Palo Alto Seeks Input On Transit Connection Project

PALO ALTO, CA — Palo Alto residents have until Nov. 5 to weigh in on plans for a new transit connection designed to reduce bus travel times and improve access to the city's transit center.

The Quarry Road Transit Connection project would create a dedicated roadway for buses and shuttles between El Camino Real and the Palo Alto Transit Center, according to a city announcement published Tuesday.

City officials estimate the connection could shorten bus trips by three to five minutes by allowing transit vehicles to bypass congested areas near University Avenue and University Circle.

The project also includes protected bicycle lanes, upgraded pedestrian crossings and improved pathways through El Camino Park. Proposed intersection changes include high-visibility crosswalks and measures to reduce vehicle turning speeds.

With design work nearing 60% completion, the city is seeking feedback on two alternatives.

Alternative A would keep construction within the existing project boundaries. Alternative B would require additional land, potentially increasing costs and extending the project timeline.

The City Council approved a cost-sharing agreement with Stanford University in November 2025 to support design and engineering work, which is expected to continue through mid-2027.

The proposal follows voter approval of Measure D in November 2024, when 74% of Palo Alto voters supported allowing a portion of El Camino Park to be used for the transit connection.

Under the plan, the roadway could occupy up to 0.33 acres of the park. Any land not needed for the project would retain its parkland designation.

Officials expect to present the public feedback to the City Council at a tentative Nov. 9 meeting.