Agenda PacketThis will be a teleconference meeting without a physical location.
Monday, June 13, 2022
6:30 PM
Televised Joint Parks and Recreation Commission, Planning Commission, and Bicycle Pedestrian
Commission Special Meeting
TELECONFERENCE / PUBLIC PARTICIPATION INFORMATION TO HELP STOP THE
SPREAD OF COVID-19
In accordance with Government Code 54953(e), this will be a teleconference meeting
without a physical location to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
Members of the public wishing to observe the meeting may do so in one of the following
ways:
1) Tune to Comcast Channel 26 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 on your TV.
2) The meeting will also be streamed live on and online at www.Cupertino.org/youtube
and www.Cupertino.org/webcast
Members of the public wishing comment on an item on the agenda may do so in the
following ways:
1) E-mail comments by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, June 13, 2022 to the Commissions at
parksandrecreationcommission@cupertino.org, planningcommission@cupertino.org, and
bikepedcommission@cupertino.org. These e-mail comments will be received by the
commission members before the meeting and posted to the City’s website after the
meeting.
2) E-mail comments during the times for public comment during the meeting to the
Commission at parksandrecreationcommission@cupertino.org. The staff liaison will read
the emails into the record, and display any attachments on the screen, for up to 3 minutes
(subject to the Chair’s discretion to shorten time for public comments). Members of the
public that wish to share a document must email
parksandrecreationcommission@cupertino.org prior to speaking.
3) Teleconferencing Instructions
Members of the public may observe the teleconference meeting or provide oral public
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
AGENDA
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION,
PLANNING COMMISSION, AND
BICYCLE PEDESTRIAN COMMISSION
Parks and Recreation Commission
Planning Commission
Bicycle Pedestrian Commission Agenda June 13, 2022
comments as follows:
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be made during “oral communications” for matters not on the agenda, and during the
public comment period for each agenda item.
To address the Commission, click on the link below to register in advance and access the
meeting:
Online
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After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about
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Please read the following instructions carefully:
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instructions on how to connect to the meeting. Your email address will not be disclosed to
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Parks and Recreation Commission
Planning Commission
Bicycle Pedestrian Commission Agenda June 13, 2022
the public. If you wish to make an oral public comment but do not wish to provide your
name, you may enter “Cupertino Resident” or similar designation.
3. When the Chair calls for the item on which you wish to speak, click on “raise hand.”
Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak.
4. When called, please limit your remarks to the time allotted and the specific agenda topic.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), anyone who is planning to
attend this teleconference meeting who is visually or hearing impaired or has any disability
that needs special assistance should call the City Clerk's Office at 408-777-3223, at least 6
hours in advance of the meeting to arrange for assistance. In addition, upon request, in
advance, by a person with a disability, meeting agendas and writings distributed for the
meeting that are public records will be made available in the appropriate alternative
format.
NOTICE AND CALL FOR A JOINT SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CUPERTINO PARKS
AND RECREATION COMMISSION, CUPERTINO PLANNING COMMISSION, AND
CUPERTINO BICYCLE PEDESTRIAN COMMISSION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a special joint meeting of the Cupertino Parks and
Recreation Commission, Cupertino Planning Commission, and Cupertino Bicycle
Pedestrian Commission is hereby called for Monday, June 13, 2022, commencing at 6:30
p.m. In accordance with Government Code 54953(e), this will be a teleconference meeting
without a physical location to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Said special meeting shall
be for the purpose of conducting business on the subject matters listed below under the
heading, "Special Meeting."
SPECIAL MEETING
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
This portion of the meeting is reserved for persons wishing to address the Commission on any matter
within the jurisdiction of the Commission and not on the agenda. Speakers are limited to three (3)
minutes. In most cases, State law will prohibit the Commission from making any decisions with respect
to a matter not on the agenda.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
NEW BUSINESS
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Parks and Recreation Commission
Planning Commission
Bicycle Pedestrian Commission Agenda June 13, 2022
1.Subject: Consider an update to the Joint Commission on the status of the
Environmental Summary Report, public outreach process, and next steps for the
Lawrence-Mitty Master Plan project.
Recommended Action: Receive an update on the status of the Environmental
Summary Report, public outreach process, and provide input on next steps for the
Lawrence-Mitty Master Plan project.
Staff Report
A - Draft Environmental Summary Report
B - Draft Community Outreach Summary Report
ADJOURNMENT
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), anyone who is planning to attend this
meeting who is visually or hearing impaired or has any disability that needs special assistance should
call the City Clerk's Office at 408-777-3223, at least 6 hours in advance of the meeting to arrange for
assistance. In addition, upon request, in advance, by a person with a disability, meeting agendas and
writings distributed for the meeting that are public records will be made available in the appropriate
alternative format.
Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the members after publication of the agenda will
be made available for public inspection. Please contact the City Clerk’s Office in City Hall located at
10300 Torre Avenue, Cupertino, California 95014, during normal business hours.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please be advised that pursuant to Cupertino Municipal Code section
2.08.100 written communications sent to the Cupertino City Council, Commissioners or City staff
concerning a matter on the agenda are included as supplemental material to the agendized item. These
written communications are accessible to the public through the City’s website and kept in packet
archives. Do not include any personal or private information in written communications to the City
that you do not wish to make public, as written communications are considered public records and will
be made publicly available on the City website.
Members of the public are entitled to address the members concerning any item that is described in the
notice or agenda for this meeting, before or during consideration of that item. If you wish to address the
members on any other item not on the agenda, you may do so during the public comment.
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
Agenda Item
22-11066 Agenda Date: 6/13/2022
Agenda #: 1.
Subject: Consider an update to the Joint Commission on the status of the Environmental Summary
Report, public outreach process, and next steps for the Lawrence-Mitty Master Plan project.
Receive an update on the status of the Environmental Summary Report, public outreach process, and
provide input on next steps for the Lawrence-Mitty Master Plan project.
CITY OF CUPERTINO Printed on 6/9/2022Page 1 of 1
powered by Legistar™5
JOINT COMMISSION STAFF REPORT
Special Meeting: June 13, 2022
Subject
Consider an update to the Joint Commission on the status of the Environmental
Summary Report, public outreach process, and next steps for the Lawrence-Mitty Master
Plan project.
Recommended Action
Receive an update on the status of the Environmental Summary Report, public outreach
process, and provide input on next steps for the Lawrence-Mitty Master Plan project.
Background
Since 2002, the City of Cupertino worked to accomplish the acquisition, annexation, and
development of a neighborhood park on several acres of land along Lawrence-Mitty.
The Lawrence-Mitty site consists of two parcels (APN 375-21-001 and 375-22-001) and
totals approximately 7.83 acres. The Saratoga Creek channel runs through the site at the
western boundary, reducing the developable area to approximately 5.92 acres. The
eastern boundary of the site is adjacent to Lawrence Expressway. The development of
the site as a park facility and open space is a high priority for residents on the eastern
side of the City.
In anticipation of annexation, the City pre-zoned the site as Park/Recreation Zone (Pre-
PR) in 2007. Development of the site as a park and trail extension was clearly articulated
in the 2020 Park and Recreation System Master Plan as Master Plan Goal MP3, Equitable
Access (MP3.8.viii.) Additionally, the site was included in the 1999 San Tomas
Aquino/Saratoga Creek Trail Master Plan as part of “Reach 5” of the trail system.
Therefore, a primary element of the improvement of this site will be development of a
trail.
In July 2020, City Council passed Resolution 20-092, approving the purchase of the
Lawrence-Mitty site from the Santa Clara County Roads and Airports Department for
the sum of $2.69 million. The site is in transition from being within the jurisdiction, City
limits, and urban service area of the City of San Jose to the City of Cupertino. In April,
the Local Agency Formation Commission of Santa Clara County (LAFCO) approved the
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City’s request for annexation. The administrative stage of the annexation process is in
progress and expected to be completed soon.
After nearly 20 years of discussions, negotiations, and planning associated with the site,
the City is ready to move into the next phase of site-specific planning and design. The
City aims to develop amenities which align with the goals of the 2020 Parks and
Recreation System Master Plan and address the needs of local residents. The City is in
the process of working closely with our residents, professional consultants, and
jurisdictional partners to provide a feasible conceptual design for the site.
At the May 17 City Council meeting, Council requested that the current project scope
include full design services and construction. The City is in the process of negotiation
with MIG and will work to secure an addendum to the contract prior to commencement
of preliminary design by MIG.
Discussion
With up to 5.92 acres of developable land, the Lawrence-Mitty site has the potential to
provide several open space and park amenities for the public. The open space adjacent
to the creek offers residents opportunities to walk, ride, learn, and play, which is critical
for a healthy community. The site proximity to Saratoga Creek and Lawrence
Expressway offers unique challenges for access and jurisdictional permissions. The park
features proposed will need to balance site constraints and the community’s aspirations.
In August 2021, the City released a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to solicit proposals
from qualified professional consultants to develop the Lawrence-Mitty site. In October
2021, MIG, Inc. (MIG) was selected as the consultant for this project and a contract was
executed in December 2021. The City worked with MIG to develop a process for
implementation of the project: the project has been divided into five phases.
The phases include:
1) Existing Site Condition and Technical Analysis
2) Community Vision
3) Conceptual Design Alternatives
4) Draft and Final Master Plan
5) California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Clearance
To date, the project team has completed Phase 1 of the project and is currently engaged
in Phase 2.
Phase 1 - Existing Site Condition and Technical Analysis
This phase encompasses all technical field studies needed to gain a better understanding
of the site conditions. Studies conducted to date include:
• A Transportation Study
• An environmental site assessment
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• A noise analysis
• A biological resources survey
• A tree survey and condition assessment
The contractor, MIG, worked with multiple subconsultants to develop reports for each
element. Additionally, MIG has compiled key findings from these studies into a single
document, which is part of this report as Attachment A.
Key considerations discussed in the Environmental Summary Report (ESR) include site-
specific opportunities and constraints associated with the following elements:
• Site access
• Noise reduction
• Easements and utilities
• Soil assessment and Construction and Demolition Waste
• Stormwater management
• Biological resources
• Tree inventory and landscape habitat
The contractor provides recommendations and design considerations for each of the
elements listed.
The ESR also outlines how the project aligns with the key City guiding policy
documents. These guiding documents include the 2020 Parks and Recreation System
Master Plan, 2016 Bicycle Transportation Plan, 2018 Pedestrian Transportation Plan,
2015 Climate Action Plan, and the 2015-2040 Community Vision Cupertino General
Plan. The ESR and associated technical studies will be incorporated into the proposed
designs for the park. The ESR will be available to the public via the Engage Cupertino
webpage at engagecupertino.org/lawrencemitty in mid-June.
Phase 2 - Community Vision
This phase encompasses initial elements related to public outreach, including work with
various City Commissions and City Council to develop a plan that reflects the
community’s needs and priorities. An ‘Engage Cupertino’ website for the project is
available online at engagecupertino.org/lawrencemitty and provides the public with
information about the project as well as opportunities for public input. Postcards
notifying the community of the project, the online survey, calendar of events, and
‘Engage Cupertino’ webpage were distributed citywide in the week of April 4.
During Phase 2, opportunities for public input were provided in several formats,
including:
• Providing comment on the Engage Cupertino website for the project
• Online survey (Open March 30 to May 23) (563 responses)
• Two community-based pop-up events
o April 16 at the Big Bunny 5K (approximately 30 participants)
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o May 7 at Creekside Park during youth soccer league (approximately 30
participants)
• One virtual community meeting (April 27) (approximately 15 participants)
• Lawrence-Mitty site tour (April 30) (approximately 60 participants)
• One joint commission meeting (June 13)
• One City Council meeting (July 19)
Many suggestions about design elements and concerns regarding site conditions have
been expressed during the public outreach events for the project. The project team will
work toward a design that reflects the common themes amongst these ideas and
concerns. Attachment B provides findings collected from the various public outreach
forums.
Key findings from the Community Outreach Summary Report include:
• A strong desire for wildlife, nature, and education features
• Prioritizing walking and biking pathways
• Availability of shade
• Nature play features
• Natural habitat enhancement
• Reduction of onsite noise levels
• Considerations for site safety
• Access to restrooms
Following the compilation of the initial public outreach efforts, the City and MIG’s team
will present to this project-specific joint commission meeting, comprised of
representatives from the Parks and Recreation Commission, Bicycle Pedestrian
Commission, and Planning Commission. Additional joint commission meetings will
take place at key decision points in the project to solicit input from the commissions and
the community.
City Council will be updated regularly with presentations on project status at key points
in the design process, to facilitate City Council’s input. The first presentation to the City
Council, anticipated for the July 19 meeting, will include the public outreach and
environmental/site condition findings listed above, and recommendations from the joint
commission. That presentation will also signal the transition from Phase 2 to Phase 3 of
the project.
After gathering initial community input, the project team will move into the design
phases: Phases 3 - Conceptual Design Alternatives and Phase 4 - Draft and Final Master
Plan. In Phase 3, three conceptual design alternatives will be developed based on
feedback from the community, the ESR findings, and known site constraints. The project
team will present these alternatives to the public, Commissions, and City Council for
feedback and input on a preferred alternative and/or a hybrid of the presented options.
