Architectural board approves 7-story housing development on El Camino – Palo Alto Daily Post
Big Picture
Palo Alto’s Architectural Review Board has approved plans for a seven-story, 183-unit apartment building at the corner of El Camino Real and Curtner Avenue, as long as developers address design conditions like adding more parking and a second elevator. The project by Sares Regis Group will replace existing low-rise buildings and includes a mix of studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom units, with about 23 reserved as affordable housing under California’s Builder’s Remedy law. The proposal now moves on to the City Council for final approval.
Why it matters
This decision underscores Palo Alto’s ongoing efforts to expand housing supply amid regional shortages. By leveraging state policy that allows larger projects when local housing plans lag, the city is adding diverse housing options near transit and services, while trying to balance design quality and neighborhood concerns like parking and traffic. How this project moves through the council process will be a bellwether for future housing developments in Palo Alto and across the Peninsula.
