San Diego Launched Balboa Park Master Plan Update
The city has initiated a two-year planning process to address significant infrastructure needs at the 1,200-acre landmark.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in National Parks
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San Diego has started an effort to update the Balboa Park Master Plan, which has not been significantly revised since 1989. The city aims to address an estimated infrastructure maintenance backlog of up to $1 billion.
Why it matters
Updating the master plan is essential to address the park's mounting maintenance needs and improve its long-term economic sustainability. The city is exploring revenue generation through commercial uses to fund these necessary repairs.
The park spans 1,200 acres and contains 118 buildings, including 21 cultural institutions and 17 specialized gardens. Officials secured $2 million in grant funding to support the planning process.
The players
WRT Planning + Design
This firm was hired by the city to serve as the consultant for the Balboa Park master plan update.
Prebys Foundation
This organization provided grant funding to assist with the city's park planning efforts.
The details
The city has hired WRT Planning + Design as a consultant to navigate the update, which will consider 61 prioritized projects identified in a March 2025 framework. While city charter rules prohibit housing on the land, officials are evaluating potential revenue from restaurants and hotel uses.
Timeline
1835: The area was first reserved as open space.
1989: The existing comprehensive master plan was adopted.
2016: A maintenance backlog was assessed at $203 million.
March 2025: A consultant released a project prioritization framework.
2028: City Council approval of the new plan is projected.
Travel Outlook
The master plan update must operate within the strict constraints of the San Diego City Charter, which bans housing on designated park land. This limits revenue strategies compared to parks in other cities that utilize mixed-use development.
Visitors should note that parking fees currently imposed at the park are scheduled to conclude at the end of 2026. Residents are encouraged to participate in the online survey hosted by the city to provide feedback on future site improvements.
The takeaway
The master plan process serves as a critical step toward stabilizing the long-term financial health of one of the city's most visited landmarks. Residents can influence the future of park amenities by engaging with the city's ongoing public outreach survey.
What happens next
The city plans to release a draft update document in late 2027, followed by an expected City Council approval process in 2028.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to manage green spaces in our National Parks section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by San Diego Union-Tribune.
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