R10740City Council Meeting 3 -19 -13
Santa Monica, California
RESOLUTION NUMBER 10740 (CCS)
(City Council Series)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA MONICA ADOPTING THE MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE COLORADO
ESPLANADE PROJECT
WHEREAS, a Notice of Intent to Adopt an Initial Study and Mitigated Negative
Declaration for the Colorado Esplanade Project was published in the Santa Monica
Daily Press and City Planning Website on May 8, 2012, in compliance with the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the City of Santa Monica CEQA
Guidelines; and
WHEREAS, the Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration was made
available for public comment for 30 -days, beginning on May 8, 2012 and ending on
June 8, 2012; and
WHEREAS, on March 19, 2013, the City Council, as Lead Agency, reviewed the
Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Program.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA MONICA
DOES RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
1
SECTION 1. The City Council finds that the Initial Study and Mitigated Negative
Declaration identified potentially significant impacts with respect to Biological
Resources, and Construction Effects related to Hazards and Hazardous Materials,
Noise, and Transportation/Traffic, and that these impacts would be reduced to less than
significant levels with the incorporation of mitigation measures imposed on the project.
No impacts would occur or impacts would be less than significant with respect to the
following issues: Aesthetics, Agriculture and Forestry Resources, Air Quality, Cultural
Resources, Geology and Soils, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Hydrology and Water
Quality, Land Use and Planning, Mineral Resources, Population and Housing, Public
Services, Shadows, Transportation/Traffic (operations), Utilities, and Mandatory
Findings of Significance.
SECTION 2. The City Council has reviewed and considered the Initial Study
and Mitigated Negative Declaration, and the Mitigation Monitoring Program, together
with the comments received during the public review process, prior to acting on the
project.
SECTION 3. The City Council finds, based on the whole record before it,
including the Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration and any comments
received, that with incorporation of the proposed mitigation measures, there is no
substantial evidence that the project will have a significant effect on the environment,
and that the Mitigated Negative Declaration reflects the City's independent judgment
and analysis. Therefore, the City Council hereby adopts the Mitigation Negative
Declaration.
2
SECTION 4. Consistent with Public Resources Code Section 21081.6 (a) (1),
the City Council adopts the Mitigation Monitoring Program, which is included as Exhibit
A, to mitigate or avoid significant effects of the project on the environment and ensure
compliance during project implementation.
SECTION 5. Consistent with Public Resources Code Section 21081.6 (a) (2),
the documents which constitute the record of proceedings for approving this project are
located in the Planning and Community Development Department, 1685 Main Street,
Room 212, Santa Monica, California. The custodian of these documents is Sarah
Lejeune, Principal Planner.
SECTION 6. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution, and
thenceforth and thereafter the same shall be in full force and effect.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
3
Exhibit
City of
Colorado Avenue Esplanade
Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments
Mitigation Monitoring Program
June 20, 2012
Prepared for:
City of Santa Monica
Planning and Community Development Department
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Prepared by:
Atkins
12301 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 430
Los Angeles, CA 90025
ERRATA TO THE COLORADO ESPLANADE MND
CITY OF SANTA MONICA
PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
1685 MAIN STREET
SANTA MONICA, CA 90401
ERRATA TO THE COLORADO ESPLANADE MND
This document provides minor revisions to the Colorado Esplanade Initial Study /Mitigated
Negative Declaration [MND] (State Clearinghouse No. 2012051029). The minor revisions do not
change the conclusions in the MND and are as follows with additional language presented in
underline.
Page 3, Section 8 (Description of Project), second full paragraph, add the following language as
follows:
Substantial landscaping, decorative free - standing signs, markers, bike racks, and other
streetscape treatments would be provided throughout the Esplanade to delineate the
pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicle zones. Appropriate design components will be incorporated
into the Colorado Esplanade to provide for safe and efficient vehicular ingress /egress and
deliveries at the properties located on the south side of Colorado Avenue between Fourth Street
and Ocean Avenue through the installation of bike box and stop bar striping, pedestrian
bollards, and differentiated pavement treatment at driveways. In addition, the signal at
Colorado /2nd /Main will include a combination of bicycle signal heads, vehicle signal heads,
and pedestrian indications which will allow the flexibility of signal operations to provide lead or
lag protected /permissive left -turns for vehicles.
es Errata to the Colorado Esplanade MND
March 2013
Page 2 of 2
X91 k' 114 il k
Introduction
Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures ...........................:........................................ ..............................8
Regional Location Map ....................................................................................................... ..............................5
Environmental Factors Potentially Affected ......................................................................... .............................14
Figure2
Determination............................................................................................................................. .............................14
EnvironmentalIssues .................................................................................................................. .............................15
Project Site Plan ....................................................................................................................... ..............................7
References................................................................................................................................. ...............................
81
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS/ MND .......................................... .............................82
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project ............. ............................106
Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures ........................................................... ..............................8
Appendices
Appendix A City of Santa Monica Colorado Avenue Tree Study
Appendix B Air Quality Model Data
Appendix C Traffic Study
Figures
Figure1
Regional Location Map ....................................................................................................... ..............................5
Figure2
Project Site Location Map ................................................................................................... ..............................6
Figure3
Project Site Plan ....................................................................................................................... ..............................7
Tables
Table SUM -1
Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures ........................................................... ..............................8
Table AIR -1
Estimated Peak Daily Construction Emissions in Pounds per Day ........................ .............................22
Table AIR -2
Total On -Site Construction Emissions and Localized Significance Thresholds .. .............................23
Table GHG -1
Estimated Annual CO2e Emissions .................................................................................. .............................33
Table LU -1
Consistency with Relevant LUCE Policies ..................................................................... .............................42
Table NOI -1
Noise Ranges of Typical Construction Equipment .................................................... .............................54
Table NOI -2
Typical Outdoor Construction Noise Levels ................................................................. .......................:.....55
Table NOI -3
Vibration Source Levels for Construction Equipment ............................................... .............................57
Table TRAF -1
City of Santa Monica Significant Impact Criteria Arterial and Collector Intersections* ...........62
Table TRAF -2
Existing Intersection Conditions ........................................................................................ .............................62
Table TRAF -3
Approval Year (Year 2012) Intersection Level of Service and Impact Analysis ...........................67
Table TRAF -4
Future Year (Year 2020) Intersection Level of Service and Impact Analysis .... .............................70
Table RTC -1
Comments on the IS/ MND ................................................................................................ .............................82
Table MMP -1
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project Mitigation Monitoring Program ............ ............................107
�s
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••,••••
Page 11 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Introduction
CITY OF SANTA MONICA
INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
AND NEIGHBORHOOD IMPACT STATEMENT
•'.
This checklist is to be completed for all projects that are subject to environmental review under
the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The information, analysis, and conclusions
contained in the checklist form the basis for deciding whether an environmental impact report
(EIR), a negative declaration (ND), or a mitigated negative declaration (MND) is to be prepared.
Additionally, the checklist shall be used to focus an EIR on the effects determined to be
potentially significant.
1. Project title:
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
2. Lead agency name and address:
City of Santa Monica
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90407
3. Contact person and phone number:
Rachel Kwok
(310) 458 -8341
4. Project location:
The project site extends along Colorado Avenue within public right -of -way (ROW) (streets,
sidewalks, and landscaped areas) from the future Expo light -rail transit (LRT) Downtown Santa
Monica Terminus Station at 41h Street (Expo LRT Station) to the entrance of the Santa Monica
Pier at Ocean Avenue. Additionally, the public right of way (ROW) adjacent to the future
Expo LRT Station, the northern sidewalk of Colorado Avenue from 41h to 51h Streets, and
limited areas north and south of Colorado Avenue on 2nd Street, Main Street, and 4 +h Street
are included in the project site. Refer to Figure 1 (Regional Location Map) and Figure 2
(Project Site Location Map).
S. Project sponsor's name and address:
Strategic and Transportation Planning
City of Santa Monica
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90407
6. General plan designation:
N/A (public street) —The project site consists of an existing public ROW, including streets,
sidewalks, and landscaped areas along Colorado Avenue and limited areas. The City's Land
Use and Circulation Element, adopted in early 2010, identifies the project site as being
located within the City's Downtown District and envisions the project site as the Colorado
a� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 1 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Introduction
Esplanade, a gateway into the City from the Expo light -rail transit (LRT) Station, and a
pedestrian- enhanced street that provides pedestrian and bicycle linkages between the
future Expo LRT Station, Downtown, the Civic Center, the future Palisades Garden Walk, the
Pier, and Palisades Park.
The project includes streetscape improvements, circulation modifications, and design
enhancements on existing roadways, sidewalks, and adjacent landscaped areas to achieve
the LUCE's vision for the Colorado Esplanade.
The City's land use designations of the immediate surrounding area of the project site are
Downtown Core, Parks and Open Space, Institutional /Public Lands, and Oceanfront District.
7. Zoning:
N/A (public street) —The project site consists of an existing public ROW, including streets,
sidewalks, open space and landscaped areas along Colorado Avenue and limited areas.
Zoning designations of the immediate surrounding area of the project site include C3
(Downtown Commercial), C3C (Downtown Overlay), CC (Civic Center), DP (Designated
Park), and RVC (Residential- Visitor Commercial).
8. Description of project (describe the whole action involved, including, but not limited to, later
phases of the project, and any secondary, support, or off -site features necessary for its
implementation):
The proposed Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project (proposed project) would implement
circulation modifications, streetscape improvements, and design enhancements to create a
gateway into the City from the Expo LRT Station; a multi -modal street that accommodates
pedestrians, transit users, bicyclists, and motorists; and connections between the Expo LRT
Station, Downtown, the Civic Center, and specific destinations such as the Palisades Garden
Walk, the Pier, and Palisades Park.
The project site extends along Colorado Avenue within the public ROW (streets, sidewalks,
and landscaped areas) from the future Expo LRT Station at 41h Street to Ocean Avenue
[inclusive of the intersection at Ocean and approximately 200 feet south of Colorado on
Ocean], as shown in Figure 2. Additionally, the northern sidewalk of Colorado Avenue from
4th to 5th Streets, Main Street within the public ROW south of Colorado Avenue to the 1 -10
freeway (fwy), the Main Street Triangle landscaped area, and 41h Street within the public
ROW just north of Colorado Avenue. Refer to Figure 2 for the boundaries of the project site.
The proposed project would transform Colorado Avenue within the project site into a multi -
modal street that supports pedestrian, transit, and bicycle users through the provision of
widened sidewalks, a two -way cycle track, a reduction in the number of vehicular lanes and
a change in vehicle flow, the realignment of Main Street to its 2nd Street connection to
comply with the circulation improvement outlined in the Civic Center Specific Plan,
enhanced crosswalks, and new signalization. Pedestrian and bicycle facilities would be
improved and expanded. The Main Street Triangle, an existing landscaped area located on
the south side of Colorado Avenue at Main Street, would be reconfigured by the roadway
alignment and improved to create a pedestrian gateway to the Civic Center District and
create a space for public gathering. The Colorado Avenue streetscape would be enhanced
with decorative paving, inlaid wayfinding, street furniture, lighting, landscaping, and public
art in order to improve the pedestrian realm.
As shown in Figure 3 (Project Site Plan) Colorado Avenue would be reconfigured to provide
a widened sidewalk (pedestrian promenade) and a cycle track on the south side, and two
A City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••,.•••• Page 2 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Introduction
westbound -only travel lanes. The pedestrian promenade along the south side of Colorado
Avenue would aggregate additional sidewalk onto the south side. Locating the widened
sidewalk on the south side would minimize potential areas of vehicle and pedestrian conflict
(e.g., driveway /sidewalk interface and roadway /sidewalk interface). The cycle track would
be provided also on the south side (between the south sidewalk and travel lanes) and would
allow bicycle travel in both directions. The cycle track would be separated from the
vehicular travel lanes by a buffer. The sidewalk along the north side of Colorado Avenue
would be maintained or expanded by up to 5 feet in width.
Vehicular travel on the Esplanade would be provided through two westbound -only travel
anes. Main Street would be realigned between the Main Street Bridge and Colorado
Avenue to connect with 2nd Street. The intersections of Colorado Avenue with 2nd
Street /Main Street and 4th Street would be improved with decorative crosswalks, inlaid
wayfinding, and new traffic signals for vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists
Substantial landscaping, decorative free - standing signs, markers, bike racks, and other
streetscape treatments would be provided throughout the Esplanade to delineate the
pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicle zones.
The intersection of 4th Street and Colorado Avenue and 2"d Street /Main Street and Colorado
Avenue would be modified according to the newly configured road geometry, with signal
phases and pedestrian crosswalks to accommodate vehicle movements and pedestrian
crossings. The paving materials at the intersections would be improved to mark the
pedestrian crossings. In addition, the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue
would be equipped with a new pedestrian scramble signal to facilitate pedestrian
movements across this intersection. The proposed project would be implemented in
coordination with the Palisades Garden Walk and the Expo LRT Station projects. Project
construction is anticipated to occur over a one -year period beginning in 2013. Minimal
grading would occur. Street furniture and facilities such as street and traffic lights, and their
serving utility connections, will need to be relocated when the south sidewalk is widened.
Existing street trees may be protected in place, removed and replaced, and /or relocated.
Existing utilities would be protected in place, and no major utility relocations are identified at
this time; however, design and construction of the newly configured Main to 2.d Street
connection will require coordination with a deep sewer access manhole and facility on the
south side of Colorado Avenue, just east of the Holiday Inn property.
9. Surrounding land uses and setting (briefly describe the project's surroundings):
The proposed project site lies within the southwestern portion of the City's Downtown district
and borders the Civic Center District to the south and Ocean Front District to the west. Land
uses in the immediate vicinity of the proposed project site include commercial, retail, office,
hotel, restaurant, and park uses. Immediately adjacent uses include the following:
• North —Santa Monica Place (shopping center), Santa Monica Place parking structure
with bike centers, two -story mixed use buildings with office above and ground -floor retail
and restaurants
• South —Leaf and Petal Company (nursery), Sears Department Store, Holiday Inn Hotel,
Interstate 10 (1 -10), City Hall, and Palisades Garden Walk (under construction)
• East —Bank of the West, future Expo LRT Station, mixed -use buildings, and commercial
uses
• West —Santa Monica Pier with restaurant.and entertainment uses, Pier parking lot, Santa
Monica Pier Pacific Park, Santa Monica Beach, and Palisades Park
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••••••••• Page 3 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Introduction
Development to the north of the project site within the City's Downtown is characterized by
a mix of high- activity uses including retail, office, entertainment, residential, hotel, and
restaurant uses. Notable developments in Downtown include the Third Street Promenade
and the Santa Monica Place mall. Notable development in the Civic Center Specific Plan
area to the south of the project site includes Santa Monica City Hall, the Los Angeles County
Court House, the Civic Auditorium, Rand office building, and the future Palisades Garden
Walk and the Village Mixed -Use Project.
10. Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or
participation agreement):
• Coastal Development Permit from Coastal Commission
• Amendment to the Civic Center Specific Plan
• Adoption of Mitigated Negative Declaration by City Council
• Project Approval by City Council
Because the proposed project will receive partial federal funding through a Metro grant, it is
also subject to the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and a
separate NEPA documentation subject to Caltrans approval will be prepared. No Caltrans
ROW will be affected by the proposed project and no encroachment permits are required.
0 City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••••••••• Page 4 of 119
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Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures
SUMMARY OF IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
The following table briefly describes the environmental issues relative to the proposed project
that require mitigation, proposed mitigation measures, and residual impacts.
Biological Resources
The proposed project could
MM 13I0-1 Avoidance of Nesting Birds. To
Less than
conflict with any local policies
prevent impacts to nesting birds protected
Significant
or ordinances protecting
under the MBTA and California Fish and Game
throuah the routine transport,
biological resources, such as a
Code, the City of Santa Monica shall enforce
tree preservation policy or
the following:
ordinance —Less Than
1. Where suitable vegetation and structures for
Significant with Mitigation
nesting birds occur within 200 feet of project
Incorporated.
construction activities, all phases of project
construction shall avoid the general nesting
season (March 1 through August 31).
2. If construction cannot avoid the general
nesting season, a qualified biologist shall be
retained to conduct a pre- construction
survey for nesting birds prior to clearing,
grading and /or construction activities on the
project site. The survey shall be conducted
within 72 hours prior to the start of
construction.
3. If any nesting birds are present within or
immediately adjacent to the proposed
project construction area, the following shall
be required:
The City of Santa Monica shall retain a qualified
biologist to flag and demarcate the location of
all nesting birds and monitor construction
activities. Temporary avoidance of active bird
nests, including the enforcement of an
avoidance buffer of 25 to 200 feet, depending
on the sensitivity of the species identified, as
determined by the qualified biological monitor,
shall be required until the qualified biological
monitor has verified that the young have
fledged or the nest has otherwise become
inactive.
Hazards and Hazardous Materials
The proposed project could
MM HAZ -1 In the event that previously unknown
Less Than
create a significant hazard to
or unidentified soil and /or groundwater
Significant
the public or the environment
contamination that could present a threat to
throuah the routine transport,
human health or the environment is
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••.• ...... Page 8 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures
use, or disposal of hazardous encountered during construction at the project
materials. site, construction activities in the immediate
vicinity of the contamination shall cease
immediately. A qualified environmental
specialist (e.g., a licensed Professional
Geologist [PGj, a licensed Professional Engineer
[PE] or similarly qualified individual) shall
conduct an investigation to identify and to
determine the level of soil and /or groundwater
contamination. If contamination is
encountered, a Risk Management Plan shall be
prepared and implemented that (1) identifies
the contaminants of concern and the potential
risk each contaminant would pose to human
health and the environment during
construction and post - development and
(2) describes measures to be taken to protect
workers, and the public from exposure to
potential site hazards. Such measures could
include a range of options, including, but not
limited to, physical site controls during
construction, remediation, long -term
monitoring, post - development maintenance or
access limitations, or some combination
thereof. Depending on the nature of
contamination, if any, appropriate agencies
shall be notified (e.g., Department of Toxic
Substances Control or Regional Water Quality
Control Board). If contamination is discovered,
a Site Health and Safety Plan that meets
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
requirements shall be prepared and in place
prior to commencement of work in any
contaminated area.
The proposed project could
MM HAZ -1 would apply to this impact.
Less than
create a significant hazard to
Significant
the public or the environment
through reasonably
foreseeable upset and
accident conditions involving
the release of hazardous
materials into the
environment.
a
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•..,.,..,..
Page 9 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures
The proposed project could
MM HAZ -1 would apply to this impact.
Less than
emit hazardous emissions or
Significant
handle hazardous or acutely
hazardous materials,
substances, or waste within
0.25 mile of an existing or
proposed school.
Noise
The proposed project could
MM NOI -1 The City's construction contracts for
Less than
result in the exposure of
the proposed project shall require
Significant
persons to or generation of
implementation of the following construction
noise levels in excess of
best management practices (BMPs) by all
standards established in the
construction contractors and subcontractors
local general plan or noise
working in or around the project site to reduce
ordinance, or applicable
construction noise levels:
standards of other agencies.
Construction equipment shall be properly
muffled according to manufactures
specifications or as required by the City's
Department of Building and Safety,
whichever is the more stringent.
• Noise - generating construction equipment
and construction staging areas shall be
located away from sensitive uses, where
feasible, to the satisfaction of the
Department of Building and Safety.
• Noise - attenuation measures shall be
implemented, which may include, but are
not limited to, noise barriers or noise
blankets to the satisfaction of the City's
Department of Building and Safety.
MM NOI -2 The City's construction contracts for
the proposed project shall include the
requirement that construction staging areas,
construction worker parking and the operation
of earthmoving equipment within the project
site, are located as far away from vibration -
and noise - sensitive sites as possible. Contract
provisions incorporating the above
requirements shall be included as part of the
project's construction documents, which shall
be reviewed and approved by the City.
MM NOI -3 The City's construction contracts for
the proposed project shall include
specifications that heavily loaded trucks used
during construction shall be routed away from
residential streets to the extent possible.
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••.....,.. Page 10 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures
Impact Mitigation Measure afferMifigalion
Contract specifications shall be included in the
proposed project construction documents,
which shall be reviewed by the City prior to
issuance of a grading permit.
MMNOI -4 The City's construction contracts for
the proposed project shall require that any
construction activity that would result in the
generation of noise that would exceed 80 dBA
noise levels when measured at a distance of
50 feet from the construction site occur only
between the hours of 10:00 Ann and 3:00 PM,
Monday Through Friday provided appropriate
permits are issued by the City of Santa Monica.
The proposed project could MMN0I -1 through MMN0I4 would apply to this Less than
result in a substantial impact. Significant
temporary or periodic
increase in ambient noise
levels in the project vicinity
above levels existing without
the project.
Transportation/Traffic
The proposed project conflict
with an applicable plan,
ordinance, or policy
establishing measures of
effectiveness for the
performance of the
circulation system, taking into
account all modes of
transportation including mass
transit and nonmotorized
travel and relevant
components of the circulation
system, including, but not
limited to, intersections,
streets, highways and
freeways, pedestrian and
bicycle paths, and mass
transit (Construction Only)
MM TRAP -1 The City shall prepare, implement Less than
and maintain a Construction Impact Mitigation Significant
Plan prior to issuance of a building permit to
adequately manage traffic during construction
and shall be designed to:
• Prevent traffic impacts on the surrounding
roadway network
• Minimize parking impacts both to public
parking and access to private parking to
the greatest extent practicable
• Ensure safety for both those constructing
the project and the surrounding community
• Prevent substantial truck traffic through
residential neighborhoods
The Construction Impact Mitigation Plan shall
be subject to review and approval by the
following City departments: Public Works
Department, Fire, Planning and Community
Development and Police to ensure that the
Plan has been designed in accordance with
this mitigation measure. This review shall occur
prior to issuance of grading or building permits.
It shall, at a minimum, include the following:
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••••• Page 11 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures
of Construction
• A detailed traffic control plan for work
zones shall be maintained. At a minimum,
this shall include parking and travel lane
configurations; warning, regulatory, guide,
and directional signage; and area
sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and parking lanes.
The plan shall include specific information
regarding the project's construction
activities that may disrupt normal
pedestrian and traffic flow and the
measures to address these disruptions. Such
plans shall be reviewed and approved by
the Transportation Management Division
prior to commencement of construction
and implemented in accordance with this
approval.
• Work within the public right -of -way shall be
performed between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
This work includes dirt and demolition
material hauling and construction material
delivery. Work within the public right -of -way
outside of these hours shall only be allowed
after the issuance of an after -hours
construction permit.
• Streets and equipment shall be cleaned in
accordance with established PW .
requirements.
• Trucks shall only travel on a City- approved
construction route. Truck queuing /staging
shall not be allowed on Santa Monica
streets. Limited queuing may occur on the
construction site itself.
• Materials and equipment shall be minimally
visible to the public; the preferred location
for materials is to be on site, with a minimum
amount of materials within a work area in
the public right -of -way, subject to a current
Use of Public Property Permit.
• Any requests for work before or after normal
construction hours within the public right -of-
way shall be subject to review and
approval through the After Hours Permit
process administered by the Building and
Safety Division.
• Provision of off - street parking for
construction workers, which may include
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
- June 20, 2012
•••• -•- Page 12 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures
the use of a remote location with shuttle
transport to the site, if determined
necessary by the City of Santa Monica.
Project Coordination Elements That Shall Be
Implemented Prior to Commencement of
Construction
• The City shall advise the traveling public of
impending construction activities (e.g.,
information signs, portable message signs,
media listing /notification, and
implementation of an approved traffic
control plan).
• The City shall obtain a Use of Public Property
Permit, Excavation Permit, Sewer Permit, or
Oversize Load Permit, as well as any
Caltrans permits required, for any
construction work requiring encroachment
into public rights -of -way, detours, or any
other work within the public right -of -way.
• The City shall provide timely notification of
construction schedules to all affected
agencies (e.g., Big Blue Bus, Police
Department, Fire Department, Public Works
Department, and Planning and Community
Development Department) and to all
owners and residential and commercial
tenants of property within a radius of
500 feet.
• The City shall coordinate construction work
with affected agencies in advance of start
of work. Approvals may take up to two
weeks per each submittal.
• The City shall obtain Transportation
Management Division approval of any haul
routes for earth, concrete, or construction
materials and equipment hauling.
4 City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••••••• Page 13 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Factors Potentially Affected
01101T, UTtemis
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project,
involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact' as indicated by the
checklist on the following pages.
❑ Aesthetics
❑ Agriculture /Forestry Resources
❑ Air Quality
❑ Biological Resources
❑ Cultural Resources
❑ Geology /Soils
❑ Greenhouse Gas Emissions
❑ Hazards /Hazardous Materials
❑ Hydrology /Water Quality
❑ Land Use /Planning
❑ Mineral Resources
❑ Noise
❑ Population /Housing
❑ Public Services
❑ Recreation
❑ Transportation /Traffic
❑ Utilities /Service Systems
❑ Mandatory Findings of
Significance
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
❑ 1 find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment,
and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
® 1 find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the
environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project
have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION will be prepared,
❑ 1 find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
❑ I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact' or 'less than
significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect (1) has been
adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and
(2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described
on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only
the effects that remain to be addressed.
❑ I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the
environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately
In an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have
been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier FIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including
revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further
is required.
Francie Stefan Date
Strategic and Transporta Un Plan g Manager
City of Santa Monica Initial Sfudy/Mitlgoted Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••••W�• Page 14 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
a) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The project site is completely developed as a public ROW
consisting of streets, sidewalks, and landscaped areas. The project site includes the Colorado
Avenue roadway and sidewalks from 41h Street to the entrance of the Santa Monica Pier at
Ocean Avenue. The project site also includes the northern sidewalk of Colorado Avenue
from 41h to 51h Street and limited areas north and south of Colorado Avenue on 2nd Street,
Main Street, and 41h Street.
For the purpose of this analysis, scenic vistas are considered views of scenic resources.
Scenic resources visible from vantage points in the project area include the Santa Monica
Pier and associated sign, public art located on the exterior of the Santa Monica Mall, the
Palisades Park, Santa Monica City Hall, the Pacific Ocean, the coastline, and distant
mountains. Additionally, the future Palisades Garden Walk would be visible from vantage
points in the project area. Due to the built -out nature of the surrounding area, views of these
scenic resources are generally limited to the immediate vicinity of the resource and
channelized views down streets.
The most widely available view of a scenic resource from the project site is the channeled
view of the historic Santa Monica Pier sign from Colorado Avenue looking west. Views of the
Santa Monica Pier sign from Colorado Avenue are framed by development, trees, and light
poles, and are partially obstructed by traffic signals and vehicles utilizing the street. Views of
the Pacific Ocean and the coastline from the project site are only available from Ocean
Avenue and Colorado Avenue in the immediate vicinity of Ocean Avenue looking across
Palisades Park (a linear park that extends along the Palisades Bluffs on the west side of
Ocean Avenue), and the Santa Monica Pier. Trees located within the Palisades Park partially
obstruct views of ocean and coastline from within the project site. Views.of Santa Monica
City Hall and the future Palisades Garden Walk are only available looking across the Main
Street Triangle (a grassy landscaped area on south side of the intersection of Colorado
Avenue and Main Street).
The City's Local Coastal Program (LCP) Land Use Plan (LUP) identifies policies directed
toward preserving and enhancing views of scenic resources. Specifically, LUP Policy 46 states
4 City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••• -•• -• Page 15 of 119
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
iMitigation
Incorporated
Less-Than-
Significant
Impact
No '.
Impact
L
AESTHETICS. WOULD THE PROJECT:
(a)
Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic
❑
❑
®
❑
vista?
(b)
Substantially damage scenic resources, including,
❑
❑
®
❑
but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and
historic buildings within a state scenic highway?
(c)
Substantially degrade the existing visual character
❑
❑
®
❑
or quality of the site and its surroundings?
(d)
Create a new source of substantial light or glare
❑
❑
®
❑
that would adversely affect day or nighttime views
in the area?
a) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The project site is completely developed as a public ROW
consisting of streets, sidewalks, and landscaped areas. The project site includes the Colorado
Avenue roadway and sidewalks from 41h Street to the entrance of the Santa Monica Pier at
Ocean Avenue. The project site also includes the northern sidewalk of Colorado Avenue
from 41h to 51h Street and limited areas north and south of Colorado Avenue on 2nd Street,
Main Street, and 41h Street.
For the purpose of this analysis, scenic vistas are considered views of scenic resources.
Scenic resources visible from vantage points in the project area include the Santa Monica
Pier and associated sign, public art located on the exterior of the Santa Monica Mall, the
Palisades Park, Santa Monica City Hall, the Pacific Ocean, the coastline, and distant
mountains. Additionally, the future Palisades Garden Walk would be visible from vantage
points in the project area. Due to the built -out nature of the surrounding area, views of these
scenic resources are generally limited to the immediate vicinity of the resource and
channelized views down streets.
The most widely available view of a scenic resource from the project site is the channeled
view of the historic Santa Monica Pier sign from Colorado Avenue looking west. Views of the
Santa Monica Pier sign from Colorado Avenue are framed by development, trees, and light
poles, and are partially obstructed by traffic signals and vehicles utilizing the street. Views of
the Pacific Ocean and the coastline from the project site are only available from Ocean
Avenue and Colorado Avenue in the immediate vicinity of Ocean Avenue looking across
Palisades Park (a linear park that extends along the Palisades Bluffs on the west side of
Ocean Avenue), and the Santa Monica Pier. Trees located within the Palisades Park partially
obstruct views of ocean and coastline from within the project site. Views.of Santa Monica
City Hall and the future Palisades Garden Walk are only available looking across the Main
Street Triangle (a grassy landscaped area on south side of the intersection of Colorado
Avenue and Main Street).
