HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 2501-3968CITY OF PALO ALTO
CITY COUNCIL
Special Meeting
Tuesday, January 21, 2025
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Agenda Item
13.2024 Council Priorities and Objectives Q4 Report
City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: INFORMATION REPORTS
Lead Department: City Manager
Meeting Date: January 21, 2025
Report #:2501-3968
TITLE
2024 Council Priorities and Objectives Q4 Report
RECOMMENDATION
This is an informational report that provides progress updates on the 2024 Council Priorities
and Objectives approved by the City Council on March 25, 2024. No action is needed.
BACKGROUND
On January 29, 2024, the Council held its annual retreat to approve the 2024 Council Priorities.1
The Priority Setting Guidelines define a priority as a topic that will receive unusual and
significant attention during the year. At the conclusion of the retreat, the City Council approved
the following priorities:
• Economic Development and Transition
• Climate Change and the Natural Environment: Protection and Adaptation
• Housing for Social and Economic Balance
• Community Health, Safety, Wellness and Belonging
Over a series of meetings, the Council reviewed the proposed Objectives and on March 25,
2024, Council approved all the 78 Objectives meant to reflect potential Council actions, be
measurable and time-bound to make real progress in advancing Council Priorities.2 These are
summarized in Attachment A of the report.
ANALYSIS
1 City Council Retreat January 29, 2024
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=13339
2 City Council Meeting March 25, 2024
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=15043
Progress on Council Priorities is measured by the accomplishments of its subset objectives and
reported on a calendar quarterly basis. Calendar Q4 spans the months October through
December 2024. A summary table of all 78 objectives is listed in Attachment A, including an
estimated completion date, which is also measured in calendar quarters. A narrative on each
objective update is found in Attachment B, it includes:
Project Description- Describes overall project goals and outcomes which may span beyond the
calendar year.
2024 Milestone- Describes activities and outcomes planned for the calendar year as some
projects are multi-year in length and are broken up into phases.
Project Status-
•Completed - Project as described in the 2024 milestone is overall complete, though
some minor/non-substantive follow-up may still be needed.
•On-Track- Project is expected to be completed as specified. Any changes in project
scope or timing due to Council direction or action will remain labeled On Track with the
new estimated timeframe.
•Behind Schedule/Not Started - The project estimated completion date may be delayed
due to operational issues, capacity constraints (such as vacancies in staffing), or project
has not started by the estimated completion date.
•On Hold/Dropped - Project is not actively in progress or will no longer move forward in
the current year. Reasons may include the issue is no longer relevant, operational
constraints, or is stalled/dropped due to council direction.
Estimated Completion - The calendar quarter in which the objective is expected to be
completed.
Department Lead - Identifies the lead department and project manager responsible for
coordinating progress.
Quarterly Update - a brief progress update on the project describes work reflected in the
respective calendar quarter. Any delays or project issues will be reflected in this section.
The year-end review of the 78 Council objectives supporting Council priorities, in the fourth
quarter, a total of 60 (77%) have been completed or are on track with new Council direction, 17
are behind schedule (22%), and 1 (1%) is on hold. Objectives with a revised estimated
completion date are notated with an asterisk (*) in the revised estimated completion quarter
and explanation in the Quarterly Update section of the objective summary in Attachment B.
Council Priority Area Completed
On
Track
Behind
Schedule
On Hold/
Dropped Total
Economic Development & Transition
(ED&T)
9 0 3 0 12
Climate Change and the Natural
Environment: Protection and
Adaptation (CC&NE)
17 0 6 0 23
Housing for Social and Economic
Balance (HSEB)
15 2 4 1 22
Community Health, Safety, Wellness
and Belonging (CHSW&B)
15 3 3 0 21
TOTAL 55 5 17 1 78
The highest number of objectives was accomplished in the Economic Development and
Business Transition priority, boasting a 75% completion rate, followed by Community Health,
Safety, Wellness and Belonging priority with 71%. As noted in the table above, 5 objectives
(6%) remain categorized as On Track. These objectives are labeled as On Track either because
they represent ongoing efforts or because the scope of the project was revised due to Council
direction, which subsequently impacted the estimated completion date. These objectives are
On Track based on the revised scope and timeline.
One objective was placed On Hold in the Housing for Social and Economic Balance priority for
reasons outside of the City’s control. Objective HS&EB 56. Finalize development plan to
maintain affordability and improve conditions at Buena Vista Mobile Park was placed on hold
due to actions taken by the Housing Authority. Staff is working with the Housing Authority to
better understand its reasons for pausing the redevelopment and to determine next steps.
The Behind Schedule category makes up 22% of objectives for a total of 17, with the majority in
the Climate Change & Natural Environment: Protection and Adaptation. However, almost 65%
of those are estimated to be completed by Q1 2025.
FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
Resource impacts for the objectives’ 2024 milestones have been identified and resourced
through the FY 2024 and FY 2025 budget processes; however, any changes to scope may result
in additional resources needed. Staff will assess any scope changes and bring forward
recommendations for additional resources if needed as part of the FY 2025 Mid-Year Budget
Review.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
In March 2024, Council was presented with community engagement strategies based on the
approved 2024 Priorities and Objectives.3 There are various levels of community engagement
and communication strategies to support each project, including internal coordination among
City departments.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The Council informational report on this item is not a project as defined by CEQA because the
Council review of 2024 Priority Objectives is continuing administrative or maintenance activity.
CEQA Guidelines section 15378 (b)(2).
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: 2024 Council Priorities and Objectives Q4 Summary Table
Attachment B: 2024 Council Priorities and Objectives Q4 Update
APPROVED BY:
Ed Shikada, City Manager
3 Community Engagement Strategies:
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/viewer?id=0&type=7&uid=97ef19a0-2521-4f09-aa0b-a804f7dad50c
# Objective Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
1 Facilitate the establishment of sustainable business organization in the Cal Ave, DT, and Midtown districts x
2 Engage Cal Ave merchants on high priority, rapid implementation projects, i.e. barrier replacement, street cleaning, maintenance, access, signage and outdoor dining guidelines x **
3 Develop permanent Cal Ave car‐free steetscape design through engagement with Cal Ave merchants and community stakeholders (h)x **
4 Initiate preliminary analysis and stakeholder engagement on a car‐free streetscape design for Ramona Street x
5 Approve prefrerred alternative for the University Ave Streetscape Plan in preparation for environmental review and funding options (i)x *
6 Develop pre‐approved parklet designs with stakeholder outreach, for Council approval x
7 Implement ongoing parklet program in compliance with adopted parklet standards, leveraging pre‐approved designs (e)x
8 Advance Downtown Parking garage in conjunction with advancement of affordable housing in the Downtown x
9 Advance complete build out of fiber pilot phase 1 with grid modernization **
10 Establish regular engagement with retail brokers in the area to create stronger connections and understand how the City may be able to help promote available spaces x
11 Research and evaluate options for implementing a public‐private small and local business and incubation and vacant storefront program connecting landlords experiencing vacancy
with small and local‐businesses that may be seeking brick and mortar spaces x *
12 Conduct business stakeholder outreach and present to Council recommendations for a citywide retail zoning strategy and receive direction for zoning ordinance implementation (k) x *
13 Deploy 65,000 residential Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) meters by end of 2024 (l)**
14 Conduct community engagement and data collection and analysis to develop a Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Safety Action Plan for Council approval in 2024 x
15 Continue community engagement efforts to inform the update and receive Council feedback on the 2025 Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) characteristics in
preparation for next steps including environmental review and adoption in 2025 (m)**
16 Complete initial pilot area of electric grid modernization (p)**
17 Initiate development of a model to transition gas utility including community outreach and policy discussions x
18 Continue to improve the Advanced Heat Pump Water Heater Pilot Program in preparation for a full‐scale program (q)x
19 Adopt a residential whole home electrification pilot program (r)x
20 Refine existing HVAC pilot program to encourage participation as a next step toward a 2025 Council approved commercial rooftop HVAC electrification advanced pilot program(s)x
21 Develop and approve an Electric Vehicle Strategic Plan (t)x
22 Develop an EV Replacement Program for the City Fleet x
23 Develop and initiate implementation of a Reliability and Resiliency Strategic Plan (u)x
24 Develop draft S/CAP funding study with Council input (v)x
25 Evaluate and report out Palo Alto Link pilot performance and consider continuation and/or expansion of future services x *
26 Begin community engagement to consider parking policy updates that enhance customer satisfaction, improve program sustainability, and aligns with S/CAP mobility goals x **
27 Amend local building regulations to establish a "one Margin" energy efficiency standard, to allow installation of natural gas plumbing while imposing more stringent energy efficiency
and all‐electric readiness requirements to all new buildings x
28 Initiate the 2026 California Building Standards Code update, including the California Green Building Standards Code x
29 Complete community engagement for the Airport’s Long‐Range Facilities & Sustainability Plan in accordance with Federal requirements and hold a study session with Council on the
draft plan x
30 Council selection of a locally preferred alternatives for City Rail/Grade Separation project at Churchill Avenue, Meadow Drive, and Charleston Rd x
31 Advocate for the San Francisquito Creek Flood Protection capital project (Reach 2) through Council’s JPA representation and any Council approvals involved (w) x
32 Complete design and right‐of‐way acquisition, obtain regulatory permits, finalize project funding needs including potential Council advocacy with State legislators, and approve
construction contract for the Newell Road Bridge Replacement project (x)x **
33 Coordinate with Federal and regional partners on a path forward exploring the development of a Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan (5) x
34 Approve stream/creek corridor setback ordinance (4)x **
35 Approve a bird safe glass and wildlife light pollution protections ordinance (6)x **
36 Approve project funding and a consultant contract to develop and identify housing opportunity sites through the Downtown Housing Plan, including community outreach (dd) x
37 Submit a compliant Housing Element to the state department of Housing and Community Development (ee)x
38 Approve final North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan (NVCAP) (ff)x *
39 Receive Cal Poly San Luis Obispo student‐led concept plan for San Antonio Corridor x
40 Approve consultant contract to initiate a Specific Plan for San Antonio Road Corridor including project goals and outcomes (8) **
41 Initiate a review and make recommendations for a possible extension of the Housing Focus area to other geographic locations along El Camino Real x
42 Evaluate sources and methods for raising significant funding to support affordable housing x
43 Conduct a policy review with criteria for Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA)x *
44 Approve a consultant contract to assess housing development impact fees for the conversion from a per unit to per square foot basis x
45 Refine implementation of City’s SB9 objective development and urban lot split standards (HSEB 14) (ll)x
46 Adopt an ordinance that implements Housing Element Program 3.4 related to the housing incentive program **
47 Amend the municipal fee schedule and prepare economic feasibility analysis that implements Housing Element Program 3.1 related to fee waivers and adjustments x
48 Initiate a study implementing Housing Element Program 6.5 related to alternative housing types x
49 Adopt an ordinance implementing various Housing Element Programs x
50 Initiate analysis to amend the zoning code to implement Housing Element Program 3.9 related to commercial floor area x
51 Partner with Santa Clara County Housing Authority to achieve 2024 milestones on construction timeline for Palo Alto Homekey project to provide transitional housing and services for
unhoused residents (pp)**
52 Conduct a gap analysis of housing and services for the unhoused in Palo Alto, considering Council direction, City activities and work, and County activities and work x
53 Initiate research to understand Palo Alto unhoused population and explore feasibility of expanding safe parking options on Geng Road x
54 Council discussion of possible ordinance related to fair chance renter policy x **
55 Council discussion of possible anti‐rent gouging policy x *
56 Finalize development plan to maintain affordability and improve conditions at Buena Vista Mobile Park x *
57 Approve a service contract to initiate Renter Registry implementation (cc)x
58 Complete reopening of libraries to budgeted level (rr)x
59 Approval of multi‐year agreement for provisions of animal shelter services (ss)x
60 Develop a workplan to enhance community special events with focus on inclusion (tt)x
61 Reach a tentative agreement with PAUSD on long term use of the Cubberley property (uu)x *
62 Evaluate Recreation Wellness Center Feasibility (vv)x *
63 Evaluate HSRAP funding allocation as a percent (%) of the General Fund (11)x
64 Facilitate a location for La Comida in North Palo Alto (12)x
65 Increase support and funding for youth mental health (13)x
66 Complete Trusted Response Urgent Support Team (TRUST) Augmentation pilot and evaluate the effort x
67 Support visible police presence by ensuring stable staffing (recruiting and retention) through hiring ahead program (ww)x
68 Initiate upgrade of Police Department field based video hardware x
69 Approve vendor selection for 911 dispatch system (CAD provider) (yy)x *
70 Approve updated Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (aaa)x
71 Update Foothills Fire Management Plan and Community Wildfire Protection Plan (bbb)x
72 Complete construction of the new Public Safety Building including department move‐in (ccc)x **
73 Council award of a construction contract for Fire Station No. 4 Replacement (ddd)**
74 Enhance Caltrain Safety and security x
75 Approve consulting contract to initiate work, including stakeholder engagement, related to the Seismic and Resiliency Ordinance (eee)**
76 Initiate work to conduct a Quiet Zone study at Churchill Ave, Meadow Drive, and Charleston Rd and begin initial analysis and regional stakeholder outreach x
77 Implement strategies for promoting unleaded fuel and phasing out leaded fuel (ggg)x
78 Continue engagement with San Francisco Airport on SFO's Ground Based Augmentation System (GBAS) project and other potential opportunities to decrease SFO noise
impacts on Palo Alto (iii)x
Total 78 Objectives
* Objectives with a revised estimated completion date are notated with an asterisk (*) in the revised estimated completion quarter
** Objectives with a revised estimated completion date in 2025 are noted with two asterisks (**)
Invest in Reliable Safety Infrastructure and Systems
Reduction of Noise and Air Quality Pollution
Advance Housing Plans
Implement Housing Production Policies
Support Unhoused Service Initiatives
Advance Renter Protection Policies
COMMUNITY HEALTH, SAFETY, WELLNESS & BELONGING (CHSW&B)
Mental & Physical Health and Belonging
HOUSING FOR SOCIAL & ECONOMIC BALANCE (HS&EB)
2024 City Council Priorities and Objectives: Q4 Update
Estimated Completion
Economic Development & Transition (ED&T)
Focus on Commercial Corridors, Downtown and California Ave
Support Economic Development and Business Transition
CLIMATE CHANGE & THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT: PROTECTION & ADAPTATION (CC&NE)
Climate Change Protection
Climate Change Adaptation: Flood Protection
Natural Environment
ATTACHMENT A
ATTACHMENT B
2024 City Council Priorities & Objectives
Calendar Q4 Update
Overall
The year-end review of the 78 Council objectives supporting Council priorities, in the fourth quarter, a
total of 60 (77%) have been completed or are on track with new Council direction, 17 are behind
schedule (22%), and 1 (1%) is on hold.
