pages: PlanningBoard/2010-07-26.pdf, 4
This data as json
body | date | page | text | path |
---|---|---|---|---|
PlanningBoard | 2010-07-26 | 4 | completed and approved. As part of the 1989 approvals the City negotiated long-term entitlements in exchange for up-front improvements to the public amenities such as the Ferry Terminal, Bay Trail, parks, and roads. He reported that the City has approved 5.1 million square feet of commercial space, which is far less than what currently exists, because the business park is developing at a much lower intensity than initially approved. In addition to the 1989 EIR, a current study was done to ensure that the assumptions of the original EIR are still sound. The City also completed a traffic and a wildlife habitat survey for the burrowing owl. Both studies concluded no new findings. The Planning Services Manager summarized that the 205,000 square foot campus will be completed in two phases. The first phase will consist of four buildings and the associated parking, while the second phase will consist of a fifth building and associated parking. He mentioned that the site is a short walk to the ferry building and along the Harbor Bay Shuttle route. Also, two new bus stops are planned for the area. All of the buildings are located along the street and the parking is in the rear. The bay-friendly landscaping design allows for drought tolerant foliage and reduces water consumption. The Planning Services Manager then discussed the design elements of the proposed buildings. He stated that the project will meet the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold standard and that the project will generate as much as 10% of its energy on site through solar panels, a series of small wind turbines, and solar awnings. The Planning Services Manager stated that the project meets the City of Alameda development standards and policies. Staff is recommending approval of the project. The Planning Services Manager introduced Joe Ernst, project manager, of SRM Associates. Mr. Ernst stated that he and his team are excited to bring this high profile campus project for VF Outdoors to the City of Alameda and the Harbor Bay Business Park. He explained that VF Corporation is the second largest apparel design and manufacturing company in the United States. The outdoor division includes nine global brands and North Face, Jansport, and Lucy would be headquartered in Alameda. The project includes outdoor recreation areas such as basketball courts, volleyball courts, and outdoor meeting areas. Mr. Ernst explained that the sustainable design and the LEED Gold Certification was very important to the VF Corporation. The site will have bioswales for the storm water runoff so that the flow rate will be the same as in pre-development state. The solar awnings serve three purposes: they provide shading, generate energy and reflect light into the office spaces, reducing the need for artificial lighting. He further explained the choice of concrete, wood, and steel which will work well for the coastal location. Mr. Ernst stated that the project will bring up to 650 high paid employees to the business park and will provide a benefit to the adjacent retail businesses and the City of Alameda. President Ezzy Ashcraft thanked Mr. Ernst for the presentation. She complimented the North Face brand and its familiarity amongst the younger generation in America. She also mentioned that she is very excited about the project and what it means for Alameda. Planning Board Page 4 of 6 Approved Meeting Minutes 7/26/2010 | PlanningBoard/2010-07-26.pdf |