The Port of San Diego, Caltrans (the California Department of Transportation) and SANDAG (the San Diego Association of Governments) have entered into an agreement that would allow them to fund and advance two projects that seek to help improve cargo movement and public access.
San Digo’s Port Commission announced Feb. 15 that it approved the collaborative agreement and about $2.2 million in funding for the Harbor Drive 2.0 and Vesta Bridge projects.
The project is being funded by the port and Caltrans, which in June was awarded an $18.5 million grant from the California Transportation Commission through its Trade Corridor Enhancement Program.
The agreement allows for the funds to be transferred to SANDAG, the lead implementing agency. The trio also plans to work together to fund project construction.
The $20.7 million would go toward project design and right-of-way improvements to Harbor Drive 2.0 and Vesta Bridge, according to the port.
Harbor Drive 2.0 aims to enhance the portion of Harbor Drive between the port’s two cargo terminals by improving the truck route and the pedestrian, bicycle and transit connectivity. A bridge also would be constructed over Harbor Drive to allow for Naval Base San Diego traffic on Vesta Street within the base to go over Harbor Drive.
“This project is a shining example of regional collaboration for the betterment of a key arterial within our transportation system,” Frank Urtasun, chairman of the port’s Board of Port Commissioners said. “Together with Caltrans and SANDAG, we continue to help our communities by reducing trucks in their streets, improving public health and overall quality of life.”
Design of the project is set to start this spring, with construction planned for 2028 and completion by 2030, the port said.
