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HomeMy WebLinkAboutReso 131-00 Neg Decl EmerGlenViRESOLUTION NO. 131 - 00 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN ADOPTING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR EMERALD GLEN VILLAGE CENTER (PA 00-003) WHEREAS, the applicant, Shea Properties has requested approval of a Planned Development Rezone/ Development Plan, Site Development Review, Tentative Parcel Map, and Master Sign Program Site Development Review for Emerald Glen Village Center to allow the development ora new 134, 025 neighborhood shopping center, 390 multi-family apartment units, surface and structured parking, landscaping and related improvements on approximately 19 acres of land generally located west of Tassajara Road and north of Dublin Boulevard, within the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan area (APN: 986- 0005-028 (a portion), 986-0005-005); and WHEREAS, the General Plan Amendment ("GPA") and Eastern Dublin Specific Plan ('~EDSP") were adopted by the City in 1994; and WHEREAS, the EDSP provides more specific and detailed goals, policies and action programs for approximately 3313 acres within the GPA area nearest to the City on its Eastern side; and WHEREAS, a Program Environmental Impact Report ("Program EIR") was prepared for the EDSP and GPA (SCH No. 91103604) and certified by the City Council on May 10, 1993, by Resolution No. 51-93, and two Addenda dated May 4, 1993, and August 22, 1994 ("Addenda") have been prepared and adopted by the City Council and are hereby incorporated by reference; and WHEREAS, on May 10, 1993, the City Council also adopted Resolution No. 53-93, adopting the GPA and EDSP, making findings and adopting overriding considerations as to the environmental impacts and mitigation measures relating to the EDSP and GPA, and adopting a Mitigation Monitoring Program ("Program MMP") for the GPA and EDSP which resolution is hereby incorporated by reference; and WHEREAS, an Initial Study has been prepared for the project to evaluate site-specific impacts of the project, to a greater level of detail than in the Program EIK pursuant to CEQA guidelines Section 15168. Based on the Initial Study, a Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Program has been prepared for the project with the finding that with the implementation of Mitigation Measures previously adopted for the Program EtR and with site specific Mitigation Measures contained in the Initial Study, the potential site-specific impacts of the project would be reduced to a level of insignificance. The Program EIR and Initial Study adequately describe the impacts of the project, and there have been no substantial changes or new information which would necessitate supplementing the Program EIR pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21166 and CEQA guidelines Section 15162; and WllEREAS, a complete application for the project is available and on file in the Planning Department; and WHEREAS, a 20 day public review period was held for the Mitigated Negative Declaration, from June 7, 2000 through June 26, 2000; and WHEREAS, two comment letters were received from Dublin San Ramon Services District and the California Regional Quality Control Board and are attached as a part of Attachment 3, no response to the District's letter is necessary and Staff is currently Preparing a response letter to the California Regional Quality Control Board; WHEREAS, the Planning Commission did hold a properly noticed public hearing on said application on July 11, 2000 and did adopt a Resolution recommending that the City Council adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Program for Emerald Glen Village Center (PA 00-003); and WHEREAS, a properly noticed public hearing was held by the City Council on July 18, 2000; and WHEREAS, a Staff Report was submitted recommending that the City Council adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Emerald Glen Village Center (PA 00- 003); and WHEREAS, the City Council did hear and use their independent judgment and considered all said reports, recommendations and testimony hereinabove set forth. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Dublin City Council does hereby find that: The project is within the scope of the Program Environmental Impact Report for the Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan (SCH 91103064). Site-specific environmental affects have been analyzed in the Initial Study prepared for the project and circulated for public review. The project will not have a significant effect on the environment with the application of Mitigation Measures identified in the Program EIR and in the Initial Study. 2. The Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Program have been prepared in ~iccordance with State and local environmental laws and guidelines. 3. The Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Program are complete and adequate. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT THE Dublin City Council does hereby adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Program PA 00-003 for Emerald Glen Village Center. The Mitigation Monitoring Program is attached as Attachment 4 and the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration is attached as Attachment 3, incorporated herein by reference. PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 18th day of July, 2000. AYES: Councilmembers Howard and McCormick, Vice Mayor Lockhart and Mayor Houston NOES: Councilmember Zika ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Emerald Glen Village Center, PA 00-003 July 2000 The following mitigation monitoring and reporting program is intended to comply with applicable sections of the California Environmental Quality Act, as amended. Implementing Monitoring Monitoring Verification Mitigation Measure Responsibility Responsibility Schedule Mitigation Measure 1 a: Prior to the issuance of a building permit the applicant Project Dublin Prior to shall verify that acoustically-effective patio fences/railings shall be constructed at Developer Planning and issuance of all first through fourth floor balconies with a direct or side view of Tassajara Road Building building to reduce the exterior patio levels to 67 dBA at ground floor patios and 66 dBA or Departments permits lower at upper floor patios as follows: 1. All patios within 110 feet of the centerline of Tassaj ara Road and with a direct or side view of the road shall be constructed with 6 ft high acoustical-effective patio fences at all first floor patios, 54 in. high acoustical-effective patio balconies at all second floor patios, 48 inch high acoustical-effective patio balconies at all third floor patios and 42 inch high acoustical-effective patio balconies at all fourth floor patios. 2. All patios within 175 feet of the centerline of Tassaj ara Road and with a direct or side view of the road shall be constructed with 6 ft high acoustical-effective patio fences at all first floor patios, 48 in. high acoustical-effective patio balconies at all second floor patios, 42 inch high acoustical-effective patio balconies at all third and fourth floor patios. 3. All patios within 320 feet of the centerline of Tassajara Road and with a direct or side view of the road shall be constructed with 6 ft high acoustical-effective patio fences at all first floor patios, 42 in. high acoustical-effective patio balconies at all second, third and fourth floor patios. 4. Acoustically-effective materials to be used shall be as specified in the Noise Assessment Study prepared by Edward Pack and Associates and on-file with the Planning Department. ATTACHMENT 4 Mitigation Measure lb: Prior to the issuance of a building permit the applicant Project Dublin Prior tO shall verify that the interior noise levels shall not exceed 45 dBA as follows: Developer Planning and , issuance of Building building 1. All units along the perimeter of building 3 facing north, south or east shall be Departments permits installed with window rated minimum Sound Transmission Class (STC) 31 or higher. Install windOws rated minimum STC 28 in all'other living spaces. 2. All units of building 1 and 2 with living spaces facing Central Parkway and Tassajara Road shall be installed with window rated minimum Sound Transmission Class (STC) 28. 3. Install mechanical ventilation in affected units to ensure a habitable environment as specified by the Uniform Building Code. 4. Construction plans shall be stamped approved by the qualified acoustical consultant Mitigation Measure lc: The commercial developer/shopping center management Project Dublin On-going shall ensure on an on-going basis that: Developer Planning Departments 1. All deliveries and loading operations shall occur during the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. to minimize noise impacts affecting nearby residents. 2. Trash pick-ups shall occur during the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. to minimize noise impacts affecting nearby residents. Containers with plastic lids shall be used to minimize the "banging" sound of steel lids. 3. Roof-top and mechanical equipment shall be shielded with air-tight panels to obstruct the view from any residential unit and to minimize noise impacts on residents. Equipment with the lowest Sound Power Levels (acoustic output) shall be chosen by the mechanical engineer. Dublin Planning Department Emerald Glen Village Center PA-00-003 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan July 2ooo page 2 Mitigation Measure 2: The project developer shall install traffic signals at the Project Dublin Public Prior to following intersections: Developer Works occupancy · Hibernia Drive/Central Parkway of first · Arnold Road/Central Pm'kway building · Tassajara Road/The Avenue (project entrance) Mitigation Measure 3: Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, the project Project Dublin Prior to developer shall prOvide parking for the project in compliance with the City's Developer Planning issuance of parking regulations. Department grading permit Dublin Planning Department Emerald Glen Village Center PA-00-003 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan July 2000 page 3 CITY OF DUBLIN P.O. Box 2340, Dublin, California 94568 City Offices, 100 Civic Plaza, Dublin, California 94568 EMERALD GLEN VILLAGE CENTER INITIAL STUDY/MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION File No. PA 00-003 Lead Agency: City of Dublin Prepared: June, 2000 ATTACHMENT3 Administration (925)833-6650 · City Council (925)833-6605 · Finance (925)833-6640 · Building Inspection (925)833-6620 Code Enforcement (925) 833-6620 · Engineering (925) 833-6630 · Parks & Community Services (925) 833-6645 Economic Development (925) 833-6650 · Police (925) 833-6670 · Public Works (925) 833-6630 Community Development (925) 833-6610 · Fire Prevention Bureau (925) 833-6606 DUBLIN SAN RAMON SERVICES DISTRICT 7051 Dublin Boulevard Dublin, California 94568 FAX: 925 829 1180 925 828 0515 RECEIVED June 26, 2000 'DUBLIN PLANNING Eddie Peabody, Jr. Director of Community Development City of Dublin P.O. Box 2340 Dublin, CA 94568 SUBJECT: COMMENTS ON MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR EMERALD GLEN VILLAGE CENTER, CITY OF DUBLIN Dear Mr. Peabody: Thank you for providing Dublin San Ramon Services District ("District") the opportunity to review and comment on the Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Emerald Glen Village Center. Our agency has identified no impacts nor necessary mitigations beyond those previously identified in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan and General Plan Amendment Final EIR (SCH No. 91103064), certified in 1992. It appears that the Mitigated Negative Declaration sufficiently cites the previous EIR, and that the proposed project is an appropriate action in implementation of the Specific Plan. On May 4, 2000, the District provided the Cit~ of Dcblin Planning Department a list of standard conditions and special conditions of approval to be included when approval of the project is being considered. With the inclusion of these conditions, and with the mitigations described in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan FEIR, our agency concludes that the City of Dublin has satisfactorily addressed the potential for and opportunities for mitigation of adverse environmental effects relative to water and wastewater that may result from the project. We would appreciate the opportunity to review the Final Conditions of Approval prepared by the City prior to project approval. ~' Engineering Planner BW:jg File: 99CK591((5.2); chron X~DOl\SYSkENGDEPT~CIP~,99ck591 - Zone 2 KW Sys~Erae~e~i~0J~6'~ ~m~]q~.36~' .- is a Public California Regional Water Quality Control Board . San Francisco Bay Region Winston H. Hickox Internet Address: http://www.swreb.ea.gov Secretary for t515 Clay Street, Suite 1400, Oakland, California 94612 Environmental Phone (510) 622-2~ 00" FAX (510) 622-2460 Protection Gray Davis Governor JUL ? :rune 27, 2000 ' DUBLIN PLAN~ING File No. 2198.09 Ms. Anne Kinney Associate planner City of Dublin 100 Civic Plaza Dublin, CA 94568 Re: Emerald Glen Village Center, Mitigated Negative Declaration SCH# 91103064 Dear Ms. Kinney: We have received the aboVe-referenced mitigated negative declaration and offer the following comments. on areas with which the Board is concerned. The purpose of this project is to construct a 134,025 square foot neighborhood retail center and 390 multi- family apartment units. The proposed commercial development would include a grocery store, drug store, restaurants, and other retail and food uses. The residential village would include a mixture of one and two bedroom units located in four-story buildings,' arranged around a parking structure. The community would also include a recreation/leasing office. The project site is bounded by Dublin Boulevard, Tassajara Road, Central Parkway, and Park Drive. The proposed development Would disturb more than five acres of land during constmcfionl It must be covered under the State NPDES General Permit for Discharges of Storm Water Associated ?Ath Construction Activity (General Permit). This can be accomplished by filing a Notice of Intent with th© State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Water Quality. The project sponsor must propose and implement control measures that are consistent with the General Permit and with the recommendations and policies of the local agency and the RWQCB. Also, the City of Dublin is permitted under and complies with NPDES permit CAS002983 !, the municipal storm water permit and associated Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP), as a part of approving and conditioning new and redevelopment projects. The SWMP includes the following requirements: Agencies will require public and private development projects to include site planning and design techniques to prevent and minimize impacts to water quality. These may include the following: California Environmental Protection Agency Recycled Paper -2- al Co Minimize land disturbance. Minimize impervious surfaces (e.g., roadway width), especially directly connected impervious areas (DCIA). Use of clustering. Preservation 'of quality open space. Maintain (and/or restore, if possible) riparian areas and wetlands as project amenities, establishing vegetation buffer zones to reduce runoff into waterways. Each agency will require public and private development projects to include permanent stormwater quality controls, as appropriate, if sufficient site planning measures are not implemented or feasible. Therefore, as'a part of its review and permitting of new and redeVelopment projects, including the subject project, Dublin should require both design measures and permanent treatment controls, as appropriate. The Negative Declaration states that BMPs will be implemented to mitigate the project's urban runoff impacts and to meet the City's requirements under its NPDES permit (2o. 38). However, no specific BMPs are required or identified. Based on a review of the project plans included in the Negative Declaration,' adequate design measures and treatment controls have not been included-in this project. I/this is the case, approval oft he project as presently proposed would place Dublin in violation of its NPDES permit. As staff have discussed with City staff, the use of storm drain inlet filters as the sole means to satisfy the permit requirements is inappropriate. Such filters might be used for small portions of the project, but the overall design must also include appropriate design measures and other treatment controls. 'Staff remain available to discuss project design issues w/th you. The Board is unable to offer more specific comment at this time. However, I have attached a copy of Our General Comments, which discuss the Board's area of responsibility, and which should help guide in the preparation of further CEQA documentation. Board staff also encourage the lead agency to obtain a copy of"Start at the Source," a design gu/dance manual for stormwater quality protection from the Bay Area Stormwater Management Agencies Association. This manual may be obtained at most city planning offices. If you haye any questions, please call' Emily Guglielmo at (5 ~ 0) 622-2344 or via e-mail to stu26~rb2.swrcb.ca, gov. Sincerely, Keith H. Lichten Water Resource Control Engineer cc (w/o enclosure): State Clearinghouse Enclosure California Environmental Protection Agency Recycled Paper California Regional Water Quality Control Board San Francisco Bay Region Winston H. Hickox Int~rnct Address: http://ww-w.swreb'~ea.gov Se~retttryfor 1515 Clay Sm~et, Suit~ la00, Oakland, California 94612 Environmental Phone (510) 622-2300 * FAX ($10) 622-2460 Protection Gray Davi~ Governor General. Comments The San 'Francisco Regional Water Quality Control Board (Regi'dna! Board or RWQCB) is charged with the proteCtion, of the Waters of the State of California in the San Francisco-Bay Region, including wetlands and stormwater quality. The Regional Board is responsible for administering the regulations established by the Federal Ci,:an Water Act. Additionally, the California Water Code establishes broad state authority for regulation of water quality. The San FranciSCo Bay Basin Water Qm!ity Con~o'l. p!a~n, (Barin' Plau) explains ~be Regional Board's strategy for regulating water quality. The Basin Plan also describes the iange of responses available to the Regional Board with regard to actions and proposed actions that degrade or potentially degrade the beneficial uses of the Waters of the State of California~ NPDES Water quality degradation is regulated by the Federal National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Program, established by the Clean Water Act, which controls and reduces pollutants to water bodies from point and nonpoint discharges. In California, the program is administered by the California Regional Water Quality Control Boards. The Regional Board issues NPDES permits for discharges to water bodies in the San Francisco Bay Area, including Municipal (area- or county-wide) Storrnwater Discharge Permits. Projects disturbing more than five acres of land during consmaction must be covered under the State NPDES General Permit for Discharges of Storm Water Associated with Construction Activity (General Permit). This can be 'accomplished by filing a Notice of Intent with the State Water Resources Control BOard. An NOI and the General Permit can be obtained fi.om the Board at (510) 622-2300. The project sponsor must propose and implement control measures that are consistent with the General Permit and with the recommendations and policies of the local agency and the RWQCB. Projects that include facilities with 'discharges of Storm Water Associated with Industrial Activity must be covered under the State NPDES General Permit for DisCharges Of Storm Water Associated with Industrial Activity. This may be accomplished by filing a Notice of Intent. TI'lc project sponsor must .propose control measures that are consistent with this, and with recommendations and policies of the local agency and the RWQCB. In a f~w eases, the project sponsor may apply for (or the RWQCB may require) issuance of an individual (industrY- or facility-specific) permit. The RWQCB's Urban Runoff Management Program requires Bay Area municipalities to develop and implement storm water management plans (SWMPs). The SWMPs must include a program for implementing .new development and c0nstmction site storm water quality controls. The objective of this component is to ensure that appropriate measures to control pollutants from new.development are: considered during the planning phase, before consmaction begins; implemented during the construction phase; and maintained after construction, throughout the life of the project. California Environmetttal Protection Agency ~ ~yclett Paper crmted as mitigation for the loss of existing jurisdictional wetlands or Waters.of the United States cannot be used as storm water treatment controls. In general, if a proposed project impacts wetlands or Waters of the State and the project applicant is unable to demonstrate that the project was unable to avoid adverse impacts to wetlands or Waters of the State, water quality certification will be denied.' 401 Certification may also be denied based on significant adverse impacts to wetlands or other Waters of the State. Storm' Water Quality Control Storm water is the major source of fresh water to creeks and waterways. Storm .water'quality is affected by a..variety of land uses and the pollutants generated by these activities. Development and construction activities cause .both site-specific .and cumulative water quality impacts. Water quality degradation may occur during construction due to discharges of sediment, chemicals, and wastes to nearby storm drains or creeks. Water quality degradation may Occur after consmaction is complete, due .to discharges ofpetr01eum hydrocarbons, cji, grease, and metals from vehicles, pesticides and fertilizers from landscaping, and bacteria from pets and people. Runoffmay be concentrated and storm water flow increased by newly developed impervious surfaces, which will mobilize and transport pollutants deposited on these surfaces to storm drains and creeks. Changes in runoffquantity or velocity may cause erosion or siltation in streams. Cumulatively, these discharges will increase pollutant loads in creeks and wetlands within the local watershed, and ultimately in San Francisco Bay. To assist municipalities in the Bay Area with complying with an area-wide NPDES Municipal Storm Water Permit or to develop a Baseline Urban Runoff Program (if they are not yet a co-pcrmittee with a Municipal Storm Water Permi0, the Regional Board distributed the Staff Recommendations for New and Redevelopment Control for Storm Water Programs (Recommendations). in April 1994. The Recommendations .describe the Regional Board's expectations of mUnicipalities in protecting storm water quality from impacts due'to new and redevelopment projects, including establishing policies and requirements to apply to development areas and projects; initiating appropriate planning~ review, approval, and inspection procedures; and using best management practices (BMPs) during consmaction and p6st-construction. Project impacts should' be minimized by developing and implementing a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). A SWPPP is required by the' State Const;mction Storm Water G..enerat permit (General Permi0. The SWPPP should be consistent with the terms of the General Permit, the Manual of Standards for Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures by'the Association of Bay Area. Governments (A.BAG), policies and recommendations of the local urban runoff program (city and/or coUnty), and the Recommendations of the RWQCB. SWPPPs should also be required for Projects that may have impacts, but which are not required to obtain an NPDES permit..preparation cfa SWPPP should be a condition of development, Implementation of the SWppp should be enforced during the c. onstmcfion period via appropriate options such as citations, stop work orders, or with_holding occupancy permits. Impacts' identified should be avoided and minimized by developing and implementing the types of controls listed below. Explanations of the controls-are available in the Regional-Board'S construction Field Manual, available from Friends of the San Francisco Estuary at (510) 286-0924, in BASMAA's Start at the Source, and in the California Storm Water Best Management Practice Handbooks. California Environmental Protection ~lgen~; '~ Recycled Paver I~pacts and Mitigation Measures Wetlands Wetlands enhance water quality through such natural functions as flood and erosion control, stream, bank stabilization, and filtration and purification of contaminants. Wetlands also provide critical habitats for hundreds of species of fish, birds, and other wildlife, offer open space, and provide many recreational opportunities. Water. quality impacts occur in wetlands from construction of structures in waterways, dredging, filling, and altering drainage to wetlands. The Regional Board must certify that any'permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (covering, dredging, or filling of Waters of the United S~ates, .including ,wetlands) complies with ~tate water quality standards, or waive such certification. Section 401 Water Quality Certification is necessary for all 404 Nationwide permits, reporting and non- reporting, as well as individual permits. All projects niust be evaluated for the presence of jurisdictional wetlands.and'other Waters of the State. Destruction of or impact to these waters should be avoided. If the proposed project impacts ' wetlands or other Waters of the State and the project applicant is unable to demonstrate that the project was unable to .avoid those adverse impacts, water quality certification will most likely be denied. 401 Certification may also be denied based on significant adverse impacts to wetlands or other Waters of the State. In considering proposals to fill wetlands, the Regional Board has adopted the California Wetlands Conservation Policy (Executive Order W-59-93, signed August 23, 1993). The goals of the Policy include ensuring '~no .overall net loss and achieving a long-term net gain in the quantity, quality, and permanence of wetlands acreage and values." Under this Policy, the Regional Board also considers the potential post-construction imPacts'to wetlands and Waters of the State and evaluates the measures proposed to mitigate those impacts (see Storm Water Quality Control, bel.ow). The Regional Boa/'d has adopted. U.S. EPA's Clean Water Act Section 404(b)(1) "Guidelines for Specification of Disposal Sites for Dredge or Fill Material," dated December 24, 1980, in the Board's Basin P1an for determining the circumstances under which fill may be permitted. SeChon 404C0)(1) Guidelines prohibit all discharges of fill material into regulated waters of the United States, unless a discharge, as proposed, constitutes the least environmentally damaging practicable alternative thai will achieve the basic project purpose. For non-water dependent projects, the guidelines assume that there are less damaging alternatives, mad the applicant must rebut that assumption. The Section 404(b)(1) Guidelines sequence the order in which proposals should be approached. First, impacts to wetlands or Waters of the' State must be avoided to the maximum extent practicable. Second, the remaining impacts musi be minimized, Final!.y~ the remaining unavoidable adverse impacts · to wetlands or Waters of the State must be mitigated. Mitigation will be preferably in-kind and on-site, with no net destruction of habitat value. A proportionately greater amount of mitigation is required for projects that are out-of-kind and/or off-site. Mitigation will preferably be completed prior to, or at least simultaneous to, the filling or other loss of existing wetlandS. Successfu..l mitigation projects are complex tasks and difficult to achieve. This issue will be strongly considered during agency review of any proposed wetland fill. Wetland features or ponds CalifOrnia Environmerttal Protection Agency 0 Recycled paper Site Planning The project should minimize impacts from project development by incorporating appropriate site planning concepts. This should be accomplished by designing and proposing site planning options as early in the project planning phases as possible. Appropriate Site planning concepts to include, but are not limited to the following: · Phase construction to limit areas and periods of impact. · Minimize directly connected impervious areas. · Preserve natural topography, existing drainage'courses and existing vegetation. · Locate construction and structures as far as possible from streams, wetlands, drainage areas, etc. · Provide undeveloped, vegetated' buffer zones between development and streams, wetlands, drainage areas, etc. · Reduce payed area through cluster development, narrower streets, use of porous pavement .and/or retaining natural surfaces. · Minimize the use of gutters and curbs which concentrate and direct runoff to impermeable surfaces. · Use existing vegetation and create new vegetated areas to promote infiltration. · Design and lay out communities to reduce reliance on cars. · Include green areas for people to walk their Pets, thereby reducing build-up of bacteria,' worms, viruses, nutrients, crc, in' impermeable areas, or institute ordinances requiring owners to collect pets' excrement. · Incorporate low-maintenance landscaping. · Design and ]ay out streets and storm drain systems to facilitate easy maintenance and cleaning. · Consider the need for runoff collection and treatment, systems. · Label. storm drains to discourage dumping of pollutants into them Erosion The project shOuld m~nimize erosion and control sediment during and after construction. This should, be done by developing and implementing an erosion control plan, or equivalent plan. This plan should be included in the SWPPP. The plan should SPecify all control measures that w/ll be used or which are anticipated to be used, including, but not limited to, the following: · Limit access routes and stabilize access points. * Stabilize. denuded areas as.soon as possible with seeding, mulching, or other effective methods. · Protect adjacent properties with vegetative buffer strips, sediment barriers, or other effective .methods. · Delineate clearing limits, easements, setbacks, sensitive areas, vegetation and drainage courses by marking them in the field. · Stabilize and prevent erosion from temporary conveyance channels and outlets. · Use sediment controls and filtration to remove sediment from water generated by