News Summary
The San Diego City Council will reconsider a proposed ordinance for paid parking in Balboa Park after local residents expressed significant concerns. Council President Joe LaCava suggested postponing the proposal to allow staff more time to gather information and address issues, particularly the financial implications for essential services and its impact on visitors. The ordinance aims to enhance parking management while generating revenue for park maintenance. Continuing discussions will weigh the financial benefits against resident concerns and park accessibility.
San Diego, CA – The San Diego City Council will revisit a proposed ordinance to implement paid parking in certain areas of Balboa Park, following significant pushback from local residents. This decision comes after a previous discussion led to the proposal being returned to city staff for further refinement.
Council President Joe LaCava has recommended that the consideration of the proposal be postponed, allowing city staff additional time to address concerns and gather more information. The ordinance’s objectives include improving parking management, ensuring long-term financial sustainability, and enhancing the visitor experience in Balboa Park.
On July 28, the council initially passed a related ordinance by a vote of 6-2. Councilmembers Jennifer Campbell and Raul Campillo opposed the measure, while Councilmember Vivian Moreno was absent during the vote. Recently, however, both Moreno and Councilman Stephen Whitburn have raised alarms about the financial implications of the proposed fees, particularly concerning their impact on senior citizens and essential city services.
Financial Implications
Whitburn has specifically highlighted concerns regarding funding for city departments if parking revenues do not meet projections. The Fiscal Year 2026 Adopted Budget anticipates generating $15.5 million from parking in Balboa Park, which includes $12.5 million from parking fees and $3 million from zoo parking. Failure to approve the ordinance might result in a shortfall for crucial services such as extended hours at libraries and recreation centers.
According to the proposal, all parking revenue would be allocated specifically toward Balboa Park maintenance, infrastructure, and visitor amenities. The proposed parking program comprises three pricing tiers determined by demand and location. Parking fees are expected to start at $2.50 per hour for up to four hours, applicable from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, in a new district established in July, which includes areas south of Upas Street and east of Sixth Avenue.
Visitor Trends and Parking Management
A report from the city’s Independent Budget Analyst office indicated that there is some uncertainty regarding how paid parking might influence visitor behavior. Additionally, there is insufficient data on visitation rates from non-residents. A comprehensive parking study commissioned in June 2024 identified the need for better management of parking inventory in the park.
The average occupancy rates for Park Boulevard and Sixth Avenue are notably high, reported at 72% and 81% respectively. To accommodate county residents who might live closer to Balboa Park, some council members are considering residential parking discounts. If approved, the ordinance could also allow for the installation of parking meters along streets within Balboa Park, including President’s Way and El Prado.
Ongoing Discussions and Future Considerations
Parks and Recreation Department Director Andy Field has stressed the necessity of balancing reasonable parking options with adequate funding for park maintenance. Current plans include the continuation of free parking for park staff and volunteers.
Additionally, the San Diego City Council is reviewing an amendment to the existing lease agreement with the Zoological Society of San Diego regarding future parking fees at the San Diego Zoo. Under the current terms, the zoo is restricted from lowering or eliminating parking fees for specific groups, including staff and volunteers. The proposed lease amendment aims to better align parking fees with the operational needs of the zoo as part of the broader modifications planned for Balboa Park.
As discussions continue, the council is expected to weigh the financial benefits of paid parking against the concerns of residents and potential impacts on park usage. The ultimate decision on the ordinance will determine not only funding for maintenance and amenities but also accessibility for visitors and residents alike.
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Additional Resources
- NBC San Diego: San Diego City Council to Revisit Balboa Park Parking Fees
- 10News: Downtown San Diego Events Impacted by Parking Prices
- San Diego Union-Tribune: Padres Game Parking Fees
- Google Search: San Diego City Council Parking Fees
- CBS 8: City Council Considers Parking Fees at San Diego Zoo
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
