[SD_Phil]

^I walk by that all the time and although there's a rendering it just says it's retail space without naming the retailer(s)

[Derek]

^I walk by that all the time and although there's a rendering it just says it's retail space without naming the retailer(s)

Oh. Just curious. :)


Thanks!

[kpexpress]

saw SOM's presentation for our new state courthouse last night. it is going to be a sick building! working on images to share. completion date 2015, start date sept 2012. i was super impressed!

[mongoXZ]

:previous:

Is the plan you're taking about the one where they'll tear down the old state courthouse (on Broadway?) and build the new one on the same location?

[tyleraf]

saw SOM's presentation for our new state courthouse last night. it is going to be a sick building! working on images to share. completion date 2015, start date sept 2012. i was super impressed!
What is its height supposed to be?

[eburress]

Maybe this is common knowledge and I've just missed all the discussion, but this struck me as funny. Manchester can't get anything done out here in California (like so many others) so he decides to pick up his toys and head to Texas (like so many others).

http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=192117

[BigCityDave]

They are building two retail spaces next to Urban Outfitters. One is leased by Snooze A.M. Eatery.

[mongoXZ]

Maybe this is common knowledge and I've just missed all the discussion, but this struck me as funny. Manchester can't get anything done out here in California (like so many others) so he decides to pick up his toys and head to Texas (like so many others).


Manchester is a developer. Developers develop anywhere they want. Just like Canadian BOSA building a dozen condos in SD. Nothing special there.:shrug:

[HurricaneHugo]

Maybe this is common knowledge and I've just missed all the discussion, but this struck me as funny. Manchester can't get anything done out here in California (like so many others) so he decides to pick up his toys and head to Texas (like so many others).

http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=192117

I would love a building like that here. :(

[laguna]

Texas created 37% of the total jobs in the whole country last year. The businesses move where the regulation is lower and the private economy is encouraged not punished with high taxes and government largess. California has the climate but that doesnt sustain a vibrant economy.

[staplesla]

Texas created 37% of the total jobs in the whole country last year. The businesses move where the regulation is lower and the private economy is encouraged not punished with high taxes and government largess. California has the climate but that doesnt sustain a vibrant economy.

My company recently moved it's headquarters from San Diego to Dallas due to the cheaper cost of doing business there. Most employees were relocated.

[eburress]

Manchester is a developer. Developers develop anywhere they want. Just like Canadian BOSA building a dozen condos in SD. Nothing special there.:shrug:

Oh sure...no doubt about that. Being familiar with Manchester's local struggles though, and the speed and ease with which this Austin tower appears to be happening, it just strikes me as funny.

[kpexpress]

What is its height supposed to be?

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/1.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/2.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/3.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/4.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/5.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/6.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/7.jpg
All images are from SOM SF.

They will demo the old ugly county courthouse on Front and Broadway which will open new development opportunities. After the jail is demo'ed a new park - Civic Square Park - will be built on C and Front.

[mongoXZ]

Impressive indeed. SOM always puts out some good eye catchers. Too bad it'll be hard to see it from a distance given its location in a dense spot.

Thanks kpexpress for posting the pics. All this irrelevant "Texas is a cheap place!" talk was beginning to get out of hand.

[Dale]

I'm guessing at least 350'.

[kpexpress]

I'm guessing at least 350'.

I thought I heard them say 400' tall. I hope it's not shorter than that. Somewhere between 350'-400' would be acceptable, and hope they don't chop off three floors like they did with the federal courthouse.

[kpexpress]

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/g.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/f.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/e.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/d.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/c.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/b.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/a.jpg

[tyleraf]

Wow! SOM never fails to impress. I'm glad it is tall enough to make an impact on the skyline too.

[tommaso]

With the S.D. central courthouse being built, I can tell S.D. is maturing. :) That is really excellent news for downtown. I hope this news is a precursor for more good things to come :) As beautiful as this design is, I believe that the impact on the skyline is an extraordinary accomplishment.

[HurricaneHugo]

Make it a clean 400'. :)

[Leo the Dog]

^^^The 5 looks like a nice flowing river through downtown in the model.

[patriotizzy]

^^^ Ugly building.

[mello]

I thought I heard them say 400' tall. I hope it's not shorter than that. Somewhere between 350'-400' would be acceptable, and hope they don't chop off three floors like they did with the federal courthouse.

