HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-03-11 Planning & Transportation Commission Agenda PacketPLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION and
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD
Special Joint Meeting
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Council Chambers & Hybrid
6:00 PM
Planning and Transportation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the
option to attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safety
while still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to
participate from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe and
participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if
attending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live on
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen Media
Center https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas and
minutes are available at http://bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC.
VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/91641559499)
Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499 Phone: 1(669)900-6833
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an
amount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes
after the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance to
Planning.Commission@PaloAlto.gov and/or arb@paloalto.gov and will be provided to the
Commission and available for inspection on the City’s website three days before the meeting.
Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in your subject line.
Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified as
present at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up to ten
(10) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non-speaking members agree not
to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes for all
combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak for Study Sessions and
Action Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers.
PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only
by email to Planning.Commission@PaloAlto.gov and/or arb@paloalto.gov at least 24 hours
prior to the meeting. Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the
specified item. To uphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical
electronic storage devices are not accepted.
Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks,
posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do not
create a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated when
displaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view or passage
of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting.
CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALL
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
The Chair or Commission majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker.
CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS
1.Director's Report, Meeting Schedule, and Assignments
ACTION ITEMS
Public Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Fifteen (15) minutes, plus three (3) minutes rebuttal. All others:
Three (3) minutes per speaker.
2.Cubberley Community Center Conceptual Master Plan [Master Plan; 4000 Middlefield
Road]: Recommendation to City Council on Adoption of the Cubberley Conceptual
Master Plan. CEQA Status: A Draft Initial Study Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND)
Report Was Circulated for a 30-day Public Review Beginning on March 2, 2026, and
Ending on April 1, 2026.
COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND
AGENDAS
Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
ADJOURNMENT
OTHER INFORMATION
The materials below are provided for informational purposes, not for action or discussion during this meeting’s agenda. Written
public comments may be submitted in advance and will be provided to the Commission and availible for public inspection on the
City’s website three days before the meeting.
A.Public Comment
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email,
teleconference, or by phone.
1.Written public comments may be submitted by email to
Planning.Commission@PaloAlto.gov and/or arb@paloalto.gov.
2.Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference
meeting. To address the Commission, click on the link below to access a Zoom-based
meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
◦You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in- browser. If using
your browser, make sure you are using a current, up-to-date browser: Chrome 30,
Firefox 27, Microsoft Edge 12, Safari 7. Certain functionality may be disabled in
older browsers including Internet Explorer.
◦You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you
identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you
that it is your turn to speak.
◦When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will
activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they
are called to speak.
◦When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be
shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
3.Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, download the Zoom application
onto your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID
below. Please follow the instructions above.
4.Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When
you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to
speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the
Commission. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit
your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499 Phone:1-669-900-6833
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public
programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with
disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary
aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at
(650) 329-2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@PaloAlto.gov. Requests for assistance or
accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or
service.
Item No. 1. Page 1 of 2
Planning & Transportation Commission
Staff Report
From: Planning and Development Services Director
Lead Department: Planning and Development Services
Meeting Date: March 11, 2026
Report #: 2603-6050
TITLE
Director's Report, Meeting Schedule, and Assignments
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) review and
comment as appropriate.
BACKGROUND
This document includes the following items:
Upcoming PTC Agenda Items
PTC Meeting Schedule
PTC Representative to City Council (Rotational Assignments)
Commissioners are encouraged to contact Samuel Tavera (Samuel.Tavera@PaloAlto.gov)
to notify staff of any planned absences one month in advance, if possible, to ensure the
availability of a PTC quorum.
PTC Representative to City Council is a rotational assignment where the designated
commissioner represents the PTC’s affirmative and dissenting perspectives to Council
for quasijudicial and legislative matters. Representatives are encouraged to review the City
Council agendas (https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/City-Hall/City-Council/Council-Agendas-
Minutes) for the months of their respective assignments to verify if attendance is needed or
contact staff.
Prior PTC meetings are available online at https://midpenmedia.org/category/government/city-
of-palo-alto/boards-and-commissions/planning-and-transportation-commission.
