San Diego, February 2, 2026
A proposed 23-story high-rise in Pacific Beach, called the Turquoise Tower, faces significant opposition from local residents and city officials due to its height exceeding coastal regulations. The city of San Diego and developer Kalonymus are at an impasse regarding the project’s approval, complicating the balance between housing needs and neighborhood preservation.
San Diego Developer and City at Impasse Over Turquoise Tower in Pacific Beach
San Diego, CA – A proposed 23-story high-rise, known as the Turquoise Tower, has become a focal point of contention between its developer and the city of San Diego. The project, intended for 970 Turquoise Street in Pacific Beach, has faced significant opposition from local residents and community groups due to its height and density, which exceed the area’s established 30-foot coastal height limit.
Project Details and Community Response
The Turquoise Tower is a mixed-use development comprising 74 residential units—of which only 10 are designated as affordable housing—and 139 hotel rooms, totaling 213 units. The developer, Kalonymus, argues that the project qualifies for automatic ministerial approval under state law, citing its residential composition. However, this interpretation has been contested by city officials and community members who question the project’s compliance with local zoning regulations and its impact on the neighborhood’s character.
Community groups, including Neighbors for a Better California (NFABC), have actively opposed the development, expressing concerns over its scale and potential to set a precedent for future high-rise constructions in the area. The chair of NFABC emphasized the project’s potential to “transform our community forever” and urged city officials to “reject this permit.”
City’s Position and Legal Considerations
In December 2024, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) issued technical guidance advising the city to reject the Turquoise Tower proposal in its current form. The HCD’s letter specifically objected to the proposed nine stories of hotel units in relation to the small number of affordable housing units offered by the project.
Despite this guidance, the developer maintains that the project should receive automatic ministerial approval under state law, potentially bypassing public hearings and city council votes. This stance has led to a legal impasse, with the city continuing to press the developer for additional documentation and clarification on several key issues, including the project’s compliance with local zoning laws and its eligibility for density bonuses.
Current Status and Future Outlook
As of February 2026, the Turquoise Tower project remains under review, with no final decision from the city. The developer’s claim for automatic approval has not been granted, and the city is awaiting further information to assess the project’s compliance with local regulations. The outcome of this development could have significant implications for future high-rise projects in San Diego’s coastal communities, balancing the need for increased housing with the preservation of neighborhood character.
FAQ
What is the Turquoise Tower project?
The Turquoise Tower is a proposed 23-story mixed-use development at 970 Turquoise Street in Pacific Beach, San Diego. It includes 74 residential units and 139 hotel rooms, totaling 213 units. The project has faced opposition due to its height exceeding the local 30-foot coastal height limit.
Why is the project controversial?
The controversy stems from the project’s height and density, which surpass local zoning regulations. Community groups and city officials have raised concerns about its impact on the neighborhood’s character and potential to set a precedent for future high-rise developments in the area.
What is the city’s stance on the project?
The city of San Diego has not approved the project. In December 2024, the California Department of Housing and Community Development advised the city to reject the proposal in its current form, citing concerns over the number of affordable housing units relative to the hotel accommodations. The city is awaiting further information from the developer to assess compliance with local regulations.
What is the developer’s position?
The developer, Kalonymus, argues that the project qualifies for automatic ministerial approval under state law due to its residential composition. This would allow the project to bypass public hearings and city council votes. However, this interpretation has been contested by city officials and community members.
What are the potential implications of this project?
The outcome of the Turquoise Tower project could influence future high-rise developments in San Diego’s coastal communities, balancing the need for increased housing with the preservation of neighborhood character. The decision may set a precedent for how similar projects are evaluated and approved in the future.
Key Features of the Turquoise Tower Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 970 Turquoise Street, Pacific Beach, San Diego, CA |
| Height | 23 stories, exceeding the local 30-foot coastal height limit |
| Residential Units | 74 units, with 10 designated as affordable housing |
| Hotel Rooms | 139 rooms, totaling 213 units |
| Developer | Kalonymus |
| Current Status | Under review; awaiting further information from the developer |
| City’s Position | Awaiting additional documentation; has not approved the project |
| Community Response | Significant opposition from local residents and community groups |
| State’s Position | Advised the city to reject the proposal in its current form |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Developer Seeks Permits for Controversial Pacific Beach Tower
San Diego’s Controversial 22-Story Housing Development Proposal
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
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