The City's Local Coastal Program (LCP) Land Use Plan (LUP) identifies policies directed
toward preserving and enhancing views of scenic resources. Specifically, LUP Policy 46 states
4 City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••• -•• -• Page 15 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
that public views to, from, and along the ocean, the Pier, Inspiration Point, and Palisades
Park are protected, and permitted development, including public works of art, are to be
sited and designed to protect views to and along the ocean and scenic coastal areas.
Additionally, the City's LUCE, which identifies the project site as being located within the
Downtown district (except for the portion of the project site along Ocean Avenue within the
Oceanfront district), includes policies intended to preserve public view corridors, including
western views of the ocean from east -west streets and boulevards, views of the ocean and
the Pier from Palisades Park, and views from the Pier to the City.
The proposed project involves streetscape improvements and circulation modifications to
the existing Colorado Avenue roadway, sidewalks, and landscaped areas within the project
site. Above -grade structures and features with the potential to obstruct or alter views of
scenic resources would include lighting, trees, pedestrian amenities (such as bus shelters,
street furniture, and fountains), signage, and new traffic signals. Similar structures and
features currently occur in the project area but would be improved and updated with
implementation of the proposed project. Most structures and features proposed, with the
exception of traffic signals and some lighting features, would be located within sidewalks
and landscaped areas, maintaining the existing view corridor down Colorado Avenue.
Traffic signals and some lighting features would be located within the street; however, similar
features exist within Colorado Avenue and such features have been designed to not
obstruct views of the Santa Monica Pier sign.
Based on the type and location of the above -grade structures and features proposed, and
the existing availability of views from the project site with the presence of similar above -
grade features, the proposed project would not obstruct or otherwise negatively affect
views of scenic resources visible from the project site and surrounding area. Existing views of
scenic resources described above would continue to be available looking down roadways
in the immediate vicinity of the resource, and looking across Palisades Park and the Main
Street Triangle. Accordingly, the proposed project would preserve protected views of scenic
resources as required by policies of the City's LUP and LUCE.
In consideration of the analysis provided above, the proposed project would not have a
substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista, and a less- than - significant impact would occur.
b) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The project site is completely developed as a public ROW
consisting of public streets, sidewalks, and landscaped areas. The project site includes the
Colorado Avenue roadway and sidewalks from 4th Street to the entrance of the Santa
Monica Pier at Ocean Avenue. The project site also includes the northern sidewalk of
Colorado Avenue from 4th to 51h Street and limited areas north and south of Colorado
Avenue on 2 ^d Street, Main Street, and 4th Street.
Currently, there are no scenic highways officially designated by the State of California within
the City of Santa Monica. The Pacific Coast Highway (SR 1 or PCH) is eligible for State scenic
highway designation but it not currently designated as scenic by the State or County of Los
Angeles.' The project site is not visible from PCH due to the site's location near the top of the
Palisades Bluffs. While no designated state scenic highways are located in the City, the City
of Santa Monica's Scenic Corridors General Plan Element identifies Ocean Avenue, and the
Santa Monica Municipal Pier, adjacent to the project area as designated scenic corridors.
Additionally, the LUP identifies Ocean Avenue as a scenic corridor.
California Department of Transportation, California Scenic Highway Program,
www. dot. ca. gov /hq /LandArch /scenic_ highways /scenic_hwy.htm (accessed August 30, 2011).
a� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••••••• Page 16 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
Although Ocean Avenue is a designated scenic corridor in the LUP, there are no scenic
resources within the project site boundaries. Therefore, the proposed project would not
damage a scenic resource with a state - designated scenic highway, and a less -than-
significant impact would occur.
c) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The proposed project consists of streetscape improvements,
design enhancements, and circulation modifications of existing public streets, sidewalks, and
landscaped areas within the project site to create a gateway into downtown Santa Monica
from the future Expo LRT station, convert Colorado Avenue into a multi -modal street, and
enhance the visual and physical connection between the Expo LRT Station, Downtown, the
future Palisades Garden Walk, the Pier, and the Civic Center.
The proposed project would transform Colorado Avenue within the project site from an auto -
centric roadway into a dynamic multi -modal street that supports pedestrian, transit, and
bicycle users through the provision of widened sidewalks, a cycle track, a reduction in the
number of vehicular lanes, the realignment of Main Street, enhanced crosswalks, and new
signalization. Pedestrian and bicycle facilities would be improved and expanded.
Improvements to the Main Street Triangle, an existing landscaped area located on the south
side of Colorado Avenue at Main Street, would be improved to create a pedestrian
gateway to the Civic Center District and create new open space. The Colorado Avenue
streetscape would be enhanced with decorative paving, inlaid wayfinding, street furniture,
lighting, landscaping, and public art in order to improve the pedestrian environment.
The transformed visual character of the project site is consistent with the vision of Colorado
Avenue between 44h Street and Ocean Avenue as set forth in the City's LUCE, which
identifies the Colorado Esplanade as a gateway into the City from the Expo LRT Station and
a pedestrian- enhanced street that provides pedestrian and bicycle linkages between the
future Expo LRT Station, Downtown, the Civic Center, the future Palisades Garden Walk, the
Pier, and Palisades Park.
The proposed project would improve the visual quality of the area by providing a consistent
visual streetscape that enhances the pedestrian environment. The proposed project would
be compatible with the character of the project area, as it would create visual and physical
connections to the surrounding area through enhanced sidewalks, wayfinding, and
streetscape. As such, the proposed project would not degrade the visual character or
quality of the project site and surrounding area and a less- than - significant impact would
occur.
d) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The project site is located in the urbanized downtown area of
the City where ambient nighttime lighting levels are medium to medium high. The project site
is currently illuminated by existing pole- mounted street lights as well as existing off -site light
sources, including building lighting from nearby uses such as the Santa Monica Place mall,
the Holiday Inn, and other commercial uses. In addition, the Santa Monica Pier illuminated
sign and the Santa Monica Ferris wheel are prominent light sources.
The proposed project would introduce new street lighting as well as landscaping lighting that
would incrementally increase nighttime lighting levels. New lighting would be installed along
the Esplanade for wayfinding and safety purposes. In addition, architectural lighting would
be installed to accent landscaping, pedestrian amenities, and art features. All lighting
technologies that are being considered are at a minimum partial cut -off (if not full cut off)
fixtures to adhere to dark sky requirements. Project lighting would not be significant given the
existing medium- to medium -high ambient nighttime lighting levels in the Downtown area. In
addition, no light- sensitive uses such as hospitals or residences are located in proximity to the
project site. Therefore, the proposed project's lighting would not substantially affect
4 City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••••••• Page 17 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
nighttime views or substantially illuminate light- sensitive uses. Therefore, impacts associated
with increased light would be less than significant.
Glare is primarily a daytime occurrence caused by the reflection of sunlight or artificial light
from highly polished surfaces, such as window glass or reflective materials, and, to a lesser
degree, from broad expanses of light- colored surfaces. Glare can also be caused at night
by vehicle headlights. The proposed project is not a traffic - generating development; rather,
it entails streetscape and circulation improvements to improve mobility for pedestrians,
cyclists, and motorists and reduce vehicular conflicts. Therefore, there would be no
increased glare from vehicle headlights as a result of the proposed project. The proposed
project does not include substantial structures and would not generate increased glare.
Therefore, impacts associated with glare would be less than significant.
a� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••• • ...... Page 18 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
dLess Than
Significant
Potentially with Less -Than-
Sighificant Mitigation significant No
Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
II. AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES. In determining whether impacts to agricultural
resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the
California Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by
the California Dept, of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on
agriculture and farmland. In determining whether impacts to forest resources, including
timberland, are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to
information compiled by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
regarding the state's inventory of forest land, including the Forest and Range
Assessment Project and the Forest Legacy Assessment project; and forest carbon
measurement methodology provided in Forest Protocols adopted by the California Air
Resources Board. Would the project:
(a)
Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or
❑
❑
❑
Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as
shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the
Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the
California Resources Agency, to nonagricultural
use?
(b)
Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use or
❑
❑
❑
with a Williamson Act contract?
(c)
Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning
❑
❑
❑
of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code
Section 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by Public
Resources Code Section 4526), or timberland zoned
Timberland Production (as defined by Government
Code Section 51104(g))?
(d)
Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of
❑
❑
❑
forest land to nonforest use?
(e) Involve other changes in the existing environment ❑ ❑ ❑
that, due to their location or nature, could result in
conversion of Farmland to nonagricultural use or
conversion of forest land to nonforest use?
a) No Impact. The project site is located in an urbanized area and is completely developed as
public ROW consisting of public streets, sidewalks, and landscaped areas. No agricultural
uses occur on the site. Furthermore, the California Division of Land Resources Protection has
not designated this area as Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide
Importance.2 No such designated farmland exists within the City. Therefore, the proposed
project would not convert farmland to non - agricultural use. No impacts would occur.
b) No Impact. The project site is located in an urbanized area and is completely developed as
public ROW consisting of public streets, sidewalks, and landscaped areas. Only land located
within an agricultural preserve is eligible for enrollment under a Williamson Act contract.
S California Division of Land Resource Protection, Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program, Los Angeles County Map
(2008), ftp: / /ftp.consw.ca.gov/ pub /dlrp /FMMP /pdf /2008 /los08.pdf.
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••• -•• Page 19 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
Accordingly, the project site is not covered by a Williamson Act contract. Therefore, the
proposed project would not conflict with existing agricultural zoning or a Williamson Act
Contract. No impacts would occur.
c) No Impact. The project site is located in an urbanized area and is completely developed as
public ROW consisting of public streets, sidewalks, and landscaped areas. Public right of way
is not subject to any zoning or land use designations. No forest land occurs on the project site
or surrounding area. Therefore, the proposed project would not conflict with existing zoning
for or cause rezoning of forest land. No impacts would occur.
d) No Impact. The project site is completely developed as public ROW consisting of public
streets, sidewalks, and landscaped areas. Surrounding land uses consists predominantly of
commercial uses, including the Santa Monica Mall, and a parking structure to the north; the
Santa Monica Pier to the west; a hotel, Sears building, and the future Palisades Garden Walk
(a park) to the south; and commercial development and the future Expo LRT station to the
east. As previously described, no forest land occurs on the project site or surrounding area.
Therefore, the proposed project would not result in the loss of forest land or conversion of
forest land to non - forest use. No impacts would occur.
e) No Impact. The project site is completely developed. No farmland or forest land occurs on
the project site or in the surrounding area. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in
the conversion of farmland to non - agricultural uses or the conversion of forest land to non -
forest use. No impacts would occur.
'
<,Less Than
.Significant
.Potentially
''. with
I.ess•Than-
Significant
.Mitigation
':Significant No
'innact
Incornorated
= hnnact 'hnnact
AIR QUALITY. Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air
quality management or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the
following determinations. Would the project:
(a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the ❑ ❑ ❑
applicable air quality plan?
(b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute ❑ ❑ ® ❑
substantially to an existing or projected air quality
violation?
(c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase ❑ ❑ ® ❑
of any criteria pollutant for which the project region
is nonattainment under an applicable federal or
state ambient air quality standard (including
releasing emissions that exceed quantitative
thresholds for ozone precursors)?
(d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant ❑ ❑ ❑
concentrations?
(e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial . ❑ ❑ ® ❑
number of people?
a) No Impact. The project site is located with the South Coast Air Basin (SCAB), which is
regulated by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD). Pursuant to the
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 20 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
Clean Air Act, SCAQMD has prepared the 2007 Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) to
reduce emissions of criteria pollutants in the SCAB. The 2007 AQMP focuses on achieving the
established standards for ozone and PM2.5. The SCAQMD has adopted criteria for
determining consistency with regional plans and the regional AQMP to its CEQA Air Quality
Handbook. These include (1) identifying whether a project would increase the frequency or
severity of existing air quality violations or cause or contribute to new air quality violations
and (2) identifying whether a project would exceed the assumptions utilized in preparing the
AQMP.
The proposed project consists of circulation modification, streetscape improvements, and
design enhancements to Colorado Avenue to create an active multi -modal street that
provides pedestrian and bicycle connections between the Expo LRT Station and other
destinations in the area. The project would not generate new permanent vehicle trips and
associated air quality emissions. No new trips would be generated from the proposed project
as the proposed project does not include the development of new land uses. Rather, the
proposed project would support the AQMP goal of air quality improvement in the SCAB by
creating an active multi -modal street that supports pedestrians and cyclists. In addition, the
proposed project would improve the connectivity of the surrounding area. Therefore, the
proposed project would not conflict with the applicable air quality plan. No impacts would
occur.
b) Less- Than - Significant Impact.
Operation
The proposed project consists of circulation modification, streetscape improvements, and
design enhancements to Colorado Avenue to create an active multi -modal street that
provides pedestrian and bicycle connections between the Expo LRT Station and other
destinations in the area. The project would not generate new permanent vehicle trips and
associated air pollutant emissions. No new trips would be generated from the proposed
project as the proposed project does not include the development of new land uses.
Rather, by promoting alternative modes of transportation, including walking and biking, and
providing access to the future Expo LRT and the Santa Monica Bike Center, the proposed
project would help to improve air quality in the SCAB. Therefore, the proposed project would
not violate an air quality standard or contribute to an existing air quality violation. No
impacts from operation of the project would occur.
Construction
Construction of the proposed project would have the potential to create air quality impacts
due to constructed - related emissions from grading /demolition activities; operation of
construction equipment /trucks; and construction worker vehicle trips.
The SCAQMD establishes the following construction regional (mass daily) thresholds for the
criteria air pollutants:
• 75 pounds per day ROG
• 100 pounds per day NOx
• 550 pounds per day CO
• 150 pounds per day of PMio
• 55 pounds per day of PM2.5
Project construction emissions can vary substantially from day to day, depending on the
level of activity, the specific type of operation and, for dust, the prevailing weather
conditions. Construction - related daily emissions associated with the proposed project were
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••••� -•• Page 21 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
calculated using CALEEMOD, an air quality emissions model developed by the California Air
Resources Board (CARB). As shown in Table AIR -1 (Estimated Peak Daily Construction
Emissions in Pounds per Day), construction emissions would be below the Regional
Significance Thresholds established by the SCAQMD during all construction phases. In
general, the primary source of CO and NOx emissions would be from construction
equipment and off -site vehicle trips, while the primary source of PM10 and PM2.5 emissions
would be from ground disturbance. It should be noted that construction activities would be
required to comply with SCAQMD's Rule 403 to reduce fugitive dust emissions. Compliance
could include, but not be limited to the following: (1) watering of the disturbed soil such that
the soil remains visibly moist; (2) the application of soil stabilizers; and (3) the covering of all
soil stockpiles. [Model results are provided in Appendix B].
In addition, local significance thresholds (LSTs) were devised in response to public concern
regarding exposure of individuals to criteria pollutants in local communities. The LSTs
represent the maximum emissions from a project that will not cause or contribute to an air
quality exceedance of the most stringent applicable federal or state ambient air quality
standard at the nearest sensitive receptor, taking into consideration ambient concentrations
in each source receptor area (SRA), project size, and distance to the sensitive receptor, etc.
LSTs are only applicable to the following criteria pollutants: NOx, CO, PMio, and PM2.5.
Demolition (Removal of pavement /asphalt)
On Site
8.86
70.71
42.55
0.07
6.28
3.50
Off Site
0.75
6.94
4.69
0.01
0.34
0.29
Maximum Daily Emissions
9.61
77.65
47.24
0.08
6.62
3.79
SCAQMD Threshold
75
100
550
150
150
55
Exceed Threshold?
No
No
No
No
No
No
Grading
On Site
4.84
38.03
22.86
0.04
8.23
5.33
Off Site
0.06
0.06
0.64
0.00
0.01
0.01
Maximum Daily Emissions
4.90
38.09
23.5
0.04
8.24
5.34
SCAQMD Threshold
75
100
550
150
150
55
Exceed Threshold?
No
No
No
No
No
No
Paving
On Site
4.65
30.20
18.10
0.03
2.38
2.38
Off Site
0.19
0.78
1.88
0.00
0.05
0.03
Maximum Daily Emissions
4.84
30.98
19.98
0.03
2.43
2.41
SCAQMD Threshold
75
100
550
150
150
55
Exceed Threshold?
No
No
No
No
No
No
SOURCE: Atkins (2012) (ColEEMod outputs available as Appendix B to this Mitigated Negative Declaration).
- City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••• ...... Page 22 of 719
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
The proposed project is located in SRA 2, and the closest sensitive receptors are the multi-
family residential uses located at 1539 41h Street, which is adjacent to the area of
construction for the proposed project. For the purposes of this analysis these residential uses
would be within 50 feet (25 meters) of construction activity. The maximum construction
related emissions and the LSTs thresholds for 25 meter, 200 meters, and 500 meters are shown
below in Table AIR -2 (Total On -Site Construction Emissions and Localized Significance
Thresholds). If the proposed project would result in exceedance of the LSTs for any air
pollutant as identified below in Table AIR -2, this would constitute a significant impact. As
shown in Table AIR -2, emissions would not exceed SCAQMD thresholds during the proposed
project's construction at any of the identified sensitive receptors for CO, NO2, PMIo and PM2.5
and this impact would be less than significant.
Peak Daily On -site Emissions
47.24
77.65
5.34
3.79
Threshold:
Allowable emissions at 25 meters
1,531
221
13
6
Threshold: Allowable emissions at
200 meters
4,383
250
84
29
Threshold: Allowable emissions at
500 meters
10,467
312
174
95
Exceed Allowable emissions?
No
No
No
No
SOURCE: Atkins (2011), adopted from SCAQMD 2010.
c) Less - Than - Significant Impact. As the proposed project is not part of an ongoing regulatory
program, the SCAQMD recommends that project- specific air quality impacts be used to
determine the potential cumulative impact to regional air quality. As discussed above, the
proposed project would not generate new pollutant emissions that would worsen regional air
quality. In addition, construction pollutant emissions would be temporary and would be less
than significant. Impacts would be less than significant.
d) No Impact. As defined in the SCAQMD CEQA Air Quality Handbook, a sensitive receptor to
air quality is defined as any of the following land use categories: (1) long -term health care
facilities, (2) rehabilitation centers, (3) convalescent centers, (4) retirement homes,
(5) residences, (6) schools (i.e., elementary, middle school, high schools), (7) parks and
playgrounds, (8) childcare centers, and (9) athletic fields. The Colorado Esplanade project is
a proposed streetscape project and would not site sensitive receptors in proximity to
pollutant concentrations. in addition, as described in Section III(b) above, operation of the
proposed project would not generate air pollutant emissions. Therefore, the proposed
project would not expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations. No
impacts to sensitive receptors would occur, and further analysis of this issue is not warranted.
e) Less - Than - Significant Impact. Objectionable odors are typically associated with industrial
uses such as agricultural facilities (e.g., farms and dairies), refineries, wastewater treatment
facilities, and landfills. The proposed project consists of circulation modification, streetscape
improvements, and design enhancements to Colorado Avenue to create an active multi-
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mifigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•• Page 23 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
modal street that provides pedestrian and bicycle connections between the Expo LRT
Station and other destinations in the area. No odors would be generated from the proposed
project as no new land uses are proposed. During project construction, limited and
temporary odors may occur during project construction from diesel- operated
machinery/equipment. However, any odors that may be generated would be localized and
temporary in nature, and would not affect a substantial number of people or result in a
nuisance as defined by SCAQMD Rule 402. Therefore, impacts with regard to odors would be
less than significant.
IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the project:
(a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or ❑ ❑ ❑
through habitat modifications, on any species
identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special -
status species in local or regional plans, policies, or
regulations, or by the California Department of Fish
and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
(b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian ❑ ❑ ❑
habitat or other sensitive natural community
identified in local or regional plans, policies, or
regulations or by the California Department of Fish
and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
(c) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally ❑ ❑ ❑
protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of
the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to,
marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct
removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other
means?
(d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any ❑ ❑ ❑
native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or
with established native resident or migratory wildlife
corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife
nursery sites?
(e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances ❑ ® ❑ ❑
protecting biological resources, such as a tree
preservation policy or ordinance?
(f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat ❑ ❑ ❑
Conservation Plan, Natural Community
Conservation Plan, or other approved local,
regional, or state habitat conservation plan?
a) No Impact. The project site is located in an urban area and completely developed as public
street, sidewalks, and landscaped areas. Vegetation on the project site is limited to grass,
shrubs, and trees associated with the Main Street Triangle, and street trees along Colorado
Avenue. As a result, no suitable habitat for any special- status plant or wildlife species occurs
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•- .•..... Page 24 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
on the project site. Species expected to occur on -site would be limited to terrestrial species
(such as squirrels) and birds that are commonly found in urban environments. As such, the
proposed project would not have a substantial adverse effect on any sensitive or special
status species and no impact would occur.
b) No Impact. The project site is completely developed and located in an urbanized area
within the City. No riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community exists on the project
site or in the surrounding area. As such, the proposed project would not have a substantial
adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community, and no impacts
would occur.
c) No Impact. The project site is completely developed and located in an urbanized area
within the City. There are no wetlands on the project site or in the surrounding area. As such,
the proposed project would not have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected
wetlands as defined by.Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, and no impacts would occur.
d) No Impact. The project site is completely developed and located in an urbanized area
within the City. Surrounding land uses consists predominantly of commercial uses. No wildlife
corridors, native wildlife nursery sites, or bodies of water in which fish are present are located
on or near the project site. Furthermore, due to the urbanized nature and high level of
human activity in the project area, the potential for native resident or migratory wildlife
species movement to occur through the site is highly unlikely. The proposed project would
not interfere with any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established
native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites.
No impacts would occur.
e) Less- Than - Significant Impact with Mitigation. The project site is completely developed and is
located in a highly urbanized area in the City. Vegetation on the project site is limited to
grass, shrubs and trees associated with the Main Street Triangle, and street trees. As a result,
no suitable habitat for any special- status plant or wildlife species occurs on the project site
and no special status /sensitive species occur on the project site or surrounding area.
Therefore, project implementation would not result in conflict with any policies or ordinances
protecting special- status plant or wildlife species, including any endangered, threatened, or
rare species. However, trees within the project site could provide suitable nesting
opportunities for common (nonsensitive) bird species afforded protection under the federal
Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and California Fish and Game Code (CFGC). According to
the Tree Survey conducted along Colorado Avenue, there are 51 mature street trees
located along Colorado Avenue within the project boundary consisting of 48 New Zealand
Christmas trees, two lemon- scented gums, and one carrotwood. Street trees would either be
protected in place, removed and replaced, and /or relocated during construction in
accordance with the City of Santa Monica's Tree Code and Urban Forest Master Plan.
Construction activities and /of the relocation of street trees could result in a direct impact to
a nesting bird and /or an occupied nest. As such, construction of the proposed project could
result in a conflict with the MBTA and CFGC due to the potential impact to nesting birds.
While it is assumed that all projects would comply with the regulations in the MBTA,
avoidance of any potential conflict with the MBTA and CFGC would be assured through
implementation of mitigation measure MM 3I0-1, which requires avoidance of nesting birds.
As such, the proposed project would not conflict with any local policies or ordinances
protecting biological resources, and this impact would be less than significant with
mitigation.
e City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••,•,•• _ Page 25 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
MM BI0-1 Avoidance of Nesting Birds. To prevent impacts to nesting birds protected
under the MBTA and California fish and Game Code, the City of Santa
Monica shall enforce the following:
1. Where suitable vegetation and structures for nesting birds occur within
200 feet of project construction activities, all phases of project
construction shall avoid the general nesting season (March I through
August 31).
2. If construction cannot avoid the general nesting season, a qualified
biologist shall be retained to conduct a pre - construction survey for nesting
birds prior to clearing, grading and /or construction activities on the
project site. The survey shall be conducted within 72 hours prior to the start
of construction.
3. If any nesting birds are present within or immediately adjacent to the
proposed project construction area, the following shall be required:
The City of Santa Monica shall retain a qualified biologist to flag and
demarcate the location of all nesting birds and monitor construction
activities. Temporary avoidance of active bird nests, including the
enforcement of an avoidance buffer of 25 to 200 feet, depending on the
sensitivity of the species identified, as determined by the qualified biological
monitor, shall be required until the qualified biological monitor has verified
that the young have fledged or the nest has otherwise become inactive.
No Impact. The project site is located in an urban area and completely developed as an
existing street, sidewalks, and landscaped areas. Vegetation on the project site is limited to
grass, shrubs, and trees associated with the Main Street Triangle, and street trees along
Colorado Avenue. As a result, no suitable habitat for any special- status plant or wildlife
species occurs on the project site. No Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community
Conservation Plan, or other approved habitat conservation plan applies to the project site.
Therefore, the proposed project would not conflict with the provisions of an adopted habitat
conservation plan and no impact would occur.
V. CONSTRUCTION EFFECTS. Would the project:
(a) Have considerable construction - period impacts ❑ ® ❑ ❑
due to the scope, or location of construction
activities?
a) Less -Than- Significant Impact with Mitigation. Construction of the proposed project would
result in short -term impacts related to air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, hydrology and
water quality, noise, and traffic. As analyzed in the respective sections of this IS /MND,
construction impacts would be less than significant or less than significant with mitigation.
Please refer to Section II (Air Quality), Section VI (Greenhouse Gas Emissions), Section IX
(Hazards and Hazardous Materials), Section X (Hydrology /Water Quality), Section XIV (Noise),
and Section XIX (Transportation /Traffic) for a detailed analysis of construction - related effects
associated with the proposed project.
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
-� June 20, 2012
Page 26 of 119
-Less Than
Significant
Potentially
': with iess -Than-
Significant
Mitigation '. Significant No
Imnnrt
IncnmrnnfE d 1mndcf ' 1mnncf
V. CONSTRUCTION EFFECTS. Would the project:
(a) Have considerable construction - period impacts ❑ ® ❑ ❑
due to the scope, or location of construction
activities?
a) Less -Than- Significant Impact with Mitigation. Construction of the proposed project would
result in short -term impacts related to air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, hydrology and
water quality, noise, and traffic. As analyzed in the respective sections of this IS /MND,
construction impacts would be less than significant or less than significant with mitigation.
Please refer to Section II (Air Quality), Section VI (Greenhouse Gas Emissions), Section IX
(Hazards and Hazardous Materials), Section X (Hydrology /Water Quality), Section XIV (Noise),
and Section XIX (Transportation /Traffic) for a detailed analysis of construction - related effects
associated with the proposed project.
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
-� June 20, 2012
Page 26 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
a) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The proposed project site would extend along the Colorado
Avenue ROW from 4th Street to Ocean Avenue. The project site also includes the northern
sidewalk from 4th to 51h Street and limited areas north and south of Colorado Avenue on 2nd
Street, Main Street, and 41h Street. Although no historical resources exist on the site itself, there
are several historical resources located adjacent to the site including the Sears building at
302 Colorado Avenue (on the south side of Colorado Avenue) and the Santa Monica Pier
and associated sign at the western end of Colorado Avenue). The proposed project would
not remove or physically alter these historic resources nor would introduce features that
would overwhelm, conflict, or impair with the historic character of these resources. The
proposed project has been designed to be compatible and respect the character of these
resources. Therefore, the proposed project would not cause a substantial adverse change in
the significance of a historic resource. Impacts on historic resources would be less than
significant.
b) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The project site is located within a highly urbanized area and
has been developed for a number of years. Therefore, any archaeological resources on the
site would likely have already been uncovered. Furthermore, the proposed project would
require minimal grading and excavation within the public right -of -way (approximately
l0 feet below ground surface). As such, the likelihood of uncovering archaeological
resources is low and impacts on archaeological resources would be less than significant.
c) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The project site is located within a highly urbanized area, and
has been developed for a number of years. As such, the likelihood of uncovering
paleontological resources is low. Furthermore, the proposed project would require minimal
grading and excavation. Therefore, it is unlikely that the proposed project would uncover
significant paleontological resources. Impacts on paleontological resources would be less
than significant.
d) Less- Than - Significant Impact. There is no evidence that the project site was previously used
as a cemetery or other human burial grounds. Furthermore, the project site is located within
a highly urbanized area and has been developed for a number of years. Therefore, any
human remains on the site would likely have already been uncovered. The proposed project
would require minimal grading and excavation. Therefore, it is unlikely that the proposed
e City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2072
• -•, Page 27 of 119
Potentially
Significant
' Impact
aess man
.Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less -Than-
:Significant
Im act `
No
Imp act
VI.
CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would the project:
(a)
Cause a substantial adverse change in the
❑
❑
®
❑
significance of a historical resource as defined in
Section 15064.5?
(b)
Cause a substantial adverse change in the
❑
❑
®
❑
significance of an archaeological resource
pursuant to Section 15064.5?
(c)
Directly or indirectly destroy a unique
❑
❑
®
❑
paleontological resource or site or unique geologic
feature?