Economic Development & Transition
ED&T 1. Facilitate the establishment of sustainable business organization in the Cal Ave, DT, and
Midtown districts
Project Manager: Steve Guagliardo Lead Dept: CMO
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Work to meet monthly with local businesses on a ‘by district’ basis to increase communication,
collaboration, and foster business organizing in each district.
2024 Project Milestones:
Actively work with stakeholders in the California Ave, University Avenue Downtown, and Midtown
districts to convene on a regular basis and enhance communications between the City and business
stakeholders.
Quarterly Update:
ATTACHMENT B
California Avenue has met regularly since December 2023. Staff convened University Ave Downtown
stakeholders in May and continued engagement through the University Avenue Streetscape
stakeholder meetings. Midtown met monthly beginning in the fall of 2023 but have asked for a pause
so they can explore options to better organize themselves. This is an ongoing objective, as staff will
continue to partner with businesses in these districts to promote shared stewardship of the City’s
commercial districts.
ED&T 2. Engage Cal Ave merchants on high priority, rapid implementation projects, i.e. barrier
replacement, street cleaning, maintenance, access, signage and outdoor dining guidelines
Project Manager: Bruce Fukuji Lead Dept: CMO
Estimated Completion Q2*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description: Work with California Avenue stakeholders on immediate improvements to the
street in parallel to the long-term car-free streetscape design.
2024 Project Milestones:
Project goals include Barrier Cover Replacement, enhanced street cleaning and maintenance, and
signage off El Camino Real directing folks to California Avenue parking garages, and outdoor dining
guidelines.
Quarterly Update:
On December 16, 2024, City Council approved contract to enable paving work to start early next year
at the El Camino Real, Ash Street and Birch Street intersections along California Avenue. Paving work
consists of street grinding and resurfacing, new colored stamped asphalt paving, bollards, bike lane
striping and bicycle signage. A second contractor will install planters and plantings after paving work
completes. Staff is simultaneously coordinating with Caltrans for approval of an encroachment
permit to reconfigure the eastbound bicycle lane; the permit has been delayed due to additional
Caltrans information requests. Urban Field Studio is preparing a draft outdoor dining guidelines for
staff review early 2025.
*Revised estimated completion date is now Q1 2025.
ED&T 3. Develop permanent Cal Ave car-free streetscape design through engagement with Cal Ave
merchants and community stakeholders (h)
Project Manager: Bruce Fukuji Lead Dept: CMO
Estimated Completion Q3*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
Develop a feasible, achievable community and business supported street design concept to modify
and permanently designate California Avenue as a car-free, bicycle friendly, outdoor dining, shopping
and public space environment, including guidelines for outdoor dining, signage and wayfinding.
2024 Project Milestones:
Develop near and long-term signage and wayfinding concepts; conduct merchant, resident, and
stakeholder engagement; analyze existing mobility and circulation; develop preliminary and
alternative streetscape design concepts and probable cost estimates; select and refine a preferred
design; evaluate legislative options; assess CEQA needs; and develop implementation plan.
Quarterly Update:
Urban Field Studio has completed a preliminary signage and wayfinding plan and is preparing draft
outdoor dining guidelines for staff review early next year. Staff and Urban Field Studio organized
merchant and community feedback into design goals, objectives and evaluation criteria and are
ATTACHMENT B
developing two street space allocation alternatives for community input and feedback early next year.
Staff and M-Group are preparing CEQA documentation for Council action to permanently close
California Avenue.
*Based on current progress, this objective will likely complete in Q2 2025.
ED&T 4. Initiate preliminary analysis and stakeholder engagement on a car-free streetscape design
for Ramona Street
Project Manager: Ashwini Kantak Lead Dept: CMO
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Conduct environmental analysis and bring forward permanent closure of street for Council action.
Engage stakeholders and develop outdoor dining standards, wayfinding signage, and street
enhancements that reflect the historic designation of this portion of Ramona Street.
2024 Project Milestones:
Engage a consultant for CEQA and a consultant for the design and outdoor dining standards. Conduct
stakeholder engagement, perform environmental analysis to support permanent closure of a portion
of the street to vehicular traffic, and begin development of outdoor dining standards.
Quarterly Update:
Urban Planning Partners Inc. (UPP) was selected as the design consultant in late August. City Council
approved the design consultant contract on December 16, 2024. UPP will initiate stakeholder
engagement and development of outdoor dining standards and a street design for near-term
improvements on Ramona Street in early 2025, with completion of outdoor dining standards
anticipated in spring 2025 and street design in summer 2025. Concurrent to this work, Staff and M
Group are working on CEQA analysis, and a General Plan amendment will be brought forward for
Council consideration in March 2025.
ED&T 5. Approve preferred alternative for the University Ave Streetscape Plan in preparation for
environmental review and funding options (i)
Project Manager: Holly Boyd Lead Dept: PW
Estimated Completion: Q3*Status: Completed
Project Description:
Develop and implement a streetscape plan for University Avenue that is approved by Council and
supported by property owners.
2024 Project Milestones:
Following approval of consultant contract amendment, approve concept plan and next steps to
secure capital funding.
Quarterly Update:
Staff will continue to engage the stakeholder working group and the community at large. A
stakeholder working group meeting was held on November 13 and a community survey was
conducted from October through November. Input gathered through this outreach informed the
concept plan approved by the Council on December 9, 2024. At that meeting, Council also directed
staff to bring back a consultant contract amendment to proceed to the design phase, which will occur
in 2025.
* Revised estimated completion is now Q4.
ATTACHMENT B
ED&T 6. Develop pre-approved parklet designs with stakeholder outreach, for Council approval
Project Manager: Ashwini Kantak Lead Dept: CMO
Estimated Completion: Q2 Status: Completed
Project Description:
To support business operations during the pandemic, outdoor dining and retail were allowed to
extend outdoors. A temporary parklet program within City rights-of-way was adopted by Council to
facilitate economic recovery efforts and provide guidance on structure regulations. The next phase of
the program formalizes the parklet program and creates an ongoing parklet ordinance.
2024 Project Milestones:
Develop a parklet prototype, conduct business engagement for Council adoption.
Quarterly Update:
Pre-approved parklet designs were approved by the Architectural Review Board in May 2024. On
June 10, the City Council approved revisions to the ongoing parklet program regulations and the
parklet designs and draft user guide. Pre-approved parklet design shop drawings and associated user
guide were made available for use in mid-August.
ED&T 7. Implement ongoing parklet program in compliance with adopted parklet standards,
leveraging pre-approved designs (e)
Project Manager: Ashwini Kantak Lead Dept: CMO
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
To support business operations during the pandemic, outdoor dining and retail were allowed to
extend outdoors. A temporary parklet program within City rights-of-way was adopted by Council to
facilitate economic recovery efforts and provide guidance on structure regulations. The next phase of
the program formalizes the parklet program and creates an ongoing parklets ordinance.
2024 Project Milestones:
Develop pre-approved designs and user guide, conduct business engagement, and prepare an
ordinance for Council adoption.
Quarterly Update:
Updated standards for the ongoing parklet program were adopted by Council on June 10, 2024.
Through the summer the City worked with parklet operators to implement the ongoing parklets
program. Implementation and phased enforcement of the ongoing parklets program were carefully
coordinated to minimize disruption of outdoor dining in existing parklets through the summer months
and to allow re-built or new parklets to leverage the pre-approved designs. Full enforcement of the
ongoing parklet program began on November 1.
ED&T 8. Advance Downtown Parking garage in conjunction with advancement of affordable
housing in the Downtown
Project Manager: Julia Knight Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Resume work on a new parking structure in the Downtown core on a City surface parking lot to help
attract visitors downtown. Pursue refined proposals for potential affordable housing development on
the Lytton / Kipling Lot T at 450 Lytton Avenue, or elsewhere, with parking for residents and the public.
2024 Project Milestones:
ATTACHMENT B
Staff anticipates continuing through creation of a Request for Refined Proposals to identify a
development partner for this work.
Quarterly Update:
A request for refined proposals was sent in late September to the two firms that responded to the
initial request for information and responses were received in late October. A report including the
responses and a recommendation of development partner is anticipated to be brought forward for
Council consideration in January 2025. The timeline for the project was adjusted due to end of year
scheduling conflicts, and to allow additional time for analysis.
ED&T 9. Complete build out of fiber pilot phase 1 with grid modernization
Project Manager: Alex Harris Lead Dept: UTL
Estimated Completion: Q4*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
The City is advancing a pilot phase 1 of fiber with grid modernization to bring reliable and faster
broadband, high-speed internet services directly to companies and homes, supporting business and
remote workers. The City recently completed the pilot design for the Palo Alto Fiber project and
aligned with the electric grid modernization to capitalize on economies of scale and reduce
neighborhood disruptions.
2024 Project Milestones:
Complete buildout of fiber and grid modernization pilot. Issue RFP for Operating Support
Systems/Business Support Systems (OSS/BSS) and invitation for construction bids for phase 1
implementation.
Quarterly Update:
The start of fiber construction in the pilot areas depends on two key milestones: the installation of
the fiber hut at the Colorado power station and the completion of pole replacement and preparation
work. Staff is still finalizing the fiber hut design, which has taken longer than anticipated with our
vendor/partners. Once the design is completed, staff can finalize the internal building and fire permits
for review. The fiber hut is still expected to be installed by the end of Q1 2025. Electric pole work,
including pole replacements and hanging messenger wires, is currently underway and on track for
completion by Q1 2025. Fiber cables can be strung once this work is finished. The RFP for the fiber
OSS/BSS software is also in progress and staff will be interviewing vendors starting in the middle of
Nov 2024 thru Jan 2025. Existing fiber construction and IT networking equipment contracts will be
utilized to build out the pilot area, while new RFPs for the remaining areas in Phase 1 will be issued
2025.
*Based on estimated progress, the objective may be completed by Q3 2025.
ED&T 10. Establish regular engagement with retail brokers in the area to create stronger
connections and understand how the City may be able to help promote available spaces
Project Manager: Steve Guagliardo Lead Dept: CMO
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Strengthen relationships with commercial brokers, address perceived deficiencies identified by
brokers in City processes, and work with brokers to reduce vacancies and increase economic vitality.
2024 Project Milestones:
Create a directory of commercial brokers operating in Palo Alto and develop a calendar of regular
outreach to brokers. Address information gaps that brokers identify through conversations.