Not 3 floors try 10. Remember when it was first announced and approved it was for 26 floors now it is only 16 right? Good work SOM :cheers:

[Lipani]

Not too much news regarding a new Chargers stadium, but the lockout brought about one decent tidbit. From the San Diego Union-Tribune:

Chargers’ special counsel Mark Fabiani Monday said a new labor agreement means the league may resume loaning $100 million or more to help individual teams build a new stadium, but he stressed the money won’t be limitless.

“It’s a huge victory for new stadium efforts in San Diego and elsewhere that the players and owners agreed on a credit system and the next step will be the NFL discussing, and we hope instituting, a new loan program,” Fabiani said. “That will give the Chargers at least as much as if not more than we would have been entitled to under the old program.”

He added: “Like the old program, the new program won’t be funded with unlimited amounts of money, and it will be first-come, first-served.”

Under the now-defunct NFL stadium loan program, the Chargers expected the league to give it about $100 million toward construction, Fabiani said.

He declined to speculate on how much money the team might obtain from the league under a new deal or when owners might consider the issue of creating a new stadium construction loan program.

A $100 million league loan would cover about an eighth of the cost of building a stadium east of Petco Park that the Chargers estimate will cost $800 million. How and whether to finance the rest of it, especially in a bad economy, is an open question for Chargers fans and taxpayers alike.
http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/jul/25/fabiani-nfl-deal-a-victory-for-stadium-efforts/

[mongoXZ]

:cheers::D
Horton Plaza park expansion design selected
Cabrillo Theater inspired shape of proposed amphitheater
Written by Roger Showley 3:49 p.m., July 27, 2011

Redevelopment leaders endorsed Wednesday an $8.5 million design that will transform historic Horton Plaza park into one of the city’s largest gathering spaces.


Under a plan due for the final go-ahead in September, the tiny park at Fourth Avenue and Broadway, first established in 1870 by downtown founder Alonzo Horton, would be restored and expanded over the next two years.

An amphitheater that could hold 25,000 concert goers, movie fans and big-event audiences, would be built south of the park and be the site of farmer’s markets, book fairs and informal gatherings 200 times a year, starting with a hoped-for New Year’s Eve dedication on Dec. 31, 2013.

“The schedule is aggressive and you’ve made a lot of progress,” said Kim Kilkenny, chairman of the Centre City Development Corp. board, during a review with the Portland, Ore., design team headed by landscape architect Douglas Macy.

Macy said the 1.2-acre space, nearly four times the size of the present park, will be “transformative in the identity of the core of the city.”

http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/jul/27/horton-plaza-park-expansion-design-selected/

http://media.signonsandiego.com/img/photos/2011/07/27/Aerial_Perspective_2_3_r620x349.JPG?75d51d0aea2efce5189afce216053cbc530c46a8

http://media.signonsandiego.com/img/photos/2011/07/27/nighta_crop_t593.jpg?f53c1bb70f629018cec0bd6246c82dae770b93ac

[tyleraf]

It is nice to see the horton plaza project moving along quickly. It also seems 15th and Island will be approved soon as well. Nice to see some new projects in downtown after a few years of nothing. Also as the NEVP moves forward discussions are reopening on the Lane Field project. http://www.sandiegoreader.com/weblogs/news-ticker/2011/jul/26/new-plans-for-lane-field/

[laguna]

Unless the city can figure out how to clean out the vagrants, it will soon be overwhelmed by them, as this area is now.

[kpexpress]

:cheers::D

I attended this meeting, it was great. Still I am amazed at some of the dumb and meticulous comments that some members of the public make. Why does this city hate public restrooms so bad? A developer could come in and propose an amazing and iconic observatory needle of some sick kind and people will hate it if it has a public restroom in it. Amazing.

[kpexpress]

It is nice to see the horton plaza project moving along quickly. It also seems 15th and Island will be approved soon as well. Nice to see some new projects in downtown after a few years of nothing. Also as the NEVP moves forward discussions are reopening on the Lane Field project. http://www.sandiegoreader.com/weblogs/news-ticker/2011/jul/26/new-plans-for-lane-field/

RE: 15th and Island: Our committee (CCAC) was totally disappointed that the developer did not incorporate a single change suggestion that came out of our predesign review subcommittee, we approved it with conditions to come back at 50% design development for review. I really think a few changes are still necessary with it in order for it to be more successful and less massive and austere.

[Grumbo Griel]

RE: 15th and Island: Our committee (CCAC) was totally disappointed that the developer did not incorporate a single change suggestion that came out of our predesign review subcommittee, we approved it with conditions to come back at 50% design development for review. I really think a few changes are still necessary with it in order for it to be more successful and less massive and austere.

