A lot of exciting things are in store for Herculeans if the vision that was outlined last night for New Town Center becomes a reality.

The first topic discussed was of a parking ordinance, which may clamp down on parking within residential neighborhoods by issuing parking permits (although I hope it would be free for all registered cars in the City) and using parking meters for short-term parking.

The New Town Center will be an Emeryville-like village with several unique design aspects — water tower, large lettering (similar to Ghirardelli Square) and billboards — and include live-work, large retail and office space.

The plan is dependent upon the relocation of the I-80 Eastbound off-ramp from its current location to farther east along Highway 4. It would be nice if there was a loop that would potentially send I-80 eastbound traffic west along John Muir Parkway towards the Waterfront instead of driving through what will be an even more congested Willow Avenue. (A rough plan was shown during the presentation and did not include this feature.)

Overall, New Town Center promises to be a beautiful destination that should bring in regional traffic and tax revenue for the City, as well as provide entertainment opportunities for residents.

The full unedited video of the session is below…