During a recent government meeting, community members expressed significant concerns regarding the design plans for a new public library in Larkspur. Key discussions centered around the placement of a parking lot and the preservation of communal green spaces.
Edward Tishburn, a resident and landscape architect, highlighted the importance of maintaining a green common area that offers views of Mount Tamalpais. He urged planners to reconsider the current design, which places a parking lot at the center of the site, arguing that it detracts from the community's aesthetic and functional needs. Tishburn emphasized the potential for creating a more walkable and accessible environment that enhances the library's role as a community hub.
Matthew Hartsell echoed these sentiments, referencing a previously approved site plan that prioritized a commons area over parking. He argued that while parking is necessary, it should be located at the southern edge of the site to preserve the heart of the community space. Hartsell also advocated for the inclusion of Level 3 electric vehicle charging stations, citing the inadequacy of Level 2 chargers for residents in multi-family housing.
The discussions reflect a broader community desire to ensure that the library serves as a vibrant and accessible center for residents, rather than merely a functional building surrounded by parking. As planning progresses, the community's input will be crucial in shaping a design that balances functionality with the preservation of Larkspur's unique character.