San Carlos City Council
January 26, 2026

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1869
Lets get more patrol guards along these streets instead of them providing private security for large corporations or other merchants who divert law enforcement away from local surveillance.
00 Well we should not have built a bunch of new housing projects in the area. I wish we never did but now that we have the reality is those people need to park, will have over guests and will inevitably lead to an increase in demand for parking.

Thank your local city planners for thinking ahead!!!!
02 The library could certainly focus on maintaining access to the building for all respectful individuals with a genuine interest in pursuing knowledge. 00 How many children are riding down this street? What times particularly? Are they aware of best practices while riding a bicycle along busy streets? Have they tried riding such bicycles in San Francisco during a weekday? THAT IS BUSY. Until then, parental guidance, proper safety gear and a keen sense of awareness will do better than any renovations.
02 N
O
01 Have you been living under a rock? We have plenty of parking around laurel and do not need any more. THANK YOU VERY MUCH.
02 No, do not suggest we waste taxpayer funds. Courteous vehicles will stop for pedestrians using appropriate hand signs or pedestrians being mindful of vehicles.

Why impede vehicles from the natural flow of traffic? I guarantee any respectful individual will stop for a wheelchair/disabled pedestrian attempting to cross. 01 Do not disturb the alleyways of San Carlos. That is Final. 0 1 Where are people from outside the city supposed to park their vehicles? You wish to drive visitation which will come at the cost of local benefit. Shiki Bistro is "Far from the street"?? Really it is directly off El Camino or Laurel, two extremely popular streets.
00 What is the exact percentage of "DISABILITY PARKING" comparative to "NON‐ DISABLED PARKING" for the city of San Carlos, specifically pertaining to Laurel. For instance lets say we have 300 spots but perhaps 75 are allocated for handicapped patrons . Do we have a specific number and are these spaces evenly distributed/able to accommodate current traffic trends? 00 Why? Secondly what does an "ECR SAFE CROSSING" entail specifically? 0 1 Arroyo is arguably close to industrial. You feel like you are in unconquered territory? There are lights of El Camino for God's sake... 11 No we do not want a high rise complex for living or parking. What is wrong with you people? You come here knowing nothing about our way of life and then you expect us to sit by idly as you dictate to us what life aught to be? 01 No‐man's land sounds pretty intense. Could you elaborate? I have grown up in such said area and I find your point disturbing and non‐nonsensical. 01 OH NO!!! YOU HAVE TO CROSS THE STREET??? WHATEVER WILL WE CIVILIANS DO? Especially walking across the gentrifying town‐homes built along El Camino Real. It really is a struggle having to press the button to cross across two streets instead of one. What ever will we do? The world itself may stop turning... 01 WHAT EXACTLY DOES ECR SAFE CROSSING ENTAIL? 0 1

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1870
I have grown up in the Bay Area using bus stops that were not even clearly marked or define. In fact I enjoyed those stations much more than many other metropolitan areas with multiple signs and clear emphasis. I have walked across important roads with no sidewalk.

You seek to engulf these cities in debts they have never had to participate in based off of your shortsightedness and as an outsider.
00 OH NO!!! A BICYCLE RIDER NEEDS ASSISTANCE!!! QUICK LETS DEPLOY ALL RESOURCES AT ONCE TO RECTIFY THIS AT ONCE!!!! 02
WHAT IS ECR???? WEAK POINT 0 0
OH NO! YOU MEAN YOU HAVE TO VENTURE OUTSIDE THE LINES? COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES!!?!?! THIS IS UNHEARD OF AND EXTREMELY UNSETTLING!!! Ridiculous, pathetic, infantile.
03 No we actually would not like to see additional LIGHT POLLUTION at night. You know how you bots use POLLUTION as a net‐negative. IT IS NOT NECESSARY. 00 No we do not need intelligent cameras like that of CHINA with SOCIAL CREDIT RATINGS. This is the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA in case you forgot. We do not believe in communism unlike China. IF you have to wait, which will not be for long, heaven forbid you have to wait less than 60 seconds to turn or progress on your path. Stupid non‐nonsensical logic applied once again you bot‐spammers. 00 No WE shouldn't. Cameras do nothing to prevent car theft or other crime, therefore they should not adopt Chinese‐style surveillance to spy on innocent civilians. People EXISTING adds to pollution, does that mean certain people should no longer exist? The individual emissions contribute nothing comparative to large corporations exporting manufacturing offshore and then importing such goods to our local to provide them for unwitting consumers. What exactly does SMART entail? Social Credit Rating?
00 There is a bridge which enables this already between Oracle/Mercedez Dealership and Western San Carlos/Belmont. 02
False, the unnecessary backup on El Camino Real comes from too many drivers seeking "refuge" on the streets located within Belmont/San Carlos. Simply speaking, search elsewhere if you want to turn.
01 Why do we need more living? Who exactly is "living" here that previously wasn't? Refuge? really??? A place safe from danger or distress? Life is constantly full of danger and distress so this is a moot point which does not require any modification of any kind. IF individuals feel unsafe they should seek alternative routes like the rest of us.
01 1. If we go back to parking on Laurel, please, please don't put in metered parking.

Let's keep our downtown friendly. I don't shop in Redwood City for just that reason‐‐why would I pay them to shop in their shopping district; they should be paying me!

2. I think there is an untapped market for busy shops/dining on our side streets of Laurel.
21 I visit Laurel far more often because I don't have to deal with the crappy drivers we were plagued with before.  Compared to other nearby towns, parking is a breeze here.
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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1871
Thank you for the opportunity to share thoughts, would love to see more green/plants, more seating/walking space, where one can carry a book to read and just hang out, not necessarily to a specific Cafe or restaurant, but a common space/courtyard with art displays, may be groups can sign up and reserve their day to display their art forms dance or paintings. Schools can reserve a day to demo their work. An inviting space where we can observe special days, Teacher's day/Quotes/paintings/Learnings
30 I love the plants along Walnut, but they could do w/ some pruning or different plant selection near the exit from Wheeler parking. Really difficult to see cars coming from the left as you leave the parking lot
10 From a traffic / backing up the light POV, I'd like to keep right on red legal here 0 1 It’s great that you can walk. I can’t. Nor can many others with ease. A pedestrian‐ only downtown would have many benefits, but I would like to be able to participate in the life of my community. EVs might not be the solution but thought has to be given to access for all.
10 Bike parking combined with art to beautify the space and signify the start of the pedestrian centered street closure. 41
If possible it would be nice to have a few more disability parking spaces on Laurel.

I’m sure there is a ratio of needed spaces but a few extra would be appreciated. It is very difficult to take someone who can’t walk to dinner on Laurel due to parking. 22 ECR should have a bus rapid transit lane and a protected bike lane. This would make the bus have the ability to come at closer intervals (think every 10 minutes!) making the bus a viable option that could significantly reduce traffic.

ECR would be an amazing bikeway if protected. Think of the gorgeous bike lanes in Seattle (with beautiful planters separating the bike lane from cars). Seattle and European cities did it on streets that had even higher traffic volumes to great result!
20 need parking on Laurel, not eating in the street! 2 9 All of Laurel St. must be opened for parking and traffic again.  My bank parking lot is full alot, with no place for me to park because people park there and walk to Laurel St.   It also makes it difficult to shop on Laurel St.  I never even want to go down there anymore, and friends feel the same way.
36 Can the parking lot be brighter? 0 0
Pedestrian bridges would be fantastic.  If not, please set the white line where cars are supposed to stop at least 5 feet from the crosswalk.  Most cars stop, after driving past the crosswalk lines.  It's not fun trying to guess as a pedestrian whether that speeding car sees you or not.  I think traffic lights now give pedestrians a head start on crossing the street, which is a great thing but let's go further for safety.
01 Consider parking only on one side of Walnut. I’ve seen too many mirrors broke off parked cars as well as standoffs on who gives the right of way. 11 Make this a red zone. You have two turning lanes, where the inside lane is blocked by parked cars.  This causes an unnecessary back up on el Camino. 31 Consider parking only on one side of Walnut. I’ve seen too many mirrors broke off parked cars as well as standoffs on who gives the right of way. 03 9.k
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Make this a way one way in.  Very dangerous and blind exit for drivers and pedestrians. 00
build a sense of connect and safe passage between Laurel Street and the East side 2 0 Similar to comment at Brittan & Laurel, no way to trigger the light for a cyclist except to wait for car or get off bike and push pedestrian beg button. Need to use the proper loop technology.
50 To get to Laurel from El Camino, turn onto Holly going west, then turn left onto Laurel. 00
Cherry Street needs to only have parking on one side, Two cars can barely pass, and it's not safe when it's such a thoroughfare from the Elms, Library, and Central Middle School.
21 Sounds good to me. 0 0
The sidewalk between Brittan and Arroyo is a no‐man's land. It feels like the city only starts at Arroyo. Why is that ? 21
You can't walk from Brittan to Arroyo on the track side. 2 0 There isn't a proper sidewalk between Howard and Brittan, on the track side. It's just a vacant lot. 21
We should work on improving the timing of these traffic lights with intelligent cameras. Too often, there's nobody coming from the opposite lane or to use the crosswalk, yet we have to wait to turn. The time waiting idle at a red light also adds to the pollution. A comprehensible smart traffic light project for El Camino would be a great improvement for everybody: cars, buses, bicycles, and pedestrians.
30 As someone else who uses this crossing frequently: if we can't get a protected crossing (which would be *amazing* and really activate the Caltrain plaza), then the light timings could be made worlds better for pedestrians. They are about as bad as possible right now.
20 What would you suggest people do to get into Laurel St, coming from El Camino ? They would have to make a U‐Turn at San Carlos & Walnut, which is probably not safer.
10 There aren't enough chargers in the city. Wheeler Plaza seems like a good place to expand 20
Agreed, we desperately need *physically separated* bike lanes especially on San Carlos Ave. If tiny European towns can figure out how to build these everywhere, affordably, San Carlos can figure it out. As e‐bikes become more common, our hills also become less of an obstacle to getting around town without a car. 50 Laurel seems perfect for this. 2 0
Does BofA really need such a large dedicated lot. It's mostly empty. Could the city purchase some of the lot for public parking? 31
Please improve the availability of short‐term (15 min) public parking in the alleys so that quick visits to businesses is easy. At the moment, there are hardly any spaces and trucks after park and block off access to large sections. 40 We're talking about a couple of blocks here, it's not like the walk will be that long, and more walking is the whole point of the exercise.  I don't want to pay for courtesy transportation of a few blocks ‐ it's a small downtown area 00 9.k
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The Town should be for people not for cars.  Business will adapt.  Plus who wants to breath in car fumes when you're walking or eating? 70 Orange plastic barriers on San Carlos and Laurel cheapen the nice look of these areas.

Consider barrels, options used by other nice cities or last resort paint them neutral colors. Thank you, Linda Kuhli. 650‐207‐3561
40 I think the orange plastic barriers in front of restaurant outdoor areas along San Carlos Ave west of El Camino, and on Laurel St look cheap and  unsightly.   Look to our upscale neighbors to the south, like Palo Alto for examples of what to use for a much nicer look ‐ like barrels ‐ or or at the least cover or paint them.  Thank you, Linda Kuhli
[email protected]
30 Also very unsafe at the other end of this same block at Elm and Olive. Kids walk along School St and then dart across here. It’s very dangerous! 10 Absolutely! I see kids running across the intersection after school headed in the direction of downtown and it is so unsafe! 00
Riding a bike down San Carlos Avenue is terrifying especially for kids. Too many speeding cars. Can we create some safer bike routes to downtown? 12 1 An underpass is what European countries do that this situation. Also would help create flow to what was the cafe there 00
Exactly. Except Laurel is too narrow I think. We would have to consider making it a one way street to expand the sidewalks and add greenery. With parallel parking on one side and a a bike lane on the other ?
00 Consider Burlingame downtown with less parking and more storefronts/areas for pedestrians 75
This space is an accident waiting to happen. A mirror is needed ASAP 0 0 I agree that a pedestrian bridge is probably not feasible and that the best solution to this issue is timing the traffic light to pedestrians and buses rather than cars. In terms of cars not being safe, maybe some traffic calming measures such as on the outer lanes of El Camino, which are currently unimpeded, which allows cars to speed through there way too fast.
10 Closing the main 3 blocks of downtown to vehicles and filling out the street with seating, green spaces/ trees, and space for restaurants. A unique feature that no local downtown has, that could enhance the atmosphere making it a real meeting place and local draw. There is plenty of other parking elsewhere these spots on laurel are too valuable to the community as a whole.
30 Mirrors for cars driving out into San Carlos ave.  Better signage.  Cars frequently roll onto the sidewalk and appear pretty dangerous. 80
I don’t think my peg on the map worked. It was suppose to be on Laurel.

I strongly believe that there are only 2 options for Laurel ‐ open it to all traffic or provide additional, convenient and easily accessed parking.

I also believe strongly that all the “parklettes” for restaurants should be removed. I do not know the financial details of transactions related to them but the additional space to multiple businesses seems unfair to there whose parking had been removed and store area not inc
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I would love for Laurel to be redeveloped as a pedestrian plaza but acknowledge that parking and quick access to the buildings may be needed by some residents — seems like upgrading this alley to accommodate more parking or access would be a natural fit since it is underutilized and poorly signed at the moment, 72 Agreed. Also add signage to encourage turning right to park in the Sam Trans structure. Visitors don't know that there's free public parking there. 00 Repair and open these stairs to improve pedestrian access to the library. 11 0 Minor crossings like this one could use continuous sidewalks. These not only make it easier for wheelchair users to cross the street, but also force vehicles to slow down, improving safety for everyone.
10 2
This intersection is extremely hostile to pedestrians. There are several improvements to make this safer:

1. Prohibit right turns on red.

2. Put the traffic signal on the near side of the intersection, to prevent drivers from encroaching on crosswalks.

3. Add refuge islands and use independent walk signals for the lanes in each direction.

4. Use sensors to make the signal pattern adapt to both vehicle and non‐vehicle traffic.

More details:
https://youtu.be/_ByEBjf9ktY
70 I LOVE wheeler plaza parking, and park there multiple times/week, but the top floor has become a frequent bathroom.  It smells like pee pretty badly up there.

Any chance of regular washing (AND public restrooms downtown!)? 40 This bus stop is completely inaccessible:  no sidewalk, no shelter, just gravel. I've seen elders and others with limited mobility struggling to get where they need to be before the bus drives past them.
41 would love to see 3‐5 blocks of Laurel street permanently closed and made pedestrian friendly.  Many CA cities have made pedestrian malls (Santa Monica as an example)
20 8
Suggest no left turn from San Carlos onto Laurel (both directions).  At times of any traffic, the turn is impossible due to oncoming cars, yet people still sit there trying, blocking the entire lane until the light turns red.
76 This bike rack set up is absurd taking two parking spaces. So many other options 1 0 Absolutely! We need decent access via car to these businesses. 2 0 Yes, currently this alleyway has become a nightmare for the traffic that would normally be using and parking on Laurel. We need to get back to rational access on Laurel. End the Laurel closure now.
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I would like to see the street revert to pre‐pandemic parking and car access. I note that businesses that are heavily trafficked‐ UPS store, BowWow, etc ‐ are nightmares of parking mess in the alley behind. Showing there is demand for parking and car access it is just currently being pushed into space it should not be.

I’m also not a fan of the idea of a massive giveaway of public space to restaurants.

These businesses should need to pay for their space like all the other businesses. 937
I agree there needs to be a three way stop sign here. 2 0 South of Laurel is very dark at night. Would like to see more street lightning and public parkings 20 1
I understand there are discussions with many ideas about keeping the two blocks of Laurel closed indefinitely. I personally like the way it is now, but can understand the issues with parking and traffic.  In Palm Desert, CA along their main business street, EV Courtesy Carts have offered free rides to shoppers. I see  a similar program on Laurel St. In San Carlos. These Carts can transport shoppers from parking areas to shops from Holly St. to Eaton establishing a business street connection.
57 The customers would likely favor the current situation. But what about the merchants ? Most or all other cities have restaurant expansions and keep the street OPEN! Why can’t San Carlos?
If the expansions are too big, the make the smaller or take them out. 35 This intersection is dangerous to traverse on bike or foot due to cars parked on Olive making it difficult for people to see what's coming. Please consider safety improvements to make it easier to walk or bike downtown here. 81 The intersection at Laurel & Brittan does not pick up when a bike is waiting ‐ the light never changes unless a car comes up behind to trigger the lights 10 1 Pedestrians and cars are forced to share this space with no separation, and it's unpleasant to walk here 80
Please consider allowing bicycles to traverse this block at low speed rather than forcing them to walk. People on bikes also appreciate having a space that is protected from cars.
76 Can you please add some carshare spots to this structure? This would be a great amenity to help the public parking areas to serve the people who live within walking distance, instead of just the people who drive downtown to visit. 50 The bike racks turn two parking spots into six. 1 1
Please bolt down the bike racks ‐ I don't trust a rack that isn't properly secured! 5 0 +1 on this request. Also ‐ I'd appreciate if pedestrians were better protected when crossing by the traffic signals ‐ quite frequently I see conflicts between people crossing and people turning right from ECR onto Holly on the Eastern corner. 50 Better monitor the public parking in the alleyways.  Many employees are parking there at peak times.  Would be great to add some 15min food pick up spots. 90 9.k
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One way street loop! ties in with alleys to the west. Super cool idea. 2 0 Bike lanes should relate to what is happening with ECR bike lane project in Redwood City. See if we can do it better :) 40
Totally build a parking structure here with new development. 5 1 parking structure 7 0
Parking structure 5 1
maybe bypass all of Laurel st with the alleys. 2 0
maybe bypass all of Laurel st with the alleys. 2 1
Does this become the bypass road for Laurel to maintain the "street plaza"? 2 0 Create ECR safe crossing 4 1
Create ECR safe crossing 4 1
Create ECR safe crossing 7 0
Create ECR safe crossing 3 0
Create ECR safe crossing 3 1
Intersection should be improved to make access to parking structure better. 5 0 Love Wheeler plaza parking. 4 0
Love the UPS store (AKA, Amazon return center). But, the parking back here is pretty terrible. 30
Any overpass would be required to be wheelchair accessible, The amount of space to build compliant ramps would be near impossible.  Look at the  length of the ramps on the new pedestrian overcrossing on 101 in Palo Alto.  It also makes it such a long walk that nobody would use it.
20 More mid‐street cross walks like this throughout the downtown district. 1 0 Make the intersection safer for pedestrians.

If we hope to add more living & work options on El Camino we need to make the paths that connect this space to downtown for people‐friendly.

Can we add a "pedestrian refuge," mid‐street to add more safety to the crossing? 13 0
I nearly never walk between El Camino and Laurel.  The sidewalks on El Camino are not friendly on such a busy street, and also the streets connecting them are not friendly either.  It’s like walking on the street next to the Home Depot parking lot:
it’s not friendly, inviting, interesting and could feel safer. 50 I love the more limited car access.  The outdoor dining is great and certainly Town has made it look so nice too.

I am not sure what a solution is for non‐restaurants.  Thoughts on this: add more housing to the surrounding area so that there are more potential customers who are less interested in cars.  Make it easier to walk to this location from other more car‐friendly parking areas.  Encourage restaurants in certain locations and not in others. Allow cars in non‐restaurant areas?
32 I am not sure where a bridge or underpass would be appropriate here but further improvements to link downtown to this space would be fantastic.  I cross this space regularly and the improvements to the El Camino crossing are still needed, despite improvements that have already been made
00 I'd like to close Laurel Street between San Carlos avenue and Cherry.  It would make more of a downtown feel with two closed streets instead of one. 20 4

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Though perhaps out of the scope of Laurel Street itself, I wish the area was more easily accessible by bikes. The painted bicycle gutters on San Carlos Avenue do not provide much safety for people accessing Laurel street from the western portion of the city.
17 1
I find Laurel street much more comfortable and attractive with reduced access for cars, and I hope it stays this way.
22 5
I would love to see a beautiful *shaded* pedestrian bridge—or a pedestrian underpass—to the train station. (Perhaps it leads to a coffee shop in the depot!) The street crossing at El Camino and San Carlos Ave is not safe; cars too often encroach on the crosswalk or hit the gas through red lights. Also, when you're on foot, it's frustrating to reach the intersection at the very beginning of a traffic light cycle and have to watch your somewhat‐infrequent train leave without you... 12 1
Again, all commentary seems so concerned with the restaurants being able to have their businesses function. Nothing about any of the other businesses on Laurel.
10 After the farmers market on Sunday, reopen the street for regular traffic. It makes no sense to keep it closed all day. 00
How are the parklets fair to ALL businesses? UPS store is moving to SC ave because it is been impossible for them.

Footwear etc. is struggling as a result. They cannot rent Chef Shop or the Laundromat next to Town because no one wants to go into business with a closed street.

The Panini business had a very difficult time finding someone to take over their location (now Tea Hut).
53 Move the bike rack(s) so they don't waste 2 spaces of the already limited parking spots.
12 4
Hard to walk the sidewalks with restaurant tables crowding the space. Give them more parklet space.
14 4
The parklets are great (please keep them!!), but move restaurant tables off sidewalks. Most sidewalks are single file walking, so not sure how anyone in a wheelchair is able to use the sidewalks.
16 6
Multi‐story parking with EV charging. Provide multiple parking structures off Laurel Street, to reduce or eliminate traffic on Laurel Street. 13 5

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1878
Allowed Uses
Comment Up Votes Down Votes
AlcaTTraz (The ATT Building) is likely the worst looking building in all of DT San Carlos. It would be a stretch, but one could reimagine a wonder youth/teen center here instead.
00 This site has been boarded up for a long time ‐ its not a great look coming into downtown. 10
agreed! 0 0
100% on this.  This "back area" of Laurel could be so much better utilized.  That use doesn't need to be just as a parking lot, but as more interesting crevices for businesses and even small homes/apartments 00 I am less concerned about banks wanting to be downtown than how banks use the space of downtown.  This bank building (and parking lot) in particular consumes an incredible amount of space which could be so much better used in this location and in downtown in general.  It's like a mini‐fortress that everyone scurries past, and few use.  There are no windows, & no real life to it.  Downtown should be vibrant & this takes up too much space & provides no vibrance. 00 With some of the best weather in the country, we absolutely need outdoor dining, with or without the pandemic! 00
Exactly. Existing businesses seem to be catering to a very limited clientele (pizza, wedding dresses, pool supplies...) so leveraging height would allow for more options to choose from.
00 We should consider if arbitrary resistance to taller buildings is serving the city. Does this make sense to limit how tall buildings are in the area? Places like City Center Bishop Ranch in San Ramon has an expansive 2 story shopping center with ample parking, and has attracted stores like Anthropologie, Equinox, Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma. 00 Agreed. Bookshops and cafes really add to the culture of a city, and it currently feels San Carlos is lacking in these areas. The Reading Bug is a bookshop for kids and there are no cafes that are open after 3 pm in the vicinity.
10 Outdoor dining has been such a great development of Laurel Street. It has made the city feel so much more alive, interesting and vibrant.

Please keep the parklets and pedestrian street on Laurel. 41 Development on the empty lots next to the train station would be a nice addition allowing smaller shops to set up ? Strengthening the draw of the downtown district and a whole.
00 9.k
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San Carlos losing the Reading Bug, a beloved community space, speaks to the larger issue of the City needing to step in to prevent landlords from raising rents to exorbitant prices...just to drive out well‐loved local stores to tear down the building and build multi‐story condos. (As is the case here.) First off, protect local businesses but also keep height limits at 1 story (except for existing buildings) to prevent this from happening in the future.
60 This is just not true. "Shopping in stores" would be less inviting because of the added hassle of not being able to park anywhere near the stores.

If I'm running into a bank or the post office for a 5‐minute errand why should I have to search for parking off street for 10 minutes and walk 5 more minutes?
10 Let's not turn Laurel Street into a giant shadow with tall buildings so close to the charming downtown. Keep the 1‐2 story heights of current buildings.
01 Yes to more attractive barriers! 0 0
Great idea and it's true that no one ever walks between Laurel and El Camino. Even closing it to cars and adding some grass, planter boxes, and a few benches to sit and enjoy a meal outside would be great. Don't need to necessarily build more with mixed‐use.
10 Agreed we don’t need so many banks on the Main Street. Versus more restaurants or retail stores
20 Taxpayers funded this, they expect to be able to access this facility on a weekend. 00
Why exactly should a "Small Town" build up "considerably" perhaps we enjoy our underdeveloped land that enables the vibration that makes the town what it is... How does it provide a direct benefit exactly? 00 The roads were designed for vehicles. Sidewalks were designed for pedestrians. Bicycles come second to all of this as to not interfere with either.
01 What does that even entail? What exactly does more visibility look like exactly? 00
Let’s put people over cars. Would you rather be in a parking lot, or dining al fresco? 00
I strongly support the street closure. It is a big draw to downtown and makes it a destination. It’s enjoyable to see the community out together and to see patrons enjoying our local restaurants. It’s lovely and feels safer. And for those fiscally concerned folks, more people eating and shopping in San Carlos means greater tax revenue, wealth, and return for the community.
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ECR is the perfect place for higher density. San Carlos needs to meet state mandated housing requirements. Along a transit corridor with access to services and groceries is an ideal location for more multistory/multiunit housing. These should be mixed use with stores/restaurants on the first floor if possible. I’m sure many in the community would prefer density here rather than in the hills where things are inaccessible and traffic and pollution would build, or among the single family homes.
00 Perhaps not the full length of Laurel Street.   Perhaps from San Carlos Avenue to Arroyo Avenue.  The full length might impact parking for the residents of the neighboring streets.  We do have to think about parking for people with accessibility concerns also.
10 I love the street closure! Could we do brick or pavers to make it even more welcoming and attractive? 02
If a real estate office can occupy space on Laurel then so should a child care center.
00 LESS density along El Camino and Laurel. The thought of five or six story buildings in the downtown area is just insane.
14 If the street is to be kept closed, then the business owners should pay for the space they are using. If a restaurant is allowed to double their space because they can be in the street, then they should be paying a sizable amount to the city for that space.

And, it shouldn't be passed onto the building owners.
60 Multi‐story housing should be encouraged all along  ECR where ever there is an alley behind to provide access to on‐site parking for residents and Laurel St. retail similar to Wheeler Plaza.  The first floor on ECR may be retail, but given that physical retail is rapidly fading as a viable use, retail may not be the best use.  If retail  was removed, parking could be eliminated along ECR and protected  bike lanes and wider sidewalks could be added  while keeping ECR two traffic lanes each way.
41 The street closure area on Laurel shall be expanded from San Carlos Avenue to Arroyo. There is sufficient parking behind BofA, and in the parking garage. having car traffic on Laurel makes this a stressful area that is not inviting to linger, sit at restaurants or go shopping. Shopping in the Laurel street stores would be much more inviting if there weren't cars driving and parked everywhere.
83 Laurel Street should only be for pedestrians. No vehicle travel shall be allowed. 55
Tagging on, it's crazy that 24 Hour Fitness on Industrial (!) is the only "regular gym" in town.
00 Certain restaurants should not be allowed to sprawl left and right simply because they are flanked by non‐restaurants. It's unsightly and unfair to restaurants that do not have that luxury.
10 I live around the dog park.  People allow their dogs to bark and it's nice to have a break from this.  If the dogs weren't so loud I'd be in agreement
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Fully agree with this 0 0
Why do we keep letting banks take up so much space downtown? We need a bakery, nice shops etc in the central part of Laurel ‐ not large banks that hardly anyone goes into.
80 I agree ‐ there are a lot of great restaurants on the street and they should be permitted to retain nice parklets like those on Laurel. It will help make the entry to the city more appealing.
00 Too much valuable space in central downtown is occupied by banks. We need more upscale retail options, similar to Palo Alto and Burlingame, to attract people to shop and dine locally.
84 I would love one or two more fitness options downtown in addition to the Yoga Center. Maybe pilates or an Orange Theory type place. 40 I think there is a war going on here that doesn't need to happen. I agree that Laurel street should remain closed, and believe that will have positive impacts to all businesses. Addressing some good points I saw, you could definitely charge restaurants for use of outdoor space, possible even charging them more rent than small businesses.

Downtown has slowly been shifting toward fancy restaurants and this could combat that.
00 It would be nice to have a coffee (and maybe book) shop that is open late. It would be a nice gathering spot and place for students to study, people to meet, etc. Currently the only places open at night are bars and nicer restaurants.
12 0
I want Laurel street reopened and object to the giveaway of public space to private restaurant businesses, to the exclusion of other businesses. Business diversity is a good thing.
42 If we are going to give away public space to private businesses, we need to dramatically raise the construction and design standards to better meet safety code and attractiveness standards. Get rid of ugly orange barriers. Enforce better architectural standards on the outdoor seating structures.
25 0
Right now this block is very lightly utilized. Mostly a parking lot and old cottage size buildings. Seems like this could be built up considerably.

Which would help to extend the downtown area and benefit the small businesses on these blocks .
17 3
Many small towns (and large) all over Europe and the East Coast of the US have these in place.  Having something fun/ useful off the beaten path would add a lot to our downtown.
10 Bring more visibility to the San Carlos Museum! 13 0 Creating a pedestrian only space is critical to not only attract people but to retain them so that they might linger longer adding to the vitality goal of the Downtown Plan. Sidewalk sitting for the restaurants though should have specific standards to maintain a  quality look and feel. With the roads closed to traffic, there would be plenty of room for people to walk by. SC has an opportunity to bring a unique feel to our downtown and great place to be ‐ a pedestrian only space will bring such! 42 9.k
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More density! More height along El Camino ‐ make the most of adjacency to Caltrain. 90
+1 for more housing. +1 for adding it in a way that enhances connections from ECR to Laurel. 10
I could imagine this section being 'Bonus Downtown' ‐ more shops, more restaurants at ground floor and a couple of floors of housing or office above. Like the alley ways in Melbourne, Australia where you slip down a narrow alley, beautifully painted, and find a secret strip of shops and restaurants.
10 0
Does this really have to be a bank? There has to be a higher and better use for this space. It kills this corner.
31 In addition to the other comment already made about making these Alleyways more interesting, mixed‐use, and adding a legitimate connection between Laurel and El Camino. (Image concept attached) 70 This is a "mobility/parking" comment too.  Provide a safe, and interesting path between El Camino and Laurel here.  That could be encouraging the addition of homes &/or mixed‐use where people who live here can have an off‐the‐main‐drag alleyway; but it could also be simply making this an interesting and safe path between El Camino businesses and Laurel businesses.  Otherwise no one EVER walks between the Laurel & El Camino businesses.
70 Could adding apartments and uses beyond parking to this space actually connect El Camino to Laurel while adding needed housing?   I suspect new use cases, like homes or other business types, could make this area more dynamic.
42 I don't mind the restaurants having an outdoor space, just leave the sidewalk open for people to walk by. 10
I unfortunately disagree with keeping the street closed and allowing only the restaurants to continue to be 2x larger than they have ever been. The restaurants pay rent for to their buildings and the space within a building. Prior to covid, it was required by the city to have a paid permit for any sidewalk seating.
54 Child care should be an allowable use downtown 7 0
Keep the on‐street dining on San Carlos Avenue, and make it safer with attractive, permanent barriers/planter boxes. These restaurants are highly visible and attract people to eat & shop in downtown San Carlos.
23 3
I also fully support keeping the street closed to cars. The parklets and closed street have been a delight. 46
Even if it is a limited time (e.g. 10 am ‐ 2 pm) as a starting point 1 1 Open the dog park on Sundays. 23 3

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This is an extremely dangerous intersection. Cars speed down the hill on Alameda and crossing the intersection is dangerous. The cross walk has no lights which make walking/biking across risky. Children in the area use this street to cross as they walk to/from school. Can we put in a stop sign or at least a cross walk with lights (like on Brittan and Woodland) to improve safety? As it stands I have my teenage driver avoid the intersection and drive all the way to Eaton from our house for safety.
10 I fully support keeping the street closed to cars and allowing for restaurants to expand dining to outside. When done well, the restaurants have decorated/enclosed the area to make it feel welcoming and it allows for additional dining space and less crowded areas.
46 7

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Gathering Spaces
Comment Up Votes Down Votes
Save the bug! The reading bug has been a gathering place for children for so many years. The bookstore is a key part of what makes San Carlos special to everyone but especially families!
00 Convert this to a parklet and Pedestrian entrance to Laurel, from the public parking here. 00
Agreed 100%! I'd strongly encourage a modular pump track or some kind of half pipe or roller skating space for fun and movement and low risk challenge all at the same time. See pump track options here:
https://www.parkitect.ch/blog/what‐is‐a‐pumptrack
00 Agree, and revisioning Laurel with public seating and green spaces would be a great way to make this a permanent solution. 00
Adding another outdoor gathering space like this one somewhere else in the downtown area would be a big plus! 00
I like the idea of  incorporating a slow speed bicycle path through downtown. Not something someone can race down, but having bikes go through at slow speeds adds a charm and vibrancy/energy that  both the bicyclists and the people walking on the street can appreciate. There's an invigorating aspect to promoting low‐speed, pedestrian friendly bicycling.

Essentially bike paths that are designed to be 'traffic calmed'... 00 Yes please!  With all the newer condo developments downtown we need more human park and garden space.
10 Would like to see this activated as Public Gathering, Music, Green space, Tables Chairs Umbrellas 00
The folks @ the reading bug have expressed that they have sought support from the city and have had minimal assistance to ensure they can find a way to stay downtown.  I have yet to meet anyone who doesn't want them to stay.  How can the city help both this particular business not only stay but thrive, and in doing so help other similar businesses? 20 This sounds a bit extreme but the Reading Bug
Is one of the reasons I wanted to move to San Carlos. It’s one of the few independent bookstores on the peninsula and a community hub for all. we must protect it!
10 Agreed, there are not enough lower‐cost food options for teenagers. You used to be able to get a slice of pizza at Nino’s but most restaurants on Laurel are too pricey for teenagers.
00 Yes, I agree! And if every person on Nextdoor who complains about "what's happening to today's kids" and wishes there was more for them to do at night other than messing around read this...you'd have about 1,000 more likes...
30 Build a community center with meeting spaces for community groups, childcare; an event space for performances; a fitness center with a pool 82

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Cafes exist off of a short walk to Laurel. Think of it as a brief exercise and a trip to support a local business within the business zoning of the local.

