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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011-06-14 - RESOLUTIONS - APPROVING MASTER CASE 10-128 FOR THE CITY OF SANTA (2)RESOLUTION 11-61 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING MASTER CASE 10-128 (GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 10-002) FOR THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA GENERAL PLAN PROJECT 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. In 2000, the City Council initiated the One Valley One Vision (OVOV) process in partnership with the County of Los Angeles to create a new General Plan to be a long-range policy -making document to guide and respond to anticipated growth, development, environmental protection, and economic trends over the next several decades. b. The County of Los Angeles is simultaneously processing a general plan amendment to the Santa Clarita Valley Local Area Plan that encompasses the majority of the goals policies and objectives of the OVOV document. C. The City of Santa Clarita's OVOV entitlement request (Project) consists of: General Plan Amendment (GPA) 10-002: To amend and provide General Plan land use map (Exhibit B) designations and to amend and provide the seven required General Plan (Exhibit A) elements plus one additional element: Conservation/Open Space, Land Use, Noise, Circulation, Housing, Safety, and Economic Development in a manner consistent with the goals, objectives and policies of the City. This would replace the existing City of Santa Clarita General Plan and Land Use Map. d. In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City of Santa Clarita is the identified lead agency with the Planning Commission as the recommending body and the City Council as the decision -making body for the project. A Draft Environmental Impact Report for the General Plan ("Draft EIR) was prepared and circulated for review and comment by affected governmental agencies and the public. All findings required by CEQA are addressed in Council CEQA Resolution 11-62; e. On September 6, 2007, the City Council awarded a contract for Impact Sciences (the "consultant") to prepare the EIR for the project; f. A Notice of Preparation ("NOP") for the project was circulated to affected agencies, —' pursuant to CEQA and the State CEQA Guidelines (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15000 et seq.), for 30 days, beginning on July 25, 2008. Agencies that received NOPs included, but were not limited to, California Department of Transportation, California Department of Fish and Game, County Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County; County of Ventura, Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, Native American -- Heritage Commission, law enforcement agencies, school districts, waste haulers, water agencies and transportation agencies serving the Santa Clarita Valley in accordance with CEQA's consultation requirements. Numerous comments from public agencies, organizations, and members of the public were received in response to the NOPs. g. A scoping meeting was held at the City of Santa Clarita Council Chambers on August 45 2008, to obtain information from the public as to issues that should be addressed in the EIR. h. The Planning Commission held duly -noticed Study Sessions on Aprn 15, 2008, June 17, 2008, July 15, 2008, October 21, 2008, November 18, 2008, February 17, 2009 and March 16, 2010, in accordance with the noticing requirements. The Study Sessions were held at City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita. The following occurred at the public meetings: 1. On April 15, 2008, the Planning Commission received a presentation on the draft proposed Safety Element of the General Plan. At that meeting staff received comments from both the Planning Commission and the public. 2. On June 17, 2008, the Planning Commission received a presentation on the draft proposed Conservation and Open Space Elements of the General Plan. At that meeting staff received comments from both the Planning Commission and the public. 3. On July 15, 2008, the Planning Commission received a presentation on the draft proposed Land Use Element of the General Plan. At that meeting staff received comments from both the Planning Commission and the public. 4. On October 21, 2008, the Planning Commission received a presentation on the draft proposed Circulation Element of the General Plan. At that meeting staff received comments from both the Planning Commission and the public. 5. On November 18, 2008, the Planning Commission received a presentation on the draft proposed Housing Element of the General Plan. At that meeting staff received comments from both the Planning Commission and the public. 6. On February 17, 2009, the Planning Commission received a presentation on the draft proposed Noise Element of the General Plan. At that meeting staff received comments from both the Planning Commission and the Awaft public. 2 7. On March 16, 2010, the Planning Commission received a presentation on "" the draft proposed Economic Development Element of the General Plan. At that meeting staff received comments from both the Planning Commission and the public. i. The City of Santa Clarita prepared a Draft EIR for the General Plan that substantively responded to the issues raised in comments received on the NOP. The Draft EIR was circulated for review and comment by affected governmental agencies and the public, in compliance with CEQA. Specifically, the Notice of Availability/Notice of Completion for the Draft EIR was filed, posted and advertised on September 22, 2010, and the 150-day public review period ended on February 22, 2011, 5:00 p.m. in accordance with CEQA. Late written comments received prior to March 2, 2011, were responded to in the Final EIR Responses to Comments. Additionally, oral comments expressed at the Planning Commission Public Hearings prior to and including March 1, 2011, were topically responded to in the April 2011 Final EIR Responses to Comments. Oral and written comments received on or after March 2, 2011, may be responded to prior to certification and approval of the project as directed by the City Council. j . The Planning Commission held duly -noticed public hearings on October 5, 2010, November 16, 2010, December 7, 2010, January 18, 2011 and March 1, 2011, in accordance with the noticing requirements of the entitlement. The project was advertised in The Signal newspaper. The hearings were held at City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, at 7:00 p.m. Additional public meetings, following the close of the public hearing, were held on April 19, 2011 and May 17, 2011. The following occurred at the public hearings and public meeting: 1. On October 5, 2010, the Planning Commission opened the public hearing, received City staff s presentation summarizing the proposed project, project description and Draft EIR, received public testimony regarding the project and staff received comments and questions from the Planning Commission regarding the project; 2. On November 16, 2010, staff provided answers to questions that were raised by the Commission on October 5, 2010, and staff presented the draft Land Use and Circulation Elements and related contents from the Draft EIR. The Planning Commission received public testimony regarding the project and staff received comments and questions from the Planning Commission regarding the project; 3. On December 7, 2010, staff provided answers to questions that were raised by the Commission on November 16, 2010, and staff continued the presentation on draft Land Use and Circulation Elements and related contents from the Draft EIR. The Planning Commission received public testimony regarding the project and staff received comments and questions from the Planning Commission regarding the project; J 4. On January 18, 2011, staff provided answers to questions that were raised by the Commission on December 7, 2010, and staff presented the General Plan `-- subject areas of Climate Change, Greenhouse Gas, Air Quality, Water Resources and related contents from the Draft EIR. The Planning Commission received public testimony regarding the project and staff received comments and questions from the Planning Commission regarding the project; 5. On March l , 2011, staff provided answers to questions that were raised by the Commission on January 18, 2011. The Planning Commission received public testimony, closed the public hearing and directed staff to prepare the Final EIR and return on April 19, 2011 with resolutions of recommendation to the City Council; 6. On April 19, 2011, the Planning Commission continued the project to May 17, 2011; and 7. On May 17, 2011, the Planning Commission received the Final EIR, staff presented the necessary approval documents (resolutions, findings of fact, mitigation monitoring and reporting program) and the Planning Commission voted to recommend that the City Council take formal action to certify the Final EIR for the new General Plan and approve the general plan amendment. k. The Final EIR, recommended by the Planning Commission for certification by resolution P 11-08, includes the Draft EIR, comments on the Draft EIR, and the following: responses to written comments on the Draft EIR, topical responses to public testimony regarding Draft EIR issues raised at the October 5, November 16, December 7, January 18 and March 1 public hearings, and modifications to the Draft EIR text and mitigation measures. The Draft EIR was presented to the Planning Commission on October 5, 2010, and the remaining Final EIR documents were prepared and provided to the Planning Commission prior to its April 19, 2011 meeting. On May 6, 2011, a copy of the responses to comments from the Final EIR was sent to each agency and individual who submitted timely comments on the Draft EIR. The Planning Commission considered the Final EIR prepared for the General Plan, as well as information provided in staff reports, presented to the Planning Commission from experts, and presented in public testimony, including letters submitted to the Planning Commission following the close of the Draft EIR public comment period up through March 1, 2011, prior to recommending approval of the General Plan. 1. The Planning Commission has recommended that the City Council adopt a Statement of Overriding Considerations for those impacts in the General Plan that cannot be mitigated to less than significant levels, and has recommended certification of the Final EIR by Resolution No. P I 1-08, adopted on May 17, 2011. M. At its hearings on the General Plan, listed above, the Planning Commission considered staff and consultant presentations, staff reports, information presented E to the Commission to assist its understanding of the General Plan, its EIR, and public comments and testimony on the General Plan and Final EIR. n. Based upon the staff and consultant presentations, staff reports, applicant presentations, and public comments and testimony, the Planning Commission recommends that the General Plan, as modified, will not adversely affect the health, peace, comfort, or welfare of persons residing in the area; nor will the General Plan jeopardize, endanger or otherwise constitute a menace to the public health, safety, or general welfare. o. The location of the documents and other materials that constitute the record of proceedings upon which the decision of the Planning Commission is based for the Master C"ase project rile is with the Community Development 13epar -men ,! the record specifically is in the custody of the Director of Community Development. P. The City Council subsequently held a duly public hearing on the General Plan on June 14, 2011. This hearing was held at City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, at 6;00 p.m. The City Council closed the public hearing on June 14, 2011. q. On June 141, 2011, the City Council received public testimony, closed the public hearing, certified the Final EIR and adopted the necessary resolutions for approval of the project. The Draft EIR (September 2010) and Planning Commission Final EIR (May 2011) have been prepared and circulated in compliance with CEQA. r. Based upon the Draft EIR (September 2010) and Planning Commission Final EIR (May 2011), staff presentation, staff report, and public comments and testimony, the City Council finds that the General Plan, as modified, will not adversely affect the health, peace, comfort, or welfare of residents in the planning area; nor will the General Plan be materially detrimental to the use, enjoyment, or valuation of property in planning area. S. Additionally, the City Council finds that the public hearing pertaining to General Plan project were duly noticed in accordance with the noticing requirements for this entitlement. The project was advertised in The Signal, the newspaper of general circulation on May 20, 2011. t. The location of the documents and other materials that constitute the record of proceedings upon which the decision of the City Council is based for the Master Case 10-128 project file is with the Community Development Department; the record specifically is in the custody of the Director of Community Development. SECTION 2. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT REQUIREMENTS. The City Council does hereby make the following findings of facts: a. On June 14, 2011, the City Council certified the Final EIR (SCH No. 2008071133) by separate resolution for Master Case 10-128, which was prepared 5 in compliance with CEQA. For purposes of this finding, the Final EIR is comprised of the Draft EIR (September 2010) and Final EIR (May 2011). SECTION 3. FINDINGS FOR GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 10-002. Based on the above findings of fact and recitals and the entire record, including, without limitation, the entire General Plan EIR, oral and written testimony and other evidence received at the public hearings, reports and other transmittals from City staff to the Planning Commission and City Council, and upon studies and investigations made by the Planning Commission and City Council, and on behalf of each, the City Council finds, as follows: a. Following approval of General Plan Amendment 10-002, the General Plan (Exhibit A) is consistent with the City's General Plan, as documented in the General Plan project EIR which contains a detailed analysis documenting the proj ect's consistency with the goals of the City's General Plan and the requirements set forth in the mitigation monitoring and reporting program; and b. The proposed General Plan Amendment 10-002 is in compliance with Section 65358(b) of the Government Code in that the Land Use Element has been amended no more than four times in the current calendar year; and C. Based upon the testimony and other evidence, if any, received at the public hearing, and upon studies and investigations made by the Planning Commission, the Planning Commission further finds and determines that this proposal is consistent with the City's General Plan. SECTION 4. The City Council hereby approves Master Case 10-128; General Plan Amendment 10-002 in the City of Santa Clarita. SECTION 5. 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. R :1 PASSED AND APPROVED this 14th day of June, 2011. MA OR A/ /I ATTEST: i ACTING C ERK DATE: C v STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )ss. CITY OF SANTA CLARITA ) I, Kevin Tonoian, Acting 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 14th day of June, 2011 by the following vote, to wit: AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Ferry, Kellar, Ender, McLean NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None RECUSED: COUNCILMEMBERS: Weste VA STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss. CITY OF SANTA CLARITA ) CERTIFICATION OF CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION I, , City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of the original Resolution 11-61 adopted by the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita, California on June 14, 2011, which is now on file in my office. Witness my hand and seal of the City of Santa Clarita, California, this day of 2011. City Clerk By Deputy City Clerk E'3 EXHIBIT A GENERAL PLAN (Compact Disc) INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE EXHIBIT B LAND USE MAP INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE SCANNED OCT 19 2011 ..,, ANNED to AU 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation CIRCULATION ELEMENT DRAFT MAY, 2011 PART 1: BACKGROUND AND CIRCULATION ISSUES A. Purpose and Intent of the Circulation Element The Santa Clarita Valley's circulation system provides vital connections linking neighborhoods, services, and employment centers throughout the community and the region. A comprehensive transportation network of roadways, multi -use trails and bike paths, bus transit, and commuter rail provides mobility options to Valley residents and businesses. Planning for the ultimate location and capacity of circulation improvements will also enhance economic strength and quality of life in the Valley. The Circulation Element plans for the continued development of efficient, cost-effective and comprehensive transportation systems that are consistent with regional plans, local needs, and the Valley's community character. The Circulation Element complements and supports the Land Use Element, insofar as a cohesive land use pattern cannot be achieved without adequate circulation. The Circulation Element identifies and promotes a variety of techniques for improving mobility that go beyond planning for construction of new streets and highways. These techniques include: development of alternative travel modes and support facilities; increased efficiency and capacity of existing systems through management strategies; and coordination of land use planning with transportation planning by promoting concentrated, mixed -use development near transit facilities. B. Background The California Government Code describes conditions and data that must be researched, analyzed, and discussed in a Circulation Element. Section 65302(b) states that the general plan shall include the general location and extent of existing and proposed major thoroughfares, transportation routes, terminals and other local public utilities and facilities. The City and County are also required to coordinate the Circulation Element provisions with regional transportation plans, as set forth in Government Code Sections 65103(f) and 65080. Regional plans affecting the Santa Clarita Valley include those of the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans); the Regional Mobility Plan prepared by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG); the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority's (MTA or Metro) Congestion Management Program and bikeway strategic plan; Santa Clarita Transit's Transportation Development Plan (TDP); and Los Angeles County's Airport Land Use Plan. The Circulation Element has been developed in conformance with these regional transportation programs. The proposed street and highway network is based on projected development permitted by the Land Use Element. Policies have been included requiring coordination of land use and circulation planning in order to reduce vehicle trips by mixing land uses, locating higher densities within proximity of public transit, and providing greater access and connectivity for non -motorized travel modes. In addition, implementation of the Circulation Element will assist the City and County in achieving their land use goals for job creation, because the economic viability of new commercial and industrial development throughout the Valley will be improved with better access. The Circulation Element is also consistent with other elements of the General Plan and Area Plan. Projected noise levels as contained in the Noise Element are C-1 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan based upon traffic volumes estimated for the Circulation Element. By planning for a smooth - flowing transportation system, the potential of shorter trip lengths, and alternative travel modes, the Circulation Element encourages reduction of vehicle emissions as envisioned by the Conservation and Open Space Element. Trails and bikeways are addressed in the Circulation Element as well as in the Conservation and Open Space Element. Policies to ensure that the circulation system is safe, such as provision of emergency access and maintenance of evacuation routes, are consistent with provisions of the Safety Element. The provision of an adequate circulation system to support and encourage commercial and industrial development is consistent with the Economic Development Element. Finally, the provision of an adequate circulation system to support residential development is consistent with the Housing Element. The Circulation Element has been developed based on analysis of existing conditions in the Valley, future development in both City and County areas, and anticipated growth. A variety of data were used to quantify and characterize existing and future projected traffic volumes and conditions along roadway links and at key intersections. A traffic model was developed to distribute and analyze projected trips based on development projections. Based on this information, recommendations were formulated for the roadway designations shown on the Circulation Map, and for goals, policies and programs included in the Circulation Element. C. Fundamental Concepts for Circulation Planning To provide greater clarity on circulation issues and needs affecting the street and highway system, several key terms are discussed in this section. Access and Mobility The Valley's system of streets and highways consists of a range of transportation facilities that serve two basic functions for motorists: mobility and land access. Mobility means providing the facilities for motorists to travel between points of activity, and access means providing for entrance and egress to a particular land parcel or development site at the final destination. A circulation network is composed of facilities that emphasize the mobility or access functions to different degrees. For example, freeways provide limited access but good mobility between access points, while local neighborhood streets provide access to every residence but a low degree of mobility, due to slow speeds and frequent stops. The streets and highways in the Valley have been classified as follows, based on differing degrees of mobility and access: • Freeways. Freeways provide mobility with very limited access. Generally, federal guidelines call for at least one mile of separation between freeway access ramps. Within the Santa Clarita Valley, Interstate 5 (1-5, or the Golden State Freeway) and State Route 14 (SR-14, or the Antelope Valley Freeway) are classified as freeways; both are under the jurisdiction of Caltrans for maintenance and traffic control. DRAFT May 2011 C-2 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Expressways. Expressways refer to State routes that provide a high degree of mobility and limited access, but do not meet the design standards for freeways. Access to expressways can be either by grade separated crossings or by at -grade intersections and state guidelines call for at least one mile of separation between signalized intersections. Within the planning area, State Route 126 west of 1-5 is classified as an expressway. Arterial streets (Highways). Arterials provide a high degree of mobility as major traffic carriers with access to collectors and some local streets. These roadways are referred to as Highways in the County Highway Plan, a component of the Countywide General Plan, and in the City of Santa Clarita General Plan. Arterials are typically the widest streets in terms of right-of-way and pavement width, and they generally have the highest speed limits. Arterials may be further classified as major or secondary, based on their width and capacity. • Collector streets. Collectors connect local streets with arterials and also provide access to adjacent land uses, thus balancing mobility with access. While a collector street is not as wide as an arterial, it is often wider than local streets in terms of right-of-way and lane width. Local streets. Local streets are intended to provide access to adjacent land uses exclusively, and are not designed or intended to carry through -traffic or allow for high speeds. Typically, residential streets within neighborhoods are designed as local streets. Roadway systems are designed with different types of streets to balance mobility and access needs in an efficient manner. The different functions of various roadways require specific methods of analysis and design, because each street type must meet different traffic capacity and access requirements. While it might be considered desirable to provide both access and mobility on all roadways, most residents would not like their local neighborhood streets to be designed to carry large volumes of through traffic. Conversely, congestion problems occur when a street designed to provide mobility is expected to provide for access as well. Local streets typically require numerous driveways to move vehicles off the street and onto adjacent properties. When too many access points are provided on a street intended for mobility, friction and conflicts occur between those vehicles needing access and other vehicles using the facility for mobility. Therefore, the designation of streets for different uses has both a functional and economic value, and must be considered in developing a viable circulation plan. Capacity and Connectivity In evaluating and planning for a functional circulation system, both capacity and connectivity must also be considered. Capacity refers to the ability of the street system, including roadways and intersections, to adequately serve the traffic demand. It is a measure of how well the mobility needs of the Valley are met. Connectivity is defined as a measure of how well various parts of the Valley are linked, and how easy it is to move between different parts of the Valley. A poorly connected transportation system can make even nearby destinations functionally far apart. Conversely, a well-connected system can ease travel between destinations by shortening on -the -ground distances. The street arrangement with the greatest connectivity is a grid pattern, which provides many intersections and routes. Subdivision patterns that contain C-3 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan numerous cul-de-sacs and looped streets provide low connectivity, increasing dependence on the automobile to reach destinations that may be relatively nearby "as the crow flies." One of the defining features of urban sprawl is lack of connectivity, which requires more driving time to reach destinations. Within the Santa Clarita Valley, connectivity of the street network is interrupted by topographic constraints, including rolling terrain, canyons, and the Santa Clara River. In addition, the prevalent subdivision pattern, comprised of local cul-de-sac streets with limited connectivity, acts to funnel all traffic onto collector and arterial streets. As a result, regional traffic is concentrated on a limited number of arterial streets. Projects such as completion of the Via Princessa gap closure, and plans to create a new north -south connection through the center of the Valley (Santa Clarita Parkway), are examples of projects intended to increase connectivity. The capacity of a roadway is affected by several factors, including the street's width, the number of cross streets, the amount of green time given to the street at each signal (signal timing), the presence or absence of on -street parking, the number of turn lanes at each intersection, and the number of driveways. Intersection capacity depends on the lane configuration, meaning the number of through lanes and turn lanes, their width and alignment, and the signal timing. Daily capacity analysis is a general measure of a street's ability to carry traffic; this indicator is typically used to identify roadways which are nearing or exceeding their capacity, and which should be the subject of further peak hour analysis. Traffic operations are usually described by a roadway's or intersection's level of service during peak traffic hours. Planners and traffic engineers are faced with competing demands when designing street patterns. In order to increase traffic flow and reduce congestion, they need to increase roadway capacity and limit access; however, in order to increase connectivity and public safety, they need to slow traffic down to allow for turn movements, bikeways, and pedestrian crossings. The design solutions to these challenges are complex, but many potential problems can be solved by creating mixed -use communities that provide alternative travel modes between homes, employment, schools, shopping, and services. Level of Service The level of service (LOS) designation of a roadway or intersection indicates whether the capacity is adequate to handle the volume of traffic using the facility. The LOS provided by street segments and intersections are dependent upon traffic volumes, number of lanes, whether the roadway is divided, the number of access points (driveways and cross streets) along the roadway, and the lane configuration at intersections. LOS is a term used to describe prevailing conditions and their effect on traffic. It is a qualitative measure which describes operational conditions within a traffic stream, generally in terms of such factors as travel speed, travel time, traffic interruptions, freedom to maneuver, safety, driving comfort, and convenience. The LOS is represented alphabetically, with LOS A representing the least impacted roadway, and LOS E representing a roadway operating at the maximum capacity. LOS F represents long queues of traffic and unstable flows, and is generally considered to be unsatisfactory (see Table C-1). Although level of service is an important factor in transportation planning, it is not the only or even the most important criterion used in all cases. Depending on the area being planned, other factors may be considered as having priority over expedited movement of vehicles. For example, in pedestrian -oriented commercial areas, high-speed vehicle movements could be DRAFT May 2011 C-4 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation detrimental to the desired character of development, and traffic -calming measures may be used to slow vehicle speeds. In all portions of the planning area, traffic LOS must be weighed against other community priorities such as quality of life and environmental resource protection, in order to achieve a balanced approach to transportation and land use planning. Peak Hour and Average Daily Traffic Volumes Average Daily Traffic (ADT) is a measurement of the average number of vehicles that travel a segment of roadway during a 24-hour period. The ADT is a useful benchmark for determining roadway capacities, and is typically used for long-range planning analysis. Peak hour information, which is the highest volume of traffic to pass over a road in a one -hour period, allows for a more detailed method of evaluating traffic conditions along roadways and intersections, and is used whenever operational analysis is required. Table C-1: Level of Service Standards for Urban Streets Level of Service Description of Traffic Conditions (LOS) LOS "A" describes primarily free -flow operations at average travel speeds, usually about 90 percent of the Free Flow Speed (FFS) for A the given street class. Vehicles are completely unimpeded in their ability to maneuver within the traffic stream. Control delay at signalized intersections is normal. LOS "B" describes reasonably unimpeded operations at average travel speeds, usually about 70 percent of the FFS for the street B class. Vehicles are completely unimpeded in their ability to maneuver with the traffic stream. Control delay at signalized intersections is minimal. LOS "C" describes stable operations; however, ability to maneuver and change lanes in midblock locations may be more restricted that C at LOS "B," and longer queues, adverse signal coordination, or both may contribute to lower average travel speeds of about 50 percent of the FFS for the street class. LOS "D" borders on a range in which small increases in flow may cause substantial increases in delay and decreases in travel speed. D LOS "D" may be due to adverse signal progression, inappropriate signal timing, high volumes, or a combination of these factors. Average travelspeeds are about 40 percent of FFS. LOS "E" is characterized by significant delays and average travel speeds of 33 percent or less of the FFS. Such operations are E caused by a combination of adverse progression, high signal density, high volumes, extensive delays at critical intersections, and inappropriate signal timing. LOS "F" is characterized by urban street flow at extremely low F speeds, typically one-third to one-fourth of the FFS. Intersection congestion is likely at critical signalized locations, with high delays, high volumes, and extensive queuing. C-5 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Intersection Caaacit The level of service along urban streets is typically dependent on the quality of traffic flow at the intersections along that roadway. Usually bottlenecks and delays start at intersections rather than on the roadway between them. Level of service at intersections is based on factors such as delay time or volume to capacity ratios, with specific methods of analysis utilized for signalized and un-signalized intersections. Air Quality and Safety Issues In addition to vehicular mobility and access issues, the Circulation Element addresses broader issues of public health and safety as they relate to the circulation network. The greatest source of air pollutants in the Valley is generated from transportation (mobile sources). Because of its geographical location and meteorological conditions, the Santa Clarita Valley records some of the highest ozone readings in the South Coast Air Basin. Although ozone concentrations are generated largely from pollutants transported from outside the Valley, locally generated air pollutants are also an issue for Valley residents due to increased automobile traffic associated with growth. Localized carbon monoxide concentrations are found at congested intersections, especially in winter. Concentrations of fine airborne particulates also result from locally generated emissions, such as increased truck traffic. Land use patterns and the density of development directly affect the amount of air pollution that is generated from mobile sources within a community. Land uses that are segregated increase the number of motor vehicle trips and associated air pollutant emissions, because it is inconvenient or impossible to walk or bicycle between destinations or public transit is not available. Communities in which the ratio of jobs to housing units is not balanced result in additional vehicle miles traveled by commuters who must drive to employment centers. When communities are designed to mix residential with commercial, business, and employment uses, the trip length and frequency of motor vehicle use can be reduced. Goals and policies included the Land Use, Conservation, and Circulation Elements have been coordinated to address the related issues of traffic, land use patterns, and air quality. A recent book on the impacts of urban sprawl highlights the enormous toll that automobile accidents and pedestrian fatalities take on public health, stating that "Automobiles claim more than 40,000 lives each year in the United States. Automobile crashes are the leading cause of death among people from one year to 24 years old, cause about 3.4 million nonfatal injuries each year, and cost an estimated $200 billion annually."' Designing a roadway system that protects public safety is of paramount importance, and this issue is addressed in the goals and policies of the Circulation Element. The issue of safety for bicyclists and pedestrians is also a primary concern for developing a healthy and safe circulation system for the Valley, and the maps and policies of the Circulation Element have been prepared to address safe pedestrian routes and bikeways. ' Frumkin, Howard, Lawrence Frank, Richard Jackson. Urban Sprawl and Public Health: Designing, Planning and Building for Healthy Communities. Washington, Island Press, 2005, page 110. DRAFT May 2011 C-6 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation D. Congestion Management Program The Congestion Management Program (CMP) was enacted by the California Legislature in 1989 to improve traffic congestion in urban areas. The program became effective with the passage of Proposition 111 in 1990, which also increased the State gas tax. Funds generated by Proposition 111 are available to cities and counties for regional road improvements, provided these agencies are in compliance with CMP requirements. The intent of the legislation was to link transportation, land use, and air quality decisions by addressing the impact of local growth on the regional transportation system. State statute requires that a congestion management program be developed, adopted, and updated biennially for every county that includes an urbanized area, which shall include every city and county government within that county. Therefore, the City of Santa Clarita and County of Los Angeles must comply with CMP requirements in developing a circulation plan for the Santa Clarita Valley. Under the legislation, regional agencies are designated within each county to prepare and administer the Congestion Management Program for agencies within that county. Each local planning agency included in the CMP has the following responsibilities: • Assisting in monitoring the roadways designated within the CMP system; • Adopting and implementing a trip reduction and travel demand ordinance; • Analyzing the impacts of local land use decisions on the regional transportation system; and • Preparing annual deficiency plans for portions of the CMP system where level of service standards are not maintained. In Los Angeles County, the CMP agency is the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA or Metro). Metro has the responsibility to review compliance with the CMP by agencies under its jurisdiction. For any agency out of compliance, after receiving notice and after a correction period, a portion of state gas tax funds may be withheld if compliance is not achieved. In addition, compliance with the CMP is necessary to preserve eligibility for state and federal funding for transportation projects. Metro adopted the County's first Congestion Management Program in 1992, and completed its most recent update in 2004. The statute requires that all state highways and principal arterials be included within the CMP roadway system. Within the Santa Clarita Valley, the following roadways are designated as CMP roadways: • Interstate 5 (Golden State Freeway); • State Route 14 (Antelope Valley Freeway); • Sierra Highway from Newhall Avenue (formerly San Fernando Road) to State Route 14 at Red Rover Mine Road; • Magic Mountain Parkway from Interstate 5 to Railroad Avenue (formerly San Fernando Road); C-7 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan • Railroad Avenue/Newhall Avenue (formerly San Fernando Road) from Magic Mountain Parkway to State Route 14; and • State Route 126 west of I nterstate 5. The 2004 CMP noted that both Interstate 5 and the Antelope Valley Freeway within the planning area demonstrate traditional commute patterns, with congestion flowing into Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley in the morning and a reverse flow in the afternoon. The CMP indicates that all CMP roadways in the Santa Clarita Valley except SR-14 operate at a level of service D or better during a.m. and p.m. peak hours. Portions of the Antelope Valley Freeway are reported to operate at LOS E during a.m. and p.m. peak hours. However, the 2004 CMP indicates that both Interstate 5 and SR-14 traffic conditions have improved since the first CMP was completed in 1991, due to the completion of widening projects on these routes. Preparation of a General Plan update constitutes a project that must be evaluated for CMP compliance. If a new General Plan is found to further impact traffic conditions on CMP roadways, mitigations may be required. The Los Angeles County CMP allows a local jurisdiction to define acceptable levels of service up to LOS E. The 2004 CMP adopted by Metro found that, while 46 of the County's cities experienced very limited growth in the planning period, most of the County's growth has occurred in 10 jurisdictions, of which the Santa Clarita Valley is ranked fourth in terms of growth. Sixteen percent of the county's growth occurred in the San Fernando Valley and North County areas, including residential, commercial, and office growth sectors. Various strategies are available to local jurisdictions to mitigate CMP traffic impacts, including constructing new roadway improvements, managing traffic flow through signal improvements and trip reduction measures, and land use strategies such as locating higher density uses in proximity to public transit. The 2004 CMP found that only three percent of the total mobility benefit throughout the County was a result of land use measures used by local agencies. In the Santa Clarita Valley, the City and County have an opportunity, with the One Valley One Visiion (OVOV) planning effort to increase the coordination of land use planning with transportation improvements in order to increase mobility benefits. The traffic analysis conducted for the OVOV planning effort addressed these issues, and its conclusions are presented in the traffic report. Based on the traffic model, all roadway segments within the planning area that are designated as CMP roadways will operate at LOS E or better at buildout of the City's General Plan and the County's Area Plan. Therefore, the Circulation Element is consistent with the Congestion Management Plan, as required by State law. E. Existing Roadway System within the Santa Clarita Valley Regional Access Regional access to the Santa Clarita Valley is provided by two primary freeway corridors: Interstate 5 (1-5, or the Golden State Freeway) traverses the planning area in a northwesterly direction and is delineated with eight travel lanes; and State Route 14 (SR-14, or the Antelope Valley Freeway) traverses the planning area in a northeasterly direction and accommodates between four and 10 travel lanes. 1-5 provides an important link between the southern and northern portions of the United States, and also serves as a vital link for commuter traffic DRAFT May 2011 C-8 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation between Santa Clarita communities and Los Angeles. SR-14 is also used by a significant amount of commuter traffic, as well as providing a regional link between the Los Angeles basin and the high desert communities of Palmdale and Lancaster. 1-5 and SR-14 converge in the Newhall Pass, located south of the southerly planning area boundary. Newhall Pass has traditionally been one of the most congested regional corridors in Southern California and is in need of additional capacity improvements. Secondary regional access is provided to motorists in the western portion of the planning area via State Route 126 (SR-126), which extends from the City of Ventura east to 1-5. East of 1-5, SR-126 was once designated along portions of Magic Mountain Parkway and San Fernando Road (now known as Railroad Avenue and Newhall Avenue) between 1-5 and SR-14; however, these roadways were turned over to the City in 2002 and no longer serve as a State highway alignment. Streets and Highways Streets and highways within the planning area have been classified into the following categories, based on their function and design: Major Highways are arterials with at least six travel lanes for high mobility, designed with limited vehicular access to driveways and cross streets. The typical road section includes a raised landscaped median with left turn pockets at intersections. When fully improved and operating at LOS E, major highways can accommodate approximately 54,000 vehicles per day. Street sections may include striped, on -street bike lanes or separated bike paths. Secondary Highways are arterials with an ultimate design section of four travel lanes, designed for high mobility and with limited vehicular access from driveways and cross streets. The typical road section includes a median with left turn pockets provided at intersections. Secondary highways are designed to service both through traffic, and to collect traffic from collector and local streets. When fully improved and operating at LOS E, secondary highways can accommodate approximately 36,000 vehicles per day. Limited Secondary Highways are arterials with more limited mobility and greater access, with an ultimate roadway design section of two travel lanes and with partial control of vehicular and pedestrian access to the roadway from driveways, cross streets, and crosswalks. The roadway is usually undivided and may accommodate limited parking activity and left turn pockets at major intersections. These streets are designed to accommodate moderate volumes of traffic and provide local access to major and secondary highways. When fully improved and operating at LOS E, these streets can accommodate approximately 18,000 vehicles per day. Collector Streets are roadways which have an ultimate roadway design section of two travel lanes with limited vehicular access to the roadway from driveways and cross streets. The roadway is usually undivided and does not always accommodate left turn pockets at intersections. Collector streets are designed to provide both access and limited mobility, servicing local traffic from residential, commercial, and industrial uses and providing access to the arterial roadway system. Collector streets are not depicted on the adopted Highway Plan. When fully improved and operating at LOS E, collectors can accommodate approximately 15,000 vehicles per day. C-9 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan • Local streets are streets designed for full access and limited mobility, and may include residential streets, private streets, service roads, and public alleys. For the purposes of circulation planning at the General Plan level, local streets are not included on the adopted Highway Plan. However, policies have been included in the Circulation Element to ensure that local streets contribute to healthy, safe neighborhoods. Arterial Highways and Collectors in the Santa Clarita Valley Arterial highways traversing the Santa Clarita Valley provide connections between communities and to outlying areas. Bouquet Canyon Road connects the Santa Clarita Valley to the Antelope Valley through the Angeles National Forest. Sierra Highway, which generally parallels the SR- 14 corridor, also provides connection to the Antelope Valley as well as a non -freeway connection between the Santa Clarita Valley and the Los Angeles Basin, through the Newhall Pass. The combination of Valencia Boulevard and Soledad Canyon Road currently provides the primary east -west connection between 1-5 and SR-14 through the Santa Clarita Valley. Soledad Canyon Road also provides the primary non -freeway connection between the City of Santa Clarita and the communities of Agua Dulce and Acton. Escondido Canyon Road, Crown Valley Road, and Santiago Road also serve the Acton community and provide north -south connections between Soledad Canyon Road and SR-14. Agua Dulce Canyon Road, which connects Soledad Canyon Road to Sierra Highway, is the main north -south facility in the Agua Dulce community. Escondido Canyon Road, running east and west, also connects the communities of Acton and Agua Dulce. Other canyon routes connect the Santa Clarita Valley to the Antelope Valley, including Lake Hughes Road and San Francisquito Canyon Road. Sand Canyon Road and Placerita Canyon Road connect the Santa Clarita Valley to the northeast San Fernando Valley communities of Sunland and Tujunga, via their connection with Little Tujunga Road through the Angeles National Forest. The City recently renamed San Fernando Road as Railroad Avenue between Magic Mountain Parkway and Lyons Avenue. Between Lyons Avenue and Newhall Avenue, through downtown Newhall, San Fernando Road was renamed as Main Street. Between Newhall Avenue and its terminus at SR-14, San Fernando Road was renamed to Newhall Avenue and was restriped to increase roadway capacity from four lanes to six, which significantly improved traffic circulation through the intersection at Newhall Avenue and Sierra Highway. In downtown Newhall, between Lyons Avenue and Pine Street, Main Street was restriped from four travel lanes to two lanes with on -street parking as part of the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan improvements in 2007. To accommodate north -south through traffic in this area, Railroad Avenue in downtown Newhall was expanded to accommodate four travel lanes. Other major new roadways, planned to increase both connectivity and capacity of the arterial system, were included in the prior Circulation Element and are also included in this update, including the following arterial roadway segments: The Via Princessa gap closure between its current westerly terminus near Oak Ridge Drive and its current easterly terminus near Isabella Parkway; The extension of Magic Mountain Parkway from the intersection of Bouquet Canyon Road/Railroad Avenue south to Via Princessa; Santa Clarita Parkway, a new north -south arterial that extends from SR-14 at Placerita Canyon Road to Bouquet Canyon Road; DRAFT May 2011 C-10 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation • Long Canyon Road, a new north -south arterial in the west side of the valley, extends from SR-126 to a westerly extension of Valencia Boulevard; • Dockweiler Drive from Railroad Avenue to Sierra Highway; and A complete list of planned new roadways and roadway extensions as depicted in the Highway Plan is provided in Table C-3. Based on existing conditions traffic data collected for approximately 100 selected major segments of County and City roadway network throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, all links studied are currently operating at LOS E or better except for the following: • Soledad Canyon Road between Bouquet Canyon Road and Commuter Way; • Whites Canyon Road between Soledad Canyon Road and Pleasantdale Street; • Lyons Avenue between Orchard Village Road and Newhall Avenue; and • Newhall Avenue between Lyons Avenue and Main Street. The existing deficiencies noted above are being addressed by this Circulation Element update through a combination of measures, such as the completion of future roadways as identified in the Highway Plan, development of alternative travel modes and support facilities, increased efficiency of existing systems through management strategies, and coordination of land use planning with transportation planning by promoting concentrated, mixed -use development near transit facilities. The traffic model developed for the One Valley One Vision (OVOV) planning effort was used to evaluate projected traffic conditions for both the existing and proposed City General Plan and County Area Plan Circulation Elements at build -out of the land uses envisioned by both documents. This analysis concluded that build -out under the existing City General Plan and County Area Plan Circulation Elements and Land Use Elements would result in worse traffic congestion than under the City General Plan and County Area Plan Circulation Elements developed through the OVOV planning effort, because more roadway segments would operate at unacceptable levels of service under the prior plans than under the updated plans. Further information on this analysis is contained in the traffic study. Cross -Valley Connector In order to provide greater connectivity and capacity for east -west traffic across the Santa Clarita Valley, the City and County have worked in partnership to complete the Cross -Valley Connector. This 8.5-mile system of arterial road, bridges, and intersections provides a seamless connection between Newhall Ranch Road and Golden Valley Road, and a direct connection between the I-5/SR-126 junction and the SR-14/Golden Valley Road interchange. In addition to serving auto and truck traffic in the Valley with an ultimate width of six to eight travel lanes, the Cross -Valley Connector was designed to include a Class 1 bike path adjacent to the roadway and a landscaped median. The Cross -Valley Connector is projected to substantially reduce traffic volumes on Soledad Canyon Road and other major arterials in the City once completed to ultimate width. C-11 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Maior Roadwav Improvements Recently Completed or Underwa The construction for the Cross Valley Connector was the "gap closure", construction of a one - mile segment linking 1-5/SR-126 with Copper Hill Drive/Rye Canyon Road. Completed in 2007, this portion of the roadway provides multi -modal access to the area's largest employment centers (1,000 companies and 50,000jobs). In a cooperative effort between Newhall Land, Caltrans, Metro, the County and the City, expansion of the interchange of 1-5 and Magic Mountain Parkway began in 2007 and is was completed in 2009. The project reduced traffic congestion by widening the freeway on- and off - ramps and Magic Mountain Parkway. The Hasley Canyon Road interchange at 1-5 was reconstructed in a cooperative effort between the County, Caltrans, Metro, and Newhall Land. Construction began in 2007 and is was completed in 2009. The project significantly improves traffic conditions at the interchange and includes constructing a new bridge over the 1-5 freeway, building modern roundabouts on the east and west sides of the freeway, and providing additional ramps for freeway access. Construction of new bridges along Sierra Highway over the railroad between Canyon Park Boulevard and Flying Tiger Drive was initiated in 2007 and completed in 2009. This project replaced the northbound bridge and rehabilitated the southbound bridge on Sierra Highway, and eliminated the gap between the two bridges. The new bridge will provide wider traffic lanes and shared lanes for bicycles and pedestrians. A new bridge over the Santa Clara River as part of the Cross -Valley Connector was completed in 2010. This bridge provides a seamless connection between Golden Valley Road and Newhall Ranch Road. Peak Hour Traffic Conditions The Santa Clarita Valley experiences typical suburban traffic patterns, which are characterized by traffic volumes that peak during the AM and PM commute periods. Based on existing conditions traffic data and traffic model forecast data for 23 key intersections within the Valley, the current AM and PM peak hour conditions will continue to worsen over time absent any changes to the current circulation system. This Circulation Element update addresses the existing and potential future deficiencies through a combination of land use and transportation planning, as noted in prior sections. Transportation Management System The City has completed the first stage of an Intelligent Transportation Management System (ITMS) project. Through the use of real-time video and other traffic -related information, ITMS interconnects 172 traffic signals to the Traffic Operation Center located at City Hall. There, City staff can adjust signal problems, minimize congestion and provide additional capacity on alternate routes in case of an accident or other incidents. Staff can quickly be alerted to situations that require the dispatch of a maintenance crew or law enforcement personnel. Subsequent stages of the project will increase the number of roadways and intersections included in the system, with the ultimate goal of including all signalized intersections within the Santa Clarita Valley. DRAFT May 2011 C-12 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation The County Department of Public Works is in the process of evaluating communications devices to enable traffic signals in the unincorporated areas of the Valley to be monitored and controlled from their Traffic Management Center in Alhambra. This traffic signal control system provides for continuous monitoring of conditions and will provide once -per -second monitoring of traffic signals. The system enables traffic signal timing to be controlled and coordinated from the Traffic Management Center. The County's Information Exchange Network (IEN) is an advanced traffic management system and network capable of sharing information and control of various traffic control systems and field devices between agencies. The IEN is currently being deployed Countywide and will improve regional traffic flow through the exchange of traffic signal data among multiple agencies. The County and City are currently connecting the City's traffic control system to the IEN, which will allow for a coordinated response to traffic congestion and incidents. In addition, the City and County have been implementing signal timing along major arterials, using signal synchronization to coordinate signals with each other in an effort to improve vehicle progression and reduce traffic congestion. The City retimes and synchronizes approximately one-third of its traffic signals every year, which means that all traffic signals are evaluated and retimed within a three-year period. Neighborhood Traffic Management As traffic volumes and congestion increase on arterial roadways, some drivers attempt to reduce travel times by traveling alternate routes using local neighborhood streets. This neighborhood intrusion by "cut -through" traffic has become a concern in some residential areas. The City takes action when necessary to minimize intrusion of regional cut -through traffic in residential neighborhoods through traffic management and traffic calming strategies, including the use of circles, chokers, and diverters. The County has an established neighborhood traffic management program to make neighborhoods safer for pedestrians, bicyclists, residents and the motoring public. Street Maintenance The City Public Works Department currently manages a $5 million annual program for overlay and slurry -seal of streets. Approximately seven miles of street pavement per year is maintained under this program. Private streets are required to be maintained by property owners or homeowners associations. Some portions of the planning area require additional street maintenance due to substandard street sections. In particular, older and more rural canyon areas were developed with substandard streets and lack curbs and gutters for drainage, and sidewalks. As a result, stormwater runoff undermines the pavement, and maintenance costs are increased. Road improvements will be required to upgrade street systems in these areas. C-13 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan F. Methodology for Traffic Analysis The following steps were followed in developing the roadway component of the Circulation Element: 1. Documentation of existing conditions and assembling the data base; 2. Update of the City/County traffic model for the Santa Clarita Valley used to forecast future usage of existing and planned circulation routes; 3. Identification of problems, opportunities and issues on the roadway network; 4. Testing and evaluation of alternative improvement plans; and 5. Selection and refinement of the recommended circulation plan. The Santa Clarita Valley's existing roadway network is illustrated on Exhibit C-1. Average daily traffic volumes for arterials within the Valley were obtained through traffic counts, to assess existing levels of service. Both capacity and connectivity of the network were evaluated. The traffic engineers utilized a computerized traffic demand model, the Santa Clarita Valley Consolidated Traffic Model (SCVCTM), which is jointly maintained by the City of Santa Clarita and the County of Los Angeles, to analyze the roadway system and develop a circulation plan. For modeling purposes, the planning area is divided into 455 traffic analysis zones (TAZ's). The model used a software program comparable to the regional modeling done by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) and the County's Congestion Management Program, in order to assure consistency with regional plans. Traffic analysis with a traffic demand model involves four general steps: 1) specification of the roadway network; 2) calculation of vehicle trip generation amounts for uses within each TAZ; 3) distribution of these vehicle trips to destination points; and 4) assignment of vehicle trips to specific roadway segments. Based on this analysis, the model indicates whether planned roadway widths will be adequate to handle projected traffic volumes, and where capacity problems will occur. The process requires a model that has been calibrated to existing conditions, and the SCVCTM underwent a comprehensive update and recalibration in 2004. With this calibrated model, the traffic engineers performed several different model runs based on various assumptions. The model was run to predict traffic volumes at build -out of the land uses permitted by the City and County's Land Use Element. Based on the traffic model analysis, the traffic engineers identified several needed improvements to the street and highway system. Traffic issues identified through the public input process were also considered and evaluated. These traffic issues and needs have been addressed in the Circulation Plan and the goals and policies section of the element. Once the traffic model was completed and run, it became necessary to make certain adjustments to the Land Use Plan and the road network to achieve acceptable levels of service at General Plan build -out for most roadways. In some cases, adjustments were made to the ultimate right-of-way for specific roadway links. The final recommended Highway Plan is shown on Exhibit C-2, and is discussed in further detail in Section G. DRAFT May 2011 C-14 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation G. Recommendations for Street and Highway System Level of Service Standard The Countywide General Plan does not specify an acceptable level of service for the purpose of long-range planning; however, in conformance with the Congestion Management Program, the preferred maximum acceptable level of service on arterial roads (i.e., major, secondary, and limited secondary highways) within the planning area is LOS E. The City strives to achieve LOS D or better on highways to the extent feasible given right-of-way and physical constraints, while recognizing that in higher density urban areas there is generally a tradeoff between vehicle LOS and other factors such as pedestrian mobility; therefore, a Level of Service F may be necessary at limited locations to implement the General Plan. In residential neighborhoods, the City and County desire conditions of LOS C or better. C-15 DRAFT May, 2011 J x $ W F � y Q u z 3� w fm J ;...■...,.... W 2 W az ' V i ■ ■ i ■ ■ s ■ F r J W ■ W Q p O ■ LL Q c ' i d ' V) J ' F u a4esn �u ] b us s 5 6 F °gas 0-4A+PNsPbPPOYXWgN 4.M10{O'iY18Y W815■fL�trl d.4 u OPM LU LLJ 0 < z 14 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 o o Ills, 0 04 LL Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Revised Roadway Designations Designations of the following roadway segments were recommended to be reclassified as a result of the traffic analysis: 1. Lake Hughes Road from Ridge Route Road to Angeles National Forest Boundary — Reclassify from a major highway to a limited secondary highway. 2. Vasquez Canyon Road from Bouquet Canyon Road to Sierra Highway — Reclassify from a secondary highway to a limited secondary highway. 3. Sand Canyon Road from the Northern Santa Clarita City boundary to Sierra Highway — Reclassify from a major highway to a secondary highway along existing alignment. 4. Shadow Pines Boulevard/Tick Canyon Road from Grandifloras Road to Davenport Road — Reclassify from a secondary highway to a limited secondary highway. 5. Bouquet Canyon Road from Plum Canyon Road to Vasquez Canyon Road — Reclassify from a major highway to a secondary highway. 6. Skyline Ranch Road from Plum Canyon Road to Sierra Highway — Reclassify planned major highway to a limited secondary highway. 7. Valencia Boulevard/Potrero Canyon Road from the Newhall Ranch/Stevenson Ranch boundary to the planned Long Canyon Road — Reclassify planned secondary highway to a major highway. 8. Long Canyon Road from the planned Santa Clara River Bridge to the planned Valencia Boulevard/Potrero Canyon Road — Reclassify planned secondary highway to a major highway. 9. Pico Canyon Road from the Newhall Ranch/Stevenson Ranch boundary to Valencia Boulevard — Reclassify planned secondary highway to a major highway. 10. Jakes Way from Canyon Park Boulevard to the planned Lost Canyon Road extension — add classification for the existing roadway as a limited secondary highway. 11. McBean Parkway from Copper Hill Drive to San Francisquito Canyon Road — Reclassify planned secondary highway to a limited secondary highway. 12. San Fransisquito Canyon Road from the planned extension of McBean Parkway to the Angeles National Forest — Reclassify from a secondary highway to a limited secondary highway. 13. Lost Canyon Road from Jakes Way to Sand Canyon Road — Reclassify planned major highway to a secondary highway. The following roadway segments were recommended to be removed from the Highway Plan as a result of the traffic analysis: 1. 16th Street from Newhall Avenue to Railroad Avenue — Remove planned secondary highway. 2. Sloan Canyon Road from Hillcrest Parkway to Mandolin Canyon Road — Remove planned limited secondary highway. 3. Castaic Road from Parker Road to Newhall Ranch Road — Remove planned secondary highway. 4. Biscailuz Drive from The Old Road to the previously planned extension of Castaic Road — Remove planned secondary highway. 5. Landmark Village (VTTM 53108) Spine Road — Remove planned secondary highway. 6. "A" Street (Mallory Drive) from Poe Parkway to Valencia Boulevard — Remove planned secondary highway. 7. Poe Parkway from Stevenson Ranch Parkway to Valencia Boulevard — Remove secondary (existing and planned) highway. DRAFT May 2011 C-18 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation 8. Cruzan Mesa Road from Whites Canyon Road to Sierra Highway — Remove planned limited secondary highway. The following roadway alignments were recommended to be realigned as a result of the traffic analysis: 1. Sand Canyon Road from the Northern Santa Clarita City boundary to Sierra Highway — Realign planned secondary highway along the existing driven roadway. 2. Long Canyon Road/Potrero Canyon Road/Valencia Boulevard at planned intersection — Realign to make Long Canyon Road/Valencia Boulevard the continuous roadway. 3. Chiquito Canyon Road/Long Canyon Road at State Route 126 — Revise alignments to create a continuous north/south roadway. 4. Whites Canyon Road from Plum Canyon Road to Vasquez Canyon Road — Revise alignment to connect from Plum Canyon Road to Sierra Highway (as the proposed Skyline Ranch Road). Table C-2 indicates the designation of all General Plan roadways within the planning area. It should be noted that local and collector streets are not included on the Highway Plan, which contains only major and secondary highways, expressways, and parkways. Table C-2: Highway Plan Roadways in the Planning Area Roadway Classification Roadway Segments in Planning Area Expressways SR-126 Major Highways Avenue Scott (from Rye Canyon to Avenue Tibbitts) Avenue Tibbitts Bouquet Canyon Road (from Plum Canyon Road to Magic Mountain Parkway) Castaic Road (from Lake Hughes Road to Parker Road) Commerce Center Drive Copper Hill Drive (from Newhall Ranch Road to Seco Canyon Road) Golden Valley Road (from Newhall Ranch Road to SR-14 freeway) Hasley Canyon Road (from Commerce Center Drive to 1-5 freeway) Lake Hughes Road (from The Old Road to Ridge Route Road) Long Canyon Road (from SR-126 to Valencia Boulevard) Lost Canyon Road (from Jakes Way to Via Princessa) Lyons Avenue Magic Mountain Parkway (from Commerce Center Drive to Via Princessa) McBean Parkway (from 1-5 freeway to Copper Hill Drive) Newhall Avenue (from Railroad Avenue to SR-14 freeway) Newhall Ranch Road Orchard Village Road Parker Road (from The Old Road to Castaic Road) Pico Canyon Road Plum Canyon Road Railroad Avenue (from Magic Mountain Parkway to Lyons Avenue) Rye Canyon Road Sand Canyon Road from Soledad Canyon Road to Lost Canyon Road C-19 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Roadway Classification Roadway Segments in Planning Area Santa Clarita Parkway (from Bouquet Canyon Road to Sierra Highway) Sierra Highway Soledad Canyon Road Stevenson Ranch Parkway The Old Road (from Hasley Canyon Road to Lyons Avenue) The Old Road (from Calgrove Boulevard to Sierra Highway) Valencia Boulevard Via Princessa (from Wiley Canyon Road to Lost Canyon Road) Whites Canyon Road Wiley Canyon Road (from Lyons Avenue to Via Princessa) Secondary 16th Street (from Orchard Village Road to Newhall Avenue) Highways Agua Dulce Canyon Road Avenue Scott (from Avenue Tibbitts to McBean Parkway) Bouquet Canyon Road (from Plum Canyon Road to Angeles National Forest boundary) Calgrove Boulevard Canyon Park Boulevard Copper Hill Drive (from Seco Canyon Road to Bouquet Canyon Road) Davenport Road Decoro Drive Dickason Drive Dockweiler Drive Escondido Canyon Road Golden Valley Road (from Newhall Ranch Road to Plum Canyon Road) Golden Valley Road (from SR-14 freeway to Via Princessa) Haskell Canyon Road (from Copper Hill Drive to Bouquet Canyon Road) Hasley Canyon Road (from Del Valle Road to Commerce Center Drive) Hillcrest Parkway Long Canyon Road (from Chiquito Canyon Road to SR-126) Lost Canyon Road (from Jakes Way to Sand Canyon Road) Magic Mountain Parkway (from Long Canyon Road to Commerce Center Drive) Newhall Avenue (from 16th Street to Railroad Avenue) Placerita Canyon Road (from Sierra Highway to Sand Canyon Road) Potrero Canyon Road Railroad Avenue (from Lyons Avenue to Newhall Avenue) Ridge Route Road (from approximately % mile north of Northlake Hills elementary school to Castaic Road) Rockwell Canyon Road Sand Canyon Road (from Sierra Highway to Soledad Canyon Road) Seco Canyon (from Copper Hill Drive to Bouquet Canyon Road) Shadow Pines Boulevard Sloan Canyon Road (from The Old Road to Quail Valley Road) The Old Road (from Oak Valley Road to Hasley Canyon Road) The Old Road (from Pico Canyon Road to Calgrove Boulevard) Tourney Road Valley Street DRAFT May 2011 C-20 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Roadway Classification Roadway Segments in Planning Area Via Princessa (from Lost Canyon Road to Golden Valley Road) Wiley Canyon Road (from Lyons Avenue to Calgrove Boulevard) Limited Secondary Bouquet Canyon (from Angeles National Forest Boundary to Elizabeth Highways Lake Road) Chiquito Canyon Road (from Del Valle Road to Long Canyon Road) Del Valle Road (from Chiquito Canyon Road to Hasley Canyon Road) Hasley Canyon Road (from Sloan Canyon Road to Del Valle Road) Jakes Way Lake Hughes Road (from Ridge Route Road to Pine Canyon Road) Lost Canyon Road (from Sand Canyon Road to Oak Springs Canyon Road) McBean Parkway (from San Francisquito Canyon Road to Copper Hill Drive) Ridge Route Road (from Templin Highway to approximately % mile north of Northlake Hills elementary school) San Francisquito Canyon Road (from McBean Parkway to Elizabeth Lake Road) Sand Canyon Road (from Lost Canyon Road to Little Tujunga Canyon Road) Seco Canyon (from Discovery Ridge Drive to Copper Hill Drive) Skyline Ranch Road Sloan Canyon Road (from Hillcrest Parkway to Hasley Canyon Road) Sloan Canyon Road (from Quail Valley Road to Tract 46443) Tick Canyon Road Tournament Road Vasquez Canyon Road Parkways Henry Mayo Drive (from Commerce Center Drive to The Old Road) A complete listing of the future roadway improvements needed to implement the recommended Highway Plan is provided in Table C-3. Table C-3: Roadway Improvements Needed For Build -Out of Highway Plan Roadway/Segment Improvement Comments Agua Dulce Canyon Road Between Sierra Highway and Widen roadway from 2 lanes Escondido Canyon Road to a 4 lane Secondary Highway Between Escondido Canyon Construct new 4 lane Gap closure segment Road and Davenport Road Secondary Highway Between Davenport Road and Widen roadway from 2 lanes Soledad Canyon Road to a 4 lane Secondary Highway Avenue Scott Between Rye Canyon Road Re -stripe roadway from 4 and Avenue Tibbitts lanes to 6 lanes C-21 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Roadway/Segment Improvement Comments Avenue Tibbitts Between Avenue Scott and Re -stripe roadway from 4 Avenue Hopkins lanes to 6 lanes Between Avenue Hopkins and Construct new 6 lane Major Includes new bridge over Magic Mountain Parkway Highway the Santa Clara River Bouquet Canyon Road Between Angeles National Widen roadway from 2 lanes Includes realignment in Forest and Plum Canyon to a 4 lane Secondary the Copper Hill Drive Road Highway area Between Plum Canyon and Re -stripe roadway from 4 Will lose the existing future Santa Clarita Parkway lanes to 6 lanes Class II bike lane due to re -striping Between future Santa Clarita Re -stripe roadway from 5 Will lose the existing Parkway and Seco Canyon lanes to 6 lanes Class II bike lane due to Road re -striping Between Seco Canyon Road Widen roadway from 6 lanes Includes bridge widening and Es uella Drive to an 8 lane Major Highway Between Soledad Canyon Re -stripe roadway from 4 Road and Magic Mountain lanes to 6 lanes Parkway Castaic Road Between Lake Hughes Road Re -stripe roadway from 4 and Ridge Route Road lanes to 6 lanes Commerce Center Drive Between Henry Mayo Drive Construct new 6 lane Major Includes new bridge over and Magic Mountain Parkway Highway the Santa Clara River Copper Hill Drive Between Avenida Rancho Re -stripe roadway from 4 Tesoro and San Francisquito lanes to 6 lanes Creek Bridge Between San Francisquito Widen roadway from 4 lanes Includes widening bridge Creek Bridge and McBean to a 6 lane Major Highway over the San Parkway Francisquito Creek Davenport Road Between Sierra Highway and Widen roadway from 2 lanes Agua Dulce Canyon Road to a 4 lane Secondary Highway Dockweiler Drive Between Railroad Avenue Construct new 4 lane and Leonard Tree Lane Secondary Highway Between Leonard Tree Lane Re -stripe roadway from 2 Will lose the existing on - and Sierra Highway lanes to 4 lanes street parking due to re - striping Escondido Canyon Road East of Agua Dulce Canyon Widen roadway from 2 lanes Road to a 4 lane Secondary Highway DRAFT May 2011 C-22 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Roadway/Segment Improvement Comments Golden Valley Road Between Plum Canyon Road Re -stripe roadway from 2 and Dorothy Street lanes to 4 lanes Between Dorothy Street and Construct new 4 lane Newhall Ranch Road Secondary Highway Between Newhall Ranch Construct new 6 lane Major Includes new bridge over Road and Valley Center Drive Highway the Santa Clara River Between Valley Center Drive Re -stripe roadway from 4 and Center Pointe Parkway lanes to 6 lanes Between Centre Pointe Widen roadway from 4 lanes Parkway and Sierra Highway to a 6 lane Major Highway Haskell Canyon Road Between Copper Hill Drive Re -stripe roadway from 2 and Grovepark lanes to 4 lanes Drive/Ridgegrove Drive Henry Mayo Drive Between Commerce Center Widen roadway from 2 lanes Drive and The Old Road to a 4 lane Parkway Lake Hughes Road Between 1-5 freeway and Re -stripe roadway from 4 Castaic Road lanes to 6 lanes Long Canyon Road (future) Between Chiquito Canyon Construct new 4 lane Road and SR-126 Secondary Highway Between SR-126 and Construct new 6 lane Major Includes new bridge over Valencia Boulevard Highway the Santa Clara River Lost Canyon Road Between Sand Canyon Road Widen roadway from 2 lanes and La Veda Avenue to a 4 lane Secondary Highway Between La Veda Avenue Construct new 4 lane and Jakes Way Secondary Highway Between Jakes Way and Construct new 6 lane Major railroad bridge Highway Between railroad bridge and Re -stripe roadway from 4 Via Princessa lanes to 6 lanes Lyons Avenue Between Wiley Canyon Road Re -stripe roadway from 4 Will lose the existing on - and Railroad Avenue lanes to 6 lanes street parking due to re - striping C-23 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Roadway/Segment Improvement Comments Magic Mountain Parkway Between Long Canyon Road Construct new 4 lane and Commerce Center Drive Secondary Highway Between Commerce Center Construct new 6 lane Major Drive and Westridge Highway Parkway Between Westridge Parkway Construct new 8 lane Major and Six Flags Magic Highway Mountain Between Six Flags Magic Widen roadway from 4 lanes Mountain and 1-5 freeway to an 8 lane Major Highway Between 1-5 freeway and Re -stripe roadway from 6 Auto Center Drive lanes to 8 lanes Between Auto Center Drive Widen roadway from 4 lanes and Valencia Boulevard to an 8 lane Major Highway Between Valencia Boulevard Re -stripe roadway from 4 and Railroad Avenue lanes to 6 lanes Between Railroad Avenue Construct new 6 lane Major and Via Princessa Highway McBean Parkway Between San Francisquito Construct new 2 lane Limited Canyon Road and Copper Secondary Highway Hill Drive Between Avenue Scott and Widen roadway from 6 lanes Includes widening bridge Creekside Road to an 8 lane Major Highway over the Santa Clara River Between Magic Mountain Re -stripe roadway from 7 Parkway and Valencia lanes to 8 lanes Newhall Ranch Road Between Avenue Tibbitts and Widen roadway from 6 lanes Includes widening bridge McBean Parkway to an 8 lane Major Highway over the San Francisquito Creek Between McBean Parkway Re -stripe roadway from 7 and Bouquet Canyon Road lanes to 8 lanes Between Bouquet Canyon Re -stripe roadway from 4 Road and Santa Clarita lanes to 6 lanes Parkway Between Santa Clarita Construct new 6 lane Major Parkway and Golden Valley Highway Road Newhall Avenue Between 16th Street and Re -stripe roadway from 2 Will lose the existing on - Railroad Avenue lanes to 4 lanes street parking due to re - striping DRAFT May 2011 C-24 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Roadway/Segment Improvement Comments The Old Road North of Lake Hughes Road Re -stripe roadway from 2 lanes to 4 lanes Between Lake Hughes Road Widen roadway from 2 lanes and Sedona Way to a 4 lane Secondary Highway Between Hasley Canyon Widen roadway from 4 lanes Road and 1-5 SB Ramps at to a 6 lane Major Highway Rye Canyon Road Between 1-5 SB Ramps at Re -stripe roadway from 4 Rye Canyon Road and Rye lanes to 6 lanes Canyon Road Between Rye Canyon Road Widen roadway from 4 lanes Includes widening bridge and Magic Mountain to a 6 lane Major Highway over the Santa Clara Parkway River Between McBean Parkway Re -stripe roadway from 4 and Lyons Avenue lanes to 6 lanes Between Sagecrest Circle Widen roadway from 2 lanes (South) and Calgrove to a 4 lane Secondary Boulevard Highway Between Calgrove Boulevard Widen roadway from 4 lanes and Sierra Highway to a 6 lane Major Highway Orchard Village Road Between McBean Parkway Widen roadway from 4 lanes and Lyons Avenue to a 6 lane Major Highway Parker Road Between The Old Road and Widen roadway from 2 lanes 1-5 freeway to a 6 lane Major Highway Pico Canyon Road Between Valencia Boulevard Construct new 6 lane Major and Whispering Oaks Road Highway Between Whispering Oaks Re -stripe roadway from 4 Road and 1-5 freeway lanes to 6 lanes Placerita Canyon Road Between SR-14 freeway and Widen roadway from 2 lanes Sand Canyon Road to a 4 lane Secondary Highway Plum Canyon Road Between Bouquet Canyon Re -stripe roadway from 4 Road and Golden Valley lanes to 6 lanes Road Potrero Canyon Road (future) Between SR-126 and Long Construct new 4 lane Includes new bridge over Canyon Road Secondary Highway the Santa Clara River Railroad Avenue Between Magic Mountain Re -stripe roadway from 4 Parkway and Lyons Avenue lanes to 6 lanes C-25 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Roadway/Segment Improvement Comments Ridge Route Road Between 1-5 freeway and Widen roadway from 2 lanes Castaic Road to a 6 lane Major Highway Sand Canyon Road Between Sierra Highway and Widen roadway from 2 lanes Soledad Canyon Road to a 4 lane Secondary Highway Between SR-14 freeway and Widen roadway from 2 lanes Includes widening bridge Lost Canyon Road to a 6 lane Major Highway over the Santa Clara River Santa Clarita Parkway (future) Between Bouquet Canyon Construct new 6 lane Major Includes new bridge over Road and Sierra Highway Highway the Santa Clara River Shadow Pines Blvd./Tick Canyon Rd. Between Grandifloras Road Construct new 2 lane Limited and Davenport Road Secondary Highway Sierra Highway East of Agua Dulce Canyon Widen roadway from 2 lanes Road to a 6 lane Major Highway Between Agua Dulce Widen roadway from 2 lanes Canyon Road and Vasquez to a 6 lane Major Highway Canyon Road Between Vasquez Canyon Widen roadway from 4 lanes and Soledad Canyon to a 6 lane Major Highway Between Via Princessa and Re -stripe roadway from 4 Newhall Avenue lanes to 6 lanes Between Newhall Avenue Widen roadway from 4 lanes and The Old Road to a 6 lane Major Highway Skyline Ranch Road (future) Between Whites Canyon Construct new 4 lane Road and Sierra Highway Secondary Highway Sloan Canyon Road Between The Old Road and Widen roadway from 2 lanes Parker Road to a 4 lane Secondary Highway Between Parker Road and Re -stripe roadway from 2 Quail Valley Road lanes to 4 lanes Between Hillcrest Parkway Construct new 2 lane Limited and Hasley Canyon Road Secondary Highway Soledad Canyon Road Between River Circle and Re -stripe roadway from 4 Will lose the existing SR-14 freeway lanes to 6 lanes Class 11 bike lane due to re -striping East of SR-14 freeway Widen roadway from 2 lanes to a 6 lane Major Highway DRAFT May 2011 C-26 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Roadway/Segment Improvement Comments Stevenson Ranch Parkway Between The Old Road and Re -stripe roadway from 4 Will lose the existing Pico Canyon Road lanes to 6 lanes Class II bike lane due to re -striping Valencia Boulevard Between Long Canyon Road Construct new 6 lane Major and existing Valencia Highway Boulevard terminus just west of Boulder Crest Drive Between 1-5 freeway and Reconstruct roadway from 7 McBean Parkway lanes to an 8 lane Major Highway Via Princessa Between existing Via Construct new 6 lane Major Gap closure segment Princessa terminus just east Highway of Claibourne Court and existing Via Princessa terminus just west of Sheldon Avenue Between Sheldon Avenue Widen roadway from 2 lanes and Rainbow Glen Drive to a 6 lane Major Highway Between Rainbow Glen Re -stripe roadway from 4 Drive and Whites Canyon lanes to 6 lanes Road Between SR-14 freeway and Re -stripe roadway from 4 Lost Canyon Road lanes to 6 lanes Whites Canyon Road Between Ashboro Drive and Re -stripe roadway from 4 Soledad Canyon Road lanes to 6 lanes Wiley Canyon Road Bridge over Railroad Avenue Widen roadway from 4 lanes Includes bridge widening to a 6 lane Major Highway Between bridge over Re -stripe roadway from 4 Will lose the existing Railroad Avenue and Lyons lanes to 6 lanes Class 11 bike lane due to Avenue re -striping Between Lyons Avenue and Restripe roadway from 2 lanes Wabuska Street to a 4 lanes Between Wabuska Street Widen roadway from 2 lanes and Cal rove Boulevard to 4 lanes Standard Cross Sections The standard cross sections shown in Exhibit C-3 are adopted for both City and County areas of the Santa Clarita Valley. C-27 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan m Exhibit C-3: Standard Roadway Cross Sections Major Highway with Bike Trail Detail CU L CU CU (B J J 70 70 Un Three Lanes in Each Direction With Raised Landscape Median, No On -Street Parking CU L CU n CU N 70 m CU J N i Major Highway with Bike Lane Detail CU L ^CU LL a CU CU (U J 70 N N 70 m U) Three Lanes in Each Direction With Raised Landscape Median, No On -Street Parking DRAFT May 2011 C-28 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Major Highway 8-Lane Alternative with Bike Lane Detail Exhibit C-3: Standard Roadway Cross Sections, Continued Major Highway 8-Lane Alternative with Bike Trail Detail C (B 70 m CU CU � CU a J J CU J J � m m n y T Four Lanes in Each Direction With Raised Landscape Median, No On -Street Parking CU L CU n CU N 70 m CU J N 7if Four Lanes in Each Direction With Raised Landscape Median, No On -Street Parking CU J N 7if CU L ^CU LL CU N m C-29 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Exhibit C-3: Standard Roadway Cross Sections, Continued Urban Secondary Highway with Bike Trail Detail C: C: L L (B (B J J (U Un 88' —10' 8' 12' — F 12' T 11' T 12' T 11'T 12' 5' T 5' Two Lanes in Each Direction With Two Way Left Turn Lane, No On -Street Parking Urban Secondary Highway with Bike Lane Detail c� c� L L C J J N N N N (A m m U) Two Lanes in Each Direction With Two Way Left Turn Lane, No On -Street Parking DRAFT May 2011 C-30 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation m Exhibit C-3: Standard Roadway Cross Sections, Continued Sub -Urban Secondary Highway with Bike Trail Detail m m J N 7if Two Lanes in Each Direction With Raised Landscape Median, No On -Street Parking cU L CU n CU N 70 m m J N i Sub -Urban Secondary Highway with Bike Lane Detail m J N 7if c� L LL � N N m (A Two Lanes in Each Direction With Raised Landscape Median C-31 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan cU L CU n C> 70 M Exhibit C-3: Standard Roadway Cross Sections, Continued Limited Secondary Arterial Highway- Two Lanes in Each Direction 84' 10'711' 12' 11 M 1 Two lanes in each direction with no on -street parking. Limited Secondary Arterial Highway -One Lane in Each Direction 8' 14 14' 0 a� J J O N LL U 84' 4' 14' 0 4 14'0, a� J O 4' 14 14'0-14 8' Two lanes in each direction with no on -street parking. DRAFT May 2011 C-32 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Exhibit C-3: Standard Roadway Cross Sections, Continued Industrial/Commercial Cul-de-sac cU L ^CU LL (U 0) 0) >> L C L VJ n ^^CU LL 10'7 11 66' 10, 11 Residential Collector c� L LL VJ LL LL 64' 2'1014 12' M 1 M C-33 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Exhibit C-3: Standard Roadway Cross Sections, Continued Residential Through Street c� c� L L LL LL 0) 0 CU C C/) n d C/) 60' 10 122--� 11' 11' 7' 125� Residential Cul-de-sac c� c� L L LL LL VJ LL LL VJ 58' 12�7' 10' 0 10' 7' 12' DRAFT May 2011 C-34 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Exhibit C-3: Standard Roadway Cross Sections, Continued Rural Secondary Highway R/W R/W 2' Rural Major Highway R/W R/W 2' * Master Plan Multi -Purpose Riding and Hiking Trail per Santa Clarita Area Plan. Final design of rural highways to be approved by Los Angeles County Department of Public Works. C-35 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Truck Route Plan One of the primary goals of the Circulation Element is to provide for the safe and efficient movement of goods throughout the planning area. Industrial uses require truck access for the delivery of raw materials or parts, the shifting of inventory, and the delivery of finished products. Commercial uses require the delivery of sales goods to market and the transferring of commercial inventories. Designating appropriate routes for trucks within the planning area serves to minimize the effects of truck traffic on normal vehicular traffic, and to limit noise and air pollution impacts on residential neighborhoods. In addition, the weight of trucks can have deleterious effects on paving, if the roadway was not designed for truck traffic. Within the planning area, streets approved to be used for truck traffic include all streets designated as major and secondary highways. Allowing trucks to use these streets, rather than local and collector streets except for the purpose of local deliveries, will ensure that the noise and diesel exhaust generated by truck traffic will not adversely impact residential neighborhoods. In addition, by allowing trucks to use all major and secondary highways, instead of designating only certain truck routes through the planning area, truck traffic will be dispersed instead of concentrated in a few locations, thereby lessening impacts on pavement. Truck parking has also been identified as a concern, especially in areas where residential neighborhoods are subject to noise from idling engines and refrigeration units. Truck parking will continue to be regulated in terms of location and hours, as issues arise. Recommendations for Street and Hiahwav Svstem Additional Access for Castaic The Castaic community, located in the northwestern portion of the planning area, has limited access to the remainder of the Santa Clarita Valley. Access is primarily provided by the Golden State Freeway (Interstate 5), which is often subject to heavy congestion and closures resulting from snow, wildfires, and traffic accidents. The Old Road is the principal alternative to Interstate 5. However, The Old Road is often subject to the same constraints, as it parallels Interstate 5 through Castaic. The Castaic Town Council identified Castaic's limited access as a pressing issue and requested alternatives to Interstate 5 and The Old Road. Specifically, the Town Council requested an alternative access route from Castaic to the Tesoro del Valle community. The alternative access route would generally travel southeasterly from Ridge Route Road, in the center of the Castaic community, to Tesoro del Valle Drive near its intersection with Copper Hill Drive. The Town Council requested that this alternative access route be designated on the County's Master Plan of Highways. The County's Interdepartmental Engineering Committee (IEC) evaluated this request and determined that the route should not be designated on the Master Plan of Highways. The IEC's determination was based on two factors. First, the route would traverse steep topography and other environmental constraints, making construction of a Highway extremely difficult and expensive. Second, the route would traverse lands where minimal future development is envisioned by the Land Use Map. DRAFT May 2011 C-36 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Although the alternative access route is not designated on the Master Plan of Highways, it could be constructed as a collector street. As described earlier in this Element, a collector street is a roadway which has an ultimate roadway section of two lanes with limited vehicular access to the roadway from driveways and cross streets. Any future land division in this area will be required to explore the feasibility of accommodating the roadway and reserving right-of-way or constructing the roadway, where deemed appropriate. San Francisquito Canyon Road Extension The County's Master Plan of Highways includes a proposed extension of San Francisquito Canyon Road, north of Cooper Hill Drive, that would connect directly to McBean Parkway. Prior to the adoption of this Area Plan, the proposed extension was designated as a Secondary Highway. As mentioned earlier in this Element, the proposed extension was recommended to be reclassified as a Limited Secondary Highway as a result of the traffic analysis conducted for this Area Plan. Accordingly, the proposed extension is now designated as a Limited Secondary Highway on the Master Plan of Highways (see Exhibit C-2 in this Area Plan). The San Francisquito Canyon Preservation Association, whose membership includes local residents, property owners, and equestrian users, expressed concerns regarding the proposed extension of San Francisquito Canyon Road. Although they acknowledged that a Limited Secondary Highway would have fewer potential impacts on the local community than a Secondary Highway, they requested that the proposed extension be completely removed from the Master Plan of Highways. The County's Interdepartmental Engineering Committee (IEC) evaluated this request and determined that the proposed extension should remain on the Master Plan of Highways. The IEC's determination was based on the need for safe, effective circulation in the area, as the proposed extension is superior to the current alignment of San Francisquito Canyon Road. However, the IEC acknowledged the community's concerns, especially as they related to equestrian users. Prior to the construction of the proposed extension of San Francisquito Canyon Road, the County's Department of Public Works will conduct outreach to the community and will investigate any concerns that are expressed. To ensure that concerns are addressed and potential impacts are minimized, the Department of Public Works will also implement any required traffic mitigations. These mitigations could include an equestrian crossing above or below the roadway, provided that the crossing is technically, environmentally, and financially feasible. H. Constraints and Opportunities for Improving Roadways Funding for Roadways Metro has the authority as the Regional Transportation Planning Agency to award regional transportation funds in Los Angeles County. Metro administers two local transportation sales tax initiatives, receiving the collected funds from the State. The primary sources of Metro funds are local sales taxes (Propositions A and C) and portions of the State and federal gasoline tax. California sales tax on motor vehicle fuel provides additional revenue. Metro provides funding directly to projects through grants of local funds, or indirectly through allocated federal or State grants. C-37 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Another funding source for traffic improvements is provided by developers, who are required to provide infrastructure to support new growth as it occurs. As part of the land use entitlement and subdivision approval process, developers are required to build on -site roadway improvements and to contribute their fair share to off -site improvements. Often this fair -share contribution to off -site regional improvements is collected in the form of a traffic impact fee. The City and County have received sufficient funds over the last 10 years to make significant improvements to the street systems in the Valley. More improvements are planned, including completion of the Cross -Valley Connector, road widening, and intersection improvements. However, the availability of funding is limited and targeted to increasing capacity of the existing roadway system. Additionally, the Valley's topography, with its ridgelines, canyons, drainage courses, and utility rights -of -way, makes building many new arterial highways and freeways infeasible for environmental as well as financial reasons. As a result of these constraints, no new freeways or new arterial highways are planned as part of this Circulation Element, other than those planned for in the prior Element. Instead, the Element proposes methods and policies to make more efficient use of the existing roadway system through various types of system improvements, as described in this section. Travel Demand Management Travel Demand Management (TDM) refers to strategies intended to result in more efficient use of transportation resources, which may include moving people more efficiently as well as designing land uses to reduce distances between destinations. Typical TDM strategies include policies to reduce congestion through alternative work schedules, use of high -occupancy vehicle lanes, promotion of alternative travel modes, and mixed -use zoning designations. The City's Non -Motorized Transportation Plan identified the following TDM measures which could effectively reduce vehicle trips in the Santa Clarita Valley: • Employer incentives to promote alternatives to single -occupancy vehicle work trips; • Employer incentives to promote ridesharing; • Promotion of alternative work schedules, including compressed work weeks, staggered shifts, and flex time; • Guaranteed Ride Home programs for employees who use alternative travel modes to work; • Telecommuting; • Shuttle buses along high -use routes; and • Increased use of non -motorized travel modes. In addition to the City's plans for non -motorized transportation improvements, regional plans have been developed to promote alternative travel modes. The Long Range Transportation Plan for Los Angeles County, approved in April 2006 by the Metro Board, establishes goals and strategies to improve mobility, air quality, and access throughout the County. Strategies include TDM measures such as incentives by employers for alternative travel modes by employees and smart growth strategies to maximize use of public transit. Parking Management Parking management refers to strategies that encourage efficient use of parking spaces as a method of reducing vehicle trips. Recent studies have concluded that parking spaces are provided at a higher rate than needed to support development. In his book The High Cost of DRAFT May 2011 C-38 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Free Parking, UCLA Urban Planning Professor Dr. Donald Shoup presents documentation supporting his conclusion that reforming parking policy will lead to better pedestrian environments, cleaner streets and air, safer shopping districts, and no significant inconvenience to motorists.2 In addition, the reduction of parking requirements may free land for other more beneficial uses, and alleviate the heat-island effect of large asphalt parking lots. Based on these concepts, some cities have revised their zoning ordinances to reduce parking requirements. Possible parking management strategies for the Santa Clarita Valley include the following: • Allowance for shared parking between uses and sites; • Provision of public parking to serve multiple uses; • Within transit -oriented, mixed -use areas, the separation of parking requirements from development entitlements; • Pricing (fee parking)strategies; • Regulation of parking to restrict duration, and designation of spaces for employees and residents; and • Restricting vehicles within pedestrian -oriented areas. Intersection Improvements Traffic congestion is usually generated at intersections, due to turn movements, pedestrian crossings, signal timing and other traffic control devices. If traffic flow at intersections is maintained, then the intervening roadway segments also generally operate at acceptable levels of service. As noted above, the City has implemented programs for intersection monitoring and signal synchronization to improve capacity at intersections. Based on the traffic model analysis undertaken for the One Valley One Visiion planning effort, which evaluated 23 key intersections within the Santa Clarita Valley, intersection improvements are required at the following locations. These improvements may include but are not limited to additional turn lanes, installation of traffic signals, synchronization of signals, and other traffic control devices. City Intersections • Bouquet Canyon Road at Newhall Ranch Road • Bouquet Canyon Road at Soledad Canyon Road • Sierra Highway at Soledad Canyon Road • Sierra Highway at Newhall Avenue • McBean Parkway at Newhall Ranch Road • McBean Parkway at Magic Mountain Parkway • McBean Parkway at Valencia Boulevard • Valencia Boulevard at Magic Mountain Parkway • Railroad Avenue at Lyons Avenue • Whites Canyon Road at Soledad Canyon Road • Orchard Village Road at McBean Parkway • Orchard Village Road at Wiley Canyon Road Z Shoup, Donald. The High Cost of Free Parking_ Chicago: Planners Press, 2005. C-39 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan County Intersections • The Old Road at Rye Canyon Road • The Old Road at Magic Mountain Parkway • The Old Road at McBean Parkway • The Old Road at Pico Canyon Road Land Use Strateaies As further explained in the Land Use Element, trip reductions can be gained by allowing mixed land uses so that residents can walk or bicycle to needed services, recreational facilities, parks, and shops. The land use plan developed for the Santa Clarita Valley includes many strategies designed to reduce vehicle trips, including designation of mixed use designations; allowance for neighborhood commercial uses within residential areas; allowance for higher residential densities in urban areas; restrictions on urban sprawl through land use designations; and promotion of transit -oriented, compact development around Metrolink stations. People are generally comfortable walking to destinations within one -quarter mile, but routinely walk one-half mile to access rail transit3. Surveys of bicycle commuters indicate that average bicycle commute distance can vary from approximately 4.5 miles4, to 7.5 miles5. By encouraging mixed uses, the land use plan will create opportunities for non -motorized travel modes. Congestion Relief The strategies identified in this section, including intersection enhancements, signal synchronization, mixed land uses, transportation demand and parking demand management, and transportation system management, will all be used to address traffic congestion on the Valley's street and highway system. However, even with aggressive use of these programs, traffic congestion may still occur at some locations due to daily and seasonal fluctuations in traffic volumes, lack of a grid pattern of streets to provide alternate routes to motorists, and relatively high volumes of traffic concentrated along major arterial corridors. The most cost- effective way to achieve congestion relief on surface streets will be provision of alternative transportation modes that are convenient, safe, efficient, pleasant and cost-effective, as described in later sections of this Element. 3 Scholssberg, Agrawal, Irvin, and Bekkouche, "How Far, By Which Route, and Why? A Spatial Analysis of Pedestrian Preference," Mineta Transportation Institute, 2007. 4 Forester, John, "Bicycle Transportation: A Handbook for Cycling Transportation Engineers," MIT Press, 1994. 5 Moritz, William E., "A Survey of North American Bicycle Commuters," Transportation Research Record 1578, 1997. DRAFT May 2011 C-40 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation I. Rail Service Rail Freiaht Service The rail freight element of the State Rail Plan provides a detailed account of the State's rail system, including service in North Los Angeles County. Port projections in Southern California show a doubling of international container shipments by year 2020. Capacity issues are a growing concern among California's railroads and rail freight shippers. There is only one rail line extending through the Santa Clarita Valley, which is shared by both freight and passenger rail service. Only about five freight trains per day use the rail line. The primary issue for freight service on this line is competition with the service needs of passenger rail, and potential conflicts with surface street traffic at rail crossings. Due to the rapidly increasing use of the ports at San Pedro and Long Beach, it has been proposed that the port facilities at Port Hueneme in Ventura County be expanded to handle a larger proportion of incoming freight. As part of this proposal, a freight rail line has been proposed from Port Hueneme through Santa Clarita to Victorville, which is emerging as a distribution hub. However, this concept has not won wide support in the Santa Clarita Valley, due to concerns about potential environmental impacts as well as economic feasibility. Other rail needs, such as additional grade separations and capacity expansion of the Antelope Valley Route (through double -tracking and/or passing sidings) have been identified as more necessary and feasible within the Valley. Metrolink Service The Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) operates Metrolink, a five -county commuter rail network of over 400 miles. Metrolink's seven commuter rail routes all connect at Union Station near downtown Los Angeles, where connections to other trains operated by Amtrak can be made, or where riders may board buses, vans, or the Metro Red Line subway to other Los Angeles locations. Union Station also provides connections to the Metro Gold Line, a light rail transit line connecting to Pasadena and other San Gabriel Valley destinations, and to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) via the Metro Purple, Blue and Green light rail lines or the Fly -Away Bus service. Average daily ridership on all Metrolink commuter train lines trains is over 48,000, and more than one million passengers ride Metrolink trains each month. Metrolink began service between Santa Clarita, the San Fernando Valley, Burbank, Glendale, and Los Angeles Union Station in 1992. Metrolink now provides commuter service between Santa Clarita and downtown Los Angeles, Glendale, Burbank, San Fernando, and the Antelope Valley. The Antelope Valley line operates on the Union Pacific rail line, which is also used for freight rail service. About 24 Metrolink trains per day use the line. C-41 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan When established in 1992, Metrolink commuter rail service included only one station, the Santa Clarita station in Saugus, near Soledad Canyon Road about two miles east of Valencia. This station has parking for about 500 vehicles, restroom facilities, and a passenger drop-off area. The station also serves as a major transit center for buses. A second station, Via Princessa, was opened as a temporary facility in 1994 to serve Canyon Country residents in the wake of the Northridge earthquake. This station contains 420 parking spaces. Recommendations to develop a permanent Metrolink station with transfer facilities to accommodate bus service, and increased park -and -ride spaces, were included in the City's 2006 Transportation Development Plan. The Jan Heidt Newhall station opened in 2000 with 150 parking spaces, and was later expanded by an additional 100 spaces in 2006. A need has been identified for a future fourth station on the east side of the Valley. As of 2008, 12 commuter trains run daily in each direction on the Antelope Valley line from Monday through Friday, with five trains departing Santa Clarita to Union Station before 8:00 a.m. Three of the twelve daily trains in each direction do not extend to the Antelope Valley, and City of Santa Clarita Transit provides connecting express buses for those trips. Commuters benefit from the line's easy access to the Metro Red Line subway and buses. Reduced Saturday and Sunday service is also available on the Antelope Valley Line, with six trains on Saturday and three trains on Sunday running between Union Station and Lancaster. Approximately 6,500 passengers typically ride the Antelope Valley Line on weekdays, with about 1,100 passengers from the Santa Clarita Valley. Interviews with riders indicate that gas prices, avoiding clogged freeways, environmental concerns, and time for reading while commuting are primary reasons for riding Metrolink. Recently some issues of crowding have been identified by passengers of the Antelope Valley line. In response to increased ridership, SCRRA has ordered new cars which will be in use on the Antelope Valley line by 2008. Passengers have also asked for additional runs during mid -day hours. An abandoned railroad right-of-way parallels State Route 126 and Magic Mountain Parkway connecting Santa Clarita with Fillmore and Santa Paula in Ventura County. A portion of the railroad corridor has been displaced by development along Magic Mountain Parkway. If this right-of-way were re -used for transportation purposes, a new alignment would be required over much of this distance. The Newhall Land and Farming Company has indicated its intent to preserve the segment of right-of-way within its development area to allow for potential future use as a rail passenger corridor, and has indicated interest in construction of a station and park - and -ride lot. No funding has been identified for rail in this corridor; however, future rail service between the Santa Clarita Valley and Ventura County could be provided through this linkage. One proposal being studied by the Ventura County Transportation Committee calls for extending the Santa Paula Line to the terminus at the Santa Clarita Metrolink Rail Station. The Santa Clarita City Council has supported extending the Santa Paula Line into the Santa Clarita Valley for tourism and passenger service, but has not indicated support for any portion of this line to be used for freight service. DRAFT May 2011 C-42 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Another concern regarding commuter rail service in the Valley is the number of at -grade crossings in urbanized areas, which have the potential to result in conflicts with vehicles and pedestrians, especially during peak traffic periods. In California, grade crossings are regulated by the State Public Utilities Commission, whose policy is to increase public safety by reducing the number of at -grade crossings. Additional at -grade crossings will generally not be allowed except where the total number does not increase. Opportunities for grade separations will be considered where feasible in the future. In the North Newhall Specific Plan, where an at -grade crossing is proposed to be relocated and improved, upgrades to other crossings may also be proposed. In cooperation with SCRRA, the City has studied a proposed realignment of the Metrolink tracks within the Whittaker- Berm ite property; however, due to the cost of such realignment it was found to be infeasible. Planning studies for this area are also addressing the issue of grade separations to allow for extension of two major arterial streets (Magic Mountain Parkway and Santa Clarita Parkway.) Amtrak California Amtrak California rail service does not operate between Bakersfield and Santa Clarita. However, Amtrak California operates an extensive network of daily express buses along I-5 that connects throughout Southern California, to and from the daily San Joaquin trains that originate at the Bakersfield Amtrak station. Of these connecting Bakersfield buses, a total of 5 daily northbound and six daily southbound trips stop in Santa Clarita at the Newhall Metrolink station. High Speed Rail Development The State of California has been studying the feasibility of a statewide intercity high speed rail network since the early 1990's. Various possible alignments have been looked at by the California High Speed Rail Authority for the 700-mile route linking the cities of Sacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego. The proposed rail system would use steel wheels on steel rails and be powered by electricity, with top speeds of over 200 miles per hour. One segment of the proposed route would extend from Union Station in Los Angeles to Bakersfield, through the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita, the Antelope Valley, and Tehachapi Pass. Under this scenario, the closest station serving Santa Clarita would likely be Sylmar. The greatest potential impacts of a high speed rail line on the Santa Clarita Valley may be from noise, aesthetics, and on biological resources along the Santa Clara River. The environmental studies for this project are underway. In addition to the State's high speed rail project, the Orangeline Development Authority (OLDA) was formed as a joint powers authority to finance, design, construct, and operate an environmentally sensitive, high-speed transportation system. OLDA includes 14 Orange County and Los Angeles County cities, including the City of Santa Clarita. The new transportation infrastructure is proposed as an elevated transportation system that would provide service between Irvine and Palmdale with stations located at key locations along the 108-mile route, including one in the Santa Clarita Valley adjacent to the Antelope Valley Freeway. Vehicles in the new system would travel at top speeds of 120 miles per hour. Other high-speed lines would link Los Angeles International Airport to airports in Ontario and Palmdale as well as extend to Las Vegas. To date, the alternatives analysis, feasibility analysis, and Phase 1 Engineering have been completed. The next step is to begin work on the Environmental Impact Report. The City and County will work cooperatively with the OLDA on the alignment for the new system through the planning area to identify the most suitable station site in the Santa Clarita Valley. C-43 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan While the station is envisioned generally in the vicinity of the Antelope Valley Freeway, more information is needed before a specific site can be identified. The station would serve as a regional hub within the Santa Clarita Valley but would also act as a gateway between the Valley and the rest of California. The station area would likely contain hotels, parking structures, office buildings, retail space, residential units and even recreational or cultural amenities. The station would require significant investment in new infrastructure and would require a large amount of land. Several possible locations exist, including an area known as the Vulcan properties, located in the eastern portion of the planning area east of the current City limits. Planning for the new transportation system remains preliminary and it is too early in the process to know which potential station site would best serve the Valley's high-speed transportation needs with the least impact on existing development. J. Air Service Aviation facilities are an integral component of the regional transportation system. The Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) provides commercial air travel to the planning area through its main facilities in Los Angeles (LAX); the Van Nuys Regional Airport; and Palmdale Regional Airport. In addition, the Burbank/Glendale/Pasadena Regional Airport (also called the Bob Hope Airport) serves residents of the planning area. Santa Clarita Valley residents primarily use the Bob Hope Airport in Burbank for shorter distance flights and LAX for international flights, or for destinations not served by Burbank. In addition to taxi service, there are shuttle services providing trips to local airports, including the Antelope Valley Airport Express and the Van Nuys Fly -Away Shuttle. Fly -Away service to LAX is also available from Union Station in Los Angeles, which connects with Metrolink service to the Santa Clarita Valley. Planned expansion of passenger air service at the Palmdale Regional Airport is being studied as an alternative to continued expansion of service at LAX. Officials representing the Santa Clarita Valley have indicated support for this plan, which would make air service more accessible to Valley residents. Due to congestion on Interstate Routes 5 and 405, expanded airport operations in Palmdale would provide a shorter and less congested alternative for air passengers from the Santa Clarita Valley. The Agua Dulce Airpark is a privately owned airport serving general aviation needs with one runway, aircraft parking, fuel, and basic passenger services. The Airpark averages about 28 operations per week and stores about 35 aircraft. Most of the Airpark's activity involves local operations. The Airpark is located in an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County, and the County has adopted an Airport Land Use Plan to protect the clear zones and ensure land use compatibility with airport operations. In 2006, the County approved continued operation and expansion of Airpark services, including allowing up to 300 airplanes and adding helicopter operations. There are also several helipads in the planning area used for medical transport, law enforcement, fire department activities, and other special transport needs. The locations of these helipads are shown on Exhibit C-4. DRAFT May 2011 C-44 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation K. Public Transit and Other Transportation Services Citv of Santa Clarita Transit Local and regional bus service is provided by City of Santa Clarita Transit, which operates local routes within the planning area and commuter service into and out of Downtown Los Angeles, Century City, the Antelope Valley and Warner Center. The City of Santa Clarita assumed responsibility for local transit in 1991 from Los Angeles County, which operated a small transit system. Under City management, express services to the San Fernando Valley, West Los Angeles, and downtown Los Angeles were expanded. The City completed a Transit Development Plan (TDP) in 1997 which made several recommendations for improvements and modifications. Since 1997 and based on the TDP, total transit system ridership has more than doubled. The City updated the TDP in 2006. With ridership of 3.7 million passengers in 2006, City of Santa Clarita Transit provides connections with services by Metrolink, Antelope Valley Transit Authority, Metro, and other regional transit providers. City of Santa Clarita Transit provides service on eight local fixed routes, eight commuter express routes, two station link routes, and supplemental school day service. Local routes provide service seven days a week while the remaining services operate on weekdays only. Express buses operate to and from the Antelope Valley, Downtown Los Angeles, North Hollywood, Westwood/Century City, and Woodland Hills. City of Santa Clarita Transit's regional routes serve several park -and -ride lots located throughout the Valley, as well as the Santa Clarita and Newhall Metrolink stations. The City has adopted a program to subsidize fares for senior citizens, and all buses are wheelchair accessible. City of Santa Clarita Transit also provides daily Dial -a -Ride (DAR) service within the Valley to provide service to senior citizens and disabled residents. Much of the DAR services are to the Adult Day Care Center and the Senior Center in Newhall. DAR passengers represent only two percent of daily patronage, but almost 20 percent of the transit budget. The updated TDP proposes several operational improvements to improve efficiency of this program. A new state-of-the-art transit maintenance facility opened in the Rye Canyon Business Park in April 2006, replacing scattered facilities rented from the private sector. The building was constructed using environmentally -sensitive design features and materials, including hay -bale walls and drought -resistant landscaping, and has received a Gold rating from the U. S. Green Building Council under the Leadership in Environmental Energy and Design (LEED) rating system. In 2002, the McBean Regional Transfer Center was opened adjacent to the Valencia Town Center; this facility provides a central transfer focal point to serve the community and has improved overall efficiency. C-45 DRAFT May, 2011 J Q W � V1 J Q Q o � J r s f r...z b aau IM-�'.Nu�W�PlafJ'. MpN difiOld]918Af1Y8L%IONdO c U City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation The City of Santa Clarita Transit's 2006 TDP calls for a 58 percent expansion of services over the next several years. In the future, the major capital facility needs for transit will be additional buses and vehicles. Planned improvements include automated vehicle location equipment, passenger information systems, and automated ridership count equipment. Signage will be posted throughout the community to highlight when buses will arrive; this information will also be accessible through personal computers and hand held computer devices. The areas generating the highest transit ridership are Newhall and Canyon Country in the vicinity of the intersection of Soledad Canyon Road and Sierra Highway. The City and County have opportunities to promote denser, transit -oriented development in areas where transit use is already high. Low -density residential development along the outskirts of the urban area provides the least opportunity to make effective use of transit. The 2006 TDP identified major employers and other activity centers which are served by transit, including Six Flags Magic Mountain, Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital, the Valencia Industrial Center, the Valencia Commerce Center, and the Valencia Town Center. The Plan also identified employers and destinations that are not yet served. According to the Plan, "transit service is desirable at locations where very large employers or clusters of employment are found. Locations that attract large numbers of visitors, students, children, the elderly or disabled should also have transit service available." City of Santa Clarita Transit provides good coverage and generates high ridership throughout the Valley. However, about 40 percent of the Valley's residents live outside a '/4-mile walking distance from a bus route, generally accepted as the distance most people are readily willing to walk to bus service. Lack of adequate access to transit stops causes service deficiencies in Sand Canyon, Castaic, Val Verde, Placerita Canyon, and other areas along the rural fringe. In some areas, such as Placerita Canyon and Calgrove Boulevard, gates have been installed across collector streets, precluding transit service in adjacent neighborhoods. Even in more urbanized areas, barriers that separate residents from transit stops include steep terrain, aqueducts, flood control channels, power line corridors, walled neighborhoods, lack of street connectivity, and grade separations. Many of the internal paseo systems do not connect to transit stops. There is a need for better pedestrian links to transit stops throughout the Valley in order to increase ridership. In recent years, increased ridership and traffic congestion have affected service reliability by delaying buses. The intersection of Soledad Canyon Road and Bouquet Canyon Road has been particularly problematic in causing bus delay; however, the completion of the Cross Valley Connector has alleviated some of this delay. In addition, it is recommended that traffic signals be programmed to give priority to buses at major intersections. Congestion is also caused by lack of adequate bus turnouts on heavily traveled arterial streets; these should be designed with sufficient length to allow the bus to re-enter the travel lane. The City has implemented a transit impact fee to recover capital costs from new development to mitigate impacts of that development on the transit system. This fee is currently under review with respect to anticipated system needs. In the future, the County will also evaluate the feasibility of adopting a similar fee to fund the capital costs of expanding the public transit system to serve new development in unincorporated areas of the Valley. C-47 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Commuter Transit Service City of Santa Clarita Transit operates local commuter service into and out of Downtown Los Angeles, Century City, the Antelope Valley, and Warner Center. Most of these routes are well used; use is monitored and adjustments are made to times if necessary to accommodate demand. The busiest commuter transit stops serve the Metrolink stations and park -and -ride lots. Commuters have identified the need to increase service to downtown Los Angeles during mid -day hours, and to provide service to the North Hollywood Metrolink Station which has service to the Orange and Red Lines. City of Santa Clarita Transit will continue to expand service to meet customer needs as funding allows. Special Transit Services City of Santa Clarita Transit provides special bus routes to major destination points throughout the Los Angeles area and to special events. Other special transit services include provision of transit to the Getty Center, Hollywood Bowl, beaches, and various festivals with destinations and routes determined on an as -needed basis. In order to facilitate multi -modal transportation, City of Santa Clarita Transit installed bicycle racks on all buses in July 2006. These racks can accommodate two to three bicycles per bus. Approximately 100 riders per month use the bicycle racks. Bus Stop Improvement Program The Bus Stop Improvement Program identified opportunities to create uniform and aesthetically pleasing bus stop improvements throughout City and County portions of the Santa Clarita Valley. As highly visible features within the streetscape right-of-way, bus shelters and benches provide an opportunity to assist in creating a distinctive identity for the Valley, as well as promoting a positive environment for transit riders. A goal of the program is to remove shelters that provide advertising and replace them with an architecturally enhanced bus shelter design that meets federal regulations and enhances the Valley's image. A significant need identified in the 2006 TDP was improving accessibility, convenience and safety for bus stops. Some stops have no paved waiting areas for transit riders to stand while waiting for the bus, causing them to stand on unpaved shoulders of busy streets, or in landscaped areas where sprinklers spray intermittently. The Plan recommended retrofitting bus waiting areas to provide pavement and connections to walkways, and ensuring that new development provides or contributes to adequate transit stop facilities as a condition of approval, where appropriate. Park -and -ride Lots Five park -and -ride lots are located in and near the planning area to encourage the use of public transit for a portion of commuter travel. All park -and -ride lots within the City have transit service except for the lot at Golden Valley Road at SR-14. Several of the park -and -ride lots, including those at the Newhall and Santa Clarita Metrolink stations, are at or exceeding capacity. Additional commuter parking is provided in scattered locations within businesses adjacent to transit routes. DRAFT May 2011 C-48 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation The 2006 TDP identified a need for development of a major (500+ spaces) park -and -ride lot at the intersection of Newhall Avenue and Sierra Highway. In addition to improving service at that location, a larger lot would increase parking capacity at the Newhall and Santa Clarita Metrolink Stations by diverting some bus riders from parking at the Metrolink stations. A second park - and -ride lot is also needed near the McBean Transfer Station, according to the plan. Funding sources for these improvements are being evaluated. School Bus Transaortation Each of the elementary school districts provides limited yellow bus transportation to students. Over the last decade the William S. Hart School District has gradually eliminated school buses to junior high and high schools. City of Santa Clarita Transit provides transit services near the schools, providing an alternative means of transportation for students although not designated as the official school transport provider. Taxi Service Taxi service is provided in the Santa Clarita Valley by various companies including Yellow Cab and Eagle Cab Companies, which have comparable rates. There are no subsidies provided for taxi service. L. Non -Motorized Travel Modes According to the regional planning agency, Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), average travel time on southern California roadways is higher than both the state and national averages. The resulting congestion contributes to poor air quality, opportunity costs of delay, high energy costs, and greenhouse gas emissions contributing to global climate change, and decreased quality of life for residents. The Congestion Management Program for Los Angeles County predicts that the largest increase in daily trips is expected to occur in North Los Angeles County, including the Santa Clarita and Antelope Valleys. Because of the expected growth within the Santa Clarita Valley, and the growing concern about traffic congestion, a major component of the Circulation Element is promotion of non -motorized travel modes, including bikeways and walkways. Planning for Bikeways A vital component of the Valley's circulation system is an integrated system of bikeways, both on -street and off-street. An interconnected network of safe and convenient bikeways provides residents with both recreational benefits and options for reducing vehicle trips for short trips. In addition, providing attractive bikeways can provide public health benefits by encouraging exercise. For planning purposes, bikeways are classified as to their location and type into three categories. A Class I bikeway is an exclusive, two-way path for bicycles that is completely separated from a street or highway. Class 11 bike lanes are signed and striped one-way lanes on streets or highways, typically at the edge of the pavement. Bike lanes provide a demarcated space for bicyclists within the roadway right-of-way, which is especially important on streets with moderate or higher volumes and speeds. Class III bike routes share the right-of-way with vehicles; they may be signed, but are not exclusively striped for use by cyclists. Although bike routes offer little benefit to cyclists on busy roadways, they can be used to guide cyclists through the street network. On any street carrying over 10,000 vehicles per day at speeds of 30 mph or C-49 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan higher, striped bike lanes are recommended over bike routes. In selecting routes for bikeways that share the right-of-way with vehicles, design criteria include connectivity, traffic volumes, speeds, curb width, intersection protection, and the number of commercial driveways. In planning for bikeways, consideration should also be given to the differing needs of experienced cyclists versus casual riders, and to utilitarian cyclists versus recreational riders. In general, cyclists who are less experienced or who are riding for enjoyment prefer using Class I, off-street bike paths that are landscaped, shaded, and may meander through neighborhoods or open areas. Cyclists who are experienced racers, long-distance riders, or who regularly ride as a way of commuting to work or services, generally prefer to ride within the travel lanes of the right-of-way because the directness of the route is more important than visual interest, and they can avoid conflicts with recreational trail users and pedestrians. Regional Bikeway Planning The MTA Board adopted the Metro Bicycle Transportation Strategic Plan in 2006 to promote bicycle use throughout the County. The Plan's vision is to make cycling a viable travel choice by promoting links between bicycle facilities and the transit network. The plan identifies four "bike -transit' hubs within the Santa Clarita Valley: the Valley's three Metrolink commuter rail stations, and the McBean Transfer Station. Another goal of the Metro Bicycle Transportation Strategic Plan was to evaluate gaps in the inter -jurisdictional bikeway network connecting cities and unincorporated areas to destinations and transit stops, and provide strategies for connecting bikeway links. Where gaps in the system were identified, city and county planners are encouraged to consider projects to complete the bikeway network. Within the Santa Clarita Valley, four gaps in the inter -jurisdictional bikeway network were identified by the Metro plan. These are summarized in Table C-4. Funds are available from the Bicycle Transportation Account program to help improve bicycle facilities, provided local agencies have adopted Bicycle Transportation Plans. The City of Santa Clarita's Non - Motorized Transportation Plan will fulfill this funding requirement. It should be noted that a portion of Bikeway Link No. 31 in Table C-4 extends through the Newhall Ranch Specific Plan area, adopted by Los Angeles County in 2003. The Master Plan for Trails within the Specific Plan shows a regional trail planned adjacent to the Santa Clara River from the eastern edge of the project to the Ventura County Line. When completed, this trail will fulfill the need for a bikeway connection between the Santa Clarita Valley and Ventura County. Both the City and the County have actively planned for and promoted development of trails and bikeways. Los Angeles County has adopted and is currently updating the County Plan of Bikeways, which divides the County into six subareas, of which the North County area is one. When the update is complete, the County's bikeway plan will be incorporated into the comprehensive Valley -wide bikeway plan in this Element (Exhibit C-5). DRAFT May 2011 C-50 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Table C-4 Gaps in the Inter -Jurisdictional Bikeway Network Santa Clarita Valley MTA Corridor Jurisdiction Description Constraints Located along Old Road May require shoulder adjacent to Golden State improvements and road Freeway. Connection widening in some places to 30 Old Road LA County between Valencia, Santa create Class II or III Clarita and San Fernando bikeway. Road Metrolink right-of- way bike path in the San Fernando Valley Connection between Santa May require shoulder Clarita and the Ventura improvements and road 31 Route 126 LA County County Line. widening in some places to create Class II or III bikeway. Connection between Santa May require shoulder Castaic/San Santa Clarita and Castaic Lake improvements and road 49 Francisquito Clarita/LA along Castaic Creek, San widening in some places to Creek County Francisquito Creek, and create Class II or III the Golden State Freeway bikeway. Connection between the May require shoulder Sierra Santa Old Road and Soledad improvements and road 50 Highway Clarita/LA Canyon Bike Path widening in some places to County/Caltrans create Class II or III bikeway. Source: Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority: 2006 Metro Bicycle Transportation Strategic Plan, p. 103-104. City of Santa Clarita Bikeway Planning The City of Santa Clarita first adopted the Multi -Use Corridor System plan as part of its Circulation Element update in 1997. The Multi -Use Corridor System is a trail system that serves a combination of users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and equestrians; an example of this type of facility is the South Fork Trail. Multi -Use Corridors are encouraged within and adjacent to local river and flood plain facilities, and typically include a right-of-way of 17 feet in order to provide separation between cyclists and pedestrians. Where equestrian use is allowed, a minimum of 30 feet is desirable. The first bike paths built in the City generally followed the Santa Clara River and its tributaries. Newer paths have been developed which connect residential neighborhoods to the river paths. Bike paths exist in most neighborhoods, providing connections to the Santa Clarita Metrolink Station, several schools, businesses along Soledad Canyon Road and McBean Parkway, and to recreational opportunities along the rivers. Grade -separated undercrossings are generally provided where Class I bike paths cross major highways. C-51 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan The City of Santa Clarita initiated preparation of a Non -Motorized Transportation Plan in 2006, with the general goal of reducing the number and length of vehicle trips through promotion of walking and biking as alternate modes of transportation. In undertaking a plan to increase non - motorized transportation, the City identified quality of life benefits such as reduced noise from traffic, better air quality, reduced fuel costs, and less time spent in traffic congestion. The resulting plan, entitled City of Santa Clarita Non -Motorized Transportation Plan, found that generally people tend to walk to destinations within '/4-mile, and bike to destinations within %2- mile. Other studies have found that people routinely walk one-half mile to access rail transit6 and surveys of bicycle commuters indicate that average bicycle commute distance can vary from approximately 4.5 miles', to 7.5 miles$. Initial surveys of residents and cyclists indicated that some of the reasons cited for not walking or cycling to destinations included the following: • Too many cars that drive too fast; • Difficult to cross streets; • No bike lanes or walking paths; • Paths in poor conditions; • Destinations are too far away; • Inadequate lighting; and • Lack of time. The City's Non -Motorized Transportation Plan, adopted in June 2008, addressed these issues through development of connected, safe, and convenient routes for cyclists and pedestrians. The plan also included a Safe Routes to Schools Program for three elementary schools. Policies and programs in the plan were designed to identify and prioritize bikeway needs; provide a plan for needed facilities and services; contribute to the quality of life through trail development; improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians; identify land use patterns that promote walking and cycling; improve access to transit; maximize funding opportunities for trails; and provide educational and incentive programs. According to City staff, "primary goals of the plan are to alleviate the current traffic congestion in the City and to encourage future decreases in motor vehicle use by making it easier, safer and more enjoyable to bicycle and walk as a general means of transportation. The plan will also encourage transit use and address equestrian needs." The coordinated master plan for bikeways in the Santa Clarita Valley is shown on Exhibit C-5. The City has already taken several steps to encourage walking and biking, including providing bicycle racks on City buses; promoting transit -oriented development in Downtown Newhall; constructing over 30 miles of off-street bicycle trails and over 14 miles of bicycle lanes; providing bicycle lockers at Metrolink stations, the McBean transfer station and City Hall; modifying traffic signal detection for bicycles; promoting Bike -To -Work days; and hosting the Amgen Tour Bicycle Race in 2007-09. Within the City of Santa Clarita, many opportunities are available for recreational riders on Class I trails, and more such trails are planned. The Non -Motorized Transportation Plan also identified a need to accommodate on -street riders through designation of bike lanes on arterials, 6 Scholssberg, Agrawal, Irvin, and Bekkouche, "How Far, By Which Route, and Why? A Spatial Analysis of Pedestrian Preference," Mineta Transportation Institute, 2007. Forester, John, "Bicycle Transportation: A Handbook for Cycling Transportation Engineers," MIT Press, 1994. 8 Moritz, William E., "A Survey of North American Bicycle Commuters," Transportation Research Record 1578, 1997. DRAFT May 2011 C-52 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation wide curb lanes, loop detectors at signals, direct commuter routes, and protected intersection crossing locations. In addition, connections between residential areas and bikeways are needed to facilitate increased bicycle use for both recreational and commuting purposes. C-53 DRAFT May, 2011 w 00 c LL z z LU -j LU 0 z LU A m u gill 0, 0 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Bicvcle Parkina and Suaaort Facilities Adequate bicycle parking to serve transit facilities and commercial areas has also been identified as a goal by both the City and the County. Bicycle lockers are provided at all three Metrolink stations and at City Hall. Several major employers, such as Six Flags Magic Mountain and The Master's College, provide bicycle parking and changing facilities to promote bicycle support for employees. In order to encourage bicycle use at major employment and commercial centers, it is necessary that bicycle parking facilities be secure. Policies have been added to the Circulation and Land Use Elements to require adequate bicycle parking and support facilities where appropriate. Pedestrian Circulation System A fundamental goal of the General Plan is to create walkable communities and neighborhoods within the Santa Clarita Valley. In order to achieve this objective, pedestrian access must be considered in all phases of development planning, including site design, subdivision design, and public improvement projects. The basic needs for pedestrian travel are safety, connectivity, and accessibility for all, including the disabled. The Valley's existing pedestrian network is comprised of sidewalks, paseos, and multi -use trails. Sidewalks are defined as pathways running alongside a parallel roadway. Paseos are paved walking paths that provide pedestrian links outside of the street network. Multi -use trails are unpaved trails that are suitable for walkers, hikers, equestrians and mountain bikers. Most of the major roadways in the Valley have sidewalks along portions of their length. Along many arterials, such as Soledad Canyon Road, sidewalks are located adjacent to the curb and are not buffered from vehicle traffic by landscaped parkways, causing an unpleasant walking environment due to traffic noise and fumes. In other areas, such as portions of McBean Parkway and Newhall Ranch Road, sidewalks are separated from vehicle lanes by landscaped parkways, resulting in a more user-friendly pedestrian experience. The network of sidewalks is discontinuous in many areas; sidewalks are not provided on some residential streets, in some industrial areas, or on designated rural roads. Not all bus stops are served by sidewalks, and in some areas sidewalks are not provided on both sides of a street. Some rural communities in the Valley, such as Agua Dulce and those with special standards districts such as Placerita Canyon and Sand Canyon, have opted not to have concrete sidewalks and prefer streetscape designs more in keeping with the rural and equestrian character of these neighborhoods; however, even in these areas, walking trails of some type are desirable for pedestrians in certain locations. C-55 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Major intersections are striped with pedestrian crosswalks, and signalized intersections have pedestrian push buttons to activate walk signals. Pedestrian countdown signals are planned for approximately 200 intersections in the City; about 80 signals have been installed as of 2008, and the work as completed in the beginning of 2011. However, crossing eight to 10 lanes of traffic on streets where speeds average 45 to 55 miles per hour can be daunting for pedestrians. Intersections can be made more pedestrian -friendly by installing traffic calming features such as striping, landscaping, and pedestrian islands. Pedestrian bridges have been provided for crossing of arterial streets in several areas throughout the community; these improvements will continue to be required to enhance pedestrian safety and connectivity, where feasible and practical. The City is also exploring the feasibility of using round-abouts at certain intersections, which are designed to slow traffic and allow merging and turn movements without causing long periods of idling for vehicles, while allowing pedestrians to walk safely around the intersection. Portions of the planning area, such as Valencia and Saugus, were planned with paseos that provide attractive, landscaped pedestrian pathways connecting residential neighborhoods, commercial and public uses. The Valencia paseo system also provides pedestrian overpasses of arterial streets to increase public safety and preserve mobility on the arterials. Paseos were designed to provide connections between cul-de-sacs, to schools, neighborhood parks, and activity areas. They are landscaped, paved, and illuminated. In some areas paseos take the place of sidewalks. In other portions of the planning area, topography and subdivision design have discouraged the use of walkways and, consequently, the use of public transit. Walled communities and steep hills make it difficult for many residents to conveniently access buses operating on arterials. In addition, the Non -Motorized Transportation Plan identified the following needs for pedestrians: • Sufficient crossing time at signalized intersections; • Visibility at crossings; • Continuity of walkways; • Adequate walkway width, removing obstructions in the walkway, and providing buffer or separation from travel lanes; • Traffic calming to slow speeds in pedestrian areas; • Mixed land uses decreasing distance between destinations; and • Providing connectivity through cul-de-sacs and non -grid street patterns. The City's Unified Development Code also contains requirements for incorporating non - motorized transportation amenities into new development. These include requiring pedestrian access ways through blocks of over 700 feet in length; requiring amenities for transit users, cyclists and pedestrians; requiring installation of pedestrian crossing treatments near schools, parks, senior facilities, and other destinations for special needs groups; requirements for sidewalks in most new development; and requirements for bicycle parking. Recommendations for new development by the Non -Motorized Transportation Plan include increasing connectivity to encourage walking and bicycling. Subdivision patterns that create numerous cul-de-sacs, developments surrounded by block walls, and shopping centers with no pedestrian connections to adjacent neighborhoods are discouraged. Where cul-de-sacs are used, pedestrian connections to adjacent streets should be provided, and walkways should be provided connecting neighborhoods to services and facilities. Policies have been included in the Element to emphasize these objectives. DRAFT May 2011 C-56 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation In addition to the policies in the Circulation Element designed to promote walkable communities, the Land Use Element has been developed to promote non -motorized transportation by concentrating shops, restaurants, and other destinations in proximity to residences so that people can walk to these services. Hiking Trails The City has developed several hiking trails, some shared by equestrian users, which are used primarily for recreational purposes. The City maintains seven miles of multi -purpose trails, which are unpaved and intended for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Trails are located in rural areas, generally in the southern and eastern parts of the City. The network includes an equestrian path that parallels the South Fork Trail, and one that parallels Sand Canyon Road. The City plans to develop another five to six miles of multi -purpose trails in the future. The County also maintains a master plan for hiking trails in the Santa Clarita Valley, which was most recently updated in 2007. The City's and County's hiking and recreational trails are combined in the Valleywide Trail Master Plan, shown on Exhibit CO-9 in the Conservation and Open Space Element. M. Healthy Streets for Walkable Communities Although the location and alignment of local neighborhood streets are not typically addressed at the General Plan level, the City and County share a common goal to ensure that neighborhood streets in urban areas are designed to be as safe and healthful as possible, for residents and pedestrians as well as drivers. This section addresses pedestrian safety in urban areas where full street improvements are required. While the need for public safety is also recognized in rural areas with unimproved streets, other design measures are appropriate in these areas in order to maintain rural character. The need to consider pedestrian safety in street design has prompted traffic engineers to develop a variety of design options which generally seek to improve pedestrian safety in three ways: by separating pedestrians from vehicles (such as with pedestrian overpasses, refuge islands, and paseos); by making pedestrians more visible and conspicuous to drivers (such as through lighting, raised crosswalks, and "bulb -outs" of the sidewalk into the street at corners); and by reducing vehicle speeds (such as with traffic circles, narrowed travel lanes, curving roadways, raised intersections, and speed humps). These measures, often called "traffic - calming" devices, have been successfully used in many cities to slow traffic and improve pedestrian safety. In California, the Local Government Commission has developed Street Design Guidelines for Healthy Neighborhoods9, which outlines street -making guidelines initially prepared for communities in the San Joaquin Valley but that are widely applicable, based on their compliance with adopted standards of the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE), American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), the National Fire Code, and other national standards. The guidelines are intended to be used for development of new residential communities of six to 12 dwellings/acre and mixed use areas in proximity to transit, and for protection of existing traditional communities. Healthy streets are defined as "networks of roadways and connector 9 Burden, Dan. Street Design Guidelines for Healthy Neighborhoods, Local Government Commission, 2002. C-57 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan trails in communities, designed primarily for use by people, not just motorized vehicles. Such streets are designed for motorists to feel comfortable operating at low speeds (15 to 20 mph). Low traffic volume and low noise, easy access, and multiple routes to destinations are also featured. Pedestrian and bicycle movements are favored." Healthy streets incorporate design characteristics such as the following: • Interconnected networks linking mixed uses; • Shorter block length (250 to 350 feet); • Landscaped medians, parkways, and tree canopies; • On -street parking; • Sidewalks; • Curbs and gutters (in favor of rolled curbs or swales); • Street furniture and lighting; • Transit stops within '/4-mile; • Building setbacks proportional to street width; • Narrower intersections with smaller radii; and • Speed control through geometrics, tee intersections and curves. In addition to enhanced pedestrian and traffic safety, the use of narrower streets (where safe and appropriate) can have other benefits. According to Livable Oregon, the use of narrower street widths provides more efficient use of land, decreased storm water runoff, lower maintenance costs, increased market value, lower development costs, and an enhanced sense of community. The Bay Area Stormwater Management Agencies Association has encouraged reducing impervious area throughout cities as a means of maintaining water quality. According to their publication Start at the Source10, streets comprise up to 25 percent of the total land area in residential neighborhoods, and street pavement is often the largest component of total impervious land coverage. Residential streets provide a major opportunity for reducing pavement width to lower speeds, as well as reducing impervious surface area. Many traditional residential neighborhoods developed prior to World War II were based on a prototypical residential subdivision designed by Frederick Law Olmsted for Riverside, Illinois in 1869, with a pavement width of 24 feet and 12-foot parkway strips planted with street trees and provided with five-foot sidewalks on both sides. After World War II new street standards were developed to accommodate increased automobile use, higher traffic volumes and greater speeds. The paved area was increased by up to 50 percent, with a typical residential street width of 36 feet, plus curb, gutter, and five-foot sidewalks on both sides, and often no landscaped parkway. In 2006 the ITE published Context Sensitive Solutions in Designing Major Urban Thoroughfares for Walkable Communities: An ITE Proposed Recommended Practice. The report "provides guidance for the development of improvement projects on major urban thoroughfares, facilities that are typically classified as arterial and collector roadways in urbanized areas ... and in the design of roadway improvement projects in places where community objectives support walkable communities — compact development, mixed land uses and support for pedestrians and bicyclists - whether it already exists or is a goal for the future." This document recommends an interdisciplinary team approach to designing thoroughfares, incorporating input from citizens, 10 Bay Area Stormwater Management Agencies Association, Start at the Source, May, 2003, page 19. DRAFT May 2011 C-58 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation emergency services personnel and other stakeholders to achieve community goals, and states that where the community has expressed a desire for walkable environments, context sensitive solutions can be used to create places with the following characteristics: 1. Mixed land uses in close proximity to one another; 2. Building entries that front directly onto the street without parking between entries and the public right-of-way; 3. Building, landscape and thoroughfare design that is pedestrian -scale, in other words, it provides architectural and urban design detail with size and design appreciated by persons who are traveling slowly and observing from the street level; 4. Relatively compact developments (both residential and commercial); 5. A highly -connected, multimodal circulation network, usually with a fine "grain" created by relatively small blocks; and 6. Thoroughfares and other public spaces that contribute to "placemaking" — the creation of unique locations that are compact, mixed -use and pedestrian- and transit -oriented and have a strong civic character with lasting economic value. The references cited above, which address methods of creating walkable streets in residential neighborhood streets as well as along arterial thoroughfares, stress the need to coordinate land use and development patterns with street patterns. Mixed land uses, building orientations and setbacks, and location of parking are important components of creating walkable communities, in addition to street design. The ITE's Context Sensitive Solutions defines walkable communities as follows: Walkable communities are desirable places to live, work, learn and play. Their desirability comes from two factors. First, by locating, within an easy and safe walk, goods (such as housing, offices, and retail) and services (such as transportation, schools, libraries) that a community resident or employee needs on a regular basis. Second, by definition, walkable communities make pedestrian activity possible, thus expanding transportation options and creating a streetscape that better serves a range of users — pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and drivers. To foster walkability, communities must mix land uses and build compactly, and ensure safe and inviting pedestrian corridors. Within the Santa Clarita Valley, much of the development during the last twenty years has been low -density with a suburban character, circuitous cul-de-sac street patterns, and wide streets. In many of these existing areas, large-scale changes to street patterns will not be feasible or desirable until redevelopment occurs many years in the future. However, small improvements may be used to enhance pedestrian connectivity by linking cul-de-sac bulbs to adjacent streets and transit stops, providing paseo links, and using traffic calming devices. Arterial streets can be made more walkable by provision of connected walkways, transit stops and shelters, street trees and landscaping, bulb -outs and refuge islands at intersections, and use of overpasses where appropriate and feasible. The greatest opportunities in the Valley to create walkable communities exist in areas planned for infill development and redevelopment around transit centers, commercial corridors, mixed - use nodes, and new development. The City and County have identified a common goal to increase the health and livability of the community by encouraging the inclusion of walkable streets in these areas, and policies have been included in the Circulation Element to achieve this goal. C-59 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan N. Circulation Systems, Carbon Emissions, and Global Climate Change In 2007 the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change of the United Nations published its finding that overwhelming evidence establishes that global warming is occurring and is caused by human activity. According to the State of California Attorney General's office: With respect to impacts in the State, the California Climate Change Center reports that temperatures are expected to rise 4.7 to 10.5 F by the end of the century. These increases would have serious consequences, including substantial loss of snow -pack, an increase of as much as 55% in the risk of large wildfires, and reductions in the quality and quantity of agricultural products. Additionally, the report predicts increased stress on the State's vital resources and natural landscapes. Global warming will also slow the progress toward attainment of the ozone air quality standard by increasing the number of days that are meteorologically conducive to the formation of ozone. In response to concerns about climate change, Assembly Bill 32 (AB 32), the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (codified at Health and Safety Code Section 38500 et seq.), was signed into law by the Governor on September 27, 2006. AB 32 requires reduction of the State's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (CHG) to 1990 levels by 2020, a time within the planning horizon of this General Plan. This emissions cap is equal to a 25 percent reduction from current levels. The bill directs that the California Air Resources Board (CARB) publish a list of early action emission reduction measures to be implemented by 2010. CARB's early action measures include reduction of emissions from fuel consumption. To further combat global warming, California is promoting the development of alternative technologies to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, including development of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies. According to the California Energy Commission, transportation accounts for the largest single share of California's GHG (41 percent). The Governor's Climate Action Team has identified increased vehicle efficiency, the use of bio-fuels, and planning measures, as strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions generated by transportation. The Climate Action Team identified land use planning as a strategy to reduce vehicle travel by more than 10 percent of the required reductions, including concentrating development in infill locations and at transit nodes to reduce the automobile mode share of vehicle trips, increasing transit ridership, and providing alternative transportation modes. Bond measures passed by California voters in 2006 earmarked funds for transit -oriented development and for incentives to promote planning, housing and infill development using smart growth planning principles. Pursuant to AB 32, standards and regulations for measuring and mitigating GHG were still being developed during the time this General Plan was prepared. However, because of the importance of this issue and in response to the State's mandate that local agencies consider the effects of greenhouse gas emissions in local planning decisions, the City and County have incorporated policies in the General Plan to reduce vehicle trips and thereby reduce carbon emissions through a variety of planning strategies. These strategies include establishing an urban limit line on the Land Use Map, encouraging infill development through increased densities allowed in the urban core, encouraging mixed use development in specified land use designations, promoting transit oriented development around Metrolink stations and the bus transfer station, expanding bikeways and walkways, and using transportation demand management measures. DRAFT May 2011 C-60 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Future transportation technologies are being developed using alternative energy sources such as hydrogen cells and electric vehicles. Some communities are exploring opportunities for accommodating Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEV), which are capable of traveling up to 25 mph, are equipped with safety features, and may be operated on roads where the posted speed is 35 mph or less. Most of these devices are electric powered with zero emissions, and they are often used at resorts and senior communities. According to a recent publication from the American Planning Association: As fuel prices increase and people look for more environmentally friendly driving options, it is likely that the number of NEV's will increase. Most states already regulate them in some way, and transportation planners are beginning to examine the role of such vehicles in the roadway hierarchy. In some parts of the country, NEV's are most common in communities where there is a network of multi -use paths. In other places, they are found on bike paths... Communities that cater to seniors or focus on recreation often plan a network of paths specially designed for these vehicles." The City and County recognize that opportunities may exist to incorporate new vehicle technology into transit -oriented villages, as these areas are developed in the future. Therefore, policies have been added to the Circulation Element encouraging flexibility in transportation planning in order to maximize benefits from alternative travel modes as they become available. O. Summary of Circulation Needs Based on the existing conditions and transportation issues outlined in the background sections of the Circulation Element, the circulation planning needs for the Santa Clarita Valley are summarized below. Policies and objectives in the following section have been developed to address these needs. 1. Balance the needs for mobility and access in designing the roadway system. 2. Increase connectivity between neighborhoods and districts. 3. Maintain acceptable levels of service on streets and at intersections. 4. Comply with the County's Congestion Management Program and other regional transportation planning efforts. 5. Implement roadway improvements needed to build out the Highway Plan as identified by the traffic analysis (see Table C-2). 6. Reduce congestion and vehicle miles traveled by managing transportation systems and travel demand. 7. Make more efficient use of parking facilities, to reduce the cost of vehicle storage and to free land for other uses. " Hunter-Zaworski, Katharine, "Getting Around in an Aging Society," Planning: the Magazine of the American Planning Association, Volume 73, Number 5, page 25. C-61 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan 8. Enhance use of public transit by promoting transit -oriented, mixed use development near transit hubs. 9. Continue to explore opportunities for high speed rail connections to other regions, in cooperation with other agencies. 10. Enhance bus transit use through implementing recommendations of City of Santa Clarita Transit's planning efforts, including evaluation of bus rapid transit (BRT). 11. Evaluate park -and -ride lot locations and capacity, and expand facilities as needed. 12. Plan for and implement a regional bikeway network, to meet both recreational and non - motorized travel needs. 13. Make the Santa Clarita Valley a walkable community, by retrofitting pedestrian connections and facilities into existing development where needed, and by promoting healthy streets in new development. 14. Contribute to a regional reduction in greenhouse gas emissions through land use planning and transportation strategies. PART 2: CIRCULATION GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES Multi -Modal Circulation Network Goal C 1: An inter -connected network of circulation facilities that integrates all travel modes, provides viable alternatives to automobile use, and conforms with regional plans. Objective C 1.1: Provide multi -modal circulation systems that move people and goods efficiently while protecting environmental resources and quality of life. Policy C 1.1.1: Reduce dependence on the automobile, particularly single - occupancy vehicle use, by providing safe and convenient access to transit, bikeways, and walkways. Policy C 1.1.2: Promote expansion of alternative transportation options to increase accessibility to all demographic and economic groups throughout the community, including mobility -impaired persons, senior citizens, low-income persons, and youth. Policy C 1.1.3: Work with local and regional agencies and employers to promote an integrated, seamless transportation system that meets access needs, including local and regional bus service, dial -a -ride, taxis, rail, van pools, car pools, bus pools, bicycling, walking, and automobiles. Policy C 1.1.4: Promote public health through provision of safe, pleasant, and accessible walkways, bikeways, and multi -purpose trail systems for residents. DRAFT May 2011 C-62 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Policy C 1.1.5: Plan for efficient links between circulation systems at appropriate locations, including but not limited to bus -rail connections and pedestrian -bus connections. Policy C 1.1.6: Provide adequate facilities for multi -modal travel, including but not limited to bicycle parking and storage, expanded park -and -ride lots, and adequate station and transfer facilities in appropriate locations. Policy C 1.1.7: Consider the safety and convenience of the traveling public, including pedestrians and cyclists, in design and development of all transportation systems. Policy C 1.1.8: Acquire and/or reserve adequate right-of-way in transportation corridors to accommodate multiple travel modes, including bus turnouts, bus rapid transit (BRT), bikeways, walkways, and linkages to trail systems. Policy C 1.1.9: Incorporate funding for all modes of transportation in the capital improvement program, and seek funding from all available sources for multi - modal system development. Policy C 1.1.10: Provide for flexibility in the transportation system to accommodate new technology as it becomes available, in order to reduce trips by vehicles using fossil fuels where feasible and appropriate. Policy C 1.1.11: Promote use of multi -modal facilities by providing adequate and attractive way -finding programs directing users to transit stations, park -and - ride lots, bicycle storage, and other facilities. Policy C 1.1.12: Implement recommendations of the City's Non -Motorized Transportation Plan to expand opportunities for alternative travel modes. Policy C 1.1.13: Design new activity centers and improve existing activity centers to prioritize walking, bicycling and circulator transit for internal circulation of person -travel. Objective C 1.2: Coordinate land use and circulation planning to achieve greater accessibility and mobility for users of all travel modes. Policy C 1.2.1: Develop coordinated plans for land use, circulation, and transit to promote transit -oriented development that concentrates higher density housing, employment, and commercial areas in proximity to transit corridors. Policy C 1.2.2: Create walkable communities, with paseos and walkways connecting residential neighborhoods to multi -modal transportation services such as bus stops and rail stations. Policy C 1.2.3: Require that new commercial and industrial development provide walkway connections to public sidewalks and transit stops, where available. C-63 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy C 1.2.4: Consider location, availability, and accessibility of transit in evaluating new development plans. Policy C 1.2.5: In mixed use projects, require compact development and a mix of land uses to locate housing, workplaces, and services within walking or bicycling distance of each other. Policy C 1.2.6: Provide flexible standards for parking and roadway design in transit -oriented development areas to promote transit use, where appropriate. Policy C 1.2.7: In pedestrian -oriented areas, provide a highly connected circulation grid with relatively small blocks to encourage walking. Policy C 1.2.8: Provide safe pedestrian connections across barriers, which may include but are not limited to major traffic corridors, drainage and flood control facilities, utility easements, grade separations, and walls. Policy C 1.2.9: Emphasize providing right-of-way for non -vehicular transportation modes so that walking and bicycling are the easiest, most convenient modes of transportation available for short trips. Policy C 1.2.10: Protect communities by discouraging the construction of facilities that sever residential neighborhoods. Policy C 1.2.11: Reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) through the use of smart growth concepts. Policy C 1.2.12: Balance the anticipated volume of people and goods movement with the need to maintain a walkable and bicycle friendly environment. Objective C 1.3: Ensure conformance of the Circulation Plan with regional transportation plans. Policy C 1.3.1: Continue coordinating with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) to implement the County's Congestion Management Program (CMP) for designated CMP roadways. Policy C-1.3.2: Participate in updates to the CMP and collaborate with Caltrans and Metro to revise CMP impact thresholds, ensuring that they are adequate and appropriate. Policy C 1.3.3: Through trip reduction strategies and emphasis on multi -modal transportation options, contribute to achieving the air quality goals of the South Coast Air Quality Management District Air Quality Management Plan. Policy C 1.3.4: Coordinate circulation planning with the Regional Transportation Plan prepared by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), to ensure consistency of planned improvements with regional needs. Policy C 1.3.5: Continue coordinating with Caltrans on circulation and land use decisions that may affect Interstate 5, State Route 14, and State Route 126, and DRAFT May 2011 C-64 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation support programs to increase capacity and improve operations on these highways. Policy C 1.3.6: Collaborate with Caltrans and Metro to implement the recommendations of the North County Combined Highways Corridors Study and support efforts by Metro to update this Study after SCAG adopts a Sustainable Communities Strategy. Policy C 1.3.7: Support the Golden State Gateway Coalition in its advocacy efforts to improve the Interstate 5 corridor, recognizing that the corridor facilitates regional and international travel that impacts the Santa Clarita Valley. Policy C 1.3.8: Ensure consistency with the County's adopted Airport Land Use Plan as it pertains to the Agua Dulce Airport, in order to mitigate aviation -related hazards and protect airport operations from encroachment by incompatible uses. Policy C 1.3.9: Support the expansion of Palmdale Regional Airport and the extension of multi -modal travel choices between the airport and the Santa Clarita Valley, in conformance with regional planning efforts. Policy C 1.3.10: Apply for regional, State, and federal grants for bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure projects. Street and Highway System Goal C 2: A unified and well -maintained network of streets and highways which provides safe and efficient movement of people and goods between neighborhoods, districts, and regional centers, while maintaining community character. Objective C 2.1: Implement the Circulation Plan (as shown on Exhibit C-2) for streets and highways to meet existing and future travel demands for mobility, access, connectivity, and capacity. Policy C 2.1.1: Protect mobility on arterial highways by limiting excessive cross traffic, access points, and turning movements; traffic signals on arterial highways should be spaced at least %2-mile apart, and the minimum allowable separation should be at least'/4-mile. Policy C 2.1.2: Enhance connectivity of the roadway network to the extent feasible given the constraints of topography, existing development patterns, and environmental resources, by constructing grade separations and bridges; connecting discontinuous streets; extending secondary access into areas where needed; prohibiting gates on public streets; and other improvements as deemed appropriate based on traffic analysis. Policy C 2.1.3: Protect and enhance the upgrading intersections to meet level of restriping for additional lanes, synchronizin, a C-65 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy C 2.1.4: Ensure that future dedication and acquisition of right-of-way is based on the adopted Circulation Plan, proposed land uses, and projected demand. Policy C 2.1.5: At the time of project level review, monitor levels of service, traffic accident patterns, and physical conditions of the existing street system, and upgrade roadways as needed through the Capital Improvement Program. Objective C 2.2: Adopt and apply consistent standards throughout the Santa Clarita Valley for street design and service levels, which promote safety, convenience, and efficiency of travel. Policy C 2.2.1: Designate roadways within the planning area based on their functional classification as shown on Exhibit C-2. Policy C 2.2.2: Adopt consistent standard street cross sections for City and County roadways in the planning area, as shown on Exhibit C-3. Policy C 2.2.3: Coordinate circulation plans of new development projects with each other and the surrounding street network, within both City and County areas. Policy C 2.2.4: Strive to maintain a Level of Service (LOS) D or better on most roadway segments and intersections to the extent practical; in some locations, a LOS E may be acceptable, or LOS F may be necessary, for limited durations during peak traffic periods. Policy C 2.2.5: Adopt common standards for pavement width in consideration of capacity needs to serve projected travel demand, provided that a reduction in pavement width may be allowed in order to reduce traffic speeds, protect resources, enhance pedestrian mobility, or as otherwise deemed appropriate by the reviewing authority. Policy C 2.2.6: Within residential neighborhoods, promote the design of "healthy streets" which may include reduced pavement width, shorter block length, provision of on -street parking, traffic -calming devices, bike routes and pedestrian connectivity, landscaped parkways, and canopy street trees. Policy C 2.2.7: Where practical, encourage the use of grid or modified grid street systems to increase connectivity and walkability; where cul-de-sacs are provided, promote the use of walkways connecting cul-de-sac bulbs to adjacent streets and/or facilities to facilitate pedestrian access; where street connectivity is limited and pedestrian routes are spaced over 500 feet apart, promote the use of intermediate pedestrian connections through or between blocks. Policy C 2.2.8: Local street patterns should be designed to create logical and understandable travel paths for users and to provide access between neighborhoods for local residents while discouraging cut -through traffic; cul-de- sac length should not exceed 600 feet, and "dog -leg" cul-de-sacs with one or more turns between the bulb and the outlet should be avoided where possible. DRAFT May 2011 C-66 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Policy C 2.2.9: Medians constructed in arterial streets should be provided with paved crossover points for emergency vehicles, where deemed necessary by the Fire Department. Policy C 2.2.10: The street system design, including block length, width, horizontal and vertical alignments, curves, and other design characteristics, should function safely and effectively without the subsequent need for excessive traffic control devices to slow or deflect traffic. Policy C 2.2.11: For intersections of collector or larger streets, four-way intersections are preferred over offset intersections. Policy C 2.2.12: Private streets, other than driveways and alleyways typically associated with multi -family development, should be constructed to standards for public rights -of -way, except as otherwise approved by the reviewing agency. Policy C 2.2.13: Protect the community character of rural areas by requiring use of rural street standards, which may include reduced pavement width, reduced street lighting to protect night skies, rolled curbs or no curbs and no sidewalks. Policy C 2.2.14: Streets should be designed in context with the terrain and the natural and built features of the area, but excessively circuitous streets should be avoided to minimize unnecessary vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian mileage. Policy C 2.2.15: Adopt consistent standards for implementation of Americans with Disabilities Act requirements such as curb ramp design and accessible pedestrian signals. Objective C 2.3: Balance the needs of congestion relief with community values for aesthetics and quality of life. Policy C 2.3.1: Enhance community appearance through landscaping, street lighting, street furniture, bus shelters and benches, and other aspects of streetscape design within the right-of-way, where appropriate. Policy C 2.3.2: Encourage unified treatment of arterial streets within both City and County areas, while permitting flexibility of streetscape design between neighborhoods and districts to preserve village character. Policy C 2.3.3: When evaluating road widening projects, consider the impacts of additional traffic, noise, and fumes on adjacent land uses and use context - sensitive design techniques where appropriate. Policy C 2.3.4: Protect residential neighborhoods from cut -through traffic using local streets to avoid congested arterials, through use of street design and traffic control devices. Objective C 2.4: Allow trucks to utilize only major and secondary highways as through routes, to minimize impacts of truck traffic on surface streets and residential neighborhoods. C-67 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy C 2.4.1: Require design of pavement sections on major and secondary highways to account for truck traffic, to prevent excessive pavement deterioration from truck use. Policy C 2.4.2: Establish adequate setbacks from major and secondary highways for sensitive receptors and sensitive uses, so as to minimize impacts on these individuals and uses from noise and air pollution caused by truck traffic. Policy C 2.4.3: Prohibit through truck traffic on designated scenic routes. Policy C 2.4.4: Adopt regulations for truck parking on public streets, to avoid impacts to residential neighborhoods. Objective C 2.5: Consider the needs for emergency access in transportation planning. Policy C 2.5.1: Maintain a current evacuation plan as part of emergency response planning. Policy C 2.5.2: Ensure that new development is provided with adequate emergency and/or secondary access for purposes of evacuation and emergency response; require two points of ingress and egress for every subdivision or phase thereof, except as otherwise approved for small subdivisions where physical constraints preclude a second access point. Policy C 2.5.3: Require provision of visible street name signs and addresses on all development to aid in emergency response. Policy C 2.5.4: Provide directional signage to Interstate 5 and State Route 14 at key intersections in the Valley, to assist emergency evacuation operations. Objective C 2.6: Ensure that funding and phasing of new transportation improvements is coordinated with growth. Policy C 2.6.1: Require that new development construct transportation improvements or provide its fair share of the cost of transportation such improvements, and ensure that required improvements or in -lieu contributions are in place to support the development prior to occupancy. Policy C 2.6.2: Evaluate the feasibility of establishing a joint City/County Intelligent Transportation Management System (ITMS) impact fee for new development that is unable to otherwise mitigate its impacts to the roadway system through implementation of the adopted Highway Plan. Policy C 2.6.3: Coordinate with Caltrans and other local, regional, state and federal agencies in identifying and implementing funding alternatives for the Valley's transportation systems. Policy C 2.6.4: Coordinate road construction with improvements to other utility systems in the right-of-way. DRAFT May 2011 C-68 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Objective C 2.7: Pursue the safety, efficiency and tranquility of existing and future residential streets by properly planning for local, collector and arterial roadways and limiting residential driveway access onto collector or arterial roadways. Policy C.2.7.1: To the extent feasible, plan residential subdivisions with sufficient arterial and non -loaded collector streets so that projected traffic volumes on local residential streets with unrestricted driveway access remains below 2000 ADT. Policy C.2.7.2: Discourage direct driveway access onto collector streets within single family residential subdivisions. Limit driveway access from multi -family residential and commercial development onto collector streets to the extent possible. Policy C.2.7.3: Where feasible, design new residential subdivisions with more than 200 residential units with direct access to an existing arterial roadway or an existing non loaded collector street. Discourage new large residential subdivisions from having primary access through local neighborhood streets. Vehicle Trip Reduction Goal C 3: Reduction of vehicle trips and emissions through effective management of travel demand, transportation systems, and parking. Objective C 3.1: Promote the use of travel demand management strategies to reduce vehicle trips. Policy C 3.1.1: In evaluating new development projects, require trip reduction measures as feasible to relieve congestion and reduce air pollution from vehicle emissions. Policy C 3.1.2: Promote home -based businesses and live -work units as a means of reducing home -to -work trips. Policy C 3.1.3: Promote the use of flexible work schedules and telecommuting to reduce home to work trips. Policy C 3.1.4: Promote the use of employee incentives to encourage alternative travel modes to work. Policy C 3.1.5: Promote the use of van pools, car pools, and shuttles to encourage trip reduction. Policy C 3.1.6: Promote the provision of showers and lockers within businesses and employment centers, in order to encourage opportunities for employees to bicycle to work. Policy C 3.1.7: Encourage special event center operators to advertise and offer discounted transit passes with event tickets. C-69 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy C 3.1.8: Encourage special event center operators to advertise and offer discount on -site parking incentives to carpooling patrons, with four or more persons per vehicle. Objective C 3.2: Encourage reduction in airborne emissions from vehicles through use of clean vehicles and transportation system management. Policy C 3.2.1: Adopt clean vehicle purchase policies for City and County fleets. Policy C 3.2.2: Continue to enhance signal timing and synchronization to allow for free traffic flow, minimizing idling and vehicle emissions. Policy C 3.2.3: When available and feasible, provide opportunities and infrastructure to support use of alternative fuel vehicles and travel devices. Policy C 3.2.4: The City/County will encourage new commercial and retail developments to provide prioritized parking for electric vehicles and vehicles using alternative fuels. Objective C 3.3: Make more efficient use of parking and maximize economic use of land, while decreasing impervious surfaces in urban areas, through parking management strategies. Policy C 3.3.1: Evaluate parking standards and reduce requirements where appropriate, based on data showing that requirements are in excess of demand. Policy C 3.3.2: In pedestrian -oriented, high density mixed use districts, provide for common parking facilities to serve the district, where appropriate. Policy C 3.3.3: Promote shared use of parking facilities between businesses with complementary uses and hours, where feasible. Policy C 3.3.4: Within transit -oriented development projects, provide incentives such as higher floor area ratio and/or lower parking requirements for commercial development that provides transit and ride -share programs. Policy C 3.3.5: Encourage convenient short-term parking in high -activity areas, and all day parking at the periphery of the development areas. Policy C 3.3.6: In the development review process, prioritize direct pedestrian access between building entrances, sidewalks and transit stops, by placing parking behind buildings where possible, to the sides of buildings when necessary, and always away from street intersections. Policy C 3.3.7: Create parking benefit districts which invest meter revenues in pedestrian infrastructure and other public amenities wherever feasible. Policy C 3.3.8: Establish performance pricing of street parking, so that the costs are enough to promote frequent turnover with a goal to keep 15 percent of spaces empty at all times, wherever feasible. DRAFT May 2011 C-70 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Rail Service Goal C 4: Rail service to meet regional and inter -regional needs for convenient, cost-effective travel alternatives, which are fully integrated into the Valley's circulation systems and land use patterns. Objective C 4.1: Maximize the effectiveness of Metrolink's commuter rail service through provision of support facilities and land planning. Policy C 4.1.1: Develop permanent Metrolink facilities with an expanded bus transfer station and additional park -and -ride spaces at the Via Princessa station, or other alternative location as deemed appropriate to meet the travel needs of residents on the Valley's east side. Policy C 4.1.2: Coordinate with other agencies to facilitate extension of a passenger rail line from the Santa Clarita Station to Ventura County, which may be used for Metrolink service. Policy C 4.1.3: Continue to expand and improve commuter services, including park -and -ride lots, bicycle parking and storage, and waiting facilities, at all Metrolink stations. Policy C 4.1.4: Encourage the preservation of abandoned railroad right-of-way for future transportation facilities, where appropriate. Policy C 4.1.5: Work with other agencies to increase rail efficiency and public safety through street and track improvements, and grade separations where needs are identified. Policy C 4.1.6: Provide incentives to promote transit -oriented development near rail stations. Policy C 4.1.7: Facilitate coordination of planning for any future high speed regional rail systems in the Valley with Metrolink services. Policy C 4.1.8: Minimize impacts to passenger rail service and the community from any proposed increase to freight rail service through the Valley. Objective C 4.2: Access to a high speed rail system connecting the Santa Clarita Valley with other regions, and other regional rail service connections. Policy C 4.2.1: Continue to work with the Orange Line Development Authority (OLDA) to plan for development of an environmentally sensitive, high speed transportation system with a route through the Santa Clarita Valley, including a regional transit hub with associated infrastructure that would provide connections to the Los Angeles Basin, Palmdale Regional Airport, and other destinations. Policy C 4.2.2: Coordinate with other agencies as needed to facilitate planning for other high-speed rail alternatives in the Santa Clarita Valley. C-71 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Bus Transit Policy C 4.2.3: Promote and encourage the expansion of Amtrak Rail Service to the Santa Clarita Valley. Goal C 5: Bus transit service as a viable choice for all residents, easily accessible and serving destinations throughout the Valley. Objective C 5.1: Ensure that street patterns and design standards accommodate transit needs. Policy C 5.1.1: Require that new subdivisions provide for two means of access into and out of the development, in order to provide for transit access, where feasible. Policy C 5.1.2: For private gated communities, require the developer to accommodate bus access through the entry gate, or provide bus waiting facilities at the project entry with pedestrian connections to residential streets, where appropriate. Policy C 5.1.3: Consider the operational characteristics of buses when determining acceptable street designs, including grades and turning radii. Policy C 5.1.4: Provide for location of bus stops within '/4-mile of residential neighborhoods, and include paved bus waiting areas in street improvement plans wherever appropriate and feasible. Policy C 5.1.5: Locate and design bus turnouts to limit traffic obstruction and to provide sufficient merging length for the bus to re-enter the traffic flow. Policy C 5.1.6: Evaluate the feasibility of giving buses priority at signalized intersections to maintain transit service level standards, where appropriate. Objective C 5.2: Maximize the accessibility, safety, convenience, and appeal of transit stops. Policy C 5.2.1: Require paved waiting areas, accessible by paved walkways and reasonably direct pedestrian routes, for bus stops in new development; and provide for retrofitting of existing bus stops, where feasible and practicable. Policy C 5.2.2: Adopt and implement consistent design standards for use in both City and County areas for bus shelters, bus benches, trash receptacles, lighting, and other improvements for transit stops that are aesthetically pleasing and consistent with community character. Policy C 5.2.3: Adopt and implement common design standards for bus turnouts and merging lanes along arterial streets, in convenient, accessible locations. Policy C 5.2.4: Enhance way -finding signage along walkways and paseos to direct pedestrians to transit stops. DRAFT May 2011 C-72 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Policy C 5.2.5: Complementary transportation modes should be interconnected at intermodal transit centers, including provisions for bicycles on buses, bicycle parking at transit centers, and park -and -ride at transit stops. Objective C 5.3: Explore opportunities to improve and expand bus transit service. Policy C 5.3.1: Continue to provide fixed route service to significant activity areas and neighborhoods with moderate to high density, and serve low -density and rural areas with dial -a -ride, flexible fixed routes, or other transit services as deemed appropriate. Policy C 5.3.2: Promote concentrated development patterns in coordination with transit planning to maximize service efficiency and ridership. Policy C 5.3.3: Evaluate the feasibility of providing "fly -away" bus transit service to airports located at Burbank, Palmdale, and Los Angeles, and implement this program when warranted by demand. Policy C 5.3.4: Evaluate the feasibility of providing bus rapid transit (BRT) for key transit corridors when light -rail is not feasible or cost effective. Objective C 5.4: Provide adequate funding to expand transit services to meet the needs of new development in the Valley. Policy C 5.4.1: Establish transit impact fee rates that are based on the actual impacts of new development on the transit system, and regularly monitor and adjust these fees as needed to ensure adequate mitigation. Policy C 5.4.2: Evaluate the feasibility of establishing a joint City/County transit impact fee to equitably distribute the capital costs of transit system expansion to meet the needs of new development in both County and City areas of the Valley. Policy C 5.4.3: Seek funding for transit system expansion and improvement from all available sources, including local, state, and federal programs and grants. Bikeways Goal C 6: A unified and well -maintained bikeway system with safe and convenient routes for commuting, recreational use and utilitarian travel, connecting communities and the region. Objective C 6.1: Adopt and implement a coordinated master plan for bikeways for the Valley, including both City and County areas, to make bicycling an attractive and feasible mode of transportation. Policy C 6.1.1: For recreational riders, continue to develop Class I bike paths, separated from the right-of-way, linking neighborhoods to open space and activity areas. C-73 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy C 6.1.2: For long-distance riders and those who bicycle to work or services, provide striped Class II bike lanes within the right-of-way, with adequate delineation and signage, where feasible and appropriate. Policy C 6.1.3: Continue to acquire or reserve right-of-way and/or easements needed to complete the bicycle circulation system as development occurs. Policy C 6.1.4: Where inadequate right-of-way exists for Class I or II bikeways, provide signage for Class III bike routes or designate alternative routes as appropriate. Policy C 6.1.5: Plan for continuous bikeways to serve major destinations, including but not limited to regional shopping areas, college campuses, public buildings, parks, and employment centers. Objective C 6.2: Encourage provision of equipment and facilities to support the use of bicycles as an alternative means of travel. Policy C 6.2.1: Require bicycle parking, which can include bicycle lockers and sheltered areas at commercial sites and multi -family housing complexes for use by employees and residents, as well as customers and visitors. Policy C 6.2.2: Provide bicycle racks on transit vehicles to give bike -and -ride commuters the ability to transport their bicycles. Policy C 6.2.3: Promote the inclusion of services for bicycle commuters, such as showers and changing rooms, as part of the development review process for new development or substantial alterations of existing commercial or industrial uses, where appropriate. Pedestrian Circulation Goal C 7: Walkable communities, in which interconnected walkways provide a safe, comfortable and viable alternative to driving for local destinations. Objective C 7.1: A continuous, integrated system of safe and attractive pedestrian walkways, paseos and trails linking residents to parks, open space, schools, services, and transit. Policy C 7.1.1: In reviewing new development proposals, consider pedestrian connections within and between developments as an integral component of the site design, which may include seating, shading, lighting, directional signage, accessibility, and convenience. Policy C 7.1.2: For existing walled subdivisions, extend pedestrian access to connect these neighborhoods to transit and services through public education and by facilitating retrofitted improvements where feasible. Policy C 7.1.3: Where feasible and practical, consider grade separated facilities to provide pedestrian connections across arterial streets, flood control channels, utility easements, and other barriers. DRAFT May 2011 C-74 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation Policy C 7.1.4: Identify and develop an improvement program to connect existing walkways and paseos to transit and services, where needed and appropriate. Policy C 7.1.5: In new commercial development, provide for direct, clearly delineated, and preferably landscaped pedestrian walkways from transit stops and parking areas to building entries, and avoid placement of uses (such as drive -through facilities) in locations that would obstruct pedestrian pathways. Policy C 7.1.6: Encourage placement of building entries in locations accessible to public sidewalks and transit. Policy C 7.1.7: Utilize pedestrian -oriented scale and design features in areas intended for pedestrian use. Policy C 7.1.8: Upgrade streets that are not pedestrian -friendly due to lack of sidewalk connections, safe street crossing points, vehicle sight distance, or other design deficiencies. Policy C 7.1.9: Promote pedestrian -oriented street design through traffic - calming measures where appropriate, which may include but are not limited to bulb -outs or chokers at intersections, raised crosswalks, refuge islands, striping, and landscaping. Policy C 7.1.10: Continue to expand and improve the Valley's multi -use trail system to provide additional routes for pedestrian travel. PART 3: IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CIRCULATION ELEMENT The City of Santa Clarita will implement the goals, objectives and policies of the Circulation Element of the Santa Clarita Valley General Plan through the following actions. City of Santa Clarita City Task 1: Update and implement the Highway Plan 1.1 Amend the Highway Plan to reflect the OVOV Circulation Plan, consistent with the County's Highway Plan for the Santa Clarita Valley. 1.2 Adopt the standard street cross sections in the Circulation Plan, consistent with the County's street standards for the Santa Clarita Valley. 1.3 Ensure that all future street improvements conform to the adopted Highway Plan and street cross sections. 1.4 Continue to monitor traffic conditions within the planning area on an ongoing basis, and amend the Highway Plan and Circulation Element as needed to address changing needs and conditions. C-75 DRAFT May, 2011 Circulation City of Santa Clarita General Plan 1.5 As part of the review process for proposed development projects, require traffic studies where appropriate to evaluate impacts to the roadway network, and require improvements as needed to maintain acceptable service levels. 1.6 Continue to coordinate with Los Angeles County and other regional agencies to ensure orderly phasing of roadway improvements with new development as it occurs. 1.7 Continue to improve traffic operations through signal upgrades, striping, synchronization, and other improvements where needed. 1.8 Provide directional signage where needed to facilitate efficient traffic movement through the Valley, including freeway directional signs to 1-5 and SR 14 at key intersections to help lost travelers. City Task 2: Update and implement master plans for trails 2.1 Adopt the Valleywide Bikeway Plan in the Circulation Element (as it may be amended from time to time). 2.2 Implement the City's Non -Motorized Transportation Plan, adopted in 2008, as it may be amended from time to time. 2.3 Continue to require paseos, walkways, sidewalks, and trails within development projects as part of the approval process, consistent with adopted plans, special standards districts, and other applicable policies and regulations. 2.4 Through the design review process, require that development projects include facilities to encourage use of non -motorized travel modes for commuters, where appropriate. City Task 3: Implement circulation improvements through the Capital Improvement Program 3.1 Annually update the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to implement roadway improvements, trails, transit facilities, and other circulation facilities identified in the Circulation Element. 3.2 Annually review the CIP to ensure consistency with the General Plan including Circulation Element. 3.3 Ensure consistency with the Circulation Element for all transportation improvement projects, including right-of-way acquisition and roadway design. City Task 4: Promote multi -modal transportation solutions to regional circulation needs 4.1 During development review of new projects, require integration of multi -modal circulation systems as part of project designs, to the extent feasible. 4.2 Acquire right-of-way where needed for multi -modal transportation improvements. 