HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-26 Parks & Recreation Commission Agenda PacketPARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
Council Chambers & Hybrid
7:00 PM
Parks and Recreation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to
attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safety while still
maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participate
from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in the
meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending in
person. T h e m e e t i n g w i l l b e b r o a d c a s t o n C a b l e T V C h a n n e l 2 6 , l i v e o n
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen Media
Center https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas and
report are available at https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Community‐Services/Other‐
Services/Commissions/Parks‐and‐Recreation‐Commission.
VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/99937899745)
Meeting ID: 999 3789 9745 Phone: 1(669)900‐6833
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an
amount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes
after the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance to
ParkRec.commission@cityofpaloalto.org and will be provided to the Council and available for
inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing
in your subject line.
PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only
by email to ParkRec.commission@cityofpaloalto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.
Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To
uphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage
devices are not accepted.
Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks,
posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do not
create a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated when
displaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view or
passage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting.
CALL TO ORDER & ROLL CALL
PUBLIC COMMENT
Members of the public wishing to address the Board on matters within the jurisdiction of the City, but not on this agenda, may
do so during the Public Comment period for up to three (3) minutes.
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
This is the point in the meeting where a vote may be taken to add or change the order of the agenda to improve meeting
management.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1.Approval of Draft Minutes from the February 27, 2024, Parks and Recreation Commission
Regular Meeting ‐ Action ‐ Attachment ‐(5 min)
CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS
2.Department Report – (20 min)
BUSINESS ITEMS
3.Quarry Road Transit Center Project – Philip Kamhi – Discussion – Attachment – (45 min)
4.Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) Update – Ozzy Arce – Discussion –
Attachment – (45 min)
5.Field Use Policy Review – Adam Howard – Discussion – Attachment – (60 min)
6.Ad Hoc Committees and Liaison Updates – Chair Brown – Discussion – (15 min)
COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND
AGENDAS
ADJOURNMENT
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email,
teleconference, or by phone.
1. W r i t t e n p u b l i c c o m m e n t s m a y b e s u b m i t t e d b y e m a i l t o
ParkRec.Commission@cityofpaloalto.org.
2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Council, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐
based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using
your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30 ,
Firefox 27 , Microsoft Edge 12 , Safari 7 . Certain functionality may be disabled in
older browsers including Internet Explorer.
You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you
identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you
that it is your turn to speak.
When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will
activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they
are called to speak.
When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be
shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Council, download the Zoom application onto
your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID
below. Please follow the instructions B‐E above.
4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When
you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to
speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the
Council. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your
remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 999 3789 9745 Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public
programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with
disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary
aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at
(650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or
accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or
service.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSIONRegular MeetingTuesday, March 26, 2024Council Chambers & Hybrid7:00 PMParks and Recreation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option toattend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safety while stillmaintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participatefrom home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in themeeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending inperson. T h e m e e t i n g w i l l b e b r o a d c a s t o n C a b l e T V C h a n n e l 2 6 , l i v e o nYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas andreport are available at https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Community‐Services/Other‐Services/Commissions/Parks‐and‐Recreation‐Commission.VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/99937899745)Meeting ID: 999 3789 9745 Phone: 1(669)900‐6833PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or anamount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutesafter the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance toParkRec.commission@cityofpaloalto.org and will be provided to the Council and available forinspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencingin your subject line.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to ParkRec.commission@cityofpaloalto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. Touphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storagedevices are not accepted.
Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks,
posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do not
create a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated when
displaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view or
passage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting.
CALL TO ORDER & ROLL CALL
PUBLIC COMMENT
Members of the public wishing to address the Board on matters within the jurisdiction of the City, but not on this agenda, may
do so during the Public Comment period for up to three (3) minutes.
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
This is the point in the meeting where a vote may be taken to add or change the order of the agenda to improve meeting
management.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1.Approval of Draft Minutes from the February 27, 2024, Parks and Recreation Commission
Regular Meeting ‐ Action ‐ Attachment ‐(5 min)
CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS
2.Department Report – (20 min)
BUSINESS ITEMS
3.Quarry Road Transit Center Project – Philip Kamhi – Discussion – Attachment – (45 min)
4.Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) Update – Ozzy Arce – Discussion –
Attachment – (45 min)
5.Field Use Policy Review – Adam Howard – Discussion – Attachment – (60 min)
6.Ad Hoc Committees and Liaison Updates – Chair Brown – Discussion – (15 min)
COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND
AGENDAS
ADJOURNMENT
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email,
teleconference, or by phone.
1. W r i t t e n p u b l i c c o m m e n t s m a y b e s u b m i t t e d b y e m a i l t o
ParkRec.Commission@cityofpaloalto.org.
2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Council, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐
based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using
your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30 ,
Firefox 27 , Microsoft Edge 12 , Safari 7 . Certain functionality may be disabled in
older browsers including Internet Explorer.
You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you
identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you
that it is your turn to speak.
When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will
activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they
are called to speak.
When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be
shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Council, download the Zoom application onto
your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID
below. Please follow the instructions B‐E above.
4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When
you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to
speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the
Council. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your
remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 999 3789 9745 Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public
programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with
disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary
aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at
(650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or
accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or
service.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSIONRegular MeetingTuesday, March 26, 2024Council Chambers & Hybrid7:00 PMParks and Recreation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option toattend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safety while stillmaintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participatefrom home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in themeeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending inperson. T h e m e e t i n g w i l l b e b r o a d c a s t o n C a b l e T V C h a n n e l 2 6 , l i v e o nYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas andreport are available at https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Community‐Services/Other‐Services/Commissions/Parks‐and‐Recreation‐Commission.VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/99937899745)Meeting ID: 999 3789 9745 Phone: 1(669)900‐6833PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or anamount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutesafter the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance toParkRec.commission@cityofpaloalto.org and will be provided to the Council and available forinspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencingin your subject line.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to ParkRec.commission@cityofpaloalto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. Touphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storagedevices are not accepted.Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks,posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do notcreate a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated whendisplaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view orpassage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting.CALL TO ORDER & ROLL CALLPUBLIC COMMENT Members of the public wishing to address the Board on matters within the jurisdiction of the City, but not on this agenda, maydo so during the Public Comment period for up to three (3) minutes.AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONSThis is the point in the meeting where a vote may be taken to add or change the order of the agenda to improve meetingmanagement. APPROVAL OF MINUTES1.Approval of Draft Minutes from the February 27, 2024, Parks and Recreation CommissionRegular Meeting ‐ Action ‐ Attachment ‐(5 min)CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS2.Department Report – (20 min)BUSINESS ITEMS3.Quarry Road Transit Center Project – Philip Kamhi – Discussion – Attachment – (45 min)4.Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) Update – Ozzy Arce – Discussion –Attachment – (45 min)5.Field Use Policy Review – Adam Howard – Discussion – Attachment – (60 min)6.Ad Hoc Committees and Liaison Updates – Chair Brown – Discussion – (15 min)COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND
AGENDAS
ADJOURNMENT
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email,
teleconference, or by phone.
1. W r i t t e n p u b l i c c o m m e n t s m a y b e s u b m i t t e d b y e m a i l t o
ParkRec.Commission@cityofpaloalto.org.
2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Council, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐
based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using
your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30 ,
Firefox 27 , Microsoft Edge 12 , Safari 7 . Certain functionality may be disabled in
older browsers including Internet Explorer.
You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you
identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you
that it is your turn to speak.
When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will
activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they
are called to speak.
When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be
shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Council, download the Zoom application onto
your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID
below. Please follow the instructions B‐E above.
4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When
you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to
speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the
Council. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your
remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 999 3789 9745 Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public
programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with
disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary
aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at
(650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or
accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or
service.
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2
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MINUTES 4
PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION 5
REGULAR MEETING 6
February 27, 2024 7
In-Person & Virtual Conference 8
Palo Alto, California 9
10
Commissioners Present: Chair Amanda Brown, Vice Chair Nellis Freeman, Commissioners 11
Anne Cribbs, Jeff Greenfield, Shani Kleinhaus, Joy Oche, Bing Wei 12
Commissioners Absent: 13
Others Present: Council Member Vicki Veenker 14
Staff Present: Kristen O’Kane, Javod Ghods 15
16
CALL TO ORDER & ROLL CALL 17
Chair Brown called the meeting to order. A roll call was taken with seven present. 18
19
PUBLIC COMMENT 20
Winter D. provided slides discussing the nighttime lighting along Bol Park’s Creek path 21
that are mounted up high and illuminate more than the path. She discussed an alternative 22
that would achieve a balance between needed lighting and biodiversity support. She 23
asked to have the lighting issue addressed to come into compliance with Municipal Code 24
18.40.140. 25
Dolly, Palo Alto student, mentioned the recent suicide of a Gunn student stating that 26
mental health is a huge issue in Palo Alto. She declared that there has not been enough 27
done to support the youth’s mental health and provided information that school 28
counselors were committing breach of privacy. She also indicated a safe place was 29
needed for students to go to outside of school hours to get needed support. She ended 30
that more promotion of awareness is needed to destigmatization this issue. 31
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AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS, AND DELETIONS 1
None. 2
3
APPROVAL OF MINUTES 4
1. Approval of Draft Minutes from the January 23rd, 2024, Parks and 5
Recreation Commission Special Meeting 6
Commissioner Kleinhaus commented that the minutes suggest that she said the City 7
Council should have CEQA training. She meant all commissions who work on land use 8
issues. 9
Commissioner Greenfield made a motion to approve the January 23, 2024, minutes with 10
the modification prescribed by Commissioner Kleinhaus seconded by Commissioner 11
Cribbs. The motion passed by a 6-0 roll call vote. Commissioner Freeman abstained. 12
13
CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS 14
2. Department Report 15
Kristen O’Kane, Community Services Director, gave a slide presentation discussing 16
recruitment, upcoming special events, project updates and capital improvement projects. 17
Commissioner Kleinhaus asked for an update on the mitigations for the golf course or to 18
have them added to the list. She also wanted to know of the value engineering for 19
Mitchell Dog Park would impact the trees that are expected to be planted. 20
Ms. O’Kane said she could add mitigations for the golf course to the project list. With 21
regard to Mitchell Park, she did not anticipate that trying to reduce costs would impact 22
tree planting. 23
Commissioner Wei asked if the Art Therapy for Teens is a new program and wanted to 24
know if there was data tracking how many attended and how often it would take place. 25
She would be interested in observing. 26
Ms. O’Kane answered the Art Center has offered art therapy programs before. They did 27
a quick activation of this one in light of recent events in Palo Alto trying to find 28
comfortable places for the youth and teens to go. There is not a plan for this to occur 29
regularly at the time but she would check with Karen at the Art Center and see if they 30
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have plans for additional programming. 1
Commissioner Greenfield requested more granularity on the target date for the turf 2
replacement at El Camino park. He queried if the field stakeholder had been notified 3
about the delay. He continued to be interested in the status of the construction equipment 4
at Arastradero Preserve, why it is there and when it will be removed. 5
Ms. O’Kane agreed to obtain all of that information from Lam Do and would verify that 6
the field users ad-hoc was updated. 7
Commissioner Oche wondered if there would be any information about the history of the 8
May Fete Parade on the website and if not, would it be possible to do something like that 9
commemorating the hundredth year. She asked for clarification on the date of the Teen 10
Advisory Board Escape Room. 11
Ms. O’Kane explained the whole theme of the May Fete Parade was celebrating 100 12
years of the parade. She thought having some historical photos and including people who 13
remember previous parades would be a great idea. She answered that the escape room 14
would be March 1. 15
Commissioner Wei asked how the escape room is advertised. 16
Ms. O’Kane answered they advertise through the teen leadership groups, social media 17
and the coordination with the PTA. 18
Commissioner Cribbs asked about an update on the golf mitigation and wanted to know 19
if there was anything about the letter from the First Tee or the agreement that was 20
supposed to be presented a week after the last meeting. 21
Vice Chair Freeman asked about the status of the meeting that had been scheduled with 22
First Tee that week regarding the agreement between them and the City. 23
Ms. O’Kane stated they are still in conversation with First Tee but have not been able to 24
get to the next step. She did not have a status update regarding the meeting with First 25
Tee. 26
Commissioner Kleinhaus suggested an ad-hoc for golf mitigation might be useful. 27
Vice Chair Freeman thought the plan was that he would continue working with Lam Do 28
as liaison to stay on top of those issues. He stated there has been a new consultant added 29
and they are still in the process of collecting information. 30
Ms. O’Kane assured that they are working diligently and consistently on these issues. 31
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Chair Brown allowed that it was a little gray about what items belong in the department 1
report versus the liaison ad-hoc report. She surmised it fit in the golf course liaison 2
update. 3
Vice Chair Freeman questioned if the synthetic turf delay was regarding the bid or just a 4
general delay. 5
Ms. O’Kane answered it was a delay with the design team contract. 6
Commissioner Greenfield asked if there is anything the ad-hoc could have done to help 7
avoid the situation looking toward the future. He requested an update on how the City 8
and school district are working on plans to add lighting on the pathways at Bol Park and 9
taking into consideration the lighting issues along Matadero Creek regarding what 10
direction they might go in the future. 11
Ms. O’Kane said that was a good topic to think about when talking in depth about their 12
liaisons. She added that City Manager Ed Shikada reported to Council that the City are 13
collaborating closely with the school district Project Safety Net and Momentum for 14
Health to provide mental health first aid training. She asked for time to research the 15
lighting issues and would discuss it the next month. 16
Commissioner Kleinhaus posed questions she would like to be added to that 17
investigation which included when the lights are on, if they are on all night, if the 18
attachments to the trees were according to code and the questions the public speaker had 19
about the kind of lighting they used and whether it could be replaced. 20
21
BUSINESS 22
3. Recreation Wellness Center Update – Kristen O’Kane – Discussion – (60 min) 23
Ms. O’Kane presented slides discussing the Recreation Wellness Center update covering 24
why Palo Alto needs a gym and topics of review. 25
Commissioner Cribbs talked about slides detailing the Friends of the Palo Alto 26
Recreation and Wellness Center including a list of board members. 27
Ms. O’Kane then showed slides about project/partnership goals, steps to achieving the 28
goals, location selection process and approval, initial site review, Cubberley Community 29
Center, current status, current uses at Cubberley, master planning and project next steps. 30
Penny Ellson discussed Cubberley versus Greer for the Wellness Center site. She 31
suggested having a bond measure for both. 32
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Deborah Simon, Chairperson of Friends of Cubberley, declared that the Friends of 1
Cubberley believe strongly that the Wellness Center should be located at Cubberley for 2
all the reasons mentioned by Ms. Ellson in addition to the fact that South Palo Alto is 3
lagging behind the other areas of Palo Alto in terms of resources and facilities. 4
Monica Williams, Cofounder of the Palo Alto Pickleball Club, expressed the club’s 5
support for a Palo Alto Gym and Wellness Center and hoped the project would be 6
prioritized. 7
Commissioner Wei wondered what the process would be for identifying the site and why 8
it was taking so long. She asked for a timeline regarding fundraising. 9
Ms. O’Kane listed reasons to be staff time and the importance in seeing how the 10
Cubberley negotiations go with the school district. She stated the fundraising cannot start 11
until they know what the project is and there is a letter of intent between the Friends and 12
the City. 13
Vice Chair Freeman added the ad-hoc has been very much involved working with the 14
Friends group. He thought Cubberley as a site was still in the mix. He stated the 15
infrastructure planning would add to the timeline. He believed they were getting close to 16
a decision on the site. 17
Commissioner Oche supported the idea of having both Cubberley and Greer Park. She 18
thought clarification was needed on the timeline for the space at Cubberley. 19
Commissioner Cribbs stated the Friends are agnostic about where the site is but were 20
anxious about getting involved with Cubberley if it would be 10 years. 21
Commissioner Kleinhaus discussed the loss of open space if Greer was chosen. She felt 22
Cubberley was the better choice. 23
Commissioner Greenfield thought it would be helpful to understand what the timeframe 24
would be for getting more clarity on the potential for Cubberley in the near term. He also 25
posed the question about the potential vision for a gym and/or gym wellness center at 26
both Cubberley and Greer Park. He hoped a detailed summary report of the feedback 27
from the community meeting could be shared with the full commission soon. Regarding 28
site C, he asked if parking along Amarillo would take park space. He talked about a 29
concern about adding parking geared toward Greer Park Recreation Center being 30
available for Greer Park to use. He questioned if the dog run would be impacted by the 31
plan. He expressed concern about the proximity of the site to residences. 32
Commissioner Cribbs’ understanding was that the parking would use the street and not 33
the park. She stated the dog park is scheduled for renovation soon. She added that the 34
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building they were contemplating is 0.7 acres and the acreage of Greer Park is 22 acres 1
altogether. Adding parking would bring the whole site to about 1.7 acres. They had 2
talked about 8 acres in Cubberley. It was her understanding that the ad-hoc committee 3
from the Council and school district talked about an additional 7 acres being added to the 4
8 acres bringing 15 acres to work with at Cubberley. She thought that was land that has 5
buildings on it and that the grass playing fields at Cubberley needed to be protected in 6
case the school district wants to build a high school in 20 years. She said that having 7
both Cubberley and Greer had been talked about and it was thought that both facilities 8
could be used. 9
Council Member Veenker confirmed they owned the 8 acres and could go forward with 10
those. The needed acreage has not be predetermined and could not be used to affect a 11
decision at this time. 12