ATTACHMENT B
Quarterly Update:
Staff has met with brokers numerous times on an ad hoc, issue-by-issue basis and raised the idea of a
more formal meeting with different brokerages. This has been met with interest and staff will develop
options to convene brokers with City staff to further strengthen relationships. This could include a
‘broker breakfast’ or similar event.
Staff also conducted semi-structured interviews with several brokers. These interviews gave brokers a
forum to discuss how the City could better support their efforts. These discussions have already
produced positive outcomes, including increased broker engagement at our Retail Committee
meetings. This is an ongoing objective.
ED&T 11. Research and evaluate options for implementing a public-private small and local business
and incubation and vacant storefront program connecting landlords experiencing vacancy with
small and local-businesses that may be seeking brick and mortar spaces
Project Manager: Steve Guagliardo Lead Dept: CMO
Estimated Completion: Q3*Status: Completed
Project Description:
Explore options for activating vacant spaces, either through short-term activations of vacant
storefronts or coordinating longer-term public/private partnerships
2024 Project Milestones:
In 2024, staff will be researching other cities’ programs, including Santa Cruz Downtown POPS! as well
as San Francisco’s “Vacant to Vibrant” program.
Quarterly Update:
Staff has begun preliminary research and has discussed similar programs with counterparts in other
cities. Most recently, staff met with a representative of San Francisco’s ‘Vacant to Vibrant’ program to
discuss lessons learned and how the program might be adapted for Palo Alto’s circumstances. In
November, this topic was also discussed with the ad hoc Retail Committee. Following the November
meeting, staff developed some options and considerations for short-term activations that were
discussed with the Retail Committee in December.
*Revised estimated completion date is Q4
ED&T 12. Conduct stakeholder outreach and present recommendations to Council for a citywide
retail zoning strategy and receive direction for zoning ordinance implementation.
Project Manager: Jonathan Lait Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q2*Status: Completed
Project Description:
Prepare a report identifying recommendations for Council consideration and direction to support a
thriving retail environment through zoning code changes related to retail land use definitions,
permitted or conditionally permitted uses, the retail preservation ordinance and related
recommendations from the Streetsense Economic Development Strategy Report.
Following acceptance of a consultant-prepared findings and strategy report, prepare an ordinance
amending the City’s zoning code as directed by Council.
2024 Project Milestones:
Continue consultant and staff work that involves evaluating the City’s current land use zoning
regulations in commercial areas, conduct outreach to learn more about local business experiences
ATTACHMENT B
and best practices regionally, prepare associated analysis, and review and incorporate Streetsense
Economic Development Strategy Report recommendations. Present findings and obtain a
recommendation from the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC). Present findings and
strategy report to City Council and receive implementation direction. (Phase I: Q2)
Quarterly Update:
The Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) and Council Retail Ad Hoc made
recommendations that were transmitted to the City Council for review on November 18, 2024. The
City Council approved the recommendations and staff to work with the PTC on continued refinement
of the retail-like land use definition to establish a performance-based criteria that promotes
pedestrian activity in commercial areas; expand permitted uses in the ground floor (GF) and retail (R)
combining districts and standards to allow non-retail like uses in certain circumstances; and, to review
and recommend whether to amend retail preservation ordinance and evaluate changes to the
geographic extent or applicability of the City’s retail preservation ordinance. The Council also directed
staff to include a comprehensive update to the City’s zoning code as an objective for Council
consideration in 2025 work plan.
*Revised estimated completion date is now Q4.
ATTACHMENT B
Climate Change & Natural Environment: Protection & Adaptation
CC&NE 13. Deploy 65,000 residential Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) meters by end of
2024 (l)
Project Manager: Dave Yuan Lead Dept: UTL
Estimated Completion: Q4*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
The City of Palo Alto Utilities (CPAU) is upgrading the City’s utility metering system with electronic
meters to utilize grid technology called Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). AMI is becoming a
standard in the utilities industry, enabling interval utility usage data and time-of-use rates for homes
and businesses to the benefit of electric, natural gas, and water utility customers. CPAU will replace
old legacy electric meters with new advanced electric meters and retrofit existing water and gas
meters with AMI radios, starting with residential meters.
2024 Project Milestones:
Staff is working to deploy all 65,000 residential AMI meters by end of 2024, but this work may extend
into the first half of 2025.
Quarterly Update:
The AMI project is now more than 70% complete. There have been significant manufacturer shipping
delays for electric meters. However, if the City receives electric meters in January 2025 as scheduled,
we expect to be able to upgrade all electric meters to AMI by June 2025. Approximately 90% of all
water and gas meter installations are expected to be complete by the end of December 2024. The
remaining 10% of meters throughout the City are in difficult areas to access or otherwise challenging
to schedule shutdowns for replacement, the City will coordinate with these customers to complete
installation.
*Based on current progress, this objective is estimated to be completed in Q2 2025
CC&NE 14. Conduct community engagement and data collection and analysis to develop a Safe
Streets for All (SS4A) Safety Action Plan for Council approval in 2024
Project Manager: Sylvia Star-Lack Lead Dept: OOT
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
ATTACHMENT B
Pursuing the City's Comprehensive Plan goal for roadway safety, the Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Safety
Action Plan, will target eliminating traffic deaths and life-changing injuries on local streets.
Safety Action Plan development is critical to reaching Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP)
goals because improving safety for vulnerable road users is key to reducing vehicle miles traveled
(VMT) and increasing green travel.
2024 Project Milestones:
Conduct community engagement and data collection/analysis to develop SS4A Safety Action Plan with
a goal of reducing severe traffic injuries to zero and align City practices, projects, and policies with the
Safe System Approach.
Quarterly Update:
On April 29, 2024, the Council received an informational report on collision data analysis as part of
the ongoing development of the City’s Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Safety Action Plan. Staff began
community engagement efforts at the Earth Day Festival on April 21, and the project team tabled at
the May Fete Fair on May 4. These events provided an opportunity to engage with community
members before preparing the Draft Safety Action Plan. The community feedback gathered will help
prioritize projects and integrate the Safe System Approach into the City’s existing policies and
guidelines. A draft Safety Action Plan is currently being reviewed by staff and will be posted for public
review in early December 2024 in anticipation of final plan adoption in Spring 2025. The 2024
milestones for this objective have been completed.
CC&NE 15. Continue community engagement efforts to inform the update and receive Council
feedback on the 2025 Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) characteristics in
preparation for next steps including environmental review and adoption in 2025 (m)
Project Manager: Ozzy Arce Lead Dept: OOT
Estimated Completion: Q4*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
Update the existing 2012 Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) to evaluate progress,
reflect current community needs and desires, adjust recommendations for new policies, facilities, and
programs, and to address changes in bicycling and pedestrian planning and design. The City Council’s
adoption of the BPTP Update is anticipated for Fall 2025.
2024 Project Milestones:
Starting in summer 2024 and through Fall 2024 the project team will develop criteria that will lead to
identifying and prioritizing project, program, and policy recommendations and community
engagement in Fall 2024 to refine the recommendations. Staff will then bring draft recommendations
for Council consideration and review by the end of 2024.
Quarterly Update:
Phase 3 of 5 of the project, titled Recommended Bicycle Network, Projects, and Programs is currently
underway. The project team continues to make progress on developing the materials to present for
the project’s third phase, including the proposed draft bicycle network, the draft projects list and
scoring criteria framework, and the updated project Vision, Objectives, and Performance Measures.
Another series of engagement will begin in Fall 2024 and go through early 2025 to help refine the
draft recommendations for the Draft Plan Update. This will include meetings with the City’s
Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee (PABAC), local parents, the Planning and Transportation
Commission (PTC), the Parks & Recreation Commission (PRC), the Rail Committee, and a community
meeting. A City Council meeting is also anticipated for Spring 2025.
*Based on progress, this objective may be completed by Q1 2025
ATTACHMENT B
CC&NE 16. Complete initial pilot area of electric grid modernization (p)
Project Manager: Jorge Silva Lead Dept: UTL
Estimated Completion: Q4*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
The City’s planned project includes the modernization of the systematic grid and incorporates the
goals and key actions from the Grid Modernization Study to prepare for widespread electrification in
support of the S/CAP goal of an 80 percent carbon reduction by 2030. This project is coordinated with
the Fiber to the Home pilot. Staff has identified an initial pilot area bounded by Louis, Amarillo, 101,
and Embarcadero that includes about 1200 homes. Upon completion, there is a larger “Phase 1” area
of about 6,200 homes.
2024 Project Milestones:
By the end of 2024 staff intends to complete upgrades to the initial pilot area.
Quarterly Update:
As of November 2024, the engineering design work has been completed and project construction has
begun. The target completion date for the Pilot Project has been moved to March 30, 2025. Staff
continues to work with vendors and distributors of poles, transformers, and secondary wire to ensure
a continuous supply of materials, and to ensure the Pilot Project is completed in time and on budget.
To date, 60 of 75 poles (80%) have been replaced, 51 new transformers have been installed, and a
significant portion of the planned tree trimming work has been completed. Additionally, 554 (61%)
out of 908 residences in the Pilot Area now have sufficient electrical capacity to support
electrification. The Pilot Area project has been delayed and the new target completion date is March
30, 2025.
*Estimated completion date is now Q1 2025
CC&NE 17. Initiate development of a model to transition gas utility including community outreach
and policy discussions
Project Manager: Matt Zucca Lead Dept: UTL
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
A study is planned to assess the infrastructure needs and financial implications of managing the gas
utility as gas sales decline. The first phase involves using consultant resources to develop a gas system
model that simulates changing flows as electrification advances. This model will help identify which
sections of the gas system can be decommissioned first.
The current system is a grid network of pipes, with larger pipes delivering gas to remote or high-usage
areas. The model will evaluate the impact of removing large portions of the gas system, such as
residential areas that have transitioned to electrification, and assess the remaining network's ability
to meet demand during the transition.
The gas model will determine the minimum future gas grid needed to support reduced demand and
estimate the capital and operational costs of system retirement. These costs will be used to model
the rate impacts of declining gas sales and to develop policy options to mitigate the impact on
customers who have not yet electrified.
2024 Project Milestones:
ATTACHMENT B
Approve consultant contract to develop the gas model.
Quarterly Update:
A consultant has been approved and hired to develop the balanced gas system model, which is
expected to be completed by January 2025. After the model is received from the consultant, staff will
begin analyzing alternatives for scaling down the gas distribution system. Initial results of the staff
analyses are anticipated in Q3 of 2025.
CC&NE 18. Continue to improve the Advanced Heat Pump Water Heater Pilot Program for a full-
scale program (q)
Project Manager: Jonathan Abendschein Lead Dept: UTL
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Launch the Advanced Heat Pump Water Heater Pilot Program approved by Council and achieve a
significant increase in the installation rate year over year, converting to a full-scale program if
warranted.
2024 Project Milestones:
In 2024 staff will continue to improve the Advanced Heat Pump Water Heater Pilot program
operations and marketing with the goal of significantly increasing the installation rate by the end of
2024 if supported by demand.
Quarterly Update:
Staff was tasked with increasing participation in the Advanced Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH) Pilot
Program. In 2024 staff worked to improve the program and increase signups:
•Innovative outreach: targeted online and social media advertisements, community canvassing,
in-person events, and mailers in addition to traditional outreach. Mailers were the most
effective.
•A customer feedback outreach effort to improve customer satisfaction was completed in early
2024 and several program improvements were implemented. On average customer satisfaction
surveys consistently show 8.1/10 rating on "likeliness to recommend the program"
•Kept pricing low using Council-approved budget (April 2024) after State incentive expired
•Expanded outreach to income-qualified residents
•Launched emergency replacement program (Sep 2024)
•Establishing electrification expert program to help with complex installations
The installation rate has stayed at about five installations per week (about 250 per year), about 150-
200 per year through the full-service program and 50-100 through the rebate program. This is about
20% of the estimated annual turnover of HPWH in Palo Alto and 5-10 times the rate of installation at
other top HPWH programs in the State, adjusted for population. If the emergency replacement
program were to add another 100 installations per year, that could increase the percentage of
estimated annual turnover to about 30%. Counting new construction and major remodels, which
represent 100-200 new heat pump water heaters per year, the City may be reaching as much as 35%
or more of the estimated annual water heater turnover. However, it is far from the goal of 1,000 or
more per year (80% of estimated annual turnover).
CC&NE 19. Adopt a residential whole home electrification pilot program (r)
Project Manager: Jonathan Abendschein Lead Dept: UTL
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
ATTACHMENT B
To achieve the S/CAP goals staff will expand the City’s residential program services to include
electrification of space heating, cooking, and other appliances in addition to water heaters.
