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HomeMy WebLinkAbout5.1 Att 2 Att 1 to Exh A Initial Study/Neg Dec Sierra Business Center Rezone 6465-6557 Sierra Lane, Dublin City File: PLPA 2014-00034 INITIAL STUDY/ NEGATIVE DECLARATION Lead Agency: City of Dublin Prepared By: Jerry Haag, Urban Planner August 2016 ATTACHMENT 1 TO EXHIBIT A Table of Contents Introduction... ......... .. ... .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . Project Sponsor & Contact.. ... .. .. ... ... ... .. ... ... .... . .. ... 2 Project Description. ... ... .. ... . 2 Project Location and Context.. ._ .. ... ...... 2 Environmental Factors Potentially Affected _. ... .. . ... 9 Determination .. ... _.... .... ... .. .... ............. ......... ... ... ... .._ .... . . 9 Evaluation of Environmental Impacts .. ... .. ... ... ... 11 Discussion of Checklist .. .. ... ._ ... .. 1. Aesthetics .. .. .._ ._ .. . 24 2. Agricultural &Forestry Resources ... .... ... .. 25 3. Air Quality/Greenhouse Gas Analysis ... ... .. 25 4. Biological Resources .. . .. 26 5. Cultural Resources . .. ._ .. 28 6. Geology and Soils 28 7. Greenhouse Gas Emissions. 29 8 Hazards and Hazardous Materials 30 9. Hydrology and Water Quality 32 10 Land Use and Planning ... .... . .. ... 33 11. Mineral Resources ... .. ... ... ... ... ... ... .. .. .. .. 34 12. Noise .... .... .... ... ... ... 34 13. Population and Housing .. ... .... .. ... .. .... .... 15 14 Public Services .. .. .. .. ... .. .. .. ..... ._ .... ... 1,6 15. Recreation.... .... 36 16. Transportation/Traffic 37 17. Utilities and Service Systems .... .. 38 18. Mandatory Findings of Significance ... . ._ .. ... .... 39 Initial Study Preparers 41 Agencies and Organizations Consulted . ... ... .._ .... 41 References ... ..... ... .._... .... .. .... ._ . .._ ... . .. .. ... .... ._ .... ... ..._ 41 City of Dublin Page 1 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Environmental Checklist/Initial Study 6549 Sierra Lane Proposed Rezoning PLPA #2014-00034 City of Dublin Introduction This Initial Study has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA", Pub. Res Code §§ 21000 et seq.,) and the CEQA Guidelines (Cal. Code Regs. title 14, §§ 15000-15387) This Initial Study analyzes if potential impacts associated with rezoning approximately 5.3 acres of developed land in the central portion of Dublin would result in any potentially significant impacts on the environment. Applicant/Contact Person Square I, LLC, Attn: Edward Pike PO Box 458 Orinda, CA 94563 Phone: (925)383-9894 Project Description Project location and context. The project site consists of approximately 5.3 acres of land located in the central portion of Dublin, Alameda County Exhibit 1 shows the regional location of Dublin in the Bay Area and Exhibit 2 shows the project site location in the context of the local roadways and other features. The site is irregularly shaped and is located northeast of Sierra Lane within the Sierra Business Park. The Sierra Business Park is generally located north of Dublin Boulevard and west of Dougherty Road. The project site has been developed with a number of single-story light industrial buildings with two smaller buildings fronting on the north side of Sierra Lane and a larger building located in the central and northern portion of the site. A total of 12 suites of varying sizes are located within the three buildings. The existing tenants are shown on Exhibit 3. A small parking area is located off of Sierra Lane with a larger parking lot located in the center of the site connected with various drive aisles Landscaped planters are located throughout the site, adjacent to some buildings and within portions of the parking lot. Buildings on the site, as well as buildings on adjacent properties within the Sierra Business Park, were constructed in the late 1970's Gty of Dublin Page 2 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Site addresses range from 6465 to 6557 Sierra Lane. The largest of the three buildings contains approximately 51,400 gross square feet of floor area, the second-largest building contains approximately 13,200 gross square feet of floor area and the smallest building contains approximately 7,000 gross square feet of floor area. Total building square footage on the project site includes 71,600 gross square feet of floor area. Approximately 7,000 square feet of the complex are currently devoted to office use The term "gross square feet" reflects the total size of the buildings and includes non-occupied space, such as storage areas and mechanical spaces. Each of the three buildings has been divided into multiple interior suites. Some of the existing suites include but are not limited to: a health club, a video repair shop, a church, a building materials sales office, an insurance office, a photography studio and similar uses. The site is fully developed with buildings, paving/parking, and landscaping. There are no significant natural features on the project site, including but not limited to major stands of trees, bodies of water or similar features. Dublin Boulevard and Dougherty Road provide primary regional access to and from the site. Local roads serving the property include Sierra Lane immediately south of the site and Sierra Court to the west A signalized intersection exists at Sierra Court and Dublin Boulevard that facilitates access to and from the project site. Surrounding uses include a continuation of the Sierra Business Park to the north and west, Tralee mixed-use development (residential and commercial) to the southwest and a retail shopping and auto service station to the east that fronts onto Dougherty Road Proposed project. The applicant has requested that the City of Dublin change the zoning on the site from the current M-1 (Light Industrial) Zoning District to the M-P (Industrial Park) Zoning District Section 8.28.020 of the Dublin Zoning Ordinance states that the purpose of the M-1 Zoning District is to "provide for the continued use, expansion and new development of light industrial types in proximity to major transportation corridors and to ensure compatibility with adjacent residential and commercial uses." The same section states that the intent of the M-P Zoning District is to "provide for the continued use, expansion and new development of industrial park type uses in proximity to major transportation corridors and to ensure compatibility with adjacent residential and commercial uses." Both the existing M-1 and the proposed M-P Zoning Districts are consistent with the site's General Plan Business Park/Industrial land use designation. Under the current M-1 Zoning District, office uses are not permitted If the zoning district were to be City of Dublin Page 3 Initial Study!6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 changed to the proposed M-P Zoning District, professional and administrative offices would be an allowed use within the complex. The M-P and M-1 Zoning Districts also allows other land uses and activities that would not be changed by the requested rezoning. Such uses, permitted in both districts, include, but are not limited, to laboratories, printing and publishing, warehousing and distribution and similar uses The M-P Zoning District is stricter as to some light industrial uses than the current M-1 Zoning District, either restricting or prohibiting uses that would currently be allowed such as automobile/vehicle repair, vehicle storage yard and equipment and materials storage yard. If the rezoning is approved, future uses on the property would be reviewed by the Dublin Community Development Department through the building permit or discretionary land use application process to ensure that the uses would be compatible with uses allowed (or conditionally allowed) in the M-P Zoning District. There would be no changes or expansion to the current buildings or other improvements on the site should the rezoning be approved since the site is considered "built out" If the rezoning is approved by the City, the project applicant could rent or lease existing floor space to office uses, which are currently not allowed in the existing M-1 Zoning District. The applicant estimates that within three years from the present, up to 11,700 square feet of space could be converted to office use, which includes the 7,000 square feet of current office use. Within five years, the total amount of office in the complex could reach 18,300 square feet of the site's 71,600 square feet. Future changes would be limited to changes in interior occupancies within each of three buildings on the site and related tenant improvements. No expansion of the current building footprints or area is expected. Future on-site uses would he constrained by Chapter 8.76 (Off-Street Parking and Loading Regulations) of the City of Dublin Zoning Ordinance that generally requires a higher number of on-site parking spaces for offices uses than lower-employee intensive light industrial uses. Future changes in use will be monitored by the Dublin Community Development Department through the building permit process and business license review to ensure that the project site meets the current City parking requirement. Requested land use entitlements. The applicant has requested rezoning the project site from the M-1 Zoning District to the M-P Zoning District. The rezoning requires a public hearing and recommendation by the Dublin Planning Commission, and a final action by the Dublin City Council. Potential future land uses for the individual suites under the M-P Zoning District would include some permitted uses for which a building permit and zoning clearance would be required, and conditionally permitted uses (see the land use table in Sechon 812.050 of the Dublin Zoning Ordinance). City of Dublin Page 4 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Exhibit 7 Regional Context ; � 4 .'