HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem No. 15.1 - Adoption of the Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth and Attraction Plan (2026-2040)Page 1 of 5
REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL
To:Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From:Jason Simpson, City Manager
Prepared by:Gina Gonzalez, Economic Development and Legislative Affairs Director
Date:January 27, 2026
Subject: Adoption of the Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth and Attraction
Plan (2026-2040)
Recommendation
Adopt the Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth and Attraction Plan (2026-2040) to
establish a long-range framework that positions Lake Elsinore as a premier destination and
innovation hub for action sports, strengthens the City’s tourism and visitor economy, activates
Lake and outdoor recreation assets, and supports workforce development and business attraction
consistent with the City’s 2040 Dream Extreme Vision Plan.
Background
Lake Elsinore is uniquely positioned to grow as a regional and national hub for action sports,
motorsports, and outdoor recreation, with foundational assets including the Rosetta Canyon
Sports Park, Diamond Stadium, Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park (Lake Elsinore Raceway),
Summerly Golf Course, Launch Pointe, Skydive Elsinore, as well as a natural terrain suitable for
a wide range of action sports activities, and proximity to major Southern California action sports
markets.
In alignment with the City’s long-term transformation vision, the Lake Elsinore Action Sports
Industry Growth & Attraction Plan (2026–2040) was developed to guide strategic investments and
partnerships that strengthen Lake Elsinore’s identity as a destination, support economic
development and innovation industries, and enhance quality of life through world-class recreation
amenities.
The Plan is structured to be cross-sectional and is intended to be integrated into key city plans
such as the General Plan, Parks and Recreation and Lake Masterplans, Comprehensive
Economic Development Strategy and Plan, Lake Management Plan, and other long-range
planning efforts.
(Subject Matter 1- 4 words only. Do Not add date or page numbering)
Page 2 of 5
Discussion
The Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan establishes a vision to position Lake Elsinore
as an international destination and hub for action sports through targeted investments, strategic
partnerships, innovation, and branding.
The Plan’s Vision Statement is:
“To establish Lake Elsinore as the Action Sports Capital of the World, and Southern California’s
premier destination and innovation hub for action sports…”
This Plan is intentionally designed as both:
1. A destination and tourism strategy, and
2. A business attraction and workforce strategy—supporting the development of a broader
“action sports ecosystem” tied to recreation, hospitality, tech/media, training, and
manufacturing.
With the inclusion of City Council Economic Development Subcommittee members, Action Sports
Stakeholders, the Chamber of Commerce, City Departments and Directors, and the Development
Stakeholders group, the Plan identifies several factors that uniquely position Lake Elsinore for
action sports industry growth and attraction, including:
•Existing motorsports assets and a strong action sports base
•Terrain and environments that support diverse sports (motocross, BMX, MTB,
wakeboarding, skateboarding, skydiving, off-roading, and more)
•Access to major action sports markets in Los Angeles and San Diego, placing as Lake
Elsinore as the hub
•Strong regional demographics and youth-driven culture supportive of action sports growth
The Plan also recommends a tie into the Dream Extreme brand, with marketing initiatives around
“Action Sports HQ” and “Southern California’s Playground” to align with the City’s 2040 Dream
Extreme Vision Plan.
Alignment with the City’s 2040 Dream Extreme Vision Plan
The City’s 2040 Dream Extreme Vision Plan calls for Lake Elsinore to continue advancing as a
bold, identity-driven community where recreation, tourism, economic opportunity, and quality of
life investments work together.
The Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan complements and advances this long-range
vision by:
(Subject Matter 1- 4 words only. Do Not add date or page numbering)
Page 3 of 5
•Strengthening the City’s identity and brand through a signature industry and lifestyle
strategy (e.g., “Action Sports HQ”).
•Advancing destination-driven economic development through events, tourism initiatives,
and visitor economy strategies like a refreshed visitor website and visitor guide.
•Supporting lake activation and outdoor recreation ecosystems, including a possible cable
wake park, lake-based clubs, and expanded fishing and water activity programming.
•Creating pathways for innovation and business attraction, including designation of land for
an Action Sports Innovation Campus and opportunities for incubator/co-working space.
•Expanding youth programming and workforce development pipelines, including
partnerships with schools, colleges, certifications, apprenticeships, and training
academies.
Through these elements, the Plan supports the Dream Extreme framework by proposing high-
impact, signature initiatives that elevate the City’s identity, activate public assets, and generate
sustainable economic opportunities.
Strategic Goals and Key Actions
The Plan is organized around five strategic goal areas that will guide actions and partnerships
through 2040:
1.Infrastructure & Facilities Expansion
Key opportunities include upgrades to the motocross park, development of a world-class
skate/BMX park, creation of mountain bike trail systems, exploration of a cable
wake park, an action sports innovation campus, and a training academy concept.
2.Events & Tourism Development
Key actions include establishing a signature Action Sports Festival, restoring/expanding
the Grand Prix tradition and back on Main Street, attracting touring events, supporting
year-round competition circuits, and establishing a Tourism Improvement District (TBID).
