As the Port of San Diego continues its redevelopment of the Chula Vista Bayfront, a vision for Sweetwater Park is sprouting — a new public amenity designed to give locals prime access to the natural beauty of San Diego Bay.
The Port Board recently awarded a $12,543,730 contract to 3-D Enterprises, Inc. to build the park north of the under-construction Gaylord Pacific Resort and Convention Center. Work is set to begin this month, and the Port expects the park to debut before the resort, which is eyeing a summer 2025 opening.
The Port says Sweetwater Park will aim to connect locals with nature and highlight the “unique wildlife assets” of San Diego Bay, complementing the nearby Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge.
🌾 Visitors can expect:
- Mounded grasslands, sand dunes, meadows, and gardens featuring native plants — some of which may be used as buffers to protect sensitive habitats
- Nature-focused playgrounds
- Seating, picnic areas, restrooms, public art, and overlooks perfect for views of the bay
- Pedestrian and bike paths
- 216 parking spaces
KTUA will design the park, the local firm behind projects like North Park Mini Park, Southcrest Trails Park, and Canyonlands City Heights Trail.
In a press release, Commissioner Ann Moore said the rec space will be “unlike any other park we have on our bayfront.”
Sweetwater Park is just one piece of the redevelopment puzzle approved in 2012. When it’s completed, the 535-acre Chula Vista Bayfront project will boast 200+ acres of parks, trails, and open space — plus the hotel and new shopping and dining options, all meant to reactivate the area for locals and visitors.
Keep in mind, construction is impacting access to some bayfront areas and businesses in phases, so expect road closures and detours for the next few years.