(d)
Disturb any human remains, including those interred
❑
❑
®
❑
outside of formal cemeteries?
a) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The proposed project site would extend along the Colorado
Avenue ROW from 4th Street to Ocean Avenue. The project site also includes the northern
sidewalk from 4th to 51h Street and limited areas north and south of Colorado Avenue on 2nd
Street, Main Street, and 41h Street. Although no historical resources exist on the site itself, there
are several historical resources located adjacent to the site including the Sears building at
302 Colorado Avenue (on the south side of Colorado Avenue) and the Santa Monica Pier
and associated sign at the western end of Colorado Avenue). The proposed project would
not remove or physically alter these historic resources nor would introduce features that
would overwhelm, conflict, or impair with the historic character of these resources. The
proposed project has been designed to be compatible and respect the character of these
resources. Therefore, the proposed project would not cause a substantial adverse change in
the significance of a historic resource. Impacts on historic resources would be less than
significant.
b) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The project site is located within a highly urbanized area and
has been developed for a number of years. Therefore, any archaeological resources on the
site would likely have already been uncovered. Furthermore, the proposed project would
require minimal grading and excavation within the public right -of -way (approximately
l0 feet below ground surface). As such, the likelihood of uncovering archaeological
resources is low and impacts on archaeological resources would be less than significant.
c) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The project site is located within a highly urbanized area, and
has been developed for a number of years. As such, the likelihood of uncovering
paleontological resources is low. Furthermore, the proposed project would require minimal
grading and excavation. Therefore, it is unlikely that the proposed project would uncover
significant paleontological resources. Impacts on paleontological resources would be less
than significant.
d) Less- Than - Significant Impact. There is no evidence that the project site was previously used
as a cemetery or other human burial grounds. Furthermore, the project site is located within
a highly urbanized area and has been developed for a number of years. Therefore, any
human remains on the site would likely have already been uncovered. The proposed project
would require minimal grading and excavation. Therefore, it is unlikely that the proposed
e City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2072
• -•, Page 27 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
project would uncover significant vertebrate fossils. Impacts on human remains would be less
than significant.
VII. GEOLOGY /SOILS. Would the project:
(a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of
loss, injury, or death involving:
(i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as ❑
delineated on the most recent Alquist- Priolo
Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the
State Geologist for the area or based on other
substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to
Division of Mines and Geology Special
Publication 42.
Strong seismic groundshaking? ❑
Less Than
❑
Significant
Potentially
': with Less -Than-
Significant
:Mitigation Significant No '
G,r,r,'r
1n, nrnnrnr..d l., nnrf lmn:, r
VII. GEOLOGY /SOILS. Would the project:
(a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of
loss, injury, or death involving:
(i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as ❑
delineated on the most recent Alquist- Priolo
Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the
State Geologist for the area or based on other
substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to
Division of Mines and Geology Special
Publication 42.
Strong seismic groundshaking? ❑
❑ ❑
❑ ❑
❑ ❑
❑ ❑
❑ ❑
❑ ❑
❑ ❑
5
R
MAI
G
a) No Impact. Fault rupture is the displacement that occurs along the surface of a fault during
an earthquake. The California Geological Survey (CGS) designates Alquist - Priolo Earthquake
Fault Zones, which are regulatory zones around active faults. These zones, which extend from
200 to 500 feet on each side of known active faults, identify areas where potential surface
ruptures along active faults could prove hazardous and identify where special studies are
required to characterize hazards to habitable structures. There are no Alquist - Priolo Fault
Zones located within the City of Santa Monica. The City of Santa Monica, however, is
crossed by the south branch and north branch of the Santa Monica Fault. The City of Santa
Monica treats the Santa Monica Fault as an active fault, and as such, has designated Fault
Hazard Management Zones, which extend 380 to 500 feet north of the north branch and 100
4 City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••••••• Page 28 of 119
(iii) Seismic - related ground failure, including
❑
liquefaction?
(iv) Landslides?
❑
(b)
Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil?
❑
(c)
Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is
❑
unstable, or that would become unstable as a
result of the project, and potentially result in on- or
off -site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence,
liquefaction, or collapse?
(d)
Be located on expansive soil, as defined in
❑
Table 18 -1 -B of the Uniform Building Code (1994),
creating substantial risks to life or property?
(e)
Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the
❑
use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater
disposal systems where sewers are not available for
the disposal of wastewater?
❑ ❑
❑ ❑
❑ ❑
❑ ❑
❑ ❑
❑ ❑
❑ ❑
5
R
MAI
G
a) No Impact. Fault rupture is the displacement that occurs along the surface of a fault during
an earthquake. The California Geological Survey (CGS) designates Alquist - Priolo Earthquake
Fault Zones, which are regulatory zones around active faults. These zones, which extend from
200 to 500 feet on each side of known active faults, identify areas where potential surface
ruptures along active faults could prove hazardous and identify where special studies are
required to characterize hazards to habitable structures. There are no Alquist - Priolo Fault
Zones located within the City of Santa Monica. The City of Santa Monica, however, is
crossed by the south branch and north branch of the Santa Monica Fault. The City of Santa
Monica treats the Santa Monica Fault as an active fault, and as such, has designated Fault
Hazard Management Zones, which extend 380 to 500 feet north of the north branch and 100
4 City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••••••• Page 28 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
to 600 feet south of the south branch of the Santa Monica Fault.3 The project site is not
located in a Fault Hazard Management Zone. As such, the potential for fault rupture to
occur at the project site is low. Furthermore, the proposed project does not propose the
construction of any occupiable structures. The project site would continue to operate as a
public street. Therefore, no impacts related to fault rupture would occur.
The project site is located in the seismically active region of southern California. As such, the
project site would be subject to strong groundshaking in the event of an earthquake on the
Santa Monica fault or any other fault in the area. However, the proposed project does not
propose the construction of any occupiable structures. Additionally, the project site would
continue to operate as a public street and as such, would not increase the existing degree
of seismic risks. Therefore, no impacts related to strong seismic groundshaking would occur.
Liquefaction is a form of earthquake induced ground failure that occurs primarily in relatively
shallow, loose, granular, water - saturated soils. Liquefaction can occur when these types of
soils lose their inherent shear strength due to excess water pressure that builds up during
repeated movement from seismic activity. Liquefaction potential is greatest where the
groundwater level is shallow, and where submerged loose, fine sands occur. According to
the City's Online Property Information System (OPTS), the project site is not located in a
Liquefaction Risk Area nor is the project site mapped on the California Department of
Conservation's Seismic Hazards Zones map as a Liquefaction Hazard Zone.4.5 As such, the
potential for liquefaction to occur at the project site is unlikely. No impacts would occur.
Landslides are movements of large masses of rock and /or soil. Landslide potential is generally
the greatest for areas with steep and /or high slopes, low sheer strength, and increased water
pressure. The project site is characterized by a relatively flat topography. Thus, the potential
for landslides to occur at the project site is very low. Additionally, according to OPTS the
project site is not located in a Landslide Risk Area nor is the project site mapped on the
California Department of Conservation's Seismic Hazards Zones map for the Beverly Hills 7.5-
minute quadrangle as an Earthquake- Induced Landslide Area.63 Therefore, no impacts
related to landslides would occur.
b) Less - Than - Significant Impact. As discussed further in Section X (Hydrology /Water Quality), in
accordance with the City's Urban Runoff Pollution Ordinance, Best Management Practices
(BMPs) would be implemented during project construction to minimize erosion and
stormwater runoff. With regard to operation, no new land uses are proposed on the site that
would result in an increase in pollutant runoff. Colorado Avenue would continue to function
as a street and implementation of the proposed project would not result in increased erosion
or siltation effects. The project site would be entirely paved and /or landscaped. As such,
construction and operation of the proposed project would not result in substantial erosion or
siltation. Impacts would be less than significant.
c and d) No Impact. The project does not propose the construction of any occupiable
structures. The project scope is limited to improvements at or near the existing grade and is
not anticipated to be significantly impacted by the existing geologic conditions. The project
site would continue to operate as a public street. As such, the proposed project would not
3 City of Santa Monica, Geologic Hazards Map (April 2001).
4 City of Santa Monica, Online Property Information System (2012) (accessed on March 7, 2012).
5 California Department of Conservation, Division of Mines and Geology, State of California Seismic Hazard Zones,
Beverly. Hills Quadrangle (March 25, 1999).
6 City of Santa Monica, Online Property Information System (2012) (accessed on March 7, 2012).
r California Department of Conservation, Division of Mines and Geology, State of California Seismic Hazard Zones,
Beverly Hills Quadrangle (March 25, 1999).
® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••• Page 29 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
create any new impacts associated with unstable or expansive soils. No impacts would
occur.
e) No Impact. The project site is located in the City of Santa Monica, which is entirely supported
by existing wastewater infrastructure. Alternative wastewater disposal systems would not be
necessary. Therefore, no impacts related to soils supporting septic tanks or alternative
wastewater disposal systems would occur.
VIII. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS. Would the project:
(a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly ❑ ❑ ® ❑
or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on
the environment?
(b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy, or ❑ ❑ ❑
regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the
emissions of greenhouse gases?
and b) No Impact. Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are gases that trap heat in the earth's
atmosphere. GHGs include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), ozone (03), water vapor,
nitrous oxide (N20), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PECS), and sulfur
hexafluoride (SF6). The international scientific communities have recognized that GHGs are
contributing to global climate change. Predicted effects of global climate change include
sea level rise, water supply changes; changes to ecosystems and habitat; and human health
effects. Not all GHGs exhibit the same ability to induce climate change; CO2 is the primary
driver of global climate change. As a result, GHG contributions are commonly quantified in
the equivalent, mass of CO2, denoted as CO2e. Most of the CO2e produced in California is
associated with transportation. Electricity generation is the second largest source.
In response to concern regarding GHGs and global climate change, the State passed
Assembly Bill 32 (AB 32) also known as the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006.
AB 32 mandated a reduction in the State's greenhouse gas levels. In addition, SB375 passed
by the State of California in 2009, requires metropolitan regions to adopt transportation plans
that reduce vehicle miles travelled.
The City of Santa Monica has also adopted the Sustainable City Plan (SCP) which includes
targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 30 percent below 1990 levels by
2015 for City government operations and 15 percent below 1990 levels by 2015 Citywide.$
The SCP anticipates that most of the reductions will achieved through increased energy
efficiency, increased renewable energy production, and reduced transportation - related
emissions through, increased use of public transit, rideshare programs, and alternatives to
driving (i.e., walking or bicycling).
In addition, the City's LUCE links new development and urban character and form with a
shift in transportation to reduce GHG emissions in accordance with the SCP. The LUCE goals
and policies align with State regulations and policies for GHG reductions. In addition, the
LUCE is intended to achieve the GHG reduction targets reflected in the SCP. The LUCE
8 City of Santa Monica, Santa Monica Sustainable City Plan (revised October 24, 2006).
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
� June 20, 2012
•.•.• .... Page 30 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
policies that follow reflect the City's commitment to achieving a reduction in GHGs through
reduction in vehicle trips:
• Policy 52.1 Implement the VMT reduction policies of the Land Use and Circulation
Element of the General Plan, including, but not limited to: focusing new growth in mixed -
use, transit oriented districts; focusing new growth along existing corridors and nodes;
support the creation of complete, walkable neighborhoods with goods and services
within walking distance of most homes; and promoting and supporting a wide range of
pedestrian, bicycle and transit improvements in the City.
• Policy 52.3 Advance the No Net New Trips goal in the Land Use and Circulation Element
with TDM projects such as expanded rideshore programs, parking management
strategies, as well as development impact fees for public transit infrastructure.
• Policy LU2.5 Vehicle Trip Reduction. Achieve vehicle trip reduction through
comprehensive strategies that designate land uses, establish development and street
design standards, implement sidewalk, bicycle and roadway improvements, expand
transit service, manage parking, and strengthen Transportation Demand Management
programs that support accessibility by transit, bicycle and foot, and discourage vehicle
trips at a district -wide level. Monitor progress using tools that integrate land use and
transportation factors. Increase bicycle and pedestrian connectivity in transit districts and
adjust bus and shuttle services to ensure success of the transit system.
• Policy LU8.3 Pedestrian Bicycle and Transit Connections. Ensure transit mobility by
creating facilities for comfortable walking throughout the City, a complete and safe
bicycle network, and convenient and frequent transit service that will make transit an
attractive option for all types of trips.
Neither the SCAQMD nor the CEQA Guidelines have established numeric or qualitative
thresholds of significance for greenhouse gas emissions. The CEQA Guideline Amendments,
adopted in December 2010, state that each local lead agency must develop its own
significance criteria based on local conditions, data, and guidance from public agencies
and other sources.
The information provided in this section is based on recently established California goals for
reducing GHG emissions, as well as a project specific emissions inventory developed for the
proposed project. How a proposed project might contribute to GCC and the overall effect
of an individual project based on that contribution are still being debated. As previously
discussed, no statewide thresholds or methodologies for determining the significance of a
project's potential cumulative contribution to GCC have been adopted to date. An
individual project (unless it is a massive construction project, such as a dam or a new
freeway project, or a large fossil fuel fired power plant) does not generate sufficient GHG
emissions to directly influence GCC; therefore, the issue of global climate change typically
involves an analysis of whether a project's contribution towards a cumulative impact is
cumulatively considerable. "Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects
of an individual project are significant when viewed in connection with the effects of past
projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects.
The significance threshold utilized for the City of Santa Monica is based on the
methodologies recommended by the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association
( CAPCOA), CEQA, and the Climate Change white paper (January 2008). CAPCOA
conducted an analysis of various approaches and significance thresholds, ranging from a
zero threshold (all projects are cumulatively considerable) to a high of 40,000 to
50,000 metric tons (MT) of CO2. For example, an approach assuming a zero threshold and
compliance with AB 32 2020 targets would require all discretionary projects to achieve a
33 percent reduction from projected BAU emissions to be considered less than significant. A
0 m City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
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•••••,•• Page 31 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
zero threshold approach could be considered on the basis that climate change is a global
phenomenon, and not controlling small source emissions would potentially neglect a major
portion of the GHG inventory. However, the CEQA Guidelines also recognize that there may
be a point where a project's contribution, although. above zero, would not be a
considerable contribution to the cumulative impact (CEQA Guidelines, Section 15130(a)).
Therefore, a threshold of greater than zero is considered more appropriate for the analysis of
GHG emissions under CEQA.
Another method would use a quantitative threshold of greater than 900 MT CO2e per year
based on a market capture approach that requires mitigation for greater than 90 percent of
likely future discretionary development. This threshold would generally correspond to office
projects of approximately 35,000 sf, retail projects of approximately 11,000 sf, or supermarket
space of approximately 6,300 sf. Another potential threshold would be the 10,000 MT
standard used by the Market Advisory Committee for inclusion in a GHG Cap and Trade
System in California. A 10,000 MT significance threshold would correspond to the GHG
emissions of approximately 550 residential units, 400,000 sf of office space, 120,000 sf of retail,
and 70,000 sf of supermarket space. This threshold would capture roughly half of new
residential or commercial development. The basic concepts for the various approaches
suggested by CAPCOA are used herein to determine whether or not the proposed project's
GHG emissions are "cumulatively considerable."
CAPCOA's suggested quantitative thresholds are generally more applicable to
development on sites at the periphery of metropolitan areas, also known as "greenfield"
sites, where there would be an increase in vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and associated GHG
emissions than to infill development, which would generally reduce regional VMT and
associated emissions. As the City of Santa Monica is generally built out, most commercial
development within the City is infill or redevelopment and would be expected to generally
reduce VMT and reliance on the drive -alone automobile use as compared to further
suburban growth at the periphery of the region. A reduction in vehicle use and VMT can
result in a reduction in fuel consumption and in air pollutant emissions, including GHG
emissions. Recent research indicates that infill development reduces VMT and associated air
pollutant emissions, as compared to greenfield sites. For example, a 1999 simulation study
conducted for the USEPA, comparing infill development to greenfield development, found
that infill development results in substantially fewer VMT per capita (39 percent compared to
52 percent) and generates fewer emissions of most air pollutants and GHGs.
For this reason, the most conservative (i.e., lowest) thresholds, suggested by CAPCOA, would
not be appropriate for the proposed project given that it is located in a community that is
highly urbanized. Similarly, the 900 -ton threshold was also determined to be too conservative
for general development in the South Coast Air Basin. Thus, a project's contribution to
cumulative impacts to global climate change is considered cumulatively considerable if the
proposed project would generate 10,000 MT CO2e. Consequently, the threshold of 10,000 MT
CO2e is used as a quantitative benchmark for significance.
Construction
Emissions from construction activities would occur from the operation of vehicles and
equipment used in the demolition and construction of the proposed project. Following the
SCAQMD recommendations, construction emissions were amortized over an anticipated 30-
year project lifetime to provide an average annual emissions estimate. Table GHG -1
(Estimated Annual CO2e Emissions) shows the total estimated annual GHG emissions from
CaIEEMod by source.
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012-
•••••••••• Page 32 of 119
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Carbon Dioxide (CO2) 1 381.45
Methane (CH4) 1 0.04
Nitrous Oxide (N20) 1 0.00
Subtotal 381.49
Amortized Construction 12.72
Total 1 694.06
Significant? (> 10,000 MT CO2e) I No
SOURCE: Atkins (2012) (CalEEMod outputs available as Appendix 8 to this
Mitigated Negative Declaration).
Although the proposed project would contribute GHG emissions as a result of construction
activity, construction emissions would be temporary in nature (approximately 12 months)
and would not contribute to long term emissions. In addition, the estimated construction
emissions of greenhouse gases (approximately 381.49 MT CO2e) would not exceed the
10,000 MT threshold.
The proposed project would not increase GHG emissions, but rather, would support the
reduction of GHG emissions in the City. The proposed project would implement pedestrian
and bicycle improvements including a new cycle track, expanded pedestrian facilities and
improved pedestrian access (crosswalks and refuges), circulation modifications, and
updated streetscape. The proposed transformation of Colorado Avenue into an active multi-
modal street would enable and promote visitors and residents to travel by walking or biking,
thereby reducing City -wide GHG emissions that otherwise be generated by automobile use.
Implementation of the proposed project would be consistent with the City's SCP and the
LUCE for reducing GHG emissions and would have a beneficial impact in reducing GHG
emissions. Therefore, no significant impacts relative to GHG emissions would occur.
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
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Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
a through c) Less -Than- Significant Impact with Mitigation. The proposed project consists of
circulation modifications, streetscape improvements and design enhancements to convert
Colorado Avenue into a complete multi -modal street. Based on a review of the lists that are
compiled pursuant to Government Code §65962.5, the project site is not located on a
hazardous materials site list.9 However, the Sears Retail Center located at 302 Colorado
Avenue, adjacent to the project site, on the south side of Colorado Avenue, is identified on
the State Water Resources Control Board Geotracker database as an open Leaking
9 California Environmental Protection Agency, Cortese List Data Resources,
http; //v . calepa. ca.gov /sitecleanup /corteselist/ (accessed April 3, 2012).
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
..... ... Page 34 of 119
-
Less Than
Significant
Potentially with Less -Than-
Significant Miligation Significant No
Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
IX.
HAZARDS /HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Would the project:
(a)
Create a significant hazard to the public or the
❑ ® ❑ ❑
environment through the routine transport, use, or
disposal of hazardous materials?
(b)
Create a significant hazard to the public or the
❑ ® ❑ ❑
environment through reasonably foreseeable upset
and accident conditions involving the release of
hazardous materials into the environment?
(c)
Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or
❑ ® ❑ ❑
acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste
within 0.25 mile of an existing or proposed school?
(d)
Be located on a site that is included on a list of
❑ ❑ ❑
hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to
Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result,
would it create a significant hazard to the public or
the environment?
(e)
If located within an airport land use plan or, where
❑ ❑ ❑
such a plan has not been adopted, within 2 miles
of a public airport or public use airport, result in a
safety hazard for people residing or working in the
project area?
(f)
If within the vicinity of a private airstrip, result in a
❑ ❑ ❑
safety hazard for people residing or working in the
project area?
(g)
Impair implementation of or physically interfere with
❑ ❑ ® ❑
an adopted emergency response plan or
emergency evacuation plan?
(h)
Expose people or structures to a significant risk of
❑ ❑ ❑
loss, injury, or death involving wildland fires,
including where wildlands are adjacent to
urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed
with wildlands?
a through c) Less -Than- Significant Impact with Mitigation. The proposed project consists of
circulation modifications, streetscape improvements and design enhancements to convert
Colorado Avenue into a complete multi -modal street. Based on a review of the lists that are
compiled pursuant to Government Code §65962.5, the project site is not located on a
hazardous materials site list.9 However, the Sears Retail Center located at 302 Colorado
Avenue, adjacent to the project site, on the south side of Colorado Avenue, is identified on
the State Water Resources Control Board Geotracker database as an open Leaking
9 California Environmental Protection Agency, Cortese List Data Resources,
http; //v . calepa. ca.gov /sitecleanup /corteselist/ (accessed April 3, 2012).
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
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..... ... Page 34 of 119
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Environmental Issues
Underground Storage Tank (LUST) case currently under site assessment.70 According to the
GeoTracker database, no remediation has been undertaken but the leaking underground
storage tank discovered during tank closure was stopped by closing the tank and filling in
place. Additionally, the former Sears Auto Center located at 402 Colorado Avenue, the site
of the future Expo LRT Station, is identified on the Department of Toxic Substances Control's
(DTSC) EnviroStor database as a voluntary cleanup site and indicates that removal and
remediation tasks were completed in early 2010 after demolition of the former Sears Auto
Center." Although the project site is not identified on hazardous materials site list, due to the
project site's proximity to a site that has recently undergone remediation and a site that is
listed as an open LUST case, the potential exists that project has previous been
contaminated. In order to minimize potential risks associated with unknown contamination,
in the event that contamination is encountered during earth moving activities, mitigation
measure MM HAZ -1 would be implemented, which requires investigation and remediation
efforts at the project site reducing potential impacts during construction to a less -than-
significant level.
MM HAZ -I In the event that previously unknown or unidentified soil and /or groundwater
contamination that could present a threat to human health or the
environment is encountered during construction at the project site,
construction activities in the immediate vicinity of the contamination shall
cease immediately. A qualified environmental specialist (e.g., a licensed
Professional Geologist [PGj, a licensed Professional Engineer [PEI or similarly
qualified individual) shall conduct an investigation to identify and to
determine the level of soil and /or groundwater contamination. If
contamination is encountered, a Risk Management Plan shall be prepared
and implemented that (1) identifies the contaminants of concern and the
potential risk each contaminant would pose to human health and the
environment during construction and post - development and (2) describes
measures to be taken to protect workers, and the public from exposure to
potential site hazards. Such measures could include a range of options,
including, but not limited to, physical site controls during construction,
remediation, long -term monitoring, post - development maintenance or
access limitations, or some combination thereof. Depending on the nature of
contamination, if any, appropriate agencies shall be notified (e.g.,
Department of Toxic Substances Control or Regional Water Quality Control
Board). If contamination is discovered, a Site Health and Safety Plan that
meets Occupational Safety and Health Administration requirements shall be
prepared and in place prior to commencement of work in any contaminated
area.
Operation of the proposed project would not create significant hazards due to the handling
and release of hazardous materials and emissions as the project site would continue to
operate as a public street and no new uses are proposed that would result in an increase in
hazards or use of hazardous materials. Accordingly, with implementation of mitigation
measure MM HAZ -1 impacts related to the handling, release, or emissions of hazard materials
would be less than significant.
10 State Water Resources Control Board, Geoiracker, Case Summary, Sears Retail Center fl l 178, 302 Colorado
Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90401, Los Angeles, County (accessed March 7, 2012).
it Department of Toxic Substances Control, EnviroStor, Former Sears Auto Center #6081, 402 Colorado Avenue,
Santa Monica, CA, 90401, Los Angeles County, Voluntary Cleanup (accessed March 7, 2012).
o City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
_� June 20, 2012
••• • • •• Page 35 of 119
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Environmental Issues
all Less- Than - Significant Impact. Government Code Section 65962.5, amended in 1992, requires
the California Environmental Protection Agency (CaIEPA) to develop and update annually
the Cortese List, which is a compilation of hazardous substance sites selected for remedial
action, public drinking water wells with detectable levels of contamination, sites with
underground storage tanks (USTs) having a reportable release, sites with known toxic
material identified through the abandoned site assessment program, and all solid waste
disposal facilities from which there is a known migration. Based on a review of the lists that
are compiled pursuant to Government Code §65962.5, the project site is not located on a
hazardous materials site list. As the project site is not identified on hazardous materials site list,
a less- than - significant impact would occur.
e and f) No Impact. The project site is located approximately 2 miles northwest of the Santa
Monica Airport. However, the project site is not located in the area covered by an airport
land use plan. No other airports or private airstrips are located in the vicinity of the proposed
project site. The proposed project does not include any elements that would create an
airport - related safety hazards for the people residing or working in the area. Therefore, no
impact would occur.
g) Less - Than - Significant Impact. Colorado Avenue would be reconfigured to provide two lanes
of vehicular travel in a westbound only direction. The newly reconfigured Colorado Avenue
and the realigned intersection of Colorado Avenue with 2nd Street /Main Street have been
designed to accommodate emergency access vehicles (including fire trucks), it is
anticipated that eastbound emergency vehicles would be able to travel using other parallel
streets including the new Olympic Boulevard extension that will be constructed to the east of
the site. During construction of the proposed project, necessary roadway closures would be
coordinated with the City's Police and Fire Departments to ensure that emergency access is
maintained at all times. As such, the proposed project would not interfere with adopted
emergency response or evacuation plans. The impact would be less than significant.
h) No Impact. The project site is located in an urbanized area where no wildlands are present.
Furthermore, the project site is not designated by the California Department of Forestry and
Fire Protection as a Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Therefore, no wildfire impacts would occur.
o City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
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Environmental Issues
(h) Place within a 100 -year flood hazard area
❑
Less Than
Significant
Potentially with Less -Thon-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Imp act Incorporated Im act - Impact
X.
HYDROLOGY /WATER QUALITY. Would the project:
structures that would impede or redirect flood
(a)
Violate any water quality standards or waste
❑ ❑ ® ❑
discharge requirements?
(b)
Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or
❑ ❑ ® ❑
(i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of
interfere substantially with groundwater recharge
❑
❑
such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer
loss, injury, or death involving flooding, including
volume or a lowering of the local groundwater
table level (e.g., the production rate of pre- existing
nearby wells would drop to a level that would not
(j) Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow?
support existing land uses or planned uses for which
❑
❑
permits have been granted)?
(c)
Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of
❑ ❑ ® ❑
the site or area, including through the alteration of
the course of a stream or river, in a manner that
would result in substantial erosion or siltation on or
off site?
(d)
Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of
❑ ❑ ® ❑
the site or area, including through the alteration of
the course of a stream or river, or substantially
increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a
manner that would result in flooding on or off site?
(e)
Create or contribute runoff water that would
❑ ❑ ® ❑
exceed the capacity of existing or planned
stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial
additional sources of polluted runoff?
(f)
Otherwise substantially degrade water quality?
❑ ❑ ® ❑
(g)
Place housing within a 100 -year flood hazard area
❑ ❑ ❑
as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or
Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard
delineation map?
(h) Place within a 100 -year flood hazard area
❑
❑
❑
structures that would impede or redirect flood
flows?
(i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of
❑
❑
❑
loss, injury, or death involving flooding, including
flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam?
(j) Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow?
❑
❑
❑
a) Less - Than - Significant Impact. Construction of the proposed project would require minimal
grading and earthwork. During grading and earthwork activities, exposed and stockpiled
soils on the construction site could be subject to minor erosion and conveyed via stormwater
runoff into municipal storm drains. However, construction activities are required to occur in
a� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
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Environmental Issues
accordance with the City of Santa Monica Urban Runoff Pollution Ordinance (Chapter 7.10
of the Santa Monica Municipal Code). In accordance with the ordinance, Best
Management Practices (BMPs) and pollutant control measures would be employed during
project construction to minimize pollutants and reduce runoff to levels that comply with
applicable water quality standards. The following urban runoff reduction requirements are
required to be implemented during construction:
• Polluted runoff (including runoff containing sediments and /or construction wastes) shall
not leave the construction parcel. No wash water from any type of cement and
concrete machinery or concrete mix truck shall be allowed to leave the construction
parcel. Any washing of equipment in the right -of -way shall be contained and properly
disposed.
• Any sediment or other materials that are tracked off the parcel by vehicles and
equipment shall be removed the some day as they are tracked off the parcel. Where
determined to be necessary, a temporary sediment control BMP shall be installed.
• For any paint removal, paint preparation, or sandblasting activities that will result in
particles entering the air or landing on the ground, BMP steps shall be implemented to
prevent or minimize to the maximum extent practicable such particle releases into the
environment.
• Plastic covering shall be utilized to prevent erosion of an otherwise unprotected area,
e.g., exposed or open to elements, along with treatment control BMPs to intercept and
safely convey the runoff to the MS4.
• No washing of construction or other vehicles shall be allowed adjacent to a construction
parcel. No polluted runoff from washing vehicles on a construction parcel shall be
allowed to leave the parcel.
• Erosion drainage controls shall be utilized depending on the extent of proposed grading
and topography of the parcel to prevent runoff, including, but not limited to, any of the
following:
1. Detention ponds, sediment ponds or infiltration pits
2. Dikes, filter berms or ditches
3. Down drains, chutes or flumes (added by Ord. No. 1992CCS § 1 [part], adopted
11 /28/00; amended by Ord. No. 2317CCS § 1, adopted 7/27/10)
Compliance with the above regulatory requirements would minimize pollutant levels in urban
runoff during construction. Therefore, project construction impacts related to the violation of
water quality standards or waste discharge requirements would be less than significant.