4.3 Through the land planning process, including preparation and review of specific plans, promote mixed uses and higher densities in proximity to transit centers (including rail stations and bus transfer facilities). DRAFT May 2011 C-76 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Circulation 4.4 Through the regulatory and development review process, evaluate options for reducing the amount of land occupied by vehicle parking, which may include alternative parking options or flexible standards such as shared parking and off -site parking, where appropriate. 4.5 In coordination with Los Angeles County, develop and implement uniform or compatible design standards for bus turnouts, benches, shelters, lighting, and furniture at bus stops within the Santa Clarita Valley. 4.6 Plan for expansion of permanent commuter transit facilities to meet the City's needs, including park -and -ride lots, Metrolink stations, and ancillary facilities, incorporating these facilities in the CIP for programming of funds for site acquisition and construction. 4.7 Provide adequate funds for maintenance of commuter facilities in a safe and clean condition. City Task 5: Seek funding opportunities from all available sources for circulation improvements 5.1 Support construction of regional transportation improvements through joint funding programs and other efforts as appropriate. 5.2 Continue to actively participate on regional boards and commissions that address circulation needs and improvements. 5.3 Maintain consistency with regional plans, and complete all local plans needed to compete successfully for funding. 5.4 Continue to require new development to fund its fair share of transportation improvements, which may include construction or payment of impact fees. 5.5 The City and County shall work with Metro and Caltrans to study appropriate methodologies for determining new developments' project -level and cumulative impacts on freeways and how best to assess them for their fair share contributions to mitigate project -level impacts. C-77 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT DRAFT MAY 2011 INTRODUCTION The Santa Clarita Valley has long been recognized as one of Southern California's most sought- after residential communities. For years, the area was synonymous with family -friendly development tracts, small businesses, and was commonly referred to as the "community adjacent to Magic Mountain," which served as a foundational identifier and today is still an iconic symbol of the area. Recognized as one of the nation's top cities in which to live (CNN Money Magazine, 2006), Santa Clarita's emergence as an economic powerhouse is attributable to several factors, such as: visionary private and public sector leadership; strong linkages between education and industry; and the increasing number of large employers expanding within or relocating to the area. This Economic Development Element examines the many factors critical to the Santa Clarita Valley's continued success as one of Southern California's top communities for business development. The City of Santa Clarita and the adjacent unincorporated communities in Los Angeles County are focused on fostering a unique work -life balance for Santa Clarita Valley residents. Specifically the City of Santa Clarita has focused on three primary goals relating to economic development in the Santa Clarita Valley, including: 1) establishing a jobs/housing balance through quality employment opportunities for residents; 2) building an economic base for all communities through increased sales tax generation; and 3) developing economic wealth in the Santa Clarita Valley by attracting external monies to the economy. This Element addresses key goals of these communities as they relate to the economic prosperity of the Santa Clarita Valley. It looks at the area's strengths, the programs and organizations fueling the Santa Clarita Valley's economic growth and success, and the opportunities and challenges unique to the burgeoning Valley. The primary objectives of the Economic Development Element are to: • Provide an overview of the past, existing, and future economic conditions and challenges in Santa Clarita; • Emphasize the importance of community collaborations, information sharing, and data collection as they relate to identifying and working within current and future economic trends in the Santa Clarita Valley and Los Angeles County region; • Give direction for business attraction efforts within the City of Santa Clarita's targeted industry sectors; • Provide direction with regard to land use, redevelopment, and planning efforts as they relate to the economic wellbeing and development of Santa Clarita; and • Underscore the use and importance of economic development programs and initiatives, both state and local, in business attraction and retention efforts. E-1 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development The Economic Development Element is consistent with the other elements contained in One Valley One Vision. Circulation Element: The Economic Development Element promotes an increase of jobs in order to have a desirable jobs/housing balance that will result in fewer and shorter vehicular trips. Noise Element: Promoting uses that will result in fewer vehicular trips will reduce ambient noise levels and results in the Economic Development Element being consistent with the Noise Element. Land Use Element: The Economic Development Element illustrates the community benefits of mixed -use developments and emphasis the proper balance of residential and non-residential developments. Mixed -use projects and their characteristics are covered at length in the Land Use Element. Housing Element: The Economic Development Element encourages vibrant employment centers and jobs throughout the City that will result in income levels that will allow employees to live in the City at many of the broad range of housing types identified in the Housing Element. Open Space/Conservation Element: The Economic Development Element identifies cultural and recreational events and opportunities that support the goals and objectives of the Open Space/Conservation Element. Safety Element: Goals and programs in the Economic Development Element are consistent with the Safety Element. ECONOMIC BACKGROUND The Santa Clarita Valley has many unique attributes. This formerly small town community was once home to a variety of agricultural fields and orchards, yet now boasts some of the biggest names in business, thriving retail centers, destination dining and attractions, and bustling transit systems. The story of the Santa Clarita Valley began about the time of the California Gold Rush. Henry Mayo Newhall of Saugus, Massachusetts was 24 and already a successful auctioneer when, in 1849, he joined thousands who rushed to California to find gold. Unsuccessful in the gold fields, his talents as an auctioneer and later involvement in San Francisco's first railroad paid off. Mr. Newhall invested his earnings in ranches throughout California. With his death in 1882, Newhall left his five sons six California ranches totaling 143,000 acres. The brothers incorporated their inheritance as The Newhall Land and Farming Company on July 1, 1883. E-2 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development In the late 1950s, California's growth rate and the Los Angeles economy were booming. Urban development began moving northward into the Santa Clarita Valley. About this time members of the Newhall family chose to build a "new town" — a balanced community named Valencia. The Valencia Master Plan was drafted in the early 1960s with the creative guidance of renowned urban planner Victor Gruen and the Los Angeles County planning director. The Master Plan was reviewed by the Los Angeles County Regional Planning Commission in 1965 and included the development of the future Westfield Valencia Town Center and "Magic Mountain," which today remains one of Southern California's premier theme parks. The park opened in 1971, providing jobs for area residents, while also attracting regional visitors to the area. Small business continued to define the Santa Clarita Valley, with Newhall and Valencia serving as key business centers. Most residents traveled out of the Valley for work, into employment centers like Burbank, downtown Los Angeles, and the San Fernando Valley. In the coming decades, the Valencia Master Plan took shape, with the development of Town Center Drive and the Valencia Industrial Center. These areas provided new office space at a competitive rate for Los Angeles -based businesses looking to expand in the market. The Santa Clarita Valley provided a wide variety of housing types for workers, which was becoming increasingly difficult to find. Educational institutions fueled the continued development of the Santa Clarita Valley as well, attracting intellectuals from across the nation. College of the Canyons, renowned arts college California Institute of the Arts, and The Master's College added to the appeal of the transitioning community. In 1987, the City of Santa Clarita was formed, as a large number of business, residential, and political leaders sought control of the community. The Santa Clarita Valley was home to a variety of passionate leaders who sought to make the community the best it could be for residents and business owners. These activists took action through business -based organizations like the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce, which today remains one of the largest and most active chambers in California. The communities of Valencia, Saugus, Newhall, and Canyon Country joined to become the City of Santa Clarita, currently the fourth largest city in Los Angeles County. As Santa Clarita grew, so did the infrastructure. Visionary developers like Newhall Land recognized the business potential of the community and began laying the foundation for one of Los Angeles County's largest centers for commerce and industry. Two of Santa Clarita's largest business areas include the Valencia Gateway and the Centre Pointe Business Park, which includes Class A office space. E-3 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development Valencia Gateway Valencia Gateway is the largest master planned center for business, technology, and industry in the County of Los Angeles. Encompassing more than 4,700 acres, 22.5 million square feet of building space, 1,400 companies, and 41,500 employees, Valencia Gateway includes the following seven business parks: • Valencia Industrial Center • Valencia Commerce Center • Rye Canyon Business Park • Valencia Corporate Center • Gateway Corporate Point • Town Center Drive • Highridge Business Park The prime location of these areas make the Valencia Gateway a sought-after place to do business in the Santa Clarita Valley, with flagship brands like Princess Cruises, Cunard, Westfield, MannKind Corporation, Advanced Bionics and hundreds of other successful companies occupying spaces in this area. Centre Pointe Business Park Centre Pointe Business Park, a 240-acre master planned business is the eighth existing master planned business park in Santa Clarita. At buildout, Centre Pointe Business Park could provide more than 4.5 million square feet, 180 companies and 7,000 employees. As the City of Santa Clarita continues to expand the area's diverse base of business, these employment centers will serve as key attractors and choice places in which to do business. CURRENT ECONOMIC CLIMATE Economic Recession In December 2007, the United States was officially deemed as being in a recession. Experts from across the globe watched as the world's superpower lost signature industries to other countries, jobs, and domestic and international consumer confidence. Categorized by many as the worst recession since World War II, America, and now much of the world, is battling with the effects of the housing market bust, the deterioration of the credit and banking industries, stock market losses, and staggering unemployment rates. While signs of recovery began to take shape in late 2009, many economists anticipate the national recession will continue will into 2011 and possibly beyond. Los Angeles County/Southern California Region The Santa Clarita Valley, like so many other communities across the country, is finding successes and challenges amidst the national recession. Located less than 30 minutes from Bob Hope Airport in North Los Angeles County, the Santa Clarita Valley is a major component of the Los Angeles landscape. According to the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), Los Angeles County will experience the effects of the United States recession through 2009, and well into 2010 and beyond. The California budget crisis could result in a loss of more than $300 million in funding to Los Angeles County alone in FY 09/10, eliminating projects and E-4 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development programming. On a City level, the state's budget woes could result in more than a $4 million budget decrease in FY 09/10, as legislators aim to fix the projected $42 billion deficit projected. A total of 100,000 jobs were possibly shed in Los Angeles County by the end of 2009 according to LAEDC. Santa Clarita Valley The Santa Clarita Valley is better positioned for post -recession recovery than most communities in California and across the United States. While the area was not immune to the challenges resulting from the national recession, Santa Clarita experienced less severe downturns than other Southern California cities like Palmdale, Lancaster, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Thousand Oaks, Ventura, and Santa Ana, according to a Brookings report release in June 2009. Residential real estate is an area of concern for the Santa Clarita Valley. Median home prices for single-family units dropped from $433,500 in September 2008 to $410,000 in September 2009. Sales of single-family homes decreased 9 percent between September 2008 and September 2009 and condominium sales decline 27 percent during that time period. While net absorption of industrial space was negative 6,000 square feet in the third quarter of 2009, the area's office space experienced a positive net absorption of 62,600 square feet, making Santa Clarita one of the only markets in the region to experience positive net absorption for office space in the third quarter of 2009. Sales tax revenue was down 20 percent in second quarter 2009, and projections for the remainder of the year include decreases due to the weakening retail market. Sales tax projections remain conservative through the end of 2009 and into 2010, with economists forecasting a slow recovery in 2010 and beyond. According to the California Economic Development Department, the Santa Clarita Valley was fortunate to boast an unemployment rate of seven point nine percent for September 2009, one of the lowest in the Los Angeles area, and below the State's 12.0 percent. It is important to note the current unemployment rate is still double the area's historic average of about three percent. Unemployment rates for September 2009 were as follows: o California State 12.0%; o Los Angeles County 12.7%; o Glendale 11.1 %; o Lancaster 17.1 %; o Los Angeles 14.0%; o Palmdale 15.7%; o Pasadena 9.7%; and o Santa Clarita 7.9%. In April 2009, the City of Santa Clarita City Council approved a 21-Point Business Plan for Progress business stimulus plan. The comprehensive plan directed City staff to implement new programs and aggressively pursue and use Federal stimulus dollars in the local community, resulting in an overall investment of more than $18 million in new programs and incentives aimed at boosting the Santa Clarita Valley economy. E-5 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development Economic Base of the City in Targeted Sectors The City of Santa Clarita has targeted four main industry clusters for expansion in Santa Clarita including — Entertainment, Aerospace, Biomedical, and Technology. These industry sectors were identified in the Alfred Gobar Associates 2005 Labor Market Study. While a continued effort to target these industries to Santa Clarita is a key strategy, it is understood that today's world is rapidly changing. As such, an effort to continually refine the process by which we support these industries and the reeducation tools available will be continually analyzed and modified to support the economic goals of Santa Clarita. Entertainment The Santa Clarita Valley is one of Hollywood's most filmed communities. In the early 1900s, the silver screen's most popular movie stars filmed in Santa Clarita, including Charlie Chaplin and Tom Mix. Singing cowboy Gene Autry built Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio in Placerita Canyon, while William S. Hart built his mansion atop a hillside in Newhall. Today, the Santa Clarita Valley is home to more than 20 soundstages, 10 movie ranches, hundreds of businesses specializing in film -related work, and boasts a talented workforce of nearly 7,000 professionals who work in the film and entertainment industry. The Santa Clarita Valley sees an average of 3+ film productions filming on location everyday, and is a favored "home" to network programming from studios like CBS, Nickelodeon, Disney, HBO, and ABC Family. Each year location filming alone results in millions in economic benefit to the local economy, with a projected $20+ million in Fiscal Year `08-`09 to Santa Clarita Valley businesses. In 2002, the City of Santa Clarita formed its own Film Office, coordinating all permitting for location filming within the City's limits. While the City is limited by jurisdiction to regulate filming only within its boundaries, the Film Office takes a holistic approach to attraction and retention of filming, promoting the entire Santa Clarita Valley as an ideal place to work. In 2009, as part of the City of Santa Clarita's City Council approved 21-Point Business Plan for Progress, the City instituted the Los Angeles area's first Film Incentive Program (FIP), providing subsidized permit fees and a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) rebate for film companies using City hotels. The program was designed to capitalize on the momentum created by the State of California's $100 million incentive aimed at feature film and television production, and is expected to help support the existing film business in the Santa Clarita Valley, while attracting media attention and potentially increased programming. Another boost to the area's reputation of being a film friendly community, Disney/ABC studios announced that they applied to L.A. County to develop "Studios at the Ranch," a 56-acre, state- of-the-art sound studio project. This project is expected to create over 2,800 new jobs and have an economic impact of over $533 million. Aerospace The Los Angeles region is still home to a thriving piece of the aerospace industry with several large companies doing business in the Santa Clarita Valley. Major employers such as Aerospace Dynamics, ITT Aerospace Technologies, Donaldson's Aerospace and Defense Group, and Woodward HRT, formerly HR Textron, are based in Santa Clarita and enjoy the quality of life and unique business and educational partnership the community affords. The aerospace enterprises located in Santa Clarita supply products for both defense and commercial aerospace projects and are highly competitive in receiving government contracts. This includes both general manufacturing as well as highly sophisticated advanced manufacturing. These companies work hand in hand with College of the Canyons to train new employees, building the Santa Clarita Valley's skilled workforce from the ground up. E-6 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development Biomedical MannKind Corporation found a home in Santa Clarita more than a decade ago, and in the years following, several big -name companies have followed suit, relocating company headquarters to the Valley. The Santa Clarita Valley is home to more than 1,100 biotechnology jobs, with more on the way, as companies like Mann Biomedical, Advanced Bionics, Quest Diagnostics, Boston Scientific, BioNess, Celestis, and others relocate to or expand within the area. The enterprises located in Santa Clarita engage in development as well as device manufacturing. The businesses tend to be more heavily oriented towards implantable device and instrument manufacturing versus the wet lab "biotech" type facilities. Technology Santa Clarita is focused on training its local workforce for technology jobs through programs like the i3 Advanced Technology Incubator Program at College of the Canyons, which provides entrepreneurs with the resources and tools to successfully build and launch technology -based companies. Santa Clarita has proven to be a strong business community for this sector, with companies like Advanced Motorsports Technology, Neotech Products, Transparent Products, True Position Technologies, and Stellar Micro Electronics operating offices or corporate headquarters in the Santa Clarita Valley. Based on survey responses found in the Alfred Gobar Associates Labor Market Study, nearly 18 percent of the active workforce (or about 22,300 workers) are currently employed within the four target industries. Developing Quality Jobs According to a 2005 published Labor Market Study by Alfred Gobar Associates, total employment in the Santa Clarita Valley has increased by an average 3,800 jobs per year since 2000. (See Exhibit ED 1 below). However, as the economy weakened between 2007 and 2009, job growth slowed throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. By 2008, approximately 950 new wage and salary jobs were added to the Santa Clarita economy, representing +1.1 percent growth according to First American Title's 2009 Real Estate and Economic Outlook. Even with the slower growth, Santa Clarita's pace is still one of the fastest areas compared to other California regions. Furthermore, job growth in North Los Angeles County still exceeds the rate of job growth in greater Los Angeles County, which experienced negative growth in 2008. Northern Los Angeles County labor markets have grown at a faster rate than Los Angeles County every year since 1997. E-7 DRAFT May, 2011 0 N T (6 H n i Cb w City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development Building Santa Clarita's Local Business Community According to the 2005 Labor Market Study by Alfred Gobar Associates, more than 53 percent of all workers, or approximately 65,800 residents, leave the Santa Clarita Valley on a daily basis to commute to work. This suggests that Santa Clarita's attraction as an emerging employment center not only draws from the local labor force population but also attracts workers from out of the area. A 2004 labor market study of the Antelope Valley region revealed roughly 9,000 workers residing in this sub -region commute to jobs in the Santa Clarita area. As the Santa Clarita Valley's business attraction continues to grow and more high -paying, high-level jobs become available, it is expected some of these jobs will be absorbed by the local workforce, as well as workers commuting from neighboring communities. These workers will seek out employment in the Santa Clarita Valley because similar type positions may not be available in their region. Exhibit ED 2: Travel Time for Target Industry Workers vs. All Workers An An W& !,A gG 20% 3 i4 Vh OL .. ;', nuG TO 1ho" K i O.Y1PkFaa M4 ALLMRMGA4 L-.*T11(rY mW a, Ye "M "MI. V V YlR1 p.rrtpwe According to the Labor Market Study, nearly 22 percent of the Santa Clarita workforce, or about 27,000 workers, are very likely to change jobs to reduce time spent traveling to work. These workers constitute a very substantial pool of local workers with a strong likelihood of pursuing jobs offered by businesses relocating or expanding in the area. The City of Santa Clarita is focused on attracting an increasing number of high paying, high quality jobs to the Santa Clarita Valley, thereby supporting opportunities for residents to work close to home. To that end, the City should continue pursuing businesses in the Southern California region to either expand within or relocate to the Santa Clarita Valley. Specifically, the City should focus on attracting businesses in the four targeted sectors, as well as lifestyle, manufacturing, tourism, retail, and green industries among others, to help build a strong economic base and increased job opportunities. Exhibit ED 3 below shows key feeder cities for business potentially relocating to the Santa Clarita Valley. E-9 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development Exhibit ED 3: Origin City for Businesses Relocating to Santa Clarita LmrLm ce 416GIN {I7Y = Zr! R i l IXALTi X Cc TO 2Wrik r., ACA Cd Workforce Nearly 38 percent of the workforce in the City of Santa Clarita is employed in the services sector. An additional 25 percent of the City's workforce is employed in retail trade followed by nine percent in manufacturing, eight percent in construction, seven percent in finance/insurance, and real estate industries, and six percent in wholesale trade. Twenty six percent of the City of Santa Clarita's workforce is concentrated in professional or specialized positions while another 21 percent are in administrative and support positions, 14 percent are in marketing or sales, and 11 percent are in executive roles. One-third, or 32 percent, of Santa Clarita Valley's manufacturing workforce is employed in aerospace with an additional 18 percent in computers and electronics and 14 percent in biomedical manufacturing. See Exhibit ED 4 below. According to the 2005 Labor Market Study, about one-fourth of all resident workers are engaged in their respective industry activity as "Professionals" or "Specialists" (teachers, engineers, chemists, physicians, computer analysts, clergy, artists, etc.). Approximately one -fifth of resident workers are employed in "Executive" or "Managerial" positions (chief administrators, directors, division heads, managers, etc.). Overall, about 42 percent of resident workers occupy moderate- to high -skill positions directly related to the performance objectives of a given company or agency. Exhibit ED 4: 2005 Worker Occupation Skills 2005 WORKER OCCUPATION SKILLS Prote xive Hass 1 Technical Services3,,_ Suppad Sevices t3% Operatarsi Assemblers 3% Precision Product W Rena r a% Manor-5Wpnr' Executive! Manageral hEarkef<ag1 tg% S �tes 16% _ ou ce: Affmd Go[— Asm aces 2OD5 Labor Market Survey E-10 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development The active workforce living in the Santa Clarita area is highly educated. More than 50 percent of all workers have completed a college education. Active workers with no more than a high school education account for 20 percent of the workforce. A high level of educational achievement, including a college degree, is evident across the entire workforce, with 56 percent of the area's full time workers (82 percent of the population works full-time) and 53 percent of part-time workers (18 percent of the population works part-time) boasting higher education. Source: Alfred Gobar Associates 2005 Labor Market Study. Major Employers in the Santa Clarita Valley The 2005 Labor Market Study by Alfred Gobar Associates indicated that Santa Clarita's local economy is primarily a service -based economy with 41 percent of the businesses in the service sector. An additional 21 percent of businesses are in retail trade and 10 percent each are in the finance, insurance, and real estate sector as well as construction. The businesses located in Santa Clarita can be categorized as small businesses with 59 percent employing less than five employees. Businesses between five and nine employees account for 19 percent of all businesses and only five percent employ in excess of 50 employees. The table below details the major employers in the Santa Clarita Valley, including the type of business and the number of employees. Major Employers in Santa Clarita Valley Company Type of Business Employees Six Flags Magic Mountain Theme Park 3,689 William S. Hart Union School District Public High & Junior High School District2,455 Princess Cruises Vacation Cruise Line Services 2,100 Saugus Union School District Public Elementary School District 2,010 U.S. Postal Service U.S. Postal Service 1,790 College of the Canyons Community College 1,678 Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital Healthcare Services 1,212 Woodward HRT (formerly HR Textron) Aerospace Manufacturer 845 Newhall School District Public Elementary School District 836 The Master's College Christian Liberal Arts College 755 Specialty Laboratories Medical Research & Development 725 City of Santa Clarita Government Agency 95 rvato Digital Services Business Services 586 California Institute of the Arts Private Art School 500 Aerospace Dynamics Aerospace Structural Components 420 Fanfare Media Works International Printing & Publishing 07 Advanced Bionics Medical Device Manufacturing 375 Source: Santa Clarita Valley— Real Estate and Economic Outlook Cost of Doing Business in the City of Santa Clarita The following data was derived from the 2007 "Cost of Doing Business" report based on an independent study of 402 cities across the United States by the Kosmont-Rose Institute, as E-11 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development shown in Exhibit ED 5. The cost ratings were developed in order to compare different communities based analysis of fees, taxes, and economic incentives and programs. Santa Clarita is ranked as Average Cost ($$$) compared to the cities of Los Angeles and Pasadena, which are both ranked as Very High Cost ($$$$$). Exhibit ED 5: Kosmont-Rose Institute Cost of Doing Business Survey BELL CLAREMON I y40'_i RO.^ COMPTON CO'VINA MDN TE3E L_ O C:UDAHY DCC.WEY PALMDALE CULVER CITY EL SEGUNDO KO SER[EAD EL MONTE GARDENA SANTA CLAIZI HASi 17HDRN E GLENDALE SANTA TE SPF= : HUNIINGTOW.ARK INDUSTRY SOUTH GATE. INGLE.WOOD LA VE.RNE VERNON IRR7d,iDArE LAIGNDALE WALNUT LOS AZGELES LONG BEACH WEST HOLLYWOOD Li'' '%VOOD MANHATTAN BEACH MAYl � DOD MOti TEREY PARK PASADENA N ORWALK A GOI: RA HILLS PICO RIVEE,RA PARAMOUNT BELL GARDENS POMONA SAN FERNANDO CERRITOS REDONDO BEACH. SAN GABRIEL DIAMOND BAR SANTA MONICA TORRANCE GLENDORA U-p. L.OS ANGELES CO. LA LUR ADA. WHITTIER LA PUENTE ALHAMBRA SAN DII AS ARCADIA SIGNAL HILL AZUSA CARSON TENIPL.E CITY BALDik1PI PARK COMMERCE WEST CD'OM! BELLFLO:BER LAKEWOOD BEVEKLYHILLS LANCASTER. =ZB: _`.,—{ L03fff.`_ W ESTLAKE VILLAGE C AL�.BASA] IV. OVERVIEW OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TRENDS The 2007 Cost of Doing Business Survey rates each city as: Very Low Cost ($) Low Cost ($$) Average Cost ($$$) High Cost ($$$$) Very High Cost ($$$$$). The 2007 Survey identified; 80 very low cost ($) cities; 80 low cost ($$) cities; 82 average cost ($$$) cities; 80 high cost ($$$$) cities; and 80 very high cost ($$$$$) cities. Santa Clarita is poised for positive, prosperous business development in the decades ahead. As one of Los Angeles County's largest and growing cities (source: State Department of Finance), Santa Clarita will be a major factor in business development. The following are brief summations of the economic principles the City of Santa Clarita considers when developing economic development policies and procedures. Business Competition Today's business environment has become increasingly competitive, with manufacturing and technology based companies and jobs leaving California for other cities, states, and countries at a higher rate. Increased global competition has made doing business in California and specifically Los Angeles County nearly unprofitable in some instances. In order to maintain the industries currently in the region, the City of Santa Clarita continues to offer business incentives, be it state tax incentive programs like the Enterprise Zone and streamlined permitting processes, to an unparalleled and well -trained workforce. Employment & Projected Needs Employment in the Santa Clarita Valley is forecast to decline by 1.1 percent in 2009. Between 2010 and 2013, job growth is projected to average 2.6 percent per year in the Santa Clarita Valley. The employment forecast called for a loss of 950 jobs in 2009, followed by the annual average creation of 2,300 new wage and salary jobs in the Santa Clarita Valley between 2010 and 2013. With an expanding population over the next five years, a larger skill set will characterize the Santa Clarita Valley workforce, continuing to make the area more attractive to E-12 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development potential employers. There are few impediments that would inhibit healthy job growth over the next several years. One of those potential impediments has been the slowdown of housing production. As the housing market improves after 2009, it is expected that population growth will accelerate along with job growth. (Source: First American Title 2009 Real Estate and Economic Outlook) Between 2006 and 2014, the City of Santa Clarita is required by the State of California to provide land use designations that could accommodate 10,000 new homes, or approximately 30,000 new residents. With the goal of developing two jobs for every household (see jobs/housing balance in Section V), the City endeavors to attract 20,000 new jobs to the area in the next five years to meet projected growth estimates. Development Process The City of Santa Clarita recognizes the development permit process can be cumbersome. The City of Santa Clarita sought the opinions and recommendations of developers, brokers, and investors in the Santa Clarita Valley and Los Angeles area to identify potential issues as they relate to the City's development process. The City is currently looking at ways to make this process more easily understood, streamlined, and customer service oriented, including the addition of a business development liaison, implementation of an online permit submission and review process, and fee review. These efforts should be done in such a way that all City codes are met, while addressing the concerns of developers and business owners wherever possible, thereby making Santa Clarita a good place to do business. Economic Growth The City of Santa Clarita is continuing to experience population growth, about 0.6 percent in 2008 according to the State Department of Finance. This is much slower growth than in previous years, but the City of Santa Clarita must continue to attract high -paying, high quality jobs to the area to support the growth of the City's population. As discussed in Section III (Current Economic Climate), many of the City's residents are traveling to neighboring cities for work, because there are not enough jobs available in the City matching the skills of residents. To this end, the City of Santa Clarita must focus on creating a quality jobs/housing balance, attracting companies in the targeted industry sectors to ensure the needs of the community and its residents are met. Education Developing an educated workforce is a high priority for the City of Santa Clarita. City leaders recognize this process begins early, with a significant investment in the public school system. Santa Clarita is proudly one of Southern California's most sought-after communities because of its quality educational offerings, with schools ranking among the top 10 percent in California based on the California Assessment Program. Santa Clarita is comprised of the William S. Hart Union School District, Newhall School District, Sulphur Springs School District, and Saugus Union School District, all of which boasts Blue Ribbon and California Distinguished schools. The City of Santa Clarita is also home to three prestigious secondary learning universities, including the world-renowned California Institute of the Arts, founded in 1961 by Walt and Roy Disney as the nation's first art institute granting undergraduate and graduate degrees in both the visual and performing arts. The Santa Clarita Valley also houses The Master's College, a faith - based institution offering an inter -denominational Christian education inclusive of comprehensive instruction in the liberal arts tradition. College of the Canyons, one of the premier community colleges in the California offering Associate degrees, certificate and career prep programs in over 100 disciplines is also located in Santa Clarita. College of the Canyons E-13 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development also hosts The University Center, offering access to bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees from both public and private universities in a new, state of the art facility located on the Valencia campus. Government The City of Santa Clarita, since incorporation in 1987, has embraced a pro -business philosophy of "what is good for business is good for Santa Clarita." This has differentiated the City from many others in the Los Angeles region, as many of the City's policies were designed with a balanced approach, looking at the unique needs of the private sector, residents, and government regulations. The City was at the forefront of the "pro -business" trend and was named the Most Business Friendly City is Los Angeles County in 2008. The City is working to maintain its position as one of the most business -friendly communities in California. Infrastructure Santa Clarita is an ideal business center, with ease of access into and out of Los Angeles County, Ventura County, and the Antelope Valley. Interstate 5 provides the main points of access from the Los Angeles region, while State Route 14 serves as the main arterial from the Antelope Valley. The City of Santa Clarita considers infrastructure improvements to be one of the most important investments within the community, with multi -million dollar projects like the Cross Valley Connector designed to ease traffic flow from east to west throughout the City. The City of Santa Clarita will and should continue to look at infrastructure projects supporting ease of traffic flow both throughout the Santa Clarita Valley and into and out of the Los Angeles, Ventura, and Antelope Valley regions. V. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES, PRACTICES, AND POLICIES Jobs/Housing Balance The jobs/housing balance is the relationship between the number of jobs a community offers compared to the number of housing units needed to support those jobs. The Santa Clarita Valley has been housing rich for decades, meaning the number of housing units available exceeded the number of jobs available to residents. The mid -year 2005 jobs -housing (household) ratio, according to the Alfred Gobar Labor Market Study, in the Santa Clarita area is estimated at approximately 1.04 wage and salary jobs per household. As a result, more than half of the residents in the Santa Clarita Valley currently commute outside the area for employment, resulting in increased air pollution, congested highways, streets and freeways, and decreased quality of life for residents. This also means there are not enough jobs available to residents in the fields in which they are trained/educated. The City of Santa Clarita seeks to enhance the quality of life enjoyed by residents and has an aggressive goal to achieve a jobs/housing balance of 2:1, meaning it seeks to approve and support projects that create two jobs for every new household, providing opportunities for residents to work closer to home. In addition to focusing on the jobs/housing balance within the City limits, the City of Santa Clarita must also continue to work with the County of Los Angeles to monitor the approval of housing developments just outside the City limits in unincorporated Los Angeles County. These developments play a critical role in the balance of jobs in the Santa Clarita Valley, and as a E-14 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development community it is important to be mindful that development in these areas should also include business attraction to support the resident population. If this is not monitored, the Santa Clarita Valley will continue to see a disproportionate jobs/housing imbalance. More importantly, the City of Santa Clarita is focused on attracting the kind of companies suited for the Santa Clarita Valley's workforce, meaning jobs in the four targeted industry sectors and those outlined in this Element. One of the City of Santa Clarita's biggest goals in pursuing the jobs/housing balance is to attract more high -paying, high -quality jobs and develop new high -paying, high -quality positions. This means working with businesses and companies already based in the area to expand and bring new jobs to Santa Clarita, relocation of companies to the City, and support of business start ups looking to launch a new company in the area. To help accomplish this goal, the City of Santa Clarita will focus on the area's targeted industry clusters, which include aerospace, technology, biomedical, and film/entertainment. The industries already have a strong base of business in the area and the Valley boasts trained and qualified professionals ready to meet the needs of these unique industries. In addition to attracting businesses in the targeted industries, the area would benefit from additional business parks in the area, such as the Gate -King Industrial Park, a fully entitled project, planned for Sierra Highway and Newhall Avenue. A majority of the business parks in the Santa Clarita Valley are located in Valencia or on the west side, a fact attributable to the master planning of Valencia by the Newhall Land and Farming Company. In addition to reducing the number of Valley residents commuting daily out of the area for employment, reduction in intra-Valley commuting times is also desired. This will require that a range of housing types, as well as a range of employment opportunities are located within each of the villages throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, providing residents the ability to live in proximity to their workplace. In an ideal jobs/housing balance, worker commute time is less than 30 minutes, and jobs are easily accessible via existing public transportation or within walking distance. This helps to reduce congestion and commute times, improve air quality in the Santa Clarita Valley, and enhance the quality of life. Workforce Development The City of Santa Clarita should continue to work with local educational institutions, employers, real estate developers and others to review changes in Santa Clarita's workforce needs and anticipate changes occurring in employment demands. Together with these groups the City can promote job training, skill enhancement, and education meeting the needs of jobs and careers available within the Santa Clarita Valley. Development Objectives Available land and space, close proximity to Los Angeles, and burgeoning business and residential communities make the Santa Clarita Valley a first choice for jobs -producing development in Los Angeles County. The City should seek out a balanced mix of businesses in its attraction efforts, including but not limited to, commercial, retail, cultural, entertainment, and service offerings. In order to build a sustainable community for not only now, but for the future, the City of Santa Clarita must be forward thinking when looking at proposed developments. E-15 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development Specifically, the City of Santa Clarita will continue to evaluate each development proposal on its individual merits, thereby allowing flexibility for economic generating and jobs -producing uses. This means: • Seeking multi -story, clustered business parks and centers akin to those found in the Valencia Town Center area; • Encouraging multi -story, mixed use developments through the City of Santa Clarita's communities, including Saugus, Newhall, Canyon Country, and Valencia as appropriate; • Allowing development standards and policies that accommodate multiple economic activities in business and industrial park areas; • Encouraging business opportunities throughout all facets of the community, supporting burgeoning villages of industry throughout the Santa Clarita Valley; and • Applying non-traditional height, design, and planning standards for appropriate projects and uses that generate significant impact to the economy. • Encouraging increased density in nonresidential projects in appropriate locations to increase quality jobs and achieve the desired jobs -housing balance. Retail Growth and Attraction Since 1987, the City of Santa Clarita has experienced significant growth in the retail market. The City of Santa Clarita consistently ranks among one of the top 25 retail markets in California according to the California Retail Survey, and is a top choice for retailers looking to reach a high -income, highly -educated segment of the Southern California population. The Santa Clarita Valley is ripe with retail opportunities, and includes several developed retail centers with leasing opportunities. Most significant is the recent expansion of the Westfield Valencia Town Center, which includes the addition of more than 180,000 square feet of new retail space. Bridgeport Marketplace at Newhall Ranch Road and McBean Parkway, Centre Pointe Business Park off Soledad Canyon Road, and the Plaza at Golden Valley Ranch, which is accessible off State Route 14, offer competitive leasing rates and visibility for retailers. The City of Santa Clarita's retail attraction efforts will continue to be a focus in the years to come. Residents and businesses have requested several key brands for Santa Clarita, including but not limited to Nordstrom, Cheesecake Factory, Marmalade Cafe, Coach, Bebe, and more. One significant point to be made is these retailers require an increase in the number of large companies occupying Class A type office space, thereby supporting the daily demand for these businesses, before they will locate in Santa Clarita. Santa Clarita is successful in delivering a strong dinner crowd for restaurants, but some big -name restaurants are hesitant to expand in the Santa Clarita Valley without an increased number of companies boasting an employee base in excess of 500 executives who use their services during lunch time. Class A Office Space Class A office space is typically referred to as the highest quality office space available in an area. Characteristics defining Class A space include newer buildings in premium locations, qualities amenities, unmatched architecture and design appeal, and convenient customer access. These types of commercial developments are highly sought-after and typically attract tenants concerned about the aesthetics of the space. Class A is often located in dense development areas, and is in high demand. In 2007, the City of Santa Clarita saw the addition of nearly 400,000 square feet of Class A office space, with more than 60,000 square feet in the development process. E-16 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development In early 2009, office vacancy rates were about 18.2 percent in the Santa Clarita Valley according to CoStar. The City of Santa Clarita seeks to increase the amount of Class A office space available in all communities within the Santa Clarita Valley. Development of this type of office space is highly concentrated in Valencia, but should be expanded within the areas of Canyon Country, Newhall, and Saugus, supporting the City's goals of building a valley of villages and meeting an ideal jobs/housing balance for Santa Clarita. Embracing a Business Friendly Approach Businesses thrive in business friendly communities. The City of Santa Clarita is one of Southern California's most successful and sought-after cities, consistently recognized regionally and nationally as a best -choice place to live and work. Recognitions include: • Los Angeles County's Most Business Friendly City, Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation; • Best Economic Development Program in the State of CA, California Association of Local Economic Developers; • Best Place to Live in California, CNN Money Magazine; • One of the Top 25 City Retail Markets in California, California Retail Survey; and • One of the Best Economies in Los Angeles County, Union Bank. The City of Santa Clarita should continue to embrace business -friendly policies that allow companies to thrive, while embracing a high quality of life for residents, including quality employment opportunities. This includes review and consideration of expedited permitting when appropriate and available, assistance with business programs to help companies looking to expand in the Santa Clarita Valley, instituting an ombudsman or business liaison, and looking at bottom -line business driven incentives like a use tax incentive to save companies money. The City of Santa Clarita, as directed in the 21-Point Business Plan for Progress, is looking at a streamlined and more efficient permitting process. This includes the use of new technologies allowing developers, builders, and business owners to submit, access updates, and receive approved building plans and more via an online system and eliminating any unnecessary costly printed copies. This initiative serves to reinforce Santa Clarita's business -friendly approach and refinements in traditional processes should continually be considered where appropriate. Building a Valley of Villages The "Valley of Villages" concept is one of the major themes adopted as part of the One Valley, One Vision plan. The City of Santa Clarita will implement this concept in Old Town Newhall, as part of the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan. The goal is to create a mix of uses that result in activities throughout the day. This combination will provide opportunities to sustain a village or mixed -use neighborhood from public transportation and shopping to entertainment, parks, recreation, employment, and a range of housing types. E-17 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development The City of Santa Clarita is currently focusing on developing villages in (1) Old Town Newhall, (2) at Whittaker Bermite, a thousand -acre brownfield site adjacent to the Santa Clarita Metrolink station, (3) on the east side of the Santa Clarita Valley, (4) as part of Santa Clarita's Westfield Town Center and (5) near State Route 14 and Lost Canyon Road with the proposed Vista Canyon Ranch project. In the County of Los Angeles a multi -village concept development was approved with the Newhall Ranch Specific Plan. Whittaker Bermite Redevelopment of the Whittaker Bermite property, a 988-acre former industrial site now undergoing both soil and groundwater clean-up, will transform the heart of the Santa Clarita Valley. It is not often a community has the opportunity to create a new vision for its geographic core that will include "economic engine" land uses serving the Valley, needed infrastructure connections, and opportunities for open space and recreational amenities. Redevelopment of the Whittaker Bermite property as a large, centrally located employment hub will help improve the Valley's jobs/housing balance and be instrumental in achieving the goal of two jobs for every new housing unit. The future planning of an area of this size is an exciting endeavor that will require high community input and participation throughout the process. Four General Plan roadways are planned to criss-cross this property, providing residents with greater connectivity to the Valley's employment centers. The Soledad Metrolink station is currently situated along the northernmost portion of this site, creating a ripe opportunity for the development of a transit -oriented, mixed -use activity center. The adjacent 228-acre City property, as well as the former Saugus Speedway along Soledad Canyon Road, offer additional development opportunities that will strength and compliment the land planning efforts on Whittaker Bermite. The City seeks to locate uses on this site that are unique to the Valley and will serve not only the Valley's population, but draw interest from the greater Southern California region. Future uses that may be considered for this site include: a bio-medical park; tourism/sporting arenas; outdoor amphitheater; entertainment industry uses such as a movie ranch or studios; hospital/medical campus; and a higher educational campus or facilities, among others. This site also presents opportunities for active recreational facilities to serve the Valley population as well as passive open space and a trail network along the site's canyons and ridgelines. • City Center. The City of Santa Clarita is already working with community partners, including Los Angeles County and Westfield Valencia Town Center, to explore development of a new multi -jurisdictional City Center. The concept is a more urbanized, mixed -use, vertical environment providing for a mix of civic, office, retail, and housing uses. Vista Canyon Ranch Village: The proposed Vista Canyon design brings together all the elements to create a vibrant town center village for Canyon Country and the Santa Clarita Valley's east side. In contrast to sprawling, disconnected residential tracts and miscellaneous retail centers, the design embraces sound community planning principals to meet current and future needs. The land use plan creates a cohesive, sustainable village by integrating four primary components — a town center, a corporate campus, a Metrolink Station, and a trail system — with retail, entertainment, open space, recreation, and residential neighborhoods offering a variety of housing types. • Newhall Ranch Specific Plan: Planned as a single community consisting of five distinct lifestyle villages, Newhall Ranch is destined to be one of the largest master -planned E-18 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development communities in Los Angeles County. Encompassing 19 square miles, Newhall Ranch will take shape as a self-contained community in a natural, open setting. The Specific Plan allows for the development of up to 20,885 housing units and 5.5 million square feet of commercial, industrial and office space. In addition, over half of the site, or approximately 6,000 acres, will be preserved as open space. VI. REDEVELOPMENT Redevelopment, as defined by the State of California, is the process authorized under California law allowing local government entities to identify deteriorated and blighted areas in their jurisdictions in need of revitalization. The goal of redevelopment is to encourage and attract private sector investment that otherwise would not occur. Businesses are often hesitant about investing in a blighted area because of the associated risk and costs, which can outweigh the benefits. Redevelopment serves as a catalyst for private investment, demonstrating a community's dedication to seeing reinvigorating these areas and infusing them with the infrastructure and resources needed to once again become vibrant economic forces within the community. The Newhall Redevelopment Agency was created by the City in November 1989 to undertake redevelopment activities that remove physically and economically blighted conditions plaguing economic growth. Redevelopment can create jobs and expand business opportunities, provide housing for families most in need, help reduce crime, improve infrastructure and public works, and lead the cleanup of environmentally -threatened and rundown areas. Downtown Newhall Specific Plan The Santa Clarita Redevelopment Agency approved the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan (DNSP) to transform Old Town Newhall into a thriving, mixed -use, pedestrian -oriented urban village with a series of economic engines. The DNSP consists of a 20-block downtown served by Metrolink commuter rail, a commercial corridor in downtown, two flanking neighborhoods, and an industrial district. Upon buildout, the DNSP will include up to 712 new residential units and nearly 300,000 square feet of new commercial space. The DNSP was adopted by the City Council in December 2005, as a strategic planning tool to revitalize Old Town Newhall. The concept of the DNSP originally began in the mid 1990's through a coordinated effort initiated by the Redevelopment Agency (Agency). The Agency began to look at the future potential of the historic downtown core of the Santa Clarita Valley and identified redevelopment as an essential mechanism for establishing a renaissance of the area. The DNSP is designed to provide various strategies for infill development for the neighborhoods adjacent to the downtown area to the east and the west. It also identifies and further substantiates the need for the Redevelopment Agency to be actively involved in the planning process necessary to maintain the appropriate amount of affordable housing in the DNSP area. It covers a 50-block area and contains two residential zones and commercial zones that encourage mixed -use development along major corridors. Ultimately, the DNSP promotes a pedestrian friendly and livable community that embraces the history, culture, and unique characteristics that exemplify the true nature of Old Town Newhall. One of the primary goals of the DNSP is also to encourage development opportunities that will help create the synergy and revitalization for the Old Town Newhall area that the community has envisioned for years. E-19 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development North Newhall Area The North Newhall Area (NNA) is an approximate 200-acre assemblage of land generally bounded by the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) right-of-way on the east, Newhall Creek on the south and west, and a significant ridgeline south of Via Princessa on the north. The northern approximate 100 acres of this NNA is undeveloped with a hillside to the north and oak trees and Placerita Creek. The commercial corridor along the west side of Railroad Avenue consists of mix of retail and commercial uses. The southern approximate 100 acres of this area is primarily developed with existing single-family ranch style homes of varying sizes. A commercial center with a wide mix of industrial and retail uses is located at the entrance to the NNA adjacent to 13th Street. Given the site's characteristics, its proximity to Downtown Newhall and to the Jan Heidt Metrolink Station location, and its surrounding and diverse communities, the NNA would be subject to a broader and more comprehensive planning approach. The NNA would serve as a community that will provide an economic stimulus to the adjacent Old Town Newhall area, will improve traffic circulation in the area, and will consider the sensitive uses in the adjacent areas. The NNA would be a mixed -use neighborhood that includes up to 775 residential units and up to 450,000 square feet of commercial space and open space areas. Development would preserve and improve upon the existing quality of life, provide tools to revitalize the underutilized commercial areas, offer various housing types, encourage development that is transit -oriented, walkable and bike friendly, and promote sustainability. VII. PROGRAMS & INITIATIVES SUPPORTING ECONOMIC GROWTH Santa Clarita Valley Enterprise Zone The Santa Clarita Valley Enterprise Zone is a geographic area providing tax incentives to businesses located in the City of Santa Clarita as well as unincorporated Los Angeles County. The Enterprise Zone covers commercial, business, and industrial zoned land in the Santa Clarita Valley. See Exhibit ED 6 (Proposed Map Attached). The City of Santa Clarita Enterprise Zone received final designation as an Enterprise Zone on July 1, 2007. In September 2010, the City of Santa Clarita in partnership with the County of Los Angeles applied for a new larger and expanded Enterprise Zone. The new Santa Clarita Valley Enterprise Zone received conditional designation from the State of California in late 2010. Qualified businesses can realize savings through the Enterprise Zone program in the following areas: hiring tax credits; sales and use tax credits; business expense deductions; net interest deductions for lenders; and income tax credits for employees. Since its inception, the Enterprise Zone program in Santa Clarita has proven very effective. In its first three years in existence 3,556 jobs were created or retained as part of the program. Additionally, Santa Clarita businesses have generated tax savings of more than $133 million cumulatively from July 2007 to March 2010. If a business qualifies, the zone can virtually eliminate a business' state income tax obligation. The Enterprise Zone is another key tool for the Santa Clarita Valley's attraction and expansion efforts, helping combat the high costs of doing business in the state. E-20 DRAFT May, 2011 n i N W City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development Santa Clarita Worksource Center The Santa Clarita Worksource Center's focus is to provide a workforce development system bringing job seekers and employers together in one place. All services are provided to employers and job seekers at no cost through the Federal Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and the City of Santa Clarita in partnership with Goodwill Southern California, the Employment Development Department (EDD), the County of Los Angeles Community and Senior Services, College of the Canyons, and the Department of Rehabilitation. The City of Santa Clarita is working to enhance the program in the coming years, using the Worksource Center as both a business attraction and retention tool. The City will do this by: enhancing its partnership with College of the Canyons (COC) Economic Development Division; potentially relocating the Worksource Center to the COC, Valencia campus; exploring the creation of a separate Workforce Investment Board (WIB) for the Northern Los Angeles County cities of Santa Clarita, Palmdale, and Lancaster; and increasing efficiency and customer service. Recycling Market Development Zone (RMDZ) The City of Santa Clarita is one of the 40 Recycling Market Development Zones in the state of California. The RMDZ program combines recycling with economic development to fuel new business development, help existing companies expand, create jobs, and divert waste from landfills. This program provides profitable incentives to businesses that manufacture products using materials that would normally end up in landfills. Those incentives include attractive loans, technical assistance, and free product marketing. Use Tax Incentive The City of Santa Clarita began offering a Use Tax Incentive in 2009, as directed by the City Council as part of the 21-Point Business Plan for Progress. The Use Tax Incentive Program was designed by the City to incentivize business expansion and increase investment in our community. The incentive to participate in this program is attractive. A portion of each dollar of use tax designated by your business and received by the City of Santa Clarita is eligible to be rebated back to the participating business through one of the following - a business expansion credit or a cash rebate. Business Programs at College of the Canyons • Small Business Development Center The Small Business Development Center (SBDC), hosted by College of the Canyons (COC), launched in January 2006. Serving the Antelope Valley, San Fernando Valley, and Santa Clarita Valley, the SBDC helps prospective and existing small business owners in northeast Los Angeles County start, retain, or expand their business. The organization provides workshops, one-on-one counseling, and other resources to the business community, and is part of a regional network of seven SBDC centers serving business in Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles counties. Services available include business counseling, business plan development, accounting and bookkeeping, marketing and sales, and technology education. Assistance is also available with access to capital, state and federal government contracting and more. E-22 DRAFT September, 2010 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development Center for Applied Competitive Technologies The Center for Applied Competitive Technology (CACT) at COC serves manufacturers and technology companies with customized training and technical support. The state -supported program is dedicated to helping improve performance goals in the industry and is an attraction tool for Santa Clarita. The CACT at COC includes workforce training programs, demonstration of new manufacturing equipment and technologies, and access to federal, state, and local resources. This program can help companies achieve greater operational efficiency, enhancing productivity, and increasing organizational performance. Employee Training Institute The Employee Training Institute (ETI) has provided customized training for regional businesses since 1988 and consistently serves over 300 companies annually. Through the ETI, the College of the Canyons has secured ten consecutive contracts with the State of California Employee Training Panel, which provides the funding for this program. ETI also works with regional Workforce Investment Boards to provide training for displaced workers in biotechnology and has hosted an At -Risk Youth program which featured boot camp style courses in manufacturing technology. 13 Advanced Technology Incubator The 13 Advanced Technology Incubator Program at COC provides technology -based entrepreneurs with the resources necessary to launch and grow successful businesses. It serves as a tool for investors to finance and propel high -growth ventures. The program currently offers capital efficiency for both the entrepreneur and investor and benefits include: a state-of-the-art facility fully furnished and wired facility with full access; shared support services and office equipment; free mentoring and access to services from experienced professionals; student interns; and introductions to investors. This program and so many others available through the college support Santa Clarita's targeted industry sectors and are unique to the region. They serve as a business attraction tool for many entrepreneurial companies. VIII. COLLABORATIONS WITH PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS Doing business in the Santa Clarita Valley is becoming increasingly streamlined. A variety of professional business organizations exist in the community to help companies navigate local business policies, state legislation, and to help companies owners network and acclimate within Santa Clarita's distinctive business environment. These organizations continue to play an integral role in shaping the economic prosperity and direction of the Santa Clarita Valley. Building Industry Association The Building Industry Association of Southern California, Inc. (BIA/SC) is a nonprofit trade association representing nearly 1,900 member companies employing 125,000 persons who are engaged in all aspects of building homes and communities throughout Southern California. Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce The Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce has promoted and supported local businesses since 1923. The goals of the chamber include encouraging growth of members and targeted industries, assisting new companies locating to the Santa Clarita Valley, and serving as a representative for all business legislation affecting members. E-23 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development The Chamber also organized an Economic Development Committee in 2009 to retain and nurture existing businesses, capture more local dollars, attract targeted industries, draw more outside money into the region, promote the concept of economic development, and enhance the quality of life in the Santa Clarita Valley. Valley Industrial Association (VIA) The Valley Industrial Association of Santa Clarita represents business interests throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, providing members with opportunities to collaborate on a range of business issues. In addition to being a legislative advocate, VIA serves as a one -stop shop for relevant business information, supports local educational initiatives, and provides networking opportunities. Santa Clarita Valley Auto Dealers Association The Valencia Auto Center, located off Valencia Boulevard and Creekside Road, is the largest auto mall in North Los Angeles County, with sales of more than $1 billion in 2007. It is home to more than 15 dealership and 25 brands. The Auto Dealers Association cooperatively markets the Santa Clarita Valley's offerings among the Southern California region, and is one of the biggest generators of sales tax in the area. In the coming years, the City of Santa Clarita is scheduled to invest into a streetscape improvement project to dramatically enhance the environment on Creekside Road, adding new landscaping, crosswalks, wayfinding signage and lighting elements to make the area more visually appealing and pedestrian -friendly. Santa Clarita Valley Economic Alliance The Santa Clarita Valley Economic Alliance (SCVEA) strives to enhance the business friendly environment in today's competitive economic climate by improving the overall public -private business experience. SCVEA provides assistance in the following key areas: interpreting building codes; expediting the permitting and licensing process; streamlining and accelerating the public/private process; addressing environmental, manufacturing, warehousing, office and technology issues; site/facility location and planning; providing economic information, industry statistics, tax structures, job training and industry support resources; and providing demographic information, including community profiles and labor market information. Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation In April 2009, the City of Santa Clarita City Council approved a 21-Point Business Plan for Progress, designed to address the many challenges facing the Santa Clarita Valley economy resulting from the U.S. recession. One of the points in the plan included the possible formation of the area's first Economic Development Corporation. Developed in concert with other like- minded business entities, included those referenced above, the City of Santa Clarita Economic Development Division would work hand -in -hand with these entities to develop the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation. Goals of the organization may include studies of the local economy including trending and forecasting, as well as attraction of targeted businesses in the identified key sectors. Santa Clarita Valley Tourism Bureau The Santa Clarita Valley Tourism Bureau is comprised of more than 30 public, private, and non- profit businesses dedicated to cooperatively marketing the area to visitors. The goals of the Bureau include development of marketing materials, collaborative advertising campaigns in key markets, and supporting like-minded tourism businesses through networking and professional development opportunities. E-24 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development The City of Santa Clarita should continue to work in coordination with these groups to market and promote the area's resources and attributes, encouraging further expansion of the City's economic base. This includes identifying joint collaborations and initiatives and collectively working toward common goals. These may include, but are not limited to the following: • Development of an Economic Development Corporation; • Formation of Business Improvement Districts; • Formation of Tourism Marketing Districts; • Third -party Economic Impact Surveys, Business and Retail Surveys, or Market Analysis Surveys to gauge business attraction efforts; and • Collaborative business pitches and solicitations to companies in targeted industry sectors. IX. EMPHASIS ON TOURISM & CULTURE SUPPORTING WEALTH CREATION Quality of life is one of the Santa Clarita Valley's biggest attributes. Companies chose to relocate to the area, not only because of affordability, housing and proximity to Los Angeles, but because of the Santa Clarita Valley's quality school system, recreational opportunities, distinctive culture and tourism assets. In 1971 when the Newhall Land & Farming Company first opened Magic Mountain, tourism became a growing industry in the Santa Clarita Valley. In the years following the park's opening, hotels began to develop as an increasing number of regional and statewide travelers took an interest in the park. Today, tourism is one of the Santa Clarita Valley's growing industries. Six Flags Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor remain the largest attractions, but a robust calendar of regional, national, and international events have put the area on the map as a must -see destination for Los Angeles area visitors. Six Flags Magic Mountain & Hurricane Harbor Magic Mountain was built by Newhall Land & Farming Company to attract new homebuyers to the Santa Clarita Valley. When the park opened on May 29, 1971, there were 500 employees and 33 attractions. Today, at the height of the summer season, Six Flags Magic Mountain employs more than 3,000 people and boasts more than 100 rides and attractions for the entire family. Since its inception, the theme park has successfully written itself into the country's vibrant theme park history using state-of-the-art thrill ride innovation to earn recognition as the finest thrill ride park in the world. As the City of Santa Clarita grew and developed, so did the landmark theme park. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor opened next door to Magic Mountain in 1995 and provides water adventures for families each summer. With the addition of the water park, the two parks were the first multi -gated entertainment destination in Southern California. E-25 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development Six Flags Magic Mountain continues to be one of the Six Flags company's most profitable parks, attracting more than three million visitors each year. Six Flags is committed to the continuous investment in Magic Mountain, with capital improvement projects and new ride openings scheduled through the parks' 40th anniversary celebration in 2011. Six Flags Magic Mountain is also the largest generator of hotel room stays in the Santa Clarita Valley. Therefore the area's peak tourism season follows the park's peak season, with high season/high occupancy during Magic Mountain's daily operations schedule, mid -March (spring break) through Labor Day, and low season occurring from November through early March. City of Santa Clarita's Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) When visitors stay at hotels, they pay a transient occupancy tax (TOT). The City of Santa Clarita hotels currently have a TOT of 10 percent, while the Santa Clarita Valley hotels outside of the City limits have a TOT rate of 12 percent. Revenue generated by City hotels annually from TOT is approximately $2 million. The following are a few hotels statistics for the Santa Clarita Valley. As of March 2009, there are a total of 1,809 hotel rooms in the Santa Clarita Valley that are included in hotel data reports with additional rooms proposed. A total of 882 rooms, or 49 percent, are located within the City limits and the remaining 927 rooms or 51 percent are outside the City limits. By zip code in the Santa Clarita Valley, 43 percent (or 780 rooms) are in zip code 91355 (City of Santa Clarita), followed by 33 percent (or 601 rooms) in 91381 (Stevenson Ranch area), 10 percent (or 174 rooms) in 91384 (Castaic area), 8 percent (or 152 rooms) outside the City of Santa Clarita in zip code 91355, and 6 percent (or 102 rooms) in 91351 (City of Santa Clarita). Hotels located within the City of Santa Clarita include: Hyatt Regency Valencia, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites, Embassy Suites, Best Western, Courtyard by Marriott, Super 8, and Travelodge. Hotels located in the unincorporated area of the Santa Clarita Valley include: Hilton Garden Inn, La Quinta Inn & Suites, Extended Stay, Residence Inn, Hampton Inn, Comfort Suites, Fairfield Inn, Rodeway Inn, and Days Inn. Since 2006, the Santa Clarita Valley's hotel room inventory has increased by 27 percent, with 408 new rooms from the opening of La Quinta Inn & Suites, Courtyard by Marriott, and Embassy Suites. A new Sheraton Hotel has been proposed at the corner of McBean Parkway and Valencia Boulevard. Santa Clarita Valley remains one of the Los Angeles region's top ten performing hotel markets, with 82 percent occupancy in 2005, 84 percent in 2006, 74 percent in 2007 and 69 percent in 2008 according to PKF Consulting. The Santa Clarita Valley continues to rank above the State average and above several other Los Angeles area markets. Calendar of Events The Santa Clarita Valley is home to a variety of cultural and sports -related events attracting large audiences from key regional and national markets. The goal of these events is to expose visitors to a memorable experience they cannot find elsewhere, while encouraging visitor spending at local businesses. The following events are regional in scope and draw visitors from outside the Santa Clarita Valley. E-26 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development Amgen Tour of California: The largest cycling event in America, the Amgen Tour of California is a Tour de France -style cycling road race challenging the world's top professional cycling teams to compete along a demanding 750+ mile course from north to south. This event attracts more than 1.6 million spectators each year, with more than 100,000 in the Santa Clarita Valley, with the debut of Lance Armstrong in 2009. In the Santa Clarita Valley, the event's economic impact is estimated at approximately $2 million in benefit to local businesses. • Cowboy Festival: Each spring, the City of Santa Clarita presents the annual Cowboy Festival, an event blending the Santa Clarita Valley film and Western heritage together with the allure of cultural tourism. Set at Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio, the event attracts an estimated 10,000+ visitors each year and garners regional and national media attention. • Pet Expo: Launched in 2009, this event attracted more than 3,000 regional pet enthusiasts to College of the Canyons. Celebrity Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan, who is based in the Santa Clarita Valley, helped promote the event. • City of Santa Clarita Festival of the Arts: The City of Santa Clarita Festival of the Arts is designed to celebrate the art of street painting, while enjoying non-traditional forms of art, live music and dance, and hands-on opportunities to create art. The multi -cultural event takes place in Old Town Newhall and primarily attracts a regional crowd of 3,000-4,000 persons and is growing in popularity. • Wine Festival: Santa Clarita is home to several wine lounge businesses and since 2005 has been home to several premier wine festivals, attracting thousands of Southern California visitors to the Santa Clarita Valley. • Santa Clarita Marathon: The City of Santa Clarita hosts an annual Santa Clarita Marathon, an official qualifying race for the Boston Marathon. The event features a full marathon, a half marathon, a 5K Run/Walk, and a Kid K run and attracts nearly 3,000 athletes annually while reinforcing Santa Clarita's healthy living/lifestyle philosophy. As the City of Santa Clarita, in partnership with private organizations and the County of Los Angeles, continues to position the area as a visitor destination, entities must continue to attract targeted events. These may include a food and wine festival, art events in coordination with CalArts, or other cultural offerings as identified as unique to the Santa Clarita Valley. To help support attraction of these offerings, the City of Santa Clarita must: • Develop a process to evaluate proposed tourism -based events and levels of City support; • Look at formation of a Tourism Business Improvement District to help fund support of these types of tourism events; and • Align the City of Santa Clarita with choice events that underscore the philosophy, values, and ideals of the Santa Clarita community. Performing Arts The Santa Clarita Valley is home to a robust artist community, which includes live theater, a performing arts center at College of the Canyons, arts galleries, and one of a kind exhibits and artist showcases at CalArts. E-27 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development • The Canyon Theatre Guild feature 10 productions annually and welcomes more than 40,000 visitors to its theatre in Old Town Newhall. • The Repertory East Playhouse, an intimate 81-seat theater, offers improvisation, live theater, and a variety of shows, including Shakespeare in the Park in the heart of Old Town Newhall. • The Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons features a variety of professional, college, and community performers. The 926-seat theater regularly features music, dance, theater, and comedy performances for all audiences. • The College of the Canyons Art Gallery curates a variety of exhibits annually and is committed to serving the college community and the community at large. The Gallery features art from contemporary, traditional, and expressionistic artists worldwide and has been in operation since 1997, with the opening of a new Fine and Media Arts Building. Arts Commission In 2009, the City of Santa Clarita created the City's first Arts Commission to provide leadership, vision, and commitment to cultural arts development in the City. This 5-member commission is comprised of art -minded individuals and is responsible for advising the City Council, City Manager, and City staff on arts matters including public art and art programs and events throughout the community. Castaic Lake Operated by the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation, Castaic Lake is a state water reservoir located just north of Santa Clarita. Along with providing fresh water to local communities, Castaic Lake remains dedicated to providing the public with a wide range of recreational opportunities. The upper lake is home to many different recreation activities, and is the primary facility for motorized watercraft. Boaters have a chance to experience 2,235 acres of explorable waterways and coves, and fisherman can test the 29 miles of shoreline. Visitors can also enjoy barbecue & picnic along the shores of the lake. Town Center Drive Town Center Drive includes many principles of new urbanism featuring a pedestrian friendly corridor with access to a wide range of uses. Multiple residential housing types combined with commercial office, retail, restaurant, recreation and entertainment are located within a quarter mile of each other and create a live, work and play environment. Also situated on Town Center Drive is the Hyatt Regency Valencia and Santa Clarita Conference Center. The Santa Clarita Conference Center, which includes a 6,000 square -foot Grand Ballroom, is the largest meeting facility in the Santa Clarita Valley. Adaptable to any size meeting, the Grand Ballroom divides into five separate function spaces for simultaneous events. The hotel also offers an Executive Board Room and ample outdoor gardens for luncheons, receptions and weddings. The arts, recreation, and distinctive attractions and events continue to fuel California's tourism industry. Santa Clarita's tourism industry is no different. The City of Santa Clarita, in coordination with the identified community groups, must continue to attract the high -caliber of amenities, attractions, and offerings visitors expect from a world -class destination. The City of Santa Clarita should be discriminating when considering tourism businesses, attractions, and E-28 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development events and should develop a consistent method and procedure for review of new offerings. This should include an event and attraction advisory committee and application and review process for special events and privately funded events looking for funding and City support. For example, the City of Santa Clarita must look at whether the event or attraction is new, whether the concept is in line with the City's policy of embracing outdoor recreation, sports - tourism, family -friendly events, the quintessential California lifestyle Santa Clarita embodies, and whether it reinforces Santa Clarita's goals of making the community an ideal place to work, live, and play. Events meeting criteria in the past include the Amgen Tour of California, AT&T Champions Classic, Bella Via, and the Loose Goose Wine Festival. Attractions and business includes Six Flags, Westfield Valencia Town Center, Mountasia Family Fun Center and Saugus Speedway. X. SUMMARY OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLANNING ISSUES Based on existing conditions and projected growth as described throughout this document, the major economic development strategies are summarized below. Engage in activities that will establish an appropriate jobs/housing balance. 2. Attract and promote businesses that provide high -quality, high -paying jobs for local residents. 3. Target the four main industry clusters currently identified and, as needed, refine the process to support these industries. 4. Develop and participate in programs that assist local businesses thrive, such as the Enterprise Zone, Recycling Market Development Zone, and Use Tax Incentive Program. 5. Build an economic base for all communities through increased sales tax generation. 6. Continue collaborative relationships with key economic development agencies. 7. Partner with local education institutions, employers, and others to evaluate the workforce training needs and provide timely opportunities for development of the local workforce. 8. Develop economic wealth by attracting external monies to Santa Clarita. 9. Provide a wide range of retail, entertainment, and cultural opportunities to serve residents and visitors throughout Santa Clarita. 10. Attract and support cultural and sports -related events that attract large audiences from regional and national markets and promote Santa Clarita as a tourist destination. E-29 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element HOUSING ELEMENT DRAFT MAY 2011 I. INTRODUCTION A. Background and Purpose of the Housing Element Incorporated in 1987, the City of Santa Clarita contains a population of approximately 177,000, encompassing the communities of Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia. Since its formation, Santa Clarita has positioned itself as a family -friendly diverse community with top - ranked schools, safe neighborhoods, and an economically stable development environment. For the last two decades, the City of Santa Clarita has seen significant trends in its housing market, population demands and the continued need for expansion. As a required element of the General Plan, the Housing Element is part of the comprehensive planning document that provides a framework to guide new development in the City. The Housing Element contains information about the number and type of homes that must be built in order to ensure that all residents in the City will have a safe and healthy home in the future. This element was prepared to help Santa Clarita meet local and regional housing goals, and to comply with State General Plan requirements. Although the City has experienced rapid residential growth since its incorporation, and growth pressures continue to be felt throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, the issue of housing must be carefully evaluated in order to address the specific needs of community residents. Adequate housing for the elderly, disabled, lower -income households, large families, residents of overcrowded or substandard dwellings, and other special needs groups are addressed in the Housing Element. In addition, the element addresses future housing needs based on existing housing stock, housing costs, demographic characteristics, income levels, and regional population projections. As required by State law, the Housing Element also includes an inventory of land that is adequately designated for various types of housing to meet projected needs; an evaluation of constraints to production of needed housing, along with recommendations for mitigating such constraints; and policies and programs indicating the City's commitment to assist in housing development through regulatory concessions and incentives. The City's first Housing Element following its 1987 incorporation was included in the first General Plan, adopted in June, 1991. The Housing Element was amended in 1992, 1993, and 1995, at which time the element was certified as adequate by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). The City adopted a comprehensive update of the Housing Element in 2001, after which HCD requested modifications regarding provision of adequate sites for affordable housing. The City's 2004 revision to the document was adopted to address HCD's comments and to reflect housing activity within the City at that time. This update to the Housing Element has been prepared as part of a comprehensive update to the City's General Plan, in conjunction with the joint City -County One Valley One Vision planning effort. The element has been updated to reflect the land use and circulation maps and policies contained in the 2011 OVOV General Plan, to address recent development activity and demographic changes, to incorporate recent State laws regarding housing element contents, and to meet regional housing goals. H-1 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan B. Legal Requirements Housing elements have been mandatory components of the General Plan since 1969. California Government Code Article 10.6, Sections 65580 through 65589.9, establish the legal requirements for preparation of housing elements by cities and counties throughout the state. In creating the housing element law, the Legislature's aim was to ensure that local governments would cooperate with one another in order to address regional housing needs, and that counties and cities would marshal available resources and develop appropriate local programs to meet the State's housing goals. Section 65580 states that "the availability of housing is of vital statewide importance, and the early attainment of decent housing and a suitable living environment for every Californian, including farm workers, is a priority of the highest order." The State's interest in housing production also recognizes the critical role of housing as an engine for economic stability and growth. In general, the Housing Element must include the following components: • A housing needs assessment for existing households, including those overpaying for housing, living in overcrowded conditions, or with special needs; housing units needing rehabilitation; and assisted affordable units at risk of converting to market -rate units. • A projection of future housing needs, in conformance with the Regional Housing Needs Allocation prepared by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) for the Los Angeles metropolitan area. • An inventory and analysis of sites suitable for housing development based on zoning and land use designation, size, existing uses, environmental constraints, availability of infrastructure, and realistic development capacity, by income level. • An analysis of constraints to new housing development, including both governmental and non -governmental factors that may limit housing construction and affordability. • Housing programs to ensure that adequate sites are provided to meet the City's share of the regional housing need; assist in the development of housing for low- and moderate - income households; remove or mitigate governmental constraints; conserve and improve the existing affordable housing stock; promote equal housing opportunity; and preserve at -risk subsidized housing units. • Quantified objectives for housing, including estimates of the number of units, by income level, to be constructed, rehabilitated, and conserved over the planning period of the element. • An evaluation of the policies, programs, and quantified objectives of the prior Housing Element. Government Code Section 65585 requires cities to submit copies of their draft and adopted housing elements to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for review. HCD will review the draft element and report its findings to the city after a 60-day review period. After adoption, HCD has 90 days to review the Housing Element and provide comments to the City. The housing element is the only General Plan element that must be reviewed by the State as part of the adoption process. DRAFT May, 2011 H-2 Citv of Santa Clarita General Plan Housina Element In general, housing elements are required at the time of General Plan adoption. Unlike the other General Plan elements, the housing element must be revised at regular intervals as established by State law — typically, every five years. The City's last Housing Element revision was adopted in 2004, and the next update for cities within the SCAG region is scheduled for 2008. The planning period for this revision of the Housing Element extends from January 1, 2006 to June 30, 2014. With the adoption of Senate Bill 375, there has been a recent change to require jurisdictions to update their housing in an interval of a period not to exceed eight years.. Because this Housing Element revision is being undertaken concurrently with the General Plan update as part of the One Valley One Vision process, HCD staff has indicated that the City's plan to adopt the Housing Element revision in 2011 is acceptable. The City's planning area boundary is shown on Exhibit H-1, and includes the incorporated City boundaries along with the adopted sphere of influence. The area of the incorporated City is about 52.6 square miles, and the sphere of influence includes an additional 29.5 square miles. The City is required to plan for its sphere of influence, which includes land contiguous to existing City boundaries that may be annexed into the City at some future date. However, in preparing this Housing Element, potential residential development outside the City limits has not been considered in the suitable sites analysis for purposes of meeting the City's Regional Housing Needs Allocation. If, in the future, land within the sphere of influence is annexed to the City and developed with residential uses, this housing will be in addition to that planned for in this Housing Element. C. Public Participation State law requires that local governments make a diligent effort to involve all economic segments of the community in the preparation of a housing element update, and this participation process must be described in the element. In compliance with State requirements, the City and its housing consultant made a concerted outreach effort to invite public input during preparation of this Housing Element. Between October 2007 and August 2008, City staff and the City's housing consultant held four meetings with community groups, a meeting with the Newhall Redevelopment Committee, and a public workshop at the Newhall Community Center to receive input on the Housing Element. In addition, the housing consultant interviewed a number of Santa Clarita social service providers by telephone and by email to gather information on the housing needs of special needs populations within the City. More information on these efforts is provided below. City staff and the housing element consultant met with the Healthcare Roundtable on October 19, 2007, and again on January 18, 2008. This Roundtable, which holds monthly meetings, includes representation from most of the social service providers in the Santa Clarita Valley. The housing element consultant attended a meeting of the Santa Clarita organization Save Our Seniors on August 1, 2008. This meeting was attended by a number of seniors and advocates and addressed problems that some seniors are experiencing in "affordable" senior housing developments. H-3 DRAFT May, 2011 Z (e;--j is LU LL LL ................ CO ................. < fv 0 z rr Lu LLJ Z < �3 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element The housing element consultant and the City's housing staff attended a meeting of the Newhall Redevelopment Committee on October 5, 2007. This committee, comprised of about 15 community members with an interest in redevelopment issues within the Newhall Project Area, advises the Redevelopment Agency on redevelopment/revitalization in the Newhall Project Area and assists with implementation of the Downtown Newhall Improvement Program and the Newhall Redevelopment Plan. A public workshop on the housing element was held at the City's Newhall Community Center on July 22, 2008, which was widely advertised throughout the community in both English and in Spanish. This meeting was attended by 40 people and Spanish translators were available at the meeting. Oral comments were received from over twenty (20) attendees, and written comments were submitted by six people at the meeting. One agency, The Child and Family Center, submitted a written summary of client housing problems and concerns. A copy of that statement and transcripts of the written comments received are included in the Appendix. The housing element consultant also conducted telephone interviews with staff of the following agencies: Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center; Santa Clarita Community Development Corporation (Cold Weather Shelter); Single Mother's Outreach; and Los Angeles County Community Services Department. The following agencies were contacted by phone and provided information on clients and services by email: North Los Angeles County Regional Center; and Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health. A study session by the City's Planning Commission was held on November 18, 2008 and was attended by approximately 15 people. After review of the draft element by HCD and circulation of a draft Environmental Impact Report for the General Plan update, public hearings on the draft element were held on October 5, 2010; November 16, 2010; December 7, 2010; January 18, 2011 and march 1, 2011 by the Planning Commission. A formal recommendation of approval of the Housing Element to the City Council was adopted on May 17, 2011. The City Council reviewed the draft Housing Element and related environmental document at a public hearing on 2011, and the element was adopted on _. During all public hearings, both Planning Commission and City Council, the public was encouraged to participate in the process through both written and oral testimony. The revised Housing Element and environmental documentation was available both online at the City's website and in written form at various locations throughout the City. Public input received through all the meetings and correspondence described in this section has been considered in preparation of this Housing Element. Written comments received have been compiled in the Appendix for review and reference. D. Consistency with Other General Plan Elements The Housing Element has been prepared in conjunction with other required General Plan elements as part of the One Valley One Vision planning effort for the Santa Clarita Valley, undertaken as a joint planning project by the City of Santa Clarita and County of Los Angeles. As such, the element is consistent with all the other General Plan elements as required by state law. Specifically, the Housing Element is consistent with other General Plan elements as follows: H-5 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Element The Land Use Element establishes the type and density of development that will be allowed in the planning area. The Housing Element is consistent with the Land Use Element because the location and density ranges shown for residential land use districts on the land use map have been designated in consideration of the housing needs projected for all economic and demographic segments of the Valley's residents, including households with special needs and those with incomes of less than the County median. Adequate sites for attached and multi- family housing have been identified to ensure that the need for affordable housing has been met in the City. The number of dwelling units that can be built in the planning area based on the land use plan will ensure that the regional housing needs allocated to the City can be met. In addition, the Land Use Element allows mixed uses in various locations proximate to residential areas, in order to provide services such as food and drug stores and medical offices within walking distance of residents. Circulation Element The Circulation Element contains a plan for major transportation facilities within the Santa Clarita Valley, including streets and highways, rail and bus transit routes, stations and terminals, and airport facilities. The Housing Element is consistent with the Circulation Element because streets and highways have been planned to convey vehicles through the planning area at acceptable service levels when the new housing provided for by the land use plan and housing objectives are developed. In addition, policies have been included in both elements to ensure that residents have adequate access to streets and highways, public buses and commuter rail, bicycle trails, and walkways. Conservation and Open Space Element The Conservation and Open Space Element contains maps and policies to ensure preservation of an open space greenbelt around large portions of the Santa Clarita Valley, in addition to preserving water quality, historic and cultural resources, scenic views, and providing recreational facilities to enhance the quality of life for Valley residents. The Housing Element is consistent with the Conservation and Open Space Element because adequate sites for housing to meet the regional housing needs allocation are available throughout the City without impacting open space or resource conservation areas. In addition, adequate parkland and recreational facilities have been planned to meet the needs of existing and future residents. The Housing Element also addresses the need for resource conservation in new housing construction, including conservation of energy and water resources. Noise Element The Noise Element contains maps and policies to ensure that residents will not be exposed to health risks or nuisances due to noise generated from freeways and high -volume roadways, airports, industrial and recreational uses, special events, and other uses emitting loud sounds. Policies in the Noise Element address sound attenuation measures to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, such as setbacks, noise barriers, and buffering. The Housing Element is consistent with the Noise Element because "sensitive receptors" such as residential neighborhoods, group housing, and support services including medical, child care, and educational facilities, will be protected from harmful effects of noise. DRAFT May, 2011 H-6 Citv of Santa Clarita General Plan Housina Element Safetv Element The Safety Element contains maps and policies to ensure that residents are not exposed to health risks due to air pollution, earthquakes, wildland fires, or other environmental hazards, and that adequate provisions are made for crime prevention, law enforcement, and fire protection services. The Housing Element is consistent with the Safety Element because residential land uses were designated in consideration of the locations of hazard areas, including known earthquake fault zones, areas subject to flooding or wildfires, unstable soils, and other environmental hazards. In addition, the Safety Element includes policies to ensure that new residential development plans in the City are evaluated for conformance with accepted crime prevention measures, and that adequate law enforcement and fire protection services are provided to ensure the safety of City residents. Economic Development Element The Housing Element supports the Economic Development Element because it provides for a range of housing programs to meet the needs of a variety of employment levels throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. E. Consistency with Related City Planning Efforts Redevelopment Five -Year Plan It is estimated that the Redevelopment Agency housing set -aside fund will have a balance of $3.7 million through the end of the Housing Element planning period. This balance will be combined with issued housing bonds, totaling over $11 million, providing the Agency with the ability to engage in the development of affordable housing. According to the 10-year housing production forecast in the Five Year Implementation Plan, the Agency anticipates a need for 84 affordable units (including 34 very low-income units) to fulfill its production goals and 267 affordable units (including 107 very low-income units) over the duration of the Redevelopment Plan. Taking into account the Canyon Country Senior project (located outside the redevelopment project area with 200 moderate income units) along with the Fountain Glen apartments (located outside the redevelopment project area with 6 moderate income units and two very low income units), the Agency is able to utilize these units toward its production goal on a 2-for-1 unit basis, resulting in a production need of 34 very low-income units. Utilizing the HUD CHAS data (which reflects the 2000 Census data, however it considers an "elderly" household over the age 62) to compute the proportionality analysis for the use of the affordable housing set -aside funds, the percentage of housing set -aside funds that may be expended on senior projects under the CHAS-based methodology is 35.4%, and 65.5% for non - senior households. Table H1.1 represents the proportionality analysis for Santa Clarita. H-7 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Table H-1.1: RDA Proportionality Analysis Income Tarpting for Senior/Nonsenior Households - HAS -based Methodoloqy Santa Clarita Redevelopment A enc Elderl 2+ Only Total Renters Owners Subtotal Households Earninq Less than 60% of Median Family Income: 1,095 838 1,933 6,156 Households Earninq Between 80% and 60% of MFI 439 1,014 1,453 4,414 1,534 1,862 3,386 9,570 35.4% 100.0% Source: US 2000 Census, as reported by CHAS data Fulfillment of the affordable housing production goal described above will be accomplished through the development of affordable housing in the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan area and in the redevelopment area as a whole. The Redevelopment Agency is in the midst of negotiations with developers to construct affordable housing that would provide approximately 100 units in the near future. The City's Five -Year Redevelopment Implementation Plan (Plan) is a document adopted by the City of Santa Clarita Redevelopment Agency, whose members also serve as the City Council. It is prepared and adopted every five years to set forth a plan for revenues and expenditures of the Redevelopment Agency, based on a list of needs and improvements as specified in the plan. The current was adopted on 6/26/2007 for the period of 2007 to 2011 and includes five- year and ten-year housing compliance objectives. The project area, which consists of about 900 acres in the Newhall area of the City, includes retail, industrial, public and residential properties. The Plan describes a list of improvements for the Redevelopment Project Area, and projected market -rate and affordable housing development. As required by State law, the Plan also reflects that twenty percent of the revenue generated by tax increment within the Redevelopment Project Area be set aside for housing projects and programs benefiting low-income residents. These funds are often called "set -aside" funds in discussion of revenue sources for housing projects. Other State requirements are that any housing units within the Redevelopment Project Area that are removed for redevelopment projects must be replaced, and that set -aside funds be expended for housing projects and programs in proportion to the demographic characteristics in the community. For example, not all the redevelopment set -aside funds may be used for one age group, such as seniors, or moderate income, but must be allocated in a way that reflects the make-up of the general population. The Redevelopment Agency of the City of Santa Clarita was created in 1997 with a single Project Area in the community of Newhall. As of January 1, 2008, the balance of set -aside funds was just over two million dollars. In July 2008, the City issued bonds against future low/mod housing tax increment revenue. This brought the total of set -aside funds to $11,325,242. Within the Program section of the Housing Element, funding estimates for RDA funds are identified as possible funding sources for a number of programs. DRAFT May, 2011 H-8 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element The Housing Element is consistent with the RDA Five Year Plan because many of the programs and policies contained in the element reflect the provisions of the Five Year Plan. Specifically, The Downtown Newhall Specific Plan, which was adopted by the Agency in December 2005, anticipates the creation of 75 affordable housing units. Consolidated Plan The City of Santa Clarita is an entitlement city for Community Development Block Grant funds. Use of CDBG funds requires the City to follow a five-year strategic planning process called the Consolidated Plan. The process begins with a document called the Consolidated Plan (Con Plan), in which the needs of the low- and moderate -income community are identified and prioritized. Each year an Annual Action Plan is developed which identifies how the annual entitlement funds will be allocated and how those allocations address the needs identified in the Con Plan. Finally, the City submits an annual Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Review (CAPER) reporting on the effect the various CDBG-funded activities have had on the community. The current Consolidated Plan five-year cycle will end in June 2009. A new five- year Con Plan is in development. The current Con Plan identifies affordable housing as a high priority. This is consistent with the policies and programs identified in the Housing Element, specifically those identified to assist low- and moderate -income households. Many of the programs identified in the Housing Element may be funded through the use of CDBG funds. F. Explanation of Housing Terms Some terms used in the discussion of affordable housing have specific legal meanings. As a reference tool for readers, this section defines terms that are used throughout the text. Affordable Housing Because the term "affordable" is used generically to describe a wide variety of housing prices, it is important to provide a definition consistent with state and federal law. The State defines housing as "affordable" when housing costs do not exceed 30% of household income. The federal government allows renters to pay up to 40% of their income for rent, but limits owner affordability to 30% of household income. Current mortgage lending standards require that monthly payments, including insurance and taxes, should not exceed 29% of gross income. At one time, many new housing units were "affordable" to working families buying their first home. Now, the term "workforce" housing is used for subsidy programs for middle or median income workers who can no longer afford to buy homes. Even subsidized housing targeted to households earning 50% or less of median income sometimes is not affordable to seniors on Social Security, disabled people, and mothers in the CalWorks program; these households may need programs that charge 30% of income for rent or are targeted to households earning 30% or less of median income (extremely low income). Rents in buildings financed by the low income housing tax credit program often are set for households earning 60% or less of median income. These rents, set at nearly $1,000 per month for a one bedroom unit, are often too high for seniors on fixed incomes and low wage working families. From this discussion, it can be seen that the term "affordable" has many meanings and connotations for various income levels. What is considered affordable for working class families is often not affordable to very -low income households. H-9 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Income Definitions State and federal agencies use different definitions to describe income levels of households for purposes of administering housing programs, as described below. Throughout the text, both the percent of median income and the income category will be provided to avoid confusion from the various definitions used by different agencies. 1. Federal Income Level Definitions The federal government (Department of Housing and Community Development, or HUD) defines households that qualify for affordable housing based on five different income levels: extremely low income, low income, moderate income, middle income, and other. The Los Angeles County median income for 2008 was $59,800. HUD uses this number as a base for calculations of income maximums in each category below, taking into account the higher cost of living in Los Angeles County. For this reason, the allowable household incomes in each area will not match straight mathematical calculations. The qualified income levels in Santa Clarita based on federal guidelines are described below and in Table H-1.2. • Extremely Low -Income: An extremely low income household is one earning 30% or less of area median income. In 2008, a family of four in Santa Clarita earning $22,750 or less was considered extremely low income. • Very Low -Income: A low-income household earns between 31% and 50% of area median income. The very -low income limit for a family of four in 2008 was $37,900. • Low Income: A low income household is one earning between 51% and 80% of median income. The income limit for a low income four -person family in 2008 was $42,450. • Moderate Income: HUD defines a moderate income household as one earning between 81 % and 95% of median income. A moderate income family of four in 2008 in Santa Clarita was one that earns more than $48,438 but less than $56,810 of the median income. • Other: Households earning more than 95% of median income are described as "other." DRAFT May, 2011 H-10 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-1.2: Federal Income Levels Defined Income Levels Percentage of Median Income Approximate Income Maximum (Family of four in dollars) Extreme Very Low Less than 30% 22,750 Very Low 31%-50% 37,900 Low 51 %-80% 42,450 Moderate 81%-95% 48,438 to 56,810 Other Greater than 95% 56,810 The federal low-income housing tax credit program administered by the state's Tax Credit Allocation Committee sets affordable rents at 60% of median but gives additional application points to projects that target rents to households of even lower income. 2. State Income Level Definitions The State of California uses several sets of definitions for income -qualified households. For the Housing Element, the regional councils of government (including the Southern California Association of Governments, or SCAG), calculate future housing needs at the four income levels listed below and in Table H-1.3, but use the five above -listed federal categories in their calculations of existing need. • Extremely Low Income: Household income is less than 30 percent of Area Median Income (AMI). For a four -person household in Santa Clarita, a low income household would earn no more than $22,750. • Very Low -Income: Household income is 50 percent or less than the AMI, or $37,900 for a four -person household. • Low Income: Household income is 51 to 80 percent of the AMI, or no more than $42,450 for a four -person household. • Moderate Income: Household income is 81 to 120 percent of the AMI, or no more than $71,760 for a four -person household. H-11 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Table H-1.3: State Income Levels Defined Income Levels Percentage of Median Income Approximate Income Maximum (Family of four in dollars) Extreme Very Low Less than 30% 22,750 Very Low 31%-50% 37,900 Low 51 %-80% 42,450 Moderate 81 %-120% 71,760 Redevelopment law also uses the income categories used by SCAG. The state density bonus law makes provisions for housing affordable to households earning either 50% or 60% of median income. The housing programs administered by the California Department of Housing and Community Development use the categories created by the federal government. Area Median Income (AMI) AMI is the amount of annual family income at which half of all families in the area earn less and half earn more. AMI is a measure used by HUD and by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). According to a memo issued by HCD on April 6, 2006 entitled "2006 Income limits," AMI is "often, but not always, the greater of either 1) the median family income for a county's metropolitan statistical area or its non -metropolitan county; or 2) the median family income for non -metropolitan counties statewide; or 3) the area median income of the prior year". In 2008, HUD set the median income for Los Angeles County at $59,800 for a family of four. Median Family Income (MFI) MFI is a measure calculated and used by the Census at every level of Census geography. It is the midpoint of family income, the amount at which half of all families earn less and half earn more. This measure is used by the California Department of Finance. According to the 2006 American Community Survey, median family income for Santa Clarita in 2006 was $75,917. Cost -Burdened Households These are households in which more than the recommended amount of household income is spent on housing. The federal government sets standards for the amount a household should pay for housing at no more than 30% of their gross income for rent or mortgage, including utility costs. Households paying more than 30% of income for housing are considered cost -burdened, and households paying 50% or more for housing are considered extremely cost -burdened. DRAFT May, 2011 H-12 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element G. Who Qualifies for Affordable Housing? The income definitions contained in subsection F, above, meet State and federal guidelines. However, they do little to describe the residents of the Santa Clarita community that may qualify for affordable housing. Table H-1.4 has been included below to illustrate various income levels within Los Angeles County with respect to various types of employment. As this table shows, many people with full-time jobs might be classified as heading very -low, low-, or moderate - income households, and might be in need of affordable housing assistance. Table H-1.4: Household Income Levels and Sample Occupations Los Angeles County, 2008 Income Category Sample Occupations Annual Income for 4- Person Household Food service workers Extremely Low Laundry/dry cleaning Up to $22,750 (30% or less of AMI*) Hair shampooers Clerical $10.94/hr Cooks Nursing aides Medical assistants Very low Janitors $22,750 to $37,900 (31 - 50% of AMI) Child care workers Retail sales clerks $10.94/hr. to $18.22/hr Bakers Security guards Carpenters Plumbers Low Computer operators $37,900 to $42,450 (51 to 80% of AM I) Teachers Social service staff $18.22/hr to $20.40/hr Laboratory technicians *Area Median Income for the Los Angeles -Long Beach Area in 2008 was $59,800. Source: Karin Pally Associates, HUD User and Federal Employment Data H-13 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan II. REVIEW OF PRIOR HOUSING ELEMENT OBJECTIVES A. Success with Quantified Objectives The City's prior Housing Element revision was adopted in May, 2004. This section includes an evaluation of the objectives contained within the 2004 element to determine the City's level of success in achieving the prior goals and objectives. Between January 1, 1998 and June 30, 2005, an additional 6,757 housing units were constructed in the City of Santa Clarita, as summarized in Table H-2.1 below. Included in this number were 3,237 single-family units and 3,520 multi -family units (includes both rental and ownership units, such as condominiums, townhomes and duplexes). This number represented 94% of the City's RHNA allocation of 7,157 new units for the planning period of the 2004 element. Included in the newly constructed units were 20 very -low and 444 low-income units for seniors. Table H-3.11 in Section 3.D, Existing Housing Characteristics, shows the City's permit data by year for newly constructed housing units. The City also funded rehabilitation of 929 units during this period through its handy worker and rehabilitation grant programs. Although these units were not made affordable and, therefore, do not meet the objectives for preservation/conservation, maintenance of its existing housing stock is an important objective for the City and ensures that individuals and families whose resources are not adequate to maintain their homes can continue to live in safe and decent conditions. Table H-2.1 1998-2005 RHNA Objectives from 2004 Element and Accomplishments 1998-2005 RHNA Objectives 1998-2005 Accomplishments 1998-2005 from 2004 Element Income Groups New Rehabilitation New Rehabilitation Construction Cit Objective Construction Very low 1,256 210 20 (senior) 810 Low 941 430 444 (senior) 119 Moderate 1,439 120 0 Above Moderate 3,521 0 6,293* 0 Total 7,157 760 6,757 929 Source: City of Santa Clarita 2004 Housing Element, City records and Karin Pally Associates * Includes moderate units DRAFT May, 2011 H-14 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element B. Success in Meeting 2004 Goals, Policies, and Programs The City of Santa Clarita was successful in accomplishing many of the goals adopted in the 1998-2005 Housing Element (last revised in 2004). The following points summarize the City's major housing accomplishments during the last planning period. 1. The City constructed 6,757 new dwelling units, 94% of its RHNA allocation of 7,157 units. 2. The City provided assistance to a tax credit developer to produce 464 units of senior housing, including 20 affordable units to households earning 50% of median income and 444 units of housing affordable to households earning 60% of median income. 3. The City implemented a program of proactive Community Preservation to monitor and improved housing conditions in targeted neighborhoods. 4. The City provided rehabilitation and handy worker grants to 929 income -eligible households to make repairs related to safety, accessibility, and habitability, ensuring that residents could continue to live in housing that is healthy and safe. 5. In the land use plan and zoning map, the City ensured that adequate sites were zoned for residential uses of varying densities, sufficient for its entire RHNA allocation of 7,157 units. 6. Through its planning and permitting services, the City processed entitlements for construction of 4,247 new houses, condominiums and apartments in the City. 7. Through allocation of HOME funds, the City provided silent second loans to assist seven eligible households to become first-time homebuyers. 8. The City amended the Unified Development Code to provide additional incentives, such as a parking reduction, along with the State -mandated density bonus to developers who include a certain percentage of affordable units in their new housing developments. 9. The City contracted with the San Fernando Valley Fair Housing Council to provide fair housing services, including outreach, education and investigation of discrimination complaints. Table H-2.2 is a complete review of the housing programs included in the City's 2004 Housing Element, which includes programs and activities of the City between 1998 and 2005, the last housing element period. The table has three columns. The first column (Programs) reproduces the program adopted in the element and captures the objective. The second column (Result Evaluation) describes the results, if any, of program activities. The third column states the future status including the City's intention to continue, revise or discontinue the program, and provides a reference for that program in the programs section of the 2008 Housing Element. H-15 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Table H-2.2: Review of Housinq Proqrams, 1998-2005 Program/Objective Result Evaluation Future Status Goal 1: To provide opportunities for the production of a range of new housing in the planning area to meet the needs of all income groups. 1.a Expedite Affordable Two senior projects with 444 total units A policy has been added to this Housing Applications received expedited review. Element to prioritize affordable Prioritize and fulfill the housing projects by expediting existing housing needs of the The Public Works Department offers entitlement and permit community by expediting expedited plan check service for processing. See Policy H.2.1. incoming affordable housing developers. Under Goal 2: Assist in the project applications. Set Development. housing priorities through The City completed two CDBG various strategic planning Consolidated Plans (2000 and 2004), documents. identifying and prioritizing housing needs in the City. The CDBG Annual Action Plan linked the priorities established in the Consolidated Plan to activities planned for each year. The Redevelopment Agency 10-year Affordable Housing Plan was updated in 1997and 2007 and identified affordable housing needs. The need for affordable housing was clearly and consistently given a high priority, as shown in the strategic planning documents and City application review processes. 1.b Flexible Development The Unified Development Code currently The City of Santa Clarita plans to Standards allows for the creation of flexible continue this program by allowing Encourage the use of development standards through a specific plans and planned Specific Plans and Planned Specific Plan. developments through the Land Developments in order to Use Element and Unified provide flexible development Flexible development standards allow for Development Code. See Land standards, which allow clustering and a variety of site design Use Element Objectives LU 2.1, housing development to meet characteristics as deemed appropriate LU 2.3 and LU 3.1 the needs of the community. through project review. Projects approved under these provisions included smaller lot sizes and variable setbacks, providing more housing opportunities in the City. DRAFT May, 2011 H-16 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Program/Objective Result Evaluation Future Status 1.c Manufactured Housing The City's Unified Development Code Not included in 2008 programs Allow manufactured housing was amended in 1995 to permit section, because these provisions units within mobile home manufactured housing on lots located in are already in the Unified parks and on individual lots single-family zones with same Development Code. pursuant to State law and development standards as the specific City regulations. single-family zone. Completed. The City's Unified Development Code allows manufactured housing units in mobile home parks and on individual lots, subject to standards set forth in the Code. 1.d Mixed Use Overlay The Unified Development Code was Allow mixed uses within amended to create a Mixed Use Overlay Continue to allow and encourage designated areas of the City. along commercial corridors as specified in mixed use development to locate the objective. In addition, the City allows homes near services and public mixed -use projects in other zones subject transit, through implementation of to a conditional use permit. existing policies and regulations. This objective was completed in 2005 and No additional policies needed. placed in the Unified Development Code. In addition, the City included a Mixed Use land use designation as part of the One Valley One Vision General Plan Land Use Element for both urban centers and commercial corridors, allowing up to 50 units per acre. 1.e Newhall Residential Infill The effort included the formation of a Continue to implement the Program redevelopment agency, creation of a Downtown Newhall Specific Plan Adopt an Infill Incentive revitalization master plan, provision of and complete adoption of the Overlay Zone by year-end transit services, the construction of a North Newhall Specific Plan. See 2003 to facilitate residential Metrolink station, creation of the Newhall Program H. 1.4., and Land Use infill in Newhall, and re- Community Center, reconstruction of City Element policies. No additional designate RM neighborhoods streets and the addition of new sidewalks program is needed. to RMH. Offer density in a large residential neighborhood. bonuses and financial assistance to encourage The Downtown Newhall Specific Plan, integration of affordable units, adopted in 2005, allows a net gain of 700 as well as Agency assistance dwellings (new units and rehabilitated in site assembly. units) in the project area. 1.f Re -designation of Key The City evaluated redesignating two To be further analyzed as part of Sites to RH large sites to Residential High (RH) as a One Valley, One Vision (OVOVJ Re -designate the RMH means of expanding affordable housing City -County General Plan. portion of Golden Valley High opportunities. School site and the adjacent Sikand site to RH by mid- Completed. 2004. H-17 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Program/Objective Result Evaluation Future Status 1.g Emergency and City waived review fees for Emergency Continue current support of the Transitional Housing Winter Shelter (EWS) in 2003-2005. City EWS. In addition, the City will To provide cold weather staff worked with the County on the identify a zone where emergency emergency shelter during the Winter Shelter Task Force in 2006-07 to housing can be located by right winter months and housing find a long-term site for the Winter and provide support and assistance. Shelter. assistance for other shelter proposals as part of the Unified The Winter Shelter Task force was a Development Code. committee formed of representatives of both City of Santa Clarita and the County of Los Angeles Staff. In addition various members of the community including business owners, developers, residents, housing program operators and real estate agents comprise the rest of the task force. EWS received funds for operations and case management from the City's CDBG funds in 1998, 1999 and 2000. The City supported the Emergency Winter Shelter with staff time and financial resources. No permanent shelter site has been identified as of yet. The current location of the EWS has been approved in cooperation with the County of Los Angeles through 2010. GOAL 2: To identify adequate housing sites appropriately zoned with development standards, and public services and utilities needed to facilitate residential development. 2.a Land Use Data Base The City established a GIS Division in This is an ongoing program but is Develop and implement 1998 and has coordinated data and land not part of the Housing Element. computer -based land use use mapping for use in monitoring and information and mapping long-range planning. system. Complete. Information available on the internet and GIS layers added and u dated re ularl . 2.b Publicly Owned Land This objective is complete as staff has No further need to evaluate Use the City's land use evaluated publicly owned vacant land for existing public land for housing information database to residential development. All existing suitability. If new parcels of land identify vacant publicly -owned vacant land is not suitable are acquired by the City in the publicly -owned land. for residential development because it future, sites will be evaluated for was designated open space or not housing suitability. conducive to residential uses. DRAFT May, 2011 H-18 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Program/Objective Result Evaluation Future Status 2.c Periodic Review The City updates the Unified The City will continue to update Periodically the City shall Development Code periodically to make its codes and regulations as review and revise planning, modifications where deemed appropriate. needed to implement State law zoning, and development Development regulations are generally up and address housing needs. See regulations to ensure an to date with current development Programs under Goal 5. adequate supply for a variety principles. Density bonus program was of housing types and amended to comply with State law. programs. 2.d Site Acquisition During the evaluation period the See Programs H 1.6 and H 1.7 Utilize grant funding and Redevelopment Agency's set -aside funds redevelopment powers and for low- and moderate -income housing The City will continue to: funds, as available, to identify had insufficient funds for acquisition of . Work with selected non-profit sites to acquire property for land or development of housing. developers to identify and development of affordable assemble land for affordable housing. During 2005, City staff began working housing; with a non-profit affordable housing . Work with land owners developer to identify sites for the interested in developing development of affordable housing. affordable housing; • Explore the option of City routinely meets with other affordable commercial eminent domain housing developers and local land owners in the assembly of parcels for to assist them in evaluating feasibility of affordable housing units developing affordable housing units. within the redevelopment area. Despite limited funding, the City has been Explore opportunities to successful in identifying through RFQ and leverage RDA funds by using other means developers who are working other financing sources, such to identify sites and funding for affordable as HOME loans, Transit units in the near future. No sites acquired Oriented Development (TOD) or units developed to date, but efforts are funds, Infrastructure Infill ongoing. (Infill) grants, and tax credit financing. Goal 3; To provide sites suitable for a variety of housing types for all income levels and assist in the development and provision of affordable and proportionally prices and sized homes to meet the needs of all community residents, including low and moderate income, large families, handicapped, families with female heads of households, farm workers, and the elderly. H-19 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Program/Objective Result Evaluation Future Status 3.a Affordable Housing The Unified Development Code was See Program H 1.2, Affordable Incentives amended to incorporate State law Housing Density Bonus Program Expedite processing provisions regarding granting of density procedures for affordable bonuses and other incentives for Continue to offer incentives such housing projects and allow affordable housing. as expedited permit processing, the granting of development fee reductions, waivers to incentives including reduced Minimum state requirements for housing development standards or, use of development standards and incentives have been included in the CDBG funds for public fee reductions and waivers. City's development code. improvements for development proposals. The City Council has also adopted procedures and guidelines for conduit financing to encourage the construction of affordable housing within Santa Clarita. 3.b Redevelopment Housing The balance of low/mod housing set- The City of Santa Clarita plans to Funds aside funds at the end of the Housing continue to accumulate low/mod Accumulate tax increment Element Planning period was $947,491 housing set -aside funds and will set -aside funds available for (6/30/05). consider the possibility of issuing use in providing affordable bonds against projected tax housing opportunities within The amount of housing set -aside funds increment funds in order to fund the City. accumulated during the planning period larger scale projects. was higher than projected. The Agency combined this funding with other funding sources for support of a housing project, or to use as funds for debt service on the issuance of low/mod housing bonds. 3.c Affordable Housing During the evaluation period the City Program H 1.2 Funding Sources applied for and was awarded a $600,000 Because Santa Clarita's local HOME grant for the First -Time The City of Santa Clarita plans to funds for housing activities Homebuyer Program. Using the grant continue seeking all available are limited, the City must funds and existing program income, the funding sources for housing leverage outside funding City was able to provide seven low- programs. sources to most effectively interests, deferred -payment loans to address its identified housing low/mod income first-time homebuyers. needs. The City also continued to work with affordable housing developers to identify other funding sources. The City assisted in the development of two low/mod senior housing projects by waiving developer fees, providing low -interest loans, and supporting applications for tax credits and private activity bonds. DRAFT May, 2011 H-20 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Program/Objective Result Evaluation Future Status 3.d Density Bonuses Unified Development Code was amended The City of Santa Clarita will In compliance with State law to provide for density bonus and related continue implementing its Code offer additional incentives incentives such as parking reductions. provisions regarding housing along with a 25% and 35% incentives (see also Program 3 density bonuses to Completed. In accordance with State an above). developers who include law, the City will continue to provide a various levels of affordable density bonus of at least 25 percent or 35 Program H 1.2 has been added in housing in their percent above the maximum allowable the 2006-2014 Housing Element. developments. density along with one additional regulatory incentive. Consider allowing incentives/density bonuses exceeding State minimums, provided project design meets City policies and guidelines. 3.e First Time Homebuyer During the evaluation period the City The current program has been Program modified the First -Time Homebuyer completed as existing funds have Provides down payment Program to take into account the high been spent. Program H2.2 and assistance to low income cost of housing in Santa Clarita. A total of Program H2.3 are included in (80% MFI) households who seven loans were completed. 2006-2014 Housing Element to have either not owned a address continuing to seek home in three years, or are The City's program was successful HOME funds in the future. first time homebuyers. despite the rising cost of housing. 3.f Mortgage Credit The City continues to promote the MCC The City will continue to provide Certificate (MCC) Program program through the City's affordable information to homebuyers about The City participates in this housing brochure and City website. this program and will refer all first - program that provides a tax The Mortgage Credit Certificate Program time homebuyer applicants to the credit to low and moderate is not administered by the City; however, MCC program. income first-time staff has made information about the homebuyers. program available to residents by various means. 3.g Inclusionary Housing Feasibility study was not completed. No The City of Santa Clarita plans to Explore the feasibility of an inclusionary housing ordinance was continue to explore the option of inclusionary housing adopted. adopting an inclusionary housing program. In general, ordinance. "inclusionary housing" refers Not completed or adopted. to provisions within a Program H 1.8 jurisdiction's zoning code that require an established percentage of units within market -rate developments to be price -restricted as affordable to lower and moderate income households. H-21 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Program/Objective Result Evaluation Future Status 3.h Housing Bank Inclusionary housing ordinance was not Modify program to allow Should the City move forward adopted; therefore no Housing Bank was establishment of a Housing Fee with adoption of an established. account if the City adopts an Inclusionary Housing Program not adopted. Inclusionary Housing program in Ordinance, the Ordinance the future. would include an option to pay an affordable housing fee See Program H 1.6 and H 1.7 under certain circumstances in -lieu of constructing the required affordable units. 3.i Large Family Rental No program was developed. Delete. Large family housing will Housing be included in other affordable The City will develop a housing programs. See Program program to promote and H 2.1 accommodate the development of housing to meet the needs of large family renter households. GOAL 4: To maintain and improve the condition of the existing housing stock, particularly the affordable portion of the housing stock, where feasible 4.a Property The City added two community Continue both complaint -driven Maintenance/Code preservation officers funded by the and proactive community Enforcement general fund. In 1998-2005 periods, preservation/code enforcement. Require, by ordinance, 13,932 cases were opened and 12,467 property owners to issues closed or abated. Proactive area See Program H 3.1 consistently maintain their in Newhall identified in 2005 with 81 property in a clean, safe, and cases and 63 case closings. well kept condition. Staff considers this program successful. Thousands of property maintenance issues have been abated. 4.b CDBG Home The City operated two programs that The successful rehabilitation Rehabilitation Loan and provided grants to low income grant programs will be continued. Grant Program homeowners to maintain their homes and The City administers a Home property. 51 households received grants. See Program H 3.3 Rehabilitation program which Rehabilitation loans were also available. provides low interest, deferred interest loans and The rehabilitation programs are grants to income -qualified successful and growing each year. owner-occu pants. DRAFT May, 2011 H-22 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Program/Objective Result Evaluation Future Status 4.c Handyworker Program 978 households received Handyworker Continue to provide funds for the Provide a Handyworker grants, including 776 very low income Handyworker grant program to Program for repair grants to households. maintain housing stock. low-income households. Funded by the City's CDBG The Handyworker Program is successful See Program H.3.4 program. Residents may and growing each year. receive up to $2,000 annually. 4.d Demolition Regulations No new program was developed. The City was recently adopted Such a program shall include an historical preservation replacement of existing In relation to mobile home residential ordinance to maintain older units. affordable units or payment units, the City continued to administer a of an in -lieu fee for the 1990 change in use ordinance for mobile Continue to administer mobile construction of replacement homes closing or converting to other home park conversion ordinance. units and provision of uses. No mobile home parks closed relocation assistance to the during the planning period. tenants or other governmental assistance. Existing program requires park owners to pay relocation costs when they close parks. No replacement of affordable units/spaces is required. 4.e Rehabilitation Program A proactive Community Preservation area Delete. While the City will Targeting Establish a was established to facilitate rehabilitation. continue to promote the proactive Community CDBG funded rehabilitation programs rehabilitation programs within Preservation program in at- were specifically promoted in these at -risk targeted Community Preservation risk areas. areas. The demand for the rehabilitation areas, funds will be set aside only programs City-wide did not exceed the if it appears necessary to ensure funds available; therefore, it was not an adequate supply of funds to necessary to set aside funds for the the targeted areas. targeted areas. 4.f Employment Training The SCWCC provides employment Delete — While staff sees this The City operates a services, pre -employment training, case program as successful, this is not Workforce Investment Act management and vocational retraining for specifically a housing program. funded One -Stop called the adults, displaced workers and youth. Santa Clarita WorkSource The City has actively supported job California Center (SCWCC) development as a means of increasing which includes offices of the residents' ability to afford housing. State Employment However, this is not specifically a housing Development Department. program. H-23 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Program/Objective Result Evaluation Future Status 4.g Tax Exempt Multifamily No multi -family bond projects were The City will continue to seek all Bond Program developed in the City during the available funding sources to This program helps finance evaluation period promote development of below -market interest rate affordable housing loans for construction and permanent financing to developers of multi -family housing with at least 20 percent of the units for rent by households at or below 50 percent of Median Family Income. 4.h Los Angeles County The Section 8 Voucher program is Continue to provide information to Housing Authority -Section 8 administered by the Los Angeles County residents about housing Rental Assistance Program Housing Authority. However, the City programs administered by other The City participates in the provides information to residents about agencies. Section 8-Rental Assistance this program on its website, brochures Program through the Los and in direct communications. Angeles County Housing Authority. 4.i Preservation of Bond- City lost some bond -funded housing The City will continue to identify Financed Housing Program during the reporting period due to the housing units at risk of converting The Los Angeles Community expiration of the bonds. The City was to market -rate and seek Development Commission unable to identify a funding source or developers and/or funding works with owners to program that would keep the units sources to preserve these units refinance units previously affordable. as affordable. assisted with local bond funds to extend the term of affordability and to ensure continued affordability by facilitating and refinancing projects and assisting with financing alternatives. GOAL 5: To address and remove governmental constraints on the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing where appropriate and legally possible. DRAFT May, 2011 H-24 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Program/Objective Result Evaluation Future Status 5.a Mobile Home Park The MPROP program was available to The existing MPROP program is Conversion residents through HCD. No mobile home the most appropriate program to Investigate the possibility of park closures were proposed during the assist mobile home owners with offering financial assistance planning period; therefore, no feasibility the purchase of their mobile to permit cooperative mobile assessment was conducted. homes; therefore the City will not home park ownership by investigate providing additional senior citizen, disabled, or funds. lower income mobile home tenants. HCD offers the Mobile Home Park Resident Ownership Program (MPROP) which provides financing for the preservation of mobile home parks. 5.b One Stop Permit Applicants are issued preliminary The City will continue to seek Processing comments in order to solve potential ways to simplify and streamline In 1994, the City began a issues and determine the project's application processing as a one -stop application for viability before formal submittal. Staff departmental operational preliminary planning review. considers this program successful. procedure. No specific housing The City will continue to programs are needed. explore opportunities to simplify permit processing. 6.a Fair Housing Education Through an annual CDBG-funded Continue contracting for Fair and Outreach contract, the San Fernando Valley Fair Housing services. Support education, Housing Council provided outreach, counseling, and legal referral education, and litigation for tenants, See Program H 6.1 and H 6.2 efforts for residents who have landlords, buyers, and sellers experienced discrimination in violation of state and federal fair housing laws. 6.b Public Participation The required annual meetings were Delete. This is not a housing Hold at least one widely conducted. Additional meetings were program. publicized community held during the development of the meeting before amending the Consolidated Plan five-year strategic The City will continue to seek City's housing plans (Housing plan. public input on all amendments to Element, Redevelopment housing plans. Housing Plan and Public participation requirements for Consolidated Plan). CDBG were met. H-25 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Program/Objective Result Evaluation Future Status 7.a Site Design Features In 1992, the City adopted the UDC that Delete. Conservation of natural The UDC should continue to requires special review for hillsides and and open space resources, and provide for a variety of site significant ecological areas. land use interfaces between design features so that urban and wildland areas, are sensitive natural areas Many completed subdivisions have contained in the Conservation remain undisturbed. dedicated open space and park land in and Open Space Element and Consideration should be order to preserve some of the natural Land Use Element of the General given for preservation of habitat. Voters also passed an Open Plan. open space. Space assessment fee which is an annual tax that goes towards City acquisition of open space. 7.b Development Review The City's Community Development This program shall continue as The Development Review Department organizes weekly DRC part of land use programs. This is Committee (DRC) will meetings on various projects through the a policy. See policy H-5.1.3. In contribute suggestions to the City of Santa Clarita. As needed, housing addition, the program shall be revised zoning ordinance and and redevelopment staff attends the DRC modified. Future code will continue to operate and meetings and provide input. The DRC amendments should be evaluated refine criteria for approved has provided input on all proposed by all applicable departments to residential project Unified Development Code amendments ensure that regulations comply characteristics, including which may affect housing and subdivision with General Plan policies, standards and guidelines. and neighborhood design. including housing. DRAFT May, 2011 H-26 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element III. EXISTING HOUSING NEEDS This section of the element summarizes demographic and housing conditions in the City to draw conclusions about existing needs that should be addressed in the Housing Element. It provides an overview of the City of Santa Clarita's population, economic, housing, and other characteristics which are the foundation for the various housing programs proposed in the Housing Element. The Land Use Element of the General Plan describes the City's development pattern as encompassing older communities such as Newhall, Canyon Country and Saugus, and the newer, master -planned community of Valencia. In addition, there are low -density, picturesque areas such as Sand Canyon and Placerita Canyon within the City limits, where residents enjoy a rural lifestyle. Because the City is comprised of various communities that each have a well- defined identity, the City's General Plan recognizes the distinctive value of each of its communities and neighborhoods. Santa Clarita, incorporated in 1987, is the one of the newest cities in Los Angeles County. It is also the fourth largest city (53 square miles) and the fourth largest in population (approximately 177,000), exceeded only by the City of Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Glendale. Although two of its constituent communities, Newhall and Saugus, were founded in the 1880s, the majority of the housing in Santa Clarita has been built since the mid-1960s. Residents of Santa Clarita overall have a median income that exceeds the County median by about 20%. In 2006, estimated median household income in Los Angeles County (according to the 2006 American Community Survey of the U.S. Census) was $59,930, while in Santa Clarita it was $75,917. A. Population Characteristics, Economic Characteristics, and Housing Trends Characteristics Population According to the California Department of Finance (DOF), the population of Santa Clarita in January of 2007 was 177,158, an increase of 17.9% over the population in 2000. By contrast, the population of Los Angeles County as a whole grew only 3.5% during this period. Although the population in most areas in Los Angeles County increased mainly through natural growth (excess of births over deaths) during this period, the population of Santa Clarita also grew through annexation. Between 2005 and 2007, the City annexed three areas that added 2,643 units and 7,901 people to the City's population. Population in 2000 and 2006 is shown in Table H-3.1. H-27 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Table H-3.1: City Population, 2000 and 2006 U. S. Census American Department of 2000 Community Survey Finance (DOF) 2006 (ACS) 2006* 151, 088 158,940 177,158 Population estimate in 2006 by the American Community Survey (ACS) has an error of +/- 9,670. It is likely that the ACS Survey did not include the City's most recent annexations. Both ACS and DOF numbers are estimates, one based on sample survey data, the other based on local data such as building permits. Aqe The median age in Santa Clarita in 2006 was 33.7, nearly unchanged from 33.4 in 2000. The proportion of persons aged 20-34 decreased by 1.8% while the proportion of those aged 35-44 decreased by 2.2%. The other changes were in the 15 to 19 year old age range, which grew by about 1.8%, and those age 65 and older, which increased by 0.9%. When contrasted with the County as a whole, the areas of largest difference were in three age ranges. The group aged 20-34 was 3.7% larger Countywide than in Santa Clarita; this may reflect the lack of four-year educational opportunities, higher housing prices, and a smaller proportion of jobs in Santa Clarita relative to the County as a whole. In addition, a suburban lifestyle tends to be more attractive to families than to young adults, as reflected in the proportion of persons aged 35-44, which was larger in Santa Clarita than in the County as a whole. Santa Clarita's single-family, suburban character appears to have attracted households that are seeking homes in which to raise children. The proportion of persons age 65 and older is also smaller in Santa Clarita than in the County as a whole, with 8.0% of the City population age 65 and older in contrast to 10.2% Countywide. This trend may reflect the relatively recent development trends in Santa Clarita, where most of the housing has been constructed over the last twenty years and residents have not yet aged in place. Age of the City's population in 2000 and 2006 is shown in Table H-3.2 DRAFT May, 2011 H-28 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-3.2: Age Distribution for City and County Population, 2000 and 2006 Age Range 2000 Census % 2006 ACS % 2006 ACS City City County 0-4 11,829 7.8 12,607 7.9 741,942 7.5 5-14 26,982 17.9 27,218 17.1 1,482,753 14.9 15-19 11,047 7.3 14,423 9.1 755,741 7.6 20-34 29,699 19.7 28,476 17.9 2,149,581 21.6 35-44 29,338 19.4 27,284 17.2 1,550,427 15.6 45-54 20,969 13.9 23,116 14.5 11350,427 13.6 55-64 10,499 6.9 13,185 8.3 904,140 9.1 65-74 5,757 3.8 7,755 4.9 523,784 5.3 75 + 4,968 3.3 4,876 3.1 489,555 4.9 Total 151,088 100 158,940 100 9,206,408 100 Source: U. S. Census and 2006 American Community Survey H-29 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Race/Ethnicit Between 2000 and 2006, there was a change in the distribution of race and ethnicity in Santa Clarita. Persons identifying themselves as White declined both in number and proportion of the population, while the proportion and numbers of Asians, Latinos, and African Americans increased. Although persons identifying themselves as White still form the majority of Santa Clarita's population, the number of Whites in Santa Clarita declined over this period from 104,729 in 2000 to 91,002 in 2006. In 2000, Whites made up 69.2% of Santa Clarita's population and by 2006 they were 57.3% of the population. Although there were only 13,174 persons identifying themselves as Asian in 2006, the increase of 5,687 was a 75% increase over the 2000 Asian population of 7,487. The proportion of Asians in Santa Clarita's population grew from 4.9% to 8.3%. There was an even more substantial increase in the number of persons identifying themselves as Hispanic or Latino, from 31,243 to 44,569 (an increase of 37%). In 2006, Latinos made up 28% of Santa Clarita's population, increasing from 20.6% in 2000. Nevertheless, the proportion of Latinos in Santa Clarita is still substantially lower than in the population Countywide, which was 47.3% in 2006. The proportion of African Americans also increased but only slightly, from 1.9% to 2.1 % of the population, while proportions of American Indian/Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, persons identifying as Some Other Race or Two or More Races, made up 4.2% of the population in 2000, an increase of 31 % over its proportion of 3.2% in 2000. In terms of housing policy, there is a legitimate concern about whether households of different races and ethnic groups have equal access to rental and ownership housing including home loans. It is often difficult for renters and borrowers to identify discrimination when they have been turned down for a loan or an apartment rental, so it is recommended that the City periodically conduct the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing to evaluate whether homebuyers and renters in the City have equal access to housing. The City contracts with a fair housing organization to provide outreach, education and discrimination complaint investigation, and will conduct a new Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing in 2008-2009 (Program H 6.2). The City's Fair Housing programs are found in the Programs section under H 6.1.1 and H 6.1.2. Race and ethnicity for City residents in 2000 and 2006 are shown in Table H-3.3. DRAFT May, 2011 H-30 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-3.3: Santa Clarita Race and Ethnicity, 2000 and 2006 2000 Census No. % 2006 ACS No. % Total 151,381 100 Total 158,940 100 Not Hispanic or Latino 120,138 79.4 Not Hispanic or Latino 114,371 72.0 White 104,729 69.2 White 91,002 57.3 African American 2,949 1.9 African American 3,404 2.1 American Indian or Alaska Native 297 0.2 American Indian or Alaska Native 856 0.5 Asian 7,487 4.9 Asian 13,174 8.3 Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander 281 0.2 Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander 636 0.4 Some Other Race 375 0.2 Some Other Race 517 0.3 2 Or More Races 4,010 2.6 2 Or More Races 4,782 3.0 Latino or Hispanic 31,243 20.6 Latino or Hispanic 44,569 28.0 Source: 2006 American Community Survey. Note that the possible error in this particular table of the 2006 American Community Survey is quite large, so the community will have to wait until the 2010 Census to determine the exact distribution of population by race and ethnicity. Income According to the 2006 American Community Survey, the median income in Santa Clarita (meaning the point at which half of all households earn less and half earn more), is $75,917, which is 27% higher than the Countywide median income of $59,930. However, since 2000, the difference in median income between the City and the County has narrowed considerably. In 2000, the County median income was $42,189 compared to the median income in the City of $66,717, a difference of 58%. Median income is used to gauge whether housing in a community is affordable to most residents. Although median income in Santa Clarita is higher than the County as a whole, it was not high enough to qualify households to purchase the single-family homes that were sold in the City during June 2008, although it would have been sufficient to purchase several of the condominiums sold in the City that month. H-31 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Table H-3.4: Santa Clarita Income Distribution, 2000 and 2006 2000 Census Number % 2006 ACS Number % Total Households 50,697 100 Total Households 51,029 100 Less than $10,000 2,074 4.1 Less than $10,000 976 1.9 $10,000 to $14,999 1,683 3.3 $10,000 to $14,999 1,579 3.1 $15, 000 to $24, 999 3,020 6.0 $15, 000 to $24, 999 3,485 6.8 $25, 000 to $34, 999 4,054 8.0 $25, 000 to $34, 999 3,959 7.8 $35, 000 to $49, 999 6,799 13.4 $35, 000 to $49, 999 5,482 10.7 $50,000 to $74,999 11,199 22.1 $50,000 to $74,999 9,627 18.9 $75, 000 to $99, 999 8,798 17.4 $75, 000 to $99, 999 9,280 18.2 $100,000 to $149,999 8,748 17.3 $100,000 to $149,999 10,255 20.1 $150,000 to $199,999 2,407 4.7 $150,000 to $199,999 3,112 6.1 $200,000 or more 1,915 3.8 $200,000 or more 3,273 6.4 Source: American Community Survey Employment The distribution of employment by industry remained relatively consistent over the period 2000 to 2006, with a small increase in the proportion of employment in professional occupations and a small decrease in manufacturing. The single largest employer is Six Flags Magic Mountain, with 3,878 or nearly 5% of all jobs in 2006. Saugus Union School District and William S. Hart Union School District are next, together providing 4,104 jobs. However, much of the employment in the City is generated from small businesses (60 percent). Construction accounts for about six percent of employment. Small area data on unemployment is not readily available so it is not possible to determine the current local unemployment rate. Data from the California Employment Development Department show that unemployment increased in Los Angeles County as a whole from 4.4% in May of 2007 to 6.9% in July of 2008. Based on the downturn in the housing construction industry, which has also affected mortgage, escrow and title services, it is expected that unemployment has risen in the City consistent with Countywide numbers. Table H-3.5 shows the industry sectors in which residents of the City are employed (note that this table does not show the location of these jobs, which may be within or outside of the City limits). DRAFT May, 2011 H-32 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-3.5: Employment by Industry, 2000 and 2006 Census 2000 Number % ACS 2006 Number % Agriculture, Forestry, Other 287 0.4 Agriculture, Forestry, Other 313 0.4 Construction 4,612 6.1 Construction 4,556 5.9 Manufacturing 9,653 12.8 Manufacturing 7,969 10.1 Wholesale Trade 2,537 3.4 Wholesale Trade 1.918 2.4 Retail Trade 8,232 10.9 Retail Trade 8,373 10.6 Transportation 3,239 4.3 Transportation 3,974 5.0 Information 5,159 6.8 Information 4,912 6.2 Finance 5,990 7.9 Finance 5,854 7.4 Professional 8,573 11.4 Professional 10,343 13.1 Educational 13,660 18.1 Educational 14,673 18.5 Arts, Entertainment 6,037 8.0 Arts, Entertainment 7,851 9.9 Other Services 3,636 4.8 Other Services 4,303 5.4 Public Administration 3,746 5.0 Public Administration 3,965 5.0 Total 75,361 Total 79,104 Source: American Community Survey More than 40% of workers living in Santa Clarita in 2000 were employed in management and professional occupations. By 2006, the American Community Survey found a slight decrease in management and professional occupations and an upturn in service occupations, a category that includes health care support (but not technicians) and protective services such as firefighting and law enforcement. Table H-3.6 shows the occupations in which residents of the City are employed (note that this table does not indicate the location of these jobs, which may be within or outside of the City limits). H-33 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Table H-3.6: Employment by Occupation 2000 Census Number % 2006 ACS Number % Management, professional 30,829 40.9 Management, professional 29,579 37.4 Service occupations 10,605 14.1 Service occupations 14,544 18.4 Sales and office 21,095 28.0 Sales and office 22,202 28.1 Farming, fishing, forestry 16 0 Farming, fishing, forestry 0 0 Construction, maintenance 6,142 8.2 Construction, maintenance 6,114 7.7 Production, transportation 6,674 8.9 Production, transportation 6,665 8.4 Total 75,361 Total 79,104 Source: American Community Survey: Selected Economic Characteristics 2006 The Census does not provide data on the number of jobs within Santa Clarita. It does however, ask, whether the employed population works within or outside its City of residence' and the length of time required for the commute to work. This data was available for 2000, but was not available in the 2006 American Community Survey. In Santa Clarita in 2000, 32.2% of the workforce aged 16 and over worked within the City of Santa Clarita, while 67.8% of workers worked in other communities. Of those who did not work at home, 47% had a drive ranging from less than five minutes to 29 minutes; another 22% drove between 30 and 44 minutes; 25% between 45 and 89 minutes; and 3.9% were driving 90 or more minutes to work.2 In the General Plan Land Use Element, the City has adopted a goal of at least 1.5 jobs per household at buildout, along with policies to promote job development. To accomplish this, the City will pursue two jobs for every new household as part of its adoption of the One Valley One Vision General Plan. The efforts of the City to facilitate development that provides local jobs will help residents afford housing within the City. However, because of the housing prices in Santa Clarita, it is likely that low wage service and manufacturing jobs will continue to be filled by workers who live outside the City. On its website, the City has posted a list of the largest employers in Santa Clarita. Table H-3.7 shows these employers and the number employed by each in 2007. The two largest (and largely overlapping) categories of employers are public agencies and education. There are 9,441 jobs in education (47.9% of all jobs in the table) and 8,653 jobs (43.8%) of jobs in public agencies. ' 2000 Census Table P27, Place of Work for Workers 16 Years and Over 2 2000 Census Table P31, Travel Time to Work for Workers 16 Years and Over DRAFT May, 2011 H-34 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-3.7: Largest Employers in the City Company Type of Business Employees Six Flags Magic Mountain Theme Park 3,878 Saugus Union School District Public Elementary School District 2,095 William S. Hart Union School District Public Junior & Senior High School Dist. 2,009 Princess Cruises Vacation Cruise Service 1,850 U.S. Postal Service Governmental - Postal Service 1,707 College of the Canyons Community College 1,411 Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital Health Care Services 1,355 Newhall School District Public Elementary School 825 The Master's College Private Liberal Arts College 741 Specialty Laboratories Medical R&D 700 H.R. Textron Aerospace Manufacturer 688 City of Santa Clarita Municipal Government 606 California Institute of the Arts Private Art School 510 Aravto Services Business Services 505 Aerospace Dynamics Aerospace Structural Components 437 Fanfare Media Works International Printing and Publishing 407 Total 19,724 Source: City of Santa Clarita website: www.santa-clarita.org B. Overpayment and Overcrowding The following section addresses two critical components of housing: overcrowding and overpayment. These two topics are both related to lack of housing affordability and demonstrate the need for creating more opportunities for affordable housing. Overcrowding The Census defines overcrowding in a dwelling as 1.01 or more persons per room. The kitchen, living, dining and bedrooms are counted as "rooms" but the bathroom is excluded, for purposes of this definition. A unit is considered severely overcrowded if there are 1.51 or more persons per room. Overcrowding can indicate a problem with housing affordability. Typically, overcrowding results when, in order to cope with high housing costs, households that need three or four bedrooms squeeze into a smaller apartment, or two families reduce expenses by sharing an apartment or single-family home. According to the 2000 Census, 1,065 or 2.8% of Santa Clarita's 37,801 owner -occupied units were overcrowded and another 808 or 2.1 % were severely overcrowded. Overcrowding was more frequent among renter households than owner -occupied dwellings, with 883 or 6.9% of the 12,794 rental households reporting more than 1.01 persons per room, and another 1,179 or 9.2% severely overcrowded households reporting 1.5 or more persons per room. H-35 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan In 2000, 4,445 or 35% of all rental units had more than two bedrooms. There were 6,188 units (48.3%) with one or two bedrooms and 2,251 (17.5%) units with only one or two rooms. The amount of overcrowding (a total of 16.1 % of renter households) indicates that despite an ample supply of larger units, the disparity between the low incomes of a portion of Santa Clarita households and the high median rents (as shown in Table 3.13 under Housing Characteristics), means that in order to afford their rent, some families have to crowd into units that are too small to adequately accommodate the number of family members. Overpayment Table H-3.8 shows the housing cost burdens of Santa Clarita renters and owners according to the 2000 Census.3 Federal standards set the amount that lower income households should pay for rent at about 30% of their income. Federal Housing Administration (FHA) guidelines for owners set the proportion of gross income paid for mortgage costs alone at 29% of income, with an allowance of 41 % of gross income for all debt. Extremely low-income owners and renters in Santa Clarita, meaning those earning 30% or less of median income, have very high cost burdens. Nearly three quarters of both renters and owners in this income category are paying more than half their incomes for housing costs. Even when households earn between 30% and 50% of the median income, 65.6% of renters and 61 % of owners are paying more than half their incomes for housing. Housing cost burdens are not as high among renters and owners who earn between 51 % and 80% of median income. Table H-3.8 shows that although 72.1 % of renters and 67.3% of owners in this income category are paying more than 30% of income for housing, only 17.2% of renters pay more than 50% of their incomes for rent, while 43.4% of owners still have housing cost burdens of more than 50% of income. It is clear from this data that high housing costs impose a severe burden on those with the lowest incomes. It is not possible to tell from the Census data whether costs for owners are calculated before or after taxes. If before taxes, then owners' real costs may be somewhat lowered by the mortgage interest deduction. s Table H3.8 refers to income as a percent of MFI. This is median family income, a measure used by the U.S. Census. The median is the midpoint of all family incomes, the point at which half of all families earn less and half earn more. See Section I F, definitions of Housing Terms, for more information. DRAFT May, 2011 H-36 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-3.8: Housing Cost Burden in Santa Clarita, 2000 Housing Cost Burden All Renters All Owners Total Households Household Income 1,572 1,030 2,602 <=30% MFI Cost Burden > 30% 74% 73.3% 77.6% Cost Burden > 50% 66.5% 64.8% 73.8% Household Income 1,385 1,169 2,554 >30% <=50% MFI Cost Burden > 30% 88.6% 82.2% 85.7% Cost Burden > 50% 65.9% 61.0% 63.7% Household Income 1,857 2,557 4,414 >=50% <=80% MFI Cost Burden > 30% 72.1 % 67.3% 69.3% Cost Burden > 50% 17.2% 43.4% 32.4% Source: HUD User CHAS Databook based on 2000 Census data C. Households with Extremely Low Incomes Data for 2006 from the American Housing Survey show that 7,574 persons (7%) of Santa Clarita's population, and 2,601 households (6.1 %), lived below the poverty level in 2006. The rate of poverty Countywide was considerably higher at 15.4%. However, both poverty rates may be underestimated. In a May 2006 report for the Public Policy Institute of California, Deborah Reed analyzed the cost of living nationwide and concluded that because California has a substantially higher cost of living than many other areas in the country, a California poverty rate of 15% is actually comparable to 18% in terms of the buying power of California incomes. a The poverty level for a three -person family in California 2008 was $17,600. In contrast, the 2008 HUD -established income limit for a family of three at 30% of median (extremely low income) in the Los Angeles -Long Beach Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) was $20,500. In Santa Clarita, most of the people living in poverty (5,146 or 68%) were adults age 18 to 64. Another 21 % were children under age 18. Eight percent were adults aged 65 and over. Poverty persists, even among working families, because much of the job growth in Southern California has been in the low -wage service and retail sectors. These jobs, paying less than $10 per hour, do not provide full-time workers with enough income to lift their families out of poverty. For example, a full-time worker earning the California minimum wage of $8.00 per hour earns only $16,640 per year. Table H-3.9 provides data from the Comprehensive Housing Affordability (CHAS) tables prepared by HUD for use in Consolidated Plans. These tables are a special run of data from the 2000 Census. The table summarizes data for extremely low-income, non -elderly 4 Reed , Deborah. (May 2006). "Poverty in California." California Counts Vol. 7. No. 4. Publisher: The Public Policy Institute of California. H-37 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan households. (Data for one- and two -person elderly households are in the Special Needs Section under Elderly.) As shown on Table H-3.9, large numbers of Santa Clarita's extremely low income households have excessive housing cost burdens. Nearly three quarters of all renter and owner households earning less than 30% of median income in 2000 were paying more than half their incomes for housing. Table H-3.9: Housina Cost Burden for Non-Elderlv. Extremelv-Low Income Households. 2000 Housing Cost Renters Owners All Burden Households Small Large All Small Large All Elderly & Related Related Other Related Related Other Non Elderly Household Income 889 214 10,005 149 10 249 4,348 <=30% MFI Cost Burden > 83.8 83.6 78.6 86.6 100 80.3 74.1 30% Cost Burden > 74.8 67.3 73.6 86.6 200 76.3 61.9 50% Any Housing 86.5 100 80.6 86.6 200 80.3 74.1 Problem Source: HUD User CHAS Databook from Census 2000 data http://socds.huduser.org/chas/index.html D. Characteristics of Existing Housing Stock Increase in Housing Units According to the California Department of Finance (DOF), there were 58,714 households in Santa Clarita in January 2008. Between 2000 and 2008, Santa Clarita's housing stock increased by 6,258, of which 2,643 units were annexed into the City in 2006. The remaining 3,615 units were newly constructed. Average housing production over the eight -year period, according to DOF, was 426 units per year. There was some multi -family construction at the beginning of the decade, with 337 units constructed in buildings of five or more units built in 2002, and another 638 units in 2003. The number of properties with two -to -four units increased slightly over the period, with a total increase of 284 units. Table H-3.10 shows the housing production numbers for the City as tabulated by the DOF. DRAFT May, 2011 H-38 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-3.10: Increases in Santa Clarita's Housing Units 2000 - 2008 Year Total Units Single- Family Detached Single - Family Attached (condo) 2-4 Units 5 Units Mobile Homes Occupied Units Vacancy Rate Persons Per Household 2000 52,456 31,784 6,314 2,547 9,571 2,240 50,798 3.16 2.948 2001 52,750 32,092 6,314 2,573 9,571 2,240 51,121 3.16 2.980 2002 53,612 32,549 6,314 2,601 9,908 2,240 51,917 3.16 3.021 2003 54,579 32,857 6,314 2,622 10,546 2,240 52,853 3.16 3.051 2004 54,810 33,085 6,314 2,625 10,546 2,240 53,077 3.16 3.073 2005 55,439 33,519 6,314 2,820 10,546 2,240 53,686 3.16 3.083 2006 55,530 33,606 6,314 2,824 10,546 2,240 53,774 3.16 3.081 2007 58,568 36,020 6,938 2,824 10,546 2,240 56,715 3.16 3.082 2008 58,714 36,160 6,937 2,831 10,546 2,240 56,859 3.16 3.089 Source: California Department of Finance, Report E-5 revised Jan. 2008 The American Community Survey (ACS) estimated that there were 54,295 units in the City in 2006 (with an error of +/- 2,513)5. However, it is likely that the ACS number does not include the 2,658 units annexed in 2006. The DOF estimates, which are adjusted regularly, are more current and more accurate than ACS, because they are based on building permit and other data provided annually by the City. Table H-3.11 shows the annual data records for newly constructed housing units between 1998 and 2008 from both the Department of Finance Table E-5 and the City's building permit data. The City's data is more complete and includes 1998, 1999 and 2000. Some of the difference between the two sources on annual construction figures by year can be explained by the fact that DOF's data is actually for the units completed in the previous year. The totals for 2000 to 2008 can not be compared because data for 2000 is missing from the DOF data and data for 2008 is missing from the City's data. However, both sources make it clear that annual construction varies considerably by year, with its lowest point in eight years in 2006 (at the beginning of the recent mortgage lending crisis). Table 3.11 also provides the source for determining whether the City met its RHNA obligation between 1998 and 2005. The City's data shows clearly that 6,757 units were newly constructed in Santa Clarita between 1998 and 2005, 94% of the City's RHNA obligation of 7,157 units. 5 Table B25024 "Units in Structure," 2006 American Community Survey H-39 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Table H-3.11: Santa Clarita Housing Growth 2000-2008 Year New Units —City Data New Units DOF Data 1998 609 - 1999 1,542 - 2000 288 - 2001 931 294 2002 962 862 2003 553 967 2004 1,685 231 2005 187 629 2006 146 91 2007 Annexed units New units 225 3,038 2,643 (annexed) 395 2008 144 Total 1998-2005 2,983 Total new units 2000- 2007 6,757 3,615 (2001-2008) Source: DOF Report E-5 revised January, 2008 Households by Tenure According to the American Housing Survey, 39,373 or 74% of Santa Clarita's housing units were owner occupied, and 13,809 or 26% were renter -occupied in 2006. Vacancy Table H-3.10 shows the California Department of Finance (DOF) estimates for the vacancy rate in Santa Clarita. The DOF vacancy rate estimate of 3.16% is simply the vacancy rate in 2000 carried forward. Its accuracy is unknown. At this point, it is difficult to accurately estimate the residential vacancy rate in Santa Clarita. The ACS vacancy rate is an estimate based on a small sample in 2005, before the foreclosure crisis began. Although data is available on the number of foreclosures in the second quarter of 2008 (see Table H-3.18), it is not possible to tell how many foreclosed units are vacant at this time. DRAFT May, 2011 H-40 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Housing Stock by Year Built The majority of the homes in what is now the City of Santa Clarita were developed before incorporation in 1987. The City is made up of recently -developed suburban communities in which more than half (57.8%) of the homes were constructed in 1980 or later. More than one third of all residences in the City were constructed between 1980 and 1989 (see Table 3.12). In contrast, average housing stock throughout the County is considerably older, with 78% of the homes built before 1980. The relatively recent development of most of the housing stock means that most of Santa Clarita's neighborhoods are in good condition. A survey of housing conditions conducted in selected neighborhoods found that fewer than 8% of structures were in need of substantial rehabilitation (see Table H-3.19). Table H-3.12: Santa Clarita and Countywide Housing Stock, by Year Built 6 Year Built Santa Clarita Units Percent L.A. County Units Percent 2005 or later 888 1.6 19,929 0.5 2000-2004 4,502 8.3 99,947 3 1990-1999 7,557 13.9 204,407 6.1 1980-1989 18,532 34.1 397,708 11.8 1970-1979 9,777 18.0 481,406 14.3 1960-1969 10,318 19.0 497,799 14.8 1950-1959 1,551 2.9 733,349 21.9 1940-1949 672 1.2 414,421 12.3 Before 1940 498 0.9 506,452 15.1 Total 54,295 100 r3,356,418 100 Source: 2006 ACS and California Dept. of Finance Report E-5 2007 Home Prices and Rental Rates Table H-3.13 summarizes a survey of the advertised rents in 808 rental units listed online in May, 2008. The table shows the range of rents and the median rent (the point at which half of the rents are higher and half lower) for units of different sizes. The income needed to afford the rent was calculated at two and a half (2.5) times the monthly rent, or about 40% of gross income, based on information provided by property managers surveyed. The cost of utilities is not included. 