HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-05-11 City Council Agenda PacketCITY COUNCIL
Special Meeting
Monday, May 11, 2026
Council Chambers & Hybrid
4:30 PM
Amended Agenda
Amended agenda items appear below in RED
Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by
teleconference or in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in the
meeting is located at the end of the agenda. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel
76, live on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen Media
Center https://midpenmedia.org.
VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/362027238)
Meeting ID: 362 027 238 Phone:1(669)900-6833
PUBLIC COMMENTS
General Public Comment for items not on the agenda will be accepted in person for up to three
minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. General public comment will be heard
for 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda.
Public comments for agendized items will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to
three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. Requests to speak will be taken
until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation or as determined by the Chair. Written public
comments can be submitted in advance to city.council@PaloAlto.gov and will be provided to
the Council and available for inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which
agenda item you are referencing in your subject line. Multiple individuals who wish to speak on
the same item may designate a spokesperson. Spokespersons must be representing five or more
verified individuals who are present either in person or via zoom. Spokespeople will be allowed
up to 10 minutes, at the discretion of the presiding officer. Speaking time may be reduced if the
presiding officer reduces the speaking time for individual speakers. Translation services are
available upon written request to city.clerk@paloalto.gov received at least 24 hours before the
meeting.
PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only
by email to city.clerk@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.
TIME ESTIMATES
Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the
meeting is in progress. The Council reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to
change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be
heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage
the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public.
1 May 11, 2026
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at www.paloalto.gov/agendas.
CALL TO ORDER
SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY (4:30 - 4:45 PM)
1.City Employee Years of Service Awards and Proclamation acknowledging Public Service
Recognition Week
2.Recognizing May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI)
Heritage Month and May 10, 2026 as AANHPI Mental Health Awareness Day Item
Removed Off Agenda
AA1.Proclamation Recognizing National Police Week as May 10-16, 2026 and National
Peace Officers' Memorial Day as May 15, 2026 New Item Added
CLOSED SESSION (4:45 - 5:15 PM)
3.CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL—EXISTING LITIGATION
Subject: Anne Kramer vs City of Palo Alto, Santa Clara County Superior Court
Case No. 25CV461517
Authority: Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:15 - 5:45 PM)
Members of the public may speak in-person ONLY to any item NOT on the agenda. 1-3 minutes depending on number of
speakers. Public Comment is limited to 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (5:45 - 5:55 PM)
Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
STUDY SESSION (5:55 - 7:25 PM)
4.FY 2027 Proposed Operating and Capital Budget - Finance Committee Update and
Council Budget Discussion. CEQA Status – Not a project Late Packet Report added
2 May 11, 2026
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at www.paloalto.gov/agendas.
CONSENT CALENDAR (7:25 - 7:30 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
5.Approval of Issuing Purchase Order C27197248 with Solutions Simplified, Utilizing a State
of California Department of General Services Software Licensing Program Contract SLP-
25-70-0181H, to Procure Zscaler Software Maintenance and Support for a Three-Year
Term for a Total Not-To-Exceed Amount of $329,886; CEQA Status - Not a Project.
6.Approval of Contract Amendment No. 4 to Contract C19174648A with VERTEXONE
SOFTWARE, LLC for the WaterSmart Utilities Customer Portal, to Extend the Term for
Three Additional Years ending August 12, 2029 and Increase Compensation by $140,000,
for a Revised Total Not to Exceed of $677,763; CEQA Status – Exempt under CEQA
Guidelines Section 15308.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (7:30 - 7:40 PM)
BREAK (15 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 7: 7:55 - 8:55 PM; Item 8: 8:55 - 10:25 PM)
Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished
Business and Council Matters.
7.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI-JUDICIAL. 3781 El Camino Real [24PLN-00161]: Request for
Approval of Major Architectural Review Application to Merge Four Existing Parcels to
Create a 63,025 Square-Foot Parcel and to Construct a Seven-Story, Multi-Family
Residential Housing Development Project with 183 Units. Thirteen Percent of The Base
Units Would be Provided at a Rate Affordable to Low Income. The Project is Proposed in
Accordance with Builder’s Remedy (California Government Code Section 65589.5(d)(5)).
A Senate Bill 330 Pre-Application was Filed on February 15, 2024. CEQA Status: Exempt
Pursuant to Assembly Bill 130 (Public Resources Code Section 21080.66).
8.Expedited Evaluation of the Potential Temporary Closure of the Churchill Avenue Rail
Crossing, Determination of Next Steps, and CEQA Status – Statutorily and Categorically
Exempt. Supplemental Report added
(Continued Item from 4/15/2026 – On April 15, 2026, the City Council Received
Presentations and Public Testimony; The Item is Continued to May 11, 2026 for further
Council Discussion, Deliberation, and Potential Action – No Additional Public Testimony
Will be Heard on May 11, 2026.)
3 May 11, 2026
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at www.paloalto.gov/agendas.
ADJOURNMENT
INFORMATION REPORTS
Information reports are provided for informational purposes only to the Council and the public but are not listed for action or
discussion during this meeting’s agenda.
A.Informational Update on the Palo Alto Dark Fiber Expansion Plan and Fiber-to-the-
Premises
B.Palo Alto Transportation Management Association 2025 Annual Report, 2027-29
Strategic Plan, and 2025 Commute Survey
OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings this week
Rail Committee May 12, 2026
Policy & Services Committee May 12, 2026
Council Appointed Officers Committee May 14, 2026
Climate Action & Sustainability Committee May 15, 2026
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
AMENDED AGENDA ITEMS
2.Recognizing May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI)
Heritage Month and May 10, 2026 as AANHPI Mental Health Awareness Day Item
Removed Off Agenda
AA1.Proclamation Recognizing National Police Week as May 10-16, 2026 and National
Peace Officers' Memorial Day as May 15, 2026 New Item Added
4.FY 2027 Proposed Operating and Capital Budget - Finance Committee Update and
Council Budget Discussion. CEQA Status – Not a project Late Packet Report added
4 May 11, 2026
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at www.paloalto.gov/agendas.
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 city.council@PaloAlto.gov.
2.For in person public comments please complete a speaker request card located on the
table at the entrance to the Council Chambers and deliver it to the Clerk prior to
discussion of the item.
3.Spoken public comments for agendized items using a computer or smart phone will be
accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Council, click on the link
below to access a Zoom-based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
◦You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in- browser. If using
your browser, make sure you are using a current, up-to-date browser: Chrome 30 ,
Firefox 27 , Microsoft Edge 12 , Safari 7 . Certain functionality may be disabled in
older browsers including Internet Explorer. Or download the Zoom application onto
your smart phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter in the
Meeting ID below.
◦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.
4.Spoken public comments for agendized items using a phone use the telephone number
listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we
know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before
addressing the Council. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called
please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 362-027-238 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.
5 May 11, 2026
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at www.paloalto.gov/agendas.
California Government Code §84308, commonly referred to as the "Levine Act," prohibits an
elected official of a local government agency from participating in a proceeding involving a
license, permit, or other entitlement for use if the official received a campaign contribution
exceeding $500 from a party or participant, including their agents, to the proceeding within the
last 12 months. A “license, permit, or other entitlement for use” includes most land use and
planning approvals and the approval of contracts that are not subject to lowest responsible bid
procedures and have a value over $50,000. A “party” is a person who files an application for, or
is the subject of, a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use. A
“participant” is a person who actively supports or opposes a particular decision in a proceeding
involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use, and has a financial interest in the
decision. The Levine Act incorporates the definition of “financial interest” in the Political Reform
Act, which encompasses interests in business entities, real property, sources of income, sources
of gifts, and personal finances that may be affected by the Council’s actions. If you qualify as a
“party” or “participant” to a proceeding, and you have made a campaign contribution to a
Council Member exceeding $500 made within the last 12 months, you must disclose the
campaign contribution before making your comments.
6 May 11, 2026
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at www.paloalto.gov/agendas.
City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
Lead Department: Human Resources
Meeting Date: May 11, 2026
Report #:2603-6072
TITLE
City Employee Years of Service Awards and Proclamation acknowledging Public Service
Recognition Week
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that City Council recognize employees for their years of dedicated service
and acknowledge National Public Service Recognition Week occurring throughout last week
from May 3 – 9, 2026.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Public Service Recognition Week May 3 – 9, 2026
APPROVED BY:
Sandra Blanch, Human Resources Director
Item 1
Item 1 Staff Report
Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 7 of 212
PUBLIC SERVICE RECOGNITION WEEK
May 3 - 9, 2026
WHEREAS, Americans are served every single day by public servants at the federal, state, county and city levels.
These unsung heroes do the work that keeps our nation working; and across our nation, public employees take not only
jobs, but oaths of office; and
WHEREAS, many public servants risk their lives each day in service to the people of our communities, as well
as providing safety inspections and patrols, maintaining our infrastructure, operate our public facilities, and provide
the diverse services demanded by the American people with integrity and diligence; and
WHEREAS, public servants provide institutional knowledge, experience, and continuity that support the long-
term sustainability of our community assets and organizational history; and
WHEREAS, here in our city, our staff promotes and sustains the superior quality of life in Palo Alto, and in
partnership with our community delivers cost-effective services in a personal, responsive, and innovative manner; and
WHEREAS, over the past year alone, our city staff oversaw the lending of over 1.3 million library materials;
cleaned and treated 90+ miles of sewer lines; replaced over 55,000 square feet of sidewalk; processed 5,800 employee
personnel transactions; facilitated the participation of over 13,500 individuals in a variety of classes, camps, and
programs spanning arts, sciences, recreational activities and open space; maintained 32 parks and over 36,000 trees;
provided nearly 4,000 ambulance transports; issued over 4,000 building permits and completed over 18,500 building
inspections; and received over 50,000 calls for police or fire services, and much more, all with the professionalism we
know and appreciate, day in and day out.
NOW, THEREFORE I, Vicki Veenker, Mayor of the City of Palo Alto on behalf of the entire City Council, do
hereby proclaim that May 3, 2026, to May 9, 2026, is Public Service Recognition Week. All citizens are encouraged
to recognize the accomplishments and contributions of government employees at all levels - federal, state, county and
city - and especially our City of Palo Alto employees.
Presented: May 11, 2026
______________________________
Vicki Veenker
Mayor
Proclamation
Item 1
Attachment A - Public
Service Recognition Week
May 3 - 9, 2026
Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 8 of 212
City Council
Staff Report
Report Type: SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
Lead Department: City Clerk
Meeting Date: May 11, 2026
Report #:2604-6315
TITLE
Recognizing May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage
Month and May 10, 2026 as AANHPI Mental Health Awareness Day
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Recognizing May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander
(AANHPI) Heritage Month and May 10, 2026 as AANHPI Mental Health Awareness Day
APPROVED BY:
Mahealani Ah Yun, City Clerk
Item 2
Item 2 Staff Report
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 9 of 212
RECOGNIZING MAY AS ASIAN AMERICAN, NATIVE HAWAIIAN, AND PACIFIC
ISLANDER (AANHPI) HERITAGE MONTH AND MAY 10, 2026 AS AANHPI MENTAL
HEALTH AWARENESS DAY
WHEREAS, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month is observed
during the month of May to recognize the contributions and influence of AANHPI communities on the history, culture,
and achievements of the United States, and to raise awareness of important issues affecting these communities,
including mental health; and
WHEREAS, the month of May was selected to commemorate the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the
United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May
10, 1869, the majority of the workers being Chinese immigrants, including but not limited to Asian American, Native
Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities; and
WHEREAS, citizens of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander descent represent more than 35
percent of Palo Alto’s population and are part of the more than 6 million AANHPI individuals residing in California,
making these communities an invaluable part of the rich fabric of our City and State; and
WHEREAS, for more than 200 years, AANHPI individuals have lived and worked in the United States and have
made significant contributions across all sectors, including the economy, culture, education, government, the arts, law
enforcement, the military, literature, science, and technology, despite institutional and systemic injustices that have
been designed to silence and cover up these achievements and contributions; and
WHEREAS, May 10, 2026, is recognized as AANHPI Mental Health Awareness Day, highlighting the need to
increase awareness of mental health, reduce stigma associated with seeking care, and improve access to culturally and
linguistically responsive services within AANHPI communities, which continue to experience some of the lowest rates
of mental health service utilization among all racial and ethnic groups, due in part to stigma as well as cultural and
linguistic barriers faced by individuals, families, and communities; and
WHEREAS, raising awareness about the mental health of all individuals, and this month, especially of Asian
American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities past and present, encourages professional interest in
health and human services careers and fosters a diversified workforce that reflects the community.
NOW, THEREFORE I, Vicki Veenker, Mayor of the City of Palo Alto, on behalf of the entire City Council, do
hereby proclaim May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and recognize
May 10, 2026 as AANHPI Mental Health Awareness Day, and encourage all community members to celebrate the
contributions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, and reaffirm the City of Palo
Alto’s commitment to fostering an inclusive community, supporting culturally responsive mental health resources and
well-being for all residents.
Presented: May 11, 2026
______________________________
Vicki Veenker
Mayor
Proclamation
Item 2
Attachment A - Recognizing
May as Asian American,
Native Hawaiian, and Pacific
Islander (AANHPI) Heritage
Month and May 10, 2026 as
AANHPI Mental Health
Awareness Day
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 10 of 212
City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: STUDY SESSION
Lead Department: Administrative Services
Meeting Date: May 11, 2026
Report #:2604-6321
TITLE
FY 2027 Proposed Operating and Capital Budget - Finance Committee Update and Council
Budget Discussion. CEQA Status – Not a project
This report will be a late packet report published on May 7, 2026.
APPROVED BY:
Lauren Lai, Administrative Services Director
Item 4
Item 4 Staff Report
Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 11 of 212
City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: CONSENT CALENDAR
Lead Department: IT Department
Meeting Date: May 11, 2026
Report #:2603-6149
TITLE
Approval of Issuing Purchase Order C27197248 with Solutions Simplified, Utilizing a State of
California Department of General Services Software Licensing Program Contract SLP-25-70-
0181H, to Procure Zscaler Software Maintenance and Support for a Three-Year Term for a Total
Not-To-Exceed Amount of $329,886; CEQA Status - Not a Project.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that City Council approve and authorize the City Manager or their designee
execute Purchase Order C27197248 with Solutions Simplified, utilizing the above-noted SLP-25-
70-0181H1 contract, to procure Zscaler software maintenance and support for a three-year
term (July 31, 2026 to July 30, 2029) with an annual amount of $109,962 and a total not-to-
exceed amount of $329,886.
BACKGROUND
The City implemented the Zscaler cloud security platform on July 31, 2023 as part of ongoing
efforts to strengthen cybersecurity and modernize remote access. Zscaler provides a cloud-
based Zero Trust model that helps protect City systems and data by securing access to the
internet, cloud services, and internal applications, while supporting a hybrid workforce.
Zscaler replaces traditional VPN-based remote access with application-level access, reducing
exposure of the City’s internal network and improving security and performance for staff. As
the City’s current subscription term approaches expiration, staff is recommending a three-year
renewal to maintain day-to-day operations and cyber risk management.
1 State of California Software Licensing Program (SLP):
https://caleprocure.ca.gov/PSRelay/ZZ_PO.ZZ_CTR_SUP_CMP.GBL?Page=ZZ_CTR_SUP_PG&Action=U&SETID=STAT
E&CNTRCT_ID=SLP-25-70-0181H
Item 5
Item 5 Staff Report
Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 12 of 212
ANALYSIS
Approving this quote and issuing a purchase order will allow the City to continue using Zscaler’s
Zero Trust cloud security platform without interruption for the period July 31, 2026 through
July 30, 2029. Continuity of this service is critical to protecting City users and systems from
evolving cyber threats, securing access to internet and SaaS applications (including Microsoft
365), and enabling reliable, secure access to internal applications for staff working on-site and
remotely. A lapse in software maintenance and support could reduce the City’s ability to
respond to security events, apply updates, and maintain stable connectivity for business
applications.
This procurement leverages cooperative contract SLP-25-70-0181H, under which the California
Department of General Services (DGS) conducted a competitive solicitation and awarded
Solutions Simplified as an approved vendor, allowing eligible public agencies to use the
competitively solicited terms. The vendor offered a flat annual rate of $109,962 with no annual
escalation, for a total not-to-exceed amount of $329,886 over three years. In addition to
utilizing cooperative pricing, City staff negotiated below the cooperative contract price sheet
rates, generating additional cost savings while maintaining the required maintenance and
support coverage.
The costs are expected to occur in FY 2027. Funding for this contract will be included in the FY
2027 annual budget development base budget process, subject to City Council approval
consistent with how multi-year technology support contracts are funded in future years. The
Information Technology Department (ITD) is supported through an internal service fund model.
Approximately 49% of ITD’s costs are funded by the General Fund, with the remaining 51%
supported by enterprise and special revenue funds.
Staff coordinated with internal City stakeholders to confirm the renewal scope aligns with
Citywide cybersecurity and operational requirements. Staff also worked closely with the vendor
on the renewal quote to validate licensing needs, confirm service expectations, and ensure
continued support for secure access to City applications and services.
The approval of this contract is exempt from review under the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) under CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3).
Attachment A: Solutions Simplified Quote no. 14505 for Zscaler
:
Darren Numoto, Chief Information Officer; Lisa Bolger, Assistant Director Information
Technology/CTO
Item 5
Item 5 Staff Report
Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 13 of 212
Solutions Simplified
3626 Fair Oaks Blvd. Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95864
www.solutionssimplified.net Date:
A Certified Women-Owned Business Quote #:
Valid Until:
Prepared By: Hanna Medina FEIN:47-5088841
Phone: 530-908-1171 Seller's Permit:102-806808
Fax: 916-244-0351 DUNS:80004788
Email: hanna.medina@solutionssimplified.net CAGE:7GNN0
CUSTOMER
Parag Kumar Delivery:Electronic
City of Palo Alto FOB:Destination, Freight PPD
250 Hamliton Ave 2nd Floor Payment Terms:Net 45
Palo Alto, CA 94301 USA Contract #:SLP-25-70-0181H
parag.kumar@paloalto.gov
(650) 329-2626
ITEM #PART #DESCRIPTION QTY UNIT PRICE EXT PRICE TAXED
1 ZIA-BIZ-EDITION 750 $46.50 $34,875.00 N
2 ZPA-BIZ-EDITION 750 $75.68 $56,760.00 N
3 ZCES-SUP-ESS 1 $18,327.00 $18,327.00 N
$109,962.00
4 ZIA-BIZ-EDITION 750 $46.50 $34,875.00 N
5 ZPA-BIZ-EDITION 750 $75.68 $56,760.00 N
6 ZCES-SUP-ESS 1 $18,327.00 $18,327.00 N
$109,962.00
ZIA Business EditionZscaler, Inc - ZIA-BIZ-EDITION
ZPA Business EditionZscaler, Inc - ZPA-BIZ-EDITION
Annual Zscaler Support Essentials (20% of List Price)
24/7 support. The published $0.20 price is not the
Customer's final price. The purchase price of the
software maintenance is based on a Commercial List
Price that is 20.0% of the price you paid for
thZscaler, Inc - ZCES-SUP-ESS
ZIA Business EditionZscaler, Inc - ZIA-BIZ-EDITION
ZPA Business EditionZscaler, Inc - ZPA-BIZ-EDITION
Annual Zscaler Support Essentials (20% of List Price)
24/7 support. The published $0.20 price is not the
Customer's final price. The purchase price of the
software maintenance is based on a Commercial List
Price that is 20.0% of the price you paid for
thZscaler, Inc - ZCES-SUP-ESS
Year One Subtotal:
Year Two Term: 07/31/2027 - 07/30/2028
Year Two Subtotal:
QUOTE
3/5/26
14505
7/30/26
Year One Term: 07/31/2026 - 07/30/2027
Item 5
Attachment A - Solutions
Simplified Quote no. 14505
for Zscaler
Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 14 of 212
7 ZIA-BIZ-EDITION 750 $46.50 $34,875.00 N
8 ZPA-BIZ-EDITION 750 $75.68 $56,760.00 N
9 ZCES-SUP-ESS 1 $18,327.00 $18,327.00 N
$109,962.00
Subtotal $329,886.00
NOTES:Tax Rate 8.75%
1. This quote is valid for 30 days from original quote date Tax $0.00
unless otherwise specified above.Total $329,886.00
2. We accept Purchase Order, Visa, Mastercard, & AMEX.
3. Orders placed on a credit card are subject to a 3% fee.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR BUSINESS!
Please contact us if you have any questions or need further information.
4. Our product return window is 30 days from receipt of order. There are no
returns / refunds on software
ZIA Business EditionZscaler, Inc - ZIA-BIZ-EDITION
ZPA Business EditionZscaler, Inc - ZPA-BIZ-EDITION
Annual Zscaler Support Essentials (20% of List Price)
24/7 support. The published $0.20 price is not the
Customer's final price. The purchase price of the
software maintenance is based on a Commercial List
Price that is 20.0% of the price you paid for
thZscaler, Inc - ZCES-SUP-ESS
Year Three Term: 07/31/2028 - 07/30/2029
Year Three Subtotal:
Item 5
Attachment A - Solutions
Simplified Quote no. 14505
for Zscaler
Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 15 of 212
Renewal Term: July 31, 2026 - July 30, 2029
This is a 3-year non-cancellable term with an annual payment structure.
The customer agrees that all payments will be paid in a timely manner based on the payment schedule below. Installment Payments:
All payments are due NET 30 from their respective invoice date. Customer will pay Carahsoft the Total amount of this quote; in the
following installments:
Payment 1: $109,962.00 due NET 30 from the invoice date
Payment 2: $109,962.00 will be invoiced 1 year from the original purchase date and due NET 30
Payment 3: $109,962.00 will be invoiced 2 years from the original purchase date and due NET 30
The total amount and payments due herein are separate from, and in addition to, any payments due in connection with any other
Carahsoft transaction. Failure to pay any installment in a timely fashion will result in all remaining payments to become
immediately due. Any fees paid will be non-refundable.
For U.S. Government Resellers, such Resellers agree to obtain End User Customer’s acceptance of Zscaler’ s end user subscription
agreement (EUSA) by either (1) obtaining End User Customer’s signature on a hard copy of the EUSA; (2) ensuring the EUSA link
at:https://www.zscaler.com/legal/end-user-subscription-agreement-us-government-customersis included in the End User
Customer’s final binding purchase order to Reseller; or (3) attaching the EUSA as an exhibit to Reseller’s final binding contract/order
with End User Customer for the Zscaler Products.In addition to the EUSA, Zscaler's Deployment Services or Professional Services shall
be governed by the terms at https://www.zscaler.com/resources/legal/deployment-and-ps-terms.pdfIf Resident Engineer services
are purchased as part of this quote, those services are billed infull upfront.All subscriptions purchased herein are non-
cancellableSFP (small form-factor pluggable) devices are NOT part of private service edges sku or offering and need to be ordered by
Reseller
Item 5
Attachment A - Solutions
Simplified Quote no. 14505
for Zscaler
Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 16 of 212
City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: CONSENT CALENDAR
Lead Department: Utilities
Meeting Date: May 11, 2026
Report #:2602-5926
TITLE
Approval of Contract Amendment No. 4 to Contract C19174648A with VERTEXONE SOFTWARE,
LLC for the WaterSmart Utilities Customer Portal, to Extend the Term for Three Additional Years
ending August 12, 2029 and Increase Compensation by $140,000, for a Revised Total Not to
Exceed of $677,763; CEQA Status – Exempt under CEQA Guidelines Section 15308.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council approve and authorize the City Manager, or their
designee, to execute Amendment Number 4 to Contract C19174648A with VERTEXONE
SOFTWARE, LLC (Attachment A) for the existing WaterSmart Utilities customer portal to: (1)
extend the contract term by three (3) years, through August 12, 2029; and (2) increase the
contract not-to-exceed (NTE) amount by $140,000 for a revised total contract not-to-exceed
amount of $677,763 over the 10-year term.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The current contract with the Utilities water customer portal vendor, VERTEXONE SOFTWARE,
LLC (VertexOne), is set to expire on August 12, 2026. Staff is seeking Council approval to extend
the City’s contract for the WaterSmart portal by three (3) additional years to allow customers to
continue to access WaterSmart and to support planned improvements necessary for evolving
state reporting requirements.
The WaterSmart customer portal provides customers with a convenient and secure way to
access water consumption information and provides personalized water conservation
recommendations, including monthly home water reports, leak alerts, and high-usage
notifications supported by Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) data, helping customers
make informed decisions about water use in support of the City’s conservation goals.
Extending the VertexOne contract also aligns with the Smart Energy Water (SEW) extension for
MyCPAU (Staff Report #2601-
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58491https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/viewer/preview?id=0&type=8&uid=57638433-bec8-
4ca2-b8cc-6864be2c1d46), allowing both customer-facing portals that are connected through
Single Sign-On (SSO) to conclude at similar times, reducing administrative complexity and
supporting coordinated planning for future procurements and upgrades.
2).
BACKGROUND
ANALYSIS
1 Staff Report 2601-5849, March 23, 2026:
2 Staff Report 2304-1380, June 19, 2023:
https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=82408&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto&searchid=a8c392d4
-c7d5-4363-b6b2-43d3204d9e98&cr=1
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Integration and Operational Considerations: The WaterSmart portal is integrated with the
City’s critical business systems and workflows, including MyCPAU via Single Sign-On (SSO), and
the City’s billing system. These integrations provide customers with a seamless experience and
reduce operational risk associated with platform changes.
Summary Of Proposed Contract Terms
Staff recommends extending the current VertexOne contract by three years, increasing the
contract not-to-exceed amount by $140,000, and updating Exhibit C Compensation. This
amendment results in a revised total contract not-to-exceed amount of $677,763. Since
$169,301 remains under the current contract, only $140,000 is needed for the extension
period.
5.
Table 1: Amendment No. 4 Exhibit C Compensation
Annual Costs NTEs
Module/Functionality Year 8 Year 9 Year 10
VertexOne Digital Base $24,750 $25,492 $26,257
VXsmart $23,100 $23,793 $24,507
Home Water Reports Base $1,200 $1,236 $1,273
Home Water Reports Variable $274 $282 $291
SSO for End Customer Base $1,800 $1,854 $1,910
SSO for End Customer Variable $1,040 $1,071 $1,103
Transactional Fees - Estimated cost of all
transactional fees, plus contingency $22,000 $23,000 $24,072
Year 8 Sub Total $74,164
Year 9 Sub Total $76,728
Year 10 Sub Total $79,412
Total Cost - Year 8 – Year 10 NTE $230,304
5 Staff Report 2407-3199, February 10, 2025:
https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=83238&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto&searchid=de1bfff4-
9eb3-4679-b40e-8c28315f4e96
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FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
Approval of this amendment would increase the contract’s NTE by $140,000 to support the
three-year extension. Through the City’s cost-sharing agreement with Valley Water, Contract
S23185976, Valley Water will reimburse the City up to $200,000 per year for AMI-related
programs and home water reports. This reimbursement will fully fund the WaterSmart portal
through the cost-sharing agreement.
Funding for the first year of the extended term is available in the proposed FY 2027 Utilities
Department Water Fund budget. Funding for subsequent years is contingent upon Council
appropriation and approval of funds through the annual budget process.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
Palo Alto markets the WaterSmart program through the City’s websites, at community events,
via bill inserts, other social media, and newsletters.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Council’s approval of the attached agreement described in this staff report does not meet the
definition of a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), pursuant to the
California Public Resources Code Section 21065, because it is not an activity that will cause a
direct physical change in the environment. In the alternative, Council’s approval of this
agreement is exempt from review under CEQA Guidelines Section 15308, as an action taken for
the protection of the environment.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Contract C19174648A Amendment Number 4 with VERTEXONE SOFTWARE, LLC.
APPROVED BY:
Alan Kurotori, Director of Utilities
Staff: Linda Grand, Sustainability Programs Administrator
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Page 1 of 10
AMENDMENT NO. 4 TO CONTRACT NO. C19174648A
BETWEEN THE CITY OF PALO ALTO AND
VERTEXONE SOFTWARE, LLC (FKA WATERSMART SOFTWARE, INC.)
This Amendment No. 4 (this “Amendment”) to Contract No. C19174648A (the “Contract”
as defined below) is entered into as of March 11, 2026, by and between the CITY OF PALO ALTO,
a California chartered municipal corporation (“CITY”), and VERTEXONE SOFTWARE, LLC, a
Delaware limited liability company, located at 1321 Upland Drive, Suite 8389, Houston, TX 77043
(“CONSULTANT”). CITY and CONSULTANT are referred to collectively as the “Parties” in this
Amendment.
R E C I T A L S
A. The Contract (as defined below) was entered into by and between the Parties
hereto for the provision of providing hosted software services, program administration, and
support, for an online water efficiency platform, as detailed therein.
B. The Parties entered into Amendment No. 1 on March 1, 2022, to update the
effective launch date, revise Task 1.2 of the Scope of Services, and clarify compensation.
C. The Parties entered into Amendment No. 2 on August 12, 2024, to extend the
contract term by six months, from August 12, 2024, to February 12, 2025.
D. The Parties entered into Amendment 3 on February 10, 2025, to extend the term
by one year and six months, from February 12, 2025, to August 12, 2026, update the Scope of
Services, and amend compensation terms without increasing the total Not-to-Exceed
Compensation.
E. The Parties now wish to amend the Contract in order to increase compensation
by One Hundred Forty Thousand Dollars ($140,000) from Five Hundred Thirty-Seven Thousand
Seven Hundred Sixty-Three dollars ($537,763) to a new total not to exceed Six Hundred Seventy-
Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Sixty-Three Dollars ($677,763), and to extend the term until
August 12, 2029, as detailed herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the covenants, terms, conditions, and provisions
of this Amendment, the Parties agree:
SECTION 1. Definitions. The following definitions shall apply to this Amendment:
a. Contract. The term “Contract” shall mean Contract No. C19174648A
between CONSULTANT and CITY, dated August 12, 2019, as amended by:
Amendment No. 1, dated March 1, 2022
Item 6
Attachment A - Contract
C19174648A Amendment
Number 4 with VERTEXONE
SOFTWARE, LLC.
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Vers.: Aug. 5, 2019
Page 2 of 10
Amendment No. 2, dated August 12, 2024
Amendment No. 3, dated February 10, 2025
b. Other Terms. Capitalized terms used and not defined in this Amendment
shall have the meanings assigned to such terms in the Contract.
SECTION 2. Section 2. “TERM" of the Contract is hereby amended to read as follows:
“SECTION 2. TERM. The term of this Agreement shall be from the date of its full execution
through, August 12, 2029, unless terminated earlier pursuant to Section 19 of this Agreement.”
SECTION 3. Section 4. “NOT TO EXCEED COMPENSATION” of the Contract is hereby
amended to read as follows:
“SECTION 4. NOT TO EXCEED COMPENSATION. The compensation to be paid to
CONSULTANT for performance of the Services shall be based on the compensation structure
detailed in Exhibit C, entitled “COMPENSATION,” including any reimbursable expenses
specified therein, and the maximum total compensation shall not exceed Six Hundred Seventy-
Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Sixty-Three Dollars ($677,763). The hourly schedule of rates, if
applicable, is set out in Exhibit C-1, entitled “SCHEDULE OF RATES.” Any work performed or
expenses incurred for which payment would result in a total exceeding the maximum
compensation set forth in this Section 4 shall be at no cost
to the CITY.”
SECTION 4. The following exhibit(s) to the Contract is/are hereby amended or added, as
indicated below, to read as set forth in the attachment(s) to this Amendment, which is/are
hereby incorporated in full into this Amendment and into the Contract by this reference:
a. Exhibit “C” entitled “COMPENSATION, AMENDMENT NO. 4”, AMENDED
REPLACES PREVIOUS.
SECTION 5. Legal Effect. Except as modified by this Amendment, all other provisions of
the Contract, including any exhibits thereto, shall remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 6. Incorporation of Recitals. The recitals set forth above are terms of this
Amendment and are fully incorporated herein by this reference.
(SIGNATURE BLOCK FOLLOWS ON THE NEXT PAGE.)
Item 6
Attachment A - Contract
C19174648A Amendment
Number 4 with VERTEXONE
SOFTWARE, LLC.
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Vers.: Aug. 5, 2019
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SIGNATURES OF THE PARTIES
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have by their duly authorized representatives
executed this Amendment effective as of the date first above written.
CITY OF PALO ALTO
_____________________________
City Manager
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_____________________________
City Attorney or Designee
VERTEXONE SOFTWARE, LLC
By:_______________________________
Name:___ _________
Title:_____________________________
By:________________________________
Name:____ ________
Title:______________________________
Attachments:
EXHIBIT “C” entitled “COMPENSATION, AMENDMENT NO. 4” (AMENDED, REPLACES
PREVIOUS)
Item 6
Attachment A - Contract
C19174648A Amendment
Number 4 with VERTEXONE
SOFTWARE, LLC.
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Vers.: Aug. 5, 2019
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EXHIBIT “C” COMPENSATION,
AMENDMENT NO. 4
(AMENDED, REPLACES PREVIOUS)
The CITY agrees to compensate the CONSULTANT for professional services performed in
accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement, and as set forth in the budget
schedule below. Compensation shall be calculated based on the task-based rate schedule
shown below in Table C-1 up to the not to exceed budget amount for each task set forth
below.
CONSULTANT shall perform the tasks and categories of work as outlined and budgeted
below. The CITY’s Project Manager may approve in writing the transfer of budget amounts
between any of the tasks or categories listed below provided the total compensation for
Basic Services, and the total compensation for Additional Services do not exceed the
amounts set forth in Section 4 of this Agreement.
REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES
There are no reimbursable expenses under this Agreement.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
The CONSULTANT shall provide additional services only by advanced, written authorization
from the CITY. The CONSULTANT, at the CITY’s project manager’s request, shall submit a
detailed written proposal including a description of the scope of services, schedule, level of
effort, and CONSULTANT’s proposed maximum compensation, , for such services. The
additional services scope, schedule and maximum compensation shall be negotiated and
agreed to in writing by the CITY’s Project Manager and CONSULTANT prior to
commencement of the services. Payment for additional services is subject to all
requirements and restrictions in this Agreement.
Table C-1: Anticipated Quarterly Cost Structure*
*CONSULTANT will invoice CITY upon completion of each task at the close of each quarter
for all costs with exception of the Initialization fee, which is billable upon contract execution.
No payment shall be due until each task is completed, or, in the case of reports, until the
report is delivered.
Payment for quarterly license shall commence in the quarter that the Launch Effective Date
occurs. CONSULTANT and CITY agree that CONSULTANT will apply a $9,375 credit to each of
the first and second quarterly license payments. All other payments will be made in
accordance with Exhibit C. No further compensation will be made for services provided prior
to this Amendment.
Cost Structure - Years 1-5:
Item 6
Attachment A - Contract
C19174648A Amendment
Number 4 with VERTEXONE
SOFTWARE, LLC.
Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 24 of 212
Vers.: Aug. 5, 2019
Page 5 of 10
Component Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Totals
Year 1
Integration $5,500
Initialization $20,000
Welcome Letters $16,875
Training $1,500
Reports $12,500 $12,500 $12,500
License $9,375 $9,375 $9,375 $9,375 $138,875
Year 2
Reports $12,500 $12,500 $12,500 $12,500
License $9,375 $9,375 $9,375 $9,375 $87,500
Year 3
Reports $12,500 $12,500 $12,500 $12,500
License $9,375 $9,375 $9,375 $9,375 $87,500
Year 4
Reports $12,500 $12,500 $12,500 $12,500
License $9,375 $9,375 $9,375 $9,375 $87,500
Year 5
Reports $12,500 $12,500 $12,500 $12,500
License $9,375 $9,375 $9,375 $9,375 $87,500
Sub-Total $488,875
Addition
al
Service
$48,888
Item 6
Attachment A - Contract
C19174648A Amendment
Number 4 with VERTEXONE
SOFTWARE, LLC.
Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 25 of 212
Vers.: Aug. 5, 2019
Page 6 of 10
s
Total
$537,763
Services Billed in Years 1-6:
Years Total Amount Spent
Year 1 $58,750
Year 2 $28,125
Year 3 $0
Year 4 $63,500
Year 5 $87,500
Year 6 (Q1-Q2) $43,750
Total $281,625
Cost Structure - Years 6-7:
Module/Functionality Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Estimated Total Annual
Cost Years 6-7
VertexOne Digital Base $4,500 $4,500 $4,500 $4,500 $18,000
VXsmart - $0.80 x 21,000
(total # of accounts
$4,200 $4,200 $4,200 $4,200 $16,800
Home Water Reports Base $240 $240 $240 $240 $960
Home Water Reports
Variable - $0.01280 for
each account receiving
reports (est. 15,625)
$50 $50 $50 $50 $200
SSO for End Customer Base $3,250 $3,250 $3,250 $3,250 $13,000
SSO for End Customer
Variable - $0.03207 for
each account (est. 21,000)
$169 $169 $169 $169 $674
Transactional Fees - $11,779 $11,799 $11,799 $11,799 $47,116
Item 6
Attachment A - Contract
C19174648A Amendment
Number 4 with VERTEXONE
SOFTWARE, LLC.
Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 10 Packet Pg. 26 of 212
Vers.: Aug. 5, 2019
Page 7 of 10
Estimated cost of all
transactional fees, plus a
buffer
Year 6 Q3 and Q4 Sub Total (Estimated annual cost minus services
billed Q1 and Q2)
$53,000
Year 7 Sub Total $96,750
Additional Services Budget Remaining $42,888
Estimated Total Cost - Year 6, Q3 – Year 7, Q4 $192,638
Total Billed during Contract Years 1-6,Q2 $281,625
Total Contract Not to Exceed (Amend No. 3) $537,763
Services Billed from Year 6, Q3 through Year 7, Q3:
Years Total Amount Spent
Year 6 (Q3 and Q4) $40,333
Year 7 (Q1-Q3) $46,504
Total $86,837
Cost Structure - Years 8-10:
Module/Functionality Annual Cost Year 8
NTE
Annual Cost Year 9
NTE
Annual Cost Year
10 NTE
VertexOne Digital Base $24,750 $25,492 $26,257
VXsmart $23,100 $23,793 $24,507
Home Water Reports
Base
$1,200 $1,236 $1,273
Home Water Reports
Variable – (est. 15,578
accounts receiving
reports)
$274
$282 $291
SSO for End Customer
Base
$1,800 $1,854 $1,910
Item 6
Attachment A - Contract
C19174648A Amendment
Number 4 with VERTEXONE
SOFTWARE, LLC.
Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 11 Packet Pg. 27 of 212
Vers.: Aug. 5, 2019
Page 8 of 10
SSO for End Customer
Variable
$1,040 $1,071 $1,103
Transactional Fees -
Estimated cost of all
transactional fees, plus a
buffer
$22,000 $23,000 $24,072
Total Annual Costs Year 8 – Year 10
Year 8 Sub Total $74,164
Year 9 Sub Total $76,728
Year 10 Sub Total $79,412
Total Cost - Year 8 – Year 10 NTE $230,304
Total Billed during Contract Years 1-7,Q3 $386,462
Cost Year 7, Q4 NTE Sub Total $23,109
Cost Year 8 – 10 NTE Sub Total $230,304
Total Contract Not to Exceed $677,763
Transactional Fees Pricing
Transactional fees include the following: outbound message composition fee, document archival
fee, pass through & management fees.
Transactional Fee Pricing
Composition Fee $0.005/communication
Document Archival $0.005/communication
SMS Pass Through $0.032/SMS
Print Pass Through $0.52/Printed Document
The pass through & management fee is only incurred if the outbound communication channel is
Letter, SMS and/or voice channels. Emails do not incur a Pass Through & Management fee.
Letters may not incur the pass through & management fee if the CITY is responsible for print
services.
Item 6
Attachment A - Contract
C19174648A Amendment
Number 4 with VERTEXONE
SOFTWARE, LLC.
Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 12 Packet Pg. 28 of 212
Vers.: Aug. 5, 2019
Page 9 of 10
The table below provides more clarity around when the various transactional fees are charged.
Transactional Fees by Channel
Channel Composition Fee Document Archival
Fee
Pass Through &
Management Fee1
Email X X
SMS X X X
Print X X X
Voice X X
1Pass through fee from vendor, plus CONSULTANT administration charge
Transactional Fees Scenarios
Item Composition Fee Document
Archival Fee
Pass Through &
Management
Fee
1 Form Submission X
2 Home Water Reports X X X
3 Ad Hoc Utility
Communication (City Staff
Triggered Outbound
Communication)
X X X
4 Welcome Letters, Portal
Nudge Letters, & Survey
Letters
X X X
5 Leak Alerts (AMI & Non-
AMI)
X X X
6 Usage Notifications
(Unplanned Use, High Use)
X X X
7 Bill Notifications (Bill X X X
Item 6
Attachment A - Contract
C19174648A Amendment
Number 4 with VERTEXONE
SOFTWARE, LLC.
Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 13 Packet Pg. 29 of 212
Vers.: Aug. 5, 2019
Page 10 of 10
Reminder, Bill Ready, Bill
Forecast)1
8 Outage Notifications X X X
*Fee pricing is based on the total number of communications with end customers. CONSULTANT
will provide monthly invoice tracking to ensure spending will not meet the budget threshold
without written approval from the CITY.*
Item 6
Attachment A - Contract
C19174648A Amendment
Number 4 with VERTEXONE
SOFTWARE, LLC.
Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 14 Packet Pg. 30 of 212
Certificate Of Completion
Envelope Id: 2380BBBC-C952-4F2A-9977-E3BADFE707E5 Status: Completed
Subject: Complete with Docusign: C19174648A Amendment 4 final.pdf, C19174648A Amendment 4 revised final ...
Source Envelope:
Document Pages: 10 Signatures: 2 Envelope Originator:
Certificate Pages: 2 Initials: 0 Ann Marie Romero
AutoNav: Enabled
EnvelopeId Stamping: Enabled
Time Zone: (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada)
250 Hamilton Ave
Palo Alto , CA 94301
annmarie.romero@paloalto.gov
IP Address: 170.85.54.117
Record Tracking
Status: Original
4/14/2026 11:22:30 AM
Holder: Ann Marie Romero
annmarie.romero@paloalto.gov
Location: DocuSign
Security Appliance Status: Connected Pool: StateLocal
Signer Events Signature Timestamp
Keith Foerster
Keith.Foerster@vertexone.ai
CFO
Security Level: Email, Account Authentication
(None)Signature Adoption: Uploaded Signature Image
Using IP Address: 24.162.82.191
Sent: 4/17/2026 8:23:50 AM
Viewed: 4/17/2026 2:15:28 PM
Signed: 4/17/2026 2:15:51 PM
Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure:
Not Offered via Docusign
Tracey Brown
tracey.brown@vertexone.ai
CEO
Security Level: Email, Account Authentication
(None)Signature Adoption: Pre-selected Style
Using IP Address: 2600:387:15:4e12::5
Signed using mobile
Sent: 4/17/2026 2:15:53 PM
Resent: 4/20/2026 10:42:49 AM
Viewed: 4/20/2026 2:51:38 PM
Signed: 4/20/2026 2:52:09 PM
Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure:
Not Offered via Docusign
In Person Signer Events Signature Timestamp
Editor Delivery Events Status Timestamp
Agent Delivery Events Status Timestamp
Intermediary Delivery Events Status Timestamp
Certified Delivery Events Status Timestamp
Carbon Copy Events Status Timestamp
Witness Events Signature Timestamp
Notary Events Signature Timestamp
Envelope Summary Events Status Timestamps
Envelope Sent Hashed/Encrypted 4/14/2026 11:26:20 AM
Envelope Updated Security Checked 4/14/2026 11:38:25 AM
Item 6
Attachment A - Contract
C19174648A Amendment
Number 4 with VERTEXONE
SOFTWARE, LLC.
Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 15 Packet Pg. 31 of 212
Envelope Summary Events Status Timestamps
Envelope Updated Security Checked 4/14/2026 11:38:25 AM
Envelope Updated Security Checked 4/14/2026 11:38:25 AM
Envelope Updated Security Checked 4/14/2026 12:50:04 PM
Envelope Updated Security Checked 4/14/2026 12:50:04 PM
Envelope Updated Security Checked 4/14/2026 12:50:04 PM
Envelope Updated Security Checked 4/16/2026 1:57:55 PM
Envelope Updated Security Checked 4/16/2026 1:57:55 PM
Envelope Updated Security Checked 4/16/2026 1:57:55 PM
Envelope Updated Security Checked 4/16/2026 1:57:55 PM
Envelope Updated Security Checked 4/16/2026 1:57:55 PM
Envelope Updated Security Checked 4/20/2026 10:42:47 AM
Envelope Updated Security Checked 4/20/2026 10:42:47 AM
Envelope Updated Security Checked 4/20/2026 10:42:47 AM
Certified Delivered Security Checked 4/20/2026 2:51:38 PM
Signing Complete Security Checked 4/20/2026 2:52:09 PM
Completed Security Checked 4/20/2026 2:52:09 PM
Payment Events Status Timestamps
Item 6
Attachment A - Contract
C19174648A Amendment
Number 4 with VERTEXONE
SOFTWARE, LLC.
Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 16 Packet Pg. 32 of 212
CITY COUNCIL
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: ACTION ITEMS
Lead Department: Planning and Development Services
Meeting Date: May 11, 2026
Report #: 2603-6070
TITLE
PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI-JUDICIAL. 3781 El Camino Real [24PLN-00161]: Request for Approval
of Major Architectural Review Application to Merge Four Existing Parcels to Create a 63,025
Square-Foot Parcel and to Construct a Seven-Story, Multi-Family Residential Housing
Development Project with 183 Units. Thirteen Percent of The Base Units Would be Provided at
a Rate Affordable to Low Income. The Project is Proposed in Accordance with Builder’s Remedy
(California Government Code Section 65589.5(d)(5)). A Senate Bill 330 Pre-Application was Filed
on February 15, 2024. CEQA Status: Exempt Pursuant to Assembly Bill 130 (Public Resources
Code Section 21080.66).
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that City Council:
1. Consider the project exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in
accordance with Assembly Bill (AB) 130 (Public Resources Code Section 21080.66); and
2. Approve the Major Architectural Review application based on findings and subject to
conditions of approval in the Draft Record of Land Use Action (RLUA) in Attachment B.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The proposed residential project includes 183 rental units, thirteen percent of the base units of
1(23 units total) would be provided at a rate affordable to low-income households or below,
with two levels of above ground parking. The project includes demolition of 14 residential
rental units as well as approximately 10,100 square feet of commercial floor area across four
existing parcels located at 3727-3737 & 3773-3783 El Camino Real, 378-400 Madeline Court,
and 388 Curtner Avenue. These four parcels would be merged through a Certificate of
Compliance to create a single parcel for the proposed development.
1 Inclusionary percentage is based on the pre-density bonus count of 177 units.
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The applicant filed a compliant pre-application in accordance with Senate Bill (SB) 330 on
February 15, 2024 (24PLN-00048). Therefore, the project analysis is based on the applicable
standards at the time the compliant SB 330 pre-application was submitted. In addition, the
project is considered a “Builder’s Remedy project” as defined in the recently adopted AB 1893.
Accordingly, the project may not be denied on the basis of inconsistency with the Zoning
Ordinance or Comprehensive Plan land use designation. The project is further afforded
numerous protections as detailed below.
BACKGROUND
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Code Section 65589.5(d)(5), commonly known as Builder's Remedy, and qualifies for additional
protections as a "Builder's Remedy 2.0 project" under AB 1893. The applicant's full project
description, including a list of waivers requested under State Density Bonus Law, is provided in
Attachment F. As discussed in greater detail in this report, provided the project is designed in
compliance with all relevant objective standards, the City may not impose conditions that
would prevent construction of the project as proposed, even after the application of density
bonus incentives, concessions, and waivers.
Architectural Review – Major (AR): The process for evaluating this type of application is
set forth in Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) Section 18.77.070. AR applications are
reviewed by the ARB and recommendations are forwarded to the Planning and
Development Services Director for action within five business days of the Board’s
recommendation. Action by the Director is appealable to the City Council if filed within
14 days of the decision. The Director may instead forward a project directly to City
Council for final action in accordance with PAMC Section 18.40.180. AR projects are
evaluated against specific findings. All findings must be made in the affirmative to
approve the project. Failure to make any one finding requires project redesign or denial.
The findings to approve an AR application are provided in Attachment B.
Housing Accountability Act (Government Code 65589.5): The project constitutes a
“housing development project,” as well as “housing for very low, low-, or moderate
income households” under the Housing Accountability Act. The Housing Accountability
Act Section 65589.5(d) states that a city cannot deny such a project or impose
conditions of approval that would render it infeasible unless it makes specified findings.
Among those findings are: that the project would have a specific, adverse impact upon
the public health or safety that cannot be mitigated. “Specific, adverse impact” means
“a significant, quantifiable, direct, and unavoidable impact, based on objective,
identified, written public health or safety standards, policies, or conditions as they
existed” at the time of the preliminary application.
Because the project is a “Builder’s Remedy 2.0 project,” under AB 1893, the City is
further limited to only enforcing those objective standards that exist in a zone district or
land use designation that allows the density requested. If there are no such zoning
districts or general plan designations in the City, then the applicant may identify any City
standards that facilitate the project and only those standards shall apply. If the project
meets these identified standards, the City cannot impose conditions of approval that
preclude the project from being constructed as proposed by the applicant.
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Because the project is a “Builder’s Remedy 2.0 project,” under AB 1893, the “base density” for
purposes of State Density Bonus Law shall be the maximum density permitted for Builder’s
Remedy projects (e.g. three times the density permitted in the zoning code or general plan).
The project applicant is also able to utilize incentives, concessions, and waivers under State
Density Bonus Law when demonstrating compliance with the enforceable standards.
Architectural Review Board
On January 15, 2026, the ARB recommended approval of the project (3-0) with Vice Chair
Adcock and Board Member Hirsch absent. The ARB also recommended that City Council
consider the following conditions of approval for the project:
Add third elevator to the northeast wing of the structure.
Clear path of travel within bike room with the addition of a door to the parking garage.
Add an off-street loading space.
Improve the parking garage screening to neighbors.
Recess the entrance along El Camino Real to ensure an 8-foot clearance when doors are
open.
Expand 3rd-floor balconies, where possible.
Streamline balconies along El Camino Real with different materials to reduce
transparency.
Reduce the visual massing of the structure through architectural expertise with refined
facade detailing, and upper story stepbacks, potentially moving the top floor back by 4
feet.
Provide detailed courtyard sections explaining the spa and plantings.
ANALYSIS
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Other portions of the project site are designated multiple-family, where the permitted number
of housing units varies by area, depending on existing land use, proximity to major streets and
public transit, distance to shopping and environmental problems. Net densities range from 8 to
90 persons per acre (8 to 40 units). Density should be on the lower end of the scale next to
single-family residential areas. However, densities higher than what is permitted may be
allowed where measurable community benefits will be derived, services and facilities are
available, and the net effect will be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
Housing Element Consistency
The project site was not identified as a Housing Inventory Site in the adopted Housing Element.
However, the proposed development would provide 169 net new units units, including 23 units
at a rate affordable to low-income, which would count toward the City’s Regional Housing
Needs Allocation (RHNA). These units would help advance Housing Element implementation by
contributing housing in areas outside the inventory. The project would also help offset
shortfalls if identified inventory sites are not developed to their assumed capacity or
timeframe.
El Camino Real Design Guidelines Consistency
The project is also subject to the El Camino Design Guidelines and South El Camino Design
Guidelines to the extent that these guidelines include objective standards. The design
guidelines are intended to direct the project design process toward solutions that, given site
conditions and the requirements of the development program, best meet City goals and
community values and expectations. Notable recommendations include landscaping buffers,
screening of mechanical equipment and parking areas, pedestrian oriented designs in the CN
district, minimizing the number of driveways, limiting building colors to no more than three
primary colors, and defining corner elements. As proposed, the project is generally consistent
with these guidelines, although only objective standards may be applied to the project. Where
the guidelines encourage specific requirements such as colors and defining corner elements,
the project complies with the related objective standards set forth under PAMC Chapter 18.24.
Although the project does not include a ground floor commercial use and, accordingly, does not
provide ground floor glazing/transparency, this deviation is permitted under the builder’s
remedy.
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Zoning Compliance
Because the site area is comprised of four lots, there are two different zoning designations
across these lots, including portions zoned CN and RM-30. The project does not propose to
rezone these parcels for consistency across the resulting parcel. However, the site is located
within the El Camino Real Focus Area. The El Camino Real Focus Area modifies and replaces
some of the development standards provided in base zone districts and applicable combining
district regulations for housing development projects. In some instances, the El Camino Real
Focus Area standards refer to the governing base district regulations. Therefore, Attachment C
includes a summary of the project’s consistency with the El Camino Real Focus Area standards
as it would apply to each zone district on the site. Additionally, Attachment D includes a
summary of the project’s consistency with the objective design standards set forth in PAMC
Chapter 18.24.
Multi-Modal Access
Valley Transit Authority (VTA) bus line 22 runs along El Camino Real with a bus stop near the far
southern corner of the project site. The project is located approximately 1.2 miles from the
California Avenue Caltrain Station and fronts El Camino Real. California Department of
Transportation recently installed Class III and Class IV bicycle facilities along El Camino Real
adjacent to the project frontage, further enhancing multimodal access for cyclists. Vehicular
access to the project site is provided from Curtner Avenue, consistent with the current parcels.
The project includes a single vehicular access where there are two.
Parking and Loading
The project includes 196 vehicle parking spaces, 36 of which would be tandem, and six
motorcycle parking spaces, exceeding the 183 vehicle parking spaces required under the Zoning
Code (pursuant to the focus area standards). Of the resident-assigned spaces, 151 would be
electric vehicle (EV)-capable, including one accessible EV space and one van-accessible EV
space, with 39 non-EV spaces also provided. The project is required to provide 183 EV-ready
spaces in compliance with the California Green Building Code (CalGreen). Therefore, a condition
of approval has been added to require that parking comply with CalGreen requirements. Bicycle
parking is provided within the parking garage near the El Camino Real frontage and includes
144 long-term bicycle spaces. An additional four short-term bicycle spaces are proposed to be
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located within the front setback along El Camino Real. The Zoning Code requires 183 total
bicycle spaces as well as 18 short-term spaces, while CalGreen requires approximately 23 short-
term spaces. The conditions of approval require the applicant to provide short-term bicycle
parking in conformance with CalGreen code requirements. Title 8 Consistency (Trees)
The project site has a total of 41 existing trees representing 14 species that were assessed in
the Preliminary Arborist Report dated July 11, 2024, by HortScience, Bartlett Consulting. Of the
41 trees documented, 31 trees are recommended to be removed, only one of which is
protected, a bronze loquat that is within the foundation footprint along the Curtner Avenue
frontage. A total of 12 trees would be preserved, including all trees within the El Camino Real
right-of-way and all trees on the neighboring properties. The project proposes a total of 72 new
trees along property lines, as street trees, and within open space areas. Tree replacement
mitigation values for the project are further detailed in the Tree Disposition Table (L-5.4) of the
plan set, see Attachment G.
FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
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plus the applicable public art fee. These fees are required to either be paid at building permit
issuance or, with the recordation of a lien on the property, may be deferred until occupancy.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
ATTACHMENTS
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Attachment G: Project Plans
APPROVED BY:
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Attachment A Location Map
3781 El Camino Real
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DRAFT ACTION NO. 2026-__
On _________, 2026, the City Council of the City of Palo Alto (“City Council”) approved a
Major Architectural Review application for development of 183 residential rental units (“the
project”). In approving the application, Council makes the following findings, determinations,
and declarations:
SECTION 1. Background.
A. On February 15, 2024, Camino Real Development LLC & Kendall Investors,
LLC filed a compliant pre-application in accordance with Senate Bill (SB) 330 and with California
Government Code Section 65589.5(d)(5) (also known as Builder’s Remedy).
B. On June 10, 2024, Camino Real Development LLC & Kendall Investors filed an
Architectural Review application (24PLN-00161) for construction of a 183 rental unit residential
project to merge four existing lots to create a single resulting 63,025-square-foot parcel (1.49
acres). The project includes 177 base units and 6 density bonus units, for a total of 183 units, as
well as the following density bonus waivers and concessions in accordance with State Density
Bonus Law, and additional protections as a “builder’s remedy project,” under AB 1893:
Waiver 1: Build-to-lines (90% of frontage built to setbacks where a maximum
50% along El Camino Real is required)
Waiver 2: Upper Story Step Back (None proposed where a 10-foot step-back
above 55 feet in height is required)
Waiver 3: Lot Coverage (83% where maximum 80% is allowed)
Waiver 4: Front setback (15 feet along Curtner Avenue, minimum 20 feet is
required)
Waiver 5: Rear and Side Daylight Plane (None provided where 10 feet at lot
line then 45-degree angle is required)
Waiver 6: Housing typologies (one to two-acre lots are required to provide a
minimum of two housing types)
Waiver 7: Street Trees (9 trees provided, required 16 trees)
C. The project site is comprised of four existing lots: APN No. 132-41-084,
approximately 9,160 square feet, developed with mixed-use; APN No. 132-41-083,
approximately 18,376 square feet, developed with a commercial use; APN No. 132-41-020,
approximately 29,618 square feet, developed with a multi-family residential use; APN No. 132-
41-019, approximately 5,627 square feet, developed with a multi-family residential use.
Adjacent uses include a mix of commercial and low-intensity, one-story and two-story buildings,
as well as low density residential uses surrounded by surface parking.
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D. Following staff review, the Architectural Review Board held a duly noticed
public hearing to review the Major Architectural Review application on January 15, 2026, and
recommended approval to City Council.
E. On ___________, 2026 the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing at
which evidence was considered, and all persons were afforded an opportunity to be heard in
accordance with the City Council’s policies and procedures.
SECTION 2. Environmental Review. The City, as the lead agency for the Project, has determined
the project is exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with AB
130 [Public Resources Code section 21080.66]. Documentation to support the streamlined
review is available as part of the public record on file with the Planning and Development
Services Division.
SECTION 3. Architectural Review Findings. In order to make a recommendation of approval, the
project must comply with the following Findings for Architectural Review as required in Chapter
18.76.020 of the PAMC.
1.The design is consistent with applicable provisions of the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan,
Zoning Code, coordinated area plans (including compatibility requirements), and any
relevant design guides.
A summary of the project’s consistency with the Comprehensive Plan is provided in this
table. Because the project is a “builder’s remedy project,” as defined in Gov. Code
section 65589.5(h)(11), and in accordance with Gov. Code section 65589.5(f)(6)(A), the
project is required to comply only with objective, quantifiable, written development
standards, conditions, and policies that would have applied to the project had it been
proposed on a site with a general plan designation and zoning classification that allow
the density and unit type proposed by the applicant. Moreover, in accordance with Gov.
Code section 65589.5(f)(6)(D)(iii), a project that complies with such objective standards,
conditions, and policies “shall be deemed consistent, compliant, and in conformity with
an applicable plan, program, policy, ordinance, standard, requirement, redevelopment
plan and implementing instruments, or other similar provision for all purposes.”
Comp Plan Goals and Policies How project adheres or does not adhere to
Comp Plan
The Comprehensive Plan land use designation
for the site is Neighborhood Commercial (CN)
and Multiple-Family Residential (MF).
Consistent with the Comprehensive Plan’s
encouragement of housing near transit
centers, higher density multi-family housing
may be allowed in specific locations in the
Neighborhood Commercial land use
designation. The project is located along a
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high-quality transit corridor and the portions
of the project site that are within these land
use designations are identified as Housing
Inventory Sites under the adopted Housing
Element. Therefore, the proposed use multi-
family residential use is consistent with these
Comprehensive Plan land use designations.
Housing Element
Policy 4.3 Implement development standards,
objective design standards, and architectural
and green building standards that encourage
new high-quality rental and ownership
housing.
The project complies with the implemented
standards except where requests for waivers
or concessions in accordance with state law is
provided. The project provides the necessary
upgrades to infrastructure on the site to
provide new high-quality rental units. The
project complies with all required green
building requirements in accordance with
state law and the city’s local reach code.
Land Use and Community Design
Goal L-1 A compact and resilient city providing
residents and visitors with attractive
neighborhoods, work places, shopping
districts, public facilities and open spaces.
The project redevelops existing developed
parcels and provides an attractive
development that is generally consistent with
the City’s design criteria.
Policy L-1.3: Infill development in the urban
service area should be compatible with its
surroundings and the overall scale and
character of the city to ensure a compact,
efficient development pattern.
The project is an urban infill development
proposal in the urban service area of the city.
Policy L-1.4: Commit to creating an inventory
of below market rate housing for purchase
and rental.
The proposed residential project includes 183
rental units, and 13 percent of the base 177
units (excluding density bonus units) would be
provided at a rate affordable to low-income
households or below. This would add 23 low
income rental units to the City’s BMR housing
stock.
Goal L-2 An enhanced sense of “community”
with development designed to foster public
life, meet citywide needs and embrace the
principles of sustainability.
The project is designed to comply with
CALGreen Tier 2 requirements that
incorporate sustainable design, construction,
and operational requirements to reduce
energy and water operational costs and
increase indoor air quality for building owners
and occupants.
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Policy L-2.2 Enhance connections between
commercial and mixed use centers and the
surrounding residential neighborhoods by
promoting walkable and bikeable connections
and a diverse range of retail and services that
caters to the daily needs of residents.
The project site is located on and adjacent to
El Camino Real, a local serving and regional
serving corridor, defined by a mix of
commercial uses and housing. Caltrans
recently installed Class III and Class IV bike
lanes, which run along the project’s frontage
on El Camino Real. Residents would be able to
utilize these connections to other surrounding
areas.
Goal L-6: Well-designed buildings that create
coherent development patterns and enhance
city streets.
The project frontage along El Camino Real
provides a sidewalk and retains the existing
four street trees. Alongside Curtner Avenue,
the project proposes five new street trees for
an inviting streetscape. The project includes
high quality materials such as brick and stucco
that aid in creating a cohesive design.
Policy L-9.2 Encourage development that
creatively integrates parking into the project,
including by locating it behind buildings or
underground wherever possible, or by
providing for shared use of parking areas.
Encourage other alternatives to surface
parking lots that minimize the amount of land
devoted to parking while still maintaining safe
streets, street trees, a vibrant local economy
and sufficient parking to meet demand.
Parking would be screened behind the first
floor amenity spaces alongside El Camino Real
with the parking garage entrance located
along Curtner Avenue. Further, 196 parking
spaces would be provided on-site exceeding
the El Camino Real focus area parking
requirements.
Transportation Element
Policy T-3.7 Encourage pedestrian-friendly
design features such as sidewalks, street trees,
on-street parking, gathering spaces, gardens,
outdoor furniture, art and interesting
architectural details.
The project includes direct connections to the
sidewalk that help to activate the frontage
along El Camino Real in addition to new street
trees along Curtner Avenue.
Policy T-3.9 Support citywide sustainability
efforts by preserving and enhancing the tree
canopy where feasible within the public right-
of-way, consistent with the Urban Forest
Management Plan, as amended.
The project meets the tree canopy
replacement requirements through on-site
plantings. The project includes removal of 31
trees and replaces with 72 trees, which are
proposed to be located along property lines,
in the right of way, and within open space
areas.
The South El Camino Real Design Guidelines are applicable to the project, to the extent
that the standards are objective, and the site is located within the Triangle Area
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Pedestrian Node. The project is consistent with the Guidelines, below is an analysis of
the applicable guidelines:
3.1.1 Effective Sidewalk Width:
Create a 12-foot effective sidewalk width
along El Camino Real
The project proposes a 12-foot effective
sidewalk width.
3.1.2 Sidewalk Setback Design:
The design of the sidewalk setback should
create an urban “downtown” character.
The proposed sidewalk setback includes
areas for short-term bicycle parking and
architectural wall lights.
3.1.3 Build to lines:
Buildings should be built up to the sidewalk
to reinforce the definition and importance of
the street.
The project provides 90% built to the setback
while still providing the effective 12-foot
sidewalk width.
3.1.5 Minimum Height:
Buildings should have a minimum height of
25 feet in order to provide presence along El
Camino Real.
The project is 82 feet in height to the
parapets.
3.3.1 Usable Amenities:
Landscape and hardscape features should
not just be visually appealing, but also
function as open space amenities to be used
and enjoyed.
The project includes outdoor seating areas,
dining areas, and three spa areas with one
cold plunge pool.
4.1.8 Expression of Use:
Building forms should be articulated as an
expression of the building use.
The project has been revised to add
additional definition to the two-story
residential entry area at the building’s
corner. The balconies also provide visible
private outdoor space, identifying the
residential uses.
4.2.1 Relationship of Entries to the Street:
Buildings should have entries directly
accessible and visible from El Camino Real.
The building has an entrance facing El
Camino Real and Leasing entrance facing
Curtner Avenue visible from El Camino Real.
4.3.6 Design Consistency on All Facades:
All exposed sides of a building should be
designed with the same level of care and
integrity.
All sides of the building use the same variety
of materials and level of detail. They are also
articulated for visual interest and to reduce
massing.
4.4.1 Amenities:
Building design should offer amenities to
users and the public such as protection from
the elements and places for people to gather
or retreat.
The project provides a number of public and
private gathering areas.
4.5.1 Flat Roofs and Parapets Encouraged.
Flat roofs with parapets are strongly
encouraged.
The proposed building has a flat roof with
parapet design.
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4.8.1 Mix of Materials:
Juxtaposition of contrasting materials can
create interest when carefully integrated.
This project includes stucco, brick, glass,
wood-like panel soffits, and metal in a
composed design.
2.The project has a unified and coherent design, that:
a.creates an internal sense of order and desirable environment for occupants,
visitors, and the general community,
b.preserves, respects and integrates existing natural features that contribute
positively to the site and the historic character including historic resources of the
area when relevant,
c.is consistent with the context-based design criteria of the applicable zone
district,
d.provides harmonious transitions in scale, mass and character to adjacent land
uses and land use designations,
e.enhances living conditions on the site (if it includes residential uses) and in
adjacent residential areas.
The project is consistent with Finding #2 because:
The project is comprised of various residential amenity spaces at the first floor, third floor, and
seventh floor and offers short-term bike racks for visitors and well as long-term bike lockers for
residents. There is pedestrian access from El Camino Real and Curtner Avenue to promote
walkability and connectivity. However, cars can only enter the garage on Curtner Avenue, as
required per the objective standards. The pedestrian walkways are paved with attractive
materials and landscaped. The project proposes to construct a building that is generally taller
than the immediately surrounding buildings. However, adjacent to the project site to the north,
there is another recently built residential building that is four stories in height.
The proposed project is consistent with the findings to provide high quality materials and
finishes in a neutral color palette. The building will have residential amenity spaces on the first
floor with a majority of those spaces utilizing glazing, which helps to engage the sidewalk.
While the project at 82 feet in height exceeds surrounding development, the project complies
with the height limits within the El Camino Real Focus Area and deviates from the objective
standards in a manner consistent with State law.
3.The design is of high aesthetic quality, using high quality,
integrated materials and appropriate construction techniques, and incorporating
textures, colors, and other details that are compatible with and enhance the surrounding
area.
The project is consistent with Finding #3 because:
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The project proposes a contemporary style that is recognizable along the El Camino Real
corridor overall and aligns with the recent residential development to the north of the project
site. The project uses materials such as stucco, brick, wood-like panel soffits, and metal railings
on the balconies and metal awnings. As conditioned, the stucco surfaces will be a smooth finish
texture. The proposed colors are neutral and are compatible with surrounding color schemes.
The design is functional, allowing for ease and safety of pedestrian and bicycle traffic
and providing for elements that support the building’s necessary operations
(e.g. convenient vehicle access to property and utilities, appropriate arrangement and
amount of open space and integrated signage, if applicable, etc.).
The landscape design complements and enhances the building design and its
surroundings, is appropriate to the site’s functions, and utilizes to the extent practical,
regional indigenous drought resistant plant material capable of providing desirable
habitat that can be appropriately maintained.
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6.The project incorporates design principles that achieve sustainability in areas related to
energy efficiency, water conservation, building materials, landscaping, and site
planning.
The project is consistent with Finding #6 because:
In accordance with the City’s Green Building Regulations, the project will satisfy the
requirements for CALGreen Mandatory + Tier 2. This is demonstrated on the GB sheets in the
plan set.
SECTION 4. Conditions of Approval Architectural Review.
Planning
1. CONFORMANCE WITH PLANS. Construction and development shall be in substantial
conformance with the approved plans entitled, "3781 El Camino Real – Major Architectural
Review” uploaded to the Palo Alto Online Permitting Services Citizen Portal on March 17,
2026, as modified by these conditions of approval.
2. BUILDING PERMIT. Apply for a building permit and meet any and all conditions provided in
this document. A copy of this cover letter and conditions of approval shall be printed on the
second page of the plans submitted for building permit.
3. BELOW MARKET RATE (BMR) HOUSING. This project is proposed as a Builder’s Remedy
project, as defined in AB 1893, and is providing thirteen percent of the proposed 177 base
units at prices affordable to lower income households. This also represents an alternative
means of compliance with the City’s inclusionary housing requirement stated in Palo Alto
Municipal Code Chapter 16.65. The applicant shall execute and record a BMR regulatory
agreement in a form satisfactory to the City Attorney. The project shall conform to the
approved regulatory agreement, which shall be recorded prior to issuance of building
permit or final map, whichever occurs first. All BMR units constructed under this condition
shall be in conformance with the City’s BMR Program rules and regulations, as modified by
the concession granted pursuant to State Density Bonus Law regarding unit distribution.
Failure to comply with the timing of this condition and any adopted BMR Program rules and
regulations shall not waive its later enforcement.
4. RENTER PROTECTIONS. The project is subject to the renter protection requirements set
forth in PAMC Section 9.68.060 for no fault evictions for rental properties with more than
10 units. This includes either rental fee waiver for the last month or relocation assistance as
detailed in the municipal code. Notification requirements in accordance with the code is
required. Documentation showing compliance with these code requirements must be
provided to the project planner prior to issuance of a demolition/deconstruction permit.
5. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS. All modifications to the approved project shall be submitted for
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review and approval prior to construction. If during the Building Permit review and
construction phase, the project is modified by the applicant, it is the responsibility of the
applicant to contact the Planning Division/project planner directly to obtain approval of the
project modification.
6. LANDSCAPE PLAN. Plantings shall be installed in accordance with the approved plan set
prior to occupancy and shall be permanently maintained and replaced as necessary.
7. STANDARD CONDITION FOR VAPOR INTRUSION. For projects which are known to be subject
to risk of vapor intrusion, the applicant shall assess site conditions to determine both the
nature and extent of contamination. If contamination at the site exceeds the most current
environmental screening levels (ESLs) identified by the Regional Water Quality Control
Board (RWQCB) for volatile organic compounds, the applicant shall prepare and submit a
Site Management and Contingency Plan (SMCP) to either the Department of Toxic
Substances Control (DTSC), RWQCB, or the County of Santa Clara Department of
Environmental Health for approval. The SMCP shall include details regarding the pending
development and propose remediation and/or mitigation to address any environmental risk
identified in the site assessment. The applicant shall agree to and implement all
recommendations of the reviewing regulatory agency approving the SMCP in order to
reduce the exposure of future occupants to vapor intrusion. A copy of the approved SMCP
shall be submitted to the Director of Planning prior to issuance of a building permit. If the
reviewing agency requires that a vapor intrusion barrier system be installed, the VIMs shall
be document in the building permit plan set prior to issuance of the building permit.
Post construction indoor air monitoring shall be conducted for any VIMS systems and shall
comply with the specific recommendations set forth by the regulatory agency approving the
SMCP.
8. STANDARD CONDITION NESTING BIRD SURVEY. Vegetation or tree removal shall be
prohibited during the general avian nesting season (February 1 – August 31), if feasible. If
nesting season avoidance is not feasible, the applicant shall retain a qualified biologist, as
approved by the City of Palo Alto, to conduct a preconstruction nesting bird survey to
determine the presence/absence, location, and activity status of any active nests on or
adjacent to the project site no more than 14 days prior to scheduled vegetation clearance
and/or demolition activities. If nesting birds are found to be present, a suitable buffer
(typically a minimum buffer of 50 feet for passerines and a minimum buffer of 250 feet for
raptors) as determined appropriate by the biologist, shall be established around such active
nests and no construction shall be allowed within the buffer areas until a qualified biologist
has determined that the nest is no longer active (i.e., the nestlings have fledged and are no
longer reliant on the nest). A report documenting any data recovered during monitoring
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shall be prepared by a qualified biologist and submitted to the Director of Planning prior to
final planning inspection.
9. CULTURAL SENSITIVITY TRAINING. Prior to issuance of any grading permit, the project
applicant shall be required to submit evidence that a Cultural Awareness Training program
has been provided to construction personnel. The training shall be facilitated by a qualified
archaeologist in collaboration with a Native American representative registered with the
Native American Heritage Commission for the City of Palo Alto and that is traditionally and
culturally affiliated with the geographic area as described in Public Resources Code Section
21080.3.
10. SUB-SURFACE MONITORING. Prior to issuance of any tree removal, grading, demolition,
and/or building permits or activities, the applicant shall notify the Director of Planning, of
grading and construction dates and activities that require a qualified archeologist and
Native American monitor to be present on the project site. The City shall then notify the
tribe via e-mail correspondence 10 days prior to any grading or construction activities. If the
tribe chooses not to send a monitor or does not respond within the 10 days, work shall
continue without the monitor.
11. ARCHEOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL MONITORING. A qualified archaeologist and a Native
American monitor, registered with the Native American Heritage Commission for the City of
Palo Alto and that is traditionally and culturally affiliated with the geographic area as
described in Public Resources Code Section 21080.3, shall be present during earthmoving
activities including, trenching, initial or full grading, scraping or blading, lifting of
foundation, boring, drilling, or major landscaping. The qualified archaeologist and Native
American monitor shall have the authority to halt construction activities within 50 feet of a
discovery in the event any cultural materials are encountered during ground-disturbing
construction activities. The qualified archeologist and Native American monitor shall keep a
daily monitoring log on days that monitoring occurs documenting construction activities
that were monitored, location of the monitoring, and any cultural materials identified.
These daily monitoring logs shall be made available to the City upon request.
12. ARCHEOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL TREATMENT PLAN. In the event any significant cultural
materials are encountered during construction, construction within a radius of 50 feet of
the find would be halted, the Director of Planning shall be notified, and the on-site qualified
archaeologist, in collaboration with the Native American Monitor, shall examine the find
and make appropriate recommendations regarding the significance of the find and the
appropriate treatment of the resource.
The qualified archeologist in collaboration with a Native American monitor, registered with
the Native American Heritage Commission for the City of Palo Alto and that is traditionally
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and culturally affiliated with the geographic area as described in Public Resources Code
Section 21080.3, shall prepare and implement a treatment plan that reflects permit-level
detail pertaining to depths and locations of excavation activities. The treatment plan shall
contain, at a minimum:
1. Identification of the scope of work and range of subsurface effects (including
location map and development plan), including requirements for preliminary
field investigations.
2. Description of the environmental setting (past and present) and the
historic/prehistoric background of the parcel (potential range of what might be
found).
3. Monitoring schedules and individuals.
4. Development of research questions and goals to be addressed by the
investigation (what is significant vs. what is redundant information).
5. Detailed field strategy to record, recover, or avoid the finds and address research
goals.
6. Analytical methods.
7. Report structure and outline of document contents.
8. Disposition of the artifacts.
9. Security approaches or protocols for finds.
10. Appendices: all site records, correspondence, and consultation with Native
Americans, etc.
The treatment plan shall utilize data recovery methods to reduce impacts on subsurface
resources. The treatment plan must be reviewed and approved by the Director of Planning,
or the Director’s designee prior to implementation of the plan.
13. ARCHEOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL EVALUATION. The project applicant shall notify the
Director of Planning, Native American Monitor, and Archeological Monitor, of any finds
during grading or other construction activities. Any historic or prehistoric material identified
in the project area during excavation activities shall be evaluated for eligibility for listing in
the California Register of Historic Resources as determined by the California Office of
Historic Preservation. Data recovery methods may include, but are not limited to, backhoe
trenching, shovel test, hand augering, and hand-excavation. The techniques used for data
recovery shall follow the protocols identified in the approved treatment plan. Data recovery
shall include excavation and exposure of features, field documentation, and recordation. All
documentation and recordation shall be submitted to the Northwest Information Center,
and the Director of Planning.
14. UNANTICIPATED DISCOVERY OF BURIED ARCHEOLOGICAL AND TRIBAL CULTURAL
RESOURCES. If human remains are found, the State of California Health and Safety Code
Section 7050.5 states that no further disturbance shall occur until the County Coroner has
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made a determination of origin and disposition pursuant to Public Resources Code Section
5097.98. In the event of an unanticipated discovery of human remains, the County Coroner
must be notified immediately. If the human remains are determined to be of Native
American origin, the Coroner will notify the Native American Heritage Commission, which
will determine and notify a most likely descendant (MLD). The MLD has 48 hours from being
granted site access to make recommendations for the disposition of the remains. If the MLD
does not make recommendations within 48 hours, the landowner shall reinter the remains
in an area of the property secure from subsequent disturbance.
15. The project shall be revised to comply with the applicable CalGreen requirements, including
but not limited to meeting Electric vehicle and bicycle parking requirements.
16. In accordance with Mitigation measure Air 2a of the Comprehensive Plan EIR, these BMPs
shall be implemented during all demolition, grading, and construction activities to reduce
construction-related particulate emissions:
1. Exposed surfaces (e.g., parking areas, staging areas, soil piles, graded areas, and
unpaved access roads) shall be watered two times per day or covered.
2. Haul trucks transporting soil, sand, or other loose material off-site shall be
covered.
3. Visible mud or dirt track-out onto adjacent public roads shall be removed using
wet power vacuum street sweepers at least once per day. The use of dry power
sweeping is prohibited.
4. Vehicle speeds on unpaved roads shall be limited to 15 miles per hour.
5. Roadways, driveways, and sidewalks to be paved shall be completed as soon as
possible. Building pads shall be laid as soon as possible after grading unless
seeding or soil binders are used.
6. Idling times shall be minimized either by shutting equipment off when not in use
or reducing the maximum idling time to five minutes (as required by the
California airborne toxics control measure Chapter13, Section 2485 of California
Code of Regulations [CCR]). Clear signage explaining this rule shall be provided
for construction workers at all access points.
7. Construction equipment shall be maintained and properly tuned in accordance
with the manufacturer’s specifications. Equipment shall be checked by a
certified mechanic and determined to be running in proper condition prior to
operation.
8. A publicly visible sign shall be posted with the telephone number and name of an
individual working for the construction contractor who can be contacted
regarding dust complaints. This person shall respond and take corrective action
within 48 hours. The BAAQMD’s phone number shall also be visible to ensure
compliance with applicable regulations.
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17. NOISE MITIGATION IN CONFORMANCE WITH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN POLICY N6.11.1 AND
MITIGATION MEASURE NOISE-8 IN THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN EIR. Noise control measures
would include, but not be limited to, the following BMPs that would further decrease the
project’s noise impacts during construction:
The contractor shall use “new technology” power construction equipment with
state-of-the art noise shielding and muffling devices. All internal combustion engines
used on the project site shall be equipped with adequate mufflers and shall be in
good mechanical condition to minimize noise created by faulty or poorly maintained
engines or other components.
The unnecessary idling of internal combustion engines shall be prohibited.
Staging areas and stationary noise-generating equipment shall be located as far as
possible from noise-sensitive receptors such as residential uses (a minimum of 200
feet)
The surrounding neighborhood shall be notified early and frequently of the
construction activities.
A “noise disturbance coordinator” shall be designated to respond to any local
complaints about construction noise. The disturbance coordinator would determine
the cause of the noise complaints (e.g., beginning work too early, bad muffler, etc.)
and institute reasonable measures warranted to correct the problem. A telephone
number for the disturbance coordinator would be conspicuously posted at the
construction site.
Utilize ‘quiet’ models of air compressors and other stationary noise sources where
technology exists.
Equip all internal combustion engine-driven equipment with mufflers, which are in
good condition and appropriate for the equipment.
Construct temporary noise barriers, where feasible, to screen stationary noise-
generating equipment when located within 200 feet of adjoining sensitive land uses.
Temporary noise barrier fences would provide a 5dBA noise reduction if the noise
barrier interrupts the line of- sight between the noise source and receptor and if the
barrier is constructed in a manner that eliminates any cracks or gaps.
If stationary noise-generating equipment must be located near receptors, adequate
muffling (with enclosures where feasible and appropriate) shall be used. Any
enclosure openings or venting shall face away from sensitive receptors.
Ensure that generators, compressors, and pumps are housed in acoustical
enclosures.
Locate cranes as far from adjoining noise-sensitive receptors as possible.
During final grading, substitute graders for bulldozers, where feasible. Wheeled
heavy equipment are quieter than track equipment and should be used where
feasible.
Substitute nail guns for manual hammering, where feasible.
Substitute electrically powered tools for noisier pneumatic tools, where feasible.
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Prior to building permit issuance the contractor shall prepare a detailed construction
plan identifying the schedule for major noise-generating construction activities. The
construction plan shall identify a procedure for coordination with adjacent
residential land uses so that construction activities can be scheduled to minimize
noise disturbance.
18. NOISE MITIGATION IN CONFORMANCE WITH COMPREHENSIVE POLICY N6.11.1 AND
MITIGATION MEASURE NOISE-5a IN THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN EIR. The project proponent
shall implement a construction vibration monitoring plan to document conditions prior to,
during, and after vibration generating construction activities for the adjacent residential
uses. All plan tasks shall be undertaken under the direction of a licensed Professional
Structural Engineer in the State of California and be in accordance with industry-accepted
standard methods. The construction vibration monitoring plan shall be submitted to the
City prior to issuance of a Grading or Building Permit and shall include, but not be limited to,
the following measures:
The report shall include a description of measurement methods, equipment used,
calibration certificates, and graphics as required to clearly identify vibration-
monitoring locations.
A list of all heavy construction equipment to be used for this project and the
anticipated time duration of using the equipment that is known to produce high
vibration levels (clam shovel drops, vibratory rollers, hoe rams, large bulldozers,
caisson drillings, loaded trucks, jackhammers, etc.) shall be submitted to the Director
of Planning and Development Services or Director’s designee of the Department of
Planning & Development by the contractor. This list shall be used to identify
equipment and activities that could exceed the 0.3 PPV threshold at the adjacent
residential uses based on the planned equipment, location, and duration of use.
Where project construction activities may be anticipated to exceed the threshold,
the applicant shall provide a plan to show how levels would be reduced by phasing
activities that are known to cause excessive vibration, utilizing alternative
equipment, and/or reducing the time period that the equipment is being used.
Where possible, use of the heavy vibration-generating construction equipment shall
be prohibited within 20 feet of the adjacent residential uses.
o Smaller equipment (less than 18,000 pounds) must be used near the
property lines adjacent to the existing residential uses to minimize vibration
levels to 0.3 in/sec PPV or less. For example, a smaller vibratory roller similar
to a Caterpillar model CP433E vibratory compactor could be used when
compacting materials within 20 feet of the adjacent residential buildings. The
smaller equipment intended to implement this requirement shall be
individually identified among the list of equipment required under the above
condition as the subset of equipment allowed for use at the property lines.
o Avoid using vibratory rollers and clam shovel drops within 20 feet of the
adjacent residential uses.
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o Select demolition methods that do not involve large impact tools such as
hoe-rams within 20 feet of the eastern property line. Portable jackhammers,
saws, or grinders shall be used to minimize impacts to the ground.
o Avoid dropping heavy equipment and use alternative methods for breaking
up existing pavement, such as a pavement grinder, instead of dropping heavy
objects, within 20 feet of the adjacent residential uses.
• Develop a vibration monitoring and construction contingency plan to identify
structures where monitoring would be conducted, set up a vibration monitoring
schedule, define structure-specific vibration limits, and address the need to conduct
photo, elevation, and crack surveys to document before and after construction
conditions. Construction contingencies shall be identified for when vibration levels
approach the limits of 0.3 in/sec PPV at the adjacent residential buildings.
• At a minimum, vibration monitoring shall be conducted during demolition and
excavation activities.
• Designate a person responsible for registering and investigating claims of excessive
vibration. The contact information of such person shall be clearly posted on the
construction site.
Conduct a post-construction survey on structures where either monitoring has
indicated high vibration levels or complaints of damage has been made. Make
appropriate repairs or compensation where damage has occurred as a result of
construction activities.
19. OPEN AIR LOUDSPEAKERS (AMPLIFIED MUSIC). In accordance with PAMC Section 9.12, no
amplified music shall be used for producing sound in or upon any open area, to which the
public has access, between the hours of 11:00pm and one hour after sunrise. In addition, all
rooftop gardens/decks shall comply with the provisions of PAMC 18.42.230.
20. NOISE THRESHOLDS ON RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY. In accordance with PAMC Section
9.10.030, No person shall produce, suffer or allow to be produced by any machine, animal
or device, or any combination of same, on residential property, a noise level more than six
dB above the local ambient at any point outside of the property plane. At building permit,
provide the proposed HVAC specifications. If the proposed decibel level of the HVAC
exceeds the decibel level of the HVAC evaluated in the CEQA analysis, a noise analysis of the
proposed equipment’s consistency with the municipal code shall be required.
21.NOISE REPORT PRIOR TO INSPECTION. Where the acoustical analysis submitted at building
permit for noise producing equipment projects noise levels at or within 5 dB less than the
Noise Ordinance limits, the applicant shall demonstrate the installed equipment complies
with the anticipated noise levels and the Noise Ordinance prior to final Planning inspection
approval.
22. SIGN APPROVAL NEEDED. No signs are approved at this time. All signs shall conform to the
requirements of Title 16.20 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (Sign Code) and shall be subject to
approval by the Director of Planning.
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23. TRASH ROOM. The trash room shall be used solely for the temporary storage of refuse and
recycling that is disposed on a regular basis and shall be closed and locked during non-
business hours.
24. UTILITY LOCATIONS. In no case shall utilities be placed in a location that requires equipment
and/or bollards to encroach into a required parking space. In no case shall a pipeline or
water and wastewater services/laterals/meters be placed within 10 feet of a proposed tree
and/or tree designated to remain, or within 5 feet where root barrier protection is installed,
unless otherwise approved by urban forestry and waste-gas-water.
25. ESTIMATED IMPACT FEE. Development Impact Fees, currently estimated in the amount of
$10,029,295.09 shall be paid in accordance with PAMC Chapter 16.64. The final
Development Impact Fees shall be calculated before they are due, and payment may be
deferred to the date the development is approved for occupancy as set forth in PAMC
Section 16.64.030 and as permitted by SB 937.
26. IMPACT FEE 90-DAY PROTEST PERIOD. California Government Code Section 66020 provides
that a project applicant who desires to protest the fees, dedications, reservations, or other
exactions imposed on a development project must initiate the protest at the time the
development project is approved or conditionally approved or within ninety (90) days after
the date that fees, dedications, reservations or exactions are imposed on the
Project. Additionally, procedural requirements for protesting these development fees,
dedications, reservations and exactions are set forth in Government Code Section 66020. IF
YOU FAIL TO INITIATE A PROTEST WITHIN THE 90-DAY PERIOD OR FOLLOW THE PROTEST
PROCEDURES DESCRIBED IN GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 66020, YOU WILL BE BARRED
FROM CHALLENGING THE VALIDITY OR REASONABLENESS OF THE FEES, DEDICATIONS,
RESERVATIONS, AND EXACTIONS. If these requirements constitute fees, taxes,
assessments, dedications, reservations, or other exactions as specified in Government Code
Sections 66020(a) or 66021, this is to provide notification that, as of the date of this notice,
the 90-day period has begun in which you may protest these requirements. This matter is
subject to the California Code of Civil Procedures (CCP) Section 1094.5; the time by which
judicial review must be sought is governed by CCP Section 1094.6.
27. INDEMNITY. To the extent permitted by law, the Applicant shall indemnify and hold
harmless the City, its City Council, its officers, employees and agents (the “indemnified
parties”) from and against any claim, action, or proceeding brought by a third party against
the indemnified parties and the applicant to attack, set aside or void, any permit or
approval authorized hereby for the Project, including (without limitation) reimbursing the
City for its actual attorneys’ fees and costs incurred in defense of the litigation. The City
may, in its sole discretion, elect to defend any such action with attorneys of its own choice.
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28. FINAL INSPECTION. A Planning Division Final inspection will be required to determine
substantial compliance with the approved plans prior to the scheduling of a Building Division
final. Any revisions during the building process must be approved by Planning. Contact your
Project Planner, Steven Switzer at Steven.Switzer@PaloAlto.gov to schedule this inspection.
Public Art
Building Division
Transportation
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1. Evaluate project ingress and egress operations, including driveway functionality
and queuing;
2. Analyze intersection operations and impacts at the Curtner Avenue / El Camino
Real intersection, considering the existing “No Right Turn on Red” restrictions;
3. Evaluate potential impacts to the suggested safe routes to school along Curtner
Avenue with respect to multimodal access; and
4. Identify and recommend improvements as necessary, subject to City approval.
34. OFF SITE IMPROVEMENTS: Off-site improvement plans shall be submitted to the Office of
Transportation for review and approval. These improvements shall incorporate all
recommendations identified in the transportation analysis prepared for the project. Off-site
improvements include, but are not limited to, design modifications that support on site
circulation and prevent queuing or other operational deficiencies within the public right of
way. Any proposed modifications to the public right of way shall be evaluated to ensure
they can be safely accommodated given existing lane geometry.
35. TRANSPORTATION DEMAND MANAGEMENT (TDM): The applicant shall prepare and submit
a final TDM Plan consistent with the Comprehensive Plan policies for the El Camino Real
corridor and that demonstrates a minimum 30 percent reduction in project generated
vehicle trips. The plan shall identify parking and trip reduction measures, include trip targets
and a monitoring and enforcement mechanism, and designate the responsible entity for
implementation.
All approved TDM measures shall be maintained for the life of the project. Monitoring
reports shall be submitted two years after occupancy and annually thereafter. If
performance targets are not met, the applicant shall implement modifications as required
by the Director. Failure to correct deficiencies may result in administrative penalties or
other enforcement actions consistent with the Municipal Code.
36. BICYCLE PARKING: In accordance with California Green Building Standards Code
(CALGreen), the project shall provide one on-site short term bicycle parking space per
10,000 square feet. Short term bicycle parking spaces shall be located within 200 feet of
building entrances and readily visible to passers-by.
37. LOADING ZONES: No project dedicated loading space shall be located within the public
right of way. The project shall maintain at minimum one, on-site loading space.
38. CONSISTENCY WITH CALTRANS SR-82 IMPROVEMENTS: All off-site improvements shall be
consistent with the recently completed Caltrans SR 82 (El Camino Real) improvements,
including existing “No Parking” signage along El Camino Real. Any temporary alterations to
bike lane enhancements shall be restored to existing conditions upon completion of the
project.
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39. BUS SHELTER COORDINATION: Potential impacts to the existing VTA bus shelter at the
intersection of Curtner Avenue and El Camino Real shall be reviewed and approved
through VTA’s development review process. The applicant shall comply with all
requirements issued by the transit authority.
Public Works Zero Waste
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46. On the plans submitted for building permit provide cut-sheets for the color-coded internal
and external containers, related color-coded millwork, and its colored signage in the
building plans. Trash chutes must have colored doors with colored signage that complies
with PAMC 5.20.18 requirements.
47. All indoor and outdoor common spaces are required to comply with the following: As per
Palo Alto Municipal Code 5.20.108 the site is required to have color-coded refuse
containers, related color-coded millwork, and colored signage. The three refuse containers
shall include recycle (blue container), compost (green container), and garbage (black
container). Applicant shall present on the plan submitted for building permit the locations
and quantity of both (any) internal and external refuse containers, its millwork, along with
the signage. However, for the copy/ mail area must have either a recycle bin only or all
three refuse receptacles (green compost, blue recycle, and black landfill container). Please
refer to PAMC 5.20.108 and the Internal Container Guide. Examples of appropriate signage
can be found in the Managing Zero Waste at Your Business Guide. Electronic copies of
these signage can be found on the Zero Waste Palo Alto’s website,
https://www.paloalto.gov/Departments/Public-Works/Zero-Waste/What-Goes-
Where/Toolkit#section-2 and hard copies can be requested from the waste hauler,
Greenwaste of Palo Alto, (650) 493-4894.
Public Works Engineering
48. PUBLIC WORKS APPLICATIONS, FORMS, AND DOCUMENTS: Applicant shall be advised that
most forms, applications, and informational documents related to Public Works Engineering
conditions can be found at the following link:
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Public-Works/Engineering-Services/Forms-
and-Permits
49. MODIFICATIONS TO PLANS: Approval of these plans does not include approval of a vesting
tentative map. The civil sheets shall be updated accordingly to reflect this or a separate
subdivision map application shall be filed. A tentative map is not required for the proposed
development; however, a lot merger is required.
50. LOT MERGER REVIEW: The City contracts with a third-party surveyor that will review and
provide approval of the lot merger’s technical correctness as the City Surveyor, as permitted
by the Subdivision Map Act. The Public Works Department will forward a Scope & Fee Letter
from the third-party surveyor, and the applicant will be responsible for payment of the fee’s
indicated therein, which is based on the complexity of the lot merger.
51. STREETWORK PERMIT: The applicant shall obtain a Streetwork Permit from the Department
of Public Works for all public improvements.
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52. SPECIAL STREET LIGHT: This project is located within an area designated to have special
streetlights as shown in the Special Street Light Style Placement Guide. Any new or replaced
streetlights shall be installed to the standards adopted by the Public Works Department and
Utility Department. https://www.paloalto.gov/files/assets/public/v/1/planning-amp-
development-services/current-planning/pw-style-placement-guide-2020.pdf
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59. GRADING AND EXCAVATION PERMIT: A Grading Permit is required per PAMC Chapter 16.28.
The permit application and all applicable documents (see Section H of application) shall be
submitted to Public Works Engineering. Add the following note: “THIS GRADING PERMIT
WILL ONLY AUTHORIZE GENERAL GRADING AND INSTALLATION OF THE STORM DRAIN
SYSTEM. OTHER BUILDING AND UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS ARE SHOWN FOR REFERENCE
INFORMATION ONLY AND ARE SUBJECT TO SEPARATE BUILDING PERMIT APPROVAL.”
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activity. A Notice of Intent (NOI) shall be filed for this project with the SWRCB in order to
obtain coverage under the permit. The General Permit requires the applicant to prepare
and implement a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). The applicant is required
to submit two copies of the NOI and the draft SWPPP to the Public Works Department for
review and approval prior to issuance of the building permit. The SWPPP should include
both permanent, post-development project design features and temporary measures
employed during construction.
65. ENCROACHMENT PERMIT: Prior to any work in the public right-of-way, the applicant shall
obtain an encroachment permit from the Public Works Department for any work that
encroaches onto the City right-of-way.
66. LOGISTICS PLAN: A construction logistics plan shall be provided addressing all impacts to
the public including, at a minimum: work hours, noticing of affected businesses, bus stop
relocations, construction signage, dust control, noise control, storm water pollution
prevention, job trailer, contractors’ parking, truck routes, staging, concrete pours, crane
lifts, scaffolding, materials storage, pedestrian safety, safe routes to school and mitigation
of construction impacts on Curtner Avenue, and traffic control. All truck routes shall
conform to the City of Palo Alto’s Trucks and Truck Route Ordinance, Chapter 10.48, and the
route map. The logistics plan shall be reviewed and approved by Public Works Department,
who shall consult with the City's Chief Transportation Official and the Director of Planning
and Development Services prior to approval. NOTE: Some items/tasks on the logistics plan
may require an encroachment permit.
67. STORMWATER POLLUTION PREVENTION: All improvement plan sets shall include the
“Pollution Prevention – It’s Part of the Plan” sheet.
68. C.3 THIRD-PARTY CERTIFICATION: Applicant shall provide certification from a qualified third-
party reviewer that the proposed permanent storm water pollution prevention measures
comply with the requirements of Provision C.3 and Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 16.11.
Submit the following:
a. Provide a stamped and signed C.3 data form (April 2024 version) from
SCVURPPP. https://scvurppp.org/2024/09/19/provision-c-3-data-form-2024/
b. Final stamped and signed letter confirming which documents were reviewed and
that the project complies with Provision C.3 and PAMC 16.11.
69 C.3 STORMWATER AGREEMENT: The applicant shall enter into a Stormwater Maintenance
Agreement with the City to guarantee the ongoing maintenance of the permanent storm
water pollution prevention measures. The City will inspect the treatment measures yearly
and charge an inspection fee. The agreement shall be executed by the applicant team prior
to building permit final.
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70 C.3 FINAL THIRD PARTY CERTIFICATION PRIOR TO OCCUPANCY: Within 45 days of the
installation of the required storm water treatment measures and prior to the issuance of
an occupancy permit for the building, the third-party reviewer shall submit to the City a
certification verifying that all the permanent storm water pollution prevention measures
were installed in accordance with the approved plans.
71 PAVEMENT RESTORATION: The applicant shall restore the pavement along the entire
project frontage, curb-to-curb, by performing a 3.5” grind and overlay. The exact
restoration limits will be determined once the resulting road condition is known following
completion of heavy construction activities and utility lateral installations, at minimum the
extent will be the project frontage on Curtner Avenue. The extent of restoration required
on El Camino Real shall be determined by the Public Works Department following
completion of heavy construction activities and utility lateral installations
72 IMPERVIOUS SURFACE AREA: The project will be creating or replacing 500 square feet or
more of impervious surface. Accordingly, the applicant shall provide calculations of the
existing and proposed impervious surface areas with the building permit application. The
Impervious Area Worksheet for Land Developments form and instructions are available at
the Development Center or on our website. To determine the impervious surface area that
is being disturbed, provide the quantity on the site plan.
73 OUTSIDE AGENCY APPROVAL: A portion of the proposed work is within Caltrans right-of-
way. Evidence of Caltrans approval shall be submitted prior to issuance of City permits.
74 PRIOR TO PUBLIC WORKS FINAL/ACCEPTANCE (STORM DRAIN LOGO): The applicant is
required to paint “No Dumping/Flows to Barron Creek” in blue on a white background
adjacent to all onsite storm drain inlets. The name of the creek to which the proposed
development drains can be obtained from Public Works Engineering. Stencils of the logo
are available from the Public Works Environmental Compliance Division, which may be
contacted at (650) 329-2598. Include the instruction to paint the logos on the construction
grading and drainage plan.
75 PRIOR TO PUBLIC WORKS FINAL/ACCEPTANCE (RECORD DRAWINGS): At the conclusion of
the project applicant shall provide digital as-built/record drawings of all improvements
constructed in the public right-of-way or easements in which the City owns an interest.
Urban Forestry
76. Post building permit issuance all protected trees are subject to a 14-day public notice prior
to their removal.
77. URBAN FORESTRY GENERAL: The following general tree preservation measures apply to all
trees to be retained: No storage of material, topsoil, vehicles or equipment shall be
permitted within the Tree Protection Zone (TPZ). The ground under and around the tree
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canopy area shall not be altered. No waste material or construction byproducts are
allowed within the TPZ. Trees to be retained shall be irrigated, aerated, and maintained as
necessary to ensure survival.
78. TREE DAMAGE: Tree Damage, Injury Mitigation, and Inspections apply to the Contractor.
Reporting, injury mitigation measures, and arborist inspection schedule may apply
pursuant to TLTM, Section 5.03.6. Contractor shall be responsible for the repair or
replacement of any publicly owned or protected trees that are damaged during the course
of construction, pursuant to Title 8 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code, and City of Palo Alto
Tree and Landscape Technical Manual, Section 3.02.
79. TPZ EXCAVATION RESTRICTIONS APPLY - TLTM, Sec. 3.03.6 - B5,6: Any approved grading,
digging, potholing, or trenching within the TPZ of a protected tree shall be performed using
‘air-spade’ method as a preference, with manual hand shovel as a backup. (TPZ= 10x the
tree diameter at 54" above grade) For utility trenching, including sewer line, roots exposed
with a diameter of 2 inches and greater shall remain intact and not be damaged. If
directional boring method is used to tunnel beneath roots, then CPA Standard Detail #504
shall be printed on the final plans and the buffer distances in TLTM Table 3-4,Trenching
and Tunneling Distance, shall be implemented by Contractor. Contractor must notify the
Urban Forestry Section at (650) 496-5953 in advance of conducting any approved
excavation within 10-feet of any street trees (or for any protected tree on EVSE projects).
Urban Forestry may choose to monitor or review the work for compliance with the City’s
Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) excavation standards.
80. TREE PROTECTION COMPLIANCE: The owner and contractor shall implement all protection
and inspection schedule measures, design recommendations, and construction scheduling
as stated in the Tree Preservation Report and/or T-1 Sheet Set and is subject to code
compliance action pursuant to PAMC 8.10.080. The required protective fencing shall
remain in place until the final landscaping or Urban Forestry inspection of the project is
completed.
81. NO NET LOSS OF CANOPY: In order to comply with the City’s no net loss of canopy policy
(PAMC 8.10.055; Urban Forest Master Plan Goals 6.A, 6.B, & 6.C; Comprehensive Plan,
Natural Environment Chapter Goal N-2) all trees 4 inches DBH and larger are subject to
replacement to avoid a loss of canopy at the neighborhood level. Replacement ratios are
determined by table 3-1 in the Tree and Landscape Technical Manual, Section 3.02. New
landscape tree plantings (24 inch box or larger) count towards the replacement total.
Screening trees may also count toward the total depending on size and species selected. If
unable to plant the required number of trees on site (our preferred solution) there is the
option of paying in-lieu fees per each 24 inch box tree into the forestry fund. [Note: A
replacement at ratio of 1:1 for trees listed as exempt species under PAMC 8.10.020 is
recommended. Exempt trees may require full replacement on parcels zoned other than R1,
RE, R-2, or RMD].
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82. PLAN CHANGES: Revisions and/or changes to plans before or during construction shall be
reviewed and responded to by the (a) project site arborist, or (b) landscape architect with
written letter of acceptance before submitting the revision to Planning and Development
Services Department for review by Planning, Public Works, or Urban Forestry.
83. PLAN SET REQUIREMENTS: The final Plans submitted for a building permit shall include the
location, DBH, canopy drip-line, and TPZ of all trees 4 inches DBH or greater as well as the
following information and notes on relevant plan sheets:
a. T-1 SHEET SET, The building permit plan set will include the City’s full-sized, T-1
Sheet Set (Tree Protection-it's Part of the Plan!), available on the Development
Center website. A certified arborist shall complete and sign the Tree Disclosure
Statement.
b. TREE PRESERVATION REPORT (TPR), if indicated by Tree Disclosure Statement, All
sheets of the Applicant’s TPR approved by the City for full implementation by
Contractor, shall be printed on numbered T-1 Sheets (T-3, T-4, etc.) and added to
the sheet index.
c. TREE PROTECTION FENCING, The Plan Set (esp. site, demolition, grading &
drainage, foundation, irrigation, tree disposition, utility sheets, etc.) must
delineate/show the correct configuration of Type I, Type II or Type III fencing
around each Protected Tree, using a bold dashed line enclosing the Tree
Protection Zone (CPA Standard Detail #605).
Fire
84. Install a NFPA 13 Fire Sprinkler System, NFPA 14 Standpipe System, NFPA 20 fire pump,
NFPA 24 Fire Underground Service, NFPA 72 voice notification fire alarm system,
Emergency Responder Radio Communication System and 2-way Communication
System.
85. Fire sprinkler density for parking garage shall be Extra Hazard Group 2. Fire sprinkler for
residential area shall be Light Hazard .1gpm/1500 sq ft. Provide Ordinary Hazard 2 fire
sprinkler density in bike storage room.
86. Knox Remote Power Boxes are required for the main electrical disconnect, secondary
electrical power source disconnects and 100% garage exhaust activation.
87. PAFD Hazmat site closure permit required.
88. Garage will require a manually activated smoke exhaust system for the removal of
smoke/toxic fumes in the event of vehicle fires.
89. Do not install elevator shunt trip circuit breaker. Follow 2025 CBC section 3005.4.1 and
install smoke detector in elevator machine room.
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90. Install an electrical disconnect switch (EPO) for EVCE’s.
91. Install Knox key switch for Fire Department access through garage vehicle security
barriers.
Overhead utilities crossing Curtner Ave shall be placed underground.
Watershed Protection
The following comments are provided as a courtesy and these conditions of approval must be
complied with before receiving a Demolition Permit for this project:
92. NOTICE OF REGULATION OF PCB MATERIAL – EFFECTIVE JULY 1st, 2019: Please be
advised that requirements regarding stormwater control during building demolition for
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) became effective starting July 1st, 2019, in accordance
with the San Francisco Bay Region Municipal Regional Stormwater NPDES Permit (MRP),
Order No. R2-2015-0049. MRP Provision C.12.f. requires that San Francisco Bay Area
municipalities develop a program to ensure that PCBs from building materials (e.g.
caulk, paint, mastic) do not enter the storm drain system during building demolition.
Palo Alto City Council adopted the PCBs regulation in May 2019. For specific questions
about your project, please email CleanBay@cityofpaloalto.org, call 650-329-2122 or visit
http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/pcbdemoprogram.
93. If the project is submitting a demolition permit application on or after July 1st, 2019, the
applicant shall complete and submit the “PCBs Applicant Package,” including any
required sampling reports (per the Applicant Package instructions), with the demolition
permit application. The PCBs Application Package and other resources are outlined at
http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/pcbdemoprogram. The Applicant Package will outline
PCBs sampling and reporting requirements that must be met if the project meets ALL of
the following conditions:
a. The project is a commercial, public, institutional, or industrial structure
constructed or remodeled between January 1, 1950 and December 31, 1980.
Single-family and two-family homes are exempt regardless of age.
b. The framing of the building contains material other than wood. Wood-frame
structures are exempt.
c. The proposed demolition is a complete demolition of the building. Partial
demolitions do not apply to the requirements.
94. If the project triggers polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) sampling as identified on the
“PCBs Applicant Package,” then the project shall conduct representative sampling of
PCBs concentration in accordance with the “Protocol for Evaluating Priority PCBs-
Containing Materials before Building Demolition (2018).”
If the representative sample results or records DO NOT indicate PCB
concentrations ≥50 ppm in one or more “priority materials,” then the screening
assessment is complete. Applicant submits screening form and the supporting
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sampling documentation with the demolition permit application. No additional
action is required.
If the representative sample results or records DO indicate PCBs concentrations
≥50 ppm in one or more “priority materials,” then the screening assessment is
complete, but the Applicant MUST also contact applicable State and Federal
Agencies to meet further requirements. Applicant submits screening form and
the supporting sampling documentation with the demolition permit application,
and also must contact the State and Federal Agencies as indicated on Page 3 of
the “PCBs Screening Assessment Form.”
IMPORTANT: ADVANCED APPROVAL FROM THE UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL
PROTECTION AGENCY (USEPA) OR OTHER STATE AGENCIES MAY BE REQUIRED PRIOR TO
BUILDING DEMOLITION. IT IS RECOMMENEDED THAT APPLICANTS BEGIN THE PCBs
ASSESSMENT WELL IN ADVANCE OF APPLYING FOR DEMOLITION PERMIT AS THE
PROCESS CAN TAKE BETWEEN 1-3 MONTHS.
95. Requirement for oil-water separator in interior parking garage floor drains: If installed,
parking garage floor drains on interior levels shall be connected to an oil-water
separator prior to discharging to the sanitary sewer system. The oil-water separator
shall be cleaned at a frequency of at least once every twelve (12) months or more
frequently if recommended by the manufacturer or required by the Director.
Installation, certification, and maintenance records shall be maintained and made
available for inspection and copying as described in Section 16.09.155 of this Chapter.
Oil-water separators shall have a minimum capacity of 100 gallons (PAMC
16.09.165(a)(8) and 16.09.170(a)(5)).
96. Exemption for requirements below: This requirement can be exempted if no washing is
allowed on-site via rental/lease agreement, any hose bibs are to be fitted with lock-outs
or other connection controls, and signage is posted indicating that car washing is not
allowed (PAMC 16.09.170(a)(6)).
a. Requirement for an oil-water separator for carwash area: A drain shall be
installed to capture all vehicle wash waters and shall be connected to an oil-
water separator prior to discharge to the sanitary sewer system. The oil-water
separator shall be cleaned at a frequency of at least once every
twelve(12)months or more frequently if recommended by the manufacturer or
required by the Director. Oil-water separators shall have a minimum capacity
of100 gallons.
b. Requirement for bermed area around carwash: The area shall be graded or
bermed in such a manner as to prevent the discharge of stormwater to the
sanitary sewer system
97. Discharge drains for pools, spas, and fountains shall not be connected directly to the
storm drain system or to the sanitary sewer system (PAMC 16.09.165(a)(7) and
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16.09.170(a)(4)).
Electrical Utilities
98. Ensure proposed location of transformers and switches have adequate space. Refer to
CPAU drawings DT-SS-C-1005 for typical sizes of transformer pads, CPAU drawings DT-
SS-U-1026 for typical sizes of switch pads, CPAU drawing DT-CL-U-1031 for pad mount
clearance requirements. Please note that requests for account closures will be needed
before electric facilities are removed for identified existing overhead and underground
electric services.
Water-Gas-Wastewater Utilities
The following comments are required to be addressed prior to any future related permit
application such as a Building Permit, Excavation and Grading Permit, Certificate of Compliance,
Street Work Permit, Encroachment Permit, etc. These comments are provided as a courtesy
and are not required to be addressed prior to the Planning entitlement approval:
99. The applicant is to submit flow monitoring data for the sewer connection utility impact
study. The study must include, but not be limited to: flow rate data, depth of flow
associated with the flow rate data, and a summary of the minimum and maximum flow
rates for each flow monitor installed for a minimum monitoring period of fourteen (14)
continuous days.
i. Flow monitoring is to be performed downstream of the proposed
connection point. No downstream overloading of the existing sewer main
will be permitted. In addition, depending on the development size, the
city may require the developer's architect/engineer to perform flow
monitoring upstream of the proposed tie-in locations to quantify the
impact of the new flows on the nearby and downstream sanitary sewer
mains. The need for upstream flow monitoring will be developed on a
case-by-case basis.
ii. Following the APPROVED Study, should sewer main improvements be
required, the developer shall prepare all construction plans and obtain all
permits, and cover all costs necessary for upsizing, upgrading, or
otherwise improving the public wastewater sewer system and public
infrastructure to meet the proposed project's needs. The developer shall
not be responsible for any marginal increase in cost associated with
excess capacity requested by the City.
iii. In the event that the construction plans for permitting deviate from the
preliminary plans associated with the flow monitoring report, the
developer’s engineer needs to submit an updated flow monitoring report
to confirm development changes, changes in proposed flows, and the
impact on any required sewer main with identified updates and/or
changes to the required downstream sewer main improvements. Final
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approval of constructed improvements by CPAU is required for the completed
installation. CPAU reserves the right to solicit an additional study in the event of
modifications to the development scope.