2024 Project Milestones:
Seek Council approval for a whole home electrification pilot program.
Quarterly Update:
The Whole Home Electrification program will roll out in two phases. The first phase, which will include
rebates, financing, and home electrification assessments, is being launched in December and January.
This will be followed by the launch of a full-service program option in mid-2025 to help homeowners
who prefer to use a trusted contractor that has been pre-screened by the City. Adequate funding for
the program was approved by the City Council in the FY 2025 Adopted Budget, and information about
the program and tentative rebate levels for the first phase was provided to Council at the November
12, 2024 Council meeting. Additional approvals will be needed for the second phase of the program.
CC&NE 20. Refine existing HVAC pilot program to encourage participation as a next step toward a
2025 Council approved commercial rooftop HVAC electrification advanced pilot program(s)
Project Manager: Jonathan Abendschein Lead Dept: UTL
Estimated Completion: Q3 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Continue to run the existing pilot program to replace a limited number of aging rooftop gas pack units
with heat pump HVAC systems (commercial rooftop packaged heating, ventilation, and air
conditioning (HVAC) units). Design an advanced pilot program focused on rooftop HVAC meant to
prove a scalable, high participation business model.
2024 Project Milestones:
Modify the existing rooftop HVAC pilot to enhance its ability to assist businesses and generate more
participation in the program.
Quarterly Update:
In September, staff launched an update to the rooftop packaged HVAC pilot with the goal of collecting
additional data to inform the design of an advanced pilot program. To achieve this, staff are offering
enhanced incentives to a limited group of 10 customers. In return, these customers are required to
gather and provide detailed cost and project information to the City. Businesses that prefer not to
collect this data can still participate in the program at the original incentive level.
Outreach efforts are ongoing through various channels to encourage participation. So far, seven
building owners have applied to join the program, with two permits issued and one project
successfully completed.
CC&NE 21. Develop and approve an Electric Vehicle Strategic Plan (t)
Project Manager: Jonathan Abendschein Lead Dept: UTL
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Develop a strategic plan for the provision of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to support EV
growth in Palo Alto. Define the City’s role and funding needs. Evaluate strategies for efficient
electrification and EV charging to reduce grid impacts. Coordinate with the Reliability and Resiliency
Strategic Plan on the electric grid impacts and benefits of EV charging and strategies to mitigate the
impacts and take advantage of opportunities.
2024 Project Milestones:
ATTACHMENT B
Complete preliminary EV Strategic Plan and review with Council Ad Hoc Climate Protection
Committee.
Quarterly Update:
In September, staff presented a preliminary outline for the EV Strategic Plan—now titled the E-
Mobility Strategic Plan—to the Climate Protection Ad Hoc Committee. In early November, staff also
shared preliminary results of the EV Charger Needs Assessment, a key component for finalizing the
Strategic Plan. A review of electric grid impacts, EV charging benefits, mitigation strategies, and
opportunities has been incorporated into a consultant contract approved by Council in September to
support implementation of the Reliability and Resiliency Strategic Plan (approved in April).
Using insights from these studies and feedback from the Ad Hoc Committee, staff aim to finalize the
E-Mobility Strategic Plan for policymaker and stakeholder review, with Council approval targeted for
the first half of 2025.
CC&NE 22. Develop an EV Replacement Program for the City Fleet
Project Manager: Danitra Bahlman Lead Dept: PW
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Convert Palo Alto municipal vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) when feasible and when the
replacement is operationally acceptable. Install EV Charging infrastructure to support increased EV
usage.
2024 Project Milestones:
Identify internal combustion engine vehicles that can be potentially replaced with EVs, with a goal of
adding nine EVs to the fleet in 2024 and six EV chargers in the City Hall Level C parking garage for fleet
vehicles. Develop an all-electric FY 2025 vehicle replacement program and track GHG emissions of
fleet vehicles by Department.
Quarterly Update:
Eight EVs have been added to the fleet in 2024. The City Hall Level C EV charger project was
completed in September. As part of the Capital Budget, Council approved an all-electric FY 2025
vehicle replacement program, except for Police pursuit vehicles. Staff has ordered an EV Police
pursuit vehicle as a pilot that is expected to be delivered by the end of December. Rincon Consultants
calculated vehicle GHG emissions by department as part of the 2022 GHG inventory.
CC&NE 23. Develop and initiate implementation of a Reliability and Resiliency Strategic Plan (u)
Project Manager: Jonathan Abendschein Lead Dept: UTL
Estimated Completion: Q2 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Develop a strategic plan for the integration of new technologies such as distributed energy resources
(solar, battery to grid, battery storage, and self-forming grids), load management and control
technologies, and advanced grid automation and protection into the City’s electric distribution system
with the goal of improving electric grid reliability and utility customer and neighborhood resiliency.
Coordinate with the EV Strategic Plan to identify the role of EV charging (including EV to grid and EV
to home) in electric grid reliability and resiliency.
2024 Project Milestones:
Staff will seek Council acceptance of the Reliability and Resiliency Strategic Plan and begin
implementation.
Quarterly Update:
ATTACHMENT B
Council accepted the Reliability and Resiliency Strategic Plan on April 15, 2024, and its
implementation is now underway. A contract for professional services to assist with various aspects of
implementation was approved by Council on September 23 and the study is underway. Staff is
working on a partnership to complete a distribution analysis focused on other parts of the plan. Staff
is also pursuing investigations of various microgrid designs at and in the vicinity of the airport, as well
as energy storage at substations.
CC&NE 24. Develop draft S/CAP funding study with Council input (v)
Project Manager: Jonathan Abendschein Lead Dept: UTL
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Complete an analysis of the funding needs for full scale implementation of the S/CAP Climate Action
goals and key actions, including identifying and estimating costs for additional emissions reductions to
achieve the 80x30 goal. Identify potential funding sources.
2024 Project Milestones:
Complete preliminary draft S/CAP Funding study and review with Council Ad Hoc Climate Protection
Committee.
Quarterly Update:
The S/CAP Funding Study continues. Completion of the Funding Study depends in part on completion
of other complementary studies, including an EV Charger Needs Assessment, Building Sector Study,
and the Funding Source Survey. All studies are being completed by the same group of consultants and
all are in progress in parallel. Preliminary results from all studies were generated in Q4 2024. Staff
discussed scenarios to model in the Funding Study with the Climate Protection Ad Hoc Committee in
October 2024. The consultant generated preliminary results based on those scenarios and staff
reviewed key insights and outputs with the Ad Hoc Committee and Working Group in December.
CC&NE 25. Evaluate and report out Palo Alto Link pilot performance and consider continuation
and/or expansion of future services
Project Manager: Nathan Baird Lead Dept: OOT
Estimated Completion: Q2*Status: Completed
Project Description:
Since its launch in March 2023, analyze the effectiveness of the Palo Alto Link pilot program and
consider providing on-demand transit services through at least June 2025. Finance Committee to
review options for program continuation and/or expansion of transit services beyond June 2025 in
October 2024.
2024 Project Milestones:
Council to evaluate the pilot program’s effectiveness and consider continuation and/or expansion,
with service considerations to extend to 7AM to 7PM in July 2024, and fare increase to $4 for all
riders by September 2024.
Quarterly Update:
With funding secured through June 2025, and standard fares adjusted by Council to $4 in December
2024 and service hours extended to 7AM to 7PM, staff will continue to pursue grant and partner
funding to potentially extend the service into future out years.
*Revised estimated completion date is Q4
ATTACHMENT B
CC&NE 26. Begin community engagement to consider parking policy updates that enhance
customer satisfaction, improve program sustainability, and align with S/CAP mobility goals
Project Manager: Nathan Baird Lead Dept: OOT
Estimated Completion: Q2*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description: Evaluate and provide options for updating parking policy objectives and
implementing operations improvements, beginning with the University Ave. parking district and
surrounding commercial areas.
2024 Project Milestones:
Initiate community engagement to gauge customer satisfaction and support future updates to
parking policies. Select a parking vendor to provide expanded permit types, time extension options,
and mobile payment.
Quarterly Update:
Community engagement has begun on this project. However, staff is planning on continuing
community engagement efforts through the spring to gauge customer satisfaction and support future
updates to parking policies. A soon to be selected parking vendor will help inform options for
expanded permit types, time extension options, and mobile payment. City staff will select a parking
permit vendor by January 2025, and work with the selected vendor to recommend options for
improvements as well as policy changes and implementation by June 2025.
*Estimated completion is Q1 2025.
CC&NE 27. Amend local building regulations to establish a "One Margin" energy efficiency
standard, to allow installation of natural gas plumbing while imposing more stringent energy
efficiency and all-electric readiness requirements to all new buildings
Project Manager: George Hoyt Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q2 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Amend the California Energy Code as codified in Title 16 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code Building
Regulations establishing a ‘One Margin’ standard, which would allow for installation of natural gas
plumbing while imposing more stringent energy efficiency and all-electric readiness requirements to
all new buildings, which incentivizes the additional efficiency and lower emissions of all electric
equipment using clean electricity.
2024 Project Milestones:
Engage a consultant to work with staff to review and implement the One Margin standard. Present
findings and an ordinance to the City Council for final action.
Quarterly Update:
The City Council adopted the One Margin code ordinance on June 3, 2024. As required by state law,
the ordinances have been sent to the California Energy Commission for review and approval. The
Energy Reach Code “One Margin” ordinance was reviewed and approved at the Commission’s
September 11, 2024 business meeting, and the ordinance became effective October 4, 2024. The
ordinance will remain in effect until it is replaced with the 2026-2028 Energy Code, with any local
amendments adopted for that code cycle (see CC&NE 28).
CC&NE 28. Initiate the 2026 California Building Standards Code update, including the California
Green Building Standards Code
Project Manager: George Hoyt Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
ATTACHMENT B
Project Description:
Adopt the California Building Standards Commission’s model technical building, mechanical,
plumbing, electrical, existing buildings, fire, energy, residential building, historic building, and green
building codes, with local amendments as appropriate, including standards to advance the City’s
carbon reduction and electrification initiatives, in compliance with federal regulations.
2024 Project Milestones:
Engage a consultant and begin initial research and analysis.
Quarterly Update:
Staff has completed the process of engaging professional services, identified project staffing, and
begun designing the 2025 process for City Reach Code adoption, which includes stakeholder
feedback. Additionally, staff is actively engaged in Statewide Energy and Green Building Code
adoption efforts. A Development Services Contract Services RFP was released in September 2024, and
the City Council approved the contract on December 16, 2024
CC&NE 29. Complete community engagement for the Airport’s Long-Range Facilities &
Sustainability Plan in accordance with Federal requirements and hold a study session with Council
on the draft plan
Project Manager: Andrew Swanson Lead Dept: PW
Estimated Completion: Q3 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Develop a long-range planning document that aligns the Airport with City goals and objectives
ensuring safe and sustainable operations at the Palo Alto Airport.
2024 Project Milestones:
Conduct meetings with the public to receive guidance to update the Airport’s Long-Range Facilities &
Sustainability Plan in accordance with Federal requirements. Conduct a Study Session with the City
Council to receive feedback on a draft plan.
Quarterly Update:
An online survey requesting input on planning alternatives was initiated in July and closed in August
2024. The project team conducted a fifth public outreach meeting on June 20 to receive further
comments on alternatives for future airport improvements. Staff held a study session with City
Council on September 16 and received valuable input from public speakers and the Council that will
be used to develop a planning alternative that does not include runway expansion or modifications
that could encourage larger aircraft. Additional community engagement is anticipated once a new
alternative is available. The next steps for this project are currently on hold while staff prioritizes
addressing noise and leaded fuel community concerns.
CC&NE 30. Council selection of a locally preferred alternatives for City Rail/Grade Separation
project at Churchill Avenue, Meadow Drive, and Charleston Rd
Project Manager: Ripon Bhatia Lead Dept: OOT
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
The project involves implementing rail grade separations along the Caltrain Corridor. Currently, the
City is in the process of developing conceptual plans for three crossings: Churchill Avenue, Meadow
Drive, and Charleston Road. Staff is actively engaged with the Rail Committee to evaluate alternatives
for recommendation to the City Council. The objective is to identify a locally preferred alternative and
advance the project into the Preliminary Engineering and Environmental Phase.
ATTACHMENT B
2024 Project Milestones:
Continue to advance and develop conceptual plans for various alternatives in consideration for each
of the three crossings, based on the guidance and direction provided by the Rail Committee. The
objective is to present recommendation to the City Council for consideration and approval of locally
preferred alternative(s) at these three crossings.
