Restaurant-Topped "SkySpire" May Anchor New Bayfront Redevelopment

A unique reimagining of San Diego’s downtown waterfront is moving ahead. Following six developer proposal presentations, Eater recently learned that The Port of San Diego has selected to continue discussions with Protea Waterfront Development (PWD) and their suggested redevelopment of Embarcadero Marina Park North and Seaport Village.

The $1.2 billion 'Seaport San Diego' project will bring a new district to Downtown San Diego, including an aquarium, bayfront beaches, hotels, marinas, retail, dining and other entertainment that capitalizes on its prime 70-acre waterfront location.

Notable highlights include a network of restaurant and shopping experiences, including Dock & Dine and a dynamic public market. The refurbished Tuna Harbor aims to revitalize San Diego’s legendary fishing industry too; Seaport San Diego has partnered with Rose Canyon Fisheries to build a state-of-the-art aquaculture facility, where plans include a seafood market as part of the retail offerings.

One of the most visible elements of the project is the ThrillCorp SkySpire, a 480-foot tall contemporary observation tower that ThrillCorp, Inc. Chairman Bill Kitchen says is sure to become an iconic architectural feature most associated with San Diego. Rotating gondolas will transport guests to a top-level interactive observation experience (to be designed in partnership with Smithsonian Media), while a second upper level will include a restaurant that affords diners stunning 360-degree panoramic views.

Longtime San Diego resident and Protea Waterfront Development spokesperson Yehudi Gaffen says Seaport San Diego was designed for the community, and will set the stage for new vibrant downtown center that’s accessible to all.