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one public comment expressing support for a parklet program (though not the continued closure of Main Street), as seen in Exhibit D. The City met a couple restaurant owners that are members of the Pleasanton Downtown Association (PDA) on November 30, to discuss the potential program. The restaurant owners expressed a strong interest in establishing a parklet program as the amenity has been vital to restaurant success throughout COVID. They shared some of their existing maintenance routines with the temporary pop-ups and emphasized their desire to continue the temporary pop-up program until the City has a permanent program in place. There was some interest in allowing overhead roofs and for the City to explore a plug-in lighting option. There was a suggestion that the City consider a grant program to off-set the cost of constructing the parklets. Additionally, they requested that staff continue to work with DSRSD to waive the sewer fee as this fee may make establishment of a permanent parklet infeasible for some restaurants. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT The project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to section 15301 of the CEQA Guidelines, as it consists of a minor alteration of an existing public facility. SUMMARY/CONCLUSION As described above, at the direction of the City Council staff has prepared the outline for a parklet program that addresses appropriate location, size, and design guidelines, and includes a new permit process and fees. Most of the temporary pop-ups installed downtown today will not comply with this program. However, some of the structures may comply with minor alterations (e.g., removal of pop-up tents, treatment of the wood, and providing the City with necessary plans to confirm the structural/engineering integrity of the structure). Throughout COVID, the temporary pop-ups have been successful at activating the street, providing some economic relief to restaurants, and expanding outdoor dining opportunities to the community. However, the pop-ups have not been up to the aesthetic standards expected in downtown Pleasanton. There have also been conflicts between existing pop-up locations and utility and street maintenance. Staff sees value in proceeding with a parklet program which can continue to encourage the added vitality downtown. However, staff believes the program should entail strict guidelines as noted above. The Commission can consider recommending no parklet program be approved, recommend a parklet program be approved as described by staff, or recommend a parklet program be approved as described by staff with modifications. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Planning Commission review the proposed parklet program, provide direction on the various elements of the program including any additional guidelines the Commission would like to see incorporated, and provide a recommendation to the City Council. Primary Author: Megan Campbell, Associate Planner 925-931-5610 or mcampbell(cr�cityofpleasantonca.gov. Reviewed/Approved By: Melinda Denis, Planning and Permit Center Manager Ellen Clark, Director of Community Development Parklets Planning Commission 12 of 12