CCMIN05162017 - Laserfiche WebLink

Councilmember Brown referenced a letter received from a resident with concerns regarding speed bumps and lumps on the trail and asked whether that was taken into consideration. Director of Engineering Kirkpatrick reported it is not. He confirmed that the trail is regional and connects on the east end into the Livermore trail system. At the west end, it ties to Shadow Cliffs Regional Park. He added that dogs must be on a leash when on the trail. Discussion followed regarding traffic routing, the possibility of making a specific area into a single lane to allow for bicyclists and pedestrians, potential design options to accommodate bicyclists and pedestrians, and ensuring public safety. Ensuing discussion pertained to the court-guaranteed Specific Plan and Council's discretion to make modifications. These would need to go through a very public process and would result in a Specific Plan Amendment through the Planning Commission and eventually, to City Council. Mayor Thorne opened the public hearing. Gabriel Araiza thanked City Council and City staff for their help through the project process. He spoke in support of the trail, as defined by the Specific Plan. He commented on the importance of having a plan and noted the Specific Plan called for the closure of Old Vineyard Avenue and the conversion, into a trail, once the realignment of Old Vineyard Avenue occurred. He added there are still parts of the trail that are open to traffic and urged City Council to honor its commitment to the Specific Plan. He addressed the importance of public safety, reported there is no green space in the area for children to play and said if there are problems with Vineyard Avenue, these should be addressed prior to converting it into a trail. Jana Paul spoke on behalf of her husband and expressed concerns regarding where Rolling Hills and the new neighborhood come together specifically, the steepness of the hill and issues related to obstructed visibility. She proposed safer alternatives for City Council to consider and worried about pedestrians and bicyclists using that area. She suggested sending the plan back to the Planning Commission to be studied for options for correction and brought back to City Council. Additionally, that Rolling Hills be closed off and using the traffic light at Pietronave. In reply to Councilmember Olson's question, Ms. Paul clarified her suggestion to block the east side of Rolling Hills. David Saah expressed concerns regarding speeding vehicles in the area, drug paraphernalia, sex paraphernalia, and many kids drinking on the road. He implored City Council to approve Option 1 or Option 2 to increase public safety and enjoyment. He added that sending the project back for further study is not acceptable. Duke Fan spoke in support of the plan, specifically, not having Silver Oaks and Three Oaks go down Rolling Hills, but rather, be directed to Pietronave at the light. In response to Councilmember Brown's question, staff reported the change would be subject to a Specific Plan Amendment and would need to be reviewed by the Planning Commission. Leon Donn thanked City Council and staff and agreed with Mr. Fan's comments. He noted the Rolling Hills intersection has always been closed. He expressed concerns regarding increased traffic congestion and decreased visibility and urged City Council to install a traffic light in the area. He hoped modifications would be made to increase public safety. City Council Minutes Page 4 of 7 May 16, 2017