Neighbors raise traffic, solar and safety concerns about proposed Claremont senior-housing site

Six neighbors spoke during open forum about a proposed redevelopment of the former Red Cross site on Claremont Avenue, urging the Planning Commission and staff to require additional studies and design changes before a formal application is accepted.

Alison Hightower said she has lived in Rockridge more than 30 years and asked the commission to require a traffic study to understand how a large building at the site would affect pedestrian safety and parking. "We would like the Commission to consider, requiring a traffic study in order to see what the impact would be of the very large, building that is being proposed," she said.

Kerry Goff raised shadow and solar-energy concerns, warning that shadow projections show existing solar panels on Auburn and Florio Streets "will significantly be denied sunlight, especially in the winter months." Goff also questioned whether units described in testimony as renting for $10,000–$12,000 per month would qualify as senior housing given median senior incomes.

Architect Javier Arizmendi urged staff to ensure the fire marshal reviews height, setbacks, and access; he said the project's measurement of building height and small setbacks could require additional hydrants or standpipes and limit openings and ventilation. Andrew Del Motto and Robin Mays emphasized constrained infrastructure, intersection safety at Claremont/College/62nd, cumulative traffic from service vehicles, and the need for emergency access and parking accommodations. Adam Browning voiced support for housing overall but urged a design more respectful of neighborhood character.

Staff clarified the proposal is in a pre-application stage under SB 330 and has not yet been submitted as a complete application with fees or staff analysis; technical reviews (shadow studies, fire-department review) will occur during formal application and permit review. Commissioners and staff encouraged commenters to submit detailed technical information when and if an application is filed.

No formal action was taken on the project at this meeting; staff asked the public to note the current pre-application status and confirmed that staff does not perform full analysis until an application is deemed complete.