With regard to operation, the proposed project would comply with the Urban Runoff
Pollution Ordinance either through the payment of the in lieu fee or would capture, treat,
and reuse the runoff water on site. As such, the proposed project would have a beneficial
impact in reducing pollutant runoff and impacts would be less than significant.
b) Less - Than - Significant Impact. Construction of the proposed project would require minimal
grading. No major excavations to groundwater table depth would be required. Therefore,
no withdrawal of groundwater (i.e., dewatering system) would be necessary for construction
of the proposed project.
With regard to operation, the proposed project would implement streetscape improvements
to create a multi -modal street. Design elements including water features and water
fountains may be included as part of the proposed project. However, the water demand
e City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
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Environmental Issues
associated with these design elements would not be substantial. As such, operation of the
proposed project would not substantially deplete groundwater supplies. Project impacts
would be less than significant.
c) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The majority of the project site is impervious and developed as
a public street with the exception of a few planted street trees and the landscaped Main
Street triangle. On -site water management will follow the City of Santa Monica's Stormwater
Guidelines for New Construction as well as the City of Santa Monica Urban Watershed
Management Plan. The proposed project would continue to operate as an existing street.
No new land uses or development are proposed. Therefore, the proposed project would not
increase the amount of stormwater runoff. Thus, the existing drainage patterns would be
maintained. In addition, project construction would also comply with the requirements of the
City's Urban Runoff Pollution Ordinance. The Esplanade project is within the zone (west of 4rh
Street) deemed unsafe for infiltration due to the impact on the bluffs. Therefore, the project
would comply with the Urban Runoff Pollution Ordinance either through the payment of the
in lieu fee or would capture, treat, and reuse the runoff water on site. Furthermore, there are
no streams or rivers within the project site or in the surrounding area. As such, implementation
of the project would not substantially alter the existing drainage pattern such that substantial
erosion or siltation would occur. Impacts would be less than significant.
d) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The majority of the project site is impervious and developed as
a public street with the exception of a few planted street trees and the landscaped Main
Street triangle. The proposed project would continue to operate as an existing street. No
new land uses or development are proposed. On -site water management will follow the City
of Santa Monica's Stormwater Guidelines for New Construction as well as the City of Santa
Monica Urban Watershed Management Plan. Therefore, the proposed project would not
increase the amount of stormwater runoff. The Esplanade project is within the zone (west of
41h Street) deemed unsafe for infiltration due to the impact on the bluffs. Therefore, the
project would meet the Ordinance either through the payment of the in lieu fee or the
project would capture, treat, and uses the water on site. Surface water runoff would
continue to flow into nearby municipal drains and /or catch basins. Thus, the existing
drainage patterns would be maintained. Furthermore, there are no streams or rivers within
the project site or in the surrounding area. Thus, project implementation would not
substantially alter the existing drainage pattern such that substantial flooding on- or off -site
would occur. Impacts would be less than significant.
e) Less- Than - Significant Impact. The majority of the project site is impervious and developed as
a public street with the exception of a few planted street trees and the landscaped Main
Street triangle. On -site water management will follow the City of Santa Monica's Stormwater
Guidelines for New Construction as well as the City of Santa Monica Urban Watershed
Management Plan. The proposed project would continue to operate as an existing street.
No new land uses or development are proposed. Therefore, the proposed project would not
increase the amount of stormwater runoff. The Esplanade project is within the zone (west of
4th Street) deemed unsafe for infiltration due to the impact on the bluffs. Therefore, the
project would meet the Ordinance either through the payment of the in lieu fee or the
project would capture, treat, and uses the water on site. Furthermore, the City's Department
of Public Works would have final review and approval of all project site plans to ensure that
adequate drainage would be provided to accommodate the project's stormwater flows.
Therefore, the proposed project would not create or contribute to runoff water that would
exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide
substantial additional sources of polluted runoff. Impacts would be less than significant.
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••• -•• Page 39 of 119
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Environmental Issues
Less - Than - Significant Impact. As discussed previously, in accordance with the City's Urban
Runoff Pollution Ordinance, Best Management Practices (BMPs) would be implemented
during project construction to minimize erosion and pollutants in stormwater runoff. In
addition, landscaping elements incorporated into the Esplanade would minimize pollutant
runoff throughout the operational life of the project. As such, implementation of the
proposed project would not substantially degrade water quality. Impacts would be less than
significant.
g and h) No Impact. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood
Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) for the City of Santa Monica12, the project site is not located
within a 100 -year flood plain. Additionally, the proposed project does not include new land
uses including residential uses, nor does it include the construction of any habitat structures.
Therefore, the proposed project would not place housing or structures within a 100 -year
flood plain. No impacts would occur.
i) No Impact. No dams, levees, or above - ground flood control channels exist in the City of
Santa Monica. Therefore, the proposed project would not expose people or structures to a
significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or
dam. No impacts would occur.
j) No Impact. A seiche is a standing wave occurring in an enclosed or partially enclosed body
of water, such as a lake, reservoir, or bay. There are no enclosed or partially enclosed bodies
of water near the project site. Therefore, the potential for inundation from a seiche is
considered remote. No impacts relative to a seiche would occur.
A tsunami is a large ocean wave caused by a significant undersea disturbance such as
earthquakes. Areas susceptible to a tsunami in the City include areas below the Palisades
Bluff and approximately 0.25 mile from the ocean. The project site is located less than
0.25 mile (east) of the Pacific Ocean. However, given the site's elevated location from the
ocean, the project site is not mapped in a City designated tsunami hazard area.73 Therefore,
inundation risk from a tsunami is considered low. No impacts would occur.
Mudflows (also called debris flows) result from the downslope movement of soil and /or rock
under the influence of gravity. The project site and vicinity is characterized by relatively flat
topography. Given the absence of any steep slopes nearby, the project site would not be at
risk from inundation by mudflow. No impacts would occur.
12 Federal Emergency Management Agency, Panel 1590 of 2350 (September 2008), msc.fema.gov (accessed
April 2012).
13 City of Santa Monica, Online Property Information System (2012) (accessed on March 7, 2012).
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
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XI. LAND USE /PLANNING. Would the project:
(a) Physically divide an established community?
Less Than
❑
Significant
Potentially
with Less -Than-
Significant
Mitigation Significant No
❑
XI. LAND USE /PLANNING. Would the project:
(a) Physically divide an established community?
❑
❑
❑
(b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy,
❑
❑
❑
or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the
project (including, but not limited to, the general
plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or
zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of
avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect?
(c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation
❑
❑
❑
plan or natural community conservation plan?
a) No Impact. The project site is completely developed as an existing street. Surrounding land
uses consists predominantly of commercial uses and a parking structure to the north, the
Santa Monica Pier to the west, a hotel, Sears building, and the future Palisades Garden Walk
(a park) to the south, and the future downtown terminus of the Exposition light -rail line to the
east. As the proposed project consists of the redesign of Colorado Avenue to create an
active pedestrian - friendly linkages between the Expo light -rail downtown station, the Santa
Monica Pier, and Civic Center, the proposed project would not result in the physical division
of an establish community. Therefore, no impact would occur.
b) No Impact. The proposed project site includes the Colorado Avenue public roadway,
sidewalks and associated landscaped areas (between 4th Street and Ocean Avenue). The
project also includes the northern sidewalk of Colorado Avenue from 4th to 5th Streets and
limited areas north and south of Colorado Avenue on 2nd Street, Main Street, and 4th Street.
As the project site is located entirely within public right -of -way, no zoning or General Plan
designations are applicable.
Land use plans applicable to the proposed project include the City's LUCE, the LCP LUP, the
Downtown Urban Design Plan, and the Civic Center Specific Plan. The LUCE identifies the
project site as the Colorado Esplanade, and includes policies that encourage /require the
conversion of Colorado Avenue between 4th Street and Ocean Avenue into a pedestrian -
enhanced street that serves as a gateway into the City from the future Expo LRT Station and
provides pedestrian and bicycle connections to destinations in the area. The LUP identifies
policies intended to ensure maximum access to the coast, protect coastal resources, and
promote transit, bicycle and pedestrian access within the Coastal Zone. The Downtown
Urban Design Plan and the Civic Center Specific Plan encourages the creation of an
attractive street network that includes mixed -mode streets that accommodate pedestrians,
bicyclists, motorists, and transit users; serve as gathering places and open space resources;
and provides linkages between destinations and activity centers.
Table LU -1 (Consistency with LUCE policies) analyzes the consistency of the proposed project
with relevant policies contained in the LUCE.
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Environmental Issues
Policy LU1.6 Complete Streets and Open
Spaces. Encourage neighborhood streets to
function as neighborhood gathering places
that promote sociability and human
interaction, and feature pedestrian and
bicycle - friendly design, within a rich canopy
of street trees and parkway landscaping.
Policy LU2.3 Activity Centers. Create vibrant
activity centers at select transit crossroads
along the boulevards with unique and
attractive spaces for meeting, local
shopping and living, that include
opportunities for affordable and workforce
housing for new and existing residents. .
Consistent. The proposed project would
implement circulation modifications,
streetscape improvements, and design
enhancements to create a gateway into
the City from the Expo LRT Station; a multi -
modal street that accommodates
pedestrians, transit users, bicyclists, and
motorists; and connections between the
Expo LRT Station, Downtown, Palisades
Garden Walk, the Pier, Palisades Park, and
the Civic Center. The proposed project
would transform Colorado Avenue within
the project site into a multi -modal street
that supports pedestrian, transit, and
bicycle users through the provision of
widened sidewalks, a two -way cycle track,
a reduction in the number of vehicular
lanes, the realignment of Main Street,
enhanced crosswalks, and new
signalization. Pedestrian and bicycle
facilities would be improved and
expanded. Improvements to the Main
Street Triangle, an existing landscaped
area located on the south side of
Colorado Avenue at Main Street would be
improved to create a pedestrian gateway
to the Civic Center District and create a
space for public gathering. The Colorado
Avenue streetscape would be enhanced
with decorative paving, inlaid wayfinding,
street furniture, lighting, landscaping, and
public art in order to improve the
pedestrian realm. Substantial landscaping,
decorative free - standing signs, markers,
bike racks, and other streetscape
treatments would be provided throughout
the Esplanade to delineate the pedestrian,
bicycle, and vehicle zones.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6.
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Environmental Issues
Policy LU2.5 Vehicle Trip Reduction. Achieve
vehicle trip reduction through
comprehensive strategies that designate
land uses, establish development and street
design standards, implement sidewalk,
bicycle and roadway improvements,
expand transit service, manage parking,
and strengthen Transportation Demand
Management programs that support
accessibility by transit, bicycle, and foot,
and discourage vehicle trips at a district -
wide level. Monitor progress using tools that
integrate land use and transportation
factors. Increase bicycle and pedestrian
connectivity in transit districts and adjust bus
and shuttle service to ensure success of the
transit system.
Policy LU2.6 Active Spaces. Focus new
development in defined districts to enable
active places that can support diverse
local- serving retail and services, walkability,
arts and culture. Require, whenever
possible, new development to provide
convenient and direct pedestrian and
bicycle connections.
Policy LU4.4 Pedestrian - Oriented Design.
Engage pedestrians with ground -floor uses,
building design, site planning, massing, and
signage that promote vibrant street life and
emphasize transit and bicycle access.
Policy LU4.5 Art and Amenities. Foster
creativity and the arts through
programming, uses and site improvements
such as the provision of community spaces,
public art, and creative design of public
improvements.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6.
Colorado Avenue would be reconfigured
to provide a widened sidewalk (pedestrian
promenade) and a cycle track on the
south side, and two westbound -only travel
lanes. The pedestrian promenade along
the south side of Colorado Avenue would
aggregate additional sidewalk onto the
south side. Locating the widened sidewalk
on the south side would minimize potential
areas of vehicle and pedestrian conflict
(e.g., driveway /sidewalk interface and
roadway /sidewalk interface). The cycle
track would be provided also on the south
side (between the south sidewalk and
travel lanes) and would allow bicycle
travel in both directions. The cycle track
would be separated from the vehicular
travel lanes by a buffer. The sidewalk along
the north side of Colorado Avenue would
be maintained or expanded by up to
5 feet in width.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6 and
Policy 2.5.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6 and
Policy 2.5.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6.
There may be opportunities to display
public art along the Esplanade.
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Policy LU4.7 Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Transit
Access. Emphasize pedestrian and bicycle
access throughout the City, with a special
focus in neighborhood gathering areas.
Provide direct and convenient bicycle and
pedestrian connections between
destinations. Prioritize land use patterns that
generate high transit ridership at major
transit stops.
Policy LU5.2 Integrate Transit Connections.
Integrate supporting transit linkages, as well
as pedestrian and bicycle connections, at
all stations. Parking developed at or near
the station is shared with other uses and
priced to ensure availability at all times.
Policy LU5.3 Create Inviting Station Areas.
Incorporate landscaped, enhanced and
inviting open space, plazas, and transit -
serving uses into station designs.
Policy LU6.1 Access and Circulation.
Maximize the potential of existing and future
assets such as the Expo Light Rail station,
oceanfront vistas, and proximity to diverse
neighborhoods. Pursue comprehensive
parking and circulation strategies between
the Downtown and Civic Center.
Policy LU6.2 Vital Downtown. Support the
continued transition of Downtown to a
thriving, mixed -use urban environment for
people to live, work, be entertained, and
culturally enriched.
Policy LU6.3 Connections and Open Space.
Encourage the development of connective
open space and bicycle and pedestrian
linkages between the Civic Center,
Downtown and the Oceanfront /Pier.
Policy LU13.1 Maintain Character. Reinforce
the City's distinctive natural, social, and
environmental characteristics including its
beachfront and connections to the water,
its civic and cultural institutions, terrain and
climate, and the geographic fabric of
neighborhoods and boulevards.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6 and
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
provide enhanced connectivity between
the future LRT station and the Pier, beach,
and downtown.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
provide enhanced connectivity to
facilitate transit use.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
Policy 2.5.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
Policy 2.5.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
provide enhanced connectivity of the
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6.
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Environmental Issues
Policy 1.1.1115.11 Create Pedestrian - Oriented
Boulevards. Orient the City's auto -
dependent boulevards into inviting avenues
with wider sidewalks, improved transit,
distinctive architecture, landscaping, trees
and planted medians and neighborhood
friendly services -- defining a new sense of
place where local residents will be attracted
to shop, work, live, and play.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
provide enhanced connectivity of the
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown.
Policy LU15.5 Pedestrian and Bicycle
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
Connectivity. Encourage the design of sites
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
and buildings to facilitate easy pedestrian
provide enhanced connectivity of the
and bicycle- oriented connections and to
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
minimize the separation created by parking
and downtown.
lots and driveways.
Policy LU 17.2 Active Streets for Living. Utilize
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6 and
streets as the largest and most universally
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
accessible public spaces in the community
provide enhanced connectivity of the
by improving them with landscaping,
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
particularly shade trees, pedestrian facilities,
and downtown.
and other enhancements that promote
active recreation to create a system of
green connections throughout the City.
Policy LU18.1 Accessibility. Preserve, protect,
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
enhance, and maintain open access to the
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
City's beach areas in a manner that
provide enhanced connectivity of the
respects adjacent uses, with particular
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
emphasis on pedestrian and bicycle access.
and downtown.
Policy LU18.3 Increase Connections. Create
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
additional connections and upgrade
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
existing routes to the beach and
provide enhanced connectivity of the
oceanfront.
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown.
Policy LU19.2 Balanced Modes. Design and
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
operate streets with all users in mind
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
including bicyclists, transit users, drivers, and
provide a separated cycle track and
pedestrians of all ages and abilities.
enhanced and widened sidewalk along
Colorado Avenue to promote safety of
pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists.
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Policy LU19.3 Streets as Open Space. As the
City's most extensive open space network,
seek opportunities to expand use of streets,
alleys and other public rights -of -way for
open space, passive recreational use, and
landscaping.
Policy LU20.1 Continuous Tree Canopy.
Continue to enhance the tree canopy and
coverage throughout the community by
coordinated tree planting according to the
Urban Forest Master Plan.
Policy LU20.2 Street Landscaping. Provide
street landscaping and streetscape features
to enhance the public realm throughout the
City. Increase landscaping in medians,
parkways, and residual areas resulting from
changes to parking or traffic patterns.
Policy LU20.3 Maintaining the Urban Forrest.
Encourage properties adjacent to the
public right of way to contribute to the
urban forest environment through on site
plantings and street tree care and
maintenance.
Policy N27.1 Prioritize the preparation of a
Downtown Specific Plan designed to
address key issues related the height,
density, use and other land use or
transportation regulations. Items that could
be explored include:
Land Use, Urban Design and
Development standards that prescribe:
> Circulation and transportation
improvements, with particular
emphasis on the Expo Light Rail
terminus station and linkages to new
and existing multi -modal systems.
Policy B14.2 Implement a streetscape plan
with the construction of the rail line for the
public right -of -way along the avenue
between the Memorial Park Station and
Downtown.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
provide enhanced connectivity of the
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown. The project would include
an integrated bicycle, pedestrian, and
vehicular design that would facilitate
connectivity of the future LRT station with
the Pier, oceanfront, and downtown.
Consistent. The proposed project would
remove the street trees along the south
side of Colorado but would provide
replacement landscaping to maintain the
continuous tree canopy along Colorado
Avenue.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
include substantial streetscape features,
pedestrian amenities, and street
landscaping along Colorado Avenue
between 51h Street and Ocean Avenue.
Consistent. The proposed project would
remove the street trees along the south
side of Colorado but would provide
replacement landscaping to maintain the
continuous tree canopy along Colorado
Avenue.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6 and
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
provide enhanced connectivity of the
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
provide an integrated and enhanced
streetscape between 51h Street and Ocean
Avenue.
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Environmental Issues
Policy D1.3 Maintain and support the Third
Street Promenade as an important asset
that serves the diverse needs of the
community, from a regional destination to
an important center of activity.
Policy D1.5 Focus new investment in the
areas of the Downtown District that are
accessible to transit, contribute to the
pedestrian- oriented environment, and
support substantial community benefits such
as:
Near the proposed Expo Light Rail
Station.
Policy D2.1 Develop a pedestrian gateway
plaza at 41h and Colorado where riders are
greeted, oriented and directed to their
destination.
Policy D2.2 Encourage Expo Light Rail station
access, including a second entrance at the
southern end of the platform, which is well
integrated with path of travel and other
functions and amenities in the station area.
Policy D2.3 Encourage amenities in the
station plaza area to enhance both the
transit experience and the Downtown
environment.
Consistent. The proposed project would
provide enhanced connectivity between
the future LRT station and the downtown,
including the Third Street Promenade.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6 and
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
provide enhanced connectivity of the
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6 and
Policy 2.5. In addition, The intersection of 4th
Street and Colorado Avenue and 2nd
Street /Main Street and Colorado Avenue
would be modified according to the newly
configured road geometry, with signal
phases and pedestrian crosswalks to
accommodate vehicle movements and
pedestrian crossings. The paving materials
at the intersections would be improved to
mark the pedestrian crossings. In addition,
the intersection of Ocean Avenue and
Colorado Avenue would be equipped with
a new pedestrian scramble signal to
facilitate pedestrian movements across this
intersection.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6 and
Policy 2.5. While the proposed project
would not include a second entrance at
the southern edge of the future LRT
platform, it would provide enhanced
connectivity of the future LRT station with
the Pier, oceanfront, and downtown.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
provide an enhanced pedestrian
experience and provide connectivity of
the future LRT station with the Pier,
oceanfront, and downtown.
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Policy
Consistency Analysis
Policy D2.4 Capitalize on the Expo Light Rail
Consistent. The proposed project would not
line's location and arrival at the Pacific
interfere with the existing view corridor
Ocean — maximizing the dramatic viewing
down Colorado Avenue toward the ocean
experience of the Santa Monica Bay as a
and the Pier.
defining feature of Santa Monica.
Policy D3.1 Provide design consistency with
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
streetscape and plaza improvements that
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
address the concept of a gateway.
provide a gateway with streetscape
enhancements and connectivity of the
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown.
Policy D4.1 Redistribute vehicular traffic to
Consistent. Vehicular travel on the
avoid the Colorado Avenue and 41h Street
Esplanade would be provided through two
intersection.
westbound -only travel lanes. Main Street
would be realigned between the Main
Street Bridge and Colorado Avenue to
connect with 2nd Street. The intersections of
Colorado Avenue with 2nd Street /Main
Street and 4th Street would be improved
with decorative crosswalks, inlaid
wayfinding, and new traffic signals for
vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists.
Policy D4.3 Evaluate potential changes to
Consistent. See analysis of Policy D4.1,
vehicular traffic patterns to prioritize transit
Policy LU1.6, and Policy LU2.5.
and pedestrians.
Policy D5.1 Create an inviting and
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
sufficiently wide landscaped pedestrian
Policy LU2.5.
concourse on Colorado Avenue from the
Downtown Light Rail station to the Pier.
Policy D5.2 Identify clear walking routes and
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6 and
provide a quality pedestrian experience
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
such as a diagonal pathway from the
provide a gateway with streetscape
station to the Promenade through Santa
enhancements and connectivity of the
Monica Place anchor department stores.
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown. The paving materials at
the intersections would be improved to
mark the pedestrian crossings.
Policy D6.2 Identify desirable connections
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
for bicycles to /from the station, linkages to
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
existing bike lanes /paths, including the
provide a gateway with streetscape
beach bike path and address the need for
enhancements and connectivity of the
additional bike lanes /paths.
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown.
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Environmental Issues
Policy D9.1 Design and manage streets to
be an integral part of the urban open space
in the Downtown by:
• Enhancing the streets by establishing the
street as a place of public meeting and
exchange.
• Encouraging strategies such as
maintaining on- street parking, widening
sidewalks in key locations, enhancing
intersections to reduce pedestrian
crossing distance and increasing safety,
maintaining the two -way street pattern,
improving way- finding signage,
providing for activities such as farmer's
markets, and accommodating sidewalk
dining where appropriate.
Policy D9.5 Encourage public art throughout
the Downtown.
Policy D10.1 Enhance and /or increase
connections from the Downtown to the Pier,
Beach and Oceanfront areas.
Policy D12.1 Establish the Downtown Light
Rail Station as a focus of a network of
circulation that connects the Downtown,
Civic Center, Main Street, and Beach and
Oceanfront Districts.
Policy D12.2 Integrate infrastructure
improvements with circulation, transit,
parking and the parks.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6 and
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
provide a gateway with streetscape
enhancements and connectivity of the
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown.
Consistent. Substantial landscaping,
decorative free - standing signs, markers,
bike racks, and other streetscape
treatments would be provided throughout
the Esplanade to delineate the pedestrian,
bicycle, and vehicle zones. The proposed
project may also incorporate public art in
the design as appropriate.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6 and
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
provide a gateway with streetscape
enhancements and connectivity of the
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown.
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
provide a gateway with streetscape
enhancements and connectivity of the
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown.
Consistent. Street furniture and facilities
such as street and traffic lights, and their
serving utility connections, will need to be
relocated when the south sidewalk is
widened. See also analysis of Policy LU1.6
and Policy 2.5.
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Environmental Issues
The proposed project would also include an amendment to the Civic Center Specific Plan
(CCSP). The CCSP calls for 2,d Street to be extended south from its current terminus at
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Policy "
Consistency Analysis
Policy DI 6.1 Develop and improve the visual
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU 1.6 and
and physical connections between the
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
Civic Center and Downtown, Beach and
provide a gateway with streetscape
Oceanfront and the Main Street Districts
enhancements and connectivity of the
and the Ocean Park neighborhood,
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown.
Policy D16.2 Enhance the quality and
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
character of the pedestrian environment
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
with streetscape improvements including
provide a gateway with streetscape
wider sidewalks where possible, benches,
enhancements and connectivity of the
landscaping, street trees, and pedestrian
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
safety amenities such as crosswalks,
and downtown.
Policy D16.3 Develop and enhance the
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
pedestrian areas on 41h Street between Pico
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
Boulevard and Colorado Avenue with
provide a gateway with streetscape
landscaping, street trees, pedestrian
enhancements and connectivity of the
amenities, and wider Sidewalks where
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
possible.
and downtown.
Policy D16.5 Improve the connectivity
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
between the Civic Center District,
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
Downtown, Beach and Oceanfront and
provide a gateway with streetscape
Main Street Districts with integrated
enhancements and connectivity of the
pedestrian and bicycle pathways.
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown.
Policy D19.1 Enhance connections between
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
the City and the beach in accordance with
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
policies set forth in the Open Space
provide a gateway with streetscape
Element.
enhancements and connectivity of the
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown.
Policy D19.6 Preserve the public view
Consistent. The proposed project would not
corridors, including western views to the
obstruct or adversely affect the existing
ocean from the east -west streets and
view corridor along Colorado Avenue
boulevards, views to the ocean and the Pier
toward the Pier.
from Palisades Park, and views from the Pier
to the City.
Policy D20.10 Encourage a well - landscaped
Consistent. See analysis of Policy LU1.6 and
streetscape that facilitates pedestrian
Policy 2.5. The proposed project would
movement and creates places for people
provide a gateway with streetscape
to gather.
enhancements and connectivity of the
future LRT station with the Pier, oceanfront,
and downtown.
The proposed project would also include an amendment to the Civic Center Specific Plan
(CCSP). The CCSP calls for 2,d Street to be extended south from its current terminus at
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Colorado Avenue, across the Santa Monica Freeway on a new bridge to Olympic Drive, with
closure of the Main Street Bridge to vehicle traffic (See Policy OS -10 on page 25 of the CCSP
and Policy C -2). The amendment would eliminate that original proposal and would realign
Main Street with 2nd Street. With adoption of this amendment, the proposed project would
be consistent with the CCSP. Accordingly, the project would comply with applicable policies
and achieve the goals /objectives /vision of applicable land use plans including the City's
LUCE, the LUP, the Downtown Urban Design Plan, and the Civic Center Specific Plan. As
such, no conflict would occur and there would be no impact.
c) No Impact. The project site is completely developed as an existing street and is located in a
highly urbanized area. Accordingly, no Habitat Conservation Plan, or Natural Community
Conservation Plan applies to the project site. Therefore, the proposed project would not
conflict with the provisions of an applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community
conservation plan. No impacts would occur.
XII. MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the project:
(a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral ❑ ❑ ❑
resource that would be of value to the region and
the residents of the state?
(b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally important ❑ ❑ ❑
mineral resource recovery site delineated on a
local general plan, specific plan, or other land use
plan?
a) No Impact. No mineral extraction operations occur on the site or in the nearby vicinity.
Additionally, the project site is not designated as an existing mineral resource extraction area
by the State of California. Given that the project site is located within a highly urbanized
area of the City and has been previously disturbed and graded, the potential for mineral
resources to occur on -site is low. Therefore, construction and operation of the proposed
project would not result in the loss of availability of a mineral resource. No impacts would
occur.
b) No Impact. As stated above, no mineral extraction operations occur on the site or in the
nearby vicinity. Additionally, the project site is not designated as an existing mineral resource
extraction area by the State of California.14 Given that the project site is located within a
highly urbanized area of the City and has been previously disturbed and graded, the
potential for mineral resources to occur on -site is low. Therefore, construction and operation
of the proposed project would not result in the loss of a mineral resource recovery site. No
impacts would occur.
14 U.S. Geological Survey (2012).
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a) No Impact. Neighborhood effects include those impacts that might affect the "quality of
life" of the residents of adjacent and surrounding uses. Quality of life represents a composite
impression, and is usually expressed in terms of overall environment, combining ambient
noise levels, air quality, traffic congestion, and aesthetics of an area. The proposed project
would not result in an adverse impact on quality of life. Rather, the proposed project would
improve the quality of life in the community by creating a sustainable and active multi -
modal street that would serve pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles, and includes streetscape
improvements that enhances the visual quality of the area. In addition, the proposed project
would create improved connections between the Expo LRT Station, the Downtown,
Palisades Garden Walk, the Pier, and the Civic Center, as well as other destinations in the
area. Therefore, no impacts would occur.
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Less Than
Significant
Potentially
with
Less -Than-
Significant
Mitigation
.Significant
No
Impact
Incorporated
Impact
'Imp act
XIII. NEIGHBORHOOD EFFECTS. Would the project:
(a). Have considerable effects on the project
❑
❑
❑
neighborhood?
a) No Impact. Neighborhood effects include those impacts that might affect the "quality of
life" of the residents of adjacent and surrounding uses. Quality of life represents a composite
impression, and is usually expressed in terms of overall environment, combining ambient
noise levels, air quality, traffic congestion, and aesthetics of an area. The proposed project
would not result in an adverse impact on quality of life. Rather, the proposed project would
improve the quality of life in the community by creating a sustainable and active multi -
modal street that would serve pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles, and includes streetscape
improvements that enhances the visual quality of the area. In addition, the proposed project
would create improved connections between the Expo LRT Station, the Downtown,
Palisades Garden Walk, the Pier, and the Civic Center, as well as other destinations in the
area. Therefore, no impacts would occur.
