HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-05-23 Rail Agenda PacketRAIL COMMITTEE
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, May 23, 2023
Community Meeting Room & Hybrid
2:00 PM
Rail Committee meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by
teleconference or in person. To maximize public safety while still maintaining transparency and
public access, members of the public can choose to participate from home or attend in person.
Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end
of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending in person. The meeting will be
broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto,
and streamed to Midpen Media Center https://midpenmedia.org.
VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/86388142528)
Meeting ID: 863 8814 2528 Phone: 1(669)900‐6833
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an
amount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes
after the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance to
city.council@CityofPaloAlto.org 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.
PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only
by email to city.clerk@CityofPaloAlto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received,
the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strong
cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are not
accepted.
CALL TO ORDER
PUBLIC COMMENT
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda.
VERBAL UPDATE ON INTERAGENCY ACTIVITIES
A.Caltrain
B.VTA
C.City Staff
ACTION ITEMS
1.Review the Conceptual Plan for Quiet Zone implementation at Palo Alto Avenue/Alma
Street and Recommend to the City Council for Approval
2.Approve the refined conceptual plans for the Partial Underpass Alternative at Churchill
Avenue and the Underpass Alternatives at Meadow Drive and Charleston Road.
FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS
Members of the public may not speak to the item(s)
ADJOURNMENT
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email,
teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to city.council@cityofpaloalto.org.
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 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 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: 863‐8814‐2528 Phone: 1‐669‐900‐6833
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public
programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with
disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary
aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at
(650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or
accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or
service.
RAIL COMMITTEERegular MeetingTuesday, May 23, 2023Community Meeting Room & Hybrid2:00 PMRail Committee meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend byteleconference or in person. To maximize public safety while still maintaining transparency andpublic access, members of the public can choose to participate from home or attend in person.Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the endof the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending in person. The meeting will bebroadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, 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/86388142528)Meeting ID: 863 8814 2528 Phone: 1(669)900‐6833PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or anamount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutesafter the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance tocity.council@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Council and available for inspectionon the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in yoursubject line.
PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only
by email to city.clerk@CityofPaloAlto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received,
the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strong
cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are not
accepted.
CALL TO ORDER
PUBLIC COMMENT
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda.
VERBAL UPDATE ON INTERAGENCY ACTIVITIES
A.Caltrain
B.VTA
C.City Staff
ACTION ITEMS
1.Review the Conceptual Plan for Quiet Zone implementation at Palo Alto Avenue/Alma
Street and Recommend to the City Council for Approval
2.Approve the refined conceptual plans for the Partial Underpass Alternative at Churchill
Avenue and the Underpass Alternatives at Meadow Drive and Charleston Road.
FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS
Members of the public may not speak to the item(s)
ADJOURNMENT
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email,
teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to city.council@cityofpaloalto.org.
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 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 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: 863‐8814‐2528 Phone: 1‐669‐900‐6833
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public
programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with
disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary
aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at
(650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or
accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or
service.
RAIL COMMITTEERegular MeetingTuesday, May 23, 2023Community Meeting Room & Hybrid2:00 PMRail Committee meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend byteleconference or in person. To maximize public safety while still maintaining transparency andpublic access, members of the public can choose to participate from home or attend in person.Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the endof the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending in person. The meeting will bebroadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, 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/86388142528)Meeting ID: 863 8814 2528 Phone: 1(669)900‐6833PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or anamount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutesafter the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance tocity.council@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Council and available for inspectionon the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in yoursubject line.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to city.clerk@CityofPaloAlto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received,the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strongcybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are notaccepted.CALL TO ORDERPUBLIC COMMENT Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. VERBAL UPDATE ON INTERAGENCY ACTIVITIESA.CaltrainB.VTAC.City StaffACTION ITEMS1.Review the Conceptual Plan for Quiet Zone implementation at Palo Alto Avenue/AlmaStreet and Recommend to the City Council for Approval2.Approve the refined conceptual plans for the Partial Underpass Alternative at ChurchillAvenue and the Underpass Alternatives at Meadow Drive and Charleston Road.FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDASMembers of the public may not speak to the item(s)
ADJOURNMENT
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email,
teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to city.council@cityofpaloalto.org.
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 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 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: 863‐8814‐2528 Phone: 1‐669‐900‐6833
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public
programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with
disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary
aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at
(650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or
accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or
service.
Item No. 1.Page 1 of 4
Rail Committee
Staff Report
From: Philip Kamhi, Chief Transportation Official
Report Type: ACTION ITEMS
Meeting Date: May 17, 2023
Report #: 2304-1285
TITLE
Review the Conceptual Plan for Quiet Zone Implementation at Palo Alto Avenue/Alma Street
and Recommend to the City Council for Approval
RECOMMENDATION
Review the Conceptual Plan for Quiet Zone implementation at Palo Alto Avenue/Alma Street
and recommend to the City Council for Approval
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Office of Transportation is currently working on the Quiet Zone (QZ) study at Palo Alto
Avenue in collaboration with City of Menlo Park. Based on the study, the project consultant has
prepared the conceptual plans for improvements that will be necessary to implement the quiet
zone at this crossing. A study session was conducted with Planning and Transportation
Commission (PTC) and the Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee (PABAC) before seeking
Rail Committee’s review. The project received positive consideration and endorsements from
these committees. Therefore, the staff seeks Rail Committee review and approval for
recommendation to the City Council.
