Stanford Healthcare Tri Valley proposes expansion of emergency department to address capacity issues

The Pleasanton Planning Commission held a significant meeting on May 28, 2025, where discussions centered around the proposed expansion of the Stanford Healthcare Tri Valley emergency department. This expansion aims to address the growing demand for emergency services in the community, which has seen a nearly 30% increase in patient visits over the past decade without a corresponding increase in space.

During the meeting, Mino Sastry, the interim CEO of Stanford Healthcare Tri Valley, presented plans for a modest expansion that includes 24 additional treatment bays and three triage rooms. This expansion is crucial for improving patient care and reducing wait times, as the current emergency department often operates beyond its capacity, with approximately 2,000 patients leaving without being seen each year.

The proposed project will also enhance the hospital's resilience in the event of natural disasters, incorporating necessary infrastructure improvements such as new emergency water and wastewater storage tanks. The expansion is designed to fit within the existing development standards and will not require additional parking for the initial phase, although future plans may include more parking as the facility grows.

Commissioners raised questions about traffic impacts, particularly concerning the entrance to the emergency department off Santa Rita Road. While the traffic engineering department did not find it necessary to implement immediate changes, they acknowledged that future expansions could trigger a reevaluation of traffic flow and potential improvements, such as adding a turn lane.

The meeting highlighted the importance of the hospital as a vital community resource, emphasizing the need for continued investment in healthcare infrastructure to meet the demands of Pleasanton residents. As the project moves forward, it represents a step towards enhancing local healthcare services and ensuring that residents have access to timely and effective emergency care.