Agenda packet — Santa Cruz City Council, August 25, 2026

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Regular Meeting - August 25, 2026
Council Chambers
809 Center Street
Santa Cruz
Councilmember O’Hara will be participating remotely from the location listed below. In accordance with the Brown Act, the agenda was posted at this location no less than 72-hours before the meeting.
201 Main Street
Green Bay, WI, 54301
1:00 P.M. CLOSED SESSION
1:30 P.M. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, CONSENT, GENERAL BUSINESS Council meetings are hybrid, and may be viewed remotely, using any of the following sources:
 Click on Zoom link (no time delay): https://zoom.us/j/94684401344  Online at http://www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-council/council-meetings  Online at Watch – Community Television of Santa Cruz County  Comcast Channel 25
Or: Call any of the numbers below. If one is busy, try the next one.  1-833-548-0276 (Toll Free)
 1-833-548-0282 (Toll Free)
 1-877-853-5247 (Toll Free)
 1-669-900-9128
 Enter the meeting ID number: 946 8440 1344
 When prompted for a Participant ID, press #.
 Press *9 on your phone to “raise your hand” when the Mayor calls for public comment.  It will be your turn to speak when the Mayor calls on you. Press *6 to unmute yourself. The timer will then be set.

Correspondence to be included in the agenda packet must be received by 5:00 pm on Monday, August 24th
August 25, 2026 City Council 2
PLEASE NOTE:
 Council may take a break(s) as needed.
 Requests for extra speaking time on items other than Oral Communications must be made by 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 23rd by emailing the Mayor and the City Clerk.

Approval will be confirmed via email.
[email protected] [email protected]
The City of Santa Cruz does not discriminate against persons with disabilities. Out of consideration for people with chemical sensitivities we ask that you attend fragrance free. Upon request, the agenda can be provided in a format to accommodate special needs. Additionally, if you wish to attend this public meeting and will require assistance such as an interpreter for American Sign Language, Spanish, or other special equipment, please call the City Clerk’s Department at 420-5030 at least five days in advance so that we can arrange for such special assistance, or email [email protected]. The Cal-Relay system number: 1-800-735-2922.

Si desea asistir a esta reunión pública y necesita ayuda - como un intérprete de lenguaje de señas americano, español u otro equipo especial - favor de llamar al Departamento de la Secretaría de la Ciudad al 420-5030 al menos cinco días antes para que podamos coordinar dicha asistencia especial o envié un correo electrónico a [email protected]. El número del sistema Cal-Relay es: 1-800-735-2922.

Agenda and Agenda Packet Materials: The City Council agenda and the complete agenda packet containing public records, which are not exempt from disclosure pursuant to the California Public Records Act, are available for review on the City’s website: www.santacruzca.gov/councilmeetings and at the Office of the City Clerk located at 809 Center Street, Room 8, Santa Cruz, California, during normal business hours.

Agenda Materials Submitted after Publication of the Agenda Packet: Pursuant to Government Code §54957.5, public records related to an open session agenda item submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available at the same time they are distributed or made available to the legislative body on the City’s website at: www.santacruzca.gov/councilmeetings and are also available for public inspection at the Office of the City Clerk, 809 Center Street Room 8, Santa Cruz, California, during normal business hours, and at the Council meeting.

Need more information? Contact the City Clerk’s office at 831-420-5030. 1:00 PM
Statements of Disqualification
Public Comment on Closed Session Items
Closed Session

1. Conference With Legal Counsel – Liability Claims (Government Code §54956.95)
1) Claimant: Phoebe Ann Kelley
2) Claimant: John Balquist as Trustee of the Anthony J. Koci Trust 3) Claimant: Mary Sierra
4) Claimant: Maria Gabriela Martin
5) Claimant: Marianne Roberts
Claims against the City of Santa Cruz
August 25, 2026 City Council 3
Closed Session (continued)

2. Real Property Negotiations (Government Code §54956.8) Property: 121 Soquel Avenue (Frazier Lewis Lane, portion) and 1316- 1320 Pacific Avenue
APNs: 005-081-51, 005-081-20, and 005-081-21
Owner: City of Santa Cruz and Doghouse2 LLC
City Negotiator: Bonnie Lipscomb
Negotiating Parties: Bonnie Lipscomb and Danco Communities Under Negotiation: Price, terms of payment, or both
August 25, 2026 City Council 4
City Council
1:30 PM
Call to Order
Roll Call
Oral Communications - Members of the public may address Council on matters not on the agenda, but within the jurisdiction of the Council. 30 minutes is allocated for Oral Communications. No extra time for groups will be granted.

Presentations

3. Employee 30-year Service Pin - Joel Braga

4. Mayoral Proclamation: Marine Safety Professionals Recognition Day Presiding Officer's Announcements
Statements of Disqualification
Additions and Deletions
City Attorney Report on Closed Session
Council Meeting Calendar

5. The City Council will review the meeting calendar attached to the agenda and revise it as necessary.

August 25, 2026 City Council 5
Consent Agenda

6. Minutes of the August 11, 2026 City Council Meeting (CC) LOCATION: None
Motion to approve as submitted.

7. Fire Station 63 Butler Building Construction (FD)
LOCATION: District 6
Motion to:
1) Adopt a resolution approving the design, plans, and specifications for the Fire Station 63 Butler Building prepared by William C. Kempf Architects;
2) Adopt a resolution amending the FY 2027 budget to transfer $111,771 from the Public Safety Impact Fee Fund 217 to the General Capital Investment Program Fund 311 to complete construction of a Butler Building at Fire Station 63 for the Santa Cruz Fire Department and appropriate funds to project c212306;
3) Authorize the City to enter into a contract, in a form to be approved by the City Attorney, for approximately $177,001 with American Project Solutions for the construction of the Fire Station 63 Butler Building; and
4) Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to execute change orders within the approved project budget.

8. Liability Claims Filed Against the City of Santa Cruz (FN) Motion to reject the liability claims of 1) Phoebe Ann Kelley, 2) John Balquist as Trustee of the Anthony J. Koci Trust, 3) Mary Sierra, 4) Maria Gabriela Martin, and 5) Marianne Roberts, based on staff recommendation.

August 25, 2026 City Council 6
Consent Agenda (continued)

9. Resource Recovery Facility Caterpillar 826K Compactor Rebuild (PW) LOCATION: Citywide
Motion to enter into a contract in the amount of $488,854.35 with Peterson Tractor Company (San Leandro, CA) to rebuild the Caterpillar 826K compactor, the current landfill compactor tractor.

10. Safe Streets and Roads for All - Grant Application (PW) LOCATION: Citywide
Motion to:
1) Apply for, and if awarded, accept and appropriate funds from the Federal Department of Transportation Safe Streets and Roads for All Fiscal Year 2026 funding program for the Improving Post-Crash Care Through EMS Innovation and Signal Preemption Project; and 2) Find that the Council’s action is exempt from CEQA under CEQA’s Common Sense Exemption (14 CCR 15061(b)(3)).

11. HSIP 11 and 12 – Unsignalized Crossing Improvement Project (c402517 and c402610) (PW) LOCATION: Districts 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 Motion to:
1) Adopt a resolution to approve the plans and specifications for the HSIP 11 and 12 – Unsignalized Crossing Improvement Project pursuant to Government Code Section 830.6;
2) Authorize staff to advertise for bids and award the contract. The City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to execute the contract in a form approved by the City Attorney, as authorized by Resolution No. NS-27,563. The Director of Public Works or City Engineer is authorized to execute change orders within the approved project budget; and
3) Find the improvements categorically exempt from CEQA under CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) and Section 15304 (Minor Alterations to Land).

End Consent Agenda
August 25, 2026 City Council 7
General Business

12. West Cliff Drive Path Realignment – Approve Plans and Specifications (m400819) (PW)
LOCATION: District 6
Motion to:
1) Adopt a resolution to approve the design, Plans and Specifications for the West Cliff Drive Path Realignment Project (m400819); 2) Authorize staff to advertise for bids and award the contract. The City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to execute the contract in a form approved by the City Attorney, and as authorized by Resolution No. NS-27,563. The Director of Public Works is authorized to execute change orders within the approved project budget; and 3) Adopt a CEQA finding of categorical exemption pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities), Section 15302 (Replacement or Reconstruction), and Section 15304 (Minor Alterations to Land).

13. Bay Drive Protected Bike Lanes and Pedestrian Path Project - Public Access Trail Easement Deed and Certificate of Acceptance (c402304) (PW)
LOCATION: Districts 3, 4, 5, and 6
Motion to:
1) Adopt a resolution to approve the design and plans for the Bay Street at Escalona Drive Pilot Plan, and direct staff to implement the approved pilot plan, which restricts through movements on Escalona Drive across Bay Street/Drive while maintaining the southbound left turn from Bay Street to eastbound Escalona Drive;
2) Confirm design approach for the future Complete Streets project to use mountable medians on Bay Street at Toledo Street and Anita Street; and
3) Adopt a resolution accepting a permanent public access trail easement for public use from Santa Cruz City Schools over a portion of real property (APN 004-441-24) required for the construction of the Bay Drive Protected Bike Lanes and Pedestrian Path Project and authorizing and directing the City Manager to execute the corresponding deed and Certificate of Acceptance.

August 25, 2026 City Council 8
Presentation

14. Biarritz Adult and Youth Delegation Report Back
Adjournment
August 25, 2026 City Council 9

INFORMATION ITEMS PREVIOUSLY DISTRIBUTED TO CITY COUNCILMEMBERS ADDENDUM TO CITY COUNCIL AGENDA – AUGUST 25, 2026

15. Public Works Department: May 26, 2026 Budget Hearing Response from Public Works 8/18/26 (PWFYI 0112)

MAYOR'S PROCLAMATIONS
ADDENDUM TO CITY COUNCIL AGENDA – AUGUST 25, 2026

16. Proclaiming August 11, 2026 as “Catherine Breed Day” and encouraging all citizens to join in congratulating her on her extraordinary achievements and her commitment to going beyond the black line by choosing a life guided by curiosity, courage, and connection—and creating pathways for others to do the same.

17. Proclaiming June 29, 2026 as “Oliver Tree Day” in recognition of his achievements and contributions to the arts.

Advisory Body Appointments
The following positions are either currently vacant or the terms are due to expire.

Council will make appointments at a future meeting.

Board of Building and Fire Appeals Two openings – at-large nominations County Library Advisory
Commission
One opening – at-large nomination
Downtown Commission Two openings – to be appointed by
Councilmembers Golder and O’Hara
Sister Cities Committee One opening – at-large nomination Transportation and Public Works
Commission
One opening – to be appointed by
Councilmember Trigueiro
August 25, 2026 City Council 10
Public Hearing
If, in the future, you wish to challenge in court any of the matters on this agenda for which a public hearing is to be conducted, you may be limited to raising only those issues which you (or someone else) raised orally at the public hearing or in written correspondence received by the City at or before the hearing.

Any person seeking to challenge a City Council decision made as a result of a proceeding in which, by law, a hearing is required to be given, evidence is required to be taken, and the discretion in the determination of facts is vested in the City Council, shall be required to commence that action either 60 days or 90 days following the date on which the decision becomes final as provided in Code of Civil Procedure Section 1094.6 Please refer to code of Civil Procedure 1094.6 to determine how to calculate when a decision becomes “final.” The 60-day rule applies to all public hearings conducted pursuant to the City’s Zoning Ordinance, Title 24, Santa Cruz Municipal Code. The 90-day rule applies to all other public hearings.
2026 City Council Meeting Calendar
September 7 - City Hall Closure - Labor Day
September 8 - Regular Meeting
September 11/12 - Rosh Hashanah (City observed - sundown to sundown) October 20/21 - Yom Kippur (City observed - sundown to sundown) September 22 - Regular Meeting
October 13 - Regular Meeting
October 27 - Regular Meeting
November 11 - City Hall Closure - Veteran's Day (observed) November 17 - Regular Meeting
November 26 - City Hall Closure - Thanksgiving Day
November 27 - City Hall Closure - Day After Thanksgiving Day December 4/5 - Hanukkah (City observed - sundown to sundown) December 8 - Regular Meeting
December 22 Meeting Cancelled
December 25

5.1 MINUTES ARE UNOFFICIAL UNTIL APPROVED BY COUNCIL
City of Santa Cruz
809 Center Street
Santa Cruz, California 95060

MINUTES OF A CITY COUNCIL MEETING
August 11, 2026
Closed Session
1:00 PM
Mayor Keeley opened the City Council Closed Session at 1:07 p.m. in a public meeting via Zoom and in Council Chambers, for the purpose of announcing the agenda, and receiving public testimony.

Roll Call

Present: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Newsome, Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

Absent: None.

Staff: City Attorney C. Bronson, Deputy City Manager/Director of Economic Development B. Lipscomb, Deputy City Clerk Administrator J. Wood, City Clerk Administrator B. Bush.

Statements of Disqualification – Councilmember Brunner announced she will be recusing herself from item 2 as it relates to her employment.

Public Comment on Closed Session Items
Mayor Keeley opened the public comment period at 1:07 p.m. There were no speakers. Mayor Keeley closed the public comment period at 1:08 p.m., at which time the meeting was closed to the public and Council adjourned to the Courtyard Conference Room.

6.1 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8319
Closed Session

1. Conference With Legal Counsel – Liability Claims (Government Code §54956.95) 1) Claimant: Mathew D. Sheldon
2) Claimant: Michael John Deuschel
3) Claimant: Juan Carlos Valencia
4) Claimant: Joshua S. Grant
5) Claimant: Nathan Escalante
6) Claimant: Jose Noel Hinojosa
Claims against the City of Santa Cruz
Council received a status report, took up under agenda item 15, and no reportable action was taken.

2. Real Property Negotiations (Government Code §54956.8) Property: 121 Soquel Avenue
APN: 005-081-51 (Portion)
Owner: Oswald, LLC dba Oswald
City Negotiator: Bonnie Lipscomb
Negotiating Parties: City of Santa Cruz and Damani Thomas Under Negotiation: Price, Terms of payment, or both
Council received a status report from the City Negotiator, and no reportable action was taken. Councilmember Brunner recused herself from this item.

3. Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation (Government Code §54956.9(d)(1))
1) James Morrissey v. City of Santa Cruz, et al.
(Santa Cruz County Superior Court Case No. 26CV01124)
2) California Grocers Association, et al. v. City of Santa Cruz, et al. (Sacramento County Superior Court Case No. 25WM000095)
Council received a status report, and no reportable action was taken.

6.2 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8320
City of Santa Cruz
809 Center Street
Santa Cruz, California 95060

MINUTES OF A CITY COUNCIL MEETING
August 11, 2026
2:00 PM
Call to Order – Mayor Keeley called the meeting to order at 2:25 p.m. in Council Chambers.

Roll Call

Present: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Newsome (left at 4:00 p.m.), Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

Absent: None.

Staff: Assistant City Manager M. Templeton, City Attorney C. Bronson, Deputy City Manager/Director of Economic Development B. Lipscomb, Director of Community Development L. Butler, Director of Finance E. Cabell (via Zoom), Chief of Fire R. Oatey (via Zoom), Chief People Officer S. De Leon, Director of Information Technology K. Morgan, Director of Parks and Recreation T. Elliot, Director of Public Works N. Nguyen, Director of Water H. Luckenbach, Administrative Assistant II C. Koscielak, SCADA Network and Systems Administrator B. Ashby, Sustainability and Resiliency Officer T. Wise-West, Senior Planner R. Bane, Deputy City Attorney A. Geise, Housing and Community Development Manager J. de Wit, Deputy City Clerk Administrator J. Wood, City Clerk Administrator B. Bush.

Presentations

4. SEIU AB 2561 Presentation
Administrative Assistant II C. Koscielak, on behalf of SEIU Local 521, gave a presentation and responded to Council questions.

5. Employee 25-year Service Pin - Brandon Ashby
Director of Information Technology K. Morgan spoke and presented a pin to SCADA Network and Systems Administrator B. Ashby.

6.3 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8321
Presentations (continued)

6. Update on Monterey Bay Green Youth Service Corps Fellow Projects Sustainability and Resiliency Officer T. Wise-West introduced the Youth Service Corps Fellows. Program Coordinators for Resilient Central Coast, Anna Michel, Anjelka Stipanovič, and Julia Alaimo, gave a presentation and responded to Council questions.

7. Mayoral Proclamation Declaring August 11, 2026 as Catherine Breed Day Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson read from and presented a proclamation declaring August 11, 2026 as Catherine Breed Day. Trent Hodges, Save the Waves Senior Manager, spoke.

8. Mayoral Proclamation Declaring June 29, 2026, as Oliver Tree Day Councilmember Brunner read from and presented a proclamation declaring June 29, 2026 as Oliver Tree Day. Oliver Tree’s parents spoke.

Oral Communications
At 3:12 p.m. Mayor Keeley opened Oral Communications for members of the public who wished to speak regarding items not listed on the City Council agenda.

James Ewing Whitman spoke regarding the comments he made at the County Board of Supervisors meeting earlier in the day.

Bradley Snyder spoke regarding a conversation he had with the new CEO of Santa Cruz METRO.

Unidentified person spoke regarding the Pledge of Allegiance, particularly liberty, and stated Americans need to reaffirm America’s roots and values.

