Midway Rising Development Terms Released for San Diego
San Diego officials unveiled transaction plans for 4,254 housing units and a new arena in the Midway District.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Apartments
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City leaders have released proposed transaction documents for the Midway Rising project, a massive redevelopment initiative that includes 4,254 residential units and a new 16,000-seat arena. The plan prioritizes affordable housing and community infrastructure, aiming to transform the current sports arena site in the Midway District.
Why it matters
The project serves as a cornerstone for local urban planning, aiming to add 2,000 affordable housing units to the area while balancing long-term city revenue through a participation rent structure. It marks a significant shift in land use, moving from the current sports arena lease to a mixed-use development designed for completion by 2050.
The plan requires 2,000 affordable units and projects an $18.4 billion economic impact, supported by $462 million in infrastructure costs against a $75.6 million land value.
The players
San Diego Land Use & Housing Committee
The local government body tasked with reviewing development agreements and housing policy implementation.
The details
The city will transition from the existing sports arena lease to a structure involving a 15-year horizontal ground lease, followed by 85-year vertical ground leases for specific development pads. Funding for the massive infrastructure requirements will be managed through a proposed infrastructure financing district, which is estimated to generate up to $1.16 billion to reimburse construction costs.
Timeline
March 2025: Land fair market value was set.
October 16, 2026: City committee reviews transaction terms.
2029: Expected start date for construction.
2032: Anticipated start for the new arena construction.
2050: Expected completion of the entire project.
The Home Front
This proposal aligns with broader urban redevelopment trends focused on replacing aging public facilities with dense, mixed-income residential zones. It marks a departure from traditional land-disposition deals by prioritizing community assets and affordable housing over immediate cash receipts.
Residents in the Midway District should monitor upcoming committee sessions for details on potential construction impacts to local traffic and utility access near the site. Property owners and renters should keep an eye on project timelines, as large-scale developments often shift local housing supply and infrastructure planning over the next two decades.
The takeaway
The project represents a long-term shift for the area, balancing housing needs with major commercial development. Residents can track the progress of the transaction terms via the Land Use & Housing Committee meetings scheduled for later this year.
Further reading
For more information on local housing initiatives, visit San Diego Apartments.
Source note: This article includes information reported by San Diego Union-Tribune.
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