San Diego State University is still exploring its options for redeveloping the Qualcomm Stadium site and the surrounding area, according to a statement by the school.
Qualcomm Stadium and Mission Valley have been at the center of development talks, particularly since the San Diego Chargers announced their move to Los Angeles last month. SDSU is slated to continue using Qualcomm Stadium for at least two more seasons, but officials have been discussing what could happen to the area over the long run.
On Wednesday, the school issued a statement explaining where it stands in the process, and stressed that it has not firmly committed to a development partner. “SDSU is deeply interested in the redevelopment of the Qualcomm Stadium site, home to our Top 25 Aztecs,” the statement reads. “We are engaged in conversations with multiple parties interested in developing the site; we have not made a commitment to partner with any specific party at this time. We remain committed to a transparent process that advances our academic and athletic programs and the interests of the citizens of San Diego; we look to the Mayor and the City Council to lead this process in a way that best reflects the priorities of the community.”
Several possible plans have been reported to this point. One calls for a new stadium for SDSU football to be included as part of a proposal to bring an MLS expansion franchise to San Diego, as both soccer and college football could be played at the facility. In addition, that proposal also includes plans for mixed-use amenities such residences.
More recently, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported that developer Doug Manchester is hoping to lure the NFL back to San Diego with a new stadium. Mission Valley has been linked to that proposal, though it remains to be seen if it will come to fruition. More from Fox 5:
Doug Manchester “Papa Doug” the local land Developer also has floated a plan to the NFL with a letter addressed to Rodger Goodell. In the leaked letter the developer wrote: “Our group will provide the funds previously allocated to be provided by the City of San Diego and guarantee the stadium’s expeditious construction,” the letter says. “Accordingly, this project will not require voter approval.” The letter alludes to contact with city officials, but when mayor Kevin Faulconer was pressed he said “I have not spoken with him (Manchester). Anyone can write a letter,” said mayor Faulconer.
As noted earlier, SDSU could utilize Qualcomm Stadium through at least the 2018 season. Some officials are wondering how long the facility will last beyond that date, though it seems that nothing has been firmly decided at this point.
Image courtesy San Diego Chargers.
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