HomeMy WebLinkAboutAttachmt 2 Reso Rec CC Appv CEQA Addendum
RESo.LUTION NO.. 06 -
A RESo.LUTION o.F THE PLANNING Co.MMISSION o.F THE CITY o.F DUBLIN
RECo.MMENDING THAT THE CITY Co.UNCIL ADo.PT A CEQA ADDENDUM Fo.R A
STAGE I DEVELo.PMENT PLAN AMENDMENT, STAGE 2 PLANNED DEVELo.PMENT
REZo.NE AND SITE DEVELo.PMENT REVIEW Fo.R THE GRAFTo.N ST A TIo.N SHo.PPING
CENTER Lo.CATED AT THE So.UTHWEST Co.RNER o.F DUBLIN Bo.ULEV ARD AND
GRAFTo.N STREET AND Bo.RDERED BY DUBLIN Bo.ULEV ARD AND No.RTHSIDE DRIVE
IN AREA H o.F DUBLIN RANCH (APN 985-0036-009)
P A 05-030
WHEREAS, James Tong, on behalf of Chang Su-O-Lin, H. Yao Lin and H. Lien Lin, has
requested a Stage I Development Plan Amendment, Stage 2 Planned Development Rezone,
Development Agreement and Site Development Review for the Grafton Station Shopping Center
located in a portion of Dublin Ranch Planning Area H, which applications are on file in the Planning
Division. These applications are collectively referred to herein as "the Project" or "Grafton Station";
and
WHEREAS, Grafton Station consists of approximately 29.2 acres encompassing a portion of
Dublin Ranch Planning Area H located at the southwest comer of Dublin Boulevard and Grafton Street
and bordered by Dublin Boulevard to the north and Northside Drive to the south, in the Eastern Dublin
Specific Plan area; and
WHEREAS, the Project is within the General Plan Eastern Extended Planning Area and the
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan area, for which a Program Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was certified
pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) by the City Council by Resolution No. 51-
93 and the Addenda dated May 4,1993 and August 22,1994 (the "Eastern Dublin EIR") (SCH 91103064).
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified significant unavoidable impacts from development of the Eastern
Dublin area, some of which would apply to the Project; and
WHEREAS, the Project area is located in a portion of Dublin Ranch Planning Area H for which
the City Council previously approved a Mitigated Negative Declaration on February 15, 2000, entitled and
hereinafter referred to as the "1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration" (Resolution No. 34-00 incorporated
herein by reference); and
WHEREAS, the City Council previously approved a General Plan/Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
Amendment for Area H on March 7, 2000 (Resolution No. 35-00 incorporated herein by reference); and
WHEREAS, the City Council previously adopted an Ordinance approving a Stage I Development
Plan on March 21, 2000 for Dublin Ranch Planning Area H (Ordinance No. 6-00, incorporated herein by
reference); and
WHEREAS, the City prepared an Initial Study to determine if additional review of the current
Project was required pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15162. The Initial Study, dated June 2005 is
attached as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference. Based on the Initial Study, the City prepared
an Addendum dated June 2006 (attached as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference) describing
ATTACHMENT 2
minor changes from the previous approvals and finding that the impacts of the current Project have been
adequately addressed in the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration, all of which
documents are incorporated herein by reference; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission did hold a properly noticed public hearing on the Project
on July 25, 2006; and
WHEREAS, a Staff Report dated July 25, 2006 was submitted to the Planning Commission
analyzing the Project and recommending approval of the CEQA Addendum and applications; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission considered the Addendum before making a
recommendation on the Project. The Planning Commission further used their independent judgment and
considered all reports, recommendations and testimony before taking action on the Project.
No.W, THEREFo.RE BE IT RESo.L VED that the foregoing recitals are true and correct and
made a part ofthis resolution.
BE IT FURTHER RESo.L VED that the Planning Commission recommends that the City
Council adopt the CEQA Addendum, attached hereto as Exhibit A, for Grafton Station pursuant to CEQA
Guidelines section 15164.
PASSED, APPRo.VED AND ADo.PTED this 25th day of July 2006 by the following vote:
AYES:
No.ES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Planning Commission Chair
ATTEST:
Planning Manager
G:\PA#\2005\05-030 Lowe's\PC PH\CEQA addendum Reso.DOC
Lead Agency:
ADDENDUM
TO THE
EASTERN DUBLIN SPECIFIC PLAN EIR
FOR THE
GRAFTON STATION AREA H PROJECT
City of Dublin
100 Civic Plaza
Dublin, CA 94568
JUNE 2006
Exhibit A
Table of Contents
Introduction.................................................................................................................. ................... 1
CEQA.............................................................................................................................................. 2
Initial Study... ..... .... .... ....... ..... ........... ..... ....... ....... ....... ..... ..... ... ........ ..... ..... ....... ..... ..... ... ...... ... ... ..... 5
Evaluation of Environmental Impacts ............................................................................................ 7
I. AESTHETICS . ...........................................................................................................................7
II. AGRICULTURE RESOURCES ............................................................................................7
III. AIR QUALITY ........................................................................................................................ 7
IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ............................................................................................... 8
V. CULTURAL RESOURCES.....................................................................................................9
VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS ........................................................................................................9
VII. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS............................................................... 10
VIII. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY...................................................................... II
IX. LAND USE AND PLANNING.............................................................................................12
X. MINERAL RESOURCES ......................................................................................................13
XI. NOISE...................................................................................... ............................................... 13
XII. POPULATION AND HOUSING .......................................................................................14
XIII. PUBLIC SERVICES ................................................ .......................................................... 14
XIV. RECREATION ...................................................................................................................15
XV. TRANSPORTA TION/TRAFFIC ......................................................................................15
XVI. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SySTEMS.......................................................................... 16
XVII. MANDA TORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE ........................................................ 17
Discussion of Checklist....................................... ..... ............. ........ ........ ............................... ......... 18
CEQA Addendum to Dublin Ranch Area H
P A 05-030
May 30, 2006
Introduction
On May 10,1993, the Dublin City Council adopted Resolution No. 51-93, certifying an
Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan (Eastern Dublin EIR, SCH #91103064). The certified EIR
consisted of a Draft EIR and Responses to Comments bound volumes, as well as an
Addendum dated May 4, 1999, assessing a reduced development and project alternative.
The City Council adopted Resolution No. 53-93 approving a General Plan Amendment
and a Specific Plan for the reduced area alternative on May 10,1993. On August 22,
1994, the City Council adopted a second Addendum updating wastewater disposal plans
for Eastern Dublin. For identified impacts that could not be mitigated to a less than
significant level, the City Council adopted a Statement of Overriding Considerations. All
previously adopted mitigation measures for development in Eastern Dublin, that are
applicable to this Project, continue to apply to the proposed project. The Eastern Dublin
EIR is incorporated herein by reference.
The Eastern Dublin EIR evaluated the potential environmental effects of urbanizing
Eastern Dublin over a 20 to 30 year period. Since certification ofthe EIR, many
implementing projects such as Dublin Ranch have been proposed, relying to various
degrees on the Program EIR. A subsequent Mitigated Negative Declaration was later
approved for Planning Area H of Dublin Ranch in 2000 (SCH #99112040, PA 98-070)
adopted by Dublin City Council Resolution No. 34-00 on February 15, 2000.
The City of Dublin approved development of Planning Area H on February 15,2000. The
approvals included a General Plan/Specific Plan Amendment and Planned Development
rezoning/Stage 1 Development Plan for a combination of commercial and residential
development.