At 3:19 p.m. Mayor Keeley closed Oral Communications.

Presiding Officer's Announcements
Statements of Disqualification – Councilmember Newsome announced he will be recusing himself from item 28 as he owns property within 500 feet of the project.

Additions and Deletions – None.

6.4 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8322
City Attorney Report on Closed Session – See page 8319 for the report.

Council Meeting Calendar

9. The City Council reviewed and did not revise the meeting calendar attached to the agenda.

Consent Agenda
Councilmember Brunner made a comment on item 17.

Director of Parks and Recreation T. Elliot responded to Council questions regarding item 17.

Councilmember Newsome made a comment on items 16, 17, and 20.

Mayor Keeley opened the public comment period. The following people spoke:

James Ewing Whitman made a comment on items 10 and 21.

Bradley Snyder made a comment on item 21.

Mayor Keeley closed the public comment period.

MOTION: Councilmember Trigueiro moved, seconded by Councilmember Newsome, to approve the Consent Agenda.

ACTION: The motion carried unanimously with the following vote.

AYES: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Newsome, Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

NOES: None.

ABSENT: None.

DISQUALIFIED: None.

10. Minutes of the June 23, 2026 City Council Meeting (CC) LOCATION: None
Motion carried to approve as submitted.

6.5 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8323
Consent Agenda (continued)

11. Certification of the June 2, 2026 Primary Election (CC) LOCATION: Districts 4 and 6, Citywide
Resolution No. NS-30,684 was adopted confirming and approving the canvass of ballots and returns for the City of Santa Cruz Primary Election held on June 2, 2026, and declaring the results.

12. Designation of Voting Delegate and Alternate to Attend the League of California Cities Annual Conference and Expo (CC)
LOCATION: Citywide
Motion carried to designate Councilmember Brunner as the voting delegate, and Councilmember Golder as the alternate, to attend the League of California Cities Annual Conference and Expo in Anaheim September 23—25, 2026.

13. 2026-2031 Economic Development Strategy Budget Adjustment (ED) LOCATION: Citywide
Resolution No. NS-30,685 was adopted amending the Fiscal Year 2027 budget to appropriate $87,750 in the Economic Development Trust Fund (Fund 136) for the 2026-2031 Economic Development Strategy consultant contract.

14. Resolution of Support for Designation of the City’s Eligible Census Tract to be Considered for Inclusion as an Opportunity Zone in the Opportunity Zone 2.0 Program (ED)
LOCATION: District 4
Resolution No. NS-30,686 was adopted authorizing submission of a local authority recommendation form requesting that Census Tract 06087101002 be considered by the State of California for Opportunity Zone designation in the Opportunity Zone 2.0 Program.

15. Liability Claims Filed Against the City of Santa Cruz (FN) Motion carried to reject the liability claims of 1) Mathew D. Sheldon, 2) Michael John Deuschel, 3) Juan Carlos Valencia, 4) Joshua S. Grant, and 5) Nathan Escalante, and to return as late the claim of 6) Jose Noel Hinojosa, based on staff recommendation.

6.6 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8324
Consent Agenda (continued)

16. Civic Auditorium – Handrail Project (c302422) – Notice of Completion (PR) LOCATION: District 4
Motion carried to accept the work of Selway Construction, Inc. (San Jose, CA) as completed per the plans and specifications and authorize the filing of the Notice of Completion for Civic Auditorium - Handrail Project (c302422).

17. Award Contract for Poet's Park Playground Improvement Project (c302603) (PR) LOCATION: District 4
Motion carried to:
 Approve the plan and design of the Poet’s Park Playground Improvement Project (c302603), as shown in the attachment, POET'S PARK PLAYGROUNDOPTION 2.PDF;  Award the Poet's Park Playground equipment and installation contract to Ross Recreation Equipment (Santa Rosa, CA) in the amount of $130,195.63, and Authorize the City Manager to execute the contract in a form approved by the City Attorney;
 Authorize the Parks and Recreation Director to execute change orders within the project budget, including potential modifications of the approved plan and design; and
 Adopt a finding of exemption from CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061 (Common Sense Exemption) and the following categorical exemptions: CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities); Section 15302 (Replacement or Reconstruction); Section 15303 (New Construction or Conversion of New Structures); and Section 15304 (Minor Alterations of Land).

6.7 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8325
Consent Agenda (continued)

18. Award Contract to Davey Resource Group, Inc. for GIS Tree Inventory Update (PR)
LOCATION: Citywide
Motion carried to:
 Award a contract to Davey Resource Group, Inc. (DRG) in the amount of $150,000 to prepare a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Tree Inventory update on a sub-set of the city-wide tree inventory, as part of the grant funding awarded by the Urban Sustainability Director’s Network (USDN) to expand tree canopy, improve tree care, and grow community capacity in Santa Cruz;
 Authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement in a form acceptable to the City Attorney; and
 Adopt a finding of CEQA exemption pursuant to (1) the Class 6 Categorical Exemption (14 CCR 15306) for information collection, and (2) the Common Sense Exemption (14 CCR 15061(b)(3)).

19. MRF Stormwater Tanks Pad Installation Project (c402111) – Authorization to Advertise and Award (PW)
LOCATION: District 6
Motion carried to:
 Approve the plans and specifications for the MRF Stormwater Tanks Pad Installation Project (c402111); authorize staff to advertise for bids and award the contract. The City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to execute the contract in a form approved by the City Attorney, and as authorized by Resolution No. NS-27,563. The Director of Public Works is authorized to execute change orders within the approved project budget.  Adopt a CEQA finding of categorical exemption pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15302 (Replacement or Reconstruction).

6.8 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8326
Consent Agenda (continued)

20. Pacific-Beach Roundabout Enhancements Project (c402507) – Notice of Completion (PW)
LOCATION: District 4
Motion carried to accept the work of Anderson Pacific Engineering Construction, Inc. (Santa Clara, CA) as completed per plans and specifications, authorize the filing of the Notice of Completion for the Pacific-Beach Roundabout Enhancements Project (c402507), and authorize the Public Works Director to sign the Notice of Completion as the Owner’s Authorized Agent.

21. Purchase of One Refuse Front Loader and Two Sweeper Vehicles (PW) LOCATION: Citywide
Motion carried to:
 Authorize the purchase of one Front Loader vehicle from Western Truck Parts and Equipment (Sacramento, CA) in the amount of $550,000; and  Authorize the purchase of two Fayat Ravo R5 Series sweeper vehicles from Municipal Maintenance Equipment (Sacramento, CA) in the amount of $700,000.

22. Award of Agreement to Chemtrade Chemicals US, LLC for Liquid Aluminum Sulfate (WT)
LOCATION: Citywide
Motion carried to accept the bid of Chemtrade Chemicals US, LLC (Toronto, Canada) for liquid aluminum sulfate and authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement in a form approved by the City Attorney.

6.9 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8327
Consent Agenda (continued)

23. Old City of Santa Cruz Dam Removal Project Landowner Agreement and Cooperator Agreement (WT)
LOCATION: County
Motion carried to authorize the City Manager to execute the following agreements, in a form to be approved by the City Attorney, for the Old City of Santa Cruz Dam Removal Project (Project):
 Landowner Agreement between Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz and the City of Santa Cruz; and
 Cooperator Agreement between the United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County, and the City of Santa Cruz.

End Consent Agenda
Consent Public Hearing
Mayor Keeley opened the public comment period. There were no speakers. Mayor Keeley closed the public comment period.

MOTION: Councilmember O’Hara moved, seconded by Councilmember Brunner, to approve the Consent Public Hearing Agenda.

ACTION: The motion carried unanimously with the following vote.

AYES: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Newsome, Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

NOES: None.

ABSENT: None.

DISQUALIFIED: None.

24. 2nd Reading and Final Adoption of Ordinance No. 2026-14 Amending Santa Cruz Municipal Code Section 1.18.020 to Adjust the Salaries of the Mayor and Councilmembers (CN)
LOCATION: Citywide
Ordinance No. 2026-14 was adopted to adjust the salaries of the Mayor and Councilmembers.

6.10 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8328
Consent Public Hearing (continued)

25. TEFRA Hearing and Resolution Regarding Recycled Conduit Funding for the Calypso Project (ED)
LOCATION: District 4
Motion carried to:
 Conduct the public hearing under the requirements of Tax and Equity Fiscal Responsibility Act (“TEFRA”) and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”); and
 Adopt Resolution No. NS-30,687 approving the issuance of tax-exempt multifamily housing revenue bonds in an amount not to exceed $75,000,000 (the “Bonds”), by the California Municipal Finance Authority (“CMFA”) for the benefit of Calypso Affordable LP (the “Borrower”), to provide for the financing of the multi-family rental affordable housing project, and rescinding Resolution No. NS-30,640.

6.11 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8329
General Business

26. CalPERS Contract Amendment (HR)
LOCATION: Citywide
Chief People Officer S. De Leon spoke and responded to Council questions.

Mayor Keeley opened the public comment period. There were no speakers.

Mayor Keeley closed the public comment period.

MOTION: Councilmember O’Hara moved, seconded by Councilmember Brunner, to:
 Adopt Resolution No. NS-30,688 declaring the City Council’s intention to approve an amendment to the City’s contract with the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) to remove the contract exclusions applicable to “All Appointive Members of the Boards and Commissions; and Persons Compensated On An Hourly Basis Employed June 26, 1962, or thereafter as County Branch Library Aides, Library Pages, School Crossing Guards and Recreation Department Employees” prospectively from the effective date of this amendment to contract; and
 Introduce for publication Ordinance No. 2026-15 implementing the CalPERS contract amendment.

ACTION: The motion carried unanimously with the following vote.

AYES: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Newsome, Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

NOES: None.

ABSENT: None.

DISQUALIFIED: None.

6.12 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8330
General Business (continued)

27. 2025-2030 City of Santa Cruz Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and Climate Adaptation Plan (LHM-CAP) – Year 1 Implementation Progress Report (CM) LOCATION: Citywide
Sustainability and Resiliency Officer T. Wise-West gave a presentation and responded to Council questions.

Mayor Keeley opened the public comment period. The following people spoke.

Unidentified person
James Ewing-Whitman
Mayor Keeley closed the public comment period.

MOTION: Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson moved, seconded by Councilmember Newsome, to accept the LHM-CAP Year 1 Implementation Progress Report.

ACTION: The motion carried unanimously with the following vote.

AYES: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Newsome, Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

NOES: None.

ABSENT: None.

DISQUALIFIED: None.

At this time, Councilmember Newsome left the dais.

6.13 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8331
Public Hearing

28. 900 High Street: CP25-0105 (APN 001-022-45) Major Modification and Density Bonus Request Proposing Modifications to Application No. CP22-0164 to Revise the Previous Density Bonus Request, Increase the Total Number of Residential Units from 40 to 47, Alter the Unit Mix, and Modify the Building Design/Envelope Compared to the Project Design as Previously Approved.

Environmental Review: Statutory Exemption Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21083.3. Applicant: Sibley Simon, Workbench. Owner: Envision Peace Village, LLC, c/o Sibley Simon (CD)
LOCATION: District 5
Senior Planner R. Bane gave a presentation and responded to Council questions.

Director of Community Development L. Butler, project applicant Sibley Simon, City Attorney C. Bronson, Deputy City Attorney A. Geise, and Housing and Community Development Manager J. de Wit, responded to Council questions.

Mayor Keeley opened the public comment period. The following people spoke.

David Pattee
John Hall
Unidentified person
Clayton Markel
Deb de la Luz deBruyn
Bradly Snyder
Andrew Merriam
Judi Grunstra
Unidentified person
Ron Goodman
Andrea Tolaio
Deborah Elston
Mayor Keeley closed the public comment period.

6.14 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8332
Public Hearing (continued)

28. 900 High Street: CP25-0105 (APN 001-022-45) Major Modification and Density Bonus Request to Application No. CP22-0164 (CD) LOCATION: District 5 (continued)
MOTION: Councilmember O’Hara moved, seconded by Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson, to:
1) Adopt Resolution No. NS-30,689 acknowledging the environmental determination (Statutory Exemption pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21083.3) and approving a Major Modification and Density Bonus Request proposing modifications to Application No. CP22-0164 based on the findings listed in the resolution and the Conditions of Approval attached as Exhibit “A,” with the following amendments:
 Revise Findings 22 through 25, “Inclusionary Alternate Approach, Sections 24.16.030.2 and 24.16.030.11,” to deny the applicant’s proposed alternative inclusionary compliance method, including the finding of conformance with Section 24.16.025.
 Amend the Conditions of Approval #35 to require compliance with the City’s inclusionary housing requirements, including the representativeunit-mix requirement, while preserving the affordability required for the project’s State Density Bonus; and
2) Authorize the City Attorney and Community Development Director to make revisions necessary to effectuate this direction, with all other project approvals, findings, and conditions remaining as recommended.

FRIENDLY AMENDMENT: Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson requested to add to the motion:
1) Amend the resolution to remove “Incentive/Concession 2 - Option for Streamlined Tenant Selection;” and
2) Direct staff to include quantifiable data that demonstrates cost saving when incentives/concessions or waivers are requested by applicants for future projects.

Councilmember O’Hara accepted.

At 6:11 p.m. Council took a break and returned at 6:27 p.m.

6.15 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8333
Public Hearing (continued)

28. 900 High Street: CP25-0105 (APN 001-022-45) Major Modification and Density Bonus Request to Application No. CP22-0164 (CD) LOCATION: District 5 (continued)
After discussion, Councilmember O’Hara withdrew the motion and made the following motion:

MOTION: Councilmember O’Hara moved, seconded by Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson, to:
 Adopt Resolution No. NS-30,689 acknowledging the environmental determination (Statutory Exemption pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21083.3) and approving a Major Modification and Density Bonus Request proposing modifications to Application No. CP22-0164 based on the findings listed in the resolution and the Conditions of Approval attached as Exhibit “A,” with the following amendment:
 Remove “Incentive/Concession 2 - Option for Streamlined Tenant Selection” and replace it with an alternative concession request to allow for the Inclusionary Alternate Approach, per 24.16.030, proposed by the applicant, as articulated in their proposal and the City’s staff report.
 Authorize the City Attorney and Community Development Director to make the conforming revisions necessary to the resolution to effectuate the amendment above, and with all other project approvals, findings, and conditions remaining, as recommended; and
 Direct staff to include quantifiable data that demonstrates cost saving when incentives/concessions are requested by applicants for future projects.

ACTION: The motion carried with the following vote.

AYES: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

NOES: None.

ABSENT: None.

DISQUALIFIED: Councilmember Newsome.

Adjournment – Councilmember Golder moved, seconded by Councilmember Trigueiro, to adjourn. By consensus City Council adjourned at 6:36 p.m.

6.16 August 11, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8334
Respectfully Submitted:

Julia Wood, Deputy City Clerk Administrator
Attest:

Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator
Approved:

Fred Keeley, Mayor

6.17 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/06/2026
AGENDA OF: 08/25/2026
DEPARTMENT: Fire
SUBJECT: Fire Station 63 Butler Building Construction (FD) LOCATION: District 6
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to:
1) Adopt a resolution approving the design, plans, and specifications for the Fire Station 63 Butler Building prepared by William C. Kempf Architects; 2) Adopt a resolution amending the FY 2027 budget to transfer $111,771 from the Public Safety Impact Fee Fund 217 to the General Capital Investment Program Fund 311 to complete construction of a Butler Building at Fire Station 63 for the Santa Cruz Fire Department and appropriate funds to project c212306;
3) Authorize the City to enter into a contract, in a form to be approved by the City Attorney, for approximately $177,001 with American Project Solutions for the construction of the Fire Station 63 Butler Building; and
4) Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to execute change orders within the approved project budget.

BACKGROUND: Fire Station 63, formerly identified as Fire Station 3, is located at 335 Younglove Avenue. The facility is a full-service fire station that is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by an engine company, and houses and operates the department’s sole Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) filling station compressor, and stores vehicles and equipment for the department.

In an effort to preserve the usable life of a reserve fire apparatus, utility vehicles, the SCBA compressor, as well as fire suppression and fire prevention equipment, the Santa Cruz Fire Department (SCFD”) requested and received funding through the Capital Investment Program (CIP) to build a Butler Building (a metal building intended to store backup/reserve equipment and apparatus) at Station 63.

SCFD worked with William C. Kempf Architects (WCK Architects), as well as subcontractors C2G, Alpha Surveyors, Pacific Crest Engineering, and Allegri Electric for trade-specific content,

7.1 to submit plans and secure permits for a Butler Building designed and engineered by Pacific Metal Buildings. Design permit CP24-0175 was approved by the City of Santa Cruz Community Development Department on November 21, 2025 and became effective on December 1, 2025.

Building permit B25-0290 was approved by the City of Santa Cruz Community Development Department on January 15, 2026 and was issued on February 27, 2026.

While the project has already received design and building approvals, staff seek to confirm that the Council approves of the project and the project’s design. The proposed resolution also avails the City of the immunities set forth in Government Code § 830.6.

DISCUSSION: On June 23, 2026, an Invitation For Bids (IFB) was solicited to vendors for the concrete pad, project management, and building permit compliance detailed in the IFB scope through the City of Santa Cruz OpenGov portal. The bids were unsealed on July 29, 2026, and the lowest qualified bidder was American Project Solutions, which bid $177,001.28. Staff has issued a Notice of Intent to award the project to Americal Project Solutions and would move forward with that contract if Council approval is confirmed.

