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August 9 .. 1990
HONORABLE CITY COUNCIL
Palo Alto, California
OOARRY ROADJM!!Q!'JlTIlHRSlAO IIITERSECTION I~II'l'l!
Members of the Council:
23
'l'he purpose of this report is to recommend that the Council:
(1) approve the proposed ~arry Road/Arboretum Road intersection
improvements, {2j approve the Negative Declaration prepared for the
project, and (3) authorize the Mayor to execute an agreement with
the County of Santa Clara (Attachment it.
BACKGROUND
As a part of previously agreed upon lJIitigation agreements .. stanford
is required#, by the City of Palo Al to, to construct certain
improvements at the interse<::tion of Quarry Road and Arboretun Road.
The p,roposed project includes: (a) the -.ridening of eastoound
Quarry Road 'West of Arboretum Road to accommodate an exclusive
l'ight-turn lane" a through lane" and a left-turn lane; (b)
restriping of the northbound ArboretuD Road to provide for three
lanes of traffic at the intersection; and (c) related changes to
utilities~ traffic signals, striping, and signing~ Tbe proposed
project ~ill also require removal of 13 existing oak trees~
Stanford will provide the necessary easements, and pay for and
construct. all of the improvemer.ts and changes related to this
proposed project. Thereafter, the city of Palo Alto will assume
full respollsibility for maintenance" traffic control and
enforcement, and other related functions.
The July 20, 1990 staff report to the Planning Commission
(Attachment 2J provides useful information concerning the origin
of the mitigation requirement, existing conditions and the proposed
improvements" as ~el1 as a related future potential improvement
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project. The subject of the potential, future, larger-scale
project is raised at this time for informational purposes only.
No approval is being considered at this time.
ARB REVIEW
The proposed project requires rerucval of 13 existing oak trees
along the south side of Quarry Road and. therefore, ~as brought
before the Architectural Review Board (ARS) for their review and
comment. stanford has proposed that 13 replacement trees be
planted aloog the north edge of the Stanford arboretum, bet~een
Bla~e Wilber Road and the Hoover Pavilion, to help better define
the limits of the ArboretUm. Such a location 'liouId also avoid
future, potential removal due to any development of adjacent sites.
The proposed projElct .... as reviewed by the ARB on July 19" 1990. The
ARB passed a :notion (4-0) statinq -A master plan should be
lmplemented for landscaping for the ultimate phasing, which could
include existing trees in the median. A professi~.al landscape
architect should be employed to do the master plan.-
Comments by ARB members reflected a desire to: (a) look at this
current project. in the COl'ltext of a landscape master plan; (b)
incorporate the e~i5ting 13 trees, that are to be removed as part
of the current proposed project, into the future median of the
future potential project; (3) expand the median of tlle f\::ture
potential project from S. feet to 10 feet to create a more
substantial landscaped area; and {4) plant trees in the anticipated
location of the side planting strip for the potential future
project so that they have more years of maturity, at 5uch time that
the potential future project is built. ARB members also expressed
concern about disruption to traffic and increased costs th,at ...-ill
result from constructing the proposed project. at this time, and the
future potential project at some later time.
The proposed project .. ill 'itliden an existing roadway and is
considered to have some effect on the ph:tsical development of the
City. Therefore, the proposed project lIlas brought before the
Planning commission for its r~view and comment in accordance with
section 19.04.~~ of the Palo Alto Municipal Code.
The proposed project was revie-wed by the Planni.ng Commission on
July 25# 1990. The Planning commission passed a motion (6-1):
(a) finding that the proposed project is consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan and that it .. ill not have a Significant adverse
environmental impact, (b) recommending approval of the project, and
(c~ expressing support for the ARB recommendation concerning the
development of a comprehensive landscape plan _ Comments by
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Planning Commission ~~rs reflected an interest in the landscape
related issues raised by the ARB, as well as a serious concern with
the existing features of Arboretum Road bet~een Quarry ROdd and
Palm D:rivea
Staff has considered several alternatives concerning the e~isting
trees and the replacement trees. These include the follo~ing:
1. Locate the median ar091KlJlQ~ existing trees so that they do
not need to ~ moved or destroyed. The resultant off-set
(27 to 37 feet) of Quarry Road across the intersection makes
such an alternative impossible, ~ithout a major
corresponding widening of the other Quarry Road intersection
leg.
2. Expand the median of t.he future, potential proj.g_G_t f1;_Q~~
{_eet to 10 feet. With a 5-toot median, the resultant off
set (12 feet) of Quarry Road across the intersection is
minimally acceptable. However, vith a 10-foot median~ the
resultant off-set (17 feet) makes such an alternative
unacce~able, vithout videninq the other Quarry Read
intersection leg.
1. Remove the 13 trees from their current l<:x:ation andm_p_l.ant
~b.eIl. _lI;!lsewhere. The City's Arborist has concluded that most
of these trees are no·t in good condition and would not be
expec~ed to survive transplanting, unless it vas done over
a two year cycle.
