San Diego to Build 161 Affordable Units Near Transit Hub

San Diego’s urban landscape is set for a significant transformation with the approval of an affordable housing project near the 12th & Imperial Transit Center. The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) has reached an agreement with the San Diego Housing Fund to develop a community that will consist entirely of affordable housing units. This initiative aims to seamlessly blend residential living with public transit access in the bustling East Village area.

According to MTS, the project will feature a six-story building that includes 161 affordable units, ranging from one to three bedrooms. The development will replace an existing surface parking lot and aims to enhance urban sustainability. Stephen Whitburn, MTS Board Chair and San Diego City Councilmember, emphasized that this project demonstrates MTS’s commitment to being more than just a transit agency. He stated, “We’re a community partner,” highlighting the importance of integrating housing solutions with public transportation.

Project Details and Community Benefits

The new affordable housing complex will offer various amenities designed to foster community engagement. Plans include a children’s play area, green outdoor spaces, and a community room, all aimed at creating a vibrant living environment. With the project strategically located at a major transit hub, future residents will have immediate access to multiple trolley lines and numerous bus routes, facilitating easy travel throughout the city.

This initiative aligns with a broader vision for urban development that prioritizes both sustainability and accessibility. The arrangement between MTS and the San Diego Housing Fund removes the financial burden of construction from MTS, establishing a long-term ground lease that spans 99 years. Construction is scheduled to commence in 2027, with anticipated completion by 2029.

The project not only seeks to address the growing need for affordable housing but also reinforces the connection between living spaces and public transit. By integrating residential development into the fabric of San Diego’s transit system, this initiative represents a progressive step towards a more sustainable urban future.

As urban centers continue to grapple with housing shortages, San Diego’s approach may serve as a model for similar initiatives in other metropolitan areas. The successful fusion of transit and affordable housing could encourage more cities to adopt similar strategies, ultimately enhancing community connectivity and improving the quality of urban life.