Architects from Core Development, the company that now owns the Fiesta Lanes property, have worked closely with members of the Shasta/Hanchett Park Neighborhood Association to create a development plan that will blend in with the style of homes in the greater Rose Garden area while providing low-cost housing for more people in San Jose.

The building plan has changed drastically from the original concept presented in 2001. What was once slotted to be 179-family rental apartments and townhomes has been scaled back to 94 senior rental units, 34 townhomes for purchase, set off by 4,000 square feet of neighborhood-friendly retail establishments. A major exit and entrance has been moved from a side street to W. San Carlos in an effort to reduce neighborhood traffic. The original height proposal of 38.5 feet also has been reduced to 28.5 feet to prevent a shadow that would have blanketed many homes that back up to the development site. With the latest design, the largest building will only cast a shadow on itself.

Meetings in January and March between Core Development and Shasta Hanchett residents resulted in a promise from Core that new retail space would not be approved to sell alcohol. Any new shops or services are said to be "neighborhood-serving" businesses, according to Rick Crosetti of District 6 Councilman Ken Yeager's office. Although the process for attracting new businesses for the project is a long way off, Crosetti suggested that new establishments could include a hairdresser, bagel shop or coffee shop but would definitely exclude the possibility of a market or restaurant.

Crosetti said that the original response to Core's proposal was "overwhelmingly negative" and that both the developers and residents have worked hard to come up with a plan that complements the Shasta Hanchett neighborhood.

"The project was not well received when it was initially proposed," said Lisa Townsley, chairwoman of the New Developments Committi of the Shasta/Hanchett Park Neighborhood Association. "Core has turned around and made a lot of concessions and they've had a lot of community outreach," she said.

Although, Townsley's home is not directly affected by the development, she has worked to mobilize neighbors who will be impacted. As a result, a group of residents was organized to voice their concerns to Core and to help shape a development that would better reflect the Shasta Hanchett community.

Martha Putnam of Core Development toured Shasta Hanchett homes to better understand the structural details and overall style of homes that residents appreciate. Many of those details are included in the new proposal. Although artist renderings of the site are not yet available, Putnam says she's confident that neighbors will be pleased with the changes.

"The building echoes the style of the Shasta Hanchett neighborhood," said Putnam.

The design includes influences from the Craftsman, Spanish and Bungalow style homes in the surrounding areas. Core designers are still working on a color palette.

Putnam also points out that the project is only in the zoning phase and that designs are still conceptual. The new height proposal was submitted to the planning department where staff will review the changes and submit a report to the planning commission before the project is taken to the city council.