Save Downtown Menlo Park has filed a notice of intent with the city against proposed housing on three public parking lots, citing major concerns. Around 40 local stakeholders argue that the plan, which aims to build at least 340 housing units, would eliminate essential parking spaces, jeopardizing local businesses. The group insists that any moves to reduce public parking should be decided by voters. They emphasize that these lots are vital community assets and should be protected from private development, contrasting with calls for urgent housing solutions amid a housing crisis.
"This initiative simply says that any plan to diminish public parking downtown should go to the voters," said Alex Beltramo, a leader of Save Downtown Menlo Park.
"The plazas are public assets, and the public deserves a say before they're lost forever." They described downtown Menlo Park as a community hub.
Opponents contend the plan would eliminate over 500 parking spaces, even temporarily, harming small businesses reliant on customer access.
Proponents of the redevelopment argue that the city must act swiftly to build housing wherever possible amid an escalating housing crisis.
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