Can We Add Housing Without Losing Convenience?

Everyone agrees Silicon Valley needs more housing, but what happens when new housing starts replacing the places we rely on every day?

That’s the debate happening right now in North Sunnyvale. Two older shopping centers are being considered for redevelopment into housing (Fair Oaks Plaza and Lakewood Shopping Center), and while most residents support adding more homes, many are concerned about what could be lost in the process. Grocery stores, restaurants, and other neighborhood businesses that people use every week could be replaced or significantly reduced.

The discussion has sparked a lot of community interest because it’s not the typical growth versus no growth argument. Most people seem to agree that more housing is needed. The challenge is figuring out how to add new homes while still preserving the services that make a neighborhood convenient and livable.  You know, the reasons people want to live there! 

It’s a conversation we’re likely to see more often throughout Santa Clara County. As cities work to meet housing goals, more aging shopping centers and commercial properties will become redevelopment opportunities. The question is whether we can create more housing without creating longer drives for groceries, dining, and other everyday needs.

Read Also: Cupertino Fixer-Upper Or Move-In Ready? How To Decide