REPORT TO PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
SUBJECT
Title
Consideration of the proposed Schematic Design for the New Public Neighborhood Park located at 3905 Freedom Circle (Greystar Development)
Report
BACKGROUND
The Santa Clara City Code 17.35 requires new residential development to dedicate parkland and/or the payment of in lieu fees. Greystar Real Estate Partners submitted an application to the City for a General Plan Amendment from High-Intensity Office/R&D to High Intensity Mixed-Use and Planned Development (PD) rezoning to allow for a new residential mixed-use development (Project). The Project area includes 13.3 acres comprising two parcels (APNs: 104-40-021 & 104-40-036) that are bounded by Freedom Circle, Mission College Boulevard, Highway 101, and San Tomas Aquino Creek. The Project site is also part of the proposed General Plan - Freedom Circle Focus Area under a separate development process by the City that encompasses 108 acres in northern Santa Clara.
The Project proposes to construct 1,075 apartment units and will meet its parkland dedication requirements through an 87,728 square foot (2.014 acres) public neighborhood park with connection to the San Tomas Creek Trail. The public park will be dedicated to the City in fee title. Public park improvements will be constructed by the developer to the City's design criteria and specifications and will be maintained by the developer after dedication.
DISCUSSION
The proposed Schematic Design for the public neighborhood park (Attachment 1) features: a 1/2-acre natural grass field, landscaped and furnished park-like quiet area, playground for children ages 2-5 and 6-12, a basketball court, a family picnic area with tables, barbeques, and a bocce court, an enclosed off-leash dog area with separate areas for small and large dogs, pathways, trees, landscaping, and connection to the San Tomas Creek Trail. Twenty off-street parking stalls for park visitors are proposed to be provided in Buildings B and C. ...
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