c750e4e1-3.a-canal-neighborhood-active-transporation-enhancement-project-rev

____________________________________________________________________________________

FOR CITY CLERK ONLY
Council Meeting:

Disposition: Resolution
Agenda Item No: 3.a
Meeting Date: March 2, 2026

SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Department: Public Works
Prepared by: Grey Shankel Melgard, Senior Civil
Engineer
April Miller, Public Works Director
City Manager Approval: ______________
TOPIC: CANAL NEIGHBORHOOD ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT PROJECT SUBJECT: RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL FINDING

THAT THE CANAL NEIGHBORHOOD ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT

PROJECT IS EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE SECTION 21080.25(b)(1) AND SECTION 15301 OF THE STATE CEQA GUIDELINES; AND

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL APPROVING

AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A PROGRAM

SUPPLEMENT AGREEMENT WITH CALTRANS TO RECEIVE STATE FUNDS RECOMMENDATION:

Staff recommends that the City Council adopt two resolutions:

1. Adopt a resolution finding that the Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancement Project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(b)(1) and Section 15301 of the State CEQA Guidelines; and

2. Adopt a resolution approving and authorizing the City Manager to execute a Program Supplement Agreement with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) for $630,000 in Active Transportation Program (ATP) funds for the Project.

BACKGROUND:

The Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancement Project (the “Project”) is in San Rafael’s Canal neighborhood, bounded by I-580, Highway 101, Bellam Boulevard, and the San Rafael Creek.

The freeways and Creek physically isolate this disadvantaged community. There is limited shopping, education, health services, and job opportunities within the neighborhood, and travel to other locations is constrained by poor bicycle and pedestrian connections.

The Project would support the complete design and construction of several pedestrian, lighting, bicycle, and transit enhancements in the public right-of-way and on City-owned property in the Canal neighborhood. Proposed pedestrian enhancements include curb ramp upgrades, sidewalk gap closures, corridor lighting improvements, and uncontrolled crosswalk enhancements on 19 streets and pathways in the public right-of-way and on City-owned property. Proposed lighting improvements are included in SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 2
the public right of way along Hoag Street, Harbor Street, Canal Street, Belvedere Street, Verdi Street, Larkspur Street, Novato Street, Fairfax Street, Sonoma Street, and along the City-owned portions of Pickleweed Park, the Bahia Vista Path, and the San Francisco Bay Trail/Jean & John Starkweather Shoreline Park. Proposed bicycle improvements would construct bicycle boulevard treatments in the public right-of-way along Canal Street and Harbor Street to enhance the neighborhood’s bicycle network and add secure bicycle parking at Pickleweed Park. Proposed transit improvements would add transit shelter enhancements at five high-ridership stops and a new transit stop on Kerner Boulevard in the public right of way. These enhancements would improve the mobility, equity, safety, and comfort of people walking, biking, and using transit in the Canal neighborhood. They would help residents reach key destinations, such as schools, parks, and shopping areas, both within and outside the community.

In January 2023, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) adopted the Active Transportation Program (ATP) Cycle 6 program, which included the Project’s entire grant request for $4,123,000 as part of the ATP Cycle 6A.

In September 2024, the City Council adopted a resolution approving a Program Supplement Agreement with Caltrans to receive $158,000 in State ATP funds for the Project's preliminary engineering phase.

In March 2025, the City Council awarded a Professional Services Agreement (PSA) to BKF Engineers to provide professional services associated with the Project, including project management, public outreach, preliminary engineering, environmental compliance and permitting, right-of-way certification, plans, specifications, and estimates, and construction support services.

ANALYSIS:

Resolution finding the Project is exempt from CEQA.

Beginning in September 2025, the design team began developing environmental documentation for the State of California in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Following initial documentation of the Project, BKF Engineer’s environmental subconsultant, LSA Associates, prepared a memorandum detailing the Project’s Statutory Exemption under CEQA in accordance with Public Resources Code Section 21080.25 and the Project’s Categorical Exemption under CEQA in accordance with Article 19 of the State CEQA Guidelines. LSAs’ Memorandum in Support of a Statutory Exemption and Categorical Exemption for the Canal Active Transportation Enhancements Project, San Rafael, Marin County, California, is included as Attachment 3.

The City of San Rafael City Council maintains the authority to make the final decision on the Project design and implementation. There is an ongoing community conversation around the inclusion of lighting improvements along Starkweather Path as part of the proposed Project. City staff is working with residents to identify needs and areas of concern related to proposed improvements.

The proposed lighting along Starkweather Path has been included in the CEQA documentation as it represents the broadest environmental footprint for consideration. However, the Statutory Exemption and Categorical Exemption for the Project would remain valid with or without the inclusion of the proposed lighting improvements along Starkweather Path, as the Project would still properly qualify for an exemption under Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(b)(1) and State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301 . A final decision on the inclusion of the proposed lighting along Starkweather Path has not been made by the City Council.

Additionally, the Project will require a San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) permit as it includes work within the first 100 feet inland from the shoreline around the San Francisco Bay. City staff is also working with other environmental regulatory agencies, including the San Francisco Regional Water Quality Control Board, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, to delineate any additional environmental requirements for the Project.

SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 3
Resolution approving and authorizing the City Manager to execute a Program Supplement Agreement with Caltrans for the Project.

In order for the City to request funding from the ATP grant for the next phase of the Project, an approved CEQA document must be on file with Caltrans and the California Transportation Commission (CTC).

The deadline for the City to request and receive an approved allocation letter from Caltrans for the next phase of the Project is March 31, 2026.

If the City Council approves the resolution, City staff will submit a request for allocation for the Project's Plans, Specifications, and Estimate (PS&E) phase of work. The request will include the approved CEQA documentation for CTC consideration. If approved, the City will receive a letter from Caltrans confirming the allocation of $630,000 in State ATP funds for the PS&E phase of the Project. An executed Program Supplement Agreement is required to receive ATP funds. Future ATP grant fund allocations for the construction phase of the Project will occur following the completion of the PS&E phase.

Adoption of these resolutions aligns with the goals of the City’s FY 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, including Goal B.2 “Develop and maintain an integrated, multi-modal transportation network that serves all users effectively and safely.”
COMMUNITY OUTREACH:

The City has held several outreach events for the Project to gather community input on the proposed enhancements. These events included an in-person community meeting with Canal Alliance on January 14, 2026, a virtual community workshop on December 9, 2025, and an in-person/virtual community meeting on November 18, 2025. The Project also had a feedback form on the website for residents to submit comments about the Project that closed on February 6, 2026. Staff has compiled questions, comments, and requests from these events into documents available on the Project’s website:
https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/canal-neighborhood-active-transportation-enhancement-project/.

Recordings of and presentation slides from the December 9, 2025, and November 18, 2025, meetings are also available on the Project’s website. The Project’s website has a section of Frequently Asked Questions related to both the general Project and specifically the proposed lighting along Starkweather Path.

The Project also has a public survey to gather information on how residents currently use the Starkweather Path. The survey will remain open until March 19, 2026, for input.

ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION:

Based on the evidence provided in the LSA’s Memorandum in Support of a Statutory Exemption and Categorical Exemption for the Canal Active Transportation Enhancements Project, San Rafael, Marin County, California, included as Attachment 3, the Project is eligible for a Statutory Exemption in accordance with Public Resources Code Section 21080.25 and a Class 1 Categorical Exemption in accordance with Sections 15301, Existing Facilities, of the State CEQA Guidelines. Because the proposed Project meets the criteria for the Statutory Exemption identified in Public Resources Code Section 21080.25 and for a Categorical Exemption under Section 15301 of the State CEQA Guidelines, it would not have a significant effect on the environment.

FISCAL IMPACT:

The Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget approved by the City Council on June 2, 2025, includes appropriations in the amount of $679,000 for the Project as part of the capital improvement program budget (Gas Tax – Fund 206). Prior years’ appropriations include an additional $1.289 million for the Project. No additional appropriations are being requested with these recommendations.

If the City Council adopts these resolutions, the City would be able to receive and use $630,000 in ATP funds for the Project's PS&E phase.

SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 4
OPTIONS:

The City Council has the following options to consider on this matter:

1. Adopt the proposed resolutions as presented.

2. Do not adopt the proposed resolutions as presented and provide further direction to staff. This option will result in a potential loss of grant funding for the Project.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

Staff recommends that the City Council adopt two resolutions:

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Resolution finding the Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancement Project is exempt from CEQA

2. Resolution to execute Program Supplement Agreement with Caltrans

3. Memorandum in Support of a Statutory Exemption and Categorical Exemption for the Canal Active Transportation Enhancements Project, San Rafael, Marin County, California

4. Public Comment
1 RESOLUTION NO.

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL FINDING THAT

THE CANAL NEIGHBORHOOD ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT PROJECT IS

EXEMPT FROM CEQA PURSUANT TO PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE SECTION 21080.25(b)(1) AND SECTION 15301 OF THE STATE CEQA GUIDELINES WHEREAS, the City has determined it is necessary to construct several pedestrian, lighting, bicycle, and transit enhancements in the public right-of-way and on City-owned property in the Canal neighborhood (the “Project”); and
WHEREAS, proposed pedestrian enhancements include curb ramp upgrades, sidewalk gap closures, corridor lighting improvements, and uncontrolled crosswalk enhancements on 19 existing streets and pathways in the public right-of-way and on City-owned property; and WHEREAS, proposed lighting improvements are included along Hoag Street, Harbor Street, Canal Street, Belvedere Street, Verdi Street, Larkspur Street, Novato Street, Fairfax Street, and Sonoma Street in the public right-of-way; and WHEREAS, proposed lighting improvements are included along the City-owned portions of Pickleweed Park, the Bahia Vista Path, and the San Francisco Bay Trail/Jean & John Starkweather Shoreline Park; and
WHEREAS, proposed bicycle improvements would construct bicycle boulevard treatments along Canal Street and Harbor Street in the public right-of-way to enhance the neighborhood’s bicycle network and add secure bicycle parking at Pickleweed Park; and WHEREAS, proposed transit improvements would add transit shelter enhancements at five high-ridership stops and would construct a new transit stop on Kerner Boulevard in the public right-of-way; and
WHEREAS, the Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(b)(1) provides: “Pedestrian and bicycle facilities that improve safety, access, or mobility, including new facilities, within the public right-of-way"; and
WHEREAS, the Project consists of improvements of and to pedestrian and bicycle facilities located in the public right-of-way (“Improvements”); and WHEREAS, the Improvements improve safety by reducing speeds and volumes of motor vehicles in the proximity of non-motorized users, improving visibility and sight distance between motorized and non-motorized users, eliminating potential conflict points between motorized and non-motorized users, upgrading inadequate bicycle facilities, trails, crosswalks, and sidewalks, and aiming to reduce behaviors that lead to collisions involving non-motorized users; and WHEREAS, the Improvements improve access by closing gaps in the pedestrian network by filling sidewalk gaps and adding or upgrading curb ramps to meet current standards, and 2 adding or upgrading existing bicycle connections to improve trip experiences for non-motorized users; and
WHEREAS, the Improvements improve mobility by filling critical gaps in the neighborhood’s active transportation network for vulnerable users, ensuring safe access to essential destinations, and creating more comfortable spaces for recreation; and WHEREAS, Article 19 of the State CEQA Guidelines includes, as required by the Public Resources Code Section 21084, a list of classes of projects that have been determined not to have a significant effect on the environment and, as a result, are exempt from review under CEQA; and
WHEREAS, State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, Existing Facilities, provides: “Class 1 consists of the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public or private structures, facilities, mechanical equipment, or topographical features, involving negligible or no expansion of existing or former use”; and WHEREAS, State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301(c) provides: “Existing highways and streets, sidewalks, gutters, bicycle and pedestrian trails, and similar facilities (this includes road grading for the purpose of public safety, and other alterations such as the addition of bicycle facilities, including but not limited to bicycle parking, bicycle-share facilities and bicycle lanes, transit improvements such as bus lanes, pedestrian crossings, street trees, and other similar alterations that do not create additional automobile lanes)”; and WHEREAS, all proposed Improvements would occur within the existing public right-ofway or on City-owned property established for recreation use and multi-modal transportation, with little to no expansion of the existing built-environmental footprint; and WHEREAS, there are no exceptions for the Project to qualify for the exemption under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 as identified in the State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2; and
WHEREAS, the Project qualifies for a CEQA Exemption as an Existing Facility (Class 1), consistent with the provisions of the State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of San Rafael hereby finds that the foregoing recitals are true and correct, based on the substantial evidence in the record, as set forth in the accompanying staff report, its attachments, staff’s presentation and public comments received, and the Project is hereby exempt from environmental review pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(b)(1) and Section 15301 of the State CEQA Guidelines.