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The preferred alternative will be further developed into a single conceptual design in
Phase 4.
During Phases 3 and 4 there will be additional opportunities for public input via the
forums employed in Phase 2: ‘Engage Cupertino’ website, ‘pop-up’ events, virtual
community meetings, joint commission meetings, and City Council meetings, including
final adoption of the preferred alternative.
Once a preferred design alternative is developed and adopted, the project team will
move into Phase 5 - California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Clearance. The
CEQA clearance is required prior to implementation of the improvements. This phase
will include submission of CEQA-related paperwork to regulatory bodies and may
include public hearings. The final outcome of Phase 5 is to obtain CEQA permissions for
implementation of the preferred conceptual design. Currently, the projected timeframe
for CEQA clearance is six months after final acceptance of the preferred design
alternative by City Council. Once CEQA clearance is obtained, the City is free to pursue
the development of advanced design and documentation work for the park.
Sustainability Impact
This project aligns with multiple objectives outlined in Chapter 6, Environmental
Resources and Sustainability, of the City’s General Plan, Community Vision 2015-2040.
In particular, development of the Lawrence-Mitty site will emphasize elements of Goal
ES-1 to ensure a sustainable future, Goal ES-5 which is to protect the City’s urban and
rural ecosystems, and Goal ES-7 to ensure the protection and efficient use of all water
resources.
Fiscal Impact
Receiving the ESR and Public Outreach reports does not incur fiscal impact. Lawrence –
Mitty Park was funded in Fiscal Year 2015. The current available balance for the project
is $5,984,897 after expenditures for the acquisition and annexation of the property, as
well as design services.
_____________________________________
Prepared by: Lisa Cameli, Project Manager
Reviewed by: Susan Michael, CIP Program Manager
Reviewed by: Joanne Magrini, Parks & Recreation Director
Approved for Submission by: Matt Morley, Public Works Director
Attachments:
A – Draft Environmental Summary Report
B – Draft Community Outreach Summary Report
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Lawrence‐Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan – Environmental Summary Report | 1
LAWRENCE-MITTY
PARK AND TRAIL MASTER PLAN
ENVIRONMENTAL SUMMARY REPORT
June 7, 2022
INTRODUCTION
In January 2022, the City of Cupertino and a consultant team lead by MIG, kicked off the Lawrence‐Mitty Park
and Trail Master Plan project, with the goal of transforming this recently acquired vacant site and existing trail
corridor into a meaningful recreation resource for the Cupertino community. The first phase of the Master Plan
process is to review background information, understand the site’s existing conditions, and perform additional
site studies to fully understand the site—both its opportunities and constraints.
The purpose of this report is to summarize this technical analysis and provide development recommendations
to guide site design options towards an implementable plan. The findings in this report, along with input from
the community on priorities, will drive development of three initial design alternatives for the site and, after
more community feedback, a final, preferred design concept for the park and trail.
REPORT ORGANIZATION
The report is organized with a section for each topic below, each of which includes a summary of findings
and development recommendations to guide the site design. Large exhibits and full versions of lengthier
studies are located in the Appendix.
Technical Analysis
Site Overview
Citywide Goals and Regulations
Access and Circulation
Noise Reduction
Easements and Utilities
Soils
Stormwater and Hydrology
Biological Resources
Trees & Landscape
Opportunities and Constraints
Maps
Next steps
Appendix
A. Transportation Memo, Hexagon
Transportation Consultants, February 2022
B. Noise Conditions Report, MIG, April 2022
C. Civil Site Exhibit, BKF, April 2022
D. Adjacent Utilities, BKF, April 2022
E. Title Report, June 2018
F. Soils Report: Phase I Environmental Site
Assessment Update and Phase II Soil
Quality Evaluation, Cornerstone Earth
Group, February 2022
G. Biological Constraints Analysis, MIG,
April 2022
H. Arborist Report, SBCA Tree Consulting,
February 2022
Attachment ADRAFT
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Lawrence‐Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan ‐ Environmental Summary Report | 2
TECHNICAL ANALYSIS
SITE OVERVIEW
The 7.83‐acre Lawrence‐Mitty project site is situated on the east side of Cupertino, between Saratoga
Creek and the Lawrence Expressway. The City of Cupertino acquired it with the intent to develop a new
park and extend the existing Saratoga Creek Trail.
Figure 1: Site Context
The site is roughly a half mile in length and is located in the Rancho Rinconada neighborhood. The
middle of the site lies just across the pedestrian bridge from Sterling Barnhart Park, a small and well‐used
neighborhood play area. To the south, reachable by the existing trail, is the Rancho Rinconada pool. The
site is within a mile from Cupertino High school, Hyde Middle School, and Sedgwick Elementary School.
Archbishop Mitty High School (private) is directly across the Expressway from the site.
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Lawrence‐Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan ‐ Environmental Summary Report | 3
Figure 2: Existing Site Conditions
The south section of the site includes an
existing section of the Saratoga Creek
Trail, which extends north past the
pedestrian bridge from Sterling
Barnhart Park and to a crosswalk at
Mitty Way. This portion has a paved
multi‐use trail, site furnishings, signage
and irrigation. Trail improvements
along the south section may be included
in the Master Plan, depending on the
community’s priorities. There are also
several small opportunity areas where
the land widens out between the trail
and creek. At the south end of the
property is an existing sound wall that
continues beyond the end of the parcel.
Figure 3: South end of the site with existing sound wall
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Lawrence‐Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan ‐ Environmental Summary Report | 4
The north section of the site, beyond the
Mitty Way intersection, is currently
fenced and locked, and offers a large flat
space with the most recreation potential
of the parcels. This area was last used as
a construction storage and staging area
by the County and holds several large
soil piles and soil berms along the top of
the creek bank, both made up of a
combination of soil and construction
debris. The former use has left behind
an impervious surface, which will need
to be addressed for successful drainage
and planting.
Recently purchased from the County,
the site is near the end of the process of
annexation from the City of San Jose
into Cupertino. Its location at the edge
of Cupertino and San Jose will require
coordination with San Jose and Santa
Clara County on several site factors,
including traffic, access, and utility
connections.
The adjacent Lawrence Expressway
creates challenges with noise,
particulates, access, and parking. In
addition, I‐280, at the north end of the
site, contributes additional background
noise and makes bicycle and pedestrian
connections to the north challenging.
Saratoga Creek can provide the
community with unique passive recreation opportunities and a greater connection to nature.
Development work adjacent to the
Creek will need to consider many
factors, including environmental agency
regulations, grading and stormwater management for water quality, habitat, and existing riparian trees.
Further details on these project opportunities and constraints are provided in the specific sections that
follow. The City’s and design team’s shared goal is to create a master plan that addresses each challenge
and is shaped by the site’s possibilities and the community’s vision. The Lawrence‐Mitty site has the
potential to provide new recreation uses for the neighborhood, improve ecological functions along the
creek corridor, and serve as an important trail connector for the city and region.
Figure 5: Saratoga Creek
Figure 4: North site with recreation potential
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Lawrence‐Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan ‐ Environmental Summary Report | 5
CITYWIDE GOALS AND REGULATIONS
The City of Cupertino has developed multiple Citywide parks and planning documents to guide
development, including the Parks and Recreation System Master Plan, Bicycle Transportation Plan,
Pedestrian Transportation Plan, Climate Action Plan and General Plan. The Lawrence‐Mitty Park and Trail
Master Plan will be designed to align with the overall goals of each of these plans, along with the relevant
points noted below.
CUPERTINO PARKS AND RECREATION SYSTEM MASTER PLAN
The 2020 Cupertino Parks and Recreation System Master Plan (PRSMP) creates a cohesive strategy to guide
future development, renovation, and management of City parks, recreation facilities, and trails. The PRSMP
was developed after an extensive public engagement process that helped assess community needs and
goals while identifying opportunities to meet those needs in the future. It notes that acquiring the
Lawrence‐Mitty site is an opportunity to increase access to park space on the east side of Cupertino and
prioritizes extending the Saratoga Creek Trail northward to Stevens Creek Boulevard. Maps within the
PRSMP show the Lawrence‐Mitty site as an opportunity for Natural Corridor Enhancements
(Creek/Riparian) and for Enhanced Pedestrian and Bike Connectivity.
These related Goals for the Saratoga Creek Trail are noted in the PRSMP:
Consider adding trail amenities
Enhancing and protecting the riparian corridor
Adding green infrastructure
Encourage connections to regional destinations
The PRSMP also includes a Goal and Community Priority Alignment Checklist, shown below, for use in
evaluating new projects to determine if they are consistent with the direction of the PRSMP. While it’s an
ambitious list, the design of the Lawrence‐Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan has the potential to meet many
of these expectations. As the design concepts progress, alternatives will be measured by this checklist.
Alignment with Master Plan Goals:
Protect nature, trees, and natural areas in parks and throughout the city to support wildlife,
ecological functions, and a stronger connection to Cupertino’s natural environment
Create a walkable, bikeable and accessible city by providing an interconnected network of multi‐
use trails, walkways and bikeways, close‐to‐home parks, and community destinations
Distribute parks, facilities, and recreation opportunities throughout the community for easy and
equitable access
Parks and recreation offerings to support broad and inclusive recreation interests
Support social gatherings, events, programs, and activities for people of all ages, abilities, cultures,
and interests
Create high quality recreation experiences, places and services that are welcoming, responsive,
comfortable, and reflective of Cupertino’s unique character
Provide, manage, and maintain high‐quality parks, recreation facilities, programs, and services for
Cupertino residents through sound management and stewardship, sustainable choices and wise
use of resources
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Lawrence‐Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan ‐ Environmental Summary Report | 6
Alignment with Community Priorities:
Protect nature or support nature experiences
Provide improved connectivity or trail opportunities
Support park and facility access (geographic, ADA, bike/pedestrian entry)
Increase the variety and diversity of recreation options
Support social gatherings, special events or celebrations
Provide unique or extraordinary play opportunities
Empower teens or youth
Reflect Cupertino’s unique character and identity
Improve user comfort, increase ease of use or create welcoming places and services
Support the Arts in our community
Promote partnerships
Support diverse cultural interests
CUPERTINO BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
In 2016, the City Council adopted this Bicycle Transportation Plan, a long‐range planning document
designed to encourage bicycling as a safe, practical, and healthy alternative to motor vehicles. It
addresses present and future needs of the bicycling community, lays the groundwork for grant funding
eligibility for bicycle projects, and is in close alignment with the goals set by the Cupertino Bicycle
Pedestrian Commission to significantly increase the attractiveness and safety of bicycling throughout the
City, with a particular focus on safe connectivity to schools.
Goals of the Cupertino Bicycle Transportation Plan that relate to the Lawrence‐Mitty project:
Safety: Improve bicyclist safety through the design and maintenance of roadway improvements.
Mobility: Increase and improve bicycle access to community destinations across the City of
Cupertino for all ages and abilities.
The Bicycle Transportation Plan recommends a series of Class I shared use paths, separated from vehicle
traffic. When joined together with low‐stress on‐street facilities, they can provide easy access around
Cupertino. This network would support both recreational riders and long‐range bicycle trips.
The Lawrence‐Mitty site is located at or linked with several proposed bicycle transportation projects
recommended in the Bicycle Transportation Plan:
North Connection: A Class I Bike Path beginning at the existing Saratoga Creek Trail (close to
Mitty Way) and continuing north along the site, transecting Highway 280 and connecting to
Stevens Creek Blvd. The plan notes that with further study and coordination, this could also link
up to a proposed Cupertino Loop Trail.
Mid‐Site Connection: A proposed Class III Bike Boulevard along Barnhart Ave. to provide an
east/west connection through the Rancho Rinconada neighborhood, leading to Sterling Barnhart
Park and the existing pedestrian bridge to the Saratoga Creek Trail.
South of the project site: Intersecting with the existing Saratoga Creek Trail, a proposed Class II
Buffered Bike Lane to provide two miles of east/west connection along Bollinger Road.
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Lawrence‐Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan ‐ Environmental Summary Report | 7
Figure 6: Bikeway Projects exhibit from the Cupertino Bicycle Transportation Plan
CUPERTINO PEDESTRIAN TRANSPORTATION PLAN
To encourage walking as a viable way to get around Cupertino, the City Council adopted the 2018
Pedestrian Transportation Plan. The Plan outlines physical improvements to the City that will provide
improved access for all ages and abilities. The plan’s vision includes three main goals, all of which apply
to the Lawrence‐Mitty project:
Safety: Improve pedestrian safety and reduce the number and severity of pedestrian related
collisions, injuries, and fatalities.
Access: Increase and improve pedestrian access to community destinations across the City of
Cupertino for people of all ages and abilities.
Connectivity: Continue to develop a connected pedestrian network that fosters an enjoyable
walking experience.
The Plan identifies a proposed extension of the Saratoga Creek Trail north to Stevens Creek Blvd.,
envisioned as a shared use path.
