VISION STATEMENT, GOALS, POLICIES AND PROGRAMS

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1 Draft Comprehensive Plan 2030 VISION STATEMENT, GOALS, POLICIES AND PROGRAMS Planning and Community Environment Department April 2014 Version 1.0 Draft Comprehensive Plan 1

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5 Table of Contents Introduction...7 Comprehensive Plan Ammendment Process Comprehensive Plan Elements* Land Use and Community Design Element...13 Transportation Element...55 Community Services and Facilities Element Natural and Urban Environment and Safety Element Business and Economics Element Concept Area Plans Final East Meadow Circle/Fabian Way Concept Plan Accepted by City Council on March 2012 Draft California Avenue Area Concept Plan *The Housing Element, although an Element of the Comprehensive Plan, is being prepared under a separate process. The Governance Chapter will be completed as a part of the Our Palo Alto process and will be reviewed by City Council once completed. Draft Comprehensive Plan 5

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7 INTRODUCTION Under California law, each city and county must have a Comprehensive Plan (also known as a General Plan) to guide its future growth and development. A Comprehensive Plan is a long-range document that includes goals, policies and programs for how a community will manage its land use, housing, circulation, natural resources, economics and public services. State law requires that local plans contain seven mandatory sections, or elements ; and these elements are: Land Use, Circulation, Housing, Open Space, Conservation, Safety and Noise. The State provides considerable flexibility in how these elements are organized. Palo Alto s Comprehensive Plan departs from the structure suggested by the State. The scope of the Land Use Element is broadened to address community design. The Natural Environment Element incorporates open space, conservation, public safety and noise. The Comprehensive Plan also includes a Business and Economics Element and a Community Services and Facilities Element. Although these two elements address topics that are not required by State law, the issues they address are fundamental to the future quality of life in Palo Alto. The Plan also contains a Governance Chapter, another non-mandatory section addressing community involvement and community participation in the City planning process. The optional elements have the same legal status as the mandatory elements. No single element or subject supersedes any other. The following table illustrates the relationship between the state requirements and the s Comprehensive Plan. State-Mandated Elements Land Use Circulation Housing Open space Conservation Safety Noise Corresponding Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan Elements Land Use& Community Design Transportation Housing Natural Environment Community Services & Facilities Business& Economics Governance Chapter Draft Comprehensive Plan 7

8 Each Comprehensive Plan element is intended to provide a policy and program framework for forward-looking solutions that realize the City s overall vision. Each chapter of the plan includes its own vision statement and supporting goals, policies and programs that are to be consulted to guide decisions on a wide range of issues. Although each element focuses on a specific topic, they were developed to cohesively implement the major themes and overall vision of the plan. The supporting goals, policies and programs for the vision statements in each chapter of the plan are defined in the following way: A Goal is a general end towards which the City will direct effort. A Policy is a specific statement of principle or of guiding actions that implies clear commitment but is not mandatory. A general direction that a governmental agency sets to follow, in order to meet its goals and objectives before undertaking an action program. A Program is an action, activity, or strategy carried out in response to an adopted policy to achieve a specific goal or objective. The Comprehensive Plan of the is based on seven major themes identified below. These themes act as building blocks to achieve a comprehensive, long range, internally consistent vision for the City. They are as follows: o o o o o o o Building Community and Neighborhoods Maintaining and Enhancing Community Character Reducing Reliance on the Automobile Meeting Housing Supply Challenges Protecting and Repairing Natural Features Meeting Residential and Commercial Needs Providing Responsive Governance and Regional Leadership Draft Comprehensive Plan 8

9 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT PROCESS City Council initiated the Comprehensive Plan amendment project in Funding for the project was allocated in 2007 and the consultant team Placeworks was hired in The amendment was intended to reflect the changes occurring in Palo Alto since early The following work program outlining City Council direction was adopted in 2007 o Extending the horizon year of the Plan to 2020; o Update baseline data and growth projections; o Review and update the goals, policies and programs as needed to address economic, social and environmental changes and o Prepare a concept area plan for East Meadow Circle area and California Avenue area and identify appropriate land use and zoning changes. The review of the existing goals, policies and programs for relevance and consistency was based on the work program directed by City Council. o Ensuring the retention of sufficient land for neighborhoodserving retail uses and commercial growth; o Adequately mitigating impacts of increased housing on community services such as parks, libraries and schools; and o Addressing the City's commitment to climate protection and sustainability. City Staff began working with the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) from late 2008 through 2009 to review the existing elements, preparing background reports and updating baseline growth projections. As a part of the Comprehensive Plan amendment process staff also initiated work on the two concept area plans; California Avenue/Fry s Area Concept Plan and the East Meadow Circle/Fabian Way Concept Area Plan. From 2010 to present, City staff and seven PTC sub-committees met regularly to review each element of the Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive Plan subcommittee process has been effective in Draft Comprehensive Plan 9

10 identifying necessary changes to the Comprehensive Plan including creating a clearer, cohesive and less redundant policy document. The original work program to update the structure, vision, goals and program statements has developed into a more robust update as a result of the subcommittee process. This involved rearranging chapters and elements and substantially changing the format of the existing plan. New policies and programs are included to clarify existing policies and programs and to accommodate new State requirements. As of February 2014, the PTC has reviewed and recommended inclusion of the all draft elements as well as the two concept area plans into the Comprehensive Plan amendment. Several city Departments worked together in updating this document. The Comprehensive Plan amendment process also had an outreach process including workshops, review by boards and commissions and study sessions. The following table illustrates the types of outreach conducted since Draft Comprehensive Plan 10

11 Public Outreach Speaker Series Background Reports Concept Plans California Avenue/Fry s Area Concept Plan East Meadow Circle/Fabian Way Concept Plan Themes and Vision Statements Community Services and Facilities Element Natural Environment Element Comprehensive Plan Elements Land Use and community Design Element Transportation Element Housing Element Business Element Governance Element Walking Tours Stakeholder's Meetings Technical Advisory Group (TAG) Meetings Focus Group Meetings Concept Area Plan Workshops PTC Review Meetings Other Boards and Commission Review (Utility Advisory Commission, Human Resource Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission and Library Commission) City Council and PTC Joint Study Session Meetings Comprehensive Plan Website Future of the City Visioning Meetings City Council Review Website launched in 2008 and periodically updated Note: Each dot denotes one meeting. Housing Element refers to Housing Element. The East Meadow circle /Fabian Way Concept Plan were a product of a series of stakeholder meetings and well-attended public workshops held between February 2009 and November The Concept Plan identifies the kinds of uses and the types of future development that would be desirable in the Plan area. City Council accepted the Draft East Meadow Circle / Fabian Way Concept Plan in March 2012, and the Concept Plan will be incorporated into the Comprehensive Plan as an appendix. The California Avenue Area Concept Plan currently in draft form outlines a vision for sustaining and improving the 115-acre California Avenue/Fry s area. This plan was developed through a series of public meetings held from 2009 to 2012; a preferred land use scenario was developed to identify the kinds of Draft Comprehensive Plan 11

12 uses and the types of future development desirable in the concept plan area. Three formal reviews before the PTC were held on November and December of 2013 and February of CONTENTS OF THIS DOCUMENT This document contains the Planning and Transportation Commission reviewed and accepted vision statements, goals, policies and programs for each of the elements of the Comprehensive Plan (except for Governance Chapter and Housing Element as described above). All comments received from the Planning and Transportation Commission last review has been included in the document. Each of the elements has the following: o o o o A new vision statement; New goals, policies and programs noted as New Edited ( Comprehensive Plan) policies and programs noted as Edited and Comprehensive Plan policies and programs carried over without edits identified as No Change The document also includes the latest versions of the two Concept Area Plans, one of which is still under review. The document does not contain any narrative section that will be present at the beginning of each element. It also does not contain any photographs, maps, tables or charts that will be included for each element later on in the process. Draft Comprehensive Plan 12

13 Land Use and Community Design Element Draft Comprehensive Plan 13

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15 Highlights of Change This Element will meet the State-mandated requirements for a Land Use Element. It will define the City s land use categories and includes the proposed Land Use and Circulation Map guiding the development of each property in the City. The relationship between land use, urban design, transportation, and economics are emphasized in the Land Use and Community Design Element. This element addresses urban design as a part of this Element, and recognizes that the design of buildings and surrounding spaces cannot be separated from land use decisions. New Vision Statement Palo Alto s land use decisions shall balance our future growth needs with the preservation of our neighborhoods, address climate protection priorities and focus on sustainable development near neighborhood services, and enhance the quality of life in our community. Proposed Element Structure The proposed element has five goals while the existing element had nine. The format has been restructured, some goals have been merged and new topics have been introduced. The following is the new goal structure. L1-Land Use to Support City s Future Need L2-sustaining Public Places L3-Guiding Private Development L4-Preserving Historic and Archaeological Resources L5-Regional Land use Major New Concepts Added In the proposed draft the following new topics have been introduced Strategies to limit conversion of non-residential land to residential uses and limit loss of retail serving uses; Draft Comprehensive Plan 15

16 Incorporate the East Meadow Circle/Fabian Way Concept Area Plan and California Avenue Concept Area Plan; Consistency with the City's Climate Protection Plan and 2020 Green House Gas (GHG) emission targets and Consistency with Baylands Master Plan, Bicycle Plan, and Rail Corridor study. A Summary of Changes Land Use and Community Design Element had 76 policies and 81 programs 77% of the existing policies and programs are being carried over to the amended element; 20% of the existing policies and programs are deemed complete; 3 % of the policies and programs went through status change; 57% of the old policies and programs were edited; 20% of the old policies and programs were carried over with no change and 26 new policies and 21 new programs were added. The draft Land Use and Community Design element has a total of 92 policies and 78 programs. Draft Comprehensive Plan 16

17 LAND USE AND COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT Proposed Vision Palo Alto s land use decisions shall balance our future growth needs with the preservation of our neighborhoods, address climate protection priorities and focus on sustainable development near neighborhood services, and enhance the quality of life in our community. Existing Vision Palo Alto will be a vital, attractive place to live, work, and visit. The elements that make Palo Alto a great community its neighborhoods, shopping and employment centers, civic uses, open spaces, and natural resources will be strengthened and enhanced. The diverse range of housing and work environments will be sustained and expanded to create more choices for all income levels. All Palo Alto neighborhoods will be improved, each to have public gathering spaces, essential services and pedestrian amenities, to encourage less reliance on the automobile. Draft Comprehensive Plan 17

18 LAND USE AND COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT TABLE OF CONTENTS L1 L2 LAND USE TO SUPPORT THE CITY S FUTURE NEEDS Urban space is a limited resource; therefore, development needs to be compact and the best use made of land to balance natural resources and community needs Climate Protection Land use in Urban Service Area SUSTAINING PUBLIC PLACES Plan for streets and public spaces to enrich Palo Alto s sense of place and community Urban Design Guidelines Downtown Public Spaces Mixed Use Guidelines Public Facilities Design Guidelines L3 GUIDING PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT Guide growth, change and preservation of residential and business areas through planning policies that sustain their unique character Citywide Residential Guidelines Guidelines for Neighborhood Centers and Employment Districts East Meadow Circle Concept Area Plan California Avenue Concept Area Plan L4 L5 PRESERVING HISTORIC AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES Recognize the value and importance of archeological resources, historic buildings and places and their importance to a sustainable environment in Palo Alto Encourage Preservation Archeological Resources REGIONAL LAND USE Encourage development in Palo Alto to provide public benefits and employment to neighboring cities and counties while Draft Comprehensive Plan 18

19 improving land uses, streets, infrastructure and character of the City Regional Land use Stanford Land use (Shopping Center, Research Park and Medical Center) Downtown Palo Alto Airport Land use Baylands Land use Draft Comprehensive Plan 19

20 LAND USE TO SUPPORT CITY S FUTURE NEEDS L1 GOAL URBAN SPACE IS A LIMITED RESOURCE; THEREFORE, DEVELOPMENT NEEDS TO BE COMPACT AND THE BEST USE MADE OF LAND TO BALANCE NATURAL RESOURCES AND COMMUNITY NEEDS. CLIMATE PROTECTION L1.1 POLICY Require that land use policies be consistent with Palo Alto s Climate Protection Plan, striving to achieve and exceed target reductions in greenhouse gas emission levels set forth by City Council goals from City operations and community emissions. (New Policy) L1.1.1 PROGRAM Research and adopt a set of metrics to evaluate green house gas emissions associated with land uses for mandatory use by new development and voluntary use by other users. (New Program) L1.1.2 PROGRAM Continue to implement the goals and timelines of the State Climate Protection regulations by integrating land use with transit to reduce the City s carbon footprint. (New Program) L1.1.3 PROGRAM Implement the California Green Building Code by adopting Tier 1 and Tier 2 requirements to further our sustainable building goals and by adopting updates when new technology and State laws make them available. (New Program) L1.1.4 PROGRAM Review the Zoning Ordinance, and revise if needed, to ensure that the concepts found in LEED-ND (LEED for Neighborhood Development) are reflected in regulations related to transit-oriented community development. (New Program) L1.1.5 PROGRAM Expand Palo Alto s street tree system by adding low maintenance trees, including native species, to alleviate greenhouse gas emissions as part of implementing the City s Climate Protection Plan (Previous Policy L-70) (Policy changed to a Program) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L70: Enhance the appearance of streets and other public spaces by expanding and maintaining Palo Alto's street tree system. Draft Comprehensive Plan 20

21 LAND USE IN URBAN SERVICE AREA L1.2 POLICY Continue to limit urban development to currently developed lands within the Urban Service Area (USA), shown in Figure LU-2. (Previous Policy L-1) (Policy Split) PREVIOUS POLICY L1: Continue current City policy limiting future urban development to currently developed lands within the urban service area. The boundary of the urban service area is otherwise known as the urban growth boundary. Retain undeveloped land west of Foothill Expressway and Junipero Serra as open space, with allowances made for very low-intensity development consistent with the open space character of the area. Retain undeveloped Baylands northeast of Highway 101 as open space. L1.3 POLICY Maintain a limit of 3,257,900 square feet of new non-residential development beyond the amount that existed in 1989, as evaluated in the 1989 Citywide Land Use and Transportation Study, with the understanding that the City Council may make modifications to the 1989 Citywide study for specific properties that allow modest additional growth. Development of such additional growth will count towards the total maximum allowed in the study. (Previous Policy L-8) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L8: Maintain a limit of 3,257,900 square feet of new non-residential development for the nine planning areas evaluated in the 1989 Citywide Land Use and Transportation Study, with the understanding that the City Council may make modifications for specific properties that allow modest additional growth. Such additional growth will count towards the 3,257,900 maximum. L1.3.1 PROGRAM Establish a system to monitor the amount of non-residential development and traffic conditions at key intersections related to both residential and non-residential development including those identified in the 1989 Citywide Study and additional intersections identified in the Comprehensive Plan EIR. If the rate of growth reaches the point where the citywide development maximum might be reached, the City will reevaluate development policies and regulations. (Previous Program L-7) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L7: Establish a system to monitor the rate of non-residential development and traffic conditions related to both residential and non-residential development at key intersections including those identified in the 1989 Citywide Study and additional intersections identified in the Comprehensive Plan EIR. If the rate of growth reaches the point where the citywide development maximum might be reached, the City will reevaluate development policies and regulations. L1.4 POLICY Require new development to demonstrate that adequate public services and facilities are planned and will be constructed to accommodate development within the Urban Service Area. (New Policy) L1.5 POLICY Guide development to respect and preserve views of the foothills and East Bay hills from public streets in the developed portions of the City. (Previous Draft Comprehensive Plan 21

22 Policy L-3 & Policy L-69) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L3: Guide development to respect views of the foothills and East Bay hills from public streets in the developed portions of the City. PREVIOUS POLICY L69: Preserve the scenic qualities of Palo Alto roads and trails for motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and equestrians. L1.5.1 PROGRAM Maintain Sand Hill Road, University Avenue, Embarcadero Road, Page Mill Road, Oregon Expressway, Interstate 280, Arastradero Road (west of Foothill Expressway), Junipero Serra Boulevard/Foothill Expressway, and Skyline Boulevard as local scenic routes. (Previous Program L-71) (No Change) L1.6 POLICY Retain the open space character of undeveloped land west of Foothill Expressway and Junipero Serra Boulevard while allowing appropriate land uses. (Previous Policy L-1) (Policy Split) PREVIOUS POLICY L1: Continue current City policy limiting future urban development to currently developed lands within the urban service area. The boundary of the urban service area is otherwise known as the urban growth boundary. Retain undeveloped land west of Foothill Expressway and Junipero Serra as open space, with allowances made for very low-intensity development consistent with the open space character of the area. Retain undeveloped Baylands northeast of Highway 101 as open space. L1.7 POLICY Manage redevelopment of vacant and underused properties to promote infill development. (New Policy) L1.7.1 PROGRAM Create a list of vacant and underused properties and identify potential barriers to infill development on those sites and work with property owners to overcome such barriers. (New Program) SUSTAINING PUBLIC PLACES L2 GOAL PLAN FOR STREETS AND PUBLIC SPACES TO ENRICH PALO ALTO S SENSE OF PLACE AND COMMUNITY. URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES L2.1 POLICY Invest in the improvement of the City s urban streetscape to support business prosperity, pedestrian usage and the aesthetic quality of its civic spaces. (New Policy) L2.2 POLICY Continue to develop Area Plans and Concept Plans to emphasize pedestrian-oriented development that creates a strong connectivity Draft Comprehensive Plan 22

23 between new development and existing neighborhoods. (New Policy) L2.3 POLICY Reinforce the existing character and scale of streets, new public plazas or gardens to create connectivity between new development and its surroundings. Do not allow new developments to interrupt the City s network of streets, bike routes and pedestrian paths. (Policy L-5) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L5: Maintain the scale and character of the City. Avoid land uses that are overwhelming and unacceptable due to their size and scale. L2.3.1 PROGRAM In areas of the City having a historic design character, design new development to reflect the existing character. (Previous Program L-49) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L49: In areas of the City having a historic design character, design new development to maintain and support the existing character. L2.3.2 PROGRAM Maintain and periodically review site development regulations to discourage single uses that are inappropriate in size and scale to the surrounding uses. (Previous Program L-3) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L3: Maintain and periodically review height and density limits to discourage single uses that are inappropriate in size and scale to the surrounding uses. L2.3.3 PROGRAM Use the Zoning Ordinance, design review process, design guidelines, and Coordinated Area Plans to ensure high quality residential and commercial design. (Previous Program L-48) (No Change) L2.4 POLICY Promote design and site planning of on-site open space in new development that incorporates green building principles and invites inhabitants of surrounding development to use it. (Previous Policy L-48) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L48: Promote high quality, creative design and site planning that is compatible with surrounding development and public spaces. L2.5 POLICY Encourage developments to use an efficient parking design and allow the implementation of creative parking solutions, including shared parking with adjacent uses to minimize the amount of land devoted to parking, provided that City s traffic safety, parking and economic goals are met. (Previous Policy L-77 & Policy L78) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L77: Encourage alternatives to surface parking lots to minimize the amount of land that must be devoted to parking, provided that economic and traffic safety goals can still be achieved. PREVIOUS POLICY L78: Encourage development that creatively integrates parking into the project by providing for shared use of parking areas. Draft Comprehensive Plan 23

24 L2.5.1 PROGRAM Encourage, wherever feasible, photovoltaic cover, tree canopy cover, as well as landscaping to reduce the heat island effects of large at-grade parking lots. For below grade or structured parking for large developments enhance walkability to and from streets and promote proper management of storm water discharge. (Previous Policy L-75 and L76) (Policy changed to Program) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L75: Minimize the negative physical impacts of parking lots. Locate parking behind buildings or underground wherever possible. PREVIOUS POLICY L76: Require trees and other landscaping within parking lots. L2.5.3 PROGRAM Encourage the use of Planned Community (PC) zoning for parking structures Downtown and in the California Avenue area. (Previous Program L-78) (No Change) L2.6 POLICY Recognize the significance of innovative, high-quality architecture in supporting community character and urban design. (New Policy) L2.6.1 PROGRAM Update and revise the Downtown, El Camino Real, and South El Camino Real Design Guidelines to support building forms and massing that relate to the street and the pedestrian, whether through traditional architectural forms or innovative new designs. (New Program) L2.6.2 PROGRAM Promote awards programs and other forms of public recognition for projects of architectural and historic merit that contribute in a positive manner to make the community sustainable. (Previous Program L-53 &Program L-62) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L53: Promote awards programs and other forms of public recognition for projects of architectural merit that contribute positively to the community. PREVIOUS PROGRAM L62: Promote awards programs and other forms of public recognition for exemplary Historic Preservation projects. L2.7 POLICY Encourage high-quality signage that is attractive, appropriate for the location, energy efficient, and balances visibility with aesthetic needs. (Previous Policy L-50) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L50: Encourage high quality signage that is attractive, appropriate for the location and balances visibility needs with aesthetic needs. L2.8 POLICY Strengthen the identity of important natural and urban landmarks, such as public art, that serve as gateways to the city and elsewhere in Palo Alto. Ensure that such landmarks and art installations are compatible with the character and identity of the surrounding neighborhood. (Previous Policy L- 71 & Policy L-72) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L71: Strengthen the identity of important community gateways, including the entrances to the City at Highway 101, El Camino Real and Middlefield Road; Draft Comprehensive Plan 24

25 the Caltrain stations; entries to commercial districts; and Embarcadero Road at El Camino Real. PREVIOUS POLICY L72: Promote and maintain public art and cultural facilities throughout Palo Alto. Ensure that such projects are compatible with the character and identity of the surrounding neighborhood. L2.8.1 PROGRAM Develop a strategy to acknowledge important City entry sites with special landscaping, art, public spaces, and/or public buildings. Enhance the natural gateways at the creek bridges and riparian settings at the entrances to the City over Adobe Creek and San Francisquito Creek. (Previous Program L-72) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L72: Develop a strategy to enhance gateway sites with special landscaping, art, public spaces, and/or public buildings. Emphasize the creek bridges and riparian settings at the entrances to the City over Adobe Creek and San Francisquito Creek. (Also see T-41 & T-42) L2.9 POLICY Allow all City s infrastructure improvements to serve all areas of the City fairly, address the most urgent present needs, and accommodate future growth. (New Policy) L2.9.1 PROGRAM Support the development of an Infrastructure Master Plan that projects the future needs of streets, underground utilities, and all City assets. (New Program) L2.9.2 PROGRAM Continue the citywide program to underground overhead utility wires. Minimize the impacts of undergrounding on street tree root systems and planting areas. (Previous Program L-80) (No Change) L2.9.3 PROGRAM Encourage the use of compact and well-designed utility elements, such as transformers, switching devices, and back flow preventers. Place these elements in locations that will minimize their impact. (Previous Program L-81) (No Change) L2.9.4 PROGRAM Review wireless communication facilities in a manner that reduces visual impacts consistent with the requirements of the zoning code. (New Program) L2.9.5 PROGRAM Evaluate City properties where combinations of wireless facilities can be located. (New Program) L2.9.6 PROGRAM Facilitate community outreach and education on wireless communication by working with the wireless companies and staying abreast of new technologies and regulations. (New Program) L2.9.7 PROGRAM Encourage public participation in the City s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) planning process to obtain public input on the City s infrastructure priorities. (New Program) L PROGRAM Support the findings of the City s Infrastructure Blue Ribbon Committee and its emphasis for rebuilding our civic spaces. (New Program) L2.10 POLICY Design public infrastructure, including paving, signs, and utility structures, to meet high-quality urban design standards. Mitigate elements of existing Draft Comprehensive Plan 25

26 infrastructure that are unsightly or visually disruptive. (Previous Policy L-79) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L79: Design public infrastructure, including paving, signs, utility structures, parking garages and parking lots to meet high quality urban design standards. Look for opportunities to use art and artists in the design of public infrastructure. Remove or mitigate elements of existing infrastructure that are unsightly or visually disruptive. L2.11 POLICY Enhance the appearance, safety and walkability of sidewalks and streets in all neighborhoods through proactive repair and cleaning programs. Employ a variety of paving materials and landscaping to improve both appearance and safety. (Previous Policy L-22) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L22: Enhance the appearance of streets and sidewalks within all Centers through an aggressive maintenance, repair and cleaning program; street improvements; and the use of a variety of paving materials and landscaping. L PROGRAM Identify priority street improvements that would make a substantial contribution to the quality of neighborhoods including widening of sidewalks, narrowing travel lanes, creating medians, restriping to allow diagonal parking, and/or planting street trees. (Previous Program L-18) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L18: Identify priority street improvements that would make a substantial contribution to the character of Centers, including widening sidewalks, narrowing travel lanes, creating medians, restriping to allow diagonal parking, and/or planting street trees. L2.12 POLICY Encourage maximum use of Neighborhood Centers by ensuring that the publicly maintained areas are clean, well-lit, and attractively landscaped. (Previous Policy L-38) (No Change) L PROGRAM Provide clean and accessible restrooms throughout the City for public use during normal business hours through public/private cooperation. (Previous Program L-17) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L17: Through public/private cooperation, provide obvious, clean, and accessible restrooms available for use during normal business hours. L2.13 POLICY Employ small-scale urban design elements to stimulate economic growth and provide a sense of identity in commercial districts. Include design elements like centrally located open spaces, spirited building entrances, storefronts with indoor-outdoor connections, balconies, bay windows and details in buildings that provide a human scale and an overview of the street. (Previous Policy L-21 & Policy L-49) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L21: Provide all Centers with centrally located gathering spaces that create a sense of identity and encourage economic revitalization. Encourage public amenities such as benches, street trees, kiosks, restrooms and public art. Draft Comprehensive Plan 26

27 PREVIOUS POLICY L49: Design buildings to revitalize streets and public spaces and to enhance a sense of community and personal safety. Provide an ordered variety of entries, porches, windows, bays and balconies along public ways where it is consistent with neighborhood character; avoid blank or solid walls at street level; and include human-scale details and massing. L2.14 POLICY Design and maintain street frontages that contribute to walkability and to retail vitality in all commercial districts. (Previous Policy L-20) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L20: Encourage street frontages that contribute to retail vitality in all Centers. Reinforce street corners with buildings that come up to the sidewalk or that form corner plazas. L PROGRAM Study the feasibility of using public and private funds to provide and maintain landscaping and public spaces such as parks, plazas, and sidewalks within commercial areas. (Previous Program L-16) (No Change) L2.15 POLICY Preserve and enhance public gathering spaces within walking distance of residential neighborhoods. Ensure that each residential neighborhood has such spaces. (Previous Policy L-15) (No Change) L2.16 POLICY Encourage small-scale local-serving retail services, such as small cafes, delicatessens, and coffee carts in residential areas and centers of neighborhood activity. (Combined Previous Policy L-63 & L-16) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L63: Encourage small-scale local-serving retail services, such as small cafes, delicatessens, and coffee carts, in Civic Centers. PREVIOUS POLICY L16: Consider siting small neighborhood-serving retail facilities in existing or new residential areas. L2.17 POLICY Treat residential streets as both public resources and neighborhood amenities. Provide continuous sidewalks, healthy street trees, benches and other amenities that favor pedestrians. (Previous Policy L-17) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L17: Treat residential streets as both public ways and neighborhood amenities. Provide continuous sidewalks, healthy street trees, benches, and other amenities that favor pedestrians. DOWNTOWN PUBLIC SPACES L2.18 POLICY Ensure that University Avenue/Downtown is pedestrian-friendly and supports bicycle and pedestrian facilities improvements as included in the 2012 Bicycle Pedestrian Transportation Plan. Use public art and other amenities to create an environment that is inviting to pedestrians. (Previous Policy L-24) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 27

28 PREVIOUS POLICY L24: Ensure that University Avenue/Downtown is pedestrian-friendly and supports bicycle use. Use public art and other amenities to create an environment that is inviting to pedestrians. L PROGRAM Continue to implement the Downtown Urban Design Guidelines when reviewing land use applications within the Downtown area. (Previous Program L-19) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L19: Support implementation of the Downtown Urban Design Guide. L PROGRAM Consider implementation of urban design improvements to the University Avenue/Downtown area to benefit the public by modernizing sidewalk paving with sustainable materials, addressing the pedestrian-bicycle interface and designing safer and distinct intersections. (Previous Program L-21) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L21: Improve the University Avenue/Downtown area by adding landscaping and bicycle parking and encouraging large development projects to benefit the public by incorporating public art. MIXED USE GUIDELINES L2.19 POLICY Encourage new residential, commercial and mixed-use development around transit stations, locations with bicycle and pedestrian connectivity, neighborhood-serving retail, and city services to allow residents and employees to meet daily needs without the use of the private automobile. Encourage such development to maximize allowed densities and intensities to take advantage of these locations. (New Policy) L PROGRAM Continue to review and improve design criteria included in the Zoning Ordinance for all mixed use designations. Review for concepts including orienting new and renovated buildings to take advantage of nearby services, encouraging rear parking or underground parking, and providing street-facing windows and entries.(previous Program L-10) (Program split ) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L10: Create and apply the following four new Mixed Use zoning standards: A Live/Work designation that permits individuals to live on the same site where they work by allowing housing and other uses such as office, retail, and light industrial to co-exist in the same building space; and Retail/ Office, Residential/Retail, and Residential/Office designations that permit a mix of uses on the same site or nearby sites. Develop design standards for all mixed use designations providing for buildings with one to three stories, rear parking or underground parking, street-facing windows and entries, and zero setback along the street, except that front gardens may be provided for ground floor residential uses. L PROGRAM Encourage greater use of allowed density within zoning regulations through smaller housing units near multimodal transit stations to take advantage of transit availability. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 28

29 L2.20 POLICY Promote increased compatibility, interdependence, and support between commercial and mixed-use centers and the surrounding residential neighborhoods. (Previous Policy L-11) (No Change) PUBLIC FACILITIES DESIGN GUIDELINES L2.21 POLICY Seek potential new sites for art and cultural facilities, open space and community gardens especially in areas that lack these land uses. Allow pedestrian and bicycle accessibility to these resources, for all developments. (Previous Policy L- 64) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L64: Seek potential new sites for art and cultural facilities, public spaces, open space, and community gardens that encourage and support pedestrian and bicycle travel and person-to-person contact, particularly in neighborhoods that lack these amenities. L PROGRAM Provide comfortable seating areas and plazas with places for public art adjacent to library and community center entrances. (Previous Policy L-62) (Policy Changed to Program) (No Change) L2.22 POLICY Support public art as a significant public amenity in new development projects. (Previous Policy L-73) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L73: Consider public art and cultural facilities as a public benefit in connection with new development projects. Consider incentives for including public art in large development projects. L PROGRAM Celebrate the spirit of Palo Alto by using art to improve and identify public spaces. (Previous Policy L-74) (Policy changed to Program) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L74: Use the work of artists, craftspeople, architects, and landscape architects in the design and improvement of public spaces. L2.23 POLICY Promote the public use of community and cultural centers, libraries, local schools, parks, and other community facilities as neighborhood facilities. Ensure that these public facilities are inviting and safe places with the ability to support a variety of community services during both daytime and evening hours. (Previous Policy L-61) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L61: Promote the use of community and cultural centers, libraries, local schools, parks, and other community facilities as gathering places. Ensure that they are inviting and safe places that can deliver a variety of community services during both daytime and evening hours. L PROGRAM Work with Palo Alto Unified School District to assess and inform citizens on plans for future use of school sites, including providing public gathering places for neighborhoods lacking sufficient public space. (Previous Program L68) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 29

30 PREVIOUS PROGRAM L68: To help satisfy present and future community use needs, coordinate with the School District to educate the public about and to plan for the future use of school sites, including providing public gathering places for neighborhoods lacking sufficient public space. L PROGRAM Strengthen the role of neighborhood parks as centers of neighborhood activity by refurbishing neighborhood parks, expanding the range of active and passive recreational uses, through landscaping, constructing new trails, and adding other park amenities. (Previous Program L70) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L70: Study the potential for landscaping or park furniture that would promote neighborhood parks as outdoor gathering places and centers of neighborhood activity. L2.24 POLICY Encourage religious and private institutions to provide facilities that promote a sense of community and are compatible with the surrounding neighborhood. (Previous Policy L-65) (No Change) GUIDING PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT L3 GOAL GUIDE GROWTH, CHANGE AND PRESERVATION OF RESIDENTIAL AND BUSINESS AREAS THROUGH PLANNING POLICIES THAT SUSTAIN THEIR UNIQUE CHARACTER. CITYWIDE RESIDENTIAL GUIDELINES L3.1 POLICY Maintain Palo Alto s varied residential neighborhoods while sustaining the vitality of its commercial areas and public facilities. (Previous Policy L-4) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L4: Maintain Palo Alto s varied residential neighborhoods while sustaining the vitality of its commercial areas and public facilities. Use the Zoning Ordinance as a tool to enhance Palo Alto s desirable qualities. L3.2 POLICY Avoid abrupt changes in scale and density between residential and nonresidential areas and between residential areas of different densities. (Previous Policy L-6) (Policy Split) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L6: Where possible, avoid abrupt changes in scale and density between residential and non-residential areas and between residential areas of different densities. To promote compatibility and gradual transitions between land uses, place zoning district boundaries at mid-block locations rather than along streets wherever possible. L3.2.1 PROGRAM Continue to implement the zoning regulations to promote gradual transitions in the scale of development where residential districts abut more intense uses. (Previous Program L- 4) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 30

31 PREVIOUS PROGRAM L4: Review and change zoning regulations to promote gradual transitions in the scale of development where residential districts abut more intense uses. L3.3 POLICY Preserve the character of residential neighborhoods by encouraging new or remodeled structures to be compatible with the neighborhood and adjacent structures. (Previous Policy L-12) (No Change) L3.3.1 PROGRAM Use Zoning and the Home Improvement Exception process to create incentives or eliminate obstacles to remodeling houses with features that are compatible with neighborhood character, and adds street life and vitality. (Previous Program L-12) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L12: Where compatible with neighborhood character, use Zoning and the Home Improvement Exception Process to create incentives or eliminate obstacles to remodeling houses with features that add street life and vitality. L3.4 POLICY Encourage an open network of streets and sidewalks connecting each neighborhood to adjacent uses and the City as a whole. Limit the use of street facing fences that obscure the uniqueness of each neighborhood. (Previous Program L-52) (Program changed to Policy) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L52: Discourage the use of fences that obscure the view of houses. L3.5 POLICY Design and arrange new multifamily buildings, including entries and outdoor spaces, so that each unit has a clear relationship to a public street. (Previous Policy L-14) (No Change) L3.6 POLICY Encourage alternative types of housing as recommended in the Housing Element to provide more diverse housing opportunities including expanded development of below market rate (BMR) units. (Previous PolicyL-13) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L13: Evaluate alternative types of housing that increase density and provide more diverse housing opportunities. L3.6.1 PROGRAM Continue applying zoning standards for Village Residential housing prototypes and ensure that such housing is compatible with single family neighborhoods and other areas where it may be permitted. (Previous Program L-13) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L13: Create and apply zoning standards for Village Residential housing prototypes. Develop design guidelines for duplexes, townhouses, courtyard housing, second units, and small lot single family homes that ensure that such housing is compatible with single family neighborhoods and other areas where it may be permitted. L3.6.2 PROGRAM Apply zoning standards for Transit-Oriented Residential housing prototypes, including consideration of minimum density standards and maximum unit size. Develop design guidelines ensuring that such housing is compatible with the transit centers where it may be permitted. (Previous Program L-14) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 31

32 PREVIOUS PROGRAM L14: Create and apply zoning standards for Transit-Oriented Residential housing prototypes, including consideration of minimum density standards. Develop design guidelines that ensure that such housing is compatible with the University Avenue/Downtown and California Avenue centers where it may be permitted. L3.6.3 PROGRAM Study creating density bonuses and impact fee adjustments for exceptionally sustainable housing developments. (New Program) L3.6.4 PROGRAM Revise zoning designations to encourage medium-density housing (20 per acre) within or near commercial activities to support more a vital mix of commercial activities. (Previous Program L-38) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L38: Revise land use and zoning designations as needed to encourage medium-density housing (20 to 25 units per acre) within or near Neighborhood Centers served by public transportation to support a more vital mix of commercial activities GUIDELINES FOR NEIGHBORHOOD CENTERS AND EMPLOYMENT DISTRICTS L3.7 POLICY Enhance the citywide network of Neighborhood Centers, and Employment Districts, and endeavor to integrate these areas with the City s and the region s transit and street system. (Previous Policy L-10) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L10: Maintain a citywide structure of Residential Neighborhoods, Centers, and Employment Districts. Integrate these areas with the City s and the region s transit and street system. L3.8 POLICY Encourage private development -within Employment Districts to support the use of transit, pedestrian and bicycle travel to reduce the number of auto trips for daily errands. (Previous Policy L-42) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L42: Encourage Employment Districts to develop in a way that encourages transit, pedestrian and bicycle travel and reduces the number of auto trips for daily errands. L3.9 POLICY Improve pedestrian and bicycle-oriented commercial activity within Neighborhood Centers and Employment Districts, including building pedestrian paths and improving bike connectivity. (Previous Policy L-39 & Policy L-43) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L39: Facilitate opportunities to improve pedestrian-oriented commercial activity within Neighborhood Centers. PREVIOUS POLICY L43: Provide sidewalks, pedestrian paths, and connections to the citywide bikeway system within Employment Districts. Pursue opportunities to build sidewalks and paths in renovation and expansion projects. Draft Comprehensive Plan 32

33 L3.10 POLICY Revitalize Neighborhood Centers and Employment Districts in a manner that provides scale, architectural character and open space connections to surrounding neighborhoods. (Previous Policy L-18) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L18: Encourage the upgrading and revitalization of selected Centers in a manner that is compatible with the character of surrounding neighborhoods. L3.11 POLICY Maintain the scale and local-serving focus of Palo Alto s Neighborhood Centers. Support their continued improvement and vitality. (Previous Policy L-37) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L37: Maintain the scale and local-serving focus of Palo Alto s four Neighborhood Centers. Support their continued improvement and vitality. L PROGRAM Introduce measures to counteract the loss of retail activities in Palo Alto s Neighborhood Centers. (New Program) L PROGRAM Evaluate current commercial zonings to determine if they support the types of uses and scale of buildings considered appropriate in Neighborhood Centers. (Previous Program L-36) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L36: Evaluate current zoning to determine if it supports the types of uses and scale of buildings considered appropriate in Neighborhood Centers. L PROGRAM At the direction of the City Council, allow property owners within Neighborhood Centers to work with city staff on the preparation of master plans, with the participation of local businesses, neighboring property owners and nearby residents. (Previous Program L-37) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L37: Encourage property owners within Neighborhood Centers to prepare master plans, with the participation of local businesses, property owners and nearby residents. L3.12 POLICY Enhance and maintain the character of the South of Forest Area (SOFA) as a mixed-use area. (Previous Policy L-25) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L25: Enhance the character of the South of Forest Area (SOFA) as a mixed use area. L PROGRAM Continue to implement the SOFA Coordinated Area Plan. (Previous Program L- 22) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L22: Prepare a Coordinated Area Plan for the SOFA and Palo Alto Medical Foundation (PAMF) site. L3.13 POLICY Maintain Town & Country Village as an attractive community-serving retail center. Retain the scale and retail mix of Town & Country Village. Guide future Draft Comprehensive Plan 33

34 development at this site in a manner that preserves its architectural character and existing amenities. (Previous Policy L-32) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L32: Maintain Town and Country Village as an attractive community-serving retail center. Future development at this site should preserve its existing amenities, pedestrian scale, and architectural character. L PROGRAM Enhance Town & Country Village s pedestrian scale by planting additional oak trees and improving its pedestrian, bicycle, and auto circulation. (Previous Policy L-34) (Policy changed to Program) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L34: Encourage improvement of pedestrian and auto circulation and landscaping improvements, including maintenance of existing oak trees and planting additional oak trees. L PROGRAM Monitor traffic and pedestrian needs as the Town and Country Village shopping center use intensifies. (New Program) L3.14 POLICY Establish the South El Camino Real area as a well-designed, compact, vital, Multineighborhood Center with diverse uses, a mix of one-, two-, and three-story buildings, and a network of pedestrian-oriented streets and ways. (Previous Policy L-35) (No Change) L PROGRAM (Edited) Prepare a South El Camino Real Concept Area Plan. (Previous Program L-32) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L32: Prepare a Coordinated Area Plan for the South El Camino Real area. Use the land use map from the Community Design Workshop as a starting point for preparing this Plan. L PROGRAM Update the South El Camino Real Design Guidelines. (New Program) L PROGRAM Incorporate design elements to make South El Camino Real more pedestrianfriendly, including redesigning the street, wider sidewalks through greater setbacks, safe pedestrian crossings at key intersections, street trees, and streetscape improvements. (Previous Program L-33) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L33: Study ways to make South El Camino Real more pedestrian-friendly, including redesigning the street to provide wider sidewalks, safe pedestrian crossings at key intersections, street trees, and streetscape improvements. L PROGRAM Improve connections across El Camino Real to bring the Ventura and Barron Park neighborhoods together and to improve linkages to local schools and parks. (Previous Program L-34) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L34: Provide better connections across El Camino Real to bring the Ventura and Barron Park neighborhoods together and to improve linkages to local schools and parks. Draft Comprehensive Plan 34

35 L PROGRAM Consider Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority s (VTA) Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) program when updating the Urban Design Guidelines for South El Camino Real. (New Program) L3.15 POLICY Improve safety and minimize noise, vibrations and visual impacts on adjoining neighborhoods, public facilities, and schools by promoting the City s preferred vertical alignment for fixed rail below grade in Cal train corridor for Palo Alto. (New Policy) L3.15 POLICY Encourage a variety of retail, and office uses on shallow parcels along South El Camino Real, subject to adequate buffering from adjacent residential uses. (Previous Policy L-36) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L36: Allow a full range of office and retail uses on shallow parcels along South El Camino Real, subject to adequate buffering from adjacent residential uses. L PROGRAM Study the expansion of the Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) program as used in the Downtown as a tool to encourage redevelopment and/or community-serving amenities along South El Camino Real. (Previous Program L-35) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L35: Consider Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) as a tool to encourage redevelopment and/or community-serving amenities along South El Camino Real. L3.16 POLICY Revitalize Midtown as an attractive, compact Neighborhood Center with diverse local-serving uses. Encourage a variety of neighborhood retail shops and services and the retention of a Midtown grocery store. (Previous Policy L-40) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L40: Revitalize Midtown as an attractive, compact Neighborhood Center with diverse local-serving uses, a mix of one- and two-story buildings, adequate parking, and a network of pedestrian-oriented streets, ways and gathering places. Encourage retention of Midtown s grocery stores and encourage a variety of neighborhood retail shops and services. L PROGRAM Prepare an area plan for Midtown with the participation of property owners, local businesses, and nearby residents. Address in the plan efficient parking, pedestrian and bicycle connectivity and safety along Middlefield Road. The Plan should provide coherent urban design guidelines for the area including provision of adequate open space. (Previous Program L-39) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L39: Prepare a plan for Midtown with the participation of property owners, local businesses, and nearby residents. Consider the Midtown Economic Study and the land use concepts identified during the 1994 Community Design Workshop in developing the plan. The plan should have a special emphasis on public improvements, including parking, street furniture and signage. Draft Comprehensive Plan 35

