More than a thousand people packed a ballroom at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront Wednesday to hear about proposals to redevelop Seaport Village.
Developers introduced six different proposals to the Port of San Diego Board of Commissioners. The site includes approximately 70 acres of land and water located between Downtown San Diego and the Bay.
Marshall Merrifield, Chairman of the Port of the San Diego says the port is hoping to activate the bay with attractions and provide open space for public use.
“There's a whole mix of components and you want to balance those things,” Merrifield said.
For the first time, the public was invited to comment on the plans proposed by six developers on Wednesday.
Theresa Talley, of Sea Grant told NBC 7 that she wants the ocean environment to be sustained.
“We're just hoping that some of these messages of being concerned about the environment, people's well-being, the fishing industry and aquaculture stay on the forefront,” Talley said.
Local
Another proposal from Ripley Entertainment Inc. features a large Aquarium with event space. While developer McWhinney proposed a Marina and Wave park, a public seafood market, water front promenade, blue tech office space, and retail.
[G] Redevelopment Plans for Seaport Village
Nick Marinovich with Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 says the port should take their time and look at more than just the piece of land when coming up with a plan.
“This is a cornerstone of the legacy of the waterfront for San Diego. They really have an opportunity to do something right,” Marinovich said.
Great Western Pacific Inc. out of Seattle envisions a Tuna Harbor Pavilion and a large Ferris wheel.
Celebration Place from Doug Manchester and the Manchester Financial Group proposed building a large spire, or sail at the end of a walk, office space, and a place to dock and dine.
But Nick Virca, who lives in Downtown San Diego says he is worried that a large structure would impact views of the bay.
“We're not too thrilled with the idea of a Ferris wheel or big sculptures because although they might be exciting to these developers, I'm not sure that they'll really do anything for our community for those of us who live downtown,” Virca said.
You can see a full list of the proposals here.
