Future Fremont California

The Counter is coming to Fremont!!!!!

2011-11-18T08:49:00.000-08:00

The Counter a custom Built Burgers will open at The Block at Pacific Commons in Fremont. It expected to open in early 2013.

The Block at Pacific Commons
S-6 Pacific Commons Boulevard
Fremont CA 94536

Future movie theater at Pacific Commons in Fremont?

2011-02-22T15:24:00.000-08:00

Last year, Cinemark posted Pacific Commons in Fremont as their future theater on their website. This year, Cinemark took Pacific Commons in Fremont off their website. Once I found out, I quickly contact them by phone and email.

I email Cinemark and got a response. Cinemark staff told me that they are still looking at different sites in Fremont to open a movie theater. There's no final decision been made.

Is Cinemark doesn't like Pacific Commons location?

Here is what Cinemark will open a movie theater in California.

Napa, CA - 12 Screens
Oxnard, CA - 16 Screens
Sunnyvale, CA - 13 Screens

Update on Pacific Commons Part 2B

2010-10-14T11:47:00.000-07:00

What I want at Pacific Commons?

A's Stadium

Shopping mall or outdoor shopping mall like Staford Shopping Center and Irvine Spectrum

Clean Companies

Convention Center and hotel

High Tech Companies

University

Townhouse and condos if A's build a stadium in NUMMI

Asian shopping center or a mall
Manufacturing and Industry (if all those aren't viable)

What store and restaurant I want at Pacific Commons? American Eagle Outfitters, Hollisters, H&M, California Pizza Kitchen, The Cheesecake Factory, Urban Outfitters, Target, Macy's, 24 Hour Fitness, Dave & Buster's, Borders, Whole Food Market, and etc.

My recommendation: I urged the City Council and Planning Commission to reject this project or postpone until Spring of 2011. So we can better understand if the economy is improving, developer or the A's might be interested in building housing and retail development, or wait until the new General Plan been adopted by the City Council in 2011.

This project will:
1) Create Greenhouse Gas Emission by driving from Target to Cinemark and driving around to find a parking space
2) Does not provide enough parking space. What happened on the holiday?
3) Does not guarantee people will come here to watch a movie. Fremont residents will still go to Great Mall, AMC Movie Theaters, Newark movie theater, Regal Cinemas, Union Landing, and etc to watch a movie.

Cinemark:
Union Landing in Union City
Cinedome 7 in Newark
Great Mall in Milpitas
Century Movie Theater in Hayward

Regal Cinemas:
Haciena Crossings Stadium 21& IMAX in Dublin
Crow Canyon Stadium 6 in San Ramon
Jack London Stadium 9 in Oakland

AMC Movie Theaters:
Cupertino Square in Cupertino
Mercado in Santa Clara

Do we want Fremont to move forward or backward? Do we continue building more strip mall, power center, big box stores, and discount store in Fremont? Do you think bringing high-retail, upscale restaurants, and entertainment that never existed in Fremont is a good thing? Do we continue ignoring bringing the A's in Fremont and that there is aviable location in Fremont?

Ice Skating at Irvine Spectrum

* Remember* From Yelp about Irvine Spectrum Center:

"and when you get bored - there's always the ferris wheel." (in 53 reviews)

"It's a great outdoor mall, with a lot to see and do." (in 28 reviews)

"There is also a really nice movie theater here too." (in 29 reviews)

The Planning Commission meeting will begin at 7 pm on October 14 in the City Council Chambers, 3300 Capitol Avenue.

Update on Pacific Commons: Part 2A

2010-10-10T14:25:00.000-07:00

Do you think Planning Commission and City Council should approve Pacific Commons Planning Area 5?

Pacific Commons Planning Area 5
to consider a Planned District Major Amendment (P-2000-214) for Pacific Commons (“Planning Area 5”), a Development Agreement Amendment, a Finding for Concept Site Plan approval, Vesting Tentative Tract Map 8049, and a Preliminary Grading Plan, to allow development of a new 27-acre retail/entertainment district located south of Curie Street (behind Costco and Lowe’s) in the Industrial Planning Area. A Supplement to the Final Environmental Impact Report has been prepared and circulated for this project in accordance with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
Project Planner - Cliff Nguyen, (510) 494-4769, cnguyen@fremont.gov

Conceptual Site Plan for Pacific Commons Planning Area 5

The project includes a 140,000 square feet Target, 60,000 square feet Cinemark, and 121,000 square feet of retail. This include a drive-through eating establishment like McDonald's.

Possible retail and restaurants that I think might open there (not a fact):

McDonald's or Sonic
AT&T or Sprint
Lane Bryant or women clothing stores
Bank
Fitness
Home furnishing and appliances
Furniture
Salon or barber shop
Shoes like Payless Shoe Source
General merchandise
Spa
Dental Office
Dry Cleaners

City Staff wants those retail in Fremont:

Fuddruckers or Eddie Papa's American Hangout
Mimis Caf e or Macaroni Grill
Sports Basement
Video Only
Nestle Toll House Cafe
and etc.

Do we need those retail and restaurants at Pacific Commons in Fremont or do we need to build a better shopping center or a shopping mall?

From Yelp about Pacific Commons:

Eric W.
Hayward, CA

3/5 stars
This place could have been soooo much better. When it broke ground a few years back, I was elated, thinking they would construct something like the Irvine Spectrum, an enclosed, outdoor, mega-entertainment center complete with bars, movie theaters, and high class restaurants.

Imagine my disappointment when I found out all we got was cheapie, big box retailers such as Old Navy, DSW, Circuit City, and worst of all, Costco! To it all off, the stores are more spread out than Tera Patrick! It's not pedestrian friendly at all. This is suburban sprawl at its worst!

Hopefully that new A's stadium will bring forth some better development around here. For the time being, the only saving grace is that it at least looks like So-Cal with all the palm trees.

Mister J.

Milpitas, CA

2/3 stars
Other than Costco they should just level this area and make a large park . The retailers here are so boring and uninteresting. Some of the retailers look out of place here. I really don't see anyone going into the stores or restaurants. Maybe just a few from the workers from Costco and Lowe's. The Kohls department store is must be the worst one in the company. DSW has crappy shoes,Circuit City was blown away.Party America,JoAnn,Staples...I doubt I will ever step foot in.

A little further away is a furniture store, bookstore, and other weird places. If not for Costco someone could blow this place up and no one would notice.

Pacific Commons Shopping Center on Yelp
4/5 stars 17 reviews

Irvine Spectrum Center or on Yelp:
4/ 5 stars 196 reviews

From Yelp about Irvine Spectrum Center:

"and when you get bored - there's always the ferris wheel." (in 53 reviews)

"It's a great outdoor mall, with a lot to see and do." (in 28 reviews)

"There is also a really nice movie theater here too." (in 29 reviews)

The Planning Commission meeting will begin at 7 pm on October 14 in the City Council Chambers, 3300 Capitol Avenue.

Coming soon Update on Pacific Commons: Part 2B

Update on Pacific Commons

2010-10-05T15:44:00.000-07:00

New for 2010
Five Guys Burgers & Fries- Now Open
Sports Clips- Now Open
Market Broiler- Now Open
Any Mountain- Open November 2010

New for Spring 2011
Nordstrom Rack
(formerly Circuit City)

New for Spring 2012
Cinemark-Pacific Commons, Fremont, CA – 16 Screens
Target-Mall owners confirmed the new theater but would not confirm Target’s arrival at Pacific Commons.

Unknown Opening
Fremont Healthy Spa
Asian Pantry of Fine Foods
Spa Dhara

Unknown tenants

The good news for Catellus and Pacific Commons keeps coming, according to Whiskeman. An announcement is expected soon on the identity of a national retailer moving into a vacant 30,000-square-foot space once occupied by Linens ‘N Things. Once that tenant is in place, he said the existing 860,000-square-foot center will be 98 percent leased.

Pacific Commons shopping center capitalizes on location for anchor tenants and expansion

Next up election endorsement and opinion on Pacific Commons and NUMMI/Warm Springs BART Station

Mayor Bob Wasserman Q&A: Future of Fremont and the A's

2010-01-31T19:46:00.000-08:00

Brian Chang: Why is A's stadium important to Fremont?
Bob Wasserman: Bringing the A's to Fremont creates a destination point that will make Fremont a major City. Economically it will bring 2 million people a year which means many good businesses will want to locate here.

Brian Chang: Why did you think it's a good location?
Bob Wasserman: has 2 major freeways and a BART station which means easy access. In a study of the bay area 10+/- years ago it was identified as one of three key areas for future economic growth.

Brian Chang: What will happen to the NUMMI site in 5-10 years or more?
Bob Wasserman:The stadium would be a catalyst to bring major commercial, residential and perhaps industrial growth. Without the stadium there will still be major development but it will take 20-30 years.

Brian Chang:Who will pay for the ballpark, buy the land, and infrastructure?
Bob Wasserman: It is hoped the County will buy and retain the stadium land. Infrastructure would be done by the City and Developers. The City would have to do infrastructure work even without the stadium. The A's would pay for all stadium costs.

Brian Chang: What it's the difference between general fund and redevelopment fund? How does the city gets that money?
Bob Wasserman: The general fund comes mostly from property and sales tax and a few smaller sources. Redevelopment funds come from tax increment which is from property tax in the fund area

Brian Chang: How does the school get money?
Bob Wasserman: Schools are funded by the State only. We have nothing to do with school funding.

Brian Chang: In past 30 years, does the City of Fremont always have a financial problem?
Bob Wasserman: Has not had serious problems but has never had enough to provide a optimal level of service.

Brian Chang: People are getting a hard time to get their permit. Why isn't Fremont a business friendly?
Bob Wasserman: We try to improve all the time.

For more information: http://fremont.gov/DocumentCenterii.aspx?FID=422
http://astofremont.org/

I urged you to write a letter to Major League Baseball (MLB) that we want the A's in Fremont. Send your letters to support@astofremont.org. It will be an economic development that will bring thousands of new jobs, millions in revenue, and more retail and restaurants to Fremont.

Lisa Quan Q&A: Fremont Planning Commission (1/12/2009)

2009-01-10T16:33:00.000-08:00

Brian Chang: Why did you move to Fremont?
Lisa Quan: I was born and raised in the Bay Area. I moved to Fremont because I believe that this city has a lot of potential for growth and is very hospitable to family life at the same time.

Brian Chang: Should A's move to Pacific Commons or Warm Springs BART Station? Why?
Lisa Quan: I would like to make our very best efforts to bring the A's to Fremont and turn this city into a major destination point. Therefore, while I prefer to see the project in the Pacific Commons area because it is more remote from single-family residential units, I am not foreclosed to the Warm Srpings option by any means. However, in the event that is the Pacific Commons area is not feasible, we should look carefully at the Warm Springs area and make creative efforts to make that choice happen.

Brian Chang: How are you going to address traffic, school, parking, and crime at the A's Ballpark Village?
Lisa Quan: I believe that these factors can all be handled successfully through the use of careful evaluation and creative planning.

Brian Chang: Do you think that the A's will move to Fremont? Why? How about San Jose?
Lisa Quan: I am very optimistic about the A's moving to Fremont because I have seen many presentations given by Lew Wolff and his team and believe that Fremont fits the A's criteria. I know that a move to San Jose has been discussed as an alternative but I do not think that San Jose is a good fit for the A's.

Brian Chang: What do you want to see Fremont in the future?
Lisa Quan: I would like to see more venues that would attract people from all age groups thereby increasing tax revenues for the city. I especially would certainly like to see a substantial boost to high-end retail and restaurants.

Brian Chang: How are you going to solve Global Warming?
Lisa Quan: Everyone is confronted with the problem of global warming. Therefore, each of us will have to make changes in our lives such as looking to more mass transportation, to alternative fuel sources and monitoring our carbon footprints.

Brian Chang: Do you think Fremont is well designed? Why?
Lisa Quan: While projects such as the Pacific Commons are successfully designed, Fremont certainly has room for more improvement.

Brian Chang: Do you think Fremont needs more recreation like Sport Center and Performance Art Center?
Lisa Quan: Since many people travel to other cities for recreation, I think that a sports center will keep residents in town and attract others as well. In general, Fremont needs more places where people can shop, watch sports games, watch movies, and live performances, dine and play.

Brian Chang: What do you think of the Creekside Landing shopping center? What types of retail do you want to see inside the shopping center? Should they open big box stores?
Lisa Quan: I would like to see more movie theaters, clothing stores, restaurants and other non big-box retail in that area.

Brian Chang: Should Fremont retain bedroom community feel or a big city? Why?
Lisa Quan: Fremont now has over 200,000 residents and is the fourth largest city in California. As such, it simply is not practical to attempt to keep it a bedroom community. People need recreational places, shopping and dining within the city limists rather than just having a place to come home to after work. Now, most people drive to San Jose or Palo Alto in search of interesting restaurants and attractive retail stores. This impacts this city's tax revenues, the number of jobs within the city and fuel expenses for the residents.

If you wish to support Lisa Quan, please write or send an e-mail to Mayor Bob Wasserman at 3300 Capitol Avenue, Fremont, CA 94538 or bwasserman@ci.fremont.ca.us.

Fremont Planning Commission

2009-01-08T21:58:00.000-08:00

I urge you to support Lisa Quan's appointment to the Fremont Planning Commission. She is supportive of the A's move to Fremont. She hopes to see more places in Fremont where people can live, shop, dine and play. She is the new president of Citizens for Better Community, is an officer of the Asian Pacific Islander American Public Affairs Association (APAPA), Bay Area Chapter, sits on the board of Vision New America, a member of the Fremont Rotary and a board member of the Exchange Club of San Jose. Lisa is dedicated to the care of Fremont.

If you wish to support Lisa, please write or send an e-mail to Mayor Bob Wasserman at 3300 Capitol Avenue, Fremont, CA 94538 or bwasserman@ci.fremont.ca.us.

2009 update

2009-01-01T13:25:00.000-08:00

Capitol Avenue Downtown Project
TMG Partners will present their Capitol Avenue plans/alternatives early next year, likely in April.

Creekside Landing Retail
The Planning Commission is tentatively scheduled to consider the project on Jan. 8.

To consider a Conditional Use Permit, Vesting Tentative Tract Map 7994 with a minor modification, and Preliminary Grading Plan for development of a 487,000 square regional shopping center on 59 acres of a 147 acre site located at the southern terminus of Fremont Boulevard, north of the Dixion Landing interchange and west of Interstate 880 in the Industrial Planning Area. An Environmental Impact Report (EIR) has been prepared and circulated for this project pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act.

Fremont Times Square
Under Construction

Oakland A's Ballpark Village
1) Now through Late Spring 2009: City and consultant team conduct preliminary environmental review, prepare Draft EIR (Environmental Impact Report)
2) Late Spring 2009: City mails public Notice of Availability of Draft EIR; begin 45 day circulation period for public and agency review and comment. Draft EIR available at City Hall, branch libraries, and online at http://www.fremont.gov/Community/BallparkVillage/default.htm
3) Summer 2009: City and consultant team prepares Responses to Comments, addressing comments received on the Draft EIR
4) Fall 2009: Planning Commission EIR certification hearing

Fremont Bank Aqua Adventure Water Park
Sneek Peek May 16th
Open Weekends Starting Saturday May 23rd
Grand Opening on 24-26, 2009

Hastings Mixed-Use
Because of issues with the one commercial space not being visible from the street as well as the dispute over the color scheme staff recommended delaying approval until January 8, 2009.

The Globe
Unknown

Centerville Unified Site
The new project now includes about 35,000 square feet of rental retail space along Fremont Boulevard, with as many as 300 residential rental apartments and live-work units.

Blake Hunt Ventures and BRE Properties are expected to submit project details to the city by February.

Warm Springs BART Station
1) Subway construction to begin mid-2009
2) Line, Track, Station, and Systems final design and construction to begin early 2010
3) Commencement of revenue service June 2014

Summerhill Project
A new proposal for a big housing complex at State Street and Walnut Avenue will consist of two, four-story buildings with a total of 301 apartments, a park and a small commercial space fronting Beacon Avenue.

It’ll have a pool, fitness area, and parking spaces. The Planning Commission is tentatively scheduled to consider the project on Jan. 22.

We urge you to vote "YES" on Prop 1A for High-Speed Rail

2008-11-03T21:41:00.000-08:00

Gavin Newsom urges voter approval of Prop 1A

Sen. Dianne Feinstein urges Prop 1A voter approval

Speaker Pelosi urges Prop 1A voter approval

Please Vote "YES" on Prop 1A for High-Speed Rail

2008-11-02T12:51:00.000-08:00

Please Vote "YES" on Prop 1A for High-Speed Rail

California High-Speed Rail will:
1) allow Californians to travel from the Bay Area to Los Angeles in two and a half hours, without the hassle of the airport.
2) reduce traffic and reducing air pollution.
3) reduces our dependence on foreign oil and reducing the greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming.
4) high-speed train system create new jobs and boost our economy.
5) reducing auto accident fatalities and injuries and related health care costs..
6) reducing delays to air and auto travelers as freeways and airports are relieved of congestion. Congestion costs Californians $20 billion per year in wasted fuel and lost time.
7) generating more than $1 billion in annual revenue surplus.
8) cost $55 one way train ticket.

Prop 1A Endorsements

Newspapers
Los Angeles Times
San Francisco Chronicle
San Jose Mercury-News
Fresno Bee

Organizations
American Lung Association
Anaheim Chamber of Commerce
California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
California Labor Federation
California League of Conservation Voters
California Nurses Association
California State NAACP
California Transportation Commission
Consumer Federation of California
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
League of Women Voters of California
Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
Los Angeles County Federation of Labor
Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC)
Orange County Business Council
Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce
San Francisco Chamber of Commerce
San Francisco Labor Council
San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce
Sierra Club California
and more....

Learn more at:
http://www.californiahighspeedtrains.com
http://www.cahighspeedrail.ca.gov
http://www.calpirgstudents.org

Survey

2008-10-31T23:12:00.000-07:00

Click Here to take survey

Fremont update

2008-10-02T16:41:00.000-07:00

Globe still empty, but spinning forward, developer says

Fred Kim and developer John Wynn of Imperial Investment and Development are working on city permits for the next village, an ode to the Pacific Rim, but they don't have money to build it.

"We've had to revise our strategy in terms of funding," Kim said, noting that credit is tight these days. Their plan is to find foreign capital, he said.

They also are asking the city to let them make a major change to the development plan, putting a 200-room hotel in Europa Village, which was slated to have European-themed shops.

Saigon Village
Cyclo Cafe-The prospective owner of the Cyclo Café — a coffee shop that is fully furnished, but not yet open — backed out for family reasons, Fred Kim said. A few other prospective tenants also backed out this year for various reasons, he said.

Pho Appetit (Open October 9, 2008) (Free soda on 10/9/08-11/9/08)

Pho Appetit, a Vietnamese restaurant, is scheduled to open next month in Saigon Village. Six more establishments, including a food court, sushi bar and nightclub, dentist office and rice museum could be in by early 2009, Kim said.

With only an East West Bank and World Gourmet opened on the edge of Saigon Village, Pho Appetit owner John Nguyen is concerned about being the first merchant to open inside of it.

"It's going to be tough there; there's no foot traffic, Nguyen said.

He said he has been paying rent for nearly a year and was told that other shops would be open that still aren't operating.The restaurant will offer authentic Vietnamese food with modern service, he said.

Kim said he understood Nguyen's concerns, and said other shops were on the way. Among those that have either gotten city permits or are planning to get them are a food court, a Thai and Vietnamese restaurant, a dentist shop, a rice museum and Yogurtzinha — a tea, gelato and frozen yogurt shop that is will have a second location in Pleasanton.

Kim, who said he also is negotiating with a potential sports bar operator, is looking for city permission for a sushi bar and nightclub.

Orchid Restaurant
Taste of Asia/Vietnam - Food Court (Open Soon)
Rice Museum
Miss Saigon
Royal Thai
dentist shop

Yogurtzinha (Open December)
Second location: Downtown Pleasanton
600 Main Street, Suite F
Pleasanton, CA 94566

Publish Post

Fremont Times Square
Now under construction

Pacific Commons
Asian Pearl (Open September 4, 2008)

Coming soon Fremont Bank Aqua Adventure Water Park update.

Fremont needs to change. Part 1/2

2008-08-30T16:16:00.000-07:00

Rich Cities and Poor Cities
Many people are shopping and going to the Century Theater to watch movies. Fremont is poor, while other cities are rich. Why is that? Milpitas has great shops, restaurants, and high-tech companies. People like to shop, dine, and play over there. When people shops and go eat at a restaurants, more revenue go to the city. I went to the Great Mall and there were so many people shopping and dining. That makes Milpitas get more tax revenue. I mostly go to Milpitas Square to eat at restaurants because Milpitas Square has great restaurants and a big shopping center. I also went to San Jose, Union City, Newark, and Cupertino restaurants. Sometimes I go eat at Chinese restaurants in Fremont, but Fremont has less restaurants than other cities. A lot of people work at high-tech companies. Mostly people who work at Cisco or Google are mid-high income. High-tech companies earn alot of money, so more revenue go to the city.