dewatering or collected on-site during construction. For large sites, stormwater settling basins will often be necessary. .California Environmetttal Protection ~4gency ' ~ Recycled Paper Chemical and Waste .Management The project should minimize impacts from chemicals and wastes used or generated during construction. This should be done by developing and implementing a plan or set of control measures. The plan or control measures should be included in the SWPPP. The plan should specify all control measures that will. be used or which are anticipated to be used, including, 'but not limited to, thc following: Designate specific areas of the si~e, away from streams or storm drain inlets, for storage, preparation, and disposal of building materials, chemical p~:oducts, and wastes. · Store stockpiled materials and wastes under a roof or plastic sheeting. · Store containers of paint, chemicals, solvents, and other hazardous mater/als stored in containers under cover during rainy periods. · Berm around storage areas to prevent contact with runoff. · Cover open Dumpsters securely with plastic sheeting, a tarp, or other cover during rainy periods. · Designate specific areas of the site, away from streams or storm drain inlets, for auto and equipment parking and for routine vehicle and equipment maintenance. · Routinely maintain all vehicles and heavy equipment to avoid leaks. * Performmajor maintenance, repair, and vehicle and equipment washing off-site,, or in designated and controlled areas on-site. · Collect used motor oil, radiator coolant or other fluids xvith drip pans or drop cloths. * Store and label spent fluids carefully prior to recycling or.proper disposal. · Sweep up spilled dry materials (cement, mortar, fertilizers, etc.) immediately--do not use water to wash them away.. · Clean up liquid spills on paved or imp.ermeable surfaces using "dry" cleanup methods (e.g., absorbent materials, cat li~er, rags) and dispose of cleanup materials properly. · Clean up spills on dirt areas by digging up and properly disposing of the soil. · Keep paint removal wastes, fresh concrete, cement mortars, cleared Vegetation, and demolition wastes out of gutters, streams, and storm drains by using proper containment and disposal. Post-Construction The project .should minimize i~npa~ts...from pollutants tho may be generated by ~.he project' following construction, when'the project is complete and occupied or in operation. These P°ttu~ants may include: sediment, bacteria, metals, solvents, oil, grease, and pesticides, all of which are typically generated during the life of a residential, commercial, or industrial project after construction has ceased. This should be done by developing and implementing a plan and set of control measures. The Plan or control measures should be included in the SWPPP. The plan should specify all control measures that will be used or which are anticipated to be used, including, but not limited -to, the source conlr01s and treatment comrols listed in the Recommendations. Appropriate control measures .are discussed in the Recommendations, in: · Table 2: Summary of residential post-construction BM? selection · Table 3: Summary of industrial post-cons~uction B/vIP selection · Table 4: Summary of commercial post-construction BMP selection California Environmental Protection Agency Recycled Paper Additional sources of information that should be consulted for BMP selection include the California Storm Water Best Management Practice Handbooks; the Bay Area Preamble to the California Storm Water Best Management Practice ttandbooks and New Development Recommendations; the BASMA. A New Development Subcommittee meetings, minutes, and distributed information; and Regional Board s*.aff. Regional'Board staff also have fact sheets and other information available for a variety of structural stormwater treatment controls, such as grassy swales, porous pavement and extended detention ponds. California Environmet6tal Protection Agency Recycled Paper INTRODUCTION This initial study has been prepared by the City of Dublin to assess the potential environmental effects of the proposed Emerald Glen Village Center. The analysis is intended to satisfy the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and provide the City with adequate information for project review. This initial study includes a project description, environmental checklist and discussion focused upon issues identified in the checklist. In summary, this initial study concludes that with the implementation of mitigation measures, the project will not pose a significant adverse environmental impact. The Initial Study was prepared based upon the location of the project, staff office review, field review, comments from City, County and local agencies, use of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan and General Plan Amendment Final EIR which was previously certified (SCH No. 91103064) by the Dublin City Council. other City Planning Documents, the CEQA Law and Guidelines, and City of Dublin CEQA Guidelines. PROJECT LOCATION AND CONTEXT The projdat site is located on the northwest corner of Tassajara Road and Dublin Boulevard. The site area encompasses approximately 19 acres. The project site is bounded by roadways and is generally vacant with the exception of the south and southwestern portions of the property. This portion of the site is currently being used as a staging area and sales office for the construction and sale of residential units to the west of the site. The remainder of the site is characterized by a mix of native and exotic grasses, two mature trees and a stockpile of excavated material which has been placed on the western portion of the property from the construction of nearby projects. Refer to Vicinity Map attached as Figure 1. The project site is located within the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan/General Plan area. This Specific Plan/General Plan was adopted by the City of Dublin in 1994 for the purpose of directing tong-term land use, circulation, infrastructure and environmental protection for 3, 302 acres of land located east of the central portion of Dublin and north of 1-580 freeway. At full build-out, the Eastern Dublin planning area would allow for a range of residential, commercial, office, employment and open space uses. The property is located in an area previously know as the Santa Rita Property, a 600-acre property declared surplus by Alameda County. This area is currently being developed with a mix of retail. commercial, office and residential uses. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The proposed project is a mixed-use development including 134,025 square foot neighborhood shopping center and 390 mUlti-family apartment units. The commercial development would include a grocery store, drug store, restaurants and other retail and food uses. The residential Village would consist of a mixture of one and two bedroom units located in four-story buildings arranged around three court?:ards and a central parking structure. A pedestrian-orientated area would be located at the center of the project, consisting of wide sidewalks and an open plaza area with ground floor retail and second, third 'and fourth floor apartments. The community also includes a recreation/leasing office with fitness facility, outdoor pool and spa, business center and meeting room. Refer to Site Plans attached as Figure 2. The project requires the following planning and related approvals: 1) a Plarmed Development (PD) Rezone / Stage 1 and Stage 2 Development Plan, 2) Site Development Review, 3) Parcel Map and 4) a Development Agreement. Planned Development (PD) Rezone/Staae 1 and 2 Development Plan: The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan requires that future development within the Specific Plan area be reviewed pursuant to a Planned Development in order to create more co-ordinated, coherent development. The existing zoning for the site is Planned Development (PD) - General Commercial and the proposed zoning is Planned Development (PD) - General Commercial/High Density Residential. The proposed designation is consistent with the policies and intent of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan which encourages mixed-use development within commercial areas that contribute to the social, cultural and economic vitality of the commercial districts. The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan supports mixed-use development as a means of reducing auto traffic, efficiently using developable land and creating a vital retail environment. The project would locate stores and services in .close proximity to a residential complex, thereby promoting pedestrian activity and reducing dependence on the automobile. At the junction of the commercial and residential portions of the project, a pedestrian-oriented area is proposed, consisting of ground-floor retail uses and second, third and fourth floor apartments. The 'Avenue' would be designed with seating and plaza areas. In accordance with the Zoning Ordinance a Stage 1 and 2 Development Plan has been proposed for the property. The Development Plan will establish standards and regulations governing the future use. development, improvement, and maintenance of the site. The proposed Development Plan includes permitted land uses, densities, maximum number of residential units and non-residential square footages, development standards, Stage 1 and 2 site plan, architectural and landscape standards. Size Plan: The project site is rectangular in shape and is bounded by Dublin Boulevard to the south, Tassajara Road to the east. Central Parkway to the north and Park Drive to the west. The site plan indicates that the primary commercial building would be located on the southern portion of the site parallel to Park Drive. This one-story commercial structure would be divided into four tenant spaces (totaling 94,400 square feet) with the primary building entrances facing Tassajara Road. This space would accommodate a future grocery/drug store and smaller retail uses. The surface parking would be primarily arrayed in front of the building to the east. A pad building (8, 500 square feet) would be located on the corner of Tassajara Road and Dublin Boulevard with two additional buildings and a kiosk area (18, 575 square feet) aligned with Tassajara Road and 'The Avenue'. :The Avenue' is located at the center of the property, perpendicular to Tassajara Road and serves as the primary access to the development. 'The Avenue' has been designed to be pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks, crosswalks and an open plaza at its west end. The plaza has been designed with seating, enriched landscaping and an art feature. The north side of 'the Avenue' would be developed with ground floor retail uses (12,550 square feet)and ninety-one residential units in the upper three stories. The remaining residential units (299) would be located on the northern portion of the site in four four- story buildings arranged around three courtyards and a central four-story (with a 1/4 fifth floor) parking structure. Each unit would be provided with a patio which will either front onto the surrounding roadways or the interior courtyards. Each courtyard would be extensively landscaped with a distinctive theme. Access to the residential vill.age would be restricted by three gated entries to the parking garage and a system of'gated entries to the buildings. Direct access would be provided from each garage level to the corresponding residential floor level. Resident/visitor access to the residential units would also be provided via a system of walkways. The recreational/leasing office containing a fitness room, business center, conference facilities and outdoor pool area would be located at the southwest corner of Central Parkway and Tassajara Road. Access. ?arking, Loading and Circulation: Seven drivewavs would provide access to the development from surrounding roadways. Primary access would be provided via a two-lane driveway known as 'the Avenue'. Secondary access to the shopping center would be restricted to right-in/out off of Dublin Boulevard and Park Drive and to right-in only access off of Tassajara Road. Primary residential access is provided via 'The Avenue' and a two-lane driveway off of Tassajara Road. This entrance would be characterized by embellished paving, and landscaping to create an attractive entry. Parking spaces for visitors to the leasing office would also be available at this location. A third access off of Central Parkway would be restricted to resident access only. In ~ddition, an emergency access would be provided between building numbers 5 and 1 off of Park Drive. The site has been designed with a system of pedestrian walkways to provide access between the residences and the retail stores and surrounding sidewalks. Pedestrian access would be provided via the open plaza at the west end of 'the Avenue' to Park Drive. A total of 575 (including 9 spaces at the recreational building) surface parking and 713 garage spaces have been provided to serve the development. The spaces provided for the commercial portion of the development meet the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance. However, parking provided for the residential village does not comply with the City's parking regulations (refer to Section XV Transportation/Traffic for more information). Bicycle racks would also be provided on the sire. The primary truck loading and service area for the grocery/drug store would be screened from adjacent streets and the residential development to the west by a combination solid fence/decorative trellis and extensive landscaping. As part of the project development, the site would be cleared and graded to accommodate the proposed buildings, surface and structured parking, pedestrian walkways and related improvements to ensure adequate drainage. Underground utilities, including sewer, water, reclaimed water, storm drain lines, natural gas, telephone, fiber optic and electrical would be extended from adjoining streets. Adjacent streets are currently being improved per the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan standards. 4 Site Development Review: An application has also been filed for a Site Development Review permit, pursuant to Chapter 8.104 of the Dublin Zoning Ordinance. The purpose of Site Development Review is to promote the orderly, attractive and harmonious development within the City and to ensure compliance with all applicable development regulations of the Zoning Ordinance. The application also proposes a Master Sign Program for the development. Parcel Map: The applicant has also requested approval of a parcel map (refer to Figure 3) to subdivide the property into three separate parcels of record. After approval of the Tentative Parcel Map, a final Parcel Map would be prepared, approved by the City and recorded. Development A~reement: A Development Ageement has been proposed between the City of Dublin, Developer and Property Owner as required by the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. Items typically included in the Development Agreement include, but are not limited, to, the financing and timing of infrastructure; payment of traffic. noise and public facilities impact fees; improvement of roads and general provisions. VICINITY MAP N.T.S. CITY LIMIT LINE 0 DUBLIN GLEASON ROAD 1-580 SUBJECT SITE DUBLIN BOULEVARD PLEASAN TON FIGURE 1 ~ Vicinity Map KOLL ~HCE PROJF. CT PARK MI M2 R4 COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL SUMMARY . I~# I -- COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL SUMMARY TOTAL UNB'B -- I ~ RESIDE~ P~HO REQ'D. ~ILDI~, ~ILDI~ 4 CDHTAI~ ~R~T~ ~ R~IDE~AL ~ SPACEI Silo Malerial Legend: EMERALD GLEN COMMUNITY PARK ' A RCi IIT~CTURE AN'O OVERALL SITE PLAN FIGURE 2 - Site Plans TOPOGRAHIlC MAP C-1 DAT~: 05/12/00 I GRADING PLAN C-2 DATE: JI -.