The contractor will be responsible for: demolition and installation of the concrete pad that the metal building will be installed on; trenching and installation of utilities; replacement of the stormwater bio-retention area; green building compliance; managing the project and the specialty contractors pre-selected by the SCFD for the electrical, above-ground fire sprinkler, and the metal building installation contractor; and ensuring the code compliance and completion of all aspects of the building permit to secure the certificate of occupancy. The specialty contractors have been selected through approved City processes and will contract directly with SCFD.

Construction of a Butler Building to store backup/reserve equipment and apparatus, and to preserve the lifespan of equipment, is critical for SCFD to address the additional wear and tear on equipment, apparatus, and the SCBA compressor due to the increased call volume from new development within the City. This building is a critical piece in the strategic planning for SCFD to maintain a consistent level of service for the City, despite the impacts of the increased demands due to new development.

As of August 5, 2026, Fund 217 (Fire Public Safety Impact Fee) holds a balance of $243,332.27 and fully covers the $111,771 needed to complete the project. The Butler Building project (c212306) was approved for $202,884 from the City’s CIP during annual budget proceedings.

With the budget for the project totaling $308,155, a transfer from the PSIF in the amount of $111,771 will cover the budget deficit and balance the budget for this project.

The project plans and other information can be reviewed on the City’s website:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/Government/City-Departments/Fire-Department/Projects-andNotices . A direct link to the project plans, with architectural drawings prepared by WCK Architects (drawing date, April 30, 2025), is:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/fd/younglove-ave-335-b25-0290-approvedplans.pdf.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: A design permit was issued for this project on November 21, 2025, at which time planning department staff determined the project falls within the Statutory Exemption set forth in CEQA Guidelines section 15303, which exempts new construction of small structures.

7.2 HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): The proposed scope of work aligns with the following City’s Health in All Policies (HiAP) pillar of Public Health, ensuring that the SCFD preserves its critical lifesaving apparatus, equipment, and SCBA filling station by building a structure to protect and preserves the life span of the equipment. The HiAP pillar of sustainability is supported through extended lifespan of equipment as well as sustainable design elements incorporated into the construction process and overall building and site design. This includes but is not limited to compliance with 2022 California Green Building Standards Code Nonresidential Mandatory Measures and a redesigned stormwater bio-retention area.

FISCAL IMPACT:

1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: Yes

2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: Yes

3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: Yes FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: The Fire Station 63 Butler Building project (c212306) is funded through the City’s General Fund, Fund 101, and the SCFD PSIF Fund, Fund 217. The total cost anticipated for the project is $314,655. A total of $200,000 was awarded for this project from the General Fund through the City’s CIP during the FY 2026 budget process and $2,884 in FY 2024. A budget adjustment from the PSIF fund will fund the remaining $111,771 required to complete the project. All maintenance costs for this structure after its construction will be absorbed in the SCFD’s operating budget in the General Fund.

Prepared By:

Megan Nutt
Principal Management
Analyst
Submitted By:

Rob Oatey
Fire Chief
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. RESOLUTION.DOCX

2. BUDGET ADJUSTMENT.PDF

7.3 RESOLUTION NO. NS-30,XXX

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ ADOPTING AND APPROVING THE DESIGN. PLANS, AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE FIRE STATION 63 BUTLER BUILDING PROJECT PREPARED BY BILL KEMPF ARCHITECTS WHEREAS, Fire Station 63, formerly identified as Fire Station 3, is located at 335 Younglove Avenue, Santa Cruz, California; and
WHEREAS, Fire Station 63 is a full-service fire station that is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by an engine company, and houses and operates the Santa Cruz Fire Department’s (SCFD) sole Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) filling station compressor, and stores vehicles and equipment for the department; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Santa Cruz (City Council) desires to adopt and approve the plans and specifications for the Project, as prepared by William C. Kempf Architects; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed and considered the design, plans, and specifications and the related staff report and materials prepared for approval of the same; WHEREAS, the City Council finds it appropriate and in the public interest to adopt and approve the plans and specifications for the Project.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ AS FOLLOWS:

1. The above recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein by this reference.

2. The City Council finds that adopting and approving the design, plans, and Specifications for the Project is in the best interests of the City and its residents.

3. The City Council hereby adopts and approves the design, plans, and specifications for the Fire Station 63 Butler Building project, with architectural drawings prepared by William C.

Kempf Architects, with a drawing date of April 30, 2025, consisting of 18 sheets entitled New Metal Building For: S.C.F.D. – Fire Station No. 3, together with any associated specifications, details, and addenda identified in the Agenda Materials. A direct link to the approved design, plans, and specifications is: https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/fd/younglove-ave335-b25-0290-approved-plans.pdf .

4. If any provision of this Resolution or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of this Resolution and the application of its provisions to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected and shall remain in full force and effect.

5. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.

7.4 PASSED AND ADOPTED this 25th day of August, 2026 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

DISQUALIFIED:

APPROVED: ______________________________
Fred Keeley, Mayor
ATTEST: _________________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator

7.5 City of Santa Cruz

BUDGET ADJUSTMENT REQUEST
$GPLQLVWUDWLYH$SSURYDO
)LVFDO<HDU

ACCOUNT 352-(&71$0(
LIDSSOLFDEOH
255(9(18($&&28177,7/(
ACCOUNT 352-(&71$0(
LIDSSOLFDEOH
25EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT TITLE
NET: $

REQUESTED BY DEPARTMENT HEAD

APPROVAL

BUDGET/ACCOUNTING
5(9,(:('

FINANCE DIRECTOR

APPROVAL

CITYMANAGER

APPROVAL
5HVR

352-(&7
352-(&7
$02817
$02817
&RXQFLO$SSURYDO

TOTAL EXPENDITURE

TOTALREVENUE
'DWH

1VSQPTF
3FWJTFE/PWFNCFS
Clear Form
2027
08/04/2026
Transfer funds from the Fire Department's Public Safety Impact Fee Fund 217 into the FY 2027 budget for the Butler Building construction project, c212306, in the General Capital Improvement Fund, Fund 311. 311-00-00-0000-49183 c212306-993-0-0 Fire Public Safety Impact Fee Fund 111,771 111,771
311-21-31-2202-57290 c212306-100-2020-0 Other Machinery and equipment 111,771 217-00-00-000-59103 To General Fund from Fire Public Safety Impact Fee Fund 111,771 223,542
-111,771
Megan
Nutt
Digitally signed
by Megan Nutt
Date: 2026.08.06
10:48:15 -07'00'
Rob
Oatey
Digitally signed
by Rob Oatey
Date: 2026.08.06
11:27:43 -07'00'
Emily
Burton
Digitally signed
by Emily Burton
Date: 2026.08.10
09:41:52 -07'00'
Elizabet
h Cabell
Digitally signed by
Elizabeth Cabell
Date: 2026.08.10
09:45:55 -07'00' 7.6
City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/03/2026
AGENDA OF: 08/25/2026
DEPARTMENT: Finance
SUBJECT: Liability Claims Filed Against the City of Santa Cruz (FN) RECOMMENDATION: Motion to reject the liability claims of 1) Phoebe Ann Kelley, 2) John Balquist as Trustee of the Anthony J. Koci Trust, 3) Mary Sierra, 4) Maria Gabriela Martin, and 5) Marianne Roberts, based on staff recommendation.

BACKGROUND: N/A
DISCUSSION: Claims to be rejected:

1. Claimant: Phoebe Ann Kelley
Date of occurrence: 6/30/2026
Date of claim: 7/7/2026
Amount of claim: Unspecified
Claimant seeks damages related to alleged violations of her civil rights and seeks reimbursement for fees after an alleged illegal tow of her vehicle.

Self-Represented

2. Claimant: John Balquist as Trustee of the Anthony J. Koci Trust Date of occurrence: 4/10/2026
Date of claim: 7/13/2026
Amount of claim: Unspecified
Claimant seeks damages after being sued for an alleged trip and fall on a sidewalk located adjacent to a property owned by Claimant.

Represented by Legal Counsel

8.1 3. Claimant: Mary Sierra
Date of occurrence: 2/15/2026
Date of claim: 7/10/2026
Amount of claim: Unspecified
Claimant seeks damages related to an alleged trip and fall.

Represented by Legal Counsel

4. Claimant: Maria Gabriela Martin
Date of occurrence: 1/26/2026
Date of claim: 7/23/2026
Amount of claim: Unspecified
Claimant seeks damages related to an alleged trip and fall at 115 Coral Street.

Represented by Legal Counsel

5. Claimant: Marianne Roberts
Date of occurrence: 7/18/2026
Date of claim: 7/22/2026
Amount of claim: $978.43
Claimant seeks reimbursement for fees after an alleged illegal tow of her vehicle.

Self-Represented
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: N/A HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:

1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: No

2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: No

3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: No FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: No fiscal impact.

Prepared By:

Ross Brandon
Risk & Safety Manager
Submitted By:

Elizabeth Cabell
Finance Director
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

None.

8.2 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/06/2026
AGENDA OF: 08/25/2026
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
SUBJECT: Resource Recovery Facility Caterpillar 826K Compactor Rebuild (PW) LOCATION: Citywide
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to enter into a contract in the amount of $488,854.35 with Peterson Tractor Company (San Leandro, CA) to rebuild the Caterpillar 826K compactor, the current landfill compactor tractor.

BACKGROUND: The Public Works Department Resource Recovery Division has an equipment replacement schedule built into the current refuse rates. This fiscal year, the Landfill Compactor Tractor meets or exceeds the recommended replacement criteria and is programmed for exchange. This vehicle is a vital piece of equipment to the Santa Cruz Recourse Recovery Facility (RRF).

DISCUSSION: The RRF receives approximately 50,000 tons of refuse, 15,000 tons of fill material, 15,000 tons of wood and construction debris. Staff also excavate and process approximately 20,000 cubic yards of native soil for landfill operations every year. The 826K Compactor Tractor is an essential piece of equipment for the Landfill operations and allows staff to safely compact refuse material to a maximum density, correct steep slopes, build daily lifts, flip refuse materials, and maintain roads to engineer specifications. Waiting for a catastrophic failure would be detrimental to daily operations.

The existing 826K Compactor tractor was purchased in November 2018 and has approximately 11,318 hours of use and is in need of a complete rebuild of its mechanical systems. The 10,000- hour point is a typical replacement time for heavy equipment, and this machine has surpassed its life expectancy. Therefore, an overhaul of all systems is required for continued operation. The rebuild cost is $488,854.35 and includes the same warranty as when purchasing a new piece of equipment. Purchasing a new 826k Compactor Tractor would cost approximately $1.1 million.

Staff recommends that Council approve the rebuild of the Caterpillar 826K Compactor Tractor from Peterson Tractor. Peterson Tractor has the capability to renew our Caterpillar 826K Compactor Tractor with like new features and provide a 36 Month/ 5,000-hour powertrain + Hydraulics+ Tech warranty. The rebuilt Compactor will be equipped with a Caterpillar automatic exhaust regeneration system, Tier 4 Final with 80% reduction in NOX emissions. The rebuilt Compactor will also include a heavy-duty undercarriage that is built to handle the waste

9.1 industry’s harsh environment and an automatic engine idle shutdown system that significantly reduces idle time, overall operating hours and fuel consumption.

Since all other RRF heavy equipment is Caterpillar brand, the rebuild of this 826K Caterpillar Compactor Tractor will make the service, maintenance, repairs and obtaining parts more efficient.

Peterson Caterpillar has offered the City discounts in the amount of $135,481.89. The rebuild will include a 3-year or 5,000-hour power train warranty and 9.75% sales tax.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: This is not a “project” under CEQA. (14 CCR 15378(b) (“Project does not include: . . . (2) Continuing . . . maintenance activities[.]”)
HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): This approval promotes health in all policies through promoting healthy environments and a safe and just community. Rebuilding our equipment will save cost and resources while promoting work for vendors in the greater Bay Area. Approval of the proposed rebuild allows essential City services to continue providing services to all citizens in an efficient and timely manner with fully functional fleet.

FISCAL IMPACT:

1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: No

2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: No

3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: No FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: The overall fiscal impact for the full rebuild price of the 826K Compactor is $488,854.35 including sales tax. Funding for the rebuilt equipment is included in the approved FY 2027 Refuse Enterprise Fund budget. There is no impact to the General Fund.

Prepared By:

Eduardo A. Silva
Resource Recovery Supervisor
Submitted By:

Nathan Nguyen, P.E.

Director of Public Works
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. SINGLE SOURCE MEMO.DOCX

2. QUOTE SUMMARY.PDF

9.2 PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

MEMORANDUM
DATE: July 10, 2026
TO: Elizabeth Millwee, Purchasing Manager
FROM: Eddie Silva, Resource Recovery Supervisor
SUBJECT: Single Source Justification Peterson Tractor Caterpillar 826K Compactor Rebuild (PW)
Background
The Public Works Department Resource Recovery Division has an equipment replacement schedule built into the current refuse rates. This fiscal year our Landfill Compactor Tractor meets or exceeds the recommended replacement criteria and is programmed for exchange. This equipment is a vital piece of equipment to the Recourse Recovery Facility. The rebuild cost is from the Refuse Fund of one (1) Caterpillar 826K Compactor in the amount of $488,854.35 from Peterson Tractor Co. (San Leandro, CA). This includes the same warranty as when purchasing a new piece of equipment. purchasing a new 826k Compactor Tractor would cost approximately

1.1 million.

Reason for Non-competitive Agreement
Peterson Caterpillar is the only authorized dealer in the area that is capable of rebuilding our tractor to like new conditions and full warranty.

As part of the city’s purchasing processes, a “Single Source” may be authorized when a good or service needs to be procured timely without a formal process. After discussions with Public Works and Purchasing staff, the proposed work meets the definition of a Single Source scenario.

Price Reasonableness Analysis
The pricing provided in the quote has been evaluated and determined to be fair and reasonable.

Rebuild to like new Cat 826k Compactor - $488,854.35
New Cat 826 Compactor - $1,095,352.19
New Cat 836 Compactor - $1,662,073.54

9.3 This memorandum serves as request to the Purchasing Manager to proceed with a Single Source Purchase with Peterson Caterpillar Tractor under the following conditions:
 The not-to-exceed amount shall be under $500,000 under this authorization.

9.4 QUOTE SUMMARY
Customer Name: __________________________________________________________ Quote # _____________________________ Account Number: _________________________________________________________ Quote Revision # ______________________ Model: __________________________________________________________________ Est Start Date: ________________________ Serial Number: ____________________________________________________________ Est Completion Date: ___________________

SERVICES PERFORMED
$
$
Total before discount $
Discounts $
Grand Total $
ESTIMATE VALID FOR THIRTY DAYS STARTING:

Quote subject to change upon inspection and tear down.

P147_0726

CITY OF SANTA CRUZ/LANDFILL
5697100
826K
023206402
2158443
4 CPT+HYD..PLUS.. REBUILD
CLEAN MACHINE ✔
REPLACE WITH CAT REMAN- CLEAN EMISSIONS MODULE. ✔
REPLACE WITH CAT REMAN- TRANSMISSION OIL PUMP. ✔
REPLACE WITH CAT REMAN- HYDRAULIC FAN PUMP. ✔
REPLACE WITH NEW- HYDRAULIC FAN MOTOR. ✔
REPLACE WITH NEW- MODULE EXHAUST FLUID. ✔
REPLACE WITH NEW- IMPLEMENT PUMP. ✔
REPLACE WITH NEW- STEERING PUMP,BRAKE PUMP. ✔
REPLACE WITH NEW- POWERTRAIN HOSES & LINES. ✔
REPLACE WITH NEW-HYDRAULIC FAN HOSES & LINES ✔
REPLACE WITH NEW-BRAKE HOSES & LINES. ✔
REPLACE WITH NEW- IMPLEMENT /STEERING HOSES & LINES. ✔
REPLACE WITH NEW- FUEL SUPPLY/RETURN LINES HOSES. ✔
REPLACE WITH NEW- DIESEL EXHAUST FLUID HOSES. ✔
REPLACE WITH NEW- FAN DRIVE HOSES. ✔
REPLACE WITH NEW- HEATER & AIR CONDITIONER HOSES. ✔
REPLACE WITH NEW- STEERING PILOT VALVE CONTROL. ✔
REPLACE WITH NEW- CCR WIRING HARNESSES POWERTRAIN/HYDRAULIC. ✔ RECONDITION- ENGINE,TRANSMISSION, TORQUE CONVERTER. ✔
RECONDITION- AXLE ARRANGEMENTS FRONT/REAR. ✔
RECONDITION- FAN REVERSING VALVE,BRAKE ACCUM CHARGING VALVE. ✔ RECONDITION- IMPLEMENT, STEERING CONTROL, BOTTOM GUARD, VALVES. ✔ RECONDITION- ALL HYDRAULIC CYLINDERS. ✔
RECONDITION- HYDRAULIC TANK ✔
RECONDITION- TRANSMISSION HYD ELEC CONTROL,IMPLEMENT CONTROL. ✔ RECONDITION- PARKING BRAKE,DRIVE SHAFT. ✔
RECONDITION- RADIATOR & OIL COOLER. ✔
RECONDITION- LEVEL 1 OPERATOR STATION ✔
RECONDITION- CENTERHITCH ✔
PERFORM- PM 4 SERVICE. ✔
MISC REPAIRS FROM MACHINE INSPECTION 28945678. ✔
TEST/CHECK & ADJUST- MACHINE AFTER REPAIRS. ✔
KIDNEY LOOP -OIL COMPARTMENTS IF NEEDED. ✔
36 Month/5000 Hour Power Train EPP 21,510.00
36 Month/5000 Hour Power Train EPP Discount 21,510.00
624,336.24
135,481.89
488,854.35
7/13/26
PAINT- MACHINE. TRANSPORT MACHINE ✔

9.5 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/06/2026
AGENDA OF: 08/25/2026
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
SUBJECT: Safe Streets and Roads for All - Grant Application (PW) LOCATION: Citywide
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to:
1) Apply for, and if awarded, accept and appropriate funds from the Federal Department of Transportation Safe Streets and Roads for All Fiscal Year 2026 funding program for the Improving Post-Crash Care Through EMS Innovation and Signal Preemption Project; and 2) Find that the Council’s action is exempt from CEQA under CEQA’s Common Sense Exemption (14 CCR 15061(b)(3)).

