Dear Neighbor, 

 

I signed into law two long-overdue community plan updates that move San Diego forward: the Clairemont Community Plan and the College Area Community Plan. 

 

For more than 30 years, both communities were guided by plans that no longer reflected today’s needs. Updating them was necessary to address our housing shortage, improve safety and mobility, and make sure growth strengthens these neighborhoods. 

 

In Clairemont, the updated plan adds capacity for 14,000 new homes in village areas near transit and allows aging shopping centers like Clairemont Town Square to evolve into mixed-use spaces that better serve residents. It prioritizes walkable neighborhoods, safer intersections, and new parks and recreational spaces. 

 

In the College Area, the updated plan adds capacity for up to 17,750 new homes near San Diego State University and along key corridors like College Avenue, Montezuma Road, and El Cajon Boulevard. It also plans for new public spaces and safer, more walkable streets that support students, families, and local businesses. 

 

These updates reflect years of community input and careful planning. As always, it’s an honor to serve as your Mayor. 

 

2025 Progress Report: Creating Jobs and Elevating San Diego Globally

San Diego strengthened its position as a global city in 2025 — creating jobs, attracting investment, and expanding international connections that deliver real economic benefits at home.

 

The City was selected as the future home of the flagship TED Conference beginning in 2027, bringing global attention and long-term economic impact to San Diego. 

 

We helped secure two new international flights to Amsterdam and Panama City, generating more than $60 million in economic benefit for our region. The Amsterdam flight was a direct result of the World Trade Center San Diego trade mission to the Netherlands that I led. San Diego also hosted major global events like WWE Survivor Series, driving significant local economic activity and hotel tax revenue, and was named a finalist to host the 2029 Invictus Games — an opportunity that would deliver meaningful economic impact while supporting our veteran community. 

 

San Diego expanded its global partnerships by formalizing a new Sister City relationship with Marseille, France, opening doors to collaboration in blue technology, nuclear fusion, and life sciences. We also welcomed senior business delegations from the Philippines representing thousands of companies exploring investment and partnership opportunities in our region, and advocated for trade policies that benefit San Diego through engagement with U.S. and Mexican federal governments during the review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. 

 

Closer to home, we advanced long-term economic growth in the South Bay by completing the federal environmental review for the Brown Field Airport redevelopment and adopting the first update to the airport’s master plan in more than 40 years. This work clears the way for a major aviation and commercial development expected to generate approximately $1.5 billion in economic impact and create jobs for San Diegans. 

 

Together, these efforts show how San Diego is building a stronger economy, creating opportunity, and positioning our city to compete and succeed on a global stage. 

 

 

Federal Funding Advances Stormwater Upgrades Across San Diego

The City secured more than $4 million in federal funding to advance stormwater infrastructure projects that reduce flooding risk and protect neighborhoods across San Diego. These funds support long-needed upgrades to drainage systems, channels, and pump stations in communities that have faced repeated storm impacts. 

 

The investment moves forward four projects, including drainage improvements along Beta Street in Southcrest to better manage flooding from Chollas Creek, habitat restoration and channel upgrades along the Jamacha drainage system, erosion repairs at Famosa Slough, and reliability upgrades to a critical pump station. This work strengthens our stormwater network and helps safeguard homes, streets, and public spaces during major storm events. 

 

This funding delivers real results for San Diegans by improving infrastructure, reducing flood risk, and preparing our city for more intense weather. It’s another example of how we are securing resources, fixing what was deferred, and investing in the basics that keep neighborhoods safe and functioning. 

 

Financial Assistance Available for Trash and Recycling Fees

San Diego trash and recycling customers can now apply for a new Financial Assistance Program designed to help eligible households cover the cost of annual trash and recycling services. The program supports homeowners who live in their home as a primary residence and meet income or public assistance eligibility requirements. 

 

Approved participants can receive a credit covering approximately half of the annual trash and recycling fee, with additional assistance available for qualifying property owners enrolled in the County’s property tax payment plan. The program is funded through the City’s FY2026 budget and customer donations, and applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. 

