ATTACHMENT B
DRAFT RLUA NO. 2026 –____
RECORD OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO LAND USE ACTION FOR 375 HAMILTON AVENUE: MAJOR ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW
[FILE NO. 26PLN-00050]
On __________, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing and, after considering all of the evidence presented, approved the Major Architectural Application to allow construction of a new six-story parking garage with a total of 265 parking spaces on the existing surface-level parking Lot D, making the following findings, determination, and declarations:
SECTION 1. Background. The City Council of the City of Palo Alto (“City Council”) finds, determines, and declares as follows:
A. On April 14, 2025, City Council reviewed garage design options and choose Option 1a Waverley Residential as their preferred option that included a six-level above-ground parking structure with 274 parking stalls and reserved area for a future affordable housing component, to be used presently as a public plaza.
B. On December 4, 2025, the Architectural Review Board (ARB) conducted a study session to review preliminary design concepts, including three façade options based on Council’s selected scheme.
C. On March 10, 2026, Watry Design Inc., on behalf of city of Palo Alto Public Works Engineering, applied for a Major Architectural Review application to allow construction of a new six- story parking garage with a total of 265 parking spaces on the existing surface-level parking Lot D located at 375 Hamilton Avenue (120-15-086). (“The Project”).
D. On June 4, 2026 the Architectural Review Board held a duly noticed public hearing to consider the addendum to the previously certified Environmental Impact Report (EIR) (SCH# 2017052040) and recommend approval of the Major Architectural Review application.
E. On September 14, 2026, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing at which evidence was considered, and all persons were afforded an opportunity to be heard in accordance with the City Council’s policies and procedures.
SECTION 2. Environmental Review. In conformance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), an Addendum to the previously certified EIR (Council Resolution No. 9818, February 11, 2019) has been prepared in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15164.
SECTION 3. Architectural Review Findings. The design and architecture of the proposed improvements, as conditioned, complies with the Architectural Review Findings as required per PAMC Section 18.76.020.
Finding 1: The design is consistent with applicable provisions of the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan,
Zoning Code, coordinated area plans (including compatibility requirements), and any relevant design guides.
The project is consistent with Finding #1 because:
The site’s Regional/Community Commercial designation in the Comprehensive Plan supports public- serving and mixed-use development in the Downtown area. The project replaces an existing surface parking lot with a more efficient use that increases parking supply, supports mobility and economic vitality goals, and incorporates provisions for future affordable housing consistent with Housing Element Program 1.4.
The site is zoned Public Facilities (PF), where public parking and City-sponsored housing are permitted uses. While the project exceeds certain development standards, it qualifies for a Development Standards Exception pursuant to PAMC Section 18.28.060(e), as analyzed in Staff Report (#2601-5814).
Staff has determined that the proposed project is in compliance with the applicable Public Facilities (PF) Development Standards per Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) Section 18.28.050.
The project is also consistent with the Downtown Urban Design Guidelines for the Hamilton Avenue District by enhancing the pedestrian environment through widened sidewalks, landscaping, and improved connections and façade articulation. Accordingly, the project meets Finding 1.
Finding 2: The project has a unified and coherent design, that:
(a) Creates an internal sense of order and desirable environment for occupants, visitors, and the general community,
(b) Preserves, respects and integrates existing natural features that contribute positively to the site and the historic character including historic resources of the area when relevant, (c) Is consistent with the context-based design criteria of the applicable zone district, (d) Provides harmonious transitions in scale, mass and character to adjacent land uses and land use designations,
(e) Enhances living conditions on the site (if it includes residential uses) and in adjacent residential areas.