CITY OF CUPERTINO CLIMATE ACTION PLAN
The Cupertino Climate Action Plan (CAP) is a strategic planning document that identifies sources
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Lawrence‐Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan ‐ Environmental Summary Report | 8
of GHG emissions within the City’s boundaries, presents current and future emissions estimates,
identifies a GHG reduction target for future years, and presents strategic goals, measures, and
actions to reduce emissions from the energy, transportation and land use, water, solid waste, and
green infrastructure sectors. The Lawrence‐Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan has an opportunity to align
with the Climate Action Plan’s specific goals as noted below.
The City’s Climate Action Plan includes the following goals and measures related to transportation and
land use emissions:
Encourage Alternative Transportation – Support transit, carpooling, walking, and bicycling as
viable transportation modes to decrease the number of single occupancy vehicle trips within the
community.
Bicycle and Pedestrian Environment Enhancements – Continue to encourage multi‐modal
transportation, including walking and biking, through safety and comfort enhancements in the
bicycle and pedestrian environment.
The Plan also defines actions and implementation steps that the City could specifically take to reduce its
own GHG emissions, including:
Improve Facilities – Transform facilities into models of technology demonstration and
conservation.
Conserve Water Through Efficient Landscaping – Implement best management practices in
landscaping design and share City successes communitywide to lead by example in water
conservation action.
Reduce Solid Waste – Effectively manage materials to shift behavior, consumption, and life‐cycle
impacts.
Construction and Demolition Waste Diversion – Enhance construction and demolition waste
diversion rates for municipal projects.
CITY OF CUPERTINO GENERAL PLAN
Cupertino’s General Plan includes citywide goals, policies, and strategies. The following specific goals
and policies in the plan are applicable to the Lawrence‐Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan project:
Environmental Resources and Sustainability Element
Ensure a sustainable future for the City of Cupertino (Goal ES‐1).
Principles of Sustainability. Incorporate the principles of sustainability into Cupertino’s
planning, infrastructure, and development process in order to achieve improvement, reduce GHG
emissions, and meet the needs of the community without compromising the needs of future
generations (Policy ES‐1.1).
Promote conservation of energy resources (Goal ES‐2).
Conservation and Efficient Use of Energy Resources. Encourage the maximum feasible
conservation and efficient use of electrical power and natural gas resources for new and existing
residences, businesses, industrial, and public uses (Policy ES‐2.1).
Protect the city’s urban and rural ecosystems (Goal ES‐5)
Urban Ecosystem. Manage the public and private development to ensure the protection and
enhancement of its urban ecosystem (Policy ES‐5.1).
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Landscaping in and near Natural Vegetation. Preserve and enhance existing natural vegetation,
landscape features and open space when new development is proposed within existing natural
areas. When development is proposed near natural vegetation, encourage the landscaping to be
consistent with the palate of vegetation found in the natural vegetation (Policy ES‐5.3).
Recreation and Wildlife. Provide open space linkages within and between properties for both
recreation and wildlife activities, most specifically for the benefit of wildlife that is threatened,
endangered or designated as species of special concern. (Policy ES‐5.6).
Ensure protection and efficient use of all water resources (Goal ES‐7).
Natural Water Bodies and Drainage Systems. In public and private development, use Low
Impact Development (LID) principles to manage stormwater by mimicking natural hydrology,
minimizing grading and protecting or restoring natural drainage systems (Policy ES‐7.1).
Reduction of Impervious Surfaces. Minimize stormwater runoff and erosion impacts resulting
from development and use low impact development (LID) designs to treat stormwater or recharge
groundwater (Policy ES‐7.2).
Pollution and Flow Impacts. Ensure that surface and groundwater quality impacts are reduced
through development review and voluntary efforts (Policy ES‐7.3).
Natural Water Courses. Retain and restore creek beds, riparian corridors, watercourses, and
associated vegetation in their natural state to protect wildlife habitat and recreation potential and
assist in groundwater percolation. Encourage land acquisition or dedication of such areas (Policy
ES‐7.8).
Water Conservation and Demand Reduction Measures. Promote efficient use of water
throughout the City in order to meet State and regional water use reduction targets (Policy ES‐
7.11).
Infrastructure Element
Planning and Management. Create plans and operational policies to develop and maintain an
effective and efficient stormwater system (Policy INF‐4.1).
Land Use and Community Character Element
Enhance Connections. Look for opportunities to enhance publicly accessible pedestrian and
bicycle connections with new development or redevelopment (Policy LU‐5.3).
Connectivity. Create pedestrian and bicycle access between new developments and community
facilities. Review existing neighborhood circulation to improve safety and access for students to
walk and bike to schools, parks, and community facilities such as the library (Policy LU‐11.1).
Recreation, Parks, and Community Service Element
Parkland Acquisition. The City’s parkland acquisition strategy should be based upon three broad
objectives (Policy RPC‐2.1):
Distributing parks equitably throughout the City;
Connecting and providing access by providing paths, improved pedestrian and bike
connectivity and signage; and
Obtaining creek lands and restoring creeks and other natural open space areas, including
strips of land adjacent to creeks that may be utilized in creating buffer areas, trails, and trail
amenities.
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Connectivity and Access. Ensure that each home is within a half‐mile walk of a neighborhood
park or community park with neighborhood facilities; ensure that walking and biking routes are
reasonably free of physical barriers, including streets with heavy traffic; provide pedestrian links
between parks, wherever possible; and provide adequate directional and site signage to identify
public parks (Policy RPC‐2.4).
Range of Park Amenities. Provide parks and recreational facilities for a variety of recreational
activities (Policy RPC‐2.5).
Preserve and enhance access to parks that have significant natural resources (Goal RPC‐3).
Create an interconnected system of multi‐use trails and provide safe pedestrian and bicycle access
through the city and connections to local nodes and destinations (Goal RPC‐5).
Open Space and Trail Linkages. Dedicate or acquire open space land along creeks and utilities
through regional cooperation, grants, and private development review (Policy RPC‐5.1).
Pedestrian and Bicycle Paths. Develop a citywide network of pedestrian and bicycle pathways to
connect employment centers, shopping areas and neighborhoods to service including parks,
schools, libraries, and neighborhood centers (Policy RPC‐5.2).
Art and Culture. Utilize parks as locations of art and culture and to educate the community about
the City’s history, and explore the potential to use art in facilities and utilities when located in
parks (Policy RPC‐6.3).
Sustainable Design. Ensure that City facilities are sustainably designed to minimize impacts on
the environment (Policy RPC‐7.1).
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ACCESS AND CIRCULATION
The existing Saratoga Creek Trail is a multi‐use path that runs alongside the west side of Lawrence
Expressway and extends from English Drive in the south to Mitty Way in the north. Because the adjacent
Lawrence Expressway prohibits additional vehicle access and parking, the primary opportunities for
increased access and circulation at the Lawrence‐Mitty site are for bicyclists and pedestrians. The
selection of recreation features will need to take this limitation into consideration.
The following summary draws on an initial assessment by Hexagon Transportation Consultants, Inc. of
Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT), Multimodal Access, and Pedestrian safety at Lawrence Mitty Park and Trail in
Cupertino, California, completed in February 2022. See Appendix A: Transportation Memo for the full
memo.
SUMMARY
Bicycle and Pedestrian Connections:
The existing pedestrian and bicycle facilities are located at the Mitty Way intersection and to the
south, including:
Lawrence Expressway/Bollinger Rd. Intersection: a signalized intersection with pedestrian
crossing
Sterling Blvd./Barnhart Ave. Intersection: bicycle/pedestrian access from Sterling Barnhart
Park, across an existing bicycle/pedestrian bridge, and joining the existing Saratoga Creek
Trail
Lawrence Expressway and Mitty Way Intersection: a signalized intersection with pedestrian
crossing
North of the site, at Calvert Drive and I‐280: There is a signalized intersection but no option for
pedestrians to cross the Lawrence Expressway. Pedestrian facilities are limited to a crosswalk on
the east side of the expressway, leading to a sidewalk and Doyle Road, which provides an indirect
connection via this local neighborhood street to Mitty Way and the Saratoga Creek Trail.
Lawrence Expressway: Bicycles are currently allowed to ride on the side of the expressway in the
project vicinity. However, only the bravest of bicyclists would find this acceptable due to the high‐
speed traffic and noise.
Figure 7: Lawrence Expressway/Mitty Way intersection
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Figure 8: Section from Santa Clara Valley Bikeways Map
Public Vehicular Access and Parking:
There is no on‐site public parking and no direct vehicular access to the project site for the public. To
access the site by vehicle, visitors need to park on the adjacent residential streets near Sterling Barnhart
Park, walk through the park and cross the pedestrian bridge to the multi‐use path. Alternatively, park
and trail visitors may also park in the residential neighborhood east of Lawrence Expressway and use the
crosswalk on the south leg of the Lawrence/Mitty intersection. A third option is to park near Bollinger
Road and travel via the existing portion of the Saratoga Creek Trail.
Figure 9: Pedestrian bridge from Sterling Barnhart Park connecting to the Saratoga Creek Trail
LAWRENCE-
MITTY SITE
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Maintenance & Emergency Access:
The project site has an existing driveway along Lawrence Expressway that is used by City maintenance
vehicles. The existing driveway is located approximately 620 feet south of the Lawrence Expressway and
Southbound I‐280 On‐Ramp/Calvert Drive intersection. The existing driveway provides sufficient storage
for two vehicles to park side‐by‐side, without encroaching on the adjacent southbound shoulder area of
Lawrence Expressway. An additional maintenance turnout exists approximately 700 feet south of the
Mitty Way intersection and allows access to the existing portion of the Saratoga Creek Trail.
Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT):
The potential new daily vehicle trips that may be generated by the proposed project were estimated by
applying trip rates for public parks published in the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Trip
Generation Manual, 11th Edition (0.78 daily vehicle trips per acre) to the size of the project site (7.83
acres). Findings:
Based on the ITE trip rate, the proposed project is expected to generate fewer than 10 daily vehicle
trips each day. This is considered a conservative (high) estimate of project‐generated traffic
because a portion of the site has limited improvement potential due to Saratoga Creek and other
areas will provide for open space with more passive recreational uses rather than more intense,
active park uses like sports fields.
Project vehicle trips are expected to be quite low because there is no direct public vehicle access to
the project site.
According to the Cupertino VMT policy, the project would qualify as a small project that may be
screened out of a detailed VMT analysis and assumed to have a less than significant impact on
VMT.
In addition—the Lawrence‐Mitty site is located within the east side of Cupertino, which is
underserved in terms of park space and recreational opportunities for residents. Thus, it is likely
that many residents in this area of Cupertino area travel to parks, trails, and open spaces outside
the area. For this reason, the project is expected to result in a reduction in the total (boundary)
VMT.
DEVELOPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Bicycle and Pedestrian Connections
Trail Extension: The new park open space area should be connected to the existing Saratoga Creek Trail,
which currently ends near the Mitty Way intersection.
Lawrence Expressway/Mitty Way Intersection: The signalized crosswalk at the intersection of Lawrence
Expressway and Mitty Way is adequate and there are no required changes to the existing pedestrian
facilities at this intersection. However, recent pedestrian experiences showed a slow response time for
the signal change. With new park uses planned, the timing should be investigated to see if pedestrian
needs can better be met.
Sterling Blvd./Barnhart Ave. Intersection: Crosswalk visibility enhancements should be considered at
the uncontrolled crosswalk at the intersection of Sterling Boulevard and Barnhart Avenue per the
FHWA’s Guide for Improving Pedestrian Safety at Uncontrolled Crossing Locations. Enhancements to
improve crosswalk visibility may include high visibility crosswalk striping and parking restrictions on
the crosswalk approaches so there is adequate sight distance for motorists on the approaches to the
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crossings and ample sight distance for pedestrians attempting to cross. Alternatively, a bulb‐out could be
constructed to allow the pedestrian to see past the parked vehicle along the street.
Barnhart Avenue: Coordinate with the Bicycle Pedestrian Commission and City to determine if this
proposed Class III Bike Boulevard can be implemented in the short term to connect bicyclists more safely
to both the existing Sterling Barnhart Park and the proposed Lawrence‐Mitty Park.
North Extents of the Trail: To meet Citywide goals (in the PRSMP, Bicycle Plan, Climate Action Plan), it
is desirable to provide bicycle and pedestrian connections past the Lawrence‐Mitty park site to connect
with existing bike lanes at Stevens Creek Blvd. Stevens Creek Blvd’s existing bike lanes are currently
Class II, and a Class IV Separated Bikeway is proposed for much of it in the future. However, several
constraints make this connection difficult – narrow conditions, multiple fast‐moving traffic lanes,
elevated roadways, and multiple jurisdictions (City of Cupertino, City of San Jose, Santa Clara County,
Caltrans, VTA, and environmental agencies overseeing the creek). Long‐term solutions should continue
to be explored to make this important connection a reality. Several potential scenarios to consider:
The northern large park site could serve as the northern most point of the Saratoga Creek Trail.