PRIOR TO ISSUANCE OF DEMOLITION PERMIT (if required)
100. The applicant shall submit a request to disconnect utility services and remove
gas meters. The utilities demo is to be processed within 10 working days after receipt
of the request. The demolition permit will be issued by the building inspection division
after all utility services and/or meters have been disconnected and removed.
FOR BUILDING PERMIT
93. The applicant shall submit a completed water-gas-wastewater service connection
application - load sheet for the City of Palo Alto Utilities. The applicant must provide
all the information requested for utility service demands (water in fixture units/g.p.m.,
gas in b.t.u.h, and sewer in fixture units/g.p.d.). The applicant shall provide the
existing (prior) loads, the new loads, and the combined/total loads (the new loads plus
any existing loads to remain).
94. The applicant shall submit improvement plans for utility construction. The plans must
show the size and location of all underground utilities within the development and the
public right of way including meters, backflow preventers, fire service requirements,
sewer mains, sewer cleanouts, sewer lift stations, and any other required utilities.
Plans for new wastewater laterals and mains need to include new wastewater pipe
profiles showing existing potentially conflicting utilities especially storm drain pipes,
electric and communication duct banks. Existing duct banks need to be daylighted by
potholing to the bottom of the duct bank to verify cross section prior to plan approval
and starting lateral installation. Plans for new storm drain mains and laterals need to
include profiles showing existing potential conflicts with sewer, water, and gas.
95. The applicant must show on the site plan the existence of any auxiliary water supply,
(i.e. water well, gray water, recycled water, rain catchment, water storage tank, etc).
96. The applicant shall be responsible for installing and upgrading the existing utility mains
and/or services, laterals as necessary to handle anticipated peak loads. This
responsibility includes all costs associated with the design and construction for the
installation/upgrade of the utility mains and/or services/laterals. The
Developer’s financial responsibility for utility upgrades exceeding the impacts of the
development shall be limited to Developer’s fair share contribution, as
reasonably determined by the Utilities Department.
97. An approved reduced pressure principle assembly (RPPA backflow preventer device) is
required for all existing and new water connections from Palo Alto Utilities to comply
with requirements of California administrative code, title 17, sections 7583 through
7605 inclusive. The RPPA shall be installed on the owner's property and directly
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behind the water meter within 5 feet of the property line. RPPA's for domestic service
shall be lead free. Show the location of the RPPA on the plans.
An approved reduced pressure detector assembly (RPDA backflow preventer device,
STD. WD-12A or STD. WD-12B) is required for all existing and new fire water
connections from Palo Alto Utilities to comply with requirements of California
administrative code, title 17, sections 7583 through 7605 inclusive. The RPDA shall be
installed on the owner's property and directly behind the City owned meter, within 5'
(feet) of the property line or City Right of Way.
98. All backflow preventer devices shall be approved by the WGW engineering division.
Inspection by the city inspector is required for the supply pipe between the meter and
the assembly.
99. The applicant shall pay the capacity fees and connection fees associated with new
utility service/s or added demand on existing services. The approved relocation of
services, meters, hydrants, or other facilities will be performed at the cost of the
person/entity requesting the relocation.
100. If a new water service line installation for fire system usage is required. Show the
location of the new water service on the plans. The applicant shall provide to the
engineering department a copy of the plans for fire system including all fire
department's requirements.
101. Each unit or building shall have its own water meter shown on the plans. Each parcel
shall have its own water and sewer lateral connection shown on the plans.
102. A sewer lateral per lot is required. Show the location of the new sewer lateral on the
plans. A profile of the sewer lateral is required showing any possible conflicts with
storm, electric/communications ductbanks or other utilities.
103. All existing water, and gas. and wastewater services/laterals that will not be reused
shall be abandoned at the main per the latest WGW utilities standards by CPAU.
104. Utility vaults, transformers, utility cabinets, concrete bases, or other structures
cannot be placed over existing water, gas, or wastewater mains/services. Maintain 1'
horizontal clear separation from the vault/cabinet/concrete base to existing utilities
as found in the field. If there is a conflict with existing utilities, Cabinets/vaults/bases
shall be relocated from the plan location as needed to meet field conditions. Trees
may not be planted within 10 feet of existing water, gas, and wastewater
mains/laterals/water services/or meters. New water or wastewater
services/laterals/meters may not be installed within 10' of existing trees. Maintain
10' between new trees and new water and wastewater services/laterals/meters.
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105. The applicant shall provide to the WGW Utility Engineering department a copy of the
plans for fire system including all fire department's requirements prior to the actual
service installation.
106. All utility installations shall be in accordance with the City of Palo Alto utility
standards for water, gas, & wastewater.
SECTION 5. Term of Approval.
1. Architectural Review Application. In the event actual construction of the project is
not commenced within two years of the Effective Date, the approval shall expire and be
of no further force or effect. An extension may be granted in accordance with the
allowances set forth in the municipal code and state law.
INTRODUCED AND PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST: APPROVED:
_________________________ ____________________________
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED AS TO CONTENT:
___________________________ ___________________________
Assistant City Attorney City Manager
___________________________
Director of Planning and
Development Services
PLANS AND DRAWINGS REFERENCED:
Those plans titled “C7_3781 El Camino Real_PLANS.pdf” consisting of 76 pages, dated and
submitted March 17, 2026.
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ATTACHMENT C
3781 El Camino Real, 24PLN-00161
Table 1: COMPARISON WITH CHAPTER 18.14 (HOUSING INCENTIVES) EL CAMINO REAL FOCUS AREA
FOR CN DISTRICT (18.16) PARCELS
Mixed-use and Residential Development Standards
Regulation Required Proposed
Minimum Site Area, width and
depth
None No change
Minimum Front Yard
(El Camino Real)
0-10 feet to create an 8-12 foot
effective sidewalk width (1), (2), (8)
12 feet
Rear Yard None Not Applicable
Interior Side Yard None 10 feet
Street Side Yard (Curtner Avenue)20 feet (2)
5* ft (ECR Focus Area Allowance)
15 feet
Min. yard for lot lines abutting or
opposite residential districts or
residential PC districts
10 feet (2)Not Applicable
Build-to-lines 50% of frontage built to setback on
El Camino Real
33% of side street built to setback
on Curtner Avenue(7)
90% of frontage built to setbacks
Max. Site Coverage 50%
80%* (ECR Focus Area Allowance)
83%
Max. Building Height 25 ft and 2 stories
85* ft (ECR Focus Area Allowance)
82 ft
Max. Floor Area Ratio (FAR)0.5:1
4.0* (ECR Focus Area Allowance)
3.18:1 (88,112 sf of 27,665 sf lot
size)
Daylight Plane for lot lines abutting
one or more residential zone
districts
None (6)Complies (Abutting CN)
Minimum Usable Open Space 100 sf per unit (7,900 sf) (ECR Focus
Area Allowance)
25,756 sf
Max. Residential Density 122 DU/AC with 24.5% bonus
(Cal. Gov. Code 65589.5(h)(11)(C))
152 du/acre
(1) No parking or loading space, whether required or optional, shall be located in the first 10 feet adjoining the street property line of
any required yard.
(2) Any minimum front, street side, or interior yard shall be planted and maintained as a landscaped screen excluding areas required
for access to the site. A solid wall or fence between 5 and 8 feet in height shall be constructed along any common interior lot line..
(6) The initial height and slope shall be identical to those of the most restrictive residential zone abutting the site line in question.
(7) 25 foot driveway access permitted regardless of frontage, build-to requirement does not apply to CC district.
(8) A 12 foot sidewalk width is required along El Camino Real frontage
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Table 2: COMPARISON WITH CHAPTER 18.14 (HOUSING INCENTIVES) EL CAMINO REAL FOCUS AREA
FOR RM-30 DISTRICT (18.13)
Regulation Required Proposed
Minimum/Maximum Site Area,
Width and Depth
8,500 sf area, 70 foot width, 100
foot depth
No Change
Minimum Front Yard
(Curtner Avenue)
(2) 20 feet 15 feet
Rear Yard 10 feet 10 feet
Interior Side Yard 6 feet 8-9 feet
Street Side Yard 16 feet Not Applicable
Setback from major roadways
[18.13.040(b)(1)(A)]
25 feet Not Applicable
Max. Building Height 35 feet
85* ft (ECR Focus Area Allowance)
82 feet
Side Yard Daylight Plane None Not Applicable
Rear Yard Daylight Plane None Not Applicable
Max. Site Coverage 40%
80% (ECR Focus Area Allowance)
83%
Max. Residential Density 122 DU/AC with 24.5% bonus
(Cal. Gov. Code 65589.5(h)(11)(C))
152 du/acre
Max. Total Floor Area Ratio 0.6:1
4.0* (ECR Focus Area Allowance)
3.26:1 (115,100 sf of 35,360 sf lot
size)
Minimum Site Open Space 30% 17%
Minimum Usable Open Space 150 sf per unit (15,600 sf)
100 sf per unit (10,400 sf) (ECR Focus
Area Allowance)
25,756 sf
Minimum Common Open Space 75 sf per unit (7,800 sf)4,285 sf
Minimum Private Open Space 50 sf per unit (5,200 sf)7,152 sf
Table 5: CONFORMANCE WITH CHAPTER 18.52 (Off-Street Parking and Loading)
for Multiple Family Residential*
Type Required Proposed
Vehicle Parking 1 per unit (183 units) = 183 spaces
(ECR Focus Area Allowance)
215 spaces (36 tandem)
Bicycle Parking 1 per unit long term (183)
1 per 10 units short term (18)
144 long term
4 short term
Loading Space 1 required for more than 50 units 0 provided
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City of Palo Alto - Objective Design Standards Checklist
Page 1
Objective Design Standards Checklist
The Objective Design Standards Checklist is a tool to evaluate a project’s compliance with the Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 18.24). The Checklist is
not the Zoning Ordinance. Applicants shall be responsible for meeting the standards in the Zoning Ordinance. To simplify evaluation of the
Zoning Ordinance, language in the Checklist may vary from the Zoning Ordinance. (Note: sf = square feet)
If a standard is not applicable to applicant’s project, please write N/A in Applicant’s Justification column.
18.24.020 Public Realm/Sidewalk Character
Check Standard Sheet #Notes
(b)(1) Sidewalk Widths
(A) In the following districts, public sidewalk width (curb to back of walk) is at least:
Commercial Mixed-Use District: CN, CS, CC, CC(2), CD-C, CD-S, CD-N, PTOD: 10 ft
El Camino Real: 12 ft
San Antonio Road, from Middlefield Road to East Charleston Road: 12 ft
And consists of:
AP1.00
Complies.
4 feet 2 inches foot Public
Access Easement on El Camino
Real – to create an effective 12-
foot sidewalk
Pedestrian clear path width of 8 foot minimum: 12 feet
☐
Landscape or furniture area width of 2 foot minimum: 4 feet
☐
If the existing public sidewalk does not meet the minimum standard, a
publicly accessible extension of the sidewalk, with corresponding public
access easement, shall be provided.
☐
(B) Public sidewalks or walkways connecting through a development parcel (e.g. on a
through lot with a public access easement, leading to a commercial entry) must
be at least 6 feet wide.
(C) The width of walkways designed to provide bicycle access (e.g. pathway to bike
racks/lockers) must be at least 12 feet wide, consisting of: AP1.00
Complies.
4 feet 2 inches foot Public
Access Easement on El Camino
Real – to create an effective 12-
foot sidewalk
☒
Pedestrian clear path width (8 feet min.): 8 ft
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Clear space/buffer – (2 feet min. on each side of path, ground cover is
allowed): 4 feet and 6.5 feet
Check Standard Sheet #Applicant’s Justification
(B)(2) Street Trees
1. One street tree provided for every 30 linear feet of public sidewalk length and
located within six feet of the sidewalk. L1
Does not comply. While the
project proposes 5 new street
trees with the existing 4 trees, it
does not meet the required 16
trees.
a. Length of parcel frontage/public sidewalk length: 190 ft (El Camino
Real); 270 ft (Curtner Ave)
b. Street Trees required (i.e. frontage/30 feet): 6 Trees (El Camino Real);
9 trees (Curtner Ave) = 16 trees total
☒
c. Street Trees provided: 9 trees (4 existing + 5 new)
(B)(3) Accent Paving
Parcels abutting University Avenue between Alma Street and Webster include accent
paving along the project frontages, as indicated below: N/A
Brick paving at corners ☐
Brick trim mid-block
☐Parcel abutting California Avenue between El Camino Real and Park Blvd include
decorative glass accent paving along project frontages
(B)(4) Mobility Infrastructure
☒
(A) On-site micromobility infrastructure (e.g. bike racks/lockers) is located within
30 feet of the primary building entry and/or on a path leading to the primary
building entry; OR
AP1.00 Complies
Pi
c
k
O
n
e
☐Existing micromobility infrastructure (e.g. bike racks/lockers) is already
located within 50 feet of project site and located in a public right-of-way.
Pi
c
k
On
e ☒(B) Primary building entries shall provide at least one seating area or bench
within 30 feet of building entry and/or path leading to building entry. On AP2.01 Complies
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(A) arterials (see Map T-5), except Downtown, seating areas or benches
shall not be located between the sidewalk and the curb; OR
☐Existing seating areas or benches that are already located in the public right-of-way
within 50 feet of the building entry.
18.24.030 Site Access
Check Standard Sheet #Applicant’s Justification
(b)(1) Through Lot Connections
☐
Through lots located more than 300 feet from an intersecting street or pedestrian
walkway shall provide a publicly accessible sidewalk or pedestrian walkway (with
public access easements) connecting the two streets.
N/A
(b)(2) Building Entries
☒
Primary Building Entries shall be located from a public right-of-way. If there is no
public right-of-way adjacent to the building, entries shall be located from a private
street or Pedestrian Walkway.
AP1.00
AP2.01 Complies
(b)(3) Vehicle Access
☒(A) Vehicle access shall be located on alleys or side streets when they abut the
property.
AP1.00
AP2.01 Complies
☒
(B) Except for driveway access and short-term loading spaces (e.g. taxi), off-street
parking, off-street vehicle loading (delivery trucks), and vehicular circulation areas
are prohibited between the building and primary building frontage.
AP1.00
AP2.01 Complies
(b)(4) Loading Docks and Service Areas
Loading and service areas shall be integrated into building and landscape design and located to
minimize impact on the pedestrian experience as follows:
AP1.00
AP2.01 Complies
☐(A) Loading docks and service areas shall be located on façades that do not face a
primary building frontage
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☐
(B) Loading docks and service areas located within setback areas shall be
screened by a solid fence, or wall, or dense landscaping and separated from
pedestrian access to the primary building entry to avoid impeding pedestrian
movement/safety.
18.24.040 Building Orientation and Setbacks
Check Standard Sheet #Applicant’s Justification
(b)(1) Building Corner Elements (less than 40 feet in height)
Corner buildings less than 40 feet in height and end units of townhouses or other attached housing products that face the street shall include
all of the following features on their secondary building frontage:
(A) height and width of corner element shall have a ratio greater than 1.2:1. For
townhomes, the width would be equal to the smaller side of one unit?Building above 40 feet
a. Secondary building frontage height: _____ feet
b. Secondary building frontage length: _____ feet
☐
c. Secondary building frontage height to width ratio: ___
(B) minimum of 15% fenestration area.
a. Total secondary building frontage façade area: ___ sf
b. Secondary building frontage façade fenestration area: ___ sf☐
c. Percent of fenestration area _____ %
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☐(C) At least one facade modulation with a minimum depth of 18 inches and a
minimum width of two feet.
(b)(2)(A) & (B) Treatment of Buildings Corners on Corner Lots (40+ feet in height)
Corner Buildings 40 feet or taller in height shall include at least one of the following special features:
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A. Street wall is located at the minimum front yard setback or build-to line for a minimum
aggregated length of 40 feet on both facades meeting at the corner and includes one or
more of the following building features:
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☒i. An entry to ground floor retail or primary building entrance located within
25 feet of the corner of the building.
AP1.00
AP2.01 Complies
☒ii. A different material application and/or fenestration pattern from the rest of
the façade.
AP3.00
AP3.01 Complies
☐iii. A change in height of at least 4 feet greater or less than the height of the
adjacent/abutting primary façade.
B. An open space with a minimum dimension of 20 feet and minimum area of 450 sf. The
open space shall be at least one of the following
☐i. A publicly accessible open space/plaza.
☐ii. A space used for outdoor seating for public dining.
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iii. A residential Common Open Space adjacent to a common interior space
(i.e. lobby, retail, etc.) and less than two feet above adjacent sidewalk grade.
Fences and railing shall be a minimum 50% open/transparent.
(b)(3) Primary Building Entry
The primary building entry meets at least one of the following standards:
☒A. Faces a public right-of-way.AP3.00
AP3.01 Complies
☒B. Faces a publicly accessible pedestrian walkway.AP3.00
AP3.01 Complies
C. Is visible from a public right-of-way through a forecourt or front porch that
meets the following standards:
i. For residential buildings with fewer than seven units, building entry
forecourts or front porch minimum dimensions of (min. 36 sf and min.
dimension of 6 feet required): ___ sf and ___ ft. min. dimension
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☐ii. For commercial buildings or residential buildings with seven or
more units, building entry forecourts or front porch minimum
dimensions of (min. 100 sf and a min. width of 8 feet required): ___ sf
and ___ ft. min. width
(b)(4) Ground Floor Residential Units
A. Finished Floor Height for Ground Floor Units
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☐The finished floor of ground floor residential units, when adjacent to a public right-of-
way, must be within the minimum and maximum heights according to setback distance
from back of walk identified in Figure 2a and 2b of the Zoning Ordinance. Calculate
minimum ground floor finished floor height: AP2.01 No ground floor units
☐Setback adjacent to public right of way:
☐
Minimum ground floor finished floor height: _____ feet
𝒚 = ―
𝟒
𝟏𝟓(𝒙)+ 𝟏𝟔
𝟑 where 𝑥 = setback length from back of walk, in feet
and 𝑦 = ground floor finished floor height, in feet
☐Sites with slopes greater than 2% along building façade – Average height of
finished floor: _____ feet
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☒Sites located in flood zones – the minimum ground floor finished floor height
shall be defined by FEMA, less flood zone elevation: ____ feet
B. Setback Trees
Ground floor units with a setback greater than 15 feet must have at minimum an
average of one tree per 40 linear feet of facade length, within the setback area. AP2.01 No ground floor units
Facade length:
Trees required: tree(s) (i.e. façade length / 40)
☐
Trees provided: tree(s)
C and D. Front Setback
☐C. Ground floor residential entries are setback a minimum of 10 feet from the
back of public sidewalk; OR AP2.01 No ground floor units
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D. Where no minimum building setback is required, all ground floor residential
units must be set back a minimum 5 feet from back of public sidewalk.
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Check Standard Sheet #Applicant’s Justification
E. Unit Entry
A minimum 80% of ground floor residential units that face a public right-of-way or
publicly accessible path, or open space shall have a unit entry with direct access to the
sidewalk, path, or open space for minimum.
AP2.01 No ground floor units
a. Total number of ground floor residential units facing a public right-of-way,
publicly accessible path, or open space:____units
b. 80% of total units in (a): ___units
☐
c. Subset of number of units in (a) that have a unit entry with direct access to the
sidewalk, path, or open space: ____entries
(b)(5) Front Yard Setback Character
Required setbacks provide a hardscape and/or landscaped area to create a transition between
public and private space. The following standards apply, based on intended use and exclusive of
areas devoted to outdoor seating, front porches, door swing of building entries, and publicly
accessible open space and meet the following:
(A). Ground-floor retail or retail like uses have a minimum of 10% of the required
setback as landscape or planters.N/A
i. Minimum setback area (setback x frontage x 10%): ____ sf☐
ii. Landscape or planter area in required setback: ____ sf
(B). Ground-floor residential uses have a minimum of 60% landscaped area in the
required setback area.
i. Minimum setback area (setback x frontage x 60%):
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ii. Landscape area in required setback:
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(b)(6) Side Yard Setback Character
☐
(A) Each detached dwelling unit shall have at least one usable side yard, at least six feet
wide, between the house and fence or other structure, to provide outdoor passage
between the front and rear yards.
N/A
18.24.050 Building Massing
Check Standard Sheet #Notes
(b)(1) Upper Floor Step Backs and Daylight Planes
(A) When the height of the subject building is more than 20 feet above the
average height (i.e. average of low and high roof elevations) of an adjacent
building(s), an upper floor step back shall start within two vertical feet of the
average height of the adjacent building. The step back shall be a minimum depth
of six feet along both the façade on the primary building frontage and the façade
facing the adjacent building, and the step shall occur for a minimum of 70% of
each façade length.
AP2.03
Stepbacks occur on floor three
(24 feet). However, the full 6
feet in depth is not provided for
a minimum of 70% of the façade
length. It is worth noting that in
some areas more than the 6
feet stepback is provided.
i. Proposed building height: 82 feet
ii. Average building height of the adjacent building(s): 33.75 feet
☒
iii. Building height where upper floor step back begins: 24 feet
☐(B) Notwithstanding, subsection (A), when adjacent to a single-story building, the
upper floor step back shall occur between 33 and 37 feet in height.
☒
(C) If a project meets the following criteria, a daylight plane with an initial height
of 25 feet above grade at the property line and a 45-degree angle shall be
required. This daylight plane is required if all of these criteria are met:
i. The project is not subject to a daylight plane requirement, pursuant to
district regulations in Title 18; and
ii. The project proposes a building which is more than 20 feet above the
average height (i.e., average of low and high roof elevations) of an
adjacent building(s); and
iii. The project abuts residential units in the side or rear yard.
AP3.00
AP3.01
AP3.02
AP3.03
The building does not comply
with daylight planes.
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(b)(2) Privacy and Transitions to Residential Uses
When a building abuts a residential use on an interior side and/or rear property line, the building
shall break down the abutting façade and maintain privacy by meeting all of the following:
☒
(A) Landscape Screening. A landscape screen that includes a row of trees with a
minimum one tree per 25 linear feet and continuous shrubbery planting. This
screening plant material shall be a minimum 72 inches (6 feet) in height when
planted. Required trees shall be minimum 24” box size.
AP1.00
AP2.01 Complies
☒(B) Façade Breaks. A minimum façade break of 4 feet in width, 2 feet in depth,
and 32 sf of area (i.e. 8 ft tall minimum) for every 36 to 40 feet of façade length
AP3.01
AP3.02
AP3.03
Complies
☒
(C) Maximum Amount of Transparent Windows. Within 40 feet of an abutting
structure, no more than 15% of the facing façade area shall be windows or other
glazing. Additional windows are allowed in order to maintain light, if fixed and
fully obscured
AP3.01
AP3.02
AP3.03
Complies
(D) Windows. Within 30 feet of facing residential windows (except garage or
common space windows) or private open space on an adjacent residential
building, facing windows on the subject site shall meet the following:
(i) Window sills at and above the 2nd floor shall be at least five feet above
finished floor; or
(ii) Windows shall have opaque or translucent glazing at or below five feet
above finished floor; or
(iii) Windows shall be angled up to 30 degrees (parallel to window) to face
away from the adjacent privacy impacts; and
(iv) Landscape screening shall be 24-inch box size or larger and eight+ feet
height at planting; 50% evergreens; and located to align with proposed
second floor windows at maturity.
AP3.01
AP3.02
AP3.03
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(E). Balconies: Within 30 feet of residential windows (except garage or common
space windows) or private open space on an adjacent residential building,
balconies and decks on the subject site shall be designed to prevent views:
(i) No sight lines to the adjacent property window or open space are
permitted within five feet above the balcony or deck flooring and a 45-
degree angle downward from balcony railing.
(ii) Submit section view of proposed balcony/deck and abutting residential
AP3.01
AP3.02
AP3.03
Complies
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windows and/or private open space.
(iii) Provide balcony/deck design measure which may include:
a. Minimum 85% solid railing
b. Obscure glass railing
c. Barrier with min. 18" horizontal depth from railing (e.g. planter)
(b)(3)(A) & (B) Maximum Façade Length - facing a street or public path
Buildings 70 feet in length or greater and greater than 25 feet in height
For building facades 70 feet in length or greater and facing a public street, right-
of-way, or publicly accessible path shall not have a continuous façade plane
greater than 70% of the façade length without an upper floor modulation, of at
least 2 feet in depth
Not Applicable (see below for
buildings between 150 feet and
250 feet in length)
Largest façade length featuring continuous plane:
Total Façade length:
☐
Percent of façade length without upper floor modulation (a/b) (maximum
70%):
Buildings 250 feet in length or greater
(A) Buildings 250 feet in length or greater, which face a public street, right-of-
way, or publicly accessible path, shall have at least one vertical façade break
with a minimum area greater than 400 sf and a width greater than or equal to
two times the depth
Not Applicable (see below for
buildings between 150 feet and
250 feet in length)
Total Building length:
☐
Number of vertical façade breaks:
Width: 42 feet, Depth: 8 feet, Area:
Buildings between 150 feet and 250 feet in length
(B) Buildings 150 to 250 feet in length, which face a public street, right-of-way, or
publicly accessible path, shall have at least one vertical façade break with a
minimum area greater than 64 sf and a minimum width of 8 feet and
minimum depth of 4 feet.
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Total Building length: 158 feet
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Number of vertical façade breaks: 3
Width: 10 feet, depth 6 feet, area 60 sf
Width: 10 feet, depth 5 feet, area 50 sf
Width: 20 feet, depth 6 feet, area 120 sf = total 230 sf
AP2.03
AP3.01
AP3.02
AP3.03
Complies
Check Standard Sheet #Applicant’s Justification
(b)(4) Special Conditions: Railroad Frontages
All parcels with lot lines abutting railroad rights-of-way shall meet the following standards on the
railroad-abutting façade(s):N/A
☐(A) A minimum facade break of at least 10 feet in width and six feet in depth for
every 60 feet of façade length.
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☐(B) For portions of a building 20 feet or greater in height shall not have a
continuous façade length that exceeds 60 feet.
(b)(5) Diversity of Housing Types
☒
A diversity of housing types (e.g. detached units, attached
rowhouses/townhouses, condominiums or apartments, mixed use) are
required for projects on large lots:
Less than one acre lots: minimum 1 housing types
1 to 2-acre lots: minimum 2 housing types; or
More than 2-acre lots: minimum 3 housing types
Does not Comply. 1.5 acre lot
with 1 housing type
(apartments) proposed
18.24.060 Façade Design
Check
Two or
More
Standard Sheet #Applicant’s Justification
(c)(1) Base-Middle-Top
☒
Buildings three stories or taller and on lots wider than 50 feet shall be designed to differentiate a defined base or ground floor, a
middle or body, and a top, cornice, or parapet cap. Each of these elements shall be distinguished from one another for a minimum of
80% of the façade length through use of three or more of the following four techniques:
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☐
i. Variation in Building Modulation: Building modulation shall extend for a minimum 80%
of the façade length feet, and shall include one or more of the following building
features.
☒a. Horizontal shifts. Changes in floor plates that protrude and/or recess with a
minimum dimension of 2 feet from the primary facade.
AP3.01
AP3.02
AP3.03
Complies
☐
b. Upper floor step backs. A horizontal step back of upper-floor façades with a
minimum 5 foot stepback from the primary façade for a minimum of 80% of
the length of the façade
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c. Ground floor step back. A horizontal shift of the ground floor facade with a
minimum depth of 2 feet for a minimum 80% of the length of the façade.
Ground floor step backs shall not exceed the maximum setback, where stated AP1.00
☒ii. Variation in Façade Articulation: Façade articulation modulation shall include one or
more of the following building features.Complies
☒
a. Horizontal and/or Vertical Recesses or Projections. Recesses or projections
such as a pattern of recessed grouping of windows, recessed panels, bay
windows or similar strategies. The recess or projection shall be a minimum 4
inches in depth.
AP3.00
AP3.01
AP3.02
AP3.03
☒
b. Horizontal and/or Vertical Projections. Projections such as shading,
weather protection devices, decorative architectural details, or similar
strategies.
AP3.00
AP3.01
AP3.02
AP3.03
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c. Datum Lines. Datum lines that continue the length of the building, such as
parapets or cornices, with a minimum 4 inches in height or a minimum 2
inches in depth and include a change in material
☒iii. Variation in two of the following:
AP3.00
AP3.01
AP3.02
AP3.03
Complies
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☒b. Fenestration Proportion
☒c. Fenestration Pattern
☐d. Fenestration Depth or Projection
☒iv. Variation in two of the following:
AP3.00
AP3.01
AP3.02
AP3.03
Complies
☒a. Façade Material
☒b. Facade Material Size
☐c. Façade Texture and Pattern
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☒d. Façade Color
(c)(2) Façade Composition
Building facades shall use a variety of strategies including building modulation, fenestration, and façade articulation to create visual interest and
express a variety of scales through a variety of strategies. All facades shall include a minimum of three of the following façade articulation
strategies to create visual interest:
☒A. Vertical and horizontal recesses such as a pattern of recessed grouping of windows or
recessed panels. The recess shall be a minimum 4 inches in depth.
AP3.00
AP3.01
AP3.02
AP3.03
Complies
☒B. Vertical and horizontal projections such as shading and weather protection devices or
decorative architectural details. Projections shall be a minimum 4 inches in depth.
☒
C. Datum lines that continue the length of the building, such as cornices, with a
minimum 4 inches in depth, or a minimum 2 inches in depth and include a change in
material.
☒D. Balconies, habitable projections, or Juliet balconies (every 20 to 40 feet) with a
minimum 4 inches in depth.
☒E. Screening devices such as lattices, louvers, shading devices, or perforated metal
screens.
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☐F. Use of fine-grained building materials, such as brick or wood shingles, not to exceed 8
inches in either height or width.
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☒G. Incorporate a minimum of three colors, materials, and/or textures across the whole
building.
(c)(3) Compatible Rhythm and Pattern
(A) Buildings shall express a vertical rhythm and pattern that reflects the size and scale of a housing unit and/or individual rooms and spaces.
This may be achieved with building modulation to create vertically oriented façades (height greater than the width of the façade), façade
articulation and fenestration repetitive vertically oriented patterns. Depending on the length of the façade, the following standards apply:
☐
i. For continuous façades less than 100 feet in length, the façade shall have vertically
oriented patterns of vertical recesses or projections, façade articulation, and/or
fenestration.
ii. For continuous façades 100 feet or greater in length, the façade shall include either:
☒
a. A vertical recess or change in façade plane with a minimum 2 feet deep vertical
shift modulation for a minimum 4 feet in width to establish a vertical rhythm
between 20 to 50 feet in width; OR
AP3.00
AP3.01
AP3.02
AP3.03
Complies
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☐b. A vertical recess or projection with a minimum depth of 2 feet that establishes
the vertical rhythm between 10 to 16 feet in width
(B) Residential mixed-use buildings
☐i. Vertical Patterns and Modulation: Façades shall use vertical patterns of building
modulation, façade articulation, and fenestration.
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ii. Horizontal Patterns and Modulation: Façades that use horizontal articulation and
fenestration patterns shall use a vertical massing strategy with a minimum 4 feet
wide and 2 feet deep vertical shift in modulation at least once every 50 feet of
façade length.
(C) Storefronts
☐Storefront uses must express a vertical rhythm not to exceed 30 to 50 feet in width.
(c)(4) Emphasize Building Elements & Massing
(A)(i) Building Entries within Façade Design. Primary building entries shall be scaled proportionally to
the number of people served (amount of floor-area or number of units accessed). Building entries
shall meet the following minimum dimensions:
C h e c k A ll☐a. Individual residential entries:
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☒b. Shared residential entry, such as mixed-use buildings: AP3.00
AP3.01 Complies
☐c. Commercial building entry:
☐d. Storefront entry:
(ii) Primary building entries (not inclusive of individual residential entries) shall include a façade
modulation that includes at least one of the following:
☐a. Recess or projection from the primary façade plane (minimum 2 feet).
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☒b. Weather protection that is a minimum 4 feet wide and 4 feet deep by recessing
the entry, providing an awning or using a combination of these methods
AP3.00
AP3.01 Complies
(c)(5) Storefront/Retail Ground Floors
A. Ground floor height shall be a minimum 14 feet floor-to-floor OR shall maintain a 2nd
floor datum line of an abutting building.
AP3.00
AP3.01 Complies
a. Ground floor height (minimum 14 feet): 15 feet; OR☒
b. Height of 2nd floor datum line of abutting building:
B. Transparency shall include a minimum 60% transparent glazing between 2 and 10 feet in
height from sidewalk, providing unobstructed views into the commercial space.
a. Façade area between 2 feet and 10 feet:
b. Transparent glazing area between 2 feet and 10 feet:
☐
c. Percentage of transparent glazing (minimum 60%):
☐C. If provided, bulkheads and solid base walls measure between 12 and 30 inches from
finished grade
D. Primary entries shall include weather protection by recessing the entry, providing an
awning or using a combination of these methods.
a. Weather protection width (minimum 6 feet): 20 feet AP3.00
AP3.01 Complies☒
b. Weather protection depth (minimum 4 feet): 4 feet AP3.00
AP3.01
☒
E. Awnings, canopies and weather protection: (i) When transom windows are above
display windows, awnings, canopies and similar, weather protection elements shall be
installed between transom and display windows. These elements should allow for light to
AP3.00
AP3.01 Complies
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enter the storefront through the transom windows and allow the weather protection
feature to shade the display window. (ii) Awnings may be fixed or retractable
(c)(6) Other Non-Residential Ground Floors
☐(A) Ground floor height must be a minimum 14 feet floor-to-floor OR match the 2nd floor
datum line of an abutting building N/A
☐Ground floor height (minimum 14 feet): _____ feet; OR
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(B) Minimum of 50% transparent glazing between 4 and 10 feet in height from sidewalk or
terrace grade, providing unobstructed views into the commercial space
Façade area between 2 feet and 10 feet:
Transparent glazing area:
☐
Percentage of transparent glazing (minimum 50%):
(C) Primary entries include weather protection that is a minimum 6 feet wide and 4 feet
deep by recessing the entry, providing an awning or using a combination of these methods.
Weather protection width (minimum 6 feet): ☐
Weather protection depth (minimum 4 feet):
(c)(7) Parking/Loading/Utilities
(A) Entry Size
No more than 25% of the site frontage facing a street shall be devoted to garage openings,
carports, surface parking, loading entries, or utilities access. On sites with less than 100
feet of frontage, no more than 25 feet.
AP3.00
AP3.01 Complies
Site frontage: 234 feet Curtner Avenue
Frontage devoted to garage openings, carports, surface parking, loading entries, or
utilities access: 11 % ( 26 feet)
☒
Percent of frontage devoted to garage openings, carports, surface parking, loading
entries, or utilities access 11%
(B) Above Ground Structured Parking
☒
Above grade structured parking levels facing a public right-of-way or publicly accessible
open space/path, with the exception of vehicular alleys, must be lined with commercial or
habitable uses with a minimum depth of 20 feet
AP3.00
AP3.01 Complies
Item 7
Attachment D - Objective Standards
Consistency Analysis
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 63 Packet Pg. 95 of 212
City of Palo Alto - Objective Design Standards Checklist
Page 17
(C)&(D) Partially Sub-Grade Structured Parking
☐Partially sub-grade parking must not have an exposed façade that exceeds 5 feet in height
above abutting grade at back of sidewalk. N/A
☐Partially sub-grade parking must be screened with continuous landscaping and shrubbery
with minimum height of 3 feet and be located within 10 feet of the sub-grade parking.
18.24.080 Open Space
Check Standard Sheet #Applicant’s Justification
(b)(1) Private Open Space
☒
(A) Floor area includes clear space with a minimum dimension of a circle with a six-
foot diameter.
Does not comply. Some of the
units with balconies can not
have a clear space with a
minimum dimension of a circle
with a 6 foot diameter.
However, the total open space
amount exceeds the
requirement for the site.
☒(B) Minimum clear height dimension of 8’-6” feet. Complies
☒(C) Directly accessible from a residential unit.Complies
☐(C) Balconies are not located within the daylight plane.
(b)(1)(E) Private Open Space - Ground Floor Patios
☐
(i) RM-20 and RM-30 districts: Minimum 100 sf of area, the least dimension of which is
8 feet for at least 75% of the area.
☐
(ii) RM-40 districts: Minimum 80 sf of area, the least dimension of which is 6 feet for at
least 75% of the area
☐(iii) Street facing private open space on the ground floor shall meet the finished floor
height for ground floor residential standards in section 18.24.040(b)(4)
Item 7
Attachment D - Objective Standards
Consistency Analysis
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 64 Packet Pg. 96 of 212
City of Palo Alto - Objective Design Standards Checklist
Page 18
(b)(2) Common Open Space
☒
(A)&(B) Minimum 200 sf of area. Area shall include a
space with a minimum dimension of a circle with a
10-foot diameter.