BACKGROUND: The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) established the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) competitive grant program with $5 billion in appropriated funds over five years, 2022-2026. The SS4A program funds regional, local, and Tribal initiatives through grants to prevent roadway fatalities and serious injuries. The fiscal year 2026 funding opportunity includes approximately $993.5 million.

The SS4A program is grounded in the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Roadway Safety Strategy and Vision Zero goal using a Safe System Approach. Competitive projects for the SS4A program use Safe Systems Approach to address changes to the transportation system.

The City of Santa Cruz (City) has also adopted a Vision Zero goal and is currently developing our Safety Action Plan using the Safe System Approach.

The Safe System Approach framework recognizes that deaths and serious injuries on our roadways are unacceptable, that humans make mistakes, that human bodies are vulnerable and have physical limits for tolerating crashes, that responsibility is shared, safety is proactive, and redundancy is crucial. To address roadway safety, the Safe Systems Approach uses five complementary objectives: safer people, safer roads, safer vehicles, safer speeds, and post-crash care.

The funding application the City has submitted focuses on post-crash care. The “Improving PostCrash Care Through EMS Innovation and Signal Preemption” project includes funding for a pilot.

10.1 DISCUSSION: The City is in the final stages of completing its SS4A funded Safety Action Plan, which identifies post-crash care and emergency medical response as critical components in improving survivability outcomes. Analysis of the City’s High Injury Network (HIN) indicates that severe and fatal collisions are concentrated along key corridors where rapid EMS access is essential and traffic is controlled by signalized intersections.

National research consistently demonstrates that rapid EMS response and timely access to definitive care are among the most significant predictors of survival following severe injury.

Locally, coordination among fire, police, and EMS stakeholders has confirmed that improving response times is one of the most actionable and high-impact strategies available to reduce fatal and serious injury outcomes.

The City applied for a Planning and Demonstration project to pilot two integrated strategies that improve post-crash care, reduce emergency response times, and ultimately decrease roadway fatalities and serious injuries:
1) Funding four years of staffing for deployment of a smaller, dedicated medical response vehicle for non-fire emergency medical calls; and
2) Implementation of a cloud-based emergency vehicle signal preemption system integrated with the City’s Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) platform.

Together, these strategies directly advance the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program’s goal of reducing traffic fatalities and serious injuries through innovative, data-driven interventions. This project aligns strongly with SS4A merit criteria by demonstrating a clear safety need, leveraging technology to improve outcomes, incorporating measurable performance evaluation, and offering scalable solutions for broader replication.

This agenda report comes after grant submission due to time constraints with the application deadline.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: The proposed Council action is not a “project” under CEQA because the Council’s action will not cause a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change to the environment. The proposed Council action is also exempt from CEQA under the Common Sense Exemption (CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3)) because it can be seen with certainty that the proposed Council action will not cause a significant effect on the environment.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): This project promotes the Health in All Policies Condition of Health and Wellness. Improving roadway safety for all users ensures that people can move through our community in a safer manner. This project ensures that when collisions do occur, emergency services can quickly and effectively access those locations and be able to quickly transport to hospital facilities. This initiative supports the HiAP goal of Public Safety via improved response times for high priority medical response calls.

FISCAL IMPACT:

1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: Yes

2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: No

3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: Yes

10.2 FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: The total project cost is $4,797,224 over four years. If awarded, the federal share would cover 80% ($3,837,779). The 20% local share ($959,445) would come from the Fire Department annual budget for existing staff (approx. $875,000 or $212,000/yr from the General Fund) and signal preemption work (approx. $110,000 from the Traffic Impact Fee fund). This would be spread over four years. If the grant is awarded, a budget adjustment will be brought to City Council.

Prepared By:

Claire Gallogly
Principal Transportation
Planner
Megan Nutt
Principal Management
Analyst
Submitted By:

Nathan Nguyen, P.E.

Director of Public Works
Rob Oatey
Fire Chief
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. GRANT NARRATIVE.PDF

10.3 City of Santa Cruz
FY 2026 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Application Planning and Demonstration Grant Project Title: Improving Post-Crash Care Through EMS Innovation and Signal Preemption
Budget Narrative and Project Description
Project Overview and Alignment with SS4A Merit Criteria The City of Santa Cruz proposes a Planning and Demonstration project to pilot two integrated strategies designed to improve post-crash care, reduce emergency response times, and ultimately decrease roadway fatalities and serious injuries:

1. Deployment of a smaller, dedicated medical response vehicle for non-fire emergency medical calls; and

2. Implementation of a cloud-based emergency vehicle signal preemption system integrated with the City’s Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) platform.

Safety Need and Planning Context
The City of Santa Cruz is in the final stages of completing its SS4A Safety Action Plan, which identifies post-crash care and emergency medical response as critical components in improving survivability outcomes. Analysis of the City’s High Injury Network (HIN) indicates that severe and fatal collisions are concentrated along key corridors where rapid EMS access is essential.

Santa Cruz County faces a significant structural challenge: the absence of a designated trauma center. Patients suffering from severe crash-related injuries must either be transported to Dominican Hospital for initial stabilization or transferred out of county via ground or air transport to trauma facilities. These additional steps introduce delays that can critically impact survivability, particularly in cases where minutes are determinative.

National research consistently demonstrates that rapid EMS response and timely access to definitive care are among the most significant predictors of survival following severe injury.

Proposed Demonstration Activities

1. Cloud-Based Emergency Vehicle Signal Preemption Pilot

10.4 City of Santa Cruz
FY 2026 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Application Planning and Demonstration Grant The City currently utilizes an optical-based preemption system (Opticom) that triggers traffic signals to turn green as emergency vehicles approach intersections. While effective in limited contexts, this system operates on line-of-sight detection and does not optimize routes dynamically.

The proposed cloud-based preemption system represents a significant advancement. By integrating directly with the City’s CAD system and leveraging GPS data from emergency vehicles, the system will:
• Activate signal preemption along the entire response route in real time; • Prioritize corridors on the High Injury Network and key hospital access routes; • Reduce intersection delay and improve responder safety; and • Enable data collection on travel time savings and system performance.

This pilot will evaluate whether cloud-based preemption yields measurable improvements in response times compared to the existing system, with particular attention to high-risk corridors and peak congestion periods.

2. Smaller Medical Response Vehicle Pilot
Currently, the Santa Cruz Fire Department deploys full fire engines to all emergency calls, including non-fire medical incidents. Each engine requires a minimum staffing level of three personnel, which limits flexibility and contributes to resource strain.

The proposed pilot will deploy a smaller medical response vehicle—already procured by the City—to respond to non-fire medical calls, including traffic collisions. This vehicle will:
• Operate with a minimum staffing level of two personnel; • Provide faster, more agile response in dense or congested areas; • Allow fire engines to remain available for fire suppression and complex incidents; and • Improve overall system efficiency and coverage.

This right-sized response model is expected to reduce dispatch-to-arrival times, increase unit availability, and enhance the City’s ability to meet standards of coverage across all incident types.

Expected Outcomes and Evaluation Plan
The project includes a robust performance measurement framework aligned with SS4A evaluation expectations. The City will collect and analyze both quantitative and qualitative data to assess effectiveness, including:
• Emergency response times (dispatch-to-arrival) before and after implementation; • Travel time through signalized corridors with and without preemption; • Number and type of calls responded to by the medical response vehicle; • Reduction in fire engine deployments for non-fire incidents (“engine removals”);

10.5 City of Santa Cruz
FY 2026 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Application Planning and Demonstration Grant • Unit Hour Utilization (UHU) and system workload distribution; • Compliance with standards of coverage; and
• Patient outcome indicators where available (e.g., time to definitive care).

The evaluation will also include feedback from first responders regarding operational effectiveness, safety, and usability of the new systems.

Innovation, Equity, and Scalability
This project reflects a cost-effective and scalable approach to improving roadway safety outcomes without requiring major infrastructure expansion. By leveraging existing assets (CAD systems, GPS data, and a pre-purchased response vehicle), the City maximizes return on investment while minimizing implementation barriers.

The focus on High Injury Network corridors ensures that benefits are directed toward locations with the greatest safety risks, which often overlap with areas serving vulnerable populations, including older adults, pedestrians, and lower-income residents who rely on non-vehicle transportation.

Both pilot components are highly replicable. Cloud-based signal preemption systems can be deployed incrementally across jurisdictions, and smaller medical response vehicles offer a flexible model adaptable to communities of varying sizes and resource levels.

Project Readiness and Capacity
The City of Santa Cruz is well-positioned to implement this project. The Fire Department has already acquired the medical response vehicle, and interdepartmental coordination between Fire, Police, Public Works, and Information Technology teams is established through the SS4A planning process.

The primary barrier to deployment is the development of a sustainable staffing and operational model for the new response unit, which this grant will help establish and evaluate. Similarly, the City has the technical foundation to integrate cloud-based preemption with existing systems, requiring only targeted investment and pilot implementation.

Conclusion
By improving the speed and efficiency of emergency medical response, this project directly addresses a critical gap in the Safe System Approach: post-crash care. The proposed pilots offer practical, data-driven solutions with the potential to significantly improve survivability outcomes in Santa Cruz and serve as a model for jurisdictions nationwide.

The City of Santa Cruz respectfully requests SS4A funding to implement and evaluate these innovative strategies to save lives and strengthen roadway safety.

10.6 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/06/2026
AGENDA OF: 08/25/2026
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
SUBJECT: HSIP 11 and 12 – Unsignalized Crossing Improvement Project (c402517 and c402610) (PW)
LOCATION: Districts 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to:
1) Adopt a resolution to approve the plans and specifications for the HSIP 11 and 12 – Unsignalized Crossing Improvement Project pursuant to Government Code Section 830.6; 2) Authorize staff to advertise for bids and award the contract. The City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to execute the contract in a form approved by the City Attorney, as authorized by Resolution No. NS-27,563. The Director of Public Works or City Engineer is authorized to execute change orders within the approved project budget; and 3) Find the improvements categorically exempt from CEQA under CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) and Section 15304 (Minor Alterations to Land).

BACKGROUND: The Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) is a core federal-aid grant program to state agencies for the purpose of achieving a significant reduction in fatalities and serious injuries on all public roads. HSIP is administered by California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and focuses on infrastructure projects with proven safety countermeasures and nationally recognized crash reduction factors (CRFs). The program requires jurisdictions to have an approved Local Roadway Safety Plan, which the City of Santa Cruz (City) adopted on May 25, 2021. City Council (Council) authorized applying for and appropriating funding from Caltrans HSIP Cycle 11 on September 13, 2022 and Cycle 12 on October 22, 2024. The City was awarded $249,120 for HSIP Cycle 11 to improve five intersections and $349,110 for HSIP Cycle 12 to improve two intersections.

Following a review of project scopes, sequencing, and constructability, staff determined that consolidating the two projects into a single contract would reduce construction costs and minimize overall project duration.

11.1 On April 20, 2026, the Transportation and Public Works Commission recommended the City Council approve the HSIP 11 and 12 – Unsignalized Crossing Improvement Project (Project) and authorize staff to advertise for bids.

DISCUSSION: Staff have been making a concerted effort to improve safety citywide for all roadway users. A review of citywide crash data from the Local Roadway Safety Plan (LRSP) showed a pattern of crash concentrations surrounding intersections.

The focus of the Project is improving pedestrian safety at non-signalized intersections. The selected locations for the Project have a high volume of pedestrians due to their proximity to various activity centers or connectivity to other active transportation infrastructure, such as schools, transit routes and trails.

The HSIP Project Cycle 11 will improve the following five (5) pedestrian crossing locations:
 Delaware Avenue and Bethany Curve: This location is along a popular bicycle and pedestrian route and connects to a linear park.
 Laurel Street and Blackburn Street: This high-volume corridor serves a high frequency transit stop, a high school, and a high-density neighborhood.  King Street and Peyton Street: This location is adjacent to a middle school where approximately 30% of students bike to school.
 Broadway and Pennsylvania Avenue: This location is along a popular bicycle and pedestrian route and connects to transit stops and a nearby commercial corridor with retail shops and restaurants.
 Seabright Avenue and Logan Street: This location is along a popular bicycle and pedestrian route and serves a high pedestrian use commercial corridor.

The HSIP Project Cycle 12 will improve the following two (2) pedestrian crossing locations:
 High Street and Cardiff Place: This location serves as a connection point to UCSC and is in proximity to Westlake Elementary.
 Soquel Avenue and Poplar Avenue: This intersection is one of the most complex in the city, sometimes referred to as “the weave” due to the three intersecting arterials and required travel pattern to negotiate. This intersection connects directly to Branciforte Middle School and is heavily utilized by students walking and biking to school.

Additionally, this intersection connects a neighborhood commercial district, including two grocery stores, a thrift store, a gym, pharmacy, and multiple restaurants.

Each crossing will include one or more safety countermeasures. The estimated crash reductions for those countermeasures are as follows:
 Continental Crosswalk: 40% crash reduction
 Pedestrian Crossing Warning Signs: 15% crash reduction  RRFB: 35% crash reduction
These crash reduction estimates are taken from the Crash Modification Factors Clearinghouse, which gathers publicized data of the safety effects of an implemented countermeasure. With the completion of these Project improvements, the RRFBs in tandem with other crossing improvements will help reduce the risk of crashes for pedestrians and bicyclists.

11.2 Following the April 20, 2026 Transportation and Public Works Commission meeting, staff revised the plans to further improve the following intersections:
 King Street and Peyton Street: Added concrete and painted crossing island  Broadway and Pennsylvania Avenue: Added concrete curb extensions at the northeast and southwest corners of the intersection
 Seabright Avenue and Logan Street: Added concrete curb extension at the southwest corner of the intersection
 High Street and Cardiff Place: Relocated crosswalk to the west side of the intersection and added crossing islands
These improvements are intended to increase pedestrian safety by increasing the available stopping sight distance and reducing crossing distances at intersections.

All improvements are designed to meet the City’s Traffic Calming Guidelines, CA MUTCD, Federal Highway Administration’s Guide for Improving Pedestrian Safety at Uncontrolled Crossing Locations, National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO) Urban Street and Bike Design Guides, and Caltrans Highway Design Manual (HDM).

Project staff will work with adjacent property owners to minimize construction impacts. If the Council approves these projects, staff anticipates construction would begin in Fall 2026.

Plans and specifications for the project can be found online at:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/Government/City-Departments/Public-Works/Projects . Click on “HSIP 11 and 12 – Unsignalized Crossing Improvement Project”.

A direct link to the project plans, dated 7/21/2026 and identified by Vault No. 9231, is here:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/pw/documents/transportation/hsip1112-finalplans-1.pdf A direct link to the Invitation for Bids, Specifications, and Contract documents, with responses currently due September 24, 2026, is here:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/pw/documents/transportation/hsip1112-finalspecs-1.pdf Staff recommends that the Council adopt the attached resolution, which is intended to confirm the Council’s approval of the project design, plans, and specifications, and it is also intended to give the City the best chance of being able to assert design immunity later, if necessary. (See Govt. Code § 830.6.) If the Council chooses to adopt the proposed resolution, it would become effective immediately.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: This project consists minor changes to existing right-of-way; involves negligible or no expansion of existing use; and does not involve the removal of healthy, mature, or scenic trees. Thus, staff has preliminarily determined that the project is exempt from CEQA under CEQA Guidelines:

Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) and Section 15304 (Minor Alterations to Land). None of the exceptions to exemptions listed in Section 15300.2 apply.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): The proposed Unsignalized Crossing Improvement projects are in alignment with and will assist in implementing components of the General Plan,

11.3 Active Transportation Plan, Vision Zero and Health in all Policies. The General Plan calls for a “citywide interconnected system of safe, inviting, and accessible pedestrian ways and bikeways” (Goal M4). Vision Zero is a policy that supports the elimination of all traffic fatalities and severe injuries and supports increasing safe, healthy and equitable mobility for all. This project promotes Health and Wellness by assisting with slowing speeds of cars in neighborhoods and reducing injuries from collisions.

