CHULA VISTA, Calif.—
The South Bay moved one step closer Tuesday to creating a major bay front development that many in the county and city of Chula Vista have longed for.After a three hour meeting that included public comment, the port commissioners voted to certify the 12,000 page environmental impact report for the Chula Vista Bayfront Master Plan.
"The city of Chula Vista has been after this for 34 years," said Mayor Cheryl Cox. "It was in the 70's that the first plans came forward."
Dozens of people spoke before the commission and gave their support. A handful voiced their opposition.
"The decision we are making today on behalf of the Chula Vista bay front is the highest decision that I will make as a commissioner," said Port Commission Chair Dukie Valderrama.
The project plan included hotels, a convention center, housing, retail, nearly 200 acres of open space, and habitat enhancements to the waterfront. Even environmental groups, who were initially opposed to the idea years ago, have given the plan their stamp of approval. The plan included three districts - the harbor, Otay and Sweetwater districts.
"In fact, there will be 80 acres of open space and parks on just the Sweetwater district alone," said Laura Hunter, a member of the environmental health coalition. "Ten years ago, that was proposed for 3400 residential condos."
Next the plan must be presented to the State Lands Commission and the California Coastal Commission.
"Hopefully when we go to the next level we can get the approval and break ground in another year," said Valderrama.
