A proposed high-rise apartment building in Middletown has sparked significant backlash from local residents, who are voicing concerns about potential traffic issues, loss of parking, and safety hazards.
This situation mirrors a wider trend occurring throughout San Diego, where numerous neighborhoods are banding together to resist dense construction projects.
The proposed building, known as Celine Residences, is a 14-story development featuring 161 units.
ELDA Developments, the company behind the project, has faced intense scrutiny and community opposition, leading to the CEO, Ahmed Eldahmy, to pause plans temporarily.
In an attempt to mend relationships with the community, Eldahmy decided to rethink the project after significant public outcry.
“I like to go in with the least amount of enemies and the highest number of allies,” he explained, acknowledging the financial implications of delaying the project.
As of now, the redesigned plans have not been publicly revealed, and residents of Middletown continue to rally against the original proposal.
Residents are raising multiple objections, including fears about new residents occupying valuable parking spots, diverting existing free parking, and adding to traffic congestion on already busy streets.
Additionally, locals express concern about limited affordable housing options, potential obstruction of ocean views, and risks related to building on a fault line near the airport.
Scott Case, representing Middletown homeowners on the Uptown Community Planning Group, founded a grassroots organization called Stop Columbia High Rise after discovering the project’s scale through correspondence with a subcontractor.
Case has lived in the neighborhood since 1986 and is generally supportive of new development initiatives.
However, he remarks, “Some of the arguments become binary,” highlighting the tensions between development and community needs.
One resident, identified only as Liz, currently rents an aging single-family home in the area.
She describes the ongoing process as a “nightmare,” fearing that the unique community spirit of Middletown will vanish with the influx of new residents.
“I actually know a lot of my neighbors,” she said, emphasizing the strong bonds formed within the community.
As Liz prepares for her expected relocation in six to twelve months, she doubts she’ll find an affordable place within the neighborhood where she has created meaningful connections.
Another member of Stop Columbia High Rise, Mariana Aguilar, who represents renters on the Uptown CPG, believes the development can be improved and modified.
She suggests a modest redesign—envisioning a three-story building with around 12 units and underground parking that aligns better with the existing low-rise architecture.
Aguilar’s vision reflects a desire for a more community-oriented approach, one that considers the neighborhood’s needs and character.
The community coalition has garnered support from local residents and business owners, united in opposition to ELDA’s luxury apartment proposal.
In collaboration with the San Diego Community Coalition, which advocates for responsible growth, a rally is scheduled at Columbia and Winder streets this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Ahmed Eldahmy, the developer, acknowledges the backlash and has undertaken this project with local ties in mind.
This represents his third endeavor on Columbia Street, following the completion of nine studio units in an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) nearby.
Eldahmy, who spends most of his time in the area due to family and business commitments, expressed that he has a personal affection for the neighborhood.
Despite intentions of creating housing solutions under the Complete Communities Housing Solutions policy enacted in 2020, he did not anticipate that his ambitious 14-story design featuring a rooftop pool would face such fierce resistance from the community.
“When we understood that there is a huge resistance against it … we decided to hit the brakes a little bit and evaluate the situation,” Eldahmy stated, outlining his shift in strategy.
He is currently finalizing a redesign that aims to respond to community concerns while ensuring that the project remains viable and includes parking options.
Aguilar remains cautiously optimistic as the new plans are anticipated; she emphasizes the importance of community engagement and feedback in the development process.
As the balance between city officials pushing for increased housing, rising construction costs, and local opposition continues to create challenges for developers, Eldahmy recognizes the delicate balancing act required in addressing community desires while fulfilling housing needs.
“This is a tricky position to be in,” he said, underscoring the complexity of local development dynamics.
As community members gather to advocate for their needs, the outcome of this ongoing dispute will likely shape future development in San Diego.
image source from：timesofsandiego