UPCOMING PTC ITEMS
March 25, 2026
Item 1
Item 1 Staff Report
Packet Pg. 4
Item No. 1. Page 2 of 2
San Antonio Road Area Plan Study Session
Retail Ordinance
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: 2026 PTC Schedule & Assignments
AUTHOR/TITLE:
Jennifer Armer, Assistant Director
Item 1
Item 1 Staff Report
Packet Pg. 5
Planning & Transportation Commission
2026 Meeting Schedule
1
0
5
2
2
2026 Schedule
Meeting Dates Time Location Status Planned Absences
1/14/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
1/28/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled
2/11/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular James
2/25/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular Chang
3/11/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Special James, Ji
3/25/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
4/8/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
4/29/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
5/13/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
5/27/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
6/10/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
6/24/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
7/8/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
7/29/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular Hechtman
8/12/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
8/26/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
9/9/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
9/30/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
10/14/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
10/28/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
11/11/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled
11/18/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Special
11/25/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled
12/9/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
12/30/2026 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled
2026 Assignments - Council Representation (primary/backup)
January February March April May June
Bryna Chang Allen Akin Bart Hechtman Kevin Ji Todd James Forest Peterson
Todd James Forest Peterson Cari Templeton Bryna Chang Allen Akin Bart Hechtman
July August September October November December
Council Cari Templeton Bryna Chang Allen Akin Bart Hechtman Kevin Ji
Summer Break Kevin Ji Todd James Forest Peterson Cari Templeton Bryna Chang
Item 1
Attachment A - 2026 PTC
Schedule & Assignments
Packet Pg. 6
Item No. 2. Page 1 of 8
Planning & Transportation Commission and
Architectural Review Board
Staff Report
From: Planning and Development Services Director
Lead Department: Community Services
Meeting Date: March 11, 2026
Report #: 2601-5862
TITLE
Cubberley Community Center Conceptual Master Plan [Master Plan; 4000 Middlefield Road]:
Recommendation to City Council on Adoption of the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan. CEQA
Status: A Draft Initial Study Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) Report Was Circulated for a
30-day Public Review Beginning on March 2, 2026, and Ending on April 1, 2026.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) and Architectural
Review Board (ARB):
1. Consider the Draft Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) for the
Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan (Master Plan); and
2. Recommend that Council adopt the Master Plan.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City of Palo Alto (City) is advancing a long-term vision to redevelop a 15-acre portion of the
Cubberley campus, including seven acres proposed to be purchased from the Palo Alto Unified
School District (PAUSD) for $65.5M. The purchase and improvements are dependent on the City
identifying funding, such as a successful ballot measure for a parcel or sales tax, development
impact fees, private/public partnerships, and philanthropy. The Community Services
Department developed the proposed Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan (Master Plan) in
Attachment B through a robust community engagement effort, building upon the 2019
Cubberley Concept Plan.
The Master Plan, along with detailed appendices (Attachment B), proposes a three-phased
approach combining new construction and renovation, as detailed further in this report. Until
additional funding is secured for future phases, the phased approach is necessary to manage
costs and sequence renovation, demolition, and new construction while limiting disruption to
existing programs and services at Cubberley. While the plan provides a distinct layout of the
Item 2
Item 2 Staff Report
Packet Pg. 7
Item No. 2. Page 2 of 8
site with specific features, it represents a concept that should be considered adaptable and
dynamic as the project phases continue to progress.
BACKGROUND
1 and July 17, 2025,2 respectively, numerous
additional milestones have been reached, including the final Community meeting, a Parks and
Recreation Commission meeting, and three City Council meetings, which have culminated in
the completion of the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan.
Master Plan Community Meetings
1 Staff Presentation, July 9, 2025;
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/viewer/preview?id=0&type=8&uid=49fc32cf-caa1-4dd9-97f9-5d5d02150256
2 Staff Presentation, July 17, 2025;
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/viewer/preview?id=0&type=8&uid=2a9a7988-768f-465b-bcf9-68166ff9af6f
Item 2
Item 2 Staff Report
Packet Pg. 8
Item No. 2. Page 3 of 8
community engagement process in 2019, participants were asked to review and confirm
desired programming, shared spaces, greenspaces, and adjacencies for the future Community
Center. Community members affirmed and expanded the Council vision through six Core
Intentions (Social, Organizational, Physical, Cultural, Educational, and Economic), emphasizing
flexible, multipurpose spaces; inclusive gathering hubs; universal accessibility; integration of
green space and sustainability; and long-term affordability—reflecting overarching priorities of
flexibility, inclusivity, sustainability, and enduring community benefit. Participants also
reviewed and refined desired programs and adjacencies, identifying top indoor priorities as
theater/performance space, dance, and arts studios/classes, and top outdoor priorities as open
greenspace, playgrounds, amphitheater, and pool/water areas, largely consistent with the 2019
Master Plan’s emphasis on adult education, performance space, greenspace, makerspaces, and
senior/multigenerational programming.