3.Business Incentives & Industry Attraction
Key actions include incentives for relocation/expansion, innovation funds or seed grants,
leveraging Opportunity Zone benefits, incubator/co-working opportunities, and
development of a creative district near the lake.
4.Marketing & Branding
Key actions include launching a citywide action sports marketing campaign (e.g., “Ride
Elsinore” / “Action Starts Here”), a city ambassador/influencer program, content
development, visitor tools (guide, website, apps, digital media), and an expanded Extreme
Alliance partnership strategy.
5.Youth Engagement & Workforce Development
Key actions include school partnerships, pathways with colleges/vocational programs,
internships/apprenticeships, nonprofit or foundation partnerships to expand access,
potential academy/charter concept, and certification programs in coaching, event
management, equipment design, and media.
(Subject Matter 1- 4 words only. Do Not add date or page numbering)
Page 4 of 5
To measure success, the Plan proposes performance targets by 2040, including:
•500,000+ annual action sports visitors
•15+ new action sports businesses
•+150% youth participation growth
•$100M+ annual regional economic impact
•12+ major & grassroots annual events
•Growth in globally streamed/televised events and international athlete presence
Through key partnerships with stakeholders and cross-sectional support of departments, these
metrics provide measurable outcomes that support the City’s broader Dream Extreme vision for
community identity, tourism, and economic vitality.
The Plan includes an initial implementation timeline beginning in 2026, with key first-year actions
such as:
•Updating City plans and documents to incorporate this Plan
•Forming a taskforce or subcommittee on Action Sports
•Beginning branding and social media rollout
•TBID feasibility and formation work
•Visitor website refresh and visitor guide development
•Identifying an R&D / innovation location and coordinating land use designations
Additional actions in 2027–2040 include feasibility studies, initiation of facility designs, opportunity
zone tie-ins, hosting inaugural summit/festival events, business attraction targets, and long-term
industry campus development.
Staff recommends Council adoption as the foundational step, with implementation pursued
through future Council direction, budget development, grant opportunities, public-private
partnerships, and collaboration with City departments and external stakeholders.
Fiscal Impact
While there are no direct costs associated with developing the Action Sports Industry Growth and
Attraction Plan, there will be future costs associated with achieving some of the items in the plan
assisting the city with growth in the action sports industry and lake activation ecosystems but will
have long term benefits that are both direct and indirect that results in not only revenue generation,
but job creation, action sports activation, lake activation and key ecosystems that support the
goals of the city long term.
Staff will return to City Council as appropriate with fiscal impacts, implementation plans, and
recommended funding strategies as projects move into feasibility and execution phases.
(Subject Matter 1- 4 words only. Do Not add date or page numbering)
Page 5 of 5
Attachments
Attachment 1- Lake Elsinore Sports Industry Growth and Attraction Plan (2026-2040)
District 1
Mayor
Brian Tisdale
Elected 2022
District 2
Councilmember
Steve Manos
Elected 2024
District 3
Councilmember
Tim Sheridan
Elected 2022
District 4
Councilmember
Natasha Johnson
Elected 2024
District 5
Mayor Pro Tem
Bob Magee
Elected 2024
DISTRICT BOUNDARY MAP
Lake Elsinore
Action Sports Industry
Growth & Attraction Plan
(2026–2040)
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 2
LAKE ELSINORE CITY COUNCIL
District 1
Councilmember
Brian Tisdale
Elected 2022
VISION STATEMENT
To establish Lake Elsinore as the Action Sports Capital of the World, and Southern California’s premier
destination and innovation hub for action sports, fostering community, tourism, and economic development
through strategic investments, partnerships, and branding.
WHY LAKE ELSINORE?
Lake Elsinore already has a strong action sports foundation:
•Home to Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park
(Lake Elsinore Raceway)
•Natural terrain ideal for motocross, BMX,
mountain biking, wakeboarding, water
skiing, golf, wake surfing, tubing,
skateboarding, skydiving, off-roading, and
hang gliding to name a few…
•Proximity to action sports hubs like San
Diego and Los Angeles
•Large youth population and lifestyle-driven
culture (In a 2.5 hour radius with Lake
Elsinore as the center- the city has the best
demographics in the world for action sports
enthusiasts and investments in the
industry)
Now is the time to double down and do a marketing campaign for the city as:
“Lake Elsinore: Action Sports HQ” and “Southern California’s Playground”
District 2
Councilmember
Steve Manos
Elected 2024
District 3
Mayor Pro Tem
Tim Sheridan
Elected 2022
District 4
Councilmember
Micheal Carroll
Appointed 2025
District 5
Mayor
Robert “Bob” Magee
Elected 2024
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 3
STRATEGIC GOALS
(Incorporate into city’s General Plan, Dream Extreme 2040 Plan, Comprehensive Economic Development
Strategy and Plan, and City’s Parks and Recreation Masterplan, and other key plans for cross-sectional
collaboration and development among multiple city departments, chamber and other key stakeholders)
1. Infrastructure & Facilities Expansion
Key Actions:
• Upgrade and modernize Lake Elsinore Motorcross Park: Improve safety, amenities, and track quality.
