Standing at La Jolla Shores, one of San Diego’s major tourism centers, Mayoral candidate Carl DeMaio concluded his coastal walking tour by
highlighting the economic impact of San Diego’s “blue economy.”

Last week, DeMaio announced the release of his “Clean Coasts 2020” plan, which provides specific goals to make the coastal environment and coastal economy a priority in city government.

These goals include:

Expand San Diego’s Blue Economy

- Study the Economic Impact of San Diego’s Blue Economy

- Expand San Diego’s Blue Economy

- Compile a “Surf Industry Economic Impact Report”

Enhance Resident & Visitor Enjoyment of Our Coastal Environment

- Invest in Coastal Infrastructure

- Use Creative New Ways to Deliver Services to Coastal Communities

- Encourage Volunteerism & Civic Engagement

“San Diego’s economy relies heavily on our unique position along the Pacific coast. The maritime industry, tourism, marine research institutes, biotech, and small businesses like surf shops and kayak rentals are all important job creators and should be supported by city leaders,” said DeMaio. “That’s why I am announcing my commitment to our blue economy by proposing an economic impact study of coastal job sectors.”

DeMaio was joined by Dr. Jess Ponting, Director of San Diego State University’s “Center for Surf Research” to highlight an important and often
overlooked economic sector unique to San Diego.

“We don't know exactly how much San Diego's blue economy generates each year, but we do know it’s an incredibly significant economic driver in our region; we would like to find out just how significant. Surfing is an important aspect of that blue economy, one that can be sustainable, that is
growing, and that is crucially important to our local culture and history,” explained Dr. Ponting.

DeMaio’s focus on San Diego’s blue economy is part of a five-day series of meetings with coastal residents and discussing his commitment to coastal
water quality, beach infrastructure, and a clean, reliable supply of drinking water along San Diego’s coastline.