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Council Affirms California Theatre Project
May/June 2021
 c. 1950s California Theatre. Courtesy SOHO |
 Rendering of the Caydon Property Group project incorporating the historic California Theatre. Courtesy San Diego Union-Tribune |
The San Diego City Council unanimously upheld the California Theatre project on April 27 after it was appealed. More than 50 people testified, with a majority in support. Many echoed SOHO's own words in agreeing that this will be a catalyst to revitalize the C Street corridor. Speakers noted the importance of the theater's history, the site's story, and its importance as an architectural landmark.
Developed by Caydon Property Group, this 41-story building includes an authentic reconstruction of three of the theater's facades and an exacting reconstruction of the office tower, the front lobby, and return of the iconic Caliente mural and California blade sign. A unique and long anticipated project for San Diego, it combines historic preservation with a boutique hotel, five levels of underground parking, for-profit housing, and seven onsite, for-sale affordable units approved under San Diego's inclusionary housing ordinance passed in 2020.
The project had made its way through the Downtown Community Planning Council, the Historical Resources Board and the Planning Commission with unanimous approval. Then, after the Council listened to multiple presentations and public comments, Council President pro Tempore Stephen Whitburn led the Council in affirming the project, and ensured these seven affordable units will be built onsite.
The councilmembers' discussion included revisiting the current affordable housing criteria within large projects. Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera commented that adding affordable housing within these types of projects is not how San Diego will meet the need, stating that the city needs to build its own affordable housing.
Thanks to the City Council and everyone who gave their support for this important and exciting project. It is finally coming to fruition!
For more background on this project:
California Theatre: Time for an Encore, Not an Overture
California Theatre Deal Secures Preservation Agreement
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