CC 09-23-02Archives
AGENDA
CUPERTINO CITY COUNCIL ~ REGULAR ADJOURNED MEETING
10300 Torre Ave., Cupertino
Monday, September 23, 2002
4:00 and 7:00 P.M.
ROLL CALL
TOUR - 4:00 p.m. - City Hall Lobby
Tour the alignment of Stevens Creek Trail.
A. Rancho San Antonio Park
· Trail head
· Board walk
· De Anza Knoll
· PG&E substation
· Hammond house
B. Stevens Creek Park
· Villa Maria picnic grounds
C. Linda Vista Park
· Haul road
D. McClellan Ranch Park
E. Blackberry Farm
· Proposed depressed tunnel
· Back parking lot
· Simm's Property
· Stocklmeir Property
· Phar Lap crossing
· Blue PheasanffBlackberry Farm Golf Course parking
NOTE:
The Council will depart City Hall at 4 p.m. for the tour and will return to the
Council Chambers at 7 p.m. The tour length/number of stops may need to be
adjusted to meet the meeting start time of 7 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER - 7:00 P.M. - COUNCIL CHAMBERS
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
This portion of the meeting is reserved for persons wishing to address the council on any matter
not on the agenda. Speakers are limited to three (3) minutes. In most cases, State law will
prohibit the council from making any decisions with respect to a matter not listed on the agenda.
September 23, 2002 Cupertino City Council Page 2
NEW BUSINESS
Review and approve the Draft Feasibility Report.
Adopt the mitigated negative declaration.
Adopt Resolution No. 02-176 authorizing a grant application under the Recreational
Trails Program.
ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF
CUPERJINO
PARKS AND RECREATION ADMINISTRATION
Agenda Item Number __
STAFF REPORT
Agenda Date: August 19, 2002
ACTION:
Approve of the Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Report
· Adopt of the Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration for Study Area A and the
mitigation, monitoring, and reporting plan
· Approve Resolution No. 02-176 applying for funding under the Recreational Trails
Program for Study Area A
PREVIOUS ACTIONS:
Attached are: · Recommendations from the Stevens Creek Trail Task Force
· Recommendations from the Parks and Recreation Commission
· Resolution of the Planning Commission
· Planning Commission Minute Order
· Parks and Recreation Commission Minute Order
BACKGROUND:
The public process to determine the feasibility of constructing the Stevens Creek Trail within
Cupertino commenced in January 2001, with the first meeting of the Stevens Creek Trail Task
Force, and continued through reviews by the Parks and Recreation and Planning Commissions. A
complete list of 25 meetings held to date and additional meetings scheduled, is included within
the feasibility report: Appendix A.
The task force was recruited in the fall of 2000 to assist with the planning process for Stevens
Creek Trail, implementing a City Council goal of analyzing the feasibility of constructing the
Stevens Creek Trail within Cupertino. Members were asked to provide input on the feasibility
study, gather public input on trail alignments, and review drafts of the report. The task force was
comprised off residents living along the proposed route, representatives of trail user groups,
nonprofit organizations, the Historical Society, and Friends of Stevens Creek Trail, business
interests, environmental organizations, and elected and appointed officials. Participation in the
task force was by invitation. The task force members are identified on the acknowledgements
page of the feasibility report.
Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Report
September 23, 2002
Page 2 of 7
The council will be reviewing the pre-print final of the Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility report, the
Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration for Study Area A, the Mitigation, Monitoring,
and Reporting Plan for Study Area A, and the resolution in support of trail funding for Study
Ama A at the September 23 meeting.
STEVENS CREEK TRAIL FEASIBILITY STUDY:
Feasibility Study Goals:
The task force authored goals to guide the trail planning process and selection of trial alignments.
The trail is intended to integrate with the natural environment as much as possible, and provide
both recreational and alternative transportation benefits. The development of the trail includes
restoration of the creek corridor and enhancement of habitat for wildlife. The trail alignment is
located on public land, land that can be secured via a development agreement, or on quasi-public
land. The project will be coordinated with all relevant jurisdictions.
Feasibility Criteria:
Chapter 2 identifies the feasibility criteria.
In summary, the primary criteria include:
· Land availability - is sufficient land in public or quasi public ownership, or available to
public or quasi-public agencies, to allow a continuous pathway?
Habitat sensitivity - can the trail be constructed without damage to sensitive habitat
existing in the trail corridor?
· Roadway and creek crossings - can separated and at-grade crossing alternatives be
provided to safely move pedestrians and cyclists across roadways; can pedestrian/bicycle
bridges be constructed in the creek channel without significant loss of habitat?
· On street connectors, is it feasible to link isolated segments of the trail safely?
Proposed Trail Alignments and Issues:
The feasibility study was divided into four areas to facilitate the planning process. The various
areas have differing ownership, habitat, and restoration issues. The four reaches, if constructed,
will likely be built on different timelines. The four study areas include:
· Study Area A - Rancho San Antonio County Park to Stevens Creek Boulevard
· Study Area B - Stevens Creek County Park to Linda Vista Park
· Study Area C - Linda Vista Park through McClellan Ranch to Blackberry Farm
· Study Area D - McClellan Ranch through Blackberry Farm to Stevens Creek Boulevard
The study concluded that 7.7 miles of off-street trail and on-street bicycle and pedestrian
facilities could be developed within the four study areas. An all-weather, multi-use trail was
proposed to approximately parallel Stevens Creek for 3.3 miles. A variety of trail types totaling
Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Report
September 23, 2002
Page 3 of 7
3.15 miles are proposed to serve equestrians, hikers, and cyclists through the open space lands
near Rancho San Antonio County Park. These two trail areas are then connected using bicycle
lanes and associated sidewalks on city streets for 1,25 miles. The on-street bike trail segments
link the trail system to provide a total of 7.7 miles of off-street and on-street routes.
Study Area A:
Study Area A includes approximately 130 acres of Diocese of San Jose land that will be
transferred to Santa Clara County parks under the terms of the Oak Valley development
agreement. The historic Hammond-Snyder home, which is now owned by the Cupertino
Historical Society, is located adjacent to the parkland on a single acre. The proposed trail will run
by the historic house and is identified as a potential interpretive site within Study Area A. Some
of the issues within Study Area A include:
· Providing connections to the County park and the Hammond-Snyde[ home
· Providing safe access to equestrians boarding horses at Whispering Creek Stables and
desiring access into the open space land
· Providing interpretation at the De Anza lookout knoll
,, Avoiding habitat areas and potential impacts to sensitive species
· Providing access across the Union Pacific Railroad right-of-way to connect to bike lanes
on Stevens Creek Boulevard
· Providing a staging area in the vicinity of the Hammond-Snyder house
The document describes the proposed alignment as 3.15 miles of different trail types with three-
quarters ora mile of bicycle lanes on Cristo Rey Drive. A loop trail circumnavigating the
residential development and the Gate of Heaven Cemetery is feasible providing red-legged frog
habitat is avoided. Two alternative trail routes were proposed in the area adjacent to Cristo Rey
Drive to avoid the flesh water wetland. One alternative extended the trail parallel to Cristo Rey
Drive and across the ravine approximately 40 feet above the wetland. A sidewalk was proposed
as a cantilevered boardwalk paralleling Cristo Rey; this is not a preferred alternative because it
will not accommodate equestrians. The preferred alternative extends the trail down the ravine,
but crosses the drainage above the outflow culvert, which keeps the trail away from the
freshwater wetland. This alignment will be discussed on the tour.
National Park Service staff, working on the Anza Trail, is enthusiastic about working with the
City of Cupertino to incorporate interpretation at the De Anza Knoll. This is an opportunity for a
partnership that will be articulated in our first grant application.
The original alignment proposed was a so,surfaced trail to within 300 feet of the top of the
knoll, without access to the knoll itself. Upon review, it was determined that a single-track trail
to the knoll would control access and prevent erosion. This is the alignment included within the
feasibility study.
While we have shown access across the Union Pacific right-of-way in the document, it is not
known whether or not this access will be possible during the time the railroad is in operation.
Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Report
September 23, 2002
Page 4 of 7
Staff felt it was important to include this approach and the proposed staging area in the project
for CEQA review. Many comments on this access were received during the CEQA review
process. The response to comments received, prepared by Thomas Reid Associates, is included
within this packet and will be discussed at the meeting.
Study Area B:
Study Area B includes the entrance of Linda Vista Park and the closed quarry located between
Stevens Creek County Park and Linda Vista Park. The quarry is currently referred to as the
Canyon Heights Academy site, although it is unknown whether or not the private school project
will move forward. Study Area B is bordered by Linda Vista Park, Deep Cliff Golf Course, Linda
Vista Drive, and Stevens Creek County Park. A trail route through the closed quarry is identified
in the 1993 City of Cupertino General Plan and the 1995 Santa Clara Countywide Trails Master
Plan Update. Although this is private property, it is expected that a trail easement will be an
exaction of any development that goes forward.
The issues associated with Study Area B include: · Land ownership
· Providing a connection between Linda Vista Park and Stevens Creek County Park over
rugged, eroding terrain
· The presence of sensitive habitat and potentially sensitive species
· Neighborhood concerns regarding parking
The route through the quarry is proposed to be a single-track trail opened to mountain cyclists
and hikers only. Short trail segments are proposed to link the quarry trail through existing routes
within Stevens Creek County Parks. Staging areas to accommodate those who wish to drive to a
trailhead are at the Villa Maria and Chestnut picnic areas within Stevens Creek County Park. To
address neighbor concems over parking, a small staging area has been added at Linda Vista Park,
which will be pointed out during the tour. There are currently 35 spaces at Linda Vista Park; six
additional spaces for trail users are proposed.
Environmental review for Study Area B will be a part of whatever development plan comes
forward for the property. Study Area B is discussed separately because the timing of obtaining an
easement is unknown.
