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HomeMy WebLinkAbout8.1 Attch 4 Initial Study/Neg Dec CITY OF DUBLIN CITY OF NEGATIVE DECLARATION DUBLIN 100 Civic Plaza Project Title: City of Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan Dublin,California 94568 Phone:(925)833-6650 Description of Project: Consideration of the City of Dublin Bicycle and Fax:(92S)833-6651 Pedestrian Master Plan that would encourage walking and bicycling within the community.The Plan includes recommendations for specific implementing projects along certain major roadways in Dublin.The project also includes Amendments to the Dublin General Plan, Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, Downtown Dublin Specific Plan, Dublin Village Historic Area Specific Plan and Zoning Ordinance to ensure consistency between these documents and the Plan. Project Location: City-wide applicability Name of Proponent: City of Dublin Attn: Ferd Del Rosario,Senior Civil Engineer Public Works Department loo Civic Plaza Dublin,CA 94568 City Council Determination: I hereby find that the above project could not have (925)833-6650 a significant effect on the environment and a City Manager NEGATIVE DECLARATION has been re ared. (925)833-6650 p p Community Development i (925)833-6610 Economic Development (925)833.6650 Finance/Adman Services Gafy Huisingh, Public Works Director Date (925)833-6640 Fire Prevention (925)833-6606 The Initial Study documenting the reasons to support the above finding and Draft Human Resources City of Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan are available for public review on (925)833-6605 Parks&Community Services the City of Dublin Public Works Department webpage at www.dubl n.ca.gov and at (925)556-4500 the City of Dublin, Public Works Department, loo Civic Plaza, Dublin, CA 94568 Police (925)833-6670 during normal business hours. Public Works/Engineering (925)833-6630 Attachments Date Published:_ Dublin Date Posted: _ krAhl Date Notice Mailed: MAnduft Considered by: On: N.O.D. filed: 2011 Council Resolution No. wvnv.dublin.ca.gov ATTACHMENT 4 Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan INITIAL ST UDYI NEGATIVE DECLARATION Lead Agency: City of Dublin Prepared By: Jerry Haag,Urban Planner June,2014 Table of Contents Project Sponsor & Contact Person..............................................................................2 ProjectLocation and Context......................................................................................2 ProjectDescription........................................................................................................2 Environmental Factors Potentially Affected.............................................................12 Evaluation of Environmental Impacts.......................................................................13 Attachmentto Initial Study.........................................................................................26 1. Aesthetics...............................................................................................26 2. Agricultural Resources.........................................................................27 3. Air Quality.............................................................................................27 4. Biological Resources.............................................................................28 5. Cultural Resources................................................................................29 6. Geology and Soils .................................................................................30 7. Greenhouse Gas Emissions..................................................................30 8. Hazards and Hazardous Materials ....................................................31 9. Hydrology and Water Quality............................................................32 10. Land Use and Planning........................................................................33 11. Mineral Resources.................................................................................34 12. Noise.......................................................................................................34 13. Population and Housing......................................................................35 14. Public Services.......................................................................................35 15. Recreation...............................................................................................36 16. Transportation/Traffic.........................................................................37 17. Utilities and Service Systems...............................................................38 18. Mandatory Findings of Significance..................................................38 InitialStudy Preparers .................................................................................................40 Agencies and Organizations Consulted....................................................................40 References ......................................................................................................................40 City of Dublin Environmental Checklist/ Initial Study This Initial Study has been prepared in accord with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA) and assesses the potential environmental impacts of implementing the proposed project described below. The Initial Study consists of a completed environmental checklist and a brief explanation of the environmental topics addressed in the checklist. Project Sponsor & Contact Person City of Dublin Public Works Department 100 Civic Plaza Dublin CA 94568 (925) 833 6630 Attn: Ferd Del Rosario, PE,Senior Civil Engineer Project Location and Context The City of Dublin Planning Area consists of approximately 18.76 square miles of land area lying in eastern Alameda County, also known as the Livermore-Amador Valley, or the Tri-Valley area. Surrounding jurisdictions include the City of San Ramon and unincorporated Contra Costa County to the north,unincorporated Alameda County to the east and west and the cities of Pleasanton and Livermore to the south. Exhibits 1 and 2 show the location of Dublin in relation to surrounding communities and other major features. Project Description The project being considered by the City of Dublin is the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan(to be identified as the "Plan" in this document) dated June 2014. The proposed Plan would update and replace the City's existing Bikeways Master Plan adopted in 2007.The proposed Plan reflects the recently updated Circulation and Scenic Highways Element of the General Plan and the Downtown Dublin Specific Plan. Existing Bikeways Master Plan. The City adopted a Bikeways Master Plan in 2007 that primarily addressed existing and future bicycle lanes, trails, and related improvements in the community. The existing Master Plan does not address pedestrian facilities, which is now required under the state-mandated "Complete Streets" program. City of Dublin Page 2 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Existing Bicycle Facilities. The City of Dublin currently provides an extensive network of bicycle facilities. These include: • Class I bicycle grade-separated paths that may include sharing with other recreational users. • Class II bicycle lanes, including separated bike lanes on streets. • Class II bicycle routes, which consist of signed bike routes on existing streets. The City currently maintains approximately 24 miles of Class I bike paths, 25 miles of Class II bike lanes and 0.3 mile of Class II routes. Bicycle lanes and paths are generally located on or adjacent to north-south or east-west arterial roads,including but not limited to San Ramon Road, Village Parkway, Dougherty Road, Hacienda Drive,Tassajara Road, Fallon Road, Dublin Boulevard, Amador Valley Boulevard, Gleason Drive and Central Parkway. Class I bike facilities are also located along local and regional trail facilities maintained by the East Bay Regional Park District or the City of Dublin. These include the Iron Horse Trail, the Alamo Canal trail, the Alamo Creek Trail and the Tassajara Creek Trail. Existing Pedestrian Facilities. The City of Dublin maintains public sidewalks adjacent to most major streets, generally eight feet wide in commercial areas.Striped pedestrian crosswalks are also provided at major roadway intersections. Many larger commercial developments provide for on-site pedestrian facilities between parking areas and retail stores. The same Class I bicycle facilities located within local and regional trails noted above may also be used by pedestrians. The Plan notes that pedestrian circulation facilities are generally lacking in the Downtown Dublin area due to long commercial blocks. Proposed Plan Vision Statement and Goals. The Plan includes the following Vision Statement guiding the plaruung for future bicycle and pedestrian facilities: " The purpose of the City of Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan is to provide a policy and implementation framework for maintaining and improving bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure in the City to provide safe, comfortable and attractive facilities that meet the needs of users of all ages and abilities and connect users with key destinations—schools, residential neighborhoods, parks, shopping areas and job centers-within the City and adjacent jurisdictions." The following goals are set forth in the Plan: • Goal 1: Support bicycling and walking as practical, healthy and convenient alternatives to automobile use in Dublin. • Goal 2: Implement a well-connected active transportation system to attract users of all ages and