The city of Chula Vista deliberated on the future of Harborside Park on Tuesday night, marking a significant step forward after its closure nearly two years ago. A compact soccer field will be part of the park’s restoration, which is set for a grand reopening in the fall. The resolution to adopt a grant agreement, supported by the U.S. Soccer Foundation, has provided a clear vision for the park’s future.
Local resident Leticia Laras expressed her main concern regarding safety at Harborside Park. Previously known for its increasing homeless population and crime, the park is now under construction. “The homeless camp emerged during the pandemic when no one was using the park,” Laras explained. “But now, as it prepares to reopen, we will be using it once again.” On Tuesday, the city council approved the addition of a mini soccer field, funded partly by a grant from the U.S. Soccer Foundation and donations from professional soccer player Paul Arriola.
Mayor John McCann highlighted the improvements in security, including better lighting, fencing, and security cameras, to prevent the issues that led to the park’s closure in the summer of 2022. Additionally, he mentioned plans to discuss a homeless encampment ban next month. Local businesses like the window and door shop across the street, which suffered during the peak pandemic years, are hopeful for a positive change. “I was here when the homeless were in the park, and it led to a lot of drug use and vandalism,” said Alonzo Rios. The community eagerly anticipates the restored park’s reopening and the positive impact it will have on the neighborhood.
