Contessa at Otay Ranch is a vibrant, transit-oriented mixed-use residential community located in Village 6 of the Otay Ranch master plan. This thoughtfully designed development includes 108 live-work units and integrated retail spaces, all situated adjacent to the South Bay Rapid Transit Station—providing residents with convenient, car-optional access to downtown San Diego and other regional destinations.
Hunsaker & Associates San Diego, Inc. provided full civil engineering and surveying services for the site, playing a key role in bringing this high-density, walkable community to life. Our team worked closely with the project’s designers and stakeholders to ensure the infrastructure supported both the form and function of this urban-inspired neighborhood.
Project Challenges & Solutions
One of the most significant engineering challenges was the dramatic vertical grade change across the site, especially along the main frontage street. Maintaining ADA-compliant pedestrian access for the commercial and residential fronts presented a major design constraint.
H&A addressed this challenge by strategically designing a central public plaza that not only serves as the heart of the community but also effectively absorbs and distributes the site’s topography. This creative solution allowed for compliance with accessibility requirements while enhancing the site’s visual and functional appeal.
Notable Features
-
Integrated Central Plaza: This plaza creates a public park-like atmosphere that encourages community interaction and serves as a flexible space for gatherings, recreation, and relaxation.
-
Live-Work Layout: Designed to support modern lifestyles, the live-work units blend residential comfort with business functionality—promoting small businesses and local entrepreneurship.
-
Transit Accessibility: Direct proximity to the South Bay Rapid Transit Station promotes sustainable transportation and reduces dependency on personal vehicles.
Through innovative engineering, detailed planning, and a commitment to community-oriented design, H&A helped shape Contessa into a model for modern, connected living in Otay Ranch.