(Encourage and support investments in the final location and destination for the track).
• Develop a world-class skatepark and BMX park: Target an X-Games-level destination with event-hosting
capacity. Add to Parks and Recreation Masterplan.
• Pursue multi-use design: make each venue modular to host both community use and pro-level events
(i.e., flexible skatepark with competition overlays)
• Add a Mountain Bike Trail System in surrounding hills with gravity-fed downhill trails.
• Explore a Cable Wake Park on Lake Elsinore or at a new man-made lake (public-private partnership).
• Designate land for an Action Sports Innovation Campus for R&D, prototyping, and training, and develop
an opportunity zone for the development.
• Action Sports Training Academy: multi-sport facility with coaching, biomechanics lab, recovery center,
and film/media training rooms (to attract pros + youth).
• Wavegarden/Surf Lake or Island: to capture surf/skate crossover market.
2. Events & Tourism Development
Key Actions:
• Launch the Lake Elsinore Action Sports Festival: Include motocross, BMX, skateboarding, live music, and
a vendor village. Develop into a signature global event (like Coachella for action sports). Can tie into
concerts, film premieres, and gear expos. (City hosted)
• Bring back the Grand Prix- paying homage to the city’s history- and growing the event with other
activities and festival- eventually adding UTVs, and other opportunities to grow the event, etc- a
community revival.
• Attract touring events: X-Games qualifiers, Red Bull events, Monster Energy showcases, USASA, Off-
Road Festival- with Martelli Bros, etc.
• Support amateur competitions and youth training camps year-round.
• Create a refreshed Visit Lake Elsinore Website and annual Visitor Guide.
• Create and establish a Tourism Improvement District (TBID).
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 4
• Create a standalone Tourism Board for Lake Elsinore in part of the TBID, and convey the Visitors Guide
and Visitors Website to new standalone Bureau. Do feasibility study for the TBID and implementation.
• Partner with local hotels and tourism boards for action sports vacation packages, and actions sport
operators in Lake Elsinore and expand the Extreme Alliance 2.0 (partnerships among action sports
venues and amenities in Lake Elsinore).
• Encourage Yachting Clubs, and lake activation clubs and groups for the Lake. Partner with stakeholder
groups, such as fishing and watersport companies, and manufacturers to support and sponsor events
and fishing reports.
• Work with Recreation Department, the Alliance 2.0, and establish year-round competition circuit: winter
→ MTB downhill; spring → wake/water sports; summer → motocross; fall → skate/BMX. Creates
constant tourism flow.
• Enhance and grow our existing Fishing Derbies for Lake Elsinore. (Recreation Department)
• Action Sports added to an Lake Elsinore Film Festival / Media Awards → position as HQ for storytelling &
content creation. Create a Film Familiarization Tour, and expand to a future Film LE Festival.
• Include esports tie-in: host gaming competitions tied to motocross/BMX/Skate games, drawing younger
digital audiences. Ie Computer sports, drone sports, etc. Work with school district to create feeder clubs,
and tie into pathways at college level.
• Develop hack-a-thons- and partner with college and Chamber of Commerce on events.
• Work with various city departments and partnerships to re-establish Competition Channel→ National
Jet Boat Association.
3. Business Incentives & Industry Attraction
Key Actions:
• Offer tax incentives (Property or Fee waivers, etc) or rebates for companies in the action sports sector
relocating or expanding in Lake Elsinore (gear manufacturers, startups, training centers).
• Innovation Fund / Seed Grants: small grants or low-interest loans for startups in gear, media, or sports
tech.
• Promote Opportunity Zone benefits for new developments tied to action sports.
• Establish a city-supported incubator or co-working space focused on action sports gear, media, and
design.
• Develop a Creative District near the lake with cafes, gear shops, and small studios for action sports
entrepreneurs and media creators.
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 5
4. Marketing & Branding
Key Actions:
• Launch a branded campaign: “Ride Elsinore” or “Action Starts Here” across digital and physical media- to
tie into the Lake Elsinore: Action Sports HQ and Southern California’s Playground
• Partner with pro athletes and influencers from motocross, skate, BMX, and MTB to become City
Ambassadors.
• Develop an Extreme Ambassador Program- partnership with Visit Lake Elsinore and Recreation
/Economic Development that shares Lake Elsinore information, and “welcome chuck wagon” concept
for visitors along shoreline, the coves, summerly, motocross, etc. friendly and welcoming to Lake
Elsinore- in partnership with the Lake Elsinore Chamber of Commerce.
• Develop content with these ambassadors showcasing how Lake Elsinore is “their playground.”
• Develop a fishing report on key details of the lake, and develop a extreme sports podcast with guests,
discussing conditions and activities, events, with key guests for enthusiast alike.
• Build a compelling online presence (website + socials) showcasing action sports lifestyle, facilities, trails,
and opportunities tied to the Visitors Bureau or Visit Lake Elsinore website.
• Use drone footage and athlete content to showcase the region’s natural playground.
• Invest in immersive experiences: AR/VR content to “ride the lake” or “jump the motocross track”
virtually before visiting.