Quarterly Update:
On June 10, 2024, the City Council selected Seale Avenue as the bicycle and pedestrian crossing
location for the Partial Underpass Alternative at Churchill Avenue Crossing. This decision advances the
Partial Underpass with the Bicycle and Pedestrian crossing at Seale Avenue into the Preliminary
Engineering and Environmental Documentation Phase, with the closure alternative retained as a
backup option. Additionally, on June 18, the Council voted to advance the hybrid (including a mixed
wall/column approach) and underpass alternatives for Meadow Drive and Charleston Road into the
Preliminary Engineering and Environmental Documentation Phase. The funding Agreement with FRA
was fully executed in September 2024. Staff is currently working on executing a Cooperative
Agreement with Valley Transportation Authority and Caltrain for funding and implementing the
Preliminary Engineering and Environmental Phase of work. The Cooperative Agreement was approved
by the Caltrain Board on December 5, 2024 and the City Council approved this agreement on
December 9, 2024.
CC&NE 31. Advocate for the San Francisquito Creek Flood Protection capital project (Reach 2)
through Council’s JPA representation and any Council approvals involved (w)
Project Manager: Holly Boyd Lead Dept: PW
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Advance the San Francisquito Creek (SFC) Flood Protection capital project (Reach 2) through Council’s
JPA representation and any Council approvals involved.
2024 Project Milestones:
Support JPA’s efforts to make decisions through staff discussions and the City’s representation on the
JPA Board.
Quarterly Update:
In January 2024, the SFCJPA board authorized the agency to seek consulting support to analyze the
reach 2 alternatives that were described in the EIR while considering the hydraulic limitation of the
creek identified during the December 31, 2022, storm event. Staff participated in the review and
selection of the Request for Proposals process that led to a successful consultant award at the May
SFCJPA board meeting. In Q4, SFCJPA staff presented their consultant’s initial findings to their board
as well as to staff from their partner agencies. Staff continues to attend and participate in monthly
SFCJPA Reach 2 Planning Group meetings.
CC&NE 32. Complete design and right-of-way acquisition, obtain regulatory permits, finalize project
funding needs including potential Council advocacy with State legislators, and approve construction
contract for the Newell Road Bridge Replacement project (x)
Project Manager: Holly Boyd Lead Dept: PW
Estimated Completion: Q2*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
Complete design and right-of-way acquisition, obtain regulatory permits, and seek programming of
construction funding by Caltrans. Advocacy with State legislators on project funding needs. Award a
construction contract and manage the construction phase of the project to its completion.
ATTACHMENT B
2024 Project Milestones:
Complete design and right-of-way acquisition, obtain regulatory permits, and seek programming of
construction funding by Caltrans, through Council advocacy as needed, and award a construction
contract, subject to property owner, permitting agencies, and Caltrans approvals.
Quarterly Update:
Staff obtained all construction easements and permits from regulatory agencies and submitted for
right-of-way certification and authorization to proceed for construction to Caltrans in late May. A
notice of intent to award for a construction manager contract has been issued. Staff worked with
Caltrans to revise and resubmit right-of-way certification documents in July and September and
received right-of-way certification on October 11. Public Works staff met with Caltrans on November
1, 2024 to discuss the approvals for the project and learned that Advanced Construction has been
programmed for fiscal year 2025 and that additional funding requested by staff in the spring has been
approved.
The remaining steps to initiate the construction phase are submitting the Request for Authorization
(E-76), Advance Construction letter (which was submitted in November), and revised final project
plans. Staff received and submitted the revised final plans on December 3, 2024. Standard review
times of these documents are 6-8 weeks. Staff will continue to work closely with Caltrans on
approvals, including the possibility to go out to bid during the 6-8 week review time, in order to be
able to start construction in Summer 2025.
* Revised estimated completion is now Q2 2025.
CC&NE 33. Coordinate with Federal and regional partners on a path forward exploring the
development of a Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan (5)
Project Manager: Julie Weiss Lead Dept: PW
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Participate in regional efforts to advance shoreline protection from sea level rise through 1) SB272
(Laird) Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan development, 2) Valley Water/U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Shoreline II levee improvements*, and 3) Other regional and internal coordination efforts.
SB272: Sea Level Rise Planning and Adaptation (Laird) signed in 2023 requires a state and Bay Area
regional sea level rise adaptation plan and harmonized subregional plans. Plan requirements, and the
boundaries of subregions are anticipated from the Bay Conservation and Development Commission
by the end of 2024. Palo Alto has already completed its Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Assessment which
will be a subregional plan requirement. Staff will coordinate the development of the Sea Level Rise
Adaptation Plan to align with these efforts.
Shoreline II Levee Improvements: The United States Army Corps of Engineers conducted a feasibility
study to assess cost/benefit of funding levee improvements along Palo Alto’s shoreline and
determined that there is no federal interest in pursuing Palo Alto shoreline improvements at this
time, and that improvements would not be needed until approximately 2060. In January 2024, Valley
Water coordinated a Congressional letter (signed by Representative Eshoo and others) requesting re-
examination of cost benefit assessment citing concerns about the analysis and drafted a similar letter
from Valley Water leadership to USACE leadership.
Other Regional and In-house Coordination Efforts: Regional efforts include coordinating with Santa
ATTACHMENT B
Clara County and regional entities involved with sea level rise planning and internal efforts to advance
sea level rise planning tools and education.
2024 Project Milestones:
Track and participate in regional SB272 discussions about required sea level rise plan components and
subregional partners; continue to coordinate with Valley Water in pursuit of a reevaluation of
USACE’s federal interest to fund shoreline improvements; participate in priority region-wide sea level
rise planning efforts; and improve ESRI GIS maps for staff sea level rise and shallow groundwater
planning purposes.
Quarterly Update:
1) The Regional Shoreline Adaptation Plan (RSAP) Guidance was adopted by the Bay
Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) on December 5, 2024. This document
sets standards for sea level rise planning for all agencies. Palo Alto will need to comply with
these requirements on its own, or potentially in partnership with an emerging Santa Clara-
wide County Office of Sustainability effort that will be clarified in early 2025. Public Works
staff met with the Planning Department to discuss the new requirements and future
collaboration, and the City provided stakeholder feedback to BCDC about technical assistance
priorities that would be beneficial to public agencies in the coming years.
2) The USACE officially closed out the Shoreline II Feasibility Study. Valley Water finalized a
project factsheet and has nearly completed a document of frequently asked questions that
can be referenced for both general public questions, and for staff use to answer more
technical questions. After completion, City staff will work with the Chief Communication
Officer to update the City’s sea level rise webpage to include information about Shoreline II,
the new RSAP guidance and next steps.
3) Online maps showing future sea level rise and shallow groundwater conditions were finalized,
and staff will next provide internal outreach to expand staff consideration of sea level rise for
future projects. In addition, the Regional Water Quality Control Plant and Palo Alto Airport
are including sea level rise in each program’s Long-term Facility Plan.
4) Staff from interdepartmental teams continue to meet quarterly to discuss projects such as
the Horizontal Levee Pilot Project, Palo Alto Flood Basin tide gate, inclusions of sea level rise
in long range facility plans for the wastewater treatment plant and airport, regional
coordination for levee improvements, and other related sea level rise adaptation efforts.
*Please note that the RSAP and Shoreline II efforts below will be ongoing, decades-long tasks.
CC&NE 34. Prepare Stream/Creek Corridor Setback Ordinance (4)
Project Manager: Kelly Cha Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q3*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
Conduct research and present an ordinance that implements the City’s comprehensive plan polices
related to stream corridor setbacks for Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) review and
recommendation to the City Council.
2024 Project Milestones:
Engage a consultant to review the City’s comprehensive plan policies related to stream corridor
setbacks; prepare an existing conditions report and make recommendations on appropriate setbacks;
conduct public outreach and hold meetings before the PTC to receive a recommendation for City
Council consideration.
Quarterly Update:
ATTACHMENT B
The PTC held an initial public meeting on August 14, 2024. The PTC reviewed a draft ordinance on
October 9, 2024 and requested that the item be continued to a future PTC meeting following
additional community outreach to those who might be affected by the new regulations. A community
meeting is scheduled for February 2025.
*The revised estimated completion is now Q3 2025.
CC&NE 35. Prepare Bird Safe Glass & Wildlife Light Pollution Protections Ordinance (6)
Project Manager: Kelly Cha Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q2*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
Prepare an ordinance that updates the City’s zoning code to require new building design and lighting
standards with the aim to reduce bird strikes and nighttime light pollution for new or substantially
remodeled buildings/structures.
2024 Project Milestones:
Prepare a draft ordinance for review by the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) and
recommendation to the City Council. Review similar relevant ordinances from other jurisdictions and
consult local environmental advocates and/or groups when preparing the ordinance; hold public
meetings before the Architectural Review Board (ARB), PTC and City Council.
Quarterly Update:
The PTC met in August and provided feedback on a future ordinance. The PTC reviewed draft
ordinances on October 30, 2024, requested modifications to standards, and recommended approval
of both ordinances to City Council. The light pollution ordinance was scheduled for City Council
hearing on December 9, 2024 but could not be considered due to Council agenda management
conflicts; the new tentative date for Council consideration in February 3, 2025. The bird safe glass
ordinance is anticipated for Council consideration in March 2025 to allow additional time for analysis
of PTC recommendations.
*The revised estimated completion is now Q1 2025.
ATTACHMENT B
Housing for Social & Economic Balance
HS&EB 36. Approve project funding and a consultant contract to develop and identify housing
opportunity sites through the Downtown Housing Plan, including community outreach (dd)
Project Manager: Coleman Frick Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Prepare a focused housing plan for the University Avenue downtown area that identifies
development and design standards and public infrastructure necessary to accelerate housing
production in the study area.
2024 Project Milestones:
City Council selection of project management and coordination consultants; community outreach and
engagement; community assessment and initial policy development.
Quarterly Update:
The City Council approved project funding and the consultant contract on February 26, 2024.
Community engagement is underway. A community meeting occurred on October 10, 2024, and a
Citizens Advisory Committee was formed in Q4 2024, with the first meeting scheduled January 14,
2025. The needs assessment and existing conditions analysis is underway. A community survey was
launched on November 18, 2024 and publicized with community pop-up events in December.
HS&EB 37. Submit compliant housing element to the state department of Housing and Community
Development (HCD) (ee)
Project Manager: Jonathan Lait Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q3 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Prepare an updated housing element for Council adoption and review for certification by the
California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) that advances the City’s
housing policy interests, meets applicable state housing requirements, and demonstrates compliance
with the City’s regional housing needs assessment. The housing element will include an
implementation schedule to complete various policies over the eight-year housing cycle.
2024 Project Milestones:
Complete revisions to the previously adopted housing element to address HCD comments and public
input; schedule a joint Planning and Transportation Commission and City Council meeting, update the
ATTACHMENT B
housing element as necessary based on Council direction and make the housing element available for
an additional 7-day review before sending to HCD to initiate its 60-day review period.
Quarterly Update:
The state department of Housing and Community Development certified the City’s housing element
on August 20, 2024.
HS&EB 38. Approve final North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan (NVCAP) (ff)
Project Manager: Kelly Cha Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q2*Status: Completed
Project Description:
Prepare a coordinated area plan for North Ventura to facilitate development of a walkable, mixed-use
neighborhood with multifamily housing, commercial services, and well-defined connections to transit,
bicycle, and pedestrian facilities.
2024 Project Milestones:
Complete final plan revisions based on prior City Council direction, complete related environmental
review, finalize zoning implementation regulations and present the final draft to the Architectural
Review Board (ARB), Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC), and City Council for final action.
Quarterly Update:
The City Council adopted a resolution approving the NVCAP on August 5, 2024 and re-introduced a
first reading of the associated ordinance on September 23, 2024; with a second reading October 14,
2024.
*The revised estimated completion date is now Q3.
HS&EB 39. Receive Cal Poly San Luis Obispo student-led concept plan for San Antonio Corridor
Project Manager: Amy French Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q1 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Cal Poly’s undergraduate urban planning studio will present their student-led project highlighting land
use and transportation solutions for the Council’s consideration in advance of the City’s
comprehensive corridor study.
2024 Project Milestones:
Students will participate in study session presentation to the City Council.
Quarterly Update:
On March 18, 2024 the City Council received a study session presentation from Cal Poly San Luis
Obispo completing this task.