Shopping , Dining, and Play
People love to shop, dine, and play. I really want a shopping mall in Fremont, where there is an outlet shopping center or luxury shopping center that people would love to shop at. The shopping center has to be new and have up-to-date architecture. This would also attract more people to Fremont. Why is Fremont building alot of shopping center if less people shop in Fremont? Because people love to shop at clothing stores. Such as American Eagle Outfitters, Banana Republic, Hollister, etc. Fremont just keeps building the same shopping center. Also they tried to bring us stores like furniture, home, and office supplies. Who will shop there? I only buy furniture, home, and office supplies every 1-5 years. But clothing stores, I will shop once per week or month. Bob Wasserman brings 90 restaurants to the Fremont area and a lot of people, including me love going to them. But we need to stop opening restaurants at old shopping center, so we can improve on other things rather that restaurants that don't get that much business. I will discuss more in the next paragraph. We need bowling alleys, sport teams, movie theaters, and ice skating rings in Fremont. Why? I will discuss in Part 2. We have this in Fremont already, but they too old and need to be updated and remodeled .

Rebuild shopping center + Why are restaurants closing?

We shouldn't keep opening restaurants at downtown Fremont, until we improve shopping centers. Fremont Plaza Courtyard used to have Uno, then it change to Pasta Q, then it's now Joey Basil's Pizza & Pasta. Next to Sweet Tomatoes, we used to have SFO Pizza and now we have Straw Hat Pizza. We shouldn't keep adding restaurants there. Because a lot of restaurants are opening and then closing a few years later. We should start improving that area and rebuild a better shopping center there. If we start improving the areas that need to be improved, then more people will shop and dine in Downtown Fremont. I'm can't wait for them to start construction at Capitol Avenue Downtown Project.

Fremont should change 30-50 years. How we want are city to look like.

Our city should change from Suburban to Urban, because of Global Warming. I will like the city to be more like Dubai. Also, I wish the government would spend more money on buying single family housing, so they can turn into mixed-use development. All I want for this community is to live, work, play, shop, and dine. Not everywhere in Fremont, but in one location. Instead of driving to shop, work, or even play, we can have more have shopping areas closer to our peoples homes. Example, I live in condo then I walk few block to work, then few block to go groceries store. But Suburban, people have to drive to get groceries then drive out of town to work. In the general plan, Fremont should design a street where light rail can go. This would help save gas money for people and will keep our environment cleaner. Fremont should try to ask MTC for funding a light rail service. Fremont should have it where people can walk or take transportation to work.

A's Ballpark Village.

I'm very supportive of the A's moving to Fremont. Last time my cousin went to Santana Row and she like watching a Jazz Concert. She loves Jazz music and she want a Jazz concert in Fremont. I said theres a concert at Lake Elizabeth. But she wants a jazz concert near the shopping center. So, I said A's Ballpark is going to be similar to Santana Row and there will be a concert there. Before she was against the A's moving to Fremont, but now she is supportive of the A's moving to Fremont. The A's Ballpark Village will have a park.

Ashely Furniture has no right to oppose the A's Development. Ashely Furniture opened a store after the A's announce they are moving to Fremont. Parking and Traffic is mostly the big concern in Fremont. Last week, I talked to a Lawyer about the A's Ballpark Village. The lawyer said that they need at least 20,000 parking space. It must be a multistory garage. A's proposed plan is 11,000 parking space. If the bus can hold 4,000 people then they need at least 5,000 parking space. If Fremont, A's, and MTC work together, then the A's Ballpark can happened. Most Developers don't like spending money on parking because most parking won't get charge. This causes the developers to not get money on parking, but if Fremont and MTC give the A's money to pay for parking, then it will happened

Next, I will discuss part 2, and who I will endorse the city council and mayor, and why?
Part 2, I will discuss recreation, school, and Newark and Fremont.

Fremont Update: August

2008-08-18T18:58:00.000-07:00

The Globe

Saigon Village
Cyclo Cafe (Open Soon)
Pho Appetit (Open 2-3 weeks)
Orchid Restaurant
Taste of Asia/Vietnam - Food Court (Open September-October)
Rice Museum
Miss Saigon
Royal Thai

Fremont Times Square
Navlet's Garden Centers (Demolish August-September) The ground-breaking is scheduled for Sept. 9.

Pacific Commons
Asian Pearl (Open Mid-Late August)

Suburbs may make you fatter

2008-07-30T13:40:00.000-07:00

New research suggests that it might for those who reside in neighborhoods designed more for cars than foot traffic.

People in the study who lived in the most walkable neighborhoods weighed an average of 8 pounds less than people who lived in the least walkable areas.

Neighborhoods built before 1950 tended to have sidewalks and other characteristics that made them more accessible to pedestrians, including being more densely populated and having restaurants and other businesses nearby, lead researcher Ken R. Smith, PhD, tells WebMD.

In general, newer neighborhoods offered fewer opportunities for walking.

The study appears in the September issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.

“We aren’t saying the move from older to newer neighborhoods is the cause of the obesity epidemic, but it may be a factor,” Smith says.

Walk Less, Weigh More

In an effort to test the theory, Smith and colleagues calculated the body mass index (BMI) of 453,927 residents of Salt Lake County, Utah, using height and weight data from their driver’s license applications. Adults between the ages of 25 and 64 were included in the analysis.

The researchers also reviewed census data that included information about the neighborhoods where the residents lived.

In general, the research suggested that the more walkable a neighborhood was, the less likely its residents were to become overweight or obese.

Based upon the analysis, a man of average height and weight who lived in the most walkable neighborhood in Salt Lake County would be expected to weigh an average of 10 pounds less than a man living in the least walkable neighborhood. For women, the difference would be 6 pounds.

Smith says the growing emphasis on designing pedestrian-friendly places for people to live, work, and play could have a large, positive impact on health in the future.

He cites a recent report from the Brookings Institution predicting that by the year 2030 half the buildings in the United States will have been built since 2000.

“That represents a huge opportunity to think about how we are building our communities and to make them better places, both from a health and an environmental standpoint,” he says.

Walkability a Goal

This is the goal of the CDC’s ‘Healthy Places’ initiative, says Andrew Dannenberg, MD, MPH, of the CDC’s National Center for Environmental Health.

“Our mission is to get health on the table when building decisions are being made,” he says. “This has not been done much in the past, but awareness is growing.”

The recent stratospheric rise in gas prices and concerns about climate change have helped focus attention on the subject, but it is still too soon to know if the attention will lead to change, Dannenberg says.

The CDC’s ‘Healthy Places’ web site makes it clear that the challenge is daunting, as it calls for substantive changes with regard to future growth.

“Today, typical suburban homes sit in cul-de-sac subdivisions that empty out onto high volume roads,” it reads. “Zoning laws encourage the separation of residential areas from schools and shopping malls by long and often dangerous travel distances. Elementary school bicycle racks stand empty as parents fear for their children’s safety on narrow or traffic-laden roads. (And) pedestrians take risks as they cross dangerous intersections in communities where safe crosswalks are all but nonexistent,” the CDC statement reads.

Fremont fall election

2008-07-13T11:42:00.000-07:00

Fremont's elections are shaping up as a free-for-all, with establishment candidates competing against each other and against opponents from ends of the political spectrum that often aren't represented.

In Fremont, the mayor's race is a veritable battle of the titans with Mayor Bob Wasserman squaring off against former Mayor Gus Morrison and Councilmember Steve Cho.

Expected to be at the center of the debate is the Oakland A's ballpark village proposal, which Cho and Wasserman support and Morrison opposes. The A's are acting like a campaign already is under way. The club has sent residents two glossy mailers this year touting the team's potential contribution to Fremont.

As for the council, incumbent Bob Wieckowski has said he wants to seek another term, and he will face at least two challengers for either his seat or Cho's seat.

In Fremont, however, Cho is being termed out of his council seat this year. Planning Commissioner Suzanne Chan would be considered a favorite for the seat, but she said "I am doing my homework and assessing the pros and cons of running for public office. This is not an easy decision, but I am getting closer to a decision."

Another planning commissioner, Dirk Lorenz, already has declared his candidacy. Lorenz, a pro-business Republican who owns Fremont Flowers.

Also in the race is Sierra Club member Vinnie Bacon. Bacon, a former transportation planner who now works in technology, has criticized city development policies and promised not to take contributions from developers.

New Retail Center in Fremont, Ca

2008-06-26T23:04:00.000-07:00

New Retail Center
Osgood Retail Center-Auto Mall Parkway, Fremont, California
3350 Mowry Avenue
Old Mission Courtyard

Stevenson Row
Charles Schwab
Fuzio Universal Pasta

Fremont Update: Part 1

2008-06-22T21:58:00.000-07:00

Pacific Commons

Yogurt Swirl (Now Opened)
Asian Pearl (Mid July or Late July)
Chez Nous Bakery (June or July)
Dickey's Barbeque Pit ( Open July 7, 2008) Please note the date change

The Globe

Saigon Village
Cyclo Cafe (Open June or July)
Pho Appetit (Open 2-3 weeks)
Orchid Restaurant
Taste of Asia/Vietnam - Food Court (Open August)
Rice Museum
Miss Saigon
Royal Thai
1 New Tenant (Unknown)

Fremont Times Square
Navlet's Garden Centers (Demolish July)

Coming Soon

Straw Hat Grill ( formerly Pizzeria SFO Bar & Grill, next to Sweet Tomatoes)

Fremont Bank Aqua Adventure Water Park: June 2008 Construction

2008-06-19T00:29:00.001-07:00

Photobucket Album

Fundraiser for Bob Wasserman at Japra Mahal

2008-06-10T20:13:00.000-07:00

India Post News Service

The current Mayor of Fremont, Bob Wasserman runs against former Fremont mayor Gus Morrison and Councilman Steve Cho.

Under Wasserman's leadership, the city, the fourth largest in the Bay area, is now a hub for arts to sports to fine dining to high tech companies.

Many in Fremont are keen to see Wasserman serve again as Mayor and on Sunday, June 8, in a bid to help the re-election of Wasserman as Mayor, Dr Romesh Japra hosted a fundraising dinner at his residence, Japra Mahal. Also present were Vice Mayor Bill Harrison and Council Member Bob Wieckowski, and Council Member, Anu Natarajan, the first Indian to be elected to the City Council.

The Vice-Mayor and council members spoke highly of Wasserman's leadership skills, political acumen, and his dedication to serving the city of Fremont. 'Please come back Mayor', smiled Anu Natarajan. Bob Wasserman remarked it would be an honor to serve Fremont again as Mayor. He spoke glowingly of his team, saying that interaction with his Council members has always been fruitful if there has been criticism; it's been healthy, constructive criticism.

He said Fremont is slowly but surely flourishing, becoming more business friendly, and the home of several high tech companies. Currently, the city of Fremont is working closely with the A's, and the A's now have completed the land transaction and control 226-acres of land in the City of Fremont where the new Cisco Field ballpark and the urban village will be built. In addition, the A's will continue to work with the City staff on the steps necessary to commence the public application process.

10 Fastest-Growing Real Estate Markets

2008-06-09T19:32:00.000-07:00

10 Fastest-Growing Real Estate Markets

The housing implosion is nowhere near over. In 75 of the 100 top U.S. cities, prices are expected to fall in the next 12 months according to Fiserv Lending Solutions.

The S&P Case/Shiller Home Price Index, which tracks 20 of the largest housing markets, showed prices plummeting by 12.7% in the 12 months ending February. That's the biggest fall since the index began tracking prices in 2000.

Meanwhile, foreclosure filings more than doubled in the first three months of 2008, spiking 112%. So far this year 156,463 families have lost their homes to repossessions. Many markets won't hit bottom till late 2009 or even 2010.

Pity the residents of Stockton, Calif., whose homes are likely to lose more than half of their 2006 value. But if you happen to live in Texas -- or any of the other cities below -- congratulations: The housing tornado passed you by.

1. McAllen, Texas

12-month forecast: 4%
Median home price: $109,000
One year price change: 2.1%
Five year price change: 23.3%
Change in foreclosure rate: 23%

2. Rochester, N.Y.

12-month forecast: 2.7%
Median home price: $121,000
One year price change: 3.4%
Five year price change: 20.1%
Change in foreclosure rate: 5%

3. Birmingham, Alabama

12-month forecast: 2.7%
Median home price: $156,000
One year price change: 2.9%
Five year price change: 29.4%
Change in foreclosure rate: 20%

4. Syracuse, N.Y.

12-month forecast: 2.6%
Median home price: $126,000
One year price change: 0.8%
Five year price change: 29.5%
Change in foreclosure rate: 27%

5. Buffalo/Niagara Falls, N.Y.

12-month forecast: 2.4%
Median home price: $105,000
One year price change: 1.6%
Five year price change: 24.5%
Change in foreclosure rate: 14%

6. New Orleans, La.

12-month forecast: 2.2%
Median home price: $158,000
One year price change: 1%
Five year price change: 43.7%
Change in foreclosure rate: 49%

7. Scranton, P.A.

12-month forecast: 2.2%
Median home price: $128,000
One year price change: 7.2%
Five year price change: 41.1%
Change in foreclosure rate: 8%

8. Grand Rapids, Mich.

12-month forecast: 1.9%
Median home price: $124,000
One year price change: -3%
Five year price change: 8.3%
Change in foreclosure rate: 37%

9. Baton Rouge, La.

12-month forecast: 1.9%
Median home price: $170,000
One year price change: 5.7%
Five year price change: 38.3%
Change in foreclosure rate: 14%

10. El Paso, Texas

12-month forecast: 1.8%
Median home price: $134,000
One year price change: 6.9%
Five year price change: 51.9%
Change in foreclosure rate: 32%

BART to buy land for Warm Springs rail extension

2008-06-02T22:36:00.000-07:00

Bart took a step acquiring seven acres of Fremont land for its rail extension from the Fremont station to a proposed new station in the Warm Springs district of the city.

The board acquire privately owned land at 39410 Civic Center Drive. BART has estimated the market value of the land at around $5.23 million.

______________________________________________________________________

The City of Fremont hasn't heard back from MTC yet for the MTC station area planning grant on Warm Springs Bart Station. If the City of Fremont receives a grant, the planning process will include the City Council, key stakeholders, and local property owners in a process to help define compatible land uses.

More high-tech companies in Fremont

2008-06-02T22:27:00.000-07:00

George Avalos of the Contra Costa Times writes that more tech companies will expand in Fremont.

Two high-tech companies and a food and water purifying firm have all signed deals to expand in Fremont or move their operations there. The expansions mean more jobs for Fremont.

"We are well positioned to provide a home for growing computer technology, clean technology and life sciences companies," said Lori Taylor, the city of Fremont economic development manager.

The new deals in Fremont include:

Super Micro Computer Inc. The San Jose-based maker of high-end mother boards and servers rented 246,000 square feet of production and warehouse space. The deal was handled by commercial realty brokers from CB Richard Ellis and Colliers International.

Asus Computer International, which was already in Fremont, leased 153,000 square feet. The maker of computer, consumer electronics and communications products said the new building represents a significant expansion of its operations.

PurFresh Inc. has moved its operations and headquarters from Livermore. The maker of technology to purify food and water rented 30,000 square feet in its new home.

"We needed room to grow," David Cope, president and chief executive officer, said of the PurFresh relocation. "We found that real estate is becoming less expensive in Fremont compared with the Livermore area.''

PurFresh moved about 52 workers to Fremont as part of the move, Cope said. The company moved into a building that allows for plenty of expansion, if that's needed.

"We could probably double our head count," Cope said. "We have a bunch of open space in the building."

Fremont may have an advantage in rental costs over areas besides the Tri-Valley, said Joe Elliott, a Colliers broker.

"Compared to the rest of Silicon Valley, Fremont has more affordable space," Elliott said.

Room for expansion also was a factor for Super Micro, which has been growing rapidly in recent years near its San Jose headquarters, said Michael Kalodrich, a spokesman for the high-tech company.

About 50 people are working at Super Micro's new Fremont complex. But that number should grow.

"It's a huge facility," Kalodrich said. "So that head count could multiply several times over the next year or two."

Asus Computer needed more room as well, but it had to confront an extra complication from the potential construction of a baseball stadium and other projects in Fremont. Asus is currently located near the site of the proposed Oakland Athletics ballpark.

"With the stadium, a lot of things are going to be built," said Cher Chronis, director of marketing communications with Asus. "I understand lease rates have increased exponentially in that area."

Asus was unable to re-negotiate its lease with the company's current landlord.

Plus, the company's business has grown strongly in recent years, said Debby Lee, an Asus spokeswoman.

More expansions could head Fremont's way.

"We are getting a lot of inquiries from a number of companies," the city's Taylor said.

Fremont ranks 38

2008-05-30T21:18:00.000-07:00

The men’s magazine Best Life listed the top 100 cities in the U.S. to raise children, and Fremont ranks 38.

Higher ranking cities include Los Angeles, New York, Las Vegas, San Diego, San Jose area, Sacramento, Plano Tex., and of course Reno, which was ranked 31 under the magazine’s fool-proof methodology.

Fremont did rank higher than Hayward (93), San Francisco, Worcester, Mass., Seattle, Antioch, and (40).

For more on the Best Life rankings, click here.

1 Honolulu, Hawaii Schools spend almost $9,000 per pupil, unemployment ranks less than half the national average, and you can play on the island of O'ahu's 125 beaches
12 Los Angeles, California
23 New York, New York
31 Reno, Nevada
32 Las Vegas, Nevada
38 Fremont, California
40 Berkeley, California
67 San Francisco, California
73 Richmond, California
84 Oakland, California
87 Washington, D.C.
100 Lexington, Kentucky

2008-05-11T15:40:00.000-07:00

The Globe

China Village

Supermarket, Gong De Lin Xiao Nan Guo, Tea Store, and restaurant.
Start Construction 1-2 weeks. Complete February, 2009.

Pacifica Village

Cellphone, Pizza, and World Gourmet Buffet.
Start Construction 1-2 weeks. Complete December, 2008.

JK Town

Oceana Seafood Market Restaurant include supermarket restaurant, and among other businesses. Start Construction 1-2 weeks. Complete February, 2009.

Saigon Village
Cyclo Cafe (Should opened anytime)
Pho Appetit (Should opened anytime)
Taste of Vietnam ( Start construction April and opened August)

Fremont Times Square
Here’s what the new Asian-themed shopping center in Warm Springs (formerly Navlet’s Garden Center) will look like:

The Navlet’s Garden Center in Fremont’s Warm Springs District is closing at the end of June. The nursery and an adjacent business that sells rocks for landscaping are scheduled to vacate the site by June 15. The store, which has been near the corner of Mission and Warm Springs Boulevard for 35 years, is being forced out so the property owners can build an Asian-themed grocery store.Navlet’s, which has been in business since 1885 and has four other East Bay locations, is trying to find a new home in Fremont.

Barry Swenson Builder, which is developing Union City’s high rise residential towers near its BART station, has bought the land and is building a 94,000-square-foot Asian-themed shopping center. The anchor tenant will be a Marina Food supermarket, which is known for having a good fish department. The developer is also planning for a spa, medical offices and an acupuncturist, among other businesses. Groundbreaking is scheduled for July, and the supermarket should open in the second half of 2009.

Pacfic Commons
Asian Pearl (Opened June)
Yoswirl (Unknown opening date)
Chez Nous Bakery (Unknown opening date)
Dickey's Barbeque (Unknown opening Date)
Prolific Oven (Unknown opening date)

Smart & Final
Drug Emporium is scheduled to be a new Smart & Final location.

Summerhill Homes project on State Street Walnut Avenue
Summerhill is redesigning their project with their sister organization, The Urban Group, to turn it into rental housing. When they are done it may have to come back to the Planning Commission or Council for any needed amendments.

Fremont officials travel to China

2008-05-01T19:45:00.000-07:00

With 2 million square feet of vacant industrial and office space, Fremont is crossing the Pacific in search of new tenants. The city sent a nine-member trade delegation to China on Friday in hopes of persuading Chinese businesses to consider Fremont when opening a U.S. office. The delegation has scheduled several meetings with Chinese business and government officials in and around Shanghai during the next week.

"This is our chance to see what our opportunities are and see how Fremont can benefit from the expansion of Chinese companies," Economic Development coordinator Angela Tsui said.

The delegation, which will be in China through May 3, includes representatives from several Fremont businesses with ties to China: Sheena Chang of Vantec, Nancy Lee of Pan Pacific Bank and Theresa Cox of Lam Research, which has an office in Shanghai. Representing the city will be Tsui, Deputy City Manager Melissa Stevenson Dile and Councilmember Bob Wieckowski.

Ohlone College board President Garrett Yee also is with them to support Ohlone's effort to open an exchange program with a technical school in the Chinese city of Suzhou, which is near Shanghai.

Most delegation members will pay their own way, but Tsui, Stevenson Dile and Wieckowski will travel at taxpayer expense with the total cost estimated at $20,000.

Initially, Mayor Bob Wasserman and Steve Cho were supposed to represent the council, but Wasserman had to cancel, which led Cho to question the trip's merit.

"Based on what I know of the mentality of (Chinese) government officials, if you don't have the appropriate title, then the value of the trip is diminished," he said.

Wasserman said that a personal matter had forced him to cancel, and Chinese officials said his absence wouldn't be a problem. "It's not going to diminish the trip in anybody but Cho's mind," he said.

Cho, who is running against Wasserman for mayor in November, also noted that the trip comes during May 1, which is a major Chinese holiday.

"If we're going over there to conduct official business and the country is shut down, what business are we conducting?" Cho asked.

May Day traditionally has been a three-day holiday in China, but this year the government has decreed that it will last only one day.

Wieckowski, who has never visited mainland China, said Fremont needs to demonstrate to the Chinese the importance it places on establishing business ties.