Two Birds, One Stone.
10 People gather and sit here now? As of when exactly?
Who is visiting San Carlos in the evening that is not here typically during the weekday or weekend?
Do you not receive cellular service?
Are you unaware of programs that will provide heavily discounted/free cellular service to you if you are unable to afford it? You can rent a portable modem/router from the library and take with you so that you do not penetrate our San Mateo County Library System, FYI. 00 Tea garden... where are those predominately located. How many Tea Gardens are present in the USA as of 2000 compared to 2020. How much space would be required and who would foot the bill. Is this really a good repurposing of precious finite land? What tea leaves would we grow and who would harvest them? Where would the funds generate and go towards? Who would upkeep the land?
01 How about of Alameda de las Pulgas where the city will soon allow the removal of tons of land and over 100 live oak trees which have taken nearly a century each to reach full maturity? Plus no cell tower in the middle of it like in Burton park.
00 Lets not be like Redwood City and say that we did... 0 0 You purchased land immediately off of El Camino Real. If you were a local you would immediately realize that El Camino is never really quiet. You deserve exactly what you paid for — Long term instability due to inflation.

San Carlos and other cities in the peninsula are comprised from the city directly within the perimeter not the outskirts nor epicenter. Move elsewhere if you seek additional "Attention". Why would we want to hang out on your street when it is nothing but apartments?
01 We need more outdoors spaces for San Carlos' teenagers to hang out! Instead of punishing them for being outside late at night, we should create spaces for them in our downtown so they feel represented and have a place to hang out, but without disturbing nearby residents. Expand parks and leave them open until later, add more affordable restaurants that are open later, and close this entire stretch of Laurel off to cars to increase foot traffic
50 This intersection/corner is particularly cumbersome with the bank parking lot/driveway. Could be utilized as a creative gathering spot with the driveway closed and repurposed. A gathering space in photo. 10 I agree it is important to keep a bookstore in the community, ideally one that is for adults and children! 10

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Absolutely! Folks who grew up in San Carlos remember a movie theatre in town. It would be wonderful to have bowling or a theatre or more family friendly activities
20 I’d love more benches and/or creative spaces for people to sit and eat or just hang out downtown. 13 0
the pedestrian space is GREAT and let's make it more beautiful... keep a walking and biking path down the middle that can be used by emergency vehicles as needed, but make it more Park‐like on either side and plant some trees
60 I agree. We need businesses that are great resources. We need to help the Reading Bug.
10 I agree 100%. We all benefit from such gathering places. 1 0 Good points! A plaza needs to be an open, public space. 0 0 Great idea. 0 0
I like public parks. I like these ideas. 1 0
Fun idea. 0 0
There used to be thriving butterfly plants here. I love the idea of a butterfly garden and miss that giant plant. This wall could also be the place of an inspiring mural.
30 I prefer the idea of expanding away from El Camino instead. If people turn onto San Carlos Avenue, they will find the delightful space. I like the added security of NOT extending to El Camino.
00 I like this idea.

I really value gathering places where people can be among trees/plants and have multiple seating options (rocks, turf, steps, benches). Central, comfortable gathering places increase sense of community. 10 I would also like this little park to be redesigned. I think removing that sculpture (of a metal person) would be great. It is not aesthetic nor is it meaningful. Remove that and create flow from the park to Laurel Street.

Add rocks to sit on, turf to sit on, benches to sit on. Plants and trees. If you do need public art, have diverse people involved to pick something better.
00 I like that idea. It could be an open space like a town square, where people can sit and gather. There are a variety of surfaces these days. A park‐like feel where people could sit on the "ground" and hang out a bit I love the central squares in some towns with businesses on the perimeter. Los Robles comes to mind.  Areas with trees, picnic tables, and benches are helpful for meeting places and gatherings. Helping people connect in public spaces creates the sense of community that is invaluable.
00 I agree about fun, safe places for teens to hang out and feel welcome. Old timey video arcade. Stinson Beach has a concrete ping pong table in a park. You can provide paddles/balls, have a check‐out system at the library, etc.  Things to do for teens.
10 9.k
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I love the central squares in some towns with businesses on the perimeter. Los Robles comes to mind.  Areas with trees, picnic tables, and benches are helpful for meeting places and gatherings. Helping people connect in public spaces creates the sense of community that is invaluable.
10 Agreed. This park is too small for the number of dogs in our community.

There was a time when a section of Burton Park under the trees was fenced in for dogs. That seems like a great opportunity to evaluate 00 Like the idea of a meditation area, the other courtyard closer to the library may be an option, that area seems under utilized and the fountain no longer is filled. Perhaps replace that with a meditation maze? 00 The City of Menlo Park saved Kepler's Book, feel like we need to do the same and support the Reading Bug as it has been an anchor for San Carlos families and the community.
20 Why is it called Wheeler Plaza if it doesn’t have a plaza open to the public? A nice courtyard space with a fountain, trees and benches would have been nice. Can we incorporate that someplace in downtown? 30 Completely agree ‐ it is a wonderful part of our community! We can’t let it go.
20 Would love to see a cafe move into the ground floor of wheeler plaza, like cafe barrone in Menlo Park ‐ a casual spot to have a light meal and gather. 90 I love that there is a dog park, but can we also create another small park near downtown with flowers, trees and benches for people? Greening our community should be a priority.
81 Make the currently blocked stretch of laurel street to a walking area ‐ remove the asphalt. 82
Great idea. I believe there’s one at the new Atherton library 0 0 Could even be a coffee cart! 1 0
This should be a plaza or park. We need more public space in this town especially with population density increasing
10 I think that's a poor comparison because the Hillsdale mall is rather large and expansive. While I do absolutely advocate for expanding that park if Laurel street remains closed, if it doesn't, like many argue it shouldn't, then this would probably be an ill‐fated project.
00 Park with trees and outdoor seating would enhance the atmosphere.

Possibly public art/mural. Could be a stage area during festivals. 10 If this remains a parking lot, the traffic flow and signage need to be improved including one‐way signs in alley. 00
It would be fun if there was a public piano or keyboard for people to play.

It could probably go under a covered patio.
40 Could a portion of this space be used to build a serene space, like a tea garden, a meditation garden, or a labyrinth? 42

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How about a cafe / coffee shop at the library? And some late night hours as well. 15 1
Would be good to utilize the underground parking for evening visitors to downtown.  Is that underground lot ever full? 10
Save The Bug! 3 0
Agree.  And presume this would / should be done with a pedestrian only section of Laurel Street.
00 What if the park extended all the way to El Camino, giving people a window into our beautiful downtown? You'd never know what is one street back, driving along ECR.
41 Need to find a space downtown for The Reading Bug since the landlord is demolishing building.  It is a key piece of our community and the downtown shopping experience with story times and author visits.  Have enjoyed their outdoor story times!  It would be a shame for the city to not assist a vital, community, family owned business.
33 1
Redevelop this mini park to spill out to Laurel st. Park is not well designed and has a lot of potential. Could be like the open space at Hillsdale mall by the Apple store.
22 2
I would really like to see some type of teen spaces! 6 1 Consider expanding Harrington park across the street to this space to make a larger gathering space.

I assume that would require the city purchasing this plot and possibly including the BofA building itself.  Encourage adjacent structures to orient towards the park and increase the height limits to make it a cozy space for gathering, concerts and activities.
12 1
It's likely that I may work from home forever.  It'd be great to have an open park space to occasionally work from.  I'd love for downtown to provide such spaces
10 Agreed.  I want to tell my kids so go here to hang out.  Having more for them here would be great.
20 If this could officially be designated to become a park then before the next tenant moves into the currently empty restaurant the future tenant could orient the storefront with the park in mind.  That would further “activate” the park.
20 let's have more gatherings in the City Hall / Dog Park area, similar to RWC and their Square
41 Yes, I echo this concern.  The teens need a spot to gather to foster friendships after school hours.  Outdoor and fun activities for young people that engage in fitness and artistic aspirations. 40 I agree! It'd also be great if the City offered free public wi‐fi outdoors (within a defined zone). 00
It would be great to have some shaded table/chair spaces that are independent of restaurant seating.
22 0
As a teen in San Carlos and a member of the Youth Advisory Council, it would be nice to see more things to do for high schoolers as there is really no dedicated events/space for us to hang out downtown.
19 0

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There was talk at one time of this parking lot becoming a park. I think that would be lovely. 18 1
Many of us purchased our condos when this was off the the main part of downtown.  Please maintain some type of quiet hours so we can sleep. 20 This far down doesn't get much attention or as much foot traffic, perhaps adding small parks/gathering spaces would draw more people. to this part of downtown.
35 1
Create more space here for people to gather and sit ‐ even give those working from home a new place for work for a few hours 12 1

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Other Comments
Comment Up Votes Down Votes
Laurel behind Trader Joe’s is a disgrace—full of trash in the bushes, weeds, broken glass.  Not sure what goes on there but SC needs to give it extra attention.  I know you know what I’m talking about. 00 I see people going the wrong way down the one way all the time.

You should mark that with better signage.
00 We do not want to look like Redwood City with six story buildings.

Please look at Menlo Park for how nicely their El Camino project has been designed.
00 Like the idea of pop‐markets somewhere in San Carlos, but I wonder who owns this space in front of the Transit building?  Is it the city, or privately owned?
00 Given the vacancies of the ground floor commercial spaces at Wheeler Plaza, the Trestle development by the train station, 934 Laurel...a multistory building with retail/residential doesn't sound like a development concept that is working well in San Carlos.  Also the city needs to be very careful going forward to make certain that our sewers, drainage systems, water sources, etc. are adequate for additional developments.
00 Menlo Park is a good role model when looking to improve the El Camino Real in San Carlos.  Please look at the wonderful development this city has done between Valparaiso and Sand Hill Road on El Camino. Their ideas for height and design are tasteful and have class. No six story buildings please.
00 As a continuation of my comment to raise the good energy in downtown San Carlos, the downtown area needs to stay away from dark, dismal storefronts that are painted black, dark gray, brown.

These colors drag down the energy of a building and the success of the establishment.
00 Town and County Village at the corner of El Camino and the Embarcadero in Palo Alto had a "face lift" a few years ago, and the face lift has brought about a wonderful turn around in the prosperity of the shopping center.  I would suggest that San Carlos ask Town and Country Village for the name of their redesign consultant.  Perhaps it was a Feng Shui expert as the renewed success and the good energy this shopping center is truly wonderful. San Carlos needs to focus on raising the good energy. 00 I believe the flooding is a recurring issue.  If so, what are the proposed solutions?  What is the cost of infrastructure changes versus building requirement changes?  Has this issue been studied? 00 9.k
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We should get rid of the height restrictions since it doesn't allow the density needed to reflect the community needs.  We need more housing and retail space in areas that  are close to transportation centers.  We can't go back to low maximum height building and more auto parking.  That will not work given our current needs.  It will stifle the growth we need to remain a diverse viable community in the future.
00 If revitalizing the space could be done without tearing down the building, that would be great.  In my head, the way to revitalize is to put in a new more inviting (less soviet‐style) building.  However, often the most unique ideas that really call out a "place" come from making something out of nothing.  Someone mentioned putting vendors on the street.  That's a great start and idea.
00 I agree with the general thrust of this comment.  It's a great local super market.  However the way the building is situated really detracts from downtown.  Bring it closer to the street, and it will probably become an even more beloved market as it will be more of a space for people and not just a market surrounded by a moat of cars.
00 Plenty of neighboring pharmacies in San Carlos… would be glad to see this space evolve somehow to accommodate more housing that is needed close to downtown.
00 great idea would help during the many festivals/events/farmers markets that happen downtown. Be great to have them as gender neutral and accessible to be inclusive of all needs.
00 A great point I miss Vanilla Moon Bakery that was downtown ages ago and nothing similar has come back since. Luckily lots of options close by in RWC or San Mateo.
00 Drivers that are unaware the stop signs are only on Walnut and stop while driving on Cherry cause traffic issues. 4 way stops are the norm for 99% of intersections. Why is this intersection different? 00 Please keep the small‐town feel of San Carlos intact by preserving local grocers such as Bianchini's. And keep building heights to what they are ‐ no need to build up, up, up on Laurel Street. 22 Keep parking here free! And same with Laurel St. 1 0 Glad to see neighbors attacking other neighbors for just throwing out an opinion. City of Good Living at its finest. 10

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HELL NO. CVS Is a great resource, I obtain many health resources for my family members and disabled neighbor here by foot every other week. Removing this is going to divert customers to Walgreens (also off of Laurel) or CVS in Belmont. We just completed the new plaza across the street and not all spaces have been filled yet. I remember Safeway, if we could that would be great because they also have a pharmacy inside. Your plea for additional gentrification nonsense. 31 YES!!! IN FACT LETS STOP NEW DEVELOPMENTS ENTIRELY!!! CALIFORNIA, ESPECIALLY THE SF BAY AREA IS FULL TO THE BRIM.

MOVE TO IDAHO, NEBRASKA, SOUTH CAROLINA, NEW MEXICO,
ANYWHERE BUT HERE!!!! This is 100% Genuine) MAX HEIGHT
SHOULD BE TWO STORIES 10FT CEILINGS MAX.
02 Really... daily? Such exaggeration is still jarring even in the current age we all live in. I would say far less then considering I live a block away. Look, wave, cross. They teach it to school children if you were not aware I am sure you could find something on YouTube. If not, you could probably find a reflective set of pants and jacket on Amazon. Just use your smartphone thingamajig gadget gizmo and it will get you there; SAFELY!
02 Really... daily? Such exaggeration is still jarring even in the current age we all live in. I would say far less then considering I live a block away. Look, wave, cross. They teach it to school children if you were not aware I am sure you could find something on YouTube. If not, you could probably find a reflective set of pants and jacket on Amazon. Just use your smartphone thingamajig gadget gizmo and it will get you there; SAFELY!
01 No you do not know how this area has been functional for many decades. Nonsensical, irrelevant feedback here. What stores do you propose will fill the void of former retailers? What "flow" are you referencing of which you seems so falsely knowledgeable about? 01 This is not genuine conversation, you people seek to undermine San Carlos and steer the narrative towards more housing/development that is simply not sustainable for the long term health of our community. You fraud.
00 This is not genuine conversation, you people seek to undermine San Carlos and steer the narrative towards more housing/development that is simply not sustainable for the long term health of our community. You fraud.
00 This is not genuine conversation, you people seek to undermine San Carlos and steer the narrative towards more housing/development that is simply not sustainable for the long term health of our community. You fraud.
00 Just because we can does not mean we should. 0 0

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Why? 0 0
These are not organic, why should this section also be
incorporated? 00
*DECORATIONS 0 0
Google Maps... That says it all... Why should it continue past this intersection? Has it historically continued past this intersection? IF not, why NOT? The "BIG" park has a BIG CELL TOWER IN THE MIDDLE OF IT. Is that a nice family attraction? The streets surrounding it see tremendous traffic you are simply naive to. You walk to a park with the expectation that your arrival will be celebrated...? Why would the nature reserve ever celebrate you(r arrival)??? Who will fund these decoratinos??
01 The outsider is shocked by this fact although you do not hear such outrage from residents who have lived here their entire lives. I grew up across Walnut Street and never once have I felt insecure about crossing the street or "PUSHED" by another vehicle or pedestrian.

TOTAL BS FROM AN OUTSIDER.
01 More traffic = More of a carbon footprint. Let nature retake our space instead of people traveling into unknown territory to purchase crepes, sandwiches, burgers, etc. What separates an Asian Grocery Store from a "Traditional" Grocery Store?
00 Why exactly do we "NEED" to see such options? so this area "NEEDS" people when historically it hasn't seen such trends? Cafes offering what specifically that would truly "ENRICH" this area?" Boba Shops??? Money Laundering, perhaps? Do you really take us for such fools?
01 Counseling is psychobabble meant to dissuade truth. 0 0 The rains from flooding. Let me guess... CLIMATE CHANGE!?!?!? Flooding happens due to the inability of local government to act swiftly primarily caused by nepotism.
00 Quiet Exists for those in quiet areas. If you seek industrialization say goodbye to this. Make a choice already. 00
Why not confuse development all the way to Eaton. There are already some successful restaurants and shops and linking the area would make a lot of sense and give people in WO more ability to visit places on foot.
31 I would love to see this part of Laurel street developed to have more shops and restaurants! 20
We need to limit the height on new buildings.   The recently built apartments and condos are too big.  It is nice to have sun on Laurel Street,  but if we keep building up,  we will shade Laurel, and become like downtown San Mateo , and Redwood City.  I like it now.  Do not allow new building to ruin it
42 Walnut is way too narrow, it’ gets backed up and it’s dangerous. It should be one way.
22 Yes, please improve our infrastructure.  We should not have flooded streets and freeways. 10

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Please consider speed bumps near crosswalks. 0 0
This used to be a movie theatre.  For those who don't like the building, where do you think the SamTrans offices should be go? 00 This used to be a Safeway.  Now two CVSs in San Carlos and two Safeways in Belmont.  The parking lot is required for this amount of shopping.  I'd like this to be a grocery store again.
20 There seem to be enough restaurants.I would like some useful stores like an Ace Hardware, a fine bakery which bakes bread, an Asian grocery store, fruit and vegetable market (street market is nice but it is not there every day). The south of Laurel is just a bunch of run down beauty and. Nail salons.
10 Smoking should be banned near dining establishments and shops.

Nothing can ruin a meal faster than a cigarette. Well, perfume can as well but I'm not going there.
91 Shouldn't the plan include the areas down to Eaton Avenue as well? 0 0 Open the street back up. It's crazy that it's still closed. 2 15 +1 we need more coffee shops and bakeries which attract regular customers. Restaurants are great but people visit coffee shops a lot more frequently. Also we don’t have a good bakery in San Carlos. 20 The El Camino and Laurel Street businesses in this area really suffered in the rains from flooding.  Better drainage needs to happen.  One Life Counseling office was destroyed and their insurance doesn't cover it, and now they can't do their valuable food distribution,
60 The train horns are very loud, especially at night. We should declare San Carlos a "Quiet Zone", like other cities did on the Peninsula. https://www.ci.atherton.ca.us/Faq.aspx?TID=24,
https://sanjosespotlight.com/san‐jose‐residents‐clamor‐for‐a‐good‐ nights‐sleep‐japantown‐warm‐springs‐rail‐corridor‐union‐pacific‐ railroad‐train‐quiet‐zone/
https://abc7news.com/sj‐train‐horns‐partial‐quiet‐zone‐warm‐ springs‐union‐pacific‐railroad‐corridor‐montgomery‐and‐horning‐ streets‐noise/11839739/
10 The plaza could host pop up markets, food carts, Etsy‐type/art and wine style vendors on a rotating basis, open the doors for public restrooms. Agree it is under utilized area but could be brought back to life without a huge amount of work.
20 9.k
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Having Laurel street close these past few years have been so wonderful. My family and I stroll, and shop, a lot more on Laurel street because of the walkability and safety the street closure provides. It's great to see so many people out and about on the street. I hope the closure continues indefinitely.
21 Why not include all of Laurel St.? 5 0
General comment ‐ for all of San Carlos, especially downtown ‐ need to increase pedestrian safety.  I am shocked there are not more accidents.  As a resident of Walnut street and often walk downtown I cannot go a day without being "pushed" thru the crosswalk by a car.
71 Need safer pedestrian crossing at this intersection. Especially so close to the schools. Children come down School St after school and run across this intersection.
30 Need this to be a four way stop and better lights at night. Very dangerous. 41
Would love to add more restaurants (of various types ‐ we need more options) and quality retail to this part of downtown to draw people in. Additional cafes would also be nice ‐ not just Starbucks and Peet’s.
92 This building is an eyesore. Best would be if it could be torn down and start from scratch. In its current state it has zero curbside appeal.
00 I knew it would be complicated but just while we are all brainstorming thought I would throw it out there. Definitely would need to be done in sections but the payoff would be well worth it to integrate into the new downtown fabric
31 Looks like crews are working on the spaces now. Probably Covid delays but things look to be coming soon.
00 I love this idea but... cost. The parking spaces there are almost always full, which means they are needed. I think an alternative to completely redeveloping the land is to move the parking back onto an alley (which you could refurbish in the process), and then add a new building or park in the space previously occupied by parking. 31 Redevelop CVS into a multistory building to include retail on the ground level and residences above with parking lot underground. So much wasted space here
34 The last time I was at the post office the automated machine was broken and vomit was in the center of the floor. Please connect with the Post office to remedy and keep better cleaning standards 53 Attract other popular restaurants like the Refuge to help the downtown expand to these smaller foot traffic areas.
13 2
Disrupts the flow of Laurel street having this parking and drive thru.

Consider redevelopment of bank and parking lot of sushi to new retail storefronts to keep downtown flowing
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We love Bianchinis and frequent a few times a week but it definitely feels a bit dates at times. Would the city be willing to give tax benefits to redevelop the land with multiple stories with the ground floor as a grocery tenant and allow residences/offices above. Below level parking garage would be encouraged. Would eliminate the dead walking space and keep downtown from having all the gaps for parking.
10 8
I agree. This should probably be a 4 way stop. 2 0
The 600 block of Laurel Street and all of San Carlos Avenue needs to get the street parking back.

The temporary park‐lets are unsightly, not up to code and only supporting restaurants.

Keep the 700 block pedestrian and return the rest of the street parking back to the way it was.
433
Why are they empty? If commercial on the first floor and residential on top is the new desired model, you have to wonder if that's working.
21 Please add public restrooms somewhere more than at the ACC/Library/City Hall area. Ideas: city lot near Wheeler Plaza, city park on Laurel, CalTrain station, somewhere between Olive and Brittan Ave.
11 2
This is a very dangerous intersection with near‐accidents almost daily (both pedestrian and with cars.) Please look into how it can be reconfigured to improve safety.
81 Why isn't Howard Avenue included?  This makes no sense. 3 1 What is the justification for starting/stopping at Greenwood Avenue?  That makes no sense, and, at the very least, it should include through Howard Avenue!
41 Wish this wasn't a bank in an 80's building. 1 1
Downtown officially dies right here.  I Would love to see it continue past this intersection.

Part of it is that only 1 restaurant has anything
Outdoors.  The other 3 corner businesses are pretty dead to the outside space.

This is also a key path to Burton park. Would love to See some celebration of taking a nice walk/bike to the big park.  Decorate the intersection as a sort of gateway towards Burton.
21 3
Making this fix could also help make the stores across the street more enticing for tenants
30 The SamTrans building is such an “drive‐to—work‐hide‐in‐the‐ fortress‐office design.  Even with small first floor businesses and ample sidewalk space in this fortress of a building it is such an I inviting space for human beings.  Can something be done here to encourage more public use of this space?   It’s a great location that people just quickly walk past.
90 9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1897
The ground commercial spaces have been empty for quite a while now.  We need to rent these out since empty storefronts detract from the downtown revitalization.
10 0
Would love to see the "overall plan" contain ideas about how to strengthen links between downtown core, mid Laurel and south Laurel. A stronger visual continuity of street trees, etc would encourage more pedestrian traffic along the entire stretch. 13 1
This block the street is very dirty.  Suggest to have a power wash in the 600 ‐ 700 block.  Due to drought we lack mother nature to help wash the streets.
30 9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1898
SCDSP Laurel Street Word Cloud
When you go the 700 block, what draws you there? Specifically, what is the reason yo… restaurants
dining
Food
shopping
outdoor
Community
Street
walking
shops
retail
Eat coffee
walk
Closed
stores
traffic
Eating
drink
banking
dine
walkable
walkability shop
Eat.

Enjoy
town
love
space
pedestrian
cars
-
friendly
driving
Pedestrians
outdoors
local
events
hang
Walk.

Stroll.

Carless.
kids. zone
run
find restaurant.
time
restaurants.

Meet
people
atmosphere
bank
restaurant
kids
options
ice
cream
friends
freely
neighborhood
nightlife
cars.
family. shops/restaurants
Bike
scooter!
UPS
free
Errands
Hallmark
Teppanyaki
ReadingBug
stroll
postoffice.
casually
friends.
activity
inviting.
drinking
establishments
Christmas
gifts.
atmosphere!
FOREVER!!!!
Stop
Clocktower
grab
tea
explore
Restaurants/retail/banking
location
america
Pedestrian-only
area.

Safety
tranquility
visiting
seating.
vehicle
noise
closure
live
music
performances
food.
dinner
lunch
strolling
open-air
ambiance
draws
vehicles
Lively
lights crowd
blocked
seating
sense
Leisure
Reading
Bug
hanging
family
blocks
parking. parklets
barricades
eyesore.
visit
permanent nice
plaster
end
sitting
(not
pretty
curb
spaces)
street.
friend neighbor awhile
relax
walks
baby
east
ability
push
store it’s
&
hair
dog
day.
open
boba
etc.
restaurants 21
Food 9
Shopping 7
Outdoor dining 7
Dining 6
Community 6
Shops and Restaurants 3
street is closed 2
stores 2
friendly walking 2
Response Count

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1899
driving 2
banking 2
Walking, dining, community 1
walking, coffee, food, restaurants, neighborhood, pedestrians, nightlife 1 walking to shops and restaurants to dine outdoors 1
Walkable local retail and events 1
Walkable 1
Walkability without cars. Go to shop, eat, and hang out with family. 1 Walk. Stroll. Eat. Carless. 1
Walk around and enjoy the shops/restaurants with my kids. Bike and scooter! 1 walk 1
UPS 1
Traffic free zone 1
Town, Errands 1
Town Hallmark Teppanyaki ReadingBug Food Retail 1
to stroll 1
To get to stores or the postoffice. 1
to get coffee or go eat. Being able to casually run into friends. The activity is inviting. 1 To find eating and drinking establishments 1
to eat outdoors 1
To eat or get a drink at a restaurant. During Christmas time, I shop for gifts. 1 to dine outside and enjoy the atmosphere! Love the street closed and would LOVE TO SEE THIS FO REVER!!!!
1 stores or restaurants 1

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1900
Stop at Clocktower and grab a tea 1
space walking food explore 1
space to walk 1
Shops, restaurants. 1
shopping, eating 1
shopping, banking 1
Shopping and dining 1
shopping and coffee 1
shop, dine, meet people, 1
Restaurants/retail/banking 1
Restaurants location atmosphere 1
restaurants bank 1
Restaurants and local retail 1
restaurants and bank of america 1
Restaurant 1
Pedestrians only 1
Pedestrian-only area. Safety, tranquility in visiting, especially with kids. 1 Pedestrian 1
outdoor restaurants, NO cars 1
outdoor restaurants 1
Outdoor restaurant seating. No cars 1
outdoor eating 1
outdoor dining, walkability, no vehicle noise, retail, street closure, live music and performances, food. 1

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1901
Outdoor dining no traffic 1
Outdoor dining for dinner and lunch 1
outdoor dining and strolling with kids 1
open-air ambiance 1
Nothing draws me there 1
nothing 1
No vehicles 1
No traffic, restaurants and shops 1
Meet people for coffee 1
Lively 1
lights, crowd, blocked street with no cars, outdoor seating and dining options, sense of community 1 Leisure 1
Ice cream, Reading Bug 1
I usually go there for the food and hanging out with friends and family 1 I only go to the blocks that have parking. The parklets and barricades are an eyesore. 1 I like to walk freely on the street and go there to visit the shops or go to a restaurant. I would love to s ee a permanent pedestrian zone with nice plaster end sitting options (not only the - not so pretty - cur b spaces)
1 I just like walking down the street. I often run in to a friend or neighbor who I have not seen for awhile 1 hang out, friends, eat, drink coffee, relax 1
Going on walks with my baby - east ability to push stroller down the middle of the street without feelin g it’s too crowded
1 go to cleaners and to ice cream store 1
for retail shopping & hair services 1
Food, shopping, community 1

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1902
food, restaurants, shopping, walkable, pedestrian, kids 1 food, community, walkability 1
Food and drink, shopping 1
Food and community. 1
Farmers market 1
Exercise and community while dining out or buying items. 1 Enjoy car-free downtown 1
Eating outside, walking freely without worry of traffic 1 Eat drink walk dog 1
Don't go there anymore. It's too much of a hassle. Trying to find parking anywhere nearby is almost im possible any time of the day.
1 dining, retail 1
dining shopping and events 1
despiration 1
Community, open space, atmosphere, dining 1
Community interaction, restaurants 1
Closed Street 1
chores 1
Carless. Walk. Stroll. Eat. 1
Carless 1
bustle 1
businesses. NOT restaurants. 1
Brunch at town 1
Bookstore 1

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1903
Answered: 161 Skipped: 1
boba guys 1
all in one location...dining, shopping, etc. 1
Accessibility 1

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1904
SCDSP Public Spaces Survey
What is your highest priority for public spaces in the downtown area? Answered: 238 Skipped: 9
I want to enjoy a public
space and the sense of
community
I want to be able to eat lunch
outside
I want to go somewhere with
my kids
I would like events and
programs
I want to enjoy a public space and the sense of community 150 60.73% I want to be able to eat lunch outside 44 17.81%
I want to go somewhere with my kids 24 9.72%
I would like events and programs 20 8.1%
Answers Count Percentage

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1905
Please rank the amenities in order of importance to you in the downtown core. 0 2
4 6
Trees and the ...

Open air with ...

Movable furnit...

Bistro lightin...

Area where chi...

Lawn or landsc...

Stage/music ve...

Fountain/ Wate...
1 Trees and the shade
trees provide
2 Open air with some
shade covering
3 Movable furniture (tables,
chairs, umbrellas)
4 Bistro lighting

31.82%
77 18.6%
45 15.29%
37 10.33%
25 9.92%
24 5.37%
13 6.2%
15 22.31%
54 23.97%
58 14.88%
36 12.4%
30 11.57%
28 8.26%
20 4.13%
10 9.09%
22 18.6%
45 15.29%
37 14.88%
36 12.81%
31 14.05%
34 7.85%
19 6.61%
16 9.92%
24 11.98%
29 17.36%
42 16.94%
41 13.22%
32 14.46%
35 5.99

5.79 4.86

4.27 Rank Answers 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Average
score

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1906
Answered: 242 Skipped: 5
5 Area where children can
play
6 Lawn or landscaping

11.98%
29 9.92%
24 9.5%
23 11.57%
28 7.02%
17 11.57%
28 15.29%
37 4.55%
11 8.68%
21 13.64%
33 8.68%
21 15.7%
38 18.6%
45 14.88%
36 3.97

3.86 9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1907
SCDSP Laurel Street
Which is your preferred 700 block option?
Answered: 239 Skipped: 5
Plaza Option
Pre-2020 Option
Widened Sidewalk
Flexible Closure
Plaza Option 177 72.54%
Pre-2020 Option 27 11.07%
Widened Sidewalk 24 9.84%
Flexible Closure 11 4.51%
Answers Count Percentage

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1908
I would go downtown more often ______.

Answered: 244 Skipped: 0
0 50
100
150
200
If there was a... If there were ... If I could dri... For Farmer’s M... Other If there was a permanent plaza, public gathering spaces 171 70.08% If there were wider sidewalks with adjacent parking 22 9.02% If I could drive down the 700 block, like before 2020 26 10.66% For Farmer’s Market and special events 0 0%
Other 21 8.61%
Answers Count Percentage

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1909
I would like to see more of the following in Downtown:
0 50
100
150
200
Outdoor dining
Street furnish...

Plazas
Public Art
Wayfinding (si...

Street trees
Bicycle Parkin...

Other
Outdoor dining 180 73.77%
Street furnishings 104 42.62%
Plazas 169 69.26%
Public Art 114 46.72%
Wayfinding (signs w/direction, distance) 60 24.59%
Street trees 145 59.43%
Bicycle Parking 75 30.74%
Answers Count Percentage

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1910
Answered: 240 Skipped: 4
Other 29 11.89%
What types of programs or entertainment would you like to see downtown? 0 50
100
150
200
Music events
Kid friendly p...

Theater/Perfor...

Cultural or ar...

Movies on the ...

Activities/yog...

Chess, backgam...

Music events 179 73.36%
Kid friendly programs 127 52.05%
Theater/Performance pop up events 122 50%
Cultural or art exhibits 153 62.7%
Movies on the plaza/square 109 44.67%
Answers Count Percentage

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1911
Answered: 229 Skipped: 15
Activities/yoga, tai chi, qi gong 70 28.69%
Chess, backgammon, game night 74 30.33%

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1912
19 City of San Carlos Downtown Specific Plan
Appendix E
Spotlight Newsletter:
• Aug 2022 Spotlight Newsletter

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1913
ON

NEWSWORTHY
TOPICS

SAN CARLOS
City Council
Strategic Objectiv
e
THIS ISSUE’S FOCUS:

Planning for the Future
of Downtown and the
Laurel Street Corridor
August 2021
www.cityofsancarlos.org/laurelstreet
In this issue:
• What will the Plan Consider?
• How long will it take to
prepare the Plan?
• What is the Proposed
Study Area?
• What Other City Plans
are in the Works?
• What will be Considered
in the Plan?
• How Can I Get Involved?
What Will the Future of
Downtown and Laurel
Street Look Like?
Several years ago, the City Council advanced the
idea of creating a new plan for the San Carlos
downtown. This was 10 years after the adoption
of the 2009 San Carlos General Plan (the guiding
document that shapes the future of the city). With
increasing interest in walkability and outdoor dining, and with the recent closure of certain portions of Laurel Street to pedestrian-only access— a new vision for San Carlos’ downtown emerged and with it, much discussion over whether to make the closure temporary, permanent, or something else entirely. This is the ideal time to address the future of downtown Laurel Street and its surroundings.

The City Council is committed to working with residents, property owners, business owners, committees, commissions, the Chamber of Commerce, and all other interested members of the community to develop a plan for the downtown area. The goal will be to understand and ensure that Laurel Street, including downtown, meets the needs of the community and businesses now and into the future. Our planning process will center on inclusive civic engagement and draw upon the community’s shared desires and aspirations to transform the downtown.

For the remainder of 2021, the City will create the approach and scope of the plan. During the process, the Council’s Downtown Subcommittee will work with City staff and a consultant before bringing the plan back to the full City Council for approval.

Beginning in 2022, the City will update its development policies and standards governing the Laurel Street area, including the adjacent cross street blocks. This process will ensure maximum community participation so that all interested stakeholders can benefit from decisions that will ultimately shape the future of our downtown.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1914
The distribution,
location, and extent
of the uses of land,
including open
space, within the
area covered by
the plan.

The proposed
distribution, location,
and extent and
intensity of major
components of
public and private
transportation,
sewage, water,
drainage, solid waste
disposal, energy,
and other essential
facilities proposed to
be located within the
area covered by the
plan and needed to
support the land uses
described in the plan.

