This is why we need a park at Ponto
The Ponto open space is the last significant coastal land in Southwest Carlsbad that remains undeveloped, and it presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a much-needed public park. The City of Carlsbad’s own records confirm that there is a park deficit in South Carlsbad, and yet, to this day, no city park has been planned for the area. The city’s Growth Management Plan requires that parks be developed in proportion to population growth, yet South Carlsbad continues to be underserved. While North Carlsbad has 10 coastal parks spanning 37 acres, South Carlsbad has zero. With no designated recreational space for local families, visitors, and outdoor enthusiasts, the Ponto open space is the logical and necessary location for a new park.
A Coastal Park for the People
Carlsbad’s beautiful coastline should be accessible to all—not just for developers to turn into high-density housing. The California Coastal Act prioritizes public parks and coastal recreation, and the California Coastal Commission has repeatedly instructed the City of Carlsbad to consider a public park at Ponto. The demand for outdoor recreation space is higher than ever, and a well-designed coastal park would provide open green space for residents and visitors alike. A Ponto Park would allow children to play, families to gather, and the public to enjoy the natural beauty of the coastline—something that is disappearing far too quickly in Southern California.
Addressing a Growing Park Deficit
According to the City of Carlsbad’s 2015 Park Master Plan, the Ponto area is an “unserved” park location that should be prioritized for future parks. Additionally, Carlsbad has one of the worst park access scores among all Southern California coastal cities. Compared to neighboring cities like Encinitas and Oceanside, which require 5 acres of park per 1,000 residents, Carlsbad only provides 3 acres per 1,000 residents—well below national standards. By not dedicating land for parks now, Carlsbad will continue to lose free parkland and millions in potential park funding as development increases. The Ponto open space is the only viable coastal land left to correct this deficit.
A Park is the Best Use of the Ponto Open Space
Ponto is one of the last large undeveloped coastal open spaces in all of North County. This land is not just valuable—it is irreplaceable. With sea level rise already threatening to reduce Carlsbad’s coastal recreation areas, it is essential that we act now to preserve open space before it is lost forever. A Ponto Park would provide the only coastal public green space in South Carlsbad, ensuring future generations have a place to enjoy nature and outdoor recreation. The city has the opportunity to create something meaningful that benefits the entire community, not just developers. The people of Carlsbad deserve better—Ponto should be developed the right way, with a public park that serves all.