AgdaPkt 2011-10-10 - Laserfiche WebLink

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7.A. - Page 56 ATTACHN�NT 3 EIR, including the Redwood City General plan, Mixed Use Zoning Ordinance, and the Grand Boulevard initiative. She stated that the project requires no variances and no concessions. She noted that in response to neighbors' concerns, they increased side and rear yard setbacks, and in response to plan review committee and architectural committee comments they brought the face of the building closer to EI Camino. She addressed parking and transportation demand management, noting that there are existing deficiencies relative to parking, and stated the proposed plan would not exacerbate existing conditions and would increase public transit use. She noted the importance of their professionally managed parking. She noted the public transit and bike parking available to what is anticipated to be largely sustainable living interested individuals and couples. She noted there are two electric car charging stations already planned, and in response to comments from the scoping session there will be eight more charging station prepped to be converted as the market demands. Secondly she spoke about the Mel's Bowl sign, and stated that while the sign is an asset to the Redwood City community it would be incompatible with the proposed use of the site. She noted that the project alternative of leaving the sign in place and setting the building back is inconsistent with the city's vision, goals, and policies of EI Camino Real becoming a grand boulevard. She noted that the alternatives section does not address the visual impact to new residents of a large-scale neon sign outside their windows. She stated that relocation of the sign on site would be difficult, but UHG is currently seeking a new location for the sign but because of its size that is proving difficult. She stated that the proposed plan would bring additional broader benefits, including removing the adult bookstore, and coordinating and paying for a farade enhancement program for nearby businesses. PUBLIC HEARING � � �` � Scott Stanley stated that Redwood City has done well improving the downtown city area, but noted that entering the city on the south side does not show the city off quite as well. He stated that this project would be an improvement to the area. Melanie Roberts spoke about the balance between preserving local neighborhood integrity while increasing the area's value with smart growth projects that improve urban settings through the use of under utilized locations and innovative site-specific designs. 2580 EI Camino Project is not an exception, whether it's height clearance, parking, or traffic concerns, Urban Housing Group has been sensitive and responsive. The new high quality apartment community addresses the need for new housing and through environmentally and pedestrian friendly improvements will bring in new consumers to support local businesses and boost the local economy. She stated that the 2580 EI Camino Project is a win/win situation. William Nack, San Mateo Builds Trader Council, thanked the planning department staff for extending the comment period. Marie McMills spoke about the Mel's Bowl sign. She stated that she does not see its historic importance, noted it is not an attractive sign, and also noted that Mel's Bowl has not been running the bowling alley, rather Redwood City AMF Bowling has. Steve Mincey spoke in favor of the 2580 EI Camino Project in the name of SAMCEDA as well as the Redwood City/San Mateo County Chamber of Commerce. He noted two Page 4 of 16