• Build mobile-first visitor app: maps of trails, event schedules, gear rentals, hotel deals or tie into Visit
Lake Elsinore once established.
• Create a Lake Elsinore Athlete Residency Program: house and promote 5–10 high-profile athletes each
year as permanent ambassadors.
• Establish the “Extreme Alliance 2.0” and develop vacation packages for the Casino, Skydive, the Lake
Elsinore Storm, Launch Pointe, Summerly Golf Course, and Pins and Pockets, to name only a few
attractions.
5. Youth Engagement & Workforce Development
Key Actions:
• Partner with local schools to create action sports clubs and programs such as rowing or crew, and other
water sports.
• Build partnerships with colleges and vocational schools for sports media, product design, and
engineering pathways.
• Offer internships and apprenticeships at gear companies, media studios, and training facilities.
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 6
•Establish a nonprofit youth foundation to provide access to sports gear and training for underserved
communities or partner with existing ones to provide access to gear an training
•Work with local chamber and school district, and charters to create lake programing for students
•Action Sports Charter School / Academy: combine academics with training (similar to IMG Academy for
traditional sports).
•Develop certifications in coaching, event management, equipment design, and media, positioning Lake
Elsinore as the training ground for future professionals.
•Create scholarship programs for underserved youth to compete nationally/internationally under the
“Lake Elsinore” banner.
•Develop process for tracking statistics for international athletes training or residing in city, utilizing
stakeholders in the city.
KEY PERFORMANCE METRICS (KPIs)
Lake Elsinore already has a strong action sports foundation:
Metric Target by 2040
Annual Visitors for Action Sports 500,000+
New Action Sports Businesses 15+
Youth Participation Growth +150%
Regional Economic Impact $100M+ annually
Social Media Reach (City Branding) 100k followers combined
Number of Annual Events 12+ major & grassroots (City and Private Events)
Events Televised/Streamed Globally 10% increase
International Athletes training or residing in
Lake Elsinore 25 or more
Workforce Development 10-20 students graduating from Action Sports related
programming from Lake Elsinore
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 7
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
•Red Bull, Monster Energy, GoPro, Vans, Fox Racing, Troy Lee Designs, Mason Motorsports, DRD
Motorsports, etc.
•Temecula Valley Entrepreneurs Exchange (TVE2)
•Diamond Stadium (crossover event hosting)
•California Parks & Recreation Society / Outdoor Access organizations
•Recreation , City of Lake Elsinore
•Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park – Lake Elsinore Raceway
•Local builders and skatepark companies (Spohn Ranch, Dreamland Skateparks, Grindline )
•Surf Tech Companies (wavegarden, etc.)
•Tech/media partners (GoPro, Meta, Youtube, ESPN)
•Esports brands (EA Sports, Activision, Twitch)
•Tourism crossover with Temecula Valley Wine County- Visit Temecula (if permitted not impacting TOT
and PBID in Lake Elsinore), Visit California, SoCal Adventure Tourism boards, etc.
•Jet Boat and Motorsports Companies and stakeholders
IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE
2026
•Update city plans and documents to incorporate the Action Sports Industry Growth and Attraction Plan
(Parks and Lake Master Plans, Economic Development Strategy and Plans, Etc.)
•Form Taskforce, or subcommittee on Action Sports
•Begin branding & social media rollout
•Create feasibility and TBID formation
•Develop Visit Lake Elsinore refreshed website and visitors guide
•Apply for grants & seek private investors
•Identify R &D Location
o Work with Community Development on land use and designations in General Plan
2027
•Conduct feasibility studies or market analysis for attraction efforts
•Kick off design of skate/BMX park
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 8
•Develop Opportunity Zone and tie into General Plan
•Host inaugural Action Sports Summit Festival with partners and in City
•Complete second major facility (e.g., skatepark or mountain bike trail system) aside from Rosetta Sports
Park
•Attract 5+ businesses to relocate
2028–2040
•Full-scale events and tourism boom
•Industry campus + R&D facilities open
•International recognition as Action Sports Destination
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 9
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Lake, water quality, water, energy, utilities, air, climate,
environmental regulations, and waste management
PUBLIC SAFETY
Law enforcement, fire and life safety, emergency communications, emergency
services, disaster preparedness, nuisance abatement, and animal control services
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Land use, annexation, housing, building standards, redevelopment,
mobile homes, sign regulations and CDBG.
THANK YOU TO THE CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE CITY STAFF AND STAKEHOLDERS FOR
YOUR COLLABORATION IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ACTION SPORTS HQ PLAN:
Lake Elsinore City Council
Jason Simpson, City Manager
Shannon Buckley, Assistant City Manager
Gina Gonzalez, Director of Economic Development and Legislative Affairs
Damaris Abraham, Community Development Director
Yu Yagai, City Engineer
Johnathan Skinner, Community Services Director
Beau Davis, Assistant Community Services Director
Adam Gufarotti, Assistant Director of Lake and Community Operations
Nancy Huynh, Principal Planner
Traci Williams, Fire Marshal
Kim Cousins, Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce/Visitors Bureau
Page 1 of 5
REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL
To:Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From:Jason Simpson, City Manager
Prepared by:Gina Gonzalez, Economic Development and Legislative Affairs Director
Date:January 27, 2026
Subject: Adoption of the Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth and Attraction
Plan (2026-2040)
Recommendation
Adopt the Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth and Attraction Plan (2026-2040) to
establish a long-range framework that positions Lake Elsinore as a premier destination and
innovation hub for action sports, strengthens the City’s tourism and visitor economy, activates
Lake and outdoor recreation assets, and supports workforce development and business attraction
consistent with the City’s 2040 Dream Extreme Vision Plan.
