Chula Vista City officials seek the public’s input to reimagine Harborside Park after its forced closure for at least three months due to reportedly illicit and illegal activities.
The City Council approved a temporary closure of the park located on Oxford Street between Broadway and Industrial Boulevard in late August due to public health and safety concerns. A meeting took place Wednesday for the public to share their opinions on the possible programs, services, and uses of the 5-acre property.
“For us the Chula Vista Elementary school district, our number one priority is the safety of our students. We want to make sure that they feel safe, secure, praised, and valued,” said Dr. Eduardo Reyes, the superintendent for the Chula Vista Unified School District.
Since the park’s closure, the city has cleared homeless encampments and installed a chain-linked fence. The total temporary close of the park costs the city nearly $350,000.
The City of Chula Vista said it identified “sufficient spaces to accommodate people in Harborside Park that will accept immediate housing.” The city reported that about 30 individuals engaged with the homeless outreach team and non-profit and public agency partners.
The responses provided by residents on Wednesday were gathered through a survey to help with planning efforts. The survey will also remain open to the public until Oct. 21.
Visit the City of Chula Vista’s “Help Us Reimagine Harborside Park” webpage to fill out the survey.
