Mayor Kevin Faulconer touted his proposed budget's infrastructure investment of $633 million, which would be the largest in city history. Joined by Councilmen Mark Kersey and Chris Ward this week, Faulconer discussed the budget while standing in front of Balboa Park's Mingei International Museum, which would receive a new roof under the plan.
"After decades of neglect, we have a lot more to do, which is why I'm focused on fixing more streets, building more parks and making more neighborhood upgrades than ever before,'' Faulconer said. "We also need to invest in aging buildings like those in Balboa Park so they stand the test of time and that's exactly what this budget will do.''
The budget would represent a triple increase in infrastructure spending since fiscal year 2014. The proposed spending plan reserves $553 million for capital improvements, including $108 million for sidewalk fixes and 390 miles of street repairs, among other things. Overall, infrastructure spending makes up about 15 percent of Faulconer's total proposed budget. Pure Water San Diego, intended to generate a drought-proof local water supply from recycled sewage, would receive $121 million. Officials expect to break ground on the project early 2019.
More than $100 million is reserved for building improvements, including to city libraries, fire stations, recreation centers, lifeguard stations and operations facilities. Balboa Park's Air & Space Museum would receive a new roof. The Tierrasanta Library would be expanded. Stormwater channels, pump stations and storm drains would undergo $17.6 million in upgrades. A handful of city parks would see $16.5 million in new lighting, trail work and Americans with Disabilities Act improvements.
The City Council's Budget Review Committee will review Faulconer's infrastructure proposals on Thursday. A final budget is expected to be adopted in June.
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