BACKGROUND
The City of Palo Alto (City) has received several requests for consideration of Quiet Zone at
crossings across Caltrain Corridor. As the first phase of this project, the City of Menlo Park, in
coordination with the City of Palo Alto, is conducting a QZ study that includes consideration of a
quiet zone at the Palo Alto Avenue/Alma Street crossing. Kimley Horn and Associates was
selected as consultant to perform this study. The procurement process was led by the City of
Menlo Park consistent with its policies and practices. A similar study at other crossings within
Palo Alto will be performed as a second phase of this project.
Item 1
Staff Report
Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 4 of 60
Item No. 1.Page 2 of 4
DISCUSSION
Federal regulation requires that locomotive horns begin sounding 15–20 seconds before
entering public rail grade crossings, no more than one-quarter mile in advance. These horns
produce sounds from 96 to 110 decibels for at-grade crossings. The sound noise affects the
quality of life of the Palo Alto residents in the vicinity of the railroad crossings and causes
significant noise pollution.
Local agencies, however, can implement Quiet Zones where railroads have been directed to
cease the routine of sounding their horns when approaching public highway-rail grade
crossings. Train horns may still be used in emergency situations or to comply with other Federal
regulations or railroad operating rules. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Title 49
regulations provide opportunity for localities nationwide to mitigate the effects of train horn
noise by establishing Quiet Zones. The regulations require a quiet zone study to review the
Quiet Zone Risk Index (QZRI) qualifying for quiet zone or Supplemental Safety Measures (SSM)
at each crossing. Based on the study, the crossings need to be upgraded to be safer without
horns than they are in the current state with horns before proceeding with quiet zones.
In early 2022, City of Menlo Park issued a Request for Proposals to conduct Quiet Zone study
for four at-grade crossings in Menlo Park. Due to close proximity of the Palo Alto Avenue/Alma
Street crossing, City of Palo Alto staff collaborated with City of Menlo Park to include this
crossing in the study. The procurement process was led by the City of Menlo Park consistent
with its policies and practices. However, staff from both cities worked towards the selection of
the Consultant. Kimley Horn and Associates (Consultant) was the selected consultant to
perform this study.
Consultant performed the crossing analysis based on the FRA and California Public Utilities
Commission (CPUC) requirements and prepared preliminary conceptual plans for
improvements at these crossings to meet QZ requirements. A field diagnostic meeting was held
amongst a team of consultant staff, staff from the cities of Palo Alto and Menlo Park, CPUC,
Caltrain, and FRA to review the existing conditions at the crossing and to seek feedback and
concurrence in developing recommendations for improvements to implement the Quiet Zone.
The consultant therefore developed conceptual plans consistent with FRA and CPUC
requirements. The improvements for Palo Alto Avenue/Alma Street primarily recommend for
modifications to median islands on both sides of the railroad tracks. These improvements
include reconstruction to have median islands with eight (8) inch curb and extension of median
islands to meet regulatory standards for quiet zones. A community outreach meeting was held
on March 23, 2023. Staff received positive feedback and community desire to expedite
implementation of quiet zone in Palo Alto.
Item 1
Staff Report
Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 5 of 60
Item No. 1.Page 3 of 4
On April 26, 2023, a Study session 1 (Staff Report ID 2303-1201) with Planning and
Transportation Commission was held to review proposed project recommendations and
seeking feedback for implementing quiet zone at Palo Alto Avenue/Alma Street Crossing. In
addition, on May 2, 2023, a study session seeking comments and feedback was also conducted
with Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee. At both study sessions, staff received positive
consideration for implementing quiet zones. Therefore, staff seeks Rail Committee review the
Conceptual Plan for Quiet Zone implementation at Palo Alto Avenue/Alma Street and
recommend to the City Council for approval.
Next Steps
Upon approval of the project and concept plans by the City Council, the City will engage a
consultant to support the design and help obtain the necessary permits and approvals from
Caltrain and CPUC to modify the At-Grade Railroad Crossing. Following this, the project will bid
for construction to install the required improvements. The final step involves City formally
requesting the Federal Rail Administration to establish a quiet zone at this crossing.
The estimated cost for the design and construction of the improvements outlined in the
concept is between $200,000 and $250,000. It is expected that implementation of the quiet
zone will take approximately 20-24 months, assuming the City is able to secure timely approvals
from the relevant agencies and funding availability. However, if external funding or grants are
involved, additional coordination and approvals will be required for grant-related requirements,
and the timeline will depend on the funding requirements and processing involved.
RESOURCE IMPACT
This work will be incorporated into one of the City’s existing transportation capital projects; the
exact one is to be determined. Staff will seek funding from any applicable Federal, State,
Regional funding concurrently to the approval process. However, if such funding is unavailable
due to size and timings of the project, staff will seek Measure B LSR funds or alternatively
absorb the costs within the existing capital project.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The proposed modifications are minor upgrades to an existing street right-of-way and would
not result in any new impacts on the existing environment. This project is considered as a
minor alteration to the existing street system, and therefore categorically exempt (Class 1
Exemption, Section 15301) from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA).