Kpexpress, I don't have much sense of how these things work, but I'm pretty curious about 15th and Island. Is this project at a stage where we can say it will definitely be built? So many projects have died in the last few years that I can't quite wrap my mind around such a huge project going forward, especially in such a non-prime spot...

[kpexpress]

Kpexpress, I don't have much sense of how these things work, but I'm pretty curious about 15th and Island. Is this project at a stage where we can say it will definitely be built? So many projects have died in the last few years that I can't quite wrap my mind around such a huge project going forward, especially in such a non-prime spot...

The project will be built in two phases starting with the Yellow tower first. I feel what you're saying with being doubtful on any of these projects getting built, but the developer on this project has entered into an agreement to build the park on the site as well and that makes me feel that this one will be getting built.

[tyleraf]

The project will be built in two phases starting with the Yellow tower first. I feel what you're saying with being doubtful on any of these projects getting built, but the developer on this project has entered into an agreement to build the park on the site as well and that makes me feel that this one will be getting built.

Well that is good news it is about time San Diego gets a new tallest building.

[kpexpress]

Well that is good news it is about time San Diego gets a new tallest building.

Won't be new tallest. And I'm not sure if that portion of the city is a good place to have a 480+' high-rise, and two of them within 60' of each other. Don't get me wrong, I love high-rises and density, but got to question what a village should really be like.

[spoonman]

What changes to the building were you and CCAC hoping to see?

[S.DviaPhilly]

Won't be new tallest. And I'm not sure if that portion of the city is a good place to have a 480+' high-rise, and two of them within 60' of each other. Don't get me wrong, I love high-rises and density, but got to question what a village should really be like.

I thought these towers will be the tallest buildings downtown since both of them will be over 500'. I LOVE this project because high density projects in East Village will make that whole area so much more vibrant. I feel for the homeless, but I am getting tired of the drug deals and crime that my area has. The only place to buildout downtown is by moving east and when these tall buildings get built in EV the skyline will look amazing! In regards to a village, there shouldnt be any downtown...build tall and then build taller!

The project on 13th and market, I feel is a complete disaster. That parcel of land should be used to build a more dense, taller building with condos, not rentals. With the future park right there, it is a shame that the builder is just trying to throw something up there thats easy and quick (completely my opinion, not a fact.) They should take some time and build a tower that has some real "WOW" factor. We need more condos downtown, not rentals. The inventory for condos for sale downtown has dropped below 300 units, when last year it was almost double that!

[HurricaneHugo]

What future park are you guys talking about?

[HurricaneHugo]

Also more news on the Chargers Stadium.

http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/jul/30/chargers-eyeing-a-more-costly-san-diego-stadium/

Also item 334 on the City Council's agenda, stolen from the Chargers forum.

https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&p...lZjQw&hl=en_US

Item 334 of Tuesday afternoon's August 2, 2011, City Council Agenda for "Assignment and Assumption Agreement related to the Expansion of the San Diego Convention Center."

Instead of the San Diego Convention Center Corporation (SDCCC) and/or the Port of San Diego being in charge of all the CEQA and Entitlement issues; the City of San Diego (Mayor Sanders and the City Council) will now be the decision makers for the Convention Center Expansion; and One Park Boulevard LLC (a Delaware Corporation) will be in charge of the private luxury 500 room hotel. This new arrangement separates the public project from the private luxury hotel. Great news.

Previous decision makers at the SDCCC and the Port for the new luxury hotel and Convention Center Phase III Expansion, included Steve Johnson of SDCC and Steve Cushman for the Port. Both these non-elected decision makers refused to analyze the potential of a dual Stadium Convention Center and NFL Stadium as a Project Alternative for CEQA.

The decision to not acknowledge that a mutli-purpose Event Center is a possibility, is a great reason to take these non-elected people out of the decision making process, and give power back to our elected officials (City Council and Mayor Sanders). Hopefully with a change of Decision Makers to the City Council and Mayor Sanders, will allow the idea of a multi-purpose Stadium and Convention Center Phase III Expansion to be analyzed as a potential Alternative Project in the ongoing CEQA documentation. Plus a Waterfront location for an NFL Stadium would be considered Contiguous Convention Center space. A location for a stadium on the east side of the train tracks in the East Village would not be considered Contiguous for meeting purposes.