 

In-person assistance is available at community locations citywide for residents who need help with the application process. 

 

A full list of eligibility requirements, application details, and clinic dates and locations is available here. 

 

State Funding Advances Long-Awaited Grove Neighborhood Park in Otay Mesa-Nestor  

A long-awaited community investment in Otay Mesa-Nestor is moving forward with $4.3 million in state funding secured by State Assemblymember David Alvarez to fully fund Phase 1 construction of Grove Neighborhood Park. 

 

This investment will transform an undeveloped lot into new green space and recreational amenities for local families. 

 

Phase 1 construction will include children’s play areas, picnic facilities, public art, security lighting, walkways, and right-of-way improvements along 27th Street. Grove Neighborhood Park is a project the community has advocated for over many years, and this funding brings the neighborhood significantly closer to a safe, welcoming place to gather, play, and enjoy the outdoors. 

 

Following final permitting, the City expects to release construction bids later this year. Once awarded, construction is anticipated to take approximately 15 to 18 months. This project reflects our commitment to expanding access to parks and investing in neighborhoods that have waited far too long for quality public spaces. 

 

🌎🤝 Mayor’s Mix: A Binational Region 🤝🌎 

In our last trivia feature, we asked: When did Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. make his final visit to San Diego and deliver his last address here? 

 

Here’s how you voted: 

▪️ April 3, 1964 — 26.23% (16) 
✅ May 29, 1964 — 54.10% (33) 
▪️ August 28, 1964 — 19.67% (12) 

The correct answer is May 29, 1964. Dr. King delivered two speeches in San Diego during his final visit, leaving a lasting mark on our city’s civil rights history. 

 

This week’s questionApproximately how many people cross the San Diego–Tijuana border each day, making it one of the busiest binational regions in the world? 

▪️ About 25,000 
▪️ About 75,000 
▪️ About 150,000 

Answer below or send your guess to AskTheMayor@sandiego.gov — and check back next week to see if you got it right. 

 

GETTING IT DONE - FIXING OUR STREETS

 

Nutmeg Street Resurfaced in Bankers Hill 

Nutmeg Street in Bankers Hill between 3rd Avenue and 6th Avenue had fallen into serious disrepair and has now been fully resurfaced. City crews milled the existing pavement and added a fresh layer of asphalt. 

Nutmeg Street in Bankers Hill

 

MAYOR GLORIA AROUND TOWN

 
 

Honoring Dr. King’s Legacy at MLK Park in Southeastern San Diego

Dr. King built power through community. That spirit filled Martin Luther King Jr. Community Park in Southeastern San Diego during the 16th annual MLK Jr. Community Celebration and Sportsfest. Families, students, and neighbors came together to honor a legacy rooted in service, unity, and the ongoing fight for dignity, justice, and opportunity in every zip code. 

 

Advancing Life Sciences Jobs in Sorrento Valley

Bora Biologics marked the expansion of its FDA-approved manufacturing facility in Sorrento Valley with a $30 million investment that strengthens U.S.-based biologics manufacturing and supports good-paying jobs. This expansion reinforces San Diego’s role as a global leader in life sciences and advanced manufacturing. 

 

Building the City’s Next Generation of Leaders

Graduates of the City of San Diego’s Management Fellowship Program were recognized for completing a rigorous program focused on solving real challenges across City departments. These emerging leaders are helping improve how the City works every day, and investing in our workforce means delivering better, more responsive services for San Diegans in every neighborhood. 

 

SAN DIEGO ON THE GLOBAL STAGE

 

Honoring San Diego’s Italian Roots Through Global Partnership 

 

Alongside the Consul General of Italy in Los Angeles, Raffaella Valentini, my team helped open the Italian Pavilion at the Winter Fancy Food Fair - an impressive showcase of Italian cuisine and San Diego culinary icons. In recognition of San Diego’s deep ties to Italy, rooted in the contributions of Italian immigrants who helped shape our city, my team presented a letter for the Mayor of Genoa to jumpstart further collaboration between our two cities. Moments like this reflect our pride in San Diego’s immigrant heritage and the generations of Italian families who helped build our City - from early waterfront neighborhoods to today’s Little Italy - while creating cultural and economic opportunities that benefit San Diegans today. 