I, LINDSAY LARA, Clerk of the City of San Rafael, hereby certify that the foregoing resolution was duly and regularly introduced and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of said City on the 2nd of March 2026, by the following vote, to wit:
3 AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:

Lindsay Lara, City Clerk
1 RESOLUTION NO.

RESOLUTION OF THE SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER

TO EXECUTE A PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT AGREEMENT WITH CALTRANS TO RECEIVE

STATE FUNDS
WHEREAS, the City of San Rafael is eligible to receive State funding for the Canal Active Transportation Experience Improvements Project through the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans); and
WHEREAS, a Program Supplement Agreement must be executed with the California Department of Transportation before such funds may be claimed; and WHEREAS, the City of San Rafael wishes to delegate authorization to execute the agreement and any amendments thereto to the City Manager; and WHEREAS, Caltrans requires the City Council to adopt a resolution authorizing the execution of the agreement between Caltrans and the City of San Rafael to ensure receipt of the funds; and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council hereby authorizes the City Manager to execute the Program Supplement Agreement, when received, and any amendments thereto with the California Department of Transportation.

AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:

Lindsay Lara, City Clerk
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CARLSBAD
CLOVIS
IRVINE

LOS ANGELES

PALM SPRINGS

EMERYVILLE

RIVERSIDE

ROSEVILLE

SAN LUIS OBISPO
6001 Shellmound Street, Emeryville, California 94608 805.782.0745 www.lsa.net

MEMORANDUM
DATE: February 20, 2026
TO: Becky Dower, Associate Principal, BKF
FROM: Shanna Guiler, Associate/Senior Environmental Planner, LSA Cesar Madrigal, Environmental Planner, LSA
SUBJECT: Memorandum in Support of a Statutory Exemption and Categorical Exemption for the Canal Active Transportation Enhancements Project, San Rafael, Marin County, California
This memorandum was prepared to support a Statutory Exemption and a Categorical Exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for the proposed Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project (project). The City of San Rafael (City) proposes to implement the Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project, which includes construction of various pedestrian, lighting, bicycle, and transit enhancements in the Canal neighborhood in San Rafael, Marin County.

BACKGROUND
The project is in San Rafael’s Canal neighborhood, Marin County. Limited shopping, education, health services, or job opportunities are available within the neighborhood, and travel to other locations is constrained by poor bicycle and pedestrian connections. This is particularly problematic as residents have low vehicle ownership rates and are largely reliant on walking, bicycling, and public transit. According to the Healthy Places Index, 28 percent of workers in the Canal neighborhood commute by transit, walking or cycling; this is higher than 94 percent of other California Census tracts.

In 2002, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) initiated the Community-Based Transportation Planning (CBTP) program to identify and create an action plan to address mobility needs for lower-income communities through a collaborative effort from residents, community organizations, and transportation agencies. CBTPs include a demographic analysis of the area, a list of community-prioritized transportation gaps and barriers, strategies and/or solutions to address these gaps, identification of potential funding sources, a list of stakeholders to implement the plan, and documented results of community outreach strategies. In conjunction with these goals, the City prepared the first CBTP for the City’s Canal neighborhood in 2006. Subsequently, in 2018, the MTC provided supplemental funding to update the CBTPs, and the City prepared and approved the second CBTP for the Canal neighborhood (Canal Neighborhood CBTP) in June 2022.

LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 2 The City has identified the Canal Neighborhood as a proposed Priority Development Area and an Equity Priority Community, thereby making it a CBTP candidate. As part of the Canal Neighborhood CBTP, the City identified recommended transportation solutions and prioritized them based on level of community support.

The project would support the complete design and construction of several pedestrian, lighting, bicycle, and transit enhancements in the Canal neighborhood, in accordance with the recommendations identified in the Canal Neighborhood CBTP. These enhancements would improve mobility, equity, safety, and comfort for people walking, biking, and using transit in the Canal neighborhood and would help residents reach key destinations such as schools, parks, and shopping in and out of the community.

The project has received funding through the Active Transportation Program, and the City committed additional funding to augment the design and construction budget for the project.

Residents have voiced their need for these improvements as part of the Canal Neighborhood CBTP.

PROJECT LOCATION
The project is in the Canal neighborhood, which is bounded by Interstate 580 (I-580) to the southeast, United States Route 101 (US-101) to the east, Bellam Boulevard to the south, and San Rafael Creek to the north. Regional access to the project area is provided by I-580 and US-101 (see Figure 1: Regional Location). Local access to the project area is provided by Bellam Boulevard and Francisco Boulevard (see Figure 2: Project Location).

The northern part of the Canal neighborhood includes natural features including the San Rafael Canal, a segment of the San Francisco Bay Trail, and parks and schools such as Pickleweed Park and Bahia Vista Elementary School. The southern part of the neighborhood includes a mix of local serving commercial uses, office buildings, auto repair and sales businesses, and miscellaneous commercial and industrial services.

PROJECT OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the project are to:
• Enhance corridor-wide pedestrian, bicycle, and transit facilities and connectivity • Increase safety through lighting improvements, crosswalk enhancements, and sidewalk gap closures
LSA
LSA I= I Project Location
0 1000 2000
FEET
SOURCE: USGS 7.5' Quad - Son Quentin /1993) and Son Rofoel /1993), CA FIGURE 1
Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project Regional Location
l:\2025\20252331\GIS\Pro\Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project\Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project.aprx (6/28/2025) 187.S 37S
FEET
SOURCE: Google Maps (2025)
Proposed Bike Boulevard Improvements
Sheet 1 of 4
0 Proposed Curb Ramp
D Proposed Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon
Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project Project Location
l:\2025\20252331\GIS\Pro\Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project\Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project.aprx (6/28/2025) 187.S 37S
FEET
SOURCE: Google Maps (2025)
Proposed Bike Boulevard Improvements
Sheet 2 of 4
0 Proposed Curb Ramp
D Proposed Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon
Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project Project Location
l:\2025\20252331\GIS\Pro\Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project\Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project.aprx (6/28/ 2025) 0 187.S 37S
FEET
SOURCE: Google Maps (2025)
0 Proposed Curb Ramp
Sheet 3 of 4
Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project Project Location
l:\2025\20252331\GIS\Pro\Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project\Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project.aprx (6/28/2025) 187.S 37S
FEET
SOURCE: Google Maps (2025)
0 Proposed Curb Ramp
Sheet 4 of 4
Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project Project Location
l:\2025\20252331\GIS\Pro\Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project\Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancements Project.aprx (6/28/2025) 2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 8

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The City proposes to implement a number of pedestrian, lighting, bicycle, and transit enhancements that include curb ramp upgrades, sidewalk gap closures, corridor lighting improvements, and uncontrolled crosswalk enhancements on 19 streets and pathways within the Canal neighborhood.

All improvements would be constructed within the public right-of-way along existing City streets or on City-owned property (e.g., along the San Francisco Bay Trail, at Pickleweed Park, and along the Bahia Vista Trail). Bicycle improvements would construct bicycle boulevard treatments along Harbor Street and Canal Street in the neighborhood's bicycle network and add secure bicycle parking at Pickleweed Park. Transit improvements would add transit shelter enhancements including transit seating, lighting, and wi-fi improvements at five high-ridership stops. The proposed project would also construct a new transit stop along a high-use transit route.

The proposed bicycle boulevard treatments would start at Harbor Street and extend onto Canal Street, eventually ending at the junction of Canal Street and Bahia Way. Additionally, the project would install five new, rectangular, rapid flashing beacons at the existing crosswalks along Canal Street, between Larkspur Street and Bahia Way. The project also proposes new curb ramps along Harbor Street, Mill Street, Canal Street, Belvedere Street, Verdi Street, and Fairfax Street.

The proposed project would also install lighting improvements such as lighting improvements along Hoag Street, Harbor Street, Canal Street, Belvedere Street, Verdi Street, Larkspur Street, Novato Street, Fairfax Street Sonoma Street, and around the Pickleweed Park and the San Francisco Bay Trail.

Specifically, the proposed lighting improvements within the proposed project area include:
• Installation of approximately 42 16-foot-tall overhead light fixtures spaced 100 feet apart with 23 of these light fixtures being placed along the existing Class I Path around Pickleweed Park and the remaining 19 light fixtures being placed along the existing San Francisco Bay Trail. • Installation of approximately 186 bollard-style light fixtures spaced approximately 25 feet apart and located on alternating sides of the existing Class I Paths, with 137 of these light fixtures being placed along the San Francisco Bay Trail and the remaining 49 along the Bahia Vista Trail.

In addition to the improvements listed above, the project proposes widening sidewalks from 4 to 6 feet along the following streets within the project area:
• Southbound side of Hoag Street
• Eastbound side of Front Street
• Southbound side of Harbor Street
• Eastbound side of Mill Street
LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 9 • Southbound side of Vivian Street
• Southbound side of Tiburon Street
• Eastbound side of Market Street (which would require removal of some of the existing on-street parking)
• Northbound side of Verdi Street (which would require removal of some of the existing on-street parking)
• Both sides of Louise Street (which would require removal of the existing on-street parking)

CONSTRUCTION DETAILS
Construction staging and grading would take place within the existing right-of-way or on City-owned property. Construction would require excavation to a maximum depth of approximately 15 feet for the overhead lighting fixtures proposed at Pickleweed Park and along the San Francisco Bay Trail, 7 feet for streetlight foundations and approximately 12 inches for the sidewalk areas. Additional construction activities may include storm drain relocation, which would be limited to relocating catch basins to facilitate curb ramp installation. Other utilities within the proposed project area are anticipated to be protected in place. Minimal earthwork is anticipated and would not exceed more than 1,000 cubic yards of cut and fill. Approximately 100 square feet of vegetation removal is anticipated for lighting improvements along the San Francisco Bay Trail, and two street trees in poor health at 90 Louise Street may be removed as a result of the proposed project improvements.

