I´m writing in support of the proposal in Agenda Item G1
"G-1 Resolution declaring downtown Parking Plazas 1, 2, and 3 as exempt surplus
land and provide feedback and authorize staff to release a request for qualifications for affordable
housing on Parking Plazas 1, 2, and 3 to implement Housing Element program H4.G"
The reasons for my support include:
* Menlo Park (and the Peninsula) needs more housing, and more affordable housing.
* Housing in downtown will revitalize the area. More households living within walking distance of the downtown business will help everybody.
* Some parking is needed and it is accounted for in the proposal from staff. Retaining that parking is key in this proposal.
* Since the city will continue to own the land, it can impose requirements on developments in the properties. This seems a great opportunity to create good parking, and to improve the public space in the new construction. The current parking lots are mostly asphalt with very little green space - this can be improved.
* The State has mandated a large growth in the housing stock in Menlo Park.These locations were identified as prime candidates and were included in the Housing Element submission that was finally approved by Sacramento
* Failing to satisfy our promises in our Housing Element submission can risk the city being decertified, as it happened with Portola Valley. This would create opportunities for new Builder Remedy submissions, akin to the current one in 80 Willow Road, which is the last thing we need.
* Finally, although there is real need for parking spaces right now, and I applaud the current proposal, I expect the growth of parking requirements to slow down, and perhaps even diminish. over time. Alternative transportation solutions include walking, biking, using trains, and using ride hailing services, including autonomous services like Waymo.
Thanks for reading
Eduardo Pelegri-Llopart
The Willows