abilities. City of Dublin Page 3 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 • Goal 3: Incorporate the needs and concerns of bicyclists and pedestrians in all transportation and development projects. • Goal 4:Support infrastructure investments with targeted bicycle and pedestrian education, encouragement, enforcement and evaluation programs. • Goal 5: Maximize multi-modal connections in the transportation network. • Goal 6: Improve bicycle and pedestrian safety Citywide. Proposed Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvements. Exhibit 3 depicts existing and proposed bicycle improvements in Dublin.This is also Figure 5-2 contained in the Plan. Further, the Plan establishes a listing of specific construction projects in the community that are intended to implement the ultimate bicycle and pedestrian system. These projects are prioritized as Tier Zero, Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3 improvements and are described below. • Tier Zero Projects: These projects are those that are assumed to be implemented in the near future since they generally have been designed and necessary funding secured and may be under construction. • Tier One Projects:Bicycle and Pedestrian improvement projects in this classification are identified as high priority projects proposed to be implemented following Tier Zero projects. The focus of improvements would be on major roadways in or adjacent to downtown Dublin. Future specific implementing projects are anticipated to include enhanced landscaping along these roadways, adding bicycle lanes and/or shared pathways, widening existing sidewalks, adding "bulb-outs" at intersections to improve pedestrian usability, pedestrian lighting improvements and installing wayfinding signs. A bridge overcrossing is proposed between Clark Street and the Alamo Trail Canal near the Civic Center. - Amador Plaza Road between Amador Valley Boulevard and St. Patrick Way/I-580 ramps.Sidewalk and crosswalk improvements,bicycle lanes, pedestrian-scale lighting and a landscaped median are proposed for the 0.5 mile segment. - Village Parkway between northern City limits and Clark Avenue/Dublin Boulevard. A variety of complete streets improvements are proposed on the 1.8-mile segment, including crossing improvements, dedicated bicycle facilities, and a path connection to the Alamo Canal Trail. - Downtown Dublin connectivity projects, including pedestrian and bicycle improvements to Regional Street,Amador Valley Boulevard,Village Parkway, Amador Plaza Road, St. Patrick Way and Dublin Boulevard.This project would create a continuous network of dedicated facilities to provide last-mile connections to Downtown business and transit destinations.The existing wide bicycle lanes on Amador Valley Boulevard would be restriped City of Dublin Page 4 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 to include a buffer area to provide separation between bicyclists and drivers. Class IIA Bicycle Lanes on St. Patrick Way would provide an east-west connection connecting Regional Street and Amador Plaza Road. Class IIA Bicycle Lanes on Regional Street would then provide a north-south connection through Downtown, connecting to the proposed facilities on St. Patrick Way and Amador Valley Boulevard.Amador Plaza Road would also provide north-south bicycle lanes through Downtown. The existing Village Parkway bicycle lanes north of Amador Valley Boulevard would be extended south to Dublin Boulevard/Clark Avenue. A Class I Path would extend that route to the Alamo Canal Trail and Civic Plaza via a bicycle and pedestrian bridge. To connect the Village Parkway route to the west, widening of the existing sidewalk on the south side of Dublin Boulevard is proposed to create a Class I Path connecting to Amador Plaza Road. In addition to enhancements to other routes Downtown, it is anticipated that Dublin Boulevard will be striped and signed as a Class HIA Bicycle Route with sharrows (shared lane markings) in 2015/2016. • Tiers Two and Three Projects: Bicycle and Pedestrian improvement projects in this list have been prioritized based on their respective contribution to connectivity to activity centers and/or off-street paths,resolving safety needs, closure of critical transportation gaps, feasibility of construction and improving comfort and access. The complete list of recommended bicycle and pedestrian projects is contained in Appendix A of the Plan document. The Plan also includes performance standards for measuring plan implementation, a listing of recommended support programs and methods to implement the Plan, including but not limited to funding sources. As reflected in Plan Chapter 9, Implementation, completing any of the proposed bike and pedestrian improvements is highly dependent on funding availability, especially grant funding. It is possible that identified future projects could change priority if funding became available. Proposed Implementing General Plan Specific Plan and Zoning Ordinance Amendments. A number of amendments will be required to the Dublin General Plan and the Downtown Dublin and Eastern Dublin Specific Plans to ensure consistency among the proposed Plan and these existing City land use regulatory documents. Preliminarily, actions regarding these documents include: Dublin General Plan: • Revise all applicable Figures to reflect existing and proposed bicycle lanes and trails • Replace all references to "Bikeways Master Plan" with "Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan." • Revise references to the City of Dublin's Design Standards and Standard Plans to include the "Bicycle and Pedestrian Design Guidelines contained in the City of Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, as appropriate." City of Dublin Page 5 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 • Revise specific references to bicycling to also include walking. • Update Table 5.1 to include proposed biking and walking facilities. • Revise implementing policy 5.2.2.B.2 to include a reference to the bicycle and pedestrian network maps contained in the City's Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. • Update implementing policies 5.2.5.B.1 and 5.2.5.B.2 to include a reference to updating the Downtown Traffic Impact Fee Program for consistency with the Downtown Dublin Specific Plan and the Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. • Revise Section 5.5 to summarize and refer to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan;remove references to the Dublin Blvd gap closure study;and include references to Downtown Dublin businesses and the Dublin BART Station. • Revise policy 5.5.1.A.1 to include "continuous, comfortable and convenient bikeways." • Revise policy 5.5.1.A.2 to include "bikeways,bicycle support facilities and pedestrian facilities." • Add the following policy:5.5.1.A.4 Provide comfortable, safe and convenient walking routes throughout the City and,in particular, to key destinations such as Downtown Dublin, the BART Stations, schools,parks and commercial centers. • Revise policy 5.5.1.B.2 to include "bikeways,bicycle support facilities and pedestrian facilities in accordance with the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan." • Revise policy 5.5.1.B.3 to include "bikeways,bicycle support facilities and pedestrian facilities." Downtown Dublin Speci 'c Plan: • Replace all references to"Bikeways Master Plan" with "Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan." • Revise applicable Figures to reflect bicycle and pedestrian circulation. • Revise development standards for bicycle parking requirements. • Revise Section 5.2 (Mobility and Infrastructure Plan,Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation) to reflect existing and proposed infrastructure improvements. Eastern Dublin Speci 'c Plan: • Replace all references to"Bikeways Master Plan" with "Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan." • Revise Policy 5-18 to include support facilities for bicycle parking consistent with the Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. • Revise Action Program 5D consistent with the Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. • Revise Figures 5.3 and 5.3b to reflect bicycle and pedestrian circulation. • Revise Policy 4-23 to require facilities to be consistent with the Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. • Revise development standards for bicycle parking requirements. City of Dublin Page 6 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Dublin Village Historic Area Speci 'c Plan Update Section 4.6 Transportation and Circulation to reflect roadway improvements and existing/proposed bike lanes. Revise Exhibit 7 to reflect existing and proposed bike lanes. Additional changes or updates to these documents may also be required. More information. More information on proposed bicycle and pedestrian improvements are contained in the draft City of Dublin Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan document, available for review at the Public Works Department webpage at www.dublin.ca.gov and at Dublin Public Works Department, 100 Civic Plaza, Dublin CA, during normal business hours. City of Dublin Page 7 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 SAN ►ABLO q Martinez q BAY San so sw Concord Rafael Richmond Ho Mill 101 Valley Walnut zq Creek Berkeley aeo 0 Oakland San Francisco ey a S A N San Leandro DUBLIN FRANCISCO no sBo CryLivermore B-A Y n ion Pleasanton Hayward n M San Mateo Fremont f1 sq Newark Redwood City Half 64 Moon ° Bay Palo R N Alto N �.,. 101 wo xeo Sunnyvale Santa Clara 0 San Jose of n Exhibit 1 REGIONAL LOCATION CITY OF DUBLIN PEDESTRIAN&BICYCLE MASTER PLAN o z q s a ro owes INITIAL STUDY oosi�o TMv CITY OF �''�iMEpPco"N I CIO, SAN RAMON ..... • A ; �0'Vo0l\0oG2 ' CL v .