SAN DIEGO — Mayor Todd Gloria on Tuesday signed into law a plan that paves the way for thousands of new homes and jobs in University City.
The updates to the University Community Plan allows for up to 29,000 new homes and 72,000 jobs in the University area. Gloria signed the University plan days after approving a similar plan for high-density housing in Hillcrest.
The plan updates for University City are "reinforcing the area as a major employment hub across various sectors, including office, retail, scientific research, technology institutions and healthcare," a press release from the Mayor's Office noted.
Supporters said the updates could transform University City into an area that looks more like a smaller downtown. High-rise buildings could be included, as well as commercial space to attract bio-tech or life science companies.
"Do you want park and recreational opportunities? This plan has got them," Gloria said at a press conference Tuesday, listing out many plans for new parks for the community to enjoy.
People with concerns about the plan cite worries about too much density, specifically related to potential high-rise buildings and proximity to public transportation.
The San Diego City Council unanimously approved updates to both the University and Hillcrest plans July 30.
The Hillcrest plan allows for 17,000 new homes in the area and could more than double the population by 2050.
WATCH RELATED: Mayor Gloria signs into law plan that could add 17,000 new homes in Hillcrest