Planning commission asks for traffic counts and soil testing for Lower South Street special permit

Planning staff provided a follow-up on the 1050 Lower South Street special permit public hearing. The Planning Commission declined to issue a negative declaration under environmental review and asked the applicant to provide additional information, including detailed truck counts (current and projected), peak-use patterns, and soil testing given the site's history. Staff said the applicant's recent clarification indicated "140 vehicles," which staff noted includes employee cars and not only heavy trucks, and that the commission wants worst‑case and typical‑use traffic data to assess potential air‑quality impacts.

Council members pressed for written clarification of vehicle types, employee counts and possible restrictions the city could include in a special permit to enforce limits if the project proceeds. Staff said they would obtain written clarifications from the applicant and consult counsel about enforcement mechanisms and special‑permit conditions.