The Laguna Beach Unified School District board has approved a comprehensive renovation plan for the Laguna Beach High School pool, allocating approximately $18.8 million for the project. This significant upgrade includes the construction of a larger competition pool and a new two-story support building, aimed at enhancing facilities for students and the community.
Scheduled to close on June 6, 2026, the existing pool will be demolished and construction is expected to start on June 15, 2026. The entire project is projected to be completed by June 2027, leaving local swim and water polo teams without an on-campus pool for about a year. The district is working to minimize disruption to student programs and community use during the renovation.
Funding and Project Details
According to the district’s press release from January 27, the board’s vote on January 8 authorized not only the construction contracts but also additional funding for construction-phase services, which could total up to $2.2 million. The package encompasses demolition, pool construction, concrete work, plumbing, electrical work, and other related improvements.
Local reports indicate that approximately $20.4 million has already been earmarked for the project, but officials caution that unforeseen contingencies could escalate costs to as much as $25 million. The funding strategy includes an $11 million general-fund transfer for the current fiscal year, alongside a $4 million transfer for fiscal year 2026-27 and about $5.4 million from capital reserves. District leaders have committed to exploring additional funding sources, including property tax revenues and matching funds from Proposition 2.
Community Response and Future Steps
The approved design features a new 45-meter, 16-lane competition pool, complemented by a pool deck, concrete bleachers, and public restrooms. A 6,692-square-foot two-story building will house locker and shower areas, along with equipment storage. Board President Sheri Morgan described the project as a “long-term investment” that will modernize facilities that have been in service for decades.
The decision to move forward with the renovation has garnered strong support from parents, coaches, and athletes. Many voiced concerns during public testimony about the current pool’s deteriorating condition, citing issues such as a failed heating system and inadequate lane availability that has hindered the school’s ability to host important matches, including CIF Southern Section playoffs.
Demolition and equipment removal are set to commence immediately after the summer break. The district is committed to maintaining pedestrian access around the campus throughout the construction period while continuing to refine the project’s budget and schedule. Additionally, efforts will be made to coordinate access to nearby school pools, ensuring that Laguna Beach High teams can continue their practices and competitions during the construction phase.
As the Laguna Beach community anticipates this major upgrade, the district’s efforts reflect a commitment to enhancing athletic facilities for both students and residents alike.
