The Town of Atherton City Council on May 20 discussed whether significant new development should be required to build interim pedestrian or bicycle-friendly frontage improvements along designated routes, but did not adopt a new standard. Staff asked for direction about setbacks, allowable surfaces and moving permanent fixtures out of the town right-of-way ahead of any future bicycle or pedestrian project.

Staff presentation and options: Public Works Director Robert Rivati summarized the existing frontage rules: the first 3 feet measured from the edge of the improved roadway must be pervious low ground cover no taller than 5 inches, the next 3 feet may be up to 3 feet tall, and fixtures (mailboxes, keypads, boulders) are generally set back 6 feet from the edge of the road. Rivati said most full-site developments already reconstruct frontage and that the town wants to avoid forcing residents or developers to install features that would be costly to remove if the town later installs a permanent facility.

Public and developer comments: Developer Rex Venato (Pacific Peninsula Group) said his subdivision posted a bond and delayed permanent frontage work because the design requirements were not clearly defined; he asked for clear, practical interim expectations that would be removable if a later bike/ped project is installed. Several residents, including Patty Spizzifera, said they opposed presuming a bike lane and worried about losing the town’s traditional appearance. Other commenters urged a firm, stable surface in the first few feet adjacent to the gutter so that people using wheelchairs, strollers or bicycles would not be forced into loose gravel.

Council reaction and direction: Council members expressed differing views. Several members said it would be premature to adopt broad, townwide frontage requirements before completing the bike-and-pedestrian master plan update. Multiple council members supported clearer guidance that the first few feet adjacent to the roadway be a firm, stable surface suitable for pedestrians, wheelchairs and bikes when developers rebuild frontage; others cautioned against prescribing a wide mandatory setback (council discussion raised 3–5 feet as a likely range and rejected an immediate 10-foot requirement).

Outcome and next steps: The council did not change the municipal code at the meeting. Staff will continue the master-plan update with the Transportation Committee, coordinate outreach to affected neighborhoods, and return with refined recommendations. In the meantime, existing frontage rules remain in force for active projects. Staff will consider options that balance accessibility (firm, stable surface), permeability/stormwater treatment requirements, and the need to protect trees and allow driveway/gate access.