The project is consistent with Finding #2 because:
This finding can be made in affirmative, as the proposed project creates a functional environment for community users by incorporating clear vehicular circulation, defined pedestrian pathways, a paseo connection, and a publicly accessible plaza with ground-level improvements such as widened sidewalks and new street trees and landscaping to support a pedestrian-friendly environment. Context-based design criteria do not apply in the Public Facilities (PF) zone, however the project responds to its urban context through modulation of massing and incorporation of pedestrian-scale elements, providing a reasonable transition to adjacent development. The site is not adjacent to residential uses, minimizing impacts on residential uses, and the design respects nearby historic resources through materials and architectural treatments that reflect the established downtown character.
Finding 3: The design is of high aesthetic quality, using high quality, integrated materials and appropriate construction techniques, and incorporating textures, colors, and other details that are
compatible with and enhance the surrounding area.
The project is consistent with Finding #3 because:
This finding can be made in the affirmative, as the proposed project demonstrates a high level of aesthetic quality through the use of durable and high quality materials. The design incorporates a combination of metal screening, concrete finishes, and architectural detailing that work together to create a visually unified architecture while screening parking areas. The façades are articulated with variations in texture, depth, and pattern to reduce perceived massing and provide visual interest at both the pedestrian and building scale. Ground-level elements, including landscaping, paving, and pedestrian-oriented features, further reinforce the project’s visual quality and integration with the public realm.
Finding 4: The design is functional, allowing for ease and safety of pedestrian and bicycle traffic and providing for elements that support the building's necessary operations (e.g. convenient vehicle access to property and utilities, appropriate arrangement and amount of open space and integrated signage, if applicable, etc.).
The project is consistent with Finding #4 because:
This finding can be made in the affirmative, as the project’s design supports functional, safe, and efficient circulation for vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles. Vehicular ingress and egress are clearly organized via the Hamilton Avenue entry/exit and separated from pedestrian and bicycle access for ease and safety.
Pedestrian circulation is enhanced through widened sidewalks, a paseo connection through the site, and a publicly accessible plaza. Electrical and trash rooms are strategically located along the rear one-way service access, Lane 21, to efficiently serve the building and adjacent commercial properties.
Finding 5: The landscape design complements and enhances the building design and its surroundings, is appropriate to the site's functions, and utilizes to the extent practical, regional indigenous drought resistant plant material capable of providing desirable habitat that can be appropriately maintained.
The project is consistent with Finding #5 because:
This finding can be made in the affirmative, as the project’s landscape design incorporates expanded landscaping along Hamilton Avenue, Waverley Street, and within the proposed public plaza, including new street trees, in-ground planters, and climbing vines along the garage façade to soften the building’s appearance and enhance the pedestrian environment. Plant selections emphasize regional, drought- tolerant species that are well integrated with the building’s architecture.
Finding 6: The project incorporates design principles that achieve sustainability in areas related to energy efficiency, water conservation, building materials, landscaping, and site planning.
The project is consistent with Finding #6 because:
This finding can be made in the affirmative, as the building is designed to accommodate future rooftop photovoltaic panels, promoting renewable energy use. Landscaping incorporates drought-tolerant, low- maintenance plantings to conserve water and provide ecological benefits. Site planning maximizes efficient land use by replacing surface parking with a compact, multi-level structure, reducing impervious
surfaces. High-quality, durable materials are selected to minimize maintenance and extend building lifespan. Together, these measures demonstrate a thoughtful approach to achieving sustainability.
SECTION 5. Development Standards Exception
Consistent with PAMC Section 18.28.060, the project is allowed to have an increased floor area ratio and building height, as well as reduced setbacks, to accommodate public parking garages within the Downtown District. Additional findings for approval of this exception are not required. The project is a parking garage in the Downtown District and therefore is eligible by right for this exception.
SECTION 4. Conditions of Approval.
PLANNING DIVISION
1. CONFORMANCE WITH PLANS. Construction and development shall conform to the approved plans entitled, "Downtown Parking Garage, Palo Alto, CA” uploaded to the Palo Alto Online Permitting Services Citizen Portal on May 27, 2026, as modified by these conditions of approval.