6 Census data is now eight years old so some of the older units may have been demolished since 1990. H-41 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Table H-3.13: Market Rents, Santa Clarita 2008 Unit Type # of Average Median Income to Afford at Units Rent Range Rent Rent 2.5 X Average Rent' 1 bedroom 167 $740-1769 $1,177 $1,275 $35,310 apt/house 2 bedroom apt/house 372 1,000-2,795 1,609 1,590 48,270 3 bedroom apt./house 197 1,097-3,200 2,178 2,100 65,340 4 bedroom apt/house 72 1,650-7,000 2,869 2,800 86,070 Source: www.4rentinla.com , May 28, 2008, prepared by Karin Pally Associates Table H-3.14 shows the maximum rents that the Los Angeles County Housing Authority will approve for tenants with Section 8 vouchers. The "fair market' rents in each area are designated by HUD through a process in which the local housing authority submits a survey of area rents and recommendations for maximum allowable rents, and HUD staff review and approve or change the recommendations. HUD -approved "fair market rents" are set for the whole County or metropolitan statistical area and may be lower than median rent in many communities, making it difficult for renters with Section 8 vouchers to find apartments that the housing authority will approve. Table H-3.14 shows that, when compared with the median rents in Table H.3.13, HUD -approved maximum rents fall below both the median and the average rents for Santa Clarita. Nevertheless, the rent range in Table H-3.13 shows that there are units available at a cost that the Section 8 program would approve. So renters with Section 8 vouchers may have a hard time finding apartments that rent at a cost the housing authority will approve, but some units at "fair market" are available in Santa Clarita. Table H-3.14: Section 8 Fair Market Rents Bedroom Size Rent 0 Bedroom (studio) $ 863 1 Bedroom $1,041 2 Bedrooms $1,300 3 Bedrooms $1,746 4 Bedrooms $2,101 5 Bedrooms $3,151 Source: Housing Authority, County of Los Angeles ' In Santa Clarita in 2008, an income of 2.5 times the rent is the standard used by many property managers to qualify prospective tenants, based on conversations with several property managers. DRAFT May, 2011 H-42 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-3.15 and Exhibit H-3.1 shows the average price for single-family homes and condominiums in Santa Clarita in June 2008, and the percentage decline from the average price in the same zip code in the same month in 2007. It should be noted that price declines have not occurred uniformly throughout the City. In total, there were 263 units sold. It was not possible to determine how many of these units were newly constructed, how many were resale, or how many were foreclosed units. However, real estate analysts attribute the continued decline in housing prices to the availability of foreclosed units at reduced prices, so it is reasonable to assume that a portion of the units sold in June were in foreclosure. Table H-3.15: Home Sales in Santa Clarita, June 2008 Zip Code # of Home Sales 6/08 Average Price 6/08 Change Dome 6/07 # of Condo Sales 6/08 Average Price 6/08 % Change frrome6/07 91321 16 $470,000 -25.4 11 $250,000 -15.0 91350 25 $415,000 -20.6 4 $305,000 -14.1 91351 21 $330,000 -36.6 6 $217,000 -38.4 91354 10 $450, 000 -26.2 8 $386, 000 -12.3 91355 33 $421, 000 -34.0 7 $300, 000 -15.5 91381 19 $720,000 -15.5 9 $405,000 -3.8 91384 22 $480, 000 -19.5 1 $263, 000 -15.9 91387 24 $415,000 -23.9 23 $249,000 -30.0 91390 22 $606,000 -9.9 2 $304,000 21.4 Total 192 71 Source: www.DQNews.com June 2008 Tables H-3.16 and H-3.17 show the costs and income needed to afford single-family homes and condominiums in June, 2008. The calculations are based on a 10% down payment with an interest rate of 6.125%. Monthly payments include property taxes, hazard insurance, and mortgage insurance. Households with the higher qualifying income would be paying 30% of income for the mortgage, while households at the lower amount would be paying 40%. A comparison of housing prices in these tables with the income distribution shown in Table H- 3.4 indicates that condominiums are generally affordable to households earning the median income in Santa Clarita. The 18.2% of Santa Clarita households earning between $75,000 and $99,000 per year could afford the average price of condominiums sold in June, 2008. However, even with the steep drop in housing prices in 2007-08, single-family homes were not affordable for median income households, and only the 32.6% of Santa Clarita households that earned $100,000 or more annually could purchase an average -priced single-family home in June, 2008. H-43 DRAFT May, 2011 a glj4 ovd City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-3.16 Cost and Income Needed to Purchase a Single -Family Home in Santa Clarita, June 2008 Zip Code Average Price 6/08 Loan Amount Down Payment Monthly Payment Income to Qualify 91351 $330,000 $297,000 $33,000 $2,380.78 $71,424 - 95,232 91350 91387 $415, 000 $373, 500 $41, 500 $2, 994.02 $89, 820 - 119,760 91355 $421, 000 $378, 900 $42,100 $3, 037.00 $91,116 - 121,488 91354 $450, 000 $405, 000 $45, 000 $3, 246.52 $97, 392 - 129,864 91321 $470,000 $423,000 $47,000 $3,390.81 $101,724 - 135,636 91384 $480,000 $432,000 $48,000 $3,462.96 $103,884 - 138,516 91390 $606,000 $545,400 $60,600 $4,371.99 $131,160 - 174,876 91381 $720,000 $647,900 $72,100 $5,193.00 $155,808 - 207,756 Source: www.mortgagel0l.com and Karin Pally Associates Table H-3.17 Cost and Income Needed to Purchase a Condominium in Santa Clarita. June 2008 Zip Average Loan Down Monthly Income to Qualify Code Price 6/08 Amount Payment Payment 91351 $217,000 $195,300 $21,700 $1,565.54 $46,968 - 62,616 91321 91387 250000 225,000 25,000 1,803.62 54,108 - 72,144 91384 263,000 236,700 26,300 1,897.41 56,928 - 75,900 91355 300,000 270,000 30,000 2,164.35 64,932 - 86,568 91350 91350 305,000 274,500 30,500 2,200.42 66,012 - 88,020 91354 386,000 347,400 38,600 2,784,80 83,544 - 111,396 r91-381 405,000 1 364,500 40,500 1 2,921.87 1 87,660 - 116,880 Source: www.mortgage101.com and Karin Pally Associates Foreclosures The subject of foreclosures on mortgage loans for homes and condominiums has been of national and statewide concern in 2007-08 due to the large number of families that have lost their homes during this period. In many cases, foreclosures have occurred on loans that were made subject to adjustable interest rates and/or balloon payments that seemed reasonable in an expanding housing market, but which became excessive for homeowners in an economic downturn and contracting housing market. In the context of the Housing Element, foreclosures are an issue because they result in displaced households that may have trouble finding adequate, affordable replacement housing; they may result in vacant housing stock that is subject to vandalism or lack of maintenance; and the foreclosure crisis affects the economy due to loss of jobs in construction, finance, real estate, and related industries. H-45 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan There were 473 foreclosures in the City of Santa Clarita in the second quarter of 2008, more than three times the number of foreclosures during the same period in 2007 (See Table H-3.18 and Exhibit H-3.2). This number is also an increase over the first quarter of 2008, when there were 315 foreclosures. Despite these numbers, monthly home sales in the City exceeded foreclosures in the second quarter of 2008; there were 263 single-family homes and condominiums sold in June 2008 alone, indicating that the City's housing market is continuing to function, despite drops in prices and increases in foreclosures. However, the foreclosures pose a number of problems for the Santa Clarita community by displacing families, depressing housing prices (which are continuing to fall as demonstrated by Table H-3.15), and leaving some neighborhoods with vacant housing that is not adequately maintained. A more extensive discussion of foreclosures is provided in the section of the Housing Element entitled Non -Governmental Constraints (Part VII), which discusses current programs that help families facing foreclosures and programs that might address the maintenance issues resulting from vacant, foreclosed units. The City does not have a count of how many foreclosed units are vacant at any one time, nor does the housing conditions survey conducted by City staff in February 2008 separately report properties that appeared to be vacant and unmaintained (See Table H-3.19 and related discussion). Table H-3.18: Foreclosures in Santa Clarita, 2007 and 2008 Zip Code Second Quarter 2007 Second Quarter 2008 2007 Households 91321 19 51 11,555 91350 16 60 9,051 91351 29 92 10,167 91354 12 54 7,795 91355 16 37 11,911 91381 12 33 4,739 91384 15 38 6,474 91387 27 76 12,686 91390 6 32 6,554 Total 152 473 69,377 Source: City of Santa Clarita Community Development Department Mobile Home Parks There are 15 mobile home parks in the City of Santa Clarita, comprising 1,993 spaces (See Exhibit H-3.3). On its website, the City provides a list of these parks along with contact information. Of these individual spaces, 1,964 are subject to the City's mobile home space rent control ordinance, with 436 spaces reserved for seniors. In addition to regulating the amount that park owners can charge owners of park residents for space rent, City ordinance also regulates the closure of mobile home parks, requiring that the owners provide notice and pay for the relocation of mobile homes to another comparable park within the City of Santa Clarita. Space rent for mobile homes is adjusted annually by a five -member adjustment panel. DRAFT May, 2011 H-46 0 N T (6 H LL d' r V S na `6a- 11 !Y # All 00 I D j 21jgJ �88 pl e b � � G w g� yg OT 0$ m + x04AD IwI p� a 19 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Two mobile home parks in Santa Clarita have applied for change in use. The Caravilla Mobile Home Park application was approved in 2008. The approval included the State process of valuation, setting of HOA fees, and other procedures needed to allow this project to move forward. The owner of Canyon Breeze Mobile Home Park has a development application on file and has submitted an application for a Tentative Permit to close the park. The park owner is currently negotiating the purchase of mobile homes and relocation compensation with the residents. When all agreements are in place the owner will be able to obtain a Final Permit to close. There were originally 90 mobile homes in this park, but the number has been reduced by attrition to 26 remaining spaces at this time. Housing Condition As shown in Table H-3.12, almost 60% of the City's housing stock has been constructed since 1980. The relatively recent development of much of the City means that most of the housing has been built pursuant to recent building codes and seismic standards, is served by adequate sewer and utility systems, has access to adequate schools and parks, and is maintained in a safe, habitable condition for residents. A few portions of the City have older housing units, in which property maintenance issues arise more often. These areas are regularly monitored by the City's Community Preservation Section to ensure that property maintenance issues are addressed immediately before the properties deteriorate into a blighted condition. Lack of maintenance can have a negative effect not only on the value of an individual home, but on the value of adjacent properties in a neighborhood. The City pursues remedies to gain code compliance, and offers assistance to qualified homeowners with maintenance needs that they cannot afford to pay for themselves. The City's Community Preservation program responds to complaints as well as conducting regular proactive inspections in selected areas where there are concentrations of structural problems and/or deferred maintenance. The City's Redevelopment Division funds rehabilitation loans for eligible property owners who need to replace building components, and a handy worker program operated by the Senior Center for property owners who need minor repairs or retrofits to make their homes handicap accessible. State law requires that the Housing Element address the condition of the City's housing stock. To comply with this requirement, staff conducted a windshield survey in 2007 of the areas which have been identified as having older housing stock with potential for property maintenance needs. The survey did not identify each property with maintenance issues, but instead assessed the overall housing conditions in each area surveyed. Table H-3.19 and Exhibit H-3.4 summarizes overall conditions in the survey areas and estimates that between 120 and 208 residential properties in the survey areas, or between 4% and 7% of all properties surveyed are in need of some maintenance or rehabilitation to meet minimum habitability standards of the City. Examples of the property characteristics considered in staff's survey to determine overall housing conditions within these areas included the following: • Neighborhood infrastructure and planning issues: Irregular lot lines and/or substandard lots; inadequacy of the streets, parking and lighting; abandoned, vacant and unhealthy properties; no curbside house numbers; incompatibility of residential uses with adjacent commercial and industrial property. • Health and safety: Overcrowding; unsanitary conditions in garbage or other areas; visible/overfilling garbage cans; mildew; lack of ventilation. H-49 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Landscape: Overgrown or poorly irrigated lawns/landscape, including overgrown trees, leaf buildup, poor landscaping, injured, diseased or dead plants; flammable vegetation in a fire hazard area. Structural conditions: Deferred maintenance; worn, weathered, or split porch beams; faulty siding; damaged/cracked/broken windows; damaged garage door; warped, sagging or missing garage door; damaged or stained walls; damaged roof shingles; missing screens; chipped, peeling, or faded paint; chipped stucco; asphalt or cracked concrete driveways; concrete damage from tree roots; dilapidated fencing; poorly built/faulty balconies; inadequate gutters and storm drains. Table H-3.19: Housing Condition Survey, 2007 Estimated Estimated Homes Survey Area Unit types Rating$ # Needing % Needing Surveyed Rehab Rehab Newhall (Areas 1-5) SFR, MFR B+ 15-25 10-15% 475 Newhall (Areas 6, 9-15) SFR A 0-14 0-9% 380 Newhall (Areas 13, 17-24) SFR, MFR B 25-35 16-20% 420 Newhall (Areas 16, 30-33) SFR, F, MFR, B 25-35 16-20% 30 MH Placerita and Sand Cyn. SFR B+ 15-25 10-15% 160 Saugus (Areas 34-41 and 47- SFR A 0-14 0-9% 511 52) Canyon Country (Areas 57-64) SFR, MFR B+ 15-25 10-15% 515 Canyon Country (Areas 65-69) SFR, MFR B 25-35 16-20% 400 MFR = Multi -Family; SFR = Single -Family; MH = Mobile Home 120-208 2,891 Source: City of Santa Clarita Community Development Department, 2007 8 Blighted Conditions/Deterioration Checklist: Based on the exterior evaluation of residential dwellings in the specified areas, structures are to be rated according to the following grade scale: A — Good = No visible factors of deterioration evident B — Deferred Maintenance (minor repairs) = 1-2 factors of visible deterioration evident C — Substandard Conditions, suitable for rehabilitation = 3-5 factors of visible deterioration evident D — Substandard Condition, not suitable for rehabilitation = 6 or more factors of visible deterioration evident (specified areas will be grouped under grades A-D) DRAFT May, 2011 H-50 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element The following paragraphs summarize the areas surveyed, and the housing conditions that were documented in staff's survey. The survey areas were determined based on overall housing conditions, Community Preservation areas and an age of structures summary. • Newhall Area Areas 1-5 in Newhall are comprised of mostly single-family homes and some multi -family buildings. This area received a "B+", indicating a need for only minor deferred maintenance. In this area, the most common visible factors of deterioration were poorly landscaped front lawns, asphalt driveways in disrepair, faded paint, chipped stucco, and overgrown vegetation. The number of homes with these conditions affected the overall grade of this area. Areas 6 and 9-15 in Newhall are comprised mainly of single-family residences. This area received an "A" for the overall grade for maintenance. There were isolated homes that showed some deterioration; however, overall this is a well -maintained area in which homeowners have preserved the property's original condition. Areas 13 and 17-24 in Newhall have a housing stock made up of a mixture of multi -family and single-family residences. Much of this area contains substandard lots that do not meet current zoning requirements for width, area, or other residential property standards, and most of the homes in this area do not meet the current code requirements. There is a large number of commercial properties in the area with insufficient buffers from adjacent residences. The area received a "B" for its overall housing condition. The most visible factors identified included poorly landscaped and irrigated lawns, poor building structure upkeep including dilapidated roofs, and poorly -constructed structures. Areas 16 and 30-33 comprised a mixture of residential developments including single-family, multi -family, and mobile homes as well as an assortment of commercial and industrial uses. Most of the multi -family residences are in decent condition. The single-family homes appear to be from a newer development and therefore have not seen much decline in housing condition. The mobile home park has some visible impacts that take away from the overall condition of this study area. The overall grade of this area is a "B" with some areas of deferred maintenance. • Placerita Canyon and Sand Canyon Areas 43-46 are locally referred to as Placerita Canyon, and Areas 70-76 are referred to as Sand Canyon. These are historically rural communities that have their own special standards to help preserve their rural characteristics. These communities, mostly single- family residences, received an overall grade of a "B+" due to lack of maintenance of numerous isolated properties. However, most of the properties surveyed in these areas are well maintained and in good condition. • Saugus Areas 34-41 and 47-52 in the community of Saugus contain mostly single-family residences. This area received an "A" for the overall condition of maintenance. There were isolated homes that showed some deterioration; however, overall this is a well -maintained area where homeowners preserve the property's original condition. H-55 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan • Canyon Country Areas 57-64 in Canyon Country have a mixture of multi -family and single-family residences. This area was affected by the most recent wildfire (Buckweed) in October, 2007, which destroyed and damaged approximately two dozen homes. The area received a "B+" for its overall condition. The most visible factors in this area identified as needing improvement included poorly landscaped and irrigated lawns, poor building structure upkeep including dilapidated roofs, and poorly -constructed structures. Areas 65-69 have a mixture of residential developments including single-family, multi -family, and mobile homes, as well as an assortment of commercial and industrial uses. Most of the multi -family residences are in adequate condition. The single-family neighborhoods in this area include newer subdivisions in a good condition of repair, and older development with some maintenance conditions noted. The overall grade of this area was "B", due to some areas of deferred maintenance. • Valencia The Valencia community contains mainly mostly single-family residences. The area received a cursory review of the housing conditions and property upkeep. Overall the area is maintained in good condition. The Valencia area did not receive a grade as it was not part of the Citywide survey. E. Existing Subsidized Housing at Risk of Losing Subsidies Section 65583(a)(8) of California housing element law requires each city and county to identify the assisted housing units in its jurisdiction that are at risk of conversion to market rates within ten years. The element must conduct an analysis that includes an inventory of all such units, an estimate of the cost of preserving the existing units or producing comparable new units, and the availability of nonprofit corporations capable of acquiring and operating these units. Possible financing sources for preservation or replacement must also be identified. Finally, the analysis must state the community's goals, quantified objectives; policies and programs for housing preservation and production (see Section VIII, Policies and Programs.) In compliance with these State requirements, the following analysis covers the 10-year period between 2006 and 2015. DRAFT May, 2011 H-56 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Overview of At -Risk HUD -Assisted Multi -Family Housing Programs • Section 221 and 236 Mortgages In the 1960s and 1970s, the federal government provided a number of different types of subsidies to private developers to build housing with rents affordable to low-income households. Two of these programs, Section 221 (d)(3) Below Market Interest Rates (BMIR) and Section 236, were targeted to households whose incomes were too high for public housing but who could not afford market -rate rents. Reduced interest rates of only 1 % to 3% were granted in exchange for agreements that made rents affordable for at least 20 years. After 20 years, owners could pre -pay their 40-year HUD mortgages and raise their rents to market rates. In the 1970s and later, when it became necessary to more deeply subsidize units and offset operating cost deficits, HUD added a new subsidy program, Section 8 Loan Management Set -aside. Nearly half of the units in the 221(d)(3) BMIR and 236 programs also have the Section 8 Set -aside. • Section 8 Project -Based Units Congress created the Section 8 New Construction and Substantial Rehabilitation Program in 1973. Unlike the Section 8 tenant assistance program that provides vouchers to individual households, these project -based subsidies were attached to the units. However, the subsidies did not run for the life of the project; instead, HUD provided a 15- or 20-year commitment for rental subsidies. Tenants were required to pay 25% (now 30%) of their incomes for rent. HUD sets a "contract rent' for the units and then pays the difference between that rent and the tenant's payment. Families and individuals earning no more than 30%, 50%, or 80% of area median income are eligible for these units. According to the California Housing Partnership Corporation, in 1997 Congress changed the rules governing Section 8 contracts when it adopted the Multi -Family Assisted Housing Reform and Affordability Act (MAHRAA). This legislation provides funding for expiring Section 8 units. Owners are not obligated to renew expiring Section 8 contracts or to maintain the affordability of their units. Instead, if they choose, they can decline to renew the Section 8 contracts and raise their rents to market rates. Owners of many buildings subsidized by Section 221 (d)(3) and 236 are now eligible to pre- pay their mortgages. In order to do so, the owner must file a notice of intent and provide a year's notice to HUD and to tenants. In properties that also have Section 8 Loan Management Set -aside contracts, the owner's decision to pre -pay the underlying loan and opt out of the Section 8 contract will probably be influenced by whether the Section 8 rents are higher or lower than the market rents in the surrounding area. In areas where market rates are higher, the owner may want to pay off his HUD obligation so that he/she can charge market rates as soon as the Section 8 contract expires. If the owner decides to sell, California Government Code Section 65863.11 requires owners of HUD -subsidized buildings who put these buildings on the market to give nonprofit organizations the first right of refusal. Pursuant to California Government Code Section 65863.10, owners must also file a notice of intent with the State when they decide to prepay a federally —assisted mortgage, terminate mortgage insurance, or opt out of rent subsidy contracts. These notices must be filed twice, at one year and at six months before the date of prepayment or termination. The notice must also be sent to all affected tenants. The California Department of Housing and H-57 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Community Development (HCD) provide the notification forms and a list of owner prepayment notifications on its website at http://www.hcd.ca.gov/hpd/hrc/tech/presrv/. However, neither HCD nor HUD monitors the notices, including the tenant notices. Multi -Family Bond -Financed Proiects There are 8 properties in Santa Clarita financed by Multi -Family Revenue Bonds, with affordable housing regulatory agreements that are monitored by the Los Angeles County Community Development Commission. These properties have 256 units with rents affordable to households at 80% or less of County median income, and 174 with rents affordable to households earning 50% or less of County median income. Managers of these units are required to recertify tenant households every two years to demonstrate that the "affordable" units are occupied by income -eligible households. The regulatory agreements for these projects are all recorded and run with the land. Thus, if the project is sold, the new owner must honor the regulatory agreement until it expires. As shown in Table H-3.20, most of the regulatory agreements have the same expiration date as the bonds themselves. But in one case the regulatory agreement will continue for 20 years after the bond due date. In the last 10 years one project with 130 total units and 26 units at 80% of median noticed its tenants in 2006 when the bond and regulatory agreements both expired, and by the end of 2007 this project raised its rent. Tenants unable to pay the new rents had to move. Unlike tenants of HUD -financed projects who receive Section 8 vouchers when owners pre -pay their mortgages and raise rent to market rates, tenants in expired bond financed projects do not receive any program -related assistance when subsidies expire and owners raise the rents. However, the owner still has to file the state notices and all the relevant paperwork. Neither HCD nor the bond -issuing agencies monitor the notices to tenants if a bond project pays off the bonds. A number of localities have passed ordinances requiring the notices to also be sent to the City. Cities can set up programs that monitor the notices and follow up to make sure that owners follow all required notice procedures. All the required forms and the State notice list are posted online at the website of the California Department of Housing and Community Development is http://www.hcd.ca.gov/hpd/hrc/tech/presrv/. Given that in the planning period 268 units are at risk of losing their subsidies and converting to market rates, the City should consider programs to monitor the provision of notices required by State law (Goal H.4). State and County Subsidized Proiects At Risk of Conversion to Market Rates Between 2006 and 2015 One residential project offering subsidized rents to low-income households will be at risk of losing these subsidized units during the planning period. This project has 176 total units, of which, 36 are available to families earning at or below 50% of area median income. Without active intervention by the City to retain these assisted units, it is very likely that the units will lose their affordability protections and that the low-income tenants will have to move. DRAFT May, 2011 H-58 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element The regulatory agreement for Meadowridge, a 176-unit rental housing project, will expire in 2014. The bond is not due until 2018. Since some owners in Santa Clarita have refinanced and extended their regulatory agreements in order to renovate their buildings, it is possible that the owner of this project may do likewise. If the owner does not refinance, then the renters who live in Meadowridge's 36 very -low income units may be unlikely to find affordable units nearby. Furthermore, if these low-income residents are forced to move due to rising rents, they will not be eligible for any relocation assistance. Another 14 subsidized units are at risk in Hidaway Apartments, which was financed by a loan from the Los Angeles County Community Development Commission and guaranteed by FHA insurance that expires in 2024. Hidaway Apartments has 67 two- and three -bedroom apartments. The City is working with a nonprofit housing developer, Mercy Housing, on a preservation/replacement project that would result in preserving the Hidaway's 14 affordable units and making an additional 53 affordable. As currently proposed, the Mercy Housing acquisition and rehabilitation of Hidaway Apartments would provide 30 units affordable at 50% of median and 36 units affordable at 60% of median. The at -risk units in Meadowridge could also be protected through purchase by a nonprofit owner using a combination of bond funds and the 4% tax credit, or replaced through bond and tax - credit -financed new construction of either mixed -income projects or projects that are 100% affordable. Table H-3.20 summarizes the status of projects in the City that are at -risk of losing subsidized housing units during the planning period. Exhibit H-3.5 provides the locations of the subsidized affordable housing units Table H-3.20: Risk Status of State -Subsidized Housing Projects Funding Total 80% 50% Regulatory Bonds Risk over 10 Project Name and Address Source Units Agreement or Loan Years Ex iration Due Village Apartments Multi -family 23700 Newhall Avenue Revenue 384 38 39 12/2031 10/2014 Low Santa Clarita, CA Bond Geoff Palmer & Associates L.A. County Canyon Country Villas Multi -family 26741 Isabella Parkway Revenue 328 66 0 12/2032 12/2032 Low Santa Clarita, CA Geoff Palmer & Associates Bond Diamond Park Multi -family 27940 Solamint Road Revenue 256 26 26 10/2031 2/2009 Low Santa Clarita, CA Geoff Palmer & Associates Bond Meadowridge Multi -family 23645 Meadowridge Drive Revenue 176 0 36 10/2014 9/2018 High Santa Clarita, CA JH Real Estate Partners Bond Sand Canyon Villas Multi -family 28923 Prairie Lane Revenue 215 22 22 12/2032 12/2032 Low Santa Clarita, CA Geoff Palmer & Associates Bond H-59 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Funding Total 80% 50% Regulatory Bonds Risk over 10 Project Name and Address Source Units Agreement or Loan Years Expiration Due Canyon Terrace Rents 22640 Garzota Drive Multi -family converted to Santa Clarita, CA Revenue 130 26 0 9/2006 9/2006 market rate L.A. Canyon Terrace LP Bond in 2006 AIMCO Sand Canyon Ranch Multi -family 28856 N. Silver Saddle Cir. Santa Clarita, CA Revenue 255 51 0 5/2033 5/2033 Low Geoff Palmer & Associates Bond Hidaway Apartments L.A. County/ 27077 Hidaway Avenue FHA Loan 67 14 0 N/A 2024 Low Santa Clarita, CA Total 1,811 243 123 *Indicates number of units affordable to households earning no more than 80% or 50% of Area Median Income. Source: Los Angeles County Community Development Corporation and Karin Pally Associates DRAFT May, 2011 H-60 7 0 cu ry ry 0 z 51 0 z 51 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Federallv Subsidized Proiects At Risk of Conversion to Market Rates There are only two projects with federal subsidies in Santa Clarita. Both are senior housing projects. The first project, Valencia Villas, has 76 units affordable to households at or below 50% of median income. It is a Section 221 (d)(3) project with a Project -Based Section 8 contract that expires in 2011. Once the current Section 8 contract expires, it can be renewed annually. The expiration date for the 221 (d)(3) is 2019 but it is subject to prepayment. When asked about their plans for this project, the owners said they intend to maintain the project as affordable until the end of the Section 8 contract and will then consider their options. This project is at high risk for conversion to market -rate rents. Santa Clarita has already lost some of its affordable senior housing during this planning period. Newhall Terrace, which provided 66 units of affordable senior housing, opted out of its Section 8 contract in 2007 and converted to market rates. A few Section 8 tenants still reside in this project, but the units will not remain affordable once these tenants leave. Summary of At -Risk Units In conclusion, there are 112 affordable units at high risk of conversion to market -rate housing during the planning period, including 36 family units and 76 senior units. All the senior units and family units have rents set at 50% of median income. Table H-3.21 and Exhibit H-3.6 summarizes the senior housing projects in the City and their risk status. DRAFT May, 2011 H-62 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-3.21: Risk Status of Affordable Senior Housing Projects Income Target Total Funding Expiration Risk Over 10 Project Name Units Source Dates Address Years 80% 60% 50% Owner Contact Info Valencia Villas 221 (D)(3) 4/2019 High 24857 Singing Hills Drive 76 76 Santa Clarita, CA 91355 Section 8 2011 661-259-3921 project -based Goldrich and Kest 310-204-2050 Canterbury Village HUD 202 Low 23520 Wiley Canyon Road 64 64 Santa Clarita, CA 91355 661-255-9797 So CA Presbyterian Homes 818-247-0420 Bouquet Canyon Seniors Tax Credits Low 26705 Bouquet Canyon 264 264 Bond Santa Clarita, CA 91350 661-297-346 Riverstone/HSC 626-910-0800 Canyon Country Seniors Tax Credits Low 18701 Flying Tiger Drive 180 20 200 Bond Santa Clarita, CA 91351 661-251-2900 Riverstone/HSC 626-810-0800 Orchard Arms Conventional N/A N/A 23520 Wiley Canyon Road 182 182 Public Santa Clarita, CA 91321 Housing 661-255-5818 operated by Housing Authority of L.A. L.A. County County Housing Authority Whispering Oak Apartments Los Angeles N/A N/A for age 55+ 20 13 65 County loan 22816 Market Street Santa Clarita, CA 91321 661-259-1583 SHB Financial Corporation Total Units 20 444 355 851 Source: City of Santa Clarita and Karin Pally Associates H-63 DRAFT May, 2011 Apr" ry ja 0 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Preservation or Realacement of At -Risk Units In order to ensure that existing subsidized housing units in the City remain affordable, financing sources must to be identified. The most practical finance source for replacement of the at -risk units at 50% of median income would be a HUD 202 grant, with additional financing from the City to cover the "gap" between the amount of HUD 202 funding and the full cost of property acquisition and construction. However, it would also be possible to use federal low-income housing tax credits (4% or 9% tax credits), combined with City gap financing, a conventional mortgage, and an Affordable Housing Program grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank. Estimated replacement costs for the at -risk units are shown in Table H-3.22. These cost estimates range from $254,822 per unit for financing with low income housing tax credits at 9%, and $277,487 per unit for low-income housing tax credits at 4%.9 The cost to replace the 268 at -risk bond -financed units in the City would be between $68.29 million and $74.36 million. The unit mix for the financing scenario would be 64% one -bedroom and 34% two -bedroom. The income range would be 26% of units rented at 60% of median income, 46% of units priced at 45% of median, 5% of units priced at 40% of median and 11 % at 30% of median. Two percent of the units would be rent-free manager units. Available Funding Sources Funding sources for replacing the at -risk units at risk in Santa Clarita include low-income housing tax credits, the Santa Clarita Redevelopment Agency's Housing Set -Aside Fund, grants from the State's Proposition C-funded Multi -family Housing Program (MHP); and conventional low -interest mortgages from banks that makes community reinvestment loans. Tax credit and State MHP applications are competitive, but developers in Santa Clarita have successfully applied for tax credits in the past few years. According to the Five Year Implementation Plan for Santa Clarita's Redevelopment Agency, the agency is obligated to spend $3.2 million on low - and moderate -income housing by 2012. The agency estimates that it will have $3.2 million available in its Housing Set -Aside fund between 2007 and 2012. The City has a budget of about $1.1 million per year from Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds; however, all these funds are allocated for debt service, eligible housing and social service activities, and administrative overhead. The City does not receive an allocation of HOME funds. However, it has in the past successfully applied to the State for HOME funds, which were used for a City first-time homebuyer program. In the future, an application could be submitted for a project to replace or purchase at -risk units, if other funds were not sufficient. A review of such awards over the past few years indicates that the amount of the HOME award would likely be less than $1 million. 9 The low-income housing tax credit gives investors who invest in affordable housing an annual tax credit. The 4% percent and 9% figures refer to the approximate percentage of the eligible project costs that investors may claim on federal tax returns for a 10-year period. Developers submit competitive applications to the State's Tax Credit Allocation Committee (TCAC), which awards the credits to the applications with the most points. Then the developer works with an individual investor or a pool of investments that provide equity to the project. H-65 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Table H-3.22: Replacement Cost Estimates for 112 At -Risk Units Cost Per Unit Replacement Cost Funding Sources 9% Tax Credit Sources: $254,822 $28,540,064 23% First Mortgage 17% Local Equity (Redevelopment) 59% LP Capital Contribution 4% Tax Credit + Bond Finance Sources 23% First Mortgage $277,487 $31,078,544 17% Local Equity (Redevelopment) 25 /o State Multi -Family Housing Program 35% LP Capital Contribution Source: Yasmin Tong and Karin Pally Associates Cost of Purchase for At -Risk Units If the owners of the 268 at -risk units were willing to sell these units, they might be priced between $130,000 and $160,000 per unit, depending on condition and location. It is assumed that the units would need rehabilitation. A common cost estimate for rehabilitation is $25,000 per unit. Adding $25,000 puts the cost per unit between $155,000 and $175,000, as shown in Table H-3.22. However, the scenario in Table H-3.23 would be applicable only to the 76 senior units in Valencia Villas, since that project has a Section 8 contract which a new, nonprofit owner/manager could assume. If the owner opted out of the Section 8 program and paid off the loan guaranteed by the 221 (d)(3) loan guarantee, converting the rents to market rates, all the existing low-income tenants would receive tenant -based Section 8 vouchers. Rents in the building would no longer be affordable and it is possible that if the new rents exceeded the limits allowed by the Los Angeles County Housing Authority, all the previous tenants would have to find new apartments somewhere else. DRAFT May, 2011 H-66 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-3.23: Estimated Costs for 76 At -Risk Units with Section 8 Contracts Cost Estimate Purchase Price Rehab Cost Total Per Unit Total Cost Estimate Sources 75% Convention Mortgage 25% Equity Low $130,000 $25,000 $155,000 $11,780,000 (Redevelopment) Section 8 Project -Based contract 75% Convention Mortgage 25% Equity High $160,000 $25,000 $185,000 $14,060,000 (Redevelopment) Section 8 Project -Based contract Source: Karin Pally Associates Tenants in the two bond -financed projects would not receive any assistance in relocating if the owners decide to convert to market rents. The scenario in Table H-3.23 would not apply to those units because there is not a Section 8 project -based contract to subsidize the rents. Purchase of the bond -financed units would have to be financed with tax credits plus a combination of local funds, grants if necessary, and a conventional mortgage. Table H-3.24 provides scenarios for purchase and rehabilitation of 36 bond -financed units using the low- income housing tax credit. The assumed market price for the units is $130,000 per unit. Table H-3.24: Estimated Costs for 36 At -Risk Units Using Tax Credits Estimated Unit Cost Replacement Cost Sources 9% Tax Credit Sources: 35% First Mortgage 171,890 $6,188,040 52% Local Equity (Redevelopment) 13% LP Capital Contribution 4% Tax Credit + Bond Finance Sources 172,169 $6,198,084 37% First Mortgage45% Local Equity (Redevelopment) 18% LP Capital Contribution Source: Yasmin Tong and Karin Pally Associates H-67 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan As shown in Table H-3.24, the estimated cost to purchase and rehabilitate the 36 bond -financed units would be $6,188,040 if financed with 9% tax credits, and $6,198,084 if financed with 4% tax credits. Because the subsidized units are included with market -rate units within the entire housing project, the actual purchase and rehabilitation cost would also include the market rate units in these buildings, which would have to be financed with a conventional mortgage. Organizational Resources for Preservation or Replacement • Public Agencies and Nonprofit Corporations Federal and state law require that when owners of buildings with expiring federal subsidies decide to sell those buildings, they must offer the right of first refusal to nonprofit corporations capable of operating multi -family housing. There are no nonprofit housing development corporations located in Santa Clarita. However, the City is working with a number of nonprofit organizations interested in developing affordable housing in Santa Clarita. Southern California Presbyterian Homes already owns and operates one project (Canterbury Village), and Mercy Housing is working on a proposal to acquire and rehabilitate a 67-unit building. Table H-3.25 lists nonprofit entities in Southern California that may be interested in either purchase and rehabilitation, or replacement of, at -risk subsidized units. Table H-3.25: Nonprofit Housing Development Corporations Organization Contact Name Address Phone Cabrillo Economic Rodney Fernandez 702 County Square Drive Development Ventura, CA 93003 805-659-3195 Corporation Mercy Housing, Inc. Mark Trinidad 1500 South Grand Ave, #100 213-743-5820 Los Angeles, CA 90015 9065 Haven Ave., Suite 1000 National Community Renaissance Rebecca Clark, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 909-483-2444 Executive Director 91730 Presbyterian Homes Kim Heinzelman 516 Burchett Street 818-247-0420 Project Devt. Asst. Glendale, CA 91203 Telacu Homes, Inc. 5400 East Olympic Blvd., Tom Provencio #300 323-832-5411 Los Angeles, CA 90022 21031 Ventura Blvd., Suite Habitat for Humanity Donna Deutchman 1101 818-981-4900 Woodland Hills, CA • Other Organizational Resources The two nonprofit organizations listed below provide information and technical assistance for preservation of at -risk housing to tenants, property owners, City staff, and other groups. Both these organizations have offices in the City of Los Angeles. DRAFT May, 2011 H-68 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element The California Housing Partnership Corporation (CHPC) is chartered by the State legislature to provide education and technical assistance concerning expiring uses to cities, nonprofit housing organizations, and tenants. CHPC has offices in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Staff at the Los Angeles office can be contacted at: California Housing Partnership Corporation 800 Figueroa Street Los Angeles, CA 90017 (213) 892-8776 The Coalition for Economic Survival, located in the City of Los Angeles, provides information and assistance on expiring use issues to tenants, nonprofit housing organizations and to City staff. Larry Gross, Executive Director Coalition for Economic Survival 514 Shatto Place, Suite 270 Los Angeles, California 90020 Telephone: (213) 252-4411 www.cesinaction.org F. Energy and Water Conservation for Housing The State of California has taken a strong stand on encouraging conservation of energy and water resources at the local level through adoption of conservation policies and programs. As further explained in the Conservation and Open Space Element of the General Plan, legislation was passed in 2006 setting limits on greenhouse gas emissions in order to address concerns about climate change. The State has also directed local agencies to adopt guidelines for water conservation in landscaping, and the California Building Code establishes building standards for low -flow plumbing fixtures and energy conservation in new construction. With respect to resource conservation in housing development, the public benefits of saving water and energy, in terms of carbon reduction and maintaining water supplies, are supplemented by the benefits to individuals of saving money on utilities. Energy -conserving appliances, efficient heating and cooling systems, adequate insulation, and low -flow plumbing fixtures will yield significant long-term savings to both renters and homeowners, particularly with the higher cost of fuel experienced in 2008. In response to State mandates and local concerns for resource conservation, the City has taken a number of steps to ensure that energy and water conservation are considered in approvals of new residential development. In the General Plan, the City has adopted wide-ranging policies to encourage environmentally responsible development (Conservation and Open Space Element). The City has adopted California Title 24 regulations for all new residential construction. Landscape plans are required to limit turf grass and use drought -resistant planting techniques. Energy -conserving appliances and lighting are required. The City encourages use of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) building techniques, and has received LEED certification on a public building. H-69 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Programs for Existing Development The City of Santa Clarita currently offers the following programs for enhancing the energy efficiency of existing residential structures: AB 811- In Partnership with the County of Los Angeles, the City of Santa Clarita is participating in the development of a program to use Assembly Bill 811 funds for a program that would provide energy audits, energy efficiency upgrades as well as installation of photovoltaic solar power systems on residential units for little or no out-of-pocket cost to the property owner. The City also maintains a directory of local solar installers and retailers providing residents quick and convenient access to qualified vendors in the Santa Clarita Valley. Community Energy Partnership/Energy Audits: The Community Energy Partnership is an organization that brings resources and staff from the City, Southern California Edison, and the Energy Coalition to provide a variety of services throughout the community including free energy audits and retrofits. Federal Weatherization Program: The City offers public outreach and information on the Federal Weatherization Program which offers as much as $6,500 for income -qualified residents to receive energy efficiency upgrades to their home. ENERGY STAR® Products and Incentives: The City offers public outreach and information on ENERGY STAR® products including a search tool that enables the user to locate local retailers of ENERGY STAR® products as well as a list of incentives and rebates offered for the purchase of specific energy efficient appliances and products. Programs for New Development: The City of Santa Clarita currently offers the following programs for new development. In addition to offering in-house programs, the City actively encourages the development community to take advantage of programs offered by Southern California Edison and the Southern California Gas Company. Community Character and Design Guidelines: The Community Character and Design Guidelines is a document adopted by the City Council in March 24, 2009. The purpose of the document is to define a variety of "green" development policies that should be included in all new projects that require constructions. A portion of the guidelines define design elements for energy efficiency in residential, commercial, mixed use, industrial and business park. Requirements for single-family and multi -family developments can be found on the City's website at: http://www. santa-clarita. com/cityhal I/cd/plan ni ng/archdesig n. asp California New Homes Project (CNHP): The City of Santa Clarita partners with Southern California Edison in implementing the California New Homes Project. Through a combination of education, design assistance and financial support, the CAHP works with building and related industries to exceed compliance with the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 6, 2008 Building DRAFT May, 2011 H-70 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings (Standards), to prepare builders for changes to the standards and create future pathways beyond compliance and traditional energy savings objectives. Participation is open to single- family, low and high rise multi -family residential new construction built within Southern California Edison's service territory. Information on the program can be found at: http://www.sce.com/b-rs/bb/cali-new-homes/california-new-homes-program. htm Sustainable Communities Program (SCP): The City of Santa Clarita partners with Southern California Edison in implementing the Sustainable Communities Program. The SCP targets projects able to commit to energy efficiency goals at least 15% greater than Title 24 Energy Standards for single and multi- family residential projects. Certification to a recognized green building rating system (i.e. LEED-NC® Silver) is strongly encouraged. Information on the program can be found at: http://www.sce-scp.com/PromectCenter/Default.aspx?tabid=1721 • Advanced Home Program (AHP): The City of Santa Clarita partners with the Southern California Gas Company in implementing the AHP. The Performance -Based approach provides incentives for building homes that exceed the California Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24) by at least 15 percent. These homes can also qualify for the ENERGY STAR® for homes label, which is widely recognized for energy efficiency. Information on the program can be found at: http://www.socalgas.com/construction/ahp/ Community -Based Energy Conservation Programs On its website, the Southern California Gas Company, which provides services to Santa Clarita residential and commercial customers, offers a number of programs aimed at increasing energy efficiency. These include an energy and efficiency online survey and residential rebates for upgrading to energy efficient appliances or making energy efficient home improvements. Rebates are also available to owners of multi -family properties if they install certain energy efficient systems. Incentives for building new homes that exceed California Title 24 by 15% are offered to residential and commercial builders. The power company, Southern California Edison (SCE), offers a wide variety of energy conservation programs. These programs include free home energy audits online and rebates on energy efficient appliances. SCE also has several programs to reduce rates for low-income households. SCE's website is www.sce.com. ASSERT a Lancaster -based nonprofit organization, works with both Southern California Edison (SCE) and the Southern California Gas Company to provide weatherization programs to eligible low-income households in the City of Santa Clarita. Depending on income, a household may be able to obtain a new, energy efficient refrigerator through a program operated by SCE. Publications on sustainable building practices for residential and commercial properties can be found on the website of Global Green at www.globalgreen.org. Global Green is a national nonprofit organization that works to educate the public about renewal energy sources and sustainable development practices. H-71 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Residences in the City of Santa Clarita are served by one water wholesaler, Castaic Lake Water Agency (CLWA), and three water purveyors including the Newhall County Water District (a division of CLWA), Santa Clarita Water Company and Valencia Water Company. All four have conservation information on their websites and urge customers to conserve water. Newhall County Water District offers a cash rebate for the installation of water efficient sprinklers. IV. SPECIAL HOUSING NEEDS Government Code Section 65583(1)(7) requires "An analysis of any special housing needs, such as those of the elderly, persons with disabilities, large families, farm workers, families with female heads of households and families and persons in need of emergency shelter." This section of the element identifies special housing needs within the City of Santa Clarita. A. Housing for the Elderly Housing element law does not define "elderly." Depending on the program or source, there are a number of different age cutoffs for "elderly" and "senior." According to the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website, housing limited to older persons is exempt from the age discrimination provisions of the Fair Housing Act if: HUD has determined that the dwelling is specifically designed for and occupied by elderly persons under a federal, state or local government program; or It is occupied solely by persons who are age 62 or older; or It houses at least one person who is 55 or older in at least 80% of the occupied units, and adheres to a policy that demonstrates intent to house persons who are 55 or older.10 The HUD 202 program is the only federal housing finance program designed specifically for older persons. It limits eligibility to persons who are age 62 or older. California Health and Safety Code Section 33334.4 instructs redevelopment agencies that the Low and Moderate Income Housing Fund must be expended "to assist housing available to all age groups in at least the same proportion as the number of low-income households with a member under age 65 years to the total number of low-income households of the community as reported in the most recent census." This regulation applies to Santa Clarita because most of the funds available for low-income housing in the City are generated by redevelopment, and are thus subject to the restriction that redevelopment funds spent for housing should be proportional to the age breakdown of the general population. The issue of what age groups to include in the term "elderly" is important because the Housing Element asks jurisdictions to determine the needs of this age group for housing and asks whether the supply of housing is adequate to the need. In this document, the group "elderly" includes persons age 65 and older. 10 http://www.hud.gov/offices/fheo/seniors/index.cfm DRAFT May, 2011 H-72 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element There were 12,361 persons aged 65 or older in 2006. Of these, 2,356 or 18.7% were 85 or older. As age increases after age 65, the proportion of men to women in the population drops. Overall, 46.4% of the age 65 and older population are male and 54.6% are female; however, at age 85 and older, 86.7% of the elderly population is female. Between 2000 and 2006, the number of persons aged 65 and older increased by 2,176 persons. This represents a 20.2% increase in the proportion of the population that is age 65 and older. Countywide, during the same period, the population in this age group grew by 18.3%. There were 537 persons in the City age 65 or older living below the poverty level in 2006, and there were 6,906 households in which the household head was 65 or older. The distribution of income in these households is show in Table H-4.1. Tenure Of the persons 65 or older who identified themselves as heads of household, 5052, (73%) were homeowners and 1,853 were renters. While 54% of the renters had housing costs of 35% or more of their monthly income, only 26% of the owners had housing costs that high. Income Table H-4.1: Household Income of City Residents Persons Aged 65 and Older Income Number Percent < $14, 999 881 12.8 $15,000 to 24,999 1,265 18.3 $25, 000 to 39,999 1,598 23.1 $40, 000 to 49,999 489 7.1 $50, 000 to 74,999 929 13.5 $75, 000 to 99,999 988 14.3 $100,000 to 149,999 583 8.4 $150,000 to 199,999 50 0.7 $200,000 or more 123 1.8 Total 6,909 100 Source: 2006 American Community Survey Using the income limits for 2006 shown above in Table H-4.1, 31.1% of all senior households meet the criteria for very low or extremely low income and about 30.2% meet the criteria for low income (51 % to 80% of median income). Altogether, in 2006, 38.2% of one -person senior households had incomes at or below 80% of median income. The income limits for two -person households are higher so even more households would meet the criteria. Some lower -income seniors who qualify for a subsidized rental unit in Santa Clarita are having increasing difficulty paying the rent. There are several reasons for this: (1) costs for food, gas and medical care have increased sharply, and pensions and social security have not kept pace; (2) some affordable senior units, which are financed by tax credits are set at 60% rather than 50% of median income, making the rent on those units more expensive; (3) even subsidized rents are subject to annual increases, usually keyed to a standard index such as CPI. H-73 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Table H-4.2 provides data from the 2000 Census on the cost burdens of lower income elderly households in Santa Clarita. Household Size In 2006, 9716 (77%) of the 12,631 persons age 65 or older lived in family households. Of these, more than half (4,363 persons), identified themselves as the head of household. Of the 2,668 persons living in non -family households, 1,853 (70%) were women living alone and 690 (26%) were men living alone. There were 104 men who were not living alone. Group Quarters In 2006 there were 247 persons age 65 or older living in group quarters such as nursing homes. Housinq Costs According to the Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center, more than 700 persons age 55 and older requested help with housing in 2007. Assistance provided can include help finding a low-cost unit, and help applying for a Section 8 voucher. However, according to the Los Angeles County Housing Authority, the waiting list for a Section 8 voucher is extensive and the wait time could be as much as two years. Senior renters and home owners are considered to be "housing cost burdened" if they pay more than 30% of their household income for housing. Housing costs over 50% of the household income represent a severe housing cost burden. Table H-4.2: Housina Cost Burden for Elderly Households in Santa Clarita in 2000 Housing Cost Burden Elderly Elderly All Santa Clarita Renters Owners Households Household Income 554 314 2,602 <=30% MFI Cost Burden > 30% 68.6% 76.1 % 73.8% Cost Burden > 50% 57.8% 65.8% 65.8% Household Income 541 524 2,554 >30% <=50% MFI Cost Burden > 30% 76.3% 68.5% 85.7% Cost Burden > 50% 58.8% 38.9% 63.7% Household Income 439 1,014 4,414 >=50% <=80% MFI Cost Burden > 30% 65.8% 47.7% 69.3% Cost Burden > 50% 8.0% 26.1 % 32.4% Source: HUD User CHAS Databook from Census 2000 data DRAFT May, 2011 H-74 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Resources There are 841 rental units in six rental properties in Santa Clarita restricted for those 55 and older (or, in the case of Canterbury Village, funded by a HUD 202, age 62 and older), with renter qualifications not to exceed 60% or 50% of median income. In all, there are 397 units with rents set at a level affordable to households at 50% of median income, of which 12 units are market - rate units whose tenants have Section 8 vouchers; 444 units with rents set at 60% of median income, three units with rents at 80% of median income. Table H-4.3: Senior Rental Housing in Santa Clarita Name of Project Address and Phone Units at Units at Total Finance Source /o 60 <50 /o Units 24857 Singing Hills Drive 221 (D) (4) Valencia Villas Santa Clarita, CA 91355 76 76 Project -Based (661- 259-3921 Section 8 S. Cal. Presbyterian Homes Canterbury 23520 Wiley Canyon 64 64 HUD 202 Village Road Santa Clarita, CA 91355 661-255-9797 26705 Bouquet Canyon Bouquet Road 264 264 Tax Credits Canyon Seniors Santa Clarita, CA 91350 661-297-346 Riverstone Residential Canyon Country 18701 Flying Tiger Drive 180 20 200 Tax Credits Seniors Santa Clarita, CA 91351 661-251-2900 Housing Authority of L.A. Orchard Arms County 23520 Wiley Canyon 182 182 Road Santa Clarita, CA 91355 Whispering Oak 22816 Market Street Market & Apartments for Santa Clarita, CA 91321 13 65 tenant -based age 55 + 661-259-1583 Section 8 Total Units 444 1 397 841 Source: City of Santa Clarita and Karin Pally Associates A search of the online database on the Community Care Licensing webpage of the California Department of Social Services found 67 six -person facilities licensed for residential care for the elderly, one 99-person facility and two licensed for 15-16 persons. H-75 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Another option for increasing the number of affordable senior housing units, while meeting residents' need for community and companionship, is shared housing. One such program that has been very successful is Alternative Living for the Aging, a Los Angeles -based nonprofit organization that both matches seniors seeking to share their homes with others looking for housing, and owns and operates shared housing facilities. B. Housing for Disabled Persons Needs The 2006 ACS estimates that there are 14,671 persons in Santa Clarita with disabilities. Table H-4.4 shows the data for 2006 on persons with six different types of disabilities. It should be noted that many people may have more than one disability. For example, a person with a mental or physical disability may also have a self -care or employment disability. The largest category is that of persons with physical disabilities. Table H-4.4: Persons with Disabilities" Type of Disability Total Self- Care Mental Sensory Physical Employment Independent Travel Age 5 to 15 years 1,366 214 963 403 237 16 to 20 years 625 127 528 166 97 266 179 21 to 64 years 7,234 1,622 3,024 1,877 4,059 3,671 1,560 65 to 74 years 2,461 324 718 1,072 1,599 588 75+ years 2,985 1,152 1,303 11884 21384 1,545 Total Disabled 1 14,671 3,439 6,536 5,402 8,386 3,937 3,872 Source: 2006 American Community Survey " The 2005 ACS definition of disability is based on three questions: (1) Does this person have any of the following long lasting -conditions: blindness, deafness, or a severe vision or hearing impairment? And (b) a condition that substantially limits one or more basic physical activities such as walking, climbing stairs, reaching, lifting, or carrying? (2) Because of a physical, mental, or emotional condition lasting 6 months or more, does this person have difficulty in doing any of the following activities: (a) learning, remembering, or concentrating? And (b) dressing, bathing, or getting around inside the home? (3) Because of a physical mental, or emotional condition lasting 6 months or more, does this person have any difficult in doing any of the following activities: (a) going outside the home alone to shop or visit a doctor's office? (b) working at a job or business? DRAFT May, 2011 H-76 Citv of Santa Clarita General Plan Housina Element Phvsical Disabilities Persons with physical disabilities can be affected by a variety of housing issues, among which affordability and accessibility are some of the most frequent. They often need housing that is specially adapted to their needs with ramps, doors and turnarounds wide enough for wheelchairs, and with other adaptations for access. Income may also be an issue for persons with disabilities who are of working age. Persons whose only income is Supplemental Security Income may not be able to live independently as, according to staff at the Center for Independent Living, there are a limited number of rental units in the City affordable to individuals living on Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is about $870 per month in 2008. The City is required to develop and make available a procedure whereby property owners can request a reasonable accommodation to make changes in their property in order to make the property accessible for a disabled person. The California Department of Housing and Community Development provide a model procedure, in its online document Building Blocks for Effective Housing Elements at http://www.hcd.ca.gov/hpd/housing element/index.html. The section on reasonable accommodation procedures can be found under Programs in a file entitled "Address and Remove or Mitigate Constraints." Persons with Developmental Disabilities The North Los Angeles County Regional Center (NLACRC) provides housing for its developmentally disabled child and adult clients (called consumers) through contracts with residential facilities licensed by Community Care Licensing. NLACRC serves 1,591 consumers in Santa Clarita, including 541 adults and 1,050 children. There are nine adult residential facilities that contract with NLACRC in Santa Clarita and one children's facility. Most of NLACRC's child clients live at home with their families. NLACRC does have consumers who live independently in their own apartments or in other types of rentals. Most of these have Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits and may also have some work earnings. They receive services from NLACRC services to assist them to live on their own. The SSI benefit for consumers in independent living in 2008 is $859 per month. Mental Illness According to the Santa Clarita office of the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (DMH), the Santa Clarita DMH office serves 705 mentally ill clients, of whom 10 are homeless. Housing is an issue for clients on Supplemental Security Income because they receive only $870 per month. Clients who have Social Security Disability (SDI) receive varying amounts based on what they paid into the system, and are eligible for a supplement if their SDI is less than $870 per month. Although some DMH clients are living in single-family homes, many clients live with family, share a rented apartment, or rent a room. Like very low income seniors and disabled persons, mentally ill clients of DMH would benefit from an increase in HUD Section202 and Section 811-financed housing and an increase in the number of Section 8 vouchers available. H-77 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Resources Licensed facilities serving consumers of the NLACRC are described in the section on persons with developmental disabilities. For persons who are unable to live independently, there are five six -person facilities licensed for adult residential care listed on the Community Care Licensing web page of the California Department of Social Services. However, according to the Santa Clarita DMH office, there are no board and care facilities for the mentally ill in the Santa Clarita Valley. Although there are currently no supportive housing programs in Santa Clarita, nor are any being planned, there are several agencies, including A Community of Friends and Homes for Life Foundation that develop supportive housing countywide for persons with chronic mental illness; these agencies may be able to assist in developing a supportive housing project in Santa Clarita. Supportive Housin While the type of services they need may be different, persons with disabilities have some common characteristics: (1) their incomes may be low if the disability interferes with their ability to work or to work full-time, which in turn restricts their access to housing; and (2) they may need supportive services ranging from attendant care to case management, in order to live independently. Such services are expensive and, for those with lower incomes, the inclusion of such services in multi -family rental housing can be very cost-effective. Government Code Section 50675.14 defines supportive housing as housing that has no limit on the length of stay, is linked to onsite or offsite services, and is occupied by a target population as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 53260. Senate Bill 2 requires zoning to treat supportive housing as a proposed residential use, subject only to those restrictions that apply to other residential uses of the same type in the same zone. The City has amended the UDC to allow supportive housing in all residential zones. The amendments were adopted by the City Council in 2009 (Program H5.3). Supportive housing programs are not subject to licensing requirements. C. Housing for Large Households Needs Low-income, large families often live in units that are too small to provide adequate room and privacy for all family members, in order to be able to afford the rent. According to the 2000 Census, Santa Clarita had 7,476 households, including 1,962 renter households, with five or more household members. Unlike the City of Los Angeles where most rental units have two or fewer bedrooms, Santa Clarita has an ample supply of larger rental units. In 2000 there were 3,111 rental units with three or more bedrooms. The U.S. Census considers a housing unit overcrowded if there are between 1.01 and 1.5 persons per room. A unit is considered severely overcrowded if there are more than 1.51 persons per room. Kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms all count as rooms, but bathrooms do not. A two -bedroom apartment occupied by six persons would be considered overcrowded. If occupied by seven people it would be severely overcrowded. As might be expected based on the recent development of much of its housing stock, overcrowding is less common in Santa Clarita than in the County as a whole. In Santa Clarita in 2000, 6.9% of rental units were DRAFT May, 2011 H-78 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element overcrowded and 9.2% were severely overcrowded, while in the County as a whole, 9.5% of rental units were overcrowded and 22% were severely overcrowded. Even though the City of Santa Clarita has more large units than large households, overcrowding conditions still exist due to the gap between income and rent. According to the 2000 Census, 16.6% of 1,962 renter households with five or more household members, and 7.6% of 5,514 owner households with five or more household members, were paying 50% or more of their income for housing costs. There are not enough large subsidized housing units in Santa Clarita to meet the needs of larger lower income families and seniors. The City does not have its own housing authority so Santa Clarita residents must apply to the County of Los Angeles Housing Authority for Section 8 vouchers. Compared to the enormous need for housing assistance Countywide, the County Housing Authority has very few vouchers and waiting lists are several years long. In addition, median rents in Santa Clarita exceed the rent limits imposed by the Section 8 program, because Santa Clarita's housing costs are higher than that of Countywide. Resources There are 444 subsidized units for low and very low income families. Mercy Housing, a nonprofit affordable housing developer, has proposed acquiring and rehabilitating a 67-unit building that currently has 14 units with rents affordable to households earning 80% or less of median income. If Mercy Housing is successful, then the property will provide 30 two- and three -bedroom units at 50% of median income and 36 units affordable at 60% of median income. The City also plans to assist in the development of 120 new low- and very -low income units using its redevelopment housing set -aside funds in the future. D. Housing for Farm Workers Data on employment by industry and occupation from the 2000 Census and the 2006 American Community Survey is provided in Tables H-3.5 and H-3.6. The 2000 data on employment by occupation shows that only 16 people were employed in the combined fields of agriculture, forestry, fishing, and mining. There is no way to tell from the data whether any of these 16 people was employed as a farm worker, since this occupational category could also include agronomists, forestry experts, and similar occupations. Most of the remaining agriculture in Los Angeles County is in the Antelope Valley. There are only four farms left in the Santa Clarita Valley area, and no working farms within Santa Clarita's city limits. If there are any farm workers living in the City, they would have the same needs as other persons with similar incomes. Since there is no population of farm workers identified as a special needs group in the City, it is assumed for purposes of the Housing Element that the needs of any possible members of this group have been addressed in sections of the element dealing with other residents, based on income levels or other special needs. H-79 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan E. Housing for Female -Headed Households Needs According to the 2006 ACS, there are 4,934 female -headed family households in Santa Clarita, of which 2,160 households (44%) are renters. There are another 3,332 family households headed by men with no wife present. Of these 1,999, or 60%, are owners and 40% are renters. Median income for families with female householders is lower than that for any other type of family. ACS table B19126 shows that female -headed families with children under age 18 have a median income of $39,465 while single male -headed families with children have a median income of $60,205. In Santa Clarita, with a median household income of $75,917 in 2006, female -headed households have just over half (52%) of the overall median income. Resources Single Mothers Outreach (SMO) confirms that its nonprofit program provides services that include food and clothing to about 30 women per month. SMO clients are divorced or separated women with children whose incomes are high enough that they are not eligible for public assistance such as Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), yet low enough that they do not have enough money to meet their families' basic needs. Families eligible for public assistance can obtain help at the Santa Clarita District Office of the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS). Services for low income families and individuals are also provided by the Santa Clarita Valley Service Center, a multi -service center operated by the Los Angeles County Department of Community and Senior Citizens Services. A network of Santa Clarita churches works with the public sector social service agencies to provide assistance to impoverished families and individuals, as church resources permit. There are 444 subsidized units in Santa Clarita available for low- and very -low income families, but vacancies in these apartment buildings are rare and only 174 units have rents that are affordable to families with 50% of median income. Another 270 have rents set at 60% of median income. There are not enough subsidized units to meet the needs of families who are rent -burdened. F. Families and Individuals in Need of Emergency and Transitional Shelter The City of Santa Clarita is situated in the County Service Planning Area 2 (SPA2), which also includes: a. The areas north along the Interstate 5 to the Kern County boundary; b. All of the San Fernando Valley and west on the 101 Freeway to the Ventura County boundary; and c. Burbank, Glendale, La Canada/Flintridge, San Fernando, and the areas at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains. DRAFT May, 2011 H-80 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element The population of SPA 2 is estimated by the County Department of Mental Health at just over two million. The City of Santa Clarita represents 8.8% of the SPA 2 population ($177,045). The County of Los Angeles 2007 homeless count estimated that SPA 2 had 6,411 homeless. Using the 8.8% figure for the proportion of SPA 2 homeless in Santa Clarita, it is estimated that Santa Clarita may have up to 564 homeless. This is currently the only information that is available to determine the number of homeless persons. The Santa Clarita Community Development Corporation (SCCDC) operates a Cold Weather Shelter in Santa Clarita during the winter months. Data provided by SCCDC shows that during the winter of 2006-2007, shelter was provided to a total of 196 homeless persons including members of 22 homeless families. Tables H-4.5, H-4.6 and H-4.7 provide data on the client type, age and race or ethnicity of the people who used the winter shelter and its daytime case management program. There were 97 single adult males and 28 single adult females during the shelter season. Twenty-two families with 40 children under age 18 also used the program. There were also 20 youth ages 18 to 23. Nearly half (47.1 %) were age 24 to 44 and another 25.8% were age 45 to 54. Nearly 60% (59.5%) of clients were White, 19% were Latino, and 16% were African American. There were six clients who identified themselves as either American Indian or Alaska Native. In the 2007-2008 winter shelter period, the Santa Clarita Emergency Winter Shelter housed 239 persons between December 6, 2007 and March 15, 2008, including 26 families with 60 children. This was a 20% increase over the 2006-2007 winter shelter and probably reflects the deepening mortgage crisis with its attendant evictions, and increases in unemployment and in the cost of rent. The outcome of shelter case management in 07-08 was that 27 persons found jobs and 25 persons/or families found permanent housing. The 2008-2009 winter shelter period saw an increase in the number of persons utilizing the Santa Clarita Emergency Winter Shelter. Table H-4.5: Number of Homeless Clients in 2006-2007 Winter Shelter Client Type Shelter Number Day Case Management Single Adult Males 97 43 Single Adult Females 28 221 Families 22 21 Adult Family members 34 33 Child Family members 40 (not included in total) 39 [Unduplicated Total 196 85 Source: Santa Clarita Community Development Corporation H-81 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Table H-4.6: Age of Homeless Clients in 2006-2007 Winter Shelter Age Number Percent Children 17 and under 40 20.4 Youth 18 to 23 20 10.2 24-44 75 38.3 45-54 41 20.9 55-69 14 7.1 70 + 1 0.5 Data not available 5 2.6 Total 196 Source: Santa Clarita Community Development Corporation Table H-4.7: Race/Ethnicity of Homeless Clients in 2006-2007 Winter Shelter Race/Ethnicity Number Percent American Indian or Alaska Native 6 3.7 Asian 1 0.6 Black or African American 26 16 Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander 2 12 Latino or Hispanic 31 19 White 97 59.5 Total (children not included) 163 Source: Santa Clarita Community Development Corporation There is no emergency shelter in the City of Santa Clarita that is open 12 months a year. During the winter months (December through March 15), the Santa Clarita Community Development Corporation operates a Cold Weather Shelter funded by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) on a site approved only for temporary use. In an agreement with the City of Santa Clarita, the site must be rotated every three years to a different location. Currently, there are no known transitional or supportive housing units for either individuals or families in the City limits. On April 28, 2009, the City of Santa Clarita adopted an ordinance that allows transitional and supportive housing in all residential zones (Program 1­15-3). In approving this ordinance, the City of Santa Clarita identified three areas where homeless shelters would be permitted by right. The three areas include the Valencia Industrial Center, Rye Canyon Business Park, and areas DRAFT May, 2011 H-82 Citv of Santa Clarita General Plan Housina Element of the Centre Pointe Business Park. These three areas comprise approximately 416 acres within the City and are located in primarily developed areas. These areas are primarily built -out with industrial and commercial uses with approximately 20% of the area vacant. There are existing hotels, schools, and government buildings in the project area with residential uses and residentially zoned lands adjacent. The lot size ranges from under a half an acre to over 25 acres in size. The methodology for selecting these areas is as follows: The identified area is supported by resources such as public transit, trails, and proximity to major employment centers; They are located along major corridors in the City allowing for easy access for patrons; The areas allow for commercial developments that could easily accommodate the building and lot size required for a homeless shelter with an FAR of 1:1; and The location is not adjacent to residences and schools. Resources and Solutions The SCCDC Emergency Winter Shelter operates from about December 1 to March 15 each year. The Emergency Winter Shelter provides overnight shelter, food, clothing, medical and mental health services as well as other assistance and referrals. The shelter is not open during the day. Daytime case management for shelter residents and for homeless families is provided through a contract with another service provider at Bethlehem Church. Families who comply with case management objectives can receive motel vouchers for up to one month. In 2008, Lutheran Social Services, which has an office in Canyon Country, will also provide motel vouchers for homeless families in Santa Clarita. This effort will supplement services provided at the Emergency Winter Shelter, which is open only between December and March and is not open during the day. The voucher provides up to 90 days of shelter. Lutheran Social Services will provide vouchers for up to 90 days of shelter for to up to five families per month; if each family uses the vouchers for the maximum of 90 days, the vouchers will assist 20 families per year. Eviction Prevention Services Lutheran Social Services operates an eviction prevention program, providing one-time payments to assist with housing costs in order to help families wish short-term cash -flow problems stay in their homes. Moving costs can also be provided under this program for households who need to move to a lower -cost apartment. DPSS Homeless Assistance Program The Department of Public Social Services continues to provide one-time homeless assistance to families eligible for CalWorks. Covered expenses include up to 16 days in a motel and move -in costs for permanent rental housing. Funds are also available to prevent eviction by paying two months of overdue rent or mortgage payments H-83 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan V. PROJECTED HOUSING NEEDS AND SUITABLE SITES A. Regional Housing Needs Assessment Future Housing Needs California housing element law requires regional Councils of Governments (COGs) throughout the State to periodically make projections of anticipated growth in employment and population within the area they serve. Based on this projection, the COGs calculate a fair share of the need for new housing in each jurisdiction of their member counties. The projected housing needs generated from this process are known as the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA). Each city or county in a COG planning region must ensure that its housing element is consistent with the RHNA prepared by that COG, and must identify sufficient land in the General Plan land use element, appropriately zoned, to accommodate the housing growth estimated by the RHNA. The City of Santa Clarita is located within the COG planning area of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), which includes the counties of Ventura, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, and Imperial. In 2007, SCAG calculated the Regional Housing Needs Assessment, (RHNA) for its six -county region, assigning a portion of future housing units at four income levels to each city and county in the planning region, including the City of Santa Clarita. Like other cities in the SCAG region, Santa Clarita must identify sufficient land, appropriately zoned, to accommodate the housing growth within the City as estimated by SCAG. For the housing element planning period between January 2006 and June 2014, SCAG has estimated the number of new housing units needed in Santa Clarita to meet its fair share of the region's housing needs, through the RHNA process, as shown on Table H-5.1. These estimates include not only the total number of new units needed (9,598), but a breakdown by income level for very low, low, moderate, and above moderate households. California Housing Element Law Section 65583 a (1) also requires the jurisdiction to estimate the future needs of extremely low income households. This number may either be estimated from census data or the jurisdiction may presume that 50% of its allocation of very low income households will qualify as extremely low income. Since the last census was conducted nearly 10 years ago and data in the 2006 American Community Survey is based on a very small sample, the City of Santa Clarita will presume that the estimated need for very low income units will include 1,247 units (50% of very low income units) affordable to extremely low income households. Policy H.2.1 under Goal H.2," Assist in the development of adequate housing to meet the needs of extremely low, very low, low and moderate income households" states that the City will target one third of housing subsidies to extremely low income households in new affordable development. DRAFT May, 2011 H-84 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-5.1: Santa Clarita Housing Needs Regional Housing Needs Assessment, 2006- 2014 Income Level Number of Units Percent Very Low (50% or less of median) 2,493 26% Low (51 % to 80% of median) 1,560 16.2% Moderate (80% to 120% of median) 1,657 17.3% Above Moderate (>120% of median) 3,888 40.5% Total 9,598 100% Source: Southern California Association of Governments Area median income in Los Angeles County in 2008 has been determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Community Development (HUD) to be $59,800. According to guidelines published annually by HUD, an extremely low income family of four in the Los Angeles Metropolitan Statistical Area earns $22,750 or less, a very low income family of four is one that earns no more than $37,500, while a low-income family of the same size earns up to $42,450. During the previous housing element period (1998 to 2005), an additional 6,757 units were constructed within the City limits, including 20 very -low and 444 low-income units for seniors. Between 1998 and 2005, new construction in Santa Clarita met 94% of the City's RHNA allocation. The 2007-08 economic down -turns have substantially slowed new housing construction within the City. Many housing developers have put a hold on construction of approved subdivisions. Although home sales have recovered somewhat in Southern California during the last year (Data Quick News reported a 13.8% gain in sales during August 2008 over the same time last year), home prices have not rebounded, and sales within Los Angeles County were down by 3.2%. With housing prices flat or falling, the cost of construction rising, and tightening restrictions on lending, several local homebuilders have indicated to staff that new housing construction may be delayed through 2010 and beyond. H-85 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Based on these conditions, it is unknown if the number of new housing units in Santa Clarita will meet the City's new RHNA allocation of 9,598 new homes between 2006 and 2014. Although several real estate reports have predicted a gradual housing recovery beginning in 2010, it is hard to predict the strength and timing of that recovery. According to City permit data, during the three-year period of 2006-2008, a total of 502 new units were permitted in the City. A conservative estimate of housing production for the period 2009-2010 would assume a total of about 200 new units during these two years. If an economic recovery begins in late 2010, a gradual increase in the number of units produced annually could occur. Increasing the estimated housing production in increments of 50 units a year from 2011 through 2013 yields an additional 1,300 new units. Adding these units to the 502 units already constructed in 2006-08 yields a total estimate of 1,802 new homes within the City during the planning period. This number is only 27% of the 6,757 new units produced between 1998 and 2005, and only 19% of the RHNA allocation of 9,598 for 2006-2014. However, since the City does not produce new housing units itself, but can only establish suitable zoning and facilitate the permitting process for builders, actual housing production is a function of market factors beyond the City's control. For planning purposes, the City's efforts to ensure that adequate sites are zoned for production of housing to meet the RHNA numbers and its good faith efforts to identify and remove constraints on housing development, are sufficient to meet State requirements. B. Adequate Sites Analysis State Requirements for Adequate Sites California Government Code Section 65883(a)(3) requires that housing elements include an inventory of land suitable for residential development, including vacant sites and sites having the potential for redevelopment, and an analysis of the zoning and infrastructure available to serve these sites. This inventory is used to identify sites that can be feasibly developed for housing within the planning period in order to meet the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA). This section of the Housing Element contains the required inventory of adequate sites for new housing that can be developed to meet the City's housing needs within the planning period. As noted above, the planning period for this Housing Element update is from January 1, 2006 through June 30, 2014. At the time this Housing Element update was prepared, some of the new housing units identified during this planning period by the RHNA had already been constructed. Table H-5.2 summarizes the City's RHNA numbers, the units that have already been constructed, and the remaining housing units that must be accommodated in the suitable sites analysis through the end of the planning period. Table H-5.2 City of Santa Clarita RHNA and Completed Units as of 12/31/2008 Income Level RHNA Completed Units Remaining Units Very Low 2,493 0 2,494 Low 1,560 0 1,560 Moderate 1,657 50 1,607 Above Moderate 3,888 452 3,436 Total 9,598 502 9,096 DRAFT May, 2011 H-86 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Based on this table, the City's General Plan land use map must indicate that at least 9,096 new dwelling units may be feasibly developed through year 2014, based on site conditions and availability of public services and infrastructure. The land use map was prepared for the General Plan update concurrently with the Housing Element revision, and adequate sites for new residential development were included on the land use map to meet the RHNA requirements. A draft Environmental Impact Report was prepared for the entire General Plan, including the Land Use Map and Housing Element, in 2008-09 and will be certified concurrently with General Plan adoption in 2009. Therefore, the requirement for adequate housing sites on the land use map has been met in the General Plan update. Available Land Inventory for Housinq within the City of Santa Clarita In evaluating sites suitable for new housing units, potential development constraints such as slopes, ridgelines, fault and flood hazards, environmental resources, access, availability of infrastructure, and other property characteristics were evaluated to ensure that each site can feasibly support the number of potential dwelling units allocated to it. Housing sites were also evaluated based on proximity to public transit and support services for residents, such as neighborhood commercial uses, schools, and parks. Potential residential sites include vacant and underutilized land that is currently zoned for residential or mixed uses, and land within pending specific plans that will be designated for residential uses. The sites identified for new housing are shown on Exhibit H-5.1; they include 25 separate areas which are labeled by number. A brief description of each site suitable for future housing development is provided below, along with its proposed OVOV land use designations. Following adoption of the OVOV General Plan, the City will need to amend the Unified Development Code and Zoning Map to be consistent with the OVOV land use designations. Since this Housing Element is part of an update of the complete General Plan, a number of the land use classifications are being modified and would not correlate with the existing General Plan categories. For example the CR classification would correspond to the existing CTC category, and the UR5 Category would correspond to the previous RH category. Since the existing General Plan does not have a mixed use (MX-C) category there is no comparable classification though this classification is being placed on generally on areas with the CC land use classification. The chart below demonstrates existing density examples for each of the land use categories: Table H-5.3 City of Santa Clarita Comparable Land Use Category Comparison Existing Category Proposed Category Project Name Density CTC RC Hanover 43 upa CC MX-C Bouquet Apts 45 upa RH UR5 CC Communities 35 upa It should be noted that based upon information contained in the various elements of the General Plan and associated Environmental Impact Report, adequate capacity exists for both domestic water and sewage services during the program years of this Element. Additional information and attributes regarding each of the described parcels, including an aerial photograph for each site, is contained in the appendix for this element. H-87 DRAFT May, 2011 ]/§� J] p/ f/ !� !■ Jig , � � �« a) / �!IN .�1. 0001 ° . } 4111, \ ( § City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Housing Site 1 is located in the community of Valencia, on the south side of Magic Mountain Parkway west of Citrus Street, and contains 28.2 acres. Based on the OVOV land use map designation of Regional Commercial (RC) (18-50 units/acre) and the inclusion of the density bonus, a total of 1,760 units could be built on the project site. A realistic estimate of units to be built on Site 1 is 450 units. The current zoning of Commercial Town Center allows multi -family dwellings at a density up to 50 units/acre. Assessor Parcel Numbers: 2861-058-058, 2861-059-038, 2861-059-037, 2861-059-039, 2861-059-042, 2861-059-045, 2861-058-014, 2861-058-049, 2861-058-050, 2861-058- 051, 2861-058-052, 2861-058-053, 2861-058-054, 2861-058-055, 2861-058-056 The site is currently vacant and occupied by a parking lot for the existing shopping mall. This area is not utilized for parking of the existing regional mall. Major portions of the site are currently used for temporary uses such as carnivals, construction staging for materials, recreational vehicle show and off -site parking for various uses. In addition, the property owner has presented conceptual plans to the City highlighting residential uses in this location. The site is currently under a single ownership. In addition, there is currently existing residential and mixed use developments in the general area with densities over 40 units per acre including the Madison mixed use project. As an infill site, all infrastructure is available to the property and the site is readily developable. The site is suitable for very low and low-income units. Facilities in this area include the McBean Transfer Station, a pedestrian paseo system, and the City of Santa Clarita and County of Los Angeles Civic Center. The City of Santa Clarita and Los Angeles County are in discussions regarding developing a strategic plan for this area that would include upgrading City and County facilities and providing provisions for housing opportunities in the area. Housing Site 2 is located on the north side of the City in Bouquet Canyon, and contains one vacant 36.3-acre parcel on the west side of Bouquet Canyon Road, south of Copper Hill Drive. The Urban Residential-5 (UR-5) General Plan designation allows 18-30 units/acre. This classification along with the density bonus allowances would allow for up to 1,360 units. However, based on the site's topography, floodway and other constraints, an estimated 300 units may be reasonably accommodated on the property. The current zoning is Residential Suburban, which allows up to five units per acre. Assessor Parcel Number: 2812-008-022 The site is currently vacant and under a single ownership. The site contains one house that is approximately 50 years old that could easily be accommodated within the development of the site. The area around the project site is located in an area that has seen minimal development as it was built prior to the City's incorporation in 1987. However, in the Los Angels County unincorporated areas to the east and south, there are existing group quarters and multi -family development with over 20 units per acre. In addition, there are existing approvals in the general area for additional multi -family units exceeding this density. All needed infrastructure is available to the property and the majority of the site is readily developable. The site is suitable for very low and low-income units. Discussions for developing the site have occurred with the property owners over the last decade. H-89 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Site 3 is located in the community of Canyon Country, generally southwest of the western terminus of Via Princessa. This vacant site contains 66.8 acres, with a General Plan designation of Urban Residental-5 (UR-5) (18-30 units/acre). The General Plan would allow approximately 2,500 units with the density bonus provisions. The site has hillside topography and lacks urban infrastructure. The General Plan calls for Via Princessa to be extended to facilitate development of this property and the City has certified an EIR for this roadway extension and is currently seeking funding for the project. Based on site conditions, it is estimated that a maximum of 700 units may be accommodated on Site 3, which may include very low and low-income units. The current zoning is Residential Low, which allows up to 2.2 units per acre. Assessor Parcel Numbers: 2836-014-057, 2836-014-056 This vacant site is under the ownership of two entities at this time. It is located adjacent to the City's sports complex and a high school and there are attached and detached condominiums in proximity to the site. However, both properties are dependent on each other for infrastructure improvements to build the project. Both property owners have previously contacted the City regarding development of the site. Housing Site 4 is located on the south side of Golden Valley Road, approximately one mile west of Sierra Highway. This vacant 58.4-acre site is designated Urban Residential-5 (UR-5) (18-30 units/acre). Under the General Plan and with density bonuses, the project site would allow approximately 2,200 units. The property contains hillsides and existing oil wells which will affect ultimate residential density. It is estimated that up to 850 units may be built on the site. All urban infrastructure needed to support development is available to the property, and the site is suitable for very low and low income units. The current zoning is Residential Moderate, which allows up to 11 units per acre, with an overlay of MOCA — Mineral and Oil Conservation Area. Assessor Parcel Numbers: 2836-013-135, 2836-013-173, 2836-013-911, 2836-013-912, Currently, there are only a limited number of extracting oil wells and they are focused on the west side, therefore there is enough space to fit the units in without too much disruption to the wells. A number of the existing wells are injector wells (basically injecting steam or water into the ground to loosen up the remaining oil deposits) which are not as nuisance as the extraction wells. There are a number of the wells being abandoned by the State in the area. This site is currently owned by a non-profit agency that acquires properties for a local school district. This property is excess land from a high school which is located adjacent to the site. The property owners have spoken to the City about the possibility of utilizing the site for the placement of workforce housing that would be affordable, especially to entry-level instructors. The agency requested that the U-5 land use category be placed on this site. DRAFT May, 2011 H-90 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Housing Site 5 is located in the northeastern portion of the City, east of Sierra Highway and north of Soledad Canyon Road. This vacant 23.6-acre site is designated Urban Residential-5 (UR-5) (18-30 units/acre). The General Plan, with density bonus provisions, would allow over 750 units. Based on hillside topography, it is estimated that the site could accommodate a maximum of 200 units, including very -low and low-income units. Infrastructure is available to support development of the site. The current zoning is Residential Low (2.2 units/acre) and Residential Moderate (11 units/acre). Assessor Parcel Numbers: 2839-020-001, 2839-020-002, 2939-020-003, 2839-020-004, 2839-020-005, 2839-020-008, 2839-021-006, 2839-020-006, 2839-020-007, 2839-020- 005, 2839-021-009, 2839-020-004, 2839-020-003, 2839-021-010, 2839-021-016, 2839- 021-018 These vacant parcels are located in an area that would be ready for development since sewer facilities were recently brought to the area. There are existing attached housing units adjacent to the site with densities that allow for these types of housing opportunities. The area has been identified as a possible candidate for the use of CDBG funds to pay for additional infrastructure improvements. An entitlement was previously filed on a portion of the site. Housing Site 6 is located on the south side of Soledad Canyon Road, approximately one mile east of Bouquet Canyon Road. This underutilized 35.1-acre site is designated Mixed Use - Corridor (MX-C) (18-30 units/acre). The General Plan with inclusion of the density bonus provisions would allow over 1,300 residential units on the site. The property contains an idled auto speedway and is primarily flat. The site is adjacent to a Metrolink commuter rail station. It is estimated that up to 450 units may realistically be built on the site. All urban infrastructure needed to support development is available to the property, and the site is suitable for very -low and low-income units. The current zoning is Community Commercial (CC), which allows up to 50 units per acre with the Valley Center overlay. Assessor Parcel Numbers: 2836-011-018 This single ownership site is adjacent to the Metrolink station and major transportation route and is only used on a limited basis. The representatives for the land, which is long-time family owned, have been in contact with the City of Santa Clarita discussing the possibility of development in the future. The location has all of the attributes for development of residential units. Housing Site 7 is located on the southwest intersection of Bouquet Canyon Road and Valencia Boulevard. This existing 27.4-acre site is designated Mixed Use -Corridor (MX-C) (18-30 units/acre). The General Plan, with the inclusion of the density bonus, would allow over 1,025 units on the project site. The property is currently flat and contains existing commercial development including a nursery. The site is traversed by an earthquake fault and regional water transmission line which will affect ultimate residential density. It is estimated that up to 250 units may be built on the site. All urban infrastructure needed to support development is available to the property, and the site is suitable for very -low and low-income units. The current zoning is Community Commercial (CC), which allows up to 50 units per acre with the Valley Center overlay. Assessor Parcel Numbers: 2811-002-014, 2811-002-069, 2811-002-272, 2811-002-274, 2811-002-276 H-91 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan The site could support residential units while maintaining the majority of the existing commercial development. One of the principal property owners has contacted the City regarding the redevelopment of the site as a mixed -use project. The site is located near the Metrolink station and other transit and transportation routes. Housing Site 8 is located on the south side of Lyons Avenue, approximately two miles east of Interstate 5. This 11.6-acre site is designated Mixed Use -Corridor (MX-C) (18-30 units/acre). According to the new General Plan, 435 units, using the density bonus provisions, are allowed on the project site. The property contains an existing shopping center and bowling alley. A large portion of the site is occupied with a defunct movie theatre that is still occasionally used for assembly uses. It is estimated that up to 150 units may realistically be built on the site. All urban infrastructure needed to support development is available to the property, and the site is suitable for very -low and low-income units. The current zoning is Community Commercial (CC). Assessor Parcel Numbers: 2829-007-048, 2830-001-015, 2830-001-025, 2830-001-027, 2830-001-029, 2830-001-036, 830-001-037, 2830-001-038, 2830-001-039, 2830-001- 041, 2830-001-042, 2830-001-043, 2830-001-051, 2830-001-208, 2830-001-209, 2830- 001-214. The commercial project site would lend itself to mixed -use development with the support of the Redevelopment Agency. The site is located adjacent to a City park, elementary school and other services. Adjacent to the site on two sides are higher density condominium projects. The site is currently able to accommodate multiple pedestrian and vehicular access points. The existing facilities were part of the first major commercial center in the General Plan area and is toward the end of the building's useful life cycle. Since this area is in a redevelopment area, additional funding for the site may be available. Housing Site 9 is located on the north side of Soledad Canyon Road, approximately one mile west of Sierra Highway. The 5.4-acre site is currently developed with various retail uses in a strip commercial configuration. The site is designated Mixed Use -Corridor (MX-C) (18-30 units/acre). The General Plan would allow over 200 units with the density bonus provisions allowed by the State. It is estimated that up to 75 units may be realistically built on the site. All urban infrastructure needed to support development is available to the property, and the site is suitable for very -low and low-income units. The current zoning is Community Commercial (CC). Assessor Parcel Numbers: 2803-032-001, 2803-032-025, 2803-032-034, 2803-032-35, 2803-032-042, 2803-032-043. Given that the frontage of the site is on a major roadway corridor and the fact that there is over 60% percent of the building square footage is vacant, a mixed -use development would be a logical choice on this location. The project is located on a major transportation corridor and is adjacent to commercial, medical and entertainment services. The project site is in close proximity to a new community college campus and this site would be a logical location for student and staff housing alternatives. In addition, the high voltage electrical transmission lines along the frontage of the site were recently placed underground. The City has identified this corridor for revitalization. Housing Site 10 is located on the south side of Lyons Avenue, adjacent to Interstate 5. This 3.9-acre site is designated Mixed Use -Corridor (MX-C) (18-30 units/acre). The property contains an isolated commercial shopping center with limited access. The General Plan would DRAFT May, 2011 H-92 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element allow approximately 150 units to be built on the site. It is estimated that up to 90 units may be built on the site. All urban infrastructure needed to support development is available to the property, and the site is suitable for very -low and low-income units. The current zoning is Community Commercial (CC). Assessor Parcel Numbers: 2825-015-015 Due to the lack of highway frontage, proximity to Interstate 5 and single ownership, the site is an excellent candidate to support residential units with a mixed use component. The site has a number of vacant units and its sitting limits the amount of long term tenants. In addition, the site lends itself to residential uses based upon its close proximity to a major freeway corridor, it is set back from the road network and the built environment surrounding the site. The City's Redevelopment Agency has identified this location as a prime example of a site where redevelopment "set aside" funds could be used for low and very income housing units. Housing Site 11 is located on both the north and south side of Soledad Canyon Road, east of the intersection of Sierra Highway. The site is 29.4-acre and contains a number of older and vacant commercial uses in addition to an existing small mobile home park. The site is designated Mixed Use -Corridor (MX-C) (18-30 units/acre). The General Plan would allow over 1,100 residential units to be built on the properties. The property contains a floodway which will affect ultimate residential density. It is estimated that up to 275 units may be realistically built on the site. All urban infrastructure needed to support development is available to the property, and the site is suitable for very -low and low-income units. The current zoning is Community Commercial (CC). Assessor Parcel Numbers: 2844-003-005, 2844-003-004, 2844-003-006, 2844-003-006, 2844-003-009, 2844-003-003, 2844-003-902, 2844-005-028, 2844-005-020, 2844-005- 016, 2844-001-056, 2844-001-056, 2844-001-024, 2844-001-026, 2844-001-804, 2844- 001-038, 2844-001-063, 2844-001-046, 2844-001-072, 2844-001-068, 2844-001-033, 2844-001-032 This site has multiple property owners, however, the City of Santa Clarita has facilitated a series of meetings with these property owners to possibly combine the properties into one master plan area. Once the housing market rebounds, the project should move forward. The plan would focus on mixed use and could contain income -restricted uses. Housing Site 12 is located on the north side of Newhall Avenue, approximately two miles west of Sierra Highway. This site is designated Mixed Use -Corridor (MX-C) (18-30 units/acre). The general plan would allow 138 units to be built on the site with the allowable density bonus provisions. The 3.7-acre property contains oak trees with an existing commercial center, park - and -ride lot and vacant land which will affect ultimate residential density. It is estimated that up to 60 units may be built on the site. All urban infrastructure needed to support development is available to the property, and the site is suitable for very -low and low-income units. The current zoning is Community Commercial (CC) and Residential Moderate (RM) which allows up to 30 units per acre. Assessor Parcel Numbers: 2833-016-037, 2833-016-044, 2833-016-900. H-93 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan The City's Redevelopment Agency is currently working with a non-profit organization to develop income -restricted units on this site. In addition, the City has initiated the process with Caltrans to have this seldom used park and ride lot to be surplus property, thereby opening the door to facilitate the development of the site. The timing of the project is based upon the completion of the Caltrans process. Housing Site 13 is located on the west side of Sierra Highway at Beneda Lane. The 11.6-acre site is designated Non-Urban-4 (0.5 units/acre) on the General Plan land use map. There are 79 approved units on this site at a density of 0.5 units per acre, of which some are under construction. These homes are priced to sell at moderate income levels, although they have not been restricted by covenant as affordable units. All infrastructure has been constructed to support residential development, and environmental constraints were considered in the project design. The property is zoned Residential Moderate (11 units/acre). No further development is expected on this property, but the 79 approved units will be constructed during the planning period and will count toward meeting the City's RHNA requirements for market rate units. Tract 62252 and Tract 60536 Housing Site 14 is located in Canyon Country, generally north of the Santa Clara River at the future Newhall Ranch Road. The site is vacant and consists of 263.71 acres. Designated as Urban Residential-3 (6-11 du/ac) on the Land Use Map, the site can accommodate approximately 500 units based on its hillside topography. A development entitlement has been approved on this property allowing 400 multi -family units and 99 single-family units. These multi -family units are proposed to be sold at the moderate range, although they are not restricted by covenant to remain affordable. All urban infrastructures are available to support residential development. The current zoning of Residential Moderate (11 units/acre) and Residential Suburban (5 units/acre) allows the approved development. Tentative Tract 60258 Housing Site 15 is located north of the Santa Clara River, extending between Bouquet Canyon Road and future Golden Valley Road, and includes 698.4 acres designated as Urban Residential-3 (6-11 units/acre). This site was previously subdivided and is approved for 657 multi -family residential and 439 single-family residential homes, some of which have been built. The site is served with all infrastructure capacity to support the approved housing project. Environmental constraints on the site, which include hillsides, riparian areas near the river, archeological resources, and oak tree woodlands, have been mitigated pursuant to an approved environmental document. Some housing units in Site 15 are expected to be priced at the range of moderate -income households, although no units have been restricted by covenant to remain affordable. The current zoning is Residential Moderate, which allows up to 11 units per acre, and no rezone is necessary to allow development of the property. Tentative Tract 53425 Housing Site 16 consists of approximately 1,000 acres and is designated as Specific Plan on the Land Use Map. The site, known as Wh ittaker- Berm ite, generally extends south of Soledad Canyon Road between Golden Valley Road and Railroad Avenue, and is currently vacant. The site was historically used as munitions manufacturing facility and ceased operations in the mid- 1980's. Since that time, clean-up has been occurring under the review of DTSC. Portions of the site have already been deemed cleaned. Remediation continues on other portions of the DRAFT May, 2011 H-94 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element site. It is envisioned that construction could begin on the site in the next 3-4 years. .A specific plan (the Porta Bella Specific Plan) has been approved for the site which allows a maximum of 2,911 dwelling units. The presence of hillsides, oak trees and other environmental factors were considered in the environmental document prepared for that project. Housing units in Site 16 are expected to be priced at the range of moderate -income households, although no units have been restricted by covenant to remain affordable. Urban infrastructure will need to be extended to this site to support future residential development. It is envisioned that the existing plan will be revised to possibly allow for additional units. With this revision, it is expected that additional units will be requested including allowances for approximately 350 low and very -low units. The current zoning is Specific Plan to reflect the adopted Porta Bella Specific Plan. Tentative Tract 51599 Housing Site 17 is located north of Golden Valley Road, west of Sierra Highway. This site consists of 33 acres designated as Urban Residential-4 (9-18 units/acre) on the Land Use Map. The site was approved for development as a single-family residential subdivision and 167 dwelling units have been constructed within the planning period; these units are applicable to meeting the City's RHNA requirements for market rate units. Housing units in Site 17 are expected to be priced at the range of moderate to market -rate income levels, although no units have been restricted by covenant to remain affordable. All urban infrastructure is provided to the site. The site is zoned Residential Medium High (20 units/acre), and no zone change is required for development. Tract 61811 Housing Site 18 consists of 4.2 acres located on the north side of Golden Valley Road, west of Sierra Highway. The property is designated as Mixed Use -Neighborhood (MX-N) on the Land Use Map (11-30 units/acre). The site is currently vacant and all urban infrastructure is available to serve future residential development. No site constraints were identified. Nine single-family homes have been approved on this site, available to market -rate buyers. The current zoning is Residential Medium High (20 units/acre), and no zone change is required for development. Tentative Tract 67374 Housing Site 19 consists of 5.14 acres designated as Urban the land use map. The site is located on the west side of Valley Road, and has been approved for construction of 111 being constructed during the planning period. All infrastruct and constraints were addressed during project design. The Medium High (20 units/acre) and no zone change is require requirements for market -rate units. Tract 53419 Residential-3 (6-11 units/acre) on Sierra Highway, north of Golden multi -family dwellings, which were ure has been provided to the site site is currently zoned Residential �d. These units will meet RHNA Housing Site 20 contains approximately 300 acres designated as Urban Residential-2 (5 units/acre) on the land use map. The site contains hillsides and oak trees which affect potential residential density. The site has been approved for 498 single-family dwellings, including 94 units for a senior citizen community. These units have not yet been constructed; however, a school has been constructed as part of the approved development project that will support the eventual construction of these homes. Housing units in Site 14 are expected to be priced at the range of moderate to market -rate households, although no units have been restricted by H-95 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan covenant to remain affordable. All urban infrastructures are in place to support future residential development. Current zoning is Residential Suburban (5 units/acre), and no zone change is required. Tract 52414 Housinq Site 21 contains approximately 500 acres designated as Specific Plan. This area is located in Downtown Newhall, generally adjacent to Main Street, Railroad Avenue and Lyons Avenue. Site 15 contains the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan, which was adopted by the City in 2006, and will accommodate up to 712 additional dwelling units, including both single and multi -family. This plan allows mixed -use development in proximity to a Metrolink rail station, and the site is therefore suitable for all income levels. Residential units at a density up to 30 units per acre are expected to be developed in the specific plan area, pursuant to the form - based zoning allowed by the plan. Street Boundaries — Bounded by 13th Street to the north, Newhall Avenue to the west, Race Street to east and Newhall Avenue to the south, including portions of Pine Street. A full description for each Assessor's parcel in this area is contained in the Appendix for this element. Since this area is designated as a Specific Plan and is located in a Redevelopment Area, the Redevelopment Agency can participate in implementing units in Project Site 21. It is envisioned that transit -oriented development would occur in the area surrounding the rail station. The Agency is also speaking to property owners in the area regarding partnerships to develop housing as part of mixed -use development. Lastly, there are a number of vacant and underutilized parcels that would support additional residential units. Housing Site 22 is located between Sites 9 and 10, and consists of approximately 33 acres on the south side of the Santa Clara River, west of Golden Oak Road. The site is designated as Urban Residential-5 (UR-5) on the land use map (18-30 units/acre). A subdivision map has been approved on this site which allows 407 residential units, which have not yet been constructed. The homes in Site 22 are intended for above -moderate income levels. The site is currently zoned Residential Medium High (Planned Development, 20 units/acre), and no zone change is required for development. Tentative Tract 62322 Housing Site 23 is located in Canyon Country, north of Soledad Canyon Road and east of Sand Canyon Road. The site contains 87 acres designated as Urban Residential-1 (2 units/acre) on the Land Use Map. A single-family residential subdivision has been proposed for this site and an environmental document is currently being prepared to mitigate any site constraints. The project proposes 256 single-family and multi -family residential units. These homes will be market -rate units, priced for moderate -income households (but not restricted by covenant to remain affordable). The residential portion of the site is zoned Residential Very Low and Residential Suburban, and the remainder is Community Commercial. No zone change is required for development. Assessor Parcel Numbers: 2839-005-035, 2839-006-052, 2839-006-053, 2839-006-054, 2839-006-063, 2839-006-058 DRAFT May, 2011 H-96 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Housing Site 24 is located in Canyon Country, south of the Santa Clara River and extending from Oak Spring Canyon Road to the eastern City limits. This 193-acre site is designated Non- Urban-5 (1 unit/acre) and Urban Residential-1 (2 units/acre) on the land use map. An entitlement has been approved for 103 single-family residential homes, which are anticipated to be constructed during the planning period. The site contains numerous oak trees and is adjacent to the Santa Clara River. All infrastructure was installed during development of the subdivision, and environmental constraints were addressed in environmental document and project design. These homes will be available to market -rate buyers. The site is zoned Residential Very Low (1 unit/acre) and Residential Low (2.2 units/acre) and no zone change is required. Tentative Tract 63002 Housing Site 25 is located south of Soledad Canyon Road and west of Camp Plenty Road and consists of 18.6 acres, designated as Urban Residential-2 (5 units/acre). This site has been approved for 147 single-family units and is currently vacant, as construction has not commenced. All urban infrastructure is available to support residential development on the site. Homes on this site are expected to be priced for moderate -income households, although no homes are proposed to be restricted by covenant for affordability. The site is zoned Residential Moderate (11 units/acre) and no zone change is required. Tentative Tract 62343 Zoning for Suitable Sites As set forth in the above descriptions of the suitable sites, all but 11 of the sites are currently zoned to allow development of proposed or approved units within their boundaries, and the General Plan land use designation for these sites will allow housing development pursuant to the OVOV General Plan adoption. However, for 14 of the suitable housing sites, the OVOV General Plan Land Use Element will allow housing development at the density specified, but the existing zoning map must be revised to allow housing development at the specified density. Rezoning of these suitable housing sites will be accomplished as part of the comprehensive update of the City's Unified Development Code and Zoning Map, after adoption of the General Plan. It is anticipated that this Code update and rezoning effort will be completed within 18 months after General Plan adoption. Less than 50% of the Low and Very -Low units are contained within areas not designated as UR-5 (30 units per acre) residential uses only. A program has been added to the Housing Element to indicate the City's intent to rezone these sites concurrent with the Code update effort, by December 2010. H-97 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Suitable Sites Summary Based on the above analysis of suitable sites for new housing, it is estimated that over 10,000 new dwelling units may be accommodated by the General Plan Land Use Map, which will be sufficient to meet the RHNA requirement for 9,598 units during the planning period. As noted above, 502 of these required units have already been constructed since January 1, 2006. In addition, suitable sites have been identified for households of various income levels, as summarized below: Number of sites available for very low and low income households (at 30 du/acre or more): 4,200 Number of sites available for moderate -income households: 1,755 Number of sites available for market rate and unrestricted income households: 4,637 VI. GOVERNMENTAL CONSTRAINTS TO HOUSING PRODUCTION Among the options available to cities to promote housing affordability is the authority to facilitate construction of new dwellings by removing the constraints imposed by local government. Such constraints may include processing requirements for development applications, design and development standards, density limitations, fees and exactions, and the time and uncertainty associated with obtaining construction8 permits. State law requires each city undertaking a Housing Element to analyze the governmental constraints imposed on new development that may result in making housing unavailable or unaffordable. If any such constraints are identified that curtail the production of affordable housing and are not necessary to protect public health, safety and welfare, then the element should evaluate alternative measures that will allow housing to be built to serve the community's needs. The purpose of this section of the Housing Element is to review the governmental constraints applied to various types of housing in the City of Santa Clarita, and to identify any constraints that may reasonably be modified or removed in order to promote housing development and affordability. A. Land Use Controls — General Plan Land uses allowed within the City are determined by the General Plan Land Use Map, which was last revised as part of the One Valley One Vision (OVOV) General Plan adopted in 2009. This unique planning effort was jointly undertaken by the City and the County of Los Angeles in order to plan for the Santa Clarita Valley in a unified and comprehensive manner. The City and County worked together to develop a Land Use Map using the same land use district descriptions for both incorporated City areas and unincorporated County territory. The OVOV General Plan adopted many principles that are collectively known as smart growth, including transit -oriented development, walkable neighborhoods with access to services, non -motorized mobility options, promotion of balanced jobs and housing, live -work units, and mixed -use development. A summary table of land use districts that allow residential development is contained in Table H-6.1. DRAFT May, 2011 H-98 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-6.1: Land Use Districts Allowing Residential Uses 2009 One Valley One Vision General Plan Land Use District Density* Type of Residential Development Allowed Non -Urban 1 (NU 1) 1 du/20 acres Single-family homes in low density, rural environment Non -Urban 2 (NU 2) 1 du/10 acres Single-family homes in low density, rural environment Non -Urban 3 (NU 3) 1 du/5 acres Single-family homes in low density, rural environment Non -Urban 4 (NU 4) 1 du/2 acres Single-family homes in low density, rural environment Non -Urban 5 (NU 5) 1 du/acre Single-family homes in low density, rural environment Single-family homes on large lots, generally Urban Residential 1 (UR 1) 10,000-square feet or larger, at interface 2 du/acre between rural and urban areas. Clustering of units encouraged to preserve natural features and open space. Supportive commercial and institutional uses allowed per zoning. Single-family homes in neighborhoods of medium density typical of suburban Urban Residential 2 (UR 2) 5 du/acre development patterns. Clustering of units encouraged to preserve natural features and open space. Supportive commercial and institutional uses allowed per zoning. Single-family homes, duplexes, triplexes and Urban Residential 3 (UR 3) small-scale multi -family dwellings consistent 6 — 11 du/acre with a predominantly single-family residential neighborhood. Supportive commercial and institutional uses allowed per zoning. Single-family detached and attached homes, Urban Residential 4 (UR 4) 9 — 18 du/acre and multi -family dwellings. Supportive commercial and institutional uses allowed per zoning. Multi -family dwellings including apartment and Urban Residential 5 (UR 5) 18 — 30 du/acre condominiums up to 3 stories. Supportive commercial and institutional uses allowed per zoning. Multi -family dwellings in combination with Mixed Use - Corridor 11-30 du/acre commercial and office uses along major (MXC) arterial corridors, subject to Conditional Use Permit. Mixed Use — Urban Village Multi -family dwellings within transit -oriented (MXUV) 19-50 du/acre urban centers, in combination with commercial, office, and public uses, subject to master plan approval. Housing may be approved in the context of a Regional Commercial (CR) 18-50 du/acre mixed use project, subject to discretionary review conditional use permit or master Ian Community Commercial 11-30 du/acre Housing may be approved in the context of a H-99 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use District Density* Type of Residential Development Allowed (CC) mixed use project, subject to discretionary review (conditional use permit or master plan) Neighborhood Commercial Housing may be approved in the context of a (CN) 6-18 du/acre mixed use project, subject to discretionary review conditional use permit or master Ian *Density is shown as the number of dwelling units per gross acre. With regard to the densities shown for each district in Table H-6.1, the Land Use Element states that the maximum density or intensity is not guaranteed for any land use category. In determining the allowable density for each property shown on the Land Use Map, consideration will be given to topography; availability of roads and infrastructure; existing development patterns; potential land use conflicts; public health, safety, and welfare; presence of environmental resources; and other site constraints. The upper range of residential density will be granted only when the reviewing authority determines that all other applicable General Plan policies, codes, and requirements can be met on the site. The requirement that maximum density shall be allowed commensurate with the capacity of each site to accommodate development based on constraints and infrastructure is a change from the prior General Plan Housing Element language. The 2004 Housing Element contained the following wording which has not been included in the 2009 OVOV General Plan update: The City's Land Use Element and Unified Development Code set a range of allowable density for each residential zoning category. The mid -point for each range has been set as the maximum development threshold for each zoning category, except for projects where density bonus provisions for very low income, low income and senior affordable housing or for amenities apply as previously noted. The mid -point density was established to ensure that the expectation of development matched the General Plan for development. Densities beyond the mid -point may be permitted provided that substantial community benefits, resources, and amenities are incorporated as part of the overall concept and development proposals. (2004 Housing Element, page H-75). This limitation of density to no higher than the mid -point of each land use density range except through provision of "substantial community benefits" was identified as a prior governmental constraint that has been removed in the 2009 OVOV General Plan. The revised language will allow housing developers to achieve the maximum density that may be reasonably allowed on each site based on site opportunities and constraints, as determined by the City's reviewing authority. Another potential governmental constraint to new home construction that was addressed in the OVOV General Plan was restrictions on mixed use development. The new General Plan increases the range of opportunities for residential/commercial mixed use development in various locations throughout the City. The Mixed Use Corridor district encourages moderate - density residential units along commercial corridors as infill development, on underutilized sites, or in combination with commercial -residential mixed use projects. The Mixed Use Urban Village district was added to promote development of transit -oriented urban centers near Metrolink stations and bus transfer stations, requiring a residential component and allowing density of up to 50 dwellings per acre in combination with regional commercial and institutional uses. Prior to this language being adopted in the General Plan, mixed uses were allowed only with a conditional use permit and were not specifically encouraged or required in these areas. DRAFT May, 2011 H-100 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Residential units as components of mixed use development are also allowed in various commercial designations, with approval of a conditional use permit or master plan, as noted on Table H-6.1. The OVOV land use designations have increased allowable density in the Urban Residential land use categories, up to 30 dwellings per acre in UR-5 and up to 50 dwellings per acre in Mixed Use and Regional Commercial areas. These changes were implemented to increase opportunities for compact residential development in urban areas that are supported by services, infrastructure, and transportation, and to remove governmental constraints imposed by the more stringent density limits in the prior General Plan. The OVOV residential land use designations also provide for development of walk -able neighborhoods by allowing neighborhood -oriented commercial services within residential areas without a general plan amendment, provided that such sites are properly zoned, no greater than five acres in area, and maintain specified separation requirements from other service areas. This measure was added to the General Plan language to allow neighborhood services such as groceries, drugstores, coffee shops, mail services, and other limited commercial development within walking distance of surrounding residences. B. Land Use Controls - Zoning Zoning Districts in Unified Development Code Zoning within the City is regulated by the Unified Development Code (UDC), which includes both Title 17 (Zoning Ordinance) and Title 16 (Subdivisions) of the City's Municipal Code. Zone districts are described in UDC Chapter 17.13. The UDC is updated regularly to maintain compliance with new State statutes and current City policies. With the adoption of the OVOV General Plan Update in 2009, it may be necessary to update sections of the UDC to conform with the new General Plan. For purposes of this Housing Element, the UDC zoning language was considered in reference to the 2009 General Plan to determine whether any revisions to the zoning requirements are recommended to reduce governmental constraints to housing. Table H-6.2 shows the UDC zoning districts corresponding to the 2009 General Plan land use designations. H-101 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Table H-6.2: Residential Zoning Districts Zoning District Residential Uses Allowed* OVOV General Plan OVOV General Plan Designation Density Maximum density 0.5 NU1 - 1 dwelling dwelling units/acre; unit/20 acres Single-family dwellings on Non -Urban 1 (NU1) NU2 - 1 dwelling Residential 40,000-sq. ft. min. lots; Non -Urban 2 (NU2) unit/10 acres Estate (RE) Boarding house; Non -Urban 3 (NU3) NU3 — 1 dwelling Caretakers residence; Non -Urban 4 (NU4) unit/5 acres Residential care home; NU 4 -1 dwelling Second units. unit/2 acres Maximum density 1.0 dwelling units/acre; Single-family dwellings on Residential 40,000-sq. ft. min. lots; Very Low Boarding house; Non -Urban 5 (NU5) 1 dwelling unit/acre (RVL) Caretakers residence; Residential care home; Second units; Maximum density 2.2 dwelling units/acre; Residential Single-family dwellings on Urban Residential 1 Low RL ( ) 20,000 sq. ft. min. lots; UR1 ( ) 2 dwelling units/acre Boarding house; Caretakers residence; Maximum density 5.0 dwelling units/acre; Single-family dwellings on Residential 5,000 sq. ft. min. lots; Boarding house; Urban Residential 2 5 dwelling units/acre Suburban (RS) Caretakers residence; (UR2) Mobile home park (with CUP); Maximum density 11.0 dwelling units/acre (Valley Center 35-50); Single, 2-family and multiple family dwellings on 5,000 sq. Urban Residential 3 Residential ft. minimum. lots; Boarding house; (UR3) 6-18 dwelling units Moderate (RM) Caretakers residence; Urban Residential 4 per acre Community care facility (UR4) (with CUP); mobile home park (with CUP) DRAFT May, 2011 H-102 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Zoning District Residential Uses Allowed* OVOV General Plan OVOV General Plan Designation Density Maximum density 20.0 dwelling units/acre (35-50 in Valley Center); Single, 2-family and multi- family dwellings on 5,000 sq. Residential Medium High ft. min. lots; Boarding house; Urban Residential 5 18-30 dwelling unit (RMH) Caretakers residence; (UR5) per acre Community care facility (with CUP); mobile home park (with CUP); Maximum density 28.0 dwelling units/acre (35-50 du/ac in Valley Center); Single, 2-family and multi- family dwellings on 5,000 sq. Residential ft. min. lots; Urban Residential 5 18-30 dwelling units High (RH) Boarding house; (UR5) per acre Caretakers residence; Community care facility (CUP); Mobile home park (CUP) Maximum density 20 dwelling units/acre for sites 5 ac or greater; 11 dwellings per acre for sites less than 5 Mixed Use Corridor MXC - 11-30 dwelling Mixed Use ac; Single-family, multi -family, (MXC) units per acre Overlay (MU) live/work, lofts, Mixed Use Urban MXUV - 19-50 condominiums, apartments; Village (MXUV) dwelling units/acre 20-30% of site area to be commercial uses; Minor use permit required. Commercial Multi -family units (with CUP); Town Center Community care facility Regional 18-50 dwelling units (CTC) (with CUP); Commercial (CR) per acre Live -work units with CUP). Multi -family units (with CUP); Community Community care facility (with Commercial CUP); Community 11-30 dwelling units (CC) Live -work units (with CUP); Commercial (CC) per acre Mobile home park (with CUP Commercial Community care facility Neighborhood 6-18 dwelling units Neighborhood (with CUP); Commercial (CN) per acre CN Live -work units with CUP). H-103 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Zoning District Residential Uses Allowed* OVOV General Plan OVOV General Plan Designation Density Commercial Community care facility Office (CO) (with CUP); Business Park (BP) No residential Live -work units with CUP). Business Park Live -work units (with CUP); Business Park (BP) No residential BP Industrial (1) Industrial Live -work units (with CUP); Industrial (1) No residential Commercial IC * CUP indicates requirement for a Conditional Use Permit pursuant to UDC Section 17.03.040, approved by Planning Commission after a public hearing. Mixed Use projects require Minor Use Permit (UDC Section 17.03.040). Other uses are permitted by right in the zone district, provided that all new construction requires Development Review pursuant to UDC Section 17.03.060. Based on Table H-6.2 comparing existing zone districts with the 2009 General Plan, the following changes are recommended to the zoning ordinance: • The Mixed Use Overlay should be applied to all areas shown as Mixed Use Corridor and Mixed Use Urban Village on the General Plan Land Use Map; Residential uses and density limits within various zone districts should be modified to reflect the densities allowed in the corresponding General Plan land use designations. The Zoning Map should be amended to ensure that all areas on the map reflect the density and use provisions of the General Plan text and land use map. Specific Plans In addition to the zone districts summarized in Table H-6.2, the City's UDC contains a Specific Plan category that allows for development of large, master -planned communities in which residential unit types and densities may be flexible, as specified in the approved planning document. The Specific Plan Zone provides for the preparation of comprehensive, long-range planning documents called specific plans, provided for in State law to establish uses and standards in master -planned developments which also address infrastructure, financing, and implementation. The allowed uses and densities are specified in the adopted specific plan document. Within the City of Santa Clarita, the following specific plans incorporating residential uses have been adopted: The Porta Bella Specific Plan was approved in 1994 for the 989-acre Whittaker Bermite site, located in the center of the City. The site was used for over 80 years for production of military explosives and flares by various manufacturers before operations ended in 1987. During those years manufacturing and testing of various chemicals on the site involved use and improper disposal of hazardous materials, resulting in chemical contamination of both soil and groundwater. Directly beneath the site lies the Saugus DRAFT May, 2011 H-104 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Aquifer, a significant groundwater source for the Valley. Since manufacturing operations ended, remediation of soil and groundwater contamination (including per-chlorate) has been on -going. The Porta Bella Specific Plan proposed re -use of the property for mixed uses, including 1,244 single-family units, 1,667 multi -family units, 96 acres of commercial and office uses, 407 acres of open space, and 42 acres of recreational use. However, more work is needed to ensure site clean-up and the location of uses in an appropriate manner to avoid future health risks. In December 2005, the City of Santa Clarita adopted the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan as a foundation for facilitating redevelopment and enhancement of the area. The specific plan encompasses twenty blocks (550 acres, including Hart Park) and provides opportunities for mixed -use and transit -oriented development. Approximately 700 new dwelling units and 250,000 square feet of new commercial space are projected by the specific plan, in addition to existing housing and business in the area. Both new development and redevelopment are accommodated in the specific plan. The North Valencia Specific Plan was adopted in 1998. The project encompassed 707 acres generally bordered by Newhall Ranch Road, Bouquet Canyon Road, and Magic Mountain Parkway, east of San Francisquito Creek. The Specific Plan provided for a mix of residential and commercial uses, open space, and an industrial center. A significant segment of the Santa Clara River was preserved as open space as part of the specific plan. The residential portions of this project have since been constructed. The North Valencia Specific Plan No. 2 was adopted in 2000 for 596 acres in the northern portion of the City generally located north of Newhall Ranch Road west of McBean Parkway. The Specific Plan called for mixed use development, including residential, industrial and commercial uses. A major component of this project was preservation of open space in environmentally sensitive areas along San Francisquito Creek. The residential portions of this project have since been constructed. Development Standards In addition to controlling residential density, unit types, and lot sizes, the Unified Development Code and various specific plan documents contain requirements for residential construction that may impose constraints on the creation of new housing opportunities. These requirements are called development standards, and typically include restrictions on building height, minimum yard and open space areas, and parking. State law requires that the Housing Element review various development standards to determine if they constitute a governmental constraint on new housing development. Table H-6.3 provides a summary of the City's development standards as set forth in the UDC. As described above, specific plans and planned development projects may have different standards established through the approval process for each project. H-105 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Table H-6.3: Residential Development Standards Standard Unified Development Code Requirements Allowed lot sizes range from 5,000 to 40,000 sq. ft., except that RE Lot size minimum lot size is two gross acres. Lots may be smaller in the SP zone with approved entitlement; the City has allowed lots of 2200 sq. ft. in specific plans. Lot dimensions Minimum width: 50 — 100 ft. (cul-de-sac width: 40 ft); May be reduced as part of approved SP. Side yard: 5 ft. (reverse corner lot 20 ft.) Rear yard: 15 ft. Setbacks Front yard: 20 ft. Mixed use: 5 ft.-15 ft. setback from property line Lot coverage No requirements other than setbacks and open sace Building height 2 stories, 35 ft. in residential zones, except with approval of CUP; 55 feet in mixed use areas, except with approval of CUP. Dwelling unit size, No requirements Floor Area Ratio Studio: 200 sq. ft. 1 bedroom unit: 300 sq. ft. 2+ bedroom units: 400 sq. ft. Open space Single-family detached or town home: 650 sq. ft. 50% of open space to be in rear yards; Recreational facilities required for multi -family projects; Mixed Use Overlay requires 200 sq. ft./unit of open sace. 250 cu. ft. of storage for multi -family unit; 1 trash enclosure for each 10 units; Architecture and No metal siding for structures; site design Minimum roof slope 2:12; Screening required for all equipment and utilities; Roof -top equipment prohibited on single-family structures. DRAFT May, 2011 H-106 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Standard Unified Development Code Requirements Single-family unit: 2 enclosed spaces; Two-family units: 2 spaces/unit; Multi -family units: 1.5 spaces for studios; 1.75 spaces for one -bedroom; 2 spaces for two -plus bedrooms; plus 1 guest space/2 units for projects with over 3 units. All spaces to be enclosed (except guest parking). Mobile home park: 2 spaces per unit plus one guest per 2 units (may be uncovered); Senior/disabled: 0.5 space/unit with plot plan review and deed restriction; Parking Mixed use: same as above except 1-bedroom: 1 space/unit and allowance for shared guest spaces; Specific plans: parking may be reduced; Boarding house: 5 spaces per sleeping room plus 2; Residential services/care home = 2 spaces; Second unit: 1 space/2 bedrooms; Residential health care: 0.5 space/unit; Community care: 0.5 space per room; Shared parking allowed with a CUP; Tandem parking allowed in multi -family developments with a Minor Use Permit. Permitted within Mobile Home Park Zone by right, provided the following requirements are met: Minimum lot area: 3 acres Minimum space area: 1,500 sq. ft. Minimum space width: 30 ft. Minimum lot area for each mobile home space: 3000 sq. ft. Mobile home Maximum building height: 2 stories or 25 ft. parks Front yard, street side yard setback: 20 ft. Side yard setback: 5 ft. Rear yard setback: 15 ft. Screening required from adjacent streets. Mobile home parks in other zones require approval of conditional use permit by Planning Commission at public hearing; discretionary review with conditions of approval Secondary access required for any development of 150 or more Access dwelling units (75 or more in wild -land fire areas). Further restrictions for substandard road width. (This requirement applies to subdivisions only) Storm -water On -site storm -water runoff treatment is required for projects of 10 or treatment more units. (This requirement applies to subdivisions only.) The minimum UDC requirements for residential uses summarized in Table H-6.3 have been determined by the City to be necessary to protect the public health, safety, and welfare of City residents. The requirements for minimum lot size, dimensions, and setbacks are necessary to prevent overcrowding, and flexibility is allowed through the planned development process to create smaller lots provided the design is approved. Minimum requirements for open space and maximum lot coverage ensure that residents have adequate access to outdoor living space, gardens, patios, sunlight, and fresh air. On -site parking requirements are needed to ensure that vehicle parking does not clog neighborhood streets, and that residents have convenient access H-107 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan to their vehicles; parking reductions are allowed for senior and disabled housing units, and allowance for shared parking is made through the planned development and specific plan processes. In addition, shared parking is allowed with approval of a conditional use permit. Requirements for adequate emergency access and treatment of storm -water are necessary to protect public safety and water quality. As with conventional residential dwellings, the standards for mobile home parks are designed to ensure adequate open space and parking. The architectural standards for residential uses are minimal, and include no metal siding, pitched roofs, adequate trash enclosures, and equipment screening. Many of the required development standards have been put in place for retention of a quality of life for both existing and future residents or they have been put in place for public safety reasons. However, Program H5.4 includes flexibility for a number of development standards including open space and building height. These standards are typical zoning requirements found throughout California; no unusual standards that pose a significant constraint to the production of housing were identified. Special Standards and Requirements Some portions of the planning area are subject to development constraints due to the presence of hillsides and ridgelines, flood potential, seismic hazards, environmental issues, or other special circumstance. Special development standards may apply to housing in such areas, in order to protect public safety and property values. The following special development standards are established by the City's Unified Development Code and adopted specific plans: DRAFT May, 2011 H-108 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-6.4: Special Development Standards for Housing Applicability Special Requirements and Standards • Applies to any site with average slope of 10% or more; • Requires Permit for Hillside Development Review; • Director approval for minor projects, Planning Commission review of major projects; • Application must include colored simulations and detailed Hillside areas studies for geotechnical, soil, archeological and biological conditions, tree studies, slope analysis, and grading information; • Detailed architecture and landscaping standards required; • Review is discretionary, with approval based on 8 findings; • Permitted residential density is based on slope density calculations that reduce density as slopes increase. • Requires Ridgeline Alteration Permit approved by City Ridgeline Preservation Council; Overlay Zone • May reduce density and/or increase cost of development; • Discretionary permit required with conditions of approval • Requires same findings as conditional use permit. • Must comply with FEMA requirements; • Requires approval by City Engineer based on hydrology Floodplains study; • May reduce density/intensity of use; • No development allowed in floodway portion of floodplain. Significant Ecological • Requires biological studies and mitigations; Areas . May reduce density/intensitydensity/intensity of use. • Oak Tree Preservation Ordinance requires preservation of significant trees on site; • Requires Oak Tree Permit; Oak Tree Preservation . May require Planning Commission approval; • Mitigation may involve replanting or tree preservation; • May result in increased costs and/or reduced residential density. • Requires development to recognize existing mineral and oil resources; • Establishes criteria for development in areas with these state Mineral and Oil identified resources; Conservation Overlay . Allows for removal of the commodity while establishing (MOCA) development standards for the health and safety of nearby residents; • May result in reduction of residential density based upon location of existing oil wells or quarries. Downtown Newhall • Design guidelines to maintain historic character of area; Specific Plan • Must conform to form -based zoning requirements of specific Ian. Happy Valley, Placerita & Sand Canyon . Special standards adopted to help maintain rural character of Special Standards area. Districts H-109 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan As an example of how these special development standards act to restrict residential density, the City approved three projects in which density was reduced due to the Hillside Ordinance. In the Keystone project, the developer proposed 979 units and the project was approved for 499 units, a reduction of 49 percent. The Golden Valley Ranch project originally proposed 847 units and was approved for 499 units, a reduction of 41 percent. The Beneda project proposed 60 units and was approved for 30, a reduction of 50 percent. Despite potential reductions in residential density within these areas, however, the City has determined that the special designations are needed to protect significant environmental resources and protect public safety. Hillsides, ridgelines, and floodplains must be protected from over -development in order to prevent erosion, flooding, damage from landslides, and preserve scenic views. Preservation of significant oak trees is defined in the General Plan as a community goal because these trees are important biological resources. Downtown Newhall has been identified as a significant historical resource area because of the large number of historic buildings and sites within this district; the specific plan is intended to maintain community character in keeping with the historic nature of the area. Therefore, no changes to these special zoning requirements are proposed, because adequate sites have been identified to meet the City's housing goals in other areas of the City that are not subject to these constraints. C. Application Review Requirements Residential developers and builders seeking to construct new housing look for assurance that cities provide an "even playing field" and establish clear requirements that do not change over time. An "even playing field" means that all applicants are subject to the same rules, and "clear requirements" ensure that multiple levels of review by various entities within a jurisdiction do not require costly revisions after the project has been determined to meet agency requirements. Housing developers bear many up -front costs in bringing a project to completion, including land costs, interest on loans, architecture and engineering costs, preparation of environmental documents and technical studies, application processing fees, and environmental review fees. The development of new housing projects can be constrained if agencies add new requirements or fees during the review process. State law requires that housing elements review the processing requirements for new housing applications to determine if governmental constraints limit production of new housing. In this process, it is also useful to review the steps taken to ensure an even playing field and clarity of requirements for all applicants. A major consideration for applicants is whether their application is processed as a ministerial or discretionary review. A ministerial project may be approved or denied based on the project's compliance with applicable code requirements, and does not require the discretionary judgment of a reviewing authority based on policies or guidelines that require interpretation. A discretionary process, on the other hand, gives the reviewing authority the options to approve, conditionally approve, or deny the project based on required findings. For the applicant, a discretionary process may hold more uncertainty in terms of whether the project will be approved, as well as unknown costs of any conditions added to the project as part of the approval process. The California Subdivision Map Act (Sections 66410-66499.58 of the Government Code), Permit Streamlining Act (Government Code Section 65920 et seq), and Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code Sections 21000-21177) establish timelines for processing development applications to ensure that applicants are not unduly delayed by public agencies during the review process. The City's Unified Development Code is consistent with these timelines. In order to inform applicants early in the process about the City's development review DRAFT May, 2011 H-110 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element process, the City offers an optional meeting with the Development Review Committee to review preliminary applications; the cost of this process is applied to the formal application review fee. The City has also prepared informational materials to guide applicants in how to process various applications, such as Development Review, Conditional Use Permit, Variance, and Tentative Subdivision Map. Application requirements for various types of residential development have been codified in the Unified Development Code, and are summarized in Table H-6.5. Application review fees are limited by State law to the amount needed to pay for any staff and/or consultants' actual time spent reviewing each application to ensure compliance with code requirements. Application processing fees in the City of Santa Clarita have been established by Resolution 07-52, which was based on a fee study completed in 2004 and updated annually based on CPI (most recently in 2008). A new fee study is currently being prepared. The fee for each type of application is also included in Table H-6.5. Table H-6.5: Application Processing Requirements Application Type Application fee Description $915; applies to Optional process designed to inform Preliminary review formal application applicants of City application processing when filed requirements and development standards. Takes 4-6 weeks. Staff review and Planning Commission Tentative parcel map $14,325 approval of subdivision to create four or fewer residential lots. Discretionary. $5,625 plus $199 for easement checking plus $117 for Engineering review and approval by City Final parcel map monument inspection Council. Ministerial, based on compliance and $27 per with the tentative parcel map. monument. Staff and Planning Commission review of subdivision to create 5 or more residential lots. Discretionary. Initial approval 2 years, 1-10 lots - $16,337; with up to two discretionary 1-year extensions up to 25 lots add approved by Planning Director. Required $88/lot; findings address zoning consistency, site Tentative tract map up to 50 lots add suitability, environmental damage, and $108/lot; consistency with easements. Development over 50 lots add review required for home construction on $117/lot approved subdivision. Sales office and model home complex require temporary use permit, approved for maximum of two years, and aved parking. H-111 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Application Type Application fee Description $5,655 for 1-10 lots; $8,605 for 11-50 lots; $8,258 plus $74 for each lot over 50; Plus $199 for Engineering review and approval by City Final tract map easement checking Council. Ministerial, based on compliance plus $117 for with the tentative tract map. monument inspection and $27 per monument CEQA review — initial $2047 plus Required for any project resulting in a study consultant's costs (if negative declaration or mitigated negative an declaration. CEQA review _ $29,330 deposit; Environmental Impact costs of staff time Required for any project that has the potential Report (EIR) plus consultant costs to significantly impact the environment. California Department $1,876.75 for negative declaration; Required by the State for any project subject of Fish and Game fee $2,606.75 for EIR to CEQA review County of Los Angeles $50 Fee for posting environmental determination Administrative permit $504 Requires approved by Planning Director Requires approved by Planning Director for all new permitted structures and initiation of all permitted uses; ensures compliance of site Development review plan with all applicable zoning requirements. (Site plan review) $2,833 Director may add conditions of approval; require improvements, and security to ensure completion. Approval for one year with a one-year extension available. No specific findings required. Conditional use permit $10,946 Requires approval by Planning Commission. (CUP) Required findings address site suitability, land use compatibility, detrimental impacts, and CUP with no new $7,121 code compliance. Initial approval for two construction years with one-year extension available. Requires approval by Planning Director or Planning Commission for deviations of up to Adjustment $1,249 20% of standard requirements. Initial approval for two years with one-year extension available. Requires approval by Planning Commission at public hearing. Required findings address special circumstances, property rights, Variance $6,259 detrimental impacts, special privilege, and consistency of use with General Plan and zoning. Initial approval for two years with one-year extension available. DRAFT May, 2011 H-112 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Application Type Application fee Description Non -conforming use Requires approval by Planning Director for or structure $1,320 modifications to non -conforming lots or structures. $17,598 deposit; Requires public hearings by Planning Zone change Actual cost of staff Commission and City Council; findings time require consistency with General Plan, UDC and other development policies $17,598 deposit; Requires public hearings by Planning General Plan Actual cost of staff Commission and City Council; findings Amendment time require consistency with General Plan, UDC and other development policies Requires public hearings by Planning Commission and City Council; findings are Master Plan $10,946 the same as conditional use permit Approval time limits are indicated in the approved master plan. Requires preparation of comprehensive long- $17,598 deposit; range plan for land use, development Specific Plan Actual cost of staff standards, infrastructure and public facilities, time financing, and implementation, to be approved by the Planning Commission and Cit Council. Required on some developments to insure compliance with the approved master plan, Architectural design $915 CUP, or specific plan. Approval is generally Review by the Planning Director. Approval for one year with a one-year extension available. No specific findings required. Requires approval by Planning Director for minor projects and Planning Commission for major projects. Application requires submittal of colored simulations, detailed reports for Hillside development $2 657 geotechnical, soils, archeological resources, Review biology, trees, slopes and grading. Eight findings required, along with detailed standards for grading, architecture, landscaping. Approval for two years with a one-year extension available. Requires approval by Planning Director for all new developments to ensure compliance of landscape plan with all applicable zoning Landscape plan $903 requirements. Director may add conditions of review approval; require improvements, and security to ensure completion. Approval for one year with a one-year extension available. No specific findings required. H-113 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Application Type Application fee Description Requires approval by Planning Director or Planning Commission. Required findings Minor use permit $2,452 address site suitability, land use compatibility, detrimental impacts, and code compliance. Initial approval for two years with one-year extension available. Requires review by Planning Commission and approval by City Council. Required Ridgeline alteration $10946 findings address site suitability, land use permit , compatibility, detrimental impacts, and code compliance. Initial approval for two years with one-year extension available. Trimming $94; Requires approval by Planning Director or Removals and Planning Commission. Required findings Oak tree preservation encroachments: address site compatibility and detrimental permit 1-5 trees impacts to oak trees, a protected species. 6-plus treeess $1,411 Initial approval for two years with one-year extension available. Typically plan check time -frames are 6-8 Varies based on weeks and can vary based on plan check Building plan check project valuation activity. Reviews construction plans for compliance with building, plumbing, electrical, fire, and mechanical and conservation codes. Varies from $1,411 to Review rough grading plans for compliance Grading plan check $4,537 based on with approved plans and applicable codes. cubic yards Standard Urban Storm Varies from $1,202 to Ensures compliance with all federal, state Water Mitigation Plan $2,484 based on and local storm water requirements for Review ro ect size surface water leaving the project site. Because the application review fees reflect the actual time and cost of review, they are not considered to be an unusual constraint to housing development. However, as an incentive to promote production of affordable housing, the City should consider reducing or deferring payment of such fees when it is deemed to be appropriate. A variety of housing unit types are allowed in various zone districts, subject to specified review requirements established in the Unified Development Code. Table H-6.6 describes the review process required for housing unit types in various zones throughout the City. DRAFT May, 2011 H-114 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-6.6: Planning Applications Required for Various Housing Types Housing Type Planning Requirements Single-family home on existing lot Allowed in all residential zones with approval of Development Review. Two-family home on existing lot Allowed in RM, RMH, and RH zones with approval of Development Review. Allowed in RM, RMH, and RH with Development Multi -family home Review; in CTC and CC with a Conditional Use Permit. Community care facility (residential Allowed in RM. RMH, RH, and commercial zones facility for elderly/disabled, with meals, with Conditional Use Permit. housekeeping and activities Residential care home (residence for Allowed within existing structure in all residential up to 6 persons) zones with no review. If new construction, requires Development Review Boarding house (dwelling with Allowed in all residential zones with Development bedrooms rented to 5 or more persons; Review may include meals) Residential health care facility Allowed in RM, RMH, RH, CTC, CC, CN with (convalescent homes for elderly, sick, Conditional Use Permit. disabled) Mobile home parks allowed in RS, RM, RMH, RH, CC, MHP with Conditional Use Permit; Individual mobile homes allowed on residential lots Mobile homes, factory -built housing if units are less than 10 years old, on permanent foundations, outside of "special interest" areas, with roof eaves of at least 16 inches, roof slopes of at least 2:12., and non-metal siding. Agricultural worker housing No special requirements, other than those applied to structure type. Allowed on parcels of 20,000 square feet or greater or twice the required lot area, whichever is less. May be attached or detached. Floor area may not Second unit on a residential lot with a exceed 50% of primary unit; requires 1 parking primary dwelling unit space per 2 bedrooms, located outside of setback; architecture must be compatible with primary unit, and separate entrance provided. A non - discretionary Administrative Permit is required. Single room occupancy Not referenced in UDC Processing and Permit Procedures The application review processes and development standards described in Table H-6.6 are needed to allow staff to determine that each project complies with applicable code requirements and development policies of the City. H-115 DRAFT May, 2011 Housina Element Citv of Santa Clarita General Plan Single-family residences are permitted by right in all residential zones subject to the approval of a Development Review Permit. The purpose of the Development Review is for the Director of Community Development to ensure that all applicable sections of the General Plan and UDC are met. The Development Review process generally takes anywhere from 2-6 weeks from initial submittal to approval. This process may run concurrent with other required review processing. Multi —family residences are permitted by right in the RM (Residential Moderate), RMH (Residential Medium High) and the RH (Residential High) zones subject to the approval of a Development Review Permit. Multi -family residences can also be constructed in commercial zones with the approval of a CUP. The purpose of the Development Review is for the Director of Community Development to ensure that all applicable sections of the General Plan and UDC are met. The Development Review process generally takes anywhere from 2-6 weeks from initial submittal to approval. The Conditional Use Permit generally takes around 4-6 months, and is subject to the decision of the Planning Commission, based on the findings identified in Chapter 17 of the UDC. Due to the unique topography and other natural features of the Santa Clarita Valley, there are a number other development influences that could impact development processing. Hillside development density increases as applicants follow the findings identified under the Hillside Development Ordinance. The hillside projects are subject to the approval of the Planning Commission in order to ensure the safety of residents while preserving the natural aesthetic of Santa Clarita's hillsides. They must also meet the requirements of the Los Angeles County Fire Department for development in wildland fire zones and the requirements of the California Department of Fish and Game due to the number of unique species of fauna and flora. In addition, the Santa Clarita Valley includes areas with natural rivers, streams and creeks which are subject to floodway standards for public safety. All developments must take these natural features into consideration when addressing these flooding concerns during the permitting process. D. Development Impact Fees, Dedication, and Improvement Requirements Develoament Impact Fees New housing within a community can put a strain on existing facilities and resources. As each new dwelling unit is constructed, more rainwater flows into flood control channels and more vehicles use the streets. When families move into new homes more children are enrolled in schools, play in the parks, and go to the library; more homes must be protected from fire and crime; and more residents must be provided with clean water to drink and sanitary sewers to conduct wastewater to treatment plants. It would be unfair to existing residents in a city to expect them to build and maintain such facilities and services to support new residents who move into their community. Instead, the builder of each new home is expected to pay for a fair share of the facilities and services that will be used by future residents of that home. The method of collecting this fair share contribution to public facilities and services is often through the adoption of development impact fees. State law provides for the adoption of development impact fees to fund the construction of public infrastructure, provided that certain requirements are met. One requirement is that the DRAFT May, 2011 H-116 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element fees must be calculated based on a thorough analysis of actual facility needs and costs. Another requirement is that no dwelling unit will be charged for facilities that it will not use, or for more than its fair share of the cost of new facilities. In addition, the law requires that money collected in the form of development impact fees must be spent for the purpose for which it was collected within five years, and that fee revenue not be commingled with other funds. Impact fees are collected to pay for capital facility costs, which may include land acquisition, design and engineering, and construction; however, the costs of operation and maintenance are not eligible for funding by impact fees. The courts have upheld the constitutionality of development impact fees, provided that fees are established on the principles known as nexus and proportionality. Nexus refers to the principle that fees must have a direct relationship to the services and facilities used by the new development, and proportionality refers to the principle that the amount of the fee must be based on the actual impact of the new development. The nexus and proportionality of impact fees is established through detailed studies of facility needs, construction costs, and the impact of each new dwelling unit on the facility or service. In the City of Santa Clarita, development impact fees have been adopted for City facilities as well as by other agencies to fund regional infrastructure improvements. The type and amount of impact fees are summarized in Table H-6.7. Table H-6.7: Development Impact Fees Charged on New Residential Development Type of Impact Fee Applicability Amount for Typical Dwelling Requirement for payment of fee or land dedication is applied at time of tentative map approval; for projects of less than 50 units, fee is required; for 50 or more, land and/or fee may be required. Dedication may include cost of improvements; fees include 20% for cost of Approximately Park Fees improvements. 0 per dwelling Fee is calculated based on fair market value of unit. Varies by area unit. land at 3 acres/1000 people generated, plus 20%. Credit allowed for private open space up to 30%. Dedication or fee payment is required prior to final map recordation or building permit issuance (whichever occurs first). Required by the City to be paid prior to final map recordation or building permit issuance (whichever occurs first), in order to fund any bridges or thoroughfares serving the project Major Bridge and that are not otherwise improved by the Average $17,395 per Thoroughfare Fees developer; set by City Council based on cost dwelling unit and area of benefit: Bouquet Canyon = $15,970 East side = $16,530 Valencia - $19,650 Via Princessa = $17,430 Traffic signal Required by the City to be paid prior to timing fee occupancy, in lieu of synchronizing signals $300 per dwelling unit affected by the project H-117 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Type of Impact Fee Applicability Amount for Typical Dwelling Required by Santa Clarita Transit to be paid at time of final map recordation or building permit Transit fee issuance (whichever occurs first); fees pay for $200 per dwelling unit the procurement and construction of infrastructure improvements to the transit system. Required by school districts to be paid prior to the issuance of a building permit to fund new school facilities. School fees Castaic Union SD: $2.47/sq.ft $15,000 per dwelling Newhall Unified SD: $2.47/sq.ft unit Saugus Unified SD: $3.18 - $3.99/sq.ft Sulphur Springs Unif. SD: $3.18 - $3.99/sq.ft Wm S. Hart Unif SD: $2.47 — 3.99/s .ft. Required by Los Angeles County Public Library Facilities and Library to be paid prior to the issuance of a $687/dwelling unit Technology Fee building permit to fund new library facilities and capital equipment Required by Los Angeles County Sheriff prior $467/single-family Law Enforcement Fee to the issuance of a building permit to fund unit station facilities and capital equipment $337/multi-familyunit Required by Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts to be paid prior to the issuance of a building permit to fund treatment plant expansion. Sewer connection fee Single-family residence - $3,330 $3,330 per SFR unit Duplex — $3,996/du $1,948 per MFR unit Triplex — $5,994/du Fourplex — $7,992/du Condominium — $2,498/du MFR over 5 du — $1,398/du Required by Castaic Lake Water Agency to be paid prior to the issuance of a building permit to fund water treatment and distribution facilities. Single-family residence with 3 bedrooms: $4711-5576 Add per bedroom $471-558 $7,500 per dwelling Water connection fees Add per 1000 sq. ft. additional flat landscape: unit $857-1015 Add per 1000 sq. ft. additional slope landscape: $366-434 MFR with 2 bedroom: $2371-2807 Add per additional bedroom: $471-558 MFR 1-bed or studio: $1900-2249 Total impact fees for Typical single-family home: 2,500 square feet Single-family: typical dwelling: T ical multi-familyhome: 1,000 square feet, $63,435 DRAFT May, 2011 H-118 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Type of Impact Fee Applicability Amount for Typical Dwelling 2-bedroom apartment Multi -family: $46,165 Source: City of Santa Clarita Community Development Department All of the impact fees adopted by the City of Santa Clarita have been calculated based on detailed analysis of service needs and projections, planned facility expansions, costs of these expansions, and the nexus and proportionality of each dwelling unit with respect to needed infrastructure. The fees are required to ensure that adequate infrastructure and facilities are built in a timely manner and are available to support new development. As shown on Table H-6.8, the City's impact fees are not significantly higher than those adopted by Los Angeles County for the unincorporated portions of the Santa Clarita Valley. Fees applied by other agencies are also supported by required studies, and apply to other cities in Los Angeles County as well. These fees are not under the purview of the City, although some of them may be collected by the City on behalf of the various districts. For purposes of comparison, the following table summarizes fees applied to similar typical units in comparable agencies with land use jurisdiction in north Los Angeles County. 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L O W cu�— cB �_ cn > •cB cn LL , � ca O w U ca 0) U c Q >1 Q Q •a) �' �iLmm N L a) L a) N Z) s_ ca ._ L //^� U V J CB > > N g O L L cB L (u Q� DD�LLLL -71 2>Qcn.��a�� W co O O N U _ ._ C L a) E cu cB � U 0 Q O U o C: U d U a) N c6 O _0 Q a) E cB 7FD d Z 0 C _ ca co O N 0 N 1 ce a) CO)E 0 � Qcu 00 Q a) 0 0 N O E a) � E cu a) a W >_ O O N c U U U 2 0 c O = J C�f 4- CU O 0 �U cu 00 d O 0 s_ N a) a) E C_ cu r o ate) 0 Up N U 0) >� N as LL NQ U C N J " 0 cu 0 CU 0 cu COC/) City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Of concern to the residential builder is not only the amount of fees to be paid, but also the time at which fee payment is due. For those fees that are required to be paid prior to issuance of building permits, the builder must be prepared to fund the cost of infrastructure many months prior to sale of the home. Therefore, fees which are required earlier in the process must often be financed through loans, for which interest must be paid until the homes are sold. One way agencies can assist builders to provide new residential units is to allow deferral of impact fees until later in the development process or upon sale of the homes, when funds will be available to pay for construction costs and fees. However, agencies are often reluctant to allow fee deferral because it may be harder to collect fees if the builder fails to complete the project for some reason, or if the builder sells the product to homeowners without paying the fees. It is suggested that, where appropriate, the City consider fee deferrals to promote construction of affordable units when payment conditions are part of an affordable housing agreement or other approved form of surety. Dedication Requirements In addition to impact fees, new development is required to dedicate land where needed to construct infrastructure improvements to support the residents it generates. These requirements are most commonly applied to dedication of land along street frontages for additional right-of- way needed to widen roads in order to carry additional traffic. All new housing projects are required to dedicate full street right-of-way and construct improvements within the interior of the project. Where the project boundary abuts a public street, right-of-way dedication is required along the project frontage, and street improvements are required to be constructed. Street right-of-way may also be used for placement of sewers, storm drains, and utility easements. Other dedication requirements may include land or easements for drainage facilities to convey storm -water through the development to approved off -site channels. As with impact fees, the requirement for land dedication and improvements must meet the tests of nexus and proportionality; that is, the requirements placed on the project must be directly related to the project's impacts on infrastructure systems, and must represent a fair share contribution based on the project's share of the facility needs. The requirement to dedicate right-of-way and/or easements for public improvements to support development is typical of all California cities and is specified as a subdivision requirement by the State Subdivision Map Act. There are no unusual requirements in the City of Santa Clarita for dedication of land to construct infrastructure. Construction of Improvements In addition to payment of impact fees and requirements to dedicate land for public improvements, housing developers are also required to construct all of the public improvements within their project boundaries, and those off -site improvements needed to support their housing project. Examples of the types of improvements required of developers include the following, along with the relevant section of the Unified Development Code: Street improvements, including curb and gutter for lots less than 20,000 sq ft.; street trees; bus stops & shelters; street maintenance fee for slurry seal; and enhanced pedestrian paving (16.21.070 and 17.15.060) • Walls, fences, water mains, sanitary sewers, storm drains (16.21.090) H-121 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan • Water mains and fire hydrants (16.21.100) • Fencing along drainage courses (16.21.120) • Street lighting for (16.21.130) • Street trees (16.21.150) • Parkway planting strips (16.21.160) • Sidewalks (16.21.170) • Underground of utility lines less than 34 KV (17.15.020) Imaact of Reauirements on Homebuilders In order to evaluate the effect on homebuilders of the requirements for impact fees and dedications, staff contacted three homebuilders who have done a substantial amount of construction within the City. Staff asked them whether fees and dedication requirements represented an impediment to construction of new housing in the city. In response, these builders indicated that while the fees add to the cost of the residential units, the community benefits provided by the fees assist in the marketing of the units, and the cost of the fees is ultimately recovered in the home price. In addition, the developers of larger development projects typically construct many of the regional improvements needed to support their projects, and are therefore eligible for fee credits commensurate with construction costs. The effects of the impact fees and other development requirements are more onerous for developers of small projects, in which it is not possible to allocate costs over a large number of units. E. City Incentives to Promote Affordable Housing Production State law (Government Code 65915) requires cities to grant incentives to promote affordable housing development, provided that a minimum number of affordable units are constructed and restricted by covenant to remain affordable for specified periods of time. In addition, State law requires that cities provide density bonuses for affordable housing production, up to a maximum of 35 percent over the units allowed by the General Plan Land Use Map. For example, if a housing project is to be built on a 10-acre site and the General Plan allows a density of 18 units per acre, the General Plan density would be 180 units. A density bonus of 35 percent would yield another 63 dwelling units, for a total of 243 units allowed on the site. In exchange for the additional units, the housing developer would ensure that a certain percent of the units will be priced at affordable levels and will remain affordable over the time period required by the law. The City of Santa Clarita has complied with State requirements to provide incentives and density bonuses to promote affordable housing construction by incorporating these provisions into the Unified Development Code. In addition, the City has adopted other incentives to promote development that meets General Plan goals and objectives. Incentives offered by the City are described below. DRAFT May, 2011 H-122 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element • Density bonuses for affordable housing are allowed in the RM, RMH, RH, SP, and CTC zones per State law (up to 35%); requires written statement as to how concessions are necessary to provide for affordable housing, and adoption of an a affordability agreement ensuring maintenance of affordability; • Fee waivers or reductions may be granted for affordable projects with "significant community benefits"; • Restriction to mid -point of density range does not apply to affordable housing or senior housing (note that the restriction to mid -point of density range was removed by the 2009 One Valley One Vision General Plan Update); • "Amenities Density Bonus" available with conditional use permit in RM, RMH, RH, and Valley Center Overlay, and various specific plans; • All projects are eligible for expedited review process; • Incentives for Mixed Use include expedited plan check, increased density, and reduced parking requirements. Conclusion In order to promote production of more housing units, including affordable units, the City will review its governmental constraints and identify areas in which changes might be made. For example, the following measures are recommended for consideration: 1. Allowing deferral of certain fee payments until later in the construction process, provided that assurance of payment is guaranteed; 2. Granting density bonuses in excess of minimum State requirements for projects that meet City goals and objectives; 3. Providing for parking reductions for affordable units, based on a study that shows that low-income households have fewer cars. F. City Codes and Enforcement of Housing Provisions All new housing in the City is required to conform to the 2007 California Building, Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical Codes as amended by the City in 2008, which may be amended from time to time in the future. In addition, new construction must adhere to Title 24, Part 6, of the California Code of Regulations, California's energy efficiency standards. In addition to requiring code compliance for new construction, the City has the authority and responsibility to ensure that owners of existing housing units maintain their units in a safe and sanitary condition. The City has adopted the Neighborhood Preservation Code and enforces the provisions of this code through the Community Preservation Division of the Community Development Department. While most Community Preservation actions taken by the Division are initiated in response to complaints, the Division takes pro -active measures to regularly inspect certain areas of the City in which code compliance issues are known to occur. Conducting windshield surveys of these areas informs staff of potential problems such as H-123 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan vacant structures which are unsecured, broken windows or doors, poorly maintained landscaping, accumulation of trash and debris, deteriorated roofs, and general lack of maintenance. When identified, these problems are addressed through enforcement actions which progress through notification and voluntary compliance to possible citation, if the situation is not addressed. Structures may become substandard for various reasons such as fire or disaster events, damage from water leaks or falling trees, lack of maintenance, or general deterioration. When a structure is damaged to the point that it is not economically feasible to repair, the structure may be declared a nuisance and the enforcement agency may order its vacation and demolition. Section 17980 of the California Health and Safety Code contains procedures for the abatement of substandard buildings. Subsection (13)(2) of this statute requires that, as part of the decision to require vacation of a substandard building, the enforcement agency "give full consideration to the needs for housing as expressed in the local jurisdiction's housing element." The City's Building Official is responsible for deeming a property as substandard, based on its lack of compliance with minimum code standards. The City's procedure requires that the property owner be notified of the City's requirement to repair substandard structures. Only in the case of structures that are deemed to be an imminent threat to public safety is the order given to demolish the structure. In keeping with State requirements, a policy has been added to this element requiring that consideration be given to housing needs as part of any decision to order the removal of substandard dwelling units. The City has established various funding programs to assist eligible low-income owners in improving deficient properties, in order to preserve and maintain housing units in a safe condition. As part of its commitment to preserving and improving affordable housing stock, the City will continue to fund the following three programs: the Residential Rehabilitation Grant Program, the Property Rehabilitation Grant program, and the Handyworker Program. All of these programs target low- and moderate -income homeowners who need larger and more costly repairs than they can generally afford. These programs are more fully described below. • The Residential Rehabilitation program provides grants of up to $5,000 per household for major home repairs such as heating units and roof replacement, which require the services of licensed contractors. The City has provided 38 units with Residential Rehabilitation grants in fiscal year 2007-08, and plans to provide 45 such grants in fiscal year 2008-09. • The Property Rehabilitation Grant program provides grants of up to $1,000 per household for property repairs such as walls, fences, and gates; brush clean-up; tree trimming; and repairs to outbuildings and accessory structures, including detached garages. The City has provided eight of these grants in fiscal year 2007-08, and plans to provide five such grants in fiscal year 2008-09. DRAFT May, 2011 H-124 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element The Handyworker Program is operated by the Santa Clarita Valley Committee on Aging though a grant of CDBF Funds from the City. The Program provides grants of up to $2,500 per household to complete minor repairs which can be completed by unlicensed persons, with most repairs performed by handy -worker staff at the Santa Clarita Valley Committee on Aging. Typical handy -worker repairs may include, but are not limited to, roofs, windows, floors, walls, doors, heating and air conditioning units, and electrical systems. Safety upgrades, disabled access, and energy -efficiency improvements are also provided as needed. The City has provided 100 households with these grants in fiscal year 2007-08, and plans to grant an additional 100 such grants in fiscal year 2008- 09. G. Housing Issues for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs Federal and State laws protect the rights of persons with disabilities to ensure that they have the same opportunities as able-bodied persons in terms of fulfilling the basic human needs of access, employment, provision of goods and services, and housing. The term "disabilities" is broadly defined by these laws, and can include both physical limitations and mental illness. In addition, addiction to drugs or alcohol has been defined as a disability. Some persons with special needs may not be disabled, but may be unable to provide adequate housing for themselves and their families due to other circumstances beyond their control. Women and children who leave abusive home environments often need housing on a temporary basis while the mother seeks education and/or employment opportunities. Persons may become homeless due to death of a spouse or parent, divorce, loss of employment, bankruptcy or foreclosure, or other unexpected situation. There are a variety of options available to house persons with special needs. One of the least costly and simplest options is to allow a group of such persons to occupy an existing dwelling unit as a household unit. In the past, many city codes prevented such a solution by requiring that dwelling units be occupied only by "family" units in which the occupants were related by kinship or marriage. Like most other cities, the City of Santa Clarita does not include this restriction in its Unified Development Code, which defines "family" as "one or more individuals living together as a single housekeeping unit in a single dwelling, or persons living in a licensed residential facility of six or fewer residents". State law provides that up to six residents may occupy a dwelling unit as a residential care home, without discretionary approval. The City complies with this State requirement by allowing group homes with six or fewer residents in all residential zones, provided that if new construction is proposed then Development Review is required to ensure zoning compliance of the site plan. These homes are often occupied by disabled persons or persons recovering from addiction. Residential Health Care Facility for more than six residents are allowed in the RM, RMH, RH, and commercial zones with approval of a conditional use permit. These facilities typically include provision of meals, housekeeping, and various activities for residents, and are often designed for the elderly or disabled persons. There are no specific sitting or separation requirements for Residential Health Care Facilities. Parking reductions are allowed for facilities serving elderly and disabled residents. Another means of providing for housing needs of disabled persons involves allowing the retrofit of existing housing units in order to address special needs, such as by providing for construction of wheelchair ramps, installation of grab -bars, widening of doorways, lowering of counters, and other alterations. In order to assist persons with special needs to alter their homes for H-125 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan accessibility, the City's Building and Safety Division will make provisions for a process that lets property owners apply for reasonable accommodation to make accessibility adaptations (see Program H 5.1 in the Goals, Objectives and Programs Section). Within the City of Santa Clarita, a temporary homeless shelter facility has operated during winter months for over ten years. The Winter Emergency Shelter operates from December through March and receives most of its funding from the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority. The facility is managed by local non-profit organizations which provide staffing and oversight. The City supports the operation of the shelter through assistance with sitting and provision of grant funds for operations and management. State law also requires that the needs of families for safe and affordable daycare be considered in the zoning ordinance, by allowing family day care within residential zones without discretionary approval. The City's Unified Development Code allows establishment of day care within a dwelling occupied by the day care provider as their primary residence, in all residential zones and the CTC and CC commercial zones. Adult day care homes may provide care for up to six adults, and family child care homes may provide care for up to 14 children (including two of the owner's children), pursuant to State law and the applicable City requirements. While the Residential Care Facility requires a CUP for seven (7) or more persons, staff encourages applicants to occupy properties within residential areas and stay under the 6 person requirement. City staff recognizes the discrepancy in the requirements for Residential Care Facilities and Multi -family Developments. With the of overhaul of the City's UDC as part of the One Valley One Vision General Plan update, staff proposes to review the feasibility of allowing Residential Care Facilities to have the same development requirements as a Multi -Family Development (Program H5.11). VII. NON -GOVERNMENTAL CONSTRAINTS TO HOUSING PRODUCTION Housinq Market The number of housing starts dropped significantly in 2006 and 2007 in comparison to the previous nine years. This slowdown in housing construction reflected both regional and national trends and resulted from a combination of factors, including increasing numbers of foreclosures, higher mortgage interest rates, more stringent lending practices, increasing costs of materials and energy, and falling housing prices. Within the City in 2006, only 144 single-family homes and two guest houses were completed, while in 2007, 209 single-family homes, 16 townhouses and two guest houses were built. These numbers represent less than half of production in 2005, when 434 new units were built, and 2002, when 457 new units were built. The principal constraint on new housing development in Santa Clarita has been the collapse of the housing market. Approximately 1,000 Santa Clarita homes were foreclosed in 2007 as shown on Table H-3.18. Table H-3.15 in Section 3D, Characteristics of Existing Housing Stock, shows the sharp decline in home prices between June 2007 and June 2008. DRAFT May, 2011 H-126 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Land Cost Another constraint to housing development is the cost of vacant, easily developable land that has access to infrastructure and public services. Much of the flat land within the City's boundaries has already been subdivided or developed. Marginal land with hillsides, riparian areas, biological resources, mineral resources, or other constraints is often more difficult and costly to develop. In 2008, vacant land prices in the City of Santa Clarita that are zoned for residential use range from $10 to $30 per square foot, or between $435,600 and $1,306,800 per acre. Cost of Construction Tables H-6.5 and H-6.7 show the cost of fees for single and multi -family housing in 2008. A combination of escalating costs of land, labor and materials cost along with development impact fees and zoning requirements have driven up housing production costs. As explained in the Governmental Constraints section, the high fees that are part of the cost of new units reflect the real cost of growth in Santa Clarita: the need to provide infrastructure and new schools and parks. Rising energy prices have affected the cost of construction materials due to transportation costs. In addition, the cost of steel, lumber, concrete, and other materials have risen substantially over the last five years. According to City staff, residential construction costs in Santa Clarita Valley are currently between $118 and $138 per square foot. Added to this are impact and processing fees estimated at $63,435 per unit for a 2,000 square foot single-family dwelling and $46,165 per unit for a 1,000 square foot multi -family unit. So the cost, excluding land costs and builder's profit, for a newly constructed single-family home would be between $299,435 and $339,435. Single- family homes in Santa Clarita are not affordable for households that earn the City's median income of $75,917, although such households could find resale condominiums units in their price range. New multi -family construction would be between $164,165 and $185,165 per unit. Even though costs are even higher, development of affordable units financed with low-income tax credits is still feasible because the projects are financed with large equity investments, deferred or residual receipt loans and low-cost debt. Owners of newly constructed market -rate multi -family housing with conventional mortgages need high rent payments to support their buildings. Construction and Permanent Financinq for Subdivisions and Multi -Family Housing Given that the inventory of unsold homes is at a 27-year high nationwide and home sales are at a 17-year low, the availability of financing for new market rate single and multi -family construction is difficult to assess. Constraints on new housing development are not primarily due to lack of construction finance but due to lack of a market for new or resale homes. Planning Department records indicate that between 2001 and 2007, seven subdivisions with a total of 2,968 units were approved. Of these units, 1,614 are single-family and 1,354 are multi- family. Only 210 of these units have so far been built. Applications for three additional subdivision tract maps with 449 units including 115 multi -family units have been submitted but not approved. LandSource and its subsidiaries, including Newhall Land and Lennar, are substantial land developers in the City of Santa Clarita and surrounding areas. In May 2008, LandSource and its subsidiaries filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Lennar's current and proposed new H-127 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan home developments in Santa Clarita include West Creek and West Hills in Valencia, River Village and Newhall Ranch (in unincorporated Los Angeles County.) On its website in mid - August 2008 Lennar was still listing new homes for sale in one of its Valencia subdivisions at prices varying from $300,000 to $600,000 and above. However, according to information on the Santa Clarita Real Estate Blog, Lennar has halted work in most of its subdivisions. The availability of financing for affordable housing is not facing the same problems as market rate housing. The State of California Multi -family Housing Program (MHP) funded by Proposition C bond funds is continuing to issue Requests for Proposals, local redevelopment agencies are still required to expend the funds in their low and moderate housing set -aside funds in a timely manner, and the Federal Home Loan Bank is still providing AHP grants. The only stumbling block for affordable housing development might be in the area of conventional mortgages since many large lenders with Community Reinvestment Act obligations have experienced very large losses. However, most of these institutions now deposit their community reinvestment funds in the Community Reinvestment Corporation, which then underwrites and services the community reinvestment loans. In the next six years, the City of Santa Clarita plans to assist in the production of 120 additional low and moderate multi -family units funded by tax -credits, redevelopment housing set -aside funds, and a variety of other public sources. According to several experts in tax credit finance, until the last year or two, tax credit investments were yielding nearly one dollar of equity for every dollar of tax credit; now the yield is closer to 90 cents on the dollar. So the City may have to provide somewhat more gap finance than originally anticipated. Single -Family Mortgages In 2008, help for families in the City of Santa Clarita who are facing foreclosure is as important as the availability of mortgages for home purchase. The foreclosure data in Table H.3.18for the quarter ending June 2008 show a steep increase in foreclosures compared to the same period in 2007, and represent an increase over the previous quarter as well. Numerous newspaper articles and blogs such as the L.A. Land blog on the Los Angeles Times website have pointed out that for homeowners with resetting ARM mortgages who are upside down (owe more than the home is worth), the best option may be to simply walk away. The penalty for foreclosure is not overly severe; FHA eligibility criteria for new mortgage loans only require that two years have passed since a foreclosure and three years since a bankruptcy. However, this option is not recommended for homeowners. Instead, methods to help homeowners keep their homes must be identified. Those homeowners who want to save their homes from foreclosure need information and competent mortgage counseling. Resources for free mortgage counseling on line and by phone include: The "HOPE Hotline" (1-888-995-HOPE or www.995HOPE.org), which provides free mortgage counseling 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The state's English and Spanish language consumer mortgage information websites that provide information both for prospective homebuyers and for homeowners facing difficulties: www.yourhome.ca.gov and www.sucasa.ca.gov. DRAFT May, 2011 H-128 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Despite the downturn in the housing market, FHA -insured loans still provide very low (3%) or even no down payment loans for the purchase of single-family homes. Borrowers only have to be two years from a foreclosures and three years from a bankruptcy. The income -to -mortgage payment ratio is now 29% of gross income without consumer debt included, and 41 % of gross income including all other debt payments. Because borrowers are shopping for loans online, the types of loans and terms offered by local lending institutions no longer limit housing sale or purchase. However, depending on the area where they are seeking to buy, purchasers may have more or less trouble finding a loan as lenders try to shield themselves from the risk that housing prices may decline further. Although some buyers may have trouble finding an affordable loan, uncertainty about the direction of housing prices in a period when headlines in the newspapers and broadcast news programs regularly predict further price decreases is probably having a greater effect on home purchase than problems with obtaining a loan. However, lenders may also be affected by the possibility that the value of the home on which they are lending may decline over the short run rather than remaining stable or rising in price. Such concerns could affect the amount the lender is willing to lend, and the terms of the loan. Conclusion Non -governmental constraints to housing production in the City include national economic conditions affecting the regional housing market, land costs, construction costs such as materials and labor, and availability of financing. The City has limited authority to alter these constraints. However, the City can assist housing developers by assisting with land purchase and financing through the various funding sources it has available to promote affordable housing development. These programs are described below in Part VIII. VIII. GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND PROGRAMS Based on the analysis of existing conditions, housing needs, and constraints contained in Parts I-VII of this element, the City has developed housing goals, objectives, policies and programs designed to help meet the needs of existing and future residents for adequate and affordable housing. This section of the element sets forth the City's housing goals, along with specific programs for action. During the next Housing Element update process in 2014, the programs established in this element will be evaluated to determine the City's level of success in meeting its objectives. As part of the City's General Plan, the format for this part of the document is similar to the goals, objectives and policies contained in the other General Plan Elements. However, unlike the other elements, State law requires that the Housing Element must contain quantified objectives for meeting its share of the regional housing needs, and specific programs designed to meet the City's housing goals. State guidelines suggest that a goal should express an end or mission to be accomplished, rather than a specific action. Goals explain the long-range result desired by the City for each required topic in the Housing Element. H-129 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Objectives define the measurable results that the City seeks to accomplish. Unlike goals, they are specific targets for program outputs, benchmarks for the evaluation of progress. The section begins with the "Quantified Objectives" required by State law to indicate how many dwelling units of each income level are planned to be achieved during the planning period. In addition, the City has established quantified objectives for its rehabilitation and handy worker programs. A policy statement guides decision -making and indicates a commitment of the local legislative body to a particular course of action. A policy is based on and helps implement a general plan's objectives. A policy is carried out by implementing programs. Programs are specific actions to be undertaken by the City to achieve its objectives and meet its goals. Programs should reflect the results and analyses of the City's local housing needs, available land and financial resources, and the mitigation of identified governmental and non- governmental constraints. Each program must clearly state the time frame for implementation, identify the responsible agency or officials, describe the City's role in the program, describe the specific actions needed to implement the program, and demonstrate the City's commitment by identifying funding sources. Quantified Objectives State law requires that a City establish quantified objectives for development of new housing within the planning period. Table H-8.1 summarizes Santa Clarita's projected new construction of affordable and market rate units during the period 2006-2014. Some of these units were already constructed in 2006 through 2008. The market may produce an additional 1,300 additional units if a real estate market recovery begins in late 2010 or early 2011. A nonprofit organization is working to make 67 existing units permanently affordable. These, plus another 74 units, are part of the Santa Clarita Redevelopment Agency's obligation to construct or replace units in the Newhall Redevelopment Area. Funding provided by the City will produce or make permanently affordable 140 units: 47 affordable to very low income households and 93 affordable to low income households. Although the projected number of units constructed is only 23% of the City's RHNA allocation, this estimate is based on current market conditions beyond the City's control. The City of Santa Clarita also plans to fund housing rehabilitation grants for 327 single-family homeowners and provide handy worker grants to another 700 households for a total of 1,027 grants to 600 very low and 427 low income households. These grants will ensure that residents living in older homes in the City can maintain those homes in safe and sanitary conditions. DRAFT May, 2011 H-130 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Table H-8.1: Quantified New Construction Obiectives. 2006-2014 Extremely Very Low Low Moderate Above Housing Type Low 50% or less ° 51 /o to 81 % to 120% Moderate Total 30%or less of median 80% of of median >120% of of median median median RHNA 2,492 1,560 1,657 3,888 9,598 New construction 20 25 90 140 2009-2014 New units built 2 3 3 50 452 502 2006 & 2008 Preservation/Units 67 67 made affordable Total New Const. 22 28 160 50 452 712 Table H-8.2: Quantified Rehabilitation Obiectives 2006-2014 Extremely Low Very Low Low Moderate Above Housing Type 30%or ° 50 /o or ° 51 /o to 81 % to Moderate Total less of 80% of ° 120 /o of >120% of less of median median median median median Single -Family 40 Rehab Grants 105 182 327 Handyworker 80 375 245 700 Total 120 480 427 1,027 Adequate Sites State zoning law (Government Code Section 65913.1) requires localities to zone sufficient vacant land for residential use with appropriate standards to meeting the housing needs identified in the housing element and other sections of the general plan. Goal H 1: Provide adequate sites to accommodate 9,598 new housing units between 2006 and 2014. Objective: Provide adequate sites at a range of densities to accommodate future housing needs. Policy H1.1.1: Encourage a variety of housing types such as single-family attached (townhouses), multi -family units, planned unit developments mixed use housing and other housing types that make housing more affordable. Policy 1-11.1.2: Encourage the development of new affordable units through the provision of incentives. H-131 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy 1-11.1.3: Replace housing units demolished by the redevelopment agency for redevelopment projects. Policy H1.1.4: Establish minimum densities for residential land use districts in the Land Use Element of the General Plan. Program H 1.1: Adequate Sites for Housing Affordable to Low and Very Low Income Households. Objective/Timeframe: Pursuant to Government Codes 65583(1)(3) and 65583.2(c)(3)(A & (B), the City shall rezone sufficient areas for residential density of minimum of 20 units per acre to accommodate 2,253 units for lower income households. The City shall amend the zoning map to rezone a minimum of 320 acres of land from parcels within Suitable Sites 2,3,4,5 and 16 to the UR5 and SP zones to require minimum densities of 20 units per acre, ensuring that at least 50% of the capacity of these sites is zoned exclusively for residential use. As part of rezoning sites 2, 3, 4 and 16 the City will rezone parcel #s 2812-008-008, 2836-014- 056, 2836-014-901, 2836-014-902, 2836-013-911, 2839-021-006, -007, -008, -009, -010, -016, -018 and portions of the other parcels within the sites to facilitate subsequent parcels with sizes of approximately 2-10 acres and establish programs to incentives subdivision and streamline lot splits such as ministerial/administrative approval ( Program H 1.7 and H 1.11). The rezoned sites will permit owner - occupied and rental multi -family uses by right, without a conditional use permit, or other discretionary action, and permit at least 16 units per site in conformance with Section 65583.2 (h) and (1) of the Government Code Timeframe: Completed and approved by December, 2011 Responsible Agency: Community Development Department, Planning Commission and City Council. Program H 1.2: Affordable Housing Density Bonus Administer the City's existing density bonus program pursuant to Government Code Section 65915 (State Density Bonus Law) as amended by SB 1818 in 2004. Provide a by -right density bonus of 25% to developers of new housing who make 5% of new units affordable to households earning 50% or less of area median income or 10% of units affordable to households earning 80% of area median income. The density bonus can reach 35% if the project provides 11 % of the units affordable to very low households (earning 50% of less of median income), 20% of units affordable to households earning 80% or less of median income or 40% affordable to households earning between 80% and 120% of the median income. Provide additional incentives as provided in Unified Development Code Section 17.17.070. Developers requesting to use the density bonus must submit applications on a form approved by the Community Development Director at the time of submitting any entitlement application for a housing development where a density bonus is requested. The application shall include, at a minimum, the following information: DRAFT May, 2011 H-132 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element • A description of how the proposed project meets the criteria for a density bonus under Section 65915; • Concession(s), including parking adjustments, requested by the applicant; • A depiction of the location of the density bonus housing units within the proposed development. Objective/Timeframe: Approve at least 121 affordable units to meet the City's Regional Housing Needs Allocation. Ongoing. Responsible Department: Community Development Program H 1.3: Adequate Sites for Market Rate Housing Objective/Timeframe: Provide sites for the development of at least 2,061 units but up to 9,792 market rate. Designate sites on General Plan map 6/31/2009; rezoning for all sites by December 31, 2010. Implementation is ongoing. Responsible Department: Community Development Department Program H 1.4: Density Bonus Code Amendment The City will consider amending the Unified Development Code to allow granting of density bonuses in excess of the minimum required by State law, but not to exceed 50%, provided that all units in the project are affordable to very -low and low-income residents and that the project conforms with the City's design guidelines. Timeframe: By December, 2011 Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: None required Program H 1.5: Mixed Use Ordinance Implement the City's Mixed Use provisions as set forth in the General Plan Land Use Element and the Mixed Use Overlay Zone (MU) to encourage a mix of residential, commercial, employment and institutional opportunities within activity centers along identified corridors throughout the City. The purpose of the mixed use overlay zone is: (1) to provide a mechanism to revitalize older commercial corridors and specific individual properties; (2) to increase opportunities for infill housing; (3) aesthetically improve transportation corridors; (4) reduce automobile dependence by creating pedestrian -oriented neighborhoods where local residents have services, shops, job, and access to transit within walking distance of their homes. Incentives for Mixed Use Development include accelerated plan check review; increased residential and commercial density opportunities; increased building heights, reduced parking requirements, and reduced setbacks along public streets. H-133 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Objective/Timeframe: Approve at least 50 housing units within mixed use developments between 2008 and 2014. Responsible Department: Community Development Department Program H 1.6: Graduated Density Zoning —Newhall Redevelopment Area Redevelopment of portions of Downtown Newhall is constrained by the small parcel sizes created by small -lot subdivisions in the past. The City will evaluate the feasibility of adopting a program for "graduated density zoning" in this target area. This tool would offer increased density based on the size of the site, thereby encouraging owners of adjoining properties to collaborate in combining parcels to form a larger development site or to package adjoining parcels for sale. Geographic Coverage: Newhall Redevelopment Area Objective/Timeframe: Conduct study and make recommendations to be completed by 2012. Responsible Department: Community Development Department Program H 1.7 Small Lot Subdivisions Make homeownership more affordable by allowing the creation of smaller, fee -simple lots. Allowing small lot subdivisions also adds flexibility in design to promote a diversity of housing types, such as townhouses and row houses. Objective/Timeframe: Assess the feasibility of establishing a program for small lot subdivisions in 2012, and if feasible, draft Unified Development Ordinance amendments for review and adoption in 2013. Responsible Department: Community Development Department Program H 1.8 Land Banking/Write-Downs Establish a proactive City land banking strategy to facilitate the development of housing affordable to low and very -low income households. Under this program the City would acquire properties as they become available and offer the properties to qualified developers through a Request for Proposal/Notice of Funding Availability process. Land banking efforts could be expanded to include: • Purchase of appropriate vacant/underutilized sites as they become available; • Acquisition of surplus properties from other local, State, and federal agencies; • Purchase of tax -delinquent properties; • Purchase of bank foreclosed properties; and/or • Acceptance of donation of land as an in -lieu option as part of a proposed Inclusionary Housing Program (discussed later in this section). DRAFT May, 2011 H-134 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Objectives/Timeframes: Establish a land banking strategy and tracking program for available parcels and explore funding sources. Develop a interdepartmental process to track available land by 2009. ■ Establish a land -banking strategy by 2010 ■ Identify potential funding sources by 2011 Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: Redevelopment Set -Aside; CDBG; HOME; development agreements. Program H 1.9 Community Land Trust Create a community land trust to make housing permanently affordable. A land trust is an agreement that allows one party, the trustee, to hold ownership of a piece of real property for the benefit of another party, the beneficiary. A Community Land Trust (CLT) is a property trust that aims to benefit the surrounding community by ensuring the long-term availability of affordable housing. CLTs are set up as Section 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. CLTs have been established to serve inner-city neighborhoods, small cities, clusters of towns, and rural areas. Most CLTs focus on the production of affordable ownership housing. The CLT owns the land in perpetuity and sells the home on that land. With the value of the land taken out of the equation, the home price dramatically drops. The homebuyer will lease the land from the CLT at a minimal or no cost and may sell the home at any time. However, the homeowner is entitled to only a proportion of the appreciated equity of the home and must also agree to sell to someone else who qualifies for the program. The formula to create an affordable price to both the seller and the buyer ensures continued affordability. Some CLTs also pursue multi -family housing projects. The CLT can work with various ownership structures for multi -family buildings. For example, the CLT may own and manage a building as rental housing; another nonprofit may own and manage the building as rental housing; or the residents may own the building as a cooperative or as condominiums. There is no CLT's currently operating in Santa Clarita. Targeted Groups: Lower income households Objective/Timeframe: Evaluate the feasibility of establishing a land trust by December 2011. Feasibility study will include identification of partners and funding sources. If approved, initiate program in 2012. Responsible Department: Community Development Department H-135 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Program H 1.10: Inclusionary Housing Program (Mixed Income Housing) Adopt an inclusionary housing program. Also known as inclusionary zoning, inclusionary housing is a local policy or ordinance that requires a developer to include a certain percentage of units in a housing project that are affordable to low- and moderate -income households. Many communities in California rely on inclusionary housing policies to achieve their affordable housing goals. Currently, 12 counties and 95 cities in California have inclusionary housing policies. For a study of California's programs see http://www.nhc.org/pdf/pub_ahp_02_04.pdf. The advantage of this program for Santa Clarita is that it will ensure that affordable units are produced along with market -rate units to meet the needs of the City's lower income working families and seniors. Santa Clarita's share of the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) requires the City create to identify 4,052 sites for very -low and low- income households zoned to allow density of at least 30 units per acre. Zoning land with higher densities will increase the value of the land for both owners and developers. An inclusionary ordinance will ensure that the community as a whole benefits when land is developed with higher density, by ensuring that affordable housing is provided whenever new market rate units are developed on these sites. Inclusionary housing policies vary widely based on local market conditions. Some criteria for the City to consider are: • Inclusionary Housing Percentage: Most communities in California with inclusionary housing policies require at least 10% of the units to be inclusionary, with some communities requiring more than 20%. Income Levels Targeted: Most inclusionary housing policies are targeted toward low- income households. However, in recent years, the housing costs in California have escalated to a point where even moderate -income households have problems obtaining affordable housing. Increasingly, communities are including moderate -income households in their inclusionary policies. Nevertheless, jurisdictions should take into account the proportion of need in each income category, including the needs of the extremely low income population, when designing Inclusionary Housing Programs, and prioritized funding for extremely low income housing if possible. • Applicable Housing Types: In the past, inclusionary housing policies were applied only to rental housing. However, with increasing home ownership costs and income gaps in California, many communities are now applying inclusionary policies to ownership housing developments. DRAFT May, 2011 H-136 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Exemptions: Small-scale developments are likely to have financial and physical difficulties in meeting inclusionary housing requirements. Most policies have a minimum project size of around 10 units that will trigger the inclusionary policy. Developments that do not meet the minimum project size are often required to pay an in -lieu fee (see in -lieu options below). Although the revenue generated by these fees is not typically sufficient to purchase land and build comparable units elsewhere, it can be combined with other funding sources such as redevelopment set -aside funds in order to purchase and land -bank housing sites as described in Program H 1.6. In -Lieu Options to Constructing Affordable Units On -Site: Most California communities offer one or more of the following in -lieu options: - Pay an in -lieu fee; - Construct the affordable units off -site; - Donate land so the affordable units can be constructed by another developer; - Purchase affordability covenants on existing market -rate units; or - Extend affordability covenants on affordable housing that are at risk of converting to market -rate housing. Geographic Coverage: Some communities apply the inclusionary policy throughout their political boundaries, while others have inclusionary policies that are applicable only to targeted areas, such as redevelopment project areas. Duration of Affordability and Resale Provisions: Inclusionary housing policies are intended to create a permanent supply of affordable housing. Rental housing units usually have affordability covenants to guarantee long-term affordability of these units. Ownership units generally have a mechanism in place to recapture part of the financial resources in order to replenish the affordable housing stock and prevent assisted households from receiving a windfall from the transaction. Recently, affordability controls in inclusionary policies have come to mirror redevelopment affordable terms-55 years for rental housing and 45 years for ownership housing with resale provisions. Incentives for Developers to Offset Costs: Because inclusionary housing shifts some of the costs of producing affordable housing to developers, local jurisdictions typically offer development incentives or regulatory concessions. Incentive options include a density bonus, height increase, shared parking or reduced parking requirements, reduced setbacks or landscaping requirements, fee waivers or reductions, or other flexibility in development standards. • Feasibility Study: Many local jurisdictions conduct a technical feasibility study to ensure that the minimum housing set -aside requirements, in conjunction with the incentives provided to offset costs, do not contribute overall to making the development of housing financially infeasible. H-137 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Objectives/Timeframe: Evaluate the feasibility of establishing an inclusionary housing policy which reflects the housing needs of the various income categories and housing sizes, including the needs of the extremely low income population, by January 2012. If approved in concept, the City will draft and approve an ordinance and modify the existing Housing Element by December 2012 and begin program by March 2013. Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: General Fund; CDBG; RDA Set -Aside Funds; development agreement Program H 1.11 Large Sites Program To facilitate the development of housing for lower income households: The City will encourage land divisions and specific plans resulting in parcels sizes that facilitate multifamily developments affordable to lower income households in light of state, federal and local financing programs (i.e., TCAC, HOME, RDA units). The City will offer the following incentives for the development of affordable housing including but not limited to priority to processing subdivision maps that include affordable housing units, expedited review for the subdivision of larger sites into buildable lots where the development application can be found consistent with the General Plan, applicable Specific Plan and master environmental impact report, financial assistance (based on availability of federal, state, local foundations, and private housing funds, and modification of development requirements, such as reduced parking standards for seniors, assisted care, and special needs housing on a case -by -case basis. Timeframes: Ongoing, as projects are submitted to the Community Development department. Responsible Department: Community Development Department, Planning Commission. Assist in the Development of Affordable Housin_g Goal H.2: Assist in the development of adequate housing to meet the needs of extremely low, very low, low and moderate income households (Government Code Section 65583(c)(2). Objective H 2.1: Assist in the development of new and rehabilitated housing to provide at least 273 units for households with very low and low incomes. Policy H 2.1.1: Target one third of housing subsidies to extremely low income households in new affordable development. Policy H 2.1.2: Require that all units developed under any of the City affordable housing programs remain affordable for the longest possible time or at least 55 years. DRAFT May, 2011 H-138 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Policy H 2.1.3: Encourage the development of housing affordable to lower income groups in areas well served by public transportation, schools, retail, and other services. Policy H 2.1.4: Encourage the transition of the homeless population to stable housing. Program H 2.1 Redevelopment Affordable Housing Program In 1997 the City established the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Santa Clarita to administer redevelopment activities in the Newhall Redevelopment Project Area. The Agency adopted a new 5-Year Implementation Plan and a 10-Year Housing Plan in 2008. Housing construction activities are anticipated to take place in the project area in the Housing Element planning period. The Agency is required to comply with provisions of the Health and Safety Code, which requires that all redevelopment plans adopted on or after 1976 comply with the following redevelopment housing requirements: Replacement Requirement: Replace low- and moderate -income housing that is removed as a result of a redevelopment project (Replacement Rule, Section 33413(a)). Housing Production Requirement: Ensure that an amount equal to at least 15% of all market -rate housing constructed by private developers, or 30% of all housing constructed by the agency in the project area, is affordable to low- and moderate -income households (Inclusionary Rule, Section 33413(b)). Housing Fund Requirement: Expend at least 20% of tax increment revenue to increase, improve, and preserve the supply of low- and moderate -income housing in a project area (Set -Aside Rule, Section 33334.2). Funds must be spent in proportion to the community's needs as set forth in the Housing Element, and other State requirements. Geographic Coverage: Newhall Redevelopment Agency Project Area Objectives/Timeframe: Assist in the development of 40 very low-income and 80 low-income affordable housing units in the redevelopment project area. Develop by 2010 an additional 20 very low-income units and 40 low-income units; and by 2012: develop 20 very low-income units and 40 low-income units. Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: City Redevelopment Set -Aside; HOME; CDBG; Tax Exempt Multi -Family Revenue Bonds; Infill Grant; Transit Oriented Development Grant. Program H 2.2: Homebuyer Assistance — FirstHOME Program The City offers homeownership assistance through the FirstHOME Program. FirstHOME provides low- and moderate -income first-time homebuyers with a low - interest, second mortgage to be used as a down payment on an owner -occupied primary residence. Repayment is deferred until the home is sold, changes title, or ceases to be the borrower's primary residence. H-139 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan The primary funding source for this program is HOME funds which are obtained through competitive application to the State. While the City intends to apply for HOME funds as often as they become available, it cannot predict the outcome of those applications. Objectives/Timeframe: Apply to the State for HOME funds to provide loans through the City FirstHOME Program. Submit applications in 2008, 2011 and 2013. Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: Federal HOME Funds administered by the State of California. Program H 2.3: Homebuyer Assistance — CalHFA The California Housing Finance Agency (CaIFHA) provides primary and junior mortgage loans to first-time homebuyers at below -market interest rates. The City will continue to coordinate the FirstHOME Program with CaIHFA programs in order to increase the low - and moderate -income homebuyer's opportunity for homeownership. Targeted Groups: Low- and moderate -income first-time homebuyers Objective/Timeframe: Continue to be a CaIHFA participating jurisdiction and coordinate the FirstHOME Program with the various CaIHFA loan programs Responsible Department: Community Development Department Program H 2.4: Homebuyer Assistance — Mortgage Credit Certification Program The Mortgage Credit Certification (MCC) Program, offers first-time homebuyers a federal income tax credit. This credit reduces the amount of federal taxes the holder of the certificate would pay. It can also help first-time homebuyers qualify for a loan by allowing a lender to reduce the housing expense ratio by the amount of tax savings. The qualified homebuyer who is awarded an MCC may take an annual credit against their federal income taxes paid on the homebuyer's mortgage. The credit is subtracted dollar - for -dollar from the federal income taxes. The qualified buyer is awarded a tax credit of up to 15%, and the remaining 85% is deducted accordingly. The City will continue to be a participating jurisdiction in this program so that homebuyers in Santa Clarita can benefit from the federal Mortgage Credit Certification Program (MCC Program) operated by the County of Los Angeles. Targeted Groups: Low- and moderate -income first-time homebuyers Objective/Timeframe: Make the County's MCC Program available in Santa Clarita by continuing to be a participating jurisdiction. Responsible Department: Community Development Department DRAFT May, 2011 H-140 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Program H 2.5: Senior Shared Housing Program One option available to increase housing opportunities for seniors on fixed incomes is to encourage shared housing, where residents share a home with other seniors in order to save on housing costs. The City will explore and evaluate the best method of assisting seniors to share housing in order to make housing more affordable. The result of this evaluation will be either: 1) Develop a new City program; or 2) contract with an existing shared housing provider. Targeted Group: Lower income seniors living in Santa Clarita. Objective/Timeframe: Evaluate a shared housing program for seniors by December, 2011 Funding Source: CDBG or grant funds Responsible Department: Community Development Department Program H 2.6 Homeless Case Management In addition to shelter, those experiencing homelessness need on -going case management to address the issues leading to homelessness, and assist them with transition to stable permanent housing. Effective case management services may include counseling, transportation assistance, job search assistance, and referrals to legal, health care, and substance abuse services. Assistance in locating transitional shelter or subsidized housing may also be provided. Targeted Groups: Homeless Individuals and Families Objectives/Timeframe: Fund homeless case management services connected to local homeless shelter operations. Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: Community Development Block Grants Program H 2.7 Collaboration with Non -Profit Affordable Housing Developers The City continues to work with non-profit affordable housing developers to create new affordable housing units. In 2005-2006 the City conducted a Request for Qualifications process in which two developers were chosen to work with the City to develop a mixed - use family affordable housing project. Efforts toward the completion of that project are on -going. H-141 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan The City intends to continue to be responsive to the proposals of other affordable housing developers, and will support projects which show promise to provide affordable housing for seniors and families, especially those who are extremely low-income. Currently, affordable housing developers approach the City informally with projects in various stages of development, making it difficult to bring projects to fruition. A formal Request for Financial Assistance Application will streamline and clarify this process. The Application will include information on the affordable housing goals of the City, including the provision of housing for large households and extremely low income households. Objectives/Timeframe: Develop a Request for Financial Assistance Application by 2010. The City will then annually evaluate the program and identify sources for funding as they become available. Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: Community Development Block Grants, Redevelopment Set -Aside Funds Program H 2.8: Extremely -Low Income Affordable Housing Program Encourage the development of housing for extremely -low income households (households earning at or below 30% of median, based on HUD calculations for the Los Angeles County area). Within each program described in the H.2 Goal, an emphasis will be placed on serving the needs of extremely -low income households. Housing developed through Program 2.1 - Redevelopment Affordable Housing Program, will be required to include units for extremely -low income households. As part of the activities in Program H 2.7 - Collaboration with Non -Profit Affordable Housing Developers, the City will give preference to programs and projects that have greater numbers of housing for very -low income households. Objectives/Timeframe: Within the Redevelopment Affordable Housing Program, give preference to projects with larger percentages of units for extremely -low income households. Ensure that the Request for Financial Assistance Application, to be developed by 2010, emphasizes the City's preference for projects that serve the extremely -low income population. Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: City Redevelopment Set -Aside; HOME; CDBG; Tax Exempt Multi -Family Revenue Bonds; Infill Grant; Transit Oriented Development Grant Conserve and Improve the Existing Housing Stock Goal 3: Conserve and improve the existing housing stock through Community Preservation, rehabilitation loans, and a handy worker program. Objective H 3.1: Bring existing housing units up to an established standard of habitability. Policy H 3.1.1: Enforce existing standards of habitability DRAFT May, 2011 H-142 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Policy H 3.1.2: Provide rehabilitation assistance to income -eligible homeowners for repairs related to safety, habitability and accessibility standards. Policy H 3.1.3: Provide grants and loans to income -eligible owner -occupants of single- family homes for emergency and minor safety, habitability and accessibility repairs. Program H 3.1 Proactive Community Preservation Conduct proactive Community Preservation activities related to property maintenance and public safety issues in selected neighborhoods of Canyon Country and Newhall to forestall decline of these neighborhoods and help maintain them in a clean, safe, healthy, and secure manner that contributes to community vitality. Staff from Community Preservation, Housing, Planning, Building and Safety, Park and Recreation, Community Services and Public Works work in close partnership with the affected neighborhoods, local law enforcement, fire, emergency services and local contractors to achieve code compliance. Geographic Coverage: East Newhall, Downtown Newhall, Canyon Country Objectives: • Maintenance and improvement of existing homes • Revitalization of neighborhoods in decline • Enhancement of residential property values • Reduction of crime, graffiti and gang activity Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Source: General Fund Program H 3.2: Foreclosed Property Maintenance Program SB 1137, passed by the California legislature and approved by the governor in July 2008, authorizes local governments to force owners to maintain properties sitting vacant after a foreclosure. Pursuant to this legislation, the City will adopt a program to require banks and other entities that own foreclosed properties in Santa Clarita, to maintain those properties. The following options will be considered in developing the program: • Require lender to inspect the property before a notice of foreclosure is recorded. • Require lenders to register vacant properties with the City, paying a fee to cover costs. • Require lender to maintain vacant properties and keep them secure. • Impose fines for failure to register or maintain vacant properties. H-143 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Assign Community Preservation responsibility for enforcement. Objective/Timeframe: Enact an ordinance to require maintenance of vacant, foreclosed properties. Propose and adopt ordinance by December, 2009 and begin enforcement in January, 2010 Responsible Department: Community Development Department Program H 3.3: Residential Rehabilitation Program The City will continue to administer a program that provides grants to low- and moderate -income homeowners to repair their primary residences. Eligible homes are those that are within City limits and are owner -occupied. Owners must meet income eligibility criteria. Grants of up to $5,000 per year per household are available to provide repairs to roofs, HVAC systems, electrical, windows, floors, and address other habitability issues. Targeted Groups: Low- and moderate -income homeowners Objective/Timeframe: Continue to provide 50 Residential Rehabilitation Grants per year. Responsible Department: Community Development Funding Sources: CDBG Program H 3.4: Handyworker Program The City will continue to provide financial support to the Handyworker Program, operated by the Santa Clarita Valley Committee on Aging — Senior Center through a grant from the City. The Handyworker Program provides minor home repairs, which are primarily performed by Senior Center staff. Grants up to a total of $2,500 in repairs are allowed per household, per year. Eligible households are owner -occupied and have incomes at or below 80% of the median household income for Los Angeles County, as determined annually by HUD. Typical repairs include plumbing, electrical, windows, walls, doors, and HVAC. Repairs which are beyond the scope of the Handyworker staff are subcontracted to local licensed repair persons. Targeted Groups: Low- and moderate -income homeowners Objective/Timeframe: Continue to fund the Senior Center to provide 100 Handyworker grants per year. Responsible Department: Community Development Department through a contract with the Santa Clarita Valley Committee on Aging — Senior Center Funding Source: CDBG DRAFT May, 2011 H-144 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Program H 3.5 Property Rehabilitation Program The City will continue to administer the Property Rehabilitation Program to provide grants to low- and moderate -income homeowners for repairs to the grounds surrounding their owner -occupied homes. Typical repairs include driveway repair, tree -trimming, fence, wall, and gate repair, and brush clearance Grants are for up to $1,000 in repairs. Targeted Groups: Low- and moderate -income homeowners Geographic Coverage: City of Santa Clarita Objective/Timeframe: Provide five Property Rehabilitation grants per year Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: CDBG Program H 3.6: Provide Information for Energy Conservation Programs The City of Santa Clarita will create and maintain a website that will be a "one -stop shop" that will provide residents, businesses and builders with programs and products that assist with energy conservation on existing units. The website will include any available programs for lower income residents. In addition, the City will review the existing building and development codes with all relevant state programs to implant many as recommendations as feasible. Timeframe: July 2009 for website and July 2010 development and building code revisions Responsible Departments: Community Development Department and Public Works Funding Sources: None Required Preserve Units at Risk of Conversion to Market Rate Rents Goal H 4: Preserve affordability of existing homes that are at risk of converting to market -rate rents during the planning period. Objective H 4.1.1: Preserve 112 units at risk of losing their subsidies and converting to market rents between 2008 and 2015. Policy H 4.1.2: Monitor the status of at -risk units throughout the planning period to identify units which are at planned for imminent conversion to market rate units. Policy H 4.2: Work with non-profit housing organizations to preserve at -risk units. Program H 4.1: Preservation of At -Risk Housing Santa Clarita has 602 units for families and individuals in 10 developments, and 956 low and very low income units in senior developments that are made affordable to low- and H-145 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan very -low-income tenants with state or federal finance. In 2006, 66 affordable units converted to market rents. During the 2006-2014 planning period, an additional 112 units in three developments are at high risk of losing their subsidies and converting to market rates (see Table H-3.20 and Table H-3.21). These units include 76 senior units affordable at 50% of median income; and 36 family units affordable to households earning 50% or less of median income (very low income). Conversion of these units to market -rate rents would be a significant loss of affordable housing in Santa Clarita. To the extent feasible, the City will work to preserve affordable units at risk of losing their subsidies and converting to market -rate rents. City staff is currently working with affordable housing developers on a project which would preserve 14 at -risk units and convert an additional 53 market -rate units in the same project to affordable units. Objectives/Timeframe: Annually update the status of at -risk housing beginning in 2009. Make contact with owners and residents of the Valencia Villas by 2009. Make contact with the owners and residents of Meadow Ridge Apartments by 2011. Begin investigating funding options for continuation of affordability agreements by 2009. Pursue funding as available. Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: Federal and state low-income housing tax credits, bond finance, California Multi -Family Housing Program, conventional mortgage funds. Address and Remove or Mitigate Constraints Goal 5: Address and, where appropriate and legally possible, remove government constraints to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing for all income levels. Objective H 5.1: Where possible, reduce or remove government restraints on housing as necessary and feasible. Policy H 5.1.1: Expedite application review, permitting, and inspection procedures for affordable housing projects. Policy H 5.1.2: Consider fee reductions and/or deferrals for affordable housing projects when deemed appropriate. Policy H 5.1.3: Revise the zoning code to remove constraints in compliance with State law Program H 5.1 Reasonable Accommodation The City will amend the Unified Development Code to create an administrative procedure whereby property owners and residents can apply for a reasonable accommodation for changes to make housing accessible to persons with disabilities or in need of any accommodation as protected by fair housing laws. The ordinance will be based on models provided by the California Department of Housing and Community Development. Information on the reasonable accommodation procedure will be made available on the City's website. DRAFT May, 2011 H-146 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Timeframe: By December, 2011 Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Source: General Fund Program H 5.2: Emergency Shelter Ordinance In compliance with California Senate Bill 2, on April 28, 2009 the City of Santa Clarita adopted an ordinance which modified the City's Unified Development Ordinance to create a Homeless Shelter Overlay Zone. Within this overlay zone, a year round shelter is permitted without any approval of a discretionary permit. Timeframe: By April, 2009 Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: None required Program H 5.3: Transitional and Supportive Housing In compliance with California Senate Bill 2, on April 29, 2009, the City of Santa Clarita adopted an ordinance which modified the City's Unified Development Ordinance to allow for transitional and supportive housing as a permitted use in all residential zones in the City limits. Timeframe: April, 2009 Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: None required Program H 5.4: Flexible Development Standards for Housing The City will amend the Unified Development Code to provide a process which affords flexibility for design and development standards to promote affordable housing, multi- family housing, infill housing, mixed -use housing, and transit -oriented housing development, which may include but is not limited to shared parking, variable lot sizes and dimensions, building height, and/or setbacks, subject to design review and approval. Timeframe: By December, 2011 Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: None required H-147 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Program H 5.5: Second Units The City will consider amending the Unified Development Code to allow second dwelling units on individual residential lots with primary dwellings, provided that said lots are between 5,000 square feet and 19,999 square feet in area, subject to an Administrative Permit. This action is in addition to the City's existing allowance for second dwelling units on lots of 20,000 square feet or larger, subject to an Administrative Permit. Timeframe: By December, 2011 Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: None required Program H 5.6: Monitoring of Codes and Ordinances The City will regularly monitor the implementation of ordinances, codes, policies, and procedures to ensure that they comply with reasonable accommodation for the disabled. Timeframe: Ongoing as needed Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: General Fund Program H 5.7: Fee Reductions or Deferrals for Affordable Housing Projects The City will review affordable housing proposals on a case -by -case basis and authorize reduction or deferral of fee payments as deemed appropriate. Projects with units for very -low income households will be given priority for any available fee reductions or deferrals. The City will investigate implementing a fee reduction or deferral ordinance to encourage developers to create affordable units for very -low income households. Timeframe: Current Policy - Ongoing as needed Responsible Department: Community Development Department and City Council Funding Sources: General Fund, Redevelopment Set -aside Program H 5.8: Expedited Processing for Affordable Housing Projects The City will continue an existing program to expedite processing for affordable housing projects, including one -stop preliminary review, concurrent application review, designation of a primary contact, construction and grading plan review, permitting, and inspection. DRAFT May, 2011 H-148 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Timeframe: Ongoing as applications are submitted Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: General Fund Program H 5.9: Elimination of Amenity -Based Mid -Point Density Policy The City will amend the General Plan to eliminate the amenity -based mid -point density policy, and will adopt density designations for residential land uses that are appropriate to the topography, infrastructure, environmental conditions, development capacity, and other site characteristics. Timeframe: July, 2011 Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: General Fund Program H 5.10: Modification to the UDC Definition of Family In June, 2009 the City of Santa Clarita amended the Unified Development Code to modify the definition of family to exclude the operator, operator's family and staff to comply with the Health and Safety Code. Timeframe: June, 2009 Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: None required Program H 5.11: Residential Care Facility Standards The City will consider amending the Unified Development Code to allow residential care facilities to have the same requirements as multi -family development including the removal of the conditional use permit requirement. Timeframe: By December, 2011 Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: None required H-149 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Equal Housing Opportunities Goal 6: Promote housing opportunities for all persons regardless of race, religion, sex, marital status, ancestry, national origin, color, familial status or disability. (Government Code Section 65583(c)(5) Objective H 6.1: Promote fair housing practices and prohibit discrimination Policy H 6.1.1: Ensure compliance with fair housing laws by adopting development guidelines that encourage the development of mixed -income housing in every zone district and in every area of the community. Policy H 6.1.2: Provide fair housing services that include public information, counseling and investigation Policy H 6.1.3: Prohibit discrimination in housing Program H 6.1: Fair Housing Programs The City contracts with a service provider to provide and coordinate fair housing services for residents. The fair housing services provider is required to conduct outreach and education activities, distribute literature, provide housing vacancy listings, and publicize the availability of fair housing services through various media. The contractor also records and investigates inquiries and complaints from residents. Targeted Groups: Rental property residents, rental property owners, rental property managers, resident managers, rental agencies and real estate brokers and agents. Objectives/Timeframe: • Annually allocate funding to support fair housing and tenant/landlord services. • Provide training to City staff on fair housing laws and responsibilities. Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: CDBG DRAFT May, 2011 H-150 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Housing Element Program H 6.2: Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice As a Community Development Block Grant entitlement community, the City is required to develop an Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI) in conjunction of the submission of the Consolidated Plan. The Al will contain: • Demographic data on housing, income, household make-up, employment, and a housing profile; • Evaluation of current City policies and regulations; • Evaluation of public sector impacts such as lending practices; • Description of potential impediments and conclusions; • Recommendations to address identified impediments. Objectives/Ti meframes: • Complete the 2009/2010 to 2013/2014 Assessment of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI) in 2009. • Implement recommendations of document. • Submit completed Al to HUD by May 15, 2009. Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: General Fund Program H 6.3: Monitor Housing Issues The City will monitor legislation, trends, and policy issues related to the development and maintenance of affordable housing in the City of Santa Clarita. Objectives/Timeframes: Ongoing efforts include but are not limited to: • Attending housing and legislative review conferences; • Attending training workshops; • Training on new legislation, state requirements, policies and procedures pertaining to housing programs. • The City will also participate in regional planning efforts coordinated by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) and interfacing with other local jurisdictions, the County of Los Angeles and the public. Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: General Fund, RDA Set -Aside H-151 DRAFT May, 2011 Housing Element City of Santa Clarita General Plan Program H 6.4: Mobile Home Rent Adjustment Policies The City currently has a Mobile home park rental adjustment policy codified as Municipal Code Chapter 6.02. This ordinance is designed to protect park residents, the majority of which are of lower income, from unreasonable rent increases. The ordinance also provides for the election of a Mobile Home Rental Adjustment Panel. The ordinance restricts the allowable annual space rent increases at mobile home parks within the City limits to one of the following: An adjustment limited to the percentage of the Consumer Price Index increase over the previous year (not to exceed 6%), along with a pass -through of increase costs of government required services and increased utility costs; or • An increase based on increases in operating costs and other park expenses, substantiated by the park owner through written documentation. Park owners are subject to significant notification requirements, and the ordinance puts into place a rent increase appeal process which can be initiated by the park residents. Targeted Groups: Mobile home Park residents and mobile home park owners Geographic Coverage: City of Santa Clarita Objectives/Timeframes: Continue to implement the regulations contained in the Mobile Home Park Rent Adjustment Procedures, Municipal Code 6.02 Responsible Department: Community Development Department Funding Sources: General Fund IX. REDEVELOPMENT FUNDS FOR HOUSING As of December 31, 2005, the Redevelopment Agency (Agency) low/mod housing fund balance was $947,491. The Agency is exploring the possibility of issuing low/mod tax exempt bonds which can be utilized in conjunction with the low/mod set -aside funds to complete the following projects: • Acquisition and Rehabilitation of Hidaway Apartments; • Senior affordable infill development in Old Town Newhall; • Development of an affordable multi -family rental project within the redevelopment project area; and • Continuing to select adequate sites for additional acquisition/rehabilitation projects. DRAFT May, 2011 H-152 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction INTRODUCTION TO THE GENERAL PLAN DRAFT MAY, 2011 A. Purpose and Intent of the General Plan This General Plan for the City of Santa Clarita has been prepared pursuant to California Government Code Sections 65300 et. seq., which require that each city and county within the state "adopt a comprehensive, long-term general plan for the physical development of the county or city, and of any land outside its boundaries which in the planning agency's judgment bears relation to its planning." The General Plan and its various elements are required to function as an integrated, internally consistent, and compatible statement of policies regarding land use and development. State law also recognizes that special local conditions and circumstances must be accommodated, and that general plans can take differing forms while meeting the requirements of the law. The General Plan serves as a foundation for making land use decisions based on goals and policies related to land use, transportation, population growth and distribution, development, open space, resource preservation and utilization, air and water quality, noise impacts, public safety, infrastructure, and other related physical, social, and economic factors. In addition to serving as a basis for local decision making, the General Plan establishes a clear set of development guidelines for citizens, developers, neighboring jurisdictions and agencies, and provides the community with an opportunity to participate in the planning process. The purpose of this General Plan is to comply with state requirements and to provide the City with a comprehensive, long-range policy guideline for future development. In accordance with California Government Code Section 65302, the General Plan contains the following elements: land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open space, noise, and safety. In addition, an Economic Development Element was included. For purposes of organizing the document more efficiently, the issues of conservation and open space have been combined into a single chapter. Each of the elements contains maps and text setting forth goals, policies and programs for the long-range physical development within the City's planning area. Development within the incorporated boundaries of the City will be directly guided by the maps, goals and policies contained in the General Plan. As specified in State law, the General Plan must also address "any land outside its boundaries which... bears relation to its planning." Therefore, the term planning area as used in this document also includes land within the Santa Clarita Valley that is outside of the current incorporated boundary of the City. Some of this additional area is included within the City's adopted sphere of influence, a boundary established by the Los Angeles County Local Agency Formation Commission to delineate land that may reasonably be expected to annex to the City at some time in the future, and for which the City must provide planning for land uses and public facilities in its General Plan. In addition to including the city and sphere of influence in the planning area, the City Council has deemed it beneficial to plan within a regional context, addressing the broader issues of growth, traffic congestion, water supply, open space, job creation, economic development, and other characteristics that are not contained within jurisdictional boundary lines. Recognizing that the City of Santa Clarita is located within and is an integral part of the greater Santa Clarita Valley, the City Council and Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors initiated a joint planning effort concurrent with their respective General Plan update processes. Called One Valley One Vision, this joint planning effort resulted in agreement between the City and the County on major 1-1 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction plans and policies to guide growth and development within all portions of the Santa Clarita Valley. Exhibit 1-1 shows the planning area, including the incorporated City boundaries, the adopted sphere of influence, and the greater Santa Clarita Valley addressed in the One Valley One Vision planning effort. B. One Valley One Vision Planning Process The One Valley One Vision planning process reflects the City's and County's mutual decision to coordinate land uses and the pace of development with provision of adequate infrastructure, conservation of natural resources, and common objectives for the Valley. Major goals of the One Valley One Vision joint planning effort were to achieve greater cooperation between the County and the City, coordinated planning for roadways, infrastructure, and resource management, and enhanced quality of life for all who live and work in the Santa Clarita Valley. The One Valley One Vision project included public input during all stages of the planning process. Community participation was solicited through surveys, meetings and workshops, mailings, maintenance of an informational website, stakeholder interviews, children's and youth activities, visioning workshops, outreach to Spanish-speaking residents through meetings and personal contact, placement of door -hangers, bus -shelter advertising, newspaper advertisements, the Valley Congress, correspondence, study sessions, and public hearings. An initial year -long public participation process resulted in formulation of community recommendations for the future of the Valley. These recommendations were published and ratified by a diverse collection of community representatives as the Vision and Guiding Principles, and are set forth in their entirety in Section N. The Guiding Principles also form the basis for more specific issue -based goals and policies contained in the various General Plan elements. Concurrently with adoption of the City's General Plan, the County of Los Angeles adopted the Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan as a component of the Los Angeles County General Plan. The Area Plan provides focused goals, policies, and maps to guide the regulation of development within the unincorporated portions of the Santa Clarita Valley. The updated OVOV Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan replaced in its entirety the Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan adopted by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on February 16, 1984 (and subsequently updated on December 6, 1990), and serves as the basic planning tool for the unincorporated portions of the Santa Clarita Valley. The County's Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan was prepared to ensure consistency with both the County's comprehensive General Plan and with the City of Santa Clarita's General Plan. The Area Plan does not include all of the mandatory general plan elements, because the County's overall General Plan addresses these mandatory issues on a countywide basis. The Area Plan contains detailed background, maps, goals and policies regarding land use and circulation planning, and policy -level discussions of other issues relating to specific needs and characteristics of the Santa Clarita Valley, such as open space preservation, trail planning, hillside development, and historic preservation. Implementation of the One Valley One Vision policies will be managed by the County of Los Angeles through adoption of the updated Area Plan as a part of its General Plan, and through use of the Area Plan to establish zoning regulations and guide new development proposals within unincorporated portions of the Santa Clarita Valley. The County will also adopt community standards districts to establish development regulations appropriate for specific 1-2 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction areas of the Valley. Those portions of the planning area within the incorporated boundaries of the City of Santa Clarita will be regulated by adoption of this updated General Plan, which has also been prepared to reflect the common goals and policies agreed to as part of the One Valley One Vision project. The City has adopted Special Standards Districts for the areas of Happy Valley, Sand Canyon and Placerita Canyon, and these districts will remain in place after adoption of the General Plan update. In the future, the City may consider adoption of other special standards districts, as appropriate. The City's General Plan and the County's Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan, as they may be amended from time to time, are intended to serve as a long-term blueprint for development of the entire Santa Clarita Valley over the next 20-year planning period, except where specific policies target other dates as set forth in the plan documents. Together, the Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan and the City's General Plan will clarify and articulate the County's and City's intentions with respect to the rights and expectations of the general public, property owners, special interest groups, prospective investors, and business interests. Through these documents, the County and the City inform the community of their common goals, policies, and standards. C. Documents Adopted to Implement the One Valley One Vision Planning Effort The joint City -County effort to provide for comprehensive planning of the Santa Clarita Valley has resulted in adoption of the following planning documents: This City of Santa Clarita General Plan, adopted by the City Council on by adoption of Resolution No. The City's General Plan includes all elements mandated by State law (Section 65300 et. seq. of the California Government Code), with open space and conservation combined into one element, as follows: o Land Use; o Circulation; o Housing; o Noise; o Conservation and Open Space; o Economic Development; and o Safety. ■ The Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan, adopted by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on by adoption of Resolution No. . The Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan includes the following elements, with maps, goals and policies specifically targeting the Santa Clarita Valley: o Land Use o Circulation o Public Safety (including Noise) o Conservation and Open Space 1-3 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction Both documents became effective on their respective date of adoption. As required by State law, all subsequent planning and development decisions within the Santa Clarita Valley planning area shall be determined to be consistent with these documents, except as provided herein for any land use applications pending during the plan preparation and adoption process. D. Environmental Impact Report Separate Environmental Impact Reports were prepared for the One Valley One Vision project, which addressed the Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan and the City's General Plan Update, respectively. The Draft Environmental Impact Report for the City's General Plan (SCH # 2008071133) was prepared in accordance with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act and was circulated for a 150-day public review beginning on September 23, 2010. Responses to the comments received on the draft EIR were prepared and transmitted to responding agencies. The Draft EIRs were reviewed by the Planning Commissions of both the County of Los Angeles and the City of Santa Clarita at noticed public hearings. Responses to comments and other relevant documentation were incorporated into the Final EIR for the City's General Plan, which was certified after public hearings by the City Council on E. Planning Area Location and Settinq The One Valley One Vision planning effort encompasses the entire Santa Clarita Valley, generally bounded on the west by the Ventura County line, on the north by the Los Padres and Angeles National Forest lands, on the east by the Angeles National Forest, and on the south by the major ridgeline separating the Santa Clarita Valley from the San Fernando Valley. The County's Area Plan includes unincorporated areas which include the communities of Stevenson Ranch, Castaic, Val Verde, Agua Dulce, Westridge, and the future Newhall Ranch. The incorporated City of Santa Clarita communities of Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia are included in the City's General Plan update. The entire planning area includes over 480 square miles, of which 432 square miles are in the County unincorporated area (including 235 square miles within the United States Forest Service boundaries) and 52 square miles are within the City limits. The City's adopted sphere of influence includes approximately 29 square miles which, although still under County jurisdiction, are also addressed in the City's General Plan. Table I-1 below summarizes jurisdictional areas, and Figure I-1 shows the planning area boundaries. 1-4 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction Table 1-1 Jurisdictional Areas in Santa Clarita Valley Planning Area Jurisdiction Area (Square Miles) Total Planning Area 485.40 United States Forest Service Area 235.19 One Valley One Vision Area (excluding 250.21 USFS) County of Los Angeles (including USFS) 432.73 City of Santa Clarita (incorporated boundaries) 52.68 as of 2009 City's Adopted Sphere of Influence* 29.48 *Note: The City's Sphere of Influence is included in County area, but must also be included in the City's General Plan area boundaries. 1-5 DRAFT May, 2011 i LU \ Id � / / § w - \ _ w�` k §° § - §� � \ : ME § { � B FL ' ■ /£/! \ <.§<�§ }J }ƒ\° d■ l�f::�9\ � \ lo ©r 0 . City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction The planning area is located approximately 30-40 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles. Existing land use patterns can be traced largely to the influence of geographic constraints. The valley is framed by mountain ranges, including the San Gabriel, Santa Susana, and Sierra Pelona ranges. Angeles National Forest land, most of which is undeveloped and protected, surrounds much of the planning area. The natural topography of the Santa Clara River and its many tributary canyons, in conjunction with the National Forest holdings, has focused growth in the Santa Clarita Valley on the more central, level areas between the Valley's two major freeways. Most of the development has occurred adjacent to the Golden State (Interstate 5) and Antelope Valley (State Route 14) freeways, concentrating urbanization within a W" shaped area formed by these two major transportation routes. The Valley's topography is characterized by rolling terrain, canyons, creeks, and the Santa Clara River. The river flows from east to west for almost 100 miles from its headwaters near Acton to the Pacific Ocean, through a valley formed between the Santa Susana Mountains. That portion of the river within the planning area is known as the Upper Santa Clara River, and has a watershed consisting of approximately 680 square miles. The Santa Clarita Valley is located at the convergence of several major transportation and utility facilities. The Union Pacific Railroad, the Golden State and Antelope Valley freeways, and two major aqueducts traverse the Valley. Oil, natural gas and power lines enter from the north through the Tejon Pass, cross the Valencia -Newhall community, and then exit the Valley near Newhall Pass. Governance The Santa Clarita Valley contains territory under the jurisdiction of two political entities. The unincorporated areas under the jurisdiction of Los Angeles County are addressed in the County's Area Plan, and the incorporated territory within the boundaries of the City of Santa Clarita is included in this General Plan. Both agencies have revised their General Plans to reflect the goals and policies of the One Valley One Vision planning process. The City's jurisdiction is located generally in the central portion of the valley, and is largely developed. The unincorporated area generally surrounds the City and much of it is either undeveloped or is developed with lower density residential and rural uses. However, there are several areas within the County's jurisdiction that have developed or are in the process of being developed with urban uses; some of these areas have been developed through adoption of specific plans, as described in Section F. The City of Santa Clarita incorporated on December 15, 1987. At incorporation, the City boundaries included 39.786 square miles and a population of about 130,000. From 1987 through 2006, the City processed 28 annexations, expanding its boundaries to include territory for which residents or property owners had petitioned to join the City. The City's 2006 population was 177,400, representing a three percent annual growth rate since incorporation (including natural growth, in -migration and annexation). The City's policy on annexation requests has been to welcome additional residents who wish to join the City and to provide new residents with full representation and City services. Both the City and the County have taken the position that residents in unincorporated areas have the right and responsibility to determine the jurisdictional boundaries that are appropriate for their area. 1-7 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction Historical Overview The earliest physical evidence of human occupation in the Upper Santa Clara River area dates from 7,000 to 4,000 years ago, and was recovered from two sites near Vasquez Rocks. The identity of the area's first inhabitants is unknown. The Tataviam peoples, Uto-Aztecan speakers of Shoshonean descent, began to reach the planning area in approximately A. D. 450. They were described as a distinct linguistic group when they were first encountered in 1776 by Spanish explorer Pedro Fages. The Tataviam lived primarily on the upper reaches of the Santa Clara River, east of Piru Creek and extending from the Antelope Valley to the San Gabriel Mountains. Archaeological data indicate that subsistence patterns and ritual practices were similar to neighboring Chumash and Gabrielino culture groups; these groups were hunter - gatherers, subsisting on acorns, yucca, juniper berries, seeds, and small game. Many of the place names in the valley, such as Castaic, Piru, Camulos, and Hasley, reflect a Tataviam linguistic origin. Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portola's chronicles of his 1769 expedition from San Diego to Monterey provide the first European documentation of the Santa Clarita region. The expedition passed north through the San Fernando Valley to Newhall and on to the Castaic Junction area, then west along the Santa Clara River to San Buenaventura, and from there north to Monterey. The trail blazed by Portola became known as El Camino Viejo (The Old Road). After establishment of the Mission San Fernando in 1797, much of the Santa Clarita Valley was used by the Mission for ranching. Known as the Estancia de San Francisco Xavier, the estancia buildings were constructed in 1804 near the confluence of Castaic Creek and the Santa Clarita River. With the Mexican Revolution of the 1820s and 1830s came secularization of the former mission lands. In 1839 the Rancho San Francisco, comprising 48,000 acres of the Santa Clarita Valley, was granted to Ignacio Del Valle, mayor of Los Angeles and later a state legislator. However, falling cattle prices and financial woes brought the ranch land back on the market in the 1860s, where it again changed hands several times before being purchased on January 15, 1875 by Henry Mayo Newhall. The first documented discovery of gold in California occurred in Placerita Canyon in 1842, near what is now called the Oak of the Golden Dream. Nearly 1,300 pounds of gold was retrieved from Placerita Canyon between 1842 and 1847. Anecdotal evidence has been found indicating that placer gold mining occurred in Hasley Canyon and other areas of the Valley as early as the 1820s. Various mineral resources discovered throughout the Valley spurred development of mining camps and settlements. San Francisquito Canyon was one of the first canyons to be mined and settled. Both copper and gold bearing quartz veins were mined into the 20th Century, although the rush was over by about 1875. In addition to gold, the local canyons yielded silver, lead, borates, manganese, titanium, gravel, agates and other gemstones and minerals. The upper Santa Clarita Valley was the first location of oil drilling in Southern California, after oil seeps were discovered by American settlers in Pico Canyon in 1865. (The seeps had been known for centuries to the Tataviam, who had used the raw asphaltum for waterproofing and other purposes.) Mexican General Andres Pico and other investors sold their oil fields in Pico Canyon in 1875, along with the oil company they had formed to extract and process the oil. Their California Star Oil Company (CSO) later became part of the Standard Oil Company of 1-8 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction California. CSO's new superintendent, Charles Alexander "Alex" Mentry, laid the groundwork for an oil town that became known as Mentryville, after deepening an older well, Pico No. 4, to produce a "gusher' on September 26, 1876. By the 1880s there were nearly 100 families living in Mentryville, which included Mentry's 13-room mansion known as the "Big House." Pico No. 4 became the longest -running oil well in the world before it was taken out of service in 1990, having pumped crude oil almost continuously for 114 years. In 1976 the well site was dedicated as a California State Historic Landmark, and a plaque now marks the historic oil well's location. Although the Big House, the 1885 schoolhouse and certain other buildings remain, most of Mentryville's early homes and company structures were either dismantled and removed in the early 20th Century, ravaged by fire, or destroyed by the 1994 earthquake. The site is now overseen by the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, which has begun renovation of the Big House. The completion of the Southern Pacific Railroad through the area in 1876, along with the development of the Pico oil field and construction of the Pioneer Oil Refinery in the mid-1870s, spurred an oil boom in the Valley. Pico Canyon oil flowed to the refinery via a pipe, and was refined into kerosene, lamp oil, naphtha and other petroleum derivatives. The remnants of the Pioneer Oil Refinery, which was the first viable oil refinery in the State, were damaged in the 1994 earthquake. Now owned by the City of Santa Clarita, along with 4.5 acres of land donated by Chevron Oil, the site is being evaluated for partial restoration as a historical depiction of an early oil refinery. American explorer John C. Fremont, who would later challenge Abraham Lincoln for the Republican nomination for U.S. president, arrived at Castaic Junction with his "Buckskin Battalion" in 1847, following the future route of SR-126 from Ventura. After camping for two days in the Santa Clarita Valley, he crossed into the San Fernando Valley near the present alignment of Sierra Highway. Near the current Universal Studios Hollywood, he accepted the surrender of California from General Andres Pico. Fremont's crossing point through the Santa Susana Mountains occurred at what became known as Fremont Pass, and is now known as Newhall Pass. In 1854, Phineas Banning made a 30-foot cut in the pass to allow the first stagecoach through. The Butterfield Overland Stage took the "Great Southern" route from St. Louis to San Francisco over Fremont Pass from 1858 until the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861. In 1863, under a construction contract awarded by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, General Edward F. Beale's workers cut a 90-foot deep passageway through the pass between the present alignments of SR-14 and Sierra Highway to improve the roadway. Beale also constructed a toll house when the pass was widened, and collected toll for the right of passage for 22 years before the County halted the practice. Beale's Cut was a vital route that served the Southern California area until it was bypassed by the Newhall Tunnel in 1910. By 1915, the Ridge Route extended from downtown Los Angeles north through the Newhall Tunnel and into the San Joaquin Valley. In 1875 most of the Rancho San Francisco was purchased by Henry Mayo Newhall, a San Francisco entrepreneur. Much of the Valley's history from that time has been linked to the activities of Newhall and the company formed by his heirs, The Newhall Land and Farming Company. When Henry Newhall purchased the Rancho, he knew the Southern Pacific Railroad intended to lay tracks north out of Los Angeles to join with the Central Pacific and its connection to the Transcontinental Railroad. A rail route through his property would increase its value, so he sold an alignment to the Southern Pacific for $1 and a square -mile townsite to the railroad's development company for another $1. 1-9 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction Three months after Newhall's land purchase, the Southern Pacific began tunneling through the mountains and the San Fernando and Santa Clarita Valleys. Built with Chinese labor, at 6,940 feet the San Fernando (Railroad) Tunnel was the third -longest tunnel in the United States when it was completed on July 27, 1876. As the Southern Pacific extended track to the north, the Central Pacific was coming south to meet it. The two companies joined track near Lang Station in Canyon Country in a "golden spike" ceremony on September 5, 1876. The following month, on October 18, 1876, the Southern Pacific began subdividing the town of Newhall. Initially the town was located at Bouquet Junction, in what would later become Saugus, named for Henry Newhall's home town in Massachusetts. Little more than a year later, in January and February 1878, the town moved three miles south to its present location at Old Town Newhall, probably because of better water availability from a natural artesian spring. The Pioneer Oil Refinery, which handled the oil piped from Pico Canyon and was initially set up along the wagon route in the Newhall Pass, moved to present-day Pine Street in Railroad Canyon next to the new train tracks. The earliest productive refinery on the West Coast, it operated until 1888. A unique feature of Santa Clarita's historical setting is the extent of early filming in the Valley, due to its proximity to Hollywood and the presence of distinctive topographic and geologic features used as settings for early Western films. The community of Newhall contains many notable Hollywood movie sets and is the site of the Walk of Western Stars. Some of the Western relics in downtown Newhall include the Tom Mix cottages, used as housing for the early motion picture industry; the American Theater (originally the Tumbleweed Theater) designed by Charles S. Lee and funded in large part by Actor William S. Hart in 1940; Melody Ranch (also known as Placeritos Ranch and Monogram Ranch), built in the early 1920s and owned from 1952 to 1990 by actor Gene Autry and used as a location for hundreds of Western films, television series and commercials; and the Walt Disney Company's Golden Oak Ranch in nearby Placerita Canyon. Heritage Junction on Main Street has been set aside for the preservation of several local historic structures. The Valley was also the location of the second -worst disaster in California history. In 1908, the City of Los Angeles obtained rights to the watershed of the Owens Valley. Under direction of William Mulholland, chief engineer for the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, the project was expanded in the 1920's into San Francisquito Canyon, where the St. Francis Dam was completed in 1926. From there the aqueduct traversed the eastern part of Newhall Ranch and crossed over San Fernando Pass to the spillway above the San Fernando Reservoir. In 1928 the concrete dam failed. The resulting flood of the river valley on March 12 and 13 caused at least 450 deaths and destroyed 990 homes and large areas of farmland. It was America's worst civil engineering failure of the 20th Century. In 1932-34, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power built a new earthen dam in Bouquet Canyon. By the 1940's, Santa Clarita's population had reached 4,000 residents. Six years later, the first high school was dedicated, and the first tract homes were built in Rancho Santa Clarita. From the 1960's on, growth in the Santa Clarita Valley was fueled by the need for affordable housing in proximity to the Los Angeles basin and San Fernando Valley. In 1963, Canyon Country was founded, and the community of Valencia was dedicated in 1967, with homes selling for $25,000. During the late sixties and early seventies, the College of the Canyons and California Institute of the Arts, established by Walt Disney, were established to serve the needs of the growing community. Magic Mountain Theme Park opened in 1971, bringing thousands of tourists to the area and providing a significant landmark. In 1975 the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital was founded, as well as the Santa Clarita Valley Historical Foundation. 1-10 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction Post-war suburban growth pushed its way north from the San Fernando Valley after the designation and expansion of Interstate 5 as a federal highway in the 1960s. Based on statistics from the County's Department of Regional Planning, the Santa Clarita Valley grew by over 45,000 dwelling units from 1960 through 1989, with over 20,000 units constructed during the 1980s. Rapid residential growth during this period led to a call for local government. In 1985 the Chamber of Commerce initiated a study on the economic feasibility of becoming an incorporated city. Two years later, the voters approved incorporation and on December 15, 1987, the City of Santa Clarita was formed, becoming the largest City to incorporate in the State's history. After incorporation, residential growth continued within both City and County areas and development of commercial retail, office, and industrial uses increased, particularly along the Interstate 5 corridor. According to County estimates, there are now approximately 56,000 dwelling units within the City and 24,500 units in County unincorporated areas. An additional 40,500 units have been approved (7,000 in the City and 33,500 in the County), and other applications for new development are pending. Moreover, planning for areas adjacent to the Santa Clarita Valley, such as Tejon Ranch north of Castaic and the growing cities of Lancaster and Palmdale to the north along State Route 14, are expected to impact transportation and other infrastructure within the Valley. A major challenge in future planning for the Santa Clarita Valley will be managing the anticipated growth within the north Los Angeles County region, in a manner that preserves both quality of life and the environment. F. Previous Planning Efforts The Santa Clarita Valley has been the subject of several previous planning efforts by both the County of Los Angeles and the City of Santa Clarita. Following is a brief summary of prior adopted plans. 1984 Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan (County of Los Angeles) The initial Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan was adopted in 1984, based on assistance from the Santa Clarita Valley Planning Advisory Committee (a citizens' advisory committee representing a variety of local interests and expertise). It was designed to provide decision -makers with a policy framework to guide development decisions in the Valley. Following its adoption by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors in 1984, two significant changes occurred which affected the Area Plan. The first of these was the incorporation of the City of Santa Clarita in 1987, including the communities of Newhall, Valencia, Saugus and portions of Canyon Country and Sand Canyon. Second, growth in the Santa Clarita Valley during the 1980's exceeded initial expectations, requiring revision of growth projections for population, employment, and housing. To reflect these changes, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors adopted a comprehensive update of the Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan in 1990. 1-11 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction Citv of Santa Clarita Plans After its incorporation in 1987, the City undertook preparation of its first comprehensive General Plan, which was adopted on June 26, 1991 by City Council Resolution 91-98. The City's first General Plan included the following elements: Land Use, Housing, Community Design, Economic Development, Circulation, Human Resources, Public Services, Parks and Recreation, Open Space and Conservation, Air Quality, Noise, and Safety. Various elements were updated from time to time to reflect changing conditions, requirements, and policies. To implement its General Plan, the City adopted a Unified Development Code, containing zoning and subdivision regulations, which was most recently updated in 2011. In 2001, the City adopted the Santa Clarita Beautification Master Plan, which contains citywide design guidelines as well as specific guidelines tailored to maintain community character within Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia. According to the document, "the Beautification Master Plan addresses concepts for streetscape design, landscape enhancement, gateways, and monumentation and signage, on both a regional and a community scale. The Master Plan strives to maintain the identity of individual communities while unifying the entire City through design". In addition, the City adopted a set of Architectural Guidelines in 2002 for the purpose of giving "clear direction for the renovation of existing buildings and construction of new buildings". These guidelines were updated in 2009 and retitled the Community Character and Design Guidelines. The Guidelines were prepared with the stated intent of retaining and encouraging architectural variety, promoting quality, and maintaining the scale and appearance of the City, with attractive development that preserves and enhances natural features and provides amenities for enjoyment of the community. Specific Plans Both the County and the City have used the specific plan process to provide comprehensive planning for large residential communities and business complexes in the planning area. As described in the State's General Plan Guidelines, a specific plan is often used to address the development requirements for a single project, such as a planned community. It may combine policy statements with development regulations, and typically emphasizes development criteria and standards. The text and diagrams of a specific plan address necessary infrastructure and facilities as well as land uses and open space, including programs and regulations necessary to finance infrastructure and public facilities. Specific plans may be adopted by resolution or ordinance, and although they are not part of the general plan, they must be consistent with the general plan. Table 1-2 summarizes some of the major specific plans already adopted within the planning area that govern land use and development for larger development projects: Since adoption of the previous City and County plans in the 1990s, the Santa Clarita Valley has evolved from a rural and suburban bedroom community into more of a sustainable community with commercial centers, balancing the small town charm with urban sophistication. Valley residents and policy makers have recognized the need for updated planning that focuses on the challenges and opportunities of the coming decades, leading to the One Valley One Vision planning process. 1-12 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction Table 1-2 Adopted Specific Plans in Planning Area Name Jurisdiction Acres Uses 2011 Status Newhall Ranch County 11,963 20,885 du* Two tracts pending 10,686 du Stevenson Ranch County 4,000 3,400 du, Partially built; 110 ac. commercial, Phase 5 pending 3 schools, parkland (2,467 du on 1,750 ac Northlake County 1330 3,623 du, Specific plan 2 schools, commercial amendment in area process Fair Oaks Ranch County 308 796 du Partially constructed; several hundred units to be built North Valencia I City 2,000 2,000 du, 636,000 sq. Constructed ft. commercial, 167,000 sq ft. industrial, open space, parkland and elementary school North Valencia 11 City 596 1,900 du, 150,000 sq. Constructed ft. commercial Porta Bella City 988 2,911 du, 96 ac Awaiting clean-up commercial/office, of hazardous open space, parkland materials and elementary school Downtown City 550 1,092 new du Adopted Dec. 2005; Newhall 1,017,000 new sq. ft. public street commercial improvements underway Vista Canyon City 185 1,100 new du, Awaiting 950,000 sq. ft. non- annexation residential, possible new Metrolink station *du=dwelling units G. Overview of the City of Santa Clarita Setting Located in a picturesque valley just north of Los Angeles, Santa Clarita is a premier community for raising families and building businesses. The City has committed to maintaining a quality living environment through long-term planning, fiscal responsibility, community involvement, respect for the environment, and support for business development. The City encompasses over 52 square miles, with a 2008 population of over 177,000. The number of housing units in 2008 was 58,714. 1-13 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction At 1,200 to 1,400 feet above sea level, the City enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, which is generally semi -arid and warm. Summers are dry with temperatures as high as 110 degrees F. Winters are somewhat cool with temperatures as low as 20 degrees F. Average rainfall is about 17.6 inches per year in the flat areas and about 27 inches in the mountains. The region is subject to wide variations in annual precipitation and also experiences periodic wildfires. Government The City of Santa Clarita is a general -law city operating under a council-manager form of government, with the City Council acting as the part-time legislative body of the City. Five members are elected to the City Council at -large on a nonpartisan basis, with members serving four-year terms. Elections are staggered every two years, with the Council -appointed mayor serving a one-year term and acting as the Council's presiding officer. The City Council appoints a City Manager as chief administrative officer, responsible for day-to- day operations of the City. The City Manager's duties include appointing department directors who are each responsible for department operations, including selecting division managers and support staff. Also appointed by the City Council is the City Attorney, who serves as legal advisor to the Council, commissioners, and other City officials. Assisting the City Council in serving the residents are a variety of boards and commissions appointed to address specific needs within their realm of responsibility. The Planning Commission is a five -member commission appointed by the City Council to review various applications for land use and land development in the City. The Planning Commission also provides recommendations to the City Council on legislative acts such as General Plan Amendments, revisions to the Unified Development Code, specific plans, and land use ordinances. Volunteer boards and committees formed by the City Council to advise them on issues pertaining to local neighborhood areas. In addition, a five -member Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission provides recommendations on recreation services and facilities. Community Character The City supports a strong and diverse economy through cooperation with local businesses, a highly -skilled labor pool, a variety of transportation facilities, available land and leasable space, available housing, and a high quality of life. Since 2000, local jobs in Santa Clarita have grown by 5.6% annually and the City continues to have the lowest unemployment rate in Los Angeles County. Top employers in the Valley include Six Flags California, Princess Cruises, HR Textron, Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital and the local colleges and school districts. Over 125,000 workers participate in the City's labor force, of which over 60 percent are college graduates. Median household income is over $84,000 annually. Almost 20,000 students are enrolled in the City's three colleges. A diverse array of housing communities meets the needs of Valley residents, including family -oriented neighborhoods, executive estates, apartments, condominiums, and senior communities. 1-14 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction City Accomplishments Since its incorporation as a city on December 15, 1987, much has been accomplished by the residents of Santa Clarita. Highlights from the last 23 years are listed below: ■ Three Metrolink stations and the McBean Transfer Station were constructed, and Santa Clarita Transit's ridership increased ten -fold. ■ The City instituted Youth in Government, Camp Clarita, an Anti -Gang Task Force, after - school latch -key care, and other programs for local young people. ■ A new 17,000-square foot community center was established in Newhall at a cost of $7 million, offering programs ranging from boxing to folk dancing, homework help, basketball, performance areas, and a Sheriff's substation. ■ The City has increased available improved parkland to over 240 developed acres within 17 parks, 10 of which were constructed since 2000. This also includes a 20-acre sports complex, completed in 2003, with an aquatics center, skate park, basketball, racquetball, and activities center. ■ An extensive trail system was planned, of which over 11 miles have been improved; when complete, the system will include 34.6 miles of trails. ■ The City undertook an urban forestry program with a goal of planting 1,000 trees per year; currently the City maintains approximately 50,000 trees. ■ The City initiated programs for street maintenance, street widening, graffiti removal, weed abatement, and sidewalk repair. ■ Construction of the 8.5-mile, $245-million Cross Valley Connector (CVC) began in fall, 2004. This 8-lane roadway will ease traffic between Interstate 5 and State Route 14 is open to the public which includes the Golden Valley Interchange/Bridge that was opened in 2005. ■ The Transit Maintenance Facility, built with environmentally -sensitive materials and design methods, opened in 2006. ■ The Veteran's Historical Plaza was dedicated in 2005. ■ In 2004, the City Council adopted the Big Picture Community Strategic Plan, developed with an unprecedented level of community participation and focusing on the City's key priorities. By 2005, notable progress had been made in every area of the strategic plan, including traffic management, air quality, youth activities, and economic development. ■ In 2005, the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan was adopted to aid in revitalizing Old Town Newhall. ■ Identified as "Best City for Industrial Development" by Los Angeles Business Journal, 2008. 1-15 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction ■ Identified as one of the "Top Five Most Business Friendly Cities" by the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation for the years 2006, 2007 and 2008. ■ Identified as one of the "Top 25 Retail Markets in California" in the California Retail Survey, 2007 and 2008. ■ Identified as the "Best Place to Live in California" by CNN/Money Magazine, 2006. ■ Identified as "One of the Top 25 Best Affordable Suburbs in the United States" by Business Week, 2006. ■ Named "Model Community" for the City's commitment and action to improve the air we breathe, by the South Coast Air Quality Management District, 2008. H. Planning Issues for the Santa Clarita Valley Through the planning and visioning process of the One Valley One Vision project, the County and City identified issues of Valley -wide significance that they felt would be best addressed in a comprehensive and coordinated manner. In recognition of the anticipated continuation of rapid growth, the One Valley One Vision planning effort focused on ways to manage this growth and addressed the need for mutual cooperation on the following issues: 1. Phasing of new development with provision of adequate infrastructure required to serve such new development, in a manner that does not adversely impact existing residents; 2. Planning for adequate sports, park and recreation facilities to serve both City and County residents; 3. Coordination on planning and construction of streets, including location, design, and timing of improvements, in order to increase mobility and access, and reduce congestion; 4. Preservation of an open space greenbelt around the urbanized central portions of the Valley, in order to preserve hillside areas and significant ridgelines, conserve biological resources and water quality, provide opportunities for recreation, and make more efficient use of existing urban infrastructure in the core areas; 5. Planning for integrated trail systems, including bikeways, walkways, and multi- purpose trails; 6. Planning for a balanced mix of residential and business -oriented uses that will increase job creation, promote a vibrant economy, provide a wide variety of goods and services to residents, and ensure adequate housing opportunities to serve all income levels and household types; 7. Preservation and enhancement of rural, suburban, and urban lifestyles and community character within the diverse communities comprising the Santa Clarita Valley; 1-16 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction 8. Conservation of significant resources, including historic and cultural sites, riparian and other protected habitat areas, water quality, and scenic areas; 9. Preservation of public health, safety, and welfare, through identification of natural and environmental hazards, including noise, seismic, fire, and airborne emissions, and designation of land uses in an appropriate manner to mitigate these impacts; 10. Creation of vibrant town centers with access to public transit systems through planning for transit -oriented development around rail stations; 11. Coordination on enhancing public and community services such as law enforcement, fire protection, libraries, and cultural centers; 12. Planning for those intensive uses with potential land use and environmental impacts which are needed to support the Valley's anticipated growth, including landfills, aggregate mining and processing, waste transfer and processing facilities, and similar facilities; 13. Planning for social infrastructure and services needed to ensure that the basic needs of all Valley residents are met, including emergency housing, transitional housing, social care facilities, medical care and related services, and ongoing coordination with school districts and colleges; and 14. Growing the economy at a rate commensurate with residential growth, in order to generate financial resources needed to support provision of services to the public at acceptable levels of service. Organization of the General Plan The City of Santa Clarita General Plan consists of seven elements along with an introduction as described below. Some of the elements, such as Land Use and Circulation, encompass the entire Santa Clarita Valley Planning Area, including both City and County territory as depicted on Exhibit 1-1, and are jointly adopted in the City's General Plan as well as the County's Area Plan. The Housing Element is applicable only to the City of Santa Clarita because the County of Los Angeles has prepared a separate Housing Element as part of the Countywide General Plan. In addition, the City prepared a non -required Economic Development Element. The applicable planning areas for each element are clarified in the following descriptions. Each element of the City's General Plan contains background information followed by goals that describe the end result to be achieved through the related policies and programs. A goal statement expresses an end, not an action. Goals are more specifically defined through policies. A policy statement guides decision -making and indicates a commitment of the City Council to a particular course of action. Implementation measures listed at the end of each element outline specific actions, procedures, and programs that will be undertaken to carry out general plan policies and achieve the intended goals. Introduction The Introduction of the updated General Plan describes the framework for the One Valley One Vision joint planning effort between the County of Los Angeles and the City of Santa Clarita for the Santa Clarita Valley, and provides background information on plan development and the 1-17 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction project area. In addition, the Introduction contains the Vision and Guiding Principles, jointly established between the City and the County based on extensive public input, to guide future development of the Santa Clarita Valley. Land Use Element The Land Use Element contains a land use map and descriptions of the designations applied to land within the Santa Clarita Valley to guide the type, intensity, and density of future uses. The element also contains goals and policies to ensure that new development and the use of land reflect community goals; enhance quality of life; are supported by adequate services, utilities, roadways and other infrastructure; ensure public safety through consideration of hazardous land use conditions; and conserve valuable resources and amenities within the Valley. This Element was jointly adopted by the City in this General Plan and by the County as part of the Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan. Circulation Element The Circulation Element contains a map showing major transportation facilities within the Santa Clarita Valley, including streets and highways, rail and public transit routes, stations and terminals, and airport facilities. Descriptions of each type of transportation facility are given in the Element, along with goals and policies to ensure that circulation needs are met in a timely manner to meet the needs of Valley residents. This Element was jointly adopted by the City in this General Plan and by the County as part of the Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan. Housing Element The Housing Element was prepared for the City's General Plan and contains policies and programs to ensure that adequate housing is provided to meet the needs of all City residents. The element addresses the need for affordable housing, housing for people with special needs, constraints to providing affordable housing, the City's progress in meeting its housing goals, quantified objectives for provision of housing, a survey of adequate sites for housing, a resource inventory, and identification of at -risk affordable units and methods of preservation. This element pertains only to the City of Santa Clarita. The County of Los Angeles has prepared a separate countywide Housing Element. Safety Element The Safety Element contains maps and policies to ensure that residents are not exposed to health risks due to air pollution, earthquakes, wildland fires, or other environmental hazards, and that adequate provisions are made for crime prevention, law enforcement, and fire protection services. While the County's General Plan contains a comprehensive, countywide Safety Element, the Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan contains specific public safety information and policies to guide development decisions in the unincorporated portions of the Santa Clarita Valley based upon local conditions. 1-18 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction Noise Element The Noise Element contains maps and policies to ensure that residents are not exposed to health risks or nuisances due to noise generated from freeways and high -volume roadways, airports, industrial and recreation uses, special events and other uses emitting loud sounds. Policies address sound attenuation measures such as setbacks, noise barriers, and buffering to protect the public health, safety and welfare. While the County's General Plan contains a comprehensive, countywide Noise Element, the Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan contains specific noise information and policies to guide development decisions in the unincorporated portions of the Santa Clarita Valley based upon local conditions. Open Space and Conservation Element The Open Space and Conservation Element contains maps and policies to ensure preservation of an open space greenbelt around most portions of the Santa Clarita Valley, in addition to preserving water quality, historic and cultural resources, scenic views, and providing recreational facilities to enhance the quality of life for Valley residents. This element combines the two State -mandated elements of Open Space and Conservation into one chapter, to more efficiently organize the maps and policies pertaining to each. While the County's General Plan contains a comprehensive, countywide Conservation Element, the Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan contains specific information and policies to guide development decisions in the unincorporated portions the Santa Clarita Valley based upon local conditions. A key component is preservation of resources within portions of five designated Significant Ecological Areas (SEA's) as set forth in the County General Plan. Economic Development Element The Economic Development Element focuses on three primary goals relating to economic development in the Santa Clarita Valley, including: 1) establishing a jobs/housing balance through quality employment opportunities for residents; 2) building an economic base for all communities through increased sales tax generation; and 3) developing economic wealth in the Santa Clarita Valley by attracting external monies to the economy. This Element addresses key goals of these communities as they relate to the economic prosperity of the Santa Clarita Valley. It looks at the area's strengths, the programs and organizations fueling the Santa Clarita Valley's economic growth and success, and the economic opportunities and challenges unique to the Valley. J. How to Use the General Plan In reading and interpreting this General Plan, the following guidance should be considered 1-19 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction The General Plan is the foundation upon which all land use decisions are to be based. The document should be used as a starting point for all development decisions made in the community. Any proposal for development, whether initiated by a private or public entity, must be analyzed and tested for consistency with the goals, policies, and programs of this General Plan. The City must assure and maintain consistency between this General Plan and any specific plans, ordinances, and codes regulating land use and development. 2. The Land Use Map is never to be interpreted by itself, but must be interpreted in light of applicable written policies. 3. Whenever an uncertainty exists regarding the location of boundaries of any land use category, circulation alignment, or other symbol or line found on the official maps of the General Plan, the following procedures will be used to resolve the uncertainty: a. Boundaries shown on any map in the General Plan which approximately follow the corporate boundaries of the City shall be construed as following these boundaries; b. Boundaries shown as approximately following property lines, section lines, half or quarter section lines shall be construed as following such lines; c. Boundaries shown as approximately following the centerline of a stream, creek or other continuously or intermittently flowing water course shall be construed as following the centerline taken at mean low water, and in the event of natural change in the location of such streams or other water course, the boundary is to be construed as moving with the channel centerline; d. Boundary lines shown as approximately following street alignments shall be construed as being located at the street centerline. Where a land use designation applied to a parcel is not mapped to include an adjacent street or alley, the category shall be considered to extend to the centerline of the right-of- way; e. Boundaries shown as separated from, parallel, or approximately parallel to any of the features listed above shall be construed to be parallel to such features and at such distances therefrom as are shown on the map. 4. The interpretation of policy should be consistent with the Guiding Principles of the Santa Clarita General Plan. 5. While the Santa Clarita General Plan is meant to be a guide for the public in determining allowable uses of private property, the public is encouraged to consult with members of the City's planning staff prior to investing in the preparation of development plans that might later prove to be inconsistent with the Santa Clarita General Plan. 6. All legally established uses in existence at the time of adoption of this General Plan are deemed to be consistent with this plan. Existing legal lots are not affected, and may be developed (following current development requirements). 1-20 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction 7. Pending subdivision applications which were submitted prior to adoption of this General Plan must meet the following General Plan consistency requirements: a. Applications pending, and deemed complete, as of the effective date of adoption of this plan, shall be found consistent with the Santa Clarita General Plan in effect as of the date such application was deemed complete. b. Applications pending, but not deemed complete, as of the effective date of adoption of this plan, shall be found consistent with the Santa Clarita General Plan in effect at the time of final City approval of the tentative map. 8. Pending discretionary applications such as specific plans, conditional use permits, and variances must be determined to be consistent with the General Plan in effect at the time such application is approved by the City. In addition to the direction provided by this General Plan, new development and land use activities are regulated by many agencies other than the City. Obtaining approval for certain types of actions may require proof of the availability of public services — including water/sewer, power, police, fire and schools — as well as fair -share contributions for public parks, libraries, streets, and other public facilities. Along with the standard building requirements and zoning regulations that apply citywide, development in hillside or riparian areas often requires special considerations and permits from local, state, and federal agencies. K. Implementing the General Plan California Government Code Section 65103(c) requires that local jurisdictions implement their General Plans upon adoption. The City's General Plan relies on policies, programs and implementation strategies set forth in each element, as well as the mitigation measures set forth in the General Plan Master Environmental Impact Report. The City's Development Code, Beautification Master Plan, Community Character and Design Guidelines, Specific Plans, and other applicable codes and ordinances also play a critical role in implementing the goals and policies of the General Plan. The Unified Development Code is the primary tool for implementing the General Plan. It regulates development through the creation of zone districts shown on the Zoning Map, with accompanying text that outlines the permitted uses allowed and development standards required within each zone. State law mandates that the City's Unified Development Code be consistent with the General Plan. Should the Unified Development Code become inconsistent with the General Plan, it must be amended within a reasonable period of time, and made consistent with the General Plan. The Unified Development Code cannot be amended if it creates an inconsistency with the General Plan. It is the City's intent to amend the Unified Development Code and Zoning Map following General Plan adoption to ensure consistency between development regulations and land use policies. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires that an initial environmental study be prepared for new development projects, to include "an examination of whether the project is compatible with existing zoning and plan." The CEQA Guidelines further state that a "project will normally have a significant effect on the environment if it will conflict with adopted environmental plans and goals of the community where it is located." If the Planning Commission or the City 1-21 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction Council determines that a proposed development project is inconsistent with the General Plan, the project may not be approved without an amendment to the General Plan. Through the CEQA process, the City will ensure conformity between development approvals and the General Plan. Subdivision regulation is another instrument for implementing the General Plan. Establishing statewide uniformity in local subdivision procedures, the State Subdivision Map Act (Government Code Sections 66410 et seq.) delegates the authority to regulate some aspects of the design and improvement of subdivisions to local government. State law also requires that a subdivision cannot be approved unless a finding is made that the project is consistent with the City General Plan and any applicable specific plan. The City will require that each subdivision approved in the City conforms to the General Plan. One of the statutory responsibilities of incorporated cities and counties is to "annually review the capital improvement program of the city or county and the local public works projects of other local agencies for their consistency with the General Plan." The City will submit its Capital Improvement Program to the Planning Commission annually to ensure that a finding of conformity with the General Plan is made, prior to its adoption. The General Plan is a dynamic and multi -faceted document, which defines and addresses the changing needs of the community. To assure that the General Plan is kept current, programs and policies should be reviewed annually to reflect compatibility with budgetary priorities and related program status. Long-term programs and implementation measures should be given consideration in budgeting to assure timely funding and development of infrastructure, public services and facilities. California Government Code Section 65400(b) requires that the planning agency "render an annual report to the legislative body (City Council) on the status of the General Plan and the progress in its implementation." State law further requires that the Housing Element be reviewed and updated at least once every five years. Through compliance with these measures, as well as through adherence to the maps, goals, policies and programs contained in this document, the City will assure ongoing implementation of the General Plan. L. Amending the General Plan Pursuant to State law, each mandatory element of the General Plan may be amended up to four times in each calendar year, and optional elements may be amended as needed. The City Council, Planning Commission or Director of Community Development may initiate a General Plan Amendment, or an applicant may file for an amendment by submitting an application with the City's Community Development Department. An amendment to the General Plan constitutes a project under CEQA, and is therefore evaluated for its environmental effects and consistency with other elements of the General Plan. General Plan Amendments must be reviewed for a recommendation by the Planning Commission prior to final action by the City Council. The State Legislature has recognized that occasions arise which require the local jurisdiction to have some flexibility in the time periods established for amending the General Plan. As set forth in the California Government Code, the following amendments are exempt from the General Plan amendment schedule. 1-22 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction Amendments requested and determined necessary for the development of a residential project, of which at least twenty-five percent (25%) of its units will be available to persons of low or moderate income; and 2. Any amendment necessary to comply with a court decision in a case involving the legal adequacy of the General Plan. It is the intent of this General Plan to provide a flexible planning tool for the community to utilize in achieving its long-term goals. The General Plan must respond to changing community needs, values and environmental conditions to ensure continued effectiveness of the document. Monitoring of the General Plan will be accomplished through annual reviews that will help in determining when revisions are necessary. Major updates to the plan, or portions thereof, will be undertaken to reflect new conditions, local attitudes and policy changes, as needed. M. Development of the General Plan California Government Code Section 65351 states that during preparation of the General Plan "...opportunities for the involvement of citizens ... and other community groups" must be provided "through public hearings and any other means the city ... deems appropriate." In accordance with State law and in recognition of the importance and value of citizen involvement, the City has created numerous opportunities for citizen participation throughout the General Plan development process, as described in Section B of this chapter, above. Four public workshops were conducted in diverse locations throughout the community in May 2007, for the purpose of receiving additional public input on the General Plan and to provide information to the public on the proposed land use map. Between 2008 and 2010, public workshops were held by the City's Planning Commission to review and take input on draft elements as they were prepared. These workshops included the following: April 15, 2008 - Safety Element; June 17, 2008 - Conservation and Open Space Element; July 15, 2008 - Land Use Element; October 21, 2008 - Circulation Element; November 19, 2008 - Housing Element; February 17, 2009 - Noise Element; and March 16, 2010 - Economic Development Element. In addition a series of public informational open house events were held in November, 2008, open to both City and County residents, and held at various locations throughout the Valley. The City worked with County staff and a team of consultants who assisted in preparing the updated General Plan. After completion of the initial visioning process, a Technical Background Report was completed and made available for public review, which contained information on existing conditions, development patterns, infrastructure, and needs and constraints within the planning area. This information, along with the community vision and guiding principles, formed the basis for preparing a draft land use plan. A circulation map was designed to support planned land uses and was tested with a traffic model by a consulting traffic engineer. Consultants also assisted with preparation of the noise model and housing programs, and with preparation of the General Plan text. Based on input received, individual elements of the draft General Plan text with maps was released for public review between 2008 and 2010, and seven study sessions were held by the Planning Commission to receive input on the draft plan from April 2008 through March 2010. The draft General Plan and related Environmental Impact Report were presented to the Planning Commission at public hearings in 2010 and 2011and to the City Council at a public 1-23 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction hearing on June 14, 2011. The Environmental Impact Report was certified and the General Plan was adopted on by adoption of City Council Resolution No. N. Vision and Guiding Principles The following Vision and Guiding Principles were formulated to serve as the framework for the preparation of consistent General Plans for the Santa Clarita Valley by the City of Santa Clarita and County of Los Angeles. They have been written in consideration of the extensive public input received during the One Valley One Vision process through surveys, stakeholder interviews, children's and youth activities, Visioning Workshops, and the Valley Congress. The Guiding Principles have been incorporated into various elements of the General Plan as part of the policies. Vision The Santa Clarita Valley is an ideal place to live, work, play, grow a business, and raise a family. The Valley is a mosaic of unique villages with growing ethnic diversity, each with individual identities, surrounded by a greenbelt of forest lands and natural open spaces. These villages are unified by the Valley Center activity core, a beautiful environmental setting that includes the skyline and Santa Clara River, a vibrant growing economy, and a rich history of common social values. The Valley's network of roads, transit, and trails links these villages and provides access to a wide offering of quality education, cultural, recreation, and social services and facilities. Life in the Santa Clarita Valley will continue to be exciting, enjoyable, and rewarding through a broad range of housing types, an increase in quality jobs in close proximity to all neighborhoods, and transit -oriented villages complemented by excellent schools, attractive parks and other recreational amenities, expanded trail networks, and preserved natural resource areas. As the Valley moves forward, it is crucial that sound and sustainable planning principles shape new villages and enhance established neighborhoods. Implementing policies to increase mobility and accessibility, increase employment opportunities, manage traffic congestion, improve air quality, and conserve water and energy resources throughout the Valley is essential to maintain the overall high quality of life. Guiding Principles Development in the Santa Clarita Valley shall be consistent with these guiding principles as agreed upon by the City of Santa Clarita and the County of Los Angeles. The principles will be carried out with the application of common standards for land use development, infrastructure and resource management, as appropriate or applicable. The principles implement the vision for the Santa Clarita Valley, which is intended to sustain and enhance environmental resources, economic vitality, and the social well being of its residents. 1-24 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction Management of Growth Growth in the Santa Clarita Valley shall account for the visions and objectives for each community and must be consistent with principles, as subsequently defined in this document, for the protection of the Valley's significant environmental resources. It must also be based on the availability of or ability to provide adequate infrastructure, schools, and public services, and must be carefully planned to benefit the community's economy, lifestyles and needs. 2. Growth shall occur within and on the periphery of previously developed areas, rather than as "leapfrog" development or in areas of critical environmental habitat or natural hazards, and taking into consideration accessibility to infrastructure and public services. 3. Development shall be prioritized in areas for infill and redevelopment sites within currently developed areas consistent with community character objectives and those for which the City and County have approved entitlements. Commitments for new development outside of these areas shall be made in accordance with the other principles defined in this document. 4. Higher density development, including multi -family housing and mixed use projects that integrate housing with commercial uses, shall be targeted in areas adjacent to existing and planned transit corridors, stations and key activity centers, such as the Valencia Town Center and portions of Newhall and Soledad Canyon Road. Environmental Resources 5. The natural buffer area surrounding the entire Valley, which includes the Angeles National Forest, Santa Susanna, San Gabriel, Sierra Pelona, and Del Sur mountains, shall be preserved as a regional recreational, ecological, and aesthetic resource. 6. The Santa Clara River corridor and its major tributaries shall be preserved as open space to accommodate storm water flows and protect critical plant and animal species. a. Uses and improvements within the corridor shall be limited to those that benefit the community's use of the river in its natural state. b. Development on properties adjacent to, but outside of the defined primary river corridor, shall be: ■ located and designed to protect the river's water quality, plants, and animal habitats, controlling the type and density of uses, drainage runoff (water treatment), and other relevant elements; and designed to maximize the full range of river amenities, including views and recreational access, while minimizing adverse impacts to the river. 7. The Santa Clarita Valley's prominent ridgelines shall be preserved and hillside development shall be limited to protect their valuable aesthetic and visual qualities intrinsic to the Valley landscape. 1-25 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction 8. Development shall be located and designed to minimize the impact on the Valley topography, emphasizing the use of grading techniques for development pads that mimic the natural topography in lieu of repetitive flat pads to the extent feasible and consistent with a community's open space objectives. 9. Development shall be located and designed to protect oak, sycamore, and other significant indigenous woodlands. 10. Biological resources in the designated Significant Ecological Areas (SEAs) shall be protected through the siting and design of development to account for and be highly compatible with the SEA resources. Specific development standards shall be identified to control the types of land use, density, building location and size, roadways and other infrastructure, landscape, drainage, and other elements to assure the protection of the critical and important plant and animal habitats of each SEA. In general, the principle shall be to minimize the intrusion and impacts of development in these areas with sufficient setbacks, or buffers, to adequately protect the resources. 11. New development shall be designed to improve energy efficiency, reducing energy and natural resource consumption by such techniques as the use of solar generators, recycling of treated wastewater, capture of storm runoff on -site, and use of recycled materials in building construction, native and drought -tolerant landscape, and energy and water efficient appliances and systems. Land Uses 12. The Santa Clarita Valley shall contain a diversity of land uses that support the needs of current and future residents including housing, schools, libraries, parks, retail, business and industry, civic institutions, medical and social services, cultural, entertainment, open spaces, and comparable uses. 13. The type and density of land uses in the Santa Clarita Valley shall be varied to reflect the special characteristics, life styles, and opportunities that differentiate its communities. A choice of urban, suburban, and rural environments will be provided. 14. Valley communities shall contain a mix of uses that support the basic needs of residents — places to live, shop, work, recreate, meet, socialize, and enjoy the environmental setting — that are appropriate and consistent with their community character. Regionally oriented uses that serve residents of the entire Valley or export goods and services may be concentrated in key business centers rather than uniformly dispersed throughout the Valley communities. 15. Development in the Valley shall be guided by a common set of land use designations and standards for comparable uses in comparable locations. These standards, however, may be varied to reflect the unique intentions for the quality and character of the distinct communities that comprise the Valley. 1-26 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction Residential Neighborhoods 16. The Valley shall contain a mix of housing types that meet the diverse needs of residents, and offer choices for the Valley's population and lifestyles (e.g. ages, education, income, etc.) that are appropriate and consistent with their community character. This shall include a combination of single- and multi -family, owner occupied and rental units within each community, and mixed -use (i.e., integrated housing with commercial or office uses) development in key activity centers. 17. The Valley is committed to providing affordable work force housing to meet the needs of individuals employed in the Santa Clarita Valley. 18. Multi -family housing developments shall contain adequate recreational and open space amenities on -site and be designed to ensure a high quality living environment. Their architectural treatment and building massing shall complement the characteristics of surrounding single-family residential neighborhoods. 19. Neighborhood scale development shall be encouraged by promoting mixed density of housing units consistent with community character objectives and limiting the number and acreage of multi -family units that can be developed in any single location. 20. Housing developments located in the more urbanized communities of the Valley shall be designed to create a sense of neighborhood by: a. promoting walkability and containing places that serve as centers of activity and identity (e.g. schools, multi -purpose facilities, parks, convenience services, neighborhood commercial centers, etc.); b. containing a mix of housing types, densities, and parcel sizes, avoiding large areas and an over -concentration of homogeneous density units; C. minimizing the dependence on, prominence, and area dedicated to the automobile; d. featuring architectural design treatments along all frontages of new housing to promote continuity of architectural scale and rhythm and avoid "blank walls"; and e. including pedestrian linkages, landscaped parkways and green corridors, and separated trails (e.g. pedestrian, bicycle or equestrian) where appropriate and feasible. Vital Economy 21. Commercial and retail uses will be expanded and new centers developed to meet the needs of the Valley's residents, as supportable by the market, to minimize the need to travel outside of the Valley, to complement (and not adversely compete with) existing uses, and to contribute to a balanced Valley economy. 22. New "clean" industries and businesses that provide job opportunities for local residents and enhance the economy shall be encouraged within and adjacent to existing and planned business centers/parks, and adjacent to transportation corridors. 1-27 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction 23. Older commercial areas and corridors that are economically and/or physically obsolete or deteriorated, such as portions of Castaic, Val Verde, Newhall, Lyons Avenue, Sierra Highway, Main Street, Newhall Avenue, Railroad Avenue and Soledad Canyon Road, shall be redeveloped for commercial, mixed use, residential or other appropriate uses that complement and serve adjoining land uses and can be adequately supported by the market. Where appropriate, redeveloped uses and buildings shall reflect the area's important architectural and cultural history. Mobility 24. A unified and well -maintained network of highways, streets, truck routes, bikeways, and pedestrian paths will provide access among Valley communities and to regional centers outside of the Valley. 25. Santa Clarita Valley's streets and highways shall be developed and maintained according to common standards for right-of-way, paving and other improvements, landscape, signage, lighting, and curb cuts for "like" street categories. These standards shall consider objectives for the character of the Valley's communities, consistent with public health and safety. 26. A continuous bikeway network shall provide circulation within each community, connect the various Santa Clarita Valley communities, and provide access to surrounding open spaces. 27. An integrated transit system shall serve the Valley (rail, bus, shuttle, other) offering convenient alternatives to the automobile, minimizing congestion and providing access to regional transportation systems, such as Metrolink. Infrastructure 28. The location and timing of development shall be coordinated with the provision of adequate water, wastewater treatment, storm drainage, telecommunications, energy, roads and other infrastructure. 29. Public infrastructure shall be improved, maintained and expanded as needed to meet the needs of projected population and employment growth and contribute to the Valley's quality of life. 30. Common standards for providing utility infrastructure (e.g. flood control channels, energy transmission, and telecommunications) shall be developed and applied throughout the Valley, in consideration of the character of each community. Schools and Public Services 31. The City and County shall work in partnership with the Santa Clarita Valley school districts and the State of California to ensure the development of adequate facilities and programs to serve the needs and achieve a high level of academic excellence for local students. 1-28 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Introduction 32. While the City and County do not have direct authority over the development of public schools, they shall continue to coordinate with the school districts on issues of mutual interest such as transportation services, shared facilities, and long-range planning for Valley schools. 33. Public services (e.g. police, fire, health care, youth, seniors, homeless, etc.) shall be expanded to support community needs and population growth. Recreation 34. The City and County shall recognize that trails are an important recreational asset that, when integrated with transportation systems, contribute to mobility throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. 35. A continuous and unified hiking and equestrian trail network for a variety of users and developed according to common standards shall connect and unify Santa Clarita Valley communities and be interconnected with the regional and statewide system (e.g., Pacific Crest Trail). 36. New parklands will be developed throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, with priority on locations that are not now adequately served. These shall encompass a diversity of park types and functions, including passive and active areas, in consideration of the recreational needs of the residents to be served. a. Common park standards shall be developed and applied throughout the Valley, consistent with community character objectives. b. A range of parkland types, sizes and uses shall be provided to accommodate recreational and leisure activities. 1-29 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use LAND USE ELEMENT DRAFT MAY 2011 PART 1: BACKGROUND AND PLANNING ISSUES A. Purpose of the Land Use Element State law requires that the General Plan include a Land Use Element that designates land for housing, business, industry, and open space, as well as other uses deemed appropriate by the agency (Government Code Sections 65302-03). Although all the General Plan elements are needed to comprehensively address multiple planning issues, the Land Use Element is generally considered to be the most representative of and essential to the General Plan, because it guides and directs the physical development of the community. This Element constitutes the required Land Use Element for the City's General Plan; in addition, it forms the land use component of the Area Plan adopted for the Santa Clarita Valley by the County of Los Angeles. The Land Use Element is the City's and County's long-term blueprint for development of property to meet the Santa Clarita Valley's future needs for new housing, retail, office, industrial, parks, open space, and other uses. The element contains a Land Use Map and goals, policies and programs designed to address the development issues facing the community through a variety of land use planning strategies, along with the type, intensity, quality, and location of future uses within the planning area. Issues identified within each of the other General Plan elements have been integrated into this element, to the extent that they affect land use planning. The element also serves as a statement of the standards and targets for residential population density and building intensity. The Land Use Element is the broadest of the elements in its scope, and forms the basis for implementing sound land use policies. The Land Use Element addresses existing development patterns in the Santa Clarita Valley planning area and establishes a framework for focusing future growth in a logical and orderly manner. All of the principles of community and land use planning are applied to the preparation and adoption of a comprehensive, long-term land use plan for the physical development of the Valley. The process of developing the land use plan involves analysis of existing land use patterns and projected growth; current and future availability of public services and facilities; availability of water and other needed resources; the need to protect sensitive habitats and natural resources; protection of existing and future residents from natural and man-made hazards; analysis of social and economic conditions and needs; and consideration of the constraints and opportunities inherent in the physical environment. Based on this analysis, the element establishes the distribution of land uses by type and intensity. In addition, the element addresses the Valley's development pattern as an integrated network of villages, each with its own community character. Equally important in the Land Use Element is the goal to provide all residents with a well-rounded and healthy lifestyle including a variety of jobs, housing, goods, and services to meet the diverse needs of the Valley's growing population. L-1 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Specifically, the Land Use Element serves the following purposes: The Land Use Element informs the public of the City's and County's land use goals, objectives, and policies for long-term development, and outlines programs designed to implement the stated goals. 2. The Element serves as a guide for the day-to-day operational decisions of staff and decision makers with respect to development matters. It sets forth policies on which to base recommendations and decisions regarding land use issues, and provides a basis for informing citizens and developers about the City's and County's policies on growth and development. 3. The Element establishes land use classifications for property within the planning area and sets forth standards of density and intensity for each classification, as well as projections of future population growth and its spatial distribution. 4. The Element addresses issues identified in other General Plan elements that affect land uses and development patterns, including circulation systems, infrastructure availability, housing needs, economic development goals, resource conservation, open space preservation, and public safety. 5. As a State -mandated element, it fulfills one of the requirements of California Government Code Section 65000 et. seq. for preparation of adequate General Plan documents. B. Relation of the Land Use Element to Other Elements of the General Plan State law requires that each element within a General Plan be consistent with all the other elements of the Plan. This section describes how the Land Use Element has been prepared to maintain consistency with each of the other General Plan elements adopted by both the City and the County. Circulation Element Closely related to the Land Use Element is the Circulation Element, which is directly affected by and has a constraining effect upon the viability of the land use plan. The Circulation Element contains a map showing major transportation facilities within the Santa Clarita Valley, including major streets (highways), rail and public transit routes, stations and terminals, and airport facilities. A logical correspondence between land use and circulation is essential for an effective plan. This Land Use Element was evaluated in conjunction with the system of streets and highways set forth in the Circulation Element, through use of a computerized traffic model analysis. The objective of the traffic model analysis was to ensure that streets and highways are designed to convey vehicles through the planning area at acceptable service levels when the land uses shown in the Land Use Element are developed. DRAFT May, 2011 L-2 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use In addition, the map and policies of the Land Use Element were designed to encourage reduction of vehicle trips and use of other transportation modes, including public transit, cycling, and walking. This goal is promoted through inclusion of mixed -use districts, which allow supportive services to be located in proximity to residential neighborhoods; inclusion of a master plan for trails into the Circulation Element; and designation of higher residential densities in areas served by public transit. The relationship between the Land Use and Circulation Elements cannot be over -emphasized. Traffic conditions and congestion are a direct result of the land uses that are approved and constructed in the planning area. When land use types are separated to an extent that residents are forced to take multiple vehicle trips to obtain services and reach employment centers, the number of vehicles on roadways will increase. The only way to allow continued economic development and creation of housing within the Santa Clarita Valley, without exacerbating traffic congestion to unacceptable service levels, is to plan for alternatives to use of the single - occupant vehicle and single -purpose vehicle trips. This can be done in a number of ways, some of which are described in the Circulation Element. With respect to the Land Use Element, emphasis has been placed on allowing mixed uses in order to allow residents to reach services in ways that are not exclusively automobile -dependent. Limited commercial service centers will be allowed within residential neighborhoods, and will be accessible by walking, bicycling, and bus transit. Multiple family residential uses will be allowed in regional and community commercial areas. More residences will be allowed within walking distance to rail transit stations to facilitate rail commuting to employment outside of the Santa Clarita Valley. Mixed residential densities will be allowed, to permit housing alternatives at all income levels and age preferences in proximity to transit jobs, and services. Through design of the Land Use Map in consideration of circulation patterns and needs, this General Plan will result in projected traffic impacts that are less significant than the previous General Plan, which was largely based on the separation of land uses. Housing Element The separate Housing Elements prepared for the City and the County each contain policies and programs to ensure that adequate housing is provided to meet the needs of all Valley residents. These elements address the need for affordable housing, housing for people with special needs, constraints to providing affordable housing, the agency's progress in meeting its housing goals, quantified objectives for provision of housing, a survey of adequate sites for housing, a resource inventory, and identification of at -risk affordable units and methods of preservation. This Land Use Element is consistent with the Housing Elements prepared for both the City and the County because the location and density ranges shown for residential land use districts on the Land Use Map have been designated in consideration of the housing needs projected for all economic and demographic segments of the Santa Clarita Valley's residents, including households with special needs and those with incomes of less than the County median. Adequate sites for attached and multi -family housing have been identified to ensure that the need for affordable housing has been met in the Santa Clarita Valley. Further, the number of dwelling units that can be built in the planning area based on the land use plan will ensure that the regional housing needs allocated to the Valley by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) will be met. L-3 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Oaen Space Element The Conservation and Open Space Element contains maps and policies to ensure preservation of an open space greenbelt around large portions of the Santa Clarita Valley, in addition to preserving water quality, historic and cultural resources, scenic views, and providing recreational facilities to enhance the quality of life for Valley residents. The Land Use Element was designed to ensure that irreplaceable natural resources and open spaces are preserved and protected from encroachment by future development. The Land Use Map designates a "green belt" of undeveloped land within and adjacent to the foothills surrounding the Santa Clarita Valley, with areas designated for rural development located between urban and suburban densities and the foothills. In addition, the Land Use Map was designed to protect Significant Ecological Areas and the riparian areas adjacent to the Santa Clara River and its tributaries, as well as ensuring provision of adequate open space for recreational purposes, water conservation and quality, and habitat preservation. Noise Element The Noise Element contains maps and policies to ensure that residents are not exposed to health risks or nuisances due to noise generated from freeways and high -volume roadways, airports, industrial and recreational uses, special events, and other uses emitting loud sounds. Policies in the Noise Element address sound attenuation measures to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, such as setbacks, noise barriers, and buffering. The Land Use Element is consistent with the map and policies of the Noise Element through its requirements for buffer areas between "sensitive receptor' uses and noise sources. Sensitive receptors include residences, schools, hospitals, preschools, and other uses for which intrusive noise is considered annoying and/or unsafe. Policies have also been included in the Land Use Element to ensure noise attenuation to safe levels within individual development projects. Safety Element The Safety Element contains maps and policies to ensure that residents are not exposed to health risks due to air pollution, earthquakes, wildland fires, or other environmental hazards, and that adequate provisions are made for crime prevention, law enforcement, and fire protection services. The Land Use Element is consistent with the Safety Element because land uses were designated in consideration of the locations of hazard areas, including known earthquake fault zones, areas subject to flooding or wild fires, unstable soils, and other environmental hazards. In addition, the Land Use Element includes policies to ensure that new development plans in the City are evaluated for conformance with accepted crime prevention measures, and that adequate law enforcement and fire protection services are provided to ensure the safety of City residents. DRAFT May, 2011 L-4 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Economic Development Element The Economic Development Element contains policies to ensure the long-term economic health and viability of existing and future Valley businesses. The Land Use Element is consistent with the Economic Development Element because land uses were designated in consideration of employment centers, village hubs, mixed use corridors and nodes. Further, the Land Use Element identifies varied housing types throughout the Valley to match the full range of employment types and levels. C. Land Use Categories When developing a Land Use Element and Land Use Map, certain terms are typically used to describe existing and planned land use types. Since these land use categories are referred to often throughout the text of this element, the following general descriptions are intended to clarify what is meant by the terms residential, commercial, industrial, and so forth. It should be noted that the following terms are general in nature and list uses typically found in most urban areas. The general land use terms listed below should not be interpreted as a description of permitted uses in this Plan; a general description of permitted uses in this plan is contained in Section L of this Element. • Residential — The residential category includes dwelling units developed at various densities and with varying housing types, including single-family detached, single-family attached multiple -family mobile home parks, and senior housing. Special residential uses include live -work units and group living facilities. Commercial — The commercial category includes retail and offices providing goods and services to the general public, and wholesale and service uses provided to businesses. Commercial uses also include food services, personal services, automobile services, entertainment and hospitality services, day care services, and regional commercial uses such as big box retailers and auto malls. Mixed Use — The mixed -use category generally includes commercial retail, office, and service uses intermingled with higher density residential uses, within a master -planned complex (consisting of one or more buildings) designed to ensure that residents are not adversely impacted by commercial operations or traffic, and that businesses benefit from the proximity of customers living nearby. The intended benefits of mixed -use development include a reduction in vehicle trips by residents to shopping areas, and the proximity of residents to employment -generating uses. Industrial — The industrial category includes heavy manufacturing, less intensive industrial uses that are typically located in business parks, and research and development complexes. Light industrial activities include warehousing, wholesale trade, and some assembly. Industrial uses may include fabrication and assembly of large items, resource extraction, processing of raw or recycled materials, and businesses that use or generate hazardous materials. L-5 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Public and Institutional — The public and institutional category includes government buildings, hospitals, libraries, schools, colleges, fire and police stations, solid waste facilities, museums, cultural and community centers, and other similar public uses. In addition, private schools, churches, convalescent care and other social care facilities, day care services, private meeting and convention facilities, and similar uses may be included. Special uses in this category include correctional facilities. It also includes the transportation and communication uses including freeways and major arterials, bikeways, railroads, park and ride lots, truck terminals, airports, train stations, multi - modal transit stations, communication facilities, and similar uses. • Open Space and Recreation — The open space and recreation category includes the Angeles National Forest and land used for private and public recreational facilities, conservancy land and other land set aside for preservation of open space and natural resources, and local and regional parks and multi -purpose trails. Golf courses and water bodies are also included. Rural Lands — The rural lands category includes low -density residential uses on large lots, in areas characterized by rural development interspersed with natural open space. Agricultural uses in rural lands include grazing, horticulture, row, field, and tree crops, and limited keeping of livestock, horses and other large animals. D. Meeting the Challenges of Regional Growth According to the regional planning agency for the Los Angeles basin, Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), a major challenge for Southern California will be continuing to meet the demands of rapid urban growth over the next several decades. A 2006 SCAG report states: For decades, Southern California has experienced some of the most dramatic growth seen anywhere in the world. Our collective population now surpasses 18 million. But it's not going to stop there. By 2035, experts tell us that another six million people are coming and that more than two-thirds of these will be children born to our growing families. Even as we have enjoyed a robust economy and weathered the recent downturn better than many parts of the state, growth and development issues are at the forefront of public concern. High on the list of complaints are increasing congestion, loss of open space, and an ill-defined but strongly held belief that "livability" is slipping away. As the region's Metropolitan Planning Agency responsible for preparing regional plans for mobility, air quality, and housing, SCAG urges all local planning agencies to consider regional needs when preparing their general plans. Issues such as air quality, open space, transportation, housing, water supply, and jobs are not confined within city or county boundaries. A unique opportunity for the City of Santa Clarita and the County of Los Angeles in this One Valley One Vision planning effort is to consider regional issues within an appropriate, meaningful context for the entire Santa Clarita Valley. DRAFT May, 2011 L-6 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use The challenges of determining where growth should occur and ensuring that housing is provided to new residents are also linked to transportation. Location of new housing without consideration for where residents will work and shop will result in more traffic congestion and air pollution. To address regional planning needs, SCAG has developed a regional growth vision based on four key principles: • Mobility — Getting where we want to go; • Livability — Creating positive communities; • Prosperity — Long-term health for the region; and • Sustainability — Preserving natural surroundings. In order to achieve these principles SCAG has formulated a plan for its six -county Southern California planning area calling for the following measures: • Focusing growth in existing and emerging centers and along major transportation corridors; • Creating significant areas of mixed -use development and walkable communities; • Targeting growth around existing and planned transit stations; and • Preserving existing open space and stable residential uses. SCAG's growth strategy calls for changes to land use and transportation trends on two percent of the land area within the six -county metropolitan region in order accommodate projected growth to achieve the goals of mobility, livability, prosperity, and sustainability. Within the Santa Clarita Valley, the two -percent growth strategy identifies areas with potential for growth in proximity to the three Metrolink commuter stations in Downtown Newhall, Saugus, and Canyon Country. (The existing temporary Princessa Metrolink station is being evaluated for relocation in the future to a permanent Metrolink station on the Valley's east side). City and County staff compiled growth statistics and projections for the Santa Clarita Valley when preparing the Land Use Map for the General Plan update. As of 2008, there were approximately 80,500 dwelling units within the Valley, of which 56,000 were in the City and 24,500 were in the County. Another 40,500 dwelling units had received land use approval, including 33,500 units in County areas and 7,000 units within the City, and several thousand more dwelling units were the subject of pending land use applications. The estimated population of the Santa Clarita Valley in 2008 was 252,000, with 177,000 people living in the City and 75,000 residing in unincorporated County areas. From these numbers, it is expected that growth, and the related issues of quality of life, will continue to be pressing for Valley residents and decision makers in the coming decades. According to a citizen survey in 2000, Valley residents identified traffic, growth, community, cultural arts, environmental issues, public safety, economic development, parks, open space, and transit as significant concerns. The primary objective of the Land Use Element is to demonstrate how projected growth can be accommodated within the Valley, and managed to maintain livability, mobility, sustainability, and prosperity for all residents. E. Valley of Villages The physical setting and history of the Santa Clarita Valley have combined to create several distinctive communities, each with its own special character, development patterns, and lifestyles. Topographically, many neighborhoods are separated from adjacent development by ridgelines or canyons. The location of the Santa Clara River and Interstate 5, both of which transect the planning area, also act as barriers that separate communities. In addition, the historical development of the Valley took place over a long period of time during which L-7 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan development occurred in different areas, at different times, and for different reasons. Old Town Newhall, Saugus, and Castaic developed along transportation routes, while Valencia and Stevenson Ranch developed according to master plans prepared by residential builders. Outlying areas, such as Val Verde and Hasley Canyon, developed as low -density rural areas based on their residents' desire for retreat from high -intensity urban centers. The diversity of settlement patterns within the Santa Clarita Valley is viewed as a positive aspect of the community, an acknowledgement of the area's history and topography, in recognition that the Valley can accommodate and provide diverse areas suitable for different lifestyles. However, the benefits of a unified approach to good planning cannot be ignored in favor of diversity. It may appear that Valley residents desire two seemingly inconsistent goals: maintenance of diversity and community identity, and a coordinated approach to orderly development. It is the aim of the One Valley One Vision planning effort to bring these two goals together into two workable planning policy documents, the City's General Plan and the County's Area Plan. The theme of these updated plans is "Valley of Villages," in recognition of the various communities and neighborhoods within the Santa Clarita Valley that wish to maintain their own distinctive character, while at the same time recognizing their place in the "big picture" plan for development within the entire planning area. The term "village" brings many images to mind. A village is a community in which people know one another, support local businesses, gather together at community events, and share common ideals about their future. The term "village" also implies a community that can sustain itself over many years without being severely impacted by economic setbacks, loss of housing, lack of education, inadequate parks or public services, and hazards or pollution that threatens its residents. Village residents typically send their children to neighborhood schools, use neighborhood parks, walk along neighborhood streets and trails, and work close to home. More than anything else, a village invokes the concept of quality of life based on a healthy living environment and productive social and civic interaction. Village residents can also be a part of a larger network comprised of neighboring villages, connected by transportation routes and sharing major community facilities that benefit the larger Valley area. The various existing communities identified in the Santa Clarita Valley, including approved specific plans are described below, and their general locations are indicated on Exhibit L-1. Newhall Newhall is generally located in the City of Santa Clarita and was one of the earliest permanent settlements in the Valley, established in 1876 in conjunction with the construction of the Southern Pacific Railroad. Henry Mayo Newhall, who had deeded land to Southern Pacific Railroad to lay track connecting Los Angeles and San Francisco, also deeded Southern Pacific a parcel of land to build a depot and a town to be called Newhall. Old Newhall was once the largest community in the Valley, and its early development, typical of many western towns, was based on oil, mining, and the railroad. Newhall maintains its historic character, and includes the residence of silent film star William S. Hart, whose 300-acre ranch is now a County park, museum, and tourist attraction. Prior to completion of the interstate highway system, Main Street (formerly San Fernando Road), which runs parallel to the railroad tracks and served as the community's main street, was a principal link between the San Joaquin Valley and the Los Angeles Basin. It still serves as the backbone for Downtown Newhall's commercial district. DRAFT May, 2011 L-8 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Commercial land uses are concentrated in what has been called Old Town Newhall, along Lyons Avenue and Main Street. Residential uses in Newhall include higher density multi -family and single-family uses, both north and south of Lyons Avenue. Some of the older single family and mobile home residences in east Newhall are in need of rehabilitation. The City completed a new 17,000 square foot recreation and community center in Old Town Newhall, offering a variety of programs and containing a Sheriff's substation. The Metrolink train station, which provides commuter services and a parking lot adjacent to the community center, was built on the site of the original Newhall train station. In December 2005 the City of Santa Clarita adopted the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan as a foundation for facilitating redevelopment and enhancement of the area. Based on extensive public input, economic analysis, and planning design, the specific plan encompasses 20 blocks (550 acres, including a portion of Hart Park) and provides opportunities for mixed -use and transit -oriented development. Approximately 700 new dwelling units and over 250,000 square feet of new commercial space are projected by the specific plan, in addition to existing housing and business in the area. Both new development and redevelopment are accommodated in the specific plan. L-9 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Because the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan was the first plan targeted by the City towards transit -oriented development, it will serve as a prototype for other districts in the Valley that will be clustered around transit centers. The Design Principles for Transit Oriented Development as identified in the document will be considered in planning for similar districts near other existing and future transit centers. These principles included the following: • Make great public places; • Make great streets (both commercial and residential); • Live above stores; • Live near transit; • Build a variety of buildings; • Create a variety of housing choices; • Provide for the right mix of retail; • Provide the right amount of parking, in the right locations. Implementation strategies in the specific plan included street improvements, provision of additional on -street parking and a future parking structure, re-routing of through -traffic to Railroad Avenue, bicycle baths, streetscape beautification, utility upgrades, affordable housing assistance, billboard abatement, historic preservation, and creation of a plaza for outdoor markets. The plan also contains detailed architectural guidelines designed to promote human - scale, pedestrian -oriented streets and buildings consistent with the old -town themes. Many of these implementation strategies have begun. The primary planning issues for Newhall include implementation of the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan through redevelopment efforts, attracting private investment combined with public funds to create a mixed -use, transit -oriented, pedestrian -friendly, live -work -play environment that will provide dining, entertainment, retail, commercial, and housing choices to both residents and visitors. This will result in Newhall providing additional services including parking amenities and a new branch library which is under construction. Other planning issues include the future extension of Dockweiler Drive to Lyons Avenue, the future expansion of The Master's College campus, development of the 4.2 million square foot Gate -King industrial park, and providing any needed drainage infrastructure improvements. Valencia The community of Valencia is generally located within the City of Santa Clarita and is part of the original 37,500-acre Newhall Ranch, a Mexican land grant acquired by Henry Mayo Newhall and later owned by the Newhall Land and Farming Company. Named after a city in Spain, Valencia was initiated in 1965 as a master planned community. Residential, commercial, and industrial developments form the basic community structure, supported by shopping centers, recreational facilities, schools, colleges, a medical campus, golf courses, professional offices, and other support services connected by a system of walkways called paseos. The community is home to the local Los Angeles County Civic Center, College of the Canyons, California Institute of the Arts, Santa Clarita's City Hall, the Valencia Town Center Mall, and Six Flags Magic Mountain. Developments such as the Valencia Gateway (comprised of the Valencia Industrial Center and Valencia Commerce Center) have made Valencia the largest center for business and technology in the Valley and have resulted in the creation of approximately 60,000 jobs. New industrial development continues west of Interstate 5 in North Valencia, including a postal distribution facility. L-11 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Both the City and the County have jurisdiction over portions of Valencia, although the majority of the land is within City limits. Since 1965 more than 20,000 residential units have been constructed and over 50,000 residents call Valencia home. The primary planning issues for Valencia will be promoting development that provides employment opportunities for Valley residents, and maintaining Valencia's role as an economic center for the Valley, as other regional commercial uses are constructed in neighboring areas. Saugus Generally located within the City of Santa Clarita and established in 1887, Saugus was named for the Massachusetts birthplace of Henry Mayo Newhall and owes its existence to the Southern Pacific Railroad. Saugus has a colorful history. The Saugus Speedway, originally designed in 1924 as a rodeo arena, was the setting for the last great train robbery in California, which took place behind the speedway in 1928. A Metrolink station is now located near the speedway, which includes parking and provides a transfer point between commuter rail and buses. The 80-acre Santa Clarita Central Park is located in Saugus. Residential areas of Saugus are located in Seco Canyon and Bouquet Canyon. Residential development has also occurred in Haskell Canyon and Plum Canyon. Commercial uses in the area primarily serve local residents. Saugus also contains older industrial development along Railroad Avenue, interspersed with newer commercial uses. The northern portions of Saugus are hilly, with tree -lined streets adjacent to hills covered with natural vegetation. The natural areas remaining along Bouquet Canyon Creek present an opportunity to enhance the area by creating a greenbelt connecting the community with other parts of the Valley. The primary planning issues for Saugus include addressing traffic congestion in established neighborhoods, vehicular access to activity centers and freeways, the need for beautification and public amenities such as roadway landscaping, trails, and the need for enhanced commercial to serve a broader range of needs for Saugus residents. Canyon Country Canyon Country is partially located within the City of Santa Clarita and partially located within unincorporated Los Angeles County, in the eastern portion of the Santa Clarita Valley along Soledad Canyon Road east of Saugus and extending north of Sand Canyon along State Route 14 to Agua Dulce. Portions of Canyon Country lie within both the City and the County. This area has the largest population of any community in the Valley and contains a wide range of housing types, including large -lot single-family custom homes, single-family tract homes, multiple -family developments, and mobile home parks. Commercial and manufacturing activities are concentrated along both sides of Soledad Canyon Road and along the northerly portion of Sierra Highway within the planning area. A business park/industrial hub, Centre Pointe Business Park, is located on Golden Valley Road. The City's Sports Complex and Aquatics Center provide recreational facilities serving all Valley residents, and the Via Princessa Metrolink station serves the east Valley communities. Commercial development is located along Soledad Canyon Road between White's Canyon and Sierra Highway, which includes the Jo Anne Darcy Canyon Country Library and a movie theater complex. Newer townhomes and apartment are located along State Route 14 between Sand Canyon and Via Princessa. In addition, there are residential neighborhoods in Mint Canyon and Tick Canyon within unincorporated County territory. A variety of architectural styles exist along Soledad Canyon Road. Homes along the northern section of Sierra Highway are generally rural and of very low density, with the exception of multi -family development near the intersection of Sierra Highway and Soledad Canyon Road. DRAFT May, 2011 L-12 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use One issue for residents in Canyon Country has been access to jobs in the Valencia area to the west. However, with the completion of the Cross -Valley Connector, traffic movement between Canyon Country and employment centers along Interstate 5 has improved significantly. Transit service improvements and additional park -and -ride facilities will also be evaluated to address this need. College of the Canyons opened an East Valley campus on Sierra Highway in Canyon Country during the fall of 2007. The campus, encompasses 70 acres and accommodate 8,000 full-time students when fully built out. The campus will operate as a full -service community college to residents on the east side of the Santa Clarita Valley. Planning issues for Canyon Country include an opportunity to upgrade land uses along Sierra Highway in the area of the new college campus, from Soledad Canyon Road north to Vasquez Canyon Road. In this area Sierra Highway will be widened to six lanes and there is an opportunity to provide services to area residents and the college on vacant land fronting the highway. Canyon Country residents have expressed a desire for higher end retail and restaurant uses in their area. In addition, older non -conforming uses in the area can be gradually phased out to upgrade the character of development and encourage new users to Canyon Country. This area will be planned as a mixed -use corridor in order to create jobs and provide new housing and commercial services for area residents, as well as for college students and faculty. The mixed -use corridor designation will encourage a mix of uses in a pedestrian - friendly environment, creating a focal point for Canyon Country. In order to realize the redevelopment potential along this corridor, a coordinated effort will be needed to address regional drainage infrastructure issues. Another planning opportunity for Canyon Country lies in the land adjacent to State Route 14 access points. Four existing on- and off -ramp systems provide direct freeway access to the area, and represent opportunities to enhance entryways into the community. Sand Canyon The Sand Canyon area is generally located within the City of Santa Clarita, southeast of Canyon Country and is comprised predominantly of low -density single-family residential uses. The area is rural with extensive stands of oak trees and is characterized by large estate homes and lots, many of which are equestrian and enjoy direct access to an equestrian trail system linking the community. The community is accessible via Sand Canyon Road and Placerita Canyon Road, and is bordered on the south and east by the Angeles National Forest. Sand Canyon is largely developed. A challenge for the Sand Canyon area will be ensuring land use compatibility between homes and adjacent natural areas in Angeles National Forest and along the Santa Clara River. Major planning issues include protecting the rural and equestrian character from development pressures to create more traditional subdivisions in this low -density area; increasing multiple purpose trail linkages; and providing an effective interface between residents and National Forest lands. In addition, development in the area must comply with the City's Special Standards District to maintain the rural community character desired by residents. L-13 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan The eastern portion of the Sand Canyon region, outside the Santa Clarita city limits, is home to disturbed lands resulting from current and past aggregate mining practices, former military industrial support activities, and Superfund hazard properties. It is to the benefit of the region to have these properties restored to an economic land use rather than left in a disturbed state. These highly impaired lands are appropriate for future conversion to land uses complementary to the surrounding topography, national forest, and Santa Clara River setting. Such land uses should be consistent with the policies of this plan including jobs/housing balance, shortened commute times, and siting of new uses largely within the footprint of the disturbance area. Such uses should be planned so as to avoid adverse effects on the Santa Clara River SEA. Placerita Canyon Site of the first gold strike in California in 1842, Placerita Canyon is generally located within the City of Santa Clarita and is now a rural residential area located northeast of downtown Newhall. Equestrian -oriented residential uses among oak woodlands typify development in this area, which still contains scattered ranches. Oil fields are located in the eastern portion of the canyon, west of State Route 14. East of State Route 14, Placerita Canyon is predominantly undeveloped with much of the land contained in the Angeles National Forest. Placerita Canyon is home to The Master's College, a private four-year liberal arts institution, and the Placerita Canyon Nature Center. Two historic ranches in Placerita Canyon have been converted to other uses but retain the rural character of the area: Melody Ranch is now used primarily for filming and to host the annual Cowboy Festival and other events; and the Golden Oak Ranch is used by the Disney Company for filming and other corporate uses. A substantial number of newer estate homes on large lots have been constructed in the area in recent years. Planning issues in Placerita Canyon include accommodating expansion plans for The Master's College; upgrading non -compliant older structures; extending sewer lines to serve existing uses throughout the area to protect groundwater quality; providing flood control and drainage improvements; providing additional vehicular access (possibly through extension of Dockweiler Drive); and opportunities for future development of the 100-acre site located at the westerly entrance of Placerita Canyon. In addition, development in the area must comply with the City's Special Standards District to maintain the rural community character desired by residents. Castaic Castaic, located in unincorporated Los Angeles County, developed from its role as a highway stop containing small cafes, hotels and automotive services along the old Ridge Route, which opened in 1914. By-passed when Highway 99 (now Interstate 5) opened in 1933, portions of the Ridge Route can still be driven today. When the Ridge Route was first constructed, it cut 30 miles off the Los Angeles to Bakersfield route and allowed the journey to be completed by automobile in only four days. The eight lanes of Interstate 5 now bisect Castaic, with new residential development on both sides of the freeway and the older portion of the community on the east side. The 600-mile long California Water Project has turned the community of Castaic into one of the planning area's major recreational centers. Man-made Castaic Lake, the water project's western terminus, is a popular spot for swimming, sailing, fishing, boating, and water skiing. The Castaic Sports Complex is located just south of Castaic Lake and provides sports opportunities for all ages. These recreational attractions have increased Castaic's growth potential, but have also resulted in traffic impacts, especially on weekends. DRAFT May, 2011 L-14 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Land use in Castaic is mixed, with new residential development surrounding freeway -oriented commercial uses along Castaic/Parker and Lake Hughes Roads. The community still provides important services and facilities to the trucking industry, and there is a need to ensure that long- term parking and servicing of big rigs does not adversely impact area residents. Castaic's commercial corridor is changing from a small highway oriented service center along 1-5 to include more goods and services for residents. There is potential for additional commercial infill development. In addition, there is an opportunity to expand services to recreational users of the local lakes. Also within Castaic is the Pitchess Detention Center (Wayside Honor Rancho), a Los Angeles County incarceration facility. A portion of the property is unused and presents an opportunity for future planning. Hasley Canyon located north of Val Verde and southwest of Castaic, is considered an outlying subarea of the Castaic community. With the exception of an older existing mobile home park, the area is characterized by low -density estate homes on larger lots amid scattered oak trees, and supports a rural equestrian lifestyle. Major planning issues for Hasley Canyon include maintaining compatibility of proposed development with the area's rural character. Los Angeles County developed a Community Standards District (CSD) for Castaic to address a wide range of planning issues for this evolving community. Regulations in the CSD include lot size requirements for new homes, hillside development restrictions, provisions for trail connections and protection of native vegetation, and buffering between incompatible uses. In addition, the CSD limited the expansion of trucking -related uses in the Castaic center and prohibited clustered subdivisions in the Hasley Canyon and Sloan Canyon areas. Val Verde Val Verde is located in unincorporated Los Angeles County, three miles west of Interstate 5 and is developed primarily with single-family homes in a rural setting, surrounded by chaparral - covered hillsides and scattered canyon oaks. The community is located near the intersection of San Martinez and Chiquita Canyon Roads in the hills north of State Route 126. The area was subdivided in the 1920's and lots were sold for use as vacation homes by African -American residents of Los Angeles. Today the area is ethnically diverse. The County of Los Angeles operates Val Verde Park, a community park with a swimming pool, open space, equestrian stables, and recreational amenities that provides a focal point for area residents. Major planning issues for Val Verde include potential nuisance impacts from expansion of the landfill in Chiquita Canyon, the compatibility of proposed developments with the village's rural character, and providing residents with increased access to employment opportunities, social services, and adequate infrastructure. Aqua Dulce Agua Dulce is located in unincorporated Los Angeles County in the Sierra Pelona Valley northeast of Canyon Country. The Antelope Valley Freeway (State Route 14) is located to the south, providing access to the community via Agua Dulce Canyon Road and Escondido Canyon Road. The community's setting is distinctively rural and completely surrounded by hills, imparting a feeling of separation from nearby urban areas. Vasquez Rocks County Park, located just north of Agua Dulce off of State Route 14, is an area of unique geologic formations that has been the site of many movies and television shows. L-15 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Agua Dulce has been ranching country since the 1870's. Mining activity in nearby Soledad Canyon first brought attention to the area, bringing more ranchers into the community. The construction of Sierra Highway and the Antelope Valley Freeway have increased accessibility into the community, bringing additional residents; however, the land use character remains rural and equestrian, with a small commercial "town center," and a privately -owned airport. Residents wish to maintain Agua Dulce as a rural community, but are generally open to additional low -density, large -lot, equestrian -oriented homes in the area utilizing non -urban infrastructure systems in accordance with its community standards district. There is also an opportunity to enhance the rustic village center to provide residents with more goods and services and serve as a community focal point. West Ranch (Stevenson Ranch, Sunset Pointe, Westridge, and Pico Canyon) West of Interstate 5 are various communities in unincorporated Los Angeles County that have a common setting and shared interests, generally referred to as West Ranch. One of these is Stevenson Ranch, located west of Interstate 5 and north of Pico Canyon Road, a master - planned community developed in phases under a plan approved by Los Angeles County. The project's 4,000 acres are largely developed except for the last phase, which proposes 3,467 residential units. Over 100 acres of commercial uses were included, nearly all of which are developed with regional commercial, restaurant and office uses along the freeway corridor (Valencia Marketplace). The project also included 45 acres of parkland. Adjacent to Stevenson Ranch is Westridge, a residential community that includes elementary, junior high, and high school sites. South of Stevenson Ranch lie the residential community of Sunset Pointe and the rural residential area of Pico Canyon, located west of The Old Road. Pico Canyon extends into both City and County areas, and includes the Santa Clarita Woodlands State Park, Towsley Canyon State Park, Ed Davis Park, and the historic oil town of Mentryville. Mentryville is the location of Pico #4, the first successful oil well in the western United States. Surrounding the developed areas are significant stands of oak trees and the Lyon Canyon Significant Ecological Area. The primary planning issues for Pico Canyon include compatibility of proposed developments with the Lyon Canyon SEA, the Santa Clarita Woodlands, and other parks and natural areas in the area. F. Specific Plans Specific Plan Process State planning law provides a process for local governments to use in approving large, complex development projects in a manner that provides for long-term buildout, phased with construction of infrastructure and public facilities, and supported with funding plans and implementation strategies. Such projects may be approved using the specific plan process, pursuant to Government Code Sections 65450-65457 and applicable local ordinances. Any applicant that meets the minimum requirements for filing a specific plan (including public agencies) may submit a project for review under these statutes, and each specific plan submittal will be reviewed on its own merit by the reviewing authority, based on whether the project is located within the City or the County. DRAFT May, 2011 L-16 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Every specific plan approved in California must be reviewed using the same process used for a general plan or area plan, and must include the following components: • The distribution, location, and extent of the uses of land, including open space, within the area covered by the plan; • The proposed distribution, location, and extent and intensity of major components of public and private transportation, sewage, water, drainage, solid waste disposal, energy, and other essential facilities proposed to be located within the area covered by the plan and needed to support the land uses described in the plan; • Standards and criteria by which development will proceed, and standards for the conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources, where applicable; • A program of implementation measures, including regulations, programs, public works projects, and financing measures necessary to carry out the project; • An explanation of how the specific plan is consistent with the General Plan and/or Area plan; • Any other subjects who in the judgment of the planning agency are necessary or desirable for implementation of the General Plan and/or Area Plan. Approved Specific Plans Significant portions of the planning area encompassed by the General Plan are included in specific plans that have already received land use approval. As these areas build out pursuant to approved specific plans and subdivision maps, the resulting land uses will be integrated into the Valley's development pattern and circulation network. Therefore, the following previously approved projects were considered in drafting the General Plan Land Use Element and other related elements. Newhall Ranch The County of Los Angeles adopted the Newhall Ranch Specific Plan on May 27, 2003. The planning area encompasses 11,963 acres and extends approximately 5 miles from east to west, and 5%2 miles from north to south, from about one mile west of Interstate 5 to the Ventura County Line, both north and south of State Route 126. The southerly portion of the site contains steep terrain and high plateaus of the Santa Susana Mountains; over 6,000 acres of the planning area will remain in open space, including two special resource management areas. The adopted plan will allow construction of 20,885 dwelling units, 629 acres of mixed -use development, 67 acres of commercial, 249 acres of business park, and 37 acres of visitor commercial uses. Neighborhood parks, a 15-acre lake, public trails, an 18-hole golf course, fire stations, a branch library, and school sites are also planned, along with water and sewer infrastructure. The specific plan states the project's intent is to provide a high -quality, master planned environment, which offers homes, shopping, employment, and recreational opportunities. Development of the project is expected to occur over a 25-year timeframe. A key design feature of the Newhall Ranch Specific Plan is its emphasis on the creation of interrelated villages, separated by significant open space areas and natural landforms. The plan avoids "leap -frog" development into the Santa Susana foothills and instead accommodates L-17 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan projected growth in areas adjacent to existing and planned infrastructure, urban services, transportation routes and employment centers. Villages proposed by the project include Landmark Village, Mission Village, Homestead Village, and Potrero Village. Natural landmarks and topographical features define each village. According to the specific plan, dividing the large project into villages allows for the creation of convenient village centers and gives future residents optimal access to commercial, recreational, and public facilities. In addition, this design gives residents access to nature by providing undeveloped open space accessible by trails from each village. Land uses were located to accommodate and preserve major natural Iandforms and significant environmental features, such as the river corridor, ridgelines, hillsides, creeks, bluffs, and oak woodlands. Each village and its central activity area will be allowed to develop a unique sense of identity, inspired by the natural features of the site. The village concept was designed to provide residents with a greater sense of identity with their community. Through its design and planned development pattern, the Newhall Ranch Specific Plan reinforces the theme for the Santa Clarita Valley as a Valley of Villages. Northlake The Northlake Specific Plan was approved for 3,623 residential units, both single family and multi -family, on 1,330 acres located two miles north of Castaic. The plan also calls for 450 acres of open space, school sites, and a golf course; however, the project proponents have requested revisions to the proposed project amenities that are under review by Los Angeles County. When developed, this project will be considered a part of the Castaic village community. Canyon Park (Fair Oaks Ranch) The Canyon Park Specific Plan (commonly known as Fair Oaks Ranch) is a residential development located between Sierra Highway and State Route 14, near Via Princessa. The project includes 4,763 multi -family units and 637 single-family units on approximately 308 acres, and is nearly built -out. The project is bisected by the Antelope Valley Freeway and contains no commercial uses. Therefore, there is an opportunity to create a service center for Fair Oaks Ranch in the vicinity of the project. Whittaker Bermite Property The 989-acre Whittaker Bermite site is situated in the center of the City and was used for over 80 years as a production site for military explosives and flares by various manufacturers. Manufacturing operations ceased in 1987. During these years, manufacturing and testing of various chemicals on the site involved use and improper disposal of hazardous materials, resulting in chemical contamination of both soil and groundwater. Directly beneath the site lies the Saugus Aquifer, a significant groundwater source for the Valley. Since manufacturing operations ended, remediation of soil and groundwater contamination (including perchlorate) has been ongoing; however, more progress must be made prior to redevelopment of the site. The Porta Bella Specific Plan was approved for the property, which proposed clean-up of contaminants and re -use of the site for mixed uses, including 1,244 single-family units, 1,667 multi -family units, 96 acres of commercial and office uses, 407 acres of open space, and 42 acres of recreational use. Extension of major roadways designed to traverse the planning area include Via Princessa, Magic Mountain Parkway, and Santa Clarita Parkway. However, more work is needed to ensure site clean-up and the location of uses in an appropriate manner to avoid future health risks. The City has joined environmental agencies and the water district in promoting remediation of this brownfield site and re -use of the property for productive purposes. DRAFT May, 2011 L-18 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Downtown Newhall Specific Plan As noted above in the description of Newhall, the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan has been adopted by the City to encourage mixed -use and transit -oriented development in the historic community of Newhall, in order to promote new investment, spur economic development, and create new residential opportunities in this area. Other opportunities include creation of an arts district in the vicinity of existing theaters in the area, and construction of a new library. The Downtown Newhall Specific Plan was adopted in 2005. Valencia Specific Plans The North Valencia Specific Plan was adopted in 1998. The project encompassed 707 acres generally bordered by Newhall Ranch Road, Bouquet Canyon Road, Magic Mountain Parkway, east of San Francisquito Creek. The Specific Plan provided for a mix of residential and commercial uses, open space, and an industrial center. A significant segment of the Santa Clara River was preserved as open space as part of the specific plan. The North Valencia Specific Plan No. 2 was adopted in 2000 for 596 acres in the northern portion of the City, generally located north of Newhall Ranch Road west of McBean Parkway. The Specific Plan called for mixed -use development, including residential, industrial and commercial uses. A major component of this project was preservation of open space in environmentally sensitive areas along San Francisquito Creek. Both of these Specific Plan areas have been fully built out Vista Canyon Specific Plan On May 10, 2011 the City Council adopted the Vista Canyon Specific Plan subject to annexation to the City. This project, which is in the Canyon Country area, includes a significant employment center and town center for the eastern Santa Clarita Valley. The Vista Canyon project is expected to create between 2,500 and 4,000 permanent jobs, the majority of these being associated with the corporate office campus, professional office space retail uses integrated around a "Main Street." Vista Canyon Ranch also proposes the development of 1,100 dwelling units and 950,000 square feet of commercial floor area, together with related infrastructure, including a new Multi - Modal Transportation Station (Metrolink Station and Bus Transfer Station) and water reclamation plant (which would provide recycled water for irrigation use on- and off -site). The project would add another 21 acres of parks/recreation facilities. The developers are proposing a new City park —the ten -acre Oak Park. Other recreational amenities include a Town Green, a Community Garden, the River Education/Community Center and project trails, including significant extensions of the Santa Clara River Trail. Up to six private recreational facilities would be constructed throughout the project. As part of the project proposal, there are approximately 13 acres of new public streets, including the extension of Lost Canyon Road from Fair Oaks Ranch to Vista Canyon Road and the construction of the Vista Canyon Road Bridge to connect Lost Canyon Road and Soledad Canyon Road. L-19 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Pending and Future Specific Plans At the time this General Plan was adopted, several specific plan projects were in the process of being prepared for properties within the planning area, but were not yet ready for public hearings or land use decisions. The City and County agreed that these projects would not be shown on the Land Use Map or reflected in the City's General Plan or the County's Area Plan until such time as each such specific plan project is completed and reviewed, in conjunction with an environmental document prepared to meet the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act, and circulated for public review and input. However, the decision not to reflect these projects in the City's General Plan or the County's Area Plan until the required review process for each project is completed should not be interpreted to mean that any of the pending specific plans will or will not be approved in the future. Nothing in this General Plan shall be interpreted to preclude the future review of any application for a specific plan that is pending at the time of General Plan adoption. If and when the applicants for each pending specific plan project complete the requirements for review and approval, the decision on each project will be made based on the merits of the project, which shall include conformance with all applicable policies of the City's General Plan or the County's Area Plan. In addition, other specific plans may be undertaken in the future that are not yet identified, and each specific plan will be evaluated based on its own merits and conformance with the applicable policies of the City's General Plan or County's Area Plan. It should be noted that both the City and the County encourage use of the specific plan process for preparation of comprehensive master plans for development. This process allows for flexibility that can lead to innovative design solutions beyond that allowed by regulations in the zoning ordinance. Particularly in mixed -use developments where walkable, pedestrian -oriented neighborhoods are desired, such as near transit centers, the specific plan process is encouraged. Policies have been included in this element to encourage preparation of specific plans where appropriate to meet the goals for more healthy, vibrant, and attractive communities. G. Demographic Characteristics of the Santa Clarita Valley Past Population Trends A significant amount of the population growth in Los Angeles County over the past two decades has occurred in North Los Angeles County, which includes both the Santa Clarita Valley and the Antelope Valley (including the cities of Palmdale and Lancaster). In 2000 the City of Santa Clarita was the fourth largest city within the County in terms of population (following Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Glendale). The fastest -growing cities from 1990 to 2000 were Santa Clarita, Palmdale and Lancaster, which maintained annual average growth rates significantly higher than the County as a whole. During that decade, the Santa Clarita Valley grew by almost 60,000 residents to reach 212,611 by 2000, a population growth of over 39 percent. DRAFT May, 2011 L-20 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use The Valley's population has diversified as a result of this growth, with the percentage of residents who are of Hispanic, Asian, African -American, and mixed ethnicity backgrounds growing by over 75 percent between 1990 and 2000 (from 41,555 to 73,733). Households within the Valley had a higher average household income than County residents as a whole ($83,900 in the Valley compared to $63,909 as a Countywide average in 2000). The population continues to reflect larger households than the Countywide average, indicative of young families with children. Average household size increased from 2.93 to 3.09 persons per household over the Census decade. In the 2000 Census, the largest age group represented in the Valley was the "5 to 17" age bracket. Almost a third of the population in the planning area is under the age of 18, and less than 10 percent of the population in 2000 were in the over 65-year age bracket. Proiections for Population and Households Based on a detailed analysis of the planning area conducted by traffic analysis zones, staff from the City and County have determined that population of the Santa Clarita Valley at full build -out of the uses shown on the Land Use Maps of the City's General Plan and the County's Area Plan will be approximately 460,000 to 485,000 residents, comprising approximately of 150,000 to 155,000 households. This analysis was conducted based on the need to project ultimate development in terms of various indicators, including dwelling units, commercial -industrial space, job creation, water use, traffic generation, noise generation, housing needs, park needs, and other public services and facilities. In compiling these projections, staff members from the City and County planning and traffic divisions reviewed data from multiple sources, including existing geographic information system (GIS) data layers, existing and proposed zoning, existing and proposed general plan land use designations, property subdivisions, existing development patterns, pending development applications, approved planning entitlements, topographic and environmental constraints, and other relevant information. The methodology used by staff to develop these detailed demographic projections involved the following steps: Staff prepared projections for each traffic analysis zone (TAZ) contained in the traffic model. For purposes of traffic modeling, a TAZ is a portion of land within the planning area in which certain land uses have been designated, the development of which is expected to generate new vehicle trips to serve future development. Only undeveloped or under-utilized land will be expected to be used for new development that will generate new vehicle trips. Therefore, each TAZ must be analyzed to determine the percentage of land that is already fully built -out, and the amount of land that is available for new development or rebuilding. There are 455 TAZs in the traffic model for the planning area. 2. Staff compared each TAZ with a current aerial photograph and Planning Department records to determine the amount of developable land in each one. Land was considered to be developable if it was vacant or under-utilized, privately owned, designated and zoned for future development, and free of major constraints such as ridgelines and floodways. 