The drama over Earth Day at Balboa Park can finally be put to rest.

One day after Superior Court Judge Timothy Taylor struck down the controversial Plaza de Panama project, Mayor Bob Filner announced the annual Earth Fair is back on.

“Initially, the City offered a permit for a different location at Balboa Park for Earth Fair 2013 because of safety concerns of the planned construction project," read a statement from Mayor Filner's office. "But in light of the ruling on Plaza de Panama, that is no longer a concern and I am happy to announce Earth Fair 2013 will occur in the heart of the park, once their permit is complete.”

The announcement comes after more than a year of tense negotiations between Earth Day organizer Carolyn Chase and the City. City officials first denied the permits due to the massive park overhaul proposed by Irwin Jacobs-led Plaza de Panama Committee. They said the construction would not only create safety hazards but would put a strain on museums and businesses in the park.

Judging by his statement, it appears as if the Mayor was relieved to put the issue behind him.

"I love the Earth Fair! I am looking forward to celebrating with all San Diegans."

-- http://www.sandiegoreader.com/weblogs/news-ticker/2013/jan/04/city-denies-permits-to-san-diegos-annual-earth-day/

-- http://www.sandiegoreader.com/weblogs/news-ticker/2013/jan/07/filner-sticks-to-staff-decision-to-deny-earth-day-/

-- http://www.sandiegoreader.com/weblogs/news-ticker/2013/jan/22/residents-oppose-moving-large-scale-events-like-ea/

--http://www.sandiegoreader.com/weblogs/news-ticker/2013/jan/04/city-denies-permits-to-san-diegos-annual-earth-day/