Without a connection across the expressway and onwards to Stevens Creek Blvd., it is not
recommended to create a dead‐end trail past the large project site. At a minimum, the park
should be designed to allow for this future connection by leaving a clear space at the north end for
it and avoiding new obstructions.
Since bicycles are permitted on Lawrence Expressway, the project could consider providing one‐
way access into the site for only southbound Lawrence Expressway bikes, with the access point
near the north end of the project site. The on‐site design, signage, and pavement markings of this
inbound bicycle access point would need to discourage and/or prevent wrong way bike use and
pedestrian use. However, without the ability to also safely travel northward out of the site, and
knowing human nature, this does not seem advisable. It also would not appeal to the average
bicyclist.
Multimodal improvements such as adding a Class
II bike lane designation on southbound Lawrence
Expressway and/or adding a crosswalk on the
south leg of the Lawrence/Calvert/I‐280
southbound on‐ramp intersection that would
connect to a Class I mixed‐use trail on the east side
of Lawrence Expressway.
Multimodal improvements that could create a loop
heading northwest along Calvert Drive to Stevens
Creek Blvd. or neighborhood streets. This would
avoid the I‐280 intersection and create a quicker
trip towards downtown amenities.
Public Vehicle Access and Parking
Since the expressway prohibits additional access points
and parking the site’s chosen recreation features should
limit large quantities of users at once (e.g. no sports fields,
large group picnic areas, etc.). Some recreation features
could be bicycle‐focused to specifically attract park users
arriving by bike. Figure 11: Street view of the existing intersection
Figure 10: Overview of the existing north end
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Maintenance & Emergency Access
Location: The project site should continue to provide a city maintenance driveway adjacent to Lawrence
Expressway. The driveway should be located at least 500 feet south of the Lawrence Expressway and
Southbound I‐280 On‐Ramp/Calvert Drive intersection, which would be a sufficient distance to satisfy the
California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Highway Design Manual (HDM) stopping sight
distance for a design speed of 55 miles per hour (mph). Note that Lawrence Expressway currently has a
posted speed of 50 mph.
Configuration: The project driveway should provide sufficient space for a pick‐up truck with a small
trailer (i.e., a trailer that holds maintenance equipment such as a lawnmower) to park outside the gate
without encroaching on the Lawrence Expressway roadway and should be designed per the County’s
standards for driveways on County expressways. Furthermore, the site plan should allow vehicles to
safely occupy the turnout or turn around within the project site to avoid the need for vehicles to back out
onto Lawrence Expressway. The configuration should be reviewed by the fire department. In Cupertino,
firefighting services are provided by the Santa Clara County Fire Department (SCCFD).
Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT)
Due to the assessment of a less than significant impact on VMT, the project qualifies as a small project
that may be screened out of a detailed VMT analysis.
Trail Design
Align with the Cupertino Bicycle Transportation Plan goal to include a Class I Bike Path beginning at
the existing Saratoga Creek trail and continuing north along the site, transecting Highway 280 and
connecting to Stevens Creek Blvd.
Develop the new trail in accordance with bicycle design guidelines from the Cupertino Bicycle
Transportation Plan, which includes information on regional and city connections, standards,
wayfinding, and bike parking.
Develop the new trail section in accordance with the goals for the corridor set forth in the Saratoga
Creek Master Plan (1999):
To provide access to the creek at appropriate points, consider alternative alignments to ensure
continuity of the trail and pursue opportunities with landowners as adjacent land is developed.
To provide staging areas and use existing park facilities for such staging areas whenever possible.
To maximize linkages to other trial systems and trail segments.
To provide a safe and secure trail that’s easy to maintain.
To respect the property rights of adjacent landowners.
To provide alternative transportation routes.
To preserve and restore the natural creek environment wherever possible.
To identify and preserve historical and cultural resources found along the creek.
To encourage educational uses of the creek corridor.
Develop the new trail section in accordance with the relevant design guidelines from the Saratoga Creek
Master Plan (1999). These include:
A 17‐foot‐wide trail corridor where space allows with a minimum 10‐foot setback from the
riparian edge and 25‐foot setback from all adjacent property lines. Refer to the typical proposed
section in Figure 12.
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5‐foot widths for pedestrian‐only soft surface trails.
2% cross slope that drains away from the creek on any trails or impervious surfacing.
Trail pavement capable of handling H20 loading.
Trail designs are to comply with the most current version of the Caltrans Highway Design
Manual, the Americans with Disability Act Accessibility Guidelines, the Uniform Building Code,
California’s Title 24, and local and state codes governing outdoor paths of travel.
The removal of mounds of debris and soil stored along the edge of the creek (where possible) to
open views into the creek from the trail.
Planting for habitat enhancement
Security lighting of the trail is discouraged due to the environmental impact to wildlife.
Benches sited along the trail at ½ mile intervals with a two‐foot setback from the trail.
Figure 12: Saratoga Creek Master Plan figure showing the proposed trail section for the Lawrence‐Mitty area
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NOISE REDUCTION
The Lawrence Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan area is located adjacent to Lawrence Expressway, a major
arterial road with high traffic volumes that generate high levels of noise. At the far north and far south
ends of the site, existing sound walls are in place, but most of the project site is open to the expressway to
the east. The Master Plan area is also within approximately 1,000 feet of Interstate 280 (I‐280), another
source of high traffic noise levels. The potential noise levels generated by these roadways requires careful
consideration in the Master Plan development process.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS
Ambient Noise Monitoring Survey
In February 2022, MIG conducted a survey to document ambient noise levels in the Master Plan area. For
the full report, see Appendix B: Noise Conditions Report. The results of the ambient noise monitoring
survey indicating the existing, hourly sound levels in decibels (dBA) in the Master Plan area are:
Noise levels of approximately 55 dBA to 72 dBA, with the highest noise levels occurring adjacent
to Lawrence Expressway and the lowest noise levels occurring along Saratoga Creek (more than
280 feet from center of Lawrence Expressway) and behind existing noise barriers (sound walls).
For the highest levels, these are equivalent to noise commonly associated with gasoline‐powered
lawn mowers (at a distance of 50 feet) and small household vacuums (at a distance of 10 feet).
Levels are consistent with noise levels for other major arterial roadways in Cupertino, San Jose,
and other jurisdictions on the Peninsula.
Levels are likely to increase by 1 to 3 dBA with time due to projected increases in traffic.
What is an Appropriate Noise Level for the Project?
The City’s General Plan identifies 70 dBA to 75 dBA as a noise level range that is potentially incompatible
with playgrounds and neighborhood parks, while 75 dBA to 80 dBA is the range that is potentially
incompatible with golf courses, riding stables, water recreation, and cemeteries.
How Effective are Noise Barriers?
The existing 8‐foot‐tall concrete noise barriers on the west side of Lawrence Expressway provide
approximately 8 dBA to 12 dBA of attenuation near the wall (within 10 to 30 feet of the wall). The existing
barriers achieve this noise reduction by:
Reflecting some of the sound energy coming from Lawrence Expressway back to the road;
Blocking the direct transmission of sound into the Master Plan area; and
Increasing the distance a sound wave travels to pass over the barrier.
Walls, berms, fences, and other structures generally reduce noise levels by 3 to 12 dBA, depending on
their length, height, material composition, elevation and orientation relative to the noise source, and other
factors. Driveways, gates, and other access or entry ways reduce the effectiveness of such structures.
While vegetation visually screens a noise source, it is generally not dense enough to reflect, absorb, or
otherwise meaningfully reduce noise levels.
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Potential Noise Barrier Alternatives
Several options for physical barriers have been discussed for the site, as listed below. Cost and
effectiveness, given the precise layout, including access points, will be evaluated in the design
alternatives.
A typical concrete masonry unit (CMU) sound wall, similar to the existing walls along the
expressway.
A combination of a soil berm and low wall, which will reduce some noise and also take up more
space.
Commercial products that provide transparency and noise control.
DEVELOPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Use the results of the ambient noise monitoring to inform design of the three site alternatives,
including:
Several options using physical barriers (sound walls or soil berms) and/or noise masking
features
Locating recreation features based on their need for lower noise levels. For example,
experiences that are shorter in duration or naturally louder may be located closer in areas
with higher noise levels. Experiences that are a longer in duration or more nature‐oriented
may be located in the areas with the lowest noise levels.
Strategically locating maintenance access points and configurations, which will unavoidably
allow more noise to reach the site at those points.
Minimize large hardscape surfaces that reflect and increase noise. Instead, use soft surfacing
as much as possible (which also meets other project goals).
Provide both costs and diagrams modeling noise contours for the three site plan alternatives for
the City and community to evaluate noise abatement and provide input on priorities. Criteria for
evaluation may include noise benefit, programming, cost, access and safety.
Make it clear during community engagement that there is potential to reduce noise but not
eliminate it. Educate participants about common misconceptions about noise abatement (for
example, vegetation not being an effective noise solution).
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EASEMENTS AND UTILITIES
The project team’s civil engineer has reviewed existing documentation, regulations, and permit
requirements for the project site to design and construct a new park and trail connection. Easement
information has been accounted for in evaluating development options and site improvement
recommendations for the proposed Lawrence Mitty Park (See Appendix C, Civil Site Exhibit). The site
zoning is stated as PR‐Parks and Recreation, and the land use is Parks and Open Space.
A review of the existing ALTA/NSPS Land Survey completed by Giuliani & Kull and verification of site
improvement and topo accuracy was done for the project site. The ALTA survey provided site
topographic information, including trees, site features, property lines and mapped easements. Record
mapping data was reviewed for properties and landowners adjacent to the property.
When inspecting the site, the noted tree quantities and locations shown on the ALTA Land Survey
provided were found to be deficient and the tree canopies did not match the field conditions. The
project’s arborist tagged and assessed all missing trees on the site and adjacent creek slope and a field
survey was performed to locate all trees.
SUMMARY
Easements
All easements located on the property are for existing utilities that provide access to their respective
utility owners. No easements found would act as a major barrier for development. Parties having
jurisdictional authority on and around the site are the City of San Jose, City of Cupertino, Santa Clara
Valley Water District (SCVWD), and Santa Clara County. The City of Cupertino is annexing the park
land from San Jose to Cupertino and will provide any easement language or requirements pertaining to
the site. Easements on this site are:
Storm Sewer Easement: A 15’ storm sewer pipe easement for the benefit of the City of San Jose for
a 27” pipe is located on parcel 2 of the property for the conveyance of storm drainage from
Lawrence Expressway and San Jose into Saratoga Creek.
Electrical/Communication Easements: There were two electrical/communication easements for
PG&E that were recorded on the project site, but their location cannot be determined from record
information. These easements may have been recorded in regard to the vaults noted below.
Trail Easement: Sterling Barnhart Park contains an 18’ trail easement to the bridge that spans
Saratoga Creek, which connects the project site to this park.
Water Line Easement: A water line easement is also shown through Sterling Barnhart park and to
Saratoga Creek.
Refer to Appendix C: Civil Site Exhibit for locations and Appendix E: Title Report for additional
background on Easements.
Existing Utilities
Onsite existing utilities must be accounted for in the proposed site concepts, including:
Large Storm Drainline: An existing 27” storm drainage pipe passes through the site and
discharges directly to Saratoga Creek by culvert (Appendix D, Page 1 ‐ San Jose Storm Drainage
Map). This storm drainage pipe and culvert acts as an outfall for Lawrence Expressway and the
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City of San Jose. There is an existing
onsite catch basin that collects the majority
of the storm water and connects to this 27”
storm drainpipe.
Onsite Catch Basin: Another onsite catch
basin collects the rest of the onsite storm
water discharges directly to Saratoga
Creek.
Water: A 12.75” water pipe is located on
the property near the Saratoga Creek Trail
and Mitty Way. (See Appendix D, Page 2 ‐
San Jose Water Company Map). This pipe
is owned by San Jose Water Company (SJWC) and a 5’ water easement is recorded on Parcel one
and Parcel two of the property for access and maintenance. This line connects to other water lines
through Sterling Barnhart Park and the Lawrence Expressway and Mitty Way intersection.
Sanitary Sewer (San Jose): The closest sanitary sewer line would be at the Lawrence Expressway
and Mitty Way intersection. This is a City of San Jose owned 6” sanitary sewer line and manhole
(See Appendix D, Page 3 ‐ San Jose Sanitary Sewer Map).
Sanitary Sewer (Cupertino): The closest Cupertino Sanitation District sewer line and manhole
would be the 8” main in Sterling Blvd (See Appendix D, Page 4 ‐ Cupertino Sanitary Sewer Map).
PG&E Electrical Vaults: Along the eastern edge of the property there are two locations that PG&E
electrical vaults and lines encroach into the property (See Appendix C: Civil Site Exhibit).
Signal Vaults: Two signal vaults encroach onto the property on the eastern side of the property
outside the fencing and sound wall. These vaults do not have easements associated with them and
provide service to Lawrence Expressway.
DEVELOPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Site improvements will conform to citywide park goals and regulations. Specific utility design
recommendations are:
Storm Drainage: It is recommended that any proposed onsite storm drainage conveyance be done
through the existing catch basin that does not connect to the City of San Jose’s 27” pipe and
culvert. Access to maintain that storm drain line would be expensive and potentially cause
conflicts with the City of San Jose’s interests in it. If possible, the catch basin connected to the 27”
pipe should not be affected and accounted for in the grading design for the project.
Water: All required water services for the project site should connect to the existing SJWC 12.75”
water line that is located on the property near the Saratoga Creek Trail and Mitty Way. SJWC will
have to be notified of the proposed services to confirm the existing line has capacity for the
project’s demand. If a restroom is included at the park, then a water service line would be
required for plumbing fixtures. A fire hydrant will likely be required to provide water coverage as
there are no existing fire hydrants nearby to the open space areas of the park.
Sanitary Sewer: If a restroom is incorporated into the design, a potential sewer connection to the
Cupertino Sanitation District would have to go through Sterling‐Barnhart Park. The 8” main
would be large enough for sewer demand from a public park restroom but would have to pass
over Saratoga Creek and would be unlikely to be approved. The connection length, SCVWD
permitting for crossing Saratoga Creek, and overall cost makes this option not feasible. A
Figure 13: Existing 27ʺdiameter storm drainpipe
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connection to the City of San Jose 6” sanitary sewer line in the Lawrence Expressway and Mitty
Way intersection is recommended as it would be closer to the site and would not need to cross
Saratoga Creek. The lateral connection would need to be coordinated with the City of San Jose and
an encroachment permit would be required with the City of San Jose for this connection.
Electrical: The PG&E and signal vaults that are located on the eastern property line, outside the
existing fencing, should be kept in their locations to reduce utility relocation costs. Informational
requests and quitclaims may be issued to PG&E and the City of San Jose to provide more
information on these easements and utilities.
Related Permits
The following permits may be required, depending on the specific site plan developed. Also see the
Biological Resources section of this report for detailed information about review bodies and permitting
related to Saratoga Creek.
City of Cupertino:
The City of Cupertino requires multiple permits for construction within the City’s limits.
Development Permit for demolition and construction of the park.
Demolition Permit for off haul of concrete debris on the existing site.
Tree Removal Permit is needed to remove trees that are not in the riparian habitat.
Streamside Permit will be required for any Cupertino project within 100’ of a stream/river.
Encroachment Permit could be required if the project connects to utilities in Sterling Road.
City of San Jose:
An Encroachment Permit would be required for any work connecting to utilities in Lawrence
Expressway.
County of Santa Clara:
An Encroachment Permit is necessary for work in Lawrence Expressway.
SCVWD:
An Encroachment Permit will be needed for activities that may impact SCVWD facilities, riparian
setbacks, or SCWVD easements and land.
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SOIL INVESTIGATION
A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) Update and Phase II Soil Quality Evaluation was prepared
by Cornerstone Earth Group, Inc. (Cornerstone) for the site of the proposed Lawrence Mitty Park and Trail
project. The report updated the Phase I ESA and Preliminary Soil Quality Evaluation dated April 18, 2016,
that was previously prepared for the site by Cornerstone, and was intended to evaluate Recognized
Environmental Conditions at the site. The work performed by Cornerstone included a review of the prior
Phase I ESA and subsequent studies, a site reconnaissance, a regulatory agency database review, interviews
with persons knowledgeable of the site history and conditions, and preparation of the update summarizing
their findings and recommendations. In addition, Cornerstone collected and analyzed additional soil
samples to evaluate the extent of lead impacted soil at the site and discuss any appropriate management
protocols For the full evaluation, see Appendix F: Soils Report.
Background
In the 2016 Phase I ESA and Preliminary Soil Quality Evaluation, Construction and Demolition Waste
(CDW), consisting mainly of asphalt and concrete mixed with soil, was observed to have been placed on‐
site along the top of the eastern bank of Saratoga Creek, and extending along most of the Site’s western
boundary. The debris appeared likely to have been generated by the County during road repair or
construction activities. In general, the piled material appeared to be approximately five to ten feet higher
than the original ground surface elevation. The stockpiled debris/soil contained fine to coarse asphalt and
concrete grindings, along with larger pieces of asphalt and concrete. Some of the concrete debris was
observed to have fallen from the top of the creek bank to the creek bed.
Cornerstone performed a limited soil quality evaluation at the site. Elevated lead concentrations were
detected in several soil samples collected at the base of the chain‐link fence line that separates the site from
Lawrence Expressway (several feet from the edge of the Expressway pavement). Lead concentrations in
three of the soil samples exceeded the residential screening level threshold of 80 mg/kg for lead. The
elevated lead concentrations were likely to be the result of aerially deposited lead associated with auto
exhaust from the adjacent expressway. None of the samples exceeded the commercial screening threshold
of 320 mg/kg for lead. For park settings, there is not a requirement to adhere to residential thresholds, and
it has been included as a frame of reference.
The detected organochlorine pesticide concentrations in the soil samples did not exceed their respective
residential screening level thresholds, and no PCBs, VOCs, TPHg, or asbestos were detected. The detected
total metal concentrations appeared to be typical of natural background concentrations. The detected
soluble metal concentrations did not exceed their respective soluble threshold limit concentrations.
Phase I ESA Update and Phase II Soil Quality Evaluation (2022)
To observe current site conditions and note any significant changes since completion of the prior Phase I
ESA, Cornerstone visited the site on January 13, 2022. The site reconnaissance was conducted by walking
the site. In general, no significant changes to site were apparent since completion of the prior Phase I ESA
(2016). The northern portion of the site was observed to be undeveloped and used for storage of rock and
gravel, along with storage or disposal of CDW. Debris from homeless encampments was observed at
several locations.
Most of the northern portion of the site was asphalt paved, except for perimeter areas bordering Lawrence
Expressway to the east and Saratoga Creek to the west. The southern portion of the site was observed to
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have been developed with a section of the San Tomas Aquino/Saratoga Creek Trail, along with associated
landscaping and features such as park benches.
In January 2022, Cornerstone collected an additional 69 soil samples to evaluate the extent of lead impacted
soil at the site and to facilitate the development of appropriate management protocols, if necessary. Eight
of the samples were advanced in previously unsampled areas of the site to further evaluate soil quality for
potential lead impacts. At four previous boring locations, “step‐out” borings were advanced to help
delineate the extent of lead impacted soil identified during Cornerstone’s 2016 investigation. (see attached
Site Plan) This assessment identified the following Recognized Environmental Conditions, which are
defined under ASTM E 1527‐13 as “…the presence or likely presence of any hazardous substances or
petroleum products in, on, or at a property: (1) due to any release to the environment; (2) under conditions
indicative of a release to the environment; or (3) under conditions that pose a material threat of a future
release to the environment.”
Lead was detected at concentrations exceeding the residential/unrestricted use screening level
thresholds1 in several soil samples collected on‐site near Lawrence Expressway. The elevated lead
concentrations appeared likely to be the result of aerially deposited lead associated with the auto
exhaust from the adjacent expressway.
Lead was detected at concentrations exceeding the California Hazardous Waste Limit in two soil
samples collected on‐site near Lawrence Expressway. The elevated lead concentrations appear
likely to be the result of aerially deposited lead associated with the adjacent expressway.
A large volume of CDW (consisting mainly of asphalt and concrete mixed with soil) is present on the site,
both in stockpiles and in berms adjacent to the creek. In general, the piled CDW appeared to be
approximately 5 to 10 feet higher than the original ground surface elevation and contained fine to coarse
asphalt and concrete grindings, along with larger pieces of asphalt and concrete with dimensions ranging
from a few inches to several feet. Some of the concrete debris was observed to have fallen from the top of
the creek bank to the creek bed. Cornerstone concluded that the presence of CDW does not appear to meet
the definition of a Recognized Environmental Condition per ASTM E 1527‐13. However, the CDW does
not appear to have been properly placed adjacent to the creek under regulatory oversight and its presence
could impact development plans for the site. Refer to the biology section for greater detail on review bodies
and oversight.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS
Hazardous Waste
Four soil samples collected during Cornerstone’s 2022 investigation were selected for additional analyses.
Two of the samples contained lead concentrations that were greater than its threshold limit concentration,
defining the soil as solid hazardous waste under California Title 22 regulations. If off‐site disposal of this
soil were performed, the cost of transport and disposal would be significantly greater than a non‐hazardous
soil. Estimates provided by Cornerstone for disposal at a Class I landfill (Cal Haz), transport and disposal
1 No screening levels are published for properties used for park or recreational purposes. The available screening
levels are based on potential health risks and exposure assumptions in residential and commercial settings. Exposure
assumptions for park users would be different from residential and commercial users. For example, the anticipated
length of time that a park visitor would be exposed to impacted soil in a park setting would be less than the duration
of exposure in a residential setting. Thus, the residential screening levels may be lower than what is adequate to
protect human health in a park setting.
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were $180 ‐ $200 per ton; and at a Class II landfill (Deep Burial), transport and disposal were $100 ‐ $110
per ton. For disposal of non‐hazardous soil at a Class II landfill (Daily Cover), the cost estimate was $50 ‐
$60 per ton.
Construction and Demolition Waste
Based on the sampling conducted in 2016, the existing CDW on the site did not appear to be impacted with
contaminants at concentrations that would present a significant threat to human health. However, the
CDW did not appear to have been properly placed under regulatory oversight at the creek bank.
DEVELOPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Hazardous Waste
Given the short duration of time that park visitors would be expected to be present within the planned
park, it is Cornerstone’s opinion that the observed lead concentrations do not pose a significant risk to
human health under the planned land use scenario. The statistical analysis of the lead data shows that soil
quality at the site is not significantly impacted by lead with the exception of a thin strip (less than
approximately 20 feet) of shallow soil (upper approximate 1 foot). Given this, the City could consider three
options for addressing the lead impacted soil: 1) leave the soil in place; 2) apply a cap of clean soil at a
minimum depth of two feet; or 3) excavate and remove the soil to a depth of 1 to 2 feet for an approximately
20‐foot‐wide strip adjacent to eastern boundary of the site adjacent to Lawrence Expressway. Option 3
would also apply to impacted areas on the south side of the site, between the existing trail and the
expressway. If the City desires to remove the lead impacted soil from the site, then prior to any excavation
and off‐site transport and disposal of soil from the site additional soil profiling, sampling, and laboratory
analyses would be required by the disposal facility prior to soil acceptance. An oversight agency may
require detected lead concentrations greater than the residential screening level to be removed.
Cornerstone recommended that a copy of their report be provided by the City to the desired facility for
their review.
To better understand the potential cost premiums that may be associated with disposal of soil classified as
hazardous, Cornerstone recommended providing the report to a grading and/or hauling contractor
licensed to handle and transport hazardous materials. Cornerstone estimates that the current cost for off‐
haul and disposal at a Class I landfill (for hazardous waste) is approximately $180 to $200 per ton.
Construction and Demolition Waste
Disposal of CDW is regulated by the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery
(CalRecycle). Title 14, Division 7, Chapter 3, Article 5.95 of the California Code of Regulations sets forth
standards for the handling and disposal of Construction and Demolition Waste. Because the berms
containing CDW are located adjacent to the creek, leaving this material in place or removing it for off‐site
disposal could necessitate involvement of various state agencies such as CDFW and RWQCB, the
evaluation of which is beyond the scope of the Phase I ESA Update. Cornerstone therefore recommended
contacting the appropriate regulatory agencies regarding the disposition of the Construction and
Demolition Waste. Cornerstone estimates that the current costs for off‐haul and disposal at a Class II
landfill (for non‐hazardous waste) is approximately $100 to $110 per ton for deep burial and $50 to $60 per
ton for daily cover.
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Figure 14 Soil Sample Locations
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STORMWATER AND HYDROLOGY
A proposed park site at this location would provide access to Saratoga Creek and its associated riparian
habitat and link to pedestrian and bike trails along the Lawrence Expressway. The creek must be
protected from the harmful effects of erosion, sedimentation and post‐construction runoff pollution
resulting from any site improvements. The project will incorporate site design, pollutant source controls,
and on‐site stormwater treatment controls in conformance with the requirements of the Municipal
Regional Stormwater NPDES Permit (MRP) to reduce pollution, sedimentation and erosion impacts to the
creek. On‐site treatment controls will be designed using low‐impact development (LID) techniques,
which emphasize infiltration and bioretention as pollutant removal mechanisms, and will incorporate
hydromodification management elements as needed to match pre‐project discharge.
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps, the project site
is located in an area designated as Flood Zone D. Flood Zone D areas are not within a flood hazard zone
(100‐year flood zone), however, there is a risk of flooding within these areas, although the base flood
elevations have not been determined. There are no mandatory flood insurance requirements for Flood
Zone D areas, and most of the Bay Area falls within this zone designation.
