LAWRENCE-MITTY
PARK AND TRAIL
Concept Plan Report
December 2023
ATTACHMENT B
In January 2022, the City of Cupertino and
a consultant team lead by MIG, kicked off
the Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept
Plan project, with the goal of transforming
this recently acquired vacant site and existing
trail corridor into a meaningful recreation
resource for the Cupertino community.
Primary tasks were to analyze the site, gather
public input to inform community-driven
design alternatives, and arrive at a preferred,
implementable concept plan for the site. This
effort is summarized in this report, organized
by the five project phases as shown at left.
Project Background
The Lawrence-Mitty site totals about 7.83 acres,
and includes the Saratoga Creek channel along the
western boundary, reducing the developable area
to approximately 5.92 acres. The eastern boundary
of the site is adjacent to Lawrence Expressway.
Development of the site as a park and trail
extension provides greatly needed open space
for citizens on the eastern side of Cupertino, and
was included as an action in the 2020 Park and
Recreation System Master Plan (PRSMP) as part of
the City’s Master Plan Goal #3, Equitable Access.
Additionally, the site was included in the 1999 San
Tomas Aquino/Saratoga Creek Trail Master Plan
as part of Reach 5 of the trail system. A primary
element of the improvement of this site will be
to develop this segment of the trail network.
Site Acquisition
The desire for a new park and trail extension
along Lawrence Expressway near Mitty Avenue
(Lawrence-Mitty) began 20 years ago. The City
of Cupertino has considered the acquisition,
annexation, and development of a neighborhood
park on the eastern side of the City since 2002.
In July 2020, the City Council approved the
purchase of the Lawrence-Mitty site from
the Santa Clara County Roads and Airports
Department. The site was previously within
the jurisdiction, city limits, and urban service
area of the City of San Jose. In April 2022,
the Local Agency Formation Commission of
Santa Clara County (LAFCO) approved the
City of Cupertino’s request for annexation.
Develop a
Community
Vision
Conduct
Technical
Site Analysis
Create
Design
Alternatives
Develop the
Concept
Plan
Review
Environmental
Impact
Project Phases
11 2 33 4 55
2022 2023
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept Plan | 2
City of Cupertino
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION 2
PHASE 1 - Conduct Technical Site Analysis 3
• Existing Conditions
• Technical Studies
• Existing Conditions
• Opportunities & Constraints
PHASE 2 - Develop a Community Vision 6
• Community Events
• Emerging Goals and Themes
PHASE 3 - Create Design Alternatives 7
• Overview
• Community Engagement
• Design Direction
• Design Alternative Graphics
PHASE 4 - Develop the Concept Plan 12
• Park Development Phasing
• North Park and Trail Concept
• Park and Trail Concept Graphics
PHASE 5 - Review Environmental Impact 15
• Environmental Review Process
• Next Steps
Appendices
A. Environmental Summary Report
B. Public Engagement Summary
INTRODUCTION
The first phase of the Concept Plan process was
to review background information, research
the site’s existing conditions, and perform
additional site studies to fully understand the
site—both its opportunities and constraints.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
The Lawrence-Mitty project site is roughly
a half mile in length and is located in the
Rancho Rinconada neighborhood on the
east side of Cupertino, between Saratoga
Creek and the Lawrence Expressway,
as seen in the context map below.
The middle of the site lies just across the
pedestrian bridge from Sterling Barnhart Park,
a small and well-used neighborhood play area.
To the south, reachable by the existing trail, is
the Rancho Rinconada pool. The site is within a
mile from Cupertino High School, Hyde Middle
School, and Sedgwick Elementary School.
Archbishop Mitty High School (private) is
directly across the Expressway from the site.
The south section of the site includes an existing
section of the Saratoga Creek Trail, which
extends north past the pedestrian bridge from
Sterling Barnhart Park and to a crosswalk at Mitty
Way. This portion has a paved multi-use trail,
site furnishings, signage, and irrigation. Trail
improvements along the south section are noted
in some of the design concepts and depend on the
community’s priorities and final budget. There
are also several small opportunity areas where the
land widens out between the trail and creek. At
the south end of the property is an existing sound
wall that continues beyond the end of the parcel.
The north section of the site, beyond the Mitty
Way intersection, is currently fenced and locked,
and offers a large flat space with the most
recreation potential of the parcels. This area was
last used as a construction storage and staging
area by the County and holds several large soil
piles and soil berms along the top of the creek
bank, both made up of a combination of soil and
construction debris. The former use has left behind
an impervious asphalt surface, which will need to
be addressed for successful drainage and planting.
As the site was recently annexed from the
City of San Jose into Cupertino, its location at
the edge of Cupertino and San Jose requires
coordination with San Jose and Santa Clara
County on several site factors, including
traffic, access, and utility connections.