“A
vibrant, beloved, and adaptable destination that promotes learning, connections, joy, and
wellbeing where all cultures and generations belong”—reflecting feedback from the March 19
community meeting. Staff then introduced three 3-D concept plans (The Promenade, The Grid,
and The Plaza), each with A, B, and C variations exploring different approaches to building
placement, renovation versus new construction, green space, circulation, and parking. The
possibility of preserving and renovating certain existing buildings was introduced, as well as the
need to phase construction. A phased approach to construction helps to ensure programs and
services continue while the campus evolves over time and allows for the acquisition of
additional funding sources beyond the ballot-supported tax or bond, such as public-private
partnerships, grants, and impact fees.
Item 2
Item 2 Staff Report
Packet Pg. 9
Item No. 2. Page 4 of 8
placement within the proposed buildings and noted their appreciation for the phased
approach, which allows for continuity of programs during construction. The discussion was
lively and engaging, with particular interest around the café, the outdoor amphitheater, parking
access, and pedestrian and bicycle circulation pathways. The feedback gathered will directly
inform refinement of the preferred concept plan.
ANALYSIS
5 Building on that foundation, the current process has moved forward with a series
of three community meetings designed to refine and update the long-term vision for the site.
To date, all three community meetings have been held as part of the Cubberley Community
Center co-design process, as detailed above, and culminated in a guiding vision for potential
long-term development of the Cubberley site with the completion of the Cubberley Conceptual
Master Plan.
Conceptual Master Plan Concept Development
Phase I: Phase I of the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan would focus on constructing a new
Recreation and Wellness Center, a new Education Building, and renovation of other existing
5 Cubberley Concept Plan 2019: https://www.pausd.org/about-us/committees-task-forces/archived-
committees/cubberley-master-plan
Item 2
Item 2 Staff Report
Packet Pg. 10
Item No. 2. Page 5 of 8
buildings to ensure the full campus continues to be operational until full funding is secured. The
different elements of Phase 1 could be completed incrementally.
Recreation and Wellness Center: A new two-story facility designed to serve multiple
community needs. The building would include four multipurpose gymnasiums that could
accommodate basketball, volleyball, indoor pickleball, and other recreational uses,
along with fitness studio spaces, locker rooms, offices, and dedicated health and
wellness areas. The facility would also incorporate storage space for emergency services
and sheltering supplies such as cots and equipment, supporting the City’s emergency
preparedness efforts.
Flexible Event Space: Adjacent to the Recreation and Wellness Center is a large, flexible
event space capable of hosting a wide range of activities such as ballroom dancing,
performing arts, classes, community meetings and presentations, weddings, parties, and
other community rentals. There is also a café area that can provide light refreshments,
beverages, and grab-and-go food for visitors, and a concessions area will serve snacks
for gym, pool, and athletic field events. The commercial kitchen could support cooking
and nutrition classes, event catering for the large flex space and campus rentals, and
food service during emergency shelter operations when the gyms are deployed.
Outdoor Programming: The current tennis courts would be elevated, with a surface-
level parking lot constructed underneath and the tennis courts reestablished on top.
Additionally, Phase I could include the construction of a new outdoor swimming pool to
expand aquatics programming and community recreation opportunities.
New Education Building: This building would support a range of educational and
community programs. This facility could house early education offerings, after-school
programs, and other lifelong learning opportunities, creating a dedicated space for
youth and family enrichment.
Performing Arts: Both the Pavilion and Cubberley Theatre would be renovated to
enhance the space as a community cultural hub. These improvements would create
flexible spaces for performing arts, dance, martial arts, music, rehearsals, and related
activities. Renovations would also include upgraded lobby areas to provide a more
welcoming and functional gathering space for audiences and performers. Recently on
January 28, 2026, the City and TheatreWorks Silicon Valley announced a partnership to
create a two-theatre complex that would include the renovation of the existing
Cubberley theatre and Pavilion and adding new construction. The existing Cubberley
theatre would be upgraded for continued community use and include new restrooms,
expanded back of house and lobby space, and improved accessibility. The Pavilion
would be renovated as the new home for Theatreworks Silicon Valley.
