SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — One of the most controversial developments in San Diego's recent history is now welcoming its first residents.
The One Paseo development has leased about 60 of its planned 608 housing units, most of which are still under construction.
The complex aims to put everything within the reach of its residents in a live, work, play environment. The model units are even staged to make the most discriminating apartment shopper feel right at home. The fridge is stocked with sodas, candy, snacks, and even beer.
"If you come here, it's like living on a vacation everyday," said Jay Rey-Hiplito, Kilroy's vice president. "We've got pools, we've got fitness centers, if you're into the best restaurants, you can walk right across the street."
RELATED: One Paseo set to open in Carmel Valley following numerous setbacks
One Paseo packs 608 housing units into three buildings just south of Del Mar Heights Road.
Rey-Hipolito says with San Diego's supply crunch, renters are willing to live in dense apartment complexes like One Paseo. He says they are increasingly looking at the housing units as places where they rest, spending their leisure time and entertaining at the amenities. The complex includes two pools (one saltwater), a community room, and an expansive gym.
In all, that's why he believes the price is right for the units. Studios start at $2,350 a month, and the model two-bedroom, at 1,058 square feet, goes for between $3,600 and $3,800 a month.
"Instead of looking at price, it's important to focus on value," Rey-Hiploito said. "When you're looking at what you get, you may no longer need to have a second car, you may not need to have a gym membership anymore."
RELATED: City Council approves slimmed down One Paseo
One Paseo is a three-pronged, $470-million development that includes housing, office, and retail.
The San Diego City Council approved a larger version in 2015, but nearby residents, and the owners of the mall across the street, led a referendum that ended with the current scaled down development.
So far, 237 units are available. The development includes 61 affordable units for households earning up to 65 percent of the area median income.
The full construction should be complete by the first quarter of 2020.