Chair Brown advised erring on the side of overcommunicating with the community. She 13
expressed curiosity about the ad-hoc’s views on next steps. She queried if there would be 14
benefit to providing and option A and B and moving forward without a site set in stone. 15
Ms. O’Kane was concerned that Council would not feel like they could make a decision 16
without knowing where the Cubberley negotiations are. She agreed a wellness center 17
could be put on 8 acres. She was going to discuss whether that would be a better path 18
forward. 19
20
4. Recreation Program Review Update – Recreation Programs Liaisons – 21
Discussion – (60 min) 22
Commissioner Wei gave a slide presentation updating the Recreation Program Review to 23
include an executive summary, the overall process for the ad-hoc team and staff, Enjoy 24
programs, comparison of City of Mountain View programs and Menlo Park and Los 25
Altos activity guide, solutions and suggestions and the next steps and action plans. 26
Commissioner Oche added she wanted to find a way to incorporate mentorship between 27
seniors and youth. She believed identifying and getting feedback from the major 28
stakeholders would be the first step to get started. She suggested the possibility of doing 29
a survey. 30
Chair Brown said she looked forward to a report of recommendations and best practices. 31
She wanted to make sure they capture all of the ideas that are specific to programming, 32
who to talk to and how things are done but be mindful that they stay in their lane as a 33
commission of advising on policy general areas. She encouraged looking beyond 34
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geographic neighbors at other communities throughout the state with similar 1
demographics or needs. 2
Vice Chair Freeman was interested in knowing how many youth they had coming in 3
from other cities adding to the waitlist. He suggested also looking at partnerships that 4
can be made with some of the nonprofit clubs. 5
Commissioner Kleinhaus thought the biggest hurdle was how to bring the generations 6
together in a way they would actually want to be together. She suggested doing some 7
speed date games for adults and youth to identify things they have in common. 8
Commissioner Wei thought they could pair retirees and youth for an hour or two at the 9
May Fete after lunch. 10
Commissioner Greenfield discussed the importance of all working together with the 11
same goals to serve the community. He suggested working with existing senior 12
communities putting out feelers to see what resources are available and what interest is 13
there, working with the teen advisory committee, reaching out to other youth 14
organizations and schools and considering reaching out to Youth Community Services. 15
Commissioner Cribbs mentioned adding Canopy on the list of people to convene. 16
Ms. O’Kane stated more research could be done with the partner cities that already have 17
senior centers in place. She commented that the waitlists for a lot of the summer 18
programs are driven by space, staff and budget issues and they are looking at proposing 19
additional funds to support reaching more kids in the community for fiscal year 2025. 20
Commissioner Wei referred to Camp Connection advertised in Palo Alto Weekly and 21
asked if they could collaborate with them to send residents out instead of adding more 22
work for City Staff. 23
Ms. O’Kane answered they are familiar with Camp Connections and have advertised in 24
that in the past. She discussed things that they offer at their camps that are not available 25
in other locations. 26
Commissioner Wei suggested having a QR code upload to include the calendar for Palo 27
Alto activities but also redirect to nearby camps. 28
Commissioner Oche wondered if it would be possible to get more detail on the waitlist 29
so they could look at the trends. She was also careful with the fact that if they want to do 30
partnerships with people who have similar programs that it would not affect their own 31
programming. She asked if the City would provide insurance for people who volunteer. 32
She asked if there are opportunities to consider alternative spaces and scale the same 33
programming in another location, possibly the Friends of the Junior Museum Zoo. 34
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Ms. O’Kane stated she would have to talk to the risk managers about providing 1
insurance. She said they could share the data. She felt like it was getting into the weeds 2
of operations of how the department functions and it takes Staff time to collect the data. 3
She added there are also less popular camps that do not have waitlists. They do outreach 4
to parents offering those options. 5
Commissioner Oche declared that she was never able to get the programs she wanted and 6
was never informed of alternatives. She reiterated if data was available to reflect trends, 7
they could make better choices and decisions going forward. 8
Ms. O’Kane outlined which programs have high waitlists. 9
Commissioner Wei felt the oversubscribing had to do with awareness in knowing where 10
the programs are. 11
Commissioner Greenfield said it would not be feasible to scale up some of the special 12
programs because they have special infrastructure. He thought they need to look at ways 13
to improve the access to signing up. 14
Ms. O’Kane discussed research that is being done to rectify the equity issue in 15
registering online. 16
17
5. Ad Hoc Committees and Liaison Updates – Chair – Discussion – (15 min) 18
Commissioner Greenfield talked about the Playing Field Policy and Projects ad-hoc. 19
They previously focused on helping with the artificial turf selection. For this calendar 20
year, they would focus on a review of the field policy. The tennis courts policy was also 21
associated in the same policy and work is being done to update that to the racquetball 22
policy. There has been talk about potentially looking at both field policy and the tennis 23
court/racquet users policy. They want to focus on the field policy for this cycle and then 24
focus the next cycle on looking at the racquet/tennis court policy. He hoped to bring an 25
update within the next couple of months. 26
Vice Chair Freeman provided a golf update. He is scheduled to meet with Lam Do by the 27
next week regarding the agreement between the City and First Tee. He hoped to have a 28
progress report at the next PRC meeting. Mr. Do had indicated that golf operations have 29
been impacted by the weather. They are working with a different ecologist on the 30
Wetlands strategy on getting back into compliance. Part of that process is reviewing 31
historical documentation and preparing a plan to help the City work with the Water 32
Board. The goal is to get into compliance in the next two to three months and have a 33
written developed plan for the Water Board. He will continue to follow up on that. 34
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Commissioner Kleinhaus asked if a presentation could be agendized to provide visibility 1
of what will be proposed to come into compliance. 2
Ms. O’Kane thought the right time to share that would be when they have a proposal 3
approved by the Water Board. Their goal is to have a plan approved in the next two to 4
three months that will get them into compliance. 5
Commissioner Cribbs queried if there is any way to have a date for when the letter would 6
arrive regarding First Tee. 7
Commissioner Greenfield gave an update on the Tree Ordinance. It originally passed 8
City Council on a 5-2 vote but failed to receive a majority vote at a second reading. It 9
will return to City Council on March 18. He added the next meeting of the Hawthorns 10
Public Area Working Group would be Thursday evening at the Midpen Headquarters on 11
the Los Altos side of El Camino. 12
13
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COMMISSIONER/BOARD MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, 15
ANNOUNCEMENTS, OR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 16
17
Commissioner Cribbs announced that March 18 to 24 is the first ever National Senior 18
Games Week in the United States. Palo Alto’s Senior Game Swimming Meet would be 19
on the 24th among other planned activities planned for seniors and their families. They 20
are open to anyone 50 and older. She hoped the Commission would keep track of the 21
week and go to the swimming meet. 22
23
Commissioner Greenfield expressed desire to get a follow-up summary and feedback 24
from Transportation Staff on the BPTC Plan. He would be happy to get involved in his 25
role as the Safe Routes liaison to work with Staff on understanding the schedule and 26
timeframe for coming back to the Parks Commission and now to better understand how 27
the feedback received had been summarized and how they can build upon that in future 28
meetings. 29
30
Ms. O’Kane offered to talk offline about that. 31
32
Chair Brown stated the timeframe they were shooting for was March. It was her 33
understanding that the first time they went was informational and the next time she 34
hoped they would have more information as well as clear ask on what the Commission’s 35
role is. She discussed having the E-bike ad-hoc providing at least and informational 36
update on where they stand to date for the March agenda. 37
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Ms. O’Kane announced that in March there would be a presentation from Stanford 1
having to do with a project at the Quarry Road Transit Center adjacent to El Camino 2
Park. She added there would be some follow-up work related to the E-bikes because 3
there has been some discussion that the Council motion may not necessarily be the same 4
as what the Commission ad-hoc is working on. 5
6
Commissioner Greenfield felt it was important for the ad-hoc to share with the full 7
Commission where they are right now. 8
9
Commissioner Kleinhaus commented they could present what they have done and then 10
wait until Staff comes back with their clarity as to what they should continue with. 11
12
Council Member Veenker agreed it was up to Council and Staff to make sure the ask was 13
being properly communicated and that could be sorted out before the next meeting. She 14
stressed the importance of clarity on what is responsive to the referral and what is not 15
when it is presented. 16
17
Ms. O’Kane stated that the Tower Well Park Dedication is being heard as an action item 18
on March 4. 19
20
Council Member Veenker wanted to make an adjustment to Commissioner Greenfield’s 21
report about the Tree Ordinance in that it was pulled from consent, and it will go back to 22
be addressed in the future. 23
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ADJOURNMENT 26
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Meeting adjourned at 9:36 P.M 28
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Summary Title: Concept Plans for Quarry Road Transit Connection to the Palo Alto Transit
Center
Title: Review of Concept Plans for Quarry Road Transit Connection to the Palo Alto Transit
Center and Partial Parkland Discontinuance Within El Camino Park
From: Philip Kamhi, Chief Transportation Official
Lead Department: Office of Transportation
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Parks and Recreation Commission review and provide input on concept plans for
the proposed Quarry Road Transit Connection and parkland discontinuance of a portion of El Camino Park .
Background
Transit and Shuttle Service at the Palo Alto Transit Center
The Palo Alto Transit Center (PATC) is the mobility hub of Palo Alto and has the second highest Caltrain ridership
on the corridor. SamTrans, Santa Clara Valley Transit Authority (VTA), and Dumbarton Express all run buses to
the PATC to complement Caltrain service and connect Palo Alto to San Mateo County, Santa Clara County, and
the East Bay, respectively. Additionally, Stanford’s Marguerite shuttle service and other private shuttles provide
last-mile connections from the PATC to campus facilities for employees and visitors.
In total, roughly 600 buses serve the transit center daily; roughly half are Marguerite shuttles. Transfers from
Marguerite shuttles account for approximately 40 percent of Caltrain daily boardings at the transit center.
Bus and shuttle services use a combination of 10 bus bays and curbside space at the PATC, including in
University Circle. Public transit service is restricted to the use of bus bays – bays are assigned to specific
operators and lines – and shuttles use stops along the curb of University Circle. Employer and Stanford Health
Care shuttles pick-up and drop-off in a parking area on the Palo Alto side of the station along Alma Street. The
station area also accommodates layovers for bus and shuttle service.
Caltrain electrification is currently scheduled to begin in fall 2024. Electrification will increase train service from
five to six trains per hour per direction during peak periods and from one to two trains per hour per direction
during off peak periods, including weekends. Bus and shuttle services are likely to increase to align with Caltrain
service.
The station is also a significant source for bicycle trips on Caltrain. Bicycle equipped passengers at the PATC are
estimated to be between 750-800 per day, pre-COVID. Palo Alto is the second highest bicycle ridership stop
along the Caltrain corridor at roughly 14 percent of all bicycle boardings and alightings, second only to 4th/
King in San Francisco. Assuming 10 percent of daily passengers travel in the peak hour, the Palo Alto Transit
Center serves roughly 75-80 Caltrain bicycle passengers/hour during the peak hour.
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The Proposed Quarry Road Transit Connection
As envisioned in the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan as Program T3.10.4 (2017), the proposed Quarry Road
Transit Connection project would create a direct transit connection between the transit center bus bays and El
Camino Real at the Quarry Road traffic signal, through an underused, passive portion of El Camino Park (see
Attachment A). The proposed project would allow buses that use the bus terminal to exit via Quarry Road to El
Camino Real rather than to circle back through University Avenue. The bus operators have estimated savings
of approximately 5-8 minutes per trip could be achieved by avoiding University Circle and directly connecting
with Quarry Road at El Camino Real.
The bus route reorganization would have secondary benefits to the University Avenue and University Circle area
by eliminating the need for some buses to make constrained turning movements in the corridor. Articulated
buses require additional turning radii to access the transit center from University Avenue which regularly causes
congestion and delays for vehicular traffic and creates additional conflict points for bicycles and pedestrians at
the gateway to Downtown Palo Alto.
The project would also include multiple pedestrian and bicycle improvements within El Camino Park adjacent
to or near the proposed transit connection and at the intersection of Quarry Road and El Camino Real.
Specifically, the proposed project would:
• Upgrade the crossing of El Camino Real to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists on both sides of
Quarry Road, which would reduce crossing time; and
• Add safety and accessibility measures at the intersection of Quarry Road and El Camino Real (e.g., curb
extensions and tighter turning radii, new pedestrian/bicycle ramps, pedestrian and bicycle refuge
islands, and high visibility bicycle markings are currently being considered).
Through the above improvements, there would be enhanced visibility of the existing multi-modal path to the
transit center and its connections to the existing Class 1 multi-modal path that connects to El Camino Park and
into Menlo Park, through the PATC to the Embarcadero Bike Path, and to the Stanford Perimeter Trail. These
connectivity improvements would also make the active park facilities in El Camino Park more accessible for
bikes, pedestrians and transit riders.
Designs for the transit connection are in the early stages, but all feasible options are under consideration,
ranging from a new connection providing full access to buses between the transit center and El Camino Real to
an outbound-only transit lane. The conceptual design under consideration is illustrated in Attachment B. The
preliminary concept design includes 12.5 foot wide inbound and outbound transit travel lanes (188 feet and 163
feet in length, respectively), with six-inch curbs, separated by a landscaped median that ranges in width
between 18-33 feet that would house existing utilities.1 The utilities accommodated in the median are
illustrated in Attachment C.
The projected area needed to implement this extension is approximately 0.24 acres, including 0.10 acres of a
landscaped median that, although part of the project area, would remain in its current state. Voter approval
would be requested to discontinue use for park purposes of a slightly larger area—approximately 0.33 acres
total—as minor shifts in the location of the proposed project may be required as project plans are finalized, to
better meet access, circulation, and other goals. The additional 0.09-acre area represents a ten-foot-wide buffer
1 Existing utilities on the parcel include water (SFPUC and City), communications (Qwest, Level3, etc.), electric
(City), gas (City), and a traffic signal (Caltrans).
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around the projected location of the improvements at the current conceptual design stage (see Attachment
D). Following completion of project construction, the City would anticipate re -dedicating for park purposes the
portion of the discontinued area that was not needed for the project .
The proposed project could require the removal of approximately 15 trees, and there are an additional three
trees in the project buffer area. The project could include lighting, benches, signage and low level, drought
tolerant landscape planting, mulch, and additional tree planting. Any lighting and planting would be
harmonious and compatible with the existing conditions in El Camino Park.
Other modifications and improvements could include, but are not limited to, wayfinding si gns, additional
striping and green bike lanes to help identify buffered lanes and highlight any potential conflict areas between
buses, transit and bicyclists in the corridor, crosswalk striping, and refuge islands.
Discussion
El Camino Park consists of approximately 10.75 acres of land and is leased by Stanford to the City under a 1915
lease that currently is set to expire in 2042. The Park has been dedicated by the City by ordinance for
recreational and conservation purposes. Palo Alto Ordinance No. 2252 (Sept. 13, 1965); Palo Alto Municipal
Code § 22.08.230 & Ex. A-19.
The proposed project would develop a strip of the underused, passive portion of El Camino Park to provide a
direct transit connection to the transit center, where bike and pedestrian access are currently occurring. This
area of the park does not have playing fields but does provide circulation throughput that serves the park. The
project is akin to a park improvement project in that it improves multi-modal movement to and through the
park. The proposed transit connection would enhance the use and enjoyment of El Camino Park and the
recreational amenities provided to the residents of Palo Alto and the surrounding communities.
The Transit Connection project would:
• Add to the Park’s recreational facilities by enhancing the connections to the Class 1 path through the
Park for pedestrians and bicycles;
• Better connect the Park to the regional pedestrian and bicycle network, including the Stanford
Perimeter Trail, by enhancing the crossing and safety at El Camino Real;
• Improve the visual and physical connectivity to the Park and the transit center from El Camino Real for
pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users;
• Reduce traffic congestion in the immediate vicinity of the Park by creating a more efficient traffic flow
for buses, which also would serve to reduce emissions of air pollutants and noise from vehicular traffic;
• Reduce bus traffic and turnarounds at the transit center, which similarly would serve to reduce air
emissions and noise from buses and also would improve the pedestrian and bicycle circulation
environment;
• Activate an inactive area of the Park through functional design, which would provide a safety benefit;
• Improve the functionality of the transit center for those who use public transportation, including those
who use public transportation to get to and from the Park; and
• Improve access to the Park and connectivity with surrounding properties, both for pedestrians and
cyclists who use the sections of the path to the north and south of the Park and for people traveling by
public transportation.
Discontinuance of Parkland Use
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Article VIII of the Palo Alto City Charter governs dedicated parklands and states as follows:
All lands owned or controlled by the city which are or will be used for park, playground, recreation or
conservation purposes shall be dedicated for such purposes by ordinance.
No land heretofore or hereafter dedicated for such purposes shall be sold or otherwise disposed of, nor
shall its use be abandoned or discontinued except pursuant to majority vote of the electorate. Any
election and related procedures under Article VIII shall conform to the provisions se t forth in general
law as it existed January 1, 1965, except that the council may call such election by majority vote.
No substantial building, construction, reconstruction or development upon or with respect to any lands
so dedicated shall be made except pursuant to ordinance subject to referendum.
Given that El Camino Park has been dedicated by the City for recreational and conservation purposes, a
majority vote of the electorate is necessary to discontinue from park use the portion of El Camino Park that
would be used to facilitate transit circulation.
Preliminary design concept alternatives have estimated that up to 0.24 acres of parkland would be required to
accommodate the proposed transit connection, with an additional 0.09 acres of buffer for project design that
would be rededicated for park use after project construction.
Timeline
In the coming months, the Palo Alto City Council is expected to consider placing the proposed parkland
discontinuance on the ballot for the Fall 2024 election. If the ballot measure passes, the City and Stanford will
work with the transit agency stakeholders and Caltrans to further develop construction plans and apply for
necessary permits.
Resource Impact
The preliminary cost estimate for constructing the proposed project is estimated to be between $3-3.5M but is
dependent on ultimate design. These costs will be updated as the design is advanced and construction
documents are prepared. Funding is being pursued through MTC but may not be identified until after the ballot
measure is considered by voters.
Policy Implications
The proposed Quarry Road Transit Connection Project would advance numerous Comprehensive Plan policies
and programs, as follows:
Policy T-1.11 Encourage continued enhancement of the Caltrain stations as important transportation
nodes for the city.
Program T1.11.1 Collaborate with Stanford University, VTA, Caltrain and other agencies to pursue
improvements to the Palo Alto Transit Center area aimed at enhancing the pedestrian experience and
improving circulation and access for all modes, including direct access to El Camino Real for transit
vehicles.
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Program T3.10.3 Provide safe, convenient pedestrian, bicycle and transit connections between the
Stanford Shopping Center/Medical Center areas and housing along the Sand Hill Road/Quarry Road
corridors to Palo Alto Transit Center, Downtown Palo Alto and other primary destinations.
Program T3.10.4 Pursue extension of Quarry Road for transit, pedestrians and bicyclists to access the
Palo Alto Transit Center from El Camino Real. Also study the feasibility of another pedestrian and bicycle
underpass of Caltrain at Everett Street.
Policy T-8.2 Coordinate with local and regional agencies and Caltrans to maintain and improve
transportation infrastructure in Palo Alto, including the Multi-Modal Transit Center.
Environmental Review
The proposed project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The proposed project
comes within the statutory exemption for “facility extensions not to exceed four miles in length which are
required for the transfer of passengers from or to exclusive public mass transit guideway or busway public
transit services.” Pub. Res. Code § 21080(b)(12). Due to its fixed location, Caltrain qualifies as an “exclusive
public mass transit guideway” service. The proposed project would extend the ex isting transit center facility by
approximately 210 feet, through the intersection of Quarry Road and El Camino Real, to facilitate the transfer
of passengers to Caltrain, among other public transit services. Staff continues to investigate whether any
additional CEQA exemptions also may apply to the proposed project.
Attachments
Attachment A: Transit and Multi-model Connections
Attachment B: Conceptual Site Plan
Attachment C: Utilities in the Landscaped Median
Attachment D: Project Buffer
Approved By: Philip Kamhi, Chief Transportation Official
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Attachment A: Transit and Multi-model Connections
The proposed project includes the improvements shown conceptually above as “Future
Quarry Road Transit Way” and the pedestrian/bike crossing on the southern leg of El
Camino Real at Quarry Road. The figure above is not intended to identify the exact
proposed location of these improvements.
Other potential improvements depicted above as “Future Path” and “Long-Term,”
including the “Future Everett Ave. Tunnel Connection,” are not part of the proposed
project and are illustrated here only for context.
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Attachment B: Conceptual Site Plan
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Attachment C: Utilities in the Landscaped Median
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Attachment D: Project Buffer
A 10-foot-wide project buffer is illustrated in red.