1https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=11277
Item 1
Staff Report
Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 6 of 60
Item No. 1.Page 4 of 4
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
A Community Meeting was held on March 23, 2023, to seek feedback and comments. In addition,
a study session at Planning and Transportation Committee was conducted on April 26, 2023, to
solicit feedback and comments. Staff also presented the project at the Pedestrian and Bike
Advisory Committee Rail Committee on May 2, 2023, and plans to present to City School
Transportation Safety Committee for feedback before seeking Rail Committee’s review. Also, Rail
Committee meetings are open to the public and therefore provide the community with
opportunities to provide comments to the rail committee and the City.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Conceptual Improvement Plan for Palo Alto Avenue/Alma Street
APPROVED BY:
Philip Kamhi, Chief Transportation Official
Report #: 2304-1285
Item 1
Staff Report
Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 7 of 60
PALO ALTO AVE AT-GRADE CROSSING
Item 1
Attachment A - Conceptual
Improvement Plan for Palo Alto
Avenue-Alma Street
Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 8 of 60
Item No. 2.Page 1 of 9
1
7
1
7
Rail Committee
Staff Report
From: Philip Kamhi, Chief Transportation Official
Report Type: ACTION ITEMS
Meeting Date: May 17, 2023
Report #: 2302-0973
TITLE
Approve the refined conceptual plans for the Partial Underpass Alternative at Churchill Avenue and
the Underpass Alternatives at Meadow Drive and Charleston Road.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On October 19, 2022, and November 18, 2022, Rail Committee study sessions were conducted to
review the various elements under consideration for the refinement of the conceptual plans for
the Partial Underpass Alternative at Churchill Avenue and the Underpass Alternatives at Meadow
Drive and Charleston Road. Based on the discussion, the Consultant updated the conceptual plans.
Staff is seeking Rail Committee review and approval of the refined conceptual plans.
BACKGROUND
On May 23, 2022, City Council authorized staff to seek additional feedback from the key
stakeholders for the revisions of the Partial Underpass Alternative at Churchill Avenue and
Underpass Alternatives at Meadow Drive and Charleston Road. City Staff and the consultant
reached out to the Pedestrian and Bike Advisory Committee (PABAC), Palo Alto Unified School
District (PAUSD), Stanford, City School Transportation Safety Committee (CSTSC), and members
from the community who were involved in developing the conceptual design of these partial
underpass alternatives for their feedback and comments for refinement to the conceptual
plans.
Staff compiled all the comments received from these stakeholders and developed a master list of
all comments. These comments were then categorized into four elements: Bicycle and Pedestrian,
Roadway, Structures, and Rail. The various elements related to these facilities were discussed
during Rail Committee study sessions on October 19, 2022 (CMR 14813) 1 and November 18, 2022
(CMR 14904)2.
1 CMR 14813 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/agendas-minutes-reports/agendas-minutes/rail-
committee/2022/20221019/20221019prailr-linked.pdf
2 CMR 14904 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/agendas-minutes-reports/agendas-minutes/rail-
committee/2022/20221118/20221118prailsm-final.pdf
Item 2
Staff Report
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 9 of 60
Item No. 2.Page 2 of 9
1
7
1
7
DISCUSSION
Based on the study session review, the following elements were refined in the Conceptual Plans
of the Partial Underpass at Churchill Avenue and Underpass Alternatives at Meadow Drive and
Charleston Road.
Refinements to Conceptual Plans
Bike and Pedestrian Facilities:
Width & Pathway Configuration:
The width of the bicycle and pedestrian ramps is proposed to be increased from 10 feet
to 12 feet, if possible, without significantly affecting the right of way. The plans have been
updated to reflect the wider pathways. The lane widths on Kellogg Avenue have also been
increased to accommodate emergency vehicles. The Palo Alto Fire Department concurred
with a reduction of up to 4 feet of the California Fire Code requirement of 20 feet, allowing
for a 16-foot roadway width on Kellogg Avenue, which will be achieved by removing the
landscaping strip between the roadway and sidewalk. It will result in reduced frontage
landscaping for property owners and will likely also need undergrounding of existing
utilities. The proposed improvements are shown in the Plan View of Kellogg Avenue and
Rendering in Figures 1 and 2 below. Figure 3 shows a cross-section view and provides
dimensions. Similar improvements can be implemented at Seale Avenue if Peers Park is
chosen as the preferred location for the ped/bike undercrossing.
Figure 1: Plan View of Kellogg Avenue
Item 2
Staff Report
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 10 of 60
Item No. 2.Page 3 of 9
1
7
1
7
Figure 2: Rendering of Kellogg Avenue (looking west)
Figure 3: Cross-section View at Kellogg Avenue
Widening pathways at other locations has implications to the right-of-way. For Charleston
Avenue crossings, the widening of the bicycle and pedestrian pathway on the south sides
from 10 feet to 12 feet will require additional right-of-way from the fronting properties; as
such, the project (edge of the pathway) will be two (2) feet closer to the homes.
Item 2
Staff Report
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 11 of 60
Item No. 2.Page 4 of 9
1
7
1
7
Figure 4: Rendering of Charleston Avenue looking east)
Design Speed, Design Bicycle, Turning Radius, Sight Distance:
The feedback about the design bicycle and design speed was considered in the refinement
of plans. To improve the maneuvering ability and line of sight of bicyclists at each location,
the turning radius was adjusted to accommodate standard bicycles, tandem bikes, and
bike trailers. The modification is depicted in the following rendering, which shows the
improved turning movements at Kellogg Avenue undercrossing (Figure 5) and Meadow
Drive pedestrian bridges (Figure 6).