SUMMARY
In its present condition, the site contains degraded asphalt spread out across the majority of the large
open space that the future park will occupy. No stormwater treatment is occurring on the site for runoff
that currently discharges into Saratoga Creek. Soil borings taken at the site indicate a high clay content
and low infiltration rate for existing soils. (See Appendix F: Soils Report) This would limit the use of
infiltration‐based treatment controls, but favor the use of other types of LID‐based controls such as
bioretention (rain gardens). The project site is located within the Saratoga Creek watershed, which is
considered to be less than 65 percent impervious, making any new or redevelopment proposals
exceeding one acre in size subject to the hydromodification management regulations of the MRP. The
intent of these regulations is to reduce erosion impacts to receiving waters from increased runoff flows
generated by increases in impervious surface area from new or redevelopment projects. The regulations
require that post‐development runoff flows be modified for new and redevelopment projects so that they
do not exceed flows from the pre‐project condition of the site.
DEVELOPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
No impervious surface improvements should be proposed within the riparian setback for the creek.
Valley Water and the California Department of Fish & Wildlife should be contacted to establish
restrictions and requirements for development within riparian setback areas. A net reduction of
impervious area for the site would be important for meeting hydromodification management
requirements, and LID‐based treatment controls measures will be implemented for the project to treat
stormwater runoff prior to it entering Saratoga Creek. Infiltration of the project’s stormwater runoff into
native soils is not recommended due to the poor infiltration rates, but pervious pavement is a design
solution that can be used in certain circumstances (i.e., adjacent to paved trail surfaces, pedestrian paths)
to supplement LID‐based treatment controls such as bioretention areas in developing a compliant and
effective on‐site stormwater management plan for the site. Bioretention areas could be used throughout
the site to treat runoff from hardscape areas. If necessary, bioretention facilities can be designed to fulfill
hydromodification requirements to match pre‐project discharge.
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BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
The following is a summary of the biological constraints analysis, including sensitive biological resources
that were observed or have potential to occur in the study area, regulated habitats that are present,
relevant local policies, potential development constraints, and design considerations. For the full
Biological Constraints Analysis, see Appendix G.
SUMMARY OF BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES AND POTENTIAL CONSTRAINTS
Existing Land Cover Types, Habitats, and Natural Communities
The study supports four natural communities, habitats, and land cover types in the project area: (1)
Mixed Oak Forest and Woodland Alliance, (2) Coast Live Oak Woodland and Forest Alliance, (3)
intermittent stream, and (4) Developed.
Waters of the U.S./State & California Department of Fish and Wildlife Regulated Habitats
Within the study area, Saratoga Creek meets the definition of both Waters of the U.S. and Waters of the
State. Waters of the U.S. has broad meaning and incorporates both deep‐water aquatic habitats and special
aquatic sites, including wetlands. Waters of the State includes rivers, streams, lakes, wetlands, mudflats,
vernal pools, and other aquatic sites. These habitats would be subject to jurisdiction by the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers (USACE) and Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB). Within the study
area, waters of the U.S. include the channel of Saratoga Creek up to the ordinary high water mark
(OHWM). Waters of the state include the same features regulated by the USACE but may also extend to
the top of bank (TOB) of the creek or beyond. The RWQCB may assume jurisdiction along both sides of
the creek to the outer drip line of the riparian canopy beyond the TOB, depending on whether the project
could potentially result in water quality impacts to the creek. Saratoga Creek including the bed and banks
of the creek up to the outer limits of the riparian canopy, which extends beyond the TOB, are subject to to
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) jurisdiction. CDFW also may exert jurisdiction
beyond the TOB and riparian vegetation depending on an assessment of the potential impacts to wildlife
and habitats within the project area. CDFW considers the riparian communities, such as the Mixed Oak
Forest and Woodland Alliance, to be sensitive because they provide important ecological functions and
values.
Special-status Species
No special status plant species are expected to occur within the study area; thus, there are no constraints
related to special‐status plants. One special‐status animal, the San Francisco dusky‐footed woodrat
(Neotoma fuscipes annectens) a California species of special concern, is present and nests of this species
would either need to be avoided or relocated. The southwestern pond turtle (Emys pallida, a California
species of special concern) has a low potential to disperse through the site and avoidance and
minimization measures would be required to avoid impacting this species. The yellow warbler (Setophaga
petechia, a California species of special concern) is only expected to be an occasional visitor outside the
breeding season; thus, no avoidance and minimization measures would be needed for this species. No
other special‐status animals are expected to occur on the site.
Common Nesting Birds and Roosting Bats
The site is expected to support common nesting birds and may support bats roosts in suitable trees and
the adjacent Calvert Drive Bridge.
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Local Ordinances
The site supports a large number of protected trees. Removal or pruning of such trees would not present
a major constraint to the Master Plan design and the City is expected to comply with their ordinance to
replace and/protect ordinance trees as needed.
The study area is on land being annexed by the City of Cupertino, whose property boundary extends to
the centerline of Saratoga Creek. Valley Water has an easement over the creek, and work within their
property would require an encroachment permit. Considerations for landscaping and trail construction
within their easement must be consistent with Valley Water’s Water Resources Protection Ordinance.
Wildlife Corridors
Within the study area, Saratoga Creek functions as an isolated corridor primarily for wildlife that are
commonly found in developed areas. However, due to the highly developed conditions in the project
region, the vegetation communities along Saratoga Creek within the study area function as an important
corridor for a variety of resident and migratory species to shelter, forage, and breed. Artificial lighting
that may be desired in the project design have some potential to impact wildlife that rely on Saratoga
Creek and adjacent habitats as a wildlife corridor.
DEVELOPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS AND DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
Based on the existing biological resources described above, we have identified several issues that should
be considered when designing and planning for the trail and park development of the study area. Our
recommendations are provided below:
Berm and Soil Pile Removal. Because portions of the berm are within the jurisdiction of the
CDFW and the RWQCB, berm removal, removal of trees within the berm, and any substantial
amount of tree trimming and vegetation removal from the berm will likely require permits from
the CDFW and RWQCB. Further, if the project requires any fill below the OHWM, such as an
outfall for new drainage, a permit will also be required from the USACE. However, in our
opinion, the project will likely have no issues gaining regulatory approvals from the agencies
because it will result in a net gain in vegetated features and a net loss in impervious surfaces along
the creek. Since the regulatory agencies prefer to review projects in their entirety, we recommend
waiting to remove the berms and applying for permits for that work, until the agencies can review
the entire project. Waiting to remove these features until the entire project can be reviewed by the
agencies will be less costly, as it will avoid having to apply for regulatory approvals twice.
However, since the soil piles in the main park site are located outside jurisdictional habitats, they
can be removed prior to project activities without authorization from CDFW and RWQCB. We
recommend that the City incorporate best management practices (BMPs) to protect water quality
in Saratoga Creek during any removal of the soil piles. The following list of BMPs would protect
water quality and biological resources in Saratoga Creek:
Erosion‐control materials (e.g., baffles or hay bales) should be placed between the soil piles
and Saratoga Creek. To prevent trapping of animals, plastic mono‐filament netting (erosion
control matting), rolled erosion control products, or similar material will not be used at the
project site.
Remove the soil piles during dry weather. In the event of rain, all work is to cease
immediately.
Nesting Birds. If the City intends to move forward with soil pile removal before August 31 this
year, we recommend that a pre‐activity survey for nesting birds be conducted within seven days
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of the work to ensure that active nests of protected bird species (i.e., birds protected under the
Migratory Bird Treaty Act and California Fish and Game Code) are not impacted by this work.
Implementation of take‐avoidance measures for nesting birds should also occur once the full
project is approved. Typical measures are as follows:
Avoid initiating project activities during the nesting bird season (generally February 1 to
August 31 in Santa Clara County) to the extent feasible.
Remove potential nesting substrate (trees, shrubs) that may be removed for the project
outside the nesting bird season. This would help to preclude some nesting activity.
Conduct pre‐construction surveys within 7 days of disturbance, and if active nests are
identified then appropriate disturbance‐free buffers should be established. Typical
disturbance‐free buffers are typically 300 feet for raptors and 100 feet for other species.
Regulatory Permit Timing. Communication with the agencies is typically not initiated until the
project design/project description is at a later stage since the agencies generally prefer design plans
at a roughly 50% CD level. Although not required, it may be possible to schedule an interagency
meeting earlier in the process to introduce the project to the agencies and gain their initial
feedback on the design.
Formal Delineation and Jurisdictional Determination. If the project will impact the channel bed
and banks of Saratoga Creek (i.e., below OHWM and TOB), we recommend having a formal
delineation of jurisdictional habitats and waters of the U.S. performed for any areas that may be
impacted by the project and having that delineation verified by the USACE. A formal delineation
includes collection of data on the soils, vegetation, and hydrology in potential waters of U.S. and
state necessary to complete a formal delineation report. This report would be suitable for
submission to the resource agencies. The Jurisdictional Determination issued by the USACE
would then legally establish the boundaries of waters of the U.S. and facilitate project and
mitigation planning and the permit application process. Even though the RWQCB and CDFW do
not have as well‐developed guidance and methodology for determining the extent of their
jurisdiction described previously for the USACE, both agencies accept the USACE methodology
for identifying wetlands and other waters. Should a formal delineation be prepared, the OHWM
and TOB shown in the figure below (and related figures in Appendix G for the full project site) are
not expected to change. The formal delineation and jurisdictional determination should be
completed before initiating permitting discussions with the agencies.
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Figure 15: Biological Resources in the Lawrence‐Mitty study area
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Stormwater Runoff. Projects in Santa Clara County must also comply with the RWQCB, San
Francisco Bay Region, Municipal Regional Stormwater NPDES Permit (Water Board Order No.
R2‐2009‐0074). This permit requires that all projects implement best management practices and
incorporate Low Impact Development practices into the design that prevent stormwater runoff
pollution, promote infiltration, and hold/slow down the volume of water leaving the site. To meet
these requirements, the project should incorporate the following features:
Incorporate the use of permeable surfaces, grassy swales, bioretention, and/or detention
basins or similar features to treat runoff before it enters Saratoga Creek.
Incorporate permeable trail surfaces such as pervious concrete to the extent feasible to reduce
trail runoff.
Design any new trails, regardless of the trail’s permeability, with a 2 percent slope to allow
runoff to drain away from the creek.
Western Pond Turtle: Avoidance and minimization measures for western pond turtles typically
include installation of temporary wildlife exclusion fencing along the riparian corridor adjacent to
areas of disturbance, worker environmental awareness training, preconstruction surveys and
biological monitoring by a qualified biologist. No compensatory mitigation for impacts to western
pond turtles or their habitat would be required specifically for this species. These measures would
likely also be conditions of CDFW approval for work in stream and riparian habitats.
San Francisco Dusky‐footed Woodrat Middens: There are 11 woodrat middens in areas most
likely to be developed by the Master Plan. Three of these middens are located within CDFW’s
jurisdiction (within the riparian corridor). However, as a trustee agency of California’s biological
resources, CDFW will likely make recommendations to protect or provide adequate avoidance
and minimization measures for all middens during the CEQA public comment period. Based on
our experience, CDFW typically requests minimum no‐disturbance buffers of 25 feet around
woodrat middens. If such buffers cannot be maintained, this can be relatively easily mitigated by
relocating the middens to suitable habitat away from disturbance areas, such as within the
riparian corridor. Additionally, CDFW may also require live trapping if middens cannot be
relocated close to their existing location (e.g., within 50 feet of the original location). To the extent
feasible, we recommend avoiding these nests to keep project costs down.
Roosting Bats: A focused habitat assessment for roosting bat habitat should be conducted during
the time of year when bats are active (March 1 – October 15) to evaluate if suitable roosting habitat
is present in trees proposed for removal, or there is potential for noise impacts within 50 feet of
potential roost sites. If the Master Plan design features are planned to occur within 50 feet of the
Calvert Drive Bridge to the north, this bridge should also be surveyed to evaluate potential
indirect noise impacts on roosting bats in this bridge and determine appropriate avoidance and
minimization measures. If a CDFW authorization is required for the project, such a habitat
assessment may be required within 30 days prior to work as a permit condition. We recommend
that a habitat assessment be conducted several months to one year prior to project initiation to
allow sufficient time to plan for appropriate mitigation.
Protected Trees. The study area supports 119 trees protected by Chapter 14.18 of the City’s
Municipal Code. It is assumed that the City will comply with their ordinance, including replacing
protected trees lost at a 1:1 or 2:1 replacement ratio and tree protection measures, such as
implementation of tree protection zones (i.e., protecting trees that are intended to remain on the
site from incidental project disturbance) and development of a tree protection plan by a certified
arborist, for trees that will be preserved
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Valley Water. If it is determined that any portion of the project would need to occur on Valley
Water fee title property, is within a Valley Water easement, or may impact Valley Water facilities,
the project will require an encroachment permit. Any such work would need to comply with
Valley Water’s Water Resources Protection Ordinance and Water Resources Projection Manual.
