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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-27 Planning & Transportation Commission Agenda PacketPLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION Regular Meeting Wednesday, March 27, 2024 Council Chambers & Hybrid 6:00 PM Planning and Transportation 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. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen Media Center https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas and minutes are available at http://bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC.  VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/91641559499) Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499    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 Planning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Commission and available for inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in your subject line. Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified as present at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up to fifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking members agree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes for all combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak for Study Sessions and Action Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers. PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only by email to Planning.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. TIME ESTIMATES Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the meeting is in progress. The Commission reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public. CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALL PUBLIC COMMENT  Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker. AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS The Chair or Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management. CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS 1.Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and Assignments STUDY SESSION Public Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker. 2.Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) Update: Share and confirm the vision statement and goals, share and get feedback on the existing conditions technical analysis, and share and discuss upcoming engagement 6:10 PM – 7:10 PM ACTION ITEMS Public Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Fifteen (15) minutes, plus three (3) minutes rebuttal. All others: Five(5) minutes per speaker. 3.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 739 Sutter Avenue [24PLN‐00005]: Recommendation on Applicant’s Request for Approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to Allow for a Condominium Subdivision to Create 12 Units on a Single 16,720 Square Foot Parcel. The Subdivision map Would Facilitate Construction of An Approximately 18,000 Square Foot Mixed‐use Development Project (22PLN‐00201). Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the Provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act in Accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15332 (In‐fill Development). Zoning District: RM‐20 (Multi‐Family Residential). For More Information Contact the Project Planner Claire Raybould at Claire.Raybould@cityofpaloalto.org      7:10 PM – 8:10 PM STUDY SESSION Public Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker. 4.Study Session: Retail Study ‐ Recommendations for Strategies      8:10 PM – 9:10 PM 5.Study Session: Palo Alto Link (PAL) Evaluation and Report      9:10 PM – 10:00 PM COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s). 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 planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.org. 2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, 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 Commission, 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 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 Commission. 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: 916 4155 9499   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. PLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONRegular MeetingWednesday, March 27, 2024Council Chambers & Hybrid6:00 PMPlanning and Transportation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with theoption to attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safetywhile still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose toparticipate from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe andparticipate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged ifattending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live onYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas andminutes are available at http://bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC. VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/91641559499)Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499    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 toPlanning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Commission and availablefor inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you arereferencing in your subject line.Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified aspresent at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up tofifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking membersagree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes forall combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak for Study Sessions andAction Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to Planning.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. TIME ESTIMATES Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the meeting is in progress. The Commission reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public. CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALL PUBLIC COMMENT  Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker. AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS The Chair or Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management. CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS 1.Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and Assignments STUDY SESSION Public Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker. 2.Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) Update: Share and confirm the vision statement and goals, share and get feedback on the existing conditions technical analysis, and share and discuss upcoming engagement 6:10 PM – 7:10 PM ACTION ITEMS Public Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Fifteen (15) minutes, plus three (3) minutes rebuttal. All others: Five(5) minutes per speaker. 3.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 739 Sutter Avenue [24PLN‐00005]: Recommendation on Applicant’s Request for Approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to Allow for a Condominium Subdivision to Create 12 Units on a Single 16,720 Square Foot Parcel. The Subdivision map Would Facilitate Construction of An Approximately 18,000 Square Foot Mixed‐use Development Project (22PLN‐00201). Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the Provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act in Accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15332 (In‐fill Development). Zoning District: RM‐20 (Multi‐Family Residential). For More Information Contact the Project Planner Claire Raybould at Claire.Raybould@cityofpaloalto.org      7:10 PM – 8:10 PM STUDY SESSION Public Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker. 4.Study Session: Retail Study ‐ Recommendations for Strategies      8:10 PM – 9:10 PM 5.Study Session: Palo Alto Link (PAL) Evaluation and Report      9:10 PM – 10:00 PM COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s). 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 planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.org. 2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, 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 Commission, 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 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 Commission. 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: 916 4155 9499   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. PLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONRegular MeetingWednesday, March 27, 2024Council Chambers & Hybrid6:00 PMPlanning and Transportation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with theoption to attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safetywhile still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose toparticipate from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe andparticipate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged ifattending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live onYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas andminutes are available at http://bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC. VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/91641559499)Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499    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 toPlanning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Commission and availablefor inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you arereferencing in your subject line.Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified aspresent at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up tofifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking membersagree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes forall combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak for Study Sessions andAction Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to Planning.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.TIME ESTIMATES Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the meeting is in progress. The Commission reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public. CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALL PUBLIC COMMENT  Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker. AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS The Chair or Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management. CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS 1.Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and Assignments STUDY SESSION Public Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker. 2.Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) Update: Share and confirm the vision statement and goals, share and get feedback on the existing conditions technical analysis, and share and discuss upcoming engagement 6:10 PM – 7:10 PM ACTION ITEMS Public Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Fifteen (15) minutes, plus three (3) minutes rebuttal. All others: Five(5) minutes per speaker. 3.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 739 Sutter Avenue [24PLN‐00005]: Recommendation on Applicant’s Request for Approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to Allow for a Condominium Subdivision to Create 12 Units on a Single 16,720 Square Foot Parcel. The Subdivision map Would Facilitate Construction of An Approximately 18,000 Square Foot Mixed‐use Development Project (22PLN‐00201). Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the Provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act in Accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15332 (In‐fill Development). Zoning District: RM‐20 (Multi‐Family Residential). For More Information Contact the Project Planner Claire Raybould at Claire.Raybould@cityofpaloalto.org      7:10 PM – 8:10 PM STUDY SESSION Public Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker. 4.Study Session: Retail Study ‐ Recommendations for Strategies      8:10 PM – 9:10 PM 5.Study Session: Palo Alto Link (PAL) Evaluation and Report      9:10 PM – 10:00 PM COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s). 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 planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.org. 2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, 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 Commission, 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 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 Commission. 