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Environmental Issues
a) Less - Than - Significant Impact with Mitigation. As previously described, the proposed project
consists of streetscape improvements, design enhancements, and circulation modifications
of existing public streets, sidewalks, and landscaped areas within the project site to transform
Colorado Avenue into a multi -modal street, create a gateway from the future Expo LRT
station, and provide connections between the future Expo LRT Station, Downtown, the future
Palisades Garden Walk, the Pier, and the Civic Center, as well as other destinations dispersed
throughout the area. The proposed project would not introduce any new land uses to the
project site or generate any additional traffic in the City that would generate noise. The
proposed Colorado Esplanade project is not a traffic - generating development project but
rather is expected to result in localized shifts in travel patterns within the Downtown Santa
Monica area. Traffic volumes would not result in an increase such that noise levels along the
project vicinity roadways would noticeable increase. When evaluating changes in 24 -hour
community noise levels, a difference of 3dBA is a barely perceptible increase to most
people (Caltrans 1998). As such, operation of the proposed project would not expose
persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of established standards and less -than-
significant impact would occur.
Construction of the proposed project would involve minimal construction activities
associated with realignment of Main Street, new paving, and the expansion of sidewalks.
Construction activities associated with the proposed project could result in a small but
temporary increase in ambient noise levels. Construction noise could be generated by dirt
haulers, concrete mixers, materials delivery and on -site movement, and hand and power
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••••• Page 53 of 119
Less Than
Significant
Potentially with less -Than-
Significant Mitigation 'Significant No `.
Impact Incorporated Impact Im pact
XIV.
NOISE. Would the project:
(a)
Result in the exposure of persons to or generation of
❑ ® ❑ ❑
noise levels in excess of standards established in the
local general plan or noise ordinance, or
applicable standards of other agencies?
(b)
Result in the exposure of persons to or generation of
❑ ❑ ® ❑
excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne
noise levels?
(c)
Result in a substantial permanent increase in
❑ ❑ ® ❑
ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above
levels existing without the project?
(d)
Result in a substantial temporary or periodic
❑ ® ❑ ❑
increase in ambient noise levels in the project
vicinity above levels existing without the project?
(e)
If located within an airport land use plan or, where
❑ ❑ ® ❑
such a plan has not been adopted, within 2 miles
of a public airport or public use airport, result in the
exposure of people residing or working in the
project area to excessive noise levels?
(f)
If within the vicinity of a private airstrip, result in the
❑ ❑ ® ❑
exposure of people residing or working in the
project area to excessive noise levels?
a) Less - Than - Significant Impact with Mitigation. As previously described, the proposed project
consists of streetscape improvements, design enhancements, and circulation modifications
of existing public streets, sidewalks, and landscaped areas within the project site to transform
Colorado Avenue into a multi -modal street, create a gateway from the future Expo LRT
station, and provide connections between the future Expo LRT Station, Downtown, the future
Palisades Garden Walk, the Pier, and the Civic Center, as well as other destinations dispersed
throughout the area. The proposed project would not introduce any new land uses to the
project site or generate any additional traffic in the City that would generate noise. The
proposed Colorado Esplanade project is not a traffic - generating development project but
rather is expected to result in localized shifts in travel patterns within the Downtown Santa
Monica area. Traffic volumes would not result in an increase such that noise levels along the
project vicinity roadways would noticeable increase. When evaluating changes in 24 -hour
community noise levels, a difference of 3dBA is a barely perceptible increase to most
people (Caltrans 1998). As such, operation of the proposed project would not expose
persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of established standards and less -than-
significant impact would occur.
Construction of the proposed project would involve minimal construction activities
associated with realignment of Main Street, new paving, and the expansion of sidewalks.
Construction activities associated with the proposed project could result in a small but
temporary increase in ambient noise levels. Construction noise could be generated by dirt
haulers, concrete mixers, materials delivery and on -site movement, and hand and power
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••••• Page 53 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
tools such as hammers, skill saws, pneumatic nail guns, and power drills, as well as by the
arrival and departure of construction laborers and the on -site servicing of equipment. Typical
construction noise levels are illustrated in Table N0I -1.
Front Loader
73 -86
Trucks
82 -95
Cranes (moveable)
75 -88
Cranes (derrick)
86 -89
Vibrator
68 -82
Saws
72 -82
Pneumatic Impact Equipment
83-88
Jackhammers
81 -98
Pumps
68 -72
Generators
71 -83
Compressors
75 -87
Concrete Mixers
75 -88
Concrete Pumps
81 -85
Back Hoe
73-95
Tractor
77 -98
Scraper /Grader 80-93
Paver 85 -88
SOURCE: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Noise from Construction Equipment and
Operations, Building Equipment and Home Appliances 119711.
Machinery equipped with noise control devices or other noise - reducing design features does not
generate the some level of noise emissions as that shown in this table.
The closest noise - sensitive receptors are the multi- family residential uses located at 1539 44h
Street, adjacent to the area of construction for the proposed project. For the purposes of this
analysis, these residential uses would be within 50 feet of construction activity. Approximate
noise levels anticipated to be experienced by these nearby sensitive uses due to
construction activities occurring at the project site have been estimated and are shown in
Table NO[-2.
e� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••••_•••• Page 54 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
Ground Clearing
82
79
Excavation /Grading
86
83
Foundations
77
74
Structural
83
80
External Finishing
86
83
SOURCE: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Noise from Construction Equipment and Operations, Building
Equipment and Home Appliances (1971).
The noise levels at the off -site sensilive uses were determined with the following equation from the HMMH Transit Noise and
Vibration Impact Assessment, Final Report: Ley= Ley at 50 ft. - 20 Log(D /50), where L, =noise level of noise source, D =
distance from the noise source to the receiver, Lm ar ewa = noise level of source at 50 feet. Noise levels have been rounded
up to the nearest whole number.
Given the location of the project site in the Downtown, which has a relatively high level of
human activity and vehicular traffic, existing ambient noise levels are also. moderate to high.
Therefore, while construction activities would increase the noise levels in the project area,
the Noise Ordinance (Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 4.12.110)) allows for an up to
20 dBA increase during construction hours or 40 dBA for instantaneous noise. Further, the
Noise Ordinance limits the hours that construction activities are permitted to between
8:00 AM and 6:00 PM Monday through Friday and between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM on Saturday,
and allows for construction noise to exceed established noise thresholds so long as it occurs
between the hours of 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Exterior noise level standards for residential uses
are set at 60 dBA, thereby allowing for a maximum construction noise level of 80 dBA;
however, the City's Municipal Code allows for noise levels to exceed the 80 dBA limit as long
as they occur between the hours of 10:00 Ann and 3:00 PM on weekdays.
The closest noise - sensitive receptors are the multi- family residential uses located at 1539 44h
Street, adjacent to the area of construction for the proposed project. For the purposes of this
analysis, these residential uses would be within 50 feet of construction activity. Based on the
information presented in Table NO]-2, construction activities would potentially exceed
86 dBA during the noisiest construction period. Noise - generating activities that would exceed
the thresholds would be limited to between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM in compliance with the
Noise Ordinance (Section 4.12.110(d) of the SMMC). In addition to compliance with the
SMMC, mitigation measures would be required to reduce impacts associated with
construction noise to a less- than - significant level. With mitigation and compliance with the
Noise Ordinance, construction of the proposed project would not expose persons to or
generation of noise levels in excess of established standards and a less- than - significant
impact would occur.
MM NOI -1 The City's construction contracts for the proposed project shall require
implementation of the following construction best management practices
(BMPs) by all construction contractors and subcontractors working in or
around the project site to reduce construction noise levels:
Construction equipment shall be properly muffled according to
manufactures specifications or as required by the City's Department of
Building and Safety, whichever is the more stringent.
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
- June 20, 2012
••••• Page 55 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
• Noise - generating construction equipment and construction staging areas
shall be located away from sensitive uses, where feasible, to the
satisfaction of the Department of Building and Safety.
• Noise - attenuation measures shall be implemented, which may include,
but are not limited to, noise barriers or noise blankets to the satisfaction of
the City's Department of Building and Safety.
MM NOI -2 The City's construction contracts for the proposed project shall include the
requirement that construction staging areas, construction worker parking and
the operation of earthmoving equipment within the project site, are located
as far away from vibration- and noise - sensitive sites as possible. Contract
provisions incorporating the above requirements shall be included as part of
the project's construction documents, which shall be reviewed and
approved by the City.
MM NOI -3 The City's construction contracts for the proposed project shall include
specifications that heavily loaded trucks used during construction shall be
routed away from residential streets to the extent possible. Contract
specifications shall be included in the proposed project construction
documents, which shall be reviewed by the City prior to issuance of a grading
permit.
MMN0I -4 The City's construction contracts for the proposed project shall require that
any construction activity that would result in the generation of noise that
would exceed 80 dBA noise levels when measured at a distance of 50 feet
from the construction site occur only between the hours of 10:00 Am and
3:00 PM, Monday Through Friday provided appropriate permits are issued by
the City of Santa Monica.
b) Less - Than - Significant Impact. As previously described, the proposed project consists of
streetscape improvements, design enhancements, and circulation modifications of existing
public streets, sidewalks, and landscaped areas within the project site. The proposed project
would not introduce any new land uses to the project site that would generate groundborne
vibration or noise. As such, operation of the proposed project would not expose persons to or
generate groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels, and less- than - significant
impact would occur.
This analysis uses the FTA vibration impact thresholds for sensitive buildings, residences, and
institutional land uses. These thresholds are 85 VdB, which is the vibration level that is
considered by the FTA to be acceptable only if there are an infrequent number of events
per day. In terms of groundborne vibration impacts on nearby structures, this analysis will use
the FTA's vibration damage threshold of approximately 100 VdB for fragile buildings.15
Certain construction activities that would occur under the proposed project would have the
potential to generate groundborne vibration. Table NOI -3 (Vibration Source Levels for
Construction Equipment) identifies various vibration velocity levels for the types of
construction equipment that would operate at the project site during construction.
15 Harris Miller Miller & Hanson Inc., Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment, Final Reporl (May 2006).
o City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••• ...... Page 56 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
Approximate VdB
Equipment 50 Feet 100Feet-
Large Bulldozer 81 75
Caisson Drilling 81 75
Loaded Trucks 80 74
Jackhammer 73 67
Small Bulldozer 52 46
SOURCE: Federal Railroad Administration, 1998; and PBS &J, 2008.
3
The vibration levels at the off site sensitive uses are determined with the following equation
from the HMMH Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment, Final Report: Lv1D)=Lv(25 ft) -
20logID /251, where Lv = vibration level of equipment, D = distance from the equipment to
the receiver, Lv)25 ft) = vibration level of equipment at 25 feet.
Construction of the proposed project would involve minimal construction activities
associated with realignment of Main Street, new paving, and the expansion of sidewalks.
Construction activities would have the potential to impact the multi - family residential uses
located at 1539 4fh Street, adjacent to the area of construction for the proposed project,
and located approximately 50 feet from construction activities. As shown in Table NOI -3;
vibration levels at the residential uses to the east would reach approximately 81 VdB.
Such levels of vibration during construction would be temporary and short in duration.
Further, as identified in SMMC Section 4.12.070, vibration associated with construction is
considered exempt from City regulation. In addition, mitigation measures MM NOI -1
through NOI -4 would serve to further reduce impacts associated with construction vibration
by locating vibration - generating equipment away from existing sensitive receptors and
providing advance notification to nearby receptors. Therefore, impacts associated with
vibration resulting from construction of the proposed project would be considered less than
significant.
c) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The proposed project consists of streetscape improvements,
design enhancements, and circulation modifications of existing public streets, sidewalks, and
landscaped areas within the project site. The proposed project would not introduce any new
land uses to the project site or generate any additional population in the City that would
generate noise. The proposed Colorado Esplanade project is not a traffic - generating
development project but rather is expected to result in localized shifts in travel patterns
within the Downtown Santa Monica area. Removal of Colorado eastbound and realignment
of Main Street to 2nd Street would result in potential local traffic diversion to the parallel
east /west arterials such as Broadway and Olympic Drive (and future extension between
Main Street and Ocean Avenue) and adjacent north /south corridors such as 41h Street and
Ocean Avenue. This shift in traffic would not increase vehicle volumes to a level where
roadway noise levels would increase to a noticeable level. As such, the proposed project
would not result in a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project
vicinity and less- than - significant impact would occur.
d) Less - Than- Significant Impact with Mitigation. Construction of the proposed project would
involve minimal construction activities associated with the realignment of Main Street, new
paving, and the expansion of sidewalks. Construction activities associated with the proposed
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 57 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
project could result in a small but temporary increase in ambient noise levels as described in
Section XIV (a). Construction - related noise impacts would be reduced to a less -than-
significant level through compliance with SMMC Section 4.12.110, which limits the hours that
construction activities is permitted to between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM Monday through Friday
and between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM on Saturday; and allows for construction noise to exceed
established noise thresholds so long as it occurs between the hours of 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
In addition, mitigation measures MM NOT -1 through MM NOI -4 would serve to further reduce
impacts associated with temporary increases in construction - related noise. As such,
construction of the proposed would generate a temporary increase in ambient noise levels.
However, compliance with the Noise Ordinance would ensure that noise levels are
temporary and only occur during permitted hours. Therefore, this impact would be less than
significant.
e and f) No Impact. The project site is located approximately two miles northwest of the Santa
Monica Airport. However, the project site is not located in the area covered by an airport
land use plan. No other airports or private airstrips are located in the vicinity of the proposed
project site. The proposed project consists of streetscape improvements, design
enhancements, and circulation modifications of existing public streets, sidewalks, and
landscaped areas within the project site. The proposed project would not introduce any new
land uses to the project site and the project site would continue to exist as a public street. As
such, the proposed project would not expose people residing of working in the project area
to excess noise levels and no impact would occur.
a) No Impact. The proposed project would implement streetscape improvements and
enhancements to create a multi -modal street that would connect the Exposition light -rail
line, the Downtown, Palisades Garden Walk, the Pier, and the Civic Center. The proposed
project does not propose new uses that would generate population growth. The project site
would continue to operate as a public street. Therefore, the proposed project would not
induce population growth. No impacts would occur.
b and c) No Impact. The proposed project site is currently developed as the Colorado Avenue
public ROQ. No housing exists on the project site. Therefore, development of the proposed
project would not displace housing or people. No impacts would occur.
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
.. ;...••.•• Page 58 of 119
Potentially
Significant
'Impact
Less Than
:Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
'Less -Than-
':Significant
°Impact
No
'impact
XV.
POPULATION /HOUSING. Would the project:
(a)
Induce substantial population growth in an area,
❑
❑
❑
either directly (for example, by proposing new
homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example,
through extension of roads or other infrastructure)?
(b)
Displace substantial numbers of existing housing,
❑
❑
❑
necessitating the construction of replacement
housing elsewhere?
(c)
Displace substantial numbers of people,
❑
❑
❑
necessitating the construction of replacement
housing elsewhere?
a) No Impact. The proposed project would implement streetscape improvements and
enhancements to create a multi -modal street that would connect the Exposition light -rail
line, the Downtown, Palisades Garden Walk, the Pier, and the Civic Center. The proposed
project does not propose new uses that would generate population growth. The project site
would continue to operate as a public street. Therefore, the proposed project would not
induce population growth. No impacts would occur.
b and c) No Impact. The proposed project site is currently developed as the Colorado Avenue
public ROQ. No housing exists on the project site. Therefore, development of the proposed
project would not displace housing or people. No impacts would occur.
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
.. ;...••.•• Page 58 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
Less Than
Significant
Potentially with Less -Than-
Significant Mitigation Slgnificant No
Imp act Incorporated Impact Impact
XVI. PUBLIC SERVICES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
(a) Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the
Less -Than-
Significant
`Im act
provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, or in the need for new or
XVII.
physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause
significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response
times, or other performance objectives for any of the public services:
(1) Fire protection? ❑ ❑ ❑
Increase the use of existing neighborhood and
(ii) Police protection? ❑ ❑ ❑
❑
(iii) Schools? ❑ ❑ ❑
❑
(iv) Parks? ❑ ❑ ❑
IN
(v) Other public facilities? ❑ ❑ ❑
a through e) No Impact. The proposed project consists of streetscape improvements and design
enhancements to convert Colorado Avenue into a complete multi -modal street that would
creation a connection between the Expo LRT Station, the Downtown, Palisades Garden
Walk, the Pier, and the Civic Center. No new uses are proposed that would result in an
increased demand for public services. The project site would continue to operate as a
public street. As such, the proposed project would not necessitate the construction of new
or physically altered governmental facilities and no impacts would occur.
a) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The proposed project consists of circulation modifications,
streetscape improvements, and design enhancements to convert Colorado Avenue into a
complete multi -modal street that create connections between the Expo LRT Station, the
Downtown, Palisades Garden Walk, the Pier, and the Civic Center. While the proposed
project would provide for improved connections to a number of existing and future
recreational facilities in the Downtown and Civic Center areas, no new uses are proposed
that would in itself result in the increased use of recreational facilities. Additionally, as part of
the project, the.existing landscaped area known as the Main Street Triangle located at the
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•- Page 59 of 119
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less -Than-
Significant
`Im act
No
Impact
XVII.
RECREATION. Would the project:
(a)
Increase the use of existing neighborhood and
❑
❑
®
❑
regional parks or other recreational facilities such
that substantial physical deterioration of the facility
would occur or be accelerated?
(b)
Include recreational facilities or require the
❑
❑
®
❑
construction or expansion of recreational facilities
that might have an adverse physical effect on the
environment?
a) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The proposed project consists of circulation modifications,
streetscape improvements, and design enhancements to convert Colorado Avenue into a
complete multi -modal street that create connections between the Expo LRT Station, the
Downtown, Palisades Garden Walk, the Pier, and the Civic Center. While the proposed
project would provide for improved connections to a number of existing and future
recreational facilities in the Downtown and Civic Center areas, no new uses are proposed
that would in itself result in the increased use of recreational facilities. Additionally, as part of
the project, the.existing landscaped area known as the Main Street Triangle located at the
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•- Page 59 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
intersection of Main Street and Colorado Avenue would be reconfigured and improved with
pedestrian paths, street furniture and amenities, lighting treatments, arkd landscaping to
create additional open space areas. As such, impacts would be less than significant.
b) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The proposed project consists of streetscape improvements
and design enhancements to convert Colorado Avenue into a complete multi -modal street
that would connect the Expo LRT Station, the Downtown, Palisades Garden Walk, the Pier,
and the Civic Center. As part of the project, the existing landscaped area known as the
Main Street Triangle located at the intersection of Main Street and Colorado Avenue would
be reconfigured and improved with pedestrian paths, street furniture and amenities, lighting
treatments, and landscaping. Construction effects associated with the reconfiguration and
improvement of the Main Street Triangle have been analyzed throughout this IS.MND, and
determined to be less than significant or less than significant with mitigation. Please refer to
Section II (Air Quality), Section VI (Greenhouse Gas Emissions), Section X (Hydrology /Water
Quality), Section XIV (Noise), and Section XIX (Transportation /Traffic) for a detailed analysis of
construction related effects associated with the proposed project. As construction of the
reconfigured and improved Main Street Triangle open space area would result in a less -than-
significant impacts, this impact is considered less than significant and no further discussion is
required.
a) Less - Than - Significant Impact. Shadow impacts occur when a new building /structure of
sufficient height casts new shadows onto nearby sensitive receptors. The closest noise -
sensitive receptors are the multi - family residential uses located at 1539 41h Street, adjacent to
the project area. The consequences of shadows on land uses may be positive, including
cooling effects during warm weather, or negative, such as the loss of natural light necessary
for solar energy purposes or the loss of warming influences during cool weather. The
proposed project would implement streetscape improvements and enhancements to
create a multi -modal street. Above -grade structures /features would include light poles,
trees, and other pedestrian amenities (such as bus shelters). Minor shadows would be
produced from these features. However, shadows would generally be cast in a clockwise
direction (from northwest to the east) and would not be sufficient to create significant
shadows onto nearby sensitive uses. In addition, shadows cast by the proposed trees on the
Esplanade are considered beneficial in providing relief from the sun. Therefore, a less -than-
significant impact would occur and no mitigation is required.
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••�•••• Page 60 of 119
'.less Than
Significant
Potentially
with
'Less -Than-
Significant
Mitigation
':Significant
No
Impact
Incorporated
Impact
'impact
XVIII. SHADOWS. Would the project:
(a) Produce extensive shadows affecting adjacent
❑
❑
®
❑
uses or property?
a) Less - Than - Significant Impact. Shadow impacts occur when a new building /structure of
sufficient height casts new shadows onto nearby sensitive receptors. The closest noise -
sensitive receptors are the multi - family residential uses located at 1539 41h Street, adjacent to
the project area. The consequences of shadows on land uses may be positive, including
cooling effects during warm weather, or negative, such as the loss of natural light necessary
for solar energy purposes or the loss of warming influences during cool weather. The
proposed project would implement streetscape improvements and enhancements to
create a multi -modal street. Above -grade structures /features would include light poles,
trees, and other pedestrian amenities (such as bus shelters). Minor shadows would be
produced from these features. However, shadows would generally be cast in a clockwise
direction (from northwest to the east) and would not be sufficient to create significant
shadows onto nearby sensitive uses. In addition, shadows cast by the proposed trees on the
Esplanade are considered beneficial in providing relief from the sun. Therefore, a less -than-
significant impact would occur and no mitigation is required.
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••�•••• Page 60 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
-
Tess Than
Significant
Potentially with less -Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Impact Incorporated Impact Im act
XIX. TRANSPORTATION /TRAFFIC. Would the project:
(a) Conflict with an applicable plan, ordinance, or
❑ M 9 ❑
policy establishing measures of effectiveness for the
performance of the circulation system, taking into
account all modes of transportation including mass
transit and nonmotorized travel and relevant
components of the circulation system, including,
but not limited to, intersections, streets, highways
and freeways, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and
mass transit?
(b) Conflict with an applicable congestion ❑ ❑ ❑
management program, including, but not limited
to, level of service standards and travel demand
measures, or other standards established by the
county congestion management agency for
designated roads or highways?
(c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including ❑ ❑ ❑
either an increase in traffic levels or a change in
location that results in substantial safety (sks?
(d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design ❑ ❑ ❑
feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous
intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm
equipment)?
(e) Result in inadequate emergency access? ❑ ❑ ❑
(f) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs ❑ ❑ ❑
regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian
facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance or
safety of such facilities?
a) Less- Than - Significant Impact. The proposed project would not introduce any new land uses
to the project site or generate any additional traffic in the City that would generate noise.
The proposed Colorado Esplanade project is not a traffic - generating development project
but rather is expected to result in localized shifts in travel patterns within the Downtown Santa
Monica area. A traffic impact analysis was prepared by Fehr & Peers, appended to this
document as Appendix C, to determine the project's impacts on traffic patterns. The study
analyzed existing conditions and traffic forecasts in accordance with the established
methodology for the City of Santa Monica. Full descriptions of the existing street system and
existing traffic volumes and levels of service are included in that report. The report also
describes pedestrian and bicycle facilities in the vicinity of the project site. Regional access
to the project corridor is provided by the Santa Monica Freeway (1 -10), Palisades Beach
Road (also known as Pacific Coast Highway and SR -1), and Lincoln Boulevard (SR -1). 1 -10
provides east /west access across the City of Santa Monica and to the City of Los Angeles to
the east. The nearest freeway access to the project site from the 1 -10 is available via
interchanges at Lincoln Boulevard and 4th Street /51h Street. 1 -10 Freeway connects to the
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•- •••••• Page 61 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
1 -405 Freeway, which provides north /south access through the adjacent City of Los Angeles
and connects the Westside with the San Fernando Valley to the north and the South Bay
area to the south. Access to the project site from the 1 -405 is available via the 1 -10 and at
Wilshire Boulevard approximately 3 miles east of the study area.
The City of Santa Monica impact criteria used to evaluate potential traffic impacts e ^street
SegrneEltsJntersections are based on existing AverGge Pelly T" ps r^ T' intersection peak hour
volumes and the projected level of volume increase that can be attributed to the project.
The Santa Monica significance criteria for collector, fe9deF ^^G' IGGGI g4eelg and arterial
intersections are provided in Table TRAF -1.
If LOS = A, B, or C
Significant impact if:
• And is a collector street
Average vehicle delay increase is > 15 seconds or LOS
intersection
becomes D, E, or F
• And is an arterial
Average vehicle delay increase is > 15 seconds or LOS
intersection
becomes E or F
IF LOS = D
Significant impact if:
• And is a collector street
Any net increase in average seconds of delay per vehicle
intersection
• And is an arterial
• Average vehicle delay increase is > 15 seconds or LOS
intersection
becomes E or F
IF LOS = E - Significant impact if:
• And is a collector or Any net increase in average seconds of delay per vehicle
arterial intersection
IF LOS = F Significant impact if:
• And is a collector or
arterial intersection HCM V/C ratio net increase is > 0.005
SOURCE: Fehr and Peers, Traffic Study for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project (May 2012).
Functional street classifications in this table are from the City's previous Circulation Element. The 2010 Land Use and
Circulation Element ILUCE) has adopted a different typology for streets within the City but the significance criteria
have not yet been revised.
Existing conditions at the study area intersections were established and are illustrated in
Table TRAF -2.
Class I !flour
AM 1 0.506 1 10 .I A
Ocean Avenue & Santa Monica Boulevard A I PM 1 0.523 14 B
WKND 10.572 13 B
m City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••••• Page 62 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
No.
Intersection
:Class
Hour
V /C.
Delay^:}
LOS
2
Ocean Avenue & Broadway
A
AM
0.545
10
A
PM
0.617
11
B
WKND
0.528
15
B
3
Ocean Avenue & Colorado Avenue
A
AM
0.573
12
B
PM
0.783
22
C
WKND
0.988
68
E
4
Ocean Avenue & Moomat Ahiko Way (PCH
ramps)
A
AM
0.597
19
B
PM
0.818
21
C
WKND
0.730
21
C
5
Ocean Avenue & Olympic Drive
A
AM
n/a
PM
WKND
6
Ocean Avenue & Pico Boulevard
A
AM
0.807
20
B
PM
0.880
28
C
WKND
0.692
22
C
7
2nd Street & Santa Monica Boulevard
A
AM
0.398
11
B
PM
0.689
14
B
WKND
0.549
12
B
8
2 ^d Street & Broadway
C
AM
0.285
10
A
PM
0.496
11
B
WKND
0.522
12
B
9/10
Main /2nd & Colorado=
A
AM
0.477
35
C
PM
0.493
37
D
WKND
0.495
36
D
11
Main Street & Olympic Drive (Unsignalized)
C
AM
0.740
—d
F
PM
0.303
22
C
WKND
0.467
22
C
12
Main Street & Pico Boulevard
A
AM
0.685
23
C
PM
0.748
35
C
WKND
0.686
23
C
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 63 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
NO. ;:
- ...mrersecnon -.
Uass
- -.Hour I
V /l: I
Velay°,f
LvJ
13
4th Street & Santa Monica Boulevard
A
AM
0.723
12
B
PM
0.776
16
B
WKND
0.463
12
B
14
41h Street & Broadway
A
AM
0.709
19
B
PM
0.858
27
C
WKND
0.729
38
D
15
41h Street & Colorado Avenue
A
AM
0.731
27
C
PM
0.789
30
C
WKND
0.811
30
C
16
4th Street & 1 -10 Westbound Off -Ramp
A
AM
0.623
17
B
PM
0.538
17
B
WKND
0.576
18
B
17
41h Street & 1 -10 Eastbound On- Ramp /Olympic
Drive
A
AM
1.041
27
C
PM
0.668
7
A
WKND
0.841
10
A
18
4th Street & Pico Boulevard
A
AM
0.862
30
C
PM
0.897
64
E
WKND
0.736
25
C
19
51h Street & Santa Monica Boulevard
A
AM
0.375
11
B
PM
0.533
12
B
WKND
0.437
11
B
20
5th Street & Broadway
A
AM
0.487
11
B
PM
0.689
14
B
WKND
0.589
12
B
21
5th Street & Colorado Avenue
A
AM
0.484
11
B
PM
0.597
12
B
WKND
0.606
13
B
22
Lincoln Boulevard & Colorado Avenue
A
AM
0.986
32
C
PM
0.970
39
D
WKND
1.089
32
C
Q City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••.. ...... Page 64 of 179
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
n/a = Intersection does not exist in the Existing Year
a. The City's new Year 2011 'Weekend" traffic count data were used for the Saturday analysis at the following locations:
Ocean & Broadway, Ocean & Colorado, 2nd & Broadway, 2nd & Colorado, Main & Colorado, 411, & Colorado, 41h &
Broadway, 41h & 1 -10 westbound off -ramp, 41h & Colorado eastbound on -ramp. The weekday AM and PM peak hours
traffic analysis for the above- mentioned intersections were developed based on year 2007 count data. For the
remaining study intersections, year 2007 traffic count data were applied to all analyzed periods (including weekday
AM, PM and Saturday midday).
b. Average stopped delay per vehicle, in seconds.
c. The intersections of Colorado Avenue and 2 ^d Street and Colorado Avenue and Main Street were analyzed as one
intersection as these two intersections are currently controlled by the some traffic signal controller and are
synchronized.
d. Indicates oversaturated conditions. Delay cannot be calculated.
Using the criteria established by the City of Santa Monica for significant traffic impacts, as
described above, a project would not be considered to have a significant impact at an
intersection if, for example, it is on an arterial street operating at LOS D with the addition of
project traffic and the incremental change in the average vehicle delay is less than 15
seconds. If the intersection is operating at LOS E after the addition of project traffic and the
average vehicle delay increases by any amount, however, this would be considered a
significant project impact. All impacts on intersections projected to operate at LOS F are
based on the V/C ratio, with project - related increases of 0.005 or greater considered
significant.
