HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-04-10 - AGENDA REPORTS - FINAL EIR DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVE (2)10
Agenda Item: 10
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
AGENDA REPORT
PUBLIC HEARINGS
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:
DATE: April 10, 2018
SUBJECT: FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE
DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE,
PROJECT S3023
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
PRESENTER: Mike Hennawy
RECOMMENDED ACTION
City Council:
1. Conduct the continued Public Hearing and receive the staff report, presentation, and public
comments.
2. Adopt a resolution certifying the Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) (State
Clearinghouse Number 2013082016) prepared for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive
Extension project, which includes the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Environmental Findings, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and the Statement
of Overriding Considerations.
3. Adopt a resolution approving the alignment of the Dockweiler Drive Extension as described
in the Final Environmental Impact Report as Alternative 2 (alignment to Arch Street/13th
Street without at-grade rail crossing at Lyons Avenue), and authorizing staff to submit an
application to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) for applicable
improvements to the 13th Street at-grade rail crossing.
BACKGROUND
This hearing will provide the City Council with responses to questions and concerns expressed
by both the City Council and public regarding the extension of Dockweiler Drive at the February
27 public hearing and will certify the Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Certification of
the Final EIR by the City Council will allow the City to proceed with the appropriate application
to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) for rail crossing improvements and the
approval of the roadway alignment will confirm the project is consistent with the City of Santa
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Clarit
City Council's approval of this item authorize construction of this roadway. Future development
in the surrounding area will require additional environmental analysis related to any proposed
projects.
extension of Dockweiler Drive is the environmentally superior
alternative (Alternative 2) as identified in the Final EIR for the roadway alignment. This
alignment would connect the Dockweiler Drive extension to Arch Street and to the existing 13th
Street at-grade rail crossing at Railroad Avenue. The alignment, which will be referred to as The
Project, would require street improvements to both Arch Street and 13th Street and would
provide a fully upgraded railroad crossing on 13th Street at Railroad Avenue. The Project would
be approximately 0.67 miles in length and will be designated as a four-lane secondary highway
per the Joint Highway Plan. The proposed ultimate roadway improvements from the 13th Street
four-lane roadway with a 12-foot raised landscaped median, a 13-foot sidewalk/parkway and a 5-
foot bike lane on each side. The typical right-of-way width would be 92 feet. The Project would
not include a connection of the roadway to Lyons Avenue, a new at-grade rail crossing, or a
bridge over the Newhall Creek.
At the February 27, 2018 City Council meeting, the City Council opened the public hearing,
received a presentation from staff and accepted public testimony on the Final EIR prepared for
the extension of Dockweiler Drive (see attached 2.27.18 Agenda Report). The City Council
requested the public hearing be continued to the April 10, 2018, City Council meeting for further
research and evaluation.
The following are questions/concerns posed at the last public hearing including responses to
each.
What is the need for the Dockweiler Drive Extension?
Plan was designed as an integrated network of
Housing Element. Each roadway in the Circulation Element, existing and future, is critical to the
proper functioning of th
Circulation Element would cause a shift in traffic to other roadways, resulting in increased traffic
volumes, congestion, and delay throughout the City. The extension of Dockweiler Drive is a key
segment in the Circulation Element and has been continuously supported by the City Council
beginning with
1997 and 2011.
kweiler Drive as a secondary highway. Roadway
improvements identified in the Circulation Element include constructing the Dockweiler Drive
roadway segment, a four-lane roadway, from its current terminus to Railroad Avenue. Without
the extension of Dockweiler Drive, future traffic volumes along Newhall Avenue, a six-lane
arterial, at complete build-out, are projected to be approximately 58,000 vehicles per day, which
exceed the 54,000 vehicle per day capacity of a six-lane arterial. The overload would be
detrimental to the traffic circulation in the area resulting in a gridlock, adversely affecting the
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quality of life for residents. With the extension, future traffic volumes on Newhall Avenue are
projected to be between 45,000 and 50,000 vehicles per day.
The purpose of the EIR is to study multiple alternative roadway alignments for Dockweiler
Drive, each of which would alleviate existing and projected traffic congestion on Newhall
Avenue. Various alignment options which connect Sierra Highway to Railroad Avenue from
Railroad Avenue on the west to the approved The
Drive extension to the east, have been evaluated. This project is identified by the City as one of
its key transportation projects. In addition to being pa
is identified as part of the Old Town Newhall Specific Plan and the Compass Blueprint Concept
Plan. Certification of the Final EIR for The Project supports the Building and Creating
five-year strategic plan, Santa Clarita 2020.
The Project will also provide additional access to the Placerita Canyon community. This access
will be vital to first-responders during inclement weather, severe conditions, and emergency
situations which may result in the evacuation of residents and/or community members. Placerita
Canyon has historically experienced acute flooding and is susceptible to brush fires. More
importantly, this additional access point does not cross any railroad tracks, eliminating the
possibility of Placerita Canyon being inaccessible as a result of rail gate malfunctions, traffic
accidents, or other unavoidable situations associated with the rail line. Currently, the only public
ingress and egress is at the 13th Street crossing, as only a select number of residents within the
Placerita Canyon community possess the required access code for the eastern gate, which is
accessible from Sierra Highway. This roadway extension would guarantee access for all
residents from both sides of Placerita Canyon including all The faculty and
students.
benefits related to the extension of Dockweiler Drive were included. They are as follows:
1. Redirecting campus access and traffic through the new campus entrance at the Dockweiler
entry and away from Placerita Canyon Road;
2. Restricting dormitory parking access to the new Dockweiler entry; and
3. Providing a secondary emergency access roadway for Placerita Canyon residents and The
faculty and students.
The Project would support these traffic/circulation improvements and would not preclude these
benefits from being completed.
Why build the road now?
After approval of the road alignment and certification of the EIR document, staff anticipates the
road will take approximately five to six years to be fully constructed and open for public travel.
This timeline includes the CPUC approval as well as design and construction activities.
Additionally, this timeline correlates with the expiration dates set forth by the 2013 and 2015
Metro Call for Projects, which awarded grant funding totaling $11,374,000 for the design and
construction of The Project. Based on the guidelines set by Metro, the awarded funds must be
spent on the extension of Dockweiler Drive, which includes alternative alignments, and cannot
be reassigned to any other road or roadway project within the City.
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Likewise, the City anticipates that many developments may be constructed within the vicinity of
The Project in the next five to six years, including Needham Ranch, Newhall Crossings/
Laemmle, The The Golden Oak Ranch, Dockweiler 21, Oak
Ridge Industrial Park, Park Vista, and Placerita Ranch/Ravello. However, not all roadways
the completion of these
developments. For this reason, Newhall Avenue will likely exceed its capacity given the
additional vehicles in th
to meeting the needs of the City.
Build no road and upgrade the rail crossing at 13th Street
Construction of The Project, as defined in the EIR, would provide an improved and upgraded at-
grade railroad crossing on 13th Street at Railroad Avenue. The railroad crossing would be
upgraded with the latest railroad crossing equipment and safety features. These upgrades include
quad gates, pedestrian gates, advanced detection and warning systems, and upgraded warning
lights and bells, all of which would increase safety for both pedestrians and motorists. In
addition, the intersection of 13th Street and Railroad Avenue would be widened to provide
additional lanes along 13th Street and an additional southbound left-turn lane along Railroad
Avenue for motorists turning onto 13th Street.
As part of Metro Call for Projects, projects were evaluated and ranked based on their ability to
provide increased mobility, reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, facilitate connectivity
to nearby transit projects and access to regional trip generators, and ability to eliminate or correct
deficiencies in transportation system, such as existing gaps and bottlenecks. The awarded grants
cover construction of The Project including the sidewalks, Class II bike lanes, and railroad
crossing improvements. Without The Project, these funds would not be eligible for the railroad
crossing upgrades at 13th Street as a stand-alone project, which would cost approximately eight
million dollars. It is important to note that no grant funds are currently available for upgrading
railroad crossings as stand-alone projects, and no City funds are available to cover these costs.
Compatibility with the Placerita Special Standards District
Concerns were raised that The Project would conflict with the Placerita Canyon Special
lifestyle. The PCSSD was established to maintain the rural and equestrian character of Placerita
Canyon and to ensure that new development and facilities are compatible with the character of
the community. In addition, the PCSSD was established to ensure consistency with both the
General Plan and the Circulation Element, which determine future roadway improvements, such
as the extension of Dockweiler Drive from its current terminus to Railroad Avenue. The General
Plan intended for the PCSSD and the future extension of Dockweiler Drive to coexist.
The special standards identify design criteria for new facilities including minimal street lighting,
trail and pedestrian access, optional street improvements (e.g. curb and gutter), flood control
measures, and appropriate landscaping. The Project would be consistent with these design
standards and would include lighted low bollards along Dockweiler Drive and safety streetlights
at each intersection with downward directional fixtures, which would not create light trespass
onto any adjacent properties. The Project would also be designed with enlarged eight-foot wide
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sidewalks, on-street Class II bike lanes, parkway trees and landscaping, and would create no
impacts to Newhall Creek or hydrology.
Why not Market Street?
The Market Street Alternative was rejected from further consideration due to the physical
public safety and local residential street standards.
Further, the analysis of the Market Street alternative concluded that the alignment would increase
traffic volumes at that location by approximately 200 percent. This alignment would also require
a complete redesign of the intersection at Market Street and Main Street, including street
improvements and a signalized intersection. Resulting effects would disrupt the pedestrian-
friendly character and Main Street feel of Old Town Newhall, which is contrary to the objectives
identified in the Old Town Newhall Specific Plan. Additionally, to comply with the secondary
highway roadway standards, this alternative would require the partial acquisition of 17 parcels,
including the potential relocation of 31 residential units, the existing Newhall Metrolink Station,
Newhall Community Center, Veterans Historical Plaza, and the Santa Clarita Courthouse, which
Ordinance. Below is a comparison table for the three alternatives studied, including the property
impacts.
PROPERTY IMPACT COMPARISON
th
Lyons 13 Street Market Street
Connection Connection Connection
Number of Residential Units
2 2 61
within 100 feet
Number of Buildings Requiring
1 1 10
Demolition
Number of Potential Relocated
0 0 31
Residential Units
Historic Interest Buildings
0 0 Ye Old Courthouse
Requiring Demolition
Recreational Facilities/Parks to Veterans Memorial Plaza
0 0
be Impacted Newhall Community Center
Why not build Via Princessa first?
The EIR for the eastern segment of Via Princessa (Rainbow Glen Drive to Golden Valley Road)
was certified by the City Council in October 2015. The entitlement application for development
of the surrounding properties along this eastern segment of Via Princessa has been submitted to
the City and is moving forward with preliminary design and environmental review. To aid in the
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construction of this roadway, the City applied for, and was awarded, grant funding totaling
$11,577,000 for the construction of the Via Princessa Extension project.
The construction of this roadway segment is not contingent upon the recommended actions set
forth for The Project and will continue moving forward as permissible. It is important to note
that
construction of other roadways. As discussed above, all future roadways on the Circulation
Elimination of any future roadway from the Circulation Element would create additional delay
and cong
Additionally, further work on the western segment of Via Princessa is pending cleanup of the
Whittaker-Bermite site and coordination with the future developments of the site. This public-
private partnership is a crucial component of the construction of this roadway segment. Many
construction activities related to site developments (e.g. grading, curb and gutter) help reduce
costs for the City significantly. If the City were to move forward with this road segment as a
standalone project, the anticipated cost for construction and right-of-way acquisition could
exceed $90 million based on estimates from similar roadway segment projects.
Summary
The approval of the recommended ration as they relate to
the extension of Dockweiler Drive provides various benefits to both the City and residents of the
Newhall community. These benefits include:
Improved vehicle/traffic circulation in the Newhall area
Upgraded rail crossing on 13th Street, including the latest safety measures and additional
vehicle lanes to increase capacity
Additional unrestricted access to the Placerita Canyon community for all residents as well
as The Masters University faculty and students
Alternative transportation methods, including Class II bike lanes and large pedestrian
sidewalks
Building a roadway identified in the Circul General Plan using
grant funds, saving significant General Fund dollars
While the benefits of the road are apparent, it is important to note the potential consequences of
not approving the recommended actions for the extension of Dockweiler Drive and the impacts
to the Newhall community. These potential consequences include:
Severe congestion along Newhall Avenue, resulting in roadway failure given the vehicle
capacity of Newhall Avenue
Increased greenhouse gas emissions related to the added number of vehicles to the
network and queuing associated with acute traffic congestion
Substandard rail crossing, which may never be upgraded given its exponentially high cost
as a stand-alone project
Potentially increased response time for emergency services given the limited access to the
canyon
Loss of $11,374,000 secured for the design and construction of the project
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ALTERNATIVE ACTION
Other action as determined by the City Council.
FISCAL IMPACT
This City Council action has no fiscal impact.
ATTACHMENTS
Resolution - Final Environmental Impact Report
Exhibit A - CEQA Facts and Findings
Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program
Exhibit C - Final EIR
Resolution - Project
2.27.18 agenda report
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RESOLUTION NO. 18-___
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA,
CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
(SCH NO. 2013082016) PREPARED FOR THE LYONS AVENUE/DOCKWEILER DRIVE
EXTENSION PROJECT, ADOPTING THE MITIGATION MONITORING AND
REPORTING PROGRAM, AND ADOPTING A STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING
CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE ENVIRONMENTALLY SUPERIOR ALTERNATIVE
PROJECT (ALIGNMENT TO ARCH STREET/13TH STREET)
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. FINDINGS OF FACT. The City Council does hereby make the following
findings of fact:
a. On June 25, 1991, the City Council adopted the City of Santa Clarita (City) General
Plan by adoption of Resolution No. 91-98. On June 14, 2011, the City Council
adopted an update to the City General Plan by adoption of Resolution No. 11-61.
b. The Circulation Element of the General Plan and the Joint Highway Plan designate
Dockweiler Drive as a secondary highway.
c. The Circulation Element of the General Plan identifies future roadway improvements
needed to implement the buildout of the Joint Highway Plan. Roadway improvements
include constructing the Dockweiler Drive roadway segment, a four-lane secondary
highway, from the existing terminus just east of Leonard Tree Lane, to Railroad
Avenue and Lyons Avenue. The Joint Highway Plan refers to the Circulation
(County) Santa
Clarita Valley Area Plan. The City and the County worked together to develop one
respective General Plan/Area Plan.
d. On January 13, 2009, a 0.64-mile segment of Dockweiler Drive was approved by the
City Council as a part of The lan project. The 0.64-mile
segment of Dockweiler Drive includes extension of a four-lane roadway from the
terminus of Dockweiler to the westerly property line of The This
segment of Dockweiler Drive has not been constructed.
e. The City of Santa Clarita received $5,899,000 in Proposition C grant funding from
the 2013 Metro Call for Projects and $5,475,000 in Proposition C grant funding from
the 2015 Metro Call for Projects equaling $11,374,000 in grant funding for
construction of the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project.
Attachment: Resolution - Final Environmental Impact Report (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT
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f. On October 23, 2012, the City Council awarded a contract to Hall & Foreman and
consultants (now David Evans and Associates Inc.) to complete the Environmental
Impact Report (EIR) for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project.
g. The project consists of a 0.44-mile extension of Dockweiler Drive from the approved
extension of Dockweiler Drive at T, to Railroad Avenue, at
Lyons Avenue, along with a connection to Arch Street/13th Street. The project would
consist of a four-lane roadway with a 12-foot raised landscaped median and a 13-foot
sidewalk/parkway on each side. The typical right-of-way width would be 92 feet. The
project would also include the closure of the at-grade rail crossing at 13th Street with
required street improvements.
h. The environmentally superior alternative project, as identified as Alternative 2
(Proposed Alignment to Arch Street/13th Street without the Lyons At-Grade
Crossing), includes the construction of the proposed roadway alignment and
associated infrastructure for Dockweiler Drive, which would extend Dockweiler
Drive 0.67 miles from TArch Street/13th Street. The route
would continue along Arch Street to 13th Street to link with Railroad Avenue. Unlike
the Proposed Project, Alternative 2 does not include the roadway segment between
the Dockweiler Drive extension and Lyons Avenue, which spans a portion of the
Newhall Creek. Additionally, Alternative 2 proposes to maintain and improve the
13th Street at-grade rail crossing. The Alternative 2 project would require
improvements to Arch Street and 13th Street to accommodate traffic from the
extension of Dockweiler Drive to Arch Street.
i. Surrounding land uses to the project site include vacant, industrial, and residential
uses to the north and zoned Mixed Use Neighborhood (MXN); vacant, residential,
and college uses to the east and zoned MXN and Public/Institutional (PI); the
Newhall Creek to the south and zoned Specific Plan (SP); and Old Town Newhall to
the west and zoned SP. Land use and zoning designations for the project site include
MXN and PI.
j. In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City of
Santa Clarita is the identified lead agency, with the City Council as the
decision-making body for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project.
k. The City prepared an Initial Study for the project, which determined that the project
may have a significant effect on the environment, and an EIR must be prepared. The
Initial Study determined the following areas must be addressed in the EIR: aesthetics,
air quality, biological resources, cultural resources, geology and soils,
hydrology/water quality, land use/planning, noise, and transportation/traffic.
l. On August 5, 2013, a Notice of Preparation (NOP) was circulated to affected
agencies, pursuant to CEQA statutes and the CEQA Guidelines (Title 14, Cal. Code
of Regs. §§ 15000 et seq.). Numerous comments from agencies and the public were
received over the 30-day review period, which ended on September 3, 2013.
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Agencies that received the NOP include, but are not limited to, the State of California
Public Utilities Commission, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Southern
California Regional Rail Authority, the County of Los Angeles, the California
Regional Water Quality Control Board, Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, South
Coast Air Quality Management District, law enforcement agencies, school districts,
waste haulers, water agencies, and transportation agencies serving the Santa Clarita
Valley. Numerous comments
from public agencies, organizations, and members of the public were received in
response to the NOP.
m. On August 21, 2013, a Scoping Meeting was held at City Hall, 23920 Valencia
Boulevard, Santa Clarita, California, to obtain information from the public as to
issues that should be addressed in the EIR. Notice of the Scoping Meeting was mailed
to all property owners within 1,000 feet of the subject site and to all affected
agencies.
n. The City and the EIR consultant developed three project alternatives as part of
preparing the Draft Environmental Impact Report (Draft EIR), including: 1) the No
Project Alternative; 2) Alternative 1 (Proposed Alignment with the 13th Street Rail
Crossing); and 3) Alternative 2 (Proposed Alignment to Arch Street without Lyons
At-Grade Crossing). In addition, three other alternatives were considered, but rejected
as infeasible because of the physical constraints associated with each of these
alternatives. These other alternatives that were considered, but rejected from further
study included: 1) the Market Street Alignment; 2) the Lyons Avenue Overpass; and
3) the Lyons Avenue Underpass.
o. A Draft EIR for the project was prepared and circulated for review and comment by
affected governmental agencies and the public and all issues raised in the NOP and by
comments received on the NOP have been considered, in compliance with CEQA.