The overall footprint of construction would be approximately 1 acre.

The proposed project is anticipated to begin final design in spring 2027. Construction is anticipated to begin in spring 2028 and be completed by fall 2028 and take approximately 120 working days.

Construction of the proposed project is expected to have approximately 10 workers on site each working day, with the estimated total cost of construction to be approximately $4 million.

SENATE BILL 288 AND SENATE BILL 922
In September 2020, Governor Newsom signed Senate Bill 288 (SB 288) into law. SB 288 amends the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), to provide streamlining for certain types of transportation-related projects. Specifically, SB 288 creates Public Resources Code Section 21080.25, which establishes statutory exemptions for projects related to the institution or increase of public mass transit, including bus, bus rapid transit, light rail, and passenger rail, or commuter services, including pedestrian and bicycle facilities. This list of projects, established in Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(b) have been determined not to have a significant effect on the environment and, as a result, are exempt from review under CEQA.

Senate Bill 922 (SB 922), approved by Governor Newsom in September 2022, expands upon SB 288 to expedite bike, pedestrian, light rail, and rapid bus projects. The bill amends Public Resources Code Sections 21080.20 and 21080.25, and extends the existing exemption for seven more years, LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 10 through January 1, 2030. The bill also removes certain eligibility requirements previously required (e.g. now not all projects have to be in urbanized areas), adds “active transportation plans” and “pedestrian plans” to the list of exempt projects, imposes new requirements for anti-displacement analyses for projects exceeding $100 million, and adds new requirements for projects that exceed $50 million. Furthermore, lead agencies must file a Notice of Exemption and hold a public hearing when implementing an exemption under SB 922.

STATUTORY EXEMPTION
As described above, SB 288 creates Public Resources Code Section 21080.25, which establishes statutory exemptions for projects related to the institution or increase of public mass transit, including bus, bus rapid transit, light rail, and passenger rail, or commuter services, including pedestrian and bicycle facilities. This list of projects, established in Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(b) have been determined not to have a significant effect on the environment and, as a result, are exempt from review under CEQA. This document has been prepared to serve as the basis for compliance with CEQA as it pertains to the project, and to demonstrate that the project qualifies for a CEQA Exemption, consistent with the provisions of Public Resources Code Section 21080.25.

Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(b)(1) states that CEQA shall not apply to “pedestrian and bicycle facilities, including new facilities. Bicycle facilities include bicycle parking, bicycle sharing facilities, and bikeways, as defined in Section 890.4 of the Streets and Highways Code.” Section 890.4 of the Streets and Highways Code defines these facilities as all facilities that provide primarily for, and promote bicycle travel (e.g., bike paths [Class I bikeways], bike lanes [Class II bikeways], and bike routes [Class III bikeways] and cycle tracks [Class IV bikeways]).

As stated above, the project would include curb ramp upgrades, sidewalk gap closures, corridor lighting improvements, crosswalk enhancements, transit enhancements, bicycle boulevard improvements, and lighting improvements within the project area to enhance corridor-wide pedestrian, bicycle, and transit facilities and connectivity. These improvements would enhance safety and visibility for all travelers within the project area and also improve connectivity to the Pickleweed Park and the San Francisco Bay Trail. Due to its nature, the project properly qualifies for an exemption under Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(b)(1) and, as a result, would not have a significant effect on the environment. Additionally, the analysis provided below shows that the proposed project meets the criteria for qualifying for the statutory exemption, as identified in Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(c).

The City of San Rafael City Council maintains the authority to make the final decision on the project design and implementation. There is an ongoing community conversation around the inclusion of lighting improvements along Starkweather Path as part of the proposed project. City staff are working with the affected communities to identify needs and areas of concern related to proposed improvements. However, the Statutory Exemption for the project would remain valid with or without the inclusion of lighting improvements along Starkweather Path, as the project would still properly qualify for an exemption under Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(b)(1).

LSA
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STATUTORY EXEMPTION CRITERIA
In addition to meeting the definition of exempt projects established in Public Resources Code Section 21080.25 (e.g., pedestrian and bicycle facilities), the project must meet specific criteria, as specified in Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(c), Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(d), and Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(e) in order to be considered exempt under Public Resources Code Section 21080.25. Each of the criteria established in the Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(c)(d)(e) is listed below, followed by an explanation of why the proposed project meets those criteria.

Criterion (1): Lead Agency
a. A local agency is carrying out the project and is the lead agency for the project. (Section 21080.25(c)(1))
As stated above, the project would be implemented by the City of San Rafael, a local public agency.

The City is both the project proponent and Lead Agency for environmental review. Therefore, the proposed project meets this criterion.

Criterion (2): Addition of Lanes, Widening, and Physical Infrastructure b. The project does not induce single-occupancy vehicle trips, add additional highway lanes, widen highways, or add physical infrastructure or striping to highways except for minor modifications needed for the efficient and safe movement of transit vehicles, bicycles, or high-occupancy vehicles, such as extended merging lanes, shoulder improvements, or improvements to the roadway within the existing right of way. The project shall not include the addition of any auxiliary lanes. (Section 21080.25(c)(2)) The project would include pedestrian, bicycle, and transit enhancements within the Canal Neighborhood, largely within the existing roadway right-of-way. The project does not include the addition of any physical infrastructure that would increase automobile capacity within any City rightof-way within the project area. Furthermore, the project would not induce single-occupancy vehicle trips as it involves improvements related to pedestrian, bicycle, transit, and lighting infrastructure within the project area. Therefore, the proposed project meets this criterion.

Criterion (3): Demolition of Affordable Housing Units
c. The construction of the project shall not require the demolition of affordable units. (Section 21080.25(c)(3))
The project does not require the demolition of any affordable residential units. As stated earlier, the project would occur within the Canal Neighborhood within the City’s existing right-of-way and implement pedestrian, bicycle, transit, and lighting improvements within the project area.

Therefore, the project would not require demolition of any affordable housing units LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 12 Criterion (4): Projects Exceeding $100,000,000
d. For projects exceeding $100,000,000 in 2026 United States dollars, a project shall also meet all of the following:
1) The project is incorporated in a regional transportation plan, sustainable communities strategy, general plan or other plan that has undergone a programmatic-level environmental review in the last 10 years.
2) The project’s construction impacts are fully mitigated consistent with applicable law. 3) The lead agency shall complete and consider the results of a project business case and racial equity analysis. The Office of Planning and Research may set guidelines for the project business case and the racial equity analysis or delegate that authority to metropolitan planning organizations.
4) The lead agency shall hold noticed public meetings as follows:
a) Before determining that a project is exempt pursuant to this section, the lead agency shall hold at least three noticed public meetings in the project area to hear and respond to public comments.
b) At least one of the three public meetings shall review the project business case and the racial equity analysis. The review of these documents does not inhibit or preclude application of this section.
c) The lead agency shall conduct at least two noticed public meetings annually during project construction for the public to provide comments. d) The public meetings held pursuant to clauses (a) to (c) above, inclusive, shall be in the form of either a public community planning meeting held in the project area or in the form of a regularly scheduled meeting of the governing body of the lead agency. (Section 21080.25(d)(1))
As identified above, construction of the project would be approximately four million dollars. The project would not exceed $100,000,000 in 2026 United States dollars; therefore, the additional criteria identified under this criterion do not apply to the project.

Further, the project has been designed to minimize environmental impacts and fully mitigate construction impacts. Additionally, the project is located primarily within an urbanized area and all construction activities would be conducted in accordance with the City of San Rafael’s General Provisions and Standards of Conditions, which apply to encroachment permits within the City rightof-way, the City of San Rafael Municipal Code, and the Uniform Construction Standards and Specifications of the Cities of Marin. These general provisions include standard measures that would reduce the potential for impacts to any environmental resources within the project area. With the LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 13 implementation of identified standard measures, there would be no significant environmental impacts under CEQA.

Criterion (5): Project Exceeding $50,000,000
e. For a project exceeding fifty million dollars ($50,000,000), the lead agency shall hold public meetings in accordance with the requirements established in SB 922. (Section 21080.25(e)(1))
As identified above, construction of the project would be approximately four million dollars. The project would not exceed $50,000,000 dollars in 2026 United States dollars. Additionally, the City is the lead agency of the project and would take an action at a public meeting of its governing board to certify that the project will be completed.

Criterion (6): Lead Agency Public Meeting Action
f. The Lead Agency shall take an action at a public meeting of its governing board to certify that the project will be completed by a skilled and trained workforce. (Section 21080.25(f)(1)) The project would be constructed by a skilled and trained workforce consistent with the City of San Rafael standard contract terms. The City’s standard contract language requires all work to be performed in an efficient skillful manner following the best practices in compliance with contract documents and applicable laws, regulations, codes, standards, and permits. Therefore, the proposed project meets this criterion.

CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION
Article 19 of the State CEQA Guidelines includes, as required by PRC Section 21084, a list of classes of projects that have been determined not to have a significant effect on the environment and, as a result, are exempt from review under CEQA. This document has been prepared to serve as the basis for compliance with CEQA as it pertains to the proposed project, and to demonstrate that the proposed project qualifies for a CEQA Exemption as an Existing Facility (Class I), consistent with the provisions of State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301 and 15300.2. Specifically, the information provided herein shows the following:
a. The project qualifies for an exemption under State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301 (i.e., Class 1) and as a result, would not have a significant effect on the environment. b. The analysis shows there are no exceptions to qualifying for the exemption, as identified in State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2.

State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, Existing Facilities, defines Class 1 projects as the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public or private structures, facilities, mechanical equipment, or topographical features, involving negligible, or no expansion of existing or former use. Specifically, Section 15301(c) includes existing highways and streets, sidewalks, gutters, bicycle and pedestrian trails and similar facilities, and other alterations LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 14 such as the addition of bicycle facilities, including but not limited to bicycle parking, bicycle-share facilities and bicycle lanes, pedestrian crossings, street trees, and other similar alterations that do not create additional automobile lanes.

As described in the Project Description, the project would include curb ramp upgrades, sidewalk gap closures, corridor lighting improvements, crosswalk enhancements, transit enhancements, bicycle boulevard improvements, and lighting improvements within the project area to enhance corridorwide pedestrian, bicycle, and transit facilities and connectivity. These improvements would enhance safety and visibility for all travelers within the project area and also improve connectivity to the Pickleweed Park and the San Francisco Bay Trail. All proposed improvements would occur within the existing public right-of-way or on City-owned land established for recreation use/multi-modal transportation (e.g., along the San Francisco Bay Trail, at Pickleweed Park, and along the Bahia Vista Trail), with little to no expansion of the built-environment footprint. Therefore, the proposed project properly qualifies for an exemption under State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301.

As the proposed project qualifies for an exemption under State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301 (i.e., Class 1), the proposed project would not have a significant effect on the environment.

Additionally, the following analysis demonstrates that there are no exceptions to qualifying for the CE, as identified in State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2.

