So much of Sausalito’s history is anchored in its Downtown, and yet time is running out to preserve it for future generations.
Why the Historic District Preservation Alternative is Needed
These sites pose a serious risk to Sausalito’s Downtown Historic District, which is one of only twelve historic districts in California. Overdevelopment of these sites could destroy the district’s historic character and cause the district to lose its historic designation altogether.
The Draft EIR acknowledges that development here could have “significant and unavoidable” impacts on the historic resources, even with mitigation. Removing Sites 201 and 212 from the Housing Element would allow the city to meet its housing goals without damaging the city’s historic and biological resources.
SOS also requests that the city address the following in the Amended EIR:
Historic Resources: Correct the DEIR’s statement that Opportunity Site 201 has no historic buildings. 605 Bridgeway is specifically listed on the State of California’s website designating historic buildings.
Special-Status Species: A full inventory and impact analysis of special-status species in the Housing Opportunity Sites.
Impacts of Ordinances 1022 & 1128: Analysis of the impact of eliminating key zoning protections under these ordinances.
Impact of Subjective Standards & View Ordinances: Evaluation of how eliminating subjective standards and view protections could affect Sausalito’s character.
Save Our Sausalito urges the city to consider the Historic District Preservation Alternative in its EIR. This alternative is the most effective way to protect Sausalito’s Historic District, while still meeting housing goals. With this approach, the city can balance growth with preservation.
