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Home My WebLink About12-02-1981 Staff reportr �J -t —A" APPROVED 12/2/81 BY CITY COUNCIL. o 2.ti Deputy ity C er 9 919T QT REPORT TO MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL DATE: 11/30/81 COUNCIL MEETING: 12/ 2/81 SUBJECT: "Draft" General Plan and Proposed Review Schedule Attached for your information is a copy of the "Draft" General Plan proposed by the General Plan Citizens Advisory Committee. The report will now be forwarded to the Planning Commission to start the formal process of conducting the required public hearings. Before the first public hearing in January, I would like to suggest that the City Council agree to the following schedule for hearing the General Plan. - On or before January 12, 1982 - joint session of Planning Commission and G.P.C.A.C., work session (City Council) - January 19, 1982 - Planning Commission Committee -of -the Whole session - January 27, February 10 & 24, Public Hearings -- Planning Commission - February 2 and 16, Committee -of- the -Whole if necessary - February 23 and March 9 & 23, Committee -of- the -Whole - City Council, if necessary - March 3, 17, 31* - Public Hearings - City Council with adoption March 31, 1982. Staff is recommending that the City adopt the following schedule, so staff can submit a single quarter page add to the Saratoga newspaper by early January with all of the dates scheduled for the General Plan Review. Should either the Planning Commission or City Council need an additional meeting between regular meetings, then there could be a Regular Adjourned Meeting. Under the proposed schedule, the Planning Commission would trans - mit the General Plan to the Council on March 3, and the Council would approve the General Plan in late March. Fifth week "Draft" General Plan Schedule November 30, 1981 Page 2 Whatever the final schedule, staff would recommend the City j Council identify a final date for adoption of the General Plan. A Submitted by J. Wayne ,gernetz R S. obin-son, Jr. RSR /mgr Attachment _ '�e"•`Y�r�. :l:' a�/r ��4'�`'•,t�-�F� �,'�;�Vy;S�;:rt2�ri: �C��a4 �� lit; �, r. �; �`,; �: vi=^ �+: w. oc :�a%ia+J�ie�S^.H.G'%rie•'•:o5± PUBLIC N �TICE THE CITY OF SArZATOGA ANNOUNCES THE FOLLOWING PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULE FOR Af`'E'NDiMgTS TO THE 1974 GENERAL PLA q. PLANNING CU4MJSSION /CITY COUNCIL and GENERAL PLAN CITIZENS ADVISORY OJi MIT'TEE - - Joint Study Session January 12, 1982 - 7 :30 p.m. PLANNING COMl+JSSION - - Public Hearing January 27, 1982 - 7:30 p.m. February 10, 1982 - 7:30 p.m. February 24, 1982 - 7:30 p.m. PLANNING MIMISSION - - Study Sessions January 19, 1982 --7:30 p.m. February 2, 1982 - 7 :30 p.m. February 16, 1582 - 7:30 p.m. CITY COUNCIL - - Public Hearing March 3, 1982 - 8:00 p.m. March 17, 1982 - 8:00 p.m. March 31, 1982 - 8:00 p.m. CITY COUNCIL - - Study Sessions February 23, 1982 - 7 :30 p.m. March 9, 1982 - 7:30 p.m. March 23, 1982 - 7:30 p.m. - ALL PUBLIC IM2INGS ARE HELD ON WEDNESDAY AT TFIE CITY COUNCIL Cf11%%1BERS LOCATED at 13777 FRUITVALE AVENUE. - ALL STUDY SESSIONS ARE HELD ON TUESDAY AT TIM CU-2 f[NITY CEN7F -R �,EEPID'.G ROOM LCCATED AT 19655 AIMIDALE AVENUE. Di c to `o Planning & Policy Analysis 2. a 1 RV \!9 4 SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL TIME: Tuesday, January 12, 1982 - 7:30 p.m. PLACE: Meeting Room, Saratoga Community Center, 19655 Allendale TYPE: Committee of the Whole CLOSED SESSION - Personnel Matters - 6:00 p.m. Conference Room, City Hall COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Joint Session of Planning Cowdssion and City Council to discuss Draft General Plan e 3 K e o e e 13777 FRUITVALE AVENUE SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA 95070 (408) 887 -3438 !V1 E IVIO R A N D �1 tiI TO: City Council, Planning Commission and DATE: January 8, 1982 General Plan Citizens Advisory Committee FROM: Director of Planning and Policy Analysis SUBJECT: January 12th Joint Meeting - 7:30 p.m. Staff would suggest that the Council concentrate on the Goals and Policies section of the Draft General Plan. The Goals and Policies are the essential part of the General Plan and will form the guidelines for future development. Staff would recommend that the City Council give direction to the Planning Commission f'egarding the Goals and Policies as submitted. Comments: The pink sheets are further comments from the G.P.C.A.C, and should be included with the ^vL n1 -- RSR /mgr J rAL,.y, L 13777 FRUITVALE AVENUE SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA 95070 (408) 867 -3438 MEMORANDU�V1 TO: Planning Commission DATE: December 21, 1981 FROM: Director of Planning & Policy Analysis SUBJECT: Phone Conversation with Greg Nellis on December 10th --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Area L is interested in preserving Quito Road as a heritage lane from approximately Saratoga -Los Gatos Road to Pollard Road. No major improvements (street widening) to Quito Road from Saratoga Avenue to Pollard Road. t r S. R binson, Jr. RSR /mgr r �9ryN /NC p ,� � o,�oy ',901 2 0621 Canyon View Dr. AN9�yi%s Saratoga, CA 95070 15 December 1981 Mr. R. S. Robinson. jr. Dir. Planning & Policy Analysis City of Saratoga 1.777 Fruitvale Av. Saratoga, CA 95070 Dear Rob, Thank you for your memory jogger. I had meant to write this and g- et it to you and Mike promptly after our last meeting, but got sidetracked on other things. In general, I see no M what I prepared. The for your consideration; 1. Name Area B name should be the name for area A. ajor differences between the staff document and following COMMWts on the staff document are s Congress Springs - Pierce Road. Mt. Eden is 2. Page 2, second paragraph.. Residents feel that there has been a CC`NTINUING increase in traffic through the neighborhoods and that it IS the result of hillside, development and that this traffic r S Ls Inr residential streets. The rewritten version seems to indicate a FUTURE PROBLEM while people believe a CONTINUING PROBLEM. I believe the original wording is more correct. 3. Page 3, first paragraphs fourth line. If the s and its following comma is removed from holidays, the meaning is as originally intended. The problem is particularly severe on holdiay weekends. Not all holidays, but particularly Christmas holiday weekends when the illegal tree sales take place in the county without proper use permits... Why don't we protest that or do they get grandfathered in under some ancient agricultural use? ". Page ?, second paragraph. I like your addition here, good thinking! Perhaps you and Mire can consider these items. I still think you should he complimented for your work. THANK YOU! _ Sincerely, Jax� Ian A. Webb Area P Representative Note: This General Plan expresses the interests and desires of the citizens living in Kentfield. This report should take precedence over all other planning recommendations which may be offered. By _following our report the Saratoga Planning Commission and City Council have the greatest opportunity for meeting the goals of the people-living in Kentfield. Signed, Link Bradley To: ._T;, C0',:_C11 �f:._. L1allnll Cc':I!!isSloYl From -,.a th.y c1d2.-ick tie: Ca�n „e:� �'rc_:.1 cri.-iral blue 'i.o ;oldehrod s:1ee ts of the -�eld.en.rod, line 8, r:lentiol: i3 made, of the areals 2 centers vahereas, I nac? ,lenticned the city's, 5 shopping oer_ters. I think it is ii.iiortant to retain -1J Nordix-,; in ii-t ?t of Lbe ca,muiative e” ect of any more commercial st111,tp ,iY'd centers in this cit and not just in my area. In other ;vords, does a city the size of SaratO,;a reall;; need another sh,«Lpping center ? i ia:-e 2, �o- Ldenrod, lire 1, mentions poor !maintenance and d,raina„e - roble:'_s. Lire. 7, and lire '3, s -ay, the result alas been coLlsidera1�lE' 1.lSi`�hborhOOd 1C1j,rQVPi!1eI t and a sti,1ulus to private i,iprovement as well. 11 C-ne mi.Iht be le.d to believe, from the :va•y this is !1:-itte , that lines 6-7 also rlodify line 1. Hovevor, this is net the case. street. a. o b1 in,pro�.ed. tcor, malr. enance and dradnat�e problems are not c nsidera T ;Ciro on page 2, the new office comple_ on the corner of Cow and 1�a.seo Iresada has teen omitted. lain, the cumulative effect of all the recent davelopme?lt in our area is very important to our residents. and I would like to. see this mentiovied in the "ene_al plan. IY; carversa.tia- ':rith !sre- f;ellis, re. 1.a�e 3, ;oldenrod, lil:e 14, he felt that the word "upgraded" mi,;bt be misinterpreted to mean vvid:ened. Our area would lice to see the road improved as it is. We cio not feel that enlarging the road ;vill help the t2- ffia r.?'o'hlem but ; ;ould instead ero,aurage more traffic and more _problems. I om not opi osed to makinc the part of .,� uido '- ^om 1'olla.rd to :;ara.. -Ia.s. Ed. into a. Heri t: ! • e Lane. jsl: oth bodies to rICa.GP reed t.)e rc:tlol ,'lan ltei!1C 13_ the i iUC --nin ,in idea of the thlrkili: O= o':r 1 ;-:o,.dd also 17.!:e to !:,Id F �r f fL1I1d.1: S!iCh S lI( �t�, asse.3Si,ient _iSU- L "LC,t aS iC 1 i , v 16C ^,. jot �.e11_'oC', Ut e Ct) ._ _ o T _'.0 t ;., 1J' -l�t� �e .1:1`(2:il;i� _te'il COI' ?'C.BC ".8.y a•nal l ?, .,nom iutu2e ?Xi.anSlOi o.L e icsti _; de'f11_opmeIlts �1:- �ul'_ld?' 4� ,:.[1GrCla11 Stlall ?'etllile USe ,,er,.it !,y- Tile i;121111ill, C01.11ais. ion. ln'iu± (cleft a.rccl h011 @0t "!Yl?rS. A G E N D A GENERAL PLAN CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE Date: Thursday, December 3, 1981 - 7:30 p.m. Place: Community Center Meeting Room I. Discussion -of General Plan Presentation Format to City Council II. Adjournment r it 13777 FRUITVALE AVENUE SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA 95070 (408) 867 -3438 i11EMOO RANDl1��1 TO: General Plan Citizens Advisory DATE: Committee FROM: Director of Planning & Policy Analysis SUBJECT: Saratoga General Plan Review November 25 1981 This report is the culmination of many months of work by.the General Plan Citizens Advisory Committee (G.P.C.A.C.). It contains the report on citizen participation in planning area outreach meetings and the planning area responses to the questions listed on the questionnaires distributed at those meetings • The 1974 Goals and Policies are listed side by side with the 1981 Goals andJPolicies developed by the G.P.C.A.C. between August and October. Goals and Policies have been cross referenced to indicate how they are related. Planning Area Descriptions and Action Programs as originally submitted by each planning area representative have been reproduced on blue paper. Proposed staff revisions to the Planning Area Descriptions and Action Programs have been reproduced on a gold paper to facilitate comparison. Staff revised the proposed descriptions and action programs by updating portions of the descriptions that were left undone, editing comments that appeared to be speculative, and editing portions that were inconsistent with the City- wide goals and policies adopted by the G.P.C.A.C. Also, normal typographic or grammatical editing was done. The Report will be submitted to the City Council in December. The G.P.C.A.C. will need to determine if it wishes to make a presentation to the City Council on this report. S. Robinson, Jr. RSR /mgr 1 s T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S I. Memo to General Plan Citizens Advisory Committee II. Initial Citizen Participation III. General Plan Goals IV. General Plan Policies V. Planning Area Descriptions and Action Programs (Blue.) VI. Proposed Staff Revisions to Planning Area Descriptions and Action Programs (Gold) VII. Summary of Goals, Policies and Action Programs of the Northwestern Hillside Specific Plan, June 2, 1981 Rev I s ecL - I�iovem�e� IggJ S A R A T 0 G A G E N E R A L P L A N R E V I E W INITIAL CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLANNING AREA OUTREACH MEETINGS RESPONSE TO QUESTIONNAIRES SA.RATOGA GENERAL PLAN REVIEW INITIAL CITIZEN PARTICIPATION The General Plan Citizens Advisory Committee held a series of twelve neighborhood outreach meetings, one for *each of the plan- ning areas identified -for the 1,981 General Plan. The meetings were widely publicized through direct mailings, flier distribution., newspaper articles, public notices, and the cooperation of several civic organizations and schools. The meetings were located, when possible, in facilities within the planning areas. (See copy of schedule on following page.) Each meeting was conducted by the member of the Citizens Advisory Committee who represented the area; also attending as resource people were members,of the Planning staff, City Council, Planning Commission, and Parks and Recreation Commission. Deducting the multiple attendance at several meetings by the resource people, it is estimated that over 650 people attended the twelve meetings. c The ,Citizens Advisory Committee prepared a questionnaire which was the focus of discussion at the meetings. The questionnaire was designed to solicit community views on a number of identified issues critical to Saratoga's future and also to draw.out concerns that the committee may not have presupposed. (See copy of question- naire, following.) Notes were taken of the oral comments, and attendees were also encouraged to turn in their completed questionnaires. Questionnaires were publicized as available at City Hall and other public locations for citizens unable to attend a meeting. Following the meetings, each committee member compiled the response from hi.s /her planning area, assembling oral and written comments, and developing a sense of majority and minority views in the area. The next step in the process was the further compilation by the total Citizens Advisory Committee of the responses from all twelve areas. The balance of this section of the report is the Committee's product. This community input has provided direction to assist the Committee in developing its recommendations for amendment of the General Plan objectives; policies, and programs. There were ten areas in the 1974 General Plan Report. Area K (Sunland Park) was annexed in February 1981, and Area F was divided into Kentfield and Quito Segments. The City Council, on October 7, 1981, officially separated Area F. - 1 - PLANNING AREA MEETINGS GENERAL PLAN CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE AREA I DATE K - Sunland Park Friday March 27 J.- The Village (from Saratoga Creek to Monday Aloha Avenue) March 30 G - Fruitvale - Sobey Road Monday March 30 B - Congress Springs - Pierce Road Tuesday March 31 F - Kentfield (from Fruitvale to S. P. Thursday tracks) April 2 C - Blue Hills (from Fremont H.S.D. Thursday property to West Valley Corridor) April 2 F - Quito (east of S. P. tracks) Thursday April 9 H - Fruitvale West Thursday April 9 I - Glen Una Monday April 20 A - Mt. Eden (west of Pierce to City Monday limits) April 20 0 - Triangle North Thursday April 23 E - Triangle South Thursday April 23 TIME /PLACE 7:00 p.m. Community Center Allendale Avenue 7:30 p.m. Saratoga School Cafeteria 14592 Oak Street 7:30 p.m. Redwood School Library 13925 Fruitvale Avenue 7:30 p.m. Foothill School Cafeteria 1.3919 Lynde Avenue 7:30 p.m. Redwood School Library 13925 Fruitvale Avenue 7:30 p.m. Blue Hills School Media Area 12300 De Sanka Avenue 7:30 p.m. Westhope Presbyterian Church Social Hall 12850 Saratoga Avenue 7:30 p.m. Redwood School Library 13925 Fruitvale Avenue 7:30 p.m. Saratoga School Cafeteria 14592 Oak Street 8:00 p.m. Foothill School Cafeteria 13919 Lynde Avenue 7:30 p.m. Ascension Church Parish Center Miller at Prospect 7 :30.p.m. Saratoga High School Cafeteria 20360 Herriman ( You Care Abo t �AKA�I'OO GA? WHAT SHOULD SARATOGA DO ABOUT: - AFFORDABLE HOUSING? - SURPLUS SCHOOL SITES ": - THE WEST VALLEY CORRIDOR? e' - THE VILLAGE? - AUTOMOBILE CIRCULATION AND OTHER MEANS OF TRANSPORTATION? p - THE VACANT PARCELS OF LAND I'N THE CITY WHICH AREN'T YET DEVELOPED? - GENERATING ENOUGH REVENUE TO PROVIDE THE SERVICES YOU NEED? - ANNEXATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF ADJACENT COUNTY LAND? Your City Council wants you to take part in a review of the General Plan which guides the future of Saratoga. Our current General Plan was adopted in 1974. Does it still meet the needs of our community? Are you satisfied with the way Saratoga has grown? Do we need to set some new goals? The Council has appointed a Ci.tizens Advisory Committee whose main task is to find out what you, the residents of Saratoga, think of your City. The Committee is holding neighborhood meetings throughout Saratoga and wants you to come. A schedule and map appear on the reverse side. If you cannot attend the meeting in your area, you are welcome at any other. If you want to participate, 'but can't attend a meeting, you may obtain a questionnaire at City Hall, the Community and Village Libraries, your fire station, or call 867- 3438. - 3 - WHAT'S YOUR OPINION? -A QUESTIONNAIRE FROM THE SARATOGA GENERAL PLAN CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE'- FHE ISSUES RAISED IN THESE QUESTIONS PROVIDE THE FRAMEWORK FOR THIS EVEN - ING'S DISCUSSION. I'F YOU PREFER, YOU MAY WRITE YOUR COMMENTS ON THIS 'APER AND TURN IT IN AT THE MEETING'S CLOSE OR MAIL IT TO YOUR AREA ZEPRESENTATIVE OR THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT, CITY OF SARATOGA, 13777 FRUIT - IALE AVENUE, SARATOGA, CA 950'70 1. What positions should Saratoga take on housing alternatives? (multi -unit, condominiums, subsidized, senior citizen, higher- density, etc.) 2 3. Can you suggest future uses for schools which may close due to declining enrollment? What should be done with the West Valley Corridor? (auto traffic, public transit, trails and pathways, linear park, housing, etc.) 4. Are transportation and circulation needs being met? (autos, public transit, emergency vehicles, trails and pathways, etc.) 5. What would make the Village area a better place to operate a business, to work, to shop, and to live? 6. Are there revenue- producing land uses which you feel the city should con - sider? ( "think- tanks ", co -op wineries, artisan center,hotel /bed and :....,.::..•:,:. breakfast facilities, wholesale nurseries, dinner theater, etc.) fir. Js: tiN� x 7. The city is evaluating our remaining parcels of vacant land in terms of future land use. Suggest what uses are proper for such sites in your area. (Are you willing to support additional publicly owned open space and recreational uses ?) - 4 - Page 2 8. Should the city encourage annexation and development of adjacent county lands? 9. Does the character of present development in Saratoga give adequate atten- tion to conservation of open.space? of historic features? of "heritage lanes"? of other physical characteristics you think are important to Saratoga? 10. Other comments or concerns. 11. Would you be interested in being an active participant in this ongoing General Plan review process? DATE THE PLANNING AREA IN WHICH YOU RESIDE YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS THANK YOU Question #1. What positions should Saratoga take on housing alternatives? (multi -unit, condominiums, sub- sidize ,_ senior citizen, higher - density, etc.) The committee reviewed the discussion which occurred at the area meetings, and the comments expressed on the questionaires, relative to question #1. An effort was made to organize the responses by type of housing alternative and to identify con- sensus. Minority statements, unless expressed in several areas, are generally not reported. 1. Single Family Detached, on Conventional Lots: There is clear support citywide for continuation of the present type of housing. Undeveloped sites zoned for single family residential should remain so designated. Residents of Areas B and G recommended, respectively, that the lands of the Horticultural Foundation and the I.O.O.F. "shall -be developed as single family detached, if the present open space were to be developed. 2. Single Family Detached, Clustered to Preserve Open Space:. The majority of participants did not respond to this housing type. A minority thought that the clustered housing concept used to preserve open space should be investigated;-it should not be coupled with increased density, however. 3. Single Family Attached: Defined as duplexes or patio homes, where discussed there was general disaproval. 4. Condominiums in General: A mixed vote seemed to devel61D on.this issue. However, some support did exist in many areas for luxury style. condominiums. In fact, if the description "luxury" were applied, some "areas said a majority would approve. Three planning areas (A, F W and G) rejected the concept -of condominium development and are opposed to the construction of condominiums'in their areas. The concept was acceptable in area.Fp only if the units are for senior citizens. Condominiums were favored in the.Village area (J). 5. Rental.Apartmerits 'in.Gene.ral: Support is limited to the Village area. A minority in areas D and E favored more rentals for senior citi.ze.ns, 6 6. Senior Citizen Housinq: There is qualified support for market -rate housing for seniors. Areas favorable to senior citizen housing are Area J (the Village.) and Area F (Quito) . Area Fk(L) opposes construction of senior citizen housing in that area. There is support in Areas ,F and J for a, partial or full -care facility for seniors ?common dining, on -site nursing, etc.) 7. Government- Subsidized.Units: All areas oppose subsidized housing, with the following exceptions: A. Area F will support subsidized units for senior citizens only; B. Areas C and E will support utilization of school sites for senior citizen housing. In most areas, the Saratoga Housing Assistance and Rehabil- itation Program (SHARP) was :not discussed. Question #2. Can you suggest future uses for schools which may close due to declining enrollment? The majority of responses to this question supported preserva- tion of the school buildings, and properties by the school districts. The Community recognizes that the school districts must use their resources to the optimum and that income must be produced by the surplus school sites: The City must work with.each school district in developing plans beneficial to all parties concerned. (There was a strong expression from residents of Area I to keep Saratoga School on Oak Street-open as a public elementary school.) Leasing of the surplus schools was the most obvious alternative discussed. Suggestions for potential "lessees were those that would allow maintenance of the community, recreational, and open space -features of the property, e.g., private schools, community center; artisan center, and other comparable uses. Leasing to private businesses for office space, storage, research and - 7 - development functions, etc., was also favored, if performance standards were applied to prevent. adverse traffic, noise, or other environmental impacts. Area D expressed concern that the uses of surplus schools be carefully monitored. The minority view was expressed in areas A, B, C and E that conversion of the school buildings to rental housing for seniors would be appropriate. It was pointed out that leasing part of the same site to some kind of child -care facility could provide benefits to both the young and elderly age groups. A majority in area E favored keeping the land in public owner- ship, but felt new residential development could be a viable interim use, depending on the terms of the lease. Some responses acknowledged that the financial condition of the school districts would necessitate the sale of some surplus sites. There were expressions of willingness to tax themselves for open space acquisition in planning areas C and FQ. If the public ownership were not possible, support for sale of the property for residential development consistent with the surrounding neighborhood was expressed. A minority in area D favored condominiums for seniors. If a school site which is the primary open space resource for the surrounding neighborhood is to be sold, consideration should be given to requiring as:a condition of approval that the de- veloper of the subsequent subdivision contribute a portion to . the City for a park or public open space use. uestion #3. at should be done with the West Valley Corridor? uto traffic, public transit, trails and athwa s, near park. housing. etc. The Community voiced strong opinions on all s -ides of this issue. The General Plan Committee has compiled the input received, but may not be able to reconcile it to a single concensus. The data is summarized here. Respondents in several planning areas (A,. B, C, E, H, and J) supported preservation of the corridor for eventual auto use. Majority support for freeway use was expressed in areas A, B, C, E, and H. Residents of areas A, E, and H also supported the alternative of an expressway or parkway (preferably with the landscaped appearance of Foothill Expressway in Los Altos.) A majority in areas H and J, and a minority in areas A and K, also approved of a multi. - model use of the corridor, specifically the light rail and auto combination. Related to this concept, - 8 - areas A and J also spoke to the importance of preserving the full width of the corridor. Light rail, in lieu of auto traffic, was.favored by a majority in area K and a minority in areas A, C, D, and FK(L) Areas expressing majority opposition to auto traffic use in the corridor were G, D; FK(L), FQ, and K. Minori.ties -in Areas A, B, and C were opposed to either the freeway use or to auto use in general. Favoring the following alternative uses in lieu of auto use were: Use linear park trails, pathways., bike paths Majority Minority D, FK(L) A, C, FQ, H, K A, C, FQ, ('L) , H, K housing FK(L) A, D, H, G Area I, did not take a posLtion on the. West Valley Corridor:. .. There was no reporting as to means of °financing these uses. Question #4. Are transportation and circulation needs being met? (Autos, public transit, emergency vehicles, trails and pathways, etc.) Almost all planning areas reported a strong request for improved public transit,.speaking to more frequent service and changes in routing. Minibus service to connect neighborhoods with the Village was advocated. Areas C, I, and J had majorities express a need for either additional, improved, or safes bicycle lanes. A minority in area FK(L) doncurred. Implementation of the Trails and Pathways-Plan was called for by majorities in areas. A, C, E, FQ, and J. Some support was also expressed in areas B and FK(L). A safe crossing on Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road to serve Argonaut Shopping Center and Argonaut School was a major concern of areas B and E. A majority favored installation of a traffic light at Blauer, a minority at Brandywine. Both areas pointed out that completion of the West Valley Corridor might ,improve the traffic conditions on Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road. Planning Area A opposed additional east -west connecting roads in that area, contending these would adversely affect areas B and C as-well. Pierce Road was recommended for designation as a heritage lane in order to retain its present character. - 9 - Complaints concerning the inadequacy of traffic circulation were noted about the following streets: Big Basin Way and the entire Village area, Saratoga -Los Gatos Road, Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road, Saratoga Avenue, and the Quito area in general. Suggestions for traffic and circulation- related improvements in the Village have been summarized in the response to Question #5. The balance of responses to this question were planning area specific. These constituted suggestions for improved street maintenance and landscaping, the need for sidewalks and foot - paths,new turn lanes, rerouting of trucks and through traffic, additional traffic lights, and the removal of collector desig- nation and use from certain streets. It is recommended that these be evaluated during review of the circulation goals of the General Plan and the development of the action program for each planning area. Question #5. What would make the Village a better place to operate a business, to work, to shop, and to live? More parking was the overriding response of all who discussed this question. To improve the existing parking in the Village, citizens strongly advocated better lighting, more clearly- marked parking, and better access. Parking District #3 should be established. The general improvement of traffic circulation in the Village was widely called for. Residents of Planning Areas B and J urged a stop light at Fourth and Big Basin Way. Other minor suggestions included better traffic policing, provision of left turn lanes, a limit on through traffic, addit -ional crosswalks, and a proper controlled turn - around at the west end of Big Basin Way. A bus stop on Big Basin Way was recommended by Areas J and H. Mini -bus service to the Village from Saratoga neighborhoods was suggested by residents in Areas A, E, H, and J. With respect to the appearance of the Village, comments focused on preserving and promoting the "small town" atmosphere. That atmosphere could be enhanced by strict architectural standards, improved landscaping and maintenance, historic preservation measures, and amenities such as benches, kiosks, and creek vista points. - 10 - The economic viability of the Village would be strengthened if the City did not permit more competing shopping areas to be built elsewhere in Saratoga (a majority view of Planning Areas E, FQ and J). Area H favored provision of a full range of services in the Village; Area E called for more variety and diversity in land uses in the Village. A majority in Area E felt a department store would be desirable; minority suggestions for several other types of commercial uses were offered and noted. Saratoga School on Oak Street should be preserved, in an alternate use if not as a public school.. Residential opportunities in the Village are important. A majority in Area E and minorities in Areas A and D favored more condominiums; Area J concurred, suggesting allowing more intensity of development. Living units on second floors above shops should be allowed (majority - Area J; minority - Areas A and H). Note: The more detailed reporting of comments compiled by the committee during its work sessions will be reflected in the development of the new action program proposals for Planning Area J - the Village. Question #6. Are there revenue- producing land uses which you feel the City should consider? The majority of citizens responding seemed to accept the premise that the City could benefit from new revenue- producing land uses, but only if each proposed use was carefully evaluated. New uses should be compatible with the area's existing natural and built environment, should be designed with care, and have limited adverse impact (e.-g., noise, traffic, etc.). Commercial uses which respondents in several areas felt warranted consideration included: a "think tank," a cooperative winery, an artisan center, a hotel., bed and breakfast houses, wholesale. nurseries, and a dinner theater. Limited interest was expressed in other uses: light industry, professional offices, a depart- ment store, a cultural center, a commercial orchard. The appropriateness of these suggested uses for specific sites and planning areas will be determined as the General Plan Com- mittee develops its recommendations for vacant, under -used, and surplus properties throughout the City. It should be noted that there were a minority of citizens who expressed the belief that the City needed no new revenue - producing land uses. - 11 - Question #7. The City is evaluating our remaining parcels of vacant land in terms of future land use. Suggest what uses are proper for such sites in your area. (Are you willing to.support additional publicly owned open space and recreational uses ?) At each of the planning area meetings, a working map was displayed which indicated lands in Saratoga that are undeveloped or that have the potential for redevelopment to a different or more intensive land use. The information accompanying the map explained present ownership, size-of parcel, current general plan designation, and current zoning. The intent of the map was not to suggest that a change of land use was recommended or appropriate; rather, it has to point out that these are lands where a•s.ignificant change is possible and general plan.policies should either be reaffirmed or reconsidered.. Maps which focused on the lands within, or in proximity to, . the respective planning areas were projected at the several meetings, to stimulate discussion about the lands most rele- vant to the area residents. Approval of the existing general plan designations or suggestions for alternative uses were r� recorded_ Also noted were the plans of the property owners and the views of the City's Advisory Commissions where appropriate. Recommendations concerning some parcels are incorporated into responses to other Questions discussed herein (e.g., surplus schools, West valley corridor). Others will be factored into the final recommendations produced by the General Plan Committee for each planning area's action program. - 12 - Question #8. Should the.City encourage annexation and develop- ment of adjacent County lands? The majority view throughout most of the City (with the excep- tion of Planning Areas I and K) was opposition to further annexation and development of adjacent unincorporated lands. This view was premised on support for the existing constraints which County policies impose upon development of unincorporated hillside lands. Area E's expression of opposition to annexa- tion included the suggestion that the City reduce the size of the designated urban service area within its sphere-of influence, thus lessening its commitment to future City expansion. A minority view in Area FK(L) suggested the deannexation of undeveloped lands which exceeded a 15% slope. In some areas (A, B, C, D and G), qualifiers were added to the anti - annexation position, namely: annexation could be considered if it would improve the environment, if it would decrease the allowable density, if it would preserve open space, and if it would be at no cost to the City. Majorities in Planning Areas I and K were not opposed to annexa- tions, as long as the annexations did not impose additional expenses upon the City. Minorities.in Areas B, C, and G con- curred that if revenues exceeded costs, annexations should i� not be opposed. Question #9. Does the character of present development in Saratoga .Qive adequate attention to conservation of ... This question addressed a number of community features within it, and the reporting of the responses is grouped accordingly. Few respondents gave unqualified approval that the City government was assuring that adequate attention was devoted to conserving all which was valued about Saratoga. Rather, several shortcomings were pointed out. . open space? There should be more careful monitoring of existing open space to assure the preservation of that which gives Saratoga its rural residential.character. As an example, Areas A, B, and C were critical of the development and appearance along Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road, particularly at the Gateway and extending southward from Prospect Road to the railroad tracks. On a related issue, Area D was concerned about the impacts the development of the remaining open parcels along Saratoga Avenue would have upon its residential areas. Other areas spoke to the importance of maintaining or creating trails and pathways for enjoyment of open space (as well as improved pedestrian safety). The visibility - 13 - of large homes on the hillsides from the valley below was criticized. ... historic features? When discussed, conservation of historic resources was generally supported in concept. Specific comments referred to the Village and the maintenance of its smalltown atmosphere and quaintness. ... "heritaee lanes ?" The concept of preserving the rural character of Saratoga's older roads was generally endorsed. Although all Planning Areas did not single out the roads they would recommend for this designation, the following were suggested: Pierce, Sobey, Quito, Big Basin Way, Walnut, Alta Vista, Williams, and Victor Place. ... other physical characteristics you think are important to Saratoga? Features singled out here (and the areas from which they were reported) were: preserve the oak trees (A); encourage rehabili- tation of older homes (E); install a.