Council OKs Salk expansion

The San Diego City Council Tuesday unanimously approved a 186,000-square-foot expansion of the Salk Institute in La Jolla.

The project would increase the renowned medical research institute’s campus, on a 26.3-acre site on the cliffs overlooking Black’s Beach, from 289,800 square feet to 476,000 square feet.

The expansion, to be completed in phases, will include new laboratory and research space, a Salk Community Center building, underground parking facility and greenhouses.

The Salk Institute and nearby residents have been battling for nearly a decade over the proposed expansion, only recently reaching agreement over habitat preservation and view issues.

Council President Scott Peters, who represents the area, said he was pleased the stakeholders were able to reach consensus.

“I am so thankful for Salk for listening to the neighbors and the environmental community,’’ Peters said.

The original buildings at the Salk Institute were designated as a historical landmark in 1991.