City Council Advances Ambitious Foothill Central Revitalization Plan

The Foothill Central Specific Plan, a significant urban development initiative, was presented to the City Council following a series of discussions and recommendations from the Planning Commission and the Economic Development Committee. Originally introduced in January 2023, the plan was tabled for further review and has since undergone modifications to enhance mixed-use opportunities in commercial zones.

The updated plan aims to revitalize the area spanning from Pepper Avenue to Maple Avenue along Foothill Boulevard, and from Foothill Boulevard to Merrill Avenue, incorporating both residential and commercial developments. This initiative is part of a broader effort to update two critical specific plans for the city, including the Central Area Specific Plan, which has not seen revisions since 1983.

Key highlights of the Foothill Central Specific Plan include the preservation of existing land uses while introducing new residential and commercial opportunities, improved streetscapes, and simplified zoning designations. The plan also emphasizes the incorporation of a Route 66 theme along Foothill Boulevard, aiming to enhance the area's aesthetic appeal and attract visitors.

Community engagement has been a cornerstone of the planning process, with extensive outreach conducted over the past two and a half years. Feedback from public meetings and stakeholder consultations has shaped the vision for the area, which anticipates higher density developments of up to 35 units per acre.

The City Council is now tasked with reviewing the final product, which seeks to balance development with the preservation of property rights, ensuring that existing landowners can maintain their current uses while also exploring new mixed-use possibilities. The plan is expected to guide the city's growth and development over the next three decades, setting the stage for a more vibrant and economically viable community.