The Carlsbad City Council this week received the latest annual update on its 5-Year Strategic Plan, outlining progress on major initiatives and priorities that continue to shape the city’s work.

The report highlights progress across all five strategic goals and continued work on 65 priority projects. It also helps guide upcoming budget discussions by aligning funding decisions with the City Council’s long-term priorities.

Adopted in October 2022 and inspired by the Carlsbad Community Vision, the Strategic Plan provides a clear framework for delivering results in five key areas:

• Maintain Carlsbad’s unique community character
• Prioritize the safety and well-being of the community
• Protect the environment and natural resources
• Foster a healthy economy
• Be a model for effective and efficient local government

By establishing a five-year roadmap, the City Council created a structured approach to advancing complex, multi-year projects while continuing to deliver essential city services.

Priority projects completed 2025 

Since the last annual update, several priority projects have been completed: 

• Complete design and construction of a community garden at Stagecoach Community Park 
• Complete a feasibility study to make Tyler Street in the Barrio one-way 
• Initiate the installation of new pedestrian lighting along main sidewalks in the Barrio 
• Audio-visual upgrade/replacement for the Schulman Auditorium 
• Initiate construction to repair and upgrade beach access stairs and upper sidewalk between Pine and Tamarack avenues 
• Complete construction of retaining wall, drainage and street improvements on Park Drive from Bayshore Drive to just west of Marina Drive   
• Initiate design for construction of a new public works storage facility 

The annual report offers a detailed look at work completed to date and priorities for the year ahead. Community members can also follow ongoing progress through the city’s online Strategic Plan dashboard, providing an overview of progress toward the plan’s goals.

More information
Strategic Plan annual progress report
Strategic Plan dashboard
Feb. 24 City Council meeting video
Feb. 24 City Council staff report