URGENT UPDATE: Developers have dramatically revised their housing project in Los Gatos, cutting the proposed units by two-thirds. The new application for the Newtown development, submitted on November 13, 2024, reflects a shift in strategy following initial pushback from town officials.
The original plan by Green Valley Corporation, associated with Swenson Builders, aimed to build 238 units on the site at 15495 Los Gatos Blvd. This included 48 affordable units, representing 20% of the total. However, town staff asserted the project exceeded the maximum density allowed by the General Plan, which caps at 20 dwelling units per acre. The initial configuration proposed a staggering 61.7 units per acre, leading to significant regulatory hurdles.
In response, the developers have submitted a new project, “Residence at Newtown,” which will consist of 80 three-story townhomes spread across 3.86 acres. The redesign features a mix of 33 three-bedroom units and 47 four-bedroom units, with each building reaching a maximum height of 40 feet.
Developers promise to enhance the community with landscaped paseos, a dog run, barbecue areas, and outdoor gathering spaces, prioritizing both aesthetic and functional aspects of the neighborhood. They aim to draw inspiration from Craftsman and Farmhouse architectural styles, ensuring the project aligns with local housing and design objectives.
“This project redevelops an underutilized commercial property into a thoughtfully designed residential neighborhood that enhances the streetscape along Los Gatos Boulevard,” the developers stated in their project description, highlighting its alignment with both local and state housing policies.
The revised proposal will now undergo scrutiny from town planners before it is presented to the planning commission and town council for approval. The outcome of this review will be critical, as the developers look to move forward with a plan that significantly reduces the initial impact while still addressing community housing needs.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the planning process unfolds. The potential implications for local housing availability and community dynamics are considerable, making this a pivotal moment for Los Gatos residents.