Standards and
criteria by which
development will
proceed, and
standards for the
conservation,
development, and use
of natural resources,
where applicable.

A Specific Plan covers the following:

A program of
implementation
measures including
regulations, programs,
public works projects,
and financing
measures.

A statement
of the relationship of
the specific plan to
the general plan.

What will the Plan Consider?
The most appropriate document to address the future of the downtown and Laurel Street is a specific Plan. A specific Plan would create a solid foundation and framework so that the desired community vision has the best opportunity to be realized. The Plan will contain detailed land use standards and implementation measures required of future projects located along Laurel Street, including downtown. This may include criteria on building height and what the structures should look like.

The Plan will also consider major
infrastructure, such as sidewalks,
trees, parking, and public amenities
like seating and bike parking. It will
establish the “look” and “feel” of what
future development along Laurel Street
and the downtown will be. It will also refine
the parameters of allowable development and
developer and property owner responsibilities.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1915
How long will it take to prepare the Plan?
The development of a new plan for Laurel Street and the downtown will take approximately two years.

The process will begin in the first quarter of 2022, wrapping up with adoption in the first quarter of 2024.

What is the Proposed Study Area?
This plan will look at the full Laurel Street corridor and larger downtown area with a holistic perspective to accommodate desired improvements and growth.

PROPOSED

STUDY AREA
Industrial Rd
Commercial St
Brittan Ave
Woodland Ave
Varian St
Bing St
Old County Rd
Bransten Rd
Walnut St
Elm St
Orange Ave
Chestnut St
Cedar St
Arroyo Ave
Baytree Rd
Morse Blvd
Elm St
Walnut St
Walnut St
Cedar St
Geneva Ave
Chestnut St
Belvedere Ave
White Oak Way
Gover Ln
Oakhurst Ave
Brittan Ave
Howard Ave
American St Bayport Ave
Orange Ave
Knoll Dr
Hemlock St
Cordilleras Ave
Elizabeth St
Magnolia Ave
Industrial Rd
Chestnut St
Elm St
Elm St
Rosewood Ave
Old County Rd
Howard Ave
Greenwood Ave
Industrial Rd
Commercial St
Brittan Ave
Woodland Ave
Varian St
Bing St
Old County Rd
Bransten Rd
Walnut St
Elm St
Orange Ave
Chestnut St
Cedar St
Arroyo Ave
Baytree Rd
Morse Blvd
Elm St
Walnut St
Walnut St
Cedar St
Geneva Ave
Chestnut St
Belvedere Ave
White Oak Way
Gover Ln
Oakhurst Ave
Brittan Ave
Howard Ave
American St Bayport Ave
El Camino Real
Orange Ave
Knoll Dr
Hemlock St
Cordilleras Ave
Elizabeth St
Magnolia Ave
Howard Ave
Greenwood Ave
Industrial Rd
Chestnut St
Elm St
Elm St
Rosewood Ave
El Camino Real
Old County Rd
Howard Ave
Greenwood Ave
San Carlos Ave
Laurel Street Corridor
Eaton Ave
Release
Request for
Proposals
(RFP)
November
2021
RFP Submittals
Deadline and
Consultant
Interview
January
2022 City
Council
Approves
Consultant
Selection
February
2022
Project
Kickoff
March
2022 Project
Duration
March
2022
March
-2024

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1916
What Other City Plans are in the Works?
The City is currently managing two long-range planning projects:

San Carlos 2040 is the Focused General Plan Update specifically centered on the City’s Housing and Environmental Safety Elements that include updates to the City’s Zoning Ordinance. This is a two-year initiative to guide housing decisions for the next eight years and address how to accommodate 2,735 new housing units from 2023-2031, as required by the State’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA). This project will review and update the City’s Environmental Safety Element, which focuses on reducing the potential short and long-term risks resulting from fires, floods, droughts, earthquakes, landslides, climate change, and other hazards.

The East Side Innovation District Vision Plan is a 9-month initiative that will wrap up by October this year. This Plan will establish a guiding vision to manage and direct changes in development patterns, and address the influx of jobs in the industrial and commercial areas from Holly Street to Brittan Avenue and between Old County Road and Industrial Road.

Modeling effective community engagement. Both of these long-range plans included extensive community engagement and outreach, which modeled the approach that will be used to create the Plan for the downtown and Laurel Street. As part of this new effort, the City will build on previous conversations with the community regarding future development, parklets, streetscape, connectivity, activity nodes, housing, mixed-use developments, public plazas, and more.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1917

BUSINESS
What will be Considered in the Plan?

MIXOFUSES

PARKLETS

MICRO-MOBILITY
CHA
M

BERANDDOWNTOW
N
B
DI

STREETCLOSURE

WALK-ABILITY
PLAZAS

PARKING

OUTDOORDINING

STREET-SCAPE

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1918

PRSRT STD

US POSTAGE
PAID

HAYWARD, CA
PERMIT #3335

CITY OF SAN CARLOS
600 Elm Street, San Carlos, CA 94070
www.cityofsancarlos.org
650-802-4100
*******ECRWSSEDDM*******

POSTAL CUSTOMER
How Can I Get Involved?
A good plan is one that involves everyone who will be impacted. The decision we make collaboratively through public meetings, surveys, and workshops will shape the downtown and Laurel Street for years to come! The City is inviting all community members who are interested in the downtown and Laurel Street area to participate in the upcoming discussions to ensure this effort meets the needs of the community and businesses now and into the future. No experience is necessary. Over the course of the two years, there will be multiple opportunities for community members to participate.

The City of San Carlos values input from our community and encourages you to sign up for project notifications to receive the latest news and details about future community workshops. Visit the City website to learn more about the this effort and how to sign up and get involved. www.cityofsancarlos.org/laurelstreet
Please join us as we begin the
conversation about the downtown
and Laurel Street area by signing
up on our project page at:
www.cityofsancarlos.org/laurelstreet.

For questions and comments, please
email Lisa Porras, Planning Manager
at [email protected]

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1919
20 City of San Carlos Downtown Specific Plan 9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1920
Downtown Business Stakeholder Meeting
May 24, 2023

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1921
Downtown Business Stakeholder Meeting
May 24, 2023
The City staff held a Downtown businesses stakeholder meeting on May 24th to have a meaningful dialogue with the downtown business community following the community’s support for, and the Council’s decision, to permanently close the 700 block of Laurel Street. To invite business owners, managers, and employees to the May 24 Business Focus Group meeting, City staff went door-to-door to all 150 businesses within the Downtown Specific Plan area. The Downtown Business Focus Group meeting on May 24th was hosted by Stamp Bar and Grill with 23 representatives from the business community in attendance.

Meeting Material
• Presentation
• Business Stakeholder Feedback Summary

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1922
Downtown Business Stakeholders Meeting
May 24, 2023
How can the City of San Carlos’ Downtown Specific Plan
support businesses, its operations and employees?

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1923
DTAC Meeting Agenda

1. Introductions & Etiquette

2. Downtown Business Profile

3. Downtown Specific Plan Project

4. Three Big Moves: 700 Block of Laurel, Public Gathering Spaces, Alleys

5. Hear from Businesses and Employees – What are your needs?

6. Takeaways
• Business/Employee Survey (May 11 – ongoing)
• Stay in Touch: www.sancarlosdowntownplan.com
• Fall Workshop and Open House – announcements forthcoming This Morning’s Program

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1924
DTAC Meeting Agenda
Community & Economic
Development
• Al Savay, Director
• Lisa Porras, Planning Manager
• Akanksha Chopra, Associate Planner
• Adam Aronson, Economic Development
& Housing Manager
• Cristian Padilla, Economic Development
Coordinator
• Linnet Kwok, Administrative Assistant
City Introductions
Public Works
• Steven Machida, Director
• Grace Le, City Engineer
• Hanieh Houshmandi,
Senior Traffic Engineer
• Angel Noriega,
Assistant Public Works
Superintendent
San Carlos Police
Bureau
• Dan Souza,
Downtown
Service Unit
• Sergeant Mark
Myers

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1925
DTAC Meeting Agenda
• Please raise your hand
• Speak one at a time; we want to hear you
• Be respectful of others; allow others to share their perspectives freely; we want to hear from everyone
• Be courteous to others; don’t call out other businesses Meeting Etiquette

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1926
Tonight’s Agenda DTAC Meeting Agenda
Downtown Business Profile

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1927
DTAC Meeting Agenda Downtown Business Profile

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1928
DTAC Meeting Agenda A general upward trend

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1929
Tonight’s Agenda DTAC Meeting Agenda
Downtown Specific Plan Project
www.sancarlosdowntownplan.com

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1930
Plan Area

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1931
Probable Transformations
10 9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1932
Key items include:

Parking; Land Use; Urban Design and the Public Realm; Infrastructure; Street Closure; Formula Business Ordinance; Building Height; Building Façades, Shopfronts and overall Architecture; Community Events; Maintenance; Emergency Access; Traffic and Circulation: Walking, Biking, and all-inclusive Accessibility; Outdoor Dining; Parklets and Plazas; Funding, Phasing, and Implementation; Businesses; Chamber of Commerce; Private Development; Downtown BID; and Civic Engagement.

What will the Plan address?

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1933
Community Engagement Summary

1. Citizen Advisory Committee Mtgs.

2. Two Community Workshops

3. Open House – Coffee & Comments

4. Three Online Surveys
• Business Survey (May 11 –
ongoing)

5. How can we best reach you?

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1934
What people are saying….

DTAC (Jan. 25, 2023):
• 92% would visit downtown if there was a permanent plaza • They would like to see more street furnishings
• Music events, cultural and art exhibits
• Want to eat outside
• Priority for public spaces: events and programs
• Open air spaces with shade coverings
Workshop (Feb. 15, 2023)
• “Gathering, Inviting, Walkable” – most important for the downtown vision • People want to enjoy public spaces and the sense of community it brings • Tree canopies; open air with shade coverings
• Bistro lighting, street trees
• Music events and cultural or art exhibits

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1935
What people are saying….

Coffee and Comments (March 4, 2023):
• People want to enjoy public spaces and the sense of community it can bring • Strong preference for open air spaces with shade coverings, tree canopies • More outdoor dining, street trees, bistro lighting and public art • Top activities desired: music, cultural & art exhibits, and movies on the plaza • Would go downtown more often if there was a permanent plaza and more public gathering spaces
Survey (March 1 – April)
• Highest priority for public spaces: want to be able to enjoy public space and the sense of community it brings
• Plaza option/full closure for 700 block of Laurel
• Trees and open air with shade coverings
• Moveable furniture, bistro lighting
• Top activities desired: Music and cultural events

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1936
Response from PTC (April 17)
700 Block, Laurel
Majority in favor of the full plaza option
Alleys
Crucial for success of Laurel closure
 Tidy up, include awnings, signage, public art,
archways, wayfinding, special paving
 Alleys will have to do “everything”
 Business access, truck deliveries, parking for
motorists, bicyclists, safe pathways to Laurel Street/
El Camino Real, ingress/egress for future housing
 Need a functional plan, set priorities for the alleys Public Gathering Spaces
 Redesign Harrington Park
 New plaza, larger/open plaza, as beautiful gateway
to/from Wheeler Plaza
 Design for music, stage, sunshades, trees, water
features, lighting

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1937
Response from City Council (April 24)
700 Block, Laurel
Proceed with the concept to transform the
area into a permanent public plaza.

Alleys
Alleys are the workforce of downtown
 Be clear on the functions of the alley
 Walking, connectivity
 Deliveries
 Well lighted, safety
 Hide the trash
 Paving treatments, help organize and slow traffic
down
 Mural and art can help improve appearance
Public Gathering Spaces
 Public restrooms, place so sit, inviting to all ages
 Be creative to activate spaces, not for dining only
 Music, Pop ups, holiday market, Art installations
 Bring more greenery/landscaping/trees/gardens into spaces  Performance space, e.g. “Shakespeare in the Park”
 Leave space that we can grown into; don’t need to figure it all out at once

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1938
Tonight’s Agenda DTAC Meeting Agenda
Leading with 3 Big Moves

1. 700 Block, Laurel - Public Plaza

2. Public Gathering Spaces

3. Alleys

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1939
700 Block, Laurel Street
Full closure, converted into a Public Plaza

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1940
Plaza Examples
Source: Al Savay Source: Al Savay

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1941
Public Gathering Spaces
• New Plaza Opportunity, 600 Block Laurel St.
• Harrington Park

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1942
Proposed
Plaza
600 Block Laurel Street
Wheeler Plaza
Location of Potential Future Public Plaza – 600 Block of Laurel Street Walnut Street
Cherry Street

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1943
Ideas for New Plaza 600 Block Laurel
Retail & Restaurant Development with a Small Plaza Space Source: City of San Carlos Source: Al Savay

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1944
Ideas for New Plaza 600 Block Laurel
Large Plaza Space
Source: iStock
Source: Al Savay

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1945
Harrington Park Concepts

1. Park & Plaza

2. All Plaza

3. Music & Stage

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1946
Harrington Park: Park & Plaza

1. Wood Beams and Lighting

2.Nature Play Area

3.Vines/Wall Screen

4.Fountain

5. Tree/Planter/Seat Wall

6. Memorial or Art Feature

7. Memorial Wall

8. Archway Entrance

9. Alley Access and Signage

10. Tables and
Chairs/Umbrellas

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1947
Harrington Park: All Plaza

1. Bistro Lighting

2.Special Paving & Seating Area

3.Vines/Wall Screen

4.Fountain

5. Tree/Planter/Seat Wall

6. Special Paving Into Laurel St.

7. Memorial Wall/ Art Wall

8. Alley Access and Wayfinding

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1948
Harrington Park: Music & Stage

1. Shade sails

2.Special Paving & Seating Area

3.Vines/Wall Screen

4. Stage

5. Tree/Planter/Seat Wall

6. Memorial Wall

7. Archway Entrance

8. Alley Access & Signage

9. Bistro Lighting

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1949
Ideas for Public Space Amenities
• Fountain/ Water feature
• Movable furniture (tables, chairs, umbrellas)
• Lawn or landscaping
• Area where children can play
• Stage/music venue
• Open air with some shade covering
• Tree canopy
• Bistro lighting
• Public art

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1950
Alley Network

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1951
Alleys: Existing Conditions
• Lack of signage
• Lack of lighting and can feel unsafe
• Individual trash receptacles clutter
• No clear pedestrian path of travel
• Service / delivery congestion
• Private / public parking confusion
• Lack/minimal handicap accessible
(ADA) parking
• Lack of bike parking and connectivity

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1952
Alleys: Possible Enhancements
• Wayfinding Signs
• Dedicated pedestrian paths of travel
• Dedicated delivery areas
• Dedicated trash receptacle areas
• Clearly denoted public parking
• Clearly marked ADA parking
• Bicycle parking and connectivity
• Pedestrian Scale / Street Lighting
• Alley Art / Mural Program

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1953
Alley Enhancement: Gateways
Existing: El Camino Real Alley from Laurel St. Proposed: El Camino Real Alley from Laurel St.

A. Gateway Feature
B. Special Parking Lot
Pavement
C. Level Sidewalk Crossing
D. Rolled Curb
E. Mural Wall Opportunity
F. Decorative Street Light
G. Truncated Dome
Example

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1954
Alley Enhancement: Crossings SAN CARLOS AVE.

A. Crosswalk Striping and
Ramp
B. Pedestrian Crossing Sign
C. Wayfinding Signage
Existing: Public Parking between Walnut St. & Laurel St. Proposed: Public Parking between Walnut St. & Laurel St.

Example decorative crosswalk

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1955
Alley Enhancement: Pedestrian Paths
Existing: Parking between B of A and US Banks Proposed: Parking between B of A and US Banks A. Flush Concert Edge
B. Special Pavement / Pedestrian Route
C. Wayfinding Signs
OLIVE
Example wayfinding sign

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1956
Alley Enhancement: Murals, Decor
Existing: Alley near Cherry St. and Laurel St.

Example: alleyway mural
A. Decorative Wayfinding Sign
B. Special Paving
C. Lighting
D. Rolled Curb
E. Mural Wall Opportunity
Proposed: Alley near Cherry St. and Laurel St.

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1957
Alleys: Examples

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1958
Alleys: More Examples
Source: RRM Design Group Source: Google Maps
Source: Google Maps

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1959
Tonight’s Agenda DTAC Meeting Agenda
Business and Employee
Considerations

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1960
Door to Door – What we heard.
 Parklets / Farmers Market Set Up
• Block the visibility to shopfronts
 Will parklets be removed?
 Parking signage doesn’t work (no
enforcement)
 City does not appear to be concerned
retail needs
 Diagonal Parking along San Carlos Avenue
is unsafe (several cars were hit)
 No space for uber eats/door dash
deliveries/pickup
 Loss of business during
construction
 Need a diversity of businesses in
downtown
 Feels unsafe to park in SamTrans
garage
 Does not feel comfortable nor safe
to dine in parklets along San Carlos
Avenue

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1961
Business & Employee Survey
Help the City develop meaningful
solutions for downtown San Carlos.

Please take our survey!
To learn more about the Downtown Specific Plan Project, visit www.sancarlosdowntownplan.com and sign up to receive
updates.

Questions? Want to share more? Reach us anytime at
[email protected]
Scan the QR code above with your
smart phone, or access the survey at
www.sancarlosdowntownplan.com .

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1962
Questions and Discussion
•What can the city do in the meantime?
•What should the priorities be?
•What is most important for the success of your business? •What is most important to employees?

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1963
www.sancarlosdowntownplan.com
Thank you!

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1964
Downtown Specific Plan
City of San Carlos
May 24, 2023
Downtown Businesses Stakeholder Meeting
Feedback Summary

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1965
Overview
The purpose of the May 24 mee�ng was to have a meaningful dialogue with the downtown business community following the community’s support for, and the Council’s decision, to permanently close the 700 block of Laurel Street. To invite business owners, managers, and employees to the May 24 Business Focus Group mee�ng, City staff went door-to-door to all 150 businesses within the Downtown Specific Plan area. During the invita�on process, staff received the following comments:
• The design of parklets and the Farmers’ Market set up blocks visibility to shopfronts • No space for Uber eats/DoorDash takeout/pickup
• When will parklets be removed? Loss of business during construc�on • Parking signage doesn’t work (no enforcement) Need a diversity of businesses in downtown • City does not care about retail businesses Feels unsafe to park in SamTrans garage • Diagonal parking along San Carlos Ave. is unsafe (several cars were hit) • Feels uncomfortable and unsafe to dine in parklets along San Carlos Ave.

The Downtown Business Focus Group mee�ng on May 24th was hosted by Stamp Bar and Grill with 23 representa�ves from the business community in atendance: 11 from the retail, 11 from restaurants, and 1 member from the Chamber of Commerce. Staff from the Community Development department gave a presenta�on, with members from the Planning, Economic Development, Public Works and Engineering departments, and the San Carlos Police Bureau in atendance to answer ques�ons.

Considering transforma�on of the 700 block of Laurel, along with the poten�al to modify other blocks and streets in and around the downtown area, City staff posed the following ques�ons to business atendees:
• What can the City do to support businesses in the mean�me [while the Downtown Specific Plan is developed/implemented]?
• What should the priori�es be?
• What is most important for the success of your business? • What is most important to employees?
Summary
At the mee�ng, top priori�es were shared by atendees from the business community. Concerns that were strongly emphasized included:
• The different blocks should have the same economic opportunity as the 700 block of Laurel; improve all the blocks. The 700 block seems to be most favored, while the 600 block is struggling.
• Parklets block visibility to shopfronts, take up parking; some parklets are taking up much more space than others; no standards for parklets; parklet costs are not equitable and are not based on square footage of space; e.g. “I have a �ny parklet and I am paying as much as [a much larger restaurant] is paying - how does that makes sense?”; remove parklets that are not being used. • Is the City going to con�nue to allow parklets? They were meant to be temporary during the pandemic, which is now over. If the City wants to support businesses, take the parklets away now.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1966
• There are no clear signs to show where patrons can park; the City needs to improve the placement of signage.
• Place more bicycle racks where they are needed and visible for safety so they are not stolen or vandalized.

Picture of Downtown Focus Group Meeting
Comments by Themes:

Equity concerns around closure of 700 block
• The par�cipants strongly felt that the different blocks should have the same economic opportunity.
• They found it unfair that businesses on the 700 block are booming and other blocks have become invisible as people don’t think there is more to downtown than the 700 block. • This is seen as a “huge equity issue”. Street closure will affect some businesses in detrimental way than others.
• Economic Benefits of Plaza: It was observed that the economic benefits of the plaza predominantly favor restaurants over retailers, par�cularly with regards to outdoor dining. The sugges�on was made to explore the possibility of funding the plaza implementa�on costs from those who benefit the most.
• Case Studies: The idea of examining case studies from other ci�es that have created public plazas was proposed to understand the economic effects such ini�a�ves have had. • Suppor�ng Data for Closure: The need for data to support the closure of the 700 block vs 600 block was emphasized.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1967
• Objec�ve Data for 700 Block: Ques�ons were raised about the objec�ve data used to determine the preference for the 700 block, as it was considered inequitable. • 600 Block vs. 700 Block: There were conflic�ng opinions regarding the closure of the 600 block and the favori�sm shown towards the 700 block. The business owners expressed disapproval of street closure, but the reasons behind this sen�ment were not clear. • Space Inequality: It was pointed out that even if the sidewalks on the 600 block were expanded, there would s�ll be a lack of equitable space compared to the 700 block. • Restaurant Feedback: A restaurant owner stated that the non-closure of the 600 block nega�vely affected their business, arguing that the situa�on is not equitable compared to the 700 block.

The owner claimed that their parklet costs were similar to those of the Town. • It was noted that businesses didn’t sign up for a downtown with middle block being closed and they are for either closing en�re downtown and making it walkable or have dedicated walking spaces.
• The par�cipants wanted to see a plan to make opportuni�es equitable for all businesses as closing only 700 block has created a huge inequality. There was also a need expressed to see economic case for closure and its projected impact.

Parking
• The 600 block expressed concerns about losing parking, emphasizing that it is their biggest priority.
• It was noted that parking signage doesn’t work and if there is a way for people who park in business spots to get ticketed? There is no enforcement right now. (A City staff recommended more signage can be added in the meanwhile.)
• It was noted that due to lack of signage many people don’t know there is a parking structure and where to find parking. (A City staff noted that wayfinding signage is underway). • Biking racks were discussed as a solu�on for bike parking in the downtown area. • As an immediate need, bike parking was requested near yoga center. Bikes get stolen from the garage, so closer open bike parking is desirable.

Parklets
• The perceived lack of equity between the 600 and 700 blocks was raised due to differences in parklet opportuni�es.
• It was noted that recently a business took down their parklets, which posi�vely affected businesses around.
• It was suggested to have parklets not block the views of other businesses, such as the curtains. • It was suggested to change parklets so it's waist high and it's a pleasant view. (Redwood City’s parklet program and Europe shared as an example)
• An owner noted that his parklet (which doesn’t have a structure built) was hit in the middle when someone drove into it. There needs to be consideration of safety in street/parklet design. • A business owner expressed their inten�on to remove the parklet if mandated by the city, highligh�ng the need to consider how the closure of the 700 plaza would impact neighboring

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1968
businesses. Another noted they put roof as they are “required” to and no one sits when weather is not good anyways.
• It was suggested by some to get the parklets off right now as quick fix as they are blocking opportunity for other businesses.

Events and local businesses
• It was noted that city events involving business par�cipa�on (from outside) have incurred costs for local businesses.
• The opinion was expressed that community events should not include pop-up restaurants, such as food trucks or if they do, only limit par�cipa�on to local businesses.

Sales Tax Revenue and indicators of business performance • Sales Tax and Increased Cost of Goods: It was noted that the increase in the sales tax mandate along with rising costs of goods has skewed the data towards an upward trajectory. This factor needs to be taken into considera�on when analyzing the data. Some par�cipants wanted to see the split of retail vs restaurants in sales tax.
• Sales tax data was not perceived as a good representa�on of the upward trend since taxes have increased and cost is higher. Profit might be a beter indicator which business noted is down. • Comparing to 2018 and 2019, a business owner, men�oned that comparing current growth to 2018 and 2019 is not a milestone. The goal is to surpass the growth achieved during those years.

Addi�onal Comments
• A business owner felt that those who filled out the survey do not have a good representa�on of the community - “What about people who live in Crestview, have they filled out the survey?” “Why do community members outside of the downtown get to decide what happens here?” Downtown Business Survey
A Downtown Business survey was launched on May 11, 2023 to learn more about business opera�ons, parking and transporta�on priori�es, customer considera�ons, employee needs, and business preferences. City is hoping to receive a robust feedback from the survey to inform the downtown plan.

Attachments

1. Door to Door outreach tracking sheets

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1969
Pictures of Downtown Focus Group Meeting

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1970
Attachment 1
Door to Door outreach tracking sheets

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1971

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1972

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1978

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1980

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1981

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1982

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1983
DOWNTOWN SAN CARLOS: Business Outreach Sheet
San Carlos Ave (north)
Staff Person Name: Akanksha Chopra
Business Name Business Address (street
number, street name)
Outreach status (Y/N) Notes
King Chuan 1188 San Carlos Ave,
San Carlos, CA 94070
Y Went in 2 �mes.

Manager not
available. Staff was
busy and only
collected flyer.

UPS 1180 San Carlos Ave,
San Carlos, CA 94070
Y Spoke to
owner/manager.

Carlos Ligh�ng company 1156 San Carlos Ave,
San Carlos, CA 94070
Y Spoke to staff and
dropped flyer
Special FX Salon 1178 San Carlos Ave,
San Carlos, CA 94070
Y Spoke to staff and
dropped flyer
Tamari Cuisine 1152 San Carlos Ave,
San Carlos, CA 94070
N (dropped flyer) Closed
Toot Sweet Frozen
Yogurt
1148 San Carlos Ave,
San Carlos, CA 94070
Y Spoke to owner.

Dropped flyer.

Coldwell Banker realty San Carlos Ave, San
Carlos, CA 94070
Y Manager not
available. Dropped
flyer with staff.

I’m Faded Barbershop 548A El Camino Real,
San Carlos, CA 94070
N (dropped flyer) Door closed
Q INUB El Camino Real N (dropped flyer) Door closed
Paloma Salon 538 El Camino Real
suite a, San Carlos, CA
94070
N (dropped flyer) Door closed
EmKay Diamonds El Camino Real N Refused to talk or
take flyer.

Lawyers Title El Camino Real Y Spoke to staff and
dropped flyer
Circle K sta�on 500 El Camino Real, San
Carlos, CA 94070
Y Spoke to manager
and dropped flyer
VCA Animal Hospital 501 Laurel St, San
Carlos, CA 94070
Y Spoke to staff and
dropped flyer
Cal West Realty 569 Laurel St, San
Carlos, CA 94070
Y Spoke to staff and
dropped flyer.

Rosai’s Fine Jewelry 577 Laurel St, San
Carlos, CA 94070
N (dropped flyer) Door closed

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1984
DOWNTOWN SAN CARLOS: Business Outreach Sheet
Staff Person Name: Adam Aronson
Business Name Business Address (street
number, street name)
Outreach status (Y/N) Notes
Holly Hill 701 Laurel St Y
Therapy Stores Inc 705 Laurel St Y
Tea Hut 711 Laurel St Y
Dona’s Hallmark 717 Laurel St Y
Taurus Steakhouse 727 Laurel St N No mailbox
Laurel Street Arts 733 Laurel St N Le� flyer in mailbox Bow Wow Meow 737 Laurel St Y
Seiya Restaurant 741 Laurel St N No mailbox
The Cobbler 745 Laurel St N Le� flyer in mailbox
Guy’s Barbershop 747 Laurel St N Le� flyer in mailbox
Blind Tasting 749 Laurel St N
Mama Coco 753 Laurel St Y
Faith & Spirits 765 Laurel St N Le� flyer in mailbox
Spasso 769 Laurel St Y
Stamp Bistro Bar & Grill 773 Laurel St Y
Pranzi Italian Bistro 777 Laurel St Y
Kids Company 781 Laurel St N Le� flyer in mailbox
Nordic Nest 781 Laurel St N Le� flyer in mailbox
Reading Bug 785 Laurel St N Le� flyer in mailbox

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1985
Business Name Business Address (street
number, street name)
Outreach status (Y/N) Notes
Union Bank 799 Laurel St Y
Gilman Dental 796 El Camino N Le� flyer in mailbox
Pizza Guys 796 El Camino Suite E Y
PNC Bank 796 El Camino Suite C Y
Skin Care by Sally 796 El Camino Suite A N
Mountain Mike’s 774 El Camino Y
Leslie’s 770 El Camino Y
Budget Auto Glass 760 El Camino Y
Allstate Insurance 742 El Camino Y
Subway 744 El Camino Y
Rita’s 740 El Camino Y
San Carlos Eye Care 750 El Camino Y
Bynder 734 El Camino N
VCA San Carlos 718 El Camino Y
Dumas Real Estate 700 El Camino Y
Veritas Homes 1132 Cherry Y

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1986
Ideation Workshop (Virtual)
December 6, 2023

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1987
Downtown Specific Plan Ideation Workshop (Virtual)
December 6, 2023

The City staff and Consultant Team WRT held an Ideation Virtual Workshop on December 6 to discuss and consider new ideas that can transform our downtown.

The community shared their inputs on Public Space Design (the future of Laurel Street), Program Mix, and Circulation and Access.

Meeting Materials:
• Presentation
• Community Feedback Summary
• Chat Transcript 1
• Chat Transcript 2
May 24,

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1988

SAN CARLOS DOWNTOWN SPECIFIC PLAN

DOWNTOWN IDEATION WORKSHOP
DECEMBER 06, 2023

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1989

WELCOME
Adam Rak
Mayor
Welcome
Adam Rak
Mayor

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1990
City of San Carlos Team
Al Savay
Community & Economic
Development Director
Lisa Porras
Planning Manager
Megan Wooley-Ousdahl
Project Manager,
Senior Planner
4 NORTHEAST AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN Northeast Area Specific Plan | Community Workshop 1

CITY OF SAN CARLOS TEAM
Sajuti Haque
Senior Management
Lisa Porras
Planning Manager
Al Savay
Community & Economic
Development Director
f San Carlos Team
Al Savay
munity & Economic
velopment Director
Lisa Porras
Planning Manager
Megan Wooley-Ousdahl
Project Manager,
Senior Planner
4 AREA
ea Specific Plan | Community Workshop 1
Linnet Kwok
Senior
Administrative Clerk
Akanksha Chopra
Associate Planner

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1991
Matt Taecker
Sr. Planner /Urban Designer
Zoning Update +
Development Standards
James Stickley
Princi pal-in-Cha rge
Public Realm Design Lead
Poonam Narkar
Project Manager /
Sr. Ur ban Designer
Engagement Lead
C
K arly K aufman
Rincon Consulting/
Environmental
Brian Canepa
W-TRANS / Mobility, Circulation
& Parking Strategy, & Downtown
Traffic Operations Study

MEET OUR TEAM
David Greensfelder
Gr eenfel der Commer ci al
Real Estate /
Retail Market Strategy
Robert S tevens
CSW|ST2 / Civil
Engineering & Infrastructure

PRIME CONSULTANT

PLANNING / URBAN DESIGN / PLACEMAKING

SUBCONSULTANT TEAM
David Shiver
BAE/
Financing & Funding Strategy
R ohit Tak
Project Urban Designer
Ashwin Nambiar
Urban Designer
Can Liu
Landscape Designer
Federico Messa
Sys temati c a /
Matt Taecker Mobility & Circulation Strategy
Sr. Planner /Urban Designer
Zoning Update +
Development Standards
James Stickley
Principal-in-Charge
Public Realm Design Lead
Poonam Narkar
Project Manager /
Sr. Urban Designer
Engagement Lead
C
Karly Kaufman
Rincon Consulting/
Environmental
Brian Canepa
W-TRANS / Mobility, Circulation
& Parking Strategy

MEET OUR TEAM
David Greensfelder
Greenfelder Commercial
Real Estate /
Retail Market Strategy
Robert Stevens
CSW|ST2 / Civil
Engineering & Infrastructure

PRIME CONSULTANT

PLANNING / URBAN DESIGN / PLACEMAKING

SUBCONSULTANT TEAM
David Shiver
BAE/
Financing & Funding Strategy
Under separate
contract with the City
Rohit Tak
Project Urban Designer
Ashwin Nambiar
Urban Designer
Can Liu
Landscape Designer

CONSULTANT TEAM
Matt Taecker
Sr. Planner /Urban Designer
Zoning Update +
Development Standards
James Stickley
Princi pal-in-Cha rge
Public Realm Design Lead
Poonam Narkar
Project Manager /
Sr. Ur ban Designer
Engagement Lead
C

MEET OUR TEAM
David Greensfelder
Gr eenfel der Commer ci al
Real Estate /
Retail Market Strategy

PRIME CONSULTANT

PLANNING / URBAN DESIGN / PLACEMAKING

SUBCONSULTANT TEAM
David Shiver
BAE/
Financing & Funding Strategy
Federico Messa
Sys temati c a /
Mobility & Circulation Strategy

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1992
AGENDA
0 1 WELCOME & INTRODUCTIONS
02 ABOUT THE WRT TEAM
03 PROJECT SCOPE
04 SCHEDULE
05 PROJECT GOALS
06 ISSUES, ASSETS AND

OPPORTUNITIES
AGENDA
• Presentation
• Breakout Group Discussions
• Report Back
• Next Steps

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1993

REGIONAL AND LOCAL
CONTEXT • Downtown San Carlos plays an important role
in the local setting, offering a quaint main street
environment for the San Carlos community and
a local destination for neighboring communities.
• Proximity to the US-101 interchanges at Holly
Street and Brittan Avenue, and the Caltrain
Station are key assets that provide easy access
and connectivity to and from downtown.
• Laurel street serves as the main spine and hub
of activity while El Camino Real forms an edge
to downtown offering significant potential for
enhancement.
• Close proximity and easy connectivity to
the Civic Center is an added asset with an
opportunity to expand the identity of the
downtown district by integrating social and
civic activities.

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1994

HOW DO WE ACCESS
THE DOWNTOWN?