36 L PROGRAM Make improvements to Middlefield Road in Midtown that slow traffic, encourage commercial vitality, make the street more pedestrian and bicycle-friendly, and unify the northeast and southwest sides of the commercial area. (Previous Program L-40) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L40: Make improvements to Middlefield Road in Midtown that slow traffic, encourage commercial vitality, make the street more pedestrian-friendly, and unify the northeast and southwest sides of the commercial area, with consideration given to traffic impacts on the residential neighborhood. L3.17 POLICY Maintain existing residential uses within the Midtown area and encourage additional mixed use development. (Previous Policy L-41) (No Change) EAST MEADOW CIRCLE CONCEPT AREA PLAN: This Plan was accepted by City Council in March 2012 L3.18 POLICY Encourage retention and enhancement of research and development (R&D), office, light industrial and commercial development consistent with the East Meadow Circle Concept Plan (Appendix X); ensure that new and existing development is compatible and includes appropriate transitions to nearby singleand multi-family development. (New Policy) L PROGRAM Update the Zoning Ordinance to include an Overlay Zone with design guidelines for new development for the East Meadow Circle/Fabian Way Area. The Overlay Zone should be consistent with the Concept Plan for the area, supporting both the area s business environment and compatibility with neighboring single- and multi-family development. (New Program) CALIFORNIA AVENUE CONCEPT AREA PLAN: This Plan is currently under review PRESERVING HISTORIC AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES L4 GOAL RECOGNIZE THE VALUE AND IMPORTANCE OF ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES, HISTORIC BUILDINGS AND PLACES, AND THEIR IMPORTANCE TO A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT IN PALO ALTO. ENCOURAGE PRESERVATION L4.1 POLICY Continue to support public and private upkeep and preservation of structures and properties that have historic merit, including City-owned properties, private residences and private commercial properties listed in the Historic Inventory. (Previous Policy L-51) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 36

37 PREVIOUS POLICY L51: Encourage public and private upkeep and preservation of resources that have historic merit, including residences listed in the Historic Inventory. L4.1.1 PROGRAM Develop incentives for the retention and rehabilitation of buildings with historic merit and adaptive reuse of older buildings in all zones. (Previous Policy L-57)(Policy changed to Program) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L57: Develop incentives for the retention and rehabilitation of buildings with historic merit in all zones. L4.2 POLICY Encourage the preservation of significant historic resources owned by the City of Palo Alto. Allow such resources to be altered to meet contemporary needs, provided that all City historic preservations standards are satisfied. (Previous Policy L-52) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L52: Encourage the preservation of significant historic resources owned by the. Allow such resources to be altered to meet contemporary needs, provided that the preservations standards adopted by the City Council are satisfied. L4.3 POLICY Preserve historic components of deconstructed buildings and prominently reuse them in the replacement new development. Prevent demolition of historic structures. (Previous Program L-57) (Program changed to Policy) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L57: Encourage salvage of discarded historic building materials for re-use by the community. L4.3.1 PROGRAM Require design review findings for proposed exterior alterations or additions to designated Historic Landmarks, buildings, and require that the proposed changes are in compliance with the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation. (Previous Program L58) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L57: For proposed exterior alterations or additions to designated Historic Landmarks, buildings require design review findings that the proposed changes are in compliance with the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation. L4.3.2 PROGRAM Investigate relocation as a preservation strategy when consistent with State and National Standards regarding the relocation of historic resources. (Previous Policy L-55 (Policy changed to Program) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L55: Relocation may be considered as a preservation strategy when consistent with State and National Standards regarding the relocation of historic resources. L4.3.3 PROGRAM Consider allowing compatible nonconforming uses within historic buildings. (Previous Program L61) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L61: Allow nonconforming uses for the life of historic buildings. Draft Comprehensive Plan 37

38 L4.4 POLICY Actively enforce state and federal historic design guidelines. Seek state and federal funding for the preservation of buildings of historical merit and consider public/private partnerships for capital and program improvements. (Previous Policy L-53) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L53: Actively seek state and federal funding for the preservation of buildings of historical merit and consider public/private partnerships for capital and program improvements. L4.4.1 PROGRAM Support the goals and objectives of the Statewide Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan for California. (Previous Policy L-54) (Policy changed to Program)(No Change) L4.4.2 PROGRAM Encourage and assist owners of historically significant buildings in finding ways to adapt and restore these buildings, including participation in state and federal tax relief programs. (Previous Program L64) (No Change) L4.4.3 PROGRAM Periodically update the Inventory of Historic Resources and the Historic Preservation Ordinance to ensure their effectiveness in the maintenance and preservation of historic resources, particularly in the University Avenue/Downtown area. (Previous Program L- 54 & Program L-55) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L54: Review and update the City's Inventory of historic resources, including City-owned structures. PREVIOUS PROGRAM L55: Reassess the Historic Preservation Ordinance to ensure its effectiveness in the maintenance and preservation of historic resources, particularly in the University Avenue/Downtown area. L4.4.4 PROGRAM Encourage rehabilitation of historic buildings through zoning and other City regulations. Require design review findings that the historic integrity of an historic building s exterior will be maintained. (Previous Program L59) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L59: Allow parking exemptions for historic buildings to encourage rehabilitation. Require design review findings that the historic integrity of the building exterior will be maintained. L4.4.5 PROGRAM Continue to use a TDR Ordinance to allow the transfer of development rights from designated buildings of historic significance in the Commercial Downtown (CD) zone to nonhistoric receiver sites in the CD zone. Planned Community (PC) zone properties in the Downtown also qualify for this program. (Previous Program L60) (No Change) L4.4.6 PROGRAM Streamline to the maximum extent feasible any future processes for design review of historic structures to eliminate unnecessary delay and uncertainty for the applicant and to encourage historic preservation. (Previous Program L63) (No Change) L4.4.7 PROGRAM Follow the procedures established in the State Public Resources Code for the protection of designated historic buildings damaged by earthquake or other natural disaster. (Previous Policy L-59) (Policy changed to Program) (No Change) Draft Comprehensive Plan 38

39 L4.4.8 PROGRAM Promote adaptive reuse of older buildings, particularly those used for retail uses. Continue to seek innovative approaches for applying current ordinances and codes, including the State Historic Building code for designated historic buildings. (Previous Policy L-58, Program L65 & Program L66) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L58: Promote adaptive reuse of old buildings. PREVIOUS PROGRAM L65: Seek additional innovative ways to apply current codes and ordinances to older buildings. Use the State Historic Building Code for designated historic buildings. PREVIOUS PROGRAM L66: Revise existing zoning and permit regulations as needed to minimize constraints to adaptive re-use, particularly in retail areas. L4.4.9 PROGRAM Maintain and strengthen the design review procedure for exterior remodeling or demolition of all historic resources. Discourage demolition of historic resources and Landmark resources. (Previous Program L56) (No Change) ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES L4.5 POLICY Protect Palo Alto s archaeological resources, including natural land formations, sacred sites, the historical landscape, historic habitats and remains of settlements here before the founding of Palo Alto in the nineteenth century (Previous Policy L-60) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L60: Protect Palo Alto s archaeological resources. L4.6 POLICY Require that a records search of the California Historical Resources Information System be conducted and reviewed by a cultural resources professional for proposed new development to determine whether the site contains known prehistoric or historic cultural resources and to determine the potential presence of as-yet-undiscovered cultural resources. (New Policy) L4.7 POLICY Require that areas found to contain significant prehistoric artifacts be examined by a qualified consulting archaeologist for appropriate protection and preservation. (New Policy) L4.8 POLICY Require that if cultural resources, including archaeological or paleontological resources, are uncovered during grading or other on-site excavation activities, construction shall stop until appropriate mitigation is determined and implemented. (New Policy) L4.9 POLICY Require that any archaeological or paleontological resources on a development project site be either preserved at their location or adequately documented as a condition of removal. When a development project has sufficient flexibility, Draft Comprehensive Plan 39

40 avoidance and preservation of the resource shall be the primary mitigation measure, unless the City identifies a superior mitigation. If resources are documented, their preservation should be coordinated with descendants and/or stakeholder groups, as warranted. (New Policy) L4.10 POLICY Continue to consult with tribes as required by California Government Code Section In doing so, use appropriate procedures to accommodate tribal concerns when a tribe has a religious prohibition against revealing precise information about the location or previous practice at a particular sacred site. (New Policy) L4.11 POLICY Treat with respect and dignity any human remains discovered during implementation of public and private projects within the city. (New Policy) L4.12 POLICY Where applicable, support access to and ceremonial use by Native American religious practitioners of Native American sacred sites located in Palo Alto. (New Policy) L PROGRAM Using the archaeological sensitivity map in Figure L-8 as a guide, continue to assess the need for archaeological surveys and mitigation plans on a project-by-project basis, consistent with the California Environmental Quality Act and the National Historic Preservation Act. (Previous Program L67)(Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L67: Using the archaeological sensitivity map in the Comprehensive Plan as a guide, continue to assess the need for archaeological surveys and mitigation plans on a project by project basis, consistent with the California Environmental Quality Act and the National Historic Preservation Act. REGIONAL LAND USE L5 GOAL ENCOURAGE DEVELOPMENT IN PALO ALTO TO PROVIDE PUBLIC BENEFITS AND EMPLOYMENT TO NEIGHBORING CITIES AND COUNTIES, WHILE IMPROVING LAND USES, STREETS, INFRASTRUCTURE AND CHARACTER OF THE CITY. REGIONAL LAND USE L5.1 POLICY Evaluate changes in land use in the context of regional needs, overall City welfare and objectives, as well as the desires of surrounding neighborhoods. (Previous Policy L-7) (No Change) L5.2 POLICY Participate in regional strategies to address the interaction of jobs, housing balance and transportation issues. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 40

41 L PROGRAM Continue to actively participate in the development of the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) Sustainable Communities Strategy for the region. (New Program) L5.3 POLICY Locate new regional-serving facilities in Palo Alto near public transit and fixed rail with frequent service. (New Policy) L5.4 POLICY Incorporate greenhouse gas emission reduction measures into regional land use projects to meet the goals of the City s Climate Protection Plan (New Policy) STANFORD LAND USE L5.5 POLICY Maintain an active cooperative working relationship with Santa Clara County and Stanford University regarding land use issues. (Previous Policy L-2) (No Change) L5.5.1 PROGRAM For unincorporated Stanford owned lands, maintain and update as appropriate the 1985 Land Use Policies Agreement that sets forth the land use policies of the City, Santa Clara County and Stanford University. (Previous Program L-1)(Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L01: Maintain and update as appropriate the 1985 Land Use Policies at sets forth the land use policies of the City, Santa Clara County and Stanford University with regard to Stanford unincorporated lands. L5.5.2 PROGRAM Monitor Stanford development proposals and traffic conditions within the Sand Hill Road Corridor and annually report to the City Council. (Previous Program L- 2A) (No Change) Stanford Shopping Center L5.6 POLICY Continue to support the Stanford Shopping Center s role as one of the Bay Area s premiere regional shopping centers. Encourage any new development at the Center to occur through infill, including development on existing surface parking lots. (Previous Policy L-26) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L26: Maintain Stanford Shopping Center as one of the Bay Area s premiere regional shopping centers. Encourage any new development at the Center to occur through infill, including development on existing surface parking lots. L5.6.1 PROGRAM Identify strategies to reuse surface parking lots and improve pedestrian and transit connections at Stanford Shopping Center. (Previous Program L-23)(No Change) L5.6.2 PROGRAM Use the Palo Alto Municipal Code to determine the developmental cap based upon gross leasable floor area for the Stanford Shopping Center. (Previous Program L-24) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 41

42 PREVIOUS PROGRAM L24: Maintain a Stanford Shopping Center development cap of 80,000 square feet of additional development beyond that existing on June 14, Stanford Research Park L5.7 POLICY Develop the Stanford Research Park as a compact employment center served by a variety of transportation modes. (Previous Policy L44) (No Change) L5.7.1 PROGRAM Create and apply zoning standards and sustainable design guidelines for Research Park uses, commercial hotels and conference centers. Continue to encourage research and development as the primary use for the Stanford Research Park. (Previous Program L-45) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L45: Create and apply zoning standards and design guidelines for commercial hotels and conference centers. Stanford University Medical Center L5.8 POLICY Review Stanford Medical Center development proposals to ensure that the Center is developed in a manner that recognizes the citywide goal of compact, pedestrian-oriented development as well as the functional needs of the Medical Center. (Previous Policy L45) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L45: Develop Stanford Medical Center in a manner that recognizes the citywide goal of compact, pedestrian-oriented development as well as the functional needs of the Medical Center. L5.9 POLICY Continue to monitor the uses approved for the Stanford University Medical Center Facilities Renewal and Replacement Project and require additional use permit conditions if the adopted conditions are deemed insufficient. (New Policy) DOWNTOWN PALO ALTO L5.10 POLICY Balance public investments in infrastructure and technology to support a robust economy and to enhance Downtown Palo Alto s status as a regional economic center. (New Policy) L5.11 POLICY Encourage the development of a diverse business mix, serving both local and regional markets. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 42

43 L5.12 POLICY Manage new non-residential development in the Downtown area to better balance traffic and parking impacts in the surrounding neighborhoods. (New Policy) L PROGRAM Monitor new non-residential development in the Downtown area and limit it to an additional 350,000 square feet, or 10 percent above the amount of development existing or approved as of May Reevaluate this limit when non-residential development approvals reach 235,000 square feet of floor area. (Previous Program-L8) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L8: Limit new non-residential development in the Downtown area to 350,000 square feet, or 10 percent above the amount of development existing or approved as of May Reevaluate this limit when non-residential development approvals reach 235,000 square feet of floor area. L PROGRAM Continue to monitor development, including the effectiveness of the ground floor retail requirement in the University/Downtown area. Update the City Council on an annual basis. (Previous Program L-9) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L9: Continue to monitor development, including the effectiveness of the ground floor retail requirement, in the University Avenue/Downtown area. Keep the Planning Commission and City Council advised of the findings on an annual basis. L5.13 POLICY Promote the preservation of significant historic buildings to reinforce the scale and character of University Avenue/Downtown. (Previous Policy L-56) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L56: To reinforce the scale and character of University Avenue/Downtown, promote the preservation of significant historic buildings. L5.14 POLICY Maintain and enhance the University Avenue/Downtown area as the central business district of the City, with a mix of commercial, civic, cultural, recreational and residential uses. Promote quality design that recognizes the regional and historical importance of the area and reinforces its pedestrian character. (Previous Policy L23) (No Change) L PROGRAM Study how the City can facilitate reuse of existing downtown buildings. (Previous Program-L-20) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L20: Facilitate reuse of existing buildings. L5.15 POLICY Pursue redevelopment of the University Avenue Multi-modal Transit Station area to strengthen the link between University Avenue/Downtown and the Stanford Shopping Center. (Previous Policy L-27) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L27: Pursue redevelopment of the University Avenue Multi-modal Transit Station area to establish a link between University Avenue/Downtown and the Stanford Shopping Center. L PROGRAM Develop a Downtown Concept Area Plan to prepare a vision for the Draft Comprehensive Plan 43

44 Downtown/University Avenue Area. (Previous Program L-25)(Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L25: Prepare a Coordinated Area Plan for the University Avenue Multimodal Transit Station Area. (See Also T-14) AIRPORT LAND USE L5.16 POLICY Continue to implement the Santa Clara County Comprehensive Land Use Plan for the Palo Alto Airport (PAO CLUP) (New Policy) L516.1 PROGRAM Review development proposals within the Airport Influence Area to ensure consistency with the guidelines of the Palo Alto Airport Comprehensive Land Use Plan, and when appropriate, refer development proposals to the Santa Clara County Airport Land Use Commission for review and comment. (Previous Program L-2B of CLUP) (No Change) BAYLANDS LAND USE L5.17 POLICY Continue to preserve and restore the Baylands as one of the most significant areas of native marsh vegetation and endangered species habitat on the San Francisco Bay shoreline, while recognizing the value of the existing diverse land use in the area. (New Policy) L PROGRAM Continue to implement the policies and programs of the updated Baylands Master Plan adopted in 2008 and the Baylands Design Guidelines. (New Program) L5.18 POLICY Retain undeveloped Baylands northeast of Highway 101 as open space. (Part of Previous Policy L-1) (Policy Split) PREVIOUS POLICY L1: Continue current City policy limiting future urban development to currently developed lands within the urban service area. The boundary of the urban service area is otherwise known as the urban growth boundary. Retain undeveloped land west of Foothill Expressway and Junipero Serra as open space, with allowances made for very low-intensity development consistent with the open space character of the area. Retain undeveloped Baylands northeast of Highway 101 as open space. Draft Comprehensive Plan 44

45 The Disposition Table The Disposition Table explains the status of each of the goals, policies and programs of the Comprehensive Plan elements. It shows the following: The corresponding new number of the policy/program; If there is no change in the policy/program; If the policy/program has been edited; If the policy/program has been completed; If the existing policy/program had a status change (i.e. either merged with another policy/program, or policy changed to a program or vice versa)and The existing Comprehensive Plan s goals, policies and program numbers. Draft Comprehensive Plan 45

46 LANDUSE ELEMENT UPDATE GOALS, POLICIES AND PROGRAMS DISPOSITION TABLE Landuse Element MOVED TO OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Landuse Element GOAL 1:A Well-designed, Compact City, Providing Residents and Visitors with Attractive Neighborhoods, Work Places, Shopping Districts, Public Facilities, and Open Spaces. Policy L-1: x x L1.2 & L1.6 & L5.18 Policy L- 2: x L5.5 Program L-1 x L5.5.1 Program L-2A x L5.5.2 Program L-2B x L Policy L- 3: x Combined with Policy L-69 Policy L- 4: x L3.1 Policy L- 5: x L2.3 Program L-3 x L2.3.2 Policy L- 6: x x L3.2 Program L-4 x L3.2.1 Program L-5 Repetitive Program L-6 Complete Policy L- 7: x L5.1 Policy L- 8 : x L1.3 Program L-7 x L1.3.1 Program L-8 x L Program L-9 x L Policy L- 9 : Repetitive Program L-10 x x L GOAL L-2:An Enhanced Sense of Community with Development Designed to Foster Public Life and Meet Citywide Needs Policy L- 10 : x L3.7 Policy L- 11 : x L2.20 GOAL L-3:Safe, Attractive Residential Neighborhoods, Each With Its Own Distinct Character and Within Walking Distance of Shopping, Services, Schools, and/or other Public Gathering Places. Policy L- 12 : x L3.3 L1.5 Program L-11 Complete Program L-12 x L3.3.1 Policy L- 13 : x L3.6 Program L-13 x L3.6.1 Program L-14 x L3.6.2 Policy L- 14 : x L3.5 Policy L- 15 : x L2.15 Policy L- 16 : x Combined with Policy L-63 L2.16 Policy L- 17 : x L2.17 GOAL L-4:Inviting, Pedestrian-scale Centers That Offer a Variety of Retail and Commercial Services and Provide Focal Points and Community Gathering Places for the City s Residential Neighborhoods and Employment Districts. Policy L- 18 : x L3.9 Program L-15 Repetitive Policy L- 19 : Repetitive Policy L- 20 : x L2.14 Policy L- 21 : x Combined with Policy L-49 Program L-16 x L Program L-17 x L Policy L- 22 : x L2.11 Program L-18 x L Policy L- 23 : x L5.14 Program L-19 x L Program L-20 x L Policy L- 24 : x L2.18 L2.13 Draft Comprehensive Plan 46

47 Landuse Element MOVED TO OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Landuse Element Program L-21 x L Policy L- 25 : x L3.12 Program L-22 x L Policy L- 26 : x L5.6 Program L-23 x L5.6.1 Program L-24 x L5.6.2 Policy L- 27 : x L5.15 Program L-25 Combined L Program L-26 x Program L-25 & 26) Policy L- 28 : Program L-27 Program L-28 Policy L- 29 : Program L-29 New Policies and Programs to be Added After the Completion of California Avenue Area Concept Plan Policy L- 30 : Policy L- 31 : Program L-30 Program L-31 Policy L- 32 : x L3.13 Policy L- 33 : Complete Policy L- 34 : x Changed to Program L Policy L- 35 : x L3.14 Program L-32 x x L Program L-33 x L Program L-34 x x L Policy L- 36 : x L3.15 Program L-35 x L Policy L- 37 : x L3.10 Program L-36 x L Program L-37 x L Policy L- 38: x L2.12 Policy L- 39 : x Combined with L-43 Policy Program L-38 x L3.6.4 Policy L- 40 : x L3.16 Program L-39 x x L Program L-40 x x L Moved to Program L-41 Transportation Element Policy L- 41 : x L3.17 Program L-42 Complete GOAL L-5:High Quality Employment Districts, Each With Their Own Distinctive Character and Each Contributing to the Character of the City as a Whole. L3.11 Policy L- 42 : x L3.8 Program L-43 Policy L- 43 : Repetitive x Combined with L-39 Policy Program L-44 Complete Policy L- 44 : x L5.7 Program L-45 x L5.7.1 Policy L- 45 : x L5.8 Program L-46 Complete Policy L- 46 : Policy L- 47 : Program L-47 New Policies and Programs to be Added After the Completion of East Meadow Area Concept Plan Complete GOAL L-6: Well-designed Buildings that Create (Promote) Coherent Development Patterns and Enhance City Streets and Public Spaces. Policy L- 48 : x L2.4 Program L-48 x L2.3.3 Draft Comprehensive Plan 47

48 Landuse Element MOVED TO OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Landuse Element Program L-49 x L2.3.1 Policy L- 49 : x Combined with Policy L-21 Program L-50 Complete Program L-51 Complete Program L-52 x Changed to Policy L3.4 Policy L- 50 : x L2.7 Program L-53 x Combined with Program L-62 L2.6.2 Policy L- 51 : x L4.1 Program L-54 x Combined with Program L-55 L4.4.3 Program L-55 x Combined with Program L-54 Program L-56 x L4.4.9 Program L-57 x Changed to Policy L4.3 Program L-58 x L4.3.1 Policy L- 52 : x L4.2 Policy L- 53 : x L4.4 Policy L- 54 : x Changed to Program L4.4.1 Policy L- 55 : x Changed to Program L4.3.2 Policy L- 56 : x L5.13 Program L-59 x L4.4.4 Program L-60 x L4.4.5 Policy L- 57 : x Changed to Program L4.1.1 Program L-61 x L4.3.3 Program L-62 GOAL L-7: Conservation and Preservation of Palo Alto s Historic Buildings, Sites, and Districts. x Combined with Program L-53 Program L-63 x L4.4.6 Program L-64 x L4.4.2 Policy L- 58 : x Combined with Program L-65 & L-66 L4.4.8 Policy L- 59 : x Changed to Program L4.4.7 Program L-65 Program L-66 x x Combined with Program L-58 Policy L- 60 : x L4.5 Program L-67 x L GOAL L-8: Attractive and Safe Civic and Cultural Facilities Provided in All Neighborhoods and Maintained and Used in Ways that Foster and Enrich Public Life. Policy L- 61 : x L2.23 Program L-68 x L Program L-69 Complete Program L-70 x L Policy L- 62 : x Changed to Program L Policy L- 63 : x Combined with Policy L-16 Policy L- 64 : x L2.21 Policy L- 65 : x L2.24 GOAL L-9: Attractive, Inviting Public Spaces and Streets that Enhance the Image and Character of the City. Draft Comprehensive Plan 48

49 Landuse Element MOVED TO OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Landuse Element Policy L- 66 : Policy L- 67 : Policy L- 68 : Moved to Transportation Element Moved to Transportation Element Moved to Natural Environment Element Policy L- 69 : x Combined with Policy L-3 Program L-71 x L1.5.1 Changed to Policy L- 70 : x L1.1.5 Program Policy L- 71 : x Combined with Policy L-72 Program L-72 x x L2.8.1 Policy L- 72 : x Combined with Policy L-71 Policy L- 73 : x L2.22 Policy L- 74 : Policy L- 75 : Program L-73 Program L-74 Policy L- 76 : Program L-75 Policy L- 77 : Complete Complete Complete x x x x Combined with Policy L-76 Combined with Policy L-75 Combined with Policy L-78 Changed to Program Changed to Program Changed to Program Program L-76 Complete Program L-77 Complete Program L-78 x L2.5.3 Policy L- 78 : x Combined with Policy L-77 Policy L- 79 : x L2.10 Program L-79 Complete Program L-80 x L2.9.2 Program L-81 x L2.9.3 L2.8 L L2.5.1 L2.5 Moved to other Elements=4 Completed, Repetitive & Taken out=32 No Change= 32 Reworded= 91 Split=5 Merged= 24 Status Change= 11 On Hold= 6 Total = 51 Policies and 61 Programs (112) Draft Comprehensive Plan 49

50 NEW GOALS(5), POLICIES (25) AND PROGRAMS (22) ADDED GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS L1 L1.1 L1.1.1 L2 L2.1 L3 L3.6.3 L1.1.2 L2.2 L L1.1.3 L2.6 L2.6.1 L L1.1.4 L2.9 L2.9.1 L L1.4 L2.9.4 L L1.7 L1.7.1 L2.9.5 L3.15 L2.9.6 L3.18 L L2.9.7 L2.9.8 L2.19 L L4 L4.6 L5 L5.2 L5.2.1 L4.7 L5.3 L4.8 L5.4 L4.9 L5.9 L4.10 L5.10 L4.11 L5.11 L4.12 L5.12 L5.16 L5.17 L Draft Comprehensive Plan 50

51 Policies and Programs Deleted from the Land Use and Community Design Element Policy/Program # Policy/Program Language Status GOAL L-1: L05 Program LOCAL LAND USE AND GROWTH MANAGEMENT A Well-designed, Compact City, Providing Residents and Visitors with Attractive Neighborhoods, Work Places, Shopping Districts, Public Facilities, and Open Spaces. Establish new performance and architectural standards that minimize negative impacts where land use transitions occur. Repetitive L06 Program L9 Policy GOAL L-2: GOAL L-3: L11 Program GOAL L-4: L15 Program L19 Policy L28 Policy L27 Program L28 Program L29 Policy L29 Program L30 Policy L31 Policy L30 Program Continue to implement the City's Neighborhood Commercial (CN) and Service Commercial (CS) zoning requirements to better address land use transitions. Enhance desirable characteristics in mixed use areas. Use the planning and zoning process to create opportunities for new mixed use development. FOSTERING A SENSE OF COMMUNITY An Enhanced Sense of Community with Development Designed to Foster Public Life and Meet Citywide Needs. RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS Safe, Attractive Residential Neighborhoods, Each With Its Own Distinct Character and Within Walking Distance of Shopping, Services, Schools, and/or other Public Gathering Places. Maintain and periodically review height and density limits to discourage single uses that are inappropriate in size and scale to the surrounding uses. CENTERS Inviting, Pedestrian-scale Centers That Offer a Variety of Retail and Commercial Services and Provide Focal Points and Community Gathering Places for the City s Residential Neighborhoods and Employment Districts. Establish a planning process for Centers that identifies the desired character of the area, its role within the City, the locations of public gathering spaces, appropriate land uses and building forms, and important street and pedestrian connections to surrounding Residential Neighborhoods. Encourage a mix of land uses in all Centers, including housing and an appropriate mix of small-scale local businesses. Maintain the existing scale, character, and function of the California Avenue business district as a shopping, service, and office center intermediate in function and scale between Downtown and the smaller neighborhood business areas. Create regulations for the California Avenue area that allow for the replacement or rehabilitation of smaller buildings while preventing buildings that are out of scale and character with the existing buildings. Work with merchants, property owners, and City representatives to create urban design guidelines for the California Avenue business district. Encourage residential and mixed use residential development in the California Avenue area. Revise zoning of the California Avenue business district to reduce the nonresidential development potential to levels comparable to other commercial areas in the City while retaining substantial residential development potential. Improve the transition between the California-Cambridge area and the single family residential neighborhood of Evergreen Park. Avoid abrupt changes in scale and density between the two areas. Develop the Cal-Ventura area as a well-designed mixed use district with diverse land uses, two- to three-story buildings, and a network of pedestrian oriented streets providing links to California Avenue. Prepare a Coordinated Area Plan for the Cal-Ventura area. Use the land use diagram from the Community Design Workshop as the starting point for preparing this plan. Complete Repetitive Complete Repetitive Repetitive Will be replaced with California Avenue Concept Area Plan Policies and Programs Draft Comprehensive Plan 51

52 Policy/Program # Policy/Program Language Status L31 Program L33 Policy L41 Program L42 Program GOALL-5: Establish the following unranked priorities for redevelopment within the Cal- Ventura area: Connect the Cal-Ventura area with the Multi-modal Transit Station and California Avenue. Provide new streets and pedestrian connections that complete the street grid and create a walkable neighborhood. Fry s Electronics site (300 Portage): Continued retail activity is anticipated for this site until A program should be developed for the future use of the site for mixed density multi- family housing and a park or other open space. Hewlett-Packard: Uses that are compatible with the surrounding area and a site plan that facilitates pedestrian use of Park Boulevard. North of Sheridan Avenue: Development of one or more of the City-owned parking lots with primarily residential uses, provided that public parking spaces are replaced. Park Boulevard: Streetscape improvements. In Town and Country Village, encourage housing development consistent with a vibrant business environment. Support bicycle and pedestrian trail improvements along a restored Matadero Creek within Hoover Park. Retain the existing housing along Colorado Avenue and consider increasing the density to allow townhouses, co-housing, and/or housing for the disabled. EMPLOYMENT DISTRICTS High Quality Employment Districts, Each With Their Own Distinctive Character and Each Contributing to the Character of the City as a Whole. Will be replaced with California Avenue Concept Area Plan Policies and Programs Complete Moved to Transportation Element Complete L43 Program Modify existing Zoning regulations and create incentives for employers to provide employee services in their existing building-for example office support services, restaurants, convenience stores, public gathering places, and child care facililities-to reduce the need for employees to drive to these services. Repetitive L44 Program Design the paths and sidewalks to be attractive and comfortable and consistent with the character of the area where they are located. Complete L46Program Work with Stanford to prepare an area plan for the Stanford Medical Center. Complete L46 Policy Maintain the East Bayshore and San Antonio Road/Bayshore Corridor areas as diverse business and light industrial districts. Will be replaced with East L47 Policy Consider the East Meadow Circle Area as a potential site for higher density housing that provides a transition between existing housing and nearby industrial development. Meadow Concept Area Plan Policies and Programs DESIGN OF BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC SPACES GOAL L-6: Well-designed Buildings that Create Coherent Development Patterns and Enhance City Streets and Public Spaces. L50 Program Undertake a comprehensive review of residential and commercial zoning requirements to identify additional architectural standards that should be incorporated to implement Complete Policy L-49. L51 Program Use illustrations and form code methods for simplifying the Zoning Ordinance and to promote well-designed buildings. Complete HISTORIC CHARACTER GOAL L7: Conservation and Preservation of Palo Alto s Historic Buildings, Sites, and Districts CITY USES GOAL L8: L69 Program GOAL L9: L66 Policy L67 Policy Attractive and Safe Civic and Cultural Facilities Provided in All Neighborhoods and Maintained and Used in Ways that Foster and Enrich Public Life. Enhance all entrances to Mitchell Park Community Center so that they are more inviting and facilitate public gatherings. PUBLIC WAYS Attractive, Inviting Public Spaces and Streets that Enhance the Image and Character of the City. Balance traffic circulation needs with the goal of creating walkable neighborhoods that are designed and oriented towards pedestrians. Integrate creeks and green spaces with the street and pedestrian/bicycle path system. Complete Moved to Transportation Element Moved to Transportation Element Draft Comprehensive Plan 52

53 Policy/Program # Policy/Program Language Status L68 Policy L73 Program L74Program L75 Program L76 Program L77 Program L79 Program Preserve the scenic qualities of Palo Alto roads and trails for motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and equestrians. Revise the Zoning Ordinance to require the location of parking lots behind buildings rather in front of them, under appropriate conditions. Modify zoning standards pertaining to parking lot layout and landscaping for land uses within Employment Districts. Consider Zoning Ordinance amendments for parking lot landscaping, including requiring a variety of drought-tolerant, relatively litter-free tree species capable of forming a 50 percent tree canopy within 10 to 15 years. Consider further amendments that would require existing nonconforming lots to come into compliance wherever possible. Evaluate parking requirements and actual parking needs for specific uses. Develop design criteria based on a standard somewhere between average and peak conditions. Revise parking requirements to encourage creative solutions such as valet parking, landscaped parking reserves, satellite parking, and others that minimize the use of open land for parking. Undertake a coordinated effort by the Public Works, Utilities, and Planning Departments to establish design standards for public infrastructure and examine the effectiveness of City street, sidewalk and street tree maintenance programs. Moved to Transportation Element Complete Complete Complete Complete Complete Complete Draft Comprehensive Plan 53

54 Draft Comprehensive Plan 54

55 Transportation Element Draft Comprehensive Plan 55

56 Draft Comprehensive Plan 56

57 Highlights of Change This Element will meet the State requirement for a Circulation Element of the Comprehensive Plan. The plan address the various aspects of circulation, including roadways, public transit, walking, bicycling, parking, special transportation needs, and aviation. New Vision Statement: Maintain and promote a sustainable network of safe, accessible and efficient transportation and parking solutions for all users and modes, while protecting and enhancing the quality of life in Palo Alto neighborhoods including alternative and innovative transportation practices and supporting regional transit facilities and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Proposed Element Structure The proposed element has eight goals while the existing element had ten. The format has been restructured, few goals have been merged and new topics have been introduced. The following is the new structure. T1-Sustainable Transportation T2-Roadways T3-Residential Streets T4-Motor Vehicle and Bicycle Parking T5-Traffic Safety T6-Special Needs T7-Regional Leadership T8-Airport Major New Concepts Added In the proposed draft the following new topics have been introduced Draft Comprehensive Plan 57

58 Support reduction of GHG emission and promote electric and alternative fuel vehicles technology; "Complete Streets" concepts and policies to position the City to qualify for regional grant funding; Consistency with the Bicycle Pedestrian Transportation Plan 2012 and the Rail Corridor Study; Transition of the Municipal Airport from the County to the City; Strengthening policies on preservation of neighborhood residential streets, "Safe Routes to School," and general traffic safety; City s leadership and engagement in Regional Transportation efforts. A Summary of Changes Transportation Element had 57 Policies and 58 Programs 82% of the existing policies and programs are being carried over to the amended element; 10% of the existing policies and programs are deemed complete; 1 % of the policies and programs went through status change; 72% of the old policies and programs were edited; 17% of the old policies and programs were carried over with no change and 51 new policies and 71 new programs were added. The draft Transportation Element has a total of 107 policies and 109 programs Draft Comprehensive Plan 58

59 TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT Proposed Vision Maintain and promote a sustainable network of safe, accessible and efficient transportation and parking solutions for all users and modes, while protecting and enhancing the quality of life in Palo Alto neighborhoods including alternative and innovative transportation practices and supporting regional transit facilities and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Proposed Vision Palo Alto will provide accessible, attractive, economically viable and environmentally sound transportation options that meet the needs of residents, employers, employees and visitors for safe, convenient and efficient travel by a variety of methods. Streets will be safe and attractive, and designed to enhance the quality and aesthetics of Palo Alto neighborhoods. Emphasis will be placed on alternatives to the automobile, including walking, bicycling, public transit, and car and van pooling. The adverse impacts of automobile traffic on the environment in general, and residential streets in particular, will be reduced. Solutions that reduce the growth in the number of automobiles on City streets, calm or slow traffic, and save energy will be supported. It is hoped that individuals will reduce their automobile trips by 10 percent by 2010, as alternative transportation methods are implemented. The City will seek out innovative funding sources and approaches to construct and maintain needed transportation systems. Palo Alto recognizes the regional nature of our transportation system, and will be a leader in seeking regional transportation solutions through long-term planning. Draft Comprehensive Plan 59

60 TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT TABLE OF CONTENTS T-1 SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION Create a sustainable transportation system that emphasizes walking, bicycling, and use of public transportation, and other methods to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the use of singleoccupancy vehicles. Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions Public Transit Bicycles and Pedestrians Rail Corridor T-2 ROADWAYS Maintain an efficient roadway network for all users. T-3 RESIDENTIAL STREETS Protect neighborhood streets that support residential character and provide a range of local transportation options. Street Design Standards T-4 MOTOR VEHICLE AND BICYCLE PARKING Encourage attractive, convenient public and private motor vehicle and bicycle parking facilities. Parking in Business Districts Parking Technologies Parking in Residential Districts General Parking Policies Parking Facility Design Bicycle Parking T-5 TRAFFIC SAFETY Provide a high level of safety for motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists on Palo Alto streets. Technology Enhancements Safe Routes to School Draft Comprehensive Plan 60

61 T-6 SPECIAL NEEDS Provide mobility options that allow people with special needs to reach their destinations. Accessible Streets Accessible Public Transit T-7 REGIONAL LEADERSHIP Influence the shape and implementation of regional transportation policies to reduce traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emission. T-8 AIRPORT Maintain a local airport with minimal environmental off-site impacts. Regional Transportation Planning Agencies Highway 101 and Interstate Improvements Regional Transit Networks Draft Comprehensive Plan 61

62 SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION T1 GOAL CREATE A SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM THAT EMPHASIZES WALKING, BICYCLING, THE USE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION, AND OTHER METHODS TO REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS AND THE USE OF SINGLE- OCCUPANCY VEHICLES. REDUCING GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS T1.1 POLICY Reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with transportation by reducing vehicle miles traveled and per-mile emissions through use of vehicle technologies to meet the City s goals for greenhouse gas reductions by (New Policy) T1.2 POLICY Continue to support the adoption and use of technologies that reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and pollutants from passenger and transit vehicles. (New Policy) T1.2.1 PROGRAM Further encourage the installation of facilities that support alternative fuel vehicles by reviewing and amending the Zoning Code where appropriate. (New Program) T1.2.2 PROGRAM Promote incentives and establish public-private transportation partnerships to establish programs within the City to reduce single occupant vehicle use including car sharing companies. (New Program) T1.2.3 PROGRAM Prioritize the purchase of vehicles with reduced greenhouse gas emissions for the City s fleet. (New Program) T1.3 POLICY Make land use decisions that promote infill, redevelopment, and reuse of vacant or underutilized parcels employing minimum density requirements that support walking, bicycling, and public transit use. (Previous Policy T-1, Program T-1, and T-2) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-1: Make land use decisions that encourage walking, bicycling, and public transit use. PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-1: Encourage infill, redevelopment, and re-use of vacant or underutilized parcels employing minimum density requirements that are appropriate to support transit, bicycling, and walking. PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-2: Promote mixed use development to provide housing and commercial services near employment centers, thereby reducing the necessity of driving. Draft Comprehensive Plan 62

63 T1.4 POLICY Locate higher density development near transit corridors and near multimodal transit stations. (Program T03 changed to Policy) (No Change) T1.5 POLICY Strive to balance economic, environmental, and social cost issues in local transportation decisions. (Previous Policy T-2) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-2: Consider economic, environmental, and social cost issues in local transportation decisions. T1.6 POLICY Balance provisions for transit, bicycle, and pedestrians with vehicle level of service through implementation of a multi-modal Level of Service calculation. (New Policy) T1.7 POLICY Collaborate with employers, the Palo Alto Unified School District, and other sources of commute trips to develop and expand comprehensive, effective programs to reduce single-passenger auto use and associated greenhouse gas emissions and to reduce traffic congestion at the local and regional levels. (Previous Policy T-3 & Program T-5) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-3: Collaborate with employers, the Palo Alto Unified School District, and other sources of commute trips to develop and expand comprehensive, effective programs to reduce single-passenger auto use and associated greenhouse gas emissions and congestion at the local and regional levels. PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-5: Work with private interests such as the Chamber of Commerce and major institutions to develop and coordinate trip reduction strategies. T1.7.1 PROGRAM Formalize the City s Transportation Demand Management (TDM) program by establishing an ordinance that outlines when TDM should be applied and specify how compliance will be periodically measured and enforced. TDM measurements shall cover the TDM requirements of mode-share split and vehicle limits. Establish a list of acceptable TDM measures that include transit use, prepaid transit passes, commuter checks, car sharing, carpooling, parking cash-out, bicycling, walking, and education and outreach to support the use of these modes. The ordinance should provide a system for incorporating alternative measures as new ideas for TDM are developed. TDM measurements should include a comparison of building occupancy and land use standards. (New Program) T1.7.2 PROGRAM Expand Palo Alto s Transportation Demand Measures for City employees. (Previous Program T-6) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-6: Expand Palo Alto's carpooling incentive programs. Draft Comprehensive Plan 63

64 T1.7.3 PROGRAM Review existing regulations, policies, and programs to identify revisions that encourage telecommuting, satellite office concepts, and work-at-home options. (Previous Program T-12) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-12: Encourage telecommuting, satellite office concepts, and work-athome options. T1.7.4 PROGRAM Consider Caltrain capacity in evaluation of proposed Transportation Demand Management measures. (New Program) T1.8 POLICY Survey the community regularly to measure the effectiveness of the City s transportation network to make better decisions on transportation issues. (New Policy) PUBLIC TRANSIT T1.9 POLICY Continue and enhance the Palo Alto Shuttle Program along routes that are of value to the community. (Previous Policy T-4) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-4: Provide local transit in Palo Alto. T1.10 POLICY Support continued development and improvement of the Caltrain Stations as important transportation nodes for the City. (Previous Policy T-5) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-5: Support continued development and improvement of the University Avenue and California Avenue Multi-modal Transit Stations, and the San Antonio Road Station as important transportation nodes for the City. T PROGRAM Continue development of the University Avenue Multi-modal Transit Station including revisiting designs as necessary to meet current and future demands. (Previous Program T-14& T-15) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-14: In two phases, pursue development of the University Avenue Multimodal Transit Station conceptual plan based on the design study. PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-15: Improve the environment at the University Avenue Multi-modal Transit Station, including connecting tunnels, through short-term improvements and regular maintenance. T PROGRAM Recognize the importance of the Stanford Caltrain Station during special events and explore opportunities for station improvements. (New Program) T PROGRAM Work with Caltrain to identify joint development opportunities including parking structures, to address Caltrain commuter parking intrusion into surrounding neighborhoods. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 64

