Commission reviews revisions to 301 East project, asks for landscape clarifications
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Summary
Developers presented a small increase in floor area and revised landscape plans for the 301 East project near the Laguna Channel. Commissioners welcomed landscape simplification and native restoration but asked for further detail on fencing/setbacks, permeable paving durability and pedestrian access to the Laguna Channel; the item was continued for further work.
The Historic Landmarks Commission heard an update Dec. 3 on a revised nonresidential proposal at 301 East (revised from ~39,800 to ~41,700 net sq ft). The development would place two buildings around a courtyard on a 3‑acre lot, provide habitat restoration at the adjacent Laguna Channel and about 98 vehicle spaces.
Applicant representatives emphasized landscape changes: simplified hardscape, larger planted islands, consolidated permeable paving and a full native restoration plan for the channel edge. Designers said they removed a palm‑lined driveway idea in favor of a more natural approach that ties into the restoration area and proposed specimen Monterey pines and a mix of sycamores and oaks at the entry.
Commissioners questioned pedestrian access by the channel (staff and applicants confirmed the channel will not be made publicly accessible and a 42‑inch split rail or wrought‑iron fence aligns with the top‑of‑bank constraints), asked for clearer civil/landscape sheet references, and flagged long‑term maintenance and durability concerns about permeable paving. A union representative asked the commission to encourage local hiring and prevailing‑wage requirements; commissioners noted labor and contracting conditions fall under separate city review processes.
The commission found the project updates generally supportable but continued the item with comments about preferred fence siting, a clearer landscape planting schedule, lighting, and permeable paving details to be provided with the next submittal.