Redwood City, California Development News

Redwood City Council Expands GDAP Boundary East of Woodside Road Amidst Discussion on Timing and Community Outreach

The City Council considered an expansion of the Greater Downtown Area Plan (GDAP) boundary to include the area east of Woodside Road, generally bounded by Highway 101, Douglas Avenue, and Bay Road, with a spur to Spring Street. This area is currently zoned as light industrial overlay and mixed-use transitional, primarily housing light industrial businesses and contributing significantly to the city's industrial land and jobs. Councilmembers discussed the potential impacts on the local economy, job diversity, and the existing industrial sector, as well as mobility improvements and the GDAP's timeline. Concerns were raised about delaying the GDAP, the financial implications of expansion, and the need for extensive community and business owner outreach. Ultimately, the council voted to expand the GDAP boundary, directing staff to draft an amended scope of work and budget, with an emphasis on person-centered streets and a commitment to future community engagement and a potential precise plan for the expansion area.