Study Area C:
Study Area C includes Linda Vista Park, McClellan Ranch, the Simms property, the abandoned
haul road and a crossing at McClellan Road. The haul road, which runs along Deep Cliff Golf
Course, is under the same ownership as the old quarry property. The right-of-way is 40 feet wide.
The primary design challenges in Study Area C include neighborhood privacy along the haul
road and a safe crossing at McClellan Road.
Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Report
September 23, 2002
Page 5 of 7
Privacy issues will be discussed on the tour, as the Council will have the opportunity to walk
along the haul road. The neighborhood was involved in the proposal to construct a boardwalk
above Deep Cliff Golf Course, on the western most edge of the haul road parcel. This is an
alternative that met neighborhood approval (see Appendix A, Community Meeting Summary).
Two alternatives were retained within the feasibility report for consideration of a trail crossing at
McClellan Road. The preferred alternative is a grade-separated crossing created through the
construction of an off-stream tunnel by replacing the existing bridge with a new bridge that
includes an undercrossing. Alternatively, a crosswalk with pedestrian-activated pavement
markings and warning lights was proposed; however, the separated crossing was much preferred
by the neighborhood and the task force.
There was neighborhood concern regarding the effects of the trail on the character of Linda Vista
Park; consequently, the proposed alignment skirts the perimeter of the park and utilizes the
existing pathway.
Study Area D:
Study Area D is Blackberry Farm and the Stocklmeir site. A narrow band of riparian vegetation
lines Stevens Creek as it flows through Blackberry Farm. The riparian corridor is of poor
quality; there is a complete lack of vegetative cover in some areas. In addition, badly engineered
and placed revetment on the creek bank diminishes the value of the creek for fish. Blackberry
Farm connects with McClellan Ranch through to the south. All the land in this study area
proposed for trail use is owned by the City of Cupertino and/or leased from the Santa Clara
Valley Water District.
Challenges within Blackberry Farm are significant. The area is prone to flooding, the entrance to
the farm is through a residential neighborhood and can receive as many as 1,100 cars per day.
There are issues of neighborhood privacy and security. The crossing at Stevens Creek Boulevard
is not insignificant given the speed and the numbers of cars traveling on Stevens Creek
Boulevard and the grade of Stevens Creek Boulevard.
The preferred trail alignment extends along the east bank through Blackberry Farm. The east
bank alignment requires only one pedestrian/bicycle bridge to connect the park on the east bank
with the Stocklmeir property to the west. The alignment involves reconfiguration of the 8th golf
tee and removal and relocation of the maintenance buildings within the park. The east bank
alignment will result in the relocation or reduction in the size of the playing court and softball
field area to the south end of Blackberry Farm. The route through this area is proposed as a
multiuse, all-weather trail opened to cyclists, walkers, joggers, strollers, and inline skaters. The
trail is feasible with the change in the entry fee operation at Blackberry Farm; however, the task
force did not have license to comment on park operations. Their task was to recommend an
alignment that worked under current operations. As a consequence, the trail was proposed to be
"contained" as it passed through the park in a series of deprassed and fenced corridors.
Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Report
September 23, 2002
Page 6 of 7
Rejected Study Area D Alternatives:
A west bank alignment, which required the construction of five pedestrian/bicycle bridges,
reconfiguration of the 8th golf tee, relocation of all barbeque facilities at Hillside and Sycamore
picnic sites, and the reduction or reconfiguration of Horseshoe Bend picnic area was presented,
but rejected because of the environmental impacts associated with five bridge crossings and
neighborhood concerns.
A grade-separated tunnel crossing at Stevens Creek Boulevard was rejected due to a lack of land
availability and environmental impacts. A signalized intersection at Stevens Creek Boulevard
and Phar Lap was eliminated from further consideration due to neighborhood concern for safety,
noise, and air quality impacts.
Petition Received:
On October 2, 2001, the Stevens Creek Trail Task Force received a petition from residents
requesting the equivalent evaluation of alternative trail routes that were not located within the
Stevens Creek corridor. The petition is discussed in the feasibility report in Study Area D and
included in Appendix H, Request of Study Alternatives. The petition was also brought to the
City Council on October 1, 2001.
Rejected Blackberry Farm Entrance Alignment:
A technically feasible, but heavily engineered and ultimately rejected trail alignment that
separates the free trail from the fee-based park was proposed for the entrance to Blackberry
Farm. This trail route is documented in the feasibility study. Although the engineered elements
of the trail were rejected, it was hoped that future efforts would learn from the feasibility
investigation and the difficulty of taking a trail through a park that charges a per-person entry
fee.
The task force, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Planning Commission all recommend
that the City Council reconsider the entry fee to Blackberry Farm. Their recommendations are
attached.
Restoration Oooortunities:
Throughout the document, there is discussion about Stevens Creek restoration opportunities.
The need for this restoration is most acute within Blackberry Farm where considerable erosion
and overuse has eliminated most under-story vegetation along the creek corridor. Staff has had
preliminary conversations with representatives from the Santa Clara Valley Water District. We
have mutual goals for restoration along Stevens Creek.
Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Report
September 23, 2002
Page 7 of 7
Opportunity to Apply for Funding:
The deadline for applying for funding under the Recreational Trails Program is October 1, 2002.
The program is highly competitive, but with the adoption of the feasibility report and the
Mitigated Negative Declaration, Study Area A is eligible for funding. Staff from the National
Park Service (Anza Trail project) and County Parks is interested in participating. The proposal is
being prepared at this time and will be discussed further at the meeting.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that City Council approve the Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Report, adopt
the Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration for Study Area A and mitigation,
monitoring and reporting plan, and approve Resolution No. 02-176 applying for funding under
the Recreational Trails Program for Study Area A.
SUBMITTED BY:
e Ambrosi Smith, Director
Parks and Recreation Department
APPROVED FOR SUBMISSION
TO CITY COUNCIL:
City Manager
RESOLUTION NO. 02-176
DRAFT
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF CUPERTINO APPROVING THE
APPLICATION FOR GRANT FUNDS FROM THE RECREATIONAL TRAILS
PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the Transporlational Equity Act For The 21 st Century provides funds to the
State of California for grants to state, local and non-profit organizations to acquire, develop
and/or maintain motorized and non-motorized trail purposes; and
WHEREAS, the State Department of Parks and Recreation has been delegated the
responsibility for the administration of the program within the State, setting up necessary
procedures governing project application under the program; and
WHEREAS, said procedures established by the State Department of Parks and Recreation
require the applicant to certify by resolution the approval of application before submission of said
application to the State; and
WHEREAS, the applicant will enter into an agreement with the State of California to
complete the project;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council hereby:
1. Approves the filing of an application for the Recreational Trails Program; and
Certifies that said applicant has or will have available prior to commencement of any
work on the project included in this application, the ability to operate and maintain the
project, or assign this responsibility to another entity via cooperative agreement; and
Appoints the City Manager as agent of the City to conduct all negotiations, execute and
submit all documents, including, but not limited to applications, agreements,
amendments, payment requests and so on, which may be necessary for the completion of
the aforementioned project.
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular adjourned meeting of the City Council of the City
of Cupertino this 23rd day of September 2002, by the following vote:
VOTE MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST:
City Clerk Mayor, City of Cupertino
Page
THOMAS REID ASSOCIATES
560 Waverley St., Suite 201 Tel: 650-327-0429
P.O. Box 880 Palo Alto, CA 94301 Fax: 650-327-4024
www.traenviro.com
Environmental lmpactAnalysi$ ! Ecological Studies ! Resource Management
Memo
To: Therese A. Smith, Director of Parks and Recreation
From: Christine Schneider, Senior Associate II
Subject: Overview and Discussion of Comments received during the Public
Comment Period for the Stevens Creek Trail Study Area A Initial
Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND)
Date: September 19, 2002
The City of Cupertino, as Lead Agency, has prepared and adopted the Stevens Creek
Trail Study Area A IS/MND/Mitigated Negative Declaration. The City has found as a result of
the IS/MND process that while the proposed project could have a significant effect on the
environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because mitigating measures have
been incorporated into the project.
A 30-day public review period was established for the IS/MND/Mitigated Negative
Declaration from July 29, 2002 to August 30, 2002. A public meeting was held on Monday,
August 26, 2002, to discuss the project. Written comments were received during the comment
period and oral comments were given during the August 26~ public meeting.
The comments are summarized below and a discussion of the substantive comments is
presented.
Project Summary:.
The City of Cupertino has prepared a Draft Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Report (May
21, 2002) to evaluate the Stevens Creek corridor and the adjacent open space and parklands to
determine the feasibility of constructing pedestrian, bicycle and equestrian trails through these
areas. The Feasibility Report analyzes the benefits of the proposed trail alignments to the
community and describes the feasible routes. The project area was divided into four Study
Areas, Study Areas A through D, to facilitate the planning process and future trail development.
The focus of the present IS/MND is Study Area A. Study Areas B through D will be evaluated in
a separate CEQA document in the future.
Study Area A encompasses approximately 130 acres of land within and adjacent to
Rancho San Antonio County Park and Open Space Preserve, Study Area A implements
portions of two Santa Clara County Trail Routes: the Stevens Creek Trail (S2) and the Juan
Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail (R1A).
