SR 05:005 - Laserfiche WebLink

continue to grow and evolve. The Plan identifies objectives, policies, and programs to guide historic preservation throughout the Downtown, and includes a section explicitly tailored to modifications of historic buildings. In specific, the Plan states that "Additions and other modifications to the exteriors of buildings exceeding 50 years in age should match the original building exterior in terms of architectural style and all other exterior design elements." Staff notes that the Planning Commission has, in the past, approved additions and alterations to the front fafade of buildings over 50 years in age, including an addition and modifications to the Jerome Ardent Building (Blue Agave) on November 10, 2004. The 1989 Downtown Specific Plan designates the Jerome Ardent Building as a historic resource of primary importance. Staff believes that through use of traditional materials, finishes, colors and detailing, the proposed retail addition at 4473 Railroad Avenue conforms to the Downtown Specific Plan's historic preservation policies, as well as the Downtown Design Guidelines. The proposed addition will match the materials, detailing, and architectural style of the existing residence and will have window treatments that meet the Guidelines' suggestion for traditional details in such features. Mr. Ervin's proposed mixed-use project would also fulfill the Specific Plan's primary land use, economic vitality, and parking goals by preserving the character and development traditions of the Downtown, retaining residential opportunities, providing additional retail parking, and improving upon the District's commemial viability. The resulting specialty retail space, located on a side street within the Downtown's Central Commercial District, is explicitly encouraged within the Specific Plan since retail storefront displays add interest to the streetscape and encourage pedestrian activity. In addition, retail shops are more likely than most offices to remain open in the evenings and on weekends, thereby drawing customers and increasing the Downtown's economic viability. With the City's renovation and re-use of the Railroad Avenue Fire Station, the addition of retail uses along the street would be complementary and would expand vitality to this part of the Downtown. Please refer to the attached Planning Commission staff report for additional information. FISCAL IMPACT The proposed retail space will generate sales tax revenue for the City of Pleasanton. The project applicant will pay all required applicant fees, as well as all additional costs. CONCLUSION Overall, staff believes the proposed project at 4473 Railroad Avenue meets the intent of the Downtown Specific Plan and Downtown Guidelines. The architectural style of the addition is attractive and appropriate for the Downtown, would complement the existing buildings in the SR:05:005 Page 4