Downtown San Diego Brings in the New Year With Plenty of Options

2014 San Diego 4th of July Fireworks | taken from Coronado | Nathan Rupert  | Flickr

Headed to downtown San Diego to bring in the New Year with beautiful weather and plenty of activities to keep you occupied all night? Maybe you’re already living in your San Diego downtown condos looking for something to do. There are a number of parties and events to attend if you’re watching the ball drop from one of America’s most beautiful cities. Here are just a few places for you to go and present your New Year’s Eve outfits.

VIP Nightlife and San Diego Nightlife are hosting a Great-Gatsby themed party featuring four local DJs entertaining crowds with music from various genres. The party is located at InterContinental San Diego and tickets can be purchased online for $249. There will be a prepaid bar open for five hours. Guests are requested to dress up in their best 1920s attire. 

United Cafeteria | A 1920s postcard view of the United Cafet… | Flickr

Another 1920s-themed celebration will be held at the Lafayette Hotel on Cajon Boulevard. Different from the Gatsby-themed party, the Lafayette Hotel sets their New Year’s celebration in 1920s Paris where guests will assume a persona from ‘The Lost Generation.’ The party kicks off at 9:00 PM and tickets can be purchased at the hotel’s website for $100 each. 

Looking for something a little more within budget? Watch the ball drop from one of San Diego’s most popular rooftop bars: Altitude Sky Lounge. The champagne will be pouring freely as guests enjoy music from a live DJ and the view of downtown San Diego. Tickets for the event at the Gaslamp Quarter are available online for $50. The fun begins at 8:00 PM. 

Last but not least, the Hilton San Diego Bayfront is hosting their annual ‘Big Night San Diego’ event starting at 8 PM. San Diego locals know that this is the party of the evening. Special guests include Susan, Croatia Squad, Coast Club, Miss Ninja, and more. There will be 10 party areas, eight dancefloors, and plenty of food and beverages. Tickets for the event start at $105, but are expected to increase as the event nears. Tickets include entertainment, drinks, and access to the buffet. 

As you can see, there’s always something going on downtown San Diego, with New Year’s Eve being no exception. Grab your tickets, put on your fancy outfits, and come to downtown San Diego to bring in 2022!

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Public Restroom Access Within Five-Minute Walking Distance in Downtown San Diego

Walking down Garnet Ave in Pacific Beach | these two girls w… | Flickr

San Diego has a lot to offer. From their unique dining, their oceanview, and their downtown San Diego condos in walking distance to many amenities or local transportation, it’s no wonder potential investors have their eyes on the area. However, downtown San Diego is not without fault. The state of California has faced a homelessness problem for decades, but with increasing inflation and joblessness, the homeless community continues to grow. 

The city has been criticized in the past for public restroom shortages, resulting in public health threats. In 2017 and 2018, a hepatitis A outbreak in the area disproportionately impacted the homeless population. In response, city officials are proposing plans that would have public restroom access within a five-minute walk from anywhere downtown. 

City officials are currently using city data and mapping tools to help locate where to place hand-washing stations, which will later convert into bathrooms. They have also identified a number of locations to place port-a-potties in an effort to curtail a recent shigella outbreak. They later mapped complaints tracked through the city’s Get It Done app about homeless camps and the area and assessed which areas would benefit from public restrooms the most. 

Port of San Diego's Public Parks | The Port of San Diego's p… | Flickr

The goal was set to have public restroom access within a five-minute walk by the city, and Kirby Brady, the city’s chief innovation officer, said that the plan aligns with a common city planning focus on amenities that are about a quarter mile walking distance. He identified gaps in Little Italy and near Children’s Park, but those gaps will be filled with renovations that include public restroom access. 

City officials are working around the clock to make San Diego more beautiful by the day. While already an attractive area to tourists, life-sciences students, and business owners, city officials are taking necessary steps to address the city’s downfalls. City officials hope to move forward with the plan “as soon as possible,” though a timeline has yet to be set.

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California Housing Officials Announce Plan to Give Downtown San Diego Property a Makeover

Boards cover up the windows of a dilapidated vacant building owned by the state of California in downtown San Diego, Nov. 24, 2021.

California state housing officials announced a plan in mid-November to partner with local developers interested in transforming two blocks of real estate into affordable housing in downtown San Diego. Located right outside of Little Italy, the property is currently owned by the state and includes two vacant buildings, surface parking lots, and an office building where many employees from a number of state departments have worked over the years. 

According to their announcement on Nov. 17, the Department of Housing and Community Development is seeking partners that can build a “mixed-use development” on site. Applications for the 2.7 acres of property will be judged on housing affordability, community development, sustainability, equity, innovation, and feasibility. The state plans to maintain ownership of the property while leasing it to redevelopers for as a little as $1 per year. 