Comments Received:
The following comment letters were received during the public comment period:
Page 2
Agency Letters:
A. United States Fish and Wildlife Service; Jan Knight, Chief, Endangered Species Division,
signed by Chds Nagano, August 27, 2002
B. State of California, Department of Transportation (CalTrans); Jean Finney, District 4 Branch
Chief, August 21, 2002
C. County of Santa Clara, Parks and Recreation Department; Kelly Gibson, Park Planner,
August 30,2002
Community Member Letters:
D. Robert Levy, via email, August 30, 2002
E. Libby Lucas, 174 Yerba Santa Ave., Los Alto, CA, August 31, 2002
F. Deborah Jamison, 21346 Rumford Drive, Cupertino, CA, August 20, 2002
Oral Comments
G. Steve Piasecki, City of Cupertino
Summary of Written Comments and Responses:
A. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Letter: The one comment the USFWS made on the
IS/MND was regarding the separation of Study Area A from the other trail alignments and
potential impacts to the red-legged frog. The comment stated:
'~Ne commend the City for designing a trail that avoids negative impacts to aquatic and
riparian habitat. However, the Initial Study only discusses Study Area A of the Stevens
Creek Trail, and it states that other Study Areas (B, C and D) will be constructed in the
future. Construction of the trail in Study Area A as proposed likely would impair or preclude
the development of alternatives that avoid take of the frog in other areas. Therefore, the
Service cannot concur with the City's determination that this project will not result in take of
the red-legged frog. We recommend that the City develop several altemative trail
alignments through all four Study Areas and conduct a thorough analysis of the effects of
the entire Stevens Creek Trail on the red-legged frog. If take cannot be avoided, the City
will need to obtain take authorization for the red-legged from through Section 7 or Section
10 of the Act."
Response:
The first sentence stated above concurs with TRA's analysis and IS/MND that no significant
impacts to the California Red-Legged Frog (CRLF) will occur. The statement above also
notes that this iS/MND is for Study Area A only.
However, the 3"~ sentence listed above is unclear, as there is no nexus between the trail
construction in Stevens Creek Study Area A and future potential trail construction in the
other Stevens Creek Study Areas. Since the Service concurs with TRA's statement that no
take of CLRF would occur in the Stevens Creek Trail Study Area A, the issue of potential
impacts in the other Study Areas along the trail is not of importance. The environmental
effects of Stevens Creek Study Area B is included in the Canyon Heights Academy EIR
(currently being prepared by others for the City), and a separate EIR for the Study Areas C
and D will be prepared at a later date. No mitigation banking is proposed nor is any
necessary for the portions of the trail along Study Area A, as there are no impacts to CLRF
resulting from the construction, operation and maintenance of this project.
Page 3
B, Department of Transportation (CalTrans) Letter: The Department of Transportation
stated that they were satisfied that the project would not have a significant impact on State
highway facilities and had no further comments.
C. County of Santa Clara, Parks and Recreation Department Letter: The comment letter
submitted by the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department focused comments
on: 1) the potential trampling of vegetation around the De Anza Knoll by equestrians; 2)
traffic safety issues related to the access driveway to the proposed staging area off of
Stevens Creek Boulevard; and 3) the staging area reaching full capacity and causing some
traffic congestion.
The letter also stated the Department preferred the proposed alternative trail alignment that
traverses the culvert just above the red-legged frog habitat, instead of the boardwalk
expansion alignment that was originally proposed for this area and was considered the
solution in the Feasibility Report.
Response:
Tramplina of De Anza Knoll: A description of the De Anza Knoll spur trail is provided on
page 11-13 of the IS/MND, The spur trail will be designed and constructed as described
in the comment. The spur trail will be a single-track trail limited to pedestrian use only
(no equestrians) that will go slightly below the knoll so that the trail users can experience
Silicon Valley views without trampling the knoll. A hitching post will be provided at the
base of the spur trail so that equestrians can dismount and ties their horses before
walking up to the knoll. This design is consistent with trail design policies in the Santa
Clara County Trail Master Plan. If trampling of the knoll does occur, Maintenance
Guideline M-3.7 of the Countywide Trails Master Plan will be implemented to discourage
volunteer trails and prevent trampling (page 111-7 of the IS/MND),
2. Stac~inc~ Area Access:
Mitigation TRAF-1 shall be revised as follows. New text is shown in underline font, and
deleted text is shown in strikothrough font.
The clopod portion of tho driveway entrance shall be paved, c~'J from the driveway-entrance
shall bo raised to more ciocoly conform to Stevens Creek Boulevard. It should bo raiced to
acoommodato onough cpace for hvo cars. to the railroad dClht-of-wav, apl~roximatelv 40 feet
from the railroad tracks. This distance is apl3roximatelv 210 feet in lenclth. This driveway
currently is depressed and will be raised to improve siclht lines of the vehicle drivers exitinc~
the new staclincl area and facilitate vehicle access onto Stevens Creek Blvd. The raised
section will extend 160 feet of this 210 foot distance, and will result in fill of up to 12 feet in
heiclht, a 7.5% (~rade. This will improve sight distances and provide vehicles with an easier
transition onto Stevens Creek Boulevard.
The mitigation measure reads as follows, without the underline and ctrikethrough font styles:
The driveway entrance shall be paved from the entrance to Stevens Creek Boulevard to the
railroad right-of-way, approximately 40 feet from the railroad tracks. This distance is
approximately 210 feet in length. This driveway currently is depressed and will be raised to
improve sight lines of the vehicle drivers exiting the new staging area and facilitate vehicle
access onto Stevens Creek Blvd. The raised section will extend 160 feet of this 210 foot
distance, and will result in fill of up to 12 feet in height, a 7.5% grade. This will improve sight
distances and provide vehicles with an easier transition onto Stevens Creek Boulevard.
3. Sta(~incl Area Reachinq Capacity:
Our estimates for the new staging area ara 15 new people per day, per Table I in the
published Initial Study.
Page 4
D. Email Letter from Bob Levy: The commentor submitted comments both general in nature
and very specific. Comments received can be divided into three categories: 1) general
typographical and grammatical errors in the IS/MND; 2) comments on documents prepared
by others, including the Stevens Creek Feasibility Study and the Santa Clara County Trails
Master Plan; and 3) substantive issues in the IS/MND.
Response:
Comments on the first categories will not be prepared as part of this staff report.
Typographical and grammatical errors in the IS/MND are noted. Comments regarding
content or language of the Feasibility Study goals and objectives should be directed to the
Stevens Creek Trail Task Force and the Cupertino Parks and Recreation Department. It is
not the role of the IS/MND to address the goals or objectives of a planning document; rather
it is to analyze any environmental impacts associated with the implementation of a plan.
Comments regarding the Santa Clara County Trails Master Plan should be directed to the
· County's Park and Recreation Department; since the Trails Master Plan is an adopted
document, it may not be feasible to expect a response from the County at this time.
The following are responses to specific comments that were relevant to the IS/MND. The
initial comment is numbered and directly followed by the response.
The commentor states in several places that the public participation process did not
include neighbors to the trail and that there was no one representing the Historical
Society, nor any resident from the Oak Valley development.
Response: The roster for the Stevens Creek Trail Task Force, dated March 21, 2001
contains the name of Steve Haze as representing the Historical Society. Task Force
members Beez Jones, Stevens Canyon Homeowners Association and John Kolski,
Stevens Canyon Quarry are also members of the Cupertino Historical Society. There
were also two members from the Meadows Home Owners Association, and one member
each from the Linda Vista neighborhood, Stevens Canyon Homeowners Association,
and the Scenic Circle Homeowners Association. No resident of the Oak Valley
Development was on the Stevens Creek Trail Task Force. This residential community
was under construction at the time the study began. The trail alignment through the 130
acres of open space adjacent to this residential neighborhood is indicated in the deeds
to each of these properties. Residents who had moved into new homes in the area were
individually noticed at the beginning the study in March 2001.
The community was initially noticed through the Cupertino Scene article and a direct
mailing to residents adjacent to the project area. Cupertino sent a mailer out to residents ,
advising them that the trail planning effort was starting and inviting them to add their
names or email addresses to an interested party list. Over one hundred residents
initially asked to be added to the interested party list. This list grew to over three hundred
as the beginning the public meetings.
At Task Force meetings, a Cupertino staff member encouraged attendees to sign in at
the door. This added approximately 100 additional contacts to the interested party list.
Simultaneously, the Cupertino Scene and the Cupertino Couder did additional articles.
More residents contacted the city and asked to be added to the list as the effort moved
forward. A special website was created to communicate the progress of the Task Force
agendas, minutes, reports and maps were all made available on the site. Meetings were
also noticed Channel 26 and the city website.
Page 5
As is stated on page 11-2 of the IS/MND, a "total of 24 public meetings were held with the
neighborhood associations, the Stevens Creek Trail Task Force, Cupertino Parks and
Recreation Commission, and Cupertino City Council to gather feedback on the trail
routes."
The commentor states that the "county has already objected to the intersection of the
proposed trails with Stevens Creek Blvd, and the proposed automobile, bicycle, and
pedestrian crossing from the proposed staging area below the Hammond-Snyder House.
Response: Please see the County Parks comments and responses, above.
The commentor also states that "...the Project does not effect [sic] any...or history". This
ignores the impact on the Hammond-Snyder House property.
Response: Page 111-38 of the IS/MND states, "The proposed trail project will not affect
the significance of the historical resources that are present at the Hammond-Snyder
home. The trail project will not change the historic use of this structure or the property
surrounding it. The trail within the immediate area adjacent to the home will be adjacent
to the perimeter of the Gate of Heaven Cemetery and cross an existing asphalt access
road and a portion of the field nearest the cemetery. A very narrow, 30-foot right of way
was dedicated under the terms of the 1998 Agreement for Exchange of Property and
Easements between the County of Santa Clare and the City of Cupertino, the O'Brien
Group and the Roman Catholic Bishop of San Jose for the purpose of trail connecting in
this area. Therefore, no minor ground disturbing activities associated with the trail
construction will affect this immediate area. In addition, the Cupertino Historical Society
will be requested to comment on the construction plans and specifications to ensure that
the trail alignment, surfacing and amenities integrate with the Society's future planned
uses of the property.