-landscaped median and underground the utilities along Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road (C); landscape Fruitvale Avenue south of City Hall (G and H); con- sider the recommendation in the 1974 Village Plan to expand Blaney Plaza (J). uestion #10. Other Comments and concerns. The following is a reporting of a number of other issues that were brought to the General Plan Committee's attention through the meetings and questionnaires. No consensus is derived. The issues are grouped by general topic, and.the Planning Areas raising the issues are indicated in parentheses. A. Development Policies I. Keep Saratoga rural; don't. try to emulate what is popular in other jurisdictions. (B) 2. Require better landscaping and more uniform setbacks along roadways. (FQ). 3. If it is unlikely that a total street will be improved, take a deferred improvement agreement as a condition of approval rather than requiring the developer to install the street improvements with his project. (I) 4. Improve the appearance of Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road. (C) - 14 - B. Land Use Policies 1. Don't allow use permits to be approved which are counter to General Plan intent; permitted and conditional uses indicated in the zoning ordinance should be consistent with the General Plan. (FK(L) and D) 2. Make sure the General Plan Map and the zoning map are consistent. (J.) 3. Follow the intent of the Village Plan of 1974. (J) 4. A floodplain zone is needed. (FK(L) 5. The P G & E installation at Mendelsohn and Piedmont is an eyesore. (I) 6. Home occupations are not appropriate if they disturb the neighborhood. (E) 7. Control lighting on private property if it disturbs neighbors. (I) 8. Protect residents from the noise emanating from certain commercial activities. (Hubbard & Johnson - C; Quito Shopping Center powersweeping - FQ and D) C. Fiscal Policies 1. Development fees should equal the actual costs to the City. (A) 2. Give more thorough attention to City finances. (E) 3. Seek authorization to increase taxes in lieu of seeking revenue from more commercial development. (D) 4. Impose a city sales-tax of 2 %. (E) S. Provide economic incentives to encourage improvement of rundown buildings. (J) 6. Weigh the fiscal impacts of all suggested City programs. (E) D. Public Services and Facilities 1. Improve police protection. (FK(L) 2. Establish City's own police force. (C) 3. Several school districts providing service within one city creates problems. (D) - 15 - 4. The enrollment policies and service area for West Valley College should be evaluated in light of traffic and other impacts on the surrounding community. (G) S. The regularity of the flea markets held at West Valley College is objectionable. (H) 6. Institute weekly curbside recycling. (K) E. Traffic and Circulation 1. Retain loop road concept. (A) 2. Regulate vehicle parking along streets. (B and D) 3. Install traffic light at Prospect and Lyle. (D) 4. The parking design at Quito Market is difficult to use. (D and H) 5. Traffic hazards were noted at: a. Fruitvale Avenue south of West Valley College. (G) b. Saratoga Avenue near Herriman. (H) C. Quito Road at Paseo Lado. (K and FQ) d. Both Cox and McCoy (Lane striping needed). (FQ) e. Quito and Westmont. (K) f. Quito and Devon., (FQ) 6. Give a parking bonus for Village property owners who improve old buildings. (J) 7. Don't resurface Big Basin Way until Parking District #3 exists. (J) 8. Quito Road beautification is needed, including landscaping and bike path. (K) F. City Administration. 1. Establish more open communication between City and residents. (A) 2. Eliminate red tape at, City Hall. (E) 3. Improve public noticing. (FK(L) 4. Stronger enforcement by City of conditions imposed on construction work (i.e., hours for equipment operation). (FQ) - 16 - ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT GOALS' 1974 General Plan G.P.C.A.C. Reeamended cols Goals .- .1981 1. Control the density of development in hill areas to protect the unique quality of the City's mountainous backdrop. 2. Preserve the low density- and natural character of Saratoga by the inclusion of permanent open space and landscaping within the City. 3. Use open space to provide safety from hazards to human life such as wild -. fires, earthquake destru� tion, landslides and flooc',.ng. 4. In !�-evelcped areas, protect residents from injuries and minimize property damage from earthquakes. 5. Conserve natural vegetative and topographic features which exist in Saratoga and its Sphere of Influence. 6. Develop and adopt a Saratoga Sphere of Influence Plan. 1. Control the density of development in hill areas, including the Sphere of Influence, to protect the aesthetic qualities of the City. (Conservation Element)* 2. Preserve the low density and natural character of Saratoga by the inclusion of permanent open space and landscaping within the City. (Open Space Element) 3. Use open space to provide safety from Hazards to human life such as wildfires, earthquake destruction, landslides and flooding. (Open Space Element) 4. Protect residents from injuries and minimize property damage from earthquakes, flooding, and other natural hazards in populated areas. (Seismic Safety Element) 5. Conserve natural vegetative and significant topographic features which exist in Saratoga and its Sphere of Influence. (Conservation Element) 6. Adhere to the adopted Saratoga Sphere of Influence Plan. (Land Use Element) 7. Adhere to the adopted Northwestern Hillside Specific Plan. (Lane Use Element) Pl.anr__ng Commission Recommended Goals -.1981 1981 E.R.M. Policies (By Number Only) that Relate to E.R.M. Goals G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Policies Policies 1 & 2 3 & 4 5 & 6 7, 8.'& 9 7; 8 &9 10 -14 17 15 & 16 71 ' �: 1 191 V• • 9v � '.M r+ r. �y 171 •+ 1974 General Plan Goals G.P.C.A.C. Rec mmnded Goals - 1981 8. Insure the quality of the natural envircnnent and the character of the City through appropriate regulation of site development. (Conservation Element) 9. Encourage.energy conservation, maximun energy efficiency, and the utilization of renewable energy resources,,keeping aesthetics in mind, in order to reduce dependence on non- renewable resources for satisfy- ing basic and norrbasic energy needs. (Conservation Energy) 10. Strive to preserve open space and recreational resources provided by other agencies serving the Community, when the continuation of that service is in jeopardy. (Coen Space Element) Although the goals are grouped into three inter - related categories in the Saratoga General Plan, they also relate to certain elements mandated by state planning law. The parenthetical information cites the related element. hf. Planning Camdssion Recomrended Goals - 1981 t: 1981 E.R.M. Policies (By hknber Only) that Relate to E.R.M. Goals G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Policies I Policies 16 17 -21 22 -25 26 -29 '*ejs _.IMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT GOALS 1981 C. D. Policies (By Number Only) that Relate to C. D. Goals 1974 General Plan Goals G.P.C.A.C. Recarmended Goals = 1981 Planning Cammission Reccmnended Goals - 1981 G.P.C.A.C. Policies P.C. Policies 1. Maintain the rural, 1. Pramte the opportunity for all 1 -7 residential character of residents to have a sound hand and Saratoga. a satisfying environment. (Housing Element)* 2. Provide public open space 8 -12 and recreation areas 2. Maintain and enhance the character, accessible to all residents, quality, and livability of the particularly those in the City's residential neighborhoods. more densely developed (Housing Element) residential areas. 3. Affirm that the City shall continue 3. Enhance the unique charactez to be predominantly a cam munity of 13 -14 of the Village as the centex single - family detached residences. of cmmunity activity, (Housing Element) commerce and vitality. 4. Insure that new housing shall be 4. Create distinctive, attrac- compatible with the existing 15 -17 tive entrances to the City. natural and constructed environment (Housing Element) 5. Provide suitable housing 18 -21 alternatives for Saratoga 5, Conserve our finite natural senior citiznes. resources by stressing the impor- tance of energy efficiency in 6. Meet the local ccmmmercial housing. (Housing Element) 22 and service needs of the City residents. 6. Provide architectural design review 7. Enhance built -up areas with for all development in Saratoga, to the greatest legal extent possible. 23 -26 landscaping, bu es p' g especially in (TAn Use Element) commercial areas and along 27 streets. 7. Relate new development and its land uses to existing street 8. Protect the rural capacities. (Land Use Element) atmosphere of Saratoga by considering the visual 8. Pramte the long -term economic impact of new development. soundness of the City government through careful analysis of land use decisions and fiscal practices. (land Use Element) wt L rt 1S. •i\ . } ,��• SQL _� ,_ CCra nINI7'Y DEVELOPMENT GOALS 1981 C. D. Policies (By Number Only) that Relate to C. D. Goals 1974 General Plan G.P.C.A.C. Recommended Planning Commission G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Goals Goals,- 1981 Recd m+erded Goals - 1981 Policies Policies 9. Protect historical and 9. Improve the economic viability of 28 -30 archeological values and Saratoga's existing commercial significant geographic land- areas and their accessibility by marks from destruction by residents, keeping in mind the development whenever impact on the surrounding residen- possible, tial,Areas. (Land Use Element) 10. Prepare and adopt a plan to 10. Enhance the unique historic 31 accomplish a swift return tr character of the village as the normal government and • center of community activity, activity in time of disaster ccmrerce, and vitality. (Latin Use Element) 11. Protect Saratoga residents 32 from excessive noise. 11. Protect historical and archaeolo- gical values and significant 12. To the greatest legal extent geographic landmarks frown destruc- possible, provide archi- tion by development whenever tectural design review for possible. (Conservation Element) all development in Saratoga. 12.. Protect the existing rural atmosphere of Saratoga by carefull considering the visual impact of new development. (Conservation Element) _ 13. Enhance built-up areas with land- 33 soaping and maintenance, especiall in commercial areas and along streets. (Conservation Element) 14. Create distinctive, attractive entrances to the City, partictr larly in conjunction with new 34 development and redevelopment. (Open Space Element) - : ! 1 .C: f5 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT GOALS 1981 C.D. Policies (By Numher Oily) that Relate to C.D. Goals 1974 General Plan G.P.C.A.C. Reccnmended Planning Ccrmdssion G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Goals Goals - 1981 Reco mended Goals.- 1981 Policies Policies 15. Provide public open space and 35 recreation areas accessible to all residents, particularly those in the more densely developed - residential areas. (Open Space 36 Element) 16. Protect Saratoga Residents from excessive noise. (Noise Element) 17. Update regularly the City's Emergency Plan (Safety Element) _ i f _iRCULATION GOALS 1981 Circulation Policies (By Number Only) that RelatE to Circulation Goals 1974 General Plan G.P..C.A.C. Reccannended Planning Cannission G.P.C.A.C. I P.C. Goals Goals - 1981 Recaiineraa Goals - 1981 . Policies Policies 1. Promote a balanced 1. Pxowte a balanced transportation 13 -14 transportation system in system in Saratoga with attention. Saratoga with attention to 17 -27 to energy efficient transportation. a mass transportation (Circulation Element)* system. 2. Facilitate the safe mavement of 2. Facilitate the safe move- vehicular traffic within and ment of vehicular traffic through the City taking into within and through the consideration the environmental, V4 •7 City; however, some historical, and residential inconvenience will be integrity of the City. (Circulation accepted where necessary to Element) preserve residential integrity. 3. Protect the aesthetic, historic and remaining rural qualities of 3, Protect the rural quality Saratoga through street design and of Saratoga through street landscaping. (Circulation Element, design and landscaping and Scenic Highways Element) strive for aesthetically pleasing views fran all 4. Strive for aesthetically pleasing roads in Saratoga and the views from all roads in Saratoga Sphere of Influence. and the Sphere of Influence. (Scenic Highways Element) 4. Relate land uses to existin street capacities. 5. Use existing street capacities in determining land uses. (Circulation 5. Integrate safe bicycling, Element) walking and horseback riding into the total 6. Integrate safe bicycling, walking, transportation system, and horseback riding into the total transportation system. 6. The existing trails and (Circulation Element: Trails and pathways map (1971) shall Pathways) be included in the General Plan until such time as a 7. Promote the present equestrian new plan is developed and zones and analyze their consistency approved by the Parks with the 1977 Trails and Pathways and Recreation Ccnunission, Plan of the Circulation Element. not to exceed one year. (Circulation Element: Trails and Pathways) 1 -4 4 -9 10 -12 13 -14 15 -16 17 -27 21,27 r 4 V4 •7 CIRCULATION GOALS — 1981 Circulation Policies (By Number Only) that Relatc to Circulation Goals 1979 General Plan G.P.C.A.C. Recommended Planning Cumnssion G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Goals Goals.-' 1981 Reccnmenc%_,: Z,als .- 19.81 Policies Policies 7. A circulation plan shall 8• Develop a circulation plan to show 19 & 25 be developed to show logi- logical rreans of egress and ingress cal means of egress and to undeveloped areas of the City ingress to undeveloped and its Urban Service Area. areas of the City and its (Circulation Element) Sphere of Influence. 9. Preserve the width and appearance of roads associated with Saratoga's . earlier development (Circulation Element 10,11, 28 & 29 Although the goals are grouped into three inter - related categories in the Saratoga General Plan, they also relate to certain elements mandated by state planning law. Zhe parenthetical information cities the related element. ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICIES 1981 E.R.M. Goals (By Nunber Only) that Relate to E.R.M. Policies 1974 General Plan Policies G.P.C.A.C. Reoammtended Policies - 1981 Planning Conmission Reccnvended Policies - 1981 G.P.C.A.C. Goals P.C. Goals 1. Further residential develop- 1.. The importance of the views of the 1 ment in Saratoga shall, mountains and hills from Saratoga through site plan require- shall be reviewed when considering ments, respect open space a development application within as much as possible. the City and its Sphere of 2. The importance of. the views Influenoe. 1 of the mountains and hills 2.. 9he City shall study the feasibiliti from the City shall be a of applying the hillside standards factor when considering for the Nopthwestern Hillsides development in the Sphere (the NHD Zone) to areas in Saratoga of Influence. and its sphere presently zoned or '- 3. School sites should provide , prezoned Hillside Conservation open space and recreation Residential (HCRD). •.{ r yY •s.' r 4. ij(. :cuirt :: i. f i � •6� S S � �.,. requirements, preserve open spa e creeks which lace through as much as possible. Saratoga shall be preserved 4. Site planning for residential • r� ,2. v { a Fy: - -�n :.�: ± ft. their natural state. ' �.t + y °r• 5. Mineral extraction in the 5. When property in the City's open �.5. City and its Sphere of ,1�F.�Y.� space inventory is proposed for t Influence shall be regulated development, the City shall con- and supervised to minimize sider the effect of its development lo- physical and visual damage on the open space of the City, and to the existing environment. shall strive to assure preservation 6. The City shall consider the of that which gives Saratoga its inpact development may have _. rural and residential character. on the quantity and quality 6. The City -owned orchard land, bound- 2 of water within the City ed by Wildcat Creek and Fruitvale ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICIES 1981 E.R.M. Goals (By Nunber Only) that Relate to E.R.M. Policies 1974 General Plan Policies G.P.C.A.C. Reoammtended Policies - 1981 Planning Conmission Reccnvended Policies - 1981 G.P.C.A.C. Goals P.C. Goals 1. Further residential develop- 1.. The importance of the views of the 1 ment in Saratoga shall, mountains and hills from Saratoga through site plan require- shall be reviewed when considering ments, respect open space a development application within as much as possible. the City and its Sphere of 2. The importance of. the views Influenoe. 1 of the mountains and hills 2.. 9he City shall study the feasibiliti from the City shall be a of applying the hillside standards factor when considering for the Nopthwestern Hillsides development in the Sphere (the NHD Zone) to areas in Saratoga of Influence. and its sphere presently zoned or 3. School sites should provide prezoned Hillside Conservation open space and recreation Residential (HCRD). resources for the City. 3. Further- residential development in 2 4. Because of their open space Saratoga shall, through site plan and recreational value, the requirements, preserve open spa e creeks which lace through as much as possible. Saratoga shall be preserved 4. Site planning for residential 2 as nearly as possible in development in Saratoga shall pro- their natural state. tect the natural environment. 5. Mineral extraction in the 5. When property in the City's open 2 City and its Sphere of space inventory is proposed for Influence shall be regulated development, the City shall con- and supervised to minimize sider the effect of its development physical and visual damage on the open space of the City, and to the existing environment. shall strive to assure preservation 6. The City shall consider the of that which gives Saratoga its inpact development may have rural and residential character. on the quantity and quality 6. The City -owned orchard land, bound- 2 of water within the City ed by Wildcat Creek and Fruitvale and its Sphere of Influence. and Saratoga Avenues, shall be designated as an historic preserve under the heritage preservation ordinance. '. :• HC t � �ci laj" t` \;fit .!`�'•'X: ' ' ,: t 7, 'ss t i�t• m v 5 . �'. � � � � r � � �� i.� t� t f � t � ' `' � � ! �� t �, 4 �it -� f N. L .a f yt S .t: 7# A. A ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICIES 1981 E.R.M. Goals (By Nunber Only) that Relate to E.R.M. Policies 1974 General Plan G,P.C.A.C. Recommended Planning Commission G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Policies Policies - 1981 Recommended Policies - 1981 Goals I Goa] 7. The impact on air quality shall be evaluated in connection with development and highway construction. 8. Possible impacts on wild- life habitats shall be considered when areas are proposed for development or active recreation. 9. Sufficiently strict standards shall be applied to private sanitation services to avoid contamin- ation of the water supply. 7. Because of their open space and aesthetic value, creeks shall be preserved as nearly as possible in their natural state, and consisten with the protection of adjacent properties. — — 8. The City shall adopt an ordinance providing a flood plain overlay zone. 9. The City shall adopt an ordinance providing a hazardous fire area overlay zone, which shall reinforo development regulations concerning fire- retardant construction and landscaping. 10. Mineral extraction in the City and its sphere of Influence shall be regulated and supervised to mini mize physical and visual damage to the existing environment. 11. TYme City shall encourage renewal of Williamson Act contracts. 12. The City shall adopt a resolution establishing criteria for evalua- ting requests for cancellation of William Act contracts. 3 3 3 67 5 5 J [ ry s t 1 ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICIES 1974 General Plan Policies G.P.C.A.C. Reoonmended Policies - 1981 13. Tnrough implementation of the tree preservation ordinance, the City shall control the removal or destruction of trees. 14. in the process of all new develop,- ment,,particular care shall be 'taken to preserve native oaks, measuring at least ten inches in diameter at twenty -four inches above the ground, and other significant trees by careful siting of all improvements. 15. Lands shall not be annexed to Saratoga unless they are conti- ' guous to the existing City limits and it is determined by the City that public services can be provided without unrecoverable cost to the City and /or dilution of services to existing residents. 16. The City shall evaluate its designated unincorporated Urban Service Areas to determine if the areas are compatible with the County's Local Agency Formation Ccntaission (IAFCO) Policies and are appropriate for annexation and urban development. 17. The City shall strive to protect wildlife and wildlife habitats when considering proposals, for development or plans for active recreation. Planning Can - nission Remanded Policies 1981 1981' E.R.M. Goals (By Ntmiber Only) that Relate to E.R.M: Policies) G.P.C.A.C. I P.C. 5 5 6 6 8 i. {. ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICIES 1981 E.R.M. Goals (By Nurrber Only) that Relate to E.R.M. Policies 1974 General. Plan G.P.C.A.C. Reccmnended Planning CcmTdssion G.P.C.A.C. P.C. �_k r I!` }} 1 i i- ' '' ' IA • t ` / ,1l 7.., J j. n y � t `{ 446 .f� � 't 1 f y � C� s. f ;,. ,•' � tion. 19. She City shall minimize the impact 8 that'develogrent may have on the quality of water within the City and its Sphere of.Influence, including the application of strict standards to sanitation ' services to avoid ground water pl contamination. P T 20. The City shall minimize the impact g that development may have on the quantity of water consumed by the development. 21. Watersheds shall be protected by 8 stringent erosion control during - N development and by minimizing grading to the fullest extent possible. 22. Consider developing an Energy ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICIES 1981 E.R.M. Goals (By Nurrber Only) that Relate to E.R.M. Policies 1974 General. Plan G.P.C.A.C. Reccmnended Planning CcmTdssion G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Policies Policies —1981 Recommended Policies - 1981 Goals Goals ,1l 18. The impact on air quality shall J j. 8 be evaluated in connection with development and highway construc- tion. 19. She City shall minimize the impact 8 that'develogrent may have on the quality of water within the City and its Sphere of.Influence, including the application of strict standards to sanitation ' services to avoid ground water contamination. 20. The City shall minimize the impact g that development may have on the quantity of water consumed by the development. 21. Watersheds shall be protected by 8 stringent erosion control during - development and by minimizing grading to the fullest extent possible. 22. Consider developing an Energy 9 Element within the General Plan to form the basis for energy conservation ordinances. 23. Prcmote cooperation and coordi- 9 nation with federal, state, regional, and local governmental and private agencies in seeking to formulate and implement energy planning programs. ,1l � i'• J j. .lit } }I', ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICIES � - r � � -� �, to E.R.M. Policies � G.P.C.A.C. Recommended Planning Commission '� � �. f 12.1 i f 1 i Y 4l ; sf ; i � , L y } `� 1 } � � ✓ �; ` 1 information on energy - conservation 1 F 7 7;, ttl jSS. ! J S % i �, T??. v Z• W (jY 25. Promote curbside pickup of segregated recyclable resources. 9 26. School sites should also provide open space and recreation resources 10 for the City. say'-. ti, 10 providing for interim leased s - 4 . p �; .rY,, impose a neighborhood impact no greater than that of the prior school use. 28. If public ownership of school sites 10 is not possible, restrict the use of the property to residential ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICIES 1981 E.R.M. Goals (By Number Only) that Relate to E.R.M. Policies 1974 General Plan G.P.C.A.C. Recommended Planning Commission G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Policies Policies - 1981 Recommended Policies > 1981 Sys Goals 24. Facilitate dissemination of 9 information on energy - conservation techniques and alternative energy sources. 25. Promote curbside pickup of segregated recyclable resources. 9 26. School sites should also provide open space and recreation resources 10 for the City. 27. The City shall adopt an ordinance 10 providing for interim leased uses of surplus schools that will impose a neighborhood impact no greater than that of the prior school use. 28. If public ownership of school sites 10 is not possible, restrict the use of the property to residential development at a density not higher then the surrounding residential neighborhood and zoning, with the exception of Saratoga School on Oak Street. Being adjacent to multiple residential zoning, said site shall have a use with a miniman impact on residential zoning, and .the evaluation of the use should be determined at such time there is a change in ownership. I .� 1 Y t^r' !t ��' t s •' ' � :,1�1 4> , � d� :C- �a Y -.'� R� A. ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICIES 1981 E.R.M. Goals (By iNLmber Only) that Relate to E.R.M. Policies 1979 General Plan G.P.C.A.C. Recam-ended Planning Connission G.P.C.A.C, P.C. Policies Policies - 1981 Recatmended Policies - 1981 Goals Goals 29. If a school site which is the primary open space resource for 10 the surrounding neighborhood is to be sold, consideration should be given to requiring as a -• condition of approval that the developer of the subsequent subdivision contribute a portion of the site to the City for a ` park or public open .space. i } , ! y }•_ I �r � F ' +t J( �"(j� •' S � ��2 J � `. � � � 1 - t y i 1 T i� t 5. 3 �� J _ l A IS f�� .'I `- ' s i 'S �. i _ zt .I 5 I t '' t t�. •-i - J 1•. •. } ,,S 4 7 ✓ _ l !rt berry. ST j' i. ,. : +E �? I ''�z �� •� `' is ;r J ' t '•' - �' >�` �, � � 1c ny: Via" '- ! clx�: ,� � s - �' � - �I - r fi. � �, Y - ��t � �J- •rte'! k � r I � � 3,y. 3( t - _ + I��3 ,t •+..c COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES 1981 C.D. Goals (By Number Only) that Relate to C.D. Policies 1974 General Plan G.P.C.A.C. RecanTended Planning Commission I G.P.C.A.C. P.C. I Policies Policies - 1981 Recat¢riended Policies - 1981 Goals Goals 1. Saratoga shall discourage premature development of outlying areas of the City and its Sphere of Influence. 2. Building and site design review shall be required for all single - family sub- divisions and apartment developments. 3. The City shall actively encourage conservation and, where necessary, rehabili- tation of existing housing. 4. Attention shall be given to preserving natural landscape and/or orchard open space. 5. Park dedication or fee provisions for the subdivi- sion ordinance and planned ca mnmity residential development shall be inportant methods for the City to obtain open spaces. 6. Neighborhood catmercial development shall be con- fined to existing sites and buffered from adjacent residential uses. 7. Industrial land use in Saratoga shall be limited to existing sites. 1. The City should recognize the changing housing needs of Saratoga residents. 2. The City should encourage develop- ment of a residential stock which will promote the opportunities for housing alternatives for Saratoga senior citizens, with no increase in density, in areas where there is neighborhood acceptance adjacent to the site. 3. The City shall encourage accessi- bility for the handicapped in housing and other buildings. 4. The City shall cooperate with the efforts of the County, non- profit groups,. and the private sector to provide help to individuals to continue living in and maintaining their homes. 5. The City shall rely upon the private sector's participation in providing housing for the mix of incomes now residing in Saratoga. 6. She City should be responsive to new -ideas in physical design and types of construction for meeting housing needs. 7. Rental housing opportunities shoul be maintained and encouraged (note GPCAC divided on this) 1 1 I 1 i 1 I P 1 1 I� . ; � y 5 t � i � �. � � i' �^ -.( 2t. s , � 'i - s. '• a !�`. t. -6- r - t �- iii •� . >t � - � S�'� Y 4 � � t - , + -,�r- � 7 ��% e {; fi t_ � � s - ��s i,�. 1 = .. � - �� ? ! l� �'+ • JA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES 1981 C.D. Goals (By Number Only that Relate to C.D. Policies 1974 General Plan Policies G.P.C.A.C. Recommended Policies - 1981 Planning Commission Recommended Policies'- 1981 G.P.C.A.C. Goals P,C. Goals 8. The City should encourage 8. The City shall actively encourage 2. development of a resider- conservation and, where necessary, tial stock which would rehabilitation of existing housing. ,' provide housing alterna- 9. The City shall promote programs y"ta" .�' tives for Saratoga senior which will protect and maintain the 2 citizens. City's lower valued housing stock. 9. Any development in areas 10.. The City shall promote land use subject to natural hazards decisions which will protect the 2 shall be designed to environs of the City's lower protect the environment, valued housing stock. inhabitants, and general public. In areas of" ex- 11. Protect the City's existing market 2 treme hazard, development rate housing. Ray be prohibited. 12. The City shall strive to maintain 10. Potential seismic activity the qualities that make Saratoga 2 shall be considered in neighborhoods desirable for determining areas suitable families with children. for development. 13. Existing nondeveloped sites zoned I 3 11. The City shall mitigate single family detached residential t the danger of earthquake should remain so designated. i damage by enforcing strict 14. Industrial land use in Saratoga I earthquake construction shall be limited to existing sites. 3 and soil engineering standards, selecting the 15. The City shall mitigate the danger I 4 most stable areas for of earthquake damage by enforcing development, and by having strict earthquake construction and developers campensate for soil engineering standards, soil instabilities by selecting the most stable areas fox approved engineering and development, and by having construction techniques. clevelopers compensate for soil instabilities by approved engineer- ing and construction techniques. ,' g y"ta" .�' COM14UNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES 1981 C.D. Goals (By Number Qtly that Relate to C.D. Policies 1974 Genera]. Plan G.P.C.A.C. Recommended Planning Commission G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Policies I Policies - 1981 1 Recommended Policies 1981 Goals I Goals 12. The function of a street shall be recognized in advance of construction and design criteria used to minimize disruption to the area caused by through or heavy local traffic. 