- h S: O _et - dY vit...„7 :70, ,_ _ 7. :..:. , :„. ._ ._, 4, ::::__°-yL rv` � ,In1 .r°'°.PRI-A. MCA lb ,' . `bet � ` >1 rYr� ~tea' M y y 4- ;'a ' t+ I".' 415:El m m fl r . _ wt.\ ,errr ,� e 7a smwx�,,ny� �S,ra`+,rl 1 ••` T aRy�l if. ' a'� _ -t& y AEA Al E D 4t t its '�F Mgr. A ., 044 u .:� \\ - .r.t ; �. \ - I �' : R1-1 {r %� Ir Exhibit 1 }• INITIAL EGIONAL CONTEXT CITY OF DUBLIN , AL STUDY 1 6549 SIERRA LANE ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT II City of Dublin Page 5 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Exhibit 2. Local context Att \qs, IutS ) mv F TM V s� DUBLIN ° rs, Fits Y` i easMO+ .uvlj I WO\-, Ai . °fie^ v...0.s ,,, pr .� ParEnsn It .`r kr,..\ 1 PIA, ' ; Si(°I 'at ti: '.7114.tnitt; �y 1 \ y 4 ill 1TE a R xn is / .cr aci•S t ‘ it] gip. ?�61E i 1,,„,,,,„ cal GrnAUM—. � z Ilk es,btu 4 W`..v, it �\ Nn60a / \.1 I p' ,� `5 bin. i \`F on �..v.d. I. cwzxw.E `\ "mob b= g ' a� 1 Ft 1A`",4.4 A - \,J.( a ^{ ..i ' 3e i q, ,..m..» _>c., � , ,. m'! m —6 b .1110'1 mq `4 Exhibit 2 A LOCAL CONTEXT CITY OF DUBLIN INITIAL STUDY 1 6549 SIERRA LANE ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT City of Dublin Page 6 Initial Study/6455-6557 Serra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Exhibit 3. Project Site ,,Cc\, I I I III I _ II� �H I Ii \ J -ia■ •PATIMAT- Sf00 CIE- VALW = CHUICH PIO ff 1O BIREUIEIl - _ 1371010 WANFACIVtq E — 648 8515 6509 j GRR tfIGL COII@Inh / /` • A LA3 A10 WNFACTIMi j CHIT A1D 91D �,\ I ass ,H Qa ABBJGATD M ]RIMY- COMER BONQ , 111 i I. / ';:i_ / ...A1111 / / 605 15 69I 6465 / w N. / tlCYCE THECCIA- '. VACANT A1BK%.4/H101NfE \ / /A _. SEMealnVle- \ N \ ' t ) IIIIILP11111AVu/./ �' „ i ” PACFC EYE 06V CCOALT E0V1ENT \ wilily m a STATE FARM __ (,^"� \ .\ gbc7 City of Dublin Page 7 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 1. Project description: Rezoning of approximately 5.3 acres of the Sierra Business Park from the M-1 (Light Industrial) Zoning District to the M-P (Industrial Park) Zoning District 2. Lead agency: City of Dublin 100 Civic Plaza Dublin, CA 94583 3. Contact person: Martha Aja, Dublin Planning Department (925) 833-6610 4. Project location: 6465-6557 Sierra Lane Dublin, CA 94558 5. Project contact person: Square I, LLC Attn: Edward Pike PO Box 458 Orinda, CA 94563 Phone: (925) 383-9894 6. General Plan Land Use Business Park-Industrial Designation: 7. Zoning Existing: M-1, Light Industrial Proposed. M-P, Industrial Park 8. Other public agency necessary, potential and/or desired approvals: • Building Permits and Zoning Clearances (City of Dublin) • Conditional Use Permit(s) (City of Dublin, possible) City of Dublin Page 8 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 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 - Cultural Resources - Geology/Soils Resources - Hazards and - Hydrology/Water - Land Use/ Hazardous Quality Planning Materials - Mineral Resources - Noise - Population/ Housing - Public Services - Recreation - Transportation/ Circulation - Utilities/Service - Mandatory Systems Findings 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 sigruficant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because the mitigation measures described on an attached sheet have been added to the project. A Mitigated Negative Declaration will be prepared. _I find that although the proposed project may have a significant effect 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, if the effect is a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially significant unless mitigated." An Environmental Impact Report is required, but must only analyze the effects that remain to be addressed. City of Dublin Page 9 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 I find that although the proposed project may have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because at least one or more potentially significant etfects 1) have been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR, including mitigation measures as described in the attached sheets. A supplemental Mitigated Negative Declaration is required, but must only analyze the effects that remain to be addressed as identified in this Initial Study. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not he a significant effect in this case because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed on the proposed project. Signature: Date: AlA y uSt 2- 3, 2o1 lo A Printed Name: 1"1& tj4 cam-- City of Dublin Page 10 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 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) In some instances, a "LS, Less-than-Significant Impact" response may reflect that a specific environmental topic has been analyzed in a previous CEQA document and appropriate mitigation measures have been included in a previous CEQA document to reduce this impact to a less-than-significant level. In a few instances, some previously analyzed topics were determined to be significant and unavoidable and mitigation of such impact to a less-than-significant level is not feasible. In approving the Eastern Dublin project, the City of Dublin adopted a Statement of Overriding Considerations for the significant unavoidable impacts identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR. A Statement of Overriding Considerations would also be required for the project if it could result in the identified significant unavoidable impacts. 3) 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 4) "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect is significant. If there are one or more "potentially significant impact" entries when the determination is made, an EIR is required. 5) "Negative Declaration: Less-Than-Significant With Mitigation Incorporated" implies elsewhere the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from "potentially significant effect" 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. 6) "No Impact" or "No New Impact" means that there would not be any impact with respect to this topic. City of Dublin Page 11 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Environmental Impacts (Note: Source of determination listed in parenthesis. See listing of sources used to determine each potential impact at the end of the checklist) Earlier Analyses Earlier analyses may he used where, pursuant to Hering, a program EIR, or other CEQA process, one or more effects have been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or Negative Declaration. Reference CEQA Guideline Section 15063 (c)(3)(d) No earlier analyses were used, this initial study is based on existing conditions City of Dublin Page 12 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Environmental Impacts (Note- Source of determination listed in parenthesis. See listing of sources at end of checklist used to determine each potential impact). Note: Afu11 discussion of each item is found Potentially Less Than i Less than I No Impact following the checklist Significant Significant Significant Impact With Impact Mitigation ' __ 1. Aesthetics. H iiuld the project a) Have a substantial adverse impact on a scenic - - { -X vista? (Source 1, 6) b) Substantially damage scenic resources. including -- but not limited to trees, rock outcroppings and X historic buildings within a state scenic highway° (Source. 1. 3, 6) CI Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? X (Source I, 6) d)Create a new source of substantial light or glare, which would adversely affect day o nighttime views in the area?(Source: 6) 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 Farmland X Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency,to a non- agricultural use?(Source- 1, 6) H _ b)Conflict w ith existing zoning for agriculture use r X or a Williamson Act contract?(I, 6) c)Conflict with existing zoning for. or cause rezoning of forestland (as defined by PRC Sec 12220(g),timberland(as defined in PRC Sec X 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland i Production (as defined in PRC Sec 51104 (g)? (Source: 1, 2) - d)Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use?