| | Published April 24th, 2024
| Moraga to hold General Plan Community-Wide Meeting
| | | By Vera Kochan | | |
Looking ahead to the year 2040, the town has begun the process of updating its General Plan. The plan's purpose is to guide land use planning decisions.
Under state law, subdivisions, capital improvements, development agreements, and many other land use actions must be consistent with an adopted general plan. As a policy document, it establishes a town-wide vision and uniform direction for future development by reflecting the community's priorities and values, and by including supporting goals, policies, and implementation measures to help elected officials, staff, residents, and local businesses achieve that vision.
"This project is part of the long range update as the current General Plan is over 20 years old," stated Moraga Planning Director Afshan Hamid. "The updates envision the next 10-15 years in terms of growth, opportunities, and challenges for the Town."
Hamid further explained, "The General Plan has seven mandatory elements: Land Use, Transportation, Housing, Safety, Conservation, Open Space, and Noise. An additional county mandated element is Growth Management. The optional elements are Community Design, Community Services and Facilities, and Economic Vitality."
The town is inviting all members of the community to a General Plan 2040 workshop that will focus on four elements: Sustainability, Economic Vitality, Transportation, and Community Design. With regards to sustainability, the town will examine ways to create more resilient strategies for drought, storms, and the protection of natural and built environments.
In terms of economic vitality, the town plans to discuss the two existing commercial centers and the opportunity for amenities, supporting local businesses, property owners, and strengthening the local economy.
The focus of the transportation element will be on the critical needs for all modes of transportation on Moraga's existing roadways and any improvements necessary to support the town's future growth.
Community design discussions will envision place-making with new development, including public areas to shop, live, dine, and play, while focusing on small community design.
Hamid announced, "The community is invited to a Town wide workshop for early input and feedback being held at Saint Mary's College at Hagerty Lounge at De La Salle Building on April 30 from 5 to 7 p.m. Interactive stations will be set up for input and feedback. Please go to: makemoragahome.ca.us under Upcoming Events & Meetings for more information." |
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA