A Trail System that Enhances Recreational Opportunities, Provides Connections and Supports Environmental Conservation 

The Citywide Trails Master Plan was identified in the Parks Master Plan as a critical implementation item. This plan will guide the equitable and environmentally responsible development, enhancement and construction of existing and new trails throughout the city. The Master Plan will also guide its close interaction and synergy with open space planning and conservation, in compliance with the City’s Multiple Species Conservation Program. In addition to trails within the City’s open space, the Trails Master Plan will also include urban pathways and other community connections.

Partially Grant Funded: California Coastal Commission - Local Coastal Program Local Assistance Grant

Projected Completion: 2027

Strategic Plan Priority Areas of Focus

This initiative focuses on the following priority areas of the Strategic Plan:

Protect & Enrich Every Neighborhood

Trails in both open spaces and developed urban areas provide opportunities for healthy enjoyment and transportation, as well as connections within and between all communities.


Champion Sustainability

Ensuring the protection of sensitive open space areas, while identifying compatible walking/rolling and biking connections not only protects our plants and animals but also provides more healthy and active ways to move around our city.

Vision

Jogger at Robb Field

More than just a blueprint for trails, the Trails Master Plan will serve as a framework for future trail planning, emphasizing the integration between trail development and open space planning and conservation efforts. In alignment with the City’s Multiple Species Conservation Program, the Trails Master Plan will ensure that trail development respects and preserves our natural habitats and biodiversity.

Beyond trails within our open spaces, the Trails Master Plan will also address the vital role of urban and recreational connections in fostering vibrant communities across San Diego. By enhancing connectivity and accessibility, the Trails Master Plan seeks to promote active lifestyles and enrich the quality of life for community members of all age groups and all abilities.

Penasquitos Preserve

There are three primary components to the development of the Trails Master Plan – the Existing Conditions Report, Community Engagement and the Trails Master Plan itself.

Existing Conditions Report

The Existing Conditions Report will compile and present information regarding the City’s existing trail system. This will include quantitative data such as the location and length of trails, as well as qualitative data such as trail condition. The Existing Conditions Report will help the City identify opportunities to improve and expand the existing trail network and inform development of the Trails Master Plan.

Trails Master Plan

The Trails Master Plan will provide a framework for the provision and enhancement of urban and open space multi-purpose trails that are accessible and enjoyable for San Diegans of all ages and abilities. Through the goals, policies and design guidelines of the Trails Master Plan, the City will plan for a trails system that enhances recreational opportunities for all users in all communities; provides connections to the places we live, work and play; and adheres to the City’s commitment to the protection of sensitive plants and animals.

Community Engagement

Meaningful and inclusive public engagement is critical to ensuring that the Trails Master plan serves the needs of all San Diegans. In partnership with local community-based organizations (CBOs), the City will provide a variety of engagement opportunities for community members to provide input on how trails are utilized, what works well and where improvements are needed. Information gathered through engagement will inform the Existing Conditions Report and the Trails Master Plan.

The Trails Master Plan will be developed based on the following guiding principles:

Nobel Park Trail

Sustainability

Trail

Resiliency

Mobility Trail

Equity

Boardwalk Trail

Access & Connectivity

Get Involved and Stay Connected!

Community involvement is extremely important to the City and the input received from our communities will drive the decision-making process. Below are ways to stay connected and provide feedback.

 

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Tell Us How You Would Like to Engage

As these important policies are further developed, the City would like to learn how you would like to stay engaged. Please take a moment to complete the form linked below.

Interest Form

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Share Information with Friends and Family

Quick facts and additional project information are being developed and will be linked below once published.

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Upcoming Community Workshops

The details of future community workshops will be posted here as they become available. Questions and comments can be sent to publicspaces@sandiego.gov.