City Heights Businesses Need Your Support During Construction Delays

Local businesses along University Avenue are struggling due to ongoing construction delays, but the University Avenue Business Relief Fund and Shop Local Passport Program are here to help.

Launched by City Heights Community Development Corporation (City Heights CDC), these initiatives aim to keep businesses afloat and encourage the community to shop local.

Why It Matters

With 22 storefronts barricaded and traffic rerouted, many businesses have lost significant revenue. While the University Avenue Complete Street Project will bring long-term benefits, delays have forced some businesses to close.

City Heights CDC is urging the City of San Diego to complete the work on time while also rallying community support.

How You Can Support

University Avenue Business Relief Fund: This fund will provide financial assistance to businesses to help them recover losses and remain open after construction concludes. City Heights CDC is working with private donors and community partners to raise much-needed funds.

Shop Local Passport Program (Through April 12): If you shop at participating businesses, you can collect passport stamps with each purchase. After 20 stamps, you qualify for a grand prize—an exclusive basket of local gift cards and experiences worth over $250.

Taste of City Heights (April 12, 3 PM–6 PM): This inaugural event will celebrate local businesses with food tastings, entertainment, and the grand prize announcement for the Shop Local Passport Program.

Join the Movement

“These businesses are more than storefronts; they’re the heart of City Heights,” said Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera. “Now’s the time to show up for them.”

Support the University Avenue Business Relief Fund and Shop Local Passport Program today. Learn more here.