It’s been a while since we’ve added a post to our 831ResponsibleDevelopment.org web site and communicated with our subscribers and petition-signers. That’s because, at least publicly, there has been no news to share with you about the 831 Water Street project that, as proposed, has drawn considerable opposition from neighbors and other Santa Cruz residents.

While we continue to recognize the need for additional housing in our local area, we also continue to believe that developers should propose projects that add housing in a way that is respectful of existing neighborhoods.

On the subject of housing, we want to make sure that you know that the city is currently embarking on a planning study to consider future redevelopment of the area south of Laurel Street. As described on this city web page, project planning will result in City Council adoption of new policies, development standards, and design guidelines that will guide future development of the study area.

The city is currently seeking additional community input on setting priorities and identifying preferences for features relating to transportation and mobility, architecture, public space and streetscapes, and the new permanent Warriors Arena.

English and Spanish links to a community survey can be found on that city web page. The survey is open for responses through September 1.

As always, THANK YOU for staying engaged!