Monday, Feb. 5, 2007 | I heartily commend County Supervisor Ron Roberts and former state Senator Steve Peace on their effortsto spur some forward thinking about the future development of the San Diego-area bayfront.
From San Diego down to Chula Vista, our waterfront is indeed a “crown jewel,” a “front porch,” and the many other descriptions and superlatives that are assigned to this natural wonder.
I have made known my lack of support for the proposed redevelopment plan for the Navy Broadway Complex (NBC). I believe the Navy-Manchester plan for NBC unwisely left the wishes of residents and taxpayers unmet.
I also agree with those who say now is the right time to move the dirty, outdated power plant on the Chula Vista waterfront to another location, opening up that land for uses more in tune with the beauty of the bay.
We don’t have to support every last detail of the Roberts-Peace vision, but at least they have come up with a bold set of thoughtful ideas to guide those who care about the future of the tidelands area.
Ironically, Doug Manchester is right to say, though, that the Roberts-Peace proposal has come late in the game. As the ill-conceived NBC redevelopment plan shows, we have very little time to waste in deciding what we want for our waterfront and adjacent areas.
In addition to the near-perfect climate, our wonderful water resources are a prime reason I choose to live in San Diego. Let’s do the right thing — now — so that future generations can also enjoy this natural beauty.