just an update... i already got my new card in the mail
So I went from online application -> remote interview -> card in hand in 8 days. Since there is no San Diego location open, I would have had to drive to LA or wait till the next time I flew (thus not being able to use it at the US-Mexico border). Long story short, I would keep refreshing the remote interview availability as much as possible until one opens, as it is infinitely more convenient to do a 5 min interview on your phone from home . The officer told me they are still in pilot program but trying to rapidly expand it.
Good luck everyone!