"What's the thing our dads told us?" he said. "Nothing ventured, nothing gained."

Do you want Shopping Mall in Fremont?

2008-05-01T18:47:00.000-07:00

We need more survey. We only have 7 people complete the survey. If you want or don't want something then complete my survey. Because, 5 people wants shopping mall. Please complete my survey.
1. Do you want Shopping Mall in Fremont?
Yes 74.4%
No 28.6%

Final Result will be posted on May 13th. This survey will be send to City. Thanks

Fremont Newswrap: 4/29/08

2008-04-29T19:52:00.000-07:00

Fremont may get its own Berkeley Bowl

A Fremont developer has pledged to bring the Berkeley Bowl supermarket to Fremont, or develop a copycat market himself.

Ray Tong of Pacific General Construction guaranteed a Berkeley Bowl-style market at last week's City Council meeting to anchor a retail and office complex he wants to develop on an

8.7-acre vacant lot at Auto Mall Parkway and Technology Court.

The Berkeley Bowl is an independent grocery store known for extensive and inexpensive produce and bulk food departments, and very long checkout lines.

Fremont has been trying to lure an independent and upscale grocer, but so far hasn't persuaded Whole Foods or a similar chain to come to town.

Tong said he isn't as interested in Whole Foods.

"I think that a Berkeley Bowl concept would work here better." he said. "I don't think in Fremont you have the deep pockets that you find in other communities."

Tong, whose company has built a Ranch 99 Market, said he has approached the Berkeley Bowl's owner about opening a store in Fremont or serving as a consultant for a market that Tong would develop and own.

"By hook or by crook, we are going to bring the (Berkeley Bowl) concept here," he told the council.

Acting against the recommendation of city planners, the council voiced unanimous approval for Tong's concept.

The planners had argued that the development would cause significant traffic impacts at Auto Mall Parkway and Osgood Road, convert needed ndustrial-zoned land to commercial uses, and most importantly, Planning Director Jeff Schwob said, draw customers from similar commercial centers in nearby neighborhoods.

"This could have a real drain-down effect," Schwob said.

Councilmember Anu Natarajan disagreed. She said that the site on Auto Mall between the two freeways was well-suited for residents stopping off for dinner or groceries on their way home.

Tong said the development likelywill have a supermarket, restaurants, shops and offices.

He must now present the city with a more detailed proposal and an updated traffic analysis before the council can approve the plan and change the zoning code to allow for the commercial development.

If all goes smoothly, Tong said he might be able to start construction by the end of next year.
___________________________________________________________________

Fremont picks firm to start downtown plan
City leaders have tapped a new developer to jump-start plans to build something resembling a downtown near the BART station.

TMG Partners, a San Francisco-based development firm, was named lead developer this week for the city's Capitol Avenue project, which stalled last year when a previous lead developer found himself at the center of a family squabble, city officials said.

Fremont officials want Capitol Avenue to be extended to Fremont Boulevard and integrated with adjacent properties to form the heart of a high-density urban neighborhood with high-end retail, residences and public amenities.

Two years ago, city leaders thought they had a plan to do just that.

Developer William Faidi, who had teamed with development firm Blake Hunt Ventures, presented a concept to the City Council that would have extended Capitol and integrated several parcels to make room for a public plaza and about 200,000 square feet of ground floor retail space below residential towers.

But Faidi, who owns an adjacent shopping center at Fremont Boulevard and Mowry Avenue, soon found himself in a legal fight with relatives over family assets, city officials said.

Faidi's legal troubles prevented him from following through on the project. That forced the city to turn to TMG, according to a city report presented to the City Council on Tuesday.

It could prove hard for TMG to propose anything quite so ambitious in the 180 days it has to present a conceptual design.

The firm controls about seven vacant acres owned by the city at Capitol Avenue directly west of State Street.

To extend Capitol farther west to Fremont Boulevard, TMG will need participation from Faidi, who owns the shopping center that houses Barnes & Noble, as well as three other nearby landholders, including Fremont Bank.

At this point, it's unclear how involved Faidi can be in the project, Fremont Economic Development Director Daren Fields said earlier this month. Mayor Bob Wasserman said he wouldn't be surprised if TMG proposed a mix of housing and retail on the city-owned site, and provided for Capitol to be extended to Fremont Boulevard in a later development phase.

"We always wanted to cut Capitol through and make Fremont Bank a cornerstone," said Wasserman, who also wants a cultural arts center to be part of the long-term plan.

As for the retail, Fields said, the city is looking to take "the next step up the retail ladder," with higher-end shops that want to have a street presence.

A's move to Fremont might be delayed

2008-04-22T23:09:00.000-07:00

The Oakland A's still plan to come to Fremont, but team officials no longer expect to arrive in 2011.

A's co-owner Keith Wolff said that opening day 2012 now is the team's target date, although that, too, could change.

"If everything goes perfectly, 2012," Wolff said at a community meeting Tuesday night when asked what year the team would arrive. "I think we need a little leeway."

After the meeting, Wolff said that the team could only arrive in 2011 if the city certified the team's environmental impact report by the end of this year - a target date both Wolff and city officials said almost surely would be missed.

"2012 was probably more realistic than (2011)," City Manager Fred Diaz said Wednesday. "It's a very complicated project, and because of its complexity, it's very slow."

The A's are proposing a 32,000-seat ballpark, along with up to 3,150 homes, an elementary school and a commercial center similar to San Jose's Santana Row on 226 acres west of Interstate 880 and south of Auto Mall Parkway.

Because the project is so massive, the team is continuing to fine-tune details with the city and other agencies.

"I think they're realizing that there's a lot of things that need to be addressed," Planning Director Jeff Schwob said.

Fremont and the A's still are discussing different plans for accessing parking lots and determining which entity will be responsible for paving a temporary parking lot west of Cushing Parkway, he said. The environmental report, which requires the team to respond to comments from public agencies and citizens, typically takes 14 to 18 months to complete.

The draft environmental impact report, which will include the city's much-anticipated traffic impact study, could be completed by the end of the year, Schwob said.

Given that schedule, it is unlikely that the report will be made public before the November mayoral election, in which former Mayor Gus Morrison, a critic of the A's plan, is running against two men supporting the team move to Fremont - incumbent Mayor Bob Wasserman and Councilman Steve Cho.

Wolff did not directly respond when asked if the team was concerned about Morrison entering the race. "We just want to present a project that makes sense for the city of Fremont."

Meanwhile, the team is continuing to try to strengthen local support.

Last week, it sent out mailers to Fremont residents that had a picture of co-owner Lew Wolff, Keith's father, on the front reading to a group of schoolchildren.

And at Tuesday's meeting, attended by about 45 people at St. Joseph's Parish, stadium backers distributed a different flier touting the development and its benefits for Fremont.

Fremont mayor says city needs revenue

2008-04-22T23:02:00.000-07:00

The city needs to boost revenue if it is to provide services that residents expect, Mayor Bob Wasserman said Monday in his fourth State of the City address.

Wasserman touted recent sales tax growth and new shopping centers as evidence of progress during a speech that focused mainly on city finances.

"Signs indicate that Fremont is heading is the right direction," he told a crowd of about 240 civic leaders and Fremont Chamber of Commerce members at the Fremont Marriott.

The mayor also announced that two of Fremont's biggest construction efforts could be completed earlier than expected.

The Washington Avenue/Paseo Padre Grade Separation project is nearly a year ahead of schedule and should be finished by early 2010, Wasserman said.

He gave 2014 as the estimated start for BART service to Warm Springs. BART has used 2013 as a tentative starting date, but city officials had been hesitant to give any date, fearing that the service could start much later.

He also touted a retail center planned for Dixon Landing Road and drew applause when he briefly mentioned that environmental studies were continuing on the Oakland A's ballpark village proposal.

As for the vacant 6-acre lot along Fremont Boulevard in the Centerville district, Wasserman acknowledged that it "has been a work in progress for many years."

A new development plan, including housing and shops, is in the works, he said.

Wasserman also noted several grants the city has received this year to find ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, provide better services to seniors and open a hazardous materials drop-off center, which is scheduled to open in July.

Click to view the State of the City Address.

Do you want Shopping Mall in Fremont?

2008-04-13T22:11:00.000-07:00

Please complete the survey about "Do you want Shopping Mall in Fremont ?"

Fremont Update: Part 1

2008-04-07T22:03:00.001-07:00

Pacific Commons
Yogurt Swirl (Open May or June)
Asian Pearl (Open May and Officially Open June)

The Globe

Saigon Village
Cyclo Cafe (open April or May)
Pho Appetit
Orchid Restaurant
Taste of Vietnam- Food Court (Open August)
Rice Museum
Miss Saigon
Royal Thai

Pacifica Village (Start Construction 2-3 months)
Pizza
World Gourmet Buffet
Cellphone

China Village
Mom's Supermarket

Europa Village
Hotel (8-9 floors)

What is Urban City?

2008-03-31T22:16:00.000-07:00

The increase of urban city, means that their are more shopping center, more business which attracts many people from other cities and it also helps the city as it get more taxes. As the Urban city develops it is usually very "together" crowed in which a person can just walk to the next store instead of driving 10 miles to get to store, which is use of fossil fuel and causes CO2 in the atmosphere.

Urban needs more Mixed-use development. Such as Office, Retail, and Housing or condo. Need public school near your house, without driving very far.

Most Urban cities had transportation. Such as subway, light rail, bus, and monorail. It's more easier than driving and wasting gas.

Example:
Oakland A's Ballpark Village
Capitol Avenue Downtown Fremont
Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)

Example Cities:
Boston
New York
San Jose
San Francisco
Oakland
Los Angeles

We want:
Urban
Better places to live, work, and play
Lifestyle with more walking, and less stress
Reduced traffic congestion and driving
Greatly reduced pollution and environmental destruction
Greatly reduced dependence on foreign oil
Reduce Global Warming

We don't want:
Suburban
Driving and spend more money on gas
Increase Global Warming
Stuck in traffic to go to work
Drive 10-20 miles to go shopping and Whole Food Market

Do Not Vote For Gus Morrison. We will stuck Suburban forever.

Applebee's Grand Opening

2008-03-30T11:44:00.000-07:00

Applebee's will be opened on March 31, 2008. It is located at Pacific Commons in Fremont.

43349 Boscell Rd
Fremont, CA 94538

Fremont Update

2008-03-25T18:31:00.000-07:00

Pick Up Stix is close at Pacific Commons in Fremont.

Water Park in Progress: Building, Lazy River, Lap Swimming/Recreation Pool, Tots Spray Pad, and Youth Pool is under construction. Water Slides has not been selected and it will be until this summer. General Manager will be selected next year and they will be a making website. There won't be any Parking Fees.

Capitol Avenue Downtown Fremont: The City is looking for a new development partner for the Capitol Avenue Project and hope to have someone on board within the next month or so. This Project is hoped to be completed in 3-5 years. At this time, it is not anticipated that sales tax will fund the Project.

Pacific Commons: Chef Nous Bakery is under construction and will be completed on Chinese New Year. Yogurt Swirl is under construction and will be completed around April or May. Asian Pearl is under construction. It will be completed in mid or late May and officially opened in June. Applebee's, Dickey's Barbecue pit, and The Prolific Oven is coming soon to Pacific Commons. Applebee's is under construction and the last phase of the Pacific Commons shopping center will completed by the end of 2008.

Centerville Unified site: Once again, it's back to the drawing board for developers of the Centerville Unified site, but it still works with Blake Hunt Ventures. City council was open to a mixed-use development, with some council members suggesting multiple-story structures. Councilwoman Bob Wieckowski suggested as many as five stories, Councilwoman Anu Natarajan agreed with Dinh that the project needed to be a catalyst for the district, Councilman Steve Cho said over the last eight years the city had reached this point in the planning stage several times, and it was frustrating that it keeps happening, Vice Mayor Bill Harrison said the area can be revitalized with mixed-use development, and suggested a project along the lines of Washington West, and Mayor Bob Wasserman favored the ideas of senior housing, and said he had no obligation to multi-story structures, just as long as the people wanted it. "Eight years or so ago we defined what we wanted on that site, and it never happened," he said. " According to city staffers, Blake Hunt Ventures and Field Paoli Architecture Inc. will return to the council at a future meeting with ideas gathered from the input received.

Parc Pacific GPA

2008-03-25T11:01:00.000-07:00

Planning Commission

When: March 27, 2008
Time: 7:00 pm
Where: City Council Chambers
3300 Capitol Avenue

PARC PACIFIC GPA - Technology Court - (PLN2006-00166) - to consider a General Plan Amendment to change the land use designation from Light Industrial to Neighborhood Commercial and certification of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for an 8.7-acre site in the Industrial Planning Area.

Project Planner - Kelly Diekmann, (510 0494-4540, kdiekmann@ci.fremont.ca.us

Recommended Action: Certify the EIR and deny the proposed GPA.

PC Report

Total: 144,580 square feet
Retail: 79,580 square feet
General Office: 40,000 square feet
Medical office uses: 25,000 square feet

Concern:
One resident stated that traffic conditions are too bad along Auto Mall Parkway and he does
not support approval of the project.

The second major comment was from CalTrans asking foradditional information on mitigation requirements for facilities within their jurisdiction. No new information or impacts that were not addressed by the Draft EIR were discussed by respondents.

RECOMMENDATION:
1. Hold public hearing.
2. Find the EIR is adequate and recommend the City Council certify the EIR.
3. Recommend that the City Council deny General Plan Land Use Amendment change from Light
Industrial to Neighborhood Commercial as represented on Exhibit “B” and retain the site’s
current Light Industrial designation.

ALTERNATIVE RECOMMENDATION:
4. Hold public hearing.
5. Find the EIR is adequate and recommend the City Council certify the EIR.
6. Planning Commission identifies applicable legal, technological, social, economic, or other
benefits of the project that outweigh the unavoidable adverse environmental impacts as the basis
(findings) for adopting a Statement of Overriding Consideration.
7. Recommend that the City Council approve General Plan Land Use Amendment change from
Light Industrial to Neighborhood Commercial as represented on Exhibit “B”.

Rich Cities but not Fremont and Mayor

2008-03-23T14:34:00.000-07:00

San Jose

Rich: 18th floor city hall, Santana Row, Eastridge Mall, Westfield Oakridge, and High-tech companies.

Poor: Spend too much money and poor

Milpitas

Rich: Nice city hall, High-Tech Companies and Great Mall

Hayward

Rich: Mall and nice city hall
____________________________________________________________________
Mayor

Gus Morrison: Anti-Development and Oppose A's
Bob Wasserman: Bring A's to Fremont, Bring Restaurants to Fremont, Support High Density, and make city to go Green
Steve Cho: Support A's, wants vacant office to be lease, Vote "NO" on Water Park, Wants A's to put on Ballot.

Gus Morrison did nothing about Fremont and how he improve Fremont. He have been working on Pacific Commons since August 27, 1996. Pacific Commons is not very successful. Theres no traffic and less people shop at Pacific Commons. Fremont is very poor and has finances trouble.

How did Downtown/Capitol Avenue redevelopment plan to be Funded? Sales Tax Revenue

How did city get Sales Tax Revenue? Oakland A's Ballpark Village and Bayside Marketplace. Mostly clothing stores will get Sales Tax Revenue.

Will Pacific Commons get successful and will people shop there? Yes, Oakland A's Ballpark Village will attract people to shop at Pacific Commons and Oakland A's Ballpark Village Retail.
Whoever live at the Ballpark Village don't have to drive other places to shop. People can just shop at Pacific Commons and Ballpark Village without driving. Hopefully they won't have to drive Bayside Marketplace and The Globe. Mayor Bob Wasserman said, " in the future we will have monorail from Bart to Bart and Ballpark Village to The Globe." " We meet with John Wynn and Lew Wolff about it before, but need to get Ballpark Village and The Globe to be built."

How we get Whole Food Market? Mostly Location Location Location. But some can be Oakland A's Ballpark Village and Ohlone College.

"Sales tax revenue is forcing the city to implement a selective hiring freeze and delay allocating $2 million toward the Downtown/Capitol Avenue redevelopment plan."

What if Gus Morrison is elected?: Your making wrong choice
Gus Morrison did not do anything about these thing. He is not very good mayor and doesn't know city that well. If he was elected, he will destroy Oakland A's Ballpark Village. How about future? I predict that in the future, we will have downtown in 50 years or we don't get downtown at all.

Remember that Oakland A's Ballpark Village will fund Downtown Fremont. Bob Wasserman is the one who brings A's to Fremont.

Update News: 3

2008-03-19T22:22:00.000-07:00

Costs for grade separation jump

Fremont City Council approved two cost increases for the massive Washington Grade Separation project Tuesday, citing unexpected delays over multiple years and under-estimates of construction and management costs.

Last April, council authorized staff to execute a relocation agreement for $287,008 with a 15 percent contingency, for a total not to exceed $330,059.

The contract was originally estimated at $4,201,764, and it was believed at the time that work on the project would begin within six months. It was also estimated that work would take 34 months to complete, for a total contract duration of 40 months. The city approved a $4.6-million increase for S & C Engineers Tuesday, making it an $8.8-million contract.

The contract was originally estimated at $4,201,764, and it was believed at the time that work on the project would begin within six months. It was also estimated that work would take 34 months to complete, for a total contract duration of 40 months. The city approved a $4.6-million increase for S & C Engineers Tuesday, making it an $8.8-million contract.

The overall construction cost estimate at the beginning of the major project was $33.5 million.

As a result, S & C's contract duration increased from a 40-month total to 73 months, and total construction costs doubled Ð to $66.7 million.
____________________________________________________________________

Mayor asks managers to explore charter city feasibility

Mayor Bob Wasserman asked the city manager and city attorney to probe the feasibility of becoming a charter city during Tuesday's Fremont City Council meeting.

The city last proposed becoming a charter city in 1997, a plan later rejected by voters.

"In the last few months it's come up again," Wasserman said Tuesday. "I'm curious to see now if there's anything different than there was 10 years ago."

A charter city can provide for any form of government. A charter city is also not bound by California state laws or election codes, meaning a charter city can hold elections when it sees fit and operate under its own rules and procedures.

In 1998, Fremont voters rejected Measure P, which would have allowed the city to oversee the operations of its administrative departments including compensation, tenure and retirement of school board members.

Councilman Steve Cho was supportive of Wasserman's request, as long as the city did not undertake a study to begin the charter process.

"We went out 10 or 11 years ago, spent a lot of time and money to look at the feasibility of being a charter city, and it didn't pass with the voters," Cho said. "I think we should take the charter from 10 years ago as a basis, and look at what's changed in the last 10 years."

Fremont City Manager Fred Diaz said he would present a feasibility report to the council in May.
____________________________________________________________________

Council mulls contribution for orchestra

Fremont City Council Tuesday debated granting $15,000 to the Fremont Symphony Orchestra, and was concerned that other groups may come forward asking for money the city contends it does not have.

Treadway wrote that fund-raising events, considered the primary sources for the symphony, have fallen short of meeting the budget for two years.

As a result, the board has taken out loans from local banks, borrowing up to the symphony's endowment of $45,000

This fundraiser will be aimed at paying back bank loans already taken out, and returning to fiscal solvency.

Treadway said that instead of a May 10 Pops Concert, the symphony will hold a "Save Our Symphony" fundraiser.

He noted in the letter that the $15,000 requested from the city would be a one-time grant, used to help the symphony meet current financial obligations and keep a minimum staff in place during a restructuring period.

Vice Mayor Bill Harrison suggested the city give the symphony the money in the form of a loan rather than a grant.

Councilman Bob Wieckowski said he did not believe additional groups would come forward if it were explained that this funding would be a one-time donation for a group that had been in Fremont for more than 40 years.

Last June, the council approved a one-time donation to the Fourth of July parade in the amount of $15,000.

At that time, Councilman Steve Cho argued that because the parade was once a city-run event, the city should be able to help out with funding.

Mayor Wasserman said he liked the idea of loaning the symphony the money. He added other event organizers or representatives could try to convince the council that their own events are special as well.

City Manager Diaz is expected to return to a future council meeting with funding options.

Ex-mayor announces candidacy

2008-03-15T18:45:00.000-07:00

Former five-term Mayor Gus Morrison shook up the mayoral race Wednesday, announcing that he once again will seek Fremont's top job.

Morrison's candidacy, which comes four years after term limits forced him from office, potentially turns November's election into a referendum on the Oakland A's proposed ballpark-village development.

Morrison has been the most vocal critic of the $1.8 billion plan that would bring a baseball stadium, retail shops and up to 3,100 new homes to 226 acres next to the Pacific Commons Shopping Center.

The two other announced candidates, current Mayor Bob Wasserman and Councilmember Steve Cho, both support the plan.

The A's proposal will be a major issue, Morrison said, but it won't be the sole focus of his campaign.

He said the city has become too focused on generating sales tax revenue at the expense of quality of life for residents, and not proactive enough in dealing with crime and continued population growth.

He also criticized the council's handling of a stalled redevelopment project in Centerville and Measure L, the failed 2006 utility tax measure that Morrison said had poisonedfuture tax-increase efforts when the city announced a surprise budget surplus one month after voters rejected the tax.

"I'm just not happy, so I'm going to raise the issues on things I'm not happy about, and see if it strikes a chord," Morrison said.

He backed Wasserman in 2004, and his candidacy complicates

what appeared to be a straightforward path to re-election for the mayor.

Wasserman already has secured endorsements from Fremont's political establishment and has raised more than $25,000 for the campaign.

