Costa Mesa Approves New Community Center Design
The city is planning a 2,100-square-foot facility to restore essential family services near the expanded Shalimar Park.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Home Renovation
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Costa Mesa has finalized a $2.5 million renovation of Ketchum-Libolt Park and approved a conceptual design for a 2,100-square-foot community center near Shalimar Park. These improvements aim to restore enrichment services for families in the neighborhood.
Why it matters
The development directly replaces lost neighborhood resources after a local nonprofit ceased operations in 2024. Residents now have a path toward new programmable family space following the city's $1.725 million purchase of a residential fourplex.
The city recently approved the conceptual design for a 2,100-square-foot community center following the $2.5 million renovation of Ketchum-Libolt Park. While $500,000 has been allocated for initial design work, the $2 million required for construction remains unfunded.
The players
Costa Mesa City Council
The local governing body responsible for municipal infrastructure, zoning, and neighborhood park development.
Dave Min
The state official who secured a total of $10 million in funding allocations for local park projects.
The details
The project involves expanding Shalimar Park, a process that required the city to purchase and demolish a fourplex at 778 Shalimar Drive. City officials worked with neighbors to select new playground equipment, prioritizing space for families who previously relied on nonprofit programs. The community center design creates a dedicated venue for local enrichment services that were lost when the prior provider exited the area in 2024.
Timeline
1987: Helicopter crash led to the naming of Ketchum-Libolt Park.
2024: Local nonprofit organization ceased its programming.
2025: Costa Mesa purchased the fourplex on Shalimar Drive for $1.725 million.
October 6, 2026: City Council approved the community center conceptual design.
The Home Front
This project continues the pattern of urban development established by the city's 2022 state funding earmarks for park plans. It reflects a broader local shift toward reclaiming residential properties to expand public utility space in under-resourced neighborhoods.
Families living near Shalimar Park should monitor city council agendas for upcoming budget hearings regarding the $2 million construction phase. Residents can contact the parks department to review finalized site designs and stay informed on the expected park reopening early next year.
The takeaway
The city is prioritizing new community infrastructure to replace lost local services. Families should watch for future city council updates regarding the funding status of the planned community center.
Further reading
Find more updates on Home Renovation projects affecting local neighborhoods.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Los Angeles Times.
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