Item 2
Staff Report
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 12 of 60
Item No. 2.Page 5 of 9
1
7
1
7
Figure 5: Rendering of the Kellogg Avenue Tunnel at Embarcadero Bike Trail.
Figure 6: Meadow Drive: Pedestrian Bridges
Item 2
Staff Report
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 13 of 60
Item No. 2.Page 6 of 9
1
7
1
7
Bicycle Pedestrian Pathway on each side (Meadow and Charleston Underpass
Alternative):
The staff and consultant evaluated the impact of adding bicycle and pedestrian pathways
on both sides of the underpass alternative at the Meadow Drive and Charleston Road
crossings. The underpass alternative is designed with a roadway grade of 10-12% and a
pathway grade of 5%. Due to the different grades of these facilities, there will be elevation
differential between the two structures. Therefore, accommodating a separated bicycle
and pedestrian pathway on both sides would result in prohibiting additional traffic
movements at these crossings.
At Meadow Drive, all turning movements from and to Alma Street will become physically
prohibitive, thereby allowing only through movements on Meadow Drive. At Charleston
Road, the eastbound right turn movement onto southbound Alma Street would be
prohibited. This results in additional traffic entering the roundabout at Charleston
Avenue, just west of Mumford Place.
The traffic consultant’s review of the turning movement volumes indicates that these
prohibited movements would cause vehicles that previously used these turning
movements to be rerouted through the Alma Street and Charleston Road intersection to
utilize the roundabout on Charleston Road between Wright Place and Mumford Place.
Therefore, causing diversion and increased traffic on to the remaining movements at the
Charleston crossing. Based on this simulation analysis, this new alternative is projected to
cause significant congestion and queue build-up at the Alma Street and Charleston Road
intersection, resulting in poor traffic circulation.
Based on the simulation analysis, all intersections on Charleston Avenue are expected to
operate at LOS F during both the AM and PM peak hours under both existing and year
2030 conditions with the new underpass alternative. During both the AM and PM peak
hours, queues for the westbound right-turn movement from Charleston Road onto Alma
Street would extend back into the roundabout. Queues from the roundabout would
extend along westbound and eastbound Charleston Road and onto the northbound right-
turn lane on Alma Street. Queues for the southbound left-turn movement on Alma Street
would extend back toward E. Meadow Drive during both peak hours. (Attachment J,
Traffic Analysis).
Kellogg Ave vs Seale & Bike lane configuration on the pathway (Churchill Avenue):
The consultant has performed an initial review at Seale Avenue to assess the feasibility of
a bicycle and pedestrian undercrossing. A preliminary conceptual plan showing the
conceptual alignment is developed (Figure 8). The concept utilizes space available in Peers
Park to daylight the undercrossing on the west side of the railroad. On the east side, a
configuration will be similar to the currently proposed concept at Kellogg Avenue (Figure
7).
The merits of different locations, including Kellogg Avenue and Seale Avenue, will be
considered along with community feedback as part of the Bicycle and Pedestrian
Transportation Plan.
Item 2
Staff Report
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 6 Packet Pg. 14 of 60
Item No. 2.Page 7 of 9
1
7
1
7
Figure 7: Bike Lane Configuration at Kellogg Avenue
Figure 8: Proposed Bike lane configuration at Seale Avenue
Item 2
Staff Report
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 7 Packet Pg. 15 of 60
Item No. 2.Page 8 of 12
Roadway Facilities – Refinements to Conceptual Plans
Roundabout for Charleston Underpass Alternative only:
The Roundabout will be reviewed further for its size during the preliminary
engineering design phase and development of environmental documents. In
addition, the project goal is to construct the smallest footprint that meets the design
guidelines while accommodating traffic movements. The traffic engineering review
through simulation indicates that the two-lane roundabout will operate adequately
to accommodate the traffic movements. A 150-foot weaving area will be provided
before entering the roundabout in the eastbound direction to allow for lane
assignment of turning vehicles.
A bike lane extension was also reviewed to extend to the bicycle and pedestrian
path from its current termini at Mumford Place to the intersection of Carlson Court
(Figure 9). Due to right of way constraints, the bicycle and pedestrian path width
will be narrowed from 20 feet on the west side of the roundabout to a twelve (12)
foot Class I facility from the east side of the roundabout to Carlson Court. This
extension of the Pedestrian and Bicycle Path may also require undergrounding of
existing utilities
The initial review indicates that the right-of-way constraints will result in the
elimination of the existing landscaping in this segment to provide a shared Class I
bicycle and pedestrian path. A detailed review will need to be performed during the
preliminary engineering design to propose alternative landscaping and to review
the roadway cross-section in this segment.
Figure 9: Charleston Road looking west; showing a 2-way bike path on the north side of
the roundabout.
Item 2
Staff Report
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 16 of 60
Item No. 2.Page 9 of 12
Buffer along the Alma Street Frontage:
In previous study sessions, the members of the Rail Committee expressed their
concerns regarding the contiguous sidewalk along Alma Street and emphasized the
need for a buffer between the sidewalk and curb to create a safer environment for
pedestrians. The plans for Churchill Avenue and Charleston Road now propose a
four-foot-wide strip of landscaping that will serve as this buffer zone (Figure 10).
