About the Downtown Plan

The Downtown Plan is intended to provide guidance for the future growth and development of Downtown San Leandro. It is a conceptual urban design plan with guidelines to preserve and enhance the historic richness and diversity of the Downtown area.

In February 1998, the City Council approved the formation of a Downtown Plan Committee, represented by homeowner associations and business owners from the downtown and surrounding areas. They met for sixteen months with members of neighborhood organizations and the business community to develop the Downtown Plan & Urban Design Guidelines. With input from the public, homeowners, business owners, the Downtown Business Association and the Chamber of Commerce, the City Council adopted the Plan on February 5, 2001.

Highlights of the Downtown Plan and Guidelines

The Downtown Plan

• Presents design concepts which build on San Leandro's history and which would improve the physical experience in Downtown.
• Presents short- and long-term recommendations which build on design concepts, such as pedestrian improvements on Washington Avenue and West Juana, and creating additional retail space along the plaza.
• Highlights the highest priority recommendation to renovate the plaza and create a stronger connection between Downtown and the BART station.

The Urban Design Guidelines

• Addresses building elements within the Downtown, such as entry treatments, building materials, building colors and street furniture to create a unified look in the Downtown.

The Plan is an informative document which contains a revitalization and economic development strategy that will guide business development and public and private improvements in the downtown area.