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Construction on Belmont Beach & Aquatics Center Set to Begin in Summer 2026
By Staff Writer
Published on Wed, Jan 28, 2026
The long-anticipated Belmont Beach & Aquatics Center is officially moving from vision to reality.
On Jan. 20, 2026, the Long Beach City Council, in an 8-0 vote, approved a construction contract authorizing work to begin on the new Belmont Beach & Aquatics Center, marking a major milestone for one of the City’s most talked-about waterfront projects. Construction will now move forward with Bernards Bros., Inc. as the selected contractor, bringing Long Beach one step closer to delivering a modern, inclusive aquatics destination for the community.
For more than a decade, the future of the Belmont Pool site has been shaped by community input, evolving design concepts and careful financial planning. Originally demolished in 2014 due to seismic safety concerns, the former Belmont Plaza Olympic Pool sparked years of discussion about how best to honor its legacy while meeting today’s needs. After navigating rising construction costs, coastal permitting requirements and multiple redesigns, the project has now cleared all major approvals—including the California Coastal Commission—and is ready to break ground.
Designed to serve swimmers of all ages and abilities, the Belmont Beach & Aquatics Center will feature a 50-meter outdoor competition pool with a movable bulkhead to support lap swimming, training and competitive events. A separate recreational and instructional pool will include space dedicated to swim lessons and water play. Additional amenities will include shaded spectator seating, bleachers, locker rooms, showers, family changing areas and public restrooms.
Accessibility and equity are central to the project’s design and future operations. Universal access features will include zero-depth pool entry, pool lifts and accessible restrooms and changing areas. Once open, the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine (PRM) will prioritize equitable programming and outreach, including potential after-school and weekend swim programs, summer camps, partnerships with schools and community organizations, transportation assistance and reduced or subsidized swim lessons and admission fees. These efforts aim to ensure residents from across Long Beach can access and enjoy the facility.
The City anticipates breaking ground in summer 2026, with the Belmont Beach & Aquatics Center expected to open ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games. Once complete, the facility will serve as a welcoming, community-focused space that supports recreation, wellness and competitive aquatics—while honoring Belmont’s historic role in Long Beach’s waterfront.
More information, including final designs and project updates, is available at BelmontPool.com.
