The Port of San Diego has initiated a public comment period for a significant redevelopment of East Harbor Island, aiming to transform the area into a major entertainment destination. The proposal, which includes a large waterfront park and an entertainment district anchored by Topgolf, is currently under review through a Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR).
The public has until August 24 to provide feedback on the project. If approved, the redevelopment would repurpose land currently used for surface parking, rental car operations, and airport construction support into a premiere coastal attraction located across from the airport and adjacent to the Harbor Police Headquarters.
Plans for the 10.1-acre waterfront park include a promenade, plazas, playgrounds, restrooms, and public art installations. Adjacent to the park, a 16.5-acre entertainment district is proposed. Topgolf is set to occupy 9.8 acres within this district with its driving range and arcade concept. The remaining area is designated for future "eatertainment" venues to be selected through a public bidding process.
To manage increased visitor traffic, the proposal also involves infrastructure upgrades. These include realigning Liberator Way, adding new public parking facilities, constructing sidewalks, implementing planting buffers, and reconfiguring nearby intersections.
Officials have stressed that no final decisions have been made. The feedback gathered during the current public comment window will inform the Final EIR. Both the environmental report and a proposed amendment to the Port Master Plan are anticipated to be presented to the Board of Port Commissioners for a vote in late 2026. A lease agreement option for the Topgolf facility is also expected to be considered at that time. The draft EIR is accessible online for public review.