13. 4he City shall require that ambient noise for resideir ti:al neighborhoods and for rest hmies be kept within the levels specified by ordinance. 14. Zhe natural beauty of the ridgelines should be protected. Only minimum cut and fill should be permitted. j f . •iY • ,�. n �S Y _' : {r ' �. r5 COM14UNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES 1981 C.D. Goals (By Number Qtly that Relate to C.D. Policies 1974 Genera]. Plan G.P.C.A.C. Recommended Planning Commission G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Policies I Policies - 1981 1 Recommended Policies 1981 Goals I Goals 12. The function of a street shall be recognized in advance of construction and design criteria used to minimize disruption to the area caused by through or heavy local traffic. 13. 4he City shall require that ambient noise for resideir ti:al neighborhoods and for rest hmies be kept within the levels specified by ordinance. 14. Zhe natural beauty of the ridgelines should be protected. Only minimum cut and fill should be permitted. 16. Development shall be designed to retain the natural topographic features of the land to the maximum extent possible. 17. Any Oevelopment in areas subject. .to natural hazards shall be designed to protect the environ- ment, inhabitants and general public. In areas where personal safety, property damage, or damage to streets and utilities could occur,, development may be prohibited. 18. The City shall promote building and subdivision designs which incorporate passive or natural heating opportunities. 19. Solar access for new and existing structures shall be protected without removal of existing mature trees. 20. The City shall encourage the use of solar energy for space and water heating, and shall provide guidance for aesthetic placement and installation of the solar system. 21. The City shall promote the use of available energy conservation techniques for new and existing structures with the realization that the aesthetics of the strur i ture must be a prime consideratior I f 4 4 5 ;5 i. 5 i 5 •iY • ,�. n 16. Development shall be designed to retain the natural topographic features of the land to the maximum extent possible. 17. Any Oevelopment in areas subject. .to natural hazards shall be designed to protect the environ- ment, inhabitants and general public. In areas where personal safety, property damage, or damage to streets and utilities could occur,, development may be prohibited. 18. The City shall promote building and subdivision designs which incorporate passive or natural heating opportunities. 19. Solar access for new and existing structures shall be protected without removal of existing mature trees. 20. The City shall encourage the use of solar energy for space and water heating, and shall provide guidance for aesthetic placement and installation of the solar system. 21. The City shall promote the use of available energy conservation techniques for new and existing structures with the realization that the aesthetics of the strur i ture must be a prime consideratior I f 4 4 5 ;5 i. 5 i 5 �S Y _' : {r ' �. a �� t i y r ff y a �� > J J ; Y i J 4 s -.� � - max.' 'e _ {J - _ i . x��ti �iM1- 1 1 a; 3 ,t' � �: •. kv COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES 1981 C.D. Goals (By Niutber Only) that Relate to C.D. Policies 1974 General Plan G.P.C.A.C. Reco miended Planning CcnIInission G.P.C:A.C. P.C. Policies Policies - 1981 Recommended Policies - 1981 Goals Goals 22. r1he City shall use the design I 6 review process to assure that new construction and major additions thereto are ccnpatible with the site and the adjacent surroundings 23. She Emulative impact of new 7 developtrent shall be considered prior to land use decisions on individual parcels. 24. Proposed land uses and development 7 proposals shall be evaluated against ordinance standards to assure that the related traffic, noise, light, appearance, and intensity of use have limited adverse impact on the area. 25. The capacity of existing streets 7 shall be recognized in advance I{ of construction of any project. Design criteria for new develop- ment shall be used to minimize I disruption to the area caused by an increase in through or heavy traffic. Cumulative inpacts of new development shall be consider- ed prior to land use decisions on individual parcels. 26. Tie number of interconnecting 7 roads between major thoroughfares and collectors should be limited by keeping through streets out of residential neighborhoods.- Circular design of collector streets back to major thoroughfare shall be encouraged. A A ,+ i rx i - G.P.C.A.C. Recamiended 1 'a G.P.C.A.C. P.C. ,t �. J i •.{� t 1 i f ', �1� 'Fi�. .. � t ,S �+� 27. The City shall consider the I 8 economic impacts of all land use decisions. 115- -. 9 28. Non-re_ sidential and industrial 9 111 uses shall be buffered from other _ F!�IA L�'' 'EAY �y •� �•t (• to 29. Non - residential development shall ! be confined to sites presently (. -designated on the 1974 General Plan for non - residential uses. fiat �•': Existing nonresidential zoning shall not be expanded nor new ones added.' 30. '2ue City shall encourage the 10 designation of heritage resources and assure their protection, i maintenance, and enhancement by the provisions of the heritage preservation Ordinance. 31. Sue natural beauty of the ridge- COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES 1981 C..D. Goals (By Number Cn1y) that Relate to C.D. Policies 1974 General Plan G.P.C.A.C. Recamiended Planning Commission G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Policies Policies _ 1981 Recommended Policies'- 1981 Goals Goals 27. The City shall consider the I 8 economic impacts of all land use decisions. is -. 9 28. Non-re_ sidential and industrial 9 uses shall be buffered from other uses by methods such as setbacks, landscaping, berms and soundwalls. 29. Non - residential development shall 9 be confined to sites presently (. -designated on the 1974 General Plan for non - residential uses. Existing nonresidential zoning shall not be expanded nor new ones added.' 30. '2ue City shall encourage the 10 designation of heritage resources and assure their protection, i maintenance, and enhancement by the provisions of the heritage preservation Ordinance. 31. Sue natural beauty of the ridge- 11 lines shall be protected as prescribed in the Northwestern Hillside Specific Plan. 'fir :Al{ is NI 4 7 • rte ttt--13 Jyrr�, 5 ' '�' ; Y � <: u4 iN ! -.. Tf�ti A air v 4 b• ; yi "N COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES 1981 C.D. Goals (By NLmber Only) that Relate to C.D. Policies 1974 General Plan G.P.C.A.C. Recemrended Planning Commission G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Policies Policies - 1981 Reeonerended Policies - 1981 Goals.- I Goals 32. Encourage the formation of assess- ment districts to improve and maintain landscaping throughout the City. 43. The park dedication and in lieu • provisions of the subdivisirn ordinance shall be an important mechanism by which the City can provide for recreational areas and open space within the cammnuty, 34.. The City shall require that ambient noise for residential neighborhoods and for rest hares be kept within the levels specified by ordinance. 35. 9ie City shall prepare, review, and update on a regular basis a plan for emergency or disaster action. his plan shall use :local resources and manpuaer to provide maxim n benefit and protection for the City's ' residents. 13 15 16 17 .! Wr w. sa 1 f. %i t .,�r.• j d st' �' ;fir '> - j ��f �!. .j f r r � t,•.:' � t �k 4 i — t 4'� � f l r -a f 3• � Lt 9 _ '' 666 � .', / s k •r�� r i"�' � � � fSt • j t • • �� t; r ;� ' ° � ,I• � �;, a .. ' y� j Xr7 �y,� jij u� fit. '�{ i - .-:rr A:a i CIRCULATION POLICIES .1981 Circulation Goals (By Number Only that Relate to Circulation Policies ts. 1974 General Plan G.P.C.A.C. Recccrmended Planning Commission G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Policies Policies - 1981 Recortv{ended Policies - 1981 Goals Goals 1. The City shall require 1. The City shall encourage and adequate access in keeping participate in the Countywide 1 with the density of develop- implementation of a variety of ment. nodes of transport to serve-, 2. For safety, eve ry new or Saratoga. developing residential area 2. The City shall work toward improved 1 in the City with more than public transit, including npxe 15 housing units should frequent service and access to the have a primary and secondary Village. (or emergency) access. 3. The West Valley Corridor right of- _. 3. Znrough collector streets way shall be p erved. 1 for exclusively residential neighborhoods shall reirr 4.. The City hall y require public force the character of.the' right- of-way to be offered on all I 1 area by circumventing the private roads designated as core of the neighborhood. collectors,. Broken collectors which do 5. Every new. or developing public and not tranverse the neighbor- private cul -de -sac greater than 2 hood can provide supple- 500 feet in length shall have an mental ingress and egress, emergency access. 4. The major traffic generators .6. Through collector streets for 2 in the City should be exclusively residential neighbor- provided with the best and hoods shall reinforce the ' least disruptive access character of the area by circkun- possible. venting the core of the neighbor- 5. Minimum City street Stan hood. Broken collectors which do shall depend upon location, not tranverse the neighborhood can terrain, character of areas provide supplemental ingress and and the anticipated function egress. of "the roadway. 7_' The major traffic generators in the City should be provided with j 2 the best and least disruptive access possible. ts. i 1 t S) 11:A;;; . •R_ j - f ;,- y:i l i j� � ' tt �c I !- 5, - i-r y fi. {. ? >q Zi CIRCULATTON- POLICIES :1981 CirculationtGoals (By NuTher Only that Relate to Circulation Policies 1974 Gencral. Plan G.P.C.A.C. Recommended planning Caumission I G.P.C.A.C. I P.C. Policies Policies - 1981 Recon¢rended Policies - 1981 Goals Goals 6. The function of a street should be recognized in advance and design criteria used to minimize disruptior and control speed in areas caused by through or heavy local traffic. 7. Assessment districts, form to bring existing streets up to minimum City standard shall include the entire length of the substandard portion of the street. 8. Private roads designated as collectors on the Saratoga Select Street System Map should be acquired and maintained by the City. 9. The West Valley Freeway right- of-way shall be designated as a public use corridor. Publicly owned portions of the freeway right- of-way should be designated for future publ-i use. 10. The City shall encourage an participate in Oounty -wide investigation of providing a variety of modes of transport to serve Saratoga 8. Assessment Districts, formed to bring existing streets, except heritage lanes, up to minimum City standards, shall be encouraged. 9. If it is unlikely that a totally substandard street will be improved, the City should take a deferred development agreement as a condition of approval for infill projects, rather than requiring inproverrent concurrent with development. 10. Minimum City street standards shall depend upon location, terrain, character of areas and the anticipated function of the road- way. 11. Road developmmnt to minimu -n City standards rather than to conven- tional City subdivision standards shall be allowed in order to preserve environmentally sensitive roadside features. 12. The function of a,street shall be. recognized in advance of construe tion, and design criteria used to minimize disruption to the area caused by through or heavy traffic. PA 2 3 3 3 ( '0.5. W ri . � r vjk •:� � J � �£'r i w _+ � _ ?� ; •c�t'�t 4� ! _ a y;i ;S } fix- �, r 4M t ' t_ r•, y r S s ,'e t CIRCULATION POLICIES 1981 Circulation Goals (By Number Only) that Relate to Circulation Policies 1974 General Plan G.P.C.A.C. Reoamtended Planning Ccmrdssion G. P.C. A.C. P.C. Policies Policies - 1981 RecomIInended Policies - 1981 I Goals Goals 11. Bicycle lanes shall be designated only where a road is wide enough and traffic volumes light enough to accam date them safely. 12. The bicycle route system should connect with bicycle route of adjacent comuni- ties, thereby increasing their accessibility to Saratogans. 13. Equestrian trails should be oriented to the Eques- trian Zones and adjacent }:_ portions of the Sphere .of .# � Influence. 14. Freeway, expressway, flood control and utility rights - of -way shall be used for trails wherever feasible. 15. beans shall be developed to maintain existing public trails in good condition. 16. Motorized vehicular traffic shall be prohibited on trails and pathways except for maintenance and emergency purposes. 13. The City shall enact the required ordinance(s) to control the aesthetics of all fences, walls and other structures which shall be built in connection with newly constructed structures along .designated scenic highways. Fences walls, and other structures - constructed along designated scenic highways as an effort to maintain or irprove the use of existing structures (built prior to the enactment of the above ordinance(s) shall be subject to a design review to ensure aesthetic ocapatibility with neighboring walls and fences so they will not detract from the scenic character of the-views fran the highway. 14. The City shall rigorously enforce ordinances to prevent the use of non - conforming roadside signs on all roads and highways within the City. This shall include the use of all signs whether they be erected by private individuals or business enterprises. .15. The City shall require adequate access in keeping with the density of develognent. 4 4 5 }:_ 1. . • .# � �. ��.�;!,� L: } ' 1974 Genera]. Plan �f r SY % ++ .• E i all 1'� !t i :. r i •{?'1' Z Policies - 1981 Cir Goals fR r� 17. Properties bordering trails 16. The City shall establish a minimum 5 should be protected from (, e; jl/ '-t i it 3. by strict enforcement of periods. Development which will private property rights. have the potential to lower the 18. In areas of exceptional level +of service belay the standard beauty, scenic pathway shall be changed so that the aooep easements shall be secured, able level of service shall-be ij maintained. ' ment occurs. 17. Bicycle lanes shall be designated t.i 1 � r14 i .• k r. + . �s1xE �,� {j ;� , yt � , @� 7 � _ � �)%. separated pathways should 18. Parking shall be prohibited in be provided in areas r �'� rJ •s 1 r f _ �.4 schools, along arterial 19. Mere economically feasible the streets, along collector bicycle route system should connect 6 streets, through the City's with the bicycle routes of adja- proposed linear park system cent ca=uni:ties, thereby increas- on the proposed freeway. ing their accessibility to right -of -way, and to Saratogans. mountain vista and picnic 20. Rights- of-way of the West Valley CIRCULATION POLICIES 1981 Circulation Goals (By Number Only) that Relate to Circulation Policies 1974 Genera]. Plan G.P.C.A.C. Recommended Planning Commission G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Policies Policies - 1981 Recommended Policies*- 1981 Goals Goals 17. Properties bordering trails 16. The City shall establish a minimum 5 should be protected from acceptable level of service for noise, litter and vandal-is City streets during peak travel 3. by strict enforcement of periods. Development which will private property rights. have the potential to lower the 18. In areas of exceptional level +of service belay the standard beauty, scenic pathway shall be changed so that the aooep easements shall be secured, able level of service shall-be preferably before develop_ - maintained. ment occurs. 17. Bicycle lanes shall be designated 6 only where a road can accammodate 19. Trails, sidewalks or them safely. separated pathways should 18. Parking shall be prohibited in be provided in areas designated bicycle lanes on 6 where needed to provide safe pedestrian access: to throughfares and collector streets. schools, along arterial 19. Mere economically feasible the streets, along collector bicycle route system should connect 6 streets, through the City's with the bicycle routes of adja- proposed linear park system cent ca=uni:ties, thereby increas- on the proposed freeway. ing their accessibility to right -of -way, and to Saratogans. mountain vista and picnic 20. Rights- of-way of the West Valley 6 man' Corridor, expressway, Santa Clara Valley Water District and utilities shall be used for trails wherever feasible.. 21. Encourage equestrian and pedestrian trails and pathways along roadways 6 in areas where safety and aesthetics permit. Equestrian pathways should relate to the equestrian zones. 3. '; - k _ � � � � t � r � ; rot 1 . • t 1 T: s a r •' 4) ?fit _ ' J TL CZRCUTATION POLICIES 1974 General Plan Policies G.P.C.A.C. Recaimended Policies - 1981 22. Means shall be developed, includ- ing volunteers, to maintain existing public trails in good condition. 23. Motorized vehicular traffic shall -be prohibited on trails, pathways, and parks, exoept for maintenance and emergency purposes.. 24. Properties bordering trails, pathways, and parks, shall be protected from noise, litter, and vandalism by strict enforcement of private property rights. 25:. Assure implementation of the City'; trails system by requiring trail construction and a method of trail maintenance as part of the subdivision or site approval. 26. Trails, sidewalks or separated pathways should be provided in areas where needed to provide safe pedestrian access to schools, along arterial streets, and along collector streets. 27. Encourage the trails policies noted in the Specific Plan for the Northwest Hillsides. Planning Commission Recon,ended Policies — 1981 � T F C •.: � 1981 Circulation Goals (By Number Cnly) that Relate to Circulation Policies G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Goals Goals 6 6 6 6 6 6 r ' t T: s G.P.C.A.C. Recaimended Policies - 1981 22. Means shall be developed, includ- ing volunteers, to maintain existing public trails in good condition. 23. Motorized vehicular traffic shall -be prohibited on trails, pathways, and parks, exoept for maintenance and emergency purposes.. 24. Properties bordering trails, pathways, and parks, shall be protected from noise, litter, and vandalism by strict enforcement of private property rights. 25:. Assure implementation of the City'; trails system by requiring trail construction and a method of trail maintenance as part of the subdivision or site approval. 26. Trails, sidewalks or separated pathways should be provided in areas where needed to provide safe pedestrian access to schools, along arterial streets, and along collector streets. 27. Encourage the trails policies noted in the Specific Plan for the Northwest Hillsides. Planning Commission Recon,ended Policies — 1981 � T F C •.: � 1981 Circulation Goals (By Number Cnly) that Relate to Circulation Policies G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Goals Goals 6 6 6 6 6 6 k.. ?fit _ ' J � :S (_ J � .pi � F {: r J r. � s y,'�^ j; '.F • iJ4 S•�+ .�. , ^ ��..y ( y } s t CIRCULATION POLICIES 1981 Circulation Goals (By Number Only) that Relate to Circulation Policies 1974 General Plan G.P.C.A.C. Recd mlended Planning Commission G.P.C.A.C. P.C. Coals Goals - 1981 . Recommended Goals.- 1981 Policies Policies 28. Encourage residents of streets and 9 roads believed to have historic merit to nominate those rights- of-way for designation as heritage lanes. 29. r1he designation of heritage lane 9 shall not preclude City action necessary to guarantee safe access for emergency vehicles while maintaining the integrity of the existing heritage lane.' r- ,. CTIU13 PROGRAM �L AREA A ' MT 3,, ED';N ✓ Area A, Mt. Eden, includes the northwestern corner of the City southerly r from the City boundary at Prospect to Pierce Road -Nit. Eden Road. Aoprox- imately 1/5 of the land is under Williamson Act contract. About 3/4 of the area is steeply sloping land and much of this land is geologically unstable. The predominant vegetation is grasslands, brush, orchards and vineyards, oak and hardwood forest and natural riparian areas. Much of Sara.toga's land is in the hills. The land provides a spectacular back -drop for the City and much of Saratoga's remaining open space is in these hills. This land is irreplaceable watershed. It absorbs rainfall, helping to prevent sudden run -off and flooding. It would cause major local and downstream environmental disruption if the lands were altered to any great degree. Some of the hilly portion of Area A has been urbanized and consists of large home.-on severely altered slopes. Access to remaining undevelop?d land can be accomplished only with major environmental disruption. Pierce Road is narrow, winding and rural in character. Widening of this road would require alteration of the natural environment and under - cutting of slopes. Rights -of -way for easements -along this road'are unclear and can be determined only through extensive surveying and probable adjudication. Junctions with local streets are generally steep with blind corners. Most of these intersection problems are uncorrectable due to topography. Ex- tension of these local roads would produce severe alteration of the slopes and increase the present high risk traffic conditions. A Specific Plan, mandated by the voters in Anril, 1980, has been developed for a large nrtion of the area. Densities prescribed by this plan are one dwelling unit to two acres of land at Oo slope. The Specific Plan initiativ requires densities to be decreased on a sliding scale based on the relative geotechnical hazards. The General Plan criteria for Area A must incorporate the mandate of the voters as adopted in the initiative measure. PROPOSED POLICIES 1. The following percentage credits toward the 0 -10 acre slope density requirements shall be allowed: 5 4. f or lands, shown as Md and Mrf 12'4 for lands shown as Ms 19Xo for lands shown as Pd 251/4 for lands shown as Pmw and Psf 35% for lands shown as Ps 35 for lands shown as Sex 90o for lands shown as Sun 100;4 for lands shown as Sbr and Sls Lands with the designations Pd, Ps, Pm,,v, 'sf and Ms will above cre,Iits for density calculations. No construction, be allowed on lands with those final designations. be allowed the however, will 2. Pierce Road and Via Regina, because of their unique rural character, shall be designated heritage roads. They shalt not be altered in any way that woii1,1. change the rural character. 3. All oak trees with a diameter of more than.. 10 inches along `Pierce Road AR -A A page 2 shallgibe d;;signated as heritage trees. No removal shall be allowed and pruning shall be limited.to that required for safety and the health of the ,trees. 4. The remaining substantially natural portions of -Prospect Creek shall be( preserved as they are. Development projects will be required to revegetate previously altered portions of the area. 5. No roads shall traverse lands having slopes greater than 3',31-lo. Preferably, roads will be restricted to lands with slopes no greater than 2O-o. Maxi- mum combined cuts and fills will not exceed 10 feet. 6. Emergency /secondary roads traversing lands with slooes greater than -20o shall not exceed 20 feet in over -all raved width. Rights -of -way shall be restricted to dimensions required to construct the 20 foot width. Homes shall not gain access through emergency /seco'ndary access roads. 7. Wardell Road, Comer Drive; Old Oak Way and Quarry Road are inadequate to handle through traffic. They should not be extended except as emergency/ secondary access roads as described above. 8. Houses should also be restricted to areas of less than 30% natural slope and shall require stringent geotechnical site investigation. 9. Design approval shall include effective natural screening from the valley floor to preserve the visual character of the City's back drop_. Vievws FROM the valley floor shall take precedence over views TO the valley. De- velopment may be prohibited where it would severely impact the City's scenic hillsides and ridgelines. No homes shall be built at the base of a hillside where there is danger Jif undercutting the slope. 11. Floor levels of homes shall conform to the natural contours of the hillside 12. Over -all site alteration shall be minimized. Maximum combined depths of cuts and fills shall be 10 feet. 13. Develonment proposals utilizing maximum densities shall include community tennis courts and swimming pools and preclude individual site-by-site con- struction of these amenities. Such amenities shall be allowed on over -size parcels which do not require alteration to accomplish such construction. 14. Cancellation of Williamson Act contracts shall not be allowed if this cancellation leads to or would result in development prior to the expiratio: of the contract. 15. No additional gas or water lines shall traverse lands that have a high risk of instability. Specific site investigation shall be done, with safety assured in writing by the City Geologist, before approval is given for any utility extensions. 16. The City shall not oarticioate in the formation of any future utility assessment districts in this area. RiXEIVED. N 0 V 2 1981. if!§ F;Z [_= 4P% E=t ID1 =E3 f_- F;Z ;='_F X C3 P4 PLANNING POLICY ANALYSIS Area R is bounded by Pierce road on the north, Saratoga Creek. and Congress Springs Road on the south and is to the west of Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road. Most of the area is occupied by low density residential development, or mountainous nous and orchard open space, similar to Area A. There are, however, some differences between the two areas. Area B contains one Williamson Act orchard. Foothill Elementary School. the only school within; the area, is in the R1- 15,000 area paralleling Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road. Wildwood City Park is located near the village Business District, which is just across Saratoga Creek. Adjacent to the Park_, separated by Fourth Street. is an area of former apartments which have been converted to condominiums. An area of more spacious clustered condominiums materially increased in size since the last plan review is to the southwest. Lying at one end of the area and close to the village, this region is somewhat separated from the rest of the area and has minimal impact on the overall predominance of single family l over density homes in Area P. Cxcept for the hillside area, the majority of developed. There remain a parcel known as Foundation" and a nearby orchard area, designate both with potential for significant development. site would also be a candidate for development if the school district. Area P is already the "Horticultural d "Spaich Orchard" The Foothill School it were closed by The area is unanimous in the desire to assure that any development or redevelopment of sites within the' area be only single family detached residential with a density consistent with the surrounding neighborhood. A major concern of the area is the development of the West Valley Corridor as a full freeway. The area unanimously indicated a high priority on immediate development of the corridor, in the believe - that its completion would greatly decrease the present intolerable traffic on Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road. The residents are concerned with the noise, pollution and safety hazards presented by the ever- increasing traffic on that road. In the absence of the promised development of the corridor, the area would like other remedies for relief from the adverse impact of the traffic. These might include sound walls, dense plantings or other means of decreasing through traffic on Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road. Another concern is the through traffic in neighborhoods which seems to be a result of extensive hillside development. It is felt that this traffic is using residential streets for access to Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road and that the roads designated as collectors are not adquate to handle the traffic that is being generated. For this reason, there is opposition to development that will create more trips to and from Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road. Among other traffic related concerns is the safe pedestrian passage between the west side of Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road and the shopping and school areas in the Argonaut area. It is felt that a pedestrian signal at Blauer Drive would help provide safe access to shopping and AREA B BESCRIPTIO N/SUMMARY /RECOMM`NDATI ^145 - 10/10/81 Page 2 school., In, conjunction with any development between the existing Argonaut Center and Cox avenue, it is felt that a thorough plan for handling any increase in traffic in and out of the shopping area / should be developed, possibly to include an access road which could l` also provide access to Cox Avenue. Residents of this planning area who reside in the Fourth Street vicinity find it difficult to get from Fourth Street to pig Basin Way during peak: traffic hours. This situation is especially severe during commute hours and holiday weekends and during the Christmas period when the tree sales are taking place in the county area of the hillsides. For this reason a safe way of turning from Fourth Street onto Pig Basin Way is felt to be a necessity. This would also help decrease some of the through traffic in other neighborhoods which is generated by those people trying to bypass this traffic bottleneck:. 1��EC=,MMjEeNI ,c)-7- Xj!�P M :' - -- 1. All development of vacant sites within, this area shall be developed as single family detached residential and conform to the density of the surrounding area. 2. A traffic signal shall be installed in the vicinity of Saratoga - Sunnyvale Rd. and Blauer to provide safe pedestrian passage between homes on "he west of Saratoga- Sunnyvale and shopping and ( schools on the east side of the road. A traffic light shall be installed on Big Basin Way at Fourth Street to enable those living in the vicinity of Fourth Street to safely enter Pig Basin Way during peak traffic and holiday times when ,the traffic is heavy. 4. In the absence of completion of a freeway in the West Valley Corridor to handle through traffic, the city shall work, with the appropriate agencies to develop and implement a plan to increase the protection of neighborhoods bordering Saratoga - Sunnyvale road from the noise and pollution which is a result of heavy traffic. This effort will include the consideration of installation of whatever sound barriers or dense landscaping that may be appropriate to help the impacted neighborhoods regain the use and enjoyment of their property. 5. The city shall study the flow of traffic on the West side of Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road, developing and implementing appropriate traffic controls to channel through traffic onto collector streets and off of residential streets. 6. Before further development of the area in the vicinity of Argonaut Center tak=es place, the impact of increased traffic on Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road shall be studied and a plan for minimizing the traffic impact shall be developed. This might involve an access road paralleling Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road and providing access to Cox Avenue. . I � AREA C -BNE H1115 The Blue Hills Area is bounded by Prospect Road on the north, the proposed transportation corridor orf th-e east, Cox Avenue :Wardell Road on the south., and the northwest Hillside Zone on the west. Residential development in this area has a density of approximately four units to the acre (R1- 10,000 & R1- 12,500). The area contains Blue Hills Elementary Schobl.on its eastern boundary. A commercial area, infonally called the Saratoga Gateiray, is Located in the center of the Blue Hills Area. Saratoga- unnyvale Road (;fate Route 85) traverses the center of this shopping area and goes on to form part of the boundary of areas A, B, and E. Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road, Cox Avenue and Prospect are major arterials serving Area C. Arroyo de Arguello/Via Roncole and Seagull 1--lay are the only designated collector streets in the area. The Southern Pacific railroad tracks and FG&E towers cut diagonally across the area from west to east. Although the Blue Hills Area has a uniform residential density and a predominantly residential character, it is bisected by the cormxorcial strip which extends from the intersection at Prospect in the north to the point where Saratoga - ,Sunnyvale Road crosses the Southern Pacific railroad tracks in the south. The site on the southeast corner is developed as a mixed use planned development with 36,000 square feet of commercial space and 65 condominium townhouses. There is a similar mixed use on the west of Saratoga- ;;unnyvale Road along the creek with 18,000 square feet of commercial space and 51 condominiums. The Azule Shopping Center abutting the railroad tracks has been remodeled and expanded with 40,000 square feet of co:rnercial space. In order to provide a positive and distinctive "gateway" to Saratoga, there should be an emphasis on strict design regulation and F i -2- ordered open space enhanced by extensive landscaping. In time, this theme should be carried across to the southwest corner by replacing the existing service station with appropriate landscaping. Access to Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road should be controlled by tree - shielded frontage roads. The gateway area should be further delineated by the installation of landscaped median strips. South of the commercial area, the east side of Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road between the railroad tracks and the Cox- 'Jardell intersection has been developed as residential, single- family homes (R1- 12,500). Across Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road between the railroad tracks and Manor Drive, is a small parcel which abuts a lower density (R1- 12,500) single family residential development. This site is currently zoned Visitor Commercial and the existing use is heavy Commercial. This use permit is being terminated and the land should be re -zoned to extend the existing, adjacent single family residential density (Z1- 12,500). Single family use of the parcel would protect the residential character of the adjacent area and form a clear boundary for the gateUray commercial area on the north side of the Southern Pacific tracks - effectively confining the potential for strip devslopment along Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road. The Blue Hills Area is short of recreation and open space. Blue Hills School facilities provide recreation opportunities for those east of Saratoga - .