The adjacent Lawrence Expressway creates
challenges with noise, particulates, access, and
parking. In addition, I-280, at the north end
of the site, contributes additional background
noise and makes bicycle and pedestrian
connections to the north challenging.
Saratoga Creek can provide the community
with unique passive recreation opportunities
and a greater connection to nature.
Development work adjacent to the creek will
need to consider many factors, including
environmental agency regulations, grading
and stormwater management for water
quality, habitat, and existing riparian trees.
The City’s and design team’s shared goal is
to create a concept plan that addresses each
challenge and is shaped by the site’s possibilities
and the community’s vision. The Lawrence-
Mitty site has the potential to provide new
recreation uses for the neighborhood, extend trail
connections in the city and region, and improve
ecological functions along the creek corridor.
TECHNICAL STUDIES
Phase 1 included the additional technical field
studies needed to gain a better understanding
of the site conditions. Studies included: 1) a
transportation study, 2) an environmental site
assessment, 3) a noise analysis, 4) a biological
resources survey, and 5) an arborist report.
The studies were completed by multiple
subconsultants with specific technical expertise
who developed detailed reports for each
element, with the key findings compiled
into a single document, Environmental
Summary Report (ESR) in June 2022.
The ESR is organized with a section for each
topic shown in the graphic below, each of
which includes a summary of findings and
development recommendations provided to
guide the site design towards an implementable
plan. Large exhibits and full versions of the
studies are located in the ESR’s appendix.
The report’s findings, in conjunction with
input from the community on priorities,
drove development of three initial design
alternatives for the site and, after more
community feedback, a final, preferred
design concept for the park and trail.
See the following two pages for graphic
summaries of the site’s Existing Conditions
and Opportunities and Constraints.
Site Context
ENVIRONMENTAL SUMMARY REPORT
Technical Analysis
• Site Overview
• Citywide Goals and Regulations
• Access and Circulation
• Noise Reduction
• Easements and Utilities
• Soils
• Stormwater and Hydrology
• Biological Resources
• Trees & Landscape
Opportunities and Constraints
• Maps
• Next steps
Appendix (with full details of site studies)
CONDUCT
TECHNICAL
SITE ANALYSIS1
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept Plan | 3
City of Cupertino
Sound wall
Sound
wall
Sterling
Barnhart
Park
Saratoga Creek Trail
LAWRENCE EXPRESSWAY
HWY 280
STERLING BLVD
Barnhart Ave
Bike/Ped
Connection
Crossing to
Mitty Way
Saratoga Creek
1 2
3 4
65 7 8
1 2
3 4
6 5
7 8
Existing Saratoga
Creek Trail and
sound wall
Existing Saratoga Creek
Trail and open space
Saratoga Creek Crossing at Lawrence
Expressway and Mitty Way
Large open spaceLarge open space
Saratoga Creek Park/trail terminusMiles
1/80
Feet
5002500 50 100
MAP LEGEND
Saratoga Creek
Lawrence-Mitty Park Boundary
Existing Trees
Existing Saratoga Creek Trail
Existing Access Point
Existing Bike/Pedestrian Route
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept Plan | 4
City of Cupertino
1. SITE ANALYSIS: EXISTING CONDITIONS
MAP LEGEND
Saratoga Creek
Lawrence-Mitty Park Boundary
Existing Trees
Existing Saratoga Creek Trail
Existing Bike/Pedestrian Route
Tree Root Protection Zone
Existing Sound Wall
Open Space for Recreation
Soil Piles for Removal
• Limited visibility at sound walls
• Saratoga Creek constraints: environmental
agency regulations, no development
below top of bank, limited tree removal
• Remnant soil piles (construction debris)
• Remnant berms with mature tree
roots limit removal options
• Maintenance/emergency access points from
expressway impact potential noise mitigation
• Road noise and visibility
• Elevated levels of lead in soil
adjacent to expressway
• Utility coordination required with San
Jose (water, sewer, stormwater)
• Limited parking (on-street only)
• Elevated levels of lead in soil
adjacent to expressway
• Remnant impervious surface
negatively impacts creek health
• Remnant soil piles (construction debris)
• Remnant berms with mature
tree roots limit removal
• Saratoga Creek constraints: environmental
agency regulations, no development
below top of bank, limited tree removal
• Road noise and visibility
• Maintenance/emergency access points from
expressway impact potential noise mitigation
• Steep creek edge with stepped gabions
• Constrained park space
• No current bike/pedestrian connection north
• Highway noise from I-280
• Regional trail connection to Rancho
Rinconada pool and beyond
• Reduced noise level at sound walls
• Views to the creek possible with
berm and soil pile removals
• Small open spaces for passive
