Developer Doug Manchester appeared on KPBS’ “These Days” this morning, discussing the Navy Broadway Complex development, the Miramar Airport proposal and why he insists on being called “Papa Doug.”
Listeners called in to sound both concerns about and praise for Manchester’s past and future downtown developments.
A caller who identified himself as Joel from Santee phoned in with a few sarcastic remarks for Papa Doug.
“I’d like to compliment Mr. Manchester,” the caller said. “He’s figured out a way where, if you want to see the bay from anyplace a few miles back up on the hill, that your going to have to be on one of his properties, controlled properties, or properties he built.
“It’s really a unique thing for one man to have been able to monopolize the view of the bay. So, he should be complimented for his obvious political and financial maneuverings.”
Manchester responded, telling Joel that “It’s not a perfect world,” and that “you can go as a public citizen,” and enjoy the views from the convention center.
“Same way, maybe, hopefully you’ll come down to Top of the Hyatt and have a drink and look over the waterfront there,” he said.
Manchester defended his Navy Broadway Complex proposal during the interview, responding to concerns raised about the density of the plan and the bid process for obtaining a development agreement.
“Out of some 12 acres we have almost five acres of open space, and we’ve opened up E, F and G (streets) which are closed right now and are blighted to the public,” Manchester said, responding to the density issue. “It’ll be so much better than what it is now, and it will be an economic and income generator, but more importantly, besides that, it will be a wonderful place in which all San Diegans can come and be able to enjoy.”
These Days’ host Tom Fudge raised the issue of building a commercial airport on the Miramar Marine Corps. Air Station site, a plan that Manchester himself publicly supported about ten years ago.
“The bottom line is the only reason I proposed Miramar at the time is because the United States Navy had taken the Top Gun school to Fallon, Nevada and the F-14 squadron to Lemoore naval air station,” Manchester said.
He added: “Once the marines are here, as far is I’m concerned, I support the Marine Corps.”
Listen to the full interview here.