The Navy, the Navy’s Southwest Region Command and the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) have entered into new contract to explore development of a major public transit hub to be located at Naval Base Point Loma, The San Diego Union-Tribune reported Wednesday.
The proposed transit station, locally nicknamed as “San Diego Central Station,” would need space allocated at the 70-acre base that overlooks Interstate 5 in Point Loma. It would serve as a future transportation hub that connects all rail types and provides access to San Diego International Airport, according to the report.
“This is the beginning of what I expect to be a long partnership with the Navy,” said Steve Vaus, who chairs the SANDAG board and is the mayor of Poway. “The MOU creates the opportunity for SANDAG and the Navy to do something very special in the region, clearing a path for us to work on a major transportation hub and providing a transit link to the airport,” he added.
Located close to downtown San Diego and its airport, the expansive property could feature millions of square feet of multi-purpose office space as well as multi-family housing towers and some retail.
The Navy eventually plans to seek redevelopment proposals for the property in exchange for new facilities for the installation’s on-base missions, according to the report.
“The Navy remains dedicated to creating a more modern, efficient workspace … while working closely with SANDAG and other entities to foster robust community engagement for this project,” said Capt. Mark Edelson, commanding officer of Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southwest.
Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Derek Harkins