Rudy Zdelaya

Synopsis: The Chula Vista Bayfront represents one of the most ambitious waterfront transformation efforts in the United States. Spanning more than 500 acres and supported by over $1.5 billion in public and private investment, the program is transforming a former industrial waterfront into a world-class destination through a decades-long partnership led by the Port of San Diego. What was once home to aging industrial uses and the South Bay Power Plant is evolving into a vibrant waterfront anchored by the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center, award-winning public parks, regional recreation destinations, future mixed-use development, restored public access, and critical infrastructure investments that will serve generations to come.

This session will explore the leadership, partnerships, permitting, and infrastructure strategies that made the transformation possible, including complex coastal and environmental entitlements, multi-agency coordination, public-private partnership delivery, habitat stewardship, major roadway and utility improvements, and long-term implementation across multiple phases. As ports around the world seek to strengthen their connection to surrounding communities while preserving long-term economic vitality, the Chula Vista Bayfront offers a compelling blueprint for shaping the next generation waterfront.