We are pleased to share our recent advocacy efforts for a vital mixed-use project at 2400–2470 E. Charleston Road in Mountain View. On September 9th, SV@Home formally expressed our support for the project’s gatekeeper application through a letter to the City Council. On September 10th, we reinforced our position with public comments during a Mountain View City Council meeting. We are thrilled that the City Council voted to approve the Gatekeeper project, marking a significant step forward for this critical development.
Mountain View’s Gatekeeper process is a preliminary review stage that proposed developments must navigate to ensure they align with the city’s zoning and growth objectives. This process involves an extensive planning review and requires City Council approval before moving forward. While it aims to address housing needs and urban growth effectively, it can be lengthy and high-risk, potentially leading to delays and increased costs.
The proposed development at 2400-2470 E. Charleston Road will add 450 residential units to the city’s housing stock, including 16.5% of rental apartments reserved for low- and moderate-income households, exceeding the city’s inclusionary requirements. Additionally, it will feature 100 stacked-flat condominiums, with 10 affordable homeownership units for families earning between 80% and 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI). This mix of rental and ownership options is crucial for fostering long-term community stability and mitigating displacement pressures.
Beyond its housing impact, the project offers substantial community and economic benefits. It will introduce 30,000 square feet of retail space, 7,500 square feet of community space, and a public park and community plaza designed to enhance local connections and stimulate new business opportunities. Moreover, the development will provide 450,000 square feet of office space, contributing to economic growth and job creation in the area.
Aligned with Mountain View’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) goals, this development supports a vision of balanced growth by integrating housing production with economic and community benefits. We understand the planning and staffing constraints faced by the City Council, but we would still urge them to prioritize this project. It represents a timely opportunity to address housing shortages and leverage market-rate development to meet the city’s affordable housing needs.