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1995

WHAT’S IN OUR
DOWNTOWN TODAY?
Source: City of San Carlos

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1996

HOW IS DOWNTOWN SAN CARLOS DOING?
Working Well
• Resident satisfaction with 700 block of Laurel Street • New and different setting
• Functioning as community gathering place
• Food and beverage establishments flourishing
Needs Improvement
• Peninsula downtowns are highly competitive and San Carlos falls short in comparison to neighboring towns on atmosphere & offerings • Sidewalks & amenities detract from visitor experience • Parklet “culture” favors food & beverages and disadvantages other retail • Parklet design detracts from downtown quality
• Downtown circulation post-closure is unclear
• Goods retailers experiencing drop in sales and staff layoffs • F&B customer parking in off-street lots reduce parking turnover needed for customers of retailers offering goods and services

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1997

Castro Street, Mountain View, CA
• 3-blocks on Castro Street being converted to a pedestrian mall on interim basis.
• Lots of food and beverages businesses some services
• Some attempt at uniformity with outdoor seating and
amenities, but unevenly successful.
• Caltrain adjacent, good public parking parallel to the street. • Pedestrian paths through each block to access parking. • The cross streets are 2-way cross streets so circulation around the closed blocks is more straightforward.
• Quite a bit of vacancy
Burlingame Avenue, Burlingame, CA
• 5-blocks corridor and some side streets.
• No street closures, but the traffic calming is achieved by the density and there is easy jay walking.
• Well-proportioned sidewalks with sidewalk amenities
• Caltrain proximity. Connection to train station is good but not a demand driver.
• District parking in lots behind stores.
• Results:
» Low storefront vacancy today
» Preserved and grew sales tax revenue
» High satisfaction among residents and businesses
Pearl Street, Boulder, CO
• 4-blocks long pedestrian mall of 14 blocks long
commercial portion of Pearl Street.
• Mall open 24 hours, but businesses have their own
operating hours.
• A variety of events with different sponsors are offered in the Downtown area. Game days are big!
• Issues:
» High cost to operate.
» Lower retail business vitality than areas with vehicle access. » Issue #3 – A variety of retail/equity issues.
(IN PROCESS)
HOW ARE OTHER CITIES DOING?

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1998

WHAT IS THE VISION FOR
DOWNTOWN SAN CARLOS?

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 1999

DRAFT VISION STATEMENT
Downtown is the heart of San Carlos that
provides a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly, safe,
charming, futuristic, and accessible destination for
the community. It is a place for celebration and
gathering that offers diverse and authentic
experiences through a draw of food, retail,
services, art and music in a visually attractive
environment for the growing community. Downtown
is an inclusive place with easy access for all,
opportunities for housing and businesses of
all types, and inviting spaces for all users.

Downtown San Carlos is a sustainable district,
with landscape that supports ecological and
community health & well-being.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2000

DRAFT GUIDING PRINCIPLES

VISION GUIDING PRINCIPLES

DRAFT DRAFT
Downtown is the heart of San
Carlos that provides a vibrant,
pedestrian-friendly, safe, charming,
futuristic, and accessible
destination for the community.

It is a place for celebration and
gathering that offers diverse and
authentic experiences through
a draw of food, retail, services,
art and music in a visually
attractive environment for the
growing community. Downtown
is an inclusive place with easy
access for all, opportunities for
housing and businesses of all
types, and inviting spaces for all
users. Downtown San Carlos is a
sustainable district, with landscape
that supports ecological and
community health & well-being.

1. Y
EQUITY + RESILIENCE

PLACEMAKING
& IDENTITY

DOWNTOWN

VIBRANCY

MOBILITY &

CONNECTIVITY
The Plan Area should strive to be
an equitable place offering social,
economic, housing and recreational
opportunities at varying levels of
affordability for all users along with
being resilient to address evolving
climate adaptation needs.

The Downtown Specific Plan
should strive to create distinctive
character and identity unique to
San Carlos’ culture, history, and
context; defined by the physical
form and experience of the
downtown.

The Downtown should achieve a level
of vibrancy and vitality that consistently
attracts users and shoppers through
enhancement of local businesses and
diverse programming, in a setting that is
distinctive, safe, and attractive.

Downtown should have a balance
of mobility modes that emphasizes
pedestrian, bicycle, and public
transit circulation along with
effective parking management
strategies, to support a socially
vibrant pedestrian-oriented
environment and to minimize autodependence to access downtown.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2001

PLACEMAKING
+ IDENTITY

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2002

DOWNTOWN

VIBRANCY

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2003

MOBILITY &

CONNECTIVITY

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2004

PUBLIC REALM DESIGN

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2005

CONCEPT 1
“THE PROMENADE”

CONCEPT ALTERNATIVES
CONCEPT 2
“THE GARDENS”
700 BLOCK - LAUREL STREET BETWEEN CHERRY STREET AND OLIVE STREET

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2006

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK
CONCEPT 1
“THE PROMENADE”
El Camino Real
Laurel Street
Cherry St
Olive St

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2007

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK CONCEPT 1
“THE PROMENADE”

PUBLIC ART/ BIKE PARKING

BOSQUE AND STORM WATER MANAGEMENT SHADE AND SEATING

CENTRAL PROMENADE
2 4
5 3 OUTDOOR DINING
2 3
4 5
1 6

PEDESTRIAN PATHS
1 PLANTER BOXES FOR STREET CLOSURE
6 9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2008

CONCERT SPACE

FOUNTAIN/ JETS AT THE PLAZA

BOSQUE PLAY/ PROGRAMMED SPACE

COMMUNITY EVENTS

HARRINGTON PARK EVENT LAWN
1 1 AMPHITHEATER
2 2
4 3
5 3
5 4

CENTRAL PLAZA

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK CONCEPT 1
“THE PROMENADE”

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2009

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK
CONCEPT 2
“THE GARDENS”
El Camino Real
Laurel Street
Cherry St
Olive St

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2010

RAIN GARDEN

PLAY SCULPTURE

CHESS BOARD

THE GARDENS
1 PLANTER BOXES FOR STREET CLOSURE
2 4
3 OUTDOOR DINING CORNHOLE
2 3
4 4
1 PROGRAM OPPORTUNITIES

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK CONCEPT 2
“THE GARDENS”

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2011

OUTDOOR SEATING

PERFORMANCE/ MOVIE OUTDOOR SEATING

PUBLIC ART

LINEAR WATER FEATURE

COMMUNITY EVENTS

HARRINGTON PARK EVENT PLAZA

CENTRAL PLAZA
1 1 SHADE
2 2
6 5
4 3
3 4
5 6

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK CONCEPT 2
“THE GARDENS”

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2012

LAUREL STREET
600 BLOCK

CONCEPT
El Camino Real
Laurel Street
San Carlos Avenue
Cherry St

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2013

BIOSWALE

OUTDOOR DINING

INTERACTIVE ELEMENT

WHEELER GATEWAY
1 EXPANDED SIDEWALK
2 4
6 5
PLANTER BOXES 3 SEATING
2 3
4 5
6 1

LAUREL STREET
600 BLOCK CONCEPT

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2014

INTERACTIVE ELEMENT

OUTDOOR DINING

MULTI-PURPOSE SPACE -

POP-UP CAFE/ FOOD TRUCK/ BEER GARDEN

EXPANDED PLAZA
4 3
2 FOOD HALL
1 2
1 3
5 5 PUBLIC RESTROOMS
4 MULTI-PURPOSE SPACE -
PERFORMANCE AREA 4

LAUREL STREET
600 BLOCK WHEELER PLAZA CONCEPT

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2015

SCHEMATIC PLAN CROSS SECTION

LAUREL STREET
CONCEPT 1 - PARELLEL BOTH SIDES
600 & 800 BLOCKS
(LOOKING NORTH)
(LOOKING NORTH)

EXISTING
(LOOKING NORTH)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2016

LAUREL STREET
CONCEPT 2 - PARALLEL, ALTERNATING SIDES
600 & 800 BLOCK

SCHEMATIC PLAN
(LOOKING NORTH)

CROSS SECTION
(LOOKING NORTH)

EXISTING
(LOOKING NORTH)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2017

SAN CARLOS AVENUE

PRIMARY GATEWAY TO

DOWNTOWN
1100 & 1200 BLOCKS
(LOOKING EAST)

EXISTING

PROPOSED
(LOOKING EAST)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2018

EL CAMINO REAL

EXISTING

PROPOSED
(LOOKING NORTH)
(LOOKING NORTH)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2019

PEDESTRIAN MALL EXAMPLES

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2020

EXAMPLE 1: PEDESTRIAN MALL | ITHACA COMMONS, NY

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2021

EXAMPLE 2: PEDESTRIAN MALL | PEARL STREET, BOULDER, CO

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2022

EXAMPLE 3: PEDESTRIAN MALL | CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2023

EXAMPLE 4: CASTRO STREET, MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2024

EXAMPLE 5: BURLINGAME AVENUE, BURLINGAME, CA

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2025

PROGRAM IDEAS FROM OTHER CITIES

FORT COLLINS SANTANA ROW

OCTAVIA BOULEVARD OCTAVIA BOULEVARD

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2026

HOW CAN CIRCULATION EFFECTIVELY
SUPPORT THE VISION?

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2027

HOW DO WE MOVE
AROUND TOWN?

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2028

HOW DO WE ACCESS
THE DOWNTOWN?

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2029

HOW DO WE USE LAUREL
STREET DURING EVENTS?
SCENARIO 1:
700 BLOCK PEDESTRIAN PLAZA
SCENARIO 2:
700 BLOCK PEDESTRIAN PLAZA +

TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF LAUREL
STREET
SCENARIO 3:
700 BLOCK PEDESTRIAN PLAZA +

TEMPORARY PEDESTRIANIZATION

OF LAUREL STREET & SAN

CARLOS AVENUE
600 700 800
600 700 800
600 700 800

EVENT DATE/DAY TIME ATTENDANCE LOCATION
San Carlos
Farmers'
Market
Every Sunday,
Year-round

9.00 AM -

1.00 PM 2,000 Laurel Street
Art & Wine
Fair Annual, Month of
October

10.00 AM -

6.00 PM 50,000 Laurel Street
Goblin Walk Friday, October
27, 2023

4.00 PM -

5.30 PM 2,000 Laurel Street
Night of
Holiday
Lights
Annual, Month of
December
5:00 PM -
8:30 PM 3,000 Laurel Street
Block Party July/ August
2024

4.00 PM -

8.00 PM 2,000 Laurel Street
Laurel Street 700 Block Closure/ Pedestrian Plaza
Temporary Pedestrianization Scenarios

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2030

OPTION 2

ELM AS AN ARTERIAL
OPTION 3B

ONE WAY LOOP
OPTION 3A

SWING LANES
OPTION 1

EVEN DISTRIBUTION

POTENTIAL CIRCULATION

SCENARIOS

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2031

OPTION 1

EVEN DISTRIBUTION

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2032

OPTION 2

ELM AS AN ARTERIAL

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2033

OPTION 3A

SWING LANES

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2034

OPTION 3B

ONE-WAY LOOP

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2035

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2036

BREAKOUT DISCUSSION

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2037

REPORT BACK

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2038

NEXT STEPS
• In Person Ideation Workshop - Saturday, December 9th, 2023. • Post Event Survey - Refer Project Website.
• Summary Report.
• Planning and Transportation Comission & City Council Study Sessions.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2039

THANK YOU

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2040

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2041

EXISTING

PROPOSED

ARROYO AVENUE
(LOOKING EAST)
(LOOKING EAST)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2042

EXISTING

PROPOSED

BRITTAN AVENUE
(LOOKING EAST)
(LOOKING EAST)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2043

59 San Carlos Downtown Specific Plan – Transport and mobility study – December, 2023

SAN CARLOS RESIDENT

SAN CARLOS STUDENT SAN CARLOS INVESTOR SAN CARLOS RELATIVE SAN CARLOS WORKER SAN CARLOS THERAPIST SAN CARLOS MOM SAN CARLOS INFLUENCER

Residents move mainly by
private modes, if available, or
with active modes. Routinary
and occasional movements
during the day are expected.

Visitors move mainly by on-demand
shared and private modes (e.g. taxi)
from the hotel with movements
during daytime for specific business
and visiting errands.

Commuters, often living in adjacent
cities, take trips by scheduled PT or
if available with private modes.

Peak movements are seen during
morning and afternoon.

Casual downtown goers, who may
frequent the area in certain occasions,
move mainly by private modes.

Common movements are foreseen
during afternoon and evening.

The user journey analysis is tailored on the needs of each user group.

People
move by:

USER JOURNEYS

USER PROFILES
60 S
ClDtSifiPlTt d bilittdDb2023
User Journey
User Profiling
The user journey analysis is tailored on the needs of each user group.

People
move by:

SAN FRANCISCO TAILOR

LIVING IN SUNNYVALE

SAN JOSÉ WORKER LIVING

IN SAN FRANSISCO

SAN CARLOS RESEARCHER SAN CARLOS SCIENCE NERD SAN CARLOS PARTY GIRLS SAN CARLOS DJ

Through commuters, that lives
outside San Carlos and
commute through San Carlos
every day to reach their work.

Peak movements are seen
during morning and evening.

East-side innovation district
employees take trips to downtown
for happy hour, dinner or lunch,
Occasional movements during
lunchtime or early afternoon.

Nighttime visitors, living in the
suburbs of the region or
neighboring downtown, take trips
by private modes or family kiss &
ride. Peak movements are seen
during the evening and nighttime.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2044

61 San Carlos Downtown Specific Plan – Transport and mobility study – December, 2023 User Journey
San Carlos Resident

HOME CHURCH WALKING STORE WALKING HOME
• Grandmother and pensioner living with
her daughter, son-in-law and grandkids
• Active church member
• Access is mainly by scheduled PT or if
available, private modes
• Occasional movements in the morning for
walks and early market shopping
Mary, 73
San Carlos Elderly Resident

WALKING MORNING
COFFEE

WALKING
5 min
6 min
2 min

PEDESTRIAN CROSSING
12 min to walk back home
1 2
3 4
1 2 3 4
Less cars would mean less smog
Many cars are polluting
San Carlos Av
More pedestrian space would make this
more comfortable to walk
Sidewalk is narrow
and full of people

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2045

65 San Carlos Downtown Specific Plan – Transport and mobility study – December, 2023 User Journey
San Carlos Commuter

San José
9 min

HOME TRAVELLING TRAIN STATION
(CALTRAIN)

WALKING WORKPLACE

WALKING WORKOUT WALKING TRAVELLING
(CALTRAIN)
HOME
Diego, 25
San Carlos Tech Worker
• San José-based software engineer working
in finance
• Gym buff
• Trips by scheduled PT or occasionally with
private cars
• Peaks during the morning and afternoon to
reach and leave the workplace
9 min 9 min 6 min walk to the station

PEDESTRIAN CROSSING

TRAIN STATION
1 3
1 2
2 3
More pedestrian friendly environment
would mean more safety and comfort for
daily routines
Most of his route is filled with
cars and parking space

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2046

67 San Carlos Downtown Specific Plan – Transport and mobility study – December, 2023 DINNER
User Journey
San Carlos Casual Downtown Shopper

HOME PRIVATE CAR PARKING

WALKING WALKING PARKING

PRIVATE CAR HOME SHOPPING

• Single mom with a kid and a dog, working in
full remote
• Access is mainly by private modes, or
occasionally, with scheduled PT
• Occasional movements in the afternoon for
quick grocery shopping and early dinner
Sarah, 35
San Carlos Working mom

PEDESTRIAN CROSSING

WALKING
3 3
1 1 2
2 Less cars would mean more security and
safety for kids playing and running
The street has narrow sidewalk
and cars still using the lanes
Nothing would really change on this, except for more
pedestrian area after leaving the car
Easy and quick to access
parking area

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2047

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2048

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2049

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2050

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2051
00:49:56 Solomon Liu: Reacted to "Great work ruining t..." with 00:50:07 Arley Lewis: Reacted to "Great work ruining t..." with 00:50:13 [email protected]: Reacted to "Great work ruining t..." with 00:52:10 Solomon Liu: Reacted to "The pace at which al..." with 00:52:50 David Tuzman: Reacted to "The pace at which al..." with 00:53:02 Mark Bauhaus: Love the change proposals! As to access, many walk or bike or ebike. Hopefully more in future. Need to ALWAYS include walk/bike in access discussions to make it easier/safer.
00:53:09 Solomon Liu: Reacted to "Love the change prop..." with 00:53:12 David Tuzman: Reacted to "Love the change prop..." with 00:53:15 Arley Lewis: Reacted to "Love the change prop..." with 00:54:11 _: Why do my comments keep getting erased?
00:55:01 _: Mountain view is unrecognizabe from what it was merely a decade ago.
00:55:08 [email protected]: Replying to "Why do my comments k..." Seems like you should identify yourself.
00:55:18 _: Seems like I have the first amendment
00:56:40 Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos: Hello everyone, thank you so much for joining today. We really hope everyone in the chat will be respectful to each other. If there are any inappropriate comments, they will be deleted.
00:59:32 Kristen Clements: Reacted to "Hello everyone, than..." with 01:00:58 Solomon Liu: Small nitpick — car traffic is not a requirement for a “street”; a promenade is still a “street”
01:01:28 james:Reacted to "Small nitpick — c..." with
01:02:16 David Tuzman: big fan of seating + shade all along the promenade 01:02:36 Arley Lewis: Reacted to "Hello everyone, than..." with

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2052
01:02:42 Solomon Liu: Reacted to "big fan of seating +..." with 01:03:42 Jon Rose: Fountains are nice but probably not wise given we are likely to experience long periods of drought in the future
01:03:57 Kristen Clements: Reacted to "big fan of seating +..." with 01:05:24 Jon Rose: both these pedestrian-oriented designed seem inhospitable to businesses that don't serve food.
01:06:30 Sonia Elkes: Reacted to "Love the change prop…" with 01:07:01 Aaron: The "groves" of trees in the garden concept allow for having different uses and different activities in each grove - yard games in one, a splash pad in another, etc. 01:08:28 Aaron:Replying to "both these pedestria..."
Certainly I could see shopping businesses benefit as well - for example the Reading Bug hosts a book reading in front of the store.
01:08:50 Solomon Liu: Replying to "both these pedestria..." I think walking is conducive to all sorts of shopping; after all, malls are nice because you can just walk from one shop to the next
01:09:03 David Tuzman: Reacted to "I think walking is c..." with 01:09:09 David Tuzman: Reacted to "Certainly I could se..." with 01:09:11 Arley Lewis: Reacted to "I think walking is c..." with 01:09:20 Arley Lewis: Reacted to "Certainly I could se..." with 01:09:52 Solomon Liu: Very interesting traffic calming idea! 01:10:24 Aaron:Reacted to "Very interesting tra..." with 01:10:42 Mark Bauhaus: Why not make 800 block one way if cars are allowed at all? And why is this only about cars and walkers. No bikes? 01:10:46 Sonia Elkes: Reacted to "big fan of seating +…" with 01:11:01 David Tuzman: Reacted to "Why not make 800 blo..." with

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2053
01:11:07 [email protected]: Reacted to "Why not make 800 blo..." with 01:11:26 Sonia Elkes: Reacted to "Why not make 800 blo…" with 01:11:54 David Tuzman: Replying to "Why not make 800 blo..." the 700 block concepts both listed “biking” throughout
01:12:04 Sabina Mora, City of San Carlos Senior Planner: Reacted to "Why not make 800 blo..." with
01:12:04 Michael Tundres: Why are the trees taller and greener in the second image
01:12:55 Mark Bauhaus: Replying to "Why not make 800 blo…" Yes thanks. I was referring to 600/800 biking which needs to be safe for bikes and easy including preferred parking.
01:12:56 Michael Tundres: Is it to downplay the additonal four stories stackde on top of the buildings?
01:13:01 Solomon Liu: Is there an overhead view?
01:13:05 David Tuzman: Replying to "Why not make 800 blo..." which, I hope means that there will either be a dedicated path; or fully mixed use ped+bike (unlike today where biking is technically not allowed on 700) 01:13:14 David Tuzman: Reacted to "Yes thanks. I was r..." with 01:13:16 [email protected]: Replying to "Why not make 800 blo..." Also the one-way street idea.
01:13:41 Mark Bauhaus: Reacted to "which, I hope means …" with 01:14:25 Michael Tundres: Retail crime went up quite a bit there 01:16:01 Solomon Liu: Would appreciate more focus on Caltrain and ECR bus 01:16:26 David Tuzman: Reacted to "Would appreciate mor..." with

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2054
01:16:53 Aaron:Reacted to "Would appreciate mor..." with 01:17:27 Michael Tundres: Density is everything. If you keep building more homes and business while not adding additonal roads you will get result of congestion, frustration and ultimately erosion of society over time.
01:18:09 Jon Rose: I agree with Michael. Traffic is already problematic during special events.
01:18:50 David Tuzman: good reason to optimize our cities to make non-car travel as attractive as possible
01:19:30 Solomon Liu: Replying to "Density is everythin..." As you say, density is everything, and cars are an extremely sparse method of transportation. Making our streets more friendly to walkers, bikers, and personal mobility devices is key to moving more people
01:19:44 Kristen Clements: Reacted to "As you say, density ..." with 01:19:54 Solomon Liu: Reacted to "good reason to optim..." with 01:20:20 Aaron:Have you looked at how to make the existing parking areas "better"? More spots, more availability, better traffic flow, cleaner, better lit, etc? 01:22:09 Solomon Liu: Noticing the loop is all left turns 01:22:31 [email protected]: San Carlos could really distinguish itself and retain charm if we favor independent businesses (not chains) in his re-imagined downtown.
01:22:51 Mark Bauhaus: The one way ideas are really interesting. But add bikes.

Bikes are currently jammed into cars on San Carlos Av from Elm to train station and vice versa. Treacherous at best! Attract non cars too!!
01:23:03 Solomon Liu: Reacted to "The one way ideas ar..." with 01:23:08 Adria Olender: Reacted to "The one way ideas ar..." with 01:23:14 Arley Lewis: Reacted to "The one way ideas ar..." with 01:23:27 Tara Berta: I do think you need more for teens 13-17 … park isn’t for everyone, yc is young, and all they do is spend $

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2055
01:54:56 [email protected]: I didn't get to mention it in the breakout, but San Carlos should choose trees for downtown very thoughtfully. It's not the place to pinch pennies!
01:55:35 Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos: There will be coffee and snacks! 01:55:43 Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos: We are looking forward to seeing you all! 01:55:45 David Tuzman: Reacted to "There will be coffee..." with 01:55:46 Aaron:Replying to "I do think you need ..."
what is yc? Generally, this is what I see on NextDoor!
01:55:56 Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos: Right next to Peets! 01:55:57 Aaron:Reacted to "I didn't get to ment..." with 01:56:14 Kristen Clements: The former Harvest store
01:56:17 Mark & Caroline Bauhaus: Love the pictures of greenery, trees, water features, gathering areas, event spaces. All great. Maybe a toilet for the new town living room too?
01:56:19 Sonia Elkes: Reacted to "I didn't get to ment…" with 01:56:30 Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sancarlos-downtown-ideation-workshop-in-person-tickets-751829280617?aff=oddtdtcreator 01:56:50 Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos: Please RSVP here for the in-person meeting on Saturday
01:56:56 Kristen Clements: Reacted to "There will be coffee..." with 01:57:03 David Tuzman: Replying to "Love the pictures of..." or an agreement with businesses to allow public access to their facilities 01:59:31 Solomon Liu: Thanks to City Staff and WRT!
01:59:40 Mark & Caroline Bauhaus: Reacted to "or an agreement with…" with 02:00:16 Mark & Caroline Bauhaus: Reacted to "I didn't get to ment…" with

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2056
02:00:48 Poonam Narkar | WRT: Members from my group - if I missed anything please add it in the chat. Thank you for your feedback during the discussion 02:01:06 Tom Hausken: Reacted to "Members from my grou..." with 02:02:14 Adria Olender: I love that idea!
02:08:44 [email protected]: Yes, businesses need a strong voice in this plan.

02:10:38 David Tuzman: I forgot to mention… we should improve the crossing safety on all the elm intersections. like elm/cherry which seems like it should be a 4-way stop sign… but it’s only 2 way. similar even down at chestnut/cherry 02:10:52 Linnet Kwok - City of San Carlos: Reacted to "I forgot to mention…..." with

02:11:22 Poonam Narkar | WRT: Reacted to "I forgot to mention…..." with 02:11:29 David Tuzman: Replying to "I forgot to mention…..." the new signs that say “cross traffic does not stop” aren’t very effective 02:11:56 Aaron:I imagine it would be fantastic to dine on Laurel in a small redwood grove, lights strung between the trees. Working with the local business to figure out how and what to implement is an important component of this. If patrons win, businesses win, and vice versa.
02:12:08 Linnet Kwok - City of San Carlos: Replying to "I forgot to mention…..." I live at that corner. Especially non peak hours, cars drive through very fast. 02:12:16 Jennifer Cray:Reacted to "I forgot to mention……" with 02:12:19 Mark & Caroline Bauhaus: Reacted to "I imagine it would b…" with 02:13:24 David Tuzman: yes! parking heirarchy!
02:13:41 Mark & Caroline Bauhaus: Cherry drop off: place for bike parking, ride share pickup, and people drop off at that point…
02:14:44 Arley Lewis: Reacted to "Cherry drop off: pl..." with

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2057
02:14:58 Arley Lewis: Reacted to "I forgot to mention…..." with 02:14:59 Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sancarlos-downtown-ideation-workshop-in-person-tickets-751829280617?aff=oddtdtcreator 02:15:07 Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos: Here it is again! See you all there! 02:15:48 Rohit Tak I WRT: All participants, please use this link to answer two simple questions: https://wrt.typeform.com/to/MUZYkfhr
02:16:22 Aaron:thank you!
02:16:33 Mark & Caroline Bauhaus: Thank you
02:16:34 [email protected]: Thanks!
02:16:37 Adria Olender: Thank you!

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2058
17:34:44 From Lisa Costa Sanders, City of San Carlos to Everyone:
can I share screen as a practice quickly?
17:35:12 From Poonam Narkar | WRT to Everyone:

PLEASE GO AHEAD LISA
17:35:19 From Poonam Narkar | WRT to Everyone:

Sorry for the CAPS
17:36:27 From Lisa Costa Sanders, City of San Carlos to Everyone:
were you able to see the board when I shared screen?
17:36:34 From Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos to Everyone:
yup!
17:36:43 From Lisa Costa Sanders, City of San Carlos to Everyone:
thank you
17:36:44 From Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos to Everyone:

Reacted to "were you able to see..." with
17:51:00 From City of San Carlos, Senior Planner to Breanne Buck | WRT(Direct Message):

Hi Breanne, do you need to make me cohost? Just in case I need to kick someone out? 17:51:52 From City of San Carlos, Senior Planner to Breanne Buck | WRT(Direct Message):
thank you!
17:51:58 From Breanne Buck | WRT to City of San Carlos, Senior Planner(Direct Message):

Reacted to "thank you!" with
18:06:55 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Reacted to "Great work ruining t..." with
18:07:06 From Arley Lewis to Everyone:

Reacted to "Great work ruining t..." with
18:07:12 From [email protected] to Everyone:

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2059
Reacted to "Great work ruining t..." with
18:09:09 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Reacted to "The pace at which al..." with
18:09:49 From David Tuzman to Everyone:

Reacted to "The pace at which al..." with
18:10:01 From Mark Bauhaus to Everyone:

Love the change proposals! As to access, many walk or bike or ebike. Hopefully more in future. Need to ALWAYS include walk/bike in access discussions to make it easier/safer. 18:10:08 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Reacted to "Love the change prop..." with
18:10:11 From David Tuzman to Everyone:

Reacted to "Love the change prop..." with
18:10:14 From Arley Lewis to Everyone:

Reacted to "Love the change prop..." with
18:11:10 From _ to Everyone:

Why do my comments keep getting erased?
18:12:00 From _ to Everyone:

Mountain view is unrecognizabe from what it was merely a decade ago. 18:12:07 From [email protected] to Everyone:

Replying to "Why do my comments k..."
Seems like you should identify yourself.
18:12:17 From _ to Everyone:

Seems like I have the first amendment
18:13:39 From Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos to Everyone:

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2060
Hello everyone, thank you so much for joining today. We really hope everyone in the chat will be respectful to each other. If there are any inappropriate comments, they will be deleted.
18:16:31 From Kristen Clements to Everyone:

Reacted to "Hello everyone, than..." with
18:17:57 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Small nitpick — car traffic is not a requirement for a “street”; a promenade is still a “street” 18:18:27 From james to Everyone:

Reacted to "Small nitpick — c..." with
18:18:27 From Mayor Adam Rak to Everyone:

Reacted to "Small nitpick — car ..." with
18:18:29 From Mayor Adam Rak to Everyone:

Removed a reaction from "Small nitpick — car ..."
18:18:30 From Mayor Adam Rak to Everyone:

Reacted to "Small nitpick — car ..." with
18:18:34 From Mayor Adam Rak to Everyone:

Removed a reaction from "Small nitpick — car ..."
18:19:16 From David Tuzman to Everyone:
big fan of seating + shade all along the promenade
18:19:35 From Arley Lewis to Everyone:

Reacted to "Hello everyone, than..." with
18:19:41 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Reacted to "big fan of seating +..." with
18:20:41 From Jon Rose to Everyone:

Fountains are nice but probably not wise given we are likely to experience long periods of drought in the future

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2061
18:20:56 From Kristen Clements to Everyone:

Reacted to "big fan of seating +..." with
18:22:23 From Jon Rose to Everyone:
both these pedestrian-oriented designed seem inhospitable to businesses that don't serve food.
18:23:29 From Sonia Elkes to Everyone:

Reacted to "Love the change prop…" with
18:24:00 From Aaron to Everyone:

The "groves" of trees in the garden concept allow for having different uses and different activities in each grove - yard games in one, a splash pad in another, etc. 18:25:28 From Aaron to Everyone:

Replying to "both these pedestria..."
Certainly I could see shopping businesses benefit as well - for example the Reading Bug hosts a book reading in front of the store.
18:25:49 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Replying to "both these pedestria..."
I think walking is conducive to all sorts of shopping; after all, malls are nice because you can just walk from one shop to the next
18:26:02 From David Tuzman to Everyone:

Reacted to "I think walking is c..." with
18:26:08 From David Tuzman to Everyone:

Reacted to "Certainly I could se..." with
18:26:10 From Arley Lewis to Everyone:

Reacted to "I think walking is c..." with
18:26:19 From Arley Lewis to Everyone:

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2062
Reacted to "Certainly I could se..." with
18:26:51 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Very interesting traffic calming idea!
18:27:23 From Aaron to Everyone:

Reacted to "Very interesting tra..." with
18:27:41 From Mark Bauhaus to Everyone:

Why not make 800 block one way if cars are allowed at all? And why is this only about cars and walkers. No bikes?
18:27:45 From Sonia Elkes to Everyone:

Reacted to "big fan of seating +…" with
18:28:00 From David Tuzman to Everyone:

Reacted to "Why not make 800 blo..." with
18:28:06 From [email protected] to Everyone:

Reacted to "Why not make 800 blo..." with
18:28:25 From Sonia Elkes to Everyone:

Reacted to "Why not make 800 blo…" with
18:28:53 From David Tuzman to Everyone:

Replying to "Why not make 800 blo..."
the 700 block concepts both listed “biking” throughout
18:29:03 From Sabina Mora, City of San Carlos Senior Planner to Everyone:

Reacted to "Why not make 800 blo..." with
18:29:03 From Michael Tundres to Everyone:

Why are the trees taller and greener in the second image 18:29:54 From Mark Bauhaus to Everyone:

Replying to "Why not make 800 blo…"

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2063
Yes thanks. I was referring to 600/800 biking which needs to be safe for bikes and easy including preferred parking.
18:29:55 From Michael Tundres to Everyone:

Is it to downplay the additonal four stories stackde on top of the buildings? 18:30:00 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Is there an overhead view?
18:30:04 From David Tuzman to Everyone:

Replying to "Why not make 800 blo..."
which, I hope means that there will either be a dedicated path; or fully mixed use ped+bike (unlike today where biking is technically not allowed on 700) 18:30:13 From David Tuzman to Everyone:

Reacted to "Yes thanks. I was r..." with
18:30:15 From [email protected] to Everyone:

Replying to "Why not make 800 blo..."
Also the one-way street idea.
18:30:40 From Mark Bauhaus to Everyone:

Reacted to "which, I hope means …" with
18:31:24 From Michael Tundres to Everyone:

Retail crime went up quite a bit there
18:33:00 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Would appreciate more focus on Caltrain and ECR bus
18:33:25 From David Tuzman to Everyone:

Reacted to "Would appreciate mor..." with
18:33:38 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2064
Reacted to "Would appreciate mor..." with
18:33:39 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Removed a reaction from "Would appreciate mor..."
18:33:52 From Aaron to Everyone:

Reacted to "Would appreciate mor..." with
18:34:26 From Michael Tundres to Everyone:

Density is everything. If you keep building more homes and business while not adding additonal roads you will get result of congestion, frustration and ultimately erosion of society over time.
18:35:08 From Jon Rose to Everyone:

I agree with Michael. Traffic is already problematic during special events. 18:35:49 From David Tuzman to Everyone:
good reason to optimize our cities to make non-car travel as attractive as possible 18:36:25 From Amy Newby, City of San Carlos to Everyone:

Reacted to "Would appreciate mor..." with
18:36:27 From Amy Newby, City of San Carlos to Everyone:

Removed a reaction from "Would appreciate mor..."
18:36:29 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Replying to "Density is everythin..."
As you say, density is everything, and cars are an extremely sparse method of transportation. Making our streets more friendly to walkers, bikers, and personal mobility devices is key to moving more people
18:36:43 From Kristen Clements to Everyone:

Reacted to "As you say, density ..." with
18:36:53 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Reacted to "good reason to optim..." with

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2065
18:37:19 From Aaron to Everyone:

Have you looked at how to make the existing parking areas "better"? More spots, more availability, better traffic flow, cleaner, better lit, etc? 18:39:08 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Noticing the loop is all left turns
18:39:30 From [email protected] to Everyone:

San Carlos could really distinguish itself and retain charm if we favor independent businesses (not chains) in his re-imagined downtown.
18:39:50 From Mark Bauhaus to Everyone:

The one way ideas are really interesting. But add bikes. Bikes are currently jammed into cars on San Carlos Av from Elm to train station and vice versa. Treacherous at best! Attract non cars too!!
18:40:02 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Reacted to "The one way ideas ar..." with
18:40:07 From Adria Olender to Everyone:

Reacted to "The one way ideas ar..." with
18:40:13 From Arley Lewis to Everyone:

Reacted to "The one way ideas ar..." with
18:40:26 From Tara Berta to Everyone:

I do think you need more for teens 13-17 … park isn’t for everyone, yc is young, and all they do is spend $
19:11:55 From [email protected] to Everyone:

I didn't get to mention it in the breakout, but San Carlos should choose trees for downtown very thoughtfully. It's not the place to pinch pennies! 19:12:34 From Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos to Everyone:

There will be coffee and snacks!
19:12:42 From Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos to Everyone:

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2066
We are looking forward to seeing you all!
19:12:44 From David Tuzman to Everyone:

Reacted to "There will be coffee..." with
19:12:45 From Aaron to Everyone:

Replying to "I do think you need ..."
what is yc? Generally, this is what I see on NextDoor!
19:12:55 From Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos to Everyone:

Right next to Peets!
19:12:56 From Aaron to Everyone:

Reacted to "I didn't get to ment..." with
19:13:13 From Kristen Clements to Everyone:

The former Harvest store
19:13:16 From Mark & Caroline Bauhaus to Everyone:

Love the pictures of greenery, trees, water features, gathering areas, event spaces. All great. Maybe a toilet for the new town living room too? 19:13:18 From Sonia Elkes to Everyone:

Reacted to "I didn't get to ment…" with
19:13:29 From Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos to Everyone:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/san-carlos-downtown-ideation-workshop-in-persontickets-751829280617?aff=oddtdtcreator 19:13:49 From Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos to Everyone:

Please RSVP here for the in-person meeting on Saturday
19:13:55 From Kristen Clements to Everyone:

Reacted to "There will be coffee..." with
19:14:02 From David Tuzman to Everyone:

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2067
Replying to "Love the pictures of..."
or an agreement with businesses to allow public access to their facilities 19:16:30 From Solomon Liu to Everyone:

Thanks to City Staff and WRT!
19:16:39 From Mark & Caroline Bauhaus to Everyone:

Reacted to "or an agreement with…" with
19:17:15 From Mark & Caroline Bauhaus to Everyone:

Reacted to "I didn't get to ment…" with
19:17:47 From Poonam Narkar | WRT to Everyone:

Members from my group - if I missed anything please add it in the chat. Thank you for your feedback during the discussion
19:18:05 From Tom Hausken to Everyone:

Reacted to "Members from my grou..." with
19:19:13 From Adria Olender to Everyone:

I love that idea!
19:25:43 From [email protected] to Everyone:

Yes, businesses need a strong voice in this plan.
19:27:37 From David Tuzman to Everyone:

I forgot to mention… we should improve the crossing safety on all the elm intersections. like elm/cherry which seems like it should be a 4-way stop sign… but it’s only 2 way. similar even down at chestnut/cherry
19:27:51 From Linnet Kwok - City of San Carlos to Everyone:

Reacted to "I forgot to mention…..." with
19:28:22 From Poonam Narkar | WRT to Everyone:

Reacted to "I forgot to mention…..." with

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2068
19:28:28 From David Tuzman to Everyone:

Replying to "I forgot to mention…..."
the new signs that say “cross traffic does not stop” aren’t very effective 19:28:56 From Aaron to Everyone:

I imagine it would be fantastic to dine on Laurel in a small redwood grove, lights strung between the trees. Working with the local business to figure out how and what to implement is an important component of this. If patrons win, businesses win, and vice versa.
19:29:07 From Linnet Kwok - City of San Carlos to Everyone:

Replying to "I forgot to mention…..."
I live at that corner. Especially non peak hours, cars drive through very fast. 19:29:15 From Jennifer Cray to Everyone:

Reacted to "I forgot to mention……" with
19:29:18 From Mark & Caroline Bauhaus to Everyone:

Reacted to "I imagine it would b…" with
19:30:23 From David Tuzman to Everyone:
yes! parking heirarchy!
19:30:40 From Mark & Caroline Bauhaus to Everyone:

Cherry drop off: place for bike parking, ride share pickup, and people drop off at that point…
19:31:43 From Arley Lewis to Everyone:

Reacted to "Cherry drop off: pl..." with
19:31:57 From Arley Lewis to Everyone:

Reacted to "I forgot to mention…..." with
19:31:58 From Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos to Everyone:

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2069
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/san-carlos-downtown-ideation-workshop-in-persontickets-751829280617?aff=oddtdtcreator 19:32:06 From Sajuti Haque- City of San Carlos to Everyone:

Here it is again! See you all there!
19:32:47 From Rohit Tak I WRT to Everyone:

All participants, please use this link to answer two simple questions:
https://wrt.typeform.com/to/MUZYkfhr
19:33:21 From Aaron to Everyone:
thank you!
19:33:32 From Mark & Caroline Bauhaus to Everyone:

Thank you
19:33:33 From [email protected] to Everyone:

Thanks!
19:33:36 From Adria Olender to Everyone:

Thank you!

