The De Anza Natural amendment to the Mission Bay Park Master Plan that expands wetlands while relocating camping areas and adding public recreational facilities was unanimously approved by the City Council on Tuesday.
“The unanimous approval of the De Anza Natural amendment marks a significant milestone in our years-long effort to preserve and enhance one of San Diego’s most beloved recreational areas,” said Mayor Todd Gloria.
“This plan will not only restore vital wetland habitats, but also ensure that De Anza Cove remains a vibrant space for recreation, low-cost visitor accommodations and environmental education for generations to come,” he said.
The areas in the plan include the site of several hundred abandoned mobile homes that sat for years and were demolished in 2023.
“We know how important De Anza Cove is to San Diegans, and we want to plan for its long-term success with enhanced wetland habitat and exciting opportunities for people to continue to stay and play in this beloved corner of Mission Bay,” said City Planning Director Heidi Vonblum after the vote.
“We look forward to seeing De Anza Natural come to life with a balance of recreational uses and the wetland habitat, all while preparing for the effects of climate change,” she said.
The plan includes a multi-use waterfront trail, a nature center and a small non-motorized boat area on the cove, along with golf facilities, tennis courts and ball fields. A smaller area for camping and recreational-vehicle facilities will remain.
Opponents of the plan had sought more extensive restoration of the wetlands at the north end of Mission Bay.
Before the amendment becomes fully effective, it will need to be certified by the California Coastal Commission.