Background
Lake Elsinore is uniquely positioned to grow as a regional and national hub for action sports,
motorsports, and outdoor recreation, with foundational assets including the Rosetta Canyon
Sports Park, Diamond Stadium, Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park (Lake Elsinore Raceway),
Summerly Golf Course, Launch Pointe, Skydive Elsinore, as well as a natural terrain suitable for
a wide range of action sports activities, and proximity to major Southern California action sports
markets.
In alignment with the City’s long-term transformation vision, the Lake Elsinore Action Sports
Industry Growth & Attraction Plan (2026–2040) was developed to guide strategic investments and
partnerships that strengthen Lake Elsinore’s identity as a destination, support economic
development and innovation industries, and enhance quality of life through world-class recreation
amenities.
The Plan is structured to be cross-sectional and is intended to be integrated into key city plans
such as the General Plan, Parks and Recreation and Lake Masterplans, Comprehensive
Economic Development Strategy and Plan, Lake Management Plan, and other long-range
planning efforts.
(Subject Matter 1- 4 words only. Do Not add date or page numbering)
Page 2 of 5
Discussion
The Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan establishes a vision to position Lake Elsinore
as an international destination and hub for action sports through targeted investments, strategic
partnerships, innovation, and branding.
The Plan’s Vision Statement is:
“To establish Lake Elsinore as the Action Sports Capital of the World, and Southern California’s
premier destination and innovation hub for action sports…”
This Plan is intentionally designed as both:
1. A destination and tourism strategy, and
2. A business attraction and workforce strategy—supporting the development of a broader
“action sports ecosystem” tied to recreation, hospitality, tech/media, training, and
manufacturing.
With the inclusion of City Council Economic Development Subcommittee members, Action Sports
Stakeholders, the Chamber of Commerce, City Departments and Directors, and the Development
Stakeholders group, the Plan identifies several factors that uniquely position Lake Elsinore for
action sports industry growth and attraction, including:
•Existing motorsports assets and a strong action sports base
•Terrain and environments that support diverse sports (motocross, BMX, MTB,
wakeboarding, skateboarding, skydiving, off-roading, and more)
•Access to major action sports markets in Los Angeles and San Diego, placing as Lake
Elsinore as the hub
•Strong regional demographics and youth-driven culture supportive of action sports growth
The Plan also recommends a tie into the Dream Extreme brand, with marketing initiatives around
“Action Sports HQ” and “Southern California’s Playground” to align with the City’s 2040 Dream
Extreme Vision Plan.
Alignment with the City’s 2040 Dream Extreme Vision Plan
The City’s 2040 Dream Extreme Vision Plan calls for Lake Elsinore to continue advancing as a
bold, identity-driven community where recreation, tourism, economic opportunity, and quality of
life investments work together.
The Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan complements and advances this long-range
vision by:
(Subject Matter 1- 4 words only. Do Not add date or page numbering)
Page 3 of 5
•Strengthening the City’s identity and brand through a signature industry and lifestyle
strategy (e.g., “Action Sports HQ”).
•Advancing destination-driven economic development through events, tourism initiatives,
and visitor economy strategies like a refreshed visitor website and visitor guide.
•Supporting lake activation and outdoor recreation ecosystems, including a possible cable
wake park, lake-based clubs, and expanded fishing and water activity programming.
•Creating pathways for innovation and business attraction, including designation of land for
an Action Sports Innovation Campus and opportunities for incubator/co-working space.
•Expanding youth programming and workforce development pipelines, including
partnerships with schools, colleges, certifications, apprenticeships, and training
academies.
Through these elements, the Plan supports the Dream Extreme framework by proposing high-
impact, signature initiatives that elevate the City’s identity, activate public assets, and generate
sustainable economic opportunities.
Strategic Goals and Key Actions
The Plan is organized around five strategic goal areas that will guide actions and partnerships
through 2040:
1.Infrastructure & Facilities Expansion
Key opportunities include upgrades to the motocross park, development of a world-class
skate/BMX park, creation of mountain bike trail systems, exploration of a cable
wake park, an action sports innovation campus, and a training academy concept.
2.Events & Tourism Development
Key actions include establishing a signature Action Sports Festival, restoring/expanding
the Grand Prix tradition and back on Main Street, attracting touring events, supporting
year-round competition circuits, and establishing a Tourism Improvement District (TBID).
3.Business Incentives & Industry Attraction
Key actions include incentives for relocation/expansion, innovation funds or seed grants,
leveraging Opportunity Zone benefits, incubator/co-working opportunities, and
development of a creative district near the lake.
