The West San Carlos Urban Village Plan envisions a rejuvenated corridor characterized by pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, transit-oriented design, and a vibrant blend of residential and commercial spaces. However, as outlined in various sources, notably the feedback provided in the comment letter concerning project H24-046 featuring a proposed Chick-fil-A establishment, there frequently exists a notable disparity between this idealistic vision and the actual content of development proposals.
Clashing Visions: The Project's Incompatibility with the Urban Village Plan
At the heart of the BVNA's opposition lies the contention that the project contradicts the fundamental principles of the West San Carlos Urban Village Plan. The BVNA argues that even without a drive-through, the proposed Chick-fil-A embodies a car-centric approach that undermines the plan's goals of promoting walking, biking, and transit use.
Traffic Troubles: Amplifying Existing Congestion Concerns
The BVNA expresses concerns that the project will exacerbate existing traffic issues in the area, given its proximity to a VTA light rail station, mass transit options, and high-density housing projects, this project should transform into a mixed use project that focuses on pedestrians rather than cars and that we should prioritize solutions that reduce car dependency and support the city's efforts to encourage residents to get out of their cars.
Environmental Impacts: The Loss of Trees and Beyond
The BVNA identifies the removal of mature trees as a "significant environmental loss," emphasizing their importance for air quality, temperature regulation, and wildlife habitat. This concern aligns with a growing awareness of the ecological value of mature trees in urban environments and the need to preserve them whenever possible. The letter also calls for a "thorough assessment" of the project's overall environmental impact, including factors like noise pollution and stormwater runoff. This demand for comprehensive analysis reflects our desire to ensure that new development doesn't come at the expense of the neighborhood's environmental well-being.
A Missed Opportunity: The BVNA's Call for Alternative Approaches
The BVNA concludes by urging the city to prioritize projects that align with the Urban Village Plan's vision, arguing that the proposed Chick-fil-A represents a missed opportunity to pursue development that enhances the neighborhood's character, supports local businesses, and contributes to a more sustainable and livable community. We encourages the city to deny the Site Development Permit application, effectively advocating for a more context-sensitive approach to development that prioritizes the long-term vision for the West San Carlos corridor.
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