On the opposite coast, a large proposed infill project is generating its own share of controversy. The Seabright Neighbors Association of Santa Cruz, CA opposes a “high density” townhouse project that will abut a park:
The proposed development is a Hummer! It does not respect the character of the neighborhood, violates zoning rules and packs Accessory Dwelling Units on substandard lots… City staff are trying to side-step environmental review requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act and have invented the phony concept of “transition” to justify the proposal’s violations of zoning and General Plan requirements.
The effort so far
Presented with more than 600 signatures against the development and overwhelming opposition at its public hearing on October 5, the Planning Commission denied the developer’s proposal! The Commission agreed that the proposal was too dense for the area. Nonetheless—despite claims of wanting to work in harmony with the neighborhood—the developers are taking their Hummer plan to the City Council…
What about in-fill?
In-fill development should be near commercial and transit corridors, and help with our city’s housing woes. In this residential area, the proposal will exacerbate traffic problems… In-fill isn’t supposed to transform small neighborhoods, nor undermine parks…
Talking points
- The Planned Development (PD) is too dense and out of character with the neighborhood…
- Using a planned development (PD) is an end run around zoning, with little community benefit…
- There are drainage issues which might [affect] the harbor…
- There will be a significant impact on traffic and parking.
- Infill projects should be on traffic corridors.
- The uniform height of these buildings is out of character with the current neighborhood…
- There are significant and documented traffic problems that already exist on Frederick St and this will increase weekday traffic even more.