7.2. Approval of plans and specifications for the demolition of the Old Fire Station Headquarters as part of the Grand Street Parking Lot Project; authorization to advertise for bids; and finding of CEQA exemption.
The item is for the demolition of the Old Fire Station Headquarters as part of the Grand Street Parking Lot Project. While understandable that the old building cannot necessarily be used for another use, it's disappointing that the only option that has come up on the City Council agenda is a surface parking lot. Compared to other cities of similar size, such as Costa Mesa, Yorba Linda or Brea, the City of Orange has a small civic center, and a lack of community space. The Old Fire Station property is a great opportunity to create another community space, whether it is a park similar to Pitcher Park, or community facility, to expand the City Hall space. Old Towne has plenty of parking lots, but lacks green space and free, public community spaces. A place for City employees and local business employees to have lunch outside, for the choruses to meet at before the Tree Lighting Ceremony, a space for community groups to meet at.
There is still space to include parking, but even with City employees using the parking lot, the existing parking lot is rarely full, even at peak hours. I'd like to see there be a discussion and community input of other options to use the property, before moving forward and spending money on yet another parking lot in Old Towne.
The item is for the demolition of the Old Fire Station Headquarters as part of the Grand Street Parking Lot Project. While understandable that the old building cannot necessarily be used for another use, it's disappointing that the only option that has come up on the City Council agenda is a surface parking lot. Compared to other cities of similar size, such as Costa Mesa, Yorba Linda or Brea, the City of Orange has a small civic center, and a lack of community space. The Old Fire Station property is a great opportunity to create another community space, whether it is a park similar to Pitcher Park, or community facility, to expand the City Hall space. Old Towne has plenty of parking lots, but lacks green space and free, public community spaces. A place for City employees and local business employees to have lunch outside, for the choruses to meet at before the Tree Lighting Ceremony, a space for community groups to meet at.
There is still space to include parking, but even with City employees using the parking lot, the existing parking lot is rarely full, even at peak hours. I'd like to see there be a discussion and community input of other options to use the property, before moving forward and spending money on yet another parking lot in Old Towne.
Thank you,
Ashley Brodkin