4.Marketing & Branding
Key actions include launching a citywide action sports marketing campaign (e.g., “Ride
Elsinore” / “Action Starts Here”), a city ambassador/influencer program, content
development, visitor tools (guide, website, apps, digital media), and an expanded Extreme
Alliance partnership strategy.
5.Youth Engagement & Workforce Development
Key actions include school partnerships, pathways with colleges/vocational programs,
internships/apprenticeships, nonprofit or foundation partnerships to expand access,
potential academy/charter concept, and certification programs in coaching, event
management, equipment design, and media.
(Subject Matter 1- 4 words only. Do Not add date or page numbering)
Page 4 of 5
To measure success, the Plan proposes performance targets by 2040, including:
•500,000+ annual action sports visitors
•15+ new action sports businesses
•+150% youth participation growth
•$100M+ annual regional economic impact
•12+ major & grassroots annual events
•Growth in globally streamed/televised events and international athlete presence
Through key partnerships with stakeholders and cross-sectional support of departments, these
metrics provide measurable outcomes that support the City’s broader Dream Extreme vision for
community identity, tourism, and economic vitality.
The Plan includes an initial implementation timeline beginning in 2026, with key first-year actions
such as:
•Updating City plans and documents to incorporate this Plan
•Forming a taskforce or subcommittee on Action Sports
•Beginning branding and social media rollout
•TBID feasibility and formation work
•Visitor website refresh and visitor guide development
•Identifying an R&D / innovation location and coordinating land use designations
Additional actions in 2027–2040 include feasibility studies, initiation of facility designs, opportunity
zone tie-ins, hosting inaugural summit/festival events, business attraction targets, and long-term
industry campus development.
Staff recommends Council adoption as the foundational step, with implementation pursued
through future Council direction, budget development, grant opportunities, public-private
partnerships, and collaboration with City departments and external stakeholders.
Fiscal Impact
While there are no direct costs associated with developing the Action Sports Industry Growth and
Attraction Plan, there will be future costs associated with achieving some of the items in the plan
assisting the city with growth in the action sports industry and lake activation ecosystems but will
have long term benefits that are both direct and indirect that results in not only revenue generation,
but job creation, action sports activation, lake activation and key ecosystems that support the
goals of the city long term.
Staff will return to City Council as appropriate with fiscal impacts, implementation plans, and
recommended funding strategies as projects move into feasibility and execution phases.
(Subject Matter 1- 4 words only. Do Not add date or page numbering)
Page 5 of 5
Attachments
Attachment 1- Lake Elsinore Sports Industry Growth and Attraction Plan (2026-2040)
District 1
Mayor
Brian Tisdale
Elected 2022
District 2
Councilmember
Steve Manos
Elected 2024
District 3
Councilmember
Tim Sheridan
Elected 2022
District 4
Councilmember
Natasha Johnson
Elected 2024
District 5
Mayor Pro Tem
Bob Magee
Elected 2024
DISTRICT BOUNDARY MAP
Lake Elsinore
Action Sports Industry
Growth & Attraction Plan
(2026–2040)
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 2
LAKE ELSINORE CITY COUNCIL
District 1
Councilmember
Brian Tisdale
Elected 2022
VISION STATEMENT
To establish Lake Elsinore as the Action Sports Capital of the World, and Southern California’s premier
destination and innovation hub for action sports, fostering community, tourism, and economic development
through strategic investments, partnerships, and branding.
WHY LAKE ELSINORE?
Lake Elsinore already has a strong action sports foundation:
•Home to Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park
(Lake Elsinore Raceway)
•Natural terrain ideal for motocross, BMX,
mountain biking, wakeboarding, water
skiing, golf, wake surfing, tubing,
skateboarding, skydiving, off-roading, and
hang gliding to name a few…
•Proximity to action sports hubs like San
Diego and Los Angeles
•Large youth population and lifestyle-driven
culture (In a 2.5 hour radius with Lake
Elsinore as the center- the city has the best
demographics in the world for action sports
enthusiasts and investments in the
industry)
Now is the time to double down and do a marketing campaign for the city as:
“Lake Elsinore: Action Sports HQ” and “Southern California’s Playground”
District 2
Councilmember
Steve Manos
Elected 2024
District 3
Mayor Pro Tem
Tim Sheridan
Elected 2022
District 4
Councilmember
Micheal Carroll
Appointed 2025
District 5
Mayor
Robert “Bob” Magee
Elected 2024
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 3
STRATEGIC GOALS
(Incorporate into city’s General Plan, Dream Extreme 2040 Plan, Comprehensive Economic Development
Strategy and Plan, and City’s Parks and Recreation Masterplan, and other key plans for cross-sectional
collaboration and development among multiple city departments, chamber and other key stakeholders)
1. Infrastructure & Facilities Expansion
Key Actions:
• Upgrade and modernize Lake Elsinore Motorcross Park: Improve safety, amenities, and track quality.
(Encourage and support investments in the final location and destination for the track).