Approval Year (Year 2012) plus Proiect
The Approval Year (Year 2012) plus Project peak hour traffic volumes were analyzed to
determine potential future operating conditions at the study intersections and to identify
specific traffic impacts resulting from project- contributed traffic. The results of this analysis are
summarized in Table TRAF -3 for comparison with the Approval Year (Year 2012) No project
intersection conditions.
Using the City of Santa Monica's traffic impact significance criteria, the results indicate that
the proposed project would not cause a significant impact at any of the 22 study
intersections during any of the analyzed peak hours. Since no significant traffic impacts were
found under Approval Year (Year 2012) plus Project conditions, no mitigation measures were
identified.
Removal of Colorado eastbound and realignment of Main Street to 2nd Street would result in
potential local traffic diversion to the parallel east /west arterials such as Broadway and
Olympic Drive and adjacent north /south corridors such as 41h Street and Ocean Avenue. The
traffic analysis indicates that these traffic shifts can be fully accommodated by the given
traffic capacity in these parallel corridors, without creating significant operational issues or
travel delays. Converting Colorado Avenue between Ocean Avenue and 4th Street from
two -way to one -way street and realignment of Main Street at 2 ^d Street & Colorado would
result in fewer conflicting vehicular traffic movements at the three intersections on Colorado
Avenue between Ocean Avenue and 4th Street. It will also provide opportunity to introduce
a shared pedestrian scramble phase at Ocean Avenue & Colorado Avenue, which will allow
pedestrians to access the Pier from the Esplanade diagonally.
e City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
- June 20, 2012
•••••••••• Page 65 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
Future Year (Year 2020) plus Protect
The Future (Year 2020) plus Project peak hour traffic volumes were analyzed to determine
potential future operating conditions at the study intersections and to identify specific traffic
impacts resulting from the addition of project- contributed traffic. The results of this analysis
are summarized in Table TRAF -4.
Using the City of Santa Monica's traffic impact significance criteria, the results indicate that
the proposed project would not cause a significant impact at any of the 22 study
intersections during any of the analyzed peak hours. Since no significant traffic impacts were
found under Future Year (Year 2020) plus Project conditions, no mitigation measures were
identified.
With the construction of the Expo LRT and reduction of traffic capacity on Colorado Avenue
and removal of Colorado eastbound between 4th Street and 51h Street under future 2020
conditions, traffic will be diverted from Colorado Avenue to the parallel corridors. With the
proposed Esplanade project, conversion of Colorado Avenue to one -way westbound only
between Ocean Avenue and 41h Street plus realignment of Main Street to 2nd Street would
result in potentially additional traffic redistribution in Downtown Santa Monica. The traffic
analysis indicates that these traffic shifts can be fully accommodated by the given traffic
capacity in these parallel corridors, without creating significant operational issues or travel
delays. Furthermore, converting Colorado Avenue between Ocean Avenue and 44h Street
from two -way to one -way street and realignment of Main Street at 2nd Street & Colorado
would result in fewer conflicting vehicular traffic movements at the three intersections on
Colorado Avenue between Ocean Avenue and 41h Street. It will also provide opportunity to
introduce a shared pedestrian scramble phase at Ocean Avenue & Colorado Avenue,
which will allow pedestrians to access the Pier from the Esplanade diagonally.
Operational traffic impacts of the proposed project would be less than significant and no
mitigation is required.
With respect to construction traffic, construction activities associated with the proposed
project would result in additional construction traffic in the ,project vicinity. Construction
activities would result in full or partial closure of Colorado Avenue. Traffic detours in the
public right -of -way could occur as a result of project construction. In addition, traffic
associated with construction activities on the surrounding arterials would increase and could
potentially affect existing traffic flow. However, implementation of mitigation measure
MM TRAF -1, would reduce this impact to a less- than - significant level by requiring the
preparation of a traffic control plan, which would include provisional measures to reduce
construction traffic, coordinate road closures, and limit truck queuing.
MM TRAF -1 The City shall prepare, implement and maintain a Construction Impact
Mitigation Plan prior to issuance of a building permit to adequately manage
traffic during construction and shall be designed to:
• Prevent traffic impacts on the surrounding roadway network
• Minimize parking impacts both to public parking and access to private
parking to the greatest extent practicable
• Ensure safety for both those constructing the project and the surrounding
community
• Prevent substantial truck traffic through residential neighborhoods
0� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 66 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
®® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 67 of 119
Peak
Delay;
Significant
No.
Intersection
Gass
Hour
V/C
Delay";
LOS
V/C
Delay`
LOS
Increase?
Impact?
AM
0.531
10
A
0.272
13
B
3
No
1
Ocean Avenue &
Santa Monica Boulevard
A
PM
0.576
15
B
0.512
15
B
0
No
WKND
0.577
13
B
0.561
13
B
0
No
AM
0.559
11
B
0.375
15
B
4
No
2
Ocean Avenue &
Broadway
A
PM
0.627
11
B
0.503
13
B
2
No
WKND
0.533
15
B
0.599
16
B
1
No
AM
1.020
35
C
0.465
35
C
0
No
3
Ocean Avenue &
Colorado Avenue
A
PM
1.233
69
E
0.912
68
E
0
No
WKND
0.966
69
E
0.953
67
E
0
No
AM
0.610
19
B
0.529
19
B
0
No
4
Ocean Avenue &
Moomat Ahiko Way (PCH ramps)
A
PM
0.842
22
C
0.691
20
B
0
No
WKND
0.736
21
C
0.745
22
C
1
No
AM
5
Ocean Avenue &
Olympic Drive
A
n/a
n/a
n/a
PM
WKND
AM
0.818
20
B
0.740
20
B
0
No
6
Ocean Avenue &
Pico Boulevard
A
PM
0.893
29
C
0.918
30
C
1
No
WKND
0.698
22
C
0.636
21
C
0
No
AM
0.405
11
B
0.292
10
A
0
No
7
2nd Street &
Santa Monica Boulevard
A
PM
0.719
15
B
0.572
12
B
0
No
WKND
0.554
12
B
0.635
13
B
1
No
®® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 67 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
No.
Intersection
Class
Peak
Hour
Approval YearNO Project
; Approval Year +project -
VIC or
Delay';
Increase?
Significant
Impact? c.
V/C
Delay*
LOS
;. V/C
Delay*
LOS
8
2�d Street &
Broadway
C
AM
0.318
11
B
0.365
10
A
0
No
PM
0.534
11
B
0.516
12
B
1
No
WKND
0.527
12
B
0.644
13
B
1
No
9/10
Main /2nd &
Colorado
A
AM
0.481
35
C
0.372
21
C
0
No
PM
0.497
37
D
0.607
29
C
0
No
WKND
0.499
36
D
0.526
23
C
0
No
11
Main Street &
Olympic Drive (Unsignalized)
C
AM
0.746
*
F
0.740
F
-0.006
No
PM
0.306
22
C
0.308
19
B
0
No
WKND
0.470
22
C
0.577
30
C
8
No
12
Main Street &
Pico Boulevard
A
AM
0.695
24
C
0.924
23
C
0
No
PM
0.760
36
D
0.836
27
C
0
No
WKND
0.691
23
C
0.721
24
C
1
No
13
4th Street &
Santa Monica Boulevard
A
AM
0.738
12
B
0.567
9
A
0
No
PM
0.847
17
B
0.661
13
B
0
No
WKND
0.466
12
B
0.475
12
B
0
No
14
4th Street &
Broadway
A
AM
0.740
20
B
0.764
25
C
5
No
PM
0.895
30
C
1.002
41
D
11
No
WKND
0.734
38
D
0.815
29
C
0
No
15
4th Street &
Colorado Avenue
A
AM
0.776
28
C
0.439
27
C
0
No
PM
0.846
32
C
0.474
26
C
0
No
WKND
0.817
30
C
0.730
43
D
13
No
o® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
.._..� Page 68 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
16
4th Street &
1 -10 Westbound Off -Ramp
A
AM
0.670
18
B
1 0.580
14
B
0
No
PM
0.563
17
B
0.693
14
B
0
No
WKND
0.581
18
B
0.565
18
B
0
No
17
4t" Street &
1 -10 Eastbound On- Ramp /Olympic
Boulevard
A
AM
1.173
45
D
0.871
11
B
0
No
PM
0.689
7
A
0.787
6
A
0
No
WKND
0.850
11
B
0.882
14
B
3
No
8
4th Street &
Pico Boulevard
A
AM
0.878
30
C
0.724
22
C
0
No
PM
0.914
70
E
1.053
64
E
0
No
WKND
0.741
25
C
0.757
26
C
1
No
19
5th Street &
Santa Monica Boulevard
A
AM
0.390
11
B
0.169
9
A
0
No
PM
0.561
12
B
0.470
12
B
0
No
WKND
0.441
11
B
0.464
11
B
0
No
20
5th Street &
Broadway
A
AM
0.499
11
B
0.358
11
B
0
No
PM
0.723
15
B
0.725
14
B
0
No
WKND
0.594
12
B
0.662
13
B
1
No
21
5th Street &
Colorado Avenue
A
AM
0.518
12
B
0.295
11
B
0
No
PM
0.644
13
B
0.425
9
A
0
No
WKND
0.610
13
B
0.592
11
B
0
No
22
Lincoln Boulevard &
Colorado Avenue
A
AM
1.006
36
D
0.668
17
B
0
No
PM
1.011
45
D
0.822
19
B
0
No
WKND
1 1.098
33
C
1.002
25
C
0
No
a® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
--� June 20, 2012
Page 69 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
The! ntersectons of Colorado Avenue and 2r6 Street and Colorado Avenue and Main Street were analyzed as one intersection as these two intersections are currently
controlled by the some traffic signal controller and are synchronized.
n/a Intersection does not exist in the Approval Year
* Average stopped delay per vehicle, in seconds.
** Indicates oversaturated conditions. Delay cannot be calculated.
No.
Intersection
'Class
Peak
Hour
Future No Project
Future +project
V/C or
Delay
Increase?
Significant
Impact?
V/C
Delay*
Los
V/C
Delay*
LOS
1
Ocean Avenue & Santa Monica
Boulevard
A
AM
0.479
10
A
0.590
12
B
2
No
PM
0.508
13
B
0.637
16
B
3
No
WKND
0.608
13
B
0.607
13
B
0
No
2
Ocean Avenue & Broadway
A
AM
0.445
6
A
0.562
11
B
5
No
PM
0.472
10
A
0.632
12
B
2
No
WKND
0.563
14
B
0.602
15
B
1
No
3
Ocean Avenue & Colorado Avenue
A
AM
0.774
45
D
0.841
42
D
0
No
PM
0.874
46
D
0.910
46
D
0
No
WKND
1.033
72
E
0.999
72
E
0
No
4
Ocean Avenue & Moomat Ahiko
Way (PCH ramps)
A
AM
0.677
19
B
0.732
20
B
1
No
PM
0.806
21
C
0.859
23
C
2
No
WKND
0.771
21
C
0.785
22
C
1
No
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
_,..� Page 70 of 119
No. Intersection
5 I Ocean Avenue & Olympic Drive
6 1 Ocean Avenue & Pico Boulevard
A
0
7 1 2nd Street & Santa Monica Boulevard I A
8 1 2nd Street & Broadway
9/10 1 Main /2nd & Colorado
1 Main Street & Olympic Boulevard
(Signalized)
12 1 Main Street & Pico Boulevard
Le
Fj
C
0
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
Future No Pr
Peak
.Hour
Vic
Dela,
AM
1.089
18
PM
0.768
9
WKND
0.530
2
AM
0.788
20
PM
0.801
50
WKND
0.722
22
AM
0.377
11
PM
0.749
15
WKND
0.668
13
AM
0.280
10
PM
0.394
11
WKND
0.569
12
AM
0.753
39
PM
0.571
35
WKND
0.645
38
AM
0.817
16
PM
0.414
10
WKND
0.774
17
AM
0.656
23
PM
0.765
36
WKND
0.614
22
B
1.098
19
B
1
No
A
0.767
9
A
0
No
A
0.530
2
A
a
No
B
0.789
19
B
0
No
D
0.796
50
D
0
No
C
0.686
21
C
0
No
B
0.514
12
B
1
No
B
0.963
29
C
14
No
B
0.756
15
B
2
No
A
0.401
11
B
1
No
B
0.645
13
B
2
No
B
0.629
13
B
1
No
D
0.514
22
C
0
No
C
0.663
26
C
0
No
D
0.614
27
C
0
No
B
0.795
16
B
0
No
A
0.415
10
A
0
No
B
0.596
12
B
0
No
C
0.795
26
C
3
No
D
0.850
30
C
0
No
C .
0.674
22
C
0
No
e® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
.....� Page 71 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
No.
Intersection
'Class
Peak
Hour
Future No Project
Future +project
V /C; or
Delay,
Increase?
Sign cant
Impact? '-
V/C
Delay*
LOS
` V/C
Delay*
LOS
13
4th Street & Santa Monica Boulevard
A
AM
0.769
13
B
0.851
16
B
3
No
PM
0.715
13
B
0.786
17
B
4
No
WKND
0.576
13
B
0.576
13
B
0
No
14
4th Street & Broadway
A
AM
0.709
19
B
0.827
24
C
5
No
PM
11.029
j 46
D
1.065
55
D
9
No
WKND
0.971
55
D
0.998
36
D
0
No
15
4th Street & Colorado Avenue
A
AM
1.563
F
0.598
35
C
-0.965
No
PM
1.516
*
F
0.668
52
D
-0.848
No
WKND
1.440
**
F
0.810
80
E
-0.630
No
16
4th Street & 1 -10 westbound off -ramp
A
AM
0.804
22
C
0.828
23
C
1
No
PM
0.776
22
C
0.850
26
C
4
No
WKND
0.753
20
B
0.728
20
B
0
No
17
4th Street & 1 -10 eastbound on-
ramp /Olympic Drive
A
AM
1.028
22
C
1.032
23
C
1
No
PM
1.135
34
C
1.017
21
C
0
No
WKND
1.009
24
C
0.922
17
B
0
No
18
4th Street & Pico Boulevard
A
AM
0UWKND 922
36
D
0.970
41
D
5
No
70
79
E
0.978
79
E
0
No
85
27
C
0.860
30
C
3
No
19
5th Street & Santa Monica Boulevard
A
49
11
B
0.441
11
B
0
No
48
11
B
0.568
13
B
2
No
50
2
B
0.490
12
B
0
No
® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
._.,_,.. Page 72 of 119
20 1 5th Street & Broadway
21 1 5th Street & Colorado Avenue
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
22 Lincoln Boulevard & Colorado A PM 0.871 27 C 0.932 33 C 6 No
Avenue
WKND 1.160 78 E 1.149 76 E 0 No
* Average stopped delay per vehicle, in seconds.
** Indicates oversaturated conditions. Delay cannot be calculated.
The intersections of Colorado Avenue and 2nd Street and Colorado Avenue and Main Street were analyzed as one intersection as these two intersections are currently
controlled by the some traffic signal controller and are synchronized.
�® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
_,.v,.. Page 73 of 119
AM
0.536
12
B
1 0.687
14
B
2
No
A
PM
0.730
15
B
0.940
28
C
13
No
WKND
0.820
16
B
0.741
14
B
0
No
AM
0.667
19
B
0.869
31
C
12
No
A
PM
0.735
31
C
0.941
43
D
12
No
WKND
0.941
39
D
0.895
40
D
1
No
AM
0.920
29
C
0.987
37
D
8
No
22 Lincoln Boulevard & Colorado A PM 0.871 27 C 0.932 33 C 6 No
Avenue
WKND 1.160 78 E 1.149 76 E 0 No
* Average stopped delay per vehicle, in seconds.
** Indicates oversaturated conditions. Delay cannot be calculated.
The intersections of Colorado Avenue and 2nd Street and Colorado Avenue and Main Street were analyzed as one intersection as these two intersections are currently
controlled by the some traffic signal controller and are synchronized.
�® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
_,.v,.. Page 73 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
The Construction Impact Mitigation Plan shall be subject to review and
approval by the following City departments: Public Works Department, Fire,
Planning and Community Development and Police to ensure that the Plan has
been designed in accordance with this mitigation measure. This review shall
occur prior to issuance of grading or building permits. It shall, at a minimum,
include the following:
Ongoing Requirements throughout the Duration of Construction
• A detailed traffic control plan for work zones shall be maintained. At a
minimum, this shall include parking and travel lane configurations; warning,
regulatory, guide, and directional signage; and area sidewalks, bicycle lanes,
and parking lanes. The plan shall include specific information regarding the
project's construction activities that may disrupt normal pedestrian and traffic
flow and the measures to address these disruptions. Such plans shall be
reviewed and approved by the Transportation Management Division prior to
commencement of construction and implemented in accordance with this
approval.
• Work within the public right -of -way shall be performed between 9:00 Ann and
4:00 PM. This work includes dirt and demolition material hauling and
construction material delivery. Work within the public right -of -way outside of
these hours shall only be allowed after the issuance of an after -hours
construction permit.
• Streets and equipment shall be cleaned in accordance with established PW
requirements.
• Trucks shall only travel on a City- approved construction route. Truck
queuing /staging shall not be allowed on Santa Monica streets. Limited
queuing may occur on the construction site itself.
• Materials and equipment shall be minimally visible to the public; the preferred
location for materials is to be on site, with a minimum amount of materials
within a work area in the public right -of -way, subject to a current Use of Public
Property Permit.
• Any requests for work before or after normal construction hours within the
public right -of -way shall be subject to review and approval through the After
Hours Permit process administered by the Building and Safety Division.
• Provision of off - street parking for construction workers, which may include the
use of a remote location with shuttle transport to the site, if determined
necessary by the City of Santa Monica.
Proiect Coordination Elements That Shall Be Implemented Prior to
Commencement of Construction
• The City shall advise the traveling public of impending construction activities
(e.g., information signs, portable message signs, media listing /notification, and
implementation of an approved traffic control plan).
• The City shall obtain a Use of Public Property Permit, Excavation Permit, Sewer
Permit, or Oversize Load Permit, as well as any Caltrans permits required, for
any construction work requiring encroachment into public rights -of -way,
detours, or any other work within the public right -of -way.
• The City shall provide timely notification of construction schedules to all
affected agencies (e.g., Big Blue Bus, Police Department, Fire Department,
Public Works Department, and Planning and Community Development
9 City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••.• - Page 74 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
Department) and to all owners and residential and commercial tenants of
property within a radius of 500 feet.
• The City shall coordinate construction work with affected agencies in
advance of start of work. Approvals may take up to two weeks per each
submittal.
• The City shall obtain Transportation Management Division approval of any haul
routes for earth, concrete, or construction materials and equipment hauling.
b) No Impact. The project is not expected to generate any new trips on the regional roadway
system but is intended to convert Colorado Avenue into a multi -modal street and better
accommodate existing pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicle activity in the immediate vicinity of the
project. The CMP arterial monitoring intersections nearest to the project site are the intersections
of Santa Monica Boulevard & Lincoln Boulevard and Lincoln Boulevard & Pico Boulevard. Based
on the review of the City's TDFM network outputs and anticipated changes in traffic patterns
caused by the proposed Colorado Esplanade project, the project is not expected to add more
than 50 vehicles per hour (vph) to either of these locations during either weekday peak hour and
weekend midday peak hour under Approval Year (Year 2012). Therefore, a CMP arterial
intersection analysis is not required.
Similar to the discussions provided in the previous section of "Approval Year (2012) CMP Traffic
Impact Analysis, the proposed project is also not expected to generate any new trips on the
regional roadway system under future year 2020 conditions. The project is only expected to result
in localized traffic redistribution in Downtown Santa Monica for motorists approaching the 1 -10
Freeway ramps on 41h Street. The CMP arterial monitoring intersections nearest to the project site
are the intersections of Santa Monica Boulevard and Lincoln Boulevard and Lincoln Boulevard
and Pico Boulevard, and the mainline freeway monitoring location nearest to the project site is
1 -10 at Lincoln Boulevard.
The project would not generate any new trips on the regional freeway system, but will result in
some changes in motorist approaching the 1 -10 Freeway ramps. For example, the motorists on 2nd
Street or Ocean Avenue currently travel on Colorado Avenue eastbound and turn to 41h Street
southbound to access the Santa Monica Freeway eastbound on -ramp south of 4th Street. These
vehicles could potentially alter their travel patterns to use 2 ^d Street and the realigned Main
Street to access the 1 -10 Freeway on -ramp at the intersection of 41h Street and Olympic Drive. Or,
these motorists could potentially alter their routes to use parallel corridors such as Broadway or
Olympic Drive extension to access the 1 -10 Freeway eastbound on -ramp on 4th Street. The
mainline freeway monitoring location nearest to the project site is 1 -10 at Lincoln Boulevard.
Based on the comparison of volumes with and without the Project, the effect of the project's
changes in traffic at the 1 -10 Freeway ramps at Lincoln Boulevard are minimal and would not
exceed the minimum criterion of 150 vph under Approval Year (Year 2012) and Future Year (Year
2020) scenarios. Therefore, no further CMP freeway analysis is required and there would be no
impact.
c) No Impact. The project site is not located within an airport land use plan or airport limited area.
The closest airport to the project site is the Santa Monica Airport, a general aviation airport
located between Walgrove Avenue, Ocean Park Avenue, Airport Avenue, and Centinela
Avenue in the southeastern portion of the City (two miles to the southeast of the project site). The
project site is not within established flight paths for the Santa Monica Airport. In any event, the
proposed project would not construct any structures taller than light standards that could
interfere with air traffic. Construction and operation of the proposed project would not affect air
traffic patterns and there would be no impact.
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 75 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
d) No Impact. There are no private airstrips in the project vicinity. As noted, the closest airport to the
project site is the public Santa Monica Airport, two miles to the southeast. Implementation of the
proposed project would not result in a safety risk from private aircraft operations, and there
would be no impact.
e) No Impact. The proposed project is not a traffic - generating development project but, rather, is
expected to result in localized shifts in travel patterns within the Downtown Santa Monica area.
The project entails reimaging and reconstructing Colorado Avenue into a multi -modal street and
gathering focal point that would complement and connect surrounding uses such as the
Downtown, Palisades Garden Walk, the Pier, the LRT station, the Santa Monica Place /3rd Street
Promenade, and the Civic Center.
As part of the project, Colorado Avenue would be reconfigured to provide a pedestrian
promenade and a two -way cycle track on the south side and two westbound -only travel lanes
between 4th Street and Ocean Avenue. Included in this design concept is the realignment of
Main Street to connect with Colorado Avenue opposite 2nd Street to allow a direct vehicular and
bicycle connection between Downtown retail uses on 2,d Street and the Civic Center uses on
Main Street. It would also facilitate north /south vehicular flow between downtown Santa Monica
and the Santa Monica Civic Center, the 1 -10 Freeway, and Main Street neighborhoods to the
south. The project also proposes implementation of a pedestrian scramble phase at the
intersection of Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue, to accommodate the existing and
anticipated high pedestrian volumes at the Pier entrance. In addition to the implementation of
bicycle facilities and widened pedestrian walkways and the realignment of portions of Main
Street, the project would also implement other streetscape enhancements and circulation
modifications in order to improve the accessibility and mobility of visitors and residents.
With the introduction of the Expo LRT service to Santa Monica, significant pedestrian volumes are
anticipated traveling between the Expo LRT terminus station at 41h Street & Colorado Avenue,
Downtown Santa Monica retail and employment uses, and the Pier Bridge at Ocean Avenue &
Colorado Avenue. At 41h Street and Colorado Avenue intersection, the pedestrian volumes
crossing this intersection are generally moderate under existing and are expected to be similar
under Approval Year (2012) No Project conditions. However, under year 2020 No Project
conditions with the Expo Station, the intersection of 4 +h and Colorado Avenue could be operating
at congested conditions because motorists would find it difficult to find a gap in the anticipated
heavy pedestrian flow to and from the Expo Station and then make a right turn during the
weekday commute peak periods. At Ocean Avenue & Colorado Avenue, even without the Expo
LRT, this intersection currently operates at congested conditions, with heavy pedestrian flow to
and from the Santa Monica Pier. Under future year (2020) No Project conditions, similar
pedestrian blockage effect is expected to occur at Ocean Avenue & Colorado Avenue due to
the anticipated additional pedestrian volumes between the Expo Station and the Pier.
As noted, with the construction of the Expo LRT and reduction of traffic capacity on Colorado
Avenue and removal of Colorado eastbound between 4th Street and 5th Street under future 2020
conditions, traffic will be diverted from Colorado Avenue to the parallel corridors. With the
proposed Esplanade project, conversion of Colorado Avenue to one -way westbound only
between Ocean Avenue and 4th Street plus realignment of Main Street to 2 ^d Street would result
in potentially additional traffic redistribution in Downtown Santa Monica. The traffic analysis
indicates that these traffic shifts can be fully accommodated by the given traffic capacity in
these parallel corridors, without creating significant operational issues or travel delays.
Furthermore, converting Colorado Avenue between Ocean Avenue and 4th Street from two -way
to one -way street and realignment of Main Street at 2nd Street & Colorado would result in fewer
conflicting vehicular traffic movements at the three intersections on Colorado Avenue between
Ocean Avenue and 4th Street. It will also provide opportunity to introduce a shared pedestrian
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••• Page 76 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
scramble phase at Ocean Avenue & Colorado Avenue, which will allow pedestrians to access
the Pier from the Esplanade diagonally. These improvements would enhance motorist, cyclist,
and pedestrian safety in the Downtown and would not substantially increase hazards due to a
design feature. Rather, the project would enhance mobility and provide for fewer conflicts
between vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians in the Downtown. There would be a beneficial
impact as a result of the proposed project.
f) No Impact. The proposed project would improve traffic (both vehicular and cycle) and
pedestrian flow in the Downtown and would reduce conflicts between vehicles, cyclists, and
pedestrians. This improvement in traffic flow would actually improve emergency access to the
area. During construction of the project, there is the potential for temporary lane closures as the
street improvements are constructed; however, the City of Santa Monica Police and Fire
Departments will coordinate with other City departments during construction to ensure that
emergency access is maintained at all times. Therefore, there would be no impact with regard to
emergency access as a result of implementation of the proposed project.
g) No Impact. The proposed project would not conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs
regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance
or safety of such facilities.
With the proposed conversion of Colorado Avenue into a westbound only street, some of the
existing transit lines may need to be re- routed or their bus stop facilities may need to be
relocated. However, the rerouting of bus lines and the relocation of bus stops would not affect
the overall availability and capacity of transit service.
In addition, the City's Bike Action Plan, guided and supported by the Santa Monica's 2010 Land
Use and Circulation Element (LUCE) describes a vision for the city's future that protects and
enhances the city's beautiful neighborhoods, creates new community benefits in complete
neighborhoods around the new light rail stations, restores community character through good
design, and minimizes traffic through a "No Net New PM Peak Hour Vehicle Trips" policy. The Bike
Action Plan, adopted in late 2011, is an implementation component of the LUCE and identified
Colorado Esplanade as a high visibility bikeway for priority implementation. The project would
implement the vision for Colorado Esplanade as set forth in the Bike Action Plan and improve the
mobility of visitors and residents. The project includes substantial streetscape improvements to
facilitate bicycle and pedestrian flow while reducing conflicts with motor vehicle traffic. The
project will be integrated with the future LRT station and provide an enhanced environment that
would encourage transit, bicycle, and pedestrian use. The proposed project would also support
the Bike Center at the parking structure on 2nd Street and Colorado Avenue. Therefore, there
would be no impact with respect to conflict with adopted policies regarding public transit,
bicycle, or pedestrian facilities.
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••.• ...... Page 77 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
(d)
Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the
- I vl, . ,,.,,,y will , ",,,w „ -.
Significant Mitigation c Significant `. No
Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
XX.
UTILITIES /SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would the project:
(a)
Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the
❑ ❑ ❑
applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board?
(b)
Require or result in the construction of new water or
❑ ❑ ❑
wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of
(e)
existing facilities, the construction of which could
❑
❑
cause significant environmental effects?
(c)
Require or result in the construction of new
❑ ❑ ® ❑
stormwater drainage facilities or expansion of
existing facilities, the construction of which could
cause significant environmental effects?
(d)
Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the
❑
❑
❑
project from existing entitlements and resources, or
are new or expanded entitlements needed?
(e)
Result in a determination by the wastewater
❑
❑
❑
treatment provider that serves or may serve the
project that it has adequate capacity to serve the
project's projected demand in addition to the
provider's existing commitments?
(f)
Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted
❑
❑
❑
capacity to accommodate the project's solid
waste disposal needs?
(g)
Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and
❑
❑
❑
regulations related to solid waste?
a, b, and e) No Impact. The proposed project consists of streetscape improvements and design
enhancements to convert Colorado Avenue into a complete multi -modal street. No new uses
are proposed that would result in an increase in wastewater generated at the project site. As
such, the proposed project would not exceed wastewater treatment requirements or capacity,
or require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or
expansion of existing facilities. Therefore, no impact would occur.
c) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The majority of the project site is impervious and developed as a
public street with the exception of a few planted street trees and the landscaped Main Street
triangle. On -site water management will follow the City of Santa Monica's Stormwater Guidelines
for New Construction as well as the City of Santa Monica Urban Watershed Management Plan.
