SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - For the first time in decades, the Port of San Diego is putting forth a comprehensive update to its master plan.
A port spokesperson says the effort began in 2013 and has been a very thoughtful and open process.
However, some residents in the county are just learning about the plan. In April, the Port published a more than 300-page draft of the master plan.
"Ninety percent of the people that we speak to had no idea that this plan had been put forth. We have been out at the local grocery stores, going door-to-door, we've been posting here on the path because these are the places where we're going to reach the people who use this area the most," said Cameron Lilley, a lifelong Point Loma resident.
Lilley has significant concerns with Shelter Island proposals, including:
- Up to 1600 new hotel rooms
- 70,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space
- Removing private and historic docks
"Parking is a huge issue already, bringing more tourism to this area will negatively impact the residents who live and use it," said Lilley.
On Tuesday she was joined by family and friends at La Playa Trail, encouraging people to give feedback to the Port by the July 31 deadline. They've created a group, Save Point Loma, to try and educate the community.
"We're all out here united in this cause," said Lilley.
The Port says it has been very transparent throughout the entire process, not only making the draft available to the public but holding community meetings.
A spokesperson tells 10News they've used social media, the radio, and community paper ads to try and get people involved.
And the Port says it wants to hear from the community moving forward. After receiving initial feedback, they will continue to hold community meetings and will later put forth a revised draft.
The comment period for the Master Plan draft goes through July 31. Comments can be emailed to the Port of San Diego at PMPU@portofsandiego.org.
Final approval of the plan isn't expected until late 2020.
