Conceptual rendering of hotel
A conceptual rendering of the planned hotel, Courtesy of Sunroad Enterprises and Carrier Johnson + Culture

The Port of San Diego commissioners authorized a coastal development permit Tuesday for a $150 million, 450-room hotel across Harbor Island Drive from the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina.

A unit of Sunroad Enterprises, which already operates a marina nearby, plans to open the new hotel by 2025 on the 7.55-acre site at 851 Harbor Island Drive.

“Sunroad’s hotel project will not only be a great addition and attraction for visitors, but it will also offer a variety of activities for locals and add to the offerings that already exist on East Harbor Island — several fantastic restaurants, unbeatable coastal access, beautiful views, and proximity to San Diego International Airport,” said Port Commissioners Chair Michael Zucchet.

Sunroad envisions a 12-story wing with extended-stay rooms and a 15-story wing with limited-service rooms operated by two lodging brands.

Amenities open to the public would include a walk-up restaurant and bar area accessible via the sidewalk, designated public parking spaces and a 15-foot-wide waterfront promenade.

“We are very excited to move forward with this project,” said Uri Feldman of Sunroad.

The port selected Sunroad to develop the so-called “Elbow Parcel” on Harbor Island in September 2016 and earlier this year granted an option to lease it for 66 years.

Chris Jennewein is founder and senior editor of Times of San Diego.