Existing Building Renovation: The two-story “I” building would be renovated to improve
functionality and extend its useful life. Phase I also includes renovation of remaining
buildings, so the full site continues to be operational until funding for phases II and III is
secured. Buildings and rooms currently used and occupied by PAUSD would become
Item 2
Item 2 Staff Report
Packet Pg. 11
Item No. 2. Page 6 of 8
available for programming, visual arts, makerspace and workshops and flexible rental
spaces.
Phase II: Phase II of the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan would focus on the construction of
visual arts and technology buildings, which includes makerspace and workshop areas for hands-
on projects, as well as gallery space for city curated and community exhibitions. This area will
also include artist creative studios, expanding opportunities for artists and community
members to create, learn, and showcase their work.
Phase III: Phase III of the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan would complete the Community
Services section and provide a café and lounge gathering space, a popular request from the
community, along with new community service and flexible spaces. The flexible space is
especially valuable, as it provides the ability to adapt to changing program needs and future
community priorities. It is designed to be future-proof, multi-purpose, and nimble—supporting
staff-led programs, hourly rentals, office space, and potentially accommodating additional
tenants. This intentional flexibility will ensure the campus continues to meet evolving needs
long after construction is complete.
Overall, the master plan proposes to increase the amount of indoor space from the current
184,000 square feet to 232,250 square feet after Phase I, and ultimately to 284,000 square feet
after Phases II and III. The increase in indoor square footage was informed by feedback received
from the community and existing tenants during the 2019 co-design process and current
master planning process, and opportunities to build upon existing public private partnerships
for expanded community space. Examples where square footage increases are notable include:
Recreational space, including gyms and programmable spaces for health and wellness
classes and activities;
Expanded theater and performing arts spaces with improved accessibility;
Visual arts spaces for art programs, classes, and exhibits to the community, including a
makerspace and creative workshops; and
Flexible spaces for city programming of classes and camps, and rental space.
Outdoor space also increases with the proposed plan from 250,000 square feet to 390,000
square feet after Phase I, and to 415,000 square feet after Phases II and III. This provides an
opportunity to improve the quality of outdoor spaces at Cubberley and provide for more
diverse uses, such as events, performances, outdoor programs, unstructured play and casual
gathering spaces.
Staff and the Cubberley Ad Hoc Committee are actively pursuing public-private partnership
opportunities to advance key components of the project. Notably, as mentioned above, the City
Council recently approved a Letter of Intent (LOI) for a proposed partnership with
TheatreWorks Silicon Valley which would create a two-theater complex through renovation and
new construction, while preserving and upgrading the Cubberley Theatre for community use. In
Item 2
Item 2 Staff Report
Packet Pg. 12
Item No. 2. Page 7 of 8
addition, the Friends of the Palo Alto Recreation and Wellness Center continue to work with
the City toward an agreement to help advance a future Recreation and Wellness Center. These
partnerships, together with development impact fees, grants, and philanthropy, are intended to
complement a future ballot measure and create a multi-part funding strategy.
FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
Item 2
Item 2 Staff Report
Packet Pg. 13
Item No. 2. Page 8 of 8
Project website (www.paloalto.gov/improvecubberley);
Online comment card asking for priorities and open fields to share vision and service
needs;
City updates via medium.com blog space;
Project updates sent via email newsletter to the project distribution list and project
updates shared through City channels including Nextdoor and digital newsletters, and
videos;
Utility bill inserts;
Resident mailers; and
Tabling at key City events.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The City, acting as the lead agency accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA), prepared an Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (Attachment B) to evaluate
potential environmental impacts associated with implementation of the Master Plan. The
environmental analysis concludes that while the project could have significant effects on the
environment, revisions to the project and incorporation of mitigation measures reduce all
impacts to less-than-significant levels. The IS/MND was circulated for a 30-day public review
beginning March 2, 2026, and ending April 1, 2026. The City will publish a Final MND prior to
Council decision on the project.
ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS
In addition to the recommended action, the Planning and Transportation Commission and
Architectural Review Board may:
1. Recommend approval of the project with modifications; or
2. Recommend project denial.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Cubberley Project Background
Attachment B: Project Documents including Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan and the Draft
Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
AUTHOR/TITLE:
Amanda Deml, Assistant Director Community Services
Item 2
Item 2 Staff Report
Packet Pg. 14
Attachment A
The Cubberley Site
The 35-acre Cubberley site, located at 4000 Middlefield Road in Palo Alto, operated as
Cubberley High School from 1956 to 1979. Beginning in the late 1980’s, the City began
leasing portions of the facilities from the Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD) at
the site. Today, the City operates the areas of Cubberley it controls as a community
center, using some of the space for classes and activities in arts, culture, athletics, and
sub-leasing additional space at City-subsidized rates to various non-profit and
community serving groups. The current lease agreement expires December 31, 2029.1
Today, the City owns eight acres of the 35-acre site. PAUSD owns the remaining 27
acres, most of which are leased to the City. There are currently 23 tenants and 24
artists leasing space at Cubberley from the City and dozens of groups renting the
theater, pavilion, classrooms, and athletic fields from the City. Combined, these groups
provide the community with programs that support health and wellness, childcare,
education, and visual and performing arts. PAUSD uses its retained space for
educational purposes and staff offices and has leases with some third-party tenants.
The parking lot in the southeast corner of the property houses portable trailers as a
temporary site for Hoover Elementary School during construction at the school’s site. A
current site map can be found on the City’s website.2
Several master planning efforts have been completed over the years to reimagine and
improve the Cubberley site, with the most recent being completed in 2019.3
Memorandum of Understanding with PAUSD
In October 2024,4 both the City Council and Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD or
District) Board of Education approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) related
to the future of the Cubberley site. The MOU outlines key terms and conditions for the
purchase and future planning of Cubberley. The land purchase, which would transfer
ownership of seven acres from PAUSD to the City, is contingent on voter approval of a
bond measure in November 2026. This condensed timeframe requires development of
a master plan for the site by March 2026, conduct stakeholder and community
engagement and outreach, polling, financial analysis, CEQA analysis, and other critical
tasks. The addition of the seven acres, plus the eight acres already owned by the City of
1 City Council, December 2, 2024: https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?
id=83118&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto
2 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/v/1/city-manager/communications-office/
cubberley-community-center_mappdf.pdf
3 Cubberley Concept Plan 2019: https://www.pausd.org/about-us/committees-task-forces/archived-committees/cubberley-master-plan
4 City Council, October 7, 2024; Agenda Item AA1; SR #2409-3500, https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=83032&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto
Item 2
Attachment A - Cubberley
Project Background
Packet Pg. 15
Attachment A
Palo Alto provides an opportunity to develop a new community center and other
improvements on a combined 15 acres at the Cubberley site to provide a range of City
programs, including health, wellness, and recreational opportunities for residents.
Master Plan Update and Pursuit of a Local Ballot Measure
To advance the master planning effort the City Council took several actions on
December 2, 20249 related to the future of the Cubberley site. These actions included
approval of a contract with Concordia, LLC, and associated budget actions for
development of a revised Master Plan for the Cubberley Community Center site,
building on the previous master plan completed in 2019 by Concordia and guided by
significant community input. Additionally, the Council approved a Letter of Intent with
the Friends of the Palo Alto Recreation Wellness Center for the purpose of fundraising
for a recreation wellness center (gymnasium) at the Cubberley site, and a workplan for
pursuit of a November 2026 local ballot measure to fund the purchase of land and
development of a new community center at the Cubberley site.
Subsequent Council actions included approving a five-year lease with PAUSD10 to
continue the current use of the property, including playing fields, approval of a
professional services agreement with Rincon for CEQA analysis,11 and approval of
professional service agreements with Lew Edwards Group and Fairbank, Maslin, Metz
& Associates12 for ballot measure strategy advisement and community polling.
Cubberley Ad Hoc Committee
The Council established the Cubberley Ad Hoc Committee (as a non-Brown Act body)
to review and advise staff on efforts related to polling and development of a ballot
measure that will successfully receive voter support in 2026. Efforts include polling,
financial and revenue modeling for the community center, master planning, and
community outreach to complete the Master Plan and place a measure on the
November 2026 ballot.
The City Council will serve as the governing body for policy direction at key decision
points. This includes direction to conduct polling, review of concept designs, direction on
9 City Council, December 2, 2024; Agenda Item 18, SR #2410-3634, https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=83117&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto
10 City Council, December 2, 2024; Agenda Item 12; SR #2410-3651, https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=83118&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto
11 City Council, December 16, 2024; Agenda Item 12; SR #2411-3813, https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=83167&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto
12 City Council, February 24, 2025; Agenda Item 4; SR #2501-4039, https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=83267&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto
Item 2
Attachment A - Cubberley
Project Background
Packet Pg. 16
Attachment A
operating and financial models, and decisions on what should be placed on the
November 2026 ballot.
