Fremont: Pacific Commons retail area

Auto Mall Parkway between Pacific Commons Blvd. and Boscell Rd., Fremont Map<

This Fremont shopping center has all the usual chain stores. But swales and wide landscaped areas that treat parking-lot and roof runoff break the sea of asphalt and soften hard edges.

Above, signs read “Water quality enhancement area. Uneven surface. Please do not cross.”

Landscaping is colorful and drought-tolerant. Plantings even obscure some signs.

Below, cobbles at swale inlets help prevent erosion. Roofed trash enclosures plumbed to sanitary sewers lessen pollution.