We understand as well as anyone about the City’s need to address budget shortfalls. In fact, as we celebrate our 151st anniversary and our 108th year in Balboa Park, we are embarking on a costly project to replace the roof on our City-owned building—at our own expense. Although we would rather devote the $7 million toward other parts of our mission, there is nothing more important than the safety of our people and our collections.
We are concerned about the implementation of paid parking and how it will affect the millions of people who visit the Park each year, precisely because the Park is a free amenity with space to enjoy the outdoors. Our own dedication to free amenities is borne out in programs like Free Tuesday and Museums for All that provide no-cost admission for more than 50,000 people annually. It is also evident in our native gardens—designed, installed, and maintained at our own expense—and free to all Park visitors. Paid parking puts this access at risk.
We are also alarmed by the impact on safety and accessibility. Provisions for free parking in the Park’s more remote lots are not practical for families with young children, seniors, or anyone with mobility limitations. Tram service will not come close to our corner of the Central Mesa, leaving a significant gap in access. Even a short distance can be a challenge for those using strollers, wheelchairs, or other mobility tools- especially on uneven surfaces and during our hottest months.
We are equally concerned about security risks and limited lighting in remote lots. With nearly 400,000 visitors a year, 200 staff members, and 500 volunteers, any on-call cart service is likely to be inadequate.
As a fiscally responsible non-profit and as part of San Diego’s civic fabric, we are appreciative of City services and supportive of the need to close budget gaps. At the same time, we urge careful consideration of how this policy will create unintended consequences, including discouraging visitation, limiting equitable access, and introducing new safety concerns. The push to generate revenue must not come at the expense of those who can no longer afford to enjoy San Diego’s crown jewel.
Posted by The Nat.
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