`Sunnyvale Road. The City of ns the Azule Park site, abuttinq the school grounds on the east; however, the small orchard area provides some oven space but liL,g,le recreational use. Saratoga- .`)unnyvale is an effective barrier in preventing those on the west side from using these facilities. The Specific Plan for the Northwest Hillside Zone acknowledges C C 01 the need for a park west of Saratoga- .,linnyvale in desimating a park on the Fremont Union H.S. District land: This should be provided for at the time this land is developed. Access to Cox Avenue is controlled by reverse frontaFle (that is, homes are not built facing Cox) along the major portion of the street. This precludes many of the circulation problems created by increasing;. use of this crass -town access. New development in Areas A and B has increased traffic flaws along Arroyo de Arguello /Via Roncole. Completion of the road through the Parker Ranch should relieve some of this traffic pressure. PROPOSAIS 1. The rrateway commercial area along Saratoga- .Sunny-vale Road should be contained by the intersections of Prospect and the Southern Pacific Railroad tracks, 2. Action should be taken to enhance the appearance of the gateway area by improving the southwest corner of the ,aateiaay. Remodeling or redeveloping plans should include extensive landscaping and particular attention should be rriven to a parklike area on the corner. 3. The commercial development should be separated from traffic on Sara.toga- 5�unnyvale Road by tree - shielded frontarre roads wherever Possible. 4. landscaped center median strips should be installed on ^aratorra- :unn,valo as comm=ercial development proceeds in this area. 5. To maintain the low density residential character of the adjacent area, single family residential densities should be extended to the site on the west side of Saratoga- Sunnyvalo between the Southern Pacific tracks and 1 anor Drive. Area D - Triangle North The northern boundary begins at the West Valley Corridor Right -of -Way and Prospect Road, to Johnson Avenue then north to Brookhaven .Drive, to Saratoga Creek, then south along Prospect Road and east to Saratoga Avenue, Excluding a parcel southwest of Prospect Road and Saratoga Avenue, which is in the City of San Jose, the eastern boundary follows Saratoga Avenue to the Southern Pacific Railway tracks. The Southern boundary extends along the Southern Pacific Railway tracks to Cox Avenue and east along Cox Avenue to the West Valley Corridor Right -of- Way then north to Prospect Avenue. A retail commercial area, located on the south side of Prospect Avenue, extends from Lawrence Expressway to and includes the Big Tree shopping center (west of Saratoga Avenue). Single family detached residences predominate in Area D with 1696 recorded as of June 1; 1980. The only condominium development, consisting of 165 units, is located on Saratoga Avenue,, south of the West Valley Corridor Right-of-Way. Professional and administrative buildings are located at the southwest corner of Saratoga Avenue and Cox Avenue. The vacant parcel to the Immediate south was zoned professional and administrative in the• -1974 General Plan. Future development of this parcel should be restricted to single story buildings, well landscaped and with adequately screened setbacks from the street. Adequate off- street parking to be provided. There are two churches and one synagogue on Prospect Road. City parks in Area D are Brookglen, Kevan Moran and Congress Springs. Schools include Prospect High School, Hansen and Brookview elementary schools. The elementary schools currently are not operated as public schools. Since these school sites may no longer provide open recreational uses,�Congress \Springs-�<park: should be expanded. N A PG&E substation, adjacent to the electrical transmission line running parallel to the Southern Pacific Railway, is located at the railway crossing and Glen Brae Avenue. A Santa Cla2a County fire station is located at the Southern Pacific Railway crossing and Cox Avenue. Triangle North is almost fully developed. Resolution of the West Valley Corridor Right -of -Way use is of primary interest. Development of the 11.2 acres, Saratoga Avenue and Cox Avenue and Village Drive, zoned Professional - Administrative, and the 4.5 acres, Saratoga Avenue southwest of Lawrence Expressway, zoned R -1- 10,000 are appropriately zoned and should not be changed. Preservation of Brookview and Hansen school sites for future public school use is desired, however, if the sites are sold, use of the land should be restricted to R- 1- 10,000 zoning so that surrounding residential neighborhood is not impacted. \, Vehicle traffic has become a major factor in the residential areas, feeder streets and Saratoga Avenue. Land development is grossly affected by the capacity of the streets to move people and material. The,Pincipal streets that have borne the brunt of increased traffic are Prospect Road, Saratoga Avenue, Cox Avenue, Miller Avenue and Saratoga Creek Drive. Traffic control has been somewhat improved by the installation of stop signs. 3 r Proposals \ 1. Saratoga Avenue shall be maintained in a manner that will distinguish the residential character of the City from the vast commercial centers established at the north boundary. This gateway to the City shall be attractively landscaped and posted with a suitable demarcation sign. 2. There is overwhelming opposition to roadway construction in the West Valley Right -of -Way Corridor. Light rail transportation should be considered. Since almost all of the corridor lard has been acquiredin Saratoga, Area D supports pedestrian pathways and bicycle trails and city park sites. Unified pedestrian- bicycle access could extend from Quito Road to Prospect Road, passing through Areas C, D and E, by using the corridor. 3. The City shall support the existing plan for extending Congress Spring Paris into the West Valley Right -of -Way Corridor. 4. If residential development occurs in the West Valley Right -of -Way l —Corridor, it shall be compatible with adjacent neighborhoods.:-The City shall acquire easements for pedestrian pathways and bicycle trails. 5. Condominium zoning should be extended from the Vineyards south through the vacant parcel into the West Valley Right -of -Way Corridor with the provision for light rail development, pedestrian and bicycle pathways. 6. Brookview and Hansen School sites shall be restricted to R -1- 10,000 zoning if sold. 7. Underground utilities should be provided for future developments. 8. The 4.5 acres located at Saratoga Avenue southwest of Lawrence Expressway shall remain zoned R -1 -10 *000, single family detached residential. I 4 9. The 11.2 acres, located at the southwest corner of Saratoga Avenue and Cox Avenue, shall remain zoned Professional- Adminstrative. Future development of this parcel shall be restricted to single story buildings, well landscaped and with adequately screened setbacks from the street. Adequate off - street parking shall be provided, 10. The City should annex the small parcel, currently belonging to San Jose, adjoining the service station at the southwest corner of Lawrence Expressway and Saratoga Avenue. 11. Vacated school interim uses shall not create problems, excessive noise and shall provide adequate off - street parking. Business licenses shall not be issued for the conduct of any business that disrupts the residential character of the neighborhood or disturbs the homeowners. All activities shall comply with the surrounding neighborhood standards, i 12. A suitable street traffic control system shall be installed on Prospect Road for the safety of Prospect High School students. AREA E A Description and. Proposal for Future: Development Description: Number of Dwelling Emits in Area E Type: No. Single- family Dwellings 1696 Condominiums 71 Rental Apts./Duplexes 20 Total 1787 Area E is bounded by Cox Avenue and the Southern Pacific tracks on the no Saratoga Avenue on the east and south, and Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road on the Woest, The dominant land use in Area E is low density, single family residential. There are a few remaining vacant parcels in Area E along the east side of Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road. The majority of these vacant parcels are now orchards. Some of these percels have recently been developed. One is Tract 6199 (16 lots) on Tricia Way. The other is a 4 lot subdivision,recently approved,at the end of Cunningham Place. The Area contains three elementary schoolsv Argonaut, Congress Springs and St. Andrews;;and Saratoga High School. The neighborhood includes two churches: St. Andrews Episcopal and Irm=uB3i.,. Lutheran, Existing parks are immediately adjacent in Area D. Area E is adequately served by open space and recreation areas In school playgrounds. These playgrounds,are dispersed enough to provide convenient recreation access to'all neighborhood residents, their children and grand- children. There are two commercial centers in the Triangle South. Ore is on Saratoga" Sunnyvale at Blauer (Argonaut).and one at the intersection of Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road and Saratoga Avenue (Neal's Hollow). The second of these is traversed by Saratoga Creek with commercial uses north of the creek and professional uses_ designated for south of the creek. Behind this commercial - professional area are some multiple residential units. The multiple development has been fairly well limited by the single family development on the north side. The multiple develop- ment should be allowed to expand further on a project by project basis. Open space in the southern portion of the Triangle is provided through the existing schools and the predominant large lot size. The adjacent mountains and the Saratoga Creek bed provide some open space. The use of a portion of the freeway right- of-way as a park (Congress Springs) accessible from the P.G.&E, right- of-way is a valuable addition to the Triangle South's environment. Even though this park and others are not in the area, proximity makes them readily available to all neighborhood residents. I ' Faf;e Z. Area E Proposal for the Future: The southern corner of the area should be reviewed as possible site*• for' additional multi - family housing units. The proximity of this area to public transportation, to highway S, tb:•Saratoga Avenue, to the Village, to commercial and professional facilities, to libraries and churches make this a highly satisfactory area for such developments. Prepared by: Ann Marie Berger Frank Cudy Mary Terese Pollard Bert Toevs.. �r�,L jp,lti' ►i5� No Af WON@IPAOU We'P� 1. The southern corner of the arealshould be reviewed as possible sites for additional multi - family housing units. The proximity of this area to public transportation, x-d highway 8,,td Saratoga Avenue,,.t6 the Village, �W commercial and professional facilities, libraries and churches make this a highly satisfactory area for such developments. 2. A stoplight should be installed at Blauer and Saratoga - Sunnyvale road since this has become a highly traveled intersection. 3. Congress Springs school property, adjacent to the Southern Pacific Railroad and close to a P.G.B. E. Substation and highway 85 right -of- way, should be reviewed as a possible site.for first class mulitple housing units. 4. The City owned open space at the intersection of Cox and Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road should be considered for a HotelPIotel or Town House type development. 5. The freeway right -of -way should be preserved in its entirEty for eventual use as an Expressway, or a bi -modal transportation route. 7, 7 e :it.. ur:e -i S I'- _ I doc', Ithe L orth a ncd east by uito car!, on the south 'Iv the .4 Scutli-ern :;c i -.,Za-iir(- ad (.�_;1211) , ai,.d cn the ,vest by "a. rri tc. J Avenue. The majcrit-1 of:' UJ Lie i---- tlie la Le lq/�_Ols a-,*d eurly T, ()e rcc-cm-in at_ t u s C f 3 101 U ,e, rea is the :_-�ost d_�versii`ed, 4n the ci ti- s oi.�-: iitClu�3try, the _Paul .'�;aSsor.L -at:) eive'rue t e bas --recently- 'Leen 0� U..j- u I is !,,�ca te", :,,(f vJ -,ioli,�'Oborl,3ood shc.1L;I ceitors w'- J ch a n1 a r, - C'? ar.tj. 4 S C 0 -.- -,- te vith �L- mall, 2 banIks and a �,rocery store. Anot"ner of these local -L. -, I e . " u C1- u se2.7.rice cente-rs is loca-rea, on j, ui tbo Road near t1n.e railroad crossJL'n,1,,1-. E! -_, ui to Park Schcol, ieaced lly t'llie Coumzu,• N,**' th'O multi-`D&Ilclica� :P-d lro, r �am, 2 churc�es, .VI and one :.:ar:- alsu sei7,,e the residents of 'lais area, Adjac:entul to t1he SPIRE axid t'.,.-)e !-Uz-L� u is a rIcl.,LJbn of the procosed Valley Free.wav ri-Int-of—va.y. The major iri ��Jnis nei.,bborhood are Cox and two v.,-bicli fo rT- its boundaries - Sar2to-ra. I _1 LI %) i i e v.1' o s t c -, a -, 1e E c) d e v e i o 1, e d, the Z u _J t o arc a. c o n taiT 1 s so ill e -p la n n i ri.- pr o bi em, s. Orle of t'+e .,CS t ci` these 1. Tob1elas is evidencCe of i�naintenazlce Ln souiie of V:ie older rei,-hborhcod• in the area. 1,�,_4(ience Of y,00r st-r,,_-,ctura'L ana i'I1•-_L-a_IL converSioi-;s is coikluounded in T.-tany ,_aces by poor street maintenance and StrDnL r:e_J_11.borhood orI-anizations, strict code enforce!iient and 4 1- !,rC, - eded to -A the--.e older n-e.t:�h,!,o:LIhood:z mi 'n is n.e e ,-raver be Go, rl t , J: CO Of :`p v,nant a oa viIII as `Seni-l- Tiie a =ol is r_culmjnei, J,�'Ci for d:Dvol-ornont, ;Nit'i, Of `11,.-sel,;o 3i 1-:::S on IE*aL,,t--_a i-ei,tie Eic'in- ll ard a at-i�_,n, 'Le _2.ven tc Dn tll-ese Sites -.-.-;o rite C-1 - _-Ae _ . 33 `a::iand Co]. -U'i a c!,mIrJ_-,La'Jcja of land uses ro e s ioi, a 1 , acL.-, i S ra '- i.r e ad d ! �1 u 1 I.-i 1; 1 c- tia effectively U r e Is i � d e, n LI - 1. L� Order U 2e�.,'UIQ 'Uc -.:I�xcd uses, a ._reuise 1,laz--_ snouid be a Ip o v e,,- r i to develo-,.r(ent, One of the 2 service st::tic-;,__Is has been rei)la.cecl C,rith an, office r-r)-ilplax - ol)!;c)site the ti ui Go confer. EU -1 t U _j :<ce,,D-'- �cr the elemertar, school north of the Si;.`IR tra.c."ks and a situ' park. site at the U L Ij El zZuito Park School, o--pen space and developed recreation area is very limited This is r a r 1-1 i cut 1-2 rly serious since rosid.entia.l densities, her--• are amon} the Icii:,best in the cites.' T'.e 'LacI, of develoced ra=eaat-ion aroas maiies the creation of the fray and bicycle trails park lii,,k ve-22y ii-f1portant to tills area. Tbrou..,--h much of this area the -fill have to be used; the. City- should, cbtain a recreation, trail a.-.d i.at'(l%-:@,Y easoments 'u"nrou-sh the pro"o,sed freeway propertir beftre d(_-vel:.o--,.,71pnt is ]:ermitted. Tl%,o of -'.Ie r1a:cr trJfi�_- Carrie--s f-o'--in, its bol-ndaries The iqost critical of these. isNLlito 1 6 1.. 1 IV - Lr"I Rd. 7-lis zcd used b -s drivin College from toe L - - y studernit . - _; to lNest Valle.; __�q - northeast. The Count,-;''s nned imroveraent of the Lawrence Ex!press,,,.,--.,y to six lanes .pla 41 will pace a.dditional. 1-)ressure on Q uito -Rd. fcr tl-irou�h:-traff_ic to !Li_--h,,-ra.j 9 Sal -a Los Gatos 11d. ) and for traffic desirir:`-, access to Car-pbell and I.ionte Sere-no, A stl.103 should be dc-ne of 'this area to deteri-.1 ne methods to increase safety and intprove tral:'I'iC f lo C _irrcnt trsf fic Ijams and C}1 ;h. of trnaffi L Osi;, tbe of -,tuito necess- itate itz; upr:�dea. One local for 4 a rei Li%-Oi- 4 1 y ✓ _;Ie S el-Lti rc -ei hCor`llccc! a. , �, .,....to a are:. anc; a t';zjor a_`U-i?rJLalj. `iiu -:s olte of T.,_ie ar;,_s- ne,ie('�t is now !-._r2o !-_re!zada le cu, -L r2,C -1, -1 If : tl F; "a i -,= C t S t t j 1. 7. i�.C.. _ 1.. i:_:" , -iL11 1.:'es, i_', tht ui to iuie_, • hou Id Z:s z o 1� +? 1e'tieC:. �. y' _ J_ I; :f'. i! ..__ ..'?' j3 _ 2' -naUn O. :Yi`CrLOrI'!Cu� C 111'.`.:c3t10:. , ii U'a i�r]_O'� rove i:`:1:,11C �c'C_i_�? i,ie`� in the cid:?r, dei:slt�; no .LG_:' ✓' iY 'i;!,i C : ea.. 3. In :C v 1, c r::iiT ;;ar to r.eC on e southeast side O:. 'S@ra. -ova i.denue u title -en an:: Cc L enues should be devel.oYed only undeY' conditions of unifo=,,I d si-n a`?�' ";1 -th Cc;nsideration ;liven UO. combined land uses. 5ualn �:lanned devel�:.Ient _rofessiuna -L, a.C?:a_fniStrative, nid Tnultii,1e re.sldent -Lal land Uses, eszec- ire lOr t;`3r_Ors. 2rt1Cuiar attention Stouldt be liven to Al'.'_dsca.pinsr, access, 1 :ai %:ir- - a . lte co, er? e. 1 T11_- area Ineetii, Lidlca-ted -the residents Overvihel 2ir:rly parcel. a-- !� C 1 ± a 7 ,o e r e j �f. 5. :ie:..�.._: i.? the ui o area srlc'uld be deve.loy u in t ] ain s -r.,,l pies �?s the exi.-tir=:' a.cl.,],'wacent develpv 'ent. �00, . _ stno!. u, id iYtve:?tl� ate use Of the Ili -�'E ri,,i,t- of- It ?7ur as a ILn_ , in the redestria.n '? ,r' -1 tr21U 11YCaL far i. 'COt11d Drt 1Cv of tC'e . t : _ _ Or0_L•ostad freeimy t.:.'Veloi;ed, easemeiits for the llneo.r :ark should to obtained in a.dvnnc:.2. studied. to d.etei -i-fie the ty.,e of ,_t1=.L:rove,nent required to into ?rove +- ,..... eI _ =• -u: - _11(1 be included in the Cit,--rlo Uel =c..t Street Sj-st-em. as a local collector. IPD-Mixed Use designation indicates areas for which a precise plan must be approved prior to development. Said plan shall include density, architecture, site layout, landscaping, access, circulation and parking. The review procedure for the precise plan should be the same as for a rezoning, in-, eluding Public hearings by the Planning Commission and City Council. Mixed uses shall include a cor:ibinaLion of professional- administrative, commercial-and multiple residenLial• The existing zoning on the property is the underlying zone and ' should be considered to be the zone until an acceptable PD -Mixed Use plan is sub - mittcd and approved by the City. 2PD- Residential desictjr.aiion indicates areas in which a precise plan must be approvecl m/ prior to devclop!:rcnt. Said plan shall include densit P P layout, lon,isca,in�t y, architecture, site layout, ( .,, access, circul<rtion anti parking. The revic',i procedure for the precise plan should be the, Sane Co-::Mission and as for a rezoning, including public hearings by the Planning CiLy CciunciI. The existing residential zoning is the underlying, zone and t•:ouI(I he considered to be the zoning until an acceptable PD- Residential plan is sub::ii t tcd anu approvctl by tho C i ty. / ' that every home should show a reasonable degree of \ - maintenance and care. The owners of the few homas that do not exhibit a reasonable degree of maintenance, care and appearance should take steps to make the ' improvements~ Recognizing that some owners need encouragement to take these steps the neighborhood organization most remain strong and continue it's thus far successful efforts in improving the neighborhood appearance* The City most also continue to work with the neighborhood association as it has all along, toward achieving this end, The , . City and the neighborhood organization working as partners have already produced substantial area _ improvement but more remains to be done^ The neighborhood association mat not be successful in bringing all the homes op to a level of reasonable maintenance, care and appearance despite it's best efforts^ When this occurs the city should take appropriate measures against any - owners of homes exhibiting a callous neighborhood disregard for a reasonable degree of maintenance, care, and appearance. If such actions are not taken' the area will decline and eventually show evidence of blight. Open space and developed recreation areas are �_. non existent in 'this area, It is therefore \ ' ` essential that a pedestrian pathway and bicycle ' ' path be developed across Quito Rd^ from this are into the center of Saratoga. This would allow access to El Quito Park, the library, Montalvo, and other recreation available in Saratoga. ' The major traffic carriers in the Sonland Park area form it's boundaries* The most critical of these is Quito Road. Quito Road is heavily used b� commuters and students driving to Nest Valley College, A center torn lane (third lane) on Quito Road from Cox Avenue to McCoy Ave. should increase the flow of traffic and safets through the area. Newls painted crosswalks at McCou and Quito and \ \ . Paseo Lado and Quito would facilitate bicycle and pedestrian crossings of Quito Road. The side of Quito Road should be beautified to upgrade the present appearance of this portion of the road, The trees and paracantha adjacent to the "Quito" fence should be trimmed on a regular bases with the fence repaired where 6eeded^ The present bicycle path should be repaved^ Appropriate new landscaping should also be pot in on the side of the road, Quito Road should be designated as a Heritage Lane to permaoentls retain it's unique and scenic qualities~ ( \- PROPOSALS 1~ Sonland Park should continue with it's existing neighborhood association and it's efforts to ' upgrade and maintain neighborhood appearance. The neighborhood associaiton will look for city support in this regard wheh problems arise which are beuond the scope of the association to solve. 2° The City should restripe the crosswalks at McCoU and Quito and Paseo Lado and Quito, 3, The Citu should study the feasibility Of painting a center torn lane down Quito Road through this area. If it is determined that such a center turn lane will indeed increase traffic flow and safety on Quito such a center lane should be installed. In any event a left hand torn lane should be installed on Quito for left hand turns ' onto Paseo Lado^ This will eliminate the present safety hazards and bottlenecks that now exist when such turns are oade^ 1. The side of Quito Road should be beautified through regular maintenance of the existing `�- . ^ \ ` landscaping and the addition of new landscaping, . The present bicycle path should be repaved^ Quito Road should be designated as a Heritage Lane, 5^ Ba"lur Avenue and McCoy Avenue should be ' designated as City arterials or local collectors (to become eligible for additional tax money.) \ � ( `� ' This document supersedes earlier draft, Y Received 10/28/81 r r jj -1 10/26/81 AREA L - KENTFIELD Area L, Kentfield, is bounded on the north by the Southern Pacific railroad tracks, West Valley Transportation Corridor and the PG &E right -of -way, on the west by Saratoga and Fruitvale Avenues, on the south by Allendale and Pollard Road, and on the east by San Thomas Creek. Ouito Road forms westerly boundaries for a small portion of the area and Vasona Creek, an all -year creek of special environmental value, connects to Wildcat Creek in the northeastern corner of the planning area. This area is almost completely developed. The northern and eastern portions of this area have predominant quarter -acre (R1- 10,000) zoning. The more recently developed southwest portion has half --acre (R1- 20,000) zoning, and is separated from the older residential area by an intermediate portion that has one -third acre (R1- 12,500) zoning. Without exception, the land here is developed for single- family detached residential use. To preserve the areas's integrity it is essential that this low density single- family detached residential character be maintained throughout the entire area. Development of the few remaining parcels must therefore conform to the density and intensity limitations of their adjacent neighborhoods. , The only major undeveloped sites are adjoining parcels at the southeast corner of Saratoga and Fruitvale Avenues. Their development will be a major factor in determining not only the overall character of this portion of the planning area, but also the additional traffic at, and the future appearance of, this congested intersection. To give cohesiveness to the planning area, these sites should be developed for low - density single- family detached residential use (R1- 20,000), in conformity with adjacent parcels. Such use would avoid aggravating an already serious traffic and congestion problem at the intersection. Ronnie way shall not be developed through to Saratoga or Fruitvale Avenues, thereby preventing intrusion of heavy traffic into the area's residential streets. The development of these parcels will have a significant visual effect. The pleasant open space look which these orchards have afforded the City should be preserved, insofar as possible, through attractive landscaping and adequate setbacks. The major traffic carriers which form the boundaries of the Kentfield area create serious planning problems. Saratoga Avenue, Fruitvale Avenue, Quito Road and Allendale Avenue are heavily travelled by West Valley College students and residents of the city. Bicyclists and pedestrians also use these routes but are not well. accommodated. Adequate pedestrian pathways and bicycle trails should be completed wherever possible along these routes. r� PAGE 2 10/26/81 Many intersections are impacted by the traffic generated by West Valley College, including Saratoga /Fruitvale, Fruitvale. /Allendale, Quito /Allendale and Quito /Pollard. The -intersection of Saratoga and Fruitvale has especially serious traffic and safety problems, arising from its design and close proximity to the community college, junior high school and other public buildings. The proposed intersection of Quito and Westmont could create additional traffic congestion on Ouito Road. The safety of pedestrian and bicycle traffic at these intersections is not resolved. Adjacent to the railroad and utility right -of -way which form the northern border of the area is a portion of the proposed ,lest Valley Freeway right -of -way. It is recommended that this land be used for a combination of open space, linear part and single- family dwellings. Adequate provision should be made for pedestrian pathways and bicycle trails. Gardner Park is a city park on the north side of Wildcat Creek at Portos near Harleigh. No further development of the park is necessary. I" PAGE 3 10/26/81 POLICIES (AREA L - KENTFIELD) 1. Future development in the Kentfield area shall be limited to single - family detached residential densities. Planned developments, condominiums, townhouses or apartments shall not be permitted in this planning area. 2. Undeveloped land shall neither be divided nor newly developed at densities greater than half -acre single- family residentia'1 (R1- 20,000). Density and intensity of development shall be consistent with, but shall not exceed, that of the surrounding or adjacent neighborhood. 3. Any redevelopment shall be single - family detached residential at densities equal to or less than the zoning which exists at the time of this writing (July, 1981) . 4. If the land at the southeast corner of Saratoga and Fruitvale Avenues is developed, it shall be for low- density single- family detached residential uses (R1- 20,000), thereby providing consistency with the adjacent neighborhood and also minimizing traffic and congestion problems. Ronnie Way shall not provide a cut- through route to Fruitvale or Saratoga Avenues. 5. Any development of the land at the southeast corner of Saratoga and Fruitvale Avenues shall include appropriate landscaping and \ setback requirements so as to preserve the open space appearance of this portion of the area. 6. Continued effort shall be made to reduce traffic volumes in this planning area. 7. The City shall use the proposed freeway right -of -way for a combination of low- density single- family detached residential uses, linear park and_ open space. Provision shall be made for pedestrian pathways, bicycle trails and natural landscaping. 8. Circulation shall be improved throughout the planning area for pedestrians and bicyclists. Quito Road shall have a bicycle path completed along its length. Allendale shall have a bicycle path completed along its length and the pedestrian route shall also be completed where there is space. The Fruitvale bicycle route shall be widened, improved and a pedestrian route provided. 9. New lanes of traffic shall not be added to any through streets within the planning area. 10. Quito Road shall be designated a heritage lane. Native oaks shall be planted along the length of Quito Road wherever they have been removed. The grafted walnut trees along Quito in this planning area will require eventual removal and preparation PAGE 4 10/26/81 should begin for appropriate native-walnut or oak replacement trees. 11. Quito Road and Allendale Avenue shall be considered first priority in the City's underground power conversion program. 12. The creeks of this planning area are San Thomas, Wildcat and Vasona. Projects along these creeks shall be required to ' stabilize creek banks with appropriate vegetation and to restore the tree overstory. 13. Gardner Park shall have no additional services and /or facilities. To -Rob iohinson RECEIVED. Fro!u Ka thy ;,.cCcldrick NOV 4196i. Ile Additior_s to the � ui to ,rorosa.ls (,tctiui. flan) PLANNING POLICY. ANALYSIS " Ir 3 Cont. (Leave the first sentence. ... �o,!ibined land uses.) (Strike out the next sentence: Such plaruied ...for Seniors.`Lea.ve the next sentence excel t for the footnote reference mark. larticular... coveY•a,;e. ) The area meet-in indicated that the residents overvrhelmir�_:ly object to another shorpind center or this parcel. To l,revent any industrial or commercial use of the l.roperty, they re.Iuest a chaii-e of zoning which �•;ould allo,.v residential at same density at)-adjacent prolerties, or multiple dwelli i,;s for seniors. They would not object to executive offices. Addi tions: r 9. The �•rolferty o ;:ned by Paul ;!dasson and zoned commercial shall be rezoned to residontial. i._oreover, the t uito lioineowrier's Assoc. shall be contacted ii_ Wfiti.i,' bef ora fu =thee development of this �,rcl erty. 10. The El uito lark shall be purchased from the bl.,orela.ld School District and maintained ;Spp; ; r since it is the oLly of.en in a. densely populated area, of the c ty. 11. Noise aud. sanitation codes re.. the Park ai1Ct di.to Shopy ink Center areas shall be strictly enforced. 12. peaeatrian side ralk shall be ir_otalled from. 1'aseo Lido to the ) uito Shopl,ing Center. 13. ill )ro o.sed. future development, traffic. statistics etc. shall be shared in writi _, with the tfcmeomiers Assoc. 14. The roads in the ,� uito area will be brought up to the same standara as the other are: s 0." Sara: to_;a l;. 8ejardir, the leasing in the .,� uito Snoppin ;, Center - there shall be no ;tames arcade or arty establlshv!ent which enc.oura --es the sellin of alcoholic beveraUes to minors. lo. The utilities for all new building in this area are to be underground. 17. `T1 e city shall study the traffic problem at Zuito acid ',lest::ont as to the feasibility of a turr -kind. .. •.. � • RE,GELV ED This document supersedes earlier draft. 