AP2.03
AP2.07 Complies
☒
(C) A minimum of 60% of the area shall be open to
the sky and free of permanent weather protection
or encroachments. Trellises and similar open-air
features allowed
AP2.03
AP2.07
☒
(D) Notwithstanding subsection (1), courtyards
enclosed on four sides shall have a minimum
dimension of 40 feet and have a minimum courtyard
width to building height ratio of 1:1.25
AP2.03
AP2.07
☒(E) Common open space provides seating. AP2.03
AP2.07
☒(F) Common open space has a minimum 20% of
landscaping.
AP2.03
AP2.07
☒
(G) Planting in above grade courtyards has minimum
soil depth of 12 inches for ground cover, 20 inches
for shrubs, and 36 inches for trees.
18.24.090 Materials
Check Standard Sheet #Applicant’s Justification
☒
(b)(1) Primary, secondary, and accent materials are allowed or prohibited as in the
Residential and Residential Mixed-use Material List, which may be updated from time
to time by the Director of Planning with a recommendation by the ARB. See webpage
for list - https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/News-Articles/Planning-and-Development-
Services/Multifamily-Mixed-Use-Objective-Standards
Materials Comply
18.24.100 Sustainability and Green Building Code
Check Standard Sheet #Applicant’s Justification
Item 7
Attachment D - Objective Standards
Consistency Analysis
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 65 Packet Pg. 97 of 212
City of Palo Alto - Objective Design Standards Checklist
Page 19
☒
(b) See Chapter 16.14: California Green Building Standards additional requirements for
green building and sustainable design. Notwithstanding Section 18.24.010(c), these
regulations may not be modified through alternative compliance.
Project is conditioned to comply
with Calgreen Tier 2.
Item 7
Attachment D - Objective Standards
Consistency Analysis
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 66 Packet Pg. 98 of 212
From:Michelle Lin
To:Switzer, Steven
Subject:Re: Questions application #: 24PLN-00161
Date:Friday, March 28, 2025 10:27:37 AM
Attachments:image001.png
image002.png
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links.
Hi Steven,
Yes, please add me to the update of 3781 El Camino Real email loops.
Have a nice weekend!
Thanks,
Michelle
On Wed, Mar 19, 2025 at 8:20 AM Switzer, Steven <Steven.Switzer@cityofpaloalto.org>
wrote:
Hi Michelle-
There is no scheduled meeting time. You can keep up to date with the project’s webpage at
the following link: 3781 El Camino Real – City of Palo Alto, CA
We don’t have an automated email, but I can add your name to a list to update as the project
moves through the review process.
Steven Switzer
Historic Preservation Planner
Planning and Development Services Department
650-329-2321 | Steven.Switzer@CityofPaloAlto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org
Item 7
Attachment E - Public
Comments
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 67 Packet Pg. 99 of 212
From: Michelle Lin <alimus1123@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, March 13, 2025 8:57 PM
To: Switzer, Steven <Steven.Switzer@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Subject: Re: Questions application #: 24PLN-00161
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links.
Hi Steven,
Thanks for the information. It's very clear. I have two more questions as follows.
1) When is the hearing time? Can we find the schedule online?
2) Is it possible to sign up for an update like a newsletter for this property?
Thanks,
Michelle
On Wed, Mar 5, 2025 at 8:34 AM Switzer, Steven <Steven.Switzer@cityofpaloalto.org>
wrote:
Hi Michelle-
The project is still under review. Construction for the project would not occur anytime
soon.
The project would need to complete its planning entitlements and environmental review
before any construction could start.
Item 7
Attachment E - Public
Comments
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 68 Packet Pg. 100 of 212
Below are some directions to view the project plans online and see status updates :
1. Go to: https://paloalto.buildingeye.com/planning
2. Search for “3781 El Camino” and open record by clicking on the green
dot. You will need to select the application # 25PLN-00161.
3. Review the record details on the left side. There you will see a status
updates section.
4. To review the plans open the “more details” option.
5. Use the “Records Info” drop down menu and select “Attachments”
6. Open the attachment named “C4_3781 ECR_PLANNING
SET_PLANS.pdf” and dated 2/10/2025 to review the plan set.
Steven Switzer
Historic Preservation Planner
Planning and Development Services Department
650-329-2321 | Steven.Switzer@CityofPaloAlto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org
From: Michelle Lin <alimus1123@gmail.com>
Sent: Friday, February 28, 2025 8:11 AM
To: Switzer, Steven <Steven.Switzer@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Subject: Questions application #: 24PLN-00161
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be
Item 7
Attachment E - Public
Comments
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 69 Packet Pg. 101 of 212
Hi Steven,
I'm a tenant on Curtner Ave. I'm wondering how the progress is now for the 3781 El
Camino Real project since my family plans to move to another location before all the
construction starts. And where can I see the update status for this planning development?
Thanks,
Michelle
Item 7
Attachment E - Public
Comments
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 70 Packet Pg. 102 of 212
From:Kenneth Streib
To:Switzer, Steven
Subject:Re: 400 Curtner --- 3781 El Camino Real (24PLN-00161)
Date:Tuesday, July 2, 2024 9:06:36 PM
Attachments:image002.png
image001.png
image004.png
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links.
You hae indicted a parking space to unit ratio of about 1.14 or so. It seems many
renters around here are couples and both work so at LEAST two cars per unit. Lots
of single renters will have two cars, and there might be couples with three cars. This
is all evidenced by the fact that there is NO street parking on Curtner.
Thanks,
Ken Streib
On Friday, June 28, 2024 at 03:40:43 PM PDT, Switzer, Steven <steven.switzer@cityofpaloalto.org>
wrote:
I am the project planner –feel free to send the comments to me.
Once we get further along in the review process the project may be scheduled for
public hearing at which time I can provide you information on how to attend/
participate in said meetings.
We are in the very early stages of review.
The application submittal may require revisions in response to varying City
Department comments on the project.
Once I have more information, I would be happy to share it with you.
Steven Switzer
Historic Preservation Planner
Item 7
Attachment E - Public
Comments
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 71 Packet Pg. 103 of 212
Planning and Development Services Department
650-329-2321 | Steven.Switzer@CityofPaloAlto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org
From: Kenneth Streib <ken_streib@yahoo.com>
Sent: Friday, June 28, 2024 3:14 PM
To: Switzer, Steven <Steven.Switzer@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Subject: Re: 400 Curtner --- 3781 El Camino Real (24PLN-00161)
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening
attachments and clicking on links.
THanks so much for your timely response. And where would be the best place to
comment? email to city council?
Thanks,
Ken Streib
On Friday, June 28, 2024 at 08:55:20 AM PDT, Switzer, Steven <steven.switzer@cityofpaloalto.org>
wrote:
Item 7
Attachment E - Public
Comments
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 72 Packet Pg. 104 of 212
Currently there are 177 units proposed with 203 proposed parking spaces in a parking garage.
We are in the early stages of reviewing the project. You are more than welcome to comment on the
project and provide any concerns in writing as it progresses through the review process.
Steven Switzer
Historic Preservation Planner
Planning and Development Services Department
650-329-2321 | Steven.Switzer@CityofPaloAlto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org
From: Kenneth Streib <ken_streib@yahoo.com>
Sent: Thursday, June 27, 2024 7:56 PM
To: Switzer, Steven <Steven.Switzer@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Subject: Re: 400 Curtner --- 3781 El Camino Real (24PLN-00161)
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening
attachments and clicking on links.
I think the sign is back up or I was just missing it once. I hope this is enough parking, but I fear probably
not. If it is not, and they start parking on the street, is there any sort of recourse for us who live here
now?
Thanks,
Ken
Item 7
Attachment E - Public
Comments
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 73 Packet Pg. 105 of 212
On Thursday, June 27, 2024 at 04:10:26 PM PDT, Switzer, Steven <steven.switzer@cityofpaloalto.org>
wrote:
I spoke with the applicant regarding this.
Once I have an update I can relay that information over to you.
Steven Switzer
Historic Preservation Planner
Planning and Development Services Department
650-329-2321 | Steven.Switzer@CityofPaloAlto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org
From: McKay, Scott <Scott.McKay@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Sent: Thursday, June 27, 2024 10:05 AM
To: ken_streib@yahoo.com
Cc: Switzer, Steven <Steven.Switzer@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Subject: RE: 400 Curtner --- 3781 El Camino Real (24PLN-00161)
Hi Ken,
The address that the project was filed under is 3781 El Camino and the Planning
application number is 24PLN-00161. The public notice signage may have been moved to
Item 7
Attachment E - Public
Comments
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 74 Packet Pg. 106 of 212
Item 7
Attachment E - Public
Comments
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 75 Packet Pg. 107 of 212
attachments and clicking on links.
I notice that the sign came down. Does that mean it was perhaps in the wrong place?
Thanks,
Ken Streib
----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Kenneth Streib <ken_streib@yahoo.com>
To: City Mgr <citymgr@cityofpaloalto.org>
Sent: Thursday, June 20, 2024 at 09:55:28 PM PDT
Subject: 400 Curtner
Greetings,
I noticed a new project going up at 400 Curtner. Does the city council decide these things? I was wondering what
the parking provisions will be at this new building.
Thanks so much for your time,
Ken Streib
Item 7
Attachment E - Public
Comments
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 76 Packet Pg. 108 of 212
560 Mission Street, Suite 1900 | San Francisco, CA 94105 | T 415.743.6900 | F 415.743.6910
-743-6990
-743-6979
Atlanta | Austin | Birmingham | Boston | Century City | Charlotte | Chattanooga | Chicago | Dallas | Denver | Fort Lauderdale
Houston | Jacksonville | Los Angeles | Miami | Nashville | Newport Beach | New York | Orlando | Philadelphia | Portland
April 29, 2026
- 5th Floor
Re: Invocation of “Builder’s Remedy 2.0” Under AB 1893, and CEQA Compliance
for the Housing Development Project at 3781 El Camino Real (24PLN-00161)
Dear All:
This firm represents Vittoria Management, Inc. (the “Applicant”) in connection with its application
for a housing development project consisting of 183 multifamily units (the “Project”) at 3781 El
Camino Real (the “Project Site”) in Palo Alto (the “City”). The City determined the Project’s
application complete for Permit Streamlining Act purposes on March 17, 2025. As explained in
more detail in our previous communication, the Project is protected by the Housing Accountability
Act (the “HAA”) inclusive of the Builder’s Remedy provision. The Applicant has also secured
vested rights to develop the Project pursuant to the Housing Crisis Act of 2019 (“SB 330”). The
purposes of this letter are to:
1. Document the Project’s eligibility for and affirmatively invoke the protections of Assembly
Bill (“AB”) 1893, also known as “Builder’s Remedy 2.0”; and
2. Document the Project’s eligibility for the protections of AB 1633 and the “Infill
Exemption” from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), pursuant to CEQA
Guidelines Section 15332.
AB 1893’s Protections and Its Applicability
AB 1893 went into effect on January 1, 2025 and provides significant new protections for Builder’s
Remedy projects. Importantly, its new protections extend to proposals, including the Project, that
predate AB 1893’s effective date.1 AB 1893 allows Builder’s Remedy projects to include 13% low
1 See Gov. Code § 65589.5(f)(7)(A) (as amended by AB 1893) (“For a housing development project application that
is deemed complete before January 1, 2025, the development proponent for the project may choose to be subject to
the provisions of this section that were in place on the date the preliminary application was submitted, or, if the project
Item 7
Attachment F - Applicant’s
Project Description
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 77 Packet Pg. 109 of 212
Palo Alto Planning Department
April 29, 2026
Page 2
#519811052_v3
income units,2 and for in-process projects switching to Builder’s Remedy 2.0 to make
modifications to their proposal even if they exceed a 20% change in units or square footage.3
The Applicant is hereby electing to convert to Builder’s Remedy 2.0 and include 13% low income
units (23 total units when calculated as a portion of the Project’s units totally which is below the
base maximum per AB 1893) in the now-revised Project. The Applicant reserves all rights it has
including under the HAA as amended by AB 1893, or any other state or local laws, to return to its
original proposal for the Project if warranted at a later time.
In addition to the above-described provisions, AB 1893 includes the following notable protections,
of which we wish to remind the City:
• Local agencies may not require a Builder’s Remedy 2.0 Project to apply for or receive
approval of a general plan amendment, specific plan amendment, rezoning, or other
legislative approval.4 Local agencies also may not require a Builder’s Remedy 2.0 Project
to apply for or receive any approval or permit not generally required of a non-Builder’s
Remedy project of the same type and density.5
• Local agencies may not adopt or impose any requirements (including fees), or undertaking
any course of conduct, with respect to Builder’s Remedy 2.0 Projects that do not apply to
other projects.6
• Builder’s Remedy 2.0 Projects are deemed consistent with all applicable local standards
and plans, and may not be treated as nonconforming uses.7
• Prior to AB 1893, the HAA provided only that jurisdictions could not “disapprove”
Builder’s Remedy projects, or condition such projects in a manner that rendered the
affordable portion of the project infeasible. AB 1893 has significantly expanded the scope
of prohibited actions. In addition to prohibiting a local agency from voting to disapprove a
Builder’s Remedy 2.0 Project, AB 1893 also notably prohibits local agencies from:
meets the definition of a builder’s remedy project, it may choose to be subject to any or all of the provisions of this
section applicable as of January 1, 2025.”). See also Gov. Code § 65589.5(h)(5) (“Notwithstanding any other law,
until January 1, 2030, ‘deemed complete’ means that the applicant has submitted a preliminary application pursuant
to Section 65941.1 or, if the applicant has not submitted a preliminary application, has submitted a complete
application pursuant to Section 65943.”) (emphasis added).
2 Gov. Code §§ 65589.5(d); (h)(3)(C)(i)(III) (as amended by AB 1893).
3 Gov. Code § 65589.5(f)(7)(B) (as amended by AB 1893).
4 Gov. Code § 65589.5(f)(6)(D)(i) (as amended by AB 1893).
5 Gov. Code § 65589.5(f)(6)(D)(ii) (as amended by AB 1893).
6 Gov. Code § 65589.5(f)(6)(E) (as amended by AB 1893).
7 Gov. Code § 65589.5(f)(6)(D)(iii) (as amended by AB 1893).
Item 7
Attachment F - Applicant’s
Project Description
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 78 Packet Pg. 110 of 212
Palo Alto Planning Department
April 29, 2026
Page 3
#519811052_v3
o Taking a “final administrative action” (other than a vote) that functions as a project
disapproval;8
o Subjecting a Builder’s Remedy 2.0 to more than five hearings;9
o Wrongfully determining that a Builder’s Remedy 2.0 Project preliminary
application has expired or failed to establish vested rights in contravention of the
Permit Streamlining Act;10
o Maintaining a “course of conduct undertaken for an improper purpose” that
functions as an “effective disapproval” of a Builder’s Remedy 2.0 Project.11
• AB 1893 also expands the HAA’s prohibition on unlawful conditioning. The local agency
is now prohibited from imposing any condition that would render the Builder’s Remedy
2.0 Project as a whole infeasible (rather than just the affordable component of the
project).12 The local agency is also now specifically prohibited from imposing a
combination of conditions that would render the Builder’s Remedy 2.0 Project infeasible.13
The Project qualifies for AB 1893, as documented in the following chart:
Summary of AB 1893 Criteria Project Consistency
Affordability (Gov. Code §
65589.5(h)(11)(A)).
The project is a housing development project
that provides housing for very low, low-, or
moderate-income households.
Gov. Code § 65589.5(h)(3): 55 years for
rental units, 45 years for ownership units.
“Housing for mixed-income households” =
• At least 7 % “extremely low income” ;
or
• At least 10 % “very low income”; or
•
Does the project satisfy one of the applicable
affordability percentage requirements?
• Yes, the Project includes 13% low
income units, calculated as a portion
of the Project unit total (which is less
than the base maximum per AB 1893).
Will the affordability of these units be ensured
for the required period?
• Yes, the Applicant will ensure
affordability of the rental units for 55
years.
8 Gov. Code § 65589.5(h)(6)(A) (as amended by AB 1893).
9 Gov. Code § 65589.5(h)(6)(E) (as amended by AB 1893).
10 Gov. Code § 65589.5(h)(6)(H) (as amended by AB 1893).
11 Gov. Code § 65589.5(h)(6)(D) (as amended by AB 1893).
12 Gov. Code § 65589.5(d) (as amended by AB 1893).
13 Gov. Code § 65589.5(f)(6)(B) (as amended by AB 1893).
Item 7
Attachment F - Applicant’s
Project Description
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 79 Packet Pg. 111 of 212
Palo Alto Planning Department
April 29, 2026
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#519811052_v3
Summary of AB 1893 Criteria Project Consistency
•
site smaller than 1 acre, proposed at
Housing element compliance (Gov. Code §
65589.5(h)(11)(B)).
When application was “deemed complete”
(this includes submission of SB 330
preliminary application or formal
application)14 the jurisdiction did not have a
housing element that was in substantial
compliance 15 with this article.
At the time of preliminary application
submittal (or, if no preliminary application
was submitted, the time of submission of a
complete formal application), was the
jurisdiction’s housing element certified as
substantially compliant by HCD or a court of
competent jurisdiction?
• No – project qualifies for this
requirement.
Maximum density (Gov. Code §
65589.5(h)(11)(C)).
Must comply with the greatest of the
following densities (plus can add any density
bonus per State Density Bonus Law):
(i) The density does not exceed the greatest
of the following densities:
(I) Fifty percent greater than the minimum
density deemed appropriate to
accommodate housing for that jurisdiction
as specified in subparagraph (B) of
paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section
65583.2 16 (this is known as the “Mullen
density”).
Does the project comply with the applicable
maximum density?
• Yes – Explanation below
Using the options at left, we have identified
the highest density for each APN of the
Project Site, and calculated a weighted
average by percentage of the site (63,025
square feet total) that each APN represents, to
determine the base maximum density per AB
1893, as follows:
APN 132-41-019 = 40 per comprehensive
plan x 3 = 120 du/acre + 35 for “highest
resource” tract = 155 du/acre
14 Gov. Code § 65589.5(h)(5).
15 See Gov. Code § 65589.55(a) (“For purposes of a local agency’s approval, conditional approval, or disapproval of
a housing development project pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 65589.5, a housing element or amendment
shall be considered in substantial compliance with this article only if the element or amendment was in substantial
compliance, as determined by the department or a court of competent jurisdiction, when a preliminary application,
including all of the information required by subdivision (a) of Section 65941.1, was submitted or, if a preliminary
application was not submitted, when a complete application pursuant to Section 65943 was submitted.”).
16 “The following densities shall be deemed appropriate to accommodate housing for lower income households: (i)
For an incorporated city within a nonmetropolitan county and for a nonmetropolitan county that has a micropolitan
area: sites allowing at least 15 units per acre. (ii) For an unincorporated area in a nonmetropolitan county not
included in clause (i): sites allowing at least 10 units per acre. (iii) For a suburban jurisdiction: sites allowing at least
Item 7
Attachment F - Applicant’s
Project Description
Item 7: Staff Report Pg. 80 Packet Pg. 112 of 212
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Summary of AB 1893 Criteria Project Consistency
general plan, zoning ordinance, or state
law, whichever is greater.
(III) The density that is consistent with the
density specified in the housing element.
Add 35 du/acre to the maximum
summarized above, if any portion of the site
is located within any of the following:
(I) One-half mile of a major transit stop.17
(II) A very low vehicle travel area.
(III) A high or highest resource census
tract, as identified by the latest edition of
the “CTCAC/HCD Opportunity Map.”18
•
155 = 13.839 du/acre
APN 132-41-020 = 40 per comprehensive
plan x 3 = 120 du/acre + 35 for “highest
resource” tract = 155 du/acre
• 29,618 square feet/ 63,025 square feet
x 155 = 72.841 du/acre
APN 132-41-083 = 30 mullen + 50% = 45
du/acre + 35 for “highest resource” tract = 80
du/acre
• 18,376 square feet/ 63,025 square feet
x 80 = 23.325 du/acre
APN 132-41-084 = 30 mullen + 50% = 45
du/acre + 35 for “high resource” tract = 80
du/acre
• 9,160 square feet/ 63,025 square feet
x 80 = 11.627 du/acre
13.839 + 72.841 + 23.325 + 11.627 = 121.63
(rounded to 122) du/acre maximum for the
Property under B.R. 2.0, prior to using any
State Density Bonus Law bonus yields a 177
unit “base” maximum. The State Density
Bonus Law grants a 24.5% bonus for a project
that includes 13% low income units. (Govt.
Code § 65915(f)(1)) Here that allows up to
220 units. The Project’s proposed 183 units
20 units per acre. (iv) For a jurisdiction in a metropolitan county: sites allowing at least 30 units per acre.” Gov.
Code § 65583.2(c)(3)(B).
17 “‘Major transit stop’ means a site containing any of the following: (a) An existing rail or bus rapid transit station.
(b) A ferry terminal served by either a bus or rail transit service. (c) The intersection of two or more major bus
routes with a frequency of service interval of 15 minutes or less during the morning and afternoon peak commute
periods.” Pub. Res. Code § 21064.3.
18 See HCD, 2024 CTCAC Opportunity Map (https://belonging.berkeley.edu/final-2024-ctcac-hcd-opportunity-
map).
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Project Description
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Summary of AB 1893 Criteria Project Consistency
The affordability requirement for AB 1893 is
Minimum density (Gov. Code §
65589.5(h)(11)(D)).
(i) On sites that have a minimum density
requirement and are located within 1/2 mile of
a commuter rail station or a heavy rail station,
cannot go below the minimum.
(ii) On all other sites with a minimum density
requirement, the density of the project shall
not be less than the local agency’s minimum
density or 1/2 of the “Mullen density,”
whichever is lower.19
Does the site have a minimum density
requirement under the local zoning
ordinance? If so, does the project satisfy the
statutory minimum density requirements? If
not, can it be revised to do so?
• Not applicable here – project
qualifies
Site restrictions (Gov. Code §
65589.5(h)(11)(E)).
The project site does not abut a site where
more than one-third of the square footage on
the site has been used, within the past three
years, by a heavy industrial use, or a Title V
industrial use, as those terms are defined in
Section 65913.16.20
Does the project site abut a disqualifying
industrial site?
• No
19“The following densities shall be deemed appropriate to accommodate housing for lower income households: (i) For
an incorporated city within a nonmetropolitan county and for a nonmetropolitan county that has a micropolitan area:
sites allowing at least 15 units per acre. (ii) For an unincorporated area in a nonmetropolitan county not included in
clause (i): sites allowing at least 10 units per acre. (iii) For a suburban jurisdiction: sites allowing at least 20 units per
acre. (iv) For a jurisdiction in a metropolitan county: sites allowing at least 30 units per acre.” Gov. Code §
65583.2(c)(3)(B).
20 Gov. Code § 65913.16(b): (4) “Heavy industrial use” means a use that is a source, other than a Title V source, as
defined by Section 39053.5 of the Health and Safety Code, that is subject to permitting by a district, as defined in
Section 39025 of the Health and Safety Code,20 pursuant to Division 26 (commencing with Section 39000) of the
Health and Safety Code or the federal Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 7401 et seq.). A use where the only source
permitted by a district is an emergency backup generator, and the source is in compliance with permitted emissions
and operating limits, is not a heavy industrial use. […] (11) “Title V industrial use” means a use that is a Title V
source, as defined in Section 39053.5 of the Health and Safety Code.20
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The Project’s Eligibility for the Protections of AB 1633 and a CEQA Infill Exemption
We first note for informational purposes that the Project is eligible for the protections of AB 1633,
which became effective January 1, 2024, as documented in more detail in the below chart. Under
AB 1633, it is now a violation of the HAA to fail to grant qualifying projects a CEQA exemption,
where there is substantial evidence in the record that the project is eligible for such an exemption.
AB 1633 limits the City’s authority to require analysis that is not legally required and beyond the
limited scope of its discretion.
AB 1633 Eligibility Criteria Project Consistency
[S]ubstantial evidence in the record before the local agency that the housing development
project is not located . . .” in the following areas:21
zone 22 coastal zone.
of statewide importance . . .
designated on the maps prepared by
the Farmland Mapping and
Monitoring Program of the
Department of Conservation, or land
zoned or designated for agricultural
protection or preservation by a local
ballot measure that was approved by
the voters of that jurisdiction.”23
farmland of statewide importance by the California
Department of Conservation.24 The Project site is not
zoned or designated for agricultural protection, but
rather is zoned for urban uses and surrounded by other
urban uses.
and does not contain wetlands.
Cortese List “or a hazardous waste
site designated by the Department of
Toxic Substances Control,” unless
the Department of Toxic Substances
21 Gov. Code § 65589.5.1(a)(1): On a site specified in subparagraphs (A) to (C), inclusive, or subparagraphs (E) to
(K), inclusive, of paragraph (6) of subdivision (a) of Section 65913.4.”
22 Gov. Code § 65913.4(a)(6)(A) (as amended by SB 423 (2023)).
23 Gov. Code § 65913.4(a)(6)(B).
24 See https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/DLRP/CIFF/, last accessed April 13, 2025.
25 Gov. Code § 65913.4(a)(6)(C) (“as defined in the United States Fish and Wildlife Service Manual, Part 660 FW 2
(June 21, 1993)”).
27 California Environmental Protection Agency Cortese List: https://calepa.ca.gov/sitecleanup/corteselist/, last
visited April 12, 2025.
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AB 1633 Eligibility Criteria Project Consistency
uses.26
fault zone, “unless the development
complies with applicable seismic
protection building code standards
adopted by the California Building
Standards Commission . . ., and by
any local building department . . ..”28
earthquake fault zone.29
subject to inundation by the 1
percent chance of flood,” unless the
project has been issued a Letter of
Map Revision or flood plain
development permit.30
which is not a special flood hazard area.31
project has received a no-rise
certification.32
an adopted natural community
conservation plan . . ., habitat
conservation plan . . ., or other
adopted natural resource protection
plan.”34
not identified for conservation.
identified as candidate, sensitive, or
species of special status by state or
and surrounded by urban uses. We do not anticipate the
Project site contains such habitat.
26 Gov. Code § 65913.4(a)(6)(E).
28 Gov. Code § 65913.4(a)(6)(F).
29 See https://usgs.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=5a6038b3a1684561a9b0aadf88412fcf, last
accessed April 13, 2025.
30 Gov. Code § 65913.4(a)(6)(G).
31 See https://hazards-
fema.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8b0adb51996444d4879338b5529aa9cd, last accessed
April 13, 2025.
32 Gov. Code § 65913.4(a)(6)(H).
33 See https://hazards-
fema.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8b0adb51996444d4879338b5529aa9cd, last accessed
April 13, 2025.
34 Gov. Code § 65913.4(a)(6)(I).
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AB 1633 Eligibility Criteria Project Consistency
species, or species protected by the
Federal Endangered Species Act . . .,
the California Endangered Species
Act . . ., or the Native Plant
Protection Act . . ..”35
easement.”36 easements recorded on the Project site, based on the
Project’s title report.
severity zone, as determined by the
Department of Forestry and Fire
Protection.”37
Hazard Severity Zone within the State Responsibility
Area as determined by CALFire.38
The project’s parcel(s) is legal and located “within an urbanized area 39 and meets one or
the more of the following criteria . . ..”40
distance” of “a high quality transit
corridor,” as defined in Public
Resources Code Section 21155(b),
or “a major transit stop,” as defined
in Pub. Res. Code Section
21064.3.41
qualifies under one or more other criteria.
travel area”42 qualifies under one or more other criteria.
35 Gov. Code § 65913.4(a)(6)(J).
36 Gov. Code § 65913.4(a)(6)(K).
37 Gov. Code § 65589.5.1(a)(1)(B) (“Within a very high fire hazard severity zone, as determined by the Department
of Forestry and Fire Protection pursuant to Section 51178, or within a high or very high fire hazard severity zone as
indicated on maps adopted by the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection pursuant to Section 4202 of the Public
Resources Code.”).
38 See https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/what-we-do/community-wildfire-preparedness-and-mitigation/fire-hazard-severity-
zones, last accessed April 13, 2025.
39 A parcel is within an urbanized area if it meets the definition provided in Public Resources Code Section 21071.
Gov. Code § 65589.5.1(b)(5). The Project site is located in an urbanized area because Palo Alto is a qualifying
incorporated city because its population, when combined with the populations of contiguous cities Menlo Park and
East Palo Alto, is greater than 100,000.
40 Gov. Code § 65589.5.1(a)(2).
41 Gov. Code § 65589.5.1(a)(2)(A).
42 Gov. Code § 65589.5.1(a)(2)(B).
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AB 1633 Eligibility Criteria Project Consistency
. . . as of the date of the”
application’s submittal.43
A project is proximal an amenity if it
is within:
• .5 mile of “[a] bus station” or
“[a] ferry terminal”; OR
1 mile of “[a] supermarket or
grocery store,” “public park,”
“community center,” “pharmacy or
drugstore,” “medical clinic or
hospital,” “public library,” or school
serving any grade - kindergarten to
12th grade.44
Community Playing Fields; Grocery Outlet; Barron
Park Elementary School; Cornelis Bol Park; and likely
others. Analysis not required because the Project
qualifies under one or more other criteria. – see row
immediately below.
(or 3 sides of a 4 sided project site)
is adjoined by urban uses.45
shown on Google Maps.
The project’s density meets the following criteria
units per acre.”46 du/ac.
43 Gov. Code § 65589.5.1(a)(2)(C).
44 Gov. Code § 65589.5.1(b)(4).
45 Gov. Code § 65589.5.1(a)(2)(D).
46 Gov. Code § 65589.5.1(a)(3).
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AB 1633 Eligibility Criteria Project Consistency
“There is substantial evidence in the record that”
•
exemption”47; AND
• That any categorical exemption
sought is not barred by an
48
Urban Infill Exemption, see the discussion below.
We anticipate that the City will find the Project eligible for a Class 32 Infill Exemption, because
it meets the Class 32 Infill Exemption criteria and is not subject to any of the exceptions, as
documented below.
1. The project is consistent with the applicable general plan designation and all applicable
general plan policies as well as with applicable zoning designation and regulations.
As revised to proceed under Builder’s Remedy 2.0, the Project is consistent as a matter of law. AB
1893 provides that any project that complies with AB 1893 “shall be deemed consistent, compliant,
and in conformity with an applicable plan, program, policy, ordinance, standard, requirement,
redevelopment plan and implementing instruments, or other similar provision for all purposes.”49
On February 7, 2025, San Jose received a Technical Assistance letter from the Department of
Housing and Community Development (HCD) that says due to AB 1893, lead agencies cannot
rely on subdivision (a) of CEQA Guidelines section 15332 to preclude a project that meets the
definition of “Builder’s Remedy” from utilizing a Class 32 Infill Exemption. Builder’s Remedy
projects that meet all other criteria for a Class 32 Infill Exemption, and for which none of the
exceptions criteria in Section 15300.2 of the CEQA Guidelines apply, are eligible for a Class 32
Infill Exemption.
2. The proposed development occurs within city limits on a project site of no more than five
acres substantially surrounded by urban uses.
The Project Site is approximately 1.45 acres, and is entirely surrounded by urban uses.
3. The project site has no value as a habitat for endangered, rare, or threatened species.
The Project Site is not identified in any regional, state, or federal plans for habitat or conservation.
The Project Site is developed with urban uses and is surrounded by urban development and
significant roadways including El Camino Real, and has no anticipated value as habitat for
threatened, rare or endangered species.
47 Gov. Code § 65589.5.1(a)(4)(A)
48 Gov. Code § 65589.5.1(a)(4)(B).
49 Govt. Code §65589.5(f)(1)(D)(iii).
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4. Approval of the project would not result in any significant effects relating to traffic,
noise, air quality or water quality.
The Project does not entail any unusual methods of construction or particularly impactful use, and
we anticipate that the Project will be found not to cause significant traffic, noise, air quality, or
water quality impacts.
5. The site can be adequately served by all required utilities and public services.
The Project would not propose unusually intensive uses, and will be required to comply with all
local regulations governing the provision of utilities and public services.
Exceptions to Categorical Exemptions 50:
1. The project will not have a significant cumulative impact resulting from “successive
projects of the same type in the same place, over time.”51
The Project is a single residential development, and there is no plan to propose “successive”
development on the Project Site. Accordingly, we anticipate the City will conclude that the Project
will not have any new cumulative impacts related to “successive projects of the same type in the
same place, over time.”
2. The project will not “have a significant effect on the environment due to unusual
circumstances.”52
There are no unusual circumstances related to the Project. In determining whether the “unusual
circumstances” exception applies, the only questions are (a) whether there is any substantial
evidence to support the City’s conclusion that the Project does not have unusual features that
distinguish it from other comparable Class 32 infill projects, and (b) whether any project opponents
have shown that “the project will have a significant environmental effect.”53
The Project is a typical infill housing development project and we anticipate that substantial
evidence will demonstrate that the Project will not have a significant effect on the environment.
Further, no opponents have demonstrated that the project “will have” significant environmental
effects.
50 CEQA Guidelines § 15300.2.
51 CEQA Guidelines § 15300.2(b).
52 CEQA Guidelines § 15300.2(c).
53 Walters v. City of Redondo Beach (2016) 1 Cal.App.5th 809, 822-23 (emphasis in the original).
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3. The project will not “result in damage to scenic resources, including but not limited to,
trees, historic buildings, rock outcroppings, or similar resources, within a highway
officially designated as a state scenic highway.”54
The Project has no effect on scenic highways.
4. The project is not “located on a site which is included on any list compiled pursuant to
Section 65962.5 of the Government Code.”55
The Project Site is not listed on the Cortese List and it is not designated by the Department of
Toxic Substances Control as a hazardous waste site.56
5. The project will not cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical
resource.”57
The Project Site is not a designated as historic. This exception may only be applied to the extent
that designation had already been made on or before the Project’s complete application was
submitted.58
As outlined in this letter, the Project is eligible for AB 1633 and a Class 32 Infill Exemption. The
Applicant would like to move forward with the process to complete CEQA, including any specific
studies required, and look forward to discussing with the City as soon as possible.
We appreciate the City’s attention to this Project.
Sincerely,
HOLLAND & KNIGHT LLP
Genna Yarkin
Chelsea Maclean
54 CEQA Guidelines § 15300.2(d).
55 CEQA Guidelines § 15300.2(e).
56 California Environmental Protection Agency Cortese List: https://calepa.ca.gov/sitecleanup/corteselist/, last
visited April 12, 2025.
57 CEQA Guidelines § 15300.2(f).
58 Gov. Code § 65913.10.
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Project Description
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May 11th 2026
3781 El Camino Real
Developer Leter
Dear Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council,
We are pleased to present 3781 El Camino Real, a 183-unit mul�family residen�al development
that directly responds to Palo Alto’s cri�cal housing needs and the City’s long-term vision for El
Camino Real. This project was filed in February 2024 under California’s Builder’s Remedy
provision — a state law that allows housing projects to proceed outside of local zoning
restric�ons in jurisdic�ons whose Housing Element had not yet received HCD cer�fica�on. At
the �me of filing, Palo Alto’s Housing Element had not been cer�fied; HCD cer�fica�on was
subsequently received in August 2024. The project also invokes State Density Bonus Law and
Assembly Bill 130, which provides a CEQA exemp�on for qualifying infill housing projects. On
September 22, 2025, the Applicant formally invoked the AB 130 CEQA exemp�on and
demonstrated the Project’s eligibility across all applicable criteria.
While this is not a conven�onal en�tlement pathway, we have taken care to design a project
that is though�ul, appropriately scaled, and reflec�ve of the City's vision for El Camino Real. The
project delivers 183 units of new housing — including 23 units affordable to low-income
households at or below 80% AMI, consistent with AB 1893's affordability requirements. We
recognize that the project's affordability component has evolved since the original filing, and we
are commited to delivering these 23 BMR units as a meaningful contribu�on to the City's
housing goals.
Beyond housing, the project offers tangible community benefits: it brings added vitality and
ac�vates a stretch of El Camino Real that would benefit from reinvigora�on, with an
architecturally engaging building; it improves streetscape condi�ons at the entrance to the
Ventura neighborhood, including enhanced sidewalks; and it is broadly consistent with the El
Camino Real Focus Area Plan and the City’s recently adopted Objec�ve Design Standards.
The project has been subject to thorough review with City staff and appeared before the
Architectural Review Board as required. We received design feedback that we have
incorporated into the current plans — including expanding the third-floor balconies; adjus�ng
the architectural detailing and materials along Curtner Avenue to further enhance the
pedestrian experience; improving the appearance of the parking area and adding trellises along
blank walls to increase visual interest; and improving bicycle circula�on by adding a door that
connects the bike storage room to the garage, giving cyclists mul�ple paths of egress.
