Planning commission approves 122‑unit Stevens Creek housing development after debate over loss of retail

The Cupertino Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a 122‑unit for‑sale residential project at the Stevens Creek Office Center, a redevelopment that replaces aging office and retail buildings with 66 single‑family homes and 56 townhomes and provides 24 below‑market‑rate (BMR) units.

Shelby Maples, the city project planner, told commissioners the application requests a use permit, tentative map, architectural and site approval, and a tree removal permit. Maples said the project proposes removal of 249 trees with 151 proposed for on‑site replacement and the remainder addressed through an in‑lieu fee. She summarized that the project was submitted under state streamlining rules and cited the Housing Accountability Act, SB 330/AB 130, and density‑bonus law as relevant state authorities for the review.

Kevin Choi, representing Harvest Properties, described the proposal as “The Canopies,” a 6.8‑acre site redevelopment that he said will deliver for‑sale family housing and…