2. BUILDING PERMIT. Apply for a building permit and meet any and all conditions of the Planning, Transportation, and Building Departments.
3. BUILDING PERMIT PLAN SET. The approval letter including all Department conditions of approval for the project shall be printed on the plans submitted for building permit. Project plans submitted for Building permits shall incorporate the following changes:
a. On Sheet 2.1 revise proposed parking count to 265 stalls.
4. REQUIRED PUBLIC ART. Public Art is proposed as a part of this project. All required artwork shall be installed as approved by the Public Art Commission and verified by Public Art staff prior to release of the final Use and Occupancy permit.
5. MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PLAN. The Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) for the previously adopted EIR is incorporated by reference and all mitigation measures shall be implemented as described in said document. Prior to requesting issuance of any related demolition and/or construction permits, the applicant shall meet with the Project Planner to review and ensure compliance with the MMRP, subject to the satisfaction of the Director of Planning of Planning and Community Environment.
6. COLORS AND MATERIALS. The final colors must align with the colors and materials approved by the architectural review board.
7. SIGNAGE. This approval does not include any signage or modifications to the approved signs on site.
New signage or modifications to existing signage would be required to submit for a separate review and approval by the Planning Department.
8. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS. All modifications to the approved project shall be submitted for review and approval prior to construction. If during the Building Permit review and construction phase, the project is modified by the applicant, it is the responsibility of the applicant to contact the Planning Division/project planner directly to obtain approval of the project modification. It is the applicant’s
responsibility to highlight any proposed changes to the project and to bring it to the project planner’s attention.
9. PROJECT EXPIRATION. The project approval shall be valid for a period of two years from the original date of approval. Application for a one-year extension of this entitlement may be made prior to expiration.
10. FINAL INSPECTION. A Planning Division Final inspection will be required to determine substantial compliance with the approved plans prior to the scheduling of a Building Division final. Any revisions during the building process must be approved by Planning. Contact your Project Planner, Kristina Dobkevicius at [email protected] to schedule this inspection.
PCE BUILDING INSPECTION
11. On Sheet 1.7 verify an accessible route to the Public Sidewalks without going behind other vehicles.
PWD ENGINEERING
12. PUBLIC WORKS APPLICATIONS, FORMS, AND DOCUMENTS. Applicant shall be advised that most forms, applications, and informational documents related to Public Works Engineering conditions can be found at the following link:
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Public-Works/Engineering-Services/Forms-and- Permits
13. STREETWORK PERMIT. The applicant shall obtain a Streetwork Permit from the Department of Public Works for all public improvements.
14. GRADING AND EXCAVATION PERMIT. A Grading Permit is required per PAMC Chapter 16.28. The permit application and all applicable documents (see Section H of application) shall be submitted to Public Works Engineering. Add the following note: “THIS GRADING PERMIT WILL ONLY AUTHORIZE GENERAL GRADING AND INSTALLATION OF THE STORM DRAIN SYSTEM. OTHER BUILDING AND
UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS ARE SHOWN FOR REFERENCE INFORMATION ONLY AND ARE SUBJECT TO SEPARATE BUILDING PERMIT APPROVAL.”
15. CCTV OF STORM DRAIN SYSTEM. Post construction the applicant may be required to provide CCTV inspection of the City’s storm drain facilities to verify that any lines were not broken, cracked or damaged during construction. The video shall be high resolution and done by professional who is familiar with the process and meticulous. A CCTV inspection video is required for new storm drain connection (s) to verify proper connections were made into the City’s system and that no construction material was left behind. Videos of storm drain system may also be required where construction occurred less than 5-ft from the city’s storm drain system. Videos shall be provided from structure to structure, such as manhole to manhole. Contractor may want to conduct their own inspection in advance of construction to verify the existing pipe integrity. If existing damages are located, they shall be reported to Public Works inspectors prior to the start of construction. If not reported, the contractor may be responsible to restore the pipe segment as determined by Public Works prior to final.
