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Council approves roughly $9 million increase to Normal Street Promenade budget
Summary
San Diego’s City Council unanimously approved a budget increase for the Normal Street Promenade (CIP 22012) after staff said bids came in about $9 million above the engineer's estimate; the project, tied to SANDAG bikeway work and Pride Plaza, will proceed with city and SANDAG coordination.
The San Diego City Council on Sept. 9 approved a budget increase to move forward on the Normal Street Promenade and associated Hillcrest promenade work, voting unanimously, 8–0 (Councilmember Campbell absent). Staff said higher-than-expected construction bids raised the city’s share by roughly $9 million and brought the total project cost to about $26 million.
Everett Hauser of the Transportation Department summarized the scope and funding context, saying bids opened in June were “higher than the engineer’s estimate by approximately $9,000,000,” and that SANDAG is scheduled to award the package in September. Hauser said the increase is needed now so SANDAG can finish bid awards and the city can allocate its portion to allow construction to begin.
Supporters said the promenade has long community backing: Benjamin Nichols, executive director of the Hillcrest Business Association, said the promenade and Pride Plaza are central community gathering spaces and urged full funding. Several speakers noted the project was in planning documents decades ago.
Opponents and concerned residents urged fiscal caution. Matt Wahlstrom described the $9 million increase as a 42% rise over previous cost estimates and criticized using city funds to make up overruns; Kathleen Lippitt and others asked whether the item should be postponed while the city addresses other post‑flood priorities. Council members acknowledged the increase reflects updated bids and national construction cost pressures and emphasized oversight to ensure the city is not being overcharged. Councilmember Woodburn moved to support the staff recommendation and Councilmember Von Wilpert seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
Councilmembers also confirmed the project will maintain community features including a shortened rainbow crosswalk and will coordinate closely with SANDAG on scope. Staff said elements include streetscape improvements, restoration and placement of a historic trolley car, sewer work, curb extensions, traffic calming, and bikeway connections in Eastern Hillcrest.
