Despite the rapid transformation of our downtown into urban neighborhoods filled with everyday activities, the waterfront is lacking refinement.
Although at first glance it’s as appealing as any postcard shot, once on the ground, there is a disconnect between the water’s edge and the bustling surroundings.
Some areas feel rather inauthentic, with shops and activities surrounded by quasi-public spaces designed for tourists. There are green open spaces that float upon the water but without a tangible link to the city. The most unpleasant areas are those expansive blocks of parked cars leaving you feeling far away from the desired destination.
Urban planners, architects, and downtown residents agree: The area between the water’s edge and the city needs to be authentic, connected and activated.
With the adoption of the development plan and urban design guidelines for redevelopment of the Navy Broadway Complex, 15 acres along Harbor Drive promises an astonishing transformation.
Centre City Development Corporation (CCDC) is charged with ensuring that the finalized project “reflects a shared vision that fits seamlessly into the surrounding community” by providing a mix of public spaces that will appeal to residents, workers and visitors alike.
Prior to and as each building comes forward for approval, CCDC will ask neighbors to weigh in on the subjective aspects of the building and its surrounding open space. This will be our time to make sure the proposals are engaging places with neighborhood uses that connect our community.
Will we be able to make our waterfront truly public? Will we continue to develop spaces for private commercial interest and visiting tourists, instead of putting the interests of those who live here first? Or do we campaign for extraordinary?
Will downtowners accept the extraordinarily ordinary?
Why settle when downtown already has so many components in place to activate the extraordinary? These downtowners all have something in common: hopes for a communal place to invite outdoor mingling and artistic touches.
Peter and Elaine Rodman (Horizons) will move into Electra and anticipate looking down on a beautiful development. Peter envisions a pleasant promenade surrounded by remarkable gardens to stroll through on his daily walks. Terrific restaurants and a Whole Foods market would greatly enhance the neighborhood. Elaine would particularly enjoy a performing arts center located within the site.
Norma Vega (Park Blvd West) envisions a promenade with shops and restaurants serving residents. Matthew Roth, her husband, would like a museum dedicated to downtown San Diego’s history.
Living in East Village, Tina Victory (Diamond Terrace) thinks the development should entice neighbors to take a walk and visit the site, such as canopies of trees creating the perfect picnic spot, places to relax and socialize with friends and a dog-friendly park.
Creating a space is ordinary. Creating a place is extraordinary. Downtown deserves extraordinary!
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