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Parks and Recreation Commission
Staff Report
From: Kristen O'Kane, Community Services Director
Meeting Date: March 26, 2024
Report #: 2402-2618
TITLE
Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) Update: Share and confirm the vision
statement and goals, share and receive feedback on the existing conditions technical analysis,
and share and discuss upcoming engagement
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Parks and Recreation Commission discuss and provide feedback on the
Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan update. This is a discussion only and no action will
be taken.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report provides an overview on the effort to update the City’s existing 2012 Bicycle and
Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP), including an overview of the feedback received during the
introductory first phase of the project and the existing conditions analysis for biking, walking, and
wheeling in Palo Alto. The analysis includes a review of electric bicycles (e-bikes) and shared
micro-mobility in Palo Alto, an inventory of bicycle parking in Downtown Palo Alto, a Citywide
review of Bicycle Level of Traffic Stress (LTS), an assessment of out-of-direction travel required
by major barriers, an analysis of five- and ten-year collisions history, and an evaluation of walking
and biking trips across the city.
Key takeaways are:
•The most stressful segments for bicycles are located on El Camino Real, Alma Street,
Oregon Expressway, San Antonio Road, and Foothill Expressway.
•About 68% of street miles in Palo Alto are low stress for bicycles (LTS 1 or LTS 2), yet low
stress streets are often interrupted by high stress roadways and intersections.
•Major barriers and locations in the analysis include Oregon Expressway, Adobe Creek,
Barron Creek, Matadero Creek, Rail, Palo Alto Station, Palo Alto Transit Center, and El
Camino Real/Embarcadero Road, California Avenue Station, El Camino Real/California
Avenue, San Antonio Station, El Camino Real/Charleston Road.
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•Based on the ten most recent years (2012-2022) of collision data, there has been a
general decrease in the total number of pedestrian and bicycle involved collisions.
o Pedestrian-involved collisions tended to be more severe during dark conditions,
however, the majority of nighttime pedestrian-involved collisions took place in areas
with streetlights.
o Broadside collisions are the most frequent type of bicycle collision that occurred in Palo
Alto within the five-year study period. The fatal and severe injury bicyclist-involved
collisions predominantly occurred in areas where streetlights were absent.
•Based on location data modeled by Replica, the highest percentage of biking trips were
associated with schools and colleges (17%), followed by shopping (11%) and work (8%)
related trips.
o With only 7% of the population, Hispanics and Latinos represent 20% of the total
bike trips. With about 15% of the population, people age 18-34 made almost
45% of the total bike trips.
o Over 59% of biking trips take place between 12 noon and 9 p.m., with the peak
time observed at 3 p.m., representing 13% of the total bike trips.
o The average bike trip is 14.2 minutes, and the median travel time is 10 minutes.
o The average bike trip length is 2.5 miles, and 56% of trips are less than 2 miles in
length, 23% are between 2 and 4 miles, and 20% are over 2 miles.
o The highest number of bicyclists travel to or from Stanford University.
•Based on location data modeled by Replica, the highest percentage of walking trips
were associated with shopping (31%), work (9%), and restaurant (9%) related trips.
o With only 7% of the population, Hispanics and Latinos represent 20% of the total
walking trips. With about 15% of the population, people age 18-34 made almost
37% of the total walking trips.
o The peak time for pedestrian trips occurs between 3 and 5 p.m.
o Most walking trips are under 5 minutes with a mean of 11 minutes and median
of 7 minutes.
o Most walking trips (56%) are under 0.5-mile, and 96% of trips are under 2 miles.
o The highest number of pedestrians travel to or from Stanford University with
other walking hubs in downtown, Barron Park, and Adobe Meadow/Meadow
Park.
BACKGROUND
At its May 17, 2021 meeting, the City Council adopted a resolution supporting the City’s grant
application for the State Transportation Development Act (TDA) Article 3 Funds for the BPTP
Update project, and in September 2021, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC)
approved of the allocation of Transportation Development Act Article 3 (TDA3) funds to the City
of Palo Alto in the amount of $334,852 for the purposes of updating the 2012 Bicycle and
Pedestrian Transportation Plan. At the June 19, 2023 meeting, the City Council approved a
professional services contract with Kittelson & Associates, Inc. with subconsultants Mobycon, to
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prepare this BPTP Update. At the January 22, 2024 meeting, the City Council received an
Informational Report as an overview on the BPTP Update effort.1
The City’s existing 2012 BPTP is a critical planning, policy, and implementation document that
supports efforts to improve the safety and attractiveness of walking, biking, and wheeling as a
means of transportation and recreation. The objectives of the BPTP Update are to seek robust
community feedback; reevaluate implementation progress from previous plans to adjust
recommendations for new policies, facilities, and programs; and to determine appropriate
criteria and metrics to prioritize recommendations and network routes. The BPTP Update effort
will also further investigate safety data to propose impactful recommendations, explore the role
of emerging transportation technologies such as electric-bicycles and micro-mobility devices, and
establish big-picture planning to expand bicycling and walking for all user types in support of the
City’s 2030 Comprehensive Plan, the Sustainability/Climate Action Plan, a Safe System approach,
and other planning documents and policies. The BPTP Update effort will be a 24-month process,
with the BPTP Update adoption anticipated for Summer 2025.
ANALYSIS
The existing conditions and needs analysis are underway. The following section presents a brief
discussion of the analysis approach and findings for each of the topics covered in this task.
E-bikes and Shared Micro-mobility. Electrification of the transport system has expanded in
various ways with the development of electric bicycles (e-bikes) (which now out-sell electric cars
in the USA) and e-scooters. The widespread use of internet-connected mobile phones has also
allowed shared mobility to take off with bike, e-bike, and e-scooter sharing systems being
implemented in cities around the world.
Electric Bicycles. The State of California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) defines e-bikes as
“a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts.”
Within this definition, the DMV has established three classes of e-bikes.
•Class 1: A low speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle equipped with a motor which provides
assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when a speed
of 20 mph is reached.
•Class 2: A low speed throttle-assisted electric bicycle equipped with a motor used
exclusively to propel the bicycle and NOT capable of providing assistance when a speed
of 20 mph is reached.
1 Palo Alto City Council Meeting January 22, 2024. Information Report 14: Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation
Plan (BPTP) Update: an active transportation plan – introduction and overview, community engagement, context
and baseline conditions, and next steps.
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/meetings/ItemWithTemplateType?id=3829&meetingTemplateType=2&comp
iledMeetingDocumentId=8932
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•Class 3: A low speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle equipped with a speedometer, and a
motor which provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide
assistance when a speed of 28 mph is reached.
With e-bikes allowing people to travel further by bicycle, e-bikes can contribute to mode shifts
and decongestion if they are replacing trips that would otherwise be made by personal
automobile. Although research has found decongestion benefits to be marginal compared to the
health benefits, these benefits are still relevant in the grand scheme of the transportation
landscape. Studies have shown that e-bike riders travel further and cycle more often with one
study from 2020 finding that after purchasing an e-bike, riders increased their total bicycle usage
from 1.3 miles to 5.7 miles per day and that their share of all trips made by bike increased from
17 per cent to 49 per cent. Although the benefits of e-bikes far outweigh the disbenefits, there
are some challenges that must be addressed. E-bikes can allow users to travel at relatively high
speeds which may present a safety risk to e-bike users and other active users (pedestrians,
traditional cyclists) around them when there is a great speed differential, though the kinetic
energy involved in a crash between an e-bike and pedestrian is significantly less than that
involved in an automobile crash. While e-bikes are not drastically different than traditional
bicycles, safely and effectively accommodating them in the transportation system requires
careful thought of some specific considerations. For example, to mitigate conflicts between
modes, wider facilities should be implemented to ensure faster users can overtake slower ones
and additional separation could be implemented to reduce the risk of crashes at conflict points.
Design guidance developed for this BPTP Update will consider potential increases in e-bike usage.
Shared Micro-mobility. The United States Department of Transportation Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA) defines micro-mobility as “any small, low-speed, human- or electric-
powered transportation device, including bicycles, scooters, electric-assist bicycles, electric
scooters (e-scooters), and other small, lightweight, wheeled conveyances”. Generally, micro-
mobility vehicles (or devices) are expected to operate in the same road space as bicycles, using
bike lanes and paths if available, otherwise sharing the roadway with motorists. While there is
no California statewide law specifically permitting or prohibiting riding a bicycle on a sidewalk,
the State DMV does not allow motorized scooters to be used on sidewalks and does not allow
them to exceed 15 mph. E-scooter users under the age of 18 must wear a helmet and users must
have a valid driver’s license.
Over the past decade, a variety of shared micro-mobility systems have emerged with the most
common being shared e-scooters and e-bike share systems. While e-bikes and e-scooters are the
most common form of micro-mobility, some niche forms are emerging including e-cargo bikes,
mopeds, and neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs), although these forms of mobility are yet to
become widespread.
Advancements in technology have allowed many systems to now use a hybrid docked and
dockless system based on geofencing. Municipalities and operators can now designate specific
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zones for parking shared micro-mobility vehicles, reducing the need for docking infrastructure
while still allowing the municipality control over where vehicles can park.
The City of Palo Alto adopted a one-year bicycle and electric scooter sharing pilot program in
March 2018 (CMR #8546) and developed permit guidelines for vendors to operate within the City
of Palo Alto. The pilot program was extended by Council in 2019 (Resolution #9822) and
subsequently in 2020 (Resolution #9882). The pilot program implementation was initially delayed
due to staff resources and delayed further because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Staff
recommended extending the pilot program from its expiration date of March 31, 2022 for an
additional 18 months to test the concept of private bicycle and electric scooter sharing systems
in Palo Alto.2 However, the extension has not been implemented and other shared micro-
mobility partnerships have not been pursued since the 37-bike system run by Motivate was
discontinued.
Bicycle Parking Inventory. Bicycle parking is an essential component of a complete bicycle
network. To better understand the supply and demand for bicycle parking within the active
downtown core of Palo Alto, a data collection effort was undertaken using the ESRI Survey123
application and tablets. The data collection area included three parallel streets – University
Avenue, Hamilton Avenue, Lytton Avenue – and cross streets between the Caltrain station and
Middlefield Road. A total of 142 data points were collected. Each data point represents one bike
parking location (e.g., a bike rack or bike corral). For each data point the following information
was obtained:
•Location of bike parking (University Avenue, Parallel Street, or Cross Street)
•Latitude and longitude of each data point
•Total number of bike parking spaces
•Number of bike parking spaces per rack
•Number of occupied bike parking spaces
•Type of bike rack (Inverted U, Series Inverted U, Wave, Locker, Elevated or Other)
•The presence of a bike corral (Yes/No)
•Location of bike rack/corral (on the sidewalk or on the street)
•Condition of bike rack
•Classification of bike parking as short-term or long-term
•For short-term parking, proximity to the front entrance of the building it serves (within
50 feet)
•Whether the bike parking is covered (Yes/No)
•Security level of the bike parking, specifically if it's secured to the ground
2 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/v/1/agendas-minutes-reports/reports/city-manager-reports-
cmrs/year-archive/2020-2/id-11523.pdf?t=43227.24
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•Presence of signage and/or wayfinding information at the parking location (optional)
•Additional notes on observations (optional)
•Photos for visual documentation
There are a total of 679 bike parking spaces in the survey area. University Avenue features 180
bike parking spaces at 61 bike parking locations, while Hamilton and Lytton Avenues combined
offer 202 spaces at 43 locations, and the surrounding streets contribute an additional 297 spaces
at 38 locations, including the Palo Alto Caltrain station. Approximately 90% of these spaces are
located on the sidewalks and the remaining 10% are located on the street. There is a broad
variety of bicycle rack types, with inverted U-racks (circular, rectangular) being predominant.
Almost 9% of spaces are covered.
A higher utilization of bicycle parking was noted along University Avenue and near the Caltrain
station. Spaces were generally available in the bike racks during the observation period (between
10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on December 14, 2023. People were observed to choose to lock bicycles to
sign posts or trees, presumably desiring to park as close to their destination as possible. This was
observed to occur even when space was available in a nearby rack.
Bicycle Level of Traffic Stress (LTS). Bicycle level of traffic stress (LTS) is a rating given to a road
segment or crossing indicating the traffic stress it imposes on bicyclists. Levels of traffic stress
range from 1 to 4 with LTS 1 indicating low stress facility and LTS 4 indicating a high stress facility.
The segment analysis considers roadway functional classification, vehicle volume, posted or
prevailing vehicle speeds, number of vehicle lanes, the presence of on-street parking, and vehicle
parking and bicycle lane widths. The crossing analysis considers the right-turn lane configuration
and length, bike lane approach, vehicle turning speeds, and the presence of a median refuge. The
draft Bicycle LTS maps are included as Attachments B, C, and D.
As shown in the Bicycle LTS maps (Attachments B, C, and D), the most stressful segments for
bicyclists are located on El Camino Real, Alma Street, Oregon Expressway, San Antonio Road, and
Foothill Expressway. Many streets with existing bicycle facilities were classified as low-stress, LTS
1 or LTS 2. Approximately 68% of street miles in Palo Alto are LTS 1 or LTS 2. This map illustrates
how low stress streets in Palo Alto are often interrupted by high stress roadways and
intersections.
Major Barriers. The analysis of major barriers examines linear barriers and barriers near major
transit stations that require people to take detours and increase the length of walking and biking
trips. The draft barriers maps are included as Attachments E through K.
•US 101: The lack of crossing opportunities across US 101 results in noticeably longer
walking trips, including some paths that are more than four times longer than the straight
line crossing path. Of the existing crossing locations, the walking and bicycling bridges
provide the highest level of separation from vehicles, while the Embarcadero Road and
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San Antonio Road crossings include vehicle-oriented facilities such as channelized free
highway on- and off-ramps. The most significant gap occurs between the two walking and
bicycling bridges, limiting access to the Adobe Creek Loop Trail.
•Oregon Expressway: The Oregon Expressway does not create significantly longer
pedestrian crossing paths as crossings with curb ramps, crosswalks, and traffic signals are
generally located every quarter mile.
•Adobe Creek: The lack of crossing opportunities of Adobe Creek, especially to the south,
results in out-of-distance travel of approximately two times the trip length. Opportunities
to cross Adobe Creek include Louis Road, Middlefield Road, Charleston Road, Alma Street,
and El Camino Real (all of which include sidewalks). There are also two walking- and
bicycling-only connections: a walkway connecting the Miller Avenue cul-de-sac to Wilkie
Way, and the Los Altos-Palo Alto Bike Path (connecting Los Altos Avenue to Arastradero
Road). The greatest out of direction travel occurs in the area between the Los Altos-Palo
Alto Bike Path and the Foothill Expressway, where the creek runs between the Alta Mesa
Memorial Park and a residential neighborhood.
•Barron Creek: While some paths across Barron Creek are longer than the straight long
crossing distance, they are usually less than double that distance due to the availability of
closely spaced crossing facilities. Crossing opportunities are generally located every 1,100
feet north of Waverly Street, and every 300 feet south of Waverly Street and sidewalks
are provided on streets crossing the creek.
•Matadero Creek: Lack of crossing opportunities of Matadero Creek result in increased
travel distances of up to 1.75 times, especially to cross the canal west of Bryant Street.
The presence of the rail line along the southern tip of the canal’s above-ground alignment
further increases the out of distance travel in that area.
•Rail: There is substantial variation in crossing opportunities along the length of the rail
line. The longest distances are near Seale Avenue, Colorado Avenue, El Dorado Avenue,
Loma Verde Avenue, and El Verano Avenue. There is an approximately 0.65-mile gap
between the Churchill Avenue and California Avenue crossings with a midpoint at Seale
Avenue. Peers Park is located between these two crossing locations on the west side of
the railroad tracks, across the tracks from residential neighborhoods. The Churchill
Avenue crossing is at grade. The California Avenue crossing is a grade-separated
undercrossing that is not ADA compliant, and bicyclists must dismount to navigate the
steep undercrossing if others are present in the tunnel. There is an approximately 1.3-
mile gap between the California Avenue and Meadow Drive crossings (note, while the
Oregon Expressway crosses the tracks, sidewalks are not provided). The Meadow Drive
crossing is at grade.
•Palo Alto Station, Palo Alto Transit Center, and El Camino Real/Embarcadero Road:
Primary barriers include the presence of several channelized turn lanes, a number of
intersections missing crosswalk markings, and there is a gap in the sidewalk network along
Palo Alto Avenue east of El Camino Real.
•California Avenue Station, and El Camino Real/California Avenue: Primary barriers
include missing crosswalk markings and presence of a channelized right-turn lane at the
intersection of El Camino Real and Page Mill Road.
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•San Antonio Station and El Camino Real/Charleston Road: The primary barrier in this
area is a lack of sidewalks on a portion of San Antonio Road and on residential streets.
Safety and Collisions. A high-level review of ten years of collision data was conducted to identify
a general trend in the number and severity of pedestrian and bicycle collisions. The most recent
five years of collision data was conducted to identify patterns or trends based on temporal
characteristics, lighting conditions, location characteristics (intersection versus segment),
primary collision factors, age, and gender. These collision profiles provide a better understanding
of the common risks, and where and how efforts should be focused to most effectively make
streets safer for people walking and biking.
Based on the ten most recent years (2012-2022) of collision data, there has been a general
decrease in the total number of pedestrian and bicycle involved collisions.
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Throughout the five years (2018-2022) under more detailed review, a total of 104 pedestrian and
257 bicycle collisions were reported in the city of Palo Alto, with three collisions involving both
pedestrians and bicyclists. Around 12%, or 12, of the pedestrian collisions resulted in a fatality (3
collisions) or severe injury (9 collisions). Around 5%, or 13, of the bicycle collisions resulted in a
fatality (one collision) or severe injury (12 collisions). Collision maps are included as Attachments
L, M, and N.
Pedestrian-involved collisions tended to be more severe during dark conditions. Around 29% (30
collisions) of the injury pedestrian collisions and almost half (six collisions) of the fatal and severe
injury pedestrian collisions occurred at night. Although most nighttime pedestrian-involved
collisions take place in areas with streetlights, the effectiveness of this lighting is inconsistent.
Often, streetlights may not be bright enough or may be spaced too far apart. This issue
particularly affects pedestrians and those on sidewalks, as streetlights are often designed
primarily with vehicles in travel lanes in mind.
The most frequent type of bicycle collision that occurred in Palo Alto within the five-year study
period are broadside collisions, constituting 61% (156 collisions), followed by sideswipe collisions
at 13% (34 collisions). Considering fatal and severe injury bicycle collisions, broadside collisions
make up 54% (7 collisions), while head-on and hit object collisions comprise 15% (2 collisions)
each. The fatal and severe injury bicyclist-involved collisions predominantly occurred in areas
where streetlights were absent.
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Activity and Demand. The analysis utilizes various data sources, including counts and location
based data, to estimate existing and future walking, biking, and rolling activity in the City and
forecast benefits of investments in the active transportation network. To understand existing
walking and biking activity, Kittelson utilized Replica, a big data mobility analytics platform that
leverages a composite of location data collected from personal mobile devices and in-dashboard
telematics. Replica's seasonal trips tables and demographic and employment tables (Places) are
created using high-fidelity activity-based travel models that simulate the movements of
residents, visitors, and commercial vehicles in a given area. Replica produces models at the
“megaregions” level, most of which cover between 10 and 50 million people and multiple states,
for a typical weekday and typical weekend day in a given season. Data outputs can be queried
down to the network link level. Replica's weekly Origin-Destination (O-D) pairs and Vehicle Miles
Traveled (VMT) tables (Trends) is a nationwide activity-based model updated each week with
near-real-time data on mobility, consumer spending, and land use. Replica's weekly tables have
census-tract-level fidelity with mobility data including origins and destinations, trip mode, and
residential vehicle miles traveled.
