The city of San Diego revealed two competing developer plans for the city-owned Pechanga Arena property Friday and announced it was beginning a virtual open house to gather input on transforming the area into a more pedestrian and transit-friendly environment.
The interactive virtual open house, which will run through July 20, will feature redevelopment design concepts for the public to review.
"This is an opportunity to redevelop and reshape the Sports Arena area for the next generation, and we want to hear what San Diegans think of the proposals under consideration," said Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer. "Revitalizing the Sports Arena is key to our future growth as a city and ensures that it remains one of San Diego's most popular destinations for decades to come."
City officials put out a call out to developers earlier this year seeking ideas for how to redevelop the 48-acre site, which is currently home to the Pechanga Arena San Diego, a Dixieline Lumber & Home Centers store and several smaller commercial buildings. The San Diego Gulls hockey team, Sockers soccer team and Seals lacrosse team all use the arena for home games.
The city received four proposals, but only two met the city's qualifications and were included in the virtual open house. The first proposal, submitted by Brookfield Properties and ASM Global, comprises three conceptual layouts of the property with a refurbished arena, housing, commercial space and parkland.
The second proposal, submitted by a development team led by home construction firm Toll Brothers, includes much of the same features but provides more details on its design. The proposal also includes a temporary modular stadium for the San Diego Loyal soccer team, which would take up a portion of the property during the earlier phases of redevelopment.
Both proposals would almost certainly require city voters to approve raising the 30-foot height limit that covers all of the Midway District. The San Diego City Council is expected to vote on placing such a measure on the November ballot later this month.
The open house is one of several factors outlined and will be considered in selecting the final redevelopment design concept. After city officials select a development team, they will enter negotiations on the land deal.
Go to sandiego.gov/SportsArenaOpenHouse to participate.
