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framed /sashed windows in the Downtown. However, staff generally supports the use of quality fiberglass- or vinyl- framed /sashed windows provided they have a similar frame and sash thickness as found on a traditional wood framed /sashed window. For this project, the windows will require high Sound Transmission Class (STC) ratings (please see the Noise and Vibration section of this report for additional details) to mitigate train noise and staff acknowledges that it may be difficult for the applicant to find windows that comply with these window requirements. Therefore, staffs recommended condition requires that the windows have a similar frame and sash thickness as found on a traditional wood - framed /sashed window and simulated mullions must appear real and be on both sides of the glass unless the required noise mitigation for this project prevents compliance with this condition. Overall, staff believes that the building designs are attractive, and that the articulation, finish, and materials are appropriate for the Downtown, comply with the Downtown Design Guidelines, and would complement the existing buildings on St. John Street and other areas in the Downtown. Green Building The applicant has submitted a Green Building checklist that incorporates a number of green building measures into each new townhome. The PMC requires a minimum of 50 total points and the applicant is proposing a minimum of 75 points. The State's Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) will also apply to the proposed development and is similar to the green building measures that the City's Green Building Ordinance currently requires. Traffic and Circulation The Pleasanton General Plan exempts the Downtown Specific Plan area from the Citywide Level of Service (LOS) D standards although improvements at Downtown intersections may occur where necessary and when consistent with the character of the Downtown. Downtown Specific Plan streets and intersections were built prior to modern road standards and lack the necessary right -of -way for major roadway expansion. Furthermore, removing on- street parking, adding additional travel lanes, and reducing sidewalk width — the types of traffic improvements that are typically required — would be inconsistent with the desired pedestrian character of the Downtown. The proposed project is considered a small -scale project located in the Downtown and, for these reasons, does not require a traffic study. The residential uses and proposed site layout are not anticipated to create any unique traffic or circulation circumstances, or generate a substantial amount of traffic. The applicant would be required to pay applicable City and Tri- Valley traffic fees as part of the project. Therefore, the project will result in a proposed development that will be consistent with the City's traffic safety. Parking Parking for Residents Single- family homes and separately owned townhomes are required to have two parking spaces per unit, with at least one of the spaces covered in a garage or carport. The applicant is providing two covered spaces per townhouse unit via two -car garages in each unit and a detached, single -car garage with an uncovered tandem parking space for the relocated historic single - family home. The PMC requires each parking space to have unobstructed access from a street or drive aisle without moving another vehicle (i.e., not tandem). However, rezoning the P16 -1201, PUD -120, & TRACT 8326 Planning Commission 20 of 32