REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Approve Updated Design Vocabulary for Gateway Signs in Downtown (File # 2022-7483)
Report
BACKGROUND
Since the adoption of the first Downtown Specific Plan (DSP) in 1993, gateway features have been envisioned for key intersections to help identify Downtown as a special place. Significant updates to the DSP in 2003 expanded the streetscape standards to cover Gateways and Wayfinding. Gateways and Wayfinding are also included in the 2020 DSP update stating, "the purpose of Downtown gateways is to announce arrival to the Downtown Core while the neighborhood entries/gateways establish neighborhood boundaries."
In November 2005 the City Council considered a Study Issue for a New Streetscape Revitalization Plan for the 100 Block of South Murphy Avenue (RTC No. 05-351). The first concept for a Downtown gateway feature (for Murphy Avenue) was included in the Design Plan approved by the City Council.
Redevelopment of the Town Center site (Sandhill Properties and their partners) was approved in February 2007 which included the demolition of the enclosed mall and reinstatement of the street grid. McKinley Avenue was approved to connect from Mathilda to Sunnyvale avenues and serve as a main entry to the new mixed-use development. The project was conditioned to install Downtown Gateway elements in or adjacent to the public right of way at: 1) S. Mathilda Avenue and W. McKinley Avenue; and 2) S. Mathilda Avenue and W. Washington Avenue (a major entry to the Downtown). These gateway elements are subject to the review and approval of the Director of Community Development and City Transportation and Traffic Manager (if located within the public right of way). The entire development project was stalled due to bankruptcy of one of the financial partners.
In 2007, City staff worked with a consultant to study gateway and wayfinding options throughout the Downtown. The consultant developed design alternatives, which are contained in Attachment 1. ...
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