Officials break ground on SDSU Mission Valley mixed-use project

San Diego State University broke ground Wednesday on the first residential and retail development at SDSU Mission Valley.

The project, Avalon Mission Valley, will add 621 apartments ranging from studios to three-bedroom units, east of Snapdragon Stadium in the existing Orange Lot. AvalonBay Communities is the developer.

“This development is designed primarily for our neighbors, our community and for San Diego residents,” SDSU President Adela de la Torre said. “Together with our civic and community partners, we’re creating a dynamic, walkable neighborhood that links transit, recreation and innovation, unlocking opportunity and access for all.”

Avalon Mission Valley is also set to include around 30,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space, anchored by a grocery store. The development will feature public art and is being designed to achieve LEED Gold Certification, according to a university statement.

As construction gets underway, portions of the Orange Lot will be fenced off. Occupancy is expected in 2028.

“We’re proud to be part of SDSU’s bold vision for Mission Valley and excited to help bring this new community to life,” said Mark Janda, senior vice president of development for AvalonBay Communities. “This project is more than housing – it’s a catalyst for the vibrant, connected neighborhood that’s taking shape here.”

San Diego Mayor Todd Glolria also attended the groundbreaking, as did City Council President Joe LaCava and Councilmember Raul Campillo.

At full build-out, plans for SDSU Mission Valley include 80 acres of parks and open space, up to 4,600 market-rate and affordable housing units, 1.6 million square feet of research space, 95,000 square feet of retail and a hotel.

The university’s plan for the SDSU Mission Valley campus includes an “innovation district” to support SDSU’s education, research, entrepreneurial, technology and athletics programs.