The Port of San Diego took a major step toward cementing its future Wednesday with the Board of Port Commissioners certifying the port’s master plan update’s final environmental impact report.
The Port Master Plan designates specific areas of San Diego Bay and the surrounding waterfront for a variety of uses including maritime, fishing, visitor-serving commercial, recreational, environmental conservation and protection, and navigation, a statement from the port reads.
Essentially, it determines where port activities can take place, where recreational amenities should be located, and where commercial uses like hotels, restaurants and retail may be built.
Following Wednesday’s unanimous approval of the EIR by the commissioners, all that remains is getting the Port Master Plan Update certified by the California Coastal Commission — a goal the port hopes to meet in late 2024.
“We are excited to enter the final phase of this important plan that reflects our collective vision — of our communities, stakeholders, and the port — for the future of San Diego Bay and the surrounding waterfront,” said Chairman Frank Urtasun, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners.
“After 11 years of community engagement including numerous public meetings and exchanges with the public, the PMPU will help us continue to deliver on promises made to voters when the port was established in 1962.
“It will protect and enhance opportunities for public access and parks, preserve our natural resources, balance the need for development, provide good paying jobs, and more,” he said.
A master plan is required by the San Diego Unified Port District Act and the California Coastal Act. The current plan was approved in 1981. There have been location-specific amendments since then, but never a comprehensive update.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who provided input and engaged with this process,” said Commissioner Ann Moore. “Your commitment and involvement has ensured a very thorough and comprehensive effort.
“The port has worked very hard to engage as many people as possible to ensure this plan meets the needs of all Californians and our communities for the next several decades,” she said. “We look forward to the next stage with the California Coastal Commission and to celebrating when we cross the finish line.”