-.- IJ.Lt.i[t I..i.{ I.H H./J ~_1 ~ [I [: I.J.~ l il.,I.lJ /Ir AND PLA~INING I'REIJMINARY UTILITY MAP C-3 DAT~ 05/12/iR1 // 1011 PARK DRIVE' 12s~.,~,~ ' ' M2' ~4 L~ · I; TENTATIVE PARCEl_ MAP NO. 7589 RECEIVED ht,~¥ 3 1 2000,-, I'.JO {}0~. DUBLIflPLAIdNING FIGURE 3 - Tentative Parcel Map TENTATIVE pARCE'L MAP NO. 7589 ' fi;.. TENTATIVE PARCEl._ ivlAP NO. 7589 Environmental Checklist Form Initial Study 1. Project title: Emerald Glen Village Center 2. Lead agency name and address: City of Dublin, 100 Civic Plaza, Dublin CA 94568 3. Contact person and phone number: Anne Kinney, Associate Planner (925) 833-6610 4. Project locatiOn: North west corner of Tassajara Road and Dublin Boulevard 5. Assessors Parcel Number(s): 986-0005-028 (a portion) and 986-0005-005 6. Project sponsor's name and address: Shea Properties, 2155 Las Positas Court, Suite U, Livermore, CA 94550 General / Specific Plan designation: General Commercial (the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan contains policies which encourage the development o£ mixed'use projects in areas designated for commercial uses to include both retail and residential components. Program 4J(a) of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan limits uses on the subject site to neighborhood commercial uses) 8. Existing Zoning: Plarmed Development (PD) 9. Proposed Zoning: Planned Development (PD) - C-N/R-M (Neighborhood Commercial and Multi-' Family Residential Zoning District) 10. Description of project: (see previous page) 12. Surrounding land uses and setting: Briefly describe the project's surroundings: The project site is located in the eastern portion of Dublin and is surrounded by developing property: The site is bounded by Tassajara Road to the east, Dublin Boulevard to the south, Central Parkway to the north and Park Drive to the west. Both Central Parkway and.Park Drive improvements are currently under construction. West of Park Drive: a residential project with a mix of single family and multi family units is under construction; South of Dublin Boulevard: an office complex is currently under construction; North of Central parkway: Emerald Glen Community Park is under construction and East of Tassajara Road: vacant (proposed as a future commercial property) 13. Other public agencies whose approval is required: (e.g., permits, financing approval) Tentative and Parcel Map (City of Dublin) Grading and Building permits (City of Dublin) Sewer and water connections (DSRSD) Encroachment permits (City of Dublin) Notice of Intent (State Water Resources Control Board) ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: 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 Resources ~X-~Air Quality ~7-~ Biological Resources ~ Cultural Resources ~-~ Geology/Soils ~ Hazards & Hazardous Materials ~ Hydrology / Water Quality ~7-) Land Use / Planning ~7-~ Mineral Resources ~-~ Noise ~7-~ Population / Housing ~-~ Publi~' Services ~-~ Recreation ~-~ Transportation/Traffic ~-~ Utilities / Service Systems ~ Mandatory Findings of Significance DETERMINATION: (To be completed by the Lead Agency) On the basis of this initial evaluation: ~ I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. ~ I 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. ~ I 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 kignificant impact" or "potentially 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 mitigatioh 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. 16 b~ find that the could have a significant effect on the environment, I although proposed project ecause 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 EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. Signature Date Printed name: Anne Kinney, Associate Planner For: PA 00-003 Emerald Glen Village Center, PD Rezone, SDR, PM, DA EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS: l) A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are adequately supported by the information sources a lead agency cites in the parentheses following each question. A "No Impact" answer is adequately supported if the referenced information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved (e.g., the project falls outside a fault rupture zone). A "No Impact" answer should be explained where it is based on project-specific factors as well as general standards (e.g., the project will not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants, based on a project-specific screening analysis). 2) Ail answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off-site as well as on-site, cumulative as well as project-level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational impacts. 3) Once the lead agency has determined that a particular physical impact may occur, then the checklist answers must indicate whether the impact is potentially significant, less than significant with mitigation, or less than significant. "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect may be significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact" entries when the determination is made, an EIR is required. 4) "Negative Declaration: Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated" applies where the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact" to a "Less Than Significant Impact." The lead agency must describe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level (mitigation measures from Section XVII, "Earlier Analyses," may be cross-referenced). 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:l, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8) b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but no limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? (Source:t, 2, 3, 5 ) c) Substm3. tially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? (Source: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 ) d) Create a new source of Substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? (Source: 1, 2, 3, ) II. AGRICULTURE 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. 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, 3, 5, 7 ) b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? (Source:2, 5, 6, 7) Potentially Less Than Less Than No Si_extificant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation Incorporation X X X X X X 3.8 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:l, 2, 3 ) III. 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?(Source: 1,2, 5 ) b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation? (Source: 1,2 ) 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: 1, 2 ) d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations?(Source:l, 2 ) e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people?(Source: 1, 2 ) IV. BI/)LOGICAL RESOURCES --Would the project: Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation Incorporation x x X x x X a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as 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? (Source: t, 2, 3, 5, 7 ) 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 of Fish and Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service? (Source: 1,2, 3, 5, 7 ) 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: 1, 2, 5, 7) 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: 1, 2, 3, 5, 7) e) Conflict with any local policies or Ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? (Source:l, 2, 5 ) 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: 1, 2, 5 ) V. CULTURAL RESOURCES -- Would the project: a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a histSrical resource as defined in § 15064.5? (Source: 1, 2, 5, 7) Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation Incorporation x x x x x x x 2o Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant significant Impact Impact with ImpaCt Mitigation . Incorporation X X X X X X X X X b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to § 15064.5? (Source:l, 2, 5, 7 ) c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? (Source: 1,2,5,7 d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? (Source:l, 2, 5, 7 ) VI. GEOLOGY AND 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. (Source: 1,2,7,9 ) ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? (Source: 1, 2, 9) iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? (Source: 1, 2, 9 ) iv) Landslides? (Source: 1, 2, 9 ) b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? (Source:l, 2, 7 ) 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:l, 2, 7,9 ) 23. Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation Incorporation x X X x X X X 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? (Source: t, 2, 7,9 ) 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: 1, 2, 7,9 ) VII. HAZARDS AND 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? (Source: 1, 2 ) 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: 1, 2 ) c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one- quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? (Source:l, 2 ) 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: 1, 2,7 ) 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: 1, 2) 22 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact. Impact with Impact Mitigation Incorporation X X X x X X x 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, 2) 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 adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands? (Source:l, 2 ) VIII. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY- Would the project: a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements? (Source: 1, 2, 7 ) ' 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 rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which xvoutd not support existing land uses or plarmed uses for which permits have been granted)? (Source: 1, 2,7, 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:l, 2, 7 ) 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 which would result in flooding on- or off-site? (Source: 1, 2) 23 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: 1, 2 ) f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? (Source:l, 2 ) 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:l, 2 ) h) Place vdthin a 100-year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect flood flows? (Source: 1, 2 i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure ora levee or dam? (Source:l, 2 ) j) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, i involving inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mUdflow? (Source:l, 2 ) IX. LAND USE AND PLANNING - Would the project: a) Physically divide an established community? (Source:l, 2, 3 ) 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: 1, 2, 4, 5, 6) Potentially Less Than Less Than i No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation Incorporation X X x X X X X X Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation Incorporation X X X X X X X x c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan? (Source:l, 2, 5 ) X. MINERAL RESOURCES -- Would the project: a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that ~vould be of value to the region and the residents of the state? (Source:l, 2, 5, 7 ) 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: 1, 2, 4, 5, 7 ) 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: 1, 2, 4, 5, 11 ) b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundbome vibration or goundbome noise levels? (Source: 1, 2, 5, 7, 11 ) c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? (Source: 1, 2, 5, 7, 11 ) d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? (Source: 1, 2, 5, 7, 11 ) 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) 25 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, ) 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, 3, 5, 7 ) b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? (Source:l, 2,3 ) c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? (Source: 1, 2, 3 ) 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: Fire Protection? (Source: 1, 2, 5, 7 ) Police Protection? (Source: 1, 2, 5,7) Schools? (Source: 1, 2, 5, 7 ) Parks? (S'ource:l, 2, 5, 7 ) Other Public Facilities? (Source: 1, 2, 5, 7 ) .... Potentially LeSs Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation incorporation X X X X X X X X 25 X!V. RECREATION -- 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: I, 2, 5,7 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: 1, 2, 5, 7 ) X¥. TRANSPORTATION/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: l, 2, 5,1 b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of service standard established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? (Source:l, 2, 5, 6 ) 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, 5 ) 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 ) e) Result in inadequate emergency access? (Source: 1, 2 ) f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? (Source: 1, 2, 6 ) PotentiallyLess Than Less Than No SignificantSignificant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation Incorporation X X X X X X X X 27 g) Conflict With adopted policies, plans, or progTams supporting alternative transportation (e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks)? (Source: 1, 2, 4, 5 ) . XVI. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS -- Would the project: a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board? (Source:l, 2 ) 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: 1, 2 ) 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: 1, 2 ) d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? (Source: 1, 2 ) 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: 1, 2 ) f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs? (Source: 1, 2 ) Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant SignificantImpact Impact with Impact Mitigation Incorporation X X X X X X X 28 g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste? (Source: 1, 2 ) XVII. 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 rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important e major periods of California history or prehistory? (Source: 1 b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limit 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 projects)? (Source:l, 2, 5 ) c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? (Source: 1, 2, 5 Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporation Less Than Significant Impact No Impact x x X Sources used to determine potential environmental impacts: 1. Determination based on location of projeCt. 2. Determination based on staff office review. 3. Determination based on field review. 4. Determination based on the' City of Dublin General Plan 5. Determination based on the City of Dublin Eastern Dublin Specific Plan 6. Determination based on the City of Dublin Zoning Ordinance. 7. Determination based on Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan Final EIR and Addendum. 