City Heights is a diverse community of San Diego stretching from El Cajon Blvd. to the north and freeway 94 to the south. Previously known for neglect and urban blight, the district is presently in a state of revitalization with the infusion of new commercial developments, parks and street improvements
Atop a plateau and three miles east of San Diego bay is the secluded and canyon-laced neighborhood of City Heights known as Azalea Park.
Formerly known as Lexington Park, Azalea Park was originally a real estate sub-division. In the 1980s, the Lexington Park Neighborhood Association opted to take the name Azalea Park. This tight-knit neighborhood consists primarily of smaller homes with a scattering of light commercial and multi-family dwellings.
There are two conveniently located parks which make it ideal for young families with kids. Featured in Azalea Community Park is a water conservation garden displaying unique art and water conscious landscaping. In February of this year, Councilmember Marti Emerald presented a City Proclamation to the Azalea Park Neighborhood Association recognizing the water conservation garden along with their extended community efforts.
In 1981 the reform of Azalea Park began. Increased police presence and community watch programs began in an effort to clean up the streets and increase property values. Residents got together to walk the streets and parks at night in an effort to monitor illegal activities occurring within their neighborhood.
In July of 1993, with the entry of the first float in the San Diego Pride Parade, the vicinity was introduced to the gay community. With hand painted banners, residents and supporters of Azalea Park marched enthusiastically in an effort to attract the LGBT community to the up and coming neighborhood. It worked! CNN carried news of the effort to the nation, and by 2003, there were more than 100 gay households in Azalea Park.
Sporadically placed throughout the community are hand-carved wood banners representing the streets named after varying plants. Completed by artist Tom Benson, there are 38 featured pieces of art which are well worth a look.
Situated just north of the immediate neighborhood is the award winning City Heights Urban Village consisting of a community gymnasium, Mid-City Police Substation and a public library. Authentic ethnic restaurants and markets also line the main corridors offering taste treats for the most exotic of pallets.
Offering vast canyon views, easy access to downtown and Balboa Park, and community oriented residents, Azalea Park is still one of the most affordable communities within the City of San Diego, featuring properties ranging from $149,000 to $377,000 for a detached home.
Ron Monigold is a Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser and a California Licensed Real Estate agent. He is a member of the National, California, and San Diego Association of Realtors. You can reach Ron at The Metropolitan Group at 619-990-4631 or at ronmetro@cox.net. DRE Licence #01865841.