Implementing this buffer segment will lead to an increase in right-of-way required
and will also necessitate adjustments to the existing driveways. The buffer zone will
limit the availability of right-of-way for existing utilities thereby requiring additional
undergrounding of existing utilities
Figure 10: Alma Street at Kellogg Avenue; showing buffer between the sidewalk and travel lane
Northbound Left Turn movement at Alma Village
During the review of turning movement, it was noted that U-turns at Alma Village and
Alma Street intersection will only be feasible for regular passenger vehicles. Therefore,
the U-turns will be restricted for trucks at this intersection (Figure 11).
Item 2
Staff Report
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 17 of 60
Item No. 2.Page 10 of 12
Figure 11: Charleston Road looking west; showing a 2-way bike path on the north side of
the roundabout.
Structures:
Bridge Deck Span:
The conceptual plans are updated to revise the bridge span as discussed. The center
column bridge support is now eliminated at Churchill Avenue to provide a continuous
single-span bridge (Figure 12).
Item 2
Staff Report
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 10 Packet Pg. 18 of 60
Item No. 2.Page 11 of 12
Figure 12: Churchill Avenue looking east, showing a single-span bridge.
Staff seeks the Rail Committee’s review and approval of the updates to the various
elements. The updated plans, profiles, and renderings of the Partial Underpass Alternative
at Churchill Avenue and Underpass Alternatives at Meadow Drive and Charleston Road are
attached.
RESOURCE IMPACT
Revisions to existing conceptual plans and cost estimates provided herein are within the
approved scope of the consultant contract. For the development of new alternatives or
revisions beyond the refinement of current alternatives, additional services of the consultant
would be needed.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The proposed action is part of a planning study for a possible future action, which has not
been approved, adopted, or funded and is therefore exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15262. The
future decision to approve the construction of any one of the identified potential alternatives
would be subject to CEQA and require the preparation of an environmental analysis.
Environmental review and design for the grade separation project will be performed in the
subsequent steps of the project development.
Item 2
Staff Report
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 11 Packet Pg. 19 of 60
Item No. 2.Page 12 of 12
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
The Rail Committee meetings are open to the public and therefore provide the community with
opportunities to provide comments to the rail committee and City.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Churchill Avenue Plan & Profile
Attachment B: Churchill Avenue Typical Sections
Attachment C: Churchill Avenue Renderings
Attachment D: Meadow Drive Plan
Attachment E: Meadow Drive Typical Sections
Attachment F: Meadow Drive Renderings
Attachment G: Charleston Road Plan
Attachment H: Charleston Road Typical Sections
Attachment I: Charleston Road Renderings
Attachment J: Hexagon Traffic Analysis
APPROVED BY:
Philip Kamhi, Chief Transportation Official
Report #: 2302-0973
Item 2
Staff Report
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 12 Packet Pg. 20 of 60
Plan & Profile
Churchill Underpass
Churchill Ave Aerial View (Plan)
Alma St (Profile)
Movement Diagram
Intersection Turning
Detail A
PRELIMINARY
FOR DISCUSSION PURPOSES ONLY
LEGEND:
Track
Retaining Wall
Right-of-Way
Direction of Traffic
Structure
Roadway Modifications
Ped/Bike Ramps & Sidewalks
35 mph design speedChurchill Underpass Concept (Price) at Alma St
M
e
lvill
e
A
ve
K
e
llo
g
g
A
ve
C
h
u
rch
ill
A
ve
C
o
le
rid
g
e
A
ve
Alma St
Paly Rd
Mariposa Ave
Castilleja Ave100 ft500 ft
See Detail A on this sheet
0.0%
0.0%
-7.0%
+6.5%
Original Ground
Profile Grade
Roadway
60
50
40
30
20
60
50
40
30
20
202+00 203+00 204+00 205+00 206+00 207+00 208+00 209+00 210+00 211+00 212+00
330' VC
300' VC
305' VC
Total Length = 1,000 ft
Ave
Kellogg
Ave
Churchill
Ave
Coleridge
R=5'R=5'
32'
9'
9'
12'
Tunnel below
Item 2
Attachment A - Churchill Plan and
Profile_2023-01-20 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 13 Packet Pg. 21 of 60
Profile & Typical Sections
Churchill Underpass
Churchill Ave (Profile)
Alma St (North of Churchill Ave)
Typical Section
Churchill Ave Underpass
Typical Section
Kellogg Ave
Typical Section
PRELIMINARY
FOR DISCUSSION PURPOSES ONLY
Original Ground = Existing Top of Rail
CL
Churchill Ave
20' - 0" *
11'11'10'16'
centerline of Churchill Ave
*Dimension shown at
8'
WB Lane
Turn Lane
EB Left
Turn Lane
EB RightShld Shld
12% max grade (25 mph)Churchill Underpass Concept (Price)
10'
NB Alma St
NB LaneSB LaneSB Lane
12'
13'
NB Lane NB Lane
10'
10'8'
Shld
R/W
Caltrain
4'
12'
9'9'
PL
Prop
PL
Exist
Sidewalk
5'
Landscape
Track
MT-2
Track
MT-1
R/W
Caltrain
14' +/-
Ped/Bike Path
Southbound
Ped/Bike Path
Northbound
Ped/Bike Path
2-Way