8. D~termination based on Eastern Dublin Scenic Corridor Policies and Standards, April 1996. 9. Determination based on Preliminary Geotechnical Investigation, Emerald Glen Village Center, Lowney Associates, dated November 1999. 10. Determination based on Traffic Study, TJKM, dated March, 2000 and Addendum dated May 30, 2000 29 11. Determination based on Noise Study and Noise Management Plan prepared by Edward Pack & Associat dated May, 2000 Earlier Analyses Earlier analyses may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA process, an effect has been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063(c)(3)(D). a) Earlier analyses used. Identify earlier analyses and state where they are available for review. Portions of the environmental setting, project impacts and mitigation measures for this Initial Study refer to environmental information contained in the 1994 Eastern Dublin Specific Plan/General Plan Environmental Impact Report (SCH 91103064). This document is referenced in the' Initial Study as the "Final EIR". Copies of this document is available forpublic review at the City of Planning Department, 100 Civic Plaza, Dublin CA. As part of the certification of the EIR, the Dublin Cie' Council adopted a Statement of Overriding Considerations for the following impacts: cumulative traffic, extension of certain community facilities (natural gas, electric and telephone service), regional air quality, noise and visual. The certified EIR contains a large number of mitigation measures that will be applied to any development within the project area. Specific mitigation measures are noted in the text of the following Initial Study. 3O EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Discussion of Checklist/Legend PS: Potentially Significant Impact LS/M: Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporation LS: Less Than Significant Impact NI: No Impact I. AESTHETICS Environmental Settinz The project site is located within a developing urban area iff the eastern portion of Dublin. The property is temporarily being used as a staging area for adjacent private and public improvements. A sales office has. been established at the southwest comer of the site for the sale of residential units currently under construction to the west. The remainder of the site is vacant and relatively fiat with a gentle slope from north to south across the property. The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan and General Plan 'Amendment FEIR classifies the property as "valley grasslands", which describes areas located within the southern portion of the Specific Plan adjacent to Inter-State 580. The site is located adjacent to Tassajara Road, a City designated scenic road. However, the project site is not located within a significant viewpoint area as defined in the Eastern Dublin Scenic Corridor Policies and Standards, April 1996. Project Impacts Visual/aesthetic impacts were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and ihrough various mitigation measures. No new impacts will occur as a result of the project and no additional mitigation measures are required. a) Have a sztbstantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? L.S. The development of the proposed project would convert an existing vacant site to an urban use. The project proposes the construction ora mixed-use community consisting 0f390 multi-family units and approximately 134, 025 square feet of commercial space, parking and landscaping areas. This potential impact was addressed in the Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment / Specific Plan EIR (Impact 3.8/C, Obscuring Natural Features, Impact 3.8/F, Alteration of Visual Character of Flatlands, Impact 3.8/I, Scenic Vistas and Impact 3.9/J Scenic Routes) and it was determined that no mitigation measures would reduce this impact to a less-then-significant level. Therefore, the FEIR concluded that this impact would be a potentially significant irreversible change and a Statement of Overriding Considerations has been approved for this impact. Mitigation Measure 3.8/8.0 required the development of Scenic Corridor Policies (the Eastern Dublin Scenic Corridor Policies and Standards, April 1996) to establish policies within the scenic corridor viewshed to ensure that scenic vistas would be preserved. The project site is located adjacent to a scenic roadway, however the site is not located within a scenic vista or viewpoint as identified in the Scenic Corridor Policies. No new impacts not previously analyzed in the FEIR are expected to occur as a result of the project and no additional discussion is necessary: 31 b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? N.I. There are no scenic resources on the project site. There are two mature trees on site, however they are not protected heritage vrees. No impacts are anticipated. c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? L.S. This impact was addressed in a Statement o£ Overridding Considerations in the 1994 Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment / Specific Plan Final EIR. Therefore no further discussion is necessary. d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? LS. The proposed project would increase the mount of light and glare due to new street lighting, parking lot lighting and building security lighting. A development standard/condition of approval will require the project to meet all City building and planning standards which require lights to be directed downward to prevent unwanted over spill onto other properties or negatively impact the future residents of the project. II. AGRICULTURE RESOURCES Environmental Setting The Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment / Specific Plan FEIR identifies that the site is an "approximate urbanized area" and is therefore not prime farmland. The site is not under a Williamson Act Land Conservation Agreement Contract. Project Impacts Agricultural impacts were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and through various mitigation measures. No new impacts will occur as a result of the project and no additional mitigation measures are required. a, b, c) Convert Prime Farmland, conflict with agricultural zoning or convert prime farmland to a non- agricultural use? N.I. The project site is located on lands that were previously occupied by Alameda County.. The County originally owned and operated approximately 950 acres, as the Santa Rita Rehabilitation Center, a prison facility and work farm. The County has relocated the prison facility to the northern portion of the property and declared the remainder (600 acres) surplus, which is currently being developed with a mix of office, retail commercial and residential uses. The site is not identified as prime farmland and is not under Williamson Act Land Conservation Agreement Contract. No impacts as a result of the proposed project are anticipated. III. AIR QUALITY Environmental Setting ' The project Site is located within what the Bay Area Air Quality Management District defines as the Livermore- Diablo Valley, a sheltered inland area surrounded by hills to tlie west, south and east. Most of the airflow into the southern portions of the Valley is accomplished through only two gaps in the hills: the Hayward and Niles canyons. Local wind data show the frequent occurrence of low wind speed and calm conditions (the latter approximately 23 percent of the time). These local limitations on the capacity for horizontal dispersion of air 32 pollutants combined with the regional characteristic of restricted vertical dispersion give the area a high potential for regional air quality problems. Prqiect Impacts Air Quality impacts were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and through various mitigation measures. No new impacts will occur as a result of the project and no additional mitigation measures are required. a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? L.S. The proposed project would .not conflict with the local Clean Air Plan adopted by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District because the amount of non-residential and residential development proposed has been included in Dublin's planned growth as part of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. The project is located approximately 1.5 miles from the Dublin/Pleasanton BART Station and is a mixed-use development that provides housing, goods and services. The Air Quality impacts will be reduced by the mixed-use character of the development and by the use of BART by residents and customers/visitors of the project. Therefore air quality impacts would be less than significant. b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation? L.S. Short-term construction impacts of the project,' including grading and excavation could result in a violation of air quality standards established by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Implementation of Mitigation Measure (3.11/1.0 of the FEIR) will reduce the impact of dust emissions to a level of insignificance. The Eastern Dublin EIR indicates that impacts related to construction equipment, vehicle emissions and stationary source emissions will remain potentially significant even after implementation of Mitigation Measures 3.1172 and 3.11/C/E. A Statement of Overridding Considerations was adopted for this impact, therefore no additional discussion is required. 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? L.S. The Eastern Dublin EIR identifies Mobile Source Emissions and Stationary Source Emissions as significant irreversible impacts. These air quality impacts are typically based on traffic related and Stationary Source emissions. A statement of Overriding Considerations was adopted for these long-term air quality impacts, therefore, no further analysis is necessary,. d, e) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations or create objectionable odors? L.S. The proposed project is a mixed-use development including commercial and residential land uses. Some commercial uses, such as ,grocery, restaurant and other food uses can create odors that may be deemed objectionable to the residential occupants on site. However, through Site Development Review, standard conditions of approval such as the installation of appropriate ventilation and / or scrubbers, it is anticipated that build out of the project site would result in a less than significant impact. IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Environmental Setting The project site is generally vacant with the exception of the south and southwestern portions of the property which are currently being used as a staging area and sales office for the construction and sale of residential units 33 to the west of the site. The remainder of the property is characterized by native and exotic grasses and two mature trees. A stockpile of material has been placed on the northeastern portion of the site from ~ading activities for the adjacent development and roadways. The Eastern Dublin EIR identifies the habitat of the site as 'Dry Farming Rotational Cropland'. This describes fields that would have typically been cropped at various times followed by fallow years. The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan identifies no known wetlands on the site nor the presence of rare, threatened or endangered animal or plant species. Proiect Impacts Biological impacts were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and through various mitigation measures. No new impacts will occur as a result of the project and no additional mitigation measures are required. (a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a candidate, sensitive, or special status species? N.I. Based on information contained in the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment, no candidate, sensitive, or special-status species exist on the site. Mitigation measure 3.7/20 of the Eastern Dubtin FEIR requires that a preconstruction survey be conducted within 60 days prior to grading of the site to verify., the presence of sensitive species. Therefore, no impacts are anticipated as a result of the proposed project. b), c) Have a Jubstantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or federally protected wetlands? N.I. Based on information contained in the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and a site visit, no wetlands or riparian features exist on or adjacent to the subject property,. Therefore, no impacts are anticipated as a result of the proposed project. d) Interfere substantially wit~ the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species? N.I. The project site is located in a developing urban area. Tassajara Creek is located approximately 1200 feet to the west of the site and is separated to it by a residential development of 295 single-family and multi-family units. There are no other stream courses on or in close proximately to the site that could be used as a wildlife migration corridor and no impacts are expected. e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? N.I. The two existing mature trees on site arenot heritage trees under the City's adopted Heritage Tree Ordinance. The Ordinance protects native trees with a trunk diameter of 24 ", measured ~t 4' 6;' above the ground. The on-site trees include a Eucalyptus and nonrnative Oak with a trunk diameter of 30 inches and 23 inches respectively. The proposed project landscaping including a mix of native and non-native trees ~vill more than compensate for the lost of existing on-site trees. 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? N.I. The site is not located within the boundaries of any Habitat Conservation Plans. V. CULTURAL RESOURCES Environmental Setting An analysis of the cultural resources within the eastern Dublin area was conducted as part of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan and associated EIR. No significant archaeological or cultural resources were.identified on the subject property. Proiect Impacts Impacts to Cultural Resources were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and through various mitigation measures. No new impacts will occur as a result of the project and no additional mitigation measures are required. a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in ~15064.57 N.I. The site is generally vacant and does not contain any significant historical resources. Therefore, no impacts are anticipated as a result of the proposed project. b), c), d) Cause a substantial adverse impact or destruction to archaeological, paleontological or human resources? L:S. The project is not anticipated to impact archaeological Or paleontological resources, as no significant sites were identified in the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment. However, any groundbreaking or earthwork which uncovers potentially significant finds will require that earth moving activities cease until the site can be evaluated by a certified archaeologist, to determine the significance of the finds and suggest appropriate mitigation measures. Standardized procedures for evaluating accidental finds and discovery of human remains shall be followed as prescribed in Sections 15064.5 and 15126.4 of the CEQA guidelines. No impacts to culmraI resources are anticipated. VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS Environmental Settina The project site is located within the San Francisco Bay Area, recognized by geologists as one of the most seismically active regions in the United states. There are a number of active faults in the region including the San Andreas fault, located approximately 29 miles southwest of the site. Three other active faults include the Calaveras fault, located about 3 miles southwest of the site, the Greenville fault, located about 8 miles northeast of the site, and the Hayward fault, located about t 0 miles southwest of the site. The likelihood of a major seismic event on one or more of these faults within the near future is believed to be high. The project site is not located within a designated Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone (known formerly as a Special Studies Zone), The Geotechnical Report prepared by Lowney Associates identified that surface soils consist of very stiff silty clay with a high expansion potential. The surficial clays were underlain by interbedded very stiffto hard silty, sandy clays and medium dense to very dense clayey and silty sands that extend to at least 35 feet (maximum depth explored). The site is relatively fiat with a gentle slope from north to south, with the exception of a 120 foot wide, 520 foot long, 20 feet high stockpile along the northeastern portion of the prOperty. This material was placed on the site from grading activities resulting from the development of the adjacent property and the construction of both Park Drive and Central Parkway. The central portion of the site has been overlain with a blanket of fill material to provide equipment and truck access to the stockpiled soils. Vegetation of the undisturbed portion of the site generally consists of low grasses and two mature trees. 