Save north Los Altos residential neighborhoods

ABHOW, the company which owns the Pilgrim Haven continuing care facility on Pine Lane, is asking the city for permission to more than double the size of the facility and expand onto an adjacent 1.2 acre residential lot and and rezone it. The new facility, surrounded on all sides by single-story homes and Santa Rita Elementary school, as proposed consists of 35-foot tall, two- and three-story buildings, totaling 215,000 square feet on six acres, and will take three plus years to complete.

The local neighbors are in favor of Pilgrim Haven modernization, but within reasonable limits given the location of Pilgrim Haven in an otherwise entirely residential neighborhood, adjacent to an elementary school.

Principles for Responsible Pilgrim Haven Renovation

125% Limit: Total scope and density of PH buildings should be consistent with neighboring houses - lot coverage and enclosed space should not exceed by more than 25% those of neighbors across street (sized to same total parcel size).

Two story limit: Building height limited to two stories (e.g. ~ 26' max) and width cannot be more than two successive homes on Pine Lane (e.g. ~ 200' max).

No urban features: A scope and density that eliminates the need for underground parking or other urban features.

Consistent renovation: Renovation of single-story cottages should be consistent with look and feel of cottages at the far west end of Pilgrim Haven.

Maintain zoning: Preserve the existing residential zoning of the adjoining orchard property (the former Spagnoli residence at the corner of Los Altos Ave and Pine Lane) to maintain the residential character of the neighborhood.

Minimize disruption to and maximize safety for nearby schools while supporting PH renovation

Disruption of School Day: Minimize construction traffic and noise during school/commute hours. Limit demolition and excavation (if needed) to summer months when schools are not in session.

Two year project: Limit construction project span to a maximum of two years with a substantial fine payable by PH to local schools for each month of construction overrun.