Replica Data is based on information collected from travelers, it a) only provides a sample of the
total trips being made, and b) also requires normalization and expansion of location-based data
via a variety of algorithms. The identity of individual drivers or smart devices is not known by the
project team. As such, its accuracy may be questioned. However, research to date has shown
that the accuracy of Replica data for such data as trip origins and destinations and other travel
pattern information increases as the sample size increases. Additionally, since Replica data is
dependent upon smartphone tracking, it is possible that some inherent biases in the sample base
may occur because a higher proportion of members of certain demographic groups may not
share location on their smartphones; hence, these groups may be under-represented in data. For
more information: https://documentation.replicahq.com/docs/seasonal-mobility-model-
methodology-summary-places.
The Spring 2023 data from Replica includes approximately 91,800 biking trips by 58,200 riders
and 142,000 walking trips by 96,900 pedestrians originating within two miles of city limits. The
dataset is a complete trip and population table for a typical weekday and typical weekend day
for the selected season and region. Model inputs include American Community Survey 5-year
estimates, TIGER/Line data, LEHD Origin-Destination Employment Statistics Data, and ACS Public
Use Microdata Sample (PUMS), the Census Transportation Planning Products Program (CTPP) as
well as data from the National Center for Education Statistics, US Department of Education,
building data and proprietary parcel data and points of interest data.
•Biking Activity. Based on Replica data, the highest percentage of biking trips was
associated with schools and colleges (17%), followed by shopping (11%) and work (8%)
related trips. With only 7% of the population, Hispanics and Latinos represent 20% of the
total bike trips. With about 15% of the population, people age 18-34 made almost 45% of
the total bike trips. The highest percentage of trips in the morning occurs at 7 a.m.,
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constituting around 11% of the overall bike trips. Over 59% of trips take place between
12 noon and 9 p.m., with the peak time observed at 3 p.m., representing 13% of the total
bike trips. The average bike trip is 14.2 minutes, and the median travel time is 10 minutes.
The average bike trip length is 2.5 miles, and 56% of trips are less than 2 miles in length,
23% are between 2 and 4 miles, and 20% are over 2 miles. The highest number of bicyclists
travel to or from Stanford University.
•Walking Activity. Based on Replica data, the highest percentage of walking trips were
associated with shopping (31%), work (9%), and restaurant (9%) related trips. With only
7% of the population, Hispanic and Latino represent 20% of the total walking trips. With
about 15% of the population, people age 18-34 made almost 37% of the total walk trips.
The peak time for pedestrian trips occurs between 3 and 5 p.m. Most walking trips are
under 5 minutes with a mean of 11 minutes and median of 7 minutes. Most walking
trips (56%) are under 0.5-mile, and 96% of trips are under 2 miles. The highest number
of pedestrians travel to or from Stanford University with other walking hubs in
downtown, Barron Park, and Adobe Meadow/Meadow Park.
NEXT STEPS
The City’s Office of Transportation will host a multi-day working session April 16-18, 2024 to
confirm the vision and goals and to draft network criteria and performance measures that will be
used to identify and evaluate project, program, and policy recommendations.
Following committee and Council review and input on the existing conditions and needs analyses,
the project team will develop network and corridor criteria to identify and prioritize project,
program, and policy recommendations. Draft recommendations will be brought for committee
and Council review in Fall/Winter 2024.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Phase 1 Community Engagement Themes
Phase 1 community engagement themes included an interactive map, public survey (developed
and distributed in partnership with the Safe Streets for All Action Plan team), a series of seven
committee and working group meetings, an in-person pop-up event at Bike Palo Alto, and a
virtual community meeting visioning workshop. An overview of what we heard through these
Phase 1 engagement activities is presented in this section.
•Interactive Map. A total of 956 unique comments were received between September 28
and December 31, 2023. Commenters had the option to select four different comment
categories, including safety concern, infrastructure needed, destination you want to
access, and other. Over half of the comments (54 percent, or 516 comments) were
categorized as a "Safety Concern", followed by 29 percent (276) of comments categorized
as "Infrastructure Needed", 14 percent (136) of comments were categorized as “Other”,
and the remaining 3 percent (28) of comments were categorized as “Destination You
Want to Access”. Participants were given the option to view and like comments from
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other users. Notably, comments advocating for improved infrastructure to address
connectivity gaps in existing bicycle facilities, safety enhancements, wider bike lanes for
increased rider comfort, and the provision of bike infrastructure near schools garnered
the highest number of likes. The project team will be further reviewing the comments in
the upcoming months.
•Committee and Staff Working Group Meetings. The BPTP Update team engaged with
several standing committees and commissions and created a staff working group to guide
the development of the work. The Phase 1 working group and committee feedback covers
a wide range of topics related to safety, transportation infrastructure, across barrier
connections, transformative technologies, and future development. Key themes that
emerged from these meetings include:
1. Safety is a top priority. People expressed concerns about pedestrian and bicyclist
safety at various locations, especially for students walking to and from school.
2. There is demand for high quality transportation infrastructure. Suggestions to support
more walking and biking included implementation of more bicycle boulevards with
traffic calming treatments on neighborhood streets, as well as additional secure and
long-term bicycle parking, and separated bike lanes on higher speed higher volume
roadways. There was general agreement that quality was more important than
quantity when it comes to transportation infrastructure for walking and biking.
3. Across barrier connections are needed. Committee and working group members
recognized the presence of major barriers, such as U.S. 101 and the Caltrain tracks,
and acknowledged the need for low-stress connections to overcome these barriers.
There was a sense of urgency around selecting a preferred location for grade-
separated crossing(s) of the Caltrain tracks.
4. Power and potential of transformative technologies. The presence of new travel
modes, including e-bikes and e-scooters, as well as the availability of new
technologies such as LiDar and vehicle to infrastructure sensors, has rapidly changed
the landscape of transportation planning and facility design. Committee and working
group members expressed an interest in considering and incorporating these
transformative technologies in the BPTP Update analysis and recommendations.
5. Plan for the future. There is substantial growth planned in Palo Alto, particularly
within select priority development areas. The BPTP Update must consider land use
changes and development patterns.
•Bike Palo Alto (October 1, 2023). The BPTP Update team participated in the Bike Palo Alto
event, which was held on October 1, 2023 from 1-3 p.m. at Fair Meadow Elementary
School. The team received comments from about 40 participants who expressed concerns
related to walking and biking safety, supported implementation of protected bike lanes,
and identified El Camino Real as a barrier to connectivity within the city.
•Visioning Workshop (January 31, 2024). The goal of the visioning workshop was to
identify the direction of the BPTP Update and establish the vision and objectives for the
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plan. The draft vision statement and objectives created during this process are as
follows:
o Draft Vision Statement: In Palo Alto, we envision a city where sustainable
transportation thrives, embodying safety, efficiency, and enjoyment. Our streets
will form a connected, cohesive network, supporting walking and cycling with
tree-lined paths, efficient shortcuts, and secure bike parking. We commit to
overcoming barriers, ensuring every part of our community is easily traversed on
foot or by bike, fostering a connected region where sustainable transportation is
a shared priority. Palo Alto aspires to be a leader, with comprehensive
programming encouraging everyone to embrace sustainable modes. We invest
more in walking and biking infrastructure, ensuring equity and accessibility for
all. Embracing the Safe System Approach, our city prioritizes safety and aims for
a future where walking or biking for short trips is more convenient than driving,
shaping a city where every journey, no matter how small, contributes to a more
sustainable and connected community.
o Draft Objectives:
▪Safe and Inclusive: Prioritizing safety for all road users and ensuring
equitable access to pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure across the
community.
▪Connected and Accessible: Featuring a convenient and interconnected
network of sidewalks, bike lanes, and trails that provide efficient travel
options and easy access to transit.
▪Comfortable and Enjoyable: Enhancing the comfort and enjoyment of
walking and cycling through amenities such as shade, greenery, and well-
designed streetscapes.
▪Community-Driven: Fostering community engagement and participation
in promoting active transportation, supported by education,
programming, and infrastructure investments.
▪Integrated and Collaborative: Collaborating with neighboring cities to
create a seamless and integrated regional network of pedestrian and
bicycle infrastructure.
The draft vision, objectives, and performance measures are included as Attachment Q.
These will be refined with input from council, committee, and working group members
and revisited at the STAR Analysis workshop as part of the multi-day in-person
collaborative work session on April 16-18, 2024.
Phase 2 Community Engagement Activities
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Phase 2 engagement activities are planned to include a multi-day working session with a second
series of committee and working group meetings, a multi-day collaborative in-person
community working session, and a community meeting.
•Project website and interactive map. The project website can be accessed at:
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/bikepedplan. The website will continue to be updated
with relevant material and information.
•Committee and Working Group Meetings. The project team will engage the following
committees and working groups at during Phase 2:
o Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee (March 5, 2024)
o City School Transportation Safety Committee (March 28, 2024)
o Planning and Transportation Commission (March 27, 2024)
o Parks and Recreation Commission (March 26, 2024)
o City Council (Spring 2024)
o Interagency Staff Working Group (March 27, 2024)
•Street Level Engagement: The project team will lead and participate in the following
street level engagement activities during Phase 2:
o Earth Day (Sunday, April 21, 2024). This event will include tabling to seek
additional feedback on the vision and goals and seek input on community needs
and recommendations.
o Walkabout(s)/Bikeabout(s). Walk and bikeabouts will be planned for April 16-18,
2024 in collaboration with community partners. These events are in the planning
and coordination stages and the timing and location of these events will be
posted to the project website and promoted through social media and other
publications.
•Bicycle Network Development Workshop. Attendees will participate in a “STAR Analysis.”
A STAR analysis is a visual way to identify priority origin/destination pairs within the
transportation network and results in a conceptual key bicycle corridor network based
on existing desire lines. The workshop will offer stakeholders a hands-on approach to
explore key factors including local routes, travel behaviors, and infrastructure gaps. The
workshop will include:
o Definition of origins and destinations
o Development of the star patterns
o Bundling and optimization of the routes.
The outcomes from the STAR Analysis be used to verify, modify, remove, and create the
active transportation network recommendations.
•Community Meetings. One in-person community meeting will be held in Fall 2024. The
goal of this second meeting is to refine project recommendations and gather feedback
on prioritization.
FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
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The BPTP Update project cost is $333,945, including a 10 percent contingency. The City is
eligible to cover project expenditures under MTC’s TDA Article 3 program and can request an
allocation of up to $334,852 for the effort. City staff anticipates that all eligible costs incurred
will be reimbursed through the TDA Article 3 payment reimbursement process. These funds are
included in the FY 2024 Adopted Budget in the Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan
Implementation Project (PL-04010).
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Existing Bicycle Facilities Map (Final)
Attachment B: Bicycle Level of Traffic Stress Map - Citywide (Draft)
Attachment C: Bicycle Level of Traffic Stress Map - Bicycle Facilities (Draft)
Attachment D: Bicycle Level of Traffic Stress Map - Intersections (Draft)
Attachment E: Barriers Map - US 101 (Draft)
Attachment F: Barriers Map - Adobe Creek (Draft)
Attachment G: Barriers Map - Barron Creek (Draft)
Attachment H: Barriers Map - Matadero Creek (Draft)
Attachment I: Barriers Map - Oregon Expressway (Draft)
Attachment J: Barriers Map - Rail Corridor (Draft)
Attachment K: Barriers Map - Transit Station Areas (Draft)
Attachment L: Collision Map - Pedestrian and Bicycle Collisions (Draft)
Attachment M: Collision Map - Pedestrian Collisions by Severity (Draft)
Attachment N: Collision Map - Bicycle Collisions by Severity (Draft)
Attachment O: Vision Statement (Draft)
Attachment P: Objectives (Draft)
Attachment Q: Performance Measures (Draft)
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h
i
l
l
E
x
p
y
Han
o
v
e
r
S
t
Hil
l
v
i
e
w
A
v
e
Junipero Serra Blvd
Sta
n
f
o
r
d
A
v
e
Ros
s
R
d
Ma
t
a
d
e
r
o
A
v
e
Ma
y
b
e
l
l
A
v
e
Hom
e
r
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
El C
a
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Mill
e
r
A
v
e
EAST
PALO ALTOMENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LOS ALTOS
HILLS
PALO ALTO
Byxbee Park
Mitchell
Park
Hoover
Park
Pearson-Arastradero
Preserve
Greer
Park
Eleanor
Pardee
Park
Ramos
Park
Robles
Park
Bol
Park
Alta Mesa
Memorial
Park
Palo Alto
High
School
Gunn
High
School
JLS
Middle
School
Greene
Middle
School
Fletcher
Middle
School
Palo Alto
Caltrain
California Ave
Caltrain
San Antonio
Caltrain
Menlo Park
Caltrain Palo Alto
Airport
Mata
d
e
r
o
C
r
e
e
k
Barr
o
n
C
r
e
e
k
Adob
e
C
r
e
e
k
101
280
82
EAST
PALO ALTO
MENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LA HONDA
PALO ALTO
PORTOLA
VALLEY
Class I - Shared Use Path
Class IIa - Bike Lane
Class IIb - Buffered Bike Lane
Class IIIa - Bike Route
Class IIIb - Bike Boulevard
Class IV - Separated Bikeway
Trail
Ped/Bike Bridge
Ped/Bike Underpass
City of Palo Alto
Park/Open Space
School/University
Commercial Center
Community Center
Library
Caltrain Stop
Railroad
Data Sources: City of Palo Alto, MTC
0 1 2
Miles
01/05/2024
Existing Bicycle Facilities
4
Packet Pg. 38
101
280
82
Mid
d
l
e
f
i
e
l
d
R
d
Alm
a
S
t
Bry
a
n
t
S
t
Ham
i
l
t
o
n
A
v
e
Uni
v
e
r
s
i
t
y
A
v
e
Lyt
t
o
n
A
v
e
Add
i
s
o
n
A
v
e
Ne
w
e
l
l
R
d
Channing Ave
San
d
H
i
l
l
R
d
Cow
p
e
r
S
t
Embarc
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Lou
i
s
R
d
Ore
g
o
n
E
x
p
y
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Pag
e
M
i
l
l
R
d
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Lom
a
V
e
r
d
e
A
v
e
Mead
o
w
D
r
Me
l
v
i
l
l
e
A
v
e
Sea
l
e
A
v
e
El D
o
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Char
l
e
s
t
o
n
R
d
Fa
b
i
a
n
W
y
San Antonio Rd
Bay
s
h
o
r
e
R
d
Gre
e
r
R
d
El Ca
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Los
R
o
b
l
e
s
A
v
e
Wi
l
k
i
e
W
y
Ara
s
t
r
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Foo
t
h
i
l
l
s
E
x
p
y
Han
o
v
e
r
S
t
Hil
l
v
i
e
w
A
v
e
Junipero Serra Blvd
Sta
n
f
o
r
d
A
v
e
Ros
s
R
d
Ma
t
a
d
e
r
o
A
v
e
Ma
y
b
e
l
l
A
v
e
Hom
e
r
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
EAST
PALO ALTOMENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LOS ALTOS
HILLS
PALO ALTO
Byxbee Park
Mitchell
Park
Hoover
Park
Pearson-Arastradero
Preserve
Greer
Park
Eleanor
Pardee
Park
Ramos
Park
Robles
Park
Bol
Park
Palo Alto
High
School
Gunn
High
School
JLS
Middle
School
Greene
Middle
School
Palo Alto
Caltrain
California Ave
Caltrain
San Antonio
Caltrain
Menlo Park
Caltrain Palo Alto
Airport
Mata
d
e
r
o
C
r
e
e
k
Barr
o
n
C
r
e
e
k
Adob
e
C
r
e
e
k
101
280
82
EAST
PALO ALTO
MENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LA HONDA
PALO ALTO
PORTOLA
VALLEY
LTS 1
LTS 2
LTS 3
LTS 4
City of Palo Alto
Park/Open Space
School/University
Commercial Center
Community Center
Library
Caltrain Stop
Railroad
Data Sources: City of Palo Alto, MTC
0 1 2
Miles
Note: Split lines are only used for roadways with different conditions per direction
(for example: bike lane in only one direction or parking only on one side),
otherwise all roads are shown with only a centerline.
Bicycle Level of Traffic Stress - Citywide
4
Packet Pg. 39
101
280
82
Mid
d
l
e
f
i
e
l
d
R
d
Alm
a
S
t
Bry
a
n
t
S
t
Ham
i
l
t
o
n
A
v
e
Uni
v
e
r
s
i
t
y
A
v
e
Lyt
t
o
n
A
v
e
Add
i
s
o
n
A
v
e
Ne
w
e
l
l
R
d
Channing Ave
San
d
H
i
l
l
R
d
Cow
p
e
r
S
t
Embarc
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Lou
i
s
R
d
Ore
g
o
n
E
x
p
y
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Pag
e
M
i
l
l
R
d
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Lom
a
V
e
r
d
e
A
v
e
Mead
o
w
D
r
Me
l
v
i
l
l
e
A
v
e
Sea
l
e
A
v
e
El D
o
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Char
l
e
s
t
o
n
R
d
Fa
b
i
a
n
W
y
San Antonio Rd
Bay
s
h
o
r
e
R
d
Gre
e
r
R
d
El Ca
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Los
R
o
b
l
e
s
A
v
e
Wil
k
i
e
W
y
Ara
s
t
r
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Foo
t
h
i
l
l
E
x
p
y
Han
o
v
e
r
S
t
Hil
l
v
i
e
w
A
v
e
Junipero Serra Blvd
Sta
n
f
o
r
d
A
v
e
Ros
s
R
d
Ma
t
a
d
e
r
o
A
v
e
Ma
y
b
e
l
l
A
v
e
Hom
e
r
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
El C
a
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Mill
e
r
A
v
e
EAST
PALO ALTOMENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LOS ALTOS
HILLS
PALO ALTO
Byxbee Park
Mitchell
Park
Hoover
Park
Pearson-Arastradero
Preserve
Greer
Park
Eleanor
Pardee
Park
Ramos
Park
Robles
Park
Bol
Park
Alta Mesa
Memorial
Park
Palo Alto
High
School
Gunn
High
School
JLS
Middle
School
Greene
Middle
School
Fletcher
Middle
School
Palo Alto
Caltrain
California Ave
Caltrain
San Antonio
Caltrain
Menlo Park
Caltrain Palo Alto
Airport
Mata
d
e
r
o
C
r
e
e
k
Barr
o
n
C
r
e
e
k
Adob
e
C
r
e
e
k
101
280
82
EAST
PALO ALTO
MENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LA HONDA
PALO ALTO
PORTOLA
VALLEY
LTS 1
LTS 2
LTS 3
LTS 4
City of Palo Alto
Park/Open Space
School/University
Commercial Center
Community Center
Library
Caltrain Stop
Railroad
Data Sources: City of Palo Alto, MTC
0 1 2
Miles
Note: Split lines are only used for roadways with different conditions per direction
(for example: bike lane in only one direction or parking only on one side),
otherwise all roads are shown with only a centerline.
