Reconnecting San Diego
Our vision is to heal the divide created by Interstate 5, reconnecting neighborhoods and communities through innovative infrastructure solutions that create new public spaces and restore the urban fabric of our city.
Our Vision for Connection
We envision a San Diego where Interstate 5 no longer divides but connects—where innovative infrastructure solutions create new opportunities for community, recreation, and economic growth while addressing the environmental and social impacts of urban highways.
The Green The Gap Study Area - East Village
Left: Current state showing Interstate 5 as a barrier between downtown, East Village, and historic neighborhoods to the south. Right: Our vision with a freeway lid and new open space that reconnects neighborhoods and creates a continuous green corridor.
The Green The Gap Study Area - Balboa
Left: Current state showing the freeway dividing Balboa Park and surrounding neighborhoods. Right: Our vision with a freeway lid creating continuous green space and reconnecting communities.
Iconic Gateways
Spectacular views and plazas activated with public art, cultural and historic interpretive panels.
Smart Parking Solutions
Central Mesa parking solutions using West Mesa parking resources to reduce congestion.
More Visitors, Less Cars
Greater number of visitors using the park without parking needs through improved transit connections.
Activate Underutilized Areas
Adding non-vehicular users to underutilized and non-activated park areas for community engagement.
Innovative Solutions
Freeway Lids: Creating Parks Above Traffic
Freeway lids are engineered structures that cover sections of highway, creating new developable land above. These innovative solutions transform unused airspace into vibrant public spaces, parks, and community amenities.
Urban Park Creation
Transform highway corridors into green spaces that serve surrounding communities.
Mixed-Use Development
Combine residential, commercial, and recreational uses on reclaimed land.
Community Amenities
Provide essential services and gathering spaces for neighborhood residents.
Pedestrian and Cycling Bridges: Safe Connections
Dedicated pedestrian and cycling bridges provide safe, accessible crossings over Interstate 5, connecting communities while creating opportunities for active transportation and recreation.
Safe Pedestrian Access
Enable safe crossing for people of all ages and abilities.
Active Transportation
Support cycling and walking as viable transportation options.
Architectural Integration
Design bridges that enhance the urban landscape and community identity.
Local Success: Teralta Park
Bridging Communities in San Diego
Right here in San Diego, Teralta Park demonstrates how thoughtful infrastructure can reconnect divided communities. This park was built over I-15 freeway, creating a bridge between the Corridor and Teralta West that were previously separated by the freeway.
New public space created over existing freeway
Reconnected Corridor and Teralta West neighborhoods
Provides playground and community gathering space
Demonstrates the feasibility of freeway lid projects in San Diego
How Our Neighbors Are Doing It
Learning from Success Stories
Throughout the nation and the world, communities are engaged in similar efforts. Perhaps the best California example is "Hollywood Central Park" covering US 101 with a 38-acre deck park currently progressing through Environmental Impact Review (EIR) and the planning approval process.
Community engagement and collaborative planning
Public-private partnerships for funding and implementation
Phased approach to development and construction
Advocacy and education to build broad-based support
Join Us in Building a Connected San Diego
Our vision requires community support, advocacy, and collaboration. Together, we can transform Interstate 5 from a barrier into a bridge that connects our neighborhoods and strengthens our city.