4. Plant new repla9~_ment trees in the planting strlIL...f2..rmm~]le
~rrent proposed project. This is not a suitable location
due to: (a) the presence of an existing" underground ... large
concrete utility duct bank within 30 inches of the surCace"
and (b) the probable temporary nature of this project ~hich
would necessitate their eventual removal. Drought tolerant
shrubs are to be placed in the planting strip as part of
this current proposed project.
S. PJ,ant ne ... replacement t.rees in the ant_~tc; __ j..Q..aJ;_§'_c:Jm location of
tlIe planting strip for th~mpo:tential. future project. so that
l1V~Y wil.J have more years of maturity. lIIbile it is possible
to establish the location of the future planting strip ~ith
some reasonable degree of confidence~ if trees vere planted
there now~ their ~oot system and branch~s would be subject
to considerable potential damage from construction
equipment~ at such time that the future~ potential roadw"ay
p.roject vas built.
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staff believes that it vould be appropriate to: (a) plant
replacement trees in a location~ where they ~ill remain
undisturbed,. as suggested by Stanford: and (b) to require a
landscape master plan. in conjunction with the review of a specific
project, Yhen one is proposed for the psychiatric hospital facility
on the currently vacant site south of Quarry Road and 'West of
Arboretum Road.
~GREEMENTS
The current right-of-way line for Quarry Road is coterminous with
the city-county boundary; therefore. the widened portion of Quarry
Road will be outside Palo Alto city limits and within the
jurisdiction of the county of Santa Clara. In order to construct
the proposed project, an agreement with the County is required
whereby the County consents to the constru~tion (by Stanford}, and
maintenance and traffic enforcement (by the cityJ and, whereby,
Palo Alto agre~s to take on such responsibility, hold the County
har~less, and not request any fu~s from the ~ounty.
It is expected that the County Board of Super~isors will pass a
resolut.ion approving such an agreement (Attachment 1) in early
September. staff is re"quest.ing: that Council authorize the Mayor
to execute such an agreement· when it is approved by the County
Board of Supervisors.
In addition., the City, 'With Stanford, ..... ill be developing the
appropriate easements for the widened portion of Quarry Road and
some related utility relocation work. SUch easements will require
fut.ure Council approval. This will proceed with the understanding
that: (1) Stanford is agreeable to· construct the project to City
standards and to provide such easements, as are necessary. at no
cost to the City, and (2) the city is agreeable to as-sume
responsibility for maintenance {roac1way, landscaping, and sidewalk}
and traffic control at no cost to Stanford.
An initial stu-d)' recommending a Negative Declaration has been
completed and is included as part of the July 20, 1990 report to
the Palo Alto Planning commission (Attachment 2).
REC'OMMENDATION
Staff r-ecommends that the Council: (1) approve the proposed Quarry
Road/Arboretum Road intersection iZ'lprovements., {2} approve the
Negative Declaration for the project. and (3) authorize the Mayor
to execute an agreement with the County of Santa Clara, in a form
substantially similar to the one attached (Attachment 1J.
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Respectfully sU~Dltted,
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Official
ager
KENNETH R. SCHRE I BER
Director of Planning and
Community Environment
1. Agreement between County of Santa Clara and the
city of Palo Alto regarding Quarry Road
2. July 20" 1990 staff repo·rt to Palo Alto Planning
Commission" including Environmental .~sessment
cc! Stanford University (Julia Fremon, Michael Mc¥~ight"
Andrew Doty .. Rosemary McAndre~s)
City of Menlo Park (Jan Dolan)
Sand Hill Corridor Distribution List
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A G R B ! ~ E • T
THIS AGREEMENT ... entered into this __ day of______ _ ___ •
1990 .. by a.nd between the county of santa Clara" a political
sUbdivision of the State of California (-CountyB) and the City of
Palo Alto" a .municipal corporation of the state of California
(-City·};
WHEREAS~ the City owns ... ~ithin its corporate limits, ~
public street" known as Quarry Road; and
WHEREAS.. the City desires to widen and improve" or to
cause to be ~idened and improved# said Quarry Road... such improve
ments to include ... but not be limited to -widening to accoll"..modate one
additional approach lane in the east 00u • .d direction at the
Quarry/Arboretum intersection". a planting strip and a sidewalk~ and
WHEREAS" the widened portion of Quarry Road will ~.tend
outside the corporate limits of the City" and into unincorporated
jurisdiction of the County; and
WHEREAS. sections 5115-5117 of the streets and High ... ·ays
Code require that the County COfisent to such construction ~ork on
roads. or portions thereof ... within its pclitical jurisdiction; and
WHEREAS" section 2105 ~f the Venicle Code requires that
toe County consent to the City's enforcement of city traffic
regulations on roads., or po,rtions thereof" lII'ithin county jurisdic
tion; and
WHEREAS. the County is willi_ng to give its consent in
consideration for the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth~
NOW" THEREFORE, the parties hereto do hereby agree as
follows:
1. Consent. The county hereby gives its consent to the
city to widen and improve. and to enforce CityY s traffic laws and
regUlations on and withjn" Quarry Ro.ad~ the -widened portion of
which 'iiill be outside the corporate ljmits of City and within the
political jurisdiction of Count.y. It is understood and agreed that
the construction work to be done pursuant to this agreement shall
be performed by or under contract to Stanford University.