2 19 1 Received 10/28/81 ALYSIS pOLIC_Y.10 /2 6/81 AREA L`- KENTFIELD Area L, Kentfield, is bounded on the north by the Southern Pacific railroad tracks, West Valley Transportation Corridor and the PG &E right -of -way, on the west by Saratoga and Fruitvale Avenues, on the south by Allendale and Pollard Road, and on the east by San Thomas Creek. Ouito Road forms westerly boundaries for a small portion of the area and Vasona -Creek, an all -year creek- of special environmental value, connects to Wildcat Creek in the northeastern corner of the planning area. - This area is almost completely developed. The northern and eastern portions of this area have predominant quarter -acre (R1- 10,000) zoning,. The more recently developed southwest portion has half -acre (R1- 20,000) zoning, and is separated from the older residential area ..,by an intermediate portion that has one -third acre (R1- 12,500) .zoning. _ Without exception, the land here is developed for single - family detached residential use. To preserve the areas's integrity it is essential that this low density single - family detached residential character be maintained throughout the entire area. Development of the few remaining parcels must therefore conform to the density and intensity limitations of their adjacent.neighborhoods. The.only major undeveloped sites are adjoining parcels at the southeast corner of Saratoga and Fruitvale Avenues. Their development will be a major factor in determining not only the overall character of this portion of the planning area, but also the additional traffic at, and the future appearance of, this congested ec'+�'�'��N-5intersection. SH/7LL- To give cohesiveness to the planning area, these sites -.hoa±eI be developed for low- density single - family detached residential use (R1- 20,000), in conformity with adjacent parcels. Such use would avoid aggravating an alreAdy serious traffic and congestion problem at the intersection. Ronnie way shall not be developed through to Saratoga or Fruitvale Avenues, thereby preventing intrusion of heavy traffic into the area's residential streets. The development of these parcels will have a significant visual effect. The pleasant open space look which these orchards have afforded the City should be preserved, insofar as possible, through attractive landscaping and adequate setbacks. The major traffic carriers which form the boundaries of the Kentfield area create serious planning problems. Saratoga Avenue, Fruitvale Avenue, Quito Road and Allendale Avenue are heavily travelled by West Valley College students and residents of the city. Bicyclists and pedestrians also use these routes but are not well accommodated. Adequate pedestrian pathways and bicycle trails should be completed wherever possible along these routes. ,.. PAGE :r, 10/26/81 Many intersections are impacted by the traffic generated by West Valley College, including Saratoga / Fruitvale, Fruitvale./Allendale, Quito /Allendale and Ouito /Pollard. The intersection of Saratoga and Fruitvale has especially serious traffic and safety_ problems, arising from its design and close proximity to the community college, junior high school and other public buildings. The proposed intersection of Quito and Westmont could create additional ' traffic congestion on Ouito Road. The safety of. pedestrian and bicycle traffic at these intersections is not resolved. Adjacent to the railroad and utility right -of -way which form the grthe.rn border of the area is a portion of the proposed West Valley �) ev" �right -of -way. It is recommended that this land be used for a / combination of open space, linear parKand single- family dwellings. Adequate provision should be made for pedestrian pathways and bicycle trails. Gardner Park is a city park on the north side of Wildcat Creek at Portos near Harleigh. No further development. of the park is necessary. PACE 3 10/26/81 POLICIES (AREA L - KENTFIELD) _. 1. Future development in the Kentfield area shall be .limited to single- family detached 're:sidential densities. Planned - developments, condominiums, townhouses or apartments shall not be permitted in this planning area. 2. Undeveloped land shall neither be divided nor newly developed at densities greater than half -acre single- family residential (R1- 20,000). Density and intensity - of -development shall be consistent with, but shall not exceed, that- of the surrounding -" or adjacent neighborhood. ' 3. Any redevelopment shall be single - family detached residential at densities equal to or less than the zoning which exists at the time of this writing (July, 1981). 4. If the land at the southeast corner of Saratoga and 'Fruitvale Avenues is developed, it shall be for low- density single - family detached residential uses •(R1- 20,000), thereby providing consistency with the adjacent neighborhood and also minimizing traffic and congestion problems. Ronnie Way shall not provide a cut- through route to Fruitvale, or Saratoga Avenues. 5. Any development of the land at the southeast corner of Saratoga and Fruitvale Avenues shall include appropriate landscaping and setback requirements so as to preserve the open space appearance of this portion of the area. 6. Continued effort shall be made to reduce traffic volumes in this planning area. A ��/� L s�f'P °� i S Ifs NSA off_ �i�� 7 �?,- �Y -6a 1z—u:� �,, ., , a �$;,�ay - y//�� for a combination of low - density single- family detached residential uses, linear park and, open space. Provision shall be made for pedestrian pathways, bicycle trails and natural landscaping. 8. Circulation shall be improved throughout the planning area for pedestrians and bicyclists. Quito Road shall have a bicycle path completed along its length. Allendale shall have a bicycle path completed along its length and the pedestrian route shall also be completed where there is space. The Fruitvale bicycle route shall be widened, improved and a pedestrian route provided. 9. New lanes of traffic shall not be added to any through streets within the planning area. /1 10. Quito Road shall be& designat-e� heritage lane. Native oaks shall be planted along the length of Quito Road wherever they have been removed. The grafted walnut trees along Quito in this planning area will require eventual removal and preparation � f t PAGE 41 10/26/81 should begin for appropriate native walnut or oak replacement trees. 11. Quito Road and Allendale Avenue, shall be considered £rrst- priority in the City's underground power conversion program. 12. The creeks of this planning area are San Thomas, Wildcat and - Vasona. Projects along these creeks shall be required to ' stabilize creek banks with appropriate vegetation and- to restore the tree overstory. 13. Gardner Park shall have no additional services .and /or' facilities. AREA DESCRIPTION AREA G - FRUITVALE -SOBEY ROAD The Fuuitvale -Sobey Road area is bounded by Allendale-Quito- Pollard on the north, Quito Road and city limits on the east, Saratoga -Los Gatos Road to the south and Fruitvale avenue on the west. One acre residential development predominates; however, since the last general plan update, several hundred high density units have been built on the Odd Fellows property including approximately 150 subsidized units. There still remains considerable undeveloped land made up of rolling hills and chaparral. Any further high density development in this open land threatens to change the predominant low density.single- family character of Area G. Other land uses include two schools, Marshall Lane Elementary and West Valley College, two churches along Allendale and the Odd Fellows complex of buildings off San Marcos in the eastern portion of the Fruitvale -Sobey Road area. Much of Area G is included in the city's equestrian zone, which permits residents to keep horses on their property. The Fruitvale -Sobey Road area is encircled by arterials. Collectors within the area are Sobey Road and Chester /ten acres. The major traffic generation in the area is West Valley College in the northwest corner. Future development of the Fruitvale -Sobey Road area should be restricted to very low density single- family homes in order to preserve the character of the'area and the strong w�_shes of the area residents. An important part of the orderly development calls for the city to change its policy regarding use permits or variances that would allow even further high density develop- ment. There is no publicly owned open space or recreation areas in the Fruitvale -Sobey Road area. However, the existing orchards and large parcels associated with residential development reduce the need for public open space. The continued use of the Com- munity Gardens, and the proposed equestrian trail, which may also serve as a hiking trail, could provide a valuable public recrea- tion resource in this area. The Fruitvale -Sobey Road area appears to be adequately served by arterials. Future trafic projections indicate that by 1990 Saratoga -Los Gatos Road, Quito Road and Fruitvale Avenue will be carrying significantly more traffic. Allendale and Fruitvale are already carrying substantial traffic loads. Plans to increase the capacity of Fruitvale, more safely, should be studied. The future need for improving Quito from Allendale to Saratoga - Los Gatos Road should also be studied. Current projections for State Hwy. 9 without the West Valley Freeway, indicate that Hwy. 9 will have to be made capable of handling average daily r traffic of 30,000 to 45,000 by 1990. Any improvements should not be detrimental to the scenic quality of this highway. Submitted by Robert H. Swanson �A July 23, 1981 PROPOSALS Area G Fruitvale -Sobey Road C 1. To protect the unique character of Fruitvale -Sobey Road area designated Area G, and to respond to the residents mandate, future development shall be very low single- family residential density. Sp cie fically one acre (R -1- 40000) shall be maintained. Any conflict- ing or ambiguous zoning within Area G shall be clarified to allow only single- family R- 1- 40000 development. 2. New development should be provided with adequate access to arterials but local access streets should be designed to prevent through traffic use. 3. The large parcel zoning of the Fruitvale -Sobey Road area reduces the need for public open space; the city might support an equestrian and hiking trailto provide some public recreation alternatives within the area. The city might investigate further permanent support of the commu- nity garden. 4. Fruitvale Avenue is presently a heavily travelled major road. Fruitvale is a dual roadway over only part of its length and residents are concerned about the safety aspects of the Fruitvale in its current condition. They are also concerned about resolving the safety issue but consistent with the strong desire to maintain the scenic quality that currently exists. 5. Within the next decade, Quito Road from Allendale to Saratoga -Los Gatos Road (Route 9) should be studied to determine if any improvement is needed and the best way to protect the scenic quality of this thoroughfare. 6. Current State Highway traffic projections indicate that the use of Saratoga -Los Gatos Road (Route 9) will be increased by 1990. Any improvements needed should be made in such a way as to mitigate problems of adjacent land uses and to protect the scenic quality of this highway. THE ABOVE IS THE RECOMMENDED SUMMARY DESCRIPTION FOR GENERAL PLAN OVERVIEW AS DETERMINED BY CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE Submitted by Robert H. Swanson Julv 23, 1981 c Area H - Fruitvale West Fruitvale West is bordered on the north by Saratoga Avenue, on the east by Fruitvale, on the south by Saratoga -Los Gatos Road and on the west by Park Place. Fruitvale West is a mixture of residential densities and orientations, interspersed with some vacant land. Wildcat Creek and several smaller unnamed tributaries o.f..Wildcat Creek meander through this area. Much of the core of the area is in orchard, but none of these orchards are under Agricultural Preserve. Residential densities vary from R1- 10,000 (4 per acre) to R1- 40,000 (1 per acre). One of the large orchards is zoned Agricultural with one corner zoned Planned Community. The lowest density residential area (1 unit per acre) is encompassed by Montauk Drive, Fruitvale, Saratoga -Los Gatos to the back of the lots on Horseshoe Drive. This area is almost completely developed and is similar in character to the adjacent Fruitvale -Sobey Road area. The higher density single family uses extend about three- quarters of the way along Saratoga Avenue toward the-Fruitvale intersection. The highest densities (R1- 10,000) are close to the Village, between Park Place and Lutheria Way, and tend to be oriented to the Village. The two units per acre development extends from Lutheria to the undeveloped parcels near the corner of Saratoga and Fruitvale Avenues. The Fruitvale West area contains one church, two schools: Sacred Heart and Redwood Junior High, l the Civic Center, the Youth Center, the Senior Citizens Center, \. the Post Office, the Library, and one undeveloped park (Central Park), i on Fruitvale adjacent to City Hall. The'new library occupies C a small percentage of this thirteen acre park,part of which is city orchard. As with the other areas, Fruitvale West is bounded by arterials; however, this area lacks through- collector streets. Future development in the area should be limited to single family residential.. The higher density (R1- 20,000) should be confined to the west side of Wildcat Creek and its major tributary. Flood plain zoning and protection should be observed in any development in this area. One acre single family residential density should be extended to the east bank of Wildcat Creek and its _major tributary. There is a s;iortage of public open space and recreation areas in the Fruitvale West area, particularly west of Wildcat Creek. As the orchards are developed, the absence of park areas will become more noticeable. The banks of Wildcat Creek and its tributaries should be protected for open space use wherever possible. Areas particularly prone to flooding might also be preserved and used for recreation purposes. Here ti?e large private lots provide visual relief and meet personal recreation needs. The Fruitvale West area is so tell served by peripheral artials that the need for a through- collector has been mitigated. Residents of the area express little concern for the inconvenience resulting from. the ahsence of a through-collector, and the Fire and Sheriff Departments report that the surrounding arterials provide sufficiently good access that a collector street is not necessary. Projections for avera;;e daily traffic on Saratoga -Los Gatos Road (Route 9) will probably require future attention to the intersection of Routes 9 and 85, Saratoga Avenue and Big Basin Way. Traffic drops off significantly on Saratoga Avenue north of Harriman Avenue. The major traffic generators, the churches, the college and high school, are south of or at Herriman Avenue. Therefore it is suggested that Saratoga Avenue be improved from Fruitvale to the intersection of Herriman Avenue. As part of the improvement, the paved area and moving lanes should be more clearly marked. Proposals 1. Future development in the Fruitvale West area should be limited to single- family residential uses. Areas of more than one unit per acre should be confined to the west side of Wildcat Creek and its major.tributary. ' ` 2. Flood Plain Zoning should.be strictly enforced in -the undeveloped area along Wildcat Creek and its tributaries. 3. To provide needed open space and passive recreation areas, the banks of Wildcat Creek and its tributaries should be preserved as open space and developed with pathways wherever possible. 4. Saratoga Avenue should be improved from Fruitvale to Herriman Avenue. Beyond Herriman Avenue the -travel lanes should be more clearly defined. 5. Traffic projections for Saratoga -Los Gatos Road indicate that the use of Saratoga -Los Gatos Road (Route 9) will be increased by 1990. Highway 9 has been designated a scenic highway and therefore any future expansion should not be allowed. Any improvements needed should be made in such a way as to mitigate problems of adjacent land uses and to protect the scenic quality of this highway. 6. The City should develop its park site adjacent to the Civic Center and Library to complement the full Civic Center concept C �Lss��, and to provide a develo�ed,,recreation area for residents. It should contain a grassy area, with a few shade trees and benches for outdoor reading. This would also serve as a gentle border between the orchard and the library. Update of Area I - Glen Una Meeting July 7, 1981 In attendance: Annie Aird Louise Schaefer Richard Rivoir Keith Miller 19874 Park Drive 20411 Hill Avenue 20420 Hill Raisa Kocher John DiMento Ed Bolger 15139 Park Drive 300 So. 1st Street Staff Advisor Recommendations for area update See attached area description In paragraph one (1) of area description include the proposed expansion of Hakone Gardens Parking area. (1) In paragraph two (2) there is an inconsistency between the general plan and the text pertaining to zoning. All factors such as slope, soil stability, rift zones, access and geological problems should be updated. Clarification of zoning remaining vacant parcels should be consistent with the general plan. In paragraph three (3) the term major collector road should be clarified. i.e. inconsistency between Park /Home vs. Montalvo pertaining to the words "major collector" Roads. The last sentence should be changed to read, Piedmont Lane is a private road maintained by area residents. Proposals 1. Clarify to correspond with the general plan. Add: 3. Oak Street School should be retained as an operating school. If it is necessary to close the school only "soft use" should be permitted. 4. Provide bike and walking paths wherever possible. 5. Draw up overall landscaping plan for Saratoga -Los Gatos and Saratoga - Sunnyvale Roads. i.e. plant trees to break up tunnel effect of sound barrier walls. 6. Safe access should be provided at Mendelsohn and Piedmont Lanes. .. .«.... , - . •. .. Area I G icn Una .� The Glen Una area is bordered by Saratoga-Los Gatos Road on the cast, the .. .. City boundary on the south and west and Madronia Cencntery on the north. Almost all of Glen Una is developed, or protected as open space. The dominant land use is single family residential which ranges in density from two units per acre to one unit per acre. The northern portion of Glen Una is relatively flat. However, the terrain becomes more steep to the south until, in some .. places, the City's maximum of forty percent slope for developable sites restricts •• - potential new development. The elevation of much of the southern portion of - k Area 1 is too high to be served by San Jose Water Works and is served by a CouH'rY :5.A rAvcxf Di S-nz1,=r Ne. y a C`e°wafc r company, trey sewer service extends throughout most of this area. All sites are served by electricity and telephone service. The Glen Una area contains the Sisters of Notre Dame Novitiate. In addition, there is a church fand Madronia Cemetery. The area is served by unique open space and'recreaLional iz ?t :;,'" Y,„ �2iy_.',� }'�; "_•rr ?.v;�•, �• ra�.i`�;;_ O iA,R -1c•5 �.oMnit rffor./ �'-•� opportunities --the Villa Montalvo County Arboretum and Hakone Gardens. San Jose IN OICATEA TNg7 T /:�( Water Works pumping station is located on Vickery Lane. Although much of the-rea t} To �ic'ptvlD j�eeyf -!� � -- • 2- A Pes r-Olt- Immediately adjacent to the City is developed in residential uses, one of the 'Crld/✓(s{ f,A(Z(Gll{h ��(GJ�, City's Urban Service Areas abuts the Glen Una area at Bohlman Road. The headwaters of Wildcat Creek are found In Area I and meander through It. Oie T s� Remaining vacant parcels In the Glen Una area should be developed at•the Rt- 40,000 Ar{-r pA94 -et- L 4A V e rGt4 PeVe1_OFVLD AT density; however, factors such as slope, soil stability, rift zones, access and geological problems should be considered before development Is permitted. . � f M FJ- (DEt- SOkLF� �h($I$'C FaliL7 �(V1 -f•� As with the other areas, Glen Una is bordered by arterials on two sides. I p however, unlike most of,the other areas,.residents of Glen Una have only --.�.x sw:•sba.„r....• �._f .� j ',limited access to these arterials, The major collector street" in the Gfen Una area are north -south oriented and provide access, to Villa Montalvo ✓ "' "" ' ""•'�. °'�'� Arboretum and the Sphere of Influence-- Park /Hume, Piedmont Lane and Bohi man y<= Road. The only east -west collector is Mendelsohn Lane. In recent years Piedront Lane and Montalvo Road have been made a one -way pair to accommodate ISO NTA L VO jXz$(L F/�T�f� \ trdffic to and from Villa Montalvo Arbore[un. Montalvo Road, unlike Piedmont, <i -% -'GO�LGL70(L Or'/ 7 T�(LIA No t0'/4lcL' ase-D is not part of the City's and should be added to the �L -A.,4 collector system Piedmont Lane is a - private road, Recently, Instead of creating an assessment district to bring —tim street up to City street standards, the residents collectively resurfaced --� ^ — ^• -• - the existing straet--a cheaper but short -term solution• ' Prnancals (. Lti�SISTaeFi�.iy ------ I Future develo pmen[ in the Glen Una area should be limited to single- , family residential densities at one unit per acre, except in those areas TWO ` I`7f� f�'�j�'� where slope, availability of City services, or vehicular access limit r q-•�t� development to lower densities. • �Cr-(� IO f•/ i! i7 G-�rt,}/� L 2• •ypntalvo Raj sMuld be designated as q local collector street. r C I DESCRIPTION - AREA "J" THE VILLAGE The Village is the historical center of Saratoga. Over time its function has changed, but the historic significance of the landmarks within it lend a rustic character and sense of the past of all of Saratoga. The Village area extends from Saratoga Creek on the north to Aloha Avenue and Madronia Cemetery on the south. Its eastern boundary is Saratoga -Los Gatos Road. The western boundary is Madronia Cemetery, extended to the rear lot lines at the end of Pamela Way and across Congress Springs Road to Saratoga Creek. As the historical center of Saratoga, the Village contains many import- ant landmarks of the past: Saratoga School, King Residence (Caldwell) on Big Basin Way, Henry Residence at 6th and Big Basin Way, the clapboard summer cottages on Oak Street, the Village Library, the old Garden City Bank on Big Basin Way, and the McCarthy Block (Kocher). More recent commercial development and uses sometimes overwhelm these important cornerstones, but the personality they lend remains. Today the Village area includes the Village branch of, the County Lib- rary, the Saratoga Fire District's Main Fire.Station, the Saratoga School on Oak Street and adjacent playgrounds, a convalescent hosp- ital, several new commercial buildings since the last general plan review, and a variety of densities of residential land uses, from single family residences through apartments and condominiums. Three of the four possible parking accessment districts have been formed on both sides of Big Basin Way, and a fourth parking accessment dist- rict is contemplated between the shops and the creek. Greater Auto- mobile dependence, residential development and increased recreation orientation have also increased the traffic volumes on Big Basin Way and Saratoga -Los Gatos Road. Residential land uses in the Village range from R1- 10,000 through multi - family developments of R -M -3,000 and R -M- 4,000. There are also apartments over and adjacent to shops on Big Basin Way. The strip behind the commercial area, facing onto Oak Street and Charles Street Was designated for higher density residential uses in previous General Area J - Page 1 Plans, and consideration for greater density for this area and at the end of Big Basin Way be made by this General Plan. Currently, this strip is occupied by old summer cottages interspersed with an occasion- al Victorian gingerbread, and with townhouses and apartments. Almost all of these lots are on considerable slope and are capable of support- ing multi -level structures. Oak Street /St. Charles Street appears to have been designated as the boundary between the more intense commer- cail- professional- res- idential uses of the Village and the lower den- sity, single family uses of surrounding Saratoga. In keeping with this function, the area between the southside of Oak Street /St. Charles Street and the north side of Aloha Avenue are zoned R1- 10,000 and Rl- 15,000. Today the commercial area of the village extends from just east of Saratoga- Sunnyvale /Saratoga -Los Gatos Roads, between the Saratoga Creek and just south of Oak Street, eastward to the end of Big Basin Way beyond Sixth Street, with Community Commercial (C -C) and Visitor Com- mericial (C -V). Within the Visitor Commercial condominiums are an accepted use with a Use Permit, and this area could be accepted as a quality condominium area to complete the use of the area. . ( Big Basin Way, which traverses the Village commerical area, is a local arterial and a State'Highway (Route 9). It is complemented by the convergence of three of the City's six arterials (Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road (Route 85), Saratoga Avenue, and Saratoga -Los Gatos Road (Route 9) at the east end of the commercial area. Within the Village access to these arterials is.provided by four collector streets; three are generally east /west (Third, Fourth, and Sixth Streets) and one is gen- erally north /south (Oak Street /Bohlman- Road). The variety of design and economic problems of the Village will be discussed in the Special Area Plan for the Village. In the General Plan the concern is focused on general land use, circulation and other related problems to the various general plan elements; and general policies and proposals for resolving these problems. The Special Area Plan will address them more specifically. Area J - Page 2. Over the years, the Village commercial area has been permitted to spread, extending the length of Big Basin Way as Visitor Commercial. Even though four blocks may not seem an excessive distance, the bend in Big Basin Way at Fifth Street provides a visual barrier, which makes the street seem longer and possibly out of sight of the main commercial section of the street. As advocated in the last General Plan the commerical development on Big Basin Way should be confined as much as possible to the area between the intersection of Big Basin Way at the east end of the street, and Fifth Street on the west, with the exception of the commercial uses already in existence past Fifth Street. This means changing the Commercial Visitor zoning to a multi- family residential zoning, with preference to greater density and higher quality units. At its eastern end, the existing commercial - professional uses con the west side of Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road from Brookwood Drive extended to Oak Place should not be permitted to extend. In addition, the mix of residential and commercial, with apartments over shops and condominiums, should be encouraged in the Village to stimulate community activity and provide a unique housing market for people who enjoy living close to the commercial and community center, and with a pedestrian focus along Big Basin Way. The Village has inherited some difficult circulation problems which defy easy solution. Big Basin Way currently has parking on both sides and two moving lanes of traffic. Turning and parking movements fre- quently slow through- traffic and obstruct peak -hour flows along this major access to the Sphere of Influence and park and recreational areas in the Santa Cruz Mountain area. Examination has revealed -that there are no acceptable alternative streets or routes to alleviate traffic problems on Big Basin Way. A modest alternative would be to redesign the street to create two through, unobstructed traffic lanes. This will assist in removing the parking from Big Basin Way and encour- age the use of the parking accessment district areas, Also stop lights might be installed at Fourth Street and Big Basin Way, and Oak Street and Saratoga -Los Gatos Road, to assist with the slowing of fast moving vehicles in the Village. Area J - Page 3. a A second major circulation problem in the Village results from shoppers arriving in the Village by car. Some additional parking areas have been provided by recent commercial developments. The final area avail- able for parking would be Parking Accessment District Four and with City assistance the critical parking problem would be assisted. This area would provide approximately 160 spaces, not only for community shopping- service funtion, but as an attractor of tourists and shoppers from beyond Saratoga. There is little open lots remaining in the Village without removing the existing structures, however by orienting buildings to both Big Basin Way and arcades behing, shopping traffic can be encouraged off Big Basin Way, freeing the street for through traffic. In order to preserve the unique character of the Village, the old summer houses on Oak Street and St. Charles Street should be retained. In places where this is not feasible, new buildings should blend-into and reinforce the clapboard sunner cottage appearance of -t--he area. The interface of densities along Oak Street /St. Charles Street is nol, -- ideal; therefore, all development on the north side should be reviewed with an eye to its impact on the single family unit on the south. side. The Village Area is.served by three parks: one adjacent to Saratoga School, one across Saratoga Creek at Fourth Street in Area B, and an island of open space at the intersection of Big Basin Way and Routes 85 and 9. These areas, plus the natural setting of Saratoga Creek, and with the proximity of Hakon.e Gardens and the mountains, these areas provide adequate open space and recreational alternatives for -the residents in the Village Area. Area J - Page 4 n L i PROPOSAL FOR VILLAGE - AREA "J" GENERAL PLAN REVIEW - 1981 RECEIVED NOV 3 1981 PLANNING POLICY ANALYSIS 1. The interface of multiple units and single - family residential units on two sides of Oak Street should be carefully regulated to protect the character of the adjacent single- family res- idential area to the south. 2. Portions of the Village south and west of Fifth Street on Big Basin Way should be of greater density and to include high quality condominiums and apartments instead of small shop commercial. Existing commercial developments be allowed to remain. 3. Oak Street and Saratoga Creek should continue to confine the north and south commercial and multiple unit residential den- sities of the Village commercial area. 4. Big Basin Way should be redesigned to provide turning lanes and better traffic control, including cross walk at 5th Street and traffic light at 4th. A paved and properly designed turn -a -round should be located at the end of Big Basin Way past 6th Street. The speed of traffic should be regulated in the Village on Big Basin Way, Oak Street, and Los Gatos - Saratoga Road. 5. Parking District No. 3 should be implemented; with City to assist through greater involvement in engineering studies and owners and merchants lesser involved. Possibly all of the owners and merchants for all of Village assist with pro-, ject instead of just owners of property at District No. 3. 6. The retention of Oak Street School as a funtioning educational institution is primary, however any modifications absolutely required be to preserve the site and building for future school use. Building to be used as Senior Citizen Center or other "soft use" is recommended. 7. The Village should be preserved and promoted as the a historical area with maintenance of existing historical or unique land - marks being encouraged by City Ordinance. Care should be exercised with the use of materials and colors. 8. Encourage a mixed use of residential above commercial use as a possible solution for multiple housing and with this process by Use Permit procedure. 9. The Village should be landscaped as a whole program with con- venient benches, kiosks, and other such conveniences located at strategic areas. 10. Encourage development of types of establish- ments with structures designed to maintain a "country" atmosphere. All new structures in Village should be designed to promote a historic area of the City. Page 1 of 2 pages. i Continuation of Proposal for Village - Area "J" General Plan Review - 1981 11. Focus and encourage priority commercial development and act- ivity in the Village. Encourage "Bed & Breakfast" establishments. 12. Implement Village Task Force Report with a Village Design Plan being developed and adopted from said report and Citizens Com- mittee input. Big Basin Way should be recognized as the "main street" of the City. 13, Continue the underground program for all utilities and streeting lighting program to the end of Big Basin Way and at Oak Street, 14. Encourage the Heritage Lane program for the area, and to include such early streets as Big Basin Way, Oak - Street, St, Charles Street, 'Third Street, Fourth Street, Fifth Street, and Sixth Street, 15. Retain the historical residences where possible in the Village and retain historical buildings from out of the historical Village Area even if requiring moving buildings to Village area to preserve and use. 16. Do not use Oak Street as alternative circulation to relieve Big Basin Way except in emergencies. Saratoga School, as the historic school site, fronts on Oak Street and is too narrow to accept heavy or one -way traffic for the safety of the school students. 17. Commercial areas of Areas E and H adjacent to Area J might be considered as part of Area J for future General Plan Reviews, This would assist with the overall commercial program of the Village Area, &AL- Warren B. Heid, Chairman Area J - The Village Page 2 of 2 pages. \1 \ AREA K - SUNLAND PARK The Sonland Park area includes /o area u. approximately 53 acres bounded on the we.t by Quito Rd,, on the south by McCoy Ave., on the east b!