South Bay Power Plant Comes Crumbling Down

Byline: Ambrosia Brody CHULA VISTA — In a matter of minutes, small, controlled explosive charges placed within the decommissioned South Bay Power Plant brought the 165-foot-tall steel-framed structure crumbling down in front of thousands of spectators, on the morning of Feb. 2. Residents, city officials and other onlookers — several on kayaks — cheered as the plant collapsed during the long-awaited and very public event. Demolition of the plant, long considered a local “eyesore,” marks a new era for the Chula Vista Bayfront and the fulfillment of a promise made by the Port of San Diego. “The removal of the South Bay Power Plant is a critical step in redeveloping the Chula Vista Bayfront,” said Tanya Castaneda, public information officer for the Port of San Diego. “It eliminates an eyesore, opens up land for future public parks and paves the way for economic development. “The redevelopment of this site will allow the people of Chula Vista and the San Diego region to finally enjoy access and benefit from the Chula Vista Bayfront,” she said. Crowds watched the plant come down from port-designated viewing areas. Port Commission chairwoman Ann Moore, Chula Vista Mayor Cheryl Cox, Environmental Health Coalition representative Laura Hunter, South County Economic Development Council...