2. Maintenance. The city shall be rl?sponsible for
maintairlinq Quarry Road, and specifically" that widened portion of
Quarry Road within the political jurisdiction of County. in a safe
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condition, and in accordance ~ith qenerally recognized standards
for the maintenance of city streets.
l. Hold Harmless. The City hereby agrees to defend,
indemnify and hold harmless the County of Sa.nta Clara. its Soar·] of
SUpervisors, ~rds, commissions, officers~ employees and agents
from any and all cia ills for liability .. losses.or dam.cge arising out
of .. or alleqed to arise out of, or in connection vith, the des!gn,
c~structicn, alteration, maintenance or use of Quarry Road.
4. No Cost to ~oo~ The work to be done pursuant to
this agreement .. including traffic enforcement. .. construction and the
continuing maintenance of QUarry Road, shall be done at no ~t to
the County.
The parties hereto have executed this agreement the day
and year first hereinabove written.
ATTEST: Chairman, Board of Supervisors
clerk of Said Board Sus::mne Wilson
APPROVED AS TO FOR)(:
county counsel
Mayor of Palo Alto
city Clerk Mike Cobb
APPROVED AS TO FORM':
City Attorney
swc7 J 31f9 Obdc
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July 20, 1990
HONORABLE PLANNING COMKISSION
Palo Alto, Callrornla
'.
o ATTACHMEl'a 2.
QUl.RFY ROAD/ARBOREWM ROAD INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS
Xembers of the commission:
The ~rpose of this report is to provide information regarding a
proposed project to make certaIn improvements at the intersection
of Quarry Road and Arboretum Road. A Negative Declaration 'has been
prepared: for the project.. Staff recommends that the Planning
Commission find the project is consistent with the Comprehensive
Plan and that it will not have a siqnificant, adverse environmental
impact. and recommend approval of the project to the City council ..
BACKGROUND
As part of the conditIons of approval fer the stanford Medical
School Office Building and the P~c'kard Children's Hospital (New
Children's· Hospital) projects, Stanford is required to monitor
traffie volumes at six intersections and to make specified
improvements at any of t.hese intersections I at such time that their
Level of Service is shown to exceed -0". One of the six" the
Quarry Road/Arboretum Road intersection l bas exceeded LOS D.
AccordinglYr Stanford bas submitted plans for an improvement
project" which include 'Widenirlgl the eastbound Quarry Road approach
and restriping the northbound Arboretum Road approach" as provided
for in the conditions of approval for the above referenced medical
facilities.
Stanford 'Will pay for and construct the improvements. Thereafter"
the City of Palo Alto will assume responsibility for maintenance"
traffic control and enfo:cement" and other related functions.
Section 19.0440SG of the Palo Alto Municipal Cede states" -All
matters affectinq the physical development of the city shall be
submitted to the PIZIInning CommIssion for a report to the City
Council as to conformity to the master plan. -NOnDZIIlly ~ tor
similar types of Illprovements" this is handled through the Planrling:
COII1lIission's annual review and recommendation on the City's Capital
Improvement Program. The subject improvement project was shown in
the City's CIP for FY 86-91~ FY 81-92, and FY 88-93 as a project
in one of the out years" and not as a current year projecta The
subject project has not been included in the two ~ost recent elP's
for TV 89-94 and FY 90-95a Therefore" the project is now before
the Planning commission for review and recommendation to the City
Council.
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IXIS1ING CQNplTIONS
CUrrently, ~he segment or Quarry Boad west of ArbcretUD Road is 40
feet 'Wide from curb to curb, and Is striped for four lanes of
t.raffic: two t.hrough lanes in the 'Westbound direction and an
e~clusive rlqht-turn lane ar~ shared through/left-turn lane in the
eastbound direction.. .In acSdltlon ... a 5-foot wide plantinq strip
and a sidewalk exist on both sides.. '!'he northbound Arboretum
approach Is presently striped for two lanes of traffic: one
e~clusive left-turn lane and one shared left/through/right lane in
the northbound direction. Exhibit 1 (Attachmen~ A) illu6~ratu
these features in r~latlon t.o other segments of tbe .intersection.
The results of the aonitorlnq program conducted by Stanford,
indicate that the total peak hour traffic volume passing through
this intersection and the corre.spondil19 Level of service have tleen
as follows:
1985 2,SIS vehicles Leve} Of Service 0 (.83)
1986 2,376 vehicles Level Of Service C (.70)
1987 2,714 vehicles Level Of Service ... E C·9)}
1988 2,S63 vehicles Level Of Service 0 (.99)
1989 2,564 vehicles Level Of Service D (.88)
1990 2,529 vehIcles Level Of Service E (.91)
fBQ~ED IMEBQVEMI:t!l:~
The chanqes included in the proposed project are illustrated in
Exhibit 2 (AttaChment Bl. and include the following:
1. The segment of Quarry Road west of ArboretUll Ro.ad is to be
widened from 40 feet to 54 feet fer a distance of 420 feet
(plus a 90 foot taper). to provide one additional approaCh
lane in the eastbound direction.