recreation or creek overlooks
• Existing maintenance/emergency access
• Existing trail and park amenities
• On-street connections to parks and
three schools less than a mile away
• Potential collaboration with schools for
environmental education opportunities
• Existing small neighborhood park with
play area and pedestrian bridge
• On-street connections to Archbishop
Mitty High School and John Mise Park
• Removal of soil piles (construction debris)
• Reduction of impervious surface,
improving creek health
• Large open space for a range of
recreation opportunities
• Views to the creek possible with
berm and soil pile removals
• Lower noise levels far from expressway
• Existing maintenance/emergency access
• Lower noise levels at sound wall
• Potential bike/pedestrian connection
north to Stevens Creek Blvd
Lawrence ExpresswayLawrence Expressway
Calvert Calvert DriveDrive
Crossing to Crossing to
Mitty WayMitty Way
see map northsee map north
Sterling BoulevardSterling Boulevard
see map southsee map south
Saratoga CreekSaratoga Creek
Lawrence ExpresswayLawrence Expressway
Sterling Sterling
Barnhart Barnhart
ParkPark
Crossing to Crossing to
Mitty WayMitty Way
Sterling BoulevardSterling Boulevard
Saratoga CreekSaratoga Creek
see map northsee map north
Lawrence ExpresswayLawrence Expressway
Sterling Sterling
Barnhart Barnhart
ParkPark
Crossing to Crossing to
Mitty WayMitty Way
Sterling BoulevardSterling Boulevard
Saratoga CreekSaratoga Creek
Lawrence ExpresswayLawrence Expressway
Calvert Calvert DriveDrive
Crossing to Crossing to
Mitty WayMitty Way
Sterling BoulevardSterling Boulevard
see map southsee map south
Saratoga CreekSaratoga Creek
14 13
15 16
17 18
19 20
10 11
12 1
2 3
6 4
5 8
7 9
1 2
3 4
5 6
7 8
9 11
12 13
14 15
16 17
18 19
20 10
1 2
3 4
5 6
7 8
9 11
12 13
14 15
16 17
18 10
1 2
3 4
5 6
7 8
9 11
12 13
14 15
16 17
18 10
Feet
2000 50 100
Feet
2000 50 100
MAP LEGEND
Saratoga Creek
Lawrence-Mitty Park Boundary
Existing Trees
Existing Saratoga Creek Trail
Tree Root Protection Zone
Soil Adjacent to Expressway
Gap in Existing Sound Wall
Soil Berms and Piles (approximate)
Constraints Map: South Opportunities Map: South
Constraints Map: North Opportunities Map: North
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept Plan | 5
City of Cupertino
1. SITE ANALYSIS: OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS
EMERGING GOALS & THEMES
The information gathered from the engagement
efforts by the City of Cupertino, and MIG
provided important insights and an understanding
of the community’s goals and desires for the
Lawrence-Mitty Park & Trail. In summary,
to meet community needs and expectations
for the new park and trail extension, the
focus for the site design should include:
• Wildlife, nature, and education features
• A variety of features to appeal to all ages
• Bike trail extension from Mitty Way
to the large open space area
• Bike trail connection to the north
• Separated walking paths
• Play Features - Nature play and
play elements for older kids
• Comfort features: restrooms, seating
• Reduction of on-site noise levels
• Considerations for site safety
• Shade trees and native plants
for habitat enhancement
• Dogs in the park
The community engagement effort was
planned to ensure that the goals and ideas
from the neighborhood and potential users
are incorporated into the design of the
Lawrence-Mitty Park & Trail Concept Plan.
The following is a brief description of each
event and a synthesis of ideas and priorities
that emerged from this engagement effort.
A more complete engagement summary
is provided in the Appendix.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
POP-UP EVENTS
Bunny Run 5K – April 16, 2022 8:00 to 11:00
a.m. and Saturday Soccer at Creekside
Park – May 7, 10 a.m. to noon.
Goals: Inform the community of the project,
provide an opportunity for questions, elicit
input on desired park amenities, and continue
to build a list of interested community members
for the upcoming review of the alternatives.
Participants: Input from about 30
community members at each event.
Content: Project fact sheet, Site Analysis and
Project Overview boards were shared and
residents were encouraged to add their specific
comments to the boards using post-it notes.
VIRTUAL COMMUNITY MEETING
April 27, 2022 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.
Participants: Input from about 15 participants.
Content: The Zoom meeting included a
presentation on the project overview and analysis,
polling questions,and an open Q&A Session.
LAWRENCE-MITTY COMMUNITY SITE TOUR
April 30, 2022 10 a.m. to noon
Goals: This event provided an opportunity for
the community to visit the site that will become
the new park. Also, this was another opportunity
to gather feedback from residents on a range of
issues from their thoughts and concerns about
the trail, the access points, and their overall
experience and comfort within the site.
Participants: 60-70 community members.
