By Councilmember Scott Sherman
Last week, I released my vision and menu of financing options for a new Chargers stadium at the current Qualcomm site.
The plan was submitted to the Citizens Stadium Advisory Group (CSAG) for their review and recommendation.
Recently, CSAG recommended the current Mission Valley site as the best location for a new Chargers stadium. As the representative of that area, I felt it was my responsibility to lay out a list of options and recommendations for their consideration.
For the past two months, I have held a series of town halls to hear the feedback and concerns from District 7 residents. I used much of what I learned from those town halls to form this plan.
I heard overwhelmingly that residents want to keep the Chargers in San Diego. However, many in the community still have a bad taste in their mouth from bad deals made in the past like the infamous ticket guarantee.
This is why, as a part of my plan, no money from the general fund should be used for the construction of the stadium, and any deal must be approved by taxpayers through a public vote.
Residents also made very clear that infrastructure and traffic improvements must be considered. As a part of my plan, I included recommendations for traffic mitigation measures such as stop light optimization, more access roads as well as increased public transportation.
My plan also pushes for the revitalization of the San Diego River, creating a destination filled with walking and bike paths along a restored riverfront much like the Riverwalk in San Antonio, Texas.
In an area that is in much need of park space, the plan includes the dedication of at least a 20-acre park as a part of the revitalization of the 166-acre Qualcomm site.
This is by no means a final plan. I am still very interested in hearing your feedback and ideas. This vision and menu of financing options is meant to add to the discussion and possibly help CSAG with the important decision that they will be making soon.
I also want to hear from you. I receive my best ideas for government reforms and programs from the people I represent. What ideas do you have to improve our great city? Please send me your ideas to [email protected] or call 619-236-6677.
—Councilmember Scott Sherman represents the neighborhoods of Allied Gardens, Grantville, San Carlos, Del Cerro and Mission Trails on the San Diego City Council. Contact him at [email protected] or 619-236-6677.