April 21, 2025 City Council Meeting
At the April 21, 2025 City Council meeting,17 staff presented outcomes from the first
community meeting held on March 19, an update on the Cubberley Master Plan Project
workplan and sought Council authorization to initiate the first community poll.
First Cubberley Master Plan Community Meeting
The first community meeting for the Cubberley Master Plan Project was held on March
19, 2025, and was attended by over 120 community members and stakeholders.
Participants completed two activities in table groups of up to eight people with guided
facilitation, focusing on the vision for the community center, programming, and place
making. The first meeting goals included a review of the Vision from the City Council
session and then using a list from the previous community engagement process,
participants were asked to review and confirm desired programming and adjacencies for
the future Community Center. The outcomes of the March 19 meeting were presented18
to the City Council on April 21, 2025.
The first activity focused on a review of the Council Vision statement and participants
were asked to expand the Vision statement with additional values and ideas.
Community members valued: Multipurpose, adaptable spaces to accommodate diverse
uses over time; Gathering hubs for interconnectivity and communication between
diverse social, cultural and generational groups; Accessibility for all ages, cultures and
abilities to access holistic wellness resources; Integration of green space and
sustainability features in experiential and infrastructural planning; and Affordability for
local Palo Altans and for tenants who have a community focus. Overall, participants
focused on flexibility, inclusivity, sustainability, and long-term community engagement
as high-level themes.
The second activity focused on programming and adjacencies of indoor and outdoor
spaces. The most selected indoor programs were Theater/Performance Space, Dance
Classes, Art Studio, Art Classes, followed by Gym Facility, Flexible Rental Space, and a
Café. For outdoor programs, Open Greenspace was the most selected program
followed by Playground, Amphitheater, and Pool/Water Area. Compared to 2019, the
most mentioned programs then (indoor and outdoor) were Adult Education,
17 City Council, April 21, 2025; Agenda Item 11; SR #2503-4310, https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=83361&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto
18 Staff Presentation, April 21, 2025;
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/viewer?id=0&type=7&uid=71ade3d7-a57a-4195-a59b-
c410d90832ea
Item 2
Attachment A - Cubberley
Project Background
Packet Pg. 17
Attachment A
Theater/Performance Space, Greenspace, Makerspace, and Senior/Multigenerational
Programs.
Feedback on First Community Poll
Polling experts, FM3 presented21 themes for the first community poll designed to test
voter opinions on the community center’s goals, preferred uses, and willingness to
support funding through a tax or bond. The poll themes and questions were developed
with input from the Cubberley Ad Hoc Committee and will inform critical upcoming
milestones in the project. The Council did not take an action but supported proceeding
with the poll.
April 22,2025 Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting
On April 22, 2025,22 staff presented an informational update to the Parks and
Recreation Commission, offering a comprehensive overview of the project's overall
workplan and timeline. The presentation included a detailed summary of Community
Meeting #1, highlighting key themes and priorities that emerged from the community’s
feedback. Staff also introduced Poll #1, which was launched at the end of April, and
encouraged Commissioners to help promote the survey to ensure broad community
participation. In addition, the presentation outlined several ways the Commission can
remain engaged and support the project, including serving as ambassadors within the
community, helping to share information, and providing feedback. The creation of a
PRC Cubberley ad-hoc committee was discussed and it was decided that this topic will
be further considered during the upcoming workplan revisions scheduled for the coming
months.
June 9, 2025 City Council Meeting
On June 9, 2025,23 staff presented to City Council the results of the first community poll,
community engagement milestones coming up and updates to the workplan. The focus
of the first poll was to survey voter input on the goals and future of the community
center and possible support for a tax or bond measure. Staff also shared community
engagement. Overall, the poll found broad majority support for improvement at the
Cubberley site. Surveyed voters place highest priority on bringing the facility up to
modern standards for electrical, plumbing, safety, and accessibility early childhood
21 FM3 Presentation, April 21, 2025; https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/viewer?id=0&type=7&uid=83ec6422-b6e4-4e83-9ca3-
ca746a5971a0
22 Staff Presentation, April 22, 2025; https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/viewer?id=0&type=7&uid=dae0543c-e007-4fc1-9a69-
fd08b156ee94
23 City Council, June 9, 2025, Agenda Item 2; SR#2503-4313, https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=83442&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto
Item 2
Attachment A - Cubberley
Project Background
Packet Pg. 18
Attachment A
education; affordability and efficient use of taxpayer dollars; and overall repairs for the
facility. Lastly, staff shared with the City Council the community revised Vision
Statement for the future of the Community Center.