` p �, to � •- p�r ' •`���`♦ w 9 A Y d rya' CITY OF CITY OF PLEASANTON LIVERMORE Exhibit 2 DUBLIN CONTEXT CITY OF DUBLIN PEDESTRIAN&BICYCLE MASTER PLAN o w v2 a4 1 mie INITIAL STUDY w 1 O it a OU) — . - ♦ 11 Cl) a Q ♦ ♦ 1 K Z W ♦ ♦ �� W Q �L s . r ♦ ♦ IFt /r 1 111 Ir� to 1 t , w a 4 � r e t 7I i N 'y C n - R TON � a 3 z O > `♦ I v k a m N N u u do � r i Z W ;,y u J� 72 N MW wl , N G r 14t c yG•.. d C C m _ I r`o oo 'm m u 1 1 .ad N C o ° ._cn i Ln N N N •N Cd Ala Ilk m . j, yy t•c� 0 1 1 ;a .. w �'s� °`'V jd, 40 CqL Y r?r a h0 N m m `i cl Ytii PSG• �. ... i 1 tad Kit s!a8� � `� 1 , L� ' B � � � m rN�o 5p' "' / i ♦ } Y u a u u CIO W y� s r '/1VdVZ VUt N 0 N 0 � ac alv"MIAIS a # E CA c D . O rn N A m � I S 0 0 �..� Z rn 0 a c Qv oC W CN 2 c N h - f` O N a r akEtu�4 ! �+ rn a U n� N ~ N U ate.. vi C n C 0 D 3 m Z '+i.. 4 0 1p y .N Q J Ga V m •v NO as m Z } m N w V -1Z D Fc D Ir 1= U. t— t~!1 h a, w p fn • � O cc } o i � ::) x t x o V a ? 1. Project description: Consideration of a Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan to encourage use of walking and bicycling within the community. The Plan includes recommendations for specific implementing projects along certain major roadways in Dublin. The project also includes Amendments to the Dublin General Plan, Downtown Dublin Specific Plan, Dublin Village Historic Area Specific Plan and zoning ordinance to ensure consistency between these documents and the proposed Plan. 2. Lead agency/sponsor: City of Dublin 3. Contact person: Ferd Del Rosario PE, Senior Civil Engineer 4. Project location: City-wide applicability 5. General Plan designation: Includes all General Plan land use designations within the City 6. Zoning: Includes all zoning districts within the City 7. Other public agency required approvals: None, although permits from other agencies may be required to implement individual project components. City of Dublin Page 11 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 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 -- Agricultural -- Air Quality Resources -- Biological Resources -- Cultural Resources -- Geology/Soils -- Hazards and -- Hydrology/Water -- Land Use/ Planning Hazardous Materials Quality -- Mineral Resources -- Noise -- Population/Housin -- Public Services -- Recreation _ Transportation/ Circulation -- Utilities/Service -- Mandatory Findings S stems of Significance Determination (to be completed by Lead Agency): On the basis of this initial evaluation: X 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 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 although the proposed project may have a "potentially significant 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 mitigation measures based on earlier analysis as described on the attached sheets. An Environmental Impact Report is required,but must only analyze the effects that remain to be addressed. _I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed 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 on the proposed project, nothing further is required. City of Dublin Page 12 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Signature: 5"', Date: `(L3 It Y-d Printed Name: J�' For: � 4-f 1000 Evaluation of Environmental Impacts 1) 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 parenthesis 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 factors (e.g. the project will not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants,based on a project-specific screening analysis). 2) All answers must take account of the whole action, 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 Analysis," may be cross-referenced). 5) 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).In this case, a brief discussion should identify the following: a) Earlier Analysis Used. Identify and state where they are available for review. b) Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis. c) Mitigation Measures.For effects that are "Less-Than-Significant with Mitigation Measures Incorporated," describe the mitigation measures City of Dublin Page 13 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site-specific conditions for the project. 6) Lead Agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for potential impacts (e.g. general plans). Reference to a previously prepared or outside document should,where appropriate,include a reference to the page or pages where the statement is substantiated. 7) Supporting Information Sources. A source list should be attached and other sources used or individuals contacted should be cited for discussion. 8) This is a suggested form and lead agencies are free to use different formats; however, lead agencies should normally address the questions from this checklist that are relevant to a project's environmental effects in whatever format is selected. 9) The explanation of each agency should identify the significance criteria or threshold,if any,used to evaluate each question and the mitigation measures identified, if any, to reduce the impact to a less than significant level. City of Dublin Page 14 Initial Study/Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Environmental Impacts (Note: Source of determination listed in parenthesis. See listing of sources at end of checklist used to determine each potential impact). Note: A full discussion of each item is found Potentially Less Than Less than No following the checklist. Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact With Impact Mitigation 1.Aesthetics. Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse impact on a scenic X vista? b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including but not limited to trees,rock X outcroppings and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? (Source: 1,5) c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its X surroundings? (Source: 1,3) d)Create a new source of substantial light or glare,which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area?(Source: 2,3) X 2.Agricultural Resources. Would the project: a)Convert Prime Farmland,Unique Farmland or Farmland of Statewide Importance,as show on the maps prepared pursuant to the X Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency,to a non-agricultural use? (Source: 1,3) b) Conflict with existing zoning for agriculture use or a Williamson Act contract?(1) X c)Conflict with existing zoning for,or cause rezoning of forestland (as defined by PRC Sec. 12220(g),timberland (as defined in X PRC Sec.4526),or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined in PRC Sec.51104(g)? (Source: 1,5) d)Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use?(1,3) X e) Involve other changes in the existing environment that,due to their location or nature,could result in conversion of X farmland to a non-agricultural use or conversion of forestland to a non-forest use? (Source: 1,3) City of Dublin Page 15 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Potentially Less Than Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact With Impact Mitigation 3.Air Quality (Where available,the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality management district may be relied on to make the following determinations). Would the project: a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of X the applicable air quality plan? (Source: 1,5) b)Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air X quality violation?(Source: 1,5) c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non-attainment under an X applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors?(1,5) d)Expose sensitive receptors to substantial X pollutant concentrations?(3) e) Create objectionable odors affecting a X substantial number of people?(2,3) 4.Biological Resources. Would the project a) Have a substantial adverse effect,either directly through habitat modifications,on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive or special status species in local or X regional plans,policies or regulations,or by the California Department of Fish and Game or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?(1,3) b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional X plans,policies or regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?(1,3) c) Have a substantial adverse impact on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including but not limited to marsh,vernal X pool,coastal,etc.)through direct removal, filling,hydrological interruption or other means? (3) City of Dublin Page 16 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Potentially Less Than Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact With Impact Mitigation 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 X impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites?(3) e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances X protecting biological resources,such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? f) Conflict with the provision of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan,Natural Community Conservation Plan or other X approved local,regional or state habitat conservation plan? (Source: 1,5) 5.Cultural Resources. Would the project a) Cause a substantial adverse impact in the significance of a historical resource as X defined in Sec. 15064.5?(Source: 1,3,5) b)Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archeological resource X pursuant to Sec. 15064.5? (Source: 1,5) c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or unique geologic X feature? (Source: 1,3,5) d) Disturb any human remains,including those interred outside of a formal cemetery?(3) X 6.