The latest iteration of the Larkspur 2023-2031 Housing Element, now accessible on the City's website, unveils a revised approach to housing development. The updated housing site maps  on the web provide additional insights into proposed developments, by allowing stakeholders to click on the specific sites highlighted on the page.

Responding to community input, the City has opted to address concerns regarding additional housing in the Downtown area. Previous proposals earmarked sites like the downtown parking lot, Mt. Tam Racquet Club, and the King of the Roll Sushi restaurant site for potential housing projects, but these have since been withdrawn from consideration. This shift acknowledges community preferences and the desire to safeguard the Downtown area's character and functionality from excessive residential development.

In tandem, significant updates include the retention of 1000 Drakes Landing Road as a housing site, with 18 units slated for development behind the fire station. This site is set to be rezoned to R-3 Multifamily, indicating a strategic shift towards denser housing solutions. For more information, check out our previous article.



Moreover, the City's strategic adjustments involve repurposing underutilized office space for housing. Identifying vacant office buildings such as 511 and 505 Sir Francis Drake as potential housing sites underscores a move to repurpose commercial properties to meet housing needs. While maximizing land use, this strategy aligns with broader trends favoring mixed-use development and adaptive reuse of existing structures, reflecting responsiveness to community input and proactive steps to tackle housing challenges.

However, the decision to eliminate business office space raises valid concerns about its potential impact on economic growth. Converting office buildings into residential units diminishes available office space, potentially curbing opportunities for business expansion and job creation within Larkspur. Despite this, it's crucial to acknowledge the complex factors at play, including the evolving economic landscape and post-pandemic work dynamics. The repurposing of office space for housing may contribute to diversifying the city's economic base, attracting new residents, and stimulating local businesses.

Balancing housing development with job growth is essential for Larkspur's long-term sustainability and vitality. Exploring alternative strategies, such as incentivizing mixed-use developments or identifying new areas for office development, could ensure a resilient economy while meeting housing demands.

The Larkspur Planning Department welcomes feedback on the draft, encouraging stakeholders to engage through the website for inquiries or further information. A formal hearing for deliberation has yet to be scheduled.