Downtown Stadium Development?
August 13th, 2008 by 
Mike 
NFL, NBA, NHL, even the Olympics in Downtown San Diego? Well, that is the proposal, and it is a big one at roughly a proposed $2 billion. Check out the Article entitled “Developers: Terminal deck could solve woes” The site is the 10th Ave. Marine Terminal just south east of the San Diego Convention Center…some of the most valuable property in all of Downtown San Diego. The proposal is this: “Developing a 96-acre deck over the 10th Avenue Marine Terminal could allow for a new sports arena or stadium, allow for expansion of the convention center and bring new tax revenue in from the waterfront.” The possibilities for use of the site could include a football stadium for the San Diego Chargers, sports arena for NBA and NHL, the expansion of the San Diego Convention Center, and hotel development– or a combination of some or all of the above! This land is currently occupied by a working port terminal. Traditionally, the Port represents one of the most formidable opponents to pro-development of these very valuable areas. They argue the jobs taken away from Port workers would be replaced by lesser paying jobs. I can see that, but could you imagine the impact a development like this could have on the value of Downtown, and San Diego in general. This would solidify our position as major U.S. national city, and if done correctly put us on the map internationally. The project is scheduled to go before a vote November 14 of this year. I look forward to hearing more about this idea, even though I think it is going to be a long shot at best. Check out the Project Renderings provided by The Union Tribune Documents.
Posted in August 2008, Downtown San Diego Real Estate Market Analysis, Downtown San Diego Urban Lifestyle, Downtown San Diego Real Estate | 
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August 15th, 2008 at 9:29 pm
What a great concept for downtown San Diego. This type of development could put it on the path to being a San Francisco.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:01 pm
To Develop or Not to Develop…
As a resident of a (much smaller) city which has recently undergone the same type of citywide battle regarding the development of a major sports complex (see http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_page=2798&u_sid=10298622) I find it easy to play devil’s advocate for each worthy opponent in this debate.
For port employees and all of us affected by overseas imports there are unquestionably things to consider in terms of job loss, availability of deep water ports, etc… which no doubt will affect how economic factors play out currently. These issues cannot be ignored. That being said, myself and the San Diego community would surely expect that those involved are fully capable of putting a plan in place that deals with each and every possible outcome of a new terminal deck; whether positive or negative. I’m hopeful, that should a majority vote decide in favor, that all concerns and issues will be addressed as necessary to make this a constructive experience for all affected.
Furthermore, as a HUGE fan of developments that have the opportunity to catapult cities (big amd small) into exponential growth opportunities, I’m absolutely for the proposed terminal deck! I don’t think anyone can deny the draw of NFL, NBA and NHL sports, let alone the Olympics! Imagine, briefly, the national arena attention on San Diego and what that can do for such a deserving city. The prospects are countless.
However, the argument is raised whether or not the terminal deck is really a current need of the city or just a want. In the case of Omaha (see article above) a new stadium was categorically a need in terms of keeping CWS revenue in the city.
On the other hand… while a new terminal deck may not necessarily be needed as a ’save all’ there is much to be said in the cliche “The bigger the risk, the bigger the gain”. Where would modern day cities be without this mantra constantly challenging developers, architects and the like to create outside of the box and turn everyday cities into sought after destinations?
As with all issues there are two sides to every battle. I think we all can agree that one side cannot win without the input of the other. I encourage those who vote to use their time wisely before casting a ballot on November 14.
Best wishes San Diego!
August 26th, 2008 at 7:52 pm
[…] you have read in previous blogs on our site, there is a proposal for a deck to be built and house convention center space, as well […]