A Mitigated Negative Declaration was also adopted by the Dublin City Council
Resolution No. 34-00 on February 15, 2000 for Dublin Ranch Planning Area H, 2000
(SCH #99112040, PA 98-070). This project included an amendment to the Dublin
General Plan and Eastern Dublin Specific Plan to amend the land use designation for a
10.5 acre parcel (which lies within the project area for this project) to allow campus
office and general commercial. The previous land use designation, General Commercial,
was revised to allow a mix of uses, including General Commercial/Campus Office, to
meet changing market conditions. The City Council Resolution No. 34-00 contained
findings that the Project would have impacts associated with the development of the
property that would be mitigated to a less than significant level with incorporation ofthe
mitigation measures into the project.
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin
June 2006
Pro; ect
The applicant has requested approval of an amendment to the Stage 1 Development Plan.
The amendment is required to modify the gross acres stated in the development plan for
this site. The increase is due to the re-alignment of Dublin Boulevard and a more accurate
measurement of the site. The increase in gross floor area will also allow for an increase in
floor area in order to maintain the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) which has been established for
the site in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan (.25). The actual gross acreage of the site is
29.2 acres which means that 318,000 square feet of commercial space can be constructed
on the site with a .25 FAR.
Although the proposal would increase the amount of commercial square footage on the
site by 25,059 square feet (over what was estimated in the Stage I Development Plan),
this number is consistent with the square footage estimated for general commercial in the
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan for the Tassajara Gateway subarea, of which this site is part
of.
CEOA
The State CEQA Guidelines provide guidance on the appropriate document for revisions
to a previously certified EIR. Section 15162 requires the preparation of a Subsequent EIR
if the lead agency determines, on the basis of substantial evidence in the light of the
whole record, one or more of the following:
a) Are there substantial changes to the Project involving new or more severe
significant impacts? There are no substantial changes to the Project analyzed in
the Eastern Dublin EIR or the Mitigated Negative Declaration for Planning Area
H. The Project proposes to amend the Stage 1 Development Plan to reflect the
actual gross acreage on the site. This would increase the amount of square footage
that could be built on the property, however, the project would be built at an FAR
of .25 which was studied in the Eastern Dublin EIR and the Mitigated Negative
Declaration and the total amount of square footage that would be constructed is
consistent with the overall types ofland uses and densities allowed in the Dublin
General Plan and the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan.
The Eastern Dublin EIR studied the development potential for the Tassajara
Gateway subarea. The increase in square footage on the project site will fall
within the development potential which was studied in the Eastern Dublin EIR.
The increase in square footage will not reduce the square footage available to the
Dublin Land Company parcel, based on an FAR of .25 (which is the FAR
established in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan).
b) Are there substantial changes in the conditions which the Project is undertaken
involving new or more significant impacts? There are no substantial changes in
the conditions in the Eastern Dublin EIR or the 1999 Mitigated Negative
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 2
June 2006
Declaration. The Project will be required to adhere to all ofthe mitigation
measures in both documents which apply to this Project.
c) Is there new information of substantial importance, which was not known at the
time of the previous EIR that shows the Project will have a significant effect not
addressed in the previous EIR; or previous effects are more severe; or, previously
infeasible mitigation measures are now feasible but the applicant declined to
adopt them; or mitigation measures considerably differentfrom those in the
previous EIR would substantially reduce significant effects but the applicant
declines to adopt them? There is no new information showing a new or more
significant effect. The proposed Project would be consistent with the Eastern
Dublin Specific Plan and the Eastern Dublin EIR mitigation measures and the
mitigation measures included in the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration.
d) If no subsequent EIR level review is required, should a subsequent negative
declaration be prepared? No additional review is required based on the Initial
Study. The Initial Study concluded that the Project will not create any significant
impacts other than those identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 1999
Mitigated Negative Declaration.
As discussed above, none of the conditions described in the CEQA Guidelines Section
15162 has occurred. Under such circumstances, Section 15164 requires the lead agency
to prepare an addendum to a previously certified EIR if some changes or additions are
necessary but none of the conditions described in Section 15162 calling for preparation of
a subsequent EIR have occurred. An addendum to be prepared as described below:
a) The lead agency or responsible agency shall prepare an addendum to a
previously certified EIR if some changes or additions are necessary but none of
the conditions described in Section 15162 calling for preparation of a
subsequent EIR have occurred.
b) An addendum to an adopted negative declaration may be prepared if only
minor technical changes or additions are necessary or none ofthe conditions
described in Section 15162 calling for the preparation of a subsequent EIR or
negative declaration have occurred.
c) An addendum need not be circulated for public review but can be included
in or attached to the final EIR or adopted negative declaration.
d) The decision making body shall consider the addendum with the final EIR
or adopted negative declaration prior to making a decision on the project.
e) A brief explanation of the decision not to prepare a subsequent EIR pursuant
to Section 15162 should be included in an addendum to an EIR, the lead
agency's findings on the project, or elsewhere in the record. The explanation
must be supported by substantial evidence.
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 3
June 2006
The City of Dublin has determined that an Addendum is the appropriate CEQA review
for the proposed Project. Prior to making this determination, the City reviewed the
Eastern Dublin EIR and the previous Mitigated Negative Declaration for Planning Area
H to determine if any further environmental review was required for the proposed Site
Development Review and Stage I Development Plan amendment and Stage 2 Planned
Development rezoning.
This Addendum is adopted pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15164 based on the
environmental checklist. The Addendum reviews the proposed additional square footage
on the site, over what was reviewed in the Stage 1 Development Plan and 1999 Mitigated
Negative Declaration. Through the adoption ofthis Addendum, the City has determined
that the proposed changes do not require a subsequent EIR or negative declaration under
Section 15162 of the CEQA Guidelines. The City further determines that the Eastern
Dublin EIR and the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration adequately address the
potential environmental impacts of the proposed project.
Pursuant to Section 15164 ofthe CEQA Guidelines, the Addendum does not need to be
circulated for public review. The environmental document will be considered with the
prior environmental documents before making a decision on this project.
The attached Initial Study, referenced Eastern Dublin EIR and the 1999 Mitigated
Negative Declaration are all available for review in the Community development
Department located in the Dublin City Hall at 100 Civic Plaza in Dublin.
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 4
June 2006
Initial Study
1. Project title: Grafton Station
2. Lead agency name and address: City of Dublin
100 Civic Plaza
Dublin, CA 94588
3. Contact person and phone number: Erica Fraser, Senior Planner, City of Dublin
Planning Division (925) 833-6610
4. Project location: North of Interstate 580, south of Dublin
Boulevard and east of Tassajara Road
5. Assessors Parcel Number(s):
985-0036-009
6. Project sponsor's name and address: Dave Chadbourne
MacKay and Somps
5142 Franklin Drive Suite B
Pleasanton, CA 94588
7. General Plan Designations: General Commercial and General
Commercial/Campus Office
8. Zoning: PD (Planned Development) District
9. Specific Plan Designation: General Commercial and General
Commercial/Campus Office
10. Description of project:
The Applicants have proposed amendment to the Stage I Development Plan to
increase the approved square footage for the property from 292,941 square feet to
318,000 square feet, while maintaining a .25 Floor Area Ratio for a retail shopping
center. The development will be constructed on 29.2 gross acres which is larger than
the acreage estimated by the Stage 1 Development Plan which estimated that the
gross acreage of the site was 26.9 acres (a difference of2.3 acres). The increase in
gross floor area is due to the re-alignment of Dublin Boulevard, the inclusion of half
ofthe street right-of way of North side Drive and a more accurate measurement of the
parcels.
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 5
June 2006
The Project is consistent with the General Commercial and General Commercial/Campus
Office land use designations of the General Plan and Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. The
purpose ofthis project (an amendment to the Stage I Planned Development Zoning) is to
construct a project which has an FAR of .25 which is the established FAR for this
property. The Project will result in a commercial center which is 318,000 square feet in
size, which is approximately 25,000 square feet larger than originally studied for this
property. Although the Project will result in an increase of25,059 square feet of
commercial floor area, the total amount of floor area proposed has been the subject of
prior CEQA reviews, through the 1993 Eastern Dublin EIR with mitigation measures. All
of the mitigation measures in the 1993 EIR continue to apply to this property including
the Project. For the significant and unavoidable impacts, the City adopted a Statement of
Overriding Considerations (Resolution 53-93) as part of the 1993 Eastern Dublin EIR.