Bicycle Level of Traffic Stress - Bicycle Facilities
4
Packet Pg. 40
101
280
82
Mid
d
l
e
f
i
e
l
d
R
d
Alm
a
S
t
Bry
a
n
t
S
t
Ham
i
l
t
o
n
A
v
e
Uni
v
e
r
s
i
t
y
A
v
e
Lyt
t
o
n
A
v
e
Add
i
s
o
n
A
v
e
Ne
w
e
l
l
R
d
Channing Ave
San
d
H
i
l
l
R
d
Cow
p
e
r
S
t
Embarc
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Lou
i
s
R
d
Ore
g
o
n
E
x
p
y
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Pag
e
M
i
l
l
R
d
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Lom
a
V
e
r
d
e
A
v
e
Mead
o
w
D
r
Me
l
v
i
l
l
e
A
v
e
Sea
l
e
A
v
e
El D
o
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Char
l
e
s
t
o
n
R
d
Fa
b
i
a
n
W
y
San Antonio Rd
Bay
s
h
o
r
e
R
d
Gre
e
r
R
d
El Ca
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Los
R
o
b
l
e
s
A
v
e
Wil
k
i
e
W
y
Ara
s
t
r
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Foo
t
h
i
l
l
E
x
p
y
Han
o
v
e
r
S
t
Hil
l
v
i
e
w
A
v
e
Junipero Serra Blvd
Sta
n
f
o
r
d
A
v
e
Ros
s
R
d
Ma
t
a
d
e
r
o
A
v
e
Ma
y
b
e
l
l
A
v
e
Hom
e
r
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
El C
a
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Mill
e
r
A
v
e
EAST
PALO ALTOMENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LOS ALTOS
HILLS
PALO ALTO
Byxbee Park
Mitchell
Park
Hoover
Park
Pearson-Arastradero
Preserve
Greer
Park
Eleanor
Pardee
Park
Ramos
Park
Robles
Park
Bol
Park
Alta Mesa
Memorial
Park
Palo Alto
High
School
Gunn
High
School
JLS
Middle
School
Greene
Middle
School
Fletcher
Middle
School
Palo Alto
Caltrain
California Ave
Caltrain
San Antonio
Caltrain
Menlo Park
Caltrain Palo Alto
Airport
Mata
d
e
r
o
C
r
e
e
k
Barr
o
n
C
r
e
e
k
Adob
e
C
r
e
e
k
101
280
82
EAST
PALO ALTO
MENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LA HONDA
PALO ALTO
PORTOLA
VALLEY
LTS 1
LTS 2
LTS 3
LTS 4
City of Palo Alto
Park/Open Space
School/University
Commercial Center
Community Center
Library
Caltrain Stop
Railroad
Data Sources: City of Palo Alto, MTC
0 1 2
Miles
Bicycle Level of Traffic Stress - Intersections
4
Packet Pg. 41
101
Ne
w
e
l
l
R
d
Channing Ave
Embarc
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Lou
i
s
R
d
Ore
g
o
n
E
x
p
y
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Lom
a
V
e
r
d
e
A
v
e
Mea
d
o
w
D
r
Sea
l
e
A
v
e
El D
o
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Char
l
e
s
t
o
n
R
d
Fa
b
i
a
n
W
y
San Antonio Rd
Bay
s
h
o
r
e
R
d
Gre
e
r
R
d
El C
a
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Los
R
o
b
l
e
s
A
v
e
Wil
k
i
e
W
y
Ros
s
R
d
Ma
t
a
d
e
r
o
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
EAST
PALO ALTO
PALO ALTO
Mata
d
e
r
o
C
r
e
e
k
Barr
o
n
C
r
e
e
k
Adob
e
C
r
e
e
k
Barrier Detour
Up to 1.25x Detour
1.25x - 1.75x Detour
1.75x - 2.00x Detour
2.00x - 4.00x Detour
More than 4.00x Detour
Available Barrier Crossing Locations
Level of Stress 1
Level of Stress 2
Level of Stress 3
Level of Stress 4
0 1 2
Miles
Barriers Map - US 101
4
Packet Pg. 42
101
82
Mid
d
l
e
f
i
e
l
d
R
d
Alm
a
S
t
Bry
a
n
t
S
t
Ham
i
l
t
o
n
A
v
e
Uni
v
e
r
s
i
t
y
A
v
e
Lyt
t
o
n
A
v
e
Ad
d
i
s
o
n
A
v
e
Ne
w
e
l
l
R
d
Channing Ave
Cow
p
e
r
S
t
Embarc
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Lou
i
s
R
d
Ore
g
o
n
E
x
p
y
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Pag
e
M
i
l
l
R
d
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Lom
a
V
e
r
d
e
A
v
e
Mea
d
o
w
D
r
Me
l
v
i
l
l
e
A
v
e
Sea
l
e
A
v
e
El D
o
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Char
l
e
s
t
o
n
R
d
Fa
b
i
a
n
W
y
San Antonio Rd
Bay
s
h
o
r
e
R
d
Gre
e
r
R
d
El Ca
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Los
R
o
b
l
e
s
A
v
e
Wil
k
i
e
W
y
Ara
s
t
r
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Ha
n
o
v
e
r
S
t
Junipero Serra Blvd
Sta
n
f
o
r
d
A
v
e
Ros
s
R
d
Ma
t
a
d
e
r
o
A
v
e
Ma
y
b
e
l
l
A
v
e
Hom
e
r
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Mill
e
r
A
v
e
EAST
PALO ALTO
PALO ALTO
Mat
a
d
e
r
o
C
r
e
e
k
Barr
o
n
C
r
e
e
k
Adob
e
C
r
e
e
k
Barrier Detour
Up to 1.25x Detour
1.25x - 1.75x Detour
1.75x - 2.00x Detour
2.00x - 4.00x Detour
More than 4.00x Detour
0 1 2
Miles
Barriers Map - Oregon Expressway
4
Packet Pg. 43
101Alm
a
S
t
Lou
i
s
R
d
Pag
e
M
i
l
l
R
d
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Lom
a
V
e
r
d
e
A
v
e
Mea
d
o
w
D
r
El D
o
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Char
l
e
s
t
o
n
R
d
Fa
b
i
a
n
W
y
San Antonio Rd
El Ca
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Los
R
o
b
l
e
s
A
v
e
Wil
k
i
e
W
y
Ara
s
t
r
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Foo
t
h
i
l
l
E
x
p
y
Ha
n
o
v
e
r
S
t
Hil
l
v
i
e
w
A
v
e
Ma
t
a
d
e
r
o
A
v
e
Ma
y
b
e
l
l
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Mill
e
r
A
v
e
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LOS ALTOS
HILLS
PALO ALTO
Mata
d
e
r
o
C
r
e
e
k
Barr
o
n
C
r
e
e
k
Adob
e
C
r
e
e
k
Barrier Detour
Up to 1.25x Detour
1.25x - 1.75x Detour
1.75x - 2.00x Detour
2.00x - 4.00x Detour
More than 4.00x Detour
0 1 2
Miles
Barriers Map - Adobe Creek
4
Packet Pg. 44
101
Channing Ave
Cow
p
e
r
S
t
Embarc
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Lou
i
s
R
d
Ore
g
o
n
E
x
p
y
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Lom
a
V
e
r
d
e
A
v
e
Mead
o
w
D
r
Sea
l
e
A
v
e
El D
o
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Char
l
e
s
t
o
n
R
d
Fa
b
i
a
n
W
y
San Antonio Rd
Bay
s
h
o
r
e
R
d
Gre
e
r
R
d
El Ca
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Los
R
o
b
l
e
s
A
v
e
Wil
k
i
e
W
y
Ara
s
t
r
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Foo
t
h
i
l
l
E
x
p
y
Ros
s
R
d
Ma
t
a
d
e
r
o
A
v
e
Ma
y
b
e
l
l
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Mill
e
r
A
v
e
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
PALO ALTO
Mat
a
d
e
r
o
C
r
e
e
k
Barr
o
n
C
r
e
e
k
Adob
e
C
r
e
e
k
Barrier Detour
Up to 1.25x Detour
1.25x - 1.75x Detour
1.75x - 2.00x Detour
2.00x - 4.00x Detour
More than 4.00x Detour
0 1 2
Miles
Barriers Map - Barron Creek
4
Packet Pg. 45
101
Mid
d
l
e
f
i
e
l
d
R
d
Alm
a
S
t
Bry
a
n
t
S
t
Ad
d
i
s
o
n
A
v
e
Ne
w
e
l
l
R
d
Channing Ave
Cow
p
e
r
S
t
Embarc
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Lou
i
s
R
d
Ore
g
o
n
E
x
p
y
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Pag
e
M
i
l
l
R
d
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Lom
a
V
e
r
d
e
A
v
e
Mead
o
w
D
r
Me
l
v
i
l
l
e
A
v
e
Sea
l
e
A
v
e
El D
o
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Char
l
e
s
t
o
n
R
d
Fa
b
i
a
n
W
y
San Antonio Rd
Bay
s
h
o
r
e
R
d
Gre
e
r
R
d
El Ca
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Los
R
o
b
l
e
s
A
v
e
Wil
k
i
e
W
y
Ara
s
t
r
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Ha
n
o
v
e
r
S
t
Ros
s
R
d
Ma
t
a
d
e
r
o
A
v
e
Ma
y
b
e
l
l
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Mill
e
r
A
v
e
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
PALO ALTO
Mata
d
e
r
o
C
r
e
e
k
Barr
o
n
C
r
e
e
k
Adob
e
C
r
e
e
k
Barrier Detour
Up to 1.25x Detour
1.25x - 1.75x Detour
1.75x - 2.00x Detour
2.00x - 4.00x Detour
More than 4.00x Detour
0 1 2
Miles
Barriers Map - Matadero Creek
4
Packet Pg. 46
101
82
Mid
d
l
e
f
i
e
l
d
R
d
Alm
a
S
t
Brya
n
t
S
t
Ham
i
l
t
o
n
A
v
e
Uni
v
e
r
s
i
t
y
A
v
e
Lyt
t
o
n
A
v
e
Add
i
s
o
n
A
v
e
Ne
w
e
l
l
R
d
Channing Ave
San
d
H
i
l
l
R
d
Cow
p
e
r
S
t
Embarc
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Lou
i
s
R
d
Ore
g
o
n
E
x
p
y
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Pag
e
M
i
l
l
R
d
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Lom
a
V
e
r
d
e
A
v
e
Mead
o
w
D
r
Me
l
v
i
l
l
e
A
v
e
Sea
l
e
A
v
e
El D
o
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Char
l
e
s
t
o
n
R
d
Fa
b
i
a
n
W
y
San Antonio Rd
Bay
s
h
o
r
e
R
d
Gre
e
r
R
d
El Ca
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Los
R
o
b
l
e
s
A
v
e
Wil
k
i
e
W
y
Ara
s
t
r
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Foo
t
h
i
l
l
E
x
p
y
Ha
n
o
v
e
r
S
t
Hil
l
v
i
e
w
A
v
e
Junipero Serra Blvd
Sta
n
f
o
r
d
A
v
e
Ros
s
R
d
Ma
t
a
d
e
r
o
A
v
e
Ma
y
b
e
l
l
A
v
e
Hom
e
r
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
El C
a
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Mill
e
r
A
v
e
EAST
PALO ALTOMENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
PALO ALTO
Mata
d
e
r
o
C
r
e
e
k
Barr
o
n
C
r
e
e
k
Adobe
C
r
e
e
k
Barrier Detour
Up to 1.25x Detour
1.25x - 1.75x Detour
1.75x - 2.00x Detour
2.00x - 4.00x Detour
More than 4.00x Detour
Available Barrier Crossing Locations
Level of Stress 1
Level of Stress 2
Level of Stress 3
Level of Stress 4
Churchill Avenue to Meadow Drive (1.3 mile) Crossing Gap
Churchill Avenue to California Avenue (0.7 mile) Crossing Gap
0 1 2
Miles
Barriers Map - Rail Corridor
4
Packet Pg. 47
101
280
82
Mid
d
l
e
f
i
e
l
d
R
d
Alm
a
S
t
Bry
a
n
t
S
t
Ham
i
l
t
o
n
A
v
e
Uni
v
e
r
s
i
t
y
A
v
e
Lyt
t
o
n
A
v
e
Add
i
s
o
n
A
v
e
Ne
w
e
l
l
R
d
Channing Ave
San
d
H
i
l
l
R
d
Cow
p
e
r
S
t
Embarc
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Lou
i
s
R
d
Ore
g
o
n
E
x
p
y
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Pag
e
M
i
l
l
R
d
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Lom
a
V
e
r
d
e
A
v
e
Mead
o
w
D
r
Me
l
v
i
l
l
e
A
v
e
Sea
l
e
A
v
e
El D
o
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Char
l
e
s
t
o
n
R
d
Fa
b
i
a
n
W
y
San Antonio Rd
Bay
s
h
o
r
e
R
d
Gre
e
r
R
d
El Ca
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Los
R
o
b
l
e
s
A
v
e
Wil
k
i
e
W
y
Ara
s
t
r
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Foo
t
h
i
l
l
E
x
p
y
Han
o
v
e
r
S
t
Hil
l
v
i
e
w
A
v
e
Junipero Serra Blvd
Sta
n
f
o
r
d
A
v
e
Ros
s
R
d
Ma
t
a
d
e
r
o
A
v
e
Ma
y
b
e
l
l
A
v
e
Hom
e
r
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
El C
a
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Mill
e
r
A
v
e
EAST
PALO ALTOMENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LOS ALTOS
HILLS
PALO ALTO
Palo Alto
Caltrain
California Ave
Caltrain
San Antonio
Caltrain
Menlo Park
Caltrain
Mata
d
e
r
o
C
r
e
e
k
Barr
o
n
C
r
e
e
k
Adob
e
C
r
e
e
k
Caltrain Stop
Rapid Bus Stop
Railroad
Rail Station Half-Mile Buffer
Rapid Bus Stop Quarter-Mile Buffer
City of Palo Alto
0 1 2
Miles
Barriers Map - Transit Station Areas
4
Packet Pg. 48
101
280
82
Mid
d
l
e
f
i
e
l
d
R
d
Alm
a
S
t
Brya
n
t
S
t
Ham
i
l
t
o
n
A
v
e
Uni
v
e
r
s
i
t
y
A
v
e
Lyt
t
o
n
A
v
e
Ad
d
i
s
o
n
A
v
e
Ne
w
e
l
l
R
d
Channing Ave
San
d
H
i
l
l
R
d
Cow
p
e
r
S
t
Embarc
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Lou
i
s
R
d
Ore
g
o
n
E
x
p
y
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Pag
e
M
i
l
l
R
d
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Lom
a
V
e
r
d
e
A
v
e
Mead
o
w
D
r
Mel
v
i
l
l
e
A
v
e
Sea
l
e
A
v
e
El D
o
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Char
l
e
s
t
o
n
R
d
Fa
b
i
a
n
W
y
San Antonio Rd
Bay
s
h
o
r
e
R
d
Gree
r
R
d
El Ca
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Los
R
o
b
l
e
s
A
v
e
Wil
k
i
e
W
y
Ara
s
t
r
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Foo
t
h
i
l
l
E
x
p
y
Han
o
v
e
r
S
t
Hil
l
v
i
e
w
A
v
e
Junipero Serra Blvd
Sta
n
f
o
r
d
A
v
e
Ros
s
R
d
Ma
t
a
d
e
r
o
A
v
e
Ma
y
b
e
l
l
A
v
e
Hom
e
r
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
El C
a
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Mille
r
A
v
e
EAST
PALO ALTOMENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LOS ALTOS
HILLS
PALO ALTO
Byxbee Park
Mitchell
Park
Hoover
Park
Pearson-Arastradero
Preserve
Greer
Park
Eleanor
Pardee
Park
Ramos
Park
Robles
Park
Bol
Park
Alta Mesa
Memorial
Park
Palo Alto
High
School
Gunn
High
School
JLS
Middle
School
Greene
Middle
School
Fletcher
Middle
School
Palo Alto
Caltrain
California Ave
Caltrain
San Antonio
Caltrain
Menlo Park
Caltrain Palo Alto
Airport
Mata
d
e
r
o
C
r
e
e
k
Barr
o
n
C
r
e
e
k
Adobe
C
r
e
e
k
101
280
82
EAST
PALO ALTO
MENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LA HONDA
PALO ALTO
PORTOLA
VALLEY
Pedestrian Collisions
Bicycle Collisions
City of Palo Alto
Park/Open Space
School/University
Commercial Center
Community Center
Library
Caltrain Stop
Railroad
Data Sources: City of Palo Alto, MTC
0 1 2
Miles
Pedestrian and Bicycle Collisions
4
Packet Pg. 49
101
280
82
Mid
d
l
e
f
i
e
l
d
R
d
Alm
a
S
t
Bry
a
n
t
S
t
Ham
i
l
t
o
n
A
v
e
Uni
v
e
r
s
i
t
y
A
v
e
Lyt
t
o
n
A
v
e
Add
i
s
o
n
A
v
e
Ne
w
e
l
l
R
d
Channing Ave
San
d
H
i
l
l
R
d
Cow
p
e
r
S
t
Embarc
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Lou
i
s
R
d
Ore
g
o
n
E
x
p
y
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Pag
e
M
i
l
l
R
d
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Lom
a
V
e
r
d
e
A
v
e
Mead
o
w
D
r
Me
l
v
i
l
l
e
A
v
e
Sea
l
e
A
v
e
El D
o
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Char
l
e
s
t
o
n
R
d
Fa
b
i
a
n
W
y
San Antonio Rd
Bay
s
h
o
r
e
R
d
Gre
e
r
R
d
El Ca
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Los
R
o
b
l
e
s
A
v
e
Wil
k
i
e
W
y
Ara
s
t
r
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Foo
t
h
i
l
l
E
x
p
y
Han
o
v
e
r
S
t
Hil
l
v
i
e
w
A
v
e
Junipero Serra Blvd
Sta
n
f
o
r
d
A
v
e
Ros
s
R
d
Ma
t
a
d
e
r
o
A
v
e
Ma
y
b
e
l
l
A
v
e
Hom
e
r
A
v
e
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
El C
a
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Mill
e
r
A
v
e
EAST
PALO ALTOMENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LOS ALTOS
HILLS
PALO ALTO
Byxbee Park
Mitchell
Park
Hoover
Park
Pearson-Arastradero
Preserve
Greer
Park
Eleanor
Pardee
Park
Ramos
Park
Robles
Park
Bol
Park
Alta Mesa
Memorial
Park
Palo Alto
High
School
Gunn
High
School
JLS
Middle
School
Greene
Middle
School
Fletcher
Middle
School
Palo Alto
Caltrain
California Ave
Caltrain
San Antonio
Caltrain
Menlo Park
Caltrain Palo Alto
Airport
Mata
d
e
r
o
C
r
e
e
k
Barr
o
n
C
r
e
e
k
Adob
e
C
r
e
e
k
101
280
82
EAST
PALO ALTO
MENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LA HONDA
PALO ALTO
PORTOLA
VALLEY
Fatal and Severe Injury Collisions
Other Injury Collisions
City of Palo Alto
Park/Open Space
School/University
Commercial Center
Community Center
Library
Caltrain Stop
Railroad
Data Sources: City of Palo Alto, MTC
0 1 2
Miles
Bicycle Collisions by Severity
4
Packet Pg. 50
101
280
82
Mid
d
l
e
f
i
e
l
d
R
d
Alm
a
S
t
Bry
a
n
t
S
t
Ham
i
l
t
o
n
A
v
e
Uni
v
e
r
s
i
t
y
A
v
e
Lyt
t
o
n
A
v
e
Add
i
s
o
n
A
v
e
Ne
w
e
l
l
R
d
Channing Ave
San
d
H
i
l
l
R
d
Cow
p
e
r
S
t
Embarc
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Lou
i
s
R
d
Ore
g
o
n
E
x
p
y
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Cal
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
A
v
e
Pag
e
M
i
l
l
R
d
Colo
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Lom
a
V
e
r
d
e
A
v
e
Mead
o
w
D
r
Me
l
v
i
l
l
e
A
v
e
Sea
l
e
A
v
e
El D
o
r
a
d
o
A
v
e
Char
l
e
s
t
o
n
R
d
Fa
b
i
a
n
W
y
San Antonio Rd
Bay
s
h
o
r
e
R
d
Gre
e
r
R
d
El Ca
m
i
n
o
R
e
a
l
Los
R
o
b
l
e
s
A
v
e
Wil
k
i
e
W
y
Ara
s
t
r
a
d
e
r
o
R
d
Foo
t
h
i
l
l
E
x
p
y
Han
o
v
e
r
S
t
Hil
l
v
i
e
w
A
v
e
Junipero Serra Blvd
Sta
n
f
o
r
d
A
v
e
Ros
s
R
d
Ma
t
a
d
e
r
o
A
v
e
Ma
y
b
e
l
l
A
v
e
Hom
e
r
A
v
e
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A
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El C
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o
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Mill
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A
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e
EAST
PALO ALTOMENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LOS ALTOS
HILLS
PALO ALTO
Byxbee Park
Mitchell
Park
Hoover
Park
Pearson-Arastradero
Preserve
Greer
Park
Eleanor
Pardee
Park
Ramos
Park
Robles
Park
Bol
Park
Alta Mesa
Memorial
Park
Palo Alto
High
School
Gunn
High
School
JLS
Middle
School
Greene
Middle
School
Fletcher
Middle
School
Palo Alto
Caltrain
California Ave
Caltrain
San Antonio
Caltrain
Menlo Park
Caltrain Palo Alto
Airport
Mata
d
e
r
o
C
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e
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k
Barr
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C
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101
280
82
EAST
PALO ALTO
MENLO
PARK
STANFORD
UNIVERSITY
LOS
ALTOS
MOUNTAIN
VIEW
LA HONDA
PALO ALTO
PORTOLA
VALLEY
Fatal and Severe Injury Collisions
Other Injury Collisions
City of Palo Alto
Park/Open Space
School/University
Commercial Center
Community Center
Library
Caltrain Stop
Railroad
Data Sources: City of Palo Alto, MTC
0 1 2
Miles
Pedestrian Collisions by Severity
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Palo Alto Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Update
Draft Vision Statement
In Palo Alto, we envision a city where sustainable transportation thrives,
embodying safety, efficiency, and enjoyment. Our streets will form a
connected, cohesive network, supporting walking and cycling with tree-
lined paths, efficient shortcuts, and secure bike parking. We commit to
overcoming barriers, ensuring every part of our community is easily
traversed on foot or by bike, fostering a connected region where
sustainable transportation is a shared priority.