Also, Wasserman, a centrist Democrat, could have expected strong support from liberal voters in a two-person race against Cho, the council's lone Republican.

Now, the mayor faces a challenge on the left from Morrison, who previously has depended on strong support from left-leaning Democrats and a challenge on the right from Cho, who also is expected to fare well among Chinese-Americans, Fremont's largest ethnic group.

Councilmember Bob Wieckowski, a long-standing Morrison supporter who also is up for re-election, said Morrison's entry into the race won't cause him to withdraw his endorsement of Wasserman. It will, however, keep him from actively campaigning for Wasserman, as he would have done had Cho been his only opponent.

"All I would be doing is hurting myself," he said of stumping hard for Wasserman.

Wasserman wouldn't say much about Morrison's candidacy, but said he was concerned that the A's development plans now will dominate the November election.

"I don't think we need that," he said. "Things have been going very well."

Morrison, 72, spent nearly a quarter-century on the council, including five terms as mayor. He was barred from seeking re-election in 2004 because of a city term-limits rule enacted in 1996 that prohibits lawmakers from serving more than eight consecutive years in the same seat.

California: An economic micro-climate +Predict Little Economic Growth In U.S For First Half Of 2008

2008-03-12T21:48:00.000-07:00

We've been hearing a lot about a possible recession, but a new report from UCLA says we can still avoid a recession, even though housing, jobs, and consumer spending are all off.

http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=news/business&id=6013
992

or Link
______________________________________________________________________
A panel of economists predicted Monday that there will be little U.S. economic growth in the first half of 2008. However, a pick up in growth was predicted for the second half of the year.

National Association for Business Economics also provided its first prediction for 2009. The organization projected that GDP will grow 2.9% over the course of the year.

For 2008, however, growth was predicted to be extremely slow, though a recession will likely be averted.

“U.S. economic growth is expected to slow to a crawl in the first half of 2008," said Ellen Hughes-Cromwick, NABE president and chief economist at Ford Motor Company.

She went on to say, "while a slight majority of our panel of forecasters expects the economy to avoid a recession in 2008, growth is expected to average just ¾% before accelerating in the second half in response to fiscal and monetary stimulus.”

Survey: Warm Springs Retail (multiple answers) + Wam Springs

2008-03-09T14:33:00.000-07:00

BART On-Call Community Relations Team answer my questions:

1) Is Warm Springs Bart Station are going to happened?
Yes, pending full funding for the Warm Springs project the
Warm Springs BART Station will be constructed by 2013.

2) Yes, the project has received $2 million from the Alameda
County Congestion Management Authority.

3) The project team is working with the City of Fremont to
restart the Warm Springs Station area specific planning process.
The planning process will examine various development scenarios
in the one-half mile radius around the planned station.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Warm Springs Bart Station Area Survey: Retail
This is multiple answers

What kind of shopping center do you want to have in Warm Spring
Bart Area near Warm Springs Bart Station?

(Example)
Lifestyle center
Shopping Center
Regional malls Yes
Enclosed retail structures Yes
Open-air retail complexes
One-stories shopping center
Two-stories shopping center Yes
Pacific Commons or Fremont Hub
Apparel Yes
Movies Theater Yes
Department Store Yes
Big-box store
Simon Property
General Growth
Westfield Yes
None

The Result will be posted next month.

State of the City + Fremont named 'greenest' cities

2008-03-04T20:39:00.000-08:00

Chamber hosts State of the City 2008 on Monday, March 31

The Fremont Chamber of Commerce is pleased to present the State of the City 2008 on Monday, March 31 10 from noon to 2:00 p.m. at the Fremont Marriott Hotel. Mayor Bob Wasserman will discuss our City’s economic development and large scale projects, recap the budget and fiscal state of the city, report progress on the General Plan, and address other important issues facing our city.

The State of the City event will also serve as the Chamber’s annual meeting where we will install our officers and directors as well as offer a salute to Chamber volunteers for their work and dedication.

Registration for the event begins at 11:30 a.m. and lunch is included. Tickets are $40 for Chamber members and $60 for non-members. Tickets are expected to sell quickly, so purchase them in advance by calling the Chamber office at (510) 795-2244 or visiting www.fremontbusiness.com.

Sponsorship opportunities are available at $700 for table sponsorship and $1,200 for event sponsorships. Sponsorship packages include various forms of recognition at the event and in advertising for the event.

For more details, contact Nina Moore at (510) 795-2244 x107 or nmoore@fremontbusiness.com.

Visit the Chamber's calendar page to get weather info, print driving directions and register online.

For more information:
Visit Fremont Chamber
Email: nmoore@fremontbusiness.com

___________________________________________________________________________

Who's the greenest of them all? If a new national survey is any indication, it's the Bay Area.

San Francisco, Oakland and Berkeley made the top 10 of a national survey by Popular Science magazine rating the country's 50 most environmentally friendly cities. Concord and Fremont made the top 50 (numbers 43 and 44, respectively), as did 13 California cities — enough to turn other states green with envy.

The survey combined data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Geographic Society's Green Guide, which collected survey data and government statistics for American cities with more than 100,000 people in categories including air quality, electricity use and transportation habits.

Portland, Ore., grabbed the top spot, while San Francisco ranked

No. 2.

California dominated the survey, with 13 cities on the list. New York came in second, with four cities on the list.

"I'm not surprised," said Sean Randolph, chief executive of the San Francisco-based Bay Area Council Economic Institute. "California has always been more environmentally attuned than other states, and the Bay Area has always been the most environmentally attuned region in the state.

"It's brought a lot of money into the Bay Area," Randolph said. "The Bay Area attracted about a billion dollars last year for research in alternative energy technology."

As examples, Randolph pointed to a $500 million grant from BP Oil for developing biofuels given to University of California, $125 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to UC Berkeley and other entities. Venture capital money invested in "green" technology is another example, he said. Berkeley, as well as a

"The Bay Area's cities scored high largely because our investments in public transit enable more of us to get around without driving, creating far less unhealthy pollution," said Emily Rusch, an advocate with California Public Interest Research Group.

On a 1-to-10 scale, San Francisco, Oakland and Berkeley each scored 8 or more for widespread public transportation and air quality. AC Transit's fleet of three hydrogen buses took the spotlight in an accompanying case study of how green cities got that way.

"This designation reflects Oakland's commitment to be a sustainable model city," Oakland Mayor Ron Dellums said. "Through the tremendous dedication and efforts of community partners and city government working together, we are advancing efforts to curb global climate change and oil dependence, reach our zero-waste goal, and become a leader in 'green' jobs creation."

The survey gave points to cities for the number of buildings certified by the U.S. Green Building Council, as well as their recycling programs. Cities also scored points for getting their electricity from renewable sources such as wind, solar, biomass and hydroelectric power, as well as for offering incentives for residents to invest in their own power sources, such as solar roofs.

California has a head start in this area, having passed legislation in 2004 and 2006 aimed at creating one million solar roofs in the state by 2018. Also, utilities such as PG&E are under a mandate to get 20 percent of their power from renewable sources by 2010. And Assembly Bill 32, passed in 2006, aims to slash state greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent by 2020.

Like Randolph, Adam Gottlieb of the California Energy Commission wasn't surprised by the news.

"Popular Science has acknowledged what we've known all along," Gottlieb said. "We're (California) bold, we're daring, we're innovative. Let's tell Portland to watch its back, because we're gaining on it."

Fremont Water Park: February 2008 Construction

2008-02-28T18:01:00.001-08:00

Photobucket Album

Fremont Water Park: November 2007 Construction

2008-02-28T18:00:00.001-08:00

Photobucket Album

Newswrap 2/27/08

2008-02-27T21:03:00.000-08:00

Retail and Restaurants
Interest by retailers and restaurants remains strong in Fremont and 2008 promises to add new shopping and dining opportunities.

A number of new restaurants have recently opened in Fremont:

Santa Fe Mexican Restaurant in the Northport Center
.
Federico's at the Fremont Plaza
.
Carino's Italian Grill at Pacific Commons

Watch for more restaurants coming soon to Pacific Commons, which will include Asian Pearl, a second location for Applebee's Neighborhood Grill, Prolific Oven, and Dickey's Barbeque.

Additional retail projects that are in the planning or construction stage include:
The Globe, an international retail center located just off of Interstate 880 at Stevenson Boulevard.

Bayside Marketplace, a regional shopping center at the intersection of I-880 and Dixon Landing Road.

Stevenson Row, a neighborhood commercial center, located at the intersection of Liberty Street and Stevenson Boulevard.

Economic Development Highlights Report Available
Interested in learning what the City's Office of Economic Development was up to last year? Check out our Economic Development Highlights. This report highlights the past year's progress and accomplishments on key initiatives carried out by Economic Development staff. It also identifies new and continuing initiatives for 2008.
_____________________________________________________________________

The King & Lyons project, Bayside Marketplace, is designed as a regional
shopping center, similar to Pacific Commons.  The proposed tenant uses include
big box and jr. anchors in the apparel, sporting goods and home and garden categories
along with a number of casual, family style restaurants. 

* Target
* T.G.I. Friday's
* Sporting goods
* Lane Bryant

Newswrap for February

2008-02-25T17:20:00.000-08:00

The Globe
Pacifica Village will start construction in 2 months.
JK Town will start construction in 4-5 months.
China Village will start construction 4-5 months.

Fremont Bank Aqua Adventure Water Park
Complete: Fall 2008
Open to the public: May 2009
www.aquadventure.com Coming Soon

Warm Springs Bart Station
The Alameda County Congestion Management Authority will vote later this month to allocate $100 million toward the 5.4-mile extension. More info coming soon.

More jobs will reduce crime

2008-02-24T00:11:00.000-08:00

San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed is creating jobs by pushing green industry like solar technology. He said to step up and fight against gang. In San Jose jobs rate from 4.1 percent to 5.1 last year.

Please support Oakland A's Ballpark Village. It will create more new jobs in the City of Fremont.

How to reduce crime and more jobs in Fremont?
* Water Park
* New Shopping Center/work at a store
* Security Guards
* Recreation
* Green Industry
* Have a jobs careers in the City of Fremont

Most gang members do bad things because they don't have a jobs. We need Green Industry in the City of Fremont to create more jobs.

Click here to watch video.

Fremont Water Park: September 2007 Construction

2008-02-21T19:31:00.001-08:00

Photobucket Album

No grocery store for Centerville marketplace

2008-02-21T19:02:00.000-08:00

Development of the Centerville Unified site has hit another roadblock. Blake Hunt Ventures announced at a Feb. 19 Redevelopment Agency Board meeting that an anchor grocery store could not be attracted for the project.

The Fremont City Council, convening as the Redevelopment Agency Board, then gave the Danville-based firm the opportunity to redesign its plan for the site, with the condition that a special study session be held to discuss what the city wants as part of the project.

Plans to develop the vacant parcel of land on Fremont Boulevard have been in the works for nearly eight years, and in that time there have been three different projects presented by two developers.

Last October, Blake Hunt Ventures presented two plans for the site, one of which included a 57,000-square-foot mixed-use retail and residential project that included a 20,000-square-foot grocery store and a 16,000-square-foot secondary anchor store, possibly a drug store.

Another 21,000 square feet of various retail and restaurant space was also proposed, along with as many as 48 residential units in six buildings on the south end of the property between Fremont Boulevard and Post Street, and 245 parking spaces for retail.

The firm's second proposal included a 99,200-square-foot retail-only project that included a 45,000-square-foot grocery store and a 16,000-square-foot drug store or secondary anchor store and an additional 38,200 square feet of additional retail and restaurants.

There would have been 427 parking spaces.

The site is bounded by Fremont Boulevard, Bonde Way, Post Street and Thornton Avenue.

Brad Blake, the firm's chief executive officer, told the redevelopment board Tuesday night he had contacted more than 30 grocery stores of all brands and sizes, but only two showed any interest in taking up shop in north Fremont.

Blake added that "interest" merely meant the stores wanted to see the site plans and then discuss options.

"What most (of the stores) said was that their existing stores in the area were doing pretty good business," Blake said. "They didn't see the value of opening new stores and taking away customers from their existing ones."

Blake said the two stores that did show interest were 55,000 square feet and 75,000 square feet in size, and both wanted to front Thornton Avenue with five parking spaces for every 1,000 square feet.

"Basically they wanted to have their store and then just a parking lot," Blake said. "We didn't feel that was consistent with what the city wanted."

Blake's new plan for the site has a retail focus, with 85,000 linear feet of commercial space fronting Fremont Boulevard. There would be a town green space in the central area of development with the rear of the site along Post Street held in abeyance for possible residential units in the future.

He said the anchor store may now be a drug store.

Redevelopment Agency Director Elisa Tierney said of the six development teams that bid on the site last summer, Blake Hunt was the only firm to work with retail space. She added that the Centerville Business Community Association was opposed to the notion of adding residential to the rear of the project.

Many Centerville residents were also opposed to more residential units in the area.

Mark Dinh said when the CBCA was presented with Blake Hunt's new plans for the site, the only positive comment the group had was on the town green. He added that the parcel in the rear of the project is not suited for residential units.

"Sandwiching residential with retail does not and will not prove well for Fremont," Dinh said.

Other residents said a grocery store could be viable at the site, despite Blake explanation's for not attracting one.

"The site could handle some sort of store," David Tong said. "The business people and the neighbors all thought a store could do well. Centerville could really support developing the rear area too, and keep it all retail."

Some board members, however, said a grocery store would not be supported without additional residential units.

"A grocery store does not comply with the project," board member Anu Natarajan said. "We do hear the community's need for a store and we have plenty of sites around Fremont for that. We want to develop a pedestrian main street, and a store wouldn't work here."

Board member Bill Harrsion said residents need to take into consideration that the more than 30 stores Blake Hunt Ventures contacted simply don't want to put a franchise on that particular site.

"I understand people's concerns for wanting a grocery store, but we're not in a position to tell stores where to site," he said. "Mr. Blake has a good idea. He needs to work with staff and the community, and this project needs to be commercial."

The city will hold a special work session within a month to gather input from the community and city council on what should be built on the site.

"Who's Shopping in Fremont Today?"

2008-02-21T18:59:00.000-08:00

Taking a different approach to the annual Retail Development Opportunities presentation, Fremont's Economic Development Department described for some 50 business owners last week what types of people are shopping in Fremont.

The presentation, entitled "Who's Shopping in Fremont Today?", is the sixth annual retail presentation to be held in the council chambers of Fremont City Hall.

Economic Development Director Daren Fields typically gives the presentation. But this year three different city staffers gave the overview, based largely on results of the 2006 American Community Survey, performed by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Angela Tsui, Fremont's economic development coordinator, presented demographics of the city's population. Of the city's 211,000 residents, she said 105,000 are women, and 101,000 are between the ages of 25 and 54.

Tsui said the median age for Fremont residents is older than 36 years. Additionally, she said there are 68,000 households in the city, with an average size of 3.1 residents per home. Average household income is $122,000.

Of those 68,000 homes, she said 32,000 of them have at least one child younger than 18 years old.

Breaking down ethnicity in the city, Tsui said 48 percent of Fremont residents are Asian, while 32 percent are white. Also, 14 percent are Hispanic, and 4 percent are African American.

As for education, 28 percent of residents have a high school diploma or less, while 27 percent has a bachelor's degree. Another 21 percent has a graduate or professional degree, 17 percent has had some college, while 7 percent of residents has an associate's degree, according to Tsui.

When it comes to employment, 82 percent of residents work in the private sector, 11 percent in the public sector, and 7 percent are unemployed.

During the day, Tsui said there are approximately 198,000 people in the city, including stay-at-home parents, residents who work from home, and residents from other cities who work in Fremont.

She added that equals about $2.7 billion in estimated retail potential each year.

Lori Taylor, the city's economic development manager, introduced the concept of psychographics a means that describes consumers on the basis of psychological characteristics.

According to Taylor, there are five major psychographic groups in Fremont.

Young digerati: This group makes up 28 percent of Fremont's population. Their age range is 25 to 44, and they are tech-savvy singles and couples, described as a blend of "digital" and "literati."

They shop at places like Banana Republic and Neiman Marcus, read the New York Times and drive BMWs.

Money and brains: This group makes up 22 percent of the population.

They are 45 to 64 years old, and are married couples with few children. They shop at places like Bloomingdale's and Costco; they drive Acuras, Infinitis or Lexuses; and listen to National Public Radio.

Bohemian mix: This group makes up 10 percent of the population.

Their age is 55 years of age and younger. They go to nightclubs and microbrew establishments for fun. They eat out a lot, and shop at places like Macy's.

Movers and shakers: This group makes up 8 percent of the population. Their age is 35 to 54 years of age with no children.

They drive luxury cars, read Fortune magazine, and eat at places like California Pizza Kitchen.

Blue blood estates: This group makes up 7 percent of the population. They drive Mercedes-Benzes, shop at Neiman Marcus, and are considered to lead the nation's second wealthiest lifestyle.

Taylor said the remaining 25 percent of the psychographic population is a mix of other smaller groups. Given these statistics, she added the majority of Fremont shoppers buy high quality, stylish and fashionable goods.

However, Taylor said residents, as well as the economic development department, would like to see more stores that offer men's apparel or sporting goods. More "quick dining" and take out establishments would be very successful here as well, she said.

Since 2004, City of Fremont has added 1.2 million square feet of retail, mostly along Auto Mall Parkway, according to retail development manager Leigh Boyd.

Currently, the successful shopping areas in the city include the Fremont Hub Shopping Center on Mowry Avenue, Pacific Commons on Auto Mall Parkway and the Shops at Washington West, along Paseo Padre Parkway.

Boyd said these shopping centers have brought in many retail stores that are in high demand in the city.

"(Pacific Commons) has done a wonderful job in shoring up apparel stores," she said. "It's a criteria that's been underserved in Fremont. It's established a very solid foundation for Fremont."

Boyd said the city plans to add more business to Pacific Commons, including a 14,000-square-foot Asian Pearl restaurant as well as the city's second Applebee's, a Dickey's barbecue, and the third Prolific Oven franchise.

Boyd said Fremont Hub also has done a good job in bringing more apparel stores to the city, including Ross and Marshall's Department Store.

Conversely, the Shops at Washington West brought more eateries to the city.

"The center really had a focus on food, not just for residents, but for city employees and daytime workers in the downtown area," she said.

The city is planning a total of 1.2 million square feet of additional retail in the future, including the proposed Oakland Athletics' baseball village project, according to Boyd.

Other projects in the works include the 4,000-square-foot Bayside Marketplace near Interstate 880 and Durham Road; a project at 5339 Mowry Avenue, the site of the former Jericho's Steakhouse; and Plaza Los Olivos, which broke ground last summer.

Boyd said the city is still interested in adding establishment stores like Nordstrom, Apple, Any Mountain and Cheesecake Factory.

"Not a day goes by where we don't get a call from someone asking ÔWhere's Whole Foods?'" she said. "We are trying; the message to us is that Fremont needs a specialty grocery store."

"These are all part of the retail we're ready for. We have the foundation, we have the profile, and we have the resources and shoppers," Boyd added.

February 7, 2008 Presentation Part 2

2008-02-19T18:44:00.000-08:00

Slide 22: What We Buy

Slide 23: What Do We Need?

Slide 24: Think Projects

Slide 25: Where Fremont Shops Today
Pacific Commons
The Fremont Hub
Washington West Retail

Slide 26: Pacific Commons
DSW, Carter's, Baby Hugs, Justice just for girl, Bassett Furniture Direct, Starbucks Cofee, Ashley Furniture Home Store, Old Navy, Kohl's, Office Depot, Premier Pizza, Carino's, Staples, Costco, Lines n Things, Circuit City, Claim Jumper, Quiznos Sub, Party America Tapioca Express, Gamestop, Lowe's, Mancini's Sleepworld, In-N-Out Burger, P.F Chang's China Bistro, Wingstop, Washington Mutral, Radio Shack, Half Price Books, Cold Stone Creamery, 3 Day Blinds, Rubios, Panera Bread, Ritz Camera, and Ohana Hawaiian BBQ.

Slide 27: Coming Soon to Pacific Commons
Asian Pearl, Applebee's Dickey's Barbecue Pit, and The Prolific Oven bakery & Cofeehouse.

Slide 28: The Fremont Hub

Slide 29: Shops at Washington West

Slide 30: Future Retail Projects
In Planning

Slide 31: Oakland A's Barkpark Village

Slide 32: King & Lyons
Bayside Marketplace

Slide 33
* Capitol Avenue Downtown
* Centerville Marketplace
* Ohlone College

Slide 34:Future Retail Projects
Under Construction

Slide 35: Stevenson Row

Slide 36: 5339 Mowry Avenue
Former Jerico's Steakhouse
Starbucks Cofee

Slide 37: Plaza Los Olivos

Slide 38: Ready for the Next Level
Whole Foods, Nordstrom, Apple, Any Mountain, California Pizza Kitchen, and Cheesecake Factory.

