Planning commission recommends approval for Carlsbad Village Drive mixed‑use project despite neighborhood objections

The Carlsbad Planning Commission on July 17 voted 5–2 to recommend approval of the Carlsbad Village Drive Mixed‑Use Project, a proposal by Tooley Interests to replace the existing Carlsbad Village Plaza with 218 apartments, about 13,800 square feet of neighborhood retail and a 340‑space parking structure.

City staff and the applicant said the plan complies with state housing laws and local land‑use rules, including density bonus provisions that allow a higher unit count in exchange for 27 units deed‑restricted for 55 years to very‑low‑income households at 50% of area median income. Staff also told commissioners that the city planner had determined the project qualified for a CEQA infill exemption after reviewing technical reports, and that the exemption was not appealed during the 10‑day appeal period.

Why it matters: The project would add workforce and very‑low‑income apartments in the Village and Barrio area, widen sidewalks along Carlsbad Village Drive to 16 feet and provide streetscape and transit stop improvements. Opponents said the plan would, at the same time, demolish a long‑standing plaza that includes Smart & Final, a pharmacy and…