San Diego State University unveils plan for Mission Valley site

San Diego State University (SDSU) in the US has released its Mission Valley plan covering 166 acres of land, including and surrounding SDCCU Stadium.

The plan features architectural renderings by Carrier Johnson + CULTURE.

It includes housing facilities for upper-division and graduate-level students, faculty and staff; a stadium for collegiate athletics and other entertainment events; commercial office buildings; hotels and retail spaces.

The plan also consists of community parks, open space, and recreation fields, which will represent more than 50% of the location.

SDSU president Sally Roush said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to expand the university in a location that is both close to the main campus and large enough to accommodate the university’s growth needs.

“It is a plan with the heart and spirit of a modern university campus that will serve higher education and the community’s aspirations for the site.”

Site plan consultant and project manager JMI Realty CEO John Kratzer said: “The concept of SDSU Mission Valley is grounded in the guiding principles of creating a true ‘campus feel,’ community engagement, economic return for the region, financing feasibility for the university, and transparency.

“Part of our role as experienced private sector developers is helping guide the public-private partnership aspect, which is at the core of the plan.”

Taking an ‘open space first’ approach, the site will provide access to the trolley and other means of public transportation.

Carrier Johnson design principal Gordon R. Carrier said: “SDSU made it clear to us from the start that a well-executed campus plan on the site must be rooted in environmentally sensitive design that enhances and highlights the San Diego River and creates plentiful open space for the entire community.

“You can see that thoughtful approach reflected in the amenities, from recreation fields to four miles of trails, and a 50-acre community river park.”

In the coming months, the university representatives will present the SDSU Mission Valley plan for feedback from community groups, associations, and professional organisations.