Harbor Drive Pedestrian Bridge Opens to Little Fanfare

After nearly three years of construction, the $26.8 million Harbor Drive Pedestrian Bridge, connecting Petco Park to the convention center, opened to foot traffic on Friday, March 18. The 550-foot-long suspension bridge lies at the intersection of Harbor Drive and Park Boulevard and passes over six lanes of traffic and multiple train lines. The Public Utilities Commission required the bridge after streets were reconfigured around Petco Park.

However, the project did have its share of hang-ups since construction began in October 2008. In 2005, the total cost was estimated to be just under $13 million. And despite the increased price tag, construction delays occurred. The completion date had been set for November of 2009 but was delayed after the bridge was built heavier than initially planned, requiring crews to install new suspension cables.

CCDC oversaw the project and was the largest funding source, paying $11.1 million in redevelopment funds. Other sources included Caltrans, as well as some state and federal funding sources.

"With its important proximity to the waterfront, convention center, Petco Park, and Gaslamp Quarter, the bridge should be iconic as well as functional," was the statement from CCDC.

Iconic as it may be, the opening occurred with little fanfare. Within an hour after the announcement from CCDC, only a few people could be seen traversing the 16-foot wide suspension bridge.

CCDC says special activities are planned for the San Diego Padres first home game on April 5.