• Develop a world-class skatepark and BMX park: Target an X-Games-level destination with event-hosting
capacity. Add to Parks and Recreation Masterplan.
• Pursue multi-use design: make each venue modular to host both community use and pro-level events
(i.e., flexible skatepark with competition overlays)
• Add a Mountain Bike Trail System in surrounding hills with gravity-fed downhill trails.
• Explore a Cable Wake Park on Lake Elsinore or at a new man-made lake (public-private partnership).
• Designate land for an Action Sports Innovation Campus for R&D, prototyping, and training, and develop
an opportunity zone for the development.
• Action Sports Training Academy: multi-sport facility with coaching, biomechanics lab, recovery center,
and film/media training rooms (to attract pros + youth).
• Wavegarden/Surf Lake or Island: to capture surf/skate crossover market.
2. Events & Tourism Development
Key Actions:
• Launch the Lake Elsinore Action Sports Festival: Include motocross, BMX, skateboarding, live music, and
a vendor village. Develop into a signature global event (like Coachella for action sports). Can tie into
concerts, film premieres, and gear expos. (City hosted)
• Bring back the Grand Prix- paying homage to the city’s history- and growing the event with other
activities and festival- eventually adding UTVs, and other opportunities to grow the event, etc- a
community revival.
• Attract touring events: X-Games qualifiers, Red Bull events, Monster Energy showcases, USASA, Off-
Road Festival- with Martelli Bros, etc.
• Support amateur competitions and youth training camps year-round.
• Create a refreshed Visit Lake Elsinore Website and annual Visitor Guide.
• Create and establish a Tourism Improvement District (TBID).
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 4
• Create a standalone Tourism Board for Lake Elsinore in part of the TBID, and convey the Visitors Guide
and Visitors Website to new standalone Bureau. Do feasibility study for the TBID and implementation.
• Partner with local hotels and tourism boards for action sports vacation packages, and actions sport
operators in Lake Elsinore and expand the Extreme Alliance 2.0 (partnerships among action sports
venues and amenities in Lake Elsinore).
• Encourage Yachting Clubs, and lake activation clubs and groups for the Lake. Partner with stakeholder
groups, such as fishing and watersport companies, and manufacturers to support and sponsor events
and fishing reports.
• Work with Recreation Department, the Alliance 2.0, and establish year-round competition circuit: winter
→ MTB downhill; spring → wake/water sports; summer → motocross; fall → skate/BMX. Creates
constant tourism flow.
• Enhance and grow our existing Fishing Derbies for Lake Elsinore. (Recreation Department)
• Action Sports added to an Lake Elsinore Film Festival / Media Awards → position as HQ for storytelling &
content creation. Create a Film Familiarization Tour, and expand to a future Film LE Festival.
• Include esports tie-in: host gaming competitions tied to motocross/BMX/Skate games, drawing younger
digital audiences. Ie Computer sports, drone sports, etc. Work with school district to create feeder clubs,
and tie into pathways at college level.
• Develop hack-a-thons- and partner with college and Chamber of Commerce on events.
• Work with various city departments and partnerships to re-establish Competition Channel→ National
Jet Boat Association.
3. Business Incentives & Industry Attraction
Key Actions:
• Offer tax incentives (Property or Fee waivers, etc) or rebates for companies in the action sports sector
relocating or expanding in Lake Elsinore (gear manufacturers, startups, training centers).
• Innovation Fund / Seed Grants: small grants or low-interest loans for startups in gear, media, or sports
tech.
• Promote Opportunity Zone benefits for new developments tied to action sports.
• Establish a city-supported incubator or co-working space focused on action sports gear, media, and
design.
• Develop a Creative District near the lake with cafes, gear shops, and small studios for action sports
entrepreneurs and media creators.
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 5
4. Marketing & Branding
Key Actions:
• Launch a branded campaign: “Ride Elsinore” or “Action Starts Here” across digital and physical media- to
tie into the Lake Elsinore: Action Sports HQ and Southern California’s Playground
• Partner with pro athletes and influencers from motocross, skate, BMX, and MTB to become City
Ambassadors.
• Develop an Extreme Ambassador Program- partnership with Visit Lake Elsinore and Recreation
/Economic Development that shares Lake Elsinore information, and “welcome chuck wagon” concept
for visitors along shoreline, the coves, summerly, motocross, etc. friendly and welcoming to Lake
Elsinore- in partnership with the Lake Elsinore Chamber of Commerce.
• Develop content with these ambassadors showcasing how Lake Elsinore is “their playground.”
• Develop a fishing report on key details of the lake, and develop a extreme sports podcast with guests,
discussing conditions and activities, events, with key guests for enthusiast alike.
• Build a compelling online presence (website + socials) showcasing action sports lifestyle, facilities, trails,
and opportunities tied to the Visitors Bureau or Visit Lake Elsinore website.
• Use drone footage and athlete content to showcase the region’s natural playground.
• Invest in immersive experiences: AR/VR content to “ride the lake” or “jump the motocross track”
virtually before visiting.
• Build mobile-first visitor app: maps of trails, event schedules, gear rentals, hotel deals or tie into Visit
Lake Elsinore once established.
