Harborside Park Temporary Closure
Harborside Park was closed temporarily starting August 31, 2022 to address the growing concern regarding criminal activity that has increased at the park and to work with the community to develop long-term solutions.
UPDATE AS OF 5/17/23
On May 16, 2023, the City Council considered staff recommendations to approve funding for "Phase 1" improvements at Harborside Park. The Council did not approve the recommendation and instead directed staff to:
Evaluate and provide recommendations to City Council on: 1) a joint use agreement with the Chula Vista Elementary School District to provide additional use and oversight of Harborside Park and maintain community access; and 2) options to declare the Harborside Park space surplus land and to require future developments to address community needs, such as including a recreational facility on the site. A specific timeline for returning to Council was not requested.
The City Council’s action did not include reopening the park with the approach presented by staff. The park will remain closed at this time.
On July 25, 2023, the City Manager presented an update to the City Council regarding the joint use agreement request sent to the Chula Vista Elementary School District. A copy of the District’s response letter was included in the item.
City staff continues to evaluate and analyze the other City Council directive related to the Surplus Land Act.
Community Survey #2 Results
In April and May 2023 the community was surveyed on a phased approach to the reopening of Harborside Park.
Community Survey #2 Results of English Survey
Community Survey #2 Results of Spanish Survey
Community Survey #1 Results
During the Fall of 2022 the community was surveyed to determine priorities for future solutions of the Harborside site. Overall respondents indicated they would like to see the site developed into a community center that would include features such as a walking trail, multipurpose field, pool, and playground. In addition the community remained divided regarding whether they wanted the park to be reopened on a temporary basis. Full survey results can be found below.
Harborside Community Survey Results of English Survey
Harborside Community Survey Results of Spanish Survey
Past Events
- Reimagine Harborside Park Community Workshop 9/21/22 from 5-7 p.m. at Harborside Elementary School (681 Naples Street)
- Harborside Elementary School Coffee Discussion 10/25/2022 from 8:45 - 9:45 a.m. at Harborside Elementary School (681 Naples)
- Reimagine Harborside Park Community Workshop11/14/22 from 5-7 p.m. at Harborside Elementary School (681 Naples Street)
History
On August 23, 2022, Chula Vista City Council approved a resolution authorizing the temporary closure of Harborside Park. During the 90 day closure period, the City of Chula Vista will increase community outreach to engage with Harborside Elementary and the Chula Vista Elementary School District, residents, business owners, social service providers and the County of San Diego (HHSA building is adjacent to the park) to determine options for long-term solutions for the site.
The City’s ability to maintain Harborside Park for public use while consistently offering services to the unsheltered population at that location had become a tremendous challenge. Due to the proximity to Harborside Elementary, local businesses and the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency, many were feeling the effects.
City outreach workers, park rangers and police officers on the Homeless Outreach Team were mitigating a variety of safety, health, and environmental concerns related to the activities at the park. The temporary closure will allow staff needed time to address these safety issues and public health risks at Harborside Park due to the illicit behavior and criminal activity that had increased.
During the park closure on August 31, the City held a “Connect Event” Unsheltered Individuals and Families Assisted at Harborside Park Connect Event to provide options to unsheltered individuals impacted by the closure who were willing to accept services.
After the park was cleared, an eight-foot perimeter fence was installed, and security personnel were stationed at the park to ensure it remains secure.
Due to continued work with the community on short and long-term reopening plans, the City Manager has authorized additional extensions to the temporary closure.
The next update to City Council is expected in May 2023.
Check back for periodic updates on Harborside Park.
Updated 5/17/23