FISCAL IMPACT:

1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: No

2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: No

3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: No FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: The project will cost approximately $600,000, which 90% is funded through the HSIP Cycle 11 and 12 grants and 10% local match from Gas Tax. There is no impact to the General Fund.

Prepared By:

Dan Estranero
Associate Professional
Engineer
Submitted By:

Nathan Nguyen, P.E.

Director of Public Works
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. RESOLUTION - DESIGN IMMUNITY.DOCX
Direct link to project plans:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/pw/documents/transportation/hsip1112-finalplans-1.pdf Direct link to Invitation for Bids, Specifications, and Contract documents:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/pw/documents/transportation/hsip1112-finalspecs-1.pdf

11.4 RESOLUTION NO. NS-XX,XXX

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ APPROVING

THE DESIGN, PLANS, AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE HSIP 11 AND 12 UNSIGNALIZED CROSSING IMPROVEMENT PROJECT, PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 830.6.

The City Council of the City of Santa Cruz does resolve as follows:

SECTION 1: The City Council finds and declares as follows:

A. City staff has designed and prepared the plans for the West Cliff Path Realignment Project.

B. The City Engineer has approved the completed design and plans for the Project.

SECTION 2: Design; Authorization.

A. The City Council approves the design, plans, and specification for the Project.

B. The approved Plans and specifications for the project can be found online at:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/Government/City-Departments/Public-Works/Projects . Click on “HSIP 11 and 12 – Unsignalized Crossing Improvement Project”.

C. A direct link to the approved project plans, dated 7/21/2026 and identified by Vault No. 9231, is here:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/pw/documents/transportation/hsip1112- final-plans-1.pdf .

D. A direct link to the approved Invitation for Bids, Specifications, and Contract documents, with responses currently due September 24, 2026, is here:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/pw/documents/transportation/hsip1112- final-specs-1.pdf .

E. The design approval set forth in this Resolution occurred before actual work on the Project construction commenced.

F. The approval granted by this Resolution conforms with the City's General Plan.

G. The City Engineer, or designee, is authorized to act on the City's behalf in approving any revised design, plans, or specifications, or any alterations or modifications of the design, plans, and specifications approved by this Resolution.

H. The approval and authorization granted by this Resolution is intended to avail the City of the immunities set forth in Government Code § 830.6.

SECTION 3: The City Clerk is directed to certify the adoption of this Resolution.

11.5 RESOLUTION NO. NS-XX,XXX
SECTION 4: This Resolution will become effective immediately upon adoption.

PASSED AND ADOPTED this 25th day of August, 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

DISQUALIFIED:

APPROVED: __________________________
Fred Keeley, Mayor
ATTEST: ___________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator

11.6 Brittany Inclan
From: Mary Hart <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, August 17, 2026 9:30 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Unsignalized Crosswalk Safety Project
To Whom It May Concern:

I fully support the above proposal coming up for approval by the City Council. Specifically, the pedestrian crossing at Seabright and Logan would greatly benefit from a flashing light. There are several restaurants there and a nearby bus stop. It has a high density of pedestrian traffic. Due to the Murray bridge closure, the increased traffic through the area has created a hazard. And drivers don’t adhere to the speed limit - at all.

I won’t be able to attend the council meeting, so this is my statement.

Regards,
Mary Hart
708 Frederick St. 303
Santa Cruz, Ca 95062
Sent from my iPhone

11.7 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/06/2026
AGENDA OF: 08/25/2026
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
SUBJECT: West Cliff Drive Path Realignment – Approve Plans and Specifications (m400819) (PW)
LOCATION: District 6
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to:
1) Adopt a resolution to approve the design, Plans and Specifications for the West Cliff Drive Path Realignment Project (m400819);
2) Authorize staff to advertise for bids and award the contract. The City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to execute the contract in a form approved by the City Attorney, and as authorized by Resolution No. NS-27,563. The Director of Public Works is authorized to execute change orders within the approved project budget; and
3) Adopt a CEQA finding of categorical exemption pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities), Section 15302 (Replacement or Reconstruction), and Section 15304 (Minor Alterations to Land).

BACKGROUND: Over the years, wave action from storm events has compromised the West Cliff Drive Path at two locations. Site 1 is up coast from Lighthouse point and Site 2 is across from Getchell Street. At Site 1, the wave runup damaged the seawall cap and created a dangerous situation for the public. The wave action moved rip-rap, eroded the landscaped area, and pushed debris onto the path and the street. Concrete blocks have been deployed temporarily at this location. Site 2 has experienced significant erosion of the cliff, coming within 3 feet of the existing path. This erosion has been primarily caused by wave action and will continue to present an ongoing hazard.

DISCUSSION: At Site 1, the proposed scope of the Project will abandon the path closest to the seawall, improve the larger path adjacent to the road, provide new fencing and native droughttolerant landscaping, and relocate benches and monuments (closer to the Lighthouse). At Site 2, the proposed scope of the Project will realign the path away from the bluff edge and place it adjacent to the road, consistent with the rest of the path. It will remove a small perpendicular parking lot (8 spaces) and relocate a bench and refuse bin. There is lightly used street parking available across the street.

12.1 A coastal development permit, design permit, and slope variance are scheduled for consideration at the August 20, 2026 Planning Commission meeting and anticipated to be issued before the proposed Project is awarded to a contractor for construction. Archeologist and Geologic investigations have been completed for the Project as required. The plans and specifications address the report’s recommendations.

Schedule: The Project will be bid in late summer 2026 with the goal of finishing construction before end of 2026.

Cost: The engineer’s estimate including contingency is $497,211 for both sites.

Plans and specifications can be found online at: https://www.santacruzca.gov/Government/CityDepartments/Public-Works/Projects The Project’s design and plan, dated 4/8/2026, can be accessed by clicking on a .pdf entitled “Project Overview” and can be directly accessed by clicking this link:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/pw/documents/engineering/west-cliff-path-realignment.pdf The Project’s Invitations for Bids, Specifications and Contract Documents, with bid opening set for September 22, 2026 at 2:00 PM, can be accessed by clicking on a .pdf entitled “Invitation for Bids, Specifications, and Contract Documents” and can be directly accessed by clicking this link:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/pw/documents/engineering/west-cliff-dr-pathrealignment-final-8.10.26.pdf CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: The staff recommendations relate to the repair and safety improvements for an existing multi-use path, involving no expansion of existing use. The improved path will have substantially the same purpose and capacity as the existing path. The proposed project will not involve the removal of any healthy, mature, or scenic trees. This proposed Council action is therefore exempt from CEQA under CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities); Section 15302 (Replacement and Reconstruction); and Section 15304 (Minor Alterations to Land). None of the exceptions to exemptions stated in 14 CCR 15300.2 apply in this instance.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): This project aligns with the City’s HiAP Core Condition, A Safe and Just Community, by increasing safety for all path users and accessibility for people with disabilities. In addition, the project aligns with the General Plan, Climate Action Plan, and Transportation Plan. The General Plan calls for a “citywide interconnected system of safe, inviting, and accessible pedestrian pathways and bikeways” The Climate Action Plan 2030 (CAP 2030) targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 40% from 1990 levels by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2035 necessitate addressing the 70% of emissions citywide that are attributable to transportation This project improves conditions for active transportation options, such as biking and walking, thus contributing to the achievement of relevant CAP 2030 measures and overall targets.

12.2 FISCAL IMPACT:

1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: No

2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: No

3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: No FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: Funds are available in Capital Project (m400819). The Project is funded by a State of California Natural Resources Agency Grant Agreement and RSTPX funds.

Prepared By:

Christophe Schneiter
Technical and Management
Assistant
Submitted By:

Nathan Nguyen, P.E.

Director of Public Works
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. RESOLUTION.DOCX

12.3 RESOLUTION NO. NS-XX,XXX

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ APPROVING

THE DESIGN, PLANS, AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR

THE WEST CLIFF DRIVE PATH REALIGNMENT PROJECT
The City Council of the City of Santa Cruz does resolve as follows:

SECTION 1: The City Council finds and declares as follows:

A. City staff has designed and prepared the plans for the West Cliff Dr. Path Realignment Project.

B. The City Engineer has approved the completed design and plans for the Project and that construction of the Project may begin.

SECTION 2: Authorization.

A. The City Council approves the design, plans, and specifications for the Project, which can be found online at: https://www.santacruzca.gov/Government/City-Departments/PublicWorks/Projects B. The approved design, plans, and specifications, dated 4/8/2026, can be accessed by clicking on a .pdf entitled “Project Overview” and can be directly accessed by clicking this link: https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/pw/documents/engineering/westcliff-path-re-alignment.pdf C. The approved Invitations for Bids, Specifications and Contract Documents, with bid opening set for September 22, 2026 at 2:00 PM, can be accessed by clicking on a .pdf entitled “Invitation for Bids, Specifications, and Contract Documents” and can be directly accessed by clicking this
link: https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/pw/documents/engineering/westcliff-dr-path-realignment-final-8.10.26.pdf D. The design approval set forth in this Resolution occurred before actual work on the Project construction commenced.

E. The approval granted by this Resolution conforms with the City's General Plan.

F. The City Engineer, or designee, is authorized to act on the City's behalf in approving any revised design, plans, or specifications, or any alterations or modifications of the design and plans approved by this Resolution.

G. The approval and authorization granted by this Resolution is intended to avail the City of the immunities set forth in Government Code § 830.6.

12.4 RESOLUTION NO. NS-XX,XXX
SECTION 3: The City Clerk is directed to certify the adoption of this Resolution.

SECTION 4: This Resolution will become effective immediately upon adoption.

PASSED AND ADOPTED this XX day of XX, 20XX, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

DISQUALIFIED:

APPROVED: __________________________
Fred Keeley, Mayor
ATTEST: ___________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator

12.5 West Cliff Path Realignment Project
Santa Cruz City Council
August 25, 2026

12.6 Credit: John Chapman
Getchell's
Credit: Shmuel Thaler Santa Cruz Sentinel

12.7 Getchell's

12.8 Getchell’s-Westbound Detour 10/26 – 12/26

12.9 Average Beach Widths

12.10 Lighthouse Point/Its Beach Viewing Area
@Josh B put phot
here of concrete
blocks surrounding
planting area

12.11 Lighthouse Point/Its Beach Overlook

12.12 Summary
• Aligns with 50-year vision and
5-year roadmap
• No Armoring
• Funded through State Grant
• Schedule: End of 2026

12.13 Lighthouse Point Hazard Study Update
• The two sea caves are
separated by approximately 20
feet of bedrock.
• The sea caves are about 40
feet away from the lighthouse.
• Sea caves do not
pose immediate risk to
Lighthouse, paths or other
infrastructure.

12.14 Recommendation
Motion to:
• Approve the Plans and Specifications for the West Cliff Drive Path Realignment Project (m401402), authorize staff to advertise for bids, and award the contract.

The City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to execute the contract in a form approved by the City Attorney, and as authorized by Resolution No. NS27,563. The Director of Public Works is authorized to execute change orders within the approved project budget and
• Adopt a resolution to approve the plans and specifications for the West Cliff Drive Path Realignment Project pursuant to Government Code Section 830.6 • Adopt a CEQA finding of categorical exemption pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 1501 (Existing Facilities and Section 15302 (Replacement or Reconstruction

12.15 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/06/2026
AGENDA OF: 08/25/2026
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
SUBJECT: Bay Drive Protected Bike Lanes and Pedestrian Path Project - Public Access Trail Easement Deed and Certificate of Acceptance (c402304) (PW)
LOCATION: Districts 3, 4, 5, and 6
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to:
1) Adopt a resolution to approve the design and plans for the Bay Street at Escalona Drive Pilot Plan, and direct staff to implement the approved pilot plan, which restricts through movements on Escalona Drive across Bay Street/Drive while maintaining the southbound left turn from Bay Street to eastbound Escalona Drive;
2) Confirm design approach for the future Complete Streets project to use mountable medians on Bay Street at Toledo Street and Anita Street; and
3) Adopt a resolution accepting a permanent public access trail easement for public use from Santa Cruz City Schools over a portion of real property (APN 004-441-24) required for the construction of the Bay Drive Protected Bike Lanes and Pedestrian Path Project and authorizing and directing the City Manager to execute the corresponding deed and Certificate of Acceptance.

BACKGROUND: Through the Local Roadway Safety Plan (LRSP), Active Transportation Plan (ATP), and underway Safety Action Plan (SAP), the Bay Corridor has been identified as a priority location for complete street improvements. The 2017 ATP identified this corridor as a “Top Ten” priority location, and the LRSP identified the Bay Corridor as a priority corridor for roadway safety improvements in consideration of the corridor’s collision history. The goal of the Bay Corridor improvements is to construct complete streets improvements along the entire corridor, enhancing safety and mobility for all roadway users and increasing connectivity and access to schools, parks, housing, and other multimodal facilities.

The planning work of the ATP and LRSP was instrumental in the City of Santa Cruz (City) securing funding to deliver the Bay Corridor Project. Due to the size of the project, it is being delivered in phases. The first phase, from Escalona Drive to Nobel Drive, was completed in early 2026. The next phase, from California Street to Escalona Drive and Nobel Drive to High Street,

13.1 is currently in design. The final phase, from California Street to West Cliff Drive, will be initiated at a future date.

The City is also developing the SAP, a roadway safety analysis and implementation plan to work towards the adopted City Vision Zero goal of zero serious injuries and fatalities on roadways.

The safety analysis indicates the portions of the Bay Corridor currently in design development are in the top 20% of roadways in the city for serious injury and fatality collisions.

In November 2023, staff brought preliminary concept plans for the Bay Corridor from California Street to Mission Street to the Transportation and Public Works Commission (TPWC) for review. The concept presented included a two-way separated bike lane on the Bay View frontage. The TPWC provided direction to staff to consider what additional safety measures could be added, including pursuing speed reduction tools, estimating the cost of a sidewalk level bike lane the entire length of the segment, considering additional treatments for the Bay Street/Seaside Street intersection, and consultation with Caltrans to modify the Mission Street intersection to allow for bicycle lane widening.

Staff subsequently secured additional funding to complete design of the Bay Corridor Complete Streets and executed a contract with Mark Thomas Consultants. A public open house was hosted on January 22, 2025 at Bay View Elementary to solicit feedback. The meeting was noticed via direct postcard mailings to owners and occupants within 300 feet of Bay Street, physical postings along the corridor, a media push, social media postings, and promotion by Bay View Elementary School. The Open House was well attended with an estimated 80 people providing detailed feedback. The feedback received focused on concern about parking loss, mixed feelings on leftturning restrictions, appreciation for physical separation of bicycle facilities, and questions about proposed King Street and Mission Street intersection treatments.

On February 24, 2025, the TPWC again reviewed the Bay Corridor concept designs and the feedback gathered from the January 22 Open House. TPWC was largely supportive of the overall project, with specific discussion about the importance of making the corridor work well for elementary and middle school aged youth. While the Commission was overall supportive of the design treatments, they requested staff explore a design alternative that included single direction bike lanes on each side of the roadway for review at the March Transportation and Public Works Commission Open House.

Staff worked with Mark Thomas to identify a design alternative for single direction bike lanes on each side of the road that maintains the highest level of separation from vehicles possible within the right of way. At the March 24, 2025 Transportation and Public Works Commission Open House, staff presented both the one-way and bi-directional concepts. Both were well received, with attendees debating and discussing the merits of each for themselves and their community.

After the March 2025 TPWC meeting, staff provided an update on the project to City Council on April 22, 2025. At this meeting, City Council confirmed a series of design decisions for the Bay Corridor including:
 A bidirectional separated bike facility on the Bay View Elementary side of the roadway from California Street to King Street, and
 Transitioning to one way separated bike lanes from King Street to High Street. At the meeting, staff identified left turn conflicts across the bidirectional separated bike lane as a

13.2 design conflict and committed to continue to evaluate access management to and from side streets between Redwood Street and Anita Street.

At that meeting, City Council also directed the City Manager, or designee, to negotiate with Santa Cruz City Schools District (District) to acquire property at Bayview Elementary School (APN 004-441-24) for the Bay Drive Protected Bike Lanes and Pedestrian Path Project. This additional right of way enables the project to proceed along the Bay View Elementary frontage with separated bike and pedestrian facilities.

This report includes three actions:
1) A near-term, quick-build intervention at the intersection of Bay Street and Escalona Drive (the Bay Street at Escalona Drive Pilot Plan),
2) Confirmation of intersection treatments for the Bay intersections with Anita Street and Toledo Street in the overall upcoming capital project, and 3) Finalizing the right of way process for the frontage of Bay View Elementary by obtaining a permanent easement covering approximately 2,125 square feet of District’s property.

All elements of this proposal are aligned with the goals of Vision Zero. Eliminating serious injuries and fatalities on roadways is a priority for the City. The elements of this report recognize this priority and propose data driven interventions.

DISCUSSION: The Bay Corridor Complete Streets project design effort is underway. The project is being delivered in multiple phases. The first phase, from Escalona Drive to Nobel Drive, was completed in early 2026. The current phase, from California Street to Escalona Drive and from Nobel Drive to High Street, is currently in design. Final designs for the current phase are anticipated in early 2027, and construction could begin in Summer 2027. The final phase, from West Cliff Drive to California Street, will be implemented at a future undetermined date.

