San Diego’s urban fabric has long been shaped by its freeways—corridors of movement that have, paradoxically, severed connections between neighborhoods. One of the most striking examples of this is Cortez Hill, a historic residential enclave perched above downtown, which once had a natural link to Balboa Park. Today, the I-5 freeway acts as a barrier, isolating the neighborhood from one of the city’s most cherished public spaces.
The Balboa Bridge reimagines this lost connection through a graceful suspension bridge, soaring above the freeway to seamlessly reunite the neighborhood with the park. The bridge’s cable arches echo the iconic arches of the Cabrillo Bridge in the distance, creating a visual dialogue between past and present, reinforcing Balboa Park’s role as the cultural and civic heart of San Diego. More than just a crossing, the bridge serves as an elevated promenade, offering a walkable, bike-friendly pathway with stunning views of the city and park.
To further enhance connectivity, this proposal also introduces a new trolley line along 9th Avenue, extending from Park at the Park at Petco Park to the Balboa Bridge. This light rail connection would provide a seamless, high-capacity transit link between downtown and Balboa Park—something the city has long lacked—making it easier for residents and visitors alike to access the park without relying on cars.
At the base of the bridge’s spiraling ramp on 9th Avenue, a café and gathering space would activate the area, turning it into a neighborhood hub rather than just a transit corridor. This space would serve as a meeting place for locals, cyclists, and transit riders, adding a layer of social vibrancy and making the bridge not just a piece of infrastructure, but a true public destination.
As cities worldwide work to heal the urban scars left by freeway construction, the Balboa Bridge is a step toward a more connected, pedestrian-friendly San Diego—one where history, community, and green space are woven back together.