2. The widened. eastbound, Quarry Road approach is to be
striped as one e~clusive left-turn lane, one through lane~
and one e~clusive riqht-turn lane.
3. Thirteen existing Oak
Transplanting these trees
their existing condition
survival.
trees are to be removed.
is not recommended because of
and the low probability of
4~ Thirteen replacement trees are to be planted at an alternat~
location, within the general surrounding area. The species
and specific location are to be determined by mutual
agreement between Stanford and City 5taff~
The new planting strip is not a suitable location tor new
trees due to the presence of an existinq, larqe, concrete~
utility duct baM carrying high voltage electrIcal and
Quarry Road/Arboretum Road
Intersection Improvements
7/20/90
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communication lines 'Within 30 inches of the surface, as 'Well
as the probably temporary nature of the current project
which would necessitate their eventual removal.
s. Drought tolerant I5hrubs are to be placed in the new planting
strip.
6. Tbe northbound ArboretUm Road approach is to be restriped
as one eXClusive left-turn lane, one share" left/through
lane, and ~e right/througb lane. This lane stripIng is a
slDall JDOdificatlon to that described in the ':lltlgatlon
agreement, 'Which identifie~ the center lane as an exclusive
through lane rather than the shared leftjthrouqh lane now
proposed. No widening of Arboretum Road is included as a
part of this project.
The lane strlpin9 change is due to the fact that during the
morning peak period the volume of left-turning traffic is
greater than the volume of through traffic, and during the
noon peak the left and through traffic volumes are
appro~imat~ly the same. The proposed striping on Arboretum
Road yields a better Level of Service during morning and
noon peak periods" and approximately the same Level of
Service d,urinq the evening peak period" as shovn below.
ne Geom t . cs -no<> LOS--
~Jl EXIST -L ~ 0.90 0.80 0.87
~ lY ~
IUTIGATION -J -ill ~ 0.85 0.89 0.71 -AGREEMENT ---. )I~ r-'
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---' .-IlL ~ PROPOSED --0.77 0.70 0.70
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,. Modifications to the existing traffic signals" relocation
of the traffic signal controller, bandicapped provisions,
and other related items are included as part. of tbe
proposed improvements.
Quarry Road/Arboretum Road
Intersection Improvements
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Subject to approval b1 the Council ~n August 13th~ construction of
these improvements 18 scheduled to beq1n in late September and to
be completed by the end. of October a
FUTURE poTENT rAL I MPROV£MENTS
Apart trom this curreut proposed project l stanford has also
prepared schematic plans for a potential. larger-scale project that
~ould further ~lden ~~arry ~oad from Arboretum Road to Welch ~oad
and on to Blake Wilbur Poad~ ThIs larqer-scale project W~5 bei~
developed in conjunction with and consideration of: (1) the
anticipated development of, and access requirements torI a proposed
psychiatric hospital facility on the currently vac~nt site south
of Quarry ~oad and west of Arboretum Road; (2) tbe anticipated
future requirement. per the existing mitigation agreement, to make
certain improvements to the Quarry RoadjWelch Road intersection at
sucb time tllat the Level of Service reaches ·E· # and (3) the
present requirement to make the currently proposed improvements at
the Quarrf Road/Arboretum Road intersectioh. Stanford has chosen
to proceed with the current, smaller-scale project, rather than the
lar-qer-scale project, 'With the general understanding that they will
likely be required to implement the larger-scale project. at some
future date ..
The larger-scale project prGvides for additional roadway widening
(up to 12 feet) along Quarry Road to accommodate t~o thro~qh lanes
in each direction, turn lanes, on-street bike lanes. and a five
toot median in the roadvay~ This larger-scale project ~ould also
include a planting strip and sidewalk on both sides as well as ne~
trees in the neW plantIng strip. Exhibit), (Attachment C)
illustrates t.he qeneral features of the larger-scale project ..
EXhibit 4 (Attachment DJ provides ~ sketch showing a comparative
perspective of existing conditions. the smaller-scale (current)
project and the larger-scale (potential future) project. The
revie .. and approval of ~he larger-scale project. 'Would occur at some
future date, if and when another mitIgation is triggered and/or
the psychiatric hospital facility site is developed.
The subject of this potential" future" larger-scale
raised at this time for informational purposes only ..
is heing considered at tbis time~
project is
No approval
In developing the current smaller-scale pioject~ efforts have been
made to anticipate the requirements of the larger-scale project so
as t.o try and minimize t.he amourl:t of potential .. futUre disruption~
CO~~EHENSlVE PLAN COMPLIANCE
The proposed project is consistent with Transportation PrOgram 17
-make operational intersection improvements to ease traffic flow
on major streets·, and program IB -make effective use of traffic
carrying ability of Palo Alto's network of ~ajor streets·.