This Project also lies within Dublin Ranch Area H. In 1999, the City adopted a Mitigated
Negative Declaration for the proposed Project which reviewed development on the
property and looked at the approved conditions for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan area.
This amendment to the Stage 1 PD is also consistent with the Mitigated Negative
Declaration adopted for Dublin Ranch Area H.
11. Surrounding land uses and setting:
The project site is located in an area referred to as Planning Area H in Dublin Ranch
within the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan Area. The subject property is approximately 29.2
gross acres. The subject property is located south of Dublin Boulevard, north ofI-580 and
Northside Drive. The subject property is also located within the Tassajara Gateway
subarea in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan.
12. o.ther public agencies whose approval is required: (e.g., permits, financing
approval, or participation agreement.)
Tentative and Final Subdivision Maps (City of Dublin)
Site Development Review (City of Dublin)
Grading and Building Permits (City of Dublin)
Sewer and Water Connections (DSRSD)
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 6
June 2006
Evaluation of Environmental Impacts
The source of determination is listed in parenthesis. See listing of sources used to determine each potential
impact at the end of the checklist. A full discussion of each item is found following the checklist.
I. AESTHETICS -- Would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista?
(Source: 2,5)
b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but
not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic
buildings within a state scenic highway? (Source: 2,5)
c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or
quality of the site and its surroundings? (Source: 2,5)
d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which
would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area?
(Source: 2,3,5)
II. AGRICULTURE RESo.URCES - 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 non-agricultural use? (Source: 1,2 )
b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a
Williamson Act contract? (Source: 1,2,3)
c) Involve other changes in the existing environment
which, due to their location or nature, could result in
conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use? (Source:
1,2)
III. AIR QUALITY - Would the project:
a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significanl Impact
Impact with Impacl
Miligalion
Incornoralion
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
June 2006
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 7
applicable air quality plan? (Source: 2,3)
b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute
substantially to an existing or projected air quality
violation? (Source: 2,3)
c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase
of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is
non-attainment under an applicable federal or state
ambient air quality standard (including releasing
emissions which exceed quantitative thresholds for
ozone precursors)? (Source: 2,3)
d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant
concentrations? (Source: 2)
e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial
number of people? (Source: 2)
IV. BIOLo.GICAL RESo.URCES -Would the
proj ect:
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 ofFish and Game or U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service? (Source: 2,3)
b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat
or other sensitive natural community identified in local or
regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California
Department ofFish and Game or US Fish and Wildlife
Service? (Source: 2,3)
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? (Source: 2,3)
Potenlially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact wilh Impact
Mitigation
Incorporation
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 8
June 2006
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?
(Source: 2,3)
e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting
biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or
ordinance? (Source: 2,3,8)
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? (Source: 2,3)
V. CULTURAL RESo.URCES -- Would the project:
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance
of a historical resource as defined in S 15064.5?
(Source: 2,3)
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance
of an archaeological resource pursuant to S 15064.5?
(Source: 2,3)
c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological
resource or site or unique geologic feature? (Source: 2,3)
d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred
outside of formal cemeteries? (Source: 2,3)
VI. GEo.Lo.GY AND So.ILS -- Would the project:
a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial
adverse effects, including the risk ofloss, 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
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significanl Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impacl
Mitigation
Incorooration
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 9
JlUle 2006
Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42.
(Source: 3)
ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? (Source: 3)
iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction?
(Source: 3)
iv) Landslides? (Source: 3)
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil?
(Source: 3)
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?
(Source: 3)
d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-8
of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial
risks to life or property? (Source: 3)
e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of
septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal systems
where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste
water? (Source: 3)
VII. HAZARDS AND HAZARDo.US 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? (Source: 3,4)
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? (Source: 3)
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impact
Mitigation
lncomoration
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 10
June 2006
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutel
hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-
quarter mile of an existing or proposed school?
(Source: 3)
d) Be located on a site which 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? (Source: 3)
e) For a project located within an airport land use plan
or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two
miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the
project result in a safety hazard for people residing or
working in the project area? (Source: 3)
f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip,
would the project result in a safety hazard for people
residing or working in the project area? (Source: 1,3)
g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with
an adopted emergency response plan or emergency
evacuation plan? (Source: 1,2)
h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss,
injury or death involving wildland fires, including where
wildlands are adj acent to urbanized areas or where
residences are intermixed with wildlands? (Source: 1,2)
VIII. HYDROLo.GY AND WATER QUALITY -
Would the project:
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge
requirements? (Source: 2,3)
b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere
substantially with groundwater recharge such that there
would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of
the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production
Potenlially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact wiIh Impacl
Mitigation
Incorooration
X
y
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin II
June 2006
rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level
which would not support existing land uses or planned
uses for which permits have been granted)? (Source: 2,3)
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 which would
result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site?
(Source: 3)
d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern ofthe
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 which would
result in flooding on- or off-site? (Source: 3)
e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed
the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage
systems or provide substantial additional sources of
polluted runoff! (Source: 2,3)
t) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality?
(Source: 2,3)
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?
(Source: 2,4,7)
h) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures
which would impede or redirect flood flows? (Source: 2,3)
i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk ofloss,
injury or death involving flooding, including flooding as a
result ofthe failure of a levee or dam? (Source: 3,7)
j) Expose people or structures to a significant risk ofloss,
injury or death involving inundation by seiche, tsunami, or
(Source: 3)
IX. LAND USE AND PLANNING - Would the project:
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impacl
Mitigation
Incomoration
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
June 2006
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 12
a) Physically divide an established community?
(Source: 2,5)
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? (Source: 2)
c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan
or natural community conservation plan? (Source: 1,2)
X. MINERAL RESo.URCES -- 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 ofthe state? (Source: 2)
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?
(Source: 2)
XI. NOISE - Would the project result in:
a) 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? (Source: 2,3)
b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive
groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels?
(Source: 2,3)
c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise
levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without
the project? (Source: 2,3)
d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in
ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impacl with Impact
Mitigation
Incomoration
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 13
June 2006
existing without the project? (Source: 2,3)
e) For a project located within an airport land use plan
or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two
miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the
project expose people residing or working in the project
area to excessive noise levels? (Source: 1,2,3)
f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip,
would the project expose people residing or working in
the project area to excessive noise levels? (Source: 1,2,3)
XII. POPULATION AND 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)? (Source: 1,2)
b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing,
necessitating the construction of replacement housing
elsewhere? (Source: 2)
c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating
the construction of replacement housing elsewhere?
(Source: 2)
XIII. PUBLIC SERVICES--
a) Would the project result in substantial adverse
physical impacts associated with the provision of new or
physically altered governmental facilities, need for new
or 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 (Source: 2,3)
Fire Protection?
Police Protection?
Schools?
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impacl wiIh Impact
Mitigation
Incorporation
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 14
June 2006
Parks?
Other Public Facilities?
XIV. RECREATIo.N--
a) Would the project 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? (Source: 2)
b) Does the project include recreational facilities or
require the construction or expansion of recreational
facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on
the environment? (Source: 2)
XV. TRANSPo.RTATIo.N/TRAFFIC-
Would the project:
a) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in
relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of the
street system (i.e., result in a substantial increase in either
the number of vehicle trips, the volume to capacity ratio
on roads, or congestion at intersections)? (Source: 1,2,3)
b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of
service standard established by the county congestion
management agency for designated roads or highways?