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 Fault Zoning Map issued by the State X Geologist or based on other known evidence of a known fault? (Source: 1,3) ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? (1,5) X iii) Seismic-related ground failure,including X liquefaction? (Source: 1,5) iv) Landslides? (Source: 1,3) X b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of X topsoil? (Source: 1,4)) City of Dublin Page 17 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Potentially Less Than Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact With Impact Mitigation 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 X on- and off-site landslide,lateral spreading, subsidence,liquefaction or collapse? (1,5) d) Be located on expansive soil,as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code X (1994),creating substantial risks to life or property?(Source: 1,5) e) Have soils capable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers X are not available for wastewater disposal? (2) 7.Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Would the project: a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions,either directly or indirectly,that may have a X significant impact on the environment?(1,5) b) Conflict with an applicable plan,policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of X reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases? 8.Hazards and Hazardous Materials. Would the project: a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, X use or disposal of hazardous materials? (2. 5) b)Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the X release of hazardous into the environment? (5) c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous materials,substances,or waste X within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school?(Source: 1,3,5) City of Dublin Page 18 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Potentially Less Than Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact With Impact Mitigation d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites complied pursuant to Government Code Sec.65962.5 X and,as a result,would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment?(5) e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or,where such plan has not been adopted,within 2 miles of a public airport or X public use airport,would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? (Source: 1,5) f) For a project within the vicinity of private airstrip,would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the X project area? (Source: 1,5) g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with the adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation X plan?(Source: 1,4) h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss,injury or death involving wildland fires,including where wildlands X are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands? (4) 9.Hydrology and Water Quality. Would the project: a)Violate any water quality standards or waste X discharge requirements? (Source: 1,4,5) 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 X local groundwater table level (e.g.the production rate of existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? (Source: 1,3) City of Dublin Page 19 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Potentially Less Than Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact With Impact Mitigation c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area,including through the alteration of the course of a stream or X river,in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off- site?(Source: 1,4,5) d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or areas,including through the alteration of a course or stream or river, X or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on-or off-site?(Source: 1, 4) e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or X provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff?(Source: 1,4) f) Otherwise substantially degrade water X quality? (Source: 1,2,3) g) Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood X delineation map? (Source: 1,4) h)Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which impede or redirect flood X flows? (Source: 1,4) i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss,injury,and death involving X flooding,including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam?(Source: 1,5) j) Inundation by seiche,tsunami or mudflow? X 10.Land Use and Planning. Would the project: a) Physically divide an established community? (Source: 1,3) X City of Dublin Page 20 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Potentially Less Than Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact With Impact Mitigation b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy,or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project(including but X not limited to the general plan,specific plan, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? (Source: 1,3) c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community X conservation plan?(Source: 1,3) 11.Mineral Resources. Would the project a)Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to X the region and the residents of the state? (1) b)Result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan,specific X plan or other land use plan? (Source: 1) 12.Noise. Would the proposal result in: a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the general plan or noise ordinance,or X applicable standards of other agencies? (1) b)Exposure of persons or to generation of excessive groundborne vibration or X groundborne noise levels? (Source: 1,3) c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above X existing levels without the project?(1,3) d)A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity X above levels without the project? (1,3) e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or,where such a plan has not been adopted,within two miles of a public airport X or public use airport,would the project expose people residing or working n the project area to excessive noise levels? (1,5) City of Dublin Page 21 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Potentially Less Than Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact With Impact Mitigation f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip,would the project expose people X residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? (5) 13.Population and Housing. Would the project a) Induce substantial population growth in an area,either directly or indirectly (for X example,through extension of roads or other infrastructure)?(1,3) b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing,necessitating the construction of X replacement housing elsewhere? (1,3) c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the replacement of housing X elsewhere?(Source: 1,3) 14.Public Services. Would the proposal: a) Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities,the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts,in order to maintain acceptable service ratios,response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services? (Source: 4) Fire protection? X Police protection? X Schools? X Parks? X Other public facilities X 15.Recreation: a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood or regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial X physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? (Source: 4,5) b)Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an X adverse physical effect on the environment? (Source: 1,2) City of Dublin Page 22 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Potentially Less Than Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact With Impact Mitigation 16.Transportation and Traffic. Would the project: a) Conflict with an applicable plan,ordinance or policy establishing measures of effectiveness for the performance of the X circulation system,taking into account all modes of transportation,including mass transit and all non-motorized travel and relevant components of the circulation system,including but not limited to intersections,streets,highways and freeways,pedestrian and bicycle paths and mass transit? (Source: 1,4) b) Conflict with an applicable congestion management program,including but not limited to,level of service and travel X demand measures,or other standards established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways?-(Source: 1,4) c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either an increase in traffic levels X or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks? (Source: 1,5) d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g. sharp curves or dangerous X intersections) or incompatible uses,such as farm equipment? (Source: 4) e)Result in inadequate emergency access?(4) X f) Conflict with adopted policies,plans or programs regarding public transit,bicycle or pedestrian facilities or otherwise decrease the X performance of safety of such facilities?(1) 17.Utilities and Service Systems. Would the project a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality X Control Board? (Source: 4) City of Dublin Page 23 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Potentially Less Than Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact With Impact Mitigation b) Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities,the X construction of which could cause significant environmental effects?(4) c) Require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities,the construction of X which could cause significant environmental effects? (4) d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing water X entitlements and resources,or are new or expanded entitlements needed? (4) e) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate X capacity to serve the project's projected demand in addition to the providers existing commitments? (Source: 4) f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the X project's solid waste disposal needs? g) Comply with federal,state and local statutes X and regulations related to solid waste? (5) 18.