The Aliso Viejo community is aware of the Value Rock/Avalon Bay high-density apartment complex being proposed for The Commons Center. For the reasons below, we object to this project, or any similar project for The Commons Center:

1. Eliminates Parking: Permanently eliminates approximately 300 surface lot parking spaces available for retail visitors!  The proposed 8 story parking structure is for apartment residents only.
2. Highest Density: 340+ new units (almost 80 units per acre) will be the most dense apartment complex in the City, on the smallest parcel. For reference, the total square footage would be 3 times as much as the tall Pacific Life building next to the toll road.
3. Too Tall: Will be the tallest apartment complex in Aliso Viejo with 8 stores above grade (including the rooftop pool and clubhouse).
4. Increases Traffic: Will significantly increase traffic on roads that are already congested and overcrowded.
5. Out of Character & Not in Harmony: The Commons Center currently consists of single-story retail buildings. An 8-story mixed use building and parking structure is out of character and not in harmony with existing surrounding structures.
6. Mischaracterized as Affordable Housing: This project is 90% "at-market" units (NOT affordable housing).  It is misleading and unrealistic to utilize this project to address affordable housing requirements, since it only contributes 4% to the City's requirement to add 809 total affordable housing units by 2029. Aliso Viejo would have to build dozens of similar complexes to satisfy this requirement.
7. Re-development of old Lowe's building: As is shown in the City approved 2022 re-development plan, all existing parking areas were planned to remain, and more spaces added, to properly service the increased demand from the new tenants. 
8. Additional 2 Year Temporary Reduction in Parking: Construction for this new complex will surpass 2 years, and the process will further eliminate parking and create congestion during this time.
9. Noise Complaints: The noise from the open-air rooftop (8th floor) pool and clubhouse will disrupt the existing peace and quiet enjoyed by surrounding residents.
10. Outdated Traffic Study: The applicant provided a traffic study from 2022, while the Lowe's building remained completely vacant. An accurate traffic study cannot be completed until the new retail tenants of the re-developed Lowe's building are open for business.