5-year vision

Even though the city has grown and changed, residents agree that it still has the small-town beach community character and connectedness that made them want to live here in the first place. Diverse community members of all ages enjoy participating in the wide array of programs and events offered by the city, where they run into neighbors, meet new friends and, mostly importantly, feel welcome and included. 

Objectives

5 of 5 on track: Get the details

1. Work with the community to develop a new approach to maintain quality of life while managing growth in Carlsbad, consistent with state law.

2. Develop objective design standards for multifamily housing throughout the city.

3. Create opportunities for more affordable housing in Carlsbad by implementing the policies and programs in the 2021-2029 Housing Element.

4. Work with the San Diego Association of Governments and the North County Transit District to prioritize, determine costs, and work with state and federal representatives to seek funding for preliminary design and technical studies for lowering the railroad tracks in the Village.

5. Develop, implement and promote programs that enhance wellness, socialization, inclusion and active living.

Priority projects

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Local control of zoning for new housing

In California, all cities are being required to increase housing density. By creating a plan for how and where this new housing can go, Carlsbad will avoid something called the "Builder's Remedy." This provision of state law allows developers to build homes at any density, any height and any location in cities that do not have an approved housing plan. In 2024, the City Council approved updated zoning to remain in compliance with our plan.

Controlling where new housing is built helps protect Carlsbad's unique community character.

Creating community through parks

In 2024, the City Council approved a master plan for Carlsbad's newest park, Robertson Ranch Park. Meanwhile, Carlsbad's largest park is on track to begin construction in 2025. Veterans Memorial Park will include our first bike park, a nature inspired playground, a memorial plaza and trails. A new piece of public art for the park's highest point will be designed in 2025 with guidance from the community.

A final design for the rebuilding and renovating Carlsbad's first pool was also approved in 2024, with construction starting in 2025. When complete, Monroe Street Pool will continue to serve as an important community gathering place.

Promoting local culture and connections through art

In 2024, the city launched a new program to bring art into the community, engaging a wide variety of artists and media. 

Spring Kaleidoscope was a temporary art installation made possible by the city in partnership with the Carlsbad Village Association. 

The Carlsbad Village Association chose 10 local and regional artists, from Carlsbad, Vista, Oceanside, Escondido and San Diego, to help springtime come alive in the Village with images that evoke the change in season. Artists collaborated with over a dozen downtown businesses.

More "pop up art" experiences are in the works.

Community Development

Jeff Murphy, Community Development Director
jeff.murphy@carlsbadca.gov
442-339-2710 

Parks & Recreation

Kyle Lancaster, Parks & Recreation Director
kyle.lancaster@carlsbadca.gov
442-339-2941

Library & Cultural Arts

Suzanne Smithson, Library & Cultural Arts Director
suzanne.smithson@carlsbadca.gov
442-339-2010