65 T1.11 POLICY Support public transit access to regional destinations, multimodal transit stations and employment centers including those within Palo Alto. (Previous Policy T-6) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-6: Improve public transit access to regional destinations, including those within Palo Alto. T1.12 POLICY Encourage employers to develop shared shuttle services to connect employment areas with the multi-modal transit stations and City amenities. (Previous Policy T-8) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-8: Encourage employers to develop shuttle services connecting employment areas with the multi-modal transit stations and business districts. T1.13 POLICY Support and enhance inclusion of public and private school commute patterns in the local transit system, including schedule and route coordination. (Previous Policy T-9) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-9: Work towards integrating public school commuting into the local transit system. T1.14 POLICY Continue to encourage the provision of amenities such as seating, lighting, and signage including real-time arrival information, at bus and shuttle stops and train stations to increase rider comfort, safety, and convenience. (Previous Policy T- 10) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-10: Encourage amenities such as seating, lighting, and signage at bus stops to increase rider comfort and safety. T PROGRAM Work with transit agencies serving Palo Alto to provide real-time transit information. (Previous Program T-9) (No Change) T1.15 POLICY Support efforts to integrate train, bus, and shuttle schedules at multi-modal transit stations to enable efficient transfer among public transit modes. (Previous Policy T-11) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-11: Support efforts to integrate train, bus, and shuttle schedules at multi-modal transit stations to make public transit more time efficient. T1.16 POLICY Support efforts to decrease wait times for intercity transit to a maximum of 20 minutes between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM. (Previous Policy T-12) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 65

66 PREVIOUS POLICY T-12: Support efforts to decrease wait times for intercity transit to a maximum of 20 minutes between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM. Design for a maximum wait time of 12 minutes for intra-city transit, if feasible. T1.17 POLICY Encourage a responsive private sector fuel-efficient taxi service. (Previous Policy T-13) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-13: Encourage a responsive private sector taxi service. T1.18 POLICY Promote car sharing services, particularly to facilitate commuting by other than single occupant cars. (New Policy) BICYCLES AND PEDESTRIANS T1.19 POLICY Prioritize pedestrian access and bicycle use within Palo Alto and to surrounding communities. (New Policy) T PROGRAM Improve pedestrian and bicycle access to and between local destinations, including public facilities, schools, parks, open space, employment districts, neighborhoods, shopping centers, and multi-modal transit stations following the network shown in the Bicycle Pedestrian Transportation Plan 2012, Map 6-1 (Proposed Bikeway Network) (Previous Policy T- 14) (Policy Changed to Program)(Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-14: Improve pedestrian and bicycle access to and between local destinations, including public facilities, schools, parks, open space, employment districts, shopping centers, and multi-modal transit stations. T PROGRAM Implement the prioritized bicycle and pedestrian facilities improvements included in the Bicycle Pedestrian Transportation Plan 2012, including across barrier connection facility improvements, Bicycle Boulevards, trails, sidewalks, and connections to other jurisdictions, identified in the Bicycle Pedestrian Transportation Plan (Previous Program T-19& T-22) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-19: Develop, periodically update, and implement street, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities programs that identify and prioritize critical pedestrian and bicycle links to parks, schools, retail centers, and civic facilities. PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-22: Implement a network of bicycle boulevards, including extension of the southern end of the Bryant Street bicycle boulevard into Mountain View. T PROGRAM Update the City s Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan every five years. (Previous Program T-18) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-18: Develop and periodically update a comprehensive bicycle plan. Draft Comprehensive Plan 66

67 T PROGRAM Periodically publish a local area bicycle route map jointly with adjacent jurisdictions. (Previous Program T-20) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-20: Periodically produce a local area bicycle route map, jointly with adjacent jurisdictions. T PROGRAM Implement the prioritized trail and bikeway recommendations based on the priorities of the City s Bicycle Pedestrian Transportation Plan 2012, including the recommendations to work with private property owners to complete the connectivity of public sidewalks and bicycle routes and facilities in Stanford Research Park and other employment areas and to PAUSD schools. (Previous Program T-23) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-23: Develop public sidewalks and bicycle facilities in Stanford Research Park and other employment areas. T PROGRAM Provide adequate outside through-lane widths for shared use by motorists and bicyclists when constructing or modifying roadways, where dedicated bicycle lanes are infeasible. (Previous Program T-24) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-24: Provide adequate outside through-lane widths for shared use by motorists and bicyclists when constructing or modifying roadways, where feasible. T PROGRAM Support the development of the Santa Clara County Countywide Bicycle System and other regional bicycle plans. (Previous Policy T-18) (Policy Changed to Program)(No Change) T1.20 POLICY Encourage and require where legally feasible new private developments to dedicate easements and provide improvements for bicycle and pedestrian paths to complete the connectivity in the Bicycle Pedestrian Transportation Plan (Previous Policy T-15) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-15: Encourage the acquisition of easements for bicycle and pedestrian paths through new private developments. T1.21 POLICY Explore the creation of connecting paths for pedestrians and bicycles not identified within but supportive of the City s Bicycle Pedestrian Transportation Plan 2012 when opportunities arise in new developments. (Previous Policy T-16) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-16: Create connecting paths for pedestrians and bicycles where dead-end streets prevent through circulation in new developments and in existing neighborhoods. Draft Comprehensive Plan 67

68 T1.22 POLICY Increase cooperation with surrounding communities and other agencies to establish and maintain off-road bicycle and pedestrian paths and trails using creek, utility, railroad rights-of-way and green spaces. (Previous Policy T-17, L-66 & L-68) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-17: Increase cooperation with surrounding communities and other agencies to establish and maintain off-road bicycle and pedestrian paths and trails utilizing creek, utility, and railroad rights-of-way. PREVIOUS POLICY L-66: Maintain an aesthetically pleasing street network that helps frame and define the community while meeting the needs of pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists. PREVIOUS POLICY L-68: Integrate creeks and green spaces with the street and pedestrian/bicycle path system. T PROGRAM Support regional plans to complete development of the Bay Trail and Bay-to- Ridge Trail. (Previous Program T-25 & T-26)(Merged & edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-25: Evaluate the design of a Bay-to-Foothills path. PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-26: Complete development of the Bay Trail and Ridge Trail in Palo Alto. T PROGRAM Enhance bicycle and pedestrian trail improvements along Matadero Creek within Hoover Park. (Previous Program L-41) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM L-41: Support bicycle and pedestrian trail improvements along restored Matadero Creek within Hoover Park. T1.23 POLICY Improve and add attractive, secure bicycle parking at both public and private facilities, including multi-modal transit stations, City parks, City streets and other public rights of way, in private developments, and at other community destinations. (Previous Policy T-19) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-19: Improve and add attractive, secure bicycle parking at both public and private facilities, including multi-modal transit stations, on transit vehicles, in City parks, in private developments, and at other community destinations. T1.24 POLICY Support the development of bicycle parking and service infrastructure such as bicycle stations, valet bicycle parking, and bicycle sharing programs, consistent with the Bicycle Pedestrian Transportation Plan (New Policy) T PROGRAM Work with Caltrain and other public transit operators to expand bicycle storage on public transit vehicles during both peak and off-peak hours. (Previous Program T-27) (No Change) Draft Comprehensive Plan 68

69 T1.25 POLICY Improve maintenance of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. (Previous Policy T-20) (No Change) T PROGRAM Periodically review the street evaluation criteria of the City's Pavement Management Program to ensure consistency with regional standards. Consider sidewalk and bicycle safety enhancements when preparing street maintenance programs. (Previous Program T- 28) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-28: Adjust the street evaluation criteria of the City's Pavement Management Program to ensure that areas of the road used by bicyclists are maintained at the same standards as, or at standards higher than, areas used by motor vehicles. T PROGRAM Enhance the City s regular maintenance of off-road bicycle and pedestrian paths, including sweeping, weed abatement, and pavement maintenance. (Previous Program T-29) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-29: Provide regular maintenance of off-road bicycle and pedestrian paths, including sweeping, weed abatement, and pavement maintenance. T PROGRAM Develop cooperative programs between the City and businesses to keep sidewalks clean in the University Avenue/Downtown, California Avenue, and Midtown business districts, and other centers. (Previous Program T-30) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-30: Develop cooperative programs with the City and businesses to keep sidewalks clean in the University Avenue and California Avenue business districts, and other centers. T1.26 POLICY Support the continued use of University Avenue/ Downtown alleyways for pedestrian and bicycle only use. (Previous Policy T-21) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-21: Support the use of Downtown alleyways for pedestrianand bicycle-only use. T PROGRAM Conduct a test to implement the Downtown Urban Design Guidelines emphasis on the use of alleyways for pedestrian and bicycle-only use. Allow controlled vehicle access for loading and unloading where no alternatives exist. Continue the restrictions if the test results are successful. (Previous Program T-31) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-31: Test the Urban Design Guide emphasis on the use of alleyways for pedestrian- and bicycle-only use. Allow controlled vehicle access for loading and unloading where no alternatives exist. T1.27POLICY Determine which California Avenue business district alleyways are appropriate for pedestrian and bicycle only use. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 69

70 T1.28 POLICY Improve amenities such as seating, lighting, bicycle parking, street trees, and interpretive stations along bicycle and pedestrian paths and in City parks to encourage walking and cycling and enhance the feeling of safety. (Previous Policy T-22) (No Change) T1.29 POLICY Encourage pedestrian-friendly design features such as sidewalks, bulbouts, bollards, street trees, on-street parking, public spaces, gardens, outdoor furniture, art, and interesting architectural details. (Previous Policy T-23) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-23: Encourage pedestrian-friendly design features such as sidewalks, street trees, on-street parking, public spaces, gardens, outdoor furniture, art, and interesting architectural details. T PROGRAM Identify and prioritize pedestrian crossings that should be improved and provide crossing improvements such as bulb-outs, small curb radii, street trees near corners, bollards, landscaping to create protected areas, pedestrian countdown signals, and high visibility crosswalks. (Previous Program T-32) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-32: Improve pedestrian crossings with bulb outs, small curb radii, street trees near corners, bollards, and landscaping to create protected areas. RAIL CORRIDOR (ADDED FROM COUNCIL APPROVED PALO ALTO RAIL CORRIDOR STUDY- THE REPORT OF THE TASK FORCE, JANUARY 22, 2013) The overall vision is to create a vibrant, safe, attractive, transit-rich area with mixed-use city and neighborhood centers that provide walkable, pedestrian and bicycle-friendly places that serve the community and beyond; and to connect the east and west portions of the city through an improved circulation network that binds the city together in all directions. In 2013, the City approved the Palo Rail Corridor Study Report to provide land use and transportation policies to guide redevelopment along the rail corridor that would encourage the appropriate kinds of development, which are consistent with and advocated in the Comprehensive Plan. RC Goal 1 Rail improvements should be constructed in a below-grade trench. (New Goal) Draft Comprehensive Plan 70

71 RC POLICY 1.1 RC POLICY 1.2 RC POLICY 1.3 The city s preferred vertical alignment for fixed rail in Palo Alto is below grade. (New Policy) The City is opposed to an elevated alignment of rail in Palo Alto. (New Policy) When examining the potential impacts of vertical rail alignments equal attention shall be given to all Palo Alto neighborhoods. Adopted mitigation measures should be proportionate to the impacts identified in the studies. (New Policy) RC Goal 2 Ensure the highest feasible safety at all rail crossings and mitigate rail impacts on neighborhoods, public facilities, schools and mixed-use centers. (New Goal) RC POLICY 2.1 RC POLICY 2.2 Improve existing at-grade crossings. All at-grade crossings of the Caltrain corridor should be improved to provide the highest possible level of safety and convenience. This may be grade separations or safer at-grade crossings, with the preferred choice being grade separation, if supported by technical studies. (New Policy) Provide additional safe and convenient crossings. Additional crossings of the tracks and in some cases Alma Street as well, are essential to provide connections from neighborhoods to destinations such as schools, parks and services. (New Policy) RC POLICY 2.3 Improve safety and minimize noise, vibrations and visual impacts of operations in the Caltrain rail corridor. With or without the addition of a High Speed Train, the Caltrain corridor should be modified to improve safety and to minimize noise, vibration and visual impacts on adjoining districts, public facilities, schools and neighborhoods. (New Policy) RC Goal 3 Connect the east and west portions of the City through an improved circulation network that binds the City together in all directions. (New Goal) RC POLICY 3.1 RC POLICY 3.2 Seek to increase the number of east-west pedestrian and bicycle crossings along Alma Street, particularly south of Oregon Expressway. (New Policy) All four existing at-grade rail crossings shall remain open to vehicular traffic. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 71

72 RC Goal 4 RC POLICY 4.1 Provide improved access to parks, recreation facilities and schools and assess future needs for these facilities. (New Goal) Enhance connections to parks, community centers, libraries and schools within the corridor or between the corridor and nearby facilities. Opportunities to increase school capacity and facility development and use should be evaluated and coordinated between the Palo Alto Unified School District and the City. (New Policy) RC Goal 5 RC POLICY 5.1 Infrastructure should keep pace with development. (New Goal) Implement plans and coordinate with other agencies where required for parks, recreation and traffic improvements, as well as new or expanded schools in order to keep pace with new development. Sewer, water, storm drainage and wastewater management should be evaluated and implemented in conjunction with development. (New Policy) T1.30 POLICY Prevent reduction in the number of through-lanes of Alma Street permanently for any fixed rail changes. (New Policy) ROADWAYS T2 GOAL MAINTAIN AN EFFICIENT ROADWAY NETWORK FOR ALL USERS. T2.1 POLICY Maintain a hierarchy of streets in Palo Alto meets the the roadway typologies.of Freeway, Expressway, arterial, Residential arterial, collector, and local street. Freeway: Major roadway with controlled access; devoted exclusively to motor vehicle movement, mainly of a through or regional nature. Expressway: Major roadway with limited access to adjacent properties; devoted almost exclusively to traffic movement, mainly serving through-traffic. Arterial: Major roadway mainly serving through-traffic; takes traffic to and from expressways and freeways; provides access to adjacent properties. Residential Arterial: Major roadway mainly serving through-traffic; takes traffic to and from expressways and freeways; provides access to adjacent properties, most of which are residential properties located on both sides of the roadway with direct frontages and driveways on that roadway. Draft Comprehensive Plan 72

73 Collector: Roadway that collects and distributes local traffic to and from arterial streets, and provides access to adjacent properties. Local: Minor roadway that provides access to adjacent properties only. (Previous Policy T-24) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-24: Maintain a hierarchy of streets that includes freeways, expressways, arterials, residential arterials, collectors, and local streets. T2.1.1 PROGRAM Develop a transportation network map reflecting the new Complete Streets road network typology. (New Program) T2.2 POLICY When constructing or modifying roadways, plan for use of the roadway space by all users, including motor vehicles, transit vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians. (Previous Policy T-25) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-25: When constructing or modifying roadways, plan for usage of the roadway space by all users, including motor vehicles, transit vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians. T2.2.1 PROGRAM Update the comprehensive roadway design standards and criteria to be consistent with Complete Streets best practices, focusing on bicycle and pedestrian safety and multimodal uses. (Previous Program T-33) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-33: Develop comprehensive roadway design standards and criteria for all types of roads. Emphasize bicycle and pedestrian safety and usability in these standards. T2.2.2 PROGRAM Measure and consider the effects of street modifications on emergency vehicle response time. (Previous Program T-34) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-34: Establish procedures for considering the effects of street modifications on emergency vehicle response time. T2.2.3 PROGRAM Evaluate changing Homer and Channing Avenues to two-way streets between Guinda Avenue and Waverly Street with enhanced bicycle facilities. (Previous Program T-44) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-44: Evaluate changing Homer and Channing Avenues to two-way streets with or without redevelopment of the Palo Alto Medical Foundation campus. T2.2.4 PROGRAM Evaluate converting sections of High Street from a one-way street to a two-way street between Lytton Avenue and Channing Avenue. (New Program) T2.2.5 PROGRAM Study the use of Lytton Avenue and Hamilton Avenue as through routes around the downtown area. (New Program) T2.2.6 PROGRAM Partner with private developers to expand the transportation network and improve bicycle and pedestrian facilities. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 73

74 T2.3 POLICY Provide bicycle facilities and sidewalks on all new roads where feasible. (New Policy) T2.4 POLICY Ensure that additional through lanes are not installed at the expense of bicycle lanes, sidewalks, or landscaping. (New Policy) T2.5 POLICY Consider pedestrians and bicyclists when designing road surfaces, curbs, crossings, signage, landscaping, and sight lines. (New Policy) T.2.6 POLICY Participate in the design and implementation of comprehensive traffic solutions near Stanford Shopping Center and Stanford Medical Center. (Previous Policy T- 26) (No Change) T2.6.1 PROGRAM Support increased public transit, traffic management and parking solutions to ensure safe, convenient access to the Stanford Shopping Center/ Medical Center area. (Previous Program T-35) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-35: Consider increased public transit, a shuttle, and other traffic and parking solutions to ensure safe, convenient access to the Stanford Shopping Center/Medical Center area. T2.6.2 PROGRAM Implement and monitor traffic mitigations at Stanford University Medical Center. (New Program) T2.6.3 PROGRAM Provide safe, convenient pedestrian, bicycle, and transit connections between the Stanford Shopping Center/ Medical Center areas and housing along the Sand Hill Road/Quarry Road corridors to the University Avenue Multimodal Transit Station, Downtown Palo Alto, and other primary destinations. (Previous Program T-37) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-37: Provide safe, convenient pedestrian, bicycle, and shuttle connections between the Stanford Shopping Center and Medical Center areas and future housing along the Sand Hill Road corridor, the University Avenue Multi-modal Transit Station, Downtown Palo Alto, and other primary destinations. T2.6.4 PROGRAM Study extension of Quarry Road for transit, pedestrians and bicyclists to the Palo Alto Multimodal Transit Center. (New Program) T2.7 POLICY Maintain the current limits on vehicle access between Alma Street and the El Camino Real-Sand Hill Road intersection. (New Policy) T2.8 POLICY Avoid major increases in street capacity unless necessary to remedy severe traffic congestion or critical neighborhood traffic problems. Where capacity is increased, balance the needs of motor vehicles with those of pedestrians and bicyclists. (Previous Policy T-27) (No Change) Draft Comprehensive Plan 74

75 T2.8.1 PROGRAM Support the evaluation and improvement of City corridors and intersections shared between the City and neighboring jurisdictions such as El Camino Real, Page Mill Road, Oregon Expressway, and Foothill Expressway. (New Program) T2.9 POLICY Prohibit development that causes Level of Service (LOS) E for a particular intersection unless the City Council or the Director of Public Works finds that: There are no feasible improvements to improve level of service to LOS D or above; or A project that contributes to or creates LOS E or below at an intersection provides clear benefits to the community that outweigh the impact; or A capital improvement project is already planned and completely funded that will improve the projected level of service to LOS D or better. (New Policy) T2.10 POLICY Maintain acceptable levels of service for transit vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians on roads in Palo Alto. (Previous Policy T-28) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-28: Make effective use of the traffic-carrying ability of Palo Alto s major street network without compromising the needs of pedestrians and bicyclists also using this network. T PROGRAM Establish thresholds for acceptable levels of service for private vehicles, transit vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians on roadways in Palo Alto. Include definitions for significant impacts to each mode of transportation in these thresholds. Establish protocols for development proposals to evaluate Level of Service for transit vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians on roads in Palo Alto. (New Program) T PROGRAM Monitor and publicly report on the previously identified twenty critical intersections annually as an indicator of the effectiveness of the City s growth management policies. (New Program) T PROGRAM Consider additional intersections to the list of intersections in the monitoring program. (New Program) T PROGRAM Monitor the traffic surrounding new developments and compare with the projections anticipated during the review and approval process of the development. Include this information as part of TDM reporting. (New Program) T PROGRAM Implement computerized traffic management systems to improve traffic flow when feasible. (Previous Program T-38) (No Change) T PROGRAM Maintain the current program of not adding traffic signals on Alma Street north of Lytton Avenue and south of Channing Avenue to Churchill Avenue; and on Middlefield Draft Comprehensive Plan 75

76 Road north of Lytton Avenue and south of Channing Avenue to Embarcadero Road. (Previous Program T-39) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-39: Maintain the current program of not adding traffic signals on: Alma Street north of Lytton Avenue and south of Channing Avenue, on Middlefield Road north of Lytton Avenue and south of Channing Avenue to Embarcadero Road. T PROGRAM Implement a program to monitor, coordinate, and optimize traffic signal timing a minimum of every five years along arterial and residential arterial streets. (New Program) T PROGRAM Evaluate the City s Transportation Impact Fee every five years to implement new transportation priority projects. (New Program) T PROGRAM Monitor and publicly report on ten critical residential collector or local streets annually for traffic incursion and safety. (New Program) T2.11 POLICY Regulate truck movements in a manner that maintains the efficient movement of trucks while preserving the residential character of Palo Alto s arterial street system. (Previous Policy T-29) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-29: Regulate truck movements in a manner that balances the efficient movement of goods with the residential character of Palo Alto s arterial street system. T PROGRAM Periodically evaluate the need for changes to Palo Alto s truck routes and weight limits to consider such issues as relationship to neighboring jurisdictions, lower weight limits, increased number of routes, and economic and environmental impacts. (Previous Program T-40) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-40: Regulate truck movements in a manner that balances the efficient movement of goods with the residential character of Palo Alto s arterial street system. RESIDENTIAL STREETS T3 GOAL PROTECT NEIGHBORHOOD STREETS THAT SUPPORT RESIDENTIAL CHARACTER AND PROVIDE A RANGE OF LOCAL TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS. T3.1 POLICY Minimize noticeable increases in traffic from new development in residential neighborhoods, through traffic mitigation measures. Employ Traffic Impact on Residential Environments (TIRE) analysis to measure potential street impacts from new development. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 76

77 T3.2 POLICY Reduce the impacts of through-traffic on residential areas by designating certain streets as residential arterials. (Previous Policy T-30) (No Change) T3.2.1 PROGRAM The following roadways are designated as residential arterials. (Previous Program T-41) (Edited) Middlefield Road (between San Francisquito Creek and San Antonio Road) University Avenue (between San Francisquito Creek and Middlefield Road) Embarcadero Road (between Alma Street and West Bayshore Road) Charleston/Arastradero Roads (between Miranda Avenue and Fabian Way) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-41: The following roadways are designated as residential arterials. Treat these streets with landscaping, medians, and other visual improvements to distinguish them as residential streets, in order to reduce traffic speeds. Middlefield Road (between San Francisquito Creek and San Antonio Road) University Avenue (between San Francisquito Creek and Middlefield Road) Embarcadero Road (between Alma Street and West Bayshore Road) Charleston/Arastradero Roads (between Miranda Avenue and Fabian Way) T3.2.2 PROGRAM To distinguish and preserve residential arterials as residential streets, construct landscaping, medians, and other visual improvements to reduce vehicle speed. (New Program) T3.2.3 PROGRAM Use landscaping and other improvements to establish clear "gateways" at the points of transition from freeways to residential arterials and neighborhoods. (Previous Program T-42) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-42: Use landscaping and other improvements to establish clear "gateways" at the points where University Avenue and Embarcadero Road transition from freeways to neighborhoods. T3.3 POLICY Keep all neighborhood streets open unless there is a demonstrated safety or overwhelming through-traffic problem and there are no acceptable alternative; or the street is a part of a designated bike boulevard. (Previous Policy T-33) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-33: Keep all neighborhood streets open unless there is a demonstrated safety or overwhelming through-traffic problem and there are no acceptable alternatives, or unless a closure would increase the use of alternative transportation modes. T3.4 POLICY Implement traffic calming measures to slow traffic on local and collector residential streets and prioritize traffic calming measures over congestion management. (Previous Policy T-34) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-34: Implement traffic calming measures to slow traffic on local and collector residential streets and prioritize these measures over Draft Comprehensive Plan 77

78 congestion management. Include traffic circles and other traffic calming devices among these measures. T3.4.1 PROGRAM Establish a Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program to implement appropriate traffic calming measures when requested by the community. Review residential areas for traffic impacts, and use the results of that review to prioritize traffic calming measures. Consider private sector funding opportunities as a funding source for this program. (Previous Program T-43) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-43: Establish a Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program to implement appropriate traffic calming measures. Consider using development fees as a funding source for this program. T3.5 POLICY Balance traffic circulation needs with the goal of creating walkable and bike friendly neighborhoods. (Previous Policy L-67) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY L-67: Balance traffic circulation needs with the goal of creating walkable neighborhoods that are designed and oriented towards pedestrians. STREET DESIGN STANDARDS T3.6 POLICY Implement Best Practice Street Design standards with new residential development projects. (Previous Policy T-35) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-35: Reduce neighborhood street and intersection widths and widen planting strips as appropriate. T3.7 POLICY Study where rolled curbs should be replaced by vertical curbs and prioritize such streets citywide as part of the Street Resurfacing Program. (Previous Policy T-36) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-36: Make new and replacement curbs vertical where desired by neighborhood residents. T3.8 POLICY Where sidewalks are directly adjacent to curbs and no planting strip exists, explore ways to add planting pockets with street trees to increase shade and reduce the apparent width of wide streets. (Previous Policy T-37) (No Change) Draft Comprehensive Plan 78

79 MOTOR VEHICLE AND BICYCLE PARKING T4 GOAL ENCOURAGE ATTRACTIVE, CONVENIENT PUBLIC AND PRIVATE MOTOR VEHICLE AND BICYCLE PARKING FACILITIES. PARKING IN BUSINESS DISTRICTS T4.1 POLICY Provide sufficient motor vehicle and bicycle parking in the University Avenue/Downtown and California Avenue business districts and other centers to support vibrant economic activity. Limit under-parked development while there is insufficient public parking. (Previous Policy T-45) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-45: Provide sufficient parking in the University Avenue/Downtown and California Avenue business districts to address longrange needs. T4.1.1 PROGRAM Develop a Parking Management Program for both the University/Downtown and California Avenue business districts that supports alternative transportation modes. (New Program) T4.1.2 PROGRAM Provide adequate parking for customers and employees within each business district to reduce impacts on adjacent residential neighborhoods. (New Program) T4.1.3 PROGRAM Use attendant parking at off street parking facilities to supplement the demand of parking permit programs. (New Program) T4.1.4 PROGRAM Evaluate the use of paid or meter parking strategies, both on street and off street to facilitate customer parking availability. (New Program) T4.1.5 PROGRAM Within each business district expand the number of parking spaces made available to car sharing programs. (New Program) T4.1.6 PROGRAM Promote programs to encourage ride sharing among employees within each business district. (New Program) T4.1.7 PROGRAM Evaluate shuttle program options to adjacent communities to further reduce parking demands in each business districts. (New Program) T4.1.8 PROGRAM Require the preparation of Transportation Demand Management plans for each new development within each business district. (New Program) T4.1.9 PROGRAM Develop Transportation Demand Management plans for all of the City s business districts, including University Avenue/Downtown, California Avenue, Stanford Research Park and East Meadow Circle business districts and El Camino Real Corridor. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 79

80 T PROGRAM Partner with merchants, merchant associations, Chamber of Commerce, Palo Alto Downtown Business Association and neighbors to explore options for constructing new parking facilities or using existing parking more efficiently. (Previous Program T-50) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-50: Continue working with merchants, the Chamber of Commerce, neighbors, and a parking consultant to explore options for constructing new parking facilities or using existing parking more efficiently. T PROGRAM Work with merchants to equitably implement designated employee parking areas or strategies. (Previous Program T-51) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-51: Work with merchants to designate dedicated employee parking areas. T PROGRAM Update the 13 point parking program to include technology and transportation demand management solutions. (New Program) T PROGRAM Program) Explore an automobile cap as a tool to regulate Downtown development. (New T4.2 POLICY Explore the development of new Transportation Management Associations to support citywide alternative travel modes in the University/Downtown, California Avenue, Stanford Research Park, East Meadow Circle business districts and other areas in the City where appropriate and necessary. (New Policy) PARKING TECHNOLOGIES T4.3 POLICY Parking management in the University Avenue/Downtown and California Avenue business districts should prioritize a park once strategy that encourages visitors to park in one location and walk between destinations within the district. (New Policy) T4.3.1 PROGRAM Study parking pricing and congestion pricing options for on-off-street parking in the Downtown/University Avenue and California Avenue business districts that is responsive to the market and results in approximately 85% parking occupancy. As part of creating this system, review the existing Downtown parking system to ensure it is still consistent with the overall approach to parking in the Downtown, and includes mechanisms that allow merchants to defray parking fees for their customers. (New Program) T4.3.2 PROGRAM Provide way-finding information, using fixed and dynamic signage, that clearly indicates where and how much parking is available, for how long, and at what cost. (New Program) T4.3.3 PROGRAM Study techniques for improving the effectiveness of the parking permit program. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 80

81 T4.4 POLICY Explore additional options for new development to finance construction of additional parking facilities that benefits the new development. (New Policy) PARKING IN RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS T4.5 POLICY Create and maintain residential permit parking programs in appropriate areas of the City when supported by impacted neighborhood. (Previous Policy T-47) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-47: Protect residential areas from the parking impacts of nearby business districts. T4.5.1 PROGRAM Review on-street parking availability in residential neighborhoods adjacent to business districts to determine how it is used during business and non-business hours. Consider allowing designated disabled on-street parking upon resident request when conducting this review. (New Program) T4.5.2 PROGRAM Develop a program to implement new residential permit parking districts to preserve neighborhood quality of life. (New Program) GENERAL PARKING POLICIES T4.6 POLICY All new development projects should be completely self-parked without the use of on-street parking intended to fulfill the minimum parking requirements and compliant with the established parking regulations in the Municipal Code. (New Policy) T4.6.1 PROGRAM Study design alternatives that would assist developers to meet parking requirements on-site. (New Program) T4.6.2 PROGRAM Update the zoning ordinance to count partly or fully enclosed private garages dedicated to individual housing units as floor area in mixed use and multifamily residential developments. (New Program) T4.6.3 PROGRAM Update parking standards for non-residential uses to reflect increased occupancy trends. (New Program) T4.6.4 PROGRAM Update the zoning ordinance to limit the use of parking reductions for mixed use projects in order to maximize on-site parking options. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 81

82 T4.7 POLICY Continue to encourage shared parking and offsite parking agreements in order to reduce the overall number of new parking spaces that must be provided on site for new development, while still being completely self-parked. (New Policy) T4.7.1 PROGRAM Review the Zoning Ordinance to determine how it can support creative approaches to parking requirements through parking technology improvements, including vehicle lifts and electronic monitoring. Update the Zoning Ordinance to reflect changes that result from this review. (New Program) T4.7.2 PROGRAM Monitor projects annually for the life of the project that employ parking reductions, shared parking and off-site parking. Include target mode shift distribution rates and alternative mitigations for projects if target distribution is not met. Enforce required reductions through penalties if appropriate mode share and vehicle limit requirements are not met. (New Program) T4.7.3 PROGRAM Review off street minimum vehicle parking requirements to determine whether they can be reduced in situations where building location or design could reduce the demand for parking spaces and where reductions are acceptable in exchange for desired uses such as carshare spaces or alternative fuel vehicle infrastructure. This review should particularly focus on areas located within the Transit Oriented Residential Overlay District. (New Program) PARKING FACILITY DESIGN T4.8 POLICY Update the Zoning Ordinance to require the installation of electric vehicle charging stations in new developments. (New Policy) T4.8.1 PROGRAM Establish standards for electric vehicle charging in all new development, including pre-wiring for charging at all parking spaces and provision of charging stations in nonresidential and mixed use developments. (New Program) T4.9 POLICY Design vehicle parking areas to reduce stormwater runoff, increase compatibility with street trees, and add visual interest to streets and other public locations. Encourage covered parking in parking lots or parking structures through the use of tree canopies or photovoltaic panel canopies. (New Policy) T4.10 POLICY Encourage the use of below-grade or structured parking instead of surface parking for new developments. (New Policy) T4.11 POLICY Parking regulation enforcement should focus on ensuring parking availability, rather than revenue generation. (New Policy) T PROGRAM Use technology to help identify parking availability and make it easy to pay any parking fees. Clearly provide information about regulations, reducing the likelihood that tickets will need to be issued. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 82

83 T4.12 POLICY Encourage parking strategies in the Stanford Medical Center and Stanford Shopping Center area that maximize the efficient use of parking and, in the long term, consider the possible use of remote parking lots with shuttle bus service. (Previous Policy T-48) (No Change) BICYCLE PARKING T4.13 POLICY Increase the number of safe, attractive and well-designed public bicycle parking spaces available in the city. (New Policy) T PROGRAM Determine where additional bicycle parking is needed by reviewing bicycle parking availability and use in heavily traffic areas such as University Avenue/Downtown, California Avenue, Midtown, and neighborhood commercial centers. Include merchants, employees, and the public in this process. (New Program) T PROGRAM Encourage use of urban design principles to develop attractive and functional bicycle parking facilities. (New Program) T PROGRAM Consider creative approaches to expand bicycle parking such as on street parking corrals, partnerships with private businesses, and use of remnant public spaces in plazas, parking garages, and transit stations. (New Program) T4.14 POLICY Continue to require safe and convenient off street bicycle parking as part of the approval process for new development; prioritize retention of bicycle parking spaces, even if space is at a premium, whenever the Director of Planning and Community Environment permits a reduction in the total number of vehicle parking spaces. (New Policy) T PROGRAM Review and update the Municipal Code to implement the Bicycle Parking Recommendations found in the Bicycle Pedestrian Transportation Plan (New Program) T PROGRAM Encourage the provision of bicycle maintenance facilities adjacent to high bicycle traffic locations. (New Program) T4.15 POLICY Encourage the establishment of valet bicycle parking programs and bicycle share programs in high bicycle-traffic locations. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 83

84 TRAFFIC SAFETY T5 GOAL PROVIDE A HIGH LEVEL OF SAFETY FOR MOTORISTS, PEDESTRIANS, AND BICYCLISTS ON PALO ALTO STREETS. T5.1 POLICY Continue to make safety and multimodal accessibility the top priority of citywide transportation planning. Prioritize pedestrian, bicycle, automobile safety and transit accessibility over vehicle Level-Of-Service at intersections. (Previous Policy T-39) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-39: To the extent allowed by law, continue to make safety the first priority of citywide transportation planning. Prioritize pedestrian, bicycle, and automobile safety over vehicle level-of-service at intersections. T5.1.1 PROGRAM Use engineering, enforcement, and educational tools to improve traffic safety on City roadways. Evaluate the performance of safety improvements and identify methods to encourage alternative transportation modes. (Previous Program T-47) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-47: Utilize engineering, enforcement, and educational tools to improve traffic safety on City roadways. T5.1.2 PROGRAM Implement safety improvements by employing an annual monitoring program to identify intersections with recurring traffic accidents. (New Program) T5.1.3 PROGRAM Enhance walkability and bicycle safety by allowing for reduced vehicle speed zones in or near commercial and school areas. (New Program) T5.1.4 PROGRAM Evaluate the use of all-pedestrian traffic signal movements at Downtown intersections along University Avenue. (New Program) T5.1.5 PROGRAM Evaluate smoothing and slowing traffic flow in commercial areas by reducing through-traffic lanes and trading the area for improved turning lanes, landscaping, and bicycle lanes.(previous Policy T-31) (Policy Changed to Program)(No Change) TECHNOLOGY ENHANCEMENTS T5.2 POLICY Use appropriate technology to monitor and improve safety throughout the City. (New Policy) T5.2.1 PROGRAM Enhance safety on roadways and at intersections through the use of physical changes and signal technology. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 84

85 T5.2.2 PROGRAM Program) Evaluate technologies to monitor and collect bicycle and pedestrian data. (New T5.2.3 PROGRAM As a part of new development, pursue public-private partnerships to introduce technology that would assist the City in monitoring traffic and minimize parking intrusion. (New Program) T5.2.4 PROGRAM Identify and deploy technology to monitor sidewalks and bicycle facilities to help identify trends in multimodal use at schools, parks, and other community facilities. (New Program) T5.3 POLICY Introduce Multimodal Level of Service as a measurement in the rating of the performance of streets. (New Policy) T5.4 POLICY Continue to work with Caltrain to increase safety at train crossings, including improving gate technology, grade separation, and signal coordination. (New Policy) T5.5 POLICY Work with Caltrain to identify opportunities to enhance bicycle and pedestrian accessibility to transit stations. (New Policy) T5.6 POLICY Vigorously and consistently enforce speed limits and other traffic laws. (Previous Policy T-41) (No Change) T5.6.1 PROGRAM Add new stop signs or traffic signals at intersections when established criteria or contributing factors warrant their installation. (Previous Policy T-38) (Policy changed to Program) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-38: Continue the current guard and go system of having stop signs approximately every other block on local residential streets to discourage through-traffic. SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL T5.7 POLICY Continue to prioritize the safety and comfort of school children in street modification projects that affect school travel routes. (Previously Policy T-40) (No Change) T5.7.1 PROGRAM Continue to periodically update and support the implementation of the Safe Routes to Schools Program consistent with the Safe Routes to School Partnership Consensus Statement. Work with the PAUSD to distribute and market Safe Routes to School information, and provide encouragement activities for students including walking school buses and bike trains, and prioritize engineering improvements near schools. (New Program) T5.7.2 PROGRAM Develop appropriate establishment criteria for the placement of adult crossing guards at school crossings and monitor locations every two years to ensure crossing guards are properly deployed. (Previous Program T-45) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 85

86 PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-45: Provide adult crossing guards at school crossings that meet adopted criteria. T5.7.3 PROGRAM Establish criteria for the use of Reduced Speed Zones along Suggested Routes to Schools. (New Program) T5.7.4 PROGRAM Develop Walk and Roll Maps for each public school within the community. Encourage the private schools within the community to develop Walk and Roll Maps as part of Transportation Demand Management strategies to reduce vehicle trips. (New Program) T5.7.5 PROGRAM Continue to provide extensive educational programs to help promote the safe use of bicycles, mopeds or scooters, and motorcycles. Include programs for including bicycle education programs in the public schools, bicycle traffic school program for juveniles, and adults to help promote awareness of bicycling as viable transportation mode. (Previous Program T-46) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-46: Encourage extensive educational programs for the safe use of bicycles, mopeds, and motorcycles, including the City-sponsored bicycle education programs in the public schools and the bicycle traffic school program for juveniles. T5.7.6 PROGRAM Add routes to the Safe Routes to Schools Map to encompass new schools, new residential developments, and underserved neighborhoods. (New Program) SPECIAL NEEDS T6 GOAL PROVIDE MOBILITY OPTIONS THAT ALLOW PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS TO REACH THEIR DESTINATIONS. ACCESSIBLE STREETS T6.1 POLICY Identify and address the needs of people with disabilities and meet or exceed the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) during the planning and implementation of transportation and parking improvement projects. Utilize the principles of Universal Design, and local and state design standards to guide these efforts. (Previous Policy T-42) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-42: Address the needs of people with disabilities and comply with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) during the planning and implementation of transportation and parking improvement projects. T6.1.1 PROGRAM Review street and other roadway signage in Palo Alto that support the principles of Universal Design. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 86

87 T6.1.2 PROGRAM Continue to retrofit sidewalks, ramps, street crossings, and entrances to transit facilities to ensure they meet and exceed ADA requirements. (New Program) ACCESSIBLE PUBLIC TRANSIT T6.2 POLICY Continue to work with the Valley Transportation Authority to support demand responsive paratransit service for eligible participants in Palo Alto and maintain existing paratransit services particularly where bus service is discontinued. Encourage the Valley Transportation Authority to emphasize service quality and timeliness when contracting for paratransit services. (Previous Policy T-43) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-43: Provide and/or promote demand-responsive paratransit service. T6.3 POLICY Collaborate with the Valley Transportation Authority, SamTrans, Stanford Marguerite Shuttle, Palo Alto Shuttle Bus, Dumbarton Express Bus Service and Caltrain in the provision of transit service that is accessible to people with special needs. (New Policy) T6.3.1 PROGRAM Coordinate with social service agencies to design bus routes that enable those lacking the resources to travel in timely and economical ways to access those services. (New Program) T6.4 POLICY Support transit agencies in implementing or continuing reduced fare or no fare voucher systems for selected populations. (Previous Policy T-44) (No Change) REGIONAL COLLABORATION T7 GOAL INFLUENCE THE SHAPE AND IMPLEMENTATION OF REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION POLICIES TO REDUCE TRAFFIC CONGESTION AND GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSION. REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION PLANNING AGENCIES T7.1 POLICY Lead and participate in initiatives to manage regional traffic. (Previous Policy T-49) (No Change) Draft Comprehensive Plan 87

88 T7.2 POLICY Collaborate with public interest groups, academic institutions, and local, state, and the federal government to study and advocate for transportation regulatory changes. (Previous Policy T-50) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-50: Collaborate with public interest groups and local, state, and federal governments to study and advocate transportation regulatory changes, such as an increase in the gasoline tax and market pricing efforts. T7.3 POLICY Support the efforts of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) to coordinate transportation planning and services for the Mid-Peninsula and the Bay Area that support greenhouse gas reductions. Encourage MTC to base the region s Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) and Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) on greenhouse gas reductions. (Previous Policy T-51) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-51: Support the efforts of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) to coordinate transportation planning and services for the Mid-Peninsula and the Bay Area that emphasize alternatives to the automobile. Encourage MTC to base its Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) on compact land use development assumptions. T7.4 POLICY Where appropriate, support the conversion of existing traffic lanes to highoccupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes on expressways and freeways, including the continuation of an HOV lane from Redwood City to San Francisco. (Previous Policy T-52) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-52: Where appropriate, support the conversion of existing traffic lanes to exclusive bus and high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes on freeways and expressways, including the Dumbarton Bridge. T7.5 POLICY Participate in seeking a regional solution to improve roadway connections, including HOV lanes, between Highway 101 and the Dumbarton Bridge without construction of a southern connection across the environmentally sensitive baylands. (Previous Policy T-53) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-53: Participate in seeking a regional solution to improved roadway connections between Highway 101 and the Dumbarton Bridge without construction of a southern connection across environmentally sensitive baylands. T7.6 POLICY Support efforts by Caltrans and the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority Congestion Management Program to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow on area freeways. (Previous Policy T-54) (No Change) Draft Comprehensive Plan 88

