Alhambra Community Shares Concerns on Impact of Proposed Zoning Changes

Marisol Greir hosts community members at the Mary Lane Cafe for updates on the pending zoning code changes.
(Photo – Ari Gutierrez Arambula

Public Hearing on Proposed Zoning Changes is slated in advance of Final Council Vote.

By Ari Gutierrez Arambula

On November 13, 2023, at 6:00 pm, the Alhambra City Council (see agendas at cityofalhambra.org) will take up the Comprehensive Zoning Code. The new draft will serve as a “blueprint” or development “map” that city officials may use to issue building and business permits. It will also specify details about parking, fences, public signage, and building heights. Notably, the city proposes to increase max heights for all buildings, including 75’ in commercial zones along the city’s major thoroughfares.

Residents have expressed concerns that, while updates are welcomed for streamlining the permit process and expediting opportunities for new businesses and development, the new zoning code, as proposed, will change the landscape of Alhambra. That is, despite its historic character of suburban single-family homes and apartments, in the future it will be dramatically different, a city of “hi-rise market-rate condos” – an urban alternative to Downtown Los Angeles.

“Our concerns are not about the opportunities for increased affordable housing but more so about the lack a vision and planning for such aggressive development,” explained Marisol Greir, a proponent for a planned Old Town Alhambra development on the East Main Street Corridor.  “As is, the zoning code update will be a missed opportunity to provide sustainable elements to the development citywide including shopping districts, multi-model enhancements to manage traffic, and safety for pedestrians.  Alhambra can do better – residents really need to press their elected leaders now about mitigating the negative impact the proposed zone code changes will bring to our city,” she added.

Ms. Grier will host a community update to review the zoning code concerns on November 8, 2023, at 6:30 pm at the Mary Lane Cafe, 301 N. San Marino, Avenue, San Gabriel, CA 91775.  RSVP at 626-487-6849.

Comments on the Zoning Code update should be emailed by 4:00 pm on November 13 to the City Clerk: LMyles@cityofalhambra.org or call your council member at 626-570-5010.