What is the project?

The School Street Plaza redevelopment will replace the existing office complex with 243 new apartment units made up of studios, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedrooms. Additionally, the project includes nearly 6,000 square feet of new retail and activated amenity spaces along the street front, such as co-working spaces, a fitness center, and a communal lobby area.

What is the review process?

In accordance with State housing laws, the School Street Plaza will be reviewed under a ministerial (or “by-right”) approval process, as outlined in the Town’s Housing Element and ministerial review policy. This means the project is evaluated against the Town’s objective standards, with no public hearings, design review, or environmental (CEQA) review.

What is the density bonus?

With 25% of the base density of 162 units designated as affordable to low-income households, the project qualifies for a 50% density bonus per state law. By applying the density bonus, the project is allowed 243 units.

How much affordability?

The project will create 41 affordable homes, which will include studios, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments. The 25% level of affordability of the base density (162 units) far exceeds most other California developments.

How does this impact the Fairfax Housing Element and Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) mandates?

As the key site in the Town’s Housing Element, School Street Plaza will provide a significant contribution to the Town’s RHNA requirements of 490 new housing units in the current housing cycle.

What is the height?

The development will be 6 stories from the street level.

What is the allowable density at the site?

Through new state housing laws, projects can earn a 100% density bonus based on affordability levels. A maximum density bonus project at School Street Plaza could reach a total of 324 units, which is substantially larger than the proposed project.

How much parking will be included?

The project includes 322 interior parking stalls on lower floors (one subterranean and two above grade).

Who will live here?

There is considerable interest in rental apartments close to Downtown Fairfax, providing convenient access to local restaurants, shops, and public amenities. These modern apartments will target a broad demographic from young, working professionals to empty-nesters who wish to downsize and enjoy efficient living arrangements while staying local.