Per Valley Water’s Encroachment Permit website, permit review may take up to 8 weeks to
review, depending on the complexity. The first step is to fill out an encroachment permit to
determine if the permit is required. For more information on encroachment permits and the Water
Resources Projection Manual, visit https://www.valleywater.org/contractors/doing‐businesses‐
with‐the‐district/permits‐working‐district‐land‐or‐easement
Artificial Lighting: If the project design will include artificial lighting, we recommend
incorporating measures to mitigate potential impacts on the wildlife corridor associated with
Saratoga Creek such as orientation or shielding of lights so they do not project upward or toward
riparian habitat, use of glare shielded lights, limiting fixture heights, restriction of hours of
operation for lighting components, and planting of vegetation to shield the riparian area against
lights.
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TREES AND LANDSCAPE
SUMMARY
Existing Tree Survey
An arborist was employed to survey all trees with DBHs
(trunk diameter measured in inches at 4.5 feet above soil
grade) four inches and larger in the project area. The
arborist recorded data on tree species, size, condition,
and critical root zones. More information on notable tree
species and conditions can be found in Appendix H:
Arborist Report, along with detailed data for each tree
recorded.
The tree survey included 364 trees and identified 26
different tree species on site. Each tree was rated for its
suitability for retention based on tree health and
structural safety. Valuable tree specimens were
identified as large Coast Live Oaks (Quercus agrifolia)
and Valley Oaks (Quercus lobata) growing adjacent to
the creek bed.
Due to the overlap with the Saratoga Creek riparian
corridor and adjacent soil berms remaining from the
construction staging use, many trees on the Lawrence‐
Mitty site pose an additional challenge for construction
and root disturbance. 129 of the trees were identified
with trunks or roots located in the berm.
Existing Plantings
The Biological Resources field survey identified four natural communities, habitats, and land cover types
in the study area. (See Appendix G: Biological Constraints Analysis, figures 3a through 3d, for locations
of each type.)
Mixed Oak Forest and Woodland Alliance: Located along the creek, this natural community
contains valley oaks, coast live oaks and California sycamores, among others. This designation
makes up the entire riparian habitat and has significant wildlife value, despite the understory
including many non‐natives.
Coast Live Oak Woodland and Forest Alliance: Located adjacent to the creek, this natural
community is dominated by coast live oaks, with California buckeyes, toyon, and others. Here, the
understory is open and sparsely vegetated with a variety of native and non‐native shrubs.
Intermittent Stream: The stream channel is mostly natural, with a bottom made of sand, gravel,
and cobble, and lacking in vegetation. At the north end the creek becomes an engineered concrete
channel. At several points, the banks are made of steep gabion walls which are mostly bare of
vegetation (see Appendix C: Civil Site Exhibit).
Developed: This category contains the existing Saratoga Creek Trail, pedestrian bridge, and large
opportunity area in the north section. This large area contains soil berms and piles, and the
ground plane is mainly gravel and asphalt, with very little vegetation.
Figure 16: Existing Oak along the creek
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Existing Irrigation
An existing irrigation system is in place for many trees along the existing portion of the Saratoga Creek
Trail. Beyond that to the north, there is no existing irrigation. An additional water connection is possible
on site near Mitty Way (see Utilities section for more information).
Storage & Maintenance
Maintenance staff need the ability to pull a truck and trailer (for a mower) into the turnout off the
expressway. Responsibility for on‐going operations and maintenance of the site may be a shared
responsibility between Cupertino Grounds Staff and the Trail Maintenance Staff.
DEVELOPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Existing Trees
Removals: Sixteen trees have been recommended for removal due to poor health, condition, or in
some cases, current and expected future decline. Removals for site design reasons along the creek
edge should be limited as much as possible to preserve existing tree cover and habitat value.
Pruning: Thirty‐nine trees have been
recommended for pruning to improve
tree health and longevity.
Specimens: The tree identified as
Valley Oak #172 is in the early stages
of decline but has an opportunity to
remain as a valuable specimen if it can
be fenced off.
Tree Protection: Tree protection
treatments will apply to valuable tree
specimens if regrading or construction
occurs within the identified Root
Protection Zones (RPZ‐ radial
distance in feet from the tree base
designated to be under strict control
of project arborist during
construction). This will involve hand
digging to expose roots and possibly
allowing them to lay down at the new
grade.
Replacements: Refer to Appendix G:
Biological Constraints Analysis for
replacement quantities required for
each particular tree
condition/classification (10:1 ratio for
some instances, 1:1 for others).
Figure 17: Valley Oak #172
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New Trees & Plantings
Consider trees and planting to screen the visual impacts of Lawrence Expressway.
Plant shade trees at the trail, benches and amenities for natural shade and human comfort.
Extend riparian and native plantings along the creek corridor to enhance habitat value.
Use native and/or drought tolerant plantings to comply with California’s Model Water Efficient
Landscape Ordinance (MWELO).
Provide bioretention planting areas to coordinate with site drainage, meet stormwater goals and
improve water quality.
Refer to the local plant lists for appropriate species (Bay‐Friendly plant lists, C3 Stormwater
guidelines, and Saratoga Creek Master Plan planting palettes, for example).
Irrigation
Comply with Citywide plans’ calls for sustainable design and construction by employing efficient
water‐saving irrigation strategies.
Comply with California’s Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO).
Storage & Maintenance
Because of the site’s more difficult access, it would be ideal for maintenance staff to have a larger storage
area onsite—roughly the size of a one‐car garage. If a restroom structure is planned, it would be efficient
to place it within the same building. Storage and/or the restroom may be located to form one edge of a
noise barrier.
As the design progresses, we will want to receive feedback from both the Cupertino Grounds Staff and
the Trail Maintenance Staff, due to the shared maintenance responsibilities noted.
OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS
This report is the culmination of Phase 1 of the Lawrence‐Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan process. It
provides a summary of the site’s existing conditions and site studies and offers recommendations to help
guide the upcoming site design. Through this process, a set of opportunities and constraints is becoming
clear. These are graphically summarized on the following pages in an Opportunities Map and a Constraints
Map for the purpose of providing design direction for the next steps.
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Lawrence‐Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan ‐ Environmental Summary Report | 38
Next Steps
Phase 2 of the process, Community Vision, is close to completion, and involved an online survey, two
pop‐up events, a virtual community meeting and a site tour. This input from the Cupertino community
combined with the findings in this Environmental Summary Report will inform the development of three
initial design alternatives for the site
These concept alternatives will be shared with the community in Phase 3 for further feedback. In Phase 4,
a final, preferred design concept for the park and trail will be developed and reviewed for final approval
by City Council. Phase 5 is the final step in the Master Plan process and includes the required
documentation for CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act).
APPENDIX
A. Transportation Memo, Hexagon Transportation Consultants, February 2022
B. Noise Conditions Report, MIG, April 2022
C. Civil Site Exhibit, BKF, April 2022
D. Adjacent Utilities, BKF, April 2022
E. Title Report, June 2018
F. Soils Report: Phase I Environmental Site Assessment Update and Phase II Soil Quality
Evaluation, Cornerstone Earth Group, February 2022
G. Biological Constraints Analysis, MIG, April 2022
H. Arborist Report, SBCA Tree Consulting, February 2022
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LAWRENCE-MITTY PARK AND TRAIL MASTER PLAN
COMMUNITY OUTREACH SUMMARY REPORT
Visioning Phase
City of Cupertino - June 2022
INTRODUCTION
The desire for a new park and trail extension along Lawrence Expressway near Mitty Avenue
(Lawrence-Mitty) began 20 years ago. The City of Cupertino has considered the acquisition,
annexation, and development of a neighborhood park on the eastern side of the City since
2002. In July 2020, the City Council approved the purchase of the Lawrence-Mitty 7.83-acre site
from the Santa Clara County Roads and Airports Department. The site is in transition from being
within the jurisdiction, city limits, and urban service area of the City of San Jose to the City of
Cupertino. In April of 2022 the Local Agency Formation Commission of Santa Clara County
(LAFCO) approved the City’s request for annexation. The City of Cupertino has hired a design
consultant, MIG, to provide site analysis, gather public input to inform community-driven design
alternatives, and arrive at a preferred, implementable master plan for the site.
The community engagement effort was planned to ensure that the goals and ideas from the
neighborhood and potential users are incorporated into the design of the Lawrence-Mitty Park
& Trail Master Plan.
The visioning phase of this process included five primary components:
Pop-Up Events at:
o Bunny Run 5K – April 16th, 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
o Saturday Soccer at Creekside Park – May 7th, 10am to noon
Virtual Community Meeting – April 27th, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Lawrence-Mitty Community Site Tour – April 30th, 10 a.m. to noon
Online Survey – Open from April 4th - May 23rd, 2022
Attachment BDRAFT
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Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Master Plan—Community Outreach Summary | Page 2
The following is a brief description of each event and a synthesis of ideas and priorities that
emerged from this engagement effort.
POP-UP EVENTS
The City of Cupertino and MIG hosted two pop-up
events, designed to meet the users where they are
and encourage input from community members who
are not as likely to attend a public/zoom meeting.
Bunny Run 5k Pop-Up
April 16, 8:00 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The first event took place at the Bunny Run 5K event
at Civic Center Plaza. The weather was rainy, but we
received input from at least 30 enthusiastic runners
and their supporters.
Saturday Soccer Pop-Up At Creekside Park
May 7, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The second pop-up and final community visioning
event took place during Saturday soccer games at
Creekside Park, and we spoke with about 30
community members.
At each event, Site Analysis and Project Overview
boards were shared, and residents were encouraged
to add their specific comments to the boards using
post-it notes. In some cases, Cupertino/MIG staff
listened and recorded their comments. The goals of
the pop-up event were to inform the community of
the project, provide an opportunity for questions, elicit
input on desired park amenities, and continue to build
a list of interested community members for the
upcoming review of the alternatives. A project
factsheet was also distributed which included project
background, timeline, funding information, and a QR code directing users to the City’s Engage
Cupertino website to take the online survey or find out more about the project. The fact sheet
and larger images of the comment boards can be found in the Appendix.
Summary of Pop-Up Input
At these events residents were asked to consider two questions:
1. What kinds of recreation opportunities would you like to see in east Cupertino?
2. What are you looking forward to most at the future Lawrence-Mitty Park?
Below are general takeaways from the input provided by the community during the pop-ups:
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Recreation opportunities participants would like to see in east Cupertino:
o Running and bike trail, connecting to the larger trail network
o Walking trails separated from biking
o Picnic tables, benches, gazebo
o Play features – nature play, Play for older kids, Inclusive play
o Big climbing wall
o Exercise bars
o Basketball, soccer, tennis
o Skateboard Park
o Open grass area
o Mini amphitheater for teen music/performance
Environmental elements residents would like to enjoy:
o More shade trees and native plants, with plant identification
o Botanical and/or meditation garden
o Ways to look over the creek
o Nature trails
Additional amenities residents would like to have in the new park and extended trail:
o Sound wall
o Restroom and drinking fountain
o More lighting on the trail to improve safety
o Dog park (fenced)
o Access for safety
o Parking or bus shuttle from Civic Center
VIRTUAL COMMUNITY
MEETING
April 27, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The City of Cupertino and MIG hosted
a community virtual meeting, inviting
residents through email and a mailer.
The meeting was hosted on Zoom on
a Wednesday evening. About 15
participants joined the meeting to
learn more about the future park site
and the ongoing project.
To begin, project managers from Cupertino and MIG presented a project overview and
opportunities & constraints for the site. Participants had the opportunity to engage on a series of
poll questions using the digital tool Mentimeter to provide their feedback. In the Q&A portion,
participants were encouraged to ask questions and share their ideas about what they would like
to see included in the new park site. Input gathered during the virtual meeting and Q&A are
summarized below. In addition to the virtual meeting, the project team received several
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comments from the community through the Engage Cupertino website, which is incorporated
below.
Summary of Virtual Community Meeting Input
Below is a summary of key responses from the polling questions asked during the virtual meeting.
2/3 of polling participants live in the Rancho Rinconada neighborhood
Only one had children under 18 in their household
Saratoga Creek trail use by participants varied from “most days” to “once or a few times
a year”
When asked what their
favorite park is, participants
mentioned Fremont Older
three times. Also listed were
Blackberry Farm, Sanborn
Park, Sterling Barnhart, and
the undeveloped creek bed.
Favorite outdoor recreation
activities included walking,
hiking, communing with
nature, dog walking, and
mountain biking.
The things participants would like to see in the new park include:
o Comfort features: Picnic area; covered picnic tables; tables and benches
o Recreation features: Skateboard park; play structure; off leash dog area
o Natural features: Habitat restoration; opportunity to see, hear, smell animals and
plants, and rippling water (when it’s there); year-round Saratoga Creek water;
native plants
o Access to Doyle Ave. (2)
o Sound barrier at the open section
o Murals on a sound wall, possibly through a partnership with schools or community
organizations
o Consider how the homeless will use the park and prevent camping in the creek
bed where it is not safe for people in rainstorms
When asked what they would do to improve the existing trail, participants responded:
o Add lighting (2)
o Extend the sound wall
o More trees and shade areas
o Benches and exercise features
o Make the creek visible
In the last half hour of the meeting, the City of Cupertino and MIG had an open Q&A session
with the community. Topics explored in the Q&A period were:
Connection to Stevens Creek Blvd
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Safety/Visibility concerns
Importance of habitat restoration, creek health, and wildlife protection
Access limitations
Housing option, encampment concerns
LAWRENCE-MITTY COMMUNITY SITE TOUR
April 30, 10 a.m. to noon
The City of Cupertino and MIG hosted a Community
Site Tour on Saturday April 30th, from 10am to noon.