Palo Alto aspires to be a leader, with comprehensive programming
encouraging everyone to embrace sustainable modes. We invest more in
walking and biking infrastructure, ensuring equity and accessibility for
all. Embracing the Safe System Approach, our city prioritizes safety and
aims for a future where walking or biking for short trips is more
convenient than driving, shaping a city where every journey, no matter
how small, contributes to a more sustainable and connected community.
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Palo Alto Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Update
Draft Objectives
• Safe and Inclusive: Prioritizing safety for all road users and
ensuring equitable access to pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure
across the community.
• Connected and Accessible: Featuring a convenient and
interconnected network of sidewalks, bike lanes, and trails that
provide efficient travel options and easy access to transit.
• Comfortable and Enjoyable: Enhancing the comfort and
enjoyment of walking and cycling through amenities such as
shade, greenery, and well-designed streetscapes.
• Community-Driven: Fostering community engagement and
participation in promoting active transportation, supported by
education, programming, and infrastructure investments.
• Integrated and Collaborative: Collaborating with neighboring
cities to create a seamless and integrated regional network of
pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure.
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Palo Alto Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan
Performance Measure Reference Table
2/15/2024
Reduce GHG
2024 Vision Workshop Themes 2012 Plan Objectives Bike Friendly Communities
Criteria Potential Measure(s) - Modified for 2024
Expand Walk/Bike Network
2024 Vision Workshop Themes 2012 Plan Objectives Bike Friendly Communities
Criteria Potential Measure(s) - Modified for 2024
High Speed Roads with Bike
Facilities
Leading Indicator: Projects with Complete Street checklists completed and approved
for AAA routes
Direct Lagging Indicator: Percentage of households that live within 1000ft of
completed and connected all ages and abilities (AAA) cycling infrastructure (bikeways,
trails)
Total Bicycle Network
Mileage to Total Road
Network Mileage
Leading Indicator: Miles of bicycle boulevards, enhanced bikeways, and trails
developed
Direct Lagging Indicator: Numbers of pedestrians and bicyclists on key facilities, as
determined by counts.
Leading Indicator: Amount of grants provided to local residents and community
groups to hold "open streets" events
Lagging indicator: Number of annual street closure events
Leading Indicator: Share of transportation budget spent on walking and biking
Direct Lagging Indicator: Construction of new Across Barrier Connections within or
near employment centers.
Lagging Indicator: Census commute mode share, school commute mode share, TMP
reports
Safe and Complete Streets
2024 Vision Workshop Themes 2012 Plan Objectives Bike Friendly Communities
Criteria Potential Measure(s) - Modified for 2024
Crashes per 10k bicycle
commuters
Leading Indicator: Annual installation of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
compliant curb ramps and accessible pedestrian signals
Fatalities per 10k bicycle
commuters
Leading Indicator: Percentage complete of pedestrian and bicycle collisions with KSIs
improved or studied.
Lagging Indicator: Annual pedestrian and bicycle collissions (either as 10k commuters
or pr 100,000 residents)
Comfortable and Enjoyable:
Enhancing the comfort and
enjoyment of walking and
cycling through amenities such
as shade, greenery, and well-
designed streetscapes.
Leading Indicator: Number of street tree installations along key walking and cycling
routes
Lagging Indicator: Canopy coverage of key walking and cycling routes
Planning & Policy
2024 Vision Workshop Themes 2012 Plan Objectives Bike Friendly Communities
Criteria Potential Measure(s) - Modified for 2024
Bike Plan is Current and is
Being Implemented
Leading Indicator: Share of transportation budget spent on walking and biking
Bike Program Staff to
Population
Leading Indicator: Projects completed involving multiple agency or departmental
funding sponsors
Share of Transportation
Budget Spent on Bicycling
Lagging Indicator: Change or introduction of bicycle-friendly laws and ordinances
Bicycle–Friendly Laws &
Ordinances
Leading Indicator: Number of connections to cycling infrastructure built by
neighbouring municipalities
Education & Encouragement
2024 Vision Workshop Themes 2012 Plan Objectives Bike Friendly Communities
Criteria Potential Measure(s) - Modified for 2024
N/A Bicycle Education in Schools Leading Indicator: Number of walking and biking promotion events run per year at
schools
Bike Month and Bike to Work Events
Leading Indicator: Number of schools with complete Safe Routes to School rolled out
Lagging Indicator: school commute mode share
Leading Indicator: Amount of grants provided to local residents and community
groups to hold "open streets" events
Lagging indicator: Number of annual street closure events
Community, Equity & Advocacy
2024 Vision Workshop Themes 2012 Plan Objectives Bike Friendly Communities
Criteria Potential Measure(s) - Modified for 2024
N/A N/A Presence of Active Bicycle
Advocacy Group
Leading Indicator: Presence of Active Bicycle Advocacy Group
Active Bicycle Advisory CommitteeLeading Indicator: Presence of Active Bicycle Advisory Committee
The tables below sort the 2012 Plan objectives and Bike Friendly Community criteria to corrsponding 2024 Vision Workshop themes, where available.
Convert discretionary vehicle trips into
walking and bicycling trips in order to
reduce City transportation-related
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions 15% by
2020.
N/AN/A
Community-Driven: Fostering
community engagement and
participation in promoting
active transportation,
supported by education,
programming, and
infrastructure investments.
Integrated and Collaborative:
Collaborating with neighboring
cities to create a seamless and
integrated regional network of
pedestrian and bicycle
infrastructure.
Promote efficient, sustainable, and
creative use of limited public resources
through integrated design and planning.
Consider relying on the Palo Alto Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) to
address GHG emissions
GHG reduction is a lagging measure and an outcome of mode change which is
contigent on avaialility of AAA cycling and walking infrastrucutre
Develop a core network of shared paths,
bikeways, and traffic-calmed streets that
connects business and residential
districts, schools, parks, and open spaces
to promote healthy, active living.
Double the rate of bicycling for both local
and total work commutes by 2020 (to
15% and 5%, respectively).
Connected and Accessible:
Featuring a convenient and
interconnected network of
sidewalks, bike lanes, and trails
that provide efficient travel
options and easy access to
transit.
Bicycle Ridership Rate
Plan, construct, and maintain ‘Complete
Streets’ that are safe and accessible to all
modes and people of all ages and
abilities.
Safe and Inclusive: Prioritizing
safety for all road users and
ensuring equitable access to
pedestrian and bicycle
infrastructure across the
community.
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TO: CITY OF PALO ALTO PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
FROM: ADAM HOWARD DEPARTMENT: COMMUNITY SERVICES
DATE: March 26th, 2024
SUBJECT: Court and Fields Use Policy- staff review.
Discussion:
Recreation staff and the Playing field Policy and Projects Ad Hoc committee from the Parks and
Recreation Commission participated in staff level review of the fields and racquet courts policy
to discuss how the policy is working and to discuss any issues staff are seeing.
BACKGROUND:
The City of Palo Alto has a collection of playing fields. These fields include grass fields, artificial
turf fields and skin fields (dirt fields such as baseball fields). Palo Alto also has several courts used
for racquet sports such as tennis and pickleball. These spa ces are governed by the Fields and
Courts policy (Attachment A). The fields portion of this policy was last updated in 2013,
when priority eligibility requirements were changed and time for adult sports were ca rved
out on certain fields and at specific times. The co urt section of this policy has been altered more
recently with major changes from 2020-2023 due to the addition of pickleball courts, pickleball
rules and dual use court policies.
DISCUSSION:
The current field use policy governing the use of fields in Palo Alto has been in place for 10 years
with very little changes. The Playing Field Policy & Projects Ad Hoc felt it was time to provide a
review of the policy to see what has been working and what issues staff have observed,
specifically around fields
Strengths:
•Space allocations provide a fair and balanced distribution of space based on
organizational size and residents.
•Allocating fields based on field sizes ensures fields are being used by appropriate
age groups
Potential Areas for Additional Policy Review:
•Is 51% residency for youth groups enough or should percentage be increased over
time?
•Priority seasons (Fall -soccer and football, Spring – Lacrosse, softball, baseball,
summer- all priority groups). Does seasonal priority still work?
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•Allocations are based on each team practicing twice a week, reality is teams
practice more then that. This leads to putting more teams on each practice slot. Is
this an issue?
•Residency Verification- Are there better methods?
Staff feels these are policy questions that would need additional consideration and community
input before deciding if policy changes are needed.
Recommended Updates:
Staff discussions with the Ad Hoc also brought to light some field issues that can be addressed
without policy change.
Field and Racquet Court Use policy clarifications: Sta ff feels some simple word changes and
formatting are needed to the policy to reflect changes in court usage. Suggested edits include
changing “tennis court” to racquet court to reflect the different uses of Palo Alto courts.
These minor changes can be seen on Attachment B. Since these minor changes don’t change
policy, they would not require City Council approval or additional levels of input.
Goal Storage Issues: Staff has seen continued issues around goals being left out on fields after
use. Although organizations can have permits removed for not storing goals correctly, staff feels
a better first step to correct this issue is to provide a reminder at the start of each season which
will include a map of each field with goal locations clearly marked. This would also include a plan
for more regular changes of lock combinations to reduce unauthorized use. Staff feels this helps
communicate to the numerous coaches that use each field and provides everyone the same
information. If this step doesn’t work, fines or other methods will be discussed.
Garbage issues at tournaments: Staff have observed issues with garbage overflowing and being
left on sites after tournaments. Tournaments bring in larger crowds than typical games and with
that comes larger amounts of garbage. Staff will provide each site being used extra garbage bags
and/or extra garbage cans where needed to help reduce impact. Staff will also provide the hosts
of the tournaments detailed instructions making it clear it’s the organizations responsibility to
clean up all trash and remove all overflow garbage by placing in site dumpsters. Staff will include
maps for each site, with locations of dumpster provided. This should help reduce garbage issues.
If this doesn’t reduce the issue, staff will investigate adding cleaning deposits to tournament fees
to ensure garbage pickup.
RECOMMENDED NEXT STEPS
Staff believes that outreach to the primary field users to gather feedback on how the policy is
working is in order. Staff can begin gathering information from users by surveying each of the
primary field users. With that information, staff, and the Ad Hoc can begin identifying potential
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issues and possible solutions. Field users and members of the public would then be invited to
discuss issues and possible policy changes.
Attachments:
Attachment A: Field Court Policy
Attachment B: Policy Edits
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1
City of Palo Alto Field and Court Use Policy
The City of Palo Alto (the “City”) Field Use Policy (and the procedures adopted hereunder) has
been established to ensure that City-owned, -maintained and –managed park and athletic field
facilities, including the fields owned by the Palo Alto Unified School District (the “District”) are
utilized for recreational, athletic, cultural, educational, social and community service functions that
meet the needs and interests of the community, and that permitted users are fully informed as to
the City’s guidelines that govern their use of the park and athletic field facilities.
Purpose:
• To strive to provide all Palo Alto residents with an opportunity to participate in their activity of
choice.
• To establish policies and procedures governing the use of City parks, fields, tennis courts and
District playing fields managed by the City of Palo Alto.
• To ensure Palo Alto residents have priority access to parks and playing fields.
• To provide for a variety of activities reflecting the athletic preferences of Palo Alto residents.
• To contribute a proportionate amount of field use time to regional organizations that Palo Alto
residents participate in.
• To collect fees for the use of fields, in support of their ongoing maintenance.
• To ensure that decisions regarding the use of City parks and athletic complexes and District
sites are used in the best interests of the neighborhoods, sports organizations and residents of
Palo Alto.
• To ensure that appropriate sports are permitted on appropriate fields.
Field use permits are required for exclusive field use or for any on-going seasonal, organized use
of athletic fields maintained or managed by the City. In accordance with Palo Alto Municipal
Code Section, the Recreation and Golf Services Division issues field use permits. The exclusive
use of a field or an athletic field requires the making of an advance reservation and is subject to
fee and security deposit requirements.
Appendix A - Available Facilities and Park Amenities
Appendix B - Field and Tennis Court Use Guidelines
I. Field Use Permitting:
Field space usage requests are considered at three separate and seasonal intervals per fiscal
year. Field space is awarded on a priority basis at the beginning of each fall, winter/spring, and
summer period. After the original requests are processed on a priority basis, the fields are
available to other non-priority requests. To apply for an Athletic Field Use Permit, an applicant
must submit a field request form to the Field Coordinator/Supervisor. Field request forms are
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available:
1. Online at www.cityofpaloalto.org;
2. In person at Cubberley Community Center; or
3. By requesting a form from the Field Coordinator/Supervisor at
playingfields@cityofpaloalto.org
Fall ~~ The first day of school (mid-August) through December 31.
Winter/Spring ~~ January 1 through the last day of school (end of May early June).
Summer ~~ early June through mid-August.
II. Field Request Form Deadlines:
1. For Fall seasonal use dates, request forms must be submitted by May 1.
2. For Winter/Spring seasonal use dates, request forms must be submitted by November 1.
3. For Summer seasonal use dates, request forms must be submitted by March 1.
III. Seasonal Use Priority:
• Palo Alto resident youth non-profit soccer and football organizations have field
use priority on soccer/baseball/football joint use fields during the Fall use period.
• Palo Alto resident youth non-profit baseball, softball and lacrosse organizations
have field priority on the baseball-softball/soccer joint use fields during the Spring
use period.
IV. Exceptions to Seasonal Priority:
• District programs have annual priority on District fields only.
• Palo Alto Recreation-administered programs have annual use priority on all fields.
V. Eligibility:
The following are the field use guidelines that will be used for priority booking at the start
of each seasonal brokering period. Priority will be given in the order below.
1. City and District Activities
2. Palo Alto Youth, non-profit* organizations with at least 51% residency
3. Palo Alto Adult, non-profit* organizations with at least 35% residency
4. Non-profit groups with 25% or more Palo Alto residence will be given priority for
any remaining fields
5. Other groups not meeting the 25% requirement or for profit will be considered at
staff discretion.
*To qualify for non-profit rates, organizations must provide a copy of their letter of non -profit status from the
California Secretary of State’s Office with their non -profit ID number indicated thereon, Payment with an
organization’s check or charge card is required.
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Priority organizations (groups 2 and 3) will have the opportunity to discuss field use needs
with City staff facilitating, and attempt to negotiate an agreement on field allocations. The
negotiated field allocation agreement must be consistent with section VI Field Allocations
below. If two or more organizations are unable to agree with a negotiated field allocation
agreement then a round robin brokering system will be used to determine the allocation of
fields among organizations.
Organizations will receive priority based on seasonal sports first (see Section III), followed
by organizations that meet the priority residency requirement above. Adults and youth will
broker separately with slots set aside for youth and adults as defined in Section VI. Groups
with less than 25% residents and for-profit groups, reserve fields on a first come first
served basis as available.
If a round robin process is used the first round will be based on the number of residents in each
organization. The number of residents will be broken down to equal a number of teams. Each team
will then receive two practice slots a week and 0.55 game slots per weekend. The second round
will broker for the total number of teams each organization has, less the teams that received fields
in the first round. For more information please see Field and Tennis Court Use Guidelines.
VI. Field Allocations: Fields will be permitted for the activities in which the field(s) are intended
for, designed for, classified as, or for activities conducted in a manner that does not compromise
public safety or field quality and integrity.
• Youth organizations or leagues that qualify for priority booking will be allocated fields as
follows:
• Two (2) practice slots* per team per week.
• 0.55 game slots* per team per week
• Fields will be allocated to age appropriate athletes
• 7v7 or younger - small fields
• 8v8 -10v10 - medium fields
• 11v11 - large fields
*Game slots, Practice Slots and age breakdowns are defined based on sport and field
When priority booking takes place, slots are reserved for the entire brokering period. Slots
brokered do not change because of daylight savings.
• At the Stanford/Palo Alto Playing Fields, the 8:30-10:00 pm weekday slots will be reserved for
adult league play Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. 7pm-10pm slots are reserved for adults on
Wednesday and Friday.