89 T7.7 POLICY Support State and Federal legislation to reduce motor vehicle emissions, noise, and fuel consumption. (Previous Policy T-56) (No Change) T7.8 POLICY Coordinate with local, regional agencies, and Caltrans to support regional efforts to maintain transportation infrastructure in Palo Alto. (New Policy) T7.9 POLICY Coordinate with local and regional agencies to promote the installation and maintenance of electric vehicle charging stations broadly available throughout the region. (New Policy) HIGHWAY 101 and INTERSTATE IMPROVEMENTS T7.10 POLICY Support provision of a new southbound entrance ramp to Highway 101 from San Antonio Road. (Previous Program T-55)(Program changed to Policy) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-55: Support provision of a new southbound entrance ramp to Highway 101 from San Antonio Road, in conjunction with the closure of the southbound Charleston Road on-ramp at the Rengstorff Avenue interchange in Mountain View. T7.11 POLICY Support improvements at the Highway 101/Embarcadero Rd-Oregon Expressway interchange. (New Policy) T7.12 POLICY Support the construction of new bicycle and pedestrian facilities across Highway 101, including a year-round crossing near Adobe Creek. (New Policy) T7.13 POLICY Support the application of emerging freeway information, monitoring, and control systems that provide non-intrusive driver assistance and reduce congestion. (Previous Policy T-55) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-55: Support the application of emerging freeway information, monitoring, and control systems that provide driver assistance and reduce congestion. T7.14 POLICY Require privately funded freeway sound walls to meet Caltrans standards and integrate them with existing Caltrans sound walls in Palo Alto. (New Policy) T PROGRAM Program) Work with developers to provide a freeway graffiti abatement program. (New Draft Comprehensive Plan 89

90 REGIONAL TRANSIT NETWORKS T7.15 POLICY Support the development of an efficient and quiet regional rail system that encircles and crosses the Bay, along with intra-county and transbay transit systems that link Palo Alto to the rest of Santa Clara County and adjoining counties. (Previous Policy T-7) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY T-7: Support plans for a quiet, fast rail system that encircles the Bay, and for intra-county and transbay transit systems that link Palo Alto to the rest of Santa Clara County and adjoining counties. T7.16 POLICY Support Caltrain modernization and its extension to downtown San Francisco. (Previous Program T-17) (Program changed to Policy)(Edited) Previous Program T17: Support CalTrain electrification and its extension to downtown San Francisco. T PROGRAM Monitor impacts of any increased peak-hour Caltrain service on grade crossings. (New Program) T PROGRAM Work towards a funding mechanism to build grade separations if supported by technical studies at existing grade crossings for Caltrain between San Francisco and San Jose. Explore opportunities to fund grade separations in Palo Alto through traffic impact fees or alternative mitigation measures for any increase in delay at Caltrain grade crossings caused by nearby development or increased rail service, including those generated by High Speed Rail or the extension of Caltrain to the Transbay Terminal. (New Program) T7.17 POLICY Encourage the development and implementation of plans to provide Caltrain with a permanent source of funding in addition to the three County transportation agencies. (New Policy) T7.18 POLICY Support design and implementation of a Dumbarton rail crossing, taking into consideration the protection of the environmentally sensitive baylands. (New Policy) T7.19 POLICY Collaborate on extensions of VTA Light Rail or private transit facilities to Palo Alto. (Previous Program T-16) (Program changed to Policy) (Edited) Previous Program T16: Evaluate the extension of a light rail line along El Camino Real from Mountain View through Palo Alto to Menlo Park. Draft Comprehensive Plan 90

91 T7.20 POLICY Support the regional Grand Boulevard Initiative for El Camino Real, including Bus Rapid Transit Improvements, without dedicated bus lanes, to support Valley Transportation Authority services. (New Policy) T7.21 POLICY Study the use of Transit Signal Priority to support the Stanford Marguerite Shuttle Program. (New Policy) AIRPORT T8 GOAL MAINTAIN A LOCAL AIRPORT WITH MINIMAL OFF SITE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS. T8.1 POLICY Support and maintain the character, vitality and effectiveness of the Palo Alto Airport as pertains to, among others, its flight operations, boundaries, and surrounding open space and residential areas. The Airport will remain limited to a single runway and will be served by an appropriate number of commercial aeronautical service providers, in accordance with Federal law. (Previous Policy T-57) (Edited) Previous Policy T-57: Support the continued vitality and effectiveness of the Palo Alto Airport without significantly increasing its intensity or intruding into open space areas. The Airport should remain limited to a single runway and two fixed base operators. T8.1.1 PROGRAM Transfer management and control of the Palo Alto Airport from the County of Santa Clara to the, including leasing airport property or contracting with businesses that will provide the highest quality of general aviation-related services to airport tenants and users. (New Program) T8.1.2 PROGRAM Develop a Airport Master Plan that will sufficiently address concerns including aircraft flight paths, airport and aircraft safety, airport emergency management, airport noise mitigation, and an Airport Layout Plan, on or after the date the City has achieved management and control of the Palo Alto Airport. (New Program) T8.1.3 PROGRAM Maintain landscaping and security fencing to visually screen and secure the airport premises located along Embarcadero Road from the airport entrance to the intersection of Embarcadero Road and Harbor Road. (Previous Program T-57) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-57: Provide a planting strip and bicycle/pedestrian path adjacent to Embarcadero Road that is consistent with the open space character of the baylands. T8.1.4 PROGRAM Relocate, as feasible, the existing terminal building from the Runway Safety Area, or facilitate the construction of a new terminal building at a reasonable distance from the Draft Comprehensive Plan 91

92 natural habitat area surrounding the restored Palo Alto harbor in accordance with Federal law. (Previous Program T-58) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM T-58: Encourage Santa Clara County to relocate the terminal building away from the Runway 31 clear zone, allowing for construction of a new terminal. T8.1.5 PROGRAM Protect flight operations and safety by promoting the development and maintenance of levees built to the Federal Emergency Management Agency s (FEMA) and other applicable construction and safety standards that will protect the Palo Alto Airport and adjacent City lands against flooding and long-term forecasted sea level rise. (New Program) T8.1.6 PROGRAM Ensure the Baylands Master Plan is consistent with the adopted Airport Master Plan. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 92

93 The Disposition Table The Disposition Table explains the status of each of the goals, policies and programs of the Comprehensive Plan elements. It shows the following: The corresponding new number of the policy/program; If there is no change in the policy/program; If the policy/program has been edited; If the policy/program has been completed; If the existing policy/program had a status change (i.e. either merged with another policy/program, or policy changed to a program or vice versa)and The existing Comprehensive Plan s goals, policies and program numbers. Draft Comprehensive Plan 93

94 TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT UPDATE GOALS, POLICIES AND PROGRAMS DISPOSITION Transportation Element MOVED TO OTHER ELEMENTS / ADDED FROM OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Transportation Element T01 Policy T1.3 T01 Program T02 Program GOAL T-1: Less Reliance on Single-Occupant Vehicles X Combined Policy T01, Program T01 & T02 T03 Program X Changed to Policy T1.4 T02 Policy X T1.5 T04 Program Complete T03 Policy T1.7 T05 Program X Combined with Policy T03 & Program T05 T06 Program X T1.7.2 Combined with T07 Program Policy T03 & Program T05 T08 Program X X Combined with existing Policy T03, Program T05 & New Program T1.7.1 T09 Program X T T10 Program Complete T11 Program Not Applicable T12 Program X T1.7.3 GOAL T-2: A Convenient, Efficient, Public Transit System that Provides a Viable Alternative to Driving T04 Policy X T1.9 T13 Program Complete T05 Policy X T1.10 T14 Program X Combined T Program T14 & T15 Program X T15 T06 Policy X T1.11 T07 Policy X T7.15 T16 Program X Changed to Policy T7.19 T17 Program X Changed to Policy T7.16 T08 Policy X T1.12 T09 Policy X T1.13 T10 Policy X T1.14 T11 Policy X T1.15 T12 Policy X T1.16 T13 Policy X T1.17 GOAL T-3: Facilities, Services, and Programs that Encourage and Promote Walking and Bicycling T14 Policy Changed to X Program T T18 Program X T T19 Program Combined with X Program T22 T T20 Program X T T21 Program Complete Draft Comprehensive Plan 94

95 Transportation Element MOVED TO OTHER ELEMENTS / ADDED FROM OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Transportation Element T22 Program Combined with Program T19 T23 Program X T T24 Program X T T15 Policy X T1.20 T16 Policy X T1.21 T17 Policy X Combined with Policy L-66 L-68 & T17 T1.22 T25 Program X Combined T Program T25 & T26 Program T26 T18 Policy X Policy Changed to T Program T19 Policy X T1.23 T27 Program X T T20 Policy X T1.25 T28 Program X T T29 Program X T T30 Program X T T21 Policy X T1.26 T31 Program X T T22 Policy X T1.28 T23 Policy X T1.29 T32 Program X T T24 Policy X T2.1 T25 Policy X T2.2 T33 Program X T2.2.1 T34 Program X T2.2.2 T26 Policy X T2.6 T35 Program X T2.6.1 T36 Program Complete T37 Program X T2.6.3 T27 Policy X T2.8 T28 Policy X T2.10 T38 Program X T T39 Program X T T29 Policy X T2.11 T40 Program X T GOAL T-5: A Transportation System with Minimal Impacts on Residential Neighborhoods T30 Policy X T3.2 T41Program X T3.2.1 T42 Program X T3.2.3 T31 Policy X Policy Changed to Program T32 Policy Repetitive X T33 Policy X T3.3 T34 Policy X T3.4 T43 Program X T3.4.1 T44 Program X T2.2.3 T35 Policy X T3.6 T36 Policy X T3.7 T37 Policy X T3.8 T38 Policy GOAL T-4: An Efficient Roadway Network for All Users X Policy Changed to Program GOAL T-6: A High Level of Safety for Motorists, Pedestrians, and Bicyclists on Palo Alto Streets T39 Policy X T5.1 T45 Program X T5.7.3 T46 Program X T5.7.6 T47 Program X T5.1.1 Draft Comprehensive Plan 95 T5.1.5 T5.6.1

96 Transportation Element MOVED TO OTHER ELEMENTS / ADDED FROM OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Transportation Element T40 Policy X T5.7 T41 Policy X T5.6 T42 Policy X T6.1 T43 Policy X T6.2 T48 Program Not Applicable T44 Policy X T6.4 T45 Policy X T4.1 T49 Program Complete T50 Program X T T51 Program X T T46 Policy Complete X T47 Policy X T4.5 T52 Program X T53 Program X T48 Policy X T4.12 GOAL T-9 An Influential Role in Shaping and Implementing Regional Transportation Decisions T49 Policy X T7.1 T50 Policy X T7.2 T54 Program Repetitive X T51 Policy X T7.3 T52 Policy X T7.4 T53 Policy X T7.5 T54 Policy X T7.6 T55 Program X Changed to Policy T7.10 T55 Policy X T7.13 T56 Policy X T7.7 T56 Program Not Applicable GOAL T-7: Mobility for People with Special Needs GOAL T-8: Attractive, Convenient Public and Private Parking Facilities GOAL T-10 A Local Airport with Minimal Off-site Impacts T57 Policy X T8.1 T57 Program X T8.1.3 T58 Program X T8.1.4 ADDED FROM LAND USE ELEMENT L66 Policy X X Combined with Policy T17 L67 Policy X X T3.5 L68 Policy X X L41 Program X X Combined with Policy T17 T Moved from other Elements=4 Policies & Programs Repetitive, Completed or Not Applicable & Removed= 12 Policies / Programs Status Changed = 8 Policies / Programs Merged or Split= 17 No Change= 19 Reworded= 83 Total = 95 (56)Policies and (39) Programs Draft Comprehensive Plan 96

97 NEW GOALS (8), NEW POLICIES (51), AND PROGRAMS 71) ADDED GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS T1 T1.1 T2 T2.1.1 T3 T3.1 T1.2 T1.2.1 T2.2.4 T3.2.2 T1.2.2 T2.2.5 T1.2.3 T2.2.6 T2.3 T1.6 T2.4 T1.7.1 T2.5 T1.8 T2.6.2 T T2.6.4 T T2.7 T1.18 T2.8.1 T1.19 T2.9 T1.24 T T1.27 T RC Goal 1 RC Policy 1.1 T RC Policy 1.2 T RC Policy 1.3 T RC Goal 2 RC Policy 2.1 T RC Policy 2.2 T RC Policy 2.3 RC Goal 3 RC Policy 3.1 RC Policy 3.2 RC Goal 4 RC Policy 4.1 RC Goal 5 RC Policy 5.1 T1.30 GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS T4 T4.1.1 T5 T5.1.2 T6 T6.1.1 T4.1.2 T5.1.3 T6.1.2 T4.1.3 T5.1.4 T6.3 T6.3.1 T4.1.4 T5.2 T5.2.1 T4.1.5 T5.2.2 T4.1.6 T5.2.3 T4.1.7 T5.2.4 T4.1.8 T5.3 T4.1.9 T5.4 T T5.5 T4.2 T5.7.1 T4.3 T4.3.1 T5.7.3 T4.3.2 T5.7.4 T4.3.3 T5.7.6 T4.4 T4.5.1 T4.5.2 T4.6 T4.6.1 T4.6.2 T4.6.3 T4.6.4 T4.7 T4.7.1 T4.7.2 T4.7.3 T4.8 T4.8.1 T4.9 T4.10 T4.11 T T4.13 T T T T4.14 T T T4.15 T7 T7.8 T8 T8.1.1 T7.9 T8.1.2 T7.11 T8.1.5 T7.12 T8.1.6 T7.14 T Draft Comprehensive Plan 97

98 GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS T7.17 T7.18 T7.20 T7.21 T T Draft Comprehensive Plan 98

99 Policies and Programs Deleted from the Transportation Element Policy/Program # Policy/Program Language Status REDUCING AUTO USE GOAL T-1: T04 Program Less Reliance on Single-Occupant Vehicles Consider the use of additional parking fees and tax revenues to fund alternative transportation projects. Complete T10 Program Expand the range of City services that can be received via computers or through the mail. Complete T11 Program Promote private delivery services to reduce the necessity of driving. Not Applicable GOAL T-2: T13Program GOAL T-3: PUBLIC TRANSIT A Convenient, Efficient, Public Transit System that Provides a Viable Alternative to Driving In two phases, establish a jitney bus system similar to Stanford University's Marguerite Shuttle. BICYCLING AND WALKING Facilities, Services, and Programs that Encourage and Promote Walking and Bicycling Complete T21Program Study projects to depress bikeways and pedestrian walkways under Alma Street and the CalTrain tracks and implement if feasible. Complete GOAL T-4: ROADWAYS An Efficient Roadway Network for All Users T36Program Extend Sand Hill Road to El Camino Real and construct related improvements consistent with neighborhood and community interests. Do not extend Sand Hill Road to Alma Street. Complete NEIGHBORHOOD IMPACTS GOAL T-5: A Transportation System with Minimal Impacts on Residential Neighborhoods T 32 Policy GOAL T-6: Design and maintain the City street network to provide a variety of alternate routes, so that the traffic loads on any one street are minimized. TRAFFIC SAFETY A High Level of Safety for Motorists, Pedestrians, and Bicyclists on Palo Alto Streets SPECIAL NEEDS Repetitive GOAL T-7: Mobility for People with Special Needs T48Program Monitor Santa Clara County's paratransit program to assess its adequacy. Not Applicable PARKING GOAL T-8: T49Program T46 Policy GOAL T-9: Attractive, Convenient Public and Private Parking Facilities Implement a comprehensive program of parking supply and demand management strategies for Downtown Palo Alto. Minimize the need for all-day employee parking facilities in the University Avenue/Downtown and California Avenue business districts and encourage shortterm customer parking. REGIONAL LEADERSHIP An Influential Role in Shaping and Implementing Regional Transportation Decisions Complete Complete T54Program Work regionally, and in particular with adjacent communities, to establish a system of parking fees that discourages single-occupant vehicle use and encourages Repetitive Draft Comprehensive Plan 99

100 Policy/Program # Policy/Program Language Status T56Program Implement as appropriate the local action list of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) and work with the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority's Congestion Management Program (CMP) and other jurisdictions to implement those actions that require a multi-jurisdictional effort. AIRPORT Not Applicable GOAL T-10: A Local Airport with Minimal Off-site Impacts Draft Comprehensive Plan 100

101 Community Services and Facilities Element Draft Comprehensive Plan 101

102 Draft Comprehensive Plan 102

103 Highlights of changes The Community Services and Facilities Element is not a required by State law; however, the topics addressed here are an integral part of the City s overall planning strategy and a basic consideration in setting growth and development policy. This Element emphasizes the importance of providing responsive, efficient, and cost-effective community services. It acknowledges the vital role that public facilities like parks and schools play in shaping community life. The following are the changes made to the Community Services and Facilities Element: New Vision Statement This generation must invest in the people, places, programs and environment of Palo Alto to ensure that the quality and vitality of community services and facilities are present and responsive to the generations to come. Proposed Element Structure This element has five goals, same as Comprehensive Plan element, but the format has been restructured to introduce new topics. The following is the new goal structure. C1-Health and Well Being (New) C2-Community Partnership C3-Maintaining Parks and Facilities C4-Planning for the Future C5- Public Services in Palo Alto Major New Concepts Added In the proposed draft the following new topics have been introduced Advocating for healthy lifestyles for all residents; Helping teen community to combat depression, isolation, stress, Draft Comprehensive Plan 103

104 and other mental health issues; Engaging seniors in the community; Implementing recommendations of Infra Structure Blue Ribbon Committee (IBRC) and Encouraging universal access to parks, public facilities and community facilities suited for diverse uses A Summary of Changes Community Services and Facilities Element had 32 policies and 27 programs 88% of the existing policies and programs are being carried over to the amended element; 10% of the existing policies and programs are deemed complete; 63% of the old policies and programs were edited; 25% of the old policies and programs were carried over with no change and 21 new policies and 52 new programs were added The draft Community Services and Facilities Element has a total of 51 policies and 74 programs. Draft Comprehensive Plan 104

105 COMMUNITY SERVICES AND FACILITIES ELEMENT Proposed Vision This generation must invest in the people, places, programs and environment of Palo Alto to ensure that the quality and vitality of community services and facilities are present and responsive to the generations to come. Existing Vision Palo Alto will provide high quality community services to its residents, businesses, and visitors. Its schools, libraries, parks, community facilities, and performing arts and cultural centers are treasured and will be enhanced to serve current and future generations. Its police and fire services will be managed to provide consistently high levels of public safety. The City will continue to provide services and programs that meet the needs of special populations including children, seniors, and people with disabilities as well as programs in recreation, lifelong learning, and the arts that benefit all populations. Palo Alto s success in providing these services will be expressed and measured by the satisfaction of its customers, the public at large. The City will pursue new ways to deliver community services in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible. It will coordinate its efforts with other public agencies, nonprofits, and the private sector to reduce overlap and maximize the use of resources. Draft Comprehensive Plan 105

106 COMMUNITY SERVICES AND FACILITIES ELEMENT TABLE OF CONTENTS C1 HEALTH AND WELL BEING Prioritize implementation of programs and strategies that sustain the health, wellbeing, recreation and safety of residents and visitors Commitment to Responsive Community Services Healthy Lifestyles through Community Services Community Programs and Services for Children Places for Teens in the Community Engaging Seniors in the Community Celebrating Cultural Diversity C2 COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS Engage the community, work with regional partners, reach out to schools, collaborate with non-profits and create business partnerships in order to provide community services for all age groups Engaging the Community Regional Relationships Partnering with our Schools Non-profit Community Partners Business Partnerships C3 MAINTAINING PARKS AND FACILITIES Recognize the intrinsic value and everyday importance of our parks and community centers, libraries and civic buildings by investing in their maintenance and improvement Maintaining our Parks and Facilities Expanding Access C4 PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE Plan for a future in which our parks, libraries and community facilities Draft Comprehensive Plan 106

107 continue to thrive and adapt to the growth and change of Palo Alto Preserving the Aesthetic Legacy of our Parks Community Facilities with Adaptability for Diverse Uses Opportunities to Develop New Parks and Recreational Facilities C5 PUBLIC SERVICE IN PALO ALTO Commit to providing high quality public services and to the manner in which those services are provided to our residents, businesses and visitors Working with the Community Draft Comprehensive Plan 107

108 HEALTH AND WELL BEING C1 GOAL PRIORITIZE THE IMPLEMENTATION OF PROGRAMS AND STRATEGIES THAT SUSTAIN THE HEALTH, WELL BEING, RECREATION AND SAFETY OF RESIDENTS AND VISITORS. COMMITMENT TO RESPONSIVE COMMUNITY SERVICES C1.1 POLICY Promote City stewardship of its parks, facilities, programs and services for present and future generations. (New Policy) C1.2 POLICY Recognize and respond to the City s changing population demographics in order to meet the needs of Palo Alto s diverse community. (New Policy) C1.2.1 PROGRAM Periodically conduct a comprehensive needs assessment in order to identify and prioritize the needs of the community. (New Program) C1.2.2 PROGRAM Update the Community Services Department Strategic Action Plan to reflect the needs of the City s evolving community. (New Program) HEALTHY LIFESTYLES THROUGH COMMUNITY SERVICES C1.3 POLICY The City s community services should be a catalyst in creating a culture of health, well being and active living in our community. It shall contribute to the intellectual physical and social health of the community by providing opportunities for learning, expression and social interaction for all ages at our libraries, community facilities, parks and cultural centers. (New Policy) C1.3.1 PROGRAM Encourage and promote healthy events that provide incentives for active fitness and recreation, such as Day of Play, Palo Alto Swims Day, or Palo Alto Plays Tennis, and work in cooperation with other groups that have these types of facilities or programs. (New Program) C1.3.2 PROGRAM Encourage, promote, and incentivize organized community and neighborhood gatherings in public facilities and other social events in the neighborhoods such as block parties. (New Program) C1.3.3 PROGRAM Provide interactive classes, programs, and camps for children that promote the skills of communication, collaboration, critical thinking, creativity, innovation and leadership intended to inspire interest in physical fitness, nature, the arts, conservation and environmental stewardship. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 108

109 C1.4 POLICY Incorporate the Developmental Assets approach into the City s planning, development, implementation and evaluation of programs and services for children and youth. (New Policy) C1.4.1 PROGRAM Incorporate the 41 developmental assets into the recruitment, training and evaluating of staff and third party contractors that work with children and youth. (New Program) C1.4.2 PROGRAM Develop and provide library services and programs supporting the 41 Developmental Assets for adolescents model that encourages learning and well-being. (New Program) C1.5 POLICY Promote and expand the City s initiatives and commitment to access to and availability of healthy foods and beverages. (New Policy) C1.5.1 PROGRAM Facilitate and expand access to existing and future farmers markets throughout Palo Alto. (New Program) C1.5.2 PROGRAM Ensure that City-provided vending machines, café menus, and menus for City-sponsored events provide healthy, nutritional and affordable food and beverage alternatives. (New Program) C1.6 POLICY Develop strategies to help the community identify and combat depression, isolation, stress and other mental health issues. (New Policy) C1.6.1 PROGRAM Support implementation of Santa Clara County s Strategic Plan for Suicide Prevention and its five overarching and interconnected prevention strategies. (New Program) C1.6.2 PROGRAM Actively promote training in identifying those at risk of suicide (gatekeeper training) and how to report suicide threats to appropriate parental and professional authorities. (New Program) C1.6.3 PROGRAM Collaborate with Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD) and other local and regional authorities, including the Santa Clara County government, in health and prevention efforts. (New Program) C1.6.4 PROGRAM Work with the community to implement a strong and effective educational program to promote the healthy mental, emotional, and social development of residents and employees/employers including, but not limited to, understanding of problem-solving skills, coping skills, and resilience. (New Program) C1.6.5 PROGRAM In coordination with development of the City s Emergency Crisis Plan, establish a crisis intervention plan and procedures to ensure public safety and appropriate communications in the event that a suicide occurs or a suicide attempt is made. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 109

110 C1.7 POLICY Support and promote County, City and non-profit services addressing the needs of the low income and unhoused community especially in the areas of temporary housing, food, clothing, health care, mental health and transportation. (Previous Policy C20) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C20: Support and promote services addressing the needs of the unhoused community. C1.7.1 PROGRAM Work with Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties, non-profit agencies and other organizations to define roles and responsibilities in the comprehensive provision of temporary shelter, food, clothing and transportation for those in need. (New Program) COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND SERVICES FOR CHILDREN C1.8 POLICY Work to ensure that all children have places to play and to learn, and will be safe in our community. (New Policy) C1.8.1 PROGRAM Support and promote the provision of comprehensive child care services in Palo Alto by public and private providers, including employers. (Previous Policy C11) (Policy changed to a program) (No Change) C1.8.2 PROGRAM Use the Early Care and Education Master Plan to guide the delivery of childcare services. (Previous Program C13) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C13: Use the Child Care Master Plan to guide the delivery of child care services. Update and amend this Plan to include standards for evaluating the impacts of new development on child care service needs. C1.9 POLICY Coordinate delivery of childcare services with other service providers, including the Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD). (Previous Policy C12) (No Change) C1.9.1 PROGRAM Continue strong support for and long-term commitment to school age child care programs on PAUSD sites. (Previous Policy C13)(Policy changed to Program) (No Change) PLACES FOR TEENS IN THE COMMUNITY C1.10 POLICY Teens needs a place in the community; work with stakeholders to give form and identity to those places. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 110

111 C1.11 POLICY Continue to support provision, funding, and promotion of services, programs and activities for teens that strengthen leadership skills, encourage a culture of community service and promote a diverse range of interests and vocations. (New Policy) C PROGRAM In collaboration with the teen community, continue to evaluate the range of programs offered by the City and community partners to ensure a balanced offering representing the diverse interest of teens. (New Program) C PROGRAM Seek opportunities to expand outreach and increase involvement while continuing to support youth leadership programs and events. (New Program) C PROGRAM Foster a culture of peer to peer support through existing programs that promote and encourage developmental asset building within the community. (New Program) C1.12 POLICY Support the Project Safety Net Community Collaborative Strategic Plan for youth well-being in Palo Alto. (New Policy) C PROGRAM Leverage available funding to continue support of Project Safety Net goals and objectives in order to achieve maximum long term impact for youth well being. (New Program) C1.13 POLICY Continue to support the provision, funding, and promotion of services, programs and activities for all children and youth that promote diversity of experience, spark curiosity and encourage learning. (e.g. those offered through the Recreation, Arts, Sciences Division and the Library). (Previous Policy C17) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C17: Continue to support provision, funding, and promotion of services and programs for children and youth (e.g., those offered at the teen center). C PROGRAM Encourage the continuation and development of programs for children and youth. Maximize participation in such programs by improving the quality of existing programs and seek opportunities to increase the number of locations where the programs are provided. Support public transportation options to locations. (Previous Program C18) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C18: Encourage the continuation and development of after-school and evening programs for children and youth. Maximize participation in such programs by increasing the number of locations where the programs are provided and by supporting transportation options to these locations. Draft Comprehensive Plan 111

112 ENGAGING SENIORS IN THE COMMUNITY C1.14 POLICY Support and promote the provision of comprehensive senior services in coordination with senior service providers. (Previous Policy C18) (No Change) C PROGRAM Continue to support non-profit organizations in the provision of convenient, low-cost meals and nutrition education to seniors. (New Program) C PROGRAM Maintain existing senior programs and seek opportunities to expand programs, including programs promoting health, life-long learning, recreation, arts and cultural experiences designed for seniors at all public community facilities and parks. (New Program) C PROGRAM Encourage and promote activities, events and services that welcome and engage the senior population. (New Program) C PROGRAM Develop a program to engage the talents and skills that older people possess to provide volunteer opportunities for seniors throughout the City. (New Program) C1.15 POLICY Provide services for seniors at convenient locations that are accessible to public transit, parking, walking or biking. (New Policy) CELEBRATING CULTURAL DIVERSITY C1.16 POLICY Provide space in the community for cultural activities that recognize and respond to our diverse community interests. (Previous Policy C23) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C23: Explore ways to expand the space available in the community for art exhibits, classes and other cultural activities. C1.17 POLICY Explore ways to reduce language and cultural barriers within our diverse community to encourage greater citizen participation and inclusiveness. (New Policy) C PROGRAM Based on identified needs, continue to provide and expand the provision of multilingual literature, program information and educational displays at public community facilities and parks. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 112

113 COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS C2 GOAL ENGAGE THE PALO ALTO COMMUNITY, WORK WITH REGIONAL PARTNERS, REACH OUT TO SCHOOLS, COLLABORATE WITH NON-PROFITS AND CREATE BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS TO PROVIDE COMMUNITY SERVICES FOR ALL AGE GROUPS. ENGAGING THE COMMUNITY C2.1 POLICY Explore innovative ways to encourage residents to volunteer, take pride of ownership, and contribute to Palo Alto s community services. (New Policy) C2.1.1 PROGRAM Use technology and popular social media to engage the community and increase awareness and participation in Palo Alto s recreation, arts, cultural experiences, libraries, community programs and volunteer activities. (New Program) C2.1.2 PROGRAM Develop and maintain an internet listing for volunteers to encourage the community to find opportunities for volunteering with the City and community organizations. (New Program) REGIONAL RELATIONSHIPS C2.2 POLICY Encourage the creation of partnerships within the Mid-Peninsula, Silicon Valley and the greater Bay Area to seek effective solutions to shared problems and community service needs and leverage available State and Federal resources. (Previous Policy C1) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C1: Encourage the creation of partnerships within the Mid-Peninsula or the greater Bay Area to seek effective solutions to shared problems and community service needs. C2.3 POLICY Cooperate with neighboring communities in providing municipal services such as police and fire protection, libraries, arts, science programs and recreation, where economies of scale make it beneficial. (Previous Policy C2) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C2: Where economies of scale are possible, cooperate with neighboring communities in providing municipal services such as police and fire protection, libraries, and recreation. Draft Comprehensive Plan 113

114 C2.4 POLICY Fully participate and continue to take an active leadership role in addressing community service issues that cross jurisdictional lines. (Previous Policy C3) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C3: Palo Alto should continue to take a leadership role in addressing community service issues that cross jurisdictional lines. C2.5 POLICY Continue to form partnerships between the City and Stanford University with the goal of enhancing the quality of life for both communities by increasing opportunities for shared use and the development of programs, facilities and community services. (New Policy) C2.5.1 PROGRAM Consider the development of a performing arts center through a public-private partnership with Stanford University that would be an asset to the community and local economy. (Previous Program C22) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C22: Assess the development of a performing arts center as an asset to the community and local economy. C2.5.2 PROGRAM Preserve El Camino Park as a recreational resource for the community. (Previous Program C24) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C24: Preserve El Camino Park as a recreational resource for the community at a reasonable cost. C2.5.3 PROGRAM Study opportunities for jointly-funded community and/or municipal services such as libraries, recreation programs, and educational services. (New Program) PARTNERING WITH OUR SCHOOLS C2.6 POLICY Maintain a close, collaborative relationship with the Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD) and private schools to maximize the use of school services, playing fields and facilities for public benefit, particularly for young people, families, and seniors. (Previous Policy C4) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C4: Maintain a close, collaborative relationship with the PAUSD to maximize the use of school services and facilities for public benefit, particularly for young people, families, and seniors. C2.6.1 PROGRAM In cooperation with existing public and private agencies and PAUSD, develop an informational program that will help to coordinate the efforts of agencies providing services to families and youth in Palo Alto. (Previous Program C1) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C1: In cooperation with existing public and private agencies and PAUSD, develop a service program that will coordinate the efforts of agencies providing services to families and youth in Palo Alto. Draft Comprehensive Plan 114

115 C2.6.2 PROGRAM Continue to use the City/School Liaison Committee to remove barriers to community use of schools, fields, pools, gymnasiums, auditoriums, and other facilities and to coordinate other areas of mutual interest. (Previous Program C2) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C2: Continue to use the City/School liaison committee to remove barriers to community use of schools and facilities and coordinate other areas of mutual interest. C2.6.3 PROGRAM Assess the potential for City use of PAUSD facilities such as childcare libraries, playing fields, pools, gymnasiums, recreational facilities, community meeting space, education, health care, culture, and computer resources. (Previous Program C3) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C3: Assess the potential for City use of PAUSD facilities for child care, libraries, recreational facilities, community meeting space, education, health care, culture, and computer resources. C2.6.4 PROGRAM Work with PAUSD to identify ways that weekend, after school and evening use of school facilities such as gyms, pools and fields can be further expanded to increase community recreational opportunities. (Previous Program C4) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C4: Work with PAUSD to determine ways that schools can be made more available to the community for weekend and evening use. C2.7 POLICY Recognize the importance of schools to the social and economic vitality of the City. (Previous Policy C5) (No Change) C2.7.1 PROGRAM Explore ways to collaborate with public and private schools in providing programs, services and facilities that enhance the social and economic vitality within the city. (New Program) C2.8 POLICY Continue and enhance City efforts to assist PAUSD in anticipating and addressing land development-related school enrollment impacts. (Previous Policy C6) (No Change) C2.8.1 PROGRAM Provide regular status reports to PAUSD on potential and approved development projects. (Previous Program C6) (No Change) NON-PROFIT COMMUNITY PARTNERS C2.9 POLICY Actively work with private, nonprofit, and public community service organizations to coordinate services such as childcare, senior services, and recreation to avoid duplication and maximize efficiency. (Previous Policy C7) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 115

116 PREVIOUS POLICY C7: Actively work with private, nonprofit, and public community service organization to avoid duplication and to coordinate the delivery of services like child care, senior services, and recreation. BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS C2.10 POLICY Welcome and encourage involvement of the private sector and business community in the provision of community services. (Previous Policy C8) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C8: Welcome and encourage corporate citizenship in the provision of community services. C PROGRAM Establish programs for the business community to support community services and programs through contributions of funds, time, materials, and expertise. (Previous Program C8) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C8: Establish a program to facilitate continuing corporate support for community services through contributions of funds, time, materials, and expertise. C PROGRAM Acknowledge and provide recognition for local business and corporate activities in philanthropy and community service in order to encourage other businesses to also support community services. (New Program) C2.11 POLICY Encourage Palo Alto businesses and their employees to take an active role in the future of the City. (New Policy) C PROGRAM Seek new opportunities for private sector sponsorship of community activities and City cultural events. (New Program) C PROGRAM Develop partnerships between the City and businesses to help maintain and enhance the community services and amenities available to the employees of the partnering businesses. (New Program) MAINTAINING PARKS AND FACILITIES C3 GOAL RECOGNIZE THE INTRINSIC VALUE AND EVERYDAY IMPORTANCE OF OUR PARKS AND COMMUNITY CENTERS, LIBRARIES AND CIVIC BUILDINGS BY INVESTING IN THEIR MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENT. MAINTAINING OUR PARKS AND FACILITIES Draft Comprehensive Plan 116

117 C3.1 POLICY Maintain existing community facilities in public ownership to prevent potential shortages in the future. (Previous Policy C21) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C21: Where appropriate, maintain existing community facilities in public ownership to prevent potential shortages in the future. C3.1.1 PROGRAM Continue to seek long-term public-private agreements for the operation and enjoyment of public facilities for the community s benefit, such as Avenidas, Gamble Gardens, and Environmental Volunteers. (New Program) C3.2 POLICY Reinvest in the maintenance of aging facilities where such investment improves their usefulness, efficiency and appearance. Avoid deferred maintenance of City infrastructure. (Previous Policy C24) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C24: Reinvest in aging facilities to improve their usefulness and appearance. Avoid deferred maintenance of City infrastructure. C3.2.1 PROGRAM Align capital improvement projects with statewide and regional grants and outside funding sources in order to leverage limited City capital funds. (New Program) C3.2.2 PROGRAM Develop improvement plans for the maintenance, restoration and enhancement of community facilities, and keep these facilities viable community assets by investing the necessary resources. (Previous Program C19) (No Change) C3.2.3 PROGRAM Evaluate the findings of the City s Infrastructure Blue Ribbon Commission report and implement recommendations as appropriate to assure that maintenance is not deferred, and operating maintenance and planned maintenance are adequately funded to maintain community facilities in functional, safe, and attractive condition. (New Program) C3.2.4 PROGRAM Implement an infrastructure management system that serves as a tool for analyzing the costs associated with the City's infrastructure, including maintenance, operation, depreciation and replacement, as well as investment in new and different facilities required for delivery of future community services. (New Program) C3.2.5 PROGRAM Enhance existing childcare and senior care facilities to meet emerging and future needs. (New Program) C3.2.6 PROGRAM Incorporate a standard related to the amount of pedestrian usage as an additional criterion used in prioritizing sidewalk repairs. (Previous Program C21) (No Change) C3.2.7 PROGRAM Develop improvement plans for the maintenance, restoration and enhancement of the City s public art collection, and keep the collection viable community assets by investing the necessary resources for their conservation and protection. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 117

118 C3.2.8 PROGRAM Develop long-term strategies for funding and implementation of infrastructure replacement and improvement. (Previous Program C20) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C20: Conduct comprehensive analyses of long-term infrastructure replacement requirements and costs. C3.3 POLICY Make infrastructure improvements on public open space only when these improvements are consistent with the goals of protecting and conserving the natural environment. (Previous Policy C25) (No Change) C3.3.1 PROGRAM Develop comprehensive conservation plans for Foothills Park, Baylands Nature Preserve and the Pearson Arastradero Preserve that will address both conservation and passive recreational needs. (New Program) C3.4 POLICY Maintain and enhance existing urban park facilities in order to keep up with changing recreational and sports trends and public interests. (Previous Policy C26) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C26: Maintain and enhance existing park facilities. EXPANDING ACCESS C3.5 POLICY Continue to support the provision, funding, and promotion of services for persons with disabilities through the Human Relations Commission, Building Division, the Recreation Division, and other City departments. Support the rigorous compliance with, or exceeding whenever possible, the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), such as providing accessible playgrounds swings, ramps to top of structures and raising sand areas in children s playgrounds. (Previous Policy C19) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C19: Continue to support provision, funding, or promotion of services for persons with disabilities through the Human Relations Commission, the Parks and Recreation Division, and other City departments. Support rigorous compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). C3.6 POLICY Facilitate universal access by a variety of public transportation modes for our residents and visitors to parks, recreation programs, athletic fields, libraries, arts and cultural centers. (Previous Policy C30 & C32 Merged) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C30: Facilitate access to parks and community facilities by a variety of transportation modes. Draft Comprehensive Plan 118

119 PREVIOUS POLICY C32: Provide fully accessible public facilities to all residents and visitors. C3.6.1 PROGRAM Continue to implement Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements in City facilities including accommodation for those with non-physical disabilities. (Previous Program 27) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C27: Continue to implement Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements in City facilities including, but not limited to, sidewalk curb cuts, building entrances, meeting room access and sight and hearing adjuncts. C3.6.2 PROGRAM Provide elements of expanded access to play equipment at all City parks when they are renovated or built. (New Program) C3.6.3 PROGRAM Provide information in a variety of different formats to inform people with special needs about the level of accessibility of parks, playgrounds, trails and other amenities that are accessible for their particular circumstance. (New Program) C3.6.4 PROGRAM Improve access for persons with non-physical or sensory disabilities, including cognitive or social/emotional needs. Partner with agencies such as Abilities United, Youth Community Services, Best Buddies, PAUSD, etc., for support so that all children can participate as appropriate in Palo Alto recreational programs.. (New Program) C3.7 POLICY Facilitate access to educational, recreational, and cultural programs and services by continuing to provide financial subsidy programs for residents with low-incomes and/or disabilities. (Previous Policy C31) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C31: Facilitate access to educational, recreational, and cultural services by continuing to provide financial assistance programs for residents with lowincomes and/or disabilities. C3.8 POLICY Incorporate new technology where applicable to improve public access to City s information and programs. Adopt privacy standards to protect customer information and data. (New Policy) PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE C4 GOAL PLAN FOR A FUTURE IN WHICH OUR PARKS, LIBRARIES AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES CONTINUE TO THRIVE AND ADAPT TO THE GROWTH AND CHANGE OF PALO ALTO. PRESERVING THE AESTHETIC LEGACY OF OUR PARKS Draft Comprehensive Plan 119

120 C4.1 POLICY Stewardship of our parks and open spaces shall be carried out with the acknowledgement, maintenance and preservation the City grants to all of its landmarks and valued facilities. (New Policy) C4.2 POLICY Parks and open space should be included in climate mitigation planning to preserve the natural environment, reduce the amount of carbon emissions and positively contribute in meeting the City s Climate Protection goals. (New Policy) COMMUNITY FACILITIES WITH ADAPTABILITY FOR DIVERSE USES C4.3 POLICY Design and refurbish community facilities and parks for flexible functions to support multi-disciplinary programming that would enhance adaptability for the changing needs of the community. Discourage single use facilities and parks. (Previous Policy C22) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C22: Design and construct new community facilities to have flexible functions to ensure adaptability to the changing needs of the community. C4.3.1 PROGRAM Require a multi-use analysis on all future community facilities and parks. (New Program) C4.4 POLICY Plan new public community facilities and parks to meet the needs of the City s multi-generational community. (New Policy) C4.4.1 PROGRAM Seek opportunities to provide intergenerational activities and programs that increase senior activity within the community. (New Program) C4.5 POLICY In residential or neighborhood commercial development projects, strongly encourage child care and/or senior care facilities, along with measures to mitigate potential conflicts between these facilities and surrounding uses. (Previous Policy C15) (No Change) C4.5.1 PROGRAM Evaluate the effectiveness of the changes in zoning, parking, and landscaping requirements that support the development of neighborhood child and/or senior care facilities to define additional programs. (Previous Program C15) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C15: Study changes in zoning, parking, and landscaping requirements that would facilitate the development of neighborhood child and/or senior care facilities. C4.6 POLICY Promote the location of potential child and/or senior care centers in all appropriate zones including in the Public Facilities zone. Provide assistance with the application process for proposed child and/or senior care centers. (Previous Policy C16 & Program C17 Merged) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 120

