REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Completion of Workplan Project ID CO-24 - Council Priority Project DPW 24-08: Feasibility of Converting PG&E-Owned Lots Facing Ramona Avenue, Lois Avenue, and/or Dona Avenue into an Open Green Space Linear Park (Information Only)
Report
BACKGROUND
At the February 15, 2024 City Council meeting, Council approved Study Issue DPW 24-08. The study was prompted by requests from residents at Parks and Recreation Commission meetings, who asked the City to explore converting the fenced-in PG&E lots facing Ramona Avenue, Lois Avenue, and Dona Avenue into public mini-parks with drought-tolerant native landscaping.
PG&E owns the land, except for 20-foot-wide strips on either side facing immediately adjacent homes, which are owned by the City. At the time the study was initiated, both PG&E and the City were providing minimal maintenance of the area. The intent of the study was for staff to work with PG&E to determine the requirements for public use, conduct robust neighborhood outreach, and survey the neighborhood to determine opinions about park features, services, and compatible uses such as drought-tolerant Miyawaki Pocket Forests, a nature walkway for bicycle and pedestrian access, open lawn space, a community vegetable garden, and native plantings to support threatened species such as the Monarch Butterfly.
The study was estimated to take approximately two years to complete, with a planned completion year in Fiscal Year 2025/26 and a budget of $75,000.
EXISTING POLICY
General Plan Policy, Chapter 3 Land Use and Transportation LT-9.1: Ensure that the planned availability of open space in both the City and the region is adequate.
DISCUSSION
Staff contacted PG&E to explore the feasibility of allowing public use of the utility corridor lots. Over the course of two years, staff made repeated attempts to engage PG&E to obtain a clear and definitive response regarding the City's proposal. Despite staff's persistent efforts, obtaining a fo...
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