Slide 39: Think Opportunity

Retail Presentation February 7, 2008 Part1

2008-02-18T21:46:00.000-08:00

Slide 1
Who's Shopping in Fremont Today?
City of Fremont Retail Development Opportunities
February 7, 2008

Slide 2
Think Fremont
* Demographics

Think Market
* Psychographics
* Where Fremont Shops Today

Think Projects
* Future Retail Projects
* Retails development Opportunities

Slide 3: Fremont Retail Trade Area

Fremont
Primary Trade Area
Population: 211,000

Newark/Union City/Milpitas
Secondary Trade Areas
Population: 183,000

Total Population: 394,000

Slide 4: Think People

Slide 5: Fremont Demographics
Population: 211,000

Slide 6
Median Age: 36.2 years
Ages 25-54: 101,000

Slide 7: Households
Number of Households 68,000

Average Household Size 3.1

Average Household Income $122,000

Average Home Sale Price in 2007 $819,600

Slide 8: Ethnicity
White 32%
Asian 48%
Hispanic 14%
Black/ African American 4%
Other 2%

Slide 9: Education
Graduate or Professional Degree 21%
Associate Degree 7%
Some College 17%
Bachelor Degree 27%
High School Diploma or Less 28%

Slide 10: Employment
* Leading Industries of Employment
- High Tech
- Biotech
- Professional Services
- Manufacturing

* Type of Employer
- 82% Private Sector
- 11% Public Sector
- 7% Self-employed

Slide 11: Daytime Population
198,000

Slide 12: $pening Power
U.S. Bureau Of Labor Statistics X House
Consumer Expenditure Surveys
= Estimated Annual Retail Spend Potential $2.7 billion

Slide 13: Think Market

Slide 14: Fremont Psychographics 101
* What are they?
* How are they gathered?
* What do they mean?

Slide 15: Fremont Psychographics
Other Categories 25%
Young Digerati 28%
Money & Brains 22%
Bohemian Mix 10%
Movers & Shakers 8%
Blue Blood Estates 7%

Slide 16: Young Digerati
18,448 Households
28% Population

* Tech-savvy singles and couples
* Affluent, highly educated, and ethnically mixed
* "Urban Uptown" social group
* "Young Achievers" lifestyle group

Slide 17: Money & Brains
14,871 Households
22% Population

* High incomes and advanced degrees
* Sophisticated tastes to match their credentials
* Married couples with few children
* Live in fashionable homes
* " Urban Uptown" social group
* " Affluent Empty Nests" lifestage group

Slide 18: Bohemian Mix
6,581 House Holds
10 % Population

* Young, mobile urbanite
* Represent the nation's most liberal lifestyles
* Progressive mix of young singles and couples, students, and, professionals
* "Urban Uptown" social group
* Young Achievers" lifestyle group

Slide 19: Movers & Shakers
5,310 Households
8% Population

* Wealthy suburban world of dual income couples
* Typically between the ages of 35-54 without children
* Rank # 1 for owning a small business and having a home office
* "Elite Suburbs" social group
* "Midlife Success" lifestyle group

Slide 20: Blue Blood Estates
4,513 Households
7% Population

* Family portrait of suburban wealth: a place of million dollar homes, high-end cars, and exclusively private clubs
* Nation's second wealthiest lifestyle
* Characterized by married couples with children and college degrees
* "Elite Suburbs" social group
* "Accumulated Wealth" lifestyle group

Slide 21: Shopping Profile
How do we shop based on Psychographics?

Developer unable to bring Centerville supermarket + Q&A

2008-02-17T15:33:00.000-08:00

The latest effort to secure a supermarket for Fremont's Centerville district failed.

Blake Hunt Ventures, the firm picked by the city to develop a 6.6-acre lot near the Centerville train station, couldn't find a grocer willing to anchor a planned retail hub.

Grocers turned down the site, bounded by Fremont Boulevard, Post Street, Bonde Way and Thornton Avenue, because it didn't provide enough new housing developments, according to a city report.

With a grocery store out of the mix, the City Council, acting as the Redevelopment Agency, will consider Tuesday whether to find a new developer or continue working with Blake Hunt on a retooled development.

The firm has proposed either building housing on one-third of the site, or leaving one-third undeveloped for future use either as a parking lot or a different development.

The proposed supermarket would be replaced by a drugstore or a bank as principal tenant.

Council members voted 3-2 last October to enter into exclusive negotiations with Blake Hunt primarily because it was the only developer proposing an all-retail project.

The Centerville Business and Community Association has strongly opposed building housing on the redevelopment site, according to a city report.

The long-vacant site has a star-crossed past.

More than five years ago, a Ralphs was supposed to anchor a new shopping center, but the supermarket chain ended up pulling out of the Bay Area market.

More recently, developer James Tong couldn't find the money for a mixed housing and retail development or a retail-only development with an emphasis on restaurants.

Blake Hunt co-founder Brad Blake told council members last year that landing a supermarket would be easier with the expansion of Save Mart, owner of Lucky, and the entrance of British grocer Tesco in the Bay Area.

Fremont officials said last month they expect Tesco to open a Fremont location. The company was looking at locations along Mowry Avenue and Stevenson Boulevard, Economic Development Director Daren Fields said.
____________________________________________________________________

TCV: What has changed?

Blake: We are proposing to develop approximately five of the six plus acres at the site. The undeveloped land would be retained by the city and would be developed in some manner in the future. It was decided to reserve it for better economic alternatives.

TCV: What happened to the concept of a small market on the site? Is this change the result of an unrealistic expectation or a shift in market conditions?

Blake: Probably a combination of both. If you look at where grocery stores are located in Fremont and Newark, the demographics and traffic patterns, from a purely analytical perspective, it appears there is a hole to fill. However, when discussing this with possible tenants, the added business from a store in this location does not appear to entice them. Tesco (U.K.) which had initially shown interest in the site appears more interested in existing buildings around the Bay Area.

TCV: The example being used for a major tenant of the complex is a full service pharmacy. Why?

Blake: This type of business uses a different model and a pharmacy is a bit more neighborhood-oriented. A couple of major pharmacies have indicated interest in that site.

TCV: What is envisioned for the remaining buildings?

Blake: One of the buildings might house a bank. That plus the pharmacy will leave about 30,000 plus square feet. We anticipate a 15,000 square feet of food-related/restaurant business with the balance used by various retail and service businesses.

TCV: Is this still considered a pedestrian oriented development?

Blake: Yes. The ultimate pedestrian oriented tenant is the restaurant. Shops need to have storefronts that interact with the sidewalk and pedestrians.

TCV: Is this proposal a major shift from the initial plan?

Blake: I do not consider this a big change in building tenancy and layout. The major changes are:

No grocery store, but we began with the premise that the 15,000 square foot space would possibly be a grocery store but could be something else such as a pharmacy.

Addition of a 'town green' element

Retail orientation toward Fremont Boulevard without a major internal street.

TCV: Are you still optimistic about moving forward with this site?

Blake: Our interest is in retail development. If the council decides they want to vertically integrate this site with residential units, we are probably not interested. In that event, we will withdraw from the project.

TCV: How do you envision the architectural design for the Unified Site?

Blake: Classic and timeless rather than trendy. We are not trying to create more historic buildings, rather a development that compliments the area.

Future transit oriented development + BART to Warm Springs appears on track

2008-02-16T14:32:00.000-08:00

Type: Medium to High density Mixed Use

Status: Under Development

Location: Fremont, California

Acreage: 30

Units: 550

Development Team:
Morley Bros., Riding Group, and Sobrato Development Companies

Description:
The Morley Bros. are developing 550 homes and retail, and working
with nearby property owners to master plan a true mixed use transit
oriented development totaling 2,000 homes and 100,000 square feet
of commercial/retail near the future BART Warms Springs station.
_________________________________________________________________

Construction on BART's extension to Warm Springs could start early next year, now that the funding gap has been significantly closed, officials said.

The Alameda County Congestion Management Authority will vote later this month to allocate $100 million toward the 5.4-mile extension.

In return for the allocation —

$15 million more than the agency first proposed — Fremont has pledged to devote $60 million of its future state transportation funds toward the Warm Springs extension.

The combined $160 million would significantly close the project's

$225 million shortfall. The remaining $65 million could come from state infrastructure bonds approved by voters last year, city officials said.

"BART to Warm Springs is closer to reality right now that it's ever been," Councilmember Bob Wieckowski said. He was in Washington, D.C., last week lobbying Bay Area representatives for an extra $30 million to cover expected cost overruns.

The $747 million project, which will extend BART south to the area near the New United Motor Manufacturing Inc. plant, has been one of Fremont's top transit priorities for decades.

A new station in Warm Springs — and possibly one in Irvington — potentially relieves traffic on Interstates 880 and 680, opens up new development opportunities around the stations and sets the stage for extending BART service to San Jose.

Although the proposed $160 million doesn't completely close the funding gap, BART Director Tom Blalock said it should be enough to start construction.

BART, he added, is eager to start work early next year on the first stage: a train tunnel under Stevenson Boulevard and Central Park.

Cost estimates are expected to rise by $35 million for every year the project is delayed.

The Congestion Management Agency's proposed allocation, which was approved in principle earlier this month, is part of an update to the 25-year Countywide Transportation Plan. Updates are made every four years, so had the BART project not been fundedthis year, it likely would have been shelved, officials said.

Fremont's $60 million share amounts to nearly three-quarters of the $85 million in state transportation money it anticipates receiving during the next quarter century.

Assemblyman Alberto Torrico, D-Newark, is working on legislation that would allow the county to issue bonds in order to spend the money right away, Wieckowski said.

The extension tentatively is scheduled for completion in 2013.

With most of Fremont's transportation money going to the BART project, Wieckowski said there inevitably will be less money available for major road projects.

City spotlight: Fremont

2008-02-11T22:35:00.000-08:00

History: With an area of 92 square miles, Fremont is the fifth-largest California city by area and the fourth-largest by population in the Bay Area. It began with the founding of Mission San Jose in 1797. That area and four nearby communities - Centerville, Niles, Irvington and Warm Springs - merged in 1956 to become the city of Fremont.

What excites you the most about Fremont's future? As we just celebrated our 50th anniversary as an incorporated city in 2006, Fremont continues to make significant investment in our infrastructure. Over $75 million is being spent to build a new overpass and underpass in order to facilitate the BART expansion to the Warm Springs district in Fremont and then on to San Jose. Another $15 million is being spent to build a new Family Water Play facility at Central Park.

What troubles you the most about Fremont's future? Like many cities that are transforming from a suburban to an urban environment, Fremont is facing difficult land-use decisions with a limited amount of vacant land available.

What is the biggest opportunity in your community? The Oakland A's proposed Ballpark Village, which includes a new 32,000-seat ballpark, 540,000 square feet of retail development, and around 3,150 housing units located next to the Pacific Commons retail center at I-880 and Auto Mall Parkway.

What is Fremont's biggest asset? The people. Fremont is home to a diverse, highly educated, globally connected population. Students in our top ranked school system speak over 100 different languages at home, over 44 percent of residents over the age of 18 have a bachelor's degree or graduate degree, and a large percentage of Fremont companies have satellite operations around the world (primarily in Asia).

What is its biggest liability? Continuing uncertainty on local revenues due to takeaways by the state of California.

What is the most important development project going or to come soon? The Oakland A's proposed Ballpark Village.

What is something people don't know about your community? Fremont is home to over 1,000 high-tech companies and has a thriving biotech/life sciences industry cluster.

Population: 211,662
Biggest private employer: New United Motor Manufacturing Inc. (NUMMI)
No. of NUMMI employees: 5,000
Number of business licenses: 12,000
Jobs in Fremont: 105,500
Average household income: $122,388
Median home price, November '07: $642,500
On the Web: www.ci.fremont.ca.us

Fremont General Plan project

2008-02-08T15:03:00.000-08:00

First, some good news:  The city awarded a grant by the Air
Quality Management District to incorporate greenhouse gas
reduction into the General Plan.  Part of the grant commitment
is for them to put on a targeted issue forum on greenhouse gas
issues. Let Dan Schoenholz know if you're interested in
helping to put on this event; He need all the help he can get!

Later this month they will be talking to the Planning
Commission (2/21 at 7:00p.m in the Council Chambers) about the
General Plan and specifically about land use and housing to
get some feedback from them. On 2/26 they will have a
discussion with the City Council regarding where to
accommodate future residents and also about possible changes
to affordable housing policies in the General Plan (7:00 p.m.
in the Council Chambers). As part of these discussions they
will be presenting results from our public meetings and on-line
survey that relate to land use and housing.

They have tentatively scheduled similar sessions in March and
April on land use related to commercial and industrial uses and on
parks, but he don't want to give dates yet because they might
move around.

They been busy the last couple of months trying to pull
together several of the technical background reports and
hope to have them posted on-line in the next couple of weeks
or so.

Let him know if you have questions!

Dan Schoenholz
dschoenholz@ci.fremont.ca.us

Newswrap for 2/04

2008-02-04T15:33:00.000-08:00

Opening Date:
Asian Pearl will try to open in April or May (the latest).
Yogurtswirl will open in April. (Under Construction)
Chef Nous Bakery will possible start construction in 4 weeks and complete in 2 months.

Saigon Tenants:
Rice Museum
Taste of Vietnam (Food Court)
Cyclo Cafe (Under Construction) Open February or March
East West Bank (Open)
Pho Appetit (Under Construction) Possible open July or August

Pacifica Village at the Globe might start construction this month and complete June or July. Construction planned to construction January, because of permitting issues. Soon they will receive their permit for Pacific Village.

Please note:
In Richmond, Asian Pearl Seafood Restaurant don't have the traditional dim sum carts to order off of, but it is the type where you check off an order card and they bring you your little dishes and steamers straight from the kitchen. Fremont will have traditional dim sum carts to order off of.

Yogurt Swirl which is similar to Pink Berry and Yogurtland. It mostly similar to Yogurtland. Yogurtland is where you make your own frozen yogurt yourself and choose your own toppings. It might have 6-7 frozen ice cream machine. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/dGJU6o-ZvvxOpJQjl1tP3g?select=h2wowPYsuFoAZ-9IJKE8Gw

Future Asian Shopping Center Survey

2008-01-30T20:35:00.000-08:00

Please complete the survey about "Future Asian Retail in Fremont." The survey will end March 1, 2008. The final Result will be posted around March 2-8, 2008. Thank You

Citizens for a Better Community

2008-01-29T19:14:00.000-08:00

Citizens for a Better Community - which is a local service group that is primarily Chinese Asians. They're involved in many community projects as well as having our own programs to serve the homeless, youth, the elderly and their internship program, where they are place primarily people your age in various local legislative offices - something you might be interested in considering. This is their website : www.cbc-sfbay.com However, they are doing a major rehaul of the site but this will give you a flavor of the many things that we are involved in that has heightened their contributions and participation in the Fremont Community.

Their hallmark annual event is their CBC Spring Celebration which will be held March 29 at the Fremont Marriott. This year their theme is Olympics related - Beijing 2008 - One Community One Dream, with this year's main entertainment - an American Idol like talent show where contestants will audition, and if chosen would perform that evening to compete for cash prizes of $150-500.

They are encourage their youth to try out their talented - it promises to be a lot of fun.

On the evening of March 29, 2008, one winner will walk away with a Grand Prize of $500

CBC’s GOT TALENT

Seven Finalists will compete for
Grand Prize: $500, 2nd Prize $250 and 3rd Prize $150

Think you got talent? Amateurs of all kinds are invited to try out. Individuals and groups of up to 10 people welcomed. Singers, dancers, animal acts, musicians, bizarre novelty acts, magicians, comedians, belly dancers.......all ages…...the sky's the limit! Don't miss your opportunity to perform before a panel of celebrity judges and an audience of 500 to prove to the CBC Community that YOU have indeed what it takes to be the next big star!

If you think you do, in 30 words or less, describe your talent and send your name and contact information to Ray Tong:

E-mail: PacGenCon@sbcglobal.net Fax: 510-824-0492

The more interesting your entry, the better your chances of being selected! The first 60 entries will be invited to give a 4 minute audition on Feb. 15th or 16th. You will be notified by email. If you make the cut and are selected to be a finalist, you will perform at the CBC Spring Celebration on March 29, 2008 at the Fremont Marriott, where the winners will be chosen.

Are you the next great star? Do you have what it takes? Make your Dream come true; enter now for a chance to become CBC’s next big discovery!

All auditions will be videotaped and out takes shown during the Spring Celebration Event and/or posted on YouTube.com.*

The Globe Update Part 1

2008-01-21T21:55:00.000-08:00

Europa Village at the Globe

Primary Type:Retail
Free Standing Bldg

Building Size:85,000 SF

Property Description:
Looking for a Hotel Operator or Hotel Franchise to fill and operate 83 - 90 rooms in the Globe. Building Size: 85,000 sq ft, 3 stories total (1st story =15,000 sq ft, 2nd and 3rd =35,000 sq ft each)

The Globe is the first internationally-themed lifestyle center to ever hit the United States. It will be the premier retail and entertainment destination for the Bay Area entertaining its guests with ethnic foods, clothing and social events.

1100 - 1800 sq ft space available for Wine Bar, French Bakery, European Cafe, European specialty shops, jewelry store.

2000 - 2600 sq ft space available for Wine Bar, French Bakery, European Cafe, European specialty shops, jewelry store.

More info

Taj India Village at the Globe

Property Description:

Building Size: 51,500 SF

Primary Type:Retail
Retail Pad

1200 - 1800 sq ft units available for ethnic retail stores including, Indian Wedding Clothing Boutique, Indian Dessert Shops, Indian Hair Removal Shops, Beauty/Nail Salon, Sunglass Shop.

2000 - 2500 sq ft retail space for Ethnic Retail, Indian Restaurant, Kabob Restaurant, Clothing
Boutique.

5000 sq ft space available for large restaurant and lounge concept, Steakhouse, Asian Fusion Restaurant, Indian Restaurant, Robata Lounge, Sports Bar, Restaurant Club Concept.

More info

Pacifica Village at the Globe - Fremont, CA

Primary Type:Retail

Retail Pad

Building Size:30,828 SF

Property Description:

1400 sq ft space available for Floral Shop, Clothing or Shoe Boutique, Beauty Salon, Nail Salon, Sports Retail, Stationary Store, Electronics Retail.

9000 sq ft space available for furniture retail center, electronics specialty store. Unit can be split into 4000 and 5000 sq ft units.

2000 sq ft space available for Bath and Body Works, Jewelry Store, Women's Accessories, Beauty Salon, Children's Toy Store.

1050 sq ft space available for Photography Studio, Nail Salon, Hookah Lounge.

More info

Saigon Village at the Globe Mall

Primary Type:Retail
Retail Pad

Building Size:62,502 SF

Brand new 2000 sq ft construction in cold shell, set for Hair/Beauty Salon, Nail Bar, Clothing Retail, Photography Studio, Boutique Retail.

Large Restaurant Space set for Thai Restaurant, Italian Restaurant, Sports Bar or Lounge, Asian Fusion Cafe.

More info

China Village at the Globe
Primary Type:Shopping Center
Specialty Center

Property Description:

55,000 sq ft space of total 80,000 sq ft space already leased to high-end internationally themed supermarket.

Looking for 900 - 1500 sq ft retail units.

The Globe is the first internationally-themed lifestyle center to ever hit the United States. It will be the market hub for the Bay Area entertaining its guests with ethnic foods, clothing and entertainment.

900 - 1100 sq ft space available for boutique retail shops, floral shop, cigar shop, clothing and shoe retail, women accessories store.

1100 - 1500 sq ft space available for fast-food restaurant retail space in the Globe's restaurant row.

More info

Japan-Korea Town at the Globe

Building Size:81,157 SF

Primary Type:Retail
Retail (Other)

1000 sq ft units available for boutique retail shops, dessert concepts, nail salon

1700 - 2200 sq ft units available for restaurant concept and retail

32900 sq ft unit available for premier, high-end seafood restaurant and lounge

Property Description:
The Globe is the first internationally-themed lifestyle center to ever hit the United States. It will be the market hub for the Bay Area entertaining its guests with ethnic foods, clothing and entertainment.

More info

Heart Village at the Globe

Building Size:36,000 SF

Primary Type:Retail
Restaurant

5000 sq ft unit available for Steakhouse Restaurant Lounge and Bar

4584 sq ft unit available for Asian Fusion Restaurant Lounge and Bar

6219 sq ft unit available for Brewery Beer and Wine Restaurant Lounge and Bar

6193 sq ft unit available for Robata, Teppanyaki, or Sushi Lounge and Bar

Globe hits standstill

2008-01-20T13:54:00.000-08:00

The Globe shopping complex, billed as Fremont's Epcot Center, is proving susceptible to local economic woes.

Globe officials so far have announced just four tenants for Saigon Village, the project's 24-shop initial development, completed in August.

With most of the storefronts still empty stucco shells, city officials are concerned that future phases of the project, off Stevenson Boulevard just west of Interstate 880, could be delayed.

"The retail market has softened a little bit and the developer is having a harder time finding retailers to go in," Economic Development Coordinator Angela Tsui said.

Fred Kim, who works for Globe developer John Wynn, acknowledged the economic downturn has affected leasing projections, but said completion of the $200 million project would not face significant delays.

The Globe is one of three regionalshopping centers planned for interchanges along Fremont's

I-880 corridor that city officials hope will boost sales tax revenue.

Championed by Wynn as a celebration of Fremont's diversity, the 31-acre development is to include several shopping and entertainment villages with the look and feel of different Asian and European countries.

In addition to the Vietnamese-themed Saigon Village, the project is slated to include a Pacific Village, China Village, Japan/Korea Village, India Village and Europa Village, Kim said.

Within the villages, plans call for a theater, hotel and banquet hall, as well as public plazas and many ethnic restaurants and shops.

The project is somewhat risky in the current retail market, city officials say.

