Developers recently submitted plans to construct a large-scale commercial complex on property in El Dorado Hills at the north end of highway-50, flanking Silva Valley Parkway. This land parcel, known as EDH 52, sits next to a school and directly in front of our quiet—and until now—beautifully-planned Serrano neighborhood with a natural hillside view.

For years, our familyand neighbors have enjoyed a colorful sunset behind our hill and silhouette ofMount Diablo. Abundant wildlife including red tail hawks, shy coyotes, and familiesof turkeys and rabbits all make their home in these hills. Walking pathslead through meadows and woodlands to nearby trickling creeks and waterfalls.

This could all changedramatically—and forever—if we don’t act now.

Here’s our concern:with construction of the highway interchange, this site is now zoned for bigbox commercial development, which has no connection, consideration, orvision for this neighborhood. This is the wrong location for this kind ofdevelopment. 

Creating ageneric enterprise for economic expansion is appropriate where retail locationscan transform a business park or commercial environment—not in our neighborhoodmeadow right next to a distinguished elementary school attended byhundreds of young children. This type of development would have disastrouseffects on the entire area.

Costco submitted abid to build at this location. Another design depicts a typical churned-outsolution—disconnected structures among a sea of parking—including a hotel,drive-through food, gas stations, rows of storage facilities, retail spaces,medical offices, a pharmacy, and a large grocery. These types of mass-market complexesare intended for vehicles, not pedestrian-access, increasing traffic congestion,and would require mature tree removal and infill of wetlands.

The currentlyproposed solutions would destroy our property values, along with thisidyllic setting, threaten the safety of our children, and must be stopped.Instead of harmonizing with the area’s quality, the plans reflect a majordisconnect between developers, county land management, and the residents withinthis community. 

We have one chance toget it right, and lasting implications if we don’t.

This development is not necessary or beneficial at this location. The major interchange at Latrobe and El Dorado Hills boulevards provides access to the community’s central commercial zone. The business park allots space for big box commercial and industrial buildings. Gas stations and supermarkets should remain along these main arteries near Town Center.

If there is an actualneed, we should think carefully about where to locate businesses, always mindfulof our residents and aesthetics. Architecture should be attractive, as well asfunctional.

The Silva Valleyinterchange must remain a minor transition point, providing convenient freewayaccess for residents. The ramps must never be intended for industrial orgeneral public use. Gas stations, public storage units, and large shoppingcenters Do Not belong here. 

Like us, many residents are business-minded professionals who want development to boost home values, improve the quality of life, and enhance the standards we all have come to expect. Roadways must remain dedicated to the local homes to prioritize safety and elevate quality living for residents and school children, not to diminish the character or value of this community.

Development in ElDorado Hills should be thoughtful—with the aim of enhancing the area. Reputable,quality developers work to truly understand the desires of a community andcreate lasting contributions. It’s not too late, but we must voice ourconcerns to the builders and county at once. 

The buildout ofSerrano incited quality construction and the preservation of natural openspaces. This standard must continue to be upheld.

A more inspiredvision would add value to our community before it is too late. Small-scale commercial development next to Serrano maybe appropriate—if it is developed to blendwith the natural setting; and if itmeets the needs of locals. 

Consider this: charming,timeless villages are sources of inspiration. Amidst beautifularchitecture and nature, people stroll through squares and over footbridges,connecting them to artisans and producers of local specialties, such as wine,cheese and farm-fresh goods. Many boast world-class restaurants, cafés andboutiques. Residents could consider this type of quaint, classymarketplace intended to directly serve us. 

I can imagine a picturesque village center beneath our hillside view. Locals could enjoy specialty markets, cafés, and restaurants surrounding a central plaza to support human connection and interaction, landscaped with shade trees, fountains, and outdoor tables. Integrated parking would not detract from the scenery, and would prioritize flow for pedestrians and bicycle circulation. Interconnected paths and trails would connect throughout the area to support healthy, active lifestyles.

Since the site is adjacent to an elementary school—and all the area’s students greatly need places to hang out—stylish, family-friendly shops and features would attract neighborhood kids and adults. This kind of solution would enhance the entire community in a more inspiring, harmonious manner.

Let’s preserve the value of our homes and the quality of our neighborhoods. Let’s protect the scenery that is enjoyed and loved by so many of us. Let’s maintain the safe tranquility of our community.

If we decide buildingon our hillside is right thing to do, let’s be thoughtful to create somethingbeautiful and lasting. Even if a quaint, elegant village finds itsplace here, I hope our vibrant sunset views remain. 

Please act now—voice your support at the community meetings, talk with your neighbors, and email county planning officials. Let’s continue the conversation toward a more creative vision. Please help reshape the direction for this site’s development into an attractive solution that will benefit us all.