Content: Participants were greeted at a welcome
station and given a Site Tour Handout for
the self-guided tour to four stations. Boards
showing project opportunities, existing site
conditions and challenges provided information
and space for users to add their comments.
ONLINE SURVEY
Open from April 4 - May 23, 2022
Participants: 563 respondents
Content: The survey included a variety of
question types designed to understand the
community’s priorities for the future park and
trail improvements at the Lawrence-Mitty site.
The bulk of the survey concentrated on desired
recreation experiences for the new park and
existing trail section. In addition, participants
were asked to provide anonymous information
about themselves, including if they live within
walking distance of Lawrence-Mitty Park,
how often they use the Saratoga Creek Trail,
and what neighborhood they reside in.
DEVELOP A
COMMUNITY
VISION2
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept Plan | 6
City of Cupertino
• Pop-Up Event at the Library
October 8, 2022 10 a.m. to noon
• Drop-in Site Visit at the future
park and trail site
October 15, 2022 10 a.m. to noon
• Virtual Community Meeting
October 17, 2022 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
• Online Survey
October 3 – October 31, 2022
Staff explained in the community events that
there are cost tradeoffs for different recreation
elements, noise abatement, restrooms and
extents of work. The goal of sharing the
alternatives was to understand community
priorities, maximize the park’s benefits for
the community within the project budget and
guide direction of the final preferred plan.
DESIGN DIRECTION
Of the three concepts, the top-rated overall
design was Concept B – Story Trail, with
Concept A – Play it Up coming in second.
The top community priorities emerging from
Concept B were connecting with nature and
opening views to the creek, while interpretive
signage had low scores from the community.
We also took a look at the top preferred features
across all concepts. Items noted in bold below
were included in Concept B and in the final plan.
In addition, Nature Play and Play Features shown
in Concepts A & B were incorporated into the final
concept plan to the extent that budget allows.
Top Priorities for the Final Concept:
• Creekside Deck Overlook &
Creekside Benches
• Dry Creek Feature & Expanded Natural Areas
• Nature Play Areas (e.g., log
balance, climbing rock)
• Play Area Features (e.g.,
climbing net, nest swings)
Providing compatible active play alongside the
creekside nature experience will draw more of the
community to the area, which will be beneficial
to site safety. It will also help address what was
heard in both rounds of community engagement
for additional community goals and priorities:
• Include play for all – variety of
recreation opportunities for all ages,
abilities, range of user groups
• Support an interconnected recreation
system, future connections
• Provide social and resting spaces
Additional Community Input:
Restroom: We heard that inclusion of a restroom
in the park and trail area is important to many
community members for a successful, comfortable
park experience. Some neighbors near Sterling
Barnhart Park are opposed to a restroom in Sterling
Barnhart but support it elsewhere. Unfortunately,
providing one in the new park area is much more
costly due to utility connections, and will not fit
within the budget without losing the recreation
experiences the community is looking for.
Noise Reduction: The community would
like to reduce noise with either a sound
wall or a soil berm along the expressway at
the new park site. Cost, effectiveness and
park aesthetics will determine how much of
each is incorporated into the final plan.
OVERVIEW
In Phase 3, the design team incorporated what was
learned through the site analysis and community
visioning into three design alternatives—all
appropriate for the site and project budget.
All three alternatives included the
following design elements that were
prioritized by the community:
• Emphasis on Biking, Walking,
Play, Nature, and the Creek
• Multi-Use Trail Extension with space
for a future connection to the North
• Walking Trails separated from bikes
• Comfort and Safety Features: Seating,
sound wall, berm or fencing along the
expressway, and an emergency phone
• Soils: Existing soil piles in the open staging area
will be removed. Edge-of-creek soil berms will
be removed wherever it is safe for mature tree
roots. This soil may be repurposed as cover soil
along the expressway edge in the north area.
• Vegetation: Shade trees, native and drought
tolerant plants, enhanced riparian plantings,
and bioretention areas to treat runoff.
In addition to these baseline priorities, each
concept had a unique focus for its additional
recreation features. The focus and features
are summarized in the following concept
descriptions and a summary graphic on the next
page, followed by the three individual plans.
CONCEPT A: WHEEL FUN
Main Features: Bicycles and Fitness
Description: The park’s location is naturally
geared towards bikes and this concept goes all
in on bike features. The north area features a
small to mid-size BMX skills course for teens and
adults. Seating is provided for those who want to
watch, rather than perform, the tricks. The south
end offers younger kids a small pump track away
from the main trail. There are new walking trails,
fitness stations and small nature play elements to
appeal to all ages and those less bike-inclined.
CONCEPT B: STORY TRAIL
Main Features: Nature, Trails,
and Interpretive Features
Description: This concept makes the most of
the creek side setting and is the “most wild,
least developed” of the three alternatives. It has
more extensive planted area and tree cover, and
highlights bioretention areas by weaving them
into the path network using small footbridges to
cross. Features include an enhanced deck overlook
near the creek and nature play elements, including
a dry creek bed meant for kids to explore. Both
the south and north areas of the site offer new
walking trails and interpretive elements centered
on the site’s history and environmental education.
