The city of San Diego is planning the future of the College Area. City leaders recently released the second draft of the College Area Community Plan, which includes a plan for more housing, greenspace and safety improvements.
The second draft incorporates feedback received from the first draft and citywide goals.
“The College Area Community Plan Update is critical to ensuring this community grows sustainably over the next 30 years and in a way that best serves its residents,” San Diego Planning Director Heidi Vonblum said in a statement posted on the city’s website.
The city highlighted the points below on their website:
- Increased opportunities for new homes, businesses and community amenities in focused, mixed-use and transit-oriented village areas
- A mobility framework that prioritizes the comfort and safety of all road users, including bicyclists, pedestrians and transit riders
- Streets designed with wide sidewalks, shade trees and landscaping that promote pedestrian activity and support local businesses
- New public spaces planned for the community, including a linear park along Montezuma Road
Some people NBC 7 spoke with agree with the plan’s objectives.
“I think it’s important,” said Kaylee Jimenez, who lives in College Area. “It’s definitely needed, like more housing, more parking, more crosswalks.”
Some people object to the plan’s goal of increasing housing density.
“I’m frustrated, and I’m angry,” said Jim Jennings, who lives in the area. “It ruins the character. There is going to be no character.”
Jennings said he is voicing his opinion with the city through its online comment section.
“I have been doing that, and I don’t know how far it will go because I don’t think the city is listening to us,” Jennings said.
The public has until Sept. 7 to comment on the plan via the city’s website.