Position Statement on Redwood Life Project
How We're Different
The Redwood Shores Coalition supports the protections and intent of the existing Westport Specific Plan. We also recognize that the former bayfront dump site poses environmental hazards that need to be fixed, and that the applicant must meet current water quality and flood protection mandates. We offer a realistic solution: room for the developer to rebuild and grow, with firm limits that protect the community.
What We Propose: A Smarter Middle Ground - The Livable Plan
- Allow up to 2 million built square feet of development. That's double what's there today. The developer gets real room to grow and generate revenue. The neighborhood doesn't get overwhelmed.
- Keep parking at today's level — no more than 3,600 spaces. More parking means more traffic. Holding the line on parking holds the line on traffic.
- Finish construction within 5 years. That's in line with other projects this size. Our community shouldn't have to endure decades of construction.
The Sierra Club supports this approach as a sustainable and balanced alternative — it's a 4-way win!
Addressing the False Choice
The City of Redwood City is currently evaluating two options for the Westport site: preserve the existing Westport Specific Plan unchanged, or approve the applicant's proposed 5-fold mega expansion. That's not a real choice. With only these two options, City officials may conclude the mega plan is the only economically viable path forward.
What We're Asking
We are calling on the City to include this alternative development scenario in the Environmental Review study, alongside the existing Specific Plan and the applicant's proposal. Our alternative avoids significant impacts while meeting identified project objectives. Residents deserve to see a full range of options — and decision-makers deserve the opportunity to choose a path that works for everyone.
