Project Vela (Turquoise Tower)
Project Vela (Turquoise Tower) is a proposed 24-story mixed-use tower in North Pacific Beach, near the La Jolla border. The project includes 74 residential units, 10 of which are affordable, along with 139 visitor accommodation units (hotel rooms).
The developer is seeking streamlined ministerial (“by-right”) approval under California housing law. If the City determines the project qualifies, it could proceed without a public hearing, discretionary review, or full environmental review.
NFABC believes this proposal raises important legal, public safety. infrastructure, and housing policy questions that deserve careful public review before any final decision is made.
Current Status - June 2026
Project Vela (Turquoise Tower) remains under review by the City of San Diego.
On March 25, 2026, NFABC represented by Chatten-Brown Law Group, submitted a comprehensive legal comment letter asking the City of San Diego to pause ministerial processing of Project Vela until key legal, public safety, infrastructure, and environmental issues are fully evaluated.
The filing is supported by more than 130 pages of technical exhibits. legal analysis, and public records submitted to the City.
Key Issues Under Review:
SB 423 eligibility
Base density calculation
Affordable housing
CEQA environmental review
Fire access
Geotechnical concerns
Infrastructure
From public safety and infrastructure to affordability and homeownership, NFABC helps communities advocate for responsible housing solutions that work for everyone.
Responsible Housing. Strong Communities. Better Solutions.
Support the Turquoise Tower Legal Fund
Why Your Support Matters
Your support helps NFABC fund the legal and technical work needed to challenge Project Vela’s streamlined approval and hold the City and developer accountable before and final decision is made.
Your donation supports:
Attorney fees and legal representation
Technical and expert analysis
Public records requests
Community outreach and education
Website, printing, and essential administrative costs
The majority of funds raised for the Turquoise Tower campaign support legal and expert work related to this project.
NFABC is led by volunteers. Board members, officers, and volunteers do not receive salaries for their work. Donations support project-related legal, technical, communications, accounting, and administrative expenses