Santa Cruz plans mixed-use development with enhanced community features and accessibility

On April 16, 2025, Santa Cruz City Planning officials convened to discuss significant developments in local housing projects, particularly focusing on a mixed-use development that has been in the works since 2018. The project, located in a prominent area characterized by older residences and vacant commercial buildings, aims to address the growing housing demands in the city.

The development team, which has been involved since 2022, outlined their progress and community engagement efforts. Initial plans faced delays due to the absence of Flexible Development Units (FDUs), which were only introduced after the original application. However, with the new guidelines in place, the project is set to begin construction in spring 2026, with an estimated build time of two and a half years.

A key aspect of the project is its responsiveness to community feedback. The developers have significantly increased the proportion of family-sized units from 2% to 35%, adding approximately 120 new units. This adjustment reflects a commitment to creating more inclusive housing options. Additionally, the design has been modified to alleviate neighborhood concerns, including reducing vehicular access points and building height along May Street, while shifting some height to Ocean Street, which is better suited for larger structures.

The introduction of a mid-block Paseo—a pedestrian pathway—was highlighted as a major enhancement to the project. This feature aims to improve connectivity and accessibility, allowing residents to easily reach nearby bus stops and transit options. The project also integrates commercial spaces designed for flexibility, accommodating both indoor and outdoor activities, which is particularly relevant in a post-pandemic context.

Further improvements include the relocation of trash services away from busy streets to minimize disruption and the incorporation of green spaces and amenities, such as a pet spa and surf shop, catering to the local lifestyle. The design emphasizes sustainability, with reduced parking and a focus on creating open, communal areas for residents.

In conclusion, the Santa Cruz City Planning meeting underscored the importance of community involvement in urban development. As the project moves forward, it aims to balance the needs for housing, commercial space, and community engagement, setting a precedent for future developments in the area. The next steps will involve finalizing design details and ensuring compliance with city standards, as the community eagerly anticipates the transformation of this key location.