The purpose of this event was twofold. First, this
event provided an opportunity for the community
to visit the site that will become the new park.
Second, this was another opportunity to gather
feedback from residents on a range of issues from
their thoughts and concerns about the trail, the
access points, and their overall experience and
comfort within the site.
Throughout the event Cupertino and MIG staff
spoke to about 60-70 participants who were eager
to set foot on the site which is normally fenced off
and off-limited to resients. We saw a range of
residents from families with young children and
teenagers, seniors, bikers, and dog owners take part in the event. Cupertino and MIG staff were
available to respond to questions and provide information at a Welcome Station at Sterling
Barnhart Park and at each of the four (4) stations throughout the site (see site map below for
station locations).
Residents who attended the event were given a Site
Tour Handout with information about the four stations
they could engage with during the event. Using this
handout, residents went on a self-guided tour from
station to station. Each station had boards informing the
community about the project opportunities and existing
site conditions and challenges. Additional Question
boards were provided to encourage discussion and for
users to add their specific comments using post-it notes.
A project factsheet was also distributed which included
project background, timeline, funding information, and
a QR code directing users to Cupertino’s website to
take the online survey or find out more about the
project.
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Summary of Site Tour Community Input
Below is a a summary of the input received during the Community Site Tour event.
Welcome Station
Located at Sterling Barnhart Park, this station provided participants with materials & handouts
needed to participate in the site tour. There was a Project Overview poster on display to orient
residents as they approached the site.
Station 1: Existing Trail
This station focused on the existing trail, asking participants about their comfort level with the
noise along the current trail and what they would like to improve. Participants were given dot
stickers to vote on a questions related to the sound wall. Most respondents stated that the sound
was was “very important” to their enjoyment of the existing trail.
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Station 2: Circulation
At this station we asked residents how they would plan to arrive at Lawrence-Mitty park and had
participants place dots on a map (left below) showing where they would enter once the park
was opened.
The majority of the participants shared that they
would arrive at the park from the Rancho Rinconada
neighborhood, while another portion of them would
arrive from the Lawrence Expressway and Mitty
crosswalk. Majority of respondents stated they plan
to walk, run, or bike to the site.
Station 3: New Park Possibilities
At this station residents were asked to share ideas for the large open space and share how
comfortable they were being in close proximity to the Expressway. As shown by their blue dot
stickets, more residents stated that they felt “least comfortable” at this specific location in the
site. In their additonal comments residents shared that they would like to see a sound wall along
the site edge, not only to reduce noice, but for safety reasons as well.
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Station 4: Saratoga Creek
Here residents were asked to share what they would like to see in the new park, specifically next
to the creek. Because this is the point furthest away from the Lawrence Expressway, participants
also shared their comfort level was improved, considering the noise levels. The input provided at
this station included wanting to see nature walking trails, creek access, a history timeline, or
exercise machines. A few residents mentioned ideas for a dog park as well.
ONLINE SURVEY
April 4 – May 23
An online survey was developed to
expand outreach into the community.
It included a variety of question types
designed to understand the
community’s priorities for the future
park and trail improvements at the
Lawrence-Mitty site. The bulk of the
survey concentrated on desired
recreation experiences for the new
park and existing trail section. In
addition, participants were asked to
provide anonymous information about
themselves, including if they live within
walking distance of Lawrence-Mitty
Park, how often they use the Saratoga
Creek Trail, and what neighborhood
they reside in.
Over the course of approximately
seven weeks, between April 4 and May
23, 2022, the survey captured 563
responses. Outreach and marketing of
the survey was conducted via mailer,
email, and social media by the City of
Cupertino. In addition, a link to the
survey was included in the project flyer,
which was posted at the library. Refer
to the appendix for full versions these
materials. The survey was also
promoted at pop-up events, a site tour,
and virtual community meeting.
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Summary of Online Survey Community Input
Below is a summary of responses for each question in the survey.1
Q1. Which of the following topics are most important to you?
(Select all that apply.)
Figure 1: n = 555 respondents
The graph above shows the issues of most importance to the community. For those that listed
‘Other’ the word cloud below shows the weight of responses from the community with larger
text signifying more of those responses. Participants noted:
Protection of established trees along the Creek
Native plants and enhanced habitat for wildlife
Homeless encampments
Dog access
Serving as many users as possible
Inclusion of input from Indigenous communities
Outdoor education opportunities
Air pollution
1 For each question, a letter “n” is provided to identify the number of respondents to that individual
question (note, participants were not required to answer every question). This number is the basis of the
percentages shown. The value for “n” varies for each question since respondents could skip questions
when taking the survey. Also, some questions allowed participants to select two or more answer choices,
resulting in total counts greater than the number of respondents and total percentages greater than 100%,
in some instances.
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Other (please specify)
Figure 2: Other (please specify), n = 61 respondents, see the Appendix for full responses
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Q2. What type of recreation and park experiences do you and your family want
to see more of in East Cupertino?
Figure 3: n = 368 respondents, see the Appendix for full responses
The community would like the new park to emphasize bike trails, walking trails, nature, and play.
Amenities should be family-friendly and connect people with nature. Input on dog access came
from both sides, but the majority of comments were pro-dog access (11% of all comments) vs.
anti-dog access (2% of all comments).
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Q3. When I visit the new park I would like to feel (e.g., active, connected to
nature, relaxed, safe, etc.)...
Figure 4: n = 383 respondents, see the Appendix for full responses
Park users want to feel connected to nature, relaxed, safe, happy, and active. They would like
the park to be welcoming to all, providing a variety of things to do. It should be a place to
experience the area's seasons and get exercise out in the natural environment.
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Q4. Recreation Features that I'd most like to see: (Select your top 3)
Figure 5: n = 441 respondents
Nature play, things to climb, and fitness equipment were the top three recreation choices,
followed by swings, small-scale sports courts, and a bicycle pump track for younger kids.
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Q5. Wildlife, Nature, and Education Features that I’d most like to see:
(Choose your top 3)
Figure 6: n = 479 respondents
The top three features chosen by the community were Nature Trails, Native Plants to Enhance
Wildlife, and Creek Overlook/Nature viewpoint.
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Q6. Community and Comfort Features that I’d most like to see:
(Choose your top 3)
Figure 7: n = 495 respondents
Q7. What is your top priority for what you want to see in the new park? (Choose
One)
Figure 8: n = 499 respondents
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Q8. Do you have any other thoughts about the site or future park that you'd like
to share?
Figure 9: n = 195 respondents, see the Appendix for full responses
The word cloud above shows the weight of responses from the community with larger text
signifying more of those responses. More detail from participants is noted below:
Recreation features:
o If you can create a mix of the three options you listed-- small area for
recreational, preserving nature and connecting the areas with comfort features
that will be amazing.
o Play that encourages creativity, provides risk taking and is integrated with nature
o Play for older kids (for those beyond Sterling Barnhart)
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o Water play fountains
o Climbing wall
o BMX or pump track works well here because of vehicle access challenges
o Community garden
o Frisbee golf
o Skateboard park
Natural theme for the park:
o Keep it natural with nature and trees the primary focus
o There are lots of urban parks around Cupertino already, especially near the city
center areas and San Jose. This is a great opportunity to make our parks look less
urban and more natural.
o This can be an excellent place for both exercise and for a strip of native plants
and animals. Like a taste of McClellan near the big road.
o Integrate smart, energy saving tech and solar design
o Be mindful of the animal inhabitants and create something that works with
nature.
o Lighting doesn’t work with animals
Access/Circulation:
o Connectivity to great trail networks is important to reduce driving
o Connect the park to the North to Calvert or Stevens Creek, concern over dead
end
o Some prefer a wider bike path so bikers can get around 3 walkers together
o Consider student safety for those riding to Mitty High
o Safer crossing at Mitty Way
o Safer crossing at Bollinger--get rid of the pork chop islands
Additional notes:
o Restroom: Many say restrooms are a must; lack of restrooms at Sterling Barnhart
causes some families to avoid it. A few have too many safety and homeless
concerns to support adding a restroom.
o Amenities to keep area clean: Dog poop bag dispensers, garbage cans
o Safety Ideas: Call buttons/emergency phones, security cameras, safety lighting,
fence at top of creek bank, park ranger on duty
o Provide a public bike air pump
o Sound wall that fits in – with murals or vines
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Q9. Do you have any ideas about the area's local culture, history, art, or
surroundings, that you think could be integrated into the design?
Figure 10: n = 134 respondents, see Appendix X for full responses
The word cloud above shows the most repeated word responses as the largest words. Below is
more detail on some of the ideas generated by the community:
Acknowledge the Native American culture that lived in the area
History of the creek, and plants and animals native to the area
Northern California native plants and trees
The watershed – how is the creek fed, where does the water go
Timeline mural showing the development of Cupertino and local land history-- Ohlone,
ranches, orchards
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Signage/mural of all the ways this piece of land had been used over the last 500 years
Expand on the current theme of bike/walk trail
Hold a youth art competition and feature student artwork related to environmental
solutions and nature
Let the Fine Arts Commission be an active participant in the art and interpretive signage
aspects of the design project
Q10. Currently, I use the Saratoga Creek Trail for... (Check all that apply)
Figure 11: n = 480 respondents
For those that selected ‘Other,’ participants noted:
Birding and nature exploration
Like to sit on bench and watch wildlife
Safe green space very close to home
Watching the creek when it rains
Creek play
Running
Of all the uses, the most important is the safe, off-street biking with kids.
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Q11. On average, I use the Saratoga Creek Trail... (Choose the best response)
Figure 12: n = 479 respondents
Q12. I would use Saratoga Creek Trail more in the future if the trail... (Check all
that apply)
Figure 13: n = 454 respondents
For those that listed ‘Other,’ some key things that would lead to more trail use are:
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• A destination/park experience
• Attractive natural area
• Quieter, buffered from road
• Shaded
Q13. If I could add features to the existing trail, they would be... (Check all that
apply)
Figure 14: n = 434 respondents
For those that listed ‘Other,’ some suggested additions to the trail are:
• Creek overlook, viewpoint
• Separated nature/soft trails
• Restroom
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Q14. My other thoughts/ideas about the trail:
Figure 15: n = 86 respondents, see the Appendix for full responses
The word cloud above shows the more repeated suggestions larger. Most suggestions have
been captured in previous summary, with this additional detail from the community below:
• Expansion of the trail to the north is needed
• This is a great opportunity for habitat restoration in a busy area!
• Any safety related outdoor lighting must not adversely impact nature (e.g., bird
migration, nocturnal creatures such as moths, bats, etc.)
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• Given the proximity to Lawrence freeway, which cannot be changed, a lot of activities
listed above, like picnic area, sports, are not practical. A walking or hiking trail shared for
biking will be ideal.
About Survey Participants
More than 84% of respondents are residents of Cupertino
30% of respondents live in the Rancho Rinconada neighborhood
60% of respondents have children
Half of respondents (50%) live close enough to walk (in 10-minutes) or bike (in 5-minutes)
to Lawrence-Mitty Park.
Figure 16: Age range of respondents (above)
Figure 17: "Do you live within a 10-minute walk or 5-minute bike ride (approximately 1/2 mile) from the park
site or current trail? (above)
Figure 18: "Do you have children under the age of 18 in your household?" (above)
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EMERGING GOALS & THEMES
The information gathered from the engagement efforts by the City of Cupertino and MIG has
provided important insights and an understanding for the goals that the community desires for
the Lawrence-Mitty Park & Trail Master Plan. In summary, to meet community needs and
expectations for the new park and trail extension the focus for the site design should include:
Wildlife, nature, and education features
A variety of features to appeal to all ages
Bike trail extension from Mitty Way to the large open space area
Bike trail connection to the north
Separated walking paths
Play Features - Nature play and play elements for older kids
Comfort features: restrooms, seating
Reduction of onsite noise levels
Considerations for site safety
Shade trees and native plants for habitat enhancement
Dogs in the park
NEXT STEPS
The feedback received during this first visioning phase of the process will be used to develop
design concepts for the park and trail master plan. These concepts will be presented to the
community for feedback through multiple avenues to arrive at a final, preferred design.
APPENDICES
A. Project Fact Sheet
B. Project Flyer
C. Project Post Card
D. Online Survey Results (Survey Monkey)
a. *Translated open ended responses to be added
E. In-Person Community Input Images & Materials
a. Pop-up Event #1
b. Site Tour
c. Pop-up Event #2
F. Virtual Community Meeting
G. Engage Cupertino Comments/Questions to Date
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