Projects

From toddlers to seniors, from passive to active park- and beach-goers, and for people of all ability levels: promoting enjoyable, safe, and accessible recreational facilities and activities has been one of the unwavering goals of the Friends of the Powerhouse’s efforts from its inception in 1988.

Through community fundraisers, donations, grants, and other activities, Friends of the Powerhouse (FOP) has raised more than $3.2 million for the benefit of the City of Del Mar.

2025: Powerhouse Upper Deck Trellis Replacement

In late 2024 the City asked FOP to consider granting funds to cover the costs for replacement of the trellis on the upper deck of the Powerhouse building. Being well aware of deterioration caused by beach salt, sun, and wind to buildings on the coast FOP checked our finances and readily agreed to fund the project. The trellis was done on time and on budget and looks terrific! Maintenance isn’t sexy, however it is vitally important.

2024: Tot Lot Renovation is Complete!

Our beloved Tot Lot park renovation is now complete, and it’s more magical than ever. The giggles, laughter, and joy of children can once again be heard echoing through the park. This project, which started as a dream, has turned into a remarkable reality thanks to the unwavering dedication and support of the community.

Opportunities still exist to purchase commemorative red bricks to be placed on the Powerhouse stage, and at a later date on the low Tot Lot wall. Commemorative grey planks along the sides of the boardwalk entrance to the Beach Safety Center are also available. Please see our Buy a Brick or Plank tab for more information. 

2024: Tot Lot Wins Project of the Year Award

Last year’s Powerhouse Park Tot Lot Renovation Project received a Project of the Year Award in the parks category from the local chapter of the American Public Works Association.

The awards promote excellence by recognizing the partnerships among the managing agency, consultants, architects, and engineers.

For the Tot Lot in Del Mar, in addition to the professional teams, the Parks and Recreation Committee provided valuable feedback on the designs and the Friends of the Powerhouse played an important role in fundraising.

On July 13, City officials attended an award ceremony to accept a plaque recognizing the achievement.

Source: Del Mar Weekly news article, issue no. 256, May 10, 2024

2023 and 2024: Penguin Plunge Commemorative Beach Towel Fundraisers

Buoyed by its success with the Powerhouse Restoration, FOP next tackled the Lifeguard Headquarters and grim eyesore of a drainage ditch that deterred easy access to the beach. Thanks to FOP’s efforts and generosity of contributors, 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, Gardner Stevens, Del Mar Chief Lifeguard, built the city’s first lifeguard tower at the 17th Street Beach with his own hands and the help of his friend, Jim Baker, Del Mar Fire Chief. 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: Friends of the Powerhouse!

Eager to maintain the lifeguard service’s admirable safety record, FOP initiated a series of fundraisers. In addition, the group aggressively sought grants and donations, selling hand-painted tiles, as well as initiating ongoing contribution opportunities such as 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 Friends of the Powerhouse and the City of Del Mar earned an award.

Next to the Center, FOP created a history wall and the Bill Teague 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. Opportunities still exist to support improvements and activities of Friends of the Powerhouse via purchase of a commemorative plank along the side of the boardwalk entrance to the beach. Please see our Buy a Brick or Plank tab for further information.

Over time, FOP has contributed several lifeguard rescue boats, beach wheelchairs 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.

FOP has also made enhancements to Seagrove Park including:

• • • Benches
    • Outdoor shower and drinking fountains
    • Landscaping
    • Bike racks
    • Train wall to educate and safety barrier for railroad tracks

The energy and commitment of what was then called the Powerhouse Restoration Committee were emblematic of successful efforts to come. The Committee, which as it grew over the years would include various City Council members, was spearheaded by longtime Del Mar resident Barbara Harper, founding President . A consensus builder, Barbara gathered together disparate members of the community who united behind the effort to enhance Del Mar’s exceptional quality of life.

In just two years, the group raised sufficient funds to support the detailed restoration of the old powerhouse into the Powerhouse Community Center at 1658 Coast Boulevard. Many people came together to celebrate a Grand Opening on December 4, 1999.

Since then, FOP has raised funds to support what quickly became recognized as a civic treasure. Continued FOP monetary support has ensured upkeep of the Powerhouse Community Center and surrounding public areas. Maintenance and enhancements have helped attract increased City facility rentals for a multitude of uses, including senior activities, weddings and other special events, gatherings and more. Rental proceeds go to City coffers.