Santa Monica Residents to Discuss Downtown Specific Plan

November 27, 2012 -- On December 5, Santa Monica City officials will hold a third community workshop for the Downtown Specific Plan.

At the meeting, which will take place in the East Wing of the Civic Center from 7 to 9 p.m., staff will ask for residents' input on how to shape the future of “Santa Monica's living room.”

Staff will specifically be looking for input on “unique experiences, places and buildings that showcase what makes Downtown so special,” staff said.

Residents will also be given a chance to weigh in on staff's “ideas for making a walkable and complete Downtown filled with great buildings, public spaces and exciting destination for residents and visitors,” staff said.

The Downtown Specific Plan will "provide a framework for guiding and integrating new uses and activities within the project area, and will become the basis for review and approval of all projects within its boundaries,” according to City staff.

One key issue will be the allowable height of buildings, which is taller under the current specific plan than under the Land Use and Circulation Element (LUCE), adopted in 2010.

The LUCE defers setting height limits to the Downtown Specific Plan.

Another key issue will be the creation of open spaces and "strong connections" to the new Expo Light Rail station, which is expected to reach Downtown Santa Monica by 2016, officials said.

Planners also will have to consider the transitions between Downtown and its adjoining zones, which are more residential, City officials said.

At the December 5 meeting, residents will get a chance to hear how the plan is coming along.

To RSVP, send an email to DowntownPlan@smgov.net or call (310) 458-8341.