Pepper Park Construction Update
Contact: Gabriella Rodriguez, 619.904.2137, grodriguez@portofsandiego.org
Construction at Pepper Park continues with some additional temporary closures as crews work to make improvements to the park. Starting July 28, 2025, the park’s restrooms and fishing pier will be closed for two weeks and are scheduled to reopen on August 11, 2025. Portable restrooms will be available for those who visit the park during this time. Signs near the fishing pier will direct visitors to the next nearest fishing piers. These closures are in addition to the playground closure which began on July 23, 2025.
The remaining construction schedule will be as follows:
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August 11, 2025 – restrooms and pier are scheduled to reopen.
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August 15, 2025 – closures of the park will expand to include the current green open space located at the northwest portion of the park (highlighted in green on the map above). This closure will remain in place until construction is completed.
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August 15, 2025 – the sidewalk along the south side of the park leading to the pier and turf area will reopen and be accessible to the public.
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Early 2026 – Pepper Park is scheduled to reopen.
The project is part of the Pepper Park Phase 1 Improvements Project, which aims to enhance recreational amenities on the National City Bayfront. Once completed, the redesigned 5.2-acre park will feature the first splash pad at a Port of San Diego park, among other upgrades.
The Port broke ground on Phase 1 in September 2024. Since then, construction crews have been working on the $8 million improvement project, which includes:
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A pirate-themed playground
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A splash pad
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A perched beach
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An overlook and terrace
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A hillside play area
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A new entry plaza
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A picnic area
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New lighting and landscaping
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Additional park amenities
The redesigned park and first phase improvements are a result of multiple rounds of public outreach between 2016 and 2022.
Construction closures have been done in phases with areas of the park not under construction open to the public. The boat launch ramp will be open throughout the entire construction process. Signs in the park help inform the public about the construction schedule and any future closures that may be needed to complete the park improvements.
The project is funded by a combination of Port, federal and state funds, including $4.35 million received via the American Rescue Plan Act and the State of California’s Coronavirus Fiscal Recovery Fund, along with a $250,000 contribution from Port tenant Austal USA.
A future 2.5-acre expansion of the park is planned when more funding is available and other approvals are completed. Future improvements to the extended park include a new nature play area, an expanded waterfront promenade, larger picnic and lawn areas, expanded parking, a plaza, and more. Updated information will also be posted on the Port’s website at portofsandiego.org/nationalcitybayfront.
About THE Port of San Diego
The Port of San Diego serves the people of California as a specially created district, balancing multiple uses on 34 miles along San Diego Bay spanning five cities. Collecting no tax dollars, the Port manages a diverse portfolio to generate revenues that support vital public services and amenities.
The Port champions Maritime, Waterfront Development, Public Safety, Experiences and Environment, all focused on enriching the relationship people and businesses have with our dynamic waterfront. From cargo and cruise terminals to hotels and restaurants, from marinas to museums, from 23 public parks to countless events, the Port contributes to the region’s prosperity and remarkable way of life on a daily basis.
About Port of San Diego Waterfront Development
Port of San Diego Waterfront Development contributes to the continuous prosperity of the local economy.
From Real Estate to Aquaculture and Blue Tech, the Port invests in major redevelopment and community infrastructure, so businesses in our region have the opportunity to stay competitive in the global marketplace.