Responsible Growth

By Russ Cohen

Development can, will and should be in Burlingame's future.

In any town, small or large, rural or urban-growth is inevitable. Single use, older buildings sometimes make way for newer multi-use structures, a once light industrial zone may change to one that allows work/live spaces. Adaptive reuse of older buildings is another way towns can grow without painful side effects.

The key to growth in Burlingame is simple. It must be done with cautious deliberation. We must consider how our town evolved in the past and what it looks and feels like today. Ideally, new development should give back to the community and add to its vitality. Good planning principles should be of primary concern. Burlingame is, quite frankly, the gem of the Peninsula because of our respect for history. Our town was designed on the idea that has become a popular rallying cry for many of today's politicians. Known as "smart growth", this principle encourages development surrounding transportation hubs. Burlingame recognized the value of that notion even before it was incorporated in 1908.

Our town grew up around the historic Burlingame Train Station and has been thriving for almost a century. I'd like to keep it that way.

It is the balance of walkable streets, architecturally eclectic single family homes, light industrial, hotel, parks and commercial areas that make us all love living here.