(Source: 1,2,3)
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 risks? (Source: 1,2,3)
d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature
(e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or
incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? (Source: 1,2,3,4)
e) Result in inadequate emergency access? (Source: 1,2,3,4
f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? (Source: 1,2,3,4)
Polenlially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impacl
Impact with Impact
Miligalion
Incomoration
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 15
June 2006
g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs
supporting alternative transportation (e.g., bus turnouts,
bicycle racks)? (Source: 1,2,3,4)
XVI. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS --
Would the project:
a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements ofthe
applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board?
(Source: 2,3)
b) Require or result in the construction of new water or
wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing
facilities, the construction of which could cause
significant environmental effects? (Source: 2,3)
c) Require or result in the construction of new storm
water drainage facilities or expansion of existing
facilities, the construction of which could cause
significant environmental effects? (Source: 2,3)
d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the
project from existing entitlements and resources, or are
new or expanded entitlements needed? (Source: 2,3)
e) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment
provider which 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? (Source: 2,3)
f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted
capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste
disposal needs? (Source: 2,3)
g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and
regulations related to solid waste? (Source: 2,3)
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significanl Significant Significant Impact
Impact with Impacl
Miligalion
Incorporation
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 16
June 2006
p
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact wilh Impact
Mitigation
Incornoration
XVII. MANDATo.RY FINDINGS o.F SIGNIFICANCE
X
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?
X
c) 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
rojects, and the effects of probable future projects)?
X
c) Does the project have environmental effects
hich will cause substantial adverse effects on
uman beings, either directly or indirectly?
w
h
Sources used to determine potential environmental impacts:
1. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan/General Plan (1994)
2. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan/General Plan EIR (1994)
3. Dublin Ranch Area H Mitigated Negative Declaration (1999)
4. Project Plans
5. Site Visit
6. Letter from Berlogar Geotechnical Consultants dated March 6, 2006
7. Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill Determination Document from FEMA (2004)
8. Other Source.
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 17
June 2006
Discussion of Checklist
Legend
PS:
LS/M:
LS:
NI:
Potentially Significant
Less Than Significant After Mitigation
Less Than Significant Impact
No Impact
The following information is provided for the environmental checklist. The discussions are
summary only, the proper EIR and MND should be consulted for a full discussion of all of
the impacts and mitigation measures. The discussion also examine whether the additional
square footage of the commercial center would require preparation of a subsequent EIR,
MND, or NO pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15162. Because the Project does not
propose a new development or square footage beyond what was originally studied for the
Tassajara Gateway subarea of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, most impacts area
unchanged for the Project. Finally, many of the prior impacts related to biology, soils,
drainage and other similar terrain-related impacts no longer apply to the Project Area since
the area has previously been rough graded.
I. Aesthetics
The project area is vacant and is relatively flat. The Eastern Dublin EIR classifies the project
site as "valley grasslands." The Project site is located adjacent to 1-580 and is located south
of Dublin Boulevard which is one of the City's major thoroughfares.
The Eastern Dublin EIR contains a number of Mitigation Measures that are applicable to this
project to assist in reducing aesthetic impacts to a less than significant level. The proposed
project will not result in any new impacts other than those identified in the 1999 Mitigated
Negative Declaration.
The 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration identified supplemental Mitigation Measure 1 that
requires pole mounted streetlights to be equipped with cut-off lenses and oriented down
toward interior streets to minimize unwanted glare spillover. Building security lights and all
other lights shall also be directed downwards.
Proiect Impacts
a) Have a substantial adverse impact on a scenic vista? LS. Approval and
construction ofthe proposed project would convert an existing vacant field, which
was historically used for agricultural uses, to a commercial development. This
impact was addressed in the Eastern Dublin EIR (Impact 3.8/F) and it was
determined that no measures would reduce this impact to a less than significant
level. The EIR concluded that this impact would be a potentially significant
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 18
June 2006
irreversible change and a Statement of Overriding Considerations has been
approved for this impact.
b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including state scenic highway? NI. The
project site is located adjacent to the 1-580 freeway which is not a state scenic
highway.
c) Substantially degrade existing visual character or the quality of the site? LS. This
impact was addressed in the Eastern Dublin EIR and a Statement of Overriding
Considerations.
d) Create light or glare? LS. This impact was addressed in the 1999 Mitigated
Negative Declaration. The Mitigated Negative Declaration determined that any
development on this project site could create undue glare on adjacent properties.
Mitigation Measure I was incorporated into the project which reduced this impact
to a less than significant level. Mitigation Measure 1 will also apply to the new
project.
Overall, no additional impacts to aesthetics (as identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR or the
1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration) are expected to occur as a result ofthis Project.
II. Agricultural Resources
The Eastern Dublin EIR notes that the project site does not have soils or prime or unique
farmland. Additionally, the project site is not currently used for agricultural purposes and is
not emolled in the Williamson Act. The Eastern Dublin EIR determined that the loss of
agricultural land was significant and unavoidable. A Statement of Overriding Considerations
was adopted to mitigate this impact to a less than significant level.
Project Impacts
a-c) Convert Prime Farmland, conflict with agricultural zoning or involve other
changes which could result in conversion of farmland to a non-agricultural use?
NI. As discussed above, although the site has been historically used for agricultural
purposes, the site is currently vacant and is not considered prime farmland.
No additional impacts to agricultural resources (as identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR or the
1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration) are expected to occur as a result of this Project.
III. Air Quality
Dublin is located in the Tri- Valley Air Basin. Within the Basin, state and federal standards
for nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide and lead are met. Standards for other airborne pollutants,
including ozone, carbon monoxide and suspended particulate matter (PM-I 0) are not met in
at least a portion of the Basin.
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 19
June 2006
Mitigation Measures 3.11/1.0 through 3.11/13.0 were included in the Eastern Dublin EIR to
assist in reducing long-term and short-term air quality impacts. Impacts related to emissions
from construction vehicles, mobile source emission of reactive organic gasses and nitrogen
dioxide and stationary source emissions were identified as significant and unavoidable and a
Statement of Overriding Conditioners were adopted by the City of Dublin for those impacts.
The 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration did not identify any new or supplemental impacts
or mitigation measures from the Eastern Dublin EIR related to air quality.
Project Impacts
a) Would the project conflict or obstruct implementation of an air quality plan? LS.
The proposed project would not conflict with the local Clean Air Plan adopted by
the Bay Area Air Quality management District, since the proposed Project
(proposed square footage of non-residential development) has been included in the
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan.
b) Would the project violate any air quality standards? LS. During the construction of
the building and site improvements could result in exceedance of air quality
standards due to dust and equipment emissions (Impact 3.lIA and B). The Project
will be required to conform to Mitigation Measures 3.11/1.0 - 3.11/4.0. A
Statement of Overriding Considerations was also adopted in the Eastern Dublin EIR
because the EIR assumed that air quality impacts as a result of construction
equipment could not be reduced to a less than significant impact.
Similarly, potential air quality impacts related to mobile source emission of
Reactive Organic Gasses and Nitrogen Oxide, both precursor indicators of smog,
and stationary source emission were found to exceed regional air quality standards
even with mitigation measures and were included in the Statement of Overriding
Considerations (Eastern Dublin EIR Impacts 3.11/C and 3.11/E).
c) Would the project result in cumulatively considerable air pollutants? LS. The
Eastern Dublin EIR identifies Mobile Source Emissions and Stationary Source
Emissions as significant irreversible impacts. These impacts are typically based on
vehicular emission from future traffic as well as stationary sources. A Statement of
Overriding Considerations was adopted for long-term impacts which has reduced
this impact to a less than significant level.
d) Would the project expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant
concentrations? NI. The proposed Project includes commercial and some office
uses, which are not considered sensitive receptors. The Project is located near some
residential uses, however, the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration determined that
non-residential development in Area H would not create any impacts on these
residential uses.
