Good morning neighbors!

Welcome to this week’s Palo Alto Scoop!

In this week’s newsletter, learn more about the new townhomes going up in Palo Alto, the pedestrian bridge, and a new Chinese restaurant in Palo Alto. Plus, find out what events are happening going into the holidays!

Let’s dive in! 👇

🌉 New bridge in East Palo Alto officially links neighborhoods once divided by highway

After decades of division by the freeway, a newly opened pedestrian and bike bridge finally connects the previously separated west- and east-side neighborhoods in East Palo Alto,  a step many say restores community cohesion. The overpass replaces a dangerous onramp crossing and includes ramps, lighting, landscaping and safer access, making it easier for families, commuters, and neighbors to cross the divide. Read more here. 

🏘️ State laws clear path for townhome project near the Baylands

Recent changes in state housing law have bolstered a townhome project planned near the Palo Alto Baylands, making it easier for developers to move forward with denser housing proposals. Local officials say the law helps streamline approvals and supports regional goals for more housing near transit and job centers. Neighbors are following the proposal with interest, since new townhomes could change local traffic patterns and neighborhood character while also adding needed homes to the area. As the project advances, city meetings will be the place to raise questions and learn more about timelines and design details. Read more here.

🥂 Après Village | East Palo Alto | Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley | 12/10 - 1/4 | more
Sip festive drinks and enjoy seasonal bites in a chic hotel pop-up setting.

🚂 Gilded, Thistlewyck, and Holiday Lights | Woodside | Filoli | through 1/12 | more
Kick off the season at Filoli with tiny trains, twinkling lights, and festive wonder.

🛍️ Holiday Market | Los Altos | State Street | 12/11 | more
Browse local makers and holiday vendors in downtown Los Altos.

🎬 Sensory Friendly Screening: Brave | Menlo Park | Library | 12/12 | more
A low-sensory movie screening designed for a comfortable, inclusive experience.

🌙 Festive Night | Los Gatos | New Museum | 12/12 | more
Enjoy an evening of art, music, and seasonal celebration.

📚 Family Fun Day: Winter Wonderland | Los Altos | Los Altos Library | 12/13 | more
A family-friendly event with crafts, games, and winter activities.

🚂 CalTrain Holiday Train | Palo Alto | CalTrain Station | 12/13 | more
A magical train decked with lights brings music and holiday cheer to local stations.

🎅 Hometown Holidays | Redwood City | Downtown | 12/13 | more
Celebrate the holidays with a parade, entertainment, and festive fun for families.

📚 Family Fun Days: Winter Wonderland | Los Altos | Community Center | 12/13 | more
A community-focused winter event full of crafts and family-friendly activities.

🌸 Festive Watercolor Botanical Cards Workshop | Palo Alto | Gamble Garden | 12/14 | more
Learn watercolor techniques to create botanical-themed holiday cards in a guided workshop.

🎁 Holiday Toy Drive | Palo Alto | Various Drop Off Locations | 12/14 | more
Donate toys to help local children enjoy a joyful holiday season.

🕎 Chanukah Festival | Redwood City | Courthouse Square | 12/14 | more
Celebrate Chanukah with music, food, and community festivities in downtown Redwood City.

🕯️ Grand Menorah Lighting | Los Altos | Veterans Community Plaza | 12/14 | more
Join the community for a meaningful menorah lighting and celebration.

📬 Santa Letters | Palo Alto | All Fire Stations | 12/18 | more
Drop off letters to Santa to receive a personalized response before the holidays.

🎬 Sensory Friendly Screening: Moana | Menlo Park | Library | 12/19 | more
A relaxed, inclusive screening of a beloved family film.

🎶 Charlie Brown Christmas Tribute | Menlo Park | Guild Theatre | 12/20 | more
Enjoy a live musical tribute to the timeless A Charlie Brown Christmas score.