Reso PC22-06 0079 PC Reso Recommending Certification of the SEIR

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Findings and Statements Required by the California Environmental Quality Act Redwood City Transit District DTPP Amendments 53 ESA / 202100421.00 Subsequent Environmental Impact Report October 2022 calming measures. The addition of separated bicycle facilities would decrease exposure of bicyclists to vehicles. The conversion of Hamilton Street between Franklin Street and the Caltrain right-of-way to a potential privately owned, publicly accessible open space will allow a safe path-of travel for pedestrians and bicyclists between the Transit District area and Downtown. The Transit District DTPP Amendments would also enable the City to accommodate a four-track station with longer platforms. In addition, grade separations of the railroad and surface streets are needed to increase safety, preserve traffic flow, and accommodate the new hub station. This station would also enable for more convenient and frequent Caltrain service not only for the City but for the Peninsula as a whole. Lastly, the improvements would support active transportation consistent with RWCmoves, Citywide Transportation Plan, the El Camino Real Corridor Plan, and in-progress Vision Zero strategy. 4. Compliance with State mandates. Assembly Bill 32 (AB 32), the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, required that GHG emissions be reduced to 1990 levels by 2020. The State has determined that cities must implement land use strategies, such as dense and walkable infill development in more dense, urban areas, as part of their AB 32 strategy. SB 375, the Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act of 2008, goes further, requiring dramatic regional reductions in tailpipe emissions from passenger vehicles through transportation, land use, and housing policies—particularly through slowing suburban sprawl and encouraging modes of transportation other than private automobiles. 2016, Senate Bill 32 (SB 32) established a new climate pollution reduction target of 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. The DTPP was an important part of Redwood City’s obligation to comply with AB 32, as amended by SB 32, and SB 375 by encouraging and facilitating compact and pedestrian-oriented development near new and existing jobs, services, and transit. The Transit District DTPP Amendments would similarly accommodate compact development and pedestrian-oriented improvements in proximity to transit options, in furtherance of compliance with SB 32 and SB 375. Also, state housing laws require cities, even built-out cities like Redwood City, to facilitate a reasonable share of regional growth. By increasing the residential development capacity of the Transit District area for housing opportunities, the Transit District DTPP Amendments are an important part of fulfilling the obligations as put forth in the current state-certified Redwood City Housing Element. 5. Enhanced economic development. The DTPP encouraged and facilitated high-quality, context-sensitive development, and thus, helped support economic development. Similarly, future office, residential and retail development that would occur under the Transit District DTPP Amendments will enable patrons to be within easy reach of Downtown shops and restaurants, increasing those businesses potential for success. Increased economic activity within the Transit District area will add value to Downtown historical resources in the Transit District vicinity, increasing the likelihood of adaptive re- use and reducing the odds of neglect; in particular, the Transit District DTPP Amendments would allow for up to 1.23 million square feet of new office space, accounting for approximately 5,340 permanent office jobs. Increased property values and retail sales will