City Council reviews zoning changes to improve underground parking along El Camino

The Palo Alto City Council meeting on May 27, 2025, highlighted significant discussions around urban development and zoning regulations, particularly concerning the integration of underground parking and the impact of state laws on local housing affordability.

Council members expressed a strong desire to remove below-grade setbacks that hinder the construction of underground parking. One member emphasized, "Those are getting in the way of underground parking... that makes sense to me," indicating a push for more efficient land use in the city. This aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance density along El Camino, where the council is keen on balancing development with community needs.

A notable point of contention arose regarding the state's new builder remedy law, which some council members believe undermines local affordability requirements. One member lamented, "It's unfortunate that we're having to respond to these builder remedy... lowering our affordability requirements," while also advocating for the city’s current success in achieving a 20% Below Market Rate (BMR) housing rate.

The council also discussed the potential for future adjustments to zoning regulations, particularly concerning properties with unique features, such as those adjacent to natural amenities like creeks. The idea of contextual zoning was raised, suggesting that certain properties might warrant different considerations based on their specific characteristics.

As the council prepares for a second reading of these discussions, they are tasked with providing clear direction to staff on how to proceed with proposed changes. The outcome of these deliberations could significantly shape Palo Alto's urban landscape and housing strategy in the coming years.