The City of Carpinteria has secured $4.4 million in one-time state capital improvement funds to support critical infrastructure, alongside $496,000 in local community contributions.
The $4.4 million one-time state funding package, championed by State Senator Monique Limón and signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, delivers $3.3 million for essential safety and operational repairs at the Carpinteria Community Pool, as well as $1.1 million for accessibility and facility improvements at the Carpinteria Community Library.
“The Carpinteria Community Pool and Carpinteria Community Library serve as community hubs for education, recreation, social connection, and lifelong health. Ensuring our local infrastructure remains safe and functional is a top priority,” said Senate pro Tempore Monique Limón. “I was proud to secure a $4.4 million state investment to support the City of Carpinteria’s efforts in preserving these vital resources for residents and future generations.”
Concurrently, local residents and community partners have raised $496,000 toward pool improvements through the Keep Carp Swimming campaign, administered by the Santa Barbara Foundation.
The City extends its heartfelt gratitude to every resident, family, and organization whose generous contributions laid the groundwork for this effort. This community-led support was instrumental in building the momentum needed to secure broader investment.
“This milestone is the definition of a true team effort, and we are deeply grateful for everyone who helped bring us to this moment,” said City of Carpinteria Mayor Natalia Alarcon. “From the local residents and community leaders whose contributions built critical momentum, to Senator Monique Limón and Governor Gavin Newsom’s support for Carpinteria on the state level, this achievement belongs to all of us.”
Next Phase: Ongoing Fundraising for Pool Facility Enhancements
With foundational infrastructure now fully funded, the City is pivoting to the next phase of the Keep Carp Swimming campaign. The City aims to raise an additional $500,000 for enhancements that protect the new infrastructure, lower operating costs, and extend the facility’s useful life, including:
- Energy-efficient LED lighting and heavy-duty thermal pool covers to reduce energy and heating costs.
- New lane lines and a commercial-grade pool vacuum to support daily operations and ongoing maintenance.
- Durable interior flooring, fresh paint, and new entry signage to protect surfaces and improve the visitor experience.
- Additional CPR and safety equipment to expand the pool’s emergency response capacity.
Any additional surplus funds raised during this phase will seed a dedicated capital replacement fund with the Santa Barbara Foundation for long-term facility maintenance.
“Securing state funding for our core mechanical and safety systems gives us the essential foundation we needed, and we are deeply grateful for that support,” said Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Director Jeanette Gant. “As we look ahead, continued donations through KeepCarpSwimming.org will help us fund key facility updates, like new lane lines, improved lighting, and upgraded flooring, that enhance the day-to-day experience for our swimmers and help ensure our pool remains welcoming and well-maintained for years to come.”
For project updates and information on how to make tax-deductible donation visit KeepCarpSwimming.org.
About the Carpinteria Community Pool Project:
The Carpinteria Community Pool Project is a City of Carpinteria capital improvement fundraising initiative focused on completing critical improvements to preserve and maintain the community pool. Through community support, philanthropic investment, and grant funding, the project aims to ensure the pool remains a safe, accessible, and sustainable resource for residents and visitors.
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