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 20
June 2006
e) Would the project create objectionable odors? NI. The proposed Project includes
typical retail, office and restaurant uses. The proposed type of development was
studied in the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration and it was determined that
commercial development would not create objectionable odors.
Overall, no additional impacts to air quality (as identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR or the
1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration) are expected to occur as a result of this Project.
IV. Biological Resources
The Eastern Dublin EIR indicates that the Project area is dominated by non-native grassland
and dryland-farmed (grain crops) habitats. A detailed biological investigation was completed
by H.T. Harvey and Associates in conjunction with the 1999 Mitigated Negative declaration.
A number of mitigation measures (Mitigation 3.7/1.0 to 3.7/28.0) are included in the Eastern
Dublin EIR to reduce impacts to a less than significant level, except for the loss of
botanically sensitive habitat.
Plants
Based on the history of cultivation of Planning Area H, in which the subject site is located,
most of the 23 special-status plant species identified as potentially occurring in the project
area are not expected to be present. Previous agricultural activities, including livestock
grazing and crop production have degraded potential habitat for these species, and existing
predominant plant species include invasive forbs and grasses indicative of disturbed
habitants. Only one special-status plant species has been observed in Planning Area H.
However, the San Joaquin spearscale (Atriplex joaquinana) has been observed in similar
habitat on the parcel immediately east of Area H and it may occur in Area H as well.
Animals
The Eastern Dublin EIR and the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration provide background
information on the potential for special-status and sensitive animals species that could
potentially occur on the Project site. With the permitted grading on the Project site, many of
these species are no longer expected to occur on the site.
Wetlands
The 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration identified approximately 5.33 acres of wetlands in
Planning Area H, a portion of which were on the subject property. In 2003, the United States
Army Corps of Engineers issued a Section 404 Permit to the owners of the property. The
wetlands area was then filled in according to the permit.
Project Impacts
a) Would the Project have a substantial adverse impact on a candidate, sensitive or
special status species? LS. In accordance with the permit conditions of the United
States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) wetland fill permit (dated May 23, 2006)
and the Regional Water Quality Control Board Water Quality Certification Order
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 21
June 2006
(dated April 16, 2003) the mitigation measures addressing impacts on candidate,
sensitive or special status species have already been or are currently being
implemented. As mentioned above, the site has already been filled in and graded in
accordance with the permits.
b,c) Would the Project have a substantial adverse impact on riparian habitat or
federally protected wetlands? LS. A portion of the Project site was determined to
have farmed wetlands, which is a type of Waters of the United States found on
agricultural lands. In accordance with the approval conditions of the USACE
wetland fill permit and Regional Water Quality Control Board Water Quality
Certification Order mitigation measures addressing impacts on candidate, sensitive
or special status species have already been or are currently being implemented.
d) Would the Project interfere with movement of native fish or wildlife species? NI.
The farmland wetlands have been filled in with the required permits. No significant
wildlife movement occurs on or across the site and therefore it is not anticipated
that the development will interfere with such actions.
e,f) Would the Project conflict with local policies or ordinances protecting biological
resources or any adopted Habitat Conservation Plans or Natural Community
Conservation Plans? NI. No significant trees are present on the site and there are no
trees on the site which meet the requirements for protection under the City's
Heritage Tree Ordinance. The site is not located within the boundaries of any
Habitat Conservation Plan.
The increase in the amount of square footage of commercial development on the site will not
impact the overall biological resources on the site as reviewed in the 1999 Mitigated
Negative Declaration because the Declaration assumed full development of the site. Overall,
no impacts to biological resources, not previously identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR or the
1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration for Area H, are expected to occur as a result of this
Project. The project will be required to follow Mitigation Measures 2 and 3 of the 1999
Mitigated Negative Declaration, as well as the mitigation measures established in the Eastern
Dublin EIR.
V. Cultural Resources
Eastern Dublin was surveyed in 1988 as part of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan and Eastern
Dublin EIR. In May of 1999 the project area was surveyed by Holman and Associates in
conjunction with the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration. No potentially significant
prehistoric or archeological materials or indicators were found on the property during the
study.
The 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration incorporated Mitigation Measure 4 which requires
the Project to include a contingency plan in the event that archeological or paleontological
resources are found on the site.
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 22
June 2006
Project Impacts
a) Would the Project cause substantial adverse changes to significant historic
resources? NI. The Project site is vacant and no historic resources have been found
the site.
b, c) Would the Project cause a substantial adverse change in the significant or an
archeological resource or destroy a paleontological resource or unique geological
feature? NI. The site is relatively flat and does not have any unique geological
features. The Eastern Dublin EIR identified several potential significant
archeological resources in Eastern Dublin. There is a remote possibility that
archeological or paleontological resources could be found on the site during
construction and/or grading. The 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration incorporated
Mitigation Measure 4 which requires the Project to include a contingency plan in
the event that archeological or paleontological resources are found on the site. This
Mitigation Measure will be included in the revised project and the proposed Project
will not change the impacts identified in the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration.
d) Would the Project disturb any human remains? LS. There is a remote possibility
that human remains could be uncovered on the site during construction. The 1999
Mitigated Negative Declaration required that the Project adhere to Mitigation
Measure 4 to reduce these potential impacts to a less than significant level.
The proposed Project will not result in any additional impacts to Cultural Resources other
than those identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR and Mitigation Measure 4 in the 1999
Mitigated Negative Declaration.
IV. Geology and Soils
The information in this section is based on preliminary geotechnical reports cited in the 1999
Mitigated Negative Declaration and the letter by Berlogar Geotechnical Consultants (dated
March 6, 2006). The reports and letter are on file with the City of Dublin.
Mitigation Measures 3.6/1.0 - 3.6/2.0 and 3.6/6.0 - 3.6/8.0 ofthe Eastern Dublin EIR were
adopted to reduce Impacts 3.6/A through 3.6/L to less than significant impacts, with the
exception for impact 3.6/B regarding ground shaking which was significant and unavoidable
(a Statement of Overriding Considerations was adopted for this impact). No additional
mitigation measures were included in the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration.
Seismic
The Project area is part of the San Francisco Bay Area, a seismically active region. The
Eastern Dublin EIR notes the presence of several nearby significant faults including the
Calaveras Fault, Greenville Fault, Hayward Fault and the San Andreas Fault. The likelihood
of a major seismic event on one or more of these faults in the near future is believed to be
high. However, the site is not part of a Special Study Zone as identified by the State of
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 23
June 2006
California. Please refer to the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration for more background
information.
Site Soils
Soils on the site are characterized as colluvium, which is highly expansive with a brittle layer
of subsoil. Colluvium soil typically consists of dark gray, very stiff to hard silty clay.
Landform and Topography
The site has very little variation in topography and gently slopes upward from the south
(adjacent to 1-580) to the north (adjacent to Dublin Boulevard). The lowest elevation is
approximately 345 feet above sea level and the highest is 353 feet for a grade change of
approximately 8 feet.
Drainage
The permitted grading eliminated a number of small, unmanned north-south intermittent
streams that were described in prior CEQA reviews.