Unlike Pacific Commons, near the I-880 interchange at Auto Mall Parkway, and a planned development near the interchange at Dixon Landing Road, both of which rely heavily on big box anchor tenants, The Globe is leasing many smaller spaces to independent businesses.

But the market for small retailers has weakened, Tsui said, in part because of the poor housing market and credit crunch.

A lot of individuals affected by the housing market are hesitant to start businesses because they don't have the capital, Kim said. Those who do have credit have shown strong interest, he said.

Still, Kim said the slow lease-up at Saigon Village probably has more to do with the project's vision than the ailing economy.

Globe officials have turned away several prospective tenants — both national chains and independent shops — because they didn't fit with the developer's vision for unique shops that showcase the best of each culture, Kim said.

"We're just being a little picky, that's all."

The only business now operating out of Saigon Village is East West Bank. An independent coffee shop, Vietnamese pho restaurant and Vietnamese food court will be opening soon, Kim said.

A few other tenants, including a major Asian supermarket, also are on board, but Kim wouldn't disclose their names.

Globe officials hope to have Saigon Village leased out by this summer, Kim said. Completion of the entire project, which had been scheduled for the end of the year, is now set for early 2009 due to city permitting issues.

3 sports team are moving to suburban

2008-01-12T11:38:00.000-08:00

Oakland A's are moving to Fremont.
San Francisco are moving to Santa Clara.
Oakland Raiders eye Dublin Site for Stadium
____________________________________________________________________
Dublin officials don't share Raiders' interest in site
City officials were surprised to find Oakland Raiders representatives at a Thursday event for developers interested in Camp Parks land.

Mayor Janet Lockhart said it was a "very casual exchange," but Raiders officials approached her to say "they thought it would be a cool idea to put a stadium out here."

No formal presentation has been made to Dublin, and Raiders officials say they are committed to Oakland, but they were interested in learning more about the federal land swap process. The Army is looking at giving 180 acres of Camp Parks, along Dublin Boulevard, to a developer in exchange for improvements on the remainder of the Army Reserve base.

Mark Davis, the son of Raiders' owner Al Davis, and Tom Blanda, the Raider's finance and technology director, attended the day-long session in Dublin. Although the Raiders' lease at McAfee Coliseum is set to expire in 2010, the Raiders' chief executive Amy Trask said Friday not to put too much stock into the Dublin visit.

"We have had discussion with the city Oakland and county of Alameda and are working with them in good faith, as they are working with us in good faith," Trask said. "We are exploring opportunities for the team to remain in Oakland."

Speaking to the East Bay Business Times on Friday, Blanda said, "Our comments were more hypothetical, not based on a desire to move this club." Blanda too said the team is meeting in "good faith" with Oakland and Alameda County but said the team wants to investigate tax breaks or other advantages there might be found elsewhere.

"That just helps us to continue to negotiate in good faith and to continue to negotiate with the highest level of ... not options, but knowing as much as we can know going into negotiations," Blanda said.

Lockhart said Dublin would not be interested in becoming the heart of the Raider Nation anyway. The suburban city of 43,000 could not handle the impacts of a huge Raiders fan crowd.

"It would shut down Dublin on game day," Lockhart said.

Football stadiums belong in bigger cities that can provide parking and buffers to shield residents from game day revelry, Lockhart said. That could not happen in Dublin, where fans would either come on BART or pack an already congested Interstate 580 to get there.

Then there is also the question of what to do with a giant stadium during the rest of the year.

Councilman Tony Oravetz, who first heard about Raiders stadium interest on Friday, said he would be interested in learning more. He said four years ago when Bishop Ranch Developer Alex Mehran was interested in putting a baseball stadium in as part of proposed large-scale project, Oravetz was interested.

"That I was highly in favor of," Oravetz said. "As a sports fan, those things I don't reject out of hand."

Camp Park spokeswoman Amy Phillips said she wasn't aware of any Raiders discussion. She said Camp Parks itself wouldn't pick a developer or have a say on what goes on the land, those decisions would be made by Army Reserve national leaders.

This isn't the first time a professional team has shown interest in Dublin. In 1996, there were talks of the Oakland A's building a stadium near the I-580/680 corridor.

Five years later, the San Jose Sharks wanted to build two ice rinks and gym at Emerald Glen Park for public use. That project sparked resident outrage and the hockey team backed off from the idea a few months later.

Sushi bar wrapped up in assaults

2008-01-08T21:03:00.000-08:00

Police demand better security at Pacific Commons nightspot

A new sushi restaurant and nightclub kept police busy early Sunday morning — as it has on other weekend nights — and now officers plan to pay more attention to it.

"We're going to put that place on our extra-patrol list," Sgt. Chris Mazzone said of Kaenyama Sushi, Teppanyaki & Bar at 43785 Boscell Road in the Pacific Commons shopping center.

Police were called to the bar shortly after 1 a.m. Sunday to break up a fight in which one man was struck in the head with a beer bottle.

Then at 2 a.m., police were dispatched to the ampm gas station at Grimmer Boulevard and Auto Mall Parkway where two men, who had been at the restaurant, beat up a third man while he was pumping gas, Mazzone said.

The attackers shouted "gang-related terminology" at the victim and punched him in the face several times before two bystanders chased them away, Mazzone said.

The victim also had been at the restaurant that night and told police he had seen his two attackers there, Mazzone said.

While police were tending to the victim, who had suffered several cuts and a swollen eye, a 20-year-old male crashed his car into a center divider in full view of the officers, Mazzone said.

Police found the driver wearing a re-entry bracelet for the restaurant and arrested him for driving under the influence of alcohol, the sergeant said.

"Either he had a fake ID or (the restaurant) wasn't checking closely enough," Mazzone said.

Calvin Tsang, the restaurant's manager, said it employs 10 securityguards on weekend nights when it transforms itself into a bar and lounge.

"We have enough security," Tsang said Monday of the restaurant, which has posh furnishings and seems geared toward a high-end clientele.

Police last were called to the restaurant on Saturday, Dec. 22, when eight units were needed to break up a large fight, according to police reports.

Since November, police have had at least four other calls for service connected to the restaurant, Mazzone said: a misdemeanor warrant arrest, an auto burglary, a grand theft and a fight.

"Sometimes when (businesses) change format, it takes a little time for them to manage that," Mazzone said of the restaurant, which opened four months ago.

He said that police plan to talk to restaurant management about improving security, possibly by better screening patrons and reporting incidents.

"I can pretty much guarantee that this will be addressed," he said.

Board to consider multistory school

2008-01-08T21:01:00.000-08:00

Oakland A's officials have discussed building a multistory "urban" school as part of its proposed ballpark village in Fremont. While school board members disagree about exactly how many levels the building should be, all are in agreement that a multistory elementary campus is OK in Fremont.

The community's first multistory elementary school could become reality if the Fremont school board on Wednesday approves a two-story classroom building at Warm Springs Elementary.

While a two-story classroom facility would save the district land at a time when it's confronting overcrowding at certain campuses, the seven-room project would cost the district more than $3 million.

Of the seven rooms, threewould replace existing portable classrooms, and three would be used to accommodate the additional 80 students projected to enroll at the school next fall. The last room would be available for possible future needs.

The project, while notable as the first multilevel structure on an elementary campus if approved, won't be the last such proposal for this bedroom community.

A two-story building already exists at Washington High School, and, while it's not run by the Fremont school district, the Mission Valley Regional Occupational Program building on the Kennedy High campus is noticeable to drivers entering the city off Interstate 880 and Stevenson Boulevard.

In the case of Warm Springs Elementary, the district could conceivably look at building only single-story classrooms — which would come with a smaller price tag — but the school would have to give up play area, said Therese Gain, the district's facilities director.

"As we get built out and run out of land, we'll be looking at (more multistories)," she said.

Major Fremont center may open in '09

2008-01-07T20:48:00.000-08:00

Pacific Commons and the Oakland A's Ballpark Village promise more shopping opportunities off Auto Mall Parkway. Just west of the Stevenson Boulevard interchange, construction continues on The Globe, an international-themed shopping and entertainment center.

"This will continue to help fill the retail void," Fremont Economic Development Director Daren Fields said of the Bayside project. A city survey performed about five years ago, he added, found that Fremont residents made $1.1 billion in annual purchases outside city limits.

Bayside Marketplace to include several big-box retailers, dozen small shops

A major shopping center planned for Fremont's southern limit, just west of Interstate 880, could be completed by the end of next year, city officials said.

The 49-acre Bayside Marketplace would include several big box retailers, about a dozen smaller shops and 1,993 parking spaces just north of Dixon Landing Road.

As part of an agreement with the city, property owners King & Lyons also would extend Fremont Boulevard south from Lakeview Boulevard to Dixon Landing Road.

The owners also have agreed to dedicate about 100 acres west of the project site to the Don Edwards wildlife refuge and provide an easement for the Bay Trail to run through the property.

The project originally was proposed as an industrial park, but developers changed it to retail last year as the market for industrial space continued to slump.

Bayside Marketplace is Fremont's latest effort in a drive to boost sales tax revenues by encouraging construction of a regional shopping center near I-880 interchanges.

"This will continue to help fill the retail void," Fremont Economic Development Director Daren Fields said of the Bayside project. A city survey performed about five years ago, he added, found
that Fremont residents made $1.1 billion in annual purchases outside city limits.

With 1978's Proposition 13 limiting cities' ability to generate property tax revenues, sales taxes have become a vital revenue source.

Last fiscal year, Fremont took in $34.2 million in sales tax revenues,which amounted to nearly 30 percent of total revenues, according to a recent city budget report.

Sales tax revenues, mostly from retail purchases, have increased by an average of $1 million each of the last five years as shopping centers have been constructed and renovated, Fields said.

As the market for office and industrial space remains sluggish, Bayside Marketplace is one of several Fremont projects to switch from industrial or office space to retail or housing.

The A's ballpark village was originally slated for a Cisco campus and a planned retail and residential development in central Fremont originally was supposed to include office space.

Although business and industrial parks typically don't generate as much revenue as chain retailers, they do provide high-paying jobs for residents who don't want long commutes.

Despite the push for retail, Fields said Fremont still has plenty of room for other types of businesses. The city has about 2 million square feet of vacant industrial and office space, which Fields estimated will take about 10 years to fill.

As for the proposed Bayside Marketplace, preliminary plans include three as-yet-unnamed anchor tenants and just under 500,000 square feet of total retail space — about 100,000 square feet less than The Fremont Hub.

The extension of Fremont Boulevard will include bridges over a flood control channel and Scott Creek, which will run through the shopping center.

An environmental review of the project is expected to take about a year, Fields said, and construction could begin in early 2009.

Ethnic: Asian 2000 and 2005

2008-01-05T11:02:00.001-08:00

2000
City of Fremont

White	84,149	41.37%
Asian	74,773	36.76%
Hispanic or Latino (of any race)	27,409	13.47%
Black or African American	6,084	2.99%
Two or more races	9,053	4.45%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander	736	0.36%
American Indian and Alaska Native	656	0.32%
Some other race	553	0.27%

Source: 2000 U.S. Census

City of Dublin

White	Black	Hispanic	American Indian	Asian	Pacific Islander	Other
62.30%	10%	13.50%	0.50%	10.20%	0.30%	3.20%

Shawn Kim, chief operating officer for the Fremont-based developer, said the project was a unique opportunity for Dublin and would be a regional draw.

But, said Mayor Janet Lockhart, "We felt it was an interesting project, but in the wrong place."

Tri-City

City of Newark

Asian

9,047

21.3%

City of Union City

Caucasian: 30.2%
Hispanic: 24.0%
Asian/Pacific Islander: 43.4%
African American: 6.7%
American Indian, Eskimo, or Aleut: 0.5%

City of Milpitas

Asian

32,482

51.8%

City of Cupertino

Asian

22,462

44.4%

2000
1) Milpitas
2) Cupertino
3) Union City
4) Fremont
5) San Jose
5) Newark
6) Dublin

2005
1) Fremont 104,800 49.8%
2) Union City 30,147 46.2%

Rowland Plaza

2008-01-04T19:52:00.000-08:00

This a Asian-Themed Shopping Plaza that includes a 300,000 Square Foot Three-Story Plaza in the Pacific Commons.

More info:
D:\Documents and Settings\Brian\My Documents\RowlandPlazaFremont.pdf
(Copy and Paste) April 22, 2006

This project is not available and this project where they planned to build new Cisco Field. Catellus Development Corp has filled the speculative portion of the first phase of its planned 8.3 million-square-foot Pacific Commons technology business park in Fremont.

This project hasn't filed a proposal application for the Rowland Plaza.

370 Dessert Cafe

2008-01-01T20:30:00.000-08:00

370 Dessert Cafe will open January 3, 2008. Pacific Commons

They have two locations one is in Fremont another is in
San Francisco

100% Healthy Dessert ($)
View the Menu	Click to Review

1155 Taraval St		Food:	9.5
San Francisco, CA 94116		Service:	9.0
(415) 556-3887 (Phone)		Value:	7.0
		Atmosphere:	8.5

King & Lyons Moving Forward

2007-12-28T17:29:00.000-08:00

Where it is: Northwest corner of Dixon Landing Road and
Interstate 880 in Fremont, near the Newby Island Compost 
Facility
What it was: Vacant land.

What's going on: Barbara Meerjans, a Fremont senior
planner, said landowner King & Lyons' original plan to
build a business park across about 45 acres has changed.
In September, the developers filed a proposal for a
490,000-square-foot retail project. "We are in the early
stages of beginning the environmental impact report for
this proposed development," she said.
The plan calls for extending Fremont Boulevard from where
it ends south of Lakeview Boulevard to Dixon Landing Road.
Meerjans said the developers already have approvals to grade
and develop the site, of which 100 acres was donated to
the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge
to be restored as wetlands.When it is: The project will go to the Planning Commission
for consideration,likely in 2008.

Similar to: Pacific Commons.

Part 2, 3, and 4 Housing/Mixed-use, Recreation, and Fremont

2007-12-22T16:28:00.000-08:00

1. Should the City of Fremont build more Mixed-use Development or more Multi-family homes?
More Mixed-use Development 63.6% 7
More Multi-family homes 36.4% 4
The winner is: More Mixed-use Development

2. What type of housing do you want in the City Of Fremont?
Condo 20.0% 2
Apartment 30.0% 3
Townhouse 60.0% 6
Multi-family 60.0% 6

The Winner is: Townhouse and Multi-family

1. What type of Park do you visit beside Fremont and California? Tell what you enjoys their park. Should they have in Fremont? Please describe their park and are they beautiful?

1. None. We only visit other areas to fish.
2. Coyote Hills Park. A natural Wild Life habitate with Foxes, Egrets, Swamp Hawkes. The City of Fremont is allowing development of the Coyote Hills Natural Area. The process has just started, there is still time to STOP IT. http://www.protectcoyotehills.org/vision.htm
3. state parks wilderness
4. none
5. Boston, they are clean, quiet, grass, no playground, clean lake, and go for walking. Band pavilions during 8-10 p.m. nighttime
6. Water Park
7. Newark's Aquatic Center, Not necessary but already in the works. dog park in North Fremont would be nice. We use the one in Union City - its well done.
8. Fremont has enough parks.

2. What are you Concern of Recreation in City Of Fremont? What kind of Recreation do you want in Fremont?
1. Don't use the recreation programs.
2. Please, no more ballparks that are rarely used. More passive parks, Naturalist parks
3. bike riding,hiking
4. it's lousy
5. Clean the Ducks poops, more light for night walk for Lake Elizabeth, and Water Park Expansion instead of 7 acres, but more acres 7 or more.
6. ball field

3. Should they build Water Park in Fremont? Not available

1. What should the City turn into?
Urban 41.7% 5
Suburban 33.3% 4
Small feel Town 25.0% 3
The winner is: Urban

Fremont Future Part 1 (Retail)

2007-12-22T11:53:00.000-08:00

1. Do you want more retail in Fremont?
Yes, we need more Retail 50.0% 6
No Need 50.0% 6

The response is: Tie

2. What kind of Retail should the City of Fremont build?
Shopping Mall 44.4% 4
Mixed-use 66.7% 6
Shopping Center(Pacific Commons) 33.3% 3

The winner is: Mixed-use

3. Which one is most important in Fremont? (3 Most important, 2 important, 1 Not important)

Nordstrom 66.7% (8)
Bloomingdales 63.6% (7)
Mall 63.6% (7) Higher-end Retail 63.6% (7)
Cheap Store 2.7% (8)
Apparel 50.0% (6)

Everyone response: 1 Not important

4. What kind of store should they have in Fremont? (Banana Republic, Gap, American Eagle Outfitters, and etc). What type of department store should they have in Fremont? (Sears, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Macys, etc). List as many as you want.

1. More high end like Banana Republic
2. birkenstock
3. more independent retailers of all sorts.
4. None that I can think of right now
5. Whole Foods
6. outfitters Kmart
7. big and tall
8. Any Retail from the mall any upscale retail.
9. Nordstrom, Banana Republic, American Eagle, PacSun
10. WHOLE FOODS

City faces budget shortfall

2007-12-20T20:36:00.000-08:00

With its finances teetering back into the red, city officials are implementing several measures to keep its budget balanced.

Slowing property and sales tax revenue is forcing the city to implement a selective hiring freeze, delay allocating $2 million toward the Downtown/Capitol Avenue redevelopment plan and institute accounting changes to keep money in its general fund.

Without the cost-saving measures, officials said, the city would have faced a budget shortfall this fiscal year and the loss of its entire $11.2 million rainy day reserve fund by the end of next fiscal year.

Despite the budget crunch, Fremont's finances still are in much better shape than during the dot-com bust when it eliminated more than 200 positions and cut a fifth of its budget, officials said.

The city has no plans to reinstitute rotating fire station brownouts, and already has filled 10 vacant firefighter positions and seven police officer positions. "I don't see any dramatic (service) changes," City Manager Fred Diaz said.

Police Chief Craig Steckler said he has been asked to trim his budget by

1 percent this year, which could force him not to fill police officer positions that become vacant.

Whether the city has to initiate more cuts could depend on the state, which, facing its own $14 billion shortfall, could choose to hold on to sales tax revenue usually passed along to cities.

The city's next budget update, which could include additional

cost-saving measures, is scheduled for February.

This year marks Fremont's second consecutive December budget surprise.

Last year, one month after voters rejected a utility tax ballot measure, city leaders announced an unexpected

$6 million windfall that was used in part to boost police and fire department staffing.

This year's news that revenue is lower than expected comes six months after the city approved new contracts with all its unions, including 6 percent pay raises this year and next year for police officers and firefighters.

Diaz said he has no regrets about employee raises, which accounted for $1.9 million in new expenditures this fiscal year.

"(The city) entered into (negotiations) with the best information we had at that time," he said.

Diaz attributed mistakes in recent budget forecasts to a "volatile" marketplace. "I've never seen an economy so hard to predict," he said.

Property and sales tax revenue increased last year, but not at the rate city officials had projected. Slumping revenue growth at the end of the last fiscal year left the city with $2.4 million less than anticipated, according to a city report.

Property tax revenue, which constitutes about one-third of city revenue, was slowed by fewer home sales, stagnant home prices and increased property tax delinquencies, officials said.

Much of the sales tax reductions were related to the slumping housing market, Fremont Finance Director Harriet Commons said. Sales tax revenue was down for appliances, home furnishings and construction supplies, she said.

If revenue had continued to slump without the cost-saving measures, she added, Fremont's operating budget deficit would have been $11.4 million this fiscal year and $6.7 million next year.

Several of the budget-balancing measures are accounting changes. The city is postponing the transfer of $2.8 million from its general fund to its risk management fund and is delaying the allocation of $2.3 million for retiree medical benefits, a major unfunded liability.

The delay in funding $2 million toward the Capitol Avenue development won't prevent the city and the developer from moving ahead with facets of the project, Diaz said.

City Council members were not sounding alarm bells about the budget crunch at a Tuesday workshop. "This is manageable," Mayor Bob Wasserman said comparing it to the dot-com bust. "And the right steps are being taken to match it."

New Restaurant Open Soon and Coming Soon

2007-12-03T15:23:00.001-08:00

Open Soon

370 Dessert will open January 1, 2008. Pacific Commons
Carino’s Italian Grill will open Monday, December 10, 2007
9 a.m. Pacific Commons

Coming Soon
Asian Pearl (Under Construction)Chinese Food, Dim Sum, and
Seafood Restaurant. Pacific Commons
French Bakery (No Construction)Unknown. 
Pacific Commons
Cyclo Cafe (Under Construction)Coffee, Snack, and Juice Bar. 
The Globe, Saigon Village, next to East West Bank
Federico's Cafe & Bistro (Under Construction) Unknown.
Downtown Fremont, next to Baskin Robbin

Council approves Mission project

2007-11-30T18:46:00.000-08:00

Acting against the wishes of a standing-room-only crowd, the City Council has approved a six-story development heralded as a gateway to Mission San Jose and suggested that Fremont's days of suburban sprawl development are coming to a close.

In a 4-1 vote taken after nearly two hours of public comment Tuesday night, the council approved a mix of 158 condominiums and retail shops on an undeveloped 12-acre parcel at Sabercat and Durham roads, just east of Interstate 680.

The project had galvanized neighbors — 600 people signed petitions against it — who argued that its buildings towered above the surrounding single-family homes; its location adjacent to an earthquake fault, power lines and underground gas pipes posed major safety hazards; and its 300 residents would exacerbate traffic congestion on Auto Mall Parkway.

