SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — The city is hoping developers can change the landscape of the Midway District's sports arena site.
Currently home to Pechanga Arena, some retail, and surrounding parking, the 48-acre arena site could see an overhaul in the near future. Starting Friday, the city will begin accepting proposals to redevelop and operate the site.
The selected proposal will fit with the city's vision to incorporate more affordable housing, the Midway District from a heavily commercial area into a combination of residential, office, retail, and park space.
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“This urban location, with its close proximity to downtown, could become a vital connector to our beach and bay communities while remaining a lively entertainment destination," said City Councilmember Jen Campbell, who represents the area. "If done correctly, Midway can become an example of how visionary San Diego can be.”
Leaders are hoping to see the arena site, specifically, become more of a pedestrian and transit-oriented area that incorporates entertainment and recreation. The city is also accepting proposals for "renovating and rebuilding" Pechanga Arena.
San Diego's Midway District will undergo a series of changes as part of the area's community plan, including plans for a bay-to-bay pedestrian and bike trail, urban parks and plazas, affordable housing, and villages in the district.
“This is an opportunity to breathe new life into the Midway and unlock its full potential as an entertainment district for all San Diegans to enjoy,” said Mayor Kevin Faulconer. “With 48 acres of developable land, we can create a connected community with entertainment, housing, retail and mobility options that meet our long-term goals to create a more sustainable future and build more housing that San Diegans can actually afford.”