CONCEPT C: PLAY IT UP
Main Features: Play, Fitness and
Flexible Open Space
Description: This concept provides play and fitness
features that build on what is offered in Sterling
Barnhart’s small footprint to offer more for all
ages. Play elements include a net climber geared
towards ages 5-12, basket swings that work for
singles or doubles of all ages, and a log scramble
for nature play. Fitness stations are placed along
a loop path that surrounds a flexible lawn space.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Next, the City and design team shared
the alternatives with the community
for feedback through four events:
CREATE
DESIGN
ALTERNATIVES3
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept Plan | 7
City of Cupertino
DESIGN ALTERNATIVES SUMMARY DIAGRAMS
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept Plan | 8
City of Cupertino
3. DESIGN ALTERNATIVES
Simple
Exercise Stations
Bike Pump
Track (Kids)
New Restroom at
Sterling Barnhart Park
Small Nature Play
Elements Along Trail
Trail Turn-AroundBike Skills Courses
(Teen/Adult)
Creekside Bench
Overlooks
Miles
1/80
Feet
5002500 50 100
Saratoga Creek
Lawrence-Mitty Park Boundary
Tree Canopy
Proposed Bioswale Planting
Proposed Lawn Area
Proposed Recreation Feature
Protective Fencing
Proposed Sound Wall Extension
Existing Sound Wall
Existing Multi-Use Trail
Existing Pedestrian Route
Proposed Multi-Use Trail
Proposed Pedestrian Route
Future Trail Connection
MAP LEGEND
Sterling
Barnhart
Park
Existing
bridge
Crossing
at Mitty
Way
Lawrence
Expressway
32 4
LAWRENCE-MITTY
PARK AND TRAIL PLAN
1 5
BIKE PUMP
TRACK (KIDS)
EXERCISE
STATIONS
MAINTENANCE
ACCESS
MAINTENANCE
ACCESSBARRIER FENCE
ON EARTHEN BERM
SOUND WALL
EXTENSION
NATURE
PLAY
NATURE
PLAY
NATURE
PLAY
BIKE SKILLS COURSES
(TEENS/ADULTS)
FUTURE TRAIL
CONNECTION
NORTH
CREEK
OVERLOOK
CREEKSIDE
BENCHES
PEDESTRIAN
TRAIL
PEDESTRIAN
TRAIL
CREEKSIDE
BENCHES
NEW
RESTROOM
SEATING AT LAWN
EXERCISE
STATIONS
NATURE PLAY
TRAIL TURNAROUND
N
N
4 4
ATURE
4 COU
1 5
5 ERCIS
3 3
2 4
5 CONCEPT A: WHEEL FUN
Bicycles and Fitness
CONCEPT A - WHEEL FUN
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept Plan | 9
City of Cupertino
3. DESIGN ALTERNATIVES
Large open spaceLarge open space
Nature Play:
Log Balance
Interpretive Features
Along Trails
Dry Creek and
Expanded Natural Areas
Nature Play:
Climbing Rock
Creekside Deck
Overlook
Picnic Tables
Along Trail
Saratoga Creek
Lawrence-Mitty Park Boundary
Tree Canopy
Proposed Bioswale Planting
Proposed Lawn Area
Proposed Recreation Feature
Protective Fencing
Proposed Sound Wall Extension
Existing Sound Wall
Existing Multi-Use Trail
Existing Pedestrian Route
Proposed Multi-Use Trail
Proposed Pedestrian Route
Future Trail Connection
MAP LEGEND
Sterling
Barnhart
Park
Existing
bridge
Crossing
at Mitty
Way
Miles
1/80
Feet
5002500 50 100
Lawrence
Expressway
LAWRENCE-MITTY
PARK AND TRAIL PLAN
CONCEPT B: STORY TRAIL
Nature, Trails, and Interpretive Features
4 1 2 3
MAINTENANCE
ACCESS
INTERPRETIVE
FEATURE:
ORCHARD
PLANTING
CREEKSIDE DECK
OVERLOOK
INTERPRETIVE FEATURE:
INDIGENOUS HISTORY INTERPRETIVE
FEATURE:
OAK TREE
MAINTENANCE
ACCESS
SOUND WALL
EXTENSION
SOUND WALL
EXTENSION
DRY CREEK
AND EXPANDED
NATURAL AREAS
CREEK
OVERLOOK
CREEK
OVERLOOK
PICNIC
TABLES
PICNIC
TABLES
NATURE PLAY:
CLIMBING ROCK
NATURE PLAY:
LOG BALANCE
INTERPRETIVE
FEATURE:
SARATOGA
CREEK
INTERPRETIVE FEATURE:
NATIVE RESTORATION
NATURE PLAY:
DRY CREEKBED
1 3
1 Y CRE
4 2
2 3
3 1
1 2
1 FUTURE TRAIL
CONNECTION
NORTH
CONCEPT B - STORY TRAIL
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept Plan | 10
City of Cupertino
3. DESIGN ALTERNATIVES
Creekside Bench
OverlooksPlay Area: Net Climber
Fitness Station Circuit
Picnic Grove New Restroom at
Sterling Barnhart Park
Flex LawnPlay Area: Swings
Nature Play Area:
Log Scramble
Miles
1/80
Feet
5002500 50 100
