Date Submitted: 6/19/2014 File Number: 14PLN-00222
Project Type: Architectural Review (AR) Address: 425 and 429 University Avenue
Project Description: Request by Kipling Post LP for a Major Architectural Review to allow for the demolition of two one-story commercial structures on two existing parcels (425 University and 429 University), and the construction of a new four-story, approximately 32,000 sq.ft., mixed-use building with ground floor retail, second floor office, three residential units on the third floor, and one residential unit and commercial uses, on the fourth floor. Zoning District: CD-C(GF)(P).
The Architectural Review Board (ARB) reviewed the staff report, which included references to context based design criteria, ARB findings contained in the Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) Section 18.76.020 (d), and the Downtown Urban Design Guide; heard from the applicant and reviewed the project plans; and received public testimony at three public hearings. The ARB had also conducted a Preliminary Review of concept plans in November 2013. Past ARB reports can be found at the link below.
At the February 19, 2015 ARB hearing, the ARB recommend approval of the project with conditions. The Director's Designee conditionally approved the project on February 25, 2015 as recommended by the ARB. The Director's approval included the adoption of the Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Program.
Per PAMC Ch 18.77.070 any party, including the applicant, may file an appeal of the director's decision with the planning division within the prescribed period. An appeal was filed on March 11, 2015. The appeal was placed on the consent calendar of April 6, 2015. City Council voted to discuss the appeal and requested the applicant to redesign the project.
The project has been redesigned and returned to the Historic Resources Board on September 10, 2015 and the Architectural Review Board on September 17, 2015.
