pages: PlanningBoard/2010-03-22.pdf, 3
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PlanningBoard | 2010-03-22 | 3 | The Planning Services Manager stated that there would be workshops but believes having an idea of what could work in the Civic Center area will allow for a more comprehensive discussion. Board member Lynch stated that he thinks the plan is fantastic and enjoyed the style of the presentation. He asked if the cost for the project has been investigated. The Planning Services Manager responded that the only building that has had any cost examination is the Carnegie. Keith McCoy of Urban Community Partners, a Real Estate consulting firm, stated that he worked on the project and worked with a very small budget and tight timeline. They took into consideration the existing assets that the City of Alameda already has and built around that. Board member Cunningham asked what the City Council's reaction to the plan was. The Planning Services Manager stated that their reaction was very positive and the main concern is "what's next" and "how do we get it done?" President Ezzy Ashcraft stated that see loves the ideas for the Civic Center. She is concerned that the Webster Street Business District desperately needs the City's attention and feels that it should be a bigger priority at this time. Board member Lynch agrees that this type of presentation would be beneficial for the Webster Street corridor and it would be helpful to begin generating interest and that would allow this district to become a civic priority as well. He suggested that the Community Development Department keep that in mind as a future possibility. President Ezzy Ashcraft opened the public comment period. Richard Rutter of the Alameda Architectural Preservation Society passed out information to the Planning Board members. He spoke in favor of the plan and added some suggestions. David Baker commented that he is concerned with the idea of three and four story buildings along Oak Street and Santa Clara Avenue. He feels that the large buildings would over shadow the historic buildings in the Civic Center area. He suggested that a pedestrian mall be added between Lincoln Avenue and Santa Clara Avenue along Oak Street. Dorothy Freeman voiced her concern about the cost to complete the plan and the additional traffic businesses and housing would bring. She mentioned other potential projects that are being considered in the area that would also contribute to the traffic congestion. Draft Meeting Minutes March 22, 2010 Page 3 of 5 | PlanningBoard/2010-03-22.pdf |