We are grateful to City Council, City staff, and the ARB for the �me and rigor they have brought
to reviewing this project. We respec�ully request your support in approving 183 units of new
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mul�family housing at 3781 El Camino Real and look forward to delivering much-needed
housing for the Palo Alto community.
Sincerely,
Alex Giovannoto
Vitoria Management, Inc.
President
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3781 El Camino Real
Design Updates
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Expanded Patios on Podium Level
ARB Comment:
ARB members suggested expanding
the patios at the podium level to
enhance livability and activate the
building's street presence.
Design Response:
1
1 Expanded the patios at the
podium level, maximizing
usable outdoor space for
residents and strengthening
the connection between the
building and the street.
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Improved Bike Circulation and Trash Staging
ARB Comment:
ARB members recommended adding a
door connecting the bike room directly
to the garage for improved resident
access.
The City and ARB also recommended
relocating the trash staging area —
previously within the trash termination
room — to a position adjacent to the
street to allow for easier trash
circulation.
Design Response:
1
1 Added direct bike room access
to the garage.
Relocated trash staging to
Curtner Ave frontage for efficient
service access.
2
2
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Updated Curtner Frontage
ARB Comment:
Rethink the garage entry materials,
add visual interest to the blank
flanking walls, and improve parking
structure screening particularly from
adjacent properties.
Design Response:
Redesigned the garage entry to
better integrate with the
architecture and added
trellises on either side to
activate the frontage.
Enhanced parking screening
strategy to improve views from
neighboring properties.
1
2
1
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If you need assistance reviewing the above documents, please contact the Project Planner or call the Planner-on-Duty at
650-617-3117 or email planner@paloalto.gov
Project Plans
In order to reduce paper consumption, a limited number of hard copy project plans are provided to
Councilmembers for their review. The same plans are available to the public, at all hours of the day,
via the following online resources.
Directions to review Project plans and environmental documents online:
1. Go to: https://www.paloalto.gov/Departments/Planning-Development-Services/Development-
Services/Palo-Alto-Permit-View
2. Select the Planning Application Type.
3. Search for “3781 El Camino Real” and open record by clicking on the blue dot
4. Review the record details on the left side and open the “more details” option
5. Use the “Records Info” drop down menu and select “Attachments”
6. Open the attachment named “C7_3781 ECR_Plans.pdf” and dated 4/22/2026 to review the plan
set.
Direct Link to Project Webpage:
https://www.paloalto.gov/Departments/Planning-Development-Services/Current-Planning/Projects/3781-El-
Camino-Real
Materials Boards:
Color and material boards will be available to view in chambers during the hearing.
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Plans
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City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: ACTION ITEMS
Lead Department: City Manager
Meeting Date: May 11, 2026
Report #:2604-6320
TITLE
Expedited Evaluation of the Potential Temporary Closure of the Churchill Avenue Rail Crossing,
Determination of Next Steps, and CEQA Status – Statutorily and Categorically Exempt.
BACKGROUND
This item is a continuation of Agenda Item Number 1 on the City Council April 15, 2026 meeting
agenda.
The original staff report and attachments are available online here (Agenda Item Number 1):
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=20077
On April 15, 2026, City Council considered this item and continued it to May 11, 2026. On April
15, 2026, City Council heard the staff presentation and public testimony; this item continued to
the May 11, 2026 City Council meeting is for continued Council discussion, deliberation, and
potential action – No public testimony will be heard on May 11, 2026.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Supplemental Report Issued April 30, 2026
APPROVED BY:
Ed Shikada, City Manager
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City Council
Supplemental Report
From: Ed Shikada, City Manager
Meeting Date: May 11, 2026
Item Number: 8
Report #:2604-6305
TITLE
Expedited Evaluation of the Potential Temporary Closure of the Churchill Avenue Rail Crossing,
Determination of Next Steps, and CEQA Status – Statutorily and Categorically Exempt.
RECOMMENDATION
Continue the expedited evaluation of the Churchill Avenue temporary rail crossing closure
agenda item from the City Council meeting on April 15, 2026, as recommended by the Rail
Safety Ad Hoc Committee to May 11, 2026, to finalize direction.
BACKGROUND
At the April 15, 2026, City Council meeting, the Rail Safety Ad Hoc Committee recommended
that after receiving the evaluation and public input of the expedited evaluation of the Churchill
Avenue temporary rail closure, the City Council continue the agenda item to the May 11, 2026,
City Council meeting to finalize direction.
This Supplemental Report addresses questions requiring follow-up from the City Council
meeting on April 15.
Quiet Zones Timeline
Quiet Zone implementation along the Caltrain corridor is a City Council priority. The Quiet Zone
effort is planned to be implemented in two phases: 1) Palo Alto Avenue (Alma Street) crossing;
and 2) Churchill Avenue, Meadow Drive, and Charleston Road crossings.
For the Palo Alto Avenue crossing, design was completed in 2025, and required improvements
are under construction. Next steps consist of staff seeking final review by the California Public
Utilities Commission (CPUC) and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) staff before issuing the
Notice of Establishment (NOE) expected in summer 2026.
For the Churchill Avenue, Meadow Drive, and Charleston Road crossings, Quiet Zone
implementation involves installation of four quadrant gate systems at each of these three
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crossings. The study was completed in 2025 and the conceptual plan for improvements was
approved by the City Council on November 10, 2025. Staff is collaborating with Caltrain as the
City will complete the design and Caltrain will implement the construction. The initial estimated
cost for all three crossings is $5.7 million. The project design is currently funded in FY 2027
($0.4 million) and FY 2028 ($1 million), with construction funded in FY 2029 ($4.2 million) and
2030 ($0.1 million) based on the availability of Measure K funding, the local business tax
measure that includes funding for rail grade separation and safety improvements.
Project Design and Construction by Caltrain: This alternative was previously considered;
however, due to limited staffing resources at Caltrain, it was determined that the City
should complete the design before transferring the project to Caltrain for construction.
Additionally, the FRA requires that Quiet Zone requests be submitted by the local
agency. Caltrain recommended that the City secure all necessary CPUC and FRA reviews
and approvals prior to transitioning the project.
Process Efficiency and Streamlining in the Design Phase: The design phase includes
procurement, agreement execution, and regulatory reviews. Procurement typically
takes 3–6 months, while agreements with Caltrain require Rail Committee review and
City Council approval. Negotiations, coordination, agendizing and approvals can be time-
consuming and/or resource intensive. These activities could be streamlined by securing
earlier funding availability (such as consolidating both phases of design into FY 2027)
and providing the City Manager with authority to proceed with a solicitation exemption,
negotiations, and contract execution. These actions could accelerate the project design
timeline from 18 months to approximately 10 months.
Allocate Dedicated Staff to Accelerate Implementation: The Office of Transportation has
currently engaged an hourly project manager to advance efforts associated with the
Churchill Ave evaluation of the potential temporary closure project. This position utilizes
salary savings associated with current vacancies. To continue to accelerate this work
into the next fiscal year following successful recruitment efforts, funding would be
needed for a limited term position or ongoing hourly project manager.
JED Foundation:
APPROVED BY: Ed Shikada, City Manager
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City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: INFORMATION REPORTS
Lead Department: Utilities
Meeting Date: May 11, 2026
Report #:2604-6221
TITLE
Informational Update on the Palo Alto Dark Fiber Expansion Plan and Fiber-to-the-Premises
RECOMMENDATION
This report is for informational purposes only; no Council action is requested.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This update summarizes construction milestones and program activities of the City-owned fiber
backbone expansion (funded in the Fiber Optic Network System Rebuid CIP) and Fiber-to-the-
Premises (FTTP) pilot. The City’s fiber network has proven to be a valuable investment in
providing communication and data needs for utility facilities, public safety, City departments,
and community centers. In addition, the City’s dark fiber licensing business, which serves
commercial and institutional customers, has been successful by enabling customers to meet
their bandwidth and data transmission requirements and raised over $30 million in reserves for
fiber backbone expansion.
Construction of the FTTP service infrastructure to launch service to a pilot area is complete. The
new fiber hut at Colorado Substation is energized; fiber is spliced and connected back to
Equinix; and networking equipment is installed. In the pilot area, aerial construction is
complete; fiber distribution cabinets are deployed and active; and multiport service terminals
are attached to poles and tested. After weather-related delays earlier this year, final end-to-
end system testing is completed. Activation of 20 or more early adopters in the pilot area is
targeted by the end of June.
These early adopters will help staff validate contractor installation processes, service activation,
customer service workflows, and network support. Staff will return to the Utilities Advisory
Commission (UAC) and Council with early pilot service results, including customer, operational,
and financial metrics, to help inform recommendations of the next phase(s) of the FTTP.
Item A
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Three key attributes to offering Palo Alto Fiber include offering the only Palo Alto-based
internet service, owned and operated by the City, with transparency and accountability
customers can rely on as a City service; local, professional and responsive customer service;
and providing the community another internet option which would increase competition and
lower rates amongst the internet providers.
BACKGROUND
1). Included in the Council’s
motion was to a) maximize number of homes and businesses reached; b) consider promotional
rates to increase subscriptions (aka ”take rate”); c) define leading indicators and metrics to
determine success; and d) recommend Council accelerate expansion if metrics are positive,
including a potential bond to streamline construction and compress construction time as much
as feasible. The City’s fiber optic backbone network was constructed in the mid-1990s. The
estimated useful life of fiber plant is typically 30 to 40 years. Rebuilding and expanding the fiber
backbone is essential to maintaining and improving network reliability and security, increasing
network coverage and capacity for City departments, commercial dark fiber customers, FTTP,
and supporting some “smart city” initiatives for Information Technology, Office of Emergency
Services, Public Safety, Public Works, Transportation and Utilities. The FTTP pilot is intended to
test the City’s readiness and viability to provide a competitively priced, local, high-speed
internet option. Having other available internet service may reduce overall prices in Palo Alto
and enhance customer experience.
ANALYSIS
1 City Council, December 19, 2022; Staff Report #14800:
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/v/1/agendas-minutes-reports/reports/city-manager-reports-
cmrs/2022/12-19-2022-id-14800.pdf
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As staff has advanced the pilot, one key lesson learned has been that fiber deployment does
not generate cost efficiencies when coupled with grid mod work in all areas. While there are
still opportunities to coordinate where beneficial, staff learned to better identify strategic areas
for alignment, such as selected undergrounding areas. Staff is actively identifying opportunities
to serve new multifamily residential developments because of lower and shared construction
costs.
FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
3). Through Council authorization through the budget process,
approximately, $5.5 million of $20 million was spent for the pilot which is a subset of phase 1
including aerial construction, pole make ready, fiber hut, reinforced foundation for the hut,
networking equipment, data center, and system applications. $3 million of the $5.5 million are
3Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report:
https://www.paloalto.gov/files/assets/public/v/1/administrative-services/financial-reporting/annual-
comprehensive-financial-reports-acfr/current-2011-acfrs/city-of-palo-alto-acfr-fye-06.30.2025-final-secured.pdf
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one-time investment costs (i.e. fiber hut, data center, networking equipment) for FTTP pilot and
future expansion. Additionally, the FY 2026-2027 proposed budget was built based on this
current status update.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
5). UAC recognized a substantial portion of the fiber funds
are being used to enhance the fiber backbone. Enhancing the fiber backbone will happen
regardless of FTTP being offered. The goals of the FTTP pilot are technical feasibility,
operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and internet pricing. UAC requested staff to
return to them a few months after FTTP is launched with take rate, financial analysis, and other
data metrics from the pilot to assess the business plan and financial viability of FTTP.
6). The rate structure includes a maximum price and allows
flexibility for setting standard and promotional rates to remain competitive for Phase 1
customers. Staff expects to continue stakeholder coordination through regular UAC and Council
updates and ongoing public engagement as pilot data becomes available.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
7).
APPROVED BY:
5 UAC Meeting January 7, 2026; Staff Report #2511-5445:
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/viewer/preview?id=0&type=8&uid=da34516b-4f8e-4af9-8bb6-6ea10ec1f235
6 Council Meeting June 16, 2025; Staff Report #2411-3776:
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/viewer/preview?id=0&type=8&uid=35104f06-6925-4fe3-89c7-b0e53e6eec42
7 https://www.paloalto.gov/files/assets/public/v/1/city-manager/communications-office/palo-alto-fiber/mnd-
final-docs/final-initial-study-mitigated-negative-declaration.pdf
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City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: INFORMATION
Lead Department: Transportation
Meeting Date: May 11, 2026
Report #:2603-6168
TITLE
Palo Alto Transportation Management Association 2025 Annual Report, 2027-29 Strategic Plan,
and 2025 Commute Survey
RECOMMENDATION
No action is recommended; this is for information only.
The 2025 Annual Report, 2027-29 Strategic Plan, and 2025 Commute Survey by the Palo Alto
Transportation Management Association are being transmitted for compliance with the
contractual agreement.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City contracts with the Palo Alto Transportation Management Association (TMA) to
implement programs to reduce single-occupancy vehicle (SOV) trips to and from Palo Alto. The
funding agreement between the Palo Alto TMA and the City restricts the use of City funds to
trip reduction programs and requires the TMA to report on the use of these funds. The
attached Annual Report covers the 2025 calendar year, detailing how the City’s contribution
was used to support SOV trip reduction, including the results of the Fall 2025 Commute Survey.
The attachment also includes the FY 2027-29 TMA Strategic Plan. The work of the TMA supports
the City’s Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) Goals by working to reduce vehicle
miles traveled and increasing the mode share for active transportation and transit. Additional
program history can be found in the April 23, 2024, Finance Committee Staff Report.1
1 Finance Committee, April 23, 2024, Agenda Item #6; SR #2403-2761,
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/meetings/ItemWithTemplateType?id=4692&meetingTemplateType=2&co
mp iledMeetingDocumentId=9724
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BACKGROUND
3 TMA formation was a key
component of this approach. To this end, on August 11, 2014, City authorized a consulting
contract that resulted in TMA-formation as a program of Silicon Valley Community Foundation
in January 20164 Palo Alto TMA was subsequently incorporated as a 501(c)(3) non-profit entity
on February 12, 2018.
Table 1: Comprehensive Plan Policies and Programs related to PATMA
Policy Program Description
T-1.1 Take a comprehensive approach to reducing single-occupant vehicle trips by
involving those who live, work and shop in Palo Alto in developing strategies
that make it easier and more convenient not to drive.
T-1.2 Collaborate with Palo Alto employers and business owners to develop,
implement and expand comprehensive programs like the TMA to reduce
single-occupant vehicle commute trips, including through incentives.
T1.2.1 Create a long-term education program to change the travel habits of residents,
visitors, shoppers and workers by informing them about transportation
alternatives, incentives, and impacts. Work with the PAUSD and other public
and private interests, such as the Chamber of Commerce and Commuter
Wallet partners, to develop and implement this program.
T1.2.4 Evaluate the performance of pilot programs implemented by the Palo Alto
Transportation Management Association and pursue expansion from
Downtown to California Avenue and other areas of the city when appropriate.
T1.2.6 Pursue full participation of Palo Alto employers in the TMA.
T-1.13 Encourage services that complement and enhance the transportation options
available to help Palo Alto residents and employees make first/last mile
connections and travel within the city for daily needs without using a single-
occupancy vehicle, including shuttle, taxi and ridesharing services.
T-2.2 As part of the effort to reduce traffic congestion, seek ongoing funding and
engage employers to operate and expand TMAs to address transportation and
parking issues as appropriate in the City’s employment districts.
3 City Council, September 16, 2013, Agenda Item #12; SR #4087,
https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=757&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto&searchid=5783b38f-
f4fb-425c-afda-dd1615e126cc
4 City Council, August 11, 2014; Agenda Item #4; SR #4766,
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civicax/filebank/documents/43344
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Table 1: Comprehensive Plan Policies and Programs related to PATMA
Policy Program Description
T2.2.1 Work in partnership with the Palo Alto TMA and Stanford University to
aggregate data and realize measurable reductions in single-occupant vehicle
commuting to and from Downtown and in the Stanford Research Park.
T-5.5 Minimize the need for employees to park in and adjacent to commercial
centers, employment districts and schools.
T7.1.1 Expand transportation opportunities for transit-dependent riders by
supporting discounts for taxi fares, rideshare services and transit, by
coordinating transit systems to be shared by multiple senior housing
developments, by maintaining a database of volunteer drivers and other
transit options.
Between 2016 and the present, Council has authorized funding agreements with PATMA to
support TDM programs aimed at reducing vehicular trips and parking demand in Palo Alto’s
commercial areas. During 2020, programs were adjusted to provide additional service for
essential workers; and in 2021 programs were expanded from Downtown to the California
Avenue Business District. Programs were also adjusted in response to changed user preferences
and participation rates following the pandemic: Scoop and WAZE carpool programs were
discontinued between 2021 and 2023, and the Bike Love incentive program was added in 2022.
The Bike Love program provides $5 per day (up to $600 per year) to new bicycle or e-scooter
commuters in geofenced employment areas in the city. In partnership with Palo Alto-based
non-profit Silicon Valley Bicycle Exchange, PATMA also provides refurbished bikes at no cost to
drivers who wish to begin bicycling to work in Palo Alto.
On September 11, 2023, Council approved the current three-year funding agreement with
PATMA, which provided $242,000 in FY 2024 (with $25,000 to reduce SOV trips beyond the
California Avenue and Downtown districts), $400,000 in FY 2025, and $400,000 in FY 2026. The
FY 2025 and FY 2026 amounts include a new $10,000 Electric Bike/Scooter Pilot program from
the City’s Utilities Department and a $200,000 budget to serve to workers citywide in addition
to maintaining the same balance of $200,000 for services in the Downtown and California
Avenue districts.
Funding levels, program types and outputs are summarized in Table 2. Outputs are summarized
by calendar year and therefore summaries are not yet available for 2026, while funding is listed
by fiscal year.
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Table 2: Summary of PATMA Results, 2018-2025
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020*2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026
# Parking Spaces
Freed Up**~134 ~393 331 333 360 125 125 266 312 487
# Transit Pass
Participants 42 102 227 221 260 119 120 252 300 468
# Lyft Active Users
(3+/wk)4 18 10 7 10 5 4 3 4 3
# Waze Active
Users start ~100 44 95 88 0.7 0.5 stop
#Scoop
Registrations 666 1,308
# Scoop Active
Users ~88 173 50 10 2 stop
# Bike Love Users
(3+/wk) start 11 8 16
# Bike Love Users
(1+/mo) 33 29 43
# Survey
Responses NA NA 496 1,471 N/A 551 511 738 885 920
FY agreement
amount ($k)100 100 480 480 750 350 150 200 242 400 400
Council approval
or consideration
date
6/13/16
2/13/17
7
6/27/17 12/10/18
5/15 &
6/17/19
8
5/13 &
5/26/20 9 11/30/20 6/2021 6/2022 9/11/23
3/x/24 10
2/12 &
6/17/24
11
6/16/25
12
*Numbers for Q1 only due to pandemic
**Transit pass holders + Lyft users + Waze users + Scoop users + Bike Love 3+ users
7 City Council, June 13, 2016: Agenda Item #10; SR #6823,
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civicax/filebank/documents/52687
8 Finance Committee, April 16, 2019; Agenda Item #4; SR #10198,
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civicax/filebank/documents/70194, Presentation:
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?t=63435.61&BlobID=70664
9 City Council, May 26, 2020; Informational Report; SR #11307,
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?t=64175.41&BlobID=76770; City Council, May 26,
2020; Agenda Item #1; SR #11376; https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civicax/filebank/documents/76803, Action
Minutes: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?t=48631.05&BlobID=77870
10 City Council, September 11, 2023; Agenda Item #7; SR #2308-1883;
11 City Council, February 12, 2024; Agenda Item #11; SR #2311-2233;
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/meetings/ItemWithTemplateType?id=3638&meetingTemplateType=2&comp
iledMeetingDocumentId=9079; City Council, June 17, 2024; Agenda Item #28; SR#2406-3140;
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/meetings/ItemWithTemplateType?id=5334&meetingTemplateType=2&compile
dMeetingDocumentId=10470
12 City Council, June 16, 2025; Agenda Item #23, SR #2503-4250;
https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=6448&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto
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ANALYSIS
Regular reports are required under the TMA’s funding agreement with the City. In the past
year, the TMA has reached new service milestones by providing commute support to over 500
workers. The TMA helped 471 low-income workers either via free transit passes or guaranteed
rides home via an after-hours Lyft service. An additional 59 commuters participated in the Bike
Love $5/day program. These programs reduced daily parking demand by almost 500 spaces in
business districts.
To support new transit users, PATMA provides free Clipper Cards loaded with annual or
monthly passes for Caltrain, VTA buses, SamTrans buses, and Dumbarton Transbay buses. The
TMA receives free Caltrain GoPasses via Caltrain’s PassForward Program which provides over
$1.5 million in transit pass value yearly to the TMA.
To support new bicyclists, PATMA promotes its Bike Love incentive app and provides free
refurbished bicycles. A feature of the Bike Love app designed by mobile app developer Motion
is the restriction that the $5 per day incentive (up to $600 per year) be spent at Palo Alto
businesses, thereby re-circulating City funds into the local economy.
The attached Annual Report covers the 2025 calendar year, detailing how public funds were
spent to support SOV trip reduction, including the results of the Fall 2025 Downtown Commute
Survey. The attachment also includes the 2027-2029 TMA Strategic Plan which is required to be
updated by the funding agreement.
The Annual Report highlights several accomplishments, noting that in 2025, the TMA:
Reduced close to 500 parking spaces not needed in commercial areas around Palo Alto
Serves and markets to low wage service sector workers beyond Downtown and
California Ave, such as along El Camino Real, at the Stanford Mall, in Midtown, and in
South Palo Alto
Supports small businesses around the Caltrans El Camino Real repaving project by
offering train and bus passes and refurbished bikes to workers who used to park on El
Camino Real
The following insights gleaned from the 2025 Commute Survey point to additional mode shift
opportunities among workers in Palo Alto.
Overall, the drive alone rate fell from 62% among respondents last year to 55% this
year.
The highest drive alone rates are among government employees even though their drive
alone rate fell from 72% in 2024 to 67% in 2025. (BayPass for benefitted City of Palo Alto
workers became available mid-2025.)
72% of respondents live in cities served by a train or bus that runs to Palo Alto.
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Service sector workers tend to live closer to work and government workers tend to live
farthest away.
136 respondents (14.7%) live less than five miles from work and are open to an active
commute.
Total travel time or schedule is the overarching consideration when deciding how to
commute. (Total travel time includes in-vehicle time plus access time and wait time,
which is affected by service reliability or on-time performance.)
217 respondents (23.5%) said they needed more bike parking at work
Barriers to a sustainable commute include perceptions about the timeliness of trains
and buses, safety of stations and stops, safety of biking and scootering on roads with
cars, and demands outside of work on their time.
These data point to the potential for mode shift among workers who live less than five miles
from work or who can take one train or bus to work in Palo Alto.
Policy Implications
The City’s Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) includes two mobility goals that are
directly supported by the work of the TMA:
Reduce total vehicle miles traveled 12% by 2030, compared to a 2019 baseline, by
reducing commute vehicle miles traveled 20%, visitor vehicles miles traveled 10%, and
resident vehicle miles traveled 6%
Increase the mode share for active transportation (walking, biking) and transit from 19%
to 40% of local work trips by 2030
In addition, the transportation demand management (TDM) services provided by the TMA are
consistent with Comprehensive Plan policies and programs as listed in Table 1.
FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
The current funding agreement is a three-year agreement expiring at the end of FY 2026 (June
30, 2026). As part of the FY 2026 Adopted Budget, a total of $400,000 was approved as the
ongoing funding amount for the TMA from the University Avenue Parking Fund ($200,000) and
the General Fund ($200,000).
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
Monthly Palo Alto TMA Board of Directors meetings are open to the public and occur at 9 a.m.
on the third Thursday of the month. Information about board meetings can be found at the
Palo Alto TMA website: https://www.paloaltotma.org/
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ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Transmission of these reports is for informational purposes only and does not approve any
specific project or funding. It can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility of a
significant impact on the environment (State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3)) and this
item is exempt from CEQA review.
Attachment A: 2025 Palo Alto TMA Annual Report, 2027-29 Strategic Plan, and 2025 Commute
Survey
:
Ria Hutabarat Lo, Chief Transportation Official
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March 25, 2026
Palo Alto City Councilmembers
Subject: PATMA’s 2025 Annual Report, Three-Year Strategic Plan, and 2025 Commute Survey
Dear Councilmembers ,
The non-profit Palo Alto Transportation Management Association (PATMA) is pleased to present three
reports for your consideration. Written in an easy to skim style, you will see attached PATMA’s 2025
Annual Report, Three-Year Strategic Plan (FY 2027 – FY 2029), and 2025 Commute Survey.
In FY 2025, PATMA’s budget was restored to $400,000/year, closer to pre-pandemic levels. With the
same budget level in FY 2027, we anticipate that 500 parking spaces will be freed up, greenhouse gas
emissions reduced, and local businesses supported . We also understand the City’s budget situation and
offer two additional budget scenarios.
Three Budget Scenarios for FY 2027
Program Elements Expenses -
$400,000
budget
Expenses -
$375,000
budget
Expenses -
$350,000
budget
Transit Passes $262,504 $242,504 $217,504
Bike Love Rewards $45,242 $45,242 $45,242
Commute Survey $30,000 $25,000 $25,000
Refurbished Bicycles $5,200 $5,200 $5,200
Lyft Afterhours Rides Home $4,573 $4,573 $4,573
PATMA Administration $35,144 $35,144 $35,144
Business Expenses $17,337 $17,337 $17,337
Total $400,000 $375,000 $350,000
In the $375,000 budget scenario, PATMA expects to free up 450 parking spaces . With this lower budget,
PATMA would cut staff program hours, reduce marketing on transit passes, and collect fewer commute
survey responses. In the $350,000 budget scenario, PATMA would cut back further on staff hours,
reduce marketing efforts, purchase fewer transit passes, collect fewer commute survey responses, and
would expect to free up 400 parking spaces .
PATMA is pleased to support the City Council’s 2026 goals of economic development and government
efficiency, as well as its leadership on climate action. Let me know if you have any questions.
Kind regards,
Justine Burt
Executive Director, Palo Alto Transportation Management Association
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2025 Annual Report
Three-Year Strategic Plan (FY 2027 - FY 2029)
2025 Commute Survey
Submitted to the Palo Alto City Council and Finance Committee
March 13, 2026
Prepared by:
Palo Alto Transportation Management Association
855 El Camino Real #13A-200, Palo Alto, CA 94301
www.paloaltotma.org
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2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
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2025 Annual Report
January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025
Submitted to the Palo Alto City Council
Prepared by:
Palo Alto Transportation Management Association
855 El Camino Real #13A-200, Palo Alto, CA 94301
www.paloaltotma.org
March 2026
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Attachment A - 2025 Palo
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2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
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Table of Contents
Executive Summary ......................................................................................................................... 1
Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 1
About PATMA .................................................................................................................................. 2
PATMA’s Top Five Accomplishments .............................................................................................. 3
Programs ......................................................................................................................................... 4
Benefits of PATMA Programs .......................................................................................................... 8
Program Results .............................................................................................................................. 9
Finances ........................................................................................................................................ 13
Conclusion ..................................................................................................................................... 16
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2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
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1
Palo Alto Transportation Management Association
2025 Annual Report
Executive Summary
With leadership from the City of Palo Alto, as well as collaborative partnerships with regional
transit agencies, local community-based organizations, and grantmaking organizations, in 2025,
the Palo Alto Transportation Management Association (PATMA) delivered a dramatic increase
in program results.
PATMA’s sustainable transportation programs for workers – free train and bus passes, $5/day
Bike Love bicycle commute incentive rewards, free refurbished bicycles, after-hour Lyft rides,
and an e-bike e-scooter pilot – resulted in a reduction in demand for 482 parking spaces
around town, 2,933,038 fewer vehicle miles traveled, and 1,152 fewer tons of greenhouse gas
emissions. With these accomplishments, PATMA supported three of the 2025 Palo Alto City
Council’s four priorities: economic development & retail vibrancy, climate change, and
community health.
Highlights of PATMA’s work in 2025 included:
• Impact of program work
o Close to 500 parking spaces not needed in commercial areas around Palo Alto
• Geographic reach
o Now serving low wage service sector workers around town: Downtown, on
California Ave, along El Camino Real, at the Stanford Mall, at Midtown, and in
South Palo Alto
o In these areas, PATMA marketed sustainable transportation information and
incentives and conducted the annual commute survey
• Small business support
o Around Caltrans’ El Camino Real repaving project where bike lanes replaced 220
on-street parking spaces, PATMA offered train and bus passes and refurbished
bikes to workers who park on El Camino
These developments lay a strong foundation for PATMA’s future work to accomplish even more
sustainable transportation mode shift.
Introduction
The Palo Alto TMA is a non-profit working to reduce single-occupancy vehicle (SOV) commute
trips, traffic congestion, demand for parking and greenhouse gas emissions by delivering
targeted transportation solutions to Palo Alto workers. Financial support for this work comes
from the City of Palo Alto’s University Avenue and California Avenue parking funds and from
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2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
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2
the City’s General Fund. This funding allows PATMA to provide free transit passes, $5/day Bike
Love rewards, refurbished bicycles, and late-night Lyft rides chiefly to low wage service sector
workers in the commercial districts of Palo Alto.
About PATMA
Staff
PATMA is a non-profit, staffed by ALTRANS TMA Inc., a firm specializing in transportation
demand management (TDM). Staff providing on-going support for PATMA include:
● Justine Burt, Executive Director
● Lucey Gorrill, TDM Coordinator
● Stephen Blaylock, President, ALTRANS TMA Inc.
● Andrew Ridley, Chief Operating Officer, ALTRANS TMA Inc.
Board of Directors
In 2025, the City of Palo Alto’s new Chief Transportation Official Ria Hutabarat Lo joined
PATMA’s board while Nathaniel Duncan moved on from his role at Patagonia as the Store
Manager and stepped down from the PATMA Board. At the end of the year, board members
included:
● Cedric de la Beaujardiere, resident (Board Chair)
● Rob George, Philz Coffee (Treasurer and a founding board member)
● Shannon Rose McEntee, retired and resident (Secretary)
● Ria Lo, City of Palo Alto
● Sebastian Mafla, Sheraton
● Alejandra Mier, Coupa Café
● Steven Lee, attorney and resident
The PATMA board meets monthly on the third Thursday at 9:00am and efficiently works
through one hour of agenda items. Nearly all board members regularly attend. The public is
encouraged to join these virtual meetings. Meeting details and zoom links can be found on our
Meetings page at https://www.paloaltotma.org/bod-meetings.
Mission and Core Values
PATMA’s mission statement reads “Better commutes for everyone.” Our core values describe
how our non-profit improves life for the workers and residents of Palo Alto:
• Traffic and parking – reduce traffic congestion and demand for parking
• Climate change – transition to a zero-emission transportation system
• Equity – fair outcomes, treatment and opportunities for all
• Local businesses – help local businesses attract and retain employees
• Health – encourage community health
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Incorporating City of Palo Alto Priorities
While the original motivation for the Palo Alto City Council to create PATMA was to alleviate
traffic congestion and reduce demand for parking downtown, each year, PATMA overlays the
City Council’s stated priorities to guide its work. In January 2025, the City Council announced its
priorities for the year:
1. Implementing Housing Strategies for Social & Economic Balance
2. Climate Action & Adaptation, and Natural Environment Protection
3. Economic Development & Retail Vibrancy
4. Public Safety, Wellness & Belonging
PATMA’s work supports three of these priorities: climate action, economic development &
retail vibrancy, and public wellness. Regarding City Council’s priority of addressing climate
action, PATMA helps reduce greenhouse gases from on-road transportation sources which are
56.8% of Palo Alto’s emissions, according to the City’s 2024 Greenhouse Gas Emissions
inventory. One-third of these on-road transportation sources come from commuters which
PATMA helps mode shift to sustainable transport.
Supporting City of Palo Alto’s Sustainability/Climate Action Plan (S/CAP)
The City of Palo Alto set a goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80% below 1990 levels by
2030 and to become carbon neutral by 2030. One S/CAP mobility goal relevant to PATMA
regarding reducing greenhouse gas emissions is “increasing the mode share for active
transportation (walking, biking) and transit from 19% to 40% of local work trips by 2030.”
The S/CAP focuses on launching effective programs for emissions reductions with the highest
impact and lowest cost. PATMA’s programs help accomplish this goal as noted in the following
section.
Note that in the 2022 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory, on -road transportation sources
contributed 51.7% of GHGs. The jump to 56.8% in 2024 makes PATMA’s work even more vital
to the City’s GHG reduction goals.
PATMA’s Top Five Accomplishments
The following provide highlights of PATMA’s work in 2025.
1. Reduced 1,152 tons of greenhouse gas emissions in 2025, a reduction beyond 603 tons
in 2024
2. Continued to grow the transit pass program from a pandemic-induced low of 28 people
served in May 2020 to a high of 468 in December 2025. Figure 1 shows the number of
PATMA-granted transit passes in circulation among Palo Alto workers over the past
seven years. Note that PATMA issued 522 transit passes but due to some worker
turnover or people not activating passes, 468 were activated as of the end of 2025.
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Figure 1: Transit Passes Activated 2019 – 2025
3. Received approval from transit agencies to continue distributing Caltrain GoPasses in
2025 and VTA SmartPasses through August 2025 to low wage service sector workers to
help grow transit ridership.
4. Activated and distributed 352 Caltrain GoPasses from the Caltrain GoPass Donation
Program. Likewise, 63 VTA SmartPasses were distributed to low wage service sector
workers in 2025.
5. Completed e-bike and e-scooter pilot program with City of Palo Alto Utilities funding to
develop case studies that will inspire other low wage service sector workers to consider
active commutes.
These activities demonstrate the power of partnerships with local and regional organizations as
well as the trust PATMA has established with local business managers.
Programs
With funding from the City’s University Avenue Parking Fund, California Avenue Parking Fund,
and General Fund, PATMA provides free Clipper Cards loaded with annual or monthly passes for
Caltrain, VTA buses, SamTrans buses, and Dumbarton Transbay buses. PATMA also offers $10
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credits for after-hours Lyft rides of less than five miles, refurbished bicycles at no cost to the
recipient, and $5/day Bike Love rewards for biking or e-scootering to work.
During 2025, PATMA conducted extensive outreach along El Camino Real around Caltrans’
repaving and protected bike lanes installation to help mitigate the loss of on-street parking to
small businesses. PATMA also continued to market mode shift programs in other commercial
areas such as Downtown, along California Ave, at the Stanford Mall, at Midtown, and in South
Palo Alto.
Service sector workers who receive transit passes work primarily in food service
establishments, retail, accommodation, and dental and medical offices. Light office workers
who receive transit passes or accrue Bike Love rewards include staff at banks, insurance
agencies, real estate management companies, and in educational services (tutoring).
Programs with income thresholds
Train and bus passes
Transit pass benefits are provided to employees earning less than $111,700 per year who work
in the commercial areas of Palo Alto and who do not already receive employer-supported TDM
benefits. Workers at the Stanford Research Park, at Stanford University, and at developments
with TDM plans are ineligible for PATMA’s programs as these organizations have their own TDM
programs.
Pilot: E-bicycles and e-scooters
With funding from the City of Palo Alto Utilities Department, in 2025 PATMA wrapped up a pilot
program to study e-bikes and e-scooters for active mobility commutes. Five pilot participants
making less than $70,000/year received either an e-bike or a 12-month e-scooter lease. The
intent was to study how many times a week they used the e-bike or e-scooter, how many miles
they commuted, and understand barriers to device use. Insights gleaned will inform new
PATMA active mobility pilots and programs moving forward.
Refurbished bicycles
In 2025, PATMA continued working with local non-profit Bike Exchange to provide eight
refurbished bicycles and safety gear to essential workers. This p rogram is open to workers
making less than $111,700/year. Figure 2 shows eight Palo Alto-based essential workers
receiving their refurbished bicycles.
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Figure 2: Essential Workers Take Delivery of Their “New” Refurbished Bikes
Maria
Jamilah
Ahmed
Claudia
Grisel
Sarat
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Cody
Eddy
Lyft after-hours rides
PATMA’s Lyft after-hours program provides rides home after transit stops running to workers
commuting less than five miles.
PATMA programs without an income threshold
Bike Love rewards
The Bike Love smartphone app provides daily incentives for active mode first-mile commute
trips to transit and active mode commutes between home and work, of $5/day up to $599 per
year per commuter. Automated travel mode detection identifies eligible bike, e-bike, e-scooter,
and e-skateboard trips. Eligibility is determined by trips that stop or start within geofences
around 30 Caltrain stations and seven commercial areas (Downtown, California Ave., Stanford
Mall, El Camino Real, Midtown, and two areas East of Highway 101). Incentive dollars are
instantly redeemable at local merchants via reloadable Apple/Google Wallet Virtual Visa cards.
Figure 3 shows the current geofences that mark commute destinations where workers earn
rewards. This map includes Caltrain stations, for workers who use a bike or e -scooter for
first/last mile, as well as expanded commercial areas.