HS&EB 40. Approve consultant contract to initiate a Specific Plan for San Antonio Road Corridor
including project goals and outcomes (8)
Project Manager: Coleman Frick Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q4*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
Prepare a Request for Proposals and explore opportunities for developer funding to support the
preparation of a San Antonio Road corridor specific plan that incorporates anticipated housing
projections, programs and policies from the City’s housing element, identifies an appropriate mix of
land uses, park and recreation space needs, retail centers, transportation solutions that focus on ease
and safety of multi-modal travel and access to community resources and amenities.
ATTACHMENT B
2024 Project Milestones:
Prepare a Request for Proposals, present selected firm and contract to Council for approval.
Quarterly Update:
Staff is reviewed responses to the request for proposals (RFP) and conducted interviews, issued a
letter of intent to award to the preferred vendor, and is currently in contract negotiations. It is
anticipated a recommendation to the City Council in will occur in Q1, 2025.
*The revised estimated completion date is now Q1, 2025.
HS&EB 41. Initiate a review and make recommendations for a possible extension of the Housing
Focus area to other geographic locations along El Camino Real
Project Manager: Coleman Frick Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Consistent with prior City Council direction, staff will explore opportunities to incentivize housing
production at strategic locations along El Camino Real with zoning code amendments that increase
building height and floor area ratios and apply other objective standards, including transitional height
restrictions to address single family zoning districts adjacencies. The proposed standards will be an
alternative to the state density bonus.
2024 Project Milestones:
Engage an on-call consultant to work with staff to prepare necessary analysis, prepare reports,
conduct community outreach and perform environmental review for possible zoning code changes;
provide updates to the Housing Ad Hoc and engage the Architectural Review Board (ARB) and
Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) for design and policy guidance.
Quarterly Update:
Staff has selected an on-call professional services firm; initial work has begun on analyzing the existing
El Camino Real Focus area and potential areas of expansion. ARB and PTC study sessions were
scheduled in December 2024.
HS&EB 42. Evaluate sources and methods for raising significant funding to support affordable
housing
Project Manager: Jonathan Lait Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Support the City’s affordable housing goals as set forth in the adopted Housing Element and explore
funding mechanisms to help support those efforts.
2024 Project Milestones:
The Housing Ad Hoc will meet with staff to understand available sources and methods to support
affordable housing funding strategies and report back to Council.
Quarterly Update:
The Housing Ad Hoc met and discussed strategies in September and reported out to the City Council
on December 16, 2024 as part of its end of year reporting.
HS&EB 43. Conduct a policy review with criteria for Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA)
Project Manager: Jonathan Lait Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q3*Status: Completed
Project Description:
ATTACHMENT B
Release a NOFA consistent with the City’s below market rate funding policy for approximately six and
half million dollars ($6.5M) and share application submittal results with the City Council Housing Ad
Hoc for review and recommendation on fund disbursement, if any; transmit funding
recommendations to the City Council.
2024 Project Milestones:
Prepare and release the NOFA for 60 days; receive a recommendation from the Housing Ad Hoc and
seek City Council action.
Quarterly Update:
A NOFA was released in September and information was presented to the Housing Ad Hoc in
December. Staff will present a recommendation to the City Council on January 21, 2025 consistent
with feedback received from the City Council Housing Ad Hoc.
*The revised estimated completion date is Q4
HS&EB 44. Approve a consultant contract to assess housing development impact fees for the
conversion from a per unit to per square foot basis
Project Manager: Jonathan Lait Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Consistent with prior City Council direction, change the methodology for collecting housing-related
development impact fees from a per unit amount to a per square foot calculation.
2024 Project Milestones:
Engage a consultant to review the City’s development impact fees and characteristics of single family
and multi-family home building to establish a conversion rate that would enable the City to assess
development impact fees based on the unit’s size (square footage). Present this report to the City
Council’s Finance Committee and schedule for City Council review.
Quarterly Update:
On November 18, 2024, the City Council adopted an ordinance adjusting the development impact
fees and provided direction on future impact fee studies and analysis.
HS&EB 45. Refine implementation of City’s SB9 objective development and urban lot split standards
(ll)
Project Manager: Amy French Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q1 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Prepare a resolution that updates the City’s objective standards related to SB-9 development and lot
split standards. This project is distinguished from the ordinance task in HS&EB ii, which as an
ordinance the made code changes to reflect changes in state law whereas this task refines specific,
objective development standards. These changes will be reviewed by Council as a resolution as
opposed to an ordinance.
2024 Project Milestones:
Present resolution with updated objective standards for SB-9 development and lot splits.
Quarterly Update:
On February 12, 2024, the City Council reviewed and approved a resolution updating the objective
design standards.
ATTACHMENT B
HS&EB 46. Adopt an ordinance that implements Housing Element Program 3.4 related to the
housing incentive program
Project Manager: Coleman Frick Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q4*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
Based on a feasibility study, evaluate potential changes to the City’s existing housing incentive
program (HIP) and consider program expansion to multi-family, GM and ROLM zoning districts.
Implement Housing Element Program 3.3 regarding the affordable housing incentive program (AHIP)
and apply standards to identified housing opportunity sites; consider extending to faith based R1
zoned properties.
2024 Project Milestones:
Complete prototypical project and economic feasibility analysis related to the housing incentive
program and develop draft standards that would increase housing development potential beyond
existing zoning standards and serve as an alternative to the state density bonus. Present findings to
the Housing Ad Hoc, Architectural Review Board (ARB) and Planning and Transportation Commission
(PTC) and forward a recommendation and ordinance to the City Council for final action. (Q4)
Quarterly Update:
Most of the milestone work has been completed and additional review is expected by PTC in late
2024 and review by City Council expected in early 2025. This project is delayed by one quarter due to
staff resources being redirected in response to additional work needed for Housing Element
certification and the item being continued without being presented due to other agenda items.
*Based on estimated progress this objective will be delayed to Q1 2025
HS&EB 47. Amend the municipal fee schedule and prepare economic feasibility analysis that
implements Housing Element Program 3.1 related to fee waivers and adjustments
Project Manager: Coleman Frick Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Amend the City’s municipal fee schedule to waive City staff costs associated with the processing of a
one hundred percent (100%) affordable housing planning application, except for directly related
consultant supported costs.
2024 Project Milestones:
Amend the City’s municipal fee schedule to waive planning-related fees associated with the
processing of one hundred percent (100%) affordable housing applications. Engage a consultant to
begin an economic feasibility analysis that studies the impact of development impact fees to housing
production.
Quarterly Update:
On June 17, 2024, the City Council adopted the municipal fee schedule implementing this task.
HS&EB 48. Initiate a study implementing Housing Element Program 6.5 related to alternative
housing types
Project Manager: Coleman Frick Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
ATTACHMENT B
Prepare a study to achieve opportunities for innovative housing structures, such as micro-unit
housing and new shared and intergenerational housing models, to help meet the housing needs of
aging adults, students, and lower-income individuals citywide.
2024 Project Milestones:
Engage a consultant to initiate the study.
Quarterly Update:
Staff secured a consultant at the end of Q4 to begin the project.
HS&EB 49. Adopt an ordinance implementing various Housing Element Programs
Project Manager: Coleman Frick Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q4*Status: On Track
Project Description:
Prepare an ordinance that addresses the following housing element programs –
•Amend the zoning code to limit the number of hearings for multi-family housing projects
before the ARB to two hearings (Program 3.6);
•Amend the zoning code to require all sites listed in the housing element sites inventory, all
projects utilizing density bonuses, and all projects demolishing residential dwelling units to
meet the replacement housing requirements of state law contained in housing element law,
density bonus law, and the Housing Crisis Act of 2019 (Program 4.1);
•Amend the zoning code to remove the Conditional Use requirement for residential uses in
the Stanford Research Park, while taking into consideration City requirements related to
hazardous materials (Program 1.5);
•Amend the zoning code to be consistent with Government Code Sections 65650 et seq.,
which require that Supportive Housing meeting the standards in the statute be treated as a
by-right use where multifamily and mixed uses are permitted, including nonresidential
zones permitting multifamily uses. Amendments will also be made to allow transitional and
supportive housing, as defined in Government Code Section 65582, to be permitted as a
residential use in all zones (Program 6.5);
•Amend the zoning code to be consistent with Government Code sections 65660 et seq., which
require a Low Barrier Navigation center to be a use by-right in areas zoned for mixed-use and
nonresidential zones permitting multifamily uses, provided specific requirements of the law
are met (Program 6.5);
•Amend the City’s parking regulations for Homeless and Emergency Shelters and Navigation
Centers to comply with Government Code section 65583, subdivision (a)(4)(A). Amend the
zoning code to allow emergency shelters in the ROLM(E) zone to be approved ministerially,
without discretionary action, remove distance requirements, adjust length of stay
requirements, and ensure that the development standards for shelters are in compliance with
statutory requirements (Program 6.5);
•Amend the zoning code to ensure compliance with the Employee Housing Act (including
California Health and Safety Code sections 17021.5, 17021.6, and 17021.8) to state that
farmworker housing up to 36 beds or 12 units are to be permitted as an agricultural use and
therefore “by right” in the AC and OS zones and no discretionary permit would be required of
employee housing providing accommodation for six or fewer employees if discretionary
permits are not required of a family dwelling of the same type in the same zone (Program
6.5).
2024 Project Milestones:
Prepare ordinance and present to the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) for review and
recommendation to the City Council for final action.
ATTACHMENT B
Quarterly Update:
The PTC reviewed the proposed amendments and recommended Council approval on November 13,
2024. An ordinance is scheduled for City Council consideration on January 21, 2025.
*The objective is anticipated to be completed in Q1 2025.
HS&EB 50. Initiate analysis to amend the zoning code to implement Program 3.9 related to
commercial floor area
Project Manager: Coleman Frick Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Amend the City’s zoning code to reduce commercial floor area allowances or other commercial
incentives at strategic locations to shift the economic benefit of redevelopment toward home
building.
2024 Project Milestones:
Initiate analysis in 2024 and present findings to Council by Q4 2025. Amend the Municipal Code by Q4
2026.
Quarterly Update:
A consultant has been engaged to begin work on the project and analysis began in Q4 2024.
HS&EB 51. Partner with Santa Clara County Housing Authority to achieve 2024 milestones on
construction timeline for Palo Alto Homekey project to provide transitional housing and services for
unhoused residents (pp)
Project Manager: Melissa McDonough Lead Dept: CMO
Estimated Completion: Q4*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
Palo Alto Homekey construction is scheduled to take place throughout calendar year 2024 with
completion in early 2025. City staff attends regular project management meetings and owner-
architect-contractor (OAC) meetings and conducts site visits. The Housing Authority assists the City
with overall review of construction financing, budget and schedule, as well as construction
monitoring, including conducting site visits, informing the City whether work is being completed on
time and according to design intent, and reviewing the project schedule on a regular basis, providing
input to mitigate potential delays.
2024 Project Milestones:
Monitor the timely completion of milestones relating to concrete work, fabrication of modular units,
setting of modular units, backfill and grading, decking and stairs, completion of site-built items, and
switchgear installation and energization.
Quarterly Update:
As of early December, metal stairs and railings are 55% complete, concrete work is 90% complete,
and backfill and grading are 95% complete. The switchgear has been installed and is expected to be
energized by the end of the month. Overall, 75% of construction was complete as of November 30,
2024. Regarding modules, 32 out of 67 have arrived in California.
Estimated Completion is now Q2 2025
HS&EB 52. Conduct a gap analysis of housing and services for the unhoused in Palo Alto,
considering Council direction, City activities and work, and County activities and work
ATTACHMENT B
Project Manager: Melissa McDonough Lead Dept: CMO
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Produce a gap analysis looking at City of Palo Alto’s City Council direction as well as any and all work
being performed by the City or the County for the people of Palo Alto, in relation to housing and
services for the unhoused. This analysis will pull from existing documents including the Housing
Element, staff reports, the Santa Clara County Community Plan to End Homelessness, and where
necessary, communication with key stakeholders. The result of this analysis will identify any areas
that the City could feasibly pursue as new or improved work. The gap analysis will result in a report
and presentation to City Council, which:
1. Describes the a.) Housing direction from Council b.) Services for the unhoused direction from
Council,
2. Describes the work that is being done which meets that direction, identifying who owns
individual work products (City, County, or Federal),
3. Identifies any work that is not occurring or any work that is occurring but could be improved and
is within the purview of the City of Palo Alto,
4. Conducts a literature review to identify best practices to provide context and support for
recommendations, and
5. Provides recommendations on new/improved work the City could undertake and whether the
work would require additional staff or other financial resources.
2024 Project Milestones:
Conduct research resulting in a draft report, collect feedback resulting in a final report, create a draft
slide deck based on the final report, collect feedback resulting in a final slide deck, and present the
gap analysis findings to Council.