June 12, 2025 Second Cubberley Master Plan Community Meeting
A vibrant, beloved,
and adaptable destination that promotes learning, connections, joy, and wellbeing
where all cultures and generations belong. Following this, staff provided an overview
presentation to orient attendees to the three 3-D concept plans being presented. Each
conceptual design includes an A, B, and C variations exploring different configurations
of building placement, new construction vs renovation, green space, bike and
pedestrian circulation, and parking—both above and below ground.
Item 2
Attachment A - Cubberley
Project Background
Packet Pg. 19
Attachment A
Approximately 130 community members attended the second Cubberley Community
Meeting and were highly engaged in providing feedback on the three presented concept
designs. Attendees shared a wide range of reactions to various aspects of the designs,
particularly discussing building layouts, the placement and amount of green space,
parking structures, and preferences between above- and below-ground concepts. While
perspectives varied, there was clear consensus around the excitement for the project’s
progress and enthusiasm to see the plans taking shape. Community members
expressed eagerness to continue the conversation, particularly around program
placement, at the next meeting.
June 19, 2025 Public Art Commission Meeting
27 City staff presented to the Public Art Commission and discussed
potential opportunities to support the City’s Strategic Activation Plan for the Cubberley
site, which was developed by staff in coordination with the City Council’s Cubberley Ad
Hoc Committee. The plan outlined phased enhancements and activations aligned with
the broader master planning process, community engagement efforts, and the
anticipated November 2026 ballot initiative. As part of the discussion, Commissioners
explored how the ArtLift grant program—previously identified at their January retreat as
a potential tool—could be leveraged to support temporary public art installations at
Cubberley and other key locations. Ideas included murals, ground art, freestanding
sculptures, and performance-based activations to help generate community excitement
and reinforce the role of the arts in creating vibrant, inclusive public spaces.
June 24, 2025 Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting
28 City staff provided the Parks and Recreation Commission with an
informational update on the Cubberley Community Center Master Plan. The
presentation included a recap of the second community meeting held on June 12,
where Concordia unveiled three concept designs for the site and invited community
feedback. Staff also presented the results of the first community poll, released in late
April, and shared a list of proposed near-term activation ideas for the Cubberley site,
inviting the Commission’s input. In addition, staff sought feedback from the Commission
on the three concept designs. The newly formed PRC Cubberley Ad Hoc Committee will
continue to refine the activation plans in July.
27 Staff Presentation, June 19, 2025;
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/viewer?id=0&type=7&uid=a036e199-31cd-4d94-8214-
7fb0170e39ac
28 Staff Presentation, June 24, 2025;
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/viewer?id=0&type=7&uid=ac29aa36-1b3a-4403-b8b2-
cc403685865d
Item 2
Attachment A - Cubberley
Project Background
Packet Pg. 20
Attachment A
July 9, 2025 Planning and Transportation Commission Meeting
On July 9, 2025,31 the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) received an
update on the Cubberley Master Plan and was asked to provide input to help inform the
next phase of the planning process. Staff requested feedback on several key aspects
recently reviewed by the community, including arrival and parking, pedestrian
circulation, building scale and space organization, greenspace layout, the balance of
built and open space, and how the site can be a good neighbor. Additional PTC
feedback emphasized the importance of clear cost comparisons between renovation
and new construction, interest in public-private funding models, and support for a future
bond measure and donor engagement. Commissioners favored partial underground
parking and better integration with transit and surrounding neighborhoods. There was
broad interest in maintaining flexible green space for events, ensuring safe and
separate bike/pedestrian circulation, and preserving multigenerational, inclusive
programming. Suggestions also included clearer diagrams, more tangible use
examples, and consideration of impacts from surrounding development.
On July 17,32 2025, the Architectural Review Board (ARB) received a presentation on
the Cubberley Master Plan and provided early feedback to help shape the next phase of
planning. The Board expressed strong support for phased development and
emphasized minimizing disruption to existing tenants and programs. Members praised
pedestrian and bike circulation, supported the proposed balance of buildings and green
space, and encouraged improvements to vehicle access and mobility hubs. There was
general support for new construction over renovation and interest in enhancing the site's
identity through public art and flexible community spaces. The ARB also encouraged a
welcoming design that reflects Cubberley’s civic and cultural significance while being a
good neighbor to the surrounding community.
