Mayor Combs, Vice Mayor Nash, and Council Members,
As a resident of Suburban Park for the past 18 years, I hope you will please uphold the Appeal for 320 Sheridan Drive and require the Applicant to enhance the project for the safety and benefit of its future residents and the surrounding community.
I support teacher housing and the intent of this project and I am deeply concerned about the change in plans regarding the second entrance. This is a wonderful space tucked back in an area where residents can feel forgotten. The school was shuttered, the park was closed and nearly eliminated, and it’s been an area of investment that we look forward to seeing, but please make it more safe and considerate for the residents and community.
Originally proposed in the developer’s Transportation Demand Management plan and the City’s transportation analysis, this entrance to Van Buren Road has now been downgraded to a locked emergency access gate, limiting its use to the Menlo Park Fire Department and making it inaccessible for residents.
I ask that you:
* Review the provided information to the Planning Commission, including misleading details on public transit access and conflicting information regarding bicycle and pedestrian routes. Clarity on these aspects is critical to understanding how future residents will safely commute to work and school.
* Require the developer to establish the second entrance to Van Buren Road, as they have publicly stated they are willing and able to create this entrance if the City requests it and the right-of-way is provided.
* Recognize that this second entrance will improve safety during emergencies, reduce daily commute times, and enhance overall accessibility and quality of life for the future residents.
This isn’t about opposing the project—it’s about ensuring it is thoughtfully designed to serve its future residents and integrate effectively into our community.
Thank you for your time, consideration, and commitment to fostering a safe and connected Menlo Park.
Sincerely,
Sarah Staley Shenk
328 Hedge Road, Menlo Park CA 94025
