What happened to the Gaslamp promenade?
San Diego Union-Tribune • • business
Key Points:
- The Gaslamp Promenade, a pedestrian area in downtown San Diego, was eliminated in early 2025 due to funding cuts and now faces an uncertain future after voters rejected a sales tax hike in 2024.
- Downtown merchants and city officials agree the promenade has potential to revitalize the Gaslamp district and attract more tourists, but the estimated $65 million cost for planned upgrades is currently unaffordable for the financially strained city.
- The initial bare-bones version of the promenade improved walkability and hotel revenues but had mixed reviews from some businesses and law enforcement due to increased late-night disturbances and traffic issues.
- Mayor Todd Gloria acknowledges the promenade’s potential revenue benefits but prioritizes urgent infrastructure needs like pipe repairs, emphasizing that any future expansion
