In announcing the zone expansion at a gathering of local business leaders, Byron Wear, San Diego city councilman said, "This is a prime example of state and local governments working together to provide more assistance to businesses in the region."

Established by the California Technology, Trade & Commerce Agency, enterprise zones target economically distressed areas, providing tax incentives to businesses locating there to encourage business investment and promote creation of new jobs. These incentives can save businesses millions of dollars annually, as well as provides them preference in awarding of state contracts.p>Expansion of the enterprise zone to include Chula Vista is expected to give development in the area a shot in the arm. Chula Vista Mayor Shirley Horton, told the group, "We're pleased that the enterprise zone expansion will allow the City of Chula Vista to significantly assist our existing major employers as well as help us attract new businesses to our bayfront."

Currently, 12 major firms are located in the new zone, including BFGoodrich Aerospace's corporate headquarters. Ken Wood, VP and general manager at the BFGoodrich facility, said "The expansion of San Diego's zone to Chula Vista is very important to us and played a significant role in our plan to increase investment in the region." The firm has committed $50 million for capital improvements to its campus, which include relocation of facilities to the north side of the campus to free up its current site for development by the San Diego Port District.