In order to subsidize the affordable housing goal, the state is also interested in innovative financial models. These could include incorporating commercial space, retail, and market rate housing. Executive director of San Diego Housing Federation Stephen Russell said that, while the project will certainly be challenging, he’s excited to see what comes from the process. 

Russel also hopes that the state’s emphasis on sustainability could inspire the city’s first “mass timber” project. Building regulators in the state recently legalized building of up to 18 stories being made out of reinforced wood, which can lower construction costs and has major environmental benefits. However, the practice is relatively new and the materials used for construction are unfamiliar to many developers. 

Little Italy | Jennifer Boyer | Flickr

While the public-private partnership may not result in new San Diego downtown condos, investors in the area should be excited to learn that the state has taken an interest in focusing resources on blighted properties across the state. Housing officials are attempting to complete this project with as little cost to taxpayers as possible, and partnering with private developers is a step in the right direction. Downtown San Diego continues to see renovations, and it appears that officials don’t plan on slowing down anytime soon.

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Comic-Con in Downtown San Diego Attracts Nearly 50,000 Fans

San Diego Comic-Con sign | A San Diego Comic-Con sign at the… | Flickr

Tourists flocked to downtown San Diego this weekend for the first in-person Comic-Con event since its forced cancellation in 2020 due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Thousands of superhero, science fiction, and fantasy fans attended the event at the waterfront San Diego Convention Center for the first time since 2019. The Comic-Con museum, located in Balboa Park, is in walking distance from downtown San Diego condos.

Despite never having to cancel an event since their launch in 1970, governments closed nonessential businesses in an attempt to slow the spread resulting in 2020’s in-person event being cancelled. Comic-Con held an online virtual event in its place, but fans of the conventions didn’t agree that it was an adequate substitute, many choosing to skip out on 2020 altogether.

Fans missed the live event so much, in fact, they set up a memorial for it near the convention center with an altar, flowers, and handwritten messages mourning its cancellation.  

San Diego Comic Con exhibit floor | Exhibit floor at the 201… | Flickr

Attendees were required to wear masks regardless of vaccination status and prove either that they are vaccinated or that they received a negative COVID test within three days of the event. Fans anxiously awaited outside verification tents before entering the convention center. Fortunately, San Diego’s beautiful climate was on full display, with summer-like temperatures in the mid-70s.  

Comic-Con was not the only major event in the state. With 64% of Californians fully vaccinated, people are able to get out and do the things they love to do. The Los Angeles Marathon was held last month after being cancelled last year. Downtown San Diego also has a number of holiday events planned for December. 

As people begin returning back to their regular routines, they will begin traveling to their favorite vacation spots. With everything that downtown San Diego has to offer, the city is expecting the local economy to benefit financially from tourism. With the new threat of a COVID-19 variant, however, certain precautions may be in place for businesses to remain open. Before attending an event, make sure to check out the precautions online so that you’re fully prepared.

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Balboa Park’s Renovations: See What’s Inside

Blue hour in Balboa Park | I was walking around in Balboa Pa… | Flickr

Known as San Diego’s “crown jewel,” Balboa Park is experiencing a number of changes that city officials are deeming the “Balboa Park Renaissance.” A number of projects are nearing completion, while others are in their earliest stages of development. Mayor Todd Gloria led a tour on Thursday, Nov. 18 to show off the park’s facelift and get people excited for the future of Balboa Park. 

Gloria started his tour showcasing the revamping of the San Diego Automotive Museum, Municipal Gym, and the Comic-Con Museum, expected to open soon for Comic-Con Special Edition. The projects are led by the Balboa Park Committee of 100, which is a nonprofit support group for the area. 

The next stop was the House of Pacific Relations International cottages, a section of the park that’s dedicated to showcasing different traditions from a number of cultures. There were nine new additions, completed in August, representing traditions from Chamorros, India, Mexico, Palestine, and others countries that were not previously represented. 

Balboa Park, San Diego, CA | Christmas at Balboa Park | Flickr

The highlight of the tour to some, however, was the Botanical Building, located next to the iconic Lily Pond. The building currently sits as a structure, but construction is expected to begin in January. The building will be completely rebuilt and represent its original 1915 grandeur structure. 

A number of other renovations and spending projects are on their way to Balboa Park, including a complete reimagining of the Children’s Zoo, a $4 million rehabilitation of the Bud Kearns pool, and a landscaping project at the Natural History Museum that will include native plants. Some projects are close to completion while others are in the early stages of development. 

Balboa Park’s facelift is great news for investors seeking downtown San Diego real estate for sale. Prior to the renovations, the park was already an area appreciated by residents and tourists alike. At the completion of these renovations, Gloria hopes that the park will live up to its many expectations.

