Return to CalPERS Headquarters Master Plan Project Page

CalPERS Headquarters Expansion Master Plan

Workshop #6: Presentation of the Preferred Master Plan

April 12, 2000

On April 12, approximately 55 people attended a presentation at Lincoln Plaza of the CalPERS headquarters final master plan as adopted by the CalPERS R Street Subcommittee. The presentation included a history of the master planning process; a briefing of the results of the CalPERS R Street Subcommittee meeting on March 10, and an open question and answer session.

 

The "preferred alternative" that was adopted as the "final master plan" reflected the "Verde" master plan strategy. This strategy includes:

Workshop Summary

The attendees asked a variety of questions. These questions, and the CalPERS team responses, are summarized below.

Is project subject to environmental review?

Answer: Yes, in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the project is generating an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The Draft EIR will be available for public comment in early June 2000.

Where is the childcare center going to be located? What are the other retail uses going to be?

Answer: The location of the childcare center is contemplated off of 4th Street. Retail is a key element of this project, but no formal tenant list has been developed at this time. There has been an expression of interest in several uses including a dry cleaners, restaurant and a grocery store.

What work is CalPERS doing in assessing the market conditions for the housing?

Answer: A market study is still being analyzed and revised. We are working in concert with the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency to better understand the market conditions for our specific site. We are optimistic about the prospects of housing in the area immediate to the Headquarters expansion site. The actual residential developer will ultimately evaluate the market conditions and determine whether the housing is for rent or for sale. It is possible that some housing will be for sale, but the amount will probably be minimal. It should be noted that the residential project will be on a separate development track with its own life cycle.

Will traffic be two-way on 4th and 5th Streets? How will CalPERS make Q Street safer?

Answer: This is an area that is currently being studied very closely by the project traffic engineers. We met with RT officials regarding the possibility of a light rail extension down R Street. However, RT, at this time, is not interested in building a spur into this area. They have expressed an interest in extending bus service, more routes and adapting the time schedule.

Can you update us as to the CalPERS parking requirement and situation?

Answer: We just completed a recent in-house transportation survey that indicated there has been a decline in carpooling. An outreach program will be developed and implemented by the CalPERS Operations Service Support Division with the assistance of a consultant in order to increase carpooling. There is also potential for CalPERS to obtain access to off-site parking under the WX freeway.

How will Lincoln Plaza and the new building be connected (above grade, below grade or at grade)?

Answer: Each of these options will be analyzed thoroughly. At this time no decision has been made, and we don't anticipate one in the near future. Any alternative other than an at grade connection is expensive.

Will local companies be considered for the consulting roles on the project?

Answer: Yes. There will be many opportunities for those who may be interested in working on this project. And we anticipate there will be strong local representation.