[HurricaneHugo]

Won't be new tallest. And I'm not sure if that portion of the city is a good place to have a 480+' high-rise, and two of them within 60' of each other. Don't get me wrong, I love high-rises and density, but got to question what a village should really be like.

It's a city's downtown not a village.

East Village is just a name!

[kpexpress]

What changes to the building were you and CCAC hoping to see?

biggest concern was the daunting mass of this project and it's context. The towers have zero step backs and do little to 'disappear' into the sky. The repetitious balconies are always hated int he community, and no one was fond of the color scheme. Also people felt that the proximity of the two towers to each other looks like an unnecessary mass and would feel uncomfortable to live in - a few suggestions were floated to rotate the buildings so they're not perpendicular to each other (like Harbor Club). Others had concerns with the ground level retail and the pediment of the building. Some changes were offered that addressed the ground level and pediment, but the towers still look elementary, ugly and massive. I've coined them as Optimus Prime and Bumble Bee

[kpexpress]

I thought these towers will be the tallest buildings downtown since both of them will be over 500'. I LOVE this project because high density projects in East Village will make that whole area so much more vibrant. I feel for the homeless, but I am getting tired of the drug deals and crime that my area has. The only place to buildout downtown is by moving east and when these tall buildings get built in EV the skyline will look amazing! In regards to a village, there shouldnt be any downtown...build tall and then build taller!

The project on 13th and market, I feel is a complete disaster. That parcel of land should be used to build a more dense, taller building with condos, not rentals. With the future park right there, it is a shame that the builder is just trying to throw something up there thats easy and quick (completely my opinion, not a fact.) They should take some time and build a tower that has some real "WOW" factor. We need more condos downtown, not rentals. The inventory for condos for sale downtown has dropped below 300 units, when last year it was almost double that!

The elevation drawings showed the height as somewhere in the ballpark of 518'. I asked CCDC Staff about this and they said that elevation was not from finished grade, it was from sea level (possibly a Canadian thing). The actual height will be around 460-480'.

[kpexpress]

It's a city's downtown not a village.

East Village is just a name!

There are definite areas within downtown - each with their own focus, energy, livability and character. The Downtown Community Plan prescribes varying FAR for areas depending on various information (park solar access overlay, existing conditions, designated housing, commercial, etc.) Surely the entire downtown cannot be built out to 500' above finished grade, imagine the transition to Golden hill, Barrio and Bankers Hill. The East Village does have it's areas where density is needed and desired. And the issue isn't even density - all density is good and the more the better. I'm talking more about the mass and scale of the buildings and how they fit into the neighborhood equation. Fact: M2i has more density than Strata. They are completely different and affects the neighborhood differently. I think we need to start asking ourselves what is the East Village? Is it an overflow for Gaslamp activity and Convention Center? Is it the center for condensed social services? Is it an area for universities and education? Is it the blank canvas for large-scale entertainment development (ir nascar, football, etc). Should the entire East Village be blanketed with dubai-style skyscrapers where none are unique and stand out? I like the prospects of an expansive village of mid-rise and high density buildings with a few key signature heights like down Market Street and along the Bay.

[S.DviaPhilly]

Fact: M2i has more density than Strata. They are completely different and affects the neighborhood differently. I think we need to start asking ourselves what is the East Village? Is it an overflow for Gaslamp activity and Convention Center? Is it the center for condensed social services? Is it an area for universities and education? Is it the blank canvas for large-scale entertainment development (ir nascar, football, etc). Should the entire East Village be blanketed with dubai-style skyscrapers where none are unique and stand out? I like the prospects of an expansive village of mid-rise and high density buildings with a few key signature heights like down Market Street and along the Bay.

It's true that M2i may be more dense than Strata, but M2i (market 2 island) takes up a whole city block, where Strata is just a part of a city block. You have the Meade Durket (sp?) office building, Hotel Indigo, the smaller older building next to the hotel, and a couple parking lots that could be developed in the future. I feel that when you have a city setting, building high is the way to go, there is only so much land downtown to build. I am not saying build everything the same or exactly 500', but midrises in EV should be a thing of the past. Thinking into the future, midrises should stay in Bankers Hill, Hillcrest, North Park, Golden Hill, Barrio, etc. I can see shorter buildings lining the new football stadium downtown where hopefully the pedestrian paths will be.

I have a friend that works at The Hard Rock cafe and he told me that his boss said conventioneers are going more east towards EV instead of north on 4th/5th because of all the new bars/restaurants there. J st. to me will be the new happening place in downtown.