16. ENCROACHMENT PERMIT. Prior to any work in the public right-of-way, the applicant shall obtain an
encroachment permit from the Public Works Department for any work that encroaches onto the City right-of-way.
17. LOGISTICS PLAN. A construction logistics plan shall be provided addressing all impacts to the public including, at a minimum: work hours, noticing of affected businesses, bus stop relocations, construction signage, dust control, noise control, storm water pollution prevention, job trailer, contractors’ parking, truck routes, staging, concrete pours, crane lifts, scaffolding, materials storage, pedestrian safety, and traffic control. All truck routes shall conform to the City of Palo Alto’s Trucks and Truck Route Ordinance, Chapter 10.48, and the route map. NOTE: Some items/tasks on the logistics plan may require an encroachment permit.
18. STORMWATER POLLUTION PREVENTION. All improvement plan sets shall include the “Pollution Prevention – It’s Part of the Plan” sheet.
19. C.3 THIRD-PARTY CERTIFICATION. Applicant shall provide certification from a qualified third-party reviewer that the proposed permanent storm water pollution prevention measures comply with the requirements of Provision C.3 and Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 16.11.
20. Submit the following:
a. Provide a stamped and signed C.3 data form (April 2024 version) from SCVURPPP. https://scvurppp.org/2024/09/19/provision-c-3-data-form-2024/ b. Final stamped and signed letter confirming which documents were reviewed and that the project complies with Provision C.3 and PAMC 16.11.
21. C.3 STORMWATER MAINTENANCE. A document shall be filed with the City that ensures the ongoing maintenance of onsite and offsite stormwater treatment facilities.
22. C.3 FINAL THIRD PARTY CERTIFICATION PRIOR TO OCCUPANCY. Within 45 days of the installation of the required storm water treatment measures and prior to the issuance of an occupancy permit for the building, the third-party reviewer shall submit to the City a certification verifying that all the permanent storm water pollution prevention measures were installed in accordance with the approved plans.
UTL ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING
23. Existing high voltage utility line must be rerouted along Waverley. Coordinate with utilities engineering.
24. 50' x 13' easement is required to fit all electric equipment.
25. There must be adequate space for 2 transformers and 1 switch. A transformer requires a 13'x13' pad with 3' clear space on 3 sides and 8' clear space in front. A switch requires a 12' x 10' pad with the same clearances.
FIRE
26. Mechanical smoke removal system is required if the Building Department determines mechanical ventilation will be needed for this project.
PCE TRANSPORTATION
27. TRAFFIC SIGNAL UPGRADES
a. The project shall include updated signal heads and associated signal framework to 12” signal heads, per City's current traffic signal standards.
b. The project shall install accessible pedestrian pushbuttons in conformance with current ADA and MUTCD standards. Where existing underground conduits are determined to be insufficient in capacity or condition to accommodate the required traffic signal and APS improvements, the project shall install new underground conduit, or replace existing conduits, as needed to provide adequate capacity.
28. ADA-COMPLIANT CURB RAMP. The project shall reconstruct and/or upgrade the pedestrian curb ramp at the northeast corner of the subject intersection to bring it into full compliance with current ADA standards and City curb ramp design standards.
29. TRANSPORTATION ANALYSIS AND TURN TEMPLATES. An updated transportation analysis reflecting all proposed changes to the project's traffic circulation and control features, e.g. the removal of the traffic signal at Gilman Street / Hamilton Ave, curb line changes, shall be provided included truck and bus turn templates consistent with the latest project plans.
30. VTA BUS STOP COORDINATION. The existing bus stop on Hamilton Ave will be impacted by construction activities associated with the project, the applicant/developer shall coordinate with the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) regarding any temporary impacts, including but not limited to temporary relocation, closure, signage, or passenger accommodations during construction. Prior to commencement of construction activities affecting the bus stop, the applicant shall coordinate with VTA through their review process. The contact information is [email protected].