(1, 2) X e) Involve other changes in the existing environment that, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of farmland to a non-agricultural X use or conversion of forestland to a non-forest use? (Source: 1,2) J City of Dublin Page 13 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Potential/) T Less Than Less than No hnpact Significant Significant I Significant Impact With Impact Mitigation j 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). I Would the project _ i a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? (Source. 1. 2) _ L X h) Violate any air quality standard or contribute i substantially to an existing or projected air X quality violation? (Source: 1. 2, 8) 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? (1,2.8) d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial X pollutant concentrations? (7, 8) _ el Create objectionable odors affecting a I X substantial number of people? (8) 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 ' X status species in local or regional plans, policies or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or the U S. Fish and Wildlife Service'(1, 2 3) b)have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies or '� X regulations or b) the California Department of Fish and Game or the U.S Fish and Wildlife Sery ice?(1,2, 3) c) Have a substantial adverse impact on federal/) protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including but not limited 1 X to marsh,vernal pool, coastal, etc )through I direct removal,filling,hydrological interruption i or other means^( 1, 2. 3) I City of Dublin Page 14 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Potentially Less Than Less than No Impact Significant Si{mifmant Significant i Impact With Impact ' i Mitigation , d I Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established name I X resident or migratory wildlife corridors or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites' (1, 2, 3) e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances X protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? i) Conflict with the provision of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan. Natural Community Conservation Plan or other I X approved local. regional or state habitat conservation plan? (Source: 1, 2. 8) 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, 2) b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archeological resource X pursuant to Sec. 15064.5? (Source: 1, 2) c)Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or unique geologic X feature' (Source: I. 2) d) Disturb any human remains, including those 1 interred outside of a formal cemetery? (1,2) X 6. Geology and Soils. Would the project a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk X 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 I of a known fault? (Source: 1) ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? (1) '�I _ _ X _ iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including ��, X liquefaction? (Source: 1) l iv) Landslides? (Source: 1) _ X b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of I X topsoil? (Source: l)) City of Dublin Page 15 Initial Study/6455-6557 Serra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Potentialh Less Than Leas than i No Impact Significant I Significant Significant Impact With Impact Mitigation I cl 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) d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in X Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property? (Source: 1) Ili 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? (8) 7. Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Would the project: a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either I directly or indirectly, that may have a X significant impact on the environment? (8) h) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or X regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases? 8. Hazards and Hazardous Materials. Would the project: I a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the X environment through the routine transport, use or disposal of hazardous materials? (2. 5) b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the ' environment through reasonably foreseeable I upset and accident conditions involving the X release of hazardous into the environment? I (6) --- -- - I- c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or X proposed school? (Source: I, 2. 6) —1 City of Dublin Page 16 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Potentially I, Less Than Less than No impact Significant Significant Significant 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 li X and, as a result.would it create a significant i hazard to the public or the environment? (8) ' I _ 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: 8) li 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: 8) g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with the adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation X plan? (Source: 1, 2. 6, 8) h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are X adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands? i (8) 9. Hydrology and Water Quality. 1Vould the project: a) Violate any water quality standards or waste X discharge requirements? (Source. 1, 2, 4) b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would he 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 j support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? (Source. 1, 2. 7) City of Dublin Page 17 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Potentially Less Than Less than No Impact Significant Significant Significant Impact With Impact Mitigations, 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. 2. 6) d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or areas. including through the alteration of a course or stream or racer, 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. 2. 61 e) Create or contribute runoff water which ii JI, would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or X provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? (Source: 1, 2, 6) l_ _ f) Otherwise substantially degrade water X quality? (Source: 1, 2. 6) g) Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard li area as mapped on a Flood Hazard Boundary X or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood delineation map? (Source: 1. 7) h) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which impede or redirect flood X flows? (Source: 1, 7) i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury. and death involving X flooding, including flooding as a result of the i failure of a levee or dam? (Sourc • 1, 7) i) Inundation by seiche. tsunami or mudflow? X 10. Land Use and Planning. Would the project. ' a) Physically divide an established community? (Source: 1,2. 6) X City of Dublin Page 18 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Potennall■ Less Than Less than No Impact Significant Significant Significant li Impact With Impact Mitigation bl 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. 2. 7) c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community X conservation plan? (Source: 1. 2, 8) 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? (2) _ h) Result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site ! delineated on a local general plan, specific i X plan or other land use plan? (Source: 2) 12. Noise. Would the proposal result in- a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise I levels in excess of standards established In the general plan or noise ordinance, or X applicable standards of other agencies? (4) b) Exposure of persons or to generation of excessive groundbome vibration or X groundbome noise levels? (Source: 4) c)A substantial permanent increase in ambient T noise levels in the project vicinity above X existing levels without the project? (4) d) A substantial temporary or periodic Increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity I X above levels without the project? (4) 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? (8) City of Dublin Page 19 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Potentially I Less Than , Less than No Impact Significant I Significant Significant Impact With Impact I 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 lei,els? (8) 13. Population and Housing H ould the project a) Induce substantial population growth in an area,either directly or indirectly(for X li example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure l? I1. 21 b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of X replacement housing elsewhere? (1, 2) c) Displace substantial numbers of people, �I necessitating the replacement of housing X elsewhere? (Source: 1, 2) 14. Public Services. Would the proposal: a) Would the project result in substantial adverse li X 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: 1. 2, 7) Fire protection? '_ X Police protection? X Schools? _ X Parks? _ X Other public facilities X IS. Recreation a) Would the project increase the use of existing i neighborhood or regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial X physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated?(Source: 1,2, 51 h)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, 5) ' City of Dublin Page 20 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Potentially Less Than Less than No Impact Significant Significant Significant Impact With Impact ' Mitigation 16. Transportation and Traffic. Would the project - - - a) Conflict with an applicable plan. ordinance or policy establishing measures of effecth eness 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 11 intersections, streets, highways and freeways. pedestrian and bicycle paths and mass transit9 (Source: 1, 2. 7) h) Conflict with an applicable congestion management program, including but not X limited to, level of service and travel i demand measures, or other standards established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways9(Source: 1, 2, 7) c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either an increase in traffic levels i X or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks? (Source: 1, 2) _ I d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design -i - - feature (e.g. sharp curves or dangerous X intersections) or incompatible uses, such as farm equipment? (Source. 7) 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? (7) 17. Utilities and Service Systems. Would the project a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality X Control Board? (Source: 2, 7) City of Dublin Page 21 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Potennalb Less Than Less than I No Impact ; Signaflcant Significant Significant Impact With Impact Mitigation b) Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or X expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects" (7) _ 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 I effects? (7) d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing water entitlements and resources, or are new or X expanded entitlements needed? (7) e) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity X to serve the project's projected demand in addition to the providers existing commitments? (Source: 7) fl 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? (7) 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 lesels, threaten to X eliminate a plant or animal community. reduce the number of or restrict the range of i a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? L, City of Dublin Page 22 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Potentially Less Than Less than No Impact Significant ' Significant Significant Impact With Impact Mitigation M 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 siewed 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 I X on human beings. either directly or indirectly? _ Sources used to determine potential environmental impacts 1) Dublin General Plan, City of Dublin (Amended as of November 18, 2014) 2) Site Visit 3) Discussion with City staff or service provider 4) Other Source City of Dublin Page 23 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 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/No New Impact Note: The Checklist questions below are based on the Appendix G checklist in the state CEQA Guidelines; please see the Checklist above or the Guidelines for the full text of the questions. 1. Aesthetics Project Impacts a-c) Have a substanhal adverse impact on a scenic vista, damage scenic resources (including a scenic highway) or substantially degrade the visual character of a site? NI. The project site is presently developed with single-story light industrial buildings, parking areas and landscaping. No significant natural features exist on the site, including but not limited to major strands of trees, large rock outcroppings or bodies of water. The nearest roadway, Sierra Lane, is not designated as either a local or state scenic highway. Future office and other M-P uses would occur within the envelope of existing buildings. This is because the site is fully developed and there is no room to expand the existing parking to accommodate additional building area; therefore, there would be no new or expanded buildings. There would be no change to existing conditions and no impact with respect to substantial impacts on a scenic vista, damage to scenic resources or the visual character of the project site. d) Create light or glare? NI. Existing sources of exterior lighting are present on the site m terms of parking lot lighting and building-mounted security and identification lighting No additional light fixtures are proposed to be added to the site as part of the proposed rezoning because all future development would consist of use changes or tenant improvements within existing buildings. Future uses on the project will either be permitted or conditionally permitted, but all would be subject to the Section 8.28.030.F industrial performance standards which require that there be no direct or sky-reflected glare or heat discernible at the property lines. Compliance with this standard ensures that future exterior City of Dublin Page 24 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 light fixtures would not create substantial light and glare that would adversely affect day or night views m the area. No impacts are anticipated with respect to this topic. 2. Agricultural & Forestry Resources Project Impacts a-c) Convert Prime Farmland, conflict with agncultural zoning or a Williamson Act Conservation Agreement or convert prime farmland to a non-agricultural use? NI. The 5.3-acre site is fully developed with light industrial buildings and ancillary improvements with no agricultural operations. The site is zoned for industrial uses and no Williamson Act land conservation contract exists on the property. The project would have no impacts on agricultural ]and or zoning. d) Result in the loss of forest land or conversion afforest land to a non forest use? NI. No forest land exists on the site and no impact would result from project approval. e) Involve other changes which, due to their location or nature, could result of forest land to a non forest use? NI. See item "d," above. 3. Air Quality Project Impacts a) Would the project conflict with or obstruct implementation of an air quality plan? NI The BAAQMD Clean Air Plan assumes development under local general plans. The current project was approved and built in the late 1970's and is consistent with the City of Dublin General Plan. No changes to the General Plan are proposed as part of this project; therefore, the project would not be inconsistent with or obstruct implementation of an air quality plan. All future uses on the project site will be reviewed by the Dublin Community Development Staff through the building permit or other land use application process to ensure such uses would be consistent with land uses included in the Land Use Element of the General Plan. No impacts would result in terms of inconsistency with or obstruction of the regional Clean Air Plan. b, c) Would the project violate any air quality standards or result in cumulatively considerable air pollutants? NI The project site is developed with light industrial uses, parking areas and landscaping It is anticipated that up to 11,700 square feet of the total 71,600 square feet could convert from light industrial uses to offices uses over the next five years, resulting in approximately 18,300 square feet of office uses. The primary source of increased emissions over existing conditions would be the City of Dublin Page 25 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 conversion of current light industrial uses to office uses Construction emissions related to tenant improvements within the buildings would be limited and temporary. Heavier truck traffic would likely be reduced with office uses permitted in the M-P Zoning District since this district limits or prohibits certain industrial uses that are currently permitted in the M-1 Zomng District. Although future office uses could generate more vehicle trips than the current light industrial uses, such increases would likely be offset by fewer delivery truck trips and emissions of manufacturing-related pollutants. Therefore, no impact is anticipated for this topic. d) Expose sensitive receptors to significant pollutant concentrations? NI. The proposed project would not change the light industrial occupancy of the three buildings included in the application. Future industrial park uses that could be allowed in the project site should the rezoning be approved would be limited to those uses that would not generate a significant amount of pollutants. Limitations on pollutant emissions are controlled by industrial performance standards in Sections 8.28.030.E and H of the Dublin Zoning Ordinance and are enforced by the City's Community Development Department. Additionally, there are a limited number of sensitive receptors located adjacent to the project site. The closest schools are located a half mile northwest of the project site. While Tralee is located across the street from the project site and includes residential, the City does not expect a significant increase in pollutant concentrations since the existing uses generate traffic and pollution and the proposed project would simply allow office uses as a permitted use. There would be no impacts with respect to this topic e) Create objectionable odors? NI. The project would not result in land uses on the project site that would emit objectionable odors since future uses would need to be consistent with the M-P Zoning District performance standards for industrial park uses, including Section 8.28.030.G of the Dublin Zoning Ordinance which prohibits emission of odorous gasses or matter that would be discernible at the property line The M-P Zoning District also requires that all uses to be conducted entirely within the buildings. Compliance with these performance standards will ensure that future M-P uses will not create objectionable odors No impacts are therefore anticipated. 