121 PREVIOUS POLICY C16: Identify existing or potential locations for child and/or senior care in public facilities and actively promote the establishment of such facilities. PREVIOUS PROGRAM C17: Facilitate the application process for proposed child and/or senior care centers. Work with applicants or potential applicants to identify appropriate locations for such centers. OPPORTUNITIES TO DEVELOP NEW PARKS AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES C4.7 POLICY Seek opportunities to develop new parks and recreation facilities to meet the emerging needs of residents and employees of Palo Alto. (Previous Policy C27) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C27: Seek opportunities to develop new parks and recreation facilities to meet the growing needs of residents and employees of Palo Alto. C4.7.1 PROGRAM Plan for potential park sites when preparing coordinated area plans. (Previous Program C25) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C25: Consider potential park sites when preparing coordinated area plans. C4.7.2 PROGRAM In conjunction with new public development proposals, pursue creation of park, plaza, or other public gathering places that meet neighborhood needs. (Previous Program C26) (No Change) C4.7.3 PROGRAM Encourage private development proposals, to include creation of park, plaza, or other recreational, and art facilities to meet the needs of the community. (New Program) C4.7.4 PROGRAM Encourage the inclusion of publicly and privately financed art in the design of new and renovated public spaces, facilities and parks. (New Program) C4.7.5 PROGRAM Charge new developments park and community facilities impact fees as calculated by periodic Nexus studies. (New Program) C4.8 POLICY Locate new parks and community facilities so that it is safe to walk and bike to them from all neighborhoods. (Previous Policy C29) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C29: Strategically locate public facilities and parks to serve all neighborhoods in the City. C4.8.1 PROGRAM Actively implement the Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) guidelines for locating new parks within one half-mile of all residential Draft Comprehensive Plan 121

122 neighborhoods and employment areas (based on the National Recreation and Park Association s definition of walking distance). (New Program) C4.8.2 PROGRAM Implement the strategies of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan in order to create Safe Routes to parks and community facilities. (New Program) C4.9 POLICY Use the National Recreation and Park Association Standards as guidelines for locating and developing new parks. These guidelines are as follows: (Previous Policy C28) (No Change) Neighborhood parks should be at least two acres in size, although sites as small as one-half acre may be needed as supplementary facilities. The maximum service area radius should be one-half mile. Two acres of neighborhood park land should be provided for each 1,000 people. District parks should be at least five acres in size. The maximum service area radius should be one mile. Two acres of district park land should be provided for each 1,000 people. A park should be provided within walking distance of all residential neighborhoods and employment areas. The National Recreation and Park Association defines walking distance as one-half mile. C4.9.1 PROGRAM Conduct a survey to evaluate usage and capacity of existing facilities and parks to assess community needs and to identify underserved neighborhoods. (New Program) C4.9.2 PROGRAM Assess the value and cost benefit of new parks, plazas and other green spaces that are less than one half acre in size, in meeting the needs of surrounding neighborhoods. (New Program) C4.10 POLICY In planning new open spaces, balance the enjoyment and community use of public land with protecting natural ecosystems. (New Policy) C PROGRAM Program) Follow the adopted guidelines in the Baylands Master Plan. (New PUBLIC SERVICE IN PALO ALTO C5 GOAL COMMIT TO PROVIDING HIGH QUALITY PUBLIC SERVICES AND TO THE MANNER IN WHICH THOSE SERVICES ARE PROVIDED TO OUR RESIDENTS, BUSINESSES AND VISITORS WORKING WITH THE COMMUNITY Draft Comprehensive Plan 122

123 C5.1 POLICY Deliver City services in a manner that creates and reinforces positive relationships among City employees, residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. (Previous Policy C9) (No Change) C5.1.1 PROGRAM Establish performance review criteria for City employees that consider the quality of customer service provided. (Previous Program C9) (No Change) C5.1.2 PROGRAM Establish tangible incentives and enhance rewards and recognition programs to encourage City staff to deliver professional, high quality services. (Previous Program C10) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C10: Establish tangible incentives and enhance rewards and recognition programs to encourage City staff to deliver high quality services. C5.2 POLICY Perform customer-oriented evaluations of City service delivery and develop strategies for improving customer service and improving efficiency. (Previous Policy C10) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY C10: Perform customer-oriented evaluations of City service delivery and develop strategies for improving customer service. C5.2.1 PROGRAM Continue to budget for City staff training in customer service-oriented management techniques. (Previous Program C11) (No Change) C5.2.2 PROGRAM Encourage City work groups to examine and improve operating procedures to improve customer service or efficiency. (Previous Program C12) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM C12: Encourage City work groups to examine and improve operating procedures. C5.3 POLICY Develop highly motivated, professional, engaged staff and volunteers who are valued for their integrity, commitment and contributions towards the City and community. (New Policy) C5.3.1 PROGRAM Continue education, training and skill building for City employees in order to assure a knowledgeable, professional and responsive staff. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 123

124 Draft Comprehensive Plan 124

125 The Disposition Table The Disposition Table explains the status of each of the goals, policies and programs of the Comprehensive Plan elements. It shows the following: The corresponding new number of the policy/program; If there is no change in the policy/program; If the policy/program has been edited; If the policy/program has been completed; If the existing policy/program had a status change (i.e. either merged with another policy/program, or policy changed to a program or vice versa)and The existing Comprehensive Plan s goals, policies and program numbers. Draft Comprehensive Plan 125

126 COMMUNITY SERVICES AND FACILITIES ELEMENT UPDATE GOALS, POLICIES AND PROGRAMS DISPOSITION Community Services and Facilities Element MOVED TO OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Community Service Element Policy C-1: x C2.2 Policy C- 2: x C2.3 Policy C- 3: x C2.4 Policy C- 4: x C2.6 Program C-1: x C2.6.1 Program C-2: x C2.6.2 Program C-3: x C2.6.3 Program C-4: x C2.6.4 Program C-5: Complete Policy C- 5: x C2.7 Policy C- 6: x C2.8 Program C-6: x C2.8.1 Program C-7: Complete Policy C- 7: x C2.9 Policy C- 8: x C2.10 Program C-8: x C Policy C- 9: x C5.1 Program C-9 x C5.1.1 Program C-10: x C5.1.2 Policy C- 10: x C5.2 Program C-11: x C5.2.1 Program C-12: x C5.2.2 Policy C- 11: x Policy Changed Program Program C-13: x C1.8.2 Program C-14: GOAL C-1: Effective and Efficient Delivery of Community Services. GOAL C-2: A Commitment to Excellence and High Quality Customer Service Among Officials and Employees. GOAL C-3: Improved Quality, Quantity, and Affordability of Social Services, Particularly for Children, Youth, Seniors, and People with Disabilities Not Applicable Policy C- 12: x C1.9 C1.8.1 Policy C- 13: x Policy Changed Program C1.9.1 Policy C- 14: Complete Policy C- 15: x C4.5 Program C-15: x C4.5.1 Program C-16: Complete Program C-17: Merged C- C Draft Comprehensive Plan 126

127 Community Services and Facilities Element MOVED TO OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Community Service Element Policy C- 16: x Program with C-16 Policy Policy C- 17: x C1.13 Program C-18: x C Policy C- 18: x C1.14 Policy C- 19: x C3.5 Policy C- 20: x C1.7 GOAL C-4: Attractive, Well-maintained Community Facilities That Serve Palo Alto Residents. Policy C- 21: x C3.1 Policy C- 22: x C4.3 Policy C- 23: x C1.16 Policy C- 24: x C3.2 Program C-19: x C3.2.2 Program C-20: x C3.2.8 Program C-21: x C3.2.6 Program C-22: x x C2.5.1 Policy C- 25: x C3.3 Policy C- 26: x C3.4 Program C-23: Repetitive Program C-24: x C2.5.2 Policy C- 27: x C4.7 Program C-25: x C4.7.1 Program C-26: x C4.7.2 Policy C- 28: x C4.9 GOAL C-5: Equal Access to Educational, Recreational, and Cultural Services for All Residents. Policy C- 29: x C4.8 Policy C- 30: x Merged with Policy C- C Policy C- 31: x C3.7 Policy C- 32: x Merged with Policy C- C Program C-27: x C3.6.1 Moved to other Elements=0 Policies & Programs Completed/Repetitive/ Not Applicable & Removed=6 Policies changed to Programs or merged=3 No Change= 15 Edited= 37 Total = 30 Policies and 22 Programs Draft Comprehensive Plan 127

128 NEW GOALS (5), POLICIES (21) AND PROGRAMS (52) ADDED GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS C1 C2 C3 C1.1 C2.1 C2.1.1 C3.1.1 C1.2 C1.2.1 C2.1.2 C3.2.1 C1.2.2 C2.5 C2.5.3 C3.2.3 C1.3 C1.3.1 C2.7.1 C3.2.4 C1.3.2 C C3.2.5 C1.3.3 C2.11 C C3.2.7 C1.4 C1.4.1 C C3.3.1 C1.4.2 C3.6.2 C1.5 C1.5.1 C3.6.3 C1.5.2 C3.6.4 C1.6 C1.6.1 C3.8 C1.6.2 C1.6.3 C1.6.4 C1.6.5 C1.7.1 C1.8 C1.10 C1.11 C C C C1.12 C C C C C C1.15 C1.17 C C4 C5 C4.1 C5.3 C5.3.1 C4.2 C4.3.1 C4.4 C4.4.1 C4.7.3 C4.7.4 C4.7.5 C4.8.1 C4.8.2 C4.9.1 C4.9.2 C4.10 C Draft Comprehensive Plan 128

129 Policies and Programs Deleted from the Community Services and Facilities Element Policy/Program # Policy/Program Language Status EFFICIENT SERVICE DELIVERY GOAL C-1: Effective and Efficient Delivery of Community Services. C05 Program Consider joint provision of library services with PAUSD. Complete C07 Program Require an assessment of school impacts prior to the approval of development projects that require legislative acts, including general plan amendments and zoning changes. Complete GOAL C-2: GOAL C-3: C14 Program CUSTOMER SERVICE A Commitment to Excellence and High Quality Customer Service Among City of Palo Alto Officials and Employees. SOCIAL SERVICES Improved Quality, Quantity, and Affordability of Social Services, Particularly for Children, Youth, Seniors, and People with Disabilities Work with the Child Care Advisory Committee to evaluate the feasibility of requiring child care impact assessments for proposed development projects. Not Applicable C14 Policy Encourage inter-generational interaction in providing solutions to child care needs. Complete C16 Program GOAL C-4: Create development incentives (such as increased floor area ratio or reduced parking requirements) for employers or developers who include child and/or senior care facilities in the design of new housing and commercial buildings. PARKS AND PUBLIC FACILITIES Attractive, Well-maintained Community Facilities That Serve Palo Alto Residents. Complete C23 Program GOAL C-5: Study and recommend methods of private and public financing for improved park maintenance, rehabilitation, and construction. ACCESS Equal Access to Educational, Recreational, and Cultural Services for All Residents Repetitive Draft Comprehensive Plan 129

130 Draft Comprehensive Plan 130

131 Natural and Urban Environment and Safety Element Draft Comprehensive Plan 131

132 Draft Comprehensive Plan 132

133 Highlights of Change The Natural Environment Element addresses the management of open land and natural resources in Palo Alto and the protection of life and property from natural hazards. It is one of the broadest elements of the Comprehensive Plan, encompassing four of the seven elements mandated by the State. The Element satisfies the State requirement for an Open Space Element by including policies describing the use of open space for the preservation of natural resources, the managed production of natural resources, outdoor recreation, and public health and safety. It satisfies the State requirement for a Conservation Element by including policies pertaining to creeks and riparian areas, wetlands, the urban forest, water resources, wildlife, air quality, hazardous materials, solid waste disposal, and energy. It satisfies the State requirement for a Safety Element through policies describing how exposure to natural hazards like earthquakes and fires will be reduced. Finally, it satisfies the Noise Element requirement through policies that reduce exposure to undesirable levels of noise in the community. New Name proposed for the Element is Natural and Urban Environment and Safety Element New Vision Statement Palo Alto shall preserve its ecosystems, including its open space, creeks, habitats, and air quality while working towards a sustainable urban environment of urban forests, water quality, waste disposal reduction, emergency preparedness, community safety and a plan for climate change mitigation. Proposed Element Structure The proposed element has eight goals while the existing element had ten. The format has been restructured, few goals have been merged and new topics have been introduced. The following is the new structure. N1-Natural Eco Systems (Includes Open Space, Creeks and Riparian Areas and Urban Forest) N2-Climate Change and Adaptation (New) N3-Energy Sources and Conservation Draft Comprehensive Plan 133

134 N4-Solid and Hazardous Waste N5-Water Quality and Conservation N6-Environmental Quality (includes Air Quality and Noise) N7-Natural Hazards N8-Safety and Emergency Management (New) Major New Concepts Added In the proposed draft the following new topics have been introduced Protection of sensitive habitat from human threat, balancing conservation with improved open space access and encouraging low impact recreational use; Monitoring and adapting to changes caused by climate change; Addressing state regulations requirements for transportation noise generated from roadways, airways, and railways, and limiting construction noise around sensitive receptors; and Community safety and emergency preparedness. A Summary of Changes Natural Environment Element had 55 Policies and 82 Programs 84% of the existing policies and programs are being carried over to the amended element; 15% of the existing policies and programs are deemed complete; 1 % of the policies and programs went through status change; 58% of the old policies and programs were edited; 26% of the old policies and programs were carried over with no change and Draft Comprehensive Plan 134

135 55 new policies and 85 new programs were added The draft Natural and Urban and Safety Environment Element has a total of 103 policies and 152 programs. Draft Comprehensive Plan 135

136 Draft Comprehensive Plan 136

137 NATURAL AND URBAN ENVIRONMENT AND SAFETY Proposed Vision ELEMENT Palo Alto shall preserve its ecosystems, including its open space, creeks, habitats, and air quality while working towards a sustainable urban environment of urban forests, water quality, waste disposal reduction, emergency preparedness, community safety and a plan for climate change mitigation. Existing Vision Palo Alto will meet today s needs without compromising the needs of future generations. Palo Alto will respect and manage natural resources in a way that sustains the natural environment and protects our foothills, baylands, creeks, parks, wildlife and open space legacy. Elements of the natural environment will be conserved where they remain intact and restored where they have been degraded by past development. A substantial portion of the City will remain as open space. Even in built-up areas, a network of parks will provide access to nature and an urban forest will provide ecological benefits and a source of beauty for residents. Palo Alto will strive for cleaner air and cleaner water. Its policies and programs will foster energy and water conservation, reduced solid waste generation, and cleanup of contaminated sites. The City will be well prepared for natural disasters and will grow and change in a way that minimizes public exposure to hazards like fire, flood, and earthquake. Draft Comprehensive Plan 137

138 NATURAL AND URBAN ENVIRONMENT AND SAFETY ELEMENT TABLE OF CONTENTS N1 NATURAL ECOSYSTEMS Preserve our open space, natural and urban habitats, and protect our ecosystems and natural resources that are the foundations of our environment Foothills, Bay Lands and Public Open Space Creeks and Riparian Areas Urban Forest N2 CLIMATE CHANGE AND ADAPTATION Actively support regional efforts to reduce our contribution to climate change while adapting to the effects of climate change on land use and city services N3 ENERGY SOURCES AND CONSERVATION Move towards a clean efficient energy supply that makes use of new technologies and cost-effective renewable resources and promote energy conservation N4 SOLID AND HAZARDOUS WASTE Strive for zero solid waste generation and an environment free of the harmful effects of hazardous and toxic materials Hazardous Materials Solid Waste N5 WATER QUALITY AND CONSERVATION Conserve water resources and protect water quality to support our natural environment, public health and safety, plant and animal life, and the vitality of our diverse urban activities Water Resources: Water Conservation, Recycling, and Quality Stormwater Quality Wastewater Treatment N6 ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY Reduce environmental pollutants to protect and enhance air quality and to reduce ambient noise levels in every neighborhood Air Quality Draft Comprehensive Plan 138

139 Noise Level Mitigation and Reduction N7 NATURAL HAZARDS Protect life, ecosystems, and property from natural and man-made hazards and disasters, including earthquake, landslides, flooding, fire, and hazardous materials Seismic Activity and Geologic Hazards Flood Hazards and Mitigation N8 COMMUNITY SAFETY AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT Develop and coordinate a plan for fire, police protection and effective emergency preparedness and response Public Awareness and General Safety Measures Fire Protection and Awareness Community Safety Emergency Management Draft Comprehensive Plan 139

140 NATURAL ECOSYSTEMS N1 GOAL PRESERVE OUR OPEN SPACE, NATURAL AND URBAN HABITATS, AND PROTECT OUR ECOSYSTEMS AND NATURAL RESOURCES THAT ARE THE FOUNDATIONS OF OUR ENVIRONMENT FOOTHILLS, BAYLANDS AND PUBLIC OPEN SPACE N1.1 POLICY Preserve, protect and enhance public and private open space and ecosystems of Palo Alto from the foothills to the baylands. (Previous Policy N-4) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N4: Preserve the foothill area as predominantly open space. N1.1.1 PROGRAM Fund, develop and implement Comprehensive Resource Conservation Plans for the Baylands, Byxbee Park, Pearson Arastradero Preserve, and Foothills Park to guide our stewardship and protection of native vegetation, wildlife and habitat, and human and domestic animal activities in sensitive areas. (New Program) N1.2 POLICY Support regional and sub-regional efforts to acquire, develop, operate, and maintain an open space system including land linkages and trail connections extending from Skyline Ridge to San Francisco Bay. (Previous Policy N-2) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N2: Support regional and sub-regional efforts to acquire, develop, operate, and maintain an open space system extending from Skyline Ridge to San Francisco Bay. N1.2.1 PROGRAM Prioritize City funding and seek additional sources of funding, including State and Federal programs, to finance open space acquisition, maintenance and conservation. (Previous Program N-4) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N4: Examine and improve management practices for natural habitat and open space areas, including the provision of access to open space for City vehicles and equipment, to ensure that natural resources are protected. N1.2.2 PROGRAM Work with Stanford University, Santa Clara County, Santa Clara Valley Water District and regional organizations to create multi-use trail connections between urban areas and open space including creeks and rights-of-way. (New Program) N1.3 POLICY Preserve Stanford University s lower foothill property predominantly within the City and act as an advocate to Stanford University and Santa Clara County to preserve the open space link between Stanford, the urban area, and the foothills. (Previous Policy N-5) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 140

141 PREVIOUS POLICY N5: Preserve Stanford s lower foothill property predominantly within the City, and act as an advocate to Santa Clara County for the preservation of the open space link between the urban area and the foothills. N1.4 POLICY Preserve and protect the bay, marshlands, salt ponds, sloughs, creeks, and other natural water or wetland areas as open space and functioning habitat. (Previous Policy N-8) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N8: Preserve and protect the Bay, marshlands, salt ponds, sloughs, creeks, and other natural water or wetland areas as open space. N1.5 POLICY Carefully manage access and use in environmentally sensitive areas including the baylands, foothills, and riparian corridors to ensure that the habitat and sensitive wildlife is protected. (Previous Program N-3), (Program changed to Policy) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N3: Review the need for access controls in environmentally sensitive areas, including the baylands, foothills, and riparian corridors. N1.5.1 PROGRAM Examine and improve existing management practices including the provision of access to open space for City vehicles and equipment to ensure that natural resources are protected. (Previous Program N-2) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N2: Examine and improve management practices for natural habitat and open space areas, including the provision of access to open space for City vehicles and equipment, to ensure that natural resources are protected. N1.6 POLICY Protect and preserve sensitive habitats and wildlife from impacts and threats by humans and nuisance animals. (New Policy) N1.6.1 PROGRAM Protect wildlife and park visitors by prohibiting feeding of all wildlife and feral animals in City Parks and open space areas. (New Program) N1.6.2 PROGRAM Protect wildlife from nuisance species by reducing availability of trash and using wildlife-proof trash containers in City parks and open spaces where practical and necessary. (New Program) N1.6.3 PROGRAM Reduce trash from the sensitive habitat and wildlife areas by enforcing restrictions on plastic bags, polystyrene food wares, any non-recyclable plastic packaging. (New Program) N1.6.4 PROGRAM Promote periodic litter clean-up events to protect sensitive habitat and wildlife areas. (New Program) N1.7 POLICY Protect sensitive plant and animal resources from the impacts of development. (Previous Policy N-3) (No Change) Draft Comprehensive Plan 141

142 N1.7.1 PROGRAM In designing new public infrastructure and private development, projects should consider opportunities for bird-safe design to minimize bird collision with windows and other man-made structures. (New Program) N1.7.2 PROGRAM Work cooperatively with Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society and other environmental groups and individuals dedicated to the welfare of birds in Palo Alto. (New Program) N1.8 POLICY Pursue opportunities to enhance and expand habitat for endangered and rare species. (New Policy) N1.8.1 PROGRAM Maintain wetlands to enhance habitat for endangered and rare species by insuring adequate flow from the bay and appropriately treated plant effluent flow to areas adjacent to Byxbee Park specifically, the Renzel Marsh and ITT Marsh. (New Program). N1.9 POLICY Support native plant restoration and conservation efforts in and around parks, riparian habitats and open space areas to encourage healthy, diverse ecosystems. (New Policy) N1.9.1 PROGRAM Examine and improve existing management practices to protect and support native wildlife and natural animal habitats in open space. (New Program) N1.9.2 PROGRAM Work cooperatively with community partners to control invasive plants, install native plants and provide other native habitat features. (New Program) N1.10 POLICY Manage existing public open space areas and encourage the management of private open space areas including agricultural land, golf courses, and land that provides habitat for wildlife in a manner that protects habitat and meets wildlife protection goals. (Previous Policy N-1) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N1: Manage existing public open space areas and encourage the management of private open space areas in a manner that meets habitat protection goals, public safety concerns, and low impact recreation needs. N PROGRAM Work to maintain Williamson Act agricultural preserves within the City. (Previous Program N-5) (No Change) N PROGRAM Continue to review and update as needed the Open Space (OS) zoning district regulations to ensure consistency with Comprehensive Plan policies. (Previous Program N-1) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N1: Review and update as needed the Open Space (OS) zoning district regulations to ensure consistency with Comprehensive Plan policies. N PROGRAM Utilize the Site and Design process and the Open Space zone district regulations to minimize impacts of any new development on views of the hillsides, on the Draft Comprehensive Plan 142

143 open space character, and the natural ecology of the hillsides and the Baylands. (Previous Policy N-6) (Changed to a program) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N6: Through implementation of the Site and Design process and the Open Space zone district regulations, minimize impacts of any new development on views of the hillsides, on the open space character, and the natural ecology of the hillsides. N1.11 POLICY In managing public lands and easements consider public safety concerns and provide limited low impact recreation opportunities where they are compatible with established conservation goals. (New Policy) N PROGRAM Review and map existing easements and maintenance roads for potential trails and trail connections. (New Program) N PROGRAM Implement the Foothills Fire Management Plan to balance conservation of natural resources with reduction of fire hazards especially in open space areas. (New Program) CREEKS AND RIPARIAN AREAS N1.12 POLICY Preserve and restore the integrity of riparian corridors in order to provide viable habitat for fish, birds, and other wildlife, and encourage the replacement of invasive, non-native plants with native plants. (Previous Policy N-11 & N-12) (Merged &Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N11: Preserve the integrity of riparian corridors. PREVIOUS POLICY N12: Preserve the habitat value of creek corridors through the preservation of native plants and the replacement of invasive, non-native plants with native plants. N PROGRAM Continue to work cooperatively with community partners to control invasive riparian plants, to install native plants and to provide other native habitat features. (New Program) N PROGRAM Provide incentives and eliminate barriers where possible to encourage restoration on privately owned creek banks. (New Program) N PROGRAM Require new development and redevelopment projects to use low impact development techniques to prevent increases in runoff flows. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 143

144 N1.13 POLICY Avoid fencing, piping and channelization of creeks when flood control and public safety can be achieved through measures that preserve the natural environment and habitat of the creek. (Previous Policy N-9) (No Change) N1.14 POLICY Work with the Santa Clara Valley Water District, San Francisquito Creek Joint Powers Authority and other relevant regional and nongovernmental agencies to enhance riparian corridors, provide compatible low impact recreation, and ensure adequate flood control by use of low impact restoration strategies. (Previous Policy N-10) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N10: Work with the Santa Clara Valley Water District and other relevant regional agencies to enhance riparian corridors and provide adequate flood control by use of low impact restoration strategies. N PROGRAM Work with the Santa Clara Valley Water District to develop a comprehensive riparian corridor restoration and enhancement program that identifies specific stretches of corridor to be restored, standards to be achieved, and sources of funding. Include provisions for tree planting to enhance natural habitat. (Previous Program N-11) (No Change) N PROGRAM Allow passive or intermittent outdoor activities and pedestrian, equestrian, and bicycle pathways where there are adequate setbacks to protect the natural riparian environment. (Previous Program N-7, Split) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N7: Adopt a setback along natural creeks that prohibits the siting of buildings and other structures, impervious surfaces, outdoor activity areas, and ornamental landscaped areas within 100 feet from the top of a creek bank. Allow passive or intermittent outdoor activities and pedestrian, equestrian, and bicycle pathways where there are adequate setbacks to protect the natural riparian environment. Within the setback area, provide border of native riparian vegetation at least 25 feet along the creek bank. N PROGRAM Participate cooperatively in the San Francisquito Creek Joint Powers Authority (JPA) to achieve increased flood protection, habitat preservation, enhancement and improved recreational opportunities along San Francisquito Creek. (Previous Program N-9) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N9: Participate in a San Francisquito Creek Coordinated Resource Management and Planning (CRMP) process with adjacent cities. N PROGRAM Work cooperatively with Santa Clara Valley Water District and other public agencies to assure flood protection, habitat preservation and enhancement, and improved recreational opportunities along San Francisquito, Matadero and Adobe Creeks. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 144

145 N PROGRAM Partner with appropriate agencies to consider the issue of how flood zones may need to be expanded as a result of sea level rise or of changes in creek channels due to increased likelihood of extreme storm events caused by climate change. (New Program) N1.15 POLICY Promote the stream protection goals of the Countywide Water Resources Protection Collaborative by reviewing and updating the Stream Corridor Protection ordinance to expand its applicability and scope. (New Policy) N PROGRAM Periodically review and revise the Stream Corridor Protection ordinance as needed to ensure its original goals are being achieved. (New Program) N PROGRAM Partner with San Francisquito Creek Joint Powers Authority and other relevant non-governmental organizations to establish public education programs on conservation of creeks and riparian areas and to reduce pollution to protect viable habitat for fish and wildlife. (Previous Program N-13) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N13: Establish public education programs regarding the conservation of creeks and riparian areas. URBAN FOREST N1.16 POLICY Use the Urban Forest Master Plan as the guiding document for all City decisions related to Palo Alto s urban forest. Ensure implementation of the monitoring plans stated in the Urban Forest Master Plan. (New Policy) N PROGRAM Periodically update the Urban Forest Master Plan and the City of Palo Alto s Tree Protection Ordinance to ensure policies and regulations remain relevant. (New Program) N1.17 POLICY Protect, revitalize, and expand Palo Alto s urban forest through public education, sensitive regulation, and a long-term financial commitment that is adequate to protect this resource to achieve environmentally sustainable goals. (Previous Policy N-14) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N14: Protect, revitalize, and expand Palo Alto s urban forest through public education, sensitive regulation, and a long-term financial commitment that is adequate to protect this resource. N PROGRAM Establish an interdepartmental ecosystem services coordinating group which makes recommendations to policymakers to improve urban forestry services and information for residents and businesses. (New Program) N PROGRAM Continue working with Canopy, other environmental nonprofit organizations and individuals dedicated to planting and protecting trees in Palo Alto. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 145

146 N PROGRAM Maintain criteria to qualify for Tree-City-USA designation and other achievable national recognition. (New Program) N PROGRAM Develop a formal program for the use of City s Urban Forestry Fund for replacement of trees. Establish a program to have replacement trees planted offsite when it is impractical to locate them onsite. (Previous Program N-16) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N16: Continue to require replacement of trees, including street trees lost to new development, and establish a program to have replacement trees planted offsite when it is impractical to locate them onsite. N PROGRAM Develop and implement a plan for maintenance, irrigation, and augmentation or replacement of trees in parking lots and City rights-of-way, as well as parks and open space where ecologically appropriate. (Previous Program N-17) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N17: Develop and implement a plan for maintenance, irrigation, and replacement of trees in parks, parking lots, and City rights-of-way. N PROGRAM Actively pursue funds to establish one or more tree planting programs that seek to achieve the objective of 50 percent tree canopy cover for streets, parks, and parking lots where ecologically appropriate. Review existing tree planting guidelines to ensure they achieve this objective. (Previous Programs N-19 & N-18 Merged) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N18: Actively pursue funding for tree planting. PREVIOUS PROGRAM N19: Establish one or more tree planting programs that seek to achieve the following objectives: 1) A 50 percent tree canopy cover for streets, parks, and parking lots. 2) The annual tree planting goals recommended by the Tree Task Force and adopted by the City N PROGRAM Increase the ecological value of the urban forest by enhancing the number and diversity of native tree species and reducing the number of invasive tree species. (New Program) N1.18 POLICY Protect and enhance the urban forest along El Camino Real and work towards its preservation. (New Policy) N1.19 POLICY Require new commercial, multi-unit, and single family housing projects to provide street trees and related irrigation systems. (Previous Policy N-15) (No Change) N1.20 POLICY Provide ongoing education for City staff, homeowners, contractors and developers regarding landscaping, tree maintenance practices, irrigation practices that protect the urban forest and the protection of bird species and their nests. (Previous Policy N-16) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 146

147 PREVIOUS POLICY N16: Provide ongoing education for City staff, homeowners, and developers regarding landscaping and irrigation practices that protect the urban forest. N PROGRAM Establish procedures to coordinate City review of projects that might impact the urban forest particularly by the Planning, Utilities and Public Works Departments. (Previous Program N-20) (No Change) N PROGRAM Develop procedures to educate the public as well as Planning, Utility and Public Works Department staff on ways to minimize adverse impacts of maintenance work on bird species and their nests. (New Program) N PROGRAM Continue to work cooperatively with the Palo Alto Unified School District and Stanford University to ensure that their tree planting and maintenance practices are consistent with City guidelines. (Previous Program N-21) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N21: Work cooperatively with the Palo Alto Unified School District so that their tree planting and maintenance practices are consistent with City guidelines. N1.21 POLICY Preserve and protect Regulated Trees, including heritage and protected trees, public trees and designated landscape trees on private and public properties. (Previous Policy N-17) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N17: Preserve and protect heritage trees, including native oaks and other significant trees, on public and private property. CLIMATE CHANGE AND ADAPTATION N2 GOAL ACTIVELY SUPPORT REGIONAL EFFORTS TO REDUCE OUR CONTRIBUTION TO CLIMATE CHANGE WHILE ADAPTING TO THE EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON LAND USES AND CITY SERVICES N2.1 POLICY Achieve and exceed City Council targeted goals for reductions in greenhouse gas emission levels from City operations and the community emissions. (New Policy) N2.2 POLICY Encourage regional planning, including the Sustainable Communities Strategy, to support local commitments to greenhouse gas reduction. (New Policy) N2.3 POLICY Pursue the goal of achieving zero net energy homes for all new detached or single-family residences by (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 147

148 N2.4 POLICY With guidance from the City s Climate Protection Plan and its subsequent updates and other future planning efforts, seek to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from City operations and from the community. (New Policy) N2.4.1 PROGRAM Periodically review progress toward implementing the Climate Protection Plan and determine where additional climate protection efforts can be undertaken. (New Program) N2.4.2 PROGRAM Every five years, or more frequently, update the Climate Protection Plan; this update shall include an updated greenhouse gas inventory and updated short, medium, and long-term emissions reduction goals. (New Program) N2.4.3 PROGRAM Following updates of the Climate Protection Plan, review relevant Elements of the Comprehensive Plan for consistency. (New Program) N2.4.4 PROGRAM Conduct a climate change review of the Zoning Ordinance and other relevant City codes to determine where they could be more supportive of the City s climate protection efforts, and update the codes to reflect those findings. (New Program) N2.4.5 PROGRAM Maximize energy efficiency through operations and facility maintenance and improvements at the Regional Water Quality Control Plant to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy use. (New Program) N2.5 POLICY The City shall monitor changes to sea level, temperatures, wildfire risk, and other potential changes, taking advantage of state and federal information, and use that information to adapt to the effects of climate change. (New Policy) N2.5.1 PROGRAM Prepare a Climate Adaptation Strategy to serve as a companion document to the Climate Protection Plan and identify the ways in which Palo Alto can respond to the predicted changes to its physical environment associated with climate change. (New Program) N2.6 POLICY Include in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) five year plan a priority for infrastructure improvements that address adaptation of critical facilities to climate change. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 148

149 ENERGY SOURCES AND CONSERVATION N3 GOAL MOVE TOWARDS A CLEAN, EFFICIENT ENERGY SUPPLY THAT MAKES USE OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES, COST EFFECTIVE RENEWABLE RESOURCES AND PROMOTE ENERGY CONSERVATION N3.1 POLICY Maximize the conservation and efficient use of energy in new and existing residences, businesses, and industries in Palo Alto. (Previous Policy N-47) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N47: Optimize energy conservation and efficiency in new and existing residences, businesses, and industries in Palo Alto. N3.1.1 PROGRAM Continue to provide public education programs addressing energy conservation and efficiency. (Previous Program N-64) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N64: Encourage establishment of public education programs addressing energy conservation and efficiency. N3.1.2 PROGRAM Implement a cost effective energy efficiency program, including for low income customers. (Previous Program N-63) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N63: Implement energy efficiency programs. N3.1.3 PROGRAM Incorporate cost-effective energy conservation measures into construction, maintenance, and City operation and procurement practices. (Previous Program N-65) (No Change) N3.1.4 PROGRAM Continue timely incorporation of State and Federal energy efficiency standards and policies in relevant City codes, regulations, and procedures. (Previous Program N-66) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N66: Incorporate state and federal energy efficiency standards and policies in relevant City codes, regulations and procedures. N3.2 POLICY Maintain Palo Alto s long-term supply of electricity and natural gas while transitioning to renewable energy and energy conservation. (Previous Policy N-44) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N44: Maintain Palo Alto s long-term supply of electricity and natural gas while addressing environmental and economic concerns. Draft Comprehensive Plan 149

150 N3.3 POLICY Encourage public infrastructure and private development projects to use life cycle analysis to minimize the consumption of energy and the production of greenhouse gasses over the life of the project. (New Policy) N3.4 POLICY Actively support the maximum economic use of solar electric (photovoltaic) energy, both as a renewable supply resource for the Electric Utility Portfolio and as an alternative form of local power generation. In addition, support the economic use of solar thermal energy for water heating, space heating and cooling uses in local buildings. (New Policy) N3.4.1 PROGRAM Explore changes to building and zoning codes to incorporate solar energy and heat pumps into major development projects, including City owned projects. (New Program) N3.4.2 PROGRAM Promote use of the top floors of new and existing structured automobile garages for installation of photovoltaic panels. (New Program) N3.4.3 PROGRAM Promote installation of Electric Vehicle chargers at appropriate locations throughout the City to encourage alternate energy use. (New Program) N3.5 POLICY Encourage renewable energy use by continuing to implement a dynamic 100% carbon neutral Renewable Portfolio Standard for electric service. (New Policy) N3.5.1 PROGRAM Continue use of the greenhouse gas neutral electrical supply through long-term supply contracts for renewable energy. (New Program) N3.5.2 PROGRAM Revise the Palo Alto Green program so it continues to promote the acquisition of renewable energy including California solar projects or purchase of carbon neutral gas supplies. (New Program) N3.5.3 PROGRAM Implement incentives for the adoption of cost-effective, alternative energy technologies from multiple fuel sources, to all customers. (New Program) N3.5.4 PROGRAM Monitor other utilities that successfully use alternative energy sources and seek funding for similar projects that would be appropriate in Palo Alto. (Previous Program N-68) (No Change) N3.5.5 PROGRAM Evaluate the potential for a cost-effective plan for transitioning to a completely carbon-neutral natural gas supply. (New Program) N3.5.6 PROGRAM Explore opportunities to maximize the utilization of gas resources obtained from the Palo Alto Landfill. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 150

151 N3.6 POLICY Continually evaluate and revise forecasts for electric power demand. Pursue adequate low cost supplies to meet this demand by participating in cost effective programs offered by Northern California Power Agency (NCPA) or other suppliers and marketers of energy. (Previous Policy N-45) (No Change) N3.6.1 PROGRAM Implement gas and electric rate structures that reflect the cost of service and balance other rate-making objectives, such as encouraging efficiency and providing a market price signal to customers. (Previous Program N-62) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N62: Implement gas and electric rate structures that encourage energy conservation and that are in balance with other rate- making objectives, such as providing competitive rates. Set rates to achieve a balance between actual service costs, market prices, and the goal of promoting conservation and efficient use. Continue to provide a baseline service rate. N3.7 POLICY Retain the ability to purchase supplemental gas and electric power from other potential providers to remain competitive in the marketplace. (Previous Policy N-46) (No Change) N3.8 POLICY Support the development of technologies that use organic materials (e.g. food scraps, yard trimmings and residual solids from sewage treatment) to create biogas thereby maximizing the energy recovery from these waste products. (New Policy) N3.8.1 PROGRAM Evaluate energy efficient approaches for the treatment and reuse of biosolids that maximize resource recovery and reduce greenhouse gas generation at the Regional Water Quality Control Plant located in Palo Alto. (New Program) SOLID AND HAZARDOUS WASTE N4 GOAL STRIVE FOR ZERO SOLID WASTE GENERATION AND AN ENVIRONMENT FREE OF THE HARMFUL EFFECTS OF HAZARDOUS AND TOXIC MATERIALS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS N4.1 POLICY Discourage the use of toxic and hazardous materials. Promote the use of alternative materials and practices that are environmentally benign. (Previous Policy N-30) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 151

152 PREVIOUS POLICY N30: Minimize the use of toxic and hazardous materials. Encourage the use of alternative materials and practices that are environmentally benign. N4.1.1 PROGRAM Continue to provide information to the public regarding commonly used hazardous materials, environmentally preferable alternatives, and safe recycling and disposal practices to all user groups. (Previous Program N-46) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N46: Provide information to all user groups about: 1) commonly used hazardous materials; 2) more environmentally friendly alternatives; and 3) safe recycling and disposal methods. N4.1.2 PROGRAM Continue City permitting procedures for commercial and industrial storage, use, and handling of hazardous materials. (Previous Program N-47) (No Change) N4.1.3 PROGRAM Continue providing regular household hazardous waste collection events at the Palo Alto Regional Water Quality Control Plant and strive to make these programs more convenient and accessible to residents. (Previous Program N-48) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N48: Continue sponsoring a regular household hazardous waste collection event. N4.1.4 PROGRAM Continue the program that allows small quantity generators to dispose of hazardous waste at cost. (Previous Program N-50) (No Change) N4.2 POLICY Continue working with appropriate agencies to clean up hazardous waste sites and contaminated groundwater. (Previous Policy N-31) (No Change) N4.3 POLICY Support public agency policies, regulations, legislation, and programs that implement the Santa Clara County s Hazardous Materials Management Programs. (Previous Policy N-32) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N32: Support public agency policies, regulations, legislation, and programs that implement the Santa Clara County Hazardous Waste Management Plan. N4.3.1 PROGRAM Support local, state and national efforts to implement the Extended Producer Responsibility program on the largest scale possible. (New Program) N4.4 POLICY Protect City authority for the approval or denial of proposed commercial hazardous waste treatment, storage, or disposal facilities in the City. Continue to support the concept of fair share agreements between counties in the siting of such facilities. (Previous Policy N-33) (No Change) Draft Comprehensive Plan 152

153 SOLID WASTE N4.5 POLICY Eliminate solid waste disposal to landfills or incinerators by reducing the amount of waste generated, promoting reuse and maximizing recycling and composting. (Previous Policy N-34) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N34: Reduce the amount of solid waste disposed in the City s landfill by reducing the amount of waste generated and promoting the cost-effective reuse of materials that would otherwise be placed in a landfill. N4.5.1 PROGRAM Encourage residential and commercial food waste reduction through incentives, educational outreach and programs. (New Program) N4.5.2 PROGRAM Continue to promote household composting. Consider extending composting to include food wastes. (Previous Program N-52) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N52: Improve City composting practices and continue promoting a household composting program. N4.5.3 PROGRAM Continue to develop and improve recycling and composting programs for all waste generators. (Previous Program N-53) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N53: Continue to develop source separation programs for recyclable solid waste materials for all waste generators. N4.5.4 PROGRAM Continue to develop long-term solid waste management programs that include safe and environmentally sound disposal methods. (Previous Program N-54) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N54: Continue to develop long-term solid waste management programs that include safe and environmentally sound disposal methods such as the SMaRT Station. N4.5.5 PROGRAM Promote organics processing alternatives that create usable products like compost and energy (New Program) N4.5.6 PROGRAM To the extent allowed by law, use refuse rate structures that incentivize waste reduction. (Previous Program N-51) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N51: Regularly review the landfill fee structure to ensure that it encourages a reduction in solid waste disposal. N4.6 POLICY Promote programs that improve environmentally and socially responsible domestic processing and marketability of recycled materials. (New Policy) N4.7 POLICY Increase program participation to maximize recycling and composting from all residents, businesses, and institutions. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 153

154 N4.8 POLICY Reduce solid waste generation through salvage and reuse of building materials, including architecturally and historically significant materials. (Previous Policy N-35) (No Change) N4.8.1 PROGRAM Periodically review and update the adopted Construction and Debris program. (New Program) N4.8.2 PROGRAM Educate Palo Alto residents and developers about available incentives provided by other jurisdictions and agencies to use environmental friendly deconstruction activities to minimize our carbon footprint, to save natural resources, as well as space in our landfills. (New Program) N4.9 POLICY Encourage the use of reusable, returnable, recyclable, and repairable goods through incentives, educational displays and activities and through City purchasing policies and practices. (Previous Policy N-36) (No Change) N4.10 POLICY Support state and federal legislation encouraging the use of recyclable and recycled content goods. (Previous Policy N-38) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N38: Support state and federal legislation encouraging the use of recyclable goods. N4.11 POLICY Continue and expand environmentally preferred purchasing efforts through the ongoing implementation of the City s Environmentally Preferred Purchasing policy and programs to reduce waste, toxic product use, resource consumption and to maximize energy efficiency. (New Policy) N4.12 POLICY Restrict the use of single use plastic water bottles at City sponsored events and functions and encourage reusable water bottles. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 154

