HomeMy WebLinkAbout7/16/2018 Item 2, Brooks
Goodwin, Heather
From:k brooks <kellebrooks@yahoo.com>
Sent:Monday,
To:Advisory Bodies
Subject:7/16 Architectural review Commission meeting: 790 Foothill
Attachments:broad.foothill.development.pdf
Please find attached letter in regard to today's Architectural review Commission meeting.
Thank you,
Kelle Brooks
1
City of San Luis Obispo Architectural Review Board
Kelle Brooks
780 Meinecke Ave.
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
July 16, 2018
To whom it may concern,
I am writing about the new development at 790 Foothill. I am concerned about the interface
between the proposed building and the pedestrian/ transportation systems. I was disappointed
to find out that the new project at 22 Chorro will not have commercial space on the ground
floor, and is marketed specifically to students. I understand that both of these conditions were
not supported by the residents. I am not opposed to growth and increased density along the
Foothill corridor, but I am very concerned about the continuation of planning which does not
reflect the needs of the entire community and places emphasis on cars over people. As this part
of town grows, it should do so in a way that improves the livability for all residents, rather than
diminish it.
One of the fundamental principles of vital urban street design is having commercial or public
activities at the street level. This gives pedestrians something to look at while they’re walking
and promotes more walking. Because this is a major pedestrian and commercial corridor, it is
imperative that new development takes the opportunity to add more street life vitality. Much
of the existing commercial space in this area unfortunately has parking in front which inhibits
pedestrian activity. With new development, we should be encouraging increased street vitality
and livable cities, not reverting to the poor practices of the automobile focused planning of the
past.
A new project of this size and critical location should contribute to increased livability
demonstrating principles of smart growth.
Sincerely,
Kelle Brooks