Saratoga Creek
Lawrence-Mitty Park Boundary
Tree Canopy
Proposed Bioswale Planting
Proposed Lawn Area
Proposed Recreation Feature
Protective Fencing
Proposed Sound Wall Extension
Existing Sound Wall
Existing Multi-Use Trail
Existing Pedestrian Route
Proposed Multi-Use Trail
Proposed Pedestrian Route
Future Trail Connection
MAP LEGEND
Sterling
Barnhart
Park
Existing
bridge
Crossing
at Mitty
Way
Lawrence
Expressway
LAWRENCE-MITTY
PARK AND TRAIL PLAN
5 2
4 1 3
MAINTENANCE
ACCESS
MAINTENANCE
ACCESS
PROTECTIVE FENCING
(EXISTING)
SOUND WALL
EXTENSION
FLEX
LAWN
CREEKSIDE
BENCH
CREEKSIDE
BENCH
PEDESTRIAN
TRAIL
PEDESTRIAN
TRAIL
PICNIC
GROVE
NATURE PLAY AREA:
LOG SCRAMBLE
PEDESTRIAN
TRAIL
PLAY AREA:
NET CLIMBER
PLAY AREA:
SWINGS
FITNESS
STATION CIRCUIT
1 5
5 1
1 3
CNIC
4 2
FUTURE TRAIL
CONNECTION
NORTH
CONCEPT C: PLAY IT UP
Play, Fitness, and Flexible Open Space
NEW
RESTROOM
CONCEPT C - PLAY IT UP
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept Plan | 11
City of Cupertino
3. DESIGN ALTERNATIVES
A final concept plan was developed drawing
on the site’s opportunities & constraints,
the community’s vision for the park and
feedback on the draft concepts.
The community-driven design focuses on
extending the existing multi-use trail along
Saratoga Creek and providing a new 2.8-acre
park with open space, enhanced riparian and
upland plantings, extended bike trail, soft surface
trails, play opportunities, shade, seating, and
a berm separating it from the expressway.
PARK DEVELOPMENT PHASING
The visioning process and draft concepts included
the entire length of the site to understand
community needs and priorities. This community
input was used to establish the extent that
is feasible within the available construction
budget. Refer to the phasing graphic below for
the Current Phase and potential Future Phases.
The south section of trail has less park space
opportunity but is already a functioning public
space with a multi-use trail. While the north area
offers the significant open space opportunity,
it does require a large budget to transform the
former construction staging area into a park.
Based on community goals, the current project
budget is being prioritized in the north area to
create a new park and trail. With future funds,
a new restroom or large net climber could
be installed at the park site, and additional
improvements could be planned for the
south area and the north trail connection.
FUTURE IMPROVEMENTS -
SOUTH PARK AND TRAIL
Although the north area is the largest opportunity
on site, there are a number of community amenities
that could be implemented in the south section in
the future. There are several areas along the existing
trail for smaller park features. Possibilities include:
• Multi-use trail improvements (widening,
resurfacing, benches, wayfinding);
• Separated soft-surface pedestrian trails;
• New fencing or additional sound wall;
• Small park features (bike pump track, nature
play, exercise stations, picnic tables);
• Interpretive features;
• Removal of soil berm along the
creek edge, where possible;
• Enhanced riparian plantings; and
• Creekside benches or overlook.
FUTURE IMPROVEMENTS
- TRAIL CONNECTION NORTH
Extending the trail north to existing bike lanes at
Stevens Creek Boulevard was a priority for the
community and meets citywide goals identified
in the PRSMP, Bicycle Plan, and Climate Action
Plan. Stevens Creek Boulevard’s existing bike
lanes are currently Class II, and a Class IV
Separated Bikeway is proposed for much of it in
the future. However, several constraints make this
connection difficult – narrow conditions, multiple
fast-moving traffic lanes, elevated roadways, and
multiple jurisdictions (City of Cupertino, City of
San Jose, Santa Clara County, Caltrans, VTA, and
environmental agencies overseeing the creek).