155 WATER QUALITY AND CONSERVATION N5 GOAL CONSERVE WATER RESOURCES AND PROTECT WATER QUALITY TO SUPPORT OUR NATURAL ENVIRONMENT, PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY, PLANT AND ANIMAL LIFE, AND THE VITALITY OF OUR DIVERSE URBAN ACTIVITIES WATER RESROUCES: WATER CONSERVATION, RECYCLING, AND QUALITY N5.1 POLICY Secure a reliable, long-term supply of water for Palo Alto, including enhancing our emergency storage and supply system. (Previous Policy N- 19) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N19: Secure a reliable, long-term supply of water for Palo Alto. N5.1.1 PROGRAM Regularly review the water rate structure to ensure that it covers fixed costs based on cost of service studies and encourages conservation and efficiency. (Previous Program N-23) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N23: Regularly review the water rate structure to ensure that it encourages efficiency and is competitive. N5.2 POLICY Support the Santa Clara Valley Water District as needed to implement their mandate to protect groundwater from the adverse impacts of urban uses. (Previous Policy N-18) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N18: Protect Palo Alto s groundwater from the adverse impacts of urban uses. N5.2.1 PROGRAM Work with the Santa Clara Valley Water District to identify and map key groundwater recharge areas for use in land use planning and permitting and the protection of groundwater resources. (Previous Program N-22) (No Change) N5.2.2 PROGRAM Work with other neighboring jurisdictions and communities to protect ground water. (New Program) N5.3 POLICY Conservation and efficient use of water by all customers shall be encouraged through a diverse portfolio of education, rebates, assistance programs, and building requirements. (New Policy) N5.3.1 PROGRAM Maintain citywide water conservation and efficiency programs for all customers including low income customers. Funding shall be provided for programs to customer classes in roughly the same proportion as these groups of customers pay for water services. (Previous Program N-24) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 155

156 PREVIOUS PROGRAM N24: Maintain citywide water conservation and efficiency programs for all customer classes. N5.3.2 PROGRAM Where practical, incorporate Federal, State, and other agency policies and standards for water efficiency into City codes, regulations, and procedures. (Previous Program N-25) (No Change) N5.3.3 PROGRAM Encourage residential and commercial property owners to conserve water by modeling best practices including replacing inefficient plumbing fixtures in buildings, installing drought tolerant landscape and harvesting rain water. (New Program) N5.4 POLICY Utilize recycled water where cost effective to meet water needs in order to move toward locally sustainable water supplies. Minimize energy use in treating and delivering recycled water. (New Policy) N5.4.1 PROGRAM Promote the use of salt-tolerant native species and require separate irrigation systems that can accept recycled water for landscape irrigation for larger developments. (Previous Program N-26) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N26: Implement incentives for the use of drought-tolerant landscaping and recycled water for landscape irrigation. N5.4.2 PROGRAM Partner with local, regional, and statewide agencies to expand the use of recycled water. (New Program) N5.5 POLICY Reduce salinity concentrations in recycled water to maximize the use of recycled water on the widest variety of green plants. (New Policy) N5.6 POLICY Improve source control and treatment of recycled water to maximize its use. (New Policy) STORMWATER QUALITY N5.7 POLICY Reduce pollution in urban runoff from residential, commercial, industrial, municipal, and transportation land uses and activities. (Previous Policy N- 21) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N21: Reduce non-point source pollution in urban runoff from residential, commercial, industrial, municipal, and transportation land uses and activities. Draft Comprehensive Plan 156

157 N5.7.1 PROGRAM Work with regulatory agencies, environmental groups, affected businesses, and other stakeholders to identify economically viable Best Management Practices (BMPs) for reducing storm water pollution. Participate in Best Management Practices pilot studies to identify new pollution control measures. (Previous Program N- 27) (No Change) N5.7.2 PROGRAM Continue public education programs on water quality issues, including Best Management Practices for residents, businesses, contractors, and City employees. (Previous Program N-28) (No Change) N5.7.3 PROGRAM Actively participate in programs such as the Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program to improve the quality of storm water runoff. (Previous Program N-29) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N29: Actively participate in programs such as the Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Control program to improve the quality of storm water runoff. N5.7.4 PROGRAM Conduct regular streetsweeping to collect trash and road surface pollutants before they enter storm water runoff. (Previous Program N-30) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N30: Conduct regular street-sweeping to minimize road surface pollutant runoff. N5.7.5 PROGRAM Evaluate spill response, cleanup, and follow-up investigation procedures to reduce the impacts of toxic spills on water quality in the City's creeks and San Francisco Bay. (Previous Program N-31) (No Change) N5.7.6 PROGRAM Participate in and support statewide and national programs and initiatives to reduce the amount of copper and other toxic metals contained in brake pads, tires and other automotive parts thus reducing urban runoff pollution. (Previous Program N-32) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N32: Actively work to reduce the amount of metals contained in brake pads, tires, and other automotive parts, thereby reducing urban runoff pollution from metals. Continue Palo Alto's leadership role in encouraging the re-engineering of vehicles to reduce pollution N5.7.7 PROGRAM Enforce the ordinance restricting use of architectural copper, thereby reducing urban runoff pollution. (New Program) N5.7.8 PROGRAM Retain and utilize rainwater on site to the extent possible. Use native or simulated natural drainage systems for buffers and filtration to the extent possible. (New Program) N5.7.9 PROGRAM Promote efforts to control litter and illegal dumping. (New Program) N PROGRAM Prevent sanitary sewer overflows to ensure compliance with applicable state and federal requirements and to avoid pollution of surface or groundwater (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 157

158 N5.8 POLICY Limit the amount of impervious surface in new development or public improvement projects to reduce urban runoff into storm drains, creeks, and San Francisco Bay. (Previous Policy N-22) (No Change) N5.8.1 PROGRAM Promote the use of permeable paving materials that allow for natural percolation and site drainage through a Stormwater Rebate Program and other incentives. (Previous Program N-34) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N34: Evaluate the use of permeable paving materials that allow for natural percolation and site drainage. N5.9 POLICY Improve storm drainage performance by constructing new system improvements where necessary and replacing undersized or otherwise inadequate lines with larger lines or parallel lines. (Previous Policy N-24) (No Change) N5.9.1 PROGRAM Using Storm Drainage Fund revenue generated by the approved 2005 ballot measure and potential subsequent measures, complete improvements to the storm drainage system consistent with the priorities outlined in the City's 1993 Storm Drainage Master Plan. (Previous Program N-36) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N36: Complete improvements to the storm drainage system consistent with the priorities outlined in the City's 1993 Storm Drainage Master Plan, provided that an appropriate funding mechanism is identified and approved by the City Council. N5.10 POLICY Promote the inclusion of Low Impact Development (LID) measures such as rainwater harvesting and storm runoff infiltration in private developments and public improvement projects, when feasible, as required by the City s storm water discharge permit. (New Policy) N5.11 POLICY Maintain and improve implementation of the City s Integrated Pest Management Policy with periodic assessments of pesticide use and use of Best Management Practices to reduce pesticide applications and toxicity, and maximize non-chemical control (New Policy) N PROGRAM (New Program) Continue promoting sustainable low impact landscaping practices. Draft Comprehensive Plan 158

159 WASTEWATER TREATMENT N5.12 POLICY Reduce the discharge of toxic materials into the City s sanitary sewer collection system by promoting the use of Best Management Practices and reducing pollutant levels in City wastewater discharges. (Previous Policy N-23 & Policy N-25 Merged) (Merged and Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N23: Reduce the discharge of toxic materials into the City s sanitary sewer collection system by promoting the use of Best Management Practices. PREVIOUS POLICY N25: Reduce pollutant levels in City wastewater discharges. N PROGRAM Continue to work on educating residents on the proper disposal of pharmaceutical waste and household hazardous waste. (New Program) N PROGRAM Work with commercial and industrial dischargers to identify and implement pollution prevention measures and Best Management Practices to eliminate or reduce the discharge of metals and other pollutants of concern. (Previous Program N- 35) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N35: Work with commercial and industrial dischargers to recover metals on-site rather than discharging them into the sanitary sewer system. N PROGRAM Provide incentives to encourage commercial dischargers to consistently go beyond minimum requirements of the Clean Bay Business Program. (New Program) N PROGRAM Continue public education programs on water quality issues, including Best Management Practices for residents, businesses, contractors, and City employees. (New Program) N5.13 POLICY Provide, maintain, and operate wastewater treatment facilities, including maintaining adequate capacity at the Regional Water Quality Control Plant located in Palo Alto to accommodate projected economic and population growth. Ensure that the plant operates in compliance with applicable local, State, and Federal clean water, clean air, and health and safety regulatory requirements. (New Policy) N PROGRAM Implement approved recommendations based on the Long-Term Facilities Plan prepared for the Regional Water Quality Control Plant. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 159

160 ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY N6 GOAL REDUCE ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTANTS TO PROTECT AND ENHANCE AIR QUALITY AND TO REDUCE AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS IN EVERY NEIGHBORHOOD AIR QUALITY N6.1 POLICY Support regional, State, and Federal programs that improve air quality in the Bay Area. (Previous Policy N-26) (No Change) N6.1.1 PROGRAM Provide City input on significant proposals for air quality legislation and State implementation plans. (Previous Program N-38) (No Change) N6.1.2 PROGRAM Assist the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) in its efforts to achieve compliance with existing air quality regulations. (Previous Program N- 39) (No Change) N6.1.3 PROGRAM Expand the use of alternative fuels for City vehicles and establish a program to encourage expanded use of such fuels in private vehicles. (Previous Program N-40) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N40: Expand the use of alternative fuels for City vehicles and establish a program to encourage expanded use of such fuels in private vehicles. To support this program, encourage the development of alternative fuel infrastructure (for instance, electric plug-ins) in parking facilities and other key locations around the City. N6.1.4 PROGRAM Support legislative programs that result in the removal of the oldest and dirtiest vehicles on the roadway. (Previous Program N-41) (No Change) N6.2 POLICY Reduce emission of particulates from wood burning stoves, construction activity, automobiles, and other sources. (Previous Policy N-27) (No Change) N6.2.1 PROGRAM Prohibit new indoor wood-burning stoves or fireplaces. Require replaced wood-burning stoves or fireplace inserts to comply with EPA-approved standards. (Previous Program N-42) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N42: Require all new wood-burning stoves or fireplace inserts to comply with EPA-approved standards. N6.2.2 PROGRAM Provide homeowners with information outlining low emission alternatives to wood-burning stoves and fireplaces. (Previous Program N-43) (No Change) Draft Comprehensive Plan 160

161 N6.2.3 PROGRAM Enforce the ordinance controlling installation of wood burning appliances. Distribute information to residents on Best Management Practices for use of wood burning appliances. (New Program) N6.2.4 PROGRAM Provide incentives and encourage homeowners to convert or replace wood-burning fireplaces with gas-burning fireplaces based on Cal Green code specifications. (New Program) N6.2.5 PROGRAM Evaluate a program to provide incentives for replacing natural gas powered appliances with electric appliances. (New Program) N6.2.6 PROGRAM Recommend revisions to proposed projects as needed to reduce air quality impacts, including improvements that reduce single occupant vehicle use. (Previous Program N-45) (No Change) N6.3 POLICY All potential sources of odor and/or toxic air contaminants should be adequately buffered, mechanically or otherwise mitigated, to avoid odor and toxic impacts that violate human health standards. (Previous Policy N-29) (No Change) N6.4 POLICY Reduce air pollution by maintaining tree canopy size targets for parking lots and streets to provide dust abatement and reduce surface or hardscape material degradation. (New Policy) NOISE LEVEL MITIGATION AND REDUCTION Interior and Exterior Noise N6.5 POLICY Encourage the location of land uses in areas with compatible noise environments. Evaluate the compatibility of proposed land uses with the existing noise environments when preparing, revising, or reviewing development proposals. Use the guidelines in Table N-XX to determine compatibility. Acceptable exterior, interior and ways to discern noise exposure include: (Previous Policy N-39) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N39: Encourage the location of land uses in areas with compatible noise environments. Use the guidelines in the table Land Use Compatibility for Community Noise Environment to determine compatibility. For exterior noise, the guideline for normally acceptable noise levels in residential areas is an Ldn of 60 dba. This level is a guideline for the design and location of future development and a goal for the reduction of noise in existing development. However, 60 dba Ldn is a guideline which cannot necessarily be reached in all residential areas within the constraints of economic or aesthetic feasibility. This guideline will be primarily applied where outdoor use is a major consideration (e.g., backyards in single family housing developments and recreational areas in multiple Draft Comprehensive Plan 161

162 family housing projects). Where the City determines that providing an Ldn of 60 dba or lower outdoors is not feasible, the noise level in outdoor areas intended for recreational use should be reduced to as close to the standard as feasible through project design. For interior noise, the requirements of the State of California Building Standards Code (Title 24) and the Noise Insulation Standards (Title 25) are extended to all new dwelling units in Palo Alto. Specifically, interior levels for all habitable rooms must not exceed an Ldn of 45 dba in all new dwelling units in Palo Alto. Noise exposure(s) can be determined from (a) the noise contour map included in this plan, (b) more detailed noise exposure studies, or (c) on area-specific or projectspecific noise measurements, as appropriate. N6.6 POLICY Encourage the application of site planning and architectural design techniques that reduce overall noise pollution and reduce noise impacts on proposed and existing projects within Palo Alto and in surrounding communities. (Previous Policy N-40) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N40: Evaluate the potential for noise pollution and ways to reduce noise impacts when reviewing development and activities in Palo Alto and surrounding communities. N6.7 POLICY For all future residential projects greater than four dwelling units that are proposed to be within the 65 dba Ldn noise contours, as depicted on Map N-4, an acoustical analysis prepared by a qualified acoustical consultant shall be submitted to the City as part of the entitlement review application. As part of the above acoustical analysis, require that projects include appropriate layout, structural, and/or architectural design features to ensure meeting the interior noise standards of the City and State codes. (New Policy) N6.8 POLICY When a proposed project is subject to the California Environmental Quality Act, the noise impact of the project on existing residential land uses should be evaluated in terms of the increase in existing noise levels and potential for adverse community impact, regardless of existing background noise levels. If an area is below the applicable maximum noise guideline, an increase in noise up to the maximum should not necessarily be allowed. A project should be considered to cause a significant degradation of the noise environment if it meets any of the following criteria: (Previous Policy N-41) (Edited) In residential areas in which the existing Ldn is below 60 dba, a proposed project would cause the Ldn to increase by 5.0 db or more AND the Ldn remained below 60 dba; Draft Comprehensive Plan 162

163 In residential areas in which the existing Ldn is below 60 dba, a proposed project would cause the Ldn to increase by 3.0 db or more AND would also cause the Ldn in the area to exceed 60 dba; In residential areas in which the existing Ldn is currently above 60 dba, a proposed project would cause the Ldn to increase by 3.0 db or more. PREVIOUS POLICY N41: When a proposed project is subject to CEQA, the noise impact of the project on existing residential land uses should be evaluated in terms of the increase in existing noise levels and potential for adverse community impact, regardless of existing background noise levels. If an area is below the applicable maximum noise guideline, an increase in noise up to the maximum should not necessarily be allowed. A project should be considered to cause a significant degradation of the noise environment if it meets any of the following criteria: The project would cause the average 24-hour noise level (Ldn) to increase by 5.0 db or more in an existing residential area, even if the Ldn would remain below 60 db; The project would cause the Ldn to increase by 3.0 db or more in an existing residential area, thereby causing the Ldn in the area to exceed 60 db; The project would cause an increase of 3.0 db or more in an existing residential area where the Ldn currently exceeds 60 db. N6.9 POLICY The City may require measures to reduce noise impacts of development on adjacent properties through appropriate means including, but not limited to, the following: (Previous Policy N-42) (Edited) Orient buildings to shield noise sensitive outdoor spaces from sources of noise. Construct noise walls only when other methods to reduce noise are not practical. Screen and control noise sources such as parking lots, outdoor activities, and mechanical equipment. Increase landscaped setbacks to serve as a buffer between noise sources and adjacent structures. Whenever possible, retain fences, walls or landscaping that serve as noise buffers while balancing these measures related to design, safety and other impacts. Use soundproofing materials, noise reduction construction techniques, and/or acoustically rated windows/doors. Control hours of operation, including deliveries and trash pickup, to minimize noise impacts. PREVIOUS POLICY N42: The City may require proposals to reduce noise impacts of development on adjacent properties through appropriate means including, but not limited to, the following: Construct noise walls when compatible with aesthetic concerns. Screen and control noise sources such as parking, outdoor activities and mechanical equipment. Draft Comprehensive Plan 163

164 Increase setbacks for noise sources from adjacent dwellings. Whenever possible, retain fences, walls or landscaping that serve as noise buffers although design, safety and other impacts must be addressed. Use soundproofing materials and double-glazed windows. Control hours of operation, including deliveries and trash pickup, to minimize noise impacts. N6.10 POLICY Protect the overall community and especially-sensitive noise receptors, including schools, hospitals, convalescent homes, and senior-care facilities, from unacceptable noise levels from both existing and future noise sources. (Previous Policy N-43) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N43: Protect the community and especially sensitive noise receptors, including schools, hospitals, and senior care facilities, from excessive noise. N PROGRAM Continue working to reduce noise impacts created by events and activities taking place in communities adjoining Palo Alto. (Previous Program N-58) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N58: Continue to work to reduce noise impacts created by events and activities taking place in adjoining communities. N PROGRAM Evaluate and update the Noise Ordinance, as needed, to provide for clear interpretation of the regulations, to review the appropriateness of existing standards, and to ensure that regulations address contemporary issues. (Previous Program N-60) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N60: Update the Noise Ordinance to provide for clear interpretation of the regulations, and to review the appropriateness of existing standards. Strictly enforce the Noise Ordinance. N PROGRAM Evaluate changes to the Noise Ordinance to lower allowable noise levels from leaf blowers including considering whether to require electric leaf blowers as a lowernoise solution. (Previous Program N-61) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N61: Evaluate changes to the Noise Ordinance to reduce the impact of leaf blower noise. N PROGRAM Evaluate the feasibility of adopting noise criteria for the purchase of new City vehicles and equipment. (Previous Program N-59) (No Change) Transportation Noise Roadways N6.11 POLICY Whenever practical, install pavement surfaces that reduce noise from vehicular travel on roadways. (New Policy) N6.12 POLICY Prioritize maintaining smooth street surfaces near land uses that are sensitive to noise intrusion. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 164

165 N6.13 POLICY Minimize roadway noise through prudent street, flow, and right-of-way design including reducing speed limits along high-volume arterials and reducing points of acceleration in noise-sensitive areas. (New Policy) N6.14 POLICY Require noise mitigation measures where sensitive uses are to be placed along transportation routes to ensure compliance with state and local sound insulation standards. (New Policy) Transportation Noise Airway N6.15 POLICY Ensure compliance with the airport related land use compatibility standards for community noise environments, shown in Table N-XX, by prohibiting incompatible land use development within the 60 dba CNEL noise contours of the Palo Alto airport. (New Policy) N PROGRAM Continue working with the Santa Clara County Airports Department to reduce noise associated with operations of the Palo Alto Airport. Ensure compliance with the land use compatibility standards for community noise environments, shown in Table N-XX, by prohibiting incompatible land use development within the 60 dba CNEL noise contours of the airport. (New Program) N PROGRAM Participate in appropriate public forums to ensure that future activities at large commercial airports in the region do not negatively affect noise levels in Palo Alto. (Previous Program N-56) (No Change) Transportation Noise Railway N6.16 POLICY Minimize noise spillover from rail related activities into adjacent residential or noise-sensitive areas. (New Policy) N PROGRAM Encourage the Peninsula Corridors Joint Powers Board to pursue technologies and grade separations that would reduce or eliminate the need for train horns/whistles in communities served by rail service. (Previous Program N-57) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N57: Encourage the Joint Powers Board to pursue technologies to reduce train whistle noise in communities served by CalTrain. N PROGRAM Evaluate changing at-grade rail crossings so that they qualify as Quiet Zones based on Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) rules and guidelines in order to mitigate the effects of train horn noise without adversely affecting safety at railroad crossings. (New Program) N6.17 POLICY Reduce impacts from noise and ground borne vibrations associated with rail operations by requiring that future development of habitable buildings address the following: Draft Comprehensive Plan 165

166 Construction Noise Be sited at least 100 feet from the centerline of the tracks whenever feasible; Interior noise level of up to 45 dba Ldn, with windows closed must be ensured through structural design. For habitable buildings located within 100 feet from the centerline of railroad tracks, developments shall provide a detailed noise impact analysis, prepared by a qualified acoustical consultant technician, demonstrating that noise and ground borne vibration issues associated with rail operations have been adequately addressed (i.e., by building siting or construction techniques). This study must demonstrate that an interior noise level of 45 dba Ldn will not be exceeded with windows closed. Provide a detailed vibration impact analysis, prepared by a qualified acoustical consultant, demonstrating that ground-borne vibration levels will not exceed 72 VdB (relative to 1 microinch/sec) at residential buildings or 65 VdB at buildings with vibration-sensitive uses 1. (New Policy) N6.18 POLICY Require a detailed construction noise impact analysis, prepared by a qualified acoustical consultant, for all projects that require discretionary approval and that are located within 100 feet of any noise sensitive land uses. If impacts are identified, require a noise monitoring plan to be prepared and submitted prior to the issuance of construction permits. This plan shall identify the monitoring locations, durations and regularity, the instrumentation to be used, and the appropriate noise control measures that will be incorporated to ensure compliance with the noise ordinance. (New Policy) N6.19 POLICY Continue to prioritize construction noise limits around sensitive receptors. (New Policy) 1 Vibration-sensitive uses would include manufacturing, research, or medical facilities that used vibrationsensitive equipment, concert halls, or TV/recording studios. Draft Comprehensive Plan 166

167 TABLE N-XX LAND USE COMPATIBILITY STANDARDS FOR COMMUNITY NOISE ENVIRONMENTS Land Use Category Community Noise Exposure in Decibels (CNEL) Day/Night Average Noise Level in Decibels (Ldn) Residential Low Density Single-Family, Duplex, Mobile Homes Residential Multi-Family Transient Lodging Motels, Hotels Schools, Libraries, Churches, Hospitals, Nursing Homes Auditoriums, Concert Halls, Amphitheaters Sports Arena, Outdoor Spectator Sports Playgrounds, Neighborhood Parks Golf Courses, Riding Stables, Water Recreation, Cemeteries Office Buildings, Business Commercial and Professional Industrial, Manufacturing, Utilities, Agriculture NORMALLY ACCEPTABLE Specified land use is satisfactory, based upon the assumption that any buildings involved are of normal conventional construction, without any special noise insulation requirements. CONDITIONALLY ACCEPTABLE New construction or development should be undertaken only after a detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements is made and needed noise insulation features included in the design. Source: State of California General Plan Guidelines, 2003, modified by The Planning Center DC&E. NORMALLY UNACCEPTABLE New construction or development should be discouraged. If new construction or development does proceed, a detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements must be made and needed noise insulation features included in the design. CLEARLY UNACCEPTABLE New construction or development clearly should not be undertaken. Draft Comprehensive Plan 167

168 NATURAL HAZARDS N7 GOAL PROTECT LIFE, ECOSYSTEMS, AND PROPERTY FROM NATURAL AND MAN-MADE HAZARDS AND DISASTERS, INCLUDING EARTHQUAKE, LANDSLIDES, FLOODING, FIRE, AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SEISMIC ACTIVITY AND GEOLOGIC HAZARDS N7.1 POLICY Expand citizen awareness of seismic and geologic hazards through public education and preparedness. (New Policy) N7.1.1 PROGRAM Continue the City s participation in regional earthquake awareness programs such as the Annual Great Shake Out and other relevant efforts to educate the public. (New Program) N7.1.2 PROGRAM Continue and strengthen earthquake preparedness activities with Palo Alto Unified School District. (New Program) N7.2 POLICY Minimize exposure to geologic hazards, including slope instability, subsidence, and expansive soils, and to seismic hazards, including ground shaking, fault rupture, liquefaction, and land sliding. (Previous Policy N- 51) (No Change) N7.2.1 PROGRAM Review and update, as appropriate, City code requirements for excavation, grading, and filling to ensure that they conform to currently accepted standards. (Previous Program N-74) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N74: Review and update, as appropriate, City code requirements for excavation, grading, and filling to ensure that they conform to currently accepted standards. Recover the cost of this work through grading permit fees. N7.2.2 PROGRAM As part of the construction permitting process, require preparation and submittal to the City of a geotechnical report for proposed development and redevelopment in areas of identified hazard shown on Figure XX in order to identify associated risks and appropriate mitigation measures. (Previous Program N-73) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N73: Require preparation of a report from a engineering geologist that reviews geologic, soils, and engineering reports for development in hazard areas. Establish appropriate fees to cover the cost of this review. N7.2.3 PROGRAM (New Program) Periodically review and update the City s Seismic Hazard Ordinance. N7.3 POLICY Promote rehabilitation and renovation of older buildings using incentives as a way to ensure safe and structurally sound buildings. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 168

169 N7.3.1 PROGRAM Continue to provide appropriate incentives for seismic retrofits of structures in the University Avenue/Downtown area. (Previous Program N-70) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N70: Continue to provide incentives for seismic retrofits of structures in the University Avenue/Downtown area. N7.3.2 PROGRAM Allow development rights achieved through seismic upgrading of specified sites to be transferred to designated eligible receiver sites. (Previous Program N-71) (No Change) N7.3.3 PROGRAM Study the possibility of making revisions to the program which allows transfer of development rights by establishing a sunset date rights achieved through seismic upgrading of specified sites. (New Program) N7.3.4 PROGRAM Explore using Community Development Block Grant and Palo Alto Housing Funds to promote retrofitting of existing soft-story construction by owners of lower income and senior housing. (New Program) N7.4 POLICY Encourage property owners and business owners to evaluate their vulnerability to earthquake hazards and take appropriate action to minimize their risk. (New Policy) FLOOD HAZARD AND MITIGATION N7.5 POLICY Minimize exposure to flood hazards of proposed development in FEMAdesignated Special Flood Hazard Areas. (Previous Policy N-52) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY N52: Minimize exposure to flood hazards by adequately reviewing proposed development in flood prone areas. N7.5.1 PROGRAM Implement flood mitigation requirements of FEMA in Special Flood Hazard Areas as illustrated on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps. (Previous Program N-76) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N76: Implement the requirements of FEMA relating to construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas as illustrated on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps. N7.5.2 PROGRAM Continue participating in FEMA s Community Rating System to reduce flood insurance for local residents and businesses. (New Program) N7.5.3 PROGRAM Together with the San Francisquito Creek Joint Powers Authority and the Santa Clara Valley Water District, participate in planning and implementation efforts that stabilize, restore, maintain and provide one percent (100- year) flood protection adjacent to San Francisquito Creek. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 169

170 N7.6 POLICY Monitor and respond to the risk of flooding caused by climate change that may result in changes to precipitation patterns, sea level rise and storm surges. (New Policy) N7.6.1 PROGRAM Work cooperatively with the Santa Clara Valley Water District to provide flood protection from high tide events on San Francisco Bay, taking into account the impacts of future sea level rise, to provide one percent (100-year) flood protection from tidal flooding. (New Program) N7.6.2 PROGRAM Wherever feasible and appropriate apply sea level rise adaptation approaches as recommended in the San Francisco Bay Plan adopted by San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission. (New Program) COMMUNITY SAFETY AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT N8 GOAL DEVELOP AND COORDINATE A PLAN FOR FIRE, POLICE PROTECTION AND EFFECTIVE EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE. PUBLIC AWARENESS AND GENERAL SAFETY MEASURES N8.1 POLICY Facilitate ongoing public education and awareness to prevent loss of life and property from impacts of natural and man-made disasters. (New Policy) N8.1.1 PROGRAM Initiate public education programs strongly encouraging that each household in the City be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours after a major earthquake, flood, terrorism, pandemic or other major disasters. (Previous Program N- 82) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N82: Initiate public education programs that strongly encourage that each household in the City is prepared to be self-sufficient for 72 hours after a major earthquake. Update and distribute the City's earthquake preparedness guide, "Living with Our Faults." N8.1.2 PROGRAM Continue to implement the Emergency Services Volunteer program and encourage residents and employees to participate in citywide emergency drills and other public education activities. (New Program) N8.2 POLICY Focus efforts to reduce exposure to natural hazards in those areas of the City where greatest risks exist. (Previous Policy N-49) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 170

171 PREVIOUS POLICY N49: Focus efforts to reduce exposure to natural hazards on those areas where the greatest risks exist. N8.3 POLICY Implement public safety improvements, such as access roads and other infrastructure, in a manner that is sensitive to the environment. (Previous Policy N-50) (No Change) FIRE PROTECTION AND AWARENESS N8.4 POLICY Support Palo Alto Fire Department s efforts in public education and community outreach to prevent injury, loss of life, and damage to property from accidental fires. (New Policy) N8.4.1 PROGRAM Provide public education on fire safety, including evacuation routes and guidelines for clearance of landscaping and other hazards around structures. (Previous Program N-78) (No Change) N8.5 POLICY Minimize exposure to wild land and urban fire hazards through rapid emergency response, proactive code enforcement, public education programs, use of modern fire prevention measures, and adequate emergency management preparation. (Previous Policy N-53) (No Change) N8.5.1 PROGRAM Regularly review and update the Fire Department s operations, training facilities, and programs to ensure consistency with current standards and Best Management Practices. (New Program) N8.5.2 PROGRAM Regularly review and update the Palo Alto Foothills Fire Management Plan and the fire emergency evacuation provisions in the City's Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) to ensure consistency with current standards and Best Management Practices. (Previous Program N-77) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N77: Regularly review and update the Palo Alto Foothills Fire Management Plan and the fire emergency evacuation provisions in the City's Emergency Management Plan. N8.5.3 PROGRAM Implement the Foothills Fire Management Plan to balance conservation of natural resources with reduction of fire hazards especially in open space areas. (New Program) N8.5.4 PROGRAM Minimize fire hazards by implementing low density zoning in wild land fire hazard areas. (Previous Program N-79) (No Change) N8.6 POLICY Provide emergency services consistent with the response time standards set forth in the Public Safety Department s (Fire, Police, Office of Emergency Services) plan. (Previous Policy N-54) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 171

172 PREVIOUS POLICY N54: Provide emergency fire and medical services consistent with the response time standards set forth in the Fire Department s annual budget. N8.6.1 PROGRAM Evaluate measures with other jurisdictions for optimal service delivery to improve efficiency; develop automatic or mutual aid agreements with other jurisdictions to improve efficiencies. (Previous Program N-80) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N80: Evaluate measures for consolidation of services with other jurisdictions and automatic or mutual aid agreements with other jurisdictions to improve efficiencies. N8.7 POLICY Monitor and respond to the risk of wild land fire hazards caused by climate change. (New Policy) N8.7.1 PROGRAM Consider implementation of CAL FIRE recommended programs in educating and involving the local community to diminish potential loss caused by wildfire and identify prevention measures to reduce those risks. (New Program) COMMUNITY SAFETY N8.8 POLICY Support the Palo Alto Police Department s efforts in public safety education and community outreach. Use education and crime prevention as integral parts of the practice of law enforcement. (New Policy) N8.9 POLICY Encourage development of law enforcement programs to reduce and prevent crime through community partnerships including partnerships with school districts, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community groups such as Emergency Services Volunteers. (New Policy) N8.9.1 PROGRAM Provide neighborhood security and crime prevention information and training to neighborhood groups and homeowners associations. (New Program) N8.9.2 PROGRAM Continue working with Palo Alto Unified School District to provide community safety education in the classroom and assist with the development of secure school facility projects and programs. (New Program) N8.9.3 PROGRAM Continue to support and encourage participation in the Police Department Explorer Post 61 program, as an effective means of introducing youth to the importance and benefits of local law enforcement. (New Program) N8.10 POLICY Regularly review the adequacy of law enforcement services and emergency services in the city. Plan and develop law enforcement infrastructure and technology according to overall need and the growth within the City. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 172

173 N PROGRAM Periodically monitor and review the level of public safety staffing required to ensure efficient service delivery to serve local needs. (New Program) N PROGRAM Plan for new public safety facilities to adequately meet the Police Department s requirements to maintain operations securely even during a natural disaster. (New Program) N8.11 POLICY Require Police Department review of site plans and building designs for major development proposals in order to promote overall safety and crime prevention. (New Policy) N8.12 POLICY Continue to cooperate with neighboring jurisdictions and allied agencies for regional planning of day-to-day operations and disaster response. (New Policy) EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT N8.13 POLICY Follow the guidelines in the Emergency Operations Plan and continue towards implementing the four phases of National Incident Management Systems (NIMS): mitigation/prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. (New Policy) N PROGRAM Regularly update and make publicly available the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). (New Program) N PROGRAM Participate in local and regional planning efforts to comply with NIMS. (Previous Program N-81) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM N81: Regularly update and distribute the Emergency Management Plan, including the earthquake, flood, and fire emergency evacuation plans. Consult with the Palo Alto Unified School District in updating the Plan. N8.14 POLICY Encourage all entities, including the private sector and other nongovernmental organizations, to coordinate emergency planning efforts, including planning for natural disasters, terrorism, war, infrastructure failure, and other disasters, consistent with the National Planning Scenarios via the Palo Alto/Stanford Citizen Corps Council (CCC). (New Policy) N PROGRAM Implement the mitigation strategies and guidelines provided by the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. (New Program) N PROGRAM Continue citywide efforts to underground utility wires to limit injury, loss of life, and damage to property in the event of man-made or natural disasters. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 173

174 N PROGRAM Enhance the safety of City-owned natural gas pipeline operations. Work with customers, public safety officials, and industry leaders to ensure the safe delivery of natural gas throughout the service area. Provide safety information to all residents on City-owned natural gas distribution pipelines. (New Program) N PROGRAM Implement the guidelines provided in the Utilities Emergency Response Plan to ensure continuity of City utilities operation after natural or manmade disasters. (New Program) N PROGRAM Work with neighborhoods and civic organizations on emergency preparedness and security programs, use the Santa Clara County Alert SCC system to notify residents when needed. (Previous Program G-10) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM G10: Work with neighborhood and civic organizations on emergency preparedness and security programs. N8.15 POLICY Encourage multiagency coordination in case of incidents that cross disciplinary or jurisdictional boundaries or coordination that involves complex incident management scenarios. (New Policy) N8.16 POLICY Work with other government agencies, neighboring cities, local institutions, non-profit organizations, and private corporations with established emergency response functions to enhance the City s overall emergency response capabilities. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 174

175 The Disposition Table The Disposition Table explains the status of each of the goals, policies and programs of the Comprehensive Plan elements. It shows the following: The corresponding new number of the policy/program; If there is no change in the policy/program; If the policy/program has been edited; If the policy/program has been completed; If the existing policy/program had a status change (i.e. either merged with another policy/program, or policy changed to a program or vice versa)and The existing Comprehensive Plan s goals, policies and program numbers. Draft Comprehensive Plan 175

176 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT ELEMENT UPDATE GOALS, POLICIES AND PROGRAMS DISPOSITION Natural Environment Element MOVED TO OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Natural and Urban Environment and Safety Element GOAL N-1: A Citywide Open Space System that Protects and Conserves Palo Alto s Natural Resources and Provides a Source of Beauty and Enjoyment for Palo Alto Residents. N01 Policy X N1.10 N01 Program X N N02 Program X N1.5.1 N03 Program X Changed to Policy N1.5 N02 Policy X N1.2 N04 Program X N1.2.1 N03 Policy X N1.7 N04 Policy X N1.1 N05 Program X N N05 Policy X N1.3 N06 Policy X Changed to Program N N06 Program N07 Policy Complete Complete N08 Policy X N1.4 GOAL N-2: Conservation of Creeks and Riparian Areas as Open Space Amenities, Natural Habitat Areas, and Elements of Community Design. N09 Policy X N1.13 N010 Policy X N1.14 N011 Policy X Combined with N12 N07 Program X Split N N08 Program X N N09 Program X N N1.12 N12 Policy Repetitive Combined with N11 N1.12 N10 Program Complete N11 Program X N N13 Policy N12 Program Not Applicable Complete N13 Program X N GOAL N-3: A Thriving Urban Forest That Provides Ecological, Economic, and Aesthetic Benefits for Palo Alto. N14 Policy X N1.17 N14 Program Not Applicable N15Program Not Applicable N16 Program X N N17 Program X N Draft Comprehensive Plan 176

177 Natural Environment Element N18 Program N19 Program MOVED TO OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED X X Combined with Program 19 Combined with Program 18 STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Natural and Urban Environment and Safety Element N N N15 Policy X N1.19 N16 Policy X N1.20 N20 Program X N N21 Program X N N17 Policy X GOAL N-4: Water Resources that are Prudently Managed to Sustain Plant and Animal Life, Support Urban Activities, and Protect Public Health and Safety. N18 Policy X N5.2 N22 Program X N5.2.1 N19 Policy X N5.1 N23 Program X N5.1.1 N1.21 N20 Policy Not Applicable N24 Program X N5.3.1 N25 Program X N5.3.2 N26 Program X N5.4.1 N21 Policy X N5.7 N27Program X N5.7.1 N28 Program X N5.7.2 N29 Program X N5.7.3 N30 Program X N5.7.4 N31Program X N5.7.5 N32 Program X N5.7.6 N33 Program Complete N22 Policy X N5.8 N34 Program X N5.8.1 N23 Policy X Combined with Policy N- 25 N35 Program X N N24 Policy X N5.9 N36 Program X N5.9.1 N25 Policy N37 Program Complete X Combined with Policy N- 23 GOAL N-5: Clean, Healthful Air for Palo Alto and the San Francisco Bay Area. N26 Policy X N6.1 N38 Program X N6.1.1 N39 Program X N6.1.2 N5.12 N5.12 Draft Comprehensive Plan 177

178 Natural Environment Element MOVED TO OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Natural and Urban Environment and Safety Element N40 Program X N6.1.3 N41 Program X N6.1.4 N27 Policy X N6.2 N42 Program X N6.2.1 N43 Program X N6.2.2 N44 Program N28 Policy Moved to Transportation Element Complete N45 Program X N6.2.6 N29 Policy X N6.3 GOAL N-6 : An Environment Free of the Damaging Effects of Biological and Chemical Hazardous Materials. N30 Policy X N4.1 N46 Program X N4.1.1 N47 Program X N4.1.2 N48 Program X N4.1.3 N49 Program Complete N50 Program X N4.1.4 N31 Policy X N4.2 N32 Policy X N4.3 N33 Policy X N4.4 GOAL N-7: Reduced Volumes of Solid Waste; Solid Waste Disposed in an Environmentally Safe, Efficient, Manner. N34 Policy X N4.5 N51 Program X N4.5.6 N52 Program X N4.5.2 N53 Program X N4.5.3 N54 Program X N4.5.4 N35 Policy X N4.8 N55 Program Not Applicable N36 Policy X N4.9 N37 Policy Repetitive N38 Policy X N4.10 GOAL N-8: An Environment That Minimizes the Adverse Impacts of Noise. N39 Policy X N6.5 N40 Policy X N6.6 N41 Policy X N6.8 N42 Policy X N6.9 N43 Policy X N6.10 N56 Program X N N57 Program X N N58 Program X N N59 Program X N N60 Program X N N61 Program X N Draft Comprehensive Plan 178

179 Natural Environment Element MOVED TO OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Natural and Urban Environment and Safety Element GOAL N-9: A Clean, Efficient, Competitively-priced Energy Supply That Makes Use of Cost-effective Renewable Resources. N44 Policy X N3.2 N62 Program X N3.6.1 N45 Policy X N3.6 N46 Policy X N3.7 N47 Policy X N3.1 N63Program X N3.1.2 N64 Program X N3.1.1 N65 Program X N3.1.3 N66 Program X N3.1.4 N48 Policy Not Applicable N67 Program Not Applicable N68 Program X N3.5.4 GOAL N-10: Protection of Life and Property From Natural Hazards, Including Earthquake, Landslide, Flooding, and Fire. N49 Policy X N8.2 N50 Policy X N8.3 N51 Policy X N7.2 N69 Program Complete N70Program X N7.3.1 N71 Program X N7.3.2 N72 Program Complete N73 Program X N7.2.2 N74 Program X N7.2.1 N52 Policy X N7.5 N75 Program On Hold N76 Program X N7.5.1 N53 Policy X N8.5 N77 Program X N8.5.2 N78 Program X N8.4.1 N79 Program X N8.5.4 N54 Policy X N8.6 N80 Program X N8.6.1 N55 Policy Repetitive N81 Program X N N82 Program X N8.1.1 G10 Program Added from Governance Element Moved to and from other Elements=2 Policies & Programs Repetitive, Completed or Not Applicable & Removed=20 X Policies / Programs Status Changed = 2 Policies / Programs Merged or Split= 8 No Change= 36 Edited=80 N Total = 115, Policies (48) and Programs (67) Draft Comprehensive Plan 179

180 NEW GOALS (8), NEW POLICIES (55), AND PROGRAMS (85) ADDED GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS N1 N1.1.1 N2 N2.1 N3 N3.3 N1.2.2 N2.2 N3.4 N3.4.1 N1.6 N1.6.1 N2.3 N3.4.2 N1.6.2 N2.4 N2.4.1 N3.4.3 N1.6.3 N2.4.2 N3.5 N3.5.1 N1.6.4 N2.4.3 N3.5.2 N1.7.1 N2.4.4 N3.5.3 N1.7.2 N2.4.5 N3.5.5 N1.8 N1.8.1 N2.5 N2.5.1 N3.5.6 N1.9 N1.9.1 N2.6 N3.8 N3.8.1 N1.9.2 N1.11 N N N N N N N N1.15 N N1.16 N N N N N N1.18 N N4 N5 N6 N6.2.3 N4.3.1 N5.2.2 N6.2.4 N4.5.1 N5.3 N5.3.3 N6.2.5 N4.5.5 N5.4 N5.4.2 N6.4 N4.6 N5.5 N6.7 N4.7 N5.6 N6.11 N4.8.1 N5.7.7 N6.12 N4.8.2 N5.7.8 N6.13 N4.11 N5.7.9 N6.14 N4.12 N N6.15 N N5.10 N6.16 N N5.11 N N6.17 N N6.18 N N6.19 N N5.13 N N7 N7.1 N7.1.1 N8 N8.1 N8.1.2 N8.11 N7.1.2 N8.4 N8.12 N7.2.3 N8.5.1 N8.13 N N7.3 N7.3.3 N8.5.3 N8.14 N N7.3.4 N8.7 N8.7.1 N8 Contd N N7.4 N8.8 N N7.5.2 N8.9 N8.9.1 N N7.5.3 N8.9.2 N8.15 N7.6 N7.6.1 N8.9.3 N8.16 Draft Comprehensive Plan 180