Neighborhood opposition also was fierce last month when the Planning Commission rejectedthe project — a decision the council effectively overturned.

In siding with San Jose-based developer Michael Luu, council members cited the specter of global warming and projected state population growth to support their decision for taller, more densely populated developments, even near neighborhoods comprised of single-family homes.

"In the time that I've been in Fremont, the population has doubled — and it's going to double again, whether you like it or not," Mayor Bob Wasserman said. "Fremont is going to see

"In the time that I've been in Fremont, the population has doubled — and it's going to double again, whether you like it or not," Mayor Bob Wasserman said. "Fremont is going to see high-rises, it's going to see street cars — all the things we said we never wanted."

high-rises, it's going to see street cars — all the things we said we never wanted."

"The question in my mind," said Councilmember Bob Wieckowski, who brought up global warming, "is do we make a decision to move forward with something that has some benefit ... or do we continue with the standard development plan?"

Councilmember Anu Natarajan cast the dissenting vote. She said the project didn't fit the neighborhood and was too far from public transit to earn support on environmental grounds.

Opponents didn't rule out challenging the council's vote in court.

Most nearby residents would have supported a smaller development that, project opponent Ravi Pathman said, wouldn't have further clogged roads and strained city services.

"The council voted for development at any cost," Pathman said. "They want to be a big city and bring in the (Oakland) A's, but they can't provide basic services."

Luu said he was ready to work with neighbors on the project's retail component, which is slated to include a high-end grocery store.

"This project represents what the future of Mission San Jose will be," he said.

Luu hopes to break ground no later than this summer and expects the project to take about 18 months to complete.

The city approved a 105,000-square-foot shopping center for the site in 2000, but that project never moved forward.

Luu took control of the property three years ago and began work on the current plan, which will include a 55,334 square feet of commercial and retail space in four main structures on 12.2 acres, health club, 158 condos, a park and nearly 700 parking spaces. The four main structures would be 65 feet tall with a 20-foot tower on top, signifying a gateway to the Mission San Jose neighborhood.

City, schools continue talks about developer impacts

2007-11-29T15:13:00.001-08:00

In an effort to solve the puzzle of surging enrollment and fees that developers should pay to compensate for added students, Fremont City Council and Fremont Unified School District's Board of Education will begin discussing the situation at every quarterly joint meeting.

The two panels met Nov. 19 to finish a previous discussion cut short at a joint meeting on May 27.

At that meeting, the district presented several options to balance student enrollment at all of its campuses.

Options included redistricting school attendance boundaries, setting up new classrooms and facilities, eliminating class-size reduction or placing schools on multi track, year-round schedules.

In addition, the panels were supposed to discuss developer impact fees, but due to prior commitments, some board members claimed to have, discussions did not occur.

On Monday, school board members voiced concerns over plans for the Patterson Ranch development near the Coyote Hills, which had been presented to the city council Nov. 13.

Many board members said they were worried that when the development enters the construction phase, 800 homes proposed would be completed and filled well before any planned elementary school is built.

Boardmember Lara York was also concerned with the proposed distance of the school from the residential units.

Developers have proposed building the homes in the project all on the eastern side of Ardenwood Boulevard, while the school, parks and open space areas would be on the western side.

"We're trying to make elementary schools that are walkable for many students," York said. "We do have concerns with residential units on one side of Ardenwood and a school and churches on the other.

"We want to make sure that if residential can be built, so can a school," she added. "Having that assurance is important."

Board members reiterated that if homes were built before a school, students generated from the development would be forced to attend nearby schools like Forest Park Elementary School, which school officials say is already facing overcrowding.

The board said it did not want that to happen.

Boardmember Larry Sweeney noted the proposed footprint for the school in the Oakland Athletics' Ballpark Village plans. He said the team has proposed a four-acre site for the school.

However, Sweeney suggested four acres ideally weren't enough for an 800-student elementary school. He added many campuses in the district are at least seven acres in size to accommodate the school, play areas and parking.

Sweeney implored the city to work with the district in possibly convincing the A's to increase campus acreage.

"When it comes to school size and footprints, we ask the council to look at the school board as a full partner," he said. "If we don't get what we need at the beginning it will be a burden to the district, as well as the taxpayer."

Councilwoman Anu Natarajan suggested the district consider multi-story buildings on its campuses to combat the small footprint of the new school site.

School board President Nina Moore said the district was looking into that option for the A's ballpark village campus. She added the district would also install multi-story modular rooms at Warm Spring Elementary School because there is no room for students at that campus.

Vice Mayor Bob Wieckowski said developer impact fees are a main source of funding for school districts, and wanted to know if there was any other option to help with funding besides the district's proposed alternatives or a bond measure.

Wieckwoski recalled Proposition 13, which voters approved in 1978 to set limits to property taxes and to deny future increases. Property taxes are another funding source for school districts, and without increases, funding is the same each year.

"Maybe we need to start thinking about a bond measure," he said.

Moore responded by saying that a bond measure would not be beneficial to all district constituents.

"One challenge we face is that we are not overcrowded all over town," she said. "That's why we won't get all our voters to approve new buildings, because some of (the buildings) won't help them.

"We need to communicate with the city that a message needs to be given to developers that some areas in Fremont just have no room for more students," she added.

Both panels agreed that meeting quarterly instead of semi-annually to discuss the issue would help solve the problem more efficiently.

"As a result of quarterly meetings, I'd like to see a plan of action," Councilman Steve Cho said. "It's nice to get together and talk about (the problem), but we need to take action so we know we have the tools to deal with these issues."

Mayor Bob Wasserman said an option might be to go to the state level for advice.

"I think the next time we have a meeting on this topic, we should invite our local legislators," Wasserman said. "The best we can do is to keep going around in circles, and we don't have the means to solve this. If we want to solve this, we ought to ask those who have the means, and they're at the state level."

Development of Patterson Ranch advance

2007-11-19T19:33:00.000-08:00

The first step toward city approval for the Patterson Ranch development was completed during a Fremont City Council work session Tuesday.

After years of public input and debate over the site of the project, city council was presented with a project and a development agreement for the ranch.

City staff said a plan had been submitted, and is now considered complete for processing and review.

Likewise, the environmental review process for the project has also begun.

The council's Nov. 13 work session was to initiate an entitlement request for a Fremont General Plan amendment, a preliminary planned district rezoning, and a development agreement for approximately 101 acres of land east of Ardenwood Boulevard.

The project would include construction of 800 residential units, in six varying types, and 25,000 to 50,000 square feet of neighborhood commercial uses, reports state.

The residential units would occupy 83 acres of the site, in the northern end of the property, along with commercial space on 2 acres of the site.

Additionally, a 3.2-acre park public square would be incorporated as part of the planned district use. Private parks would be built, taking about 7.4 acres. The project would also include 5.6 acres of trails and connections.

About 10 acres would be set aside for two religious facilities as well.

The staff report indicates that the development agreement would allow for the project to be built over a 15-year period.

Interest in creating a project for the site began in 2004, and the Patterson family submitted an application in 2005.

After six months of community outreach, the family spent another eight months revising the project.

However, by November 2006, Measure K was placed on a ballot to keep a portion of the Patterson Ranch free of heavy development.

About 13,000 residents signed a petition last year to put the measure on the ballot, but the initiative was quashed by more than 65 percent of the vote in November.

Open space advocates aimed at keeping developers from building 1,276 housing units, and 20,000 square feet of commercial space on 520 acres west of Ardenwood Boulevard.

After the measure's defeat, the applicant decided to move forward on smaller projects, and keep the residential development on the eastern side of Ardenwood Boulevard.

The development will still be built just north of a vacant piece of land currently owned by Cargill Salt, and east of the Coyote Hills Regional Park.

The entire project site stretches from the Union City border to the Cargill-owned property, which is located along Route 84.

Scott Ruhland, a city planner, said Cargill has an industrial user lined up for the property, but that the company will not disclose who that might be. Adjacent to Cargill's property is the Dumbarton Quarry, which has ceased operations.

Ruhland said quarry operators are in the process of removing equipment and rock, and will turn the land over to the East Bay Regional Park District.

Currently, Ruhland said the project is in a scoping period, which will end Nov. 20. He added a draft environmental impact report for the project should be ready by February.

Many residents in attendance were pleased with the Patterson family's ability to listen to the concerns of the public. Residents also said they appreciated how the family revamped the project to meet those concerns.

Greg Simas, the pastor at Harvest House Church, said the new development could provide a new home for his congregation.

Josh Roder, another pastor with Morning Star Church, said the project has addressed both community and economic concerns.

"We feel the plan not only meets the rights of the owners, they've been very proactive in meeting the needs for the community," he said.

Newark resident Howard Harter and Union City resident Richard Stormo said the fields provided by the Patterson development would give Tri-City youth much needed, safer facilities to play on.

Despite strong community support early in the development stage, opponents still raised concerns over the project.

Dan Ondrasek, a member of the Friends of the Coyote Hills, had a number of questions for both the city and the applicant.

"Development is development is development," he said. "This doesn't belong west of Ardenwood. Why doesn't this combine parking? You're paving paradise and putting in not one, but six parking lots.

"You're putting schools on an island separated by six to eight lanes of traffic," he added. "Why is Fremont burdening Ardenwood residents with more high density housing? Why are Fremont residents resigned to accept this?"

Resident Ann Rice said many of the amenities, such as the fields and the schools were inappropriately placed. She said placing playing fields in the middle of an open space area breaks the project into divisions.

"This also puts a community park way out on the periphery of Fremont, where people have to drive a long way to get to it," Rice said. "There must be a better place for (the park)."

Rice also noted there was no written guarantee in the plans that land would ever be donated to the city. In Ruhland's presentation, he claimed Fremont Unified School District was planning an elementary school and a junior high school for the site.

Rice also pointed out the district was only preparing for an elementary school there.

Other concerns came from the Ohlone elders. Carmen Saldovar, speaking on behalf of the elders, asked if discussion with them had taken place, as required by law.

"This land is Ohlone land," she said. "If you're going to give back some of it, why not give it back to the Ohlone? (Parts of the site) were not just part of the Ohlone village. They were the Ohlone village. Families want to know how this is all being handled."

Council members said they too were pleased with the applicant listening to the community.

"The biggest thing we've seen here is that development has moved to the east side of Ardenwood, and that's very important," Councilwoman Anu Natarajan said.

Mayor Bob Wasserman addressed the concern over a possible junior high school on the development.

"I know the applicant said there would be an elementary school," Wasserman said. "But I thought if a junior high isn't built, something should be written that says the space should go back to us."

Planner Ruhland said the project is now in the normal review process, and he maintained it will be presented at future Fremont Planning Commission and city council meetings.

EMC releases VERY encouraging poll results in regard to the A's project!

2007-11-17T08:40:00.001-08:00

A's have been working very hard this past year to reach out to the community for feedback in regard to the A's proposed Cisco Field/Ballpark Village proposal. I am very proud of the efforts I have seen the A's go to in an effort to reach out to the community and to make people aware of their project. The A's even went as far as to hire, EMC Research, to poll citizens of Fremont to see if the A's have been focusing on the concerns and issues that are most important to the citizens of Fremont.

I am attaching the press release , so you can review the poll results for yourself. I am sure you will be just as encouraged as the A's were when they first saw the results.

We support for the A's effort to build the most State of the Art facility in all of Major League Baseball, right here in Fremont!

Go A's

P.S. Make sure to tell all of your friends that share your same desire to support the A's to sign up for our A's To Fremont Support Group online at www.AsToFremont.com

For more info on A's Public Opinion Presentation go online at www.emcresearch.com

MEMO
To: Lew Wolff, Keith Wolff, Michael Crowley
From: Alex Evans, Tom Patras
Re: Fremont Research
Date: October 17, 2007

EMC Research, Inc., recently conducted a telephone survey in Fremont, California.
Outlined below are some of the results and key findings from this study.

Key Findings
A strong majority support the A’s ballpark village project. When asked whether they
support or oppose the construction of a new baseball village within Fremont, 62% say
they support the project, compared to 34% who are opposed; only 4% are undecided.
Awareness of the project is extremely high, with nearly all (98%) having heard
something in the news recently about the project.

Considering nearly everyone has heard of the project, and only 4% are undecided, it is
particularly encouraging that 62% are in support of the project today. People have heard
of it and most of them like what they hear.

Fremont, along with supporting the project, has a strongly favorable opinion of the
Oakland Athletics baseball organization. When asked if they have a favorable or
unfavorable opinion of the A’s, 69% say they have a favorable opinion of the A’s,
compared to 18% who have an unfavorable opinion of the organization.

The job creation and revenue generating aspects of the ballpark project are
important to people in Fremont. When told the project would create hundreds of local
jobs, 73% indicate they are more likely to support the project. Similarly, when told the
project will generate revenue for Fremont city services, 72% say they are more likely to
support the project.

The construction of a new elementary school is another popular component of the
project. When asked to rate “a brand new, technologically-advanced elementary school”
on a 1 to 7 importance scale, 69% rated it as a 5 or higher.

Fremont places high importance on the potential transit connectivity of the project.
Respondents were asked to rate certain components of the project on a 1 to 7 importance
scale. Seventy-four (74%) rated the potential for transit options, “including connection to
BART, CalTrain, and ACE Train service,” as a 5 or higher, including 53% who rated it a
7.

Conclusion
The research suggests that the Oakland A’s project is popular in Fremont. By and large,
people like what they have heard about the project so far and generally believe it would
be a good thing for Fremont.

People like the many positive aspects that the project brings to Fremont, including: job
creation; generating revenue for the city; a new state-of-the-art elementary school; new
parks and landscaped open spaces; and potentially expanded transportation options.

Methodology

The sample for this survey consisted of 400 registered voters in the City of Fremont,
California. A pre-test of the survey was conducted with 25 voters on September 24,
2007. The remaining interviews were conducted September 25 through September 27.
The overall margin of error for this study is +/- 4.9%.

Third poll results

2007-11-10T16:44:00.000-08:00

Voting for the third is now closed. Here are the results:

A. Westfield Mall ( Valley Fair) - 3 (50%)
B. General Growth ( Newpark Mall) - 0 (0%)
C. Mixed-use development - 3 (50%)
D. 1 stories Shopping Center - 0 (0%)
E. 2 stories Shopping Center - 3 (20%)
F. Entertainment Center - 3 (0%)
G. None - 0 (0%)

The winner is Westfield Mall ( Valley Fair) and 2 level Shopping Center/mall.
People want is Mixed-use development. Finally people want is Entertainment Center.

The next poll topic is What do you want the City of Fremont turned into?

The question:

What kind of shopping center, should they build in Fremont?

A. Westfield Mall ( Valley Fair)
B. General Growth ( Newpark Mall)
C. Mixed-use development
D. 1 stories Shopping Center
E. 2 stories Shopping Center
F. Entertainment Center
G. None

If you like, you can post a comment here to go with your vote

A's submit ballpark application to Fremont. What's next?

2007-11-10T16:29:00.000-08:00

Almost a year to the day that the Oakland Athletics publicly announced plans to move their baseball team to Fremont, team officials submitted a formal application Thursday to build a stadium with a surrounding neighborhood of retail stores and housing.

The "Ballpark Village" would be sit just west of the Pacific Commons shopping center, near Interstate 880 and Auto Mall Parkway. The stadium, with just 32,000 seats, would be the smallest of the 30 Major League Baseball parks. Retail stores - including restaurants and a hotel - adjacent to the stadium would be open both during game times and non-game times. The mixed-use area also would include apartments built on top of the stores.

A's officials say they hope to have the stadium ready for the 2011 baseball season.

Village would create a brand new neighborhood

Approximately 3,000 lofts, apartments, and homes eventually will be built in the complex, with most of the housing in areas south and west of the stadium. The residential area of the Ballpark Village also would include a new elementary school and several small parks.

In previous discussions, A's officials proposed an "urban-style", multi-story school that would sit on just four acres - about a quarter of the footprint of many suburban schools. Fremont Unified School District trustees recently said they would prefer a more traditional suburban design for the school. In their proposed plan, A's officials say they will work with the city and school district to arrive at a "mutually agreeable size and location" for the new school.

How would those who live and work in Fremont be affected?

At their November 27 meeting, City Council members are expected to approve the hiring of a consultant to perform an environmental study of the planned Ballpark Village. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires that the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) be completed before construction can begin.

The study will address possible impacts of the project to surrounding communities as well as to wildlife and natural resources where the complex would be built. The study also includes possible ways to mitigate problems that it identifies.

The EIR process is expected to take about a year and a half to complete, Fremont Economic Development Director Darren Fields said. Before it can begin, the public will be invited to a "scoping session", where they will be able to request specific issues they would like the EIR to address. The public also will have the opportunity to review and comment on a draft version of the report once it is completed. Those comments, as well as responses to them, become part of the final report that the City Council must approve at a public as part of the approval process.

Traffic

With 81 regular-season home games, each attracting tens of thousands of spectators, it should come as no surprise that the most talked-about impact is traffic.

A's officials say they will encourage the use of public transportation, running shuttle buses from the Fremont BART station four miles from the stadium and the Milpitas light rail station seven miles south of the stadium. The BART shuttle will move to the new station in the Warm Springs district - about 1-1/2 miles from the stadium - once that opens.

A's officials say they also hope that the Altamont Commuter Express (ACE) and Capitol Corridor rail services will build a new station at the northwest corner of the complex. That land is owned by Fremont's Redevelopment Agency.

Those who drive will be able to take one of three exits from Interstate 880 to get to the stadium. Each of the exits (Cushing Parkway, Auto Mall Parkway, and Stevenson Boulevard) would lead to a separate parking area, distributing traffic to and from the stadium. Team officials say the shops and restaurants also would help relieve congestion, as some spectators would arrive early and leave late to eat and shop.

The business end

City officials also will be discussing the financial aspects of the project with the A's management. The private negotiations will include any incentives sought by the A's, as well as an analysis of potential benefits to Fremont. Once the two parties reach agreement, the terms of the deal will be presented to the City Council at a public hearing.

Heading home

With the EIR and financial arrangements complete, the plan for the stadium and surrounding development will be discussed by the Planning Commission at a public meeting. If the city's planning commissioners approve the project, it will be sent to the City Council for final approval. The public will have the opportunity to express their views at each of these meetings.

Included with the A's formal application was a check for $700,000 to pay for the environmental study. The team also will pay for the experts in Major League Baseball and stadium deals who will represent Fremont in the business negotiations with the A's. Though arguably the most significant development in Fremont's 50-year history, Fields said Fremont is handling the project just like it would any other.

"Any developer pays for their application. If you want to build in Fremont, the general public doesn't pay," Fields said.

For more information...

Click here to read the development application submitted by the A's.

Pacific Commons Update

2007-10-30T17:31:00.000-07:00

Now Open:
Spicy Town ( October 28, 2007)

Coming Soon:
370 Dessert Cafe ( Open 1-3 weeks)
French Bakery ( Under Construction on October)

Coming Soon ( Not Construction Yet)
Asian Pearl

Unknown Stores:
Infinitel ( Verizon Wireless Store)

Applebees ( Construction September)

Johnny Carino's Italian ( Open Soon)

Second poll results

2007-10-24T23:05:00.000-07:00

Sorry for delays

Voting for the first poll is now closed. Here are the results:

A. Yes - 3 (60%)
B. No - 2 (40%)
C. Next week - 0 (0%)
D. 2 Weeks - 2 (40%)
E. 3 Weeks - 1 (20%)
F. 4 Weeks - 0 (0%)
G. Next Month - 0 (0%)
H. Never - 1 (20%)

The winner is A and D and the failed is B and G.

The next poll topic is What kind of shopping center, should they build in Fremont?

The question: Are Oakland A's really moving to Fremont? What when will the files the Application?

A. Yes
B. No
C. Next week
D. 2 Weeks
E. 3 Weeks
F. 4 Weeks
G. Next Month
H. Never

If you like, you can post a comment here to go with your vote.

A's Wolff begins to show he's frustrated

2007-10-23T22:44:00.000-07:00

When it comes to ballpark village building, one has to endure a whole litany of nightmares to realize the actual dream, and the strain of that is starting to show on Lew Wolff's face and in his statements.

That's because the process of moving the Oakland Athletics to Fremont is now beyond the conceptual stage and entering the tougher, trickier reality phase — getting all the preliminary ducks in a row under the slow crush of governmental approval at both the state and local levels before a shovel can ever move a single pebble.

On top of all that, the Oakland A's owner must continue to answer questions about why the A's really have to move out of Oakland and why the proposed Fremont site, with all of its potential access and traffic issues, ultimately will be much better. It's the ultimate test of a gentle man's patience, and the cracks are showing.

Quite frankly, it's tough to understand why Wolff, a man in his 70s, wants to do this. OK, sure, he and his son Keith and billionaire partner John Fisher will make a nice profit on the business venture itself. There will be altruistic rewards as well, even though many A's fans are skeptical these businessmen are doing this for an improved quality of life in the Bay Area.

But, Wolff readily admitted in a wide-ranging address and Q&A session at the Commonwealth Club on Monday night that realizing the vision of Cisco Field is at least four years away and probably five, and that he may be too old and exhausted by the pursuit to actually enjoy much of it himself if it ever gets built by 2012 or 2013.

And it may not. Wolff said he hopes he'll be able to pronounce this venture a done deal within the next 12-18 months,but the A's aren't there yet, either. Things are moving slowly, and if that isn't enough of a headache for Wolff, he and his partners are trying to juggle the approval and construction of a San Jose soccer venue in concert with the baseball extravaganza.