 

SERVING SAN DIEGO: BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS

 

Join the La Jolla Shores Planned District Advisory Board 

The City is seeking community members interested in serving on the La Jolla Shores Planned District Advisory Board. This board plays an important role in helping guide development in La Jolla Shores while preserving the neighborhood’s unique coastal character. 

 

Board members review and provide recommendations on permit applications, including Planned Residential Developments, advise on regulatory updates, and apply established architectural criteria to development proposals. This work helps protect public health and safety, maintain neighborhood character, and support thoughtful land use in one of San Diego’s most distinctive coastal communities. 

 

Residents who want to contribute their time and perspective are encouraged to apply. For more information, contact Chida Warren, Director of Appointments, Boards and Commissions at CRWarren@sandiego.gov or apply online here. 

COMMUNITY UPDATES

 

Join the Conversation on Accessing City Council Information

The Office of the City Clerk is hosting community listening sessions to hear directly from residents about how they access City Council agendas, notices, and public information. These sessions are an opportunity to share what works, what can be improved, and how the City can make it easier for people to participate in local government. Community members are encouraged to attend in person or virtually and complete the public engagement survey to help shape future improvements.

Upcoming Community Listening Sessions:

Thursday, February 19, 2026, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Tierrasanta Recreation Center
11220 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92124
Attendees are also encouraged to complete the Public Engagement Survey to share their experiences and ideas for improving public access.
 
Survey links:
Residents are encouraged to attend in person or participate virtually through Zoom at www.sandiego.gov/listening or by telephone at 1-669-254-5252 Meeting ID: 160-023-4308.
To contact the Office of the City Clerk about this event—or if you are requesting a translator for the in-person session—please email cityclerk@sandiego.gov or call 619-533-4000.
 

New Online Portal for Balboa Park Parking 

Parking passes for Balboa Park are now available through a new online portal, giving City of San Diego residents access to discounted rates when they verify residency in advance. The portal offers annual, monthly, daily, and hourly options, with up to three hours of free parking at Lower Inspiration Point. Parking revenues will be reinvested directly into park operations and maintenance, helping preserve this treasured public space for generations to come. 

 

Help Shape the Future of Recreation Programming in San Diego

The City’s Parks and Recreation Department is inviting residents to help shape the future of recreation in San Diego. Community input will guide how recreation centers operate, what programs are offered, and how residents receive information about them.

 

The Parks and Recreation Department is inviting community leaders and representatives to 45-minute Zoom focus groups to share ideas, flag barriers to participation, and improve how we communicate about programs. Sessions include a brief presentation, Q&A, and an interactive survey. Registration is required. 

Upcoming dates (by Council Districts): 
 

Upcoming Virtual Focus Groups

  • Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026: All Council Districts
    4 p.m.

Questions: sdparksneeds@keenindependent.com 

 

You can also take the Community Recreation Needs Survey at sandiego.gov/parksurvey by February 28, 2026.

 

Civic Center Plaza Comes Alive with Plaza Central Pop-Ups 

Downtown’s Civic Center Plaza is getting a vibrant refresh with Plaza Central — a new series of pop-up events bringing food, music, and art to the heart of the city. The activations are free and open to the public every Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering a lively preview of the area’s long-term revitalization. 

 

Stay Informed with Inside San Diego

Stay up-to-date with the latest news and information about our city through Inside San Diego, our new hub for all things San Diego.

 

From community updates to important City announcements, Inside San Diego is your go-to source for staying engaged and informed as a resident.

 

Don’t miss out on critical alerts and updates—sign up today to receive notifications via email or text message.

 

It’s a simple way to stay connected with everything happening in our great city. Subscribe now!

 

Get the latest news from the City on Inside San Diego

 

Sign up for the “From the Mayor’s Desk” newsletter

Reach out to my office —

Office of the Mayor
202 C St., 11th Floor
San Diego, CA 92101
619-236-6330

Message my office here.

sandiego.gov/mayor

Unsubscribe from future updates