Port of San Diego, National City, and Community Members Celebrate Pepper Park Ribbon Cutting
Contact: Gabriella Rodriguez, 619.904.2137, grodriguez@portofsandiego.org
The Port of San Diego and the City of National City, along with partners, stakeholders, and community members, celebrated new public amenities now open in Pepper Park, including a splash pad and pirate-themed playground, during a ribbon cutting ceremony on March 19, 2026. The approximately $8 million dollar Pepper Park Phase 1 Improvements Project also added a relaxing shaded sand area, an overlook/terrace, a hillside play area, picnic area, a new entry plaza, new lighting, landscaping, and more.
“This investment transforms a beloved community space into a vibrant waterfront destination where families can gather and children can play,” said Chair Ann Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “By improving recreational amenities and creating the Port’s first splash pad, we are delivering on our commitment to enhance public access to the waterfront and ensure the National City Bayfront continues to thrive for generations to come.”
“For decades, Pepper Park has been one of the South Bay’s hidden gems, many residents didn’t even know it was here,” said Mayor Ron Morrison, City of National City. “With these new improvements, including the splash pad, pirate-themed playground, and expanded spaces for families to gather and enjoy the waterfront, Pepper Park will no longer be a hidden gem. It will be a destination where our community can come together and create lasting memories.”
Often referred to as one of San Diego County’s hidden gems, Pepper Park is quickly becoming a go-to spot for locals. In fact, Pepper Park was recently named among the top 31 open spaces recommended by San Diegans in the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Renovations to the 5.2-acre park began in September 2024 as part of the Port’s efforts to upgrade and expand recreational amenities on the National City Bayfront for all visitors and residents. The project was funded by 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.
“The improvements and new amenities National City long dreamed of are now a reality,” said Commissioner GilAnthony Ungab, M.D., National City’s appointee to the Board of Port Commissioners. “This marks just the beginning of what I and all those who have visited this hidden gem have long known – Pepper Park is the catalyst for endless possibilities along National City’s waterfront. I look forward to the many memories that will be made at our beloved Pepper Park.”
“When my kids were young, we’d drive to other cities just to find a splash pad,” said National City Councilmember Luz Molina. “Today, National City has a world-class bayfront park, built with extensive community input. From the splash pad to the pirate playground and perched beach, this is where the next generation will make memories for a lifetime. With phase 1 complete, the best is still ahead, and I know the community’s voice will continue to shape every step of our bayfront’s future.”
The Port’s partnership with National City, stakeholders, and the community guided every step of this effort. Between 2016 and 2022, the Port and consultants held numerous rounds of workshops and public meetings to give community members the opportunity to tell the Port what they envisioned for the park. The reimagined Pepper Park is the community’s vision made into reality.
This is just the first phase of improvements planned for Pepper Park. A future 2.5-acre expansion is included in the National City Balanced Plan but is dependent on funding. Proposed improvements for the extended park include a new nature play area, an expanded waterfront promenade, larger picnic and lawn areas, expanded parking, a flex plaza, and more. As updates are available on the National City Balanced Plan, information will be posted on the Port’s website at portofsandiego.org/nationalcitybayfront.
Public Celebration
A public celebration for the reimagined park and National City Balanced Plan is being held at Pepper Park during the Port’s “A Day at the Park” event on April 4, 2026 as part of the Port’s Tidelands Activation Program. More details are available at portofsandiego.org/events/port-events/day-park-pepper-park.
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.