Sausalito officials are moving forward with plans to significantly redesign the main downtown parking lot, aiming to enhance the central waterfront area. On October 3, 2023, the City Council directed consultants to expand their scope beyond the existing 144-space Parking Lot 1, located near the ferry landing. The initiative seeks to create a more integrated and inviting waterfront for residents and visitors alike.
The council’s decision comes after public feedback highlighted a desire for a more comprehensive approach to the parking lot’s redesign. “Much of the comment and feedback we have heard is slow down — we can do better than just repaving the parking lot,” said Vice Mayor Melissa Blaustein. Her sentiments were echoed by Mayor Steven Woodside, who acknowledged that the initial plans may have been too limited. “We have some of the most valuable real estate in the bay and all we are doing is parking cars on it,” he stated.
The City Council reviewed three proposed redesign options for the parking lot, asking consultants to return in three months with detailed plans that integrate the lot’s makeover with potential enhancements to nearby roads and public spaces. “We’re at an inflection point,” remarked Councilmember Jill Hoffman, emphasizing the need for urgent action on the parking lot.
In July 2022, the council approved a budget of $2.5 million to upgrade the parking lot while maintaining its current number of spaces. The goal is to finalize design plans by spring 2024 and complete the renovations by spring 2025. Consultants are exploring various elements, including parking space layouts, sidewalks, traffic flow, landscaping, and the inclusion of electric vehicle charging stations.
During a public workshop held in late January, community members expressed their opinions on three design concepts. The first option, “improve as is,” proposes simple repaving and restriping of the lot. This plan, estimated at $1.7 million, includes replacing unhealthy Indian laurel fig trees with larger specimens.
The second proposal, dubbed “the paseo,” features a tree-lined walkway running through the parking lot, enhancing connectivity between the ferry terminal and Anchor Street. This redesign is projected to cost around $3.3 million and would slightly reduce the number of parking spaces to 153.
The third option, “the plaza,” aims to create a pedestrian-friendly area adjacent to the ferry landing, which could be closed to vehicle traffic during peak seasons. This plan would also accommodate 153 parking spaces and is estimated to cost $3.5 million.
Feedback from the January meeting indicated strong support for prioritizing pedestrian and bike-friendly spaces. Sara Khorshidifard, the city project manager, noted in a staff report that attendees expressed a desire for the parking lot to serve as a welcoming gateway into Sausalito.
Architect Jacques Ullman suggested a more conservative approach to the project, advocating for minimal initial investment to allow flexibility for future enhancements. “Parking lot 1 is the front door to Sausalito for many visitors arriving by ferry,” stated Caroline Revell of Sausalito Beautiful, reinforcing the need for improvements that enhance both functionality and aesthetics.
Architect Michelle Dumont drew comparisons to Venice, Italy, urging the council to rethink the role of the parking lot in the community. “Let’s pause for a moment because Venice doesn’t even allow cars,” she asserted.
During the discussion, Councilmember Ian Sobieski presented an alternative architectural plan that reconfigured Parking Lot 1 and surrounding streets, proposing an increase of 53 parking spaces. His vision aims to address not only current parking needs but also enhance overall traffic flow and accessibility. “I’m not in a rush to spend the money on something that doesn’t hit on all cylinders,” Sobieski commented, emphasizing the potential for a plan that maximizes benefits.
Councilmember Joan Cox expressed support for expanding the vision for the project, acknowledging the council’s constraints regarding immediate funding. The ongoing discussions reflect a community eager to balance practical needs with broader goals for urban development and environmental sustainability.
As Sausalito moves forward with its plans, the focus remains on creating a more vibrant and user-friendly downtown area that caters to both residents and the influx of visitors who arrive via ferry. The forthcoming plans will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future of this picturesque waterfront community.