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2070
Ideation Workshop (In-Person)
December 9, 2023

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2071
Downtown Specific Plan Ideation Workshop (In-Person)
December 9, 2023
On Saturday, December 9, an estimated 200 community members participated in the all-day City of San Carlos’ Downtown Ideation Workshop that was held at 677 Laurel Street, in the heart of downtown San Carlos. It was a huge step forward in making community connections about the future of downtown San Carlos.

Downtown Ideation Storefront, 677 Laurel Street, Suite C, December 9, 2023 City staff is extremely appreciative to receive this level of engagement from the community, who commented on:

• Public Space Design (e.g. 600, 700, 800 Laurel, 1100 and 1200 San Carlos Avenue, El Camino Real, plus public plazas at Harrington Park and the temporary parking lot next to Blue Line Pizza and Paris Baguette) • Program Mix (activation and use of public spaces, amenities, etc.) • Circulation & Access (how we move about the downtown)

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2072

In addition to the exhibit and presentations, a light demonstration of wider sidewalks options for Laurel Street was displayed to help participants visualize what that could look like. This exhibit drew many passersby into the event, where they were greeted by city staff and the consultant team.

Wider Sidewalks Demonstration, Downtown Ideation Workshop, December 9, 2023
Participants Reviewing Exhibits, Downtown Ideation Workshop, December 9, 2023
Workshop Materials
• December 9 Presentation
• December 9 Meeting Summary

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2073
Virtual Ideation Survey Summary
A total of 761 community members shared their reflections on the future of downtown San Carlos.

Survey Results:

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2074

SAN CARLOS DOWNTOWN SPECIFIC PLAN

DOWNTOWN IDEATION WORKSHOP
DECEMBER 09, 2023

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2075
City of San Carlos Team
Al Savay
Community & Economic
Development Director
Lisa Porras
Planning Manager
Megan Wooley-Ousdahl
Project Manager,
Senior Planner
4 NORTHEAST AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN Northeast Area Specific Plan | Community Workshop 1

CITY OF SAN CARLOS TEAM
Sajuti Haque
Senior Management
Analyst
Lisa Porras
Planning Manager
Al Savay
Community & Economic
Development Director
f San Carlos Team
Al Savay
munity & Economic
velopment Director
Lisa Porras
Planning Manager
Megan Wooley-Ousdahl
Project Manager,
Senior Planner
4 AREA
ea Specific Plan | Community Workshop 1
Linnet Kwok
Senior
Administrative Clerk
Akanksha Chopra
Associate Planner

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2076
Matt Taecker
Sr. Planner /Urban Designer
Zoning Update +
Development Standards
James Stickley
Princi pal-in-Cha rge
Public Realm Design Lead
Poonam Narkar
Project Manager /
Sr. Ur ban Designer
Engagement Lead
C
K arly K aufman
Rincon Consulting/
Environmental
Brian Canepa
W-TRANS / Mobility, Circulation
& Parking Strategy, & Downtown
Traffic Operations Study

MEET OUR TEAM
David Greensfelder
Gr eenfel der Commer ci al
Real Estate /
Retail Market Strategy
Robert S tevens
CSW|ST2 / Civil
Engineering & Infrastructure

PRIME CONSULTANT

PLANNING / URBAN DESIGN / PLACEMAKING

SUBCONSULTANT TEAM
David Shiver
BAE/
Financing & Funding Strategy
R ohit Tak
Project Urban Designer
Ashwin Nambiar
Urban Designer
Can Liu
Landscape Designer
Federico Messa
Sys temati c a /
Matt Taecker Mobility & Circulation Strategy
Sr. Planner /Urban Designer
Zoning Update +
Development Standards
James Stickley
Principal-in-Charge
Public Realm Design Lead
Poonam Narkar
Project Manager /
Sr. Urban Designer
Engagement Lead
C
Karly Kaufman
Rincon Consulting/
Environmental
Brian Canepa
W-TRANS / Mobility, Circulation
& Parking Strategy

MEET OUR TEAM
David Greensfelder
Greenfelder Commercial
Real Estate /
Retail Market Strategy
Robert Stevens
CSW|ST2 / Civil
Engineering & Infrastructure

PRIME CONSULTANT

PLANNING / URBAN DESIGN / PLACEMAKING

SUBCONSULTANT TEAM
David Shiver
BAE/
Financing & Funding Strategy
Under separate
contract with the City
Rohit Tak
Project Urban Designer
Ashwin Nambiar
Urban Designer
Can Liu
Landscape Designer

CONSULTANT TEAM
Matt Taecker
Sr. Planner /Urban Designer
Zoning Update +
Development Standards
James Stickley
Princi pal-in-Cha rge
Public Realm Design Lead
Poonam Narkar
Project Manager /
Sr. Ur ban Designer
Engagement Lead
C

MEET OUR TEAM
David Greensfelder
Gr eenfel der Commer ci al
Real Estate /
Retail Market Strategy

PRIME CONSULTANT

PLANNING / URBAN DESIGN / PLACEMAKING

SUBCONSULTANT TEAM
David Shiver
BAE/
Financing & Funding Strategy
Federico Messa
Sys temati c a /
Mobility & Circulation Strategy

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2077

WHAT IS THE VISION FOR
DOWNTOWN SAN CARLOS?

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2078

DRAFT VISION STATEMENT
Downtown is the heart of San Carlos that
provides a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly, safe,
charming, futuristic, and accessible destination for
the community. It is a place for celebration and
gathering that offers diverse and authentic
experiences through a draw of food, retail,
services, art and music in a visually attractive
environment for the growing community. Downtown
is an inclusive place with easy access for all,
opportunities for housing and businesses of
all types, and inviting spaces for all users.

Downtown San Carlos is a sustainable district,
with landscape that supports ecological and
community health & well-being.

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2079

DRAFT GUIDING PRINCIPLES

VISION GUIDING PRINCIPLES

DRAFT DRAFT
Downtown is the heart of San
Carlos that provides a vibrant,
pedestrian-friendly, safe, charming,
futuristic, and accessible
destination for the community.

It is a place for celebration and
gathering that offers diverse and
authentic experiences through
a draw of food, retail, services,
art and music in a visually
attractive environment for the
growing community. Downtown
is an inclusive place with easy
access for all, opportunities for
housing and businesses of all
types, and inviting spaces for all
users. Downtown San Carlos is a
sustainable district, with landscape
that supports ecological and
community health & well-being.

1. Y
EQUITY + RESILIENCE

PLACEMAKING
& IDENTITY

DOWNTOWN

VIBRANCY

MOBILITY &

CONNECTIVITY
The Plan Area should strive to be
an equitable place offering social,
economic, housing and recreational
opportunities at varying levels of
affordability for all users along with
being resilient to address evolving
climate adaptation needs.

The Downtown Specific Plan
should strive to create distinctive
character and identity unique to
San Carlos’ culture, history, and
context; defined by the physical
form and experience of the
downtown.

The Downtown should achieve a level
of vibrancy and vitality that consistently
attracts users and shoppers through
enhancement of local businesses and
diverse programming, in a setting that is
distinctive, safe, and attractive.

Downtown should have a balance
of mobility modes that emphasizes
pedestrian, bicycle, and public
transit circulation along with
effective parking management
strategies, to support a socially
vibrant pedestrian-oriented
environment and to minimize autodependence to access downtown.

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2080

PLACEMAKING
+ IDENTITY

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2081

DOWNTOWN

VIBRANCY

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2082

MOBILITY &

CONNECTIVITY

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2083

PUBLIC REALM DESIGN

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2084

CONCEPT 1
“THE PROMENADE”

CONCEPT ALTERNATIVES
CONCEPT 2
“THE GARDENS”
700 BLOCK - LAUREL STREET BETWEEN CHERRY STREET AND OLIVE STREET

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2085

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK
CONCEPT 1
“THE PROMENADE”
El Camino Real
Laurel Street
Cherry St
Olive St

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2086

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK CONCEPT 1
“THE PROMENADE”

PUBLIC ART/ BIKE PARKING

BOSQUE AND STORM WATER MANAGEMENT SHADE AND SEATING

CENTRAL PROMENADE
2 4
5 3 OUTDOOR DINING
2 3
4 5
1 6

PEDESTRIAN PATHS
1 PLANTER BOXES FOR STREET CLOSURE
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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2087

CONCERT SPACE

FOUNTAIN/ JETS AT THE PLAZA

BOSQUE PLAY/ PROGRAMMED SPACE

COMMUNITY EVENTS

HARRINGTON PARK EVENT LAWN
1 1 AMPHITHEATER
2 2
4 3
5 3
5 4

CENTRAL PLAZA

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK CONCEPT 1
“THE PROMENADE”

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2088

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK
CONCEPT 2
“THE GARDENS”
El Camino Real
Laurel Street
Cherry St
Olive St

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2089

RAIN GARDEN

PLAY SCULPTURE

CHESS BOARD

THE GARDENS
1 PLANTER BOXES FOR STREET CLOSURE
2 4
3 OUTDOOR DINING CORNHOLE
2 3
4 4
1 PROGRAM OPPORTUNITIES

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK CONCEPT 2
“THE GARDENS”

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2090

OUTDOOR SEATING

PERFORMANCE/ MOVIE OUTDOOR SEATING

PUBLIC ART

LINEAR WATER FEATURE

COMMUNITY EVENTS

HARRINGTON PARK EVENT PLAZA

CENTRAL PLAZA
1 1 SHADE
2 2
6 5
4 3
3 4
5 6

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK CONCEPT 2
“THE GARDENS”

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2091

LAUREL STREET
600 BLOCK

CONCEPT
El Camino Real
Laurel Street
San Carlos Avenue
Cherry St

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2092

BIOSWALE

OUTDOOR DINING

INTERACTIVE ELEMENT

WHEELER GATEWAY
1 EXPANDED SIDEWALK
2 4
6 5
PLANTER BOXES 3 SEATING
2 3
4 5
6 1

LAUREL STREET
600 BLOCK CONCEPT

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2093

INTERACTIVE ELEMENT

OUTDOOR DINING

MULTI-PURPOSE SPACE -

POP-UP CAFE/ FOOD TRUCK/ BEER GARDEN

EXPANDED PLAZA
4 3
2 FOOD HALL
1 2
1 3
5 5 PUBLIC RESTROOMS
4 MULTI-PURPOSE SPACE -
PERFORMANCE AREA 4

LAUREL STREET
600 BLOCK WHEELER PLAZA CONCEPT

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2094

SCHEMATIC PLAN CROSS SECTION

LAUREL STREET
CONCEPT 1 - PARELLEL BOTH SIDES
600 & 800 BLOCKS
(LOOKING NORTH)
(LOOKING NORTH)

EXISTING
(LOOKING NORTH)

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2095

LAUREL STREET
CONCEPT 2 - PARALLEL, ALTERNATING SIDES
600 & 800 BLOCK

SCHEMATIC PLAN
(LOOKING NORTH)

CROSS SECTION
(LOOKING NORTH)

EXISTING
(LOOKING NORTH)

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2096

SAN CARLOS AVENUE

PRIMARY GATEWAY TO

DOWNTOWN
1100 & 1200 BLOCKS
(LOOKING EAST)

EXISTING

PROPOSED
(LOOKING EAST)

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2097

EL CAMINO REAL

EXISTING

PROPOSED
(LOOKING NORTH)
(LOOKING NORTH)

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2098

EXISTING

PROPOSED

ARROYO AVENUE
(LOOKING EAST)
(LOOKING EAST)

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2099

EXISTING

PROPOSED

BRITTAN AVENUE
(LOOKING EAST)
(LOOKING EAST)

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2100

PEDESTRIAN MALL EXAMPLES

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2101

EXAMPLE 1: PEDESTRIAN MALL | ITHACA COMMONS, NY

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2102

EXAMPLE 2: PEDESTRIAN MALL | PEARL STREET, BOULDER, CO

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2103

EXAMPLE 3: PEDESTRIAN MALL | CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2104

EXAMPLE 4: CASTRO STREET, MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2105

EXAMPLE 5: BURLINGAME AVENUE, BURLINGAME, CA

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2106

PROGRAM IDEAS FROM OTHER CITIES

FORT COLLINS SANTANA ROW

OCTAVIA BOULEVARD OCTAVIA BOULEVARD

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2107

HOW CAN CIRCULATION EFFECTIVELY
SUPPORT THE VISION?

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2108

HOW DO WE MOVE
AROUND TOWN?

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2109

HOW DO WE ACCESS
THE DOWNTOWN?

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2110

HOW DO WE USE LAUREL
STREET DURING EVENTS?
SCENARIO 1:
700 BLOCK PEDESTRIAN PLAZA
SCENARIO 2:
700 BLOCK PEDESTRIAN PLAZA +

TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF LAUREL
STREET
SCENARIO 3:
700 BLOCK PEDESTRIAN PLAZA +

TEMPORARY PEDESTRIANIZATION

OF LAUREL STREET & SAN

CARLOS AVENUE
600 700 800
600 700 800
600 700 800

EVENT DATE/DAY TIME ATTENDANCE LOCATION
San Carlos
Farmers'
Market
Every Sunday,
Year-round

9.00 AM -

1.00 PM 2,000 Laurel Street
Art & Wine
Fair Annual, Month of
October

10.00 AM -

6.00 PM 50,000 Laurel Street
Goblin Walk Friday, October
27, 2023

4.00 PM -

5.30 PM 2,000 Laurel Street
Night of
Holiday
Lights
Annual, Month of
December
5:00 PM -
8:30 PM 3,000 Laurel Street
Block Party July/ August
2024

4.00 PM -

8.00 PM 2,000 Laurel Street
Laurel Street 700 Block Closure/ Pedestrian Plaza
Temporary Pedestrianization Scenarios

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2111

OPTION 2

ELM AS AN ARTERIAL
OPTION 3B

ONE WAY LOOP
OPTION 3A

SWING LANES
OPTION 1

EVEN DISTRIBUTION

POTENTIAL CIRCULATION

SCENARIOS

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2112

OPTION 1

EVEN DISTRIBUTION

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2113

OPTION 2

ELM AS AN ARTERIAL

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2114

OPTION 3A

SWING LANES

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2115

OPTION 3B

ONE-WAY LOOP

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2117

THANK YOU

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2118

REGIONAL AND LOCAL
CONTEXT • Downtown San Carlos plays an important role
in the local setting, offering a quaint main street
environment for the San Carlos community and
a local destination for neighboring communities.
• Proximity to the US-101 interchanges at Holly
Street and Brittan Avenue, and the Caltrain
Station are key assets that provide easy access
and connectivity to and from downtown.
• Laurel street serves as the main spine and hub
of activity while El Camino Real forms an edge
to downtown offering significant potential for
enhancement.
• Close proximity and easy connectivity to
the Civic Center is an added asset with an
opportunity to expand the identity of the
downtown district by integrating social and
civic activities.

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2119

HOW DO WE ACCESS
THE DOWNTOWN?

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2120

WHAT’S IN OUR
DOWNTOWN TODAY?
Source: City of San Carlos

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2121

HOW IS DOWNTOWN SAN CARLOS DOING?
Working Well
• Resident satisfaction with 700 block of Laurel Street • New and different setting
• Functioning as community gathering place
• Food and beverage establishments flourishing
Needs Improvement
• Peninsula downtowns are highly competitive and San Carlos falls short in comparison to neighboring towns on atmosphere & offerings • Sidewalks & amenities detract from visitor experience • Parklet “culture” favors food & beverages and disadvantages other retail • Parklet design detracts from downtown quality
• Downtown circulation post-closure is unclear
• Goods retailers experiencing drop in sales and staff layoffs • F&B customer parking in off-street lots reduce parking turnover needed for customers of retailers offering goods and services

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2122

Castro Street, Mountain View, CA
• 3-blocks on Castro Street being converted to a pedestrian mall on interim basis.
• Lots of food and beverages businesses some services
• Some attempt at uniformity with outdoor seating and
amenities, but unevenly successful.
• Caltrain adjacent, good public parking parallel to the street. • Pedestrian paths through each block to access parking. • The cross streets are 2-way cross streets so circulation around the closed blocks is more straightforward.
• Quite a bit of vacancy
Burlingame Avenue, Burlingame, CA
• 5-blocks corridor and some side streets.
• No street closures, but the traffic calming is achieved by the density and there is easy jay walking.
• Well-proportioned sidewalks with sidewalk amenities
• Caltrain proximity. Connection to train station is good but not a demand driver.
• District parking in lots behind stores.
• Results:
» Low storefront vacancy today
» Preserved and grew sales tax revenue
» High satisfaction among residents and businesses
Pearl Street, Boulder, CO
• 4-blocks long pedestrian mall of 14 blocks long
commercial portion of Pearl Street.
• Mall open 24 hours, but businesses have their own
operating hours.
• A variety of events with different sponsors are offered in the Downtown area. Game days are big!
• Issues:
» High cost to operate.
» Lower retail business vitality than areas with vehicle access. » Issue #3 – A variety of retail/equity issues.

HOW ARE OTHER CITIES DOING?

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2123

59 San Carlos Downtown Specific Plan – Transport and mobility study – December, 2023

SAN CARLOS RESIDENT

SAN CARLOS STUDENT SAN CARLOS INVESTOR SAN CARLOS RELATIVE SAN CARLOS WORKER SAN CARLOS THERAPIST SAN CARLOS MOM SAN CARLOS INFLUENCER

Residents move mainly by
private modes, if available, or
with active modes. Routinary
and occasional movements
during the day are expected.

Visitors move mainly by on-demand
shared and private modes (e.g. taxi)
from the hotel with movements
during daytime for specific business
and visiting errands.

Commuters, often living in adjacent
cities, take trips by scheduled PT or
if available with private modes.

Peak movements are seen during
morning and afternoon.

Casual downtown goers, who may
frequent the area in certain occasions,
move mainly by private modes.

Common movements are foreseen
during afternoon and evening.

The user journey analysis is tailored on the needs of each user group.

People
move by:

USER JOURNEYS

USER PROFILES
60 S
ClDtSifiPlTt d bilittdDb2023
User Journey
User Profiling
The user journey analysis is tailored on the needs of each user group.

People
move by:

SAN FRANCISCO TAILOR

LIVING IN SUNNYVALE

SAN JOSÉ WORKER LIVING

IN SAN FRANSISCO

SAN CARLOS RESEARCHER SAN CARLOS SCIENCE NERD SAN CARLOS PARTY GIRLS SAN CARLOS DJ

Through commuters, that lives
outside San Carlos and
commute through San Carlos
every day to reach their work.

Peak movements are seen
during morning and evening.

East-side innovation district
employees take trips to downtown
for happy hour, dinner or lunch,
Occasional movements during
lunchtime or early afternoon.

Nighttime visitors, living in the
suburbs of the region or
neighboring downtown, take trips
by private modes or family kiss &
ride. Peak movements are seen
during the evening and nighttime.

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2124

61 San Carlos Downtown Specific Plan – Transport and mobility study – December, 2023 User Journey
San Carlos Resident

HOME CHURCH WALKING STORE WALKING HOME
• Grandmother and pensioner living with
her daughter, son-in-law and grandkids
• Active church member
• Access is mainly by scheduled PT or if
available, private modes
• Occasional movements in the morning for
walks and early market shopping
Mary, 73
San Carlos Elderly Resident

WALKING MORNING
COFFEE

WALKING
5 min
6 min
2 min

PEDESTRIAN CROSSING
12 min to walk back home
1 2
3 4
1 2 3 4
Less cars would mean less smog
Many cars are polluting
San Carlos Av
More pedestrian space would make this
more comfortable to walk
Sidewalk is narrow
and full of people

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2125

65 San Carlos Downtown Specific Plan – Transport and mobility study – December, 2023 User Journey
San Carlos Commuter

San José
9 min

HOME TRAVELLING TRAIN STATION
(CALTRAIN)

WALKING WORKPLACE

WALKING WORKOUT WALKING TRAVELLING
(CALTRAIN)
HOME
Diego, 25
San Carlos Tech Worker
• San José-based software engineer working
in finance
• Gym buff
• Trips by scheduled PT or occasionally with
private cars
• Peaks during the morning and afternoon to
reach and leave the workplace
9 min 9 min 6 min walk to the station

PEDESTRIAN CROSSING

TRAIN STATION
1 3
1 2
2 3
More pedestrian friendly environment
would mean more safety and comfort for
daily routines
Most of his route is filled with
cars and parking space

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2126

67 San Carlos Downtown Specific Plan – Transport and mobility study – December, 2023 DINNER
User Journey
San Carlos Casual Downtown Shopper

HOME PRIVATE CAR PARKING

WALKING WALKING PARKING

PRIVATE CAR HOME SHOPPING

• Single mom with a kid and a dog, working in
full remote
• Access is mainly by private modes, or
occasionally, with scheduled PT
• Occasional movements in the afternoon for
quick grocery shopping and early dinner
Sarah, 35
San Carlos Working mom

PEDESTRIAN CROSSING

WALKING
3 3
1 1 2
2 Less cars would mean more security and
safety for kids playing and running
The street has narrow sidewalk
and cars still using the lanes
Nothing would really change on this, except for more
pedestrian area after leaving the car
Easy and quick to access
parking area

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2127

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2128

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2129

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2130

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2131

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2132

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2133

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2134

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2135

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2136

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2137
Economic Development Advisory
Committee (EDAC) Study Session
January 23, 2024

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2138
Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) Study Session January 23, 2024
City Staff and the consultant team from WRT gave a presentation on the Downtown Specific Plan streetscape design ideas to the EDAC for their input.

This study session was held during the EDAC’s regular scheduled meeting on January 23, 2024 in the Collaboration Room at City Hall. Members of the EDAC provided input and were asked by staff to submit responses to key questions.

EDAC’s January 23, 2024 Study Session Materials:
• Downtown Specific Plan EDAC Study Session Presentation • Downtown Specific Plan - Questions for EDAC

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2139

SAN CARLOS DOWNTOWN SPECIFIC PLAN

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING
JANUARY 23, 2024
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2140
WHY ARE WE HERE TODAY?
• Hear from the consultant team about preliminary
design concepts and economic analysis.
• Discussion on Questions specifically related
to economic development emerged from community feedback and Consultant team analysis.

January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2141
AGENDA
• Welcome & Introductions• Consultant Presentation • Q&A January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2142

CITY OF SAN CARLOS TEAM
Sajuti Haque
Senior Management
Analyst
Lisa Porras
Planning Manager
Al Savay
Community & Economic
Development Director
Linnet Kwok
Senior
Administrative Clerk
Akanksha Chopra
Associate Planner
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2143
K arly K aufman
Rincon Consulting/
Environmental
Brian Canepa
W-TRANS / Mobility, Circulation
& Parking Strategy, & Downtown
Traffic Operations Study

MEETOUR TEAM
David Greensfelder
Gr eenfel der Commer ci al
Real Estate /
Retail Market Strategy
Robert S tevens
CSW|ST2 / Civil
Engineering & Infrastructure

SUBCONSULTANT TEAM
David Shiver
BAE/
Financing & Funding Strategy
Federico Messa
Sys temati c a /
Matt Taecker Mobility & Circulation Strategy
Sr. Planner /Urban Designer
Zoning Update +
Development Standards
James Stickley
Principal-in-Charge
Public Realm Design Lead
Poonam Narkar
Project Manager /
Sr. Urban Designer
Engagement Lead
C

PRIME CONSULTANTPLANNING / URBAN DESIGN / PLACEMAKING
Rohit Tak
Project Urban Designer
Ashwin Nambiar
Urban Designer
Can Liu
Landscape Designer

CONSULTANT TEAM
Federico Messa
Sys temati c a /
Mobility & Circulation Strategy
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2144

WHAT IS THE VISION FOR
DOWNTOWN SAN CARLOS?
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2145

DRAFT VISION STATEMENT
Downtown is the heart of San Carlos that provides a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly, safe, charming, futuristic, and accessible destination for the community. It is a place for celebration and gathering that offers diverse and authentic experiences through a draw of food, retail, services, art and music in a visually attractive environment for the growing community. Downtown is an inclusive place with easy access for all, opportunities for housing and businesses of all types, and inviting spaces for all users.Downtown San Carlos is a sustainable district, with landscape that supports ecological and community health & well-being.

January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2146

DRAFT GUIDING PRINCIPLES
DRAFT

1. Y
EQUITY + RESILIENCE
Y

PLACEMAKING & IDENTITY

DOWNTOWN

VIBRANCY

MOBILITY &

CONNECTIVITY
The Plan Area should strive to be
an equitable place offering social,
economic, housing and recreational
opportunities at varying levels of
affordability for all users along with
being resilient to address evolving
climate adaptation needs.

The Downtown Specific Plan
should strive to create distinctive
character and identity unique to
San Carlos’ culture, history, and
context; defined by the physical
form and experience of the
downtown.

The Downtown should achieve a level
of vibrancy and vitality that consistently
attracts users and shoppers through
enhancement of local businesses and
diverse programming, in a setting that is
distinctive, safe, and attractive.

Downtown should have a balance
of mobility modes that emphasizes
pedestrian, bicycle, and public
transit circulation along with
effective parking management
strategies, to support a socially
vibrant pedestrian-oriented
environment and to minimize autodependence to access downtown.

January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2147

PLACEMAKING
+ IDENTITY
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2148

DOWNTOWN

VIBRANCY
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2149

MOBILITY &

CONNECTIVITY
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2150

PUBLIC REALM DESIGN
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2151
CONCEPT 1
“THE PROMENADE”

CONCEPT ALTERNATIVES
CONCEPT 2
“THE GARDENS”
700 BLOCK - LAUREL STREET BETWEEN CHERRY STREET AND OLIVE STREET January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2152

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK
CONCEPT 1
“THE PROMENADE”
El Camino Real
Laurel Street
Cherry St
Olive St
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2153

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK CONCEPT 1“THE PROMENADE”

PUBLIC ART/ BIKE PARKING

BOSQUE AND STORM WATER MANAGEMENT SHADE AND SEATING

CENTRAL PROMENADE
2 45
3 OUTDOOR DINING
2 3
4 5
1 6

PEDESTRIAN PATHS
1 PLANTER BOXES FOR STREET CLOSURE
6 January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2154

CONCERT SPACE

FOUNTAIN/ JETS AT THE PLAZA

BOSQUE PLAY/ PROGRAMMED SPACE

COMMUNITY EVENTSHARRINGTON PARK EVENT LAWN
1 1 AMPHITHEATER
2 2
4 3
5 3
5 4

CENTRAL PLAZA

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK CONCEPT 1“THE PROMENADE”
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2155

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK
CONCEPT 2
“THE GARDENS”
El Camino Real
Laurel Street
Cherry St
Olive St
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2156

RAIN GARDEN

PLAY SCULPTURE

CHESS BOARD

THE GARDENS
1 PLANTER BOXES FOR STREET CLOSURE 2
4 3 OUTDOOR DINING CORNHOLE
2 3
4 4
1 PROGRAM OPPORTUNITIES

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK CONCEPT 2“THE GARDENS”
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2157

OUTDOOR SEATING

PERFORMANCE/ MOVIE OUTDOOR SEATING

PUBLIC ART

LINEAR WATER FEATURE

COMMUNITY EVENTSHARRINGTON PARK EVENT PLAZA

CENTRAL PLAZA
1 1 SHADE
2 2
6 5
4 3
3 4
5 6

LAUREL STREET
700 BLOCK CONCEPT 2“THE GARDENS”
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2158

LAUREL STREET
600 BLOCK CONCEPT
El Camino Real Laurel Street
San
Carlos
Avenue
Cherry St
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2159

BIOSWALE

OUTDOOR DININGINTERACTIVE ELEMENT

WHEELER GATEWAY
1 EXPANDED SIDEWALK2
4 6
5 PLANTER BOXES 3 SEATING
2 3
4 5
6 1

LAUREL STREET
600 BLOCK CONCEPT
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2160

INTERACTIVE ELEMENT

OUTDOOR DINING

MULTI-PURPOSE SPACE -

POP-UP CAFE/ FOOD TRUCK/ BEER GARDEN

EXPANDED PLAZA
4 3
2 FOOD HALL
1 2
13 5
5 PUBLIC RESTROOMS
4 MULTI-PURPOSE SPACE -
PERFORMANCE AREA 4

LAUREL STREET
600 BLOCK WHEELER PLAZA CONCEPT
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2161

SCHEMATIC PLAN CROSS SECTION
LAUREL STREET CONCEPT 1 - PARELLEL BOTH SIDES 600 & 800 BLOCKS (LOOKING NORTH)
(LOOKING NORTH)

EXISTING(LOOKING NORTH)
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2162

LAUREL STREET
CONCEPT 2 - PARALLEL, ALTERNATING SIDES 600 & 800 BLOCK

SCHEMATIC PLAN
(LOOKING NORTH)

CROSS SECTION
(LOOKING NORTH)

EXISTING(LOOKING NORTH)
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2163

SAN CARLOS AVENUE

PRIMARY GATEWAY TO DOWNTOWN
1100 & 1200 BLOCKS(LOOKING EAST)

EXISTING PROPOSED(LOOKING EAST)
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2164

EL CAMINO REAL

EXISTING PROPOSED(LOOKING NORTH)
(LOOKING NORTH)
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2165

PEDESTRIAN MALL EXAMPLES
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2166
EXAMPLE 1: PEDESTRIAN MALL | ITHACA COMMONS, NY
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2167
EXAMPLE 2: PEDESTRIAN MALL | PEARL STREET, BOULDER, CO
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2168
EXAMPLE 3: PEDESTRIAN MALL | CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2169
EXAMPLE 4: CASTRO STREET, MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2170
EXAMPLE 5: BURLINGAME AVENUE, BURLINGAME, CA
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2171

PROGRAM IDEAS FROM OTHER CITIES

FORT COLLINS SANTANA ROW

OCTAVIA BOULEVARD OCTAVIA BOULEVARD
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2172
&$0/0.*$
"/"-:4*4
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2173
Demographics – Population & Household Characteristics
Economy – Economic Base
City Fiscal Position
Real Estate Market Conditions
Questions for EDAC
Existing Condition: Economics Analysis
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2174
Demographics – Population
2023 Population:29,500Modest Recent Growth2010-2023:+1,100 Citywide Growth Prospects2023-2033:+6,000-7,900** Assumes buildout of Housing Element withaverage household size of 2.12 persons. Actualgrowth will likely be less than maximum potential.

