Grand Opening: Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard Headquarters
“Our program is considered one of the finest, not just in California, but the entire United States and world. And now it has a suitable building to call home. It’s an awesome asset to our community.”
On June 12, the City of Newport Beach and Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard (NBJG) Foundation hosted a grand opening to celebrate the new Junior Lifeguard Headquarters.
The event started with Chief Brian O’Rourke’s simple question: “Newport Beach, how are you doing today?”
To which the crowd cheered: “Super epic!”
This NBJG cheer was more than fitting for the exciting day, where community members gathered at Balboa Pier to see the ribbon cut on the new permanent headquarters.
Replacing the modular building used by the Junior Lifeguards prior, this new multi-functional space will house the program during the summer and serve as a community event space in the off-season.
The facility includes administrative and event space, expanded storage, a restroom area, and a locker room for lifeguard staff. The exterior finishes of the facility are a combination of concrete, acrylic panel, and tile. The multimedia exterior creates visual interest while tying into the aesthetic of the beach environment.
“This building represents a lot more than concrete and the decorations on the outside,” said Mayor of Newport Beach, Will O’Neil. “It is now a home to one of the best programs in the entire state of California, and that is a big deal. Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard program has taught tens and of thousands of young people not just water safety, although that is incredibly important, but discipline and hard work as well.”
Reenie Boyer, founder of the Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard program, shared her memories of the program which began with just three attendees in 1984. The program now supports over 1,600 participants and 60 instructors each year. Fittingly, this year also marks the 101st anniversary of Newport Beach Lifeguards and the 40th anniversary of Junior Guards.
“In my wildest dreams I didn’t think this Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard building would become a reality,” Reenie Boyer said. “Our program is considered one of the finest, not just in California, but the entire United States and world. And now it has a suitable building to call home. It’s an awesome asset to our community.”
The grand opening concluded with a tour of the facility, where community members got to experience the space inside and out.
“Seeing people using and appreciating the new Junior Lifeguard building was a reminder of how design can impact a community,” said COAR Designer Morgan Rauh. “It was surreal to see people enjoying a space we've been putting so much work into over the last few years.”
Programming for NBJG will begin shortly on June 18, through August 1. We are excited to see this facility house its first of many summer programs.
“I really think you will remember this evening and this dedication very fondly,” Boyer said. “I believe it will be up there with passing your first swim test, jumping off the pier, or finishing the monster mile.”
From teaching the youth of the community water safety and discipline to friendship, camaraderie, and physical fitness, this program is a cornerstone in the Newport Beach community.
“This building is the start of a new chapter for the Junior Lifeguard program,” said President and Foundation Chair of theNewport Beach Junior Lifeguard Foundation, Graham Harvey. “Our hope is that this building will help develop the next generation of Newport Beach Lifeguards.”