Popularized by the action-packed hit 1971 movie, the term “vanishing point” refers to a point at which distant separate objects appear to merge and disappear as distinct and separate. How these are viewed and when a vanishing point is reached is based on the perspective of an observer. Even parallel lines such as railroad tracks appear to merge if viewed from a distance. Artists have known and employed this paradox between sight and reality in visual works of paintings, drawings, scenery among other representations. In other areas, the vanishing point may be a bit more indistinct.
Recently, the City of Fremont approved an, 8-story, 179 residential unit, mixed-use building, with 8,000 square feet of commercial space, on Fremont Boulevard in the downtown development area. As a major departure from existing structures, it raises questions of safety (is the fire department equipped to handle a blaze in a building of that size?), environmental and parking concerns. Although technically falling within the authority of the Zoning Administrator, without approval by or knowledge of the planning commission or city council, these bodies should at least be aware and give input. Buried in a rarely viewed published agenda and midday hearing, there was little review or comment as it passed largely unnoticed. It will definitely be noticed when construction begins!
The question raised by this issue is whether planning in Fremont has reached a vanishing point in which bureaucratic process has merged with Planning Commission and City Council. When the argument of transparency is rebutted by procedures that counter that narrative, it is time to reflect and review what is going on. The project may be a good one or flawed, but the method of approval for such a major departure from existing downtown features is worth a greater public review. The Fremont Bank building was closely scrutinized before its approval. The same should apply to this one.
