Residents raise concerns over Haven's proposed development on Third Avenue

In the heart of Walnut Creek, a community meeting unfolded under the warm glow of city hall lights, where residents gathered to voice their concerns about a proposed development that could reshape their neighborhood. The Walnut Creek Design Review Commission meeting on December 18, 2025, became a platform for local voices, echoing a shared sentiment of apprehension regarding the impact of new construction on their cherished community.

Debbie Tabalski, a long-time resident of Third Avenue, stepped up to the microphone, her voice tinged with both nostalgia and concern. “I’ve lived here for 25 years,” she shared, reflecting on the charm of the neighborhood, characterized by its single-family ranch-style homes and mature trees. Her worries centered on the removal of 19 trees for the new development, replaced by magnolias that she felt would disrupt the area’s aesthetic. “We’re concerned that this isn’t going to quite fit in with the charming older community,” she stated, highlighting the potential for increased parking congestion as well.

Jim Tuggle, a neighbor across the street, echoed her sentiments, pointing out the inadequacy of the proposed parking solutions. With only six guest parking slots and no driveways, he foresaw a future of overflow parking spilling onto the streets, exacerbating existing issues. “People these days don’t use their garages as garages,” he noted, painting a picture of a congested neighborhood struggling to accommodate new residents.

Cynthia Schneider, living adjacent to the proposed site, raised additional concerns about privacy and the potential for direct sightlines into her backyard from the new two-story buildings. She suggested that there might be room for negotiation with the developers to preserve certain elements of the existing landscape, such as a heritage tree that was slated for removal. Schneider also questioned the concept of “affordable housing” when prices for new units could soar to over a million dollars, expressing a desire for a collaborative approach to the development that would respect both community needs and the developers’ goals.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the residents were not against development per se, but rather sought a balance that would maintain the character of their neighborhood while accommodating growth. The discussions highlighted a community grappling with change, where the desire for modernization clashed with the longing for preservation.

The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency for further dialogue between the developers and the community. Residents left with a hope that their voices would be heard, and that together, they could find a path forward that honors both the past and the future of Walnut Creek. As the city continues to evolve, the challenge remains: how to embrace new opportunities while safeguarding the unique charm that makes this community special.