Learn about current park closures and updates.
Learn about current park closures and updates.
Construction is anticipated to begin in Fall 2026 and be completed by Winter 2027. The west basin will be temporarily drained so crews can regrade the lakebed, create improved habitat for native aquatic species, and enhance long‑term water quality. Around the lake, new restoration areas will be planted with native vegetation to support wildlife and enrich the natural beauty of the park.
Visitors will enjoy new and improved trails, better access for walking and birdwatching, a fishing pier, picnic areas, bird blinds, and a new bridge connecting to the historic boathouse. When complete, Lindo Lake will be healthier, more vibrant, and better prepared to support the birds, fish, and wildlife that depend on it—while providing more opportunities for people to enjoy nature and connect with this historic community landmark.
What is the timeline for this project?
Construction is expected to begin in late summer or early fall of 2026 and continue through 2027, with completion anticipated by the end of the year.
How can I stay informed about the project?
To join the project update distribution list, please contact Park Project Manager Michael Espiritu at michaeljohn.espiritu@sdcounty.ca.gov or 619‑913‑8488. The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) team will continue to work with the Lindo Lake Subcommittee, the Lakeside Community Planning Group, and other local organizations to share information with residents. Updates will also be posted on the County Parks website and social media channels.
How is this project being funded?
The project is funded through the County General Fund and a grant from the San Diego River Conservancy.
What new amenities will be available at Lindo Lake County Park once construction is completed?
New amenities will include a fishing pier, two bird‑watching stations, picnic areas, and a new bridge to the historic boathouse.
Will boating be allowed on the lake?
No. Boating is not permitted on Lindo Lake. The east and west basin boat ramps are for maintenance and emergency use only.
Will fishing be allowed in both the east and west basins during construction?
Designated fishing locations in the east basin will remain open and unimpacted throughout construction. Fishing in the west basin will not be allowed during construction but will resume in designated areas once restoration is complete and fish populations have reestablished.
Will fishing be allowed in the lake after construction is complete?
Yes. Fishing will continue in designated areas of the east basin and will be allowed in designated areas of the west basin once restoration is finished and the fish population is established.
How will the construction impact existing park amenities?
Construction will affect pedestrian circulation around the west basin, including access to surrounding footpaths. Wayfinding maps will guide visitors to alternative routes. The peninsula park road and roadside parking will be closed to private vehicles. The park will remain open, but the boathouse island will be closed. The outdoor exercise area, pickleball courts, and skate park will remain open. Temporary parking impacts will be posted as needed.
Will existing trees be removed during construction?
The project aims to preserve as many native and healthy trees as possible. Ninety‑two trees will be protected, five relocated, and forty‑eight removed. One hundred sixty‑five new trees will be planted. Biological monitoring will ensure protection during and after construction.
Will the existing boathouse be preserved?
Yes. The historic boathouse will remain in place and be
protected during construction. A new timber footbridge will connect
the island to the Community Center plaza.
Will boating be allowed in the east and west basins when construction is complete?
No boating is allowed at both east and west basins. The two new boat ramps are exclusively for maintenance and emergency purposes only and are not accessible for public use.
Will the project comply with the California Environmental Quality Act?
Yes, the project complies with the California Environmental Quality Act. The Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was certified originally on May 27, 1976. Supplemental Environmental Impact Reports were certified on February 28, 1984, and May 1, 2019, to incorporate minor changes and updates to the previously certified EIR, ensuring consistency with updated environmental regulations and project modifications.
Will the project include construction monitoring?
Yes. All required biological and cultural monitoring will take place throughout the project.
What will happen to the existing fish, turtles, and other aquatic life in the West Basin?
In coordination with CDFW and the Project Biologist, native aquatic species found in the west basin will be relocated to the east basin. All invasive fish such as carp and catfish will be removed and disposed of through approved methods. After construction, native Sacramento Perch population will be introduced to the west basin.
Have you studied the potential traffic impact of the construction?
Yes. Contractors must submit a Traffic Control Plan to ensure safe movement of vehicles and pedestrians while maintaining efficient traffic flow. This plan outlines how traffic will be managed during construction to minimize disruptions and ensure safety for both workers and the public.
Why is the lake being renovated? What problems is the project intended to solve?
Historically, Lindo Lake was fed by Quail Creek. After an upstream dam was built in the 1960s, the lake lost its steady source of fresh water and became dependent on stormwater and runoff, resulting in declining water quality. Many residents support revitalization, and the County is continuing a two‑phase restoration effort to restore habitat and improve recreational opportunities.
How will the project improve water quality? Will the project reduce algae blooms or unpleasant odors?
A new sediment basin in the west basin will capture stormwater from Quail Creek, allowing sediment to settle before water flows into the lake. Regular maintenance will remove accumulated silt. Combined with an existing system in the east basin, both basins will work together to improve lake‑wide water quality.
Will construction occur on weekends, evenings, and holidays?
No. Construction hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Work is not permitted on weekends or holidays.
What happens if there are delays?
Weather delays are permitted only if they exceed 17 days per calendar year or if conditions are deemed unsafe. The contractor must submit proper notices for time extensions.
How will noise, dust, and traffic impacts be minimized?
Contractors must comply with all noise and air quality regulations and use required dust‑control measures. Paved haul routes will be swept daily. A Traffic Control Plan will ensure safe and efficient movement around the project area.
