Planning Commission Meeting - April 8, 2026

The City of Santa Clara Planning Commission held a meeting on April 8, 2026, primarily focused on the revised El Camino Real specific plan, including a general plan amendment and zoning code updates. The commission reviewed detailed presentations on land use designations, development and design standards, and mobility improvements aimed at transforming the corridor into a pedestrian-oriented mixed-use area with approximately 4,400 residential units. Discussions addressed concerns about density, parking, infrastructure capacity, retail market conditions, and neighborhood transitions. The commission voted to recommend city council certification of the Environmental Impact Report (EIR), approval of the general plan amendments, and adoption of zoning code amendments to create new El Camino Real zoning districts. Additionally, the commission considered but ultimately voted against recommending an ordinance to allow supergraphic signs on buildings near Levi's Stadium during the FIFA World Cup 2026. The meeting also included a review of the charter review process related to the planning commission's structure and powers, with a motion to consolidate and forward commission comments to the charter review committee and city council. Budget and upcoming meeting items were briefly discussed.