Port of San Diego Approves Dunes Park Playground Replacement Project
Contact: Kelley Lieberman, 619.643.0154, klieberman@portofsandiego.org
The Port of San Diego is replacing the playground equipment at Dunes Park in Imperial Beach. The Board of Port Commissioners has approved an amendment to the FY 2026 Balanced Capital Program and FY 2026 Major Maintenance Program to support the project.
In 2024, most of the playground equipment at Dunes Park was removed due to safety concerns and the equipment was deteriorating beyond its usefulness. Only a single slide remains. The new project aims to replace the playground equipment and surface material with a vibrant, engaging, and safe play environment for children.
“Dunes Park is a central hub for the city and is the first stop for many Imperial Beach and San Diego Bay visitors,” said Commissioner Dan Malcolm, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “A new and modern play area will help maintain this community treasure as a safe and inviting waterfront destination for years to come.”
In addition to a playground, Dunes Park also features fitness equipment, a basketball half court, picnic tables and lawn space. These amenities are not impacted by the playground replacement project and are expected to remain available for use throughout the project’s duration.
Dunes Park is leased to the Port of San Diego from the City of Imperial Beach. The Port and city will coordinate closely on every phase of the project including design, permitting, and construction. The total project cost is estimated to be up to $980,000 and the design and permitting phase is anticipated to begin in early 2026, with construction expected to start in summer 2027.
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The Port of San Diego serves the people of California as a specially created district, balancing multiple uses on 34 miles along San Diego Bay spanning five cities. Collecting no tax dollars, the Port manages a diverse portfolio to generate revenues that support vital public services and amenities.
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