Escondido residents protest planned ice complex at Kit Carson Park
A proposed 3,000-seat ice arena in Escondido has drawn opposition from residents who say it would replace four heavily used softball fields at Kit Carson Park. The City Council approved an agreement in June with the Rinks Foundation to study the project, which would serve as a practice facility for the San Diego Gulls and include restaurant and retail space. Opponents argue the foundation's $4 million offer to relocate the fields is far below the $8 million to $12 million they say rebuilding them would cost.
Escondido has lacked an ice rink since Ice-Plex shut down in 2020. The Rinks Foundation, a nonprofit tied to the San Diego Gulls and Anaheim Ducks owners, wants a three-rink arena with 3,000 seats, plus dining and retail, at Kit Carson Park. It would be the Gulls' practice site.
The City Council agreed in June to study the idea through a memorandum of understanding. Opponents with Save Kit Carson Park say the plan would displace four busy softball fields. The foundation offered $4 million to relocate them, while critics cite $8 million to $12 million estimates. A council member now opposes the park location; staff are reviewing other city sites.
The dispute may shape how Escondido balances public parkland with private-backed sports facilities. Softball and baseball players could lose fields if relocation costs exceed the foundation's offer, while ice-sports fans might gain a long-sought rink. City taxpayers could face added expenses or see other parks changed. The outcome may also influence trust in local government, especially among residents who felt left out of early talks.