As the design process has proceeded with the current phase, various design questions require City Council direction to proceed. Three of those elements are presented below:

Bay Street and Escalona Drive Pilot:

Bay Street at Escalona Drive is one of the top ten intersection collision locations in the City.

Through this project, staff heard from community members over the years with a desire for improvements to this location. Key concerns relate to roadway speed, concerns with crossing, and a desire for additional traffic enforcement. To date, roadway design changes have been installed on Bay Street between Escalona Drive and Nobel Drive to reduce the travel lanes from two to one and to provide separated space for people walking and biking with a goal to reduce speed and improve safety. A rectangular rapid beacon has been added at the Bay Street/Escalona Drive intersection as a warning device for people driving to be aware of people crossing the street.

Between 2020 and 2025, there were eight reported collisions at the Bay Street/Escalona Drive intersection. Of these collisions, six were broadside, one was a sideswipe, and one was a rear end. The majority of these collisions involved vehicles crossing Bay Street, from one side of Escalona Drive to the other.

Staff developed pilot designs with median closures based on the reported crash patterns.

Installing a median at this location would prohibit vehicles from crossing Bay from one side of

13.3 Escalona Drive, eliminating the movement that is involved in the majority of crashes. According to the Local Roadway Safety Manual, this intervention has a collision reduction factor of 50%.

At the June 2026 TPWC meeting, staff presented Option 1 to limit the intersection to right in/right out only, eliminating the left turn from downhill Bay Street to Escalona Drive. There was robust public comment on the topic, with key concerns relating to speed and spillover traffic to other neighborhood streets. Staff evaluated these concerns and determined that the number of vehicles that could spill over into the neighborhood during peak hour was over 270, creating additional unanticipated issues for surrounding streets. TPWC supported the staff recommendation, but requested additional exploration of spillover traffic, stop signs, and speed.

Due to the collision pattern and community concern, a signal warrant analysis was completed for Escalona Drive as part of the Bay Corridor Complete Streets project. That analysis showed that the intersection did not meet established design criteria (warrants) for installation of a traffic signal. Based on feedback at TPWC, staff conducted an all-way stop sign warrant and traffic operations analysis. The stop sign warrant was not met due to the significantly higher traffic on Bay Street than Escalona Drive. The operations analysis indicated the inbound drivers would experience 2.5 minutes of additional delay during the weekday afternoon peak hour. To compensate for that increase in delay, drivers would likely try another route, adding cut-through traffic to the neighborhood. In those terms, 600 vehicles would need to divert from Bay Street to maintain existing travel times. Adding an all-way stop sign at the intersection would be expected to divert more traffic into the neighborhood than eliminating the southbound left turn.

After the TPWC meeting, staff utilized the feedback to further develop the two options included below, both of which address the primary collision pattern.  Escalona Pilot Option 1: This is the same option presented to TPWC. Option 1 would extend the existing median through the intersection, prohibiting through movements and limiting access to only right turn in/right turn out from Bay Street to Escalona Drive. Left turns would be eliminated from southbound Bay Street to eastbound Escalona Drive.

Bike and pedestrian access would be maintained across Escalona Drive. The General Plan buildout transportation scenarios call for modifying this intersection to right turn in/right turn out only to address network delay.
 Escalona Pilot Option 2 (recommended): The second option would install a median that would maintain the left hand turn from downhill Bay Street to eastbound Escalona Drive, while eliminating the through movement from Escalona Drive to Escalona Drive across Bay Street. This option would better address concerns of proximate streets about spillover traffic from the left turn to Escalona Drive.

Based on feedback received at TPWC, both options include a speed feedback sign, transverse rumble strips, and additional signage to reinforce the 25MPH speed limit on Bay Street south of Escalona Drive. Option 1 is the The Escalona Pilot and is included as an attachment.Option 2 is the Bay Street at Escalona Drive Pilot Design, dated 7/2/2026 and 7/15/2026, and can be found online at:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/Government/City-Departments/Public-Works/Projects or via this direct link: https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/pw/documents/transportation/baystreet-at-escalona-drive-pilot-design.pdf .

13.4 Based upon the collision pattern, analysis, and community feedback, staff recommends Escalona Pilot Option 2, which allows the southbound left from Bay Street to eastbound Escalona Drive.

The Bay Street at Escalona Drive Pilot Design and attached Resolution would approve this effort. If approved, the pilot would be installed at the end of the summer, 2027, and staff will conduct follow-up traffic counts within six months to monitor this change. The pilot will be reviewed, evaluated, and designed into the final Bay Corridor project. Key elements of the evaluation will be collisions and traffic volumes.

The attached proposed resolution confirms the City Council’s approval of the Bay Street at Escalona Drive Pilot Design and is also intended to give the City the best chance of being able to assert design immunity, if needed. (See Govt. Code section 830.6.) Should City Council take action to adopt this resolution, it would become effective immediately.

Future Intersection Changes at Anita Street and Toledo Street:

Looking ahead to the Bay Corridor capital project, staff explored ways to reduce turning conflicts across the bidirectional bike lanes.

With bidirectional separated bike lanes, there may be conflicts between people cyclists in the bike facility and cars turning across the bike facility. During the design phase of the Bay Corridor Complete Streets project, staff explored various approaches to restrict turning movements in order to minimize conflicts among users. In the 10% concept plans presented to TPWC and City Council, center medians were shown on Bay Street at Anita Street and Toledo Street to restrict left turning movements across the bike facility.

In considering mobility options, staff looked at additional options for circulation changes in the Olive/Toledo/Anita neighborhood. These included possible changes to circulation on Olive Street and full or partial closures at Bay/Anita and Bay/Toledo to minimize or eliminate turning movements across the bike facility on Bay Street. Staff met with the neighborhood twice during the design alternatives process to review and understand neighborhood priorities and concerns.

Staff brought a design approach that was recommended by TPWC to only install a median at Toledo Street, with signage at Anita Street restricting left turns during certain hours. With this, the portion of Olive Street between Toledo Street and Anita Street would have been returned to two-way traffic.

After the TPWC meeting, staff continued to engage with the neighborhood. Neighbors communicated that they would prefer having medians at both Anita Street and Toledo Street and maintaining Olive Street as one-way for the entire length. This option is acceptable to staff. The recommendation in this report is to install mountable medians on Bay Street at the intersections of Anita Street and Toledo Street. These medians would restrict access to Anita Street and Toledo Street to right in/right out from Bay Street, and no full or partial closures will be installed where Anita Street and Toledo Street intersect with Bay Street. Olive Street would be unchanged and remain a one-way street.

If the City Council agrees with this design approach, staff will incorporate that direction into the City’s Complete Streets project.

Santa Cruz City Schools Right-Of-Way:

At the April 22, 2025 City Council meeting, Council directed the City Manager, or designee, to negotiate with Santa Cruz City Schools District (“District”) to acquire property at Bayview

13.5 Elementary School (APN 004-441-24) for the Bay Drive Protected Bike Lanes and Pedestrian Path project. The additional space is needed to provide the bidirectional separated bike facility and separate pedestrian space, providing a direct connection to Bay View Elementary School.

The land subject to the easement is owned by the District. Both City and District staff have been in ongoing collaboration about the Bay Drive Protected Bike Lanes and Pedestrian Path project, and the positive benefits for school community access and mobility. At its June 10, 2026, meeting, the District’s Board of Education approved the attached Public Access Trail Easement Deed, granting a permanent public access trail easement for public use, including the right to ingress and egress, to construct, inspect, maintain, and use for public purposes. Staff now recommends that City Council accept this easement and authorize the City Manager to execute the corresponding deed and Certificate of Acceptance so the City may complete construction of the Bay Drive Protected Bike Lanes and Pedestrian Path Project. The Caltrans project will then need an easement from the City to construct their portion of the intersection.

Conclusion:

With City Council approval, the quick build pilot interventions at Bay/Escalona would be installed at the end of summer, with a goal of completion prior to University of California at Santa Cruz’s Fall quarter.

The median treatments on Bay Street at Toledo Street and Anita Street would be implemented as part of the overall Complete Streets project, with a goal if implementation in the summer 2027.

The right of way documentation would be executed and filed, and the right of way process would be complete. This is a critical path step for the project.

These projects all support the City’s Vision Zero goal of eliminating serious injuries and fatalities on our roadways by 2030. The overall project uses the Safe Systems approach to achieve roadway safety for all users.

Bay Street at Escalona Drive Pilot Design direct link:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/pw/documents/transportation/bay-street-atescalona-drive-pilot-design.pdf CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: At its meeting on April 22, 2025, the City Council approved the following CEQA exemptions for the Bay Drive Protected Bike Lanes and Pedestrian Path Project: Pub. Resources Code § 21080.25(b)(1) (pedestrian and bicycle facilities that improve safety access or mobility); Class 1 (Existing Facilities) categorical exemption (14 CCR § 15301); Class 4 (Minor Alterations) categorical exemption (14 CCR § 15304); and Common Sense Exemption (14 CCR § 15061). A Notice of Exemption was filed with the California State Office of Planning and Research and the Santa Cruz County Clerk on February 17, 2026.

13.6 HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): This project promotes the following Health in All Policies Conditions: Health and Wellness and Heathy Environments. The proposed project is in alignment with the City’s HiAP initiative by supporting Health and Wellness and Healthy Environments. Providing facilities for people to safely walk and bike supports the community having healthy options for travel, aids our climate goals, and supports healthy environments.

Implementing the recommendations in this report support the City’s commitment to Vision Zero.

Bay Corridor is identified as a Priority Corridor in the Local Roadway Safety Plan.

FISCAL IMPACT:

1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: No

2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: No

3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: No FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: The District agreed to provide this easement in exchange for reimbursement of costs related to its review and approval of the deed. The total for this was $2,287.60 and is available in project budget. The pilot project will be funded with operations funds from the Public Works Transportation Division and staff time from the Streets Division.

Prepared By:

Claire Gallogly
Principal Transportation
Planner
Submitted By:

Nathan Nguyen, P.E.

Director of Public Works
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. RESOLUTION – BAY VIEW EASEMENT ACQUISITION.DOCX

2. RESOLUTION – DESIGN IMMUNITY.DOCX

3. APRIL 22, 2025 COUNCIL REPORT.PDF

4. PUBLIC ACCESS TRAIL EASEMENT DEED AND CERTIFICATE OF ACCEPTANCE (1).PDF

5. FIGURE 1 – BAY STREET AT ESCALONA FULL CLOSURE CONCEPT.PDF

6. FIGURE 2 – BAY STREET AT ANITA TOLEDO CIRCULATION.PDF Bay Street at Escalona Drive Pilot Design direct link:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/pw/documents/transportation/bay-street-atescalona-drive-pilot-design.pdf

13.7 RESOLUTION NO. NSRESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ

ACCEPTING A PERMANENT PUBLIC ACCESS TRAIL EASEMENT FOR PUBLIC

USE FROM SANTA CRUZ CITY SCHOOLS OVER A PORTION OF REAL PROPERTY (APN 004-441-24) REQUIRED FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE BAY DRIVE

PROTECTED BIKE LANES AND PEDESTRIAN PATH PROJECT AND

AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE

CORRESPONDING DEED AND CERTIFICATE OF ACCEPTANCE
WHEREAS, the City has initiated the Bay Drive Protected Bike Lanes and Pedestrian Path Project; and
WHEREAS, in order to construct the Bay Drive Protected Bike Lanes and Pedestrian Path Project, it is necessary to acquire a public access trail easement over certain property designated APN 004-441-24; and
WHEREAS, Santa Cruz City Schools has approved granting a permanent easement to the City of Santa Cruz for this project;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Santa Cruz that the City Manager is authorized and directed to execute a public access trail easement and certificate of acceptance, in a form approved by the City Attorney, for that portion of APN 004- 441-24 necessary to complete the construction of the Bay Drive Protected Bike Lanes and Pedestrian Path Project.

PASSED AND ADOPTED this 25th day of August, 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

DISQUALIFIED:

APPROVED: ______________________________
Fred Keeley, Mayor
ATTEST: _________________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator

13.8 RESOLUTION NO. NS-XX,XXX

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ APPROVING

THE DESIGN AND PLANS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE BAY STREET AT ESCALONA DRIVE PILOT, PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 830.6 The City Council of the City of Santa Cruz does resolve as follows:

SECTION 1: The City Council finds and declares as follows:

A. City staff has designed and prepared the plans for the Bay Street at Escalona Drive Pilot.

B. The City Engineer has approved the completed design and plans for the Project.

SECTION 2: Authorization.

A. The City Council approves the design and plans for the Project.

B. The approved plans, dated 7/2/2026 and 7/15/2026, can be found online at:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/Government/City-Departments/Public-Works/Projects or via this direct link:
https://www.santacruzca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/pw/documents/transportation/baystreet-at-escalona-drive-pilot-design.pdf .

C. The design approval set forth in this Resolution occurred before actual work on the Project construction commenced.

D. The approval granted by this Resolution conforms with the City's General Plan.

E. The City Engineer, or designee, is authorized to act on the City's behalf in approving any modified or updated designs or plans, or any alterations or modifications of the design or plans approved by this Resolution.

F. The approval and authorization granted by this Resolution is intended to avail the City of the immunities set forth in Government Code § 830.6.

SECTION 3: The City Clerk is directed to certify the adoption of this Resolution.

SECTION 4: This Resolution will become effective immediately upon adoption.

13.9 RESOLUTION NO. NS-XX,XXX
PASSED AND ADOPTED this XX day of XX, 20XX, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

DISQUALIFIED:

APPROVED: __________________________
Fred Keeley, Mayor
ATTEST: ___________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator

13.10 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 04/03/2025
AGENDA OF: 04/22/2025
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
SUBJECT: Bay Corridor Design Concept – California Street to High Street and Environmental Determination: Categorical Exemption: 14 CCR § 15301. (PW)
LOCATION: Districts 3, 4, 5, and 6
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to:
1) Approve the recommended Design Alternative of separated bi-directional bike lanes for the Bay Corridor between California Street and High Street; 2) Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a Cooperative Agreement for Local Improvements Agreement with Caltrans in a form approved by the City Attorney; 3) Direct the City Manager, or designee, to negotiate with Santa Cruz City Schools to acquire property at Bayview Elementary School (APN 004-441-24) for the project in accordance with Administrative Procedure Order 28; and
4) Approve the CEQA analysis contained in the agenda report, including the applicability of the following CEQA exemptions: Pub. Res. Code § 21080.25(b)(1) (pedestrian and bicycle facilities that improve safety, access, or mobility); Class 1 (Existing Facilities) categorical exemption (14 CCR § 15301); Class 4 (Minor Alterations) categorical exemption (14 CCR § 15304); and Common Sense Exemption (14 CCR § 15061).

BACKGROUND: The Bay Corridor is a critical transportation route for people walking, biking, taking transit, and driving. The 2.1-mile corridor connects West Cliff Drive to UCSC, and along the route serves neighborhoods, parks, senior housing, Bay View Elementary School, Mission Hill Middle School, Santa Cruz High School, neighborhood commercial, and high quality transit routes with high ridership. The Bay Corridor was identified in the 2017 Active Transportation Plan as one of the top ten most important projects to complete to increase multimodal access for the Santa Cruz community.

The City of Santa Cruz (City) has identified the Bay Corridor from West Cliff Drive to High Street for a complete streets redesign. The goal of the Bay Corridor improvements is to construct complete streets improvements along the entire corridor, enhancing safety and mobility for all

13.11 roadway users and increasing connectivity and access to schools, parks, housing, and other multimodal facilities.

To assist with project delivery, the corridor improvements will be delivered in the following three phases (segments):
 Segment 1 - Escalona to Nobel/Iowa: Recommended by Transportation Public Works Commission (TPWC) and approved by Council in 2024, construction is scheduled for March-June 2025 and includes separated bike lanes and pedestrian path.  Segment 2 - California to High Street, excludes Escalona to Nobel/Iowa: This segment is the focus of this staff report. The concept design incorporates complete streets elements, including separated bi-directional bike lanes, transit boarding islands, speed management treatments, and pedestrian enhancements. This segment is funded by an Affordable Housing and Sustainability Community (AHSC) grant secured for the Library Mixed-Use project. If approved, construction is anticipated to occur in late 2026 through 2027.  Segment 3 – West Cliff to California: Currently planned for in-house design as staff resources and funding become available. It is anticipated to include similar design concepts of Segment 2 with initial concepts presented to TPWC.

In November 2023, staff brought preliminary concept plans for the Bay Corridor from California Street to Mission Street for TWPC review. The concept presented included a bi-directional separated bike lane on the Bay View frontage. TPWC provided direction to staff to consider what additional safety measures could be added, including aggressively pursuing speed reduction tools, estimating the cost of a sidewalk level bike lane spanning the entire length of the segment, considering additional treatments for the Bay/Seaside intersection, and consulting with Caltrans to modify the Mission Street intersection to allow for widening of the bicycle lane.

Staff subsequently secured additional funding to complete the design of the Bay Corridor Complete Streets and executed a contract with Mark Thomas, a transportation design consulting firm. A project open house was hosted on January 22, 2025 at Bay View Elementary to solicit feedback. The meeting was noticed via direct postcard mailings to owners and occupants within 300 feet of Bay, physical postings along the corridor, a media push, social media postings, and promotion by Bay View Elementary School. The January Open House was well attended with an estimated 80 people providing detailed feedback. Bilingual staff were present to support English and Spanish speaking individuals. Feedback received focused on concern about parking loss, mixed feelings on left-turning restrictions, appreciation for physical separation for bicycle facilities, and questions about proposed King and Mission intersection treatments.

