In the photo: the proposed pavilion stage
In a closely watched public meeting, the San Carlos City Council reached a key decision on the long-anticipated renovation of Harrington Park and the 700 Block of Laurel Street. The session was marked by careful deliberation and community feedback, ultimately resulting in approval to move forward with Harrington Park improvements only, while deferring the 700 Block upgrades to a later phase.¹
Decision Outcome
After extensive discussion, the Council approved the final conceptual design for Harrington Park (Phase 1A) and its construction. However, the vote to proceed with both Harrington Park and the 700 Block (Phase 1B) as a single, combined construction project did not pass.
The split vote of 3-2 reflected differing priorities among Council members. Mayor Sara McDowell, Vice Mayor Pranita Venkatesh, and Councilmember Adam Rak voted in favor of proceeding with Phase 1A alone to begin construction sooner. Councilmembers John Dugan and Ron Collins Payton supported waiting to combine both phases into a single construction timeline starting in 2027, to minimize disruption and avoid tearing up the area twice.²
Why the Split Decision?
The key issue was timing vs. construction impact. Combining the projects (1A and 1B) would delay construction until 2027 due to the expanded scope, additional outreach requirements, and contract adjustments. Splitting the projects allows Harrington Park renovations to begin as early as Fall 2025, minimizing delays but risking future disruption when 700 Block work begins.³ Some public comments also raised concerns about prolonged construction interfering with downtown dining, stage use, and access to nearby businesses.⁴
What’s in Phase 1A (Approved)
Phase 1A includes the multi-purpose building, which houses “two restrooms with one fully-accessible ADA restroom (including a universal changing station suitable for persons of all ages), a standard restroom, sink facilities, a plumbing/water pump room for a proposed water feature/fountain in the 700 Block (Phase 1B), and an overflow storage space for use by the City’s Public Works and Parks and Recreation Departments. A drinking fountain with a bottle-filling station, and additional handwashing station are featured just outside the restrooms.” In addition to the building, Phase 1A will also include trees, plants, benches, lights, and other amenities within Harrington Park.⁵
Phase 1B (Deferred)
Phase 1B will include the pavilion stage and the water fountain, and the whole of Laurel Street at 700 Block which includes the native landscaping, raingardens, seating, bike racks, and entry plazas at Cherry and Olive Streets. The central path will be designed to allow emergency vehicle access, with retractable bollards and a 20-foot clearance, while special features like a digital kiosk, oversized chess board, and relocated Blue Man sculpture add community flair. Lighting will include modern fixtures, string lights, and under-bench illumination to enhance ambiance.⁶
This phase is now expected to move forward after 2027.
In the photo: illustration of Phase 1A (Harrington Park) and 1B (700 Block)
Construction Schedule
Phase 1A (Harrington Park) final design and documentation is targeted to be completed by Fall 2025, for when bidding will start. Construction may begin late 2025 to early 2026, subject to permitting. Phase 1B (700 Block) is projected to begin in 2027, pending Council approval and updated outreach efforts.⁷
Fountain Design: Back to the Drawing Board
While plans for the Harrington Park renovation are moving forward, one major element—the water feature—remains in flux. During the June 9th City Council meeting, it became clear that the design for the fountain is not final. Councilmembers acknowledged growing concerns from the community, including calls to revisit the aesthetics, purpose, and cost of the fountain altogether.
The previously earmarked budget of $1 million for the fountain was widely seen as excessive. Councilmembers echoed public sentiment, agreeing that the price tag needed to be revisited in light of both community priorities and long-term value.
Rather than rushing the process, the City will resubmit the fountain’s design for further discussion and community input. Councilmembers emphasized that the water feature should do more than just beautify the space; it’s the statement piece and the focal point of downtown San Carlos. As such, it should represent something uniquely us. The future fountain is expected to serve as a distinctive landmark, reflecting the city’s character and acting as a recognizable piece of San Carlos’ evolving identity.⁸
Details and Photos of 700 Block of Laurel Street and Harrington Park
The San Carlos Downtown Streetscape Master Plan outlines an ambitious reimagining of the 700 block of Laurel Street and Harrington Park as the central civic and cultural heart of downtown. Here’s a summary of the key plans ⁹ :
700 Block of Laurel Street: A Pedestrian-First Promenade
The 700 block will be permanently closed to cars and converted into a curbless pedestrian plaza stretching the full block, featuring:
- A wide, meandering promenade among flowering trees and rain gardens.
- Outdoor dining strips adjacent to storefronts, providing 9-foot zones for seating.
- A central area named Centennial Plaza, which serves as a key gathering space.
