Assemblymember David Alvarez’s Bill AB 837 Moves One Step Closer to Helping the City of Chula Vista Establish a Regional University

(Sacramento, CA) – Today, the Assembly Local Government Committee with a bi-partisan vote, approved an exemption to the Surplus Lands Act for the City of Chula Vista. The exemption helps the City of Chula Vista move closer to developing the University-Innovation District, the future home of a world-class university for the South Bay. Chula Vista is the only city in California with a population greater than 200,000 residents that does not have a non-profit or state university within its city limits.

“I am thankful to the Assembly Local Government Committee for their support and positive vote on this item,” said Assemblymember Alvarez. “Adding a university in the South Bay and City of Chula Vista would generate immense economic benefits reverberating across the extended region.”

Chula Vista continues to grow and has become a leader in housing production throughout the State. This year, the City currently has 500 affordable units that are under construction or permitted. Additionally the City in previous Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) cycles, has met all zoning, housing element and siting requirements.

The UID project creates a regional university for the South Bay and opens the doors to future generations looking for new educational opportunities. Individuals with a bachelor’s degree have greater earning power and can earn about $32,000 more annually than those with a high school diploma. 

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The 80th Assembly District includes the communities of Barrio Logan, Logan Heights, Sherman Heights, Otay Mesa and San Ysidro, along with the cities of Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, National City and Bonita.