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: 916 4155 9499   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. PLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONRegular MeetingWednesday, March 27, 2024Council Chambers & Hybrid6:00 PMPlanning and Transportation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with theoption to attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safetywhile still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose toparticipate from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe andparticipate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged ifattending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live onYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas andminutes are available at http://bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC. VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/91641559499)Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499    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 toPlanning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Commission and availablefor inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you arereferencing in your subject line.Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified aspresent at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up tofifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking membersagree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes forall combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak for Study Sessions andAction Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to Planning.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.TIME ESTIMATESListed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while themeeting is in progress. The Commission reserves the right to use more or less time on any item,to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items maybe heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to bestmanage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public.CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALLPUBLIC COMMENT Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker.AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONSThe Chair or Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management.CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS1.Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and AssignmentsSTUDY SESSIONPublic Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker.2.Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) Update: Share and confirm the visionstatement and goals, share and get feedback on the existing conditions technicalanalysis, and share and discuss upcoming engagement6:10 PM – 7:10 PMACTION ITEMSPublic Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Fifteen (15) minutes, plus three (3) minutes rebuttal. All others:Five(5) minutes per speaker.3.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 739 Sutter Avenue [24PLN‐00005]: Recommendationon Applicant’s Request for Approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to Allow for aCondominium Subdivision to Create 12 Units on a Single 16,720 Square Foot Parcel. TheSubdivision map Would Facilitate Construction of An Approximately 18,000 Square FootMixed‐use Development Project (22PLN‐00201). Environmental Assessment: Exemptfrom the Provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act in Accordance with CEQAGuidelines Section 15332 (In‐fill Development). Zoning District: RM‐20 (Multi‐FamilyResidential). For More Information Contact the Project Planner Claire Raybould atClaire.Raybould@cityofpaloalto.org      7:10 PM – 8:10 PMSTUDY SESSIONPublic Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker. 4.Study Session: Retail Study ‐ Recommendations for Strategies      8:10 PM – 9:10 PM 5.Study Session: Palo Alto Link (PAL) Evaluation and Report      9:10 PM – 10:00 PM COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s). 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 planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.org. 2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, 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 Commission, 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 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 Commission. 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: 916 4155 9499   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. PLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONRegular MeetingWednesday, March 27, 2024Council Chambers & Hybrid6:00 PMPlanning and Transportation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with theoption to attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safetywhile still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose toparticipate from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe andparticipate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged ifattending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live onYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas andminutes are available at http://bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC. VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/91641559499)Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499    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 toPlanning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Commission and availablefor inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you arereferencing in your subject line.Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified aspresent at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up tofifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking membersagree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes forall combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak for Study Sessions andAction Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to Planning.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.TIME ESTIMATESListed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while themeeting is in progress. The Commission reserves the right to use more or less time on any item,to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items maybe heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to bestmanage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public.CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALLPUBLIC COMMENT Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker.AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONSThe Chair or Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management.CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS1.Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and AssignmentsSTUDY SESSIONPublic Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker.2.Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) Update: Share and confirm the visionstatement and goals, share and get feedback on the existing conditions technicalanalysis, and share and discuss upcoming engagement6:10 PM – 7:10 PMACTION ITEMSPublic Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Fifteen (15) minutes, plus three (3) minutes rebuttal. All others:Five(5) minutes per speaker.3.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 739 Sutter Avenue [24PLN‐00005]: Recommendationon Applicant’s Request for Approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to Allow for aCondominium Subdivision to Create 12 Units on a Single 16,720 Square Foot Parcel. TheSubdivision map Would Facilitate Construction of An Approximately 18,000 Square FootMixed‐use Development Project (22PLN‐00201). Environmental Assessment: Exemptfrom the Provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act in Accordance with CEQAGuidelines Section 15332 (In‐fill Development). Zoning District: RM‐20 (Multi‐FamilyResidential). For More Information Contact the Project Planner Claire Raybould atClaire.Raybould@cityofpaloalto.org      7:10 PM – 8:10 PMSTUDY SESSIONPublic Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker.4.Study Session: Retail Study ‐ Recommendations for Strategies      8:10 PM – 9:10 PM5.Study Session: Palo Alto Link (PAL) Evaluation and Report      9:10 PM – 10:00 PMCOMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS ANDAGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s). 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 planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.org. 2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, 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 Commission, 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 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 Commission. 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: 916 4155 9499   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. Item No. 1. Page 1 of 2 Planning & Transportation Commission Staff Report From: Planning and Development Services Director Lead Department: Planning and Development Services Meeting Date: March 27, 2024 Report #: 2403-2781 TITLE Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and Assignments RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) review and comment as appropriate. BACKGROUND This document includes the following items:  PTC Meeting Schedule  PTC Representative to City Council (Rotational Assignments)  Upcoming PTC Agenda Items Commissioners are encouraged to contact Veronica Dao (Veronica.Dao@CityofPaloAlto.org) to notify staff of any planned absences one month in advance, if possible, to ensure the availability of a PTC quorum. PTC Representative to City Council is a rotational assignment where the designated commissioner represents the PTC’s affirmative and dissenting perspectives to Council for quasi-judicial and legislative matters. Representatives are encouraged to review the City Council agendas (https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/City-Hall/City- Council/Council-Agendas-Minutes) for the months of their respective assignments to verify if attendance is needed or contact staff. Prior PTC meetings are available online at https://midpenmedia.org/category/government/city- of-palo-alto/boards-and-commissions/planning-and-transportation-commission. UPCOMING PTC ITEMS These are placeholder dates targeted for items listed below; the dates for items may change. April 10, 2024 Elections of Chair and Vice Chair 310-320 California Avenue CUP (PDS) 800 San Antonio Road PHZ (PDS) Multi-Family Residential Housing Item 1 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 6     Item No. 1. Page 2 of 2 3265 El Camino Real PHZ (PDS) Teacher Housing April 15, 2024 Joint meeting with City Council to Approve Revisions to Adopted Housing Element (PDS) April 24, 2024 4075 El Camino Way - Palo Alto Commons PC amendment second PTC initiation hearing Review 2023-24 PTC Work Plan and Discuss 2024-25 PTC Work Plan May 8, 2024 North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan (NVCAP) and Supplemental EIR 660 University Avenue (PDS) Retail Strategies Draft Report (PDS) Supplemental EIR for proposed CIP for Comprehensive Plan Consistency (PDS) May 29, 2024 Dark Skies and Bird Safe Design draft ordinance ATTACHMENTS Attachment A: 2024 Meeting Schedule and Assignments AUTHOR/TITLE: Amy French, Chief Planning Official Item 1 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 7     Planning & Transportation Commission 2024 Meeting Schedule & Assignments 2024 Schedule Meeting Dates Time Location Status Planned Absences 1/10/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled 1/31/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 2/14/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Canceled 2/28/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 3/13/2024 5:00 PM Hybrid Special Joint Meeting w/ HRC 3/27/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular Hechtman 4/10/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 4/15/2024 5:30 PM Hybrid Joint Meeting w/ Council 4/24/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 