EXCEPTIONS TO CATEGORICAL EXEMPTIONS
In addition to investigating the applicability of State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301 (Class 1) to the proposed project, this memorandum assesses whether any of the exceptions to qualifying for the CE are present. The following analysis compares the criteria of State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 (Exceptions) to the proposed project. As described in the analysis below, LSA has determined that none of the exceptions are applicable to the proposed project.

Criterion 15300.2(a): Location
a. Location. Classes 3, 4, 5, 6, and 11 are qualified by consideration of where the project is to be located – a project that is ordinarily insignificant in its impact on the environment may in a particularly sensitive environment be significant. Therefore, these classes are considered to apply in all instances, except where the Project may impact on an environmental resource of hazardous or critical concern where designated, precisely mapped, and officially adopted pursuant to law by federal, State, or local agencies.

The project does not qualify for an exception under Classes 3, 4, 5, 6 or 11. The project is located within an urban developed area and is not located within a sensitive environment. In addition, the project would not result in any impacts on an environmental resource of hazardous or critical concern. Therefore, the exception under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2(a) does not apply to the project.

LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 15 Criterion 15300.2(b): Cumulative Impact
b. Cumulative Impact. All exemptions for these classes are inapplicable when the cumulative impact of successive projects of the same type in the same place, over time is significant.

A cumulative impact from several projects is the change in the environment that results from the incremental impact of a project when added to other closely related past, present, and reasonably foreseeable probable future projects (State CEQA Guidelines Section 15355(b)). Related projects considered to have the potential of creating a cumulative impact in association with the proposed project consist of projects that are reasonably foreseeable and that would be constructed or operated during the life of the proposed project.

The proposed project would not result in any long-term or growth-inducing impacts that would be cumulatively considerable when viewed in conjunction with any subsequent projects in the same location. No permanent or long-term effects, such as loss of wetlands or other sensitive natural communities, take of special-status species, significant increase in vehicle trips, or creation of stationary sources of air and noise emissions, would occur as part of the proposed project.

Furthermore, the effects of the proposed project would generally be beneficial, as the proposed project would provide pedestrian, bicyclist and transit improvements to serve the local community.

Proposed improvements would be installed within existing public right-of-way and on City-owned property, which is currently in use for the purpose of recreation and multi-modal transportation (e.g., trails and park). No other projects are anticipated to occur in the immediate area of the proposed project at the same time. Therefore, the project’s contributions to potential cumulative impacts would not be cumulatively considerable, and the exception under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2(b) does not apply to the proposed project.

Criterion 15300.2(c): Significant Effects
c. Significant Effect. A categorical exemption shall not be used for an activity where there is a reasonable possibility that the activity will have a significant effect on the environment due to unusual circumstances.

No unusual circumstances have been identified in or around the project site that would result in significant environmental impacts. The proposed project would include the construction of pedestrian, lighting, bicycle, and transit enhancements that include curb ramp upgrades, sidewalk gap closures, corridor lighting improvements, and uncontrolled crosswalk enhancements on 19 streets and pathways within the Canal neighborhood. The construction methods that would be utilized as part of the proposed project are typical for a project of this type, and no specialized equipment or methods would be required to complete construction. Therefore, the proposed project would not include any unusual circumstances that would have a significant effect on the environment, as further demonstrated below.

Based on field reviews of the project site and review of the pertinent literature, as described below, the potential for significant adverse environmental impacts as defined under CEQA is negligible.

With the implementation of standard regulatory compliance measures, there would be no LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 16 significant environmental impacts under CEQA. Therefore, the exception under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2(c) does not apply to the proposed project.

Aesthetics. No scenic vistas are identified in the City of San Rafael General Plan 20401 to or from the project site. Limited scenic vistas are possible from the majority of the project sites due to the relatively flat topography and the surrounding urban development; however, views of the San Francisco Bay are visible from several public vantage points, including the San Francisco Bay Trail and Pickleweed Park. Visible elements of the project would include curb ramp upgrades, wider sidewalks, crosswalk enhancements, transit shelter enhancements, bicycle boulevard treatments, and a new transit shelter. Proposed improvements would largely be at-grade and would not include tall structures or landscaping that might obscure views of the San Francisco Bay. Due to their relatively small scale, proposed improvements would not result in substantial adverse effects to scenic vistas.

As further described below under the discussion of Criterion 15300.2(d), Scenic Highway, no scenic highways are located in the vicinity of the project site.

Existing streetlights within the project area provide nighttime lighting and this lighting would remain on site. As described above, proposed lighting improvements would include 186 bollard-style light fixtures. These bollards may have lighting; however, bollards would be low to the ground and would not contribute light or glare that would spillover onto adjacent properties. In addition, 42 16-foottall overhead light fixtures would be installed. These lights would be low-level, shielded light fixtures, which would direct the light downward onto the existing pathways. Such lighting would be consistent with existing lighting in the project area and would not create a new source of substantial light or glare that would adversely affect day or nighttime views. All temporary construction-related sources of light or glare (i.e., construction equipment headlights/safety lights) would cease following completion of construction.

Therefore, the proposed project would not impact scenic views or scenic resources, degrade the existing visual character or quality of the project site, or create a new source of substantial light or glare.

Agriculture and Forestry Resources. The project site is located within an urbanized setting in the City of San Rafael and no agriculture or forestry resources currently occupy the site. According to the California Department of Conservation, Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP), the project site is designated as Urban and Built-Up Land”. 2 The project site is not zoned for agricultural uses, nor is it under a Williamson Act contract. Therefore, no impacts to agriculture and forestry resources would occur with implementation of the proposed project. 1 City of San Rafael, 2021. City of San Rafael General Plan 2040. August 2. Available online at:
https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/gp-2040-document-library/ (Accessed February 20, 2026). 2 California Department of Conservation, n.d. Division of Land Use Resource Protection, California Important Farmland Finder. Website: maps.conservation.ca.gov/DLRP/CIFF (accessed February 20, 2026).

LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 17 Air Quality. During construction, short-term degradation of air quality may occur due to the release of particulate matter emissions (i.e., fugitive dust) generated by grading, hauling, and other activities. Emissions from construction equipment are also anticipated and would include carbon monoxide (CO), reactive organic gases (ROG), nitrogen oxides (NOx), directly emitted particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), and toxic air contaminants (TACs) such as diesel exhaust particulate matter.

The Bay Area Air District requires the implementation of Basic Construction Mitigation Measures, provided below, to reduce construction dust impacts and emissions to a less than significant level whether or not construction-related emission exceed applicable thresholds. The City implements these measures for applicable construction activities.

1. All exposed surfaces (e.g., parking areas, staging areas, soil piles, graded areas, and unpaved access roads) shall be watered two times per day.

2. All haul trucks transporting soil, sand, or other loose material off-site shall be covered.

3. All visible mud or dirt track-out onto adjacent public roads shall be removed using wet power vacuum street sweepers at least once per day. The use of dry power sweeping is prohibited.

4. All vehicle speeds on unpaved roads shall be limited to 15 mph.

5. All roadways, driveways, and sidewalks to be paved shall be completed as soon as possible.

Building pads shall be laid as soon as possible after grading unless seeding or soil binders are used.

6. Idling times shall be minimized either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the maximum idling time to 5 minutes (as required by the California airborne toxics control measure Title 13, Section 2485 of California Code of Regulations [CCR]). Clear signage shall be provided for construction workers at all access points.

7. All construction equipment shall be maintained and properly tuned in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications. All equipment shall be checked by a certified mechanic and determined to be running in proper condition prior to operation.

8. Post a publicly visible sign with the telephone number and person to contact at the Lead Agency regarding dust complaints. This person shall respond and take corrective action within 48 hours. The BAAQMD’s phone number shall also be visible to ensure compliance with applicable regulations.

Long-term air pollutant emissions are those associated with mobile sources (e.g., vehicle trips), energy sources (e.g., electricity), and area sources (e.g., landscape maintenance equipment use) related to the proposed project. As discussed above, the proposed project would improve bicycle, pedestrian, and transit infrastructure within the Canal neighborhood. The project would not LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 18 increase the capacity of existing roadways, but would enhance opportunities for multi-modal transportation and increase connectivity within the neighborhood. Therefore, the project would not result in a significant increase in the generation of vehicle trips that would increase air pollutant emissions. The project would result in low levels of off-site emissions due to energy generation associated with lighting along the pathway. However, these emissions would be minimal and would not exceed the pollutant thresholds established by the Air District. Therefore, the proposed project would not be a significant source of operational emissions.

Since the proposed project would not result in significant construction- or operation-related air quality impacts, the proposed project would not conflict with applicable air quality plans and would not expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations. In addition, the proposed project would not result in other emissions (such as those leading to odors) adversely affecting a substantial number of people. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in short- or longterm air quality impacts.

Biological Resources. The land within the project boundaries is primarily developed with buildings, roads, and sidewalks with some landscaped areas along the sidewalks and trail system. The landscaping of ornamental trees and shrubs provides habitat for urban-adapted species including American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), California scrub jay (Aphelocoma californica), northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos), house finch (Haemorhous mexicanus), and eastern fox squirrel (Sciurus niger) among others. The eastern portion of the project area, which abuts San Rafael Creek and San Francisco Bay, contains salt marshes with pickleweed (Salicornia pacifica), saltgrass (Distichlis spicata), alkali heath (Frankenia salina), marsh gumplant (Grindelia stricta var. angustifolia), fat hen (Atriplex prostrata), and cord grass (Sporobolus spp.). The salt marshes provide suitable habitat for special-status wildlife species, including salt marsh harvest mouse, California black rail, and California Ridgway’s rail.

An additional vegetation community present along the eastern portion of the site is ruderal grassland with semi-natural landscaping. This vegetation type consists of mainly non-native herbaceous plants and ornamental shrubs and trees that can withstand high frequency disturbances, including foot-traffic, bicycles, and trash. The plants in this area include wild oats (Avena spp.), Italian ryegrass (Festuca perennis), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), short pod mustard (Hirschfeldia incana), and stork’s-bill (Erodium spp.) among others.

The southeastern extent of the project area contains many California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi) burrow, which in addition to the rock rip-rap along the bay side of the trail may provide suitable burrowing habitat for burrowing owl. No CNDDB occurrences of burrowing owl have been recorded at the project site, but CNDDB records and eBird observations in the vicinity have been winter observations, implying that burrowing owls winter, but do not breed in the region.

All of the proposed project improvements would occur within existing disturbed area. No direct impacts to special-status species, sensitive natural communities or wetland areas are anticipated as all work would occur in upland and previously disturbed areas. No in-water work would be required.

Implementation of best management practices would ensure that temporary, indirect effects on LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 19 wildlife associated with project construction would be reduced to less than significant. Prior to project construction, the City would be required to obtain a permit from BCDC and to comply with all permit conditions.

Cultural Resources. Please refer to the discussion under Criterion 15300.2(f), Historical Resources.

No cultural resources or human remains have been identified within or adjacent to the project site.

Implementation of standard contract specifications would ensure that undiscovered resources are not adversely affected. Therefore, the proposed project would not cause an adverse change in the significance of a historical or archaeological resource.

