Peggy - Vallco impact on aesthetics, views of real hills

 From: Peggy Griffin
Date: Sun, Nov 15, 2015 at 7:16 PM
Subject: [Better Cupertino WG] Vallco EIR Scoping Comments - impact on Aesthetics
To: Piu Ghosh <PiuG@cupertino.org>
Cc: Grace Schmidt <cityclerk@cupertino.org>

SUBJECT:  Vallco EIR Scoping Comments – impact on aesthetics

 

IMPACT ON AESTHETICS

1.      Currently, people can see the hills from many locations throughout the Vallco and surrounding areas.  Due to the height and density of the Hills-at-Vallco project, views of the “real” hills, the sunset, the sunrise, the moonrise will be blocked.  The existing Montebello Condominiums at the corner of Stevens Creek and De Anza Blvd. block the views of the hillside of homes as far away as 1/3 of a mile!

 

              Please study the impact to all homes within at least a 1/3 mile distance surrounding this project area.  This should also include homes in Sunnyvale.

               Please study the impact on gardens and landscaping due to the possible loss of early morning sun or late afternoon sun.

 

2.      Currently, the area is known and loved for the double row of Ash trees that line the sidewalks along Stevens Creek Blvd and Wolfe Roads. 

Please study the impact of the potential loss of these trees.  It is not the same to plant a 36” box tree!  These trees are large mature trees that provide shade and a calm, relaxing atmosphere in which to walk. 

 

3.       The project proposes a huge “roof” over a large part of the area.  This will prevent views of the “real” hills, the sunset, the sunrise, the moonrise from most of the locations within the project unless they climb on the “rooftop”. 

 

Please study the impact of this project on new residents, office workers and visitors.

 

4.      There are 2 parcels at the back of the Vallco Specific Planning area, one is the site of a proposed Hyatt Hotel, the other is in the northwest corner by the Permeter Road wall and I-280.  These are not owned by Sand Hill Properties but are directly and indirectly impacted by this project.  The enormous height and density of the project will block any views these sites have of the hills, the sun, etc.

Please study the aesthetic impacts of this SHP project on the other properties within the specific planning area.


5.      There are currently apartments and condominiums in the South Vallco Park area that will end up being towered by the proposed project.  They currently have views of the hills, sunsets, sunrise, moonrise and of the trees.

Please study the impact on these units.

 

Sincerely,

Peggy Griffin