181 Policy/Program # Policy/Program Language Status OPEN SPACE GOAL N-1: Policies and Programs Deleted from the Natural Environment Element A Citywide Open Space System that Protects and Conserves Palo Alto s Natural Resources and Provides a Source of Beauty and Enjoyment for Palo Alto Residents. N06 Program As part of the design review process for proposed development in the Open Space zone district that exceeds 6,500 square feet, require that "story poles" be erected with outlining tape depicting the building's location, bulk and height to aid in assessing the potential visual impacts of the proposed project. Complete N07 Policy All development in the foothill portion of the Planning Area (i.e., above Junipero Serra Boulevard) should be consistent with the following criteria:(refer to page N- 5 of the Comprehensive Plan) Adopt a setback along natural creeks that prohibits the siting of buildings and other structures, impervious surfaces, outdoor activity areas, and ornamental landscaped areas within 100 feet from the top of a creek bank. Allow passive or intermittent outdoor activities and pedestrian, equestrian, and bicycle pathways where there are adequate setbacks to protect the natural riparian environment. Within the setback area, provide border of native riparian vegetation at least 25 feet along the creek bank. Exception to the 100-foot setback are as follows: (refer to page N-8 of the Comprehensive Plan) Complete N12 Policy GOAL N-2: N10 Program N13 Policy N12 Program GOAL N-3: Preserve the habitat value of creek corridors through the preservation of native plants and the replacement of invasive, non-native plants with native plants. CREEKS AND RIPARIAN AREAS Work with the Santa Clara Valley Water District to establish guidelines for creek channel maintenance that encourage preservation of riparian habitat, including vegetation that provides shade to creek bottoms. Discourage creek bank instability, erosion, downstream sedimentation, and flooding by minimizing site disturbance and vegetation removal on or near creeks and carefully reviewing grading and drainage plans for development near creeks and elsewhere in the watersheds of creeks. Review and update the Grading Ordinance to ensure that it adequately protects creeks from the erosion and sedimentation impacts of grading. URBAN FOREST Repetitive, Combined with policy N11 Conservation of Creeks and Riparian Areas as Open Space Amenities, Natural Habitat Areas, and Elements of Community Design. Complete Not Applicable Complete A Thriving Urban Forest That Provides Ecological, Economic, and Aesthetic Benefits for Palo Alto. N14 Program Implement the recommendations of the Tree Task Force. Not Applicable N15Program Continue celebration of Arbor Day in Palo Alto. Not Applicable GOAL N-4: N20 Policy N33 Program N37 Program GOAL N-5: WATER RESOURCES Water Resources that are Prudently Managed to Sustain Plant and Animal Life, Support Urban Activities, and Protect Public Health and Safety. Maximize the conservation and efficient use of water in new and existing residences, businesses and industries. Study the impacts on storm water pollution of architectural copper and consider limiting its use, if warranted. Monitor wastewater treatment industry practices relating to the use of chlorine to disinfect wastewater. AIR QUALITY Clean, Healthful Air for Palo Alto and the San Francisco Bay Area. Not Applicable Complete Complete N44 Program Develop public information programs to educate the public on Best Management Practices in the use of wood burning appliances, including reduction of wood burning during critical periods of poor air quality. Complete Draft Comprehensive Plan 181

182 Policy/Program # Policy/Program Language Status N28 Policy Encourage developers of new projects in Palo Alto, including City projects, to provide improvements that reduce the necessity of driving alone. HAZARDOUS WASTE Moved to Transportation Element GOAL N-6: An Environment Free of the Damaging Effects of Biological and Chemical Hazardous Materials. N49 Program Study the relative costs, advantages, and disadvantages of joining the regional household hazardous waste program operated by the Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health. SOLID WASTE Complete GOAL N7: Reduced Volumes of Solid Waste; Solid Waste Disposed in an Environmentally Safe, Efficient, Manner. N55 Program Maintain and expand the use of the Recycling Center at the City's refuse disposal area. Not Applicable N37 Policy Ensure the environmentally sound disposal of solid waste. Repetitive ENERGY GOAL N9: A Clean, Efficient, Competitively-priced Energy Supply That Makes Use of Cost-effective Renewable Resources. N48 Policy Encourage the appropriate use of alternative energy technologies. Not Applicable N67 Program Provide information and advice on the use of alternative energy technologies, including the relative costs and benefits of different types of fuel, to all customers. NATURAL HAZARDS Not Applicable GOAL N10: Protection of Life and Property From Natural Hazards, Including Earthquake, Landslide, Flooding, and Fire. N69 Program Strictly enforce Uniform Building Code seismic safety restrictions. Complete N72 Program Revise the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances to recognize seismic, geologic, and soil related hazards. Complete Emergency Management N55 Minimize exposure to all hazards through emergency management planning. Repetitive Policy Draft Comprehensive Plan 182

183 Business and Economics Element Draft Comprehensive Plan 183

184 Draft Comprehensive Plan 184

185 Highlights of Change Business and Economics Element is an optional Comprehensive Plan element and its goals, policies, and programs emphasize compatibility, diversity, growth, and flexibility of businesses in Palo Alto. The Element also begins with a brief description of local economic conditions and forecasts. New Vision Statement Palo Alto supports a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that welcomes innovators, entrepreneurs, business professionals, the University, visitors and the community. The City s business policies, balanced economic goals, vibrant downtown, and diverse local and regional-serving businesses combine to stimulate and support viable business opportunities. Proposed Element Structure The proposed element has six goals so does the existing element. The format has been restructured, two new goals have been added and some sections have been merged. The following is the new goal structure. B1-Encouraging Innovation and Technology B2-Business Centers: Downtown and California Avenue B3-Palo alto as a Regional shopping, Services and Employment Destination B4-Thriving Retail Districts B5-Doing Business in Palo Alto B6-Visitors and Tourism Major New Concepts Added In the proposed draft the following new topics have been introduced Draft Comprehensive Plan 185

186 Encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation; Enhance and diversify retail mix; Create positive parking solutions for businesses in California Avenue and Downtown; Support creation of Business Registry and Enhance Palo Alto s appeal to visitors and tourists. A Summary of Changes Business and Economics Element had 33 policies and 18 programs 76% of the existing policies and programs are being carried over to the amended element; 23% of the existing policies and programs are deemed complete; 1 % of the policies and programs went through status change; 53% of the old policies and programs were edited; 24% of the old policies and programs were carried over with no change and 32 new policies and 35 new programs were added The draft Business and Economics Element has a total of 59 policies and 47 programs Draft Comprehensive Plan 186

187 BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS ELEMENT Proposed Vision Palo Alto supports a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that welcomes innovators, entrepreneurs, business professionals, the University, visitors and the community. The City s business policies, balanced economic goals, vibrant downtown, and diverse local and regional-serving businesses combine to stimulate and support viable business opportunities. Existing Vision Palo Alto s business environment will be exciting, dynamic and vital. Businesses will have access to a wide array of support services and will enjoy positive relationships with Palo Alto residents, officials, and City staff. The competing needs of residents and businesses will be balanced so that neighborhoods are protected and enhanced while business districts are competitive and attractive. The local economy will thrive, and a diverse array of goods and services will be provided to Palo Alto consumers. Most development will occur within Palo Alto s employment areas, and will be consistent with the role and character designated for each area by this Plan. Draft Comprehensive Plan 187

188 BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS ELEMENT TABLE OF CONTENTS B1 B2 B3 ENCOURAGING INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY Foster the next generation of entrepreneurship in Palo Alto that builds on the City s legacy of innovation BUSINESS CENTERS: DOWNTOWN and CALIFORNIA AVENUE Maintain and enhance the attractiveness of our two primary business centers by supporting an attractive and sustainable mix of commercial and office uses with pedestrian-oriented neighborhood shopping, dining and entertainment experiences PALO ALTO AS A REGIONAL SHOPPING, SERVICES AND EMPLOYMENT DESTINATION Support Palo Alto s research parks, shopping centers and employment centers to improve and enhance economic vitality of the region. Stanford Shopping Center Stanford Research Park East Bayshore, San Antonio and East Meadow Circle Area B4 THRIVING RETAIL DISTRICTS Preserve and improve existing retail districts, and enhance the vitality of businesses that serve Palo Alto s neighborhoods, commercial districts and visitors Retail Districts El Camino Real South of Forest Mixed Use Area (SOFA) Town and Country Village Neighborhood-Serving Retail Districts Mid-Town Charleston Shopping Center Edgewood Plaza Alma Village B5 DOING BUSINESS IN PALO ALTO Support businesses that serve our residents, our visitors, and our workers, that provide Draft Comprehensive Plan 188

189 needed local services and local revenues, and contribute to the economic vitality Business and the Community B6 VISITORS AND TOURISM Enhance Palo Alto s role as an international attraction to visitors and guests for its cultural, educational and civic appeal Draft Comprehensive Plan 189

190 ENCOURAGING INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY B1 GOAL FOSTER THE NEXT GENERATION OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN PALO ALTO THAT BUILDS ON THE CITY S LEGACY OF INNOVATION B1.1 POLICY Enhance Palo Alto s attractiveness to entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and investors by fostering an environment attractive to new businesses and start-ups. (New Policy) B1.1.1 PROGRAM Adopt feasible zoning standards to encourage start-up businesses and establish criteria to facilitate these businesses. (New Program) B1.1.2 PROGRAM Advocate for public-private partnerships that lead to lower cost office and retail space to support new businesses at appropriate locations throughout the City. (New Program) B1.1.3 PROGRAM Create partnership programs with the City, local businesses and nonprofit organizations to nurture start-up businesses. (New Program) B1.2 POLICY Periodically review the zoning ordinance and Comprehensive Plan land use map to identify revisions that would accommodate new businesses and appropriate land uses in commercial districts. (New Policy) B1.3 POLICY Nurture and support Palo Alto s image as a global center of innovation for emerging technology businesses. (Previous Policy B-4) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B4: Nurture and support established businesses as well as new businesses. B1.3.1 PROGRAM Use the City s website as a means to promote innovation and technology. (New Program) B1.4 POLICY Explore implementing programs to encourage retention of small and growing businesses within Palo Alto. (New Policy) BUSINESS CENTERS: DOWNTOWN AND CALIFORNIA AVENUE B2 GOAL MAINTAIN AND ENHANCE THE ATTRACTIVENESS OF OUR TWO PRIMARY BUSINESS CENTERS BY SUPPORTING AN ATTRACTIVE AND SUSTAINABLE MIX OF COMMERCIAL AND OFFICE USES WITH PEDESTRIAN-ORIENTED NEIGHBORHOOD Draft Comprehensive Plan 190

191 SHOPPING, DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCES DOWNTOWN PALO ALTO B2.1 POLICY Support and enhance the University Avenue/Downtown area as a vital mixed-use area containing retail, personal service, office, restaurant, and entertainment uses. Recognize the importance of an appropriate retail balance, including small local businesses, to the continued vitality of Downtown. (Previous Policy B-20) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B20: Support and enhance the University Avenue/Downtown area as a vital mixed use area containing retail, personal service, office, restaurant, and entertainment uses. Recognize the importance of an appropriate retail mix, including small local businesses, to the continued vitality of Downtown. B2.1.1 PROGRAM Actively work with Downtown businesses, professional associations and the Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce to retain successful existing small and medium sized businesses. (New Program) B2.1.2 PROGRAM Identify and target businesses suitable for the Downtown area that will enhance commercial vitality as well as attract shoppers. (New Program) B2.1.3 PROGRAM Modify and update the Zoning Ordinance use category definitions and consider location restrictions to discourage aggregations of similar types of businesses in the Downtown area. (New Program) B2.2 POLICY Support a vibrant and dynamic Downtown environment that combines ground-floor retail, a diverse selection of dining and entertainment options, and mixed-use buildings with commercial office space and housing. (New Policy) B2.2.1 PROGRAM Introduce new urban design elements on cross streets between Lytton and Forest Avenues to enhance commercial environment beyond University Avenue. (New Program) B2.2.2 PROGRAM Develop pedestrian linkages to the Downtown area from the intermodal transit center, Stanford Shopping Center and Stanford University. (New Program) B2.2.3 PROGRAM Modify or revise commercial site development regulations to strengthen retail and pedestrian environment in the Downtown area. (New Program) B2.3 POLICY Work with Downtown businesses and neighboring residents to create positive parking solutions for employees and visitors while reducing Draft Comprehensive Plan 191

192 parking encroachment into adjacent residential neighborhoods. (New Policy) B2.3.1 PROGRAM Monitor and periodically report on Downtown business district parking deficit. (New Program) B2.3.2 PROGRAM Develop comprehensive parking management strategies supporting alternative transportation modes for Downtown business districts. (New Program) B2.3.3 PROGRAM Utilize residential parking permit programs for areas near Downtown where needed to alleviate encroachment into residential areas. (New Program) B2.4 POLICY Reduce traffic congestion and parking shortages by promoting transit alternatives for residents, workers and visitors. (New Policy) B2.5 POLICY Support local business efforts to encourage downtown employees to shop and dine at nearby commercial and retail establishments. (New Policy) B2.5.1 PROGRAM Communicate ongoing positive changes in the Downtown area to residents and visitors. (New Program) CALIFORNIA AVENUE California Avenue/Cal-Ventura B2.6 POLICY Maintain the existing orientation and scale of local-serving retail in the California Avenue business district. Foster the establishment of businesses and commercial services in the California Avenue business district that serve the adjacent neighborhoods as well as the Stanford Research Park. (Previous Policy B-23 & B-24) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B23: Maintain the existing local-serving retail orientation of the California Avenue business district. Discourage development that would turn the district into a regional shopping area or intrude into adjacent residential neighborhoods. PREVIOUS POLICY B24: Foster the establishment of businesses and commercial services in the California Avenue business district that serve the adjacent neighborhoods as well as Stanford Research Park B2.6.1 PROGRAM Actively work with the California Avenue business district and Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce to retain successful existing small and medium-sized businesses. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 192

193 B2.6.2 PROGRAM Identify and target businesses suitable for enriching commercial vitality of the area. (New Program) B2.7 POLICY Make the California Avenue business district inviting for restaurant, entertainment and hospitality businesses to complement neighborhoodserving retail. (New Policy) B2.8 POLICY Study the impact of surface parking lots on nearby businesses. Work with local business owners and residents to provide parking solutions and improve existing automobile parking opportunities within the California Avenue district. (New Policy) B2.8.1 PROGRAM Explore the feasibility of replacing the existing two-level parking structures on Cambridge Avenue with higher-density parking structures. (New Program) B2.8.2 PROGRAM Encourage local business owners to provide bicycle parking on California and Cambridge Avenues as a way to encourage local trips by modes other than singleoccupant vehicles. (New Program) B2.8.3 PROGRAM Develop pedestrian linkages to California Avenue area from the Stanford Research Park, near by Stanford University residential neighborhoods and close by public transit stations. (New Program) B2.9 POLICY Encourage mixed-use development in the California Avenue area with active neighborhood-serving business uses on the ground floor. (New Policy) B2.9.1 PROGRAM Strengthen business opportunities and incentivize mixed-use development in the California Avenue area by making revisions to Pedestrian and Transit Oriented Development (PTOD) combining district regulations. (New Program) B2.9.2 PROGRAM Explore the feasibility of establishing Ground Floor retail overlay zoning for the California Avenue business district. (New Program) B2.9.3 PROGRAM Study appropriate commercial diversity in the California Avenue business district to balance a healthy mix of locally owned and chain-type commercial businesses, and to prevent proliferation of specific use types. (New Program) B2.10 POLICY Reinforce the economic strength of California Avenue businesses by implementing the California Avenue Streetscape Plan and strengthen the retail storefront presence by encouraging high quality pedestrianoriented facade design. (New Policy) B PROGRAM Develop design guidelines for ground floor storefronts to improve the relationship with the street to attract more pedestrian traffic. (New Program) Draft Comprehensive Plan 193

194 B PROGRAM Consider adding street fairs and additional farmer s market days to strengthen the vitality and image of California Avenue as a pedestrian environment for businesses. (New Program) B2.11 POLICY Adopt economic development policies and programs that facilitate the Park Boulevard area in California Avenue Area Concept Plan as an important corridor of innovation and entrepreneurship for small new companies. (New Policy) B PROGRAM Encourage the formation of incubator businesses and provide affordable offices for small businesses along Park Boulevard. (New Program) PALO ALTO AS A REGIONAL SHOPPING, SERVICES AND EMPLOYMENT DESTINATION B3 GOAL SUPPORT PALO ALTO S RESEARCH PARKS, SHOPPING CENTERS AND EMPLOYMENT CENTERS TO IMPROVE AND ENHANCE THE ECONOMIC VITALITY OF THE REGION STANFORD SHOPPING CENTER B3.1 POLICY Work with all stakeholders to ensure that the Stanford Shopping Center is sustained as a distinctive, competitive, high-quality regional shopping center. (Previous Policy B-22) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B22: Work with Stanford University to ensure that the Stanford Shopping Center is sustained as a distinctive, competitive, high-quality regional shopping center. STANFORD RESEARCH PARK B3.2 POLICY Support the positive relationship between the local business community and Stanford University faculty, alumni and administrators. (Previous Policy B-28) (No Change) B3.3 POLICY Facilitate Stanford s ability to respond to changing market conditions that support the long-term viability of the Stanford Research Park. (Previous Policy B-29) (No Change) B3.3.1 PROGRAM Consider modifications to zoning regulations to allow convenienceoriented businesses such as restaurants and office support services within the Stanford Research Park. (Previous Program B-14) (Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 194

195 PREVIOUS PROGRAM B14: Modify zoning regulations to allow convenienceoriented businesses such as restaurants and office support services within the Stanford Research Park. B3.3.2 PROGRAM Review policies and regulations guiding development at the Stanford Research Park and revise them as needed to allow improved responsiveness to changing market conditions. (Previous Program B-15) (No Change) B3.3.3 PROGRAM Study the feasibility of a "transfer of development rights" (TDR) program and other measures that would provide greater development flexibility within the Stanford Research Park without creating significant adverse traffic impacts or increasing allowable floor area.(previous Program B-16) (No Change) EAST BAYSHORE, SAN ANTONIO AND EAST MEADOW CIRCLE AREAS B3.4 POLICY Encourage retail and neighborhood-serving uses to facilitate surrounding residential and commercial areas within the East Meadow Circle, San Antonio and Charleston areas. (New Policy) B3.5 POLICY Encourage actions that would keep the cost of business space in the San Antonio Road and East Bayshore areas affordable. (Previous Policy B-33) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B33: Discourage actions that could increase the cost of business space in the San Antonio Road and East Bayshore areas. B3.6 POLICY Encourage new, larger-scale, revenue-generating commercial development that complements the recent developments in the neighborhood areas. (New Policy) B3.7 POLICY Plan for lively streetscape accommodating continued vehicular traffic and increased pedestrian traffic. (New Policy) B3.8 POLICY As sites within the East Meadow Circle develop, guide growth by working together with business owners and residents of the area to create attractive design layout and positive traffic solutions. (New Policy) B3.9 POLICY Require employers and business owners to provide alternative transit solutions for employees to reduce traffic and parking congestion. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 195

196 THRIVING RETAIL DISTRICTS B4 GOAL PRESERVE AND IMPROVE EXISTING RETAIL DISTRICTS, AND ENHANCE THE VITALITY OF BUSINESSES THAT SERVE PALO ALTO S NEIGHBORHOODS, COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS AND VISITORS B4.1 POLICY Maintain distinct neighborhood shopping areas that are attractive, accessible and convenient to nearby residents. (Previous Policy B-6) (No change) B4.2 POLICY Support a strong interdependence between existing commercial centers and the surrounding neighborhoods as a way of encouraging economic vitality. (Previous Policy B-2) (No Change) B4.3 POLICY Encourage revitalization of Palo Alto's commercial centers, using street corridor improvements as catalysts for economic revitalization in selected centers. (Previous Policy B-19 & B-27) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B19: Use street corridor improvements as catalysts for economic revitalization in selected Centers. PREVIOUS POLICY B27: Support the upgrading and revitalization of Palo Alto's four Neighborhood Commercial Centers. B4.3.1 PROGRAM Identify and prioritize commercial centers in need of economic or physical revitalization. (Previous Program B-11) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM B11: Identify and prioritize Centers in need of economic or physical revitalization. RETAIL DISTRICTS El Camino Real B4.4 POLICY Strengthen the commercial viability of businesses along the El Camino Real corridor by encouraging development of pedestrian-oriented neighborhood retail and office centers. (Previous Policy B-25) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B25: Strengthen the commercial viability of businesses along El Camino Real. Encourage the development of pedestrian-oriented neighborhood retail and office centers along the El Camino corridor. Draft Comprehensive Plan 196

197 B4.5 POLICY Encourage commercial investment and activity along El Camino Real that complements the Stanford Research Park and enhances its physical appearance. (Previous Policy B-30) (No Change) B4.5.1 PROGRAM Identify opportunities to create a concentration of commercial services to serve Stanford Research Park employees and visitors. (Previous Program B- 17) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM B17: Identify opportunities along El Camino Real where a concentration of commercial services serving Research Park employees and visitors might be created. B4.5.2 PROGRAM Support the commercial revitalization efforts of the Grand Boulevard Initiative. (New Program) B4.6 POLICY Support business vitality by exploring opportunities to make El Camino Real more pedestrian and bicycle friendly. (New Policy) B4.6.1 PROGRAM Update the zoning ordinance and urban design guidelines to include principles of the Grand Boulevard initiative, addressing wider sidewalks, bicycle lanes and architecture that incorporate public spaces. (New Program) B4.6.2 PROGRAM Explore economic redevelopment opportunities adjacent to the VTA s proposed Bus Rapid Transit stops. (New Program) B4.6.3 PROGRAM Identify key sites on El Camino Real that would be suitable for Neighborhood Centers. Evaluate economics, design, traffic management, signage, and other regulatory opportunities and constraints for each site. Identify potential incentives that could be offered by the City to improve the area s appearance and economic vitality. (Previous Program B-12) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM B12: Identify key sites on El Camino Real that would be suitable for Neighborhood Centers. Evaluate economic, design, and regulatory opportunities and constraints for each site, and identify potential incentives that could be offered by the City to improve the area s appearance and economic vitality. B4.7 POLICY Promote the viability of the El Camino Real Corridor through appropriate land use, housing, density, parking, economic and public transit access polices as developed by the City and as promoted in related studies and efforts, such as the Grand Boulevard Initiative. (New Policy) South of Forest Mixed Use Area (SOFA) B4.8 POLICY Maintain uses in the South of Forest Area (SOFA) that complement the Downtown business district and serve the needs of nearby neighborhoods. (Previous Policy B-21) (Policy Split &Edited) Draft Comprehensive Plan 197

198 PREVIOUS POLICY B21: Maintain uses in the South of Forest Area (SOFA) that complement the Downtown business district, allow for the continued operation of automotive service uses, and serve the needs of nearby neighborhoods. B4.8.1 PROGRAM Allow for the continued operation of existing automotive service uses. (Previous Policy B-21) (Part of Previous Policy Split & Changed to a Program) B4.9 POLICY Support mixed-use land use policies adopted in the SOFA 2 Plan to maintain economic vitality of the area. (New Policy) Town and Country Village B4.10 POLICY Retain the local-serving retail character of Town and Country Village. (Previous Policy B-26) (No Change) B4.11 POLICY Encourage improvements to pedestrian, bicycle and auto circulation at and near Town and Country Village. (New Policy) Neighborhood-Serving Retail Districts: Mid-Town, Charleston Shopping Center, Edgewood Plaza, and Alma Village B4.12 POLICY Maintain the existing scale and mix of small and medium-size neighborhood- serving retail businesses in all the retail districts. (New Policy) B4.13 POLICY Make necessary improvements to road signage, traffic signals and lane striping to improve auto traffic flow in the neighborhood serving shopping areas. (New Policy) B4.14 POLICY Support retention of grocery stores in neighborhood-serving retail districts such as Alma Plaza. (New Policy) DOING BUSINESSES IN PALO ALTO B5 GOAL SUPPORT BUSINESSES THAT SERVE OUR RESIDENTS, OUR VISITORS, AND OUR WORKERS, THAT PROVIDE NEEDED LOCAL SERVICES AND LOCAL REVENUES, AND CONTRIBUTE Draft Comprehensive Plan 198

199 TO THE CITY S ECONOMIC VITALITY BUSINESS AND THE COMMUNITY B5.1 POLICY Support economic development by promoting Palo Alto s image as a business-friendly community and supporting proactive partnerships between the City and business community. (Previous Policy B-10) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B10: Promote Palo Alto s image as a business-friendly community. Assume an active role in fostering new business, particularly small, start-up businesses in emerging industries. B5.2 POLICY Support local regulations that have minimal impacts on small and medium-size locally-owned businesses. (New Policy) B5.2.1 PROGRAM Improve the speed, consistency, and predictability of the development review process to reduce time and cost constraints for operating or new businesses. (New Program) B5.2.2 PROGRAM Encourage streamlining the City administrative and regulatory processes to expedite permit processing, to help businesses to operate economically. (Previous Policy B-16) (Policy changed to Program) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B16: Encourage streamlining of City administrative and regulatory processes wherever possible. Reduce inefficiencies, overlap, and time delays associated with these processes. B5.2.3 PROGRAM Simplify the design review process for small-scale changes to previously approved site plans and buildings. (Previous Program B-5) (No Change) B5.2.4 PROGRAM Improve design guidelines to reduce ambiguity and more clearly articulate design principles to the business community. (Previous Program B-7) (No Change) B5.2.5 PROGRAM Evaluate alternatives to floor area ratios (FAR) such as through the use of building envelope restrictions and/or performance standards to achieve the same development limitations in a more flexible manner. (Previous Program 8) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM B8: Evaluate methods to lessen the development limitations currently imposed by adopted floor area ratios in a more flexible manner. Such methods could include the use of building envelope restrictions. B5.2.6 PROGRAM Revise the Sign Ordinance to more clearly reflect community-based standards and requirements relating to size, number of signs, allowed locations and design. (Previous Program B-9) (No Change) Draft Comprehensive Plan 199

200 B5.2.7 PROGRAM Regularly evaluate ways to improve coordination of the City's environmental review, permitting, and inspection processes, including issues relating to hazardous materials and water quality regulation. (Previous Program B-6) (No Change) B5.3 POLICY Use a variety of planning and regulatory tools, including growth limits, and floor area capacity exemptions to ensure no additional net loss of retail space due to any proposed land use and other policy changes. (Previous Policy B-1) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B1: Use a variety of planning and regulatory tools, including growth limits, to ensure that business change is compatible with the needs of Palo Alto neighborhoods. B5.4 POLICY Encourage and support small, independent or locally-owned businesses as a means of retaining local services and diversifying the City s economic base. (Previous Policy B-5 & B-7) (Merged & Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B5: Maintain distinct business districts within Palo Alto as a means of retaining local services and diversifying the City s economic base. PREVIOUS POLICY B7: Encourage and support the operation of small, independent businesses. B5.4.1 PROGRAM Develop policies, programs and regulations to support the viability of home-based businesses in Palo Alto. (New Program) B5.5 POLICY Encourage new businesses that meet the City s business, economic and quality- of-life goals to locate in Palo Alto. (Previous Policy B-9) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B9: Encourage new businesses that meet the City s business and economic goals to locate in Palo Alto. B5.5.1 PROGRAM Implement the s Office of Economic Development Policy to guide business development in the City. (Previous Program B-2) (Edited) PREVIOUS PROGRAM B2: Implement the City's Economic Resources Plan. B5.5.2 PROGRAM Evaluate the effectiveness of the City s Office of Economic Development Policy and make appropriate changes to support the health of our local economy and our competitiveness as a place to do business. Consider developing additional elements to the Economic Development Policy that address the following: (New Program) Protocol and performance measures for providing incentives to attract specific industries or companies to locate in Palo Alto; Performance measures for providing assistance to existing companies; and Performance measures to include economic impact, fiscal impact, filling gaps in retail spending, job quality and others. Draft Comprehensive Plan 200

201 B5.5.3 PROGRAM Develop strategies that would create opportunities to increase commercial and retail spending in Palo Alto. (New Program) B5.6 POLICY Support the downtown Business Improvement District partnership, and encourage the development of other businesses district associations. Explore grants and public/private partnerships as a means to enhance the public amenities and other place-making elements. (Previous Policy B-11) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B11: Encourage the use of public/private partnerships as a means of redeveloping and revitalizing selected areas. B5.7 POLICY Where revitalization is desired, explore incentives to encourage owners to upgrade commercial properties. (Previous Policy B-17) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B17: Where redevelopment is desired, encourage owners to upgrade commercial properties through incentives such as reduced parking requirements, credit for on-street parking, and increases in allowable floor area. Use such incentives only where they are needed to stimulate redevelopment or contribute to housing or community design goals. B5.8 POLICY Encourage the renovation and reuse of long-term vacant buildings and lots for commercial purposes. (Previous Policy B-8) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B8: Encourage the renovation and reuse of long-term vacant buildings. B5.9 POLICY Support the development of technologically advanced communications infrastructure and other improvements that will facilitate the growth of emerging industries and businesses. (Previous Policy B-13) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B13: Support the development of technologically-advanced communications infrastructure and other improvements that will facilitate the growth of emerging telecommunications industries. B5.10 POLICY Encourage providers of electronic information networks and other communications infrastructure to maximize potential benefits for Palo Alto businesses, employers and other potential users. (Previous Policy B- 14) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY B14: Work with electronic information network providers to maximize potential benefits for Palo Alto businesses, schools, residences, and other potential users. B5.11 POLICY Encourage businesses to uphold environmental and sustainable principles in their business practices and operations. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 201

202 B5.12 POLICY Encourage local sourcing of materials to minimize the carbon footprint associated with imported goods and encourage locally owned business to enhance the economic impact of local expenditures. (New Policy) B5.13 POLICY Support creation of a business registry to gather data on businesses in Palo Alto, including number of employees, size of businesses and square foot usage. (New Policy) VISITORS AND TOURISM B6 GOAL ENHANCE PALO ALTO S ROLE AS AN INTERNATIONAL ATTRACTION TO VISITORS AND GUESTS FOR ITS CULTURAL, EDUCATIONAL AND CIVIC APPEAL B6.1 POLICY Encourage Palo Alto businesses to perform leadership role in regional economic issues that impact the local economy. (Previous Policy G-8) (Edited) PREVIOUS POLICY G8: Encourage Palo Alto residents and businesses to actively participate in regional programs and organizations. B6.2 POLICY Enhance Palo Alto s appeal to visitors and guests by promoting its unique retail and lifestyle amenities, including nightlife, live entertainment, and cultural experiences. (New Policy) B6.3 POLICY Explore opportunities to create new City events with a focus on attracting visitors through cultural, musical, theatrical and other artistic experiences. (New Policy) B6.4 POLICY Stimulate nightlife by providing more opportunities for artists to make use of public spaces. (New Policy) B6.4.1 PROGRAM Streamline permitting processes for areas determined as appropriate for this purpose. (New Program) B6.5 POLICY Explore opportunities to provide space for conference centers, arts and entertainment activities, and other creative uses. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 202

203 B6.6 POLICY Plan and support the location of new hotels near transit hubs to minimize impacts on circulation, existing land uses, and scale of development. (New Policy) B6.6.1 PROGRAM Coordinate efforts with the Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce, Stanford University, and the University's cultural programs and facilities to promote tourism and visitors. (New Program) B6.7 POLICY Encourage investments in the tourism industry that benefit existing residents, retailers, and support community reinvestment. (New Policy) Draft Comprehensive Plan 203

204 Draft Comprehensive Plan 204

205 The Disposition Table The Disposition Table explains the status of each of the goals, policies and programs of the Comprehensive Plan elements. It shows the following: The corresponding new number of the policy/program; If there is no change in the policy/program; If the policy/program has been edited; If the policy/program has been completed; If the existing policy/program had a status change (i.e. either merged with another policy/program, or policy changed to a program or vice versa)and The existing Comprehensive Plan s goals, policies and program numbers. Draft Comprehensive Plan 205

206 BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS ELEMENT UPDATE GOALS, POLICIES AND PROGRAMS DISPOSITION Business and Economics Element MOVED TO/FROM OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Business and Economics Element GOAL B-1: A Thriving Business Environment that is Compatible with Palo Alto s Residential Character and Natural Environment. Policy B-1 X B5.3 Policy B-2 X B4.2 Policy B-3 Not Applicable Policy B-4 X B1.3 Policy B-5 X Merged with Policy B-7 Policy B-6 X B4.1 Program B-1 Policy B-7 Not Applicable X Merged with Policy B-5 Policy B-8 X B5.8 Policy B-9 X B5.5 Program B-2 X B5.5.1 Policy B-10 X B5.1 Policy B-11 X B5.6 Program B-3 Policy B-12 Repetitive (LUE) Repetitive (LUE) Policy B-13 X B5.9 Program B-4 Repetitive Policy B-14 X B5.10 Policy B-15 GOAL B-2: A Diverse Mix of Commercial, Retail, and Professional Services GOAL B-3: New Businesses that Provide Needed Local Services and Municipal Revenues, Contribute to Economic Vitality, and Enhance the City s Physical Environment. Repetitive (LUE) GOAL B-4: City Regulations and Operating Procedures that Provide Certainty and Predictability and Help Businesses Adapt to Changing Market Conditions. B5.4 B16 Policy X Policy changed to Program B5.2.2 B05 Program X B5.2.3 B06 Program X B5.2.7 B07 Program X B5.2.4 B08 Program X B5.2.5 B09 Program X B5.2.6 B10 Program Complete GOAL B-5: Attractive, Vibrant Business Centers, Each with a Mix of Uses and a Distinctive Character. B17 Policy X B5.7 B11 Program X B4.3.1 Draft Comprehensive Plan 206

207 Business and Economics Element MOVED TO/FROM OTHER ELEMENTS COMPLETE /REPETITIVE / NOT APPLICABLE NO CHANGE EDITED SPLIT MERGED STATUS CHANGE ON HOLD/ NOT FUNDED 2030 Business and Economics Element B18 Policy Not Applicable (LUE) B19 Policy X Merged with Policy B27 B4.3 B20 Policy X B2.1 B21 Policy X X B4.8 B4.8.1 B22 Policy X B3.1 B23 Policy B24 Policy X X Merged Policy B23 & 24 B2.6 B25 Policy X B4.4 B12 Program X B4.6.3 B26 Policy X B4.10 B27 Policy B13 Program Not Applicable (LUE) X Merged with Policy B19 GOAL B-6: Thriving Employment Districts at Stanford Research Park, Stanford Medical Center, East Bayshore/San Antonio Road Area and Bayshore Corridor that Complement the City s Business and Neighborhood Centers. B28 Policy X B3.2 B29 Policy X B3.3 B14 Program X B3.3.1 B15 Program X B3.3.2 B16 Program X B3.3.3 B30 Policy X B4.5 B17 Program X B4.5.1 B18 Program B31 Policy B32 Policy Not Applicable Not Applicable Complete X B33 Policy X B3.5 G8 Policy Moved from Governance Element X B6.1 Moved to/ from Elements=1 Policies & Programs Completed, Removed & Not Applicable=12 Policies changed to Programs or merged=7 No Change= 14 Edited= 27 Total = 38 Policies (24) and Programs (14) Draft Comprehensive Plan 207

208 NEW GOALS (6), POLICIES (32) AND PROGRAMS (35) ADDED GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS GOALS POLICIES PROGRAMS B1 B2 B3 B1.1 B1.1.1 B2.1.1 B3.4 B1.1.2 B2.1.2 B1.1.3 B2.1.3 B3.6 B1.2 B2.2 B2.2.1 B3.7 B1.3.1 B2.2.2 B3.8 B1.4 B2.2.3 B3.9 B2.3 B2.3.1 B2.3.2 B2.3.3 B2.4 B2.5 B2.5.1 B2.6.1 B2.6.2 B2.7 B2.8 B2.8.1 B2.8.2 B2.8.3 B2.9 B2.9.1 B2.9.2 B2.9.3 B2.10 B B B2.11 B B4 B5 B6 B4.5.2 B5.2 B5.2.1 B6.2 B4.6 B4.6.1 B5.4.1 B6.3 B4.6.2 B5.5.2 B6.4 B6.4.1 B4.7 B4.9 B5.5.3 B6.5 B4.11 B5.11 B6.6 B6.6.1 B4.12 B5.12 B6.7 B4.13 B5.13 B4.14 Draft Comprehensive Plan 208

209 Policies and Programs Deleted from the Business and Economics Element Policy/Program # Policy/Program Language Status CITYWIDE COMPATIBILITY GOAL B-1: A Thriving Business Environment that is Compatible with Palo Alto s Residential Character and Natural Environment. B3 Policy Recognize that Palo Alto s street tree system is an economic asset to the City Not Applicable DIVERSITY GOAL B-2: A Diverse Mix of Commercial, Retail, and Professional Service Businesses. B1Program GOAL B-3: B3 Program B12 Policy Initiate assessment districts or other programs to facilitate neighborhood shopping center improvements such as landscaping, parking, and access to public transportation. GROWTH New Businesses that Provide Needed Local Services and Municipal Revenues, Contribute to Economic Vitality, and Enhance the City s Physical Environment On an ongoing basis, evaluate opportunities for City involvement in public/private partnerships, including public investment in infrastructure and other improvements, siting of public art, and modification of land use regulations and other development controls. Encourage the private sector to participate in partnerships with nonprofit or public agencies to provide community benefits and services that would not otherwise be made available. Not Applicable Repetitive (Program exists in LUE) Repetitive (Policy exists in LUE) B4 Program B15 Policy GOAL B-4: B10 Program GOAL B-5: B18 Policy Develop the City Council approved fiber optic ring around the City as recommended in the 1996 Telecommunications Strategy Study and evaluate and implement enhancements to the system. Allow the creative use of City utilities and rights-of-way to ensure competition among networks in providing information systems infrastructure. FLEXIBILITY City Regulations and Operating Procedures that Provide Certainty and Predictability and Help Businesses Adapt to Changing Market Conditions. Revise zoning and other regulations as needed to encourage the revitalization of aging retail areas. CENTERS Attractive, Vibrant Business Centers, Each with a Mix of Uses and a Distinctive Character. Create incentives for providing multi-unit housing on top of parking lots in or near commercial centers and transit hubs. Repetitive Repetitive (Policy exists in LUE) Complete Repetitive (Policy exists in LUE) B13 Program Review the effect of size caps, parking requirements, and other land use restrictions on the viability and competitiveness of neighborhood centers. Repetitive (Policy exists in LUE) GOAL B-6: EMPLOYMENT DISTRICTS Thriving Employment Districts at Stanford Research Park, Stanford Medical Center, East Bayshore/San Antonio Road Area and Bayshore Corridor that Complement the City s Business and Neighborhood Centers. B18 Program Evaluate the location near the northwest corner of Page Mill Road and El Camino Real for a hotel and conference facility. Not Applicable B31 Policy Encourage incubator businesses in Stanford Research Park. Not Applicable Draft Comprehensive Plan 209

210 Policy/Program # Policy/Program Language Status B32 Policy Assist Stanford Medical Center in responding to changes in the delivery of health care services. Work with the Center to plan for changing facility needs, but within the context of planning goals and policies, as well as the goals and policies of other relevant jurisdictions. Complete Draft Comprehensive Plan 210

211 Final East Meadow Circle/Fabian Way Concept Plan As Approved by the Palo Alto City Council March 2012 Contents: 1. Introduction 2. West Bayshore Industrial Subarea 3. East of San Antonio Subarea 4. Charleston Road Subarea 5. Improvements to the Pedestrian and Bicycle Network Draft Comprehensive Plan 211

212 Draft Comprehensive Plan 212

213 Final East Meadow Circle / Fabian Way Concept Plan: Introduction Figure 1 West Bayshore Baylands The East Meadow Circle Concept Plan outlines a vision for the area roughly bounded by Highway 101, Charleston Road, and Louis Road in Palo Alto. The exact Plan Area is shown in Figure 1 at left. A product of a series of stakeholder meetings and well-attended public workshops held between February 2009 and November 2010, the Concept Plan identifies the kinds of uses and the types of future development that would be desirable in the Plan area. Barron Creek East Meadow Circle BrarCnorke Highway 101 As shown in Figure 1, the East Meadow Circle / Fabian Way area is composed of three subareas: the East Meadow Circle Subarea; the East of San Antonio Subarea; and the Charleston Road Subarea. The Concept Plan includes specific policies and programs pertaining to each subarea, as well as recommendations for improvements to the bicycle network in the plan area. Echelon Louis Vantage East Meadow AdobeCrek Fabian Way Adobe Creek Charleston AdobeCrek A Altaire TKCJL B C San Antonio Charleston Road Charleston Plaza Retail East Meadow/Fabian/West Bayshore Industrial Area East of San Antonio Subarea Charleston Road Subarea Adobe/Barron Creek As Approved by the Palo Alto City Council March 2012 Page 2 Draft Comprehensive Plan 213

