Carlsbad Village Plaza, a beloved shopping center in Carlsbad, California, is set to be demolished to make way for two high-rise apartment buildings. The decision was made by the city council in a 4-1 vote, despite opposition from residents who cherished the community feel of the plaza.
Many Carlsbad residents, like Christy Cunningham and Randy Sager, expressed their disappointment and frustration over the council’s decision. They feel that the demolition of the plaza will transform their quaint village into a cluster of condos, eroding the unique character of the area.
The city council cited state laws mandating the construction of a certain amount of housing, including units for low-income individuals, as a driving factor behind their decision. This requirement left them with limited options, despite the backlash from the community.
One of the key concerns raised by residents is the impact on essential services provided by Carlsbad Village Plaza. The shopping center houses the only grocery store in the vicinity, making it a vital resource for many residents, especially those without easy access to transportation.
Abby Snyder, who frequents the plaza for supplies for the Boys and Girls Club, highlighted the importance of the center for community organizations. Additionally, Benjamin White emphasized that the closure of the grocery store would leave many elderly residents without a nearby option for their shopping needs.
While some residents, like Michael Harris, expressed acceptance of the plaza’s demolition due to its aging infrastructure, others, including Randy Sager, lamented the loss of valuable amenities like the pharmacy, bakery, and hardware store that will also be shuttered.
The upcoming construction of the two apartment buildings is expected to bring 213 units to the area, with 27 of them designated for low-income individuals. However, the leases for these units are set to expire in 2026, raising questions about the long-term impact on housing affordability in Carlsbad.
Overall, the decision to demolish Carlsbad Village Plaza has sparked a mix of emotions within the community, with residents grappling with the loss of a cherished landmark and essential services. As the construction of the new apartment buildings progresses, the true impact of this development on the fabric of Carlsbad’s community remains to be seen.