The proposed project would continue to operate as an existing street. No new land uses or
development are proposed. Therefore, the proposed project would not increase the amount of
stormwater runoff. Surface water runoff would continue to flow into nearby municipal drains
and /or catch basins. As such, the proposed project would not require or result in the construction
of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities to accommodate
stormwater runoff derived from the project site, and a less- than - significant impact would occur.
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••••••• Page 78 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
d) No Impact. The proposed project consists of streetscape improvements and design
enhancements to convert Colorado Avenue into a complete multi -modal street. No new uses
are proposed that would result in a significant increase in demand for water at the project site.
Elements of the proposed project that would demand water include water features, water
fountains, and increased landscaping. As these uses do not require potable water, recycled
water from the Santa Monica Urban Runoff & Recycling Facility (SMURRF) could be used to satisfy
this demand. Therefore, sufficient water supplies are available to serve the proposed project and
there would be no impact.
and g) No Impact. The proposed project consists of streetscape improvements and design
enhancements to convert Colorado Avenue into a complete multi -modal street. No new uses
are proposed that would result in an increase in solid waste generated at the project site
compared to existing conditions. As an increase in solid would not occur with implementation of
the proposed project, solid waste could continue to be accommodated by the landfill currently
serving the project site. Construction waste would be recycled in compliance with the City's
Construction and Demolition Waste Management policies codified in the Municipal Code.
Additionally, the proposed project would be required to comply with all federal, state and local
statutes and regulations related to solid waste. Therefore, no impacts related to solid waste
would occur.
Significant Mitigation Significant No
impact Incorporated Impact '' Impact
XXI. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE
(a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the ❑ ❑ ® ❑
quality of the environment, substantially reduce the
habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or
wildlife population to drop below self- sustaining
levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal
community, reduce the number or restrict the
range of a rare or endangered plant or animal, or
eliminate important examples of the major periods
of California history or prehistory?
(b) Does the project have impacts that are individually ❑ ❑ ® ❑
limited, but cumulatively considerable?
( "Cumulatively considerable" means that the
incremental effects of a project are considerable
when viewed in connection with the effects of past
projects, the effects of other current projects, and
the effects of probable future projects)?
(c) Does the project have environmental effects that ❑ ❑ ® ❑
will cause substantial adverse effects on human
beings, either directly or indirectly?
a) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The proposed project consists of lane reconfigurations, streetscape
improvements, and design enhancements to convert Colorado Avenue into a complete multi -
modal street. The proposed project's potential to degrade the quality of the environment has
been analyzed throughout this IS /MND. All impacts to the environment have been determined to
be less than significant or less than significant with mitigation.
o - City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
D June 20, 2012
•.•.••••.•• Page 79 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Issues
The proposed project would not cause a fish or wild -life population to drop below self- sustaining
levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the
range of rare or endangered plants or animals. As discussed in Section IV (Biological Resources),
because the project is completely developed and located in an urbanized area within the City,
the proposed project would have no impact on habitat or protected plant or animal species.
The proposed project would not eliminate important examples of major periods of California
history or prehistory. As discussed in Section IV (Cultural Resources), impacts to cultural resources
would be less than significant because no historical resources are located within the project site
and it is unlikely that archeological or paleontological resources would be encountered because
the area has been previously disturbed and grading and excavation would be minimal.
b) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The proposed project would result in no impacts, less -than-
significant impacts, less- than - significant impacts with mitigation, or beneficial impacts with
respect to thresholds of significance. Construction and operation of other development projects
in the City, in combination with the proposed project, would result in short -term air quality, noise,
greenhouse gas emissions, and traffic impacts during construction. If construction were to occur
concurrently, air quality violations could result. Implementation of mitigation as described above
would reduce all project impacts during construction to less than significant. Operation of
cumulative development in the City could also result in adverse impacts to air quality,
greenhouse gas emissions, noise, and traffic if vehicle miles traveled were increased. Cumulative
development would also increase the demand for public services and utilities. However, the
project is not a traffic - generating project; rather, it is intended to improve the mobility of residents
and visitors. Therefore, the proposed project would not make a cumulatively considerable
contribution to any potential cumulative impacts.
c) Less - Than - Significant Impact. The proposed project would generate short -term, temporary
impacts with regard to air quality, noise, greenhouse gas emissions, and traffic during
construction. Implementation of mitigation as described above would reduce all impacts to less
than significant. There are no substantial adverse impacts as a result of operation of the
proposed project.
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••- Page 80 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
References
REFERENCES
California Department of Conservation, Division of Mines and Geology. State of California Seismic
Hazard Zones, Beverly Hills Quadrangle, March 25, 1999.
California Department of Transportation. California Scenic Highway Mapping System, Los Angeles
County. http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/LandArch/scenic-highways/index.hfm (accessed March 3,
2012).
California Division of Land Resource Protection. Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program, Los
Angeles County Map, 2008. ftp: / /ftp.consrv.ca. gov / pub /dlrp /FMMP /pdf /2008 /losO8.pdf.
California Environmental Protection Agency. Cortese List Data Resources.
http: / /www.colepa. ca.gov /sitecleanup /corteselist/ (accessed April 3, 2012).
Department of Toxic Substances Control, EnviroStor. Former Sears Auto Center #6081, 402 Colorado
Avenue, Santa Monica, CA, 90401, Los Angeles County, Voluntary Cleanup (accessed March 7,
2012).
Federal Emergency Management Agency. Panel 1590 of 2350, September 2008. msc.fema.gov
(accessed April 2012).
Harris Miller Miller & Hanson Inc. Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment, Final Report, May
2006.
Santa Monica, City of. Geologic Hazards Map, April 2001.
Online Property Information System, 2012 (accessed on March 7, 2012).
Santa Monica General Plan. Land Use and Circulation Element, adopted July 6, 2010.
Santa Monica General Plan. Conservation Element, 1975.
Santa Monica General Plan. Historic Preservation Element, 2002.
Santa Monica General Plan. Open Space Element, 1997.
Santa Monica General Plan. Scenic Corridors Element, 1975.
Santa Monica Municipal Code.
. Santa Monica Sustainable City Plan, revised October 24, 2006.
Santa Monica Urban Forest Master Plan, adopted December 13, 2011.
State Water Resources Control Board, Geotracker. Case Summary, Sears Retail Center #1178, 302
Colorado Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90401, Los Angeles County (accessed March 7, 2012).
e� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••- Page 81 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
. Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
RESPONSES TO COMMENTS ON THE PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT IS /MND
The Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration and Neighborhood Impact Statement Checklist
(MND) for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project was circulated for review and comment by the
public, agencies, and organizations for a 30 -day public review period that began on May 8, 2012,
and concluded on June 8, 2012. The Notice of Intent (NOI) to adopt the MND was posted with the
Los Angeles County Clerk and the State Clearinghouse, mailed to all owners and occupants within
1,000 feet of the project boundaries, made available on the City's website, distributed to all relevant
public agencies, and mailed to all City neighborhood groups. Six comment letters were received
during the public review period, as described in the following table. The page number of this Final
MND each comment letter can be found is also indicated.
Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) May 24, 2012 83
Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) June 4, 2012 89
Southern California Edison (SCE) I June 5, 2012 94
Metropolitan Transportation Authority (METRO) I June 7, 2012 96
Caroline Mayson (CMAY) June 8, 2012 98
Harding Larmore Katcher & Kozo], LLP (HLKK) June 8, 2012 100
The complete text of the comments and the City's response to those comments are presented in this
section, with written comments reproduced in their entirety, and the responses to those comments
presented thereafter. CEQA does not require written responses to comments received on an MND;
however, the City has reviewed the comments received and prepared these responses to provide
full information to the decision - makers and the public.
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••.• ..... Page 82 of 179
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), May 24, 2012
May 24, 2012
Ms. Rachel Kwok, Project Plannor
City of Santa Monica
1 685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Door Ms. Kwok:
The Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), the State of California
'Trustee Agency' for the protection and preservation of Native American cultural resources
pursuant to California Public Resources Code §21070 and affirmed by the Third Appellate Court
to the case of EPIC v. Johnson (1985: 170 Cal App. 3'" 604).
This letter includes state and federal statutes relating to Native American
historic properties of religious and cultural significance to American Indian tribes and Interested
Native American individuals as'consutling parties' under both state and federal law, State law
also addresses the freedom of Native American Religious Expression In Public Resources Code
§5097.0.
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA — CA Public Resources Code
21000- 21177, amendments effective Oil 812010) requires that any project that causes a
substantial adverse change In the significance of an historical resource, that Includes
archaeological resources, is a'significant effect' requiring the preparation of an Environmental
Impact Report (EiR) per the CEOA Guidelines defines a significant impact on the environment
as'a substantial, or potentially substantial, adverse change in any of physical conditions within
an area affected by the proposed project, including ... objects of historic or aesthetic
significance:" In order to comply with this provision, the lead agency is required to assess
whether the project will have an adverse Impact on these resources within the'area of potential
effect (APE), and if so, to mitigate that effect The NAHC did conduct a Sacred Lands File (SLF)
search within lhe'area of potential effect (APC) and Native Amorican cultural resources were
not identified.
The NAHC 'Sacred Sitas,' as defined by the Native American Heritage Commission and
the California Legislature in California Public Resources Code § §5097.94(a) and 5097.00.
Items in the NAHC Sacred Lands Inventory are confidential and exempt from the Public
Records Act pursuant to California Government Code §0254 (r).
Early consultation with Native Arperican tribes in your area is the best way to avoid
unanticipated discoveries of cultural resources or burial sites once a project Is underway.
Culturally affiliated tribes and individuals may have knowledge of the religious and Cultural
significance of the historic properties in the project area (e.g. APE). We strongly urge that you
make contact with the list of Native American Contacts on the attached list of Native American
NAHC
NAHC -1
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••••• Page 83 of 119
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE COMMISSION
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May 24, 2012
Ms. Rachel Kwok, Project Plannor
City of Santa Monica
1 685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Door Ms. Kwok:
The Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), the State of California
'Trustee Agency' for the protection and preservation of Native American cultural resources
pursuant to California Public Resources Code §21070 and affirmed by the Third Appellate Court
to the case of EPIC v. Johnson (1985: 170 Cal App. 3'" 604).
This letter includes state and federal statutes relating to Native American
historic properties of religious and cultural significance to American Indian tribes and Interested
Native American individuals as'consutling parties' under both state and federal law, State law
also addresses the freedom of Native American Religious Expression In Public Resources Code
§5097.0.
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA — CA Public Resources Code
21000- 21177, amendments effective Oil 812010) requires that any project that causes a
substantial adverse change In the significance of an historical resource, that Includes
archaeological resources, is a'significant effect' requiring the preparation of an Environmental
Impact Report (EiR) per the CEOA Guidelines defines a significant impact on the environment
as'a substantial, or potentially substantial, adverse change in any of physical conditions within
an area affected by the proposed project, including ... objects of historic or aesthetic
significance:" In order to comply with this provision, the lead agency is required to assess
whether the project will have an adverse Impact on these resources within the'area of potential
effect (APE), and if so, to mitigate that effect The NAHC did conduct a Sacred Lands File (SLF)
search within lhe'area of potential effect (APC) and Native Amorican cultural resources were
not identified.
The NAHC 'Sacred Sitas,' as defined by the Native American Heritage Commission and
the California Legislature in California Public Resources Code § §5097.94(a) and 5097.00.
Items in the NAHC Sacred Lands Inventory are confidential and exempt from the Public
Records Act pursuant to California Government Code §0254 (r).
Early consultation with Native Arperican tribes in your area is the best way to avoid
unanticipated discoveries of cultural resources or burial sites once a project Is underway.
Culturally affiliated tribes and individuals may have knowledge of the religious and Cultural
significance of the historic properties in the project area (e.g. APE). We strongly urge that you
make contact with the list of Native American Contacts on the attached list of Native American
NAHC
NAHC -1
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••••• Page 83 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
contact_s,, to see if your propnsed project rniglnt impact Native American cultural resources and to
obtain their recommendations concerning the proposed project. Pursuant to CA Public
Resources Code § 501)7,95, the NAHC requests cooperation from other public agencies in order
that the Native American consulting parties be provided pertinent project information.
Consultation with Native American communities is also a matter of environmental justice as
deflned by California Government Code §66040.12(e). Pursuant to CA Public Resources Code
§5097.95, the NAHC requests that pertinent project information be provided consulting tribal
parties. The NAHC recommends avoidance, as defined by CEQA Guidelines §15370(a) to
pursuing a project that would damage or destroy Native American cultural resources and
Section 2183,2 that requires documentation, data recovery of cultural resources.
Furthermore. One NAHC if the proposed project is Linder the jurisdiction of the statutes
and regulations or the National Environmental Policy Act (e.g, NEPA; 42 U.S.C. 4321-43361).
Consultation with tribes and interested Native American consulting parties, on the NAHC list,
should be conducted in compliance with the requirements of federal NEPA and Section 106 and
4(f) of federal NHPA (16 U.S.C. 470 of seq), 36 CFR Part 800.3 (0 (2) & .5, the Presidents
Council on Environmental Quality (C SO, 42 U.S.0 4371 at seq, and NAGPRA (25 U.S.C. 3001-
3013) as appropriate. The 1992 Secretary of the tntotiors Standards for the Treatment of
Historic Properties were revised so that they could be applied to all historic resource types
included in the National Register of Historic Places and including cultural landscapes. Also,
federal Executive Orders Nos. 11593 (preservation of cultural environment), 13175
(coordination & consultation) and 13007 (Sacred Sites) are helpful, supportive guides for
Section 106 consultation. The aforementioned Secretary of the Interior's Standards Include
recommendations for all 'lead agencies' to consider the historic context of proposed projects
and to `research" the ,cultural landscape that might include the'area of potential effect'
Confidentiality of "historic properties of religious and cultural significanoe' should also be
considered as protected by California Government Code §6254( r) and may also be protected
under Section 304 of tie NHPA or at the Secretary of the interior discretion if not eligible for
listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The Secretary may also be advised by the
federal Indian Religious Freedom Act (cf. 42 U.S.C., 1996) in issuing a decision on whether or
not to disclose items of religious and /or cultural significance identified In or near the APES and
possibility threatened by proposed project activity.
Furthermore, Public Resources Code Section 5097,98, California Government Code
§27491 and Health & Safety Code Section 7050.5 provide for provisions for inadvertent
discovery of human remains mandate the processes to be followed in the event of a discovery
of human remains in a project location other than a'dedicated cemetery'.
To be effective, consultation on specific projects must be the result of an ongoing
relationship between Native American tribes and lead agencies, project proponents and their
contractors, in the opinion of the NAHC. Regarding tribal consultation, a relationship built
around regular meetings and informal involvement with local tribes will lead to more qualitative
consultation tribal Input on specific projects.
Finally, when Native American cultural sites and /or Native American burial sites are
prevalent within the project site, the NAHC recommends'avoldanoW of the site as referenced by
CEQA Guidelines Section 15370(a).
NAHC -1
Cant.
m� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
-••- Page 84 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
It you hove any quggssttons about this response to your request, please do not hesitate to
me at (91 G) 653. 0251..
Program
Cc: state
Attachment: NWrve American Contact List
o City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 85 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
LA City/County Native American Indian Comm
Ron Andrade, Director
3175 West 0th St, Rat. 403
Los Angeles , CA 90020
randrade 0oss.lacou nty.gov
(213)351 -5324
(213) 386 -3995 FAX
Owl Ciao
Qun -tan Shop
48825 Sapaque Road
Bradley , CA 93426
mupakaiRgmall.com
(805) 472 -9536 phone/fax
(805) 8352382 - CELL
Native American Contacts
Los Angeles County
May 24, 2012
21 rioleno/Tori San Gabriel Band of Mission
iiony Morales, halrporson
PO Box 693 Gabrielino Tongva
San Gabriel . CA 91778
GTTtii)ai(,otincil@.iol.com
{626) 286.1632
(626) 286-1758 - Home
(626) 286.1262 -FAX
tdabrialkin Tongva Nation
Sam Dunlap, Chairperson
Chumash P.O. box 86908
Los Angeles , CA 900e0
stundurilap@oarthlin1l.net
(969) 262.9351 - cell
Ti'At Society /inter - Tribal Council of Pimu
Cindi M. Alvitre, Chairwoman- Manisar
3094 Mace Avenue, Apt. B Gabrielino
Costa Mesa,, CA 92626
calvitro o yahoo.com
(714) 504-2468 Call
Tongva Ancestral Territorial Tribal Nation
John Tommy Rosas, Tribal Admin.
Private Address Gabriolirlo Tongva
tattniaw@gmall.com
310. 570.6567
This list Is current only as of the data of title d000motit.
Gabrielino Tongva
OaurMlno Tongva Indlans of California Tribal Council
Robert F. Doramo, Tribal Chair /Cultural Resources
P.O, box 490 Gabrielino Tongva
Bellflower CA 90707
gtongva0verizon.not
562 - 761.6417 - voice
562 - 761.6417 -fax
Gabrielino- Tongva Tribe
Bernie Aeons
1876 Century Pk East #1500 Gabrielino
Los Angeles , CA 90067
(619) 294- 6060 -viork
(310) 428 -5690 -cell
(310) 567.0170 - FAX
bacunai (09abrietnottibe.org
Distribution of this list does not rollevo any portion of the statutory responsibility as defined in Section 7050.5 of the Wolin and Safety Code,
Section 6007.94 of the Public Resources Code and Section 6097.90 of public Rosolvices Code.
This list Is earl [cable contacting 10681 Native AmbNC00e with regard to cultural resources for the proposed
SCN8 2 012 0 510 29t CE(1A Notice of Completion; proposed dlltipeied NCgotivb en610rolioti r0r Ilia Colorado Esplanade Prolecb located In the
City of Santa final"; Los Angnlbs County, Calitoada.
o� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 86 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Native American Contacts
Las Angeles County
May 24, 2012
Gabriellno -Ton`�c)va Tribe
Linda Candolaria, Chairwoman
1875 Century Pk East #1500 Gabrielino
Los Angeles , CA 90067
Ioandeladai ngabrielinoTribP.org
626 - 676 -1184 - cell
(310) 587 -0170 - FAX
760 - 904.6533 -horse
Santa Ynez Tribal Eiders Council
Freddie Roinero, Cultural Preservation Consint
P.Q. Box 365 Chumash
Santa Ynez , CA 93460
freddyrornoro1959@yahoo.
305.688 -7897, Ext 37
Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians
Andrew Salas, Chairtierson
P.Q. Box 393 Gabrielino
Covina , CA 91723
(626) 926 -4131
gabrielenoindiansQ yahoo.
Cora
This list Is current only as of the data of fill* dootOpent.
Distribution of gds list does not relieve ally poison of the statutory responsibility as dolined in Santlon 7050.€ of the Hooldt and Willy Cotton
$action 6097.94 of ilia Public resources Code and Section 5097.90 of the public Resources Cade.
This list is applicable for contacting local Native Arnericalls with regard to cultural resources for lira proposed
SCHGOV0510 29; CggA Notirm of Complotion; proposed Mltigalad Nogagvo Doclaraden for the Colorado Espianfldo Prolact; located In the
City of Santa Monica; Los Angel" County, C jfhuljla.
e City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 87 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), May 24, 2012
Response to Comment NAHC -1
This letter cites the statutory authority for performing a Cultural Resources analysis. As discussed in the
MND, the project site is located within a highly urbanized area and has been developed for a
number of years. Therefore, any archaeological resources on the site would likely have already been
uncovered. Furthermore, the proposed project would require minimal grading and excavation within
the public right -of -way (approximately 10 feet below ground surface). As such, the likelihood of
uncovering archaeological resources is low and impacts on archaeological resources would be less
than significant. Furthermore, any discovery of resources would be treated in accordance with
federal, state, and local guidelines for disclosure, recovery, preservation, and curation, as
appropriate.
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••.. ... Page 88 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Department of Toxic Substances Control (DISC), June 4, 2012
Department of Toxic Substances Control
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June 4, 2012
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Nts, Rachel Kwok
City of Santa Monica Planning Department
1685 Main Street, Room 212
Santa Monica, California 90401 -
NOTICE OF PREPARATION (NOP) FOR COLORADO LSPLANADL PROJECT
Dear Ms. Kwok:
The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) has received your Submitted
Notice of Preparation Report for the above - mentioned project. The following project
description is stated in your document: "The proposed Colorado Avenue Esplanade
Project (proposed project) would implement circulation modifications, Sir oetscape
Improvements, and design enhancements to create a gateway Into the City from the
Exposition Light Rail (LRT) Station and a rnttlg -modal street that provide connections
between the Expo LRT (LRT) Station, Downtown, the Civic Center, and specific
destinations such as Palisades Park, Palisades Garden Walk, and the Pier.
The project site extends along Colorado Avenue within the public, right of way (streets,
sidewalks, and landscaped areas) from the future Expo LRT Station at 4th Street to
Ocean Avenue, inclusive of the intersection at Ocean, and about 200 feet south of
Colorado on Ocean Avenue, Additionally, the project site Includes the northern sidewalk
of Colorado Avenue from 4th to 5th Stroels, Main Street within the public right-of -way
south of Colorado Avenue to the 1 -10 freeway, the Main Street Triangle landscaped
area, and 4th Street within the public right -of -way just north of Colorado Avenue.
The proposed project would transform Colorado Avenue within the project site Into a
mullimodal street that supports pedestrian, transit, and bicycle users through the
provision of widened sklowalks, a two -way, buffer bike facility (cycle track), a reduction
in the number of vehicular lanes and a change in vehicle flow, the realignment of the
Main Street to Second Street conneotion to comply with the circulation improvement
outlined in thu Civic Center Specific Plan, enhancod crosswalks, and new slgnalizalion,
PodoMrian and bicycle facilities world be Improved and expanded. The Main Street
Triangle, an existing landscaped area located on the south side of Colorado Avenue at
Main Street, would be racontgured by the roadway realignment and Improved to create
a pedestrian gateway to the Civic Center District and create a space for public
DT &C -f
o� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2072
•••••• Page 89 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Ms. Rachel Kwok
June 4, 2012
Page 2
gathering. The Colorado Avenue stroetscapo would be enhanced with decorative DTSC -1
paving, inlaid way finding, street furniture, lighting, landscaping, and public art in order Cont.
to improve the pedestrian realm ".
Based on the review of the submitted document DTSC ties the following comments:
1) T he FIR should evaluate wheihor conditions within the project aroa may pose a
threat to human health or the environment. Following are the databases of some
or the regulatory agencies:
w National Priorities List (NPL): A list maintained by the United States
Environmental Protection Agency (U.S.EPA).
b Envirostor (formerly CalSites): A Database primarily used by the California
Department of Toxic Substances Control, accessible through DTSC's
websito (see below).
A Resource Conservation and Recovery Information Systom (RCRIS): A
database of RCRA facilities that is maintained by U.S. EPA.
e Comprehensive Environmental Response Cornpensation and Liability
Information System (CFRCLIS): A database of CERCLA sites that is
maintained by U.S.EPA.
o Solid Waste information System (SWIS): A database provided by the
California Integrated Waste Management Board which consists of born
open as well as closed and inactive solid waste disposal facilities and
transfer stations.
GooTreckor: A List that is maintained by Rogionai Water Quality Control
Boards.
Local Counties and Cities maintain lists for hazardous substances cleanup
sites and leaking underground storage tanks.
a The United States Anny Corps of Engineers, 911 Wilshire Boulevard,
Los Angeles, California, 90017, (213) 452 -3908, maintains a list of
Pormoriy Used Defense Sites (F'UDS).
DTSC -2
2) The FIR should identify the mechanism to Fnitlate any required investigation
and /or rernediation for any site that may be contaminated, and the government DTSC -3
agency to provide appropriate regulatory oversight, if nocessary, DTSC would
require an oversight agreement in order to review such documents.
o City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
...... ...... page 90 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Ads. Rachel Kwok
June 4, 2012
Page 3
3) Any enviromnoo(al investigations, sampling and /or remediation for a site should
be conducted under a \Norkplan approved and overseen by a regulatory agency
that has jurisdiction to oversee hazardous substance cleanup. The findings of
any investigations, including any Phase I or h Lnvironmerstai Site Assessment DISC -4
Investigatlons shottld be summarized in the document. All sampling results in
which hazardous substances were found above regulatory standards should be
clearly summarized in a table. All closure, certification or remedlatfon approval
reports by regulatory agencies should be Included in lire EIR.
4) If buildings, other structures, asphalt or concrete -paved surface areas are being
planned to be demolished, an investigation should also be conducted for the
prosenee of other hazardous chemicals, mercury, and asbestos containing
r
materials (ACMs). If other hazardous chemicals, load -based paints (LPI3) or DTSC -5
products, mercury or ACfvis are Identified, proper precautions should be taken
during demolition activities. Additionally, the contaminants should be remodiated
in compliance with California environmental regulations and policies.
5) Future project constroction (flay rogtlirre coil excavation or filling in cerlaln areas.
Sampling may be required, if soil is contaminated, it roust be property disposed
and not simply placed in another location onsite. Land Disposal Restrictions DISC -5
(LDRs) may be applicable to such soils. Also, if the project proposes to import
soil to backfill the areas excavated, sampling should be conducted to ensure that
the Imported soil is free of contamination.
6) Human health and the environmont of sensitive receptors should be protected
during any construction or demolition activities. If necessary, a health risk
assessment overseen and approved by the appropriate government agency DISC -7
should be conducted by a qualified health risk assessor to determine if thoro are,
have been, or will be, any releases of hazardous materials that may pose a risk
to human health or the environment.
7) if it is determined that hazardous wastes are, or will be, generated by the
proposed operations, the wastes must be managed In accordance with the
California Hazardous Waste Control Law (California Health and Safety Code,
Division 20, Chanter 6.5) and the Hazardous Waste Control Regulations
(California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4.5). If it is determined that
hazardous wastes will be generated, the facility should also obtain a United DTSG8
States Environmental Protection Agency Identification Number by contacting
(bon) 618 -6942. Certain hazardous waste heatlment processes or hazardous
materials, handling, storage or uses may requiro authorization from the local
Certifrud Unified Program Agency (CUPA). Information about the requirement for
authon/,atfon can be obtained by contacting your focal CUPA,
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
• •• -• Page 91 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Ms. Rachel Kwok
,tune 4, 2012
Page 4
8) DTSC can provide cleanup oversight through an Environmontal Oversight
Agreement (EOA) for government agencies that aro not responsible parties, or a
Voluntary Cleanup Agreement (VCA) for private parties. Eor additional DTSC -9
information on the EOA or VCA, please see
evww.( Itsc. ca.gov /SiteC[eanup /Browrifiel(is, or contact Ms. Maryam'rasnif-
Abbasi; DTSC's Voluntary Cleat)up Coordinator, at (714) 484-5489.
If you have any questions regarding this letter, please contact me at
ahami dtsc cq,gpv, or by phone at (714) 484 -5472. DT3C -10
Sincere 1f
AIfia 1
Project Manager
Brows fiefds and Environmental Restoration Program
cc: Governor's Office of Planning and Research
State Clearinghouse
P.O. Box 3044
Sacramento, California 95812 -3044
sta t o. I l ea rr in rt4 O us e CQ o u r. c a.gey
GEQA Tracking Center
Department of Toxic Substances Control
Office of Environmental Planning and Analysis
P.O. Box 806
Sacramento, California 951312
nritler( dtsc.ca.ggy.
CEQA # 3542
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••.•�•••. Page 92 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), June 4, 2012
Response to Comment DTSC -1
This comment contains introductory materials as well as a summary of the project characteristics and
is not a comment on the adequacy of the MND. No further response is required.
Response to Comment DTSC -2
This comment states that the EIR [sic] should evaluate whether conditions within the project area
may pose a threat to human health or the environment and lists applicable databases for a
hazardous materials search. The appropriate databases were searched by City staff and all results
reported in Section IX of the MND. No further response is required.
Response to Comment DTSC -3
This comment states that the EIR [sic] should identify the mechanism to initiate any required
investigation and /or remediation for any site that may be contaminated. Mitigation measure
MM HAZ -1, identified on page 39 of this MND, includes provisions for further investigation and /or
remediation in the event any previously unknown contamination is discovered during project
construction. Implementation of the mitigation measure would reduce potential impacts to less -than-
significant levels.
Response to Comment DTSC -4
Please see Response to Comment DTSC -3, above.
Response to Comment DTSC -5
Please see Response to Comment DTSC -3, above.
Response to Comment DTSC -6
Please see Response to Comment DTSC -3, above.
Response to Comment DTSC -7
Please see Response to Comment DTSC -3, above.
Response to Comment DTSC -8
The proposed project would not generate any hazardous wastes, and no further is required.
