Revised plans for the Chalcifica accessory dwelling unit (ADU) project in San Diego's Pacific Beach neighborhood have been released by developer Infill Innovation, formerly SDRE, in an effort to gain community support. The project, which aims to address housing needs, faced significant opposition and a preliminary injunction granted in December.
Project Modifications
The initial proposal for 136 units has been reduced to 125 units spread across six buildings. To address concerns about parking, the number of parking spaces will increase from 70 to 126. These changes come after community members filed lawsuits, citing environmental risks and public safety concerns related to wildfire mitigation requirements.
Addressing Cultural Sensitivity
Developers also addressed concerns regarding culturally sensitive land associated with the Kumeyaay Nation, the indigenous people of the San Diego region, by relocating the project and revising the plan. This move aims to acknowledge and mitigate impacts on historically significant areas.
Developer's Statement
Brian Doyle, CEO of Infill Innovation, stated, "Our goal is to move forward with a project that adds much-needed attainable housing units in Pacific Beach while addressing concerns so everyone can benefit." He added, "We want to turn the page from the past. In many ways, I understand the neighbors’ frustrations, but this is a new company with a new direction and experienced leadership driving it. We want to work with neighbors and the city to bring something that everyone can benefit from."
The company's former CEO, Christian Spicer, stepped down in April amid the lawsuit and financial difficulties. The Chalcifica project represents Infill Innovation's latest effort to navigate community feedback and legal hurdles in the development of affordable housing solutions.