This page also states "The trail project also proposes a new staging area in the vicinity
of the Hammond-Snyder home, as shown in Figure 2, Study Area A Trail Alignment, and
in Photo 4, Photo of Proposed Staging Area. This staging area will change the use of
the land from farming to parking area, however, use of this field for a new staging area
will not result in the adverse change in the significance of the historical resources as
there are other fields that can be used for farming. The change in use of a field for
farming to a staging area does not encourage an increase in development densities, nor
does it encourage significant alterations to the historic character of the current land
uses." In addition, the staging area was sited away from the historical home and below
the view of the home to preserve the historical atmosphere of the site.
4. 3'he commentor states that the IS/MND is not impartial because it contains language
describing the Feasibility Study such as "the Feasibility Report analyzes the benefit of
the proposed trail alignments" and "describes the feasible trail routes".
!Response: The role of CEQA analysis is to analyze the impacts associated with a
'proposed action or actions contemplated in a planning document, in this case the
Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Study. The IS/MND analyzed the environmental impacts
associated with implementing the trail alignment as presented in the Feasibility Study.
'The language in question explains the purpose and role of the Feasibility Study and
does not reflect on the content or level of analysis contained in the IS/MND.
5. The commentor questions the "use of public funds and effort for trails through the
Whispering Creek Stables when those trails will not be open to the public."
:Response: There are no proposed improvements to existing trails through or adjacent
to the Whispering Creek Stables. These trails are marked as existing on the Study Area
A Trail Alignment Map. Therefore no public funds will be used for these trails.
Page 6
Regarding the Staging Area in the Hammond-Snyder Home area, the commentor states
that the "County has come out against it. Mitigation of leveling the road at Stevens
Creek Boulevard will push sloped roadway further back towards the railroad crossing."
Response: This issue is addressed in Response #1, above, and also in the Response
to the County letter of this report.
7, The commentor states that "No real impact analysis was done for the portion of trail that
will be closer than 100 feet to Permanente Creek. Was an alignment on the opposite
side of the creek investigated?"
Response: The impact analysis for the portion of the trail that will be closer than 100
feet to Permanente Creek is found on pages 111-21 through 111-26 of the IS/MND.
Measures BIO-5 and BIO-6 on page 111-26 address the potential negative issues of
constructing the trail closer than 100 feet along Permanente Creek.
An alignment on the opposite side of Permanente Creek would extend adjacent to
and/or through the Diocese of San Jose corporation yard. This site will eventually
transfer to Santa Clara County when it is no longer used by the cemetery. This route
also includes a steep grade near the Hammond-Snyder Home where the existing gravel
road crosses the creek and climbs the hill to the house. This route was not ideal for a
bicycle connection to Stevens creek Boulevard. This route may be suitable as a horse
trail in the future when the corporation yard activity desists.
8. The commentor states that "Closure of trail access points have not been addressed."
Response: The commentor is correct in noting that the trail will not be closed.
However, since there are no lights on the trail, normal operations will be from dawn to
dusk. Police protection will be provided, as is stated on page 111-61 of the IS/MND. As
stated on this page, "The trails and open space of the newly acquired Diocese lands will
fall to the County Parks Department and the County Sheriffs Department for patrol."
This includes enforcement of legal trail use and discouragement, as possible, of illegal
trail use. It is important to note that the Study Area A trails will receive the same type of
patrolling that is performed at the Rancho San Antonio County Park.
9. The commentor questions "If the slope along Cristo Rey Drive is filled some more to
widen the sidewalks and the boardwalk to 12 feet, will that pose a problem for the
wetlands below?"
Response: As stated on page 11-13 of the IS/MND, "The proposed project will widen
this sidewalk, using piles to extend the boardwalk from 6 feet to 12 feet." The piles are
drilled into he existing slope. No fill is required for extending the boardwalk in this
manner. The slope will not be filled further than what is existing. BMPs as included in
Mitigation Measure BIO-l, found on page 111-19 of the IS/MND will be implemented to
ensure that the wetlands below the sidewalk will not be impacted.
10. The commentor wants to know where the expanded sidewalks would be, since they are
not shown on the map nor discussed in the general description on page 11-10 of the
IS/MND.
Response: An extended sidewalk is a 10-foot wide sidewalk that functions as a trail.
These short sections of expanded sidewalk are used to connect the trail to the crossing
in the roadway.
11. The commentor questions how the Points of Interest aro identified, as the "first
paragraph says that they are indicated on Figure 2. Apparently they are by name, not by
symbol."
Page 7
Response: As stated on page I1-10, "Points of interest include destination points,
access points, staging areas and interpretive stations. These features are indicated on
the trail alignment map (See Figure 2). Destination points are community activity centers
to which trail usere may be traveling. Access points are locations that provide a direct
connection to the trail system. Staging areas are developed sites along the trail that
provide complete trailhead facilities and may include parking and restrooms. Interpretive
stations are scenic and/or educational overlooks of natural habitats and historical
features. These sites are intended to enhance the experience and enjoyment of the trail.
To prevent unauthorized vehicle access to the trail from any of these points of interest,
bollards and controlled access gates will be placed at transition zones between public
read right-of-ways and the trail, as necessary."
A generalized description of these points from the Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Report
is on the remainder of this page and on page I1-11. It is important to note that these
descriptions apply for all reaches of the Stevens Creek Trail, not just for Study Area A,
so some of these Points of Interest may not appear within each reach. The map shown
in Figure 11-2 on page 1t-6 identifies the exact Features of the Trail.
12. The commentor questions "Considering the Feasibility Study accentuation of such things
as bridges, boardwalks, and ramps, there must have been some thought to ADA usage.
How much, and where?
Response: All hard-surface trails are ADA-compatible. Hard surface trails proposed in
Study Area A are shown on Figure 11-2 on page 11-6 of the IS/MHD.
13. The commentor questions "Will there be a separate parking lot for the Hammond-Snyder
House?"
Response: As is stated on page 11-23 of the Project Description, "It is estimated that
there will be a separate parking lot for users of the Hammond-Snyder Home." However,
~ is not a part of the proposed project.
14. The commentor questions if bicycles will be sharing the sidewalks with pedestrians
Response: This is true for the path on the north side of Stevens Creek Blvd., between
Ridgeway and Foothill Blvd. Bicyclists will be separated in bicycle-only lane along Cristo
Rey Road.
15. The commentor questions the accuracy of figures, eg. Figure 3.
Response: Figure 3 was taken directly from the City of Cupertino 1993 General Plan
with no modifications, It was used to give an overall regional perspective of trail linkages ,
in the area.
16. The commentor questions impacts to wetland from horses (eg. manure)
Response: Alternative trail proposed adjacent to wetlands would be locate far enough
away that horse droppings won't impact the wetlands.
17. The commentor questions who will be responsible for new Staging Area Construction
and Maintenance
Response: The City of Cupertino will be responsible for constructing and maintaining
the proposed staging area below the Hammond-$nyder house.
Page 8
E. Libby Lucas Letter: The comments submitted by Libby Lucas raised concerns regarding:
1) the conclusions of the geotechnical impact analysis; 2) the potential for soil erosion; 3)
the proximity of equestrian trails to bike trails; 4) the protection of trees; and 5) establishing
a setback from riparian and wetland areas of 50 to 75 feet.
Responses:
1. Geotechnical Iml3act Analysis: The commentor felt that the geotechnical impacts should
be considered potentially significant rather than less than significant.
Response: The IS/MND provides a description of the area's geology based on reports
prepared for the Lands of the Diocese of San Jose Environmental Impact Report. The
discussion acknowledges the potential for severe ground shaking related to a seismic
event, seismic-related ground failure, and potential exposure of trail users to a high
intensity earthquake event. The conclusion of less than significant impact is based on
the fact that there are no structures or buildings directly adjacent to the trail that could
present a hazard to trail users if they collapsed. The trail does not traverse any bridges
that would be subject to collapse during a seismic event. The seismic hazard associated
with this segment of the Steven's Creek trail is no greater than that associated with other
development in the Bay Area. Trail users will not to exposed to geologic hazards any
greater than other areas of the Bay Area.
2. Potential for Soil Erosion: The comment noted severe erosion occurring on an existing,
steeply sloped Santa Clara County trail in the project vicinity.
Response: Page 111-38 of the IS/MND stated that the potential impact from soil erosion
was less than significant with mitigation incorporated. The trail will be designed and
constructed according to the Design and Maintenance Guidelines contained in the Santa
Clara Countywide Trails Master Plan. Ten design and three monitoring and
maintenance guidelines from the Trails Master Plan were presented which included
acceptable trail grades, limits to construction, trail surfaces, extent of grading, and cut
and fill. The Monitoring and Maintenance Guidelines (M-3.1, 3.2, and 3.5) establish
regular monitoring of trails for erosion, guidelines for conducting corrective drainage
work. Implementation of these measures addresses the potential for severe erosion and
provides mechanisms for corrective action.
Proximitv of Eouestrian Trails to Bike Trails: This comment expressed concern over
equestrian trails being in close proximity to bicycle trails because of the chance of
horses getting spooked by a bicycle.
Response: There are two places where equestrians will be using the same trail
alignment as bicycles: between the upper parking lot and the Hammond-$nyder Home
and the auto circle to the upper parking lot. For these segments, there will be a paved
bike trail and a separate soft-surface trail for equestrians. These soft surface trails
provide a connection for horseback riders using the new loop trail or attempting to reach
Whispering Creek Stables. The paved trail surface will be a maximum of 10-feet wide to
match the existing trail in the County Park. The parallel soft surface equestrian trail will
be of native material with a 6-foot trail width. There will be a buffer area between the
paved and soft surface trails whereever possible
Equestrians and bicyclists will not share the same trail and the two trails will have some
separation so that thera will be a buffer between the horses and the bicyclists. Having
separate trails and a buffer distance between them will provide a safer trail experience
for all trail users. Adjacent equestrian and bicycle facilities can be appropriately designed
and are described in the Santa Clara Countywide Trails Master Plan as Guideline G-2-
Shared-use Trails, Paved Tread - Double Track Trail: Equestrians, Hikers and Bicycles.
