Costa Mesa is set to unveil a new café at Lions Park, adding an inviting space for residents and visitors alike. Scheduled for completion by fall 2025, this project marks the final touch in transforming Lions Park into a vibrant community center. With funding from both the city and Orange County, this initiative aims to enhance the park’s appeal and provide a much-needed amenity for all who frequent the area.

Experience the Future of Community Engagement: A Café That Completes Lions Park's Vision

Enhancing the Social Fabric of Lions Park

The addition of a café to Lions Park promises to elevate its status as a cornerstone of Costa Mesa's social landscape. This new facility will offer a walk-up service for food and beverages, complete with outdoor seating that seamlessly integrates with the park’s existing amenities. The café's strategic location between the Donald Dungan Library and the Norma Hertzog Community Center underscores its role in fostering a cohesive environment where people can gather, relax, and enjoy quality time together.City officials have long envisioned Lions Park as more than just a recreational space. Assistant City Manager Cecilia Gallardo-Daly emphasized that the café would be the final piece in realizing this vision. By complementing the event lawn, library, community center, and aquatics center, the café will create a comprehensive experience that caters to diverse interests and activities. Residents and visitors will find themselves drawn to this hub of activity, where they can participate in events, unwind with a cup of coffee, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere.

A Long-Awaited Project Comes to Fruition

The journey to bring the café to Lions Park has not been without challenges. Initially planned as part of the broader Library Project, financial constraints forced the city to defer the construction until now. Public Works Director Raja Sethuraman explained that while the café was initially intended to be included in the development of the library and community center, budget limitations necessitated a delay.Mayor John Stephens reflected on the bittersweet history of the project. He expressed disappointment when the café had to be excluded from the original plans but remained optimistic about its eventual realization. "Great things are worth waiting for," Stephens remarked during the groundbreaking ceremony. His words resonated with the community, acknowledging the patience and perseverance required to see this vision through.Despite the delays, the enthusiasm surrounding the café remains unwavering. Families continue to enjoy the playground, athletic fields, and other facilities within Lions Park. The anticipation of having a café adds an extra layer of excitement, promising a more enriched experience for everyone who visits.

Funding and Community Support Drive the Project Forward

A significant portion of the $2.3 million required for the café's construction comes from Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley's discretionary budget. Her contribution of $1.2 million has been instrumental in making this project possible. The remaining funds are being provided by the city’s general fund, demonstrating a collaborative effort to enhance public spaces.Foley highlighted the importance of ensuring that the café benefits the community directly. An agreement has been established between the county library system and the city of Costa Mesa, stipulating that 50% of the net proceeds generated by the café will go back into the library system, while the other half will support programming at Lions Park. This arrangement ensures that the café’s success translates into tangible improvements for the entire community.Furthermore, Foley envisions the café as a reflection of Costa Mesa's unique character. She expressed hope that local businesses, particularly coffee operators, would bid on operating the café. This approach would not only promote local entrepreneurship but also ensure that the café embodies the spirit of the community it serves. Foley also mentioned her interest in incorporating interactive elements like giant Jenga games, which could further enhance the park’s appeal and foster a sense of fun and camaraderie among visitors.

The Future Awaits: A Café That Completes Lions Park's Legacy

As the framework of the 1,100-square-foot building begins to take shape, the community eagerly anticipates the café's opening. Construction crews have been diligently working since September, and the project is on track to welcome patrons by fall 2025. The café represents more than just a place to grab a quick bite; it symbolizes the culmination of efforts to transform Lions Park into a multifaceted destination.With its central location and thoughtful design, the café will serve as a natural extension of the park’s existing attractions. Whether enjoying a leisurely afternoon with friends, attending a community event, or simply taking a break from a day of activities, visitors will find the café to be an integral part of their experience. As the final piece of the puzzle falls into place, Lions Park stands poised to become the heart of Costa Mesa's social life, offering endless opportunities for connection, relaxation, and enjoyment.