Barnes Park Aquatic Center Design

Debate and decision‑making around the design options for a new aquatic center at Barnes Park.

Meeting history

1. June 9, 2026
   Monterey Park | State of the City Meeting — June 9, 202695%

   During the Infrastructure Updates and Capital Improvement Projects segment, council staff reviewed progress on the Barnes Park Aquatic Center, noting its $9 million cost and a $6 million grant plus $3 million city match. The presentation emphasized that the project remains in design and fundraising stages, with a target of $9 million still to be secured. No motions or votes were taken on the design; the next steps involve finalizing the design and continuing fundraising efforts to secure remaining funding.

2. March 18, 2026
   City Council Meeting — March 18, 202697%

   Council moved to adopt Barnes Park Aquatic Center Option B, a cost‑effective 50‑meter pool with recreation space. The motion was moved by Councilmember Wong, seconded by Vinh T. Ngo, and passed unanimously (5‑0). During the public‑communications segment, Robert Ogawa Monroe urged support for Option B while Sharon Wu and Dawn Rock advocated an Olympic‑sized pool; the council ultimately chose Option B. Next steps include finalizing full‑design drawings, securing additional funding (Measure A grant and city budget), coordinating splash‑pad placement, and updating the public on grant timelines.

3. February 4, 2026
   City Council Meeting — February 4, 202680%

   During the presentation item, Council members reviewed a concept study for a new aquatic center at Barnes Park. The council expressed support and encouraged community survey participation, but no formal vote or decision on the design was taken. The next step is to collect public input through surveys and continue staff development of the design options.