pages: PlanningBoard/2015-05-11.pdf, 6
This data as json
body | date | page | text | path |
---|---|---|---|---|
PlanningBoard | 2015-05-11 | 6 | The Board closed public comment. Board Member Knox White asked Mr. Thomas if the development plan and the TDM plans were consistent with the plans adopted by the City. Mr. Thomas replied in the affirmative. Board Member Knox White said that he advocated for a piece-by-piece approach to developing Alameda Point, and reminded the public that voters have also supported this approach. He said that other projects have failed because there were no amenities, such as restaurants, for their workers. He said that the infrastructure at the Point is falling apart, and that the City will lose businesses if the infrastructure is not upgraded. He thanked Ms. Jennifer Ott, Chief Operating Officer of Alameda Point, for her work, and praised the work of Alameda Point Partners for their responsiveness to the community. He said he would like to include an motion to the City Council recommending approval of the TDM plan. Board Member Burton thanked staff and the developer for their hard work. He asked to include at least one accessible bedroom in the first floor, and asked the percentage of accessible townhouse bedrooms. Mr. Thomas replied that the percentage was 10%. Board Member Burton asked to ensure that different architects designed different facing blocks. He asked for clarifying language to improve the street elevations. He thanked the community for their support of the project, and said that this project would mark the beginning of the rebirth of the Base. He said he was a skeptic of the City's plan to be its own developer at first, but he was glad that staff was able to do the work that they did. He said that the project would pay for infrastructure, and include shops, amenities, and housing for workers. He said that the benefits of the project far outweigh the drawbacks. The housing shortage is real in Alameda and this project helps address this concern. He enthusiastically supported the plan and urged passage of the development plan by the City Council. Board Member Tang echoed Board Member Burton's comments. He said that the plan takes advantage of the land in Alameda. He was also excited that Alameda Point could draw tourists for its sailing and retail opportunities. The City would benefit from all of the tax revenue that would come from the increased jobs. The issue of affordable housing in the City is relative. He said he agreed with the speaker who said that said that the composition of the housing stock has to reflect the changing lifestyles of residents. Board Member Tang said that the shuttle service running to BART should be more frequent during rush hour and less frequent during off-peak hours. Board Member Zuppan thanked the public for their input. She said that the development team has done an incredible job, and has brought together an entire community. She understood that many people had different opinions, and said the team made a sincere effort to address all of the concerns. She said she was privileged to serve on the Site A subcommittee. She called the project attractive and one that will make the City of Alameda proud. Board Member Köster thanked the public for their comments, and staff for their hard work. He urged approval of the project. He said that there have been five economic booms and Approved Regular Meeting Minutes Page 6 of 10 May 11, , 2015 | PlanningBoard/2015-05-11.pdf |