The site’s property limits, project budget and
required jurisdictional coordination required makes
the trail extension impossible to achieve in this
phase. However, with future regional coordination
and additional budget this connection could be
achieved in the long-term. The project currently
includes a trail turnaround and maintenance
access point from Lawrence Expressway to
allow for this important future connection.
Sound wall
Sound
wall
Sterling
Barnhart
Park
Saratoga Creek Trail
LAWRENCE EXPRESSWAY
HWY 280
STERLING BLVD
Barnhart Ave
Bike/Ped
Connection
Crossing to
Mitty Way
Saratoga Creek
Saratoga Creek Trail
Sound wall
Saratoga Creek Trail
Saratoga Creek Trail
North Park and Trail:
Concept Plan
(Priority Project)
South Park and Trail:
Trail and recreation
enhancements
Trail Connection North:
Continuation to
Stevens Creek Blvd
DEVELOP THE
CONCEPT
PLAN4
PARK AND TRAIL CONCEPT PHASING
CURRENT PHASE FUTURE PHASE FUTURE PHASE
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept Plan | 12
City of Cupertino
NORTH PARK AND
TRAIL CONCEPT
The community’s preferred direction is a park
with a natural aesthetic, with walking trails,
enhanced native plantings, views of the creek and
new nature play opportunities, as shown in the
inspiration images and concept plan on the next
page. The community-driven design includes:
• Extending the existing multi-use
trail along Saratoga Creek, attracting
bicyclists and pedestrians to the park;
• Soft surface trails (decomposed granite) for
exercise and enjoying the natural surroundings;
• Play features that build on the offerings
at Sterling Barnhart, including Nest
Swings, a Log and Boulder Seating
Circle and a Climbing Rock;
• Shaded benches and picnic tables for
resting and small gatherings;
• Several creekside bench overlooks to
provide shady resting places with views
towards the creek and riparian plantings;
• Creekside deck overlook to provide
one purposeful opportunity for a
close-up view into the creek;
• Visible stormwater improvements, with
a dry creek collecting and routing water
into the bioretention area and improving
the water quality of the creek;
• Additional riparian plantings east of the
existing riparian zone along the creek;
• New upland plantings between the
riparian edge and expressway, replacing
the paved staging area with shade
trees and native and species;
• Open meadow with native
grasses and wildflowers;
• Landscape berm with trees, as
both a visual barrier and for noise
reduction from the expressway;
• Space set aside for a future restroom; and
• Maintenance access/trail turnaround
for a future connection to the North.
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS -
SARATOGA CREEK
The project design emphasizes reconnecting
the community to nature and to Saratoga
Creek. At the same time, the design
minimizes and avoids impacts to the creek
and its riparian habitat with most proposed
elements avoiding these sensitive areas.
The project incorporates stormwater facilities
and bioretention areas in upland areas promote
groundwater infiltration and naturally treat on-
site stormwater runoff before it reaches the creek.
The project will result in a net loss of impervious
surfaces through conversion of developed areas
into vegetated areas using native and drought-
tolerant species. The native planting will include
a meadow with native grasses and wildflowers.
Play Area:
Nest Swings
Trail Turn-around
Bench Overlook / Shaded Seating Area
Creek Overlook Deck
Boardwalk Crossing
Play Area:
Rock Climber
Nature Play Area:
Logs and Boulders
Bioretention Area /Stormwater (Dry Creek)
Native / Climate Adapted Landscaping
4 1
2 3
6 7
8 9
5 NORTH PARK AND TRAIL CONCEPT INSPIRATION IMAGES
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept Plan | 13
City of Cupertino
4. CONCEPT PLAN
Though the creekside deck overlook will extend
over the top of bank, the foundation and support
beams for the deck will be placed entirely outside of
the top of bank to minimize impacts to creek habitat.
Lighting is not planned due to its detrimental
effect on wildlife. The exception may be at a future
restroom, which is close to the expressway.
CONCEPT LEGEND
Park Boundary
Saratoga Creek (OHWM)
Top of Bank
Existing Vegetation:
Riparian Zone
Tree Canopy (Existing)
Tree Root Protection Zone
New Vegetation:
Trees (Proposed)
Stormwater Areas
Native/Climate Adapted Planting
Open Meadow Space
Circulation:
Paved Multi-use Path
Walking Path
Maintenance/Emergency Access
Recreation Features:
Play Area
Creekside Deck Overlook
Creekside Bench Overlook
Shaded Seating / Picnic Table
Inspiration Images:
See image collage
#
8 7
2 4
3 5
6 1
9 Potential
Restroom
Location
(Future)
Stormwater
(Dry Creek)
Pedestrian
Crossing to
Mitty Way
(Existing) trail
continues
south
(New) trail
continues
north
Boardwalk
Crossings
Play Area:
Nest Swings
Creekside Bench
Overlook
/ Shaded Seating
Picnic
Grove
Creekside
Overlook
Deck
Pedestrian Bridge to
Sterling Barnhart Park
Existing bank
stabilization
Gated Entrance
Maintenance /
Emergency Access
Gated Entrance
Maintenance /
Emergency Access
Bioretention
Area
Landscape Berm
(6-8 ft high for noise
reduction, road buffer)
Nature Play Area
(Future Net Climber)
Play Area:
Rock Climber
Meadow Area
Boardwalk
Crossing
Trail Turn-around
Native / Climate
Adapted Landscaping
Future Trail
Connection North to
Stevens Creek Blvd
NORTH PARK AND TRAIL CONCEPT GRAPHIC
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept Plan | 14
City of Cupertino
4. CONCEPT PLAN
Code section 1602. An initial meeting with these
resource agencies at this design phase will identify
specific concerns that can be addressed in the next
design phase and reflected in permit applications.
