News Summary

Residents of University Heights have come together to protest the proposed construction of a five-story apartment complex that would replace a historic 130-year-old house. The development, which aims to provide 19 residential units, has drawn criticism for its potential impact on the community, particularly concerning affordable housing and parking issues. Community leaders argue that the new construction does not align with the character of the neighborhood and fear it may exacerbate existing problems. The discussion highlights the ongoing tension between development and maintaining community heritage.

University Heights Residents Rally Against Proposed Five-Story Apartment Complex

University Heights residents recently gathered on Meade Avenue to protest against the proposed construction of a five-story apartment building that would replace a 130-year-old house. The plan calls for the building to contain 19 residential units, which has led to significant community concern regarding its impact on the neighborhood.

Marc Johnson, the President of the University Heights Community Association (UHCA), has expressed strong objections to the scale of the project, arguing that it does not fit with the character of the area. The proposed development falls under the Complete Communities Housing Solutions program established by the city of San Diego. This program is designed to incentivize the development of denser housing options near public transit routes, with a particular emphasis on creating affordable housing for low and moderate-income households.

Despite its intent, Johnson contends that the new apartment complex does not effectively address the ongoing affordable housing crisis. He highlights that the project is likely to offer only two units designated as affordable, which he believes is insufficient given the current housing demands. He describes the prospective new construction as consisting mostly of “market rate expensive luxury microunits,” a trend he notes has been prevalent in the area with approximately 1,400 similar units constructed over the past three years.

Residents also voiced practical concerns regarding neighborhood infrastructure, particularly parking. Brian Hargett, a long-time resident of the area, raised issues about existing parking difficulties, questioning how incoming residents of the proposed complex would find adequate parking space. Many community members echoed his sentiments, indicating that the addition of 19 units would exacerbate an already problematic situation.

Community members believe that the demolition of the historic house to make way for the new construction would represent a significant loss to the fabric of the neighborhood. They argue that preserving long-standing homes is essential for maintaining the community’s character and history. The property owner affiliated with the development is linked to a building company, which residents fear may prioritize profit over community needs.

The Complete Communities Housing Solutions program aims to balance development with the need for appropriate housing options in urban areas, but residents are questioning its effectiveness in this instance. They are calling for more deliberate consideration of neighborhood needs in applying this program, especially when it comes to small communities like University Heights.

As residents continue to rally against the proposed project, the UHCA remains active in voicing their concerns to city officials. The association is advocating for community input in the planning process and urging that any new developments should enhance, rather than detract from, the existing character of University Heights.

In response to the community’s concerns, CBS 8 has reached out to the building company linked with the property for comments regarding the proposed development and its implications but has not yet received a response.

As the situation develops, it is evident that the debate surrounding housing density, community character, and affordable housing persists in University Heights, reflecting broader discussions occurring across many urban areas.

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HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• CBS 8
• San Diego Union-Tribune
• Fox 5 San Diego
• Google Search: University Heights housing
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Affordable Housing

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.