4. Biological Resources Project Impacts a) Have a substantial adverse impact on a candidate, sensitive, special-status species riparian habitat or wetlands? NI. The project site is located in a fully urbanized area of central Dublin The project site has been developed with industrial City of Dublin Page 26 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 buildmgs, parking lots, driveways and limited ornmental landscaping No protected or special-status plant or wildlife species exist on the site Surrounding uses include light industrial uses to the north and west and retail commercial/residential uses to the east and south. No surrounding properties provide suitable habitat for protected or special-status plant or animal species. No creeks, streams, ponds, wetlands or other waters exist on the site or on nearby properties since these properties are fully developed. There would be no impacts with respect to candidate, sensitive, special-status or otherwise protected plant or wildlife species or on wetlands or riparian habitat should this project be approved. b, c) Have a substantial adverse impact on npanan habitat or federally protected wetlands? NI. As noted above, the project property is fully developed with buildings, parking lots, driveways and other improvements. No wetlands, other waters, creeks or streams are present on the site or on nearby properties. Any construction that is proposed in the future as a result of this project would be in the form of interior tenant improvements within the suites so there would be no impact with respect to this topic. d) Interfere with movement of native fish or wildlife species? NI. With the built-up, urbanized nature of the site and the surrounding properties, it is very unlikely that wildlife species or native fish use any portion of the property as a migratory corridor. No impacts would occur with respect to this topic. e, Q Conflict with local policies or ordinances protechng biological resources or any adopted Habitat Conservation Plans or Natural Community Conservation Plans? NI. The project 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. The project site is fully developed with existing operating uses and no biological resources exist on the site. Since there is no habitat or species affected by the project, no impacts are anticipated with respect to the EACCS and there is no conflict to art adopted Habitat Conservation Plan since none exist. City of Dublin Page 27 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 5. Cultural Resources Project Impacts a) Cause substantial adverse change to sigm¢cuut historic resources? NI. Buildings on the project site were constructed in the late 1970's and exhibit no historical characteristics, nor is the site known to be associated with historic figures in local, state or national history. No new or exterior construction is proposed as part of this project It is possible that façade improvements to existing buildings could he proposed in the future, but no impacts would result with respect to a significant change to a historic resource because the buildings are not historic resources. h-d) Cause a substantial adverse impact or destruction to archeological or paleontological resources, or human remains that may be interred outside of a formal cemetery? NI. The project site is fully developed with buildings, paving/parking and landscaping. As noted earlier, no new or expanded building area is likely due to site and regulatory constraints. Future development on the site would be in the form of changed uses and related interior tenant improvements. There would be no related ground disturbance that could affect any currently unknown resources or remains. The General Plan does not identify the potential for cultural resources on or around the site. No evidence has been found that the project site was previously used as a cemetery. In the absence of ground disturbance from future uses under the proposed rezoning, there would be no impact with respect to impacts on archeological or paleontological resources, or human remains 6. Geology and Soils Project Impacts a) Eipose people or structures to potential substantial adverse impacts, including loss, nqunj or death related to ground rupture, seismic ground shaking, ground failure, or landslides? IS. The site is not located in an identified fault rupture zone so there is no potential for ground rupture. The site is flat so there is no potential for landslides or other slope-related impacts As noted earlier, the site is fully developed with existing buildings, paving/parking and landscaping so there would be no expanded building area, grading or other ground disturbance that could raise geologic Issues. Any future construction under the rezoning would he in the form of interior use changes and related tenant improvements. The change of approximately 11,700 square feet to office uses could potentially increase the number of employees and visitors to the site, as reflected in the increased traffic trip generation identified in City of Dublin Page 28 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Section 16 below. Any of the construction activities would be required to meet the stringent California Building Code seismic requirements in effect at the time of building permit submittal. The modest potential increase in employees and visitors from additional office uses together with compliance with adopted seismic construction standards ensures that seismic-related impacts would be less-than-significant. b) Is the site subject to substantial erosion and/or the loss of topsoil? NI. The project site is fully developed with buildings, paving/parking and landscaping. As noted earlier, no new or expanded building area is likely duc to site and regulatory constraints. Future development on the site would be in the form of changed uses in accordance with the M-P Zoning District and related interior tenant improvements. There would be no related ground disturbance or grading that could cause erosion of loss of topsoil; therefore, there would be no impact with respect to this topic. c-d) Is the site located on soil that is unstable or expansive and that could result in potential lateral spreading, liquefaction, landslide or collapse? LS. The site is located within a liquefaction hazard area as mapped by the City of Dublin (jayson Imai, Dublin Public Works Department, 4/23/16). As noted earlier, the site is fully built-out and no new or expanded building is expected due to site and regulatory constraints. Any future construction under the rezoning would be in the form of interior use changes and related tenant improvements. Any of the construction activities would be required to meet the stringent California Building Code seismic requirements in effect at the lime of building permit submittal. e) Have soils incapable of supporting on-site septic tanks if sewers are not available? NI. Existing buildings are connected to sanitary sewers owned and maintained by the Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD). As noted earlier, the site is fully built-out and no new or expanded building is expected due to site and regulatory constraints. Any future construction would be in the form of interior use changes and related tenant improvements. No impacts would therefore result with regard to septic systems. 7. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Project Impacts 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? NI City of Dublin Page 29 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Existing buildings and uses on the site currently emit greenhouse gases, from both vehicles traveling to and from the site as well as from the operation of existing light industrial uses on the site. It is anticipated that office uses that could locate on the site under the proposed M-P Zoning District would generate slightly greater quantities of greenhouse gasses. This would be as a result of greater vehicle trips associated with future M-P uses (see Section 16, Transportation and Traffic). However, the project is located on an infill site, no general plan amendment is required for this project and future greenhouse gas emissions from development under the General Plan have been addressed in the City of Dublin Climate Action Plan, last updated in 2013 There would therefore be no impact with respect to this topic. 