Ha, I always thought it was weird that Atherton didn't have sidewalks but I didn't know it was prohibited by law.
I guess it kind of makes sense in a way, though. The thing about Atherton is the lot sizes are enormous, so even if they did have sidewalks it wouldn't make sense to walk anywhere. It would take forever just to walk three houses down the street and you'd just be walking past a giant wall or hedge with nothing to look at. Sidewalks would be wasted.
One of the primary reasons some communities view sidewalks negatively is due to the desire to maintain a certain aesthetic or character. For example, in suburban neighborhoods developed post-World War II, the absence of sidewalks was intended to convey a "high-class" non-urban image by discouraging walking, aiming to preserve a rural or non-urban feel . This perspective is still found in communities where residents oppose sidewalks to retain the "country" or "rural" ambiance of their neighborhoods, equating sidewalks with urbanization and a loss of their neighborhood's character. (https://ggwash.org/view/37058/ask-ggw-is-there-any-reason-no...)
Economic factors also play a significant role. Sidewalk construction and maintenance can be costly, with prices ranging significantly based on the location, materials, and additional features like reflective paint, countdown clocks at intersections, benches, and trash cans needed to comply with safety and accessibility standards . (https://housenotebook.com/why-do-some-neighborhoods-have-no-...)
Atherton, California, is known for its strict zoning regulations, a characteristic that is deeply intertwined with the town's unique characteristics and the values of its community. Here's why these regulations are particularly strict:
Preservation of Community Character: Atherton is a community that prides itself on its distinct suburban and residential character, characterized by spacious lots, lush greenery, and a tranquil atmosphere. The strict zoning regulations help preserve this character by controlling development density, ensuring that the town maintains its spacious and green aesthetic. This includes restrictions on how much of a lot can be built upon (lot coverage) and how close buildings can be to property lines (setbacks).
Privacy and Exclusivity: Many residents of Atherton value privacy and exclusivity, which are facilitated by large lot sizes and regulations that limit the proximity of homes. These regulations help maintain the sense of seclusion and private space that is prized in the community.
Property Values: Strict zoning regulations can also protect property values. By maintaining the town's exclusive and upscale character, these regulations help ensure that properties in Atherton remain highly desirable and valuable.
Environmental Protection: Atherton is home to many trees and natural landscapes that contribute to its appeal. Strict zoning regulations help protect these natural resources, ensuring that development does not compromise the town's environmental quality. This includes preserving open spaces and ensuring that new constructions or modifications respect the existing natural landscape.
Community Input: The residents of Atherton have a significant say in the town's zoning and development policies. The strict regulations reflect not just the desires of the town's government but also the collective preferences of its residents, who are often involved in the planning process through public hearings and community meetings. This community involvement ensures that the regulations align with the residents' vision for their town.
Adherence to the General Plan: Like many municipalities, Atherton's zoning regulations are designed to be consistent with its General Plan, a comprehensive document that outlines the town's vision for growth and development. The strict zoning regulations are a tool to implement this vision, guiding development in a way that aligns with the community's goals for the future.
The combination of preserving the town's character, ensuring privacy, protecting property values, conserving the environment, and incorporating community input all contribute to the strictness of Atherton's zoning regulations. These rules are a reflection of the town's priorities and the collective vision of its residents, aimed at maintaining the quality of life and the distinctive identity of Atherton.
