Sixth Avenue Roundabout: Negative Impact on the Park?

By Javier Santos, chair C100 Design Review & Assistance Committee

Aproposed roundabout at Sixth Avenue and Juniper Street on the west side of Balboa Park is the latest project to be discussed by the Balboa Park Committee of 100’s recently created Design Review & Assistance Committee.

Architect Bruce Dammann and landscape architects Marty Poirier and Michael Singleton reviewed the city’s plan recently at a committee meeting and expressed concern that it would negatively impact the historic character of the park’s western edge.

Citing data from similar projects across San Diego and the historical context for the intersection, Poirier recommended an alternative design featuring a four-way signalized intersection with expanded sidewalks and traffic-calming measures.

Singleton provided additional background on the proposal’s review history with the Uptown Community Planning Group and its Project Review Committee. He emphasized potential impacts to the historic double palm-lined walkway along the park’s western boundary, first laid out by Kate Sessions, portions of which date back to 1906.

The committee also received a presentation from architect Rob Quigley on his proposal, what he calls “Balboa Crossing” at Sixth and Elm Street, that would strengthen connections between the park and downtown San Diego.

The concept focuses on revitalizing the park’s southern gateway through two coordinated components aimed at improving access, safety and long-term sustainability.

The first component proposes enhancements to the existing Sixth Avenue bridge over Interstate 5, transforming it into a shaded, pedestrian-friendly promenade linking Cortez Hill directly to the park.

The goal is to create a safer and more welcoming crossing while reactivating the currently underutilized southwest corner of the park. By improving walkability, programming and visual appeal, the project seeks to reintegrate downtown with one of the most significant civic spaces in California — Balboa Park.

The second component includes construction of a revenue-generating building at the end of Elm Street. The proposed structure would provide lease space, with proceeds helping fund both the bridge improvements and park enhancements. The site sits on unused land previously transferred to Caltrans for freeway construction.

Quigley suggested the parcel could be returned to the city so the project could be implemented. He noted ongoing collaboration with the city’s Development Services Department and the nonprofit San Diego Commons.

Renderings shared during the presentation were described as exploratory and intended to illustrate a vision still in progress rather than a finalized design.

C100’s new committee welcomes proponents of various projects in the park to seek its advice on detail elements, which C100 could share with the Balboa Park Committee. It previously offered advice to the San Diego Museum of Art as it pursues a replacement for its West Wing.

Google Maps aerial of Sixth Avenue and Elm Street “Balboa Crossing” site and rendering of the proposed Sixth Avenue Bridge enhancement. Photos: City of San Diego, Google Maps, Rob Wellington Qujigley AIA