Will there be improvements to trails or recreational amenities?
Yes. Trails will be upgraded for accessibility and safety. The historic boathouse will be preserved, with improved landscaping and a new connecting footbridge. New amenities include a fishing pier, two bird‑watching stations, and three picnic areas featuring open lawns, seating, shade, and fishing platforms.
Will accessibility be improved?
Yes. All footpaths and bridges in the west basin improvements project will be accessible for people of all abilities. New picnic areas will feature accessible tables.
Will the lake be drained?
Yes. The west basin will be drained through permitted discharge to the municipal sewer. The lakebed will then be excavated to a maximum depth of 10 feet to increase capacity.
Where will the water go during construction?
Groundwater wells supplying the west basin will be turned off. Basin water will be drained through the municipal sewer under permit. Stormwater from Quail Creek, the east basin, and storm drains will be diverted to a temporary retention basin for sediment settling before discharge. BMPs will be in place throughout construction.
How will flooding risks be addressed?
During major storms, groundwater pumps will be off, and stormwater will be diverted into a temporary retention basin. The east basin’s level will be managed through a pumping and diversion system.
How will water levels be managed after construction?
Culverts will be opened to allow flow between basins. Wells
will supply additional groundwater during dry periods and be turned
off during storms. Excess water will naturally discharge to the outfall.
How much will the project cost?
Total funding is $21.5 million: $19.5 million from Capital funds and $2 million from an SDRC grant.
Who is paying for the restoration?
Yes. A portion of project funding comes from the County of San Diego, which uses taxpayer-supported General Fund allocations for capital improvements like this one. Funding also includes a grant from the San Diego River Conservancy (SDRC), which does not come from local County tax revenue. These combined funds ensure the restoration benefits the community while leveraging outside financial support.
How will nearby residents be affected?
Residents, businesses, and institutions may experience temporary increases in noise, dust, and traffic. All work will comply with Federal, State, and local regulations. Information will be shared through doorknob notices, the website, signage, and community outreach.
Will mosquito activity increase?
No. Because the west basin will be drained, mosquito activity is not expected to increase. The contractor must prevent standing water, and Lindo Lake is monitored under the County’s Vector Control Program.
How will contaminated sediments be handled?
Excavated materials will be tested by certified laboratories. If hazardous materials are found, they will be managed under CERS and regulated by the County Hazardous Materials Division.
How will the lake be maintained after restoration? And how often? What steps will prevent the lake from returning to its current condition?
The Lindo Lake County Park Operations team is responsible for the day-to-day management and maintenance of the lake. This includes the groundwater wells, aeration systems, sediment basins, aquatic life, and water quality. The addition of the sediment basins helps capture a significant amount of sediment inflow, thus lessening silt buildup in the lake. The regular removal of silt from these basins will help maintain their optimal performance. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) provides support by testing water quality and by monitoring the fish populations in the lake. A common issue with lakes in California is algae growth. The operations team in partnership with CDFW performs best management practices to control algae blooms to acceptable levels. CDFW also helps the County stock the lake with Sacramento Perch, in removing invasive fish species, and in managing fishing activities. The restoration of the lake also involves the planting and establishment of marsh and riparian landscape ecosystems along the shoreline. In cooperation with the County Biologist, the operations department will maintain these landscapes to meet the permit requirements from different State agencies. Together, these efforts will help Lindo Lake be healthier and better able to support the birds, fish, and other wildlife that depend on it.
How will extreme weather events be managed?
Wells supplement the lake during dry periods. During major storms, wells are shut off, and overflow exits through the outfall to maintain safe water levels.
Why is the project being prioritized over other community needs?
Lindo Lake is the only natural lake in San Diego County, and its ecological health has been declining for decades due to sediment buildup, reduced water circulation, and invasive species. The project addresses long‑standing community requests, public safety considerations, and environmental concerns. It also supports wildlife habitat, improves water quality, and enhances recreational amenities for thousands of annual visitors. Capital improvement funds used for this project cannot be redirected to non-capital needs such as staffing, social services, or programming.
What accountability measures are in place if the project exceeds budget or schedule?
County capital projects follow strict oversight procedures. The project team monitors construction progress, expenses, and compliance with contract requirements. Any potential change in schedule or cost must be reviewed and approved through formal processes, including County contracting and financial controls. Contractors are held accountable for delays or deviations unless they are caused by conditions outside their control, such as severe weather or regulatory requirements.
How will fish and wildlife populations be tracked?
The County will continue coordinating with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and County biologists to monitor species populations before, during, and after construction. This includes tracking the health and distribution of native fish (such as Sacramento Perch), monitoring bird activity, evaluating habitat restoration areas, and ensuring invasive species remain controlled. Monitoring data supports ongoing management decisions to maintain a healthy ecosystem.
What if I have an existing reservation in the park or Community Center?
Most park reservations and Community Center activities will continue as scheduled. However, areas directly affected by construction—such as the boathouse island, peninsula road, or certain trail segments—may be temporarily unavailable. If your reservation is impacted, staff will contact you in advance to discuss options such as relocating your event, selecting an alternative date, or receiving a refund. For questions about future reservations, call the Lakeside Community Center or check availability on the County Parks website.
