The upcoming Horton Plaza Park in the Gaslamp Quarter will become Downtown’s prime civic space…if it ever opens. Westfield will manage the city-owned plaza, where around 200 events will be held each year, once construction completes in 2015.
The park will feature an interactive fountain, an amphitheater, and a few food pavilions. It may not sound like a big deal, but it’s the kind of public space that contributes to a healthy urban neighborhood—where cultures come together, friends run into each other, and celebrations are held.
Originally set to open this spring, the project is about a year behind schedule. Officials broke ground and began demolishing the old Robinsons-May department store building in November 2012.
This poster went up during the 15 minutes that QR codes were a thing. Note the “Opening 2015” update they plastered over the original “2014” date.
We’re hoping the new Horton Plaza Park encourages more cleanup in the area. The Gaslamp Quarter is supposed to be among the top attractions for San Diego visitors, but we think it could use a good scrub down. Not our favorite part of Downtown.
When it opens, the new plaza should be a vibrant gem in the middle of the Gaslamp. Although it’s taking longer than anticipated, we’re sure this will be a great thing for the area.