CHULA VISTA, Calif. — The reopening of Harborside Park has been long awaited by people living in Chula Vista. The park got closed down by the city in August 2022 over concerns of crime, homeless encampments and drug use.
Yadira Felix tells CBS 8 in Spanish that since the park's closure, she had to visit other parks further away. She’s one of several residents who attended a community forum where city staff gave an update on when Harborside Park will reopen.
“No specific date yet but we’re looking for early fall,” City of Chula Vista Department of Housing & Homeless Services Director Stacey Kurz said.
When Harborside reopens, families will notice it has a new look including a refurbished turf, reinstated walking trail and clean restrooms.
Kurz tells CBS 8 the city is being strategic about reopening the park in a phased manner so they can monitor and make adjustments as needed.
“There will be fencing around the park so that will help us control occupancy at the park and then we are going to have a lot more staffing presence,” Kurz said.
The news of the park reopening brought excitement to people in attendance including Michelle Rodriguez and her three sons.
“Excited, finally excited," Rodriguez said. "We drive by the park and we see you know construction starting, cleaning up starting so we're counting the days,” Rodriguez said.
Kurz tells CBS 8 that an additional amenity is slated to be on the City Council agenda next Tuesday for consideration.
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