Also,I think comparing San Diego's East Village to Dubai is a little dramatic since we have a height variance of 500' and the towers in Dubai are hitting upwards of 1500'/2000'.

[S.DviaPhilly]

ALSO, HOW CAN WE START AN EMAIL CAMPAIGN TO GET A TARGET IN THE OLD BORDERS BUILDING AND A TRADER JOES IN THE BRICK BUILDING ACROSS FORM PETCO (WHERE FRESH AND EASY WAS GOING TO GO)

I think it will be big enough, since the commercial spaces next to the Borders Building are also vacant. There is plenty of parking too with Horton and Park it on Market and there is a loading dock. We need a Target downtown, I am tired of going to Mission valley.

The Trader Joes would kill it on J st. and there is a parking lot across the street that they can set up a one hour deal or something there. Baseball fans could run in right b4 the game and get food too. Have the garage doors open, so the place is open and airy, would be soooo cool! Lets make downtown for residences too, not just tourists!

[mongoXZ]

:previous:The Borders building is too small for a Target, no?

Here's a pretty shot from the U-T. Can't wait for Lane Field and Navy Broadway complexes to fill up the gaps:tup:
http://media.signonsandiego.com/img/photos/2011/06/13/UTI1558781_t593.jpg?f53c1bb70f629018cec0bd6246c82dae770b93ac
signonsandiego.com

[Lipani]

Yeah, that building is way too small for a Target. Thankfully we already have enough CVS and 711 stores downtown. :haha:

[Derek]

I could see like a "mini" Target. That would be a good idea actually. A smaller "urban" Target....


I'm a genius. :jester:

[S.DviaPhilly]

:previous:The Borders building is too small for a Target, no?

True, I agree that the Borders building is too small for a Target, but all the retail on that block up until Sidebar on Market St. is available. If a target took up all the available space and the Borders building, I think that could be a decent size! That block sleeps a lot of people and has graffiti all over the brick and windows of the old Vantage Point sales office. A Target would make that block shine!

[Lipani]

Mayor gets convention center control
But redevelopment referendum drive may figure into future plans
Written by Roger Showley

The City Council handed over management Tuesday to Mayor Jerry Sanders of the $550 million San Diego Convention Center expansion.

But its future, a new downtown stadium and other redevelopment efforts may be in question with word that a statewide redevelopment referendum effort has been authorized.

The convention center project until now has been overseen by the San Diego Convention Center Corp., a city-appointed body that runs the 22-year-old facility downtown. Officials hope to finance it with fees charged on local hotels and to complete the project in 2015.

The Chargers have talked about combining the stadium with the convention expansion project into a sports and entertainment district and using redevelopment funds to help in the financing, projected at $800 million plus site development.
Rest of article from the Union-Tribune (http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/aug/02/mayor-gets-convention-center-control-redevelopment/)

[tyleraf]

Public workshops for Lane Field and NEVP coming up. http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/aug/02/port-planning-meetings-look-economics-new-park-wat/

[HurricaneHugo]

Rest of article from the Union-Tribune (http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/aug/02/mayor-gets-convention-center-control-redevelopment/)

I'm guessing this is good news?

[SDfan]

I hope NEVP and Lane Field pick up some speed...

[LosAngelesDreamin]

:cheers::d

i love it!! =d

[NOPA]

I could see like a "mini" Target. That would be a good idea actually. A smaller "urban" Target....


I'm a genius. :jester:

We already thought that one up in SF ;-)

http://articles.sfgate.com/2010-11-19/business/24839801_1_target-spokeswoman-city-target-china

The SF Target will be 85,000 square feet, down from Target's typical 175,000. Considering that the 6th street Borders site is only 33,000 it seems like a stretch.

[LosAngelesDreamin]

We already thought that one up in SF ;-)

http://articles.sfgate.com/2010-11-19/business/24839801_1_target-spokeswoman-city-target-china

The SF Target will be 85,000 square feet, down from Target's typical 175,000. Considering that the 6th street Borders site is only 33,000 it seems like a stretch.

Los Angeles is doing the same ;) Pretty neat

http://blogdowntown.com/2011/04/6207-7fig-to-become-figat7th-as-part-of-revamp

It's in Downtown LA, the place already exists... all they're doing is renovating the place.. and it's including one of Target's first smaller CityTarget stores.

[Derek]

How about a two story Petco? :jester:

[Westsidelife]

Chargers to LA = elephant in the room

I really don't want it to happen, but it's looking more and more likely with each passing day.

