The ASM Global-backed consortium bidding to redevelop the Pechanga Arena site in San Diego has outlined a plan that includes a new arena and more than 3,000 homes.
Discover Midway, which features Affirmed Housing, ASM Global, Brookfield Properties and National CORE, has detailed proposals for a destination that includes 3,280 onsite affordable and market rate rental homes, a reimagined Sports Arena venue, a local tenant focused retail Mercado, contemporary office space, parks and green space and a comprehensive community benefits package
Discover Midway is in competition with the Discover Midway+ group, which includes architectural firm Populous, venue developer Oak View Group (OVG) and entertainment group Live Nation, for the tender to redevelop the site under the City of San Diego. Discover Midway won the right to redevelop Pechanga Arena last year, but a challenge concerning affordable housing led to the process beginning again.
The Discover Midway team said it plans to integrate and transform the Sports Arena into a modernised and reimagined venue that will attract global talent, host marquee sporting events and facilitate community gatherings. The team envisions rotating local public art exhibits, community events and activations including a theatre collaboration with the San Diego Opera and other local institutions to ensure usage throughout the year.
“Our plan for the Sports Arena will meet the modern-day expectations of a premier sports, entertainment and events experience while honouring the venue’s storied history,” said Chuck Steedman, executive vice president of strategy and business development for ASM Global.
“Through an expanded concourse, world-class exterior design with indoor and outdoor connections, a multitude of food and beverage options, refreshed interior amenities, and environmentally sustainable features, there are endless possibilities for creating new memories.”
Discover Midway’s plan would see housing for around 6,500 residents, of which 25-32 percent are designated as affordable not to exceed 60 percent Area Median Income (AMI). Starting in the initial stages of construction, the team will prioritise the creation of affordable and market rate housing.
The plan also includes more than 11 acres of dedicated parks and other expansive outdoor spaces complete with programming amenities. A new, curated Mercado will feature dynamic programming of local-centric retail, food and beverage and services that will showcase local-area entrepreneurs.
Midway Village+ plans include a new 15,000-capacity sports and entertainment facility, expandable to 17,500, that will seek to attract professional sports teams, esports events, and leading entertainment events.