• Sunday mornings from 8:00 am to 12:30 pm, at Terman 1 and 2, JLS 1, 2 and 3 and
Mayfield will be reserved for adult league play. Adult leagues will be held to a
maximum of 1 slot per team every other week. Any additional slots are open to all.
Each group that has seasonal priority can reserve all the slots they require based on the number of
teams in their organization.
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Tournaments:
Organizations who receive priority brokering may request one tournament a year; that tournament
will be given priority of fields use. Tournament dates must be given in advance of brokering and
there can only be one tournament a weekend. All additional tournaments are at staff discretion.
Additional information found in Field and Tennis Court Use Guidelines.
VII Residency:
A resident is a person residing within the city limits of the City of Palo Alto. Any person owning
and paying taxes on real property in Palo Alto, but who is not living in the City, and any person
having only a Palo Alto business address, is NOT considered a resident for field use application
purposes. Children attending District schools are considered residents for brokering purposes.
The City will require identification or documentation of residency. In the event proof of residency
cannot be established, the person will be classified as a non-resident and fees and brokering
privileges will be adjusted accordingly.
VIII. Residency Verification:
Palo Alto Recreation requires a master league roster complete with players’ first and last names
alphabetized, address, phone number, team, and proof of residency. Proof of residency may
include:
• Palo Alto Utility Number
• Copy of Current driver’s license with Palo Alto Address
• Copy of current school I.D. card or verification form (provided by city) signed by school
(for youth attending PAUSD school)
Any group or organization found to be misrepresenting its residency status will have its permit
revoked for the season and will be excluded from brokering for the following season. In addition,
any group or organization found to be reserving field use for any time period time for another
organization (that would otherwise have a lower priority for field scheduling) will be penalized by
the revocation of its permit for the season for which the permit is issued and that group or
organization will be assigned the last (or lowest) priority for field use scheduling for the
immediately following season.
IX. Fees
All fees are due and payable prior to the issuance of any approved field use permit. The fees and
charges for any field use permit are established by the City Council in the Municipal Fee Schedule
and are not negotiable; only the Council has the authority to waive fees and charges by amendment
to the Municipal Fee Schedule. Fees will be reviewed regularly and adjusted accordingly.
Fees can be found in Field and Tennis Court Use Guidelines.
X. Deposits
1. A refundable deposit of one hundred dollars ($100.00) is required for all single athletic field use
reservations. Long term renters are required to provide a $750 refundable security deposit.
2. The City reserves the right to deduct from the security deposit any and all additional charges
relating to, but not limited to, janitorial services, maintenance/repair services, staff time, or
emergency services that are required as a result of the field use.
3. Forfeiture of all or part of your security/damage deposit may occur for any of the following
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reasons:
a. Damage to facility;
b. Misuse of the facility;
c. Inadequate cleanup by the permit holder, requiring additional custodial/staff time
following the permit holder’s use;
d. Violation of field use rules
4. If additional fees due and payable exceed the amount of the security deposit, the permit holder
will be billed for the balance due. Payment will be due and payable within thirty (30) days of the
date of invoice. Fees that are not paid will be assigned for collection to a collections agency and
the user group will be ineligible to apply for field use until the unpaid amount is settled in full.
Insurance Liability
A valid insurance certificate is required for use of any City or District field. The insurance
certificate must afford one million dollars ($1,000,000.00) of general liability coverage per
occurrence and contain the following information:
• General liability coverage (property and bodily injury) as evidenced by an insurance
certificate with an endorsement naming the City of Palo Alto (CPA) AND the Palo Alto
Unified School District (PAUSD) as ADDITIONAL INSURED, and guaranteeing 30 days
prior notice to change or cancellation of the policy.
Use of fields will not be permitted unless a valid insurance certificate has been received by not
later than two
(2) business days prior to the scheduled date of use of the field or other facility.
1. The permit holder shall be responsible for any and all damage to the City’s or the District’s
premises, turf, equipment and/or property. If additional maintenance is deemed necessary
(in excess of normal services/time) to restore the premises, turf, equipment and/or property
to reasonable use by others. the permit holder shall be charged accordingly.
2. The City and the District disclaims responsibility for any accident, injury, liability, loss or
damage to person or property as a result of unauthorized field use.
3. The permit holder will be responsible for all actions and omissions that result in damages
that are caused by their attendees.
XII. Court Usage
1. Courts are available for reservation for Palo Alto Tennis Club and USTA tournament/match
use only. Mitchell Park Courts 5,6,7 are available for reservation by Pickleball organizations
but only for tournaments and only during Pickleball hours.
2. The City brokers all City and District tennis courts (district courts available weekends, holidays
and after 4pm on school days) .
3. Only 50% of the available courts at any location can be reserved at the same time and date
unless permitted by the Recreation Department for special requests/tournaments. All other courts
will remain open to the general public.
4. Courts are not available for reservation by individuals for private use, including private lessons,
picnics and individual play. No person shall provide or offer tennis lessons for compensation on
City-owned tennis courts except as part of and approved as a City-sponsored program.
5. Courts are available for individual use on a first-come, first-served basis. Each court use is
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subject to a one-hour time limit whenever there are others waiting to use the court.
6. Courts are for racquet sports only unless expressly allowed via permit issued by the Community
Services Department. No rollerblades, skates, skateboards, or pets are permitted on any court.
7. No individual may solely occupy and use a court if other individuals are waiting to play on that
court.
8. Only non-marking soled shoes are allowed on the courts.
A: Locations: courts are available at the following locations:
o Cubberley Community Center (6)
o Mitchell Park (7)
o Rinconada Park (9)
o Hoover Park (2)
o Peers Park (2)
o Terman Park (2)
o Weisshaar Park (2)
o Gunn High School (7)
o Palo Alto High School (7)
o JLS Middle School (6)
o Jordan Middle School (4)
B) Multi striped courts
Mitchell Park courts 6,7 are stripped with Tennis and Pickleball lines. These multi use
courts have designated hours
• Tennis priority hours
o 2:30pm -10pm Monday-Sunday
• Pickleball priority hours
o 8am-2:30pm Monday- Sunday
• Hours outside of the priority times are available for first come first serve
play.
• Reservations can only be made during priority hours and only for the
sport with priority during those times.
•
B: Court Fees for reservation:
Residents: $5.00-$10.00 per court per hour
Non-residents: $7.00- $20.00 per court per hour
XIII. Permit Rules & Regulations
1 Permits cannot be transferred or assigned to any other person, group or organization for
any reason.
2 Users must pick up and remove any trash generated by their activity.
3 The misuse of City or District facilities or the failure to conform to facility regulations,
established policies (including the Wet Field Policy) and procedures or any other Federal, State, or
local law, rule regulation or ordinance shall be sufficient grounds for the immediate revocation of
the permit and/or the denial of any future applications. No refund will be granted.
4 Permit holders shall restrict their use to only those fields or courts specifically reserved and
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paid for, as designated in their permit. Other fields or courts may be scheduled by other groups
and may not be available. Permit holders must be in possession of their Use Permit in case there is
a need to address the question of who has priority use or reservation for the field or court in
question. If the permit holder cannot use a field or court due to unauthorized use by another party,
the permit holder should contact the Palo Alto Police Department at 650-329-2413.
Complaints from surrounding neighborhood residents as to the permittee’s activity noise level,
litter and debris, and/or disregard of parking regulations could lead to the cancellation of the
permit or reservation, the forfeiture of the security deposit, and the denial of facility use in the
Future. See Good Neighbor Policy
XIII. Permit Rules & Regulations
5 Permits cannot be transferred or assigned to any other person, group or organization for
any reason.
6 Users must pick up and remove any trash generated by their activity.
7 The misuse of City or District facilities or the failure to conform to facility regulations,
established policies (including the Wet Field Policy) and procedures or any other Federal, State, or
local law, rule regulation or ordinance shall be sufficient grounds for the immediate revocation of
the permit and/or the denial of any future applications. No refund will be granted.
8 Permit holders shall restrict their use to only those fields or courts specifically reserved and
paid for, as designated in their permit. Other fields or courts may be scheduled by other groups
and may not be available. Permit holders must be in possession of their Field Use Permit in case
there is a need to address the question of who has priority use or reservation for the field or court
in question. If the permit holder cannot use a field or court due to unauthorized use by another
party, the permit holder should contact the Palo Alto Police Department at 650-329-2413.
9 Complaints from surrounding neighborhood residents as to the permittee’s activity noise
level, litter and debris, and/or disregard of parking regulations could lead to the cancellation of the
permit or reservation, the forfeiture of the security deposit, and the denial of facility use in the
future. See Good Neighbor Policy
XIV. General Rules & Regulations
All City of Palo Alto Municipal Codes/Regulations apply to all City and PAUSD fields.
1. No activity other than softball is permitted at the El Camino Park and Baylands Athletic Center
softball fields, unless such activity is expressly allowed by permit.
2. The City reserves the right to cancel an approved reservation due to maintenance needs, overuse
of facility, unsafe conditions, or due to a conflict with a City or District event. In these cases, all
attempts will be made to provide a minimum of 15 days advance notice and to provide an alternate
location for the group’s scheduled practice, game or activity. In the event of an emergency, when
only short or no notice can be provided, groups must cooperate with the request to not use the
facility or risk loss of current permit and denial of future use. If there are no alternate facilities
available, the City is not obligated to provide an alternate facility. In case of such event, a full
refund will be given.
3. No person shall use an athletic field which is posted as being closed, whether the closure is for
excess rainfall or for field maintenance or other reason.
4. All motor vehicles must park in marked stalls in the parking lots or legally on side streets, or be
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subject to citation. No unauthorized vehicles shall enter park premises, drive on turf, grounds,
playfields, or paved walkways.
5. All dogs must be on a leash and owners must clean up after their dogs.
6. For guidelines regarding facility hours of operations, see Appendix B.
7. No portable BBQ’s are permitted at any time in any facility.
8. No golf is permitted at any park or sports complex, with the exception of the Palo Alto
Municipal Golf Course.
9. Baylands Athletic Center is closed on Mondays for maintenance.
10. No alcohol or tobacco products are allowed on any District property at any time.
11. Athletic fields may be lined prior to a group use. Water soluble spray paint is the only
permitted means of lining a field. No fields are permitted to be lined by means of Round Up,
Dolomite or other herbicide, which can permanently burn lines into the field. Different color lines
should be used for different sports. Soccer shall use white, rugby shall use blue and lacrosse shall
use yellow.
12. Vending at a field is permitted only if the vendor is associated with the activity and has
received the prior approval of the City’s representative.
13. Gambling is prohibited at all City and District property.
14. Soccer goals must be anchored at all times when they are located on the playing fields. When
goals are not being utilized for play, they must be secured off the playing fields in a manner which
will not permit tipping or create any hazardous condition that could cause injury to any person.
The City of Palo Alto and District are not liable for accidents, injuries or loss of or damage to
individuals or property. Should any goal left on site be found not secured and locked up properly,
the permittee will be subject to a fine of $250.00. A subsequent violation will result in revocation
of the current field user’s permit.
15. The City of Palo Alto encourages partnerships and volunteerism to improve field quality and
maintenance; however, in the absence of a written agreement, donations and/or contributions of
time does not give any organization priority at any facility. Groups wishing to make alterations to
facilities must submit these improvement requests in advance to the City. No groups will be
allowed to make any alteration to any facility without first obtaining the City’s approval.
XV. Field and court releases
Field and court releases and refunds shall follow guidelines below.
Weekday Slots:
• Field releases done before the start of the permit will receive a full refund.
• Field releases done after the start of the permit must be done by the 7th of each month and
will receive a 50% refund
• All refunds done after the 7th will receive no refund
Weekend Slots:
• Weekend slots can be released up to 3 weeks after the publication of the league game
schedule for a full refund.
• Releases after 3 weeks of the publication of the league game schedule can be done by
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the 7th of each month for a 50% refund.
• All releases done after the 7th will receive no refund.
Users who are found to not be using the field and court space and not releasing can be subject to
losing field space for the following brokering period.
•
XVI. Wet Field Policy
No refunds will be given for field closures due to rain. Field slots can be rescheduled.
Athletic use of wet or saturated fields may cause extensive damage resulting in field closure and
costly renovations. Groups shall abide by the Wet Field Policy and preserve the life and
condition of the fields by not playing on them in wet conditions. The following policy applies to
a period of rainfall, over-watered fields and/or irrigation breaks. The “rainout” condition hotline is
650-329-2697.
• All grass fields are deemed closed to use during rainfall. Play will be allowed
during a light mist if the ground is hard and relatively dry at the time field use is
considered.
• In the event of rainfall (any precipitation that is greater than a light drizzle on a
dry field), the fields will be deemed closed after the cessation of precipitation.
A failure to abide by this policy may result in the revocation of the permit and/or elimination for
priority brokering for the following season. Individuals who violate this provision may also be
subject to a $100 fine in accordance with the Palo Alto Municipal Code. Please see Field and
Tennis Court Use Guidelines for additional information
XVII. Field Preservation:
The City will aim to maintain fields uniformly and at the highest possible quality.
Your cooperation is needed to preserve the fields on City and District fields by following these
guidelines:
1. Limit the use of cleats. Cleats longer than one-quarter inch (¼”) are prohibited for use on any
synthetic turf playing fields.
2. Field use, especially sports practices, should be conducted in a manner that play will take place
on different sections of the turf, thus reducing excessive turf wear and damage to any one area.
3. Rotate use of areas (i.e.: use middle of turf area for drills one day and sides of the field the
following day), and when possible, stay off of the fringe or bare areas to limit erosion and further
damage.
3. Replace turf divots at the end of each day to help re-root the grass.
4. Do NOT use the fields during or after heavy rain, or when wet or muddy, for at least 48 hours
5. Soccer practices shall NOT be held on the infield area of a softball or baseball diamond.
6. Softball, baseball, and T-ball practices shall be held only on designated ball fields in order to
prevent injuries to other park users.
7. Remove all equipment at the conclusion of use each day. This includes soccer goals. No
equipment shall be allowed to be left unattended on City or District property without the prior
approval of the Fields Coordinator.
8. Do not overcrowd fields by scheduling multiple games in areas reserved. Allow a safe distance
between fields for safe passage of spectators and participants.
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9. Water soluble spray paint is the only approved method of applying lines to the fields. Burning
of lines with chemicals or cutting lines into turf areas is not allowed.
10. Report hazards on City property to the Parks Division office at 650-496-6962.
11. Report emergencies (e.g., broken water lines, gushing sprinkler heads, etc.) promptly to Palo
Alto Communications at 650-329-2413 who will summon the appropriate personnel. When you
make the call, be prepared to fully identify yourself, your location, and the specific nature of the
emergency.
12. Do not drive or park cars, motorcycles, or other motorized vehicles on turf areas.
13. Bicycles are prohibited on all synthetic turf fields.
14. No food or beverages, with the exception of water, will be permitted on any synthetic turf
field.
XVIII. Good Neighbor Policy The purpose of this policy is to ensure that decisions regarding the
use of City fields, parks and athletics complexes and District sites are used in the best interests of
the neighborhoods, sports organizations, and citizens of Palo Alto. The City has established the
following rules and regulations to govern the use of the City’s and the District’s facilities for the
safe and pleasant enjoyment of participants and neighbors. Every person is expected to abide by
these rules or be subject to forfeiture of the security deposit and/or loss of the privilege of future
use of the facilities.
1 All litter and debris that may occur as a result of your event must be picked up and
deposited into trash receptacles, where provided, or removed from the premises.
2 All groups are responsible for the condition in which they leave the facility. Any excessive
clean-up required by City or District crews following your use will be cause for forfeiture of all or
part of your damage deposit.
3 No amplified music, use of musical instruments, radios, or Public Address System testing
or use allowed before 9:00 a.m. or after 8:00 p.m. and is allowed by permit only. In all parks, care
shall be taken so that speakers are not directed at residences.
4 Complaints from surrounding neighborhood residents as to noise level, litter and debris,
and disregard for use of parking regulations could result in cancellation of your reservation,
forfeiture of security deposit, and denial of future facility use.
5 No person shall park a motor vehicle in such a place or manner as would block or obstruct
any gate, entrance, or exit or resident driveway.
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City of Palo Alto Field and Racquet Court Use Policy
The City of Palo Alto (the “City”) Field and Racquet Court Use Policy (and the procedures
adopted hereunder) has been established to ensure that City-owned, -maintained and –-managed
park and athletic field facilities, including the fields owned by the Palo Alto Unified School
District (the “District”), are utilized for recreational, athletic, cultural, educational, social and
community service functions that meet the needs and interests of the community, and that
permitted users are fully informed as to the City’s guidelines that govern their use of the park and
athletic field facilities.
Purpose:
• To strive to provide all Palo Alto residents with an opportunity to participate in their activity of
choice.
• To establish policies and procedures governing the use of City parks, fields, tennisracquet
courts and District playing fields managed by the City of Palo Alto.
• To ensure Palo Alto residents have priority access to parks and playing fields.
• To provide for a variety of activities reflecting the athletic preferences of Palo Alto residents.
• To contribute a proportionate amount of field use time to regional organizations that Palo Alto
residents participate in.
• To collect fees for the use of fields, in support of their ongoing maintenance.
• To ensure that decisions regarding the use of City parks and athletic complexes and District
sites are used in the best interests of the neighborhoods, sports organizations and residents of
Palo Alto.
• To ensure that appropriate sports are permitted on appropriate fields.
Field use permits are required for exclusive field use or for any on-going seasonal, organized use
of athletic fields maintained or managed by the City. In accordance with Palo Alto Municipal
Code Section 22.04.040, the Recreation and Golf Services Division issues field use permits.
The exclusive use of a field or an athletic field requires the making of an advance reservation
and is subject to fee and security deposit requirements.
Appendix A - Available Facilities and Park Amenities
Appendix B - Field and Tennis Racquet Court Use Guidelines
I. Field Use Permitting:
Field space usage requests are considered at three separate and seasonal intervals per fiscal
year. Field space is awarded on a priority basis at the beginning of each fall, winter/spring,
and summer period. After the original requests are processed on a priority basis, the fields
are available to other non-priority requests. To apply for an Athletic Field Use Permit, an
applicant must submit a field request form to the Field Coordinator/Supervisor. Field
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request forms are available:
1. Online at www.cityofpaloalto.org;
2. In person at Cubberley Community Center; or
3. By requesting a form from the Field Coordinator/Supervisor at
playingfields@cityofpaloalto.org
Fall ~~ The first day of school (mid-August) through December 31.
Winter/Spring ~~ January 1 through the last day of school (end of May early June).
Summer ~~ early June through mid-August.
II. Field Request Form Deadlines:
1. For Fall seasonal use dates, request forms must be submitted by May 1.
2. For Winter/Spring seasonal use dates, request forms must be submitted by
November 1.
3. For Summer seasonal use dates, request forms must be submitted by March 1.
III. Seasonal Use Priority:
• Palo Alto resident youth non-profit soccer and football organizations have field use priority on
soccer/baseball/football joint use fields during the Fall use period.
• Palo Alto resident youth non-profit baseball, softball and lacrosse organizations
have field priority on the baseball-softball/soccer joint use fields during the Spring
use period.
IV. Exceptions to Seasonal Priority:
• District programs have annual priority on District fields only.
• Palo Alto Recreation-administered programs have annual use priority on all fields.
