Tiles Delay Ocean Beach Gateway Project

The City of San Diego Engineering website describes the North Ocean Beach Gateway Project as "a park incorporating a decorative plaza that provides pedestrian access into the adjacent Robb Field Community Park. The improvement will also act as a "Gateway" for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians entering Ocean Beach from the north.

But after several months of ongoing construction and heavy equipment noise, the project still remains in an unfinished state.

So far, palm tree landscaping, a three-foot stone wall, a new walkway and light fixtures have been installed. But the Gateway remains incomplete, and curious Ocean Beach residents and neighbors are wondering what the hold-up is.

According to Councilman Kevin Falconer's representative, Michael Patton, the project stalled due to problems with memorial tiles that were ordered but are not strong enough to allow for engraving. The Peninsula Beacon newspaper quoted Patton as promising "new, sturdier tiles are on the way." However, additional monies may be needed to put the finishing touches on the Ocean Beach Gateway. An estimated figure of $219,000 was suggested by Falconer's rep as being necessary to complete the project.