Energy. Construction of the proposed project would require the use of energy to fuel grading vehicles, trucks, and other construction vehicles. All or most of this energy would be derived from non-renewable resources. In order to increase energy efficiency on the site during project construction, the project would restrict equipment idling times to 5 minutes or less and would require construction workers to shut off idle equipment, as required by the BAAQMD’s Basic Construction Mitigation Measures. In addition, construction activities are not anticipated to result in an inefficient use of energy as gasoline and diesel fuel would be supplied by construction contractors who would conserve the use of their supplies to minimize their costs on the project.

Energy usage on the project site during construction would be temporary in nature and would be relatively small in comparison to the State’s available energy sources. Therefore, construction energy impacts would be less than significant.

Typically, energy consumption is associated with fuel used for vehicle trips and natural gas and energy use. However, the proposed project would result in the construction of bicycle, pedestrian and transit improvement within existing public right-of-way and on City-owned trails and pathways.

Additionally, operation of the proposed project would not require the consumption of natural gas.

The nature of proposed improvements would not require substantial amounts of energy for either construction or maintenance purposes. Therefore, the proposed project would not use nonrenewable resources in a wasteful or inefficient manner. Furthermore, the proposed project would not conflict with or obstruct a State or local plan for renewable energy or for addressing energy efficiency.

Geology and Soils. The project site, like most of California, would be subject to seismic ground shaking in the event of an earthquake. According to the City’s General Plan, the project site is not located on an Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone and the nearest active fault, the San Andreas Fault, is located approximately 10 miles west of the project site.

The project site is generally level and consists primarily of impervious surfaces associated with the existing roadways, sidewalks, and trails. No habitable structures would be constructed as part of the proposed project; however, proposed improvements could be at risk from seismic-related ground failure. The proposed project would be designed and constructed consistent with the most current earthquake resistance standards for Seismic Zone 4 in the California Building Code, which includes specifications for site preparation. Compliance with California Building Code requirements would ensure that impacts associated with liquefaction would be less than significant. Based on the LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 20 analysis provided above, the proposed project would not result in impacts related to geology and soils.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Construction activities, such as site preparation, excavation and grading, on-site heavy-duty construction vehicles, equipment hauling materials to and from the project site, and motor vehicles transporting construction crew, would produce combustion emissions from various sources. However, due to the small area of disturbance and limited number of project components, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions during construction would be negligible. In addition, operation of the proposed project would generate minimal GHG emissions associated with electricity for proposed lighting improvements, and activities such routine maintenance. However, these emissions would be minimal and would not exceed thresholds established by Air District. As such, the proposed project would not generate substantial GHG emissions that may have a significant impact on the environment and would not conflict with any applicable plans, policies, or regulations adopted for the purpose of reducing GHG emissions.

Hazards and Hazardous Materials. Please refer to the discussion below under Criterion 15300.2(e), Hazardous Waste Sites.

Hydrology and Water Quality. Construction activities are subject to the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permit for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Construction and Land Disturbance Activities (Construction General Permit), Order No. 2022-0057-DWQ, NPDES No. CAS000002.3 Any construction activity, including grading, that would result in the disturbance of 1 acre or more would require compliance with SWRCB’s Construction General Permit. In addition, preparation of an Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP) and implementation of construction BMPs would be required in compliance with Sections 9.30.140, Construction-phase Best Management Practices and 9.30.150, Erosion and Sediment Control Plan Requirements, of the City of San Rafael Municipal Code. Additionally, proposed improvements would not substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the project site or area, and the resulting increase in storm water runoff associated with implementation of the proposed project would be minimal. The proposed project would not substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff from the project site or substantially change the quality of stormwater runoff. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in significant water quality impacts.

Land Use and Planning. The proposed project would construct pedestrian, lighting, bicycle, and transit enhancements that include curb ramp upgrades, sidewalk gap closures, corridor lighting improvements, and uncontrolled crosswalk enhancements on 19 streets and pathways within the Canal neighborhood. Therefore, the proposed project would not physically divide an established community. The proposed project would be consistent with the City’s General Plan Circulation Element related to roadway safety and vehicle and bicycle access within the City and does not propose or require any changes to the land use or zoning designations of the project site. Therefore, the proposed project would have no impact associated with land use and planning. 3 NPDES General Permit for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Construction and Land Disturbance Activities (Order No. 2022-0057-DWQ, NPDES No. CAS000002) LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 21 Mineral Resources. Given the location of the City of San Rafael in the urbanized context of the San Francisco Bay Area and the lack of mineral resources in the area, the proposed project would not affect any known mineral resources, the proposed project would not impact mineral resources.

Noise. Construction of the proposed project would include the use of paving machines and rollers to repave asphalt and trucks to haul materials from the site. Ground-borne vibration associated with project construction activities could be perceptible; however, these levels would not be substantial.

Construction noise is permitted by the City when activities occur between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays. Construction activity is not allowed on Sundays and holidays. Construction of the proposed project would be restricted to the daytime hours as allowed by the City Municipal Code.

Therefore, the proposed project would have no construction-related noise impact.

The proposed project would construct pedestrian, lighting, bicycle, and transit enhancements that include curb ramp upgrades, sidewalk gap closures, corridor lighting improvements, and uncontrolled crosswalk enhancements on 19 streets and pathways within the Canal neighborhood.

Operation of proposed improvements would not result in exposure of persons to increased noise levels since the project is not expected to generate an increase in vehicular traffic or other operational noise. Therefore, the proposed project would not expose persons to noise levels in excess of local standards.

Population and Housing. The proposed project would construct pedestrian, lighting, bicycle, and transit enhancements that include curb ramp upgrades, sidewalk gap closures, corridor lighting improvements, and uncontrolled crosswalk enhancements on 19 streets and pathways within the Canal neighborhood. The project would not construct additional major infrastructure so as to encourage population growth or new development within the immediate area or the City. The project does not include new development or uses and would therefore not induce substantial population growth in the project area either directly or indirectly. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in impacts to population and housing.

Public Services. The proposed project would construct pedestrian, lighting, bicycle, and transit enhancements that include curb ramp upgrades, sidewalk gap closures, corridor lighting improvements, and uncontrolled crosswalk enhancements on 19 streets and pathways within the Canal neighborhood.. The proposed project improvements would not require additional public services (e.g., fire protection, police protection, schools, or parks) beyond what currently exists.

Therefore, the proposed project would not result in impacts to public services.

Recreation. The proposed project would construct pedestrian, lighting, bicycle, and transit enhancements that include curb ramp upgrades, sidewalk gap closures, corridor lighting improvements, and uncontrolled crosswalk enhancements on 19 streets and pathways within the Canal neighborhood. Construction of proposed improvements could increase the use of bike lanes, sidewalks and trails within the project area, but it is not anticipated that this slight increase in use would result in physical deterioration of existing bicycle or pedestrian facilities. Implementation of the proposed project is intended to enhance these types of facilities and provide greater LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 22 connectivity within the Canal neighborhood. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in impacts associated with recreational facilities.

Transportation. The proposed project would construct pedestrian, lighting, bicycle, and transit enhancements that include curb ramp upgrades, sidewalk gap closures, corridor lighting improvements, and uncontrolled crosswalk enhancements on 19 streets and pathways within the Canal neighborhood. The proposed project would not add vehicular traffic to the street system, but instead would provide pedestrian, bicycle and transit improvements that could be used by nonmotorized commuters. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in impacts related to transportation.

Tribal Cultural Resources. As discussed under Criterion 15300.2(f): Historic Resources below, the proposed project would not cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in Section 15064.5 of the State CEQA Guidelines. In addition, given the previous disturbance of the project site, the likelihood of encountering subsurface tribal cultural resources during ground-disturbing activities is low. Furthermore, Assembly Bill (AB) 52 consultation is not required for categorically exempt projects. Therefore, impacts to tribal cultural resources would not occur.

Utilities and Service Systems. The proposed project would construct pedestrian, lighting, bicycle, and transit enhancements that include curb ramp upgrades, sidewalk gap closures, corridor lighting improvements, and uncontrolled crosswalk enhancements on 19 streets and pathways within the Canal neighborhood. The proposed project would not require water or wastewater treatment as no potable water and/or toilets would be provided as part of the proposed project.

Existing storm drain facilities would be maintained as part of the proposed project. As described above, inlets or other means would be provided, where needed, to convey stormwater into the existing storm drain system, drainage ditches, and/or detention basins with minimal alteration to existing drainage patterns.

The minimal quantities of construction waste and solid waste generated during construction of the proposed project would be collected and disposed of at off-site landfills that have adequate capacity to serve the project. Operation of the project would not generate solid waste.

Given the nature of the proposed project, demand for water, wastewater treatment, storm water drainage, electricity, and solid waste disposal would be negligible. Therefore, the proposed project would have no impact on utilities or service systems.

Wildfire Hazard. The proposed project site is located within a developed urban area and consists of pedestrian, lighting, bicycle, and transit enhancements on 19 streets and pathways within the Canal neighborhood. The project site is not located within any State responsibility areas (SRA) for fire LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 23 service and is not within a very high fire hazard severity zone. 4 Further, proposed improvements are consistent with existing use of the public roads and trails and surrounding urban development.

Therefore, the proposed project would not exacerbate wildfire risks, impair an adopted emergency response plan or evacuation plan, expose people or structures to significant risks from wildlife, or expose project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire.

Conclusion. As described above, the proposed project would not result in a significant effect on the environment due to unusual circumstances. Therefore, the exception under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2(c) does not apply to the proposed project.

Criterion 15300.2(d): Scenic Highway
d. A categorical exemption shall not be used for a project, which may result in damage to scenic resources, including but not limited to, trees, historic buildings, rock outcroppings, or similar resources, within a highway officially designated as a State Scenic Highway. This criterion does not apply to improvements required as mitigation by an adopted Negative Declaration or certified EIR.

The project site is not within view of an officially designated State scenic highway.5 Therefore, no scenic resources within view of a State Scenic Highway would be altered as part of the proposed project, and the exception under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2(d) does not apply to the proposed project.

Criterion 15300.2(e): Hazardous Waste Sites
e. A categorical exemption shall not be used for a project located on a site, which is included on any list compiled pursuant to Section 65962.5 of the Government Code.

Proposed improvements would be located within public rights-of-way and on City-owned property (e.g., San Francisco Bay Trail, Pickleweed Park, and Bhatia Vista Trail). The project site does not include any active storage sites listed on the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Leaking Underground Storage (LUST) database6 or the California Department of Toxic Substances Control 4 California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. n.d. Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer. Website:
https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/03beab8511814e79a0e4eabf0d3e7247/ (accessed February 20, 2026). 5
California Department of Transportation. n.d. California Scenic Highway System Map. Website:
https://caltrans.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=465dfd3d807c46cc8e8057116f1aac aa (accessed February 20, 2026). 6 State Water Resources Control Board. n.d. GeoTracker. Website:
https://geotracker.waterboards.ca.gov/map/?CMD=runreport&myaddress=PIckleweed+park%2C+San+Ra fael%2C+Ca (accessed February 20, 2026).

LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 24 (DTSC) site cleanup program,
7 two of the component databases of the State’s Hazardous Waste and Substances Site List (Cortese List) of known hazardous materials compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5. According the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Geotracker website,8 there are several Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) and Cleanup Program sites in the Canal neighborhood. All of these sites are identified closed. Therefore, no impacts associated with locating a project on a site included on a list of hazardous materials would occur, and the exception under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2(e) does not apply to the proposed project.

Criterion 15300.2(f) Historic Resources
f. A categorical exemption shall not be used for a project, which may cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource.

All improvements would be constructed within previously disturbed and paved areas. Excavation on the project site would be limited to re-paving of existing facilities and installation of proposed improvements. Construction work would occur entirely within previously disturbed areas and therefore is not expected to unearth artifacts or resources during project construction. However, in the unlikely event that an archaeological resource is discovered, the City would implement the following standard condition of approval that is required of all ground-disturbing development projects within the City. Adherence to this condition of approval would ensure the proposed project would not result in a substantial adverse change in the significant of a historical resource. • If prehistoric or historical archeological resources are found during construction activities, all activities would be redirected off site and a qualified archaeologist would be notified to assess the situation. The City of San Rafael, Marin County, and the qualified archaeologist would evaluate the significance of the deposit and make recommendations regarding the treatment of the deposit in accordance with local and State regulations. It is recommended that adverse effects to the find be avoided by project activities. If the deposit qualifies as a historical resource or unique archaeological resource, adverse effects on the deposit must be avoided, or such effects must be mitigated. Mitigation may consist of, but is not limited to, recovery and analysis of the archaeological deposit; recording the resource; preparing a report of findings; and the curation of recovered archaeological materials at an appropriate facility. Upon completion of the assessment, the archaeologist shall prepare a report documenting the methods and results and provide recommendations for the treatment of the archaeological deposits discovered. The report shall be submitted to the City of San Rafael and the Northwest Information Center. 7 California Department of Toxic Substances Control. n.d. EnviroStor. Website:
https://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public/map/?myaddress=Pickleweed+Park%2C+San+Rafael%2C+CA (accessed February 20, 2026). 8 State Water Resources Control Board. n.d. GeoTracker. Website:
https://geotracker.waterboards.ca.gov/map/?CMD=runreport&myaddress=PIckleweed+park%2C+San+Ra fael%2C+Ca (accessed February 20, 2026).

LSA
2/20/26 (P:\2025\20252331 BKF Canal ATE\PRODUCTS\CEQA Exemption\Canal_ATE_CEQA_Exemption_Memo_v5.docx) 25 The potential to uncover human remains exists at locations throughout the Bay Area. Due to the existing urban nature of the area, it is not expected that the project would unearth artifacts or resources during project construction. However, if human remains are encountered during construction activities, the regulatory process outlined in Health and Safety Code Section7050.5 must be followed, which involves coordination with the Native American Heritage Commission and a Native American Most Likely Descendant. Adherence to this code and PRC Section 097.98, which addresses the treatment of Native American human remains, means that the proposed project would not knowingly disturb human remains but would appropriately address any human remains should any be encountered during project work.

With compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, no substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource would occur from the proposed project; therefore, the exception under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2(f) does not apply to the proposed project.

SUMMARY
On the basis of the evidence provided above, the project is eligible for a Statutory Exemption in accordance with Public Resources Code Section 21080.25 and a Class 1 Categorical Exemption in accordance with Sections 15301, Existing Facilities, of the State CEQA Guidelines. Because the proposed project meets the criteria for the Statutory Exemption identified in Public Resources Code Section 21080.25 and for a Categorical Exemption under Section 15301 of the State CEQA Guidelines, it would not have a significant effect on the environment. Therefore, this analysis finds that a Notice of Exemption may be prepared for the project.

LSA
1 April Miller
From: Richard Peterson
Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 8:33 AM
To: Mayor Kate; Maika Llorens Gulati; Eli Hill; Maribeth Bushey; Rachel Kertz; Distrib- City Clerk; Paul Navazio; April Miller; Craig Veramay; Greg Minor; Grey Melgard; publicart; [email protected]; Kristie Hubacker; [email protected] Subject: Supporting the Story, Questioning the Location Dear Fellow Residents of San Rafael,
Our names are Richard and Anna Peterson and we are homeowners who deeply value Starkweather Path for something increasingly rare in our region: unobstructed, open views of the Bay and surrounding marshland.

We want to be clear that we support the intent and artistic vision of the People of the Canal project and the goal of honoring Miwok history. Our concern is not with the story being told, but with the proposed location along Starkweather Path. We believe there are more appropriate venues where this important history can be shared without permanently altering the character of Starkweather Path.

Starkweather Path is cherished precisely because it remains a quiet, natural corridor. It is a place to connect with the Bay, observe wildlife, and enjoy uninterrupted views. The installation of 22 placards and a large sculpture would fundamentally change this experience, shifting the path from a nature refuge to an outdoor gallery. In addition, it appears that the proposed location includes frontage along the dirt path between Baypoint Lagoons and Target. All in all, it appears that this is a considerable hike for school children, the elderly and the disabled. Moreover, the dirt path becomes a sea of mud puddles during the rainy season.

We respectfully encourage the city to consider alternative locations that could honor the same history while preserving what makes Starkweather Path special, such as:

Placing the installation on the curved “inland” path in front of Target • Placing the installation at end of the Bay Trail (beach near the Gun & Rod Club to picnic area by Target) • Integrating the exhibit within the Pickleweed Community Center campus • Placing exhibit at History Museum in San Rafael
• Placing the installation at Olompali State Park
These locations would allow the story to be shared in settings that are more accessible, appropriate for gathering and reflection, and better supported by nearby parking and all while protecting the unique and peaceful nature of Starkweather Path.

We respectfully ask that the city reject the proposal in its current location and stand with the residents who are most directly impacted by this decision. Thank you for your time, thoughtful consideration, and openness to community input.

Sincerely,
Richard Peterson
Anna Peterson
2 San Rafael
1 April Miller
From: Debbie
Sent: Monday, February 23, 2026 1:23 PM
To: Mayor Kate; Maika Llorens Gulati; Eli Hill; Maribeth Bushey; Rachel Kertz; Distrib- City Clerk; Paul Navazio; April Miller; Craig Veramay; Greg Minor; Grey Melgard Subject: Supporting the Story, Questioning the Location Dear City of San Rafael leaders:

My name is Debbie Alstad and I am a reaident who deeply values Starkweather Path for something increasingly rare in our region: unobstructed, open views of the Bay and surrounding marshland.

I want to be clear that I support the intent and arƟsƟc vision of the People of the Canal project and the goal of honoring Miwok history. My concern is not with the story being told, but with the proposed locaƟon along Starkweather Path. I believe there are more appropriate venues where this important history can be shared without permanently altering the character of Starkweather Path.

I respecƞully encourage the city to consider alternaƟve locaƟons that could honor the same history while preserving what makes Starkweather Path special, such as:
• Placing the installaƟon at end of the Bay Trail (beach near the Gun & Rod Club to picnic area by Target) • IntegraƟng the exhibit within the Pickleweed Community Center campus • Placing exhibit at History Museum in San Rafael • Placing the installaƟon at Olompali State Park
These locaƟons would allow the story to be shared in seƫngs that are more accessible, appropriate for gathering and reflecƟon, and beƩer supported by nearby parking and all while protecƟng the unique and peaceful nature of Starkweather Path.

I respecƞully ask that the city reject the proposal in its current locaƟon and stand with the residents who are most directly impacted by this decision. Thank you for your Ɵme, thoughƞul consideraƟon, and openness to community input.

Sincerely,
Debbie Alstad
1 April Miller
From: GIOGLIO Levine
Sent: Saturday, February 21, 2026 7:44 PM
To: Craig Veramay
Cc: GIOGLIO Levine; Mayor Kate; Eli
Hill; Maribeth Bushey; Rachel Kertz; Paul Navazio; April Miller; Greg Minor; Grey Melgard; Lindsay Lara; publicart; Maika Llorens Gulati
Subject: Starkweather Path Projects
Attachments: Dirt path.JPG; Starweather Path.jpeg; Pedestrian count.jpeg Hi Craig,

On February 20, my neighbor Anita Casalina forwarded your response regarding her concerns about the environmental impacts of two proposed projects affecting Starkweather Path. She asked that I reply on her behalf.

The two projects Baypoint and Spinnaker communities are opposing are:
 The Peoples of the Canal Art proposal to place nine (9) permanent art installations directly along the Starkweather Path; and
 The Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancement (Canal ATE) Lighting Project, which we understand is being managed by Grey Melgard.

Installing nighttime lighting along a path that is legally closed at sunset is difficult to justify. Lighting would invite after-hours use and potentially increase noise, vandalism, trespassing, and safety concerns for nearby residents.

With respect to the art proposal, the city continues to emphasize that it is not the lead agency, only overseeing regulatory requirements. However, the City’s involvement to date reflects meaningful participation in advancing the project. As you noted in your response to Anita, City staff walked the Starkweather Path with representatives from The Canal Arts in January 2026 and recommended modifications to sign placement to align with planning, environmental, and regulatory requirements.

That level of engagement demonstrates significant influence, regardless of formal designation.

Additionally, the Mayor publicly expressed support for the project in mid-2025 by participating in the PBS segment Peoples of the Canal – A Story of 20,000 Years, filmed along Starkweather Path.

Meanwhile, our two communities only became aware of the proposal by chance after a Baypoint resident attended an August 2025 Pickleweed Advisory Council meeting.

Reducing the initial number of art installations from twenty-two to nine does not resolve the central issue: the suitability of Starkweather Path itself. This is a narrow levee trail with existing congestion, environmental sensitivity, and infrastructure considerations. Despite sustained opposition from residents, the city is still supporting nine permanent structures per your revised proposed art sign locations map.

In addition, the Peoples of the Canal Art project application submitted and approved by the BCDC anticipated increased use of approximately 300–400 additional pedestrians and 50–80 bicyclists. (see Peoples of the Canal Project Description). Adding permanent installations while projecting increased 2 traffic on a gravel levee trail raises legitimate safety concerns. I have attached photographs illustrating current congestion—dogs off-leash, joggers, cyclists, families with stroller as well as the uneven and unpaved Fred Grange owned section of the Trail path.

There are also practical concerns. The project is described as an educational resource for children, yet it would require a roughly four-mile round trip along mixed-use, partially unpaved terrain. That expectation appears unrealistic and potentially unsafe.

Our concern is not with the intent of the art project. It is with the chosen location. We continue to believe there are more appropriate alternatives, including grouping all twenty-two installations together at one end of the Bay Trail (from the beach near the Gun & Rod Club to the picnic area near Target) or integrating the exhibit within the Pickleweed Community Center campus.

You indicated that TCA is refining its proposal and that the City’s review process is “on hold.” Is the art proposal still scheduled to go before PARB on April 15, or is that timeline also paused? We would appreciate your clarification.

From our perspective, we are late in the process due to insufficient early engagement with directly impacted residents. We are asking the city to reassess the suitability of any portion of Starkweather Path for both projects, and consider relocation to sites that better balance educational goals with safety, environmental stewardship, and neighborhood impact.

