City Manager's routine updates on local affairs

Weekly City Manager Briefing

City Manager Ed Shikada’s latest updates reinforce Palo Alto’s ongoing commitment to transparent, inclusive governance and proactive community collaboration as the city advances critical initiatives spanning housing, public safety, climate resilience, and fiscal responsibility. Building on a foundation of innovation and partnership, Palo Alto continues to address complex urban challenges with thoughtful leadership—ensuring that resident voices remain central to policy development that balances growth, sustainability, and neighborhood character.

Strengthening Transparent and Inclusive Governance: Expanded Hybrid Engagement and Outreach

Palo Alto is raising the bar on accessible governance by expanding hybrid meeting formats, increasing digital transparency, and intensifying outreach efforts—particularly around the transformative San Antonio Area Plan and key housing projects:

The Planning & Transportation Commission’s hybrid meeting on February 25, 2026 facilitated robust public participation, allowing residents to engage both in person and remotely on development proposals.
A new recording of the February 23, 2026 City Council meeting has been posted on the city’s YouTube channel, supplementing recent session recordings and enhancing public access to deliberations and decision-making.
Public engagement for the San Antonio Area Plan has been significantly ramped up, utilizing innovative outreach strategies to connect with a broad and diverse cross-section of residents. This effort ensures land use policies will thoughtfully balance sustainable growth with neighborhood preservation.
Most notably, the Planning and Transportation Commission recently endorsed a supersized housing proposal on San Antonio Road, backing a 174-unit residential development—marking a substantial advancement in affordable housing supply within a key growth corridor.
Public comment remains open through mid-April on the Churchill Avenue railroad crossing closure, inviting community input on safety, access alternatives, and transportation impacts.

City Manager Shikada emphasized:

“Our expanded hybrid engagement model and targeted outreach ensure transparency and keep resident voices at the heart of every decision.”

These efforts underscore Palo Alto’s dedication to governance that is accessible, responsive, and grounded in true community partnership.

Housing, Development, and Homelessness: Accelerated Progress with Community-Centered Solutions

Palo Alto continues making steady strides in addressing housing affordability and homelessness, carefully balancing growth with neighborhood compatibility and community priorities:

The Alta Housing Project remains actively under development, with ongoing community involvement focusing on traffic management, parking solutions, and sensitive integration into existing neighborhoods.
Redevelopment plans for the Fry’s Electronics site, proposing 74 condominiums by a Sobrato affiliate, continue to spark thoughtful community dialogue regarding density and neighborhood impact.
The San Antonio housing project recently hit a major milestone as the Planning and Transportation Commission endorsed a significantly expanded proposal featuring 174 units, including a strong affordable housing component. This endorsement enhances prospects for delivering much-needed housing in a strategic location.
Additional residential proposals under review include:
- A six-story condominium near Channing House, currently under public hearings addressing building height and neighborhood fit.
- A proposed 321-unit apartment complex, where city staff recommended denying a lot merger due to infrastructure capacity and environmental concerns.
To expedite housing delivery without compromising transparency, the city is implementing permit processing improvements aimed at reducing wait times and clarifying procedures for developers and residents alike.
On homelessness, the City Council continues to support a pragmatic RV permit program that balances enforcement with access to supportive services.
Enforcement actions against unauthorized RV parking—including towing and street cleaning—remain a priority, eliciting a range of community responses.
New ordinances regulating public parking of detached trailers and RV landlords are actively enforced, contributing to neighborhood order and safety.
Regional partnerships, notably coordination with Sunnyvale hotels and social service agencies, have strengthened shelter placements and pathways toward permanent housing.

Shikada reflected:

“Balancing growth, affordability, and neighborhood character requires both firmness and compassion. Our evolving policies address complex realities with equity and pragmatism.”

Palo Alto’s multifaceted approach illustrates a firm commitment to affordable housing expansion, homelessness support, and neighborhood preservation through innovation and collaboration.

