Turning parking lots into paradise

Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is one phase of several for the transformation of the waterfront/Little Italy area in downtown San Diego. Assemblyman Ron Roberts, former architect, hatched this project to bring a community feel to one of the city’s most visited areas. As the most significant waterfront open space in downtown San Diego, the park surrounds the historic 1920s Art Deco county administration building that was previously flanked with two asphalt parking lots.

There are several components to the project including underground parking, long water fountain splash pools, state-of-the-art playground, native plant gardens, concessions, venue space for events and concerts, and public restrooms. We implemented the lighting concept of the architect, and provided electrical and utility design and technology systems for the new eight-acre park that has a series of landscaped "rooms" suitable for private parties and informal gatherings, picnics, and music events.

Working closely with the bridging architects, the general contractor, and the county, we helped bring the vision to life for this community. It has become a delightful transition between the hustle and bustle of Little Italy and the scenic San Diego waterfront.