- Many residents oppose repurposing downtown parking lots for housing due to concerns about increased congestion, parking shortages, and loss of the area's character. Several suggest exploring alternative sites like Civic Center parking lots, USGS property, or private developments to better balance housing needs with community preservation.
- A portion of residents and business owners support developing affordable housing on downtown parking lots, believing it will revitalize downtown and address housing shortages, provided that parking and infrastructure issues are adequately managed.
- Many community members advocate for considering other sites such as Civic Center parking lots, SRI property, and USGS land. They emphasize the importance of thorough site evaluation, community input, and avoiding rushed decisions that could harm downtown commerce and neighborhood character.
- There is concern that replacing downtown parking with housing could lead to economic decline due to reduced customer parking, increased traffic, and strained public services. Some emphasize the need for adequate parking solutions and phased development to sustain downtown vitality.
- Community members express frustration over perceived lack of transparency and opportunities for public input, fearing that the current focus on downtown parking lots undermines neighborhood character, existing businesses, and community trust.
- Numerous residents and business owners express concern over parking shortages, advocating for the preservation and expansion of parking facilities in downtown Menlo Park. They oppose converting existing parking lots into housing or reducing parking options, emphasizing that parking is crucial for the vitality of downtown businesses and community life.
- Many community members support reopening Santa Cruz Avenue to vehicular traffic, believing it would improve accessibility, support local businesses, and align with the city’s transportation goals emphasizing walkability and transit use. Opponents highlight that closures hurt retail and pedestrian safety, advocating for streets that prioritize people over cars.
- Several comments oppose using downtown parking lots for housing development, arguing it would exacerbate parking problems, harm small businesses, and diminish downtown's charm. Advocates suggest exploring alternative sites like Civic Center or Willow Road that could better accommodate housing without sacrificing parking.
- Residents urge adherence to city standards for street and sidewalk improvements, especially on Woodland and Woodland Avenue. They call for complete streets initiatives, traffic calming, widening sidewalks, and addressing drainage issues to improve safety and walkability, especially on streets with high pedestrian and cyclist use.
- Community members express opposition to street closures like Santa Cruz Avenue, citing negative impacts on traffic flow, business accessibility, and overall downtown vibrancy. They advocate for careful community-driven planning aligned with city transportation policies to maintain a vibrant pedestrian-friendly downtown.
- Some residents raise safety concerns associated with high-density housing and parking lot developments, citing potential issues for emergency access, fire safety, and overall infrastructure capacity. They recommend thorough feasibility and safety studies prior to approving such projects.
- Many community voices oppose current development proposals, emphasizing the need for transparent, community-supported planning and alternative solutions for affordable housing that do not compromise parking and downtown vitality.
- Numerous residents, business owners, and community leaders oppose the proposed development of high-density housing on downtown parking lots, emphasizing that existing parking is heavily used, essential for downtown vitality, and that the lots are not surplus land. Many advocate for alternatives such as the Civic Center site or underground parking structures, highlighting concerns about increased traffic, loss of business, and community disruption.
- Over 2,900 signatures of residents, numerous public comments, and petitions strongly oppose using downtown parking lots for housing, citing potential negative impacts like reduced parking, traffic congestion, damage to local businesses, and loss of the small-town atmosphere. Opponents also express distrust of the process and legal fears related to land use and property rights.
- Many residents and business owners warn that eliminating parking will harm existing businesses such as retail, restaurants, and service providers, turning downtown into a 'ghost town'. Concerns include the affordability of parking structures, the disruption caused by construction, and the loss of the community character tied to accessible parking and vibrant local commerce.
- Community members suggest exploring other locations like the Civic Center, Bayfront, or VA lands for housing to preserve downtown parking and character. Many call for comprehensive impact studies, proper planning, and staged development—including parking infrastructure—to avoid economic and social harm.
- Supporters argue that housing, especially near transit, is essential for addressing affordability, reducing commute times, and supporting local services. They advocate for high-quality amenities like parks, sports fields, and pedestrian-friendly streets to enhance livability while preserving parking and community identity.
- Several comments highlight legal uncertainties surrounding the declaration of parking lots as 'surplus land' and urge transparency in RFQ processes. Some warn that rushed approvals could lead to lawsuits and community discontent, advocating for thorough impact assessments and community engagement before development plans proceed.
- A recurring theme is the need to prioritize walkability, reduce reliance on cars, and implement sustainable planning. Advocates emphasize that cities like Palo Alto are successfully integrating parking and housing, and Menlo Park should follow suit with thoughtful, community-driven development that balances growth with existing character.
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