� Villanova, and on the north by the rear lines on properties on the north side of BaN%or Ave, The area bears the residential designation of medium density. Sonland Park is a neighborhood of 200 simle-family homes built in the 1950's. Homes and landscaping are mostly well maintained* Being relatively moderately priced' the area's homes offer affordable housing for families, senior citizens, young couples, divorced and single people. Because the homes are very moderately priced for Saratoga' approximately 15% of the homes are rental homes. Although completely developed, the Sonland Park area contains some planning problems, These Problems include evidence of declining maintenance in a Pew of the homes and some code violations^ These problems are not by ans means unique to the rental homes but such problems are more common to them. Most of the homes have been well maintained ( ^`' and the owners of these homes feel very strongl�-; F AREA A - MT. EDEN Area A, Mt. Eden, includes the northwest corner of the City southerly from the City boundary at Prospect to Pierce - Mt. Eden Roads. This eastern boundary of Area A is marked by the edge of the slope conservation zone and Wardell and Saratoga - Sunnyvale Roads from the-tracks-to Pierce Road. During the last two years approximately 50 acres within the Mt. Eden Road Urban Service Area have been annexed which -extends the western City limit beyond the intersection of Pierce and Mt. Eden Road. Area A is characterized by gentle sloping to steep lands, with the major predominant vegetation groups being oak, grassland, brush, orchards, vineyards and natural riparian areas. Much of Area A lies within the Calabazas Drainage Basin that provides valuable open space and acts as a backdrop for the City. The area has geological - hazard areas which necessitate extensive geotechnical investigation before any development. Pierce Road is the primary means of access in the area and has not changed in character over the last few decades. Widening of Pierce Road would require extensive review of rights -of -way for any existing easements. If any of the roads already in existence were extended to new development care should be taken to mitigate possible impacts resulting from erosion or potential geologic problems. Approved developments within the area and the concern for increased traffic as well as other concerns - precipitating the passage of Measure A in April of 1980 and the approval of a Specific Plan in June of 1981. Area A is totally within the Specific 1 AREA A - MT. EDEN (Cont.) Plan study area. The Specific Plan identified goals, objectives and policies to be followed in the creation of implementing ordinances for the western hillsides which would control development in the area. Proposed Action Programs 1. The following percentage credits toward the 0 -10 acre slope density requirements shall be allowed: 5% for lands 12% for lands 19% for lands 25% for lands 35% for lands 85% for lands 90% for lands 100% for lands shown shown shown shown shown shown shown shown as as as as as as as as Md and Mrf Ms Pd Pmw and Psf Ps Sex Sun Sbr and Sls Lands with the designations Pd, Ps, Pmw, Psf, and Ms will be allowed the above credits for density calculations. No construction, however, will be allowed on lands with those final designations. Comment: The maps prepared by William Cotton and Associates were intended to generally define the geological characteristics of an entire area and in completing a geotechnical study rather than be used -as a -specific guide for development. S..P.P. 1 -10, page 9, 10, 11 "Geology and Soil ". The ordinances which will implement the Specific Plan would be the appropriate controlling documents in which to establish specific development standards. 2. Pierce Road and Via Regina, because of their unique rural character, shall be designated heritage roads. They shall not be altered in any way that would change the rural character. AREA A - MT. EDEN (Cont.) Comment: The Heritage Preservation Ordinance establishes a procedure for designating a heritage lane. Sixty (60%) of property owners, or the Planning Commission or City Council, by resolution, may refer a proposal for Heritage Commission consideration - a policy in Specific Plan calls for improving Pierce which will not significantly alter character. (page 17) 3. All oak trees with a diameter of more than 10 inches along Pierce Road shall be designated as heritage trees. No removal shall be allowed and pruning shall be limited to that required for safety and the health of the trees. Comment: There is no definition of "heritage tree" in the new Heritage Preservation Ordinance, but the topic may be con- sidered at an early Heritage Commission Meeting. The current Tree Ordinance prohibits removal of trees over 12" diameter without a permit. Staff feels this is sufficient control. Specific Plan Policy #2,page 18, S.P.P. * #3, page 6 "Ecology" 4. The remaining substantially natural portions of Prospect Creek shall be preserved as they are. Development projects will be required to revegetate previously altered portions of the area. Comment: S.P.P. #3 "Hydrology and Flooding" page 11 S.P.P. #7 page 6 "Ecology" S.P.P. #2 page 7 "Conservation" S.P.P. #7 page 4 "Site Grading" 5. No roads shall traverse lands having slopes greater than 300. Preferably, roads will be restricted to lands with slopes no greater than 200. Maximum combined cuts and fills will not exceed 10 feet. *Specific Plan Policy 3 AREA A - MT. EDEN (Cont.) Comment: S.P.P. # 4, 6 page 4 "Site Grading" S.P.P. # 2 page 17 "Circulation" S.P.P. #1 page 6 "Ecology" 6. Emergency /secondary roads traversing lands with slopes greater than 20% shall not exceed 20 feet in over -all paved width. Rights -of -way shall be restricted to dimensions required to construct the 20 foot width. Homes shall not gain access through emergency /secondary access roads. Comment: S.P.P. #4, page 4 "Site Grading" S.P.P. #1,2,5,6 page 17 "Circulation" 7. Wardell Road, Comer Drive, Old Oak Way and Quarry Road are inadequate to handle through traffic. They should not be extended except as emergency /secondary access roads as described above. Comment: The Circulation Plan for the Specific Plan shows Comer connecting to Chiquita forming a loop. 8. Houses should also be restricted to areas of less than 30% natural slope and shall require stringent geotechnical site investigation. Comment: S.P.P. 10, page -5 "Site Grading" S.P.P. 1 -10 page 9 -11 "Geology and Soil" S.P.P. 4 page 4 "Site Grading" 9. Design approval shall include effective natural screening from the valley floor to preserve the visual character of the City's back -drop. Views FROM the valley floor shall take precedence over views TO the Valley. Development may be prohibited where it would severly impact the City's scenic hillsides and ridgelines. 4 AREA A - MT. EDEN (Cont.) Comment: S.P.P. #3 #4, page 5 "Aesthetic /Scenic Qualities S.P.P. #2, page 6 "Ecology" 10. No homes shall be built at the base of a hillside where there is danger of undercutting the slope. Comment: S.P.P. #1 -10, page 9 -11 "Geology & Soil" S.P.P. #5, page 4 "Site Grading" 11. Floor levels of homes shall conform to the natural contours of the hillside. Comment: S.P.P. 4,page 5 "Aesthetic /Scenic Qualities S.P.P. 2,page 6 "Ecology" The recently adopted Design Review Ordinance is quite specific in how the height of a structure will be measured and has criteria that are geared to preserving site topography.. 12. Over -all site alteration shall be minimized. Maximum combined depths of cuts and fills shall be 10 feet. Comment: S.P.P. #1,3,9, page 3 -5 "Site Grading" 13. Development proposals utilizing maximum densities shall include community tennis courts and swimming pools and preclude individual site -by -site construction of these amenities. Such amenities shall be allowed on over- size.parcels which do not require alteration to accomplish such construction. Comment: S.P.P. #9, page 4 -5 "Site Grading" The City has conditioned Tentative Map approvals within Measure A to provide common tennis courts. Staff is very much in favor of such a concept. 14. Cancellation of Williamson Act contracts shall not be allowed if this cancellation leads to or would result in development 5 AREA A - MT. EDEN (Cont.) prior to the expiration of the.contract. Comment: S.P.P. 1 & 2, page 7 "Williamson Act" New State law effective 1/1/82 authorizes a 150 day window when Williamson Act contracts cancellation can be considered by City Council. The City Attorney's Office will be analyzing this law and its effect on Saratoga. 15. No additional gas or water lines shall traverse lands that have a high risk of instability. Specific.site investigation shall be done, with safety assured in writing by the City Geologist, before approval is given for any utility extensions. Comment: S.P.P. 1 -10, page 9 -10 "Geology & Soils" The City Geologist is responsible for reviewing and approving geotechnical work of other geologists and does not assure geological investigations. 16. The City shall not participate in the formation of any future utility assessment districts in this area. Comment: S.P. Action Program #1, page 14 "Sanitary Sewer" S.P.P. #1, page 18 "Economics" S.P.P. ##1,2, page 13 "Water" S.P. Action Program #l., page 13 "Water" 2 AREA B - MT. EDEN Area B is bounded-by Pierce Road on the north, Saratoga Creek and Congress Springs Road on the south and is to the west of Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road. Most of the area is occupied by low density residential development, or mountainous and orchard open space, similar to Area A. There are, however, some differences between the two areas. Area B contains one Williamson Act orchard. Foothill Elementary School, the only school within the area, is zoned R1- 15,000, and is adjacent to Foothill Park. Wildwood City Park which is just across Saratoga Creek is located near the Village Business District. Adjacent to the Park, but separated by Fourth Street, is an area of former apartments which have been converted to condominiums. An area of more spacious clustered condominiums has been constructed to the southwest since the last plan review. Lying at one end of the area and close to the Village, this region is somewhat separated from the rest of the area and has minimal impact on the overall predominance of single family lower density homes in Area B. Except for the hillside area, the majority of Area B is already developed. There remains a parcel known as the "Horti- cultural Foundation" and a nearby orchard area, the "Spaich Orchard ", both with potential for significant development. The Foothill School site would also be a candidate for development if it were closed by the school district. The area is unanimous in the desire to assure that any development or redevelopment of sites within the area by only single family detached residential with a density consistent 1 AREA B - MT. EDEN (Cont.) with the surrounding neighborhood. A major concern of the area is the development of the West Valley Corridor as a full freeway. The area unanimously indicated a high priority on immediate development of the corridor, in the belief that its completion would greatly decrease the volume of traffic on Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road. The residents are concerned with the noise, pollution and safety hazards presented by the ever - increasing traffic on that road. In the absence of the development of the corridor, the area would like other remedies for relief from the adverse impact of the traffic. These might include sound walls, dense plantings or other means of decreasing through traffic on Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road. Another concern is the potential.increase . in through traffic in neighborhoods which might result from hillside development. It is felt that this traffic will use residential streets for access to Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road and that the roads designated as collectors are not adequate to handle the traffic that will be generated. For this reason, there is opposition to development that will create more trips to and from Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road. Among other traffic related concerns is the safe pedestrian passage between the west side of Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road and the shopping and school areas in the Argonaut area. It is felt that a pedestrian signal at Blauer Drive would help provide safe access to shopping and school. In conjunction with any develop- ment between the existing Argonaut Center and Cox Avenue, it is felt that a thorough plan for handling any increase in traffic in and out of the shopping area should be developed, possibly to include an access road which could also provide access to Cox Avenue. 2 AREA B - MT. EDEN (Cont.) Residents living in the Fourth Street vicinity find it difficult to get from Fourth Street to Big Basin Way during peak traffic hours. This situation is especially severe during commute hours and holidays, weekends and during the Christmas period when the tree sales are taking place in the county area of the hillsides. For this reason a safe way of turning from Fourth Street onto Big Basin Way is felt to be a necessity. This would also help decrease some of the through traffic in other neighborhoods which is generated by those people trying to bypass this traffic bottleneck. Some problems exist in the southern portion of the area where unstable terrain threatens both access and adjacent residential areas. Development in these areas should be carefully reviewed and controlled. 0 Purposed Action Programs 1. All development of vacant sites within this area shall be developed as single family detached residential and conform to the density of the surrounding area. 2. A traffic signal shall be installed in the'vicinity of Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road and Blauer to provide safe pedestrian passage between homes on the west of Saratoga- Sunnyvale and shopping and schools on the east side of the road. 3. A traffic light shall be installed on Big Basin Way at Fourth Street to enable those living in the vicinity of Fourth Street to safely enter Big Basin Way during peak traffic and holiday times when the traffic is heavy. 4. The City shall work with the appropriate agencies to develop and implement a plan to increase the protection of neighbor- 3 AREA B - MT. EDEN (Cont.) hoods bordering Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road from the noise and pollution which is a result of heavy traffic. This effort will include the consideration of installation of whatever sound barriers or dense landscaping that may be appropriate to help the impacted neighborhoods regain the use and enjoy- ment of their property. 5. The City sha'l*l study the flow of traffic on the West side of Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road, developing and implementing appro- priate traffic controls to channel through traffic onto collector streets and off of residential streets. 6. Before further development of the area in the vicinity of Argonaut Center takes place, the impact of increased traffic on .Saratoga - Sunnyva.le Road shall be studied and :a plan for minimizing the traffic impact shall be developed. This might involve an access road paralleling Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road and providing access to Cox Avenue. 4 AREA C - BLUE HILLS The Blue Hills Area is bounded by Prospect Road on the North, the proposed transportation corridor on the east, Cox Avenue - Wardell Road on the south, and the Northwest Hillside Zone on the west. Residential development in this area has a density of approximately four units to the acre (R1- 10,000 & R1- 12,500). The area contains Blue Hills Elementary School on its eastern boundary, and a commercial area, informally called the Saratoga Gateway, which is located in the center of the Blue Hills Area. Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road (State Route 85) traverses the center of this shopping area and forms part of the boundary of Areas A, B, and E. Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road, Cox Avenue and Prospect are major arterials serving Area C. Arroyo de Arguello /Via Roncole and Seagull Way are the only designated collector streets in the area. The Southern Pacific railroad tracks and PG &E towers cut diagonally across the area from west to east. Although the Blue Hills Area has a uniform residential density and a predominantly residential character, it is bisected by the commercial strip which extends from the inter- section at Prospect in the north to the point where Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road crosses the Southern Pacific railroad tracks in the south. The site on the southeast corner of Prospect and Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road is developed as a mixed use planned development with 36,000 square feet of commercial space and 65 condominium townhouses. There is a similar mixed use on the 1 AREA C - BLUE HILLS (cont.) west of Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road along Calabazas Creek with 18,000 square feet of commercial space and 51 condominiums. The Azule Shopping Center abutting the railroad tracks has been remodeled and expanded with 40,000 square feet of commercial space. In order to provide a positive and distinctive "gateway" to Saratoga, a resolution should be approved which clearly defines the design criteria to be used in evaluating any proposal for new construction or remodeling. The resolution should specify exterior materials, signage program and land- scaping required to provide "an attractive gateway entry ". The City should work closely with property owners in the area to aid in the formation of an Assessment District to cover development of a landscaped median, and a tree -lined frontage road along Saratoga- Sunnyvale'Road. South and east of the commercial area, the east side of Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road between the railroad tracks and the Cox - Wardell intersection has been developed as residential, single- family homes (R1- 12,500). Across Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road between the railroad tracks and Manor Drive, is a small parcel which abuts a lower density (R1- 12,500) single family residential development. (This site is currently zoned Rl- 12,500 and occupied by a garden supply firm). When the current use is changed, the new use should be consistent with the underlying zoning of R1- 12,500. Single family use of the parcel would protect the residential character of the adjacent area and form a clear boundary for the gateway commercial area on the north side of the Southern Pacific tracks - effectively confining the potential for strip development along Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road. 2 AREA C - BLUE HILLS (cont.) The Blue Hills Area is short of active recreational areas and open space. Blue Hills School facilities provide recreation opportunities for those east of Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road. The City owns the Azule Park site, abutting the school grounds on the east; however, the small orchard area provides some open space but little recreational use. Saratoga - Sunnyvale is an effective barrier in preventing those on the west side from using these facilities.. The current General Plan and the. Specific Plan for the Northwest Hillside Zone acknowledges the need for a park west of Saratoga- Sunnyvale in designating a park on the Fremont Union H.S. District land. This should be provided for at the time this land is developed. Access to Cox Avenue is characterized by reverse frontage lots (that is, homes are not built facing Cox) along -th,e major portion of the street. This precludes many of the circulation problems created by increasing use of this cross -town access. New development in Areas A and B has increased traffic flows along Arroyo de Arguello /Via Roncole. Completion of the road through the Parker Ranch area should relieve some of this traffic pressure. Proposed Action Programs 1. The gateway commercial area along Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road should be .limited to its intersections with Prospect Road and the Southern Pacific Railroad tracks. 2. Action should be taken to enhance the appearance of the gateway area by improving the southwest corner of the gateway. 3 AREA C - BLUE HILLS (cont.) Remodeling or redevelopment plans should include extensive landscaping on the corner. 3. The commercial development should be separated from traffic on Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road by tree - shielded frontage roads wherever possible. 4. Landscaped center median strips should be installed on Saratoga- Sunnyvale as commercial development proceeds in this area. 5. To maintain the low density residential character of the adjacent area, single family residential densities should be extended to the site on the west side of Saratoga- Sunnyvale between the Southern Pacific tracks and Manor Drive. 6. The City should assist and advise property owners on the merits of .special Assessment Districts in order to accomplish public projects such as landscaping medians and creating frontage roads. 7. Utility lines should be undergrounded with Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road having priority over residential areas. 8. Current densities and General Plan designations should remain with special consideration for creating an attractive gate- way. 9. The property behind the lumber year should be developed with residential or low intensity commercial office use. 10. The Azule Park should be retained as an open space or park use. If development is necessary on this site it should be single family detached use similar to the surrounding area. 4 AREA D - TRIANGLE NORTH The northern boundary begins at the West Valley Corridor right -of -way and Prospect Road, to Johnson Avenue then north to Brookhaven Drive, to Saratoga Creek, then south along Prospect Road and east to Saratoga Avenue. Excluding a parcel south- west of Prospect"Road and-Saratoga Avenue, in the City of San Jose, the eastern boundary follows Saratoga Avenue to the Southern Pacific Railway tracks. The southern boundary extends along the Southern Pacific Railway tracks to Cox Avenue and east along Cox Avenue to the West Valley Corridor right -of -way then north to Prospect Avenue. A retail commercial area is located on the south side of Prospect Avenue, and extends from Lawrence Expressway up to and including the Big Tree Shopping-Center (west of Saratoga Avenue). However, the predominant land use in this area is residential. Single family densities are R1- 10,000 and R1- 12,500. There are two churches and two parks in the Triangle North. One multi- family development is contained in this area just north of the intersection of Saratoga Avenue and the Southern Pacific Railroad right -of -way. Professional and administrative buildings are located at the southwest corner of Saratoga Avenue and Cox Avenue. The vacant parcel to the immediate south is designated for professional and administrative use. Future development of this parcel should be restricted to single story office buildings with adequate landscaping setbacks from the street. 1 AREA D - TRIANGLE NORTH (Cont.) Three schools are contained in the area including one high school (Prospect), which is still-in operation and two elementary schools are not currently used as public schools. If these sites are sold,open space and recreation areas could be lost. Some consideration should be given to expanding Congress Springs Park to compensate for open space that is lost due to school closures. One of the few planning questions remaining in the area is the future of the proposed West Valley Freeway Corridor. This right -of -way should be preserved and used as a pedestrian and bicycle trail link to City park sites. Unified pedestrian - bicycle access could extend from Quito Road to Prospect (through Area C, D, and E) by using the•P.G &E. right -of -way in the few spots now obstructed by development and by gaining easements in those areas not yet developed. The bicycle trail and pedestrian pathways would connect adjacent nodes in Area D which are developed with neighborhood parks, play areas and open space. Proposed Action Programs 1. New development on Saratoga Avenue shall be .designed in a manner that will distinguish the residential character of the City from the commercial centers on Prospect and Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road. This gateway to the City shall be landscaped and posted with a suitable demarcation sign, through participa- tion in a special assessment district. 2. Light rail transportation should be considered within the . West Valley right -of -way with an interim use of pedestrian 2 AREA D - TRIANGLE NORTH (Cont.) and bicycle trails from Quito Road to Prospect Road. The possibility of combining parks and pathways should be considered. 3. The City shall support the existing plan for extending Congress Spring Park into the West Valley Right -of -Way Corridor. 4. Any development allowed within the Corridor Right -of -Way should be consistent with the adjacent neighborhood. Pedestrian and bike trail easementsshould be acquired in conjunction with development. S. The vacant parcel south of the Vineyards should be considered for additional multi - family development. 6.. Brookview and Hansen School sites shall be restricted to Medium Density Residential development if sold as surplus school lands. 7. The 4.5 acres located at Saratoga Avenue south of the Lolly Court terminus shall remain zoned R -1- 10,000, Single Family Detached Residential. 8. The City should investigate using the P.G. &E. right -of -way for pedestrian and bicycle links where development has already occurred. 9. The 11.2 acres, located at the southwest corner of Saratoga Avenue and Cox Avenue, shall remain zoned Professional - Administrative. Future development of this parcel shall be restricted to single story buildings with setbacks which are well landscaped from the street. Off - street parking shall be provided in accordance with zoning code requirements. 3 AREA D - TRIANGLE NORTH (Cont.) 10. The City should consider annexing the small parcel, currently belonging to San Jose, adjoining the service station at the southwest corner of Lawrence Expressway and Saratoga Avenue. 11. The City shall develop an Ordinance which allow certain uses in school -owned buildings, while maintining the residential character of the area. 12. A suitable street traffic control system shall be considered on Prospect Road for the safety of Prospect High School students. 4 AREA E - TRIANGLE SOUTH Area E is bounded by Cox Avenue and the Southern Pacific tracks on the north, Saratoga Avenue on the east and south, and Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road on the west. The dominant land use in Area E is medium density, sing.le family residential. There are five (5) major undeveloped or underdeveloped parcels of land within this planning area, four (4) schools and two (.2) churches. While there are no parks wi.tl.in the area, there are sufficient active recreation sites in the area by utilizing school playgrounds. These playgrounds are dispersed enough to provide convenient recreation access to all neighborhood residents, their children and grandch!ildren..,. There are two commercial centers in Area E - Triangle South. One is on Saratoga- Sunnyvale at Blauer (Argonaut) and one at the intersection of Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road and Saratoga Avenue (Neal's Hollow). The second of these is traversed by Saratoga Creek with commercial uses north of the creek and profes- sional uses to the south of the creek. Behind this commercial - professional area are some multiple residential units. The multiple development has been fairly well limited by the single family development on the north side. The southern portion of Area E is close to Village commercial and professional uses, libraries, churches and is also near major transportation routes and public transportation. Considering these factors, the feasibility of expanding multi- family development in this area should be studied by the City. While usable open space in the southern portion of the Triangle is provided through the existing schools and the predominant large 1 AREA E - TRIANGLE SOUTH (Cont.) lot size. The adjacent mountains and the Saratoga Creek bed provide some visual open space. The use of a portion of the freeway right -of -way as a park (Congress Springs) accessible from the P.G. &E. right -of -way is a valuable addition to the Triangle South's environment. Even though this park and others are not in the area, proximity makes them readily available to all neighbor- hood residents. Traffic along Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road has increased since the last General Plan Review. Residents of the area have expressed concern about the safety of the intersection of Blauer Drive and Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road. Proposed Action Programs 1. The southern corner of the area should be reviewed as possible sites for additional multi - family housing units. The proximity of this area to public transportation, to Highway 9, to Saratoga Avenue, to the Village, to commercial and professional facilities, to libraries and churches make this a highly satisfactory area for such developments. 2. A stoplight should be installed at Blauer and Saratoga - .Sunnyvale Road since this has become a highly traveled intersection. 3. Congress Springs school property, adjacent to the Southern Pacific Railroad and close to a P.G. &E. substation and Highway 85 right -of -way, should be reviewed as a possible site for first class multiple housing units. 4. The City -owned open space at the intersection of Cox and Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road should be considered for a Hotel/ Motel or multi- family type development. V, AREA E - TRIANGLE SOUTH (Cont.) 5. The freeway right -of -way should be preserved in its entirety for eventual use as an expressway, or a bi -modal transportation route. 6. School playgrounds and playing fields should be made available as neighborhood recreation areas after school hours and on weekends and holidays. Q AREA F� - QUITO The Quito area is bounded on the north and east by Quito Road, on the south by the Southern Pacific Railroad (SPRR), and on the west by Saratoga Avenue. The majority of the Quito area was subdivided in the late 1940's and early 1950's, with the predominant zoning being R1- 10,000. In terms of land use, Area F is the most diversified in the City. Quito contains the City's only industry, the Paul Masson Winery. Located on Cox Avenue is one of the area's two neighborhood shopping centers which has recently been enlarged. The other local service center is located on Quito Road near the railroad crossing. El Quito Park Elemen -- tary School, leased by the County for the multi- handicapped education program, 2 churches, and 1 park, _leased :from Moreland School District, serve the residents of this area. The area also contains a 20 unit assisted rental development for senior citizens on Cox Avenue, a 72 unit multifamily senior citizen development (1/3 rentals) on Saratoga Avenue, and a convalescent hospital on Sousa "Lane near Quito Road. Adjacent to the SPRR and the P.G. &E, right -of -way is a portion of the proposed West Valley Freeway right -of -way, The major traffic carriers in this neighborhood are Cox, Saratoga Avenue, and Quito Road. The 1974 General Plan identified declining maintenance in some of the older residential neighborhoods (created in the late 1940's and early 1950's) of Area F as a critical problem. Structural deficiencies and illegal garage conversions were 01 AREA F - QUITO (Cont.) compounded by poor street maintenance and drainage problems. Through participation in the Federal Community Development Block Grant Program, the City designated the Quito neighborhood as a target area in 1977. The Saratoga Housing Assistance and Rehabilitation Program has provided loans and grants to eligible households; the result has been considerable neighborhood improvement and a stimulus to private improvement as well. Use of the few vacant parcels remaining in this area will have a significant impact on the overall character of the area. The 1974 General Plan identified two sites along Saratoga Avenue between Bucknall Road and Cox Avenue as sites to be considered for senior citizne housing. One of these sites has been developed with 72 multi- family units for residents over ,5.5 years of .age; one - third of these units have been set aside as rentals. Another parcel had received approval for 32 multi- family units 60% of which were set aside for residents over 55 but this project has not been built. The 10 acre± site fronting on the southeast side of Saratoga Avenue between MacFarland. and Cox should be .developed with a combination of land uses including professional, adminis- trative and multiple residential. In order to effectively regulate these mixed uses, a precise plan should be approved.prior to development. Except for the City park site at the E1 Quito Park School, open space and developed recreation area is very limited. This is particularly serious since residential densities here are among the highest in the City. The lack of developed recreation areas makes the creation of the pedestrian pathway and bicycle trails park link very important to this area. Through much 2 AREA F - QUITO (Cont-) of this area the P.G. &E, right -of -way will have to be used; the City should obtain recreation trail and pathway easements through the proposed freeway right -of -way property before development is permitted. There are two major traffic carriers. which form the area'.s boundaries. The most critical of these i -s Quito Road. This road is heavily used by students driving to West Valley College from the northeast. Lawrence Expressway which is six lanes places additional pressure on Quito Road for through- traffic to Highway 9 (Saratoga -Los Gatos Road) and for traffic desiring access to Campbell and Monte Sereno. A study should be done of this area to determine methods to increase safety and improve traffic flow. Current traffic jams and high volumes of traffic along the length of Quito necessitate its being upgraded. Additional local collectors are Cox Avenue and Paseo Presada, which connect a relatively high density, single- family residential area with a neighborhood commercial area and major arterials. Bucknall Road is suggested for collector designation due to its linkage to Paseo Presada. Proposed Action Programs 1. Expansion of existing industrial uses in the Quito.area should be closely reviewed and subject to strict design control. 