4. Trail Should Avoid Driplines of Trees: The commentor stated that the trail should curve
around the driplines of trees.
Response: The only location in Study A Area where trail construction will occur near
mature trees is in the alternative adjacent to Cdsto Rey Ddve that extends the trail into
and out of a ravine. Photo 7 on page 11-13 and Figure 4 on page 11-15 show the ravine
and the mature oak trees that grow on one side of the ravine slopes.
The proposed trail alternative in the ravine has the potential to be constructed within the
dripline of at least one of the existing oak trees. Mitigation Measure BIO-4 is included in
to project to minimize trail impacts of these oak trees. Measure BIO-4 requires that the
trail be located to avoid disturbance within the driplines of all trees, as much as possible.
If the trail must disturb soil within the driplines of trees, locate it so that the trees
disturbed are smaller than those listed in the Heritage and Specimen Tree Ordinance.
The measure also requires the implementation of all BMPs set forth in the Hydrology
section of the IS/MND and by following the policies on the Santa Clara County Trails
Master Plan Design and Maintenance Guidelines.
Because the final alignment of the trail is not defined at this time, it is possible that the
trail would not be able be to completely outside of the drip line of this one oak tree
referenced above. However, this is not considered a significant impact to this tree for
the following reasons: 1) the trail will be narrower in this location, approximately 4 feet in
width; 2) the trail in this location would be unpaved and surfaced with native soil; and 3)
the trail construction would be done by hand in this area to avoid injuring any roots and
limbs.
5. Buffer All Wetland and Riparian Areas: The commentor stated that a buffer of at least
50 to 75 feet be provided for all wetland and riparian areas.
Response: The IS/MND addresses the setback issues in the biology section. Santa
Clara County Trails Master Plan Design Guideline D-1.3.3.1 states that new trails shall
be set back from streams or riparian zones a minimum of 100 feet from the top of bank
or from the outside edge of the dparian zone, whichever is greater. The discussion at
the bottom of page 111-25 states that the trail will conform to all of the Trails Master Plan
Design and Maintenance Guidelines except for the required 100-foot setback along
Permanente Creek. Along Permanente Creek, the fence line of the Gate of Heaven
Cemetery is approximately 100 feet from the edge of riparian vegetation. The trail must
be located between this fence and the creek and the trail will be between 60 and 80 feet
from the edge of the riparian vegetation. Trail impacts to the riparian corridor are
slightly increased because of this and Mitigation Measure BIO-5 is included in the project
to address this slightly increased impact. Mitigation Measure BIO-5 requires the
placement of an aesthetically appropriate fence along the trail where it is near
Permanente Creek and the planting of native plants in the riparian setback area to
increase the density of the riparian vegetation along the trail.
The mitigation measure will eliminate any increase in impacts to the Perrnanente Creek
riparian corridor from the trail being closer than otherwise recommended.
F. Deborah Jamison Letter: This letter contains extensive comments regarding the history
and current implementation of the Master Plan for the McClellan Ranch Rural and Nature
Preserve (MRP), and the current planning efforts of the Blackberry Farms Master Plan and
the Stevens Creek Trail Task Force (SC'I-I'F). The letter raised several inconsistencies
between the policies of the MRP Master Plan and the Stevens Creek Trail as it is currently
proposed to travel through the MRP. The letter also raises questions regarding the type of
Page 10
trail surface that is appropriate as the Stevens Creek Trail travels through rural and County
parklands.
Response: The comments contained in this letter cover issues and trail alignments that are
located the Stevens Creek Trail Study Area D. None of the comments contained in this
letter pertain to Study Area A or the content of the IS/MND for Study Area A.
G. Steve Piasecki, Director of Community Development, City of Cupertino
Mr. Piasecki is concerned about impacts that may occur along the northern side of Stevens
Creek Boulevard, from the new Staging Area near the Hammond-Snyder Home to Foothill
Boulevard. There are many driveways and accessways along this route, and if the Study
Area A connection trail to the other Study Areas is built along the north side of the road, it
may cause safety issues and effect the current use of the area for casual parking.
Hexagon Transportation Consultants, along with Jana Sokale (consultant responsible for
preparing the Stevens Creek Feasibility Report) and Thomas Reid Associates (consultant
· responsible for preparation of the IS/MND), performed additional analysis to determine the
nature and magnitude of these effects.
The proposed trail would consist of an 8-10 foot wide raised multi-purpose paved trail
connection with a 2-4 foot buffer between the trail and the road edge. This trail would extend
from the trail junction near the Hammond Snyder home to the lighted intersection at Foothill
Boulevard. This trail construction would result in the raising of this area approximately 6
inches from the road level to the sidewalk level. The buffer would include a 2-3 foot
decorative fence (e.g. split-rail) and Iow vegetation.
The analysis of this new trail is as follows:
1. This new trail may result in loss of siclht distance for residents alonc~ Stevens Creek
Boulevard. Analysis was performed by Hexagon to determine if sight lines from the
existing driveways would result in potential accidents to trail users. It was determined
that the trail users should observe a speed limit of 10 miles per hour (MPH) along this
trail connection. The trail will be located in the existing bicycle lane and road edge to
afford the maximum sight distance from the driveways facing Stevens Creek Boulevard.
2. The new connection trail would result in loss of casual parkincl between the existincl bike
lane and the existincl soundwall. The City must to weigh this loss of an unmarked,
unpaved roadway strip that may be used by the Stevens Creek residents over the loss of
a connector trail from the Study Area A staging area to Foothill Boulevard.
3. The maiodtv of trail users will not be usin(~ this trail connection. It is important to note
that the original traffic analysis determined that this trail connection would not get as
much trail traffic as other parts of the trail (see Table II1-1). Page 111-73 of the IS/MND
states the following:
"The proposed trail access point from Stevens Creek Boulevard will provide a simple
transition from a neighborhood sidewalk and bike lanes to the trail. The primary purpose
of this access point is to serve residents of the neighborhoods adjacent to Stevens
Creek Boulevard; therefore, no parking will be permitted along Stevens Creek
Boulevard, and no off-street parking will be provided. It is anticipated that the users will
be either pedestrians or bicyclists. It is also expected that a comparatively small
percentage (5% or less) of users will access the trail each day from this trail entrance."
Stevens Creek Trail Study Area A
Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Plan
As stated in Section 15097(a) and (c) of the CEQA Guidelines, ~ln order to ensure that the
mitigation measures and project revisions identified in the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
are implemented, the City of Cupertino shall adopt a program for monitoring or reporting on the
revisions which it has required in the project and the measures it has imposed to mitigate or avoid
significant environmental effects.
"The City may choose whether its program will monitor mitigation, report on mitigation, or
both. "Reporting" generally consists of a written compliance review that is presented to the decision
making body or authorized staff person. A report may be required at various stages during project
implementation or upon completion of the mitigation measure. ~Monitoring" is generally an ongoing or
periodic process of project oversight. There is often no clear distinction between monitoring and
reporting and the program best suited to ensuring compliance in any given instance will usually
involve elements of both."
The following table lists the Impacts, Mitigation Measures, Timing of the Mitigation Measure
(when the measure will be implemented), and the responsibility for ensuring that the mitigation
measure has been implemented. All of the mitigation measures listed here will be implemented by
the City of Cupertino and/or Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department, as appropriate.
In many cases there are more than 1 mitigation measure per listed impact; this is noted by a blank
cell in the "Impacts" column
Table 1
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan
Impact Measure Timing Monitoring
Responsibility
AIR QUALITY
Impact: Construction of
the trail could result in
temporary air quality
impacts as a result of
construction related dust.
City of Cupertino
Mitigation AQ-I: During project construction
BAAQMD's standard mitigation of Best
Management Practices for construction sites
shall be implemented (BAAQMD CEQA
Guidelines, April 1996, page 14). The
mitigation shall consist of:
1. Water all active construction areas at
least twice daily and more often during
windy periods. Active areas adjacent to
existing land uses shall be kept damp at
all times, of shall be treated with non-
toxic stabilizers or dust palliatives;
2. Cover all trucks hauling soil, sand and
other loose materials and require all
trucks shall be required to maintain at
least two feet of freeboard;
3. Pave, apply water three times daily, or
apply (non-toxic) soil stabilizers on all
unpaved access roads, parking areas
and staging areas for construction sites;
4. Sweep daily (preferably with water
sweepers) all paved access roads,
parking areas and staging areas at
Throughout City of
construction Cupertino/Sant
phase, a Clara County
whenever Parks and
applicable Recreation
Department
September 2002
Stevens Creek Trail Study Area A Page 2
Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Plan
Impact Measure
BIOLOGY
Impact: Construction of
the trail alternative could
indirectly impact water
quality and CRLF habitat
in the wetland. Compared
to the proposed trail, the
alternative includes more
slope cutting and
increases the potential for
trail user encroachment
into habitat. These
potential impacts could be
avoided by developing the
trail as proposed.
construction sites;
5. Sweep off-site and adjacent streets daily
with water sweepers if visible soil
material is carried onto adjacent public
streets;
6. Hydmseed or apply non-toxic soil
stabilizers to inactive construction areas;
7. Enclose, cover, water twice daily or apply
non-toxic soil binders to any exposed
stockpiles (dirt, sand, etc.);
8. Limit traffic speeds on unpaved roads to
15 mph.;
9. Install sandbags or other erosion control
measures at the bottom of graded
slopes, along graded areas adjacent to
roadways, and/or along the shoulder of
public roads, and other areas as
necessary to prevent silt runoff to public
roadways and sensitive habitats;
10. Replant vegetation in disturbed areas as
quickly as possible;
11. Suspend excavation and grading activity
whenever the wind is so high that it
results in visible dust plumes despite
control efforts.
