$700M transformation planned for the San Diego River

A new plan by San Diego County and city officials could transform the San Diego River into a regional attraction.

The plan would add bike paths, riverfront dinning and other amenities along both sides of the river.

The long-term vision from officials, would develop the river from Ocean Beach, Mission Valley and all the way through the mountains, as far inland as Julian.

"This is a really exciting opportunity," said Nathan Fletcher, San Diego County Chair.

The $700 million plan envisions a trail system that would run from the mountains to the ocean, adding more pathways for pedestrians and bicyclists and creating parks and riverfront dinning.

"You can see so much of San Diego has to offer, it will be a national treasure," added Fletcher.

Fletcher is spearheading the efforts for the county to move forward with the plan. He says, the county and city have agreed to a new financing plan that would pay for it without a tax increase. It involves establishing an enhanced infrastructure financing district that would bring in money to help execute the river park master plan.

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