The Notice of Availability/Notice of Completion for the Draft EIR was filed, posted,
and advertised on August 16, 2017, and the public review period ran for 60 days,
from August 16, 2017, through October 16, 2017, all in accordance with CEQA. All
written comments received during the review period were accepted for inclusion in
the Final EIR Responses to Comments.
p. Two duly-noticed public outreach meetings were held on September 14, 2017, and
September 28, 2017, to receive public comments on the Draft EIR. The public
outreach meetings were advertised by mailing to all property owners within 1,000
feet of the project site, to commenting agencies on the NOP, and to neighboring
. The meetings were held
at , 24728 Quigley Canyon Road, Building
#35, EHC Room 100, Santa Clarita, California, at 6:00 p.m. The following occurred
at the public outreach meetings:
1. On September 14 and 28, 2017, City staff conducted public outreach meetings
on the project. Staff provided a summary of the project description and the
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Draft EIR and received public testimony regarding the project. Approximately
100 people attended each meeting.
q. Following the public outreach meetings, the City prepared the Final EIR (February
2018; SCH No. 2013082016). The Final EIR contained copies of all written comment
letters; responses to all written comments received on the Draft EIR.
r. February 14, 2018, to
commenting agencies, organizations, and persons.
s. The City Council held a duly noticed public hearing on the Lyons
Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project and Final EIR on February 27, 2018, at
City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, California, at 6:00 p.m. At this
meeting, the City Council received a presentation on the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler
Drive Extension project from staff and the environmental consultant, and received
public testimony regarding the project. At the conclusion of the meeting, the City
Council continued the public hearing to April 10, 2018.
t. The City Council held a duly noticed public hearing on the Lyons
Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project and Final EIR on April 10, 2018, at City
Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, at 6:00 p.m. At this meeting, the City
Council received a presentation on the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension
project from staff and the environmental consultant, and received public testimony
regarding the project. At the conclusion of the hearing, the City Council closed the
public hearing and adopted all of the necessary approval documents (resolutions,
findings of fact, responses to comments, mitigation monitoring, reporting program,
etc.) for certification of the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project Final
EIR and for approval of the environmentally superior alternative alignment as
analyzed in the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project.
u. The Final EIR, incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit C, includes the Draft EIR,
comments on the Draft EIR, responses to public testimony regarding issues raised at
the public meetings and during the public comments period, and modifications to the
Draft EIR text. The Final EIR also includes the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
Program (MMRP), which is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit B. The Draft
EIR identifies various significant unavoidable impacts necessitating the adoption of a
Statement of Overriding Considerations (SOC) in compliance with CEQA.
v. The Final EIR, the MMRP, and a SOC for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive
Extension project have been prepared and circulated in compliance with CEQA.
w. The City Council considered staff and consultant presentations, staff reports,
information presented to the City Council to assist in its understanding of the project,
the Draft EIR, public comments, public testimony, and the Final EIR at the public
hearing for the project.
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x. The location of the documents and other materials, which constitute the record of
proceeding upon which the decision of the City Council is based, is the Lyons
Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project file, and is located within the Public
Works Department, and is in the custody of the Director of Public Works.
SECTION 2. CEQA REQUIREMENTS. The City Council of the City of Santa Clarita
does hereby make the following findings of fact:
a. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA; Public Resources Code § 21000
there are feasible alternatives or feasible mitigation measures available which would
substantially lessen the significant environmenta(Pub.
Resources Code § 21002; emphasis added).
intended to assist public agencies in systematically identifying both the significant
effects of proposed projects and the feasible alternatives or feasible mitigation
Ibid.);
b. c, social, or other
conditions make infeasible such project alternatives or such mitigation measures,
individual projects may be approved in spite of one or more significant effects (Pub.
Resources Code § 21002). CEQA provides that a public agency has an obligation to
balance a variety of public objectives, including economic, environmental, and social
factors and in particular the goal of providing a decent home and satisfying living
environment for every Californian (Pub. Resources Code § 21081; Cal. Code Regs.,
tit. 14, §15021(d)). CEQA requires decision-makers to balance the benefits of a
proposed project against its significant unavoidable adverse environmental impacts,
and, if the benefits of a proposed project outweigh the significant unavoidable
adverse environmental impacts, the unavoidable adverse environmental impacts may
(Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, §15093). The Statement of Overriding Considerations must
set forth the project benefits or reasons why the lead agency is in favor of approving
impacts identified in the Final EIR that cannot be mitigated to a less-than-significant
level;
c.
that agencies adopt findings before approving projects for which EIRs are required.
For each significant environmental effect identified in an EIR for a proposed project,
the approving agency must issue a written finding reaching one or more of three
permissible conclusions:
1.
project which avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect as
identified in the Final EIR;
2. \[s\]uch changes or alterations are within the responsibility and jurisdiction of
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another public agency or can and should be adopted by such other agency; or
3. \[s\]pecific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations,
including provision of employment opportunities for highly trained workers,
make infeasible the mitigation measures or project alternatives identified in the
FCal. Code Regs., tit. 14, §15091.)
manner within a reasonable period of time, taking into account economic,
environmental, social, legal, Pub. Resources Code,
§21061.1; Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, §15364);
d. The concept
alternative promotes the underlying goals and objectives of a project.
under CEQA, then,
on a reasonable balancing of the relevant economic, environmental, social, and
technological factors;
e. CEQA requires that the lead agency exercise its independent judgment in reviewing
the adequacy of an EIR and that the decision of a lead agency in certifying a Final
EIR and approving a project not be predetermined. The City Council has conducted
its own review and analysis, and is exercising its independent judgment when acting
as herein provided;
f. CEQA requires decision-makers to adopt a MMRP for those mitigation measures
identified in the Final EIR that would mitigate or avoid each significant impact
identified in the EIR and to incorporate the MMRP, including all mitigation
measures, as a condition of project approval;
g. CEQA requires that the responses to comments in the Final EIR demonstrate good
faith and a well-reasoned analysis, and not be overly conclusory. In response to
several of the comments received, portions of the Draft EIR have been revised.
Although new material has been added to the Draft EIR through preparation of the
Final EIR, this new material provides clarification to points and information already
included in the Draft EIR and is not considered to be significant new information or a
substantial change to the Draft EIR or to the project that would necessitate
recirculation; and
h. State CEQA Guidelines section 15003(c) and (i) note that state courts have held that
the purpose of an EIR is to inform other governmental agencies and the public
generally of the environmental impacts of a proposed project. CEQA does not require
technical perfection or exhaustive treatment of issues in EIR, but rather adequacy,
completeness, and a good-faith effort at full disclosure.
SECTION 3. CEQA FINDINGS. The City Council does hereby find that:
a. The Final EIR for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project has been
prepared in compliance with CEQA, has been reviewed and considered by the City
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Council, and reflects the independent judgment of the City Council.
b. The Final EIR for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project, which
consists of the Draft EIR (August 2017) and Final EIR (February 2018), identifies
and discloses project-specific impacts and cumulative project impacts attributable to
the project. Environmental impacts identified in the Final EIR, findings, and facts in
support of findings are herein incorporated by reference Statement of Facts and
Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations Regarding Environmental
Effects for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Projecterred to as
Exhibit A, and identified as follows:
1. The Final EIR identifies significant unavoidable adverse impacts of the project, as
set forth in Section 5.3 of Exhibit A. Changes or alterations have been required in,
or incorporated into, the project that will avoid or lessen certain impacts of the
project, but that will not avoid or reduce all of the potential impacts to a less-than-
significant level. These remaining significant impacts are balanced against project
benefits and are found to be overridden by the project benefits, as stated in the
SOC in Section 6, below.
2. The Final EIR also identifies significant, but mitigated impacts, as set forth in
Section 5.2 of Exhibit A. Changes or alterations have been required in, or
incorporated into, the project that will avoid or reduce these potential impacts to a
less-than-significant level.
3. The Final EIR identifies less than significant impacts, as set forth in Section 5.1 of
Exhibit A.
4. As issues that are noted in Section 3 (b)(3), above, have no significant
environmental impacts and require no mitigation, those issues also will have no
contribution to cumulative impacts.
5. The MMRP, incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit B, is required to mitigate
project impacts.
SECTION 4. CONSIDERATION OF A REASONABLE RANGE OF
ALTERNATIVES. Based upon the above recitals and the entire record, including the Lyons
Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Final EIR, oral and written testimony and other evidence
received at the public hearing held on the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project
and the Final EIR and otherwise, upon studies and investigation made by the City Council, and
upon reports and other transmittals from City staff to the City Council, the City Council further
finds the Final EIR analyzes a reasonable range of project alternatives that would feasibly attain
most of the basic objectives of the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project and would
lessen any of the significant impacts of the project, and adequately evaluates the comparative
merits of each alternative.
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a. The objectives of the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project are
specified in the Final EIR and Section 2.2 of Exhibit A. These objectives are used as
the basis for comparing the project alternatives and determining the extent the
objectives would be achieved relative to the proposed project. Only those impacts
found significant and unavoidable are relevant in making the final determination of
whether an alternative is environmentally superior or inferior to the proposed project.
The proposed project would result in significant and unavoidable impacts in two
environmental issue areas:
1. Air Quality - short-term construction impacts (PM, and PM emissions).
102.5
2. Noise - short-term construction impacts.
b. Alternatives Considered But Rejected From Further Study.
Alternatives that were evaluated, but dismissed from further study due to their
infeasibility and/or the potential to result in increased environmental impacts
included: 1) the Lyons Avenue Overpass Extension to Dockweiler Drive; 2) the
Lyons Avenue Underpass Extension to Dockweiler Drive; and 3) and an alternative
alignment that connects Dockweiler Drive to Market Street.
c. No Project Alternative. This alternative is required by the State CEQA Guidelines
and compares the impacts that might occur if the site is left in its present condition
with those that would be generated by the proposed project. Under this alternative,
the extension of Lyons Avenue and Dockweiler Drive from Railroad Avenue to The
property, would not occur and the proposed project would not be
constructed.
The No Project Alternative would avoid the significant and unavoidable impacts
identified in the Final EIR and all other identified significant impacts and; therefore,
is considered environmentally superior.
This alternative would not attain the basic objectives of the project. The No Project
A
thus, not implement a goal of the General Plan Circulation Element. The No Project
Alternative would not improve the roadway level of service. Furthermore, this
alternative would not provide improved local access to residential and commercial
areas within the City. This alternative is infeasible, because it would not attain the
basic project objectives and would not provide any of the project benefits.
d. Alternative 1 Proposed Alignment with the 13th Street Rail Crossing. Similar to
the project, Alternative 1 would include construction of the proposed roadway
alignment and associated infrastructure, which include a new at-grade rail crossing
and a secondary east-west arterial roadway connecting Lyons Avenue to the approved
Dockweiler Drive extension. Alternative 1 differs from the proposed project by
leaving the existing at-grade rail crossing at the intersection of 13th Street and
Railroad Avenue as is, instead of removing the crossing.
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This alternative would result in similar impacts to those of the proposed project and
would not result in reduced environmental impacts.
This alternative would not fully meet the following project objective, which is
defined in Section 2.2 of Exhibit A: Provide a safe and efficient at-grade rail crossing
that meets the standards of the California Public Utilities Commission. Therefore, this
alternative is infeasible because it would not fully satisfy project objectives, and
would not provide all of the project benefits.
e. Alternative 2 Proposed Alignment to Arch Street/13th Street without the Lyons At-
Grade Crossing. Similar to the proposed project, Alternative 2 would include the
construction of the proposed roadway alignment and associated infrastructure for
Dockweiler Drive, which would extend Dockweiler Drive from the approved portion
of Dockweiler Drive at The s University, to Arch Street. The route would
continue along Arch Street to 13th Street to link the Railroad Avenue. Unlike the
proposed project, Alternative 2 does not include the roadway segment or new at-
grade rail crossing between the Dockweiler extension and Lyons Avenue, which
spans a portion of the Newhall Creek. Additionally, Alternative 2 proposes to
maintain and improve the 13th Street at-grade rail crossing. The Alternative 2 Project
would require improvements to Arch Street and 13th Street to accommodate traffic
from the extension of Dockweiler Drive to Arch Street.
This alternative would result in slightly reduced impacts than the project in six
categories and similar impacts in three categories. In general, this alternative is
considered the environmentally superior alternative for purposes of CEQA.
This alternative would meet the project objectives and provide the project benefits.
f. Environmentally Superior Alternative. The determination of an environmentally
superior alternative is based on the consideration of how the alternative fulfills the
project objectives and how the alternative either reduces significant, unavoidable
impacts or substantially reduces the impacts to the surrounding environment. CEQA
Guidelines Section 15126.6 indicates that if the No Project Alternative is the
environmentally superior alternative, then the EIR shall also identify an
environmentally superior alternative among the other alternatives.
In consideration of these factors, Alternative 2, the proposed alignment to Arch
Street/13thStreet without the Lyons At-Grade Crossing would have the least impact
overall, resulting in slightly reduced impacts to aesthetics, biological resources,
cultural resources, geology/soils, hydrology/water quality, and traffic. Short-term
construction impacts to air quality and noise would be similar to those of the project.
This alternative would satisfy the project objectives and would provide the project
benefits.
SECTION 5. FINDINGS FOR CERTIFICATION OF THE FINAL EIR. Based upon
the above recitals and the entire record, including, without limitation, the Lyons
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Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Final EIR, oral and written testimony and other evidence
received, at the public hearing held on the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project
and the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Final EIR, upon studies and investigation
made by the City Council, and upon reports and other transmittals from City staff to the City
Council, the City Council finds the following:
a. That the Final EIR for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project is
adequate, complete, and has been prepared in accordance with the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
b. That the City Council has independently reviewed and considered the Final EIR in
reaching its conclusions.
c. That the environmentally superior alternative, as determined by the Final EIR, is
Alternative 2, Proposed Alignment to Arch Street/13th Street without the Lyons At-
Grade Rail Crossing.
d. That the Final EIR was presented and reviewed prior to taking final action to
recommend certification of the Final EIR and approval of the environmentally
superior alternative alignment for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension
project.
e. That, in accordance with State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15091 and 15093, the
Final EIR includes a description of each potentially significant impact and rationale
for finding that changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the
project which avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect, as
detailed in Exhibit A, incorporated herein by this reference. The analyses included in
the Final EIR to support each conclusion and recommendation therein is hereby
incorporated into these findings.
f. That, in accordance with the Public Resources Code Section 21081, modifications
have occurred to the project to reduce significant effects.
g. That, in accordance with Public Resources Code Section 21081 and CEQA
Guidelines Section 15091, changes and alterations have been required and
incorporated into the project, as identified in the environmentally superior alternative
alignment for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project that avoid or
substantially lessen its significant environmental effects because feasible mitigation
measures, including those in the MMRP, are made conditions of approval for the
project.
h. The Statement of Overriding Considerations identifies and weighs the revised
below significant
against the community benefits from this revised project, and concludes based on
unavoidable significant impacts.
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i. That the Final EIR reflects the decision-pendent judgment and analysis.
j. That a MMRP has been prepared and is adopted to enforce the mitigation measures
required by the Final EIR and project approvals.
k. The documents and other materials which constitute the record of proceedings on
which this decision is based are under the custody of the City Clerk and are located at
the City of Santa Clarita, Public Works Department, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite
300, Santa Clarita, California 91355.
SECTION 6. STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS. Based upon the
above recitals and the entire record, including the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension
Final EIR, oral and written testimony and other evidence, received at the public hearings held on
the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project and the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive
Extension Final EIR and otherwise, upon studies and investigation made by the City Council,
and upon reports and other transmittals from City staff to the City Council, the City Council
finds there is substantial evidence that supports the conclusion that the environmentally superior
alternative alignment project (Alternative 2, Proposed Alignment to Arch Street/13th Street
without the Lyons At-Grade Rail Crossing) will result in community benefits, including specific
ecological, economic, legal, social, technical, and other benefits, that outweigh the significant
effects of the project on the environment that cannot be mitigated to a level less than significant.
a. Significant unavoidable impacts include the following, as further described in
Exhibit A, and incorporated herein by this reference:
1. Air Quality - short-term construction impacts (PM, and PM emissions).
102.5
2. Noise - short-term construction impacts.
b. The benefits of the environmentally superior alternative alignment project
(Alternative 2, Proposed Alignment to Arch Street/13th Street without the Lyons At-
Grade Rail Crossing) outweigh its significant unavoidable impacts that cannot be
mitigated to a level less than significant. These benefits include the following:
1. The project will implement goals of the Circulation Element of the City General
Plan by providing for an improved circulation network, consisting of connectivity
between Sierra Highway and Railroad Avenue.
2. Provide greater connectivity between Old Town Newhall, Placerita Canyon, The
3. Improve roadway level of service and the circulation network.
4. Provide an additional emergency access roadway for Placerita Canyon residents.
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5. Provide a safe and efficient at-grade rail crossing that meets the standards of the
California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
6. Provide sufficient information for an application to the CPUC for applicable rail
crossing improvements.
7. Improve pedestrian and vehicle railroad safety by improving an existing
substandard at-grade rail crossing at 13th Street.
8. Reduce vehicle miles travelled by creating a more direct route for motorists.
SECTION 7. The City Council has reviewed and considered the environmental
information contained in the Final EIR SCH No. 2013082016 and Statement of Facts and
Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations Regarding Environmental Effects for the
Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project (Exhibit A), and hereby determines that it is
adequate and in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). In
compliance with Public Resources Code Section 12081 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15093,
the City Council has considered the project benefits as balanced against its unavoidable adverse
environmental effects, and hereby determines the benefits outweigh the unavoidable adverse
environmental effects; therefore, the City Council determines the unavoidable adverse
environmental effects are considered acceptable. The City Council hereby certifies the Final EIR
and associated documents, and adopts the MMRP (Exhibit B) and Statement of Overriding
Considerations.
SECTION 8. By the adoption of this Resolution, the City Council has not granted any
approval of entitlement on this project.
SECTION 9. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution and certify
this record to be a full, complete, and correct copy of the action taken.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this _________ day of ___________________, ____.
