News Summary
San Diego’s City Council has approved plans to redevelop the vacant old Central Library into affordable housing as part of a broader initiative to address local housing shortages. The city is seeking developers who will commit to ensuring that at least 25% of the residential units will be affordable for low-income families. This historic property has been unused since 2013 and is positioned in a prime downtown location, emphasizing the need for community-centric revitalization.
San Diego is embarking on a new initiative to transform the historic old Central Library, located at 820 E Street, into affordable housing. This redevelopment effort is part of the city’s broader commitment to address housing challenges and provide accessible living options for low-income residents.
The San Diego City Council declared the library property surplus land in July under California’s Surplus Land Act. As part of this initiative, the city is actively seeking developers who will commit to a minimum of 25% of the residential units being affordable for low-income households. Mayor Todd Gloria has described the location as “prime real estate” that requires some tender loving care to revitalize it for community use.
The old Central Library has been vacant since its operations moved to the new Central Library at 330 Park Boulevard in 2013. Since its closure, the site has been used sporadically as a temporary homeless shelter, highlighting the pressing need for a permanent solution to the property’s future.
The property, which originally opened in 1954, has been an integral part of San Diego’s community for nearly sixty years. It occupies half a city block and carries no height restrictions, provided that any new construction complies with Federal Aviation Administration guidelines. The city aims for a mixed-use development that combines low- and moderate-income housing, alongside other community-focused spaces.
Developers interested in the project have until November 3, 2025, to submit letters of interest. If an agreement is not formed under the Surplus Land Act guidelines, the city may choose to market the property publicly, potentially with lower standards for affordable housing requirements.
City Council member Stephen Whitburn emphasized the importance of this redevelopment, noting the potential revitalization of the unused property and the benefits it would bring to the community. The site’s strategic location in downtown San Diego positions it close to various jobs and public transit options, which enhances its appeal for future residents.
As with any historical property, the redevelopment process will require adherence to specific guidelines aimed at preserving certain elements of the building’s exterior and façade. This ensures that the historical significance and character of the library will be respected even as it undergoes significant changes to serve modern needs.
With a focus on affordability and community vibrancy, San Diego’s redevelopment of the old Central Library has the potential to not only provide necessary housing but also invigorate the downtown area, making it more accessible and inclusive for all residents.
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Additional Resources
- NBC San Diego
- CBS 8
- San Diego Union-Tribune
- Fox 5 San Diego
- 10 News
- Wikipedia: San Diego
- Google Search: San Diego housing redevelopment
- Google Scholar: San Diego affordable housing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: San Diego
- Google News: San Diego Central Library
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