Source: CA Department of Finance; BAE, 2023. Downtown Growth Prospects 2023-2033:
+1,600 *
* Assumes buildout of at least 747 units with average household size of 2.12 persons January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2175
Demographics – Median Age & Age Distribution
Median Age 2023

45.341.2
Age Distribution
Source: Esri Business Analyst; BAE, 2023.

San Carlos
San Mateo County

21.3%

7.6%

26.5%

26.3%

18.3%

22.6%

7.2%

19.6%

30.6%

19.8%

0.0% 5.0% 10.0% 15.0% 20.0% 25.0% 30.0% 35.0%
Under 18
18-2425-4445-64
65 or older
San Carlos San Mateo
County
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2176
Demographics – Educational Attainment and Income
Educational Attainment Median Household Income

92.0%

97.3%

55.4%

70.2%

0.0% 20.0% 40.0% 60.0% 80.0% 100.0%
San Mateo
County
San Carlos
% of Population 25+ with Bachelor's Degree or Higher% of Population 25+ High School Graduate or Higher Sources: Esri Business Analyst; BAE, 2023.
$138,438
$200,001
$0 $50,000 $100,000 $150,000 $200,000 $250,000
San Mateo County
San Carlos
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2177
Demographics – Housing Tenure
Sources: U.S. Census; BAE, 2023.
2023 Total Occupied Housing Units450 – Downtown11,800 – San Carlos269,400 – San Mateo County

51.6%

69.9%

56.5%

48.4%

30.1%

43.5%
0%
20%40%60%80%
100%
Downtown
Specific Plan Area
San Carlos San Mateo
County
Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied
70% OwnerOccupied in San Carlos
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2178
Demographics – Consumer Segments
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2179
Demographics – Retail Trade Area
Key Trade Area Characteristics by DistanceSources: Esri Business Analyst; BAE, 2023 Trade Median MedianArea Population Households Age Income1/4 Mile 2,154 1,110 42.6 119,644 $ 1/2 Mile 7,488 3,356 42.9 142,045 $ \
1 Mile 17,608 6,936 44 177,659 $
2 Mile 60,237 23,284 43.3 177,404 $
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2180
Demographics – Retail Buying Power
Apparel and Services 240 $5,274 $62,710,000
Spending Average Amount
Index (a) Spent per Household
Computer 253 $757 $9,010,000Enterta inme nt & Re cre ation 240 $9,070 $107,840,000 Fees and Admissions 274 $1,950 $23,180,000TV/Video/Audio 222 $3,009 $35,780,000Toys/Games/Crafts/Hobbies (4) 220 $349 $4,140,000 Pets 237 $2,185 $25,980,000Sports/Recreation/Exercise Equipment (6) 233 $655 $7,790,000Recreational Vehicles and Fees (5) 256 $385 $4,570,000 Reading (8) 265 $335 $3,990,000Photo Equipment and Supplies (7) 248 $116 $1,380,000 Food
Catered Affairs (9) 282 $86 $1,020,000Food at Home 236 $16,023 $190,510,000 Alcoholic Beverages 267 $1,801 $21,420,000
Food Away from Home 239 $8,888 $105,680,000
Health 200 $1,347 $16,020,000
$4,264 $50,700,000
Child Care 258 $1,335 $15,880,000
Household Operations
Moving/Storage/Freight Express 250 $224 $2,670,000
Lawn and Garden (16) 249 $1,672 $19,880,000
Personal Care Products (18) 241 $1,329 $15,800,000Housekeeping Supplies (17) 228 $2,130 $25,330,000Smoking Products 173 $749 $8,910,000 School Books and Supplies (19) 230 $308 $3,660,000
Tota l Estima ted
Spending (b)
Tota l Pote ntial Consume r Spending
Household Furnishings a nd Equipme nt
$ 5 5 ,17 3 $ 6 5 6 ,0 2 0 ,0 0 0
2023 San Carlos Annual Retail Spending:$656 M total in these categories$55,100 per household$105.7 M Food Away from Home Sources: Esri Business Analyst; BAE, 2023.

January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2181
Demographics – Key Points
Highly affluent trade areaNot enough people live near downtown to sustain itA smart parking plan is critical to attract shoppers – parking study underway
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2182
Economics – Export Industries
Q2 2023 Employment in Export Sectors100,700 jobs26% of San Mateo County total(390,100 Q2 2023) January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2183
Economics – Growth Prospects
Employment Growth Prospects2023-2033:+5,000-10,000*
* Assumes 50% to 100% buildout range andaverage of 325 square feet per employee forprimarily life science occupiers Sources: City of San Carlos; BAE, 2023.

Life science/Office R&D Pipeline3.2M square feet
Downtown can capture new employee spendingRequires connecting downtown & innovation district January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2184
Fiscal Condition – San Carlos
General Fund Revenue 2023-24:$55.3 million
Sales Tax Generates:
24% of total
Business Registration
2%
Charges for Current
Services
9% Fines & Forfeitures
1%
From Other Agencies
0%
Licenses & Permits
5%
Other Revenues
2%
Other Taxes
4%
Property Taxes
32%
Sales Tax
24%
Transient Occupancy
Tax
8%
Use of Money &
Property
5%
PAMF Project
1%
Vehicle In Lieu
7%
Top General Fund Expense:
$25.1 M Fire & Police
Sources: City of San Carlos; BAE, 2023.

January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2185
Real Estate Market – Residential
Multifamily Rental Q3 2023:$2,809 average asking rent
Multifamily Rental Market Summary City of San Carlos San Mateo CountyInventory Units, Q3 2023 2,096 77,331Average Unit Size (sf) 873 822 Vacancy Rate 4.9% 5.6%
Avg. Monthly Asking Rents (per unit)Avg. Asking Rent, Q3 2022 $2,681 $2,835 Avg. Asking Rent, Q3 2023 $2,809 $2,846
% Change Q3 2022 - Q3 2023 4.8% 0.4%
Avg. Asking Rent, Q3 2013 $2,214 $2,257
Avg. Asking Rent, Q3 2023 $2,809 $2,846
% Change Q3 2013 - Q3 2023 26.9% 26.1%
New Deliveries (units), Q1 2013 - Q3 2023 272 10,055
Under Construction (units), Q3 2023 26 3,268
Single Family Home Median Price Q4 2023:$2.3MCondominiumMedian Price Q4 2023:$1.1M Sources: CoStar Group; BAE, 2023.

January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2186
Real Estate Market – Residential
Jobs drive demand for housingDemand in San Carlos pushed by new jobs in innovation district Downtown offers amenities for new multifamily development January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2187
Real Estate Market – Retail
Downtown Retail Inventory Q3 2023:550,000 square feet
Vacancy Rate Q3 2023:

0.9%(2.4% citywide; 4.5% countywide)Average Asking Rental Rate Q3 2023:$44.00 monthly per square foot NNN January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2188
Real Estate Market – Retail
61 34
17 15
8 7 66 444 3 222 11
0 10203040506070
Downtown Retail Mix Q3 2023Overall diverse mixReflects community’s spending patterns January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2189
Real Estate Market – Retail
Key Retail Trends
Commodity vs SpecialtyE-commerce – 15.4% of all retailOmnichannel Retailing – Role of Platforms Commodity
Specialty
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2190
Real Estate Market – Retail
Team Observations on Downtown
Authentic and small scale – popular eventsCompetes with nearby downtownsImpact of Laurel Street closures on goods retailersEquity issue related to use of public space –parklets?Enhance use of digital sales channels and social media January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2191
Real Estate Market – Office
City of San Carlos Office Inventory Q3 2023:2.0 M square feet Vacancy Rate Q3 2023:

18.8%(13.1% countywide)Average Asking Rental Rate Q3 2023:$54.00-$76.00 monthly per square foot, gross Sources: CoStar Group; BAE, 2023.

Office Market Summary, Q3 2023 City of San Carlos San Mateo CountyInventory (sf) 2,002,316 58,968,899Vacancy Rate 18.8% 13.1% Annual Direct Asking Rents (psf)Annual Gross Asking Rent (psf), Q3 2022 $54.36 $72.29 Annual Gross Asking Rent (psf), Q3 2023 $76.40 $72.25
% Change, Q3 2022 - Q3 2023 40.5% -0.1%
Annual Gross Asking Rent (psf), Q3 2013 $34.00 $41.85
Annual Gross Asking Rent (psf), Q3 2023 $76.40 $72.25
% Change, Q3 2013 - Q3 2023 124.7% 72.6%
Total Net Absorption (sf)Ten-Year Total Net Absorption (sf), 2013 - 2022 686,212 7,822,352One-Year Total Net Absorption (sf), 2022 42,408 593,369 Under Construction, Q3 2023Buildings Under Construction 1 16 Under Construction Inventory (sf) 17,847 2,295,443
New Deliveries, Q1 2013 - Q3 2023Number of Buildings 8 106Inventory Delivered (sf) 591,623 10,951,822 January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2192
Real Estate Market – Office
Office Trends
Demand for amenity-rich, sustainable spacePreference sites near CaltrainImpacts of remote workTypical 150,000 to 200,000 square foot project size January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2193
Real Estate Market – Office
Downtown Office Potential
Smaller floor plate projectsLocal-serving businesses/start-ups/co-workingPrior market study indicates 30,000 to 50,000 square feet demandChallenging economic conditions – capital markets January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2194
Downtown SWOT Update
S
W
O
T
Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats
o Affluent consumer base
with high level of retailspending
o Authentic, small-scale
village feel
o Diverse retail mix of
locally-owned businesses
o
Provides retail amenitiesfor nearby workers
o The City’s ‘Living Room’
where people go tosocialize & mingle
o 700 Block Laurel Street
Pedestrian Mall
o Caltrain station
- Traffic congestionchange in circulation
impairs access
- Limited availability of
affordable commercialspace
- Limited wayfinding- Lack of distinct visual
identity, no uniformparklet design standards
- Limited connectivity with
innovation district
- Lack of clear vision
statement anddifferentiation
- Capture spending by new
life science workers
- “Pop-up” retail in public
spaces
- Small, “creative” or coworking office
development
- Community
events/activities
- Arts/culture-
Potential for new transitoriented development nearCaltrain station - Improved wayfinding
signage
- Economic uncertainty- Goods retailers at risk
due to rising onlineshopping
- Other nearby DT
districts are ahead ofSan Carlos and alsohave better layouts thanDT San Carlos includingbetter circulation -
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2195
Questions for EDAC?
What feedback on the downtown are you hearing from prospective tenants who are searching for space? a. What attracts them to the downtown?b. What are their concerns? What kind of feedback is the community giving you re: type of events programming?What is your experience and thoughts on the City’s Formula Retail Ordinance? January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2196
Questions for EDAC?
What’s working and not working with respect to the City’s small business initiatives?To what degree would providing affordable housing downtown help with labor recruitment and retention?What is the current thinking on managing parking downtown? January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2197
Questions for EDAC?
Would a pop-up retail program work in the downtown’s public spaces? Vacant storefronts?Do you think that encouraging co-working space downtown would be valuable?How can economic inclusion be promoted downtown? Who are potential partners? January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2198

THANK YOU
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2199
San Carlos DTSP_Interdepartmental Feedback
1 / 8

0.00% 0

0.00% 0

0.00% 0

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Q1 What do we need to take into consideration for necessary upgrades to infrastructure and services such as:

Answered: 0 Skipped: 2
TOTAL 0
! No matching responses.

ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
EV charging
Lighting
Water features and drinking fountains.

Restrooms
Alley improvements

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2200
San Carlos DTSP_Interdepartmental Feedback
2 / 8

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Q2 Given the level of improvement to Laurel Street with the pedestrian plaza on 700 block, how much additional staff or resources would be needed to maintain and operate the following elements? For e.g:

Answered: 0 Skipped: 2
TOTAL 0
! No matching responses.

ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Rain gardens/green infrastructure
Outdoor seating
Water features
Paving
Other design features

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2201
San Carlos DTSP_Interdepartmental Feedback
3 / 8
Q3 Do you have any concerns or guidance regarding a curb-less street on the 600, 700, and 800 blocks of Laurel Street?
Answered: 0 Skipped: 2

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2202
San Carlos DTSP_Interdepartmental Feedback
4 / 8
Q4 Do you think a seasonal ice-skating rink as a program would be feasible in the project area? if so, does Harrignton Park as a location for the ice-skating rink work better?
Answered: 0 Skipped: 2

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2203
San Carlos DTSP_Interdepartmental Feedback
5 / 8
Q5 Can temporary exhibits/art be located within the 22’ wide emergency vehicle maneuver way?
Answered: 0 Skipped: 2

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2204
San Carlos DTSP_Interdepartmental Feedback
6 / 8
Q6 Are there any additional considerations we need to make regarding space needs for events and festivals?
Answered: 2 Skipped: 0

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2205
San Carlos DTSP_Interdepartmental Feedback
7 / 8
Q7 Is there any other permanent infrastructure or dedicated space(s) you would like to see for parks and rec programs, such as storage needs, etc.

Answered: 2 Skipped: 0

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2206
San Carlos DTSP_Interdepartmental Feedback
8 / 8
Q8 Are there specific design considerations we should make for pop-up retail, outdoor dining, etc. that would support local businesses.

Answered: 0 Skipped: 2

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2207
San Carlos DTSP_Interdepartmental Feedback
1 / 1
Q6 Are there any additional considerations we need to make regarding space needs for events and festivals?
Answered: 2 Skipped: 0
# RESPONSES DATE
1 storage; power sources specifically for events along all blocks; spacing to balance booth placements and emergency access; automatic/retractable crash bollards to close streets; 3/11/2024 3:55 PM
2 For our big events, we have booths along the blocks. ideally, they could be positioned back-toback down the blocks. But we must keep emergency access spacing. Whatever the new configuration is we will make the best of it! :)
3/7/2024 3:57 PM

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2208
San Carlos DTSP_Interdepartmental Feedback
1 / 1
Q7 Is there any other permanent infrastructure or dedicated space(s) you would like to see for parks and rec programs, such as storage needs, etc.

Answered: 2 Skipped: 0
# RESPONSES DATE
1 storage would be very helpful. public restrooms. water filling stations. 3/11/2024 3:55 PM 2 a permanent storage option would amazing! Also, removable bollards at key intersections to remove the need for water walls would be extremely helpful. 3/7/2024 3:57 PM

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2209
Parks, Recreation, and Culture Commission
(PRCC) Study Session
February 13, 2024

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2210
Parks, Recreation, and Culture Commission (PRCC) Study Session February 13, 2024
City Staff and the consultant team from WRT gave a presentation on the Downtown Specific Plan streetscape design ideas to the PRCC for their input.

This study session was held during the PRCC’s special meeting on February 13, 2024 in the Library second floor.

PRCC February 13, 2024 Study Session
Materials:
• Downtown Specific Plan PRCC Study
Session Presentation
• Meeting Summary

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2211

SAN CARLOS DOWNTOWN SPECIFIC PLAN

PRCC MEETING
FEBRUARY 13, 2024

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2212
I PAGE 2
Draft Vision & Guiding Principles
Urban Design Framework Public
Realm Design Concepts
Community Feedback Summary
Programming Concepts
Pedestrian Mall Examples
Group Exercise: Program Exploration
AGENDA

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2213

VISION & GUIDING PRINCIPLES

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2214
I PAGE 4
Downtown is the heart of San Carlosthat provides a
vibrant, pedestrian-friendly, safe, charming, futuristic, and accessible destination for the community. It is a
place for celebration and gathering that offers
diverse and authentic experiences through a draw of
food, retail, services, art and music in a visually
attractive environment for the growing community.

Downtown is an inclusive place with easy access for
all, opportunities for housing and businesses of
all types, and inviting spaces for all users.

Downtown San Carlos is a sustainable district, with
landscape that supports ecological and community
health & well-being.

DRAFT VISION STATEMENT

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2215
I PAGE 5
DRAFT
The Plan Area should strive to be
an equitable place offering social,
economic, housing and recreational
opportunities at varying levels of
affordability for all users along with
being resilient to address evolving
climate adaptation needs.

PLACEMAKING &

IDENTITY
The Downtown Specific Plan
should strive to create distinctive
character and identity unique to
San Carlos’ culture, history, and
context; defined by the physical
form and experience of the
downtown.

DOWNTOWN

VIBRANCY
The Downtown should achieve a level of
vibrancy and vitality that consistently
attracts users and shoppers through
enhancement of local businesses and
diverse programming, in a setting that is
distinctive, safe, and attractive.

MOBILITY &

CONNECTIVITY
Downtown should have a balance of
mobility modes that emphasizes
pedestrian, bicycle, and public
transit circulation along with
effective parking management
strategies, to support a socially
vibrant pedestrian-oriented
environment and to minimize autodependence to access downtown.

DRAFT GUIDING PRINCIPLES

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2216

URBAN DESIGN FRAMEWORK

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2217
I PAGE 7

PLACEMAKING
+ IDENTITY

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2218
I PAGE 8

DOWNTOWN

VIBRANCY

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2219
I PAGE 9

MOBILITY &

CONNECTIVITY

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2220

PUBLIC REALM DESIGN

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2221
I PAGE 11
CONCEPT 1
“THE PROMENADE”

CONCEPT ALTERNATIVES
700 BLOCK - LAUREL STREET BETWEEN CHERRY STREET AND OLIVE STREET CONCEPT 2
“THE GARDENS”

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2222
I PAGE 12

COMMUNITY FEEDBACK SUMMARY
PUBLIC REALM DESIGN: 700 BLOCK
Recurring themes:
• Desire for more greenery and intimate gathering spaces. • Preference for more outdoor dining spaces.
• Strong preference for a linear water feature with benches, while some expressed concerns about maintenance and safety.
• Emphasis on better collaboration between the city and local merchants.

Additional feedback:
• Concerns about mixing bikes into the pedestrian plaza, citing safety issues for children.
• Sugpport for skateboard facilities and careful selection of water features to avoid maintenance issues.
• Appreciation for the “groves”, combining natural elements with sun and shade. • Preference for non-allergy causing trees and plants.
• Sugpport to push buildings back to create more pedestrian space and ensure adequate bike parking.
• Support for interactive play fountains, unique street lighting, and considerations for bike rules, especially for teenagers.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2223
I PAGE 13

SCHEMATIC PLAN CROSS SECTION
(LOOKING NORTH)

LAUREL STREET
CONCEPT 1 - PARELLEL BOTH SIDES
600 & 800 BLOCKS (LOOKING NORTH)

EXISTING
(LOOKING NORTH)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2224
I PAGE 14

LAUREL STREET
CONCEPT 2 - PARALLEL, ALTERNATING SIDES
600 & 800 BLOCK (LOOKING NORTH)

SCHEMATIC PLAN CROSS SECTION
(LOOKING NORTH)

EXISTING
(LOOKING NORTH)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2225
I PAGE 15

COMMUNITY FEEDBACK SUMMARY
PUBLIC REALM DESIGN: 600 & 800 BLOCKS
Recurring themes:
• Suggestions for one-way streets adjacent to these blocks for public safet and comfort.
• Reservations against parallel parking due to its potential to slow down traffic and create congestion.
• Recommendation for best street trees selection.
• Strong preference for diversity in retail offerings and food or beer garden pop-up.

Additional feedback:
• There’s a safety concern about Wheeler Plaza parking lot being dangerous and lacking monitoring.
• Suggestions included a community gaming center where board games, chess, and puzzles can be played.
• More preference for sinuous concept 2 for traffic calming. • Recommednation for signage to keep cars off Laurel Street. • Mixed views on building heights along Laurel: some prefer low-rise buildings, while others are open to moderately taller structures (upto 3 stories).
• Regulations governing pop-up venues to ensure proper management and community benefits.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2226

IN PROGRESS PROGRAMMING CONCEPTS

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2227
I PAGE 17

IN PROGRESS

PROGRAMMING

CONCEPTS

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2228
I PAGE 18
IN PROGRESS ILLUSTRATIVE LAYOUT:

UNIFORM STREET DESIGN
600 BLOCK 700 BLOCK 800 BLOCK

WHEELER PLAZA

HARRIGTON PARK
BIANCHINI’S MARKET

PARKING LOT BANK OF AMERICA

PARKING LOT

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2229
I PAGE 19

IN PROGRESS

PROGRAMMING CONCEPTS
Gateway Groves
Plaza
Green Infrastructure
Vehicular
Programming
Festival Overflow & Support
Pedestrian Walkways
Infrastructure Inserts
LEGEND

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2230
I PAGE 20
600 BLOCK WHEELER PLAZA CONCEPT
2 EXPANDED PLAZA
1 2
1 GROVE WITH SEATING
3 POP-UP MARKET
4 FOOD TRUCKS WITH SEATING 5 PERFORMANCE AREA 6 MULTI-PURPOSE PROGRAMMING 3 4
5 6

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2231
I PAGE 21

PEDESTRIAN PATHS
2 6 OUTDOOR DINING
3 SHADE AND SEATING
6 1 WATER FEATURE
3 2 1
5 4
4 EVENT PLAZA/ PROGRAMMING 5 STAGE/ PERFORMANCE AREA
700 BLOCK HARRINGTON PARK CONCEPT
6 9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2232
I PAGE 22
800 BLOCK CONCEPT
1 EXPANDED SIDEWALK 4 FLEXIBLE USE / SPECIAL PAVING 5 SIDEWALK DINING 6 GROVE

SEATING
2 3

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
1 2
5 4
3 6
6 9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2233
I PAGE 23
1 EXPANDED SIDEWALK

MULTI-PURPOSE/ SMART LIGHT POLES
2 3

BIKE PARKING
1 2
3 INFRASTRUCTURE ELEMENTS

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2234
I PAGE 24

HOW DO WE USE LAUREL STREET
DURING EVENT DAYS?

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2235
I PAGE 25

HOW DO WE USE LAUREL STREET
DURING EVENT DAYS?
SCENARIO 1:
700 BLOCK PEDESTRIAN PLAZA
SCENARIO 2:
700 BLOCK PEDESTRIAN PLAZA +

TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF LAUREL
STREET
SCENARIO 3:
700 BLOCK PEDESTRIAN PLAZA +

TEMPORARY PEDESTRIANIZATION OF

LAUREL STREET & SAN

CARLOS AVENUE
600 700 800
600 700 800
600 700 800

EVENT DATE/DAY TIME ATTENDANCE LOCATION
San Carlos
Farmers'
Market
Every
Sunday,
Year-round

9.00 AM -

1.00 PM 2,000 Laurel Street
Art & Wine
Fair
Annual,
Month of
October

10.00 AM -

6.00 PM 50,000 Laurel Street
Goblin
Walk
Friday,
October 27,
2023

4.00 PM -

5.30 PM 2,000 Laurel Street
Night of
Holiday
Lights
Annual,
Month of
December
5:00 PM -
8:30 PM 3,000 Laurel Street
Block Party July/ August
2024

4.00 PM -

8.00 PM 2,000 Laurel Street
Laurel Street 700 Block Closure/ Pedestrian Plaza
Temporary Pedestrianization Scenarios

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2236
I PAGE 26

EVENT DAYS
CAPACITY TESTING :CURB ALIGNED ARRANGEMENT
Cherry StreetOlive Street
San Carlos Ave
Laurel Street

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2237
I PAGE 27

EVENT DAYS
CAPACITY TESTING: CENTER ALIGNED ARRANGEMENT
Cherry StreetOlive Street
San Carlos Ave
Laurel Street

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2238

PEDESTRIAN MALL EXAMPLES

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2239
I PAGE 29
PRECEDENTS: PEDESTRIAN MALL | ITHACA COMMONS, NY

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2240
I PAGE 30
PRECEDENTS: PEDESTRIAN MALL | PEARL STREET, BOULDER, CO

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2241
I PAGE 31
PRECEDENTS: PEDESTRIAN MALL | CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2242
I PAGE 32
PRECEDENTS: CASTRO STREET, MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2243
I PAGE 33
PRECEDENTS: BURLINGAME AVENUE, BURLINGAME, CA

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2244
I PAGE 34
PRECEDENTS: OTHER PROGRAM IDEAS

FORT COLLINS FORT COLLINS SANTANA ROW

OCTAVIA BLVD OCTAVIA BLVD

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2245
I PAGE 35

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2246
I PAGE 36
ACTIVITY 1 - Provide Inputs on the Public Realm Design Concept ACTIVITY 2 - Hands-on Excercise
GROUP EXERCISE: PROGRAM EXPLORATION

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2247

THANK YOU

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2248

1 Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Commission (PRCC) Meeting 02/13/2024 | 6:00pm | San Carlos Library Community Room

PARK AND RECREATION CULTURAL COMMISSION MEETING NOTES
Attendees:

San Carlos City Team:
• Lisa Porras, lanning Manager
• Akanksha Chopra, Associate Planner
• Tyler Muela, Recreation Manager
WRT:
• James Stickley, Principal
• Rohit Tak, Urban Designer
• Can Liu, Landscape Architect
• Ashwin Nambiar, Urban designer
PRC Committee:
• Bob Bollier, Chair
• Cecile Lee
• Mark Maxwell
• John Durkin
• Julie Lubetkin (Alternate)
PRCC Meeting Agenda:
• Welcome and Intro (5min)
• Presentation with design and programming concepts (30 min) • Hands on exercise + discussion with scaled maps (1hr) • Wrap up.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2249

2 Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Commission (PRCC) Meeting 02/13/2024 | 6:00pm | San Carlos Library Community Room

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2250

3 Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Commission (PRCC) Meeting 02/13/2024 | 6:00pm | San Carlos Library Community Room PRCC COMMITTEE FEEDBACK:

A. Parklets and Outdoor Dining
• The committee expressed concern about losing parklet space which could affect the businesses that rely on the parklets to provide outdoor dining experience, and the resulting loss of revenue for the city; and if alternate or outdoor dining is being considered in the public realm design concepts? B. Parking and Alleys
• The committee wanted to know if existing street parking was considered in the overall parking strategy, and what was the net gain or loss of street parking spaces. • The committee asked if the Sam Trans is moving out of San Carlos, will the Sam Trans garage be available for public use? and what strategy is worked out to encourage public to park in the garage space.
• The committee suggested to consider at least 5 minutes parking time for quick access to the businesses.
• The committee highlighted that the alleys on the eastside of Laurel Street on the 700 block offer an opportunity to accommodate organized parking.

C. Fire and Emergency Access
• Ensure consideration for emergency evacuation and fire access in the public realm design. • The current alignment of market booths along the curb work better to provide fire access in the center.

Consider maintaining that in the future.

D. Streetscape Design
• The committee recommended to incorporate median design on San Carlos Avenue as a part of street design strategy.
• The committee suggested to include the landscaping/street design strategy for Laurel Street to be continued beyond 800 block.
• The committee suggested to consider pet-friendly design strategies in the public realm design.

E. Harrington Park and Wheeler Plaza
• The stage in Harrington Park was in use when Farmers Market used to be on Thursday night. The committee asked if this use of the stage can be reintroduced for small events. • The committee recommended restrooms to be included in Wheeler Plaza. • The committee stressed on the need to rethink the new name for Wheeler Plaza Public Space.

F. Other Comments/Questions
• The committee recommended to include 500 block of Laurel Street in the streetscape design. • The committee wanted to know about the extent of cohesive façade design that the city want the building edges to reflect.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2251

4 Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Commission (PRCC) Meeting 02/13/2024 | 6:00pm | San Carlos Library Community Room HANDS ON EXERCISE + DISCUSSION
This exercise was introduced work with the committee and gather feedback on the proposed programs as well as explore ideas to introduce new programs in the public space. In this provcess, the following program ideas were listed:

A. General Themes:
• Public restrooms
• Shade and seating
• ADA compliance
B. Elderly Oriented Programs:
• Seating with provision for parking walkers, and wheelchairs. • Drop-off zones for seniors.

C. Family Oriented Programs:
• Seating for families to sit together.

D. Youth Oriented Programs:
• Dedicated skateboard zone preferably centrally located in downtown. • 700 block should be a dismount zone for skateboards, cycles, scooters etc. • Affordable small bite places such as boba, pita etc., supported by informal hangout spaces. • Laser Tags
• Programs as provided in the Mission Bay such as bowling, mini-golf, etc.?. • Interactive dancing installation.
• Bouldering/ climbing walls.

E. Children Oriented Programs:
• Hopscotch – interactive patterns in the plaza.
• Play sculptures, animal forms.
• Chess pattern
• Tic-tac-toe
• Temporary ice-skating ring.

F. Utility and Services
• WiFi and power outlets.
• Restrooms beyond 800 block on Laurel Street.

G. Other programs to consider:
• Harrington Park
o Retractable awning for Harrington Park stage.
o Movie screen in Harrington Park.
o Memorial Bricks in Harrington Park
o Fountain for pets.
• Information posting kiosk/district map and better signage throughout. • Public art engaging all ages.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2252

5 Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Commission (PRCC) Meeting 02/13/2024 | 6:00pm | San Carlos Library Community Room • Wheeler Plaza
o Family and gender-neutral restrooms.
o Stage
o Event Space
• Storage for event space in the west-side alleys of 700 block on Laurel Street.

H. Capacity Study for Market Booths
• The committee recommended to increase the number and frequency of portable restrooms during high footfall events.
• The Park and Rec Department advised to ensure a 12-15 feet clear width for fire access is maintained when placing farmers market booths.
• The Park and Rec Department advised to consider relocating barricades along cross streets to Laurel, positioning them after the alleys, to ensure unobstructed circulation from El Camino Real into the alleys. • The Park and Rec Department recommended to evaluate the feasibility of installing dismantlable shade structures at intersections during street closures, as these are highly utilized.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2253
Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) Study
Session
March 13, 2024

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2254
Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) Study Session
March 13, 2024
City Staff and the consultant team from WRT gave a presentation on the Downtown Specific Plan streetscape design ideas to the YAC for their input. This study session was held during the YAC’s regular meeting on March 13, 2024 in Youth Center, Dance Studio.

YAC March 13, 2024 Study Session Materials
• Downtown Specific Plan YAC Study Session Presentation • Meeting Summary

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2255

SAN CARLOS DOWNTOWN SPECIFIC PLAN

YOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING
MARCH 13. 2024

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2256
I PAGE 2
Draft Vision & Guiding Principles
Urban Design Framework
Public Realm Design Concepts
Community Feedback Summary
Programming Concepts
Pedestrian Mall Examples
Discussion
AGENDA

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2257

VISION & GUIDING PRINCIPLES

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2258
I PAGE
4 Downtown is the heart of San Carlos that
provides a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly, safe,
charming, futuristic, and accessible destination for
the community. It is a place for celebration and
gathering that offers diverse and authentic
experiences through a draw of food, retail,
services, art and music in a visually attractive
environment for the growing community. Downtown
is an inclusive place with easy access for all,
opportunities for housing and businesses of
all types, and inviting spaces for all users.

Downtown San Carlos is a sustainable district,
with landscape that supports ecological and
community health & well-being.

DRAFT VISION STATEMENT

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2259
I PAGE 5

VISION GUIDING PRINCIPLES

DRAFT DRAFT
Downtown is the heart of San
Carlos that provides a vibrant,
pedestrian-friendly, safe, charming,
futuristic, and accessible
destination for the community.

It is a place for celebration and
gathering that offers diverse and
authentic experiences through
a draw of food, retail, services,
art and music in a visually
attractive environment for the
growing community. Downtown
is an inclusive place with easy
access for all, opportunities for
housing and businesses of all
types, and inviting spaces for all
users. Downtown San Carlos is a
sustainable district, with landscape
that supports ecological and
community health & well-being.

1. Y
EQUITY + RESILIENCE

PLACEMAKING
& IDENTITY

DOWNTOWN

VIBRANCY

MOBILITY &

CONNECTIVITY
The Plan Area should strive to be
an equitable place offering social,
economic, housing and recreational
opportunities at varying levels of
affordability for all users along with
being resilient to address evolving
climate adaptation needs.

The Downtown Specific Plan
should strive to create distinctive
character and identity unique to
San Carlos’ culture, history, and
context; defined by the physical
form and experience of the
downtown.

The Downtown should achieve a level
of vibrancy and vitality that consistently
attracts users and shoppers through
enhancement of local businesses and
diverse programming, in a setting that is
distinctive, safe, and attractive.

Downtown should have a balance
of mobility modes that emphasizes
pedestrian, bicycle, and public
transit circulation along with
effective parking management
strategies, to support a socially
vibrant pedestrian-oriented
environment and to minimize autodependence to access downtown.

DRAFT GUIDING PRINCIPLES

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2260

URBAN DESIGN FRAMEWORK

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2261
I PAGE 7

PLACEMAKING
+ IDENTITY

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2262
I PAGE 8

DOWNTOWN

VIBRANCY

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2263
I PAGE 9

MOBILITY &

CONNECTIVITY

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2264

PUBLIC REALM DESIGN

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2265
I PAGE 11
CONCEPT 1
“THE PROMENADE”

CONCEPT ALTERNATIVES
CONCEPT 2
“THE GARDENS”
700 BLOCK - LAUREL STREET BETWEEN CHERRY STREET AND OLIVE STREET

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2266
I PAGE 12
Key themes:
• Suggestions to include more greenery and intimate gathering spaces. • Suggestions for outdoor dining opportunities .
• Strong preference for a linear water feature with benches, with well thought of maintenance and safety around the water feature. • Concerns about mixing bikes into the pedestrian plaza, citing safety issues for children.
• Preference for the idea of “groves” as a recurring design element, combining natural elements with sun and shade.
• Preference for non-allergy causing trees and plants.
• Support for interactive play fountains, unique street lighting, and considerations for bike rules, especially for teenagers. • Suggestion for better collaboration between the city and local merchants.