8. Hazards and Hazardous Materials Project Impacts a) Create significant hazards to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use or disposal hazardous materials? NI. The current M4 Zoning District and the proposed M-P Zoning District allows light industrial uses that could involve hazardous materials. The transport, use or disposal of hazardous materials is subject to extensive federal, state and regional regulation intended to ensure that such uses are controlled, contained, etc., to protect the public, handling employees, and the environment. The City likewise regulates hazardous materials through industrial performance standards in Section 828.030.B, D, and I, and Section 8.28.040 of the Dublin Zoning Ordinance. These standards limit radioactivity, flammable or explosive materials, and discharge of liquid contaminants, and are applicable to uses in both the M-1 and M-P Zoning Districts Implementation of the proposed project would not change any current uses or occupancies on the site that involve industrial, manufacturing or similar land uses or activities that would use, generate, transport or store significant quantities of hazardous materials. These existing uses would continue to be subject to all applicable hazardous materials regulations. If approved, the proposed M-P Zoning District would allow office uses, with a lower probability of using, transporting, storing or handling potential hazardous materials on the site The M-P Zoning District also prohibits or limits uses that might involve hazardous materials, compared to the current M-1 Zoning District. The addition of offices as permitted uses and lesser intensity of industrial uses in the M-P Zoning District compared to the M4 Zoning District would likely reduce the potential for transport, use or disposal of hazardous materials at the site. These circumstances together with compliance with the City's performance standards will ensure that there would be no significant impact with regard to this topic. City of Dublin Page 30 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 h, c) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accidental conditions involving the release of hazardous materials Into the environment or emit hazardous materials or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances or wastes within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? NI. No changes are proposed to current uses operating on the project site. Existing uses generally consist of light industrial and similar uses that do not use or handle significant quantifies of hazardous or potentially hazardous materials. The current uses plus any uses that are conducted in the future would be subject to all applicable regulations, including the City's industrial performance standards The change from the M-1 Zoning District to the M-P Zoning District would expand permitted uses to include offices, which would not be a source of reasonably foreseeable upset or accident or release of hazardous materials. In addition, the M-P Zoning District is more restrictive of industrial uses and would likely reduce the potential for such upset, accident or release. The change in potential uses from the rezoning would not be expected to cause a significant impact on this topic. Public schools that are closest to the project site are Valley High School and Wells Middle School, each located approximately one-half mile northwest of the project site. No impact is anticipated with respect to this topic. d) Be listed on a site that is included on a list of hazardous inatenals sites complied on the Cortese List and, as a result, would create a significant hazard to the public or environment? NI. The site is not included on the Cortese List as of March 28, 2016. The Cortese List identifies one potentially contaminated site in Dublin, which is the Parks RFTA (also known as Camp Parks) Parks RFTA is located approximately 1,000 feet east of the project site and no impact would result 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. The project site lies outside of the Airport Influence Area (AIA) of Livermore Municipal Airport (see Figure 3-1, Livermore Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan, County of Alameda, 2012). No impact would result with respect to this topic. g) Interference with an emergency evacuation plan? NI. The project site and area are served by existing public streets, which provide emergency access to the site. No building expansion is likely due to site and regulatory constraints. Potential use changes and related tenant improvements within the existing buildings would not interfere with emergency evacuation plans. No impacts are anticipated with regard to this topic. City of Dublin Page 31 Study/ 000-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA# PLPA#20101 4--00034 h) Expose people and stnrctinres to a significant risk of loss, Injury or death involving wildlmnd fires or where residences ate intermixed with wildlands? NI. The project site is located in central Dublin and is surrounded by other fully developed light industrial, commercial and/or mixed-use developments. No wildlands or undeveloped properties are located near the site. No impact is anticipated with respect to this topic. 9. Hydrology and Water Quality Project Impacts a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements? NI. The project site is fully developed with existing buildings, paving/parking and landscaping. No additional or expanded building area is expected due to site and regulatory constraints. The rezoning from MA to M-P would allow office uses on the site and would reduce the range of permitted light industrial uses. The rezoning would likely result in changes of uses within the existing buildings and related interior tenant improvements. The potential addition of office uses on the site would not significantly increase existing wastewater flows to the Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) wastewater treatment plant in Pleasanton or adversely affect water quality. According to DSRSD representatives, the District treatment plant is currently operating within waste discharge limits as approved by the Regional Water Quality Control Board (source: Stan Kolodzie, engineer, DSRSD, 3/30/16) and there would be no impact with respect to this topic. h) Substantially deplete groundwater recharge areas or lowering of water table? NI The source of water to all structures in the City of Dublin is imported water supplied by DSRSD and Zone 7 Flood Control and Water Conservation District, which relies primarily on imported water from other sources. The project site is fully developed with buildings, paved parking and landscaped areas so that there is minimal, if any, groundwater recharge presently occurring. The proposed rezoning to the M-P Zoning District would not change these conditions. No impacts would result with respect to this topic. c) Substantially alter drainage patterns, including streambed courses such that substantial siltation or erosion would occur.? NI. No changes to current drainage patterns are proposed as part of the project, since no expansion of the existing buildings or construction of new buildings would be possible based on site and regulatory constraints, as noted earlier. The site is in a developed area in central Dublin with existing development draining to the public storm drain system. There is no drainage from or to anv streams or creeks and no significant amounts of siltation or erosion would occur. No impacts would result City of Dublin Page 32 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 d, (.) Substantially alter drainage patterns or result m flooding, either on or off the project site, create stormwater runoff that would exceed the capacity of drainage systems or add substantial amounts of polluted runoff? NI. Refer to item "c," above. No changes to the existing drainage patterns or increases in the amount of current stormwater runoff from the site is anticipated. f) Suhstanhally degrade water quality? NI. See items a-e above, the site is fully built out in a developed area and drains to the public storm drain system. The rezoning would add office uses as a permitted use. Office uses are not likely to involve contaminants that could substantially degrade flows from the site to the storm drain system; therefore, there would be no increases in any degradation of water quality from current levels. 