Overview: College Area Community Plan Update
The updated plans reflect priorities reportedly identified through years of extensive public engagement, including two draft plan releases, community workshops, and reviews by community planning groups, the Planning Commission, and the Land Use & Housing Committee.
The San Diego City Council on Tuesday approved the College Area Community Plan Update, marking the first comprehensive overhaul of such a community plan for the area in more than 30 years. Councilmembers also approved such a plan for the Clairemont area.
The update sets a long-term vision that reportedly supports increased opportunities for new homes, safer and more connected mobility options, vibrant village centers, and new recreational opportunities.
“Updating community plans means listening to San Diegans, weighing different perspectives, and planning for the future our city needs,” said San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. “The Clairemont and College Area plans reflect years of community input and set a clear path to build more homes, improve safety and mobility, and invest in public spaces that help neighbors stay connected. This is how we grow thoughtfully, create opportunity, and make sure San Diego works for everyone.”
The updated plans reflect priorities reportedly identified through years of extensive public engagement, including two draft plan releases, community workshops, and reviews by community planning groups, the Planning Commission, and the Land Use & Housing Committee.
In the College Area, the plan update supports a mix of options for new homes near San Diego State University and along key corridors, including College Avenue, Montezuma Road, and El Cajon Boulevard, and adds capacity for up to 17,750 homes.
It also plans for new public spaces, including a linear park along Montezuma Road, and streets designed with wide sidewalks, shade trees, and landscaping that promote pedestrian activity and support local businesses.
“This plan is about creating a future for working families and students. With the College Area Community Plan Update, we are saying loud and clear that the status quo—where housing is unaffordable, sidewalks are unsafe, and opportunities feel out of reach—is not acceptable,” said City Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera in a press release. “By planning for more homes near transit and San Diego State, expanding access to parks, and making our streets safer and more walkable, we are investing in a future where current residents see improved quality of life and working families and students can see a great future for themselves and the people they love.”
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