Quarterly Update:
The gap analysis was included as an information report on the December 9, 2024 Council Agenda.
HS&EB 53. Initiate research to understand Palo Alto unhoused population and explore feasibility of
expanding safe parking options on Geng Road
Project Manager: Melissa McDonough Lead Dept: CMO
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
In partnership with the Planning and Development Services Department, staff will explore expansion
of safe parking in Palo Alto, including increasing the footprint of safe parking at the Geng Road site,
working with the PTC to consider expanding safe parking to commercial lots, and exploring clearer
data on the population and condition of unhoused in Palo Alto.
2024 Project Milestones:
Staff will begin research on options for expanding Geng Road and exploring data on the population
and condition of unhoused in Palo Alto.
Quarterly Update:
On August 19, City Council approved a lease amendment to expand the premises of the lease at 2000
Geng Road and increase by 10 the number of safe parking spaces permitted. Additionally, Council
received a report “Understanding the Unhoused in Palo Alto as part of an information item on the
December 9, 2024 Council Agenda.
ATTACHMENT B
HS&EB 54. Council discussion of possible ordinance related to fair chance renter policy
Project Manager: Coleman Frick Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q3*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
Consistent with the City Council’s renter protection policy direction, staff will research the policy
implications of a fair chance renter policy from a legal, policy, and anticipated resource demand
perspective. This information will be presented to the City Council’s Housing Ad Hoc committee for
review and recommendation to the full Council.
2024 Project Milestones:
Staff will prepare a staff report with the requisite analysis and present the information to the City’s
Housing Ad Hoc Committee and will forward its recommendation to the City Council for formal
direction.
Quarterly Update:
Following feedback from the Housing Ad Hoc, the framework of a fair chance renter policy was
presented to the HRC on October 10, 2024. The HRC provided feedback and recommend proceeding
to Council. Staff is conducting additional analysis and anticipates presenting recommendations to the
City Council for its consideration in Q1 2025.
*Estimated completion date is Q1 2025.
HS&EB 55. Council discussion of possible anti-rent gouging policy
Project Manager: Coleman Frick Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q3*Status: On Track
Project Description:
Consistent with the City Council’s renter protection policy direction, staff will research the policy
implications of an anti-rent gouging policy from a legal, policy, and anticipated resource demand
perspective. This information will be presented to the City Council’s Housing Ad Hoc committee for
review and recommendation to the full Council.
2024 Project Milestones:
Staff l prepare a staff report with the requisite analysis and present the information to the City’s
Housing Ad Hoc Committee and will forward its recommendation to the City Council for formal
direction.
Quarterly Update:
Staff conducted significant research and presented the information to the City’s Housing Ad Hoc
Committee in December 2024. The Ad Hoc Committee discussed and directed staff to defer further
Ad-Hoc discussion to mid-2025 once Rental Registry Program data is available.
*Revised estimated completion date is Q4 2025
HS&EB 56. Finalize development plan to maintain affordability and improve conditions at Buena
Vista Mobile Park
Project Manager: Melissa McDonough Lead Dept: CMO
Estimated Completion: Q3*Status: On Hold
Project Description:
The project manager will work with the Planning and Development Services department on timely
completion of the entitlement process while encouraging the Housing Authority to incorporate
resident and Council feedback throughout the project’s design. Additionally, the project manager will
ATTACHMENT B
work with the County Office of Supportive Housing and the Housing Authority to revise the regulatory
agreement to improve clarity and align with the redeveloped Park.
2024 Project Milestones:
Complete, in partnership with the Housing Authority and Santa Clara County, the entitlement process
and amendment of the regulatory agreement for the Buena Vista Mobile Home Park.
Quarterly Update:
Staff completed the NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) environmental review for the project.
Additionally, staff is working with the Housing Authority to better understand its reasons for pausing
the redevelopment and to determine next steps.
HS&EB 57. Approve a consultant contract to initiate rental registry program implementation (cc)
Project Manager: Coleman Frick Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q3 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Council to review and approve a professional services contract for an online registry portal and staff
and consultant to prepare for project launch and phased implementation.
2024 Project Milestones:
Secure a consultant to oversee and manage the online registry portal. Staff to prepare and present
data collection forms to the PTC and City Council Housing Ad Hoc for review and feedback. Staff and
consultant to develop online guidance, resources and beta test portal. Staff to host community
outreach and training events for landlords and other stakeholders to expand program awareness,
requirements and facilitate data entry. This first phase of program implementation is expected to last
two years and applies to landlords or property managers with three or more rental units, excluding
J/ADUs, and regardless of current occupancy or availability on the market. (Q3)
Quarterly Update:
On May 13, 2024, the City Council approved a contract to initiate the rental registry program.
ATTACHMENT B
Community Health, Safety, Wellness & Belonging
CHSW&B 58. Complete reopening libraries to budgeted level (rr)
Project Manager: Gayathri Kanth Lead Dept: LIB
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Further open libraries to include weekend and additional open days in alignment with service levels
authorized as part of the annual budget, including events.
2024 Project Milestones:
As budgeted, Children’s Library will be open an additional 2 days bringing it to 6 open days a week. All
other libraries have been reopened to levels authored as part of the annual budget.
Quarterly Update:
Starting July 8, the Children’s Library has opened 6 days (Mon-Saturday) adding Mondays and Fridays
to its service days. The opening of the Children’s library will now be in alignment with budgeted
hours for all five branches.
CHSW&B 59. Approval of multi-year agreement for provisions of animal shelter services (ss)
Project Manager: Kristen O’Kane Lead Dept: CSD
Estimated Completion: Q1 Status: Completed
Project Description:
In collaboration with the City’s current service provider Pets in Need (PIN), work to review services,
infrastructure needs, and determine next steps such as contract negotiations and approvals. On
February 14, 2022, Council directed staff to proceed with negotiating a long-term contract with Pets
in Need for animal services.
2024 Project Milestones:
Finalize and approve multi-year agreement with Pets in Need
Quarterly Update:
On March 18, 2024, Council approved a five-year Professional Services Agreement with Pets in Need
to provide animal care services and shelter operations.
CHSW&B 60. Develop a workplan to enhance community special events with focus on inclusion (tt)
Project Manager: Kristen O’Kane Lead Dept: CSD
Estimated Completion: Q2 Status: Completed
Project Description:
ATTACHMENT B
Provide support to reinvigorate Community Services Department’s (CSD) current special events and
propose new events particularly along California Ave and University Ave to support economic
development in those areas. Provide more opportunities for residents to engage and gather,
promoting a healthy community.
2024 Project Milestones:
CSD has hired a special events coordinator to support this objective and will develop a workplan to
guide continuing and new events.
Quarterly Update:
Staff have prepared a draft workplan for FY25 to support regular and new events. New events include
a multi-cultural community event, participation in one Third Thursday event, and new events in
commercial areas (event themes to be developed through conversations with local merchants).
CHSW&B 61. Reach a tentative agreement with PAUSD on long-term use of the Cubberley property
(uu)
Project Manager: Kristen O’Kane Lead Dept: CSD
Estimated Completion: Q2*Status: Completed
Project Description:
Finalize an Agreement with PAUSD for the Cubberley site and define next steps regarding long-term
use of the Cubberley Community Center, specifically the City-owned portion.
2024 Project Milestones:
Ad Hocs of the City Council and PAUSD Board of Education, along with staff are negotiating terms for
a potential land transaction at Cubberley.
Quarterly Update:
The City and PAUSD continue to work on this agreement. A Council closed session was scheduled
August 5, 2024, the outcome of the meeting was unknown at the time this report was drafted.
Closed sessions were held on September 9th and 30th. On October 7th and 8th, respectively, the City
and PAUSD agreed on terms for the purchase of 7 acres of land at Cubberley, and a new 5-year lease
that will allow the city to continue leasing space beginning January 2025. The purchase is contingent
on voter approval of a bond measure in November 2026. The City will complete a master
development plan, building on the previous 2019 plan by March 2026, and the school district will
develop a plan for use of the proceeds from the sale to improve PAUSD schools.
*The updated estimated completion date is Q3.
CHSW&B 62. Evaluate Recreation Wellness Center Feasibility (vv)
Project Manager: Kristen O’Kane Lead Dept: CSD
Estimated Completion: Q2*Status: Completed
Project Description:
Council directed staff and the Parks and Recreation Commission to conduct public outreach on a new
gym, including location, siting, gym features, cost estimates, funding timeline, demand assessment
and prioritization of projects, and to investigate fundraising.
2024 Project Milestones:
Staff will bring to Council a recommendation on location of the proposed Recreation Wellness Center
and a Letter of Intent with the Friends of the Recreation Wellness Center before advancing this
initiative further.
Quarterly Update:
ATTACHMENT B
A Letter of Intent with the Friends of the Recreation Wellness Center was approved by Council on
December 2, 2024 to pursue fundraising of a wellness center at the Cubberley site. Additional work
will be coordinated with the larger Cubberley master planning effort.
*The updated estimated completion date is Q4.
CHSW&B 63. Evaluate HSRAP funding allocation as a percent (%) of the General Fund (11)
Project Manager: Kristen O’Kane Lead Dept: CSD
Estimated Completion: Q2 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Council referral to Finance Committee to evaluate and consider tying Human Services Resource
Allocation Process (HSRAP) funding to a percentage of the General Fund.
2024 Project Milestones:
Evaluate HSRAP and other human services grants and agreements funding levels with the Finance
Committee.
Quarterly Update:
On March 19, 2024, Finance Committee reviewed and discussed recommended funding levels of
HSRAP and other grants, including the Council referral to consider allocating 1% of the General Fund
for human services grants, however no recommendation was made. Finance Committee requested
that staff return with additional information to evaluate funding appropriateness and grant process.
The Finance Committee met on August 6, 2024 to review funding levels for HSRAP and other human
service grants and agreements and determined that a policy to tie a percentage of the general fund
toward the HSRAP program was not needed at this time. Instead, the Committee focused on
understanding how we define human services on a broader sense and the way in which we engage
and fund nonprofit relationships. The referral is closed.
CHSW&B 64. Facilitate a location for La Comida in North Palo Alto (12)
Project Manager: Kristen O’Kane Lead Dept: CMO
Estimated Completion: Q1 Status: Completed
Project Description:
La Comida is a nonprofit organization focused on senior nutrition; it provides hot lunch meals to
seniors in Palo Alto. La Comida had previously provided services at the Avenidas Senior Center on
Bryant St, but after building renovations, the dining space was significantly reduced making
operations infeasible.
2024 Project Milestones:
Council would like to facilitate a permanent location in North Palo Alto for ongoing senior lunch
services.
Quarterly Update:
On March 11, 2024, Council directed staff to convert 445 Bryant St into a community center and to
include space for La Comida to operate their senior nutrition program during weekday hours.
Significant improvements to the facility are required before occupancy.
Staff continues to work with La Comida to finalize lease terms and facility improvements, work may
take between 9 months to 2 years depending on facility upgrades.
ATTACHMENT B
CHSW&B 65. Increase support and funding for youth mental health (13)
Project Manager: Kristen O’Kane Lead Dept: CSD
Estimated Completion: Q2 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Staff included $100,000 in CSD’s FY 2024 Proposed Budget to support youth mental health, however;
the City Council chose not to include funding until a plan is in place and referred this to the FY 2024
midyear budget process.
2024 Project Milestones:
Per Council direction, staff requested additional funding during the FY 2024 Midyear process to plan a
youth mental health event with community partners, and to provide free transportation using the
existing PA Link ride service for youth attending programs that support mental health. The Mayor’s
Youth Mental Health Task Force may make recommendations for additional funding for FY 2025.
Quarterly Update:
The FY 2025 budget includes an ongoing allocation of $100,000 to support youth mental health
programs and initiatives. In FY2025, funding will focus on two events for teens and their
parents/caregivers, upgrades, and additional programming at the teen center, and other needs to be
determined by youth and teens. Community Services is partnering with Palo Alto University to
provide mental health training to hourly staff and middle school athletic coaches; trainings/webinars
for teens and parents; positive psychology programming at the teen center, and other youth mental
health support.
CHSW&B 66. Complete Trusted Response Urgent Support Team (TRUST) Augmentation pilot and
evaluate the effort
Project Manager: Melissa McDonough Lead Dept: CMO
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Complete the TRUST (Trusted Response Urgent Support Team, an alternative mental health response
program) augmentation pilot, including providing case management, mental health first aid trainings,
and community outreach activities through the month of September 2024. Conduct an in-progress
evaluation and adjust pilot in response to what is learned. Conduct a final evaluation to determine
whether pilot goals were met.