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. The project includes a rezoning to the M-P Zoning District. No housing is permitted in either the existing or proposed zoning districts. The site is not located within a 100-year flood plain or in a dam inundation area. No impacts are anticipated with respect to this topic. j) Result in inundation by senche, tsunami or nzudflows? NI. The project site is located inland from major bodies of water and not subject to seiche or tsuami. Surrounding properties are flat with no major topographic relief that could cause significant mudflows or landslides onto the project site. No impacts are anticipated with respect to this topic 10. Land Use and Planning Project Impacts a) Physically divide an established commnity? NI. The project site is built out and fully surrounded by existing light industrial, commercial and mixed-use development (of which a portion is high density residential). The proposed rezoning expands permitted uses to include offices within the existing buildings. The proposed rezoning would not change existing physical site conditions and would not physically divide an established community No impacts are anticipated. b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy or regulation? NI. No amendments are required to the Dublin General Plan or other local regulations that have been adopted to protect the environment. The project City of Dublin Page 33 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 would involve a requested zone change and no impacts are anticipated with respect to this topic. c) Conflict with a habitat consemahon plan or natural community conservation plan? NI The project site and surrounding properties have been fully developed with urban uses. No new or expanded building construction would result from the requested rezoning and there would he no impact to a habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan as neither type of plan exists on the site. 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 are identified on the project site in the Dublin General Plan. 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 other applicable standard? NI. Approval of the proposed project would change the zoning from M-1 to M-P. Although no changes to existing site occupancies are currently proposed, the M-P Zoning District would add office uses as a permitted use. An additional 11,700 square feet of office uses could be developed on the project site in the existing buildings Such uses would generate more vehicle trips than light industrial uses, which could increase local roadway noise. Vehicle trips are discussed in Section 16 of this Initial Study, Transportation and Traffic. Uses permitted in the M-P Zoning District (such as office uses) could generate less operational noise than uses that are allowed in the M-1 Zoning District, which include equipment and materials storage yard, impound yards and vehicle storage yards. If the rezoning is approved, the operational noise generated on the site is expected to be less since the M-P Zoning District requires that all uses be conducted entirely indoors. Surrounding land uses generally include light industrial and commercial uses, although some residences exist to the south, so that there would be few sensitive noise receptors. The City does not expect a significant increase in noise resulting from additional vehicle trips since the existing tenants generate vehicle trips, the increase in vehicle trips will not he substantial and there are multiple routes to access the project site. City of Dubin Page 34 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 b) Exposure of people to excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? NI. The project site is fully developed. There would be no construction undertaken as a result of the project other than interior tenant improvements; therefore, there would be no impact with respect to vibration or groundborne noise c, d) Substanhal permanent or temporary increases in permanent in ambient noise levels? NI. No impact is anticipated to occur with respect to a permanent or temporary increase in noise from the site. No new or expanded building construction is expected that would generate temporary noise because the site is fully developed. Interior tenant improvements for office and other uses permitted in the M-P Zoning District would be subject to the City's restrictions on construction hours to ensure there would he no significant construction noise impacts. A substantial permanent increase in noise is not anticipated since the M-P Zoning District requires that all uses he conducted entirely indoors. e, f) Be located within an airport land use plan area, within two miles of a public or private airport or airstrip? NI. The project site lees outside of the Airport Influence Area (AIA) of Livermore Municipal Airport (see Figure 3-1, Livermore Municipal Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan, County of Alameda, 2012). No impacts would occur with respect to this topic. 13. Population and Housing Project Impacts a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly or indirectly? NI. The project site is developed with light industrial buildings and no construction is proposed as a part of the project. Although future office uses could be allowed on the site should the requested rezoning be approved, it is a fully developed site with existing businesses and employees. Possible future office uses could generate additional employees; however, the increase would be small given the scope of the project. There would therefore be no direct or indirect population growth facilitated as a result of the project b, c) Would the project displace substantial numbers of existing housing units or people requiring replacement housing? NI. No residences exist on the project site that would be displaced. No impacts would occur with respect to this topic. City of Dublin Page 35 Initial Study/6455-6557 Serra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 14. Public Services Environmental Impacts a) Fire protection? NI. The City of Dublin contracts with the Alameda County Fire Department for fire suppression, emergency medical, rescue and fire inspection services. Future M-P uses that would be permitted as part of the project could result in a slight increase in the number of calls for emergency services based upon an increase in office uses. The increase in employees would be limited given the scope of the project. A representative of the Alameda Counts, Fire Department has reviewed the proposed project and has found that no new or expanded fire facilities would be required to serve the additional population included in the proposed project (Bonnie Terra, ACFD, 3/18/16) No impacts would result as a result of the proposed project. b) Police protection? NI Similar to fire service, there would likely be a slight increase in the number of calls for service to the Dublin Police Services based on allowing office uses. A representative from the Dublin Police Services has reviewed the proposed project and found that no new or expanded Police Services facilities would be needed as a result of project approval (Chief Dennis Houghtelling 3/28/16). c) Schools 7 NI. Public educational services in Dublin are provided by the Dublin Unified School District. The District maintains a number of K-12 schools throughout Dublin There are also a number of private educational facilities in the community Since no dwellings are included in the proposed project and no construction is proposed that could directly facilitate growth that would add students, no impacts are proposed with respect to this topic. d) Maintenance of public facilities, including roads? NI. No public facilities are proposed to be constructed as part of the rezoning project so there would be no impact with respect to this topic. e) Solid waste generation? NI. See item 17 (F-G), below. 15. Recreation Protect Impacts a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood or regional parks? NI. No dwellings or other structures would be constructed as part of the proposed project, since the project only includes a change from one industrial City of Dublin Page 36 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 zoning district to another There would he no Impact with respect to an increase in use of City or regional park facilities. b) Does the protect include recreational facilities or require the construction of recreational facilities? NI. The proposed project includes a rezoning from the M-1 Zoning District to the MA' Zoning District and does not include the construction of recreational facilities. No impact would result with respect to this topic. 