- Retractable bollards at Cherry and Olive Streets to support flexible access during events.
In the photo: Harrington Park and the multi-purpose building with restrooms and others.
Centennial Plaza and Harrington Park: Gathering and Celebration
At the center of the 700 block lies Centennial Plaza, which opens into a reimagined Harrington Park, designed as a formal event space. This central plaza becomes the symbolic confluence of the city’s history and its future. Cultural motifs from Native American heritage, Spanish colonialism, and modern civic life will be reflected in murals, sculptural benches, and pavement details. Features include:
“You’ll be able to walk through flowering trees and rain gardens, take a seat near the fountain, and just watch the community unfold around you,” one resident shared during a workshop.
- A multi-use pavilion for performances and shaded seating.
- Space for pop-up vendors and food trucks
- A water feature that brings animation and sound to the plaza.
- Smart light poles with Wi-Fi and EV charging
- ADA-compliant, gender-neutral public restrooms with nearby storage for event furniture.
- Informal seating, shade trees, rain gardens, and play sculptures.
Design Details and Materials
The entire zone will showcase a cohesive material palette and site furnishings:
- Permeable pavers, tactile surfaces, and custom paving patterns.
- Tree species like Platanus racemosa (Western Sycamore) and Crape Myrtle, along with native groundcovers and sedges.
- Site elements include custom benches, bike racks, smart light poles with Wi-Fi, and EV charging stations.
Programming and Use
The entire 700 block will be curbless and car-free, designed for walking, relaxing, and celebrating. The wide promenade will wind from side to side through shaded groves, raingardens, and outdoor dining zones.
The area in general is designed for daily enjoyment and special events, various scenarios as follows:
- Seasonal ice rinks, climbing walls, and art exhibitions.
- Food trucks, pop-up vendors, and public performances.
- A “dismount zone” for scooters, bikes, and skateboards.
Sources
1,2,3,4: Recording of the City of San Carlos Public Meeting dated June 9, 2025, starting at 3 hours 19 minutes at Youtube.com
5: Packet, City Council Staff Report dated June 9, 2025, “Consideration of Adopting a Resolution Approving the Final Design for Harrington Park and the 700 Block of Laurel Street…”, Page 5-7
6: Packet, City Council Staff Report dated June 9, 2025, “Consideration of Adopting a Resolution Approving the Final Design for Harrington Park and the 700 Block of Laurel Street…”, Page 7-9
7: Recording of the City of San Carlos Public Meeting dated June 9, 2025, starting at 3 hours 19 minutes at Youtube.com
8: Recording of the City of San Carlos Public Meeting dated June 9, 2025, starting at 2 hours 30 minutes at Youtube.com
9: Packet, City Council Staff Report dated June 9, 2025, “Consideration of Adopting a Resolution Approving the Final Design for Harrington Park and the 700 Block of Laurel Street…”, Page 14-26; “Downtown Streetscape Master Plan”, adopted April 28,2025
For More News
For more of what’s happening in and around San Carlos, please visit San Carlos Life Blog
About San Carlos Life
Mark Martinho and Vivienne Kelvin are the hosts of San Carlos Life and have been residents of San Carlos for years. While running San Carlos Life together with an awesome team, Mark and Viv are also in the business of real estate. They are the co-owners of Vabrato, a real estate brokerage with over 30 years of combined experience, serving the City of Good Living and the whole of San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.
With expert negotiation skills, in-depth local market knowledge, precise pricing strategies, and the latest technology paired with innovative marketing tactics, they consistently deliver exceptional results. Their proven track record includes helping sellers obtain offers above the asking price and guiding buyers to successfully secure their dream home.
Vabrato offers home sellers a comprehensive, one-stop solution that sets them apart from most traditional agents. Through their Design-to-Sell Service Package, they provide strategic property upgrades, cover upfront improvement costs, and manage the entire process from start to finish to maximize the net proceeds for the seller.
Mark is a Real Estate Broker and General Contractor, with degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Law. He is also a long-time resident of Redwood City and San Carlos. Viv is also a Broker, respected Interior Designer, seasoned Marketing Expert, and trusted San Carlos business community leader, as well as a long-time San Carlos resident.
Thinking about buying or selling in San Carlos?
Mark and Viv know every street, school, and market shift, so you get strategic pricing, standout marketing, and negotiations that deliver. Get a complimentary market snapshot or home valuation and a no-pressure plan tailored to your goals. Contact us today: your next move starts here.
Phone: +1 650 291 7241
Email: hello@sancarloslife.com
Website: https://www.vabrato.com/