______________________________
MAYOR
ATTEST:
_____________________________
CITY CLERK
DATE: ________________________
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )
I, Mary Cusick, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the foregoing
Resolution was regularly introduced and passed at a regular meeting of the City Council on the
______ day of _______________, ________, by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
____________________________
CITY CLERK
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CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 18-___
EXHIBIT A
STATEMENT OF FACTS AND FINDINGS
AND
STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS
REGARDING THE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
FOR THE
LYONS AVENUE/DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
PROJECT
SCH NO. 2013082016
Lead Agency:
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 302
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
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Statement of Facts and Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations for the
Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project Final Environmental Impact Report
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 STATEMENT OF FACTS AND FINDINGS ................................................................................. 1
1.1 Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 1
2.0 PROJECT SUMMARY ................................................................................................................... 2
2.1 Description of Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project .................................. 2
2.2 Statement of Objectives ...................................................................................................... 3
2.3 Alternative 2 Project Summary ........................................................................................... 4
3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW/PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ........................................................ 5
4.0 INDEPENDENT JUDGMENT AND FINDING ............................................................................ 6
5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND FINDINGS ....................................................................... 7
5.1 Effects Determined To Be Less Than Significant Without
Mitigation in the EIR ......................................................................................................... 7
5.2 Effects Determined To Be Mitigated to Less Than Significant Levels ............................ 10
5.3 Environmental Effects Which Remain Significant and
Unavoidable After Mitigation and Findings ..................................................................... 19
5.4 Alternatives to the Proposed Project ................................................................................. 21
6.0 CERTIFICATION OF THE FINAL EIR ...................................................................................... 23
6.1 Findings ............................................................................................................................ 23
6.2 Conclusions ....................................................................................................................... 24
7.0 STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS ............................................................ 24
7.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 24
7.2 Significant Unavoidable Impacts ...................................................................................... 25
7.3 Overriding Considerations ................................................................................................ 25
8.0 STATEMENT OF LOCATION AND CUSTODIAN OF DOCUMENTS ................................... 27
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Statement of Facts and Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations for the
Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project Final Environmental Impact Report
1.0 STATEMENT OF FACTS AND FINDINGS
1.1 INTRODUCTION
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires that a Lead Agency issue two sets of
findings prior to approving a project that would generate a significant impact on the environment. The
Statement of Facts and Findings is the first set of findings where the Lead Agency identifies the
significant impacts, presents facts supporting the conclusions reached in the analysis, makes one or more
of three potential ngs.
The following statement of facts and findings has been prepared in accordance with the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Public Resources Code Section 21081. CEQA Guidelines
Section 15091 (a) provides that:
No public agency shall approve or carry out a project for which an EIR has been certified
which identifies one or more significant environmental effects of the project unless the
public agency makes one or more written findings for each of those significant effects,
accompanied by a brief explanation of the rationale for each finding.
The three finding categories available for the Statement of Facts and Findings pursuant to CEQA
Guidelines Section 15091.
1. Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which avoid or
substantially lessen the significant environmental effect as identified in the Final EIR.
2. Such changes or alterations are within the responsibility and jurisdiction of another public
agency and not the agency making the finding. Such changes have been adopted by such other
agency or can and should be adopted by such other agency.
3. Specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including provision of
employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the mitigation measures
or project alternatives identified in the Final EIR.
The Statement of Overriding Considerations is the second set of findings. Where a project would cause
unavoidable significant impacts, the Lead Agency may still approve the project where its benefits
outweigh the adverse impacts. Further, as provided in the Statement of Overriding Considerations, the
Lead Agency sets forth specific reasoning by which benefits are balanced against effects, and approves
the project. These findings in the Statement of Overriding Considerations are presented in Section 7.0.
The City of Santa Clarita (City), the CEQA Lead Agency, finds and declares that the Lyons
Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) has been
completed in compliance with CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines. The City Council finds and certifies
that the EIR was reviewed and information contained in the EIR was considered prior to approving the
Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project.
Based upon its review of the EIR, the City Council finds that the EIR is an adequate assessment of the
potentially significant environmental impacts of the project, represents the independent judgment of the
City, and sets forth an adequate range of alternatives to this project.
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Statement of Facts and Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations for the
Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project Final Environmental Impact Report
The Final EIR (February 2018) is composed of the following elements:
Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project Draft Environmental Impact Report (dated
August 2017)
Final EIR (February 2018)
Draft EIR Technical Appendices
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program
A list of persons commenting on the Draft EIR, Comments, and Responses
2.0 PROJECT SUMMARY
2.1 DESCRIPTION OF THE LYONS AVENUE/DOCKWEILER
DRIVE EXTENSION PROJECT
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT
The proposed Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project is a multi-phased capital improvement
circulation and access to the Placerita Canyon and Newhall Communities. The proposed connection and
extension of Lyons Avenu
General Plan as one of the primary east-west arterials through the City of Santa Clarita that would
provide a through connection from Sierra Highway to Railroad Avenue.
The Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project would extend Lyons Avenue from its existing
terminus at Railroad Avenue, eastward to Dockweiler Drive to provide a T-intersection, and would
th
extend northwest to connect with the intersection of Arch Street and 12 Street and southeast towards
Lyons
Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project also includes the closure of an at-grade railroad crossing at
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the intersection of 13 Street and Railroad Avenue and the addition of a new at-grade railroad crossing at
the intersection of Railroad Avenue and the proposed Lyons Avenue intersection. The Lyons
Avenue/Dockweiler Drive extension would extend to the approved alignment of Dockweiler Drive at
Dockweiler Drive extension will result in creating a vital Complete Street link between the communities
to the east of the railroad/ Newhall
and Metrolink station.
A detailed description of the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project including specific street
improvements is presented in Section 2 Project Description of the Draft EIR.
AGREEMENTS, PERMITS, AND APPROVALS
Under CEQA, the public agency that has the principal responsibility for carrying out or approving a
purposes of the Dockweiler Drive Alignment Project, the City of Santa Clarita is identified as both the
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Statement of Facts and Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations for the
Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project Final Environmental Impact Report
The Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project
Improvement Program. -making body and is responsible for
approving projects to be built within City limits. Prior to approving the Proposed Project, the City
Council must certify that (1) this EIR has been reviewed and considered; (2) the EIR has adequately
analyzed the potential impacts of the proposed project; (3) it has been completed in compliance with
independent judgment of the City Council.
The Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project would also require the approval of an Oak Tree
Permit and Hillside Review Permit at such time as development occurs or when funding of roadway
construction becomes available. In order to allow for the proposed development to occur, the Proposed
Project would require an Oak Tree Permit and a Hillside Review Permit. Depending on the approval of
the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project or one of the Project Alternatives evaluated
within the scope of the EIR, the oak tree permit would be required to determine the oak tree impacts at
the time of project development. The Hillside Review Permit would permit the grading necessary to
construct the roadway. These entitlements will be obtained at such time as the proposed alignment is
approved and roadway funding is available to implement the Project. Because it is not known at this time
when the project would be funded or built and permits expire after two years, it was determined to be
more cost effective to wait until such time as construction of the roadway is imminent to secure permits
for the project. Additional ministerial actions, such as grading permits, would be required by the City
prior to actual grading and construction of the proposed roadway extension.
2.2 STATEMENT OF OBJECTIVES
The purpose of the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project is to achieve California Public
Utilities Commission (CPUC) approval of an at-grade rail crossing at the current terminus of Lyons
Avenue and the Southern Pacific Railroad line and extend a through roadway connection from Lyons
are as follows:
Implementation of the goals of the Circulation Element of the Santa Clarita General Plan,
including the crossing at Lyons Avenue and the extension of Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive;
Improve roadway level of service and circulation network;
Provide a safe and efficient at-grade rail crossing that meets the standards of the California
Public Utilities Commission (CPUC);
Provide sufficient information for CPUC application and approval of the proposed crossing;
Improve pedestrian and vehicle railroad safety by eliminating an existing substandard at-grade
th
rail crossing at 13 Street and replacing it with a more advanced and enhanced at-grade rail
crossing at Lyons Avenue;
Reduce vehicle miles traveled by creating a more direct route for motorists, eliminating
circuitous driving patterns.
University and the residents that live along Dockweiler Drive;
Provide an economic stimulus to Old Town Newhall with enhanced connectivity to the Old
Town Newhall area;
Provide an enhanced gateway to Placerita Canyon; and
Provide an additional emergency access roadway for Placerita Canyon residents.
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Statement of Facts and Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations for the
Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project Final Environmental Impact Report
2.3 ALTERNATIVE 2 PROJECT SUMMARY
As mandated by CEQA, the EIR evaluated a reasonable range of project alternatives that would be
th
include: (a) No Project Alternative, (b) Alternative 1 (the proposed alignment with improvements at 13
Street rail crossing), and (c) Alternative 2 (proposed alignment to Arch Street without a grade crossing at
Lyons Avenue). Other alternatives that were evaluated but dismissed from further study due to their
infeasibility and/or the potential to result in increased environmental impacts included an overpass
and/or underpass on Lyons Avenue beneath/over Railroad Avenue and an alternative alignment that
connects Dockweiler Drive to Market Street. Among the alternatives evaluated, Alternative 2 was
identified as the environmentally superior alternative due to its ability to further reduce or lessen project
impacts with respect to aesthetics, biological resources, cultural resources, geology/soils,
hydrology/water quality, and traffic. The significant unavoidable temporary impacts associated with
localized air quality emissions and noise during construction would still occur under this alternative.
The Alternative 2 project would involve the development of the proposed roadway alignment and
associated infrastructure for Dockweiler Drive, which would extend Dockweiler Drive to Arch Street.
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The route would continue along Arch Street to 13 Street to link with Railroad Avenue
. Unlike the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project, the Alternative 2 project does
not include the roadway segment between the Dockweiler extension and Lyons Avenue, which spans a
portion of the Newhall Creek.
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Additionally, Alternative 2 proposes to maintain and improve the 13 Street rail crossing. The existing
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westbound travel lanes on 13 Street approaching Railroad Avenue would be improved with two
westbound lanes and a median, with one dedicated left turn lane, one shared through lane and left turn
lane, and one dedicated right turn lane. The eastbound traffic lanes on 13th Street would be improved to
provide two through travel lanes. The existing median nose on Railroad Avenue would be removed to
reconfigure the four southbound lanes to provide two protected left turn lanes, one dedicated through
lane and one shared right turn lane and through lane. The northbound lanes on Railroad Avenue would
provide two through lanes, one protected left turn lane and one protected right turn lane.
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Similar to the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project, the intersection of Arch Street, 12
Street, Placerita Canyon and Dockweiler Drive would be improved with one of three intersection design
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configurations. The Alternative 2 Project would require improvements to Arch Street and 13 Street to
accommodate traffic from the extension of Dockweiler Drive to Arch Street. Roadway improvements
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would require increasing the width of Arch Street and 13 Street, which would affect several
surrounding properties. The portion of the Project Site to the east of the intersection of Railroad Avenue
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and 13 Street is bounded by one-story commercial buildings to the west, across Railroad Avenue,
industrial and commercial uses to the east, undeveloped land to the north and Newhall Creek to the
south.
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Properties to the north of the Project Site at 13 Street and Railroad Avenue are zoned MX-N with a
General Plan land use designation of Mixed Use Neighborhood. Properties to the south of this portion of
the Project Site are zoned SP with a General Plan land use designation of Specific Plan. Properties to the
east of this portion of the Project Site are zoned UR1, UR3 and PI, with a General Plan land use
designation of Urban Residential One, Urban Residential Three and Public Institutional, respectively.
Properties to the west, across Railroad Avenue are zoned SP with a General Plan land use designation of
Specific Plan.
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Statement of Facts and Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations for the
Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project Final Environmental Impact Report
3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW/
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Preliminary environmental review of the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project was
conducted by the Citys Public Works Department. In the initial Notice of Preparation (NOP), the City
determined that the proposed project may have potentially significant effects on several environmental
impact categories, including: aesthetics, air quality; biological resources; cultural resources; geology and
soils; hydrology and water quality; land use; noise; and transportation and traffic. The NOP was
circulated for a 30-day review period from August 5, 2013 to September 3, 2013. The NOP was
circulated pursuant to the requirements of the State CEQA Guidelines in order to solicit input from
responsible and interested public agencies and the community regarding the content of the EIR. In
addition, to facilitate local participation, the City held a Scoping Meeting on the project and solicited
suggestions from the public and other agencies on the scope and content of this Draft EIR. The meeting
took place at City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, California, on August 21, 2013.
In response to the NOP and Scoping Meeting, comment letters and other input received from
interested agencies, organizations, and others, copies of which are presented in Appendix A to the
Draft EIR, the following topics were evaluated in the EIR:
1. Aesthetics 6. Hydrology and Water Quality
2. Air Quality 7. Land Use and Planning
3. Biological Resources 8. Noise
4. Cultural Resources 9. Transportation and Traffic
5. Geology and Soils
The City prepared the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) in accordance with CEQA and the State
CEQA Guidelines. The EIR is a full-disclosure informational document which informs public agency
decision-makers and the public of the significant environmental effects of the project. Possible ways to
minimize significant effects are identified in the EIR and reasonable alternatives to the project are
evaluated.
typically prepared for a specific construction-level project (See State CEQA Guidelines §15161). Under
the development project . . . \[and\] examine all phases of the project including planning, construction,
The Draft EIR (August 2017) was made available to the public for review and comment for a 60-day
period. The review and comment period began on August 16, 2017 and concluded on October 16, 2017.
Two duly-noticed public outreach meetings were held on September 14, 2017 and September 28, 2017,
North Campus, 24728 Quigley Canyon Road, Building #35, EHC Room 100, Santa Clarita, California
at 6:00 p.m. Responses to all comments included in the Final EIR (February 2018) were distributed by
the City on February 14, 2018. In accordance with CEQA and Public Resources Code Section 21092.5,
the City provided written responses to the public and public agencies that commented on the Draft EIR
at least 10 days prior to the February 27, 2018, City Council hearing. The City Council held a duly-
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noticed public hearing on the Project and Final EIR on February 27, 2018. The hearing was held at City
Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, California.
Copies of the Draft EIR (August 2017) were available for public review at the following locations: (a)
Clarita, California 91355; (b) Santa Clarita Library, Valencia Branch, 23743 Valencia Boulevard, Santa
Clarita, California 91355; (c) Santa Clarita Library, Old Town Newhall Branch, 24500 Main Street,
Santa Clarita, California 91321; and (d) www.santa-clarita.com/DockweilerEIR.
All comment letters, including late comment letters, received in response to the Draft EIR were
reviewed and are included in the Final EIR, along with written responses to each of the comments. In
accordance with State CEQA Guidelines section 15132, the Final EIR for the project consists of: (i) the
Draft EIR; (ii) executive summary (iii) additions and corrections to the Draft EIR; (iv) a list of the
persons, organizations, and public agencies commenting on the Draft EIR and written responses to
significant environmental issues raised during the public review and comment period and related
supporting materials; and, (v) mitigation monitoring program.
4.0 INDEPENDENT JUDGMENT AND FINDING
The City solicited proposals from independent consultants to prepare the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler
Drive Extension Project and EIR. Subsequently, the City selected and retained Hall & Foreman and
consultants (now David Evans and Associates) to prepare the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive
Extension Project EIR. David Evans and Associates prepared the EIR under the supervision and
direction of the City of Santa Clarita staff. All findings set forth herein are based on substantial
evidence in the record as indicated with respect to each specific finding.
FINDING:
The City has exercised
independent judgment in accordance with Public Resources Code Section 21082.1(c)(3) in
retaining its own environmental consultant, and directing the consultant in the preparation of the
EIR. The City has independently reviewed and analyzed the EIR and accompanying studies and
finds that the report reflects the independent judgment of the City.
The City Council has considered all the evidence presented in its consideration of the project and
the EIR, including, but not limited to, the Final EIR and its supporting studies, written and oral
evidence presented at hearings on the project, and written evidence submitted to the City by
individuals, organizations, regulatory agencies, and other entities. On the basis of such evidence the
City Council finds that with respect to each environmental impact identified in the review process
the impact (1) is less than significant and would not require mitigation; or (2) is potentially
significant but would be avoided or reduced to a less than significant level by implementation of
identified mitigation measures; or (3) would be significant and not fully mitigatible but would be, to
the extent feasible, lessened by implementation of identified mitigation measures.
The Final EIR identifies certain significant adverse environmental effects of the project which
cannot be avoided or substantially lessened. Prior to approving this project, the City Council will
adopt a Statement of Overriding Considerations which finds, based on specific reasons and
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substantial evidence in the record (as specified in Section 7.0), that certain identified economic,
social, or other benefits of the project outweigh such unavoidable adverse environmental effects.
5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND FINDINGS
5.1 EFFECTS DETERMINED BE LESS THAN SIGNIFICANT
WITHOUT MITIGATION IN THE EIR
The Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Project Final EIR found that the Alternative 2 Project would have
a less than significant impact on a number of environmental topic areas listed below. A less than
significant environmental impact determination was made for each of the following topic areas listed
below.
FINDING:
The City of Santa Clarita City Council finds that based on substantial evidence in the record, the
following impacts, to the extent they result from the project, will be less than significant.
Agricultural Resources
The California Department of Conservation, Division of Land Protection, lists Prime Farmland, Unique
The Extent of Important Farmland Map Coverage maintained by the Division of Land Protection
indicates that the project site is not included in the Important Farmland category. In addition, locally the
project s
the Alternative 2 project would not result in the conversion of Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or
Farmland of Statewide Importance to a non-agricultural use. Additionally, there are no known
Williamson Act Contract agreements associated with the project site. The project area contains the
following land use and zoning
(Mixed Use Neighborhood). Therefore, the project site would have no impact associated with the
conversion of agricultural uses or forested lands.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
On August 28, 2012, the City of Santa Clarita adopted a Climate Action Plan (CAP), which provides
policies and identifies actions intended to reduce GHG emissions within the City and assist in the fight
against Climate Change. Overall the goal of the CAP is to reduce Santa -wide
GHG emissions below the 2005 baseline emissions by 2020. The CAP includes a set of strategies the
City can use to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced in the community.
Implementation of the measures proposed in the Proposed CAP would result in an annual community-
wide reduction in GHG emissions of approximately 193,000 MTCO2e by 2020 from local measures
and an additional reduction of approximately 148,952 MTCO2e by 2020 from statewide measures. This
would reduce GHG emissions from the Business-as-usual projections for 2020 by 17 percent and would
exceed the GHG reduction targets of 16 percent established by CARB in its revised scoping plan.
Implementation of the strategies identified in the CAP would also exceed
GHG emissions to a level below the 2005 GHG emissions baseline by 4 percent.
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The CAP defines a local threshold of significance for green house gas emissions (GHG) for project
level submittals that are subject to environmental review under CEQA. Goals, objectives and policies
approved under the General Plan are forecast to meet the GHG emission reduction targets mandated by
AB 32. Therefore, development projects that are able to demonstrate consistency with the General Plan
and zoning ordinance are by association consistent with the CAP and are not subject to further
environmental review. Development proposals that are not consistent with the City's General Plan
and/or Unified Development Code (Zone Changes/General Plan Amendments) must demonstrate a 12
percent reduction in the GHG emissions from the Controlled 2020 Business as Usual Scenario, to be
deemed consistent with the CAP. Development proposals that are not consistent with the City's General
Plan and/or Unified Development Code and that can not demonstrate a 12 percent reduction in GHG
emissions from the Controlled Business as Usual Scenario shall be deemed to have a significant impact
on GHG emissions. The Alternative 2 project is consistent with the Circulation Element of the General
Plan and will not require a zone change or General Plan amendment. As such, the p
generate GHGs will be less than significant with respect to consistency with all applicable plans,
policies or regulations adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases.