5/8/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 5/29/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 6/12/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 6/26/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 7/10/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 7/31/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 8/14/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 8/28/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 9/11/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 9/25/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 10/9/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 10/30/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 11/13/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 11/27/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 12/11/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 12/25/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled 2024 Assignments - Council Representation (primary/backup) January February March April May June Cari Templeton Keith Reckdahl Bart Hechtman Doria Summa Bryna Chang George Lu Doria Summa Allen Akin Keith Reckdahl Cari Templeton George Lu Bryna Chang July August September October November December Allen Akin Bart Hechtman Doria Summa George Lu Bart Hechtman Keith Reckdahl Cari Templeton Bryna Chang George Lu Bart Hechtman Doria Summa Cari Templeton Item 1 Attachment A - 2024 Schedule & Assignments     Packet Pg. 8     Item No. 2. Page 1 of 16 Planning & Transportation Commission Staff Report From: Office of Transportation Lead Department: Office of Transportation Meeting Date: March 27, 2024 Report #: 2402-2620 TITLE Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) Update: Share and confirm the vision statement and goals, share and get feedback on the existing conditions technical analysis, and share and discuss upcoming engagement RECOMMENDATION Receive report, provide feedback on the project’s draft vision statement, objectives, performance measures, and the existing conditions technical analysis. 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 Commission is being asked to review and provide feedback on the project’s draft vision statement (Attachment O), objectives (Attachment P), and Performance Measures (Attachment Q) created from feedback received during the first phase of engagement. The draft project vision statement (Attachment O) reads: 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, Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 9     Item No. 2. Page 2 of 16 shaping a city where every journey, no matter how small, contributes to a more sustainable and connected community. The draft project objectives (Attachment P) outlined include: •Safe and Inclusive •Connected and Accessible •Comfortable and Enjoyable •Community-Driven •Integrated and Collaborative The draft project performance measures (Attachment Q) sort the 2012 BPTP Objectives and the Bike Friendly Community criteria to corresponding project objectives/themes, where available, to develop potential measures for the BPTP Update. The 2012 BPTP Objectives include: •Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction •Walk/Bike Network Expansion •Safe and Complete Streets •Planning & Policy •Education & Encouragement •Community, Equity, and Advocacy The analysis in this report includes a review of electric bicycles (e-bikes) and shared micromobility 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 collision 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. •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. Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 10     Item No. 2. Page 3 of 16 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. The highest number of pedestrians travel to or from Stanford University with other walking hubs in downtown, Barron Park, and Adobe Meadow/Meadow Park. PROJECT DESCRIPTION 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 rolling 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. Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 11     Item No. 2. Page 4 of 16 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 subconsultant Mobycon, to 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 ANALYSIS The Commission is being asked to review and provide feedback on the project’s draft vision statement (Attachment O), objectives (Attachment P), and Performance Measures (Attachment Q) created from feedback received during the first phase of engagement. The Commission may also provide feedback on the existing conditions and needs analysis. The following section presents a brief discussion of the analysis approach and findings for each of the topics covered in this task. And the Stakeholder Engagement section below goes into more detail about the vision statement, objectives, and performance measures. E-bikes and Shared Micromobility. 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 Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 12     Item No. 2. Page 5 of 16 •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 Micromobility. The United States Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) defines micromobility 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, micromobility 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 micromobility 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 micromobility, 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 zones for parking shared micromobility vehicles, reducing the need for docking infrastructure while still allowing the municipality control over where vehicles can park. Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 13     Item No. 2. Page 6 of 16 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 as a result 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 micromobility 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 •Presence of signage and/or wayfinding information at the parking location (optional) •Additional notes on observations (optional) •Photos for visual documentation 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 Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 14     Item No. 2. Page 7 of 16 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 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. Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 15     Item No. 2. Page 8 of 16 •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 yet 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. •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), Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 16     Item No. 2. Page 9 of 16 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. 94 98 92 104 69 78 92 73 40 41 16 7 4 2 2 4 5 2 4 7 2 1 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Total Fatal and Severe Injury Bicycle Collisions Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 17     Item No. 2. Page 10 of 16 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 (6 collisions) of the fatal and severe injury pedestrian collisions occurred at night. Although the majority of 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. 33 33 37 22 31 25 40 30 10 19 6 1 4 3 1 4 3 3 5 2 2 2 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Total Fatal and Severe Injury Pedestrian Collisions Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 18     Item No. 2. Page 11 of 16 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 Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 19     Item No. 2. Page 12 of 16 a.m., 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. FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT 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). STAKEHOLDER 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. Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 20     Item No. 2. Page 13 of 16 •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 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. Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 21     Item No. 2. Page 14 of 16 •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 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 O, P, and Q, respectively. These will be refined with input from council, committee, and Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 22     Item No. 2. Page 15 of 16 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 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. Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 23     Item No. 2. Page 16 of 16 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW California Senate Bill 922 (2022) exempts active transportation plans, such as bicycle transportation plans like the BPTP Update from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS None. 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) AUTHOR/TITLE: Ozzy Arce, Senior Transportation Planner Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 24     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 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 Item 2 Attachment A - Existing Bicycle Facilities Map     Packet Pg. 25     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 Item 2 Attachment B - Bicycle Level of Stress Map - Citywide     Packet Pg. 26     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 Item 2 Attachment C - Bicycle Level of Stress Map - Bicycle Facilities     Packet Pg. 27     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 Item 2 Attachment D - Bicycle Level of Traffic Stress Map - Intersections     Packet Pg. 28     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 Item 2 Attachment E - Barriers Map - US 101     Packet Pg. 29     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 Item 2 Attachment F - Barriers Map - Oregon Expressway     Packet Pg. 30     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 Item 2 Attachment G - Barriers Map - Adobe Creek     Packet Pg. 31     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 Item 2 Attachment H - Barriers Map - Barron Creek     Packet Pg. 32     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 Item 2 Attachment I - Barriers Map - Matadero Creek     Packet Pg. 33     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 Item 2 Attachment J - Barriers Map - Rail Corridor     Packet Pg. 34     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 Item 2 Attachment K - Barriers Map - Transit Station Areas     Packet Pg. 35     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 Item 2 Attachment L - Collision Map - Pedestrian and Bicycle Collisions     Packet Pg. 36     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 Pedestrian Collisions by Severity Item 2 Attachment M - Collision Map - Pedestrian Collisions by Severity     Packet Pg. 37     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 Item 2 Attachment N - Collision Map - Bicycle Collisions by Severity     Packet Pg. 38     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. Item 2 Attachment O - Vision Statement - Draft     Packet Pg. 39     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. Item 2 Attachment P - Objectives - Draft     Packet Pg. 40     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. Item 2 Attachment Q - Performance Measures     Packet Pg. 41     Item No. 3. Page 1 of 7 Planning & Transportation Commission Staff Report From: Planning and Development Services Director Lead Department: Planning and Development Services Meeting Date: March 27, 2024 Report #: 2403-2703 TITLE PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI-JUDICIAL. 739 Sutter Avenue [24PLN-00005]: Recommendation on Applicant’s Request for Approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to Allow for a Condominium Subdivision to Create 12 Units on a Single 16,720 Square Foot Parcel. The Subdivision map Would Facilitate Construction of An Approximately 18,000 Square Foot Mixed-use Development Project (22PLN-00201). Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the Provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act in Accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15332 (In-fill Development). Zoning District: RM-20 (Multi-Family Residential). For More Information Contact the Project Planner Claire Raybould at Claire.Raybould@cityofpaloalto.org RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) take the following action(s): 1. Consider the project exempt from CEQA in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15532 (in-fill) as documented in Attachment C. 2. Recommend approval of the Vesting Tentative Map to the City Council based on findings and subject to conditions of approval in the Draft Record of Land Use Action (RLUA) in Attachment B. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The applicant requests approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to allow twelve residential condominium units on a single, existing, 16,720 square foot (sf) parcel located at 739 Sutter Avenue. Through a separate, Streamlined Housing Development Review Entitlement Process, the applicant proposed, and the Director of Planning and Development Services (Director) tentatively approved, construction of a twelve-unit residential townhome project, two units (25% of the base units) of which would be provided at below market rate and made affordable to low income households (80% of Area Median Income or below). BACKGROUND Project Information Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 42     Item No. 3. Page 2 of 7 Owner:Ge Sun (Grace Li) Architect:Dahlin Group Representative:Kriselle Rodriguez; Eric Muzzy (Dahlin Group) Legal Counsel:Not Applicable Property Information Address:739 Sutter Avenue Neighborhood:Midtown Lot Dimensions & Area:~125x~133 (16,720 sf [.38 ac]) Housing Inventory Site:Not Applicable (site identified as a pipeline project for the Cycle 6 Housing Element) Located w/in a Plume:Not Applicable Protected/Heritage Trees:No heritage trees; see discussion below regarding street trees Historic Resource(s):Not Applicable (see discussion below) Existing Improvement(s):Approximately 5,250 sf; single story; 1954 Existing Land Use(s):Multi-family residential (8 rental units) Adjacent Land Uses & Zoning: North: Multi-family Land Use (RM-20 Zoning) West: Single-family Land Use (R-1 Zoning) East: Multi-family Land Use (RM-20 Zoning) South: Multi-family Land Use (RM-20 Zoning) Special Setbacks:Not Applicable Aerial View of Property: Source: Google Satellite Maps Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 43     Item No. 3. Page 3 of 7 Land Use Designation & Applicable Plans/Guidelines Comp. Plan Designation:Multi-family Residential Zoning Designation:RM-30 Zone District Yes Yes Yes Baylands Master Plan/Guidelines (2008/2005) El Camino Real Guidelines (1976) Housing Development Project Downtown Urban Design Guidelines (1993) South El Camino Real Guidelines (2002) Utilizes Chapter 18.24 - Objective Standards Individual Review Guidelines (2005) Within 150 feet of Residential Use or District Context-Based Design Criteria applicable SOFA Phase 1 (2000)Within Airport Influence Area SOFA Phase 2 (2003) Prior City Reviews & Action City Council:None PTC:None HRB:None ARB:None The proposed subdivision map has not gone to any other boards or commissions for review. However, the proposed improvements associated with the map were reviewed by the Architectural Review Board (ARB) on November 2, 2023.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The project includes a request for approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to create twelve condominium units (on a single parcel totaling 16,720 sf [0.38 ac]). Approval of the map also includes acceptance of proposed utility easements on the parcel, which are required per City of Palo Alto Utility standards. A location map is included in Attachment A. The proposed Vesting Tentative Map is included in Attachment C. On March 19, 2024, the proposed improvements associated with this condominium subdivision were tentatively approved by the Director following the November 2, 2023 ARB session, in accordance with the Streamlined Housing Development Review Process. The project includes demolition of a single structure with eight residential rental units and its replacement with two three-story buildings with a total of twelve for-sale townhome units. 1 The November 2, 2023 Architectural Review Board Staff Report for the 739 Sutter Avenue project is available online at: Packet_20231026221813038.pdf (cityofpaloalto.org) Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 44     Item No. 3. Page 4 of 7 Requested Entitlements, Findings and Purview The following discretionary applications are being requested and subject to PTC purview: • Vesting Tentative Map: The process for evaluating this type of application is set forth in Title 21 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) and California Government Code 66474. The process for approval of a Vesting Tentative Map for a condominium subdivision is outlined in PAMC Sections 21.12.010 and 21.13.020. Vesting Tentative maps require PTC review. The PTC reviews whether the amended subdivision is consistent with the Subdivision Map Act (in particular, Government Code 66474), Title 21 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code, the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan, and other applicable provisions of the Palo Alto Municipal Code and State Law. The PTC’s recommendation is forwarded to the City Council for final approval. In accordance with Title 21 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code, all entitlements are required to be completed prior to approval of the Vesting Tentative Map. In compliance with this requirement, the applicant’s request for Streamlined Housing Development Review was tentatively approved on March 19, 2024. ANALYSIS The proposed project and relevant discussion and findings herein reflect the Vesting Tentative Map. The Director previously tentatively approved the proposed site improvements associated with this condominium subdivision. The map also includes dedication of relevant public utility easements associated with the new site improvements. Neighborhood Setting and Character The project is located on Sutter Avenue and surrounded on the northeast, east, and south by other multi-family residential uses within the RM-20 Zone district. At the rear of the property (west) the site abuts single-family residential uses along San Carlos Court. Surrounding development is primarily single-story. The site is located within close proximity to commercial uses along Middlefield, such as a grocery store and small retail, financial, and personal service uses. Consistency with the Comprehensive Plan, Area Plans and Guidelines The proposed Vesting Tentative Map is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, in that the site is designated primarily as “Multifamily” land use category and will be developed as a multifamily development on that portion of the site. The map facilitates the redevelopment of a parcel within the City’s urban service area which is consistent Policy L-1.2 of the Comprehensive Plan. The associated development to be constructed on the lot would add new residential units that contribute to the housing inventory including two affordable housing units, consistent with Goal 2 of the Housing Element, which states “assist in the provision of safe, attainable, and sustainable housing, especially affordable housing, to meet the needs of all economic segments of the community.” Consistencies with other Comprehensive Plan policies are included in Attachment B of this report. Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 45     Item No. 3. Page 5 of 7 Zoning Compliance The site is zoned primarily as RM-20 (multi-family residential). The proposed multi-family development is a permitted use within the RM-20 Zone. The size of the parcel would not change and is consistent with code requirements for the RM-20 Zone District, which has a minimum lot size of 8,500 sf and minimum dimensions of 70 feet in width by 100 feet in depth. Staff finds that the proposed Vesting Tentative Map complies with these code requirements for parcels. Private Street Width The proposed project includes new private streets that do not meet the minimum width of 32 feet set forth in PAMC 21.20.240. The applicant requested a waiver from this development standard in accordance with State Density Bonus Law to allow for a private street that is 20 feet in width. Approval of this waiver was tentatively granted as part of the tentative approval of the proposed development under the Streamlined Housing Development Project review. The waiver also applies to the subdivision map process. The proposed improvements, including the street width, were reviewed by all departments as part of the streamlined housing development review process. Reviewers included, but were not limited to, City of Palo Alto Fire Department, Public Works Engineering, Office of Transportation and the Building Department. The proposed project, with the proposed 20-foot street width, meets all safety requirements, including, but not limited to, fire safety and traffic safety. FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT The developer would be required to pay all applicable development impact fees estimated to total $279,177.12 for the subdivision and the proposed improvements, plus the applicable public art fees, as documented in Condition of Approval #6 in Attachment B and detailed further in Condition of Approval #17 in the Tentative Approval Letter for the Streamlined Housing Development Project Review Approval. STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT The Palo Alto Municipal Code requires notice of this public hearing to be published in a local paper and mailed to owners and occupants of property within 600 feet of the subject property at least ten days in advance. Notice of a public hearing for this project was published in the Daily Post on March 15, 2024, which is 13 days in advance of the meeting. Postcard mailing occurred on March 13, 2024. Public Comments As of the writing of this report, no project-related, public comments were received related to the Vesting Tentative Map. Comments received on the proposed Streamlined Housing Review application are outlined in the Architectural Review staff report. Key comments from nearby residents associated with the development application included, but were not limited to: •Concerns about the height of the proposed structures Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 46     Item No. 3. Page 6 of 7 •Concerns about increased traffic •The project’s compliance with fire safety requirements •Proximity of the structure to the rear property line •Privacy impacts from the proposed project; tree screening along the rear property line •Noise from residents occupying the site and from construction •Air quality impacts during construction Modifications were made to the development plans based on feedback from the ARB as well as neighboring residents. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW The subject project has been assessed in accordance with the authority and criteria contained in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the State CEQA Guidelines, and the environmental regulations of the City. Specifically, the proposed Vesting Tentative Map is exempt from CEQA in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15332. Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 47     Item No. 3. Page 7 of 7 ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS In addition to the recommended action, the Planning and Transportation Commission may: 1. Approve the project with modified findings or conditions; 2. Continue the project to a date (un)certain; or 3. Recommend project denial based on revised findings ATTACHMENTS Attachment A: Location Map Attachment B: Draft Record of Land Use Action Attachment C: Vesting Tentative Map and Environmental Analysis AUTHOR/TITLE: Claire Raybould, AICP, Senior Planner Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 48     24 Safeway 125.6' 161.0' 130.7' 52.8' 108.5' 130.7' 35.4' 86.1' 1.6' 125.6' 133.0' 125.6' 133.0' 125.6' 82.5' 42.5' 10.5' 119.4' 135.0' 119.4' 95.7' 27.5' 81.0' 109.9' 125.6' 133.0' 125.6' 133.0' 70.0' 61.0'70.0' 61.0' 70.0' 60.0'70.0' 60.0' 70.0' 57.3'70.0' 57.3' 70.0' 57.0'70.0' 57.0' 97.4' 114.3' 97.4' 114.3' 90.0' 60.0' 90.0' 60.0' 107.4' 61.0' 107.4' 61.1' 70.0' 135.0' 70.0' 135.0' 70.0' 31.0' 70.0' 31.0' 0' 50.0' 42.0' 10.0' 43.6' 247.5' 171.0' 77.5' 7.0'39.0' 136.5' 49.7'176.2' 80.3' 153.4' 44.3' 32.5' 61.0' 7.4' 60.0' 164.0' 126.2'120.8' 62.3' 190.5' 172.0' 52.0' 172.0' 54.2' 156.6' 287.9' 289.4' 70.0' 123.4' 70.0' 123.4' 44.5' 103.3' 44.5' 103.3' 60.0' 110.8' 105.6' 803 125.6' 60.3' 31.4' 125.6' 94.9'125.6' 94.9' 125.6' 94.9'125.6' 94.9' 125.6' 94.9'125.6' 94.9' 44.5' 103.3' 44.5' 103.3' 44.5' 103.3' 44.5' 103.3' 44.5' 115.0' 115.0' 40.0' 109 40.0' 109.6 102.8' 42.0' 102.8' 42.8' 95.9' 42.3' 95.9' 44.6' 88.8' 44.0' 88.8' 46.6' 81.4' 46.0' 81.4' 51.5' 73.2' 50.8' 73.2'60.0' 31.4' 45.0' 125.6' 125.6'125.6' 60.0' 125.6' 60.0' 125.6' 60.0' 125.6' 60.0' 125.6' 60.0' 125.6' 60.0' 125.6' 60.0' 125.6' 60.0' 125.6' 60.0' 125.6' 60.0' 43.6' 43.6' 125.6' 523.6' 136.5' 38.9' 7.0' 44.5' 32.5' 138.5' 72.0' 153.4' 94.2' 2875 735 733 745 734 730 746 724 718 720 2811 707-721 723- 737 718 729 723 70 717 704- 718 702 767 771 779 755-759 761 763 708 704 706 775 750 752 754 760 749 733 744 739-753 726- 738 722-724 736 732 731 741 730 724 730-738 740-748 720-728 737 SUT TER AV ENUE ORTH PLACE (PVT) COLORADO AVENUE SUT CLA SAN CARLOS COURT PC- 2197 R-2 -1 RM-20 R-2 This map is a product of the City of Palo Alto GIS This document is a graphic representation only of best available sources. Legend Project Site 0'88' Attachment A: Location Map 739 sutter CITYOF PALO ALTOI N C O R P O R A T E D CAL I F OR N I A P a l o A l t o T h e C i t y o f A P R I L 1 6 1 8 9 4 The City of Palo Alto assumes no responsibility for any errors ©1989 to 2016 City of Palo Alto chodgki, 2023-10-18 11:38:02 (\\cc-maps\Encompass\Admin\Personal\Planning.mdb) R-1 Item 3 Attachment A - Location Map     Packet Pg. 49     1 3 2 6 2 ACTION NO. 2024-__ RECORD OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO LAND USE ACTION FOR 739 SUTTER AVENUE: VESTING TENTATIVE MAP, 24PLN-00005 At its meeting on _________, 2024, the City Council of the City of Palo Alto (“City Council”) approved the Vesting Tentative Map for the development of a one-lot subdivision to create 12 residential condominium units, including a density bonus waiver from street width requirements making the following findings, determinations and declarations: SECTION 1. Background. A. On January 4, 2024, Grace Li applied for a Vesting Tentative Map for the development of a one (1) parcel, 12-unit condominium subdivision project, including a density bonus waiver from street width requirements to permit a minimum 20-foot wide private street. (“The Project”). B. The project site is comprised of one existing lot (APN No. 127-35-200) of approximately 16,720 square feet. The site contains a single multi-family development with eight (8) residential rental units. Single family residential uses abut the site to the north. Multi- family residential units abut the site to the east, west, and across Sutter Avenue to the South. C. Following staff review, the Planning and Transportation Commission reviewed the project and recommended approval on ___________, 2024, subject to conditions of approval. D. On ___________, 2024 the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing, at which evidence was considered and all persons were afforded an opportunity to be heard in accordance with the City Council’s policies and procedures. SECTION 2. Environmental Review. The City, as the lead agency for the Project, has determined that the project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with CEQA Guideline section 15132, which provides an exemption for infill development projects. Documentation to support the exemption is available as part of the public record on file with the Planning and Development Services Division. SECTION 3. Vesting Tentative Map Findings. A legislative body of a city shall deny approval of a Parcel Map, if it makes any of the following findings (California Government Code Section 66474). The City Council cannot make these findings for the following reasons: Item 3 Attachment B - Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 50     2 3 2 6 2 1.That the proposed map is not consistent with applicable general and specific plans as specified in Section 65451: The site is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan as described below. 2.That the design or improvement of the proposed subdivision is not consistent with applicable general and specific plans: There is no adopted specific plan for this project site. The proposed vesting tentative map and related improvements is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan in that it facilitates housing development on a site designated for multi-family use within the urban services area, consistent with Goal 2 of the Housing Element and Goal L1.2 of the Land Use Element. The proposed density (31 DU/AC) is consistent with the allowable density (20 to 40 DU/AC) in the multi-family land use designation as outlined in the Land Use Element. The project replaces eight existing residential rental units with twelve residential condominium units, including two units that will be offered at a rate affordable to low income (50-80% of AMI). The project improves the city’s jobs housing imbalance consistent with the Transportation Element’s goals and policies. 3. That the site is not physically suitable for the type of development: The Project site is suitable for multi-family residential development in that it’s located within the multi-family zone district on a site designated on the City’s Land Use Map for multi-family use. The existing parcel meets the minimum code requirements for the RM-20 zone district with respect to lot area, width and depth. The parcel would not change with approval of this condominium subdivision. The proposed number of condominium units complies with the applicable densities set forth in the land use element. 4.That the site is not physically suitable for the proposed density of development: The project would create a total of twelve (12) multi-family residential units which is 31 dwelling units (DU) per acre. This density complies with the maximum allowable residential density as calculated for the total site area under the comprehensive plan (40 DU/acre = 31 DU). Although it exceeds the allowable density set forth in the zoning district, the project exceeds this density in accordance with state density bonus law (Assembly Bill 2345) which allows for increased density based on the percentage of BMR units (25% of the base project) and their affordability level (low income). Building, Palo Alto Fire Department, Planning, Transportation, and Public Works Engineering have reviewed the requested density bonus waiver to permit a minimum 20-foot street width to ensure that all necessary requirements for safety, including but not limited to, fire safety and traffic safety (e.g. curb cut location, back-up space, turning radius, etc.) have been met. Item 3 Attachment B - Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 51     3 3 2 6 2 5. That the design of the subdivision or the proposed improvements are likely to cause substantial environmental damage or substantially and avoidably injure fish or wildlife or their habitat: The project is located within the built environment that does not contain quality habitat for fish or other wildlife on the site or within the vicinity of the site. The nearest stream is a channelized portion of Matadero Creek approximately 350 feet north from the project site. The adopted Palo Alto 2030 Comprehensive Plan includes Map N-1, which identified sensitive animal and plant species within the Palo Alto quadrangle, a large geographic area that includes the urban portions along the bay and within the foothills, based on information in the California natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). Based on this map, and the urban nature of the site, the subject property does not contain any habitat for endangered, rare, or threatened species and has not historically supported any of these species. 6. That the design of the subdivision or type of improvements is likely to cause serious public health problems: The subdivision of this parcel and associated improvements would not have the potential to result in serious health problems. The proposed multi-family use would not include use or storage of hazardous materials and the use is located within the urban environment adjacent to other residential uses. The site is not located on a hazardous waste site pursuant to government code 65962.5. 7. That the design of the subdivision or the type of improvements will conflict with easements, acquired by the public at large, for access through or use of, property within the proposed subdivision. In this connection, the governing body may approve a map if it finds that alternate easements, for access or for use, will be provided, and that these will be substantially equivalent to ones previously acquired by the public. This subsection shall apply only to easements of record or to easements established by judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction and no authority is hereby granted to a legislative body to determine that the public at large has acquired easements for access through or use of property within the proposed subdivision. There are no public access easements over the property currently. Therefore, the design of the subdivision will not conflict with any public easements for access through, or use of, the property. An existing public utility easement along the northern lot line (rear lot line) is no longer necessary and would be vacated in accordance with the conditions of approval of the proposed development application. New public utility easements will be provided to existing and proposed electrical utilities as part of this subdivision map as required in accordance with City of Palo Alto Utilities standards. SECTION 4. Vesting Tentative Map Approval Granted. Vesting Tentative Map Approval is filed and processed in accordance to PAMC Section 21.13.020 and granted by the City Council under Item 3 Attachment B - Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 52     4 3 2 6 2 PAMC Sections 21.12 and 21.20 and the California Government Code Section 66474, subject to the conditions of approval in Section 6 of this Record of Land Use Action. SECTION 5. Final Map. The Final Map submitted for review and approval by the City Council shall be in substantial conformance with the Vesting Tentative Map prepared by BKF Engineers titled “Vesting Tentative Map 739 Sutter Avenue For Condominium Purposes City of Palo Alto, California,” consisting of nine (8) pages, stamped as received February 23, 2024, except as modified to incorporate the conditions of approval in Section 6. A copy of the Vesting Tentative Map is on file in the Department of Planning and Development Services, Current Planning Division. Prior to the expiration of the Vesting Tentative Map approval, the subdivider shall cause the subdivision or any part thereof to be surveyed, and a Final Map, as specified in Chapter 21.08, to be prepared in conformance with the Vesting Tentative Map as conditionally approved, and in compliance with the provisions of the Subdivision Map Act and PAMC Title 21 and submitted to the City Engineer (PAMC Section 21.16.010[a]). SECTION 6. Conditions of Approval. Planning 1. PROJECT PLANS. The Vesting Tentative Map submitted for review and approval by the City Council shall be in substantial conformance with the Vesting Tentative Map titled “Vesting Tentative Map 739 Sutter Avenue For Condominium Purposes City of Palo Alto, California”, prepared by BKF Engineers and submitted February 23, 2024, except as modified to incorporate the conditions of this approval. 2. DENSITY BONUS UNITS. The project seeks a waiver of the minimum street width requirements to permit a minimum 20-foot wide private street. In order to qualify for a waiver from this development standard the project shall provide a minimum of two (2) dwelling units at rates affordable to low income households, as defined in Section 50093 of the Health and Safety Code. 3. FINAL MAP COVER PAGE. At such time as the Final Map is filed, the cover page shall include the name and title of the Director of Planning and Development Services. 