~arry Road/Arboretum Road
Intersection Improve~ents
7/20/90
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The proposed improvements were reviewed by the Palo Alto Bicycle
Advisory Committee (PABAC) and ~eet with their approval. PABAC
would l bowever l like Stan!ord to improve the section of Arboretum
between Pal_ Drive and Quarry R04d~ That issue is nGt related to
the .itigation agreement ar~1 thus. is not a part of this project~
ItlvJ ROtlHENTAL ASSEJ5-<;KE.::rl
An initial study recommendinq a Negative Declaration has been
completed and is included as Attachment E~
RECQt{t(ENPATION
Staff recommends that the Pla~~inq Commission find the project is
consistent yith the Comprehensive Plan and that it will not have
a siqnificant adverse environmental impact l and recommend ~pproval
of the project.
Respectfully submitted l
MAlIVIlf L. OVERWAY
Chief Transportation Official
Attachments: A. Exbibit I,
B. EXhibit ~,
C. Exhibit 3,
D. Exbibit ., EXisting
Proposed
~d.f.f~y
KENNETH R. SCHREIBER
Director of Planning and
Community Environment
ConcUtions
Project
Future Poten~ial Project
comparison Perspective
E. Environmental Assessment -Negative Declaration
cc: stanford ~nlverslty (3ulia Fremon l Michael McKniqht l
Andrew Doty. Rosemary Hc1~rews)
city of Menlo Park
sand Hill corridor Distribution List
Quarry ~oad/Arboretum Road
Intersection Improvements
'J~O/90
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QUARRY ROAD
(A) EXISTING I. 40' ~I
'Of"~
(8) PHASE I
IOurrent Project]
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(C) PHASE II
IPote_nllel
I'uturo Project]
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Environmental Document. -City of Palo Alto
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Project DescriptIoq/Tltle: Quarry RoaafAxboretum 89.4 lntc[schtion
Improvn enu
Locatioq/Address: QuarT! ~oad/Arboretum Road Ibtersection
Sponsoring Aqency/Applicant: ~t.nfQr~ UnIversIty
Address and Telephone of Applicant:
BSS Serra SCreet. 2nd Floor, Stanford. CA
Michael Kuntz. FacilitIes ProTect ~AnagE~~nt,
9430~-6114: <'15) 725-3400,
Appllca ti on tor: ;o;:;:;;SC't"T".;;."t;;:;;l.;mff;;T'i0-:\':1em"Z.n=-,t-:::c.-=:==-=.",:-:-:_~"",,,, ... ;:::;:,,,,,,,,,,,-;=,,,"",,-_
(e.q ..... zonirl9 cha.nqe~ subdl.visl.on of property. architectural revie"", use
pen>it] -
Zoning at Project Location: Fee Receipt NO.:~~~ __ _
NOTICE OF DETERMINATION
eased upon review of the project ~iles, the underslgnec member of the Plan
ning Department has concluded:
Iii Heqatlve Declaration: ~hQ project bas no significant environmental im-
pact ~ No Environmental Impact Report 1s requlrea. The .reasons for a:'·
Negative Declaration are: ~.
See .attached hlit!&! Study i,
! ,
I_I The project ~ay have a Significant envirenmental impact. An Environ-.
mental Impact Report yill be prepared~ ~
Planning Department OfficIal, __ ~£~~~~~A;~~r~c.~~~~~~~"'~· ______________________ _
PIannin'3 Director: }{:"'~ 5,;../.,<.Je.
The project has been approved.
The project has been denied.
Revised 8-1-19
Date:
Date:
File No.: 90 -EIA-31
90-UA.-33
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ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUM£NTS -PALO AlT~ UA·!.
I~ITIAl STUOyl,!
J. ,project Titl.e/Addreu: Quarn IOilMArboretum 'load Intersection Improv~ments
II. Project DEscrlptfon: 'Widening of eastbound Quarn...!Q~ __ ~ __ 'West of
Arbot~tum Read to accommodate an excl~sive ri&bt-tgt~ lane, 8
tbrougb lane, and a left-tutu lane t and restriping cf northbound
Arbg __ J;_~j:um Read to p..r,~v1d'e for tbrel! lanes of tr.ill..is..... __ tn_tlodin...&..-. __
related changes to traffie signal and striping and signing.
Ill. Environmental Setting: SUST ~rban intersEction located close to
the Stanford 5hopping Center.
1'. Environmental Impact Checklist {Explanation ~f all ~yes· .nswers are in
Section 'l
J. ~irt~. Will l~e proposal r!s~lt im:
•• L'nstable euth conditions or changES
fa geologic 5~bstructure5?
b. 01sr~ptions. displacement5~ compaction
D~ overcoveri~g of tbe soil? L
<-Change in topograpny cr ground surr~e
relief features?
d. The destructfoD, covering or modifica-
tion of iny ~~f~~e geologic or physical
features?
