Glide control to Torrey Pines

The 6.74-acre Torrey Pines Gliderport, a longtime hotspot for confrontations between videographer Bob Kuczewski and gliderport leaseholder Robin Marien over what Kuczewski has alleged are unsafe practices at the city-owned facility, is up for a change of control.

“The City of San Diego is requesting proposals from qualified firms or individuals to develop, operate, lease and use City-owned property commonly known as the Torrey Pines Gliderport located at 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive within the Torrey Pines City Park”, says an open-ended July 20 request for proposals for redevelopment of the site issued by the city, with responses due by August 30. “Proposals must include a conceptual development plan for the Property, along with the proposed changes or additions to the existing facilities.”

Adds the notice, “the use of the Property shall be limited to the operation and maintenance of a gliderport; use by non-powered aircraft and radio-controlled models (take-off and over-flight); sale of hang gliding, paragliding, and sailplane parts and accessories; sale of related merchandise; operation of a small food retail site (café); and incidental purposes as may be first approved in writing by the City.”

Proposed annual rent for the iconic locale, a major player in the city’s tourist promotions, is $3412 on a ten-year-or-greater lease, with the selected proprietor to pick up all costs for operations and insurance. “The City is also issuing a Request for Information to discover opportunities for various business endeavors or fundraising opportunities, sponsorships or programs that will assist in preserving the Property including financing and development of the Property.”

Adds the document, “Currently there is no on-site water, sewer or electrical service at the Property. If feasible, water, sewer and solar-powered electrical service may be installed at the Property, at the selected Proposer’s sole cost and expense.”