Question: Will any trees be removed for this project?
Answer: No trees will be removed. Some minor tree trimming may be needed to allow drill rigs access to the sites for critical well drilling operations, but this will be as limited as possible. All tree trimming will be supervised by licensed arborists to ensure that the health and appearance of the trees is preserved. In addition, the City arborist and consultants are working to prepare a Tree Protection Plan for the project, requiring contractors to implement numerous safeguards to prevent accidental damage to trees during construction.
Question: What will I see after the wells are constructed?
Answer: At the park site, the well head will be visible above ground. The project will also construct a new deck and information kiosk for garden users. At the Library/community gardens site, the well head will be enclosed in a small decorative building. The project will be designed to create an attractive, atmospheric entrance to the community garden area. Click here to see architect’s draft renderings of post-construction appearance at the two sites.
Eleanor Pardee Park Well Perspective Library/Community Gardens Well Perspective
Question: Who do I contact if I have questions or concerns?
Answer: Please direct all questions and concerns to the City of Palo Alto Utilities Department (Romel.Antonio@cityofpaloalto.org).
Question: What will be done to reduce noise from the 24-hour drilling operation?
Answer: Noise control measures will include sound barriers and use of whisper-quiet generators. No hauling, deliveries or vehicle back-up alarms will be allowed between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
Question: Will drilling cause vibration?
Answer: There will be no perceptible vibration during drilling.
Question: How will garden plots at the community gardens (Pardee and Library) be affected during construction?
Answer: Garden users will have full access and use during construction at both sites. Alternate access routes may be needed during parts of the construction process; please watch for signage with additional information.
Question: Will the Library operate under normal hours during construction?
Answer: Yes.
Question: Will park use be affected during construction?
Answer: No; the park will remain in full use.
Question: Do you anticipate any traffic impacts due to construction activities at or near the two locations?
Answer: Long-term traffic rerouting for construction will not be needed, although traffic may be redirected or some lanes may be closed during the brief periods when construction equipment is accessing or leaving the work sites or when the new wells are connected to the water distribution system. These activities will be timed to avoid peak traffic hours. Full access to the Library, park and garden plots will be maintained throughout construction.
Question: How can I get additional information about the Emergency Water Supply Wells Project?
- Email us at: Romel.Antonio@cityofpaloalto.org
- Call or fax the Utilities Department: Phone 650-566-4504, FAX 650-566-4536
Question: What is the purpose of the Emergency Water Supply Wells Project?
Answer: The project will provide an additional, local source of water, improving the reliability of the City's water supply during emergencies or other interruptions to supply delivered from outside the area.
Question: Who will benefit from the new wells?
Answer: The project will benefit all City of Palo Alto water users by improving the reliability and efficiency of the City’s water system.