35 Project Impacts Impacts to Geology and Soils were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for the Eastem Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and through various mitigation measures. No new impacts will occur as a result of the project and no additional mitigation measures are required. a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury or death involving: i) RuptUre ora known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-t'riolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? N.t. The' site is not located within an Alquist Priolo Special Studies Zones and there are no known active faults that traverse the site. ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? L.S. The project would be subject to strong shaking in the event of a moderate to severe earthquake within the area. Adherence to mitigation measures MM 3.6/1.0 through 8.0 contained in the FEIR will ensure that new structures built on the site will comply with generally recognized seismic safety, standards so that ground-shaking impacts would be less than significant. iii) Seism£C-related ground failure, including liquefaction? N.I. Based on the Geotechnical reports prepared by Lowney Associates, the character of on-site soils are not susceptible to liquefaction. Therefore the potential for liquefaction during seismic shaking is Iow. iv) Landslides? N.I. Based on the Geotechnical reports prepared by Lowney Associates and on information contained in the FEIR, the potential for landslides is iow. b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? L.S. The FEIR notes that an impact of construction development projects within the Specific Plan area would increase erosion and sedimentation caused by grading activities. Mitigation measures 3.5/27 and 28 requires that specific project developers implement interim control measures and appropriate design and construction methods to minimize erosion and sedimentation impacts. With Adherence to these mitigation measures, potential impacts are less than significant. c), d) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or expansive or result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? L.S. The Lowney Associates geotechnical report determined that the site is suitable for the proposed mixed-use development. The report contains a number of recommendations to reduce the impact of expansive soils to a level of insignificance. These measures must be adhered to ensure compliance with the UBC and other safety requirements. Adherence to Mitigation Measures 3.6/14 to 16 contained in the FEIR will also serve to reduce potential lateral spreading and related soil hazards impacts to proposed structures. 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? N. I. The development will be connected to the existing and planned sanitary sewer system. Therefore no impacts to septic tanks or alternative waste water itisposal systems are anticipated. 3~ ~ / VII.HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Environmental Settin,t The project site is generally vacant with the exception of the south and southwestern portions of the property which are currently being used as a staging area and sales office for the construction and sale of residential units to the west of the site. Project Impacts These impacts were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and through various mitigation measures. The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Action Program 11.1 requires that prior to the issuance of building permits a site specific Phase 1 (and if necessary Phase 2) environmental site assessments be made available to the Community Development Director, with appropriate documentation that all recommended remediation actions have been completed. No new impacts will occur as a result of the project and no additional mitigation measures are required. a) Oeate a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? N.I. The proposed mixed-use (residential/retail commercial) development would not use or cause t.O be used 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? N.I. The proposed mixed-use (residential/retail commercial) development would not use or cause to be used hazardous materials. c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? N.I. The proposed mixed-use (residential/retail commercial) development would not use or cause to be used hazardous materials. 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? L.S. The FEIR requires that a Phase 1 (and if necessary a Phase 2) environmental site assessment be prepared prior to the issuance of a grading permit for the development. With adherence to the requirements of this Action program there would be less than significant impacts regarding hazardous materials. 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 site ? N.I. The project site is located approximately 2.5 miles northwesterly of the Livermore Municipal Airport and is located outside of the general referral area. No impacts are anticipated as a result of this project. 29 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 site? N.I. The project site is not located within the vicinity of a private airstrip. No impacts are anticipated as a result of this project. g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? N.I. Adequate emergency access has been provided via proposed driveways to adjacent 37 Central Parkway, Park Drive, Dublin Boulevard and Tassaj ara Road, which provide easy access to 1-580. No impacts are anticipated as a result of this project. 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? N.I. The project site is located in a developing urban area and will not be adjacent to open space. No impacts are anticipated as a result of this project. VIII. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Environmental Setting No surface water exists on the property. The nearest water source is Tassajara Creek which is located approximately 1200 feet ro the west. The site is relatively flat with a gentle slope from north to south. There are no water supply lines or wells of record on the property. Prqiect Impacts These impact.s-were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and through various mitigation measures. No new impacts will occur as a result of the project and no additional mitigation measures are required. a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements? L.S. The development of this site would result in the conversion of vacant land to an urban use and thereby increasing water runoff and creating a potential for storm water pollution. This impact was addressed in the FEIR. Mitigation measures 3.5/53, 54 and 55 requires all future development to meet the requirements of the City of Dublin's "Best Management Practices" to mitigate storm water pollution, the water quality requirements of the City of Dublin's NPDES permit and the water quality requirements of the Alameda County. Urban Runoff Clean Water Program. With adherence to these mitigation measures, impacts to water quality, would be reduced to less than significant. b) Substantially deplete groundwater recharge areas or lowering of the local groundwater table level?£.S. Lowney and Associates conducted a preliminary geotechnical investigation of the site and drilled four exploratory borings to depths ranging from 15 to 35 feet. Grotmdwater was not encountered during the investigations. The FEIR addressed impacts to groundwater supplies (Impact 3.5/z) as potentially significant, with the implementation of mitigation measures (3.5/49 and 50) outlined in the FEIR, this impact would be reduced to less than significant. 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? L.S. The development of the site will involve grading and construction of the storm water system. The quantity and rate of stormwater flow shall adhere to the Santa Rita Drainage Master Plan, in accordance with mitigation measures identified in the FEIR. 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 which would result inflooding on- or off-site? L.S. The development of this site would not significantly alter drainage patterns in the area. Existing surface drainage flows would be slightly altered due to anticipated site grading. 38 Drainage will be collected through the proposed on-site storm water system and will connect to existing and planned drainage improvements within eastern Dublin. The project site lies outside of the 100-year flood elevation. 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?. L.S. Construction of on-site improvements will increase stormwater runoff. A condition of project approval will require that the mount and rate of storm water runoff shall conform with the Santa Rita Drainage Master Plan, in accordance with mitigation measures identified in the Program FEIR. This is considered a less than significant impact. f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? L.S. See response to (a) above. g) Place housing within a ] O0-year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood[nsurance Rate Map or otherflood hazard delineation map? N.I. The project site is nor located within a 100-year or 500-year flood hazard area. The property lies within Flood Zone X (an area outside of the 500-year flood) per the FIRM (Flood Insurance Rate Map) Flood Map, community number 060705-0021 B, dated September 17. 1997. No impacts to housing are anticipated. h, i) Place within a ] O0-year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect flood flows including dam failures? N.I. The project site is not located within a 100-year flood hazard area. No impacts are expected.. Expose people or structures to a significant risk o floss, injury or death involving inundation by seiche, tsunam£ or mudflow? N.I. No open body of water exists on the site or within an appropriate distance from the site that could result in a seiche. The project site is not located within an area susceptible to landslides, therefore no impacts as a result ofmudslides are anticipated. IX. .LAND USE AND PLANNING Environmental Setting The project site is located within the boundaries of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, which was adopted by the City in 1994 for the purpose of guiding furore growth in the eastern portions of the City. The Eastern Dublin Specific P1an / General Plan designation for the property is General Commercial. The City Council in August 1998, amended the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan to add Program 4J(a) to limit permitted uses on the site to · neighborhood commercial uses. The project proposes a mixed-use development consisting of multi-family residential units and a neighborhood shopping center. The proposed development is consistent with the policies and intent of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan which strongly encourages mixed-use development as a means of reducing auto traffic, efficiently using developable land and creating a vital retail environment. Although, the project proposes that allocation of residential un/ts to the site, in combination with previous changes to the location and density of residential uses within the Santa Rita Property, the pattern and density of uses would be substantially similar to that anticipated in the Specific Plan. The overall number of dwellings units within the Santa Rita Property is the same as that approved by the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. Project Impacts a) Physically divide an established community? N.I. The development of this site has been planned as part of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. The proposed uses will be compatible with surrounding land uses and will not 39 divide an existing community. b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation o fan 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? N.I. The project is consistent with the intent and policies of the Dublin General Plan, Eastern Dublin Specific Plan and the Dublin Zoning Ordinance. c) Conflict with. any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan? N.I. The City has no adopted habitat conservation or natural community conservation plan that applies to the project or the vicinity. X. MINERAL RESOURCES Environmental Settin~ The project site is generally vacant. Based on the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment, there are no known mineral resources on the property. Proiect Impacts Impacts to Mineral Resources were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for tl~e Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and through various mitigation measures. No new impacts wilI occur as a result of the project and no additional mitigation measures are required. Result in the loss of availability ora known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents ofthz state? NI. The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan does not indicate the presence of significant resources of minerals on the property. Therefore, no impacts are anticipated as a result of this project. Result in the loss of availability ora locally-important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general]alan, specific plan or other land use plan? N.I. The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan does not indicate the presence of significant resources of minerals on the property. Therefore, no impacts are anticipated as a result of this project. XI. NOISE Environmental Setting The major som'ces of noise in the vicinity of the project include noise generated by traffic on Tassajara Road. Central Parkway, Dublin Boulevard and distant noise generated by traffic on'I-580, by training activities on Camp Parks and the County Sheriff's property to the north and occasional aircraft flyovers. Edward Pack Associates, Inc Acoustical Consultants have conducted a Noise Assessment Study of existing and future noise levels at the site. At future build-out of Tassajara Road (six-lane arterial) and Central Parkway (four-lane roadway) the projected noise levels at the building setback lines (30 feet from right-of-way) wilI be 66dBA and 71 dBA for @entral Parkway and Tassajara Road, respectively. Project Impacts Noise Impacts were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and through various mitigation measures. 