Project Impacts
a) Would the Project Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse
impacts, including loss, injury or death related to ground rupture, seismic ground
shaking, groundfailure or landslides? LS. The Project site is subject to ground
shaking caused by a number of regional faults. Under moderate to severe seismic
events which are probable in the Bay Area, buildings, utilities and other
improvements would be subject to damage caused by ground shaking. The Eastern
Dublin EIR contains mitigation measures to reduce impacts related to ground
shaking to a less than significant level.
b) Is the site subject to substantial erosion and/or the loss of topsoil? LS. The Eastern
Dublin EIR notes that construction of all of the land uses in the Eastern Dublin
Specific Plan Area would increase erosion and sedimentation in the area through
grading on the sites. Mitigation Measures 3.6/27.0 and 3.6/28.0, in the Eastern
Dublin EIR, require the Project to prepare and implement interim erosion plans as
part of the grading permits.
c-d) Is the site located on soil that is unstable or expansive or result in landslides,
liquefaction or collapse? LS. The site has colluvium soil which typically has a high
shrink-swell potential. Mitigation Measures 3.6/14.0 through 3.6/16.0 were adopted
in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan to reduce the potential for shrink-swell impacts
to a less than significant level by requiring appropriate structural foundations and
other techniques to reduce the risk of structure and infrastructure damage.
e) Does the Project site have soils incapable of supporting on-site septic tanks? NI.
The Project will be connected to a sanitary sewer system provided by the Dublin
San Ramon Services District and therefore septic tanks will not be used.
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 24
June 2006
Overall, no impacts to soils and geology not previously identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR
or the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration are expected to occur as a result ofthe revised
project.
VI. Hazards and Hazardous Materials
The Project site is vacant with no structures. Phase I and Phase 11 hazardous materials studies
were conducted for Planning Area H in 1997 and determined that no hazardous materials
were in the Area.
Project Impacts
A, b, c) Would the Project create a significant hazard to the public through the transport,
use, disposal or emission of hazardous materials? LS. Proposed uses for the Project
include retail, office and restaurant uses. Hazardous materials are not typically
associated with these types of uses; however, minor quantities of hazardous
materials could be associated with the uses. These materials could include lawn
chemicals, cleaning solvents or other items typically used for building and site
maintenance. Located near a school?
D) Would the Project be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous
materials sites? NI. Studies conducted in the site indicate that the site is free of
hazardous materials.
E, f) If the site is located within an airport land use plan or within the vicinity of a
private airstrip, would the Project result in a safety hazard for people working or
residing in the area? NI. The Project area is located to the Northwest of the
Livermore Municipal Airport. During an Alameda County Airport Land Use
Commission (ALUC) meeting on April 14, 1999, the ALUC determined that the
project area was outside ofthe referral area for the Livermore Municipal Airport.
g) Would the proposed Project impair the implantation of the adopted emergency
response plan or emergency evacuation plan? NI. Adequate emergency access will
be provided in the area through collector streets. The proposed Project will not
interfere with access to these streets as development was anticipated on this parcel
in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan and the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration.
h) Would the proposed project expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss,
injury or death involving wildlandfires? LS. The Project site is currently a vacant
field with some grasses. Although the site is vacant, several projects near the
project site are under construction which has reduced the amount of grasslands in
the area. Development ofthe project site will include new waterlines, fire hydrants
and emergency vehicle access easements for firefighting purposes as well as new
fire stations and personnel in the Eastern Dublin Planning Area to meet the needs of
the businesses and residences in the area.
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 25
June 2006
VIII. Hydrology and Water Quality.
The project site is relatively flat, although the site has a higher elevation that the adjacent
property due to rough grading and fill which was conducted in the past. Although the 1999
Mitigated Negative Declaration determined that a large portion ofthe site was located in
Flood Zone AH, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has removed the
property from a Special Flood Hazard Area. The new flood zone designation for this property
is now Zone X which means outside a special flood hazard area.
The 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration included additional Mitigation Measure 5 which
requires the preparation of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), Mitigation
Measure 6 which requires a drainage and hydrology study and Mitigation Measure 7 which
requires the applicant to submit proofthat the property is outside a flood hazard area in
conjunction with the Building Permit(s).
Proiect Impacts
a) Would the Project violate any water quality standards or waste discharge
requirements? LS. Construction of the Project would require grading in order to
construct the building pads, roadways, utilities and other improvements. The 1999
Mitigated Negative Declaration included supplemental Mitigation Measure 5 which
requires a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan be prepared to reduce potential
water quality impacts.
b) Would the Project substantially deplete groundwater recharge areas or lowering of
water tables? LS. This impact has been addressed in the Eastern Dublin EIR and
the project will be required to adhere to Mitigation Measures 3.5/49.0 and 3.9/50.0.
The 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration did not identify any additional impacts as
a result of development on the site.
c) Would the Project substantially deplete groundwater recharge areas or lowering of
the water table? LS. The Eastern Dublin EIR acknowledges that the conversion of
vacant land to urban uses will alter existing drainage patterns. Compliance with
Mitigation Measure 5 in the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration will reduce
erosion on the site from both construction and post construction to a less than
significant level. The revised Project will be required to comply with this mitigation
measure.
d) Would the Project substantially alter drainage patterns or result in flooding on or
off the project site? LS. Development of vacant properties in the Eastern Dublin
Planning Area could alter drainage patterns on the project site. However, drainage
will be altered through newly constructed underground pipes, culverts and similar
facilities.
e) Would the Project create stormwater runoff that would exceed the capacity of
drainage systems or add substantial amounts of polluted runoff? LS. Construction
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 26
June 2006
of on-site improvements is anticipated to lead to greater quantities of stormwater
runoff. The 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration requires the project to prepare a
SWPPP to reduce impacts on the site. Additionally, Mitigation Measure 6 requires
the developer to submit a drainage and hydrology study to the Public Works
Department prior to issuance of any grading permits.
f) Would the Project substantially degrade water quality? LS. Mitigation Measure 5
requires that the developer create a SWPPP in order to minimize impacts on water
quality as a result of erosion.
g) Would the Project place housing within a 1 OO-year flood hazard area as mapped by
a Floor Insurance Rate Map? NI. This project does not include housing units.
h,i) Would the Project place within a 1 OO-year flood hazard boundary structures that
impede or redirect flood floor, including dam failures? NI. No portion of the
Project site is located within a flood hazard area as defined by the Federal
Emergency Management Agency.
j) Would the Project result in inundation by seiche, tsunami or mudflows? LS. The
site is not located near a significant body of water which could result in a seiche.
The risk of a potential mudflow is considered low since no historic mudflows or
landslides have been identified on the site. The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
contains Mitigation Measures 3.6/17.0 and 3.6/28.0 which require analysis and
proper siting of construction to reduce these impacts on this property and
surrounding properties to a less than significant level.
V. Land Use and Planning
The Project site is located within the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan area. The Project site is
also located in the Tassajara Gateway subarea which is identified in the Specific Plan. In
1999 a Stage 1 Development Plan was approved for Area H (in which the Project site is
located). Although the total square footage of general commercial that is proposed on the site
is greater than what was anticipated in the Stage 1 Development Plan, the floor area ratio
(.25) will not change. The increase in square footage is a result of an error in the calculation
ofthe gross acreage of the site and due to the re-alignment of Dublin Boulevard and Grafton
Street. The proposed square footage ofthe site however falls within the square footage
anticipated in the Tassajara Gateway subarea and reviewed in the Eastern Dublin EIR which
anticipated a greater amount of commercial acreage in the area than what was estimated in
the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration.
Project Impacts
a) Would the proposed Project physically divide an established community? NI. The
project site is vacant and is located between Dublin Boulevard and Northside Drive.
Commercial development has been anticipated on the site since the adoption of the
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan and in the Stage I Planned Development Rezone.
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 27
June 2006
Additionally, residential development is currently underway near the site and
commercial development is anticipated adjacent to the site in the future.
b) Would the Project conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy or regulation?