Stuart Dubey and I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you at your earliest convenience— either in person or via Zoom—to engage in a constructive and collaborative dialogue with the city.

Looking forward to hearing back from you.

Sincerely,

Susan Levine
Baypoint Lagoons

1 April Miller
From: BONNIE SMOLEN
Sent: Saturday, February 21, 2026 1:58 PM
To: Mayor Kate; Eli Hill; Maribeth Bushey; Rachel Kertz; Distrib- City Clerk; Paul Navazio; April Miller; Craig Veramay; Greg Minor; Grey Melgard; Maika Llorens Gulati Subject: Preserving Open Views Along Starkweather Path

Dear SR City Officials,
I'm a 30 year resident of Baypoint Lagoons, who treasures Starkweather Path for something increasingly rare in our region: unobstructed, open views of the Bay and marshland.

I'm writing to express concern about the proposed installation of 22 permanent placards and a large steel sculpture along this 2-mile corridor. While I respect the artistic and cultural intent behind the "Peoples of the Canal" project, I believe this proposal would fundamentally change the character of this natural bay trail.

What makes Starkweather Path special is precisely its openness: the long sightlines, the uncluttered horizon, the sense of peace that comes from being surrounded by nature rather than infrastructure.

Installing signage every 0.1 miles would transform a contemplative nature walk into something closer to an outdoor exhibit hall. Placing lighting along a path that is closed at sunset makes no sense.

Over 132 square feet of permanent signage and lighting poles is not a subtle addition. It's a fundamental change to the visual experience of this space. Public signage is vulnerable to graffiti, corrosion, and weather damage, with no clearly defined, funded plan for ongoing upkeep of 22 separate installations and lighting maintenance..

I respectfully request that the city reject both proposals in their current form and stand with the residents who are directly impacted by these decisions.

Sincerely,
Bonnie Smolen
1 April Miller
From: Karla Rasmussen
Sent: Saturday, February 21, 2026 12:13 PM
To: Mayor Kate; [email protected]; Eli Hill; Maribeth Bushey; Rachel Kertz; DistribCity Clerk; Paul Navazio; April Miller; Craig Veramay; Greg Minor; Grey Melgard Subject: Supporting the Story, Questioning the Location Dear Kate Colin
My name Karla Rasmussen, and I am a resident who deeply values Stark-weather Path for something increasingly rare in our region: unobstructed, open views of the Bay and surrounding marshland.

I want to be clear that I support the intent and artistic vision of the People of the Canal project and the goal of honoring Miwok history. My concern is not with the story being told, but with the proposed location along Starkweather Path. I believe there are more appropriate venues where this important history can be shared without permanently altering the character of Starkweather Path.

I respectfully encourage the city to consider alternative locations that could honor the same history while preserving what makes Starkweather Path special, such as:
• Placing the installation at end of the Bay Trail (beach near the Gun & Rod Club to picnic area by Target) • Integrating the exhibit within the Pickleweed Community Center campus • Placing exhibit at History Museum in San Rafael
• Placing the installation at Olompali State Park
These locations would allow the story to be shared in settings that are more accessible, appropriate for gathering and reflection, and better supported by nearby parking and all while protecting the unique and peaceful nature of Starkweather Path.

I respectfully ask that the city reject the proposal in its current location and stand with the residents who are most directly impacted by this decision. Thank you for your time, thoughtful consideration, and openness to community input.

Sincerely,
Karla
Karla Rasmussen
[email protected]
1 April Miller
From: Karla Rasmussen
Sent: Saturday, February 21, 2026 11:14 AM
To: Mayor Kate; [email protected]; Eli Hill; Maribeth Bushey; Rachel Kertz; DistribCity Clerk; Paul Navazio; April Miller; Craig Veramay; Greg Minor; Grey Melgard Subject: Concerns About Environmental Impact on Starkweather Path Dear [Official Name],
My name is Karla Rasmussen, and I'm a resident of Baypoint neighborhood. I'm writing to express serious concerns about the environmental impact of the proposed "Peoples of the Canal" art installation and trail lighting projects on the Starkweather Path - Bay Trail.

Starkweather Path runs directly adjacent to sensitive salt marsh habitat, one of the Bay Area's most fragile ecosystems. The proposal to install 22 permanent placards, a large steel sculpture, and artificial lighting would:
• Disturb nesting shorebirds and migratory species that depend on this corridor • Introduce artificial light into a naturally dark environment, disrupting nocturnal wildlife and natural circadian rhythms
• Proposal to increase foot traffic on a shared use path with constrained widths leading to pedestrian safety issues
I understand and appreciate the value of public art and cultural storytelling. However, I believe this particular location, a nature corridor with documented wildlife sensitivity, is not the appropriate setting for permanent infrastructures of this scale.

I respectfully request that the city reject both proposals in their current form and stand with the residents who are directly impacted by these decisions.

Sincerely,
Karla Rasmussen
San Rafael
Karla Rasmussen
1 April Miller
From: Anton Schneider
Sent: Saturday, February 21, 2026 8:45 AM
To: Mayor Kate; [email protected]; Eli Hill; Maribeth Bushey; Rachel Kertz; DistribCity Clerk; Paul Navazio; April Miller; Craig Veramay; Greg Minor; Grey Melgard; publicart; [email protected]; Kristie Hubacker;
[email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; Cameron Macdonald; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns About Environmental Impact on Starkweather Path Dear neighbors,
We recently purchased a home in the Baypoint lagoons/Spinnaker neighborhood. The reason that we came here is because of the gorgeous views along the bayfront, and the natural path along the bay. We have been shocked by news that our elected officials, contractors and representatives are about to impact the beauty of this natural environment in a negative way. I'm writing to express my serious concerns about the environmental impact and safety implications of the proposed "Peoples of the Canal" art installation and trail lighting projects on the Starkweather Path - Bay Trail.

I respectfully request that the city reject both proposals in their current form and stand with the residents who are directly impacted by these decisions.

Sincerely,
Anton Schneider
1 April Miller
From: PAULA HAMMONS
Sent: Friday, February 20, 2026 6:12 PM
To: Mayor Kate; [email protected]; Eli Hill; Maribeth Bushey; Rachel Kertz; DistribCity Clerk; Paul Navazio; April Miller; Craig Veramay; Greg Minor; Grey Melgard; publicart; [email protected]; Kristie Hubacker;
[email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; Cameron Macdonald; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Supporting the Story, Questioning the Location Dear concerned official,
My name is Paula Hammons and I am a long Ɵme resident of Baypoint Lagoons who deeply values Starkweather Path for something increasingly rare in our region: unobstructed, open views of the Bay and surrounding marshland and a peaceful, much needed respite from the constructed environment I want to be clear that I support the intent and arƟsƟc vision of the People of the Canal project and the goal of honoring Miwok history. My concern is not with the story being told, but with the proposed locaƟon along Starkweather Path. I believe there are more appropriate venues where this important history can be shared without permanently altering the character of Starkweather Path.

Sincerely,
Paula Hammons
1 April Miller
From: Anita Casalina
Sent: Friday, February 20, 2026 1:03 PM
To: Mayor Kate; [email protected]; Eli Hill; Maribeth Bushey; Rachel Kertz; DistribCity Clerk; Paul Navazio; April Miller; Craig Veramay; Greg Minor; Grey Melgard Subject: Concerns About Environmental Impact on Starkweather Path Dear [Official Name],
My name is Anita Casalina, and I'm a resident of the Baypoint / Spinnaker neighborhood. I'm wriƟng to express serious concerns about the environmental impact of the proposed "Peoples of the Canal" art installaƟon and trail lighƟng projects on the Starkweather Path - Bay Trail.

Starkweather Path runs directly adjacent to sensiƟve salt marsh habitat, one of the Bay Area's most fragile ecosystems.

The proposal to install 22 permanent placards, a large steel sculpture, and arƟficial lighƟng would:
• Disturb nesƟng shorebirds and migratory species that depend on this corridor • Introduce arƟficial light into a naturally dark environment, disrupƟng nocturnal wildlife and natural circadian rhythms • Proposal to increase foot traffic on a shared use path with constrained widths leading to pedestrian safety issues I understand and appreciate the value of public art and cultural storytelling. However, I believe this parƟcular locaƟon, a nature corridor with documented wildlife sensiƟvity, is not the appropriate seƫng for permanent infrastructures of this scale.

I respecƞully request that the city reject both proposals in their current form and stand with the residents who are directly impacted by these decisions.

Sincerely,
Anita Casalina
San Rafael, CA 94901
1 April Miller
From: Richard Peterson
Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 9:50 AM
To: Mayor Kate; Maika Llorens Gulati; Eli Hill; Maribeth Bushey; Rachel Kertz; Distrib- City Clerk; Paul Navazio; April Miller; Craig Veramay; Greg Minor; Grey Melgard; publicart; [email protected]; Kristie Hubacker; [email protected] Subject: Safety Concerns Regarding Structures on Starkweather Path Levee Dear Fellow San Rafael Residents,
Our names are Richard and Anna Peterson, and we live in Spinnaker Point, adjacent to Starkweather Path. We are writing to raise practical safety concerns about the proposed permanent art and lighting installations on this corridor.

Starkweather Path sits atop a flood-control levee that protects over 400 homes in our community. Adding 22 permanent placards, a large steel sculpture, and lighting infrastructure raises important issues:
• No separation between pedestrians and high-speed e-bikes forcing walkers off the path and onto the gravel which is where the 22 installations would be anchored • Unresolved on-going maintenance responsibilities due to vandalism, weather and salt air not addressed
• Expecting children to walk 4 miles roundtrip to view the installations is unrealistic and exposes them to injury by bikes, scooters and e-bikes and impractical for them to walk on the unpaved portion between Target and Starkweather. Furthermore, during the rainy season this unpaved portion is often littered with puddles.
• Installing installations on the gravel uneven surface is not ADA compliant which poses another safety threat to pedestrians
• The levee is to protect 400 homes and not be used for permanent art installations which would impede emergency response efforts
• Lighting would invite after-hours use, increasing noise, safety concerns, and trespassing for nearby residents considering that the path is closed at sunset; City employees have indicated that the current hours would be extended to after dark, so why install lighting? We support thoughtful improvements to our community, but we believe these issues deserve to be heard and addressed by the city before any commitment is made to permanently change Starkweather's critical infrastructure.

We respectfully request that the city reject both proposals in their current form and stand with the residents who are directly impacted by these decisions.

Sincerely,
Richard and Anna Peterson
1 April Miller
From: Sutherland, Sexton
Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 1:21 PM
To: Mayor Kate; Maika Llorens Gulati; Eli Hill; Maribeth Bushey; Rachel Kertz; Distrib- City Clerk; Paul Navazio; April Miller; Craig Veramay; Greg Minor; Grey Melgard; publicart; [email protected]; Kristie Hubacker; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; Community Development; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; Cameron Macdonald; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Preserving Open Views Along Starkweather Path
Dear anyone connected to the project on the Starkweather, I'm Sexton Sutherland, a resident of SPINNAKER, who treasures Starkweather Path for something increasingly rare in our region: unobstructed, open views of the Bay and marshland.

