Environmental Concerns Raised Over Proposed Topgolf Development in San Diego
A new environmental impact report for the proposed Topgolf development on San Diego's East Harbor Island has raised concerns about potential negative effects on local habitats and native species. The report highlights issues such as light pollution from the facility's…

San Diego, CA, August 4, 2026 —
An environmental impact report for a proposed Topgolf entertainment complex on San Diego’s East Harbor Island has identified potential negative effects on local wildlife and habitats. The report details concerns regarding light pollution from the planned facility’s poles and nets, which could interfere with the behavior of native bird species and pose risks of entanglement.
The document, which assesses the environmental consequences of the development, highlights specific issues that could impact the delicate ecosystem of the area. Light pollution, in particular, is noted as a potential disruptor to nocturnal and migratory bird patterns. The proposed structure’s lighting and its associated nets are cited as potential hazards.
In response to these environmental concerns, alternative designs for the Topgolf facility are reportedly being considered. One such alternative involves a scaled-down, single-story version of the proposed structure. The specifics of other potential alternatives were not detailed in the summary.
The draft environmental impact report is now open for public review. Residents and interested parties have until August 24th to submit their comments and feedback on the findings and proposed development.
Story summarized from the original created by Andi Ruiz • Times of San Diego on timesofsandiego.com, see more information here.
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