City OKs Removal of Grass, Benches at Horton Plaza

Weighing safety concerns against aesthetics, the San Diego City Council voted Monday to temporarily remove the benches and grass from Horton Plaza Park in an effort to rid the small, historic gathering spot of drunks and rowdies.

The plan, approved unanimously, was an amended version of an earlier proposal under which downtown businesses will pay to replace the grass with drought-resistant flowers and to remove the benches that line three sides of the park to deprive undesirables of places to sit.

Under a Central City Assn. plan endorsed by the council last summer, the benches were to be returned within six months, but the grass was not to be restored unless the landscaping changes were unsuccessful in improving the park’s atmosphere.

However, under the plan passed Monday, the grass, too, will be restored, even if the landscaping modifications--expected to be completed within three months--prove successful in discouraging loitering in the park.

Area businesses have long complained that the park, on Broadway between 3rd and 4th avenues, has become a haven for drunks and criminals whose drug dealing, panhandling and general unsavory demeanor scare away citizens.

“This insures . . . that an important part of downtown will be available to more and more people,” said Councilman Bob Filner, whose district includes downtown.

Under the park redesign, a kiosk where food will be sold will open, other vendors will sell merchandise from pushcarts, and the park increasingly will be used for musical performances, art shows, book sales and organized luncheons intended to attract more pedestrians.