•• Any increase II wind or water erosion
Df soils, either Qn Dr off the site?
L Exposure of people or property to
gealogfc ~izard5 suc~ is earth~uake5.
landslides, ~udslldes, ground failure~
Dr st~1liT ~alard5? _1-
9· Changes iD 5iltation. depOSition, or
erOSlCD wh;c~ may modify the channel
of I river or the bed of a bay or i~let?
IAcfapted from Ap~endil 1, Californh GtJid'elines fo,r ImpTer.ler:ltitfcn of
CEQA. Oetember I~, 1976.
2Upda!ed May. 1982; June, 19B1
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I. Air. Will t~e propos.l res.lt Io:
I. Substantia' Ifr emfssfons Dr deterf~ri
tfon of imbfent air qual it,?
~. The creitlon of objectIon.bl_ ordors?
c. Alteration of air ~owementl ~~isture
temperit~re. or Iny change fa climate,
_Ither locally or reg'on.11
). Vater. ~111 the ~rDposal rEsatt fA:
a. C~anges 11 ~bsorption rates. drainage -1L
patterns, or the rate and amount of
surface ~ater runoff?
b~ Alterations to the course or flow of
flood 'Waters?
c. Cis.cllarge hte surface ~aters .. Dr im an)'
alt~ritfon of surface water Quality,
fDcludi~9 but ~ot limited to tempErature.
dissolved Dxygen Dr turbidity?
d. Alterat~o~ of the direction of rate of
now of ground 'Water-s?
e. h:PQstlre of people Dr propert.1 to 'Water
relite~ bazards such as flooding Dr
tidal vaves?
f~ C~ange 1m the quantit1 of ground ~aters,
either through direct additions or wiU,
drawals. or t~rough fmterceptions of an
iq~ifer by ,uts or excavations?
4. 'I.nt life. W111 the propos.l result ;.:
UMMel(
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i. Change fa \'he diversil,J of species, Dr J
number of any specl.s of pl.nts (Includ-
ing trees. shrubs, grass, crops. ~lcro-
flor~ and aquatic plants)?
~. Re~uction of the numbers of any unique.
rire or endangered s~ecfes of pTants?
c. htroduction of flew species of plants
into an area, or fa a barrier lo the
nor~al replenishment Df elisting s~ecies?
d. Redutlion ia acreage of any a9ric~ltural
(rop?
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S. AnImal life. Will t~e proposal result fl:
I. Ckange fD the diwer5ll1 of species, or
~f any species of animals lbirds~ lan~
animals including reptiles, fisb and
shel1fis~. benthfc orga~isms, f~se'ts or
l11crofaufla)?
b. Reduction elf t1Ie numbers of Iny unique"
rare or endangered s~ecfes of anlmals?
c_ Introduction of ~E~ species ~f animals
f~to an area, or resg1t in I barrfer tB
the ~;graticn or movement of animals?
d. DeteriDration ttl ex~st\l'Ig fhll tiT 'Wild
life i.bih\?
6. Noise. Will the proposal res~lt f~;
J. Increases 1~ Existing noise levels?
b. [xposure of peo~le to severe roofs!
levels?
1. lignt and G1.re. Will the proposal produce
new lfg~t glare?
8. land Us •. Will the proposal r05,1t I ••
sub~tantfal alteration of t~e present or
Jlhnned land US! of an area?
9. [rLergY(Natural Resources. Will the proposal
resiiTf-l m:
a. Use af substantial amounts of fuel or
energy?
b~ Substantial Sncrease it demand upon
e~lstf~g sources of energy, or require
t~e deve1Dpment of ~ew sources or
energy?
c~ Increase iD the rate of ~se cf any
natural resources?
d. Substantial depletion of any nonrene~
able natural resource?
]0. ~_t~_L~.t ____ ~pseL Oaes the proposal lnvohe a
rlsk of an e~plosicn or the release of
hazardous substances (including. but not
limited lo. cil. ~est;cides, ~hemicals or
radiation) ia the event of a~ accident or
upset?
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Jl. POpl.l')\~On/HO\l5;r,q_
I. Vil1 the proposal alter the 10(ation.
distribution, density, or ~ro~t~ rite
of the human population of an arel?
b_ ~ill t~e propos,l effect exlstfn9
housing. Dr create a demand for addi
tional floustng?
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12. Transpo,rtation/C;:rcuhUon.
restlll t fm:
Will the proposal
1. Generation of substantial additional
yebic~llr movement?
b~ Effects on !Xisting ~arkin51 facilities.
or demand for new parking?
c_ Alteratfons to present patterAs of
circ~lation or mQveme~t of people and!
or 90ocfs~
d. Increase in traffic hazar~s to m~tor
~ebitles. bicyclists or pedestrians?
13. Public Ser~ices. Will the pro~osa1 t.a~e an
effect UP0rl. or result il:l a need fo·r new-or
iltered 90vern~ntal services i~ any of the
f()110w-1Dg areas:
I. fire prDtect~on?
b. Police protection?
