James R. Mills Building

The James R. Mills Building is a ten-story office complex in East Village featuring a distinctive fifteen-story clock tower with red Roman numerals and bright backlighting. The structure contains about 180,000 square feet of workspace, a convenience market on the ground level, and a six-story parking garage.

Construction was initiated in 1987 by the Metropolitan Transit Development Board and completed in 1989 as their administrative headquarters. The building was erected directly above the 12th Street transit station and became central to the city's public transportation infrastructure.

The building carries the name of a California state senator who created key legislation for San Diego's trolley system. His name is connected to the development of public transportation in the city.

The building sits directly above a transit station, making it easily accessible by public transportation. Ample parking is available on-site if you prefer to drive.

The remarkable clock tower was handcrafted by Swiss watchmaker Ebel and cost over 750,000 dollars. This ornate timepiece illuminates the surrounding area at night and stands out as a distinctive feature of the urban landscape.

Location: San Diego

Official opening: January 3, 1989

Elevation above the sea: 37 m

GPS coordinates: 32.70583,-117.15333

Latest update: December 12, 2025 08:00