2. The City should encourage formation of neighborhood organizations, pursue strict code enforcement, and improve public facilities in the older, higher density neighborhoods in this area. 3. The vacant parcel located on the southeast side of Saratoga Avenue between MacFarland and Cox Avenues should be developed 3 AREA F - QUITO (Cont.) only under conditions of uniform design and with considera- tion given to combined land uses. Such planned development may include professional, administrative, and multiple residential land uses, especially for senior citizens. Particular attention should be given to landscaping, access, parking and site coverage.1 4. The remaining vacant parcel on the east side of Saratoga Avenue generally between Bucknall Road and Cox Avenue should be developed in P -D (Residential).2 5. Remaining vacant parcels in the Quito area should be developed in the same single family densities as the existing adjacent development. 6. The City should investigate use of the P.G. &E. right -of -way as a link in the pedestrian pathways and bicycle trails linear park. Should portions of the. proposed freeway right- of-way be developed, easements for the linear park should be obtained in advance. 1 PD -Mixed Use designation indicates areas for which a precise plan must be approved prior to development. Said plan shall include density, architecture, site layout, landscaping, access, circulation and parking. The review procedure for the precise plan should be the same as for a rezoning, including public hearings by the Planning Commission and City Council. Mixed uses shall include a combination of professional- administrative, commercial and multiple residential. The existing zoning on the property is the underlying zone and should be considered to be the zone until an acceptable PD -Mixed Use plan is submitted and approved by the City. 2 PD- Residential designation indicates areas in which a precise plan must be approved prior to development. Said plan shall include density, architecture, site layout, landscaping, access, circulation and parking. The review procedure for the precise plan should be the same as for a rezoning, including public hearings by the Planning Commission and City Council. The existing residential zoning is the underlying zone and would be considered to be the zoning until an acceptable PD- Residential plan is submitted and approved by the City. W AREA F - QUITO (Cont.) 7. Quito Road should be studied to determine the type of improve- ment required to improve traffic safety. 8. The El Quito Park shall be purchased from the Moreland School District and maintained as a park since it is the only open space in this densely populated area of the City. 9. A pedestrian sidewalk shall be installed from Paseo Lado to the Quito Shopping Center. 10. Area residents have expressed concern with future commercial and industrial expansion in the area. The City shall coor- dinate with the Homeowners Association of any future projects in the area including sharing all information that describe the potential impacts of the projects, traffic impacts in particular. r, AREA G - FRUITVALE -SOBEY ROAD The Fruitvale -Sobey Road area is bounded by Allendale- Quito- Pollard on the north, Quito Road and the City limits on the east, Saratoga -Los Gatos Road to the south and Fruitvale Avenue on the west. One acre residential development-predominates; however, there is considerable vacant land remaining in this area of rolling hills and chaparral. About half of the un- developed land is orchard; however, only two of these orchards are under Agricultural Preserve protection. Other land uses include two schools, Marshall Lane Elementary and West Valley College, two churches along'Allen- date and the Odd Fellows complex of buildings off San Marcos in the eastern portion of the area. Since 1974 the Odd Fellows has added 150 senior citizen multi - family dwelling -units and are in the process of replacing the older residential care facilities on site. The feeling of area residents is that no further higher density multi - family development be allowed in the area to preserve its very low density single- family character. Much of Area G is included in the City's equestrian zone, which permits residents to keep horses on their property. The Fruitvale -Sobey Road Area is encircled by arterials. Collectors within the area are Sobey Road and Chester /Ten Acres, The major traffic generator in the area is West Valley College in the northwest corner. Future development of the Fruitvale -Sobey Road area should be restricted to very low density single - family homes in order 1 AREA G - FRUITVALE -SOBEY ROAD (Cont.) to preserve the character of the area and the strong wishes of the area residents. An important part of the orderly development calls for the City to change the ordinance regarding conditional use permits that would allow even further higher density multi- family development. School sites within Area G provide the only publicly owned open space or active recreational areas.. However, 'the existing orchards and large parcels associated with residential development reduce the need for public open space. The continued use of the Community Gardens., and the,proposed equestrian.trail, which may also serve as a hiking trail, could provide a valuable public recreation resource in this area. The Fruitvale -Sobey Road area appears to be adequately served by arterials. Future traffic projections indicate that by 1990 Saratoga -Los Gatos.Road, Quito Road and Fruitvale Avenue will be carrying significantly more traffic. Allendale and Fruitvale are already carrying substantial traffic loads. Plans to provide increased capacity for Fruitvale and plans to increase motor vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian safety should be studied. The .future meed for improving Quito Road from Allendale to Saratoga -Los Gatos Road should also be studied. Current pro- jections for State Highway 9 without the West Valley Freeway, indicate that Highway 9 will have to be improved in order to handle average daily traffic of 30,000 to 45,000 by 1990. Any Any improvements should not be detrimental to this designated scenic highway. 2 AREA G - FRUITVALE -SOBEY ROAD Proposed Action Programs 1. To protect the unique character of Fruitvale -Sobey Road area designated Area G, and to response to the residents mandate, future development of vacant or underdeveloped parcels shall be very low single- family residential density. Specifically one acre (R -1- 40,000) shall be maintained. Any conflicting or ambiguous zoning within Area G shall be clarified to allow only single- family R -1- 40,000 development. 2. New development should be provided with adequate access to arterials but local access streets should be designed to prevent through traffic use. 3. The large parcel zoning of the Fruitvale -Sobey Road area reduces the need for public open space; the City should support an equestrian and hiking trail to .provide some public recreation alternatives within the ,area. The City should investigate further permanent support of the Community Garden. 4. Fruitvale Avenue is a heavily travelled major road. Fruitvale is a four lane roadway over-part of its length and residents are concerned about the safety aspects of Fruitvale in its current condition. A plan should be studied which provide for increased capacity of Fruitvale for vehicles, bikes and pedestrians while maintaining the scenic quality that currently exists. 5. Within the next decade, Quito Road from Allendale -to Saratoga -Los Gatos Road (Route 9) should be studied to determine if any improvement is needed and the best way to protect the scenic quality of this -thoroughfare. 3 AREA G - FRUITVALE -SOBEY ROAD (Cont.) 6. Current State Highway traffic projections indicate that the use of Saratoga -Los Gatos Road (Route 9) will be increased by 1990. Any improvements needed should be made in such a way as to mitigate problems of adjacent land uses and to protect the scenic quality of this highway. 7. The list of conditional uses in R -1 Districts shall be amended so as not to allow any residential density greater than one dwelling unit for every 40,000 square feet of new site area when said site is designated as PD (Planned Development) by the General Plan. 4 AREA H - FRUITVALE WEST Fruitvale West is bordered on the north by Saratoga Avenue, on the east by Fruitvale, on the south by Saratoga - Los Gatos Road and on the west by Park Place. Fruitvale West is a mixture of residential densities and orientations, interspersed with some vacant land. Wildcat Creek and several smaller unnamed tributaries of Wildcat Creek meander through this area. Much of the core of the area is in orchard, with one of these orchards under Agricultural Preserve. Residential densities vary from R1- 10,000 (4 per acre) to R1- 40,000 (1 per acre). The lowest density residential area (1 unit per acre) is encompassed by Montauk Drive, Fruitvale, Saratoga-.Los Gatos to the back of the lots on Horseshoe Drive. This area is almost completely developed and is similar in character to the adjacent Fruitvale -Sobey Road area. The high density single family uses extend about three - quarters of the way along Saratoga Avenue toward the Fruitvale intersection. The highest densities (R1- 10,000) are close to the Village, between Park Place and Lutheria Way, and tend to be oriented to the Village. The two units per acre development extends from Lutheria to the undeveloped parcels near the corner of Saratoga and Fruitvale Avenues. The Fruitvale West area contains one church, two schools: Sacred Heart and Redwood Junior High, the Civic Center, the Community Center, the Senior Citizens Center, the Post Office, the Library, and one undeveloped park (Central Park), 1 AREA H - FRUITVALE WEST (Cont.) on Fruitvale adjacent to City Hall. a small percentage of this thirteen City orchard. As with the other ar, bounded by arterials; however, this streets. Future development in the area The new library occupies acre park, part of which is aas, Fruitvale West is area lacks through- collector should be limited to single family detached residential. The higher density (R1- 20,000) should be confined to-the west side of Wildcat Creek and its major tributary. Flood plain zoning and protection should be observed in any development in this area. One acre single family residential density should be extended to the east bank of Wildcat Creek and its major tributary. There is a shortage of public open space and recreation areas in the Fruitvale West area, particularly west of Wildcat Creek. As the orchards are developed, the absence of park areas will become more noticeable. The banks of Wildcat Creek and its tributaries should be protected-as open space wherever possible. Areas particularly prone to flooding might also be preserved and used for recreation purposes. Here the large private lots provide visual relief and meet personal recreation needs. The Fruitvale West area is so well served by peripheral arterials that the need for a through - collector has been mitigated. Residents of the area express little concern for the inconven- ience resulting from the absence of a through - collector, and the Fire and Sheriff Departments report that the surrounding arterials provide sufficiently good access that a collector 2 AREA H - FRUITVALE WEST (Cont.) street is not necessary. Projections for average daily traffic on Saratoga -Los Gatos Road (Route 9) will probably require future attention to the intersection of Routes 9 and 85, Saratoga Avenue and Big Basin Way. Traffic drops off sign- ificantly on Saratoga Avenue north of Herriman Avenue. The major traffic generators, the churches, the college and high school, are south of or at Herriman Avenue. Therefore, it is suggested that Saratoga Avenue be improved from Fruitvale to the intersection of Herriman Avenue. As part of the improvement, the paved area and moving lanes should be more clearly marked. Redwood School shall be preserved with school uses that will not cause additional noise or traffic and that will be compatible with ajoining R1 -40,0M residential areas. Proposed Action Programs 1. Future development in the Fruitvale West area should be limited to single - family detached residential uses. Areas of more than one unit per acre should be confined to the west side of Wildcat Creek and its major tributary. 2. Flood Plain Zoning should be strictly enforce in the undeveloped area along Wildcat Creek and its tributaries. 3. To provide needed open space and passive recreation areas, the banks of Wildcat Creek and its tributaries should be. preserved as open space and developed with pathways wherever possible. 4. Saratoga Avenue should be improved from Fruitvale to Herriman Avenue. Beyond Herriman Avenue the travel lanes should be more clearly defined. 3 AREA H - FRUITVALE WEST (Cont.) 5. Traffic projections for Saratoga -Los Gatos Road indicate that the use of Saratoga-Los Gatos Road (Route 9) will be increased by 1990. New development adjacent to Saratoga - Los Gatos Road should be reviewed through the Design Review process. Any improvements needed should be made in such a way as to mitigate problems of adjacent land uses and to protect the scenic quality of this highway. 6. The City orchard land (Central Park), from Allendale to Saratoga Avenue, shall be designated as an historic preserve under the Heritage Preservation Ordinance. 7. If public ownership of Redwood School is not possible, restrict use of this property to residential development at densities and intensities no higher than ajoining R1- 40,000 residential development. 8. Vacant parcels should be developed at densities shown on the 1974 General Plan. 4 AREA I - GLEN UNA The Glen Una area is bordered by Saratoga -Los Gatos Road on the east, the City boundary on the south and west and Madronia Cementery on the north. Almost all of Glen Una is developed, or protected as open space. The dominant land use is single family residential which ranges in density from two units per acre to one unit per acre. The northern portion of Glen Una is relatively flat. However, the terrain becomes more steep to the south until, in some places, the City's maximum of forty percent slope for developable sites restricts potential new development. The elevation of much of the southern portion of Area I is too high to be served by San Jose Water Works and is served by a private water company. Area I contains both open space and recreational areas. Villa Montalvo and Hakone Gardens serve as cultural sites within the area, while the areas surrounding the sisters of Notre Dame and Madronia Cemetery act as open space. Additionally, the Bohlman Road Urban Service Area (U.S.A.) and the Glen Una U.S.A. act as a visual backdrop for much of Saratoga. The City finalized an action which reduced the Glen Una Urban Service Area by approximately 150 acres because the City could not provide adequate urban services. The City should consider a similar study for the same reasons on the Bohlman Road U.S.A. Wildcat Creek's headwaters originate within Area I and efforts should be taken to preserve the creek banks wherever possible. Remaining vacant parcels in the Glen Una area should be developed at the densities shown on the 1974 General Plan Map 1 AREA I - GLEN UNA (Cont.) or as recently amended by the City Council; however, factors such as slope, soil stability, rift zones, access and geological problems should be considered before development is permitted. As with the other areas, Glen Una is bordered by arterials on two sides. However, unlike most of the other areas, residents of Glen Una have only limited access to these arterials. The designated collector streets in the Glen Una area are north - south oriented and provide access to Villa Montalvo Arboretum and the Sphere of Influence -- Montalvo Road /Park:;. Hume Drive,,.P.iedmont Lane and Bohlman Road with the only east -wes.t collector being Mendelsohn Lane. Private roads within the area should be maintained either through a collective effort by the residents or through formation of assessment districts. Proposed Action Programs 1. Future development in the Glen Una area should be limited to single- family residential densities shown on the 1974 General Plan Map, except in those areas where slope, availability of City services, or vehicular access limit development to lower densities. 2. Bike lanes and pedestrian paths should be provided wherever possible. 3. The City should explore working with the State Department of Transportation in developing an overall landscaping plan for Saratoga -Los Gatos Road. 4. The intersection of Mendelsohn Lane and Piedmont Lane should be improved to increase traffic safety. 2 AREA J - THE VILLAGE The Village is the historical center of Saratoga. Over time its function has changed, but the historic significance of the landmarks within it lend a rustic character and sense of the past for all of Saratoga. The Village area extends from Saratoga Creek on the north to Aloha Avenue and Madronia Cemetery on the south. Its eastern boundary is Saratoga -Los Gatos Road. The western boundary is Madronia Cemetery, extended to the rear lot lines at the end of Pamela Way and across Congress Springs Road to Saratoga Creek. As the historical center of Saratoga, the Village contains many important landmarks of the past: Saratoga School, King Residence (Caldwell) on Big Basin Way, Henry Big Basin Way, the clapboard summer cottages Village Library, the old Garden City Bank on the McCarthy Block (Kocher). More recent co and uses sometimes overwhelm these important the personality they lend remains. Residence at 6th and on Oak Street, the Big Basin Way, and umercial development cornerstones, but Today the Village area includes the Village branch of the County Library, the Saratoga Fire District's Main Fire Station, the Saratoga School on Oak Street and adjacent playgrounds, a convalescent hospital, several new commercial buildings since the last general plan review, and a variety of densities of residential land uses, from single family residences through apartments and condominiums. Three of the four possible parking assessment districts have been formed on both sides of Bia Basin 1 AREA J - THE VILLAGE (Cont.) Way, and a fourth parking assessment district is contemplated between the shops and the creek in the northeastern portion of the Village. Greater automobile dependence, residential and commercial development and increased recreation orientation have also increased the traffic volumes on Big Basin Way and Saratoga - Los Gatos Road. Residential land uses in the Village range from R1- 10,000 through multi- family developments of R -M -3,000 and R -M- 4,000. There are also apartments over and adjacent to shops on Big Basin Way. The strip behind the commercial area, facing onto Oak Street and Charles Street was designated for higher density residential uses in previous General Plans, and consideration for greater density for this area and at the end of.Big Basin Way should be made by this General Plan. Currently, this strip is occupied by old summer cottages interspersed with an occasional Victorian gingerbread, and with townhouses and apartments. Almost all of these lots are on considerable slope and are capable of support- ing multi -level structures. Oak Street /St. Charles Street appears to have been designated as the boundary between the more intense commercial - professional- residential uses of the Village and the lower density, single family uses of surrounding Saratoga. In keeping with this function, the area between the southside of Oak Street /St. Charles Street and the north side of Aloha Avenue are zoned R1- 10,000 and R1- 15,000. Today the commercial area of the Village extends from just east of Saratoga - Sunnyvale /Saratoga -Los Gatos Roads, between the Saratoga Creek and just south of Oak Street, westward to the end of Big Basin Way beyond Sixth Street, with Community Commercial 6 AREA J - THE VILLAGE (Cont.) (C -C) and Visitor Commercial (C -V). Within the Visitor Commercial multi - family residential units including condominiums are permitted with a Use Permit. This area would be acceptable as a quality condominium area for those parcels that are vacant or which might be redeveloped. Financial institutions and real estate offices are controlled through the City's use permit process in an effort to increase the City's tax base. Future professional and commercial uses should be evaluated in terms of economic return to the City. The City should consider requiring a Use Permit for many uses within the Village with the intended purpose of giving the Planning Commission greater flexibility in order to make the Village a viable shopping area. Big Basin Way, which ,traverses the Village commercial area, is a local arterial and a State Highway (Route 9). It is complemented by the convergence of three of the City's six arterials (Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road (Route 85), Saratoga Avenue, and Saratoga - Los Gatos Road (Route 9) at the east end of the commercial area. Within the Village, access to these arterials is provided by four collector streets; three are generally east /west (Third, Fourth, and Sixth Streets) and one is generally north /south (Oak Street/ Bohlman Road). The variety of design and economic problems of the Village indicate the City should consider a Special Area Plan for the Village. In the General Plan the concern is focused on general land use, circulation and other related problems to the various general plan elements; and general policies and proposals for resolving these problems. A Special Area Plan would address them more specifically. 3 AREA J - THE VILLAGE (Cont.) Over the years, the Village commercial area has been permitted to spread, extending the length of Big Basin Way as Visitor Commercial. Even though four blocks may not seem an excessive distance, the bend in Big Basin Way at Fifth Street provides a visual barrier, which makes the street seem longer and possibly out of sight of the main commercial section of the street. As advocated in the last General Plan the commercial development on Big Basin Way should be confined as much as possible to the area between the intersection of Big Basin Way at the east end of the street, and Fifth Street on the West, with the exception of the commercial uses already in existence past Fifth Street. This means changing the Commercial Visitor zoning to a multi- family residential zoning, with preference to greaten density and higher quality units. At its eastern end, the existing'commercial- professional uses on the west side of Saratoga- Sunnyvale Road from Brookwood Drive to Oak Place should not be permitted to extend. In addition, the mix of residential and commercial, with apartments over shops and condominiums, should be encouraged in the Village to stimulate community activity and provide a unique housing market for people who enjoy living close to the commercial and community center, and with a pedestrian focus along Big Basin Way. The Village has inherited some difficult circulation problems which defy easy solution. Big Basin Way currently has parking on both sides and two moving lanes of traffic. Turning and parking movements frequently slow through- traffic and obstruct peak -hour flows along this major access to the Sphere of Influence and park and recreational areas in the Santa Cruz Mountain area. Exam- 4 AREA J - THE VILLAGE (Cont.) ination has revealed that there are no acceptable alternative streets or routes to alleviate traffic problems on Big Basin Way. A modest alternative would be to redesign the street to create two through, unobstructed traffic lanes. This will require removing the parking from Big Basin Way and encourage the use of the parking assessment district areas. Also stop lights might be installed at Fourth Street and Big Basin Way, and-Oak Street and Saratoga -Los Gatos Road, to assist with the slowing of fast moving vehicles in the Village. A second major circulation problem in the Village results from shoppers arriving in the Village by car. Some additional parking areas have been provided by recent commercial developments. The final area available for parking would be Parking Assessment District Three and with City assistance the critical parking problem would be assisted. This area would provide approximately 160 spaces, not only for community shopping- service function, but as an attractor of tourists and shoppers from beyond Saratoga.. Recent parking studies reveal that parking will remain as a major problem through the 1980's and will be compounded once build - out is accomplished along Big Basin. Therefore, formation of the assessment district becomes critical to the Village as a whole. There are few undeveloped lots remaining in the Village, however by orienting buildings to both Big Basin Way and arcades behind, shopping traffic can be encouraged off Big Basin Way, freeing the street for through traffic. In order to preserve the unique character of the Village, the old summer houses on Oak Street and St. Charles Street should be retained. In places where this is not feasible, new 5 AREA J - THE VILLAGE (Cont.) buildings should blend into and reinforce the clapboard summer cottage appearance of the area. The interface of densities along Oak Street /St. Charles Street is not ideal; therefore, all development on the north side should be reviewed with an eye to its impact on the single - family units on the south side. The Village Area is served by three parks: one adjacent to Saratoga School, one across Saratoga Creek at Fourth Street in Area B, and an island of open space at the intersection of Big Basin Way and Routes 85 and 9. These areas, plus the natural set- ting of Saratoga Creek, and with the proximity of Hakone Gardens and the mountains, provide adequate open space and recreational alternatives for the residents in the Village Area. Proposed Action Programs 1. The interface of multiple units and single - family residen- tial units on two sides of Oak Street should be carefully regulated to protect the character of the adjacent single - residential area to the south. 2. Portions of the Village south and west of Fifth Street on Big Basin Way should be of greater density and to include high quality condominiums and apartments instead of small shop commercial. Existing commercial developments be allowed to remain. 3. Oak Street and Saratoga Creek should continue to confine the north and south commercial and multiple unit residential densities of the Village commercial area. AREA J - THE VILLAGE (Cont.) 4. Big Basin Way should be redesigned to provide turning lanes and better traffic control, including cross walk at Fifth Street and traffic light at Fourth. A paved and properly designed turn - around should be located at the end of Big Basin Way past Sixth Street. Speed limits on Big Basin Way, Oak Street, and Saratoga -Los Gatos Road should be strictly enforced. V15. Parking District Three should be implemented, with City to assist through greater involvement in engineering studies and in cooperation with owners and merchants. All owners and merchants in the Village should encourage the formation of the District. V/6. The Oak Street Elementary School should be retained-as a functioning educational institution � osZ- If the school is closed only low intensity uses should occupy the site which would not create significant adverse impacts on adjacent properties. The existing school building should be preserved regardless of how the site is used. 7. The Village should be preserved and promoted as a historical area with maintenance of existing historical or unique land- marks being encouraged by City Ordinance. Care should be exercised with the use of materials and colors. 8. Encourage a mixed use of residential above commercial use as a possible solution for multiple housing through the Use Permit procedure. 9. A landscaping plan for the Village, including strategically located benches, kiosks, and other conveniences, should be prepared and implemented. 7 AREA J - THE VILLAGE (Cont.) 10. New commercial and residential development should be encouraged to maintain the current "Village" atmosphere and preserve the historic flavor of the Village. 11. Focus and encourage priority commercial development and activity in the Village. Encourage "Bed & Breakfast" establishments. 12. Update and implement Village Task Force Report with a Village Design Plan utilizing imput from update and Citizens Com- mittee. Big Basin Way should be recognized as the "main street" of the City. 13. Continue the utilities undergrounding and streeting lighting for Big Basin Way and Oak Street. 14. Encourage the Heritage Lane program for the area, to include such early streets as Big Basin Way, Oak Street, St. Charles Street, Third Street, Fourth Street, Fifth Street, and Sixth Street. 15. Retain and use historical buildings where possible in the Village and retain historical buildings from outside the historical Village Area even if it requires moving buildings to the Village. 16. Oak Street should not be used as an alternative circulation route to relieve Big Basin Way except in emergencies. Saratoga School, as a historic school site, fronts on Oak Street Street and is too narrow to accept heavy or one -way traffic for the safety of the school students. 17. Commercial areas of Areas E and H adjacent to Area J might be considered as part of Area J for future General Plan :3 AREA J - THE VILLAGE (Cont.) l �is. Pedestrian and bicycle access to the Village should be encouraged by developing a system of bicycle trails and pathways connecting the Village to various residential areas in the City and to adjacent communities. X AREA K - SUNLAND PARK Sunland Park is a newly annexed (1981) approximately 53 acres bounded on the west by Quito Road, on the south by McCoy Avenue, on the east by Villanova, and on the north by the rear lot lines of properties on the north side of Baylor Avenue. The area bears the residential designation of medium density. Sunland Park is a neighborhood of 200 single- family homes built in the 1950's. Homes and landscaping are mostly well maintained. Being relatively moderately priced, the area's homes offer affordable housing for families, senior citizens, young couples, divorced and single people. Because the homes are very moderately priced for Saratoga, approximately 15% of the homes are rental homes. Although completely developed, the Sunland Park area contains some planning problems. These problems include evidence of declining maintenance in a few of the homes and some code violations. These problems are not by any means unique to the rental homes but such problems are more common to them. Most of the homes have been well maintained and the owners of these homes feel very strongly that every home should show a reasonable degree of maintenance and care. The City should support the neighborhood association in its efforts to bring all residences in the area up to a reasonable level of maintenance care and appearance. Some residents may be able to utilize the Saratoga Housing Assistance and Rehabi- litation Program to upgrade their homes. Open space and developed recreation areas are non - existent in this area. It is therefore essential that a pedestrian 1 AREA K - SUNLAND PARK (Cont.) pathway and bicycle path be developed across Quito Road from this area into the center of Saratoga. This would allow access to El Quito Park, the library, Montalvo, and other recreation available in Saratoga. The City should study Quito Road to determine how a center turn lane could be added to Quito Road between Cox Avenue and McCoy Avenue to improve traffic flow and safety. The City should work in conjunction with the City of San Jose to develop appro- priate street transition for the third lane north of Baylor Avenue and south of McCoy Avenue. The City should also consider repainting the crosswalks where Quito Road intersects McCoy Avenue and Paseo Lado to facilitate bicycle and pedestrian crossings. The unimproved portions of the Quito Road right -of -way should be beautified to upgrade the present appearance of this portion of the road. The present bicycle path should be repaved. Appropriate new landscaping should be installed to compliment existing landscaping. Proposed Action Programs 1. Sunland Park should continue with its existing neighborhood association and its efforts to upgrade and maintain neighbor- hood appearance. The neighborhood association will look for City encouragement in this regard. 2. The City should restripe the crosswalks at McCoy and Quito and Paseo Lado and Quito to facilitate bicycle and pedestrian safety. 3. The City should study the feasibility of creating a center turn lane on Quito Road between Cox and McCoy Avenues. If N to • AREA K - SUNLAND PARK (Cont.) it is determined that such a center turn lane will indeed improve traffic flow and safety on Quito such a center lane should be installed. The need for a left hand turn lane from Quito Road onto Paseo Lado should be studied by the City. 4. The unimproved portions of Quito Road through regular maintenance of the ex the addition of new landscaping. The should be repaved. 5. Baylor Avenue and McCoy Avenue should collector streets. 