REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Action on the Revised El Camino Real Specific Plan, General Plan Amendment for the Creation of Five New General Plan Land Use Designations, Waive the First Reading and Introduce an Ordinance for the Creation of the El Camino Real Zoning Districts, and Certify and Adopt an Environmental Impact Report and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program
Report
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The El Camino Real Specific Plan carries forward the City Council and the community's vision for revitalization, housing, and economic development. A re-vitalized El Camino Real corridor will provide opportunities for establishing a strong City identity for visitors and residents alike.
The revised El Camino Real Specific Plan ("Plan") establishes a comprehensive framework to guide the transformation of a key City corridor, El Camino Real, from an auto-oriented commercial strip into a mixed-use, pedestrian- and transit-oriented urban corridor. The Plan implements the City's 2010-2035 General Plan vision for this Focus Area by accommodating long-term growth while enhancing quality of life, economic vitality, and urban design.
The El Camino Real Specific Plan Area is just over 250 acres and extends the entire 3.2-mile length of the El Camino Real corridor between the western City limits and Lafayette Street. The revised Plan allows for the development of up to 4,390 residential units and concentrates higher-intensity mixed-use development at larger parcels. Key components of the Plan are:
1. Lower density transitions to adjacent single-family neighborhoods. This addresses community concerns regarding neighborhood compatibility, building scale, height and privacy.
2. Objective Design Standards (ODS) consistent with State Law, enabling streamlined housing approvals, and clear, enforceable design expectations while maintaining community character.
3. Retail development is strategically located in "Activity Centers" to allow for experience-based uses and local...
Click here for full text