Park nearly done

A $5 million renovation at Heisler Park in Laguna Beach is nearing completion.

The Laguna Beach City Council will rededicate Heisler Park after the extensive renovations July 1 with a ribbon cutting ceremony at noon. The ceremony will be at Picnic Beach. A free hot dog lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., while supplies last.

The renovation, which started after Labor Day, focused on areas around Rockpile and Picnic Beaches, where restrooms have been replaced, pathways reconfigured, and overlook areas added for ocean viewing, according to Assistant City Manager John Pietig.

Efforts to improve water quality include the installation of bioswales to treat runoff in order to protect the Heisler Park Marine Reserve.

At Rockpile Beach, a new set of stairs is being constructed.

The improvements were funded through $1.8 million in grants from the State Water Resources Board and the County of Orange.

The grand funds were augmented with $3.2 million in city funds, bringing the total cost to $5 million.

The California Coastal Conservancy also contributed more than $200,00 for design costs.

The city is still seeking grant funds to renovate the areas around Monument Point, Diver’s Cove and south of the gazebo.

— Cindy Frazier