- Many residents and business owners support developing affordable housing on downtown parking lots to revitalize downtown, support local workers, and meet state housing mandates, emphasizing the importance of maintaining downtown character and infrastructure.
- A significant portion of residents oppose converting downtown parking lots into housing, citing concerns about increased traffic, diminished downtown charm, insufficient impact assessments, and potential economic impacts, advocating instead for alternative sites like Civic Center and USGS land.
- Several residents and officials suggest exploring other locations for affordable housing, including city-owned sites such as Civic Center parking lots and the USGS campus, arguing these are more viable and less disruptive options than downtown parking areas.
- Opposition is raised against large-scale developments like the proposed multi-tower project at 80 Willow Road and a mini-city at 80 Willow Road, citing disproportionate scale, negative impacts on the community, traffic, and local schools.
- Many residents emphasize the importance of preserving Menlo Park's unique, low-key, family-friendly atmosphere, cautioning against densification that could harm the city’s aesthetic and community vibe.
- Discussion includes the need for full environmental reviews, proper site selection, community approval, and compliance with state mandates, advocating for careful analysis and protection of existing parks and open spaces.
- Residents express worries that converting parking lots could jeopardize downtown businesses, lead to congestion, and threaten sales tax revenue, urging the city to consider the financial and infrastructural implications of proposed housing projects.
- Supporters call for a balanced approach, utilizing available city-owned sites like Civic Center and USGS land, and emphasize housing solutions that align with city planning, community needs, and the preservation of quality of life.
- Booking.com notified hotel management of guest complaints involving staff and accommodation issues, urging prompt resolution and guest contact to ensure satisfaction.
- Many residents and downtown businesses oppose proposals to convert parking lots into affordable or high-density housing, citing concerns over traffic, parking shortages, business decline, and preservation of downtown charm.
- Community members advocate for exploring sites outside downtown, such as civic centers or Willow Road, to prevent negative impacts on traffic, businesses, property values, and maintain downtown integrity.
- Multiple residents express worries that new housing on parking lots will reduce available parking, worsen traffic congestion, and harm local businesses, urging consideration of other locations.
- Community members criticize proposed ordinances targeting RVs and oversized vehicles, citing potential legal issues, displacement risks, and the need for supportive, non-policing solutions addressing homelessness.
- Residents recommend supporting transitional housing programs, safe parking initiatives, and spreading development across districts to reduce strain on downtown infrastructure and to address housing shortages responsibly.
- Residents call for thorough studies, citizen involvement, and consideration of alternative, less disruptive locations for housing development, emphasizing preservation of downtown character and business vitality.
- Widespread resident and business opposition to converting downtown Menlo Park parking lots into affordable housing, citing concerns about parking loss, traffic congestion, negative impact on local businesses, and downtown character preservation. Many advocates request alternative locations like Civic Center or SRI. Significant community petitions, opposition percentages, and concerns about economic and social impacts are highlighted.
- Numerous residents support affordable housing on city-owned parking lots, emphasizing the benefits of increasing housing for workers, teachers, seniors, and families. They advocate for replacing parking with structures, ensuring parking is maintained or improved, and integrating community amenities such as sports fields and recreational facilities. Some call for transparency and careful planning, including alternative sites and infrastructure considerations.
- Questions raised about the legal implications of designating parking lots as surplus land, potential lawsuits, and the process of RFQ and development agreements. Several comments emphasize the need for a transparent, community-involved planning process, addressing traffic, infrastructure, and economic impacts. There's also concern about the timeline, developers' roles, and ensuring parking replacement.
- Criticism of high-density housing proposals, citing potential negative effects on downtown vitality, existing businesses, congestion, and community character. Many suggest exploring other sites like Civic Center or Bayfront. Several comments warn that loss of parking and overbuilding could turn downtown into a 'ghost town' or diminish its attractiveness, advocating for balanced development and better communication.
- Advocates emphasize the importance of regional solutions, alternative sites (e.g., Civic Center, SRI, VA land), parking structures, and zoning adjustments. They stress that unduly rushing housing projects without comprehensive planning, community input, and infrastructure can backfire, damaging downtown viability. There's a call for a balanced, strategic approach that aligns with environmental, social, and economic goals.
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