San Diego is celebrating a positive development as the City has finalized an agreement with SeaWorld regarding unpaid lease payments, leading to a significant investment in local parks. Approved by the San Diego City Council on June 24, the City will allocate nearly $8 million towards various park enhancement projects, including substantial upgrades at Robb Field in Ocean Beach.
The funding stems from a legal settlement with SeaWorld related to lease payments dating back to 2020. The investment will not only benefit Robb Field—where $3.6 million will be used to replace aging restrooms and playground equipment—but also several other locations throughout San Diego.
Mayor Todd Gloria emphasized the importance of this funding for the community. “San Diegans have been asking for new bathrooms, safer playgrounds, and upgraded facilities—and that’s exactly what we’re delivering,” he stated. The projects aim to enhance the safety and cleanliness of city parks, benefiting both residents and visitors alike.
In addition to the immediate improvements at Robb Field, the settlement with SeaWorld—totaling $8.5 million—will also support various projects within the Mission Bay Park Improvement Fund and San Diego Regional Park Improvement Fund. This ensures that investments will target areas already in design or construction, enhancing community enjoyment and accessibility.
Projects highlighted include basketball court improvements at South De Anza, restroom updates at Dusty Rhodes, and historical restorations at locations like the Rancho Peñasquitos Equestrian Center. Construction for some projects is expected to begin as early as July 2025, showing a commitment to revitalizing public spaces across San Diego.
This agreement marks a hopeful turn as San Diego channels these funds into beneficial community projects, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents while also addressing long-standing needs in city parks.