San Diego Association of Environmental Professionals Honors the Port of San Diego with Three Awards for Outstanding Public Involvement, Environmental Analysis, and Planning

The Port of San Diego has been recognized by the San Diego Chapter of the Association of Environmental Professionals for outstanding public involvement, environmental analysis, and planning. The Port accepted honors in these categories during the AEP San Diego Chapter's 2024 Awards and Scholarships Banquet on October 9. AEP San Diego is one of the largest chapters in California, covering San Diego and Imperial Counties. Its mission is to enhance, maintain and protect the quality of the natural and human environment.

"The peer recognition by AEP San Diego rewards and celebrates the Port of San Diego's commitment to inclusive, sustainable development shaped by robust public involvement," said Chairman Frank Urtasun, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. "With the help of our communities and partners, we are ensuring our dynamic waterfront and the bay's ecosystems are thriving and healthy for generations to come."

The following are highlights of each award:

Public Involvement: Port initiatives like the Port Master Plan Update (PMPU) and the Pepper Park Improvements project ensure the voices of the community, particularly those from disadvantaged and marginalized groups, are heard in shaping the future of San Diego Bay. The PMPU, the first major update to the Port Master Plan since 1981, represents a comprehensive 30-year vision for Port Tidelands. Launched in 2013, the PMPU was developed through an Integrated Planning approach-a multi-faceted, collaborative process considering economic, social, and cultural opportunities. With a focus on community-focused waterfront development through inclusive and innovative public engagement, the PMPU has involved 21 public events, nearly 500 stakeholder meetings, and over 40 public Board hearings. Similarly, the Pepper Park Improvements project engaged the public through workshops, surveys, and pop-up events, fostering widespread community involvement in National City's waterfront redesign. In conjunction with the PMPU, the Port's innovative community initiatives, like the Portside Community Academy, educate residents about the Port's clean air and electrification projects, further demonstrating its commitment to environmental justice and community collaboration.

Environmental Analysis: Rooted in principles such as clean air, healthy communities, and environmental justice, the PMPU includes goals and policies aimed at protecting San Diego Bay's natural environment. A key component is the PMPU Final Program Environmental Impact Report (PEIR), which provides a concise, direct assessment of the environmental consequences of the plan. Strategies include conserving sensitive habitats, promoting water and air quality, and encouraging nature-based shoreline solutions. One unique aspect of the environmental analysis is the Sea Level Rise (SLR) section, which creates a framework for addressing long-term climate risks. Additionally, the Port commissioned a Passing Vessel Study to evaluate the impact of increased boat activity on sensitive eelgrass habitats. Supporting consulting firms Ascent Environmental and Ridgeline Environmental received the award alongside the Port.

Planning: The PMPU serves as a comprehensive resource for all users and stakeholders, considering both maritime and non-maritime uses on San Diego Bay. The document is user-friendly, focusing on graphic design to ensure accessibility for a wide range of stakeholders. The PMPU's organization is unique in that it comprises Elements, Baywide Development Standards, and Planning Districts, that together establish comprehensive guidance for Tidelands. The PMPU Elements function similar to a City or County's General Plan Elements and include goals and policies for topics such as Water and Land Use, Mobility, Safety and Resiliency, Ecology, Environmental Justice, and Economics. Overall, it prioritizes environmental sustainability, public engagement, and collaboration with regional and state partners, aiming to safeguard San Diego Bay's natural resources while fostering responsible development and inclusive community participation. Supporting consulting firms Nexus Planning & Research, Ascent Environmental, Civitas, Intersecting Metrics, and Chen Ryan Associates received the award alongside the Port.