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Stanislaus Supervisors to weigh budget shift for Bonita Park playground design
Stanislaus County

Stanislaus County supervisors on Tuesday will consider a technical budget adjustment to keep the next phase of the Bonita Park and Pool improvements in Crows Landing moving forward, shifting funds to support design work for a new playground and related park amenities.

The item, listed on the March 3 consent calendar, would reallocate $100,000 within the existing $4.93 million Bonita Pool and Park Project budget. The adjustment would reduce construction appropriations and increase funding for staff labor, professional services and purchasing charges needed to complete design of the playground phase.

The county completed major renovations to Bonita Pool in September 2025, reopening the long-closed facility with upgraded restrooms, a new equipment room, improved accessibility and other site enhancements. The Board of Supervisors approved the second phase of the project in July 2025, adding a new playground, adult fitness equipment, picnic areas, benches, walking paths and other improvements funded in part by a Proposition 68 Per Capita Grant.

County staff had hoped to finish playground design while the pool was still under construction, using the same job order contractor to streamline work. But the pool project required more staff time and professional resources than anticipated, delaying design and eliminating those efficiencies. The playground phase is now under design, and a preliminary site walk with the selected contractor indicates the project can still be delivered within budget.

If approved, staff will finalize design and issue a job order authorization to a pre-approved contractor. The county will procure and install playground and fitness equipment through a specialized vendor. The playground is expected to open in summer 2026.

The budget shift requires a four-fifths vote because it involves changes to fixed asset appropriations exceeding $10,000. The adjustment does not increase the overall project cost.

The county says the improvements support board priorities to enhance community infrastructure, promote public health and expand recreational opportunities in underserved areas.