Hazards and Hazardous Materials
A significant impact may occur if a project involves the use or disposal of hazardous materials as part
of its routine operations which may have the potential to generate toxic or otherwise hazardous
emissions that could adversely affect sensitive receptors. Since the Alternative 2 project would not
require the transport, use, and/or disposal of potentially hazardous materials, the potential for an impact
to occur is considered low. In addition, California Government Code Section 65962.5 requires various
state agencies to compile lists of hazardous waste disposal facilities, unauthorized releases from
underground storage tanks, contaminated drinking water wells and solid waste facilities from which
there is known migration of hazardous waste and submit such information to the Secretary for
Environmental Protection on at least an annual basis. No properties within or immediately adjacent to
the project site appear
Hydrology/Water Quality
Through compliance with NPDES requirements and City grading regulations, the p
impacts related to water quality would not violate any water quality standards or waste discharge
requirements or otherwise substantially degrade water quality. Construction-related impacts to
hydrology and water quality would therefore be less than significant. In accordance with NPDES
requirements, the Project Applicant would be required to have a project-specific SUSMP in place
during the operational life of the project to address the management of runoff from the proposed
plan would reduce water quality impacts to less than significant.
Land Use
Implementation of the Alternative 2 project would not disrupt or physically divide an established
community. Additionally, the project will provide increased pedestrian and vehicular access in the area.
The Alternative 2 project would not conflict with any applicable land use plans, policies, or regulations,
including: the Regional Transportation Plan / Sustainable Communities Strategy, City of Santa Clarita
Municipal Code, City of Santa Clarita General Plan (including the Circulation Element), the Placerita
Canyon Special Standards District and North Newhall Area, Old Town Newhall Specific Plan, and the
Compass Blueprint Concept Plan.
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Mineral Resources
There are no known economic mineral resources located beneath the project site. The project site is not
within a known source area for aggregate or other mineral resources. Additionally, the project site is not
located in an area of potential petroleum resources. Therefore, development of the Alternative 2 project
would not result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the
region and the residents of the state. In addition, development of the Alternative 2 project would not
result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site. The Alternative 2
project would not result in any potentially significant impacts to mineral resources.
Population and Housing
The Alternative 2 project involves the buildout of a proposed roadway alignment that was identified
rculation Element of the General Plan. No residential, commercial, or industrial
land uses are proposed. Therefore, the Alternative 2 project would not have the potential to induce
substantial population growth in the area. As such, the project would not significantly impact the
existing housing stock. Additionally, the project would not displace any existing housing units,
necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere. Therefore, no impact would occur.
Public Services (Fire and Police Protection, Schools, Parks, Libraries, and other Public Facilities)
Fire and Police Protection
A significant impact may occur if the County of Los Angeles Fire Department (LACoFD) and Los
erve the areas affected by the
p
project would not directly increase the demands for fire and police protection as the project does not
include any new housing units or commercial uses. Emergency access to the Placerita Canyon
community would be facilitated through the p
adopted Circulation Element. The p current access
thth
route into the Placerita Canyon community via 13 Street. The potential upgrade or closure of the 13
Street at-grade crossing is a proposed safety feature aimed at reducing potential conflicts between
pedestrians, vehicles and trains. The Alternative 2 p would
be less than significant.
Schools
There are no residential properties on the project site and none are planned as part of the development
of the Alternative 2 project. Therefore, development of the Alternative 2 project would not result in a
direct increase in the resident population or in any associated school-aged children. Therefore, with
respect to local schools, no impact would occur.
Parks
There are no residential properties on the project site and none are planned as part of the development
of the Alternative 2 project. Therefore, development of the Alternative 2 project would not result in a
direct increase in the resident population that would use park facilities. Therefore, no impacts on local
parks would occur.
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Libraries
As the Alternative 2 project does not include residential or commercial uses, no new residents or
employees would utilize existing library services in the project area. Therefore, impacts on local
libraries as a result of the development of the Alternative 2 project would not occur.
Other Public Facilities
Project operations would utilize and, to some extent, affect the maintenance of public roads. However,
wear and tear on City streets resulting from project-related traffic is not expected to be excessive or
beyond normal requirements. Furthermore, the City would be required to implement roadway
improvements (including any required street repairs due to any relocation of public utilities, project
construction damage, and traffic mitigation measures), as monitored and enforced by the City.
Therefore, impacts to public facilities as a result of the development of the Alternative 2 project would
be less than significant.
Recreation
The Alternative 2 project does not include the development of new residential or commercial uses. As
such, the Alternative 2 project will not directly impact existing recreation facilities such that substantial
physical deterioration of the facilities would occur or be accelerated in the existing neighborhood,
regional parks or other recreational facilities.
5.2 EFFECTS DETERMINED TO BE MITIGATED TO LESS THAN
SIGNIFICANT LEVELS
The City of Santa Clarita City Council having reviewed and considered the information contained in the
Final EIR, the Technical Appendices and the administrative record, finds, pursuant to California Public
Resources Code 21081 (a)(1) and CEQA Guidelines 15091 (a)(1) that changes or alterations have been
required in, or incorporated into, the Alternative 2 project, which would avoid or substantially lessen to
below a level of significance potentially significant environmental effects identified in the Final EIR.
The potentially significant adverse environmental impacts that can be mitigated are listed below. The
City of Santa Clarita City Council finds that these potentially significant adverse impacts can be
mitigated to a level that is considered less than significant after implementation of mitigation measures
identified in the Final EIR.
AESTHETICS
The Alternative 2 project would result in temporary adverse impacts to the aesthetic character of the
Project Site and its surroundings during the construction period. Such impacts would be reduced to less
than significant levels with the implementation of mitigation. Upon completion of the Alternative 2
project, the aesthetic character of the project site and its immediate surroundings would be permanently
th
altered. Views of the intersection of Railroad Avenue and 13 Street will be slightly altered to allow for
roadway and SCRRA/UP railroad crossing improvements east of Railroad Avenue. Additionally, views
of the hillside on the southeast portion of the project site will be altered by grading for the proposed
roadway alignment. With implementation of mitigation, the roadway extension would be developed in
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Mitigation Measures
MM 4.1-1 Construction equipment, debris, and stockpiled equipment shall be visually screened to
effectively block the line-of-sight from the ground level of neighboring residential
properties. Such barricades or enclosures shall be maintained in appearance throughout
the construction period. Graffiti shall be removed immediately upon discovery.
MM 4.1-2 The roadway median and contoured slopes along the roadway alignment shall be
attractively landscaped and maintained in accordance with landscape plans to the
satisfaction of the City Planning Department.
Findings
The City finds that the above mitigation measures are feasible, are adopted, and will reduce the
potential impacts to aesthetics to less-than-significant levels. Accordingly, the City finds that, pursuant
to Public Resources Code section 21081, subdivision (a)(1), and State CEQA Guidelines section 15091,
subdivision (a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project that
mitigate or avoid potentially significant aesthetic-related impacts of the project identified in the Final
EIR.
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
The Alternative 2 project would result is adverse impacts to biological resources within the project
vicinity during construction and operation. project-related activities associated with site preparation and
construction could result in the direct loss of individuals of one special-status wildlife species (the
silvery legless lizard) and of active nests or the abandonment of active nests by adult birds should
grading occur during nesting season. Implementation of mitigation measures would reduce impacts to
the silvery legless lizard and nesting birds to a less than significant level. Construction-related activities,
particularly site clearing, grading, and the implementation of the road surface, could have adverse
effects on plant and wildlife habitat, and together, would be considered a significant impact.
Implementation of mitigation would reduce these construction-related impacts to a less than significant
level. Development of the project is not expected to substantially increase the distribution of non-native
plants and wildlife. With compliance to mitigation, project impacts would be less than significant. The
only special-status plants observed during the field investigation were two coast live oaks. Replacement
oak trees would be planted in the number necessary to comply with the requirements stipulated in the
Oak Tree Permit issued by the City. With approval of the required oak tree permits, and implementation
of mitigation, impacts upon the loss or pruning of any oak tree would be reduced to less than significant
levels. The project would increase light and glare effects near to the Newhall Creek corridor. With the
incorporation of mitigation measures, impacts upon biological resources, including vegetation and
wildlife resources would be less than significant.
Mitigation Measures
MM 4.3-1 The applicant shall retain a qualified biologist with a CDFG Scientific Collection
Permit and Memorandum of Understanding to conduct preconstruction surveys for the
silvery legless lizard within the Project Site and area. Should this species be located on
the Project Site during preconstruction surveys all individuals shall be relocated, with
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the concurrence of the City and CDFW, to an approved site with suitable habitat.
Surveys and relocation of silvery legless lizard may occur prior to construction;
however, focused surveys must occur within 30 days prior to construction. Survey and
relocation methods shall be approved by CDFW prior to commencement of grading.
MM 4.3-2 Active nests of native bird species are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16
U.S.C. 704) and the California Fish and Game Code (Section 3503). If activities
associated with construction or grading are planned during the bird nesting/breeding
season, generally January through March for early nesting birds (e.g., Coopers hawks
or hummingbirds) and from mid-March through September for most bird species, the
applicant shall have a qualified biologist conduct surveys for active nests. The project
management shall endeavor to avoid the breeding season.
In the event it is not feasible to avoid the nesting season, a qualified biologist shall
perform weekly nesting bird surveys beginning 30 days prior to initiation of ground-
disturbing activities, with the last survey conducted no more than three days prior to
the start of clearance/construction work. If ground-disturbing activities are delayed,
additional pre-construction surveys shall be conducted so that no more than three days
have elapsed between the survey and ground-disturbing activities.
Surveys shall include examination of natural habitat for nesting birds. Several bird
species such as killdeer and night hawks are known to nest on bare ground. Protected
bird nests that are found within the construction zone shall be protected by a buffer
deemed suitable by a qualified biologist, and verified by CDFW. Typically, a 300-foot
buffer is required for most species and a 500-foot buffer for raptor species. Buffer
areas shall be delineated with orange construction fencing or other exclusionary
material that would inhibit access within the buffer zone. Installation of the
exclusionary material delineating the buffer zone shall be verified by a qualified
biologist prior to initiation of construction activities. The buffer zone shall remain
intact and maintained while the nest is active (i.e., occupied or being constructed by
the adults bird(s)) and until young birds have fledged and no continued use of the nest
is observed, as determined by a qualified biologist.
MM 4.3-4 The following guidelines shall be implemented to minimize impacts on remaining
biological resources on the site as a result of construction and grading activities and to
ensure that potential impacts on these resources will remain less than significant.
A City-approved biologist shall be retained by the applicant as a construction monitor
to ensure that incidental construction impacts on retained biological resources are
avoided or minimized. Responsibilities of the construction monitor shall include the
following:
Attend all pre-grading meetings to ensure that the timing and location of
construction activities do not conflict with mitigation requirements.
Conduct meetings with the contractor and other key construction personnel,
describing the importance of restricting work to within the project boundaries and
outside of the preserved areas. The monitor shall also work with the contractor to
determine the most appropriate staging/storage areas for equipment and materials.
Guide the contractor in marking/flagging the construction area limits, in accordance
with the final approved grading plan.
Periodically and routinely visit the site during construction to coordinate and
monitor compliance with the above provisions.
The construction contractor shall install temporary erosion control measures to reduce
impacts to and protect on site drainages from excess sedimentation, siltation, and
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erosion. These measures shall consist of minimization of existing vegetation removal;
the use of temporary soil covers, such as hydro-seeding with native species,
mulch/binder and erosion control blankets to protect exposed soil from wind and rain
erosion; and/or the installation of silt fencing, berms, and dikes to protect storm drain
inlets and drainages.
No changing of oil or other fluids, or discarding of any trash or other construction
waste materials shall occur on the Project Site. Vehicles carrying supplies, such as
concrete, shall not be allowed to empty, clean out, or otherwise place materials into
natural areas on or immediately adjacent to the site.
Any equipment or vehicles driven and/or operated within or adjacent to drainages shall
be checked and maintained daily, to prevent leaks of materials that if introduced to
water could be deleterious to aquatic life. No equipment maintenance shall be
conducted within the drainage channels or within 50 feet of channels. (Fuel-powered
vehicles and equipment shall not be left idling or operated beyond periods need to
accomplish approved tasks.)
Construction personnel shall be prohibited from entry into areas outside the designated
construction area, except for necessary construction related activities, such as
surveying. All such construction activities in or adjacent to remaining open space areas
shall be coordinated with the project biologist.
Standard dust control measures of the South Coast Air Quality Management District
shall be implemented to reduce impacts on nearby plants and wildlife. This includes a
variety of options to reduce dust including replacing ground cover in disturbed areas as
quickly as possible, watering active sites regularly, and suspending all excavating and
grading operations during periods of high winds.
Upon completion of construction, the contractor shall be held responsible to restore
any haul roads, access roads, or staging areas that are outside of approved grading
limits. This restoration shall be done in consultation with the project biologist.
MM 4.3-5 Any landscaping plan(s) associated with the project shall be reviewed by a qualified
biologist or resource specialist, who shall recommend appropriate provisions to
prevent invasive plant species from colonizing in natural areas. These provisions may
include the following: (a) review and screening of proposed plant palette and planting
plans to identify and avoid the use of invasive species; (b) weed removal during the
initial planting of landscaped areas; and (c) the monitoring for and removal of weeds
and other invasive plant species as part of ongoing landscape maintenance activities.
MM 4.3-6 All street lighting shall be downcast luminaries or directional lighting with light
patterns directed away from natural areas.
MM 4.3-7 Prior to issuance of a grading permit, an Oak tree report shall be prepared and
approved. All oaks that will not be removed that are regulated under the City of Santa
feet of land clearing (including brush clearing) or areas to be graded shall be enclosed
in a temporary fenced zone for the duration of the clearing or grading activities.
Fencing shall extend to the root protection zone (i.e., the area at least 15 feet from the
trunk or 5 feet beyond the drip line, whichever distance is greater). No parking or
storage of equipment, solvents, or chemicals that could adversely affect the trees shall
be allowed within 25 feet of the trunk at any time. Removal of the fence shall occur
only after the project arborist or qualified biologist confirms the health of preserved
trees.
Findings
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The City finds that the above mitigation measures are feasible, are adopted, and will reduce the potential
impacts to biological resources to less-than-significant levels. Accordingly, the City finds that, pursuant
to Public Resources Code section 21081, subdivision (a)(1), and State CEQA Guidelines section 15091,
subdivision (a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project that
mitigate or avoid potentially significant biological resources-related impacts of the project identified in
the Final EIR.
CULTURAL RESOURCES
No archaeological sites have been identified within a ½-mile radius of the project site. As such, the
Alternative 2 project would not have a direct impact upon known archaeological resources, including
Native American tribal resources. However, a lack of surface evidence of archeological resources does
not preclude their subsurface existence. As such, provisions for the identification and evaluation of
accidentally discovered archeological resources would be implemented in accordance with mitigation.
While it is possible that fossilized materials may be discovered during site preparation and construction,
specifically grading and excavation activities, precautionary measures would reduce any potential
adverse impacts to paleontological resources. With mitigation, impacts to archeological, paleontological
and tribal cultural resources would be reduced to less than significant levels.
Mitigation Measures
MM 4.4-1 In the event any archaeological materials are encountered during the course of Project
development, all construction activity shall halt in the area of the find and the services of
a qualified archaeologist shall be secured to assess the discovered material(s) and prepare
a survey, study or report evaluating the significance of the materials encountered. The
encountered, and recommendations if necessary, for the preservation, conservation, or
relocation of the resource. Project development activities may resume once copies of the
archaeological survey, study or report are submitted to the satisfaction of the Planning
Director and copies distributed to the SCCIC Department of Anthropology.
MM 4.4-2 In the event any suspected paleontological materials are encountered during the course of
Project development, all construction activity shall halt in the area of the find and the
services of a qualified paleontologist shall be secured to assess the discovered material(s)
and prepare a survey, study or report evaluating the significance of the materials
of the materials encountered, and recommendations if necessary, for the preservation,
conservation, or relocation of the resource. Project development activities may resume
once copies of the paleontological survey, study or report are submitted to the satisfaction
of the Planning Director and copies distributed to the Los Angeles County Natural
History Museum.
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Findings
The City finds that the above mitigation measures are feasible, are adopted, and will reduce the potential
impacts to cultural resources to less-than-significant levels. Accordingly, the City finds that, pursuant to
Public Resources Code section 21081, subdivision (a)(1), and State CEQA Guidelines section 15091,
subdivision (a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the Alternative 2
project that mitigate or avoid potentially significant cultural resources-related impacts of the project
identified in the Final EIR.
GEOLOGY AND SOILS
All slopes should be evaluated by the project Geotechnical engineer at the planning and design stages.
The hillside area of the project site is designated on the State of California Seismic Hazard Zone Map
to have earthquake-induced slope instability. Remedial measures will be required where ascending or
descending cut slopes are not stable as determined by geologic or geotechnical stability analyses. The
potential for earthquake-induced slope failures is considered low provided that future geologic and
geotechnical evaluations and recommendations for slope stability is incorporated into design and
construction. Additionally, specific recommendations for design and construction should be provided
to address soil stability, including: hydro-compression, expansive soils, rippability, the handling of
oversized material, soil corrosivity, shirking and bulking of materials, and the handling of the need for
retaining wall.
Mitigation Measures
MM 4.5-1 The Proposed Project shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the City and
State Building Codes and shall adhere to all modern earthquake standards, including the
recommendations
MM 4.5-2 Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, the Applicant shall provide grading plans to
ety Division for review and approval. Grading plans shall
with City requirements for stability under static and pseudo static loading conditions to
mitigate risks associated with earthquake induced landslides.
Findings
The City finds that the above mitigation measures are feasible, are adopted, and will reduce the potential
impacts to geology and soils to less-than-significant levels. Accordingly, the City finds that, pursuant to
Public Resources Code section 21081, subdivision (a)(1), and State CEQA Guidelines section 15091,
subdivision (a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project that
mitigate or avoid potentially significant geological or soil-related impacts of the project identified in the
Final EIR.
TRANSPORTATION/CIRCULATION
The Traffic Report analyzed sixteen intersections for existing year conditions (2014), opening year
conditions (2019), and future year conditions (2035). Potential project traffic impacts were found for
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opening year conditions and future year conditions. With the incorporation of the mitigation measures,
potential traffic impacts associated with the Alternative 2 project would be reduced to a less than
significant level.
Mitigation Measures
MM 6.4-1 Dockweiler Drive extension: Construct to full Secondary Highway Pavement width,
from Aden Avenue to west of Valle Del Oro, providing two lanes eastbound (uphill) and
one lane westbound (downhill), as necessary. May be striped for parking lane on both
sides of roadway in interim condition. Class II Bike lanes and Pedestrian Sidewalks to
be provided.