Wolff is about as optimistic and humorous a businessman as you're ever going to meet, but some of his comments in this informal session hinted at his level of frustration right now. The next step in the process, for example.

"Within a couple of weeks, we will be submitting a development application which initiates the environmental impact report, which initiates a lot of spiral-down reports and paper," he said. "More trees have been knocked down by environmental impact studies than developers. There are steps within steps. But we're going to follow them. We have no choice."

That particular process could take a year to 18 months. Wolff clearly isn't looking forward to the snail pace of it.

"We're going to do everything on our end to move it as fast as we can, but the process to a lot of people is the end process," he said. "A lot of people live on the process. It gripes the heck out of me."

Does that sound just a little short to you? His tone was a little more curt on this evening than I've ever heard him. Host Marty Lurie tossed him questions from the audience of approximately 100, and near the end of the session, he received one of the familiar ones about how the move to Fremont could destroy the 40-year tradition that's been built in Oakland.

His answer sounded like a man getting real tired of the question.

"We're still here, folks," he said. "We're not moving to Timbuktu. We're going to be down the street in a beautiful new facility. Anybody in this room that came out to the Coliseum, please try me one day, and I'll show you how lovely it may have been in Oakland once. But it's not really great for us right now. I wish it were."

Wolff is getting very touchy about the Fremont venue's transportation and access issues as well. When Lurie phrased a question about the A's moving to one of the Bay Area's worst traffic bottlenecks, he shot back, "We think we're moving from one of the worst bottlenecks. I just don't accept it as one of the worst bottlenecks. It's one of the many bottlenecks, but the improvement of that area is under way right now."

Regarding possible ticket pricing at the new park, Wolff offered a funny but not very satisfying answer for the average A's fan: "Very easy question. It'll be a little bit less than the Giants."

In another uncomfortable moment, Wolff uttered what might be interpreted as an ethnic putdown when discussing why the A's haven't done much exploration and development in the Asian player market.

"First of all, Asian players, probably if you asked them — and could understand them — they would like to stay on the West Coast," he said. "But the money that's being spent by the Yankees and Boston, they're having to make the extra five-hour flight."

Understand them? Wolff might be hearing about that one, since his address was broadcast over radio. A statement like that doesn't play well orally or in print.

Alas, that's the tough part of trying to sell such a grand vision. Anything you say can be dissected. Fact is, you can slip and say the wrong thing easily.

Undaunted, Wolff forges ahead with the selling of this grand ballpark, even as the push starts to get tougher. Tough to envy his challenge.

Development Application and Two new sites

2007-10-15T19:50:00.000-07:00

Fremont officials have been grumbling louder in recent weeks about the A's delays in getting the development application in. They've expressed this frustration to any media person who asks. I don't know if it will get the app in more quickly. The City and the A's have remained professional and cordial throughout.

In today's East Bay Business Times article by David Goll, Lew Wolff admits that the team's in "the tortoise phase":

Wolff himself admits he's in "the tortoise phase" of his plan, anticipating up to 18 months for the city's planning and review process to unfold once he submits a formal proposal. He also foresees spending $20 million to $30 million for a detailed design for the entire development and, assuming the Fremont City Council gives his plans a green light, about two years for construction of the stadium.

Fremont's economic development director Daren Fields gave his opinion on when he thinks the ballpark could open: 2012. I think it can still happen in 2011, but if the application isn't submitted in the next few weeks an April 2011 opening date could certainly be in jeopardy.

Two new sites

Last week two new websites came online for those interested in A's new ballpark news. First up is the A's to Fremont Support Group. Currently the only page is a mailing list signup form for interested parties, but this is sure to expand fairly quickly. I am not involved with this particular site as I was with the dormant "Bring the A's to Fremont" site. That also is subject to change. For now I am replacing the dormant site with the new one on the sidebar.

Next up is MLB's Ballparks of the Future site, presented by Cisco. It has a video showing Cisco's vision of the future plus videos for all five in-development ballparks as well as additional galleries for other new and to-be-renovated venues. Check out the Nationals' stadium tour video to get a glimpse of how crazy the premium seating market has become.

First poll results

2007-10-15T19:49:00.000-07:00

Voting for the first poll is now closed. Here are the results:

A. Chinese (Taiwan) - 0 (0%)
B. English - 4 (33%)
C. Chinese/English - 2 (33%)

The winner is B and the failed is A. C is almost close to win and we need 2-3 people to vote on C

The next poll topic is Are Oakland A's really moving to Fremont? What when will the files the Application, so they can have 18 months for the city's planning and review process to unfold.

The question: What kind of Language do you want to have in the Blog?

A. Chinese (Taiwan)
B. English
C. Chinese/English

If you like, you can post a comment here to go with your vote.

No easy solutions in BART plan

2007-10-14T14:25:00.000-07:00

Transit officials, NUMMI discourage housing as Fremont deliberates Warm Springs development

When it comes to finding funding for the Warm Springs BART extension, the type of development around the proposed station is almost as important as the station itself, transportation officials say.

Whether it's apartment towers or, more likely in the case of Warm Springs, four-story office buildings, transit agencies want new stations surrounded by developments that will generate lots of ridership.

The Warm Springs project, which already has a $200 million funding gap, is more likely to qualify for discretionary transportation dollars if the city approves uses that are compatible with transit-oriented development, MTC spokesman John Goodwin said.

But that's easier said than done for Fremont.

Although the city's preliminary plan for the station area calls for transit-friendly uses, its zoning ordinance still allows property owners to build storage warehouses, business condominiums and other uses that wouldn't generate many BART passengers.

Just last month, the City Council declined to block a mini-storage warehouse proposed within a half-mile of the station.

And before Fremont can change the zoning, it needs tofind about $200,000 for an environmental study.

The BART station tentatively is scheduled to open in 2013 on land bounded by South Grimmer Road and Warm Springs Boulevard.

To assert more control over development in the station area, the council voted unanimously last week to consider new rules making it less desirable for property owners within a half-mile of the proposed station to subdivide their land and sell it for condos.

New industrial condominium projects are increasingly popular, Fremont Planning Director Jeff Schwob said. Allowing them near the proposed BART station, he added, could increase the number of landowners, hampering efforts to build transit-friendly developments.

NUMMI flexes muscles

When a new BART station is built these days, high-density apartment buildings usually aren't far behind.

But in the case of Warm Springs, an MTC report, citing opposition from the nearby New United Motor Manufacturing Inc., anticipated no new housing in the station district.

"NUMMI has strongly advised against the development of housing in industrial areas," company spokesman Lance Tomasu said. The plant, he added, generates traffic, noise and odors "not conducive to residential development."

The auto manufacturer doesn't control city zoning rules, but with more than 5,000 employees, it has clout at City Hall.

"We don't want to lose them," Councilmember Steve Cho said after a recent council meeting.

Landowners stuck

With housing a non-starter for now, David Beretta, a prominent Fremont developer, said city planners have suggested he build offices, even though the office market is poor. The city, he added, opposed his proposals for a swimming school, retail center or apartments on his parcel.

"We tried every use that we could; the city rejected it each time," Beretta said.

None of Beretta's proposals was permitted under current zoning, Schwob countered.

When he proposed a mini-storage warehouse for the Prune Street lot, city staff members responded by recommending that the City Council approve an emergency ordinance giving the city more ability to reject such projects.

The council rejected the emergency ordinance on grounds that it could be an appropriate interim use for the land, but later approved clamping down on business condominiums.

Meanwhile, Warm Springs BART remains a waiting game for developers like Jack Balch, who owns 8 acres near the proposed station. He is looking into interim uses for his site, so long as he doesn't have to pay for improvements such as curb gutters.

"I bought the land thinking BART would be here by now," Balch said. "We want to hold this land for a higher and better use."

A's present school plans to Fremont School District Wed. 10/10/07 6:30 p.m.

2007-10-09T18:59:00.000-07:00

Award Winning Horace Mann Elementary campus in San Jose.

A's co-owner, Keith Wolff, will be presenting the latest plans for an exciting new proposed school that will be built as part of the Cisco Field/Ballpark Village project this Wednesday, October 10, 2007 at 6:30 p.m. at the Fremont City Council Chambers located at 3300 Capitol Avenue, Fremont, CA at 6:30 p.m.

The new school will be an urban-style school which would cover less acreage, much like the award winning Horace Mann Elementary campus in San Jose. The Horace Mann Elementary boasts an outstanding facility, from an architectural and educational standpoint. The school would also be designed to allow the campus to be expanded if needed. This is just one more exciting aspect and benefit of having the A's in Fremont!

It would be great if you could have a nice showing of support and some volunteers to speak in favor of the project after the presentation. We want to show the FUSD Board that we support this effort and want to see the A's come to Fremont!

Go A's!

A's to present latest school plans to district

Proposal calls for multistory urban-style campus in Fremont

Instead of the typical single-story elementary school campus spread over 8 to 10 acres, as often is found in the suburbs, Oakland A's officials envision a multistory "urban" school to become part of its proposed ballpark village.

An urban-style school would cover less acreage, with classrooms built atop one another.

Last month, the A's proposed a

4-acre site for the school. On Monday, team co-owner Keith Wolff said the ballclub is considering a two- or three-story school and is looking at the Horace Mann Elementary campus in San Jose as a model.

Schools Superintendent Doug Gephart, who has visited the San Jose campus, said the school boasted an outstanding facility, from an architectural and educational standpoint. However, its playground was smaller than desired, he said, adding that A's officials are aware of the district's wish for more play space.

The proposed ballpark village, near Interstate 880 and Auto Mall Parkway, would feature a 32,000-seat stadium and a mix of retail shops, offices and residences.

Some of the residences would be three to four stories high.

Because of the greater housing density, the neighborhood could generate anywhere from 600 to 1,000 new students, Gephart said. The key, he added, is to design a campus with the flexibility to expand if necessary.

The A's latest plans, with the focus on the school, will be presented at Wednesday's school board meeting.

In preliminary designs earlier this year, an elementary school had been penciled to go up near Tri-Cities Landfill at the end of Auto Mall Parkway. But some Fremont residents objected to the location.

Now, the plan is to place a school east of Cushing Parkway, "in the heart of the residential development," Wolff said.

"To provide a K-6 school that serves the need of the population generated by our project ... that's still our commitment to the city," he said.

Developer chosen for Centerville Unified site

2007-10-08T15:17:00.000-07:00

Another developer has been chosen to revitalize 6.6 acres in the Centerville Unified Redevelopment Area.

Fremont City Council, acting as the Redevelopment Agency Board, selected Danville-based Blake Hunt Ventures by a vote of 3-2 at the Oct. 2 Redevelopment Agency meeting.

Vice Mayor Bob Wieckowski and Councilmember Anu Natarajan dissented, voting in favor of the team of Phoenix-based Opus West and San Mateo-based Regis Homes.

In the planning stages since April 2000, the site has had three different projects proposed by two developers.

All three projects failed to move forward for different reasons.

A grocery-anchored shopping center lost steam when the proposed grocery store for the project pulled out, and developers were unable to find a suitable replacement.

A restaurant-anchored, vertical mixed-use project dubbed Centerville Market Place fell through due to escalating construction costs and financial infeasibility.

The developers of that project returned with a 100-percent retail center, once again named Centerville Market Place.

However, by the end of last year, rising construction costs once again blocked progress on the site.

The site is bounded by Fremont Boulevard, Bonde Way, Post Street and Thornton Avenue.

According to city staff reports, the RDA Board authorized a request for qualifications for the site on June 26.

Six development teams submitted qualifications by the Aug. 16 deadline for the site.

The applicants were then narrowed down to three development teams, which were invited to an interview to present qualifications and a vision for the site.

Staff reports state the interview panel consisted of five city staff members, three consultants and two representatives of the Centerville community.

For the site, Blake Hunt Ventures proposed two projects, one of which included a 57,000-square-foot mixed-use retail and residential project that included a 20,000-square-foot grocery store and a 16,000-square-foot secondary anchor store, possibly a drug store.

Additionally, the firm proposed another 21,000 square feet of various retail and restaurant space.

There would be 44 to 48 residential units in six buildings on the south end of the property between Fremont Boulevard and Post Street.

There would be 245 parking spaces for retail.

Blake Hunt Ventures also proposed a 99,200-square-foot retail-only project that included a 45,000-square-foot grocery store.

A drug store or secondary anchor store would again be 16,000 square feet, and there would be an additional 38,200 square feet of additional retail and restaurants.

There would be 427 parking spaces in the project.

Brad Blake, chief executive officer of Blake Hunt Ventures, said his firm believed the Centerville community was looking for a strong sense of identity and place, and that a retail project would bring that to the area.

"We really think this should be a 100 percent retail project," he said. "If there should be some residential, we look at it as infill and don't want it to be the Ôdriver' of the project."

Blake added he believed as many as three grocery stores were interested in taking up residency on the site.

The team of Opus West and Regis Homes proposed building 20,000 to 35,000 square feet of retail along Fremont Boulevard, with 170 residential units of rental housing in the interior and along the rear of the site near Post Street.

Units may also have been added as a second story above the retail, reports state, with as many as 200 units on the site.

As many as 500 parking spaces would have been built in two parking garages behind the retail buildings. The garages would have been two or three stories high, staff reports state.

John Eller, an architect with SB Architects, said the Opus/Regis project would have provided an attractive community gathering space.

"We expect to provide high-quality development along the frontage of the project," he said. "Addressing Fremont Boulevard as the focal point of the project is the key to this plan."

Natarajan said that while both presentations were very good, she favored the Opus West/Regis Home proposal, as it had residential units that could be filled.

She said other types of retail stores could move in without a grocery store and still be economically viable.

"We're looking for a project that's viable, not a pie in the sky proposal," she said. "We want something that can be a catalyst of the community. If you're looking at a grocery-anchored retail project and it doesn't happen, we don't have a plan B."

Councilmember Steve Cho said when this first project first came to light in 2000, the community expressed the desire for a grocery store on the site.

"I remember seven or eight years ago, the community came together and voiced what they wanted for that site: it was a grocery store," he said. "Without an anchor store, it's difficult to get other stores to come to the site and make it viable. I think having all retail there will bring economic vitality to the area."

A list of the business at The Globe

2007-09-29T06:12:00.000-07:00

A List of Restaurants at The Globe

Approximately 20 to 25 different kinds of restaurants. Some would be freestanding
pads, some could be smaller. Restaurants that were expected to locate in this center
were:

Jackie’s Kitchen (from Honolulu)
Anamadera (a high-end Vietnamese restaurant)
Indian Chi Café (a small facility)
Vietnam Dim Sum
International Culinary Arts
Roy’s
Straits Café (currently in Santana Row)
Amber’s (an Indian restaurant also in Santana Row)
GONG DE LIN XIAO NAN GUO LLC ( 40525 Albrae, Fremont, CA 94538) ( A former “Home Depot”, now a furniture store, is located on one of the parcels)

In conversations with many community leaders and
consulates, they seemed very supportive of this concept.

Hotel Boutique/Franchise

Property Description:
Looking for a Hotel Operator or Hotel Franchise to fill and operate 83 - 90 rooms in the Globe. Building Size: 85,000 sq ft, 3 stories total (1st story =15,000 sq ft, 2nd and 3rd =35,000 sq ft each)

As the first internationally-themed lifestyle center in the United States, The Globe will serve as the premier retail and entertainment destination in the Bay Area. It will not only attract visitors and acclaim regionally but also from across the nation and around the world. The concept of the Globe is to create an environment that is inclusive of the different cultures of the world and to express them through the design of the architecture as well as the types of products and services offered. The Globe will be a place where the commonalities of cultures are highlighted and differences appreciated; food and fashion being two prime facets. The Globe will target the middle to upper income echelons as its primary target market. The tenant composition will also be vital.

Location Description:
Will be situated at the E-Building (European Village) across from the Heart area and in the center of the Globe Mall.

Located in Fremont, California, the site area covers 47.24 acres or over 2 million sq. ft. with over 700,000 sq. ft. of gross leasable area (GLA) planned. The Globe is located in Silicon Valley adjacent to and west of the 880 Freeway south of Stevenson Blvd. The 880 Freeway extends along the East Bay from San Jose to Oakland connecting to these other high-volume freeways and highways - 101, 280, 580, 80, 92, 84, 8 and 237 - and running through the following cities - Los Gatos, Campbell, Santa Clara, San Jose, Milpitas, Fremont, Newark, Hayward, Union City, San Leandro, Alameda, and Oakland. The Globe's convenient location near the Dumbarton Bridge (84) will allow for easy access from cities across the San Francisco bay such as Palo Alto, Foster City, Belmont, San Carlos, Redwood City, Menlo Park, Woodside, Mountain View, and Los Altos Hills. The City of Fremont is currently the last stop in the South Bay for BART and the Globe plans to Serve the public transit commuters with its own customized BART shuttle, whose schedule will be coordinated with the BART system.
Additional Types: Retail Pad No. Stories: 3
Anchor
Theme/Festival Center

Planning Commission Meetings 01/12/06 SAIGON VILLAGE ARCHITECTURE

What types of businesses, other than restaurants, were anticipated to locate within
the Village?
Fashion retailers would be located along Fashion Boulevard within the project. It was
hoped that some retailers would reflect the cultures expressed in the architecture,
which would cater to the local market. A cinema was envisioned that would show
independent foreign films, rather than the “usual blockbuster films.”

Were there any plans for office-type businesses?
Most would be retail. The only office spaces would be used by the Village
management company and his firm.

Would there be any other types of office businesses?
No more than a total of 5,000 square feet, if any.

Would office space be allowed in this area?
Associate Planner Ruhland replied that this parcel was already zoned for High
Volume Retail and Commercial. The General Plan amendment would change the
land behind this parcel from General Industrial to High Volume Retail and typical
office use was not anticipated within High Volume Retail. Some service businesses,
i.e., real estate, banks, accounting would be allowed.

Was an eating establishment previously approved for this site?
Associate Planner Ruhland replied that there was no specific use identified in the
previous design of the building.

Were quite a few eating establishments planned?
As many as four different restaurants were being considered.

Did the applicant know of any actual businesses that were planning to occupy the
buildings? No leases had been signed, but there was a waiting list of interested restaurants.

Was this particular project near the sign that stated an Asian buffet was coming?
Yes, but it would be on a different parcel, altogether.

Would East-West Bank actually be located on the smaller pad, or was that shown for
the purposes of illustration?
Discussion had been held with East-West Bank, along with other banks.

Was the Golden Theater one and the same that was referenced as the performing
arts stage?
No. However, it was hoped that the theater would be used as a multifunctional
performing stage, as well.
Mr. Horn clarified that the performing venue that she was referring to would be an
outdoor performing plaza in the public space area.

Would parking be adequate, as other local Asian shopping centers seemed to lack
enough space.
All parking requirements would be met and they were working with their consultants
and Associate Planner Ruhland to make sure adequate parking would be available.

Planning Commission Meetings 01/26/06 The Globe
Where might the parking structure be located, if deemed necessary, and how many
stories would it be?
The parking structure would be located at the upper rear portion of the site between
the buildings and Encyclopedia Circle. At this time, it was anticipated that two stories

Where might the parking structure be located, if deemed necessary, and how many
stories would it be?
The parking structure would be located at the upper rear portion of the site between
the buildings and Encyclopedia Circle. At this time, it was anticipated that two stories
would be adequate.

How would these separate types of businesses contribute to ethnic integration?
Would only the Vietnamese, for instance, visit only the Vietnamese shops and
restaurants?
It was hoped that the entire community (regardless of nationality or race) would be
interested in going to the center to shop and eat.

How many restaurants were anticipated to locate in this center?
Approximately 20 to 25 different kinds of restaurants. Some would be freestanding
pads, some could be smaller. Restaurants that were expected to locate in this center
were: Jackie’s Kitchen (from Honolulu), Anamadera (a high-end Vietnamese
restaurant), Indian Chi Café (a small facility), Vietnam Dim Sum, International
Culinary Arts, Roy’s, Straits Café (currently in Santana Row) and Amber’s (an Indian
restaurant also in Santana Row). In conversations with many community leaders and
consulates, they seemed very supportive of this concept.

Was it anticipated that the same number of shops would be located in the center?
They expected an international market and a Chinese market would open business in
the center. It was hoped that boutiques that would sell, for example, wedding
dresses from another country, thus, eliminating a trip by the bride to her home
country to chose an appropriate dress. Rather than these kinds of businesses being
located in the typical “older shopping center,” they would have a location that was a
part of the culture of Fremont.

Was the applicant talking with individuals with the various ethnic backgrounds that
were to be represented in this project?
Yes, they were.

Would the shops be upscale and, for example, sell artifacts indigenous to a particular
country? What kinds of shops were expected to locate in the project?
Fred Kim stated that they expected to create a project that was fiscally sound. Each
cultural district would be customized to cater to the demographics of the city. Retail
demand was expected to be from middle to upper middle household incomes within
the city. They hoped to create a project that would reach out to all cultures.
Architectural inspiration had been taken from the source cultures, and they were
modified and contemporized for each building. Everyone they had spoken with
“loved, loved the idea.”

Eugene Sum, Sum Architects, added that he and the applicant were “trying to create a fusion
of elements from different cultures. They planned to look at new ways of looking at cultural
elements from different countries and to collage it in a way that would create “inclusionary
principles into the design.” This architecture would be specific to Fremont, specific to
California and, at the same time, it would respect those elements that come
would be adequate.