To Be Reconstructed
Existing Bleachers
12'
LANE
RAMP
Ped/Bike
FL
FL
16'
Sidewalk
16'
LANE Sidewalk
PL PL
4'±4'±2'-6"2'-6"
60'
MT2
M
in
V
e
rt C
lr
15
' - 6
"
Profile Grade
Roadway
Total length = 425 ft
Castilleja Ave
Paly Rd/
Alma St
NB
60
50
40
30
20
99+00 100+00
60
50
40
30
20
105+00104+00101+00 102+00 103+00
0%
-11%
+2%
Ground
Original MT1
Ped/Bike Bridge
St
Alma
RR Bridge
Item 2
Attachment B - Churchill Typical
Sections_2023-01-20 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 14 Packet Pg. 22 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 15 Packet Pg. 23 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 16 Packet Pg. 24 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 17 Packet Pg. 25 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 18 Packet Pg. 26 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 19 Packet Pg. 27 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 20 Packet Pg. 28 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 21 Packet Pg. 29 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 22 Packet Pg. 30 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 23 Packet Pg. 31 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 24 Packet Pg. 32 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 25 Packet Pg. 33 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 26 Packet Pg. 34 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 27 Packet Pg. 35 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 28 Packet Pg. 36 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 29 Packet Pg. 37 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 30 Packet Pg. 38 of 60
Item 2
Attachment C - Churchill
Renderings_Jan_2023-v07-low (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 31 Packet Pg. 39 of 60
Meadow Drive Aerial View (Plan)
Meadow Underpass
Palo Alto Grade Separation Planning Study
Movement Diagram
Intersection Turning
Alma St
Park BlvdPark Blvd
Emerson St
E
M
e
a
d
o
w
D
r
2nd St
100 ft500 ft
See note
See note
NOTE:
beacons, to be considered in future phases.
traffic signals and rectangular rapid flashing
Additional features at crosswalks, such as HAWK
PRELIMINARY
FOR DISCUSSION PURPOSES ONLY
LEGEND:
Track
Retaining Wall
Right-of-Way
Direction of Traffic
Structure
Roadway Modifications
Ped/Bike Ramps & Sidewalks
Item 2
Attachment D - Meadow Plan_2023-
02-09 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 32 Packet Pg. 40 of 60
Profiles & Typical Section
Meadow Dr Underpass
Meadow Dr Underpass
Typical Section
Meadow Dr Profile
Ped/Bike Profile from Park Blvd to Emerson St
(North Side of Meadow Dr)
Park Blvd Profile
PRELIMINARY
FOR DISCUSSION PURPOSES ONLY
11'
EB Lane
8'11'
WB Lane
(Back of Exist Sidewalk)
Property Line
Shld
8'
Shld
20'
2-Way Ped/Bike Path
(Back of Exist Sidewalk)
Property Line
58' ±
Meadow Dr (East of Alma St)
Typical Section - Modification of Meadow/Roundabout Concept
12'
Ped/Bike Path
101+00 102+00 103+00 104+00 105+00 106+00 107+00 108+00
10
20
30
40
50
0
10
20
30
40
50
0Ped/Bike Path from Park Blvd to Emerson St
Meadow Underpass Concept (Elizabeth Alexis)
200+00 201+00 202+00 203+00 204+00 205+00 206+00 207+00
10
20
30
40
50
60
10
20
30
40
50
60
North Side
Side Street Profile from Park Blvd to Meadow
Meadow Underpass Concept (Elizabeth Alexis)
20
30
40
50
60
400+00 401+00
20
30
40
50
60
Alma St
MT2
MT1
-0.5%
Total Length = 710 ft
St
Emerson
Original Ground
195' VC
296' VC
190' VC
1
5' - 6
"
-12%+10%
-1%
1
5
' - 6
"
1
5
' - 6
"
1
5
' - 6
"
Blvd
Park
Profile Grade
Bridge
Ped/Bike
Bridge
Ped/Bike
MT1
MT2
100' VC
50' VC
Original Ground
8' - 0
"
10
' - 0
"
0%
-1%
-5%
+5%
St
Emerson
Profile Grade
Blvd
Park
St
AlmaBridge
Ped/Bike
10
' - 0
"
Bridge
Ped/Bike
11' - 0
"
50' VC
35' VC
Ground
Original
0%
+8%
-2%
Grade
Profile
Dr
Meadow
Item 2
Attachment E - Meadow Profile and
Typical Sections_2023-02-09 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 33 Packet Pg. 41 of 60
PRELIMINARY
FOR DISCUSSION PURPOSES ONLY
LEGEND:
Track
Retaining Wall
Right-of-Way
Direction of Traffic
Structure
Roadway Modifications
Ped/Bike Ramps & Sidewalks
Planting Area
A
do
b
e C
r
Charleston Road Aerial View (Plan)
Charleston Underpass
Palo Alto Grade Separation Planning Study
Movement Diagram
Intersection Turning
0 ft 175 ft87.5
Park Blvd
Alma St
Alma St
Park Blvd
W
C
h
a
rle
sto
n
R
d
E
ly P
l
G
re
e
n
m
e
a
d
o
w
W
a
y
E
C
harleston
R
d
Mumford Pl
Wright Pl
Ruthelma Ave
Carlson Ct
Item 2
Attachment F - Meadow-
Underpass_rendering_updates_Jan_2023-
03 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 34 Packet Pg. 42 of 60
PRELIMINARY
FOR DISCUSSION PURPOSES ONLY
LEGEND:
Track
Retaining Wall
Right-of-Way
Direction of Traffic
Structure
Roadway Modifications
Ped/Bike Ramps & Sidewalks
A
dobe C
r
Charleston Road Aerial View (Plan)
Charleston Underpass
Palo Alto Grade Separation Planning Study
Movement Diagram
Intersection Turning
0 ft 175 ft87.5
Park Blvd
Alma St
Alma St
Park Blvd
W
C
h
a
rle
sto
n
R
d
E
ly P
l
G
re
e
n
m
e
a
d
o
w
W
a
y
E
C
h
a
rle
sto
n
R
d
Mumford Pl
Wright Pl
Ruthelma Ave
Carlson Ct
Item 2
Attachment G - Charleston