Mitigation BIO-I: Follow both Design and
Use/Management Guidelines in the Santa
Clara County Trails Master Plan, including M
- 3.1, 3.2, 3.5 Trail Monitoring and
Maintenance Guidelines. These guidelines
consist of the following:
M - 3.1' A yearly inventory of all trail
maintenance, including drainage, vegetation
clearing, signing, surfacing, need for graffiti
removal, and repair of structures, gates,
fences, and barriers shall be done in early
spring, prior to the heavy summer use period.
Based on maintenance reports, trails shall be
subject to closure or repair as warranted.
Timing
Throughout
construction
phase and
regularly
thereafter
Monitoring
Responsibility
Santa Clara
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
M - 3.2 Short segments of trails may
require permanent re-muting, due to
landslides or other problems. The original
mute shall be closed to use and reclaimed
when a new mute is provided. The managing
agency shall determine when such remuting
is necessary. Should re-routing involve
private lands, all trail policies and guidelines
shall apply.
City of Pacifica June 2002
Stevens Creek Trail Study Area A
Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Plan
Impact Measure
Impact: Increased use of
the volunteer trail south of
the above-mentioned
wetland araa could rasult
in degradation of riparian
values along the trail.
Impact Trail construction
and use could impact
sensitive blue oak
woodland, frashwater
wetlands and riparian
habitats.
Impact: The praposed trail
could disturb vegetation
and trample mud where it
is praposed to crass a
seep.
Timing
M - 3.$* Corractive work for drainage or
erosion problems shall be performed within a
reasonable period of time. Where necessary,
barriera to pravent further erosion shall be
erected until problems ara corrected. Missing
or damaged signs shall be replaced as soon
as possible. Damaged structures shall be
repairad as soon as possible. Damaged
gates, fences, and barriers shall be replaced
as soon as possible. Trails shall be closed if
corrective work cannot be accomplished
within a raasonable time frame. If monitoring
reveals that undesirable soil compaction is
occurring in sensitive habitats adjacent to
trails, erection of barriers or other appropriate
measures (such as trail rerouting) will be
employed as needed to discourage off-trail
use.
* Indicates that this design or management
action guideline was developed for the
Countywide Trails Master Plan specifically to
mitigate a potential environmental impact.
Mitigation BIO-2A: Close access to the Throughout
volunteer trail running thraugh a riparian area construction
along the base of the rail line, on the south phase
side of the wetland area southwest of the
PG&E substation. Follow policy M - 3.7 Trail
Monitoring and Maintenance: Brush shall
be used to cover bootleg trails, abandoned
trails, or shortcuts to discourage use until
natural vegetation returns.
Mitigation BIO-2B: Construct an Throughout
aesthetically-pleasing fence designed to construction
prevent off-trail use along the trails in three phase
places; where trails are near sensitive wetland
or riparian resources, along Permanente
Creek, along the wetland at the southwest
end of the PG&E substation, and at the trail
junction near the wetland at the northeast end
of the PG&E substation. This measure will
also satisfy Trail Design Guideline D - 1.3.1.3
of the Santa Clara County Trails Master Plan,
discussed below.
Mitigation BIO-3: Constract a crossing over Throughout
the seep. Follow trail design guidelines from construction
the Santa Clara County Trails Master Plan, phase
including the following:
D - 4,1.1 Drainage Crossings: Trails
crossing creeks and drainages may require a
bridge or culvert. Structuras over water
courses shall be carefully placed to minimize
disturbance. Erosion contral measures shall
be taken to pravent erosion at the ouffalls of
Page 3
Monitoring
Responsibility
Santa Clara
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
Santa Clara
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
Santa Clara
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
City of Pacifica June 2002
Stevens Creek Trail Study Area A Page 4
Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Plan
Impact Measure
Timing
Impact: The proposed
trail alternative in the
ravine adjacent to Cdsto
ney Drive has the potential
be constructed within the
dripline of at least one of
the existing oak trees (see
Figure 4 in Initial Study
document).
Impact: The segment of
the trail along Permanente
Creek does not conform to
policy D - 1.3.3.1 and is
proposed to be within 100
feet of the riparian
vegetation. The potential
for construction-related
and trail user impacts to
the riparian corridor and
the buffer area are thus
increased slightly,
although probably not
significantly.
drainage structures.
Mitigation BIO-4: Locate the precise mute of Construction
the trail to avoid disturbance within the driplines phase
of all trees, as much as is possible. If the trail
must disturb soil within the ddplines of trees,
locate it so that the trees disturbed are smaller
than those listed in the Heritage and Specimen
Tree Ordinance. Minimize all disturbance within
the driplines by implementing the BMPs set fortl
in the Hydrology discussion of this document,
and by following the policies in the Santa Clara
County Trails Master Plan Design and
Maintenance Guidelines, as described below.
Mitigation BIO-5: Policy D - 1.3.1.3 shall be Throughout
followed by placing an aesthetically construction
appropriate fence (such as a split rail fence) phase
along the trail where it is near Permanente
Creek. The fence shall be constructed to
prevent horees, bicyclists, and pedestrians
from intruding closer to the riparian corridor.
Mitigation BIO-6 Policy D - 1.3.3.4 shall be
followed by planting various native plants in
the riparian setback area. Potential plants
could include oaks, elderberry, and native
grasses. This will enhance the trail
experience and further reduce potential
impacts to the Permanente Creek riparian
area by increasing the vegetation density
between the trail and the creek.
Throughout
construction
phase
CULTURAL RESOURCES
Impact: Proposed trail
construction could reveal
as yet-unknown
subsurface prehistoric and
historic amhaeological
deposits.
Mitigation CUL..OI: Retain the services of a
qualified amhaeologist who will be available to
the City of Cupertino for on-call consultation in
the event of an inadvertent discovery of
cultural resources or for general project
review.
Mitigation CUL-02: Prepare language for
insertion in the General Conditions (City of
Cupertino and Santa Clara County Parks and
Recreation Department to verify form) of the
trail construction contract for both trail and
staging area construction that mandates an
immediate work stoppage within 25 feet of an
unexpected discovery of cultural resoumes
and consultation with a professional
amhaeologist in regard to evaluation and
further treatment.
Throughout
construction
phase,
whenever
applicable
Throughout
construction
phase,
whenever
applicable
Monitoring
Responsibility
Santa Clara
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
Santa Clara
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
Santa Clara
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
City of
Cupertino/Sent
a Clara County
Parks and
Recreation '
Department
City of
Cupertino/Sant
a Clara County
Parks and
Recreation
Department
City of Pacifica June 2002
Stevens Creek Trail Study Area A Page 5
Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Plan
Impact Measure
Mitigation CUL-03:
Restrict all construction operations to the
designated trail alignments.
HYDROLOGY
Impact: The entire
project, consisting of the
trails and staging area
near the Hammond-
Snyder Home is less than
5 acres, therefore a
SWPPP does not have to
be prepared for the
project.
However, employing Best
Management Practices
(BMPs) as listed in the
Blueprint for a Clean Bay.
These BMPs will reduce
ensure that no significant
impacts related to new
construction and surfacing
on the trails occur.
Mitigation HYD-t: Best Management
Practices (BMPs) for trail construction to avoid
water quality impacts:
1) Use erosion and sediment control
measures where appropriate (ie.
downslope along the trail construction
zone) including:
· avoid excavation and grading
activities during wet weather (Bay
Area rainy season is from October 15
- April 15, however trail construction
can take place during this period if
the weather forecast predicts a
period of dry weather)
· remove existing vegetation only
when absolutely necessary
· plant temporary vegetation for
erosion control on slopes or where
no construction is immediately
planned
· where replanting is not feasible, use
secured plastic sheeting or filter
fabric to stabilize and protect soils,
stockpiled topsoil, and landscaping
materials
· as a last resort, protect downslope
drainage courses, streams, or catch
basins with hay bales or temporary
drainage swales
2) Control runoff from the construction
site by following these measures:
· construct diversion dikes and
drainage swales to channel runoff
around the site. Line swales with
grass or roughened pavement to
reduce runoff velocity
· use berms and drainage ditches to
divert runoff around exposed areas
· roughen other surfaces by adding rip
rap, sand bags, rocks straw bales, or
temporary vegetation. (Do not use
asphalt rubble or other demolition
debris for this purpose)
· consider using check dams, filter
fabric, and terracing
· if none of the above measures
seems appropriate for the site, install
Timing
Throughout
construction
phase,
whenever
applicable
BMPs
implemented
during
construction
phase
Monitoring
Responsibility
City of
Cupertino/
Santa Clara
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
City of
Cupertino/
Santa Clara
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
City of Pacifica June 2002
Stevens Creek Trail Study Area A Page 6
Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Plan
Impact Measure
sediment traps in catch basins and
drain inlets, or create an overflow
drain by raising the inlet so that
sediments will settle before reaching
the drain
3) Prevent spills and leaks from
construction vehicles and
equipment;
4) Clean up spills immediately when they
happen, using dry cleanup methods
whenever possible, and if water must
be used, use just enough to keep the
dust down;
5) Store materials under cover;
6) Cover and maintain dumpsters;
7) Clean up paints and solvents,
adhesives, and cleaning solutions
properly;
8) Keep fresh concrete and cement
mortars out of gutters, storm drains
and streams;
9) Service and maintain portable toilets;
10) Dispose of cleared vegetation properly;
11) Make sure all demolition waste is
properly disposed;
12) Plan pavement construction to avoid
storm water pollution including:
· apply asphalt and seal coat during
dry weather
· cover catch basins and manholes
when applying seal coat
· always park pavers over drip pans or
absorbent matedal
NOISE
Impact: Trail construction
could result in a significant,
but temporary, increase in
local ambient noise levels.