2024 Project Milestones:
Complete the TRUST (Trusted Response Urgent Support Team, an alternative mental health response
program) augmentation pilot, including providing case management, mental health first aid trainings,
and community outreach activities through the month of September 2024. Conduct an in-progress
evaluation and adjust pilot in response to what is learned. Conduct a final evaluation to determine
whether pilot goals were met.
Quarterly Update:
Most pilot activities concluded in August, including case management, mental health first aid training,
and community outreach efforts. However, one component—the ad campaign to raise awareness and
educate the public about using "988"—will continue for another year. Staff completed the grant
closeout process and reporting and is submitting an informational report on the pilot program to
Council in January.
CHSW&B 67. Support visible police presence by ensuring stable staffing (recruiting and retention)
through hiring ahead program (ww)
ATTACHMENT B
Project Manager: Andrew Binder Lead Dept: PD
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: On Track
Project Description:
Maintain a pipeline of recruits for police officer staffing up to an additional five officers via a hire-
ahead program.
2024 Project Milestones:
Pending existing vacancies being filled.
Quarterly Update:
As of September 2024, the Police Department has one Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Police Officer
position that is vacant. Once the vacancy is filled, the next priority will be on the hire-ahead program
for the recruitment of an additional five officers. Currently, there are four officers in the field training
program, seven recruits in the police academy, and one recruit in pre-academy training. Recruitment
challenges across the profession are continuing; once existing vacancies are filled, the hire ahead
program will begin. The hire-ahead positions were not resourced, only authorized. No impact to
salary savings.
CHSW&B 68. Initiate upgrade of Police Department field based video hardware
Project Manager: Nicole Frazier Lead Dept: PD
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Request for Proposal (RFP) to replace the existing mobile video (MAV), body-worn camera (BWC), and
interview room (IR) systems
2024 Project Milestones:
Collaborate with vendor to draft contract for solution.
Quarterly Update:
Council approval to engage in contract with LensLock was received on June 18, 2024. Project kickoff
started in July with full deployment expected to be done by the end of the year in coordination with
the phased move into the new public safety building.
CHSW&B 69. Approve vendor selection for 911 dispatch system (CAD provider) (yy)
Project Manager: Nicole Frazier Lead Dept: PD
Estimated Completion: Q3*Status: Completed
Project Description:
The Police Department is working with its consortium partners (Mountain View and Los Altos) to
identify a new CAD system to replace the legacy system version. Staff will return to Council with a
recommendation for purchasing a new CAD system.
2024 Project Milestones:
Collaborate with consortium partners to narrow down proposals and conduct site visits for finalists
with a decision to be made by April.
Quarterly Update:
Council consent for a new CAD system, vendor and contract was obtained by Los Altos, Mountain
View, and Palo Alto on November 12,2024. The contract has been routed to vendor and cities for
signature. Upon finalizing contract, a project schedule will be provided by vendor.
*The revised estimated completion date is Q4
ATTACHMENT B
CHSW&B 70. Approve updated Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (aaa)
Project Manager: Ken Dueker Lead Dept: OES
Estimated Completion: Q3 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Office of Emergency Services (OES) will be coordinating with the County on updates to emergency
plans, including the Palo Alto Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP).
2024 Project Milestones:
The Santa Clara County timeline should facilitate completion in 2024.
Quarterly Update:
The Santa Clara County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP), Volume I and the
associated Jurisdictional Annexes, Volume II, has been approved by the State and by FEMA. Council
adopted Volume I and The Palo Alto Annex to Volume II on October 7, 2024.
CHSW&B 71. Update Foothills Fire Management Plan & Community Wildfire Protection Plan (bbb)
Project Manager: Ken Dueker Lead Dept: OES
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: On Track
Project Description:
Staff is working on various efforts related to improving the City’s planning in collaboration with Santa
Clara County and other allied agencies and entities. Efforts include not only emergency planning, but
also early warning technology, and updating operational and procedural elements within the City
organization to mitigate the risks associated with a fire in the foothills.
NOTE: The Foothills Fire Management Plan/Community Wildfire Protection Plan (FFMP/CWPP) is a
multi-year plan with OES, Fire Department, Public Works, Utilities, Community Services Department
coordinated via the Foothills Fire Management Team (aka Foothills Wildfire Coordination Team).
2024 Project Milestones:
Staff will release a 2024 update to the FFMP/CWPP by Q3.
Staff is also pursuing a service agreement with the Santa Clara County Firesafe Council to perform the
schedule of required treatments each year in conjunction with some support from the City.
The Fire Department and OES are in the process of evaluating certain remote fire detection
equipment in cooperation with the Fire Safe Council and local partner agencies.
Quarterly Update:
The update to the FFMP/CWPP is underway. Some of the fuel reduction efforts include:
Staff submitted a federal hazard mitigation grant through the State and to FEMA in September 2023
for Eucalyptus removal. While we have not received notification of the status of this grant, it is
unlikely that we will receive it. Staff is attempting to gain clarity on the results.
The City is contracting with the SCC Fire Safe Council to perform fuels reduction along Page Mill Road
and Arastradero Road in 2024 and pursuing a multi-year contract for broader fuels reduction work
over a 3-5 year time horizon.
Additionally, the Public Works department completed fuels reduction work prescribed for Los Trancos
Road in May 2024 and the Community Services Department is performing the annual treatments in
Arastradero and Foothills Nature Preserves.
ATTACHMENT B
Also, Palo Alto Fire Department has completed their annual wildfire urban interface (WUI) residential
inspections. Twelve N5 Sensors were installed in the Foothills to detect the earliest stages of wildland
fire, as well as track fire movement, smoke and monitor hazardous air quality. PAFD and OES are
collaborating with the Santa Clara County FireSafe Council, Woodside Fire Protection District,
Stanford University and the Department of Homeland Security to install a total of 50 sensors in the
wildland urban interface areas in Palo Alto, Stanford and Woodside Fire District. Public
communications are planned, including a dedicated website to share the value of these sensors to
public safety.
CHSW&B 72. Complete construction of the new Public Safety Building including department move-
in (ccc)
Project Manager: Holly Boyd Lead Dept: PW
Estimated Completion: Q3*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
Complete construction of the new Public Safety Building followed by furniture and equipment
installation, communication testing and set-up.
2024 Project Milestones:
Complete construction of the project and move public safety departments into the fully operational
building.
Quarterly Update:
Staff is working on a phased temporary occupancy for the Public Safety Building. Work in Q4 included
addressing ADA compliance and other code compliance issues. In November, the elevators passed the
state inspection. Several key inspections are scheduled to take place in December including generator
source testing and final fire alarm testing. Additionally, Sherman Avenue was opened to vehicular
traffic. Restoration of the courthouse parking lot will be completed in early January. Once temporary
occupancy is obtained, a phased move-in of the public safety departments will begin.
*Revised estimated completion is now Q1 2025.
CC&NE 73. Council award of construction contract for Fire Station No. 4 Replacement (ddd)
Project Manager: Holly Boyd Lead Dept: PW
Estimated Completion: Q4* Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
Complete design and award a construction contract to re-build Fire Station No. 4.
2024 Project Milestones:
Complete design, construct temporary facility, and award a construction contract in the Fall 2024.
Quarterly Update:
Staff completed the Fire Station #4 design and submitted for building permit review. Staff is
addressing the second round of building review comments and ensuring the design is able to
accommodate needs for electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Staff anticipates issuing the
construction IFB in Q1 2025.
Staff is planning to bring a construction contract for the temporary station to Council for approval in
January and start construction soon after. Construction of the temporary station is anticipated to be
completed in Q2 2025.
* Based on the estimated progress, completion date may be Q1 2025.
ATTACHMENT B
CC&NE 74. Enhance Caltrain Safety and security
Project Manager: Ripon Bhatia Lead Dept: OOT
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: On Track
Project Description:
Explore opportunities to improve the safety and security along the Caltrain corridor
Augment Caltrain security fencing efforts by installing wire mesh on fencing adjacent to residential
side of the tracks.
2024 Project Milestones:
Coordinate with Caltrain to identify segments and develop a plan to implement security fencing.
Quarterly Update:
Caltrain staff developed the fence replacement project plans and specifications. The project was
competitively bid for construction in October. Caltrain is currently working to award the project. The
construction is expected to begin in early 2025. The project scope includes replacing 3000 LF of
existing fence with new 9 ft high fence w/winglets. It also includes an alternative bid of approx.
1000LF of additional fencing. In addition, staff is working with Caltrain staff on seeking additional
technologies to improve safety and security along the Caltrain’s rail corridor.
CHSW&B 75. Approve consulting contract to initiate work, including stakeholder engagement,
related to the Seismic and Resiliency Ordinance (eee)
Project Manager: George Hoyt Lead Dept: PDS
Estimated Completion: Q4*Status: Behind Schedule
Project Description:
Comprehensively update the City’s seismic rehabilitation ordinance with mandatory and voluntary
measures to seismically strengthen vulnerable buildings.
2024 Project Milestones:
Release a request for proposals and present an award a contract for engineering and professional
consulting services to the City Council for action. Upon acceptance, initiate the project and public
engagement strategies as detailed in the scope of work. (Q4)
Quarterly Update:
A Request for Proposals closed on June 27, 2024; two firms replied. Staff conducted interviews in
October and is currently in contract negotiations. The contract is anticipated to reviewed and
approved by City Council in Q1, 2025.
*The revised estimated completion date is now Q1, 2025.
CC&NE 76. Initiate work to conduct a Quiet Zone study at Churchill Ave, Meadow Drive, and
Charleston Rd and begin initial analysis and regional stakeholder outreach
Project Manager: Ripon Bhatia Lead Dept: OOT
Estimated Completion: Q1 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Conduct a quiet zone study analysis for implementation of Quiet Zone(s) at Churchill Avenue,
Meadow Drive, and Charleston Road
2024 Project Milestones:
ATTACHMENT B
Procure the professional services of a consultant to conduct the study. Perform data collection and
conduct initial analysis. Seek input from California Public Utilities Commission, Federal Railroad
Administration, Caltrain and other entities for development of conceptual plan.
Quarterly Update:
Staff has procured the services of the consultant to perform this study. The consultant has prepared
the initial finding report based on existing conditions and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
requirements. The initial findings of the report were reviewed by the Rail Committee at their August
meeting. Staff is now planning to develop conceptual plans. A diagnostic meeting with Caltrain, FRA
and CPUC staff was held on October 22, 2024. Staff will conduct additional outreach and seek rail
committee approval of the conceptual plans before seeking the City Council approval in the fall of
2025.
CHSW&B 77. Implement strategies for promoting unleaded fuel and phasing out of leaded fuel (ggg)
Project Manager: Andy Swanson Lead Dept: PW
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Complete upgrades at Airport facilities to provide for the sale of unleaded fuel, bring unleaded fuel to
the Airport, and work with users to promote use of the fuel.
2024 Project Milestones:
Complete infrastructure upgrades and provide unleaded fuel at the Airport. Develop and begin
implementing a multi-phase plan to phase out the use of leaded fuel.
Quarterly Update:
The Airport completed infrastructure upgrades in December 2023, and the 94 octane unleaded fuel
became available for purchase in January 2024. The Airport developed a multi-phase plan to reduce
the use of leaded fuels in the near term and to cease sales of leaded fuels no later than January 1,
2031. The plan was shared with Council as part of the September 16 study session, and staff is now
working on its implementation. On November 12, 2024, the Airport received a 100 octane unleaded
fuel (Swift 100R). There is a limited number of aircraft that can currently use the fuel, but the list is
expected to expand in the first quarter of 2025.
CHSW&B 78. Continue engagement with San Francisco Airport on SFO's Ground Based
Augmentation System (GBAS) project and other potential opportunities to decrease SFO noise
impacts on Palo Alto (iii)
Project Manager: Andy Swanson Lead Dept: PW
Estimated Completion: Q4 Status: Completed
Project Description:
Complete consultant review of SFO Ground Based Augmentation System (GBAS) proposal and
consider submitting a comment letter, while tracking other issues that may arise.
2024 Project Milestones:
Continue working on SFO noise issues as needed.
Quarterly Update:
City staff and Mayor Stone continue to engage with SFO Airport Director Ivar Satero and other SFO
staff on the GBAS project and other possibilities for decreasing the impacts of aircraft noise over Palo
Alto. A meeting was conducted in October 2024, and staff are continuing to work with SFO on GBAS
and over energy issues. SFO notified the City that the FAA is willing to look into the over energy issues
of southern arrivals.