(. Sdool.1
d. 'irks or other recreitfonal facilities?
e. ~Girltenance cf pyblic facilities.
fncl~ding roads?
f. Other governmental services?
14. ~tilities. ~ill t~e proposal res~lt im a need
for ne~ systems. or substantial alterations to the
f01lo.1n9 utIlities;
I. Power or ~atural gas?
b. Communications systems?
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c. Water?
d. Sewer or septic hnk?
e. ;StOnll water dralnit:ge1
f. Solid waste .nd disposal?,
~u:man HealU~ Will the proposal result
a~ . treat ion (If any health flaztrd or
poteeti.l ~eilt~ hazard (excludiog
~ental health}!
in:
b. [xpo"re of people to potential ~ealtb
!lazards?
16. Aesthetits. \o'ill the propo •• l res.lt II the
obstruclffOn of any scenfc r;sta or view
ope~ to t~e public. or vll1 the proposal
re5~lt in the creitfc~ of an aesthetic.l1}
i offensive site oper. to p~blfc view?
n~ Recreation. \,il1 tfle prop(lsa.l resalt fa an
impact upon t~e qualft, cr quantitJ of exist·
~' jog recreati~nal opportunities?
18. CultY!'",l Resources.
(IMMel(
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a. Wi11 the proposal result io the alter.·
lion of/or tne destruction of a
prebistoric or \istoric arc~aeQl~gical
site?
b. Will t~e proposal res~lt fa adverse
p~Jsical or aesthet;c effects to a
prehfstoric or ~l!tori' building.
structur~;1 or object?
c. D~es t~e proposal ~ave t~e potential
t~ causes I pbyslcal c~ange which ~~uld
affect unique c~lturll walues?
d. Will the ~roposal restrict existing
religious ~r sacred ~ses wit.in the
potent ill impact aTea?
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ns MAYBE NO
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J9. Mandatory Findings of Sign1 (feaneE'. YES
a. ~. the project ha,e the ~ot.ntl.l to
d~ride t~e qual it, of the en~lron~nt,
substanthlly reduce the hbitat of •
f's~ er ~;ldlife specfes, cause I fisb
or wildlife popul.tlon lo drop belo~
self-s.st.lll,g l.,els, threat •• to
elfmfnatt a Flant or animal community.
red~ce the number of restrict the ringe
of a rare or endangered ,1ant or animal or
elfmf~ate important examples of the major
periods Clf (all ftrlia li1$tor.l' or preflistory?
b. Ooes the project ha,e the polential to
ac~ieve short-term, to the disadvantage
of long-term, environmental goats. {A
sho~t-term im~act on the envIronment is
one whfc\ occ~rs I! I r~1ltfvel1 brief,
defi.iti~e period gf time ~hile long-term
fmpacts ~il1 endure welt into the fwture.]
Co [)oes the preject have impacts whidl are
indiyiduall, limited. but cumulativel,
cDns;derable~ (A project r.ay impact CD
tWD or more separite resou~,es ~here t~e
impitt OD eac~ resource is relativel,
small. but where t~e effect of the t~tal
of Ulose impacts on tfle environment is
signiffcant.)
d~ Does the project bave environmental
effects whic\ will cause substanthl
adverse effects OD ~uman beings. either
directlJ or indirectl,?
Y. (xplanatioc of ·yes-answers h environmental <:heckHst.
See .ttached.
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Init.ial study Attachment
Quarry Road/Arboretum Road
Intersection Improvements
) tb. f) Earth~ The proposed .idening of QUarry Road 4' to
accommodJ.te lin exclusive riqht-turn lane4' II through lane and a
left-turn le.ne, will result in relocation of existing side\ll'alk area
and planti"9 strip, and t:.he aeidition of 650'0 square .feet of paved
area. These improvements to t.he existing intersection -will not
have ill significant impact on area soils.
The project site is located in a seismic area of moderate risk and
is subject to strong ground shaking in the event of an earthqua~e.
The project will not result in increased exposure to seismic risks,
a~ no new structures are proposed~
3 (al Water.. An increase in the amou·nt. of impervious surface
at the i,ntersection (6S00 square feet) will have a sl ight impact
on area drainage. However~ adequate storm drainage is included in
the project.
, (al Pla:nt Life. The widening of Q"olarry R~d .. ill require removal
of 13 oak "trees on Quarry Road.
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Oak
oak
Oak
Oak
Oak
oak
Tree
Trees
Tree
Trees
Trees
Trees
The City 1 s Arbor-1st has concluded
in good condition and 'Would
t.ransplanting~
tha~ most of these trees are not
not. be expected to survive
'While the loss of these "t.rees is not a significant impact, an
awropriate mitigation meaSure would be to plant new trees to
replace the trees that will be lost. The planting strip of the
Phase 1 project~ however~ is not a suitable location for new trees
due to: (1) the presence of an existing large concrete utility
duct bank carrying high voltage electrical and communication lines
,dthin 30 incbes of the surtace, and (2) the probable temporary
nature of the Phase I project which .. ould rlecessitate their
eventual removal~ Orougbt tolerant shrubs are to be placed in the
Phase J planting strip.