PUBLIC SERVICES
Impact: Lack of
maintenance of the trails
results in the degradation
of the facilities and could
result in safety, security
and liability issues
TRANSPORTATION/
TRAFFIC
Impact: The existing
driveway that would ser~e
the proposed staging area
City of Pacifica
Timing
Mitigation NOISE-0'I To reduce construction Throughout
noise, Construction Best Management construction
Practices (BMPs) that require appropriate phase,
mufflers for large vehicles, the prohibition of whenever
loud personal radios by construction applicable
personnel at the site, and construction-only
times between 7:00 AM -7:00 PM, Monday -
Friday, (holidays excluded) will be used.
Mitigation PUB-01: The City of Cupertino
Public Works Department and Santa Clare
County Parks and Recreation Department
shall ensure that adequate funds exist in their
respective budgets for staging area and trail
maintenance prior to trail implementation.
Prior to trail
implement-
ation
Mitigation TRAF-01: The driveway entrance Pdor to trail
shall be paved from the entrance to Stevens implement-
Creek Boulevard to the railroad right-of-way, ation.
Monitoring
Responsibility
City of
Cupertino/
Santa Clara
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
City of
Cupertino/
Santa Clara
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
City of
Cupertino/
Santa Clara
June 2002
Stevens Creek Treil Study Area A Page
Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Plan
Impact Measure
by the Hammond-Snyder
Home is unpaved and
steeply sloped, creating a
safety hazard.
Impact: The proposed
crosswalk at Stevens
Creek Boulevard and
Ridgeway could endanger
the safety of pedestrians
and bicyclists. The
actuated pedestrian
crossing signal would
provide a false sense of
security for anyone using
this crosswalk; just
because they pressed the
button would not mean
that an oncoming truck
could stop. In addition,
the pedestrian crossings at
the traffic signal serving
the intersection of Foothill
and Stevens Creek
Boulevards may need to
be improved to add items
such as actuation buttons.
approximately 40 feet from the railroad tracks.
This distance is approximately 210 feet in
length. This driveway currently is depressed
and will be raised to improve sight lines of the
vehicle drivers exiting the new staging area
and facilitate vehicle access onto Stevens
Creek Blvd. The raised section will extend
160 feet of this 210 foot distance, and will
result in fill of up to 12 feet in height, a 7.5%
grade. This will improve sight distances and
provide vehicles with an easier transition onto
Stevens Creek Boulevard.
Mitigation TRAF-02: Trail users shall be
discouraged from crossing Stevens Creek
Boulevard at Ridgeway Drive, and instead
continue to use the north side of Stevens
Creek Boulevard and cross at the existing
crosswalk at the Stevens Creek/Foothill
Boulevard intersection.
Mitigation TRAF-03: Because the existing
roadway right-of-way along the north side of
Stevens Creek Boulevard is not pedestrian or
bike friendly, it shall be improved to provide a
Class I Bike Path as designated by Caltrans
all the way to the intersection of Foothill and
Stevens Creek Boulevards. The path along
the north side of Stevens Creek Boulevard
shall be designed to safely accommodate
both pedestrians and bicyclists. It shall be a
minimum of ten feet in width with a
landscaped buffer between 18" and 3 feet
between the path and the parallel roadway
Timing
Prior to trail
implementat-
ion
Prior to trail
implement-
ation
Mitigation TRAF-O4: The City must ensure Prior to trail
that the signals at the Foothill/Stevens Creek implement-
Boulevards have pedestrian and/or bicyclist- ation
activated buttons.
Monitoring
Responsibility
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
City of
Cupertino/
Santa Clara
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
City of
Cupertino/
Santa Clara
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
City of
Cupertino/
Santa Clare
County Parks
and Recreation
Department
City of Pacifica June 2002
City of Cupertino
Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Study
Feasibility Report Recommendations
The Stevens Creek Trail Task Force convened and held community meetings throughout
2001. During the year, the Task Fome made recommendations on trail alignments and
features within the four study areas evaluated during the course of the Stevens Creek Trail
Feasibility Study. This document briefly summarizes the trail alignments and amenities
described in the Draft Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Report and identifies recommended
actions for consideration by the Task Fome on June 18, 2002. The four study areas included:
Study Area A
Rancho San Antonio County Park to Stevens Creek Boulevard
Study Area B
Stevens Creek County Park to Linda Vista Park
Study Area C
Linda Vista Park through McClellan Ranch to Blackberry Farm
Study Area D
McClellan Ranch through Blackberry Farm to Stevens Creek Boulevard
This feasibility study concluded that 7.70 miles of off-street trails and on-street bicycle and
pedestrian facilities could be developed within the four study areas. A trail is proposed
approximately parallel to Stevens Creek for 3.30 miles from Stevens Creek County Park to
Stevens Creek Boulevard through Study Areas B, C and D. The trail type and surface was
influenced by the topography of each study area and by public sentiment regarding trail
development. This route will provide both a 1.30-mile single-track trail for hikers and
mountain bicyclists in Study Area B and 1.00-mile all weather, multi-use trail for walkers,
joggers, strollers, bicyclists and in-line skaters in Study Areas C and D.
A variety of trail types and surfaces totaling 3.15 miles are proposed to serve equestrians,
hikers and bicyclists through the open space lands adjacent to Rancho San Antonio County
Park in Study Area A. An approximately 1.65-mile soft surface, multi-use trail will serve
hikers and equestrians. A 1.50-mile all weather, multi-use trail will provide a route for
walkers, joggers, strollers, bicyclists and in-line skaters. An equestrian trail will parallel this,
route and will link Whispering Creek Stables to Rancho San Antonio County Park. The all
weather, multi-use trail will extend from the auto circle on Cristo Rey Drive through the open
space lands to Stevens Creek Boulevard to provide a connection to Study Areas B, C and D.
These two locations in which trails are proposed, the open space lands (Study Area A) and
the creek corridor setting (Study Areas B, C and D), will be connected using bicycle lanes
and the associated sidewalks on city streets for 1.25 miles. These on-street segments link
together the trail system to provide a total of 7.70 miles off-street and on-street routes. The
JS: Cupertino/SCT/Repod Recommendations Page 1
City of Cupertino
Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Study
trail system will also provide a non-motorized route for walkers and hikers traveling between
Rancho San Antonio County Park and Stevens Creek County Park.
The trail system includes one underpass beneath McClellan Road, two at-grade street
crossings on Stevens Creek Boulevard, one pedestrian/bicycle bridge spanning Stevens Creek
and one crossing of the Union Pacific Railroad tracks. The McClellan Road underpass will .
likely be subject to temporary closures during significant winter storm events. Trail access
points, staging areas and interpretive stations are included in each of the study areas. The trail
alignment features are detailed in the Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Report.
The trails proposed in Study Area A are currently being reviewed under the guidelines of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Thomas Reid Associates, environmental
consultants, are in the process of preparing environmental documents for public review. The
environmental review for Study Areas B, C and D will be prepared under separate cover at a
future date. In the process of conducting the feasibility study, the City of Cupertino indicated
their intent to prepare a master plan for all of the publicly owned open space lands along the
Stevens Creek corridor. As a result, the trail alignment will be integrated into this
comprehensive master plan and evaluated through the environmental documentation prepared
for this project.
Recommendations
1) Feasibility Report
Forward the Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Report with revisions to Parks and
Recreation Commission, Planning Commission and City Council with the following
recommendations:
1)
2)
3)
Recommend that the Blackberry Farm master plan process consider changes to the
park operation and/or design that would permit the trail alignment in this area to move
closer to the creek and be integrated within the park setting as opposed to isolated
from the fee use areas. The Task Force was challenged to recommend a design that fit
the character of the park under the current operating system.
Recommend that alternative all-weather surfaces to a paved asphalt pathway that are
just now becoming available on the market such as pine tar be fully investigated for
use in Study Areas C and D between McClellan Road and Stevens Creek Boulevard.
The investigation would include environmental consideration, durability of surface
and long term maintenance costs.
Recommend that the environmental review for Study Areas B, C and D from Linda
Vista Park to Stevens Creek Boulevard be incorporated into the environmental
documentation that will be prepared during the master plan process.
JS: Cupedino/SCT/Repod Recommendations Page 2
City of Cupertino
Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Study
4) Recommend that the environmental review for Study Area B from Linda Vista Park
to Stevens Creek County Park continue on course as an element of the environmental
review being conducted for Canyon Heights Academy, the private development
project proposed on the site.
5) Recommend that the City work with the County to initiate the development of the
trails in Study Area A upon completion of the environmental review process.
g:\parks and recreation admin~stevens creek trail~reports~p&r comra recommendations 071502
mp
JS: Cupedino/SCT/Report Recommendations Page 3
City of Cupertino
Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Study
Parks and Recreation Commission
Feasibility Report Recommendations
The Stevens Creek Trail Task Force convened and held community meet'mgs throughout
2001. During the year, the Task Force made recommendations on trail alignments and
features within the four study areas evaluated during the course of the Stevens Creek Trail
Feasibility Study. This document briefly summarizes the trail alignmems and amenities
described in the Draft Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Report and identifies recommended
actions for consideration by the Task Force on June 18, 2002. The four study areas included:
Study Area A
Rancho San Antonio County Park to Stevens Creek Boulevard
Study Area B
Stevens Creek County Park to Linda Vista Park
Study Area C
Linda Vista Park through McClellan Ranch to Blackberry Farm
Study Area D
McClellan Ranch through Blackberry Farm to Stevens Creek Boulevard
This feasibility study concluded that 7.70 miles of off-street trails and on-street bicycle and
pedestrian facilities could be developed within the four study areas. A trail is proposed
approximately parallel to Stevens Creek for 3.30 miles from Stevens Creek County Park to
Stevens Creek Boulevard through Study Areas B, C and D. The trail type and surface was
influenced by the topography of each study area and by public sentiment regarding trail
development. This route will provide both a 1.30-mile single-track trail for hikers and
motmtain bicyclists in Study Area B and 1.00-mile all weather, multi-use trail for walkers,
joggers, strollers, bicyclists and in-line skaters in Study Areas C and D.