PUBLIC REALM DESIGN: 700 BLOCK OF LAUREL STREET

COMMUNITY FEEDBACK SUMMARY (IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2267
I PAGE 13
69’ BUILDING FACE TO BUILDING FACE
40’ CURB TO CURB
69’ BUILDING FACE TO BUILDING FACE
50’ CURB TO CURB

SCHEMATIC PLAN CROSS SECTION

LAUREL STREET
CONCEPT 1 - PARALLEL BOTH SIDES
600 & 800 BLOCKS
(LOOKING NORTH)
(LOOKING NORTH)

EXISTING
(LOOKING NORTH)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2268
I PAGE 14
69’ BUILDING FACE TO BUILDING FACE
50’ CURB TO CURB

LAUREL STREET
CONCEPT 2 - PARALLEL, ALTERNATING SIDES
600 & 800 BLOCK

SCHEMATIC PLAN
(LOOKING NORTH)

CROSS SECTION
(LOOKING NORTH)

EXISTING
(LOOKING NORTH)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2269
I PAGE 15
Key themes:
• More preference for sinuous concept 2 for traffic calming. • Suggestions for refined street network with strategies including oneway streets, for commuter safety and comfort. • Reservations against parallel parking due to its potential to slow down traffic and create congestion.
• Suggestions included a community gaming center where board games, chess, and puzzles can be played.
• Recommendation for signage to keep cars off Laurel Street. • Strong preference for active street edge showcasing diversity in retail offerings and food pop-ups.
• Regulations governing pop-up venues to ensure proper management and community benefits.

PUBLIC REALM DESIGN: 600 & 800 BLOCKS

COMMUNITY FEEDBACK SUMMARY

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2270

IN PROGRESS PROGRAMMING CONCEPTS

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2271
I PAGE 17

IN PROGRESS

PROGRAMMING

CONCEPTS
DRAFT
DRAFT

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2272
I PAGE 18
IN PROGRESS ILLUSTRATIVE LAYOUT:UNIFORM STREET DESIGN
LAUREL STREET 600,700 & 800 BLOCKS AND SAN CARLOS AVENUE 1100 & 1200 BLOCKS 600 BLOCK 700 BLOCK 800 BLOCK

WHEELER PLAZA

HARRINGTON
PARK
BIANCHINI’S MARKET

PARKING LOT

BANK OF AMERICA

PARKING LOT
1200 BLOCK
DRAFT
1100 BLOCK

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2273
I PAGE 19
600 BLOCK WHEELER PLAZA CONCEPT

EXPANDED PLAZA
5 2
1 2
1 GROVE WITH SEATING
3 POP-UP MARKET
4 FOOD TRUCKS WITH SEATING 5 PERFORMANCE AREA 6 MULTI-PURPOSE PROGRAMMING 3 4
6 WHEELER PLAZA

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2274
I PAGE 20

PEDESTRIAN PATHS
2 OUTDOOR DINING
3 SHADE AND SEATING
6 6
1 WATER FEATURE
3 2 1
5 4
4 EVENT PLAZA/ PROGRAMMING 5 STAGE/ PERFORMANCE AREA
700 BLOCK HARRINGTON PARK CONCEPT
6 HARRINGTON
PARK

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2275
I PAGE 21
800 BLOCK CONCEPT
1 EXPANDED SIDEWALK 4 FLEXIBLE USE / SPECIAL PAVING 5 SIDEWALK DINING 6 GROVE

SEATING
2 3

STORM WATER MANAGEMENT
1 2
5 4
3 6
6 BIANCHINI’S

PARKING LOT

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2276
I PAGE 22
DRAFT

IN PROGRESS PROGRAMMING CONCEPTS
BIANCHINI’S

PARKING LOT

HARRINGTON
PARK

WHEELER PLAZA

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2277
I PAGE 23
600 BLOCK WHEELER PLAZA CONCEPT

STAGE AND SEATING

TEMPORARY

PROGRAMMES

PERMANENT

PROGRAMMES DRAFT

POP-UP STALLS

WHEELER PLAZA

DISMOUNT ZONE SEASONAL ICE SKATING RINK

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2278
I PAGE 24
700 BLOCK HARRINGTON PARK CONCEPT

SHADED FAMILY SEATING INTERACTIVE PAVING PATTERNS

TEMPORARY

PROGRAMMES

PERMANENT

PROGRAMMES
DRAFT

HARRINGTON
PARK

BANK OF AMERICA

PARKING LOT

FESTIVAL

OVERFLOW AND

SUPPORT

INTERACTIVE ART INSTALLATION TEMPORARY CLIMBING WALL

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2279
I PAGE 25
800 BLOCK CONCEPT

ARTIST EXHIBITIONS WIFI AND CHARGING STATION

TEMPORARY

PROGRAMMES

PERMANENT

PROGRAMMES
BIANCHINI’S

PARKING LOT

FESTIVAL

OVERFLOW AND
DRAFT

SUPPORT

FOOD TRUCKS WITH SEATING FLEXIBLE USE / SPECIAL PAVING

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2280

PEDESTRIAN MALL EXAMPLES

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2281
I PAGE 27
PRECEDENTS: PEDESTRIAN MALL | ITHACA COMMONS, NY

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2282
I PAGE 28
PRECEDENTS: PEDESTRIAN MALL | PEARL STREET, BOULDER, CO

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2283
I PAGE 29
PRECEDENTS: PEDESTRIAN MALL | CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2284
I PAGE 30
PRECEDENTS: BURLINGAME AVENUE, BURLINGAME, CA

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2285
I PAGE 31
PRECEDENTS: OTHER PROGRAM IDEAS

FORT COLLINS FORT COLLINS SANTANA ROW

OCTAVIA BLVD OCTAVIA BLVD

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2286

DISCUSSION

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2287

THANK YOU

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2288

1 Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Meeting
03/13/2024 | 6:00pm | San Carlos Youth Center

YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL (YAC) MEETING
March 13, 2024
YAC Meeting Agenda:

The meeting agenda included a presentation from Lisa Porras, Planning Manager, and the consultant team, WRT, and focused on the streetscape design and programming concepts for the Downtown Specific Plan Area; followed by a discussion, group activity, and a visual reference survey to understand Youth Advisory Committee’s expectations from the Downtown Specific Plan. This meeting provided the city staff and the consultant team with a list of programs and public space design elements to consider in the Downtown Specific Plan Area.

The feedback from the Youth Advisory Council is summarized below.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2289

2 Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Meeting
03/13/2024 | 6:00pm | San Carlos Youth Center
YAC Group Activity and Input
Program Elements: The YAC recommended the following program elements for the Laurel Street blocks: 600, 700, and 800, and for Wheeler Plaza and Harrington Park.
• Roller and ice-staking rinks
• Pop-up snack stalls that allow businesses to rotate weekly • Food trucks
• Street festival area
• Mini golf as an entertainment option
• Bowling alley, arcade, or similar fun activity
• Designated informal eating area
• Permanent art display boxes for the community to display art as a rotating activity • Movie theatre
Public Space Design Elements: to improve the quality of public space through design. • Include shade-giving canopy trees near Wheeler Plaza
• The idea of “groves” is preferred
• Enhance Harrington Park and provide better visibility from the street to add a safety component • Explore alleyway lighting as a design element
• Introduce benches along the street and in the plazas
• Introduce informal gathering areas
Infrastructure Elements:

Introduce drinking water fountains and water bottle filling stations • Include the storm/rain gardens in the street design for a sustainable and resilient downtown • Provide trash bins with segregated recycle and compost cans • Introduce an EV charging facility integrated with parking • Provide permanent public restrooms
Parking:
• Increase parking visibility with digital signage indicating available spaces • Introduce parking meters/pick-up zones in the alley adjacent to Wheeler Plaza • Create drop-off/pick-up or 10-minute parking zones on Laurel Street, near Starbucks • Introduce a new name for Wheeler Plaza
• Explore the feasibility of a parking garage
• Overall, introduce time restrictions for parking along Laurel Street so that the customers as well as employees do not occupy the parking spots for a longer time • Include ADA parking spaces
Downtown Business Strategy: The members suggested the following strategies to make the downtown businesses more diverse, affordable, and well spread out across the three blocks of Laurel Street (600, 700, and 800).

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2290

3 Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Meeting
03/13/2024 | 6:00pm | San Carlos Youth Center
• Encourage establishments/stores selling office supplies/stationery • Encourage addition of popular retail stores like Lululemon • Promote affordable small businesses and diverse food options, for instance, invite specific businesses like Jamba Juice and Baskin Robbins to provide cheaper quick-eat options • Consider incentivizing stores to set up businesses in the 800 block to have a more even spread of businesses in the three downtown blocks
• Suggest adding teenage-friendly clothing stores that are fun and engaging Visual Preference Survey
The YAC members participated in the visual preference survey by placing a colored stickers on the programs they preferred or supported in the downtown area. The categories programs that were included in the survey were:
• Children and youth programs
• Food and beverage/ pop-up market
• Pedestrian-oriented programs
• Event day programs
• Infrastructure and amenities
The exercise concluded with the following understanding:
o The YAC members prefer play facilities, interactive paving patterns, and interactive sculpture as programs for children and youth. An outdoor climbing wall was not preferred as a program to introduce in the Specific Plan area.
o From the food and beverages standpoint, the YAC members prefer programs such as food trucks, micro-retail facilities, outdoor dining along wide sidewalks, and pop-up markets. o Regarding the pedestrian-oriented programs, the YAC members prefer the programs including the groves with seating, multi-purpose plaza spaces, and the family seating area. The bike dismount zone was not a preferred programming concept for YAC.
o For the event day programs, the YAC members prefer an introduction to the performance area consisting of a stage, movie screen, and associated seating area. The members also prefer the seasonal ice staking rink and art display zones.
o From the infrastructure standpoint, the YAC members prefer drinking water fountains, restrooms, and green infrastructure elements.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2291

4 Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Meeting
03/13/2024 | 6:00pm | San Carlos Youth Center
YAC Committee Members participating in the group activity.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2292
Downtown Business Stakeholder Meeting
August 28, 2024

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2293
Downtown Business Stakeholder Meeting
Tuesday, August 28, 2024
The City staff and consulting team from WRT held a Downtown Businesses Stakeholder meeting on August 28th to share the findings from the parking and traffic analyses, to present the refined street designs and to gather input. To invite business owners, managers, and employees to the August 28 Business Stakeholder meeting, City staff went door-to-door to all businesses within the Downtown Specific Plan area. The Downtown Business Stakeholder meeting was hosted by Stamp Bar and Grill with 27 representatives from the business community in attendance.

Meeting Materials.
• Presentation
• Business Stakeholder Feedback Summary

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2294
SAN CARLOS DOWNTOWN-SPECIFIC PLAN + STREETSCAPE MASTER PLAN PROJECT August 28,2024

SAN CARLOS DOWNTOWN BUSINESS STAKEHOLDER MEETING

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2295
• Welcome & Introductions
• Purpose of the Meeting / Community Outreach
• Project Overview / Goals and Objectives
• Refined Street Designs • Traffic, Circulation, and Parking Outcomes • Summary of Benefits
• Next Steps
All Commissions Meeting, Tuesday, Sept 3, 7 pm (Library, 2nd Floor) City Council Meeting, Sept 23, 7 pm (Council Chambers) • Q&A Meeting Agenda

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2296

PURPOSE OF
THE MEETING • Present refined street
designs and their
effects on traffic and
parking outcomes
• Input received will be
shared with the City
Council at their Sept.
23, 2024 meeting

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2297
Community Outreach
“The City of San Carlos will work with residents, property owners, business owners, committees, commissions, the Chamber of Commerce, and all other interested members of the community to develop a plan to understand and ensure that the downtown meets the needs of the community and businesses now and into the future.” -– City Council Downtown Strategic Objective DTAC endorsement, March 19, 2024
•DOWNTOWN BUSINESS STAKEHOLDER MEETING, Aug. 28, 2024
•DTAC’s Endorsed Street Designs Presented to the Planning and Transportation Commission and City Council – May, June 2024 •Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) Study Session, March 13, 2024 •Parks, Recreation, and Culture Commission (PRCC) Study Session, February 13, 2024
•Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) Study
Session, January 23, 2024
•Ideation Workshop (In-Person), December 9, 2023
• Community Survey •Ideation Workshop (Virtual), December 6, 2023 •Downtown Business Stakeholder Meeting, May 24, 2023
•Downtown Specific Plan – Status Update and Progress Report on 4/17 and 4/24, 2023
•Results from Community Survey 2, March 1, 2023 to April 30, 2023 •Coffee and Comments Open House, March 4, 2023
•Downtown Community Workshop #2, February 15, 2023
•Downtown Community Workshop #1, August 31, 2022
•Results from Community Survey 1, August 8, 2022 to January 15, 2023
•Stakeholder Focus Group Interviews, August 22, 2022

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2298

PROJECT OVERVIEW

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2299
The Downtown should strive to be
an equitable place offering social,
economic, housing and
recreational opportunities at
varying levels of affordability for
all users along with being resilient
to address evolving climate
adaptation needs.

PLACEMAKING &

IDENTITY
The Downtown Specific Plan
should strive to create distinctive
character and identity unique to
San Carlos’ culture, history, and
context; defined by the physical
form and experience of the
downtown.

DOWNTOWN

VIBRANCY
The Downtown should achieve a level
of vibrancy and vitality that consistently
attracts users and shoppers through
enhancement of local businesses and
diverse programming, in a setting that is
distinctive, safe, and attractive.

MOBILITY &

CONNECTIVITY
Downtown should have a balance
of mobility modes that emphasizes
pedestrian, bicycle, and public
transit circulation along with
effective parking management
strategies, to support a socially
vibrant pedestrian-oriented
environment and to minimize
auto- dependence to access
downtown.

What are the Vision and Guiding Principles
for this project?
Downtown San Carlos is….. • Heart of San Carlos
• Place for celebration and gathering
• Diverse and authentic experiences
• Inclusive place
• Inviting spaces for all users
• Sustainable district • Supports ecological and community health & well-being

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2300

EXISTING CIRCULATION
Proposed Pedestrian Priority Zone with Permanent Closure of 700 Laurel Block

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2301
DRAFT ILLUSTRATIVE STREETSCAPE LAYOUT (The “Downtown Core”) LAUREL STREET 600, 700 & 800 BLOCKS AND SAN CARLOS AVENUE 1100 & 1200 BLOCKS 1100 BLOCK 1200 BLOCK CHERRY ST OLIVE ST

LAUREL ST SAN CARLOS AVE

EL CAMINO REAL

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2302
DRAFT ILLUSTRATIVE STREETSCAPE LAYOUT (South of Arroyo Ave) LAUREL STREET 900, 1000 & 1100 BLOCKS (“SoLa” District)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2303
600 BLOCK OF LAUREL STREET
Alternate
Parallel
Parking
Green
Infrastructure
Alternate
Parallel
Parking
Vehicular
Lanes
Curb-less
Design
Class III
Bike Lane CHERRY ST

LAUREL ST SAN CARLOS AVE
Stop

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2304

TREES FOR SHADE MATERIALS TO CREATE PLAZA EXPERIENCE POP-UP MARKET

IN WHEELER PLAZA

EXPANDED OUTDOOR DINING AND PUBLIC SEATING IN WHEELER
PLAZA

MULTI-PURPOSE PROGRAMMING

IN WHEELER PLAZA

SPACE FOR PERFORMANCES IN

WHEELER PLAZA

EXAMPLES OF ACTIVITIES
AS POSSIBLE WAYS TO ACTIVATE THE 600 BLOCK OF LAUREL STREET

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2305
700 BLOCK OF LAUREL STREET - PEDESTRIAN PLAZA (“Centennial Plaza”) Green
Infrastructure
Curb-less
Design
Emergency
Access
Groves Central Plaza
Harrington Park OLIVE ST

LAUREL ST CHERRY ST
Alley / Parking Area

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2306

OUTDOOR DINING

PUBLIC ART WATER FEATURE PUBLIC SEATING

EVENT PLAZA/ PROGRAMMING STAGE/ PERFORMANCE AREA

EXAMPLES OF ACTIVITIES
AS POSSIBLE WAYS TO ACTIVATE THE 700 BLOCK OF LAUREL STREET

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2307
800 BLOCK OF LAUREL STREET
Alternate
Parallel
Parking
Green
Infrastructure
Alternate
Parallel
Parking
Curb-less
Design
Class III
Bike Lane
Vehicular
Lanes

LAUREL ST OLIVE ST

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2308

FLEXIBLE USE / SPECIAL PAVING

EXAMPLES OF ACTIVITIES
AS POSSIBLE WAYS TO ACTIVATE THE 800 BLOCK OF LAUREL STREET

TREES FOR SHADING

WIDER SIDEWALKS

SIDEWALK DINING

STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PUBLIC SEATING

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2309

LAUREL STREET
BLOCK 600 & 800 (Looking North)

EXISTING
(LOOKING NORTH)

PROPOSED

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2310
LAUREL STREET (Festival/ Market Scenario)
BLOCK 600 & 800 (Looking North)

EXISTING
(LOOKING NORTH)

PROPOSED

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2311
LAUREL STREET - 700 Block View

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2312

SAN CARLOS AVENUE
BLOCKS 1100 & 1200
(Looking Towards the Caltrain Station)

EXISTING
(LOOKING EAST)

PROPOSED
RT0

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2313
Slide 19
RT0 Symbolic feature- gateway element
Rohit Tak, 2024-08-27T16:27:37.335

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2314

ARROYO AVENUE
(Looking Towards El Camino Real)

PROPOSED

EXISTING
(LOOKING EAST)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2315

BRITTAN AVENUE
(Looking East)

EXISTING
(LOOKING EAST)

PROPOSED

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2316
EL CAMINO REAL (Looking North)

EXISTING
(LOOKING NORTH

PROPOSED

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2317

TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION OUTCOMES

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2318

EXISTING CIRCULATION
Proposed Pedestrian Priority Zone with Permanent Closure of 700 Laurel Block

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2319

KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Traffic adapts to changes in the network. • Near-term traffic forecast shows little change, even with road diets on San Carlos Ave and El Camino Real. • We will gain improved connections between Downtown, Caltrain and East San Carlos, with wider sidewalks and bike facilities. • Long-term traffic forecast shows slower traffic and queues due to local and regional growth, but still at a manageable level. • Downtown Specific Plan will incrementally add to the travel times and queues. • TDM programs will lead to increases in transit, walking and bicycling and lessen the effects of increased traffic.

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2320

PARKING OUTCOMES

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2321
STREETSCAPE PARKING CHANGES and OUTCOMES
• 47 spaces needed to achieve wider sidewalks, protected bike lanes, expanded dining areas, etc. • 102 on-street parking spaces and 168 spaces at Wheeler Garage are available at peak hours. CHERRY ST OLIVE ST

LAUREL ST SAN CARLOS AVE

EL CAMINO REAL

WALNUTL ST

WHEELER GARAGE
-25
-7
-15
1 1
2 1 6
4 3
11 41 7 2
2 10 11
168

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2322

KEY TAKEAWAYS
• To get more sidewalk space, better
bike lanes, more outdoor dining
space, etc. • Need for 47 spaces (4% of 1,150
total on-street spaces) • 102 empty on-street spaces within 1 block of Laurel • +168 empty Wheeler Garage
spaces
• + another 73 spaces within the
Plan area
• Little available parking on 600
& 800 blocks of Laurel and lots
behind 700 block
• Yet, many unoccupied spaces
on Walnut & Elm Streets and in
Wheeler Garage, SamTrans
Garage, and Caltrain lot • Parking management strategies underway as part of Downtown
Specific Plan

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2323

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2324

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS
DESIGN CHANGES: • Significantly widened sidewalks (20’) • Protected bike lanes • Outdoor dining space • Urban greening/ groves and rain gardens • Other amenities such as outdoor seating, event spaces, public art, drinking fountains, charging
stations
• Connectivity between Downtown, Caltrain,
and East San Carlos for all modes of travel
OUTCOMES: • Added downtown vitality, vibrancy
• Improved shopping and dining experience
• Enhanced pedestrian experience
• Increase in visitors
• More space for downtown programming, and
activities
• Resulting in people spending more time in
downtown San Carlos

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2325

NEXT STEPS

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2326
• All Commissions Meeting, Tuesday, Sept 3, 7 pm (Library, 2nd Floor) • City Council Meeting, Sept 23, 7 pm (Council Chambers) Next Steps

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2327

THANK YOU
www.sancarlosdowntownplan.com
Questions? [email protected]

COMMENTS AND QUESTIONS

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2328

1 Downtown Business Stakeholder Meeting
08/28/2024 | 8:00 am | Stamp Bar & Grill

DOWNTOWN BUSINESS STAKEHOLDER MEETING
August 28, 2024
Downtown Business Stakeholder Meeting Agenda
The meeting agenda included a presentation from Lisa Porras, Planning Manager, and the consultant team, WRT, and focused on the draft streetscape designs and associated traffic and parking outcomes in the Downtown Specific Plan Area. The primary audience were Downtown business community members including business owners, managers, and employees who provided city staff and the consultant team comments and questions to consider in the Downtown Specific Plan Area. The feedback from Downtown business stakeholders is summarized below.

Downtown Business Stakeholder Input
Project Overview:

1. What loading zones will be provided for the retail businesses on Laurel?

2. What is the net loss of parking on Laurel, and what do you hope to gain in the alleys?

3. Will the parklet structures remain in the 600 block of Laurel as part of this Specific Plan?

4. There has not been architectural control over the look/feel of the parklets. Will the City have architectural control over the look/feel of the parklets so they look cohesive?

5. What is the timeline for project, so that we don’t continue to invest into our own storefronts if changes are coming?

6. For the 900 and 1000 blocks on Laurel, will the parklets be eliminated? Will the sidewalks be widened, as well?

7. What is the timeline for the construction to the 600 to 800 blocks on Laurel? Will businesses be closed?

8. Businesses have spent a lot of time and money to build patios and parklets with positive feedback from the community on the parklets. You should ask the public which style they want, or to keep the current parklets as they are.

9. The construction of the last large roadway project was not well thought-out. The work was done one block at a time, and trees were torn down. We need deciduous trees because the existing trees’ leaves fall every October.

10. What would the whole project cost? Who is going to pay for it?

11. The farmer’s market is a beautiful thing to the community, but can we move the farmer’s market to side streets?

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2329

2 Downtown Business Stakeholder Meeting
08/28/2024 | 8:00 am | Stamp Bar & Grill

12. The market can be moved next week. The City doesn’t have to wait until the downtown plan is approved to move it.

Traffic and Circulation Items:

1. Traffic still flows, but have you studied the effect of the 700 block closure to the businesses on the 600 block in terms of access, visibility, encouragement of getting to the 600 block? The traffic to the 600 block has been diminished because of the 700 block.

2. Is the 700 block permanently closed?

3. When the 700 block was being considered by the City Council, some attendees via Zoom raised their hand to speak but were not called upon and could not share their input.

4. Have you considered the impact to delivery drivers (UPS, FedEx)? Our delivery people are frustrated.

5. Have you done any studies showing how busier the alleys are since the 700 block closure? People have been cutting through. We should be using signage of how we want people to reach the 600 block.

Parking Outcomes

1. On the 600 block, would the parallel parking accommodate any accessible parking?

2. What is the peak time for parking? The peak times should be reconsidered to include weekends and other weekday hours.

3. We could give you the retail trends to inform the peak hours.

4. People don’t want to use the Wheeler garage. It looks like the Wheeler parking is for the apartments above.

5. There isn’t much electric charging in the Wheeler garage. Will there be any electric charging in the whole plan?

6. Have you checked with the Fire Department to see how they like the plan and how they can get to people that need emergency services?

7. The streets are getting dirtier and there is a rodent issue. Businesses are not handling their trash and are storing dry food outdoors.

8. The power washing is not great and has pushed mud into our windows and doors.

9. County of San Mateo Vector control said that were no funds from San Carlos and that there was no program for the City? Is this true?

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2330
All Commission Special Joint Meeting
September 3, 2024

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2331
All Commissions Special Joint Meeting
September 3, 2024
City Staff and the consultant team from WRT and W-Trans gave a presentation on the refined street designs, shared the findings from the parking and traffic analyses, and gathered input from the Downtown Advisory Committee, Economic Development & Advisory Commission, Parks, Recreation & Culture Commission, Planning and Transportation Commission, and the Youth Advisory Council. The meeting was held in-person at the San Carlos Library; 2nd floor Community Room at 7pm.

All Commissions Special Joint Meeting September 3, 2024 Study Session Materials:
• Study Session Presentation
• Commissions/ Committees Feedback Summary

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2332
All Commissions
Special Joint Meeting
September 3, 2024 7:00 p.m.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2333
AGENDA

COMMISSIONS / COMMITTEES
Downtown Advisory Committee (“DTAC”)
Economic Development Advisory Commission (“EDAC”)
Parks, Recreation, and Culture Commission (“PRCC”)
Planning and Transportation Commission (“PTC”)
Youth Advisory Council (“YAC”)

ADVISORY
Al Savay, Community & Economic Development Director
Lisa Porras, Planning Manager
Rendell Bustos, Senior Planner
Akanksha Chopra, Associate Planner
Greg Rubens, City Attorney

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2334
AGENDA

1. MEETING CALL TO ORDER

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2335
AGENDA

2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2336
Pledge of Allegiance

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2337
AGENDA

3. ROLL CALL

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2338
AGENDA

4. STUDY SESSION – Receive a presentation on
refined street designs, traffic and parking key
findings, and tradeoffs as part of the Downtown
Specific Plan + Streetscape Master Plan project.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2339
SAN CARLOS DOWNTOWN-SPECIFIC PLAN + STREETSCAPE MASTER PLAN PROJECT September 3, 2024

ALL COMMISSIONS SPECIAL JOINT MEETING

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2340
• Welcome & Introductions
• Purpose of the Meeting
• Project Overview / Goals and Objectives
• Refined Street Designs
• Traffic, Circulation, and Parking Outcomes
• Summary of Benefits
• Next Steps
• Commission / Committee Q & A
• Public Comment
• Commission / Committee Input
Meeting Agenda

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2341

PURPOSE OF

THE MEETING
• Present refined street
designs and their
effects on traffic and
parking outcomes
• Receive input from All
Commissions to share
with the City Council on
Sept. 23, 2024

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2342
Community Outreach
“The City of San Carlos will work with residents, property owners, business owners, committees, commissions, the Chamber of Commerce, and all other interested members of the community to develop a plan to understand and ensure that the downtown meets the needs of the community and businesses now and into the future.”
-– City Council Downtown Strategic Objective
All Commissions Special Joint Meeting
•Downtown Business Stakeholder Meeting, Aug. 28, 2024
•Planning and Transportation Commission and City Council – May and June 2024
•DTAC Review of Street Designs/Endorsement – March 19, 2024 •Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) Study Session, March 13, 2024 •Parks, Recreation, and Culture Commission (PRCC) Study Session, February 13, 2024
•Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) Study
Session, January 23, 2024
•Ideation Workshop (In-Person), December 9, 2023
• Community Survey
•Ideation Workshop (Virtual), December 6, 2023
•Downtown Business Stakeholder Meeting, May 24, 2023
•Downtown Specific Plan – Status Update and Progress Report on 4/17 and 4/24, 2023
•Results from Community Survey 2, March 1, 2023 to April 30, 2023 •Coffee and Comments Open House, March 4, 2023
•Downtown Community Workshop #2, February 15, 2023
•Downtown Community Workshop #1, August 31, 2022
•Results from Community Survey 1, August 8, 2022 to January 15, 2023
•Stakeholder Focus Group Interviews, August 22, 2022

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2343

PROJECT OVERVIEW

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2344
The Downtown should strive to be
an equitable place offering social,
economic, housing and
recreational opportunities at
varying levels of affordability for
all users along with being resilient
to address evolving climate
adaptation needs.

PLACEMAKING &

IDENTITY
The Downtown Specific Plan
should strive to create distinctive
character and identity unique to
San Carlos’ culture, history, and
context; defined by the physical
form and experience of the
downtown.

DOWNTOWN

VIBRANCY
The Downtown should achieve a level
of vibrancy and vitality that consistently
attracts users and shoppers through
enhancement of local businesses and
diverse programming, in a setting that is
distinctive, safe, and attractive.

MOBILITY &

CONNECTIVITY
Downtown should have a balance
of mobility modes that emphasizes
pedestrian, bicycle, and public
transit circulation along with
effective parking management
strategies, to support a socially
vibrant pedestrian-oriented
environment and to minimize
auto- dependence to access
downtown.

What are the Vision and Guiding Principles
for this project?
Downtown San Carlos is…..
• Heart of San Carlos
• Place for celebration and gathering
• Diverse and authentic experiences
• Inclusive place
• Inviting spaces for all users
• Sustainable district
• Supports ecological and community health &
well-being

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2345

EXISTING CIRCULATION
Proposed Pedestrian Priority Zone with Permanent Closure of 700 Laurel Block

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2346
DRAFT ILLUSTRATIVE STREETSCAPE LAYOUT (The “Downtown Core”) LAUREL STREET 600, 700 & 800 BLOCKS AND SAN CARLOS AVENUE 1100 & 1200 BLOCKS 1100
BLOCK
1200
BLOCK

CHERRY ST

OLIVE ST

LAUREL ST

SAN CARLOS AVE

EL CAMINO REAL

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2347
DRAFT ILLUSTRATIVE STREETSCAPE LAYOUT (South of Arroyo Ave) LAUREL STREET 900, 1000 & 1100 BLOCKS (SoLa District)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2348
600 BLOCK OF LAUREL STREET
Alternate
Parallel
Parking
Green
Infrastructure
Alternate
Parallel
Parking
Vehicular
Lanes
Curb-less
Design
Class III
Bike Lane

CHERRY ST

LAUREL ST

SAN CARLOS AVE
Stop

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2349

TREES FOR SHADE MATERIALS TO CREATE PLAZA EXPERIENCE POP-UP MARKET

IN WHEELER PLAZA

EXPANDED OUTDOOR DINING AND PUBLIC SEATING IN WHEELER
PLAZA

MULTI-PURPOSE PROGRAMMING

IN WHEELER PLAZA

SPACE FOR PERFORMANCES IN

WHEELER PLAZA

EXAMPLES OF ACTIVITIES
AS POSSIBLE WAYS TO ACTIVATE THE 600 BLOCK OF LAUREL STREET

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2350
700 BLOCK OF LAUREL STREET - PEDESTRIAN PLAZA
Green
Infrastructure
Curb-less
Design
Emergency
Access
Groves Central Plaza
Harrington Park

OLIVE ST

LAUREL ST

CHERRY ST
Alley / Parking Area

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2351

OUTDOOR DINING

PUBLIC ART WATER FEATURE PUBLIC SEATING

EVENT PLAZA/ PROGRAMMING STAGE/ PERFORMANCE AREA

EXAMPLES OF ACTIVITIES
AS POSSIBLE WAYS TO ACTIVATE THE 700 BLOCK OF LAUREL STREET

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2352
800 BLOCK OF LAUREL STREET
Alternate
Parallel
Parking
Green
Infrastructure
Alternate
Parallel
Parking
Curb-less
Design
Class III
Bike Lane
Vehicular
Lanes

LAUREL ST

OLIVE ST

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2353

FLEXIBLE USE / SPECIAL PAVING

EXAMPLES OF ACTIVITIES
AS POSSIBLE WAYS TO ACTIVATE THE 800 BLOCK OF LAUREL STREET

TREES FOR SHADING

WIDER SIDEWALKS

SIDEWALK DINING

STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PUBLIC SEATING

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2354

LAUREL STREET
BLOCK 600 & 800 (Looking North)

EXISTING
(LOOKING NORTH)

PROPOSED

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2355
LAUREL STREET (Festival/ Market Scenario)
BLOCK 600 & 800 (Looking North)

EXISTING
(LOOKING NORTH)

PROPOSED

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2356
LAUREL STREET 700 Block View

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2357

SAN CARLOS AVENUE
BLOCKS 1100 & 1200
(Looking Towards the Caltrain Station)

EXISTING
(LOOKING EAST)

PROPOSED

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2358

ARROYO AVENUE
(Looking Towards El Camino Real)

PROPOSED

EXISTING
(LOOKING EAST)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2359

BRITTAN AVENUE
(Looking East)

EXISTING
(LOOKING EAST)

PROPOSED

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2360
EL CAMINO REAL (Looking North)

EXISTING
(LOOKING NORTH

PROPOSED

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2361

TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2362
EXISTING TRAFFIC CONDITIONS (2024)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2363
PRIORITIZING AND IMPROVING BICYCLE EXPERIENCE (Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, 2020)
Downtown Vision, Guiding
Principle –
Mobility…reminder

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2364

TRAFFIC PATTERNS TODAY
Intersection at LOS D

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2365
NEAR-TERM TRAFFIC CONDITIONS (2030)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2366
WHAT IS PROPOSED ON SAN CARLOS AVENUE AND EL CAMINO REAL? San Carlos Ave
What is proposed?
• Lane reduction from four to two lanes
between El Camino Real and Walnut
Street
What will we gain?
• Pick Up/Drop Off Zones
• Wider Sidewalks
• Protected Bike Lanes
El Camino Real
What is proposed?
• Lane reduction from three to two
southbound lanes along entire City limits
What will we gain?
• Wider Sidewalks
• Protected or Buffered Bike Lanes added
on both sides of ECR

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2367
NEAR-TERM TRAFFIC OPERATIONS (2030) Without Proposed Changes/Road Diets Intersection at LOS D Queueing of Vehicles
Intersection at acceptable LOS D
• about 35 sec delay per vehicle,
• approximately the same as today
Queues on Southbound El Camino Real stay
within the block.

Queues on Eastbound San Carlos Ave stay
within the block.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2368
EFFECT ON VEHICLES NEAR-TERM (2030) With Proposed Changes/Road Diets Intersection remain at LOS D
• about 35 sec delay per vehicle,
• approximately the same as today
Queues on Southbound El Camino Real
grow by ~100 ft (5 vehicles).

Queues on Eastbound San Carlos Ave grow
by about 200 ft (8 vehicles).

Travel times increase by about 30 seconds
per vehicle through the entire area.

Does not assume mode shifts associated
with increased bicycle and walk activity, or
benefits of TDM Programs.

Intersection at LOS D Queueing of Vehicles

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2369
Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan Implementation – How might we achieve bicycle lanes on Brittan Avenue?
Brittan Ave
What is proposed?
• Moving the westbound
merge (from two lanes into
one lane) from west side of
El Camino Real to east side
of Old County Road
What will we gain?
• Bike lane connectivity
• Connecting East San Carlos
to Downtown

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2370
ROAD DIET ON BRITTAN - EFFECTS ON VEHICLES NEAR-TERM (2030) Intersection at LOS D Queueing of Vehicles
Brittan Ave/Old County Road and Brittan
Ave/El Camino Real may approach LOS E at
times.