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 X eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number of or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? City of Dublin Page 24 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Potentially Less Than Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact With Impact Mitigation b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited,but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" X means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects and the effects of probable future projects). c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects X on human beings,either directly or indirectly? Source used to determine potential environmental impacts 1. Dublin General Plan and General Plan CEQA document 2. Draft Pedestrian &Bicycle Master Plan 3. Site Visit 4. Discussion with City staff or service provider. 5. Other Source XVII.Earlier Analyses Earlier analyses used. Identify earlier analyses and state where they are available for review. None have been used in the preparation of this document. City of Dublin Page 25 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Attachment to Initial Study Discussion of Checklist Legend PS: Potentially Significant LS/M:Less Than Significant After Mitigation LS: Less Than Significant Impact NI: No Impact 1. Aesthetics Project Impacts a) Have a substantial adverse impact on a scenic vista? LS. . Implementation of the proposed Plan would facilitate bicycle and pedestrian improvements on major streets and on grade-separated paths within Dublin. These improvements would generally occur within existing public rights-of-way, either on roadways (such as Amador Plaza Road, Village Parkway and others) or within other public rights-of- way. Many of the projects, such as new bicycle lanes, bicycle paths and similar improvements, would be at-grade and would not significantly change any existing scenic vistas. The Plan could facilitate a number of new above-grade structures such as a proposed pedestrian and bicycle bridge over Alamo Canal, new wayfinding signs and similar features. Most of these proposed improvements would be minor and would generally blend into surrounding developments. The proposed Alamo Canal bridge may require future environmental review at the time a specific design is proposed,but preliminarily, this structure is anticipated to have minor and less-than-significant impact in terms of creating a significant impact to a scenic vista. Overall, there would be a less-than-significant impact with respect to any substantial impacts on a scenic vista. The proposed Alamo Canal bridge is proposed as part of the Village Parkway priority project. Preliminary plans call for a 10'bike and pedestrian path with the bridge extending approximately 0.10 mile across the Alamo Canal Trail.The trail is located on a maintenance road along Alamo Canal, which is channelized in this area. The new bridge would be located on City property near the Civic Center and the new Public Services facility(See Plan Figure 6-8). The design details of the bridge have not been established;however,based on the preliminary location, developed nature of the area, including the existing trail and canal, and nearby multi-story structures,no significant aesthetics impacts are expected as to scenic vistas. The bridge may require future environmental review at the time a specific design is proposed,but based on the above factors, this structure is anticipated to have minor and less-than-significant impact to a scenic vista. Overall, implementation of the Plan would be a less-than-significant impact with respect to any substantial impacts on a scenic vista. City of Dublin Page 26 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including but not limited to trees, rock outcroppings and historic buildings within a state scenic highway?NI. Implementation of the Plan would facilitate limited new construction within existing public rights- of-way. No major stands of trees,large rock outcroppings or other significant natural features exist adjacent to any of the roadways that could be affected by approval of the Plan and no impact would result. c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? NI. Future construction of pedestrian and bicycle improvements would be located within existing rights-of-way and within largely urbanized areas. Therefore, there would be no degradation of the visual character of properties adjacent to major roads that would be improved with new or enhanced bicycle and pedestrian facilities. No impact would result with respect to this topic. d) Create light or glare?LS. Implementation of the Plan could facilitate new lighting adjacent to new bicycle lanes and pedestrian paths. It is anticipated that any new lighting fixtures would be in existing developed areas. The lighting would generally the same type as presently exists in the community and new lighting could represent a minimal increase in the amount of overall light within the City of Dublin. This impact is therefore expected to be less-than-significant. 2. Agricultural and Forestry Resources Project Impacts a-e) Convert Prime Farmland, conflict with agricultural zoning, convert prime farmland to a non-agricultural use or impact forest or timberland. Nl. Proposed improvements that could be facilitated by the Plan would be located within urbanized areas within the City of Dublin. Therefore no impacts would result in terms of loss of agricultural lands, agricultural operations,Williamson Act contracts or any timberland or forests. 3. Air Quality Project Impacts a-c) Would the project conflict or obstruct implementation of an air quality plan,violate any air quality standards or result in cumulatively considerable air pollutants?LS. Approval of the Plan and construction of individual pedestrian and bicycle improvements pursuant to the Plan could create minor and less-than-significant short-term air quality impacts related to restriping of roadways for new bicycle lanes, demolition of portions of damaged sidewalk and other similar construction activities. These improvements would occur over a number of years and would fall below the level of significance identified by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) (see BAAQMD Guidelines, May 2012). There would also be limited short-term use of vehicles for construction activities. The purpose of the project is to encourage non-automotive trips in Dublin by constructing improvements that City of Dublin Page 27 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 promote walking and bicycling rather than relying on traditional vehicle trips. These activities that would be promoted as part of the project are cited by the BAAQMD and other regional agencies, such as the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), as methods to reduce project-level and cumulative air pollutants. No air quality plan would be violated and no air quality standards, including cumulatively considerable standards,would be exceeded. This impact would therefore be less-than-significant. d,e) Expose sensitive receptors to significant pollutant concentrations or create objectionable odors? NI. The proposed project would not exceed proposed Bay Area Air Quality Management District risks and hazards thresholds of significance since it would not generate any long-term air pollutants. The project would also not involve any industrial or similar activities that would create objectionable odors. No impacts would result with respect to this topic. No impacts are anticipated with regard to significantly objectionable odors, since the proposed project involves a Plan to encourage non-automotive transportation. 4. Biological Resources Project Impacts a) Have a substantial adverse impact on a candidate,sensitive,or special-status species? LS. The Plan would generally result in pedestrian and bicycle improvements within public rights-of-way in the City of Dublin and would have no impact on candidate, special-status or other protected plant or wildlife species or their respective habitats. The proposed Alamo Canal Trail bridge to provide improved pedestrian and bicycle access near Downtown Dublin would span Alamo Canal. The creek in this area has been channelized and located in a developed area.As such, the bridge is not expected to affect special status species. Once the final location and design of the bridge is established, additional environmental review of potential effects of the proposed bridge on special-status or protected species may be required. No significant stands of trees would be removed that provides nesting and roosting habit for bird species. Impacts to candidate, special-status or other sensitive plant or wildlife species would be less-than-significant. b, c) Have a substantial adverse impact on riparian habitat or federally protected wetlands? LS.Impacts to wetlands or other waters of the U.S. could occur only in the area where the Alamo Canal Trail bridge is proposed. As noted above, the bridge would span concrete channelized canal in a developed area, so any potential impacts are expected to be less-than-significant. Construction of the bridge would be subject to existing City and other regulations for erosion control.Once the final location and design of the bridge is established, additional environmental review of potential effects of the proposed bridge construction to wetlands and