[SDfan]

Chargers to LA = elephant in the room

I really don't want it to happen, but it's looking more and more likely with each passing day.

Please take them. We can't afford them. They're asking for a La Jolla lifestyle from a City Heights boy.

[mello]

Chargers to LA = elephant in the room

I really don't want it to happen, but it's looking more and more likely with each passing day.

Come on guys like the City of LA has any money either. AEG is making it look like they can do everything privately but I really think public money will be needed there as well. These things always cost more then projected. The economy is going in to a complete tail spin right now too.

Plus explain to me how AEG can pay for the 500 million dollar franchise fee from the NFL and make a profit on the Chargers being a tenant if they are not at least 50% owners of the team... They can't, and the Spanos family has said time and again they are not willing to sell any significant portion of the team. So this is not going to pencil out for Anschulz and his group with the Chargers.

Before this is all said and done they will shell out at least 1.5 billion dollars so they will want to "own a team" and the Chargers aren't going to give them that option. Where are you getting your info from WestSide? TJ Simers? That guy is a joke, I don't know why he has such a hard on for having the Chargers come to LA. The obvious choice should be the Rams or Jaguars. :cool:

[ChargerFan]

Fat chance. Los Angeles has repeatedly failed to acquire the Chargers or any other team in the NFL. You may get a team some day but it sure as hell wont be our Chargers.

[eburress]

Please take them. We can't afford them. They're asking for a La Jolla lifestyle from a City Heights boy.

The notion that SD can't afford an NFL team would be depressing.

[mongoXZ]

Los Angeles Bills. You heard it here first!

[HurricaneHugo]

Like I said before, I fully believe Spanos will at least put a ballot measure in Nov. 2012 and if that fails then he'll bolt to LA.

Hopefully by then the LA stadium is dead or some other team(s) decided to move there.

[Westsidelife]

^ The former isn't going to happen. Farmers Field is pretty much a foregone conclusion at this point (it's been so for a long time); the only thing left is for a team to commit. If AEG's deal with the city falls through for whatever reason, there's still Ed Roski's proposal in the City of Industry to fall back on. But it's too good of a deal for the city to pass up.

I don't know if you're aware of this, but the EIR is expected to be done by the Spring of next year; Leiweke hopes to break ground on June 1st. So, it might be too little too late by then. Ideally though, Spanos would give SD one last chance before deciding to leave. Hopefully the Rams are here by then, as that has always been my preference.

[Lipani]

Like I said before, I fully believe Spanos will at least put a ballot measure in Nov. 2012 and if that fails then he'll bolt to LA.

Unfortunately we won't know if we last that long until after the off-season. The Chargers have until what? June of each year to terminate their lease? That's a long time to wait out considering that AEG will probably start construction on their stadium in Downtown LA next year.

Let's hope the legislature doesn't get bought off again like they were with Roski's deal to avoid state environmental laws. Ah, that's right... We're in California... I wonder where this is going? :haha:

[SDfan]

The notion that SD can't afford an NFL team would be depressing.

We can,t even afford basic services, let alone an NFL team, haha. That is depressing!

[HurricaneHugo]

http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/aug/16/sanders-plans-us-tour-for-chargers-stadium-ideas/

Sanders planning US tour of stadiums.

In his strongest show of support yet for building the Chargers a new football stadium, San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders and three advisers will leave Wednesday for a three-day nationwide tour of downtown sports and entertainment districts to get ideas for what might work locally.

They'll visit Indianapolis, Kansas City, Mo., and Denver.

"The mayor doesn't want to make any decision in a vacuum," aide Darren Pudgil said. "He wants to see what other cities have done to see whether they've succeeded and where they may have failed. There's no need to reinvent the wheel if there are concepts out there that we think may benefit San Diego."

[Derek]

I think Seattle would be a good place to visit, but that's just me. :eek:

[ucsbgaucho]

I think Seattle would be a good place to visit, but that's just me. :eek:

Seattle's the best example and closest to our situation... sort-of rundown area of downtown, new baseball stadium was built, that area was transformed with new restaurants and clubs, and a few years later a new football stadium essentially next door. But maybe these other cities have the basketball arena component, which is an idea that should be explored here along with the Chargers stadium. Building a multi-purpose indoor arena with the football stadium should be considered for sure. NCAA tournaments, more concerts, etc. And potential NBA or NHL team.