Public Safety and Mental Health: Rail Crossing Closure, Enhanced Services, and Community Vigilance

Following tragic incidents at the Churchill Avenue railroad crossing, Palo Alto has intensified safety measures and expanded mental health initiatives through data-driven, collaborative actions:

The permanent closure of the Churchill Avenue rail crossing has removed a critical safety hazard. The city continues to collect public input through mid-April to guide plans for alternative access and safety improvements.
Safety infrastructure upgrades now include new fencing and barriers along the entire Caltrain corridor within city limits, significantly reducing trespassing and unauthorized crossings.
Additional safety improvements underway encompass:
- Upgrades at all city rail crossings.
- Deployment of advanced surveillance and real-time hazard detection technologies.
- Close coordination with Caltrain and regional agencies to ensure seamless implementation and enhanced public safety.
Mental health services have expanded through partnerships offering grief counseling, crisis intervention, and community outreach to raise awareness about available resources.
These initiatives align with statewide suicide prevention programs championed by Assemblymember Marc Berman, including school- and community-based trainings.
Police have increased patrols to combat retail theft and burglaries, dedicating thousands of overtime hours to maintain public safety.
The Neighborhood Watch program is expanding, empowering residents with training and resources to enhance neighborhood vigilance.
A recent arrest following an attempted robbery at the Palo Alto bus depot (95 University Avenue) demonstrates ongoing law enforcement vigilance in transit areas.
Industrial safety remains a priority after two non-injury fire incidents at Tesla’s lithium-ion battery testing facility, prompting comprehensive safety reviews. Shikada affirmed:

“Innovation must never come at the expense of safety. Our regulatory vigilance protects residents and preserves our environment.”

A new safety concern emerged with the report of a missing person: Arthur “Art” Gonzalez, age 79, was last seen on February 25, 2026, around noon near the 3800 block of Miranda Avenue. The community is urged to assist in locating him.

Collectively, these efforts reaffirm Palo Alto’s dedication to comprehensive public safety, mental health support, and infrastructure security.

Infrastructure Resilience and Climate Adaptation: Storm Response and Baylands Innovation

Recent spring storms tested Palo Alto’s infrastructure resilience and accelerated investments in climate adaptation strategies:

The city’s upgraded emergency alert system successfully disseminated timely flood warnings, enabling coordinated community and emergency responses.
Flooding on E Bayshore Road caused significant lane closures, underscoring the urgency of enhanced stormwater management solutions.
The ongoing Alameda Street modernization project integrates climate-resilient stormwater infrastructure with traffic, pedestrian, and bicycle safety improvements.
In response to resident concerns, planned vegetation maintenance near the Page Mill Road/280 interchange was postponed, reflecting responsiveness to community input.
The Emergency Services Volunteers (ESV) program celebrated its 20th anniversary, honoring dedicated responders and launching recruitment to expand community emergency response capacity.
The city hosted a virtual meeting on February 26 for the Biosolids Facility Plan, bringing together Palo Alto and Regional Water Quality Control Plant representatives to discuss sustainable wastewater treatment strategies, underscoring regional collaboration.
Progress continues on the flagship horizontal living levee project in the Baylands, a pioneering nature-based climate adaptation initiative that combines native vegetation with engineered soils to mitigate sea-level rise and flooding while enhancing habitat.

These initiatives exemplify Palo Alto’s forward-looking climate resilience strategy and commitment to safeguarding infrastructure and communities.

Urban Forestry and Environmental Stewardship: Cultivating the Urban Canopy and Engaging Residents

Environmental stewardship remains a cornerstone of Palo Alto’s sustainable urban vision:

Recent assessments show modest improvements in urban tree health despite ongoing drought stress and maintenance challenges.
The City is intensifying irrigation and strategic pruning to protect vulnerable trees and reduce hazards, promoting long-term canopy resilience.
Educational campaigns encourage residents to participate actively in tree stewardship, fostering shared responsibility for the urban canopy.
Partnerships with nonprofits and volunteers continue to advance air quality initiatives, climate adaptation efforts, and neighborhood beautification.
Cultural-environmental programs such as the Earth Art at the EcoCenter series engage residents through sustainability-themed artistic expression.
The Downtown Mural Program enriches public spaces with diverse artworks celebrating Palo Alto’s cultural and environmental vitality.

