Compact soccer field will now be the newest addition to Harborside Park

CHULA VISTA, Calif. - The city of Chula Vista discussed the future of the restored Harborside Park Tuesday night after nearly 2 years of it being shut down. Part of that future now includes a compact soccer field. 

There has been a lot of back-and-forth surrounding Harborside Park since its closure in 2022. However, after approving a resolution to adopt a grant agreement with support from the U.S. Soccer Foundation, the South Bay has a better idea of what’s in store for its grand reopening in the fall. 

 "My main concern is the safety," said Leticia Laras, a mom and Chula Vista resident of 18 years, when commenting on Harborside Park. Though once known for its growing homeless population and crime, the park is now under construction.

 "The homeless camp happened during the pandemic, so no one was using the park," Laras said. "But now, when they’re going to reopen, we will be using the park.” 

On Tuesday, the city council approved a new addition to Harborside: a mini soccer field funded in part by a grant from the U.S. Soccer Foundation and donations from hometown professional Paul Arriola.