Queues on Westbound Brittan Ave will
form and extend back from Old County
Road due to change in merge location.

The project team is exploring further study
of this area to determine feasibility. Pursuit
of this change would require direction by
City leadership to implement.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2371
LONG-TERM TRAFFIC CONDITIONS (2045)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2372
EFFECT ON VEHICLES LONG-TERM (2045)

WITH DOWNTOWN PLAN PLUS OTHER GROWTH IN SAN CARLOS AND THE REGION

NO ROAD DIETS
LOS D about 35 sec delay per vehicle
LOS E about 45 sec delay per vehicle
LOS F about 60+ sec delay per vehicle
Queues on El Camino Real, Holly Street,
San Carlos Avenue, Elm Street and Brittan
Avenue will grow over time.

Travel times will increase by more than 30
seconds per vehicle through the entire area
Worse Case Scenario, without mode shifts
associated with increased bicycle and walk
activity, or benefits of TDM Programs
Intersection at LOS D
Queueing of Vehicles
Intersection at LOS E
Intersection at LOS F

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2373
EFFECT ON VEHICLES LONG-TERM (2045)

WITH ROAD DIETS AND DOWNTOWN PLAN PLUS OTHER GROWTH IN SAN CARLOS AND THE REGION LOS D about 35 sec delay per vehicle
LOS E about 45 sec delay per vehicle
LOS F about 60+ sec delay per vehicle
Queues on El Camino Real, Holly Street,
San Carlos Avenue, Elm Street and Brittan
Avenue will grow over time
Travel times will increase by more than 30
seconds per vehicle through the entire area
Worse Case Scenario, without mode shifts
associated with increased bicycle and walk
activity, or benefits of TDM Programs
Intersection at LOS D
Queueing of Vehicles
Intersection at LOS E
Intersection at LOS F

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2374

KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Traffic adapts to changes in the network.
• Near-term traffic forecast shows little change, even with road diets on San Carlos Ave and El Camino Real.
• We will gain improved connections between Downtown, Caltrain and East San Carlos, with wider sidewalks and bike facilities.
• Long-term traffic forecast shows slower traffic and queues due to local and regional growth, but still at a manageable level.
• Downtown Specific Plan will incrementally add to the travel times and queues. • TDM programs will lead to increases in transit, walking and bicycling and lessen the effects of increased traffic.
• With the Swing Lanes on Holly St and Elm St, the traffic will shift to Holly St as the main access to/from US 101.
• Holly St will have added capacity during peak hours.

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2375

PARKING

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2376
STREETSCAPE PARKING CHANGES and OUTCOMES (AT 12:00-1.00 PM, THURSDAY) -25
-7
-15
1 1
2 1 6
4 3
11 7 41 2
2 10 11
168

CHERRY ST

OLIVE ST

LAUREL ST

SAN CARLOS AVE

EL CAMINO REAL

WALNUTL ST

WHEELER
GARAGE
• 47 spaces needed to achieve wider sidewalks, protected bike lanes, expanded dining areas, etc. • 175 on-street parking spaces within 1 Block from Laurel Street & San Carlos Avenue 1100/1200 Block, and 168 spaces at Wheeler Garage are available at peak hours.
14 8
27 13
11 9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2377
STREETSCAPE PARKING CHANGES and OUTCOMES (AT 7:00 – 8:00 PM, SATURDAY) -25
-7
-15
2 1
4 0 1
7 3
8 25 9 2
1 12 10
236

CHERRY ST

OLIVE ST

LAUREL ST

SAN CARLOS AVE

EL CAMINO REAL

WALNUTL ST

WHEELER
GARAGE
• 47 spaces needed to achieve wider sidewalks, protected bike lanes, expanded dining areas, etc. • 134 on-street parking spaces within 1 Block from Laurel Street & San Carlos Avenue 1100/1200 Block, and 236 spaces at Wheeler Garage are available at peak hours.
8 10
12 11
10 9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2378

PARKING OCCUPANCY SURVEY

FINDINGS
3,109 Spaces Surveyed
Key Takeaways
• 102 empty on-street spaces at 12 - 1p.m. (on Thursday) in the downtown core and 73 spaces within one block of
Laurel and 1100, 1200 Block of San Carlos Avenue *
• 83 empty on-street spaces at 7 – 8 p.m. (on Saturday) in the downtown core and 51 spaces within one block of
Laurel and 1100, 1200 Block of San Carlos Avenue *
• 168 empty spaces in Wheeler Garage on Thursday noon
peak and 236 empty spaces on Saturday evening peak
• Congested mid-day and evenings
• 600 & 800 blocks of Laurel & Lots behind 700 block
• Heavy parking use during Farmer’s Market (on-street)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2379
BEST PRACTICES:

PARKING MANAGEMENT
• Regulate on- and off-street
parking for different users
• Manage employee parking
• Address overnight resident
parking (e.g. permit parking)
• Improve patron parking
experience
• Prioritize cost-effectiveness

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2380
• Shared Parking
• Wayfinding
• Opportunity Sites to Boost
Parking Supply
• Regulations & Pricing
• Resident/Employee Parking
Permits
• Enhanced Parking Enforcement
• Curb Management
BEST PRACTICES:

TOOLS

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2381
• Parking Requirements (for new
development)
• Transportation Demand Management
(“TDM”) Strategies (e.g. incentives)
• TDM Ordinance Update Underway
• Technology
BEST PRACTICES:

TOOLS (Cont.)

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2382
• Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan
• Climate Mitigation and Adaptation
Plan
• General Plan
• Grand Boulevard Initiative
• Complete Streets Policy
* Transit-Oriented Communities (TOC)
Regional Policy

CITY POLICIES

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2383

KEY TAKEAWAYS SUMMARY
• To get more sidewalk space, better
bike lanes, more outdoor dining
space, etc.
• Need for 47 spaces (4% of 1,150
total on-street spaces)
• 83 - 102 empty on-street spaces
within 1 block of Laurel
• +168 - 236 empty Wheeler
Garage spaces
• + another 51 - 73 spaces within
the Plan area
• Little available parking on 600
& 800 blocks of Laurel and lots
behind 700 block
• Yet, many unoccupied spaces
on Walnut & Elm Streets and in
Wheeler Garage, SamTrans
Garage, and Caltrain lot
• Parking management
strategies underway as part of
Downtown Specific Plan

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2384

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS & TRADE OFFS

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2385

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS
DESIGN CHANGES:
• Significantly widened sidewalks (20’)
• Protected bike lanes
• Outdoor dining space
• Urban greening/ groves and rain gardens
• Other amenities such as outdoor seating, event
spaces, public art, drinking fountains, charging
stations
• Connectivity between Downtown, Caltrain, and
East San Carlos for all modes of travel
OUTCOMES:
• Added downtown vitality, vibrancy
• Improved shopping and dining experience
• Enhanced pedestrian experience
• Increase in visitors
• More space for downtown programming, and
activities
• Resulting in people spending more time in
downtown San Carlos

9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2386

TRADE OFFS
WHAT YOU GET:
• Significantly widened sidewalks (20’)
• Protected bike lanes
• Outdoor dining space
• Urban greening/ groves and rain gardens
• Other amenities such as outdoor seating,
event spaces, public art, drinking
fountains, charging stations
• Connectivity between Downtown,
CalTrain and East San Carlos for all modes
of travel
WHAT YOU GIVE:
• 40 Parking spaces on Laurel Street
• 7 Parking spaces on San Carlos Ave
• Road reconfiguration on San Carlos Ave and
El Camino Real
• Manageable increases in the travel time
• Manageable increases in queues

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NEXT STEPS

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2388
City Council Meeting, Monday, Sept 23, 2024
Meeting starts at 7:00 PM
600 Elm Street, 1st Floor, Council Chambers
✓ Attend, make comments in person
✓ Write the Council at [email protected]
✓ Attend via Zoom - instructions on the Council Agenda - https://www.cityofsancarlos.org/city_hall/public_meetings.php Next Steps

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www.sancarlosdowntownplan.com
Questions? [email protected]
QUESTIONS and INPUT

THANK YOU

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2390
Commission / Committee Questions
Roundtable

1.YAC

2.DTAC

3.EDAC

4.PRCC

5.PTC

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PUBLIC COMMENT
**All Commissions Meeting – September 3, 2024**
If you would like to make a public comment on an item on Agenda Item 4a, Downtown Specific Plan + Streetscape Master Plan, now is the time to speak :

1. Fill out a Request to Speak Form and submit to City Staff; or you may raise your hand when city staff calls for public comments
Two Minute Timer:

In the interest of full disclosure,
please note if you are a paid representative/advocate for any item you’ll be commenting on.

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Commission / Committee Input
Roundtable

1.YAC

2.DTAC

3.EDAC

4.PRCC

5.PTC

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AGENDA

5. PUBLIC COMMENT (for items not on tonight’s
Agenda)

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AGENDA

6. ADJOURNMENT

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1 Special Joint Meeting
09/03/2024 | 7:00 pm | Community Room, San Carlos Library Special Joint Meeting
Downtown Advisory Committee (DTAC)
Economic Development Advisory Commission (EDAC)
Parks, Recreation and Culture Commission (PRCC)
Planning & Transportation Commission (PTC)
Youth Advisory Council (YAC)
Special Joint Meeting Agenda
The meeting agenda included a presentation from Lisa Porras, Planning Manager, and the consultant team WRT and W-Trans. The presentation focused on refined street designs, traffic and parking key findings, and tradeoffs as part of the Downtown Specific Plan + Streetscape Master Plan project. The meeting also included public comment and comments and feedback from the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC), Economic Development Advisory Commission (EDAC), Parks, Recreation and Culture Commission (PRCC), Youth Advisory Council (YAC), and the Downtown Advisory Committee (DTAC). The input from the community, City commissions and committees are summarized below.

Community and City Committee/Commission Input
Youth Advisory Council

1. Consider requiring installation of solar panels on buildings in the Downtown if the Specific Plan is looking 20 years into the future.

2. There will be a lot of trees. How can we avoid root overgrowth that would break up sidewalks?

3. Will the plants be more native and drought-tolerant?

4. How many EV charging stations will there be?

5. Elm St. can feel like a one-way street when cars are parked on both sides of the street and will become more crowded as the Downtown becomes a greater attraction. How do we deal with so many cars parked on narrow streets such as Elm St. or Walnut St.?

6. How will parking change in the Downtown over the next 20 years? We have a surplus now but will we need to expand parking in the future?

7. How long will the installation of the improvements take, and what impact will it have on traffic and on small businesses?

8. Are you taking into account pedestrian accessibility into all of the parking?

9. Are the spaces on San Carlos Ave. going to be parallel parking, as well?

10. It would be a good idea to have lights and sensors showing availability of on-street and off-street parking.

11. Mode shift could change the worst-case traffic conditions. Will the mode shifts increase over time? How would congestion look?

12. Solar panels should be installed and not just solar-ready.

Downtown Advisory Committee

1. Laurel Street did change from parallel parking to angled parking 25 years ago.

2. The 700 block is a nightmare currently. Please use the alleys to get around. It’s a challenge to get out of the employee parking areas.

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2396

2 Special Joint Meeting
09/03/2024 | 7:00 pm | Community Room, San Carlos Library

3. How many accessible parking spaces will there be if the street parking is switching to parallel parking?

4. The presentation discussed vehicle queues, but Cherry St. felt short in the reporting. People may end up defaulting to other streets, such as Cherry St., Olive St., or Holly St., with the road diets on San Carlos Ave.

5. What is the number of accidents that have occurred this year on the intersection of Cherry St. and Walnut St.?

6. I don’t know how reflective the peak hour numbers are for parking particularly on Walnut St. and Cherry St. I don’t believe the peak times are 12-1 pm on Thursdays and 7-8 pm on Saturdays. I’d like to survey where there 41 spaces on Walnut Ave. between Cherry and Olive. People don’t like to park in garages or underground so people are driving around residential streets to find parking.

7. Will the phasing plan consider doing the improvements to San Carlos Ave. in a later phase to see what happens with the earlier phases?

8. I suggest putting something out to the public to show what could be constructed in the next 2-3 years.

9. Will there be cutouts for bus stops southbound on El Camino Real?

10. We discussed the possibility of public restrooms for events to avoid overwhelming businesses. Will they be at Wheeler Plaza, Harrington Park, or somewhere else?

11. Will the dedications and plaques throughout the downtown be repurposed or relocated?

12. The interaction between pedestrians and cyclists is concerning. The sooner a dismount zone is created, the better, to avoid accidents.

Economic Development Advisory Commission

1. The alleys are an untapped resource but were not discussed. People are looking for ways to utilize alleys.

2. Not every business is a restaurant, so how will businesses transition to the wider sidewalks? As things change, how will the 8-foot space be used?

3. How will we accommodate short-term loading (food delivery) with changes to parallel parking?

4. Where will the bike parking go?

5. What are the number of remaining spaces on the 600 and 800 blocks?

6. Will the funding be phased? What will happen if there is a broken funding chain?

7. The data shows about 30 sec. delay on San Carlos Ave. toward El Camino Real. I would want this double checked.

8. Have you considered one-way travel on San Carlos Ave. and Holly St.? Parks, Recreation and Culture Commission

1. How many total spaces does Wheeler Plaza have now?

2. It was mentioned that 25 spots will be lost on the 600 block. Does that include the parking on the exterior Wheeler Plaza lot?

3. Is there any part of an existing Wheeler Plaza Plan that would guide what would happen there?

4. Do the bike lanes on El Camino Real only go from San Carlos Ave. to Greenwood? Or is it from Holly to Eaton? Would they have to maneuver until they reach the new bike lane?

5. In the 700 block, could restaurants, such as Town, encroach beyond the 20-foot setback along other frontages?

6. Is there a plan for cohesive outdoor dining furniture, and who owns it?

7. Will the City pay businesses a fee to offset the loss of business during construction?

8. What is the turning radius/distance from the 800 block into the alley?

9. We need enhanced parking enforcement now and not wait until the improvements are complete.

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3 Special Joint Meeting
09/03/2024 | 7:00 pm | Community Room, San Carlos Library

10. Can you confirm Wheeler Plaza will be an open recreational area?

11. The delays on San Carlos Ave. toward El Camino Real concern me, especially if it is one of the first phases to be done.

Planning & Transportation Commission

1. We should present the trade-offs more to the public as we go forward. Approximately 70% of the survey indicated they had not participated in other surveys. We have to be realistic that there are many who don’t know what we are doing. Going forward, I would like to see the trade-offs shown.

2. Did the 3,100 identified parking spaces include any parking in the alleys?

3. Are there plans to allow public parking in alleys, particularly behind the 700 block?

4. I question whether the parking noted as ‘nearby’ is close enough for folks who go to shops that need to carry things.

5. At the Brittan merging lane on the east side of El Camino Real, there may be back up. Having bikes come west seems to make sense but perhaps avoid losing merging lane on west side. Would it be possible to retain the merge lane?

6. What would be the safety measures on the 600 and 800 blocks due to the loss of curbs?

7. Do the existing traffic conditions shown in the presentation assume that the RHNA is met?

8. Where will the Harrington Park stage be placed?

9. Consider shade structures in the Wheeler Plaza area because it can get warm there.

10. I am skeptical of the number of available parking spaces noted in Wheeler Garage. It is difficult to find a parking space. Double check that it wasn’t during the time improvements were being made in 2023.

11. When implemented, this plan will be transformational for our community and will draw families and individuals to use our City. A 20- or 10-year plan will be too long. If it’s not substantially done soon, momentum will be lost.

Public Comments

1. This looks better than what I saw on the survey. There are still some issues I see. The mural next to Bianchini’s is bold but is not a good fit for San Carlos. We should consider murals in keeping with the historic and uniqueness of San Carlos. There is no enforcement for issues such as unsafe bicyclists, smoking, vaping, or dog-walking. To meet our goals, we should look to Burlingame (street materials), Walnut Creek (sculptures, seating, and enforcement), Palo Alto (murals), and Vancouver (streetlight plants).

2. How will dismount zones be introduced into the plan? How will they impact the people that use the 600 and 800 blocks. How do we balance the use of bicycles, scooters, and skateboards with safety of others.

Regarding the murals, the YAC’s goal was to brighten the Downtown during the pandemic and to promote diversity and the youth perspective.

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2398
Downtown Business Stakeholder Meeting
August 7, 2025

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2399
Downtown Business Stakeholder Meeting
August 7, 2025

The City staff held a Downtown Businesses Stakeholder meeting on August 7th to discuss outdoor dining and retail display area. New requirements will be included in the upcoming Downtown Specific Plan. Merchants and restaurant operators shared their feedback and input. To invite business owners, managers, and employees to the August 7 Business Stakeholder meeting, City staff went door-to-door to all businesses along Laurel Street within the Downtown Specific Plan area. The Downtown Business Stakeholder meeting was hosted by Stamp Bar and Grill with 14 representatives from the business community in attendance.

Meeting Materials
• Presentation
• Business Stakeholder Feedback Summary

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2400
Outdoor Dining/Sidewalk Café and
Retail Display Areas
Downtown Business Meeting
8:00 am – 9:30 am
Thursday, August 7, 2025

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2401
Today’s Agenda

1. Quick Introductions and Meeting Purpose

2. Brief History of Outdoor Dining and Retail Display

3. Plan Area - where new standards would apply

4. Outdoor Dining/Sidewalk Cafes

5. Retail Display Areas on the Sidewalk

6. Tree Strip Zone

7. Q&A, Input, Other Comments/Considerations

8. Next Steps (Aug 25 City Council Study Session)
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 Since 1991: Municipal Code outlines operation, maintenance, and design standards for outdoor dining (sidewalk cafes) and retail display areas
 2016: Temporary Pilot Program for On-Street Dining
 2020: COVID parklets
 2023: Permanent Closure of the 700 block of Laurel Street (Dec 11, 2023)  2025: Downtown Streetscape Master Plan (adopted April 28, 2025)  Nov. 10, 2025: Adopt Downtown Specific Plan
• standards for current condition of downtown, AND
• standards based on future streetscape improvements
3 Brief History of Outdoor Dining and
Retail Display Areas in San Carlos

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2403
Meeting Purpose
4 Ultimate Goal: Establish standards for outdoor dining and retail display areas in the Downtown Specific Plan.

How we get there:
 To identify business needs / receive input from San Carlos downtown business operators.
 City Council to provide direction on Monday, Aug 25, 2025  Downtown Specific Plan/Standards Adoption, Nov. 10, 2025

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2404
Downtown Specific Plan Area
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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2405
Downtown Specific Plan
Outdoor Dining and
Retail Display Area locations
6 TREE STRIP ZONE

TREE STRIP ZONE

SIDEWALK DINING/RETAIL DISPLAY ZONE

SIDEWALK DINING/RETAIL DISPLAY ZONE
Laurel St. – 700 block
Laurel St. – 600/800 blocks
Laurel St. – 600/800 blocks

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2406
Future Sidewalk Cafe/Retail Display Areas
7 Sidewalk Café/Retail Zone:
 Laurel Street
 600 and 800 blocks: 8 feet from building face
 700 block pedestrian mall: 9 feet from building face
 South of Arroyo: 4 feet minimum sidewalk clearance
 San Carlos Avenue: 8 feet from building face
 El Camino Real: 5 feet from building face

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2407
New Plaza in the 600 Block, Laurel (between Blue Line and Paris Baguette) 8  No dining/retail within the tree strip.
 Public seating in the plaza (except during special events).

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2408
Outdoor Dining/Sidewalk Cafe Areas
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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2409
Outdoor Dining – Standards
10 OPERATION
 No amplified sound (live music/entertainment – Minor Use Permit)  No outdoor cooking or open flames
 Portable heating devices subject to Fire approval
 No bussing stations or trash storage
 Okay to leave furnishings overnight
 No subleasing to another business

MAINTENANCE
 Business shall maintain area, adjoining street and gutter in neat, clean, orderly condition  Dining activities shall not interfere with pedestrian zone, parking, or traffic  Furniture must be kept in good condition; umbrellas shall be kept secure in windy conditions and shall be fire-treated

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2410
Outdoor Dining – Standards
11  No permanent attachments and no permanent shelters over outdoor eating areas
 Barriers not required, but if desired they may include planter boxes (but no wrought iron fencing)
 Improvements and furnishings shall be commercial-grade and made for outdoor use
 Umbrellas shall be of a solid color (using City official color palette and white); no advertising or signage

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2411
z
Outdoor Dining – Standards
12 Permit outdoor dining furniture,
umbrellas, and appurtenances to
remain within the dining zone overnight
Prohibit subleasing of outdoor space (and from
acquiring more space from your neighbor)
Provide more clarity that
seating shall not have its back
toward the pedestrian zone.

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2412
Outdoor Dining – Standards
13 Specify that outdoor dining shall
comply with ADA access and
clear zone requirements
Emphasize that portable heaters must
meet Fire Code and be set back from
trees and flammable objects
Permit built-in overhead
heaters on overhead trellis
if they meet Fire Code

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2413
Outdoor Dining – Standards
14  No permanent attachments on the ground and no permanent shelters over outdoor eating areas

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2414
15 But exclude neon and dayglow colors
Outdoor Dining – Standards
Umbrellas to be solid color using San Carlos’
Official Color Palette plus white (no advertising
or signage).

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2415
16 Permit patterned or solid color
awnings; still no advertising
Outdoor Dining – Standards
Permit a projecting
open lattice

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2416
17 Retractable curtains permitted
perpendicular to building façade to
block wind or create privacy from
neighboring businesses
Street-facing awnings may include
retractable windscreens as long as
they are transparent and only used in
inclement weather
Outdoor Dining – Standards

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2417
Outdoor Dining – Standards
18  Barriers may include planter boxes (but no wrought iron fencing)  Improvements and furnishings shall be commercial-grade and made for outdoor use Require that barrier elements be
cohesive in color, size, and material
Encourage gaps between planter
boxes or barrier elements
Barriers, not required, but if provided…

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2418
Outdoor Dining –Standards
19 Barriers, not required, but if provided…
Discourage continuous wall.

Gaps preferred.

Do not allow – tripping hazard.

Prohibit faux plants and hedges
Maximum barrier height of 3 ft;
4 ft height including plants

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2419
20 Outdoor Dining – Standards
Prohibit rope barriers, metal
crowd barriers, and jersey barriers
Prohibit platforms and floor coverings

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2420
Outdoor Retail Display Areas on the
Sidewalk
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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2421
Outdoor Retail Display – Standards
22 OPERATIONS:
 Display may only be in front of the business
 Merchandise displayed outdoors must be the same as sold inside store  Allow appurtenances to remain overnight or stored inside the business  No subleasing
 No speakers, nor amplified music
MAINTENANCE:
 Business shall maintain area, adjoining street and gutter in neat, clean, orderly condition
 Retail activities shall not interfere with pedestrians, parking, or traffic  Furniture must be kept in good condition

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2422
Outdoor Retail Display – Standards
23  All display elements shall be made of commercial-grade materials and capable of withstanding weather
 Merchandise and displays shall be between two and six feet in height  Displays and appurtenances shall be stable and secure in all wind and weather conditions
 Umbrellas shall be solid color canvas. Awnings can be patterned or solid.

Follow City color palette, plus white. No generic advertising or signage is permitted
 Remove The display and sales area shall not exceed twenty-five percent of the width of the frontage of the associated business storefront

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2423
Retail Display – Standards
24 Allow patterned or solid color awnings
Clarify that nothing may be bolted or
attached to the ground
Prohibit outdoor display
figures

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2424
Retail Display – Standards
25 Prohibit platforms or floor coverings
Prohibit plastic card tables,
cinderblocks, and cardboard as
display elements

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2425
Retail Display – Standards
26 Allow patterned umbrellas and
awnings
Allow more than 25% of frontage to be
used, consistent with dining
Reference ADA
accessibility and
clear space
requirements
Zoning
Administrator may
consider any
anomalies

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2426
Tree Strip Zone
27 9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2427
Laurel Street
600 and 800
Block
(Looking South)

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2428
29 9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2429
Tree Strip Zone – Policy Considerations
30 • For restaurant use, not general seating. Owner takes responsibility. • Each business is not guaranteed a space, as other streetscape elements may limit equal opportunity.

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2430
Tree Strip Zone – Standards
31 • Tables and chairs set back 2.5 feet from a curb face or bollard to allow passengers to enter and exit their vehicles (where parallel parking occurs)
• 5-foot buffer between adjacent tree strip dining areas • so pedestrians can access the sidewalk
• Tables and chairs set back four feet from utility access panels, survey monuments, and manholes • Tables and chairs, setback three feet from fire hydrants or Fire Department Connections • ADA parking locations require 3 ft wide clear path for each door – affects placement of tables/chairs • Establish maximum table size
• Tables and chairs in the tree strip zone to match tables and chairs in the dining zone • Tables and chairs in from tree strip zone may be stored overnight • No umbrellas
• No portable heaters
• No barriers
• May not string electric lines or lighting between business and tree strip zone

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2431
Tree Strip Zone – Special Considerations cont.
32  No objects within the sight
distance triangle of an intersection
 Tables &
chairs must
be set back

2.5 feet from
a curb face
or bollard
(where
parallel
parking
occurs)

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2432
Thank you.
33 Next Steps:

1. City Council Study Session: August 25

2. Release Public Draft Downtown Specific Plan: September 15

3. Planning and Transportation Commission recommendation: October 20

4. City Council adoption: November 10

5. City Council 2nd reading: November 24

6. Downtown Specific Plan goes into effect: December 24, 2025

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2433
Questions, Comments,
Input, Considerations?
34 9.k
January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2434
Existing Standards
Zoning Ordinance
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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2435
Existing Outdoor Dining Standards
36 18.23.140
Eating and drinking establishments with outdoor dining areas shall be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards:

A. Application Information. Applicant shall submit a site plan and description of the proposed outdoor dining area. The plan shall be drawn to scale showing the location of buildings and structures and in the case of dining in the public right-of-way, the location of street furnishings and trees, curb and onstreet parking, adjacent to the proposed outdoor dining. The plan shall show locations, number and the arrangement of planters, fencing, umbrellas, sun screens, tables, chairs, and other portable or affixed appurtenances proposed. Colors and commercial grade materials shall be specified. An electrical plan, when applicable, shall include any lighting and electrical connection proposed including specification of fixtures, type and location. In addition to any other application materials required, an application for an outdoor dining area shall state the anticipated periods of use during the year, and the proposed hours of daily use, including Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays; and whether any liquor will be sold or consumed in the area to be covered by the permit.

B. Hours of Operation. Hours of operation shall be limited to the hours of operation of the associated eating and drinking establishment and shall be open for a minimum of two service periods per day, except when the establishment is open for only one service per day.

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2436
37 C. Permits and Licenses. The applicant shall obtain a City of San Carlos zoning clearance/minor architectural review approval and an annual business registration. The applicant shall also obtain approval from the San Mateo County Health Department. In the case of outdoor dining in the public right-of-way, an annual City of San Carlos encroachment permit is required pursuant to Chapter 12.36. As applicable, a current and valid liquor license issued by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverages Control is also required.

D. Outdoor Dining Area in the Public Right-of-Way.

1. Encroachment Permit Required. An encroachment permit approved by the City Engineer is required for any outdoor dining area located in the public right-of-way. No part of an outdoor dining area shall be permanently attached to the building, public right-of-way or sidewalk.

2. Minimum Clearance. For outdoor dining in the MU-DC zoning district, the outdoor dining area may be located no further than the extent of the brick demarcation line that is closest to the front property line. For all other areas, a minimum of four feet of unobstructed sidewalk must remain available for pedestrians. For purposes of the minimum clear path, parking meters, traffic signs, trees, tree grates and all similar obstacles shall constitute obstructions within the sidewalk area.

Existing Outdoor Dining Standards

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2437
38 a. Adjacent to Street. Where the outdoor dining area is located adjacent to a street, an eighteeninch clearance shall be maintained from the face of the curb to the outdoor dining area unless there is parking parallel to the street, in which case a two-foot clearance is required. b. No Obstructions. Minimum width of access opening shall be forty-four inches. No outdoor dining area shall obstruct any points of building ingress and/or egress. c. Corner Lots. On a corner lot, the outdoor dining area shall not be located within the area bound by the extensions of the corner building walls between the building and the curb. d. Vertical Clearance. Vertical clearance of seven feet shall be maintained.

3. Design.
a. No Permanent Attachments. Roofs, awnings or umbrellas may be used in conjunction with an outdoor eating area, although permanent shelters over an outdoor eating area are prohibited. Awnings shall be adequately secured, retractable, and shall comply with the Building Code.
b. Barriers. The outdoor dining area may be delineated by an edge perpendicular to the sidewalk, but is not required, by the use of barriers such as planter boxes or wrought iron fencing. c. Design. The design of all improvements and furniture shall be of a quality to sustain weather and wear, and shall be of commercial grade materials.

Existing Outdoor Dining Standards

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2438
39 i. Furniture shall be of durable materials such as wrought iron, wood, steel, or cast aluminum.

Tables shall be a size suitable for seating of two to four patrons. Plastic chairs and table and vinyl or plastic tablecloths are not permitted.
ii. Planter boxes shall be of quality materials such as finished wood, precast concrete, terra cotta, or other pottery.
iii. Umbrellas and awnings shall be solid color canvas. Sun screens shall be a durable fabric and retractable. No generic advertising or signage is permitted.

4. Operation.
a. Noise Limits. No entertainment or use, operation, or playing of any musical instrument, loudspeaker, sound amplifier, or other machine for the production or reproduction of sound is permitted in the outdoor dining area.
b. No Outdoor Cooking or Open Flames. No electrical appliances, heating or cooking of food or open flames shall be allowed in the outdoor dining area. Use of portable heating devices may be permitted with approval from the Fire Marshal.
c. No Storage. No structure or enclosure to accommodate the serving or clean-up stations, storage of trash or garbage shall be erected or placed on, adjacent to, or separate from an outdoor dining area on the public sidewalk or right-of-way.

Existing Outdoor Dining Standards

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2439
40 d. Parking. Outdoor dining areas are exempt from the parking requirements of Chapter 18.20, Parking and Loading.
e. No Overnight Use. All umbrellas, tables, chairs and other portable appurtenances shall be removed from the outdoor dining area at the end of each business day. No storage in the public right-of-way shall be permitted.

5. Maintenance.
a. The permittee and the property owner shall maintain the outdoor dining area and the adjoining street, curb, gutter and sidewalk in a neat, clean and orderly condition at all times, regardless of the source of the refuse and litter.
b. Activities involving the outdoor dining area shall be conducted in a manner that does not interfere with pedestrians, parking or traffic.
c. If necessary, the permittee or the property owner shall clean the surface of the sidewalk by washing or buffing to remove any stains, marks, or discoloration and in accordance with prevailing stormwater and water quality regulations.
d. Furniture and appurtenances shall be kept clean and in good condition. Umbrellas shall be kept secure in windy conditions, and fire-treated. (Ord. 1480 (Exh. C (part)), 2015; Ord. 1438 § 4 (Exh. A (part)), 2011) Existing Outdoor Dining Standards

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2440
Existing Outdoor Retail Sales Standards
41 18.23.150
Outdoor retail sales shall be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the standards of this section.

A. Temporary Outdoor Display and Sales. The temporary outdoor display and sale of merchandise shall comply with Section 18.23.240, Temporary uses, and Chapter 18.31, Temporary Use Permits.

An encroachment permit is required for any temporary outdoor display and sales within the public right-of-way; reasonable conditions of approval of such permits may be imposed to ensure unobstructed pedestrian movement in a minimum clear zone and to maintain clean sidewalks.

B. Downtown Outdoor Display and Sales. Outdoor display and sale of merchandise in downtown districts shall comply with this section and Title 12. Outdoor display and sale of merchandise is permitted on private property in the MU-DC, MU-D, MU-N and the MU-SB. Outdoor display and sale of merchandise is permitted on public property and in the right-of-way in the MU-DC, MU-D with frontage on Laurel Street and San Carlos Avenue, MU-N with frontage on Holly Street, MU-N south of Arroyo Avenue and the MU-SB with frontage on Laurel Street. The display area shall not encroach in a public right-of-way, street, alley, sidewalk or other public property without first obtaining an encroachment permit.

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2441
Existing Outdoor Retail Sales Standards
42 1. General Requirements.
a. Application Information. Applicant shall submit a site plan and description of the proposed outdoor display and sales area. The plan shall be drawn to scale showing the location of buildings and structures. In cases where outdoor sales are proposed for location in the public right-of-way, the site plan shall include the location of street furnishings and trees adjacent to the proposed outdoor display and sales area. The plan shall show locations, number and the arrangement of portable appurtenances proposed. Colors and commercial grade materials shall be specified. In addition to any other application materials required, an application for an outdoor display and sales area shall state the anticipated periods of use during the year, and the proposed hours of daily use, including Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
b. Hours of Operation. Hours of outdoor display and sales shall be limited to the hours of operation of the associated commercial establishment.
c. Permits and Licenses. The applicant shall obtain a City of San Carlos zoning clearance/minor architectural review approval and an annual business registration. In the case of outdoor display and sales in the public right-of-way, an annual City of San Carlos encroachment permit is required.

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Existing Outdoor Retail Sales Standards
43 2. Outdoor Retail Sales Standards.
a. Design.
i. The design of all improvements, sales racks and furniture shall be of a quality to sustain weather and wear, and shall be of commercial grade materials. Vinyl or plastic tablecloths are not permitted.
ii. The merchandise in the outdoor display and sales area including but not limited to the display racks, tables and stands shall not exceed a height of six feet and in no case be lower than two feet.
iii. Display and sales area fixtures and appurtenances shall be stable and secure in all wind and weather conditions. Umbrellas and awnings shall be solid color canvas. Sun screens shall be a fabric and retractable. No generic advertising or signage is permitted. iv. The display and sales area shall not exceed twenty-five percent of the width of the frontage of the associated business storefront.
b. Operation.
i. Outdoor display and sales conducted by a business shall be located in front of the associated business storefront.
ii. All merchandise or services displayed outdoors shall be of the same types ordinarily sold indoors at the business conducting the sale. All sale transactions shall be conducted indoors.

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January 26, 2026 Packet Pg. 2443