At its February 24, 2025 meeting, TPWC again reviewed an updated Bay Corridor design which incorporated feedback gathered from the January Open House. TPWC was largely supportive of the overall approach, with specific discussion about the importance of making the corridor work well for elementary and middle school aged youth. While the Commission was supportive of the design treatments, they directed staff to explore a new design alternative that included separated one-way (conventional) direction bike lanes on each side of the roadway for review at the March TPWC Open House.

13.12 Staff worked with Mark Thomas to develop a design alternative for separated one-way direction bike lanes on each side of the road that maintains the highest level of separation from vehicles possible within the right of way. At the March 24, 2025 Transportation and Public Works Commission Open House, staff presented both the one-way and bi-directional concepts. Both were well received, with attendees debating and discussing the merits of each for themselves and their community.

Urgent approval of the Segment 2 concept plan is critical to align project delivery with the upcoming Caltrans Capital Maintenance (CAP-M) project. The CAP-M project is scheduled to repave and improve accessibility on Mission Street in 2026/2027. The concept plans have been reviewed with the Caltrans project development team for concurrence of design. If the concept design is not incorporated into the CAP-M project, the City will not have the ability to deliver the Segment 2 improvements within the grant funding deadline.

DISCUSSION:

Design Criteria and Design User
Overall, the project aims to make the Bay Corridor feel safe, comfortable, and accessible for users of all ages and abilities. To guide design recommendations, the City uses the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO) All Ages and Abilities guide as well as the Level of Traffic Stress Criteria. These guidelines provide direction of what design treatments are appropriate to create bicycle facilities that feel comfortable and safe for users from children to seniors. These guides use the roadway context to inform design choices, including the speed and volume of traffic, number of lanes, and intersection configurations.

Staff discussed the intended design’s user at length. As a key corridor with direct access to Bay View Elementary School, Neary Lagoon and Trescony parks, senior housing, and both West Cliff and Rail Trail multiuse paths, the facility is designed using a principle called All Ages and Abilities.

NACTO defines All Ages and Abilities bicycle facilities as ones that are safe, comfortable and equitable. The NACTO guidance describes various All Ages and Abilities users who should be considered in facility design. Specific to this effort, the design users include children, seniors, women, people with disabilities, and low-income riders. Design considerations for these user groups include the ability to detect risks, fear of traffic, lower speeds, personal safety, and traffic stress levels. Research shows that existing bicycle facility designs, which are typically Class II painted bike lanes, are only comfortable for 6-10% of the population, but that up to 81% of people would ride in a separated bike lane designed for ages and abilities.

The NACTO guidance also provides a matrix to assist in choosing appropriate All Ages and Abilities facilities. This matrix uses roadway speed, roadway volume, number of lanes, and operational considerations. In cases where speeds are 26 miles per hour of greater, the recommended treatment is to either provide a separated bike lane or to reduce speeds. In all cases where the roadway volume exceeds 6,000, a separated bike lane is the recommended All Ages and Abilities facility. The Bay Corridor exceeds both thresholds and therefore is a candidate for separated bike lanes.

Hand in hand with the NACTO Guide, the team also considered the Level of Traffic Stress (LTS) guided by the Low-Stress Bicycling and Network Connectivity publication from the

13.13 Mineta Transportation Institute (MTI). The LTS framework is intuitive: more people are willing to ride bike where it feels safe and comfortable to ride, few people are willing to ride where it feels uncomfortable due to high speeds and volumes of cars. According to this research, LTS 1 is meant to be a level that most children can tolerate; LTS 2, the level that will be tolerated by the mainstream adult population; LTS 3, the level tolerated by American cyclists who are “enthused and confident” but still prefer having their own dedicated space for riding; and LTS 4, a level tolerated only by those characterized as “strong and fearless.” Further, “as the number of lanes, traffic speed and traffic volume increase, providing a low level of stress requires progressively more protective measures – dedicated bike lanes and, ultimately, physically segregated bikeways.”
NACTO Guide: https://nacto.org/wp-content/uploads/NACTO_Designing-for-All-AgesAbilities.pdf, Low-Stress Bicycling and Network Connectivity Publication:
https://transweb.sjsu.edu/sites/default/files/1005-low-stress-bicycling-network-connectivity.pdf LTS Tables: https://bpb-use1.wpmucdn.com/sites.northeastern.edu/dist/e/618/files/2014/05/LTS-Tables-v2.2.pdf -v2.2.pdf Related to LTS, the project goal is to achieve LTS2 or better on the Bay Corridor. As the MTI research states, LTS 2 criteria is in line with Dutch standards for bicycle facility design, and is appropriate for “mainstream, traffic-intolerant adult population.” Key to this is that the Dutch standards have been shown to attract mainstream populations, including roughly equal proportions of male and female riders. A separated bike lane or multiuse path is considered LTS 1 between intersections, but additional considerations at intersections must be considered to maintain LTS 2 or better.

On the Bay Corridor from California Street to High Street, volumes exceed 6,000 Active Daily Traffic (ADT) in all locations, with a range from 6,100 at Bay View Elementary to over 12,000 at High Street. Additionally, Bay Drive between Escalona and High streets has a posted speed limit of 30 miles per hour. Using both speed and volume considerations, the NACTO design guidelines therefore indicate that a separated bike lane is the appropriate treatment for the entire corridor. To maintain a LTS of 2 or better, physical separation from motor vehicles and intersection treatments that separate cyclists from right turn conflicts with vehicles is required.

An additional consideration of the design comes from the funding for the project. The Bay Corridor design funding primarily comes from Affordable Housing Sustainable Communities.

The grant requirements include two lane miles of new or upgraded bicycle facilities and a minimum of five transit boarding islands. The recommended design meets all grant requirements of the funder. Due to the grant deadlines, the project cannot undertake substantial right-of-way acquisition or utility relocations.

Design Recommendation
The below section outlines proposed designs by segment. Where applicable, one-way and bidirectional bicycle facility alternatives are described and the rationale for the recommended treatment is identified.

California to Mission:

13.14 Bi-directional separated bike lane: this is proposed on the Bay View Elementary side of the roadway. This will connect to the existing Rail Trail Segment 7 at the Bay/California intersection, linking to the existing bi-directional separated bicycle facility. This design proposes left turn restrictions on side streets to minimize conflicts with the bicycle facility and maintains the existing Bike Route on Seaside/Acadia. This configuration locates people biking on the school frontage, recognizing that existing travel patterns for youth are to ride on the sidewalk to both access Bay View Elementary and utilize the existing crossing guard at the Bay/Mission intersection. The entire bicycle facility is separated from traffic all the way to the intersection.

A loading zone for pickup/drop-off and transit is provided for the inbound transit stop on the Bay View school frontage. The bus stop and loading zone allows vehicles to pull out of the lane and remove conflicts between people loading and the vehicles.

This design maintains nine parking spaces on the non-Bay View side of the roadway. Currently there are approximately 29 spaces in this between California and Mission.

Why the one-way alternative is not recommended: Staff considered a more conventional treatment with separated bike lanes on each side of the roadway. That alternative was designed to concept level. While there are many improvements that can be made over status quo with the one-way configuration, staff does not recommend this alternative for the following reasons:
• Bay/Seaside intersection would require utility relocation. While this process is technically possible, recent experience shows that this introduces a high level of risk to the project due to schedule issues. With grant timelines, this creates more risk than the project team is comfortable with.
• Parking: the one-way configuration removes all parking. • Creates challenges connecting to and across the Mission Street Intersection.

Mission Street Intersection:

Bi-directional separated bike lane: The separated bike lane is proposed to have a dedicated signal phase to maintain physical and time-based separation. The traffic signal phasing will be adjusted so the bi-directional bicycle crossing and adjacent crosswalk run separately from turning conflicts with vehicles. This is achieved by pairing the crossing with the northbound through movement on Bay. This would include a no-turn on red prohibition. This treatment has been reviewed with Caltrans and received their support.

These treatments maintain a LTS of between 1 and 2, meeting the needs of the elementary and middle school aged students who use this intersection to access school.

Why the one-way alternative is not recommended: At the intersection, a separated bicycle lane would be dropped to allow sufficient space for right turns at the intersection. In this alternative bikes and turning vehicles would share the space. The bicycles would be subject to right turning conflicts at the intersection but could receive a leading bike interval with the leading pedestrian interval similar to other cross streets along Mission Street. This configuration increases the level of stress at the intersection to LTS4, well above the goal of LTS2. While this would still feel comfortable for many adult riders, this is not an ideal design for youth or elderly riders.

Additionally, the through movements on Bay for bikes would happen with the auto phase, whereas the bidirectional alternative has a dedicated phase just for bikes and pedestrians.

13.15 Adjacent to the old Burger. restaurant space, the facility would be a shared bus/bike lane. This transit stop is one of the highest volume in the County and has 15-minute transit service. This configuration creates an additional conflict compared to the bidirectional separated bike lane where bikes do not conflict with the bus stop.

Mission to King:

Bi-directional separated bike lane: the bidirectional treatment continues on the Bay View Elementary side of the roadway. This alternative proposes left turn restrictions at Toledo and Anita Streets to limit conflicts with the bicycle facility. The transition from a bi-directional separated bike lane to a one-way separated bike lane happens at King Street signalized intersection in line with best practices and to create strong connectivity to Mission Hill Middle School. A transit boarding island for the inbound transit stop is included, creating dedicated space for all roadway users.

Currently, there is a time-based bike lane on Bay between Mission and King Street, prohibiting parking from 7:30am to 6:00pm Monday to Friday. The proposed plan removes parking on this segment at all times to create a permeant separated bicycle facility.

This separation maintains a LTS1 the length of this segment.

Why the one-way alternative is not recommended: this is a more conventional treatment with separated bike lanes on each side of the roadway. Aside from the previously noted shared bus/bike lane adjacent to the old Burger., this treatment would also function well. The primary reason that the bi-directional treatment is recommended through here is to maintain the lowest level of stress at the Mission and King intersections, which the bidirectional achieves better than the one-way.

King Street Intersection
Bi-directional separated bike lane: At the signalized Bay/King intersection, the bi-directional bike lane will transition to one-way bike lanes on each side the rest of the way to High Street. To do this, the northbound bicycle movement will receive exclusive phasing at the traffic signal.

This will allow cyclists to access either direction of King Street or northbound Bay Street.

Cyclists on King Street will use a bike box to turn left into the separated bike lane. Northbound cyclists will have to wait a little longer to cross than they do today, but southbound cyclists won’t be significantly impacted. The westbound right turn lane from King Street to Bay Street will be eliminated to provide a short stretch of bike lanes at the intersection. This creates a strong connection to Mission Hill Middle School using a treatment appropriate for youth.

Why the one-way alternative is not recommended: The intersection would function similarly to current conditions. The separation at the intersection would be lost to accommodate turning movements. Similar to at Mission Street, this configuration increases the level of stress to at the intersection to LTS4, above the goal of LTS2. Minor improvements could be made on King Street to add additional dedicated space for cyclists, but the resulting intersection would still have a higher level of stress than the bi-directional recommendation.

King to High
From King to High, a one-way raised or separated bike lane is the only design considered. This was chosen due to the potential interaction between high-speed downhill cyclists and much slower uphill cyclists on the segment north of Escalona where the grade is significant.

13.16 King to Escalona: North of King Street the configuration changes to one-way separated bike lanes. The bike lane is proposed to be raised to maximize separation in limited right of way.

Marked pedestrian crossings are added at all legs of the Escalona intersection. Currently no parking is provided and that is not proposed to change.

Escalona to Nobel/Iowa: This segment is currently under construction with one-way separated bike lanes with a two-way pedestrian path on the uphill side.

Nobel/Iowa to High: From Nobel/Iowa to High, one vehicle lane in each direction is removed to create space for one-way separated bike lanes on each side of the roadway. All vehicle lanes remain at the intersection of Bay/High to maintain current operational capacity. Additional intersection treatments are proposed at Meder Street to facilitate crossing for people walking and biking. Transit boarding islands are proposed at the outbound Bay/Iowa stop and the inbound transit Bay/High stop.

Other Design Considerations
Side Street Turn Conflicts and Access
The proposed bi-directional bike lane concept shows prohibition of left turns across the separated bike lane. Mixed feedback was received from the neighbors on this, with acknowledgement of the inconvenience and appreciation of the reduction in neighborhood cut-through traffic.

Currently, left turn conflicts exist across the bi-directional separated bike lane on Bay Street between California and north Redwood Street. Since the installation of the bi-directional bike lane between California Street and north of Redwood as part of Rail Trail Segment 7 Phase 1, there have been no reported crashes between cyclists and left-turning vehicles. This indicates that low volume residential streets are suitable for low levels of turning conflicts. To create an all ages and abilities network, the turn conflicts, especially left turning, need to be mitigated in some way, by either reducing the volume of turn conflicts, slowing speeds, or improving the perception of the cyclists. Typically, this is achieved by creating a separated corner treatment which puts 6-16’ feet of buffer between the bicycle lane and vehicular travel lane. The space provided for the separated corner also creates the space needed for cyclists to make left turns out of the bike facility.

With the separated bike lane provided on the southwest side of Bay Street, all the local cross streets, except Seaside Street, are then adjacent to the bike lane, providing a connection to the bike facility.

As the final design progresses, staff will continue to evaluate access management to/from side streets off Bay between Redwood Street and Anita Street.

Right-of-Way Acquisition
The bidirectional bike facility and loading area at Bayview Elementary School requires additional public right-of-way to complete the project. A property acquisition of approximately 4,000 square feet will be needed from the school (APN 004-441-24) in addition to a temporary construction easement. The Santa Cruz City School District Office has indicated support for the project and a willingness to provide the property to the City. If the bidirectional bike lanes concept is approved, the City will enter into negotiations with the school district to acquire the

13.17 property in accordance with Administrative Procedure Order I-28. The results of that effort will be presented to City Council for adoption. No other property acquisitions are anticipated as a part of the project.

Local Agreement with Caltrans:

As noted, Caltrans will be implementing a Capital Maintenance (CAP-M) project to repave Mission Street. Caltrans and City staff have been coordinating project delivery of the CAP-M project with the Bay/Mission intersection component. Doing so minimizes disruption to the traveling public, saves costs and effort, and maximizes resources. If the bidirectional bike lanes concept is approved, Caltrans staff would then own completion of the intersection crossing design and project delivery.

In order for Caltrans to incorporate into the Caltrans CAP-M project, the City must provide an approved concept design. In addition, the City must enter into a Cooperative Agreement for Local Improvements Agreement with Caltrans to outline roles and responsibilities, and scope, schedule, and budget commitments. This is a critical path decision to allow for project coordination of the City project with the Caltrans project. Construction of the Caltrans CAP-M project is planned to begin in December 2026 and continue for 12 months. The project limits implemented by Caltrans and separately by the City will be identified in this agreement.

Staff recommends entering into a Cooperative Agreement for Local Improvements Agreement with Caltrans to deliver this component of the project in a form acceptable to the City Attorney.

Concept plans can be found on the City website at:
www.cityofsantacruz.com/publicworksprojects
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: The Council approvals contained within this agenda report qualify for the following CEQA exemptions: a statutory exemption pursuant to Pub. Res. Code § 21080.25(b)(1) (pedestrian and bicycle facilities that improve safety, access, or mobility); a Class 1 (Existing Facilities) categorical exemption (14 CCR § 15301, see subd. (c)); a Class 4 (Minor Alterations) categorical exemption (14 CCR § 15304, see subd. (h)); and the Common Sense Exemption (14 CCR § 15061). The project fits within these exempt categories and none of the exceptions to the CEQA exemptions listed in 14 CCR § 15300 are applicable. Finally, it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the project may have a significant effect on the environment.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): The proposed project is in alignment with the City’s HiAP initiative by supporting Health and Wellness and Healthy Environments. Providing facilities for people to safely walk and bike supports the community having healthy options for travel, aids in our climate goals, and supports healthy environments.

The General Plan mobility policies strongly support this project. These include Goal M1 “Land use patterns, street design, parking, and access solutions that facilitate multiple transportation alternatives” and policy M1.2 “Create livable streets. “Livable streets” support the intent of Section 65302(b) of the California Government Code to create “complete streets” planned, designed, operated, and maintained to provide safe mobility for all users, including “bicyclists, children, persons with disabilities, motorists, movers of commercial goods, pedestrians, users of public transportation, and seniors.”

13.18 FISCAL IMPACT:

1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: No

2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: No

3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: No FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: This design effort is funded by a $399,000 Regional Surface Transportation Program Exchange (RSTPX) grant matched with $51,000 in Gas Tax funds. There is no impact to the General Fund.

Prepared By:

Claire Gallogly
Principal Transportation
Planner
Submitted By:

Nathan Nguyen, P.E.

