UNFINISHED BUSINESS! It is exciting to take on new projects that either replace existing structures or build on a currently blank canvas. A myriad of possibilities are open to discussion; practical issues are theoretical problems to be considered and overcome, yet cause little immediate impact. In planning and political circles, current growth, development and redevelopment models are incorporated in models designed for a future of many years and decades. A plethora of “modern” and “futuristic” designs emerge that although tantalizing now, can become dull and dated. Some bright ideas of the past, incorporated into commercial, retail and residential development, suburban shopping centers, malls, urban spaces, big box retail, enterprise zones and the like are now considered blight. Once fashionable concepts can fade; design moves on over the years – some endures while some fall out of favor and languish or devolve into disrepair. Throughout this cycle of change and fascination for the newest idea, problems with deep roots in past plans remain and need attention. Although many of our local Southeast Bay cities have recent incorporation dates, past actions, inactions and decisions of past decades intrude on the present and need to be addressed along with the bells and whistles of new developments. One such issue, long overdue for attention in Fremont (and others), is traffic patterns coupled with population growth. In this case, the BART extension through instead of to Fremont will soon become a reality. How will this impact all districts, not just those adjacent to a new station? The addition of housing and current congestion in the Mission San Jose district is not a new pressing problem. It will soon increase as development plans progress. Mission Boulevard has become a de facto expressway, gridlocked during rush hours, impacting side streets, Ohlone College and retail commerce. As a heavily used north-south connection to all points of the compass and neighboring cities, creative, concentrated effort is needed to figure out what to do. Building more residences along this corridor is not a fix, rather adds to the problem. What about traffic, schools, quality of life? Has this been addressed? Another real, and in some ways welcome, problem for the Tri-Cities is the natural beauty of our area. It makes our lives pleasant but also attracts others from around the Bay who also would like to enjoy it. This is a testament to singular and exceptional local features, but when current infrastructure is unable to handle an influx of people attracted to these facilities, our elected officials need to recognize and address the problem. An example is the situation that occurs almost constantly at the trailhead to Mission Peak on Stanford Avenue. A constant problem that is given little or no attention; citizens of surrounding neighborhoods are left to deal with it. Even when elected officials have been put on notice in the past, attention soon gives way to ennui and negligence. Why? For a video look at what goes on, visit: https://youtube/watch?v=czTS_yMzzKk. Each city has a list of its own “unfinished business” that demands at least as much attention as shiny, new baubles of the next, best and greatest idea. Attention to what exists and resolution of its problems is paramount to a healthy and vibrant city. Benign neglect is not compassionate or helpful. At a recent Fremont City Council meeting, a referral by Councilmember Sue Chan asked Staff to examine the state of affordable housing and why so little has been actually accomplished. Although Fremont claims it is ahead of most other cities in this regard, it was recognized that very few cities have actually accomplished much; being the best of the worst is still pitiful. It may be time for each city to establish a citizen committee or commission to dust off the shelves of neglect and sift through “unfinished business.
Posted on: Wed, 23 Apr 2014 16:50:36 +0000
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