3. For undeveloped and under-utilized land within each TAZ, staff estimated the projected actual build -out capacity under the draft Land Use Map, considering parcelization, surrounding development, access, topography, drainage patterns, infrastructure capacity, and similar site constraints. L-21 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan 4. The result of this analysis was an estimated build -out capacity for each TAZ in terms of dwelling unit number and type; non-residential development potential (including commercial, business park, retail, and institutional space); public uses, including government and school facilities, parks and open space; and land devoted to infrastructure (such as streets and highways, transmission corridors, and flood control easements). The projections generated from the TAZ analysis represent staff's best efforts to achieve a realistic vision of actual build -out potential for the planning area. In preparing the One Valley One Vision land use projections, staff acknowledged that portions of the planning area are already largely developed, and that the City's General Plan and the County's Area Plan are not based on a "clean slate" of vacant, undeveloped land. Existing uses and development patterns must be recognized in planning for new uses. For purposes of a theoretical comparison, the TAZ analysis could be compared to the "worst case" build -out projections of the Land Use Maps of the City's General Plan and County's Area Plan. The worst case scenario assumes that all existing uses are subject to demolition, reconstruction, or intensification to achieve the maximum density allowed by the Land Use Map. For example, if an area is designated for single-family residential uses at five dwelling units per acre and the area is already developed at four dwellings per acre, the worst case scenario assumes that the existing subdivisions would be replaced with new subdivisions at a higher density, or that existing units would be subdivided into multi -family structures to achieve the higher density. Because many areas of the Santa Clarita Valley have been developed within the last 20 years with structures that have useful life -spans of 50 years or longer, staff determined that it would be unreasonable to assume that all existing development would be replaced with new development at the highest possible density allowed by the Land Use Map. For this reason, the "worst case" scenario under the land use plan was not used as the basis for demographic projections. Instead, the TAZ analysis described above formed the basis for reasonable build -out projections of land use, dwelling units, population, and employment. H. Economic Issues for the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Assets in the Valley The Santa Clarita Valley contains a wide variety of retail, office, industrial, medical, and entertainment centers that provide employment, goods, and services to both regional and local market areas. As an example, the Valencia Gateway consists of six commerce centers, including the regional mall, auto mall, office, and industrial parks; contains 4,700 acres; and houses more than 5,000 businesses. At build -out, the Gateway will encompass 22.5 million square feet. The following summary of some of the major economic assets in the Valley is intended to be representative of the quality and scale of these developments, rather than a complete listing of all business projects in the planning area. Retail Centers. Primary shopping districts in the Valley include the following • Valencia Marketplace — a power center located west of Interstate 5 in Stevenson Ranch, containing a variety of big box anchor stores and supportive retail and food establishments; DRAFT May, 2011 L-22 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use • Westfield Valencia Town Center — a regional shopping mall with almost 2 million square feet of retail, restaurants, and office space, and a cinema complex. In 2010, a 300,000- square foot expansion of the mall was opened with the goal of adding 40 new retailers, more outdoor pedestrian plazas and seating, and children's play areas; • Old Town Newhall — as planned within the adopted Downtown Newhall Specific Plan, this area has potential for growth into a prime specialty retail and dining area with a direct rail link to Los Angeles; • The Valencia Auto Center - home to over 20 auto dealer brands located in central Valencia; • The Plaza at Golden Valley — a lifestyle center on the east side of SR-14 at Golden Valley Road in Canyon Country, slated for 618,000 square feet of retail space for home and discount department stores, restaurants, specialty retail, a fire station and clinic. Office Parks: Primary office parks in the Valley are generally located within the City adjacent to the Golden State Freeway (Interstate 5) and include the following: • Valencia Corporate Center — an 80 acre office park with 1.6 million square feet of office space; • Town Center Drive — a 23-acre office park with 395,000 square feet of office space. Industrial Parks: Primary industrial parks in the Valley include the following: • Valencia Industrial Center - a 1,150 acre business park with 10.4 million square feet of manufacturing and warehousing space; • Rye Canyon Business Park — a 377 acre business park with 3.1 million square feet of office, manufacturing and warehousing space; • Gate King Industrial Park — a 203 acre business park with 4.2 million square feet of manufacturing and warehousing space approved but not yet constructed; • Valencia Commerce Center— a 1,600 acre business park with 12.9 million square feet of manufacturing and warehousing space; • Centre Pointe Business Park — a 240 acre business park with 4.5 million square feet of manufacturing, commercial and warehousing space. Medical Center. The Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital (HMNMH) campus, located in west Valencia with 750 employees, includes a 230-bed inpatient facility, medical offices and outpatient services that provide health services to Valley residents. The HMNMH medical campus currently includes the Santa Clarita Valley's only trauma center. The approved 15-year HMNMH Master Plan includes an additional inpatient building, three medical offices, on -site parking facilities, and a helipad. L-23 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Entertainment Center. Six Flags Magic Mountain and Six Flags Hurricane Harbor theme parks together attract more than 3 million annual visitors from the national and international tourist markets with world -class roller coasters and water rides. The Six Flags theme parks are jointly one of the Santa Clarita Valley's largest employers, providing 3,900 jobs during the summer months. Higher Education Institutions: The Santa Clarita Valley is home to three colleges, with a total enrollment of over 15,000 students and a variety of educational programs providing job training and employment development, as described below: College of the Canyons (COC) — a full -service community college with an enrollment of approximately 16,000 students and two locations, the East and West Valley campuses. COC provides several award -winning programs focused on economic and workforce development of the Santa Clarita Valley, including the Center for Applied Competitive Technologies, the Advanced Technology Incubator, the Small Business Development center, and additional programs that retrain the existing workforce with marketable skill sets targeted to existing business industry clusters. • California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) — the nation's first art institute to offer Bachelors of Fine Arts and Master of Fine Arts in both the visual and performing arts, CalArts is dedicated to training and nurturing the next generation of professional artists, fostering brilliance and innovation within the broadest context possible. The Master's College — a private four-year liberal arts college; a 10-year Master Plan was approved in 2009 which will add additional educational facilities, dormitories and a new chapel/auditorium. Transportation Links: The location of the Santa Clarita Valley at the confluence of major highway and rail corridors provides an excellent opportunity to move both people and freight efficiently in and out of the Valley. These links include the following: Freeways - Interstate 5 provides links between the Los Angeles basin, the San Joaquin/Central Valley, and northern California. State Route 14 provides access to Palmdale and Lancaster, and to major vacation resorts along the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains. State Route 126 provides access to the coastal areas of Ventura County. Just to the south of the planning area, Interstate 210 provides links to the San Gabriel Valley and Inland Empire region of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. Rail — Metrolink, a service of the Southern California Regional Rail Authority, is a regional rail system providing commuter and passenger service between the Valley and employment centers in the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles, and other areas to the south. There are three Metrolink stations in the Santa Clarita Valley, which are served by a public bus system. In addition, plans for a future high-speed rail linking northern and southern California show a route generally following State Route 14 through the Newhall Pass. Freight rail service is provided by Union Pacific, using the same tracks as Metrolink. Freight rail spurs service some of the industrial areas of the community. Airports — the Valley has access to the Los Angeles International Airport, the Bob Hope (formerly Burbank/Glendale/Pasadena) Airport, and the Palmdale Airport. The Agua Dulce Airport is also located in the Santa Clarita Valley. DRAFT May, 2011 L-24 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Emplovment Trends From 1992 to 2005, almost 40,000 new jobs were created in the Santa Clarita Valley. Between 2000 and 2005, job growth averaged about 3,900 jobs per year. Most of this job growth occurred in the manufacturing, services, retail trade, and construction sectors. The planning area is becoming a significant employment center in north Los Angeles County. Growth in construction was due to the rapid rate of development in the Valley since 1990, but construction as a component of the economy will slow as the Valley builds out and construction activities decline. More lasting are jobs in the manufacturing sector, which has added jobs in the Valley; this sector is involved in manufacture of machinery, transportation equipment, and electronics. Wholesale trade also showed an increase in job creation, reflecting the Valley's excellent location for warehousing and distribution of goods. The Services sector accounted for the greatest number of new jobs in the planning area, adding 18,960 new jobs between 1992 and 2005. Nearly half of these were in Business Services, including office workers and support staff. Job growth in other areas included Transportation and Utilities, and Retail Trade. The total number of jobs in the Santa Clarita Valley in 2005 was 124,200, of which about 60 percent (74,889) were located within the City limits. The remaining 49,311 jobs were located in the unincorporated County areas, primarily west of Interstate 5 within Magic Mountain, Stevenson Ranch, and the Valencia Commerce Center (including the Postal Distribution Center). Major Valley employers include Six Flags Magic Mountain, the William S. Hart School District, Princess Cruises, the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital, Woodward HRT, and Quest Diagnostics. Although the planning area had higher job growth than the County as a whole, average pay per worker in the Valley has been only about 75 percent of the County average. In 2000, an average employee in the Valley earned $29,201 annually compared to $39,671 for Los Angeles County. This may reflect the number of service workers in the Valley, the lack of major corporate headquarters, and fewer jobs in financial and legal services. Employment Proiections To project future job growth, a variety of data sources were used to identify actual employment numbers for existing businesses in the Valley. Based on this data, an average number of jobs per square foot of non-residential uses was derived; this number projected an employment generation range of one employee per approximately 550 to 725 square feet of floor area. Staff then estimated the potential for future construction or expansion of non-residential development on vacant and underutilized land in the planning area that is developable and designated for employment -generating uses. Based on this analysis, staff estimated that over 59 million square feet of new commercial, industrial and/or institutional space could be built within the Valley. (It should be noted that the actual number may fluctuate based upon floor areas of new construction). Using the employment generation factors and the estimated square footage of new employment -generating uses, staff developed a range of estimated employment at build - out of the General Plan Land Use Map. The estimated number of new jobs under General Plan build -out ranges from 98,322 to 128,850. Added to existing jobs within the Valley, the total number of jobs in the planning area is estimated to range from 217,910 to 286,254 at General Plan build -out. L-25 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Proiections for Commercial and Industrial Development To project future commercial and industrial development, staff members from the City and County conducted a detailed analysis of the planning area according to traffic analysis zones. This task force reviewed data from multiple sources, including existing geographic information system (GIS) data layers, existing and proposed zoning, existing and proposed General and Area Plan land use designations, property subdivisions, existing development patterns, pending development applications, approved planning entitlements, topographic and environmental constraints, and other relevant information. The methodology used by staff to develop these detailed development projections involved the following steps: 1. Staff prepared projections for each traffic analysis zone (TAZ) contained in the traffic model. For purposes of traffic modeling, a TAZ is a portion of land within the planning area in which certain land uses have been designated, the development of which is expected to generate new vehicle trips to serve future development. Only undeveloped or under-utilized land is expected to contain future development that will generate new vehicle trips. Therefore, each TAZ must be analyzed to determine the percentage of land that is already fully built - out, and the amount of land that is available for new development or rebuilding. There are 455 TAZs in the planning area's traffic model. 2. Staff compared each TAZ with a current aerial photograph and Planning Department records to determine the amount of developable land in each one. Land was considered to be developable if it was vacant or under-utilized, privately owned, appropriately designated and zoned, and free of major constraints such as ridgelines and floodways. 3. For undeveloped and under-utilized land within each TAZ, staff estimated the projected actual build -out capacity under the draft Land Use Map, considering historical development trends, parcelization, surrounding development, access, topography, drainage patterns, infrastructure capacity, and similar site constraints. 4. The result of this analysis was an estimated build -out capacity for each TAZ in terms of commercial and industrial development potential (square footage). The estimated build -out capacity for the entire planning area is 40,896,590 square feet of commercial space and 40,735,960 square feet of industrial space. The projections generated from the TAZ analysis represent staff's best efforts to achieve a realistic vision of actual commercial and industrial development potential for the planning area. In preparing the One Valley One Vision commercial and industrial development projections, staff acknowledged that portions of the planning area are already largely developed and that the Area Plan is not based on a "clean slate" of vacant, undeveloped land. Existing uses and development patterns must be recognized in planning for new uses. For purposes of a theoretical comparison, the TAZ analysis could be compared to the "worst case" commercial and industrial build -out projections of the Area Plan land use map. The worst case scenario assumes that all existing uses are subject to demolition, reconstruction, or intensification to achieve the maximum density allowed by the land use map. For commercial and industrial uses, maximum density is established by the calculation of floor to area ratios (FARs). An FAR is the total floor area of a building to the area of land on which the building is located. The Area Plan specifies a maximum density of .50 FAR for the Neighborhood Commercial (CN) land use designation, .75 FAR for the Community Commercial (CC) land use designation, 1.0 FAR for the Industrial (I) land use designations and a maximum density of 2.0 DRAFT May, 2011 L-26 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use FAR for the Regional Commercial (CR) and Business Park (BP) land use designations. Because many areas of the Santa Clarita Valley have been developed within the last 20 years that have useful life -spans of 50 years of longer, staff determined that it would be unreasonable to assume that all existing development would be replaced with new development at the highest possible density allowed by the land use map. For this reason, the "worst case" scenario under the land use plan was not used as the basis for commercial and industrial build -out projections. Instead, the TAZ analysis described above formed the basis for reasonable build -out projections. Jobs/Housing Balance The jobs/housing balance compares the available housing and available jobs within a community. Currently, over half of employed Valley residents must travel out of the Valley to work. In 2000, the Valley had a jobs -household ratio of 0.88, as compared to the County -wide ratio of 1.43 jobs per household. By 2008, the Valley's jobs/housing ration was estimated to range from 1.3 to 1.5 jobs per household. Achieving a jobs/housing balance can significantly reduce the total number of vehicle trips on the road network and provide greater quality of life for residents. Improving the jobs/housing balance requires planning for the location, intensity, and nature of jobs and housing in order to encourage a reduction in vehicle trips and miles traveled, and a corresponding increase in the use of mass transit and alternative transportation methods such as bicycles, carpools, and walking. Strategies include locating higher -density housing near employment centers, promoting infill development, promoting transit -oriented development, actively recruiting businesses that will utilize the local workforce, developing a robust telecommunications infrastructure (including broadband service to homes and businesses), developing workforce skills consistent with evolving local economies, and providing affordable housing opportunities within the community. Using projected estimates of employment and residential development allowed by the Land Use Maps of the City's General Plan and the County's Area Plan, it is estimated that the jobs - housing ratio within the Santa Clarita Valley will maintain a minimum of 1.5 jobs per household and could approach nearly 2:1 depending on development trends. The City and County have identified a goal of achieving at least 1.5 jobs per household, as stated in the policy section of this Element. Economic Development Efforts The term economic development as used in the context of this Land Use Element describes efforts by the City and the County to promote land use planning that enhances the local economy of the Santa Clarita Valley, by expanding job creation, provision of goods and services to both retail and wholesale consumers, movement of goods, diversification of the economic base, enhancement of land values, attraction of new businesses to the area, and retention and expansion of existing businesses within the Valley. Although successful economic development will benefit local jurisdictions by enhancing the local tax base, this is not the primary consideration for these efforts. The City and County understand that economic vitality is necessary to ensure the health and well-being of Valley residents. In 2006, the City obtained approval of a State of California Enterprise Zone designation as one of 42 designated zones throughout the State. The Santa Clarita Enterprise Zone designation became effective July 1, 2007 and will remain in effect for 15 years. The designation provides for tax credits for qualifying businesses that can substantially reduce their State income tax obligation. L-27 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan The City has formed a Redevelopment Agency, with the City Council acting as the Agency Board of Directors. The Redevelopment Agency has designated a Redevelopment Project Area and adopted a Redevelopment Plan for this area, which generally includes about 913 acres within Downtown Newhall, along Main Street and south of Lyons Avenue. The Agency funded the preparation of the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan and is undertaking roadway and infrastructure improvements in the area pursuant to the adopted plan. During the life of the Redevelopment Plan, the Redevelopment Agency expects approximately 1,780 housing units will be either constructed or rehabilitated within the Redevelopment Area. The City of Santa Clarita's Economic Development mission is to aid in the economic growth of the Santa Clarita Valley by fostering and encouraging responsible economic development opportunities that result in: 1) a jobs/housing balance established through quality employment opportunities for residents; 2) an economic base through increased sales tax generation; and 3) economic wealth by attracting external monies to the local economy. In working towards a jobs/housing balance, the City and County have targeted four main industry clusters for expansion in the Santa Clarita Valley — Entertainment, Aerospace, Biomedical, and Technology, further described below. Entertainment: According to a 2005 Labor Base Analysis compiled by Alfred Gobar and Associates, approximately 6,600 Santa Clarita residents currently work in the film industry and approximately 58 percent of those workers commute out of the Valley for work. The Valley is home to over 20 sound stages that serve as the ongoing production home for several television shows as well as hosting temporary filming for movies, commercials, and music videos. Aerospace: With existing employers such as Aerospace Dynamics, ITT Aerospace Technologies, and Woodward HRT, the future is bright for aerospace advancement in the Santa Clarita Valley. Through a partnership with College of the Canyons, local aerospace companies in the Santa Clarita Valley have been able to train new and retrain existing employees. This training partnership has produced a collaboration model that is recognized statewide for its innovation. Biomedical: Several companies have relocated to the Santa Clarita Valley since 2000 that specialize in biomedical and life sciences, creating a biomedical cluster in the Valley with companies such as Mann Biomedical, Advanced Bionics, Quest Diagnostics, Boston Scientific, BioNess, Celestis, and more. Many of these businesses are located in the Mann Biomedical Park, located in the Rye Canyon Business Park. The Valley is now home to more than 1,100 biotechnology jobs, and there are opportunities for continued job growth in this clean industry to create high paying jobs for residents of the Valley. Technology: A unique feature of the Santa Clarita Valley's business environment is the location of a thriving business district. The Valencia Gateway hosts nearly 1,500 companies and 45,000 employees, making it the largest and fastest growing center for business, technology, and industry in Los Angeles County. Three of Southern California's premier technology companies merged in 2005 to offer audio, video, and information technology services to businesses, homeowners and homebuilders, all under one roof, with the creation of Access Tech, Inc. in Valencia. DRAFT May, 2011 L-28 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use In order to reach the goal of enhancing and expanding the local economic base, the City and the County work to attract and retain businesses in the retail, restaurant, and entertainment sectors that Santa Clarita Valley residents wish to patronize, thereby reducing sales tax leakage to other areas outside the Valley. To generate economic wealth from external sources, the City and the County target two primary opportunities: location filming and visitor attraction. These efforts are described below: The City of Santa Clarita launched its Film Office in 2002 to increase filming in the Santa Clarita Valley and to brand the Valley as one of Los Angeles County's most filmed and film -friendly areas. Santa Clarita has several advantages for the film industry, including a varied landscape suitable to depict international and domestic locations as well as being located within the 30-mile zone of several studios and production companies. Despite statewide loss of filming to other states and countries in recent years, the Santa Clarita Valley has been able to increase location filming. In 2007, location filming contributed over $20 million to the local economy. In addition to the tourist attractions of Six Flags Magic Mountain and Six Flags Hurricane Harbor theme parks, the City focuses on visitor attractions through event tourism. The City sponsors or supports several special events throughout the year to attract visitors who positively impact the local economy without increasing need for public services. Some of these events include the Amgen Tour of California cycling race, the Cowboy Festival, and adult and youth sport tournaments. These events along with the two theme parks in the Valley draw more than 3 million business and tourist travelers annually to the Valley. I. Urban Form, Community Design, and City Beautification The legal basis for all land use regulation is the police power granted to cities and counties to protect the public health, safety, and welfare of their residents. Justice William O. Douglas, speaking for the Supreme Court on this matter, wrote: The concept of the public welfare is broad and inclusive... the values it represents are spiritual as well as physical, aesthetic as well as monetary. It is within the power of the legislature to determine that the community should be beautiful as well as healthy, spacious as well as clean, well balanced as well as carefully patrolled. (Berman v. Parker, 348 U. S. at 33) As noted above, the authority granted to local planning agencies has been interpreted by the Supreme Court as extending to land use regulation for the purpose of creating an attractive, aesthetically pleasing community character. In 2004, the California Legislature codified this authority by adopting the following legislation: The text and diagrams in the Land Use Element that address the location and extent of land uses, and the zoning ordinances that implement these provisions, may also express community intentions regarding urban form and design. These expressions may differentiate neighborhoods, districts, and corridors, provide for a mixture of land uses and housing types within each, and provide specific measures for regulating relationships between buildings, and between buildings and outdoor public areas, including streets. (California Government Code Section 65302.4) L-29 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan The City of Santa Clarita has adopted the Community Character and Design Guidelines (2009) and a Beautification Master Plan (2001) which contain design guidelines for individual development projects and for overall community design. During the One Valley One Vision planning effort undertaken by the City and the County to develop consistent plans for the Santa Clarita Valley, much discussion focused on the urban form and design characteristics desired throughout the Valley. Urban form refers to the combination of individual elements in the built environment which together make up the cities and neighborhoods in which we live, work, play, and travel: the houses, schools, parking lots, shopping centers, streets, parks, business centers, offices and public buildings which together create urban places. The idea of urban form can be considered at varying scales of development. At the largest scale, the distribution of land uses and open space within the Valley can be considered one aspect of urban form. At the smallest scale, within the context of an individual development site, urban form can describe the placement of a building on a lot, the location of parking and access, and the height and massing of the building relative to the street. At an intermediate scale, urban form can describe the physical relationships between neighborhoods and streets, and between residential and non-residential uses. Urban form is partly determined by natural features in the area, such as rivers, mountains, lakes and forests. Urban form also results from thousands of small, incremental decisions made over many years, each decision adding a building, parking lot, or other feature to the urban landscape. Sometimes these decisions result in unintended consequences that are not recognized until much later. Urban planners use terms such as density, concentration, centrality, diversity, mixed use, connectivity, and proximity to define aspects of urban form. Community design is a term often used by planners to refer to the overall style and "look" of a community, based on predominant architectural styles, landscape materials, use of signs, street lights and street furniture, and other aspects of the built environment that convey a visual message about the community's setting, history, and character. For example, mountain communities often encourage use of gable roof designs and architecture typical of European mountain areas; desert communities often emphasize use of adobe -style southwestern motifs; and California Mission communities often promote Mission -style buildings. Collectively, these elements are referred as the "community design" of the area. Even communities that do not have specific design themes such as Alpine, Mission, or Southwest, often develop a general design style based on prevalent development trends in the region. Cities that have no community design standards risk losing a particular community identity, as corporations and franchises that use standard building plans tend to construct the same big boxes, chain stores, and fast food restaurants throughout their service area. Loss of community identity has been criticized by urban planners and social critics in recent years, most notably in James Howard Kunstler's book The Geography of Nowhere, which labels many modern cities as "depressing, brutal, ugly, unhealthy, and spiritually degrading". City beautification, as used in the City's master plan, refers to the City of Santa Clarita's efforts to enhance public spaces such as streets, gateways, public buildings, and plazas with landscaping, lighting, signage and other improvements, in order to eliminate blight and beautify the city. Beautification also includes ongoing maintenance of these improvements. A summary of how the General Plan deals with urban form, community design, and beautification in the Santa Clarita Valley is provided below. DRAFT May, 2011 L-30 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Urban Form At a macro scale, looking at the distribution of land uses throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, development has been shaped by the National Forest lands occupying the mountain ranges to the north, east, and south of Valley communities. The Land Use Maps for the City's General Plan and the County's Artea Plan have reinforced the concentration of urban land uses within central portions of the Valley by designating significant areas of open space and rural residential uses between more developed areas and the National Forest lands. The intent of these designations is to maintain urban uses within the flatter portions of the Valley that have access to infrastructure, roads, and public facilities, and to minimize encroachment of urban development into hillside areas. The overall urban form has also preserved open space near the Santa Clara River throughout most of the Valley, in order to protect water quality and provide scenic views, recreational trails, and habitat preservation. At the intermediate scale, or neighborhood level of urban form, the City's General Plan and the County's area plan provide opportunities in some areas to create more urban environments with mixed uses, walkable pathways, and ready access to public transit. Residential densities and building heights in these areas have been increased to promote additional housing opportunities in proximity to supportive commercial and public services. In particular, the areas around rail commuter stations in Newhall and Saugus have been designated through specific plans with denser mixed uses to promote transit -oriented development, as suggested by SCAG in the Compass 2% Strategy discussed in Section D, above. The urban form desired in these areas is called Transit -Oriented Development (TOD), which is defined as moderate- to high -density development located within an easy walk of a major transit stop, generally with a mix of residential, employment, and shopping opportunities. TOD encourages walking and transit use without excluding the automobile. TOD can be new construction or redevelopment of one or more buildings whose design and orientation facilitate transit use. Benefits of a well -designed, vibrant TOD neighborhood include increased transit ridership and decrease of vehicle trips; provision of mobility choices; increased public safety; reduction in household income devoted to transportation cost; reduced air pollution and energy consumption; conservation of resources and open space; enhanced economic development; and increased housing supply. In order to promote TOD, policies have been included in the General Plan that encourage supportive densities, a mix of land uses, and design characteristics which may include but are not limited to higher residential density, reduced parking requirements, traffic calming strategies, street patterns with smaller blocks and high connectivity, and architecture that orients buildings to sidewalks, plazas and parks, rather than to parking lots. Within the planning area, transit - oriented development is planned in proximity to the Metrolink stations in downtown Newhall, Valencia, and Canyon Country (at the permanent east -Valley station location). At the scale of site -specific development, the General Plan contains policies to encourage the maintenance of neighborhood character in the various villages throughout the planning area, and to ensure that each new development incorporates measures for pedestrian accessibility, multi -modal opportunities, water conservation and quality, energy conservation, and other similar measures. Throughout all elements and policies of the General Plan, the focus has been to avoid the negative effects of urban sprawl. Urban sprawl has been described by Oliver Gillham in The Limitless City as "a form of urbanization distinguished by leapfrog patterns of development, commercial strips, low density, separated land uses, automobile dominance, and a minimum of public open space." Urban sprawl is a function of the following factors: L-31 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan • The strength or vibrancy of activity centers and downtown areas; • Accessibility of the street network; • Residential density; • The mix of homes, jobs, and services at the neighborhood level. In general, areas with vibrant commercial areas, accessible and walkable street networks, higher residential densities, and mixed uses can avoid the urban forms characteristic of urban sprawl. Sprawl is created by both transportation and land use patterns; therefore, both issues must be addressed in order to avoid the negative effects of this urban form. Policies have been included in both the Land Use and Circulation Elements to address this issue. Community Design According to the City of Santa Clarita's Architectural Design Guidelines, "no single architectural theme is being promoted, but rather the emphasis is to promote variety... Caution should be exercised when considering architectural styles that have recently become popular (i.e. 'trendy'), but have not yet stood the test of time. In addition, historic styles that cannot be faithfully replicated should be avoided." In keeping with the Valley of Villages concept, each neighborhood or community within the City may define the community characteristics that are considered appropriate for that area. For example, residents in Canyon Country have endorsed rustic and natural building styles with emphasis on materials such as wood, stone, and enhanced paving. Design standards specific to Sand Canyon and Placerita Canyon have been included in the City's Zoning Ordinance, and will remain in place. Because of its historical character, development in Newhall is subject to a Special Standards District and the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan standards. Saugus, an area that is largely developed but may experience rebuilding over time, is seeking renovation of its older commercial areas with more architectural detailing. Valencia, with the largest commercial and industrial areas in the city, is also the site of more modern multi -story development and contemporary designs. Although Valencia is nearly built out, any new development within the remaining industrial portions of Valencia will be required to follow the City's design guidelines. Within the County portion of the planning area, the design standards for Newhall Ranch are outlined in the adopted Specific Plan. The Community Standards Districts adopted by Los Angeles County will maintain desired design characteristics in Agua Dulce and Castaic. City Beautification Because the City and County are working together to promote comprehensive planning for the Santa Clarita Valley, opportunities exist for the One Valley One Vision effort to identify means of preserving and enhancing the scenic environment through a common approach to streetscape design and landscaping along arterial streets and highways and major gateways. In addition, preservation and enhancement of significant ridgelines, hillsides, and the Santa Clara River provide opportunities for beautification efforts throughout the Valley. 1. Streetscapes along Major Arterials In its Beautification Plan, the City has identified a goal of providing landscaped medians within major arterial roadways, in order to provide aesthetic appeal, control vehicle circulation, calm traffic, and provide area for directional and traffic signs. Specifically, the following arterials are identified for landscape median enhancement: DRAFT May, 2011 L-32 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use • Via Princessa • Santa Clarita Parkway • Soledad Canyon Road • Railroad Avenue • Newhall Ranch Road (Cross Valley Connector) • Lyons Avenue • Sierra Highway • Bouquet Canyon Road Standardized, drought -tolerant plant palettes along with decorative concrete are desired in the medians, which will help to enhance and unify the community. Policies and implementation measures have been included in this Element to promote coordination between the City and County on uniform approaches to streetscape design, including plant materials, hardscape, and street furniture. 2. Unified Sign Program and Street Furniture Another area in which the City and County can coordinate beautification efforts is provision of unified signs, especially for regional trails, trail heads, open space and preserve areas. In addition, consistent street furniture such as bus shelters, benches and trash cans can be used to unify streetscapes throughout the Valley. Both the City and the County will continue to require new development to provide utilities underground, in order to avoid the visual effects of overhead lines. In addition, the two agencies may coordinate on undergrounding projects for major arterials where appropriate. 3. Preservation of Significant Ridgelines, Hillsides, and Scenic Resources The Santa Clarita Valley is characterized by numerous canyons, hills, and mountains. The planning area consists of a mountainous complex of sedimentary rock formations dissected by long, narrow tributary valleys of the Santa Clara River. The Valley floor, which ranges in elevation from 1,000 to 3,000 feet above sea level, is surrounded by mountain ranges, including the San Gabriel, Santa Susana, and Sierra Pelona ranges. About half of the planning area consists of land on slopes of 10 percent or less, with the remaining area containing steeper slopes. Both the City and the County have recognized the hillside areas of the Valley to be important resources and have adopted hillside management regulations to restrict development on steeper slopes, but the current hillside ordinances of the two agencies differ as to both process and intent. The County's ordinance applies to average slopes of 25 percent and greater, while the City regulates development on areas with an average cross slope of greater than 10 percent. The ordinances also vary in terms of development requirements for hillside areas. While both the City and the County regulate density of development based upon slope steepness, the City's ordinance also regulates building placement to preserve designated ridgelines. Currently, the County has not delineated significant ridgelines throughout the planning area, but has done so within the Castaic Community Special Standards District. Although County policies do not prohibit building placement on ridgelines, the County's ordinance is intended to protect hillsides from environmental degradation, preserve public safety and property, and maintain the natural topography to the extent possible. The County has prepared Hillside Design Guidelines (1989) to assist developers in preparing plans for hillside areas, but these are advisory only. The County's hillside ordinance requires no discretionary review for new development below density thresholds. The City's ordinance requires preservation of natural topographic features, designated ridgelines, maintenance of off -site and on -site views, and Iandform grading. L-33 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Sensitive treatment of the Valley's prominent hillsides and ridgelines is considered to be important for several reasons. These features contribute to the character of the Valley of Villages by forming a distinctive backdrop between neighborhood communities. They provide a scenic open space greenbelt around the perimeter of the Valley and provide residents with a connection to the natural mountain environment. In addition, as the supply of land in level portions of the Valley diminishes, the development pressure for building in hillside areas is likely to increase. Therefore, it was considered to be important in the One Valley One Vision planning effort to reach agreement between the City and the County on a coordinated approach to ridgeline preservation and hillside protection, and policies have been added to the Land Use Element to address these issues. 4. Preservation of the Santa Clara River as an Ecological Resource The Santa Clara River traverses the entire Valley and represents a joint opportunity to preserve and plan for the protection and enhancement of this significant resource. Los Angeles County has designated over 40,000 acres adjacent to the Santa Clara River as a Significant Ecological Area, which encompasses the surface and subsurface hydrology of the river from its headwaters to the western county border. As the last unchannelized river in Los Angeles County, the Santa Clara River represents opportunities to support diverse wildlife and vegetation communities. In some areas of the Valley open space and trails are provided adjacent to the river, and future plans for Newhall Ranch will preserve the river corridor in that project. Land use policies have been included to require that future planning in both City and County areas adjacent to the river consider the scenic and environmental qualities of this resource, with the goal of creating a continuous greenbelt along the river to the extent feasible. J. Planning for Public Health and Environmental Quality Throughout much of the last sixty years, a period that has seen substantial growth in suburban areas, the relationship between city planning and public health has often received little emphasis in local land use policies. Planners have tended to focus more on other aspects of the urban environment such as zoning regulation, design guidelines, provision of infrastructure, and economic development. Recently, however, several studies have raised concerns about the link between health and the urban environment, particularly the effects of urban sprawl. These studies cite increasing cases of obesity, diabetes, asthma, cancer, depression, and other ills that appear to be related to the lifestyle in modern urban areas.' In the book Urban Sprawl and Public Health, the authors ask: ' See Urban Sprawl and Public Health: Designing, Planning, and Building for Healthy Communities, by Howard Frumkin, Lawrence Frank, and Richard Jackson, Island Press, Washington, 2004, for an extensive bibliography on the subject. DRAFT May, 2011 L-34 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use What is life like in the expanding metropolitan areas? It is automobile -oriented; many young families live in neighborhoods with neither sidewalks nor walkable destinations. It is transient; most Americans cannot live in the same community throughout their lives and grow old with friends from school or child -raising years. It lacks diversity; in homogeneous subdivisions, many children grow up never befriending or even meeting anybody from a lower social class or, for that matter, from a wealthier social class. It is restrictive; many young people without driving licenses or cars, living in subdivisions without shops, community centers, and public transportation, are bored and alienated. As we age and reach the point where we no longer should be driving, there are few options such as walkable town centers with nearby services and user-friendly transit, a matter of growing concern to the baby boomer generation.2 Post -World War II actions of the federal government that led to creation of sprawling suburbs around American cities, including funding of freeway construction and provision of home mortgage lending guarantees, were intended to promote adequate housing, jobs, and healthy lifestyles. However, some of the unintended consequences of suburban development are now being recognized. Increased use of the automobile for commuting between suburban residential areas and urban job centers has raised air pollution levels significantly, leading to rising rates of respiratory illness and contributing to climate change. Increased paving over native vegetation and soil to create streets and parking lots has resulted in more stormwater runoff and less infiltration of surface water into the water tables, causing increased water pollution and flood control needs. Lengthy commutes by parents to out-of-town jobs takes away valuable time with their children. Young people and seniors without access to vehicles become isolated. Increased energy use for gasoline, and for heating and cooling of inefficient building construction, has increased our dependence on fossil fuels. Sedentary lifestyles contribute to epidemics of obesity, diabetes and associated diseases. In addition, urban environments dominated by automobile use are often unsightly. According to the U. S. Green Building Council, new development can affect ecosystems in many ways, including land consumption, habitat destruction, and increased erosion. "The impacts of increased impervious surfaces to stormwater runoff should be controlled to mimic natural conditions and protect water quality... Heat from the sun is absorbed by buildings and paved surfaces and is radiated back, increasing temperatures in surrounding areas. External lighting systems may cause light pollution to the night sky and interfere with nocturnal ecology. ,3 New development also affects the environment based on the need and options for travel to and from the site. According to the Federal Bureau of Transportation Statistics, vehicle use in the United States nearly tripled, from 1 to 2.85 trillion miles per year, between 1970 and 2002. Vehicles are responsible for approximately 20 percent of U. S. greenhouse gas emissions annually. Vehicle fuel consumption and emissions contribute to climate change, smog, and particulate pollution, all of which have negative impacts on human health. The infrastructure required to support vehicle travel (parking and roadway surfaces, service stations, fuel distribution networks, etc.) increases the consumption of land and nonrenewable resources, alters storm water flow, and absorbs heat energy exacerbating heat island effects. The use of zoning to separate land uses by allocating different uses within different areas was intended to create more orderly and organized cities. In the early years of the 1900's, zoning was used and supported by the courts to separate residences from noxious industrial uses. In the One Valley One Vision planning effort, the City and County have addressed the public Z Op. cit., page xiii. 3 U. S. Green Building Council, LEED-NC (New Construction) Version 2.2 Reference Guide, 2006, page 19. L-35 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan health issues associated with urban sprawl and separation of land uses through the Land Use Maps and policies found in all of the elements of the City's General Plan and the County's Area Plan. The Land Use Maps have been designed to limit urban uses within rural and hillside areas, in order to preserve a greenbelt around the developed portions of the Santa Clarita Valley and promote infill development within the urban core areas. Opportunities to mix compatible service uses with residential uses are provided within all rural and urban residential land use designations, subject to agency review. Commercial land use designations will allow inclusion of multi -family residential uses, where appropriate. Mixed -use designations have been included for transit -oriented urban areas, underutilized commercial corridors, and neighborhood village areas. Emphasis has been placed on higher residential densities near transit centers to limit dependence on the automobile and promote non -motorized transportation methods, and policies have been included to ensure that public health factors such as walkability are considered in all aspects of design review for future development projects. K. Coordination of Land Use Plan with Resources and Other Agencies In addition to the issues identified in the preceding sections, State law requires that a Land Use Element be coordinated with other agencies to ensure that adequate resources and support services will be provided in the planning area to support build -out of the designations shown on the Land Use Map. A summary of how the Land Use Element has addressed these issues follows. Water Availabilit The Castaic Lake Water Agency (CLWA) was formed in 1962 for the purpose of contracting with the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) to provide a supplemental supply of imported water to the water purveyors in the Valley. CLWA serves an area of 195 square miles in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, and wholesales imported water to local retail water purveyors through an extensive transmission pipeline system. In 2005, the retail water purveyors served about 65,800 connections. The California Urban Water Planning Act requires water utilities with more than 3,000 connections to update and submit an Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) every five years. In 2005, the Castaic Lake Water Agency (CLWA) prepared an UWMP that included CLWA and four local retail water purveyors that provide retail water service to customers in the Santa Clarita Valley: CLWA Santa Clarita Water Division; Newhall County Water District; Valencia Water Company; and Los Angeles County Waterworks District No. 36 (which participated even though it has fewer than 3,000 connections). The UWMP was prepared for a 25-year period, from 2005 — 2030. Growth projections for this planning period were based on the One Valley One Vision planning effort jointly undertaken by the City and County.. Water resources available to CLWA and the retail water purveyors include wholesale (imported) water supplies from the State Water Project (SWP); local groundwater supplies from the Alluvium and Saugus Formation aquifers; and transfers, exchanges, and groundwater banking programs. The use of recycled water is also an important component of the districts' water management planning. The UWMP also details plans for short-term contingencies such as droughts, earthquakes, or service interruptions. The 2005 Urban Water Management Plan adopted for the Valley's water providers concluded that adequate water would be available to serve projected growth through year 2030. However, a subsequent 2007 federal court decision to protect habitat in the threatened Sacramento -San Joaquin Delta curtailed State Water Project allocations for 2008-09. SWP reductions may be DRAFT May, 2011 L-36 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use experienced in future years if habitat conditions for the Delta smelt and other endangered species are not improved. In order to address potential future reductions of SWP allocations, the local water districts are currently working to update the Urban Water Management Plan for the Santa Clarita Valley. The districts are also developing additional plans and programs to ensure long-term water supply for the Valley in future planning periods beyond year 2030. According to the 2005 UWMP, the districts are aggressively implementing water audits/repairs, public outreach, conservation pricing, residential plumbing retrofit, residential ultra -low flush toilet replacement, large landscape conservation, and conservation programs for commercial, industrial, and institutional uses. In addition, the CLWA has explored opportunities for water exchanges, water banking, and conjunctive use (the coordinated operation of multiple water supplies to achieve improved supply reliability). CLWA has also developed plans for use of recycled water to meet long-term water supply needs. Currently, wastewater from the two water reclamation plants operated by the County Sanitation Districts is treated to tertiary levels and discharged to the Santa Clara River. Recycled water from the Valencia reclamation plant has been used for landscape irrigation (including Westridge Golf Course) and construction. The Newhall Ranch development is also planning to construct a water recycling facility, and water is available from oilfield production. By 2030, CLWA projects that 17,400 acre-feet per year of recycled water will be available for landscaping purposes. However, more infrastructure will be needed in order to deliver this water to end users. Two major factors that affect water usage are weather and water conservation. Historically, the districts have found that when the weather is hot and dry, water usage increases. During the 1987-1992 drought period, overall water requirements due to the effects of hot, dry weather were projected to increase by approximately 10 percent. However, as a result of extraordinary conservation measures enacted during this period, the overall water requirements actually decreased by more than 10 percent. The greatest opportunity for conservation is in developing greater efficiency and reduction in landscape irrigation, which can represent more than 50 percent of the water demand for residential customers, depending on lot size and amount of landscaping. The General Plan contains policies for conservation of irrigation water through implementation of drought resistant landscaping materials and irrigation techniques. More detailed information about water supply is contained in the Conservation and Open Space Element of the General Plan. Schools Seven public school districts serve the Santa Clarita Valley planning area, listed below: • William S. Hart Union High School District; • Saugus Union Elementary School District; • Newhall Elementary School District; • Sulphur Springs Union Elementary School District; • Castaic Union School District; • Acton-Agua Dulce Unified School District; and • Los Angeles Unified School District. L-37 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan All school districts have been impacted by residential growth over the last decade, and all schools are using temporary portable classrooms to accommodate student enrollment. In addition to public schools, the planning area includes nine private schools, the Golden Oak Adult School, and the Learning Post. In planning for school capacity needs, school districts consider two factors: 1) the addition of new dwelling units within their district boundaries; and 2) changes in household size due to changing demographics, which may lead to increased enrollment. Given the existing overcrowding of public schools in the planning area, anticipated growth, and competing land use interests between schools and other public facilities, opportunities to share resources are being explored. While some of the districts have used year-round academic calendars in this past, none of the districts are using multi -track year-round education anymore for capacity expansion, and it is unlikely to be used in the future within the Santa Clarita Valley. Other methods of expanding facility space are being considered, including continued use of portable classrooms, use of two-story buildings, use of multi -purpose rooms, shared library facilities, joint use of technological resources, and shared recreational facilities. In addition, various funding sources are being explored such as developer impact fees, state bond proceeds, or local bond measures. In general, an elementary school campus is recommended to include a minimum of 10 net usable acres; middle schools require 25 acres; and high schools require 35-40 acres. Many of the existing schools in the Valley are below these recommended areas. Because of the use of portable classrooms, outdoor play and field area is limited at many schools. Funding for new school construction is provided by statewide bond measures and development impact fees. Funding to support students generated by new development is provided through a combination of these revenue sources, which may vary based on voter approval of bond measures and State funding availability. In addition, districts may use mitigation agreements reached with developers to ensure construction of new schools as dwellings are occupied. Colleges within the planning area include the following: College of the Canyons (COC). Part of the California Community College System and fully accredited, COC offers a variety of two-year degree programs in academic and technical fields as well as access to four year and graduate degrees through the University Center. The University Center is an innovative concept in higher education with a mission to provide immediate access to upper -division and graduate level education opportunities through its affiliation with partnering universities, such as the University of La Verne, Chapman, University, California State University Bakersfield, California State University Northridge, and the University of California Los Angeles. Enrollment in both COC campus locations for spring, 2008 was 21,300 students, surpassing the State's enrollment target for 2016. The west campus is located on 158 acres in Valencia and contains 664,623 square feet of building space, including a 950-seat theater. Recent additions to the Valencia campus include three new buildings, two additions to existing buildings (the Library and Media Arts building) and one building under construction (Student Services/Administration, scheduled for completion in 2011). In addition to college classrooms, COC includes facilities for the William S. Hart Union High School District's Early College High School (ECHS), where students can take both high school and college level classes in order to graduate with both a high school diploma and an associate's degree. The ECHS opened with 86 freshman students in 2008 and will add a new class each year. DRAFT May, 2011 L-38 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use The east campus, located on 70 acres in Canyon Country, opened in 2007 with 35,000 square feet of instructional space including science labs, computer labs, library, book store, classrooms, and other facilities. The east campus served 3,500 students and offered more than 300 courses in its first semester. At build -out, the east campus will serve nearly 10,000 students and contain at least seven permanent multi -story buildings. California Institute of the Arts (Cal Arts). Cal Arts is the Nation's only fully accredited visual and performing arts college, and has won a national reputation as the first art institute to offer Bachelor's of Fine Arts and Master's of Fine Arts degrees in both the visual and performing arts. Founded through a partnership between Walt Disney, the Los Angeles Conservatory of Music, and the Choinard Art Institute, the campus is located on a 60-acre site in Valencia. Cal Arts has a film and entertainment focus and animation training program. Emphasis is placed on new and experimental work, and students are admitted solely on the basis of artistic ability. The Master's College is a private liberal arts college located on over 100 acres in Placerita Canyon, and offers 50 Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees. Enrollment is estimated at 1,000 students. The Master's College is planning a facility expansion on the current campus. The challenge to provide additional school facilities needed to support new development will be met through on -going cooperation between the City, County, and school districts. Master - planned communities, such as Newhall Ranch, provide for school sites and funding mechanisms in their specific plans. As infill occurs in other portions of the planning area, however, it will be necessary to explore all options to alleviate over -crowding. Policies have been included in the General Plan to address coordination of land use planning with school facility planning. Parks The provision of adequate park space and facilities to serve residents is not only required by State planning law, but is recognized as necessary to provide for public health and quality of life. Parkland provides recreational and aesthetic benefits as well as increased environmental quality, through maintenance of open space, permeable land area for surface water infiltration and percolation, trees and vegetation for habitat, and the economic benefits of increased property values. The Land Use Element is required to consider the number, size, and distribution of parklands and facilities to ensure that these public amenities will be adequate to serve the ultimate population level at build -out of uses permitted by the Land Use Map. Based on a 2003 GIS inventory, the Valley contains over 14,000 acres of parkland, including both local and regional parks located within City and County areas; however, much of this parkland consists of natural open space and is not developed for active recreational uses. There are four State Parks located within the Planning Area: Castaic Lake Recreation Area, Placerita Canyon State Park, Vasquez Rocks State Park, and the Santa Clarita Woodlands. In addition, recreational facilities within the Angeles National Forest and Los Padres National Forest lands within and adjacent to the planning area are available for public use by Valley residents. A more detailed discussion of specific park locations and acreage is contained in the Conservation and Open Space Element. L-39 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan In addition to parkland, the Valley contains an integrated trail system traversing both City and County areas and available for use by equestrians, hikers, joggers, and cyclists. Long-term plans call for a continuous trail along the Santa Clara River, to be completed as right-of-way is acquired. Schools also provide land and facilities for recreational use on a limited basis, through joint use agreements. Developed parkland in the planning area accommodates a variety of organized sports, including soccer, baseball, tennis, volleyball, basketball, and a skateboard park. Facilities also include picnic areas and playgrounds. A 58-acre Sports Complex was constructed by the City within a former industrial complex in 2002, with an aquatic center added in 2003. Future expansion plans include multi -purpose fields, a second gymnasium, the expanded skate park which was completed in 2009, and other amenities. The County has constructed a 53-acre sports complex in Castaic. Both the City and County operate recreational programs at their park facilities. Passive recreational areas include conservancy land located in Towsley Canyon and the Water Conservatory Garden and Learning Center owned by the Castaic Lake Water Agency. The City has adopted a standard of 5 acres of parkland per 1000 residents, and the County has adopted a standard of three 3 acres per 1,000 residents. Based on these standards and without considering improvements or distribution of park property, it may appear that the planning area has adequate overall parkland acreage to serve the existing population. However, much of the land designated for parks and open space is not accessible to residents or developed for recreational use. More parks are needed to handle specific recreational activities, such as ball fields for youth, in order to better serve the existing population and future growth. Within the City, there are only about 1.5 to 2 acres of developed parkland per 1,000 population, and the City has developed a separate master plan for parks to prioritize actions needed to expand parkland and services. Another issue for park development is distribution of park facilities, as many local parks are concentrated within master planned communities, and outlying areas have access to fewer local parks. There is a need for additional regional parks throughout the Valley, as both City and County residents are active park users in this family -oriented community. It is anticipated that future dedications of parkland will be made from new developments in the planning area as development occurs. In addition, both the City and the County are planning for a variety of new parks to serve the growing population's recreational needs. The City and County will continue to explore joint use opportunities with school districts, utility corridors, and other service providers and agencies to expand parkland and recreational facilities, including trails and playfields. It will be critical in the future to identify sources of funding and reserve lands for future parkland as the planning area continues to develop, in order to provide adequate parkland for all residents. More information about park planning is provided in the Open Space and Conservation Element. Libraries The County of Los Angeles operates all public libraries in the planning area, including the Main Branch in Valencia, the Jo Anne Darcy Branch in Canyon Country, the Newhall Branch, and a bookmobile that serves the communities of Castaic, Acton, Agua Dulce, Val Verde, and the Friendly Valley senior community. The County's system contains over eight million items in its collections and provides inter -library loan programs with other local and national libraries. Santa Clarita library branches also maintain local and regional history collections. In addition to the public libraries, schools provide library facilities to their students. Both Cal Arts and The Master's College provide libraries for students, and College of the Canyons opens their library to both students and the general public. DRAFT May, 2011 L-40 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Based on the County Library's service guidelines, the area and number of items within the Santa Clarita branches are not meeting service level standards. As population increases based on growth anticipated by the General Plan, it will be necessary to increase funding to support library development. In order to meet the library needs of new development in the Valley, both the City and County assess a development impact fee for library construction. Other funding sources include property taxes, bond measures, and voter -approved special taxes. In 2008 the City Council approved purchase of three parcels on Lyons Avenue so that the City can move ahead with plans to build a new public library in Downtown Newhall. Along with the new community center, this new library facility is part of the plan to revitalize Downtown Newhall. The new library is currently under construction. In 2010, the Santa Clarita City Council voted to take over operations of the libraries located within the City limits starting on July 1, 2011. Local Government Offices Local government offices in the planning area include the Santa Clarita City Hall and Los Angeles County Civic Center (which includes County administrative offices and the Municipal Court), both located in Valencia. The planning area also has offices of the County Department of Children and Family Services, and the County Department of Senior and Social Services, which provide services for child welfare, emergency housing, food, domestic violence assistance, and referrals to other agencies. The County Department of Public Social Service (DPSS) has an office in Canyon Country that provides services for low-income and disabled persons, homeless assistance, and aid to families with dependent children. Planning issues for government service providers include providing more accessible service to outlying portions of the planning area, and expansion of services as the population increases over the build -out horizon of the Land Use Plan. Working together, the City and County are exploring opportunities to maximize efficiency and provide enhanced public service by co - locating services within a unified civic center complex, which could include City Hall, County Administrative Offices, and the central Sheriff's Station. Health Services Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital, located in Valencia, is the primary acute care hospital serving the planning area with 230 beds for inpatient care. The hospital has a 21-bed emergency room and is certified for pediatrics, outpatient surgery, intensive care, and obstetrics, among other services. The hospital undertook seismic retrofitting, which was completed in 2002. The facility contains a Level 2 regional trauma unit, one of 13 such centers in the County; as this is the only trauma center in the planning area, its maintenance and continued financial viability is of critical importance to Valley residents. The Hospital is planning for expansion, along with additional medical office space for outpatient services, specialized services, doctors offices, and hospital administrative functions. The Santa Clarita Convalescent Hospital in Newhall is a 99-bed facility specializing in senior care, including physical therapy and rehabilitation. Kaiser Permanente operates a facility on Tourney Road that offers family medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics, gynecology, dermatology, optometry, endocrinology, physical therapy, and a pharmacy. Facey Medical Group is the largest medical care provider, with six facilities throughout the Valley in Canyon Country, Valencia, Stevenson Ranch and Castaic, with urgent care provided at the Valencia office. Several other medical groups provide health care services in the planning area, including L-41 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan an office of UCLA's Johnson Cancer Center in Valencia. The closest medical facilities for Valley military veterans are Wadsworth Hospital Center in West Los Angeles and the Sepulveda Ambulatory Hospital. Residents in remote rural portions of the planning area generally do not have easy access to health care services. However, the Samuel Dixon Family Health Center in Val Verde provides health care services to residents in the northwest portion of the planning area, and the Center also operates mobile clinics. The provision of emergency medical services is divided between basic life support (EMT) and advanced life support (paramedic service), and is overseen by the Los Angeles County Fire Department. All firefighters are trained in basic EMT, while paramedic units provide advanced life support. Private ambulance companies provide emergency transportation services. Mental health treatment is available at the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital psychiatric unit, the Child and Family Center, and through a number of family counseling and mental health professionals. Services provided by both private and non-profit organizations also include substance abuse treatment, pregnancy counseling, parenting classes, programs for AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases, and programs for disabled residents and those with special education needs. As baby boomers age, the fastest -growing segment of the population is expected to be people in the age group 50 and older, generating increased needs for long-term care and gerontology services. Primary planning issues for the Santa Clarita Valley will be maintaining the trauma center, providing more services to outlying areas, and meeting the health needs of an aging population while maintaining services to children and young people. Cultural Amenities In 1996 the City of Santa Clarita, in cooperation with the Arts Alliance (a representative task force of arts community leaders) undertook an initiative to identify and address the community's cultural needs. In 1997 the cultural task force began Phase 1 of the Cultural Arts Master Plan, the first of a two-part process, with the objective of assessing the needs of the arts community, determining how arts organizations can cooperate, and make recommendations for future cultural arts planning. Facilities for performing and visual arts are located at California Institute of the Arts, Valencia High School, Hart Performing Arts Theater, College of the Canyons (COC), Canyon Theatre Guild, and Repertory East Playhouse in Newhall. In addition, the City sponsors events with temporary stages in City parks. However, use of these facilities by the general public is limited, and there is a lack of exhibition space for visual arts display. DRAFT May, 2011 L-42 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use The City is the largest individual cultural arts provider, offering a variety of programs including the Cowboy Festival, Summer Concerts in the Parks, Street Arts Festival, art and cultural grant and scholarship programs, and classes in painting, dance, and the fine arts. Cultural awareness is celebrated annually through the Season of Diversity program, which includes essay and poster contests in cooperation with local schools. The City also provided funding for construction of the Performing Arts Center at COC, thereby facilitating joint use of that facility by the public. Cultural arts programming occurs throughout the year in this 47,000 square foot center, including performances by the Santa Clarita Symphony, COC Theatre, Santa Clarita Ballet, Santa Clarita Regional Theatre, Santa Clarita Master Chorale, and more. Los Angeles County also sponsors cultural events throughout the year, including the Native American Festival. There is an active community of artists, performers, and musicians in the planning area that contribute to the cultural life of the community. The Santa Clarita Artists' Association sponsors fine arts exhibits, and the Santa Clarita Valley Film Festival highlights the community's importance in the film industry. The Cultural Arts Master Plan identified the need to provide cultural arts to all members of the community, create a local arts agency for better coordination, and expand facilities. Community benefits from access to the arts include increased educational opportunities, an enriched cultural life, economic development, and redevelopment in the Newhall area. There are opportunities to share resources in the Valley, such as school auditoriums, libraries, technology centers, and recreational facilities for cultural arts purposes. Future planning for cultural arts expansion in the Valley includes development of an arts district in Old Town Newhall, as envisioned by the 2005 specific plan for that area; the need for more museum space; and expansion of performance venues, including evaluating the feasibility of an outdoor amphitheater. Landfills The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works has the responsibility to develop plans and strategies to manage and coordinate the solid waste generated in unincorporated areas and to address the disposal needs of the County as a whole. With respect to land use planning, solid waste transfer and disposal sites were reviewed for their potential impacts on adjacent uses and future residents. Based on the County's estimates, residents generate about 11 pounds of solid waste per day. The Santa Clarita Valley is served primarily by three Class III (non -hazardous) landfills: Chiquita Canyon Landfill near Val Verde, the Antelope Valley Landfill in Palmdale, and Sunshine Canyon Landfill in Sylmar. These Class III landfills receive more than 50,000 tons of solid waste per year. With approved expansions, these landfills will have capacity to serve the Valley beyond year 2020. However, the proposed expansion of the Chiquita Canyon Landfill has raised concerns by residents of nearby Val Verde, who are often impacted by wind-borne odors and truck traffic; compatibility of landfills with adjacent development must continue to be addressed. Both the City and County manage programs to reduce waste generation through diversion programs such as recycling and re -use. Although these efforts will increase the life expectancy of local landfills, they do not eliminate the need for new landfill space. In 2000, a consortium of 78 cities and Los Angeles County signed agreements to purchase the Eagle Mountain Landfill in Riverside County and the Mesquite Regional Landfill in Imperial County. The plan calls for solid waste to be transported to these landfills by rail. L-43 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Additional facilities are needed for sorting and resource recovery from solid waste, including materials recovery facilities (MRFs), composting facilities, collection centers for electronic waste (such as discarded computers and televisions), and recycling facilities. In addition, the re -use of construction demolition debris requires storing and crushing of old asphalt and concrete for use as road base, and sites for these uses are needed. However, siting these facilities is often difficult due to local controversy from neighbors. Planning issues for the Valley include identifying areas for these uses that are required to support Valley businesses and residents. A previous issue regarding landfill planning, which has since been resolved, relates to Elsmere Canyon, a canyon with coastal sage and oak woodlands habitat that provides a wildlife corridor from the Santa Susana Mountains to the San Gabriel range. Proposed as a site for a landfill in 1989, a coordinated citizen effort to preserve Elsmere Canyon resulted in eventual withdrawal of the application. During the environmental process for this project, thousands of Valley residents opposed development of a landfill in Elsmere Canyon. Public concern ultimately culminated in legislation in 1996 prohibiting the use of any land in the Angeles National Forest for landfill purposes. In 2007, 400 acres in Elsmere Canyon were donated by the owners to a conservancy for permanent open space. The remaing non -forest service land has since been acquired as open space Mineral Resources The planning area contains extensive mineral resources. Historically, gold mining and oil production have been the primary mineral extraction activities in and around the Santa Clarita Valley. Other minerals in the area include construction aggregate (sand and gravel), titanium, tuff, and rock. Existing oil and natural gas fields are primarily located in the western portion of the Valley, with over 700 wells in production. In 2003, approximately 3,180 acres were used for oil and natural gas extraction in the planning area. Over 800 abandoned well sites remain in the planning area, which may be subject to re -use or remediation. Sand and gravel resources are primarily concentrated along waterways, including the Santa Clara River, Castaic Creek, and east of Sand Canyon Road. A significant deposit of construction -grade aggregate extends along the Santa Clara River approximately 15 miles from Agua Dulce Creek in the east, to the Ventura County line on the west. Almost 19,000 acres in the planning area are designated by the State as Mineral Resource Zone-2, or areas of prime importance due to known economic mineral deposits. As of 2003 there were about 525 acres of land used for mineral extraction of sand, gravel, and rock. Generally, mining sites are located in Canyon Country, Agua Dulce, and Mint Canyon in the planning area, and in Acton to the north. A proposed sand and gravel mining operation in Soledad Canyon has been controversial due to concerns about noise, air pollution, truck traffic, and visual impacts. Additional information about mineral resources is contained in the Conservation and Open Space Element. For purposes of the Land Use Element, however, the issues of land use compatibility between less intense uses and extraction operations must be considered, in order to provide for adequate separation of these uses. In addition, significant resource areas should be protected from development as they provide a needed resource to support the construction of new homes, businesses, and roads. DRAFT May, 2011 L-44 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Finally, the Land Use Element must consider restoration and re -use of mined areas once mining operations cease. Where restoration to open space is not a practical end use solution, an alternative development program which contributes to economic development, jobs -housing balance, and/or destination eco-tourism should be encouraged. Noise and Flood Hazards A complete discussion of flood hazards is contained in the Safety Element, and noise is addressed in the Noise Element of the General Plan. For purposes of the Land Use Element, it was necessary to identify areas within the Valley that are or will be subject to flooding or excessive noise, and to ensure that the Land Use Map avoided placing uses in these areas that would be detrimentally affected. In general, sensitive receptors with regard to noise impacts include residences, hospitals, schools, convalescent care, and similar uses. The General Plan standard for these uses is established with a rating scale known as Community Noise Equivalent Levels (CNEL). For land planning purposes, sensitive receptors should be set back, away from noise sources such as freeways, or otherwise protected by sound barriers such as walls or earthen berms. Development in the Valley is required to be protected from flood hazards by either staying out of areas prone to flooding, or through elevation of building pads in certain areas. Areas prone to flooding are shown on the Floodplain Map in the Safety Element. Policies in the General Plan encourage accepted flood control standards for construction. Agricultural Resources Agricultural resources of significance to the land use planning process are those which have been classified by the California Department of Conservation (CDC) as important to the local or state agricultural economy. Agricultural lands are classified by soil type, slope, and potential for flooding and erosion hazards, with the most arable land identified as Class I and Class II by the United States Soil Conservation Service. The best soils for agriculture are deep, generally well drained, and easily worked. The western portion of the planning area contains soils within the Class I and Class 11 categories. The remainder of the planning area contains soils less suitable for agriculture, ranging from Class III to Class VI11. Based on soil characteristics and the presence of agricultural uses, the CDC has designated land suitable for agriculture on a set of maps called the "Important Farmland Series". In order to be identified on the Important Farmland maps, land must have been farmed within the last four years prior to mapping. There are five categories of farmland within the planning area shown on the state farmland maps, described below: • Prime Farmland — land with the best combination of physical and chemical features able to sustain long-term production of agricultural crops, due to soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply needed to produce sustained high yields; • Farmland of Statewide Importance — land with good potential for agricultural production, but with slightly more gradient or less soil fertility than prime farmland; • Unique Farmland — land of lesser quality soil used for production of agricultural crops, including non -irrigated orchards or vineyards; L-45 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Farmland of Local Importance — land used for agriculture that is determined by the County Board of Supervisors to be significant to the local economy; • Grazing Land —land with native vegetation that is suited to the grazing of livestock. The planning area contains about 1,994 acres of land designated on the State's Farmland Map, of which about 150 acres are located within the City of Santa Clarita. Farmland acreage is shown on Table L-1. Table L-1: Farmland Designations in the Planning Area State Farmland Designation Acres in County Acres in City Total Acres in Planning Area Prime Farmland 1172.36 128.70 1301.06 Farmland of Statewide Importance 178.25 0 178.25 Unique Farmland 364.11 2.45 366.56 Farmland of Local Importance 130.17 18.42 148.59 Total acreage 1844.98 149.46 1994.44 These designated farmlands occur in scattered locations, generally on alluvial soils adjacent to the Santa Clara River, Castaic Creek, San Francisquito Canyon, and Bouquet Canyon. The largest areas of farmland are located along the Santa Clara River in the western portion of the planning area, north and south of State Route 126 in the area slated for development of Newhall Ranch. Designated farmlands extending along the east side of Interstate 5 along Castaic Creek, along San Francisquito Canyon, and near the intersection of Bouquet Canyon Road and Vasquez Canyon Road, are generally smaller in scale; some are used for horse ranches, non - irrigated cropland, improved pasture lands, and vineyards. The largest category of designated farmland in the planning area is Grazing Land, which includes over 61,000 acres within the planning area. Much of this land will remain vacant in the undeveloped foothills surrounding the Valley and adjacent to U. S. Forest Service land. Land use designations for these areas will be Rural Land, allowing low -density development on large lots to maintain the rural and open character of designated Grazing Lands. Law Enforcement and Fire Protection A full discussion of law enforcement and fire protection services is contained in the Safety Element. However, the Land Use Element addresses these issues in order to assure that new development allowed by the land use plan will not be adversely affected by wildland fire or lack of adequate services. In addition, policies have been added to the Land Use Element to ensure that development plans for new structures have incorporated design measures to reduce the potential for danger from crime and wildland fires. Fire protection in the Santa Clarita Valley is provided by the Los Angeles County Fire Department. There are 11 fire stations with 13 engine companies, five paramedic squads, one hazardous material squad, and two ladder truck serving the planning area. In addition, the U. S. Forest Service has responsibility for non -structure fires in federal forests, and maintains five fire stations in the planning area at Bouquet Canyon, Oak Flat, Sand Canyon and Agua Dulce. DRAFT May, 2011 L-46 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use According to the Fire Department, the average response time to emergency calls in the Valley is about five to seven minutes. However, response distances and times vary due to terrain, distance, and the size of the planning area. The department's median response times throughout the County are 4.5 minutes in urban areas, 5.8 minutes in suburban areas, and 8.3 minutes in rural areas. The planning area is susceptible to wildland fires because of its hilly terrain, dry weather conditions, and native vegetation. Steep slopes allow for the quick spread of flames during fires, and pose difficulties for fire suppression due to access constraints for firefighting equipments. Late summer and fall are critical times for wildland fires, as Santa Ana winds deliver hot, dry desert air into the region. Chaparral and sage vegetation allows fires to spread easily in hillside areas. The Fire Department has classified 80 to 90 percent of the planning area in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Areas in the City that are prone to wildland fire include portions of Newhall and Canyon Country, areas surrounding Sand Canyon, portions of Pico Canyon, Placerita Canyon, Hasley Canyon, Whites Canyon, Bouquet Canyon, and all areas at the interface between native vegetation with urban development. Records indicate that wildland fires occur almost every year, with large fires occurring fairly regularly about every ten years. This fire cycle is based upon the growth of vegetation in fire -prone areas. The Fire Department operates fire suppression camps and maintains crews used for fire protection and suppression through use of fire cuts, water -dropping helicopters, and other equipment. However, the best planning tools for wildland fire safety are to protect hillside areas from encroachment by urban development, to provide adequate fire flow and fire access roads in hillside areas, and to maintain fuel modification zones between wildland areas and structures where possible. With regard to law enforcement, the planning area is served by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Santa Clarita Valley Station, which serves over 600 square miles. Law enforcement within the City is provided by the Sheriff's Department under contract. The Sheriff's station, located in Valencia, is insufficient to meet current needs. The Department also operates a storefront station in Newhall. New facilities and additional staffing, along with equipment and vehicles, will be needed to serve anticipated growth allowed under the land use plan. Discussions are underway regarding a new Sheriff Station to be jointly funded by the City and County to serve Valley residents. The Peter J. Pitchess Detention Center (Wayside Honor Ranch) in Castaic serves the entire County. The jail consists of several facilities which together comprise the largest jail complex in the County. In addition to these facilities, three youth camps serving the region are located within the planning area. The Los Angeles County Probation Department provides secure detention for delinquent minors in juvenile halls and control and rehabilitation programs in camps such as Camp Scott, Camp Scudder, and Camp Francis J. Scobee. These juvenile halls and camps provide confinement to minors ranging in age from 8 to 18 who await adjudication and disposition of legal matters. Camps provide treatment, care, custody, and training for the rehabilitation of delinquent minors as wards of the Juvenile Court. Planning issues for law enforcement include expanding Sheriff station facilities and identifying funding sources for staffing and operational needs to support the Valley's growing population. L-47 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan L. Land Use Map Designations The Land Use Element and accompanying Land Use Map (provided as a separate exhibit) describe and designate the distribution of land uses by type, location, intensity, and extent of use. Designations show land planned for development as residential, commercial, industrial, open space, public facilities, and other categories of public and private land use. Prior to adoption of this General Plan a comprehensive assessment of existing land uses and their distribution was conducted using aerial photo analysis, field surveys, and a geographic information system. Land was evaluated for suitability of development type and intensity based on topography, access, proximity to infrastructure, environmental constraints, character of surrounding development, economic viability, and other criteria. Input on future land use needs was solicited through extensive public participation at workshops, meetings, through correspondence and the City's website. Based on this analysis and input, a Land Use Map was developed. This General Plan is unique in that the City of Santa Clarita and the County of Los Angeles have collaborated on a compatible system of land use designations that will maintain consistency of planning policies throughout the entire Santa Clarita Valley. The compatible land use designations will ensure that property owners, residents, and developers throughout the planning area understand the relationship between the City's General Plan and the County's Area Plan operate from the same set of guidelines. Land Use Designation Descriptions The following descriptions identify the type, density, and/or intensity of land uses that conform to each of the land use designations shown on the Land Use Map. Any interpretation regarding uses that are not specifically included in the following land use designation descriptions shall be made by the designated authority, pursuant to applicable zoning regulations and based on the intent of each designation, as set forth in this section. It is important to note, when reading the Land Use Map and the descriptions of each land use designation, that the maximum density or intensity is not guaranteed for any land use category. In determining the most appropriate use for each property shown on the Land Use Map, consideration will be given to topography; availability of roads and infrastructure; existing development patterns; potential land use conflicts; public health, safety, and welfare; presence of environmental resources and hazards; and other site constraints. Therefore, the upper range of residential density and non-residential use intensity will be granted only when the reviewing authority determines that all other applicable General Plan policies, codes, and requirements can be met on the site. The density designations in the Urban Residential land use designations are considered to be net density and the density designations in the Rural Land use designations are considered to be gross density. In practice, this means that the number of dwelling units allowed within each development site shall be divided by the net or gross area of the property, depending on the designation. General Plan density is an indicator of the maximum number of dwelling units per unit of area; it does not regulate minimum lot size, which is a requirement of the Unified Development Code, although the Non-UrbanLand use designations include minimum lot sizes. The California Legislature has identified second dwellings on residential lots as a valuable form of housing (Government Code Section 65852.150). State law requires that cities and counties allow second dwelling units on residential lots without imposing onerous requirements that would unreasonably restrict these units, except where findings are made that second units DRAFT May, 2011 L-48 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use would result in "specific adverse impacts on the public health, safety, and welfare" (Section 65852.2). The City and the County have both adopted ordinances regarding second units in residential areas, to implement state law; procedures and standards for second units shall be required as set forth in the applicable zoning ordinance. In the titles of the following land use designation descriptions, the City's terminology for each designation is given first, with the corresponding designation in the County's Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan shown in parentheses. Non -Urban 1 (NU 1) — (County Area Plan - Rural Land 20/RL20) The Non -Urban 1 designation identifies lands in the planning area that are distinguished by significant environmental features and extreme development constraints. Lands in this designation are largely undeveloped and consist of rolling hillside areas, steep slopes, and remote mountain lands with limited access. Uses in this designation could include single-family homes at a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit per 20 acres, agriculture, equestrian uses, private recreation, filming, and public and institutional facilities serving the local area. Specific allowable uses and development standards shall be determined by the underlying zoning designation. Clustering is permitted in this designation in accordance with the provisions of the Unified Development Code. Individual homes and other structures should be designed in consideration of topographic and environmental constraints. Non -Urban 2 (NU 2) — (County Area Plan - Rural Land 10/RL10) The Non -Urban 2 designation identifies lands in the planning area that include environmental features and are not appropriate for intense development requiring urban services. Lands in this category are largely undeveloped and consist of rolling hillside areas, slopes, and mountain lands with limited access. Uses in this designation could include single-family homes at a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit per 10 acres, agriculture, equestrian uses, private recreation, and public and institutional facilities serving the local area. Specific allowable uses and development standards shall be determined by the underlying zoning designation. Clustering is permitted in this designation in accordance with the provisions of the Unified Development Code. Individual homes and other structures should be designed in consideration of topographic and environmental constraints. Non -Urban 3 (NU 3) — (County Area Plan - Rural Land 5/RL5) The Non -Urban 3 designation identifies lands in the planning area that include environmental features and are not appropriate for intense development requiring urban services. Lands in this category are undeveloped or partially developed and consist of rolling hillside areas with limited access. L-49 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Uses in this designation could include single-family homes at a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit per 5 acres, agriculture, equestrian uses, private recreation, and public and institutional facilities serving the local area. Specific allowable uses and development standards shall be determined by the underlying zoning designation. Clustering is permitted in this designation in accordance with the provisions of the Unified Development Code. Individual homes and other structures should be designed in consideration of topographic and environmental constraints. Non -Urban 4 (NU 4) — (County Area Plan - Rural Land 2/RL2) The Non -Urban 4 designation provides for the maintenance and expansion of rural communities in the planning area that are distinguished by large lot sizes (generally two acres or greater), agricultural and equestrian uses, and an absence of urban services. Uses in this designation could include single-family homes at a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit per 2 acres, agriculture, equestrian uses, private recreation, and public and institutional facilities serving the local area. Specific allowable uses and development standards shall be determined by the underlying zoning designation. Supportive commercial uses serving the local area, such as grocery stores, restaurants, personal services, and retail sale of specialty goods for rural residents, such as feed and tack stores, may be allowed in "activity areas" within this designation without a General Plan Amendment, provided that the size, location, design, and use types are determined to be compatible with the surrounding area through approval pursuant to the Unified Development Code. Such "activity centers" must be at least 1 mile from any commercial land use designation and must not exceed 5 acres in size. Clustering is permitted in this designation in accordance with the provisions of the Unified Development Code. Individual homes and other structures should be designed in consideration of topographic and environmental constraints. Non -Urban 5 (NU 5) — (County Area Plan - Rural Land 1/RL1) The Non -Urban 5 designation provides for the maintenance and expansion of rural communities in the planning area that are distinguished by large lot sizes (generally one acre or greater), agricultural and equestrian uses, and the absence of urban services. Uses in this designation could include single-family homes at a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit per 1 acre, agriculture, equestrian uses, private recreation, and public and institutional facilities serving the local area. Specific allowable uses and development standards shall be determined by the underlying zoning designation. Supportive commercial uses serving the local area, such as grocery stores, restaurants, personal services, and retail sale of specialty goods for rural residents, such as feed and tack stores, may be allowed in "activity areas" within this designation without a General Plan Amendment, provided that the size, location, design, and use types are determined to be compatible with the surrounding area through pursuant to the Unified Development Code. Such "activity centers" must be at least 1 mile from any commercial land use designation and must not exceed 5 acres in size. DRAFT May, 2011 L-50 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Clustering is permitted in this designation in accordance with the provisions of the Unified Development Code. Individual homes and other structures should be designed in consideration of topographic and environmental constraints. Urban Residential 1 (UR 1) — (County Area Plan - Residential/H2) The Urban Residential 1 designation provides for residential neighborhoods at densities that require urban services. Many of these neighborhoods provide a transition between higher density, urban development and rural communities throughout the planning area, and this designation is appropriate in such urban/rural interface areas. Uses in this designation could include single-family homes and other residential uses at a maximum density of 2 dwelling units per 1 acre. Specific allowable uses and development standards shall be determined by the underlying zoning designation. Supportive commercial and institutional uses serving the local area, such as stores, restaurants, personal services, limited medical services, and retail sale of specialty goods for neighborhood residents, may be allowed in a proposed development project within this designation without a General Plan Amendment, provided that the size, location, design, and use types are determined to be compatible with the surrounding area through approval pursuant to the Unified Development Code. The clustering of development, subject to underlying zoning requirements, is encouraged on lands with significant environmental and/or topographical features or resources, in order to preserve open space for protection of these natural features or resources, to provide recreational amenities, or to act as a buffer to surrounding rural communities. Urban Residential 2 (UR 2) — (County Area Plan — Residential/H5) The Urban Residential 2 designation provides for residential neighborhoods that typify much of the planning area. Uses in this designation could include single-family homes and other residential uses at a maximum density of 5 dwelling units per 1 acre. Specific allowable uses and development standards shall be determined by the underlying zoning designation. Supportive commercial and institutional uses serving the local area, such as stores, restaurants, personal services, limited medical services, and retail sale of specialty goods for neighborhood residents, may be allowed in a proposed development project within this designation pursuant to the Unified Development Code. The clustering of development is encouraged on lands with significant environmental and/or topographical features or resources, in order to preserve open space for protection of these natural features or resources, or to provide recreational amenities. The Urban Residential 2 designation has been applied to residential areas that existed prior to the effective date of the Area Plan and are surrounded by Rural Land designations, in order to recognize these existing areas as conforming to the Area Plan. However, this designation in these areas should not be interpreted as setting a precedent for expanding urban development into adjacent Non -Urban Land designations, because these areas are not served with adequate levels of urban infrastructure to accommodate greater densities or intensities of use. These areas are described below and shown on Exhibit L-2. L-51 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Sleepy Valley, a neighborhood in the northeastern portion of the planning area adjacent to the Angeles National Forest, generally located along Sierra Highway between Oak Street and Steele Avenue; • Val Verde, a community in the western portion of the planning area adjacent to Newhall Ranch and the Valencia Commerce Center, generally located along San Martinez Road and Chiquito Canyon Road; and • Tract 25965, a subdivision in the southern portion of the planning area adjacent to the Angeles National Forest, generally located at the intersection of Placerita Canyon Road and Running Horse Road. Urban Residential 3 (UR 3) — (No Corresaondina Countv Area Plan Desianation The Urban Residential 3 designation provides for neighborhoods of single-family attached and detached housing, and small-scale attached multi -family dwellings such as duplexes and triplexes. Allowed uses include single-family homes, duplexes, triplexes and small-scale multi- family dwellings of a scale and character that complement and are consistent with a single family residential neighborhood at a maximum density of eleven (11) dwelling units per acre provided associated recreational facilities are provided. Other incidental uses may be allowed, when determined to be in conformance with the primary use, based on the standards and requirements of the applicable zoning ordinance. In addition to allowed residential density, supportive commercial uses serving the local area, such as stores, restaurants, personal services, limited medical services, and retail sale of specialty goods appropriate to the surrounding neighborhood, may be allowed within approved activity areas without requiring a General Plan Amendment, provided that the size, location, design, and use types are determined to be compatible with the surrounding area through approval pursuant to the Unified Development Code. Live -work units may be allowed subject to the requirements of the underlying zone. Urban Residential 4 (UR 4) — (County Area Residential/H18) The Urban Residential 4 designation provides for mixed residential neighborhoods of detaching and attached dwellings. Allowable uses in this designation include detached and attached single-family homes, duplexes, multiple family dwellings, and other residential uses at a maximum density of 18 dwelling units per 1 acre. Specific allowable uses and development standards shall be determined by the underlying zoning designation. Other incidental uses may be allowed, where determined to be in conformance with the primary use, based on the standards and requirements of the applicable zoning ordinance. Supportive commercial and institutional uses serving the local area, such as stores, restaurants, personal services, limited medical services, and retail sale of specialty goods for neighborhood residents, may be allowed in a proposed development project within this pursuant to the Unified Development Code. Live -work units may be allowed subject to the requirements of the underlying zone. DRAFT May, 2011 L-52 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Urban Residential 5 (UR 5) — (County Area Plan Urban Residential/H30) The Urban Residential 5 designation provides for medium to high density apartment and condominium complexes in areas easily accessible to transportation, employment, retail, and other urban services. Allowable uses in this designation include multiple family dwellings at a minimum density of 18 dwelling units per 1 acre and a maximum density of 30 dwelling units per 1 acre. Specific allowable uses and development standards shall be determined by the underlying zoning designation. Supportive commercial and institutional uses serving the local area, such as stores, restaurants, personal services, limited medical services, and retail sale of specialty goods for neighborhood residents, may be allowed in a proposed development project within this designation pursuant to the Unified Development Code. Live -work units may be allowed subject to the requirements of the underlying zone. L-53 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use Citv of Santa Clarita General Plan City of Sania Cearita General Plan Land Use L EXHIBIT 1r2 i.INETED UR- Y t . DISTRICTS AeeL # Ul7iia {1- ]rrr mi Atka J — &—kikq 1 t F m6 Lid 3fm 6�`^i�r I- r1 � �I - 0 ors a3 'Clarrta c 1pf�~{ I L wA Tk-zhm rf.-1 ; ram.,,.., LV A4 ' 9 Iti ilwudaR'��i I.:kan smrr '� I I+ uRi NU3 ._- r 1 Val Verde UR2:, *-- '� r Bp CN CN 4 , I s� Pi Fee 0 1,025 3,250 DRAFT May, 2011 L-54 Citv of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use City of Santa CEarta General Plan E Land Jse JR5° CR � LIRA Pi URI UR2 URi TC• UR2 , r 5Y TC 2- Tired 25965 mul R F. f fr L� HU3. NLF f' 1 iP { 1 a J.. 1 :§ '47N I'sy7 J_ 5 ;' I 5Os J HUi 15 OS Fee-. os LFr os D 1,65C a.1 or, � � 1 ------------- - i I 4 � 5 1 � , r , O-NQ c ;...1;. CH Ct=� 1 1 j.lfi. ram, a 'UR2 3 -Sleepy Valley_ a � ,•5 ; L � P � J r NUC •� I � r ' 1 1 OS-BLM Feet ' I L-bb UKAt- I May, 2w i Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Mixed Use (MX) — (No Corresponding County Area Plan Designation) The Mixed Use designation provides opportunities for the coordinated development of urban villages and corridors that offer a diverse range of complementary land uses, in appropriate locations throughout the planning area that are served by public transit, and in proximity to supportive uses and services. In addition to the Mixed Use land use designation on the Land Use Map, mixed -use projects may be allowed in other land use districts subject to the applicable requirements of the zoning ordinance. Approval for any mixed -use project will be based upon a determination that the project meets General Plan objectives for walkable, compact, connected neighborhoods, in which the mix of uses achieves a reduction of vehicle trips, and meets other applicable policies for sustainability and livability. Mixed use projects will be subject to design standards and development characteristics as evaluated in their neighborhood and regional context. These projects shall: • Be the subject of community outreach and public participation led by the applicant prior to formal submittal; • Preserve the character of existing residential neighborhoods and provide adequate buffer and transition; • Propose an economic engine with an appropriate amount of jobs, retail, office, restaurant and general commercial square footage combined with neighboring and integrated housing types; • Be internally and externally pedestrian -oriented; • Consist of 360-degree architectural design with pedestrian -scaled building massing and forms where adjacent to existing residences, with the use of landscaping to visually soften hard edges of buildings; • Contain varied building heights and create sight lines; and • Include appropriate public and/or private recreational components. The residential density in MX districts shall range from a minimum of six (6) to a maximum of fifty (50) dwelling units per acre, and the maximum floor area ratio (FAR) for non-residential uses shall range from .5 to 3.0, depending on the location of the mixed -use project, as described below: Mixed Use — Neighborhood (MXN) Mixed -use development in these areas will be encouraged in order to create neighborhoods that integrate residential uses with complementary commercial services, including retail and office uses. Mixed -use neighborhoods should be designed in consideration of surrounding development patterns, proximity to public transit, providing roadway and trail linkages to adjacent development where appropriate. Non-residential uses consistent with this district include those in the Neighborhood Commercial (CN) and Community Commercial (CC) districts. The residential density range in mixed -use neighborhoods shall be a minimum of six (6) to a maximum of eighteen (18) dwelling units per acre, and maximum floor area ratio for the non-residential portion of the development shall be .5. Building heights shall not exceed 50 feet. DRAFT May, 2011 L-56 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Mixed Use — Corridor (MXC) Mixed -use development will be encouraged along specified commercial corridors in which revitalization of underutilized parcels or aging buildings is desired, as shown on the Land Use Map, subject to the applicable requirements of the zoning ordinance. Mixed uses along corridors may be either vertical or horizontal, provided that residential units in these areas should be protected from adverse impacts of high -volume arterial streets, and will typically be located an appropriate distance from the roadway. Non-residential uses consistent with this district include those in the Neighborhood Commercial (CN) and Community Commercial (CC) districts. The residential density range in mixed -use corridors shall be a minimum of eleven (11) to a maximum of thirty (30) dwelling units per acre, and maximum floor area ratio for the non-residential portion of the development shall be 1.0. Mixed Use — Urban Village (MXUV) Within transit -oriented urban villages that are located in proximity to commuter rail and bus transfer stations, mixed -use development will be encouraged in order to promote compact, connected environments for residents to live, work, shop, access needed services, and recreate, without having to use their vehicles. Either vertical or horizontal mixed uses are allowed, subject to the applicable requirements of the zoning ordinance. Non-residential uses consistent with this district include those in the Neighborhood Commercial (CN), Community Commercial (CC), and Regional Commercial (CR) districts. Single -use residential or commercial projects which do not contain mixed uses will be allowed in these districts only if such projects are designed to integrate with other uses in the area so as to create interconnected, walkable neighborhoods, and do not include incompatible uses or design features contrary to the intent of the district. The residential density range in urban villages shall be a minimum of nineteen (19) to a maximum of fifty (50) dwelling units per acre and the maximum floor area ratio (FAR) for the non-residential portion of the development shall be 3.0. Mixed Use Overlay In addition to the mixed use land use designations, the Mixed Use Overlay identifies commercial areas that may be suitable for mixed residential and commercial development and redevelopment. The purpose of the Mixed Use Overlay is to provide a development alternative to the underlying commercial land use designation. This overlay allows the opportunity to improve the character within key commercial corridors and transit station locations. The overlay areas are shown on Exhibit L-3. L-57 DRAFT May, 2011 OD J 0 N N H LL d' City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Reaional Commercial (CR) — (County Area Plan — Maior Commercial/CM The Regional Commercial designation is applied to central and regional commercial districts in the planning area, generally located around the Valencia Town Center and other major community centers. This designation is intended to promote the development of regional focal points for commercial, entertainment, cultural, and business uses serving the general public and drawing from a market area encompassing the entire Santa Clarita Valley. Allowable uses include the regional mall; retail sale of automobiles and recreational vehicles, furniture, and home improvements; large-scale entertainment uses such as theaters and arenas; corporate offices and financial institutions; and hospitality services, including hotels and restaurants. Allowable uses shall have a maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 2.0. Coverage of the development site by buildings shall not exceed 90 percent, except as otherwise permitted by the reviewing authority pursuant to review as prescribed by the Unified Development Code. Multiple family dwellings (including live -work units) may be permitted in this designation as allowed by the zoning ordinance, provided that approval of multiple family dwellings does not adversely impact job creation or economic development in the planning area. Where appropriate, mixed -use development incorporating multiple -family residential with commercial uses is allowed in this designation, pursuant to the zoning ordinance. Multiple family dwellings shall have a minimum density of 18 dwelling units per acre and a maximum of 50 dwelling units per acre. Communitv Commercial (CC) — (No Corresaondina Countv Area Plan Desianation The Community Commercial designation is intended for business providing retail and service uses which primarily serve the local market. Representative uses include restaurants, clothing stores, hardware and auto parts stores, grocery markets, pharmacies, banks and financial services, specialty retail, theaters and nightclubs, day care centers, and medical services. These areas are typically located along arterial streets or at the intersections of high traffic corridors. Allowable uses shall have a maximum FAR of 0.75. Coverage of the development site by buildings shall not exceed 80 percent, except as otherwise permitted by the reviewing authority pursuant to discretionary review as prescribed by the Unified Development Code. Multiple family dwellings (including live/work units) may be permitted in the designation, subject to the requirements of the underlying zoning designation, provided that the approval of multiple family dwellings in the designation does not adversely impact job creation or economic development in the planning area. Multiple family dwellings shall have a maximum density of 18 dwelling units per acre. Neighborhood Commercial (CN) — (County Area Plan — General Commercial/CG) The Neighborhood Commercial designation provides for small neighborhood commercial districts that serve the short-term needs of residents in the immediate area. Allowable uses in this designation include supermarkets; drug stores; restaurants; personal services; repair services; light automotive services; day care centers; and other local -serving shops and services for neighborhood residents. Neighborhood commercial centers should be integrated into surrounding neighborhoods with appropriate screening, buffering, and pedestrian access. More intensive uses that are incompatible with adjacent neighborhoods, such as bars and nightclubs, heavy automobile repair, and businesses with outdoor operations or storage, are not appropriate in this designation. Coverage of the development site by buildings shall not exceed 75 percent, except as otherwise permitted by the reviewing authority pursuant to discretionary review as prescribed by the Unified Development Code. Allowable uses shall have a maximum L-59 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of .50. Specific allowable uses and development standards shall be determined by the underlying zoning designation. Multiple family dwellings (including live/work units) may be permitted in the designation, subject to the requirements of the underlying zoning designation, provided that the approval of multiple family dwellings in the designation does not adversely impact job creation or economic development in the planning area. Multiple family dwellings shall have a maximum density of 18 dwelling units per acre. Business Park (BP) — (County Area Plan — Office and Professional/10) The Business Park designation provides for mixed employment districts in areas accessible to transportation and visible from freeways and major arterials and is intended to promote the development of master -planned environments with a high quality of design and construction. Allowable uses in this designation include offices; medical offices, research and development; light assembly and fabrication; warehousing and distribution; and supportive commercial uses. Development in this designation is expected to provide enhanced landscaping and outdoor amenities to create a campus -like setting. Operations and storage activities are to be confined to enclosed buildings or otherwise screened from public view. This designation is appropriate in locations with good access and visibility from freeways and major arterials. Site areas should be large enough to accommodate comprehensive planning, and designs shall provide compatibility with and linkage to adjacent developments. Coverage of the development site by buildings shall not exceed 90 percent, except as otherwise permitted by the reviewing authority pursuant to discretionary review as prescribed by the Unified Development Code. Allowable uses shall have a maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 2.0. Specific allowable uses and development standards shall be determined by the underlying zoning designation. Industrial (1) — (County Area Plan — Light Industrial/IL) The Light Industrial designation provides for industrial districts in areas with adequate access, infrastructure, and services and is intended to accommodate the most intensive types of industrial uses allowed in the planning area. Allowable uses in this designation include storage and distribution of goods; vehicle storage; contractor's storage facilities; batch plants; heavy equipment repair and sales; wholesale sales; heavy vehicle repair; and supportive commercial uses. Heavy industrial uses that involve processing of raw materials, generation or treatment of large amounts of hazardous substances, or that result in an excessive emission of odors, fumes, pollutants, vibration, noise, or other noxious, hazardous, or nuisance conditions, will not be allowed. Encroachment of incompatible uses, such as assembly uses and general retail, are not appropriate in Industrial areas. Coverage of the development site by buildings shall not exceed 90 percent, except as otherwise permitted by the reviewing authority pursuant to discretionary review as prescribed by the Unified Development Code. Allowable uses shall have a maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 1.0. Specific allowable uses and development standards shall be determined by the underlying zoning designation. Open Space (OS) — (County Area Plan — Open Space/OS) The Open Space designation is intended to identify and reserve land for both natural and active open space uses, including public and private parks, conservancy lands, nature preserves, wildlife habitats, water bodies and adjacent riparian habitat, wetlands areas dedicated to open DRAFT May, 2011 L-60 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use space use, drainage easements, cemeteries, golf courses, and other open space areas dedicated for public or private use. Typical uses include recreation, trails, trailheads, paseos, horticulture, limited agriculture, animal grazing, and habitat preservation. Accessory uses incidental to the primary use, such as restrooms, visitor centers, clubhouses, maintenance structures, and manager's offices, may be allowed provided that such structures do not cover more than 10 percent of the site area, except as otherwise permitted by the reviewing authority pursuant to discretionary review as prescribed by the Unified Development Code. National Forest (OS-NF) — (County Area Plan — National Forest/OS-NF) The National Forest designation identifies lands in the planning area within the Angeles and Los Padres National Forests. For lands owned by the United States Forest Service, specific allowable uses, maximum intensity standards, and development standards shall be determined by the underlying zoning designation. For privately owned lands within the National Forest (in -holdings), allowable uses in this designation include single-family homes at a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit per 5 acres, agriculture, equestrian uses, private recreation, privately owned commercial recreation with or without support facilities such as lodging and dining, filming and public and institutional facilities serving the local area. Specific allowable uses and development standards are determined by the underlying zoning designation. Clustering is permitted in this designation in accordance with the provisions of the Unified Development Code. Individual homes and other structures should be designed in consideration of topographic and environmental constraints. Bureau of Land Management (OS-BLM) — (County Area Plan OS-BLM) The Bureau of Land Management designation identifies lands in the planning area owned by the United States Bureau of Land Management. Specific allowable uses, maximum intensity standards, and development standards shall be determined by the underlying zoning designation. Specific Plan (SP) — (County Area Plan — Specific Plan/SP) The Specific Plan designation indentifies lands in the planning area that are governed by an adopted Specific Plan. Specific allowable uses, maximum intensity standards, and development standards shall be determined by the adopted Specific Plan. Public/Institutional (PI) — (County Area Plan — Public and Semi -Public Facilities/P) The Public/Institutional designation identifies lands in the Planning Area that are used for various types of public or/and community serving facilities owned and operated by public agencies, special districts, non-profit organizations and other entities. Allowable uses include: civic and governmental offices, public works yards, public or private schools, libraries, day care centers, hospitals, airports and supporting medical facilities, museums, fire stations, police stations, landfills, and prisons. Building height and coverage will be determined by the lead agency for each project, based upon the type and intensity of use. Privately -owned facilities serving the general public with transportation services, such as helipads, may also be appropriate in this designation. OVOV recognizes that there are existing utilities and associated infrastructure operating with previous approvals located in all zones dispersed throughout the Valley. The City's ability to regulate or condition said utilities and associated infrastructure operations is at times limited L-61 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan and, in some cases, preempted by other lead government agencies. It is expected that these uses will continue, that necessary operations and maintenance are performed, that on -site testing is needed, and that expansion will occur as demand for the utility increases. Allowable uses shall have a maximum FAR of 0.5. Specific allowable uses and development standards shall be determined by the Unified Development Code. OVOV Special Development Areas Calgrove Corridor/ Smiser Ranch An approximately 38-acre assemblage of land located east of Interstate 5, west of Wiley Canyon Road and north of Calgrove Boulevard is commonly referred to as the Smiser Mule Ranch within the Calgrove Corridor. The northern equestrian property remains largely undeveloped and house multiple farming buildings, large pastures, and two equestrian commercial buildings. A fitness center, a vacant restaurant pad and supporting parking facilities are located on the properties to the south. Given the site's location at the southern portion of the Santa Clarita Valley, just north of the Newhall Pass, and its proximity and visibility to the Interstate 5 corridor which borders the property to the west, this area is considered a gateway into the City of Santa Clarita from the Los Angeles Basin. Reasonable Development Potential Based on Smiser's gross acreage, this MX-N designation would allow for approximately 830,000 square feet of commercial development in addition to 702 residential units on the property. However, this site has a number of physical constraints that will limit the subject property from being developed to the maximum allowable standards. Those constraints include oak trees, Caltrans right-of-way dedication, the future widening of Wiley Canyon Road to four lanes, electrical easements, and drainage. Due to these known property constraints and the sensitivity of land development to adjacent residential neighborhoods, any proposed project(s) on this site shall not exceed 830,000 square feet (representing a floor area ratio of approximately .5) of total residential and commercial combined development, excluding parking facilities. Mixed -Use Neighborhood and Desired Development Characteristics Future use and development of this site is of careful consideration. For this mixed -use property, potential projects will: • Be the subject of community outreach and public participation led by the applicant with the Calgrove Corridor Coalition, Calgrove corridor neighborhoods and the Wiley Canyon Elementary School (Newhall School District) prior to formal submittal; Preserve the character of existing residential neighborhoods located along the Calgrove Corridor and provide adequate buffer and transition from any development on the subject properties; Propose an economic engine with an appropriate amount of jobs, retail, office, restaurant and general commercial square footage combined with neighboring and integrated housing types; DRAFT May, 2011 L-62 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use • Be internally and externally pedestrian -oriented; • Consist of 360-degree architectural design with pedestrian -scaled building massing and forms where adjacent to existing residences, with the use of landscaping to visually soften hard edges of buildings; • Have varied building heights and create east/west sight lines; building heights taller than 55' would require approval of a conditional use permit; • Include a site -specific and a community -based recreational component; • Understand that introducing a higher density development at this location would have traffic and pedestrian circulation impacts on the existing neighborhood, and therefore to minimize those impacts, special attention to access points must be considered and; • Place internal driveways and walkways and locations of entrances and exits so not to disrupt the flow of traffic into or out of the existing residential neighborhoods, and to allow easy access to and from the project site from the Calgrove Boulevard freeway on-ramp/off- ramp. North Newhall Area The North Newhall Area (NNA) is an approximate 200-acre assemblage of land generally bounded by the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) right-of-way on the east, Newhall Creek on the south and west, and a significant ridgeline south of Via Princessa on the north. Most of the NNA is located within the Placerita Canyon Special Standards District (PCSSD). The northern approximate 100 acres of this NNA is undeveloped with a hillside to the north, oak trees and Placerita Creek. The commercial corridor along the west side of Railroad Avenue consists of mixed retail and commercial uses. The southern approximate 100 acres of this area is primarily developed with existing single-family ranch style homes of varying sizes. A commercial center with a wide mix of industrial and retail uses is located at the entrance to the NNA adjacent to 13th Street. Given the site's characteristics, its proximity to Downtown Newhall and to the Jan Heidt Metrolink Station location, and its surrounding and diverse communities, the NNA should be subject to a broader and more comprehensive planning approach and have an MX-N (Mixed - Use Neighborhood) and Community Commercial (CC) designation which acknowledges and preserves the existing standards in the current PCSSD. The NNA will be allowed to develop with guidelines, character and policies in place that will be designed to be protective of the existing, developed portions of Placerita Canyon. This development will be required to be done in a way to ensure that it provides buffering, transitional densities and protection to the existing developed areas and not intrude in or change the character of the developed areas of Placerita Canyon. Critical aspects of the PCSSD including the provision of trails and other amenities to support the rural equestrian lifestyle of the existing developed areas of Placerita Canyon shall be provided. Any development that is proposed is intended to enhance the Placerita Canyon gateway with attractive visual amenities. Reasonable Development Potential Based on the NNA gross acreage of 200 acres, the MX-N and CC designations theoretically could allow for approximately 4.3 million square feet of commercial development and up to 3,600 residential units in the NNA. However, this NNA site has a number of pronounced L-63 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan physical constraints and other limitations that severely limit it from being developed to the maximum allowable standards. Those constraints include oak trees, an active creek which is a blue -line stream, the railroad, the MWD right-of-way, drainage/hydrology issues, and potential circulation/traffic issues. Due to these known property development constraints, and the sensitivity of any land development to adjacent existing rural equestrian residential neighborhoods, any proposed project(s) on this NNA site shall not exceed a total of 775 residential units and an aggregate total of 450,000 square feet of non-residential development, excluding parking facilities. Proposed projects on the NNA shall incorporate a landscape buffer along the MWD right-of-way and detached single-family residences adjacent to the MWD right- of-way. Density of development should transition downward to the east, toward the MWD right away.. Being that the NNA is part of the PCSSD, the area north of Placerita Creek will be zoned NU-5 consistent with all like properties. Mixed -Use Neighborhood and Desired Development Characteristics The future uses and development of the NNA site requires careful advance planning and consideration of any potential projects shall be required to address each of the following subject areas: Public Participation/Outreach Be the subject of public participation and outreach led by the applicant(s) or the applicant's representative, prior to formal submittal of a proposed project to the City. Such outreach would expressly include the Placerita Canyon Property Owners Association, as well as other stakeholders such as the Circle J Ranch Homeowner's Association, the Old Town Newhall Association, the Hidden Knoll and Vista Valencia residents, The Master's College, and the Newhall School District. Traffic Intrusion/Gateways • Be internally and externally pedestrian -oriented, and have equestrian and bicycle amenities and accommodations; • Understand and acknowledge that any development at these locations will increase existing vehicular traffic and create new vehicular traffic, and that there will be impacts to equestrian and pedestrian circulation in the existing neighborhood, and therefore to minimize those impacts, special attention must be given to mitigate impacts caused by such identified access points; • Layout and orientation of any developments shall be designed to discourage and where possible prevent additional trips into Placerita Canyon caused by or resulting from such developments; • Include defined entry gateways or monuments into Placerita Canyon, complete with landscaping and architectural elements with signage expressly stating there is no through traffic allowed. DRAFT May, 2011 L-64 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Buffering and Transitions • Preserve the existing rural equestrian community character known generally as Placerita Canyon, and provide adequate buffers and transitions resulting from any proposed development; • Incorporate the current Santa Clarita Valley Trails Advisory Committee (SCVTAC) network of multi -use trails into adjacent neighborhoods which shall have rural and equestrian characteristics; • Require use of the MWD right-of-way as a landscaped buffer between the NNA within the PCSSD and the rest of Placerita Canyon, which landscaping shall consist of low water, low maintenance, landscape material. Architecture • Consist of 360-degree architectural design with pedestrian -scaled building massing and forms where adjacent to existing residences, with the use of landscaping to visually soften hard edges of buildings; • Structures shall have varied building heights and designs shall create east/west sight lines; • Have transitional densities, as described above, decreasing in density and height in an easterly direction towards the MWD right-of-way away from Railroad Avenue, to include the MWD right-of-way as a landscaped buffer and detached single-family residences adjacent to the MWD right-of-way; • Building heights shall be subject to the same Unified Development Code requirements that apply to all of Placerita Canyon. Flood Control • Waterway bottoms and sides shall not be improved with concrete or hard impervious surfaces and shall be maintained in a natural appearance; • Fencing shall not be permitted to cross riverbeds or waterways in a manner which denies or interferes with easy trail access; • On -site flood control mitigation would provide assistance or relief to other hydrology/drainage impacts within Placerita Canyon due to changes of topography on NNA properties. Housing Types • It is not the City's intent to see affordable housing located on this site; • The desired housing type in the NNA will attract residents who will assist in the economic revitalization of Downtown Newhall. L-65 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Economic Development Based on the area's proximity to the nearby Metrolink station and Old Town Newhall, propose a development that would be an economically sustainable village that is supportive of revitalization efforts, with an appropriate mix of retail, office, restaurant, and general commercial square footage combined with neighboring and integrated housing types. Recreation • Include a site -specific and a community -based recreational component. Summary of Land Use Designations Table L-2 shows the total areas for each of these land use designations within the planning area, by County and City jurisdiction. Table L-3 shows the compatible zone districts within the County and City for each of the land use designations established by this element. Table L-2: Land Use Desi nations and Areas Land Use Designation Area in Acres Units per Acre Total Area Percent City (County) County City Non -Urban 1 (RL20) 24,298.22 0.00 .05 24,298.22 7.82% Non -Urban 2 (RL10) 13,614.52 0.00 .10 13,614.52 4.38% Non -Urban 3 (RL5) 10,092.57 0.00 .20 10,092.57 3.25% Non -Urban 4 (RL2) 16,554.70 1,574.06 .50 18.128.76 5.84% Non -Urban 5 (RL1) 1,872.43 1,681.24 1.00 3,553.67 1.14% Urban Residential 1 (H2) 6,617.77 2,435.42 2.00 9,053.19 2.91 % Urban Residential 2 (H5) 6,062.00 9,172.59 5.00 15,234.59 4.90% Urban Residential 3 0.00 2,087.25 11.00 2,087.25 0.67% Urban Residential 4 (H18) 667.52 242.52 18.00 910.04 0.29% Urban Residential 5 (H30) 407.90 556.74 30.00 964.64 0.29% Mixed Use- Neighborhood 0.00 263.73 263.73 0.08% Mixed Use- Corridor 0.00 324.96 324.96 0.10% Regional Commercial (C) 1,154.87 512.21 1,667.08 0.54% Community Commercial 0.00 905.08 905.08 0.29% Neighborhood Commercial (CG) 465.25 193.57 658.82 0.21 % Business Park (10) 1,967.67 3,286.67 5,254.34 1.69% Industrial (IL) 1,267.91 244.03 1,511.93 0.49% Open Space (OS) 17,241.26 5,502.04 22,743.30 7.32% OS -National Forest (OS-NF) 149,495.00 162.26 149,657.26 48.17% OS -Bureau of Land Management (OS-BLM) 3,427.17 0.00 3,427.174, 506.75 1.10% Specific Plan (SP) 14,540.04 2,545.65 17,085.68 5.50% Public Institutional (P) 4,129.48 1,489.82 5,619.3028 .52 1.80% Non -classified Freeway 2,952.35 533.59 3,485.94 1.12% Total 276,953.011 33, 713.41 310, 666.42 100.00% DRAFT May, 2011 L-66 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Table L-3: Land Use Designation and Zoning Consistency Matrix Land Use Designation Consistent County Zoning Consistent City Zoning Non-Urban/Rural Land Non -Urban 1 Light Agricultural (A-1) Residential Estate (RE) Count RL20 Heavy Agricultural A-2 Non -Urban 2 Light Agricultural (A-1) Residential Estate (RE) Count RL10 Heavy Agricultural A-2 Non -Urban 3 Light Agricultural (A-1) Residential Estate (RE) Count RL5 Heavy Agricultural A-2 Non -Urban 4 Light Agricultural (A-1) Residential Estate (RE) (County RL2) Heavy Agricultural (A-2) Non -Urban 5 Light Agricultural (A-1) Residential Very Low (RVL) (County RL1) Heavy Agricultural (A-2) Residential Agricultural R-A Urban Residential Urban Residential 1 Residential Agricultural (R-A) Residential Low (RL) Count H2 Single -Family Residence R-1 Urban Residential 2 Single -Family Residence (R-1) Residential Suburban (RS) Count H5 Urban Residential 3 No corresponding zones Residential Moderate RM Urban Residential 4 Two-family Residence (R-2) Residential Moderate (RM) Count H18 Limited Multiple Residence R-3 Urban Residential 5 (UR5) Limited Multiple Residence (R-3) Residential Medium High (County H30) Unlimited Residence (R-4) (RMH) Residential High RH Mixed Use Mixed Use Neighborhood No corresponding zones Mixed Use Overlay MU Mixed Use Corridor No corresponding zones Mixed Use Overlay MU Mixed Use Urban Village No corresponding zones Mixed Use Overlay MU Commercial Regional Commercial Unlimited Commercial (C-3) Commercial Town Center (County CM) (CTC) Visitor-Serving/Resort VSR Community Commercial No corresponding zones Community Commercial (CC) Neighborhood Commercial Restricted Business (C-1) Commercial Neighborhood Count CG Neighborhood Business C-2 CN Industrial Business Park Commercial Manufacturing (CM) Business Park(BP) (County 10) Scientific Research & Commercial Office (CO) Development (SR-D); Light Manufacturing M-1 Industrial Light Manufacturing (M-1) Industrial (1) (County IL) Restricted Heavy Manufacturing Industrial Commercial (IC) (M1.5); Heavy Manufacturing M-2 Open Space Open Space Open Space (O-S) Open Space (OS) Count OS National Forest Open Space (O-S) Open Space (OS) Count OS-NF Bureau of Land Open Space O-S Open Space OS L-67 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Designation Consistent County Zoning Consistent City Zoning Management Count OS-BLM Other Specific Plan Count SP Specific Plan (SP) Specific Plan (SP) Public Facility Count P Institutional (IT) All zones M. Reference to Other General Plan Elements In addition to the Land Use Map designation applied to each property within the planning area, other elements in the General Plan contain maps and descriptions of land that is subject to special consideration due to the presence of significant environmental resources or natural hazards. These elements should be consulted for information on any constraints that may affect the approved density or intensity of land uses for any particular parcel of land. The Safety Element identifies properties within the planning area that are subject to the following hazards that may affect development: seismic activity, unstable geologic and soils conditions, flooding and dam inundation, and fire hazards. The Conservation and Open Space Element identifies properties within the planning area that may include the following resources which may require protection as part of the development review process: soils and geological features, scenic views, aggregate and other mineral resources, sensitive biological species and habitat, water resources, cultural and historical resources, and open space. The Noise Element contains information on the locations of noise generators, and areas within the planning area that may be subject to noise levels exceeding recommended thresholds to maintain public health and safety. The Circulation Element indicates locations of existing and future transportation facilities that may be needed to support future development, or that may impact certain types of development if not mitigated through site design or other appropriate requirements. The Economic Development Element illustrates the community benefits to mixed used developments and promotes an increase of jobs in order to have a desirable jobs/housing balance that will result in fewer and shorter vehicular trips. The Housing Element identifies the broad range of housing types and their locations that are in zoning classifications consistent with the Land Use Element. In making any land use decision, all applicable maps, goals and policies should be reviewed and considered to ensure conformity with the entirety of the General Plan. DRAFT May, 2011 L-68 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use N. Summary of Needs for Land Use Planning in the Santa Clarita Valley Based on the discussion of issues as set forth in the background sections of the Land Use Element, and on the projected population growth in the Santa Clarita Valley, the following needs have been identified for land use planning which are addressed in the goals, policies, and Land Use Map portions of this element. 1. Manage growth in the Santa Clarita Valley to maintain livability, mobility, sustainability, and prosperity for all present and future residents. 2. Ensure that the basic needs of residents and businesses are met and that public health, safety and welfare are protected through orderly and equitable designations of land uses throughout the Valley. 3. Maintain the qualities that drew residents to the Valley, including open space and a small-town atmosphere, while accommodating growth at build -out of the planning area. 4. Ensure consistency between County and City visions and plans for the Valley. 5. Recognizing that the Santa Clarita Valley is a Valley of Villages, allow diversity within each neighborhood through appropriate land use designations and community design guidelines. 6. Improve the jobs/housing balance in the Valley, promote businesses that bring higher - paying jobs, and provide opportunities for jobs closer to all residents of the Valley. 7. Provide a wide range of retail, entertainment, and cultural opportunities to serve residents and visitors throughout the planning area. 8. Retain and enhance an open space greenbelt around the Valley through designation of uses that discourage urban sprawl into foothill areas. 9. Promote urban form, community design, and city beautification strategies that unify and enhance the Valley, increase quality of life, and provide a distinctive sense of place. 10. Promote land use strategies that enhance public health and environmental quality. 11. Improve traffic congestion and air quality by promoting mixed -use and transit -oriented development patterns, and planning for improved transit centers and facilities. 12. Provide sufficient land designated for adequate housing affordable to all segments of the Valley's population. 13. Provide for the orderly phasing of infrastructure and public improvements to meet the needs of residents and businesses as development occurs, and require new development to provide the services needed to support growth. 14. Ensure compatibility between intensive uses, including the Chiquita Canyon Landfill and the aggregate mining sites, and adjacent sensitive land uses. 15. Provide incentives and opportunities to redevelop aging commercial and industrial areas. L-69 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan 16. Ensure that growth is supported by adequate natural resources, and that anticipated growth will not deplete or degrade these resources to unsustainable levels. 17. Ensure that growth is supported by adequate community services, and work with all service providers to coordinate land use decisions so as to maintain adequate levels of service. PART 2: LAND USE GOALS AND POLICIES Urban Form Goal LU 1: An interconnected Valley of Villages providing diverse lifestyles, surrounded by a greenbelt of natural open space. Objective LU 1.1: Maintain an urban form for the Santa Clarita Valley that preserves an open space greenbelt around the developed portions of the Valley, protects significant resources from development, and directs growth to urbanized areas served with infrastructure. Policy LU 1.1.1: Where appropriate, protect mountains and foothills surrounding the Valley floor from urban development by designating these areas as Open Space or Non -Urban uses on the Land Use Map. Policy LU 1.1.2: On the Land Use Map, concentrate urban development within flatter portions of the Santa Clarita Valley floor in areas with limited environmental constraints and served with infrastructure. Policy LU 1.1.3: Discourage urban sprawl into rural areas by limiting non- contiguous, "leap -frog" development outside of areas designated for urban use. Policy LU 1.1.4: Preserve community character by maintaining natural features that act as natural boundaries between developed areas, including significant ridgelines, canyons, rivers and drainage courses, riparian areas, topographical features, habitat preserves, or other similar features, where appropriate. Policy LU 1.1.5: Increase infill development and re -use of underutilized sites within and adjacent to developed urban areas to achieve maximum benefit from existing infrastructure and minimize loss of open space, through redesignation of vacant sites for higher density and mixed use, where appropriate. Policy LU 1.1.6: Preserve the rural lifestyle in canyons and low -density, outlying areas of the Santa Clarita Valley, through designating these areas as Non -Urban on the Land Use Map, where appropriate. Policy LU 1.1.7: Preserve and protect important agricultural resources, including farmland and grazing land, through designating these areas as Open Space and Non -Urban on the Land Use Map, where appropriate. DRAFT May, 2011 L-70 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Objective LU 1.2: Maintain the distinctive community character of villages and neighborhoods throughout the planning area by establishing uses, densities, and design guidelines appropriate to the particular needs and goals of each area, including but not limited to the following: Policy LU 1.2.1: In Newhall, provide opportunities for new business and housing by implementing the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan, provide incentives to promote infill development and re -use of underutilized sites, and continue to plan for the future development of North Newhall. Policy LU 1.2.2: In Valencia, promote business development, job creation, and expansion of regional commercial, civic, cultural, and entertainment uses, to create a vibrant Town Center serving as a community focal point for the entire Santa Clarita Valley. Policy LU 1.2.3: In Saugus, promote revitalization of older commercial areas; relieve traffic congestion; look for opportunities to minimize cut -through traffic; and enhance streetscapes with landscaping, lighting, benches and other fixtures. Policy LU 1.2.4: In Canyon Country, promote revitalization along Sierra Highway from Soledad Canyon Road to Vasquez Canyon Road by encouraging retail and service uses, and enhance on and off ramps along the Antelope Valley Freeway with landscape amenities and appropriate uses. Policy LU 1.2.5: In Sand Canyon, ensure compatibility of development with existing rural, equestrian lots and the adjacent National Forest land; provide additional recreational trail links; minimize impacts to the Santa Clara River from incompatible development; and maintain community character in accordance with the City's Sand Canyon Special Standards District. Policy LU 1.2.6: : In Placerita Canyon, ensure compatibility of development with existing rural, equestrian lots and the adjacent National Forest land; maintain community character in accordance with the City's existing Placerita Canyon Special Standards District (PCSSD); provide an orderly transition between existing rural and low -density residential uses and proposed new development; and require the provision of needed infrastructure. . The City and the Placerita Canyon Property Owners Association shall work together to amend the PCSSD in the Unified Development Code (UDC) to provide additional certainty and expectations for the developed areas within the District and to create flexibility and continuity, subject to the provisions outlined above, for undeveloped properties in the District. These changes will include transitional density provisions, specific UDC rules and regulations that will clearly outline development codes within Placerita Canyon. Policy LU 1.2.7: On the Wh ittaker- Berm ite site, continue to work with the property owner to facilitate master planning, remediation, and the economic re- use of the property to include roadway infrastructure and transit -oriented development around the Metrolink station. L-71 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy LU 1.2.8: In Castaic, promote expansion of neighborhood commercial uses to serve local residents; address traffic congestion; and ensure compatibility between highway -oriented commercial uses and nearby residential uses; and maintain community character in accordance with the County's Castaic Area Community Standards District. Policy LU 1.2.9: In Val Verde, protect the existing rural lifestyle and small town community character while providing residents with additional access to needed services; and ensure compatibility between existing residential areas and the nearby landfill; and maintain community character in accordance with the County's Castaic Area Community Standards District. Policy LU 1.2.10: In Agua Dulce, recognize the scenic and environmental qualities of Vasquez Rocks in future planning; protect the existing rural lifestyle while providing opportunities to enhance the village center; and provide additional services to residents; and maintain community character in accordance with the County's Agua Dulce Community Standards District. Policy LU 1.2.11: In Pico Canyon, recognize the historic significance of Mentryville in future planning; preserve the existing rural development pattern; and ensure compatibility of new development with the adjacent Significant Ecological Area and habitat. Policy LU 1.2.12: In the Fair Oaks community, facilitate location of commercial and community services in proximity to residences to serve local needs. Policy LU 1.2.13: Encourage use of the specific plan process to plan for cohesive, vibrant, pedestrian -oriented communities with mixed uses, access to public transit, and opportunities for living and working within the same community. Policy LU 1.2.14: Evaluate development fee schedules on an ongoing basis to determine fee incentives to attract development. Objective LU 1.3: Plan for density and intensity of development that respects and is reflective of the natural terrain. Policy LU 1.3.1: Encourage subdivision design techniques that reflect underlying physical topography or other unique physical features of the natural terrain. Policy LU 1.3.2: Substantially retain the integrity and natural grade elevations of significant natural ridgelines and prominent landforms that form the Valley's skyline backdrop. Policy LU 1.3.3: Discourage development on ridgelines and lands containing 50% slopes so that these areas are maintained as natural open space. Policy LU 1.3.4: Encourage density transfers where appropriate to facilitate development in more suitable locations while retaining significant natural slopes and areas of environmental sensitivity, provided that urban densities (exceeding one dwelling unit per acre) are not permitted in rural areas. DRAFT May, 2011 L-72 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Policy LU 1.3.5: Encourage flexible siting and design techniques within hillside areas in order to preserve steep slopes or other unique physical features, including clustering of residential units provided all residential lots meet the applicable minimum lot size requirements of the Land Use Element and the Zoning Ordinance, including the Community Special Standards Districts. Policy LU 1.3.6: Encourage retention of natural drainage patterns and the preservation of significant riparian areas, both of which are commonly located in hillside areas. Mixed Land Uses Goal LU 2: A mix of land uses to accommodate growth, supported by adequate resources and maintaining community assets. Objective LU 2.1: Provide adequate, suitable sites for housing, employment, business, shopping, public facilities, public utility facilities, and community services to meet current needs and the anticipated needs of future growth. Policy LU 2.1.1: On the Land Use Map, designate a balance of land uses in appropriate amounts to meet future community needs, while ensuring that no use designation is over -represented in a manner that is not economically viable. Policy LU 2.1.2: On the Land Use Map, integrate land use designations in a manner that promotes healthy, walkable communities, by providing an appropriate mix of residential and service uses in proximity to one another. Policy LU 2.1.3: Provide a range of land use types and densities to reflect the special characteristics, lifestyles, and opportunities that differentiate various communities and villages in the Santa Clarita Valley, including urban, suburban, and rural living environments. Policy LU 2.1.4: Adopt a compatible set of land use designations between the County and City of Santa Clarita for land in the Santa Clarita Valley, to be implemented through standards and zones applied by each agency to ensure compatibility with the character of each area and with the goals of the County's Area Plan and the City's General Plan. Policy LU 2.1.5: Identify areas with hazardous conditions and ensure that uses in or adjacent to these areas pose minimal risk to public health or safety. Objective LU 2.2: Protect significant community resources from encroachment by incompatible uses, where feasible and appropriate. Policy LU 2.2.1: Identify areas of scenic or aesthetic value to the community, and minimize the designation of uses in these areas that would diminish their aesthetic quality. Policy LU 2.2.2: Identify sites and areas with historical or cultural value to the community, and ensure that uses in or adjacent to these areas will not impact their historical integrity. L-73 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy LU 2.2.3: Consistent with adopted plans, ensure that adequate open space is set aside and protected from development throughout the planning area in order to provide the benefits of watershed management, habitat preservation and connectivity, and recreational opportunities. Objective LU 2.3: Increase mixed -use development where appropriate to create more livable neighborhoods, walkable business districts, and to reduce vehicle trips, while ensuring land use compatibility, through mixed -use zoning: Policy LU 2.3.1: In a mixed -use development, residential densities at the higher end of the allowed range should be allowed only if the development incorporates a robust mix of non-residential uses. Policy LU 2.3.2: Either vertical or horizontal integration of uses shall be allowed in a mixed -use development, with an emphasis on tying together the uses with appropriate pedestrian linkages. Policy LU 2.3.3: Manufacturing, processing of goods and materials, and warehousing shall not be allowable uses in a mixed -use development although some light manufacturing and warehousing may be appropriate in second story units. Policy LU 2.3.4: Adequate public spaces and amenities shall be provided in a mixed -use development to support both commercial and residential uses, including but not limited to plazas, landscaped walkways, village greens, and greenbelts. Policy LU 2.3.5: Mixed -use developments shall be designed to create a pedestrian -scale environment through appropriate street and sidewalk widths, block lengths, relationship of buildings to streets, and use of public spaces. Policy LU 2.3.6: Provide parking alternatives in mixed -use developments, including subterranean parking and structured parking to limit the amount of surface area devoted to vehicle storage. Healthy Neighborhoods Goal LU 3: Healthy and safe neighborhoods for all residents. Objective LU 3.1: Provide for a diversity of housing types available to provide safe and suitable homes for all economic levels, household sizes, age groups and special needs groups within the community. Policy LU 3.1.1: On the Land Use Map, designate adequate land for residential use at various densities to provide a mix of housing opportunities for all segments of the population, including attached, detached, senior, and mixed -use housing types, which are consistent with community character and meet the region's housing goals. DRAFT May, 2011 L-74 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Policy LU 3.1.2: Provide a mix of housing types within neighborhoods that accommodate households with varied income levels. Policy LU 3.1.3: Promote opportunities for live -work units to accommodate residents with home -based businesses. Policy LU 3.1.4: Promote development of workforce housing to meet the needs of those employed in the Santa Clarita Valley. Policy LU 3.1.5: Promote development of housing that is affordable to residents, including households with incomes in the very low, low, and moderate income classifications, through provision of adequate sites on the Land Use Map, allowance for density bonuses and other development incentives. Policy LU 3.1.6: Promote development of housing suitable to residents with special needs, including but not limited to senior citizens and persons with disabilities. Policy LU 3.1.7: Promote development of housing for students attending local colleges, in consideration of access to campuses to the extent practicable. Objective LU 3.2: Promote walkable neighborhoods that provide safe access to community services and essential services. Policy LU 3.2.1: Require provision of adequate walkways in urban residential neighborhoods that provide safe and accessible connections to destinations such as schools, parks, and neighborhood commercial centers. Policy LU 3.2.2: In planning residential neighborhoods, include pedestrian linkages, landscaped parkways with sidewalks, and separated trails for pedestrians and bicycles, where appropriate and feasible. Objective LU 3.3: Ensure that the design of residential neighborhoods considers and includes measures to reduce impacts from natural or man-made hazards. Policy LU 3.3.1: Identify areas subject to hazards from seismic activity, unstable soils, excessive noise, unhealthful air quality, or flooding, and avoid designating residential uses in these areas unless adequately mitigated. Policy LU 3.3.2: In areas subject to wildland fire danger, ensure that land uses have adequate setbacks, fuel modification areas, and emergency access routes. Policy LU 3.3.3: Identify neighborhoods in which uses that pose a potential hazard to human health and safety may be over -concentrated, and address public safety through use of buffer areas, policies on siting decisions for such uses, changing land use designations, or other means as deemed appropriate. Policy LU 3.3.4: Evaluate service levels for law enforcement and fire protection as needed to ensure that adequate response times are maintained as new residential development is occupied. L-75 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy LU 3.3.5: Through the development review process, ensure that all new residential development is provided with adequate emergency access and that subdivision and site designs permit ready access by public safety personnel. Policy LU 3.3.6: Ensure adequate street -lighting in all urban residential neighborhoods, as appropriate, for each community. Policy LU 3.3.7: Ensure adequate addressing in all residential neighborhoods for emergency response personnel. Policy LU 3.3.8: Within multiple family residential projects comprised of multiple buildings, ensure that project designs include crime prevention measures such as delineating public and private open space, designs for defensible space, easy surveillance by residents of all outdoor and indoor common areas, lack of dead end aisles or paths, and similar measures. Objective LU 3.4: Encourage creation of pleasant neighborhoods that provide a high quality of life for residents. Policy LU 3.4.1: Promote the inclusion of green spaces, neighborhood parks, and other gathering places that allow neighbors to meet one another and encourage "eyes on the street" for safety purposes. Policy LU 3.4.2: Ensure provision of street trees in urban residential areas where appropriate, to provide shade, comfort, and aesthetic enhancement. Policy LU 3.4.3: Provide appropriate levels of code enforcement to ensure maintenance of neighborhoods in a clean, healthy, and safe condition. Policy LU 3.4.4: Within higher density housing developments, ensure provision of adequate recreational and open space amenities to ensure a high quality living environment. Policy LU 3.4.5: Ensure compatibility between single family and multiple family residential developments through consideration of building height and massing, architectural treatment, connectivity, privacy, and other design considerations. Policy LU 3.4.6: Promote mixed -density residential neighborhoods that are consistent with community character, and avoid over -development of high density multiple family units in any particular location. Policy LU 3.4.7: Minimize the prominence of areas devoted to automobile parking and access in the design of residential neighborhoods. Policy LU 3.4.8: Require architectural design treatment along all sides of new housing to promote continuity of architectural scale and rhythm and avoid the appearance of blank walls (360 degree enhancement). Policy LU 3.4.9: Encourage street cross -sections that locate landscaped parkways between the curb and the sidewalk to create a visually pleasing streetscape and provide pedestrian protection. DRAFT May, 2011 L-76 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Economic Vitality Goal LU 4: A diverse and healthy economy. Objective LU 4.1: Promote creation of strong regional and local economies. Policy LU 4.1.1: Promote expansion and enhancement of the Valencia Town Center to provide a focal point for cultural, civic, educational, and shopping activities serving the entire Santa Clarita Valley. Policy LU 4.1.2: Promote creation of village commercial centers throughout the Santa Clarita Valley to meet the local and convenience needs of residents. Policy LU 4.1.3: Direct business creation and expansion for larger companies within and adjacent to existing and planned business centers and major transportation corridors. Policy LU 4.1.4: Promote economic opportunity for all segments of the community, including small businesses and new businesses. Policy LU 4.1.5: Provide a clear and consistent planning and permitting process to encourage new development that conforms to the General Plan. Policy LU 4.1.6: Encourage the development of a range of child care services and facilities to serve the needs of working families, including public and private child care centers, infant care, and after -school care, through supportive zoning regulations and permitting procedures. Objective LU 4.2: Promote job creation, focusing on employment generators in the technical and professional sectors. Policy LU 4.2.1: Pursue business attraction and expansion programs for clean industries that provide job opportunities for local residents, particularly in the areas of film/entertainment, biotechnology, aerospace, and technology. Policy LU 4.2.2: Achieve a balanced ratio of jobs to housing through business expansion and economic development programs, with a goal of at least 1.5 jobs per household. Policy LU 4.2.3: Encourage businesses to locate in all appropriate areas of the community to encourage job creation in closer proximity to workforce housing. Policy LU 4.2.4: Coordinate with local colleges to promote job training programs for Santa Clarita Valley residents. Policy LU 4.2.5: Promote development of uses that create job opportunities for residents through the Santa Clarita Enterprise Zone and other business assistance programs as appropriate. Objective LU 4.3: Enhance older commercial and industrial areas. L-77 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy LU 4.3.1: Promote redevelopment in Old Town Newhall through construction of public improvements pursuant to the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan and future area planning efforts. Policy LU 4.3.2: Promote business development in Castaic and Val Verde to provide a greater range of goods and services to area residents. Policy LU 4.3.3: Promote revitalization of commercial uses along Sierra Highway between Soledad Canyon Road and Vasquez Canyon Road, to encourage businesses serving the Canyon Country neighborhoods and support services for the College of the Canyons east campus. Policy LU 4.3.4: Promote business development that upgrades and revitalizes older commercial corridors, including Lyons Avenue, Railroad Avenue/Newhall Avenue, Main Street and Soledad Canyon Road, in a manner that reflects each area's character, architecture, and history. Policy LU 4.3.5: Coordinate with property owners and environmental agencies, and provide assistance as appropriate, to promote clean up and redevelopment of the Whittaker Bermite property as a business and employment center. Policy LU 4.3.6: Coordinate with property owners and environmental agencies, and provide assistance as appropriate, to promote clean up and remediation of oil fields west of State Route 14. Policy LU 4.3.7: Promote revitalization and reuse of the older industrial areas east of the railroad, adjacent to the intersection of Springbrook and Drayton Avenues and in the Honby area adjacent to the Santa Clara River. Objective LU 4.4: Expand infrastructure to attract and sustain new business. Policy LU 4.4.1: Promote extension of state-of-the-art communication facilities to serve commercial and industrial areas, including fiber optic cable, telecommunication facilities, and other technology as deemed appropriate. Policy LU 4.4.2: Improve flood control facilities along Sierra Highway north of Soledad Canyon Road to allow increased use of this corridor for business and employment uses. Policy LU 4.4.3: Evaluate the feasibility of connecting business activity centers throughout the Santa Clarita Valley with light rail, to provide increased mobility and access for customers and employees between the Valencia Town Center, Whittaker Bermite property, Newhall, Valencia Industrial Center, Magic Mountain and Entrada, Newhall Ranch, and other areas as deemed appropriate. Policy LU 4.4.4: Protect and enhance public utility facilities as necessary to maintain the safety, reliability, integrity, and security of essential public service systems for all Valley residents. Objective LU 4.5: Ensure creation of attractive and technology -friendly business environments to attract tenants and employees. DRAFT May, 2011 L-78 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Mobility Policy LU 4.5.1: Promote inclusion of employee amenities in the workplace, including but not limited to outdoor seating and break areas, child care services, wellness facilities, and facilities for bicycle commuters, including bike lockers and showers where appropriate. Policy LU 4.5.2: Encourage the provision of usable open space that is accessible to employees and visitors, and discourage the provision of large areas of water -consuming landscaping that are not usable or accessible. Policy LU 4.5.3: Promote the inclusion of state-of-the-art technology within business complexes for telecommunications, heating and cooling, water and energy conservation, and other similar design features. Policy LU 4.5.4: Encourage the provision of support services for employees within business park areas, such as dining and personal services where appropriate, to reduce vehicle trips and promote pedestrian -friendly work environments. Goal LU 5: Enhanced mobility through alternative transportation choices and land use patterns. Objective LU 5.1: Provide for alternative travel modes linking neighborhoods, commercial districts, and job centers. Policy LU 5.1.1: Require safe, secure, clearly -delineated, adequately - illuminated walkways and bicycle facilities in all commercial and business centers. Policy LU 5.1.2: Require connectivity between walkways and bikeways serving neighborhoods and nearby commercial areas, schools, parks, and other supporting services and facilities. Policy LU 5.1.3: Ensure that adequate bus turnouts, served by walkways and comfortable, safe, and convenient waiting facilities, are provided for transit users within residential, shopping, and business developments. Objective LU 5.2: Coordinate land use designations with support services and public transit in order to encourage vehicle trip reduction. Policy LU 5.2.1: Designate higher -density residential uses in areas served by public transit and a full range of support services. Policy LU 5.2.2: Provide for location of neighborhood commercial uses in proximity to the neighborhoods they serve, to encourage cycling and walking to local stores. Policy LU 5.2.3: Promote location of non-polluting businesses providing employment opportunities in proximity to neighborhoods, to encourage walking to work. L-79 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy LU 5.2.4: Encourage transit -oriented development (TOD) through designation of land uses that allow compact, mixed -use development in proximity to rail stations and multi -modal transit facilities, in conformance with applicable policies. Policy LU 5.2.5: Encourage the mix of compatible uses in areas where, though not served by rail or transit, mixed uses will achieve more walkable neighborhoods and trip reduction, in conformance with applicable policies. Community Appearance Goal LU 6: A scenic and beautiful urban environment that builds on the community's history and natural setting. Objective LU 6.1: Maintain the natural beauty of the Santa Clarita Valley's hillsides, significant ridgelines, canyons, oak woodlands, rivers and streams. Policy LU 6.1.1: Designate ridgelines throughout the planning area, and preserve these ridgelines from development by encouraging a minimum distance for grading and development from these ridgelines of 50 feet, or more, if determined preferable by the reviewing authority based on site conditions. Policy LU 6.1.2: On the Land Use Map, designate publicly owned portions of the Santa Clara River corridor and its major tributaries, as Open Space. Policy LU 6.1.3: Ensure that new development in hillside areas is designed to protect the scenic backdrop of foothills and canyons enjoyed by Santa Clarita Valley communities, through requiring compatible hillside management techniques that may include but are not limited to clustering of development; contouring and landform grading; revegetation with native plants; limited site disturbance; avoidance of tall retaining and build-up walls; use of stepped pads; and other techniques as deemed appropriate. Objective LU 6.2: Provide attractive public and open spaces in places visited by residents and visitors, where feasible and appropriate. Policy LU 6.2.1: Promote the inclusion of plazas, courtyards, seating areas, public art, and similar features within commercial centers, business parks, and civic facilities visited by the general public. Policy LU 6.2.2: Provide and enhance trail heads where appropriate with landscaping, seating, trash receptacles and information kiosks. Objective LU 6.3: Beautify streetscapes and gateways to the community. Policy LU 6.3.1: Promote planting of street trees throughout urban areas in the Santa Clarita Valley. Policy LU 6.3.2: Develop compatible landscape plans for major arterials traversing the Santa Clarita Valley, including landscaped medians and parkways, and implement these plans in both City and County areas, where feasible and appropriate based on right of way and other conditions. DRAFT May, 2011 L-80 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Policy LU 6.3.3: Enhance major entrance points to the community, including on and off ramps from Interstate 5 and State Route 14; entrances along State Route 126; and at the northern and southern entrance points on Sierra Highway, where feasible and appropriate. Policy LU 6.3.4: Require undergrounding of utility lines for new development where feasible, and plan for undergrounding of existing utility lines in conjunction with street improvement projects where economically feasible. Policy LU 6.3.5: Restrict the establishment of billboards within the planning area. Objective LU 6.4: Protect the Santa Clarita Valley's significant historical and cultural resources in a scenic setting through appropriate land use designations. Policy LU 6.4.1: Maintain the historic buildings in Newhall, including the William Hart Regional Park buildings, the Tom Mix cottages at Heritage Junction, the American Theater, the Melody Ranch, and various other commercial and residential structures designated as local historic resources, through implementation of preservation measures in the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan. Policy LU 6.4.2: Enhance the area around historic Lang Station by requiring a Specific Plan for redevelopment of this area. Policy LU 6.4.3: Maintain cultural resources from pre -historical Native American habitation and historical settlement in the areas around Vasquez Rocks, Elsmere Canyon, and along the Santa Clara River, through designation of these areas as Open Space on the Land Use Map. Policy LU 6.4.4: Maintain the historic site of Mentryville by designating the site as Open Space on the Land Use Map. Policy LU 6.4.5: Maintain the historic area of the Rancho San Francisco Estancia through implementation of preservation measures in the Newhall Ranch Specific Plan. Policy LU 6.4.6: Through the environmental review and development review processes, evaluate impacts on historic and cultural sites from proposed development and require appropriate mitigation. Objective LU 6.5: Promote high quality development that enhances the urban environment and builds long-term value. Policy LU 6.5.1: Require use of high quality, durable, and natural -appearing building materials pursuant to applicable ordinances. Policy LU 6.5.2: Encourage the use of designs and architectural styles that incorporate classic and timeless architectural features. L-81 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy LU 6.5.3: Require architectural enhancement and articulation on all sides of buildings (360 degree architecture), with special consideration at building entrances and corners, and along facades adjacent to major arterial streets. Policy LU 6.5.4: Evaluate new development in consideration of its context, to ensure that buildings create a coherent living environment, a cohesive urban fabric, and contribute to a sense of place consistent with the surrounding neighborhoods. Environmentally Responsible Development Goal LU 7: Environmentally responsible development through site planning, building design, waste reduction, and responsible stewardship of resources. Objective LU 7.1: Achieve greater energy efficiency in building and site design. Policy LU 7.1.1: Require shade trees within parking lots and adjacent to buildings to reduce the heat island effect, in consideration of Fire Department fuel modification restrictions. Policy LU 7.1.2: Promote the use of solar panels and renewable energy sources in all projects. Policy LU 7.1.3: Encourage development of energy -efficient buildings, and discourage construction of new buildings for which energy efficiency cannot be demonstrated. Policy LU 7.1.4: Support the establishment of energy -efficient industries in the Santa Clarita Valley. Objective LU 7.2: Ensure an adequate water supply to meet the demands of growth. Policy LU 7.2.1: Monitor growth, and coordinate with water districts as needed to ensure that long-range needs for potable and reclaimed water will be met. Policy LU 7.2.2: If water supplies are reduced from projected levels due to drought, emergency, or other unanticipated events, take appropriate steps to limit, reduce, or otherwise modify growth permitted by the General Plan in consultation with water districts to ensure adequate long-term supply for existing businesses and residents. Policy LU 7.2.3: Require that all new development proposals demonstrate a sufficient and sustainable water supply prior to approval. Objective LU 7.3: Protect surface and ground water quality through design of development sites and drainage improvements. Policy LU 7.3.1: Promote the use of permeable paving materials to allow infiltration of surface water into the water table. DRAFT May, 2011 L-82 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Policy LU 7.3.2: Maintain stormwater runoff onsite by directing drainage into rain gardens, natural landscaped swales, rain barrels, permeable areas, and use of drainage areas as design elements, where feasible and reasonable. Policy LU 7.3.3: Seek methods to decrease impermeable site area where reasonable and feasible, in order to reduce stormwater runoff and increase groundwater infiltration, including use of shared parking and other means as appropriate. Policy LU 7.3.4: Implement best management practices for erosion control throughout the construction and development process. Policy LU 7.3.5: Limit development within flood -prone areas to minimize down- stream impacts. Objective LU 7.4: Promote water conservation through building and site design. Policy LU 7.4.1: Require the use of drought tolerant landscaping, native California plant materials, and evapotranspiration (smart) irrigation systems. Policy LU 7.4.2: Require the use of low -flow fixtures in all non-residential development and residential development with five or more dwelling units, which may include but are not limited to water conserving shower heads, toilets, waterless urinals and motion -sensor faucets, and encourage use of such fixtures in building retrofits as appropriate. Objective LU 7.5: Promote waste reduction through site and building design. Policy LU 7.5.1: Ensure that all new development provides adequate space for recycling receptacles and bins on site. Policy LU 7.5.2: Promote the use of recycled building materials. Objective LU 7.6: Protect natural habitats through site design where reasonable and feasible. Policy LU 7.6.1: Limit outdoor lighting levels to the minimum needed for safety and security, and encourage lower lighting levels when businesses are closed. Policy LU 7.6.2: Preserve habitat connectivity in site planning where feasible, and discourage the creation of open space islands surrounded by paving. Policy LU 7.6.3: Protect wildlife corridors through site design and appropriate land use designations, including mapped corridors and other corridors that may be identified through biological surveys. Policy LU 7.6.4: Encourage site designs that protect oak trees, hillsides, and biological resources through creative solutions. Objective LU 7.7: Protect significant mineral resources, natural gas storage facilities, and petroleum extraction facilities from encroachment by incompatible uses. L-83 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy LU 7.7.1: Maintain a suitable distance and/or provide buffering to separate aggregate mining and processing activities from nearby residential uses and other uses with sensitive receptors to noise and airborne emissions. Policy LU 7.7.2: Avoid designating land uses in areas with significant mineral resources or utility facilities that would preclude the future extraction and use of those resources and facilities. Policy LU-7.3.6: Support emerging methods and technologies for the onsite capture, treatment, and infiltration of stormwater and greywater, and amend the City Code to allow these methods and technologies when they are proven to be safe and feasible. Policy LU 7.7.3: Encourage the operators of existing surface mines to consider an end use site restoration plan that will result in land use conversions to aide in implementing the jobs -housing balance policies, economic vitality goals and policies, and which will reinforce the image of the Santa Clarita Valley as an eco- conscious community. Objective LU 7.8: Protect significant woodlands, heritage oak trees, and other biological resources from the impacts of development. Policy LU 7.8.1: Adopt and implement consistent policies for protection of oak woodlands and oak trees throughout the planning area. Policy LU 7.8.2: Protect all designated Significant Ecological Areas (SEA's) from incompatible development. Environmental Justice Goal LU 8: Equitable and convenient access to social, cultural, educational, civic, medical, and recreational facilities and opportunities for all residents. Objective LU 8.1: Work with service providers to plan for adequate community facilities and services to meet the needs of present and future residents. Policy LU 8.1.1: Coordinate plans for new residential development with affected school districts to ensure adequate mitigation of impacts on school facilities; provision of facilities and programs to promote academic excellence for Santa Clarita Valley students; coordination on joint use of facilities and transportation; and long-range planning. Policy LU 8.1.2: Implement a master plan for trails throughout the Santa Clarita Valley to serve all residents. Policy LU 8.1.3: Implement a master plan for parks, with special focus on provision of additional playfields for youth sports in locations accessible to underserved neighborhoods. DRAFT May, 2011 L-84 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Policy LU 8.1.4: Ensure that an adequate and diverse supply of child care facilities and services is available to parents who live and/or work in the Santa Clarita Valley, by promoting child care facilities in commercial and residential areas subject to the applicable zoning requirements Policy LU 8.1.5: Coordinate with the Los Angeles County Library System to assist in expanding library services as needed to meet the needs of the community. Policy LU 8.1.6: Coordinate with the Arts Alliance and other similar entities to promote access to cultural events and facilities for all residents. Policy LU 8.1.7: Work with medical service providers to facilitate preservation and enhancement of health services, including the Santa Clarita Valley's trauma center, provided applications are in conformance with applicable General Plan policies and environmental requirements. Policy LU 8.1.8: Work with social service agencies providing assistance to homeless persons to develop and maintain a suitable shelter in the Santa Clarita Valley. Policy LU 8.1.9: Assist persons and households with temporary housing needs by promoting transitional housing facilities for victims of domestic violence in multiple -family residential land use designations, subject to applicable zoning requirements. Policy LU 8.1.10: Coordinate with agencies that provide services to seniors and the elderly to expand senior facilities, which may include a new senior center. Policy LU 8.1.11: Work with existing utilities, agencies and renewable energy companies to remove barriers to renewable energy production. Policy LU 8.1.12: The City, County and the school districts shall cooperate to identify appropriate land to construct new school facilities throughout the planning area. Annual information and update meetings between the planning agencies and the districts are encouraged. Policy LU 8.1.13: In meeting state law for mitigation, there may be times when additional resources are required in order for the district to fully provide necessary services. Accordingly, Developers are encouraged to reach full mitigation agreements with the appropriate school districts impacted by their proposed project. Mitigation may include, but might not be limited to, modifications to existing school sites. Policy LU 8.1.14: Developers of infill projects shall be aware of the potential cumulative effect that these smaller projects have on schools. Pre and post construction, infill projects shall be monitored to evaluate student generation rates. L-85 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy LU 8.1.15: Proposed school sites shall be sufficiently sized, pre -identified and on California Department of Education and Department of Toxic Substances Control approvable land. Further site design considerations shall include appropriate pedestrian and bicycle access. Objective LU 8.2: Ensure equal access to community services and facilities by all residents. Policy LU 8.2.1: In making locational decisions for siting new community facilities, consider ease of access for all users (vehicular, pedestrian, and transit). Policy LU 8.2.2: Identify neighborhoods that are underserved by public facilities and community services, and plan for equitable distribution of these facilities. Objective LU 8.3: Promote equitable development and utilization of land. Policy LU 8.3.1: Require fair and equitable treatment in considering, adopting, implementing, and enforcing development regulations and policies, including but not limited to providing equal opportunity for public input and considering impacts from development approvals on all segments of the population. Public Facilities Goal LU 9: Adequate public facilities and services, provided in a timely manner and in appropriate locations to serve existing and future residents and businesses. Objective LU 9.1: Coordinate land use planning with provision of adequate public services and facilities to support development. Policy LU 9.1.1: Ensure construction of adequate infrastructure to meet the needs of new development prior to occupancy. Policy LU 9.1.2: Coordinate review of development projects with other agencies and special districts providing utilities and other services. Policy LU 9.1.3: Protect major utility transmission corridors, pumping stations, reservoirs, booster stations, and other similar facilities from encroachment by incompatible uses, while allowing non -intrusive uses such as plant nurseries, greenbelts and recreational trails. Policy LU 9.1.4: Develop and apply compatible standards within City and County areas for design and maintenance of utility infrastructure, in consideration of the character of each community. Policy LU 9.1.5: Work with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department to expand law enforcement facilities to meet the needs of the Santa Clarita Valley's growing population. Policy LU 9.1.6: Coordinate with appropriate agencies and organizations to ensure that landfill expansion needs are met while minimizing adverse impacts to Valley residents. DRAFT May, 2011 L-86 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Policy LU 9.1.7: Provide for location of additional waste transfer stations and other facilities to promote recycling and reuse of materials within Industrial designations on the Land Use Map, subject to applicable zoning requirements. Objective LU 9.2: Coordination of City and County sewer master planning and sewer mitigation to support future development and avoid fiscal impacts to local government or the existing community. Policy LU 9.2.1: Ensure that the cost of extending new sewer infrastructure is fully borne by the new development that is served, and is not passed on to the existing community. Policy LU 9.2.2: Require that all new development mitigates its impact on existing sewer capacity by upgrading facilities when warranted or payment of a fee to allow construction of new facilities when needed. Policy LU 9.2.3: Develop a common City/County capacity -based threshold to determine when new development will be required to construct upsized downstream sewer facilities. Policy LU 9.2.4: Facilitate the efficient construction of sewer infrastructure by sizing facilities to accommodate anticipated future sewer flows within the sewershed. Policy LU 9.2.5: Cooperate with the development community to allow reimbursement for the cost of constructed sewer facilities with a capacity that exceeds what would be required to mitigate a project's own sewer impact. Policy LU 9.2.6: Coordinate to ensure that new development projects have agreed to mitigate both City and County sewer impacts prior to project approval. Policy LU 9.2.7: Ensure that properties which benefit from increased density or intensity of development resulting from a General Plan Amendments fully mitigate their increased sewer impact at the time that development or redevelopment occurs on their properties. L-87 DRAFT May, 2011 Land Use City of Santa Clarita General Plan PART 3: IMPLEMENTATION OF THE LAND USE ELEMENT The City of Santa Clarita will implement the goals, objectives and policies of the Land Use Element of the Santa Clarita Valley General Plan through the following actions. 1. Revise the City's Development Code and other development related ordinances as needed to ensure consistency with the updated General Plan. 2. Through the review process for new development entitlements, require all new development to be consistent with maps, goals and policies of the General Plan. 3. Update master plans for drainage, streets, trails, parks, and other City infrastructure and facilities in conformance with the General Plan. 4. Revise the City's Capital Improvement Program as needed to incorporate needed capital projects identified in General Plan update. 5. Conduct a yearly review of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) by the Planning Commission to determine consistency of the annual CIP with all elements of the General Plan. 6. Conduct an annual review of the General Plan and file a report with the California Office of Planning and Research and Department of Community Development pursuant to Government Code Section 65400(a)(2). 7. Ensure that any acquisition of real property for public use is consistent with the General Plan, pursuant to Government Code Section 65402. 8. In cooperation with the County of Los Angeles, develop and adopt consistent policies and guidelines for hillside development and ridgeline protection within the Santa Clarita Valley. 9. In cooperation with the County of Los Angeles, develop and adopt consistent policies and guidelines for streetscape beautification, enhancement of Valley gateways, enhancement of regional trail facilities, transit benches and shelters, and other similar features that will create a distinctive community identity for the Santa Clarita Valley. 10. In cooperation with the County of Los Angeles, develop and implement consistent policies for protection of oak woodlands and significant trees throughout the planning area. 11. In cooperation with the County of Los Angeles, coordinate review of major development projects such as specific plans and projects that may have regional impacts, in order to ensure consistency of such projects with the mutual objectives of the General Plan. 12. In cooperation with the County of Los Angeles, review any proposed General Plan Amendments that may have regional effects to ensure compliance with applicable mutually adopted goals and objectives. 13. Monitor effectiveness of the General Plan in achieving the goals of the community regarding land use, and initiate amendments thereto as needed to meet changing conditions, needs, and objectives. DRAFT May, 2011 L-88 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise NOISE ELEMENT DRAFT — MAY, 2011 PART 1: BACKGROUND AND NOISE ISSUES A. Historical Context The noise environment within the OVOV planning area has evolved in a manner consistent with historical development patterns of this Valley. Early land use patterns were primarily rural in nature while incorporating limited residential development including support services typically found in suburban communities. These residential neighborhoods were predominantly supported by employment centers located outside the OVOV planning area including the San Fernando Valley and downtown Los Angeles. Neighborhoods were dispersed in a manner consistent with an emerging suburban community while maintaining a significant portion of the rural character resulting in corresponding noise levels. Early forecast models developed by SCAG projected development within the OVOV planning area to result in a more diverse and robust community. This community was to include a residential base that integrated centers of employment and economic diversity that would result in an increasingly self sustaining community. In 1967, the first residents of the newly master planned community of Valencia relocated to the area. Additional noise sources formed with the development of Valencia and the enhancement of the newly developing community including the increased use of Interstate 5 and State Route 14 in addition to the established railway. This development brought new residents and increased employment opportunities including the development of the Valencia Industrial Center. Historical sources of noise within the Santa Clarita Valley centered on unique land uses such as Magic Mountain amusement park, Saugus Speedway, the operation of the Whittaker Bermite site, and movie ranch filming activities. More recently, event -specific noise generators such as the Amgen Tour of California, Cowboy Festival and numerous other community based events and activities have created additional noise generators that have added texture to the present noise environment. In 1987, the City of Santa Clarita was incorporated to include portions of the communities of Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia. Acknowledging various preferences in residential lifestyles, subsequent development focused on the maintenance of distinct neighborhoods such as Placerita Canyon and Sand Canyon as exemplified by the creation of Special Standards Districts primarily focused on maintaining the rural and equestrian nature of these communities. Likewise, new developments focused on providing lifestyle amenities including ease of access to recreational opportunities and retail shopping centers. This diversified approach established a variation of ambient noise within distinct living environments that created localized noise generators throughout the OVOV planning area. Therefore, the noise environment varies greatly depending on location. The subjectivity associated with acceptable noise levels has created lifestyle environments that are exemplified by a variety of desirable neighborhoods. N-1 DRAFT — May, 2011 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan The OVOV General Plan update acknowledges the evolution of neighborhoods within the planning area by encouraging the concentration of noise generating uses and minimizing the sprawl of these uses throughout the community landscape. The Land Use Element includes the Mixed Use (MX) designation that offer a diverse range of complementary land uses, in appropriate locations throughout the planning area that are served by public transit and in proximity to supportive uses and services. Fulfillment of mixed use development creates a localization of noise generators concentrating impacts into those portions of the planning area where resulting noise levels are most appropriate thus facilitating the goals and objectives identified within the Noise Element. B. Purpose and Intent of the Noise Element Noise is often defined as unwanted or undesired sound. Excessive noise levels are not only a potential annoyance but can constitute a health threat, potentially resulting in temporary or permanent hearing loss and mental distress. Physical health, psychological well-being, social cohesion, property values, and economic productivity can all be affected by excessive amounts of noise. The noise environment is an integral component of the quality of life for Santa Clarita Valley residents. The Noise Element of the General Plan is a comprehensive program for including noise management in the planning process, providing a tool for planners to use in achieving and maintaining land uses that are compatible with existing and future environmental noise levels. The Noise Element identifies current noise conditions within the planning area, and projects future noise impacts resulting from continued growth allowed by the Land Use Element. The element identifies noise -sensitive land uses and noise sources, and defines areas of noise impact for the purpose of developing programs to ensure that residents in the Santa Clarita Valley will be protected from excessive noise intrusion. As development proposals are reviewed in the future, the City and County will evaluate each proposal with respect to the Noise Element to ensure that noise impacts are reduced through planning and project design. Through implementation of the policies and programs of the Noise Element, current and future adverse noise impacts will be reduced or avoided in order to protect the general health, safety, and welfare of the community. C. Background The issues in the Noise Element include those set forth in California Government Code Section 65302(f), which requires that the Noise Element of the General Plan "identify and appraise noise problems in the community." Noise elements are required to address noise generated from highways and freeways, arterials and major streets, rail operations and transit, aviation and airports, industrial plants, and other stationary noise sources. Noise contours must be shown for all these sources, and the noise contours are to be used as a guide for establishing a pattern of land uses that minimizes the exposure of residents to excessive noise. The California Office of Planning and Research has developed guidelines to assist local agencies in the development of a noise element. This Noise Element has been prepared in conformance with the State's General Plan Guidelines and Government Code requirements. The Element quantifies the community noise environment in terms of noise exposure contours for both near and long-term levels of growth and traffic activity. DRAFT — May, 2011 N-2 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise The Noise Element is directly related to the Land Use and Circulation Elements, because traffic on highways and arterial roadways has been identified as a major source of noise that has the potential to affect sensitive land uses. Within the context of a noise analysis, sensitive land uses are those in which persons occupying the use are particularly sensitive to the effects of noise, including housing, schools, medical facilities, libraries, social care facilities, and similar facilities. The Noise Element contains policies that are intended to protect sensitive land uses from noise that exceeds recommended levels. Analysis of noise from mobile sources, including traffic on streets and highways, airport activity, and rail operations, has been completed for the Noise Element based on projected traffic volumes identified in the Circulation Element. The Noise Element is consistent with policies of the Safety Element and Housing Element because it contains policies and guidelines designed to protect residents from noise exceeding recommended levels. The Noise Element is also consistent with the Conservation and Open Space Element and Economic Development Element, because policies in the Noise Element address noise compatibility between sensitive receptors adjacent to parks, sports and recreation uses, and entertainment centers. The City of Santa Clarita adopted a Noise Element as part of the first comprehensive General Plan on June 25, 1991, and subsequently amended the Noise Element on May 23, 2000. The 2000 Noise Element contained guidelines for acceptable noise levels in residential, commercial, and industrial areas, along with goals and policies designed to protect residents from excessive noise levels. The City has also adopted provisions in the Municipal Code establishing noise standards for various uses and circumstances. Chapter 11.40 of the City's Municipal Code contains restrictions on "noisy street hawking and advertising." Chapter 11.44 (the City's Noise Ordinance) establishes noise limits for residential, commercial and manufacturing zones during daytime and nighttime hours, and addresses noise from machinery, construction, and amplification equipment. The stated purpose of this code section is, in part, "to prohibit unnecessary, excessive and annoying noises from all sources," and the Ordinance contains provisions for enforcement and violations. The Board of Supervisors adopted the first Noise Element for Los Angeles County in 1974. The County also regulates noise in Chapter 12.08 of the County Code, which sets forth acceptable exterior noise levels for noise sensitive areas and for residential, commercial, and industrial uses within the County's jurisdiction. The County's first noise control ordinance was adopted in 1977. In 2001, the County amended Title 13 of the County Code to prohibit loud, unnecessary and unusual noise that disturbs the peace or quiet of any neighborhood. In addition to these Countywide provisions, local communities throughout the County may address local noise concerns in their individual Area, Community or Neighborhood plans. Within unincorporated portions of the Santa Clarita Valley, noise policies will be adopted through the Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan, developed in conjunction with the One Valley One Vision planning effort by the City of Santa Clarita and the County of Los Angeles. This Noise Element update was prepared in conjunction with a noise analysis and technical report prepared by Mestre Greve Associates, a noise consultant retained to assist with the element. Their final report, entitled One Valley One Vision Noise Element of the General Plan (Technical Appendix), was used as the primary reference and is included as an appendix to the Element. This Technical Appendix contains detailed information on the methodology, analysis, and sources of information referenced in the Noise Element. N-3 DRAFT — May, 2011 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan D. Fundamental Concepts for Noise Analysis This section of the Noise Element presents background information on the characteristics of noise, in order to provide an understanding of how noise levels are measured for planning purposes. Sound Level and Freauenc Sound is produced when an action causes air pressure to vibrate in all directions around the source, similar to waves produced in a pond when a stone is thrown into the water. When people hear sounds, they are actually detecting the changes in air pressure on their eardrums. Sound can be described technically in terms of the sound pressure (amplitude) and frequency (similar to pitch). Sound pressure is a direct measure of the magnitude of a sound without consideration for other factors that may influence its perception. The range of sound pressures that occur in the environment is so large that it is convenient to express these pressures as sound pressure levels on a logarithmic scale, which compresses the wide range of sound pressures to a more usable range of numbers. The standard unit of measurement of sound is the decibel (dB), which describes the pressure of a sound relative to a reference pressure. The frequency (pitch) of a sound is expressed as Hertz (Hz), or cycles per second. The normal audible frequency for young adults is 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz.' Community noise, including aircraft and motor vehicles, typically ranges between 50 Hz and 5,000 Hz. The human ear is not equally sensitive to all frequencies, with some frequencies judged to be louder for a given signal than others. As a result of this, various methods of frequency weighting have been developed. The most common weighting is the A -weighted noise curve (dBA). The A -weighted decibel scale (dBA) performs this compensation by discriminating against frequencies in a manner approximating the sensitivity of the human ear. In the A -weighted decibel, everyday sounds normally range from 30 dBA (very quiet) to 100 dBA (very loud). Most community noise analyses are based upon the A -weighted decibel scale. Examples of various sound environments, expressed in dBA, are presented in Exhibit N-1. Propagation of Noise Outdoor sound levels decrease as the distance from the source increases, and as a result of wave divergence, atmospheric absorption, and ground attenuation. Sound radiating from a source in a homogeneous and undisturbed manner travels in spherical waves. As the sound wave travels away from the source, the sound energy is dispersed over a greater area, decreasing the sound power of the wave. Spherical spreading of the sound wave reduces the noise level at a rate of 6 dB per doubling of the distance. Atmospheric absorption also influences the sound levels received by the observer. The greater the distance traveled, the greater the influence of the atmosphere and the resultant fluctuations in sound. Atmospheric absorption becomes important at distances of greater than 1,000 feet. The degree of absorption varies depending on the frequency of the sound as well as the humidity and temperature of the air. For example, atmospheric absorption is lowest (i.e., sound carries farther) at high humidity and high temperatures. Turbulence and gradients of wind, Young adults are considered a good baseline population for measuring normal hearing, because hearing is typically at its best within this group and deteriorates with age. DRAFT — May, 2011 N-4 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise temperature, and humidity also play a role in determining the degree of sound attenuation. Certain conditions, such as air temperature inversions, can channel or focus the sound waves, resulting in higher noise levels than would result from simple spherical spreading. Absorption effects in the atmosphere vary with frequency, with higher frequencies more readily absorbed than lower frequencies. Over large distances, the lower frequencies become the dominant sound as the higher frequencies are attenuated. More information on atmospheric conditions affecting the noise environment is included the Technical Appendix. However, for purposes of land use planning based on consideration of the effects of continuous noise sources, local weather conditions are typically not a factor in land use decisions because they are changeable and intermittent. N-5 DRAFT — May, 2011 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan Exhibit N-1: Typical Sound Levels in A -Weighted Decibels 0 dBA Outdoor Indoor dweshold of hearwg lO dHA U 20 C�i I ,-i '1 (20 dBA) Mbspwkiq at 5 feet (20 dBA) 40 60 gtict %,iftnt+al aF4a (40 dBA) Q) refrigerator 150 dBA) alr candltionerat 100 feet (60 dB,A) sewrig machine f 60 dBA,J normal corhnmsattexs (60 W 65 dBA) dislrNasher (55-70 dBA) ca• a- "2'5 Fees .at 65 rnph �77 dRA) INmg morn rousle nr TV 0.