MM 6.4-2 Arch Street (north leg) / Dockweiler Drive (south leg) / 12th Street (east and west legs) /
Placerita Canyon Road (southeast leg): Convert intersection to a 5-leg all way stop
controlled intersection including Dockweiler Drive as the 5th leg. Arch Street will
include a shared left-through-right lane accommodating left turning movements to the
west leg (12th Street) and Placerita Canyon Road. Dockweiler Drive will include a
shared left-through right lane accommodating right turning movements to Placerita
Canyon Road and the west leg (12th Street). The east leg (12th Street) will include a
shared left-through-right lane accommodating left turning movements to Placerita
Canyon Road and Dockweiler Drive. The west leg (12th Street) will include a shared
left-through-right lane accommodating right turning movements to Dockweiler Drive
and Placerita Canyon Road. Placerita Canyon Road will include a shared left-right lane
accommodating left turning movements to Dockweiler Drive and west leg (12th Street)
and right turning movements to the east leg (12th Street) and Arch Street.
MM 6.4-3 Sierra Highway (North-South) and SR-14 Freeway Southbound Ramps (East-West):
The intersection modifications include installing a traffic signal and widening the
southbound direct to provide an additional left turn lane. The northbound direction will
include a through lane, and a shared through-right turn lane. The southbound direction
will include two left turn lanes, and two through lanes. The eastbound direction will
include a left turn lane and a right turn lane.
MM 6.4-4 Sierra Highway (North-South) and Placerita Canyon Road (East-West): The intersection
modifications include lane modifications to provide an exclusive right turn westbound
lane and right turn northbound lane. The northbound direction will include a left turn
lane, two through lanes, and a right turn lane. The south and eastbound directions will
include a left turn lane, a through lane, and a shared through-right turn lane. The
westbound direction will include a left turn lane, a through lane, and a right turn lane.
MM 6.4-5 SR-14 Freeway Northbound Ramps (North-South) and Placerita Canyon Road (East-
West): The intersection modifications include installing a traffic signal. The northbound
direction will include a left turn lane and a right turn lane. The east and westbound
directions will include two through lanes.
MM 6.4-6 SR-14 Freeway Southbound Ramps (North-South) and Newhall Avenue (East-West):
The intersection modifications include converting the east and southbound right turn
lanes to free right turns and signalizing the intersection. The eastbound direction will
include two through lanes and a free right turn lane. The southbound direction will
include a shared through-left turn lane and a free right turn lane. The westbound
direction will include a left turn lane and two through lanes.
MM 6.4-7 Newhall Avenue (North-South) and Lyons Avenue (East-West): The intersection
modifications include converting the eastbound through-right lane to a right turn lane.
Attachment: Exhibit A - CEQA Facts and Findings (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A
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The northbound direction will include two left turn lanes and a shared through-right
lane. The southbound direction will include a left turn lane and a shared through-right
lane. The east and westbound directions will include a left turn lane, two through lanes,
and a right turn lane.
MM 6.4-8 Railroad Avenue (North-South) and 13th Street (East-West): The intersection
modifications include widening the south and westbound direction to include a left turn
lane. The northbound direction will include a left turn lane, two through lanes and a
right turn lane. The southbound direction will include two left turn lanes, through lane,
and a shared through-right turn lane. The eastbound direction will include a shared left-
through-right turn lane. The westbound direction will include a left turn lane, a through,
and a right turn lane.
MM 6.4-9 Sierra Highway (North-South) and Placerita Canyon Road (East-West): The Intersection
modifications include widening to accommodate lane modifications to all approaches.
Widen the northbound direction to accommodate an additional through lane. Widen the
east and southbound directions to accommodate two additional through lanes and
restripe the shared through-right lane to a right turn only lane. Widen the westbound
direction to accommodate two additional through lanes. The north, east, south, and
westbound direction will include a left turn lane, three through lanes, and a right turn
lane.
MM 6.4-10 Sierra Highway (North-South) and Newhall Avenue (East-West): Intersection
modifications include converting the northbound through-right turn lane to a through
lane and widening to accommodate a free right turn. The northbound direction will
include two left turn lanes, two through lanes, and a free right turn. The southbound
direction will include a left turn lane, two through lanes, and a shared through-right turn
lane. The east and westbound directions will include two left turn lane, three through
lanes, and a right turn lane.
MM 6.4-11 Main Street (north leg) / Newhall Avenue (south leg) / Newhall Avenue (west leg): The
intersection modifications include widening the northbound direction to accommodate a
left turn lane and the eastbound direction to accommodate a right turn lane. Newhall
Avenue (south leg) will include a left turn lane and a shared left-through lane. Main
Street will include a shared right-through lane. Newhall Avenue (east leg) will include a
shared left right lane and a right turn lane.
MM 6.4-12 Construction related heavy duty truck trips should be scheduled during off-peak
commuting periods, when possible.
MM 6.4-13 A Construction Management Plan shall be submitted to the City of Santa Clarita
Department of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division) and LASD Santa
Clarita Valley Station for review and approval prior to the commencement of any
construction. The plans shall show the location of any roadway or sidewalk closures,
traffic detours, haul routes, hours of operation, protective devices, warning signs and
access to abutting properties, and if applicable, the location of off-site staging areas for
haul trucks and construction vehicles, and provide one or more emergency lane through
the Project site at all times. All construction related traffic shall be restricted to off-peak
shall receive advance notice prior to any changes in temporary lane closures or
realignments.
Findings
Attachment: Exhibit A - CEQA Facts and Findings (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A
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The City finds that the above mitigation measures are feasible, are adopted, and will reduce the potential
impacts to transportation/circulation to less-than-significant levels. Accordingly, the City finds that,
pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21081, subdivision (a)(1), and State CEQA Guidelines
section 15091, subdivision (a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the
project that mitigate or avoid potentially significant transportation/circulation related impacts of the
project identified in the Final EIR.
UTILITIES
The Alternative 2 project includes the development of a roadway alignment. The project does not
include the development of residential, commercial or industrial uses. As such the Alternative 2 project
would not require any connections to a sanitary sewer. Thus, no impact to wastewater treatment
facilities would be created. The drainage system of the project will be developed so that post
development peak runoff discharge rates are equal to or less than pre development peak runoff rates, as
required by the City of Santa Clarita and the Countywide MS4 Permit. As such, the project would not
result in the construction of new stormwater drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities. The
project would not create a demand for potable water or for solid waste resources. Therefore impacts
associated with the project, with respect to utilities, would be less than significant.
The project would include mitigation to ensure that locations of buried utility-owned lines are marked
prior to commencement of excavation work for the project and to ensure that the abandonment and/or
relocation and/or modification of any portion of an existing natural gas lines would be coordinated with
SoCalGas.
Mitigation Measures
MM 5.1-1 The project Applicant shall call Underground Service Alert at 811 at least two business
days prior to performing any excavation work for the proposed project. Underground
Service Alert will coordinate with SoCalGas and other Utility owners in the area to
mark the locations of buried utility-owned lines.
MM 5.1-2 Should it be determined that the proposed project may require SoCalGas to abandon
and/or relocate or otherwise modify any portion of its existing natural gas lines,
SoCalGas respectfully requests that the County and/or the project Applicant coordinate
with us by calling (800) 427-2000 for Non-residential to follow-up on this matter.
Findings
The City finds that the above mitigation measures are feasible, are adopted, and will reduce the
potential impacts to utilities to less-than-significant levels. Accordingly, the City finds that, pursuant to
Public Resources Code section 21081, subdivision (a)(1), and State CEQA Guidelines section 15091,
subdivision (a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project that
mitigate or avoid potentially significant utilities related impacts of the project identified in the Final
EIR.
Attachment: Exhibit A - CEQA Facts and Findings (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A
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5.3 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS WHICH REMAIN SIGNIFICANT
AND UNAVOIDABLE AFTER MITIGATION AND FINDINGS
AIR QUALITY
The Alternative 2 project would result in significant localized air emissions in close proximity to
residential land uses within 100 meters of the project site on a temporary and intermittent basis during
construction. Localized NOx and CO emissions would be below the significance thresholds at all
sensitive receptor locations. However, localized thresholds would be exceeded for PM and PM
102.5
emissions at two locations: (1) the single-family residential land uses located immediately north of the
project site (within a proximity of 100 meters) and (2) the residential land uses within 100 meters south
of the Project Site in the vicinity of Market Street and Race Street. Localized emissions would be below
the stated thresholds for any land use located further than 100 meters from the Project Site. Therefore,
notwithstanding implementation of mitigation measures, localized air quality impacts resulting from
construction activities would be considered significant and unavoidable.
Mitigation Measures
MM 4.2-1 Prior to grading permit issuance, the Project contractor shall develop a Construction
Emission Management Plan to minimize construction-related emissions. The Construction
Emission Management Plan shall require the use of Best Available Control Measures, as
specified in
Plan shall include the following additional elements:
a. Use of water trucks or sprinkler systems in sufficient quantities to prevent airborne
dust from leaving the site. When wind speeds exceed 15 miles per hour the
operators shall increase watering frequency.
b. Active sites shall be watered at least three times daily during dry weather.
c. Suspend grading and excavation activities during windy periods (i.e., surface winds
in excess of 25 miles per hour).
d. Suspend the use of all construction equipment during first-stage smog alerts.
e. Application of non-toxic chemical soil stabilizers or apply water to form and
maintain a crust on inactive construction areas (disturbed lands within construction
projects that are unused for at least four consecutive days).
f. Application of non-toxic binders to exposed areas after cut and fill operations and
hydroseeded areas.
g. Plant vegetative ground cover in disturbed areas as soon as possible and where
feasible.
h. Operate street sweepers that comply with SCAQMD Rules 1186 and 1186.1 on
roads adjacent to the construction site so as to minimize dust emissions. Paved
parking and staging areas shall be swept daily.
i. Scheduling truck deliveries to avoid peak hour traffic conditions, consolidating
truck deliveries, and prohibiting truck idling in excess of 5 minutes.
j. Reduce traffic speeds on all unpaved roads to 15 miles per hour or less.
k. Pave or apply gravel on roads used to access the construction sites when possible.
l. Minimize idling time either by shutting equipment when not in use or reducing the
time of idling to 5 minutes as a maximum.
m. Limit, to the extent feasible, the hours of operation of heavy-duty equipment and/or
Attachment: Exhibit A - CEQA Facts and Findings (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A
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the amount of equipment in use.
MM 4.2-2 All off-road diesel-powered construction equipment greater than 50 hp shall meet the Tier
4 emission standards, where available. In addition, all construction equipment shall be
outfitted with BACT devices certified by CARB. Any emissions control device used by
the contractor shall achieve emissions reductions that are no less than what could be
achieved by a Level 3 diesel emissions control strategy for a similarly sized engine as
documentations, and CARB, SCAQMD, or ICAPCD operating permit shall be provided at
the time of mobilization of each applicable unit of equipment.
MM 4.2-3 An information sign shall be posted at the entrance to each construction site that identifies
the permitted construction hours and provides a telephone number to call and receive
information about the construction project or to report complaints regarding excessive
fugitive dust generation. Any reasonable complaints shall be rectified within 24 hours of
their receipt.
MM 4.2-4 The contractor shall utilize low-VOC content coatings and solvents that are consistent
with applicable SCAQMD and ICAPCD rules and regulations.
Findings
Although the above mitigation measures would reduce the magnitude of impacts, the City finds there
are no feasible mitigation measures that will reduce the identified significant impacts to a level below
significant. Therefore, these impacts must be considered unavoidably significant even after
implementation of all feasible air quality mitigation measures. Pursuant to Public Resources Code
section 21081, subdivision (a)(3), the City has determined that specific economic, legal, social,
technological, or other considerations make infeasible the additional alternatives identified in the EIR
and the identified air quality impacts are thereby acceptable because of specific overriding
considerations.
NOISE
Construction of the Alternative 2 project would require the use of heavy equipment for ground
clearing, site grading, and roadway construction. Several pieces of construction equipment operating
simultaneously would generate a noise level of approximately 94.6 dBA. The estimated construction
noi
for residential uses. The construction noise levels would therefore constitute a significant impact.
Mitigation Measures
MM 4.8-1. Pursuant to Section 11.44.080 of
occur within 300 feet of occupied residences except between the hours of 7:00 AM and
7:00 PM Monday through Friday, and between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM on Saturday. No
construction work shall occur on Sund
Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, Memorial Day, and Labor Day.
MM 4.8-2. The construction schedule (including the various types of activities that would be
occurring throughout the duration of construction phases, anticipated truck routes, and
the potential for noise impacts along local roadways from construction-related vehicles)
shall be prominently posted on-site during construction stages. When construction
activities are anticipated to occur within 200 feet of residences, notice of the
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construction schedule shall be mailed to such residences two weeks prior to
commencement of activity.
MM 4.8-3. The phone number of the job superintendent shall be clearly posted at all construction
entrances to allow for surrounding owners and residents to contact the job
superintendent. If the job superintendent receives a complaint, the superintendent shall
investigate, take appropriate corrective actions, and report the action taken to the
reporting party. Contract specifications shall be included in
document.
MM 4.8-4. All internal combustion engine construction equipment shall be properly muffled or
equipped with other noise attenuating devices capable of achieving a sound attenuation
of at least 3 dB(A) at 50 feet of distance. Such equipment shall also be in good working
condition.
MM 4.8-5. As feasible, construction activities shall use specially quieted equipment, such as electric
air compressors and similar power tools, rather than diesel equipment.
MM 4.8-6. Construction staging areas shall be located away from sensitive land uses, particularly
away from the single-family properties on Aden Street, the single-family residences near
MM 4.8-7. Construction and grading activities shall be scheduled in such a way so as to avoid
operating several pieces of equipment simultaneously, which causes high noise levels.
MM 4.8-8. Construction activities whose specific location on the site may be flexible (e.g.,
operation of compressors and generators, cement mixing, general truck idling) shall be
conducted as far as possible from the nearest noise-sensitive land uses, particularly away
from single-family residences.
MM 4.8-9. Temporary construction noise barriers of sufficient height shall be erected in such a way
so as to disrupt line-of-sight between the active construction noise sources and any
residences within 500 feet of the Project Site.
Findings
Although the above mitigation measures would reduce the magnitude of construction-related impacts,
the City finds there are no feasible mitigation measures that will reduce the identified significant noise
impacts to a level below significant. Therefore, these impacts must be considered unavoidably
significant even after implementation of all feasible noise mitigation measures. Pursuant to Public
Resources Code section 21081, subdivision (a)(3), the City has determined that specific economic, legal,
social, technological, or other considerations make infeasible the additional alternatives identified in the
EIR and the identified noise impacts are thereby acceptable because of specific overriding
considerations.
5.4 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
As set forth in these findings, the implementation of the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension
Project will result in significant impacts that are considered unavoidable. CEQA requires that an EIR
include an analysis of a reasonable range of feasible alternatives to a proposed project capable of
avoiding or substantially lessening any significant adverse environmental impact associated with the
project. The Final EIR addresses the environmental effects of alternatives to the Lyons
Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project. A description of these alternatives, a comparison of their
environmental impacts to the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project
findings are listed below. These alternatives are compared against the project relative to the identified
Attachment: Exhibit A - CEQA Facts and Findings (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A
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project impacts, summarized in the sections above, to the project objectives, as stated in Section 2,
Project Description, of the Final EIR.
In making the following alternatives findings, the City of Santa Clarita certifies that it has
independently reviewed and considered the information on alternatives provided in the Final EIR,
including the information provided in the comments on the Final EIR and the responses thereto.
The No Project Alternative
Description: This alternative is required by the State CEQA Guidelines and compares the impacts that
might occur if the site is left in its present condition with those that would be generated by the Lyons
Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project. Under this alternative, the eastward extension of Lyons
Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project would not occur and the project would not be constructed.
Environmental Effects: This alternative is environmentally superior to the Lyons
Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project since most of the environmental effects of the project
would not occur.
Relation to Project Objectives: This alternative would not attain the basic objectives of the Lyons
Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project, as defined in Section 2.2, above. The No Project
alternative would not close a gap segment in the Citys planned roadway system, thus not
implementing a goal of the City General Plan Circulation Element. Furthermore, this alternative would
not provide improved access to residential and commercial areas within the City.
Feasibility: This alternative is infeasible because it would not attain the basic project objectives,
and would not provide any of the project benefits.
th
Alternative 1 (Proposed Alignment With The 13 Street Rail Crossing)
Description: The Alternative 1 Project would involve the development of the proposed roadway
alignment and associated infrastructure, which would include a new at-grade crossing and a secondary
east-west arterial roadway connecting Lyons Avenue to the proposed Dockweiler Drive extension that
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would connect Dockweiler Drive to a new five-leg intersection at the Arch Street/12 Street/Placerita
Canyon intersection. The Alternative 1 Project differs from the project by maintaining the existing at-
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grade crossing at the intersection of 13 Street and Railroad Avenue instead of removing the crossing,
as proposed by the project.
Environmental Effects: This alternative would result in similar impacts in all categories when compared
against the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project.
Relation to Project Objectives: This alternative would support the project objectives, which are defined
in Section 2.2, above.
Feasibility: This alternative is feasible because it would satisfy project objectives, and would
provide all of the project benefits.
Attachment: Exhibit A - CEQA Facts and Findings (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A
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Alternative 2 (Proposed Alignment With The 13 Street Rail Crossing)
Description: The Alternative 2 Project would involve the development of the proposed roadway
alignment and associated infrastructure for Dockweiler Drive, which would extend Dockweiler Drive to
thth
Arch Street/13 Street. The route would continue along Arch Street to 13 Street to link the Railroad
Avenue. Unlike the Proposed Project, Alternative 2 does not include the roadway segment between the
Dockweiler extension and Lyons Avenue, which spans a portion of the Newhall Creek. Additionally,
th
Alternative 2 proposes to maintain and improve the 13 Street rail crossing.
Environmental Effects: The Alternative 2 Project would result in slightly reduced impacts with respect
to aesthetics, biological resources, hydrology and water quality impacts, and traffic and transportation.
the Alternative 1 Project. For that reason, the Alternative 2 Project is identified as the environmentally
superior alternative.
Relation to Project Objectives: This alternative would support the project objectives, which are defined
in Section 2.2, above.
Feasibility: This alternative is feasible because it would satisfy project objectives, and would
provide all of the project benefits.
Alternatives Considered But Rejected From Further Study
In accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(c), there were three alternative alignments that
were considered by the Lead Agency but rejected as infeasible during the scoping process. The
alternatives considered but rejected included (1) connecting Dockweiler Drive to Railroad Avenue via
Market Street; (2) extending Lyons Avenue to Dockweiler Drive with a bridge over the railroad right-
of-way; and (3) extending Lyons Avenue to Dockweiler Drive with a below grade underpass under the
railroad right-of-way. The physical constraints associated with each of these alternatives that led to
them being rejected without further evaluation.
6.0 CERTIFICATION OF THE FINAL EIR
The City of Santa Clarita City Council hereby declares that no new significant information as defined
by the CEQA Guidelines Section 15088.5 has been received by the City Council after circulation of the
EIR that would require recirculation.
The City of Santa Clarita City Council hereby recommends certification of Final Environmental Impact
Report based on the following findings and conclusions.
6.1 FINDINGS
The Alternative 2 project would have the potential for creating significant adverse impacts. These
significant adverse environmental impacts have been identified in the EIR and will require mitigation as
set forth in the Findings. Significant adverse impacts which cannot be mitigated to a level of
insignificance after mitigation include air quality and noise.
