Construction has begun on the largest veterans’ park on the West Coast, Freedom Park at Navy Pier, a multi-year joint project expected to open in 2028. The Port of San Diego and the USS Midway Museum have partnered to deliver what will be the West Coast’s largest veterans’ park. When Freedom Park opens, it will celebrate the region’s military history and tell the story of everyday heroes who have served our country and preserved our freedoms.
According to the port of San Diego, Freedom Park will extend nearly 10 acres from the west end of Navy Pier to the Bob Hope Memorial.
Construction cost of the Freedom Park
The total construction cost of the project is estimated to be about $65 million. The Freedom Park was approved in 2023 by the California Coastal Commission. In February this year, the Port of San Diego’s board of commissioners approved a contract of $7.4 million to demolish a building at the entrance of the pier and make way for the construction of the park.
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Construction of Freedom Park at Navy Pier is set to enhance the North Embarcadero area of San Diego Bay, known as the Port’s most visible and accessible waterfront space and often referred to as San Diego’s “front porch.” This addition will complement an array of existing public amenities that the Port has developed over recent years. These include public parks and plazas, various dining options, and engaging public art installations.
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Transforming Navy Pier: Amenities in Freedom Park
The project team plans to construct a wide public promenade along the north side of the Navy Pier, designing it to seamlessly connect the pier’s east and west ends with a network of pathways and trails spreading across the park. This will incorporate educational elements to enhance visitor engagement and understanding. The design includes comfortable seating areas, ample bike parking, and shade structures to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Additional features in Freedom park include a low seat wall complemented by a turf mound, perfect for sitting, picnicking, and active uses. The landscaping will focus on plant species native to California, supplemented by selected non-native, non-invasive shade trees to enrich biodiversity and aesthetic appeal.
To enhance the experience, for visitors at Freedom Park they will find play equipment and seating options spread across the park. There will also be a flagpole and designed seating areas at the end of the pier. Visitors can explore monuments like the John Finn Memorial honoring San Diegos first WWII Medal of Honor recipient and a statue called ‘Family Homecoming’. For convenience there will be restrooms along with a snack stand offering affordable treats. Moreover, the project team will dedicate a mobile microsite and app to providing insights about the pier, Midway, and San Diego Bay. 
Freedom Park at Navy Pier has more to offer. Numerous dining and shopping spots catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences make the waterfront lively and vibrant. You can enjoy a meal, at the Carnitas Snack Shack. Explore the lifestyle hub of BRIC located at the intersection of Broadway and Pacific. BRIC features the Intercontinental San Diego hotel, two Marriott hotels along with dining and retail choices.