4. STANDARD CC&R REQUIREMENTS. Section 16.38 of Palo Alto’s Municipal Code provides that all condominium and other “community housing projects” shall submit Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&R’s) to the City Attorney for approval before issuance of the Final Map. The City Attorney has developed the following standard covenants which shall be included in all CC&R’s. a. PROPERTY SHALL COMPLY WITH CITY ZONING ORDINANCES. The property, including all common areas, private streets and, parks within the property, shall at all times comply with the City’s Zoning Code and shall not be used for any purpose other than as permitted in the City Zoning Code. Item 3 Attachment B - Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 53     5 3 2 6 2 b. MODIFICATIONS TO PROPERTY. Any alterations, modifications, or other improvements to the property shall comply with all applicable City Codes. c. MAINTENANACE AND LANDSCAPING OF COMMON AREAS. The Association is responsible for maintenance and landscaping of all parts of the community housing project which are held in common and such maintenance shall be performed to the standard of maintenance prevalent in the neighborhood. (See PAMC Section 16.38.030(a)). d. TERMINATION OF MANAGER OR MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS. The association may terminate the contract of any person or organization engaged by the developer to perform management or maintenance duties three months after the association assumes control of the community housing project or any time thereafter. (See PAMC Section 16.38.030(b).) e. PROTECTION OF STORM WATER FACILITIES. Neither the association, its residents, nor their agents, employees, representatives, invitees, licensees, customers, or contractors shall alter or modify any storm water facilities in any way including but not limited to placing, maintaining, constructing, or planting any improvements, landscaping or other items, including without limitation decks, stairs, walls, irrigation systems, trees, or any vegetation on any storm water facilities. f.TRASH DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING AREAS SHALL COMPLY WITH CITY ORDINANCES. All trash disposal and recycling areas shall be kept in a clean and sanitary condition and shall comply with all applicable City Ordinances. g. PROHIBITION AGAINST AIR AND WATER POLLUTION. Neither the association, its residents, nor their agents, employees, representatives, invitees, licensees, customers, or contractors shall use the property in any way which emits pollution into the atmosphere in excess of environmental standards set forth by City, State, and Federal laws, ordinances, and regulations. Neither the association, its residents, nor their agents, employees, representatives, invitees, licensees, customers, or contractors shall discharge garbage, trash, waste, or any other substance or materials of any kind into any private or public sewer or waterway on the property in violation of any regulations of any private or public body having jurisdiction over such matters. h. AMENDMENTS TO ORGANIZATION DOCUMENTS REQUIRE CITY APPROVAL. Any amendments or modifications to the organizational documents shall be submitted to the city attorney for approval. No amendment or modification to the organizational documents shall be effective without prior written consent of the city attorney. Item 3 Attachment B - Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 54     6 3 2 6 2 i. CITY’S RIGHT TO ENFORCE COVENANTS AND RESTRICTIONS. The City is hereby granted the right, but in no event the duty, to enforce the covenants and restrictions set forth in this section of the organizational documents. The association shall recognize that it has the primary responsibility for enforcement of the organizational documents and unequivocally guarantees to institute and expeditiously prosecute any required legal action to obtain compliance with all provisions set forth in the organizational documents. j. NO WAIVER OF CITY’S RIGHTS. No failure of the City to enforce any of the covenants or restrictions contained in the organizational documents will in any event render them ineffective. k. CITY’S REMEDIES TO CURE A BREACH OR VIOLATION. Remedies available to the City to cure any breach or violation of the organizational documents shall be cumulative to any other provisions of law. The City’s failure to exercise any remedy provided for in the organizational documents shall not, under any circumstances, be construed as a waiver of the remedy. l. SEVERABILITY. Invalidation of any one of the City’s required covenants or restrictions by judgment or court order shall in no way affect any other provisions which shall remain in full force and effect. 5. ADDITIONAL CC&R REQUIREMENT. The CC&Rs shall also include a provision that dictates the responsibilities of tenants for the trash pickup for the townhomes as shown in the approved plan set. 6. FINAL MAP EXPIRATION. A Final Map, in conformance with the approved Vesting Tentative Map, all requirements of the Subdivision Ordinance (PAMC Section 21.16), and to the satisfaction of the City of Palo Alto and its representatives, shall be filed with the Planning Division and the Public Works Engineering Division within two years of the Vesting Tentative Map approval date or this approval will expire. A one-year extension may be granted in accordance with the allowances set forth in the municipal code. 7. DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES. The Property Owner or their designee shall pay all applicable development impact fees associated with the proposed development and subdivision prior to issuance of the building permit(s), as detailed in the Streamlined Housing Development Review Approval. 8. INDEMNITY. To the extent permitted by law, the Applicant shall indemnify and hold harmless the City, its City Council, its officers, employees and agents (the “indemnified parties”) from and against any claim, action, or proceeding brought by a third party against the indemnified parties and the applicant to attack, set aside or void, any permit or approval authorized hereby for the Project, including (without limitation) reimbursing the City for its actual attorneys’ fees and costs incurred in defense of the litigation. The Item 3 Attachment B - Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 55     7 3 2 6 2 City may, in its sole discretion, elect to defend any such action with attorneys of its own choice. Public Works Engineering 9. PUBLIC WORKS APPLICATIONS, FORMS, AND DOCUMENTS. Applicant shall be advised that most forms, applications, and informational documents related to Public Works Engineering conditions can be found at the following link: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Public-Works/Engineering- Services/Forms-and-Permits 10. OVERVIEW AND GUIDELINES FOR THE REVIEW OF SUBDIVISION PROJECTS. Developer shall familiarize themselves with the guidelines described in the November 2007 revision of the document titled “Overview and Guidelines for the Review of Subdivision Projects”. Particularly Section II (items 5 through 12) and Section V (items A through C). https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/planning-amp-development- services/file-migration/current-planning/forms-and-guidelines/overview-and- guidelines-for-the-review-of-subdivision-projects.pdf 11. MAP THIRD-PARTY REVIEW. The City contracts with a third-party surveyor that will review and provide approval of the map’s technical correctness as the City Surveyor, as permitted by the Subdivision Map Act. The Public Works Department will forward a Scope & Fee Letter from the third-party surveyor and the applicant will be responsible for payment of the fee’s indicated therein, which is based on the complexity of the map. 12. STREETWORK PERMIT. The applicant shall obtain a Streetwork Permit from the Department of Public Works for all public improvements. 13. GRADING AND EXCAVATION PERMIT. A Grading Permit is required per PAMC Chapter 16.28. The permit application and all applicable documents (see Section H of application) shall be submitted to Public Works Engineering. Add the following note: “THIS GRADING PERMIT WILL ONLY AUTHORIZE GENERAL GRADING AND INSTALLATION OF THE STORM DRAIN SYSTEM. OTHER BUILDING AND UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS ARE SHOWN FOR REFERENCE INFORMATION ONLY AND ARE SUBJECT TO SEPARATE BUILDING PERMIT APPROVAL.” 14. GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER STATEMENT: The grading plans shall include the following statement signed and sealed by the Geotechnical Engineer of Record: “THIS PLAN HAS BEEN REVIEWED AND FOUND TO BE IN GENERAL CONFORMANCE WITH THE INTENT AND PURPOSE OF THE GEOTECHNICAL REPORT”. 15. ENCROACHMENT PERMIT: Prior to any work in the public right-of-way, the applicant shall obtain an encroachment permit from the Public Works Department for any work that encroaches onto the City right-of-way. Item 3 Attachment B - Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 56     8 3 2 6 2 16. LOGISTICS PLAN: A construction logistics plan shall be provided addressing all impacts to the public including, at a minimum: work hours, noticing of affected businesses, bus stop relocations, construction signage, dust control, noise control, storm water pollution prevention, job trailer, contractors’ parking, truck routes, staging, concrete pours, crane lifts, scaffolding, materials storage, pedestrian safety, and traffic control. All truck routes shall conform to the City of Palo Alto’s Trucks and Truck Route Ordinance, Chapter 10.48, and the route map. NOTE: Some items/tasks on the logistics plan may require an encroachment permit. SECTION 7. Term of Approval. Vesting Tentative Map. All conditions of approval of the Vesting Tentative Map shall be fulfilled prior to approval of a Final Map (PAMC Section 21.16.010[c]). Unless a Final Map is filed, and all conditions of approval are fulfilled within a two-year period from the date of Vesting Tentative Map approval, the Vesting Tentative Map shall expire and all proceedings shall terminate. An extension of time may be granted by the city council after recommendation of the planning commission, upon the written application of the subdivider, prior to the expiration of the Vesting Tentative Map approval, or any previous extension granted. Such extension(s) shall be subject to the maximum limitations set forth in the Subdivision Map Act. // // // // // // // // // // // // // Item 3 Attachment B - Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 57     9 3 2 6 2 INTRODUCED: PASSED: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTENTIONS: ATTEST: APPROVED: _________________________ ____________________________ City Clerk Mayor APPROVED AS TO FORM: ___________________________ ___________________________ Assistant City Attorney Director of Planning and Development Services PLANS AND DRAWINGS REFERENCED: Those plans prepared by BKF Engineers titled “Vesting Tentative Map 739 Sutter Avenue For Condominium Purposes City of Palo Alto, California,” consisting of nine pages, dated February 20, 2024 and submitted February 24, 2024. Item 3 Attachment B - Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 58     Attachment C Project Plans Project plans are only available to the public online. Hardcopies of the plans have been provided to Commissioners. Environmental Document The City, acting as the lead agency, prepared documentation to support a Class 32 (infill development) categorical exemption for the proposed project. The documentation to support the exemption, including all associated technical analyses are included on the project website Directions to review Project plans online: 1. Go to: bit.ly/PApendingprojects 2. Scroll down to find “739 Sutter Avenue” and click the address link 3. On this project specific webpage you will find a link to the project plans, the documented exemption and other important information Direct Link to Project Webpage: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Planning-Development-Services/Current- Planning/Projects/739-Sutter-Ave Item 3 Attachment C - Project Plans & Environmental Documents     Packet Pg. 59     Item No. 4. Page 1 of 1 