HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/18/2024 Item 4a, KennedyArchitectural Review Commission November 14, 2024
999 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 93401
advisorybodies@slocity.org
Re: Item 4aWaterman Village, 466 Dana St. for ARC 11/18/24
Dear Chair Pineda and Commissioners Abbas, Arens, Carrion, Clark, Gerencser & Mayou,
I am writing to recommend that the Architectural Review Commission approve the proposed
Waterman Village project, located at 466 Dana Street in San Luis Obispo.
Developed by the San Luis Obispo non-profit Smart Share Housing Solutions, the Waterman
Village project is designed to address two important issues in the City of San Luis Obispo. One is the
critical shortage of affordable housing in the city and the other is the restoration and preservation of the
historic Rosa Butron de Canet Adobe.
While perhaps initially appearing to be unrelated goals, they are well-matched. Too often
change and growth are accomplished by erasing historical landmarks. The adobe has been in a deplorable
state of decay for way too long with no viable solution to the need for its restoration.
The proposed project of 20 permanent below-market-rate cottage homes that provide housing
options also includes renovating and saving the adobe. The adobe’s prominent setback from Dana Street
allows broad open space to define the initial perspective of the adobe. This open space, dotted with
mature trees, will serve the public as a serene neighborhood park.
The Waterman Village proposal is a perfect blend of saving an important piece of the City’s
history while also addressing the needs of its current residents.
I urge you to show your support of the project by recommending the Planning Commission’s
approval
Sincerely,
Marianne Kennedy
Former Executive Director (1986-2016)
Women’s Shelter Program of San Luis Obispo