Together, these efforts affirm the City’s commitment to environmental stewardship through community collaboration and climate-conscious action.

Cultural Vitality, Inclusion, and Service Delivery: A Flourishing Community

Palo Alto’s cultural scene continues to thrive with dynamic programming and strong community participation:

The recent Lunar New Year Fair at Mitchell Park set attendance records, featuring multicultural performances, cuisine, and workshops that foster intercultural understanding.
Youth arts programming remains vibrant, including the Teen Arts Council’s Valentine’s Masquerade Ball and the Teen-Led Lantern Festival at Magical Bridge Park, nurturing creativity and social connection.
International music star Bad Bunny’s acquisition of a downtown restaurant post-Super Bowl adds fresh energy to the local hospitality landscape.
The new “Open Doors: Drop In” program at the Y offers recreational social nights for adults with diverse abilities, reflecting Palo Alto’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and wellness.
Volunteer-led cultural events at Mitchell Park continue to enrich community life with music, art, and shared experiences.

Service delivery improvements include:

Streamlined permit processing that reduces development approval wait times.
Upgraded utility billing systems and online portals enhancing transparency and convenience for residents.
Adjusted Utility Rate Schedules S-1, S-2, S-6, and S-7 to balance fiscal responsibility with customer impact.
Launch of the Rebate Hub, a centralized resource for energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainability upgrades.
Expanded digital library and recreation programming offering workshops on sustainability, digital literacy, and wellness.

These advancements demonstrate Palo Alto’s dedication to inclusivity, innovation, and enriching community life.

Community Safety and Local Heritage: Youth Engagement and Educational Partnerships

Palo Alto prioritizes safety and heritage preservation through targeted youth programs:

School safety initiatives have reached hundreds of middle and high school students, promoting awareness, inclusivity, and community stewardship.
Partnerships with local schools and community organizations cultivate programs that safeguard learning environments while celebrating Palo Alto’s rich history.

This multifaceted focus nurtures a culture of vigilance, inclusion, and pride among younger generations.

Fiscal Sustainability: Transparent Budgeting Amid Economic Pressures

Facing a growing budget gap driven by shifting revenues and economic pressures, Palo Alto is responsibly deploying financial reserves to maintain short-term stability while actively pursuing long-term fiscal solutions:

City leadership remains committed to transparency, openly engaging residents in budgeting processes and sustainable financial planning.

City Manager Shikada reiterated:

“Our budgeting process remains open and accountable. We are engaging residents as we plan for a sustainable financial future.”

This transparent approach fosters community trust and informed participation in critical financial decisions.

Looking Ahead: Continued Engagement and Key Planning Milestones

Palo Alto anticipates several important developments and ongoing opportunities for resident involvement:

The Planning & Transportation Commission will continue deliberations on key development proposals and policy updates following its February 25 hybrid meeting.
Outreach for the San Antonio Area Plan will expand with additional channels for resident input, shaping the city’s growth and land use strategies.
Public comment on the Churchill Avenue rail crossing closure remains open through mid-April, informing safety and access planning.

City Manager Shikada concluded:

“Our city’s strength lies in the partnership between leadership and community. Your voices guide our decisions, your vigilance safeguards our neighborhoods, and your creativity enriches our culture.”

Conclusion

As Palo Alto navigates the intricate challenges of growth, public safety, climate change, and fiscal pressures, its comprehensive and collaborative approach—anchored in transparent governance, inclusive engagement, and regional partnerships—lays a solid foundation for a resilient, equitable, and thriving future. From accelerated housing progress and proactive rail safety enhancements to strategic infrastructure investments like the Baylands living levee and innovative wastewater planning, alongside a vibrant cultural scene and improved service delivery, the city demonstrates unwavering dedication to preserving its unique character while nurturing sustainable communities for all.

Residents are encouraged to remain active participants through hybrid meetings, volunteer programs, planning initiatives, and cultural events as Palo Alto shapes its path forward. Additionally, the community’s assistance is sought in locating Arthur “Art” Gonzalez, last seen near Miranda Avenue on February 25, underscoring the city’s commitment to safety and support for all residents.

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