Director of Public Works
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS.PDF

13.19 13.20

13.21 13.22

13.23 13.24

13.25 13.26

13.27 13.28

13.29 BUS STOPBAY STREET ESCALONA DR BAY DRIVE REFERENCES DRAWING #: FIELD BOOK: DESIGN CHECKED DATE DRAWN VAULT NO. SCALE SHEET OF 809 Center Street, Room 201 Santa Cruz, CA 95060 REVISIONS P U B L I C W O R K S D E P A R T M E N T SANTACRUZ C I T Y O F C I T Y O F S A N T A C R U Z C A L I F O R N I A 1866 # CONSTRUCTION PLAN PROHIBITED LEFT TURN BAY DRIVE AND ESCALONA DRIVE # CMSUPV. CM07/02/2026 1" = 20' 11.0 11.0 14' 12.5' 100' 100' 10.0 FIGURE 2 - PROHIBITED LEFT TURN MOVEMENT 14' 13.30 Figure 2: Bay Street at Anita Street and Toledo Street Circulation Example mountable median section
Example photo of mountable median

13.31 Brittany Inclan
From: Martha McGinnis <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, August 18, 2026 3:03 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Safety on Escalona Drive
To Members of the City Council:

I have lived on the 1000 block of Escalona Drive since 1986, and during that time the population of the upper Westside, including the university, has increased significantly. With that increase has come very dangerous traffic conditions for Escalona residents, pedestrians, and bicyclists. People constantly drive over the speed limit. They choose Escalona because they can drive faster than on alternate routes. Since the intersection of Bay and Escalona has no traffic light and there is no prohibition against left turns from Bay onto Escalona, this intersection is one of the most dangerous in the city.

Unlike the alternate routes of Kenneth, Anthony, Laurent, King, and Mission, Escalona does not have continuous sidewalks on both sides of the street. One block has no sidewalks on either side. It has been suggested that sidewalks be installed on both sides of Escalona. However, the topography of Escalona would make this option extremely expensive if installed on residents' properties. If the sidewalks were installed adjacent to these properties, Escalona would be unable to handle two lanes of traffic on my and other blocks.

The city staff has abandoned their proposal to prohibit left turns from Bay onto Escalona, though restricting the number of cars would be the best way to create safer conditions for pedestrians and bicyclists on Escalona. Thus, I urge the city to: install speed bumps and a continuous sidewalk on one side of Escalona; reduce the speed on Bay and Escalona to 20 mph; and install speed bumps on Bay.

Thank you,
Martha McGinnis

13.32 Brittany Inclan
From: Donald Wittman <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, August 19, 2026 10:16 AM
To: City Council
Subject: safety on Escalona drive
To the members of the city council:

This is an issue that involves a conflict of interest between the few pedestrians and bicyclists who face the threat of injury and death because of the lack of a wider street and buildable sidewalks versus the the inconvenience of the many who would like to speed through and shorten their commute.

Donald Wittman
11039 Escalona Drive

13.33 Brittany Inclan
From: Kevin Vogel <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 20, 2026 7:25 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Public Comment - City Council Agenda Item #13 - Bay and Escalona Intersection Modifications
Dear Mayor and Council:

Eliminating the left turn movements at the intersection of Bay and Escalona treats the symptom and not the cause. Vehicles traveling at excessive and unsafe speeds on Bay Drive and Bay Street are creating the unsafe traffic conditions at the intersection of Bay and Escalona. If you slow traffic down, the intersection of Bay and Escalona will be safer. Adding physical barriers at the intersection of Bay and Escalona will: 1) inconvenience entire neighborhoods of people trying to get to and from their homes; 2) create additional traffic on neighborhood streets that are not currently impacted by excessive traffic; and 3) fail to address the root cause of the problem.

I encourage Council to direct city staff to develop creative solutions that address the root cause of vehicles traveling at excessive and unsafe speeds on Bay Drive and Bay Street rather than defaulting to the Band-Aid approach of using the “near-term, quick-build interventions” recommended by city staff.

Thank you for your consideration.

Respectfully,
Kevin Vogel
Santa Cruz

13.34 Brittany Inclan
From: Philip Boutelle <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, August 24, 2026 8:00 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Comment re Item 13: Bay Drive and Escalona safety improvements Mayor and Councilmembers,
I'm writing to request your support for the recommended changes to Bay and Escalona, as well as the other staff recommendations on this item. This intersection is very dangerous for all users, and the recommended changes should reduce the number of major crashes.

It seems clear that Option 1 will do more to decrease crashes, but I also accept that the compromise Option 2 is still a major safety improvement. Either option will likely cause minor inconveniences for me and my neighbors during peak traffic times, but I think that's a trade off we should embrace.

I request that you don't make changes to the pilot design, especially if those changes are based on direct feedback from some of my outspoken neighbors. I trust our licensed professional staff to make the best choices here, and I respectfully ask that you do the same.

Mayor Keeley, I'm also requesting that you alter your practice to let the council member from the district take the lead on this motion. With our new district system, councilmembers are inherently resistant to changes affecting their district because it is politically risky. Instead, please poll the council to see who will put forward a motion supporting the staff recommendations, and provide political cover for the district council members--D3 and D4 in this instance--to be on the losing side of the vote. Then we get the best project, without changes, and they can still tell their constituents that they did their best and acted to protect the status quo. As a resident of District 4, I suggest giving the motion to District 1 or 2.

Thank you,
-Philip Boutelle
District 4, Santa Cruz

13.35 Brittany Inclan
From: Bennett Williamson <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, August 24, 2026 8:48 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Please approve the pilot project on Bay and Escalona Hello Council members -
I am writing to ask you to approve the pilot project proposed for the intersection of Bay and Escalona. I am a cyclist and work in the city of Santa Cruz and this project would make me feel much safer when moving through this intersection.

I would be fine with Option 1 - removing the downhill left turn from Bay onto Escalona - even though my family and I use that route when leaving campus by car. I think the safety benefits are worth it. I also understand staff's reasoning and would be fine with Option 2, their recommendation.

I appreciate that the city and the Public Works department are taking action to address a problematic intersection with a history of crashes by doing a pilot project which can be implemented quickly and at low cost. This shows me that city leadership is supporting road safety in a serious way - for the benefit of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Thanks
Bennett Williamson

13.36 Brittany Inclan
From: Bonnie Bush
Sent: Monday, August 24, 2026 10:58 AM
To: City Council
Subject: FW: Changes to Bay and Escalona streets
Bonnie Bush, CMC
City Clerk - City of Santa Cruz
809 Center St., Room 8, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Phone: 831-420-5035
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.santacruzca.gov

Public Records Requests may be submitted online via the Public Records Request form, by email, or by hard copy form available at the City Clerk’s Office located at 809 Center Street, Room 8, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.

Please note: Public Record Act Requests submitted via email, fax, USPS, or dropoff after 5:00 p.m. on a business day, Saturdays, Sundays, or holidays will be processed as received on the next open business day. The 10-day response period begins when the request is received.

From: John Thompson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, August 24, 2026 10:53 AM
To: Bonnie Bush <[email protected]>
Subject: Changes to Bay and Escalona streets
****CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.****
Dear Bonnie,
Where can we find more information about the proposed changes to Bay and Escalona streets? With no details, it's pretty difficult to assess whether or not the proposed changes will cause traffic going from Bay to Escalona to turn at King Street instead. King Street already has more than its share of traffic; please, don't funnel even more traffic this way. Already, there are times when maximum optimal capacity is exceeded, when King Street is a dysfunctional, noisy and slow moving parking lot, when we can't safely exit our own driveways.

We would like to attend the Tuesday, August 25 meeting via Zoom. Is there a link for doing that? Thanks for considering our concerns, and thank you for your service to our community.

13.37 John Thompson & Patsy Wikes
1116 King Street
[email protected]

13.38 Brittany Inclan
From: Val Cole <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, August 24, 2026 1:09 PM
To: City Council
Cc: Claire Gallogly
Subject: Escalona Safety
Dear Mayor Keeley and City Council members,
Today staff is presenting a plan to make the Escalona/Bay intersection safer. That is a positive move for everyone’s safety.

What’s also needed is a plan to make the half mile stretch of Escalona to Walnut safer, as traffic and speeding have significantly increased over the past several years.
* There are no sidewalks on one side of this section of Escalona * There are only partial sidewalks on the other side of the street. * On one block there are no sidewalks on either side of the street! * This is a high traffic area for kids going to school on bikes and on foot. It is also a section of the EA “Bikeway, and a very popular route for walking.
* Unlike King street, Walnut, and many of the surrounding streets, there are no speed bumps.

In total, this section of Escalona is dangerous to pedestrians and cyclists, and quite scary.

We need the city to prioritize significantly improving the safety of this half mile section of Escalona with either speed bumps, complete sidewalks on at least one side of the street, or both.

Kind regards,
Val Cole, Escalona resident for 8 years

13.39 Brittany Inclan
From: Geoffrey Smith <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, August 24, 2026 1:32 PM
To: City Council
Subject: August 25 2026 Agenda Item #13; Bay and Escalona Pilot Option 2 I live near University Terrace Park off Nobel and am in favor of the proposed pilot option #2 at Escalona and Bay St/Dr over option #1 and hope it makes the intersection safer. However, I still think speed is the biggest problem on Bay St/Dr and stop signs should be tried as a pilot project. High St. deals with backed up traffic twice a day for an hour or so and Bay St. could too. The traffic backing up for a couple hours a day might actually encourage more people to ride an e-bike or take the Metro instead. Especially with so many buses available going to UCSC all day long.

I am encouraged community input at the TPWC meeting was listened to and changes were made to the original plans prohibiting all left turns onto Escalona. However, I empathize with Escalona residents and think the TPWC should work towards installing speed berms to slow drivers, just as on King St., but sidewalks should be left to individual residents. Maybe the City could discount any permit fees for those who choose to install a sidewalk on their property.

I also am glad the TPWC staff withdrew their proposal to restrict left turns from Meder St. but speed on Bay Dr. probably will still be a problem. Hopefully the future plans to remove one lane will slow drivers and an added pullout for left turns will help. This intersection will have more users in the future when the large undeveloped property on Meder across from the cemetery gets high-density housing built on it. There may be a need for stop signs or a light in the future.

Also, the City should have more and earlier public outreach for affected residents further than 300 ft when plans like this are proposed in the future. I only learned about this through Nextdoor and since meeting agendas and documents aren't available prior 72 hours in advance on the City's website, it was difficult to get needed information in time to digest it all and provide input.

Thank You,
Geoffrey J. Smith

13.40 Bay Drive Protected Bike
Lanes and Pedestrian Path
Project
2026.8.25 City Council

13.41 Three Elements Today
Pilot Design Bay/Escalona
Future Complete Streets intersection treatments for Anita and Toledo
Finalizing Right of Way: Bay View frontage

13.42 Schedule
Escalona to Nobel complete
2025
Recommendation 1: Proposed
Bay/Escalona pilot installation
Fall 2026
Complete design for California to
High, Council adoption, bid project
Q1 2027
Construction begins for California
to High
Recommendation 2 and 3
Summer 2027
Caltrans CAP-M project on Mission
St- River St to western city limits
Spring 2028

13.43 In August of 2019, the City of Santa Cruz adopted a Vision Zero policy to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries on City streets by 2030

13.44 Safe Systems Approach

13.45 Past Work
Active Transportation Plan (2026)
The ATP outlines the projects, programs, and policies to increase mobility for people walking, rolling, and biking in the City of Santa Cruz.

The 2026 Plan updated the 2017 Plan. The 2017 Plan identified Bay as a “Top 10” priority project. The 2026 Plan
Local Roadway Safety Plan (2021)
The Santa Cruz LRSP analyzes collision data on an aggregate basis and at specific locations to identify trends, patterns and highest collision locations.

Bay Street/Drive between Escalona Drive and High Street was identified as a Priority Corridor based on the concentration of crashes at multiple locations.

Safety Action Plan (underway)
The SAP is a comprehensive analysis of roadway safety data that seeks to eliminate fatal and serious injuries on the roadway by a target year. The SAP uses a Safe Systems approach
Bay is on the High Injury Network, the less than 20% of streets that make up the majority of all fatal and serious injury collisions.

13.46 Prior Direction
April 22, 2025 City Council
Design direction to proceed with bi-directional separated bike lanes for the Bay Corridor between California Street and King Street

13.47 Bay/Escalona
Quick Build Pilot Project

13.48 Bay Street at Escalona Drive
Alt 1: TPWC Collision History:
• 2020-2025: eight collisions
• Two serious injury, two minor injury, four complaint of pain • Six broadside, one rear end, one sideswipe
Community Feedback: SPEED, Neighborhood spillover traffic, stop warrant

13.49 Bay Street at Escalona Drive
Staff Recommendation

13.50 Quick Build/Pilot
Install (cheap first, full build later)
Measure the results
Refine the design
Keep, Remove, Improve?
Signs, Posts and Paint to Test
Curbs and Concrete Later

13.51 Future Intersection Changes at
Anita Street and Toledo Street
Capital Project- Summer 2027

13.52 Bay Street at Anita and Toledo
TPWC Staff Rec
Speed bump
Mountable
median
Reviewed at June
meeting
Lots of feedback
Staff rec revised based
on feedback received

13.53 Bay Street at Anita and Toledo
Mountable
medians

13.54 Right of Way
Great partnership with SCCS!

13.55 Right of Way
• Yay! Just need to formally accept

13.56 Staff Recommendation
1) Adopt a resolution to approve the design and plans for the Bay Street at Escalona Drive Pilot Plan, and direct staff to implement the approved pilot plan, which restricts through movements on Escalona Drive across Bay Street/Drive while maintaining the southbound left turn from Bay Street to eastbound Escalona Drive;
2) Confirm design approach for the future Complete Streets project to use mountable medians on Bay Street at Toledo Street and Anita Street; and 3) Adopt a resolution accepting a permanent public access trail easement for public use from Santa Cruz City Schools over a portion of real property (APN 004-441-24) required for the construction of the Bay Drive Protected Bike Lanes and Pedestrian Path Project and authorizing and directing the City Manager to execute the corresponding deed and Certificate of Acceptance.

13.57 Thank you

13.58 City Council Presentation | August 25, 2026
Parks & Recreation Department
Bridging Oceans, Building Futures
2026 Santa Cruz–Biarritz Sister City Adult & Junior Lifeguard Exchange Report

14.1 Sister Cities
& Biarritz at a
Glance
Why Sister Cities Matter
• Promote international understanding and citizen diplomacy • Exchange ideas, best practices, and culture
• Create opportunities for youth, education, and innovation partnerships
• Strengthen relationships between communities facing similar challenges
Biarritz Fast Facts
• French Basque coastal city on the Bay of Biscay
• Population: approximately 26,200 residents (2023)
• Mayor: Serge Blanco
• Economy centered on tourism, hospitality, surfing, and coastal recreation
• Internationally recognized seaside and surf destination

14.2 Adult Delegation: Sustainable AI & Global
Collaboration
Theme: AI, Ocean & Coastal
Territories
Convened:
• Coastal cities
• Researchers
• Startups
• Policymakers
• Sustainability leaders
Key Topics
• Responsible and sustainable AI
• Coastal resilience
• Ocean protection
• Innovation for public benefit
Coalition for Sustainable AI
• Forum participants discussed growing
international collaboration around
sustainable AI.
• The event built upon the AI & Ocean
initiative within the Coalition for
Sustainable AI, supporting the use of AI for
ecological transition and coastal
resilience.

Santa Cruz Opportunity
• Participate in emerging global discussions
on responsible AI.
• Explore applications that support
environmental stewardship and coastal
management.

14.3 Civic Exchange: Meeting
with Mayor Serge Blanco
Municipal Leadership Discussion
Topics included:
• Recreational facilities
• Funding public amenities
• Tourism impacts
• Maintaining quality of life in a coastal destination
Shared Challenges
Both Santa Cruz and Biarritz are working to:
• Maintain public assets
• Balance resident needs and visitor demand
• Strengthen community spaces
• Invest in long-term coastal resilience

14.4 Culture, Arts,
and Innovation
Les Casetas Festival: Biarritz's annual summer kickoff celebration • Live music
• DJs
• Food
• Crafts
• Week-long community programming
Public Art with Updaters
• Community-based mural and graffiti projects
• Artist-led neighborhood engagement
• Beautification of shared public spaces
ESTIA Engineering School
• Entrepreneurship and innovation-focused engineering education • Strong connection between students, industry, and applied problemsolving 14.5 Junior Lifeguard
Exchange
Youth-to-Youth Diplomacy
The Junior Lifeguard exchange provided:
• Ocean safety training
• Leadership development
• Cultural immersion
• Lifelong international friendships
Shared Coastal Identity
Participants connected through:
• Beach culture
• Surf traditions
• Lifeguarding skills
• Stewardship of the ocean environment

14.6 Key Takeaways
& Next Steps
What We Learned

1. Sister Cities create meaningful, practical exchanges.

2. Coastal communities share many common challenges.

3. Sustainable AI is becoming an important global conversation.

4. Arts, culture, and public spaces strengthen civic life.

5. Youth exchanges are investments in future community leadership.

Looking Ahead
• Expand student and youth exchanges
• Explore sustainable AI collaboration
• Strengthen university and innovation partnerships
• Continue cultural and arts-based exchanges
• Deepen the Santa Cruz–Biarritz relationship for future generations Thank You.

14.7 15.1

15.2 15.3

Santa Cruz City CouncilAugust 25, 2026

Santa Cruz City Council
August 25, 2026