CCMIN090412 - Laserfiche WebLink

that the City has submitted a design plan to Caltrans for several improvements to 1-680 on and off ramps, which should help to alleviate congestion in the area. Councilmember Sullivan agreed that on ramp congestion at 1-680 and Bernal is already an issue. He asked what level of service currently exists at the Gateway intersection as well as at Bernal and Valley, and what is expected at build out with or without the gas station. Mr. Tassano stated that the BernalNalley intersection, even with planned improvements, remains at a poor "D" level of service at build out. He noted that this standard is recognized and approved in the General Plan. The Gateway intersection remains at level of service "C." He discussed upcoming improvements, which include a second southbound left turn lane and second northbound right turn/mixed thru lane onto 1-680. Project approval from Caltrans is anticipated this month and staff is preparing to go out to bid for construction. Councilmember Sullivan asked and staff confirmed that the improvements are fully funded. Mayor Hosterman opened the public hearing. David Bowlby, Safeway, thanked staff for their hard work and collaboration on what he feels is an excellent project. He spoke to some of the concerns raised by the Council, stating that he felt the new station would spur some healthy competition for business that benefit both the community and the consumer. He confirmed that the fuel storage system would employ state of the art equipment and that Safeway is committed to protecting the health and welfare of Pleasanton citizens. He said Safeway is prepared to move forward as soon as permits are obtained, hopes to break ground in October and anticipates it will take four months to complete the project. He supported a condition of approval that they produce the final product within one year. Mr. Bowlby acknowledged Pleasanton's position as a leader in climate action. He said that while they do not currently have any electrical vehicle charging stations in operation, the site is already equipped to house six stations. He offered to start with two stations, with a willingness to expand the offering to meet the changing environment and demands of the local electric vehicle market. Mayor Hosterman said she feels strongly that in order to achieve critical mass with this and accomplish the City's goals, they need to help the public see the opportunity by providing charging stations ahead of the need. She estimated that each charging station would cost a maximum of $5,000 and noted that Safeway would be making a significant amount of money off the proposed pumps. She asked if Safeway would be willing to start with four stations, plus conduit for an additional two stations. Councilmember McGovern noted that when the project originally came forward, Safeway had denied the Council's request for charging stations and said she felt this was as least progress. After consulting with Safeway representatives, Mr. Bowlby agreed to three stations, to be operational at the time the fuel station opens, and committed to continue to support the demand as it unfolds. Councilmember Cook-Kallio noted that there are several charging stations in Pleasanton, but they are fairly far apart. She felt it was a bit of chicken and egg scenario, in that people are not apt to purchase electric vehicles if charging stations are not easily accessible, and that the demand would be difficult to measure without providing people an opportunity to access charging stations. She also suggested that providing such stations could encourage people who might normally pass by Pleasanton to stop and spend their dollars here. Councilmember McGovern asked and Mr. Bowlby confirmed that the restrooms would be readily available to the public and that the fuel pump hoses would be of sufficient length to pump from either City Council Minutes Page 8 of 11 September 4, 2012