An illustrative example of a new Civic Center (created by Design Distil for U3 Advisors)

The San Diego Civic Center Awaits Big Changes

By Frank Sabatini Jr.

A powerhouse coalition of urban-planning groups recently presented San Diego’s Land Use and Housing Committee with an exciting design plan that will transform downtown’s outdated Civic Center into a vibrant six-block hub for city dwellers and visitors alike.

Among the 20 local organizations leading the effort are the Downtown San Diego Partnership and the Prebys Foundation. They have teamed up with U3 Advisors, a nationally recognized urban design firm headquartered in Philadelphia. 

Current discussions about the project include incorporating spaces for the performing arts; learning centers; housing for teachers, students and artists; restaurants and retailers; child-care facilities; and an open area tailored to night markets and community events.

The project will be phased over several years while welcoming community input along the way. The first phase is slated to begin by later this year. 

Initial funding has been provided by the Presbys Foundation. Subsequent funding will be largely derived from private investors, generous city donors, public subsidies, sustained fundraising, and contributions from partnership organizations such as the San Diego Community College District.

“For too long, San Diego’s Civic Center has not lived up to its potential as a dynamic public space,” said Betsy Brennan, president and CEO of Downtown San Diego Partnership. “Today we take what we have learned through months of stakeholder outreach, the previous work of the City of San Diego, and the historical interest of what is possible for this space as momentum to turn the page.”

Structures that fall within the Civic Center core include Golden Hall, the City Administration Building, the City Operations Building, the San Diego Civic Theatre, and several others.