[mello]

^^^ Exactly look at LA they have the Nokia Theatre and Staples center and Disney Concert Hall. Our downtown needs at least one quality new venue comparable to those 3.

[mongoXZ]

:dancing:

San Diego's first step towards street-car glory

Vintage trolley rolling out; 1949 all over again
http://media.signonsandiego.com/img/photos/2011/08/17/VintageTrolley_r620x349.jpg?75d51d0aea2efce5189afce216053cbc530c46a8

Starting on Thursday, it will be 1949 all over again.

Tomorrow morning at 11 a.m., the Metropolitan Transit System will take the wraps off its painstakingly and lovingly restored 1949 streetcar, old PCC 529.

1949 also happens to be the year when San Diego abandoned its extensive trolley network in favor of launching a modern bus system.

The kelly green, plum and crème colored Art Deco vehicle which once operated on the streets of San Francisco is one of five that the MTS has in its possession. For six years, volunteers and rail experts have spent more than 3,000 hours and $850,000 to meticulously restore the vintage Trolley.

PCC 529 will operate on weekends and certain holidays starting Aug. 27 on a special downtown circuit called the Silver Line, a clockwise loop starting at the 12th & Imperial Transit Station and running to America Plaza, east on C Street to City College before returning to 12th & Imperial.

The car may look stylishly old but it has been completely retrofitted to conform with modern requirements and technology. The fare, however, will harken back to an earlier time: $2, and $1 for seniors. Cash only.

http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/aug/17/vintage-trolley-be-unveiled-service-begins-aug-27/

[OneMetropolis]

Fat chance. Los Angeles has repeatedly failed to acquire the Chargers or any other team in the NFL. You may get a team some day but it sure as hell wont be our Chargers.



are you sure about that? The reason that AEG hasn't made a move yet was because the NFL lockout so yeah its a matter of time.

[kpexpress]

anyone hear about the Greyhound moving to a temporary facility in the East Village. Does this mean that Sofia Hotel phase 2 is ready to go?

[SDfan]

anyone hear about the Greyhound moving to a temporary facility in the East Village. Does this mean that Sofia Hotel phase 2 is ready to go?

There's a phase two? Wha??

[SD_Phil]

Anyone know what's up with the eyesore on 6th and redwood? It's sat unfinished for years and yet I walked by today and there's a new fence around it, a trailer/office on site and what is clearly some new cement. Is this FINALLY going to see the light of the day?

[tyleraf]

I just drove by it last week and was wondering the same thing.

[HurricaneHugo]

Went to Hoffman's retirement celebration on Sunday.

Where the hell did this building come from lol

http://i.imgur.com/EPLCD.jpg?6167

[brantw]

I'm pretty sure that's the new Father Joe's Village building.

[kpexpress]

Went to Hoffman's retirement celebration on Sunday.

Where the hell did this building come from lol

http://i.imgur.com/EPLCD.jpg?6167

Father Joes. I'm touring it in two weeks. I think it's a huge missed opportunity, has anyone seen the view down Logan Ave toward downtown? This building acts as a focal point at the end of Logan right where Commercial and 16th Ave meet. The fact that, from the Barrio, you're looking downhill directly into this building it had an amazing opportunity to be a prominent feature and act as a landmark or a gateway into Downtown. I like the color scheme though, but it could've benefitted from some shading strategy on the South and West facades for performance and visual intrigue.

[HurricaneHugo]

You know, a nice stadium would look great right there!

[Urbanize_It]

ALSO, HOW CAN WE START AN EMAIL CAMPAIGN TO GET A TARGET IN THE OLD BORDERS BUILDING AND A TRADER JOES IN THE BRICK BUILDING ACROSS FORM PETCO (WHERE FRESH AND EASY WAS GOING TO GO)

I think it will be big enough, since the commercial spaces next to the Borders Building are also vacant. There is plenty of parking too with Horton and Park it on Market and there is a loading dock. We need a Target downtown, I am tired of going to Mission valley.

The Trader Joes would kill it on J st. and there is a parking lot across the street that they can set up a one hour deal or something there. Baseball fans could run in right b4 the game and get food too. Have the garage doors open, so the place is open and airy, would be soooo cool! Lets make downtown for residences too, not just tourists!

I would prefer a BevMo in that location! : )

[kpexpress]

You know, a nice stadium would look great right there!

I think everyone here thinks I'm against a downtown stadium. I'm not...exactly. I just think that this location is not the best place for it. It would be better placed on the West side of the MTS building built over the rail yards squeezed between MTS and the Hilton. Rerouting Harbor drive.

