After nearly two years of construction, the El Dorado Duck Pond is ready to reopen, and the public is invited to waddle over and celebrate.
Long Beach will host a grand reopening of the El Dorado Park West Duck Pond on Thursday, June 27. City officials such as Mayor Rex Richardson, District Four Councilmember Daryl Supernaw, along with Public Works and Parks, Recreation and Marine representatives will take part in the ceremony.
“I am excited for the El Dorado Park West Duck Pond to reopen for residents to enjoy once again just in time for summer,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement. “This project is a symbol of our commitment to preserving our city’s natural beauty and is a testament to our dedication to creating healthy, safe spaces that foster community, recreation and environmental stewardship.”
Long Beach began the $10 million rehabilitation project in September 2022 with the goal to improve water quality, restore the pond’s liner, benefit the wetlands and forebay, remove invasive species, and plant native plants.
Recreational spaces surrounding the pond will also be open for people to enjoy including a soccer field, amphitheater, playground, open green space, two parking lots and restrooms. Additional upgrades include the walking paths, a new filtration and disinfection system and conservation efforts to allow reclaimed water to service the adjacent golf course.
“The El Dorado Duck Pond is a beloved part of our community. It is a place where folks come to relax, connect with nature, and create lasting memories with family and friends,” said District Four Councilmember Daryl Supernaw in a public statement. “I am pleased to see the restoration of this beloved landmark finally complete, and I look forward to celebrating its reopening with members of our community.”
The project is supported by Long Beach Measure A, Los Angeles County Measure W grant funding from the Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District Grant, in addition to federal grant funding in partnership with Long Beach Utilities (formerly the Long Beach Water Department).
Costs for El Dorado Park improvement projects is as follows:
- El Dorado Park Artificial Turf: $2,711,644
- El Dorado Park Duck Pond: $10,107,000
- El Dorado Park Golden Grove Event Area: $500,000
- El Dorado Park Golden Grove Playground: $400,000
- El Dorado Park Parking Management and Entrance Improvements on Spring Street: $400,000
- El Dorado Park Restroom No. 40: $180,000
- El Dorado Park Restroom No. 41: $180,000
- El Dorado Park Restrooms No. 38 and 43: $360,000
- El Dorado Park Tennis Center: $266,834
- El Dorado Universal Playground: $1,100,000
More information is available on the project webpage.
The celebration will be held at noon on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at El Dorado Park West (2400 N. Studebaker Road).
