Memorial Park Redevelopment and Expansion Project

The Memorial Park Redevelopment and Expansion Project, solicitation number 2025021055, is a phased initiative by the City of Santa Monica to expand the existing 10.3-acre Memorial Park by incorporating the 2.9-acre former Fisher Lumber site, resulting in a total 13.2-acre recreational area. The project focuses on modernizing public facilities and improving accessibility through the development of two synthetic turf combo fields, three natural grass youth fields, four rooftop tennis and pickleball courts, a new community hub building, and a new community recreation center. Additional improvements include a universally accessible playground, a renovated skate park, and a new covered parking lot with a passenger loading zone. The project is governed by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and includes comprehensive environmental reviews, such as a Final Environmental Impact Report dated January 2026. Key compliance requirements include adherence to CA AB-652 and AB-1817 regarding PFAS concentrations and the implementation of Native American monitoring during all ground disturbances. Construction is scheduled in multiple phases starting June 1, 2026, with demolition and grading activities extending through 2029. While architectural assessments concluded that the sites do not meet historical resource designation criteria, the project requires strict protocols for the discovery of human remains and the protection of the Santa Monica Air Line Segment of the Southern Pacific Railroad.