Attachment: Exhibit A - CEQA Facts and Findings (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A
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6.2 CONCLUSIONS
1. Except as to those impacts stated above relating to air quality and noise, all other significant
environmental impacts from the implementation of the Alternative 2 project have been
identified in the EIR and, with implementation of the mitigation measures identified, will be
mitigated to a less than significant level.
2. Alternative 2 would result in slightly reduced impacts than the project in six categories and
similar impacts in three categories. In general, this alternative is considered the environmentally
superior alternative for purposes of CEQA.
3. Environmental, economic, social, and other considerations and benefits derived from the
development of the Alternative 2 project, as further discussed in Section 7.0, override and make
infeasible any alternatives to the Alternative 2 project or further mitigation measures beyond
those incorporated into the Alternative 2 project.
7.0 STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS
7.1 INTRODUCTION
The City of Santa Clarita (City) is the Lead Agency under CEQA for preparation, review, and
certification of the Final EIR for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project (project). As
the Lead Agency, the City is also responsible for determining the potential environmental impacts of
the proposed action and which of those impacts are significant, and which can be mitigated through
imposition of mitigation measures to avoid or minimize those impacts to a level of less than significant.
CEQA then requires the Lead Agency to balance the benefits of a proposed action against its significant
unavoidable adverse environmental impacts in determining whether or not to approve the proposed
project. In making this determination the City is guided by CEQA Guidelines Section 15093, which
provides as follows:
a) CEQA requires the decision-making agency to balance, as applicable, the economic, legal,
social, technological, or other benefits of a proposed project against its unavoidable
environmental risks when determining whether to approve the project. If the specific
economic, legal, social, technological, or other benefits of a proposal (sic) project outweigh
the unavoidable adverse environmental effects, the adverse environmental effects may be
b) When the lead agency approves a project which will result in the occurrence of significant
effects which are identified in the final EIR but are not avoided or substantially lessened,
the agency shall state in writing the specific reasons to support its action based on the final
EIR and/or other information in the record. The statement of overriding considerations shall
be supported by substantial evidence in the record.
c) If an agency makes a statement of overriding considerations, the statement should be
included in the record of the project approval and should be mentioned in the notice of
determination. This statement does not substitute for, and shall be in addition to, findings
required pursuant to Section 15091.
Attachment: Exhibit A - CEQA Facts and Findings (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A
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In addition, Public Resources Code Section 21081(b) requires that where a public agency finds that
specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including considerations for the
provision of employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the mitigation
measures or alternatives identified in an EIR and thereby leave significant unavoidable effects, the
public agency must also find that overriding economic, legal, social, technological, or other benefits of
the project outweigh the significant effects of the project.
Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21081(b) and the CEQA Guidelines Section 15093, the City
has balanced the benefits of the project against the following unavoidable adverse impacts associated
with the project and has adopted all feasible mitigation measures with respect to these impacts. The
City also has examined alternatives to the project, none of which, except for the Alternative 2 project,
meet both the project objectives and is environmentally preferable to the project for the reasons
discussed in the Statement of Facts and Findings (above).
The City of Santa Clarita City Council, having reviewed and considered the information contained in
the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project, the Final EIR, Responses to Comments, and
the public record in its entirety, hereby adopts the following Statement of Overriding Considerations
that have been balanced against the unavoidable adverse impacts in reaching a decision on this project.
7.2 SIGNIFICANT UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS
Although all potential Alternative 2 project impacts have been substantially avoided or mitigated as
described in the preceding findings, there is no complete mitigation for the following Alternative 2
project impacts:
Air Quality: Construction Emissions
Noise: Construction Noise
Details of these significant unavoidable adverse impacts were discussed in the Final EIR and are
summarized or were otherwise provided in the Statement of Facts and Findings (above).
7.3 OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS
To the extent that the significant effects of the Alternative 2 project are not avoided or substantially
lessened to below a level of significance, the City of Santa Clarita City Council, having reviewed and
considered the information contained in the Final EIR and the public record, and having balanced the
benefits of the Alternative 2 project against the unavoidable effects which remain, finds such
unmitigated effects to be acceptable in view of the following overriding economic, social and other
considerations, each of which the City Council finds is individually sufficient to justify issuance of a
Statement of Overriding Considerations:
1. The City Council hereby finds that each of the specific economic, legal, social, technological,
environmental, and other considerations, and the benefits of the Alternative 2 project separately
and independently outweigh these remaining significant, adverse impacts and is an overriding
consideration independently warranting approval of the Alternative 2 project. The remaining
significant adverse impacts identified in Section 7.2, above are acceptable in light of each of
these overriding considerations, and the substantial evidence that supports the enumerated
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benefits of the Alternative 2 project can be found in the Statement of Facts and Findings herein,
the Final EIR, the project itself, and the record of all proceedings in connection with the
approval of the Alternative 2 project. In the event that any court decision or regulatory action
results in a determination that there are additional remaining significant impacts resulting from
Alternative 2 project that cannot be avoided even with the
incorporation of all feasible mitigation measures into the Alternative 2 project, the Statement of
Facts and Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations herein shall be deemed to apply
to such additional remaining significant impacts.
2. The benefits of the Alternative 2 Project, which is the environmentally superior alternative,
outweigh its significant unavoidable impacts that cannot be mitigated to a level less than
significant. These benefits include the following:
The Alternative 2 project will implement goals of the Circulation Element of the City
General Plan, by providing for an improved circulation network, consisting of connectivity
between Sierra Highway and Railroad Avenue.
University, and residences along Dockweiler Drive.
Improve roadway level of service and the circulation network.
Provide an additional emergency access roadway for Placerita Canyon residents.
Provide a safe and efficient at-grade rail crossing that meets the standards of the California
Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
Provide sufficient information for an application to the CPUC for applicable rail crossing
improvements.
Improve pedestrian and vehicle railroad safety by improving an existing substandard at-
grade rail crossing at 13th Street.
Reduce vehicle miles travelled by creating a more direct route for motorists.
3. The Alternative 2 project would include street improvements that would benefit traffic
circulation in the project area. Street improvements would include:
th
Railroad Avenue (North-South) and 13 Street (East-West): The intersection modifications
include widening the south and westbound direction to include a left turn lane. The
northbound direction will include a left turn lane, two through lanes and a right turn lane.
The southbound direction will include two left turn lanes, through lane, and a shared
through-right turn lane. The eastbound direction will include a shared left-through-right
turn lane. The westbound direction will include a left turn lane, a through, and a right turn
lane.
th
Arch Street (north leg) / Dockweiler Drive (south leg) / 12 Street (east and west legs) /
Placerita Canyon Road (southeast leg): Convert intersection to a 5-leg all way stop
th
controlled intersection including Dockweiler Drive as the 5 leg. Arch Street will include a
th
shared left-through-right lane accommodating left turning movements to the west leg (12
Street) and Placerita Canyon Road. Dockweiler Drive will include a shared left-through
right lane accommodating right turning movements to Placerita Canyon Road and the west
thth
leg (12 Street). The east leg (12 Street) will include a shared left-through-right lane
accommodating left turning movements to Placerita Canyon Road and Dockweiler Drive.
th
The west leg (12 Street) will include a shared left-through-right lane accommodating right
turning movements to Dockweiler Drive and Placerita Canyon Road. Placerita Canyon
Attachment: Exhibit A - CEQA Facts and Findings (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A
February 2018 26
Packet Pg. 111
10.b
Statement of Facts and Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations for the
Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension Project Final Environmental Impact Report
Road will include a shared left-right lane accommodating left turning movements to
th
Dockweiler Drive and west leg (12 Street) and right turning movements to the east leg
th
(12 Street) and Arch Street.
New signing, striping and legends such as monument signage to properly identify the
entrance to the Placerita Canyon community as a residential community with no through
access.
4. The Alternative 2 project would include railroad-crossing improvements at the intersection of
th
13 Street and Railroad Avenue that would benefit traffic circulation in the project area.
Railroad improvements would include:
New railroad signal house;
Crossing Panels;
Advance Preemption and railroad signal design;
Pedestrian gates;
Railroad related signing, striping and legends;
New fencing for railroad;
New driveway to access railroad property for maintenance;
New vehicular gates;
New railroad loops.
Therefore, the City of Santa Clarita City Council, having reviewed and considered all of the
information contained in the Final EIR and the public record, adopts the Statement of Overriding
Considerations that has been balanced against the unavoidable adverse impacts in reaching a decision
on this project.
8.0 STATEMENT OF LOCATION AND CUSTODIAN OF
DOCUMENTS
Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21081.6(a)(2) the City of Santa Clarita, as the Lead
Agency, shall specify the location and custodian of the documents of other materials that
constitute the record of proceedings upon which its decision has been based. A copy of the EIR
Building at 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 120, Santa Clarita, California, 91355.
Attachment: Exhibit A - CEQA Facts and Findings (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A
February 2018 27
Packet Pg. 112
10.c
CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 18-___
EXHIBIT B
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023
Packet Pg. 113
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
10.c
-
sign
Packet Pg. 114
permit
ield
off
Action
-
Indicating
Compliance
Field inspection signIssuance of building permit and finspection offIssuance of grading
and
nstruction
Frequency
Monitoring
eriodic field
Periodic field inspections during coOnce, at plan check pinspections during operationOnce, at plan check
Phase
--
Monitoring
onstruction
ConstructionPreconstructionand operationPrec
Agency
Monitoring
Community Development Department (Planning Division) and Public Works Department(Building and Safety Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division) Community Development
Department (Planning Division)
2
ment
Agency
EXHIBIT B
Enforcement
Community DevelopDepartment (Planning Division) and Public Works Department (Building and Safety Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division) South Coast Air Quality
Management District
from
related
-
Available Control
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
sight from the ground level of
i.e., surface winds in excess of 25
-
of
-
Mitigation Measure
Use of water trucks or sprinkler systems in sufficient quantities to prevent airborne dustleaving the site. When wind speeds exceed 15 miles per hour the operators shall increase watering
frequency.Active sites shall be watered at least three times daily during dry weather.Suspend grading and excavation activities during windy periods (miles per hour).
a.c.
b.
Prior to grading permit issuance, the Project contractor shall develop a Construction Emission Management Plan to minimize constructionemissions. The Construction Emission Management
Plan shall require the use of Best Rule 403. The Construction Emission Management Plan shall include the following additional elements:
Construction equipment, debris, and stockpiled equipment shall be visually screened to effectively block the lineneighboring residential properties. Such barricades or enclosures shall
be maintained in appearance throughout the construction period. Graffiti shall be removed immediately upon discovery.The roadway median and contoured slopes along the roadway alignment
shall be attractively landscaped and maintained in accordance with landscape plans to the satisfaction of the City Planning Department.
121
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Aesthetics4.14.1Air Quality4.2
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
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off
-
Field inspection sign
Periodic field inspections during construction
Construction
Community Development Department (Planning Division)
3
EXHIBIT B
South Coast Air Quality Management District
(disturbed lands within
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
duty equipment and/or the
-
toxic chemical soil stabilizers eliveries to avoid peak hour
toxic binders to exposed areas
-
-
powered construction equipment
-
stage smog alerts.
-
y the contractor shall achieve emissions
f equipment in use.
road diesel
-
oon as possible and where feasible.
off
Pave or apply gravel on roads used to access the
Suspend the use of all construction equipment during firstApplication of nonor apply water to form and maintain a crust on inactive construction areasconstruction projects that are unused
for at least four consecutive days).Application of nonafter cut and fill operations and hydroseeded areas.Plant vegetative ground cover in disturbed areas as sOperate street sweepers
that comply with SCAQMD Rules 1186 and 1186.1 on roads adjacent to the construction site so as to minimize dust emissions. Paved parking and staging areas shall be swept daily.Scheduling
truck dtraffic conditions, consolidating truck deliveries, and prohibiting truck idling in excess of 5 minutes.Reduce traffic speeds on all unpaved roads to 15 miles per hour or less.
construction sites when possible.Minimize idling time either by shutting equipment when not in use or reducing the time of idling to 5 minutes as a maximum.Limit, to the extent feasible,
the hours of operation of heavyamount o
i.j.l.
f.
e.
d.g.h.k.
All greater than 50 hp shall meet the Tier 4 emission standards, where available. In addition, all construction equipment shall be outfitted with BACT devices certified by CARB. Any
emissions control device used breductions that are no less than what could be achieved by a Level 3 diesel emissions control strategy for a similarly sized engine as defined by
m.
1
-
4.2
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
10.c
Packet Pg. 116
permitpermit
offoff
--
Field inspection signField inspection signIssuance of gradingIssuance of grading
Once, at plan checkOnce, at plan check
Periodic field inspections during constructionPeriodic field inspections during construction
construction construction
--
onstruction
CConstruction
PrePre
Community Development Department (Planning Division) Community Development Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department
(Planning Division)
4
sion)
EXHIBIT B
Community Development Department (Planning DiviSouth Coast Air Quality Management DistrictCommunity Development Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department (Planning
Division)
n,
VOC content
-
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
BACT documentations, and
the Project Site during preconstruction
SCAQMD and ICAPCD rules and
March through September for most bird
-
ver, focused surveys must occur within 30 days
call and receive information about the construction
tier specification,CARB, SCAQMD, or ICAPCD operating permit shall be provided at the time of mobilization of each applicable unit of equipment.An information sign shall be posted at
the entrance to each construction site that identifies the permitted construction hours and provides a telephone number to project or to report complaints regarding excessive fugitive
dust generation. Any reasonable complaints shall be rectified within 24 hours of their receipt.The contractor shall utilize lowcoatings and solvents that are consistent with applicableregulations.
The applicant shall retain a qualified biologist with a CDFG Scientific Collection Permit and Memorandum of Understanding to conduct preconstruction surveys for the silvery legless lizard
within the Project Site and area. Should this species be located on surveys all individuals shall be relocated, with the concurrence of the City and CDFW, to an approved site with suitable
habitat. Surveys and relocation of silvery legless lizard may occur prior to construction; howeprior to construction. Survey and relocation methods shall be approved by CDFW prior to
commencement of grading.Active nests of native bird species are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C.704) and the California Fish and Game Code (Section 3503). If activities
associated with construction or grading are planned during the bird nesting/breeding seasogenerally January through March for early nesting birds (e.g., Coopers hawks or hummingbirds)
and from mid
1412
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4.24.2Biological Resources4.34.3
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
10.c
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off
-
Field inspection sign
Periodic field inspections during construction
onstruction
c
-
Preand construction
Community Development Department (Planning Division)
5
EXHIBIT B
Community Development Department (Planning Division)
-
last
biological resources
foot buffer for raptor
foot buffer is required
-
-
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
disturbing activities, with the
-
disturbing activities.
-
on zone shall be protected by a buffer
tion fencing or other exclusionary material
ment shall endeavor to avoid the breeding
vey and ground
he buffer zone shall remain intact and maintained
species, the applicant shall have a qualified biologist conduct surveys for active nests. The project manageseason. In the event it is not feasible to avoid the nesting season, a qualified
biologist shall perform weekly nesting bird surveys beginning 30 days prior to initiation of groundsurvey conducted no more than three days prior to the start of clearance/construction
work. If grounddisturbing activities are delayed, additional preconstruction surveys shall be conducted so that no more than three days have elapsed between the sur Surveys shall include
examination of natural habitat for nesting birds. Several bird species such as killdeer and night hawks are known to nest on bare ground. Protected bird nests that are found within
the constructideemed suitable by a qualified biologist, and verified by CDFW. Typically, a 300for most species and a 500species. Buffer areas shall be delineated with orange constructhat
would inhibit access within the buffer zone. Installation of the exclusionary material delineating the buffer zone shall be verified by a qualified biologist prior to initiation of
construction activities. Twhile the nest is active (i.e., occupied or being constructed by the adults bird(s)) and until young birds have fledged and no continued use of the nest is
observed, as determined by a qualified biologist.The following guidelines shall be implemented to minimize impacts on remainingon the site as a result of construction and grading activities
and to ensure that potential impacts on these resources will remain less than significant.
4
-
4.3
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
10.c
Packet Pg. 118
6
EXHIBIT B
ved
s to
seeding with native
-
monitor to ensure that
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
ion of construction activities
ding plan.
grading meetings to ensure that
-
drainages from excess sedimentation,
approved biologist shall be retained by the
-
Attend all prethe timing and locatdo not conflict with mitigation requirements.Conduct meetings with the contractor and other key construction personnel, describing the importance of
restricting work to within the project boundaries and outside of the preserareas. The monitor shall also work with the contractor to determine the most appropriate staging/storage areas
for equipment and materials.Guide the contractor in marking/flagging the construction area limits, in accordance with the final approved graPeriodically and routinely visit the site
during construction to coordinate and monitor compliance with the above provisions.
