Public Advocate Shane Harris to Announce “Bill Walton Way” Proposal Wednesday

Photo of Bill Walton. UCLA Newsroom

By San Diego Monitor News Staff

San Diego, CA  — A public announcement is scheduled for Wednesday in Balboa Park, where officials and members of Bill Walton’s family will gather to discuss proposals that would name honorary sites in both San Diego and La Mesa after the late basketball legend and philanthropist. It's the first time a proposal to honor Walton with city designation has been made since Walton's passing in 2024.

The event, organized by San Diego Public Advocate Shane Harris, will begin at 11:00 a.m. at 3398 Zoo Drive. The announcement falls on what would have been Walton’s 73rd birthday. Members of Walton’s family, including his wife Lori Walton, are expected to attend. Harris's office said those planning to join the event are encouraged to RSVP here.

The legislative proposals, submitted separately by Harris's office to the cities of San Diego and La Mesa, include several honorary designations connected to Walton’s life and community work. In San Diego, potential options proposed include renaming a portion of Park Blvd. in Balboa Park near Walton's longtime home between Upas Street and Zoo Drive "Honorary Bill Walton Way", the Mission Valley YMCA, Balboa Park, Mission Trails Regional Park, Mission Beach, and the Colina del Sol Recreation Center. According to the press release issued by Harris's office "each site represents a part of Walton’s connection to the city — from his advocacy for public recreation and health to his personal role in funding renovations at the Mission Beach basketball and volleyball courts".

In La Mesa, where Walton was born and raised, Harris's proposal suggests expanding his 2003 Walk of Fame display and establishing a “Bill Walton Corner” or “Bill Walton Square” near Helix High School or along La Mesa Boulevard. The effort seeks to recognize Walton’s roots in East County and his long-standing connection to the community.

Walton, who died in 2024, was a two-time NBA Champion, Hall of Fame inductee, broadcaster, and civic figure in San Diego. Beyond sports, he was known for his philanthropy and advocacy for cycling, environmental causes, and youth development. His statue stands outside the Mission Valley YMCA, one of several places across the city that reflect his decades of community involvement.

Public Advocate Shane Harris, who led a similar effort earlier this year to name a San Diego street after civil rights figure Willie L. Morrow, said the Walton proposals are part of an ongoing initiative to preserve and celebrate local history.

“Bill Walton was a symbol of community and joy for San Diego,” Harris said in a statement. “This is about ensuring future generations understand the depth of his impact both on and off the court.”

Both cities are expected to review the proposals through their respective honorary naming processes.