Transforming the southern gateway to San Diego State University, South Campus Plaza introduced a new model for campus development, integrating student housing, academic space, retail, and community amenities into a vibrant mixed-use destination. Delivered through the CSU’s Collaborative Design-Build process, the project required a coordinated approach to procurement, design, preconstruction, and construction to balance the University’s financial and development objectives.

OCMI served as SDSU’s owner’s representative and construction manager, supporting the University from the earliest stages of procurement through final project closeout. Our team developed the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) and Request for Proposals (RFP), supported design-builder selection, and administered the procurement process, establishing the foundation for collaborative project delivery.

Working with design-builder Sundt Construction, SVA Architects, and SGPA Architecture and Planning, OCMI managed design development and preconstruction, providing ongoing cost and schedule verification, oversight of trade contractor bidding, and coordination of project requirements. During construction, OCMI’s on-site team managed contract administration, budget and schedule controls, change orders, quality oversight, and project closeout.

The $143 million development features two residential and academic towers with approximately 600 student beds and staff apartments above ground-floor retail and dining, complemented by an adjacent parking structure. OCMI also assisted SDSU with retail tenant design reviews and infrastructure coordination to accommodate regulatory requirements and future commercial uses.

Completed in 2018 and achieving LEED Silver certification, South Campus Plaza demonstrates how Collaborative Design-Build, supported by comprehensive owner representation and early preconstruction management, can successfully deliver complex, multi-use facilities while advancing broader campus and community development goals.

Photography courtesy of OCMI, Inc.