16. Transportation/Traffic Project Impacts a, b) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial relative to existing traffic land and street; or exceed LOS standards established by the County CMA for designated roads? LS. The project site is currently developed and is generating traffic to and from the site. Should the requested rezoning to the M-P Zoning District be approved, office uses would be allowed on the project site. The Dublin Public Works Department has estimated existing trips to and from the site compared with anticipated future trips under a industrial park scenario during the morning and afternoon peak hour (see Table 2). Peak hour trips are considered the most intense in comparison with other hours of the day and this measurement is generally used to analyze project traffic impacts. The City threshold for determining if additional traffic impact analysis is required is whether a project would increase any peak hour trips by 50 or more If project trip generation is less than this threshold, the impact would be less than significant. Table 2. Project Peak Hour Trip Generation Zoning Current Light Proposed Industrial Trip Generation Classification Industrial Use Park Use Change _ ITE Trip Generation Light Industrial Industrial Park -- Category r A.M Peak Trip Generation 59 7011 +41 P.M. Peak Trip Generation 60 90 +30 Note 1 Tnp rates based on ITE Trip Generation Manual, 9i"edition Source- City of Dublin Traffic Division, Public Works Department Based on the above, the proposed rezoning could generate up to 41 additional vehicle trips in the A M. peak and 30 additional trips in the P M peak period. These potential trip increases would not exceed the City's significance threshold Based on City of Dublin records for intersection and City of Dublin Page 37 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00334 street operations near the project site there would be no significant impacts on local or regional roads, or Alameda County Congestion Management Agency (CMA) roads (source W Lai, City of Dublin, April 2016) c) Result in a change of air traffic patterns? NI. The proposed project would have no impact on air traffic patterns, since it involves an industrial rezoning in the central part of Dublin. d) Substantially increase luicards due to a design feature or incompatible use? NI. There would be no increase in any existing design feature hazards since no construction is proposed as part of this project e) Result in inadequate emergency access? NI. No impacts would occur with regard to emergency access since no new development would be constructed that could block an emergency access route or an evacuation route. f) Conflict with adopted policies, plans or programs supporting alternative transportation modes? NI. If approved, the zoning of the project site would be changed from the M-1 Zoning District to the M-P Zoning District There would be no impacts on local transportation systems, including but not limited to bus systems, bicycle routes and pedestrian paths. 17. Utilities and Service Systems Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the RWQCB? NI. The project site is within the Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) and receives wastewater collection, treatment and disposal services from DSRSD. Approval of the requested rezoning could slightly increase wastewater generation from the site if more intensive office uses locate on the site. Future uses in the project area are unknown but could result in slightly greater wastewater flows from existing conditions due to potentially more intensive office uses. Regardless, DSRSD representatives have indicated that even with the approval of the requested rezoning, DSRSD wastewater facilities are considered to be adequate to accommodate future flows and would not exceed Regional Water Quality Control Board discharge requirements (source: Stan Kolodzie, DSRSD engineer, 3/30/16) No impact is anticipated with respect to this topic. h) Require new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities? NI A representative from DSRSD notes that the District can provide water and wastewater facilities to the project site if the requested rezoning to City of Dublin Page 38 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 the M-P Zoning District is approved without new or expanded facilities (Stan Kolodzie, DSRSD, 3/30/16) No impacts would occur with respect to this topic. c) Require new storm drainage .facilities or expansion of existing facilities? NI. See Hydrology Section, 9d d) Are sufficient mater supplies available? NI. DSRSD currently provides water for domestic and fire suppression purposes via a network of water mains, laterals and related facilities throughout the City of Dublin, including the project site. The amount of water required to serve future uses permitted in the M-P Zoning District could be slightly higher than water needed for current uses due to potentially more office uses However, the District has indicated that an adequate long-term water supply can be provided to the project site even with approval of the requested rezoning (source: Stan Kolodzie, DSRSD engineer, 3/30/16). No impact is anticipated with respect to this topic. e) Adequate wastewater capacity to serve the proposed project? NI. See item "a," above. f, g) Solid waste disposal? NI Existing businesses on the project site are currently generating solid waste and recycling. It is anticipated that approximately the same quantity of solid waste would be generated should the rezoning be approved since the solid waste generated by office uses would be approximately equivalent to the solid waste generated by the existing light industrial uses. No significant impact would occur with respect to this topic. 18. Mandatory Findings of Significance a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the enviroment, 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 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 the proposed project would not have a significant adverse impact on the environment, cultural resources or have the potential to affect fish or wildlife habitats, or populations or plant communities, or restrict the range of rare or endangered species, based on the analysis included in this Initial Study. City of Dublin Page 39 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 h) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, hut 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, the proposed project involves a rezoning of a fully developed site from the M-1 Zoning District to the M-P Zoning District No significant cumulative impacts have been identified in this Initial Study. c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? No. Based on the preceding Initial Study, no substantial effects to human beings, either directly or indirectly have been identified. City of Dublin Page 40 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 Initial Study Preparers Jerre- Haag, Urban Planner, Project Manager and Principal Author Rob Tuma, Report Graphics Agencies and Organizations Consulted The following agencies and organizations were contacted in the course of this Initial Study: City of Dublin Luke Sims,Community Development Director Jeff Baker, Assistant Community Development Director Martha Aja, Associate Planner Ohaid Khan, Transportation and Operations Manager Jayson lmai, Senior Civil Engineer William Lai, Assistant Civil Engineer Bonnie Terra, Alameda County Fire Department Chief Dennis Houghtelling, Dublin Police Services Kit Faubion, Assistant City Attorney California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) Website Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) Stan Kolozdie,Staff Engineer References Municipal Code,City of Dublin Dublin General Plan, updated through November 2014 Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, updated through October 2014 Bay Area Air Quality Management District's Clean Air Plan, September 15, 2010 Eastern Alameda County Conservation Strategy (EACCS), October 2010 California Department of Toxic Substances Control, vvebsite, July 2014 City of Dublin, Climate Action Plan Update, July 2013 City of Dublin Page 41 Initial Study/6455-6557 Sierra Lane August 2016 PLPA#2014-00034 DUBLIN C A L I F O R N I A Negative Declaration Date August 25, 2016 Project Title Sierra Business Center Rezone Project Application PLPA-2014-00034 Project Location The project site is located at 6465-6557 Sierra Lane (APN#941-0205- 020) in the City of Dublin, CA in Alameda County. Project Applicant Edward Pike, Square I, LLC, PO Box 458, Orinda, CA 94563 Phone: 925-383-9894 Contact Martha Aja, Associate Planner, City of Dublin Community, Development Department, 100 Civic Plaza, Dublin, CA 94568 Phone: 925-833-6610 martha.aja @dublin.ca.gov Project Description The applicant has requested that the City of Dublin change the zoning district on the site from the current M-1 (Light Industrial) Zoning District to the M-P (Industrial Park) Zoning District. Both the existing M-1 and the proposed M-P Zoning Districts are consistent with the site's General Plan Business Park/Industrial land use designation. Under the current M-1 Zoning District, office uses are not permitted. If the zoning district were to be changed to the proposed M-P Zoning District, professional and administrative offices would be an allowed use within the complex. Finding The City hereby finds that the above project could not have a significant effect on the environment and a Negative Declaration is the appropriate environmental review under CEQA. The Initial Study documenting the reasons to support the above finding is a separately bound document, incorporated herein by reference and available for public review during normal business hours at City Hall from the Contact above. CITYY OF DUBLIN Martha j ociateklanner Date: Considered by: On: Resolution No.: NOD Filed: Negative Declaration i8/23/2016)