AgdaPkt 2015-09-28 Joint SA PFA - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission approved, including because office uses require floor area of more than 7,000 square feet in order to be viable and to attract long-term tenants. In addition, an 8-story rearyard or courtyard building would have no limitations on floor area for any use, including office. The Project is well scaled and consistent with the policies of the DTPP, because while the Project could be proposed at 12 stories/136 feet, the Project is designed as 9 stories/112 feet, a full 3 stories and 24 feet lower than the maximum allowed. vi. The Project Is Consistent with DTPP Policies to Promote the Development of a Vibrant Downtown Community Through Commercial Development of a Range of Buildings. Appellants’ Contention: The Project will not contribute to the formation of a “vibrant and beautiful city center” and will not advance the DTPP goal of making downtown attractive and unique. (See, e.g., Carr Appeal, pp. 1-4; Keyes Appeal, pp. 1-4.) City’s Response: Many of these contentions are addressed in the foregoing discussions, including with respect the building disposition type regulations (e.g., re: height and size) and the historic resource regulations. The DTPP allows the development of larger office buildings in this North of Marshall District. The DTPP recognizes that there is already a range of architectural styles and uses (e.g., office and government buildings), of both historic and contemporary styles. The DTPP allows large office buildings in this neighborhood without setbacks from the sidewalk, because they create a more urban environment, promote growth in the employment sector, increase pedestrian traffic, and are close to public transit (such as CalTrain). (DTPP, pp. 17, 22.) The DTPP anticipates that buildings up to 12 stories high in this zone will have a range of styles (e.g., neoclassical structures like the Project) and will be adjacent to or near historic structures, such as the three historic resources at issue here. Indeed, a central purpose of the DTPP is to create a “regional city center.” (DTPP, p. 13.) Locating a large, neoclassical office building near the downtown core will contribute to the creation of a vibrant and beautiful city center by furthering economic development and contributing workers who will seek shopping, dining and recreational opportunities downtown. vii. The Project Will Not Impact Views in Contravention of Any Regulation. Appellants’ Contention: The Project will impact the views of the historic courthouse and downtown Redwood City from 620 Jefferson Avenue. (Keyes Appeal, pp. 10-11.) 7.A. - Page 14