www.sdchamber.org

President's Update

By Ruben Barrales, President & Chief Executive Officer

As the voice of business in our region for over 130 years, the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce has a long and rich history in San Diego.  Our accomplishments have served to enhance our region’s economy, improve infrastructure, and pass business-friendly legislation.

In 1909, the Chamber raised the funds to purchase the 1,400 acres of land that was used to create Balboa Park as a cultural resource for the public.  In 1962, the Chamber's Harbor Committee helped pass the legislation needed to complete the construction of the Coronado Bay Bridge.

The Chamber was instrumental in bringing the Navy to San Diego, playing a critical role in bringing military bases into the region prior to World War I. The military presence in San Diego continues to be a driving force for the local economy.  (You can find a copy of our Military Economic Study on our web page: www.sdchamber.org).

Today, we are taking on new challenges that will influence the future of San Diego. 

Just as it was in the late 1800’s, one of the Chamber's top priorities continues to be bringing fresh drinking water to San Diego residents, and we are working closely with the San Diego Water Authority to find a solution to the water crisis, including increased conservation and policy solutions.

In order to relieve traffic congestion, we are pushing for more transportation funding from Washington, D.C. and Sacramento.  These resources will assist the County, our cities, SANDAG, regional transportation authorities and Caltrans to implement needed road improvements and public transit in our region.

The Chamber’s Mexico Business Center is working with various partners on both sides of the border to create more effective border crossings.  This includes efficiencies at the current ports of entry, and two new proposed ports of entry for our region – Otay II, and a port of entry into Rodriguez Field in Tijuana.  Improving these crossings helps the economy on both sides of the border. 

And, we will continue to fight for a world-class waterfront for our region which will help strengthen our economy, bring in much needed jobs and increase tax revenues for local government.

As we move into 2008, the Chamber will keep working on these issues, and will continue to serve as the voice for business in San Diego.