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San Diego Property Sells for 3.78 Million, Consistent With Asking Price

View from my brother's apartment building in downtown San … | Flickr

It’s not uncommon for investors to look at flipping properties as a means of producing income, and investments in real estate for sale in downtown San Diego could turn major profits. A nine-unit residential apartment property in North Park sold for its complete asking price of $3.78 million, after investors remodeled both the interior and exterior of the property. 

Renovations to the exterior of the property include a contemporary front facade with redwood siding, They also update the electrical work and plumbing, while replacing concrete as needed. Inside of each apartment unit, remodelers installed wood laminate flooring and completely redesigned the kitchens and bathrooms in each unit. 

The seller was represented by Carson Trujillo, a first vice president for Marcus & Millichap in their downtown San Diego office. Marcus & Millichap is a commercial real estate brokerage firm that specializes in financing, research and advisory services, and investment sales. 

The renovated property, located at 4576 Idaho St. in North Park, consists of three two-bedroom units and six one-bedroom units equipped with upgraded kitchen and bathrooms as well as new flooring. The unit does not accept Section 8 applicants and prefers residents be nonsmokers. One small pet is welcome, however, with an additional $500 security deposit.  Off-street parking is available for tenants. 

San Diego - North Park | Bill Dickinson | Flickr

Declared one of the “best hipster neighborhoods” by Forbes, North Park is packed with bars, microbreweries, and other aspects of nightlife. The neighborhood is within walking distance to Balboa Park, San Diego’s largest green space. 

Apartments in the newly renovated unit are likely to be attractive to students moving to the area for its Life & Sciences benefits. While the buyer made a large investment, the payout could potentially be extremely profitable as many businesses relocate to the downtown San Diego area for its many amenities. Investors interested in turning a profit on flipping properties should consider browsing real estate for sale in the area, as interest continues to grow.

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Aztec Stadium Has Vendors and Less Than 300 Days to Complete Construction

Demolition of San Diego Stadium (Qualcomm Stadium) | Flickr

San Diego State University is aiming to complete construction on their newest football stadium in time to host their season home opener against Arizona, scheduled for Sept. 3, 2022, and they have already selected eight food vendors that will partner with Aztec Stadium: Batch & Box, Best Pizza & Brew, Cali BBQ, The Crack Shack, Everbowl, Gaglione Brothers, Hodad’s, and The Taco Stand. 

Having a variety of food options in a relatively new concept for sports stadiums. In fact, it wasn’t until the early 1980s when nachos and churros were first introduced at San Diego Stadium. The move was so momentous, in fact, it made front page news. Prior to the 1980s, stadiums relied on popcorn, peanuts, and hotdogs to satisfy their fans’ cravings during sporting events. 

Recognizing that dining options have become an integral part of the experience, Aztec Stadium secured partnerships with a number of vendors so that fans can enjoy their favorite foods while watching their favorite team compete for the win. Food options range from deserts, New York-style Pizza, Soul Food, cheesesteaks, and even healthy options for any fitness-focused fans. 

Placement of precast concrete will be completed within the next couple weeks at Aztec Stadium.

Construction on Aztec Stadium broke ground on Aug. 17, 2020, with an expected completion date on Sept. 22. San Diego downtown real estate has become of growing interest as the city continues to cater to Life and Science students looking for future careers in the field. San Diego State’s investment in a new stadium designed to host major events with more guests in attendance could add to the growing local economy, and investors are well aware of this.

The first seat in the stadium is expected to be placed by mid-December, a major milestone for the developers. Some 32,999 seats will be placed following the reaching of the milestone. The focus will then shift to digging the field out between January and February, and doing the playing surface between March and April. Despite some minor setbacks, developers are optimistic that construction will be completed by opening day. 

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Spaces as Places: Outdoor Dining Options to Become Permanent in Downtown San Diego

Downtown San Diego from Coronado Island | San Diego, named a… | Flickr

Temporary outdoor dining options produced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic may become permanent in downtown San Diego after the city council conditionally approved the Spaces as Places program on Tuesday, Oct. 26. The program, which was supported by Mayor Todd Gloria,  will allow for outdoor areas created for dining, biking, walking, and other outdoor activities, to become permanent parts of the city’s atmosphere and another reason to invest in downtown San Diego real estate

Gloria, who had previously proposed a permanent outdoor dining program, applauded the council’s 6-2 decision. With nine members on the board, two voted against the program while Chris Cate was absent. Staffers for the city began collecting data from the community earlier in the year on what benefits may arise from the program. They then created requirements and designed a manual for sidewalks, promenades, and outdoor dining on private property. 

