If you’ve driven past the Oceanside Transit Center recently, you might have noticed a lot of buzz about big changes coming—and trust us, they’re worth paying attention to. What was once just a busy (and mostly concrete) commuter hub is on track to become a vibrant, mixed-use destination that honors Oceanside’s coastal charm while tackling real transportation and housing challenges in the region.
In 2016, the North County Transit District (NCTD) adopted a vision: leverage its real estate to do more than just move people. The idea? Use transit hubs like OTC as catalysts for sustainable development—reducing car reliance, creating much-needed housing, and turning stations into actual places where people want to spend time. After a competitive selection process, NCTD brought on Toll Brothers Apartment Living to bring that vision to life.
Fast forward to today, and we’re looking at one of the most exciting redevelopment projects in North County San Diego.
What’s Coming to the New OTC?
The Oceanside Transit Center of the future will be more than just a stop—it’ll be a neighborhood centerpiece. Picture this:
- 547 residential apartments, with 15% set aside for low-income households
- A 165-key luxury boutique hotel for travelers and staycationers alike
- A modern, centralized intermodal transportation hub that improves connections for train and bus riders
- A new NCTD headquarters at 235 S. Tremont
- Public plazas, shaded walkways, water fountains, and bicycle storage
- Retail and dining spaces designed to support local businesses and walkability
- A new public parking structure that replaces and expands current options
- A park-like plaza filled with native plants, seating, and public art
And if that’s not enough, the current NCTD office space on Mission Avenue will also be redeveloped to create even more mixed-income housing opportunities—part of the city’s broader commitment to creating homes near transit.
Designed with Oceanside in Mind
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all project. From the beginning, the development team has prioritized local character and community voice. Architectural elements will echo Oceanside’s civic landmarks and beachy identity, using Irving Gill-style design and landscaping that reflects the local climate. Balconies, stoops, and active street-level façades aim to create walkable, human-scale blocks that invite neighbors to explore.
Public feedback has already influenced the project in real ways: palm trees swapped for shade-giving canopies, more green space added, and a renewed focus on creating a plaza that feels more like a park than a parking lot. Public art will play a starring role too, with a planned art program featuring local artists and storytelling that reflects Oceanside’s rich and diverse history.
A Cultural Hub in the Making
Did you know Oceanside is one of only 14 official cultural districts in California? The new OTC will celebrate that with a dedicated public art initiative, including murals, sculptures, and functional design elements like unique bike storage and creative signage.
NCTD even secured a grant to fund artwork in the underpass below the station—yet another way this space will become more than just a transit stop.
What About Transit?
Transit remains at the heart of this project. The redesigned layout will bring the BREEZE bus loop closer to the COASTER and SPRINTER platforms, improving connections for riders. Plus, the site is served by Amtrak and Metrolink, making it a true regional gateway.
And while some neighbors have raised concerns about changes in bus traffic flow—particularly near South Cleveland Street—transit officials say they’re committed to minimizing impact, especially with zero-emission buses becoming the norm.
What’s Next?
The Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) is available now, and the public is encouraged to submit comments. The Oceanside City Council is expected to vote later this year, and construction is projected to begin in 2026 with phased implementation to avoid transit disruption.
This project represents more than just buildings—it’s about building a future where people can live, work, ride, and relax all in one connected, coastal community. Whether you’re commuting by train, stopping for coffee, catching a performance, or just strolling through on your way to the beach, the new Oceanside Transit Center is designed to serve you—and look good doing it.
