I commend the Council for its proactive approach in considering the feasibility of constructing affordable housing on the currently occupied downtown parking lots. Naturally, this proposal has faced opposition from certain sectors, as it disrupts the established status quo.
To address the pressing issue of parking congestion in the downtown area, which will likely intensify if the housing project proceeds, I urge the Council to take additional measures. The parking lots situated between Menlo Avenue and Santa Cruz appear to be a combination of private and public property, which may contribute to their overcrowding and poor maintenance.
It is worth noting that a small parcel of land adjacent to Draegers’ has been the subject of a dispute between two private parties. Furthermore, these lots serve as back entrances, avenues for trash collection and pickup, and delivery routes for goods and services to the businesses located adjacent to them. This combination of factors results in significant traffic congestion with limited maneuverability.
Therefore, I propose that the Council commission a second study and request for proposals (RFPs) to evaluate several options:
(1) Acquiring privately owned lots through imminent domain and converting them to city property.
(2) Constructing parking garages on the lots to replace lost parking spaces and accommodate both employee, client, customer, and visitor parking needs. Additionally, the garages should be designed to align with the City’s goals of reducing private automobile traffic and promoting public transportation, cycling, and walking.
(3) Constructing a commercial vehicle and public transportation ground floor level within the public garages to facilitate safe deliveries and passenger pickups. Automobile spaces reserved for vehicles with handicapped access placards will ensure easy access for occupants without the need for elevators.
(4) Utilizing some of the East-West streets currently connecting Santa Cruz and Menlo Avenue as entrance and egress points. Other streets could be repurposed into small outdoor parks and gathering areas that complement existing outdoor seating areas in Santa Cruz.
(5) Blocking traffic along Santa Cruz, directing vehicular traffic onto Oak Grove and Menlo Avenue. This measure would ensure the safety of non-motorized cycles and pedestrian traffic from El Camino Real to University.
Thank you once again for your proactive approach and commitment to the study. Addressing parking concerns in the area is crucial for the successful implementation of the housing plan and the revitalization of a downtown area that many citizens and merchants perceive as declining.
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Steve Taffee
600 Willow Rd Unit 10
Menlo Park, CA 94025-2676
steve.taffee@icloud.com