I’m very much opposed to the desecraƟon of the path with signs and lights. It is one of the very few areas where one can go to enjoy the sƟllness and quiet of nature without being encroached upon by City signs and light. The value of silence in nature is important for both well-being, the soul, and good mental health. I have enjoyed my walks on the path for 13 years. I am both horrified and saddened that this might be taken away from me with the introducƟon of more “ civilizaƟon” around this rare oasis of nature.

It also would bring more cars onto the street of SPINNAKER, which has been having an issue with the city ever since I have come here about too much crowded parking with no remediaƟon. This just means an added burden of parking.

And finally, I am concerned that aŌer the first years of its implementaƟon, there will be ongoing, graffiƟ and liƩering, which is even a problem now without the financial upkeep that the city does not even do it at this point.

I also agree with all of the issues of the template that was provided below.

I'm wriƟng to express concern about the proposed installaƟon of 22 permanent placards and a large steel sculpture along this 2-mile corridor. While I respect the arƟsƟc and cultural intent behind the "Peoples of the Canal" project, I believe this proposal would fundamentally change the character of this natural bay trail.

What makes Starkweather Path special is precisely its openness: the long sightlines, the uncluƩered horizon, the sense of peace that comes from being surrounded by nature rather than infrastructure. Installing signage every 0.1 miles would transform a contemplaƟve nature walk into something closer to an outdoor exhibit hall. Placing lighƟng along a path that is closed at sunset makes no sense.

Over 132 square feet of permanent signage and lighƟng poles is not a subtle addiƟon. It's a fundamental change to the visual experience of this space. Public signage is vulnerable to graffiƟ, corrosion, and weather damage, with no clearly defined, funded plan for ongoing upkeep of 22 separate installaƟons.

I'm not opposed to public art or community storytelling. But I believe a project of this scale and permanence deserves a more inclusive process, one that genuinely incorporates feedback from the people who use and care for this space every day and love the path as it is.
2 I respecƞully request that the city reject both proposals in their current form and stand with the residents who are directly impacted by these decisions.

Sincerely,
Sexton Sutherland
San Rafael CA 94901
1 April Miller
From: Sutherland, Sexton
Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 1:05 PM
To: Mayor Kate; Maika Llorens Gulati; Eli Hill; Maribeth Bushey; Rachel Kertz; Distrib- City Clerk; Paul Navazio; April Miller; Craig Veramay; Greg Minor; Grey Melgard Subject: Preserving Open Views Along Starkweather Path
Dear
I'm [Your Name], a [resident/visitor] who treasures Starkweather Path for something increasingly rare in our region:
unobstructed, open views of the Bay and marshland.

I respecƞully request that the city reject both proposals in their current form and stand with the residents who are directly impacted by these decisions.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
From: ANANDI MATTESON
Sent: Sunday, February 22, 2026 6:07 PM
To: Mayor Kate <[email protected]>; Maika Llorens Gulati <[email protected]>; Eli Hill <[email protected]>; Maribeth Bushey <[email protected]>; Rachel Kertz <[email protected]>; Distrib- City Clerk <[email protected]>; Paul Navazio <[email protected]>; April Miller <[email protected]>; Craig Veramay <[email protected]>; Greg Minor <[email protected]>; Grey Melgard <[email protected]> Subject: Subject: Preserving Open Views Along Starkweather Path Hello,
I'm Anandi Matteson, a resident of the Baypoint Lagoons Association who treasures Starkweather Path for something increasingly rare in our region: unobstructed, open views of the Bay and marshland.

What makes Starkweather Path special is precisely its openness: the long sightlines, the uncluttered horizon, the sense of peace that comes from being surrounded by nature rather than infrastructure. Installing signage every 0.1 miles would transform a contemplative nature walk into something closer to an outdoor exhibit hall. Placing lighting along a path that is closed at sunset makes no sense.

I respectfully request that the city reject both proposals in their current form and stand with the residents who are directly impacted by these decisions.

Sincerely,
Anandi Matteson
San Rafael, CA 94901
From: ANANDI MATTESON
Sent: Sunday, February 22, 2026 6:10 PM
To: Mayor Kate <[email protected]>; Maika Llorens Gulati <[email protected]>; Eli Hill <[email protected]>; Maribeth Bushey <[email protected]>; Rachel Kertz <[email protected]>; Distrib- City Clerk <[email protected]>; Paul Navazio <[email protected]>; April Miller <[email protected]>; Craig Veramay <[email protected]>; Greg Minor <[email protected]>; Grey Melgard <[email protected]> Subject: Subject: Safety Concerns Regarding Structures on Starkweather Path Levee Hi,
My name is Anandi Matteson and I live in Baypoint Lagoons Association, near Starkweather Path.

I'm writing to raise practical safety concerns about the proposed permanent installations on this corridor.

Starkweather Path sits atop a flood-control levee that protects over 400 homes in our community.

Adding 22 permanent placards, a large steel sculpture, and lighting infrastructure raises important issues:
• No separation between pedestrians and high-speed e-bikes forcing walkers off the path and onto the gravel which is where the 22 installations would be anchored • Unresolved on-going maintenance responsibilities due to vandalism, weather and salt air not addressed
• Expecting children to walk 4 miles roundtrip to view the installations is unrealistic and exposes them to injury by bikes, scooters and e-bikes and impractical for them to walk on the unpaved portion between Target and Starkweather
• Installing installations on the gravel uneven surface is not ADA compliant which poses another safety threat to pedestrians
• The levee is to protect 400 homes and not be used for permanent art installations which would impede emergency response efforts
• Lighting would invite after-hours use, increasing noise, safety concerns, and trespassing for nearby residents considering that the path is closed at sunset I support thoughtful improvements to our community, but I believe these issues deserve to be heard and addressed by the city before any commitment is made to permanently change Starkweather's critical infrastructure.

I respectfully request that the city reject both proposals in their current form and stand with the residents who are directly impacted by these decisions.

Sincerely,
Anandi Matteson
San Rafael, CA
-----Original Message-----
From: Claire Parker
Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2026 8:22 PM
To: Mayor Kate <[email protected]>; [email protected]; Eli Hill <[email protected]>; Maribeth Bushey <[email protected]>; Rachel Kertz <[email protected]>; Distrib- City Clerk <[email protected]>; Paul Navazio <[email protected]>; April Miller <[email protected]>; Craig Veramay <[email protected]>; Greg Minor <[email protected]>; Grey Melgard <[email protected]>
Subject: Concerns About Environmental Impact on Starkweather Path To whom it may concern,
My name is Claire Parker, and I'm a resident of the Baypoint / Spinnaker neighborhood. I'm writing to express serious concerns about the environmental impact of the proposed "Peoples of the Canal" art installation and trail lighting projects on the Starkweather Path - Bay Trail.

Starkweather Path runs directly adjacent to sensitive salt marsh habitat, one of the Bay Area's most fragile ecosystems. The proposal to install 22 permanent placards, a large steel sculpture, and artificial lighting would:
• Disturb nesting shorebirds and migratory species that depend on this corridor • Introduce artificial light into a naturally dark environment, disrupting nocturnal wildlife and natural circadian rhythms • Proposal to increase foot traffic on a shared use path with constrained widths leading to pedestrian safety issues
I understand and appreciate the value of public art and cultural storytelling. However, I believe this particular location, a nature corridor with documented wildlife sensitivity, is not the appropriate setting for permanent infrastructures of this scale.

I respectfully request that the city reject both proposals in their current form and stand with the residents who are directly impacted by these decisions.

Sincerely,
Claire Parker
-----Original Message-----
From: Sheri Belloni
Sent: Monday, February 23, 2026 4:30 PM
To: Mayor Kate <[email protected]>; Maika Llorens Gulati <[email protected]>; Eli Hill <[email protected]>; Maribeth Bushey <[email protected]>; Rachel Kertz <[email protected]>; Distrib- City Clerk <[email protected]>; Paul Navazio <[email protected]>; April Miller <[email protected]>; Craig Veramay <[email protected]>; Greg Minor <[email protected]>; Grey Melgard <[email protected]> Subject: Concerns About Environmental Impact on Starkweather Path Dear Mayor Collin, et.al.,
My name is Cheryl Belloni. I'm a resident of Spinnaker Point, and Starkweather Park Path is literally my backyard. I'm writing to express serious concerns concerning the environmental impact of the proposed "Peoples of the Canal" art installation and trail lighting projects on the Starkweather Path - Bay Trail.

Aside from being directly behind my home, Starkweather Path runs directly adjacent to sensitive salt marsh habitat, one of the Bay Area's most fragile ecosystems. The proposal to install 22 permanent placards, a large steel sculpture, and artificial lighting is quite absurd. Besides being an eyesore to the residents along the Path, these projects will:
• Disturb nesting shorebirds and migratory species that depend on this corridor • Introduce artificial light into a naturally dark environment, disrupting nocturnal wildlife and natural circadian rhythms • Proposal to increase foot traffic on a shared use path with constrained widths leading to pedestrian safety issues
I understand and appreciate the value of public art and cultural storytelling. However, I believe this particular location, a nature corridor with documented wildlife sensitivity, and directly adjacent to homes in Spinnaker and Baypoint, is not the appropriate setting for permanent infrastructures of this scale.

I respectfully request that the city reject both proposals in their current form and stand with the residents who are directly impacted by these decisions.

Sincerely,
Cheryl Belloni
Sheri Belloni
-----Original Message-----
From: Stuart Dubey
Sent: Monday, February 23, 2026 10:42 AM
To: Mayor Kate <[email protected]>; Maika Llorens Gulati <[email protected]>; Eli Hill <[email protected]>; Maribeth Bushey <[email protected]>; Rachel Kertz <[email protected]>; Distrib- City Clerk <[email protected]>; Paul Navazio <[email protected]>; April Miller <[email protected]>; Craig Veramay <[email protected]>; Greg Minor <[email protected]>; Grey Melgard <[email protected]>; publicart <[email protected]>; [email protected]; Kristie Hubacker <[email protected]>; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Preserving Open Views Along Starkweather Path
Dear San Rafael City officials and project stakeholders, My name is Stuart Dubey and I’m a 28 year Baypoint Resident who treasures Starkweather Path's unobstructed, open views of the Bay and marshland.

I'm writing to express concern about the proposed installation of 22 permanent placards (and a large steel sculpture as already approved by the BCDC) along this 2-mile corridor. While I respect the artistic and cultural intent behind the "Peoples of the Canal" project, I believe this proposal would fundamentally change the character of this natural bay trail.

What makes Starkweather Path special is precisely its openness: the long sightlines, the uncluttered horizon, the sense of peace that comes from being surrounded by nature rather than infrastructure.

Installing signage every 0.1 miles would transform a contemplative nature walk into something closer to an outdoor exhibit hall. Placing lighting along a path that is closed at sunset makes no sense.

I respectfully request that the city reject both proposals in their current form and stand with the residents who are directly impacted by these decisions.

Sincerely,
Stuart Dubey
San Rafael

San Rafael City CouncilMarch 2, 2026

San Rafael City Council
March 2, 2026