Sand Hill Property Company filed an application with the City of Cupertino yesterday entitled “Vallco Town Center Project Application pursuant to SB 35.” The California Legislature passed new housing legislation, known as SB 35 and signed by Governor Brown on September 29, 2017, that changes some aspects of local review. The law authorizes a property owner to submit an application for a housing development that is not subject to a conditional-use permit and is permitted a streamlined ministerial approval process, so long as the development satisfies specified planning objective standards.

Sand Hill Property Company’s proposal includes approximately 1.8 million square feet of office space, 400,000 square feet of retail, and 2,402 units of housing. Fifty percent of the housing units are proposed to be affordable. A new AMC theatre, bowling alley, and ice rink are also included in the plan. The City of Cupertino is committed to a review that is compliant with state housing law. 

While this application is under review, the owners of the Vallco property have requested that the Specific Plan process continue. The process is a path in which community members can refine the project options and define preferences. Additionally, the Specific Plan creates an ongoing opportunity for negotiation of a development agreement and community benefits. Community members are encouraged to continue to stay engaged in the design and planning process of the Vallco Special Area.

For more information on the process, visit www.cupertino.org/vallco and www.envisionvallco.org.