Escondido AgX Innovation Hub
The City of Escondido is stepping boldly into the future with the creation of a new regional AgX Innovation Hub at 455 N. Quince Street, in partnership with The VINE Institute and UC Agriculture and Natural Resources. Backed by a $1.3 million investment and $500,000 in startup support from the City, the project will transform a long-vacant 50,000-square-foot city-owned building into a center for ag-tech innovation, workforce training, and entrepreneurship. The hub aims to support local farmers, food system entrepreneurs, and students with resources ranging from an incubator and lab space to a testing kitchen and farm robotics programming. Read more about the AgX project here.
Affordable Housing for Seniors
This flagship investment is part of a larger wave of economic activity across the city. Just blocks away, the Valley Creek Senior Apartments project was recently awarded a share of $14 million in state funding for affordable housing. Once completed, it will offer 136 units (some reserved for low-income seniors and formerly homeless veterans) as well as a public daycare facility. More details on the Valley Creek housing project can be found here.
Mission Escondido Retail Revitalization
Meanwhile, the private sector is also doubling down on Escondido’s potential. Capstone Advisors recently completed a $1 million revitalization of the Mission Escondido retail center, refreshing a high-traffic commercial site with modern design, drought-tolerant landscaping, EV charging stations, and a tenant mix that now includes Korean BBQ, martial arts, and salon services. Explore the Mission Escondido renovation story here.
From innovation and entrepreneurship to inclusive housing and retail vitality, Escondido is investing in its future, block by block.
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