Response to Comment DTSC -9
This comment is not on the adequacy or the analysis contained in the MND and provides information
as to how the DTSC can help in cleanup oversight. No further response is required.
o� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 93 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Southern California Edison (SCE), June 5, 2012
1, ii SON
i-
June 6, 2012 12 4W -8 am
Rachel Kwock
Environmental Planner
1096 Main Street, Room 212 _
Santa Monica CA 00401
Re: Colorado Esplanade Project
Dear Rachel Kwock:
Southern California Edison (SCE) appreciates the opportunity to provide comment on the above i SCE -1
referenced project. i
SCE Company righbof -ways and foo -owned properties are purchased for the exclusive use of SCE to
operate and maintain Its present and future facilities. Any proposed use will be revierrod on a case -by-
case basis by SCE's Operating Department. Approvals or denials will be in writing based upon review of
the maps provided and compalibifitywita SCE right -of -way constraints and rights. in the event ale project
impacts SCE facilities or its land related rights, please forward six (0) sets of plans depicting SCE's
facilities and associated land rights to the following location:
SCE -2
Real Properties Department
Southern California Edison Company
2131 Walnut drove Avenue
G -0.3 -• Second Floor
Rosemead, CA 01770
Please be adviuml if development plans result In the need to build new or relocate existing SCE electrical
facilities that operate at or above 60 kV, the SCE construction may have enviramiontal consequences
subject to CEQA review as required by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). If those
environmuntal consequences are identified and addressed by the local agency In the CEQA process for SCE -3
the larger project, SCE may not be required to pursue a later, separate, mandatory CEQA review through
the CPUC's General Order 131 -D (GO 131-D) process. If the SCE facilities are not adequately addressed
In the CEQA review for the larger project, and tha new facilities could result In significant environmental
impacts, the required additional CEOA review at file CPUC could delay approval of the SCE power line
portion of the project for two years or longer.
Once again, we appreciate the opportunity to comment on the project. If you have any questions
regarding this letter, do not hesitate to contact me at (310) 315-3201. SCE -4
Sincerely,
G c:z'
Mark Olson
Local Public Affairs Region Manager
Southern California Edison Company
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
D June 20, 2012
••••• Page 94 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Southern California Edison (SCE), June 5, 2012
Response to Comment SCE -1
This comment contains introductory material and does not relate to the adequacy of the MND. No
further response is required.
Response to Comment SCE -2
This comment outlines the procedures for SCE rights -of -way and fee -owned properties and discusses
what must occur if the project were to impact SCE facilities or land- related rights. The project would
not impact any existing SCE facilities and would not require the relocation of existing SCE power lines.
Furthermore, no SCE owned land are located adjacent to the project site. Comment is noted and
the City will comply with this request if applicable. No further response is required.
Response to Comment SCE -3
This comment discusses potential impacts from construction of any new or relocation of any existing
SCE electrical facilities that operate at or about 50 kV. If implementation of the proposed project
were to result in construction of new or relocation of any existing SCE facilities of this voltage or
above that would result in additional environmental impacts not analyzed in the MND, further
environmental review would be conducted in accordance with CEQA.
Response to Comment SCE -4
This comment contains closing remarks only and is not a comment on the adequacy of the MND. No
further response is required.
® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••.• ...... Page 95 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Metropolitan Transit Authority (METRO), June 7, 2012
Metropolitan Transportation Autliodty one Cxt?way Plaza 213.922a0oo TO
Los Angcics• CA 9oos2 -2952 metromet
Metro,
June 7, 2012
Ms. Rachel Kwok
City of Santa Monica
Environmental Planner
1685 Main Street, Room 212
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Subject: Notice of Intent to Adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Colorado
Esplanade Project
Dear Ms. Kwok:
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Notice of Intent to Adopt a
Mitigated Negative Declaration for the proposed Colorado Esplanade Project. The Los
Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LACMTA) is responding in the
capacity as a responsible agency with respect to the proposed project's potential
impacts on Metro and municipal transit services. The following should be addressed
prior to construction of the proposed project:
Several transit corridors with Metro bus service could be Impacted by the
project. Metro Bus Operations Control Special Events Coordinator should be METRO -1
contacted at 213 - 922 -4632 regarding construction activities that may Impact
Metro bus lines. Other Municipal Bus Service Operators including Santa
Monica Big Blue Bus may also be impacted and therefore should be included
in construction outreach efforts.
If you have any questions regarding this response, please contact me at 213 - 922 -2836
or by email at hartwells @metromet.
Sincerely,
Scott Hartwell
CEQA Review Coordinator, Long Range Planning
® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 96 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Metropolitan Transit Authority (METRO), June 7, 2012
Response to Comment METRO -1
This comment requests that any transit corridors with Metro bus service that could be impacted by
the project should be identified and consultation should ensue with the Metro Bus Operations Control
Special Events Coordinator. Comment is noted. As noted in the MND, the proposed project would
likely require the rerouting of existing bus lines. The City is in the process of determining specific bus
operations that could be affected and will coordinate with Metro, as well as other municipal bus
service operators, as necessary, to ensure that bus operations are not adversely affected.
a City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••••••• Page 97 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Caroline Mayson (CMAY), June 8, 2012
CMAY
From:
Rachel Kwok [Rachel.Kwok @SMGOV.NETj
Sent:
Friday, June 08, 2012 3:13 PM
To:
Rondone, Alison E
Cc:
Joanna Hankamer
Subject:
FW: Colorado Esplanade Project
Another comment on the MND
From: Caroline Mayson [mailto:csmaysonftmaiLcoml
Sent: Friday, June 08, 2012 3:10 PM
To: Rachel Kwok
Subject: Colorado Esplanade Project
from Caroline Mayson, 1530 5th St. d 405, Santa Monica, Ca 90401; 310 -451 -9667.
I do not believe that the Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration adequately and
accurately addresses certain aspects of the above referenced City initiated project. CMAY -1
Primarily, but not linnited to, are concerns related to the following three of the the 18
eneiromnenntal factors: p.47, 3[7II Neighborhood effects; p.48, ) IV Noise; ail p.56,
Traisportationn/traffic. I do not believe these studies represent the facts.
There will be noise from the traffic waiting for the trains to pass, warning train signals, CMAY -2
increased traffic and other factors, sortie of nvhich me related to the one way streets. CMAY -3
Since, because of partial federal funding, NEPA (National Enviromnental Policy
Act) and Caltranns approval are needed I feel the city Connncil as well as these and other CMAY -4
approvals must be given a closer more critical analysis. Tliank you for your attention.
Caroline Mayson
This message has been checked for threats by Atkins IS
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••••••• Page 98 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Caroline Mayson (CMAY), June 8, 2012
Response to Comment CMAY -1
This comment contains introductory material for the comments that follow. Specific responses to
those comments are provided, below. No further response is required.
Response to Comment CMAY -2
The commenter expresses concern over traffic noise from cars waiting for trains to pass as well as
noise from warning train signals. These effects are attributable to the Expo LRT (not the proposed
project) and were analyzed in the Final Environmental Impact Report for the Exposition Corridor
Transit Project Phase 2 (December 2009).
Response to Comment CMAY -3
Traffic impacts as a result of the project's roadway improvements (including the one -way travel)
were fully analyzed in the Traffic Study for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project (April 2012),
attached as Appendix C to the MND. All impacts, including those occurring as a result of conversion
of two -way into one -way streets, were analyzed, and the impacts on intersection levels of service
capacities were found to be less than significant.
Response to Comment CMAY -4
All impacts of the proposed project were analyzed in sufficient detail in the MND to allow the
decision makers to be appropriately informed as to the project's effects. NEPA clearance will be
sought separately from the CEQA process and Caltrans is being consulted for that effort.
o� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••••• Page 99 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Harding Larmore Kutcher & Kozal, LLP (HLKK), June 8, 2012
HLKK
I[ARDING LARtvtt_)RE KUI'C:IIER & KOZAI., HT
(310) 461 -4138 ��._. _�„ kozal @hlkkiaw.com
June 8, 2012
VIA E -MAIL
Rachel Kwok
Environmental Planner
1685 Main Street, Room 212
Santa Monica, CA 00401
Re: Colorado Esplanade Draft Initial Study /Millgated Negative Declaration
Our File No. 20706.001
Dear Ms. Kwok:
Our firm represents FelCor, the owner of the Holiday Inn site at 120 Colorado
Avenue. This letter comments on the traffic study that is attached as Appendix "C' HLKK -1
(`Traffic Study ") to the Colorado Esplanade Draft Initial Study /Mitigated Negative
Declaration (`MND" ).
As part of the Colorado Esplanade Plan, Main Street will be reconfigured to align
with the Colorado Avenue /Second Street intersection. The Traffic Study analyzes traffic
and turning movements at [his "new" intersection. However, FelCor is concerned that
the Traffic Study does not adequately study and address the fact that cars waiting to
turn left into the Holiday Inn site will likely back up into this intersection.
The vehicular ingress and egress at the Holiday Inn site is located immediately
west of the Colorado Avenue /Second Street intersection. A Googe Map photograph Is
attached showing the entrance and its close proximity to the intersection.
The Colorado Esplanade. Plan proposes a significantly widened pedestrian
walkway on the south side of Colorado. In addition, the Plan proposes a cycle track
with two six -foot wide lanes, a buffer between the cycle track and pedestrian walkway,
and a separate buffer botwoen the cycle track and the two westbound only traffic lanes
on Colorado Avenue. All of these improvements will be located between the Holiday
Inn driveway and the vehicular traffic lanes, and will have to be crossed by cars entering
and exiting the Holiday Inn's driveway.
Once the eastbound lanes are eliminated on Colorado Avenue, the only way to
enter the Holiday Inn site will be via a left turn from the westbound lanes of Colorado
Avenue: As the attached picture demonstrates, there will only he room to queue one or
HLKK -2
o City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•••••••.• Page 100 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
HARDING LARMORE KUTC:HER& KOZAL, Lt.P
AI lORN'Yi Al LAW
Rachel Kwok
June 8, 2012
Page 2
two cars west of the intersection to turn left into the Holiday Inn site. It seems likely that
during times of heavy pedestrian and bicycle traffic, left turns into the Holiday Inn will be
blocked (especially If a green light for vehicles heading west from the intersection also HLKK -2
allows pedestrians and bicycles to pass in front of the Holiday Inn's driveway). The Cont.
Traffic Study does not analyze this scenario.
Under CEQA the initial study is required to identify potential significant adverse
Impacts. CEQA Guidelines 15063(a), Ole assert that the MND and Traffic Study fail to
identify cars waiting to make a left turn into the Holiday Inn site hacking up into the
Second Street -Main Street/Colorado Avenue intersection as a potential significant
adverse traffic impact at this intersection. Ifa potential significant adverse impact is
identified, than a mitigated negative declaration is only appropriate if mitigation
treasures are identified to reduce the impact below the level of significance. CEQA
Guidelines 15064(f)(2). As noted below, we assert this can be accomplished with a
performance based mitigation measure. HLKK -3
The Traffic Study should be revised to study and analyze whether cars queuing
to make left turns into the Holiday Inn driveway from the westbound lanes of Colorado
Avenue will potentially back tip into the intersection. This is, quite clearly, a potential
adverse traffic impact that CEQA requires to be addressed. Further, the Traffic Study
should propose one or more mitigation measures to ensure a safe and efficient
vehicular Ingress Into and ogress from the Holiday Inn driveway.
We suggest that the MIND contain the following performance based mitigation
measure:
"Appropriate design components and operations will be
incorporated into the Colorado Esplanade to ensure that
vehicles making east bound left -hand turns from Colorado
Avenue into the Holiday lur site do not back up into the Second HLKKA
Street -Main Street/Colorado Avenue intersection. Such
components may include, without limitation, signals„ barriers,
signage, breaks in the buffers between the cycle track and
traffic lanes and pedestrian walkway, pedestrian bollards and
other moans and measures to unsure that pedestrians and
bicycles do not conflict with vehicles making east bound left -
hand turns from Colorado Avenue into the Holiday Inn site."
® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
••••••••• Page 101 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
HARDING LAIWORE KUTCHER C KOZAL, HY
Al fORNErs Al LAY!
Rachel Kwol<
June 8, 2012
Page 3
As we have indicated previously, FolCor supports the Colorado Esplanade Plan.
However, we believe that by failing to study the potential traffic Impact discussed above, HLKK -5
and failing to identify mitigation moasyxys, the MND does not comply with CEQA.
V.
KVK:ojb
Attachment
cc: David Martin ,
Francle Stefan
Sarah Lejuene
Joanna Hankamer
Barry Rosenbaum .
Tom Gaul
Debra Feldman
Tom Corcoran
20705; Cor)Ktvok.1001.K VK
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
..•.• ...... - Page 102 of 119
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Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Harding Larmore Kutcher & Kozal (HLKK), June 8, 2012
Response to Comment HLKK -1
This comment contains introductory material and does not comment on the adequacy of the MND.
No further response is required.
Response to Comment HLKK -2
The comment correctly characterizes the Colorado Esplanade project as creating one -way
westbound traffic flow on Colorado Avenue with a widened pedestrian walkway on the south side, a
cycle track, and a buffer between the cycle track and the vehicle traffic lanes. The Holiday Inn
driveway is located west of the Colorado Avenue /2nd Street intersection. All access to and from the
Holiday Inn driveway on completion of the proposed project would be via westbound Colorado
Avenue.
The comment asserts that the MIND and its traffic study should have identified the potential impact of
cars waiting to turn into the Holiday Inn driveway backing up into the Colorado Avenue /2nd Street
intersection. The MND traffic study was prepared in accordance with established City of Santa
Monica traffic study guidelines. It is not uncommon for cars to wait to cross pedestrian zones before
turning into private driveways. The City of Santa Monica guidelines do not identify the effect of cars
waiting to turn into a driveway as an impact category and, therefore, do not require analysis of such
as it would be speculative. Request for such an analysis is both unprecedented and, as discussed
above, not warranted.
Notwithstanding the above, the following points can nevertheless be made:
• Traffic destined for the Holiday Inn was included in the baseline traffic counts and analysis
contained in the MIND traffic study for the Colorado Avenue /2nd Street -Main Street
intersection; therefore, all traffic impacts 'on the Colorado Avenue /2nd Street intersection
have been analyzed in the MIND.
• The Colorado Esplanade . project will include further design refinements to coordinate
driveway interface with the pedestrian walkway and the cycle track (see Response to
Comment HLKK -4 below).
• Traffic volumes in and out of the Holiday Inn driveway are relatively low. Traffic counts
conducted on weekdays and weekends at the Holiday Inn driveway in August 2010 (with
hotel occupancies ranging from 91% to 100% on the days of the counts) yielded a maximum
of only 20 vehicles entering the driveway during any given hour, or an average of about one
vehicle every three minutes. An average of one entering vehicle every three minutes would
not reasonably be expected to lead to regular blockage of the Colorado Avenue /2nd Street
intersection even if the vehicle is waiting for bicyclists or pedestrians to clear the driveway
area. Furthermore, although the August 2010 driveway counts for the Holiday Inn did not
distinguish between vehicles entering from the east or the west, it is reasonable to assume
that many of these Holiday Inn vehicle trips are already arriving from the east. These
westbound vehicles entering the Holiday Inn site are currently required to turn left and cross
two lanes of existing traffic.
Response to Comment HLKK -3
See Response to Comment HLKK -2, above.
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 104 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Responses to Comments on the Public Review Draft IS /MND
Response to Comment HLKK -4
No mitigation measure would be required, since no significant impact has been identified. However,
potential design elements of the driveway interface were identified during the design phase of the
proposed project and will be further developed prior to approval of construction documents. Such
design elements could include bollards or defining the presence of the driveway, breaks in the
buffers, signage, placement of the cycle track stop bar west of the driveway, and /or pavement
treatments.
Response to Comment HLKK -5
This comment contains closing remarks summarizing the- commenter's position on the adequacy of
the analysis of the MND. Please see Responses to Comments HLKK -2 through HLKK -4, above.
�® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
•...,..,.. Page 105 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE COLORADO AVENUE
ESPLANADE PROJECT
INTRODUCTION
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires the adoption of feasible mitigation
measures to reduce the severity and magnitude of potentially significant environmental impacts
associated with project development. The Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) for the proposed
Colorado Avenue Esplanade project includes project- specific mitigation measures to reduce the
potential environmental effects of the proposed project.
Monitoring of the implementation of adopted mitigation measures is required by Public Resources
Code Section 21081.6. This Mitigation Monitoring Program (MMP) for the proposed project provides a
list of project- specific mitigation measures, and describes the process whereby the mitigation
measures would be monitored. Following certification of the MND and approval of this MMP by the
City, the project- specific mitigation measures included in the MND would be monitored as described
in this MMP.
PURPOSE
The purpose of the proposed Colorado Avenue Esplanade Mitigation Monitoring Program.is to
ensure compliance with all mitigation measures to mitigate or avoid potentially significant adverse
environmental impacts resulting from the proposed project that were identified in the MND.
Implementation of this MMP shall be accomplished by the City of Santa Monica. Project- specific
mitigation measures will be implemented (1) as part of design development of the project, (2) during
project construction, (3) as part of project operations, or (4) on an ongoing basis.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
In general, monitoring will consist of demonstrating that mitigation measures were implemented, and
that the responsible unit monitored the implementation of the measures. The responsible unit for
determining compliance with all mitigation measures will be the City of Santa Monica Planning
Division. Monitoring will consist of determining whether
• The specific issues identified in the mitigation measures were considered in the design
development phase
• Construction contracts included the provisions specified in the mitigation measures
• The required actions specified in the mitigation measures occurred prior to or during
construction
• Ongoing administrative activities included the provisions identified in the mitigation measures
Any concerns between monitors and construction personnel shall be addressed by the City Project
Manager. The contractor shall prepare a construction schedule subject to review and approval by
the City Project Manager.
LIST OF MITIGATION MEASURES
All project - specific mitigation measures included in the MND for this project will be monitored as
described above. These measures are listed in Table MMP -1 (Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
Mitigation Monitoring Program).
o City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 106 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
Biological Resources
MM BIO -1 Avoidance of
Construction
Planning &
Construction plan
Prior to issuance
PCD
Nesting Birds. To prevent
contractor
Community
review/ site
of excavation
impacts to nesting birds
Development
inspection;
and /or grading
protected under the MBTA and
(PCD)
verification of
permits,
California Fish and Game
implementation
whichever
Code, the City of Santa
comes first;
Monica shall enforce the
during site
following:
preparation
1. Where suitable vegetation
and structures for nesting
birds occur within 200 feet of
project construction
activities, all phases of
project construction shall
avoid the general nesting
season (March 1 through
August 31).
2. If construction cannot avoid
the general nesting season,
a qualified biologist shall be
retained to conduct a pre -
construction survey for
nesting birds prior to
clearing, grading and /or
construction activities on the
project site. The survey shall
be conducted within 72
hours prior to the start of
construction.
3. If any nesting birds are
resent within or
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
e®
-o June 20, 2012
,�„� Page 107 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
Table MMP-1
Mitigation Measure
Colorado
Responsible
`,Entity
Avenue Esplanade
Monitor
Project Mitigation Monitoring Program
Action by Monitor Timing /Frequency
Compliance
Check
Verification
immediately adjacent to
the proposed project
construction area, the
following shall be required:
The City of Santa Monica shall
retain a qualified biologist to
flag and demarcate the
location of all nesting birds and
monitor construction activities.
Temporary avoidance of
active bird nests, including the
enforcement of an avoidance
buffer of 25 to 200 feet,
depending on the sensitivity of
the species identified, as
determined by the qualified
biological monitor, shall be
required until the qualified
biological monitor has verified
that the young have fledged or
the nest has otherwise become
inactive.
a� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 108 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
Hazards and Hazardous Materials
MM HAZ -1 In the event that
Construction
PCD;
Stop work order; site
When identified;
PCD; DBS
previously unknown or
contractor
Department of
inspection;
upon
unidentified soil and /or
Building & Safety
verification of
completion of
groundwater contamination
(DES)
implementation;
remediation
that could present a threat to
preparation of
human health or the
health and safety
environment is encountered
plan
during construction at the
project site, construction
activities in the immediate
vicinity of the contamination
shall cease immediately. A
qualified environmental
specialist (e.g., a licensed
Professional Geologist [PG], a
licensed Professional Engineer
[PE] or similarly qualified
individual) shall conduct an
investigation to identify and to
determine the level of soil
and /or groundwater
contamination. If
contamination is encountered,
a Risk Management Plan shall
be prepared and implemented
that (1) identifies the
contaminants of concern and
the potential risk each
contaminant would pose to
human health and the
environment during
construction and p ost-
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
,_ Page 109 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
Table MMP-1
Colorado
Avenue Esplanade
Project Mitigation Monitoring Program
;Responsible
Compliance
Mitigation Measure
- Entity
Monitor
Aclion6y Monitor riming /Frequency
Check
Verfcalion
development and (2) describes
measures to be taken to
protect workers, and the public
from exposure to potential site
hazards. Such measures could
include a range of options,
including, but not limited to,
physical site controls during
construction, remediation,
long -term monitoring, post -
development maintenance or
access limitations, or some
combination thereof.
Depending on the nature of
contamination, if any,
appropriate agencies shall be
notified (e.g., Department of
Toxic Substances Control or
Regional Water Quality Control
Board). If contamination is
discovered, a Site Health and
Safety Plan that meets
Occupational Safety and
Health Administration
requirements shall be prepared
and in place prior to
commencement of work in any
contaminated area.
Noise
MM NOI -1 The City's
Construction
PCD; DBS
Construction plan
Plan check;
PCD
construction contracts for the
contractor
and contract
contract review
proposed project shall require
review
implementation of the
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
- June 20, 2012
Page 110 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
Table MMP-1
Mitigation Measure
Colorado
Responsible
'' -Entity
Avenue Esplanade
Monitor
Project Mitigation Monitoring Program
Action by Monitor rming /Frequency
Compliance
Check
Verdcafion '
following construction best
management practices (BMPs)
by all construction contractors
and subcontractors working in
or around the project site to
reduce construction noise
levels:
• Construction equipment
shall be properly muffled
according to manufactures
specifications or as required
by the City's Department of
Building and Safety,
whichever is the more
stringent.
• Noise - generating
construction equipment
and construction staging
areas shall be located
away from sensitive uses,
where feasible, to the
satisfaction of the
Department of Building and
Safety.
• Noise - attenuation measures
shall be implemented,
which may include, but are
not limited to, noise barriers
or noise blankets to the
satisfaction of the City's
Department of Building and
Safety.
�
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
a ®
- June 20, 2012
Page 111 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
Table MMP-1
Mfigation Measure
Colorado
;Responsible
'Entity
Avenue Esplanade
Monitor
Project Mitigation Monitoring Program
Action by Monitor riming /Frequency ,
Compliance
Check
Verb cation
MM NOI -2 The City's
Construction
PCD; DBS
Construction plan
Plan check;
PCD
construction contracts for the
contractor
and contract
contract review
proposed project shall include
review
the requirement that
construction staging areas,
construction worker parking
and the operation of
earthmoving equipment within
the project site, are located as
far away from vibration- and
noise - sensitive sites as possible.
Contract provisions
incorporating the above
requirements shall be included
as part of the project's
construction documents, which
shall be reviewed and
approved by the City.
MM N0I -3 The City's
Construction
PCD; DBS
Construction plan
Plan check;
PCD
construction contracts for the
contractor
and contract
contract review
proposed project shall include
review
specifications that heavily
loaded trucks used during
construction shall be routed
away from residential streets to
the extent possible. Contract
specifications shall be included
in the proposed project
construction documents, which
shall be reviewed by the City.
prior to issuance of a grading
permit.
City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
_ - June 20, 2012
Page 112 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
Table MMP-1
Mitigation Measure
Colorado
Responsible
= Entity
Avenue Esplanade
Monitor
Project Mitigation Monitoring Program
Action by Mon)for Timing /Frequency
Compliance
Check
Verification
MM NOI -4 The City's
Construction
PCD; DES
Construction plan
Plan check;
PCD
construction contracts for the
contractor
and contract
contract review
proposed project shall require
review
that any construction activity
that would result in the
generation of noise that would
exceed 80 dBA noise levels
when measured at a distance
of 50 feet from the construction
site occur only between the
hours of 10:00 Ann and 3:00 PM,
Monday Through Friday
provided appropriate permits
are issued by the City of Santa
Monica.
o� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
_ June 20, 2012
Page 113 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
RCd�IVIli1VIC
Mfigoiion Measure 'Enfily Monitor Action by Monitor
,/i //�n/�//.c
Timing /Frequency Check
Verfcation
TRANSPORTATION /TRAFFIC
MM TRAF -1 The City shall
City
DBS; Santa
Review and
Prior to issuance
prepare, implement and
Monica Fire
approval of
of grading
maintain a Construction
Department
Construction
permit
Impact Mitigation Plan prior to
(SMFD); Santa
Impact Mitigation
issuance of a building permit to
Monica Police
Plan
adequately manage traffic
Department
during construction and shall
(SMPD)
be designed to:
• Prevent traffic impacts on
the surrounding roadway
network
• Minimize parking impacts
both to public parking and
access to private parking to
the greatest extent
practicable
• Ensure safety for both those
constructing the project
and the surrounding
community
• Prevent substantial truck
traffic through residential
neighborhoods
The Construction Impact
Mitigation Plan shall be subject
to review and approval by the
following City departments:
Public Works Department, Fire,
Planning and Community
Development and Police to
ensure that the Plan has been
a® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 114 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
Table MMP-1
Mitigation Measure
Colorado
Responsible
'Entity
Avenue Esplanade
Monitor
Project Mitigation Monitoring Program
Action by Monitor riming /Frequency
Compliance
Check
Veritication
designed in accordance with
this mitigation measure. This
review shall occur prior to
issuance of grading or building
permits. It shall, at a minimum,
include the following:
Onooinq Requirements
throughout the Duration of
Construction
• A detailed traffic control
plan for work zones shall be
maintained. At a minimum,
this shall include parking
and travel lane
configurations; warning,
regulatory, guide, and
directional signage; and
area sidewalks, bicycle
lanes, and parking lanes.
The plan shall include
specific information
regarding the project's
construction activities that
may disrupt normal
pedestrian and traffic flow
and the measures to
address these disruptions.
Such plans shall be
reviewed and approved by
the Transportation
Management Division prior
to commencement of
construction and
q City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
Page 115 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
Table MMP-I
Mitigation Measure
Colorado
Responsible
::Entity
Avenue Esplanade
Monitor
Project Mitigation Monitoring Program
Actionby Monitor Lming /Frequency
Compriance
Check
Verification
implemented in
accordance with this
approval.
• Work within the public right -.
of -way shall be performed
between 9:00 Ann and
4:00 Pm. This work includes
dirt and demolition material
hauling and construction
material delivery. Work
within the public right -of-
way outside of these hours
shall only be allowed after
the issuance of an after -
hours construction permit.
• Streets and equipment shall
be cleaned in accordance
with'established PW
requirements.
• Trucks shall only travel on a
City- approved construction
route. Truck
queuing /staging shall not
be allowed on Santa
Monica streets. Limited
queuing may occur on the
construction site itself.
• Materials and equipment
shall be minimally visible to
the public; the preferred
location for materials is to
be on site, with a minimum
amount of materials within
- City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
-� June 20, 2012
„_„_,_ Page 116 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
Table MMP-11
Colorado
Avenue Esplanade
Project Mitigation Monitoring Program
Responsible
Compliance
Mitigation Measure
=Enh1y
Monitor
Action by Monitor riming /Frequency -
Check
VenTication
a work area in the public
right -of -way, subject to a
current Use of Public
Property Permit.
• Any requests for work
before or after normal
construction hours within
the public right -of -way shall
be subject to review and
approval through the After
Hours Permit process
administered by the
Building and Safety Division.
• Provision of off - street
parking for construction
workers, which may include
the use of a remote
location with shuttle
transport to the site, if
determined necessary by
the City of Santa Monica.
Project Coordination Elements
That Shall Be Implemented Prior
to Commencement of
Construction
• The City shall advise the
traveling public of
impending construction
activities (e.g., information
signs, portable message
signs, media
isting /notification, and
implementation of an
®� City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
,_. Page 117 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
Table MMP-1
Miligation Measure
Colorado
Responsible
i Entity
Avenue Esplanade
Monitor
Project Mitigation Monitoring Program
Acfion by Monitor - IIming /Frequency:
Compliance
Check
Ver5cation '
approved traffic control
plan).
• The City shall obtain a Use
of Public Property Permit,
Excavation Permit, Sewer
Permit, or Oversize Load
Permit, as well as any
Caltrons permits required,
for any construction work
requiring encroachment
into public rights -of -way,
detours, or any other work
within the public right -cf-
way.
• The City shall provide timely
notification of construction
schedules to all affected
agencies (e.g., Big Blue Bus,
Police Department, Fire
Department, Public Works
Department, and Planning
and Community
Development Department)
and to all owners and
residential and commercial
tenants of property within a
radius of 500 feet.
• The City shall coordinate
construction work with
affected agencies in
advance of start of work.
Approvals may take up to
two weeks per each
e® City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
June 20, 2012
.....u.. Page 118 of 119
Colorado Avenue Esplanade Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Colorado Avenue Esplanade Project
Table MMP-111
Mitigation Measure
Colorado
Responsible
Entity
Avenue Esplanade
Monitor
Project Mitigation Monitoring Program
Action by Monitor ' riming /Frequency;
Compliance
Check
Vey cation
submittal.
The City shall obtain
Transportation Management
Division approval of any haul
routes for earth, concrete, or
construction materials and
equipment hauling.
o City of Santa Monica Initial Study /Mitigated Negative Declaration
- June 20, 2072
._..� Page 119 of 119
Adopted and approved this 19th day of March, 2013.
w--
Pam O'Connor, Mayor
I, Sarah P. Gorman, City Clerk of the City of Santa Monica, do hereby certify that
the foregoing Resolution No. 10740 (CCS) was duly adopted at a meeting of the Santa
Monica City Council held on the 19th day of March, 2013, by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers: Holbrook, Davis, McKeown, Vazquez, Winterer
Mayor O'Connor, Mayor Pro Tern O'Day
NOES: Councilmembers: None
ABSENT: Councilmembers: None
ATTEST:
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Sarah P. Gorman, City Clerk