3 should be beautified fisting landscaping and present bicycle path be designated as AREA L - KENTFIELD Area L, Kentfield, formerly a part of Area F, is bounded on the north by the Southern Pacific railroad tracks, West Valley Transportation Corridor and the PG &E right -of -way, on the west by Saratoga and Fruitvale Avenues, on the south by Allendale and Pollard Road, and on the east by San Thomas Creek, and the City limit line. Quito Road forms westerly boundaries for a small portion of the area in the southeast and Vasona Creek, creek of special environmental value, connects to Wildcat Creek in the northeastern corner of the planning area. This area is almost completely developed. The northern 10 and eastern portions of this area have predominant quarter - acre (R1- 10,000) zoning. The more recently developed southwest portion has half -acre (R1- 20,000) zoning, and is separated from the older residential area by an intermediate portion that has R1- 15,000 zoning. Without exception, the land here is developed as single - family detached residential use. To preserve the area's inte- grity it is essential that this low density single- family detached residential character bo maintained throughout the entire area. Development of the few remaining vacant or underutilized parcels must therefore conform to the density and intensity limitations of their adjacent neighborhoods. The only major undeveloped sites are adjoining parcels at the southeast corner of Saratoga and Fruitvale Avenues. Their development will be a major factor in determining not only the overall character of this portion of the planning area, but also AREA L - KENTFIELD (Cont.) the additional traffic at., and the future appearance of, this heavily travelled intersection. To maintain the cohesiveness of this planning area, these vacant sites shall be developed as low density single- family detached residential use (R1- 20,000) as it is designated in the 1974 General Plan. Such a density would not create adverse traffic and congestion impacts at the intersection. Ronnie Way shall not be developed to intersect with Saratoga Avenue or Fruitvale Avenue, other than for emergency access, to prevent intrusion of heavy traffic into the area's residential streets. The development of these parcels will have a significant visual effect. The pleasant open space look which these orchards have afforded the City should be preserved, insofar as possible, through attractive landscaping and adequate setbacks in conjunction with any development of the sites. The major traffic carriers which form the boundaries of the Kentfield area create serious planning problems. Saratoga Avenue, Fruitvale Avenue, Quito Road and Allendale Avenue are heavily travelled by West Valley College students and residents of the City. Bicyclists and pedestrians also use these routes but are not well accommodated. Adequate pedestrian pathways and bicycle trails should be completed wherever possible along these routes. The major carriers in the Kentfield area form its boundaries. The two most critical of these are Quito Road and Allendale Avenue. Both of these roads are heavily used by students driving to West Valley College from the northeast. Lawrence Expressway, 2 r AREA L - KENTFIELD (Cont.) which is six lanes, places additional pressure on Quito Road for through- traffic to Highway 9 (Saratoga -Los Gatos Road) and for traffic desiring access to Campbell and Monte Sereno. A study should be made of this area to determine methods to increase safety and improve traffic flow. Current traffic jams and high volumes of traffic along the length of Allendale from Fruitvale to Quito necessitate the upgrading of Allendale to an arterial and subsequent roadway improvements to facilitate through and college -bound traffic. Except for Gardner Park along Wildcat Creek, open space and developed recreation area is very limited in the Kentfield area. This is particularly serious since residential densities here are among the highest in the City.. The lack of developed active recreation areas makes the creation of the pedestrian pathway and bicycle trails park link very important to this area. Through much of this area the PG &E right -of -way will have to be used; the City sh.ould obtain a recreation trail and pathway easements through the proposed freeway right -of -way property before development is permitted. The 1974 General Plan identified declining maintenance in some of the older residential neighborhoodsof Kentfield as a critical problem. Structural deficiencies and illegal garage conversions were compounded by poor street maintenance and drainage problems. Through participation in the Federal Community Development Block Grant Program, the City designated the Saratoga Gardens neighborhood a target area in 1975. The Saratoga Housing Assistance and Rehabilitation Program has provided loans and grants to eligible households; the result 3 AREA L - KENTFIELD (Cont.) has been considerable neighborhood improvement and a stimulus to private improvement as well. Adjacent to the railroad and utility rights -of -way which form the northern border of the area is a portion of the proposed West Valley Corridor right -of -way. It is recommended that this right -of -way be preserved. Proposed Action Programs 1. Future development in the Kentfield area shall be limited to single - family detached residential densities. Planned developments, condominiums, townhouses or apartments shall not be permitted in this planning area. 2. Undeveloped land shall be developed at low density half- acre single - family residential (R1- 20,000). Density and intensity of development shall be consistent with, but shall not exceed, that of the surrounding or adjacent neighborhood. 3. Any redevelopment shall be single- family detached residential at densities equal to or less than that permitted under the sites currant 1974 General Plan Designation. 4. Ronnie Way shall not provide a through route to Fruitvale or Saratoga Avenues other than for emergency access. 5. Any development of the land at the southeast corner of Saratoga and Fruitvale Avenues shall include appropriate landscaping and setback requirements so as to preserve the open space appearance of this portion of the area. 6. Continued effort shall be made to reduce traffic volumes in this planning area. 4 AREA L - KENTFIELD (Cont.) 7. Circulation shall be improved throughout the planning area for pedestrians and bicyclists. Quito Road shall have a bicycle path completed along its length. Allendale shall have a bicycle path completed along its length and the pedestrian route shall also be completed where there is space. The Fruitvale bicycle route shall be widened, improved and a pedestrian -route provided. 8. Quito Road and Allendale Avenue shall be considered for high priority in the City's underground power conversion program. 9. The creeks of this planning area are San Thomas, Wildcat and Vasona. Projects along these creeks shall be required to stabilize creek banks with appropriate vegetation and to restore the tree overstory. 10. Gardiner Park shall have no additional services and /or facilities. 11. The City should encourage formation of neighborhood organizations, pursue strict code enforcement, and improve public facilities in the older, higher density neighborhoods in the Kentfield area. 12. The City should investigate use of the PG &E right -of -way as a link in the pedestrian pathways and bicycle trails linear park. Should portions of the proposed freeway right -of -way be developed, easements for the linear park should be obtained in advance. 13. Quito Road should be studied to determine the type of improvement required to improve traffic safety. AREA L - KENTFIELD (Cont.) 14. Allendale should be improved -to City arterial standards and traffic flow should be improved. C:1 SUMMARY OF GOALS, POLICIES -AND ACTION PROGRAMS OF THE NORTHWESTERN HILLSIDE SPECLFIC PLAN June 2, 1981 1 00 9 SUMMARY OF GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTION PROGRAMS OF THE NORTHWESTERN HILLSIDE SPECIFIC PLAN GOALS: The goals of Measure "A" and those of the 1974 General Plan affecting this area, are adopted. Furthermore, the following goals are established: 1. Land use regulations shall be consistent with the preserva- tion of the irreplaceable natural environment of the Measure "A" area. 2. Access shall be compatible with preservation of rural chara- cter and reduced density of development. 3. Impacts on the overall natural environment shall be minimized in order to preserve the rural character. 4. Land use regulation shall be based upon natural, flood and geologic hazards. 5. Development and maintenance of public services shall minimize financial risks to the City and shall be equitable to all citizens of Saratoga. 6. The Specific Plan shall be applied with concern for individual property rights. 7. Overall long term financial, public health and safety risks to both present and future residents shall be minimized. 8. The City's irreplaceable hillside scenic resources shall be protected and preserved. 9. The rural character of the area shall be protected through substantially lower density and a compatible relationship between development and the land. POLICIES AND ACTION PROGRAMS DENSITY Policies 2 1. Land use in the western hillside area should be limited to agricultural and residential uses and appurtances thereto with plant nurseries, wineries, and recreational facilities subject to the granting of a conditional use permit. Such other uses will be allowed as may be added by the City Council consistent with the purposes and intent of the Specific Plan and Zoning District establi- shed. 2. Maximum density of development shall be based on the 2 -10 acre slope density formula subject to the following criteria: a. Any uncorrectable geote.chnical hazard areas of the site, (areas designated Did. or Mrf, as described in Table 7 of the-Geologic Hazard Analysis of the Upper Calabazas Creek Watershed by William Cotton and Associates dated-January 1980,and those portions of the Cocciardi and Paul Mas -son quarries shown by a detailed geotechnical analysis to be unsuitable for development as approved by the City Geologist)shall be placed in permanent open space and subtracted from the gross acreage prior to application of the slope density formula. Calculation of the slope shall be done for the entire parcel prior to the slope density calculation. b. Density may be furthe,i: reduced due to site restric- tions (see Geologic and Site Grading policies for siting restrictions due to geology, riparian areas, etc.) In locating building sites, preference Should be given to areas designated as stable (Sbr, Sl.s , Sun, Sox) on the Grotinci Movement Potential IN-laps . Especially sites on potentially moving slopes (Pmw, Ps, Pd) and moving slopes (Nts) shall not be approved unless geologic and soils engineering analysis and design provided by the, developer clearly demonstrate the long -term stability of such sites to the satis- faction of the City, its Geologist and other pro - fessi,onal consultants. r Action Program 1. Amend Zoning Ordinance to carry out density policies and standards of the Specific Plan and General Plan. I 10 COUNTY LANDS /SECONDARY SPECIFIC PLAN AREA Policies 1. City should control the development of adjacent lands (developed and undeveloped) with a preferred density of 20 -160 acres /unit depending on slope. 2. Lands shall not be annexed until they can be served by the City as determined by the City Council. Action Program 1. Consider a pre- zoning density designation for County lands. 2. Identify lands that the City can serve within the next five (S) years and review Urban Service Areas accordingly. SITE GRADING - Policies %, 1. Grading, when require:d, shall be contoured wherever possible even though this practice increases quantity M1 2. Any lot shown as a unit on -a recorded subdivision or land division, or any lot otherwise legally created, is exempt from the density requirements of this Specific Plan pro - vided it was created prior to April 25, 1978. Any lot so exempted will not lose its exempt status if either of the following events takes place subsequent to April 2S, 1978: a. A portion of the lot is exchanged for a portion of I any adjoining lot, the result of which does not decrease the original square footage of the lot; or b. The lot is enlarged by adjoining parcel. the addition of land from any Action Program 1. Amend Zoning Ordinance to carry out density policies and standards of the Specific Plan and General Plan. I 10 COUNTY LANDS /SECONDARY SPECIFIC PLAN AREA Policies 1. City should control the development of adjacent lands (developed and undeveloped) with a preferred density of 20 -160 acres /unit depending on slope. 2. Lands shall not be annexed until they can be served by the City as determined by the City Council. Action Program 1. Consider a pre- zoning density designation for County lands. 2. Identify lands that the City can serve within the next five (S) years and review Urban Service Areas accordingly. SITE GRADING - Policies %, 1. Grading, when require:d, shall be contoured wherever possible even though this practice increases quantity M1 4 somewhat, and provide cut and fill slopes of three to one. Graded slopes should be 3:1 overall (with potential for terracing and ability for landscaping). Revegetat_i.on of graded slopes shall be required. Steeper fill slopes, up to 2:1 may only be used where it can be shown land- . scaping and revegetation can be installed and maintained. Steeper cut slopes, up to 2:1 may only be used where it can be shown the slope can be adequately landscaped and maintenance over the long term.wil.l not be a problem and /or unusually difficult. 2. No home shall be built so as to create a flat visible pad. 3. Allow corrective grading in the western hillsides to minimize risks from geologic hazards especially for new or existing development provided it does not remove _major trees or irrevocably damage the City's scenic resources. 4. Grading should be minimized by locating roads and home - sites on slopes less than 30% unless given prior specific approval by the governing bodies. 5. Landslide and erosion problems on,developing lands shall be avoided or corrected, including replanting removed and damaged trees where the benefit to the general public exceeds the environmental impact of the corrective project. City may require that s -uch problems be corrected on adjacent lands. 6. Roads should be aligned parallel to contours rather than up the face of hills wherever possible to minimize their visibility from the valley. 7. Correction of stream erosion problems shall be accompli- shed using natural and /or natural appearing materials. Such improvements shall be considered engineered grading (and therefore be subject to Planning Commission approval). 8. Long -term maintenance of landscaped areas, open space, streams and slopes adjacent to roads shall be assured by private maintenance agreements included in subdivision CCFR's with provisions for City enforcement. 9. Large, one time grading operations, under proper control should be promoted as opposed to single lot -by -lot operations by individual lot owners. All necessary lot, A5 2 driveway and pool pad grading, should be done by the developer under bond and strict City control. 10. No home or other structure shall be built on an area with an average slope that exceeds 300 or an area that exceeds 40% natural slope at any point under the structure with possibility for variance procedure and exception from the Subdivision Ordinance for unusual situations. 11. Placement of creeks in culverts for private land use shall not be permitted except in extreme emergencies L� (i.e., potential loss of structure(s), economic con- siderations, health, safety and welfare). Use of cul- verts for road crossings may be permitted. I.J 12. Engineered grading items on the Planning Commission agenda shall be public hearings. 1�! Action Program 1. Revise Grading Ordinance accordingly. AESTHETICS /SCENIC QUALITIES Policies 1. Grouping of residential units shall be* encouraged to preserve the rural character and to allow reasonable economics of land use provided there is no increase in yield. 2. Place homes near streets where appropriate to minimize grading. Arrange lot patterns to minimize the length of roads and driveways. 3. Predominant ridgelines shall be protected to allow clear views from streets and roads. Scenic easements shall be established to protect the ridgeline.s which cup the City. 4. All structures shall be approved through Design Review i prior to issuance o.f building permits. a p on S. Encourage common recreational areas. Action Program 1. Develop a map delineating predominant ridgelines cupping the City in the western hillsides. 2. Modify the HCRD Ordinance to implement the foregoing policies. ECOLOGY Policies 1. Minimize earthmoving and grading, avoiding steep terrain except where necessary for roadways. 2. Design structures to fit terrain; group structures; phase building with improvements. 3. Minimize tree removal; avoiding heavily wooded areas, particularly chapparral. 4. Minimize disturbance of creek ecosystems by placing riparian areas in open space. S. Limit horsekeeping and use. 6. Propose trails away from creeks. 7. Revegetate graded areas as soon as feasible with native plants. Action Program 1. Review and condition tentative maps accordingly. CONSERVATION: Land, Air and Water Oualit Policies 1. The number of horses permitted shall be limited to the capacity of the site. F] 2. Preserve natural (creekside) vegetation to the greatest extent feasible. Action Program 1. Revise the Zoning Ordinance with respect to the keeping of horses and their appurtenant structures (at a minimum to disallow fences on property lines).. 2. Establish conditions for horse permits and use permits for the keeping of horses. 3. Review and revise Grading Ordinance with consideration of water quality.. WILLIAMSON ACT Policies 1. The following criteria should be used in determinations on cancelling Williamson Act contracts: a. Conformity with the-Williamson Act and the Saratoga General Plan. b. Open Space Value of the parcel of land. C. Impact on other Williamson Act lands. d. Availability of utilities. e. Public benefits. 2. Encourage renewal of Williamson Act contracts. Action Program 1. Adopt resolution establishing criteria of cancellation of Williamson Act contracts. 2. Establish a list of permitted or conditional uses with the objective of Williamson Act land being preserved for open space for the Specific Plan area. s r TRAILS AND PATHWAYS Policies 1. 1. Develop equestrian /pedestrian trail system for access to County recreation areas and Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District concurrently, or prior to, the development I of each lot. 1:= 2. Encourage trails and pathways along roadways. Action Program 1. Require development and a method of maintenance of equestrian /pedestrian trail system as part of subdivision/ site approval. 2. Develop program to promote and maintain trails in the Western Hillsides per the Trails and Pathways Task Force Report. OPEN SPACE Policies 1. Preserve the low density and natural character of Saratoga by the inclusion of permanent open space, landscaping and encouragement of agricultural land uses. 2. Conserve natural vegetative and topographic features which exist in Saratoga's western foothills. 3. Protect historical and archeological values and signifi- cant geographic landmarks from destruction by development whenever practical. 4. Require open space be dedicated as easements (all Md and Mrf areas, quarry lands shown to be'unsuitable for development through detailed geotechni.cal analysis as L approved by the City Geologist and lands within the set - back area specified by the City Geologist for traces of the Berrocal fault). Consider open space easements on riparian areas and areas with slopes of over 30.. L S. Preservation of open space should mean preservation of the natural landscape. t- i t 9 i 1 Action Program 1. Establish a legal format for accepting open space ease- ments and provide a means for maintaining the open space easements. 2. Revise the Zoning Ordinance to conform to these policies. 3. Implement agricultural zoning where appropriate to preserve open space. LAND MAINTENANCE Policies 1. Benefit of residential land use in the hills falls to hillside residents and to them should fall any extra- ; ordinary costs for maintenance of the lands and features other than City and Utility services. Action Program 7 1. Consider an ordinance and procedural requirements which ensure residents of hillside 'subdivisions pay the l extraordinary cost of maintenance of all non - public facili -ties. Private maintenance agreements, enforceable by the City without extraordinary public costs should be developed and included in CC &R's. 2. Consider use of orders of abatement rsuant to police P powers to ensure private maintenance of drainage and grading improvements (i.e. Weed Abatement Ordinance). GEOLOGY AND SOILS Policies 1. Geologic hazards should be avoided to the fullest extent possible by either correction or dedications of such areas into open space. In avoiding geologic hazards, applications proposing structures be located on lands designated Md or Mrf or wit,lia n the specific fault setbacks as designated by the City Geologist, shall not be approved. 3. The Geologic Hazards Analysis of the Upper Calabazas a Creek watershed is a planning document which may require modification. 4. No deviations or modifications of the Maps shall be- permitted without prior written approval of the City Geologist. v S. In locating building sites, preference should be given to areas designated as stable (Sbr, Sls, Sun, Sex) on the Ground Movement Potential Maps. Especially sites on potentially moving slopes (Pmw, Ps, Pd) and moving slopes (Ms) shall not be approved unless g.colog.ic and soils engineering analysis and design provided by the developer clearly demonstrate the.long -term stability of such sites to the satisfaction of the City, its Geologist and other professional consultants. 6. On questionable sites the City Geologist may require slope stability analysis with the building site and its immediately surrounding area having a factor of safety against failure of at least 1.5 or equivalent, in the event of a designed earthquake of magnitude 8.3 on the San Andreas Fault. The City Geologist shall review and approve all proposals to insure conformance with this requirement. 7. The City, Santa Clara Valley Water District, Evergreen Resource Conservation District and Santa Clara County should immediately commence proceedings with the land- owners for the stabilization of the abandoned quarry areas on th.c Paul. iNIa.sson Vineyard and Cocciardi properties as well as other erosion reduction activities. 8. If grading proposed f.or a project, as specifically approved by the Planning Commission, City Geologist and City Engi.necr, corrects a geologic hazard, then roads, drive�gays and structures may be located on such graded areas as approved. E 10 2. Every applicant seeking approval of any construction project within the Specific Plan Area shall at all times have the burden of providing, to the satisfaction of the City and its Geologist and other professional consultants, that the proposed development will be constructed in such: a manner as geologic to be safe from known hazards which may cause or reasonably predictable injury to persons or property. 3. The Geologic Hazards Analysis of the Upper Calabazas a Creek watershed is a planning document which may require modification. 4. No deviations or modifications of the Maps shall be- permitted without prior written approval of the City Geologist. v S. In locating building sites, preference should be given to areas designated as stable (Sbr, Sls, Sun, Sex) on the Ground Movement Potential Maps. Especially sites on potentially moving slopes (Pmw, Ps, Pd) and moving slopes (Ms) shall not be approved unless g.colog.ic and soils engineering analysis and design provided by the developer clearly demonstrate the.long -term stability of such sites to the satisfaction of the City, its Geologist and other professional consultants. 6. On questionable sites the City Geologist may require slope stability analysis with the building site and its immediately surrounding area having a factor of safety against failure of at least 1.5 or equivalent, in the event of a designed earthquake of magnitude 8.3 on the San Andreas Fault. The City Geologist shall review and approve all proposals to insure conformance with this requirement. 7. The City, Santa Clara Valley Water District, Evergreen Resource Conservation District and Santa Clara County should immediately commence proceedings with the land- owners for the stabilization of the abandoned quarry areas on th.c Paul. iNIa.sson Vineyard and Cocciardi properties as well as other erosion reduction activities. 8. If grading proposed f.or a project, as specifically approved by the Planning Commission, City Geologist and City Engi.necr, corrects a geologic hazard, then roads, drive�gays and structures may be located on such graded areas as approved. E 11 9. Projects or portions thereof that require a high level of .maintenance activity over the long -term to prevent slope failures should generally not be approved since the City's ability to perform or enforce performance of maintenance is limited. Project design should principally use solu- tions that minimize risk in not affecting public or (— private structures in the event of failure. 10. City should continue to strictly enforce its Grading Ordinance through the City Geologist and Department of Inspection Services and control of all work by soils engineer and geologist on all projects in hillsides. ( Action Program 1. Design and /or revise Ordinances to carry out the above policies for entire Specific Plan Area. HYDROLOGY AND FLOODING Policies 1. For site specific policies, see Site and Storm Drainage. 2. City Council, Planning Commission and City Staff should continue all available efforts to secure remedy to flooding and erosion problems along the main Calaba.zas and in already developed areas. 3. Long -term maintenance of natural watercourses of smaller size than would qualify for Santa Clara Valley !Pater District juirsdiction should be by homeowners in tributary L areas using private resources and with City review and approval of any proposed improvements or maintenance. 4. Continue (and expand to include the Specific Plan Area) pro -rata share fees for drainage, insuring that they are large enough to pay all costs of necessary facilities to eliminate flooding at the 1.00 year storm level. S. Recommend continuing support of long -term study of hydrology of area. .Action Program 1. Work with the Santa Clara Valley Water District to develop appropriate procedures for the above policies. L 12 FIRE HAZARD Policies 1. Encourage landscaping with non - hazardous, drought resistant vegetation. Action Program 1. Recommend landscaping of non- hazardous vegetation at CC$R stage. NOISE Policies 1. Minimize impact on the existing ambient noise level of the rural areas of the western hillsides through setbacks, construction techniques, roads, etc. 2. Where appropriate, be sensitive to limiting hours of construction. Action Program 1. Review Noise Ordinance to be consistent with the above policies. 2. Review and strengthen Off -Road Vehicle Ordinance. ENERGY Policies 1. Promote energy conservation through building design (as with roof orientation of new homes). 2. Promote use of both passive and active solar energy systems. Action Program 1. Consider cooperation with County on Energy Element and adoption of related ordinances. 13 CULTURAL RESOURCES Policies 1. Involve the historical society *early in the tentative map process. 2. If archeological or historical objects are encountered during construction, halt activity and seek advice of qualified archeologist or local historian. 3. Prior to tentative map approval, conduct an archeological study of each site by a professional archeologist for recommendations /mitigation. Action Program 1. Adopt a Cultural Resources Ordinance. WATER Policies 1. Upgrade provisions of water for adequate fire protection in the hillsides. 2. Improve supply of water for fire protection for existing homes by establishing the water improvement project.. Action Program 1. Allow formation of the water assessment district. 2. Continue Subdivision Ordinance Section which requires 1,000 gallons per minute of water for any new development prior to issuance of building permit. FIRE /EMERCEN,CY SERVICES Policies 1. Require wiring for Early Warning Fire Reporting System adopted by Saratoga Fire District Board with optional hookup to homeowner. 14 2. Improve response time for hillside area. 1B off Action Program VC 1. Adopt Early Warning Fire Reporting System Ordinance. 2. Study need for a Fire Station in the western hillsides and possibility for joint ownership between the two fire districts. 3. Consider specifying roofing requirements (other than wood). 4. Adopt such other measures as are necessary to increase fire protection in this area. SANITARY SEWER SERVICE Policies 1. Require all new residences on newly created lots to hook up to a sanitary sewer system to avoid groundwater contamination problems. 2. Existing residences should hook up to sewer if the structure comes within 200 feet of the sewer main. Re Action Program 1. Allow the formation of assessment districts for sewer systems on existing lots with criteria for exemptions. TELEPHONE,PGU , CABLE TV Policies 1. All new utility lines should be located underground when possible. Action Program ' 2. Coordinate utility construction throughout the hillside areas whenever possible. F#,'-I� FOO 14 15 PARK SYSTEM Policies 1. The park site on the Fremont Union High School parcel should be reviewed by the Parks and Recreation Commission. 2. Condition maps for development of trail system for access to the County recreation areas concurrently with develop- ment of the subdivision. 3. -Encourage scenic open space. Action Program 1. Require development of equestrian trail system prior to final building approval. GARBAGE /SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL Policies 1. Reduce dependence on sanitary landfill. Action Program 1. Utilize Guadalupe site. 2. Comply with resource recovery program of Solid Waste Management Program. SITE AND STORM DRAINAGE Policies 1. Developer,through actual improvements and fees, to provide for installation and maintenance of Storm Drainage System. 2. All major .facilities to be designed to provide for 100 year storms - local and minor facilities design provide for 20 year s towns . 3. Landscaping and resultant site drainage plan to be approved with Design Review approval of the residence prior to issuance of permits. 15 I 4. Site drainage plans to be approved so as to not impact �. adjacent properties. Action Program t 1. Increase improvement criteria and fees if called for ` in study. POLICE SERVICES Policies 1. Encourage participation in a neighborhood crime prevention program. Action Program 1. Require installation of wires and recommend connection to a residential electronic fire and burglary detection system. ; 2. Adopt ordinance(s) to require security measures appro- priate for the area. 3. Recognize increased need for police services as area develops. 4. Condition tentative map for emergency access gate and security review by Sheriff's Department. CIRCULATION In reviewing the findings of this report, previous reports and current City policies, the following plan is recommended L for adequate circulation and emergency access: 1. A public roadway, the SW -NE connection, between Alt. Eden and Parker Ranch Road. 2. Emergency /secondary access between a Chiquita -Comer loop and the SW -NE connection. 3. A public thrOLlgh road, Saratoga Flei_ghts Road, between 1 'Collgate and Pierce Roads. I17 4. An emergency access road from Hillmoor through the Fremont Union High School District site. S. Extensions of all other roadways shall be considered for emergency /secondary access at the time of development. Policies 1. Continue current policy of general minimum road standards with Planning Commission. Ability to authorize exceptions given special circumstances or conditions affecting the subject property. 2. Minimize cuts and fills for roadways. 3. Utilize retaining walls to reduce grading. 4. Overdesign structural section of roadways by 25 %. 5. Require public right -of -way to be offered on all private Iaccess roads used for secondary /emergency access. 6. Allow secondary /emergency access roads to be generated. 7. Roads must be built to insurable standards. 8. The City shall obtain private road maintenance agreements with subdivision developers. 9. The City shall whenever possible, require private developers and landowners to maintain private landscaped areas within right -of -ways. I Pierce Road Policies: 1. Collect fees on a per lot basis of those newly created lots to establish a fund for improving Pierce Road in a manner that would not significantly alter its character as follows: a. 13 foot paved lanes where widening does not impact the environment/ b. 11 foot paved lanes as a minimum where feasible. C. 12 foot between centerline and vertical obstructions (minimum) . 18 1 d. Overlay existing pavement to provide smooth driving surface. e. Appropriate signs before major intersections. 2. Any tree removal or extensive grading necessitated by pavement widening shall have City Council approval. Action Program 1. Adopt Circulation Plan for western hillsides. 2. Consider widening of bridges on Pierce Road. 3. Condition tentative maps appropriately. 4. Develop improvement plan for Pierce Road. ECONOMICS Policies 1. Support special legislation to provide for the levy of a special assessment other than on an ad valorem basis. Action Program 1. Lobby through League of California Cities accordingly. 2. If appropriate legislation is passed by the State then the City is encouraged to support the formation of assessment districts for the maintenance of roads and other public facilities on the basis of benefit received. PROPOSED ZONING RESTRICTIONS Policies L 1. Allow plant nurseries and wineries as conditional uses. 2. Promote recreational facilities. L 3. Inform prospective buyers through CCFR's as to whether or not a pool and /or tennis court can be constructed on the site. L 19 IAction Program 1. Revise necessary City Ordinances to implement Specific Plan. 2. Condition tentative maps appropriately. r 1. Sf4A L.