Planning & Transportation Commission Staff Report From: Planning and Development Services Director Lead Department: Planning and Development Services Meeting Date: March 27, 2024 Report #: 2402-2579 TITLE Study Session: Retail Study - Recommendations for Strategies RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the PTC hear from the ad hoc committee and consultant and resume its discussion of the recommended strategies initially presented March 13, 2024. BACKGROUND On March 13, 2024, the City’s consultant went through the presentation (Attachment A), members of the PTC ad hoc committee provided a brief overview of the first ad hoc meeting, and the Commission asked questions and provided comments. The PTC continued its discussion to the March 27, 2024 meeting. Staff noted the planned dates for the next two ad hoc meetings (March 26 and April 16), and the tentative date for PTC review and recommendation of the full report (May 8) for an anticipated Council date of June 10, 2024, to receive the recommendations, direct staff and the PTC regarding next steps for zoning amendments and extend the interim ordinance. Links1 to the March 13, 2024 staff report, commission communications, and meeting video are provided below. AUTHOR/TITLE: Amy French, Chief Planning Official 1 Link to PTC report https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/v/1/agendas-minutes-reports/agendas- minutes/planning-and-transportation-commission/2024/ptc-3.13-retail-strategies-policy.pdf, commission communications https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/v/1/agendas-minutes-reports/agendas- minutes/planning-and-transportation-commission/2024/ptc-3.13-commission-communications.pdf and video https://midpenmedia.org/planning-and-transportation-commission-2-3132024/ Item 4 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 60     RETAIL RECOVERY STUDY Planning and Transportation Commission Meeting #3 March 13, 2024 Presented by Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 61     Goal Recommend zoning strategies to help retain, strengthen, and facilitate retail in the key commercial areas of Palo Alto 2 Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 62     Problem: Extensive & Persistent Vacancies Symptoms: • Loss of vibrancy • Reduced activity • Fewer options • Businesses leaving Palo Alto Probable Causes/Contributing Factors: • Retail space exceeds market demand • E-commerce • Reduced office workers • Competition • Palo Alto Regulations • Too complicated, hard to understand, implement • To o restrictive 3 Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 63     Problem – E-Commerce Growth 4 Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 64     Problem – Supply & Competition RETAIL OVERSUPPLY • 461,000 square feet vacant retail • 4 times the 10-year projected growth in demand LOSS OF OFFICE WORKERS • Equal to 111,000 square feet of demand for retail space COMPETITION • Stanford Mall • Big Box Retailers at Palo Alto border • Neighboring Communities 5 Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 65     Problem – Regulations STAKEHOLDER CONSENSUS • Too Complicated: • Hard to understand & implement • Multiple layers of exceptions, exclusions, applicability • Internal conflicts, inconsistencies (permitted uses) • Too Restrictive: • Inflexible/Counter Productive • May deter new retail because can’t change to other uses • Limits retail-supporting uses 6 Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 66     Problem – Why Retail Vacancies Persist? Landlords willing to wait for higher rents via: • Stronger Market in Future • Higher Quality (Profit) Tenant Lease/Rental Factors: • Limited choice of tenants at given time • Expensive Tenant Improvement Costs: • • Longer leases to amortize investments; Careful selection of long-term tenant 7 Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 67     Study Findings (preliminary) PA LO A LTO VACANCY TRENDS: 1. Consistent with National trends 2. Downtown and total Palo Alto at 10-year high (Q1 2024) 3. Increasing since lows in 2015 4. Smaller, neighborhood serving areas - steady and low vacancies 5. Downtown, California Ave - increasing vacancies 6. Highest vacancies in highest rent areas (SM, DT, T&C, Cal Ave) 7. Rent rates increasing slowly, steadily despite increasing vacancies 8 Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 68     Possible Zoning Strategies (preliminary) 1. Allow more Formula Retail uses on California Avenue 2. Allow non-retail on ground floor/former retail spaces 3. Limit RPO to core areas (DT, Cal Ave, neighborhood centers) 4. Lower relief standards; allow Alternative Active Uses 5. Simplify the Zoning Code – user-friendly 9 Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 69     Zoning Strategies – Relaxed Formula Retail • Limit to restaurants (vs all franchises): • Coronado: • Formula Fast Food – Minor SUP; max 2 per site; max 10 per district • Formula Retail – Major SUP; max 50 feet building frontage, 2 stories; (excludesgrocery stores, banks, savings and loans, full-service restaurants and theaters) • Santa Monica – limited to restaurants (fast food) • Increase franchise threshold • Palo Alto – 10 nationwide – any business • Santa Monica – 150 nationwide (restaurants only) • Coronado – 15 restaurants sharing name, logo, etc. • Some by right, without CUP (size, number, concentration) • >2,500 prohibited in downtown; < 2,500 with CUP (Bristol, RI) • CUP in neighborhood business districts (San Francisco) • "Formula retail >20,000 (except grocery stores) shall require aneconomic impact study (303(i) (San Francisco) • < 10% of number of like businesses (clothing, restaurants, etc.) indistrict or jurisdiction (McCall, ID) 10 Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 70     Zoning Strategies – Allow Non-Retail on GF • Not street-facing (i.e., behind retail) • On side streets • When vacancies exceed threshold (%, and/or duration) • Vacancies exceed 5% in district for more than 6 months (prior PA code) • Subject to limits (concentration, size, proximity): • Min. 25% ground floor commercial (PA MU standards) • Max. 15% of total floor area (T&C office) • Max. 30% of all street frontage within 300-foot radius (San Francisco) • Max. 50% of street frontage per building > 100’ frontage (Thousand Oaks) • Allow fitness, spas, exercise > 1,800 sf (3,000 sf is industry average) • Max. size per use w/o CUP (PA for offices, com. Recreation; CN uses) • Not within 200 feet on same side of street • Allow other viable active uses • (e.g., pet grooming, beauty shops, nail salons, barbershops, small learningcenters, day care) • Medical office with retail component, lifestyle, health services 11 Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 71     Zoning Strategies – Limit RPO Applicability • Limit RPO to core areas (DT, Cal Ave, Neighborhood centers) • What areas are priority for retail? • Possible effects of RPO removal: • Retail remains allowed, not required • Allow market to balance (reduce) retail floor area with demand • Allow former retail to convert to other uses over time in non-RPO areas • May attract new retail to non-RPO areas by removing constraint of retail only restriction 12 Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 72     Zoning Strategies – Easier RPO, GF, R Relief Relax Waiver and Adjustment Standards 1. Unconstitutional Taking threshold - Delete/Replace • RPO - 18.40.180(c)(1)(A) • R Retail (California Avenue) – 18.30(A).070(a) 2. Alternative Active Use (practical difficulty): • Make RPO standards instead of Constitutional Taking • Remove RPO relief exclusion for and apply to GF and R Combining Districts -18.40.180(c)(1)(B) 3. Relax the documentation requirements and criteria • 18.40.180(c)(2) 13 Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 73     Zoning Strategies – Simplify the Zoning Code 1. Make easier for staff, applicants, public 2. Comprehensive Code Revision/Cleanup – 1. organize, standardize, 2. clarify intent and purpose, 3. objective standards, 4. simple process, 5. clear, comparative use tables, 6. formal interpretations, etc. 7. Eliminate confusing redundancy, duplication, conflicts 1. CN zone use table vs Midtown (CN zone) vs Ground Floor use table, ALSO redundant with the GF combining district for CN (GF, P) Midtown 2. Multiple conflicts where GF or R combining district allows a use that is not listed (prohibited) in the rest of the underlying district. 3. Fitness studios - <1,800 not permitted in R 14 Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 74     Next Steps UPCOMING MEETINGS May 8 PTC Meeting Final Recommendation and ReportÆ Recommendation to Council June 3 or June 10 City Council Meeting Receive the Report and Extend the Interim Ordinance March 26 Ad hoc Committee Zoning March 27 PTC Meeting Zoning April 16 Ad hoc Committee Zoning and Parking RecommendationsRecommendationsRecommendations 15 Item 4 Attachment A - PowerPoint Presentation March 13 2024     Packet Pg. 75     Item No. 5. Page 1 of 8 Planning & Transportation Commission Staff Report From: Office of Transportation Lead Department: Office of Transportation Meeting Date: March 27, 2024 Report #: 2403-2750 TITLE Study Session: Palo Alto Link (PAL) Evaluation and Report RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Planning and Transportation Commission receive and provide input on Palo Alto Link one-year performance results and funding strategy options aligned with desired long-term program goals, as the pilot service has recently completed a year of service. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Since launching in March 2023, Palo Alto Link has demonstrated that it provides a convenient shared-ride alternative to private vehicles, delivers seamless connections to key points of interest, and enhances the accessibility and sustainability of transit for the Palo Alto community. PROJECT DESCRIPTION Palo Alto Link is operated by microtransit vendor Via aka Nomad Transit Services, Monday through Friday, for a 10-hour service span of 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. The service operates within most of the City, with exceptions only to the east and west ends that house large open spaces and conservation lands. PAL is utilizing a ten (10) vehicle fleet to provide virtually positioned pick-up and drop-off locations within an acceptable walking distance with the help of a web application. Door-to-door service is available for riders who may require extra assistance. The service addresses first-/last-mile challenges in Palo Alto and provides a convenient and affordable transportation option for residents, employees, and vulnerable/transit-dependent populations. BACKGROUND Palo Alto Link has provided on-demand transit service within the City of Palo Alto since March 7, 2023, utilizing Valley Transportation Authority Measure B funds designated for innovative Item 5 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 76     Item No. 5. Page 2 of 8 transit projects. Those funds and trip fares provide an initial budget for 18 months of service. Additional funds from Stanford Research Park expand the pilot service area to include SRP. Following the expenditure of these initial funds, either additional partners or City funds will be needed to continue the service. ANALYSIS Performance Highlights In the first 12 months of service (March 2023 through February 2024), Link completed 50,219 rides, served nearly 900 unique riders per month, and had an average wait time of 13.8 minutes. Rider Growth Completed rides steadily grew month over month, increasing by 54% over the course of the first twelve months. Link continues to attract new riders while maintaining a strong engaged rider base, where approximately 75% of trips are taken by returning riders, and the average rider takes more than 5 trips per month. This fast rider adoption demonstrates that Link is providing a crucial means of transportation throughout Palo Alto — especially to key community resources such as major employers, transit stations, and local schools, as detailed further in the later location sections. Survey Findings Between September and October 2023, 265 Link riders provided their feedback through an in- app survey. The survey revealed