One of the first steps in the Robertson Ranch Park planning process was to gather input from the community about their ideas and priorities for the new park. This information was then considered, along with feedback from the recently updated Parks & Recreation Department Master Plan, potential costs and funding sources, site conditions and other nearby park amenities, to develop conceptual designs.
The conceptual design identifies a park’s general uses, features and amenities, along with what will be located where. The community reviewed three distinct conceptual designs, and based on the input received, one conceptual design was further refined by the project team.
"Uniquely Carlsbad”
The rolling hills and agrarian design themes proposed in the draft design concepts resonated with the community as one way to help the park reflect what is “uniquely” Carlsbad. The recommended master plan takes inspiration from the surrounding landscapes and includes elements honoring rolling hills and the area’s agricultural roots.
Public art will provide another opportunity to make the park unique to Carlsbad. The community will have an opportunity to give input on the public art for the park. That process will start once the overall plan for the park is finalized.
Multipurpose sports field
Feedback indicated a desire for flexible sports facilities, resulting in a multipurpose field that accommodates various sports. Other input suggested spectator space and amenities for sports games, which led to the inclusion of bleachers, terraced seating, a scorekeeper’s booth, dugouts and a backstop. The proposed field orientation also responds to community feedback to address lighting conditions during typical afternoon and evening use hours. The large rectangular field is oriented north-south, and the baseball/softball diamond has a northeast orientation.
Pickleball courts
Six pickleball courts are strategically located to minimize noise for nearby homes and sensitive wildlife areas. The courts also include spectator space in an adjoining plaza area where players can connect and wait in a comfortable common space.
Some community members requested many courts to accommodate the sport’s popularity, while others suggested fewer courts due to noise concerns or doubts about its lasting appeal. Recent City Council approval to construct eight new pickleball courts at existing city parks (four each at Stagecoach Community Park and Calavera Hills Community Park) is expected to help address demand for the sport.
Playground
Feedback emphasized the importance of a playground that offers more than just traditional play equipment, leading to the inclusion of nature-based and “discovery” play elements to foster connections with the natural environment.
Running/walking track
Community interest led to the inclusion of a rubberized track, providing a comfortable surface for walking, jogging and running. Interest in the ability to use the track near family and friends participating in activities on the sports field led to the proposed 1/3-mile track configuration around the field.
Paths connecting to nature
Feedback emphasizing the need for connection to nature resulted in trails that link to the larger trail network, encouraging exploration and outdoor exercise. A decomposed granite path also provides additional opportunities to connect to nature and access a vantage point overlooking the adjacent open preserve area.
Shaded picnic areas and grass areas
The desire for versatile, comfortable gathering spaces led to shaded picnic areas and grassy areas for leisure activities and community events.
Parking lot
Community input highlighted the necessity of ample parking and access to various park amenities, leading to the design of a parking lot that accommodates visitors while being mindful of traffic flow and safety. An arched parking lot is located along the eastern edge of the site, adjacent to existing roads. The proposed configuration considered community preference for the arched parking lot design that provided the best access to all park areas.
Park entrances
Early requests for a second park entrance to provide access from different directions and enhance connectivity with the surrounding area resulted in the addition of a right-in, right-out entrance from Cannon Road. This secondary access point was reflected in all three initial concept designs and remains in the recommended master plan. The second park entrance is proposed to help address concerns about traffic.
Restroom and concession building(s)
Suggestions to add another restroom were incorporated by proposing a second restroom and concession building near the multipurpose sports field to provide better coverage and access across the entire park.
Lighting
Lighting throughout the park responds to community feedback regarding safety and the need for well-lit areas. Sports field lighting will be strategically positioned (shielded) to focus on the sports field and away from homes and sensitive habitat areas.
Stormwater treatment areas
The stormwater treatment areas are inspired by the desire for sustainability features and incorporating natural aesthetics. A bridge over one treatment area ties into the park’s natural elements, supporting interaction with nature. Existing low points and storm drain infrastructure offered logical locations for these elements.
Community garden
Community interest in gardening and sustainability prompted the inclusion of a community garden where residents can grow produce and flowers.
Half-court basketball
Requests for more casual, accessible sports options resulted in the addition of a half-court basketball area for pickup games and practice.
Fitness stations
The community’s focus on health and wellness influenced the inclusion of outdoor fitness stations, providing equipment for strength and cardio workouts in a natural setting.
Splash pad
Interest in water play areas led to the inclusion of a splash pad.
Accessibility and safety
Feedback emphasized the importance of a safe and inclusive park, resulting in features like accessible pathways and well-lit areas for safety.