The meeting is currently being scheduled.
PROPOSED MITIGATION
The project is expected to be well-received by
the agencies, since all temporarily impacted
areas within riparian habitat will be restored to
pre-project conditions or better. If required, the
project team will consult with the agencies on
suitable compensatory mitigation for permanent
impacts to riparian habitat. In addition, impacts
to jurisdictional waters and biological resources
will be minimized through the implementation
of mitigation measures. Measures are expected
to include preconstruction surveys, non-
disturbance buffers for special-status species (if
present), prohibition of mono-filament netting,
avoidance of riparian habitat, avoidance of
waters, tree protection, and best management
practice (BMPs) to protect water quality.
NEXT STEPS
Next, this concept plan will be reviewed by City
Council for approval. As soon as the CEQA
review process is complete and City Council
signs off on both the plan and CEQA (winter
2024), City staff and a consultant team can
begin work on full construction drawings for
the North Park and Trail. Public bidding to
select a contractor is anticipated one year later
followed by a one-year construction period.
ENVIRONMENTAL
REVIEW PROCESS
CEQA
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
requires state and local government agencies to
inform decision makers and the public about the
potential environmental impacts of proposed
projects, and to reduce those environmental
impacts to the extent feasible. In accordance with
the CEQA Guidelines, the City of Cupertino has
been established as the lead agency for the project.
The lead agency is defined in the CEQA Guidelines
as, “the public agency which has the principal
responsibility for carrying out or approving
a project.” The lead agency is responsible for
preparing the appropriate environmental review
document under CEQA. The Cupertino City
Council serves as the decision-making body
for the City and is responsible for adopting the
CEQA document and approving the project.
The CEQA Guidelines states a public agency
shall prepare a proposed Negative Declaration
or a Mitigated Negative Declaration when:
1. The Initial Study shows that there is no
substantial evidence, in light of the whole
record before the agency, that the project may
have a significant effect on the environment, or
2. The Initial Study identifies potentially
significant effects, but:
- Revisions in the project plans made
before a proposed Mitigated Negative
Declaration and Initial Study are released
for public review would avoid the effects
or mitigate the effects to a point where
no significant effects would occur, and
- There is no substantial evidence, in light
of the whole record before the agency,
that the project as revised may have a
significant effect on the environment.
The project team has recently completed a
draft CEQA Initial Study (IS) that evaluates the
environmental impacts of the proposed Saratoga
Creek Nature Park Master Plan and provides
mitigation measures that would reduce potential
impacts to a less than significant level. Pursuant to
the CEQA Guidelines, the City has determined that
a Mitigated Negative Declaration is the appropriate
environmental review document for the Lawrence-
Mitty Park and Trail Plan project. To ensure that
the mitigation measures and project revisions
identified in a Mitigated Negative Declaration
(MND) are implemented, CEQA requires the
City to adopt a program for monitoring or
reporting on the revisions which it has required
in the project and the measures it has imposed
to mitigate or avoid significant environmental
effects. The City shall prepare a Mitigation,
Monitoring and Reporting Plan based on the
mitigation measures contained in the IS/MND.
The CEQA process requires that the draft IS/
MND be circulated for public review and
comments. To review the document and stay
informed of project status updates, please
see the City of Cupertino web page for the
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Plan project at
https://engagecupertino.org/lawrencemitty.
PERMITTING
The project is adjacent to Saratoga Creek, and will
require work within the top of bank and riparian
habitat, including a proposed Creekside deck
overlook and pedestrian trails. It will not require
the placement of fill materials within the ordinary
high-water mark (OWHM) and therefore remains
outside of the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers. However, these design features
are within the jurisdiction of the Regional Water
Quality Control Board (RWQCB) and the California
Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and will
require permits under the Porter-Cologne Water
Quality Control Act and California Fish and Game
REVIEW
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT5
Lawrence-Mitty Park and Trail Concept Plan | 15
City of Cupertino