214 Concept and Strategy Details for the Final EastEast Meadow Circle / Fabian Way Concept Plan: West Bayshore Industrial Final Meadow Circle/Fabian Way Area Concept Plan: Concept andsubarea Strategy Details for the Bayshore Industrial subarea East Meadow/Fabian/West Final East Meadow Circle/Fabian Way Area Concept Plan: Concept and Strategy Details for the Meadow/Fabian/West Bayshore Industrial subarea Final East Meadow Circle/Fabian Way Area Concept Plan: East East Meadow/Fabian/West Bayshore Industrial subarea Design Guidelines will consider these six combinations of conditions POLICY EMC-1: Encourage new development that willl retain and attract high-end R&D Design Guidelines will consider these combinations conditions when establishing tiered massing andsix height standardsofthat allow Design Guidelines will consider these combinations of conditions when establishing tiered massing andsix height standards that allow less development adjacent to existing single-family neighborhoods. when establishingadjacent tiered massing and single-family height standards that allow less development to existing neighborhoods. less development adjacent to existing single-family neighborhoods. Research Office Designation Research Office Designation Abuts single-family Research Office Designation Abuts single-family Abutssingle-family multi-family Abuts Abuts multi-family Does not abut residential Abuts multi-family Does not abut residential Does not abut residential Echelon Echelon Echelon Lo Lo uis R Louis oad uis Ro Road ad Vantage Vantage Vantage b Adob Adoob Ad rk dobec A rk dobec A rk dobec A oad n Road o t s arle n R ad Ch rleston Ro o a Charlest Ch Altaire Altaire Altaire SaSnaAnSnaAtnonnA toionntioonio e CerC eeerkecerkeek A d d o o b b e e C C rk A rk A d o b e C rk ow eadow M d t a s Ea t Meadow s e East M Ea ynaw y ay naw n aaw biabi FaFa bi Fa Ea Ea E st st as t y 1 y 1y 1 wa a a gh hwhw Hi HigHig le rc rclercle dow Ci ea M adow C i e Meadow Ci M Abuts single-family Abutssingle-family multi-family Abuts Abuts multi-family Does not abut residential Abuts multi-family Does not abut residential Does not abut residential Baylands Baylands Baylands Br Br Br Cr Cr C eekeerkeek e or re re sh ho ho ay aysays tb B B es st st W WeWe n rro Barron Barron Ba Light Industrial Designation Light Industrial Designation Abuts single-family Light Industrial Designation TKCJL TKCJL TKCJL Charleston Road Charleston Road Charleston Road POLICY EMC-1: Encourage development thatbetween willl retain andnew attract high-end R&D and related office use with new a successful transition such development and POLICY EMC-1: Encourage new development thatbetween willl retain andnew attract high-end R&D and related office use with a successful transition such development and existing single-family neighborhoods. and related office useneighborhoods. with a successful transition between such new development and existing single-family existing neighborhoods. Programsingle-family EMC-1.1 Establish criteria for determining that a proposal implements the Program EMC-1.1 Establish criteria determining a proposal implements the concept plan and for is thereby eligible that for increased intensity. Program EMC-1.1 Establish criteria determining that a proposal implements the concept plan and isforthereby eligible for increased intensity. Program EMC-1.2 concept Allow increased thateligible is limited an overall cap and is tiered to plan andintensity is thereby for by increased intensity. Program EMC-1.2 Allow increased intensityon that is limited by anexisting overallsingle-family cap and is tiered to allow less development parcels that abut homes. Program EMC-1.2 Allow increased intensityonthat is limited by an overallsingle-family cap and is tiered to allow less development parcels that abut existing homes. a. Establish a floor-area for each of the three single-family subareas thathomes. is allow less development oncap parcels that abut existing a. Establish floor-area each of the three subareas that is based onaaan average cap FAR.for a. based Establish cap for each of the three subareas that is on anfloor-area average FAR. b. based Createon a mechanism for transferring development intensity an average FAR. b. Create a mechanism for transferring from one parcel to another parcel. development intensity b. from Createone a mechanism for transferring parcel to another parcel. development intensity c. from Develop guidelines for new construction: one design parcel to another parcel. c. Develop design guidelines for new construction: i. Include stakeholders in thenew process. c. Develop design guidelines for construction: i.ii. Include stakeholders in the process. Establish tiered massing and height i. Include stakeholders in the process. standards for each of the ii. Establish tiereddefined massing standards for each of the six categories onand the height map (left). ii. Establish tiered massing and height standards for each of the six categories defined on the map (left). iii. six Establish criteria, standards, for setbacks and categories defined on theand maprequirements (left). iii. Establish criteria, standards, andabut requirements for setbacksneighand greenbelt buffers on parcels that existing single-family iii. Establish criteria, standards, andabut requirements for setbacks and greenbelt buffers on parcels that existing single-family neighborhoods.buffers Consider the advantages of evergreen plantings. (The greenbelt on parcels that abut existing single-family neighborhoods. the advantages evergreen plantings. (The presence ofconsider a creek may affect bufferof and setback requirements.). borhoods. Consider the affect advantages of evergreen plantings. (The presence of a creek may buffer and setback requirements.). iv. presence Consider of thea constraints and impacts associated construction creek may affect buffer and setbackwith requirements.). iv. Consider the constraints and impacts associated with construction within the 100-year flood zone, including, but not limited to clarifiiv. within Consider the constraints impacts associated construction the 100-year floodand zone, including, but(e.g., notwith limited to clarification of how building height is measured from natural or within the 100-year floodheight zone, including, but(e.g., not limited to clarification ofgrade.). how building is measured from natural or finished cation ofgrade.). how building height is measured (e.g., from natural or v. finished Considergrade.). the constraints and impacts associated with the potential finished v. Consider constraintsmaterials. and impacts associated with the potential presencethe of hazardous v. Consider the constraintsmaterials. and impacts associated with the potential presence of hazardous vi. presence Considerofthe advantages and disadvantages of podium hazardous materials. vi. Consider thepartially advantages and disadvantages podium parking and submerged podium parking.of deemed vi. Consider thepartially advantages and podium disadvantages ofifif deemed podium parking and submerged parking.and to be advantageous, establish criteria, standards, requireparking and partially establish submerged podium parking. If deemed to be advantageous, criteria, standards, and requirements. to be advantageous, establish criteria, standards, and requirements. ments. POLICY EMC-1.3 Support Space Systems Loral s efforts to keep pace with the expanding POLICY EMC-1.3 Support Space Systems Loral sincluding, efforts tobut keep with expanding telecommunications industry, notpace limited to,the support for the POLICY EMC-1.3 Support Space Systems Loral sincluding, efforts tobut keep pace with the expanding telecommunications industry, not limited to, support for the construction of a new facility--in an appropriate location--that will accomtelecommunications including, but not location--that limited to, support for the construction of a newindustry, facility--in an appropriate will accommodate the assembly of larger satellites. Note: This may include the allowconstruction of a new facility--in an appropriate location--that will accommodate the assembly ofexceeds larger satellites. Note: This limits. may include the allowance of a building that the normal height modate assembly larger satellites. Note: Thislimits. may include the allowance of athe building thatof exceeds the normal height Charleston POLICY EMC-1.4 Prohibit day care uses and all types of housing within the entire subarea. ance of a building that exceeds the normal height limits. Plaza Charleston POLICY EMC-1.4 Prohibit day care uses and all types of housing within the entire subarea. Plaza Charleston POLICY EMC-1.5 Prohibit school uses on parcels designated Light Industrial (corresponds POLICY EMC-1.4 Prohibit day care uses and all types of housing within the entire subarea.to Plaza POLICY EMC-1.5 Prohibit school uses on parcels designated Lightschool Industrial (corresponds General Manufacturing Zone) and allow uses only with to POLICY EMC-1.5 Prohibit school uses on parcels designated Light Industrial (corresponds toaa General Manufacturing Zone) and allow school uses only with Retail conditional-use-permit on parcels designated Research Office General Manufacturing Zone)parcels and allow school uses only with Retail conditional-use-permit designated Research Officea (corresponds to Research on Officeparcels Light Manufacturing Zone). Retail conditional-use-permit on designated Research Office (corresponds to Research Office Light Manufacturing Zone). (corresponds to Research Office Light Manufacturing Zone). As Approved by the Palo Alto City Council March 2012 Page 3 Draft Comprehensive Plan 214

215 Final East Meadow Circle/Fabian Way Area Concept Plan: Concept and Strategy Details for the Final East Meadow Circle / Fabian Way Concept Plan: East of San Antonio subarea East of San Antonio subarea Creek Barron Creek Louis East Meadow s West Bayshore West Bayshore East Meadow Circle BrarCnorke East Meadow Circle Charleston Charleston BrarCnorke Baylands Baylands Echelon Echelon Vantage AdobeCrek Vantage Adobe Creek AdobeCrek AdobeCrek Adobe Creek Fabian Way AdobeCrek Highway 101 Fabian Way Highway 101 Altaire San Antonio TKCJL Altaire TKCJL San Antonio Charleston Road Charleston Road Charleston Plaza Retail Charleston Plaza Retail POLICY EMC-2: Encourage new larger-scale commercial development that is revenue generating, that complements the recent new and large developments in the vicinity, and that provides a lively streetscape accommodating continued vehicle traffic and increased pedestrian traffic. Program EMC-2.1 Establish the City s support for larger-scale revenue-generating development consisting of uses such as retail, hotel, auto sales, etc., by amending the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning overlays to provide criteria for uses, intensity, and design. Program EMC-2.2 Allow increased intensity for qualifying projects--that is, graduated to encourage lot consolidation. Program EMC-2.3 Develop preliminary design guidelines for new development scenarios: a. Include stakeholders in the process. b. Explore use and design scenarios that consider the desirability, feasibility, and viability of: i. Uses such as retail, hotel, and auto dealership. ii. Traffic, ciruculation, streetscape enhancements, parking, and traffic-mitigation measures established in the environmental review. iii. Podium parking and upper floor retail. iv. Graduated FAR ranges including minimum and maximum sizes for sites and FARs. v. Graduated height scenarios. vi. Consider the constraints and impacts associated with the potential presence of hazardous materials. Program EMC-2.4 Work with property owners to assess the advantages, disadvantages, and challenges of lot consolidation (e.g., relocation issues.). POLICY EMC-3: Retain manufacturing and light industrial uses in the interim. POLICY EMC-3.1 Retain existing land use and zone designations. POLICY EMC-3.2 Prohibit daycare, school uses, and all types of housing. As Approved by the Palo Alto City Council March 2012 Page 4 Draft Comprehensive Plan 215

216 For Block B, The Plan specific concepts strategies Fairchild building. The Plan hashas specific concepts andand strategies for for thethe Fairchild building. For the remainder of Block B and for Blocks A and C, For the remainder of Block B and for Blocks A and C, The Plan only restricts certain uses. Way Concept Plan: Charleston Road subarea Final East Meadow Circle / Fabian The Plan only restricts certain uses. POLICY EMC-4: Retain rehabilitate the Fairchild building on Block POLICY EMC-4: Retain andand rehabilitate the Fairchild building on Block B. B. Baylands Baylands Program EMC-4.1 Explore opportunities to rehabilitate Fairchild Program EMC-4.1 Explore opportunities to rehabilitate the the Fairchild Building. Building. a. Work property owner to assess challenges a. Work withwith property owner to assess challenges suchsuch as parking, possible cleanclean up, flood-zone as parking, possible up, flood-zone requirements, etc. etc. requirements, b. Consider advantages and and disadvantages of of b. Consider advantages disadvantages adding the building to the Historic adding the building to City s the City s Historic Inventory. Inventory. BaronCek BaronCek Cr Creek e ek e or sh re ay ho t B ys es a W est B W Echelon Echelon LoL uiosui s 01 y1 1 wa 1 0 gh ay Highw Hi Ea East M st M dodwow ea ea C C le ircle irc n n rrorro BaBa Block Block B: B: Vantage Vantage Blocks A, B, Blocks A,&B,C:& C: POLICY EMC-5: Retain manufacturing and and lightlight industry on allonblocks. POLICY EMC-5: Retain manufacturing industry all blocks. b AdoAdob n sto n arle sto Ch harle C rk dobec A Altaire Altaire AA BB San Anton io San Anton io rk dobec A POLICY EMC-5.1 Prohibit daycare, school usesuses and and all types of housing. POLICY EMC-5.1 Prohibit daycare, school all types of housing. Fabian Way Fabian Way e Creek e Creek A d o b e C rk A d o b e C rk ow w eadeado M t s M EaEast TKCJL TKCJL Charleston Charleston Plaza Plaza Charleston Road Charleston Road A A Area Retail C Final East Meadow Circle/Fabian Way Concept Plan: Charleston Road subarea C Retail Concept and Strategy Details for the For Block B, The Plan has specific concepts and strategies for the Fairchild building. For the remainder of Block B and for Blocks A and C, The Plan only restricts certain uses. ay tb es W e or sh Baylands Draft Comprehensive Plan Block B: As Approved by the Palo Alto City Council March 2012 Page 5 POLICY EMC-4: Retain and rehabilitate the Fairchild building on Block B. 216 Fairchild Program EMC-4.1 Explore opportunities to rehabilitate the

217 Pedestrian/bike overpass across Pedestrian/bike overpass across Highway 101 to the Baylands Highway 101 to the Baylands Pedestrian/bike paths Pedestrian/bike paths Final East Meadow Circle / Fabian Way Concept Plan: Improvements to the Pedestrian and Bicycle Network Concept and Strategy Details for the e or sh ay tb es W hore s ay tb es W Final East Meadow Circle/Fabian Way Area Concept Plan: Improvements to the bicycle network newalong pedestrian and bicycle along Adobe POLICY EMC-6: Consider New routes the Adobe Creekroutes right-ofpolicy EMC-6: New routes along the Adobe Creek right-ofcreek right-of-way, Barron Creek, and Sterling Canal. way, Barron Creek, and Sterling Canal. way, Barron Creek, and Sterling Canal. including Santa Clara County Water Program EMC-6.1 Work Work with withstakeholders, stakeholders, including Santa Clara Pedestrian/bike overpass across Pedestrian/bike paths District, to plan these routes. Program EMC-6.1 Work with stakeholders, including Santa Clara Highway 101 to the Baylands County Water District. Baylands County Water District. Baylands 1 ay 01 POLICY EMC-7: 01 Echelon Echelon Cr e ek Cr e ek w gh 1 ay Ea st M Hi w gh Ea st M Hi Baylands Hi w gh Ea st M Vantage Vantage 1 ay 01 rk dobec A b Ado rk dobec A arl Ch on est TKCJL nio Altaire San Anton Sioan Anto rek dobc A Altaire A d o b e C rk b Ado San Anton io e Creek b Ado ow Fabian Way Fabian Way Vantage e Creek ead st M Ea is A d o b e C rk Lo u e Creek ow ead ow M t s ead Ea M st Ea F A d o b e C rk abian Way Echelon TKCJL Altaire Charleston PlazaCharleston Plaza Charleston Road Charleston Road Charleston Retail TKCJL n sto arle Ch sto arle Ch n underpass that will provide year-round access to the Baylands in the vicinity of the current seasonal the Baylands in the vicinity of the current seasonal underpass at Adobe Creek. Improve access to the Baylands underpass at Adobe Creek. Program EMC-7.1 Continue to pursue funding for the design and construction of a pedestrian/bike overpass/ underpass that will provide year-round access to the Baylands in the vicinity of the current seasonal underpass at Adobe Creek. do w C ea le irc Lo B uis Program EMC-6.1 Work withconstruction stakeholders, including Clara of a Santa pedestrian/bike underpass that will provide year-round accessoverpass/ to County Water District. BaronCek is n ro ar Improve access to the Baylands Program EMC-7.1 Continueofto apursue funding for overpass/ the design and construction pedestrian/bike BaronCek B Lo u do w C ean do w C o r ea ar irc n rro e oler isrhc ay tb es W le Ba BaronCek Cr e ek POLICY EMC-7: Improve the right-ofbaylands POLICYPOLICY EMC-6: EMC-7: New routes along theaccess Adobeto Creek Program EMC-7.1way,Continue to pursue funding Barron Creek, and Sterling Canal. for the design and Plaza Retail Charleston Road Retail New Pedestrian/bike overpass across Highway 101 to the Baylands New Pedestrian/bike overpass across Highway 101 to the Baylands New Pedestrian/bike paths Potential new pedestrian and bicycle overpass across Highway 101 to the New Pedestrian/bike overpass across Highway 101 to the Baylands New Pedestrian/bike paths Baylands. Potential new pedestrian and bicycle paths. New Pedestrian/bike paths As Approved by the Palo Alto City Council March 2012 Page 6 Draft Comprehensive Plan 217

218 Draft Comprehensive Plan 218

219 California Avenue Area Concept Plan Administrative Draft February 2014 CONTENTS: 1. Introduction 2. Future Planning Framework 3. Comprehensive Plan Land Use Designations 4. Goals, Policies, and Programs Draft Comprehensive Plan 219

220 Draft Comprehensive Plan 220

221 INTRODUCTION The California Avenue Area Concept Plan focuses on an area in central Palo Alto bounded roughly by Cambridge Avenue in the north, the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board (Caltrain) tracks to the east, Lambert Avenue to the south, and El Camino Real to the west. As shown in Figure CACP-1, the Concept Plan Area is home to a number of important Palo Alto landmarks and destinations, including the California Avenue Caltrain station, Fry's Electronics, the Santa Clara County Superior Courthouse, and a number of popular local institutions in the California Avenue Business District. With excellent access to transit and the availability of larger vacant or underutilized parcels for redevelopment, private developers have increasingly focused their attention on the Concept Plan area in recent years. Significant multi-family residential and mixed-use developments like the Sheridan Plaza development (1995) and the Palo Alto Central condominium complex (1983) set the table for recently approved projects like the mixed-use Park Plaza Development at 195 Page Mill Road. The Concept Plan Area has also been the focus of a number of recent planning initiatives undertaken by the City, and there are important regional corridor planning efforts in progress along its perimeter. These initiatives include: Pedestrian Transit-Oriented Development (PTOD) Combining District Regulations. Applicable to an area within walking distance (2,000 feet) of the California Avenue Caltrain station, the PTOD District regulations (Zoning Code Chapter 18.34) were incorporated into the Palo Alto Zoning Code in The District is intended to encourage a mix of context-sensitive, higher-density residential, commercial, and office development while also protecting surrounding low-density residential neighborhoods and historic resources. PTOD District regulations contain detailed development standards and design guidelines intended to promote a lively street environment, supporting and encouraging both pedestrian and bicycle activity. Draft Comprehensive Plan 221

222 C A L I F O R N I A A V E N U E A R E A C O N C E P T PALO ALTO COMPREHENSIVE PLAN P L A N PARK BOULEVARD SUBAREA Park Blvd. Oxford Ave Yale St Williams St Santa Rita Ave College Ave Cambridge Ave Washington Ave California Avenue Caltrain Station California Ave Ash St Santa Clara County Superior Court Sherman Ave Grant Ave Birch St Sarah Wallis Park Park Blvd Oregon Expwy El Camino Real Page Mill Road 220 Sheridan (Caffe Riace) Sheridan Ave go Or e xp ne Colo wy rado Ave 195 Page Mill Road Page Mill Road Ramona St Emerson St Alma St Pepper Ave (Park Plaza) Olive Ave Acacia Ave Fry s Electronics El Dorado Ave Portage Ave Hansen Way Concept Plan Area Lambert Ave California Avenue Business District PDA Boundary PTOD District Boundary El Carmelo Ave Source: ALTERNATIVE 3 FIGURE 1A F I 660 G Feet U R E C A C P -1 CONCEPT PLAN AREA Draft Comprehensive Plan 222

223 Palo Alto Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP). The BPTP was adopted in 2012 to strategically guide public and private investments in non-motorized transportation facilities and related programs. The Plan contains policy vision, design guidance, and specific recommendations intended to encourage walking and cycling in order to achieve local and regional targets for accommodating new growth, maintaining mobility, and reducing overall environmental impacts. California Avenue Transit Hub Corridor Streetscape Improvements Project. Currently in progress, this proposed project envisions streetscape improvements along California Avenue to better balance the needs of drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Proposed improvements include a reduction from four lanes to two lanes of travel, together with curb extensions, parking enhancements, traffic calming treatments, landscaping elements, street furniture, and place-making identity markers. El Camino Real Design Guidelines Update. In August 2013, City Council directed the Architectural Review Board and the Planning and Transportation Commission to recommend zoning changes and revisions to the south El Camino guidelines, adopted in 2002 to promote a more vibrant El Camino Real. Existing guidelines encourage wider sidewalks, outdoor seating, and other pedestrian amenities where appropriate; however, as the guidelines are not codified in law, developers are not required to meet them. The current initiative will re-examine sidewalk widths, setbacks, and building massing and articulation in order to develop updated requirements that will result in buildings designed to address the street and enhance the public right-of-way. Priority Development Area (PDA) Designation. The has designated much of the Concept Plan Area as a Priority Development Area (PDA) as part of the Bay Area's regional development and conservation strategy. PDAs are designated by the City, based on criteria established by the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), as areas that are served by transit and can accommodate additional infill development. The PDA designation makes the California Avenue area eligible funding from regional agencies for technical assistance, planning grants, and capital infrastructure. The boundaries of the California Avenue Area PDA are shown in Figure CACP-1. Draft Comprehensive Plan 223

224 Rail Corridor Study. Prepared under the direction of a 17-member task force and approved by the Palo Alto City Council in January 2013, this report sets out a community vision for land use, transportation, and urban design opportunities along the Caltrain corridor and includes recommendations in response to the California High Speed Rail project and regional improvements to fixed rail services along tracks through Palo Alto. The Study identifies the California Avenue area as an important area with a strong pedestrian and transit-oriented mix of uses. The Study recognizes this as one of the key areas that can accommodate much of the city s future development, but must be approached carefully. Grand Boulevard Initiative. This major regional corridor planning initiative is a collaboration of 19 cities, counties, local and regional agencies united to improve the performance, safety, and aesthetics of El Camino Real from Daly City in the north to the Diridon Caltrain Station in central San Jose. The overarching objective is to enhance the corridor, ensuring the corridor achieves its full potential as a place for residents to work, live, shop and play, and creating links between communities that promote walking and transit and an improved and meaningful quality of life. The purpose of this Concept Plan is to lay out a unifying vision that weaves together the City's recent planning initiatives in order to guide future development and redevelopment in the Concept Plan Area, while preserving and enhancing the quality of life in residential neighborhoods in and adjacent to the Concept Plan area. Developed on the basis of public input received during a series of four community meetings between 2010 and 2012, the Concept Plan generally maintains existing Comprehensive Plan land use designations. It is intended as a tool to help the public and decision makers frame the context for future planning in this sector of the city. FUTURE PLANNING FRAMEWORK Based on input from the community at public meetings held early in the Concept Plan process, three distinct subareas were identified, as shown on Figure CACP-2: the California Avenue subarea, the Park Boulevard subarea, and the Fry s site subarea. These subareas represent sectors of the Concept Plan area that can accommodate change; locations outside of the subareas are not likely to change and the Concept Plan supports the continuation of their current character. Each subarea has its own set of opportunities and challenges, which are described below. Additionally, Draft Comprehensive Plan 224

225 C A L I F O R N I A A V E N U E A R E A C O N C E P T P L A N College Avenue SUBAREA I: CALIFORNIA AVENUE California Avenue Caltrain Station California Ave Santa Clara County Superior Court Sarah Wallis Park 220 Sheridan (Caffe Riace) SUBAREA II: PARK BOULEVARD ay ssw gon Ore re Exp 195 Page Mill Road (Park Plaza) Olive Ave SUBAREA III: FRY S SITE Alma Street Pepper Ave Park Blvd El Camino Real Page Mill Road Fry s Electronics Dumbarton Express Service Stanford Marguerite Shuttle Service VTA Routes 22 and 522 VTA Route 89 Existing Bicycle Boulevard Existing Class II Bike Route Existing Class III Bike Route Planned Class II Bike Lane Planned Pedestrian Trail PTOD District Boundary Future California Avenue BRT Stop FIGURE 1A F IGURE C ACP-2 EXISTING CONDITIONS AND SUBAREA BOUNDARIES Draft Comprehensive Plan 225

226 community input helped to establish several important area-wide themes. This Concept Plan presents a future planning framework that addresses both the areawide themes as well as the specific opportunities and challenges in each of the subareas. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN LAND USE DESIGNATIONS The Concept Plan area contains a mix of residential, commercial, and light industrial/office uses. As shown in Figure CACP-3, commercial land use designations currently apply to nearly half of the Concept Plan area, with Community Commercial concentrated along California Avenue and Cambridge Avenue near the California Avenue Caltrain station, and Service Commercial concentrated around the Fry's site. Residential designations generally apply near the center of the Concept Plan area, with Multi-Family Residential north of the Oregon Expressway and an enclave of Single-Family Residential along Olive and Pepper Avenues. The Major Institution/Special Facility designation applies to the Santa Clara County Superior Courthouse. The Light Industrial and Research/Office Park designations apply along Park Boulevard and Page Mill Road south of the Oregon Expressway. As shown in Figure CACP-3 and on Table CACP-1, the Concept Plan maintains almost all of the current 2010 Comprehensive Plan land use designations, with the exception of the Fry's site, which would change from its current Service Commercial designation to a Mixed-Use designation. Additionally, Figure CACP-3 shows the location of the Technology Corridor Overlay that would be created through the implementation of Programs CACP and CACP A draft overlay designation is presented below. This will become a new overlay in the Comprehensive Plan once the California Avenue Area Concept Plan is approved by Palo Alto City Council. TECHNOLOGY CORRIDOR OVERLAY This overlay designation is intended to encourage small-scale, technology-related businesses that are compatible with the character of the surrounding neighborhoods. Allowable uses include offices, research and development facilities, ground floor retail and commercial space, and multi-family residences. Maximum allowable FAR is 1.5. Draft Comprehensive Plan 226

227 Yale St El Camino Real El Camino Real Ash St Ash St Park Blvd Park Blvd CALIFORNIA AVENUE AREA CONCEPT PLAN Leland Ave Existing Stanford Ave Proposed Oxford Ave Oxford Ave College Ave College Ave Williams St Cambridge Ave Cambridge Ave Sherman Ave S California Ave Grant Ave Birch St Courthouse High St Oregon Ave Sherman Ave S California Ave Grant Ave Birch St Courthouse High St Sheridan Ave Oregon Expy Page Mill Rd Alma St Colorado Ave Sheridan Ave Oregon Expy Page Mill Rd Alma St Pepper Ave Olive Ave Emerson St Ramona St Bryant St South Ct Pepper Ave Waverley St Olive Ave Emerson St Portage Ave Fry's Electronics el Dorado Ave Portage Ave Fry's Electronics Lambert Ave Lambert Ave Chestnut Ave Chestnut Ave ,000 Feet Fernando Ave Residential Single Family Res Multi-Family Res Mixed Use Commercial Service Commercial Neighborhood Commercial Regional/Community Commercial Business/Industrial Light Industrial Research/Office Park Other Major Institution/Special Facility Public Park Concept Plan Area Technology Corridor Overlay Cal Train Stations Source:, 2013; USGS, 2010; NHD 2013; ESRI, 2010; Tiger Lines, 2010; The Planning Center DC&E, FIGURE CACP-3 COMPARISON OF EXISTING AND PROPOSED COMPREHENSIVE PLAN LAND USE DESIGNATIONS IN THE CONCEPT PLAN AREA Draft Comprehensive Plan 227

228 TABLE CACP-1 COMPARISON OF EXISTING AND PROPOSED COMPREHENSIVE PLAN LAND USE DESIGNATIONS IN THE CONCEPT PLAN AREA Land Use Designation Existing Proposed Development Standard Acres % Acres % Residential Non- Residential Single-Family Residential % % 1 to 14 du/acre N/A Multi-Family Residential % % 8 to 40 du/acre N/A Mixed-Use % % 1.15 FAR up to 3.0 FAR Neighborhood Commercial % % N/A 0.4 FAR Service Commercial % % N/A 0.4 FAR Regional/Community Commercial % % N/A 0.35 to 2 FAR Research/Office Park % % N/A 0.3 to 0.5 FAR Major Institution/Special Facility % % N/A N/A Light Industrial % % N/A up to 0.5 FAR Public Park % % N/A N/A GOALS, POLICIES, AND PROGRAMS AREA-WIDE THEMES As shown in Figure CACP-2, the Concept Plan area is made up of the three subareas, a single-family residential enclave centered on Olive and Pepper Avenues, and multifamily residential development along Sheridan Avenue and Page Mill Road. There are also established single-family residential neighborhoods surrounding the Concept Plan area to the north, south, east and southwest. Outside of the subareas, the community has expressed a strong desire for neighborhood preservation and enhanced quality of life. The key planning challenge for the Concept Plan area will be fostering an appropriate level of change in the subareas, while preserving and enhancing the quality of life in adjacent residential neighborhoods. Draft Comprehensive Plan 228

229 Table CACP-2 describes a range of recently approved projects and pending development proposals. Given the level of interest developers have shown for sites in the Concept Plan area, there are concerns in the community for adverse effects to neighborhood character and quality of life from new development. Chief among these are concerns for roadway safety, traffic and parking issues, and aesthetics and architectural character. There are mechanisms already in place or currently in development that can help manage change in a way that addresses community concerns, including the plans and studies described in the Introduction, above. For example, the City is considering enhancing its existing transportation demand management policy and will continue to work with the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) in developing multi-modal level of services standards that establish acceptable travel conditions for a range of roadway users. The City's robust project approval process will also help to ensure that future development proposals are vetted in public forums with ample opportunity for community input. Design review by the City's Architectural Review Board and implementation of the PTOD District regulations will help ensure a cohesive character in line with community standards. New development will require in-depth studies of potential environmental, safety, or aesthetic impacts, and detailed mitigation measures to reduce any identified impacts. It will be important to carefully consider cumulative traffic, noise, and pollution effects in evaluating future development proposals, and the future planning framework should also encourage consideration for the design of open spaces in the public realm. GOAL CACP-1 Policy CACP-1.1 Provide a framework for managing change in identified subareas while preserving the existing character of surrounding residential neighborhoods and shopping districts. Preserve the existing single-family residential character of the Olive/Pepper enclave. Program CACP Consider cumulative traffic, noise, pollution, aesthetic effects, and parking impacts from new development adjacent to residential neighborhoods when reviewing new development and redevelopment in the Concept Plan area. Draft Comprehensive Plan 229

230 TABLE CACP-2 MAJOR RECENT AND PENDING DEVELOPMENTS IN THE CONCEPT PLAN AREA (AS OF NOVEMBER 2013) Approved Projects 420 Cambridge Avenue 2640 Birch Street 195 Page Mill Road 260 California Avenue 3159 El Camino Real Pending Project Applications 2755 El Camino Real 3255 El Camino Real First project in the Pedestrian/Transit-Oriented Development (PTOD) Overlay Area. A 7,700-square-foot development with four residential units and ground floor retail space. Second project in the PTOD Overlay Area. Under construction as of fall A 4-story mixed-use development of 25,000 square feet with office on the ground floor and eight townhomes above; all rental. Mixed-use residential/research & development project currently under construction. The project features 50,000 square feet of ground floor research and development space, with 84 residential units above. A new 3-story office/retail building with approximately 27,000 square feet of gross floor area on a 13,500-square-foot project site. Four-story, 74,000-square-foot mixed-use building with residential and commercial on the Equinox site. Date Approved March 2010 April 2012 June 2012 June 2013 A proposed 4-story, 33,500-square-foot mixed-use building with 3 stories of belowgrade parking on the site of an existing VTA lot. A proposed mixed-use project involving two buildings totaling 28,000 square feet. Proposed are a 2-story commercial building and one 4-story, eight-unit mixed-use building with ground floor retail and three floors of residential. The project will also include a below-grade parking garage. 385 Sherman Avenue A proposed 3-story mixed-use building totaling 55,500 square feet of space. 441 Page Mill Road 21,500 square feet of commercial space and eight residential units with one level of below-grade parking. Policy CACP-1.2 Policy CACP-1.3 Encourage mixed-use and multi-family infill developments, particularly with smaller units, on appropriate underutilized sites throughout the concept plan area in order to capitalize on opportunities to provide a range of neighborhood housing, close gaps in the neighborhood fabric, and foster the development of publicly accessible open spaces and plazas. On appropriate sites in the Concept Plan area, encourage development at the higher end of the allowed density range. Draft Comprehensive Plan 230

231 Policy CACP-1.4 Balance the needs of neighborhood residents and the daytime population of the Concept Plan area. Program CACP Conduct an area-wide parking needs assessment to quantify the amount of parking necessary to support additional residential, retail, and office development in the Concept Plan area. Program CACP Based on the findings of the area-wide parking needs assessment, develop a strategy to manage parking supply and demand that considers options for parking policy, parking restrictions, parking pricing, shared parking, and additional structured parking. Policy CACP-1.5 Prioritize roadway safety for all users. Program CACP Periodically evaluate the need for additional traffic calming measures on local roadways to maintain safe residential streets. Program CACP Work with residents and the Palo Alto Police Department to ensure optimum enforcement of traffic controls. Policy CACP-1.6 Policy CACP-1.7 Improve circulation for active modes of transport, including walking, cycling, and inline skating. Coordinate bicycle and pedestrian planning initiatives, with other regional and local initiatives, including Safe Routes to School and Bay Area Bike Share. Policy CACP-1.8 Encourage incorporation of rooftop gardens, green roofs, and public open spaces into building and site design as redevelopment occurs in the Concept Plan area. Policy CACP-1.9 Recognize the California Avenue area, including Park Boulevard, as an appropriate location for a public safety building. Draft Comprehensive Plan 231

232 CALIFORNIA AVENUE SUBAREA This subarea extends from El Camino Real to the California Avenue Caltrain Station, with California Avenue at its heart. The subarea encompasses the California Avenue Business District and includes Sheridan and Cambridge Avenues, as shown in Figure CACP-4. California Avenue was originally the main commercial thoroughfare of the Town of Mayfield, and today it still offers small town shopping in the heart of Palo Alto. Locally owned small businesses on California and Cambridge Avenues cater to the daily needs of residents and commuters alike, with a wide variety of retail and personal service businesses, as well as a popular weekend farmers' market. At the eastern edge of the subarea, the California Avenue Caltrain station provides an important gateway to the city for nearly 1,000 weekday commuters travelling to jobs in Palo Alto. Planning throughout the Concept Plan Area should support the existing neighborhood-oriented commercial character of the subarea and enhance its vitality. People are the key to vitality. Strategies that bring local residents, commuters, and workers to the Concept Plan Area will help strengthen its retail role and stimulate its economic and social vitality. Additionally, carefully crafted development standards and design guidelines can help to activate the street and create safer, more comfortable public spaces, attracting more people to the subarea. With the PTOD District Regulations and the California Avenue Transit Hub Corridor Streetscape Improvements project, the City has already taken important steps toward supporting the vitality of the California Avenue subarea. Together, these planning initiatives provide a framework to guide development and redevelopment in the subarea. As development and redevelopment occur, strategies to optimize parking availability will be required. Attention will also be needed to improve connections between the County Courthouse and California Avenue in order to ensure this important destination remains linked to California Avenue and the Caltrain station. Draft Comprehensive Plan 232

233 C A L I F O R N I A A V E N U E A R E A C O N C E P T P L A N VTA Routes 22 and 522 VTA Route 89 Dumbarton Express Service O x for d A v e Stanford Marguerite Shuttle Service Existing Class II Bike Route Planned Class II Bike Lane Existing Class III Bike Route C o llege Ave Existing Bicycle Boulevard Future California Ave BRT Stop Cambridge Ave California Ave Park Blvd Sherman Ave California Avenue Caltrain Station Santa Clara County Suporior Court Public Parking Lots Grant Ave Sheridan Ave El Camino Real Page Mill Rd Ore E gon xpw y Page Mill Rd Alma St California Avenue Subarea California Avenue Business District PTOD District Boundary FIGURE CACP-4 CALIFORNIA AVENUE SUBAREA Draft Comprehensive Plan 233 Or

234 GOAL CACP-2 Support the California Avenue subarea as an attractive, transit-rich neighborhood shopping district. Policy CACP-2.1 Policy CACP-2.2 Maintain the existing neighborhood-oriented commercial character of California Avenue and Cambridge Avenue. Encourage mixed-use residential development, particularly with smaller units, at the higher end of the allowed density range that promotes the social and economic vitality of the California Avenue Business District while maintaining its neighborhood-oriented commercial character. Program CACP Hold a design competition to generate innovative concepts for the use of City-owned parking lots and structures. Policy CACP-2.3 Encourage a mix of residential, retail, and personal service uses consistent with the PTOD Combining District Regulations. Program CACP Consider revising the PTOD Combining District Regulations to further incentivize mixed-use development Program CACP Consider adding minimum on storefront width to the design standards for the California Avenue Pedestrian Transit-Oriented District (TOD) contained in the Zoning Ordinance. Policy CACP-2.4 Maintain existing multi-family residential uses and encourage new multi-family residential development, particularly with smaller units, at the higher end of the allowed density range on appropriate under-utilized sites where adequate parking can also be provided. Policy CACP-2.5 Support development of a hotel and associated hospitality uses on El Camino Real, in proximity to transit. Policy CACP-2.6 Require active uses on the ground floor of buildings fronting California and Cambridge Avenues, including retail uses, personal service uses, and other uses that provide opportunities for people to come and go throughout the day. Policy CACP-2.7 Encourage implementation of the California Avenue Pedestrian Transit-Oriented District (PTOD) design guidelines. Draft Comprehensive Plan 234

235 Program CACP Meet with merchants and property owners to discuss opportunities to streamline and facilitate implementation of the design guidelines, including provisions applicable to the design of buildings, public spaces, and bicycle and pedestrian amenities. Policy CACP-2.8 Policy CACP-2.9 Policy CACP-2.10 Policy CACP-2.11 Policy CACP-2.12 Policy CACP-2.13 Capitalize on the proximity of the California Avenue Caltrain station to major employment centers such as the Stanford Research Park in order to bring more weekday commuters to the California Avenue subarea. Work with employers to encourage employee transit use through the development of shuttle programs and the provision of transit passes. Create a pedestrian gateway for the County Courthouse and foster better connections with California Avenue. Work with transit agencies, including Caltrain and VTA, to ensure that the California Avenue subarea continues to be adequately served by transit as development and redevelopment occurs. Together with Caltrain and VTA, evaluate opportunities to improve shuttle service connections from the California Avenue Caltrain station to the Stanford Research Park and other employment centers in proximity to the subarea. Promote the use of active transportation, including walking and bicycling, to local shops as an alternative to vehicles for residents of the surrounding neighborhoods. Program CACP Consider creating incentives for local business owners to provide bicycle parking on California and Cambridge Avenues as a way to encourage local residents to bicycle rather than drive to shops. Program CACP Coordinate implementation of future California Avenue streetscape improvements with implementation of the Bay Area Bike Share program in Palo Alto. Draft Comprehensive Plan 235

236 Program CACP Evaluate the need for improvements to the Caltrain underpass at California Avenue to improve safety and access for cyclists and pedestrians. Consider improvements that would address issues such as connectivity with the Park Boulevard Bicycle Boulevard and for bicycle and pedestrian access to the underpass order to accommodate via Page Mill Road. PARK BOULEVARD SUBAREA The Park Boulevard subarea includes the area east of Park Boulevard to the railway tracks and south from California Avenue almost to Lambert Avenue, as well as the block bounded by Olive, Ash, and Page Mill Road west of Park Boulevard. The precise boundaries of the subarea are shown in Figure-CACP-5. This sector of the city contains large parcels adjacent to the railway tracks and has attracted significant interest from private developers in recent years. State regulations will require remediation of any remnant contamination still present on former industrial sites in the subarea before development can take place. Construction has begun of a three-story building with research and development uses at ground level and 84 residential units above at 195 Page Mill Road. The subarea is also home to many technology firms, including AOL, Groupon, and numerous smaller companies. Palo Alto has a global reputation as an incubator of Silicon Valley talent, and there is an opportunity to build on the nucleus of smallscale technology-related enterprises already located in the subarea to create a technology corridor that attracts and nurtures even more innovators and entrepreneurs. Park Boulevard is a highly travelled bicycle corridor and a popular commute route. Park Blvd. has been designated as a Bicycle Boulevard in the City's Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan, prioritizing it for bicycle traffic. Striped bicycle lanes and distinctive green paint have been added to the roadway surface to demarcate a clear path for cyclists. Although data from the Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) does not indicate the rate of collisions involving cyclists is higher relative to other parts of the city, pedestrian and bicycle safety is a significant community concerns. Going forward, a key challenge will be to improve roadway safety throughout the subarea as development and redevelopment occur. Application of PTOD District development standards for the pedestrian and bicycle Draft Comprehensive Plan 236

237 C A L I F O R N I A A V E N U E A R E A C O N C E P T P L A N Wa s h in g t on Ave California Ave California Avenue Caltrain Station Sherman Ave Park Blvd Grant Ave Oregon Expwy El Camino Real Sheridan Ave Ore Ex gon pwy Page Mill Road Alma St 195 Page Mill Road Pepper Ave Olive Ave Groupon VTA Routes 22 and 522 VTA Route 89 Dumbarton Express Service Hansen Way Stanford Marguerite Shuttle Service Existing Class II Bike Route Planned Class II Bike Lane Existing Class III Bike Route Existing Bicycle Boulevard Future California Ave BRT Stop Park Boulevard Subarea PTOD District Boundary FIGURE CACP-5 PARK BOULEVARD SUBAREA Draft Comprehensive Plan 237

238 environment will also bring improvements to the public realm. However, continued focus will be needed to ensure that adequate pedestrian infrastructure is provided as development occurs. GOAL CACP-3 Promote Park Boulevard as an important hub of innovation and entrepreneurship for small new companies. Policy CACP-3.1 Strengthen Park Boulevard's nascent identity as a technology corridor. Program CACP Work with developers and property owners to determine appropriate incentives for encouraging smaller, technology-related firms to locate on Park Boulevard. Update the zoning code as necessary to incorporate these incentives. Program CACP Adopt a new Technology Corridor Overlay applicable to parcels east of Park Boulevard between Oregon Expressway and Lambert Avenue. Policy CACP-3.2 Favor mixed-use development proposals that provide research and development or office uses on the ground floor, with smaller residences or live/work spaces on upper floors, as appropriate. Policy CACP-3.3 Encourage development at the higher end of the allowed density range that is consistent with the standards for context-sensitive design and active street frontage contained in the PTOD District regulations. Policy CACP-3.4 Work with property owners to ensure remediation of remnant contamination required for compliance with federal, State, and local regulations. GOAL CACP-4 Ensure Park Boulevard provides safe, easy, and comfortable access for cyclists and pedestrians. Policy CACP-4.1 Prioritize roadway safety for pedestrians and cyclists, while balancing the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers on Park Boulevard. Draft Comprehensive Plan 238

239 Program CACP Monitor the rate of accidents involving cyclists and pedestrians. Program CACP Study alternate routes to Caltrain stations that could provide safer, more direct access for cyclists and pedestrians. Consider access via Page Mill Road. Policy CACP-4.2 Policy CACP-4.3 Policy CACP-4.4 Recognize Park Boulevard as a designated Bicycle Boulevard and continue to implement strategies from the Bicycle Boulevard Design Toolbox that support its role as a key thoroughfare in the City's bicycle network. Require new office uses along Park Boulevard to provide ample bicycle parking for employees. Enhance the pedestrian environment along Park Boulevard with such improvements as wider sidewalks, restriped crosswalks, or additional pedestrian amenities. Program CACP Survey the pedestrian environment along Park Boulevard and incorporate additional recommendations for improvements into the BPTP as appropriate. FRY'S SITE SUBAREA The Fry's Site subarea is generally bounded by El Camino Real, Lambert Avenue, Park Boulevard, and Olive Avenue as shown in Figure CACP-6. The subarea is home to the Palo Alto location of consumer electronics retailer Fry's Electronics, a popular regional shopping destination, located in the interior of the subarea. Given the current trend for large format retailers to locate in areas with excellent freeway access, Fry's may opt to relocate when the option on its current lease expires. Fry's is located on a single large parcel, and should the retailer leave the subarea in the future, there is a significant redevelopment opportunity. The Fry's site subarea also contains a varied mixture of commercial, retail, and office uses, including commercial and retail establishments fronting El Camino Real, professional offices near the interior of the subarea, and smaller technology-related firms closer to Park Boulevard. Single-family homes are found along Olive Avenue. A channelized portion of Matadero Creek runs through the southern portion of the subarea. Draft Comprehensive Plan 239