HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-10-2016 PC Correspondence Item 1, (Cross)Maier, John Paul
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Brett Cross
1217Marinders Cove
Brett Cross < brettcross@yahoo.com >
Wednesday, February 10, 2016 1:13 PM
Advisory Bodies
San Luis Ranch Project - Planning Commission
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
SLO CITY CLERK
SUBJECT: Conceptual review of land use -related issues for the San Luis Ranch
Specific Plan
After reviewing the Conceptual plan for the San Luis Ranch project I'm honestly
underwhelmed. I'm certain that there will be significant focus on the small lot
subdivision concept and attention being drawn away from what is in essence just a
very basic subdivision layout.
The housing types (low density*, medium density, high density) are isolated from each
other and are not mixed throughout the project. The high density housing is, as typical,
located adjacent to a major arterial (Madonna Rd.), the medium density is located at
the rear of the commercial project, and the low density* is located separately in the
center of the project.
Despite the small lot sizes in the Low Density* portion building heights (35' max) would
suggest the actual home size would not be small nor affordable by design. The same
goes for the other housing areas.
The high density area including the interim open space appears to completely ignore
the eucalyptus tree groves and other onsite trees. Previous EIR's have been
insufficient in proposing mitigation to the heron rookery and Turkey vulture habitat.
The "Neighborhood" Commercial appears to be a typical designed regional shopping
center that depends on a large geographic area in terms of customer base and is auto
centric by nature.
The drainage channel that runs along the northerly portion of the property although
"enhanced" should be reconfigured to better present a more natural intermittent stream
and incorporated through portions of the project.
The Office area adjacent to highway 101 is again typical of what is seen throughout
California as well as the hotel siting. A larger scale permanent farmers market should
be considered for this location.
Overall the Planning Commission should recommend that the project mix housing
type§ throughout the development, the Commercial area should be reconfigured with
aw.e'mphasis on parking lot configuration, walkability, village design, and an emphasis
on community retail.
The project should maintain the current stand of Eucalyptus trees and trees along
Madonna Rdas i8. practically possible. The drainage channel should be incorporated
through project as to create more habitat natural features.
Sincerely,
Brett Cross
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