A variety of trail types and surfaces totaling 3.15 miles are proposed to serve equestrians,
hikers and bicyclists through the open space lands adjacent to Rancho San Antonio County
Park in Study Area A. An approximately 1.65-mile soft surface, multi-use trail will serve
hikers and equestrians. A 1.50-mile ail weather, multi-use trail will provide a route for.
walkers, joggers, strollers, bicyclists and in-line skaters. An equestrian trail will parallel this
mute and will link Whispering Creek Stables to Rancho San Antonio County Park. The all
weather, multi-use trail will extend from the auto circle on Cristo Rey Drive through the open
space lands to Stevens Creek Boulevard to provide a connection to Study Areas B, C and D.
These two locations in which trails are proposed, the open space lands (Study Area A) and
the creek corridor setting (Study Areas B, C and D), will be connected using bicycle lanes
and the associated sidewalks on city streets for 1.25 miles. These on-street segments link
JS: Cupertino/SCT/Repod Recommendations Page 1
10300 Tone Avenue
Cupertino, C~llfornia 95014
RESOLUTION No. 6152
CP-2002-03
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF CUPERTINO
FINDING ~ TRAIL NI/t-WORK ALONG STEVENS CREEK AND IN OAK VALLEY
CONSISTENT WITH ~ CITY OF CUPERTINO GENERAL PLAN
SECTION I: PROIECT DESCRIPTION
Application No.:
Applicant:
Location:
CP-2002-03 (EA-2002-07)
City of Cupertino (Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Study)
From Rancho San Antonio County Park area, through Blackberry
Farm, McClellan Ranch, Linda Vista Park and Stevens Creek
Qua=y.
SECTION II: FINDINGS
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Cupertino received the Stevens
Creek Trail Feasibility Study, as described in Section I of this Resolution; and
WHEREAS, the necessary public notices have been given as required by the Procedural
Ordinances of the City of Cupertino, and the Planning Commission has held at l~.~t one
public hearing in regard to the application; and
WHEREAS, the applicant has met the burden of proof required to support said
application;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:
That after care/al consideration of maps, facts, exhibits, testimony and other evidence
submitted in this matter, the Planning Commission finds in accordance with CIVIC,,,
Section 19.68.040 B, that application CP-2002-03 is.consistent with the City of Cupertino's
General Plan.
That the subconclusions upon which the findings and conditions specified in this
Resolution are based and contained in the Public Hearing record conc~-:6ng
Application CP-2002-03 (EA-2002-07) as set forth in the Minutes of Planning
Commission Meeting of August 26, 2002, and are incorporated by reference as though
fully set forth herein.
P~solution No. 6152 CP-2002-03 August 26, 2002
Page 2
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 26th day of August 2002, at a Regular Meeting of the
Planning Commission of the City Of Cupertino by the following roll call vote:
AYF. S:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
COMMISSIONERS: Chen, Saadati, Wong and Cha/rperson Corr
COMMISSIONERS: Auerbach
COMMISSIONERS:
COMMISSIONERS:
APPROVED:
/ s/Steve Piasecki
Steve piaSecki
DJ.rector of Comxnunity Development
/s/Charles Corr
Charles Corr, Chairperson
Cupertino Planning Commission
g:/planningJpdreport/res/CP-2002-03 res
CP-2002-03
CITY OF CUPERTINO
10300 Torte Avenue
Cupertino, c'~lifomia 95014
P. FE~LUTION NO. 6153 0VlINI/I~ ORDER)
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF 'II-IH CITY OF CUPERTINO
RECOMMENDING THAT ~ PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
INCORPORATE THE RECOMMENDED COMMENTS AND INFORMATION INTO
THE PREPRINT "FINAL" DRAFT PRIOR TO CONSIDERATION OF THE C1TY
COUNCIL
SECTION I: PROIECT DESCRIPTION
Application No.:
Applicant
Location:
CP-2002-/B (F_A-2002-07)
City of Cup~ano (Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility Study)
From Rancho San Antonio County Park area, through
Blackberry Farm, McClellan Ranch, Linda Vista Park and Stevens
Creek County Park
SECTION II: MINGS
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission reviewed the Stevens Creek Trail Feasibility
Study for conformance to the general plan, and evaluated the Environmental
Assessment of Study A area of the study; and
Whereas, the Planning Commission accepts that a Stevens ~ Trail is feasible and
generally consistent with the Cupertino General Plan; and
Whereas, the Planning Commission has a compelling illterest in the development of
tn'nils in the community and wishes to provide additional comments for the City
Council and Parks and Recreation Commission:
NOW, THER]~ORE, BE II' RESOLVED:
That the Parks and Recreation Conunission incorporate the following comments and
information into the preprint"final" draft prior to consideration by the City Council:
The nature of the mandate for the feasibility study should be sated.
The fea/bility critr~ia and optioml alignments studied should b~ identified.
The plan should include a definitions section to include the meanings of such
words as "trail," "urban-trail," "open-space," and "preserve" and eSlr~i~lly any
4. Include a statement in the executive summary that states: the precise
alignment, trail widths and surface rnatarlal~ identified ~or Study Areas B, C
and D will be reviewed for consistency with specific General Plan policies
relating to preservation of natural habitats and protection of riparian
corridors in conjunction with the CEQA review for those areas.
5. Low impact trail alignments can and should be fashioned to more closely
follow the course of Stevens Creek in Study Areas B, C and D. It may be
preferable to separate trail uses by promoting walking paths closer to the
creek in Study Areas B and D (as exists in Study Area C-McClellan Ranch).
The specific alil~rnents in the Feasibility Study should not be accepted for
these areas, pending completion of more dei-~led analysis of the Blackberry
6. The Blackberry Farm Master Plan process should include broad public
', participation.
7. "The spec/tic alignment of Study Area C should be developed in conjunction
with a speci~'c development plan for the former quarry site. The boardwalk
alternative in Study Area C should be reconsidered.
8. The trail must be balanced against other policies of the Cupertino General
Plan to protect riparian areas and wi]~lli~e corridors, including policies; 2-52,
2-66, 2-74, 4-9, 5-18, 5-19, 5-20, 5-24, 5-28,5-39, 5-41, 5-42 and ~= Il.
9. The recreational value to the residents of Cupertino of a Stevens Creek Trail
may be of greater value than the preservation of some existing income
generating uses.
10. The preeminent goal should be to preserve and restore the riparian corridor
of the Stevens Creek for the enjoyment of trail users and as habitat for wildlife
as stated on Page 6 of the Feasibility Study.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 26m day of August 2002 at a Regular Meeting of the
Planning Commission of the City of Cupertino, State of California, by the following roll
call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
COMMISSIONERS: Auerbach, Chen, Saadati, Wong and Chairperson Corr
COMMISSIONERS:
COMMISSIONERS:
COMIviISSIO~:
APPROVED:
/s/Steve Piasecki
Steve Piasecki
Director of Community Development
/s/Charles Corr
Charles Corr, Cb~i~parson
Planning Commission
G: \ Planning \ PD REPORT\ RES ~ C.P-2002.0~, rainorder res.doc
CITY OF CUPERTINO
10300 Torte Avenue
Cupertino, California 95014
MINUTE ORDER
OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
RECOMMENDING APPROVAL OF THE STEVENS CREEK TRAIL FEASIBILITY
STUDY TO THE CUPERTINO CITY COUNCIL
WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed the Stevens Creek Trail
Feasibility Study and took public comment on July 11, 2002, and
WHEREAS, the Commission accepted the recommendations of the Stevens Creek Trail
Task Force with minor amendment (recommendation attached), and referred the document to the
Planning Commission for review of General Plan consistency and environmental document
review, and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission reviewed the feasibility study and
recommendations from the Task Force and Parks and Recreation Commission on August 26,
2002, and found the project to be in conformance with the General Plan and recommended the
environmental document for approval by the City Council, and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Municipal Code section 19.68.040, the Parks and Recreation
Commission must forward the Planning Commission recommendations to the City Council, and
WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Commission, at its meeting of September 5, 2002,
reviewed the Planning Commission's findings and now forwards the Planning Commission's
Resolutions 6152 and 6153 (Minute Order) to the City Council.
The Parks and Recreation Commission further recommends the following to the City Council:
Acknowledgement of the testimony the Task Force heard in over twenty meetings in
preparation of the feasibility study
Support of the many compromises crafted during the public process
· Acknowledgement that while some sections of the trail, as proposed in the feasibility
study, may be difficult or expensive to construct (such as the proposed boardwalk
adjacent to the haul road), these alignments were bom of much public discussion and
compromise, and the commission supports the compromises made during this effort
Support the recommendations 0fthe feasibility report that "The Blackberry Farm Master
Plan process consider changes to park operation and/or design that would permit the trail
alignment to move closer to the creek and be integrated within the park setting as
proposed to isolated from the fee-use area."
Parks and Recreation Commission
Minute Order of September 19, 2002
Page 2 of 2
· Acknowledge that the Task Fome was challenged to recommend a design within
Blackberry Farm that fit the character of the park while under the current entry fee
operating system
· Establish a Council goal for the coming year of conducting a public process to develop a
transition plan for the use of Blackberry Farm that encourages year-round use of the
facility by the community, while maintaining a revenue stream
· Move forward with plans to fund and construct Stevens Creek Trail in Study Area A
PASSED AND ADOPTED the 19th day of September 2002 at a special meeting of the
Parks and Recreation Commission of the City of Cupertino by the following:
AYES: Peng, Jelinch, Wang
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: Brown
ABSENT: Bradford
ATTEST:
APPROVED:
/s/Therese Ambrosi Smith
Therese Ambrosi Smith, Director
Parks and Recreation Department
/s/Roger Peng
Roger Peng, Chairperson
Parks and Recreation Commission
g:\parks and recreation admin\commission~minute order set.doc