other waters may be required.No other components of the Plan would be expected to have an impact on wetlands or other water is expected City of Dublin Page 28 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 since these improvements would generally occur within or immediately adjacent to public rights-of-way. d) Interfere with movement of native fish or wildlife species?NI. No major structures would be constructed as part of implementing the Plan in undeveloped areas that could block or interfere with native fish or wildlife species and no impact would result. e,f) Conflict with local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources or any adopted Habitat Conservation Plans or Natural Community Conservation Plans?NI. The project site lies within the Eastern Alameda County Conservation Strategy (EACCS) planning area. The City of Dublin utilizes the Conservation Strategy as guidance for environmental permitting for public projects, and private development projects are encouraged to use the EACCS as a resource as well. The Conservation Strategy embodies a regional approach to permitting and mitigation for wildlife habitat impacts associated with land development, infrastructure, and other activities.The Conservation Strategy is neither a Habitat Conservation Plan nor a Natural Community Conservation Plan,but is a document intended to provide guidance during the project planning and permitting process to ensure that impacts are offset in a biologically effective manner. No impacts would therefore result. 5. Cultural Resources Project Impacts a) Cause substantial adverse change to significant historic resources? NI. Future pedestrian and bicycle improvements envisioned as part of the Plan would be located within public rights-of-way that contain no structures. No impacts are therefore anticipated with regard to historic structures. b, c) Cause a substantial adverse impact or destruction to archeological or paleontological resources? LS. Limited subsurface excavation would occur as a result of constructing pedestrian or bicycle improvements envisioned in the Plan. This would include excavating for sidewalk and bicycle path improvements,new lights and for structural footings for the proposed Alamo Creek overcrossing. All grading and excavation will be subject to City of Dublin General Plan Conservation Element Guiding Policy 7.7.1.2 that requires grading operations within the City to follow State regulations regarding stop-work and other procedures upon discovery of archeological and historic sites as set forth in the California Public Resources Code. Less-than-significant impacts would result with respect to this topic. d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of a formal cemetery? NI. There would be minimal ground disturbance as a result of constructing pedestrian and bicycle improvements since most of the improvements would be along in or along existing roadways. Consistency with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5 (f), as required by the General Plan,will ensure that stop-work and City of Dublin Page 29 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 appropriate review procedures would be followed in the unlikely event that human remains were discovered during project implementation. No impacts are anticipated with respect to disturbance of human remains. 6. Geology and Soils Project Impacts a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse impacts, including loss, injury or death related to ground rupture,seismic ground shaking,ground failure, or landslides? NI. None of the proposed improvements envisioned in the Plan would include structures that would accommodate residents, employees or visitors that could be affected by seismic events or landslides. Proposed bicycle paths and pedestrian improvements would not significantly expose users to future seismic impacts. No impacts would therefore occur with respect to this topic. b) Is the site subject to substantial erosion and/or the loss of topsoil? LS. There could be limited potential for soil erosion as a result of constructing new walking and bicycle improvements,including but not limited to trails, structures, drainage improvements and similar improvements. Adherence to normal and customary City of Dublin requirements of installing erosion control features near graded areas during the rainy season will ensure that less-than-significant impacts would occur with respect to soil erosion or loss of topsoil. c-d) Is the site located on soil that is unstable or expansive or result in potential lateral spreading, liquefaction, landslide or collapse?LS. Locations for pedestrian and bicycle projects that could be facilitated under the Plan are primarily paved and/or already developed for roadway or pedestrian use. Potential implementing projects generally consist of surface-level, at-grade improvements in existing developed areas and would not result in any increases of risk for landslide, lateral spreading, ground subsidence, liquefaction or other soil hazards. Proposed improvements would be constructed to City of Dublin public works standards to ensure this impact would be less-than-significant. e) Have soils incapable of supporting on-site septic tanks if sewers are not available?NI. No dwellings or other structures would be constructed as a part of this project that would require septic service. There would therefore be no impact with respect to this topic. 7. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Discussion: a,b) Generate greenhouse gas emissions,either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment or conflict with an applicable plan,policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases?LS. Proposed project improvements that could be facilitated by approving the Plan would slightly and incrementally increase greenhouse gas emissions in the short- City of Dublin Page 30 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 term due to construction activities to stripe bike lanes on selected streets, repair of sidewalks and similar actions. Such impacts would be less-than-significant and would occur over a period of time. There would be no long-term increases in greenhouse gas emissions, since the purpose of the Plan is to promote non- automotive modes of transportation as an alternative to vehicle use. The effect of implementing the Plan would therefore be to slightly reduce the emission of greenhouse gasses over the long-term. 8. Hazards and Hazardous Materials Project Impacts a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? NI. The proposed project would not involve the routine transport,use or disposal of significant amounts of hazardous materials since it would include non-auto transportation improvements with minimal use of any chemicals. No impacts would result. b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous material into the environment?NI. There would be minimal disruption of existing ground surfaces in order to construct planned pedestrian and bicycle improvements envisioned in the Plan. Generally, planned improvements would be at existing topographic grades and within public rights-of-way in developed areas. No impacts are expected to occur with respect to this topic. c) Emit hazardous materials or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials,substances, waste within one-quarter mile of a school? NI. The proposed project is not anticipated to emit or handle hazardous materials or substances since it would involve bicycle and pedestrian transportation improvements. No impacts would occur with respect to this topic. d) Is the site listed as a hazardous materials site?NI.The project area is not listed on the State of California Department of Toxics Substances Control list(the Cortese List) as of January 15, 2014 (see www.calepa.ca.gov/Site.Cleanup/Cortese_List.cfm). No impacts are therefore anticipated with respect to this topic. e,f) Is the site located within an airport land use plan of a public airport or private airstrip? NI. Although portions of Eastern Dublin are located within the Airport Influence Area of Livermore Municipal Airport, the Plan would not result in the construction of new residential or non-residential buildings so that no impacts would result. g) Interference with an emergency evacuation plan?NI. Transportation improvements associated with the Plan would occur within public rights-of-way and would improve the ability of residents, visitors and employees to evacuate portions of Dublin in the event of an emergency.Proposed improvements would therefore not interfere with an emergency evacuation plan and no impact would result with respect to this topic. City of Dublin Page 31 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 9. Hydrology and Water Quality Project Impacts a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements? LS. Most of the pedestrian and bicycle improvements anticipated as part of the implementation of the Plan would be located on currently paved areas, such as proposed bicycle lanes on existing roads and sidewalks.Future ground disturbing activities that could be undertaken to implement the Plan, such as replacement of damaged sidewalk sections, could result in erosion of unprotected graded areas during the rainy season. However, this potential impact would be less-than-significant by adherence to City of Dublin standard requirements of implementing erosion control features adjacent to graded areas during the rainy season. b) Substantially deplete groundwater recharge areas or lowering of water table? NI. Project elements associated with the Plan would include both pedestrian and bicycle improvements and would not require substantial quantities of water that would deplete