Figure 3: 2025 Bike Love Geofence Boundaries
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In 2025, 49% of the total number of transactions and 27% of the transaction value of redeemed
rewards happened in Palo Alto, in support of the City Council’s 2025 priority for retail vitality.
The ability of Bike Love users to redeem incentives at Palo Alto businesses helps keep dollars in
the local economy. Figure 4 provides detail about where Bike Love users spent their reward
funds.
Figure 4: Where Bike Love Rewards Were Spent in 2025
All
Palo
Alto
Mountain
View
Redwood
City
San
Francisco
San
Carlos
Sunny-
vale
Menlo
Park
Amazon
or online
Other
cities
Transactions
value ($) 23,700 6,413 267 973 1,316 148 420 2,361 7,311 4,491
Number of
transactions 1,582 777 38 78 62 16 21 114 228 248
Source: Motion
This information is gathered from merchant identification numbers where rewards are
redeemed. Part way through 2025, after conferring with the bank that issues the rewards,
Motion (the software programming start-up that developed Bike Love) changed the app to only
allow redemptions at Palo Alto brick and mortar businesses.
For a quick overview video explaining the app, please visit Bike Love in 80 seconds (video).
Benefits of PATMA Programs
While PATMA programs save service workers and light office workers money on their
commutes, many other benefits of these programs accrue to local businesses, workers, and
Palo Alto residents.
Businesses
For business owners and managers, PATMA participation gives them a competitive advantage
over similar businesses in nearby cities. Being able to provide transit passes to their employees
helps shops, restaurants, and hotels attract and retain workers in competitive industries with
high rates of staff turnover.
Workers
Workers who stop driving not only save money on variable vehicle costs such as gasoline,
maintenance, and repairs, they also escape the stress of having to drive in traffic congestion
and find parking. The workers who commute by active modes enjoy the benefits of exercise
that allow them to arrive at work energized and refreshed.
Palo Alto Residents
PATMA’s programs on the City’s behalf reduce traffic congestion, free up parking spaces in
commercial areas, and enhance the quality of life for residents by reducing the number of cars
circulating on City streets and parked in lots, garages, and neighborhoods.
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Program Results
Results of the TMA’s program management, marketing, and administrative labor in Figures 5 -
11 depict the number of transit passes distributed by employer, types of transit passes
distributed along El Camino Real, number of commuters shifted to sustainable mode, cost per
user, parking spaces not needed, avoided vehicle miles traveled, and tons of greenhouse gases
reduced.
Among all businesses served, Figure 5 breaks out by business the number of their employees in
descending order who had an active train or bus pass from PATMA in 2025.
Figure 5: Number of Transit Passes Distributed by Employer in 2025
Employers
Transit Pass
Count
Sheraton/Westin 45
Neiman Marcus 24
Bloomingdale's 19
Nobu Hotel 18
Whole Foods Market 17
Patagonia 15
Ettan 14
Apple 13
Macy's 13
Walgreens 11
Wells Fargo 10
AJ Tutoring 8
Philz Coffee 8
Rooh 8
Sephora 8
Coupa Café 7
Khazana 7
Crepevine 6
NOA Technologies 6
Rangoon Ruby 6
Avenidas 5
Backcountry 5
Citibank 5
Oren’s Hummus 5
Panda Express 5
True Food Kitchen 5
Agile Physical Therapy
Sutter Health (contractor
to PAMF) 4
Employers
Transit Pass
Count
Blue Bottle Coffee 4
Christine Hansen DDS &
Associates 4
Glass Slipper Inn 4
Lytton Gardens 4
Peloton 4
The Melt 4
The Real Real 4
Buca di Beppo 3
Comfort Inn 3
Local Union 271 3
Lululemon 3
Modern Animal 3
Mollie Stone's Market 3
Pacific Catch 3
Palo Alto Orthodontics 3
PIP Printing of Palo Alto 3
Rails Clothing 3
San Agus 3
Vein Treatment Clinic
(VIP) 3
Vince 3
Watercourse Way 3
Webster House 3
Americas Best Value Inn
Sky Ranch Palo Alto 2
Anthropologie 2
Arya Steakhouse 2
Coach 2
Crowne Plaza Hotel 2
Employers
Transit Pass
Count
Dion Health 2
Equinox 2
Fleming’s Prime
Steakhouse 2
Hobee's 2
Hotel Keen 2
L&P Aesthetics 2
Lenscrafters 2
Levi’s 2
Macarena Restaurant 2
Nordstrom 2
On Running 2
Palo Alto Bicycles 2
Palo Alto Inn 2
Palo Alto Oral &
Maxillofacial Surgery 2
Peninsula Creamery 2
Ramen Kowa 2
Spring Spa 2
Summit Bicycles 2
Sunglass Hut 2
Tacolicious 2
University Chiropractic &
Wellness 2
West Elm 2
Wetzel’s Pretzels 2
Yayoi 2
Allbirds 1
Arcteryx 1
Banana Republic 1
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Employers
Transit Pass
Count
Beckstead Dental Group 1
Bell's Books 1
Beyond Explorations 1
Blue Danube Spa 1
Café 220 1
Cardinal Hotel 1
Chanel 1
Channing House 1
Christopher B. Wong DDS 1
City National Bank 1
City of Palo Alto 1
American Express
(Employee: Kingston
Technologies Inc) 1
Club Pilates 1
Curry Up Now 1
Dental office 1
Dinah's Garden Hotel 1
Dr Phillip Fletcher 1
Dr. William Tseng 1
Elisha Marie Skin & Body 1
Evvia Estiatorio 1
Fast Repair 1
Fjallraven 1
Free People 1
Gap 1
Go Fish Poke Bar 1
Guckenheimer: Palo Alto
Club 1
H&R Block, Block Advisors 1
Hassett Hardware 1
Hummus Mediterranean
kitchen 1
Illuminate Plastic Surgery 1
J Crew 1
Jerold H Lipson, D.D.S.,
M.S. Inc 1
Employers
Transit Pass
Count
Joe & The Juice 1
K. Minamoto 1
KEEN 1
KinderCare Downtown
Palo Alto 1
Kowa Ramen 1
La Bodeguita del Medio 1
La Selva Group 1
Landscaping 1
Law Office of Peter S.
Stern 1
Levi's 2
Local Union 271 3
Mademoiselle Colette 1
Magnussen's Toyota of
Palo Alto 1
McDonald's 1
Mendocino Farms 1
Nola's 1
Northern California
Women's Imaging Center 1
Osteria Toscana 1
Outerknown 1
Palo Alto Academy
Bilingual Montessori 1
Palo Alto Dermatology
Institute 1
Palo Alto Pathology 1
Palo Alto Weekly 1
Pinkberry 1
PIP Printing of Palo Alto 3
Provident Credit Union 1
Reformation 1
Restaurante Macarena 1
Sanford Heisler Sharp
McKnight, LLP 1
School of Rock 1
Silicon Valley Bicycle
Exchange 1
Employers
Transit Pass
Count
SkinSpirit 1
Sprinkles 1
Sprout Cafe 1
Starbucks 1
Sunglasses Hut 1
Sutter Health 1
Tamarine Restaurant 1
Taverna 1
Terun 1
Tesla 1
The Bike Connection 1
The IO Clinic 1
The North Face 1
The Palo Alto Inn 1
The Zen Hotel 1
Therabody 1
Tidal Partners 1
Tinder 1
Trader Joes 1
University Optometry 1
Urban Outfitters 1
VCA Palo Alto Animal
Hospital 1
Victra 1
Visual Comfort & Co. 1
Vitality Bowls 1
Vuori 1
Waverley Surgery Center 1
Williams Sonoma 1
Woof Gang Bakery 1
Xfinity 1
Zola + BarZola 1
Grand Total (issued
passes) 522
Figure 6 provides the number of transit passes PATMA distributed to businesses along El Camino Real
(between Park Blvd and San Antonio Rd) by month. PATMA’s proactive transit pass outreach efforts
were conducted along with Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition volunteers to help reduce demand for parking
around the time of the Caltrans repaving and bike lane project in 2025.
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Figure 6: Transit Passes Distributed Along El Camino Real by Month in 2025
Month Caltrain VTA SamTrans Dumbarton Express
Jan 3 7 0 0
Feb 1 4 0 1
Mar 1 0 0 0
Apr 0 0 0 0
May 4 3 0 0
Jun 2 1 0 0
Jul 1 1 0 0
Aug 0 0 0 0
Sep 3 0 0 1
Oct 0 0 0 0
Nov 1 3 1 0
Dec 0 1 0 0
Total 16 20 1 2
Overall, PATMA’s marketing and outreach efforts throughout Palo Alto in 2025 resulted in the following
impacts.
Figure 7: Number of Commuters Shifted to More Sustainable Commute Mode (average of three months)
Program Q1 2025 Q2 2025 Q3 2025 Q4 2025
Transit passes 269 301 343 449
Bike Love (>12 rides/month) 15 17 19 16
Lyft 4 3 2 2
Total 288 320 364 467
Figures 8 and 9 show the average cost per month and the annual cost for PATMA to mode shift
workers out of single-occupancy vehicles and into a sustainable transportation commute.
Figure 8: Cost per User in 2025
Cost per User Monthly
Average in Q1
2025
Monthly
Average in
Q2 2025
Monthly
Average in
Q3 2025
Monthly
Average in
Q4 2025
Annual Total
Transit pass
subsidy
$19.06 $23.82 $47.65 $41.56 $395.53
Bike Love (users
with 1 or more
trips/month)
$51.22 $71.36 $55.37 $52.16 $644.02
Lyft $54.81 $75.06 $72.10 $134.25 $909.05
Average
cost/user
$41.70 $56.75 $58.37 $75.99 $649.53
The cost per user rising in 2025 is attributable to the end of the VTA Smartpass pilot in August
at which point PATMA started buying full-cost VTA passes again.
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Figure 9 shows the number of parking spaces freed up around town as a result of PATMA’s
work.
Figure 9: Parking Spaces Not Needed
Parking Spaces
Not Needed
Q1 2025 Q2 2025 Q3 2025 Q4 2025 Average
Transit passes 269 301 343 449 341
Bike Love (> or =
12 trips/month)
15 17 19 16 16
Lyft 4 3 2 2 3
Total 288 320 364 467 360
Figure 10 shows the number of avoided vehicle miles traveled as a result of PATMA’s programs.
Figure 10: Avoided Vehicle Miles Traveled in 2025
Program Q1 2025 Q2 2025 Q3 2025 Q4 2025 Total
Transit pass
subsidy
487,895 772,122 755,149 901,552 2,916,717
Lyft 214 175 147 238 774
Bike Love 3,013 4,381 4,357 3,796 15,547
Total 491,122 776,677 759,653 905,586 2,933,038
Adding up the four quarters, PATMA programs reduced vehicle miles traveled by 2,933,038.
And finally, Figure 11 shows greenhouse gas emissions reduced as a result of these programs.
Figure 11: Greenhouse Gases Reduced (tons)
Program Q1 2025 Q2 2025 Q3 2025 Q4 2025 Total
Transit passes, Lyft,
and Bike Love 193 305 298 355
1,152
In 2025, PATMA’s work resulted in a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions of 1,152 tons, up
from 603 tons in 2024.
Testimonials
Beyond the quantitative effect, PATMA also has a qualitative positive impact on workers in Palo
Alto. The following feedback from employees of local businesses shows how much PATMA’s
programs mean to the community. Here are some testimonials received from retail,
accommodations, and personal services establishments.
• "I love the new electric trains. The Express is 25-30 minutes between Palo Alto and San
Francisco 4th and King. In terms of safety, all the signage is easy to read, the trains are
clean and disabled-friendly. I like that Caltrain takes care of all members of the
community who have an array of needs."
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• “I am a business owner and my staff loves the train passes, and I love knowing they can
get here safely and not take up customer parking spaces or have to move their cars
around during the day. Thanks!!!!”
• “This program helps me in many ways. I am able to come to work stress free, I get some
steps in for my health, and it is helping me financially. I love this program. Getting up to
take the train helps me mentally too because it gets me out in the beautiful weather.”
• “I’ve been using the Palo Alto TMA service, so I am really enjoying my bus ride to Union
City.”
• “I bike to Caltrain from my house to 4th & Townsend and catch Caltrain. Huge fan of the
new electric trains. They are much faster, more comfortable, quieter, brighter and
definitely more reliable. As someone in the retail sector, the GoPass program has been a
huge boon to me.”
• “Thanks to this program I am driving less and becoming better with time management.”
• “Agradezco al programa por facilitarme la movilidad hacia mi trabajo. (I am grateful to
the program for facilitating my commute to work.)”
Finances
When PATMA was a burgeoning non-profit, it grew and demonstrated results which helped
make the case for increasing its City funding allocation. Then in 2020, the pandemic altered
commuting habits and parking fund revenues fell dramatically. PATMA has been expanding its
positive impact since then. Figure 12 shows the history of PATMA’s funding allotments since FY
2016.
Figure 12: PATMA Funding Since Inception
PATMA continually strives to be a good steward of taxpayer dollars and use funding efficiently
to maximize benefits.
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Grant Funding
In 2025, PATMA concluded grant work for two organizations that provided funding for pilot
programs.
• VTA Transit Oriented Communities - $24,550 for outreach and marketing along El
Camino Real to encourage mode shift to VTA buses
• City of Palo Alto Utilities - $10,000 grant for e-bike and e-scooter pilot
These grants complemented City of Palo Alto funding. Even though both projects happened in
2024 and 2025, funding for these pilot programs was received in 2024.
Revenues and Expenses
Figure 13 provides specific information about income sources and expenses by month.
Figure 13: PATMA Revenues and Expenses in 2025
Figures 14 and 15 show relative income sources and expenditures. Note that the fair market
value of Caltrain GoPasses ($1,545,984) and VTA Smartpasses ($68,040) in 2025 that PATMA
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received for free or at a discounted price respectively are not included in Figure 14’s Overview
of 2025 Revenues.
Figure 14: Overview of 2025 Revenues
In terms of expenses listed in Figure 15, administration labor (ex.: bookkeeping, taxes, board
meetings, reporting) was 10%, well below the 30% limit required in the contract between the
City and PATMA. Other major program expenses included transit passes, refurbished bikes, Bike
Love rewards, Lyft after hours, the annual commute survey, the e-bike and e-scooter pilot, and
business expenses (ex.: mailbox rental, software, office supplies).
Figure 15: Overview of 2025 Expenses
Memberships $3,000
City of Palo Alto
$400,000
Memberships City of Palo Alto
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Conclusion
With the City of Palo Alto’s support, in 2025, PATMA dramatically increased the number of
workers who left their cars at home and took the train, bus, bike, or electric scooter to work.
The number of transit passes distributed grew from 249 in January to 468 in December. Added
to this number are the workers who received a refurbished bike for commuting, received Bike
Love rewards, took after hours Lyft rides home after transit stopped running, or participated in
the e-bike and e-scooter pilot. When added together, 482 workers commuted by sustainable
transportation mode and freed up that number of parking spaces in the commercial areas of
Palo Alto. Greenhouse gas reductions nearly doubled from 603 tons in 2024 to 1,152 tons in
2025.
A number of collaborators were instrumental to these successes. Thanks to our colleagues at
Caltrain and VTA, additional free Caltrain GoPasses and highly discounted VTA Smartpasses
helped bring down PATMA’s cost/user. Grant providers supported PATMA with specific aspects
of our mode shift work along El Camino Real and for the active mobility pilot. Local and regional
non-profits such as Bike Exchange, Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition, Seamless Bay Area , and Palo
Alto Forward either provided services, volunteers, or introduced PATMA to potential funders to
grow our work. Managers at local businesses and non-profits encouraged their employees to
apply for PATMA’s programs. In addition, PATMA’s Board members provided valuable advice.
All together, these collaborations helped position PATMA to have an even larger impact
reducing traffic, demand for parking, and greenhouse gas emissions while supporting a vibrant
retail community in 2026.
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Three-Year Strategic Plan
July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2029
Submitted to the Palo Alto City Council
Prepared by:
Palo Alto Transportation Management Association
855 El Camino Real #13A-200, Palo Alto, CA 94301
www.paloaltotma.org
March 2026
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Table of Contents
Executive Summary ....................................................................................................................................... 1
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 2
Context .......................................................................................................................................................... 2
PATMA Programs .......................................................................................................................................... 5
Accomplishments .......................................................................................................................................... 6
Three-Year Strategic Planning ....................................................................................................................... 6
Workplan ..................................................................................................................................................... 11
Budget ......................................................................................................................................................... 12
Conclusion ................................................................................................................................................... 14
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PATMA’s Three Year Strategic Plan
July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2029
Executive Summary
Each year, the Palo Alto Transportation Management Association (PATMA) conducts a Three-Year
Strategic Plan with input from its Board of Directors. This plan provides a roadmap of goals,
strategies, tactics, and objectives that ensure the non -profit will be able to help an increasing
number of workers shift from driving single-occupancy vehicles to sustainable transportation
modes.
PATMA’s work supports local businesses with transportation demand management programs that
help companies attract and retain workers: free transit passes, refurbished bicycles, $5/day
rewards for active mobility commutes, and after-hours Lyft rides of less than five miles. For the
past five years, PATMA has been rebuilding from a pandemic-induced 90% drop in transit pass
requests in early 2020 and in 2025 far exceeded pre-pandemic numbers.
For the 12-month period ending December 31, 2025, PATMA programs resulted in a reduction in
demand for 482 parking spaces around town, 2,933,038 fewer vehicle miles traveled1, and 1,152
fewer tons of greenhouse gas emissions. Collaboration with our partners where our goals are
aligned has been key to our progress as has the City of Palo Alto’s generous $400,000 budget
allocation which has allowed PATMA’s programs to nearly double itsimpact in the past year.
Building on these successes, this Strategic Plan provides details about how we will reach the
following goals in the next three years.
• Year 1: Grow PATMA’s impact by focusing mode shift efforts on workers for whom it would
be easiest and most beneficial to switch from driving to train, bus, or bike
• Year 2: Double PATMA’s positive impact from 2025 numbers: transit passes distributed,
parking spaces freed up, and greenhouse gas emissions reduced
• Year 3: Further grow PATMA’s positive impact to reduce traffic congestion, demand for
parking, and greenhouse gas emissions.
We have identified targets for additional mode shift: Palo Alto workers who live in San Jose,
Fremont, Redwood City, East Palo Alto, and Mountain View who could take one train, one bus, bike
or scooter to work.
PATMA is poised to grow our impact further and needs to identify additional funds beyond the
$400,000 budget to pay for additional bus passes, refurbished bicycles, Bike Love rewards, and
additional labor for marketing and program administration. This is a good problem to have: knowing
how we want to grow and being able to describe the path and resources needed to reach our goals
for the next three years.
1 To calculate the total vehicle miles traveled reduction: distance in miles not travelled from home zip code to work
zip code roundtrip, multiplied by the number of weekdays in a month, added up over 12 months.
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Introduction
The Palo Alto Transportation Management Association (PATMA) is a non-profit leading efforts to
reshape commute behaviors around town. Abundant mass transit, active mobility (bicycle, electric
scooter, walking), on-demand ride hailing options, as well as trip planning and real time arrival
apps are available to enable many workers who live and work near major transit pipelines (Caltrain,
VTA 22/522, SamTrans ECR, and the Dumbarton Express) to commute quickly and efficiently
without needing to own a personal vehicle. In this context, PATMA provides information and
incentives that encourage workers to shift out of their single -occupancy vehicles (SOVs) and into
low-carbon transportation options.
There is potential for PATMA to free up more parking spaces and reduce more greenhouse gas
emissions. The following Three-Year Strategic Plan, which is compiled each year for the next three
years, lays out goals, strategies, tactics, and objectives for PATMA’s work supporting Palo Alto
businesses and workers.
Background Context
Several contextual elements inform this strategic plan, including: the City of Palo Alto’s ambitious
greenhouse gas emission reduction goals, the fact that on-road transportation contributes more
than half of Palo Alto’s greenhouse gases emissions, the goals the Palo Alto City Council sets each
January, PATMA’s contract with the City of Palo Alto, PATMA’s bylaws, and PATMA’s mission and
values. The following gives an overview of each element.
Sustainability Climate Action Plan (S/CAP)
The City of Palo Alto set a goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80% below 1990 levels by 2030
and to become carbon neutral by 2030. One S/CAP mobility goal relevant to PATMA regarding
reducing greenhouse gas emissions is “increasing the mode share for active transportation
(walking, biking) and transit from 19% to 40% of local work trips by 2030.” According to PATMA’s
2025 commute survey findings, three of four sectors in Palo Alto already exceed the 40% metric:
service, light office, and technology:
• Service – 49.3%
• Light office – 60.0%
• Tech – 47.5%
• Government – 33.3%
Currently, the government sector is the only one that is not meeting that goal. This year, PATMA will
begin offering programs to City of Palo Alto hourly workers who do not receive benefits, which will
help mode shift more government workers.
PATMA will continue working with the service sector - in retail, food service, accommodation, and
healthcare – which has a high sustainable commute rate already but also high turnover. PATMA will
also continue to market programs to serve more workers in the light office sector. Finally, PATMA
supports mode shift efforts at large tech companies and the City of Palo Alto by sharing annual
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commute survey findings, and in the case of tech companies, tabling at commuter fairs when
requested. All of these efforts contribute results towards the City’s S/CAP goals.
City Council Goals
Each year, the Palo Alto City Council sets their goals for the year. In January 2026, those goals
included:
1. Government efficiency
2. Housing production
3. Economic development
4. Renovation of Cubberley Community Center
PATMA’s programs help address two of these: economic development and government efficiency.
PATMA helps local businesses to attract and retain employees by providing low wage workers with
commute counseling, access to free transit passes, rewards for bicycling to work, and late -night
ride hailing services. These programs contribute to retail vibrancy and economic development.
When PATMA begins providing mode shift programs to hourly City government workers this year,
the City will be outsourcing mode shift work to a contractor instead of hiring new staff within. This is
an example of government efficiency that will save the City money while expanding support for City
workers.
PATMA’s Contract with the City of Palo Alto
The contract between the City of Palo Alto and PATMA provides guidance about how public funds
should be used to ensure the public good as well as planning, reporting, and surveying
requirements.
• Use of City funds – “PATMA shall use the City Funds for “pilot projects” intended to reduce
single occupancy vehicle trips by Downtown and California Avenue Business District
workers, as mutually agreed upon by the City Manager and PATMA. For FY24 and FY25,
$200,000 of City Funds may be used to reduce single occupancy vehicle trips anywhere in
Palo Alto. Pilot projects may include purchase and distribution of transit passes, active
commute rewards, support for carpooling, and other measures to address first mile and
last mile connections. If PATMA uses City Funds to purchase transit passes to give away
free-of-charge, the free transit passes shall be provided solely to low income workers.”
• Planning – “PATMA shall: (a) conduct an annual strategic planning session producing 3-year
goals and objectives and funding requirements, and prepare an annual budget with
projected metrics (cost per mode shift, ROI, etc.), and (b) annually provide to the City a
detailed, updated strategic plan and budget. The strategic plan may utilize scenarios to
illustrate the return on investment associated with different funding levels. The strategic
plan shall identify the projects proposed to be funded with the City Funds for the City
Manager’s review and approval.”
• Reporting – “PATMA shall provide the City with quarterly written reports on the
implementation and effectiveness of pilot programs funded by the City, including
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quantitative measures of SOV trip reduction and mode shift achieved, metrics used, cost
per employee mode shift, and how the City Funds were expended. PATMA shall submit the
reports at the same time that PATMA submits the quarterly invoice to the City.”
• Surveying – “PATMA shall conduct a robust survey of Downtown and California Avenue
Business District employee commute patterns on an annual basis. Additional areas of Palo
Alto where the TMA has been active may be included in the survey.”
PATMA’s Bylaws
PATMA’s bylaws provide operating instructions for the non-profit. One way it does this is by
ensuring PATMA’s board members represent a range of interests among the Palo Alto community
as well as the number of board members PATMA should have.
• Qualifications of Directors. “The Board shall in good faith strive to include as Directors,
representatives from major stakeholder groups serving PATMA’s current or
planned/proposed service areas, including representatives of the following industries:
technology, real estate development, retail and/or hospitality, philanthropy, and traditional
office (e.g., finance, accounting, legal) and including representatives representing
residential interests.”
• Number of Directors. “The authorized number of Directors shall consist of at least five but
no more than thirteen Directors.”
Mission and Core Values
In 2024, PATMA rewrote its mission and values to be more concise and memorable.
Mission
Better commutes for everyone
Core values
• Traffic – lighten traffic congestion
• Parking – reduce demand for parking in commercial areas
• Climate change – transition to a zero-emission transportation system
• Equity – fair outcomes, treatment and opportunities for all
• Local businesses – help local businesses attract and retain employees
• Health – encourage community health
These reflect the Palo Alto City Council’s stated values and priorities and reinforce City policies.
Higher Income Threshold
In January 2025, PATMA’s board decided to raise the threshold to 80% of Area Median Income in
Santa Clara County which in April 2025 was raised to $111,700/year for a household of one.
Altogether, this context provides guidance to PATMA about how to structure our programs to best
serve the public’s interest.
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PATMA Programs
Programs With a $111,700/year Income Threshold
Transit Passes
Currently, PATMA focuses on supporting essential workers in the commercial districts of
Downtown and California Ave, at the Stanford Mall, along El Camino Real, at Midtown, and along
San Antonio Rd. If any of these workers2 are driving to work and make less than $111,700/year, they
may receive free Caltrain, VTA, SamTrans, or Dumbarton Transbay bus passes.
Refurbished Bicycles
In 2022, PATMA piloted a refurbished bicycle program with the local non-profit Bike Exchange. This
refurbished bicycle program is for essential workers in Palo Alto making less than PATMA’s income
threshold who would like to bike to work but do not own a bicycle. If they also need any safety
equipment – helmet, lock, lights – Bike Exchange provides these to each essential worker receiving
a refurbished bike.
E-bike E-scooter Pilot
With funding from the City of Palo Alto Utilities, this pilot studied two mode shift scenarios: active
commutes via e-bike and first/last mile solutions via e-scooter. Five pilot participants making less
than $70,000/year received either an e-bike and safety equipment, or a 12-month e-scooter lease.
The intent was to study how many times a week they used the e-bike or e-scooter, how many
device miles they traveled, and understand supports and barriers to device use. Lessons learned
from this pilot can be found in PATMA’s 2025 Annual Report.
After hours Lyft rides
Workers who live less than five miles from
work and who need to travel home from
work late at night after mass transit stops
can receive a $10 Lyft credit per ride.
Program Without an Income Threshold
Bike Love
PATMA’s Bike Love app provides $5/day up
to $599/year to workers in Palo Alto’s
commercial districts to encourage
commuters to leave their cars at home and
bike or e-scooter to work. Unlike the transit
pass program, there are no income
restrictions for the Bike Love program. The
app was designed to provide attractive
financial rewards to build active mobility
2 With the exception of workers at businesses subject to a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) plan in
which case those businesses are to provide their workers with TDM mode shift programs.
Figure 1: Geofenced Areas for Bike Love Rewards
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habits. See Figure 1 for a map of Bike Love program boundaries within which workers earn rewards.
The Bike Love app also rewards travel to all 30 Caltrain stations for commuters who would be
incentivized to bike or scooter to Caltrain and take the train to work.
In 2025, 49% of the total number of transactions and 27% of the transaction values of redeemed
rewards happened at Palo Alto-based businesses. This is another way that PATMA supports local
businesses and multiplies program impact to benefit the local economy.
Accomplishments
PATMA’s sustainable transportation programs in 2025 resulted in a reduction in demand for 482
parking spaces around town, 2,933,038 fewer vehicle miles traveled, and 1,152 fewer tons of
greenhouse gas emissions. The majority of these results were due to the transit pass program. See
Figure 2 for the number of transit passes activated over the past five years.
Figure 2: Transit Passes Activated 2019-20253
Three-Year Strategic Planning
With the background context listed above, in December 2025, PATMA staff and board members
met to discuss strategic planning for the next three years. Input gathered informed PATMA’s path
3 Note the reductions in the number of transit passes activated in January 2024 and January 2025. Caltrain
GoPasses are good through the end of the year. PATMA asks pass holders to renew each December for the next
year. Given the high turnover in the service sector, many do not renew for the next year as they may have
switched to a job in a different city.
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forward with goals (overall targets to achieve), strategies (plan of action), tactics (specific actions),
and objectives (measurable outcomes) for FY2027-FY2029.
Commute Survey
Recent findings from the 920 workers who completed PATMA’s 2025 Commute Survey identified
opportunities for more sustainable transportation mode shift.
• Service and government sectors: 50.7% of service sector workers and 66.7% of government
workers drive alone to work
• Open to mode shift: 67.8% of workers surveyed who drive alone to work say they are open
to switching to a sustainable commute
• Near transit: 19% live less than one mile from a train or bus that runs from their home city to
Palo Alto. Among survey respondents, 72% live in cities served by a train or bus that runs to
Palo Alto.
• Bike, electric scooter, or walk: 24% live less than five miles from work and are open to an
active commute
• Top 10 home cities among drive alone commuters who are willing to mode shift include:
San Jose, Palo Alto, Redwood City, Sunnyvale, Mountain View, San Francisco, Santa Clara,
San Mateo, Fremont, and East Palo Alto.
• Bike racks: 200 survey respondents would like more bike parking outside of their work
Figure 3 shows the home zip codes of survey respondents and their proximity to transit options.
Green pins represent zip codes where one or more survey respondents live. Red circles show
Caltrain stations and yellow circles represent BART stations.
Figure 3: Survey Respondents’ Proximity to Transit
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These insights as well as the following local and regional context, contribute to Year 1, Year 2, and
Year 3 goals, strategies, tactics, and objectives.
Year 1 (Jul 2026-Jun 2027)
Local and Regional Context
• The portion of Palo Alto’s greenhouse gas emissions from on-road transportation rose from
51.7% in 2022 to 56.8% in 2024.
• The City of Palo Alto continues to enable Vision Zero and active mobility infrastructure that
encourage more active commuting.
• In spring 2026, live information will be available outside Downtown City garages about the
number of parking spaces available inside to help drivers more easily find available parking.
• Commercial and residential development efforts in Palo Alto will accelerate as the Planning
Department processes proposed development applications to help meet the City’s
Housing Element.
• Caltrain continued its PassForward program for 2026, providing free Caltrain passes for
PATMA to distribute to low wage workers.
• Signatures are being gathered for a November 2026 ballot measure on mass transit
funding.
PATMA Goals
• Grow PATMA’s impact by focusing mode shift efforts on workers for whom it would be
easiest and most beneficial to switch from driving to train, bus or bike
• Scale up the number of transit passes distributed and activated
• Scale up the number of workers commuting by active mobility
• Support S/CAP goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
• Support local businesses to attract and retain workers
PATMA Strategies
• Develop or deepen relationships with managers at service sector and light office
businesses
• Develop or deepen relationships with community-based organizations that work on
transportation, housing, climate and/or economic issues (Seamless Bay Area, Silicon
Valley Bike Exchange, Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition, Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce,
Palo Alto Forward, Alta Housing, Avenidas)
• Leverage expertise, connections, and resources with other local and regional organizations
to increase program impacts:
o Transit agencies (Caltrain, VTA, SamTrans, AC Transit)
o Other nearby cities where large numbers of Palo Alto workers live (Redwood City, East
Palo Alto, Mountain View, Fremont, and San Jose)
o Metropolitan Transportation Commission
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o City of Palo Alto (Utilities, Office of Transportation)
o Local businesses
o PATMA board members
PATMA Tactics
• Explore resurrecting a Scoop carpool matching program
• Explore developing a vanpool matching program for low wage workers that super commute
from the Central Valley or near Sacramento
• Explore “transit-friendly work schedules” with local business managers
• Market PATMA programs to hourly City of Palo Alto workers
• Market PATMA programs to assisted living workers
• Conduct spring active mobility marketing
• Conduct summer program marketing
• Promote “Refer a Co-worker” program outreach - workers receive a free $5 coffeehouse gift
card if the coworker they refer receives a transit pass
• PATMA board members reach out to their network to each let five managers at local
businesses know about PATMA’s programs
• Find transportation officials at five cities to let them know about PATMA’s programs --
Redwood City, East Palo Alto, Mountain View, San Jose, and Fremont -- and ask about
communication channels that could help reach people who live in their city and work in
Palo Alto
• Conduct fall commute survey which also serves as a program marketing opportunity
• Help City of Palo Alto parking program collect information from local business managers to
inform parking policy changes
PATMA Objectives
• # freed up parking spaces
• # workers using transit passes
• # workers commuting by active mobility
• # vehicle miles traveled reduced
• # tons greenhouse gas emissions reduced
• # commute survey respondents
Year 2 (Jul 2027-Jun 2028)
Local and Regional Context
• In Year 2, results will be known from the Nov 2026 regional transit funding ballot measure
which will provide critical funding for mass transit and yield service improvements
• Possible upcoming changes in City of Palo Alto parking policies
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• Follow-up from 2025 Urban Land Institute planning study for the Downtown Transit Center.
An example is that Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority is working to activate Palo
Alto’s Downtown Transit Center with better lighting and a café
• Possible availability of BayPasses for low wage Palo Alto workers
PATMA Goals
• Double PATMA’s positive impact from 2025 numbers: number of transit passes distributed,
number of parking spaces freed up, and greenhouse gas emissions reduced
• Identify and secure additional outside funding sources to purchase additional transit
passes, bicycles, and bicycling rewards.
PATMA Strategies
• Negotiate BayPasses for low wage Palo Alto workers
• Develop or deepen relationships with managers at service sector and light office
businesses
• Develop or deepen relationships with community-based organizations that work on
transportation, housing, climate and/or economic issues
• Be open to new opportunities to leverage expertise, connections, and resources with other
local and regional organizations to increase program impacts:
o Transit agencies (Caltrain, VTA, SamTrans, AC Transit)
o Other regional cities where large numbers of Palo Alto workers live
o Metropolitan Transportation Commission
o City of Palo Alto (Utilities, Office of Transportation)
o Other cities in the region
o Local businesses
o PATMA board members
PATMA Tactics
• Three seasonal marketing campaigns
PATMA Objectives
• # freed up parking spaces
• # workers using transit passes
• # workers commuting by active mobility
• # vehicle miles traveled reduced
• # tons greenhouse gas emissions reduced
• # commute survey respondents
Year 3 (Jul 2028-Jun 2029)
Local and Regional Context
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• Assuming the 2026 Bay Area ballot initiative passed providing more funding for transit
agencies which allows them to increase service frequency
• Mobility Hubs may be available around town
• New parking policies may be in place
• New sustainable transportation planning and payment apps may be available
Goals
• Further grow PATMA’s positive impact to reduce traffic congestion, demand for parking,
and greenhouse gas emissions while supporting local businesses and workers.
Strategies
• Track developments in sustainable transportation planning and payment apps
• Develop or deepen relationships with managers at service sector and light office
businesses
• Develop or deepen relationships with community-based organizations that work on
transportation, housing, climate and/or economic issues
• Be open to new opportunities to leverage expertise, connections, and resources with other
local and regional organizations to increase program impacts:
o Transit agencies (Caltrain, VTA, SamTrans, AC Transit)
o Other regional cities where large numbers of Palo Alto workers live
o Metropolitan Transportation Commission
o City of Palo Alto (Utilities, Office of Transportation)
o Other cities in the region
o Local businesses
o PATMA board members
• Expand PATMA’s toolkit of information and incentives to encourage mode shift
• Help expand clean transportation options available to workers in Palo Alto
Tactics
• Develop new case studies of workers who commute by transit or active mobility and
promote
• Test new technology sustainable transportation planning and payment options as they
become available
• Promote Mobility Hubs that are available
Objectives
• # freed up parking spaces
• # workers using transit passes
• # workers commuting by active mobility
• # vehicle miles traveled reduced
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• # tons greenhouse gas emissions reduced
• # commute survey respondents
Workplan
Year 1
The flow of work over the course of FY2027 is shown in Figure 3.
Figure 3: Year 1 Workplan
Jul
‘26
Aug
‘26
Sep
‘26
Oct
‘26
Nov
‘26
Dec
‘26
Jan
‘27
Feb
‘27
Mar
‘27
Apr
‘27
May
‘27
Jun
‘27
Events X X X
Market Transit Passes X X X X X X
Commute Survey X X X
Apply for Grant
Funding
X X X
Deliver Commute
Survey, Annual
Report, and Strategic
Plan reports
X
Market Active Mobility
Programs
X X X X X
Budget
Looking back at funding levels since PATMA’s inception in 2016, PATMA grew over several years
and demonstrated cost-effective successes freeing up parking spaces, reducing greenhouse gas
emissions, and reducing vehicle miles traveled until the pandemic. Figure 4 shows historic budget
trends.
