The City has been working diligently to improve some of our most visited parks and open spaces in District 1. These park investments are foundational to ensuring that our open spaces are accessible and enhance the quality of life for our families and residents.

Announcing a completed project just in time for spring! The City of San Diego has completed work on a multi-year capital improvement project to the facilities at Ocean Air Park and Community Recreation Center.

 

This project includes newly constructed:

  • Restroom facilities;
  • Shade structures; and
  • Group picnic areas

As part of these improvements, the Ocean Air Park and Community Recreation Center will also now have a storage building and concession stand.

On March 16, the City of San Diego’s Parks and Recreation and Transportation Departments broke ground on a collaborative effort to widen the sidewalk at Ellen Browning Scripps Park.

 

Shortly after breaking ground, City staff completed the sidewalk widening ahead of schedule, doubling its width from 5 to 10 feet. This widening will accommodate high levels of foot traffic, enhance the park’s walkability, protect surrounding turf, and increase accessibility. As the project was underway, there were parking and noise impacts in the surrounding area, and we appreciate your understanding during the project’s implementation.

 

I was proud to spearhead this project in response to community requests. I thank City staff for accomplishing the work on time and under budget.
 

Speed Reductions in the City of San Diego

Speed is one of the most significant factors in determining whether or not a collision results in a fatality.

 

A single loss of life on our roads is one too many – and I know our community is hurting in the wake of three recent traffic fatalities. The City Council took an important first step toward making our streets and roads safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers by voting to reduce speed limits on 20% of all City streets, including many in Carmel Valley, Pacific Beach, La Jolla, and across District 1.

 

At the same time, we know that a change in speed limits is not enough. The City of San Diego’s Comprehensive Speed Management Plan goes beyond reducing speed limits and recommends strategies to calm traffic, implement street safety improvements, and deliver quick-build projects to address community needs more quickly.

 

There is much more work to be done, and I will continue to do everything I can at City Hall to make our streets and roads safer.
 

Get Involved in the Development of the FY 2027 Budget

The City of San Diego Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) Budget Process is well underway. The City Council held its second evening hearing for public input on the development of the FY27 Budget on March 10.

 

On April 15, the mayor will release his draft budget and present it to the City Council on April 20, followed by a series of public budget hearings May 4 through May 8. On May 13, the mayor will release the “May Revise”, an updated proposed budget, for Council and public consideration. Council is scheduled to approve the budget on June 9.  

 

We anticipate holding evening sessions for public input on May 4 and 18, starting at 6:00 pm. You can participate in-person, virtually at https://www.sandiego.gov/councilmtg, or join by telephone at 1-669-254-5252 ID Number 160 943 0466.

 

Our city faces a projected $120 million deficit, which will be balanced mainly through cuts. I continue to advocate for a measured approach that prioritizes core services for our residents.

 

Please stay engaged and make your voice heard as the Council deliberates on next year’s budget.
 

San Diego Zoo Lease Extension

Earlier this month, I voted yes to extend the City’s lease to the San Diego Zoo, helping to preserve and protect an iconic San Diego institution so that future visitors, families, and residents can continue to create cherished memories at the Zoo.

 

The terms of this lease extension provide necessary stability for San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance to support its efforts to promote sustainable conservation solutions while generating additional revenues to the City of San Diego. The San Diego Zoo drives nearly $1 billion in total economic impact for our region annually, and according to the Independent Budget Analyst, more than $330 million for the City is expected to be generated over the life of the lease.
 

La Jolla Town Hall

Thank you to all who joined me on March 4th for the annual La Jolla town hall. I appreciated your questions and comments on issues as wide-ranging from e-bikes to the budget.

 

Communicating with constituents is a top priority of mine. If you have any concerns or would like to share input, please reach out to me at 619-236-6611 or joelacava@sandiego.gov.
 

Upcoming: Learn Life-saving Skills at the Library

The Carmel Valley Library is hosting San Diego Project Heart Beat on Tuesday, April 21 for a free CPR and AED workshop from 12 to 1 p.m.

 

According to the American Heart Association, immediate administration of CPR can increase an individual’s chance of survival by two to three times. Regrettably, just approximately 4 out of 10 individuals who experience cardiac arrest receive this life-saving assistance before professional help arrives.

 

This workshop can give you the confidence and skills you need to help when it is needed most.

 

RSVP at heartbeatadmin@sandiego.gov.
 

Council President Joe LaCava

Councilmember, District 1

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