the local water table. Proposed pedestrian and bicycle improvements would generally be constructed on existing paved surfaces so that significant quantities of new impervious,paved surfaces would not be created.No impacts would result with respect to this topic. c,d) Substantially alter drainage patterns, including streambed courses such that substantial siltation or erosion would occur or substantially alter drainage patterns or result in flooding,either on or off the project site?NI. Pedestrian and bicycle transportation improvements that could be facilitated by approval of the Plan would generally be located on currently paved areas,primarily roadways, so that significant amounts of new impervious surfaces would not be created. Therefore, existing drainage patterns would not be significantly altered, including streambeds such that a significant amount of erosion could occur. No significant amount of new flooding is similarly anticipated with respect to proposed non-automotive transportation improvements. No impacts are anticipated with respect to this topic. e) Create stormwater runoff that would exceed the capacity of drainage systems or add substantial amounts of polluted runoff? LS. Proposed pedestrian and bicycle improvements envisioned in the Plan would generally occur on existing paved roadways in currently developed areas of the community so as not to significantly increase the amount of impervious surfaces that would increase stormwater flows. Existing municipal drainage facilities are expected to be adequate to accommodate expected slight increases in stormwater flows Adherence to the Alameda County Clean Water Program, as enforced by the City of Dublin for all development projects, will ensure that the quantity of polluted stormwater would not significantly increase. These programs require installation of vegetated bioswales adjacent to paved areas, covering of solid waste dumpsters and similar features. Overall, the amount of increased stormwater and polluted stormwater would be less-than-significant. City of Dublin Page 32 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 f) Substantially degrade water quality? NI. As noted in the above response, all specific development projects constructed as envisioned in the draft Plan would be subject to surface water pollution controls as mandated by the Alameda County Clean Water Program to ensure that no impacts would result with respect to this project. Under the Clean Water Program,project contractor(s) for pedestrian and bicycle improvements constructed under the auspices of the Plan will be required to install silt fencing, hay bales and similar features to minimize polluted runoff during the annual rainy period of each year. No impacts would therefore occur. g-i) Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped by a Flood Insurance Rate Map, or impede or redirect flood flow, including dam failure? NI.No residences would be constructed as part of the proposed project, so no impacts would result with respect to this topic. j) Result in inundation by seiche, tsunami or mudflows? NI. There are expected to be no impacts with regard to seiche, tsunami or mudflows, since the project site is located significantly east of San Francisco Bay that would be affected by a seiche or tsunami.Proposed pedestrian and bicycle improvements constructed pursuant to the Plan would generally be located in the flatter portions of Dublin so as not to be significantly impacted by mudflows. No impacts are anticipated with respect to this topic. 10. Land Use and Planning Project Impacts a) Physically divide an established community?NI. A majority of project-related improvements would occur within existing public rights-of-way so as not to divide any existing communities. In addition, one of the purposes of the proposed project is to increase connectivity within Dublin by providing non-automotive modes of transportation to link various areas of the community. No impacts would occur with respect to this topic. b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan,policy or regulation? NI.The proposed project would comply with a number of goals and policies contained in the Circulation and Scenic Highways and the Community Design and Sustainability Elements of the Dublin General Plan as well as other regional policy planning documents as noted in the Plan. A number of amendments are being proposed to the Dublin General Plan and the Downtown Dublin and Eastern Dublin Specific Plans as noted in the Project description section;however, there would be for the purpose of ensuring consistency between the proposed Plan and the General and Specific Plans. No impacts would occur with respect to this topic. c) Conflict with a habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan? NI. The City of Dublin lies within the Eastern Alameda County Conservation Strategy (EACCS) planning area. The City utilizes the Conservation Strategy as guidance for environmental permitting for public projects, and private development projects are encouraged to use the EACCS as a resource as well. The Conservation Strategy City of Dublin Page 33 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 embodies a regional approach to permitting and mitigation for wildlife habitat impacts associated with land development,infrastructure, and other activities. The Conservation Strategy is neither a Habitat Conservation Plan nor a Natural Community Conservation Plan,but is a document intended to provide guidance during the project planning and permitting process to ensure that impacts are offset in a biologically effective manner. There is no existing habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan for major pedestrian and bicycle improvements. There would therefore be impacts with respect to this topic. 11.Mineral Resources Project Impacts a,b) Result in the loss of availability of regionally or locally significant mineral resources?NI. No impacts would occur to any mineral resources, since no such resources have been identified within the project area. 12.Noise Project Impacts a) Would the project expose persons or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established by the General Plan or noise ordinance or applicable standards of other agencies? LS. Proposed pedestrian and bicycle improvements envisioned in the Plan would not generate vehicle tri ps that could increase local noise levels or that would generate operational or mechanical noise.Noise affecting or generated by users of the bike and pedestrian facilities would blend in to background traffic or other noise. This would be a less-than-significant impact. b) Exposure of people to excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels?NI. Pedestrian and bicycle projects that could be constructed pursuant to the Plan would be limited in scale and use normal construction methods. Construction activities would not require installation of piles to anchor building foundations or retaining walls that would generate vibration and/or groundborne noise (source: Ferd Del Rosario, City of Dublin 2/4/14). No impacts would result with respect to this topic. c) Substantial permanent increases in ambient noise levels? NI. Since the long-term operation of proposed pedestrian and bicycle facilities that would be constructed under the auspices of the Plan would not require use of motorized vehicles or similar mechanical equipment, there would be no increases in permanent noise and no impact would result. d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels without the project?LS. Limited and less-than-significant increases in short-term noise generation would result from implementation of the Plan. Sources of noise could include use of grading, compacting and paving City of Dublin Page 34 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 new bicycle lanes, painting trucks to restripe roadways, adding bike lanes, remove of damaged sidewalks and replacing sidewalks and similar noises. Any short-term noise would generally be located within a public right-of-way and would blend in with existing noise generated by vehicles. Future construction activities would also be limited to normal construction hours by the City of Dublin that would restrict late evening,nighttime or Sunday construction activities. e,f) Be located within an airport land use plan area,within two miles of a public or private airport or airstrip? NI Although portion of Eastern Dublin lie within the Airport Influence Area of Livermore Municipal Airport,no significant noise contours from the airport extend north of the I-580 freeway no impact would result with respect to this topic(source: Livermore Municipal Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan, 2012). 13. Population and Housing Project Impacts a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly or indirectly? NI. The project would include a number of pedestrian and bicycle improvements within the City of Dublin that would be facilitated by the Plan. No structures would be built or other facilities constructed that could induce population growth within Dublin, either directly or indirectly. b,c) Would the project displace substantial numbers of existing housing units or people? All construction work that could be facilitated under the Plan would occur within public rights-of-way or currently vacant land. No existing housing or populations would be displaced as a result of approving and implementing the proposed project. No impacts would occur with respect to this topic. 