NI. The proposed Project site has a land use designation ofGC (General
Commercial) and GC/CO (General Commercial/Campus Office). The land use
designations permit a combination of general commercial and campus office uses
on the site (with campus office limited to 10.5 acres). The proposed Project includes
the development of a shopping center with general commercial uses. The proposed
Project is compatible with the type of development anticipated in the Eastern
Dublin Specific Plan, General Plan and the Stage 1 Development Plan.
As discussed previously, the proposed Project would result in a shopping center
which is 25,059 square feet larger than the development approved under the Stage 1
Planned Development. Although the shopping center square footage will increase
over the approved square footage for Area H, the additional square footage was
studied in the Eastern Dublin EIR and the proposed square footage falls within the
limits previously studied in the EIR.
c) Would the Project conflict with a habitat or natural community conservation plan?
NI. A Habitat or natural community conservation plan has not been adopted within
the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan area and therefore development on the project site
would not impact an established plan.
Overall, no additional impacts to land use and planning (as identified in the Eastern Dublin
EIR or the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration) are expected to occur as a result ofthis
Project.
VI. Mineral Resources
The Project site contains no known mineral resources.
Project Impacts
A, b) Would the project result in the loss of availability of significant mineral resources?
NI. Both the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration did
not identify any significant mineral resources on this site.
Overall, no additional impacts to mineral resources (as identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR
or the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration) are expected to occur as a result ofthis Project.
XI. Noise
Major sources of noise on and adjacent to the project site include noise generated by vehicles
on 1-580, Tassajara Road and Dublin Boulevard.
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June 2006
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified Impact 3.1 OlE regarding the exposure of residences to
noise from construction equipment. Because residences are located near the subject property,
construction ofthe project will be required to adhere to Mitigation Measures 3.10/4.0 and
3.10/5.0.
Project Impacts
A, d) Would the Project expose persons or generation of noise levels in excess of
standards established by the General Plan or other applicable standards? LS. The
City of Dublin General Plan includes policies which requires the development to be
constructed in accordance with the City's noise exposure limits (see Table 9.1 in the
General Plan). The project will be required to conform to these requirements.
b) Would the Project expose persons to excessive groundbourne vibration or
groundbourne noise levels? NI. No impacts are anticipated for groundbourne
vibration or noise, since no sources of vibration currently exist within or adjacent to
the Project, such as heavy industrial facilities or railroads.
c) Would the Project substantially increase permanent ambient noise levels? LS. The
Eastern Dublin EIR identified permanent noise impacts related to vehicular traffic
increases as an unavoidable and unmitigatable impact. A Statement of Overriding
Considerations was adopted for this impact which has reduced the impact to a less
than significant level.
Ej) For a Project located within an airport land use plan or within two miles of an
airport, would the project expose people to excessive noise levels? NI. The
Eastern Dublin EIR notes that noise related to aircraft flyovers from the
Livermore Municipal Airport are insignificant for the Eastern Dublin planning
area.
Overall, no additional impacts related to noise (as identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR or the
1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration) are expected to occur as a result of this Project.
XII. Population and Housing
The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan anticipates that 13,648 dwelling units will be constructed in
the Eastern Dublin Planning Area at buildout (with an estimated population of3I,639 units).
The California Department of Finance has determined that the total City of Dublin's
population was 39,931 as ofJanuary 1, 2005.
Proiect Impacts
a) Would the Project induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly
or indirectly? LS. Approval ofthe proposed Project is consistent with the Eastern
Dublin Specific Plan, Eastern Dublin EIR and the land use identified in the Stage I
Development Plan. The proposed amendment to the Stage 1 Development Plan
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City of Dublin 29
June 2006
would increase the approved square footage by 25,059 square feet; however, the
total square footage is consistent with the floor area ratio and the total development
potential (square footage) identified in the Tassajara Gateway subarea (Section
4.9.1 of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan). Additionally, the proposed Project is a
commercial development and therefore will not significantly increase the
population in the area.
b, c) Would the Project displace a substantial number of existing housing units or
people? NI. The existing site is vacant.
Overall, no additional impacts with respect to population and housing (as identified in the
Eastern Dublin EIR or the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration) are expected to occur as a
result ofthis Project.
XIII. Public Services.
Fire Protection: The City of Dublin contracts with the Alameda County Fire Department for
fire protection services including fire suppression, fire prevention, education, inspection
services and hazardous material control to the community.
Police Protection: The City of Dublin contracts with the Alameda County Sheriff Department
to provide 24-hour security patrols throughout the community in addition to crime
prevention, crime suppression and traffic safety.
Schools. The Dublin Unified School District (DUSD) provides educational services to
residents in the City of Dublin.
Maintenance. Maintenance of public streets, roads and other governmental facilities are the
responsibility of the City of Dublin Public Works Department.
Solid Waste Services. Solid waste services are provided by Amador Valley Industries.
Proi ect Impacts
a) Fire protection? LS. Construction of the proposed project would increase demand
for fire and emergency services on the site. The Project will be required to reduce
these impacts by installing fire sprinklers and new fire hydrants and by meeting the
minimum fire flow requirements in the Uniform Building Code and the Uniform
Fire Code.
b) Police protection? LS. An increase in the demand for police services may occur as
a result of the construction of the commercial shopping center largely due to an
increase in theft on the site. The Project will be required to comply with Mitigation
Measure 3.7/5.0 which requires additional police personnel (provided by the City)
and the project to be reviewed by the Police Department.
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 30
June 2006
c) Schools? NI. The proposed Project is for the construction of a 318,000 sq. ft.
commercial shopping center. The proposed shopping center will not significantly
increase demand for schools in the area.
d) Maintenance of public facilities, including roads? LS. Approval of the proj ect
would increase the long-term maintenance demand for roads. However, the
additional demands will be offset by additional City impact fees and property tax
revenues.
e) Solid waste generation? LS. Approval of the Project would increase generation of
solid waste during construction and during the life of the shopping center. The
Project will be required to provide adequate garbage and recycling facilities on the
site. Additionally, the Eastern Dublin EIR requires adherence to Mitigation
Measures 3.4/37.0 - 40.0 which requires the preparation of a solid waste
management plan.
Overall, no additional impacts with respect to public services (as identified in the Eastern
Dublin EIR or the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration) are expected to occur as a result of
this Project.
XIV. Recreation
Nearby community and regional parks include: Emerald Park, a 50-acre City park and Bray
Commons, a neighborhood park.
Project Impacts
a) Would the project increase the use of existing and neighborhood or regional
parking? NI. The proposed Stage 1 Planned Development Rezoning and Project
will not result in an increase in the number of residential units constructed in the
area. As a result, there will be no impacts on neighborhood or regional park
facilities.
b) Does the Project include recreational facilities or require the construction or
expansion of facilities which may have an adverse impact on the environment? NI.
The proposed Project does not include any recreational facilities.
Overall, no additional impacts to recreation (as identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR or the
1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration) are expected to occur as a result ofthis Project.
XV. Transportation/Traffic
The 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration included Mitigation Measure 8 and 9 which
required transportation improvements to be installed throughout the City. Please refer to the
1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration for more information regarding this section.
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 31
June 2006
Existing Transportation Network
The project site is served by a number of regional freeways and sub-regional arterial and
collector roadways including:
Interstate 580 - An eight lane east-west freeway that connects Dublin with local cities such
as Livermore to the east and Hayward and Oakland to the west. Interchanges near the project
site include Dougherty/Hopyard Road, Hacienda Drive, Tassajara Road!Santa Rita Road and
Fallon Road!EI Charro Road.
Dougherty Road - A six lane road between Dublin Boulevard and 1-580 (the road continues
as a six lane road as Hopyard Road in Pleasanton). This road reduces to four lanes from
Dublin Boulevard to the the Alameda County/Contra Costa border where it reduces to two
lanes.
Dublin Boulevard - This is a major arterial roadway in the City. The road is typically four
lane road except for - check this out. This road will connect with Fallon Road in the future.