On Aug. 4, 2020, the council approved an emergency ordinance that temporarily permitted businesses to offer outdoor operations as a response to the pandemic. The effort was then extended in May to July. Now, the council hopes to make the move permanent. The program will target businesses in areas that are “traditionally underserved” areas to ensure outdoor activities and dining options are equitably distributed throughout the downtown area, according to Mayor Gloria. 

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park | Fiesta de Reyes is … | Flickr

As a result of the pandemic, many restaurants had to convert to outdoor dining options in order to stay afloat during the government lockdowns. People naturally started spending more time outdoors with their friends and families. Council members agree that there should not have to be a pandemic in order for residents of the city to enjoy San Diego’s desirable climate and a meal at the same time. 

Spaces as Places will go into effect for business owners 30 days after the council’s second reading of the ordinance, which will likely happen sometime in November. Before going into effect, the ordinance will also need approval from the Coastal Commission. The plan could serve to boost the city’s local economy while generating revenues for small businesses that suffered financial losses.

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New Park Coming to Downtown Area at No Cost to Taxpayers

Downtown San Diego - Pantoja Park | Pantoja Park, Downtown S… | Flickr

San Diego’s city council approved an agreement on Monday, Oct. 25 that will put a private developer in charge of building and managing a public park across from the San Diego Bay at the former Navy Broadway Complex in the downtown area. Real estate investment trust IQHQ will be in charge of creating the park and managing it through May 31, 2117. 

Terms for the private ownership of the 1.5-acre parcel known as Block 1A were set by the city’s parks and recreation department, which included standards for design, construction and maintenance. Assistant director for the parks and recreation department Karen Dennison said in a statement to the city council that residents will enjoy a “world-class open space” at no cost to the taxpayers, which is good news for anyone interested in downtown San Diego real estate for sale. The city is experimenting with new methods that will produce the same results at little to no cost to taxpayers. 

According to members of council, parks can cost in the millions of dollars to build and maintain. The council believes that IQHQ has incentive to build and maintain a “nice park” because they want to attract and keep tenants at their life sciences campus. They believe that the park will be a nice amenity for companies interested in leasing space at the office building. 

Downtown Waterfront Park | Last night I had a few minutes to… | Flickr

The agreement requires IQHQ to construct a recreational park that is open to the public from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, except when the park is reserved for private purposes. Restrictions permit only half the space to be closed from small to medium-sized events (6,000-20,000 square-feet in space) at a given time. Large events, in contrast, can utilize the entire park for up to five days straight, and are limited to 30 per year. The agreement is good for 96 years. 

The downtown San Diego area is rapidly growing and the city council is making adjustments with how they spend tax revenues. Instead of using tax dollars to build a new park for residents to enjoy, they entered a private-public agreement that grants residents a park without them having to pay more for it. Construction on the park is anticipated to end by the fall of 2023.

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The Cost of Downsizing: Potential Savings During a Pandemic

View from my brother's apartment building in downtown San … | Flickr

A new study from StorageCafe, a self-storage website, revealed that homeowners who downsized to smaller homes or condos benefit from incredible savings, especially in the San Diego metro area. In comparison to 20 of the largest metropolitan areas across the country, homeowners in San Diego joined the second largest amount of savings. Within city limits, homeowners can expect their savings to amount to even more. 

The average cost for a four-bedroom home in the country is more than $910,000, while a two-bedroom home sells for around $570,000. Accounting for the decreased taxes and closing costs, homeowners who downsize can save nearly $264,700 in savings. Homeowners within city limits can stand to save at least $315,000 from downsizing. 

If you’re in the market for a new home or condo in the area, there is currently real estate for sale in downtown San Diego. Many people are deciding to move to the area to utilize its many benefits, beautiful climate, and accessibility to life sciences resources. Mayor Todd Gloria anticipates the population in the area to nearly double over the course of the next two decades. Investments in office buildings indicate that many expect San Diego to be a hotspot for business. 

As a result of the ongoing pandemic, house prices are rapidly increasing. The prices of other goods including gas, vehicles, and groceries are also increasing. Many people who no longer need four-bedroom homes may consider downsizing as money remains tight. This will create a demand for two-bedroom homes in the area, which may cause their prices to inflate as well. The best advice for future homeowners in the downtown San Diego area is to act quickly. 

San Diego California Aerial View - Free photo on Pixabay

The market is forever changing as the federal and state governments continue to figure out how to handle the economic impact of the pandemic. Many who were unable to buy before were renting, but the cost of rent increased as well. The rent increase forced people content with renting into the housing market, with loans available with low interest rates. Downtown San Diego is a popular area where desired housing won’t last long on the market.

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