A Cityapplicant as a construction incidental construction impacts on retained biological resources are avoided or minimized. Responsibilities of the construction monitor shall include
the following: The construction contractor shall install temporary erosion control measures to reduce impacts to and protect on site siltation, and erosion. These measures shall consist
of minimization of existing vegetation removal; the use of temporary soil covers, such as hydrospecies, mulch/binder and erosion control blanketprotect exposed soil from wind and rain
erosion; and/or the installation of silt fencing, berms, and dikes to protect storm drain inlets and drainages. No changing of oil or other fluids, or discarding of
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
10.c
Packet Pg. 119
Issuance of grading permit
and
at plan
Once check
tion
onstruc
c
-
Preand construction
Community Development
7
EXHIBIT B
Community Development
rated
ls shall
50 feet of
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
powered vehicles and equipment
-
s. This restoration shall be done in
d suspending all excavating and grading
lity Management District shall be
cept for necessary construction related activities,
any trash or other construction waste materiaoccur on the Project Site. Vehicles carrying supplies, such as concrete, shall not be allowed to empty, clean out, or otherwise place materials
into natural areas on or immediately adjacent to the site. Any equipment or vehicles driven and/or opewithin or adjacent to drainages shall be checked and maintained daily, to prevent
leaks of materials that if introduced to water could be deleterious to aquatic life. No equipment maintenance shall be conducted within the drainage channels or within channels. (Fuelshall
not be left idling or operated beyond periods need to accomplish approved tasks.) Construction personnel shall be prohibited from entry into areas outside the designated construction
area, exsuch as surveying. All such construction activities in or adjacent to remaining open space areas shall be coordinated with the project biologist. Standard dust control measures
of the South Coast Air Quaimplemented to reduce impacts on nearby plants and wildlife. This includes a variety of options to reduce dust including replacing ground cover in disturbed
areas as quickly as possible, watering active sites regularly, anoperations during periods of high winds. Upon completion of construction, the contractor shall be held responsible to
restore any haul roads, access roads, or staging areas that are outside of approved grading limitconsultation with the project biologist. Any landscaping plan(s) associated with the
project shall be reviewed by a qualified biologist or resource
5
-
4.3
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
10.c
-
Packet Pg. 120
of of
ield
roject
and finspection signoffIssuance grading permitIssuance grading permitIn the event any archaeological materials are encountered pdevelopment activities may
at plan at plan
eriodic field
pinspections during constructionOnce check Once check On going during construction
onstructiononstruction
cc
--
PrePreConstruction
Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division)
8
EXHIBIT B
Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division)
Oak tree
or areas to be
directed away
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
chever distance is greater).
ified biologist confirms the
l(s) and prepare a survey, study or
as; and (c) the monitoring for and removal of
specialist, who shall recommend appropriate provisions to prevent invasive plant species from colonizing in natural areas. These provisions may include the following: (a) review and
screening of proposed plant palette and planting plans to identify and avoid the use of invasive species; (b) weed removal during the initial planting of landscaped areweeds and other
invasive plant species as part of ongoing landscape maintenance activities.All street lighting shall be downcast luminaries or directional lighting with light patterns from natural
areas.Prior to issuance of a grading permit, an report shall be prepared and approved. All oaks that will not be removed that are regulated under the City Protection Guidelines with
driplines within 50 feet of land clearing (including brush clearing)graded shall be enclosed in a temporary fenced zone for the duration of the clearing or grading activities. Fencing
shall extend to the root protection zone (i.e., the area at least 15 feet from the trunk or 5 feet beyond the drip line, whiNo parking or storage of equipment, solvents, or chemicals
that could adversely affect the trees shall be allowed within 25 feet of the trunk at any time. Removal of the fence shall occur only after the project arborist or qualhealth of preserved
trees.In the event any archaeological materials are encountered during the course of Project development, all construction activity shall halt in the area of the find and the services
of a qualified archaeologist shall be secured to assess the discovered materiareport evaluating the significance of the materials
671
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4.34.3Cultural Resources4.4
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
10.c
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roject
resume once copies of the archaeological survey, study or report are submitted to the satisfaction of the Planning Director and copies distributed to the SCCIC Department of Anthropology.In
the event any suspected paleontological materials are encountered during the course of Project development,pdevelopment activities may resume once copies of the paleontological survey,
study or report are submitted to the satisfaction of the Planning Director and copies distributed to the Los Angeles County Natural History
On going during construction
Construction
Community Development Department (Planning Division)
9
EXHIBIT B
Community Development Department (Planning Division)
e a survey, study or
paleontological materials
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
istory Museum.
ation, or relocation of the
t of Anthropology.
ation, conservation, or relocation of the
shall contain a detailed description of the materials encountered, and recommendations if necessary, for the preservresource. Project development activities may resume once copies of
the archaeological survey, study or report are submitted to the satisfaction of the Planning Director and copies distributed to the SCCIC DepartmenIn the event any suspected are encountered
during the course of Project development, all construction activity shall halt in the area of the find and the services of a qualified paleontologist shall be secured to assess the
discovered material(s) and preparreport evaluating the significance of the materials shall contain a detailed description of the materials encountered, and recommendations if necessary,
for the preservation, conservresource. Project development activities may resume once copies of the paleontological survey, study or report are submitted to the satisfaction of the
Planning Director and copies distributed to the Los Angeles County Natural H
2
-
4.4
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
10.c
Packet Pg. 122
of of
permit
permit
Museum.Issuance buildingIssuance gradingNone, on going compliance required during construction When construction activities are anticipated to occur within 200 feet of residences, notice
of the construction schedule shall be mailed to
at plan at plan
Once check Once check
On going during constructionOn going during construction
onstructiononstruction
cc
--
PrePreConstructionConstruction
Public Works Department(Building and Safety Division)Public Works Department(Building and Safety Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department
(Planning Division)
10
ment
EXHIBIT B
Public Works Department (Building and Safety Division)Public Works Department (Building and Safety Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division)Community Development
Depart(Planning Division)
-
site
-
various
except between the
Grading plans shall
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
eport, which shall be reviewed by the
uring construction stages. When construction
Ordinance, no construction work shall occur within 300 feet of occupied residences hours of 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM Monday through Friday, and between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM on Saturday. No
construction work shall occur on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, Memorial Day, and Labor Day.The construction schedule (including the types of activities that would be occurring throughout
the duration of construction phases, anticipated truck routes, and the potential for noise impacts along local roadways from constructionrelated vehicles) shall be prominently posted
ondactivities are anticipated to occur within 200 feet of residences, notice of the construction schedule shall be mailed to such residences two weeks prior to commencement of activity.
The Proposed Project shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the City and State Building Codes and shall adhere to all modern earthquake standards, including the Geotechnical
RDivision of the Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, the Building and Safety Division for review and requirements for slope stability. also comply with City requirements for
stability under static and pseudo static loading conditions to mitigate risks associated with earthquake induced landslides.
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Geology and Soils4.54.5Noise4.84.8
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
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off
pliance
-
ield inspection
such residences two weeks prior to commencement of activity.If the job superintendent receives a complaint, the superintendent shall investigate, take appropriate corrective actions,
and report the action taken to the reporting party.None, on going compliance required during constructionNone, on going comrequired during constructionFsignNone, on going compliance
required during construction
field
ing
eriodic
On goduring constructionOn going during constructionOn going during constructionPinspections during constructionOn going during construction
ConstructionConstructionConstructionConstructionConstruction
Community Development Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department
(Planning Division)Community Development Department (Planning
11
nt
EXHIBIT B
Community Development Department (Planning Division)Community Development Departme(Planning Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department
(Planning Division)Community Development Department (Planning
-
be
report the
sac, single
-
de
-
family residences
-
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
site dormitories.
-
such as electric air compressors
-
The phone number of the job superintendent shallclearly posted at all construction entrances to allow for surrounding owners and residents to contact the job superintendent. If the job
superintendent receives a complaint, the superintendent shall investigate, take appropriate corrective actions, andaction taken to the reporting party. Contract construction document.All
internal combustion engine construction equipment shall be properly muffled or equipped with other noise attenuating devices capable of achieving a sound attenuation of at least 3 dB(A)
at 50 feet of distance. Such equipment shall also be in good working condition.As feasible, construction activities shall use specially quieted equipment,and similar power tools, rather
than diesel equipment.Construction staging areas shall be located away from sensitive land uses, particularly away from singlecurrent western terminus, singlenear Deputy family residences
near Market Street and Race Street, and existing onConstruction and grading activities shall be scheduled in such a way so as to avoid operating several pieces of equipment simultaneously,
which causes high noise levels.
34567
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4.84.84.84.84.8
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
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of
Packet Pg. 124
of
permitpermit
off
-
ield inspection
None, on going compliance required during constructionFsignIssuance gradingIssuance grading
at plan
at plan
eriodic field
On going during constructionPinspections during constructionOnce check Once check
onstructiononstruction
cc
--
ConstructionConstructionPrePre
Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division)Community DevelopmentDepartment (Planning Division)Department of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)Department
of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)
12
tment of
munity
EXHIBIT B
Division)ComDevelopment Department (Planning Division)Community Development Department (Planning Division)DeparPublic Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)Department of Public
Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)
-
th
through
-
sufficient
right lane
leg. Arch
-
th
right lane
-
location on the
through
-
through
-
Street) will include a
th
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
right lane accommodating left
-
g left turning movements to the west
Street (east and west legs) / Placerita
west of Valle Del Oro, providing two
through
Street) and Placerita Canyon Road.
-
th
leg all way stop controlled intersection
th
-
12
sight between the active construction noise
family residences.
-
sensitive land uses, particularly away from
-
-
of
-
ockweiler Drive and Placerita Canyon Road.
Dockweiler Drive extension: Construct to full Secondary Highway Pavement width, from Aden Avenue to lanes eastbound (uphill) and one lane westbound (downhill), as necessary. May be striped
for parking lane on both sides of roadway in interim condition. Class II Bike lanes and Pedestrian Sidewalks to be provided.Arch Street (north leg) / Dockweiler Drive (south leg) /
Canyon Road (southeast leg): Convert intersection to a 5including Dockweiler Drive as the 5Street will include a shared leftaccommodatinleg (12Dockweiler Drive will include a shared
leftright lane accommodating right turning movements to Placerita Canyon Road and the west leg (12Street). The east leg (12shared leftturning movements to Placerita Canyon Road and
Dockweiler Drive. The west leg (12th Street) will include a shared leftaccommodating right turning movements to DPlacerita Canyon Road will include a shared left
Construction activities whose specific site may be flexible (e.g., operation of compressors and generators, cement mixing, general truck idling) shall be conducted as far as possible
from the nearest noisesingleTemporary construction noise barriers of height shall be erected in such a way so as to disrupt linesources and any residences within 500 feet of the Project
Site.
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4.84.8Transportation/Circulation6.46.4
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
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of of of of
permitpermitpermitpermit
Issuance gradingIssuance gradingIssuance gradingIssuance grading
at plan at plan at plan at plan
Once check Once check Once check Once check
onstructiononstructiononstructiononstruction
cccc
----
PrePrePrePre
of
d
and
DepartmentPublic Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)CaltransDepartment of Public Works (Traffic andTransportation Division)Department of Public Works (Traffic anTransportation
Division) and CaltransDepartment of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division) and Caltrans
13
and
fic and
EXHIBIT B
Department of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)CaltransDepartment of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)Department of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation
Division) and CaltransDepartment of Public Works (TrafTransportation Division) and Caltrans
--
Street)
South) South)
--
th
Street) and
14 Freeway
West): The
-
-
th
West): The intersection
-
West): The intersection
-
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
South) and SR
South) and Placerita Canyon
-
-
modifications to provide an exclusive
West): The intersection modifications
northbound direction will include a left
reet.
-
ne, a through lane, and a shared through
de two through lanes and a free right turn
left turn lane and a free right turn lane. The
rn lane. The southbound direction will
-
14 Freeway Northbound Ramps (North14 Freeway Southbound Ramps (North
--
right lane accommodating left turning movements to Dockweiler Drive and west leg (12right turning movements to the east leg (12and Arch StSierra Highway (NorthSouthbound Ramps (Eastmodifications
include installing a traffic signal and widening the southbound direct to provide an additional left turn lane. The northbound direction will include a through lane, and a shared throughright
tuinclude two left turn lanes, and two through lanes. The eastbound direction will include a left turn lane and a right turn lane.Sierra Highway (NorthRoad (Eastinclude lane right turn
westbound lane and right turn northbound lane. The northbound direction will include a left turn lane, two through lanes, and a right turn lane. The south and eastbound directions will
include a left turn laright turn lane. The westbound direction will include a left turn lane, a through lane, and a right turn lane.SRand Placerita Canyon Road (Eastintersection modifications
include installing a traffic signal. The turn lane and a right turn lane. The east and westbound directions will include two through lanes.SRand Newhall Avenue (Eastmodifications include
converting the east and southbound right turn lanes to free right turns and signalizing the intersection. The eastbound direction will inclulane. The southbound direction will include
a shared through
3456
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6.46.46.46.4
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
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of of of of
permitpermitpermitpermit
Issuance gradingIssuance gradingIssuance gradingIssuance grading
at plan at plan at plan at plan
Once check Once check Once check Once check
onstructiononstructiononstructiononstruction
cccc
----
PrePrePrePre
affic and
ivision)
Department of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation DDepartment of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)Department of Public Works (TrTransportation Division)Department
of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)
14
EXHIBIT B
Department of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)Department of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)Department of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation
Division)Department of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)
-
right
-
hrough
t
-
right lane to a
-
right lane. The
right lane to a
-
right turn lane to
-
-
northbound direction
South) and 13th Street
-
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
South) and Lyons Avenue
-
South) and Newhall Avenue
South) and Placerita Canyon
-
-
shared through
right turn lane. The eastbound
-
The intersection modifications include
West): The Intersection modifications
-
mmodate two additional through lanes. The
West): West): The intersection modifications include West): Intersection modifications include
---
westbound direction will include a left turn lane and two through lanes.Newhall Avenue (North(Eastconverting the eastbound throughright turn lane. The northbound direction will include
two left turn lanes and a shared throughright lane. The southbound direction will include a left turn lane and aeast and westbound directions will include a left turn lane, two through
lanes, and a right turn lane.Railroad Avenue (North(Eastwidening the south and westbound direction to include a left turn lane. The will include a left turn lane, two through lanes
and a right turn lane. The southbound direction will include two left turn lanes, through lane, and a shared throughdirection will include a shared leftturn lane. The westbound direction
will include a left turn lane, a through, and a right turn lane.Sierra Highway (NorthRoad (Eastinclude widening to accommodate lane modifications to all approaches. Widen the northbound
direction to accommodate an additional through lane. Widen the east and southbound directions to accommodate two additional through lanes and restripe the shared throughright turn only
lane. Widen the westbound direction to acconorth, east, south, and westbound direction will include a left turn lane, three through lanes, and a right turn lane.Sierra Highway (North(Eastconverting
the northbound througha through lane and widening to accommodate a free right turn. The northbound direction will include
78910
----
6.46.46.46.4
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
10.c
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of of
permitpermit
ce
off
-
Issuance gradingField inspection signIssuangrading
at plan at plan
Once check Periodic field inspections during constructionOnce check
onstructiononstruction
cc
--
PreConstructionPre
Department of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)Department of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)Department of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation
Division)
15
sion)
EXHIBIT B
Department of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation DiviDepartment of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)Department of Public Works (Traffic and Transportation Division)
nclude a left
advance notice
site staging areas
-
ow the location of
peak hours. The
-
through lane. Newhall
through lane. Main Street
-
-
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
uction vehicles, and
Newhall Avenue (south
peak commuting periods,
-
Management Plan shall be
and a right turn lane.
right turn lane. The east and westbound
-
t turn lanes, two through lanes, and a free
possible.
two lefright turn. The southbound direction will include a left turn lane, two through lanes, and a shared throughdirections will include two left turn lane, three through lanes,Main
Street (north leg) / leg) / Newhall Avenue (west leg): The intersection modifications include widening the northbound direction to accommodate a left turn lane and the eastbound direction
to accommodate a right turn lane. Newhall Avenue (south leg) will iturn lane and a shared leftwill include a shared rightAvenue (east leg) will include a shared left right lane and
a right turn lane.Construction related heavy duty truck trips should be scheduled during offwhen A Construction submitted to the City of Santa Clarita Department of Public Works (Traffic
and Transportation Division) and LASD Santa Clarita Valley Station for review and approval prior to the commencement of any construction. The plans shall shany roadway or sidewalk closures,
traffic detours, haul routes, hours of operation, protective devices, warning signs and access to abutting properties, and if applicable, the location of offfor haul trucks and constrprovide
one or more emergency lane through the Project site at all times. All construction related traffic shall be restricted to offClarita Valley Station shall receiveprior to any changes
in temporary lane closures or realignments.
111213
---
6.46.46.4
Attachment: Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION
10.c
Packet Pg. 128
of of
permitpermit
Issuance gradingIssuance grading
at plan at plan
Once check Once check
onstructiononstruction
cc
--
PrePre
Public Works Department(Building and Safety Division)Public Works Department(Building and Safety Division)
16
EXHIBIT B
Public Works Department (Building and Safety Division)Public Works Department (Building and Safety Division)
residential to
owned lines.
-
-
coordinate with
Applicant
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
2000 for Non
-
and other Utility owners in the area
up on this matter.
-
The project Applicant shall call Underground Service Alert at 811 at least two business days prior to performing any excavation work for the proposed project. Underground Service Alert
will coordinate with SoCalGas to mark the locations of buried utilityShould it be determined that the proposed project may require SoCalGas to abandon and/or relocate or otherwise modify
any portion of its existing natural gas lines, SoCalGas respectfully requests that the County and/or the project us by calling (800) 427follow
-
12
--
Utilities5.15.1
10.d
CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 18-___
EXHIBIT C
FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
PROPOSED LYONS AVENUE/DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION PROJECT
INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
www.santa-clarita.com/dockweilereir
Attachment: Exhibit C - Final EIR (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO
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RESOLUTION NO. 18-____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE ALIGNMENT OF THE DOCKWEILER DRIVE
EXTENSION TO CONNECT AT ARCH STREET/13TH STREET AND AUTHORIZING AN
APPLICATION TO THE CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION TO CONSIDER
NECESSARY IMPROVEMENTS TO THE 13TH STREET AT-GRADE RAIL CROSSING
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. FINDINGS OF FACT. The City Council does hereby make the following
findings of fact:
a. On June 25, 1991, the City Council adopted the City of Santa Clarita (City) General
Plan by adoption of Resolution No. 91-98. On June 14, 2011, the City Council
adopted an update to the City General Plan by adoption of Resolution No. 11-61.
b. The Circulation Element of the General Plan and the Joint Highway Plan designate
Dockweiler drive as a secondary arterial roadway.
c. The Circulation Element of the General Plan identifies future roadway improvements
needed to implement the buildout of the Joint Highway Plan. Roadway improvements
include constructing the Dockweiler Drive roadway segment, a four-lane secondary
highway, from the existing terminus just east of Leonard Tree Lane, to Railroad
Avenue and Lyons Avenue. The Joint Highway Plan refers to the Circulation Element
(County) Santa Clarita
Valley Area Plan. The City and the County worked together to develop one Highway
Plan that was incorporated as the Circulation Element in eac
General Plan/Area Plan.
d. On January 13, 2009, a 0.64-mile segment of Dockweiler Drive was approved by the
City Council as a part of T-mile
segment of Dockweiler Drive includes extension of a four-lane roadway from the
terminus of Dockweiler to the westerly property line of The
segment of Dockweiler Drive has not been constructed.
e. The City of Santa Clarita received $5,899,000 in Proposition C grant funding from
the 2013 Metro Call for Projects and $5,475,000 in Proposition C grant funding from
the 2015 Metro Call for Projects equaling $11,374,000 in grant funding for
construction of the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension for Project.
f. On October 23, 2012, the City Council awarded a contract to Hall & Foreman and
consultants (now David Evans and Associates Inc.) to complete the Environmental
Impact Report (EIR) for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project.
Attachment: Resolution - Project (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO
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g. The project consists of a 0.44-mile extension of Dockweiler Drive from the approved
extension of Dockweiler Drive at T
Lyons Avenue, along with a connection to Arch Street/13th Street. The project would
consist of a four-lane roadway with a 12-foot raised landscaped median, a 13-foot
sidewalk/parkway on each side. The typical right-of-way width would be 92 feet. The
project would also include the closure of the at-grade rail crossing at 13th Street with
required street improvements.
h. The environmentally superior alternative project, as identified as Alternative 2
(Proposed Alignment to Arch Street/13th Street without the Lyons At-Grade
Crossing), includes the construction of the proposed roadway alignment and
associated infrastructure for Dockweiler Drive, which would extend Dockweiler
Drive 0.67 miles from T Arch Street/13th Street. The route
would continue along Arch Street to 13th Street to link with Railroad Avenue. Unlike
the Proposed Project, Alternative 2 does not include the roadway segment between
the Dockweiler Drive extension and Lyons Avenue, which spans a portion of the
Newhall Creek. Additionally, Alternative 2 proposes to maintain and improve the
13th Street at-grade rail crossing. The Alternative 2 Project would require
improvements to Arch Street and 13th Street to accommodate traffic from the
extension of Dockweiler Drive to Arch Street.
i. Surrounding land uses to the project site include vacant, industrial, and residential
uses to the north and zoned Mixed Use Neighborhood (MXN); vacant, residential,
and college uses to the east and zoned MXN and Public/Institutional (PI); the
Newhall Creek to the south and zoned Specific Plan (SP); and Old Town Newhall to
the west and zoned SP. Land use and zoning designations for the project site include
MXN and PI.
j. In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City of
Santa Clarita is the identified lead agency, with the City Council as the decision-
making body for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project.
k. The City prepared an Initial Study for the project, which determined that the project
may have a significant effect on the environment, and that an EIR must be prepared.