Hew replacement trees could be planted 'Within the anticipated
location of the planting strip for the Phase II project. Ne~ trees
couleS be planted in this location tor a distance equal to the
length of the Phase I project or along the entire length of the
Phase II project from Arboretum Road to Welch Road.
12 Cel TransQQ..rtaticn/Circul2!tion. As mitigations and conditions
of approval of the Stanford Medical School Office Bl,Ji..1..<:ii .. ri9.Project"
dated May 211 19B5~ and the New Children's Hospital project, dated
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Hay 29. ~9S1. St~nford agreed to =onitor a nu~r of intersections
lncluding the Qil1arry Road/Aroor."etum Roac1 intersectio·n and make
certain improvements it any of the 1nte~sections exceed Level of
SerVic~ (LOS) -0". The intersection of Quarry ~oad and Arboretum
Road has exceeded LOS -D-, thus triggering the need for
improvements~ At this intersection. the agreement requires
Stanford to 'Widen Quarry Road in the eastbound directicn to
accommodate an exclusive right-turn lane. II: through lane" and a
left-turn lane and restripe ~estbound Arboretum Read to provide an
exclusive left lane ... through lane" and t.hrough/right-turn lane ..
with related signal modifications.
In accordance ..... i th the terms and conditions of the agree~ent
between the City and Stanford .. Stanford has submit.ted imp'rovement
plans. These plans are consistent .... ith the agreement except
Arboretum Road vill be striped with an exclusive left-turn lane~
a through and left lane and a through and right lane. This lane
striping _Change is due to the fact that during the ti"tOrning peak
period the left turning traffic is 9reater than the through
t.raffic" and in the noon peak the left .and through volu:r:nes are
approlCimately the same. Tbe proposed striping on Arboretum .. rather
than the one included in the agreement" yields a better level of
service during noon and AM peak periods and approximately the sate
level o£ service curing the PM peak period as shown belo~.
ne Geg. e rics S-n n LOS LOS-PM
EXIST J. .{ II ~ 0_90 0_ BO 0.S7
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-.J ~rl ~ AGREEHENT -O_B~ 0.89 0.71
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-J -ill ~ PROPOSED -0.77 0_ 70 0_70 --.. lir ~
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The Quarry/Arboretum intersection is operating vithin a level of
!Service range D - E during the peak periods~ The propcse:d
ilnproverne7lts 'Will improve the intersectio·n to cperate at 1.05 c.
Note: This table is prepared_ based en 19tn available counts fc,r
cot-.parison purposes to sh.o'J that the proposed lane 9€or:l.etrics
are better than those included in the Agreeqment.
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currently. the left-turn signal for Quarry Road movements operates
in a protected/permissive mode r i.e. an advance green left arrov
Is only displayed tor the ~estbound traffic allowing a protected
IlOvement. Provision bf a left-turn pock.et in the eastbound
direction will alloW' changes to the traffic sign.al operation
whereby wes~bound as well as eastbound drivers will have a left
turn arrow, th,us improving the safety of the intersection (north
and southbound movements are already split and left turns can be
made in a protected mode).
The proposed addition of intersection approach lanes viiI modify
existing circulation patterns. These changes would, b01Jeverjl
improve the level of service and relieve congestion. Bicyclist
safety is also enhanced by provision of a 12 foot wide lane next
to the exclusive right-turn lane on Quarry Road. The improvement
plans were reviewed by the Palo Alto Bicycle Advisory committee
(PABAC) and meet their approvaL PABAC would, however jI lik.e
stanford to improve the section of Arboretum between Palm Drive and
Qua rry Road.
The above improvements are considered to be minimal improvements
(Phase I) as: mentioned abovejl are triggered as ~ result of the
<l1ta:<ry/'A"rboret:Ul. intersection exceeding LOS D.
rsection in close vicinity of tbe subject intersection
intersection which stanford has been monitoring.
ch intersection exceeds LOS DjI Stanford 'Would be
provide an exclusive left-turn lane from welch to
widen ~arry Road from Welch Road to Arboretum Road~
prepared schematic plans for this ultimate improvement
to assure that conflicts bet'Ween Phase I and II could
miin:;'.i.""I. AccordinqlYr the neW' trees are located in the
planting strip and not in the Phase I planting strip. The
II plans include on street bike lanes and two through lanes
directionjl turn lanes at the intersections,. a five foot
median in the street and a siQe~alk and a planting strip on
sides.
Installation and maintenance of the ~~>d~rt~:;;~i.~~;:-~ementsjl will increase both immediate and
financial expenditures by the city. These increased
form only a minor portion of current costs of approved
',~~~i~t!:~,p:<ov.:m"n't Programs and city maintenance responsibil ities ..
~t have a significant impact on the City budget.
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OE/Ashok 1
b:eiaqIJdr2
6/11/90
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