Robert Egger Sr. - South Bay Recreation Center

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History of the Center

In 1945, Robert Egger Sr. donated approximately 4.28 acres of land at the northwest corner of 17th Street and Coronado Avenue to the County of San Diego. The land was intended to be used to construct a community park, and the transfer document included a reversionary clause requiring the site to be returned to Mr. Egger in the event it was no longer used as a public park.

In 1957, the City of San Diego acquired the South Bay Park and Recreation Center at no cost in connection with the larger annexation of the 22-square mile South Bay area from the County into the City. In 1969-1970, the park location moved approximately two blocks southeast to the SW corner of Coronado Avenue and 19th Street (now known as Saturn Boulevard). The park also expanded from 4.28 acres to 8.62 acres.

The park relocation was the result of a land exchange with Mr. Egger, and as part of the transaction, the City paid for the difference in acreage that was being swapped with Mr. Egger. In the early 1970’s, the City constructed the South Bay Community Park and Recreation Center at its current location today. Mr. Egger, who was also a local dairy farmer and 58-year South Bay resident, passed away in 1978.

In 1985, the South Bay Recreation Council recommended renaming the recreation center building to honor Robert Egger Sr. The Park and Recreation Board approved the requested name change. The request was then expanded to rename the entire park facility after Mr. Egger. In June 1997, the City Council declared (via Resolution R-288770) that South Bay Community Park and Recreation Center be renamed to Robert Egger Sr. South Bay Community Park and Recreation Center. Justifications cited in the City Council resolution include Mr. Egger’s land donation, his active dedication to the South Bay community, and his service as a member of the South Bay Chamber of Commerce and the Tijuana Valley Water District. He also was an instrumental figure in building the St. Charles Roman Catholic Church and was credited for his significant role in established a spirit of community in South Bay.

In 2025, a renovation project brought a new playground and adult fitness area to the park.

Directions and Bus Route

Map this location

From Interstate 5, take the Coronado Avenue exit and turn west on Coronado, then left on Saturn Avenue. The facility and adjacent parking lot are on the right.

The center is accessible by bus via SDMTS Routes 901 and 933/934.