Daily Business Report: Friday, November 21, 2025
San Diego Zoo Will Start Charging for Parking Next Year. City’s Cut Still TBD
By Mariana Martínez Barba | Voice of San Diego
The San Diego Zoo will begin charging visitors for parking in January.
A zoo spokesperson confirmed on Thursday that the parking fees will start on Jan. 5, the same date that the city of San Diego will start charging for parking at lots in Balboa Park.
It’s unclear how much the zoo will charge and how the revenue will be split with the city. But the spokesperson said the rates and additional information would be shared early next week.
California is still in the red with another big budget deficit projected for next year
By YUE STELLA YU | CalMatters
California will face a nearly $18 billion budget deficit in the new fiscal year due to higher than expected spending, despite an economic boon largely driven by AI enthusiasm and strong revenue, the nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office said Wednesday.
To make things worse, the $17.7 billion shortfall could balloon to an annual $35 billion by fiscal year 2027-28, as spending continues to grow and debts come due, the office warned in its annual fiscal outlook.
The gloomy forecast is a refreshed look at California’s financial future since June, when the state Department of Finance projected a $17.4 billion deficit for the upcoming fiscal year. The widened budget gap could undercut the legacy of Gov. Gavin Newsom, as he will likely be forced to make tough budget choices in his last year as governor.
By Alaska Airilnes
Building on a long-standing partnership, Alaska Airlines and the San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) are uniting once again to elevate San Diego as a world-class destination for meetings, conventions, business and leisure travelers. Together, Alaska and SDTA will spotlight the city’s vibrant coastal culture, thriving innovation economy and diverse attractions – all easily accessible with Alaska’s growing network of nonstop routes to and from San Diego.
Through a joint partnership, Alaska and the SDTA will showcase San Diego as a must-visit destination for business and leisure travelers across the country and around the world. Beyond tourism, the partnership drives economic growth, supports local jobs and spotlights the region’s innovation and culture. Using a 360-degree approach – from direct consumer marketing and business engagement to community impact through the San Diego Tourism Accelerator – Alaska and SDTA bring the city’s vibrant culture to national audiences with signature events like Taste of San Diego in New York and the Washington, D.C. Spa Experience.
“San Diego is one of Alaska Airlines’ most important hubs, and we’re proud to invest in a partnership that strengthens the local tourism sector and the broader community it supports,” said Neil Thwaites, regional vice president of California at Alaska Airlines. “By combining our extensive network and resources with SDTA’s deep local expertise, we’re helping ensure San Diego continues to thrive as a premier destination for business and leisure travelers alike.”
With more than 49 nonstop destinations from San Diego International Airport, Alaska Airlines offers more nonstop routes than any other carrier serving the region. Beginning next spring, new service to Dallas-Forth Worth, Oakland and Santa Barbara will further expand connectivity. Furthermore, Alaska’s network from San Diego provides seamless access to major business and leisure hubs such as Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Chicago, Washington D.C. and popular destinations in Mexico – all with the airline’s award-winning service and premium travel experience.
“This partnership with Alaska Airlines demonstrates what’s possible when two organizations unite around a shared vision for growth,” said Daniel Kuperschmid, President & CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority. “Together, we’re not only showcasing San Diego as a world-class destination — we’re also investing in the people, businesses and communities that make this city truly extraordinary.”
“San Diego is always proud to welcome visitors from across the country and around the world, and partnerships like this one between the San Diego Tourism Authority and Alaska Airlines help make that possible,” said San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. “With more nonstop destinations than ever, Alaska is opening new doors to our city’s world-class beaches, cultural institutions, vibrant neighborhoods, and thriving innovation economy. Tourism is a cornerstone of our local economy, and this collaboration will help drive jobs, investment, and opportunity for San Diegans.”
