Nick Nonopacki of Taunton heads toward shore and a waiting boat trailer as he calls it a day after some fun with friends on personal watercraft at Lake Nippenicket on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.
San Diego, California – San Diego residents are voicing frustration over a proposed city budget plan that would drastically limit access to several of the region’s most popular lakes, including Lake Murray. As part of a broader effort to address a $258 million budget deficit, Mayor Todd Gloria has proposed slashing the Reservoir Recreation Program’s budget by 20%, effectively closing many city lakes on weekdays.
Lake Murray, a cherished spot for walking, cycling, fishing, and family outings, would go from being open seven days a week to just two — Saturdays and Sundays — under the proposed changes. The city estimates this move alone would save more than $414,000.
“This is a great free option for the entire community to come and get outside,” said Hannah Green, a San Diegan who visits the lake several times a week. “To have that taken away would really impact my quality of life, honestly.”
If the proposal moves forward, all public access to city reservoirs would be restricted during weekdays. Parking lots would be closed, restrooms would be locked, and only portable toilets would remain available. Miramar Reservoir would face the same weekend-only limitation as Lake Murray. Other reservoirs, including San Vicente, El Capitan, Sutherland, Hodges, Otay, and Barrett, would see their current operating days reduced by one or more days per week. In total, the proposed schedule cuts would save the city over $622,000 annually.
Frequent visitors say the closures would be a blow to the quality of life in San Diego. Debbie Anderson, who often brings her grandchildren to Lake Murray, lamented the potential loss. “We’ve been coming here for decades. I took my own kids here, now my grandkids. I would really like to see it stay alive and protected,” she said.
Community advocates are also speaking out. Stefanie Benvenuto, a consultant with Friends of San Diego Lakes, warned that the closures would hurt local businesses that rely on lake visitors for income. “There are businesses that rely on the boating and fishing community and its patrons,” she said.
John Dawson, an avid fisherman, noted how unpredictable closures already interfere with outdoor plans. “I’ve gone to reservoirs only to find out they’re closed… it ruins the whole day.”
Public hearings on the proposed cuts are scheduled between May 5 and May 9. The final budget must be approved by June 10. As city leaders weigh their options, many residents are urging them to protect access to the region’s treasured public lakes.
