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Published on 01/04/1999 All articles from this issue

City considers process for developing First and Main

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By Joanne Griffith Domingue / Town Crier Staff Writer

The city council gave the city manger the nod to design a request for proposals to go to the development community for the city-owned corner at First and Main streets.

In the past, the city of Los Altos has typically hired a consultant for an in-depth study before proceeding with development of a city-owned site.

But this time, "because we've had a lot of interest in the site," said city manager Phil Rose, he recommended to council members that they consider this new direction before spending $20,000 to $25,000 on a consultant.

At its Dec. 15 council meeting, council members gave Rose a green light to go in this direction.

The city bought the corner in 1995 to create options for more downtown parking. Income from current leases, the dry cleaners and the home consignment center, covers the expenses of the property.

The city also considers this a key gateway to the downtown area, and so is particular about what might go on the corner.

Rose said Safeway is interested in the site. "They need more parking and would like to expand their building," he said.

In fact, they were one of the original bidders on the site, he said.

Other developers have approached the city about putting a small hotel or a theater on the corner. Some have mentioned retail stores for the site.

"The whole idea, merchants want more parking," Rose said. So "one option is to bring in a use with 'complementary parking,' a use that doesn't need parking at noon," Rose said, when the downtown merchants' needs are greatest.

The proposal for the new direction has been sent to the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce and the Los Altos Village Association.

Julie Rose, executive director at the chamber, said she has received the proposal, and her group "will be reviewing it in early January."

Kathleen Byrne, executive director of the village association, also has received the proposal. She said the association's Parking 2000 committee will be reviewing it in early January.