Developer obligation yields new park in Otay Ranch

Chula Vista is preparing to break new ground — literally and symbolically — with a park honoring Filipino American military veterans, the first of its kind in the nation. The 5.5-acre park will be part of the new Cota Vera neighborhood in Otay Ranch, along La Media Parkway.

“This park represents decades of courage, sacrifice, and service of the Filipino American veterans who have fought for freedom,” said Mayor John McCann, calling the project historic.

The park is designed to be a community hub with a wide range of recreational amenities. Plans include a two-acre multi-purpose field, a full-size basketball court, six pickleball courts, two bocce ball courts, a tot lot with separate play structures for children ages 2–5 and 5–12, picnic areas, seating, concrete walking paths linking to a regional trail system, and a restroom comfort station.

A privately funded monument honoring Filipino American veterans will be located in the southwest area of the park. Its design is a collaborative effort involving the Filipino-American Military Officers Association (FAMOS), other Filipino American community members, the developer HomeFed, and a design consultant team, with the city reviewing and approving the final design.

The project is being built by the developer as part of its parkland obligation for the neighborhood. City staff estimate the total cost will be around $20 million, while the park construction itself is projected at approximately $7.8 million. Construction is expected to begin in late spring or early summer 2026 and take about 12 months, with the park opening anticipated within two years.

Community involvement has been a key part of the planning process. FAMOS leadership and local Filipino American residents have contributed to the park and monument design from the earliest stages and will continue to participate throughout construction.

Once complete, the park will be one of three neighborhood parks in the Cota Vera community, serving both residents and the general public. Educational elements incorporated into the monument will help visitors learn about the contributions of Filipino American veterans. While no specific ceremonies have been scheduled yet, the city said that future programming to honor veterans and celebrate the park’s opening will be coordinated with community members and the Cota Vera Homeowners Association.

City staff emphasized that the park reflects Chula Vista’s growing diversity and could serve as a model for future culturally significant parks and monuments nationwide.