40 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? LS/M The Dublin General Plan'states that all new housing exposed to a CNEL of 60 dB or less is considered 'normally acceptable' and housing exposed to a CNEL of between 60 and 70 dB is considered 'conditionally acceptable' with the installation of noise insulation features. One of the implementing policies of the General Plan Noise Element discusses new soundwalls for housing located along 1-680, otherwise, residents would be exposed to a CNEL exceeding 65 dB. Therefore an exterior residential noise environment of between 60 and 70 dBA is 'conditionally acceptable' with the installation of noise insulation features but a noise environment of 65 dBA would be acceptable. The General Plan identifies the maximum indoor noise level for residential areas as 45 dBA. Construction of the residential portion.of the project would expose future residents of units with a direct or side view of Tassajara Road to outdoor noise levels in excess of that considered 'normally acceptable' in the Dublin General Plan. The following Mitigation Measures are recommended to reduce exterior and interior noise impacts on the project to a less than significant level. Mitigation Measure la: Prior to the issuance of a building permit the applicant shall verify that acoustically-effective patio fences/railings shall be constructed at all first through fourth floor balconies with. a direct or side view of Tassajara Road to reduce the exterior patio levels to 67 dBA at ground floor patios and 66 dBA or lower at upper floor patios as follows: All patios within 110 feet of the centerline of Tassajara Road and with a direct or side view of the road shall be constructed with 6 fi high acoustical-effective patio fences at all first floor patios, 54 in. high acoustical- effective patio balconies at all second floor patios, 48 inch high acoustical-effective patio balconies at alt third floor patios and 42 inch high acoustical-effective patio balconies at all fourth floor patios. All patios within 175 feet of the centerline of Tassajara Road and with a direct or side view of the road shall be constructed with 6 Pr high aCoustical-effective patio fences at all first floor patios, 48 in. high acoustical- effective patio balconies at alt second floor patios, 42 inch high acoustical-effective patio balconies at all third and fourth floor patios. o Ali patios within 320 feet of the centerline of Tassajara Road and with a direct or side view of the road shall be constructed with 6 ft high acoustical-effective patio fences at all first floor patios, 42 in. high acoustical- effective patio balconies at all second, third and fourth floor patios. 4. Acoustically-effective materials to be used shall be as specified in the Noise Assessment Study prepared by Edward Pack and Associates and on-file with the. Planning Department. Mitigation Measure 1 b: Prior to the issuance of a building permit the applicant shall verify that the interior noise levels shall not exceed 45 dBA as follows: 1. All units along the perimeter of building 3 facing north, south or east shall be installed with window rated minimum-Sound Transmission Class (STC) 31 or higher. Install windows rated minimum STC 28 in all other living spaces. o All units of building 1 and 2 with living spaces facing Central Parkway and Tassajara Road shall be installed with window rated minimum Sound Transmission Class (STC) 28. 41 3. Install mechanical ventilation in affected units to ensure a habitable environment as specified by the Uniform Building Code. 4. Construction plans shall be stamped approved by the qualified acoustical consultant Impact 3.1 OFF of the FEIR identified that noise conflicts due to the presence of adjacent residential and commercial uses within a mixed-use project is considered a potentially significant impact. With the implementation of Mitigation Measure 3.10/6.0, which requires the preparation of a Noise Management Plan this impact will be reduced to a level of insignificance. A Noise Management Plan has been prepared by Edward Pack and Associates (and is on file at the Dublin Planning Department) to evaluate the future noise environment and to propose recommendations to minimize or avoid potential noise problems. The following Mitigation Measure is recommended to reduce noise conflicts of the project to a less than significant level. Mitigation Measure lc: The commercial developer/shopping center management shall ensure on an on-going basis that: 1. All deliveries and loading operations shall occur during the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. to minimize noise impacts affecting nearby residents. Trash pick-ups shall occur during the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. to minimize noise impacts affecting nearby residents. Containers with plastic lids shall be used to minimize the "banging" sound of steel lids. Roof-top and mechanical equipment shall be shielded with air-tight panels to obstruct the view from anv residential unit and to minimize noise impacts on residents. Equipment with the lowest Sound Power Levels (acoustic output) shall be chosen by the mechanical engineer. b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? L.S. Construction of the proposed project would not result in long-term increase in ground vibration, since the project is a mixed-use development involving multi-family residential units and neighborhood commercial shopping center. c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? L.S. The FEIR identified that permanent noise impacts to existing residences related to traffic noise and the noise impacts to existing and proposed residences generated by training Activities on Camp Parks and the County property to the north would be an unavoidable significant impact. A Statement of Overriding Considerati ons was adopted. No further analysis is required. d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? L.S. Construction of the proposed project would increase short-term noise levels during the construction period for the project. Mitigation Measures 3.10/4 and 5 of the FEIR would require individual project builders to prepare construction noise management plans to minimize noise as well as adhere to construction hour limitations. Therefore, short-term construction noise impacts would be considered less than significant impact. e, f) For a project located within an airport land use plan or within the vicinity ofa private airstrip, or within two miles ora public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project site to excessive noise levels? N.I. The project site is not located within the vicinity ora private airstrip. 42 The project site is located approximately 2.5 miles northwesterly of the Livermore Municipal Airport and is located outside of the general referral area. The FEIR determined that the exposure of proposed development to - aircraft noise including occasional aircraft flyovers would be insignificant and no mitigation is required. XII. POPULATION AND HOUSING Environmental Setting The City of Dublin's population as of January 1, 1999, was estimated by the State Department of Finance to be 28, 707. Significant population growth is anticipated for the City based on planned residential growth in Eastern Dublin and Western Dublin (Schaefer Ranch). According to the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), the total population of Dublin is expected to be 33,300 in 2000, and is expected to increase to 42, 800 by the 2005 and 50,900 in the year 2010. Project Impacts 'Population and Housing Impacts were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment. Growth inducing impacts associated with the development of housing and increased population as a result of the adopted Specific Plan were analyzed in the FEIR. The adoption of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan signified the City's intent to introduce urban development in a predominately rural area. No new impacts will occur as a result of the project and no additional mitigation measures are required. , a) Induce substantial p°Pulation growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension ox'roads or other infrastructure)? L.S. The proposed 'mixed-use project consisting of residential and non-residential uses have been included in Dublin's planned growth as part of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, The potential population growth is considered less than significant impact. b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? N.I. The site is currently vacant. Construction of the proposed project would not displace housing units. No impacts are anticipated as a result of this project. c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing etse~,vhere ? N.I. The site is currently vacant. Construction of the proposed project would not displace any people. No impacts are anticipated as a result of this project. XIII. PUBLIC SERVICES Environmental Setting The project site is served by the following service providers: o Fire Protection. Fire protection is provided by the Alameda County Fire Department, under contract to the City of Dublin, which provides structural fire suppression, rescue, hazardous materials control and public education services. 43 · Police Protection. Police protection is provided by the Alameda County Sheriff, under contract to the City Of Dublin. The Department, which maintains a sworn staff of 31 officers, performs a range of public safety services including patrol, investigation, traffic safety and public education. · Schools. Educational facilities are' provided by the Dublin Unified School District that operates kindergarten through high school services within the community. Schools which would serve the project include Dublin High School (grades 9-12) and Wells Middle School (graded 6-8). Grades K-5 could be served by one of three elementary schools within the District. · Maintenance. The City of Dublin provides public facility maintenance, including roads, parks, street trees and other public facilities. Dublin's Civic Center is located at 100 Civic Plaza. · Other eovernmental' services. Other governmental services are provided by the City of Dublin including community development and building services and related governmental services. Library service is provided by the Alameda County Library with supplemental funding by the City of Dublin. The City of Dublin has adopted a Public Facilities Fee for all new residential and non-residential development in the community for the purpose of financing new municipal public facilities needed by such development. Facilities anr'i'cipated to be funded by the proposed fee would include completion of the Civic Center Complex, construction of a new library, expansion of the existing senior center, acquisition and development of new community and neighborhood parks and similar municipal buildings and facilities. The applicant would be required to pay this fee. Project Impacts Impacts to Public Services were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and through various mitigation measures. No new impacts will occur as a result of the project and no additional mitigation measures are required. 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: Fire Protection? L.S. According to representatives of the Alameda County Fire Department, the proposed project ties within a one and one-half mile radius of fire station 15 located north of Gleason Drive. A typical response time of less than five minutes is anticipated. As part of the site development review process, specific fire protection requirements will be imposed on the development to ensure compliance with applicable provisions of the Uniform Fire Code. The developer will be required to pay fire impact fee to fund the construction of new fire stations within the Specific Plan area and would reduce any impacts to less than significant. Police Protection? L.S. According to representatives of the Dublin Police Services, adequate resources presently exist to serve the proposed development. As part of the site development review process, specific police protection requirements will be imposed on the development to ensure adequate security and would reduce any impacts to less than significant. 44 Schools? LS. The project proposed a mixed-use development including 390 one and two-bedroom units and approximately 133,500 square feet of retail commercial development. School fees in accordance to State Law would be charged at building permit issuance and any impacts would be less than significant. Parks? L.S. The developer/property owner will be required to dedicate land for the City Park located east of Tassajara Creek, north of Central Parkway in accordance with Chapter 9.28 of the Municipal Code (Quimby Act Ordinance) and pay all applicable park fees and any impacts would be less than significant. Other Public Facilities? L.S. The deve!opmem of the project site would represent incremental increases in the demand for general governmental services. Payment of the Ciw's Public Facility Fee is required and any impacts would be less than significant. XlV. RECREATION 'Environmental Setting A new 56-acre City Park is currently under construction directly north of the project site across Central Parkway. The mixed-use development will include three courtyards for passive recreation/enjoyment by future residents and_a pool/patio area. Proiect Impacts Recreation Impacts were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and through various mitigation measures. No. new impacts will occur as a result of the project and no additional mitigation measures are required. a) I/Vould 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? N.I, The recreational need of future population in eastern Dublin has been addressed in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. The Specific Plan has set aside 240 acres of parkland in three community parks to meet anticipated demand. The proposed project has been included in this planned growth. With the adherence to mitigation measures of the FEIR which reqUire that developers dedicate land / pay in-lieu fees and pay impact fees to fund future parks, no impacts would be anticipated as a result of this project. b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities that might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? N.I. The recreational need of future populatiOn in eastern Dublin has been addressed in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. The Specific Plan has set aside 240 acres of parkland in three community parks to meet anticipated demand. With the adherence to mitigation measures of the FEIR, the project would not impact the provision of recreational facilities in the area. XV. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC Environmental Setting Major roadways serving the site include: Interstate 580 is a eight-lane east-west freeway that connects Dublin with local cities such as Livermore and Tracy to the east and Oakland and Hayward to the west. In the vicinity of the proposed project, 1-580 45 carries between 169,000 and 187,000 vehicles per day. Interchanges near the site include Dougherty Road/Hopyard Road, Hacienda Drive, Tassajara Road/Santa Rita Road, and Fallon Road/E1 Charro Road. Dougherty Road is a two-lane rural road with its northern section located in Contra Costa County. It is four lanes between the Alameda/Contra Costa County border and Dublin Boulevard and six lanes between Dublin Boulevard and 1-580, it continues with six lanes as Hopyard Road in the City of Pleasanton. Average Daily Traffic is approximately 43,500 vehicles per day south of Dublin Boulevard. Dublin Boulevard is a major east-west arterial in the City of Dublin. It is a four-lane road fronted largely by retail and commercial uses west of Dougherty Road. Dublin Boulevard between Dougherty Road and Tassajara Road is a two-lane road, with an exception between Hacienda Drive and Tassajara Creek where Dublin Boulevard is a four lane road. Dublin Boulevard is currently being widened to six lanes from the Standard Pacific right-or-way to Hacienda Drive and from Tassajara Road. Average Daily traffic varies from 29,300 vehicles per day east of San Ramon Road to 5,300 vehicles per day west of Tassajara Road. Hacienda Drive is an arterial designed to provide access to 1-580. It is a six-lane arterial south oft-580. Currently, Hacienda Drive has four-lanes north of 1-580 and extends as far north as Dublin Boulevard. As part of the Santa Rita Business Center project, Hacienda Drive has been extended northward to Gleason Drive as ~'three-lane roadway. Between 1-580 and Dublin Boulevard, the existing Average Daily Traffic on Hacienda Drive is a approximately 11,200 vehicles per day. Arnold Drive is a north-south two-lane road parallel to and west of Hacienda Drive. It currently connects Gleason Drive and existing Dublin Boulevard (Future Central Parkway). Arnold Road is currently being extended southward to Dublin Boulevard (ultimate alignment). The existing Average Daily Traffic on Arnold Road is approximately 3,500 vehicles per day. Gleason Drive is an east-west two-lane road parallel to and north of Dublin Boulevard. It currently serves the Santa Rita Rehabilitation Center, the Federal Correctional Institution and the developments along Gleason Drive. Gleason Drive connects Tassajara Road with Amotd Road. The Average Daily Traffic varies from 5,100 vehicles per day west of Tassajara Road to 1;000 vehicles per day west of Hacienda Drive. Tassajara Road is a two-lane rural road which connects with Santa Rita Road at 1-580 to the south and continues north to the Town of Danville. North of the Contra Costa County line, it is named Camino Tassajara. Camino Tassajara is used primarily for local traff~c in the Tassajara Valley, with some through traffic. The Ax~erage Daily Traffic on Tassajara Road is 16,800 vehicles per day south of Dublin Boulevard, 9,900 vehicles per day between Dublin Boulevard and Gleason Drive and 7,500 vehicles per day north of Gleason Drive. The road is currently being widened to four lanes from 1-580 to North Dublin Ranch Drive. Santa Rita Road is a six-lane divided urban arterial from the 1-580 interchange south to. Valley Avenue. It serves the east side of Pleasanton, including the Hacienda Business Park, and provides access to the downtown Pleasanton area. £xisting _Intersection Operations The'traffic analysis prepared by TJKM, dated March 20, 2000 (on-file with the Dublin Planning Department) found that existing intersections near the project site currently operate at acceptable levels of service, defined by the City of Dublin as Level of Service D or better. This analysis included counts of existing traffic at major intersections near the proposed project as well as intersections throughout the eastern Dublin .area. Future Baseline Conditions To implement the transportation and circulation aspects of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan, the City of Dublin has undertaken a comprehensive program of transportation improvements in the community-. The purpose of this program is to accommodate anticipated traffic from the Eastern Dublin area. Overall, the program includes upgrades to 1-580 freeway intersections, construction of new roads and improvements to existing roads. The program is primarily funded by fees levied on new development in eastern Dublin. A summary of major components of the Transportation Improvement Program adopted bv the City is as follows. A full description of improvements is contained in the traffic analysis on file with the Dublin Planning Department. · Tassajara..Road Widening · Dublin Boulevard Widening · Central Parkway Extension · Park Drive Construction Future Baseline Intersection Operations The traffic impact analysis for this project also analyzed the future baseline intersection operations with existing traffic and traffic from approved but not yet built or occupied development. The traffic analysis concluded that the intersections studied would operate at unacceptable levels of service, as Level of service F or better. However, with the implementation of various mitigation measures, the Level of Service would operate at acceptable levels of service, as level of service D or better. The proposed mitigation measures are consistent with the City's Transportation Improvement program listed above. Project Impacts Traffic and Circulation Impacts were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and through various mitigation measures. a) Cause an increase in traffic that is substantial in relation to the, existing traffic load and capacity of the street system? LS/M. The traffic analysis prepared by TJKM determined that the development of the proposed Emerald Glen Village Center inconjunction with planned traffic improvements and mitigation measures associated with approved projects would not have a significant impact on major intersections in the area. Alt study intersections near the project would operate at satisfactory, LOS 'D' or better conditions. However, the anticipated traffic volume at the proposed project entrances and nearby minor intersections would have a potentially significant impact. Signal warrantg for the intersection of Hibernia Drive/Central Parkway would be met to require the installation of a traffic signal at this intersection. The intersections of Arnold Road/Central Parkway and Tassajara Road/The Avenue (project entrance) will require signalization to maintain safe traffic flow at these intersections due to increased peak hour turning volumes generated by the proposed development. With the implementation of the mitigation measure listed below, the impacts to local streets and nearby intersections would be reduced to a less than significant level. 47 Mitigation Measure 2: The project developer shall install traffic sign,als at the following intersections: · Hibernia Drive/Central Parkway · Arnold Road/Central Parkway · Tassajara Road/The Avenue (project entrance) b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of service standard established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? N.I. Based on the information contained in the TJKaM traffic analysis, all nearby intersections can be mitigated to Level o£ Service D or better, which exceeds the minimum Level o£ Service E established by the Alameda County Congestion Management Agency. ImpacTs to CMA-designated facilities would therefore be less than significant. 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? N.I. The proposed project involves a mixed-use development and would therefore, have no impact on air traffic patterns. d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections). N.I. ' The on-site circulation and access has been designed to adequately and safely distribute projected traffic flows. The City's site development review process ensures that the proposed development meets ail City standards relating to safety hazards, design features and access. No impacts are anticipated as a result of this project. e) Result in inadequate emergency access? N.I. The site has been designed with adequate emergency access. As part of the City's Site Development Review process, specific Fire, Police and Public Work's departments have reviewed the proposed site plan. No impacts are anticipated as a result of this project. f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? LS/M Parking for the proposed multi-family residential portion of the project ~vould not comply with the minimum number of on-site parking spaces required by the City's parking regulations. The regulations require the provision of two parking spaces (one covered and one uncovered for unreserved and guest parking) per dwelling unit. It has been' City practice to allow a portion of the unreserv'ed parking spaces for residential projects to be located on-street. Due to the peculiarities of this site, there is limited on-street parking available on Park Drive and Central Parkway and no on-street parking available on either Tassajara Road or Dublin Boulevard. In addition, a City Park is located north of Central Parkway and a townhouse/single family project is under construction west of Park Drive, the patrons of which will compete for limited on-street parking in the area. There is limited opportunity for the project to augment the proposed on-site parking with on-street parking. The project as proposed would supplY on-site parking at a ratio of 1.85 spaces per dwelling unit or 722 spaces. Although the BART station is located within 1.5 miles and bus stops are planned near the site there could still be a potentially significant impact with regard to accommodating future tenant and visitor parking at the complex. The applicant has prepared a parking study to determine an appropriate parking ratio for the project. The study reviewed the current supply of parking stalls and current parking demand at a number of apartment complexes in Dublin and Pleasanton. Given the peculiarities of the site and the inability to provide substantial on-street parking to augment the number of parking stalls available on-site, there is inSufficient evidence at this time, to indicate that a lower parking ratio would meet the parking demand generated by the project. The following Mitigation Measure is recommended to reduce parking impacts to a less than significant level. 48 Mitigation Measure 3: Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, the project developer shall provide parking for the project in compliance with the City's parking regulations. g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs supporting alternative transportation (e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks)? N.I. The proposed Emerald Glen Village Center development would include on-site bicycle parking as well as connections between proposed residential and non-residential buildings and nearby streets. No impacts to pedestrian or bicycle access is anticipated. X¥I. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS -- Environmental Settino_ The project site is served by the following service providers: · Electrical and natural gas power: Pacific Gas and Electric Company · Communications: Pacific Bell · Water supply and sewage treatment: Dublin San Ramon Services District · Storm drainage: City of Dublin · Solid waste disposal: Dublin-Livermore Disposal Company · Cable Television: TCI Proiect Impacts Impacts to these items were addressed in the earlier analysis of the FEIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment and through various mitigation measures. No new impacts will occur as a result of the project and no additional mitigation measures are required. Would the project: a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board? L.S. The regional wastewater treatment plant is currently in compliance with local and federal water quality standards. The addition of wastewater flow from the project would not cause the plant to exceed such standards. Mitigation measures 3.5/1.0 through 22.0 'contained in the FEIR deal with wastewater treatment collectionl treatment and disposal. Adherence to these mitigation measures will reduce potential wastewater impacts of the project to a level of less than significance. 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? N.I. Existing water and sewer lines would need to be extended into the site from Tassajara Road and Dublin Boulevard. Such extensions have been planned as part of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan and have been analyzed as part of the FEIR. No new impacts are anticipated as a result of the proposed project. 49 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? N.I. As part of the development on- site drainage facilities would be constructed. A condition of project approval would require alt drainage to conform to the Santa Rita Master Drainage Plan. 'No new impacts are anticipated as a result of this project. d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? N.I.. The amount of water demand required by the proposed project could be accommodated by DSRSD and Zone 7 facilities and long-term supplies. No new impacts are anticipated as a result of this project. e) Result in a determination by the wasteveater treatmentprovider 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? N.I. Based on information in the FEIR, DSRSD has sufficient wastewater capacity to serve the proposed development. No new impacts are anticipated as a result of this project. f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs? NI. The City of Dublin contracts with Livermore-Dublin Disposal Company to collect solid waste from households and businesses and transport it to the Altamont Landfill located in eastern Alameda County.. The landfill currently has an anticipated capacity until the year 2005 and plans are underway to extend landfill capacity for an additional 50 years. g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste? NI. The Livermore- Dublin Disposal Company will ensure that all federal, state and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste are met. XVII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE a) b) c) Does the project have the potentidl 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 endangeredPlant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? N.I. The preceding analysis indicates that the proposed project will not have a significant adverse impact on overall environmental quality, including biological resources or cultural resources with the implementation of mitigation measures contained in the Final EIR prepared for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan / General Plan Amendment. 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 fimtre projects)? N. I. Although incremental increases in certain areas can be expected as a result of constructing this project, ;the project lies within an approved specific plan whose cumulative effects were previously reviewed 'in the Eastern Dublin FEIR. Does the project have environmental effects that will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? N.I. No such impacts were identified in preparing this Initial Study. 50