Moreno Valley approves massive Aquabella Project that will bring 15,000 apartments to the city

Moreno Valley city leaders approved the Aquabella Project on Wednesday, making way for a massive development that will bring 15,000 apartments to the city by the time it's finished 15 years from now. 

The decision came after three hours of public comments, both for and against the project, which city council members eventually passed 3-1. 

On top of the thousands of apartments, the sprawling development will include upscale shopping and dining, a luxury hotel and 120 acres of land delegated for parks and schools, all designated to replace what is currently an enormous spot of empty land that sits just east of I-215 and south of SR-60. 

While some residents say the change could build a legacy for future generations, others say that it could seriously impact quality of life in the area, especially when it's completed next to one of the Inland Empire's most congested interchanges. Opponents also contend that with upscale and luxury options being completed, high-paying local jobs should also be included. 

City leaders say that the plans are to build the apartments to be as affordable as possible, with Mayor Ulises Cabrera hopeful that it could help Southern California while its in the midst of a housing crisis. 

"I'm hoping that some of these will be townhomes and condos and that we'll actually give a pathway for home ownership as well," the mayor said at the meeting. "Not just get people stuck in that vicious cycle of renting."

Cabrera is also certain that the project will benefit both current and future residents, including those who commute long distances for work. 

"If we have an opportunity to give our own residents those local jobs, I'm going to fight for them," he said.