the following key takeaways regarding rider sentiment: •Equity. Vulnerable and transit dependent riders were impacted the most by Link: 46% of respondents do not have access to a personal vehicle and 43% qualify for discounted fares (50% of discounted fares were for seniors and low-income riders). •Affordability. Many riders noted that the service provided an affordable way to reach jobs and medical appointments and gave riders with mobility limitations “greater independence”. •Sustainability. Link has encouraged riders to choose shared transit, with 52% of riders reporting that they would have otherwise used high-emission private vehicle travel. Not only does Link unlock mobility for riders without single occupancy vehicles (SOVs), residents reported that the service enables them to reduce or forgo car ownership. As one rider stated, “Link was a key part of my decision to not purchase a car upon moving to Palo Alto.” Top Location & Partnerships SRP Partnership History of Link’s SRP Partnership Prior to the launch of Palo Alto Link, Stanford Research Park (SRP) — a business park hosting many of the largest employers in the city — committed to invest $31,000 monthly in Palo Alto Link, given the service’s focus on facilitating commutes to and from the SRP businesses. The SRP Item 5 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 77     Item No. 5. Page 3 of 8 investment represents 21% of the total funding amount for the Palo Alto Link pilot program, with the remaining funds coming from fares and the City’s Measure B grant. In return, the City set up the Link service to be completely free for all trips to/from SRP (relative to the standard adult fare of $3.50 per trip). A trip counts as an SRP trip if it starts or ends within the green area within the broader blue Link service area shown below. SRP Link Trip Data & Performance Link’s partnership with SRP has demonstrated that providing flexible commuter options supports employees in returning to the office and connecting to other destinations in the surrounding community. From March 2023 through February 2024, trips to/from SRP made up over 28% of all Link trips. Thanks to the high quality of service, SRP trips continue to grow over time, making up nearly 35% of all trips in January. Of the 30 businesses located within SRP, 11 were among the top 25 Link pick-up and drop-off locations — with the top locations being Stanford Medicine, Tesla, Rubrik, HP, and Lockheed Martin. Reviewing an in-depth analysis of the times of pick-ups and drop-offs, staff observe that the Link service remains complimentary to SRP’s existing Caltrain shuttles. Future SRP Support SRP has expressed their support for continuing Link and investing in the ongoing operation of Item 5 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 78     Item No. 5. Page 4 of 8 the service. The City is in discussions with SRP to determine the amount that they would like to commit to Palo Alto Link moving forward. SRP has also identified potential improvements that would even better serve their employers, including expanded service hours to better meet commuting needs. In particular, SRP hosts evening events that often end after Link has concluded. Staff have also identified several “whitelist” points that may help facilitate reduced wait times at specific employer headquarters. Additionally, staff believe that more targeted marketing and outreach to companies within SRP could also facilitate increased use of the service. Other Top Locations & Prospective Partners Beyond facilitating commutes for SRP employees, Palo Alto Link connects riders to key community sites, centers of employment, and transportation hubs. Table 1 summarizes the top pick-up and drop-off locations. Table 1: Palo Alto Link Top Locations, March 2023-January 2024 Top Location % of all Link Trips (average March - Jan) Stanford Research Park 27% (closer to 30-35% in recent months) Palo Alto & Gunn High Schools collectively 15% (PA High School = 9%; Gunn = 4%) Stanford Mall 4% Caltrain Stations (Palo Alto and CalAve Stations collectively) 2% Cubberley Community Center 1.6% Fletcher, Green, JLS Middle Schools 2% Stanford Hospital 1.4% Source: Via The Palo Alto and Via teams have hosted a series of meetings with different community stakeholders including Stanford Research Park, Tesla, Stanford Mall, the Palo Alto Transportation Management Association (TMA), and Stanford University. To better understand the particular mobility needs of specific stakeholders, staff have conducted outreach to the following private partners: 1. Schools: Palo Alto Unified School District, Stanford University Item 5 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 79     Item No. 5. Page 5 of 8 2. Retail: Stanford Mall, Palo Alto Transportation Management Association, Town & Country 3. Community and Senior Facilities: Channing House, Cubberley Community Center. City and Via staff are in the midst of determining whether these stakeholders are willing to commit funds towards the ongoing operation of Palo Alto Link. Lastly, staff note that seniors continue to represent a key ridership demographic for Link. As such, local entities such as Channing House have offered to contribute financially to the service to continue providing mobility access for their residents to attend medical appointments, go grocery shopping, and keep in touch with their friends and families. Staff continue to explore partnership with organizations like Channing House who may be able to contribute financially to the existing Link service. Future Scenarios for Consideration Remaining Program Budget Link was originally planned as an 18-month pilot program, starting from March 2023 and lasting through August 2024. The original budget for this pilot program was $2,601,550, including $2,000,000 from the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) and up to $744,000 from the Stanford Research Park. From March 2023 through January 2024, the City has spent $1,533,557 in fares, grant funds, start-up costs, and SRP support to operate the service. With the remaining budget of $1,067,993, Link could continue operating through August 2024 — assuming operations with the current level of service. The City has been awarded a Transportation Fund for Clean Air (TFCA) grant which will provide $441,000 in additional funding which is expected to extend service through November 2024 and replace hybrid wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAV) to electric models. Transitioning to an all EV fleet entails some additional costs that have been built into all the funding scenarios described below. Funding Scenarios Additional funds are needed to allow the Link program to continue operating through the end of the 2024-25 fiscal year (through June 2025). The exact amount required to operate through June 2025 will depend on the level of investment that the City decides to put into the growth of the service. Three potential scenarios are outlined in Table 2, followed by more detailed descriptions of each. Item 5 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 80     Item No. 5. Page 6 of 8 Table 2: Potential Funding Scenarios for FY25 Scenario Description 12-Month Cost (Jul '24 - Jun '25) Funding Gap* (additional $ above- remaining budget estimated) A. Minimum Investment Continue operating at the current service level $1,700,000 $900,000 B. Minor Supply Growth Increase supply by 5% to meet organic demand growth $1,800,000 $1,000,000 C. Service Hour Extension + Supply Growth Scenario B plus extend the weekday schedule by 3 hours $2,300,000 $1,500,000 Source: City of Palo Alto and Via *The funding gap equals the total cost to implement each scenario through June 2025, minus the remaining funds in the pilot budget, minus the following new funds that will be available to invest in the service: 1. $441,000 of awarded funds through Santa Clara County’s Transportation Fund for Clean Air (TFCA) grant program 2. $31,000 per month from Stanford Research Park Scenario A: Minimum Investment If the Palo Alto Link were to continue operating at the current service level approximately $900,000 would be needed, in addition to the remaining budget, to last through June 2025. However, staff anticipates that ridership demand will continue to grow, and as a result, the current investment in vehicle and driver supply will not be sufficient to meet this growing demand and maintain the desired service quality levels (e.g., ability to fulfill demand and maintain wait times around 15 minutes). This approach would likely not provide the supply levels required to absorb demand nor the service quality that riders have come to expect. Scenario B: Minor Growth Support To absorb organic demand growth over the next year, the City could increase supply by at least 5% to ensure that the Link program can continue operating in a way that meets the needs of the community. This 5% increase in supply (vehicle service hours) — which would require an additional investment of $1,000,000 — would allow the Link to absorb an expected demand increase of 5-10% over the coming year, while continuing to meet customer expectations for quality of service. Item 5 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 81     Item No. 5. Page 7 of 8 Scenario C: Service Hour Extension Beyond supporting organic demand growth within the current service parameters, the City could pursue minor expansions in response to community feedback. As highlighted below, Link riders are eager for the service to expand in terms of operating hours and coverage area. While future geographic expansion may be desirable in the future, this scenario extends the service schedule as the top-priority expansion. Specifically, this scenario extends the weekday schedule by 3 hours to capture anticipated demand in the morning and evening commute hours: •Current Link Schedule: Monday - Friday 8 AM - 6 PM •Proposed Link Schedule: Monday - Friday 7 AM - 8 PM The cost of extending the service schedule as described above, combined with the cost of increasing supply by 5% to support organic demand growth, Scenario C would require an additional $1,500,000. FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT Additional funding for maintaining the current service level has been incorporated as a proposal for the FY 2025 Proposed General Fund Operating Budget. Staff continues to explore additional strategic partners as well as additional grant opportunities to reduce the City’s cost. Funding structure and summary of budget requirements will be developed based on the City Council’s input and direction regarding future service levels desired should the pilot program be continued. STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT Public engagement is ongoing since the program launched on March 7. Stakeholders targeted for notification of the service include Caltrain riders, commuters to Palo Alto, service providers Item 5 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 82     Item No. 5. Page 8 of 8 targeting older adults, senior living communities, youth service providers, neighborhood groups, etc. Community engagement and marketing activities have included a project webpage on the City’s website, flyer/brochure distribution, targeted presentations to special groups (i.e senior living communities), tabling at community events and destinations (MSC Open House, Earth Day events, Farmer’s Market, Caltrain stations, grocery stores) and social media campaigns (NextDoor, Facebook, Uplift Local, local newspapers, City blog posts, etc.). Stanford Research Park has also been providing notification to and engagement with their stakeholders to encourage ridership. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW This study session is not a project as defined by CEQA because no action or commitment is anticipated. Should the City eventually decide to extend, stop, or alter the Palo Alto Link program beyond the existing configuration, the City will evaluate CEQA at that time. ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS Discontinue the service when current designated funds are all expended. AUTHOR/TITLE: Nathan Baird, Manager Transportation Planning Item 5 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 83