Plan_2023-01-30
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 35 Packet Pg. 43 of 60
Profiles & Typical Section
Charleston Underpass
Park Blvd Profile (North Side)
Charleston Rd Profile
Ped/Bike Profile from Park Blvd to Wright Pl
EB Charleston Rd to SB Alma St
Ramp Profile
Typical Section - Charleston Rd Underpass PRELIMINARY
FOR DISCUSSION PURPOSES ONLY
101+00 102+00 103+00 104+00 105+00 106+00 107+00 108+00 109+00
Alma St
MT2 MT1
Grade Separation Structure
Charleston/Meadow Underpass Concept (Elizabeth Alexis)
Park Blvd
Wright Pl
Ramp Profile from Charleston to Alma
Charleston/Meadow Underpass Concept (Elizabeth Alexis)
Bridge
Ped/Bike
186' VC
296' VC
190' VC
1
5
'-6
"
1
5
'-6
"
-12%
+10%
-1%
-1%
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
0
Original Ground
Profile Grade
1
6
'-3
"
Ped/Bike Path from Park Blvd to Mumford
Charleston/Meadow Underpass Concept (Elizabeth Alexis)
MT2
MT1
Alma St
Wright Pl
50' VC
-5%
+4%
1
0
'-0
"
150' VC 1
0
'-0"
10
20
30
40
50
60
0
300+00 301+00 302+00 303+00 304+00 305+00 306+00 307+00299+00298+00
10
20
30
40
50
60
0
-1%
Profile Grade
Original Ground
Blvd
Park
Road Profile
Governed by
Park Blvd Profile
Charleston Underpass Concept (Elizabeth Alexis)
-1%
-1%
70' VC
-9%+12%
70' VC
20' VC
20
30
40
50
60
20
30
40
50
60
201+00 202+00 203+00 204+00
Profile Grade
Original Ground
Ramp Profile from Charleston to AlmaCharleston/Meadow Underpass Concept (Elizabeth Alexis)
Charleston Rd
-2%
55' VC
+9%
425' VC
0%
10
20
30
40
50
60
0
200+00 201+00 202+00 203+00 204+00 205+00 206+00
10
20
30
40
50
60
0
Profile Grade
Original Ground
12'
EB Lane
12'
EB Lane
8'
5'
Sidewalk
(Back of Exist Sidewalk)
Property Line
12'
WB Lane
(Back of Exist Sidewalk)
Property Line
Shld
8'
Shld
14'
WB Lane
20'
2-Way Ped/Bike Path
~12'
Typical Section - Charleston Rd (East of Alma St - Looking East)
Item 2
Attachment H - Charleston Typical
Sections_2022-12-28_EP
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 36 Packet Pg. 44 of 60
Item 2
Attachment I - Charleston-
Underpass_rendering_updates_Jan_2023-
02 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 37 Packet Pg. 45 of 60
Item 2
Attachment I - Charleston-
Underpass_rendering_updates_Jan_2023-
02 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 38 Packet Pg. 46 of 60
Item 2
Attachment I - Charleston-
Underpass_rendering_updates_Jan_2023-
02 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 39 Packet Pg. 47 of 60
Item 2
Attachment I - Charleston-
Underpass_rendering_updates_Jan_2023-
02 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 40 Packet Pg. 48 of 60
Item 2
Attachment I - Charleston-
Underpass_rendering_updates_Jan_2023-
02 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 41 Packet Pg. 49 of 60
Item 2
Attachment I - Charleston-
Underpass_rendering_updates_Jan_2023-
02 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 42 Packet Pg. 50 of 60
Item 2
Attachment I - Charleston-
Underpass_rendering_updates_Jan_2023-
02 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 43 Packet Pg. 51 of 60
Item 2
Attachment I - Charleston-
Underpass_rendering_updates_Jan_2023-
02 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 44 Packet Pg. 52 of 60
Item 2
Attachment I - Charleston-
Underpass_rendering_updates_Jan_2023-
02 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 45 Packet Pg. 53 of 60
Item 2
Attachment I - Charleston-
Underpass_rendering_updates_Jan_2023-
02 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 46 Packet Pg. 54 of 60
Item 2
Attachment I - Charleston-
Underpass_rendering_updates_Jan_2023-
02 (1)
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 47 Packet Pg. 55 of 60
Memorandum
Date: April 10, 2023
To: Mr. Peter DeStefano, AECOM
Ripon Bhatia, City of Palo Alto
From: Trisha Dudala, Katie Riutta
Subject: Traffic Study for the Palo Alto Grade Separation New Underpass Alternative
Hexagon Transportation Consultants, Inc. has completed a traffic study for the new underpass
alternative for the Palo Alto Grade Separation project. The current underpass alternative consists of
two-way bike lanes on the south side of E. Meadow Drive and on the north side of Charleston
Road. The new underpass alternative includes bike lanes on both sides of E. Meadow Drive and on
both sides of Charleston Road. As a result, some intersection movements would need to be
prohibited (see attachment). The prohibited movements include the southbound off-ramp and
northbound on-ramp on Alma Street at E. Meadow Drive and the southbound on-ramp on Alma
Street at Charleston Road. The blue “X” shown in the drawings represent the prohibited
movements. As Charleston Road is located only one block from Meadow, to represent a
conservative analysis, all traffic from the prohibited movements at Alma/Meadow intersection (from
southbound Alma to Meadow from Meadow to northbound Alma) were reassigned to the
Alma/Charleston intersection. Also, traffic on eastbound Charleston to southbound Alma would
need to make a U-turn at the roundabout and make a left-turn at the Alma Street/Charleston
westbound on-ramp signal under this new alternative.
