Buoyed by its success with the Powerhouse Restoration, the FOP next tackled the Lifeguard Headquarters and grim eyesore of a drainage ditch that deterred easy access to the beach. Thanks to the FOP’s efforts and generosity of contributors, the FOP raised one-third of the total cost required to construct the Beach Safety Center/Lifeguard Tower project, which included turning the ditch into a beckoning boardwalk that provides safe beach access from the street.
In 1964, Del Mar Chief Lifeguard Gardner Stevens built the City’s first lifeguard tower at the 17th Street beach with his own hands and the help of his friend, Del Mar Fire Chief Jim Baker. By 2008, with both the department and number of beach visitors having grown over the past 44 years, the structure was in a dangerous state of disrepair. Obviously, the facility needed some help from its friends: the Friends of the Powerhouse!
Eager to maintain the Lifeguard Service’s admirable safety record, the FOP initiated a series of fundraisers, including an annual Valentine Dance and a “Power to the Tower” summer event. In addition, the group aggressively sought grants and donations, selling hand-painted tiles as well as initiating
ongoing contribution opportunities: personalized bricks and planks for the boardwalk and naming rights within the building.
On June 27, 2012, four years after the campaign began, the Beach Safety Center/Lifeguard Tower celebrated its Grand Opening. The efforts of the Friends of the Powerhouse and the City of Del Mar earned an award.
Next to the Center the FOP created a History Wall and the BilTeague Memorial Garden. An unsafe and unsightly drainage Trench was replaced by a boardwalk to enhance the beauty of the new, safe pedestrian entrance to the beach.
Over time, the FOP has contributed several lifeguard rescue boats, beach wheel chairs for disabled beachgoers, and lifeguard safety equipment. FOP has also provided bike racks, outside sinks and other items needed for the Center to better serve the residents of Del Mar and surrounding communities.