NATIONAL CITY, CA — National City, in partnership with the San Diego County Water Authority (SDCWA), has officially broken ground on a new sustainable landscape project at the National City A Reason to Survive (ARTS) Center, located at 200 E 12th Street. Construction began on Monday, April 13, 2026, and the project is expected to be completed within the next two months.
The project is being delivered at no cost to the City, using grant funds provided by the California Department of Water Resources. Once complete, the project will transform the existing non-functional turf at the front and side of the ARTS Center into a vibrant, water-efficient landscape designed to be both beautiful and educational. The existing grass areas are being removed and replaced with lush, colorful, water-wise plants suited to the local climate.
The redesigned landscape will include:
- Meandering pathways made of decomposed granite
- Educational signage highlighting the benefits of California Friendly gardens
- Rain chains and a decorative dry stream bed designed to capture rainwater and encourage groundwater infiltration
“It’s one thing to talk about sustainable landscaping, but it’s another to have a working demonstration right in your neighborhood—something you can see, touch, and truly experience,” said Mayor Ron Morrison. “This project brings those ideas to life, showing our community that water-smart solutions are not only practical and resilient, but also beautiful. National City is proud to lead by example in creating a more sustainable future,” said Mayor Ron Morrison.”
The ARTS Center was selected as one of seven sites countywide for SDCWA’s Large Landscape Direct Install Assistance Program, a grant-supported pilot effort focused on replacing non-functional turf at commercial sites located in income-qualifying communities. The program supports statewide water conservation goals aligned with Assembly Bill 1572, which prohibits the use of potable water for irrigation of non-functional turf.
In addition to conserving water, the landscape enhancements will improve climate resiliency by incorporating plants that help clean the air, reduce urban heat, and support local wildlife.
Residents interested in learning more about water-smart landscaping and conservation programs are encouraged to visit www.sdcwa.org.
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