e-mail from

Tom Mullaney
Save Hillcrest and
Friends of San Diego
3636 4th Ave, Suite 310
(Just south of University. Free parking under building)

Aug. 23, 2007. 11:30 am.


The people of Hillcrest claimed a major victory today.

The Superior Court ruled in favor of Friends of San Diego in their quest to stop a controversial development project. This public-interest group, working with Hillcrest residents and business owners, brought a lawsuit against the "Third & University" project, which they dubbed the "Monster Building".

This project aimed to add a 12 story, block-wide building on University Avenue, where it narrows to two-lanes at 4th Avenue. The group said that the building would tower over nearby two-story shops and restaurants, and would be completely unsuitable for the neighborhood.

The judge agreed with the citizens' major claims-- that the project ignored legal requirements related to excessive traffic, park shortages, community character, and closing of the public alley.

The court overturned the City Council approval which was made last September. The applicant will be required to complete an Environmental Impact Report and make needed design changes before they can seek a new approval.

The Save Hillcrest supporters will hold a celebration at noon today, at the Friends of San Diego office.


The tentative ruling appears below. Today's ruling by the judge was to uphold the tentative ruling.
www.sandiego.courts.ca.gov/v3tr/ViewRulingsPDF.aspx?CaseNo=GIC874140&SelDates=08/23/2007&EventId=55459

"Preserving the environment
and quality of life in the
San Diego region"