Anderson-Pacific representatives handed out a “frequently asked questions” flier at this past weekend’s community update. The flier is available on their website, but I have included the complete FAQ below…

Q: When will construction begin in the Waterfront?

A: Subject to the environmental, City and agency approval process, it is anticipated that certain areas within the project area can begin construction in early 2009. The most likely areas are: Clubhouse renovation; Administration Building; Lot 16 (north-east portion of Block C); and infrastructure for John Muir Parkway on the Village site. HBL is currently working with the City and the various local and State agencies to move as quickly as possible.

Q: What is the status of the environmental review process?

A: Preparation of certain technical studies for the Project EIR are underway. The full EIR is anticipated to be complete during the first half of 2009.

Q: What is the status of the Train and Ferry?

A: Union Pacific Railroad Company has given verbal approval to the alignment of the tracks. The City is waiting for full written approval, which is expected within the next 60 days. The former WTA (Water Transit Authority) has now re-organized as the WETA (Water Emergency Transit Authority) and has begun the process of funding projects on the books. Hercules is among the farthest ahead projects they have. With additional funds from Homeland Security, the City is very optimistic that the Hercules project will move forward at a faster pace. The EIR is now under administrative review by WETA staff prior to being submitted to the Federal government for their review and comment. The City is hopeful that the document is available in August 2008.

Q: What is the status of the Point park?

A: HBL and the City/Agency agree that there must be a joint application for use of the Point as open space.Discussions are being held between the parties as to the best strategy and most efficient and timely approach to the planning issues.

Q: Will there be a Bay Trail that provides access to the shoreline? What about the Ridge Trail?

A: There will be a connection to the existing Bay Trail that continues along the railroad tracks, providing the community with access to the shoreline and the commercial uses facing the bay. The project will include a connection to the Ridge Trail along John Muir Parkway and will join the Bay Trail at the water’s edge.

Q: Will there be enough parking to prevent an overflow on residential side-streets?

A: A successful parking design is both a function of parking supply and parking management. There will be an adequate supply of parking provided adjacent to the commercial and transit uses and the potential problem of overflow parking on residential side-streets will be addressed through the careful design and implementation of Residential Permit Parking or Parking Benefit District programs. In order to discourage commuters or patrons from parking in the residential districts, these programs will establish time limits and/or pricing to manage commuter and commercial parking demands. The City of Hercules has already begun to look into these programs as part of a study prepared by Carl Walker and HBL is currently working with Nelson/Nygaard, a transportation planner and a common consultant for the City to address these issues.

Q: What type of businesses will be included in the Waterfront area?

A: The commercial area (retail, flex, & office) within the Waterfront will largely depend on the market conditions prior to construction. The plan will allow for a variety of different uses ranging from neighborhood serving retail,boutique shops, cafes, coffee shops and restaurants, to local business offices, financial and medical services, daycare, recreation facilities, live-work spaces, studios and satellite offices relocated from other cities.

Q: What is the status of the two lots located on Bayfront Boulevard?

A: The owner, Mr. David Cury, has indicated that he wants to amend his plans for the project. His current plans call for a building type similar to his project on Railroad Ave, where the flex/retail space on the ground floor is physically and legally connected to the residential space above. The revised plan would allow the retail on the ground floor to be connected horizontally (physically and legally) so a far broader range of retail uses could be accommodated. The City/Agency is waiting for a re-submittal of said plans in order to fully evaluate the impacts of the potential suggested use.