He was in charge of harbor improvements in 1912, to handle increased traffic anticipated by the completion of the Panama Canal.

He came up with the "Capps' Plan" to dredge the harbor, fill the shoreline, and erect piers, wharves, seawalls, and warehouses.

His focus as engineer and mayor was on developing tourist facilities and preserving San Diego's unique environment.

With a colorful personality and a forthright approach to his plans, Capps often sparked arguments and was frequently the talk of the town.

We should cater to the entertainment of the tourist, make pleasant and congenial, have public places of resort in the nature of beautiful parks, fine boulevards, roads and drives.