The Initial Study determined that the following areas must be addressed in the EIR:
aesthetics, air quality, biological resources, cultural resources, geology and soils,
hydrology/water quality, land use/planning, noise, and transportation/traffic.
l. On August 5, 2013, a Notice of Preparation (NOP) was circulated to affected
agencies, pursuant to CEQA statutes and the CEQA Guidelines (Title 14, Cal. Code
of Regs. §§ 15000 et seq.). Numerous comments from agencies and the public were
received over the 30-day review period, which ended on September 3, 2013.
Agencies that received the NOP include, but are not limited to, the State of California
Public Utilities Commission, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Southern
California Regional Rail Authority, the County of Los Angeles, the California
Regional Water Quality Control Board, Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, South
Coast Air Quality Management District, law enforcement agencies, school districts,
Attachment: Resolution - Project (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO
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waste haulers, water agencies, and transportation agencies serving the Santa Clarita
consultation requirements. Numerous comments
from public agencies, organizations, and members of the public were received in
response to the NOP.
m. On August 21, 2013, a Scoping Meeting was held at City Hall, 23920 Valencia
Boulevard, Santa Clarita, California, to obtain information from the public as to
issues that should be addressed in the EIR. Notice of the Scoping Meeting was mailed
to all property owners within 1,000 feet of the subject site and to all affected
agencies.
n. The City and the EIR consultant developed three project alternatives as part of
preparing the Draft Environmental Impact Report (Draft EIR), including: 1) the No
Project Alternative; 2) Alternative 1 (Proposed Alignment with the 13th Street Rail
Crossing); and 3) Alternative 2 (Proposed Alignment to Arch Street Without Lyons
At-Grade Crossing). In addition, three other alternatives were considered, but rejected
as infeasible because of the physical constraints associated with each of these
alternatives. These other alternatives that were considered but rejected from further
study included: 1) the Market Street Alignment; 2) the Lyons Avenue Overpass; and
3) the Lyons Avenue Underpass.
o. A Draft EIR for the project was prepared and circulated for review and comment by
affected governmental agencies and the public and all issues raised in the NOP and by
comments received on the NOP have been considered, in compliance with CEQA.
The Notice of Availability/Notice of Completion for the Draft EIR was filed, posted,
and advertised on August 16, 2017, and the public review period ran for 60 days,
from August 16, 2017, through October 16, 2017, all in accordance with CEQA. All
written comments received during the review period were accepted for inclusion in
the Final EIR Responses to Comments.
p. Two duly-noticed public outreach meetings were held on September 14, 2017, and
September 28, 2017, to receive public comments on the Draft EIR. The public
outreach meetings were advertised by mailing to all property owners within 1,000
feet of the project site, to commenting agencies on the NOP, and to neighboring
. The meetings were held
#35, EHC Room 100, Santa Clarita, California, at 6:00 p.m. The following occurred
at the public outreach meetings:
1. On September 14 and 28, 2017, City staff conducted public outreach meetings
on the project. Staff provided a summary of the project description and the
Draft EIR and received public testimony regarding the project. Approximately
100 people attended each meeting.
q. Following the public outreach meetings, the City prepared the Final EIR (February
2018; SCH No. 2013082016). The Final EIR contained copies of all written comment
letters; responses to all written comments received on the Draft EIR.
Attachment: Resolution - Project (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO
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r.
commenting agencies, organizations, and persons.
s. The City Council held a duly noticed public hearing on the Lyons
Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project and Final EIR on February 27, 2018, at
City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, California, at 6:00 p.m. At this
meeting, the City Council received a presentation on the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler
Drive Extension project from staff and the environmental consultant, and received
public testimony regarding the project. At the conclusion of the meeting, the City
Council continued the public hearing to April 10, 2018.
t. The City Council held a duly noticed public hearing on the Lyons
Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project and Final EIR on April 10, 2018, at City
Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, at 6:00 p.m. At this meeting, the City
Council received a presentation on the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension
project from staff and the environmental consultant, and received public testimony
regarding the project. At the conclusion of the hearing, the City Council closed the
public hearing and adopted all of the necessary approval documents (resolutions,
findings of fact, responses to comments, mitigation monitoring, reporting program,
etc.) for certification of the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project Final
EIR and for approval of the environmentally superior alternative alignment as
analyzed in the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project.
u. Based upon the Draft EIR (August 2017) and Final EIR (February 2018), staff and
consultant presentations, staff reports, and public comments and testimony, the City
Council finds the project will not adversely affect the health, peace, comfort, or
welfare of persons residing in the area; nor will the project be materially detrimental
to the use, enjoyment, or valuation of property in the vicinity of the project site; nor
will the project jeopardize, endanger or otherwise constitute a menace to the public
health, safety, or general welfare since the project conforms with the General Plan
and is compatible with surrounding land uses.
v. Additionally, the City Council finds all public meetings pertaining to the project were
duly noticed in accordance with the noticing requirements for the project. The project
was advertised in The Signal, by sign posting, and by direct first-class mailing to
property owners within 1,000 feet of the project site.
w. The location of the documents and other materials that constitute the record of
proceedings upon which the decision of the City Council is based is project file for
the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project is with the Public Works
Department; the record specifically is in the custody of the Director of Public Works.
SECTION 2. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT REQUIREMENTS.
The City Council does hereby make the following findings of facts:
a. On April 10, 2018, the City Council certified the Final EIR (SCH No. 2013082016) by
Attachment: Resolution - Project (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO
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separate resolution, which was prepared in compliance with CEQA. For purposes of
this finding, the Final EIR is comprised of the Draft EIR (August 2017) and Final EIR
(February 2018).
SECTION 3. Based upon the testimony and other evidence, if any, received at the City
Council meeting, and upon studies and investigations made by the City Council and on its
behalf, the City Council further finds and determines that this proposal is consistent with the
City's General Plan.
SECTION 4. The City Council hereby approves the alignment of Dockweiler Drive
extension to connect at Arch Street/13th Street, in accordance with the environmentally superior
alternative project (Alternative 2), as described in the Final Environmental Impact Report for the
Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project.
SECTION 5. The City Council hereby directs and authorizes the City Manager, or
designee, to file the applicable application with the CPUC for the necessary improvements to the
13th Street at-grade rail crossing.
SECTION 6
April 10, 2018, City Council meeting.
SECTION 7. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution and certify
this record to be a full, complete, and correct copy of the action taken.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this __________ day of _______, ______.
______________________________
MAYOR
ATTEST:
_____________________________
CITY CLERK
DATE: _______________________
Attachment: Resolution - Project (DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE, PROJECT S3023 - ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )
I, Mary Cusick, City Clerk, of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the foregoing
Resolution was regularly introduced and passed at a regular meeting of the City Council on the
_______ day of ________________, __________ by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
___________________________________
CITY CLERK
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Agenda Item: 7
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
AGENDA REPORT
PUBLIC HEARINGS
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:
DATE: February 27, 2018
SUBJECT: FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE
DOCKWEILER DRIVE EXTENSION AT LYONS AVENUE,
PROJECT S3023
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
PRESENTER: Mike Hennawy
RECOMMENDED ACTION
City Council:
1. Conduct a Public Hearing; and receive the staff report, presentation, and public comments.
2. Adopt a resolution certifying the Final Environmental Impact Report (State Clearinghouse
Number 2013082016) prepared for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project,
which includes the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Environmental Findings,
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and the Statement of Overriding
Considerations.
3. Adopt a resolution approving the alignment of the Dockweiler Drive Extension as described
in the Final Environmental Impact Report as Alternative 2 (alignment to Arch Street/13th
Street without at-grade rail crossing at Lyons Avenue), and authorizing staff to submit an
application to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) for applicable
improvements to the 13th Street at-grade rail crossing.
BACKGROUND
The purpose of the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project is to ascertain the
feasibility of the General Plan alignment for Dockweiler Drive, which identifies the connection
of Dockweiler Drive to Lyons Avenue at Railroad Avenue. The extension of Lyons Avenue
across the existing Metrolink line with a connection to the existing portion of Dockweiler Drive
was identified by the City of Santa Clarita (City) as one of its key transportation projects. The
Newhall Specific Plan as well as the Compass Blueprint Concept Plan. Completion of the EIR
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for the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project supports the Building and Creating
Community theme of the Santa Clarita 2020 plan.
The Circulation Element of the General Plan contains a Joint Highway Plan, which identifies
Highway Plan designates Dockweiler Drive as a secondary highway. Roadway improvements
identified in the Circulation Element include constructing the Dockweiler Drive roadway
segment, a four-lane roadway, from Sierra Highway to Railroad Avenue.
Certification of the EIR by the City Council will confirm the alignment of this project is in
uld allow the City to proceed with the
appropriate application to the CPUC for rail crossing improvements. There is no development
project associated with this report, nor will the City Council's approval of this item authorize
construction of this roadway. Future development in the surrounding area will require additional
analysis related to any specific proposed projects.
On October 23, 2012, the City Council granted approval to contract with Hall and Forman, Inc.
now David Evans and Associates Inc. to prepare an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the
Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project, which analyzes potential environmental
impacts related to the proposed extension.
In August 2013, staff circulated the Notice of Preparation for the project and on August 21,
2013, a Scoping Meeting was conducted. The Draft Environmental Impact Report (Draft EIR)
was completed in August 2017, and circulated for review from August 16, 2017, to October 16,
2017. Two public outreach meetings were held during the comment period, on September 14 and
September 28, 2017.
The City received $5,899,000 in Proposition C grant funding from the 2013 Metro Call for
Projects and $5,475,000 in Proposition C grant funding from the 2015 Metro Call for Projects
totaling $11,374,000 in grant funding for construction of the Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive
Extension project.
Project Description
The Lyons Avenue/Dockweiler Drive Extension project EIR studies new roadway alignment
options between Railroad Avenue on the west to the
Plan Dockweiler Drive extension to the east.
Project Analyzed in the EIR - Connection at Lyons Avenue
This alignment would connect the Dockweiler Drive extension to Lyons Avenue with a new at-
grade crossing at the railroad tracks including fully upgraded improvements at the crossing. The
proposed roadway would be approximately 0.44 miles in length and is designated as a four-lane
line would consist of a four-lane roadway with a 12-foot raised landscaped median and a 13-foot
sidewalk/parkway on each side. The typical right-of-way width would be 92 feet.
This project would also include the closure of the at-grade crossing at 13th Street with required
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street improvements.
Environmental Impact Report Project Alternatives
As mandated by CEQA, the EIR evaluated a reasonable range of project alternatives that would
the EIR include:
1. No Project Alternative
2. Alternative 1 (proposed alignment with improvements at 13th Street rail crossing)
3. Alternative 2 (proposed alignment to Arch Street/13th Street without at-grade crossing at
Lyons Avenue)
Other alternatives that were evaluated, but dismissed from further study due to their infeasibility
and/or the potential to result in increased environmental impacts, included an overpass and/or
underpass on Lyons Avenue beneath/over Railroad Avenue and an alternative alignment that
would connect Dockweiler Drive to Market Street.
Among the alternatives evaluated, Alternative 2 was identified as the environmentally superior
environmental impacts with respect to aesthetics, biological resources, cultural resources,
geology/soils, hydrology/water quality and traffic. The significant unavoidable temporary
impacts associated with localized air quality emissions and noise during construction would still
occur under this alternative.
Environmentally Superior Alternative - Connection at 13th Street
The environmentally superior alternative alignment (Alternative 2) identified in the EIR would
connect the Dockweiler Drive extension to Arch Street to the existing 13th Street at-grade rail
crossing at Railroad Avenue. This alignment would require improvements to both Arch Street
and 13th Street. This project will provide a fully upgraded railroad crossing at 13th Street and
Railroad Avenue. The proposed roadway would be approximately 0.67 miles in length and is
designated as a four-lane secondary highway per the Joint Highway Plan. The proposed ultimate
University property line would consist of a four-lane roadway with a 12-foot raised landscaped
median, a 13-foot sidewalk/parkway and a 5-foot bike lane on each side. The typical right-of-
way width would be 92 feet. This project would not include a connection of the roadway to
Lyons Avenue, a new at-grade rail crossing, or a bridge over the Newhall Creek.
Market Street Alternative
As a result of the comments received at the public outreach meetings, staff performed additional
analyses for the Dockweiler Drive/Market Street alternative. This alignment was originally
rejected in the Draft EIR from further consideration due to the physical constraints associated
with respect to public safety and local residential street standards.
The City conducted a detailed analysis to assess the feasibility of connecting Dockweiler Drive
to Market Street while maintaining a 6 percent profile to comply with roadway standards for
secondary highways. In order to accomplish this, the joint point of this alignment would need to
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encroach on private property within The Master's University to connect to the terminus of
existing Dockweiler Drive. This alignment would conflict with the approved The Master's
University entitlements and site development design for the portion of the Dockweiler Drive
extension that was approved in 2009. Such an alignment would necessitate a complete design
change to The Master's University roadway plan, and may result in a change or revocation of the
In addition, the analysis of the Market Street alternative concluded that the alignment would
increase traffic volumes at that location by approximately 200 percent. This alignment would
also require a complete redesign of the intersection at Market Street and Main Street, including
street improvements and a signalized intersection. Resulting effects would disrupt the pedestrian-
friendly character and Main Street feel of Old Town Newhall, which is contrary to the objectives
identified in the Old Town Newhall Specific Plan. Additionally, to comply with the secondary
highway roadway standards, this alternative would require the partial acquisition of 17 parcels,
including the potential relocation of 31 residential units, the existing Newhall Metrolink Station,
Newhall Community Center, Veterans Historical Plaza, and the Santa Clarita Courthouse, which
Ordinance. Below is a table with the comparison for the three alternatives studied and the
property impacts.
PROPERTY IMPACT COMPARISON
th
Lyons Market Street
13 Street
Connection
Connection Connection
Number of Residential Units
2 2 61
within 100 feet
Number of Buildings Requiring
1 1 10
Demolition
Number of Potential Relocated
0 0 31
Residential Units
Historic Interest Buildings
0 0 Ļ hƌķ /ƚǒƩƷŷƚǒƭĻ
Requiring Demolition
Veterans Memorial
Plaza
Recreational Facilities/Parks to
0 0
be Impacted
Newhall Community
Center
Existing Dockweiler Drive Impacts
Concerns regarding the elimination of parking on the existing section of Dockweiler Drive (from
Sierra Highway to Leonard Tree Lane) as a result of this project were also brought up in the
public meetings. Both the EIR for this project and the Circulation Element indicate that future
build out traffic volumes along the extension of Dockweiler Drive will not exceed the capacity of
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a two-lane roadway. In this case, the parking lanes along the existing and new segments of
Dockweiler Drive would remain. At some time in the future, if the traffic volumes along
Dockweiler ever exceed the capacity of a two-lane roadway, the parking lanes could be removed
and the roadway restriped to a four-lane section. It is not anticipated that this will be necessary.
Environmental Impact Report Conclusions
The EIR addresses the following environmental factors: aesthetics, air quality, biological
resources, cultural resources, geology and soils, hydrology and water quality, land use, noise,
and transportation and traffic. The Draft EIR also includes a detailed project description,
environmental setting section, project alternatives, and a cumulative impacts discussion at the
end of each section. Mitigation measures were able to reduce impacts to a less than significant
level in most areas. However, a Statement of Overriding Considerations (SOC) would be
required to address the following significant unavoidable impacts:
Air Quality - A localized air quality impact would occur since project construction would
result in PM10 and PM2.5 emissions that exceed the localized significance thresholds at
nearby sensitive receptors. Recommended mitigation measures would reduce
construction-related emissions to some extent, but it is not expected that feasible
mitigation measures exist that would reduce these emissions to a sufficient enough degree
-based thresholds of
significance. For these same reasons, implementation of these mitigation measures would
not be likely to reduce the impacts to less than significant levels. Therefore, construction-
related emissions for the proposed project would be considered significant and
unavoidable. Thus, an SOC would be necessary.
Noise - Noise caused from construction activities, including grading and the construction
of roadways and infrastructure, are considered to be potentially significant.
Recommended mitigation measures have been included in the EIR, and in summary,
-
related noise impacts. However, construction-related noise impacts are considered
unavoidable and significant. Thus, an SOC would be necessary for these short-term,
temporary impacts.
Final Environmental Impact Report
The Draft Final EIR, includes the Draft EIR, written comments by government agencies and the
public on the Draft EIR, detailed responses to written comments on the Draft EIR, responses to
public comments provided at the September 14 and September 28, 2017, public outreach
meetings, and additions and corrections to the Draft EIR text and mitigation measures.
On February 6, 2018, the City sent notification of the public hearing on the project to all property
owners within a 1,000 foot radius of the project. The Draft Final EIR was made available on
February 14, 2018, and forwarded to affected agencies and members of the public who provided
written comments on the Draft EIR, and to commenting agencies, and was made available at
In recommending certification of the Final EIR and approval of the environmentally superior
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alternative project (Alternative 2 - connection at 13th Street), staff recommends the City Council
find there is substantial evidence to support the conclusion that the environmentally superior
alternative project will result in community benefits that outweigh the unavoidable and
significant effects of the alternative project on the environment. These benefits include the
following:
1. Implement goals of the Circulation Element of the Santa Clarita General Plan, by
providing for an improved circulation network, consisting of connectivity between Sierra
Highway and Railroad Avenue.
2. Provide greater connectivity between Old Town Newhall, Placerita Canyon, The
Drive.
3. Improve the roadway level of service and circulation network.
4. Provide an additional emergency access roadway for Placerita Canyon residents.
5. Provide a safe and efficient at-grade rail crossing that meets the standards of the
California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
6. Provide sufficient information for an application to the CPUC for applicable rail crossing
improvements.
7. Improve pedestrian and vehicle railroad safety by improving an existing substandard at-
grade rail crossing at 13th Street.
8. Reduce vehicle miles traveled by creating a more direct route for motorists.
ALTERNATIVE ACTION
Other action as determined by the City Council.
FISCAL IMPACT
This City Council action has no fiscal impact.
ATTACHMENTS
Notice of Public Hearing
Resolution - Final Environmental Impact Report
Exhibit A - CEQA Facts and Findings
Exhibit B - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program
Exhibit C - Final EIR
Resolution - Project
Memo re Lyons Avenue-Dockweiler Drive Draft EIR
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