Newport Beach : Residents Complain Over Foul Water at Fun Zone

Pumping operations at the old Balboa Fun Zone put a few noses out of joint this week as residents complained of foul odors coming from water being pumped from the site.

But the smell of foul water from an underground garage won’t be a problem any longer, said a spokesman for the Orange-based construction company that is rebuilding the old amusement park.

State inspectors shut down the pumping operation Thursday after residents complained of an odor similar to rotten eggs. Hisam Baqai of the state Regional Water Quality Control Board said samples of the water, which was being pumped into Newport Bay, revealed high levels of sulfide caused by decaying organic matter.

On Friday, the state ordered the suspension of pumping until a means could be found to bring sulfides down to acceptable levels. But Tom Grabiel, project manager for the J. A. Jones Construction Co., said the order is moot since workers don’t need to do any more pumping.

Work on rebuilding the Fun Zone, a landmark on the Balboa Peninsula for 50 years, began in May and is scheduled for completion by January. The revitalized Fun Zone would incorporate many of the features of the old park, such as rides and other attractions, as well as retail shops and restaurants.