The ‘Performance Pavilion’ at the new East Village Green Park (Photo by Jim Brady of Brady Architectural Photography)

East Village Green Park is Close to Opening

By Frank Sabatini Jr.

Phase I construction of the 2.1-acre East Village Green Park was officially completed in mid-October. The milestone was marked by a walk-through tour hosted by the American Society of Landscape Architects San Diego. 

But the park gates haven’t yet opened, even though the playground, lawns and building structures are physically done. The holdup points to final safety sign-offs on the park’s interactive water features, which include a splash pad for kids. A last round of ADA inspections is also underway. In addition, a few light construction projects for putting the finishing touches on the area are in their final weeks.

The $83.9 million project ranks as the most expensive city-owned development in San Diego. It was funded largely through downtown revenue streams such as parking and development-impact fees—not by the City of San Diego’s general fund, as many assumed.

City officials say the park’s grand opening is expected to take place “later this fall.” The announcement will be made on a few official online portals such as the City of San Diego Newsroom; the Parks and Recreation website; and the East Village Association Network.