Hacienda Drive - An arterial roadway designed to provide access to 1-580. This road
contains six lanes south ofI-580 and four lanes north of Dublin Boulevard.
Arnold Drive - This is a north-south two lane road which connects Gleason Drive to Dublin
Boulevard. The road will extend south of Dublin Boulevard in the future to connect with the
Dublin Transit Center.
Gleason Drive - This is an east-west two-lane road parallel to and north of Dublin
Boulevard. Gleason Drive runs from Arnold Drive to Fallon Road. Portions of Gleason Drive
are four lanes and a portion of this road is two lanes.
Tassajara Road - This road extends from Santa Rita Road at 1-580 to the Town ofDanville
(where it becomes Camino Tassajara). The road is a four lane road which turns into a two
lane road in the more rural areas ofthe City.
Santa Rita Road - A six lane divided urban arterial roadway from the 1-580 interchange
south to Valley Avenue in Pleasanton. This road primarily serves the east side of Pleasant on,
including the Hacienda Business Park and provides access to downtown Pleasanton.
Fallon Road - A two lane road which extends from 1-580 and connects with Gleason Drive.
In the future, Dublin Boulevard will be extended and will connect with Fallon Road.
Existing Intersection Operations
The Traffic Study completed in conjunction with the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration
found that the intersections near the project site operated at an acceptable level of service
(which is defined by the City of Dublin as an LOS ofD or better).
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City of Dublin 32
June 2006
Future Baseline Conditions
To implement the transportation and circulation aspects of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan,
the City of Dublin has undertaken a comprehensive program of transportation improvements
in the community. The program includes upgrades to 1-580 freeway intersections,
construction of new roads and improvements to existing roads. These improvements are
primarily funded by fees levied on new development in Eastern Dublin or are required to be
constructed by developers in conjunction with their projects.
Future Baseline Intersection Operations
A Traffic Study was completed in conjunction with the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration
analyzed the future baseline intersection operations with existing traffic, traffic from
approved projects and traffic from other pending development in the area. With the future
development in Eastern Dublin and appropriate traffic improvements in the City, the traffic
study found that the operation of all study intersections could be maintained at an LOS of D
or better.
Project Impacts
a) Would the Project cause an increase in traffic, which is substantial to existing
traffic load and street capacity? LS. The 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration
concluded that the proposed project in addition to the approved projects and future
projects in the area would potentially create significant impacts, however these
impacts could be mitigated to a less than significant level. The 1999 Mitigated
Negative Declaration included Mitigation Measure 8 which required that several
transportation improvements be installed throughout the City and Mitigation
Measure 9 which required Tassajara Road to be widened from six to eight lanes
between 1-580 and Dublin Boulevard.
b) Would the Project exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a LOS standard
established by the County CMA for designated road? NI. As shown in the 1999
Mitigated Negative Declaration, all nearby intersections can be mitigated to a Level
of Service D or better, which exceeds the minimum Level of Service E established
by the Alameda County Congestion Management Agency.
c) Would the Project result in a change in air traffic patters? NI. The proposed project
would have no impact on air traffic patterns because it is a regional serving
commercial development.
d) Would the project substantially increase hazards due to a design feature or
incompatible use? LS. Approval ofthe Project would result in the construction of
new driveways, circulation routes, access points and the extension of Grafton
Street. All new streets and other circulation improvements on the site will be
constructed in accordance with City design requirements to minimize substandard
turning radii, provide for maximum sight visibility distances and minimize other
potential hazards.
CEQA Addendum for Grafton Station Area H
City of Dublin 33
June 2006
e) Would the Project result in inadequate emergency access? NI. The proposed
Project has been reviewed with respect to emergency access by the City's Fire
Department and the Police Department. The Departments have concluded that the
site has been adequately designed for emergency access.
f) Would the Project result in inadequate parking capacity? NI. The proposed project
has been reviewed with respect to parking and the City has determined that the
proposed Project meets the requirements of the Dublin Zoning Ordinance with
respect to parking,
g) Would the Project create hazards or barriers for pedestrians or bicyclist? NI. The
Project has been designed to minimize potential hazards to pedestrians and
bicyclists.
XVI. Utilities and Service Systems
The project site is served by the following service providers:
Sewage treatment and local water supply: Dublin San Ramon Services District and Alameda
County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, Zone 7.
Regional water supply and distribution: Alameda County Flood Control and Water
Conservation District, Zone 7
Storm drainage: City of Dublin/Alameda County Floor Control and Water Conservation
District, Zone 7.
Proiect Impacts
a) Would the Project exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the RWQCB? NI.
The regional wastewater treatment plant is currently operating in compliance with
local, state and federal water quality standards. Mitigation measures 3.5/1.0 through
3.5/22.0 in the Eastern Dublin EIR addresses wastewater collection, plant capacity,
treatment and storage. This mitigation measures will continue to apply to this
project.
b ) Would the Project require new water or wastewater treatment facilities or
expansion of existingfacilities? LS. Existing water and sewer lines will need to be
extended to serve the Project site. The extension has been planned as part of the
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan and the proposed Project will not impact this
extension.
c) Would the proposed Project require new storm drainage facilities? LS. A new
drainage system will be constructed as part of the construction ofthis project. The
Project will be required to comply with Mitigation Measure 5 (identified in the
1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration) which requires the developer to prepare a
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June 2006
Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan to ensure that the proposed drainage system
will accommodate stormwater runoff from the Project.
d) Are sufficient water supplies available to support the Project? LS. The proposed
Project will increase the demand for water for domestic and irrigation purposes. The
increase in water could be accommodated by Zone 7 and the Dublin San Ramon
Services District.
e) Does the current wastewater provider have adequate capacity to serve the project?
LS. Approval ofthe Project and construction of the new shopping center will
increase the demand for wastewater treatment over present conditions. Based on
information contained in the Eastern Dublin EIR, the Dublin San Ramon Services
District has indicated that the local wastewater treatment plant has adequate
capacity to serve the proposed project.
f) Would the project be served by a landfill with adequate capacity to serve the
Project? LS. Construction of the Project would increase solid waste generation over
time. However, as statewide regulations mandating increased recycling take effect,
the amount of solid waste reaching the landfill would decrease. Solid waste
generation resulting from the proposed shopping center has been studied in the
Eastern Dublin EIR which indicated that the hauler can accommodate this project.
g) Would the Project comply with federal, state and local statues and regulations
related to solid waster? NI. The City of Dublin and the City's solid waste provider
would ensure that developer ofthe Project would adhere to federal, state and local
solid waste regulations.
Overall, no additional impacts to utilities and service systems (as identified in the Eastern
Dublin EIR or the 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration) are expected to occur as a result of
this Project.
XV. Mandatory Findings of Significance
a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment,
substantially reduce the habitat offish or wildlife species, cause afish or wildlife
population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or
animal community, reduce the number of or restrict the range of a rare of
endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods
of California history or prehistory? No. The analysis in this Initial Study indicates
that the proposed Project will not have a significant adverse impact on the overall
environmental quality, including biological resources or cultural resources with the
implementation of mitigation measures recommended in the 1999 Mitigated
Negative Declaration and the mitigation measures, including Statement of
Overriding Consideration contained in the _ Eastern Dublin EIR..
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City of Dublin 35
June 2006
b) Does the Project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively
considerable? No. The Project site lies within the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan,
specifically Tassajara Gateway subarea, and the proposed development is consistent
with the commercial development planned for the area and the Tassajara Gateway
subarea in which the project area is located.
c) Does the Project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse
effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? No. No such impacts were
discovered in the course of preparing this Initial Study or the 1999 Mitigated
Negative Declaration, or Easter Dublin EIR.
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City of Dublin 36
June 2006