Lompoc Rotary to Fund Ryon Park Stage Replacement

The Lompoc Rotary Club will donate $50,000 toward replacing the aging stage at Ryon Memorial Park, and Community Development Block Grant funds are expected to cover most of the $525,000 project.

The Lompoc Rotary Club has offered a $50,000 donation toward replacing the aging stage at Ryon Memorial Park, and the city council reviewed the proposal and accepted the conceptual design and new name. The club's contribution would name the platform the Lompoc Rotary Centennial Stage to mark the organization's 100 years of local service. Community Development Block Grant funds are expected to cover most of the project's $525,000 cost. City staff showed conceptual designs and said the replacement will comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and include new access features. Key details: - The Rotary Club will donate $50,000 and the stage would be named the Lompoc Rotary Centennial Stage for the life of the structure. - The total project cost is reported as $525,000, with most funding coming from Community Development Block Grant money. - The new stage design includes two ramps, two sets of stairs with hand rails, and a permanent decorative wind wall honoring Rotary and local industries. - City staff said the project will be a full replacement of the existing stage and will comply with ADA requirements. - Construction is scheduled to begin after the Lompoc Valley Flower Festival in late June and Fourth of July events, and staff estimate work could take up to 12 weeks. - The Rotary's $50,000 is a one-time donation; the club will not be responsible for ongoing maintenance or future costs, and a roof was discussed as a possible future addition if more funding becomes available. Summary: The project is intended to improve accessibility and modernize a frequently used community platform, and officials hope the new stage will support additional events in the Lompoc Valley. The council approved the conceptual design, will solicit bids to complete the work, and final approvals will be handled by city staff and Rotarians. Construction is planned to begin after local summer events and is expected to take as long as 12 weeks. The addition of a roof was noted as undetermined and would depend on future funding.