V. Eligibility:
The following are the field use guidelines that will be used for priority booking at the start
of each seasonal brokering period. Priority will be given in the order below.
1. City and District Activities
2. Palo Alto Youth, non-profit* organizations with at least 51% residency
3. Palo Alto Adult, non-profit* organizations with at least 35% residency
4. Non-profit groups with 25% or more Palo Alto residence will be given priority for
any remaining fields
5. Other groups not meeting the 25% requirement or for profit will be considered at
staff discretion.
*To qualify for non-profit rates, organizations must provide a copy of their letter of non-profit status from the
California Secretary of State’s Office with their non-profit ID number indicated thereon, Payment with an
organization’s check or charge card is required.
Priority organizations (groups 2 and 3) will have the opportunity to discuss field use needs
with City staff facilitating and attempt to negotiate an agreement on field allocations. The
negotiated field allocation agreement must be consistent with section VI Field Allocations
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below. If two or more organizations are unable to agree with a negotiated field allocation
agreement, then a round robin brokering system will be used to determine the allocation of
fields among organizations.
Organizations will receive priority based on seasonal sports first (see Section III), followed
by organizations that meet the priority residency requirement above. Adults and youth will
broker separately with slots set aside for youth and adults as defined in Section VI. Groups
with less than 25% residents and for-profit groups, reserve fields on a first come first
served basis as available.
If a round robin process is used, the first round will be based on the number of residents in each
organization. The number of residents will be broken down to equal a number of teams. Each team
will then receive two practice slots a per week and 0.55 game slots per weekend. The second
round will broker for the total number of teams each organization has, less the teams that received
fields in the first round. For more information please see Field and Tennis Racquet Court Use
Guidelines.
VI. Field Allocations: Fields will be permitted for the activities in which the field(s) are intended
for, designed for, classified as, or for activities conducted in a manner that does not compromise
public safety or field quality and integrity.
• Youth organizations or leagues that qualify for priority booking will be allocated fields as
follows:
• Two (2) practice slots* per team per week.
• 0.55 game slots* per team per week
• Fields will be allocated to age appropriate athletes
• 7v7 or younger - small fields
• 8v8 -10v10 - medium fields
• 11v11 - large fields
*Game slots, Practice Slots and age breakdowns are defined based on sport and field
When priority booking takes place, slots are reserved for the entire brokering period. Slots
brokered do not change because of daylight savings.
• At the Stanford/Palo Alto Playing Fields, the 8:30-10:00 pm weekday slots will be reserved for
adult league play Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. 7pm-10pm slots are reserved for adults on
Wednesday and Friday.
• Sunday mornings from 8:00 am to 12:30 pm, at Terman Park 1 and 2, JLS 1, 2 and 3
and Mayfield will be reserved for adult league play. Adult leagues will be held to a
maximum of 1 slot per team every other week. Any additional slots are open to all.
Each group that has seasonal priority can reserve all the slots they require based on the number of
teams in their organization.
Tournaments:
Organizations who receive priority brokering may request one tournament a year; that tournament
will be given priority of fields use. Tournament dates must be given in advance of brokering and
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there can only be one tournament a weekend. All additional tournaments are at staff discretion.
Additional information is found in Field and Tennis Racquet Court Use Guidelines.
VII Residency:
A resident is a person residing within the city limits of the City of Palo Alto. Any person owning
and paying taxes on real property in Palo Alto, but who is not living in the City, and any person
having only a Palo Alto business address, is NOT considered a resident for field use application
purposes. Children attending District schools are considered residents for brokering purposes.
The City will require identification or documentation of residency. In the event proof of residency
cannot be established, the person will be classified as a non-resident and fees and brokering
privileges will be adjusted accordingly.
VIII. Residency Verification:
Palo Alto Recreation requires a master league roster complete with players’ first and last names
alphabetized, address, phone number, team, and proof of residency. Proof of residency may
include:
• Palo Alto Utility Number
• Copy of Current driver’s license with Palo Alto Address
• Copy of current school I.D. card or verification form (provided by city) signed by school
(for youth attending PAUSD school)
Any group or organization found to be misrepresenting its residency status will have its permit
revoked for the season and will be excluded from brokering for the following season. In addition,
any group or organization found to be reserving field use for any time period time for another
organization (that would otherwise have a lower priority for field scheduling) will be penalized by
the revocation of its permit for the season for which the permit is issued and that group or
organization will be assigned the last (or lowest) priority for field use scheduling for the
immediately following season.
IX. Fees
All fees are due and payable prior to the issuance of any approved field use permit. The fees and
charges for any field use permit are established by the City Council in the Municipal Fee Schedule
and are not negotiable; only the Council has the authority to waive fees and charges by amendment
to the Municipal Fee Schedule. Fees will be reviewed regularly and adjusted accordingly.
Fees can be found in Field and Tennis Court Use Guidelines.
X. Deposits
1. A refundable deposit of one hundred dollars ($100.00) is required for all single athletic field use
reservations. Long term renters are required to provide a $750 refundable security deposit.
2. The City reserves the right to deduct from the security deposit any and all additional charges
relating to, but not limited to, janitorial services, maintenance/repair services, staff time, or
emergency services that are required as a result of the field use.
3. Forfeiture of all or part of your security/damage deposit may occur for any of the following
reasons:
a. Damage to facility;
b. Misuse of the facility;
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c. Inadequate cleanup by the permit holder, requiring additional custodial/staff time
following the permit holder’s use;
d. Violation of field use rules
4. If additional fees due and payable exceed the amount of the security deposit, the permit holder
will be billed for the balance due. Payment will be due and payable within thirty (30) days of the
date of invoice. Fees that are not paid will be assigned for collection to a collections agency and
the user group will be ineligible to apply for field use until the unpaid amount is settled in full.
XI. Insurance Liability
A valid insurance certificate is required for use of any City or District field. The insurance
certificate must afford one million dollars ($1,000,000.00) of general liability coverage per
occurrence and contain the following information:
• General liability coverage (property and bodily injury) as evidenced by an insurance
certificate with an endorsement naming the City of Palo Alto (CPA) AND the Palo Alto
Unified School District (PAUSD) as ADDITIONAL INSURED, and guaranteeing 30 days
prior notice to change or cancellation of the policy.
Use of fields will not be permitted unless a valid insurance certificate has been received by not
later than two
(2) business days prior to the scheduled date of use of the field or other facility.
1. The permit holder shall be responsible for any and all damage to the City’s or the District’s
premises, turf, equipment and/or property. If additional maintenance is deemed necessary
(in excess of normal services/time) to restore the premises, turf, equipment and/or property
to reasonable use by others. The permit holder shall be charged accordingly.
2. The City and the District disclaims responsibility for any accident, injury, liability, loss or
damage to person or property as a result of unauthorized field use.
3. The permit holder will be responsible for all actions and omissions that result in damages
that are caused by their attendees.
XII. Racquet Court Usage
The following rules apply to all racquet courts, including tennis, pickleball, and mixed-use courts.
1. . The City brokers all City and District racquet courts (district courts available weekends,
holidays and after 4pm on school days) .
2. Only 50% of the available courts at any location can be reserved at the same time and date
unless permitted by the Recreation Department for special requests/tournaments. All other
courts will remain open to the general public.
3. Courts are not available for reservation by individuals for private use, including private
lessons, or individual play. No person shall provide or offer lessons for compensation on City-
owned racquet courts except as part of and approved as a City-sponsored program.
4. Courts are available for individual use on a first-come, first-served basis.
5. Courts are for racquet sports only unless expressly allowed via permit issued by the
Community Services Department. No rollerblades, skates, skateboards, or pets are permitted
on any court.
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6. No individual may solely occupy and use a court if other individuals are waiting to play on that
court.
7. Only non-marking soled shoes are allowed on the courts.
A: Tennis Court Locations:
o Cubberley Community Center (6)
o Mitchell Park (4 permanent, 2 mixed - use)
o Rinconada Park (9)
o Hoover Park (2)
o Peers Park (2)
o Terman Park (2)
o Weisshaar Park (2)
o Gunn High School (7)
o Palo Alto High School (7)
o JLS Middle School (6)
o Jordan Middle School (4)
• B) Pickleball Court Location:
• Mitchell Park (8 permanent, 7 mixed -use)
C) Mixed Use Court Location
Mitchell Park courts 6,7 are stripped with Tennis and Pickleball lines. These multi use
courts are prioritized for pickleball 7 days a week from 8am-10pm. Tennis can use the
space if vacant but must surrender space for pickleball play.
D: Court Fees for reservation:
Fee listed for one tennis court or four pickleball courts
Residents: $5.00-$10.00 per court per hour
Non-residents: $7.00- $20.00 per court per hour
XIII. Tennis Court Usage Rules
The following rules apply to tennis courts.
1. 1. Tennis Ccourts are available for reservation for Palo Alto Tennis Club and USTA
tournament/match use only.
2. Courts are available for individual use on a first-come, first-served basis
3. Each court use is subject to a one-hour time limit whenever there are others waiting to use
the court.
4. No individual may solely occupy and use a court if other individuals are waiting to play on
that court.
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A: Locations: tennis courts are available at the following locations:
o Cubberley Community Center (6)
o Mitchell Park (4)
o Rinconada Park (9)
o Hoover Park (2)
o Peers Park (2)
o Terman Park (2)
o Weisshaar Park (2)
o Gunn High School (7)
o Palo Alto High School (7)
o JLS Middle School (6)
o Jordan Middle School (4)
C: Court Fees for reservation:
Residents: $5.00-$10.00 per court per hour
Non-residents: $7.00- $20.00 per court per hour
XIII. Pickleball Court Rules
The following rules apply to pickleball courts.
o1. Courts are available on a first come, first served basis for both doubles and singles play.
a.2. • If all courts are full and players are waiting, court time is limited to 20 minutes. Players
can rotate back onto courts as many times as they desire.
b.
c.3. • When courts are full, waiting players may place paddles next to the net of a game in play.
When the game is over, players will relinquish the court to those waiting, as follows:
d.
e.a. • 4 paddles down: all players leave court to those waiting.
f.b. • 2 paddles down: the winning team may stay on, or the waiting players may choose
to play singles.
g.
h.4. • Double stacking of paddles (playing a game while having a second paddle
waiting on another court) is not allowed.
•5. City Permits and Recreation Programs have priority over drop in play
2.
3.
4.6. • An individual may not hold a court when players are waiting.
5.
6.7. • Court shoes only, no cleats allowed.
7.
8. • No wheeled vehicles allowed inside fence.
9.
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10.9. • No private lessons for compensation permitted.
11.
XIV. Permit Rules & Regulations
1 Permits cannot be transferred or assigned to any other person, group or organization for
any reason.
2 Users must pick up and remove any trash generated by their activity.
3 The misuse of City or District facilities or the failure to conform to facility regulations,
established policies (including the Wet Field Policy) and procedures or any other Federal, State, or
local law, rule regulation or ordinance shall be sufficient grounds for the immediate revocation of
the permit and/or the denial of any future applications. No refund will be granted.
4 Permit holders shall restrict their use to only those fields or courts specifically reserved and
paid for, as designated in their permit. Other fields or courts may be scheduled by other groups
and may not be available. Permit holders must be in possession of their Field Use Permit in case
there is a need to address the question of who has priority use or reservation for the field or court
in question. If the permit holder cannot use a field or court due to unauthorized use by another
party, the permit holder should contact the Palo Alto Police Department at 650-329-2413.
5 Complaints from surrounding neighborhood residents as to the permittee’s activity noise
level, litter and debris, and/or disregard of parking regulations could lead to the cancellation of the
permit or reservation, the forfeiture of the security deposit, and the denial of facility use in the
future. See Section XVIV. Good Neighbor Policy
XV. General Rules & Regulations
All City of Palo Alto Municipal Codes/Regulations apply to all City and PAUSD fields.
1. No activity other than softball is permitted at the El Camino Park and Baylands Athletic Center
softball fields, unless such activity is expressly allowed by permit.
2. The City reserves the right to cancel an approved reservation due to maintenance needs, overuse
of facility, unsafe conditions, or due to a conflict with a City or District event. In these cases, all
attempts will be made to provide a minimum of 15 days advance notice and to provide an alternate
location for the group’s scheduled practice, game or activity. In the event of an emergency, when
only short or no notice can be provided, groups must cooperate with the request to not use the
facility or risk loss of current permit and denial of future use. If there are no alternate facilities
available, the City is not obligated to provide an alternate facility. In case of such event, a full
refund will be given.
3. No person shall use an athletic field which is posted as being closed, whether the closure is for
excess rainfall or for field maintenance or other reason.
4. All motor vehicles must park in marked stalls in the parking lots or legally on side streets, or be
subject to citation. No unauthorized vehicles shall enter park premises, drive on turf, grounds,
playfields, or paved walkways.
5. All dogs must be on a leash and owners must clean up after their dogs.
6. For guidelines regarding facility hours of operations, see Appendix A.
7. No portable BBQ’s are permitted at any time in any facility.
8. No golf is permitted at any park or sports complex, with the exception of the Palo Alto
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Municipal Golf Course.
9. Baylands Athletic Center is closed on Mondays for maintenance.
10. No alcohol or tobacco products are allowed on any District property at any time.
11. Athletic fields may be lined prior to a group use. Water soluble spray paint is the only
permitted means of lining a field. No fields are permitted to be lined by means of Round Up,
Dolomite or other herbicide, which can permanently burn lines into the field. Different color lines
should be used for different sports. Soccer shall use white, rugby shall use blue and lacrosse shall
use yellow.
12. Vending at a field is permitted only if the vendor is associated with the activity and has
received the prior approval of the City’s representative.
13. Gambling is prohibited at all City and District property.
14. Soccer goals must be anchored at all times when they are located on the playing fields. When
goals are not being utilized for play, they must be secured off the playing fields in a manner which
will not permit tipping or create any hazardous condition that could cause injury to any person.
The City of Palo Alto and District are not liable for accidents, injuries or loss of or damage to
individuals or property. Should any goal left on site be found not secured and locked up properly,
the permittee will be subject to a fine of $250.00. A subsequent violation will result in revocation
of the current field user’s permit.
15. The City of Palo Alto encourages partnerships and volunteerism to improve field quality and
maintenance; however, in the absence of a written agreement, donations and/or contributions of
time does not give any organization priority at any facility. Groups wishing to make alterations to
facilities must submit these improvement requests in advance to the City. No groups will be
allowed to make any alteration to any facility without first obtaining the City’s approval.
XVI. Field and Racquet cCourt rReleases
Field and racquet court releases and refunds shall follow guidelines below.
Weekday Slots:
• Field releases done before the start of the permit will receive a full refund.
• Field releases done after the start of the permit must be done by the 7th of each month and will
receive a 50% refund
• All refunds done after the 7th will receive no refund
Weekend Slots:
• Weekend slots can be released up to 3 weeks after the publication of the league game
schedule for a full refund.
• Releases after 3 weeks of the publication of the league game schedule can be done by
the 7th of each month for a 50% refund.
• All releases done after the 7th will receive no refund.
Users who are found to not be using the a field and or racquet court space and not releasing can
be subject to losing field space for the following brokering period.
•
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XVII. Wet Field Policy
No refunds will be given for field closures due to rain. Field slots can be rescheduled.
Athletic use of wet or saturated fields may cause extensive damage resulting in field closure and
costly renovations. Groups shall abide by the Wet Field Policy and preserve the life and
condition of the fields by not playing on them in wet conditions. The following policy applies to
a period of rainfall, over-watered fields and/or irrigation breaks. The “rainout” condition hotline is
650-329-2697.
• All grass fields are deemed closed to use during rainfall. Play will be allowed
during a light mist if the ground is hard and relatively dry at the time field use is
considered.
• In the event of rainfall (any precipitation that is greater than a light drizzle on a
dry field), the fields will be deemed closed after the cessation of precipitation.
A failure to abide by this policy may result in the revocation of the permit and/or elimination for
priority brokering for the following season. Individuals who violate this provision may also be
subject to a $100 fine in accordance with the Palo Alto Municipal Code. Please see Field and
Tennis Racquet Court Use Guidelines for additional information
XVIIIX. Field Preservation:
The City will aim to maintain fields uniformly and at the highest possible quality.
Your cooperation is needed to preserve the fields on City and District fields by following these
guidelines:
1. Limit the use of cleats. Cleats longer than one-quarter inch (¼”) are prohibited for use on any
synthetic turf playing fields.
2. Field use, especially sports practices, should be conducted in a manner that play will take place
on different sections of the turf, thus reducing excessive turf wear and damage to any one area.
3. Rotate use of areas (i.e.: use middle of turf area for drills one day and sides of the field the
following day), and when possible, stay off of the fringe or bare areas to limit erosion and further
damage.
3. Replace turf divots at the end of each day to help re-root the grass.
4. Do NOT use the fields during or after heavy rain, or when wet or muddy, for at least 48 hours
5. Soccer practices shall NOT be held on the infield area of a softball or baseball diamond.
6. Softball, baseball, and T-ball practices shall be held only on designated ball fields in order to
prevent injuries to other park users.
7. Remove all equipment at the conclusion of use each day. This includes soccer goals. No
equipment shall be allowed to be left unattended on City or District property without the prior
approval of the Fields Coordinator.
8. Do not overcrowd fields by scheduling multiple games in areas reserved. Allow a safe distance
between fields for safe passage of spectators and participants.
9. Water soluble spray paint is the only approved method of applying lines to the fields. Burning
of lines with chemicals or cutting lines into turf areas is not allowed.
10. Report hazards on City property to the Parks Division office at 650-496-6962.
11. Report emergencies (e.g., broken water lines, gushing sprinkler heads, etc.) promptly to Palo
Alto Communications at 650-329-2413 who will summon the appropriate personnel. When you
make the call, be prepared to fully identify yourself, your location, and the specific nature of the
emergency.
12. Do not drive or park cars, motorcycles, or other motorized vehicles on turf areas.
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13. Bicycles are prohibited on all synthetic turf fields.
14. No food or beverages, with the exception of water, will be permitted on any synthetic turf
field.
XVIVXI. Good Neighbor Policy The purpose of this policy is to ensure that decisions regarding
the use of City fields, parks and athletics complexes and District sites are used in the best interests
of the neighborhoods, sports organizations, and citizens of Palo Alto. The City has established the
following rules and regulations to govern the use of the City’s and the District’s facilities for the
safe and pleasant enjoyment of participants and neighbors. Every person is expected to abide by
these rules or be subject to forfeiture of the security deposit and/or loss of the privilege of future
use of the facilities.
1 All litter and debris that may occur as a result of your event must be picked up and
deposited into trash receptacles, where provided, or removed from the premises.
2 All groups are responsible for the condition in which they leave the facility. Any excessive
clean-up required by City or District crews following your use will be cause for forfeiture of all or
part of your damage deposit.
3 No amplified music, use of musical instruments, radios, or Public Address System testing
or use allowed before 9:00 a.m. or after 8:00 p.m. and is allowed by permit only. In all parks, care
shall be taken so that speakers are not directed at residences.
4 Complaints from surrounding neighborhood residents as to noise level, litter and debris,
and disregard for use of parking regulations could result in cancellation of your reservation,
forfeiture of security deposit, and denial of future facility use.
5 No person shall park a motor vehicle in such a place or manner as would block or obstruct
any gate, entrance, or exit or resident driveway.
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