Figure 4: PATMA Funding Since Inception
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The PATMA baseline budget is $400,000. This level allows PATMA to continue with two part-time
staff and pull in additional contractors on an ad hoc basis to support seasonal activities such as
active mobility marketing in the spring and commute survey distribution in the fall. A status quo
budget for FY2027 will allow PATMA to:
• Perform marketing and outreach to target sectors
• Develop or deepen relationships with business managers who are the gatekeepers to
workers who could use PATMA’s programs and services
• Conduct the annual commute survey
• Maintain the number of parking spaces freed up, tons of greenhouse gas emissions
reduced, and ease traffic congestion
In 2025, the cost/user/year, or cost to free up a parking space, was $650 while in 2024 the
cost/user/year was $672. This includes the cost to purchase transit passes, Lyft rides, and $5/day
Bike Love rewards. Figure 5 provides three budget scenarios for PATMA’s projected expenses in
FY2027. The $400,000 scenario represents a continuation of the restored budget PATMA realized in
FY2026. The $375,000 budget would shrink the program to 400 parking spaces freed up. A smaller
$350,000 budget would mean the number of parking spaces freed up would shrink further.
Figure 5: Three Budget Scenarios for FY2027
Program Elements Expenses -
$400,000
budget
Expenses -
$375,000
budget
Expenses -
$350,000
budget
Transit Passes $262,504 $242,504 $217,504
Bike Love Rewards $45,242 $45,242 $45,242
Commute Survey $30,000 $25,000 $25,000
Refurbished Bicycles $5,200 $5,200 $5,200
Lyft Afterhours Rides Home $4,573 $4,573 $4,573
PATMA Administration $35,144 $35,144 $35,144
Business Expenses $17,337 $17,337 $17,337
Total $400,000 $375,000 $350,000
In the $375,000 budget scenario, PATMA would cut staff program hours, reduce marketing on
transit passes and let the number of transit passes distributed fall, and collect fewer commute
survey responses. In the $350,000 budget scenario, PATMA would cut back further on staff hours,
reduce marketing efforts, purchase fewer transit passes, and collect a smaller number of
commute survey responses.
As circumstances change, PATMA has the ability to adjust income and expenses through various
financial levers: reducing labor costs, reducing program expenses, requesting additional GoPasses
from Caltrain and large employers in the area, and increasing grant writing and philanthropic
fundraising.
PATMA will continue to operate in a lean, efficient manner and use our budget effectively to
maximize impact.
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Conclusion
Many public and private organizations in the Bay Area are working hard to facilitate a future
seamless, integrated low-carbon transportation system that will lower personal transportation
costs and reduce GHG emissions. PATMA will continue to monitor developments in these areas
and adjust our programs accordingly to best serve Palo Alto businesses.
In support of the local economy, over the next three years PATMA will look for opportunities to help
more workers shift to a sustainable commute as we raise awareness about the benefits of transit
and active mobility commutes, offer information about sustainable transportation options, and
provide programs and incentives for mode shift.
The Palo Alto TMA runs efficiently with two part-time staff members and the guidance of a
dedicated Board. We are proud of our positive impact as we implement programs that support the
City Council’s goals and the City’s policies. PATMA has ambitious plans to do more although
growing our positive impact will require more resources. This is the main challenge we face in the
next few years. We will continue to look for additional outside funding that will help us buy more
bus passes, refurbished bicycles, and provide Bike Love rewards.
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2025 Commute Survey
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2025 COMMUTE SURVEY REPORT
for
and
PATMA Board Members
Cedric de la Beaujardiere, resident (Chair)
Rob George, Philz Coffee (Treasurer)
Shannon McEntee, resident (Secretary)
Ria Lo, City of Palo Alto
Sebastian Mafla, Sheraton
Alejandra Mier, Coupa Cafe
Steven Lee, resident
December 2025
Prepared by:
Justine Burt
Lucey Gorrill
ALTRANS TMA Inc
302 Toyon Ave, F-410
San Jose, CA 95127
www.altrans.net
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Table of Contents
Executive Summary .................................................................................................................................... 1
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................... 3
Survey Population ...................................................................................................................................... 3
Survey Methodology .................................................................................................................................. 6
Results ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
Key Insights .............................................................................................................................................. 16
Conclusion ................................................................................................................................................ 18
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2025 Commute Survey Report
Executive Summary
In September and October 2025, the Palo Alto Transportation Management Association
(PATMA) team surveyed workers in commercial areas of Palo Alto to learn about their
commute habits and preferences. The team conducted on-line and in-person surveys in
English, Spanish, Mandarin, and Vietnamese beginning with emailing and texting then
following up with door-to-door canvassing. This document provides highlights from the
survey findings.
The three main objectives of the commute survey were to 1) learn how workers commute, 2)
determine which workers are open to shifting their commute from single-occupancy vehicles
to mass transit or active mobility options, and 3) raise awareness of PATMA’s programs.
Based on the 920 completed surveys, Figure 1 shows the percentage of respondents from the
four main sectors into which PATMA classifies workers: technology, service, light office, and
government.
Figure 1: Survey Respondents by Sector
Technology
27%
Service
44%
Light Office
5%
Government
24%
Technology Service Light Office Government
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2025 Commute Survey Report
Figure 2 below provides the primary mode workers use to commute each week. The survey
found that overall, 54.8% of workers surveyed used a single-occupancy vehicle (SOV) as their
primary commute mode in 2025, down from 62% in 2024.
Figure 2: Primary Commute Mode of Survey Respondents
By separating out commute mode by work sector, Figure 3 illustrates sector s with higher and
lower drive alone rates.
Figure 3: Commute Mode by Work Sector
54.8%
33.8%
5.2%4.0%1.6%0.5%
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
Drive alone Transit Carpool Bike Telecommute Walk
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
P
a
r
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c
i
p
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t
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%
36
.
3
%
5.
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4.
2
%
2.
3
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5
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0.
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%
40
.
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.
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6.
7
%
3.
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%
0.
0
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52
.
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%
38
.
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%
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7
%
2.
9
%
1.
2
%
0.
4
%
0.
4
%
66
.
7
%
20
.
1
%
6.
8
%
5.
0
%
0.
9
%
0.
5
%
0.
0
%
0.0%
10.0%
20.0%
30.0%
40.0%
50.0%
60.0%
70.0%
80.0%
Drive alone Transit Carpool Bike Walk Telecommute Other
Service Light Office Technology Government
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2025 Commute Survey Report
With respect to PATMA’s mission, data collected in the 2025 commute survey illuminates
opportunities to reach more workers in order to help reduce traffic congestion, reduce
demand for parking, support small businesses, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and address
social equity issues.
Introduction
In 2025, the Palo Alto Transportation Management Association (PATMA) conducted its tenth
annual employee commute survey as required by the funding agreement between PATMA
and the City of Palo Alto (COPA). PATMA contracted with ALTRANS TMA Inc. to conduct the
survey and performed outreach in September and October 2025.
The survey was designed to identify how Palo Alto employees working in the commercial
areas of Palo Alto - University Avenue (Downtown), California Avenue (Cal Ave), El Camino
Real, the Stanford Mall, the Charleston Middlefield shopping center, and along San Antonio
Road - commute to work, identify individuals currently driving alone who are open to shifting
to a sustainable commute mode, and raise awareness of PATMA’s program offerings.
Survey Population
According to the most recent U.S. Census data, the total worker population in Palo Alto was
109,011 in 2022. The darker shaded areas of Figure 4 show where work centers are clustered
around Downtown, along El Camino Real, and near San Antonio close to Highway 101.
Figure 4: Density of Workers in Palo Alto
Source: U.S. Census OnTheMap, 2022
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2025 Commute Survey Report
The U.S. Census organizes sectors using the North American Industrial Classification System
(NAICS) categories. Figure 5 shows the number of workers by NAICS codes.
Figure 5: Palo Alto Workers by Sector
NAICS Sector Number of
Employees
Percentage
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting 5 0.0%
Mining, Quarrying, Oil and Gas Extraction 1 0.0%
Utilities 282 0.3%
Construction 881 0.8%
Manufacturing 5,152 4.7%
Wholesale Trade 971 0.9%
Retail Trade 3,991 3.7%
Transportation and Warehousing 2,217 2.0%
Information 18,860 17.3%
Finance and Insurance 4,283 3.9%
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing 1,389 1.3%
Professional, Scientific, and Information 23,575 21.6%
Management of Companies and Enterprises 3,049 2.8%
Administration & Support, Waste Management and
Remediation 1,915 1.8%
Educational Services 3,420 3.1%
Healthcare and Social Assistance 30,187 27.7%
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation 831 0.8%
Accommodation and Food Services 4,931 4.5%
Other Services (excluding Public Administration) 2,315 2.1%
Public Administration 756 0.7%
Source: U.S. Census OnTheMap, 2022
PATMA organizes NAICS sectors into four employer categories – service, light office,
technology, and government – and offers programs to workers in all but the technology
sector. Figure 6 shows which NAICS code sectors PATMA includes in the service, light office,
technology, and government categories.
Figure 6: NAICS Codes and PATMA Classification
NAICS Code NAICS Sector Name PATMA
Classification
11
21
22
23
31-33
42
44-45
48-49
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction
Utilities
Construction
Manufacturing
Wholesale Trade
Retail Trade
Transportation and Warehousing
Service
Service
Government
Service
Service
Service
Service
Service
Item B
Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
Item B: Staff Report Pg. 50 Packet Pg. 186 of 212
5
2025 Commute Survey Report
NAICS Code NAICS Sector Name PATMA
Classification
51
52
53
54
55
56
61
62
71
72
81
92
Information
Finance and Insurance
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
Management of Companies and Enterprises
Administrative and Support and Waste Management
and Remediation Services
Educational Services
Health Care and Social Assistance
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation
Accommodation and Food Services
Other Services (except Public Administration)
Public Administration
Technology
Light Office
Light Office
Technology
Light Office
Light Office
Light Office
Service
Light Office
Service
Service
Government
Source: NAICS Association
After sorting Census data for the number of workers in the four categories for statistical
purposes, Figure 7 shows the number of workers in each category and the total worker
population in Palo Alto.
Figure 7: Number of Workers in Four Sectors
PATMA Organization Category Number of Employees % Share
Service 50,651 46%
Light Office 14,887 14%
Technology 42,435 39%
Government 1,038 1%
Total 109,011
Subtracting the 29,000 worker population at the Stanford Research Park, which has its own
transportation demand management programs, leaves us with a worker population of 80,011.
After cleaning the survey data of duplicate responses and incomplete surveys, there were a
total of 920 complete surveys of which:
• 404 respondents were service sector workers (44%)
• 50 were light office workers (5%)
• 247 were tech workers (27%)
• 219 were government staff (24%)
This year’s response rate was higher than the four previous years the survey was conducted.
The number of respondents for each of the ten survey years is shown in Figure 8.
Item B
Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
Item B: Staff Report Pg. 51 Packet Pg. 187 of 212
6
2025 Commute Survey Report
Figure 8: Number of PATMA Commute Survey Responses by Year
Year Number of Respondents
2025 920
2024 885
2023 738
2022 511
2021 551
2019 1,471
2018 496
2017 892
2016 829
2015 1,173
Compared to 2024, stronger working relationships with managers in the service and technology
sectors in 2025 helped boost response numbers.
Survey Methodology
In September and October 2025, the PATMA team reached out to businesses and
organizations to administer the survey. Survey questions asked about the primary travel
mode workers use to commute, their home city, employer, income level, and openness to
sustainable commute options.
The survey was administered through the Fillout.com platform which respondents accessed
via personal smartphones through a QR code, PATMA’s electronic tablets, or their computers.
Fillout’s survey platform offers skip logic and survey branching to optimize question relevance
to different respondents. Paper copies of the surveys in English and Spanish were distributed
to managers at downtown hotels who collected responses from their staff. Electronic surveys
in Mandarin and Vietnamese were administered at selected businesses. Block-by-block, door-
to-door canvassing resulted in a dataset representing businesses and organizations in several
commercial areas. Door-to-door outreach was bolstered by mass texting and email follow-up
to business contacts.
As noted above, the PATMA team secured 920 responses from a citywide worker population
of 80,011. With a 95% confidence level and a sample size representing 1.1% of the
population, the margin of error for this data is ±3%.
Results
Data collected in this survey shed light on several topics:
• how people commute to work,
• where they are coming from,
Item B
Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
Item B: Staff Report Pg. 52 Packet Pg. 188 of 212
7
2025 Commute Survey Report
• considerations that most influence their decision about how to commute, and
• which workers could commute using one main transit or active mobility option.
The following figures show results for each question.
Q1. In which city and zip code do you live?
Among survey respondents this year, the top 10 home cities are shown in Figure 9.
Figure 9: Top 10 Cities of Survey Respondents
Home City Number Survey Respondents
1 San Jose 180
2 Palo Alto 90
3 Redwood City 74
4 Sunnyvale 65
5 Mountain View 64
6 San Francisco 48
7 Santa Clara 41
8 San Mateo 36
9 Fremont 35
10 East Palo Alto 31
Note that 72% of respondents live in cities served by a train or bus that runs to Palo Alto.
Figure 10 maps the home zip codes of survey respondents in San Francisco Bay Area1
counties.
1 The Bay Area refers to the nine counties touching the San Francisco Bay.
Item B
Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
Item B: Staff Report Pg. 53 Packet Pg. 189 of 212
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2025 Commute Survey Report
Figure 10: Number of Respondents by Zip Code
Some survey respondents live beyond the nine county Bay Area near Sacramento, in the North
Bay, and in the Central Valley. Figure 11 shows the average distance of commutes by sector.
Figure 11: Average Commute Distance by Sector (miles)
26.1
23.2
19.9
16.9
0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 30.0
Government
Technology
Light Office
Service
Number of Miles
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Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
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2025 Commute Survey Report
Service sector workers live closer to work in contrast to government workers that on average
commute from farther away.
Q2. What is the name of your employer? (This information will help us analyze commuting
patterns for the four main types of employers [service, technology, light office, and government]
in Palo Alto.)
Employer names of survey respondents were organized into four main sectors of employers in
Palo Alto, as seen in Figure 12.
Figure 12: Survey Respondents by Sector
Note that the number of respondents from technology companies located in Downtown,
Amazon and Salesforce, is 74% higher this year than last. With Return to Office encouragement
from management and corporate concern about greenhouse gas emission reductions, both
tech employers urged their employees to fill out PATMA’s 2025 survey.
Technology
27%
Service
44%
Light Office
5%
Government
24%
Technology Service Light Office Government
Item B
Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
Item B: Staff Report Pg. 55 Packet Pg. 191 of 212
10
2025 Commute Survey Report
Q3. How do you usually travel to work? If you use more than one type of transportation, choose
the one used for the longest distance of your trip.
Many commuters use more than one type of transportation for commuting. To be able to
compare this year’s data with previous years’, we asked people about the main commute mode
they used for the longest segment of their trip. Figure 13 provides information about the
primary commute mode.
Figure 13: Primary Commute Mode
Figure 14 divides this data by sector for 2025 to allow comparisons between service, light office,
tech, and government sectors.
Figure 14: Commute Mode by Sector, 2025
54.8%
33.8%
5.2%4.0%1.6%0.5%
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
Drive alone Transit Carpool Bike Telecommute Walk
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
P
a
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
n
t
s
50
.
7
%
36
.
3
%
5.
8
%
4.
2
%
2.
3
%
0.
5
%
0.
2
%
40
.
0
%
50
.
0
%
6.
7
%
3.
3
%
0.
0
%
0.
0
%
0.
0
%
52
.
5
%
38
.
8
%
3.
7
%
2.
9
%
1.
2
%
0.
4
%
0.
4
%
66
.
7
%
20
.
1
%
6.
8
%
5.
0
%
0.
9
%
0.
5
%
0.
0
%
0.0%
10.0%
20.0%
30.0%
40.0%
50.0%
60.0%
70.0%
80.0%
Drive alone Transit Carpool Bike Walk Telecommute Other
Service Light Office Technology Government
Item B
Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
Item B: Staff Report Pg. 56 Packet Pg. 192 of 212
11
2025 Commute Survey Report
A comparison of commute modes over the past ten years is shown in Figure 15.
Figure 15: Changes in Commute Mode, 2015-2025
Q4 If you drive alone to work, which of the following sustainable commute modes are you
open to taking?
Note that respondents could choose more than one option, and only respondents who said
their main commute mode was by single-occupancy vehicle were given this question.
Figure 16: Sustainable Commute Options Drivers Considering
57
%
56
%
53
%
49
%
52
%
60
%
55
%
56
%
62
%
55
%
18
%
18
%
20
%
27
%
25
%
9%
26
%
24
%
24
%
34
%
5%6%
8%9%
5%
2%
5%
7%
6%
5%
15
%
15
%
12
%
9%9%
7%
12
%
10
%
6%
5%5%5%
7%
6%8%
23
%
2%
1%1%2%
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Drive Alone Transit Carpool Bike/Walk Telecommute
42.3%
11.8%
4.3%
9.6%
0.6%
0.6%
27.0%
3.9%
0 50 100 150 200 250
Train or bus
Carpool
Vanpool
Bicycle
Walk
Telecommute
None, I prefer to drive
Not Applicable
Number of Participants
Item B
Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
Item B: Staff Report Pg. 57 Packet Pg. 193 of 212
12
2025 Commute Survey Report
Note that of 920 survey respondents, 492 drive alone to work and among those, 42% were
open to transit, 12% carpool, 4% vanpool, 10% bicycle, <1% walk, <1% telecommute, and 27%
prefer to drive.
Sorting zip codes of respondents who answered they were open to a sustainable commute
and mapping the top 15 yields the graph below.
Figure 17: Top 15 Zip Codes with Respondents Driving Alone and Open to a Sustainable
Commute
Many of these single-occupancy vehicle commuters may be able to commute by Caltrain,
Caltrain and VTA, Caltrain and SamTrans, Dumbarton Express Bus, bicycle, e-bicycle, or e-
scooter.
Item B
Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
Item B: Staff Report Pg. 58 Packet Pg. 194 of 212
13
2025 Commute Survey Report
Q5. If you drive alone to work, is your home located less than one mile from a Caltrain
station, VTA 22/522 bus stop, SamTrans ECR bus stop, or Dumbarton Express bus stop?
Figure 18: Live <1 Mile from Sustainable Transit Option
Nearly 15% of respondents who drive alone to work report living close to a transit option that
runs directly to Palo Alto.
Q6. If you live less than 5 miles from work, are you open to switching to an active mobility
mode (bicycle, electric bicycle, scooter, electric scooter, or other personal mobility device) for
commuting?
Figure 19: Live <5 Miles from Work and Open to Active Commute
258
175
55
8
0 50 100 150 200 250 300
No
Yes
Not Sure
Not Applicable
Number of Participants
14.7%
13.5%
0.4%
2.5%
9.1%
53.5%
0 100 200 300 400 500 600
Yes
No
I already do
I already do sometimes
I'm thinking about it
Not Applicable
Number of Participants
Item B
Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
Item B: Staff Report Pg. 59 Packet Pg. 195 of 212
14
2025 Commute Survey Report
Q7. What is most important to you when choosing how to commute to work? (select up to 3)
Figure 20: Most Important Considerations When Choosing How to Commute
“Travel time and schedule” predominates the list of factors workers consider when deciding
how to commute. Note that survey participants were able to choose up to three answers.
Q8. Does your workplace need additional bike racks outside?
Figure 21: Need Additional Bike Racks
14.8%
35.5%
69.0%
19.7%
43.9%
14.1%
33.2%
14.3%
9.1%
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700
Accessibility
Cost
Travel time or schedule
Stress reduction
Comfort and safety
Ability to make stops to and from
Flexibility
Environmental impact
Amount of things I need to carry
Number of Participants
23.5%
69.9%
1.6%
0.2%
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700
Yes
No
Not Sure
Not Applicable
Number of Participants
Item B
Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
Item B: Staff Report Pg. 60 Packet Pg. 196 of 212
15
2025 Commute Survey Report
Given that 217 out of 920 workers who answered this survey question said they would like
additional bike racks, there is an opportunity for follow-up with managers in Palo Alto.
Q9. What is your annual salary?
Figure 22: Is Your Annual Salary Less Than $100,000 or More?
Figure 22 shows that 61% of respondents earn less than $100,000/year which makes them
eligible for PATMA’s free transit passes, refurbished bicycles, and after hour Lyft credits. Note
that government workers were asked a different question about income and are not included
in this graph.
Q10. Are there any issues or concerns you would like to share about your commute?
The answers to this open-ended question provide PATMA with insights to improve our
programs, accomplish more mode shift, or share questions and concerns in the aggregate
with our contacts at tech companies and City government.
Concerns raised multiple times by respondents are grouped by topic in Figure 23.
Under $100,000
61%
Over $100,000
39%
Under $100,000 Over $100,000
Item B
Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
Item B: Staff Report Pg. 61 Packet Pg. 197 of 212
16
2025 Commute Survey Report
Figure 23: Respondent Concerns About Their Commute
Topic # Comments
on Topic Sample Comment
Difficulties while driving: traffic,
parking, cost of gas and tolls,
road surface quality
36 "I am stuck in over an hour of traffic on the way
home to San Francisco."
Timeliness of transit: late,
infrequent service, not reliable 28 "Need more bus frequency between East Palo Alto
and Palo Alto downtown."
Limited or no transit near home 15 "There is no direct route from San Ramon to my
workplace near the Caltrain station."
Difficult to get to bus or station 17 "The Caltrain and VTA stops are not within walkable
distance from Milpitas."
Safety, cleanliness, and comfort
of transit and stations 18 "There should be more security and lighting at the
Palo Alto train station."
Housing affordability near work
2
"I live in San Jose with family since renting alone is a
bit much for my budget. Otherwise, I’d rather live
closer to work if I could afford it."
Bike safety concerns 16 "No bike lanes near my house makes biking from
East Palo Alto to Palo Alto a bit dangerous."
Parking issues: cost or
availability 29 "Parking is the biggest problem. Constantly moving
cars across Palo Alto parking lots is time consuming."
Pedestrian safety concerns
3
"Drivers looking to avoid traffic along major streets
like University Ave will drive at illegally high speeds
through the neighborhoods that run parallel to
University (like Hawthorne Ave), making it less safe
for pedestrians and families that live in these areas."
Transporting children 3 "I commute over a bridge with my one year old
daughter who attends day care in Palo Alto."
Compliments gathered from the survey comments section include:
• “I am a business owner and my staff loves the train passes and I love knowing they can
get here safely and not take up customer parking spaces or have to move their cars
around during the day. Thanks!!!!”
• “Thanks for putting VTA back to work!!! When they were on s trike, I had to walk one
hour from the Caltrain station to home!”
• “I am enjoying the Caltrain pass. And meeting new people on the train going and
coming from work.”
• “This program helps me in many ways. I am able to come to work stress free, I get
some steps in for my health and it is helping me financially. I love this program.
Getting up to take the train helps me mentally too because it gets me out in the
beautiful weather.”
• “I'm very grateful for the Caltrain benefit! Thank you!”
Item B
Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
Item B: Staff Report Pg. 62 Packet Pg. 198 of 212
17
2025 Commute Survey Report
• “I am very happy with the program.”
• “I’ve been using the Palo Alto TMA service so I am really enjoying my bus ride to Union
City.”
• “I bike to Caltrain from my house to 4th & Townsend, and catch Caltrain. Huge fan of
the new electric trains. They are much faster, more comfortable, quieter, brighter and
definitely more reliable. As someone in the retail sector, the GoPass program has been
a huge boom to me.”
• “Thanks to this program I am driving less and becoming better with time
management.”
• “Commuting to Palo Alto Downtown is made very easy. I have multiple options
(Caltrain or SamTrans ECR) and I come and go as I please. It's really fantastic thank you
team!”
• “Commuting by bike to Salesforce is great - they have lots of bike racks.”
• “Please continue with Palo Alto Link.”
• “Agradezco al programa por facilitarme la movilidad hacia mi trabajo. (I am grateful to
the program for facilitating my commute to work.)”
• “Me siento muy agradecido con esta ayuda que nos estan brindando. (I feel very
thankful for this help you are providing us.)”
In 2025, the City of Palo Alto began the BayPass program for salaried City staff with benefits.
Feedback includes:
• "I really appreciate having the Caltrain commuter pass. Thank you!"
• "I love the BayPass!"
• "No concerns, I really enjoy free access to BART and Caltrain for work and pleasure."
• "I am very happy in the last year that the City has implemented the Clipper BayPass! I
love the unlimited free travel on public transport. It works seamlessly and I am very
grateful!"
• "I love-love-love the Clipper BayPass! So wonderful."
• "Thanks for BayPass"
• "I bike from Midtown Palo Alto. It's great!"
• "Sometimes the Caltrain is delayed which is challenging when I have early morning
meetings but otherwise living close to work and taking the train every day is very
convenient."
Key Insights
The following insights gleaned from data and comments lead PATMA to believe that
additional mode shift opportunities exist among workers in Palo Alto.
• Overall, the drive alone rate fell from 62% last year to 54.8% this year
• Highest drive alone rates are among government employees even though their
drive alone rate of 66.7% in 2025 fell from 72% in 2024.
• 72% of respondents live in cities served by a train or bus that runs to Palo Alto
Item B
Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
Item B: Staff Report Pg. 63 Packet Pg. 199 of 212
18
2025 Commute Survey Report
• Service sector workers tend to live closer to work and government workers tend to
live farthest away
• 136 respondents (14.7%) live less than five miles from work and are open to an
active commute
• Travel time or schedule is the overarching consideration when deciding how to
commute
• 217 respondents (23.5%) said they needed more bike parking at work
• Barriers to a sustainable commute include perceptions about the timeliness of
trains and buses, safety of stations and stops, safety of biking and scootering on
roads with cars, and demands outside of work on their time.
These data point to the potential for mode shift among workers who live less than five miles
from work or who can take one train or bus to work in Palo Alto.
Conclusion
Given the openness of respondents to sustainable commute modes and the proximity of their
home or workplace to transit options, survey results illuminate opportunities to mode shift
more workers who commute to Palo Alto by providing information, equipment, and
incentives. Some people would benefit from more availability of refurbished bikes, electric
bikes, and electric scooters to connect to transit or for commutes of less than five miles.
Others would benefit from information about real time train and bus arrivals, Guaranteed
Ride Home availability, rapid bus schedules and routes, and safer bicycle routes between
home and work.
Item B
Attachment A - 2025 Palo
Alto TMA Annual Report,
2027-29 Strategic Plan, and
2025 Commute Survey
Item B: Staff Report Pg. 64 Packet Pg. 200 of 212
City Council
Staff Report
Report Type: SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
Lead Department: Police
Meeting Date: May 11, 2026
Report #:2605-6328
TITLE
Proclamation Recognizing National Police Week as May 10-16, 2026 and National Peace
Officers' Memorial Day as May 15, 2026
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Proclamation Recognizing National Police Week and National Peace Officers'
Memorial Day 2026
APPROVED BY:
James Reifschneider, Police Chief
Item AA1
Item AA1 Staff Report
Item AA1: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 201 of 212
National Police Week, May 10-16, 2026 and National Peace
Officers’ Memorial Day, May 15, 2026
WHEREAS, the United States Congress and President of the United States have designated May
15, 2026 as National Peace Officers’ Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as Police Week; and
WHEREAS, the members of the Palo Alto Police Department play an essential role in safeguarding
the rights and freedoms of its citizens; and
WHEREAS, it is important that all citizens know and understand the problems, duties, and
responsibilities of their police department, and that members of our police department recognize their
duty to serve the people by safeguarding life and property, by protecting against violence or disorder,
and by protecting the innocent against deception and the weak against oppression or intimidation; and
WHEREAS, the Palo Alto Police Department has grown to be a modern and progressive law
enforcement agency which unceasingly provides a vital public service; and
WHEREAS, the City of Palo Alto asks all citizens to join in honoring the police officers, past and
present, who by their faithful and loyal devotion to their responsibilities have rendered a dedicated
service to their communities and, in doing so, have established for themselves an enviable and enduring
reputation for preserving the rights and security of all citizens.
NOW, THEREFORE I, Vicki Veenker, Mayor of the City of Palo Alto on behalf of the entire City
Council do hereby proclaim the week of May 10-16, 2026, as Police Week and urge all citizens of Palo
Alto to observe Friday May 15, 2026 as Peace Officers’ Memorial Day in honor of those peace officers
who, through their courageous deeds, have lost their lives or have become disabled in the performance
of duty.
Presented: May 11, 2026
______________________________
Vicki Veenker
Mayor
Proclamation
Item AA1
Attachment A -
Proclamation Recognizing
National Police Week and
National Peace Officers'
Memorial Day 2026
Item AA1: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 202 of 212
City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: STUDY SESSION
Lead Department: Administrative Services
Meeting Date: May 11, 2026
Report #:2512-5685
TITLE
FY 2027 Proposed Operating and Capital Budget - Finance Committee Update and Council Budget
Discussion. CEQA Status – Not a project
RECOMMENDATION
This study session is intended to facilitate next steps in the FY 2027 Budget process. I The study
session also provides an opportunity for the Finance Committee to discuss with the City Council
the status of FY 2027 budget review in preparation for the Committee’s budget wrap-up work
on May 19, 2026.
Staff recommends that the City Council:
Review the current proposed budget adjustments to the Fiscal Year 2027 Proposed
Operating and Capital Budgets and Municipal Fee Schedule in alignment with the work
completed by the Finance Committee on May 5, 2026 and May 6, 2026;
Review the areas of focus for the City Council as identified by the Finance Committee
and staff; and
Provide feedback to the Finance Committee on any areas of focus or additional
deliberations to review as part of the Budget Wrap-up Meeting scheduled for May 19,
2026.
ANALYSIS
Finance Committee reviewed the FY 2027 Proposed Operating and Capital Budgets and
Municipal Fee Schedule at the Finance Committee Meeting on May 5, 2026 and May 6, 2026.
This report supports the discussion on the Finance Committee proposed adjustments to the FY
2027 budgets and/or Municipal Fee schedule.
Item 4
Item 4 Late Packet Report
Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 203 of 212
FY 2027 Budget documents are referenced below:
FY 2027 City Manager Proposed Budget Transmittal Letter1
FY 2027 Proposed Operating Budget2
FY 2027 Proposed CIP Budget3
Budget Transmittal to City Council (May 4, 20264) - Agenda Report
Finance Committee Review of Proposed Budgets (May 55 and May 6, 20266) Agenda
Report
Finance Committee Review of Proposed Municipal Fee (May 6, 2026) Agenda Report
FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
1 https://www.paloalto.gov/files/assets/public/v/1/administrative-services/city-budgets/fy-2027-city-
budget/proposed/fy-2027-proposed-transmittal-letter_online.pdf
2 https://www.paloalto.gov/files/assets/public/v/1/administrative-services/city-budgets/fy-2027-city-
budget/proposed/fy-2027-proposed-operating-budget_revised.pdf
3 https://www.paloalto.gov/files/assets/public/v/1/administrative-services/city-budgets/fy-2027-city-
budget/proposed/fy-2027-proposed-capital-budget-book_online.pdf
4 https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=18709
5 https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=18568
6 https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=18574
Item 4
Item 4 Late Packet Report
Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 204 of 212
ATTACHMENTS
APPROVED BY:
Item 4
Item 4 Late Packet Report
Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 205 of 212
1
Nonprofit Funding Levels Options for Consideration
Option A: No
Additional Funding
Option B: Keep Total
Nonprofit $’s Flat at
FY2026 Level $6.74M
Option C: Add Specific
Additional Direct
Allocations
Option D: Maintain
FY2026 Phase I Grant
Funding Levels
Includes:
•FY27 budget direct
allocations*
($78,280)
•$111k partially
funds add’l Direct
Allocations**
•No funding for
NPW Phase I grant
process
Includes:
•FY27 budget direct
allocations* ($78,280)
•$165,418 partially
funds add’l Direct
Allocations**
•No funding for NPW
Phase I grant process
Includes:
•FY27 budget direct
allocations*
($78,280)
•$235k fully funds
add’l Direct
Allocations**
•No funding for NPW
Phase I grant
process
Includes:
•FY27 budget direct
allocations*
($78,280)
•$235k fully funds
add’l Direct
Allocations**
•$193,366 to allocate
to NPW Phase I
grant process
Funding Gap $0 $54,418 $124,000 $317,366
*FY2027 Proposed Budget Direct Allocations (Ongoing) = Environmental Volunteers ($10,780), Neighbors
Abroad ($17,500) & YCS YCI ($50k)
**Additional Direct Allocations = Magical Bridge ($150k), Cal Ave Music/PARF ($40k) & UNAFF ($45k)
Attachment AItem 4
Attachment A - Nonprofit Funding Levels Options
for Consideration
Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 206 of 212
1
Nonprofit Funding Levels Options for Consideration
Option A: FY 2027
Proposed Budget
Option B:
Add $54,418
Option C:
Add $124,000
Option D:
Add $317,366
Description Proposed budget
assumptions
Keep Total Nonprofit $’s Flat at
FY2026 Level $6.74M
Make Specific Additional
Allocations
Maintain FY2026 Phase I
Grant Funding Levels
HSRAP & CDBG &
Operating Services
$6,492,914
$942,971 HSRAP + $152k CDBG + $5,397,943 Operating Services (includes $200k for allcove)
FY 27 Budget Direct
Allocations
$78,280
Ongoing $: Environmental Volunteers ($10,780), Neighbors Abroad ($17,500) & YCS YCI ($50,000)
Additional Direct
Allocations**$111,000
For partial direct
allocations &/or
Phase I
$165,418 (Partial funds)
($111k + $54,418)
$235,000
($111k + $124k)
$235,000
($111k + $124k)
$0 $0 $193,366
(remainder of the $317k)NPW Phase I grant
process
Total Nonprofit $’s $6,682,194 $6,736,612 $6,806,194 $6,999,560
Funding Gap from Proposed Budget $54,418 $124,000 $317,366
**Additional Direct Allocations $235k = Magical Bridge ($150k), Cal Ave Music/PARF ($40k) & UNAFF ($45k)
Attachment AItem 4
Attachment A - Nonprofit Funding Levels Options
for Consideration
Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 207 of 212
Attachment B:CIP – KPIs: track delays, cost increase s, & deferred spending by program area.
Original % Reappropriated
Item 4
Attachment B - CIP - KPIs track delays, cost
increases, & deferred spending by program area
Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 6 Packet Pg. 208 of 212
Project Deferrals by Program Area and Project
Attachment B:CIP – KPIs: track delays, cost increases, & deferred spending by program area.
Item 4
Attachment B - CIP - KPIs track delays, cost
increases, & deferred spending by program area
Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 7 Packet Pg. 209 of 212
Cost Increases by Program Area and Project
Attachment B:CIP – KPIs: track delays, cost increases, & deferred spending by program area.
Item 4
Attachment B - CIP - KPIs track delays, cost
increases, & deferred spending by program area
Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 210 of 212
Cost Increases by Program Area and Project (continue)
Attachment B:CIP – KPIs: track delays, cost increases, & deferred spending by program area.
Item 4
Attachment B - CIP - KPIs track delays, cost
increases, & deferred spending by program area
Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 211 of 212
Attachment C
Public Tree Maintenance Objectives
For public tree maintenance, the main objectives for tree work associated with our target 7-
year pruning cycle are:
• Public Safety. This involves tree work to achieve hazard reduction, pedestrian
clearance, vehicle clearance, and sign or street light visibility. For some species and
situations this may also involve crown reduction and/or end weight reduction
pruning.
• Tree Health. This work focuses on the removal of dead, damaged, or diseased tree
parts. This may also include removal of basal sprouts and defects such as crossing
branches.
• Tree Longevity. This work focuses on structural pruning to ensure long term tree
stability and growth.
The goal of the maintenance program is to keep the tree growing according to its natural
form whenever possible. Most tree species do best when allowed to grow based on their
genetics. This generally results in fewer long-term issues, and lower overall long-term
maintenance costs. Correction of major issues when a tree is young and then minimal
regular maintenance to catch new issues involving the main objectives of public safety,
tree health or tree longevity as they arrive is our core maintenance strategy.
In order to include aesthetics as a stand-alone maintenance objective, a significant budget
increase would be required for the Street Tree Maintenance contract. Reducing the pruning
cycle down to a 3- or 4-year return time would allow for an increased level of service. At
that higher level of service an increase in proactive maintenance would allow for greater
attention to smaller details, leading to more emphasis on aesthetics. This would catch
potential tree issues when small, and corrective measures would be more minimal than if
they occurred during a 7-year return time.
Purely aesthetic pruning tends to lead to artificially perfect trees, requiring even more
maintenance than a 3-year cycle could provide to maintain the forced shape. An example
of this level of maintenance would be the urban canopy at Disneyland or other similar
highly manicured resort destinations.
It should be noted that the Electric Line Clearance Tree Trimming Contract is part of a
separate program. That contract has a much narrower scope of work and does not provide
whole tree maintenance as part of the scope for either private or public trees that require
line clearance pruning. The main objectives for that work focus primarily on compliance
with state regulations on clearance distance and public safety.
Item 4
Attachment C - Public Tree
Maintenance Objectives
Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 10 Packet Pg. 212 of 212