In a recent meeting of the Design Review Commission in Lafayette, California, city planners presented a proposal for hillside development permits and variances concerning properties at 337 and 339 Carlisle Terrace. The proposal aims to construct a retaining wall to stabilize a slope that has experienced a failure, posing risks to the existing homes in the area.

The properties are situated in the Hillside Overlay District and are zoned for single-family homes. The slope failure occurred along the shared rear property line, necessitating the construction of a new retaining wall to prevent further instability. The proposed wall will be strategically placed above the landslide's head and is designed to blend with the natural landscape, ensuring it remains largely invisible from public view due to the presence of mature trees.

The new retaining wall will replace a previously failed structure and will include advanced features such as 18-inch diameter piers, tiebacks for lateral support, and a subdraining system to manage water flow and reduce erosion. The wall will vary in height from 4 to 9 feet and will be topped with a safety guardrail. Importantly, the project aligns with the city’s general plan, which emphasizes slope stabilization and hazard mitigation.

During the meeting, city engineers raised several questions regarding the project, including the need for a remediation plan for the lower slide area and the management of drainage runoff from the homes. In response, city staff proposed additional conditions of approval to address these concerns, including a supplemental slope remediation plan and a revised drainage plan.

Public notices were distributed to nearby property owners, and no comments were received prior to the hearing, indicating a lack of opposition to the project. The commission is expected to approve the project, exempting it from further environmental review under CEQA regulations.

This proposal reflects the city’s ongoing efforts to address safety concerns related to hillside development while balancing the needs of homeowners and the surrounding environment. As Lafayette continues to navigate the challenges of hillside stability, this project serves as a critical step in ensuring the safety and integrity of residential areas prone to geological hazards.