San Carlos takes step on upgrades to downtown area

The council unanimously approved the design, and reflected on the work undertaken to move the project forward, slowly but surely.

“We’ve come so far since the pandemic,” Mayor Sara McDowell said. “This huge lift we’ve taken together and it’s really incredible to be here at this moment.” 

In June, the San Carlos City Council approved bifurcating the beginning phase of its downtown street updates, tackling Harrington Park before the rest of the 700 block, as Phase 1A before Phase 1B. The construction documents for Phase 1A were approved by the city’s Planning Commission Oct. 8. 

The conceptual design for Phase 1B includes a pedestrian promenade lined with trees and rain gardens, which is landscaping for capturing stormwater. There will be bicycle racks, benches and movable seating options included throughout as well. 

A key component of the design is a multiuse pavilion that will stand where Harrington Park and Laurel Street meet. It will include a raised stage to host events under the pavilion that will reach up to 22 feet tall. The 700 block will also get a water feature, likely a fountain with an artistic centerpiece, that will be determined at a later date following public engagement processes. 

The fine details and exact numbers for the construction will still be tweaked along the way, and councilmembers acknowledge all the work that still needs to be done. 

“I support this project that has set to transform our downtown into a vibrant pedestrian-friendly space that our community can be proud of,” Vice Mayor Pranita Venkatesh said. “I know there’s more work to be done but I’m excited.” 

Councilmember Neil Layton said the city will work closely with downtown businesses to make sure the upgrades align with their needs. 

“We’re trying to find the best way to turn our downtown in the economic driver of this town, or at least one of the many economic drivers of this town,” Layton said. “I think it starts with the design and once we have the design the next day continuing the work with everyone to find whatever it is to make it work with businesses.” 

With the council’s approval Tuesday, staff and consultants will prepare the construction documents to be ready once funding becomes available and allocated. 

City Manager Jeff Maltbie said the funds to construct the improvements to the 700 block will be included in the city’s two-year budget for Fiscal Year 2026-28.