[OneMetropolis]

DT Central Library update



http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6188/6098331869_a547cfe5a5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/61459454@N05/6098331869/)
San Diego Central Library Underconstruction (http://www.flickr.com/photos/61459454@N05/6098331869/) by OneMetropolis (http://www.flickr.com/people/61459454@N05/), on Flickr


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6188/6098331869_a547cfe5a5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/61459454@N05/6098331869/)
San Diego Central Library Underconstruction (http://www.flickr.com/photos/61459454@N05/6098331869/) by OneMetropolis (http://www.flickr.com/people/61459454@N05/), on Flickr



http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6078/6098878860_2699abd17a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/61459454@N05/6098878860/)
IMG_0056 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/61459454@N05/6098878860/) by OneMetropolis (http://www.flickr.com/people/61459454@N05/), on Flickr

Father joe hi rise

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6069/6098331921_559675747e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/61459454@N05/6098331921/)
Father Joe Village Hi-Rise - DT San Diego (http://www.flickr.com/photos/61459454@N05/6098331921/) by OneMetropolis (http://www.flickr.com/people/61459454@N05/), on Flickr

[HurricaneHugo]

Anybody know what's being built between 4th and 5th just to the north of Washington?

Assuming an expansion to Scripps Mercy but I want to know how tall lol.

Also what's with that weird house in the middle of the construction site, guessing it's historical or something.

[kpexpress]

I love this thing.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/dots.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/bridge2.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/bridge.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/bridge5.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/bridge4.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/bridge3.jpg

[mongoXZ]

Some tidbits on the San Diego Airport expansion
ksyNRsLSm8Y

[HurricaneHugo]

I survived the great power outage of '11!

[tyleraf]

That was so wierd. I went downtown and all there was on was the red lights on the buildings for the airport and a few lights on generators.

[Lipani]

Did anybody else notice a funky smell downtown today? It was like... fried puke.

[kpexpress]

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/IMG_0073.jpg

Snapped this shot during the blackout.

[Derek]

Looking at that picture, I wouldn't have thought there was a blackout. :P



It's awesome how you can see the stars though!

[HurricaneHugo]

Can I steal this picture and post it on FB (properly credited of course!)?

Also where is that glow coming from?

[kpexpress]

Looking at that picture, I wouldn't have thought there was a blackout. :P



It's awesome how you can see the stars though!


this one's a bit more obvious.
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/IMG_0061.jpg

[kpexpress]

Can I steal this picture and post it on FB (properly credited of course!)?

Also where is that glow coming from?

Yeah I don't mind. The glow is coming from cars I guess. Street lights were out, but office buildings and some hotels were on backup gens.... condo towers were all dark, but every little red light (for FAA purposes I assume) was lit. INteresting night.

[kpexpress]

So sorry to overload everyone with pics. I have been taking a photography class and I have been taking more pictures than I usually do and I guess I am just eager to post some of the one's that I think people on here would enjoy.

Here you go...

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/ScreenShot2011-09-11at122256AM.jpg
By the way, this is my favorite tree in all of downtown - it's gigantic! Easily 50 to 65 feet taller than your average street tree. Cool stuff.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/ScreenShot2011-09-11at122307AM.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/ScreenShot2011-09-11at122325AM.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/ScreenShot2011-09-11at122339AM.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn60/kpexpress42/ScreenShot2011-09-11at122318AM.jpg

[mello]

Great stuff Kex, looks like your class is paying off.

[tgbAustinite]

great pix kp! but two things:
1)don't apologize for posting pix of our wonderful city
2)it's not possible to overload the thread w/ your great pix

thanks!:cheers:

[bmfarley]

Good stuff. Love the pictures.

[tyleraf]

CCDC finally updated their interactive map and I saw this!! 11th & Broadway (http://www.ccdc.com/projects/major-downtown-projects/projects-landing-page/east-village/1147-11th-a-broadway.html) Has anyone ever heard of the proposal on 11th & Broadway?

[patriotizzy]

The more pictures we get, the merrier.

[SDfan]

CCDC finally updated their interactive map and I saw this!! 11th & Broadway (http://www.ccdc.com/projects/major-downtown-projects/projects-landing-page/east-village/1147-11th-a-broadway.html) Has anyone ever heard of the proposal on 11th & Broadway?

Whoa, not a fan of twins, but this would be excellent filler down on broadway. I like them a lot.

Also, great pictures kp!!