On September 17, 2025, the City held the third and final community meeting for the
Cubberley Master Plan, facilitated by Concordia. Approximately 150 community
31 Staff Presentation, June 9, 2025;
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/viewer?id=0&type=7&uid=49fc32cf-caa1-4dd9-97f9-
5d5d02150256
32 Staff Presentation, July 17, 2025;
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/viewer?id=0&type=7&uid=2a9a7988-768f-465b-bcf9-
68166ff9af6f
Item 2
Attachment A - Cubberley
Project Background
Packet Pg. 21
Attachment A
members attended and were highly engaged in reviewing the refined concept design. At
the outset, City staff and Concordia recapped the first two community meetings,
provided a project overview, and highlighted updates to the concept plan, including
phasing strategies. Following this presentation, participants engaged in two interactive
activities to provide focused feedback.
Item 2
Attachment A - Cubberley
Project Background
Packet Pg. 22
Attachment A
circulation pathways. The feedback gathered will directly inform refinement of the
preferred concept plan. The full meeting summary will be finalized in the coming weeks
and shared with the community through the project webpage and via City
communication channels. Concordia and staff will incorporate this input as they prepare
for the final presentation of the proposed master plan, cost estimates, and phasing
scenarios to the community and City Council on December 8, 2025.
September 23, 2025 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting
35 2025, the Parks and Recreation Commission (PRC) received a
presentation on the refined Cubberley Community Center Master Plan concept following
the third and final community meeting held on September 17, 2025. Commissioners
reviewed updates on program placement, phasing, and site circulation, and were asked
to provide input on the same questions posed to the community: what is working well,
what could be improved, and what creative ideas could enhance the campus
experience.
October 20, 2025 City Council Meeting
35 Staff Presentation, September 23, 2025;
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/viewer/preview?id=0&type=8&uid=efbb1418-4bbe-49b2-b786-
165e29017ca3
Item 2
Attachment A - Cubberley
Project Background
Packet Pg. 23
Attachment A
purchase, and the extent of how much voters are willing to pay annually. Following the
October 20 meeting, and the November 4 election, the second poll was released.
December 15, 2025 City Council Meeting
February 9, 2026 City Council Meeting
Item 2
Attachment A - Cubberley
Project Background
Packet Pg. 24
Attachment A
a two-theater complex through renovation of the existing Community Theatre and
Pavilion, with new construction to support TheatreWorks, and upgrades to the
Cubberley Theatre for continued community use, including new restrooms, an
expanded lobby, and improved accessibility. Staff recommended approval of a Letter of
Intent with TheatreWorks to formalize this joint commitment, which Council approved. In
addition, staff shared that the Friends of the Recreation and Wellness Center and the
City are continuing to develop terms for an agreement to advance a future recreation
and wellness center with new multi-court gymnasium space on the Cubberley campus.
Avenidas Executive Director, Kristina Lugo, was also in attendance and publicly
expressed interest in exploring partnership opportunities with the City at the Cubberley
site.
Item 2
Attachment A - Cubberley
Project Background
Packet Pg. 25
Attachment B
Project Documents:
1.Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan
2.Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan Appendences
3.CEQA Draft Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND)
Directions to review Project documents online
1. Go to: www.paloalto.gov/improvecubberley
2. To review the Master Plan project documents, scroll down to find “Draft
Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan Complete” and underneath you’ll find the
following documents
a. Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan
b. Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan Appendences
3. To review the CEQA project documents, scroll down to find “Draft Initial
Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Available for Public Comment” and
underneath you’ll find the following documents
a. Final Notice of Intent
b. Mitigated Negative Declaration
c. Appendix A - Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Modeling Results
d. Appendix B - Health Risk Assessment
e. Appendix C - Cultural Resources Report
f. Appendix D - Energy Calculations
g. Appendix E - Geotechnical Investigation
h. Appendix F - Noise Measurement Data and Noise Modeling Results
i. Appendix G - Transportation Analysis
j. Appendix H - Assembly Bill 52 and Senate Bill 18 Correspondence
Direct Link to Project Webpage
Help Us Improve Cubberley – City of Palo Alto, CA
Item 2
Attachment B - Project
Documents including
Cubberley Conceptual
Master Plan and the Draft
Initial Study - Mitigated
Negative Declaration
Packet Pg. 26