The Nolen Plans (1908 and 1926)
John Nolen, the first American to identify exclusively as a town and city planner, called George Marston "The Pioneer of City Planning for San Diego."

Recognizing the need for a holistic city plan, George Marston commissioned one from landscape architect and city planner John Nolen. The plan proposed the preservation of beaches and open space for the public and a grand plaza surrounded by civic buildings between Date and Cedar Streets, with a wide boulevard connecting Balboa Park to the civic center and San Diego Bay. George retained Nolen to update the plan in 1924. This plan emphasized the waterfront with an 11-mile drive along the bay from the city's southern boundary, passing downtown and the future County Administration Center, a suggested airport, and on to the Navy bases in Point Loma.

Courtesy Coons Collection