PWD ZERO WASTE
31. The trash enclosure is not large enough to accommodate the service levels for 560 Waverley Street and parking garage waste.
32. Service level estimate for 560 Waverley Street includes (1) 2 CY compost bin 3x/wk, (1) 2 CY Recycle bin 4x/wk, (1) 32-gal landfill 1x/wk. Service level estimate for parking garage waste is (2) 96-gal landfill carts 2x/wk , (2) 96-gal recycle carts 2x/wk, (1) 96-gal compost cart 1x/wk.
33. Should be a total of 8 containers inside of the enclosure. Please show the estimated service containers inside of the enclosure. Identify containers by labelling them with the container size and waste stream type (compost, recycle, landfill). Show clearance between containers.
34. Sufficient clearance for container lids to open fully is required.
35. The containers within the refuse enclosure must be equally and easily accessible, have 36 inches (or 6 inches if they are carts) between each of the bins, and at least a 6’ wide aisle space.
36. Applicant is required to follow the “Refuse Enclosure Guidelines” and the “Enclosure Design Guide” when designing and building the refuse enclosure.
37. Trash enclosure doors look to be 90 degrees on plan set, not acceptable. Hinged doors are acceptable, but should open outward and at minimum of 120 degrees. Recommendations are for site to utilize either a roll up door or a sliding door. Would eliminate issues with the pedestrian walkway. If doing hinged doors, 180 degrees would be preferred with latch to secure door in place while doors are being opened.
38. Need project to clarify if there will be used cooking oil containers that must be housed from the 560 Waverley Street. If yes, must show on enclosure design how the grease bin will be separated from the refuse bins for safety concerns.
PUBLIC ART
39. Artist Amy Landesberg has developed a conceptual proposal for artwork to be integrated on the wall of the garage. The concept is scheduled to go to the Public Art Commission for approval April 16, 2026. Once approved, the artist will begin detailed design development in coordination with the design team. Funding for detailed design, fabrication, delivery and installation will be derived from the Art in Public Spaces CIP as outlined in Municipal Code 2.26.070.
URBAN FORESTRY
40. The proposed removal of protected trees and reasons for their removals in the most recent version of the updated Arborist report remains limited to inventory notes on their condition. The abovementioned reasons are not compliant with PAMC 8.10.050. If proposed tree removals are driven by condition alone and not a conflict with the proposed design, then risk assessments for each protected tree quantifying the risk of keeping them (i.e hazardous), must be provided by the consulting Arborist.
41. If proposed removals are driven by design conflicts with tree locations, then design alternatives which are financially infeasible must be outlined. Language regarding hazardous trees and financial feasibility with respect to design alternatives are outlined in code 8.10.050.
UTL WGW ENGINEERING
35 Conditions Forthcoming.
PWD WATERSHED PROTECTION
36 Update the Stormwater Treatment Summary Table with the city approved version. City approved table sent to applicant contact.
37 The trees are not part of stormwater treatment from my understanding so do not need to be highlighted. Is this correct?
38 Sword Fern is not an approved plant species in the SCVURPPP C.3 plants list in Appendix D. Please update to an approved plant.
SECTION 6. Term of Approval.
Major Architectural Review Approval. The project approval shall be valid for a period of two years from the original date of approval. In the event a building permit(s), if applicable, is not secured for the project within the time limit specified above, the approval shall expire and be of no further force or effect. Application for extension of this entitlement may be made prior to the one year expiration.
INTRODUCAND PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST:
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED:
_________________________ ____________________________ City Attorney City Manager
____________________________
Director of Planning and Development Services
PLANS AND DRAWINGS REFERENCED:
Those plans prepared by Watry Design, Inc., titled “C4_375 Hamilton Ave_PLANS.pdf” consisting of 43 pages, dated and submitted July 6, 2026.