14.Public Services Environmental Impacts a) Fire protection?LS. Pedestrian and bicycle improvements that could be constructed under the auspices of the Plan would primarily be installed within public rights- of-way and would not result in new fire hazards or increase the number of calls for service for fire service. While proposed non-automotive transportation improvements could change existing circulation routes and add bicyclists and pedestrians to local roadways, such changes would not substantially impair emergency access. The Dublin Fire Department staff states that installation of certain traffic calming features noted in the Plan could increase the response times for emergency vehicles. Installation of these improvements will require Fire Department approval prior to installation. However, no new or expanded Fire Department facilities would be required to serve the proposed project, (Bonnie Terra, Alameda County City of Dublin Page 35 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Fire Department, l/21/14) and impacts to fire protection would be less-than- significant. b) Police protection? LS. The Plan would facilitate pedestrian and bicycle modes of transportation primarily within public rights-of-way. Although there could be a potential for pedestrian and bicycle incidents, the number of any future accidents is anticipated to be less-than-significant. Increased use of non-automotive transit could somewhat reduce the number of vehicle accidents that are responded to by the Dublin Police Department.The Dublin Police Department staff notes that approval and implementation of the Plan would not require expansion of existing police facilities or the construction of new police facilities to serve project components (Tom McCarthy, Public Police Services Department, 1/16/14). This is anticipated to be a less-than-significant impact. c) Schools? NI. There would be no impact to the Dublin Unified School District, since no dwellings would be constructed that generates school-aged children. d) Other governmental service, including maintenance of public facilities?LS. There would be minimal and less-than-significant impacts with respect to maintenance of public facilities. Long-term impacts could include repair of bicycle route signs, striping of bicycle lanes by the City of Dublin and similar actions. The need for maintenance would be minimal, since the originally installation of improvements would not require maintenance for a number of years. e) Solid waste generation? LS. Construction of facilities that would be facilitated by the draft Plan would generate minor and less-than-significant amounts of solid waste in terms of construction debris and similar material from construction of pedestrian and bicycle improvements. 15. Recreation Project Impacts a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood or regional parks? LS. Implementation of the Plan would not significantly increase local or regional park use in Dublin since the total population of Dublin would not be increased.There could be small, incremental use in local park usage since improved pedestrian and bicycle linkages to parks would be provided;however, this increased use is anticipated to be less-than-significant. b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction of recreational facilities? NI. The draft Plan includes provision for new pedestrian and bicycle facilities that could be used for recreational purposes as well as for non-recreational uses, so impacts are anticipated with respect to this topic. City of Dublin Page 36 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 15. Transportation/Traffic Project Impacts a,b) Conflict with applicable plans related to the effectiveness of the circulation system, including all modes of travel, including intersections, streets,highways and other components or conflict with an applicable congestion management program, including level of service standards, travel demand measures and other applicable standards? NI. The Plan does not include any recommended components that would generate permanent vehicle trips or increase existing volumes of motorized vehicles on local roads, regional roads or CMA-designated roads. Instead, approval and implementation of the Plan would improve the City's non-automotive transportation infrastructure, enhance pedestrian safety and encourage both walking and bicycling as alternative modes of local transportation. Use of automobile traffic could be slightly reduced as individuals may choose alternative modes of transportation constructed pursuant to the Plan. No impacts are anticipated with respect to increasing motorized traffic volumes on local,regional and CMA designated roadways. c) Result in a change of air traffic patterns? NI. The proposed project would have no impact on air traffic patterns, since it involves consideration of a Plan to guide future pedestrian and bicycle improvements within the community and no changes to air traffic patterns would occur. d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature or incompatible use?NI.Based on discussions with the City of Dublin Public Works Department, the design of future transportation improvements that could be facilitated under the Plan will be consistent with City of Dublin public works and engineering design standards and standards contained in the Plan to ensure that no impact would occur with respect to any design hazard. e) Result in inadequate emergency access? NI. Proposed pedestrian and bicycle improvements that could be constructed under the auspices of the Plan would generally occur within public rights-of-way and would not require emergency access. No impacts would occur with respect to this topic. f) Conflict with adopted policies, plans or programs supporting alternative transportation modes? NI. As documented in the text of the Plan, the Plan would be consistent with a number of local and regional plans to improve and enhance non- automotive transportation modes,including the Circulation and Scenic Highways Element of the Dublin General Plan and others. Therefore, no impact would occur with respect to this topic. City of Dublin Page 37 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 16. Utilities and Service Systems Environmental Impacts a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the RWQCB? NI. No impact would result with respect to this topic, since no structures would be constructed that would generate any wastewater flows.With respect to surface water quality standards, the City of Dublin will ensure that any grading or trenching operations undertaken under the auspices of the Plan will comply with the Alameda County Clean Water Program and other applicable water quality regulations. If necessary, installation of erosion control facilities will be required for construction during the rainy season, consistent with standard City requirements. b,d,e) Require new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, are sufficient water supplies available and is adequate wastewater capacity available to serve the project? NI. No impacts would result with respect to these topics, since no structures that use water or generate wastewater would be constructed as part of the Plan. Staff of the Dublin San Ramon Services District(DSRSD) confirms that there would be no impact with respect to water or wastewater use (source; Stan Kolodzie, DSRSD, 1/22/14). c) Require new storm drainage facilities?Refer to Item "c"in Section 9, Hydrology. f,g) Solid waste disposal? LS. Small and less-than-significant quantities of solid waste would be generated by construction activities of transportation improvements envisioned in the Plan. No long-term contributions to solid waste would occur, since no uses would be approved that would generate solid waste. 17. 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, substantially reduce the number of or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? No. The preceding analysis indicates that there would be no potential impacts to fish and wildlife habitats,fish and wildlife populations,rare or endangered plant or wildlife species threaten or eliminate a plant or animal community, restrict the range of any rare or endangered species or eliminate any important examples of California history or prehistory. b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited,but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable"means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects and the effects of probable future projects).No such cumulatively considerable impacts have been identified in the Initial Study. City of Dublin Page 38 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? No. No such impacts have been discovered in the course of preparing this Initial Study. City of Dublin Page 39 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014 Initial Study Preparers Jerry Haag, Urban Planner, project manager and author Jane Maxwell, exhibits Agencies and Organizations Consulted The following agencies and organizations were contacted in the course of this Initial Study: City of Dublin Gary Husingh, PE, Public Works Director Andrew Russell, PE, City Engineer Ferd Del Rosario,PE,Project Manager Mamie Delgado, Senior Planner Kathleen Faubion, AICP, Assistant City Attorney Fehr&Peers Associates Carrie Neilson,Project Planner References Downtown Dublin Specific Plan City of Dublin, December 2010 Dublin General Plan, City of Dublin, Updated through June 2013 Eastern Dublin Specific Plan and General Plan Environmental Impact Report Wallace Roberts &Todd, 1994 Eastern Dublin Comprehensive Stream Restoration Program Sycamore Associates, 1996 Livermore Municipal Airport Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan ESA Associates, August 2012 Parks and Recreation Master Plan City of Dublin, 2006 update City of Dublin Page 40 Initial Study/Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan June 2014