Traffic Operations Analysis
Traffic operations along Alma Street and Charleston Road were examined using simulation
analysis. Table 1 shows the intersection delays and level of service (LOS) under the new
underpass alternative with existing volumes and year 2030 volumes. Based on the simulation
analysis, all intersections are expected to operate at LOS F during both the AM and PM peak hours
under both existing and year 2030 conditions with the new underpass alternative.
Table 1
Intersection Level of Service Summary
Intersection Delay (s)LOS Delay (s)LOS
Alma Street & Charleston Road (North)AM 205.06 F 245.78 F
PM 227.89 F 229.81 F
Alma Street & Charleston Road (South)AM 173.29 F 592.81 F
PM 122.12 F 399.31 F
Roundabout on Charleston Road AM 83.28 F 171.13 F
PM 102.38 F 253.95 F
Peak
Hour
Existing Year 2030
Item 2
Attachment J - Hexagon
Palo Alto Grade
Separation New
Underpass Alternative
Study
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 48 Packet Pg. 56 of 60
Palo Alto Grade Separation New Underpass Alternative April 10, 2023
P a g e | 2
During both the AM and PM peak hours, queues for the westbound right and left-turn movements
from Charleston Road onto Alma Street would extend back into the roundabout. Queues from the
roundabout would extend along westbound and eastbound Charleston Road and onto the
northbound right-turn lane on Alma Street. Queues for the southbound left-turn movement on Alma
Street at Charleston Road would extend back toward E. Meadow Drive during both peak hours.
Conclusion
Based on the reported vehicle delays and the observed vehicle queues in the simulation analysis,
the new underpass alternative would not be able to adequately accommodate existing or future
vehicle traffic.
Item 2
Attachment J - Hexagon
Palo Alto Grade
Separation New
Underpass Alternative
Study
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 49 Packet Pg. 57 of 60
Appendix A
Intersection Turning
Movement Diagrams
Item 2
Attachment J - Hexagon
Palo Alto Grade
Separation New
Underpass Alternative
Study
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 50 Packet Pg. 58 of 60
Meadow Drive Aerial View (Plan)
Meadow Underpass
Palo Alto Grade Separation Planning Study
Movement Diagram
Intersection Turning
Alma St
Park BlvdPark Blvd
Emerson St
E
M
e
a
d
o
w
D
r
2nd St
100 ft500 ft
See note
See note
NOTE:
beacons, to be considered in future phases.
traffic signals and rectangular rapid flashing
Additional features at crosswalks, such as HAWK
PRELIMINARY
FOR DISCUSSION PURPOSES ONLY
LEGEND:
Track
Retaining Wall
Right-of-Way
Direction of Traffic
Structure
Roadway Modifications
Ped/Bike Ramps & Sidewalks
Item 2
Attachment J - Hexagon Palo Alto
Grade Separation New Underpass
Alternative Study
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 51 Packet Pg. 59 of 60
PRELIMINARY
FOR DISCUSSION PURPOSES ONLY
LEGEND:
Track
Retaining Wall
Right-of-Way
Direction of Traffic
Structure
Roadway Modifications
Ped/Bike Ramps & Sidewalks
Planting Area
A
do
b
e C
r
Charleston Road Aerial View (Plan)
Charleston Underpass
Palo Alto Grade Separation Planning Study
Movement Diagram
Intersection Turning
0 ft 175 ft87.5
Park Blvd
Alma St
Alma St
Park Blvd
W
C
h
a
rle
sto
n
R
d
E
ly P
l
G
re
e
n
m
e
a
d
o
w
W
a
y
E
C
harleston
R
d
Mumford Pl
Wright Pl
Ruthelma Ave
Carlson Ct
Item 2
Attachment J - Hexagon Palo Alto
Grade Separation New Underpass
Alternative Study
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 52 Packet Pg. 60 of 60