• Create a Lake Elsinore Athlete Residency Program: house and promote 5–10 high-profile athletes each
year as permanent ambassadors.
• Establish the “Extreme Alliance 2.0” and develop vacation packages for the Casino, Skydive, the Lake
Elsinore Storm, Launch Pointe, Summerly Golf Course, and Pins and Pockets, to name only a few
attractions.
5. Youth Engagement & Workforce Development
Key Actions:
• Partner with local schools to create action sports clubs and programs such as rowing or crew, and other
water sports.
• Build partnerships with colleges and vocational schools for sports media, product design, and
engineering pathways.
• Offer internships and apprenticeships at gear companies, media studios, and training facilities.
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 6
•Establish a nonprofit youth foundation to provide access to sports gear and training for underserved
communities or partner with existing ones to provide access to gear an training
•Work with local chamber and school district, and charters to create lake programing for students
•Action Sports Charter School / Academy: combine academics with training (similar to IMG Academy for
traditional sports).
•Develop certifications in coaching, event management, equipment design, and media, positioning Lake
Elsinore as the training ground for future professionals.
•Create scholarship programs for underserved youth to compete nationally/internationally under the
“Lake Elsinore” banner.
•Develop process for tracking statistics for international athletes training or residing in city, utilizing
stakeholders in the city.
KEY PERFORMANCE METRICS (KPIs)
Lake Elsinore already has a strong action sports foundation:
Metric Target by 2040
Annual Visitors for Action Sports 500,000+
New Action Sports Businesses 15+
Youth Participation Growth +150%
Regional Economic Impact $100M+ annually
Social Media Reach (City Branding) 100k followers combined
Number of Annual Events 12+ major & grassroots (City and Private Events)
Events Televised/Streamed Globally 10% increase
International Athletes training or residing in
Lake Elsinore 25 or more
Workforce Development 10-20 students graduating from Action Sports related
programming from Lake Elsinore
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 7
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
•Red Bull, Monster Energy, GoPro, Vans, Fox Racing, Troy Lee Designs, Mason Motorsports, DRD
Motorsports, etc.
•Temecula Valley Entrepreneurs Exchange (TVE2)
•Diamond Stadium (crossover event hosting)
•California Parks & Recreation Society / Outdoor Access organizations
•Recreation , City of Lake Elsinore
•Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park – Lake Elsinore Raceway
•Local builders and skatepark companies (Spohn Ranch, Dreamland Skateparks, Grindline )
•Surf Tech Companies (wavegarden, etc.)
•Tech/media partners (GoPro, Meta, Youtube, ESPN)
•Esports brands (EA Sports, Activision, Twitch)
•Tourism crossover with Temecula Valley Wine County- Visit Temecula (if permitted not impacting TOT
and PBID in Lake Elsinore), Visit California, SoCal Adventure Tourism boards, etc.
•Jet Boat and Motorsports Companies and stakeholders
IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE
2026
•Update city plans and documents to incorporate the Action Sports Industry Growth and Attraction Plan
(Parks and Lake Master Plans, Economic Development Strategy and Plans, Etc.)
•Form Taskforce, or subcommittee on Action Sports
•Begin branding & social media rollout
•Create feasibility and TBID formation
•Develop Visit Lake Elsinore refreshed website and visitors guide
•Apply for grants & seek private investors
•Identify R &D Location
o Work with Community Development on land use and designations in General Plan
2027
•Conduct feasibility studies or market analysis for attraction efforts
•Kick off design of skate/BMX park
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 8
•Develop Opportunity Zone and tie into General Plan
•Host inaugural Action Sports Summit Festival with partners and in City
•Complete second major facility (e.g., skatepark or mountain bike trail system) aside from Rosetta Sports
Park
•Attract 5+ businesses to relocate
2028–2040
•Full-scale events and tourism boom
•Industry campus + R&D facilities open
•International recognition as Action Sports Destination
2026-2040 Lake Elsinore Action Sports Industry Growth & Attraction Plan 9
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Lake, water quality, water, energy, utilities, air, climate,
environmental regulations, and waste management
PUBLIC SAFETY
Law enforcement, fire and life safety, emergency communications, emergency
services, disaster preparedness, nuisance abatement, and animal control services
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Land use, annexation, housing, building standards, redevelopment,
mobile homes, sign regulations and CDBG.
THANK YOU TO THE CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE CITY STAFF AND STAKEHOLDERS FOR
YOUR COLLABORATION IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ACTION SPORTS HQ PLAN:
Lake Elsinore City Council
Jason Simpson, City Manager
Shannon Buckley, Assistant City Manager
Gina Gonzalez, Director of Economic Development and Legislative Affairs
Damaris Abraham, Community Development Director
Yu Yagai, City Engineer
Johnathan Skinner, Community Services Director
Beau Davis, Assistant Community Services Director
Adam Gufarotti, Assistant Director of Lake and Community Operations
Nancy Huynh, Principal Planner
Traci Williams, Fire Marshal
Kim Cousins, Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce/Visitors Bureau