A project underway at Civic Center Plaza in Downtown will improve safety and accessibility for anyone visiting the area near the San Diego Civic Theatre and the City Administration Building, also known as San Diego City Hall. Most notably, the 24-hour public restrooms on Third Avenue at B Street will be renovated to include touchless technology and improved security measures.  

The renovation project also includes new energy-efficient lighting in Civic Center Plaza to improve visibility at night, and the installation of a new audio/visual broadcast system with a large screen to support emergency communications and public meetings at City Hall.  

The entire project is fully funded by a federal Community Development Block Grant. It was initiated by the City’s Economic Development Department.   

“Past public health emergencies have underscored the importance of safe, sanitary and well-connected civic spaces in supporting community resilience. These upgrades move us closer to that goal,” said Economic Development Director Christina Bibler. “We appreciate the federal funding that allows us to invest in a more welcoming Civic Center Plaza for residents, workers and visitors.”  

The project builds on lessons learned during recent public health emergencies, when Civic Center Plaza and adjacent facilities such as Golden Hall served as locations for news conferences, emergency sheltering, vaccination clinics and other public operations. These experiences reinforced the Plaza’s vital role as a civic gathering space and highlighted the need for reliable communications infrastructure, safe public facilities and improved lighting.   

All improvements are expected to be completed by August 2026.