-+75 dBA) diesel truck at 50 Beet at 40 mph (84 a8A oi?prba+ a Mpnt8l (80 JBA) peel" airtiane flyrovff at 1000 f t (815 dBA) rin�in� We0koft 00 dBA) mouxcycle at 25 feee f90 d8A) w2cuwn deaner (ISO-85 dBA) Nmvnome (9(> dBA) showed C Vwsmtion (K d9Ak bacLwe as 5-3 feet RS-9S dBA) sreewrrnohils (10€1 dBA) 016t d�m at 50 feet (9C-705 dBA) ev Kyn i110 d9Aj baby ming on shoulder (110 d1BA) rack cwwt (1 10 dBA) loaf blower f f 10 d&A) 1�0 ;;iirRU1-lanbe� �& elS (1 ZG dBA) stock rar rages (130 dBA) l atk*karr Mer 0 30 dBA) 1 40 _ate „.q. F. 7I.,H rJ-YII—M,—h.—M fix rr•5+ M 1FaFsfi rw. , WGuh'IF. EdlM t�CYrl F#rn-19n I�a.�i . by 14.nlrr•G rcr f�uoad.■ DRAFT — May, 2011 N-6 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise Duration of Sound Annoyance from a noise event increases with increased duration of the noise event; in general, the longer the noise event lasts, the more annoying it is. The "effective duration" of a sound is the time between when a sound rises above the background sound level until it drops back below the background level. Psycho -acoustic studies have determined the relationship between duration and annoyance, and the amount that a sound must be reduced in order to be judged equally annoying for an increased duration. Duration is an important factor in describing sound in a community setting. The relationship between duration and noise level is the basis of the equivalent energy principal of sound exposure. Reducing the acoustic energy of a sound by one half results in a 3 dB reduction. Doubling the duration of the sound increases the total energy of the event by 3 dB. This equivalent energy principal is based on the premise that the potential for a noise to impact a person is dependent on the total acoustical energy content of the noise. Defined in subsequent sections of this element, noise metrics such as CNEL, DNL, LEQ and SENEL are all based on the equal energy principle. Change in Noise The concept of change in ambient sound levels can be understood with an explanation of the receptor's reaction to sound. The human ear is a far better detector of relative differences in sound levels than absolute values of levels. Under controlled laboratory conditions, listening to a steady unwavering pure tone sound that can be changed to slightly different sound levels, a person can just barely detect a sound level change of approximately one decibel for sounds in the mid -frequency region. When ordinary noises are heard, a young healthy ear can detect changes of two to three decibels. A five -decibel change is readily noticeable, while a 10 decibel change is judged by most people as a doubling or a halving of the loudness of the sound. It is typical in environmental documents to consider a 3 dB change as potentially discernable. Masking Effect The tendency for one sound to limit a listener from hearing another sound is known as the masking effect. The presence of one sound effectively raises the threshold of audibility for the second sound. For a signal to be heard, it must exceed the threshold of hearing for that particular individual and exceed the masking threshold for the background noise. The masking characteristics of sound depend on many factors, including the spectral (frequency) characteristics of the two sounds, the sound pressure levels, and the relative start time of the sounds. Masking effect is greatest when the frequencies of the two sounds are similar or when low frequency sounds mask higher frequency sounds. High frequency sounds do not easily mask low frequency sounds. Factors Influencing Human Response to Sound Many factors influence sound perception and annoyance. These factors include not only physical characteristics of the sound, but also secondary influences such as sociological and external factors. Molino, in the Handbook of Noise Control, describes human response to sound in terms of both acoustic and non -acoustic factors. These factors are summarized in Table N-1. N-7 DRAFT — May, 2011 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan Table N-1: Factors Affecting Human Response to Noise Primary Acoustic Factors • Sound level • Frequency • Duration Secondary Acoustic Factors Spectral complexity • Fluctuations in sound level • Fluctuations in frequency • Rise -time of the noise • Localization of noise source Non -Acoustic Factors Physiology • Adaptation and past experience • How the listener's activity affects annoyance • Predictability of when a noise will occur • Whether the noise is necessary • Individual differences and personality Source: C. Harris, 1979 Sound rating scales are developed in reaction to the factors affecting human response to sound. Nearly all of these factors are relevant in describing how sounds are perceived in the community. Many non -acoustic parameters play a prominent role in affecting individual response to noise. Background sound, an additional acoustic factor not specifically listed, is also important in describing sound in rural settings. Researchers have identified the effects of personal and situational variables on noise annoyance, and have identified a clear association of reported annoyance and various other individual perceptions or beliefs. Thus, it is important to recognize that non -acoustic factors as well as acoustic factors contribute to human response to noise. Sound Rating Scales The description, analysis, and reporting of community sound levels is made difficult by the complexity of human response to sound, and the large number of sound -rating scales and metrics developed to describe acoustic effects. Various rating scales have been developed to approximate the human subjective assessment to the "loudness" or "noisiness" of a sound. Noise metrics have also been developed to account for additional parameters such as duration of sound, and the cumulative effect of multiple noise events. Noise metrics are categorized as single event metrics and cumulative metrics. Single event metrics describe the noise from individual events, such as one aircraft flyover. Cumulative metrics describe the noise in terms of the total noise exposure throughout the day. Noise metrics used in this study are described below. DRAFT — May, 2011 N-8 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise Single Event Metrics Frequency Weighted Metrics (dBA). In order to simplify the measurement and computation of sound loudness levels, frequency weighted networks have obtained wide acceptance. The A -weighting (dBA) scale has become the most prominent of these scales and is widely used in community noise analysis. Its advantages are that it has shown good correlation with community response and is easily measured. The metrics used in the Noise Element are all based on the dBA scale. Maximum Noise Level or Lmax is the highest noise level reached during a noise event. For example, as an aircraft approaches, the sound of the aircraft begins to rise above ambient noise levels. The closer the aircraft gets the louder it is, until the aircraft is at its closest point directly overhead. Then, as the aircraft passes, the noise level decreases until the sound level again settles to ambient levels. Such a history of a flyover is plotted at the top of Exhibit N-2. It is this metric to which people generally instantaneously respond when an aircraft flyover or a loud vehicle like a truck or motorcycle passes by. Single Event Noise Exposure Level (SENEL) or Sound Exposure Level (SEL) is computed from dBA sound levels, and is used to quantify the total noise associated with an event such as an aircraft overflight or a train pass -by. Referring again to the top of Exhibit N-2, the shaded area, or the area within 10 dB of the maximum noise level, is the area from which the SENEL is computed. The SENEL value is the integration of all the acoustic energy contained within the event. Speech and sleep interference research can be assessed relative to SENEL data. The SENEL metric takes into account the maximum noise level of the event and the duration of the event. Single event metrics are a convenient method for describing noise from individual aircraft events. This metric is useful in that airport noise models contain aircraft noise curve data based upon the SENEL metric. In addition, cumulative noise metrics such as LEQ, CNEL and DNL can be computed from SENEL data. Cumulative Metrics Cumulative noise metrics assess community response to noise by including the loudness of the noise, the duration of the noise, the total number of noise events, and the time of day these events occur into one single number rating scale. Equivalent Noise Level (Leq) is the sound level corresponding to a steady-state A - weighted sound level containing the same total energy as several SEL events during a given sample period. Leq is the "energy" average noise level during the time period of the sample. It is based on the observation that the potential for noise annoyance is dependent on the total acoustical energy content of the noise. This is graphically illustrated in the middle graph of Exhibit N-2. Leq can be measured for any time period, but is typically measured for 15 minutes, 1 hour or 24-hours. Leq for a one -hour period is used by the Federal Highway Administration for assessing highway noise impacts. Leq for one hour is called Hourly Noise Level (HNL) in the California Airport Noise Regulations and is used to develop Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) values for aircraft operations. N-9 DRAFT — May, 2011 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan Exhibit N-2: Single and Cumulative Noise Metric Definitions .Single Event Noise - ,e Hour E _I e. L*v€-I rLEQM ` J'iL7 I L }IiC Ji'1J7 !emu IrtAl �-aniTr Jt,� x�r. �7oGk �i•�a�fr �u-r ee� IFNCrd S+F.NdeV i'/wi ., M AN *J. 24 Hour Naise=> Hourly NOi E 24- Pouf I 'I a Love] (,CW : 0 �f ee,d f � dsh GrytJb? Jn � 1r�J+�1�RJ•�q� I fl k s IU II 1! 1 A31 17ree Cv1• J+I•Ilnr Tlne Rrcid Source: Mestre Greve Associates, 1998 IIIIII�I a 3 4 t IU f1 I, R Ff - I r DRAFT — May, 2011 N-10 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise Community Noise Equivalent Level, or CNEL is a 24-hour, time -weighted energy average noise level based on the A -weighted decibel. It is a measure of the overall noise experienced during an entire day. The term "time -weighted" refers to the penalties attached to noise events occurring during certain sensitive time periods. In the CNEL scale, noise occurring between the hours of 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. is penalized by approximately 5 dB. This penalty accounts for the greater potential for noise to cause communication interference during these hours, as well as typically lower ambient noise levels during these hours. Noise that takes place during the night (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) is penalized by 10 dB. This penalty was selected to attempt to account for the higher sensitivity to noise in the nighttime, and the expected further decrease in background noise levels that typically occur in the nighttime. CNEL is graphically illustrated at the bottom of Exhibit N-2. Examples of various noise environments in terms of CNEL are presented in Exhibit N-3. The State's General Plan Guidelines specify the use of CNEL or Ldn by local planning agencies in preparation of the General Plan Noise Element for purposes of land use compatibility planning. This element uses CNEL for that purpose. The Daily Noise Level (DNL) index is very similar to CNEL, but does not include the evening (7 p.m. to 10 p.m.) penalty that is included in CNEL. It does include the nighttime (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) penalty. Typically, DNL is about 1 dB lower than CNEL, although the difference may be greater if there is an abnormal concentration of noise events in the 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. time period. DNL is specified for use in all states except California. L(%), Lmax and Lmin are statistical methods of describing noise which accounts for variance in noise levels throughout a given measurement period. L(%) is a way of expressing the noise level exceeded for a percentage of time in a given measurement period. For example, since five minutes is 25% of 20 minutes, L(25) is the noise level that is equal to or exceeded for five minutes in a 20-minute measurement period. It is L(%) that is used for most Noise Ordinance standards. Lmax represents the loudest noise level that is measured. The Lmax only occurs for a fraction of a second with all the other noise less than the Lmax level. Lmin represents the quietest noise level during a noise measurement. All other noise during the measurement period is louder than the Lmin. E. Health Effects of Noise Noise, often described as unwanted sound, is known to have several adverse effects on humans. From these known adverse effects of noise, criteria have been established to help protect the public health and safety and prevent disruption of certain human activities. These criteria are based on effects of noise on people such as hearing loss (not a factor with typical community noise), communication interference, sleep interference, physiological responses, and annoyance. Each of these potential noise impacts on people is briefly discussed below. N-11 DRAFT — May, 2011 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan Exhibit N-3: Examples of Typical Outdoor CNEL Levels Typical Outdoor Location Apartnient Neat to Fmmny 3.4 MI c Fiom Touchdowm at M ajor Airport Du%n(o%q,tt With :Soot Construction Activity Urban High DEty Apti rlmcnl. —7t- 'd4 E_Irtiun Row Howwkg on Major A.vMle Old Urban Re-,'Ldcn6'at Arcu :!lll-- Wooded Residential Agricu ltunaJ Crop Land 'Rural Rcsidcni is i Wildcrness Arnbicnl DRAFT — May, 2011 N-12 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise Hearing Loss Hearing loss is generally not a concern in community noise problems, even very near a major airport or a major freeway. The potential for noise induced hearing loss is more commonly associated with occupational noise exposures in heavy industry, very noisy work environments with long term exposure, or certain very loud recreational activities such as target shooting, motorcycle or car racing. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) identifies a noise exposure limit of 90 dBA for eight hours per day to protect workers from hearing loss (higher limits are allowed for shorter duration exposures). Noise levels in neighborhoods, even in very noisy neighborhoods, are not sufficiently loud to cause hearing loss. Communication Interference Communication interference is one of the primary concerns in environmental noise problems, and includes speech interference and interference with activities such as watching television. Normal conversational speech is in the range of 60 to 65 dBA, and any noise in this range or louder may interfere with speech. There are various methods of describing speech interference as a function of distance between speaker and listener and voice level. Sleep Interference Sleep interference is a major noise concern in noise assessment and is most critical during nighttime hours. Sleep disturbance is one of the major causes of annoyance due to community noise. Noise can make it difficult to fall asleep, create momentary disturbances of natural sleep patterns by causing shifts from deep to lighter stages, and cause awakening. Noise may even cause awakening that a person may not be able to recall. Extensive research has been conducted on the effect of noise on sleep disturbance, with varying results. Recommended values for desired sound levels in residential bedroom space range from 25 to 45 dBA, with 35 to 40 dBA being the norm. In 1981, the National Association of Noise Control Officials published data on the probability of sleep disturbance with various single event noise levels. Based on laboratory experiments conducted in the 1970s, this data indicated that noise exposure from a 75 dBA interior noise level event will cause noise -induced awakening in 30 percent of the cases. More information on these studies is contained in the Technical Appendix. Physiological Responses to Noise Physiological responses are those measurable effects of noise on people that are realized as changes in pulse rate, blood pressure, and other vital signs. While such effects can be induced and observed, the extent to which these physiological responses cause harm or are a sign of harm is unknown. Generally, physiological responses are a reaction to a loud short-term noise such as a rifle shot or a very loud jet over flight. N-13 DRAFT — May, 2011 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan Health effects from noise have been studied around the world for over thirty years. Scientists have attempted to determine whether high noise levels can adversely affect human health in ways other than auditory damage, which is well documented. These research efforts have covered a broad range of potential impacts, from cardiovascular response to fetal weight and mortality. While a relationship between noise and health effects seems plausible, it has yet to be conclusively demonstrated by multiple scientific studies. Health effects from noise may also be associated with a wide variety of other environmental stressors. Isolating the effects of aircraft noise alone as a source of long-term physiological change has proved to be difficult in studies completed to date. More information on these studies is contained in the Technical Appendix. Annoyance Annoyance is the most difficult of all noise responses to describe. Annoyance is a very individual characteristic and can vary widely from person to person. Noise that one person considers tolerable can be unbearable to another of equal hearing capability. The level of annoyance depends both on the characteristics of the noise (including loudness, frequency, time, and duration), and how much activity interference (such as speech interference and sleep interference) results from the noise. However, the level of annoyance is also a function of the attitude of the receiver. Personal sensitivity to noise varies widely. It has been estimated that two to 10 percent of the population is highly susceptible to annoyance from any noise not of their own making, while approximately 20 percent are unaffected by noise. Attitudes may also be affected by the relationship between the person affected and the source of noise, and whether attempts have been made to abate the noise. Various studies have correlated annoyance levels to CNEL levels, including a well-known analysis developed by Theodore Schultz. Schultz developed a curve that estimates the percent of a populace that can be expected to be annoyed by various DNL (CNEL in California) values for residential land use with outdoor activity areas. At 65 dB DNL, the Schultz curve predicts approximately 14% of the exposed population reporting themselves to be "highly annoyed." At 60 dB DNL this decreases to approximately 8% of the population. However, the Schultz curve and recent updates include data showing that some communities report much higher percentages of population highly annoyed at these noise exposure levels. A 1981 study in Orange County of communities near John Wayne Airport found that populations in some areas were approximately 5 dB CNEL more sensitive to noise than the average population predicted by the Schultz curve. While the precise reasons for this increased noise sensitivity were not identified, it is possible that non -acoustic factors, including the socio- economic status of the surveyed population, may have played a role in increasing the sensitivity of these communities during the period of the survey. Also, it should be noted that annoyance levels have never been correlated statistically to single event noise exposure levels in airport related studies. More information on these studies is contained in the Technical Appendix. School Room Effects Interference with classroom activities and learning from aircraft noise is an important consideration, and the subject of much recent research. Studies from around the world indicate that noise from vehicle traffic, railroads, and aircraft operations can have adverse effects on reading ability, concentration, motivation, and long term learning retention among students who DRAFT — May, 2011 N-14 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise are subjected to such noise 2. A complicating factor in this research is the extent of background noise from within the classroom itself. The studies that indicated the most adverse effects examined cumulative noise levels equivalent to 65 CNEL or higher, and single event maximum noise levels ranging from 85 to 95 dBA. In other studies, the level of noise was unstated or ambiguous. According to these studies, a variety of adverse school room effects can be expected from interior noise levels equal to or exceeding 65 CNEL and or 85 dBA SEL. Some interference with classroom activities can be expected with noise events that interfere with speech. As discussed in other sections of this element, speech interference begins at 65 dBA, which is the level of normal conversation. Typical building design and construction materials attenuate outdoor noise by 20 dBA with windows closed, and 12 dBA with windows open. Thus, some interference of classroom activities can be expected at outdoor levels of 77 to 85 dBA. F. Analysis of Existing and Future Noise Environment in the Planning Area The Noise Element of the City of Santa Clarita General Plan, adopted in May 2000, identified roadways as the primary source of noise in the City. While traffic noise is still the major noise source in the City, other sources of noise have also become a concern. The City of Santa Clarita and County of Los Angeles retained a noise consultant, Mestre Greve Associates, to conduct a noise study for the One Valley One Vision planning effort. This study evaluated existing noise conditions throughout the planning area, and projected future noise levels based upon growth and traffic projections developed through the OVOV planning effort. This section of the element describes existing sources of noise in the Santa Clarita Valley, and the methodology used to analyze noise levels. Methodology Twenty sites in the OVOV planning area were selected for measurement of the existing noise environment. A review of noise complaints, discussions with City and County staff, and identification of major noise sources in the community provided the initial basis for development of the community noise survey. The measurement locations were selected on the basis of proximity to major noise sources and noise sensitivity of the land use. The measurement locations are depicted in Exhibit N-4. Noise measurements were made of the short-term Leq values. These measurements provide a short `snapshot' view of the noise environment. The noise measurements were made at an average human receptor height of about five feet above the ground. Measurements were made on August 7 and 8, 2007. The measurements were made with a Bruel & Kjaer Type 2236 Sound Level Meter, and calibrated every few hours. These noise measurement systems meet the American National Standards Institute "Type 1" specifications, which is the most accurate for community noise measurements. The meter and calibrator have current certification traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Z For more information, see "Effects of Aircraft Noise: Research Update on Selected Topics," by Vincent Mestre, published by the Transportation Research Board of the National Academies, 2008. N-15 DRAFT — May, 2011 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan Results The results of the noise measurements for existing conditions are shown in Exhibit N-5a, N-5b, and N-5c. These figures also depict the date and time of the measurement. The cause of the loudest event is identified and the most predominant noise source(s) are identified. The quantities measured were the Equivalent Noise Level (Leq), the maximum noise level (Lmax) and the minimum noise levels (Lmin). DRAFT — May, 2011 N-16 7 0 04 LL ------------- 00 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan When examining the noise data shown in Exhibit N-5, it is important to note that this data is intended to identify noise levels over a broad range of the study area; it is not an assessment of impacts at these sites. The noise levels measured cover a wide range of noise exposure throughout the planning area. In almost all cases, the major sources of noise were motor vehicles. The quietest environment was in a residential area in the foothills, where noise levels were often below 50 dBA. The loudest events were generated by buses and trucks, and these events would push the noise levels into the mid 80 dBA range. In general, aircraft noise, industrial noise, and commercial noise sources did not appear to contribute significantly to the noise levels measured. A detailed discussion of the noise measurements at each of the 20 sites is presented in the Noise Study prepared by Mestre Greve Associates in 2008, attached as the Technical Appendix. Noise Contour Maps Noise contour maps of the planning area were prepared to show both existing and anticipated future noise levels. The contour map of existing noise levels was based on field measurements described above. Based on this data, the consultant concluded that the noise environment in the Santa Clarita Valley is attributable primarily to roadways, which include both surface streets and freeways. The Union Pacific Railroad, which runs from the southern portion of the City to the center of the City and then directly to the east, is also a major noise source. The Agua Dulce Airport is located in the study area; however, sporadic airplane or helicopter operations that occur across the OVOV study area were not determined to be loud enough and consistent enough to be substantial noise generators. The noise contours for the planning area are presented in Exhibit N-6 for existing conditions as of August, 2007, and in Exhibit N-7 for build -out conditions projected for the City's General Plan and the County's Area Plan.. The existing contours are based on the existing conditions of traffic volumes and other sources of noise in the community derived from field measurements. The future contours represent a year 2030 scenario, based on traffic volumes estimated by a traffic study performed by Austin Foust, a traffic consultant. The traffic noise contours, including the average daily traffic, are also presented in a tabular form in the Appendix to the Noise Element. DRAFT — May, 2011 N-18 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan Exhibit N-5: Noise Measurement Results, August 2007 Gmphle Slmmery of Shart-Terrrm Ambelm Noise Mazlsurrnerlt Flesults 51!m LLk W. L,v OYi Tiliii Lila LIN &iUCP:i Limil LIE•d.1 1 rig 10 1 Eric :5r ru'iir Li' M 9 45 a m 111M I oam'i a 2 PU J Coil%4m CI° e. - 4a P iit ""I •Ib'h IP 1�, � 3 Oartii�f l &ifYy dff il$ 2i: PAL Plaij;.r8lri' •iiYl Ea �iRi * ►-'a'+' 41iCYir �Lli ELllai'" l l vF:- 5 Pirq norio Ly&,&AbA eel 11 kafn PMdw ,"d bLm M" aja a7 MLl` 0OW IIerr. 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BpOy IQ.X%61. cm 'Affl-M rut: -_ D_hw 9rA nkc. 11 �+ 111'• ""I.1ce a 1fY1L 'Ah Mon p.'_n F,q vy a'1 a l+ fw a 9nLkw W gi i rj li i•lr Akliril 16 Fia wd ikAjei Cmp:)n eo 444.pm K Wkwit;Mw FIA raddoita — tram Caw xPu";,4,rj'nFie iinC1r --- --- --- --- --- gdwtV7p 1 wa gamin %v W Fu WA 22 p m irk 11 Iadrt alter 1a411101*Ii 1 totln woo — — — — — — — — — ��I i irupkrl•L14 1-� Ea °A Li1T8Mtn F1 e$ _ 52 p rn 1111111011Y kudm: man 10 12 am n --- --- --- --- 1 rig 10 20 End tsl Flatr�mri& Ci W E71D p m 'rota 30 AC r! no ."C• w] 99 m :�J 1 d C I ea e" C a' 10 hkiLF Frond® I %ii`& 8raw Aomdrrdr DRAFT —September, 2010 N-18 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan The noise contours for arterial roadways and highways were generated using a mathematical model developed by the Federal Highway Administration ("Traffic Noise Model," Version 2.5, April 14, 2004). The Traffic Noise Model (TNM) uses traffic volume, vehicle mix, average vehicle speed, roadway geometry, and sound propagation path characteristics to predict hourly A -weighted Leq values adjacent to a road. Vehicle mix is reported in terms of the number of automobiles, medium trucks, and heavy trucks. The truck categories are defined in the TNM model by number of axles and weight. In order to compute a CNEL value for roadways, the hourly data for a 24-hour period are used according to the CNEL formula. Vehicle distribution over the 24 hour day must be known, including the percent of vehicles in the daytime period (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.), evening period (7 p.m. to 10 p.m.), and night period (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.). The mix of automobiles, medium trucks and heavy trucks has an effect on noise levels. The assumption used to model noise is based on known traffic mix data. For arterial roadways, the vehicle mix data are obtained from mix data collected by the County of Orange during extensive surveys of 53 intersections within the County. This survey is the most comprehensive conducted in Southern California, and is considered representative for the vast majority of arterial highways throughout Southern California. Caltrans conducts periodic traffic counts on freeways and publishes them on their website (www.dot.ca.gov/hq/traffops/saferesr/trafdata/). The various truck percentages reported by Caltrans were used for the projections on Interstate 5, State Route 14 and StateRoute 126. The traffic mix data used for the Noise Element are contained in the Noise Study prepared for the project by Mestre Greve Associates, included as the Technical Appendix. The Union Pacific Railroad line handles two types of trains in the Santa Clarita Valley, Metrolink commuter rail and freight. In terms of rail noise, freight is the more dominant noise source. Published train schedules were consulted in 2008 and it was determined that 24 Metrolink trains run through the Santa Clarita Valley each day. No precise numbers of daily freight train operations could be provided; however, it was estimated that up to five freight trains pass through the planning area each day. According to the Multi -County Goods Movement Action Plan prepared for Los Angeles County in April 2008, the number of freight trains expected to use the Union Pacific rail line from Los Angeles through the Santa Clarita Valley by 2025 ranges from 27-49 trains per day. Based on this information, the model included 48 freight trains per day. Metro, which operates the Metrolink system, has also prepared an updated draft 2008 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) that shows proposed rail facilities and increased operations throughout its service area. The list of projects for North Los Angeles County in the LRTP includes adding reverse commute service on the Antelope Valley line, expanding capacity on existing trains, and adding four Metrolink trains from the Santa Clarita Valley to Los Angeles. These two documents contain the most recent available data on existing and future planned rail operations in the Santa Clarita Valley, and were used to generate the existing and projected train noise contours shown on Exhibits N-6 and N-7. Noise contours on the contour map exhibits represent lines of equal noise exposure, just as the contour lines on a topographic map show lines of equal elevation. The contours shown on the map are for the 60, 65 and 70 dB CNEL noise levels. These noise contour maps can be used as a guide for land use planning decisions. The 60 CNEL contour defines the Noise Referral Zone. This is the noise level for which noise considerations should be included when making land use policy decisions. DRAFT — May, 2011 N-20 .0 —rI I Loo 0 011 P4 m 0 cu 1 irtm - -------------- 0 fill Ale �D I City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise The contours presented in this report are a graphic representation of the existing and future projected noise environment. These distances to contour values are also shown in tabulated format in the Noise Element, Technical Appendix.. However, it should be understood when consulting these maps and tables that topography and intervening buildings or barriers have a very complex effect on the propagation of noise, because barriers deflect sound waves. The effect of topography and building placement on specific development sites was not considered when preparing the noise contour maps for the entire planning area; therefore, the contours present a worst -case projection of existing and future noise levels, and should be considered in conjunction with local conditions when evaluating specific development plans. Proiected Noise Impacts from City General Plan and County Area Plan Buildout Because of continued growth and development allowed by the City General Plan and County Area Plan, traffic levels will change throughout the planning area in future years, and the resulting noise levels will also undergo a corresponding change. In order to evaluate the future estimated noise levels, a comparison was made between the existing noise levels and future noise levels within the OVOV planning area (i.e., cumulative noise increase), based on the anticipated growth permitted by the City General Plan and County Area Plan update. Table N-2 shows the expected incremental traffic noise level increases on the primary arterial roadways that were analyzed in the OVOV traffic study. The traffic study divided up the arterial roadway network into 318 roadway links; the roadway segment numbers on Table N-2 correspond to the segment number identified by the traffic engineer. However, only those arterial roadway links on which discernable changes in noise levels are projected are included on Table N-2; roadway links with negligible change in noise levels are not listed. Also, since the traffic study did not include local and collector streets, these streets were not included in the noise model. Such streets carry substantially less traffic, with lower speed limits, than arterial streets, which reduces the noise generated. A significance threshold of five (5) dB is often used to evaluate a change in environmental noise that occurs slowly over a long period of time. A total of 29 roadway links were identified that showed a change in noise level of 5 dB or more between the existing conditions and future build -out of the City General Plan and County Area Plan. The noise analysis also compared projected future noise levels under the OVOV planning effort with the noise levels anticipated to be generated under build -out of the City General Plan and County Area Plan that were in effect prior to the Plans updated through the OVOV effort. Table N-2 shows roadway links that will experience an increase of one (1) dB with the updated City General Plan and County Area Plan, as compared to the previously adopted City General Plan and County Area Plan. As shown by the minus signs in the fourth column of Table N-2, many roadway segments will experience decreased noise impacts under the updated City General Plan and County Area Plan, as compared with the previously adopted City General Plan and County Area Plan. The land uses listed in the fifth column of Table N-2 were based on observations from aerial photographs and on -site visits. It should be noted that the land use listed on the table may not be the same as the zoning designation, as these are generalized land use categories rather than Area Plan designations or zones. The Santa Clarita Valley will experience population growth in upcoming years and, as a result, noise levels will increase along many roadways. Some of the roadway links bordered by residential uses that will experience much of the noise increase include portions of Pico Canyon Road, Via Princessa, Golden Valley Road, and Lost Canyon Road. However, with N-23 DRAFT — May, 2011 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan development under the updated City General Plan and County Area Plan, the noise levels will go down on more roadways than will go up in comparison to the currently adopted City General Plan and County Area Plan. There are only three roadway links out of the 318 links that in the entire roadway network where the noise levels with the updated City General Plan and County Area Plan increase by one (1) dB or more, in comparison to the previously adopted City General Plan and County Area Plan. For purposes of evaluating environmental noise, a difference of three (3) dB is barely discernable. Only one roadway link, Ridge Route north of Castaic, will experience a noise increase of 3 dB in comparison to the previously adopted City General Plan and County Area Plan. This area is primarily developed and planned for commercial uses, which are not considered to be sensitive to that level of noise increase. Therefore, although the Santa Clarita Valley will experience substantial increases in traffic over existing levels and corresponding increases in traffic noise, the updated City General Plan and County Area Plan will result in slightly lower noise levels for more streets than would otherwise occur under the previously adopted City General Plan and County Area Plan. Even for the residential areas where the noise levels are projected to increase by more than one (1) dB over existing conditions, the Noise Study determined that in most cases residences are currently protected by existing sound walls or are set back far enough from the roadway so that future noise levels generated by build -out under the updated City General Plan and County Area Plan will be consistent with the Noise and Land Use Compatibility Guidelines. Therefore, noise impacts in these areas from City General Plan and County Area Plan build out were determined to be minimal. Noise levels were also projected for the railroad line that passes through the Santa Clarita Valley. Both Metrolink and freight trains utilize the railroad line. In future years both the operations of freight and Metrolink are expected to increase. A moderate increase in the CNEL noise level of 2.4 dB is projected to occur between existing levels and build -out of the City General Plan and County Area Plan. This level of noise increase is expected to occur with build -out under either the previously adopted City General Plan and County Area Plan or the updated City General Plan and County Area Plan. The projected 2.4 dB increase for rail - generated noise is not considered to be a substantial noise increase that would adversely affect community noise levels. DRAFT — May, 2011 N-24 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise Table N-2: Projected Noise Increases Along Roadway Links in CNEL (dB) Based on City General Plan and County Area Plan Buildout Segment No. Roadway Link Cumulative Increase Change Due to OVOV6 Land Use 2 Agua Dulce n/o Davenport 6.4 0.0 Residential 3 A ua Dulce n/o SR-14 6.7 0.0 Open Space 4 A ua Dulce s/o SR-14 4.8 1.8 Open Space 8 Ave Stanford s/o Vanderbilt 5.3 0.8 Commercial 29 Chiquito Cyn n/o SR-126 11.0 -0.3 Open Space 41 Copper Hill e/o Haskell 5.3 -0.2 Residential 43 Davenport e/o Sierra Hwy 4.8 1.8 Commercial 53 Dockweiler w/o Sierra Hwy 6.8 -0.2 Residential 55 Franklin e/o Wolcott Way 9.0 0.0 Open Space 57 Golden Valley s/o Plum Cyn 7.8 0.0 Residential 59 Golden Valley n/o Soledad 5.0 0.0 Commercial/Indust 68 Hasley Cyn w/o Del Valle 6.4 0.7 Open Space 72 Henry Mayo e/o Commerce Center 5.1 -0.3 Residential 77 Lake Hughes e/o Castaic 6.1 -0.7 Mixed 78 Lake Hughes e/o Ridge Route 5.4 -2.3 Commercial 84 Lost Cyn n/o Jakes Way n/a 1.1 Residential 85 Lost Cyn n/o Canyon Park n/a 1.1 Residential 87 Lost Cyn s/o Via Princessa 7.4 -0.4 Residential 98 Magic Mtn w/o The Old Road 7.3 0.1 Open Space 99 Magic Mtn e/o The Old Road 5.0 0.2 Office 105 Magic Mtn e/o Valencia 5.3 0.2 Mixed 128 Newhall Ranch e/o Bouquet Cyn 8.2 0.2 Mixed 143 Pico Cyn w/o Stevenson Ranch 9.9 0.0 Residential 161 Ridge Route n/o Lake Hughes 8.5 -0.1 Mixed 162 Ridge Route n/o Castaic 2.0 3.0 Commercial 172 San Martinez Grande Cyn n/o SR- 126 7.0 -1.5 Open Space 233 Stevenson Ranch n/o Poe -0.7 1.4 Open Space 238 The Old Road n/o Hillcrest 6.4 -0.3 Mixed 254 Ave. Tibbitts s/o Newhall Ranch 5.8 0.0 Commercial 262 Valencia w/o The Old Road 5.8 0.1 Residential 276 Via Princessa e/o Oak Ride 5.7 0.0 Residential 279 Via Princessa w/o Rainbow Glen 11.3 0.7 Residential 280 Via Princessa e/o Rainbow Glen 7.6 0.5 Residential 283 Via Princessa n/o Lost Cyn 6.8 0.2 Residential 290 Wiley Cyn e/o Orchard Village 5.8 0.3 Residential 295 Wolcott n/o SR-126 7.8 0.0 Open Space 4 "Cumulative Increase" refers to projected noise levels over existing conditions based on development allowed by the City General Plan and County Area Plan Update. 6 "Change Due to OVOV" refers to the net increase or decrease in projected noise levels between the City General Plan and County Area Plan in effect prior to OVOV, and the OVOV update. A minus sign in this column indicates that future noise levels are projected to be less under the OVOV Plans than under the previously adopted plans. N-25 DRAFT - May, 2011 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan G. Other Noise Issues in the Planning Area In addition to traffic -generated noise impacts, several other noise -related issues were identified during preparation of the Noise Element, based on discussions with staff. Some of these additional noise issues may be addressed in local planning decisions by the City of Santa Clarita and the County of Los Angeles, as described below. With regard to other noise issues that are outside the authority of local planning agencies, the discussion below is provided for informational purposes only. High -Speed Rail Line A high-speed rail line is being planned by the California High -Speed Rail Authority to connect northern and southern California. The anticipated route of this railway would run from Sacramento to Los Angeles, and would likely traverse the Santa Clarita Valley in the area of the Antelope Valley Freeway (SR-14) corridor. As the planning for this project proceeds, a separate environmental impact report will be required to evaluate potential impacts of the proposed high- speed rail line, including noise. At this time, the precise route of the future high-speed rail line through the planning area is not known, and the type of train and corresponding noise levels have not been determined. Therefore, no substantive planning in regard to future noise impacts from high-speed rail can be addressed in the Noise Element at this time. However, a policy has been included in the Element that calls for the City and County to participate in the review of the high-speed rail plan documents to ensure adequate mitigation of noise and other impacts, if and when the rail project is approved. High Density Residential Development Adiacent to Railroad As part of the OVOV strategy to encourage Transit -Oriented Development (TOD) in the Santa Clarita Valley, higher density residential housing, and mixed -use commercial districts that may contain residential uses, are planned in proximity to portions of the railroad corridor currently used for freight and Metrolink passenger service. Most notably, this will occur in the areas where the railroad parallels Railroad Avenue and along Soledad Canyon Road, especially in the vicinity of the Metrolink Station on Soledad Canyon Road, which is well -suited for future transit - oriented development to occur. The TOD strategy will provide residents with ready access to public transit for commuting to work and service centers that are accessible by Metrolink, thereby decreasing dependence on single -use automobile trips, and reducing vehicle emissions and vehicle -generated noise. DRAFT — September 2010 N-26 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise Developing residential uses along railroad corridors presents special challenges with respect to noise. First, constructing sound walls along railroads is often not feasible because of height restrictions. Sound walls that are constructed may provide some protection for lower residential floors, but provide little or no protection for the upper floors. Secondly, although the CNEL noise scale is the best scale to use for environmental noise, it is not the only measurement to consider when dealing with train events (and, to a similar extent, aircraft noise). Train noise is what is referred to as "single event noise". When a train passes a residence, it generates loud levels of noise for a short period of time, and then there will be no railroad noise for an extended period of time. The CNEL scale accounts for the number of trains, the time of day that they occur, and how loud the trains are; but it can be argued that the annoyance and activity disruption that is generated by the single event of a train is not fully accounted for in such CNEL measurements. For example, if a train passes by and awakens a resident, his or her main focus is on that one train and not on the other factors that go into the CNEL scale calculation. The use of CNEL (or the similar Ldn scale) for noise and land use planning is required by State code. In most instances, the use of the CNEL scale provides the best correlation with how people view the noise environment. One of the actions the City and County can take to address potential annoyance from train noise is to require disclosure to potential buyers and renters of homes near the railroad. This notification would provide information to buyers and renters about the location and type of noise sources in the area, and the fact that there may be loud events generated by these sources. A policy has been included in this Element to address disclosure requirements for residents near the railroad. In many cases, high -density residential and mixed uses developments contain few outdoor private areas where quiet can be anticipated. Generally, dwellings in such developments might be provided with small balcony or patio areas, but there is little expectation that the noise levels for these private outdoor areas will be low. A noise barrier, often made of glass, is the only way to provide noise protection for a small balcony area adjacent to a noise source such as a freeway or railroad. Balcony barriers are often disliked by residents because they create a "closed -in" feeling. In order to address this issue, it is recommended that the design of high - density residential uses include one or more outdoor areas in the complex where peace and quiet can be found. Such an area may be provided in communal courtyards, or a pool area where people can sit and relax. It is important to provide noise protection for these areas. Such common outdoor areas can often be protected through site design, such as by locating buildings or parking structures between noise sources and common open space. A policy has been included in the Element to encourage site designs for multi -family and mixed -use projects that promote the inclusion of common recreational or open space areas that are protected from noise. Mixed -Use Developments that Combine Residential and Non -Residential Uses The City General Plan and County Area Plan Land Use Maps developed through the OVOV planning effort shows several areas that can be developed with mixed uses. In addition, the City of Santa Clarita Unified Development Code allows mixed uses in certain zone districts, with 0 approval of a development plan. The commercial/residential interface that can occur in mixed - use developments presents special challenges in terms of noise mitigation. The primary concern is that some commercial uses may operate through the evening hours and into the nighttime hours. Clubs, theaters, late -night restaurants, and banquet facilities are some examples of commercial uses that could locate in a mixed -use area and generate noise into nighttime hours. Another characteristic of commercial areas is that the tenants in a building often change over time. For example, a bookstore that did not operate at night could be N-27 DRAFT — September 2010 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan replaced by a popular restaurant where operations could extend through the evening and into nighttime hours. Because of changes in use, the noise levels that are reviewed when a development plan is approved may change overtime. For these reasons, it is difficult to properly soundproof residences that are constructed in a mixed -use development. It would be desirable to take some additional action in mixed -use developments so that residents would view the noise environment as favorable. Putting time limits on the commercial uses might be viable in some cases, but it may also deter some commercial uses from locating in or near a mixed -use development. The State requires that buildings be designed to meet a 45 CNEL indoor noise standard for multi -family residences. It would not be possible to set an indoor noise standard more restrictive than the State standard, because the State law has precedence. Buyer and renter notification is often the only recourse in trying to improve the noise acceptability for residents in mixed -use projects. The notification should inform the potential residents that commercial uses are located nearby, that their hours of operation may change from time to time, and that the use within the commercial area, along with the noise generation potential, may also change over time. A policy has been included in this Element to encourage proper notification of residents in mixed -use developments of potential noise levels. Aqua Dulce Airport The Agua Dulce Airport is located in the northeast quadrant of the Santa Clarita Valley, in a rural populated area under the jurisdiction of the County of Los Angeles. The airport is privately owned but is open to the public. The airport has a single 4,600 foot -long runway and serves general aviation aircraft only. There are many noise restrictions in place for flight operations. No night operations are allowed at the airport. Aircraft are not allowed to fly within 1,000 feet of the Agua Dulce Elementary School, which is located one mile southwest of the airport. If aircraft depart to the north on Runway 4, they are to avoid flying over the homes 2,000 feet northeast of the end of the runway. Finally, touch-and-go practices are not allowed at the airport. A 65 CNEL noise contour has been generated for the airport by the County of Los Angeles and is included in the Technical Appendix. The noise contour barely extends past the ends of the runway and does not impact any residences. Therefore, no significant noise effects from airport operations were identified in the Noise Study. Six Flags Magic Mountain Theme Park Six Flags Magic Mountain is an amusement park located in the western quadrant of the Santa Clarita Valley planning area. The park operates a large number of thrill rides including a number of roller coasters, has live entertainment, and periodically puts on firework displays. The fireworks displays occur predominantly during the summer months and at Thanksgiving and Christmas. With the exception of the display on July 4th, which typically lasts 15 minutes, the displays last between one and two minutes. All displays occur before 10:00 p.m. Fireworks are an impulsive noise source, which means, under Section 12.08.190 of the County's Noise Ordinance, that it is of short duration, usually less than one second and of high intensity, with an abrupt onset and rapid decay. The noise levels and hours of operation around the park vary considerably depending on the time of day, the day of the week, the presence of holidays, and the season of the year. The noise levels generated by park activities can be heard for a considerable distance around the park at certain times. People buying or renting homes in the area may be surprised later when DRAFT — September 2010 N-28 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise they can hear park activities. A buyer/renter notification program may be appropriate for new developments that locate in the area, and a policy has been included in the Element to encourage proper notification, where appropriate. Special Events Special events, such as outdoor concerts, may be held in the planning area on an irregular or regular basis. The noise levels as they impact surrounding parcels would be limited by the Los Angeles County Noise Ordinance and the Santa Clarita Noise Ordinance. The noise ordinances apply to any events that are held on private property. The City of Santa Clarita Noise Ordinance consists of Chapter 11.44 of Municipal Code. The limits contained in the ordinance would apply to any special event, with only "lawfully conducted parades" and "emergency work" exempted from the Ordinance. The Los Angeles County Noise Ordinance is contained in Chapter 12.08 of the County Code. Similar to the City of Santa Clarita Noise Ordinance, the Los Angeles County Ordinance contains specific noise limits that cannot be exceeded at the property boundary. The limits vary depending on the time of day and land uses involved. Finally, it should be noted that the noise ordinances are contained in the City or County codes, and are not part of the Noise Element of the General Plan. Control of noise sources on private property is usually regulated through the imposition of a city or county regulation, and is not typically part of the General Plan. Emergency Vehicles Noise generated by emergency vehicles is not under the control of the City or the County. Both the City and County noise ordinances exempt emergency operations from noise regulation. The State has preempted local jurisdictions from controlling noise generated by emergency equipment. The use of sirens on police vehicles, ambulances, and fire trucks cannot be controlled by the City or County. Similarly, emergency flights of helicopters and airplanes cannot be controlled by the City or County. Therefore, noise from these sources is not subject to policies in the Noise Element. However, the location of heliports and helipads is subject to zoning requirements for discretionary review, and to environmental review pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act. H. Planning Strategies to Minimize Noise Impacts The information on existing and future projected noise levels described in the previous sections of this Element has been used as a guideline for the development of policies to ensure that land uses are compatible with the noise environment. This information will also provide baseline levels and noise source identification for enforcement of local noise regulations. N-29 DRAFT — September 2010 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan The most basic planning strategy to minimize adverse impacts on new land uses due to noise is to avoid designating sensitive land uses in areas that are subject to high levels of noise. Uses such as schools, hospitals, child care, senior care, congregate care, churches, and all types of residential use should be located outside of any area anticipated to exceed acceptable noise levels as defined by the Noise and Land Use Compatibility Guidelines, or should be protected from noise through sound attenuation measures such as site and architectural design and sound walls. The State of California has adopted guidelines for acceptable noise levels in various land use categories (California Office of Planning and Research, General Plan Guidelines 2003, Appendix C). The City of Santa Clarita and the County of Los Angeles have adopted these guidelines in a modified form as a basis for planning decisions based on noise considerations. The modified guidelines are shown in Exhibit N-8. Modifications were made to eliminate overlap between categories in the table, in order to make the guidelines easier for applicants and decision makers to interpret and apply to planning decisions. As described earlier in this Element, most residential uses throughout the planning area have generally been designed with adequate setbacks from noise sources such as arterial roadways, or have been protected by sound walls. This measure has already been implemented throughout the planning area and will continue to be applied in the future, based on the policies in the Element. However, future residential development next to Interstate 5 may require increased wall height for sound attenuation, based on projected traffic volumes. Excessive wall height needed for noise control is subject to both engineering and aesthetic constraints. Sound wall heights greater than 16 feet are generally considered to be infeasible, and the appearance of walls this high may not be acceptable in rural residential areas. Therefore, a policy has been included in the Element that prohibits residential buildings within 150 feet of the Interstate 5 centerline. The policy references the centerline because the right-of-way width for 1-5 varies throughout the planning area. It should be noted that the recommendation to require a separation between freeways and residential uses for purposes of noise attenuation is in accordance with other adopted State guidelines. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has identified airborne pollutants generated from diesel exhaust as a potential health risk to residents next to freeways, and has also adopted recommended spacing criteria for residential uses adjacent to freeways. For uses that are not classified as noise sensitive but which may be subject to potentially significant noise impacts, site planning and design standards can be used to reduce noise impacts. Through the design and environmental review processes, mitigation measures may be applied such as buffer zones to increase separation between uses; earthen berms, walls, and other noise attenuation devices; site planning and building orientation to shield outdoor spaces; orienting windows away from noise sources; and use of acoustical building materials and double -paned windows. Policies encouraging these measures have also been included in the Element. For uses that are subject to single event noise levels, such as noise generated by trains, mixed uses, or entertainment uses, it is recommended that adequate disclosure of these noise sources be provided to potential renters and homebuyers. A policy has been included in the Element with suggested disclosure language. DRAFT — September 2010 N-30 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise Exhibit N-8: Noise and Land Use Compatibility Guidelines Comrrtunilty Norse Exposure Land Use Qrfegary CIWEZ, ds 5 lRnldanllel- Low Demily / IiAmi a ply, Dwhxr ;: MixW •• FMIlAintlel- IrMkrlle. TrwWairil MDWEL Wells Schraoh, L rlrs, 1r ChLmhaa, Hcepllllla, — NurOig Homm ••'- .... Awirtonuaks, Cony prt H2 Ac. Arnplrllhe�lerc $"FI5 Ar6W.Ouldoor Spmaa orSpgrts P9Byijrdvinds. Neiilhborhoad Parka ""IA IIITRI Gall Courser•, -Riding Siwoics. Walar Rae-rasiian. + --� ��� Cemeteries 1 Qlrire Buildings, II arGAmss Con-imrmina and - ... Indusjinal, illanuraciuring, Utilities, AgriruOure i iiirryi LEGEND NORMALLY ACCEPTABLE SpaaW land use re satisfacoryirlased upcn the asaumonn Ihm any buildings inya,.,ed are or numEd eor+vend-onal ciormnmion, w i9:M A any special rioise iris-ilmion requlreme m9 CONNTIONALLY ACCEPTABLE Now canatrr rdion or duvelrpmeni shwid to undevlalken only ML& a delsiled analysis of the noma reducdlon requramenla is mach and needec noise kisdfatilion realutes included in the design. Con verlhonal ronstrwbiri, b+Awlh dried windowsertd heart sir supply sy!Aemsof ai conddionirrg oil linrmatr}rsuifice. 111113111 NORMALLY UNACCEPTABLE New corelruaiW Of dftelo"ril ahOuld gwlErAly he dsuourlged H now c+onsVu=n or develop mern does props -ad. a daWed analysis of the wise redunbon requirerraanls must 4e msrde and needed noise insulmion reauria irrtiiJded In Ilse desigo. Sound wsu% window upgrades. and sibs dEisigrl ItSod€rang iyS MST be needed its ordar I0 adiaue clty standards CLEARLY New conslruWon ordeveloprnerl 9hruld gWer811y NO. be under liken CQNSWERAWNS IN DETERMINAT10N OF NOISE -COMPATIBLE LAND U r+■�rel=��.?1•tl�l.l�i �•].lror_t�[•lk�•]�_::�.��a Wlkv;r .i favinl kbtl v'+e yt+. 0,441mir land Ua{ Wll"lt}With rtq*-A to a-A-wA-cnse mine ar CNEL, I Issrdly_ a lulus prajr€hDn ref "sr I CkeL4 rti<p7rC4i{ay14 � +s'c�[ 5�: F.'xislln� and flllurC ni�.4C C91110u1S rar freeway, roa:hmy— airport and railroads are praoided in die Maisie Elerue a B. NOISE SOURCE CH/IRACTM 'Ilu- INMI gt*mury¢ v"traliallt4lily rna.,AriYnk*"ltitr5 Aftild kh rl4-A;,cd in relaGtar 4t ihe spxvcdr€ scum od the noise. Far exurrrplr, arcrafi and rarlrand roust is. nanmlty made up raf Npplrer sinSIe praise a -vans lhkH ;j0hi trouts Iwl fregasnU) 'fTiyvfdnN. J111101MI souruex 3-irrdinpl The same composite maisc exposure do net Ilgca��,lly �retrllu IM. �1rlt ruiucltylrsrtyant 1ArR Stal.C.arcraurutx� Aim mes 65 dE fKEL ns the aiwian which aiports muss eVenlrolly [WIN lei VtOI {'# iti9liM f0iddllihl tNWHIyMMOVy Irprli UllAUi)gl&lV Cili+bharty lo, nirctit! wrxit.. in *&,T 10 &k+AIM, the ilur 6"' 4 lhb Ad, one of which rs to encoulziLm loped uses crrmpodi4le mlh The 65 d4 C'NEL <'n1t iint +rlr rtYrr I ilrPt, arri ifi Srrdsk lip Iwdilme lh<= abililt or srprrris to oumply rosnrh the Acl. res;i&nlial oars Ioeried in nrm rr illi nn wilerah 110i5c Ica Ci UmItt Lbm -0r3 t.:14 . slkiuld la: drsrrrrrg5rd and cansidered lo€aled within nnrmolly onacurptoible or=. 1— r:tli'_l-11-1UJr:�:1.]:1=.:ird::.•]iG5f�5� Skye olrjec®vr of Irkding resibiwillial uaiL% ralalive go a knomm uirse source is ra mainlnin a suilahlr inicmw nr>i w ensiranmrnl nt no -^,rvmwt lhwli a5 dK UNht. nhN Willi IIIG me,ixured Lw iluulved narse reduction prsiarmanuz al Ilrc type 4 s4nit9nrc ln"Jvi' L1,,Ai arJQ jvmi, $:WJ LI gmern Uw. rillilrrnlim M-k'UjNW—* distance to a near siorer. U. ACCEPTABLE OUTDOOR ENVIRONMEIffS IhrKAher considerrtion whi€hm same cammurilres is an awariding fwanm_ Is Ilta dare fkw an artixp+oUv Limik1or Il ft CMIM. 11". 1bt a€ceptahle outdaar naisr level is b5 fNLL for rear pard m as, rluithlrorhaod parks, and pool racrcnliou areas wl niuliidalnily w n<lbarblab N-31 DRAFT — September 2010 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan I. Summary of Noise Planning Issues Based on the existing conditions and projected growth as described in the background sections of the Noise Element, the major noise issues for the Santa Clarita Valley are summarized below. Policies and objectives in this Element have been developed to address these issues. 1. Existing and projected noise generated by traffic on freeways, highways, and arterial streets were evaluated, and noise levels should be considered in land use planning for adjacent areas. 2. Existing and projected noise generated by Metrolink and freight rail were evaluated, and noise levels should be considered in land use planning for areas adjacent to the railroad. 3. Residential neighborhoods and other noise sensitive land uses should be protected from excessive noise. 4. Potential noise impacts from any future high-speed rail project should be evaluated and mitigated through the appropriate environmental review process. 5. Proposed new development projects should be reviewed to ensure that noise impacts are mitigated to acceptable levels. 6. Coordination with other agencies should be ongoing to ensure that noise impacts from freeway projects and other public improvements are mitigated. 7. Compatibility of land uses in mixed -use developments with respect to noise should be considered in future land use decisions. 8. Adequate disclosure should be required to residents who may be affected by possible noise sources that cannot be abated. 9. Consistency between the City of Santa Clarita and the County of Los Angeles with respect to the Noise and Land Use Compatibility Guidelines contained in Exhibit N-8 is intended to maintain a safe and healthy noise environment for all Santa Clarita Valley residents. DRAFT — September 2010 N-32 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise PART 2: NOISE GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES Noise Environment Goal N 1: A healthy and safe noise environment for Santa Clarita Valley residents, employees, and visitors. Objective N 1.1: Protect the health and safety of the residents of the Santa Clarita Valley by the elimination, mitigation, and prevention of significant existing and future noise levels. Policy N 1.1.1: Use the Noise and Land Use Compatibility Guidelines contained on Exhibit N-8, which are consistent with State guidelines, as a policy basis for decisions on land use and development proposals related to noise. Policy N 1.1.2: Continue to implement the adopted Noise Ordinance and other applicable code provisions, consistent with state and federal standards, which establish noise impact thresholds for noise abatement and attenuation, in order to reduce potential health hazards associated with high noise levels. Policy N 1.1.3: Include consideration of potential noise impacts in land use planning and development review decisions. Policy N 1.1.4: Control noise sources adjacent to residential, recreational, and community facilities, and those land uses classified as noise sensitive. Policy N 1.1.5: Monitor and update data and information regarding current and projected noise levels in the planning area. Policy N 1.1.6: Provide development review comments on projects proposed by other agencies and special districts that may generate noise impacts affecting land uses within the Santa Clarita Valley, including any freeway and high-speed rail projects. Reduction of Noise from Traffic Goal N 2: Protect residents and sensitive receptors from traffic -generated noise. Objective N 2.1: Prevent and mitigate adverse effects of noise generated from traffic on arterial streets and highways through implementing noise reduction standards and programs. Policy N 2.1.1: Encourage owners of existing noise -sensitive uses, and require owners of proposed noise sensitive land uses, to construct sound barriers to protect users from significant noise levels, where feasible and appropriate. Policy N 2.1.2: Encourage the use of noise absorbing barriers, where appropriate. Policy N 2.1.3: Where appropriate, coordinate with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to ensure that sound walls or other noise barriers are constructed along Interstate 5 and State Route 14 in the immediate vicinity of residential and other noise sensitive developments, where setbacks and other sound alleviation devices do not exist. N-33 DRAFT — September 2010 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy N 2.1.4: Reduce significant noise levels related to through -traffic in residential areas by promoting subdivision circulation designs to contain a hierarchy of streets, which efficiently direct traffic to highways. Policy N 2.1.5: Encourage employers to develop van pool and other travel demand management programs to reduce vehicle trip -generated noise in the planning area. Policy N 2.1.6: Work with the City of Santa Clarita Transit to improve and expand current public transit services and routes to reduce vehicle trips and resulting noise levels. Policy N 2.1.7: Require vehicle owners to properly maintain their equipment to avoid generating excessive noise levels. Residential Neighborhoods Goal N 3: Protect residential neighborhoods from excessive noise. Objective N 3.1: Prevent and mitigate significant noise levels in residential neighborhoods. Policy N 3.1.1: Require that developers of new single-family and multi -family residential neighborhoods in areas where the ambient noise levels exceed 60 CNEL provide mitigation measures for the new residences to reduce interior noise levels to 45 CNEL, based on future traffic and railroad noise levels. Policy N 3.1.2: Require that developers of new single-family and multi -family residential neighborhoods in areas where the projected noise levels exceed 65 CNEL provide mitigation measures (which may include noise barriers, setbacks, and site design) for new residences to reduce outdoor noise levels to 65 CNEL, based on future traffic conditions. This requirement would apply to rear yard areas for single-family developments, and to private open space and common recreational and open space areas for multi -family developments. Policy N 3.1.3: Through enforcement of the applicable Noise Ordinance, protect residential neighborhoods from noise generated by machinery or activities that produce significant discernable noise exceeding recommended levels for residential uses. Policy N 3.1.4: Require that those responsible for construction activities develop techniques to mitigate or minimize the noise impacts on residences, and adopt standards that regulate noise from construction activities that occur in or near residential neighborhoods. Policy N 3.1.5: Require that developers of private schools, childcare centers, senior housing, and other noise sensitive uses in areas where the ambient noise level exceeds 65 dBA (day), provide mitigation measures for these uses to reduce interior noise to acceptable levels. Policy N 3.1.6: Ensure that new residential buildings shall not be located within 150 feet of the centerline for Interstate 5. DRAFT — September 2010 N-34 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise Policy N 3.1.7: Ensure that design of parks, recreational facilities, and schools minimize noise impacts to residential neighborhoods. Policy N 3.1.8: As a condition of issuing permits for special events, require event promoters to mitigate noise impacts to adjacent sensitive uses through limiting hours of operation and other means as appropriate, which may include notification to affected residents. Policy N 3.1.9: Implement a buyer and renter notification program for new residential developments where appropriate, to educate and inform potential buyers and renters of the sources of noise in the area and/or new sources of noise that may occur in the future. As determined by the reviewing authority, notification may be appropriate in the following areas: a. Within one mile of Six Flags Magic Mountain theme park, potential buyers and renters should receive notice that noise may occasionally be generated from this facility and that the frequency and loudness of noise events may change over time. b. Within 1,000 feet of the railroad, potential buyers and renters should receive notice that noise may occasionally be generated from this facility and that the frequency and loudness of noise events may change over time. c. Within 200 feet of commercial uses in mixed -use developments, potential buyers and renters should receive notice that the commercial uses within the mixed -use developments may generate noise in excess of levels typically found in residential areas, that the commercial uses may change over time, and the associated noise levels and frequency of noise events may change along with the use. d. Within 1,000 feet of the Saugus Speedway, in the event speedway operations are resumed in the future. Commercial and Industrial Noise Goal N 4: Protection of sensitive uses from commercial and industrial noise generators. Objective N 4.1: Prevent, mitigate, and minimize noise spillover from commercial and industrial uses into adjacent residential neighborhoods and other noise sensitive uses. Policy N 4.1.1: Implement and enforce the applicable Noise Ordinance to control noise from commercial and industrial sources that may adversely impact adjacent residential neighborhoods and other sensitive uses. Policy N 4.1.2: Require appropriate noise buffering between commercial or industrial uses and residential neighborhoods and other sensitive uses. Policy N 4.1.3: Adopt and enforce standards for the control of noise from commercial and entertainment establishments when adjacent to residential neighborhoods and other sensitive uses. N-35 DRAFT — September 2010 Noise City of Santa Clarita General Plan PART 3: IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NOISE ELEMENT City of Santa Clarita The City of Santa Clarita will implement the goals, objectives and policies of the Noise Element of the City of Santa Clarita General Plan through the following actions: 1. On the Land Use Map, designate areas that are subject to noise for appropriate land uses, in order to reduce exposure of persons and property to hazardous conditions. 2. Implement the noise provisions of the Municipal Code, including regulations on special events, street vending, and construction noise. 3. As part of the review process for new discretionary development applications, require consistency with the goals and policies of the Noise Element, including the guidelines for land use and noise compatibility, through requiring detailed noise analysis and mitigation of interior and exterior noise levels for residential and other sensitive uses, where appropriate. 4. Review and provide input on projects undertaken by other agencies, including Caltrans and high speed rail projects, which may affect the noise environment to ensure that acceptable noise levels are maintained to protect residents. 5. In design of City facilities that have the potential to generate noise, such as parks, outdoor concert or sports venues, or transit facilities, ensure that noise impacts are mitigated to protect adjacent sensitive land uses. 6. During construction within public right-of-way for road widening or other improvements, control noise impacts on adjacent sensitive uses through hours of operation, noise reduction requirements on equipment, and other appropriate measures. 7. Through code enforcement, monitor noise conditions throughout the City and enforce noise regulations, as needed, to protect public safety and welfare. 8. As part of the annual General Plan review process, conduct an annual review of the Noise Element, along with other General Plan elements, to determine compliance, and file a report with the California Office of Planning and Research and Department of Community Development pursuant to Government Code Section 65400(a) (2). 9. Ensure compliance with building standards for noise attenuation, such as insulation and window types, through plan review and inspection procedures on all new construction, pursuant to adopted codes and ordinances. 10. Review any proposed General Plan Amendments to ensure compliance with applicable goals and policies of the Noise Element; coordinate this review with the County of Los Angeles, as appropriate. 11. Monitor the effectiveness of the Noise Element in achieving the goals of protecting property, public health, and safety; initiate amendments thereto as needed to meet changing conditions, needs, and policies, coordinating such amendments with the County, as appropriate. DRAFT — September 2010 N-36 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise 12. Work with owners of commercial and industrial uses to encourage businesses to limit employee exposure to loud noise, and to reduce noise spillover onto adjacent businesses and properties. 13. Require the provision of disclosures to potential renters and buyers of residences in areas subject to noise events, where appropriate. 14. Control noise from special events through conditions of approval and enforcement. 15. Where feasible, assist or cooperate in the building of sound walls to mitigate noise impacts on sensitive land uses. N-37 DRAFT — September 2010 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space CONSERVATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT DRAFT MAY 2011 PART 1 BACKGROUND AND PLANNING ISSUES A. Purpose and Intent of the Conservation and Open Space Element The Conservation and Open Space Element combines two of the mandatory General Plan elements required by State law into a single element. Section 65302(d) of the California Government Code requires "a conservation element for the conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources including water and its hydraulic force, forests, soils, rivers and other waters, harbors, fisheries, wildlife, minerals, and other natural resources." Article 10.5 of the Government Code establishes the framework for open space planning by local jurisdictions and the required contents of an Open Space Element including open space for outdoor recreation, public health and safety and preservation of natural resources. Many resource conservation issues are related to planning for open space preservation. For example, lands containing significant natural resources, such as Towsley Canyon and Elsmere Canyon, are designated as open space on the General Plan land use map. Some historical and cultural resources have been incorporated into park and recreational facilities, such as the William S. Hart Park and Museum. Many hiking and recreational trails connect open space lands with developed parks, and provide access to natural resource areas. Open space areas provide opportunities for groundwater percolation to enhance water quality and recharge of groundwater aquifers. These examples show the connection between resource protection and open space preservation, and highlight the benefits of planning for both as a coordinated effort. Because of the close relationship between resource conservation and open space planning, these two topics have been combined into an integrated Conservation and Open Space Element. This combined Element establishes a policy framework for the designation and long-term preservation of open space within the planning area, and addresses the wide range of community benefits derived from open space. In addition to providing land for park and recreational facilities, open spaces provide the benefits of wildlife habitat preservation, scenic views, water recharge and watershed protection, enhancement of air quality, protection of cultural and historical resources, moderation of microclimates, and enhanced property values. In addition, preservation of scenic and accessible open spaces around the urbanized portions of the Valley, and between neighborhoods and districts, contributes to community character and the distinctive sense of place enjoyed by Santa Clarita Valley residents. B. Background Consistency with Other General Plan Elements The Conservation and Open Space Element of the General Plan is consistent with the Land Use Element, because those areas having value for resource conservation purposes have been designated for open space, agriculture, or rural, low -density development on the Land Use Map. In addition, policies in the Conservation and Open Space Element to protect air and water quality are consistent with Land Use and Economic Development Elements policies promoting mixed -use development, sustainable and walkable communities. The Conservation and Open Space Element is consistent with the Circulation Element, because both Elements promote air quality goals through multi -modal strategies to reduce vehicle trips. The Element is consistent CO-1 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan with the Safety Element, because many of the areas prone to natural hazards, such as flooding and seismic shaking, are also subject to conservation issues such as water quality, groundwater recharge, slope stability, and soil erosion; the maps, policies and programs of both elements have been coordinated to preserve such areas as open space. The element is consistent with the Housing Element, because adequate residential uses have been designated within the planning area to meet the need for new housing without impacting natural resource areas; and because parks, recreational, and open space amenities have been planned to serve Valley residents. The Element is consistent with the Noise Element, because policies have been included to ensure that noise from aggregate resource extraction will not be detrimental to residents and other sensitive uses, and that noise from human activities will not be detrimental to natural communities. Resource Maps The background, goals and policies of this Conservation and Open Space Element are supplemented with exhibits that show the locations and extent of the following resources within the planning area: • Significant ridgelines and hillsides subject to development restrictions (Exhibit CO-1); • Mineral Resources, including areas with significant aggregate resources as designated by the State (Exhibit CO-2); • Water Resources, including surface waters such as rivers and lakes, and underground basins (Exhibit CO-3); • Groundwater Recharge Areas including groundwater Basins and recharge areas (Exhibit CO-3b); • Biological Resources (Exhibit CO-4) and Significant Ecological Areas as designated by the County (Exhibit CO-5); • Cultural and Historical Resources, including areas of local significance as well as sites having State or national historical designations (Exhibit CO-6); • Scenic Resources, including canyons, geological features, and significant ridgelines (Exhibit CO-7); • Open Space Resources, including passive and active parks and natural open areas protected for resource conservation (Exhibit CO-8); • Master Plan for Trails, including regional, County, and City trails and bikeways (Exhibit CO-9). Development and conservation policies have been established for each of these resource types, as set forth in Part 2, Goals and Policies, of this element. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-2 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Organization of the Element The Background section of the Conservation and Open Space Element contains subsections for the following resource issues: soils and geological resources; water, including water supply, quality and conservation; biological resources; cultural and historical resources; air quality, energy conservation and climate change; parks, recreation, and trails; and open space conservation. Goals, objectives and policies have been included in Part 2 to address each of these issues. C. Prior Planning Efforts for Conservation and Open Space City Planning for Open Space and Conservation The City adopted its first Open Space and Conservation Element in 1991, and updated the Element in 1999. The element addressed the issues of open space, biological resources, soil resources, mineral resources, water resources, energy conservation, and cultural and historical resources. Policies in the element addressed preservation of natural features and ridgelines, sensitive habitats, recreation, the designation of open space as a buffer from natural hazards, protection of mineral resources, groundwater quality and recharge, and preservation of cultural resources. In addition, policies were included to address energy conservation and recycling. In order to implement the resource conservation policies of the original General Plan, the City adopted ordinances as part of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Municipal Code to regulate soil erosion and dust prevention, hillside development, ridgeline preservation, stormwater quality, and oak tree preservation. The City also adopted a Park and Recreation Master Plan in 1995, which is currently being updated; and an Open Space Acquisition Plan in 2002, which will be updated as part of the Open Space Initiative passed by the voters in 2007. The City adopted the Non - Motorized Plan in 2008. These plans are discussed in greater detail in subsequent sections of this Element. Countv Plannina for Open Space and Conservation The County adopted the Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan in 1984 with a comprehensive update in 1990 to address specific planning issues within the Valley. Areas with special significance for resource preservation were depicted on the Land Use Map of the Area Plan, including Open Space, Hillside Management, Significant Ecological Areas, and Floodways/Floodplains. The Area Plan contained a Scenic Highways Plan and plans for Trails and Bikeways, along with goals and policies to promote preservation of open space and conservation of resources. Hillside development policies were included for areas with slopes of 25 percent or greater. The County has also adopted ordinances to regulate and protect natural resources, including native oak trees, water quality, significant ecological areas, and hillside development. In 2007 the County recently updated the Master Trails Plan for the Santa Clarita Valley, and has made numerous improvements to park and open space areas. More information about these topics is contained in applicable sections of this element. D. Environmental Sustainability The term sustainable development has been defined as balancing the fulfillment of human needs with the protection of the natural environment, so that these needs can be met not only in the present, but in the indefinite future. The term was first used in 1980 in the World Conservation Strategy published by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. In CO-3 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan 1987 the Brundtland Commission (established by the United Nations General Assembly) defined sustainable development as meeting "the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs", and this definition has come into general usage. Research on sustainable development has generally focused on four areas: environmental sustainability, economic sustainability, social sustainability, and political sustainability. For purposes of the Conservation and Open Space Element, the concept of environmental sustainability is addressed throughout the various background sections as well as in the goals and policies. An environmentally sustainable approach to land use planning is an interdisciplinary process, considering proposed development and the surrounding ecosystem as components of interdependent systems. These systems are complex, interconnected, and dynamic. The fundamental basis of environmental sustainability is that the well-being of people is maintained and enhanced only when the integrity of the ecosystem is maintained; therefore, the outcomes of development decisions on all systems must be evaluated to ensure the well-being of both the human and natural environments. Sustainability should be considered at every level of urban organization, from individual development sites to neighborhoods, districts, and regions. Environmental sustainability goes beyond the concept of minimizing individual impacts through mitigation measures, and is instead a positive approach geared toward achieving long-term well-being for human and natural ecosystems. Because the issues of air quality, energy consumption, water supply and quality, climate change, depletion of non-renewable resources, loss of biodiversity, use of land, and human health are all interrelated, ensuring environmental quality and public welfare requires new approaches to environmental protection. In the early years of regulation, environmental requirements focused on "end -of -pipe" treatment that limited the amount of pollutants entering water bodies and air basins from particular sources. In more recent years, the focus in environmental protection has shifted to "upstream" approaches called source controls, which may include minimizing resource use, reducing waste generation, product substitution, and producing fewer pollutants. Evaluating pollution control and waste minimization at the source requires a greater understanding of the wider impacts of development through the life cycle of construction, use, re -use, demolition, and recycling of materials — impacts that may go beyond the boundaries of the planning area, and that may extend over many years. Understanding life cycles for development projects requires a more integrated, systematic approach to evaluating and planning for development. For example, it has been pointed out that constructing a "green" building with recycled materials and energy -efficient lighting may have minimal benefit, if the location of the building causes a large increase in vehicle emissions due to its location many miles from employees, suppliers, and markets. In the following background sections, and in the goals and policies set forth in Part 2 of this element, environmental sustainability has been addressed for the following issues: • Renewable resource systems, including watersheds, aquifers, air resources, and biological resources; Non-renewable resource systems, including mineral resources, use of materials from fossil fuels, loss of open space, and generation of waste that cannot be recycled; DRAFT May, 2011 CO-4 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space • Long-term chemical impacts, including existing and future pollutants that enter the environment from industrial, transportation, and other sources; Human -built systems, including land use, cultural resources, green building and design, and low impact development; Information and decision -making, including developing tools for monitoring the well- being of environmental systems, and providing this information to decision -makers and residents to assist them in making more sustainable decisions. Approaching the land planning process from a standpoint of environmental sustainability will require a shift in thinking on the part of local officials, staff, and builders. As with many new ideas, resistance to change is expected. Methods of reducing pollution have already been developed and are generally available at affordable prices, but have yet to be widely adopted. Recent studies have found that barriers to sustainability arise because technological and economic systems, and governing institutions are designed for permanence and reliability, rather than change. For example, the economic systems and social mores based on consumption of oil, including automobile sales and use, are rooted in American institutions and lifestyles. In other cases, sustainable materials and practices have not been adopted because cost savings would be deferred, rather than realized immediately. For instance, The Economist reported in 2007 that even though use of available energy -efficient materials and design practices can reduce the cost of operating buildings by 30 percent, most builders do not incorporate them in project design because they don't plan to own and operate the buildings long-term. Addressing the issue of resistance to change will be a major objective in creating more environmentally sustainable communities in the Santa Clarita Valley. Government, business, and citizens must work together to create a vision of sustainable development that includes both human and environmental wellness. E. Soils and Geologic Resources Soil and Geologic Resource Issues State law requires that the General Plan address the prevention, control, and correction of the erosion of soils, and the location, quantity and quality of the rock, sand, and gravel resources (Government Code Section 65302). Within the Santa Clarita Valley, the primary conservation issues with respect to soils and geologic resources are soil conservation; hillside development and ridgeline protection; and extraction of mineral resources. Soil Resources and Conservation The loss of topsoil is the most significant on -site consequence of erosion that occurs during and after construction or other soil disturbance. Topsoil is the soil layer that contains organic matter, plant nutrients, and biological activity. Loss of topsoil reduces the soil's ability to support plant life, regulate water flow, and maintain the biodiversity of soil microbes and insects that control disease and pest outbreaks. Loss of nutrients, soil compaction, and decreased biodiversity of soil inhabitants can severely limit the vitality of landscaping. This can lead to additional site management and environmental concerns, such as increased use of fertilizers, irrigation and pesticides, and increased stormwater runoff that contribute pollution to nearby water bodies. CO-5 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan The off -site consequences of soil erosion from developed sites include a variety of water quality issues. Runoff from developed sites carries pollutants, sediments and nutrients that disrupt aquatic habitats in the receiving waters. Nitrogen and phosphorous from runoff hasten eutrophication by causing unwanted plant growth in aquatic systems, including algal blooms that alter water quality and habitat conditions. Algal blooms can also result in decreased recreation potential and diminished diversity of indigenous fish, plant, and animal populations. Sedimentation also contributes to the degradation of water bodies. The build-up of sedimentation in stream channels can lessen flow capacity, potentially leading to increased flooding. Sedimentation also affects aquatic habitat by increasing turbidity levels. Turbidity reduces sunlight penetration into the water and leads to reduced photosynthesis in aquatic vegetation, causing lower oxygen levels that cannot support diverse communities of aquatic life. Erosion and sedimentation control measures are needed in order to minimize difficult and expensive mitigation measures in receiving waters. The cost of erosion and sedimentation control on construction sites involves minimal expense associated with installing and inspecting control measures and devices, particularly before and after storm events. Best management practices have been established under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) as part of the federal Clean Water Act, to decrease erosion and sedimentation. The topic of post -construction runoff management continues to expand and is addressed in NPDES permits, which require pre -project runoff water balance, sedimentation balance, and channel protection. Policies have been included in the General Plan to underscore the importance of soil conservation in the Santa Clarita Valley. Hillside Development and Ridgeline Protection The planning area is surrounded by the Santa Susana Mountains to the south and west, the San Gabriel Mountains to the southeast, and the Sierra Pelona Mountains to the north, all of which are part of the Transverse Ranges. Smaller hills and ridgelines bisect the valley floor, which contains the drainage courses of the Santa Clara River and its tributaries. About 45 percent of the planning area (168,345 acres) contains land with slopes greater than 10 percent, and 7,866 acres of land contain slopes of 25 percent or greater (see Exhibit CO-1). Both the City and the County have adopted policies and ordinances to regulate development in hillside areas, in order to protect the scenic quality and integrity of hillside areas from over- development and erosion. In the City, average slopes exceeding 10 percent are subject to special development standards, while in County areas such standards apply to land with average slopes of 25 percent or more. Both City and County standards for hillside development are intended to ensure that development in hillside areas maintains the natural topography, resources, and amenities of these areas. In addition, the City has designated mapped ridgelines, and the County has designated significant ridgelines within the Castaic Community Standards District, which is located within the western portion of the planning area (see Exhibit CO-1). Standards have been adopted by both agencies to regulate development in order to preserve these scenic resource areas. Policies have been included in this Element to support regulating development within hillside areas and along significant ridgelines in a consistent manner. In order to achieve a more uniform approach to regulating hillside development throughout the planning area, the City and County have agreed to cooperate on developing a set of hillside guidelines that would apply throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-6 7 0 04 LL TEAM Q u 6 of 1 0 0 0 0 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Mineral Resources Mining activities in California are regulated by the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975 (SMARA). This Act provides for the reclamation of mined lands and directs the State Geologist to classify and map mineral resources to show where economically significant mineral deposits occur, or are likely to occur. Areas known as Mineral Resource Zones (MRZ) are classified according to the presence or absence of significant deposits. MRZ-2 areas are underlain by mineral deposits where geologic data indicate that significant measured, or indicated, resources are present. The planning area contains extensive aggregate mineral resources. Almost 19,000 acres in the planning area are designated by the State as MRZ-2, or areas of prime importance due to known economic mineral deposits. Sand and gravel resources are primarily concentrated along waterways, including the Santa Clara River, the South Fork of the Santa Clara River, Castaic Creek, and east of Sand Canyon Road. A significant deposit of construction -grade aggregate extends approximately 15 miles from Agua Dulce Creek in the east, to the Ventura County line on the west. As of 2003 there were about 525 acres of land in the planning area used for mineral extraction of sand, gravel, and rock. There were 14 permits for surface mining activities filed with the County. Generally, aggregate mining sites are located in Canyon Country, Agua Dulce, Mint Canyon, and Soledad Canyon (see Exhibit CO-2). SMARA requires that significant mineral resources be protected from encroachment by incompatible development, as they provide a needed resource to support the construction of new homes, businesses, and roads. Mineral extraction within the County is an allowed use within agricultural zones, subject to approval of a surface mining permit. Within the City, areas that have significant mineral aggregate resources have been designated by a zoning overlay district that permits extraction, along with other compatible uses. The major goals of SMARA are to assure that (1) adverse environmental effects are prevented or minimized and that mined lands are reclaimed to a usable condition which is readily adaptable for alternative land uses; (2) the production and conservation of minerals are encouraged, while giving consideration to values relating to recreation, wildlife, range and forage, and aesthetic enjoyment; and (3) residual hazards to the public health and safety are eliminated. These goals are achieved through the planning process by allowing the City and County to balance the economic benefits of resource reclamation with other land use and environmental goals. The General Plan identifies significant mineral resource areas on the Mineral Resources Map, and contains policies to protect these areas from incompatible development, while ensuring that extraction and reclamation activities are compatible with other development and that adverse environmental impacts are mitigated. The Santa Clarita Valley also contains other mineral resources which have been extracted historically, including gold, natural gas, and oil. Many older mines and oil wells have been abandoned, although several oil and natural gas wells are still in production (see Exhibit CO-2). Policies have been included in the element to ensure that wells are properly capped and mines sealed, and that any pollutants associated with extraction activities are remediated, in order to ensure public safety after these operations are completed. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-8 ;I i t IN INFIF 00 0 0? 0 C) Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan F. Water Resources California Government Code Section 65302(d) requires that the "portion of the conservation element including waters shall be developed in coordination with any countywide water agency and with all district and city agencies that have developed, served, controlled or conserved water for any purpose for the county or city for which the plan is prepared." Further, it requires that the element address prevention and control of the pollution of streams and other waters, regulation of the use of land in stream channels required for accomplishment of the conservation plan, protection of watersheds, and flood control. In compliance with these requirements, this section addresses the issues of surface water, groundwater, and long-term water supply. Surface Water Resources The planning area is located within the Santa Clara River Valley basin, a watershed that encompasses approximately 1,634 square miles. The Santa Clara River is the largest river system in Southern California that remains in a relatively natural state. From its headwaters in the San Gabriel Mountains to its terminus at the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Clara River flows approximately 84 miles. Historically, the river has generally flowed year-round from the area near Interstate 5 westerly into Ventura County (a noted exception is the "dry gap" area located between the Los Angeles County/Ventura County line and Piru Creek). The upper reach of the river, has been typically dry except in periods following storm events; this portion of the river extends from the Bouquet Canyon Road overpass to Lang Station, located on Lang Station Road south of Soledad Canyon Road and east of Lost Canyon Road. Flows within the river are largely a result of stormwater runoff in the rainy months and wastewater treatment discharges in the drier months. Effluent from the Saugus Water Reclamation Plant (WRP) and Valencia WRP accounts for up to 40 percent of total stream flow within the Santa Clara River during the winter, and up to 90 percent during summer months. Principal tributaries to the upper Santa Clara River include creeks located in Mint, Bouquet, San Francisquito, Castaic, Oak Spring, and Sand Canyons. The principal tributaries of the South Fork of the river, which drains in a northerly direction toward its confluence with the main course of the river, include Placerita Creek, Newhall Creek, and Pico Creek. At higher elevations these creeks are typically perennial, flowing all year unless rainfall is below normal. Flow in the stream canyons near the valley floor is normally limited to the rainy season. Dry Canyon Reservoir is a 1,313-acre foot storage facility located in Dry Canyon between Bouquet and San Francisquito Canyons, north of Saugus.' The reservoir was placed in service in 1913 to provide aqueduct storage and regulate flows in the Los Angeles Aqueduct, but was taken out of service in 1966 due to seepage problems. Currently the reservoir impounds water only during storms. Castaic Lake is a 324,000 acre-foot storage facility created by an earth -filled dam across Castaic Creek. The reservoir serves as the West Branch Terminus of the California Aqueduct. In addition to its State Water Project (SWP) functions, the lake is operated to conserve local floodwaters for use in water recharge of underlying groundwater basins. Castaic Lagoon is located directly south and downstream of Castaic Dam, and was created by the California ' An acre foot is the amount of water required to fill one acre to the depth of one foot, equivalent to 325,000 gallons, and is estimated to be the amount of water needed to serve two families of four for one year. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-10 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Department of Water Resources (DWR) to provide recreational opportunities. The Lagoon has a surface area of 197 acres and a capacity of 5,701 acre feet. Elderberry Forebay is also a part of the Castaic Reservoir system, and is an enclosed section of Castaic Lake. Surface water resources are shown on Exhibit CO-3. Streams Topographical maps prepared by the U. S. Geological Survey (USGS) show several types of water courses and drainage areas with different symbols, and these symbols have changed somewhat over time. Perennial streams (in which water typically runs year-round) and intermittent streams (in which water runs for only part of the year) are both shown with blue lines on most USGS maps, although some maps show intermittent streams with a brown dotted line or with a different line width from perennial streams. Wide wash areas are shown with a brown dot pattern. These symbols are used to delineate various topographic features, based on field observation or aerial photos. However, USGS does not claim legal authority for the classification of streams, and the stream classification used on the maps is a somewhat subjective process based on the observations and judgment of personnel in the field, during a limited period of time. Although USGS topographical maps are meant to be as accurate as possible in providing the public with information about topography and other mapped features, USGS does not perform scientific measurements to determine stream classifications. This is an important point because of some confusion about the term "blue -line streams" as it has been used in legislation and in general discussion of stream characteristics. The term is sometimes used to refer to "jurisdictional waters," meaning areas that are under the jurisdiction of State and Federal agencies ("waters of the United States"). However, jurisdictional waters can include more streams than are shown on USGS maps; conversely, streams that are shown on topographical maps may no longer flow in the same location on the ground as what was shown on the map. As development has occurred in many areas, streams may have been diverted or channelized for flood control purposes, and drainage patterns may have changed. Topographical maps are updated periodically, but may not reflect all changes to stream courses. Therefore, topographical maps cannot be depended on as a final authority for delineating possible streams, riparian areas, or wetlands. For this reason, the General Plan does not use USGS topographical map information on blue line streams as a basis for planning or land use decisions. The most recent information available to the City and County on streambed locations are the Federal Insurance Rate Maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) mapping program for flood control hazard areas. These maps were most recently updated in 2008, and the information from these maps has been included in the Safety Element as shown on Exhibit S-4, Floodplains. It is not feasible to map all jurisdictional waters for the General Plan, because each stream must be mapped individually by a trained specialist. Also, because streams change course over time, jurisdictional waters surveys are valid for only five years. However, the Conservation and Open Space Element contains policies to protect the Santa Clara River and its tributaries, as well as other riparian areas, from the adverse impacts of development. Development proposals that affect jurisdictional waters may also require permits from the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, the California Department of Fish and Game, and the Regional Water Quality Control Board. CO-11 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Groundwater Resources Groundwater is concentrated into natural hydro -geological units called basins. An aquifer is a subsurface area where water collects, concentrates, and can be extracted within a basin. Multiple aquifers may be located within each basin. The three major groundwater basins underlying the planning area are the Santa Clara River Valley Groundwater Basin, East Subbasin (East Subbasin) and the Acton Valley Groundwater Basin. The East Subbasin encompasses the upper Santa Clara River Valley and is comprised of two aquifer systems, the Alluvium (also referred to as the Alluvial Aquifer), and the Saugus Formation. The Alluvial Aquifer generally underlies the Santa Clara River and its tributaries, and the Saugus Formation underlies nearly the entire Upper Santa Clara River area. Groundwater in the East Basin generally flows from east to west, following the movement of the Santa Clara River. The East Subbasin is the sole source of local groundwater for urban water supply in the Valley. Groundwater basins are shown on Exhibit CO-3. Because up to 80 percent of the average annual precipitation occurs between November and March, most groundwater infiltration is in the form of winter -storm flow. However, the East Subbasin is also replenished by deep percolation of agricultural land, urban irrigation, percolation from septic tanks and leach field systems, and treated effluent from water reclamation plants. The Acton Valley Groundwater Basin encompasses about 17 square miles and is bounded by the Sierra Pelona on the north and the San Gabriel Mountains on the south, east, and west. Groundwater in the basin is unconfined and found in alluvium and stream terrace deposits. The regional direction of groundwater flow is in a southwesterly direction toward Soledad Canyon. Replenishment of this basin is achieved through percolation of direct rainfall and infiltration of surface water runoff, agriculture and irrigation, and septic tanks. There is no pumping for urban water supply and distribution from this basin, although individual users in the far eastern portion of the planning area may have private wells in the Acton Valley Groundwater Basin. Groundwater recharge areas are shown on Exhibit CO-3b. Natural or soft bottom drainage channels and wide natural floodways and flood plains maximize the groundwater recharge potential and help to replenish the aquifers. As an unchannelized river, the Santa Clara River and its tributaries provide opportunities for groundwater recharge. The best available evidence shows that no adverse impacts on basin recharge have occurred due to the existing use of local groundwater supplies, consistent with the Castaic Lake Water Agency (CLWA)/purveyor groundwater operating plan for the basin (see 2005 Basin Yield Report). In addition, according to the memorandum prepared by CH2MHill (Effect of Urbanization on Aquifer Recharge in the Santa Clarita Valley, February 22, 2004), urbanization in the Santa Clarita Valley has been accompanied by long-term stability in pumping and groundwater levels, and the addition of imported SWP water to the Valley, which together have not reduced recharge to groundwater, nor depleted the amount of groundwater in storage within the local groundwater basin. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-12 Im | � v: \� ' � � � � �{ � \\�! . \ �ƒ§ § ) � j � 2 ��/� . �§ � # ���$2! J�/2 ƒ ! ���/�\ 6L;S J! ( /j } / / , a } 4/f/\ 0 j 0 C) I I-Oolp- ail 14 0 0000 Ol lNg! City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space March 2006, a technical memorandum specific to the recharge of the Saugus Formation, was prepared by Luhdorff & Scalmanini Consulting Engineers. This technical memorandum, Evaluation of Groundwater Recharge Methods for the Saugus Formation in the Newhall Ranch Specific Plan Area, presented the following findings: • Historical observations for several decades have shown that there have been no long- term changes in groundwater storage or levels and that natural recharge processes have sustained groundwater levels, including long-term, essentially constant, high groundwater levels — without the need for artificial recharge operations to augment natural recharge to the basin. • The future operating plan for the basin has been evaluated in both the 2005 Urban Water Management Plan and the 2005 Basin Yield Report and neither document calls for attempts to artificially recharge the basin. • The Saugus Formation is generally recharged in the east to central portion of the basin. Groundwater flow in the basin is generally east to west with resulting groundwater discharge at the western end of the basin. • If artificial recharge of the Saugus Formation were to become desirable in the future, the recharge is hydro -geologically feasible through injection wells. This mechanism would alleviate the need to set aside land area for artificial recharge purposes, and would likely occur in the eastern portion of the Saugus Formation. There would be no need for artificial recharge in the western part of the basin. Water Supply The primary sources of water in the planning area include groundwater pumped from the aquifers in the East Subbasin, supplemented by imported water from the State Water Project (SWP). Completed in 1972, the SWP is the largest water diversion system in the world, consisting of 22 dams and reservoirs; the largest of these is an earthen dam near Oroville which holds 3.5 million acre feet of surface runoff from the northern Sierras. When released from the Oroville Dam, SWP water flows down the Feather and Sacramento Rivers into the Sacramento - San Joaquin Delta, where it is pumped across the Delta to prevent it from flowing into the ocean. From the Delta, SWP water is conveyed 444 miles south through the Edmund G. Brown California Aqueduct, which parallels Interstate 5 as far as the Tehachapi Mountains. The water is raised 2,000 feet by the Robert D. Edmonston Pumping Plant, enabling it to be conveyed across the Tehachapi Mountains and into the Antelope Valley. The water is then distributed to SWP reservoirs in Castaic and Moreno Valley. At full capacity the SWP system can convey 4 million acre feet per year. About 30 percent of the water is used for agricultural irrigation, primarily in the San Joaquin Valley, and 70 percent is used for residential, municipal, and industrial use. CO-15 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan The most southerly reservoir on the West Branch of the SWP California Aqueduct is Castaic Lake. Castaic Lake Water Agency (CLWA) receives water from Castaic Lake and distributes it to the local purveyors following treatment. CLWA was formed in 1962 for the purpose of contracting with the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) to provide a supplemental supply of imported water to the water purveyors in the Valley. CLWA serves an area of 195 square miles in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, with an annual contract for 95,200 acre feet of SWP water. The Agency treats and distributes a portion of SWP water to four water purveyors (also referred to as retailers) in the planning area, which in turn provide water to households and business customers in the City and unincorporated communities. State law requires water utilities that serve over 3,000 customers to update and submit an Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) every five years. CLWA and the four local retail water purveyors jointly prepared and adopted an UWMP for the Santa Clarita Valley in 2005. The 2005 UWMP was prepared for a 25-year planning horizon, through 2030, and addressed the following question: Will there be enough water for the Santa Clarita Community in future years, and what mix of programs should be explored for making this water available? The 2005 UWMP concluded that a reliable and high quality water supply would be available to Valley water customers, based on conservative water demand and implementation of conservation measures. Although the 2005 UWMP acknowledged that SWP water will remain an important supplemental water supply source for the Valley in the long term, it also emphasized the need for conjunctive use of local groundwater, increased use of reclaimed water, and a substantial water conservation effort. Local water retailers currently pump over 50 percent of the domestic water supply from groundwater aquifers. This water is generally blended with SWP supplies prior to distribution to domestic customers. Another source of water comes from transfers, exchanges, and groundwater banking programs. In 2007, CLWA completed acquisition of an 11,000 acre-foot per year supply of high -flow Kern River water that is being delivered to Castaic Lake using SWP facilities. In addition, CLWA has banked over 115,000 acre feet in groundwater banks in Kern County; this water will be used to offset shortages during future dry years. Due to the rapid growth in the Santa Clarita Valley, annual total water demand has more than doubled between 1980 and 2004 (from about 37,000 acre feet to about 88,000 acre feet). The UWMP projects annual increases in water usage of about 2.2 percent through 2030 without conservation measures in place, and 1.3 percent annual water usage increases with conservation measures. Projected 2030 demand is estimated at 138,300 acre feet. This estimate is in line with population growth projections prepared for the update of the City's general Plan and the County's Area Plan. As part of the 2005 UWMP, water shortage contingency planning was also addressed by the water agencies. These contingencies included continued drought, an interruption of SWP delivery, and power outages. Plans for such contingencies include water conservation, mandatory limits on use, and penalties for excessive use, among other measures. The amount of SWP water supply delivered to the SWP contractors in a given year depends on the demand for the supply, the amount of rainfall, snowpack, runoff, water in storage, pumping capacity from the Delta, and legal and environmental constraints on SWP operation. According to the DWR, water delivery reliability depends on three general factors: (1) the availability of water at the source; (2) the ability to convey water from the source to the desired point of delivery; and (3) the magnitude of demand for the water. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-16 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space A topic of growing concern for water planners and managers is climate change and the potential impacts it could have on California's future water supplies. Current literature suggests that climate change is likely to significantly impact the hydrological cycle, changing California's precipitation pattern and amount from that shown by the historical record. According to DWR, there is evidence that some changes are already occurring, such as snowmelt beginning earlier in the Sierras, an increase in water runoff as a fraction of the total runoff, and an increase in winter flooding frequency. More variability in rainfall, wetter at times and drier at times, would place more stress on the reliability of existing flood management and water supply systems, such as the SWP. Local responses to climate change due to greenhouse gas emissions are discussed in a later section of this element. Sacramento -San Joaquin Delta Issues Affecting Water Supply After adoption of the joint 2005 UWMP by Santa Clarita Valley water agencies, a 2007 judicial decision concerning the Sacramento -San Joaquin Delta temporarily reduced water allocations by the SWP, pending further actions by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to mitigate habitat impacts from water exports. As noted above, CLWA contracts with the DWR to purchase SWP water, with an annual contract amount of 95,200 acre feet. SWP water represents nearly half of the water used by Valley residents and businesses during a typical year, with groundwater resources providing the rest. Because of the importance of SWP water to continued growth and development in the Valley, a brief description of the issues pertaining to the Delta, and their impact on water supply, is provided in this section. The current issues with distribution of SWP supplies result from a legal decision on a court case that concerned impacts of water pumping on fragile ecosystems of the Sacramento -San Joaquin Delta. The Delta is a network of natural and artificial channels and reclaimed islands at the confluence of the south -flowing Sacramento River and the north -flowing San Joaquin River, just east of where they enter Suisun Bay, an upper arm of San Francisco Bay. Extending in width more than 40 miles from Sacramento to Tracy, the Delta encompasses 1,600 square miles, receives runoff from four major rivers, drains over 40 percent of the State, and carries more water seaward than the Colorado River. The Delta provides habitat for numerous species of fish and wildlife; nearly half of the State's migrating waterfowl and shorebirds, and two thirds of the State's spawning salmon, pass through the Delta. Author William Fulton described the multiple functions served by the Delta for both ecological and economic purposes: The Delta is a crossroads for all of California. Its flush of fresh water contains almost half the runoff in the state, and helps forestall saltwater intrusion that would harm people and wildlife. The Delta contains vital shipping channels that serve long- established industrial ports in Martinez, Pittsburg, Stockton... It is a heavily used recreation area prized by fishing interests, boaters, and others. It is home to several towns, including at least two below sea level. Thanks to a system of levees constructed over a century, the Delta has hundreds of thousands of acres in farmland, including some 150,000 acres that lie below sea level. And finally, the Delta is a switching station for California's water. Most of the water used in the state — from municipal and federal dams to the east and state dams to the north — is stored, flushed, and pumped across the Delta to reach farm and urban customers to the west and south. Sixty percent of the state's drinking water travels through the Delta, along with water to irrigate almost half the fruits and vegetables in the United States.2 2Fulton, William. The Reluctant Metropolis: the Politics of Urban Growth in Los Angeles. Point Arena CA, Solano Press Books, 1997, pages 110-111. CO-17 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan In the spring of 2007, the State saw the first voluntary shutdown of the SWP pumps in the Delta to protect fish. The goldfish -sized Delta smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus), a state- and federally -listed endangered species, and some other pelagic (open water) fishes have been in decline since the early 2000s for reasons that likely include the presence of invasive species, which have altered the basic food web in the Delta, and the impacts of toxins, in -Delta diversions, and water project operations. In 2007, SWP operational changes in the Delta costing over 500,000 acre-feet were taken to help protect the endangered Delta smelt. Unfortunately, these actions did not result in an increase in the abundance of Delta smelt in the fall of 2007, suggesting that more than just water project operational changes in the Delta are needed to increase Delta smelt abundance. In addition, another pelagic fish, the Iongfin smelt, is now being considered for listing under the State Endangered Species Act. DWR states that a more comprehensive approach to address the decline in pelagic fish is needed. The Delta smelt is considered to be an "indicator species." Because of its wide range and historically large numbers throughout the Delta, some believe its health and abundance serve to indicate the general health of the Delta as habitat for other species. Like the proverbial canary in a mine shaft, Delta smelt populations react quickly to degradations of water quality, indicating changes that may affect other species. In addition, smelt and other small fish in the Delta serve as the foundation for the food chain that supports larger species of fish and marine life, including striped bass, a popular fish for recreational fishermen. Populations of smelt have seriously declined over the last twenty years. From a population of 800,000 during the 1960s and 1970s, the smelt population has dropped to about 35,000 in the Delta. Of most immediate concern to conservationists, smelt and other small fish are in danger of being sucked into the large pumps that siphon water from the Delta into aqueducts that carry it to water customers located hundreds of miles to the south. During 2007, new Delta planning efforts — including the Delta Vision process established by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and the Bay/Delta Conservation Planning process — have reached important conclusions about the need to change the way water is conveyed across or around the Delta to both better protect fish and provide a sustainable and reliable water supply for the State. Those efforts are expected to continue into 2008 and beyond. As noted above, the Sacramento -San Joaquin Delta is the largest estuary on the West Coast. It functions as the hub of California's water system, as a vital resource in the fishing and agricultural economies, serves as a recreational area, and is home to millions of Californians. A 2007 report by the Public Policy Institute of California concluded that "most Californians rely on the Delta for something, whether they know it or not." Numerous water agencies rely on the State pumps in the Delta, and many would face water rationing within a few weeks if Delta supplies become unavailable. Regions of the State that depend on imported water from the Delta must consider the importance of this region for all Californians, and plan for contingencies in the event water supplies from the Delta are temporarily or permanently reduced due to competing demands. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-18 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space As to the ability to convey source water to the desired point of availability, DWR reports that an uncertainty factor exists with respect to SWP operations, because they are closely regulated by Delta water quality standards established by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) and set forth in Water Rights Decision 1641. DWR also reports other factors of uncertainty due to the continuing unexplained decline in many pelagic fish species, including the Delta smelt since the early 2000's, and the legal challenges to SWP operation and on -going planning activities related to the Delta. Other uncertainties include future sea level rise associated with global climate change, which could increase salinity in the Delta and the risk of interruptions in SWP diversions from the Delta due to levee failures. The referenced litigation challenges are described in more detail below. As to estimating the future demand for SWP water, DWR has identified uncertainty factors including population growth, water conservation, recycling efforts, other supply sources, and global climate change. In addition to the above -identified factors affecting water delivery reliability, DWR has reported other limitations and assumptions, all of which are explained in the Draft State Water Project Delivery Reliability Report 2007. This report has also identified the status of four major concurrent Delta planning efforts that are underway with objectives related to providing a sustainable Delta over the long-term. These planning efforts may propose changes to SWP operations, which in turn could affect SWP water supply availability. The planning efforts are the Delta Vision, the Delta Risk Management Strategy, the CALFED Ecosystem Restoration Program Conservation Strategy, and the Bay -Delta Conservation Plan. According to DWR, each planning effort could affect SWP and Central Valley Project operations in the Delta, and each is explained in detail in the Draft State Water Project Delivery Reliability Report 2007. Recent litigation has had an effect upon the availability and reliability of imported SWP supplies. For example, in October 2006, plaintiff Watershed Enforcers, a project of the California Sportfishing Protection Alliance, filed a lawsuit in Alameda County Superior Court alleging that DWR was not in compliance with the California Endangered Species Act (CESA) and did not have the required state incidental take permit to protect the Delta smelt as part of DWR's pumping operations at the Harvey O. Banks Pumping Plant located near the town of Tracy (Watershed Enforcers, et al. v. California Department of Water Resources, et al. Alameda County Superior Court No. RGO6292124 [Watershed decision. In April 2007, the court agreed with the plaintiff and ordered a shutdown of pumping from the Delta if appropriate permits could not be obtained in 60 days. In May 2007, the DWR filed an appeal of the trial court's decision, which automatically stayed the decision pending the outcome of the appeal. At the same time, DWR entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) to jointly work with the appropriate federal agencies to develop a federal Biological Opinion that complies with CESA. During preparation of the new Biological Opinion, DWR committed itself to actions related to protecting the Delta smelt and other species through adaptive management provisions. Upon completion of this effort, DWR plans to submit a request to CDFG for a consistency determination under CESA that would allow for incidental take based on the new federal Biological Opinion. On May 25, 2007, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District, the Honorable Oliver W. Wanger, presiding, found that the 2005 United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Biological Opinion for Delta smelt was not consistent with the requirements of the federal Endangered Species Act and must be rewritten. On August 31, 2007, Judge Wanger established interim operating rules to protect Delta smelt until the USFWS rewrites the Biological Opinion. The interim operating rules set in -Delta flow targets in Old and Middle Rivers from late December through June that will restrict CVP and SWP pumping in 2008 and CO-19 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan until the Biological Opinion is rewritten. Judge Wanger's restrictions on CVP/SWP operations will last until a new Biological Opinion for Delta smelt is completed. The new Biological Opinion is expected to impose restrictions that may continue reduced pumping operations in the SWP/CVP until broader solutions are implemented for the Bay -Delta. Other implications are described below based on the best available current information. In terms of short-term water supply availability, there have been short-term effects related to issues presented in the Watershed and Wanger decisions. There is also concern that the remedy adopted by the District Court could ultimately become part of the conditions in the new Biological Opinion and incidental take permit expected to be issued in the fall of 2008. These concerns, if they materialize, could limit the amount of SWP water that can be delivered to SWP contractors, including CLWA. Governor Schwarzenegger directed DWR to take immediate action to improve conditions in the Delta. According to the Office of the Governor, the Governor is building on his Strategic Growth Plan, which consists of approximately $6 billion to upgrade California's water systems. The Governor has also directed the Delta Vision Blue Ribbon Task Force to develop a delta management plan. The Task Force has presented its findings and recommendations, and its strategic plan is due by October 31, 2008. The Bay -Delta Conservation Plan is also underway. This plan is intended to ensure compliance with federal and state Endangered Species Act requirements in the Delta. The $1 billion proposed in the Governor's comprehensive plan will be used to fund recommendations from both the Delta Vision Task Force and the Conservation Plan. Over the long-term, water supply availability and reliability will continue to be assessed by DWR in DWR's biennial SWP delivery reliability reports. These reports necessarily take into account a myriad of factors in evaluating long-term water supply availability and reliability. These factors include multiple sources of water, a range of water demands, timing of water uses, hydrology, available facilities, regulatory restraints (including pumping constraints due to impacts on listed fish species), water conservation strategies, and future weather patterns. The Watershed and Wanger decisions highlight the regulatory restraints applicable to SWP supplies, which have impacted DWR deliveries of SWP supplies in the past, and could curtail such deliveries in the future. Following the final court order issued in the Wanger decision, representatives of CLWA and the four local retail water purveyors met with Los Angeles County and City of Santa Clarita planning staff to coordinate water supply and land use planning activities for the Santa Clarita Valley. In addition, DWR has issued its Draft State Water Project Delivery Reliability Report, 2007. Based on this information, CLWA has determined that there are sufficient water supplies available for pending and future development within the CLWA service area for the foreseeable future through 2030, as set forth in the 2005 UWMP. The Valley's water suppliers are presently reviewing their projected service needs and water supply estimates, and will be jointly preparing an amended UWMP beginnin in 2009. Water Conservation Water conservation has become an increasingly important factor in water supply planning throughout California, especially in light of continuing drought conditions and the Delta issues described above. A monthly newsletter issued by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's office in January, 2008 underscored the State's concern about water availability: DRAFT May, 2011 CO-20 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Today California has more than 37 million people with a water system built for half that, and we are seeing the consequences. Businesses and homes are facing mandatory reductions in water use, and new developments that would provide good -paying jobs have been delayed because local governments don't know if there will be enough water to go around.3 Adding to concerns about water supply are recent studies of the effect of climate change on precipitation rates and snowpack in the western United States. A 2007 study by scientists at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography showed that climate change from human activity is disrupting water supplies in the region. "Trends in snowpack, river runoff and air temperatures — three fundamental indicators of the status of the West's hydrological cycle — point to a decline in the region's most valuable natural resource, water, as population and demand grows in the West," according to a Scripps press release describing the study's conclusions.4 Through extensive data analysis and multiple models, all of which yielded the same results, the study forecasted a serious water supply problem for those dependent on the Colorado River drainage, and substantial alterations to the hydrology of the Sacramento River Delta, home to many sensitive ecosystems and economically important wildlife. Although the Santa Clarita Valley does not use water imported from the Colorado River, this water source is critical to portions of the Los Angeles basin served by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. Any reduction in Colorado River water availability is likely to affect demands for water from the State Water Project. The Colorado River basin is now in the eighth year of drought, and water levels in Lakes Mead and Powell are at only about 50 percent of capacity. One of the greatest opportunities for conservation is reduction of landscape irrigation through greater efficiency and use of native, drought -tolerant plant materials. Grasses bred for use in lawns are not native to North America, and require a large amount of water to promote growth. Since the Santa Clarita Valley's annual precipitation is only about 13 inches per year, much of the water used for landscape irrigation must be imported. As much as 60-70 percent of the water used by residential customers is typically for landscape irrigation. Water conservation by residential customers through minimizing water -dependent landscaping and maximizing low- water use landscaping (xeriscape) could contribute significantly to ensuring that long term water needs are met in the Valley. The term xeriscape was coined by the Denver Water Board in 1978 to mean "water conservation through creative landscaping". A well -designed xeriscape landscape can reduce yard maintenance by as much as 50 percent, and requires less fertilizer and pesticides. Watering efficiently and mulching can also save significantly on water usage. Xeriscape plants use just one tenth of the water that a lawn of green grass uses. Each lawn that is replaced with xeriscape plants can save up to 260 gallons of water per day. Public agencies have an opportunity to set an example on water conservation in landscaping, by replacing water -thirsty turf with xeriscape on street medians and parkways, around public buildings, and on other public land that is not actively used for recreational purposes. CLWA has installed a demonstration garden adjacent to its administration building, and provides information on xeriscape landscaping techniques. In 2008, Los Angeles County adopted an 3 State of California, Office of the Governor, External Affairs, Monthly Newsletter January, 2008. 4 Scripps Institution of Oceanography/UC San Diego, "Climate Crisis in the West Predicted with Increasing Certainty, December 17, 2007. Available on-line at http://scrippsnews.ucsd.edu/Releases/?releaseID=856 CO-21 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan ordinance limiting the amount of turf and requiring drought -tolerant landscaping on new development. Included in the ordinance was a list of drought -tolerant plants suitable for various climate zones within the County. Both the City and the County will show their commitment to wise water use through converting turf to xeriscape on new capital projects. Policies have been included in this element supporting these measures. In other water conservation measures, CLWA and the retail water purveyors in the valley have been aggressively implementing demand management measures and best management practices. Activities include water audits and repairs, public outreach, conservation pricing, residential plumbing retrofit, residential ultra low flush toilet replacement, large landscape conservation, and conservation programs for commercial, industrial, and institutional accounts. For new construction, the California plumbing code has instituted requirements that mandate installation of low -flow toilets and showerheads. CLWA estimates that conservation will result in a long-term reduction of water demand. Water Recvclin State water policy identifies water recycling as a beneficial use of water, and recycled water is an important component of water management planning. The Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (LACSD) own and operate two water reclamation plants in the Valley, the Saugus WRP (No. 26) and the Valencia WRP (No. 32). Wastewater is treated at these plants to tertiary levels and discharged to the Santa Clara River. The primary sources of wastewater to the Saugus and Valencia WRPs are domestic. Together, the WRPs have a design capacity of 28.1 million gallons per day. Current plans call for recycled water from only the Valencia plant, located on The Old Road near Magic Mountain Amusement Park, to be used as a source of recycled water. Use of water from the Valencia WRP for landscaping purposes began in 2003, with deliveries to the Westridge Golf Course. Recycled water from the Valencia WRP has also been used by the City for landscape irrigation, and for construction applications via tanker truck. The ability of CLWA to use recycled water is constrained by its rights to use the water available. CLWA has been approved to use 1,700 acre feet per day of recycled water, but the ultimate recycled water use is governed by various laws, court decisions, and water rights of downstream users. Only "foreign" water, such as water imported from the State Water Project, can be used for recycling purposes. Developers of the Newhall Ranch Specific Plan are also planning to construct a water recycling facility, and non -potable water from this source will be utilized for the Newhall Ranch development. The proposed facility would be located south of SR-126 at the western edge of the project site, with an ultimate capacity of 6.8 million gallons per day. Effluent from the proposed WRP would be used to meet non -potable water demand within the project area. The plant is projected to produce approximately 5,000 acre-feet per year on average. Currently, CLWA serves approximately 448 acre-feet per year of recycled water to the Valencia Water Company for irrigation purposes at Westridge Golf Course and other sites. CLWA has identified a number of potential users of recycled water in the future. Demands for recycled water are seasonal, with the highest demands occurring during the hot, dry summer months when irrigation requirements are greatest. CLWA estimates that the total potential annual recycled water demand that is cost effective to serve is approximately 17,400 acre-feet per year. Implementation of the recycled water system is expected to occur over the next 25 years. CLWA has identified various strategies to encourage the use of recycled water, including rate reductions and working with the City to mandate recycled water use for certain applications. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-22 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space AB 1881 The California State approved Assembly Bill 1881, which requires the Department of Water Resources to create a model ordinance to improve the efficiency of water use in new and existing urban irrigated landscape in California. A draft ordinance has been created and is currently being utilized by the City. The County and the City of Santa Clarita will pursue meeting its requirements including the implementation of water efficient irrigation and landscaping on all future developments. Water Quality The federal Clean Water Act was adopted to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation's waters. The Act directs each state to establish water quality standards for all "waters of the United States." The Environmental Protection Agency has delegated responsibility for implementation of portions of the Clean Water Act, including water quality control planning, to the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) and nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCB). The SWRCB establishes statewide policies and regulations for implementing water quality control programs. The RWQCBs develop and implement Water Quality Control Plans (Basin Plans) that consider regional beneficial uses, water quality characteristics, and water quality problems. Each Basin Plan also provides strategies and implementation plans for the control of pollutants, remediation of pollution, monitoring, and assessment of the region's waters. The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Program was established in the Clean Water Act to regulate discharges of pollutants into surface waters of the United States. Both point discharges (such as a municipal or industrial discharge at a specific location or pipe) and nonpoint source discharges (such as diffuse runoff of surface water from streets and parking lots) are regulated by the NPDES Program. In addition, construction activities which may result in water -born erosion from grading or stockpiling are regulated through various techniques called "best management practices." Water quality management plans and stormwater pollution prevention plans are required for development projects to meet the requirements of the NPDES Program to maintain water quality. Surface water quality within the planning area is affected by a variety of discharges from both point and nonpoint sources. Wastewater treatment plant effluent is the largest and most common point -source discharge. Urban runoff, erosion, agricultural runoff, and other natural causes are common nonpoint sources. Pollutants from both point and nonpoint sources include dissolved and suspended solids, oil, grease, nutrients, metals, bacteria, and pesticides. The Santa Clarita Valley planning area is within the hydrological areas covered by the 1994 Water Quality Control Plan for the Santa Clara River Basin (California Department of Water Resources Hydrological Unit No. 403.51). Portions of the Santa Clara River watershed have been identified as an "impaired water body" by the SWRCB because waters in these areas exceed adopted standards for various pollutants. Pollutants of concern include chloride, coliform, ammonia, nitrates, nitrites, and various organics. In 2005, the Upper Santa Clara River Chloride Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) became effective, outlining a 13-year plan to reduce chloride levels in the river. Chloride sources include SWP water imported into the Valley for drinking water, reclaimed water from the Valencia and Saugus WRPs, and domestic sources (including water softeners and salt -water pools). The use of residential self -regenerating water softeners installed prior to 2003 is the most significant controllable source of chloride entering in to the community sewer system, accounting for approximately 30 percent of all chloride in the CO-23 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan discharge. The WRPs have not been designed to remove chloride. Although installation of new automatic water softeners was prohibited in 2003, it is estimated that thousands of self - regenerating water softeners are still in use within the Santa Clarita Valley Joint Sewerage System. The Sanitation District has initiated a public awareness and education program, financial incentives for removal of water softeners, and a voluntary sales ban of salt and water softeners in local business. In 2007, the Sanitation District entered into an agreement with a water softener provider to remove nearly 600 rented water softeners from Valley residences in order to protect water quality. If salt levels discharged into the river do not decrease due to these compliance efforts, the Sanitation District may have to install additional costly treatment equipment, resulting in higher rate charges to sewage customers. A referendum proposed by the Santa Clarita Valley Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County to ban existing water softeners was passed in November 2008. Both the County and the City are working closely with the SWRQCB to meet requirements for the TMDL, through programs to provide pro -active public education and outreach, incentives for residents and business owners, and implementation of new technologies. A policy has been included in this element supporting cooperative efforts to address TMDL requirements, in order to improve water quality in the Santa Clara River. To ensure drinking water quality of SWP water, CLWA has two surface water treatment plants that eliminate microbial contaminant, salts, minerals and algae. According to the 2005 UWMP, groundwater from the East Subbasin does not have microbial water problems. Parasites, bacteria, and viruses are filtered out as water percolates through soil, sand and rock on its way to the aquifer. However, disinfectants are added to local groundwater when it is pumped by wells to protect public health. All groundwater used for potable water meets or exceeds drinking water standards. Perchlorate contamination emanating from the former Whittaker- Berm ite site in the central portion of the Valley has been detected in the Saugus formation, and to a lesser extent, in the Alluvium formation in the East Subbasin. As discussed in the 2005 UWMP, Chapter 5 and Appendix D, there has been extensive investigation of the extent of perchlorate contamination, which, in combination with groundwater modeling, has led to the current plan for integrated control of contamination migration and restoration of impacted pumping (well) capacity. The short-term response plan for the protection of other alluvial wells, down gradient from the Whittaker- Berm ite site, will be to promptly install wellhead treatment to ensure adequate water supplies. This plan complements the longer -term source control actions being undertaken by the Whittaker- Berm ite property owner under supervision of the State Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) to address perchlorate contamination in the northern alluvium (to the north of the former Whittaker- Berm ite site). The long-term plan also includes the CLWA groundwater containment, treatment and restoration project to prevent further downstream migration of perchlorate, the treatment of water extracted as part of the containment process, and the recovery of lost local groundwater production from the Saugus Formation. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-24 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space There are four Saugus wells contaminated by perchlorate. The four contaminated wells consist of one owned by Newhall County Water District, two owned by Santa Clarita Water District, and Valencia Water Company well 157 which has been sealed and abandoned. These four wells represent a total of 7,900 gallons per minute of pumping capacity (or full-time source capacity of about 12,700 acre-feet per year) inactivated due to perchlorate contamination. Low Impact Development In the past, traditional planning and design techniques have often focused on particular characteristics of a building site and the immediate area, rather than on the relationship of each new development project to the surrounding regional environment. Even more holistic planning concepts such as new urbanism and smart growth have often overlooked the implications of a specific development project on environmental conditions in the greater watershed. Planners now understand that development decisions cannot be limited to site specific conditions, but must be made in consideration of broader environmental conditions such as regional water quality. The construction of impervious surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and rooftops leads to the degradation of water quality by increasing runoff volume, stream sedimentation and water acidity, altering regular stream flow and watershed hydrology, and reducing groundwater recharge. According to the EPA, a one -acre parking lot produces a runoff volume almost 16 times as great as would an undeveloped meadow of the same size. The concept of Low Impact Development (LID) was created to ensure that new development is designed in consideration of overall environmental conditions, including regional water quality. LID is a land -use planning approach that incorporates "green infrastructure" concepts such as zero runoff, rainfall harvesting, groundwater recharge, biofiltration, native landscapes, green streets, and other measures to promote water quality protection in new development. The goal of LID is to protect a community's natural, pre -development water flow in order to minimize ecological impacts of urbanization. The LID concept was created in the early 1990's in Maryland, with support from the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, to improve water quality in Chesapeake Bay. LID was designed to provide cost-effective alternatives to conventional stormwater management, which is typically designed to transport heavily polluted stormwater and urban runoff through pipes and concrete channels as quickly as possible into larger regional water bodies. LID principles were developed to control runoff at the source. According to information from the Low Impact Development Center, basic planning principles include the following: Stormwater management. In LID, stormwater is managed as in a natural system, by creating permeable surfaces to infiltrate stormwater and urban runoff into the underlying soil and reduce the amount of runoff from impervious surfaces. Design measures to manage stormwater at the source include trenches, drainfields, dry wells, and bio-retention areas. Rain gardens are shallow depressions filled with soil, sand and plants that retain, filter, and treat stormwater. Filter strips and bioswales provide pretreatment before waters an infiltrated area. Constructed wetlands are designed to remove pollutants from runoff and provide habitat and recreation value. Vegetated swales move runoff to infiltration systems, slow the erosive velocity, and filter pollutants. CO-25 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan 2. Urban runoff reduction. Urban runoff during dry weather is largely the result of too much water for landscape irrigation, and washing of driveways and sidewalks. This runoff mixes with fertilizer, pesticides, pollutants on roadways, and other contaminants to create some of the most polluted water entering creeks and rivers. LID measures include irrigation control and the use of native and compatible plant species that require less water. 3. Site design and circulation. Minimizing the amount of asphalt and other impervious road and parking surfaces in site design and circulation decreases the amount of runoff and pollutants, while reducing both infrastructure and maintenance costs. Modifications to conventional design to reduce impervious surfaces area includes reduced street widths, reduced parking, use of porous materials in driveways and parking areas, and the use of traffic calming measures that include stormwater capture components. Mixed use development which allows pedestrian circulation and incorporates green belts, conserves open space, and protects natural features will also protect water quality. Policies have been included in this element to require low impact development techniques in the design of both private development and capital projects, for the purpose of managing stormwater at the source, enhancing surface water quality, reducing runoff volumes, and economizing on infrastructure costs for drainage systems and treatment facilities. In October 2008, the County Board of Supervisors adopted a LID ordinance. G. Biological Resources Biological Setting The Santa Clarita planning area encompasses the Santa Clara River Valley, the east extension of the Santa Susana Mountains, the western reaches of the San Gabriel Mountains, and the southern slopes of the Sierra Pelona range. Because of the range of ecosystems found in this geographic setting, the planning area contains a wide variety of natural vegetation types. Approximately 49 percent (237 square miles) of the planning area is located within National Forest lands. Predominant vegetation within National Forest lands include mixed chaparral with hardwood and conifer forests at higher elevations, and riparian vegetation along stream channels. Much of the undeveloped portions of the Valley floor are vegetated with coastal scrub interspersed with annual grasslands. Around and east of Agua Dulce, desert scrub components and scattered junipers are found. Wildlife within the planning area is also diverse. River channels and open upland areas of the planning area provide habitat for movement and foraging, as does the adjacent National Forest land. Species of bats, rodents, rabbits, weasels, badgers, skunks, raccoons, fox, bobcat, black bear, and coyote are known to inhabit canyons throughout the planning area. Various habitats within the planning area also support bird diversity for resident, migratory, and seasonal species. Numerous species of raptors, sparrow, quail, hummingbirds, swallows, larks, and owls have been identified, along with such federal and State special status species as Southwestern Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus), and Least Bell's Vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus). The flycatcher typically occupies the unincorporated County portion of the planning area near Castaic Creek just west of the City boundary, while the vireo is found in local riparian habitats. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-26 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Amphibians and reptiles are abundant and relatively diverse within certain portions of the planning area. Snakes, toads, frogs, lizards, and salamanders are primarily found along the Santa Clara River and its tributaries, as well as other riparian areas. The Unarmored Threespine Stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus williamsonl), a Federal and State -listed endangered species, has also been identified in the planning area. As one of the last free -flowing natural riparian systems left in southern California, the Santa Clara River supports a diversity of organisms by providing breeding sites, traveling routes, and other resources for wildlife. Protection of the watershed for habitat preservation is a key conservation goal. During the history of settlement and resource extraction in the Santa Clarita Valley, the watershed has been damaged repeatedly by human activities. The rupture of the St. Francis Dam in March, 1928 sent a 180-foot high wall of water crashing down San Francisquito Canyon to its junction with the Santa Clara River, sweeping structures, farms, and people in its path as well as wildlife habitat. Mining activities have degraded habitats through pollution of surface and groundwater, crushing activities, roads, pipelines, and other infrastructure constructed within the watershed. Agriculture has generated stormwater runoff that impacts surface and groundwater quality with increased salts, nitrogen, and pesticides. Off -road vehicle use within the watershed damages wildlife directly as well as through destruction of habitat and introduction of exotic and invasive plants. Stormwater drainage systems have changed the path and rate of flow for water entering the river, necessitating the construction of concrete banks for stabilization that impact groundwater recharge. Many of the water conservation policies contained in this element, including water conservation, promoting infiltration through pervious surfaces, use of native landscaping, limiting use of invasive landscape species, and acquisition of open space in the watershed for conservation purposes, will also protect the quality of the Santa Clarita Watershed for habitat conservation purposes. Sensitive Species Sensitive biological resources are those habitats or species that have been recognized by federal, State, and/or local agencies as being endangered, threatened, rare, or in decline throughout all or part of their historical distribution. Numerous sensitive plant and animal species and communities have been identified within the planning area, especially within National Forest lands (see Exhibit CO-4). Sensitive communities include southern coast live oak woodlands, valley oak woodland, southern mixed riparian, southern riparian scrub, sycamore alder riparian woodland, and southern willow scrub. Vernal pools have also been identified on Cruzan Mesa, in Plum Canyon, and within Fair Oaks Ranch. The federally endangered Least Bell's vireo and Southwestern Willow Flycatcher depend on nesting and foraging habitat provided by vegetation communities within the planning area. Riparian habitats along the Santa Clara River, Soledad Canyon, Bouquet Canyon, and San Francisquito Canyon support the endangered Unarmored Threespine Stickleback. CO-27 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Habitat for the following sensitive species is known to occur within the planning area or in forest lands adjacent to the planning area, which should be protected from adverse impacts of development: • Gnatcatcher, coastal California (Polioptila californica californica); • Frog, California red -legged (Rana aurora draytonii); • Toad, arroyo (arroyo southwestern) (Bufo californicus microscaphus); • Barberry, Nevin's (Berberis nevinil); • Stickleback, unarmored threespine (Gasterosteus aculeatus williamsonl); • Flycatcher, southwestern willow (Empidonax trailli extimus). DRAFT May, 2011 CO-28 - /� < . w $ { - w. �� � � . ■ . ■^ . y .j : \ a<\; �--�� .._. � . . ,.., �a «». . , . . . .... .. � (]\: ] < ) ! ■ � ���� � � �&& �v §k \E7) Inn §� - jS § } \ ( § \ Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Significant Ecological Areas The County first began to inventory biotic resources and identify important areas of biological diversity in the 1970s. These biologically important areas, such as the Santa Clara River, have historically been identified in the City's General Plan and Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan. The primary mechanism used by the County to conserve biological diversity is a planning overlay called Significant Ecological Areas (SEA). SEAs are defined as ecologically important land and water systems that are valuable as plant or animal communities, often important to the preservation of threatened or endangered species, and conservation of biological diversity in the County. The SEA overlay, along with the SEA conditional use permit process, are referred to as the SEA Program, which allows the County to implement its biotic resource goals through land use regulations and biological resource assessments. Conservation of the Valley's biotic diversity is the main objective of the SEA Program, and connectivity between important natural habitats plays an important role in maintaining biotic communities. The preservation of large biologically diverse areas is also important because new species may still be found within a few miles of major urban centers, such as the Xylotrechus hovorei, a beetle recently discovered near the Placerita Nature Center. Within the Santa Clarita Valley, the General Plan has designated the following SEAs, as shown on Exhibit CO-5. A more comprehensive description of the Valley's SEAs is contained in an Appendix of this General Plan. Cruzan Mesa Vernal Pools SEA The Cruzan Mesa Vernal Pools SEA lies in the southeastern end of the Liebre Mountains, north of the Santa Clara River and east of Bouquet Canyon. The SEA boundaries encompass the watershed and drainages of the Cruzan Mesa and Plum Canyon vernal pools, considered as a single ecosystem within the SEA. Vernal pools, which are rare in Southern California and extremely rare in Los Angeles County, form seasonally in shallow, closed basins, usually where a lens of heavy clay soil holds surface water following rainfall events. • Santa Clara River SEA The Santa Clara River SEA encompasses the entire Los Angeles County reach of the Santa Clara River, primarily within unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County. The Santa Clara River SEA covers the length of the river and with the watershed extensions encompasses a wide variety of topographic features and habitat types. The orientation and extent of the SEA also consists of the surface and subsurface hydrology of the Santa Clara River, from its headwater tributaries and watershed basin to the point at which it exits Los Angeles County. Santa Felicia SEA The Santa Felicia SEA includes a variety of topographic features and habitat types. The orientation and extent of the SEA encompasses the surface and subsurface hydrology of the Santa Felicia watershed, from its headwater, tributaries, and basin to the point at which it exits Los Angeles County. The northernmost portion of the SEA is within the Angeles National Forest. Capturing the watershed tributaries, the eastern boundary follows a predominate ridgeline, the western boundary is the county border and the southern boundary captures two other small tributaries that feed the Santa Felicia, to encompass the entire watershed that ultimately drains into Lake Piru in Ventura County. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-30 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Santa Susana Mountains/Simi Hills SEA The Santa Susana Mountains/Simi Hills SEA is located northwest of the San Fernando Valley within unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County and an incorporated area of the City of Los Angeles west of Chatsworth. The area is south of State Route 126 and the Santa Clara River, west of Interstate 5, and includes much of the Santa Susana Mountains in the north, the Santa Susana Pass, Chatsworth Reservoir, and the eastern portion of the Simi Hills in the south. Valley Oaks Savannah The Valley Oaks Savannah SEA is located on the west side of Interstate 5, north of Pico Canyon. The area contains one of the last remaining stands of valley oak in the Santa Clarita Valley and a mixture of plants from the coastal sage scrub and chaparral communities, typical of those found in the Santa Clarita Valley. SEAs are not "preserves," and limited development is allowed within these designated areas. However, in order to conserve important biological resources, land -intensive development in SEAs within County areas requires approval of a Conditional Use Permit and an additional level of review by the SEA Technical Advisory Committee. These requirements ensure that development is designed to be highly compatible with the biological resources present in a manner that is consistent with the overall intent of the SEA program and that the impacts of development are balanced with the conservation of natural resources. Exemptions from SEA requirements include the construction of single-family residences, additions to existing single- family residences, accessory structures to single-family residences, and agricultural uses such as animal grazing and corrals. Within the City, any development proposal in an SEA is required to include a biological study evaluating impacts on biological resources from the proposed development, and appropriate mitigation measures. In addition, the City's Unified Development Code requires that any such project be designed to be compatible with biological resources, maintain watercourses and water bodies in a natural state, maintain wildlife corridors, preserve adequate buffer areas or barriers between development and natural resources, and ensure that roads and utilities are designed to mitigate impacts to biological resources. CO-31 DRAFT May, 2011 M 0 0 O N cu LL — 0 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Wildlife Corridors Fragmentation of open -space areas by urbanization creates "islands" of wildlife habitat. In the absence of linkages that allow movement between habitat areas, some wildlife species will not be able to maintain viable populations. Wildlife corridors provide connections between habitat areas that allow animals to move from one habitat area to another. Maintaining wildlife corridors helps to compensate for the isolation and fragmentation of habitats resulting from natural and man-made alterations to the environment; they link habitat areas that may otherwise be separated by rugged terrain, changes in vegetation, or human disturbance. Wildlife use corridors to move between remaining habitat areas in order to mate and replenish depleted populations, to escape from fire and other natural or manmade hazards, and to seek food, water, and other necessities. The Santa Clara River Enhancement and Management Plan Study (SCREMP) identified several key movement corridors within the Planning Area. These corridors are generally located in undisturbed canyon and ravine stream habitat areas. The preservation of these areas is essential for maintaining the wildlife diversity within the planning area. The Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy (SMMC) and the Mountain Recreation and Conservation Authority have also identified wildlife corridors in the Santa Clarita Valley, including Elsmere Canyon, Towsley Canyon, Weldon/Bee Canyon, crossings along SR-14 near Whitney Canyon, and crossings between Canyon Country and Sulphur Springs. Elsmere Canyon is an integral part of the Rim of the Valley Trail Corridor and Wildlife Corridor, linking the Santa Clarita Woodlands, Whitney, and Placerita Canyons. The Rim of the Valley Trail Corridor traverses the Santa Monica, Santa Susana, and San Gabriel Mountains. As mitigation to a major transportation project, the San Gabriel/Santa Susana Wildlife Corridor and Open Space Acquisition Project identified key wildlife linkage corridors within the mountainous areas along the high occupancy vehicle lanes proposed for State Route 14 between Newhall Avenue and Sand Canyon Road. The corridors include the Whitney Canyon Movement Route and the highway underpass known as the Los Pinetos undercrossing. These corridors link significant coastal sage scrub, oak woodland, and riparian woodland and scrub habitats. To date, the City of Santa Clarita has secured and preserved more than 1,000 acres of wildlife corridor lands. A wildlife corridor linkage design has been developed for the San Gabriel-Castaic Connection by the South Coast Wildland, in partnership with the Resources Agency, the U. S. Forest Service, California State Parks, National Park Service, SMMC, and several other agencies. The linkage design provides for a wildlife corridor connecting the two sections of Angeles National Forest within the planning area. According to a report on this linkage design prepared by South Coast Wildlands: The final Linkage Design has several branches to accommodate diverse species and ecosystems functions. The northwest branch is dominated by coastal sage scrub and chaparral and encompasses all or portions of Bee, Spring, Tapia, Tick, and Mint Canyons. It serves most of the focal species, including puma, mule deer, Pacific kangaroo rat, and California thrasher. The eastern branch connects a series of desert scrub and juniper woodland habitats, thereby linking habitat for species such as American badger, burrowing owl, and Bear sphinx moth that prefer open habitat that are prevalent in desert plant communities. The third distinct branch of the Linkage Design follows the Santa Clara River and Soledad CO-33 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Canyon and provides large stepping -stones of habitat for semi -aquatic species, such as the western pond turtle, two -striped garter snake, and mountain kingsnake; it also serves a suite of aquatic and riparian -dependent species (e.g. Unarmored three -spine stickleback, Santa Ana sucker, Arroyo chub, California red -legged frog, Arroyo toad) not addressed by our analysis. State Route 14 and Sierra Highway are major transportation routes and pose the greatest barriers to wildlife movement. Wildlife crossings should be located near the confluence of Spring Canyon, Bee Canyon, and the Santa Clara River; in Agua Dulce Canyon, and at both places where Escondido Creek crosses the freeway. The City of Santa Clarita has purchased several parcels within the Linkage to protect as open space, and will continue to seek ways to protect these important wildlife corridors. National Forest Lands The Angeles National Forest forms the northern and southern border of the Santa Clarita Valley planning area. In terms of planning for future development, the National Forest is an important part of the envisioned greenbelt surrounding the Valley. The mission of the U. S. Forest Service is to "sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations." In 2005, the Forest Service updated its Land Management Plan for the Angeles National Forest, which was amended by a Record of Decision in 2006 selecting Alternative 4(a) as the Land Management Plan that will govern land use and resource management decisions in the Angeles National Forest for the next 10-15 years. The final Land Management Plan identified four major threats to the health of the forest: Fire and fuels — decades of fuel buildup, coupled with drought and disease, have created a situation that poses a threat to the lives and property living in the communities of southern California. Fire is a fact; it is not a question if fires will burn, rather, it is a question of when and how intensively. 2. Invasive species — invasive species are spreading at alarming rates, adversely affecting people and the ecosystems of the Angeles National Forest. 3. Loss of open space — The loss of open space (also known as "fragmentation") has three aspects that challenge effective land management: (1) habitat fragmentation, (2) ownership fragmentation, and (3) use fragmentation. 4. Unmanaged recreation — The phenomenal increase in the use of national forests for recreational activities raises the need to manage most forms of recreation, particularly the use of off -highway vehicles (OHVs), including all -terrain vehicles (ATVs), snowmobiles, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), off -highway motorcycles, motorized trail bikes, and similar means of transportation. In response to these identified threats, the Land Management Plan contains strategies to limit motorized public access to designated areas of the forest; limit development to reduce the loss of open space and retain the undeveloped character of the forest; protect adjacent communities from wildfire; and emphasize plant and wildlife management in all program areas, including a reduction in invasive species. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-34 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space It is recognized that effective forest management requires that City and County residents be good forest neighbors. Of particular importance for City and County dwellers is the area known as the Wildland/Urban Interface, in which urban and rural development abut the forest boundaries. In these areas fuel modification and fire protection will be of prime importance to reduce fire hazards and potential damage to lives and property from spreading forest fires. These areas are also critical to limiting the spread of invasive species into forest areas, and limiting unauthorized motor vehicle use within the forest. City staff reviewed and provided extensive input on the Land Management Plan when it was being prepared, and has reiterated the City's commitment to ensuring that the forest is protected from off -road vehicles, invasive species, and over -development. Urban Forestry Program Planting trees in urban environments delivers substantial economic, environmental, and aesthetic benefits. Trees absorb rain, reducing runoff and decreasing stormwater impacts on drainage facilities. Trees provide windbreaks and shade that lower energy costs in nearby buildings. Green landscapes reduce carbon dioxide and absorb air pollutants, improving air quality. Attractive, tree -lined streets improve property values. In terms of biological resources, trees provide habitat for birds and other wildlife. The City of Santa Clarita maintains an Urban Forestry program as part of its Public Works Department. The Urban Forestry Division maintains all of the City's street, park, trail, and facility trees, while planting many more each year. The Division is responsible for the maintenance of 50,000 trees, reforestation, weed abatement, the Neighborhood Leaf Out Program, the Arbor Day celebration, and tree removal. Through its Neighborhood Leaf Out Program, the Division provides education and public outreach to encourage tree planting throughout the City. The Division also maintains recommended tree planting lists. Through these efforts, the City has been recognized as a Tree City USA award winner for many years. The City has long recognized the value of a healthy urban forest, and will continue to promote this program. Development Impacts on Biological Resources Urban development can have an impact on biological resources by reducing habitat and foraging grounds, increasing nighttime lighting and noise, causing air and water pollution, changing ambient air and water temperatures, introducing invasive species and household pets into native habitats, and generating off -road vehicle use, among other impacts. Although not all of these impacts can be reduced to insignificant levels within urbanized areas, it is possible to minimize adverse impacts on the natural environment through good planning and sustainable development practices. Several strategies for new development have been recommended by the U. S. Green Building Council as part of its LEED program. The (LEED) Green Building Rating System TM is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings. LEED promotes a whole -building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality. CO-35 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan With respect to minimizing impacts of new development on biological resources, LEED recommends the following measures: • Provide a high ratio of open space to development footprint to promote biodiversity. LEED recommends vegetated open space equal to 20 percent of the project's site area, which may include vegetated roof areas ("green roofs"). Pedestrian -oriented hardscape areas may also be included, provided they use permeable paving or include vegetated open space. Wetlands, vegetated swales, and ponds may also be included to meet open space requirements. Open space provides habitat for vegetation, which in turn provides habitat for local wildlife. Even small open spaces in urban areas can provide refuges for wildlife populations, which have become increasingly marginalized. Plants that specifically support local species such as insects and other pollinators can help sustain populations up the food chain. • Use vegetated open space to reduce the urban heat island effect, increase stormwater infiltration, and provide the human population on the site with a connection to the outdoors. • Provide connections between vegetated open space areas within a site and between adjacent sites; avoid isolated landscaped areas surrounded by paving to the extent possible. • Minimize nighttime lighting to the extent possible, while maintaining adequate security lighting. Outdoor lighting is necessary for illuminating connections between buildings and support facilities such as sidewalks, parking lots, and roadways. However, light trespass can affect the nocturnal ecosystem and light pollution limits night sky access. Establishing time limits and maximum illumination levels for nighttime hours when businesses are closed is recommended to cut light pollution. • Prohibit new development within 100 feet of any wetlands as defined by federal, state or local regulations, or within 50 feet of a water body, including lakes, rivers and streams; or within any areas identified as habitat for threatened or endangered species, including wildlife corridors. • For new development proposed on previously undeveloped sites ("greenfields"), perform a site survey to identify biological resources, and plan for resource protection in the site design. On sites where habitat areas are to be protected, establish disturbance boundaries during construction; delineate stockpiles, lay- down, recycling and disposal areas. Use paved areas for staging, and erect construction fencing around the drip line of existing trees to protect them from soil compaction by construction vehicles. • Minimize site disturbance to the extent feasible and restore previously degraded areas to their natural state. Preserve and enhance natural site elements, including water courses, trees and native vegetation, where possible. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-36 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Choose appropriate native or adapted plant materials, and prohibit invasive or noxious weed species. Native and adapted plants require minimal or no irrigation following establishment, do not require active maintenance such as mowing or chemical inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides, and provide habitat value and promote biodiversity through avoidance of monoculture plantings. Replace turf -grass with native or adapted plantings to promote biodiversity and habitat. • Reduce the amount of site area devoted to paving when not functional or necessary, and replace paving with landscaped areas. Use landscaping to shade buildings and impervious areas, decrease cooling loads and energy expenditures, and reduce the heat-island effect. The term heat island refers to urban air and surface temperatures higher than nearby rural areas. Many cities have air temperatures up to 10 degrees (Fahrenheit) warmer than the surrounding natural landscape. Heat islands form as cities replace natural landscape with pavement, buildings, and other infrastructure. The heat island effect can be lowered by reducing the amount of surface parking lots and by replacing heat -absorbing surfaces with plants, groundcover, small trees, and green roofs. Some cities have developed parking areas below green space to reduce the overall heat island effect and provide for greater pedestrian connectivity. Local landscape ordinances should be revised to avoid any landscape requirements that are not sustainable and horticulturally sound. "No lawns" should become the norm. Minimize erosion to protect habitats and reduce stress on natural water systems by preserving vegetation and limiting development on any slopes greater than 15 percent. Issues for biological resource protection within the planning area will continue to be the reduction of open space and habitat due to urbanization, the separation of habitat areas into disconnected, isolated islands, and other impacts of development. However, measures such as those listed above can be taken to make urban development less harmful to the natural environment. Policies have been included in this element to protect biological resources as described in this section. H. Cultural and Historical Resources Historical Overview of the Santa Clarita Valle The earliest physical evidence of human occupation in the Upper Santa Clara River area dates from 7,000 to 4,000 years ago, and was recovered from two sites near Vasquez Rocks. The identity of the area's first inhabitants is unknown. The Tataviam peoples, Uto-Aztecan speakers of Shoshonean descent, began to reach the planning area in approximately A. D. 450. They were described as a distinct linguistic group when they were first encountered in 1776 by Spanish explorer Pedro Fages. The Tataviam lived primarily on the upper reaches of the Santa Clara River, east of Piru Creek and extending from the Antelope Valley to the San Gabriel Mountains. Archaeological data indicate that subsistence patterns and ritual practices were similar to neighboring Chumash and Gabrielino culture groups; these groups were hunter -gatherers, subsisting on acorns, yucca, juniper berries, seeds, and small game. Tataviam village sites with known names were located CO-37 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan at San Francisquito, Piru, Camulos, Castaic Reservoir, Piru Creek, Elizabeth Lake, and in the Newhall environs; additional archaeological sites have been recorded along the Santa Clara River and Vasquez Rocks. The Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) has identified three sites of Native American cultural significance near the Santa Clara River including CA- LAN-361, CA-LAN-366, and CA-LAN-367. Many of the place names in the valley, such as Castaic, Piru, Camulos, and Hasley, reflect a Tataviam linguistic origin. One site of extreme cultural significance, Bowers Cave near Val Verde, yielded one of the most significant assemblages of American Indian religious and ceremonial artifacts ever found in North America. Discovered in 1884 by two local boys, many of the cave's cultural artifacts were removed, but most found their way to the Native American collection in the Peabody Museum of American Ethnology at Harvard University. Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portola's chronicles of his 1769 expedition from San Diego to Monterey provide the first European documentation of the Santa Clarita region. Father Juan Crespi, who accompanied Portola, wrote that the peaceful Tataviam offered them food and respite. The expedition passed north through the San Fernando Valley to Newhall and on to the Castaic Junction area, then west along the Santa Clara River to San Buenaventura, and from there north to Monterey. The trail blazed by Portola became known as El Camino Viejo (The Old Road). In 1772, Pedro Fages, commander of the Presidio of San Diego, traveled through Castaic Junction and Soledad Canyon in search of army deserters. After establishment of the Mission San Fernando in 1797, much of the Santa Clarita Valley was used by the Mission for ranching. Known as the Estancia de San Francisco Xavier, the estancia buildings were constructed by Tataviam workers in 1804 near the confluence of Castaic Creek and the Santa Clara River. In later decades the buildings fell into disrepair and were vandalized; in 1937 their remnants were bulldozed into the ground. The archaeologically rich midden remains a significant and protected site. Following the establishment of the Mission San Fernando, the native peoples of the Santa Clarita Valley were deprived of their lands and relocated to the mission grounds where they were baptized and forced to work in the mission fields and vineyards. At the Missions San Fernando and San Gabriel, they intermarried with other similarly dislocated tribes. With the Mexican Revolution of the 1820s and 1830s came secularization of the former mission lands. In 1839 the Rancho San Francisco, comprising 48,000 acres of the Santa Clarita Valley, was granted to Ignacio Del Valle, mayor of Los Angeles and later a state legislator. However, falling cattle prices and financial woes brought the ranch land back on the market in the 1860's, where it again changed hands several times before being purchased on January 15, 1875 by Henry Mayo Newhall. The first documented discovery of gold in California occurred in Placerita Canyon in 1842, near what is now called the Oak of the Golden Dream. Nearly 1,300 pounds of gold was retrieved from Placerita Canyon between 1842 and 1847. Anecdotal evidence has been found indicating that placer gold mining occurred in Hasley Canyon and other areas of the Valley as early as the 1820's. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-38 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Various mineral resources discovered throughout the Valley spurred development of mining camps and settlements. San Francisquito Canyon was one of the first canyons to be mined and settled. By 1860 copper was being mined in Soledad Canyon, and a small town developed near the head of Williamson's Pass. Both copper and gold bearing quartz veins were mined into the 20th Century, although the rush was over by about 1875. In addition to gold, the local canyons yielded silver, lead, borates, manganese, titanium, gravel, agates and other gemstones and minerals. The upper Santa Clarita Valley was the first location of oil drilling in Southern California, after oil seeps were discovered by American settlers in Pico Canyon in 1865. (The seeps had been known for centuries to the Tataviam, who had used the raw asphaltum for waterproofing and other purposes.) Mexican General Andres Pico and other investors sold their oil fields in Pico Canyon in 1875, along with the oil company they had formed to extract and process the oil. Their California Star Oil Company (CSO) later became part of the Standard Oil Company of California. CSO's new superintendent, Charles Alexander "Alex" Mentry, laid the groundwork for an oil town that became known as Mentryville, after deepening an older well, Pico No. 4, to produce a "gusher' on September 26, 1876. By the 1880s there were nearly 100 families living in Mentryville, which included Mentry's 13-room mansion known as the "Big House." Pico No. 4 became the longest -running oil well in the world before it was taken out of service in 1990, having pumped crude oil almost continuously for 114 years. In 1976 the well site was dedicated as a California State Historic Landmark, and a plaque now marks the historic oil well's location. Although the Big House, the 1885 schoolhouse and certain other buildings remain, most of Mentryville's early homes and company structures were dismantled or removed in the early 20th Century, ravaged by fire, or destroyed by the 1994 earthquake. The site is now overseen by the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, which has begun renovation of the Big House. The completion of the Southern Pacific Railroad through the area in 1876, along with the development of the Pico oil field and construction of the Pioneer Oil Refinery in the mid-1870s, spurred an oil boom in the Valley. Pico Canyon oil flowed to the refinery via a pipe, and was refined into kerosene, lamp oil, naphtha and other petroleum derivatives. The remnants of the Pioneer Oil Refinery, which was the first viable oil refinery in the State, were damaged in the 1994 earthquake. Now owned by the City of Santa Clarita, along with 4.5 acres of land donated by Chevron Oil, the site is being evaluated for partial restoration as a historical depiction of an early oil refinery. American explorer John C. Fremont, who would later challenge Abraham Lincoln for the Republican nomination for U.S. president, arrived at Castaic Junction with his "Buckskin Battalion" in 1847, following the future route of SR-126 from Ventura. After camping for two days in the Santa Clarita Valley, he crossed into the San Fernando Valley near the present alignment of Sierra Highway. Near the current Universal Studios Hollywood, he accepted the surrender of California from General Andres Pico. Fremont's crossing point through the Santa Susana Mountains occurred at what became known as Fremont Pass, and is now known as Newhall Pass. CO-39 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan In 1854, Phineas Banning made a 30-foot cut in the pass to allow the first stagecoach through. The Butterfield Overland Stage took the "Great Southern" route from St. Louis to San Francisco over Fremont Pass from 1858 until the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861. In 1863, under a construction contract awarded by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, General Edward F. Beale's workers cut a 90-foot deep passageway through the pass between the present alignments of SR-14 and Sierra Highway to improve the roadway. Beale also constructed a toll house when the pass was widened, and collected toll for the right of passage for 22 years before the County halted the practice. Beale's Cut was a vital route that served the Southern California area until it was bypassed by the Newhall Tunnel in 1910. By 1915, the Ridge Route extended from downtown Los Angeles north through the Newhall Tunnel and into the San Joaquin Valley. In 1875 most of the Rancho San Francisco was purchased by Henry Mayo Newhall, a San Francisco entrepreneur. Much of the Valley's history from that time has been linked to the activities of Newhall and the company formed by his heirs, The Newhall Land and Farming Company. When Henry Newhall purchased the Rancho, he knew the Southern Pacific Railroad intended to lay tracks north out of Los Angeles to join with the Central Pacific and its connection to the Transcontinental Railroad. A rail route through his property would increase its value, so he sold an alignment to the Southern Pacific for $1 and a square -mile townsite to the railroad's development company for another $1. Three months after Newhall's land purchase, the Southern Pacific began tunneling through the mountains and the San Fernando and Santa Clarita Valleys. Built with Chinese labor, at 6,940 feet the San Fernando (Railroad) Tunnel was the third -longest tunnel in the United States when it was completed on July 27, 1876. As the Southern Pacific extended track to the north, the Central Pacific was coming south to meet it. The two companies joined track near Lang Station in Canyon Country in a "golden spike" ceremony on September 5, 1876. The following month, on October 18, 1876, the Southern Pacific began subdividing the town of Newhall. Initially the town was located at Bouquet Junction, in what would later become Saugus, named for Henry Newhall's home town in Massachusetts. Little more than a year later, in January and February 1878, the town moved three miles south to its present location at Old Town Newhall, probably because of better water availability from a natural artesian spring. The Pioneer Oil Refinery, which handled the oil piped from Pico Canyon and was initially set up along the wagon route in the Newhall Pass, moved to present-day Pine Street in Railroad Canyon next to the new train tracks. The earliest productive refinery on the West Coast, it operated until 1888. A unique feature of Santa Clarita's historical setting is the extent of early filming in the Valley, due to its proximity to Hollywood and the presence of distinctive topographic and geologic features used as settings for early Western films. The community of Newhall contains many notable Hollywood movie sets and is the site of the Walk of Western Stars. Some of the Western relics in downtown Newhall include the Tom Mix cottages, used as housing for the early motion picture industry; the American Theater (originally the Tumbleweed Theater) designed by Charles S. Lee and funded in large part by Actor William S. Hart in 1940; Melody Ranch (aka Placeritos Ranch and Monogram Ranch), built in the early 1920s and owned from 1952 to 1990 by actor Gene Autry and used as a location for hundreds of Western films, television series and commercials; and the Walt Disney Co.'s Golden Oak Ranch in nearby Placerita Canyon. Heritage Junction on Main Street has been set aside for the preservation of several local historic structures. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-40 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space William S. Hart Park and Museum contains the 1927 retirement home of silent screen cowboy star William S. Hart, along with original furnishings, Western art, mementos of early Hollywood, and American Indian artifacts. The home and its contents were left to the people of Los Angeles County by Hart upon his death in 1946. Today it is a part of the Los Angeles County Natural History Museum system. In addition to the buildings, the site contains the 260-acre Horseshoe Ranch property, operated by the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, and features picnic facilities, nature trails, and ranch animals, including bison initially donated in 1962 by Walt Disney. Another early Western movie actor's home that has been preserved as a County -operated museum within the planning area is that of Harry Carey Sr. and his actress -wife Olive Carey, who arrived in San Francisquito Canyon in 1916. Their son, actor Harry Carey Jr., was born at the Saugus ranch in 1921. The Santa Clarita Valley was also the location of the second -worst disaster in California history. In 1908 the City of Los Angeles obtained rights to the watershed of the Owens Valley. Under direction of William Mulholland, chief engineer for the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, the project was expanded in the 1920's into San Francisquito Canyon, where the St. Francis Dam was completed in 1926. From there the aqueduct traversed the eastern part of Newhall Ranch and crossed over San Fernando Pass to the spillway above the San Fernando Reservoir. In 1928 the concrete dam failed. The resulting flood of the river valley on March 12 and 13 caused at least 450 deaths and destroyed 990 homes and large areas of farmland. It was America's worst civil engineering failure of the 20th Century. In 1932-34, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power built a new earthen dam in Bouquet Canyon. Identification of Historical Sites The Valley's historical heritage has been preserved in numerous historical sites throughout the planning area. When updated in 1999, the City's General Plan listed dozens of significant historical properties, sites and landmarks in the planning area, which have been included and updated in this element (see Table CO-1 and Exhibit CO-6). Of these sites, one is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and 13 are recognized by the State of California. The remaining sites are designated as City Points of Historical Interest. In addition to the listed historic sites, a literature search indicates that almost 70 Native American archeological sites have been identified near the Santa Clara River within the planning area. Native American settlements and ceremonial sites were often located in river valleys. Development in proximity to the River and its major tributaries may impact Native American heritage sites, and should be evaluated for historic resources as part of the review process. Historic Preservation Efforts The Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society was formed in 1975 to identify, preserve and protect the unique historical sites and structures throughout the Valley. The City and County have both worked cooperatively, along with the Historical Society, to protect significant sites. For example, the County has provided a portion of Hart Park to be set aside as "Heritage Junction," and the City and Historical Society have cooperated on relocating structures to that location for renovation and preservation. The County has also been instrumental in setting aside Harry Carey Ranch Historic District and providing funding to preserve the Placerita Canyon Park and Nature Center, where a historic cabin has been preserved and is open to the public. The City has worked cooperatively with the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority to preserve artifacts related to the oil history and cultural CO-41 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan lifeways of Mentryville in Pico Canyon. In addition, the City routinely conditions commercial and residential developers to halt work in the event that cultural resources are encountered during grading. The City of Santa Clarita is evaluating the adoption of a Historic Preservation Ordinance, and will pursue completion of this ordinance as a General Plan objective. The City has also adopted the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan, with architectural guidelines that acknowledge the importance of the historic buildings within the Downtown Newhall planning area. The City has consistently involved the Historic Society in review of development proposals in areas containing historic sites and resources, and has required projects to mitigate impacts to historic resources as a condition of development approval. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-42 \ } e \ Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Map Legend Map Reference Number Cultural or Historical Site 1 22502-22510 Fifth Street 2 22506 Sixth Street 3 22614 Ninth Street 4 22621 Thirteenth Street 5 24148 Pine Street 6 24238 Main Street 7 24244 Walnut Street 8 24247-24251 Main Street 9 24287 Newhall Avenue 10 24307 Railroad Avenue 11 24311-24313 Main Street 12 24522 Spruce Street 13 Asistencia/Rancho San Francisco 14 Beale's Cut 15 Bowers Cave 16 Harry Carey Ranch 17 Heritage Junction Historic Park • Newhall Ranch House • Mitchell Adobe Schoolhouse • Kingsburry House • Callahan's School House • Ramona Chapel • Edison House • Pardee House/Good Templars • Saugus Depot 18 La Puerta 19 Lang Station 20 Lyon Station/Eternal Valley 21 Melody Ranch 22 Mentryville 23 Oak of the Golden Dream 24 Old Ridge Route 25 Pico #4 Oil Well 26 Pioneer Oil Refiner 27 Railroad Tunnel 28 St. Francis Dam Disaster Site 29 Sterling Borax Works in Tick Canyon 30 Vasquez Rocks 31 Walker Cabin 32 William S. Hart Park and Museum DRAFT May, 2011 CO-44 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Table CO-1 contains a listing of known sites and structures in the Santa Clarita Valley that have been identified as having historical or cultural significance based on building characteristics, events that took place at the site, or the site's role in the historical or cultural development of the community. The list is a compilation of sites that were known at the time this document was prepared. In order to ascertain whether additional sites exist within the community that should be protected due to their historical or cultural significance, the City will continue to identify any additional sites that should be added to the list. Table CO-1: Historical Resources in the Santa Clarita Valley Planning Area Site Historic Significance Oak of the Golden Dream Site of the first discovery of gold in California in 1842 Placerita Canyon State Historic Landmark #168 Pioneer Oil Refinery Oldest continuously operated oil refinery in the world; first 23552 Pine Street, Newhall refinery in State, producing illuminating oil. Donated to City in 1998, restored in 1930 and 1950s and 1976, but damaged in 1994 earthquake. State Historic Landmark #172 Pico #4 First successful oil well in California and longest -producing 27201 West Pico Canyon commercial oil well in the world; developed in 1876 by California Star Oil Company, a predecessor of Standard Oil Company of California. Located in Mentryville/Pico Canyon. National Register of Historic Places State Historic Landmark #516 Mentryville Oil boom town that grew around Pico #4 for derrick workers. 27201 West Pico Canyon Four buildings remain, and many others have been relocated to Newhall. Located in Santa Clarita Woodlands Park, maintained by Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, and open to the public. State Historic Landmark #516-2 Asistencia/Rancho San The Santa Clara River Valley was a part of Mission San Francisco Fernando in 1797. A granary and estancia (outpost) were West of Magic Mountain established on this site in 1804. Historic plaque located at Parkway near SR-126 Castaic Junction. State Historic Landmark #556 Lang Station A health spa, hotel, and freight station were established on this East of Lang Station Road site in 1871. In 1876, a golden spike was driven connecting San Francisco and Los Angeles by rail. Only relics of the station remain. State Historic Landmark #590 Lyons Station/Eternal Valley A stage stop was built here in 1852. It was used by the Cemetery Butterfield Overland Stage line from 1857 to 1861 as a resting 23287 Sierra Highway, place for soldiers and camel caravans from Fort Tejon. Many Newhall pioneers are buried in the Eternal Valley Cemetery. State Historic Landmark #688 St. Francis Dam Disaster Site On March 12, 1928, the dam, which was a part of the Los DWP Power Plant 2 Angeles Aqueduct system, collapsed, spilling more than 12 San Francisquito Canyon billion gallons of water into the Valley and killing at least 450 Road people. State Historic Landmark #919 CO-45 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Site Historic Significance 22621 Thirteenth Street Single-family dwelling built in February 1873 for Adam Newhall Malinzewski at Lyons Station; moved by J. O. Newhall to San Fernando Road in Newhall about 1879. At the turn of the century it was acquired by the Frew family, who were pioneer blacksmiths, and later Ed Jauregui, who moved it to its present location. City Point of Historical Interest 24148 Pine Street Single-family dwelling constructed in 1878 by California Star Newhall Oil Company as a guest house for visiting executives and politicians. Standard Oil later sold it to Josh Woodbridge, who lived there until his death in 1950. City Point of Historical Interest 24522 Spruce Street Commercial structure once known as the "hoosegow". Initially Newhall planned as a wooden structure on this site in 1888, bids for a jailhouse were opened February 20, 1906, resulting in the construction of this building in the Spanish Mission style. It served as a jail/constable's office until 1926, when a sheriff's substation opened. The structure still retains the original cell doors and barred windows. City Point of Historical Interest 24311-24313 Main Street Commercial structure in historic downtown Newhall built by Newhall Thomas M. Frew in 1910 for his blacksmith shop. Originally built in Mission Revival style, the building was expanded in 1924 when his son, Thomas Frew Jr, modified the structure into a welding and machine shop. In 1935, concurrent with the widening of San Fernando Road (Main Street), it was remodeled into its present Spanish Mission style. City Point of Historical Interest 22502-22510 Fifth Street Commercial structure used by Newhall Ice Company. The Newhall structure was built in 1922 by Fred Lamkin as a warehouse and storage yard. Lamkin came to Newhall in 1917, opening a garage facing San Fernando Road. Shortly after construction the warehouse was converted into an ice house, which is still in operation. City Point of Historical Interest 24244 Newhall Ave Church building erected in 1940 under the direction of pastor Newhall Leroy Hux, for First Baptist Church of Newhall. The building was later used by several religious groups, and is now known as Queen of Angels Catholic Church. City Point of Historical Interest 22616 Ninth Street Single-family dwelling built circa 1908 as a residence for Ray Newhall Osborne, Superintendent of the Sterling Borax Works in Tick Canyon. The house was originally located in the small mining town of Lang in Canyon Country, and was moved to its present location in 1928. City Point of Historical Interest DRAFT May, 2011 CO-46 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Site Historic Significance 24287 Newhall Avenue Single-family dwelling, commonly known as the Erwin house, Newhall built in the California bungalow style around 1910. Unusual in design, the structure is one of the last remaining bungalows in Santa Clarita. City Point of Historical Interest 22506 Sixth Street Commercial building originally erected on San Fernando Road Newhall by Albert Swall in 1902. Swall also developed other commercial properties along San Fernando Road to establish a business district. In 1925 the structure was moved to its present location. The building was later used as the circulation office for the Newhall Signal newspapers from the 1960's until 1986. City Point of Historical Interest 24238 Main Street Commercial building constructed by the Sheriff's department in Newhall 1926 as Substation #6. The building housed a company of eight Sheriff's deputies commanded by Captain Jeb Steward, and served as the community's second jail after closing of the old constabulary/jail building on Spruce Street. The Newhall Signal newspaper used the building from 1968-1986. City Point of Historical Interest 24307 Railroad Avenue Commercial building commonly known as "Ye Olde Newhall Courthouse." The Newhall Masonic Building Company, Ltd. was incorporated in 1931 and completed this two-story project in 1932. The County Courthouse occupied the ground floor, and the Masonic Lodge the second story. Lumber from the old Mayhue building was later used, including the floor of the Hap - A -Lan dance hall which previously occupied the site. The County relocated the court to Valencia and the first floor was renovated into office uses. City Point of Historical Interest 24247-24251 Main Street Seven commercial structures commonly known as the Tom Mix Newhall Cottages. The small building at 24247 was built by Halsey W. Russell in 1919. In 1922 the other six cottages were added, forming a motor court catering to drivers on the old Ridge Route. These structures were also used by people in the motion picture industry for lodging during filming in the area. Tom Mix used one as a dressing room on several occasions, and the area was known as a "Mixville" — earlier albeit smaller than his primary Mixville studio in Glendale. City Point of Historical Interest William S. Hart Park and The mansion on this property was built for western film actor Museum William S. Hart in 1927, and Hart filled it with Western art and artifacts. Many Western movies were filmed here. The William S. Hart Residence, Bunk House, Garage and Chauffeur's Quarters, Pool House, Gate Tower, Sundeck and Tea Room, Barns and Pet Cemeteries are all eligible as contributors to a district for listing in the National Register of Historical Places. The property is currently listed as a State Point of Historical Interest #564 CO-47 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Site Historic Significance Heritage Junction Historic Park City Point of Historical Interest located within William S. Hart 24151 Newhall Avenue Park, and containing the following structures: Newhall 1. Newhall Ranch House 1. Built around 1865 as a small house with a basement, this building served as the headquarters of the Rancho San Francisco, the original land grant comprising 48,000 acres of the Santa Clara River Valley. This ranch was owned after 1875 by Henry Mayo Newhall and was administered by his son George, who expanded the Ranch House in 1893. Originally located in sight of the Estancia de San Francisco Xavier (on what is now Six Flags Magic Mountain property), the structure was relocated to Heritage Junction in 1990. 2. Mitchell Adobe 2. Colonel Thomas Finley Mitchell, an officer of the Mexican - Schoolhouse American War, homesteaded Sulphur Springs in the 1860's, building an adobe that served as his family's home. One room of the adobe was used as a schoolhouse for the local children, the first in the area and home of the second oldest school district in Los Angeles County. In 1986 the adobe was rescued from destruction and moved brick -by -brick to Heritage Junction, where it was rebuilt. 3. Kingsburry House 3. This house was built in 1878 as a residence at 8th Street and San Fernando Road (Main Street). In 1883 it was occupied by Lyman Steward, a founder of the Union Oil Company. In 1911 it was moved to Walnut Street near Market. It is a one- story Colonial Revival cottage with a porch supported by four turned columns. This house is largely intact with original features, including double -hung windows. It was moved to Heritage Junction in 1987, and decorated in historic style by the Questers. 4. Callahan's Schoolhouse 4. This 1927 structure originated at Robert E. Callahan's Western town/amusement area that operated in the 1920's in Santa Monica as the Mission Village, and was relocated to Mint Canyon (Saugus) when the freeway was built in 1963 and renamed Callahan's Old West. The structure was built to house six antique school desks which came from a mining camp in Vallejo, along with a speaker's podium and blackboard representative of a one -room schoolhouse. The building was donated by Callahan's widow, Marion, and moved to Heritage Junction in 1987. 5. Ramona Chapel 5. Designed by noted composer Carrie Jacobs Bond, this chapel was based on the chapel at Rancho Camulos made famous in Helen Hunt Jackson's novel Ramona. It was built in 1926 as part of Robert E. Callahan's Mission Village in Santa Monica, later operated as Callahan's Old West, and was relocated in 1963 due to freeway construction. Wall paintings DRAFT May, 2011 CO-48 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Site Historic Significance in the chapel are by Frank Tinney Johnson. The altar is said to be over 200 years old, and the wooden pews date back to 1858. The chapel was donated by Callahan's widow, Marion, and moved to Heritage Junction in 1987. 6. Edison House 6. This Bavarian -style structure was built in 1919 and modified in 1925 as part of a group of houses provided for Edison workers assigned to the Saugus substation. When the St. Francis Dam broke and flooded the area in 1928, these structures escaped damage. After years of use by Edison employees, the cottages were acquired by Newhall Land and Farming Company, which demolished six of the cottages. This house, being in the best condition, was preserved and relocated to Heritage Junction in 1989. 7. Pardee House/Good 7. Built in 1890 on Pine Street in Newhall by Henry Clay Templars Needham, a prominent orator and later a prohibitionist 24275 Walnut Street, Newhall candidate for president, as a Good Templar's Lodge. Moved in 1893 by Ed Pardee, local oilman and police constable, who expanded the structure and used it as his residence. The structure was later used as a telephone exchange by Pacific Bell; as a teen center by the Santa Clarita Valley Boys Club; as the Newhall -Saugus -Valencia Chamber of Commerce office; and as a movie set by Tom Mix in the 1920's. Donated to the historical society and moved to Heritage Junction in 1992. State Point of Historical Interest 8. Saugus Depot 8. The last remaining railroad station in the Santa Clarita Newhall, Hart Park Site Valley, this structure was built in 1887 by Southern Pacific Railroad when completing the spur line to Ventura. The station was used until 1978, and was moved to Heritage Junction at Hart Park in 1980, where it is used by the SCV Historical Society as a general history museum. Next to the station is a historic Mogul steam locomotive, built in New York in 1900 and donated to the Historical Society by Gene Autry in 1982. City Point of Historical Interest Beale's Cut Stagecoach Pass In 1862-63, General Edward Beale improved the wagon route Adjacent to Sierra Highway through the present-day Newhall Pass between the current near Newhall Avenue locations of SR-14 and Sierra Highway to a depth of 90 feet. Newhall Beale installed a toll booth at this location, which he continued to operate for 20 years. The Newhall Tunnel, part of the Ridge Route, bypassed Beale's Cut in 1910. State Point of Historic Interest #1006 CO-49 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Site Historic Significance Old Ridge Route First opened in 1915, the narrow, curvy 30-mile Ridge Route is a 20-foot wide roadway, carved out using horse-drawn dirt scrapers that zigzagged across the ridges of the western San Gabriel Mountains. The road was named for the way it followed the ridgeline of the mountains. Paved in 1919, the Ridge Route Highway, officially named the Castaic-Tejon Route, became the first direct road connecting Los Angeles and Bakersfield. Often referred to as the original Grapevine route, the nickname stems from the fact that early wagoners had to hack their way through thick patches of Cimarron grapevines that inhabited "La Canada de Las Uvas" ("Canyon of the Grapes"). Without this road, California may have become two separate states. In 1933 the State opened the Ridge Route Alternate, a three -lane road with fewer curves that would eventually be designated California Route 99. This alternate was widened to four lanes in the 1950s, then realigned and rebuilt in the 1960s as a high-speed interstate freeway. The original Ridge Route was abandoned, but parts of the old road are still visible north of Castaic. National Register of Historic Places Melody Ranch Historic ranch set used for western films. The buildings were Placerita Canyon Road and originally developed by pioneer filmmakers Ernie Hickson and Oak Creek Canyon Road, Trem Carr about 1922 and consisted of authentic Western Newhall buildings located at the present location of Golden Oak Ranch. In 1936 the buildings were moved to their current location. The site at that time was also known as the Monogram Ranch, as so many of the company's Westerns were filmed there. From 1949 to 1951 the site was the scene of Newhall's Old West 4tn of July celebration, when it became "Slippery Gulch." Purchased by western actor Gene Autry in 1952, the site was renamed Melody Ranch and used for many early television programs, including the long -running "Gunsmoke." Most of the structures burned down in a valleywide brush fire on August 26, 1962; however, the trademark Spanish -style arches and parts of the main street and Mexican village are still intact. In 1990 the ranch was purchased by the Veluzat family of Newhall and rebuilt. Today it remains a working movie ranch and the site of the City's annual Cowboy Festival. City Point of Historical Interest DRAFT May, 2011 CO-50 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Site Historic Significance Harry Carey Ranch Historic This complex contains historic buildings associated with District western film actor Harry Carey, who purchased the property for 28515 San Francisquito a residence and filming in 1916. Nine buildings of the complex Canyon Road comprise the Harry Carey Historic District. Harry and Olive Carey had the ranch house and its various outbuildings built during the 1920s and 1930s, a period when they and their children lived at the ranch. Carey's 20-year career included more than 200 films. In 2005, the County accepted the donation from the property owner as part of the approval process for an adjacent housing development. The significance of the district is based not only on its role in the early film industry, but on the character and quality of the ranch buildings and the main residence known as the Tesoro Adobe. The property is maintained as a museum by the County of Los Angeles. The property, currently known as the Tesoro Adobe Historic Park, is not officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it has been determined to be eligible for this status. Railroad Tunnel Completed in 1876 by the Southern Pacific Railroad with Newhall Pass Chinese immigrant labor, the 6,940-foot tunnel was the third longest tunnel in the world at that time. The tunnel is still used for freight rail and Metrolink commuter rail service. California Register of Historical Resources. Bowers Cave Discovery site of significant Native American cultural artifacts, Near Val Verde the cave is located at the entry to Chi uita Canyon Landfill. La Puerta The "door of The Old Road" is located in the southwestern Elsmere Canyon portion of Elsmere Canyon. Identified as both a natural physical and visual resource, La Puerta also figures as a significant anthropological, military, religious, and cultural resource in the planning area. La Puerta served as a geographic landmark for local Native Americans, Spanish explorers, and American pioneers crossing the Valley. Walker Cabin Built by Frank Walker around 1920, the cabin served as the Placerita Canyon Natural Area family's second home for about 10 years. The cabin has been fully restored and refurnished as part of the County -maintained Visitor's Center. CO-51 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Site Historic Significance Borax Mine In the spring of 1905 gold prospectors Henry Shepard and Tick Canyon Louis Ebbenger found a rich deposit of borates in Tick Canyon. They sold the claim to Thomas Thorkildson and Steven Mather for $30,000. Sterling Borax Works was formed to mine the claim, and began operations in 1908. A large mill was constructed north of what is now Davenport Road, and a narrow-gauge train line connected the mine to Lang Station, six miles away. Borax was hauled along this rail line by engine "Sterling No. 2" for 70 years. The mining camp, called Lang, included a boarding house, offices, company store, a dozen residences, corral, and warehouses. The Sterling Mine was never a big producer, generating about 20,000 tons per year of borates during peak production. Borax Consolidated, a forerunner of U.S. Borax, bought the Sterling Mine in 1911 for $1.8 million. For many years, the corporate headquarters were located in Valencia. Vasquez Rocks This 745-acre park of unique geological rock formations is Agua Dulce located near Agua Dulce Springs. The park features a history trail tour about the Tataviam Indians and early Spanish settlers. Located on the San Andreas fault, the sandstone rock formations were uplifted during the Cenozoic era, approximately 25 million years ago. In 1873-74, one of California's most notorious bandits, Tiburcio Vasquez, used these rocks as a hiding place to evade law enforcement. His name has since been associated with the geologic feature. National Register of Historic Places Item #72000228, 1972 Sources: Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society, State of California Office of Historic Preservation, The Signal, and City of Santa Clarita Scenic Resources The Value of Scenic Resources For many people, the primary sensory experience of a place is visual. A community's appearance and scenic resources contribute to a sense of place and influence residents' perceptions about their quality of life. Memorable and distinctive images provide residents with spatial orientation and identity, heightening their feeling of belonging to the place, and instilling a sense of civic pride. "Aesthetic value" refers to the perception of the natural beauty of an area, as well as the elements that create or enhance its visual quality. While aesthetic value is subjective, it is one of the elements that contribute to people's experience of an area. Most communities identify scenic resources as an important asset, although what is considered "scenic" may vary according to its environmental setting. For example, a valley community has distinctive scenic resources that differentiate it from a coastal or mountain community. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-52 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space "Scenic resources" can include natural open spaces, topographic formations, and landscapes that contribute to a high level of visual quality. These are significant resources that can be maintained and enhanced to promote a positive image in the community. Many people associate natural landforms and landscapes with scenic resources, such as lakes, rivers and streams, mountain meadows, and oak woodlands. These areas, generally felt by residents to possess natural beauty, provide a positive visual experience and help to define the aesthetic character of an area. Scenic resources can also include man-made open spaces and the built environment, such as parks, trails, nature preserves, sculpture gardens, and similar features. "Viewsheds" constitute the range of vision in which scenic resources may be observed. They are defined by physical features that frame the boundaries or context of one or more scenic resources. A region's topography can lend aesthetic value through the creation of public view corridors of ridgelines, and through the visual backdrop created by mountains and hillsides. Viewsheds and scenic vistas may include views of both natural and built environments, and are also considered important scenic resources. Scenic resources in the Santa Clarita Valley are described below and shown on Exhibit CO-7 Scenic Mountains and Canyons Due to its diverse topography, including mountain backdrops, hillsides and ridgelines, canyons and streams, and a broad river valley, the planning area contains a wide range of scenic views and resources. Natural areas range from grasslands to forest, contributing to the variety of scenic experiences. Within the built environment, greenbelts and parkways, trail systems, and parks provide scenic amenities. The mountains surrounding the Valley provide a sense of form and containment. Well-defined ridgelines, slopes and canyons provide a visual backdrop to the urban environment, create a sense of place for each neighborhood or district, and provide opportunities for residents throughout the Valley to experience the natural environment. Ridgelines project from the lower foothills of the San Gabriel and Sierra Pelona mountain ranges to the Valley floor. The City and County have designated specific ridgelines and established land use policies designed to preserve the views of these ridgelines, as described in the Land Use Element. Sloping from the ridgelines are numerous canyons that give local identity to neighborhoods within the planning area. These foothill and canyon zones are important scenic resources that, because of inherent slope constraints, have remained undeveloped and support a variety of natural habitats. Major scenic canyon areas are described below. • Placerita Canyon, running east and west in the southerly portion of the planning area, is characterized by shaded oak groves, a seasonal stream lined with cottonwoods, willows and sycamores, sandstone formations, and many other plant and animal communities. Its historic "Oak of the Golden Dream" is the site of California's first gold discovery in 1842, and is a designated State Historic Landmark. The Canyon contains a seasonal waterfall and hiking trails, including a trail leading to the top of the Santa Clara Divide in the San Gabriel Mountains. From this vantage point one can view the entire Santa Clarita Valley to the north and the San Fernando Valley to the south, with long-range views beyond. The Placerita State Park and Nature Center is located within the canyon. CO-53 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan • Whitney Canyon is located at the intersection of Sierra Highway and Newhall Avenue, just east of SR-14, and serves as the gateway to Angeles National Forest and the Rim of the Valley Trail Corridor. Due to its location between Elsmere and Placerita Canyons, Whitney Canyon is the middle link for the continuation of the Rim of the Valley Trail Corridor and the natural wildlife corridor through these canyons into Towsley Canyon and the Santa Clarita Woodlands. The canyon area contains oak forests, waterfalls, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and a riparian watershed area; 442 acres are publicly owned for preservation as natural open space, through a partnership between the City and a conservation authority. • Elsmere Canyon lies within the Angeles National Forest, near the intersection of Sierra Highway and Newhall Avenue, east of SR-14. Encompassing 2,700 acres, about half the canyon area is within the National Forest. Like other canyons in the planning area, Elsmere Canyon has served as a popular film site for western movies. A proposal to locate a landfill in the Canyon was withdrawn in 2004 based on public concerns about environmental quality, and in 2007 the property owner donated 400 acres of Elsmere Canyon to the Mountains and Recreation Conservation Authority for use as an open space preserve. Elsmere Canyon contains abundant wildlife, riparian habitat, coastal sage, and oak woodlands, and provides a wildlife corridor from the Santa Susana Mountains to the San Gabriel range. • Bouquet Canyon, in the northerly portion of the planning area, follows the course of Bouquet Creek, generally from Bouquet Reservoir south to the junction of Bouquet Canyon Road and Soledad Canyon Road. The canyon contains oak, willow, and sycamore groves, and the development character north of Saugus is rural. • San Francisquito Canyon runs north and south from Saugus to Green Valley, and is a rural environment supporting numerous horse ranches. The Canyon also contains sites of historic significance, such as the Harry Carey Historic Ranch. • Sand Canyon, located in the eastern portion of the planning area, runs northward from the steep slopes in the Angeles National Forest to the Santa Clara River floodplain. The character of the canyon ranges from heavy woodland to large, rustic rural estates with abundant trees. Views from the upper reaches of the canyon include the valley floor. • Pico Canyon, located in the northern portion of the Santa Clarita Woodlands Park in the western portion of the planning area, has been used extensively for oil extraction. The canyon was once occupied by Mentryville, an oil boomtown, and now contains valley and coast live oaks and views of the valley floor. The Mentryville historic site is contained within a State Park. • Towsley Canyon, located in the central portion of the Santa Clarita Woodlands Park, offers visitors a diverse natural area. Evidence of Native American heritage and early California oil interests are visible, along with spectacular geologic formations in "The Narrows". The Canyon contains numerous hiking trails along with Ed Davis Park. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-54 LO 0 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan • Tick Canyon lies in the Soledad Basin and is a tributary of the Santa Clara River channel, between Mint Canyon to the west and Tapia and Spring Canyons to the east. The Canyon was mined for various minerals during early settlement of the Valley. • Wiley Canyon forms a portion of the pass through which Interstate 5 passes as it enters the planning area from the south. The upper reaches of the canyon provide a sense of enclosure and include views of scrub -filled hillsides and stands of oak trees, while the northerly portion of the canyon offers expansive views of the Santa Clarita Valley. • Rice Canyon is located south of Wiley Canyon in the southwestern portion of the planning area, and offers views of rugged topography, coastal sage scrub, and stands of oak trees. Scenic Woodlands Protected forest land within the Angeles and Los Padres National Forests surround the planning area. Oak woodlands within these forests also extend into rural portions of the planning area, contributing to its rural and scenic character. Oak woodlands occur in scattered locations, primarily in the southerly portions of the planning area, and contain a diverse habitat including six species of oak. Cottonwood -willow riparian forests are found primarily along the Santa Clara River and its tributaries. Several of the County's Significant Ecological Areas (described above) have been adopted to protect oak woodland and cottonwood -willow riparian forest areas. Scenic Water Bodies Rivers and streams located in canyon bottoms provide scenic visual relief from urbanization as well as habitat for wildlife. The most significant river feature in the Valley is the Santa Clara River, which flows approximately 100 miles from its headwaters near Acton to the Pacific Ocean, and is one of only two natural river systems remaining in Southern California. The river flows east to west through a beautiful valley formed between the Santa Susana Mountains and the Transverse Ranges. Over 4,000 acres of high quality riparian habitat have been preserved in a natural state along the length of the River. Some of the major tributaries to the Upper Santa Clara River watershed include Castaic Creek, San Francisquito Canyon, Bouquet Canyon, Sand Canyon, Mint Canyon, Sand Canyon, Oak Springs Canyon, and the South Fork of the Santa Clara River. Newhall Creek, Placerita Creek, and Towsley Creek are tributaries to the South Fork. Castaic Lake, in the northern portion of the planning area, provides scenic views as well as recreational opportunities. The west side of the lake is surrounded by parkland and sandy beaches. Vasquez Rocks Vasquez Rocks County Park, located in the community of Agua Dulce west and north of SR-14, is an area of unique geologic formations that has been the site of hundreds of film shoots. Sculpted by earthquake activity along the Elkhorn fault, the rock formations were compressed, folded, and tilted up to a height of nearly 150 feet. Erosion has shaped the coarse -grained yellow sandstone into jutting and sweeping formations interspersed with shale and basalt layers. Vasquez Rocks are both a visual and historical landmark in the community. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-56 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Impacts of Development on Scenic Views Urban development has the potential to impair scenic resources if not carefully planned and controlled. Increasing development pressures could impact the quantity, quality, and variety of scenic vistas in the Valley through increased smog and light pollution, development on prominent ridgelines and hillsides, obstruction of scenic views along various roadways, signage and streetscape clutter, and aesthetically deficient development. Policies have been added to the element to address the goal of protecting the scenic and aesthetic beauty of the Valley. J. Air Resources The planning area is located within the South Coast Air Basin, a 6,745-square mile area encompassing Orange County and the non -desert portions of Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Riverside Counties. The regional climate within the Basin is semi -arid, characterized by warm summers, mild winters, infrequent seasonal rainfall, moderate daytime onshore breezes, and moderate humidity. Bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the west, and mountains to the north, east, and south, and with abundant sunshine and frequent inversions, the South Coast Air Basin is naturally conducive to the formation of air pollution. The Santa Clarita Valley is surrounded by the Santa Susana and San Gabriel mountain ranges on the south, east and west, and the Sierra Pelona Mountains on the north. The Valley lies in a transitional microclimatic zone of the Basin between the "valley marginal" and "high desert" climate types. Situated far enough from the ocean to escape coastal influences, the Valley's climate is generally mild with hot summers and sunny, warm winters. Average annual precipitation is about 13 inches, usually received between November and March, although some mountain areas south of the Valley may receive up to 24 inches of precipitation per year. Predominant wind patterns for the Santa Clarita Valley generally follow those of a mountain/valley regime. During the day, effects of the onshore flow reach inland and are enhanced by a localized up -valley or mountain pass wind. During the night, surface radiation cools the air in the mountains and hills, which flows down -valley producing a gentle "drainage wind." The predominant wind patterns in the Valley are broken by occasional winter storms and episodes of Santa Ana winds, which are strong winds that originate in the desert. Usually warm and often carrying dust and sand, the Santa Ana winds occur 5-10 times per year between September and March, and are particularly strong in mountain passes and at canyon outlets. Air pollution emissions within air basins are generated by stationary, mobile, and natural sources. Stationary sources are further classified as point or area sources, with point sources occurring at an identified location such as a manufacturing plant, and area sources comprised of multiple dispersed emissions such as use of paints, generators, lawn mowers, aerosol cans, and agriculture. Mobile sources refer to emissions from motor vehicles, aircraft, trains, and construction equipment. Air pollution can also be generated by the natural environment, such as when fine dust particles are pulled off the ground surface and suspended in the air during high winds. CO-57 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Both the federal and State governments have established ambient air quality standards for outdoor concentrations of various pollutants in order to protect public health. These standards have been set at levels that could be generally harmful to human health and welfare, and to protect the most sensitive persons from illness or discomfort with a margin of safety. The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) is responsible for bringing air quality within the South Coast Air Basin into conformity with these standards. SCAQMD defines typical sensitive receptors as residences, schools, playgrounds, child care centers, athletic facilities, hospitals, long-term health care facilities, rehabilitation centers, convalescent centers, and retirement homes. The air pollutants which are most relevant to air quality planning and regulation in the planning area include ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, fine suspended particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and lead. Ozone is a gas formed when volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides, byproducts of internal combustion engine exhaust, undergo photochemical reactions in the presence of sunlight. The most frequent transport route for ozone into the planning area is from the Los Angeles Basin and San Fernando Valley, borne by daily wind patterns through the Santa Clara River Valley. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion of fuels, with the highest concentrations generally found near congested transportation corridors. Major sources of fine suspended particulate matter are diesel engines, tires and brakes. The greatest source of air pollutants in the basin is from mobile sources. Because of its geographical location and meteorological conditions, the Santa Clarita Valley records some of the highest ozone readings in the Basin. The data indicate that local ozone concentrations usually result from pollutants transported from outside the valley. However, locally -generated air pollutants are also an issue for Valley residents, due to increased growth and automobile traffic. Localized carbon monoxide concentrations are found at congested intersections, especially in winter. Concentrations of fine airborne particulates result from locally generated emissions, such as increased truck traffic. Stationary sources include oil and gas producers and industrial uses. Land use patterns and the density of development directly affect the amount of air pollution that is generated within a community. Land uses that are segregated increase the number of motor vehicle trips and associated air pollutant emissions, because it is inconvenient or impossible for residents to walk or bicycle between destinations, or public transit is not available. Higher density communities that mix residential with commercial, business, and employment uses are designed to reduce reliance on motor vehicle use, or reduce the trip length and frequency needed. In addition, communities in which the ratio of jobs to housing units is not balanced result in additional vehicle miles traveled by commuters who must drive to employment centers. The SCAQMD is the agency principally responsible for comprehensive air pollution control in the South Coast Air Basin. However, the City and the County, like all other local planning agencies, have an important role to play in controlling air pollution through their land use and transportation policies. Local agencies have a shared responsibility to promote strategies for trip reduction, congestion management, low emission vehicle infrastructure, transit accessibility, and energy conservation. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-58 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has prepared guidelines for local jurisdictions to consider incorporating into planning documents such as this General Plan to protect residents, particularly sensitive receptors, from harmful air pollutants. Sensitive individuals refer to those segments of the population most susceptible to poor air quality (i.e. children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing serious health problems affected by air quality). The health of these individuals can be seriously impacted by continuous or repeated exposure to air pollution, which can increase the risk of cancer, asthma, impaired lung function in children, bronchitis, and cardiovascular disease. The CARB guidelines recommend minimum spacing requirements between sensitive uses and individuals, and sources of air pollution. Policies have been included in the element to require adequate separation of uses to protect public health. In addition to pollutants, some land uses generate odors which are irritating or have the potential to cause headaches, nausea or other health effects. Examples of uses which have the potential to generate odors include sewage treatment plants, landfills, recycling facilities, waste transfer stations, auto body shops, coating operations, fiberglass operations, and uses that process or store chemicals or petroleum products. Control and regulation of odors in the planning area is the responsibility of the SCAQMD. However, adequate separation between uses which have the potential to generate odors and sensitive land uses has been considered in preparation of the land use map. Land uses that have the potential to be sources of air -borne dust and particulates include rock crushing and gravel operations, quarrying, mining, and recycling of construction debris. In addition, diesel engines have been identified as a source of toxic particulate matter. According to CARB, diesel particulates represent 70 percent of the known potential cancer risk from air toxics in California. CARB recommends that planning documents such as General Plan Land Use and Circulation Elements consider air quality and public health issues by locating residences and other sensitive land uses away from sources of air pollution, and by ensuring that circulation facilities such as truck routes and truck stops are not located near sensitive uses. Another major issue in terms of air quality is climate change associated with carbon emissions. This issue is discussed in the next section. K. Climate Change Background and Legal Requirements The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was established under the auspices of the United Nations to produce a global consensus on the science and economics of climate change. The IPCC does not conduct any research nor does it monitor climate related data. Its role is to assess the latest scientific, technical and socio-economic literature produced worldwide relevant to the understanding of the risk of human -induced climate change. In 2007, the IPCC issued a series of reports. The first report provided a summary of the science of what is causing climate change (Physical Science Basis), and the second report (Summary for Policy Makers) outlined the expected impacts, adaptation, and vulnerability of the environment to climate change. The conclusions of these two reports were: The global atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases (including methane, carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide) have increased due to human activity since 1750. The increase in these concentrations is primarily due to the consumption of fossil fuels. CO-59 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan The global mean temperature is likely to increase between 1.8°C and 4.0°C by the end of the century. Sea levels are likely to rise between 0.2 and 0.6 meters by the end of the century. Heat waves, thaw events, and heavy precipitation are likely to become more intense. The third I PCC report (Mitigation of Climate Change) addressed mitigation measures that can be taken to address climate change. This report concluded that although climate change threatens the global environment if unchecked, catastrophic impacts of climate change can be avoided if immediate and consistent actions are taken to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions. The term "greenhouse gases" (GHG) refers to gases in the Earth's atmosphere that act to absorb long -wave radiation from the sun. These gases act like an insulating blanket and may result in an increase in global temperatures. The primary GHGs are water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, "Climate Change" is a term that refers to changes in the global temperature over time. Global temperature is generally determined by three different methods, or "forcings": • Changes in how the Earth receives incoming solar radiation • Changes in the way solar radiation is reflected by the Earth • Changes in the way solar radiation is absorbed by the Earth Each of these forcings occurs naturally and have influenced global climate for billions of years resulting in a series of gradual warm periods and cold periods. The concept of man-made, or "anthropogenic", climate change is contained within the third forcing listed above. As previously stated an increase in the concentration of GHG affects how the earth absorbs solar radiation and, can lead to an increase in global temperature. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the leading causes of GHG emissions in the United States are the generation of electricity, primarily by coal burning power plants, and tailpipe emissions from vehicles, primarily passenger cars. The United States emits over seven billion tons of GHG annually and has the highest per -capita GHG emission in the world. By contrast, California is the twelfth largest emitter of carbon dioxide in the world. A study completed in 2007 by the Netherlands Environmental Assessment agency concluded, however, that China has superseded the United States in total annual carbon dioxide emissions. California leads the nation in vehicle miles traveled. In California, over 70 percent of GHG emissions come from burning fossil fuels, and over 50 percent of the total GHG emissions in the State are from vehicle exhaust. GHG emissions are created by vehicle transit in three ways5: The fuel efficiency of the vehicle The carbon content of the fuel itself • The amount of vehicle miles travelled over a given amount of time 5 Reid Ewing, et al., Growing Cooler: The Evidence on Urban Planning and Climate Change. (Washington, D.C.: ULI — The Urban Land Institute, 2008) 2. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-60 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space The United States Department of Transportation estimates that the national per -capita vehicle miles travelled (VMT) exceeded 10,000 miles in 2005. Since 1980 VMT has increased three times faster than the national population and twice as fast as vehicle registration. Municipalities have an opportunity to impact VMT through land use policy. A 2006 report to Governor Schwarzenegger prepared by the California Action Team concludes that the climate in California will likely increase between 30F and 10OF by the end of the century. Consequences of this temperature rise in the State of California would include substantial loss of snowpack, increased risk of large wildfires, impacts to local air quality, increased demand for the generation of electricity, reduced agricultural yield and negative impacts on tourism. The State Department of Water Resources has identified the following projected impacts to California's water from climate change: • By 2050, a loss of at least 25 percent of the Sierra snowpack, an important source of urban, agricultural and environmental water; • Variable weather patterns, with more severe winters and spring flooding, and longer droughts; • Flood levels on many California rivers exceeding design flows and causing levees, dams and other infrastructure to fail; • Rising sea level, threatening many coastal communities as well as the Sacramento -San Joaquin Delta, which supplies 25 million Californians with drinking water; • Rising water temperatures and changes in runoff patterns that may affect aquatic species and agriculture; • Lower groundwater tables due to hydrologic changes and greater demand. The third IPCC report outlines a series of steps that should be taken to reduce the effects of climate change. Many of these steps can be taken with no or very little cost, such as improving building insulation and banning incandescent light bulbs. Other low -carbon technologies may increase expense, but are considered feasible. For example, enhancing the effectiveness of wind and solar power would require improvements in technology and infrastructure, but these costs may be outweighed by the benefits of reducing carbon emissions from coal generation plants. Overall, the IPCC report recommends stabilizing GHG at 550 parts per million, a level that would limit the increase in global temperature to acceptable levels. CO-61 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan The Obama Administration is in the process of developing a carbon dioxide "cap -and -trade" system for regulating carbon emissions from point sources. This cap -and -trade system (as opposed to a carbon dioxide tax) would work by first establishing a total emission cap for GHG and then permitting companies to emit a specific amount of GHG. Companies would be able to sell any excess credits to other companies for a profit if they emit less than their permitted amount. Given its link to climate change, the United States Environmental Protection Agency is also exploring the inclusion of carbon dioxide under the Federal Clean Air Act, thereby subjecting carbon dioxide to regulations under the Clean Air Act. Responding to the threat of global warming, Governor Schwarzenegger signed Executive Order S-3-05 in June, 2005, recognizing global climate change and its impacts on California, and creating the Governor's Climate Action Team. In September, 2006, the Governor signed Assembly Bill 32 (AB 32) into law, mandating the reduction of GHG emissions in California. AB 32 requires reduction of the State's GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020, a cap equal to a 25 percent reduction from current levels. Over 400 cities in the United States have signed commitments to reduce GHG emissions by at least 7 percent below 1990 levels by 2012. The State of California strongly encourages local planning agencies to respond to the threat of global warming by implementing carbon reduction measures at the local level,. Letters from the State Attorney General's Office to various jurisdictions throughout the State have emphasized the need to incorporate mitigations to reduce GHG emissions in local policy documents, such as General Plans, stating: AB 32 requires both reporting of greenhouse gas emissions and their reduction on a brisk time schedule, including a reduction of carbon dioxide emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. Local governments will be called upon to help carry out the legislation's provisions, and the General Plan revision is the appropriate place to identify both carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas sources, as well as actions for mitigation of the increases in emissions in greenhouse gases resulting from actions set forth in the General Plan revision. The Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR) is expected to release guidelines to assist lead agencies in defining thresholds of significance for GHG emissions as a part of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review process. Senate Bill 97 required OPR to adopt these guidelines by January 1, 2010. On December 12, 2008 the California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted the Climate Change Draft Scoping Plan (Scoping Plan). The Scoping Plan details how the mandates established by AB 32 will be implemented. The plan recommends sixteen "reduction measures" that will result in a state-wide emission reduction target of 174 million metric tons (mmt) of carbon dioxide.6 CARB estimates that achieving this target will reduce GHG emissions in California to 1990 levels. 6 The Scoping Plan identifies all emission targets in "millions of metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent". This was done to provide a standardized measurement for greenhouse gas emissions given the enormous variety of individual types and characteristic properties of greenhouse gases including methane, nitric oxide, etc.. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-62 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space One of the recommended reduction measures identified by the Scoping Plan is the GHG emission reduction target within future Regional Transportation Plans (RTP). This measure sets an emission reduction target of 5 mmt to be derived from RTP policies regarding VMT that will be implemented by Municipal Planning Organizations (MPO) and local governments regarding vehicle miles travelled (VMT). Specifically, the regional MPO's and local governments across the State will be required to reduce VMT through the creation of regional Sustainable Community Strategies (SCS) and local land use policy. Senate Bill 375 (SB 375) was approved by the Governor on September 30, 2008 and provides the legislative framework for this target to be achieved. CARB is the regulating agency. The new SCS's will be a part of the next state- wide Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) process which must be completed by 2012. Actions to Address Climate Change in the Santa Clarita Valley The City of Santa Clarita and County of Los Angeles have been working cooperatively on the One Valley One Vision General Plan Update since 2000, well before climate change was identified as a local planning issue and before adoption of AB 32. However, the land use plan developed for the Santa Clarita Valley was designed to address the related issues of urban sprawl, traffic congestion, air quality, watershed management, and open space preservation, in a manner that also addresses some of the issues of global warming. Specifically, the General Plan elements for land use, circulation, open space and conservation set forth the following programs and objectives for the Valley: 1. Delineation of areas designated for urban use and non -urban (rural) use in order to limit urban sprawl into outlying hillside areas and to encourage urban infill development; 2. Provision of incentives for infill development and revitalizing older commercial areas, through adoption of a Mixed Use designation, and by increasing standards for density and floor area ratio in urban areas, which will allow greater land use intensity and mixing of residential with commercial and service uses; 3. Designation of Mixed Use designations adjacent to transit centers, including Metrolink stations and the McBean Transfer Facility, in order to concentrate mixed use, higher intensity development within walking distance of public transit; 4. Inclusion of non-residential "activity areas" within urban residential land use designations, to allow location of uses serving a local clientele, such as small groceries, dry cleaners, and personal services, within walking distance of adjacent neighborhoods without approval of a General Plan Amendment; 5. Development of continuous and connected paseo and bikeway systems that link neighborhoods to public transit, parks, schools, business and community service areas; 6. Incorporation of planning policies to increase local bus service and improve pedestrian access to transit stops; 7. Preservation of the Santa Clara River watershed through acquisition of open space along the river and its tributary streams, and designation of low -intensity uses within the 100-year flood plain; CO-63 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan 8. Continuation of the City's urban forestry program that has resulted in the planting of 50,000 trees to date and will continue to provide for tree planting and maintenance throughout the Valley; 9. Adoption of a goal to create two jobs for every new dwelling unit, and to balance job growth with housing growth in various locations throughout the Santa Clarita Valley to reduce commuting distances to employment; 10. Continuation of the City's open space acquisition policies to create a continuous greenbelt around the Valley and along the Santa Clara River, supported by a City voter -approved ballot measure to provide funding for land purchases; 11. Adoption by Los Angeles County of ordinances to promote use of green building materials and techniques, low impact development for stormwater control at the source, and drought - tolerant landscaping. Additional Programs and Policies to Address Climate Change The challenge of addressing climate change at the local level is being met by cities and communities throughout the country, and more information about successful programs is becoming available. Response to climate change by local jurisdictions will require a two - pronged approach: first, adopting measures to reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions; and second, identifying measures to adapt to changing climatic conditions, which may include water and power shortages in combination with drought. The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) has urged a state-wide reduction in water consumption as a means of reducing energy expended to pump, treat, heat, de -salt, and discharge water. According to the California Energy Commission, conserving one acre foot of water (enough to serve two families of four for one year) reduces GHG emissions by approximately one metric ton. Scientific evidence indicates that even if GHG emissions were to cease immediately, the atmosphere will continue to warm for the greater part of this century, resulting in changes to snowpack, runoff, drought conditions, fires, and other impacts as discussed above. At the same time, California's population is expected to grow to 48 million people by 2030. Due to these factors, DWR will continue to emphasize water conservation and water banking throughout the State as primary tools to protect the state's water supply in response to global warming. A large portion of the GHG emissions in California are associated with buildings, because they use so much energy for lighting, cooling and heating, and water for landscape irrigation. Several new laws are pending in the California Legislature to mandate green building practices in new building construction. Economists have calculated that buildings could cut 30 percent of their emissions and save money at the same time, through use of low -energy light bulbs, intelligent lighting systems, enhanced insulation, energy -efficient heating and cooling systems, and use of recycled steel. One way to decrease cooling costs is through installation of shade trees around buildings and parking lots to reduce the "heat island" effect of pavement and hard surfaces. A necessary step for the Santa Clarita Valley jurisdictions to comply with AB 32 will be completion of separate GHG Emissions inventories. The purpose of these inventories is to identify and categorize the major sources and quantities of greenhouse gas emissions being produced by the City's and County's residents, businesses, and municipal operations. Based on the requirements of AB 32, 1990 will be used as the baseline year for the inventory, and will serve as a reference against which to measure the City's and County's progress towards DRAFT May, 2011 CO-64 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space reducing greenhouse gas emissions over time. Goals and policies have been included in this Element to address the issues of GHG emissions and climate change, and implementation measures have been included in outlining steps to complete a Climate Action Plan for the Santa Clarita Valley L. Park and Recreation Resources and Facilities County and State Parks The County owns and operates 13 parks in the planning area, totaling 578 acres and serving various communities throughout the Valley. County parks are classified as follows: • Neighborhood parks, generally from five to 10 acres in area, provide active recreational areas intended to serve a population of up to 5,000 within a half -mile radius. There are seven County -owned neighborhood parks in the planning area (Chesebrough, Del Valle, Hasley Canyon, Jake Kuredjian, Pico Canyon, Plum Canyon/David March, and Northbridge). • Community parks are generally 10-40 acres, provide both passive and active recreation facilities, and are intended to serve a population of up to 20,000 within a two-mile radius. There is one County -owned community park in the planning area (Richard Rioux Park). • Regional parks are generally over 50 acres, and offer a wide range of specialized recreational activities to serve the a population within a one -hour's drive. There are two County regional parks in the planning area: Val Verde Park and William S. Hart Park. o Originally built in the 1920s, Val Verde Park provides a focal point for many community activities. The County has recently undertaken an expansion of Val Verde Park by purchasing a lot near the park entrance, and providing new football fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, restrooms, playground, and landscaping. o Part of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, William S. Hart Park is the former home and ranch of William S. Hart, silent film cowboy star and director. The park includes a museum within a Spanish Colonial Revival style mansion, which contains original furnishings, a collection of western art, mementos of early Hollywood, and Native American artifacts. In addition, there is a furnished 1910 ranch house which is open for unguided tours. • Recreation parks are generally at least 50 acres and are designed to handle large-scale multiple participant sports programs and tournaments. Within the planning area, Castaic Sports Complex is the only County park in this category. • Reservations are lands set aside in order to protect scenic resources, biologic resources, geological features and/or open space, and provide only passive recreational facilities such as hiking and picnicking. Within the planning area, Vasquez Rocks is a County facility in this category. CO-65 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Due to growth pressures in County areas, particularly in and around Castaic, the need for additional playfields for youth sports has been identified as a significant park planning objective. With over 1,000 children involved in youth sports in the Castaic area, the community has only two places for sports practice: one five -acre park and the Castaic Regional Sports Complex. The County is making plans to expand facilities at the Sports Complex to include more play fields, in addition to adding an aquatic center there. Pending development projects in the area will also be required to provide sports fields to meet future facility needs. There are three State parks located within the planning area, which are operated by the County: Castaic Lake Recreation Area, Placerita Canyon State Park, and Vasquez Rocks State Park. State parklands total approximately 13,476 acres within the planning area. County and State parks are listed on Table CO-2 and shown on Exhibit CO-8. Citv Parks and Recreation Plannin The City's first General Plan after incorporation, adopted in 1991, contained a Parks and Recreation Element as an optional element. At that time the City owned and operated 10 parks encompassing 67.25 acres; in addition, the 15-acre William S. Hart Park, owned and operated by Los Angeles County, was located within the City limits. The element established standards for community and neighborhood parks, included an inventory of parks and other public recreational facilities, established a trail plan, included a needs assessment, and established goals and policies for park planning. The City adopted a Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan in 1995, setting forth specific strategies for upgrading existing facilities and developing new parks and trails. The 1995 plan identified park classifications for neighborhood parks, metro/community parks, and special use parks, and proposed a goal of four acres of parkland per 1,000 residents. In 2007, the City initiated an update of a Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan (MasterPlan). Since the first Master Plan was adopted in 1995, the City had added 240 acres to the park system, constructed 165 acres of improved parkland, and secured land for Central Park. New parks included an activities center, aquatic center, gymnasium, and community center. The City also constructed 33 miles of trails, and set aside over 3,000 acres of open space. The City and the County have adopted park fee ordinances pursuant to the State's Quimby Act (Government Code 66477), which allows local agencies to collect impact fees from residential subdividers to finance development of new parks to serve residents. In order to collect these fees, state law requires that the agency have an adopted General Plan with standards for park and recreational facilities. Section 16.15 of the City's Municipal Code allows developers to dedicate and build parks to serve residents of a new development, or to pay in -lieu fees to the City for parkland acquisition and development. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-66 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space In conformance with the Quimby Act, the City's park fee ordinance requires dedication or payment of in -lieu fees for a minimum of three acres of parkland for each 1,000 residents. However, the City's General Plan standard calls for parks to be provided at a ratio of five acres per 1,000 residents. The City's General Plan standard will remain five acres per 1,000 in this General Plan update through the One Valley One Vision planning effort, and additional funding sources will be identified to acquire and develop parkland above that financed from park impact fees in order to meet the General Plan standard. Based on current parks facilities in the City, there are approximately 1.5 to two acres of developed parkland per 1,000 residents in the City as of 2007, with 246 acres of developed park space and about 173 acres of passive park land. In addition, the City has purchased land for preservation of natural open space along the Santa Clara River and as a greenbelt surrounding urban areas. The City of Santa Clarita Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department operates 20 City parks totaling 246 acres and ranging in area from about 0.5 to 80 acres, which provide a wide range of recreational facilities. City standards for neighborhood and community parks are similar to the categories used by the County, described above. Based on these categories, there are 12 neighborhood parks within the City and five community parks, including Bouquet Canyon, Bridgeport, Canyon Country, Valencia Heritage, and Newhall Parks. Special use and passive parks are also included in the City's Master Plan, and are generally used for open space greenbelts and vista points. These parks include Rivendale, Sand Canyon River Park, Lost Canyon Park, Pioneer Park, and several others. There are dozens of passive and special use parks in the City. The City's Central Park is a multi -use park intended to serve the entire Santa Clarita Valley, and is classified as a regional park. This park provides facilities for league sports, cultural enrichment, and passive open space. The Newhall Community Center, which opened in 2006, is a special use facility. In addition to acquiring and developing new park land, the City continues to expand and upgrade sports and recreational facilities at its existing parks. In 2007, the City awarded a design contract for a major expansion to the existing sports complex in the Centre Pointe Business Park, which will include an 18,000-square-foot gymnasium, a remodeled and expanded skate park, and multi -use fields on 15 acres. The City's updated Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan will serve as a guiding document for park planning, identifying opportunities and strategies to meet service needs, and outlining funding strategies in the City. Due to the concurrent planning efforts on this Master Plan, this Element will not serve as the City's Master Plan but will instead focus on broad policy issues relating to park planning and more particularly on joint goals for the City and County to pursue in order to coordinate efforts on open space preservation and park development. A summary of existing park and open space land is included in Table CO-2, and shown on Exhibit CO-8. The City has also acquired almost 260 acres of additional land for future parks or expansion of existing parks which are not yet fully developed. To supplement City and County park facilities, 12 school facilities have been made available for community recreational purposes through approval of joint use agreements. National Forest areas also provide recreational facilities available to Valley residents, including hiking trails and campgrounds. Privately -owned golf courses, which provide scenic open space as well as recreation, are also listed. CO-67 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Joint Park Planning Issues Some of the future park planning needs that have been identified in public surveys and meetings of Valley residents include more play fields for youth sports, sports complexes large enough to accommodate lighted fields for tournaments, more community swimming pools and water parks, and an amphitheater for outdoor concerts and theater festivals. In addition, a need has been identified to provide additional parks and recreational facilities in some of the older, underserved areas of the valley. Table CO-2 Inventory of Park and Open Space Lands Santa Clarita Valley - 2008 Facility Acreage Location Owner/Responsible Agency City Parks: Almendra 4.3 Valencia City Begonias Lane 4.2 Canyon Country City Bouquet Canyon 10.5 Saugus City Bridgeport 16 Valencia City Canyon Country 19.3 Canyon Country City Central Park 80 Saugus City Circle J Ranch 5.3 Saugus City Creekview 5 Newhall City Newhall 14.3 Newhall City North Oaks 2.3 Canyon Country City Oak Spring Canyon 5.7 Canyon Country City Old Orchard 5.4 Valencia/Newhall City Pamplico 7.6 Saugus City Santa Clarita 7.3 Saugus City Valencia Glen 7.3 Valencia City Valencia Heritage 17.2 Valencia City Valencia Meadows 6.1 Valencia City Caravahlo/SC Sports 22 Canyon Country City Complex Todd Longshore 5.6 Canyon Country City Veterans Historical Plaza 0.5 Newhall City County Parks Chesebrough 5.1 Valencia County Del Valle 5.8 Castaic County Hasley Canyon 5.4 Castaic County Jake Kuredjian 5 Stevenson Ranch County Northbridge 9.8 Valencia County Pico Canyon 18 Stevenson Ranch County David March (Plum Canyon) 12.9 Stevenson Ranch County Richard Rioux 15.5 Stevenson Ranch County Val Verde 57.6 Val Verde County Castaic Regional Sports 51.0 Castaic County Complex William S. Hart Park 224.3 Newhall Count DRAFT May, 2011 CO-68 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Facility Acreage Location Owner/Responsible Agency Tesoro Adobe Park 2.2 Valencia County Ed Davis Park 168 Towsley Canyon County/Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy Passive parks Chevron -Pioneer 4.6 Newhall City Lost Canyon 41.2 Canyon Country City Mint Canyon 18.6 Canyon Country City Rivendale 64 Towsley Canyon City River Park 24.3 Canyon Country City Sand Canyon River 20 Canyon Country City Summit Park 46.16 Valencia Summit Homeowners Association State parks/recreation areas 8700 Castaic State/County Castaic Lake Rec. Area Placerita Canyon Nature Area. 341 Placerita Canyon State/County Vasquez Rocks 905 Agua Dulce State/County Nature preserves and Other Open Space Santa Clarita Woodlands 4000 Towsley Santa Monica Mountains (includes Ed Davis Park) Canyon/Santa Conservancy (SMMC) Susana Mountains Whitney Canyon 442 Entrance at end of City and Mountains and San Fernando Road Recreation Conservation near Highway 14 Authority (MRCA) Elsmere Canyon 400 Near intersection of (SMMC) Newhall Avenue and Sierra Hwy Mentryville 800 Pico Canyon MRCA Santa Clara River Open 2,000 Along Santa Clara City Space River Wagoner Open Space 412 Canyon Country (1 City mile east of City boundary, bisected by SR-14) Quigley Canyon Open Space 158 East Newhall City Golden Valley Ranch 901 East of SR-14 from County Golden Valley Road to Placerita Canyon CO-69 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Facility Acreage Location Owner/Responsible Agency Road Placerita Canyon Open Space 140 Adjacent to Placerita City Canyon State Park Michael D. Antonovich Open 480 East/Rice Canyon. MRCA Space Trailhead along Old Road Castaic Open Space 335 Castaic MRCA Wilson Canyon Ranch 240 Castaic MRCA Newhall High Country Open 140 South of Newhall SMMC/SCWRCA Space Round Mountain 136.4 Valencia near 1-5 and City Magic Mtn. Parkway National Forest land 151,827 North and southeast United States Forest Angeles National Forest of developed portions Service Los Padres National Forest of Valley Planned Communities Open Space Newhall Ranch 6,000 High country west of Newhall Ranch High 1-5, south of SR-126 Country Recreation and Conservation Joint Powers Agency Private Golf Courses Valencia Country Club 194 Valencia Private Vista Valencia 51 Valencia Private Robinson Ranch 344 Santa Clarita Private TPC at Valencia 226 Valencia Private Utility facilities/corridors Castaic Lake Water Agency 48.7 Saugus Castaic Lake Water Conservatory Garden and Agency Learning Center Cemeteries Eternal Valley Memorial 56 Santa Clarita Private DRAFT May, 2011 CO-70 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space M. Open Space Resources Legal Requirements for Open Space Preservation State law contains extensive provisions directing preservation of open space by local jurisdictions. In enacting these statutes, the Legislature made the following findings: (1) the preservation of open -space land is necessary not only for the maintenance of the economy of the state, but also for the assurance of the continued availability of land for the production of food and fiber, for the enjoyment of scenic beauty, for recreation and for the use of natural resources; (2) discouraging premature and unnecessary conversion of open -space land to urban uses is a matter of public interest and will be of benefit to urban dwellers because it will discourage noncontiguous development patterns which unnecessarily increase the costs of community services to community residents; (3) the anticipated increase in the population of the state demands that cities, counties, and the state at the earliest possible date make definite plans for the preservation of valuable open -space land and take positive action to carry out such plans by the adoption and strict administration of laws, ordinances, rules and regulations as authorized by this chapter or by other appropriate methods; (4) in order to assure that the interest of all its people are met in the orderly growth and development of the state and the preservation and conservation of its resources, it is necessary to provide for the development of statewide coordinated plans for the conservation and preservation of open -space lands; (5) cities and counties must recognize that open -space land is a limited and valuable resource which must be conserved wherever possible. Based on these findings, the California Legislature added the requirement for an Open Space Element to state law in 1970. Government Code Section 65302(e) states: [The general plan shall include] an Open Space Element as provided in Article 10.5 (commencing with [Government Code] Section 65560). Along with the housing element, the open -space element has a clear statutory intent and, next to land use, is broadest in scope. Because of this breadth, open space issues overlap those of several other elements. For example, the Land Use Element's issues of agriculture, natural resources, recreation, enjoyment of scenic beauty and public lands are covered by open space provisions. "Open space for the preservation of natural resources" and "open space used for the managed production of resources" encompass the concerns of the Conservation Element. "Open space for public health and safety" covers issues similar to those found in the Safety Element. As explained in the introductory section of this Element, the State -mandated Elements of Open Space and Conservation have been combined into a single element in the Santa Clarita Valley General Plan update, because of the close relationship between the needs to conserve natural resources and open space. In various sections of this element dealing with biological, historical, scenic, water, and other resources, the need to establish adequate open space to meet conservation goals has been discussed. Therefore, it was determined to be beneficial to plan open space protection in a coordinated manner with resource conservation and to include goals and policies for each of these issues into a single document. Open Space Designations in the Santa Clarita Valley State law defines "open -space land" as any parcel or area of land or water which is essentially unimproved and devoted to specified open -space uses and which is designated on a local or regional open space plan. Within the Santa Clarita Valley, the following types of areas have been designated for open space preservation pursuant to State law: CO-71 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan (1) Open space for the preservation of natural resources including, but not limited to, areas required for the preservation of plant and animal life, including habitat for fish and wildlife species; areas required for ecologic and other scientific study purposes; rivers, streams, lake shores, banks of rivers and streams, and watershed lands. (2) Open space used for the managed production of resources, including but not limited to, forest lands, rangeland, agricultural lands and areas of economic importance for the production of food or fiber; areas required for recharge of groundwater basins; and areas containing major mineral deposits, including those in short supply. (3) Open space for outdoor recreation, including but not limited to, areas of outstanding scenic, historic and cultural value; areas particularly suited for park and recreation purposes, including access to lake shores, beaches, and rivers and streams; and areas which serve as links between major recreation and open -space reservations, including utility easements, banks of rivers and streams, trails, and scenic highway corridors. (4) Open space for public health and safety, including, but not limited to, areas which require special management or regulation because of hazardous or special conditions such as earthquake fault zones, unstable soil areas, flood plains, watersheds, areas presenting high fire risks, areas required for the protection of water quality and water reservoirs and areas required for the protection and enhancement of air quality. State law also requires that every local open -space plan shall contain an action program consisting of specific programs which the legislative body intends to pursue in implementing its open -space plan. Within the planning area, both the City and County have taken numerous actions to preserve open space land for preservation of historic and cultural resources, biological resources, park and recreation use, visual and aesthetic resources, aggregate resources, flood control and watershed protection, and protection of the public from hazardous conditions. These measures have been described in the previous sections of this element, and in the Land Use and Safety Elements. In addition to the open space lands set aside by the City and County, there are several State parks and recreation areas located within the planning area. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-72 z < FS WJw z ..c 0 0 0 0 04 LL Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Open Space Preservation Efforts The City of Santa Clarita began planning for preservation of open space shortly after its incorporation in 1987. The Santa Clara River Recreation and Water Feature Study was adopted by the City in 1991. This document was the City's first step in planning for recreational use of the Santa Clara River, and formed the basis for development of the current Santa Clara River trail. The plan envisioned a continuous river environment encompassing active and passive parks, natural open space, and riverfront community centers and retail establishments, linked by a system of bikeways, paseos, and multi -use trails. The plan also identified the City's goal to coordinate with adjacent jurisdictions to develop a trail network along the Santa Clara River that would link the San Gabriel Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. In 1995 the City adopted a Parks, Recreation and Community Services Master Plan, containing an inventory of existing facilities and establishing a plan for park development through 2005. The City began updating this plan in 2007. The City of Santa Clarita's Open Space Acquisition Plan (OSAP) was adopted in 2002 to create a systematic and objective mechanism for evaluating and acquiring open space. This plan was intended to assist in the creation of a "green belt" surrounding the City of Santa Clarita to improve and expand wildlife habitat and corridors, and to provide a framework for the City to evaluate, acquire, and maintain the most beneficial parcels within and surrounding the Santa Clarita Valley for preservation as open space. The OSAP also identified a goal of acquiring open space to augment the Rim of the Valley open space and trail system. Since its incorporation in 1987, the City of Santa Clarita has acquired more than 3,000 acres of land for the purpose of preservation of natural habitat and open space. The City Council has focused on preserving a greenbelt of open space around the City's incorporated boundaries, and about 50 percent of that greenbelt was completed as of 2007. The City also partnered with the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy (SMMC) to pool resources for open space acquisition, as in the 2002 joint acquisition of 442 acres of land in Whitney Canyon, adjacent to Elsmere Canyon at the end of Newhall Avenue near Highway 14. Preservation of this land will contribute to the open space greenbelt around the Valley, provide for extension of the Rim of the Valley Trail Corridor, and preserve this canyon in perpetuity for future generations. In 2005, the City required dedication of the 907-acre Golden Valley Ranch open space area from PacSun, Inc., as a condition of approval on the developer's projects. This land is located east and south of State Road 14 and runs generally from Golden Valley Road south to Placerita Canyon Road. Other examples of preserved open space are listed on Table CO-2. In another innovative partnership, the County teamed with the developer to preserve the 6,000 acres of the Newhall Ranch high country, located between the City limits and the Ventura County line. The Newhall Ranch High Country Recreation and Conservation Joint Powers Agency was formed to maintain this open space land. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-74 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space On March 7, 2007, the donation by the property owner of 400 acres of Elsmere Canyon to the Mountains and Recreation Conservation Authority (MRCA) for use as an open space preserve received final approval. Elsmere Canyon is a natural, riparian area that contains vital links between the Angeles National Forest, Placerita Canyon Nature Center and Whitney Canyon for the wildlife corridor, connecting the San Gabriel, Santa Susana and Santa Monica mountains. The canyon contains waterfalls, rolling hills, riparian habitats, coastal sage and oak woodlands, and significant ecological, cultural and historical treasures. Another 800 acres of the canyon are deemed in need of protection in the future. The SMMC and its affiliate agency, the MRCA, own and manage more than 55,000 acres of public land in Southern California, of which over 7,000 acres are located within the planning area. One of these properties is the historic town of Mentryville and more than 3,000 surrounding acres, which was donated to the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority by Chevron USA in 1995. The Santa Clarita Watershed Recreation and Conservation Authority was formed in 1997 by the SMMC and the City of Santa Clarita as an independent government agency to improve and maintain 442-acre Whitney Canyon Park, which includes park improvements, shutting of old oil wells, and enhancing habitat use as a wildlife corridor. This Authority may be used to maintain other joint acquisitions of open space land in the future. In 2005, a proposed Open Space and Parkland Preservation district was voted down by the City's voters by a narrow margin. However, open space proponents continued to promote the measure throughout the community, with a successful measure passing two years later. In July, 2007 the voters of the City of Santa Clarita voted by a margin of 69 percent to 31 percent to support formation of a new Open Space Preservation District within the City. The City Council had proposed the district formation to help increase the amount of preserved open space in and around the Santa Clarita Valley. The voters approved an annual assessment to be levied on each homeowner and property owner within the City, with an average single family home paying $25 per year, which is estimated to generate about $1.5 million per year for the next 30 years. The vote also included possible future increases to be approved by City Council after a public hearing. The District will allow the City to purchase land to be held in perpetuity for the purpose of open space preservation. Funds generated from the annual assessments will be overseen by five -member Financial Accountability and Audit Panel to be appointed by the City Council. The City plans to use bond funding supported by revenue from the annual open space assessments to purchase up to $34 million in open space lands throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. Plans for open space acquisition include more community parks, preservation of biological habitat and geological resources, and creation of open space. In addition, the City plans to acquire land to complete an open space greenbelt around the Santa Clarita Valley. The City hopes to work cooperatively with the County, land conservancies, and other agencies to effectively leverage open space funds with State grants and other funding sources to provide for shared open space opportunities to benefit residents of the entire Valley. An example of such a successful partnership in the past was the purchase of the 442-acre Whitney Canyon Ranch, a partnership between the City and the SMMC operating as a joint powers authority with State bond funds. Table CO-2 contains an inventory of existing open space land within the Santa Clarita Valley, including both City and County parkland, resource protection areas, private open space, and open space land controlled by other agencies. CO-75 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Future Directions for Open Space The City and the County will continue to pursue their goal of creating an open space greenbelt encircling the Santa Clarita Valley, protecting important river and canyon habitats, maintaining the scenic hillsides and ridgelines that enhance community character in the Santa Clarita Valley, and conserving the Santa Clara River watershed. The 2007 Open Space District formation will be a powerful funding tool in achieving these goals. In addition, the City and County will continue to seek partnerships with the State, conservation agencies, and other entities as deemed appropriate in order to maximize funding opportunities and benefit all citizens in the Valley through preservation of open space. N. Recreational Trails Public Resources Code Section 5076 requires that "In developing the open -space element of a general plan as specified in subdivision (e) of Section 65302 of the Government Code, every city and county shall consider demands for trail -oriented recreational use and shall consider such demands in developing specific open -space programs. Further, every city, county, and district shall consider the feasibility of integrating its trail routes with appropriate segments of the state system." In compliance with this State requirement, both the City and the County have developed trail plans for adoption as part of their General Plans. In 2007, the County Board of Supervisors approved an updated trails map for the Santa Clarita and Antelope Valleys. The map was five years in the making, and was developed based on input from the Santa Clarita Valley Trails Advisory Committee. Members of the Advisory Committee walked, biked, drove and rode horses on potential trails with global positioning systems to finalize recommendations for trails to be included on the map. The trails were planned to connect different communities and link with other trails across county and city lines, including trails in Kern and Ventura Counties and within U. S. Forest Service land. The County has been a strong proponent of trail use and development. For the last 15 years, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich has sponsored annual trail rides to raise awareness about County trails that are available to all residents. Areas such as Towsley Canyon and Placerita Canyon have miles of trails that link City and County areas and are available to equestrians as well as hikers and non -motorized mountain bikes. In 2006, the City received a $150,000 grant from Supervisor Antonovich's District's Competitive Trails and Cities Grant Program to finance an extension of the Sand Canyon multi -use trail to connect north toward the planned extension of the 14.5-mile-long Santa Clara River Trail. The City has been planning for an interconnected trail system since shortly after its incorporation in 1987. In 1991, even before adoption of its first General Plan, the City adopted the Santa Clara River Recreation and Water Feature Study, which emphasized the need for a multi -use trail system along the Santa Clara River that would serve as "a continuous trail system that connects recreational features along the river corridor, as well as local and regional destination points." In addition to recommending the river trail system, the plan recommended removing fences and barriers along the river to provide public access to the river trail, planning bicycle routes and pedestrian walkways from residential neighborhoods to the river, directional signs for pedestrians, and providing pedestrian and trail links between the north and south sides of the river. The plan envisioned a river trail that would extend from the San Gabriel Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. The Santa Clara River runs along the bottom of the Santa Clarita Valley, DRAFT May, 2011 CO-76 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space and about seven and a half miles are within the city limits. The City had about five miles of the trail completed or under construction as of 2007, and is planning to extend the trail further to the east and west. All of the other trails within the City are planned to connect to the river trail, which also functions as a wildlife corridor. The City successfully petitioned the State Recreational Trails Committee to include the Santa Clara River as a trail corridor on the State trail plan, which has increased the project's success in competing for grant funding. The City also included trail plans in the 1991 General Plan and 1995 Parks, Recreation and Community Services Master Plan. The City has developed standards for hard surface trails, equestrian trails, soft surface trails, pedestrian bridges, and connection and access points. (Trail standards are discussed further in the Circulation Element). The City has developed public information brochures with maps, available on the City's website, for residents seeking information on paseo systems and regional recreational trails. City trails are open from sunrise to 10:00 p.m., and bike lockers provided at the three Metrolink stations are available for trail users. The City has also developed trailheads with parking and services to provide convenient access to trails. The City funds trail construction on a project -by -project basis by combining general fund money with grant applications. Since 1995 the City has received $12-$13 million in grants used for trail construction, including both State and federal funds. For example, an MTA grant was used to fund design and construction of the continuation of the Santa Clara River trail from the South Fork to Interstate 5. The City and County also require developers to dedicate trail easements and construct trail segments within the project boundaries of new development, based on adopted trail plans, and to provide connections to regional trails where required. City staff coordinates with County and federal agencies and developers on projects outside the City limits, including U.S. Forest Service lands, to ensure that the City's trail systems connect with regional trails. One of the city's specific goals is to tie its trail system in with the Pacific Crest Trail, which passes through Agua Dulce near Vasquez Rocks on its north -south path from the U.S.-Canada border to the U.S.-Mexico border. The City and County will continue to cooperate with neighboring agencies and stakeholders to create additional regional trail segments. With wildfires, floods, and general forest growth conditions, trail maintenance is a constant need throughout the City's trail systems. The City and County are fortunate to benefit from the labors of a dedicated volunteer trail maintenance crew that helps staff maintain nature trails. Exhibit CO-9 shows regional recreational trails within City and County areas throughout the planning area. CO-77 DRAFT May, 2011 co O U City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space O. Summary of Conservation and Open Space Needs in the Santa Clarita Valley Based on the existing conditions and issues outlined in the background sections of the Conservation and Open Space Element, planning needs for the Santa Clarita Valley are summarized below. Policies and objectives in Part 2 of the element have been developed to address these needs. 1. Strive to balance the needs of new residents, businesses and employment centers with the community's goals for retention of open space and preservation of natural resources. 2. Limit losses of valuable topsoil by erosion, construction, and development practices. 3. Maintain and protect the scenic backdrop of hills and ridgelines around and within the valley, to preserve community character. 4. Protect the scenic beauty of the Valley's canyons, woodlands, water bodies, and unique geological features, to enhance the sense of place. 5. Allow recovery of aggregate resources while minimizing impacts to the community and environment, and ensuring reclamation of mined lands. 6. Protect sensitive habitat, including wildlife corridors, endangered species, and the National Forest, from the adverse impacts of development, including noise, pollution, light, pets, off -road vehicles, and invasive species. 7. Effectively manage stormwater at the source, to promote infiltration into local aquifers, minimize flood impacts downstream, and reduce drainage infrastructure costs. 8. Require water conservation in all aspects of development, with particular emphasis on landscape irrigation. 9. Work with local water agencies to increase opportunities for use of reclaimed water. 10. Protect and enhance water quality within the Santa Clara River and watershed. 11. Cooperate with landowners and affected districts to assist in mitigating perchlorate contamination in the East Subbasin. 12. Protect culturally significant sites and districts throughout the valley, including Native American sites and those associated with exploration, settlement, and filming. 13. Contribute to a regional reduction in greenhouse gas emissions through land use planning and transportation strategies, and through reductions in energy consumption in buildings and site development, with a focus on older and existing buildings. 14. Recognizing that air quality is regional in nature, protect residents, especially sensitive receptors, from the harmful health effects of air pollution, to the extent feasible 15. Ensure that Santa Clarita Valley residents have access to adequate park and recreation facilities, and provide adequate facilities for all age groups. CO-79 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan 16. Develop a continuous network of multi -use trails within the Valley and connecting to adjacent forest and river areas, integrating both recreational and mobility components. 17. Preserve and protect open space throughout the Valley, focusing on completion of the open space greenbelt surrounding urbanized areas, and along the Santa Clara River. 18. Reduce vehicle miles traveled to locations outside the Santa Clarita Valley, as well as the number of vehicle trips within the Valley through the application of land use strategies that incorporate a sustainable mix of land uses and transit and pedestrian opportunities. PART 2: CONSERVATION AND OPEN SPACE GOALS AND POLICIES Responsible Management of Environmental Systems Goal COA : A balance between the social and economic needs of Santa Clarita Valley residents and protection of the natural environment, so that these needs can be met in the present and in the future. Objective CO 1.1: Protect the capacity of the natural "green" infrastructure to absorb and break down pollutants, cleanse air and water, and prevent flood and storm damage. Policy CO 1.1.1: In making land use decisions, consider the complex, dynamic, and interrelated ways that natural and human systems interact, such as the interactions between energy demand, water demand, air and water quality, and waste management. Policy CO 1.1.2: In making land use decisions, consider the impacts of human activity within watersheds and ecosystems, to maintain the functional viability of these systems. Policy CO 1.1.3: In making land use decisions, encourage development proposals that preserve natural ecosystem functions and enhance the health of the surrounding community. Objective CO 1.2: Promote more sustainable utilization of renewable resource systems. Policy CO 1.2.1: Improve the community's understanding of renewable resource systems that occur naturally in the Santa Clarita Valley, including systems related to hydrology, energy, ecosystems, and habitats, and the interrelationships between these systems, through the following measures: a. Through the environmental and development review processes, consider development proposals within the context of renewable resource systems and evaluate potential impacts on a system -wide basis (rather than a project -specific basis), to the extent feasible; b. In planning for new regional infrastructure projects, consider impacts on renewable resources within the context of interrelationships between these systems; DRAFT May, 2011 CO-80 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space c. Provide information to decision -makers about the interrelationship between traffic and air quality, ecosystems and water quality, land use patterns and public health, and other similar interrelationships between renewable resource systems in order to ensure that decisions are based on an understanding of these concepts. Policy CO 1.2.2: Working with other agencies as appropriate, develop and apply models and other tools for decision -making to support the sustainability of renewable systems. Objective CO 1.3: Conserve and make more efficient use of non-renewable resource systems, such as fossil fuels, minerals, and materials. Policy CO 1.3.1: Explore, evaluate, and implement methods to shift from using non-renewable resources to use of renewable resources in all aspects of land use planning and development. Policy CO 1.3.2: Promote reducing, reusing, and recycling in all Land Use designations and cycles of development. Policy CO 1.3.3: Provide informational material to the public about programs to conserve non-renewable resources and recover materials from the waste stream. Policy CO 1.3.4: Promote and encourage cogeneration projects for commercial and industrial facilities, provided they meet all applicable environmental quality standards including those related to air and noise and provide a net reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with energy production. Objective CO 1.4: Minimize the long-term impacts posed by harmful chemical and biological materials on environmental systems. Policy CO 1.4.1: In cooperation with other appropriate agencies, identify pollution sources and adopt strategies to reduce emissions into air and water bodies. Policy CO 1.4.2: In cooperation with other appropriate agencies, abate or remediate known areas of contamination and limit the effects of any such areas on public health. Policy CO 1.4.3: Encourage use of non -hazardous building materials, and non- polluting materials and industrial processes, to the extent feasible. Policy CO 1.4.4: In cooperation with other appropriate agencies, continue to develop and implement effective methods of handling and disposing of hazardous materials and waste. Objective CO 1.5: Manage urban development and human -built systems to minimize harm to ecosystems, watersheds, and other natural systems, such as urban runoff treatment trains that infiltrate, treat and remove direct connections to impervious areas. CO-81 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy CO 1.5.1: Promote the use of environmentally -responsible building design and efficiency standards in new development, and provide examples of these standards in public facilities. Policy CO 1.5.2: Design and manage public urban infrastructure systems to reduce impacts to natural systems. Policy CO 1.5.3: Consider life -cycles for buildings, development patterns, and uses, and their long-term effects on natural systems, through the following measures: a. Through the environmental review and development review processes, consider the impacts of new development on renewable systems through various phases including construction, use and operation, potential reuse, cessation of use, demolition, and reuse or restoration of the development site. b. Ensure that mitigation measures and conditions of approval intended to protect natural systems are adequately funded and monitored for the required timeframe. Policy CO 1.5.4: Seek ways to discourage human behavior that may be detrimental to natural systems and to encourage environmental responsibility, through education, incentives, removing barriers, enforcement, and other means as practicable and feasible. Policy CO 1.5.5: Promote concentration of urban uses within the center of the Santa Clarita Valley through incentives for infill development and rebuilding, in order to limit impacts to open space, habitats, watersheds, hillsides, and other components of the Valley's natural ecosystems. Policy CO 1.5.6: Through the development review process, consider the impacts of development on the entire watershed of the Santa Clara River and its tributaries, including hydromodification. Policy CO 1.5.7: Consider the principles of environmental sustainability, trip reduction, walkability, stormwater management, and energy conservation at the site, neighborhood, district, city, and regional level, in land use decisions. Policy CO 1.5.8: Consider environmental responsibility in all procurement decisions, including purchasing policies and capital projects. Objective CO 1.6: To the extent feasible, minimize long-term effects of development on natural systems and adjust development strategies as needed to promote sustainability. Policy CO 1.6.1: Identify environmental conditions that represent a healthy, sustainable community. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-82 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Policy CO 1.6.2: Use Geographic Information Systems, modeling, and other tools to indicate the locations of natural systems such as groundwater recharge areas, floodplain and floodway areas, oak tree woodlands, Significant Ecological Areas, and plant and animal species habitat. Policy CO 1.6.3: Provide information on the condition of natural systems to decision makers as part of the decision -making process regarding land use and development. Geological Resources Goal CO 2: Conserve the Santa Clarita Valley's hillsides, canyons, ridgelines, soils, and minerals, which provide the physical setting for the natural and built environments. Objective CO 2.1: Control soil erosion, waterway sedimentation, and airborne dust generation, and maintain the fertility of topsoil. Policy CO 2.1.1: Review soil erosion and sedimentation control plans for development -related grading activities, where appropriate, to ensure mitigation of potential erosion by water and air. Policy CO 2.1.2: Promote conservation of topsoil on development sites by stockpiling for later reuse, where feasible. Policy CO 2.1.3: Promote soil enhancement and waste reduction through composting, where appropriate. Objective CO 2.2: Preserve the Santa Clarita Valley's prominent ridgelines and limit hillside development to protect the valuable aesthetic and visual qualities intrinsic to the Santa Clarita Valley landscape. Policy CO 2.2.1: Locate development and designate land uses to minimize the impact on the Santa Clarita Valley's topography, minimizing grading and emphasizing the use of development pads that mimic the natural topography in lieu of repetitive flat pads, to the extent feasible. Policy CO 2.2.2: Ensure that graded slopes in hillside areas are revegetated with native drought tolerant plants or other approved vegetation to blend manufactured slopes with adjacent natural hillsides, in consideration of fire safety and slope stability requirements. Policy CO 2.2.3: Preserve designated natural ridgelines from development by ensuring a minimum distance for grading and development from these ridgelines of 50 feet or more if determined appropriate by the reviewing authority based on site conditions, to maintain the Santa Clarita Valley's distinctive community character and preserve the scenic setting. Policy CO 2.2.4: Identify and preserve significant geological and topographic features through designating these areas as open space or by other means as appropriate. CO-83 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy CO 2.2.5: Promote the use of adequate erosion control measures for all development in hillside areas, including single family homes and infrastructure improvements, both during and after construction. Policy CO 2.2.6: Encourage building and grading designs that conform to the natural grade, avoiding the use of large retaining walls and build-up walls that are visible from offsite, to the extent feasible and practicable. Objective CO 2.3: Conserve areas with significant mineral resources, and provide for extraction and processing of such resources in accordance with applicable laws and land use policies. Policy CO 2.3.1: Identify areas with significant mineral resources that are available for extraction through appropriate zoning or overlay designations. Policy CO 2.3.2: Consider appropriate buffers near mineral resource areas that are planned for extraction, to provide for land use compatibility and prevent the encroachment of incompatible land uses. Policy CO 2.3.3: Through the review process for any mining or mineral extraction proposal, ensure mitigation of impacts from mining and processing of materials on adjacent uses or on the community, including but not limited to air and water pollution, traffic and circulation, noise, and land use incompatibility. Policy CO 2.3.4: Ensure that mineral extraction sites are maintained in a safe and secure manner after cessation of extraction activities, which may include the regulated decommissioning of wells, clean-up of any contaminated soils or materials, closing of mine openings, or other measures as deemed appropriate by the agencies having jurisdiction. Policy CO 2.3.5: Promote remediation and restoration of mined land to a condition that supports beneficial uses, which may include but are not limited to recreational open space, habitat enhancement, groundwater recharge, or urban development. Biological Resources Goal CO 3: Conservation of biological resources and ecosystems, including sensitive habitats and species. Objective CO 3.1: In review of development plans and projects, encourage conservation of existing natural areas and restoration of damaged natural vegetation to provide for habitat and biodiversity. Policy CO 3.1.1: On the Land Use Map and through the development review process, concentrate development into previously developed or urban areas to promote infill development and prevent sprawl and habitat loss, to the extent feasible. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-84 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Policy CO 3.1.2: Avoid designating or approving new development that will adversely impact wetlands, floodplains, threatened or endangered species and habitat, and water bodies supporting fish or recreational uses, and establish an adequate buffer area as deemed appropriate through site specific review. Policy CO 3.1.3: On previously undeveloped sites ("greenfields"), identify biological resources and incorporate habitat preservation measures into the site plan, where appropriate. (This policy will generally not apply to urban infill sites, except as otherwise determined by the reviewing agency). Policy CO 3.1.4: For new development on sites with degraded habitat, include habitat restoration measures as part of the project development plan, where appropriate. Policy CO 3.1.5: Promote the use of site -appropriate native or adapted plant materials, and prohibit use of invasive or noxious plant species in landscape designs. Policy CO 3.1.6: On development sites, preserve and enhance natural site elements including existing water bodies, soil conditions, ecosystems, trees, vegetation and habitat, to the extent feasible. Policy CO 3.1.7: Limit the use of turf -grass on development sites and promote the use of native or adapted plantings to promote biodiversity and natural habitat. Policy CO 3.1.8: On development sites, require tree planting to provide habitat and shade to reduce the heat island effect caused by pavement and buildings. Policy CO 3.1.9: During construction, ensure preservation of habitat and trees designated to be protected through use of fencing and other means as appropriate, so as to prevent damage by grading, soil compaction, pollution, erosion or other adverse construction impacts. Policy CO 3.1.10: To the extent feasible, encourage the use of open space to promote biodiversity. Policy CO 3.1.11: Promote use of pervious materials or porous concrete on sidewalks to allow for planted area infiltration, allow oxygen to reach tree roots (preventing sidewalk lift -up from roots seeking oxygen), and mitigate tree - sidewalk conflicts, in order to maintain a healthy mature urban forest. Objective CO 3.2: Identify and protect areas which have exceptional biological resource value due to a specific type of vegetation, habitat, ecosystem, or location. Policy CO 3.2.1: Protect wetlands from development impacts, with the goal of achieving no net loss (or functional reduction) of jurisdictional wetlands within the planning area. Policy CO 3.2.2: Ensure that development is located and designed to protect oak, and other significant indigenous woodlands. CO-85 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy CO 3.2.3: Ensure protection of any endangered or threatened species or habitat, in conformance with State and federal laws. Policy CO 3.2.4: Protect biological resources in the designated Significant Ecological Areas (SEAs) through the siting and design of development which is highly compatible with the SEA resources. Specific development standards shall be identified to control the types of land use, density, building location and size, roadways and other infrastructure, landscape, drainage, and other elements to assure the protection of the critical and important plant and animal habitats of each SEA. In general, the principle shall be to minimize the intrusion and impacts of development in these areas with sufficient controls to adequately protect the resources. Objective CO 3.3: Protect significant wildlife corridors from encroachment by development that would hinder or obstruct wildlife movement. Policy CO 3.3.1: Protect the banks and adjacent riparian habitat along the Santa Clara River and its tributaries, to provide wildlife corridors. Policy CO 3.3.2: Cooperate with other responsible agencies to protect, enhance, and extend the Rim of the Valley trail system through Elsmere and Whitney Canyons, and other areas as appropriate, to provide both recreational trails and wildlife corridors linking the Santa Susana and San Gabriel Mountains. Policy CO 3.3.3: Identify and protect one or more designated wildlife corridors linking the Los Padres and Angeles National Forests through the Santa Clarita Valley (the San Gabriel-Castaic connection). Policy CO 3.3.4: Support the maintenance of Santa Clarita Woodlands Park, a critical component of a cross -mountain range wildlife habitat corridor linking the Santa Monica Mountains to the Angeles and Los Padres National Forests. Policy CO 3.3.5: Encourage connection of natural open space areas in site design, to allow for wildlife movement. Objective CO 3.4: Ensure that development in the Santa Clarita Valley does not adversely impact habitat within the adjacent National Forest lands. Policy CO 3.4.1: Coordinate with the United States Forest Service on discretionary development projects that may have impacts on the National Forest. Policy CO 3.4.2: Consider principles of forest management in land use decisions for projects adjacent to the National Forest, including limiting the use of invasive species, discouraging off -road vehicle use, maintaining fuel modification zones and fire access roads, and other measures as appropriate, in accordance with the goals set forth in the Angeles National Forest Land Management Plan. Policy CO 3.4.3: On the Land Use Map, maintain low density rural residential and open space uses adjacent to forest land, and protect the urban -forest interface area from overdevelopment. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-86 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Policy CO 3.4.4: Participate as a stakeholder in planning efforts by the United States Forest Service for land uses within the National Forest, providing input as appropriate. Objective CO 3.5: Maintain, enhance, and manage the urban forest throughout developed portions of the Santa Clarita Valley to provide habitat, reduce energy consumption, and create a more livable environment. Policy CO 3.5.1: Continue to plant and maintain trees on public lands and within the public right-of-way to provide shade and walkable streets, incorporating measures to ensure that roots have access to oxygen at tree maturity, such as use of porous concrete. Policy CO 3.5.2: Where appropriate, promote planting of trees that are native or climactically appropriate to the surrounding environment, emphasizing oaks, sycamores, maple, walnut, and other native species in order to enhance habitat, and discouraging the use of introduced species such as eucalyptus, pepper trees, and palms except as ornamental landscape features. Policy CO 3.5.3: Pursuant to the requirements of the zoning ordinance, protect heritage oak trees that, due to their size and condition, are deemed to have exceptional value to the community. Objective CO 3.6: Minimize impacts of human activity and the built environment on natural plant and wildlife communities. Policy CO 3.6.1: Minimize light trespass, sky -glow, glare, and other adverse impacts on the nocturnal ecosystem by limiting exterior lighting to the level needed for safety and comfort; reduce unnecessary lighting for landscaping and architectural purposes, and encourage reduction of lighting levels during non - business nighttime hours. Policy CO 3.6.2: Reduce impervious surfaces and provide more natural vegetation to enhance microclimates and provide habitat. In implementing this policy, consider the following design concepts: a. Consideration of reduced parking requirements, where supported by a parking study and/or through shared use of parking areas; b. Increased use of vegetated areas around parking lot perimeters; such areas should be designed as bioswales or as otherwise determined appropriate to allow surface water infiltration; c. Use of connected open space areas as drainage infiltration areas in lieu of curbed landscape islands, minimizing the separation of natural and landscaped areas into isolated "islands"; d. Breaking up large expanses of paving with natural landscaped areas planted with shade trees to reduce the heat island effect, along with shrubs and groundcover to provide diverse vegetation for habitat. CO-87 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy CO 3.6.3: Restrict use of unauthorized off -road vehicles within sensitive habitat areas through signage, fencing, or other means as appropriate. Policy CO 3.6.4: Provide public information and support with demonstration sites at City facilities on gardening and landscaping techniques to reduce spread of invasive species and pollution from pesticides and fertilizers that threaten natural ecosystems. Policy CO 3.6.5: Ensure revegetation of graded areas and slopes adjacent to natural open space areas with native plants (consistent with fire prevention requirements). Objective CO 3.7: Provide public access to and education about natural habitats and ecosystems. Policy CO 3.7.1: Support the public education programs offered at the Placerita Canyon Nature Center and Ed Davis Park (Sonia Thompson Nature Center). Policy CO 3.7.2: Seek opportunities for partnerships with schools, non-profit organizations, and volunteers, to increase public access to and information about natural areas. Water Resources Goal CO 4: An adequate supply of clean water to meet the needs of present and future residents and businesses, balanced with the needs of natural ecosystems. Objective CO 4.1: Promote water conservation as a critical component of ensuring adequate water supply for Santa Clarita Valley residents and businesses. Policy CO 4.1.1: In coordination with applicable water suppliers, adopt and implement a water conservation strategy for public and private development. Policy CO 4.1.2: Provide examples of water conservation in landscaping through use of low water use landscaping in public spaces such as parks, landscaped medians and parkways, plazas, and around public buildings. Policy CO 4.1.3: Require low water use landscaping in new residential subdivisions and other private development projects, including a reduction in the amount of turf -grass. Policy CO 4.1.4: Provide informational materials to applicants and contractors on the Castaic Lake Water Agency's Landscape Education Program, and/or other information on xeriscape, native California plants, and water -conserving irrigation techniques as materials become available. Policy CO 4.1.5: Promote the use of low -flow and/or waterless plumbing fixtures and appliances in all new non-residential development and residential development of five or more dwelling units. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-88 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Policy CO 4.1.6: Support amendments to the building code that would promote upgrades to water and energy efficiency when issuing permits for renovations or additions to existing buildings. Policy CO 4.1.7: Apply water conservation policies to all pending development projects, including approved tentative subdivision maps to the extent permitted by law. Where precluded from adding requirements by vested entitlements, encourage water conservation in construction and landscape design. Policy CO 4.1.8: Upon the availability of non -potable water services, discourage and consider restrictions on the use of potable water for washing outdoor surfaces. Policy CO-4.1.9: Support the development of additional facilities to store or bank stormwater, particularly on lands located outside the groundwater recharge areas that are depicted on Exhibit CO-3b. Policy CO-4.1.10: Support emerging methods and technologies for the onsite capture, treatment, and infiltration of stormwater and greywater, and amend the City Code to allow these methods and technologies when they are proven to be safe and feasible. Objective CO 4.2: Work with water providers and other agencies to identify and implement programs to increase water supplies to meet the needs of future growth. Policy CO 4.2.1: In cooperation with the Sanitation District and other affected agencies, expand opportunities for use of recycled water for the purposes of landscape maintenance, construction, water recharge, and other uses as appropriate. Policy CO 4.2.2: Require new development to provide the infrastructure needed for delivery of recycled water to the property for use in irrigation, even if the recycled water main delivery lines have not yet reached the site, where deemed appropriate by the reviewing authority. Policy CO 4.2.3: Promote the installation of rainwater capture and gray water systems in new development for irrigation, where feasible and practicable. Policy CO 4.2.4: Protect areas with substantial potential for groundwater recharge as depicted on Exhibit CO-3b, and promote recharge of groundwater basins throughout the watershed (excluding the river bed) to assure water quality and quantity. The greatest consideration should be given to the Alluvial Aquifer and Saugus Aquifer groundwater recharge areas, followed by groundwater recharge areas for other groundwater basins that are designated by the State of California. Policy CO 4.2.5: Participate and cooperate with other agencies to complete, adopt, and implement an Integrated Regional Water Management Plan to build a diversified portfolio of water supply, water quality, and resource stewardship priorities for the Santa Clarita Valley. CO-89 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy CO 4.2.6: Require that all new development proposals demonstrate a sufficient and sustainable water supply prior to approval. Objective CO 4.3: Limit disruption of natural hydrology by reducing impervious cover, increasing on -site infiltration, and managing stormwater runoff at the source. Policy CO 4.3.1: On undeveloped sites proposed for development, promote onsite stormwater infiltration through design techniques such as pervious paving, draining runoff into bioswales or properly designed landscaped areas, preservation of natural soils and vegetation, and limiting impervious surfaces. Policy CO 4.3.2: On previously developed sites proposed for major alteration, provide stormwater management improvements to restore natural infiltration, as required by the reviewing authority. Policy CO 4.3.3: Provide flexibility for design standards for street width, sidewalk width, parking, and other impervious surfaces when it can be shown that such reductions will not have negative impacts and will provide the benefits of stormwater retention, groundwater infiltration, reduction of heat islands, enhancement of habitat and biodiversity, saving of significant trees or planting of new trees, or other environmental benefit. Policy CO 4.3.4: Encourage and promote the use of new materials and technology for improved stormwater management, such as pervious paving, green roofs, rain gardens, and vegetated swales. Policy CO 4.3.5: Where detention and retention basins or ponds are required, seek methods to integrate these areas into the landscaping design of the site as amenity areas, such as a network of small ephemeral swales treated with attractive planting. Policy CO 4.3.6: Discourage the use of mounded turf and lawn areas which drain onto adjacent sidewalks and parking lots, replacing these areas with landscape designs that retain runoff and allow infiltration. Policy CO 4.3.7: Reduce the amount of pollutants entering the Santa Clara River and its tributaries by capturing and treating stormwater runoff at the source, to the extent possible. Objective CO 4.4: Promote measures to enhance water quality by addressing sources of water pollution. Policy CO 4.4.1: Cooperate with the Los Angeles County Sanitation District and Regional Water Quality Control Board as appropriate to achieve Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) standards for chlorides in the Santa Clara River. Policy CO 4.4.2: Support the cooperative efforts of property owners and appropriate agencies to eliminate perchlorate contamination on the Whittaker- Bermite property and eliminate the use of any industrial chemicals or wastes in a manner that threatens groundwater quality. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-90 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Policy CO 4.4.3: Discourage the use of chemical fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides in landscaping to reduce water pollution by substances hazardous to human health and natural ecosystems. Policy CO 4.4.4: Promote the extension of sanitary sewers for all urban uses and densities, to protect groundwater quality, where feasible. Cultural and Historical Resources Goal CO 5: Protection of historical and culturally significant resources that contribute to community identity and a sense of history. Objective CO 5.1: Protect sites identified as having local, state, or national significance as a cultural or historical resource. Policy CO 5.1.1: For sites identified on the Cultural and Historical Resources Map (Exhibit CO-6), review appropriate documentation prior to issuance of any permits for grading, demolition, alteration, and/or new development, to avoid significant adverse impacts. Such documentation may include cultural resource reports, environmental impact reports, or other information as determined to be adequate by the reviewing authority. Policy CO 5.1.2: Review any proposed alterations to cultural and historic sites identified in Table Co-1 or other sites which are so designated, based on the guidelines contained in the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Properties (Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1, Part 68, also known as 36 CFR 68), or other adopted City guidelines. Policy CO 5.1.3: As new information about other potentially significant historic and cultural sites becomes available, update the Cultural and Historical Resources Inventory and apply appropriate measures to all identified sites to protect their historical and cultural integrity. Objective CO 5.2: Protect and enhance the historic character of Downtown Newhall. Policy CO 5.2.1: In keeping with the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan policies, ensurie that the scale and character of new development is compatible with and does not detract from the context of historic buildings and block patterns. Policy CO 5.2.2: Support expansion and enhancement of a City of Santa Clarita historical park adjacent to the Pioneer Oil Refinery to illustrate historic oil operations in the Santa Clarita Valley. Policy CO 5.2.3: Ensure that all aspects of community design in Newhall, including street furniture, lighting, trash collection and storage areas, seating, and other accessory structures, are of a design and scale appropriate for the historic character of the district, while maintaining a sense of authenticity. Policy CO 5.2.4: Continue to support "Heritage Junction" and the historical museum within William S. Hart Park as historical resources that illustrate the various phases of settlement within the Santa Clarita Valley. CO-91 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Objective CO 5.3: Encourage conservation and preservation of Native American cultural places, including prehistoric, archaeological, cultural, spiritual, and ceremonial sites on both public and private lands, throughout all stages of the planning and development process. Policy CO 5.3.1: For any proposed general plan amendment, specific plan, or specific plan amendment, notify and consult with any California Native American tribes on the contact list maintained by the California Native American Heritage Commission that have traditional lands located within the City's jurisdiction, regarding any potential impacts to Native American resources from the proposed action, pursuant to State guidelines. Policy CO 5.3.2: For any proposed development project that may have a potential impact on Native American cultural resources, provide notification to California Native American tribes on the contact list maintained by the Native American Heritage Commission that have traditional lands within the City's jurisdiction, and consider the input received prior to a discretionary decision. Policy CO 5.3.3: Review and consider a cultural resources study for any new grading or development in areas identified as having a high potential for Native American resources, and incorporate recommendations into the project approval as appropriate to mitigate impacts to cultural resources. Scenic Resources Goal CO 6: Preservation of scenic features that keep the Santa Clarita Valley beautiful and enhance quality of life, community identity, and property values. Objective CO 6.1: Protect the scenic character of local topographic features. Policy CO 6.1.1: Protect scenic canyons, as described in Part I of this element, from overdevelopment and environmental degradation. Policy CO 6.1.2: Preserve significant ridgelines, as shown on the Exhibit CO-7, as a scenic backdrop throughout the community by maintaining natural grades and vegetation. Policy CO 6.1.3: Protect the scenic quality of unique geologic features throughout the planning area, such as Vasquez Rocks, by including these features within park and open space land, where possible. Objective CO 6.2: Protect the scenic character of view corridors. Policy CO 6.2.1: Where feasible, encourage development proposals to have varied building heights to maintain view corridor sight lines. Objective CO 6.3: Protect the scenic character of major water bodies. Policy CO 6.3.1: Support the efforts of Los Angeles County to protect the shores of Castaic Lake to preserve its scenic quality from development. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-92 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Policy CO 6.3.2: Protect the banks of the Santa Clara River and its major tributaries through open space designations and property acquisitions, where feasible, to protect and enhance the scenic character of the river valley. Objective CO 6.4: Protect the scenic character of oak woodlands, coastal sage, and other habitats unique to the Santa Clarita Valley. Policy CO 6.4.1: Preserve scenic habitat areas within designated open space or parkland, wherever possible. Policy CO 6.4.2: Through the development review process, ensure that new development preserves scenic habitat areas to the extent feasible. Objective CO 6.5: Maintain the scenic character of designated routes, gateways, and vista points along roadways. Policy CO 6.5.1: In approving new development projects, consider scenic views at major entry points to the Santa Clarita Valley, including gateways located at the Newhall Pass along Lake Hughes Road, Route 126, Bouquet Canyon Road, Sierra Highway, State Route 14, and other locations as deemed appropriate by the reviewing authority. Policy CO 6.5.2: Establish scenic routes in appropriate locations as determined by the reviewing agency, and adopt guidelines for these routes to maintain their scenic character. Objective CO 6.6: Limit adverse impacts by humans on the scenic environment. Policy CO 6.6.1: Enhance views of the night sky by reducing light pollution through use of light screens, downward directed lights, minimized reflective paving surfaces, and reduced lighting levels, as deemed appropriate by the reviewing authority. Policy CO 6.6.2: Improve views of the Santa Clarita Valley through various policies to minimize air pollution and smog, as contained throughout the General Plan. Policy CO 6.6.3: Restrict establishment of billboards throughout the planning area, and continue abatement efforts to remove existing billboards that impact scenic views. Policy CO 6.6.4: Where appropriate, require new development to be sensitive to scenic viewpoints or viewsheds through building design, site layout and building heights. Policy CO 6.6.5: Encourage undergrounding of all new utility lines, and promote undergrounding of existing lines where feasible and practicable. CO-93 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Air Quality Goal CO 7: Clean air to protect human health and support healthy ecosystems. Objective CO 7.1: Reduce air pollution from mobile sources. Policy CO 7.1.1: Through the mixed land use patterns and multi -modal circulation policies set forth in the Land Use and Circulation Elements, limit air pollution from transportation sources. Policy CO 7.1.2: Support the use of alternative fuel vehicles. Policy CO 7.1.3: Support alternative travel modes and new technologies, including infrastructure to support alternative fuel vehicles, as they become commercially available. Objective CO 7.2: Apply guidelines to protect sensitive receptors from sources of air pollution as developed by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), where appropriate. Policy CO 7.2.1: Ensure adequate spacing of sensitive land uses from the following sources of air pollution: high traffic freeways and roads; distribution centers; truck stops; chrome plating facilities; dry cleaners using perchloroethylene; and large gas stations, as recommended by CARB. Objective CO 7.3: Coordinate with other agencies to plan for and implement programs for improving air quality in the South Coast Air Basin. Policy CO 7.3.1: Coordinate with local, regional, state, and federal agencies to develop and implement regional air quality policies and programs. Greenhouse Gas Reduction Goal CO 8: Development designed to improve energy efficiency, reduce energy and natural resource consumption, and reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. Objective CO 8.1: Comply with the requirements of State law, including AB 32, SB 375 and implementing regulations, to reach targeted reductions of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Policy CO 8.1.1: Create and adopt a Climate Action Plan within 18 months of the OVOV adoption date of the City's General Plan Update that meets State requirements and includes the following components: a. Plans and programs to reduce GHG emissions to State -mandated targets, including enforceable reduction measures; i. The CAP may establish goals beyond 2020, which are consistent with the applicable laws and regulations referenced in this paragraph and based on current science; DRAFT May, 2011 CO-94 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space ii. The CAP shall include specific and general tools and strategies to reduce the City's current and projected 2020 inventory and to meet the CAPs target for GHG reductions by 2020; iii. The CAP shall consider, among other GHG reduction strategies, the feasibility of development fees; incentive and rebate programs; and, voluntary and mandatory reduction strategies in areas of energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation and efficiency, solid waste, land use and transportation. b. Mechanisms to ensure regular review of progress towards the emission reduction targets established by the Climate Action Plan; c. Procedures for reporting on progress to officials and the public; d. Procedures for revising the plan as needed to meet GHG emissions reduction targets; and, e. Allocation of funding and staffing for Plan implementation; After adoption of the Climate Action Plan, amend this General Plan if necessary to ensure consistency with the adopted Climate Action Plan. Policy CO 8.1.2: Participate in the preparation of a regional Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) Plan to meet regional targets for greenhouse gas emission reductions, as required by SB 375. Policy CO 8.1.3: Revise codes and ordinances as needed to address energy conservation, including but not limited to the following: a. Strengthen building codes for new construction and renovation to achieve a higher level of energy efficiency, with a goal of exceeding energy efficiency beyond that required by Title 24; b. Adopt a Green Building Program to encourage green building practices and materials, along with appropriate ordinances and incentives; c. Require orientation of buildings to maximize passive solar heating during cool seasons, avoid solar heat gain during hot periods, enhance natural ventilation, promote effective use of daylight, and optimize opportunities for on -site solar generation; d. Encourage mitigation of the "heat island" effect through use of cool roofs, light-colored paving, and shading to reduce energy consumption for air conditioning. Policy CO 8.1.4: Provide information and education to the public about energy conservation and local strategies to address climate change. Policy CO 8.1.5: Coordinate various activities within the community and appropriate agencies related to GHG emissions reduction activities. CO-95 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Objective CO 8.2: Reduce energy and materials consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in public uses and facilities. Policy CO 8.2.1: Ensure that all new City buildings, and all major renovations and additions, meet adopted green building standards, with a goal of achieving the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver rating or above, or equivalent where appropriate. Policy CO 8.2.2: Ensure energy efficiency of existing public buildings through energy audits and repairs, and retrofit buildings with energy efficient heating and air conditioning systems and lighting fixtures, with a goal of completing energy repairs in City facilities by 2012. Policy CO 8.2.3: Support purchase of renewable energy for public buildings, which may include installing solar photovoltaic systems to generate electricity for city buildings and operations and other methods as deemed appropriate and feasible, in concert with significant energy conservation efforts. Policy CO 8.2.4: Establish maximum lighting levels for public facilities, and encourage reduction of lighting levels to the level needed for security purposes after business hours, in addition to use of downward -directed lighting and use of low -reflective paving surfaces. Policy CO 8.2.5: Support installation of photovoltaic and other renewable energy equipment on public facilities, in concert with significant energy conservation efforts. Policy CO 8.2.6: Promote use of solar lighting in parks and along paseos and trails, where practical. Policy CO 8.2.7: Support the use of sustainable alternative fuel vehicles for machinery and fleets, where practical, by evaluating fuel sources, manufacturing processes, maintenance costs and vehicle lifetime use. Policy CO 8.2.8: Promote the purchase of energy -efficient and recycled products, and vendors and contractors who use energy -efficient vehicles and products, consistent with adopted purchasing policies. Policy CO 8.2.9: Reduce heat islands through installation of trees to shade parking lots and hardscapes, and use of light-colored reflective paving and roofing surfaces. Policy CO 8.2.10: Support installation of energy -efficient traffic control devices, street lights, and parking lot lights. Policy CO 8.2.11: Implement recycling in all public buildings, parks, and public facilities, including for special events. Policy CO 8.2.12: Provide ongoing training to appropriate City employees on sustainable planning, building, and engineering practices. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-96 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Policy CO 8.2.13: Support trip reduction strategies for employees as described in the Circulation Element. Policy CO 8.2.14: Reduce extensive heat gain from paved surfaces through development standards wherever feasible. Objective CO 8.3: Encourage the following green building and sustainable development practices on private development projects, to the extent reasonable and feasible. Policy CO 8.3.1: Evaluate site plans proposed for new development based on energy efficiency pursuant to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards for New Construction and Neighborhood Development, including the following: a) location efficiency; b) environmental preservation; c) compact, complete, and connected neighborhoods; and d) resource efficiency, including use of recycled materials and water. Policy CO 8.3.2: Promote construction of energy efficient buildings through requirements for LEED certification or through comparable alternative requirements as adopted by local ordinance. Policy CO 8.3.3: Promote energy efficiency and water conservation upgrades to existing non-residential buildings at the time of major remodel or additions. Policy CO 8.3.4: Encourage new residential development to include on -site solar photovoltaic systems, or pre -wiring, in at least 50% of the residential units, in concert with other significant energy conservation efforts. Policy CO 8.3.5: Encourage on -site solar generation of electricity in new retail and office commercial buildings and associated parking lots, carports, and garages, in concert with other significant energy conservation efforts. Policy CO 8.3.6: Require new development to use passive solar heating and cooling techniques in building design and construction, which may include but are not be limited to building orientation, clerestory windows, skylights, placement and type of windows, overhangs to shade doors and windows, and use of light colored roofs, shade trees, and paving materials. Policy CO 8.3.7: Encourage the use of trees and landscaping to reduce heating and cooling energy loads, through shading of buildings and parking lots. Policy CO 8.3.8: Encourage energy -conserving heating and cooling systems and appliances, and energy -efficiency in windows and insulation, in all new construction. Policy CO 8.3.9: Limit excessive lighting levels, and encourage a reduction of lighting when businesses are closed to a level required for security. Policy CO 8.3.10: Provide incentives and technical assistance for installation of energy -efficient improvements in existing and new buildings. CO-97 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy CO 8.3.11: Consider allowing carbon off -sets for large development projects, if appropriate, which may include funding off -site projects or purchase of credits for other forms of mitigation, provided that any such mitigation shall be measurable and enforceable. Policy CO 8.3.12: Reduce extensive heat gain from paved surfaces through development standards wherever feasible. Objective CO 8.4: Reduce energy consumption for processing raw materials by promoting recycling and materials recovery by all residents and businesses throughout the community. Policy CO 8.4.1: Encourage and promote the location of enclosed materials recovery facilities (MRF) within the Santa Clarita Valley. Policy CO 8.4.2: Adopt mandatory residential recycling programs for all residential units, including single-family and multi -family dwellings. Policy CO 8.4.3: Allow and encourage composting of greenwaste, where appropriate. Policy CO 8.4.4: Promote commercial and industrial recycling, including recycling of construction and demolition debris. Policy CO 8.4.5: Develop and implement standards for refuse and recycling receptacles and enclosures to accommodate recycling in all development. Policy CO 8.4.6: Introduce and assist with the placement of receptacles for recyclable products in public places, including at special events. Policy CO 8.4.7: Provide information to the public on recycling opportunities and facilities, and support various locations and events to promote public participation in recycling. Policy CO 8.4.8: Take an active role in promoting, incubating, and encouraging businesses that would qualify under the Recycling Market Development Zone program or equivalent, including those that manufacture products made from recycled products, salvage, and resource recovery business parks. Park, Recreation, and Trail Facilities Goal CO 9: Equitable distribution of park, recreational, and trail facilities to serve all areas and demographic needs of existing and future residents. Objective CO 9.1: Develop new parklands throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, with priority given to locations that are not now adequately served, and encompassing a diversity of park types and functions (including passive and active areas) in consideration of the recreational needs of residents to be served by each park, based on the following guidelines: DRAFT May, 2011 CO-98 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Policy CO 9.1.1: Common park standards shall be developed and applied throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, consistent with community character objectives, with a goal of five acres of parkland per 1,000 population. Policy CO 9.1.2: A range of parkland types, sizes, and uses shall be provided to accommodate recreational and leisure activities. Policy CO 9.1.3: Provide local and community parks within a reasonable distance of residential neighborhoods. Policy CO 9.1.4: Explore and implement opportunities to share facilities with school districts, utility easements, flood control facilities, and other land uses, where feasible. Policy CO 9.1.5: Promote development of more playfields for youth and adult sports activities, in conjunction with tournament facilities, where needed. Policy CO 9.1.6: Continue to upgrade and expand existing facilities to enhance service to residents, including extension of hours through lighted facilities, where appropriate. Policy CO 9.1.7: Establish appropriate segments of the Santa Clara River as a recreational focal point, encouraging a beneficial mix of passive and active recreational uses with natural ecosystems by providing buffers for sensitive habitat. Policy CO 9.1.8: Make available easily accessible park and recreation facilities throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. Policy CO 9.1.9: Ensure that new development projects provide a fair share towards park and recreational facilities, phased to meet needs of residents as dwelling units become occupied, pursuant to the Quimby Act (California Government Code Section 66477) and local ordinances as applicable. Policy CO 9.1.10: Where appropriate, use flexible planning and zoning tools to obtain adequate park and open space land, including but not limited to specific plans, development agreements, clustering, and transfer of development rights. Policy CO 9.1.11: Locate and design parks to address potential adverse impacts on adjacent development from noise, lights, flying balls, traffic, special events, and other operational activities and uses. Policy CO 9.1.12: Establish minimum design standards for both public and private parks to provide for public safety and welfare through lighting, access, crime prevention through design, equipment, visibility, and other aspects of design. Policy CO 9.1.13: Provide passive areas for natural habitat, meditation, bird - watching, and similar activities in parks, where feasible and appropriate, including meditation gardens, wildflower and butterfly gardens, botanic gardens, and similar features. CO-99 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy CO 9.1.14: Ensure adequate park maintenance, and encourage programs for volunteers to assist in maintaining local parks, where feasible and appropriate. Policy CO 9.1.15: Provide a wide variety of recreational programs geared to all ages and abilities, including passive, active, educational, and cultural programs. Objective CO 9.2: Recognize that trails are an important recreational asset that, when integrated with transportation systems, contribute to mobility throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. Policy CO 9.2.1: Plan for a continuous and unified multi -use (equestrian, bicycling and pedestrian/hiking) trail network for a variety of users, to be developed with common standards, in order to unify Santa Clarita Valley communities and connect with County, regional, State trails and Federal such as the Pacific Crest Trail. Policy CO 9.2.2: Provide trail connections between paseos, bike routes, schools, parks, community services, streets and neighborhoods. Policy CO 9.2.3: Use the Santa Clara River as a major recreational focal point for development of an integrated system of bikeways and trails, while protecting sensitive ecological areas. Policy CO 9.2.4: Ensure that new development projects provide trail connections to local and regional trail systems, where appropriate. Policy CO 9.2.5: Promote the expansion of multi -use trails within rural areas of the Santa Clarita Valley. Policy CO 9.2.6: Provide trails to scenic vistas and viewpoints. Policy CO 9.2.7: Explore joint use opportunities to combine trail systems with utility easements, flood control facilities, open spaces, or other uses, where feasible. Policy CO 9.2.8: Ensure that trails are designed to protect habitat, ecosystems, and water quality. Policy CO 9.2.9: Pursue funding for trail maintenance and encourage volunteer participation in trail maintenance programs, where appropriate. Open Space Goal CO 10: Preservation of open space to meet the community's multiple objectives for resource preservation. Objective CO 10.1: Identify areas throughout the Santa Clarita Valley which should be preserved as open space in order to conserve significant resources for long-term community benefit. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-100 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Policy CO 10.1.1: Provide and protect a natural greenbelt buffer area surrounding the entire Santa Clarita Valley, which includes the Angeles National Forest, Santa Susana, San Gabriel, and Sierra Pelona Mountains, as a regional recreational, ecological, and aesthetic resource. Policy CO 10.1.2: The Santa Clara River corridor and its major tributaries shall be preserved as open space to accommodate storm water flows and protect critical plant and animal species, as follows: a. Uses and improvements within the corridor shall be limited to those that benefit the community's use of the river in its natural state. b. Development on properties adjacent to, but outside of the defined primary river corridor shall be: Located and designed to protect the river's water quality, plants, and animal habitats by controlling the type and density of uses, drainage runoff (water treatment) and other relevant elements; and ii. Designed to maximize the full range of river amenities, including views and recreational access, while minimizing adverse impacts to the river. Policy CO 10.1.3: Through dedications and acquisitions, obtain open space needed to preserve and protect wildlife corridors and habitat, which may include land within SEA's, wetlands, woodlands, water bodies, and areas with threatened or endangered flora and fauna. Policy CO 10.1.4: Maintain and acquire, where appropriate, open space to preserve cultural and historical resources. Policy CO 10.1.5: Maintain open space corridors along canyons and ridgelines as a way of delineating and defining communities and neighborhoods, providing residents with access to natural areas, and preserving scenic beauty. Policy CO 10.1.6: Delineate open space uses within hazardous areas to protect public health and safety, which may include areas subject to seismic rupture, flooding, wildfires, or unsafe levels of noise or air pollution. Policy CO 10.1.7: Acquire adequate open space for recreational uses, coordinating location and type of open space with master plans for trails and parks. Policy CO 10.1.8: Encourage the use of vacant lots as community gardens, where appropriate. Policy CO 10.1.9: Preserve forested areas, agricultural lands, wildlife habitat and corridors, wetlands, watersheds, groundwater recharge areas, and other open space that provides natural carbon sequestration benefits. CO-101 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy CO 10.1.10: Ensure that the open space acquisition plan developed pursuant to the 2007 Open Space District formation conforms to General Plan goals and objectives. Policy CO 10.1.11: Partner with conservation agencies and other entities to acquire and maintain open space, combining funding and other resources for joint -use projects, where appropriate. Policy CO 10.1.12: Identify, pursue, and ensure adequate funding sources to maintain open space areas. Policy CO 10.1.13: Provide reasonable accommodation to ensure that residents throughout the Santa Clarita Valley have equal access to open space areas, in consideration of the health benefits to residents from access to nature. Policy CO 10.1.14: Protect open space from human activity that may harm or degrade natural areas, including but not limited to off road motorized vehicles, vandalism, campfires, overuse, pets, noise, excessive lighting, dumping, or other similar activities. Policy CO 10.1.15: In conformance with State law, ensure that any action by which open space land is acquired or disposed of, restricted, or regulated, be consistent with the open space plan contained in this Element. Policy CO 10.1.16: In conformance with State law, ensure that all development is consistent with the open space plan contained in this Element. Policy CO 10.1.17: Allow alternative energy projects in areas designated for open space, where consistent with other uses and values. Objective CO 10.2: Ensure the inclusion of adequate open space within development projects. Policy CO 10.2.1: Encourage provision of vegetated open space on a development project's site, which may include shallow wetlands and ponds, drought tolerant landscaping, and pedestrian hardscape that includes vegetated areas. Policy CO 10.2.2: Encourage that open space provided within development projects be usable and accessible, rather than configured in unusable strips and left -over remnants, and that open space areas are designed to connect to each other and to adjacent open spaces, to the extent reasonable and practical. Policy CO 10.2.3: Where feasible, integrate open space areas with neighboring uses and parcels, to create shared amenities and green spaces. Policy CO 10.2.4: Seek opportunities to incorporate site features into the open space of a project design, which may include significant trees, vegetation, terrain, or water features, to provide thermal, acoustic, and aesthetic benefits. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-102 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space Policy CO 10.2.5: Where appropriate, allow density transfers and clustering to encourage retention of open space provided all residential lots meet the applicable minimum lot size requirements of the Land Use Element and the Zoning Ordinance. PART 3: IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CONSERVATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT The City of Santa Clarita will implement the goals, objectives and policies of the Conservation and Open Space Element of the City of Santa Clarita General Plan through the following actions. City Task 1: General Plan Monitoring and Coordination 1.1 Periodically review the General Plan to ensure consistency with changing conditions, needs and policies related to the resource conservation and open space and process amendments as deemed appropriate. 1.2 In considering any future proposals to amend the Land Use Map, consider open space needs as a major priority in the planning for the Santa Clarita Valley. 1.3 Coordinate with the County of Los Angeles on any pending General Plan Amendments the may affect the open space and conservation goals of this Element 1.4 In decisions regarding acquisition or disposal of real property, ensure consistency with the open space and conservation goals of this Element. 1.5 Require that master plans and improvements for streets and highways, drainage and flood control facilities, sewers and water systems and other infrastructure are consistent with the goals and policies of this Element. City Task 2: Unified Development Code Updates 2.1 Revise the City's Unified Development Code and adopt other development -related ordinances as needed to ensure consistency with the goals and policies of this element, including requirements for increased energy conservation, water conservation, stormwater management, protection of night skies from light pollution, and environmentally -responsible design and building construction. 2.2 Revise the Official Zoning Map to reflect open space for resource conservation and recreation, consistent with the Land Use Map. 2.3 Adopt a green building program based on Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards, Green Build, or equivalent. 2.4 In cooperation with the County, adopt consistent guidelines for hillside development and ridgeline protection. City Task 3: Measures to Address Climate Change 3.1 According to State law, complete a Climate Action Plan (CAP), including a baseline inventory of Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) from all sources. CO-103 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan 3.2 In the CAP, adopt reduction targets and deadlines for GHG emissions, enforceable GHG emission reduction measures, consistent with the goals of AB 32. 3.3 Regularly review progress made toward adopted reduction targets for GHG emission. 3.4 Regularly report on reduction measures to the City Council, public, and other applicable agencies. 3.5 Allocate adequate funding and provide adequate staffing to oversee implementation of the Climate Action Plan. 3.6 Consider joining the U. S. Mayor's Climate Protection Agreement. 3.7 Evaluate the feasibility of purchasing renewable energy as part of the City's supply. 3.8 Evaluate City buildings and facilities and retrofit as needed to ensure energy and water efficiency. 3.9 Design all new City buildings and facilities based on LEED principles. 3.10 Replace traditional incandescent traffic signals, street lights, and public parking lot lights with light emitting diode (LED) or other low voltage fixtures, and coordinate signal timing to reduce vehicle idling. 3.11 Reduce lighting levels in City facilities after business hours to the level needed for security only. 3.12 Continue implementing trip reduction programs for City employees. 3.13. Purchase zero emission vehicles, (ZEV), clean fuel and/or low emissions vehicles for City fleets and equipment. 3.14 Update and implement the Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy, giving precedence to environmentally responsible vendors, contractors, and products. 3.15 Maintain or enhance, as needed, shade trees in public parking lots to mitigate the heat island effect. 3.16 Provide staff training on environmentally responsible building requirements and design procedures. City Task 4: Development Review Process 4.1 Through the development and environmental review process, ensure that proposed development projects and subdivisions are consistent with the maps, goals, and policies of this element, including but not limited to energy and water conservation, low impact development techniques for handling stormwater, protection of night skies, trees and habitat, clustering development to protect open space, and preservation of resources. 4.2 In cooperation with the County, coordinate review of major development projects, such as specific plans, that may have regional impacts, in order to ensure consistency of such projects with the maps, goals, and policies of this element. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-104 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space City Task 5: Water Conservation 5.1 Evaluate City -owned facilities for water use and conservation opportunities, and program funding for improvements annually in the Capital Improvement Program to retrofit landscaping and fixtures as needed to reduce consumption. 5.2 For all new landscaping within the public right-of-way, encourage the use of drought tolerant landscape techniques, including hardscape, plant material, evapotranspiration controllers, and smart irrigation systems. 5.3 Establish a program to convert existing turf within the public right of way to drought resistant landscaping within a specified time period, and allocate funds annually to implement the program. 5.4 For all existing and new City -owned buildings, grounds, and facilities that are not used for recreational purposes, limit the amount of site area planted with turf, and landscape these open areas using water conservation techniques. 5.5 For City -owned parks, sports fields, and recreational facilities, evaluate the feasibility of converting turf grass to artificial turf. 5.6 In City -owned buildings and facilities, evaluate the feasibility of installing automatic faucets and waterless urinals. 5.7 Create opportunities to use harvested reclaimed water for landscaping on City -owned facilities. 5.8 Provide information to the public on suitable plants and landscape techniques for water conservation, through making such information available to homeowners and development applicants. 5.9 Promote the use of drought resistant landscaping on new development, through adoption of an ordinance and the design review process. 5.10 Through the Sanitation Districts expand the amount of recycled water available to various users. City Task 6: Biological Resource Conservation 6.1 Continue implementing the City's Urban Forestry Program, including maintenance of existing trees on public lands and rights -of -way, and planting of new trees. Provide adequate space for mature tree roots, or pave with porous concrete to ensure a healthy mature urban forest. 6.2 Recognize the Significant Ecological Area designations of Los Angeles County, and ensure adherence to SEA standards as a minimum condition of development approval in these areas. 6.3 Encourage and facilitate mitigation land banking in Significant Ecological Areas for resource protection. CO-105 DRAFT May, 2011 Conservation and Open Space City of Santa Clarita General Plan 6.4 Continue to protect riparian habitats along the Santa Clara River, oak woodlands, wildlife corridors, and other biological resources through property acquisition for open space and conservation purposes. 6.5 Protect existing trees on development sites through a tree preservation ordinance and the development review process, and ensure new tree planting as a condition of development approval, where appropriate. City Task 7: Waste Reduction 7.1 Encourage recycling of construction and demolition debris. 7.2 Encourage recycling receptacles in all multi -family and non-residential development, through the design review process and code requirements. 7.3 Implement recycling programs in all City facilities. 7.4 Promote recycling at special events with 2,000 or more attendees per day of the event. 7.5 Encourage and promote waste reduction by businesses within the City. City Task 8: Parks, Recreation, Trails, and Open Space 8.1 Complete and implement a revised Park and Recreation Master Plan for the City. 8.2 Continue implementing the Santa Clarita River Plan through acquisition and maintenance of open space along the river. 8.3 Implement the Non -Motorized Transportation Plan, including master plans for trails; expand and enhance the trail system pursuant to this plan. 8.4 Continue to implement the Open Space Acquisition program passed by the voters through a bond measure in 2007. 8.5 Seek opportunities to partner with other agencies on open space acquisition and maintenance. 8.6 Require open space dedication from developers as a condition of project approval, where appropriate. 8.7 Continue to maintain City -owned park and open space lands. 8.8 In cooperation with Los Angeles County, continue to maintain and expand the recreational trail system in the Santa Clarita Valley. 8.9 In cooperation with Los Angeles County, work towards establishing a common standard for open space throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. 8.10 Continue providing recreational programs that meet the needs of all economic and demographic segments of the population, and expand these programs as needed to serve additional residents. DRAFT May, 2011 CO-106 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Conservation and Open Space City Task 9: Historic Preservation 9.1 Adopt a Historic Preservation Ordinance for the City. As an interim measure, follow guidelines to protect historic structures and sites from unauthorized grading, demolition, modification, or new construction, except as permitted through review based upon adopted historic preservation guidelines. 9.2 Coordinate with the Native American Heritage Commission on any land use or planning decisions that may affect Native American cultural resources. 9.3 Coordinate with the Santa Clarita Historical Society on any land use or planning decisions that may affect historical sites. 9.4 Prepare a plan for an appropriate historical exhibit at the Pioneer Oil Refinery site. 9.5 Evaluate additional sites with potential for significance as historic or cultural resources, which may include undertaking a comprehensive historic resources survey, and add significant sites to the Inventory of Historical Resources as deemed appropriate. City Task 10: Regulatory Compliance 10.1 For all new development projects, implement the procedures and requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act. 10.2 Implement the procedures and requirements of the State Mining and Reclamation Act for any active or proposed aggregate mining operations in the City. 10.3 Implement procedures and requirements of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) on City projects, and through enforcement of compliance on private construction projects. 10.4 Require compliance with the requirements of the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Game regarding protection of biological species and habitats. 10.5 Ensure compliance with State waste diversion mandates. 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Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z O N M V Ln CO I� N M V N M N M V Ln CO I� W O N M V LP CO I� W O O N M V Ln CO N M V Ln N M V Ln O r o CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Oo Oo 0 0 0 � NNN N N N N M M M M M O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O N N N N M M M V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V Ln o o o o o o o M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O co co co co co co co co co coN N N N N N N N N N N N co coN N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N 1111111111111 ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M O 0 02 O2 0 0 CO I� r O LO LO LO LO O) V O O) CO CO O O O O I� O W r O O O O O O LO O O O r W O O D V O 0 0) 0 0) O) O) N N � � N N N N � � � � � � � � � M N � � � N � � CO O � LO � � � � � � � � � � � � � � N � N N N � O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O ■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 00 V V V OLO LO MCO N LO CCOO OVN O OO ON O O CO O O WV O N O O O CO M CO N O CO M M � O W O VVOM MN VO OO mooONOV MoMM OCO0 oOCO N MM ONM ooN MMVN O oVV oMmN 0OO O0GTNm000rm MO corO O OO OO SO CO CO CO CO CO 0) CO OOOOWVCOCO�rWWWNMVN�rOrrrOO Or.0 .0O .0 .0 .0 .0 .0 .0 .0 ■ 0 m ■ 0 m ■ 0 m ■ 0 m ■ 0 m ■ 0 ■ 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z OO) O N M V LO CO I� W O) ON N M V LO CO I� CON ON OM M NM MM VM OM O N0 M0 V0 LO0 CO0 0 Io W0 O0 O N M V LO CO I� W O2 O N M V 0 N N N N N N N M 0 0 N N N N N 0000000000000000000000 O 00000 O 00000000000000000000000 m 00000 O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M 0000000000000000000000 O 00000 O 00000000000000000000000 O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) co co co co co �o co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co co �o N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N ............... 1111111111111 ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ-ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q J Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U m U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U » » > a » » » ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ�ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ QQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQawQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQQ 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M O O N Ln r O W Ln O O r W W W CO Ln Ln Ln Ln V N V CO N O I� r W N Ln V I� CO M 0 0) O) I� CO O 0 V O) N Ln W N N N N N CIO) N N 0 0 M N N N N N N N r M M N N N N N N N N N m 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 00 - 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 0 0 a ■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 00 W m V m O I o V m 0 0 OO O OO I 0 0 0 M 0 r OO N 0 0 0 O O 0 0 O O N O V 0 M N N O V M M 0 0 0 M M 0 M Ln W O) M CO I� Ln O V O) O) O) O) O V V V V N I 0 V N N N o V o V o I r O O O M V m co M V I� N co O Ln O I� r N CO CO I� CO N N M I� r r Orr r r N co O CO N V W O M V W CO O M Ln O M Ln CO M O Ln O V N CO O M M O) M O O W O O OO co I 0 co co N I� r r r 0 0 0 0 m G O O N O I� r r m O O V M OO W r r r co O O co O co m co V LO N ■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 00 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O 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O) O N V Ln � O N M V Ln CO N N N NCO O O N M M N M M M M M M MOO O N M V V V VM V V V V V V 0 N M 0 0 0 0 0 I. 0OO 0 M 02 IW O2 0 N N N N N N N 000000 O 000000000 O 000000000 O 0000000000000000000000000 000000000 M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M 000000 O 000000000 O 000000000 O 0000000000000000000000000 O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N ......................... 1111111111111 PI p m PI p q -- 0 0 0 O O 0 O O O -------- 11111111 1 z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M O O M O O) OO O N N M O W r W W O OO 0 02 M N V O N OO N OO OO OO V V N M M CO M O) M Ln M M O CO CO W O O N N N CO N O O N O V Ln � � � � � � N N A M N N M N N V M � � C N N N M M � O � M O) M N O) V N N M � � � � N O 0 0 0 0 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 0 0 a ■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 0 m■ 00 CO CO CO N O O N Ln OO OO V V OO OO O O OO M O OO OO M M I� O V N N m O N N I O M O N O OO I� O) CO CO OO O) OO OO O) CO M N V W M W CO CO M O) CO M Ln CO OO Ln m W CO W N O O) V O Ln O V O Ln CO V 0 O N O) V O) W W V Ln O) O) V m N Ln M 0 O) 0 OO V N N M I� V I� r N O co V M O) V 0 0 I� r m O OO 0 OO V CO V 0 OO O N OO M OO I 0 OO 0 O M 0 co O) I� W M N W V W M W r r r r W W W V co O) V M O) W O W M CO CO OO OO OO N V N M V ■ 0 m ■ 0 m ■ 0 m ■ 0 m ■ 0 m ■ 0 ■ 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) O) Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z I� co m O N MT 0 0 N MT 0 0 I co m O N MT 0 0 I co m O N MT 0 0 I co m O N M V 0 0 I� N N N M M M M M M M 0 00000000 N N N N N N N N N N M M M M M M M M M M V V V V O 0000 0000 O 00000 O 00000000 O O O O O O 000000000 O 000000000 O 00 O 0000 r r r r r W co co co co co co co co W W W W co W co co co co co co co co co W co co co co co co co co co W co co S m m m m M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M 0000 O 00000 O 00000000 0000 OOO O O 000000000 O 000000000 O 00 O 0000 mmmm N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N IIIIIIIIIIIIII ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M O O W O O O O N V OO O V V M O O M o o O Ln r r o N V r M o CO M O M Ln W N N N r Ln r r CO N V V M M N N N N N N N Ln N N N N N N N N N N N N O N OO O O N O W N N N N N N N N N N N N O 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 0- o o o 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 o d m ■ 0 M■ 0 M■ 0 M■ 0 M■ 0 M■ 00 OO M CO O CO Om O OO V Ln V V V 0 W 0 M M 0 W V W r Ln W O O 0 r O 0 V 0 0 0 r V 0 0 W N M I� O r CO o V M Ln O)I� CO W r OO)o OONNN oMO oNN NoO) moo O)oM OOoo V Oo OOO) OOM W OO V OO MOOm Ln W V O o r co co OO I� M N N r V M M O) co I� O) o O W M O O) OO co O co O Ln N OO O I� V V I� V OO H M O OO V M O W W co co co co O) N V coW O) O O O co co r co O) O O co CO M OO � O V I� CO O co O r O) O) O) O) I� CO I� r r O) O O O O ■ 0 M■ 0 M■ 0 M■ 0 M■ 0 M■ 00 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M 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N N N N N N N N N N N N.N Sal N N N N N N N N N N APPENDIX 3.18 Draft City of Santa Clarita General Plan Noise Element; February 2009 ONE VALLEY ONE VISION (OVOV) NOISE ELEMENT OF THE GENERAL PLAN TECHNICAL APPENDIX Prepared for the LILBURN CORPORATION 1905 Business Center Drive San Bernardino, CA 92408 Prepared by: Fred Greve, P.E. MESTRE GREVE ASSOCIATES 27812 El Lazo Road Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 February 16, 2009 ONE VALLEY ONE VISION NOISE ELEMENT TECHNICAL APPENDIX Table of Contents 1.0 INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................................... 2 2.0 BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON NOISE.......................................................................................... 3 2.1 Characteristics of Sound.......................................................................................................................................3 2.2 Factors Influencing Human Response to Sound................................................................................................... 6 2.3 Sound Rating Scales............................................................................................................................................. 7 3.0 HEALTH EFFECTS................................................................................................................................11 4.0 Noise Measurements............................................................................................................................16 4.1 Methodology.......................................................................................................................................................16 4.2 Results.................................................................................................................................................................16 4.3 Detailed Discussion of Noise Measurements.....................................................................................................17 5.0 NOISE CONTOURS............................................................................................................................... 23 5.1 Projected Noise Impacts.....................................................................................................................................25 6.0 Noise Issues......................................................................................................................................... 29 6.1 High -Speed Rail Line......................................................................................................................................... 29 6.2 High Density Development Along Railroad.......................................................................................................29 6.3 Mixed -Use Developments.................................................................................................................................. 30 6.4 Agua Dulce Airport............................................................................................................................................ 31 6.5 Magic Mountain..................................................................................................................................................32 6.6 Special Events..................................................................................................................................................... 32 6.7 Emergency Vehicles........................................................................................................................................... 32 7.0 Policy Recommendations.................................................................................................................... 33 7.1 Expand Use of Santa Clarita Noise Element to Entire OVOV...........................................................................33 7.2 Modifications to Compatibility Matrix...............................................................................................................33 7.3 Indoor Noise Criteria.......................................................................................................................................... 34 7.4 Outdoor Noise Criteria....................................................................................................................................... 34 7.5 Development of Sensitive Land Uses Along Interstate 5...................................................................................35 7.6 Disclosure Statements for Special Areas............................................................................................................35 Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page I ��r���.�rrz•�•ir�►rrvr� The Noise Element of a General Plan is a comprehensive program for including noise management in the planning process. It is a tool for local planners to use in achieving and maintaining land uses that are compatible with environmental noise levels. The Noise Element identifies noise sensitive land uses and noise sources, and defines areas of noise impact for the purpose of developing programs to ensure that residents in the One Valley One Vision (OVOV) area will be protected from excessive noise intrusion. The OVOV planning area includes all of the City of Santa Clarita and portions of the County of Los Angeles. The current Noise Element of the General Plan for the City of Santa Clarita was last updated in May 2000. It identifies roadways as the most significant source of noise in the City. While traffic noise is still the major noise source in the City, other sources have become a concern. Additionally, the method for controlling noise and incorporating noise concerns into planning decisions has become more sophisticated over the years since the first Element was adopted. Thus, the decision was made by the City and the County to update the planning for the OVOV area to more effectively protect and plan for the residents of the area. This document constitutes the Technical Appendix of the Noise Element and provides the technical background for the Noise Element. Topics covered in the Technical Appendix include background information on noise, health effects related to noise pollution, methodologies used to monitor and model noise levels throughout the study area, the results of the noise monitoring program, and the noise contours for the area. Additionally, the noise impacts of the OVOV plan are discussed, specific noise issues for the OVOV are addressed, and policy recommendations are made. The Noise Element, including the Technical Appendix, follows the revised State guidelines ("General Plan Guidelines," Governors Office of Planning and Research, October 2003) and State Government Code Section 65302(f). The Element quantifies the community noise environment in terms of noise exposure contours for both near and long-term levels of growth Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 2 and traffic activity. The information will become a guideline for the development of land use policies to achieve compatible land uses and provide baseline levels and noise source identification for local noise ordinance enforcement. 2.0 BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON NOISE This section presents background information on the characteristics of noise and summarizes the methodologies used to study the noise environment. This section will give the reader an understanding of the metrics and methodologies used to assess noise impacts. The section is divided as follows: • Properties of sound that are important for technically describing sound • Acoustic factors influencing human subjective response to sound. • Potential disturbances to humans and health effects due to sound. • Sound rating scales used in this study • Summary of noise assessment criteria 2.1 Characteristics of Sound Sound Level and Frequency. Sound can be technically described in terms of the sound pressure (amplitude) and frequency (similar to pitch). Sound pressure is a direct measure of the magnitude of a sound without consideration for other factors that may influence its perception. The range of sound pressures that occur in the environment is so large that it is convenient to express these pressures as sound pressure levels on a logarithmic scale which compresses the wide range of sound pressures to a more usable range of numbers. The standard unit of measurement of sound is the decibel (dB), which describes the pressure of a sound relative to a reference pressure. The frequency (pitch) of a sound is expressed as Hertz (Hz) or cycles per second. The normal audible frequency for young adults is 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. Community noise, including aircraft and motor vehicles, typically ranges between 50 Hz and 5,000 Hz. The human ear is Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 3 not equally sensitive to all frequencies, with some frequencies judged to be louder for a given signal than others. As a result of this, various methods of frequency weighting have been developed. The most common weighting is the A -weighted noise curve (dBA). The A - weighted decibel scale (dBA) performs this compensation by discriminating against frequencies in a manner approximating the sensitivity of the human ear. In the A -weighted decibel, everyday sounds normally range from 30 dBA (very quiet) to 100 dBA (very loud). Most community noise analyses are based upon the A -weighted decibel scale. Examples of various sound environments, expressed in dBA, are presented in Exhibit 1. Propagation of Noise. Outdoor sound levels decrease as the distance from the source increases, and as a result of wave divergence, atmospheric absorption and ground attenuation. Sound radiating from a source in a homogeneous and undisturbed manner travels in spherical waves. As the sound wave travels away from the source, the sound energy is dispersed over a greater area decreasing the sound power of the wave. Spherical spreading of the sound wave reduces the noise level at a rate of 6 dB per doubling of the distance. Atmospheric absorption also influences the levels received by the observer. The greater the distance traveled, the greater the influence of the atmosphere and the resultant fluctuations. Atmospheric absorption becomes important at distances of greater than 1,000 feet. The degree of absorption varies depending on the frequency of the sound as well as the humidity and temperature of the air. For example, atmospheric absorption is lowest (i.e., sound carries farther) at high humidity and high temperatures. A schematic diagram of how weather including temperature gradients and wind can affect sound propagation is shown in Exhibit 2. Turbulence and gradients of wind, temperature and humidity also play a significant role in determining the degree of attenuation. Certain conditions, such as inversions, can channel or focus the sound waves resulting in higher noise levels than would result from simple spherical spreading. Absorption effects in the atmosphere vary with frequency. The higher frequencies are more readily absorbed than the lower frequencies. Over large distances, the lower frequencies become the dominant sound as the higher frequencies are attenuated. Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 4 p dBA Outdoor Indoor threshold of hearing (0 dBA) �a rustling of leaves (20 dBA) whispering at 5 feet (20 dBA) 40 quiet residential area (40 dBA) a�} refrigerator (50 dBA) 60 air -conditioner at 100 feet (60 dBA) sewing machine (60 dBA) normal conversation (60 to 65 dBA) dishwasher (55-70 dBA) iii car at 25 feet at 65 mph (77 dBA) living room music or TV (70 -75 dBA) 80 diesel truck at 50 feet at 40 mph (84 dBA) garbage disposal (80 dBA) propeller airplane flyover at 1000 feet (88 dBA) ringing telephone (80 dBA) motorcycle at 25 feet (90 dBA) vacuum cleaner (60-85 dBA) lawnmower (96 dBA) shouted conversation (90 dBA) backhoe at 50 feet (75-95 dBA) TQ® snowmobile (100 dBA) pile driver at 50 feet (90-105 dBA) car horn (110 dBA) baby crying on shoulder (110 dBA) rock concert (110 dBA) leaf blower (1 10 dBA) 120 ambulance siren (120 dBA) stock car races (130 dBA) jackhammer (130 dBA) 14© Sources: League Far The Hard Or Hearing, www.lhh.org Handbook of Noise Control, McGraw Hill, Edited byCyril Harris, 1979 Measurements by Mestre Greve Associates Exhibit 1 Typical Sounds Levels in A -Weighted Decibels (dBA) z a V E -`'_ rzo a �_ ' 1A o f11 O C C a) U 2 • O p 4G7m 0G' Ord m () p L p N o p � Q-: Q R1 Gi C j ) L � � `Cj Ql fE i fE U (j U1 t 0 �- RS C �► C _r- B YY ti�J2 L �— qa C 7 (D v >--0 Mp 0=L �Y p R Cam. ism CL E w� oaw so Im ° m.� yCW° U) r C.tm W p T E v �� + o0 � aEr� c� Q L L v W � CD N 7 p ' Q C [If LL d ♦+ cn r y a Q v w L -.� Ci. L o g i p CL O g a E r E E ~ = RN R W C� 'R C - r N c :: � ZI LL 4 ,y r � 4 G `m c W � W N�� Ol C c p W = Q O , U) ' C a 2 y �6 a n U L a ��RS E �v� r� C v 7 0 7 � v Z3 'o Duration of Sound. Annoyance from a noise event increases with increased duration of the noise event, i.e., the longer the noise event, the more annoying it is. The "effective duration" of a sound is the time between when a sound rises above the background sound level until it drops back below the background level. Psycho -acoustic studies have determined the relationship between duration and annoyance and the amount a sound must be reduced to be judged equally annoying for increased duration. Duration is an important factor in describing sound in a community setting. The relationship between duration and noise level is the basis of the equivalent energy principal of sound exposure. Reducing the acoustic energy of a sound by one half results in a 3 dB reduction. Doubling the duration of the sound increases the total energy of the event by 3 dB. This equivalent energy principal is based upon the premise that the potential for a noise to impact a person is dependent on the total acoustical energy content of the noise. Defined in subsequent sections of this study, noise metrics such as CNEL, DNL, LEQ and SENEL are all based upon the equal energy principle. Change in Noise. The concept of change in ambient sound levels can be understood with an explanation of the hearing mechanism's reaction to sound. The human ear is a far better detector of relative differences in sound levels than absolute values of levels. Under controlled laboratory conditions, listening to a steady unwavering pure tone sound that can be changed to slightly different sound levels, a person can just barely detect a sound level change of approximately one decibel for sounds in the mid -frequency region. When ordinary noises are heard, a young healthy ear can detect changes of two to three decibels. A five decibel change is readily noticeable while a 10 decibel change is judged by most people as a doubling or a halving of the loudness of the sound. It is typical in environmental documents to consider a 3 dB change as potentially discernable. Masking Effect. The ability of one sound to limit a listener from hearing another sound is known as the masking effect. The presence of one sound effectively raises the threshold of audibility for the hearing of a second sound. For a signal to be heard, it must exceed the Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 5 threshold of hearing for that particular individual and exceed the masking threshold for the background noise. The masking characteristics of sound depend on many factors including the spectral (frequency) characteristics of the two sounds, the sound pressure levels, and the relative start time of the sounds. Masking effect is greatest when the frequencies of the two sounds are similar or when low frequency sounds mask higher frequency sounds. High frequency sounds do not easily mask low frequency sounds. 2.2 Factors Influencing Human Response to Sound Many factors influence sound perception and annoyance. This includes not only physical characteristics of the sound but also secondary influences such as sociological and external factors. Molino, in the Handbook of Noise Control describes human response to sound in terms of both acoustic and non -acoustic factors. These factors are summarized in Table 1. Sound rating scales are developed in reaction to the factors affecting human response to sound. Nearly all of these factors are relevant in describing how sounds are perceived in the community. Many non -acoustic parameters play a prominent role in affecting individual response to noise. Background sound, an additional acoustic factor not specifically listed, is also important in describing sound in rural settings. Researchers have identified the effects of personal and situational variables on noise annoyance, and have identified a clear association of reported annoyance and various other individual perceptions or beliefs. Thus, it is important to recognize that non -acoustic factors as well as acoustic factors contribute to human response to noise. Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 6 Table 1 Factors that Affect Individual Annoyance to Noise Primary Acoustic Factors Sound Level Frequency Duration Secondary Acoustic Factors Spectral Complexity Fluctuations in Sound Level Fluctuations in Frequency Rise -time of the Noise Localization of Noise Source Non -acoustic Factors Physiology Adaptation and Past Experience How the Listener's Activity Affects Annoyance Predictability of When a Noise will Occur Is the Noise Necessary? Individual Differences and Personality Source: C. Harris, 1979 2.3 Sound Rating Scales The description, analysis, and reporting of community sound levels is made difficult by the complexity of human response to sound and myriad sound -rating scales and metrics developed to describe acoustic effects. Various rating scales approximate the human subjective assessment to the "loudness" or "noisiness" of a sound. Noise metrics have been developed to account for additional parameters such as duration and cumulative effect of multiple events. Noise metrics are categorized as single event metrics and cumulative metrics. Single event metrics describe the noise from individual events, such as one aircraft flyover. Cumulative metrics describe the noise in terms of the total noise exposure throughout the day. Noise Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 7 metrics used in this study are summarized below. First single event metrics are discussed followed by discussions of the cumulative metrics. Single Event Metrics Frequency Weighted Metrics (dBA). In order to simplify the measurement and computation of sound loudness levels, frequency weighted networks have obtained wide acceptance. The A -weighting (dBA) scale has become the most prominent of these scales and is widely used in community noise analysis. Its advantages are that it has shown good correlation with community response and is easily measured. The metrics used in this study are all based upon the dBA scale. Maximum Noise Level or Lmax is the highest noise level reached during a noise event. For example, as an aircraft approaches, the sound of the aircraft begins to rise above ambient noise levels. The closer the aircraft gets the louder it is until the aircraft is at its closest point directly overhead. Then as the aircraft passes, the noise level decreases until the sound level again settles to ambient levels. Such a history of a flyover is plotted at the top of Exhibit 3. It is this metric to which people generally instantaneously respond when an aircraft flyover or a loud vehicle like a truck or motorcycle passes by. Single Event Noise Exposure Level (SENEL) or Sound Exposure Level (SEL) is computed from dBA sound levels, and is used to quantify the total noise associated with an event such as an aircraft overflight or a train pass -by. Referring again to the top of Exhibit 3, the shaded area, or the area within 10 dB of the maximum noise level, is the area from which the SENEL is computed. The SENEL value is the integration of all the acoustic energy contained within the event. Speech and sleep interference research can be assessed relative to Single Event Noise Exposure Level data. The SENEL metric takes into account the maximum noise level of the event and the duration of the event. Single event metrics are a convenient method for describing noise from individual aircraft events. This metric is useful in that airport noise models contain aircraft Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 8 (1) CC) M 0 � r s=� 03 wv0- _ 2 a }� Z L Z Q 0 ; U) 4-1 �, a G a _ o W a 43 i= LU s a3 0- — (V HP l ha-7 ,CIjnoH ��� J• LU 3 W W � IygP11�n�'1 Pow v ■� (n W 0 0 3 x z a) 0 z �� 0 L w� W0) Rio - x x � cm IVgPI����s noise curve data based upon the SENEL metric. In addition, cumulative noise metrics such as LEQ, CNEL and DNL can be computed from SENEL data. Cumulative Metrics Cumulative noise metrics assess community response to noise by including the loudness of the noise, the duration of the noise, the total number of noise events and the time of day these events occur into one single number rating scale. Equivalent Noise Level (Leq) is the sound level corresponding to a steady-state A -weighted sound level containing the same total energy as several SEL events during a given sample period. Leq is the "energy" average noise level during the time period of the sample. It is based on the observation that the potential for noise annoyance is dependent on the total acoustical energy content of the noise. This is graphically illustrated in the middle graph of Exhibit 3. Leq can be measured for any time period, but is typically measured for 15 minutes, 1 hour or 24-hours. Leq for a one hour period is used by the Federal Highway Administration for assessing highway noise impacts. Leq for one hour is called Hourly Noise Level (HNL) in the California Airport Noise Regulations and is used to develop Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) values for aircraft operations. Community Noise Equivalent Level, or CNEL is a 24-hour, time -weighted energy average noise level based on the A -weighted decibel. It is a measure of the overall noise experienced during an entire day. The term "time -weighted" refers to the penalties attached to noise events occurring during certain sensitive time periods. In the CNEL scale, noise occurring between the hours of 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. is penalized by approximately 5 dB. This penalty accounts for the greater potential for noise to cause communication interference during these hours, as well as typically lower ambient noise levels during these hours. Noise that takes place during the night (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) is penalized by 10 dB. This penalty was selected to attempt to account for the higher sensitivity to noise in the nighttime and the expected further decrease in background noise levels that typically occur in the nighttime. Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 9 CNEL is graphically illustrated in the bottom of Exhibit 3. Examples of various noise environments in terms of CNEL are presented in Exhibit 4. CNEL is specified for use in California by local planning agencies in their General Plan Noise Element for land use compatibility planning. The DNL index is very similar to CNEL, but does not include the evening (7 p.m. to 10 p.m.) penalty that is included in CNEL. It does include the nighttime (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) penalty. Typically, DNL is about 1 dB lower than CNEL, although the difference may be greater if there is an abnormal concentration of noise events in the 7 to 10 p.m. time period. DNL is specified for use in all States except California. L(%), Lmax and Lmin are statistical methods of describing noise which accounts for variance in noise levels throughout a given measurement period. L(%) is a way of expressing the noise level exceeded for a percentage of time in a given measurement period. For example since 5 minutes is 25% of 20 minutes, L(25) is the noise level that is equal to or exceeded for five minutes in a twenty minute measurement period. It is L(%) that is used for most Noise Ordinance standards. Lmax represents the loudest noise level that is measured. The Lmax only occurs for a fraction of a second with all the other noise less than the Lmax level. Lmin represents the quietest noise level during a noise measurement. All other noise during the measurement period is louder than the Lmin. Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 10 CNEL Typical Outdoor Location —90— �Apartment Next to Freeway 3/4 Mile From Touchdown at Major Airport Downtown With Some Construction Activity Urban High Density Apartment - ! 0- —Urban Row Housing on Major Avenue —60— �— Old Urban Residential Area —SO �.4111 Wooded Residential Agricultural Crop Land �40 Rural Residential Wilderness Ambient —30— Exhibit 4 Examples of Typical Outdoor CNEL Levels Source: Adapted from "Information on Levels of Environmental Noise Requisite to Protect Public Health and Welfare With an Adequate Marvin of Safety", EPA, 1974 Noise, often described as unwanted sound, is known to have several adverse effects on humans. From these known adverse effects of noise, criteria have been established to help protect the public health and safety and prevent disruption of certain human activities. These criteria are based on effects of noise on people such as hearing loss (not a factor with typical community noise), communication interference, sleep interference, physiological responses, and annoyance. Each of these potential noise impacts on people are briefly discussed in the following narrative: Hearing Loss is generally not a concern in community noise problems, even very near a major airport or a major freeway. The potential for noise induced hearing loss is more commonly associated with occupational noise exposures in heavy industry, very noisy work environments with long term exposure, or certain very loud recreational activities such as target shooting, motorcycle or car racing, etc. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) identifies a noise exposure limit of 90 dBA for 8 hours per day to protect from hearing loss (higher limits are allowed for shorter duration exposures). Noise levels in neighborhoods, even in very noisy neighborhoods, are not sufficiently loud to cause hearing loss. Communication Interference is one of the primary concerns in environmental noise problems. Communication interference includes speech interference and interference with activities such as watching television. Normal conversational speech is in the range of 60 to 65 dBA and any noise in this range or louder may interfere with speech. There are specific methods of describing speech interference as a function of distance between speaker and listener and voice level. Exhibit 5 shows the relation of quality of speech communication with respect to various noise levels. Sleep Interference is a major noise concern in noise assessment and, of course, is most critical during nighttime hours. Sleep disturbance is one of the major causes of annoyance due to community noise. Noise can make it difficult to fall asleep, create momentary disturbances Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 11 9ka 2 1 Area Where Unaided Communications Are Inadequate Co Difficult Area Where °'�r�+ �A-9, ry�C�rip Communication5�� eq LO force In Normal Voice `te Is Adequate. 0.5 025 dB A 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 P SIL 23 33 43 63 93 73 93 93 1Q3 SIL 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 Ambient Noise Level Permissible Distance Between a Speaker and Listeners for Specified Voice Levels and Ambient Noise levels {The Levels in Parantheses Refer to Voice Levels Measured One Meter From the Mouth.} Exhibit 5 Speech Interference and. Noise ,Levels of natural sleep patterns by causing shifts from deep to lighter stages and cause awakening. Noise may even cause awakening that a person may or may not be able to recall. Extensive research has been conducted on the effect of noise on sleep disturbance with varying results. Recommended values for desired sound levels in residential bedroom space range from 25 to 45 dBA with 35 to 40 dBA being the norm. In 1981, the National Association of Noise Control Officials published data on the probability of sleep disturbance with various single event noise levels. Based on laboratory experiments conducted in the 1970's, this data indicated noise exposure, at 75 dBA interior noise level event will cause noise induced awakening in 30 percent of the cases. Recent research from England, however showed that the probability for sleep disturbance is less than what had been earlier reported. Field studies conducted during the 1990's, using new sophisticated techniques, indicated that awakenings can be expected at a much lower rate than had been expected based on earlier laboratory studies. This research showed that once a person was asleep, it is much more unlikely that they will be awakened by a noise. The significant difference in the recent English study is the use of actual in -home sleep disturbance patterns as opposed to laboratory data that had been the historic basis for predicting sleep disturbance. Some of this research has been criticized because it was conducted in areas where subjects had become habituated to aircraft noise. On the other hand, some of the earlier laboratory sleep studies had been criticized because of the extremely small sample sizes of most laboratory studies, and because the laboratory was not necessarily a representative sleep environment. The 1994 British sleep study compared the various causes of sleep disturbance using in home sleep studies. This field study assessed the effects of nighttime aircraft noise on sleep in 400 people (211 women and 189 men; 20-70 years of age; one per household) habitually living at eight sites adjacent to four U.K. airports, with different levels of night flying. The main finding was that only a minority of aircraft noise events affected sleep, and, for most subjects, that domestic and other non -aircraft factors had much greater effects. As shown in the Exhibit 6, aircraft noise was a minor contributor among a host of other factors that lead to awakening response. The Federal Interagency Committee on Noise (FICON) in 1992 in a document entitled Federal Interagency Review of Selected Airport Noise Analysis Issues recommended an interim dose - Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 12 Cause of Reported Awakening Worry 1 Rec Equipt. Thirst Dream Temp Illness Other Aircraft Inside Partner Outside Children Toilet Don't Know [.} 5 10 1 5 20 30 Percentage Exhibit 6 Causes and Prevalence of All Awakenings response curve for sleep disturbance based on laboratory studies of sleep disturbance. In June of 1997, the Federal Interagency Committee on Aviation Noise (FICAN) updated the FICON recommendation with an updated curve based on the more recent in -home sleep disturbance studies which show lower rates of awakening compared to the laboratory studies. FICAN recommended a curve based on the upper limit of the data presented and therefore considers the curve to represent the "maximum percent of the exposed population expected to be behaviorally awakened," or the "maximum awakened." The FICAN recommendation is shown on Exhibit 7. This is a very conservative approach. A more common statistical curve for the data points reflected in Exhibit 7, for example, would indicate a 10% awakening rate at a level of approximately 100 dB SENEL, while the "maximum awakened" curve reflected in Exhibit 7 shows the 10% awakening rate being reached at 80 dB SENEL. (The full FICAN report can be found on the internet at www.fican.org.) Physiological Responses are those measurable effects of noise on people that are realized as changes in pulse rate, blood pressure, etc. While such effects can be induced and observed, the extent is not known to which these physiological responses cause harm or are a sign of harm. Generally, physiological responses are a reaction to a loud short term noise such as a rifle shot or a very loud jet over flight. Health effects from noise have been studied around the world for nearly thirty years. Scientists have attempted to determine whether high noise levels can adversely affect human health -apart from auditory damage -which is amply understood. These research efforts have covered a broad range of potential impacts from cardiovascular response to fetal weight and mortality. While a relationship between noise and health effects seems plausible, it has yet to be convincingly demonstrated --that is, shown in a manner that can be repeated by other researchers while yielding similar results. While annoyance and sleep/speech interference have been acknowledged, health effects, if they exist, are associated with a wide variety of other environmental stressors. Isolating the effects of aircraft noise alone as a source of long term physiological change has proved to be almost impossible. In a review of 30 studies conducted worldwide between 1993 and 1998, a team of Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 13 ZMA Field Stud les 40 FICON 1992 -4 ---------- I --- --------- FICAN 1997 Q 30 I I- - - - - - -- - - - - - 4? C 20 0 10 ---------- 0 0 0 0 0 (Icb PPP 0 0 20 40 60 80 100 Indoor sound exposure level (SEL). dB Indoor Single Event Noise Exposure Level (SENEL) 120 Exhibit 7 Steep Interference and Noise Level international researchers concluded that, while some findings suggest that noise can affect health, improved research concepts and methods are needed to verify or discredit such a relationship. They called for more study of the numerous environmental and behavioral factors than can confound, mediate or moderate survey findings. Until science refines the research process, a direct link between aircraft noise exposure and non -auditory health effects remains to be demonstrated. Annoyance is the most difficult of all noise responses to describe. Annoyance is a very individual characteristic and can vary widely from person to person. What one person considers tolerable can be quite unbearable to another of equal hearing capability. The level of annoyance, of course, depends on the characteristics of the noise (i.e.; loudness, frequency, time, and duration), and how much activity interference (e.g. speech interference and sleep interference) results from the noise. However, the level of annoyance is also a function of the attitude of the receiver. Personal sensitivity to noise varies widely. It has been estimated that 2 to 10 percent of the population is highly susceptible to annoyance from any noise not of their own making, while approximately 20 percent are unaffected by noise. Attitudes are affected by the relationship between the person and the noise source (Is it our dog barking or the neighbor's dog?). Whether we believe that someone is trying to abate the noise will also affect our level of annoyance. Annoyance levels have been correlated to CNEL levels. Exhibit 8 relates DNL noise levels to community response from two of these surveys. One of the survey curves presented in Exhibit 8 is the well-known Schultz curve, developed by Theodore Schultz. It displays the percent of a populace that can be expected to be annoyed by various DNL (CNEL in California) values for residential land use with outdoor activity areas. At 65 dB DNL the Schultz curve predicts approximately 14% of the exposed population reporting themselves to be "highly annoyed." At 60 dB DNL this decreases to approximately 8% of the population. However, the Schultz curve and recent updates include data having a very wide range of scatter with communities reporting much higher percentages of population highly annoyed at these noise exposure levels. For example, under contract to the FAA, Bolt Beranek & Newman Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 14 100 1 80 G L 60 Y N 40 N O Y 20 E D 0 Day Night Average Sound Level in dB Calculated % HA Points USAF (Finegold et al 1992) DATA 400 POINTS % HA = 100/(1 + EXP (11.13 - .141 LDN)) (Solid Line) SCHULTZ DATA 161 POINTS % HA = I001(1 + EXP (10.43 - .132 LDN)) (DASHED Line) �rr rr /rr 40 145 I 50 I 55 160 I 65 I 70 � 75 I 80 185 190 USAF 0.41 0.831 1.66 3.31 6.48 12.29 22.1 36.47 53.74 70.16 82.64 SCHLILTZ 0.576 1.11 2.12 4.03 7.52 13.59 23.32 37.05 53.25 68.78 81.0 Exhibit 8 Comparison of logistic fits to original 161 data points of Schultz (1978) and USAF analysis with 400 points (data provided by USAF Armstrong Laboratory). Source: Ficon 1992 conducted community attitude surveys in the residential areas south of John Wayne Airport in Orange County in 1981 as part of a study of possible "power cutback" departure procedures. That study concluded that the surveyed population (principally in Santa Ana Heights and various Newport Beach neighborhoods) had more highly annoyed individuals at various CNEL levels than would be predicted by the Schultz curve. When plotted similar to the Schultz curve, this survey indicated the populations in Santa Ana Heights and Newport Beach were approximately 5 dB CNEL more sensitive to noise than the average population predicted by the Schultz curve. While the precise reasons for this increased noise sensitivity were not identified, it is possible that non -acoustic factors, including political or the socio-economic status of the surveyed population may have played an important role in increasing the sensitivity of this community during the period of the survey. Annoyance levels have never been correlated statistically to single event noise exposure levels in airport related studies. School Room Effects. Interference with classroom activities and learning from aircraft noise is an important consideration and the subject of much recent research. Studies from around the world indicate that vehicle traffic, railroad and aircraft noise can have adverse effects on reading ability, concentration, motivation, and long term learning retention. A complicating factor in this research is the extent of background noise from within the classroom itself. The studies indicating the most adverse effects examine cumulative noise levels equivalent to 65 CNEL or higher and single event maximum noise levels ranging from 85 to 95 dBA. In other studies the level of noise is unstated or ambiguous. According to these studies, a variety of adverse school room effects can be expected from interior noise levels equal to or exceeding 65 CNEL and or 85 dBA SEL. Some interference with classroom activities can be expected with noise events that interfere with speech. As discussed in other sections of this report, speech interference begins at 65 dBA that is the level of normal conversation. Typical construction attenuates outdoor noise by 20 dBA with windows closed and 12 dBA with windows open. Thus some interference of classroom activities can be expected at outdoor levels of 77 to 85 dBA. Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 15 4.0 Noise Measurements 4.1 Methodology Twenty (20) sites were selected for measurement of the noise environment in the OVOV planning area. A review of noise complaints, discussions with City staff and identification of major noise sources in the community provided the initial base for development of the community noise survey. The measurement locations were selected on the basis of proximity to major noise sources and noise sensitivity of the land use. The measurement locations are depicted in Exhibit 9. Noise measurements were made of the short term Leq values. These measurements provide a short `snapshot' view of the noise environment. The noise measurements were made at a normal receptor height of about 5 feet above the ground. Measurements were made on August 7 and 8, 2007. The measurements were made with a Bruel & Kjaer Type 2236 Sound Level Meter, and calibrated every few hours. These noise measurement systems meet the American National Standards Institute "Type 1" specifications, which is the most accurate for community noise measurements. The meter and calibrator have current certification traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NISI). 4.2 Results The results of the noise measurements are shown in Exhibit 10. These figures also depict the date and time of the measurement. The cause of the loudest event is identified and the most predominant noise source(s) are identified. The quantities measured were the Equivalent Noise Level (Leq), the maximum noise level (Lmax) and the minimum noise levels (Lmin). When examining the noise data shown in Exhibit 10 it is important to note that these data are intended to identify noise levels over a broad range of the study area and are not an assessment of impacts at these sites. In almost all cases the major sources of noise are motor vehicles. The noise levels measured cover a wide range of noise exposure throughout the OVOV area. The quietest environment was in a residential area in the back hills, where noise levels were often below 50 dBA. The loudest events were buses and trucks and these events would push the noise levels into the mid 80 dBA range. In general, aircraft noise, industrial noise, and commercial noise sources did not appear to contribute significantly to the noise levels measured. A discussion of the noise measurements is presented below on a site by site basis. 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Each site is discussed below. Exhibit 10, previously presented, includes the time of day, exact location, general land use around the site, and more detail on the measurement results, It may be useful for the reader to refer back to this exhibit during the following discussions. Site I- This site was at the edge of an old residential area, at the end of a cul-de-sac. The nearby houses were small and distanced from each other. The next neighborhood south is new, with many homes placed into a small space. The houses receive traffic noise from the 5 freeway and the frontage road. The frontage road, called the Old Road, receives truck traffic as well as normal passenger traffic. According to a neighbor the noise from the freeway is the worst at six o'clock AM, when the road receives the most noise from passenger traffic, no doubt workers entering the city. The traffic is also bad at 4:00 PM, when dozens of trucks pass by. In the middle of the night the neighbors also receive noise from the trucks, which use their brakes on the steep hill. The measurements were taken at 10:00 in the morning, which is a time of minimum traffic. The other noise the sound meter may have received includes the sound of a passing mail truck, as well as the neighbors entering and exiting their homes. The average sound level (Leq) was 65.5 dBA. The levels fluctuated between 55.0 dBA, which was the minimum, and 72.6 dBA, which was the maximum. The maximum was caused by passing trucks. While the average sound level is acceptable, the chain link fences between the neighbors and the traffic may not be enough blockage, especially during peak hours. Site 2- This site was in a residential district with a golf course that borders it. Past the golf course is the 5 freeway. There was a little noise coming from a light breeze in the trees, as well as some noise from neighbors entering and exiting their homes. There was also a little noise from a lawnmower in the distance, and the golfers on the golf course. However, the main source of noise was from large trucks on the freeway. The maximum, caused by one of these large trucks, registered 70.0 dBA. The average was 64.2, caused by the noise from the freeway. Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 17 Site 3- This site is on the corner of two streets which intersect right behind a sound wall, in a residential area. Across the street from the houses by which the sound meter was placed, there was a preschool. There were several exiting vehicles from the school's parking lot during the time of the measurement. There was also a car sitting with its engine on about a half a block away. There was also a significant amount of passenger vehicles that drove by, in the neighborhood itself. However, the main source of sound was from the 5 freeway. The average sound level was 66.4 dBA, which implies that the sound barrier is effective in shielding the noise of the freeway. The loudest sound reached 72.2 dBA, which was caused by a large truck passing by on the freeway. Site 4- This site was at the end of a cul-de-sac, within the bounds of a playground. The street ends, and then a small path winds around to a tiny playground about ten feet away. There is a metal fence which borders the playground from the road. The area receives noise from Sierra Highway, which borders it, as well as the 14 freeway, which is just slightly off in the distance. There was also a small amount of noise coming from the neighbors in the house next door, who were outside washing their car. The playground was not in use at the time of the measurements. The Leq was 61.0 dBA, while the maximum was 74.2 dBA. This maximum was caused by a pickup truck that drove by on Sierra Highway. Site 5- This site is located in Old Orchard Park, on a sidewalk next to a grassy area, between a baseball field and a playground. The park borders Lyons Avenue. At the time there was construction being done on an area right next to playground, within the realm of the park. However, during most of the measurements the noise effecting the meter coming from this source was barely audible. The park was active, with several families playing with their small children. The measurements were conducted in order see how loud the traffic from Lyons Ave was. The Average (Leq) noise level for the park was 63.4, while the noise levels ranged from 49.0 dBA to 75.1 dBA. The loudest measurements were taken from passing trucks. Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 18 Site 6- This site was at the end of a street which overlooked Freeway 14. The neighbors had a small wall (about three feet) surrounding the property, which may have helped to block sound. The freeway was quite a bit far below. Besides the sound of the freeway, the street also receives noise from Soledad Canyon Road, as well as Sequoia Rd, which is at the end of the street, in the opposite direction. In addition, there is a large construction area across the 14, and the neighbors on the left side of the meter were building on the outside, though they were on a break at the time of the measurements, and several planes flew overhead. The noise levels were fairly regular, with little variation. The average (Leq) level was 62.4 dBA, while the maximum and minimum were 69.5 dBA and 57.4 dBA, respectively. These levels are fairly low in comparison to the amount of traffic nearby, and thus this area is well shielded. Site 7- This location was near the end of Stator Road, back in the hills of the Los Angeles National Forest. It is in a very small residential district. Practically the only sounds reaching to the microphone were those from the residents. There were a few cars passing on San Francisquito Canyon Road, about one every five or ten minutes. Even the noise emanating from these cars barely reached the microphone. The loudest noises were from two planes, a neighbor's air conditioning, someone moving boxes inside of their home. The maximum sound level was 50.8 dBA, and the average (Leq) was 38.5 dBA. This is very low for a residential area. Site 8 — This site was on the corner 41h and Pine Street. It was on the edge of a residential area, right next to Pine Street. Beyond Pine Street is the railroad tracks, which is separated by a chain link fence and a few feet of ground. About a half a block from the railroad is San Fernando Road. The neighborhood receives sound from all three of these sources, as well as the sound coming from the streets within the neighborhood itself, which are rather busy, and the traffic from a nearby school. Besides these sources, the measurements include a dog barking, neighbors getting in and out of their vehicles, and two planes. The loudest measurement was 76.6 dBA, which was caused by the sound of a truck passing by on San Fernando Road. The measurements did not include the sound of a train passing by, or else no doubt the noise levels would have been much higher. The average noise level (Leq) was 56.8, which is actually rather low considering how many sound sources there are in the area. Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 19 Site 9- Site 9 was on the edge of a residential district, next to Via Princessa. There was a considerable amount of traffic on both Via Princessa and within the neighborhood. There was a helicopter that flew overhead, as well as several planes. There were also carpenters working in the distance. The largest sound levels were caused by trucks turning the corner, which measured at 83.1 dBA, because they were right next to the meter. The average measurement was 62.7 dBA. Site 10- This site was on the corner of the entrance to a residential area, adjacent to Magic Mountain Parkway. Across the street from the area is a car dealership, which has cars constantly entering and leaving. There is also a considerable amount of traffic entering and exiting the residential area, as well as the sound of golf carts driving around the community. The highest sound levels came from the motorcycles and large trucks that accelerate going up the road. These measured a maximum of 84.0 dBA. When there was a break between cars the sound levels were rather low, with a minimum of 48.8 dBA. However, these spaces were rare. The average sound level was 70.6 dBA, which is from the large amount of traffic on Magic Mountain Parkway. Site 11- This site was at the end of a cul-de-sac which ends right before Valencia Boulevard. There was noise from neighbors, cars on the local neighborhood streets, and a barking dog as well. The traffic was not exceedingly heavy on Valencia Boulevard, with mainly passenger vehicles. The average sound level (Leq) was 56.2 dBA. The maximum sound level was 67.1 dBA, which was caused by a large truck on Valencia. Site 12- This site was at the edge of residential district bordering McBean Parkway. It was at the end of cul-de-sac, with a small sound wall around the area. The main noise besides the traffic on McBean was the barking dog, and the wind in the trees, as well as neighbors entering and exiting their homes. The loudest noise was a truck on McBean, measuring 71.1 dBA. The average sound level was 61.7 dBA, which is relatively low for a residential area. Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 20 Site 13- This site was in a park, along Newhall Ranch Road. The park was adjacent to a residential area, with a iron fence separating the two. There is, however, a sound wall that separates the residential area from Newhall Ranch Road. The measurements were taken when the park was not active. There were several soccer players off in the distance, but other than that the field was not being used. The loudest noises were the cars passing by, with several small trucks and a motorcycle. The small trucks were the largest source of noise, causing the maximum to be 76.2 dBA. When there were few cars the sound levels were low, with at minimum at 45.5 dBA. The average sound level (Leq) was 66.2 dBA, which is not high for a park setting. Site 14- This site was off of Agua Dulce Road, right next to Sweetheart Ranch. This area is off of Sierra Highway, far back in the hills. There was very little noise in this area at all. The only few audible noises were due to wind chimes, the breeze in nearby bushes, and the occasional plane which passed by. The area received no traffic noise from Sierra Canyon Road. The average noise level (Leq) was 42.2. The maximum noise level was 5 L3, which was caused by a car passing by on Agua Dulce Road. Site 15- This site was at the end of a cul-de-sac, within a gated area with several apartment complexes. The main sources of noise were both from the 5 freeway and from Steinbeck Road. There was also a small amount of noise from planes, birds, and children playing nearby. The loudest event, measured at 72.4 dBA, was a pickup truck on Steinbeck Road. The average noise level (Leq) was 62.0, dBA, which is low for an area that includes both roads, most likely because few cars pass by on Steinbeck. Site 16- This site was on the corner of Shadow Valley Road and Bouquet Canyon Road. The measurements were taken in order to test the amount of traffic traveling on the main road. We found that there were few cars that passed by, though there were several large trucks and several very loud motorcycles. There were also several planes that passed overhead. The loudest noise, at 79.7 dBA, was a pickup truck that turned the corner onto Shadow Valley Road. The average noise level (Leq) was 66.4 dBA, which reaches the residential area directly behind the noise measuring site. Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 21 Site 17- This site was on the corner of Santa Catarina Road and Plum Canyon Road. The site was chosen in order to test the amount of sound the residential district adjacent to Plum Canyon road receives. The main noise was from the cars on the road. Although there were mainly passenger vehicles, because Plum Canyon is a very open road there is an excess of speeding. The acceleration often occurs right next to the neighborhood. Because site only received noise from passing vehicles, there was a large range of noise, from a maximum sound level of 85.8 dBA, to a minimum sound level of 43.3 dBA. The highest noise levels were caused by a school bus, a motorcycle, a garbage truck, and several cars accelerating up the hill. The average noise level was 72.1 dBA, which is too high for a residential area. However, there is a sound wall built around the residential area, but it does not reach around to the corner, where the measurements were taken. Site 18- This site was at the end of a cul-de-sac. Measurements were taken in order to test the sound levels caused by the nearby road, freeway 14. There were a few birds, as well as two planes, but besides these the only sound was that of the freeway. The average noise level was 51.0 dBA. The maximum was 61.9 dBA, which was caused by several passing trucks. Although the freeway is nearby, it is elevated from the neighborhood and distanced enough to have a fairly low sound impact. Site 19- These measurements were taken in a residential neighborhood, on the bend right before a cul-de-sac. The cul-de-sac ends next to the Old Road, which is a frontage road next to the 5 freeway. The meter received the most noise from the 5 freeway, though there is considerable traffic on the Old Road. The measurements were taken to consider both noise sources. Also effecting the noise levels was a siren that passed on the 5 freeway, as well as a dog barking in the neighborhood, and a moving van that stopped at the beginning of the street, and then made a U-turn. The loudest noise, at 75.9 dBA, was from a large truck passing by on the Old Road. The average noise level (Leq) was 60.1 dBA, which is moderate for a neighborhood next to a freeway. Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 22 Site 20- This site is in a residential area with a main road, McBean Parkway, running adjacent to it. There was a considerable amount of traffic along McBean, mainly passenger vehicles. In addition, the neighborhood was fairly active, with sprinklers going off in two different yards, as well as several neighbors entering and exiting their homes. There was also a plane that flew overhead. The loudest event was a large truck that drove by. The maximum sound level was 69.5 dBA, and the average was 55.0 dBA. This is quite low for a residential area, thanks to a sound was that borders it. 5.0 NOISE CONTOURS The noise environment in Santa Clarita is attributable primarily to roadways, which include both surface roadways and freeways. The Southern Pacific Railroad is also a significant noise source, which runs from the southern portion of the City to the center of the City and then directly to the east. Sporadic airplane or helicopter operations occur across the OVOV study area that are not loud enough and consistent enough to be significant. The Agua Dulce Airport is located in the study area. The noise contours for the City of Santa Clarita are presented in Exhibit 11 for existing conditions. Exhibits 12 and 13 are for buildout conditions for the Current General Plan and the OVOV Plan, respectively. The existing contours are based on the existing conditions of traffic volumes and other sources of noise in the community. The future contours represent a year 2030 scenario. (The traffic noise contours, including the average daily traffic, are also presented in a tabular form as an appendix to this report.) The noise contours were generated using a mathematical model developed by the Federal Highway Administration ("Traffic Noise Model," Version 2.5, April 14, 2004). The Traffic Noise Model (TNM) model uses traffic volume, vehicle mix, average vehicle speed, roadway geometry, and sound propagation path characteristics to predict hourly A -weighted Leq values adjacent to a road. Vehicle mix is reported in terms of the number of automobiles, medium trucks, and heavy trucks. The truck categories are defined in the TNM model by number of axles and weight. In order to compute a CNEL value for roadways the hourly data for a 24 Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 23 EXHIBIT 11 EXISTING NOISE CONTOURS (BEING PREPARED BY CITY) EXHIBIT 12 CURRENT GENERAL PLAN NOISE CONTOURS (BEING PREPARED BY CITY) EXHIBIT 13 OVOV NOISE CONTOURS (BEING PREPARED BY CITY) hour period are used according to the CNEL formula. Vehicle distribution over the 24 hour day must be known, i.e., the percent of vehicles in the daytime period (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.), evening period (7 p.m. to 10 p.m.) and night period (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.). The mix of automobiles, medium trucks and heavy trucks has an effect on noise levels. The assumption used to model noise is based on known traffic mix data. For arterial roadways the vehicle mix data are obtained from mix data collected by the County of Orange during extensive surveys of 53 intersections within the County. This survey is the most comprehensive conducted in Southern California and is considered representative for the vast majority of arterial highways throughout Southern California. Caltrans conducts periodic traffic counts on freeways and publishes them on the internet (www.dot.ca. og v/hd/traffops/saferesr/trafdata/). The various truck percentages reported by Caltrans were used for the projections. The arterial roadway mix data are provided in Table 2. Freeway mix data are provided in Tables 3 and 4. Table 2 Arterial Roadway Vehicle Mix Data (Traffic distribution per time of day in percent of Average Daily Traffic — ADT) VEHICLE DAY EVENING NIGHT TYPE (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.) (7 p.m. to 10 p.m.) (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) TOTAL Automobile 75.51 12.57 9.34 97.42 Medium Truck 1.56 0.09 0.19 1.84 Heavy Truck 0.64 0.02 0.08 0.74 Table 3 Interstate 5 Vehicle Mix Data (Traffic distribution per time of day in percent of Average Daily Traffic — ADT) VEHICLE DAY EVENING NIGHT TYPE (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.) (7 p.m. to 10 p.m.) (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) TOTAL Automobile 57.72 9.48 18.95 86.15 Medium Truck 1.96 0.32 0.64 2.92 Heavy Truck 7.32 1.20 2.40 10.93 Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 24 Table 4 State Route 14 Vehicle Mix Data (Traffic distribution per time of day in percent of Average Daily Traffic — ADT) VEHICLE TYPE DAY (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.) EVENING (7 p.m. to 10 p.m.) NIGHT (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) TOTAL Automobile 63.05 10.51 21.97 95.53 Medium Truck 1.04 0.17 0.36 1.57 Heavy Truck 1.91 0.32 0.67 2.90 The Southern Pacific Railroad line handles two types of train in the Santa Clarita area; Metrolink, and freight. In terms of noise freight is the dominant noise source. Published train schedules were consulted and it was determined that 24 Metrolink trains run through Santa Clarita each day. No precise numbers of daily freight train operations could be provided, however, we estimated that 12 freight trains pass through each day. The number of freight trains is not expected to increase dramatically. By the year 2030 Metrolink trains are anticipated to double each day. Freight train usage was increased to 15 trains per day. These data were used to generate the train noise contours included in Exhibits 11 through 13. Noise contours represent lines of equal noise exposure, just as the contour lines on a topographic map are lines of equal elevation. The contours shown on the map are the 60, 65 and 70 dB CNEL noise level. The noise contours presented can be used as a guide for land use planning. The 60 CNEL contour defines the Noise Referral Zone. This is the noise level for which noise considerations should be included when making land use policy decisions. The contours presented in this report are a graphic representation of the noise environment. These distances to contour values are also shown in tabulated format in the appendix. Topography and intervening buildings or barriers have a very complex effect on the propagation of noise. To present a worst case estimate, the topographic affect is not included in these contours to present a worst case projection. 5.1 Projected Noise Impacts The traffic levels will change throughout the study area in future years, and the noise levels will also undergo a corresponding change. Many comparisons can be made, but the Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 25 comparisons of most interest are between the existing noise levels and future noise levels with the OVOV plan (i.e., cumulative noise increase), and the comparison of noise levels between what would occur with the current General Plan and the proposed OVOV plan (i.e., increase due to project). The traffic study divided up the roadway network into 318 roadway links. Table 5 shows the expected incremental traffic noise level increases on the most important roadways. A significance threshold of 5 dB is often used for a change in environmental noise that occurs slowly over a long period of time. Therefore, all roadway links that show a change in noise level between the existing and future buildout of the OVOV of 5 dB or more are shown in Table 5. Additionally, any roadway links that will experience an increase of 1 dB with the OVOV compared to the Current General Plan is also included in the table. The roadway segment number corresponds to the segment number identified by the traffic engineer. Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 26 Table 5 CNEL Noise Increases (dB) Segment Cumulative Increase Due to No. Roadwav Link Increase Proiect Land Use 2 Agua Dulce n/o Davenport 6.4 0.0 Sparse Residential 3 Agua Dulce n/o SR-14 6.7 0.0 Open Space 4 Agua Dulce s/o SR-14 4.8 1.8 Open Space 8 Ave Stanford s/o Vanderbilt 5.3 0.8 Commercial 29 Chiquito Cyn (Long Cyn) n/o SR-126 11.0 -0.3 Open Space 41 Copper Hill e/o Haskell 5.3 -0.2 Residential 43 Davenport e/o Sierra Hwy 4.8 1.8 Commercial 53 Dockweiler w/o Sierra Hwy 6.8 -0.2 Sparse Residential 55 Franklin e/o Wolcott Way 9.0 0.0 Open Space 57 Golden Valley s/o Plum Cyn 7.8 0.0 Residential 59 Golden Valley n/o Soledad 5.0 0.0 Comercial/Indust. 68 Hasley Cyn w/o Del Valle 6.4 0.7 Open Space 77 Lake Hughes e/o Castaic 6.1 -0.7 Mixed 78 Lake Hughes e/o Ridge Route 5.4 -2.3 Commercial 87 Lost Cyn s/o Via Princessa 7.4 -0.4 Residential 98 Magic Mtn w/o The Old Road 7.3 0.1 Open Space 99 Magic Mtn e/o The Old Road 5.0 0.2 Office 105 Magic Mtn e/o Valencia 5.3 0.2 Mixed 128 Newhall Ranch e/o Bouquet Cyn 8.2 0.2 Mixed 143 Pico Cyn w/o Stevenson Ranch 9.9 0.0 Residential 161 Ridge Route n/o Lake Hughes 8.5 -0.1 Mixed 162 Ridge Route n/o Castaic 2.0 3.0 Commercial 172 San Martinez Grande Cyn n/o SR-126 7.0 -1.5 Open Space 233 Stevenson Ranch n/o Poe -0.7 1.4 Open Space 238 The Old Road n/o Hillcrest 6.4 -0.3 Mixed 254 Tibbitts s/o Newhall Ranch 5.8 0.0 Commercial 262 Valencia w/o The Old Road 5.8 0.1 Residential 276 Via Princessa e/o Oak Ridge 5.7 0.0 Residential 279 Via Princessa w/o Rainbow Glen 11.3 0.7 Residential 280 Via Princessa e/o Rainbow Glen 7.6 0.5 Residential 283 Via Princessa n/o Lost Cyn 6.8 0.2 Residential 290 Wiley Cyn e/o Orchard Village 5.8 0.4 Residential 295 Wolcott n/o SR-126 7.8 0.0 Open Space n/a - existing traffic volumes were not available. Table 5 shows that 29 roadway segments will experience a cumulative noise increase of 5 dB or greater. The land uses as observed from aerials and on -site visits are shown in the table. (Land use listed may not be the same as the zoning designation.) The OVOV will experience substantial population growth in upcoming years and as a result noise levels will increase significantly along many roadways. Some of the roadway links that will experience much of the noise increase and are bordered by residential uses include portions of Wiley Canyon, Via Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 27 Princessa, and Lost Canyon Road. There will be a significant cumulative noise impact along many roads in the OVOV. With the proposed OVOV plan the noise levels will go down on more roadways than will go up in comparison to the current General Plan. There are only 7 roadway links out of the 318 links that make up the entire roadway network where the noise levels with the OVOV plan increase by 1 dB or more in comparison to the current General Plan. For environmental noise, a difference of 3 dB is barely discernable. Only one roadway link, specifically Ridge Route north of Castaic, will experience a noise increase of 3 dB in comparison to the current General Plan. This area is primarily commercial uses which are very insensitive to noise and therefore, no project specific impacts are projected for the OVOV plan. Even for the residential areas where the noise levels are projected to increase by more than 1 dB, our review of the sites indicate that the residences are currently protected by an existing soundwall or are setback far enough from the roadway so that future noise levels with the OVOV plan will be acceptable. Therefore, although the OVOV will experience substantial increases in traffic over existing levels and corresponding increases in traffic noise, the proposed OVOV plan will result in slightly lower noise levels for more streets than with the current General Plan and will not result in any significant noise increases in comparison to the current General Plan. Noise levels were projected for the railroad line that pass through the OVOV study area. Both Metrolink and freight trains utilize the railroad line. In future years both the operations of freight and Metrolink are expected to increase. A moderate increase in the CNEL noise level of 2.4 dB is projected to occur between existing levels and buildout. This level of noise increase is expected to occur with both the current General Plan and the proposed OVOV plan. The 2.4 dB increase is not considered to be a significant noise increase. Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 28 6.0 Noise Issues A number of noise issues have arisen during the development of the OVOV plan. Some of the issues have a direct effect on the planning for the OVOV, while other issues are more for informational purposes only. 6.1 High -Speed Rail Line A high speed rail line is being planned by the California High -Speed Rail Authority. The first route would likely be from Sacramento to Los Angeles, and would likely run through the OVOV area. A separate environmental study will be done as the plans for the high-speed rail are developed. At this time the potential route or routes through the OVOV area are not know, and the type of train and corresponding noise levels are not known. Therefore, no substantive planning in regards to noise can be done at this time. 6.2 High Density Development Along Railroad High density residential development and mixed -use commercial district, which may contain residential uses, is being planned along portions of the railroad. Most notably this will occur in the areas where the railroad parallels San Fernando Road, and to a lesser extent where the railroad is adjacent to Soledad Canyon Road. Developing residential along railroads presents special challenges. First, constructing soundwalls along railroads is often not feasible. Soundwalls that are constructed may provide some protection for lower residential floors, but provide little or no protection for the upper floors. Secondly, although the CNEL noise scale is the best scale for use for environmental noise it does have a weakness when dealing with train events (and to a similar extent aircraft noise). Specifically, train noise is what is referred to single event noise. A train event will occur and generate loud levels of noise and then there will be no railroad noise for an extended period of time. The CNEL scale accounts for the number of trains, the time of day that they occur, and how loud the trains are; but some argue that the annoyance and activity disruption that is generated by the single event of a train is not fully accounted for. For example, if a train passes by and awakens you, your main focus is on that one train and not on the other factors that go into the CNEL scale calculation. The use of CNEL (or the similar Ldn scale) for noise/land use planning is required by State code. And in Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 29 fact the use of the CNEL scale provides the best correlation with how people view the noise environment. However, some people express annoyance due to the loudness of the single events, and an extra margin of satisfaction with the noise environment can be achieved through the use of a buyer/renter notification program. Basically the notification provides information on the location and type of noise source in the area and the fact that there may loud events generated by these sources. For high density residential uses (and mixed -use) there are no outside private areas where quiet is anticipated. Generally, these uses might have a small balcony but there is little expectation that the noise levels for these balcony areas will be low. This is especially true when one considers that a balcony noise barrier, often made of glass, is about the only way to provide noise protection for a small balcony area. Balcony barriers are often disliked by the residents because they close -in the balcony too much. For a high density residential use the expectation is that there will be a place in the complex where peace and quiet can be found. It may be communal courtyards or a pool area to lay around and relax. It is important to provide noise protection for these areas. These areas can often be protected through site design, such as locating buildings or parking structures between the noise source and the area to be protected. Recommendations for noise standards and buyer notification are provided in Section 7.0 — Policy Recommendations. 6.3 Mixed -Use Developments As part of the development of the downtown area mixed -use projects may be constructed. The commercial/residential interface presents special problems. The primary concern is that the commercial uses may operate through the evening hours and into the nighttime hours. Clubs, late -night restaurants, and banquet facilities are some examples of commercial uses that could locate in the mixed -use area and generate noise into nighttime hours. Another characteristic of the commercial areas is that the tenants in a building may change over time. For example, a bookstore that did not operate at night could be replaced by a popular restaurant where operations could extend through the evening and into nighttime hours. Simply stated, the noise levels that are present today will change and noise environment will change accordingly. For Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 30 these reasons it is very difficult to properly soundproof residences that are constructed in a mixed -use development. It would be desirable to take some additional action in mixed -use developments so that residents would view the noise environment as favorable. Putting time limits on the commercial uses might be viable in some cases, but it may also deter some of the specific commercial uses that the City is trying to attract from locating in or near a mixed -use development. The State requires that buildings be designed to meet a 45 CNEL indoor noise standard for multi -family residences. Therefore, it would not be possible to set an indoor noise standard more restrictive than the State standard because the State law has precedence. Buyer and renter notification is often the only recourse in trying to improve the noise acceptability for residents in mixed -use projects. The notification should inform the potential residents that commercial uses are located nearby, the their hours of operation may change from time to time, and that the use within the commercial area along with the noise generation potential may also change over time. Specific recommendations are made in Section 7.0 — Policy Recommendations. 6.4 Agua Duke Airport The Agua Dulce Airport is located in the northeast quadrant of the OVOV study area. The airport is located in a sparsely populated area of the County. The airport is privately owned but open to the public. The airport has a single 4,600 foot long runway and serves general aviation aircraft only. There are many noise restrictions in place for flight operations. No night operations are allowed at the airport. Aircraft are not allowed to fly within 1,000 feet of the school which is located 1 mile southwest of the airport. If aircraft depart to the north on Runway 4, they are to avoid flying over the home 2,000 feet northeast of the end of the runway. Finally, touch and go practices are not allowed at the airport. A 65 CNEL noise contour has been generated for the airport and was provided by the County of Los Angeles. The noise contour barely extends past the ends of the runway and does not impact any residences (Exhibit 14). Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 31 JJU w k LOWL— 'It I �� rf IJ or t 11.0 -1-11 Ao 6.5 Magic Mountain Six Flags Magic Mountain is an amusement park located in the southwest quadrant of the study area. The park has a large number of thrill rides including 17 roller coasters, has live entertainment, and periodically has firework displays. The noise levels and hours of operation around the park vary considerably depending on the time of day, the day of the week, the presence of holidays, and the season of the year. The noise levels generated by park activities can be heard for a considerable distance around the park at certain times. People buying or renting in the area may be surprised later when they can hear park activities. A buyer/renter notification program may be appropriate for new developments that locate in the area. See Section 7.0 — Policy Recommendations. 6.6 Special Events Special events, such as outdoor concerts, may be held in the study area on an irregular or regular basis. The noise levels as they impact surrounding parcels would be limited per the Los Angeles County Noise Ordinance and the Santa Clarita Noise Ordinance. The noise ordinances apply to any events that are held on private property. The Santa Clarita Noise Ordinance consists of Chapter 11.44 of municipal code. The limits contained in the ordinance would apply to any special event with only "lawfully conducted parades" and "emergency work" exempted from the ordinance. The Los Angeles County noise ordinance is contained in Chapter 12.08 of the county code. Similar to the Santa Clarita ordinance, the Los Angeles County ordinance contains specific noise limits that can not be exceeded at the property boundary. The limits vary depending on the time of day and land uses involved. Finally, it should be noted that the noise ordinances are contained in the city or county code, and are not part of the Noise Element of the General Plan. Control of noise sources on private property is usually regulated through the imposition of a city or county regulation and is not usually part of the General Plan. 6.7 Emergency Vehicles Noise generated by emergency vehicles is not under the control of the City or County. Both the City and County noise ordinances exempt emergency operations from regulation. The State has preempted local jurisdictions from controlling noise generated by emergency equipment. The use of sirens on police vehicles, ambulances, and fire trucks can not be Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 32 controlled by the City or County. Similarly, emergency flights of helicopters and airplanes can not be controlled by the City or County. 7.0 Policy Recommendations The Santa Clarita Noise Element of the General Plan was updated in May 2000. The Goals and Policies section of the document is excellent. Suggested modifications to the Goals and Policies are made below. In some cases, the change suggested simply provides a clarification to existing policies. Other suggested changes reflect the need to address noise issues that concern higher density developments that will occur as the area develops further. 7.1 Expand Use of Santa Clarita Noise Element to Entire OVOV The use of the Santa Clarita Noise Element should be expanded to cover the entire OVOV area. Specifically, the Noise and Land Use Compatibility Guidelines (contained in the Element as Exhibit N-2) with the recommended changes suggested below and the Goals and Policies contained in the Noise Element should be applicable to all of OVOV. The Goals and Policies contained in the Noise Element are very appropriate for a developing area and are needed for the OVOV. 7.2 Modifications to Compatibility Matrix A land use compatibility matrix is presented in the Noise Element as Exhibit N-2. The exhibit identifies the level of acceptability for land use and noise exposure combinations. For example, a land planner may consult the matrix for a residential project that is being considered where the noise exposure is 72 CNEL. The matrix would inform the planner that the compatibility is "normally unacceptable," but if the project does proceed a detail acoustical analysis will be needed as well as noise insulation features in the design. One concern with the matrix is that many categories overlap. For example, if the planner consulted the chart for a residential project in a 57 CNEL noise zone, it would be discovered that the project would fall into two categories; "normally acceptable" and "conditionally acceptable." This ambiguity is makes the matrix less useful. Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 33 A revised matrix is shown in Exhibit 15. The overlapping categories have been removed. Additionally, clarifying language has been added to language below the matrix and to the description of the normally unacceptable category. 7.3 Indoor Noise Criteria Policy 3.1 of the Noise Element identifies the need to protect indoor noise levels. However, it provides a threshold level based on daytime and nighttime noise levels. Normally these levels are not readily available, however, the CNEL noise levels as presented in the noise contour exhibits for the area are easily accessed. Therefore, we are recommending that the threshold level cited should be changed to an equivalent CNEL level. Additionally, a specific indoor criterion should be cited rather than a vague phrase such as "provide mitigation measures." The recommended language for Policy 3.1 is as follows: Require that developers of new single-family and multi family residential neighborhoods in areas where the projected noise levels exceeds 60 CNEL to provide mitigation measures for new residences to reduce indoor noise levels to 45 CNEL based on future traffic and railroad noise levels. 7.4 Outdoor Noise Criteria The Noise Element does not contain any specific standards in regards to outdoor areas for new residential developments. It is important to protect certain outdoor areas for the benefit of the residents. In fact, the City generally imposes an outdoor noise standard as a condition of approval on new residential developments. However, this standard should be included in the Noise Element so that the planning for new developments will clearly addresses the need to protect certain outdoor areas. A new Policy 3.5 is recommend and would read as follows: Require that developers of new single-family and multi family residential neighborhoods in areas where the projected noise levels exceeds 65 CNEL to provide mitigation measures (e.g., noise barriers, setbacks, site design) for new residences to reduce outdoor noise levels to 65 CNEL based on future traffic conditions. This criteria would apply to rear yard areas for single family Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 34 developments and private patio areas and community recreation facilities (e.g., parks and swimming pools) for multi family developments. 7.5 Development of Sensitive Land Uses Along Interstate 5 The noise levels along Interstate 5 are projected to increase with either the Current General Plan or the proposed OVOV Plan. Traffic levels are projected to increase and the percent of nighttime traffic will also continue to increase. Residential development very close to the freeway results in very high soundwalls, or in some cases, wall height requirements that are infeasible. (Generally soundwall heights greater than 16 feet are considered infeasible.) Very high soundwalls are also not consistent with the area's character that is suburban or even rural in some locations. Additionally, the California Air Resources Board has recommended that residences be located 500 feet from the edge of the freeway due to potential air toxic impacts unless detailed air studies are done. Therefore, a new Policy 3.6 is recommended below which prohibits residential buildings within 150 feet of the Interstate 5 centerline. The purpose of the policy is to avoid placing residential uses in an area that can not adequately be noise mitigated, and to reduce the use of high soundwalls along the 1-5. It should be noted that the centerline was utilized as a reference instead of the right of way, because the right of way width varies greatly as the freeway passes through the study area. The proposed Policy 3.6 reads as follows: New residential buildings shall not be located within 150 feet of the Interstate 5 centerline. 7.6 Disclosure Statements for Special Areas Three land use situations were identified above where buyer/renter notification programs would be beneficial. A new Policy 3.7 is recommended and would read as follows: A buyer and renter notification program should be developed for new residential developments to educate and inform potential buyers and renters of the sources of noise in the area or new sources that may occur. Potential buyers and renters within 1 mile of Magic Mountain or within 1,000 feet of the railroad should receive notice that these sources occasionally generate high levels of noise and Technical Appendix OVOV Noise Element Page 35 that the frequency and loudness of these noise events may change over time. Potential buyers and renters in or within 200 feet of high -density mixed use developments should be noticed that the commercial uses within the mixed use developments may generate noise in excess of levels typically found in residential areas, and that the commercial uses may change over time and the associated noise levels and frequency of noise events may also change along with the use. 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N N N LO LO LO d N O O O M 00 � CO N 4 6i N N 4 O LO N M N N (D LO (D (D (D (D (D Qc) Qc) LO N CO CO N CO CO CO CO CO LO LO LO CO N N N N N Lo O O O Lo Lo O O O O LO O LO Lo O Lo Lo O O O O O O O Lo LO O LO LO 000000 O O O O 000 000000 O 00000 O 000 000000 O O O O OO O 000000 O 00000 O 000 O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O M CO 00 N N N 6� 6� M N CO CO M CO 6� M N N 6� OM M CO � O L O O O O 0 > a) Q) = = L O O m U O Q o u� Q C m L U >,0 O O O O U U O LO ca t CZ O O O ca }' O cz L m L ca Q O — cz 4-M p U c6 W � •czL U w 4- 0 4 0 ca m 0 4-1 UQi + L U d d 4- OO d U t C t O t O t O O +' t E _O O O -c- pcz O + 4-1 O m O L L > L L U m O p 0 + N Z N S U Z Z= Z U Z MM U Cn � W U m Cn O + Q Z= U = P > > p Q N p 0 2 w O O O m ca ca O) _0 0) _0 _0 _0 U m U O U O m d ca d O Ca _0 c O O O O LO m O O M CZ CZ LO O 4— O 4— O p m vim) 5 D 5 c(n 4-j E E O �, _0_0 ca c m c (a N �, 0 O p 0 O CZ 0 0 0, cu O >� +• -0_0_0 CZ can m ca 4— ,j c U m Ca m U ca 0 -�-j 2 v) C U O O 0 0 U O O m O O O CO O O C p 0 C U L O � O L +, Q 4- O U U _0 U O Y 4• _0 i M i M i C O can M cn cn c6 E cn 0 cn L L m ca 0) m O O U -) S CY O Z Q O m Z= Q O Z (a O U Cn O (6 J> W (6 O W> m +•+ O Q (6 L w 0= (a Ca Ca d 0- d 0 � 0 Q 0 Q Q Q O O D O Z z= W conm 0 Q< Q co O Z O w Z 0 Z Z Z>0 0 0 0 Q Q W W W w Z w Z Z N OQQQ J 0 0 0 O O O Z> Q > >> = c� 0 0 0= � C7 _ C7 = C7 a a w� U U Z N U Q J=� N>= U a Q Z Z Z U m Q Q Q Q m Q m m O Q Q z _ >> > � Z_ Q W w Z �. 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L U cn O p ca O p Ca Lf ) O O CVY �7 �Om c PQQNNiv7C7d—' `7 0 J J o = jN Ca C6 U 0- 2 U)= 2 i 2 >, cz 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 J U W O O O O O O O O O C\n C\n C\n C\n C\n C\n C\n O O uo uo uo uo uo uo uo uo uo uo Lo :L4 Un i N N N N N N N N N Conservation and Open Space Element Appendix Significant Ecological Area Designations County of Los Angeles and City of Santa Clarita CONTENTS SIGNIFICANT ECOLOGICAL AREA CRUZAN MESA VERNAL POOLS SANTA CLARA RIVER SANTA FELICIA SANTA SUSANA MOUNTAINS/SIMI HILLS VALLEY OAKS SAVANNAH Significant Ecological Area Studies Los Angeles County began to indentify biological resources, such as the Santa Clara River, and valley oak savannahs, in the 1970s. In 1980, 61 of these biologically significant areas were adopted as part of the Conservation and Open Space Element of the Countywide General Plan, five of which were subsequently adopted in the Santa Clarita Valley Area Plan. A number of the SEAs were islands of significant habitats within larger undeveloped areas in 1980, which was thought would provide sensitive plants and animals ample open space and ensure their continued existence. Since 1980 however, many of these areas were impacted by rapid development activity within and around the SEAs, dramatically reducing the opportunity for species movement and genetic dissemination. In January 2001, the County released the Los Angeles County SEA Update Study 2000. Conservation planning was the fundamental goal of this update, which was designed to accomplish the following: evaluate existing SEAs for changes in biotic conditions and consider additional areas for SEA status; delineate SEA boundaries based upon biotic evaluation; and propose guidelines for managing and conserving biological resources within SEAs. The SEA Update Study 2000 was based on scientifically grounded concepts regarding the size and type of linkage systems necessary to sustain the biologically diverse plant and animal species that are found within the County. The methods used to identify and delineate SEAs was multi -faceted, including: a broad outreach program focusing on government resource agencies, academic institutions, conservation groups, and the general public; a comprehensive database and literature review; field study; and the interpretation of aerial photography. The SEA Map depicts each area that has been designated as ecologically significant because it meets one or more of the following criteria: SEA UPDATE STUDY CRITERIA Criterion Intent/Rationale A) The Habitat of Core These areas are important in maintaining viable Populations of Endangered plant and/or animal populations for those species or Threatened Plant or recognized by state and or federal resource Animal Species agencies as being extremely low in numbers or having a very limited amount of suitable habitat available. The terms "endangered" and "threatened" have precise meanings defined in both state and federal law (see below). The identification of "core population"' will be determined by the United States The term "core population" as used here is a general biological term referring to a known and/or a viable population. Other locations of endangered or threatened plant or animal species may also Criterion Intent/Rationale Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the California Department of Fish & Game (CDFG). This criterion is not meant to constitute a recovery program for listed species but rather one element of a more comprehensive conservation effort for the long term sustainment of listed species within the county. At the local level, recovery programs of both the CDFG and the USFWS have measures in place which can impose severe penalties for the "take " of listed species or their habitat. Federally Endangered: "any species which is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range ..." Federally Threatened: "any species which is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range." State Endangered: "...a native species or subspecies of a bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant which is in serious danger of becoming extinct throughout all, or a significant portion, of its range due to one or more causes, including loss of habitat, change in habitat, overexploitation, predation, competition, or disease." State Threatened: "... a native species or subspecies of a bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant that, although not presently threatened with extinction, is likely to become an endangered species in the foreseeable future in the absence of the special protection and management efforts required by this chapter [California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Sec 670.5]. Any animal determined by the commission as rare on or before January 1, 1985 is a threatened species." B) On a Regional Basis, Biotic The purpose of this criterion is to identify biotic occur in Los Angeles County which are not within a SEA. It should also be noted that the concept of core populations is consistent with current thinking of the USFWS and the CDFG. Criterion Intent/Rationale Communities, Vegetative resources that are uncommon on a regional basis. Associations, and Habitat of The geographical region considered could be as Plant and Animal Species small as the southern California coastal plains, the that are either unique, or are Transverse mountain ranges, the Mojave Desert, restricted in distribution the southern California coastline, etc.; or they could be as large as southern California, the Pacific coast, all of California, the western United States, or even larger. The point being that the community, association, or habitat is either unique or restricted in distribution in an area larger than the political boundaries of Los Angeles County (i.e., coastal sage scrub, native grasslands, or vernal pools). Resources that are limited in distribution in the region being considered, but common elsewhere, are also included under this category. C) Within Los Angeles County, The purpose of this criterion is to identify biotic Biotic Communities, resources that are uncommon within the political Vegetative Associations, boundaries of Los Angeles County, regardless of and Habitat of Plant and their availability elsewhere. The County has a high Animal Species that are diversity of biological components. It and San Diego either unique, or are County are the only counties in the United States restricted in distribution that possess coastal, montane, and desert subregions within their boundaries. It is a rich heritage that few local governments have an opportunity to preserve. Many biotic communities that were once common in Los Angeles County have been severely reduced due to urban and agricultural development. This is especially true south of the San Gabriel Mountains, and among the agricultural fields of the North County. Other biotic features have never been common. D) Habitat that at some point in Species or groups of species, at various points in the life cycle of a species or their life cycles, tend to congregate in certain areas. group of species, serves as These areas possess resources that are essential to Concentrated Breeding, the maintenance of specific wildlife species. This Feeding, Resting, or criterion is intended to identify those areas that are Migrating Grounds, and is limited in distribution either regionally or in Los limited in availability either Angeles County, and not the primary habitat of regionally or in Los Angeles common species or groups of species. County E) Biotic resources that are of Often times scientists learn the most about a scientific interest because biological phenomenon by studying it at an extreme Criterion Intent/Rationale they are either an extreme in in its distribution. This frequently reveals the physical/geographical biological and ecological parameters under which it limitations, or represent can survive. In addition, isolated populations and unusual variation in a communities often are relicts of what was present in population or community an area at some previous time, and may show genetic traits not found elsewhere in the species. These biological and ecological parameters may be useful in determining taxonomic relationships. F) Areas that would provide for The intent of this criterion was to identify examples the preservation of relatively of the primary biotic resources in Los Angeles undisturbed examples of the County. At least one example (e.g., native original natural biotic grassland, valley oak savannah) of each vegetation communities In Los Angeles type will be selected from the various geographical County regions in the County in order to preserve basic bio- geographic diversity. CRUZAN MESA VERNAL POOLS SEA General The Cruzan Mesa Vernal Pools Significant Ecological Area (SEA) lies in the southeastern portion of the Liebre Mountains, north of the Santa Clara River, and southeast of Bouquet Canyon. The SEA boundaries encompass the watershed and drainages of the Cruzan Mesa and Plum Canyon vernal pools, considered as a single ecosystem within the SEA. The SEA is located within in an unincorporated portion of Los Angeles County and lies entirely within the United States Geological Survey (USGS) California Mint Canyon Quadrangle. Description The Cruzan Mesa Vernal Pools SEA includes mesas, canyons and interior slopes, with Plum Canyon creek running east -west through the southern portion of the overall SEA. The extent of the SEA encompasses the watershed supporting both of these regionally unique vernal pools, including the immediate watershed surrounding both systems and the corridor in between. Plum Canyon forms the major drainage running east -west through the southern portion of the SEA, draining west toward Bouquet Canyon. Uplands within the SEA are comprised of slopes and canyons supporting coastal sage scrub or scrub -chaparral vegetation. The Cruzan Mesa vernal pool complex lies within an elevated, topographically enclosed basin atop an eroded foothill between Mint and Bouquet canyons. The Plum Canyon vernal pool, situated in a landslide depression on a hillside terrace, is smaller than the Cruzan Mesa pools, but possesses the same essential vernal pool characteristics as the larger system, and the two areas together form an ecologically functional unit. The seasonally wet vernal pools and surrounding open coastal sage scrub and chaparral slopes support a wide variety of migrant and resident birds and other native sage scrub vertebrate species. The steep cliffs which surround Cruzan Mesa, especially along the southeast and north margins, provide protected sites for perching, roosting and nesting by a variety of birds of prey. The SEA supports several regional biological values. These values include: sensitive plant species unique to seasonal pools on heavy clay soils, several of which are at the northernmost point in their overall ranges; seasonal surface water, providing breeding sites for sensitive amphibians, including western spadefoot and Riverside fairy shrimp; vernal pools, found nowhere else in Los Angeles County, and their coastal sage scrub watershed serving as a hydrological filter; seasonal ponds and surrounding mesic vegetation providing essential foraging and wintering sites for migrating birds otherwise uncommon in the southern Liebre Mountains; steep cliffs surrounding the mesa tops and their crevices and cavities providing roosting and nesting sites in the otherwise brush - covered hillsides. These pools are the only three or four such pools in this portion of Southern California. The sensitive resources they support are unique locally and regionally, and biologists consider these to be among most sensitive habitat types in Southern California. Vegetation The SEA encompasses formations of coastal sage scrub, vernal pool and non-native grassland. The vernal pool margins support limited densities of native grasses, but these do not form separate communities and are included within the vernal pool floral matrix. Sensitive plant species occurring or potentially occurring within the SEA are discussed below in the Sensitive Biological Resources section. Plant communities within the SEA were classified using standard methodology and terminology. The communities discussed correspond directly with those listed in Holland's Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California (1986 and 1992 update). Descriptions and general locations of the each plant community present within the SEA are given below. Vernal pool sites occur in the SEA within the southern end of the Cruzan Mesa basin and on a landslide terrace on the northern slope of upper Plum Canyon, about one and one-half aerial miles southwest of the Cruzan Mesa pool system. True vernal pools, which are rare in Southern California and extremely rare in Los Angeles County, form seasonally in shallow, closed basins, usually where a lens of heavy clay soil holds surface water following rainfall events. Agency -listed sensitive plant species occurring within both of the SEA pool systems include California Orcutt grass and spreading navarretia, along with other vernal pool endemics such as hairgrass, woolly -marbles, waterwort, Mimulus latidens and water-starwort. Coastal sage scrub occurs throughout the slopes and ridges of most of the SEA, in places intermixed with chaparral elements. To some extent, the mosaic of coastal sage and chaparral reflects the fire history of any given portion of the site, with scrub formations generally occurring on sites which have more recently burned. However, some slopes within upper Plum and Mint canyons, where no fires have occurred for over 30 years, still support "pure" coastal sage scrub, suggesting that the formation is a climax community on those sites. Dominant species on most slopes within the SEA are California sagebrush, woolly blue - curls, chaparral yucca, black sage, Acton encelia, white sage, and chamise. A variety of less dominant associated species are also present including lance -leaved live -forever, common tarplant, California buckwheat, beavertail cactus, turkish rugging, and Peirson's morning-glory. Disced or cleared areas have regrown with a dense cover of oats and bromes, California poppy, fiddleneck, several species of lupines, popcorn flower, comb - bur and other disturbance -favored native annuals. Less -frequently disturbed portions of the upper watershed basin support dense stands of chamise — California scrub oak chaparral, with yerba santa abundant along dirt roads and other disturbed areas. In the lower portions of canyons and along Plum Canyon creek, where ground -water levels permit, giant rye grass, Mexican elderberry, acourtia, redberry, toyon, holly -leaved cherry, Fremont cottonwood, western sycamore, and arroyo willow occur. Non-native grassland generally consists of invasive annual grasses which are primarily of Mediterranean origin, and which have become the dominant ground cover formation on disturbed sites throughout the western states. Common species within this "community," which is a ruderal formation and not a true habitat or community, include oats, bromes, foxtail chess, and other grasses, along with wild mustards, yellow star thistle, wire lettuce, sow thistle, milk thistle, and other disturbance -favored "weedy" taxa. Non-native ruderal formations occur over most of the Mesa around the vernal pools, where coastal sage scrub has been disturbed or removed, in small strips and patches throughout the SEA primarily along disturbed dirt road edges and where grading or other substrate disturbances have not regrown to native species. Mainland cherry forest is not well described but is typically composed of tall stands of hollyleaf cherry on rocky, dry slopes. Within the SEA, this community is not well developed and inter -mingles with chaparral. It can be found in a single narrow patch on a slope in the southwest portion of the SEA. Wildlife Wildlife diversity and abundance within the SEA are moderate, commensurate with the relative homogeneity of the natural open space habitat types. A number of local wildlife species are more -or -less dependent upon coastal sage scrub or scrub -chaparral formations, while other species are strictly limited to seasonal pool habitats. The two vernal pool systems in the SEA, along with the coastal sage scrub -chaparral uplands surrounding and connecting them constitutes a single, integrated functional ecosystem for wildlife species, both within the SEA boundaries and as a part of the larger regional scrub -chaparral ecosystem. Analysis of invertebrates on any particular site usually is limited by a lack of specific data, but the fact that the SEA contains only two primary natural habitat types insures that there is sufficient acreage to support healthy populations of whatever invertebrate species are present, probably several hundred terrestrial species. The vernal pools, when ponded, form aquatic habitats for a moderately diverse fauna of freshwater arthropods and other invertebrates, including native fairy shrimp, aquatic flies, diving beetles, water scavengers, ostracods, and snails. The only insect order presently known to have a vernal pool endemic within the SEA is Coleoptera, with one vernal pool ground beetle species thus far having been found. Amphibians generally are relatively common in coastal sage scrub habitats with persistent surface hydrology during the breeding season. The SEA supports abundant populations of Pacific chorus frog, western toad, and western spadefoot toad. At least two species of salamander also may be present within more mesic portions of the surrounding canyons and chaparral. Reptile populations in the SEA would include numerous lizard species, including San Diego banded gecko, yucca night lizard, side -blotched lizard, western fence lizard, western skink, San Diego alligator lizard, coastal western whiptail, San Diego horned lizard, and silvery legless lizard. A robust snake fauna also would be expected within the SEA, including western blind snake, coachwhip ("red racer"), chaparral whipsnake, coastal patch -nosed snake, California rosy boa, San Diego gopher snake, California kingsnake, California mountain kingsnake, night snake, and southern Pacific rattlesnake. Bird diversity within the SEA is related to habitat opportunities for year-round residents, seasonal residents, migrating raptors and song birds. Open coastal sage scrub hosts a suite of birds typical of such sites at lower elevations over most of the coastal slopes of Southern California. The most productive sites for resident coastal sage scrub and chaparral birds are around riparian and freshwater systems, which also attract large numbers of migrants during Spring and Fall. The vernal pools attract moderate numbers of migrating waders and waterfowl, and provide important winter foraging areas for resident and migratory birds of prey. Coastal sage and chaparral birds resident or breeding within the SEA include ashy rufous -crowned sparrow, Bell's sparrow, black- chinned sparrow, lark sparrow, California thrasher, spotted towhee, California towhee, phainopepla, northern mockingbird, lazuli bunting, and several species of hummingbird, with additional species (western meadowlark, California horned lark, and perhaps also savannah and grasshopper sparrows) nesting and foraging in the grassland and ruderal habitats surrounding the vernal pools. Birds of prey observed around the vernal pools include red-tailed hawk, northern harrier, white-tailed kite, prairie falcon, and golden eagle. Barn owl, great horned owl, and common raven all nest in the cliffs surrounding Cruzan Mesa. Wildlife Movement The vernal pools situated within this SEA serve as isolated, high resource quality habitat linkage sites for migratory waterfowl. The vernal pools teem with arthropod and amphibian activity, and so provide essential feeding grounds for long-distance migrants, as well as for resident species of reptiles, birds and mammals. The ponds do not lie within any identified terrestrial movement routes for wildlife, but may serve as important seasonal watering sites for species moving through and across the Plum Canyon divide between Mint and Bouquet canyons. The Plum Canyon stream channel undoubtedly serves as a movement pathway for more mobile species of terrestrial mammals, but it no longer links any larger habitat areas directly, due to land conversion in Mint and Bouquet Canyon. Sensitive Biological Resources Sensitive biological resources are habitats or individual species which have been accorded special recognition by federal, state, or local conservation agencies and organizations as endangered, threatened, rare, or otherwise of concern, principally due to the species' declining or limited distribution or population sizes, usually resulting from habitat loss. Watch lists of such resources are maintained by the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and special groups such as the California Native Plant Society (CNPS). The following indicates the habitats as well as plant and animal species present, or potentially present within the SEA, that have been afforded special recognition. Sensitive Plant Communities/Habitats This report/description supports several habitat types considered sensitive by resource agencies, namely the CDFG [California Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB), 2000], because of their scarcity and support of a number of state and federally listed endangered, threatened, and rare vascular plants, as well as sensitive bird and reptile species. These communities include coastal sage scrub, mainland cherry forest, and vernal pool. These communities or closely related designations are considered highest - inventory priority communities by the CDFG, indicating that they are declining in acreage throughout their range due to land use changes. Sensitive Species Sensitive species include those listed, or candidates for listing by the USFWS, CDFG, and CNPS. These sensitive species include, but are not limited to, spreading navarretia, California Orcutt grass, Vernal pool fairy shrimp, San Diego fairy shrimp, Riverside fairy shrimp, golden eagle, California gnatcatcher, San Diego black -tailed jackrabbit, San Diego desert woodrat, and southern grasshopper mouse. In addition, the SEA identifies species observed, recorded in the CNDDB, or reported in previous documentation as observed within or in the immediate vicinity of the SEA. SANTA CLARA RIVER SEA General The Santa Clara River Significant Ecological Area (SEA) encompasses the entire Los Angeles County reach of the Santa Clara River, primarily within unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County. The Santa Clara River SEA covers the length of the river and with the watershed extensions encompasses a wide variety of topographic features and habitat types. The orientation and extent of the SEA also consists of the surface and subsurface hydrology of the Santa Clara River, from its headwater tributaries and watershed basin to the point at which it exits Los Angeles County jurisdiction. Description The eastern portion of the SEA surrounds the Kentucky Springs and Aliso Canyon watersheds, portions of which are within the Angeles National Forest. It follows the river channel downstream through the Acton basin, taking in Arrastre Creek, Mill Canyon and other side drainages and significant rock outcroppings, then stays within the channel to Agua Dulce Canyon, at which point the northern boundary loops around that watershed and includes Vasquez Rocks County Natural Area, while the southern boundary encompasses the lower portion of Bear Canyon and undeveloped portions of Oak Spring Canyon adjacent to the river channel. The southern boundary leaves the river channel at the confluence with Sand Canyon and extends broadly to the south, to include all of the remaining natural areas of the Sand Canyon watershed, along with the major ridgeline, earthquake escarpment, grassland, and canyon habitat features and watersheds of Elsmere, Whitney, Placerita and Bear canyons. From Sand Canyon west the SEA boundary remains close to the margins of the floodplain to the confluence with San Francisquito Canyon, wherein the northern boundary extends northward upstream on that drainage to the headwaters of San Francisquito Creek on the Angeles National Forest, then returns to the river channel and proceeds west to the confluence with Castaic Creek. From here, it extends north around the lower portion of Castaic Creek, embracing the riparian habitat areas around and above the confluence, with the boundaries of the SEA following the Santa Clara River channel to the Ventura County line. The biological and ecological functionality of the SEA is integrally linked to the river basin for its entire length, of course, so the biogeographic limits of the SEA would extend downstream through Los Angeles/Ventura County to its mouth at the Pacific Ocean, and encompass the significant tributary drainages (Piru Creek, Sespe Creek, Santa Paula Creek, Wheeler Creek, etc.). The Kentucky Springs and Aliso Canyon watershed zones originate on National Forest land, in semi -arid chaparral and desert scrub habitat, but the drainages themselves support different formations of desert and interior riparian habitat, ranging from seasonal Great Basin sagebrush wash in Kentucky Springs to dense, mature, willow -cottonwood - sycamore woodlands over permanent streams in Aliso Canyon. The surrounding uplands in the basins support pinyon -juniper woodlands, chamise, mountain mahogany, and manzanita dominated chaparral formations, buckwheat scrub, and ruderal lands. Alluvial terraces within both drainages have been rather extensively cultivated for orchard crops or dryland agriculture, and in more recent years, rural and urban -type residential developments have encroached on the watersheds. Portions of the Aliso Canyon riparian woodlands have been encroached upon by rural development, but the upper portion of the drainage possesses excellent xeric cottonwood -sycamore riparian woodland. The alluvial plain formed along the southern margin of the river basin below these canyons supports intact, high diversity xeric alluvial fan sage scrub. Downstream of the Acton basin the SEA encompasses the Arrastre Creek drainage, which is the type locality for the federally and state endangered unarmored three-spined stickleback fish, and also loops around the high, rounded rocky butte -like outcroppings on the north side of the river. These features, while only a minor part of the watershed of the river, provide important nesting, roosting, and sheltering habitat values for bats, birds of prey, and other sensitive species foraging along the river corridor. Agua Dulce Canyon has a permanent stream and supports high quality riparian habitat formations from the confluence with the river to the intersection with the Antelope Valley Freeway; from that point north the riparian areas are fragmented, improving and maturing significantly where the creeks pass through Vasquez Rocks County Natural Area. The alluvial terraces along the river channel as it enters the eastern portion of the Santa Clarita Valley support alluvial fan sage scrub, Great Basin sagebrush scrub, coast live oak woodland, and coastal sage scrub habitats. The alluvial fans of Oak Springs Canyon and Sand Canyon are important recharge grounds for the river aquifer; surface flows from both canyons presently entering the Santa Clara River basin through natural, unconfined channels. Recognizing the importance of this drainage, the SEA boundaries have been drawn to encompass the entire Sand Canyon -Bear Canyon watershed, most of which is within the National Forest. The major habitat linkage zones and watersheds between the river basin and the National Forest, and the protected areas of the county (Placerita Canyon Natural Area) have also been included within the SEA boundary. These canyons form a natural movement zone for wildlife moving across and through the western end of the San Gabriel range to the Santa Susana range and the Santa Clara River basin, and together encompass a spectrum of significant and unique habitat, vegetation and wildlife resources. The segment of the Santa Clara River passing through the City of Santa Clarita is a dry channel except during seasonal runoff flows. Regardless of this condition, it supports relatively intact stands of alluvial sage scrub formations, riparian woodland, and southern riparian scrub. The dry zones are essential to the continued genetic isolation of the unarmored three-spined stickleback population in the upper reaches of the river. San Francisquito Creek supports dense and mature southern riparian scrub and riparian woodland formations, along with small areas of freshwater marsh, providing essential wintering areas and resident habitat for waterfowl, wading birds, marshland birds, and a variety of other vertebrate species. After San Francisquito Creek passes from County land into the National Forest, the channel flows become less seasonal, and riparian resources expand and diversify. Relatively vast areas of willow -cottonwood forest and southern riparian scrub occur west of San Francisquito Creek and within the junction zone of Castaic Creek and the Santa Clara River, supporting numerous sensitive species and providing multi -layered riparian habitat for a wide diversity of wildlife species, particularly birds of prey and riparian -obligate songbirds. The Santa Clara River channel and its alluvial terraces and tributary creeks together form the single most important and natural value wildlife movement zone through Los Angeles County. Mobile species can enter the river basin anywhere along its length (outside of developed areas) and proceed in either direction without having to pass through narrow culverts or blind channels, with continuous vegetative cover and only short stretches of dry substrates. The overall drainage course provides a continuum of aquatic and terrestrial movement opportunities, shelter, forage, and resident habitat from the mouth of the river at Ventura to the Antelope Valley. The drainage course connects to both districts of the Angeles National Forest, and links together two large public resource preserves (Vasquez Rocks and Placerita County Natural Areas). Vegetation Plant communities within the SEA include: bigcone spruce -canyon oak forest, coast live oak woodland, coast live oak riparian forest, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, coastal sage scrub -chaparral mixed scrub, non-native and native grasslands, alluvial fan sage scrub, southern cottonwood -willow riparian woodland and forest, southern sycamore -alder woodland, southern willow scrub, vernal pool, pinyon -juniper woodland, juniper woodland, freshwater marsh, and disturbed. Transitional zones (ecotones) between these communities often contain unusual species compositions. Sensitive plant species occurring or potentially occurring within the SEA are discussed below in the Sensitive Biological Resources section. Plant communities within the SEA were classified using standard methodology and terminology. Most of the communities discussed correspond directly with those listed in Holland's Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California (1986 and 1992 update); some communities are named based upon the dominant species within them and/or other commonly used terminology. Descriptions and general locations of each plant community present within the SEA are given below. Bigcone spruce -canyon oak forest formations typically occur in higher elevation draws on north -facing slopes, and may have incense cedar, big -leaf maple, California bay, and other shade -loving species intermixed, depending upon slope orientation, substrates, and fire history. Understory vegetation usually is dominated by chaparral species such as scrub oak, poison oak, wild grape, and manzanita. This community occurs on watershed slopes in the eastern portion of the SEA, and in a few of the narrower, more mesic canyons along the southern side of Soledad Canyon. Coast live oak woodland consists of moderate -density overstory formations of coast live oak trees, usually on erosional plains along the margins of canyon bottoms and on lower slopes in chaparral and coastal sage scrub understory habitats. Mexican elderberry, chaparral currant, squawbush, and California peony are frequent in the understory. Extensive stands of this formation occur in Sand, Placerita, Bear, Whitney, Elsmere, and Soledad Canyons, and in unnamed tributary canyons to these drainages. Coast live oak riparian forest is a variation of coast live oak woodland wherein the canopy is more closely grown, and the trees occur in narrower formations along watercourses. Willow, California bay, mulefat, and other riparian species often occur in the understory. Juniper woodland is an open formation dominated by California juniper, often with an understory of foothill yucca, buckwheat, and other scrub species. This community is found on lower slopes within the eastern portion of the SEA and is mixed with a few joshua trees and chaparral species in several places. Pinyon -juniper woodland in the SEA typically consists of a mixture of single -needle leaf pinyon pine and California juniper, with mountain mahogany, buckwheat, squawbush, foothill yucca, penstemons, and native grasses. This formation occurs on middle elevation north -facing slopes in the Kentucky Springs watershed, and sporadically along the same orientations south of Acton. Southern cottonwood -willow riparian woodland and forest is a broad -leafed winter - deciduous habitat dominated by Fremont cottonwood, in places mixed with black cottonwood, various species of willow, rarely an alder, and on drier sites, western sycamore. Southern cottonwood -willow riparian woodland (or forest) occurs in numerous reaches of the SEA, forming mature overstory habitat on the Santa Clara River, its main tributaries, oxbow ponds, and alluvial plains. Some of the most extensive formations occur just west of Acton, in upper Aliso Canyon, in lower San Francisquito Canyon, and from Santa Clarita to the Ventura County border. Large tracts of cottonwood -willow habitat occur in Ventura County as well. Southern sycamore -alder woodland is a formation which most often occurs on broad plains with heavy alluvial substrates, often along narrow creeks and streams with high- energy, permanent flows within the SEA. Alders typically occur along the watercourse, while sycamores usually grow a bit further from the active flowing channel. This community is uncommon within the SEA, occurring only in the upper reaches of the watershed and in portions of Bear, Sand, and Placerita Canyons and to a lesser extent in Aliso Canyon. Southern willow scrub is a riparian community consisting of dense, broad -leafed, winter- deciduous riparian thickets occurring within and adjacent to seasonal or permanent water courses. The "scrub" formation generally is sub -mature — a state which often is maintained by frequent heavy over -flooding — and may attain woodland or forest stature if undisturbed for several decades. Dominant species of this community within the SEA are mulefat, sandbar willow, and arroyo willow. Within the SEA this community occurs throughout the tributary and primary drainages, wherever the habitat structure is maintained or repeatedly altered by frequent high water flows. Freshwater marsh develops in areas of still or slow -moving permanent freshwater. This community is dominated by the perennial, emergent cattail or bulrush, which may reach heights of 7 feet and grow dense enough to form a closed canopy. This formation occurs in scattered ponds and slow -flow portions of the river and tributaries within the SEA. Vernal pool systems are extremely rare in Los Angeles County and there are only two verified vernal pools currently recognized within the area; Cruzan Mesa and Plum Canyon. However, there is at least one small seasonal pond with typical vernal pool characteristics within the upper Placerita-Sand Canyon watershed break. This small pool is surrounded by coastal sage scrub, with a band of native needlegrass and melic grass on its fringes, and supports Riverside fairy shrimp and western spadefoot toad. It is considered a vernal pool by virtue of its habitat values and species unique to this type of seasonal formation. Chaparral consists of broad -leafed or needle -leafed, sclerophyllous (hard -leafed), medium height to tall shrubs that form a dense cover on steep slopes, usually below 5,000 feet in Southern California. Dominant species found within this community include scrub oaks (several species), chamise, manzanita, wild lilac, toyon, and western mountain -mahogany on north -facing exposures; buckwheat, foothill yucca, chamise, hoary -leaf lilac, black sage, and goldenbush on south -facing slopes. This plant community occupies most of the basin slopes along the Santa Clara River and on interior ridges and slopes within the watersheds and drainages west of Acton. Chaparral also occurs on some of the higher elevations of the eastern watershed portions of the SEA, where the shrubs frequently are interspersed as understory formations within oak and conifer woodlands. Coastal sage scrub and coastal sage scrub -chaparral mixed scrub are formations which typically occur on south or west -facing slopes within the western portion of the SEA. Some sites may be artifacts of fire frequency or occurrence, while other areas appear to be stable scrub communities. Dominant species typically are California sagebrush, purple sage, black sage, white sage, goldenbush, buckwheat, foothill yucca, California encelia, brittlebush, golden yarrow, chamise, hoary -leaf lilac, and a variety of annuals and bulbs. Excellent examples of coastal sage scrub occur in upper Placerita Canyon watershed and on the ridgeline to the north, along the Santa Clara River just east of Sand Canyon, and in San Francisquito Canyon. Alluvial fan sage scrub, sometimes also known as floodplain sage scrub, generally consists of a mixture of shrubs which colonize and persist within infrequently scoured and flooded terrain such as floodplains, alluvial plains, or along seasonal streams. The dominant shrub in most washes is scalebroom, but Great Basin sage brush, rabbitbrush, and foothill yucca also usually occur in the habitat type, and may be dominant depending upon substrates and subsurface hydrology. This vegetation type is common throughout the alluvial plains and washes in the SEA, forming particularly high diversity stands along the southern margin of the river at Acton, on uplands east of the Sand Canyon confluence, along the dry reaches of the river in Santa Clarita, and in lower San Francisquito Canyon. Extensive stands of Great Basin sagebrush -dominated alluvial scrub occur around Acton and in the Kentucky Springs portion of the SEA. Native and non-native grassland communities consist of low, herbaceous vegetation dominated by grasses, with native formations generally mixed with native bulbs and other herbaceous species, often intermixed with naturalized annual taxa. There are representatives of native grasslands scattered within the SEA, most notably patches of different needlegrass species and melic grasses on clay soils in Placerita Canyon, on slope wetlands and around oak on the ridge north of Placerita, and on less -disturbed xeric slopes in the eastern portion of the SEA. Seeps in chaparral often support homogeneous stands of giant rye; other native grasses occur sporadically within most natural habitats along the Santa Clara basin. Non-native grassland consists of invasive annual grasses that are primarily of Mediterranean origin. Dominant species within this "community," which is a ruderal formation and not a true habitat or community, include oats, bromes, foxtail chess, and other grasses, along with wild mustards and other disturbance -favored "weedy" taxa. Non-native grasslands and other ruderal formations are the dominant understory on most disturbed substrates, and particular grazed areas. Disturbed or barren areas either completely lack vegetation or are dominated by ruderal species. Ruderal vegetation typically found within the SEA includes non-native and native grasses and "weedy" herbaceous species, including doveweed, mustards, wire lettuce, sow thistle, telegraph weed, Russian thistle, dock, yellow star thistle, Australian saltbush, and cocklebur. Disturbed areas occur throughout the SEA on fallow agricultural sites, disked fields, abandoned pastures, residential development, paved road margins, fire breaks, dirt access roads, trails, and other similarly disturbed areas. Wildlife Wildlife within the SEA is extremely diverse and abundant, commensurate with extensive acreages of natural open space and great diversity of habitat types, within the river channels and on the surrounding uplands. While a few wildlife species may be entirely dependent upon or obligate within a single vegetative community, the mosaic of vegetation communities within the area and adjoining uplands constitutes a continuum of functional ecosystems. These ecosystems support a wide variety of wildlife species, within the SEA boundaries and as a part of the regional ecosystem. Analysis of invertebrates on any given site generally is limited by a lack of specific data, but the size of the SEA and diversity of habitats present are considered sufficient to support healthy populations of a very large number of invertebrate species, probably in excess of 2,500 species. The riparian formations, wetlands, and aquatic habitats within the SEA support diverse faunas of arthropods, including native fairy shrimp, craneflies, blackflies and other aquatic dipterans, stoneflies, caddisflies, and dobsonflies, water boatmen, giant water bugs, ground beetles, diving beetles, and tiger beetles. Terrestrial insects abound around riparian corridors and in scrub habitats, and are particularly abundant in oak -dominated habitats. Insect orders very well -represented taxonomically, and with some habitat specialization within the Santa Clara River SEA include Orthoptera, Neuroptera, Coleoptera, Diptera, Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera. Amphibians are abundant and relatively diverse within moister woodland areas, along montane canyon bottoms, in riparian areas, and within surface water features of the SEA. The overall riparian systems of the Santa Clara River basin support abundant populations of Pacific and California chorus frogs, western toad, western spadefoot toad, bullfrog, and African clawed frog (the latter two species are non-native), and in San Francisquito Canyon, California red -legged frog and southwestern arroyo toad. Arboreal, painted, and garden slender salamanders also are present within mesic habitats in the SEA. Open scrub, chaparral and alluvial fan habitats support diverse reptile populations, and the overall herpetofauna of the SEA would encompass numerous lizard species, along with southwestern pond turtle in Agua Dulce and Bear canyons. Yucca night lizard, side -blotched lizard, western fence lizard, western skink, San Diego alligator lizard, coastal western whiptail, San Diego horned lizard, desert horned lizard, silvery legless lizard and San Diego desert banded gecko all would be expected within the SEA. The SEA also supports a robust snake fauna, including western blind snake, coachwhip ("red racer"), chaparral whipsnake, coastal patch -nosed snake, California rosy boa, San Diego gopher snake, glossy snake, California kingsnake, mountain kingsnake, long - nosed snake, night snake, California lyre snake, California black -headed snake, two - striped garter snake, San Bernardino ring-necked snake, southern Pacific rattlesnake. Bird diversity within the SEA is related to habitat opportunities for year-round residents, seasonal residents, migrating raptors, and song birds. Coastal sage scrub and chaparral host a suite of birds typical of such sites at lower elevations over most of the coastal slopes of Southern California. The most productive sites for resident coastal sage scrub and chaparral birds are around riparian and freshwater systems, which also attract large numbers of migrants during Spring and Fall. Coastal sage and chaparral birds resident or breeding within the SEA includes Southern California (ashy) rufous - crowned sparrow, Bell's sparrow, black -chinned sparrow, lark sparrow, lazuli bunting, California gnatcatcher, California quail, greater roadrunner, spotted towhee, California towhee, California thrasher, phainopepla, northern mockingbird, and Anna's, Costa's, and black -chinned hummingbirds. Oak woodlands and riparian areas support many more species; notable species consist of the summer tanager, Bullock's oriole, black - headed grosbeak, band -tailed pigeon, western wood pewee, several swallow species, western yellow -billed cuckoo, willow flycatcher, and least Bell's vireo. Species associated with ruderal sites and grasslands include western meadowlark, California horned lark, and savannah and grasshopper sparrows. Birds of prey (including common migrants) observed within the SEA include red -shouldered hawk, red-tailed hawk, Cooper's hawk, sharp -shinned hawk, Swainson's hawk, merlin, American kestrel, northern harrier, white-tailed kite, prairie falcon, and golden eagle. Resident owl species within the SEA boundaries include barn owl, great horned owl, long eared owl, and California spotted owl. Native mammal diversity within the SEA is considerable. These include bats (at least seven species), rodents (at least four species of deer mice, two species of woodrat, Beechey ground squirrel, western gray squirrel, and more), two types of rabbits and one hare, broad -handed mole, long-tailed weasel, American badger, spotted and striped skunks, raccoon, gray fox, bobcat, coyote, mountain lion, and mule deer. Black bear also occur within the SEA boundaries, at least occasionally, but the San Gabriel Mountains population was introduced for game use, and this species is not native within the SEA. Wildlife Movement Historically (and prehistorically) the riparian corridor along the Santa Clara River has served as the primary east -west linkage between the Pacific coastline, coast ranges, interior ranges, high desert and southern Sierra (via the Tehachapi range). Animals moving through the Santa Clara drainage had unobstructed passage along the river and within the riparian systems between the coastal lowlands of Ventura and the Mojave Desert, with tributary routes extending south into the San Gabriel range, northward via Castaic, Bouquet and San Francisquito tributaries over the Transverse range and into the San Joaquin Valley, west into the central coast ranges, or east through the Tehachapis and into the southern Sierra Nevada. The present configuration of the tributary drainages has impinged upon connectivity from the Santa Clarita Valley to the north, but the Santa Clara River remains relatively intact and open. The SEA embraces the river corridor and the linkage zones considered essential to insuring connectivity and resource values within the historic movement zones for all of the wildlife species present within the Los Angeles County portion of the Santa Clara River. Sensitive Biological Resources Sensitive biological resources are habitats or individual species which have been afforded special recognition by federal, state, or local conservation agencies and organizations as endangered, threatened, rare, or otherwise of concern; this is principally due to the species' declining or limited distribution or population sizes, usually resulting from habitat loss. Watch lists of such resources are maintained by the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and special groups such as the California Native Plant Society (CNPS). The following sections indicate the habitats as well as plant and animal species present, or potentially present within the SEA, that have been afforded special recognition. Sensitive Plant Communities/Habitats This report/description supports several habitat types considered sensitive by resource agencies, namely the CDFG [California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB), 2000] because of their scarcity and support of a number of state and federally listed endangered, threatened, and rare vascular plants, as well as sensitive bird and reptile species. These communities include: bigcone spruce -canyon oak forest, coast live oak riparian forest, southern willow scrub, southern cottonwood -willow riparian woodland, sycamore -alder woodland, freshwater marsh, alluvial fan sage scrub, native grassland, and vernal pool. These communities or closely related designations are considered highest -inventory priority communities by the CDFG, indicating that they are declining in acreage throughout their range due to land use changes. Sensitive Species Sensitive species include those listed, or candidates for listing by the USFWS, CDFG, and CNPS. These species include, but are not limited to, Nevin's barberry, spreading navarretia, slender -horned spineflower, California Orcutt grass, Riverside fairy shrimp, unarmored threespine stickleback, Santa Ana sucker, arroyo southwestern toad, California red -legged frog, southwestern pond turtle, California horned lizard, San Diego mountain king snake, two -striped garter snake, California condor, Swainson's hawk, White-tailed kite, California gnatcatcher, least Bell's vireo, and ringtail cat. In addition, the SEA identifies other species observed, recorded in the CNDDB, or reported in previous documentation as observed within or in the immediate vicinity of the SEA. SANTA FELICIA SEA General The Santa Felicia Significant Ecological Area (SEA) encompasses the almost the entire Los Angeles County portion of the Santa Felicia watershed draining into Lake Piru. This watershed is largely undeveloped and contains vast stands of intact coast sage scrub and chaparral communities on south and north facing slopes, respectively. In addition to the undisturbed upland habitats, the watershed is dissected by excellent examples of mixed riparian (sycamore -willow), oak riparian and coast live oak forests and alluvial scrub in the bottomlands. Non-native grasslands occur in areas where grazing has taken place; however, there is little invasion of these ruderal taxa into the native communities. A brief summary of the plant communities present, or likely to occur, within the SEA is provided in the vegetation section below. Description The Santa Felicia SEA includes a wide variety of topographic features and habitat types. The orientation and extent of the SEA encompasses the surface and subsurface hydrology of the Santa Felicia watershed, from its headwater, tributaries, and basin to the point at which it exits Los Angeles County jurisdiction. The northern portion of the SEA is within the Angeles National Forest. Capturing the watershed tributaries, the eastern boundary follows a predominate ridgeline, the western boundary is the county border and the southern boundary captures two other small tributaries that feed the Santa Felicia, to encompass almost the entire watershed that ultimately drains into Lake Piru in Ventura County. Vegetation Plant communities within the SEA include: coast live oak woodland, coast live oak riparian forest, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, chaparral, non-native and native grasslands, alluvial fan sage scrub, and sycamore -willow riparian woodland. Sensitive plant species occurring or potentially occurring within the SEA are discussed in the Sensitive Biological Resources section of this document. Plant communities within the SEA were classified using standard methodology and terminology. Most of the communities discussed correspond directly with those listed in Holland's Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California (1986 and 1992 update); some communities are named based upon the dominant species within them and/or other commonly used terminology. Descriptions of several plant communities present within the SEA are given below. Coast live oak woodland consists of moderate -density overstory formations of coast live oak trees, usually on erosional plains along the margins of canyon bottoms and on lower slopes in chaparral and coastal sage scrub understory habitats. Coast live oak riparian forest is a variation of coast live oak woodland wherein the canopy is more closely grown, and the trees occur in narrower formations along watercourses. Willow, California bay, mulefat, and other riparian species often occur in the understory. Sycamore -willow riparian woodland may include the following: western sycamore, black willow, arroyo willow, skunkbush, and California blackberry. Alluvial fan scrub generally consists of a mixture of shrubs, including scalebroom, California buckwheat, and white sage, which colonize and persist within infrequently scoured and flooded terrain such as floodplains, alluvial plains, or along seasonal streams. Chaparral consists of broad -leafed or needle -leafed, sclerophyllous (hard -leafed), medium height to tall shrubs that form a dense cover on steep slopes, usually below 5,000 feet in Southern California. Dominant species found within this community include scrub oak, toyon, manzanita, and white sage. Coastal sage scrub dominant species typically are California sagebrush, purple sage, giant wildrye, coyotebush, and California buckwheat. Non-native grassland consists of invasive annual grasses that are primarily of Mediterranean origin, including short -pod mustard, tocalote, and ripgut brome. Native grassland communities consist of low, herbaceous vegetation dominated by grasses, with native formations generally mixed with native bulbs and other herbaceous species, often intermixed with naturalized annual taxa. Wildlife Wildlife within the SEA is extremely diverse and abundant, commensurate with extensive acreages of natural open space and great diversity of habitat types, within the stream channels and on the surrounding uplands. While a few wildlife species may be entirely dependent upon or obligate within a single vegetative community, the mosaic of vegetation communities within the area and adjoining uplands constitutes a continuum of functional ecosystems. These ecosystems support a wide variety of wildlife species, within the SEA boundaries and as a part of the regional ecosystem. Analysis of invertebrates on any given site generally is limited by a lack of specific data, but the size of the SEA and diversity of habitats present are considered sufficient to support healthy populations of a very large number of invertebrate species. The riparian formations and aquatic habitats within the SEA support diverse faunas of arthropods, which may include native fairy shrimp, craneflies, blackflies and other aquatic dipterans, stoneflies, caddisflies, and dobsonflies, water boatmen, giant water bugs, ground beetles, diving beetles, and tiger beetles. Terrestrial insects abound around riparian corridors and in scrub habitats, and are particularly abundant in oak -dominated habitats. Amphibians are abundant and relatively diverse within moister woodland areas, along montane canyon bottoms, in riparian areas, and within surface water features of the SEA. The overall riparian systems of the SEA provide habitat for a number of frog and toad populations, which may include populations of Pacific and California chorus frogs, western toad, and western spadefoot toad as well as the California red -legged frog and southwestern Arroyo toad. Open scrub, chaparral and alluvial fan habitats support diverse reptile populations, and the overall herpetofauna of the SEA would encompass numerous lizard species as well as a robust snake fauna. Bird diversity within the SEA is related to habitat opportunities for year-round residents, seasonal residents, migrating raptors, and song birds. Coastal sage scrub and chaparral host a suite of birds typical of such sites at lower elevations over most of the coastal slopes of Southern California. The most productive sites for resident coastal sage scrub and chaparral birds are around riparian and freshwater systems, which also attract large numbers of migrants during Spring and Fall. Oak woodlands and riparian areas generally support many more species; notable species consist of the summer tanager, Bullock's oriole, black -headed grosbeak, band -tailed pigeon, western wood pewee, several swallow species, western yellow -billed cuckoo, willow flycatcher, and least Bell's vireo. Native mammal diversity within the SEA is considerable. These likely include bats, rodents, squirrel, rabbits, mole, weasel, badger, skunks, raccoon, gray fox, bobcat, coyote, and mule deer. Black bear may also occur within the SEA boundaries, at least occasionally, but the San Gabriel Mountains population was introduced for game use, and this species is not native within the SEA. Wildlife Movement Historically riparian corridors have served as linkages between the Pacific coastline, coast ranges, interior ranges, the high desert and southern Sierras (via the Tehachapi range). Animals move through the Santa Felicia watershed along and within the riparian systems between Piru Lake in Ventura County and the San Gabriel Mountain range and beyond. The tributary drainages in this SEA appear fully intact and open. Sensitive Biological Resources Sensitive biological resources are habitats or individual species which have been afforded special recognition by federal, state, or local conservation agencies and organizations as endangered, threatened, rare, or otherwise of concern; this is principally due to the species' declining or limited population sizes, usually resulting from habitat loss. Watch lists of such resources are maintained by the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and special groups such as the California Native Plant Society (CNPS). The following sections indicate the habitats as well as plant and animal species present, or potentially present within the SEA, that have been afforded special recognition. Sensitive Plant Communities/Habitats The Santa Felicia SEA supports several habitat types considered sensitive by resource agencies, namely the CDFG [California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB)] because of their scarcity and support of a number of state and federally listed endangered, threatened, and rare vascular plants, as well as sensitive bird and reptile species. These communities include: coast live oak, coast live oak riparian forest, alluvial fan sage scrub, and native grassland. These communities or closely related designations are considered highest -inventory priority communities by the CDFG, indicating that they are declining in acreage throughout their range due to land use changes. Sensitive Species Sensitive species include those listed, or candidates for listing by the USFWS, CDFG, and CNPS. These species include, but are not limited to, the California condor, red - legged frog and Arroyo toad. The SEA identifies other species observed, recorded in the CNDDB, or reported in previous documentation as observed within or in the immediate vicinity of the SEA. SANTA SUSANA MOUNTAINS/SIMI HILLS SEA General The Santa Susana Mountains/Simi Hills Significant Ecological Area (SEA) is located northwest of the San Fernando Valley within unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County and an incorporated area of the City of Los Angeles west of Chatsworth. The area is south of State Route 126 (SR-126) and the Santa Clara River, west of the Golden State Freeway (Interstate 5), and includes much of the Santa Susana Mountains in the north, the Santa Susana Pass, Chatsworth Reservoir, and the eastern portion of the Simi Hills in the south. Description The Santa Susana Mountains/Simi Hills SEA includes a variety of topographic features; the northern portion of the SEA encompasses Oat Mountain and much of the Santa Susana Mountains from the Los Angeles County line east to Interstate 5. Portions of many of the canyons associated with the Santa Susana Mountains and Oat Mountain are also included such as Salt Canyon, Potrero Canyon, Pico Canyon, Towsley Canyon, El Toro Canyon, Sulphur Canyon, Devil Canyon, Ybarra Canyon, Browns Canyon, Bee Canyon, and Mormon Canyon. Several blue -line streams occur within these canyons and support many natural springs. The north slopes of the Santa Susana Mountains are within the Santa Clara River watershed which drains the Los Padres National Forest to the north, the Angeles National Forest to the northeast and east, and the Santa Susana Mountains to the south and southeast. The remainder of the SEA is within the Los Angeles River watershed. The majority of the land in the SEA is natural open space with very sparse disturbances in the form of ranches, oil wells, and unimproved access roads. The SEA consists of east -west and northwest trending primary ridges and north - south trending secondary ridges. The peak of Oat Mountain represents the highest point in the SEA at 3,747 feet above mean sea level (MSL). The open space within the SEA supports a variety of communities but is dominated by chaparral, oak woodlands, coastal sage scrub, bigcone spruce -canyon oak woodland, and grasslands. The creeks and canyons support riparian scrub and woodland communities. At its southern end, the SEA includes the eastern portion of the Simi Hills including the east -facing slopes descending from Chatsworth Peak. Chatsworth Reservoir forms a portion of the south boundary and is currently dry except for a small detention basin north of the reservoir. Vegetation The plant communities within the Santa Susana Mountains/Simi Hills SEA are composed of numerous plant species. These plant species are adapted to a Mediterranean climate with a cool, wet season followed by a hot, dry season. Due to the topographic complexity and combination of coastal and desert influences, the SEA supports a wide diversity of plant species. Plant communities within the SEA were classified using standard methodology and terminology. Most of the communities discussed in this study correspond directly with those listed in Holland's Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California (1986 and 1992 update). Other communities are named based on dominant species within them and/or commonly used terminology. Descriptions and general locations of each plant community present within the SEA are given below. These include chaparral, coastal sage scrub, alluvial scrub, coast live oak woodlands, valley oak woodland, mainland cherry forest, non-native grassland, native grassland, southern willow scrub, southern cottonwood -willow riparian forest, and disturbed communities. Chaparral consists of a broad mix of evergreen species and generally occurs below 5,000 feet in Southern California. Dominant species consist of broad-leaved or needle - leafed sclerophyllous (hard -leafed) shrubs, forming a dense, impenetrable cover with little or no understory growth. The understory typically consists of a considerable accumulation of leaf litter. In areas of less dense shrub cover, the understory consists of non-native grasses and other annual forbs. Dominant species include chamise, laurel sumac, hoary -leaved ceanothus, woolly -leaved ceanothus, and toyon. Chaparral is the dominant plant community within the SEA and covers many of the steep slopes and hillsides in the upper elevations. Coastal sage scrub communities consist of drought -deciduous, low, soft -leaved shrubs and herbs on gentle to steep slopes under 3,000 feet in elevation. Several dominant species may occur within scrub communities, with some areas overwhelmingly dominated by one or two species. Dominant species include California sagebrush, California buckwheat, California bush sunflower, purple sage, and deerweed. Coastal sage scrub is found at the lower elevations within the SEA on drier south -facing slopes, but can also be found on the north -facing slopes and canyon of the Santa Susana Mountains. Alluvial scrub consists of a mixture of shrubs that colonize sandy -gravelly flood deposited soils within intermittent creeks, arroyos, and drier terraces in large washes. This community intergrades with sage scrub communities and riparian communities and, therefore, occurs adjacent to these communities. Dominant species include Great Basin sagebrush, scalebroom, big saltbush, and squaw bush. Alluvial scrub is predominately found at the northern end of the SEA in Salt Canyon. Coast live oak woodlands commonly occur along drainages that experience at least a seasonal flow or in other areas under mesic conditions. Soil structure and soil moisture are the most important limiting factors for the survival of oak woodlands; soils must be deep, uncompacted, fertile, well -aerated, and well -drained. This community is dominated by coast live oak. If sufficient groundwater is present, western sycamores, usually associated with riparian habitats, may also occur in the oak woodland. Oak woodlands occupy areas within the canyons and drainages of the SEA. Valley oak woodland is an open -canopy woodland found on deep, well -drained alluvial soils below 2,000 feet. This community is almost exclusively dominated by valley oak with a grassy understory to form a savannah -like community. This community is located in small pockets in the eastern portion of the SEA. Mainland cherry forest is not well described but is typically composed of tall stands of hollyleaf cherry on rocky, dry, north -facing slopes. Within the SEA, coast live oak is co - dominant within this community and can be found in canyons in the northern portion of the study area. This community can also be found in association with alluvial scrub in the northwestern portion of the study area as it approaches the Santa Clara River. Grassland communities consist of low, herbaceous vegetation that are dominated by grasses but generally also harbor native forbs and bulbs as well as naturalized annual forbs. Topographic factors that contribute to grassland presence include gradual slopes or flat areas with deep, well -developed soils in areas below 3,000 above MSL. The species richness of grassland communities is dependent upon a number of land use factors, including intensity and duration of natural or anthropogenic disturbances such as grazing. Heavily grazed grasslands have a lower species richness. Non-native grassland consists of dominant invasive annual grasses that are primarily of Mediterranean origin. Dominant species found within this community include slender wild oat, wild oat, ripgut brome, and foxtail chess. Native grassland is often associated with coastal sage scrub and is found in pockets in close proximity to coastal sage scrub and non-native grassland. This community consists of at least ten percent cover of native purple needlegrass. The remaining vegetative cover is made up of non-native grasses found in annual grassland and a variety of annual, wild flowers such as golden stars and blue-eyed grass. Small patches of native grassland can be found scattered throughout the SEA mostly in openings in coastal sage scrub and mixed with non-native grasslands. Southern willow scrub is a riparian community occurring within and adjacent to water courses. The vegetation within this community is adapted to seasonal flooding. Southern willow scrub is characterized by dense, broad leafed, winter -deciduous riparian thickets dominated by one or more willow species. Most stands are too dense to allow understory development. The dominant species of this community within the SEA is arroyo willow, red willow, and black willow, with less common associates including mule fat. This community occurs in segments along portions of the intermittent drainages within the SEA. Southern cottonwood -willow riparian forest consists of an open, broad-leaved, winter -deciduous riparian forest dominated by Fremont cottonwood, black cottonwood, and several willow species including arroyo willow and red willow. This community occupies much of the Santa Clara River adjacent to the northern boundary of the SEA and also occurs within the larger, intermittent and perennial drainages within the SEA. Disturbed or barren areas either completely lack vegetation or are dominated by ruderal species. Ruderal vegetation typically found onsite include non-native grasses and a high proportion of weedy species, including tocalote, telegraph weed, tree tobacco, doveweed, black mustard, and thistle species. Several disturbed areas occur scattered throughout the SEA and take the form of residential developments, highways, fire breaks, dirt access roads, trails, transmission poles, and other similarly disturbed areas. Wildlife Wildlife within the SEA is generally diverse and abundant due to the large acreage of natural open space and the diversity of habitat types. While a few wildlife species are entirely dependent on a single vegetative community, the entire mosaic of all the vegetation communities within the area and adjoining areas constitutes a functional ecosystem for a variety of wildlife species. This applies to the SEA and the regional ecosystem. The analysis of invertebrates in this study is difficult due to the lack of data, although limited studies have been conducted. The SEA is believed to support healthy populations of a diverse assortment of countless invertebrate species. Amphibian populations are generally restricted in semi -arid and and habitats but may be particularly abundant where riparian areas occur. The SEA is likely to support a variety of amphibians in abundance within wetland areas along the major canyon bottoms and the moister oak woodland areas. Many essential reptilian habitat characteristics such as open habitats that allow free movement and high visibility and small mammal burrows for cover and escape from predators and extreme weather are present within the SEA. These characteristics as well as the variety of habitat types present are likely to support a wide variety of reptilian species. The scrubland, woodland, riparian, and grassland habitats in the SEA provide foraging and cover habitat for year-round residents, seasonal residents, and migrating song birds. In addition, the SEA encompasses many year-round water sources, abundant raptor foraging, perching, and nesting habitat. The combination of these resources as well as the mosaic of many community types provides for an unusually high diversity of bird species. Several of these species may use this SEA as their only consistent occurrence in the southeastern portion of the county. Not unlike other taxonomic groups, mammal populations within the SEA are diverse and reflective of the diversity of habitat types. Unlike many other inland hills within the Los Angeles Basin, this SEA is large enough to support relatively stabile large mammal populations despite the urban surroundings. Wildlife Movement The Santa Susana Mountains/Simi Hills SEA includes several important linkages for wildlife movement. The Simi Hills and Santa Susana Mountains provide a vast open space corridor to foster wildlife movement between the Santa Monica Mountains to the south, San Gabriel Mountains to the east, and Los Padres National Forest to the north. Dense, natural habitat associated with the majority of the study area provides excellent opportunities for concealment and water sources while the grasslands provide an abundance of prey. Sensitive Biological Resources Sensitive biological resources are habitats or individual species that have special recognition by federal, state, or local conservation agencies and organizations as endangered, threatened, rare, or otherwise sensitive; this is due to the species' declining or limited distribution or population sizes, usually resulting from habitat loss. Watch lists of such resources are maintained by the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and special groups such as the California Native Plant Society (CNPS). The following sections indicate the habitats as well as plant and animal species present, or potentially present within the SEA, that have been afforded special recognition. Sensitive Plant Communities/Habitats This report/description supports several habitat types considered sensitive by resource agencies, namely the CDFG [California Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB), 2000], because of their scarcity and support of a number of state and federally listed endangered, threatened, and rare vascular plants, as well as several sensitive bird and reptile species. These communities include coastal sage scrub, alluvial scrub, valley oak woodland, mainland cherry woodland, native grassland, southern willow scrub, and cottonwood -willow riparian forest which occur throughout the area. These communities or closely related designations are considered highest -inventory priority communities by the CDFG, indicating that they are experiencing a decline throughout their range. Sensitive Species Sensitive species include those listed, or candidates for listing by the USFWS, CDFG, and CNPS. Species which have been recorded within the SEA as well as those reasonably expected to occur include, but are not limited to, Lyon's pentachaeta, Nevin's barberry, Braunton's milk vetch, slender -horned spineflower, arroyo southwestern toad, California red -legged frog, California condor, Swainson's hawk, white-tailed kite, and southwestern willow flycatcher. The table includes locations of sensitive species observed, recorded in the CNDDB, or reported in previous documentation as observed within or in the immediate vicinity of the SEA. VALLEY OAKS SAVANNAH SEA General The Valley Oaks Savannah Significant Ecological Area (SEA) is located northeast of the Santa Susana Mountains and west of the Angeles National Forest, approximately one mile south of the Santa Clara River and one mile north of Pico Canyon. The SEA is bordered on the east by Interstate 5 and is situated between Valencia Boulevard and McBean Parkway. To the west, the SEA is bordered by the foothills of the Santa Susana Mountains which are dominated by chaparral. Description The Valley Oaks Savannah SEA is almost completely undisturbed except for a few dirt roads. The majority of the vegetation on the site consists of a valley oaks savannah containing over 1000 trees. Other vegetation on the site includes coastal sage scrub and non-native grasses. Vegetation Due to its small size, vegetation within the Valley Oaks Savannah SEA is limited to a few community types. All plant species observed or recorded in previous documentation within the study area are indicated in the Comprehensive Floral & Faunal Compendium of the SEA User Guide. Sensitive plant species occurring or potentially occurring within the SEA are discussed in the Sensitive Biological Resources section of this document. Plant communities within the SEA were classified using standard methodology and terminology. Most of the communities discussed in this study correspond directly with those listed in Holland's Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California (1986 and 1992 update). Other communities are named based on dominant species within them and/or commonly used terminology. Descriptions and general locations of the each plant community present within the SEA including coastal sage scrub, valley oak woodland, non-native grassland, and disturbed are given below. Coastal sage scrub communities consist of drought -deciduous, low, soft -leaved shrubs and herbs on gentle to steep slopes under 3,000 feet in elevation. Several dominant species may occur within scrub communities and some areas may be overwhelmingly dominated by one or two species. Dominant species include California sagebrush, California buckwheat, chaparral mallow, purple sage, coast goldenbush, and California- astor. Valley oak savannah is an open woodland community dominated by the broad-leaved, winter -deciduous valley oak with scattered coast live oaks in some areas. The oak trees form an open savannah with an understory that is dominated by California buckwheat and non-native grasses. This community occupies a majority of the site. Grassland communities consist of low, herbaceous vegetation that are dominated by grasses but generally also harbor native forbs and bulbs as well as naturalized annual forbs. Topographic factors that contribute to grassland presence include gradual slopes or flat areas with deep, well developed soils in areas below the 3,000 foot elevation. Non-native grassland consists of dominant invasive annual grasses that are primarily of Mediterranean origin. Dominant species found within this community include slender wild oat, wild oat, ripgut brome, and foxtail chess along with scattered coastal sage scrub species. This community type occurs along the western portion of the north boundary of the SEA. Disturbed or barren areas either completely lack vegetation or are dominated by ruderal species. Ruderal vegetation typically found onsite include non-native grasses and a high proportion of weedy species, including tocalote, telegraph weed, tree tobacco, doveweed, black mustard, and thistle species. The primary disturbed area within this SEA is dirt roadways. Wildlife The relatively small size of the SEA and the limited variety of vegetation types is unlikely to support a large diversity of wildlife. However, acorns within the valley oak savannah provide a valuable food source for a variety of wildlife. Furthermore, the mature trees are an important source of nesting and roosting habitat for birds and other arboreal vertebrates. While some wildlife species are entirely dependent on a single vegetative community, the mosaic of vegetation communities within adjoining areas constitutes a functional ecosystem for a variety of wildlife species, both within the SEA and as part of the regional ecosystem. The analysis of invertebrates in this study is severely limited due to the lack of data. However, due to the undisturbed nature of the SEA, it is likely to support healthy populations of many invertebrate species. Amphibians may not be abundant due to the lack of water in the SEA, however, shaded areas within the woodland may be moist enough to allow for a few species to occupy the site. Reptilian diversity within the SEA is highest within patches of coastal sage scrub and may be abundant due the presence of alluvial wash habitat on adjacent property. The scrubland, woodland, and grassland habitats in and adjacent to the SEA provide foraging and cover habitat for year-round residents, seasonal residents, and migrating song birds. In addition, the SEA contains abundant raptor foraging, perching, and nesting habitat. Mammal populations within the SEA respond favorably to these habitats. Not unlike other taxonomic groups, mammal populations within the SEA are limited by acreage but are likely to utilize the area frequently. All wildlife species previously recorded, as well as those expected to occur, within the study area are indicated in the Comprehensive Floral & Faunal Compendium of the SEA User Guide. Sensitive wildlife species occurring or potentially occurring within the SEA are discussed below in the Sensitive Biological Resources section. Wildlife Movement Wildlife movement within the Valley Oaks Savannah SEA is limited to local movement of foraging animals. Although the SEA does not support regional corridors itself, adjacent lands to the west and northwest may be important linkages for wildlife movement to and from the Santa Susana Mountains and the Santa Clara River. The location of the SEA, therefore, may be important secondarily as a corridor buffer and/or adjacent foraging grounds. Sensitive Biological Resources Sensitive biological resources are habitats or individual species that have special recognition by federal, state, or local conservation agencies and organizations as endangered, threatened, rare, or otherwise principally due to the species' declining or limited population sizes, usually resulting from habitat loss. Watch lists of such resources are maintained by the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and special groups such as the California Native Plant Society (CNPS). The following sections indicate the habitats as well as plant and animal species present, or potentially present within the SEA, that have been afforded special recognition. Sensitive Plant Communities/Habitats The Valley Oaks Savannah SEA supports two habitat types considered sensitive by resource agencies, namely California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), because of either their scarcity or support of a number of state and federally listed endangered, threatened, and rare vascular plants, as well as several sensitive bird and reptile species. These communities are valley oak woodland and coastal sage scrub. These communities or closely related designations are considered highest -inventory priority communities by the CDFG, indicating that they are experiencing a decline throughout their range. Sensitive Species Sensitive species include those listed, or candidates for listing by USFWS, CDFG, and CNPS (particularly List 1A, 113, and 2). These sensitive species include, but are not limited to, San Diego coast horned lizard, sharp -shinned hawk, and Cooper's hawk. City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety SAFETY ELEMENT DRAFT MAY 2011 PART 1: BACKGROUND AND SAFETY ISSUES A. Purpose and Intent of the Safety Element Local governments are charged with the responsibility of protecting their citizens from unsafe conditions in the planning area, including natural and man-made hazards that could affect life or health, property values, economic or social welfare, and/or environmental quality. The Safety Element describes natural and man-made hazards that may affect existing and future residents, and provides guidelines for protecting public health and safety. It identifies present conditions and public concerns, and establishes policies and standards designed to minimize risks from hazards to acceptable levels. In addition, the Safety Element informs citizens about hazardous conditions in specific areas, and assists policy makers in making land use and development decisions. Although some degree of risk is inevitable because disasters cannot be predicted with certainty, unsafe conditions may be minimized through development of plans and policies to limit the public's exposure to hazards. For those cases in which disasters cannot be avoided, the Safety Element addresses emergency response services, and includes policies intended to minimize disruption and expedite recovery following disasters. B. Background Section 65302 of the California Government Code requires that the Safety Element address risks associated with ground rupture and shaking, seiche and dam failure, slope and soil instability, flooding, urban and wildland fires, evacuation routes, and any locally -identified issues, such as crime reduction, emergency preparedness, and hazardous materials incidents. The aim of the Safety Element is to reduce the potential risk of death, injuries, property damage, and economic and social dislocation resulting from these hazards, by providing a framework to guide local land use decisions related to zoning, subdivisions, and entitlement permits. Many of the issues covered in the Safety Element are also addressed in other General Plan elements. The Safety Element is consistent with the Land Use Element and Economic Development Element because hazards were identified and considered when establishing appropriate land use patterns on the Land Use Map, in order to limit public exposure to risk. The Element is consistent with the Circulation Element, because circulation policies require adequate evacuation routes and emergency access throughout the community. The Element is consistent with the Housing Element, because residential areas have been designated and are required to be designed to protect neighborhoods from hazardous conditions. The Element is consistent with the Conservation and Open Space Element, because areas identified as potentially subject to flooding, slope failure, seiche, or other hazard, have been designated as Open Space. In addition, conservation policies to protect watersheds and hillsides are also intended to limit risk from flooding and slope failures. The Safety Element is consistent with the Noise Element, because policies in both elements are intended to protect the public from unhealthful conditions. S-1 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan C. Seismic and Geological Hazards Earthauakes and Fault Zones Affectina the Plannina Area The planning area contains, and is in the vicinity of several known active and potentially active earthquake faults and fault zones. The term fault describes a fracture or zone of closely associated fractures where rocks on one side have been displaced with respect to those on the other side. A fault zone consists of a zone of related faults which may be braided or branching. New faults within the region continue to be discovered. Scientists have identified almost 100 faults in the Los Angeles area known to be capable of a magnitude 6.0 or greater earthquake. The January 17, 1994, magnitude 6.7 Northridge Earthquake, which produced severe ground motions causing 57 deaths and 9,253 injuries, left over 20,000 displaced from their homes. Scientists have indicated that such devastating shaking should be considered the norm near any large thrust fault earthquake in the region. Recent reports from the U.S. Geological Survey and the Southern California Earthquake Center conclude that the Los Angeles area could expect one earthquake every year of magnitude 5.0 or more, for the foreseeable future. A major earthquake in or near the Santa Clarita Valley may cause deaths and casualties, property damage, fires, hazardous materials spills, and other hazards. The effects could be aggravated by aftershocks and the secondary effects of fire, chemical accidents, water contamination, and possible dam failures. The time of day and season of the year could affect the number of casualties and property damage sustained from a major seismic event. In addition to impacts on human safety and property damage, a major earthquake could cause socio-economic impacts on Valley residents and businesses through loss of employment, interruption of the distribution of goods and services, and reductions in the local tax base. Disruption of transportation, telecommunications, and computer systems could further impact financial services and local government. A catastrophic earthquake could exceed the response capability of the City and County, requiring disaster relief support from other local governmental and private organizations, and from the State and federal governments. Earthquakes are classified by their magnitude and by their intensity. The intensity of seismic ground shaking is a function of several factors, including the magnitude of the quake, distance from the epicenter, and local geologic conditions. The largest or maximum credible earthquake a fault is capable of generating is used for community planning purposes. Earthquakes are typically defined by their magnitude as measured on the Richter Scale. Each whole number step in magnitude on the scale represents a tenfold increase in the amplitude of the waves on a seismogram, and about a 31-fold increase in energy released. For example, a 7.5-magnitude earthquake is 31 times more powerful than a 6.5-magnitude quake. The Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale is a measure of the damage potential of earthquakes, and contains 12 levels of intensity from I (tremor not felt) to XII (damage nearly total). For purposes of the discussion in this section, intensity is given using the Richter Scale, which is generally described in Table S-1. DRAFT May, 2011 S-2 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety Table S-1: Richter Scale of Magnitude for Earthquakes Richter Magnitude Earthquake Effects Less than 3.5 Generally not felt, but recorded 3.5-5.4 Often felt, but rarely causes damage Slight damage to well -designed buildings, can cause major 5.5-6.0 damage to poorly constructed buildings over small regions Can be destructive in areas up to about 100 kilometers 6.1-6.9 across, in areas where people live Major earthquake; can cause serious damage over large 7.0-7.9 areas Great earthquake; can cause serious damage in areas 8 or greater several hundred kilometers across Active faults are those that have caused soil and strata displacement within the last 11,000 years (the Holocene epoch). Potentially active faults show evidence of surface displacement during the last two million years (the Quaternary period). Exhibit S-1 shows the general location of faults which have experienced seismic activity within the last two million years and are considered to be active or potentially active, and which are located within or in the vicinity of the planning area. Faults capable of causing major damage within the planning area are listed below, with estimated potential magnitude indicated on the Richter scale. The San Andreas Fault Zone extends approximately 1,200 kilometers from the Gulf of California north to the Cape of Mendocino, where it continues northward along the ocean floor. The San Andreas Fault Zone marks the boundary between the Pacific and North American geotechnical plates; it is a right -lateral strike -slip fault that occurs along the line of contact between the two plates. The Fault Zone is located north of the City of Santa Clarita and extends through the communities of Frazier Park, Palmdale, Wrightwood, and San Bernardino. In 1857, a magnitude 8.0 earthquake occurred along a 255-mile long segment of this Fault, between Cholame and San Bernardino. This seismic event is the most significant historic earthquake in Southern California history. The length of the San Andreas Fault Zone and its active seismic history indicate that it has a high potential for large-scale movement in the near future, with an estimated Richter magnitude of 6.8 - 8.0. Along the Mojave segment, closest to the Santa Clarita Valley, the interval period between major ruptures is estimated to be 140 years. S-3 DRAFT May, 2011 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety The San Fernando Fault Zone is a thrust fault, 17 kilometers long, generally located approximately 20 miles southeast of Santa Clarita near the communities of San Fernando and Sunland. The Fault Zone's last major movement occurred on February 9, 1971, producing a quake with a Richter magnitude of 6.6 known as the San Fernando earthquake. The ground surface ruptures during this earthquake occurred on a little- known pre-existing fault in an area of low seismicity and previously unknown historic ground placement. The zone of displacement was approximately 12 miles long and had a maximum of three feet of vertical movement. The estimated interval between major ruptures along the San Fernando fault zone is estimated between 100 and 300 years, with a probable earthquake magnitude of 6.0 — 6.8. The San Gabriel Fault Zone traverses the planning area from northwest to southeast, extending 140 kilometers from the community of Frazier Park (west of Gorman) to Mount Baldy in San Bernardino County. Within the Santa Clarita Valley, the San Gabriel Fault Zone underlies the northerly portion of the community from Castaic and Saugus, extending east through Canyon Country to Sunland. Holocene activity along the Fault Zone has occurred in the segment between Saugus and Castaic. The length of this Fault, and its relationship with the San Andreas Fault system, contribute to its potential for future activity. The interval between major ruptures is unknown, although the western half is thought to be more active than the eastern portion. The Fault is a right - lateral strike -slip fault with an estimated earthquake magnitude of 7.2. The Holser Fault is approximately 20 kilometers in length extending from east of former Highway 99, westward to the vicinity of Piru Creek. Nearby communities include Castaic, Val Verde, and Piru. The surface trace of the Fault intersects the San Gabriel Fault east of Saugus. The most recent surface rupture has been identified as Quaternary period. Subsurface data in nearby oil fields demonstrate that the Holser Fault is a southward dipping, sharply -folded reverse fault. Subsurface exposures of this Fault in the Metropolitan Water District's Saugus Tunnel show at least 14 feet of terrace deposits offset by this Fault, which suggest that the Fault is potentially active. This Fault could generate a maximum estimated earthquake magnitude of 6.5. The Sierra Madre Fault is a 55-kilometer long fault zone generally located southeast of the planning area along the north side of the San Gabriel Mountains, extending from Sunland to Glendora. The Sierra Madre Fault is a reverse fault that dips to the north. The zone of faulting is similar to, and may lie within, the same fault system as the San Fernando Fault Zone, which moved in 1971. Movement along faults in this zone has resulted in the uplift of the San Gabriel Mountains. Geologic evidence indicates that the Sierra Madre Fault Zone has been active in the Holocene epoch. The interval between major ruptures is estimated at several thousand years, and the Fault Zone has an estimated earthquake magnitude of 6.0 — 7.0. The Santa Susana Fault is a thrust fault, dipping to the north. The Fault is located south of the intersection of Interstate 5 and State Route 14, and extends 38 kilometers from Simi Valley to the San Fernando Valley. Nearby communities include Sylmar and San Fernando. This Fault has been classified as potentially active by geologists based on evidence suggesting that movement has occurred within the past two million years (Quaternary period). In its western portions, there is evidence that the fault plane has been folded and would, therefore, probably not have renewed movement. The interval between major ruptures is unknown. Portions of the Fault Zone have an estimated earthquake magnitude of 6.5 — 7.3. S-5 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan The Oak Ridge Fault is a thrust fault extending 90 kilometers. The Fault is located west of the City and parallels the Santa Clara River and State Route 126 from Piru to the coast. Movement along the portion of the fault between Santa Paula and Ventura has been identified in the Holocene period. At its eastern end, the Oak Ridge thrust becomes more difficult to trace and appears to be overthrust by the Santa Susana Fault. The magnitude 6.7 Northridge earthquake in 1994 is thought to have occurred along the eastern edge of the Oak Ridge Fault. The interval between major ruptures is unknown, and the maximum earthquake magnitude is estimated to be 6.5 — 7.5. The Clearwater Fault is an east/west trending reverse fault, approximately 32 kilometers in length. The Fault is located approximately 10 miles northeast of the Castaic community and runs through Lake Hughes and Leona Valley, where it merges with the San Andreas Fault Zone. Evidence of movement along this Fault has been identified in the Late Quaternary period. Although an estimate of the amount and type of displacement on the Clearwater Fault is difficult to determine, the Fault is considered to be potentially active. The Soledad Fault is a left -lateral normal fault 20 kilometers in length, located near the communities of Acton and Soledad Canyon. The Fault is considered to be active, with surface rupture during the Quaternary period. The Northridge Hills Fault crosses the San Fernando Valley through Northridge and Chatsworth, disappearing under thick alluvium in the east central valley. This Fault is believed either to be more than one fault plane or a splinter of faults that align and possibly blend with the fault complex in the Santa Susanna Pass, which extends west into Simi Valley. Near Northridge in the San Fernando Valley, the Northridge Hills Fault is buried beneath the alluvium, and the Fault's location is interpreted from oil industry data and from topographic patterns. The Fault is a reverse fault, 25 kilometers in length. This portion of the Fault has had movement during the late Quaternary period. Despite its name, it is not the fault responsible for the Northridge Earthquake (which occurred along the Oak Ridge Fault). The San Francisquito Fault is a subsidiary fault of the San Andreas Fault Zone. Although there is no evidence of recent activity, it has experienced up to seven meters of vertical displacement in the past. Originating just north of the Bouquet Reservoir, it extends under the dam and travels southwest to San Francisquito Canyon. • The Pelona Fault, seven kilometers in length, is located near the community of Sleepy Valley and has ruptured in the Late Quaternary period. In addition to seismic impacts from these faults, there is a potential for ground shaking from blind thrust faults, which are low angle detachment faults that do not reach the ground surface. Recent examples of blind thrust fault earthquakes include the 1994 Northridge (magnitude 6.7), 1983 Coalinga (magnitude 6.5), and 1987 Whittier Narrows (magnitude 5.9) events. Much of the Los Angeles area is underlain by blind thrust faults, typically at a depth of six to 10 miles below ground surface. These faults have the capacity to produce earthquakes of a magnitude up to 7.5. DRAFT May, 2011 S-6 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety The Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act, adopted by the State of California in 1972, requires identification of known fault hazard areas on a map and prohibits construction of specified building types within these fault hazard areas. The primary purpose of the Act is to prevent the construction of buildings used for human occupancy on the surface trace of active faults. Pursuant to this law, the State Geologist has established Special Studies Zones around active faults, as depicted on maps distributed to all cities and counties. Local agencies are required to regulate development within these Special Studies Zones, and may be more restrictive than the State law based upon local conditions. Generally, the Act requires that structures for human occupancy must be set back 50 feet from the fault trace. Areas within the Santa Clarita Valley that are designated as Alquist-Priolo Special Studies Zones are shown on Exhibit S-1. The planning area has experienced shaking from several earthquakes recorded back to 1855, as listed on Table S-2. Prior to that date the historic record is incomplete. Epicenters of historic earthquakes affecting the planning area are shown on Exhibit S-2. One of the largest occurred in 1857 in the area of Fort Tejon. Estimated at a magnitude of 8.0, this earthquake resulted in a surface rupture scar of about 220 miles in length along the San Andreas Fault, and shaking was reported from Los Angeles to San Francisco. The strongest recent seismic event was the January 1994 Northridge earthquake. The earthquake epicenter was located approximately 13 miles southwest of the Santa Clarita Valley in the Northridge community of Los Angeles County. Estimated damages from the quake included $650 million to residential structures, $41 million to businesses, and over $20 million to public infrastructure. Although no deaths were recorded in the Santa Clarita Valley from the earthquake, the event resulted in damage to water distribution and filtration systems, natural gas service, electrical service, and roads throughout the planning area. Damage included the collapse of a freeway bridge at the Interstate 5/State Route 14 interchange, resulting in traffic and circulation impacts to the planning area for an extended period of time. Other damage included a crude oil release from a pipeline rupture and the dislocation of many mobile homes from their foundations. The City, County, and many other agencies cooperated in disaster recovery efforts, quickly re-establishing essential services and rebuilding critical facilities. S-7 DRAFT May, 2011 a A 0 ' . r-a s F J/� C•J d7 �i�• � � ° C-.- . l7 ° S3 tit �:1 ° • �� • q q , a go 1-4�� •r �: r b n V N w•�••••�axrkk�,rw4w�vu�,uY.iNtsYrvlsa:�IUNtL L Q .Y City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety Table S-2 Historic Earthquakes Affecting the Santa Clarita Valley Planning Area 1855-1999 Year Location Richter Magnitude 1855 Los Angeles, Los Angeles County Est. 6.0 1857 Fort Tejon, Kern County Est. 8.0 1883 Ventura -Kern County border Est. 6.0 1893 San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles County Est. 5.5 - 5.9 1916 Near Lebec, Kern County 5.2 1925 Santa Barbara Channel, Santa Barbara County 6.3 1933 Huntington Beach, Orange County 6.3 1941 Santa Barbara Channel, Santa Barbara County 5.9 1946 Northeastern Kern County 6.3 1947 Central San Bernardino County 6.2 1948 Near Desert Hot Springs, Riverside County 6.5 1952 White Wolf Fault, Kern County 7.5 1971 San Fernando (Sylmar), Los Angeles County 6.7 1987 Whittier Narrows, Los Angeles County 5.9 1988 Pasadena, Los Angeles County 5.0 1991 Sierra Madre, Los Angeles County 5.8 1994 Northridge, Los Angeles County 6.7 1999 Hector Mine, San Bernardino County 7.1 Impacts of Earthquakes Ground shaking is the most significant earthquake action in terms of potential structural damage and loss of life. Ground shaking is the movement of the earth's surface in response to a seismic event. The intensity of the ground shaking and the resultant damages are determined by the magnitude of the earthquake, distance from the epicenter, and characteristics of surface geology. This hazard is the primary cause of collapsed buildings and other structures. The significance of an earthquake's ground shaking action is directly related to the density and type of buildings and the number of people exposed to its effect. Surface rupture or displacement is the break in the ground's surface and associated deformation resulting from the movement of a fault. Surface rupture occurs along the fault trace, where the fault breaks the ground surface during a seismic event. Buildings constructed on or adjacent to a fault trace are typically severely damaged from fault rupture in the event of a major fault displacement during an earthquake. As this hazard cannot be prevented, known faults are identified and mapped so as to prevent or restrict new construction of structures within fault hazard areas. Liquefaction refers to a process by which water -saturated granular soils transform from a solid to a liquid state during strong ground shaking. Liquefaction usually occurs during or shortly after a large earthquake. The movement of saturated soils during seismic events from ground shaking can result in soil instability and possible structural damage. In effect, the liquefaction soil strata behave as a heavy fluid. Buried tanks may float to the surface, and structures above the liquefaction strata may sink. Pipelines passing through liquefaction materials typically sustain a relatively large number of breaks in an earthquake. S-9 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan Liquefaction has been observed to occur in soft, poorly graded granular materials (such as loose sands) where the water table is high. Areas in the Santa Clarita Valley underlain by unconsolidated alluvium, such as along the Santa Clara River and tributary washes, may be prone to liquefaction. Dam inundation is another potential hazard from seismic shaking. Within the Santa Clarita Valley, dams are located at the Castaic Reservoir and the Bouquet Reservoir. If the Castaic Reservoir Dam were to rupture from a seismic event, potential flooding could occur in Castaic, Val Verde, and Valencia. Failure of the two dams at the Bouquet Reservoir could result in flooding downstream in Saugus and Valencia. These potential flood hazards are further discussed in Section D (Flood Hazards). A seiche is an earthquake -produced wave in a lake or reservoir. Seiches can be triggered by ground motion from distant earthquakes or from ground displacement beneath the water body. In reservoirs, seiches can generate short-term flooding of downstream areas. Within the planning area, the Bouquet and Castaic Reservoirs may be subject to seiches due to earthquake activity. In addition to these impacts, a City emergency plan has identified the following potential damage to vital public services, systems, and facilities which may result from a catastrophic earthquake: • Bed loss in hospitals • Disruption or interruption of communications systems • Damage to flood control channels and pumping stations • Damage to power plants and interruption of the power grid • Fires due to downed power lines and broken gas lines, exacerbated by loss of water pressure and potential damage to fire stations and equipment • Damage to freeway systems and bridges, and blocking of surface streets • Damage to natural gas facilities, including major transmission lines and individual service connections • Petroleum pipeline breakage and fuel spills • Interruption of rail service due to possible bridge and track damage • Interruption of sanitary sewage treatment • Interruption of water import through the State Water Project system Seismic Design Requirements In order to limit structural damage from earthquakes, seismic design codes have undergone substantial revision in recent years. Earthquake safety standards for new construction became widely adopted in local building codes in Southern California following the 1933 Long Beach Earthquake, and have been updated in various versions of the California Building Code since that date. The 1994 Northridge Earthquake resulted in significant changes to building codes to ensure that buildings are designed and constructed to resist the lateral force of an earthquake and repeated aftershocks. Required construction techniques to ensure building stability include adequate nailing, anchorage, foundation, shear walls, and welds for steel -frame buildings. DRAFT May, 2011 S-10 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety Both the City and County enforce structural requirements of the Building Code. The Alquist- Priolo Special Studies Zones and sound engineering and geotechnical practices are instrumental in evaluating the structural stability of proposed new development. Policies in the Safety Element are included to ensure that proposals for new development in the planning area are reviewed to ensure protection of lives and property from seismic hazards, through analysis of existing conditions and requirements for safe building practices. I anrlclirlac Landslides occur when the underlying geological support on a hillside can no longer maintain the load of material above it, causing a slope failure. The term landslide also commonly refers to a falling, sliding, or flowing mass of soil, rocks, water, and debris which may include mudslides and debris flows. Landslides generated by the El Nino storms of 1998 and 1992 illustrate the hazards to life and property posed by debris flows and landslides. The size of a landslide can vary from minor rock falls to large hillside slumps. Deep-seated landslides are caused by the infiltration of water from rain or other origin into unstable material. Fast-moving debris flows are triggered by intense rains that over - saturate pockets of soil on hillsides. Landslides may result from either natural conditions or human activity. They are often associated with earthquakes although there are other factors that may influence their occurrence, including improper grading, soil moisture and composition, and subsurface geology. Soils with high clay content or located on shale are susceptible to landslides, especially when saturated from heavy rains or excessive landscape irrigation. Much of the planning area consists of mountainous or hilly terrain, in which conditions for unstable soils and landslides may be present. The California Division of Mines and Geology has prepared Seismic Hazard Zone Maps of the Newhall, Mint Canyon, Oat Mountain, and San Fernando 7.5-minute quadrangles. These four quadrangles include land within the City limits. The maps identify areas of liquefaction hazard and earthquake -induced landslide hazard. Exhibit S-3 shows areas prone to earthquake - induced landslides and liquefaction, based on these maps. Subsidence Subsidence is the gradual, local settling or sinking of the earth's surface with little or no horizontal motion. Subsidence usually occurs as a result of the extraction of subsurface gas, oil, or water, or from hydro -compaction. It is not the result of a landslide or slope failure. Subsidence typically occurs over a long period of time and can result in structural impacts in developed areas, such as cracked pavement and building foundations, and dislocated wells, pipelines, and water drains. No large-scale problems with ground subsidence have been reported in the planning area. Both the City and the County have adopted ordinances requiring soil and geotechnical investigations for grading or new construction in areas with a potential for landslide or subsidence activity, in order to mitigate potential hazards from soil instability. S-11 DRAFT May, 2011 0 cu City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety D. Flood Hazards Surface Water Drainaae Patterns The term flooding refers to a rise in the level of a body of water or the rapid accumulation of runoff resulting in the temporary inundation of land that is usually dry. Flooding can be caused by rivers and streams overflowing their banks due to heavy rains. Flood hazards in the planning area are related to rainfall intensity and duration, regional topography, type and extent of vegetation cover, amount of impermeable surface, and available drainage facilities. The size, or magnitude, of a flood is described by a term called a "recurrence interval." By studying a long period of flow records for a stream, hydrologists estimate the size of a flood that would have a likelihood of occurring during various intervals. For example, a five-year flood event would occur, on the average, once every five years (and would have a 20 percent chance of occurring in any one year). Although a 100-year flood event is expected to happen only once in a century, there is a one percent chance that a flood of that size could happen during any year. The magnitude of flood events could be altered if changes are made to a drainage basin, such as by diversion of flow or increased flows generated by additional impervious surface area. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has mapped most of the flood risk areas within the United States as part of the National Flood Insurance Program. Most communities with a one percent chance of a flood occurring in any given year have the floodplains depicted on a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). Exhibit S-4 depicts the 100-year flood event boundaries for the major watercourses in the planning area, which are generally located within and directly adjacent to the Santa Clara River and its tributaries. The Santa Clarita Valley contains many natural streams and creeks that function as storm drain channels, conveying surface water runoff into the Santa Clara River. From its headwaters in the San Gabriel Mountains to its mouth at the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Clara River drains a watershed of 1,643 square miles, approximately 80 miles in length and about 25 miles in width. Ninety percent of the watershed consists of mountainous terrain; the remaining portion is a mix of valley floor, floodplain, and coastal plain. Within the headwater areas of the Santa Clarita Valley, discharge during rainfall events tends to be rapid due to the steep terrain. High intensity rainfalls, in combination with alluvial soils, sparse vegetation, erosion, and steep gradients, can result in significant debris -laden flash floods. The Santa Clara River and its tributary streams play a major part in moving the large volume of runoff that is generated from the valley and surrounding foothills and mountains. The drainage system, including natural streams as well as constructed storm drain infrastructure within City and County areas, is adequate to handle normal precipitation in the region (15-19 inches per year). With the rapid urbanization of the Valley since 1960, stormwater volumes have increased due to increased impervious surface area from parking lots, rooftops, and streets. Flood control facilities have been constructed to mitigate the impacts of development on drainage patterns, including flood control channels, debris basins, and runoff control systems. Throughout the central portion of the planning area, streams have been channelized into soft bottom channels with concrete sides to allow for development in the floodplain of the Santa Clara River. S-13 DRAFT May, 2011 kv a Tl Ig off 0 C) City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety Because the channelization of stormwater can increase velocity and flows, much of the Santa Clara River has remained unchannelized and in a natural condition. Where flood control improvements have been required, the City has used buried bank stabilization as the preferred method of protecting adjacent development from flood hazards. Buried bank stabilization has been used along various reaches of the Santa Clara River, the South Fork of the Santa Clara River, and San Francisquito Creek. Stabilizing banks from erosion by use of buried reinforcement structures provides opportunities to maintain stormwater flows while protecting habitat along the river banks, providing aesthetic views of the watercourse, and creating opportunities to integrate channel improvements with trail systems. The Los Angeles County Flood Control District (LAFCD) has constructed major flood control facilities in the planning area, including the concrete -lined portions of the Santa Clara River and its tributaries. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works operates and maintains major drainage channels, storm drains, sediment basins, and streambed stabilization structures. Both the City and County are responsible for maintaining surface water quality through street sweeping, catch basin clearing, public education, and other measures required by the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits issued by the Regional Water Quality Control Board. As described in the Conservation and Open Space Element, both the City and County have acted to protect the Santa Clara River floodplain from development in order to maintain the river's natural character and to protect future development from flood hazards. The City's 1996 Santa Clara River Enhancement and Management Plan recommended an acquisition program for land adjacent to the river for open space, recreational, and flood protection uses, and the City has since acquired hundreds of acres of land along the river for these purposes. Within the County's adopted Newhall Ranch Specific Plan, land adjacent to the River was set aside for open space, floodplain and habitat protection; flood protection in this area will be achieved through bank stabilization, detention basins combined with habitat areas, rip rap, and soft - bottom channels designed to appear natural. Localized flooding has been experienced intermittently in some areas of the Valley due to local drainage conditions. During heavy rains over the last few years some areas of Castaic, Newhall, Friendly Valley, and Bouquet Canyon have experienced mudflows or flooding. Local flooding can be exacerbated by erosion and mudslides when heavy rains occur after wildfires. Two areas of the City known to experience intermittent flooding are portions of Placerita Canyon, Sand Canyon, and Newhall Creek. During storm events, transmission of storm flows within the street right-of-way may cause localized flooding in these areas, rendering some roads impassable. Throughout most areas of the City, curbs and gutters have been designed to contain and carry storm flows into drainage structures; in these areas, stormwater water within the street that is contained by the curbs is an indication that the combined roadway -drainage system is functioning correctly. S-15 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan The City has no plans to construct any new major drainage facility improvements. Engineering studies show that the current City system has adequate capacity to handle projected storm flows, provided it is properly maintained. In County areas, major drainage improvements will be constructed by developers as part of the infrastructure requirements for new master -planned communities. Portions of Sierra Highway north of the Santa Clara River are subject to flooding from Mint Canyon, and the lack of adequate flood control facilities in this area represents the last major constraint to development along this arterial corridor in Canyon Country. It is expected that new development along Sierra Highway will generate requirements for flood control improvements in this area. Within both jurisdictions, localized, short-term flooding resulting from excessive rainfall, soil erosion resulting from wildland fires, or inadequate local drainage infrastructure will be addressed by providing or requiring local improvements as needed. As discussed in the Conservation and Open Space Element, one way to maximize use of existing flood control and drainage facilities is to limit the use of impermeable surface area on development sites. Design techniques available to increase infiltration and decrease runoff on development sites include use of permeable paving materials, eliminating curbs that channel stormwater away from natural or landscaped areas, use of green roofs, and allowing greater building height to limit building footprints and maximize pervious site area. These and other similar techniques, collectively known as Low Impact Development (LID), were designed to enhance water quality by limiting soil erosion, sedimentation, and pollution from pavement into streams and rivers. LID principles also reduce impacts to drainage and flood control systems from increased flows generated by new development, and provide for recharge of local groundwater aquifers. Although flood protection devices and structures are necessary in some areas to preserve public safety, they will be combined with other available methods of reducing flooding by promoting infiltration of stormwater at the source through LID design principles. Flood Control Regulations Both the City and the County have adopted floodplain management ordinances to implement the National Flood Insurance Program and other federal requirements established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. In August 2008, the City adopted the Floodplain Management Ordinance (Chapter 10.06 of the Municipal Code). The Floodplain Management Ordinance is based on the California Model Floodplain Management Ordinance issued by the California Department of Water Resources who administers the National Floodplain Insurance Program (NFIP) for FEMA. The City's Floodplain Management Ordinance establishes floodway maps, governs land uses and construction of structures within floodplains, and establishes water surface elevations. Floodplains are divided into two types of hazard areas: 1) the "floodway" which is the portion of the stream channel that carries deep, fast-moving water (usually defined as the area needed to contain a 100-year storm flow); and 2) the "flood fringe" area, the remainder of the floodplain outside of the floodway, which is subject to inundation from shallow, slow -moving water. Drainage requirements are also addressed in other portions of the Unified Development Code (UDC) and in the building code, in order to ensure that stormwater flows are directed away from buildings into drainage devices to prevent flooding. DRAFT May, 2011 S-16 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety Dam Failure Dam failure can result from natural or man-made causes, including earthquakes, erosion, improper siting or design, rapidly -rising flood waters, or structural flaws. Dam failure may cause loss of life, damage to property, and displacement of persons residing in the inundation path. Damage to electric generating facilities and transmission lines could also impact life support systems in communities outside of the immediate inundation area. Within the Santa Clarita Valley, the two major reservoirs which could have a significant impact on the Santa Clarita Valley in the event of a dam failure are located in Bouquet Canyon and Castaic. These facilities, along with potential inundation areas, are shown on Exhibit S-3. The Bouquet Canyon Reservoir is located in the central portion of the planning area. The reservoir has two earth -filled dams, one on the west side overlooking Cherry Canyon, and one on the south side above Bouquet Canyon. Both these reservoirs are owned and operated by the City of Los Angeles. The Bouquet Reservoir has a maximum capacity of 36,505 acre feet of water and 7.6 miles of shoreline. Because of its two dams, two potential inundation areas have been identified in the event of a dam failure. On the Cherry Canyon side, the water would flow west for approximately two miles through the Canyon into San Francisquito Canyon, and then south for approximately 11 miles into the Santa Clara River. The Bouquet Creek dam would drain south through Bouquet Canyon for 17 miles, into the Santa Clara River. The Castaic Dam is located on Lake Hughes Road, one mile northeast of Interstate 5, just north of the community of Castaic. This dam is operated by the State of California Resources Agency, Department of Water Resources. Castaic Dam is an earth -filled dam located at the confluence of Castaic and Elizabeth Lake Creeks. The dam facing is approximately one mile across with a maximum capacity of 350,000 acre-feet of water, covering a surface area of 2,600 acres with 34 miles of shoreline. Should a breach in the dam occur, the water will flow south in Castaic Creek for approximately five miles to the Santa Clara River. Failure of these dams during a catastrophic event, such as a severe earthquake, is considered unlikely, due to their type of construction. However, local safety plans have considered the possibility of dam failure and have outlined a procedure for response and recovery from this type of hazard, including identification of inundation areas and evacuation routes. E. Fire Hazard Fire Protection Services As part of the Consolidated Fire Protection District, the entire planning area receives urban and wildland fire protection services from the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Mutual aid agreements are maintained with several local, State, and federal agencies. The Fire Department also provides fire prevention services, emergency medical services, hazardous materials services, and urban search and rescue services. S-17 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan In 2007, the Fire Department stations in the Santa Clarita Valley responded to 15,432 calls within the planning area, of which 594 were fire related and 10,093 were emergency medical services. The Fire Department also responded to 10 hazardous materials calls, including reports of hazardous conditions. The Fire Department has adopted a goal of responding to calls in urban areas within five minutes, in suburban areas within eight minutes, and in rural areas within 12 minutes. However, actual response times vary due to distances and road conditions. The 2007 median response times throughout the planning area were five minutes within the City limits, and less than eight minutes within unincorporated County areas. As of December, 2006 there were 10 fire stations in the planning area. Two additional stations, #75 in Chatsworth and #77 in Gorman, although outside the planning area, were able to provide support as needed and will continue to do so. In 2006, the Fire Department retained a consulting firm to analyze service levels and needs within its service area. The study concluded that there were insufficient fire stations in the Santa Clarita Valley to maintain desired service levels, and that the coverage areas were too large for the existing stations to meet target response times. Based on projected needs, the Fire Department planned construction of approximately 15 new stations in the Santa Clarita Valley by 2016. Since that time, the Fire Department has undertaken construction of Station #108 on Rock Canyon Drive, and has established temporary Stations #156 on Copperhill Drive, #132 on Sand Canyon Road, and #104 on Golden Valley Road. As of the adoption date of this plan there were 13 stations in the planning area. Two additional stations serve portions of the planning area, although they are outside the boundaries; these are Station #77 in Gorman and Station #75 in Chatsworth. Existing and planned fire stations are shown on Exhibit S-5. Some fire stations in the Valley are geared toward providing urban fire protection services, while others in outlying areas respond to brush fires along the urban-wildland interface. According to Los Angeles County Fire Chief P. Michael Freeman, "The whole objective of firefighting is to try to catch the fire when it's small. The closer the station is to the location of the fire, the quicker we can get there and the better chance we'll have to keep it small." In 2007, the Fire Department opened two temporary fire stations (No. 132 on Sand Canyon Road in Stetson Ranch, and No. 156 on Copper Hill Drive in Saugus) to provide service until permanent stations are completed. The County also moved forward with plans and environmental documents to build two additional stations+. The County has adopted fire impact fees within the planning area to fund new construction of fire stations and purchase of capital fire equipment. These fees are collected from developers who are required to mitigate potential health and safety impacts from fire danger by funding construction of a new fire station or purchase of equipment. Funding is also provided by the County and the City through property tax revenue. Additionally, voters approved a special tax in 1997 to pay for essential fire suppression and emergency medical services. In 2007, the Fire Department received funding from Los Angeles County to purchase new fire engines as part of the County's plan to phase out older fire equipment. Fire engines typically last about 15 years before they need to be replaced. Normally one or two engines are maintained within each fire station in the County. Other equipment is also planned for replacement to maintain effective operational capacity. DRAFT May, 2011 S-18 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety Fire prevention activities are headed by the County Fire Marshall, and include preparation of codes, ordinances and standards; plan checking for fire safety, sprinkler systems and fire alarms; fire inspections of structures; brush clearance compliance programs; fuel modification; education; fire investigation; establishing standards for access and fire flow in new subdivisions; and environmental review, among other activities. The Fire Department's Emergency Medical Services unit was established in 1969 to provide paramedics to respond to medical calls and implement advance life support. The Urban Search and Rescue service provides trained responders to rescue in confined spaces, by helicopter, by diving, and in other special circumstances. Hazardous material programs provided by the Fire Department are discussed in Section G of this element. The Peak Load Water Supply is the supply of water available to meet both domestic water and fire fighting needs during the particular season and time of day when domestic water demand on a water system is at its peak. Both the City and the County review new development plans to ensure that adequate water supply is available to provide fire flow as well as daily water supply, prior to issuance of building permits. The City, Fire Department and various other County agencies are collaborating on a Joint Task Force to examine the ongoing needs of the Santa Clarita Valley for fire station development. This examination includes funding for construction and personnel, and ways to assure appropriate fire staffing to meet anticipated growth, with the goal of continuing to provide the highest level of public safety services to the Santa Clarita Valley residents. S-19 DRAFT May, 2011 0 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety Wildland Fire Protection Wildland fire refers to a fire that occurs in a suburban or rural area that contains uncultivated lands, timber, range, watershed, brush, or grasslands, including areas in which there is a mingling of developed and undeveloped lands. For thousands of years, fires have been a natural part of the Southern California ecosystem. However, as urban development has spread throughout hillside areas of the region, wildland fires have come to represent a significant hazard to life and property. The classic "wildland/urban interface" exists where well-defined urban and suburban development presses up against open expanses of wildland areas. Certain conditions must be present for significant interface fires to occur, including hot, dry, windy weather; the inability of fire protection forces to contain or suppress the fire; the occurrence of multiple fires that overwhelm committed resources; and a large fuel load (dense vegetation). Once such a fire has started, several conditions influence its behavior, including fuel load, topography, weather, drought, and development patterns. Southern California has two distinct areas of risk for wildland fires: 1) the foothills and lower mountain areas, typically covered with scrub brush or chaparral; and 2) the higher elevations of mountains, covered with heavily forested terrain. Historical records kept by the U.S. Department of Forestry indicate that wildland fires occur regularly within the planning area, with large fires occurring approximately every 10 years. Fire danger rises based on the age and amount of vegetation; therefore, fire incidents tend to be cyclical in an area as vegetation intensity increases with age, and dead vegetation accumulates. The fall of 2003 was the most destructive wildfire season in California history. In a 10-day period, 12 separate fires raged across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Ventura Counties, burning almost 750,000 acres and resulting in the loss of 22 lives and 4,812 homes. The magnitude of the 2003 fires resulted from a combination of factors, including extended drought followed by thunderstorms, lightning strikes and windy conditions; an infestation of bark beetles that killed thousands of mature trees; and the practice of suppressing wildfires over the last century that has led to buildup of brush and highly flammable fuel loads. Wildland fires can require evacuation of portions of the population, revised traffic patterns to accommodate emergency response vehicle operations, and restrictions on water usage during the emergency. Health hazards may exist for elderly or disabled persons who cannot evacuate or succumb to smoke and heat. The loss of utilities, and increased demand on medical services, can also be anticipated. The Santa Clarita Valley planning area is susceptible to wildland fires because of its hilly terrain, dry weather conditions, and native vegetation. Steep slopes allow for the quick spread of flames during fires, and pose difficulty for fire suppression due to access problems for firefighting equipment. Late summer and fall months are critical times of the year when wildland fires typically occur, when the Santa Ana winds deliver hot, dry desert air into the region. Highly flammable plant communities consisting of variable mixtures of woody shrubs and herbaceous species, such as chaparral and sage vegetation, allow fires to spread easily on hillsides and in canyons. According to the Fire Department, 80 to 90 percent of the planning area is located in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, which is the highest classification for areas subject to wildfires. The potential wildland fire hazard areas within the planning area are shown on Exhibit S-6. S-21 DRAFT May, 2011 04 LL City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety Areas subject to wildland fire danger include portions of Newhall and Canyon Country, Sand Canyon, Pico Canyon, Placerita Canyon, Hasley Canyon, White's Canyon, Bouquet Canyon, and all areas along the interface between urban development and natural vegetation in hillside areas. Fire hazards increase with any drought periods, and are highest for structures at the fringe of forested or wildland areas. In addition to the damage caused directly by a foothill fire, further damage may be caused by resulting mudslides during subsequent rains. In October, 2007, wildfires again swept through Southern California, including the Santa Clarita Valley. Emergency response procedures put into place after the 2003 fires reduced losses through better notification and evacuation procedures, and through quick action by the State and Federal governments to declare an emergency and provide suppression support. Within the Santa Clarita Valley the 2007 fires included the Buckweed Fire, which burned 38,356 acres; the Magic Fire, which burned 1,750 acres; and the Newhall Fire, which burned 40 acres. The Ranch Fire, which burned 55,756 acres, started near Castaic and burned primarily wildland areas. To respond to these fires, the City set up a telephone bank that handled thousands of phone calls, and transformed Central Park into a Fire Department base camp for firefighters. Local Assistance Centers were set up to help residents file FEMA claims, and the nonprofit Santa Clarita Valley Disaster Coalition solicited and disbursed funds for fire victim relief. Twenty-one homes were destroyed and 15 homes damaged by the Buckweed Fire, but no lives were lost. Local fire response resources include those of the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the Fire Services mutual aid system, the California Division of Forestry, and the United States Forest Service. The combination of forces applied will depend upon the severity of the fire, other fires in progress, and the availability of resources. Suppression efforts can involve fire equipment, heavy construction equipment, and air fire bombardment aircraft, in addition to hand crews. The Fire Department operates 10 fire suppression camps assigned to the Air and Wildland Division, of which four camps employ paid personnel and six camps are staffed with inmate crews from detention facilities. Wildland fire crews are used for fire protection, prevention, and suppression activities. They control wildland fires by cutting a control line around the perimeter of a fire, coordinating activities of bulldozers, and use of water -dropping helicopters and fixed wing aircraft, as deemed appropriate. The Fire Department also oversees vegetation management for fuel reduction, and provides response to other emergency incidents as required. Under a mutual aid agreement covering federal forest lands, responsibility for non -structure fires within the National Forest belongs to the United States Forest Service (USFS), while the Fire Department has the responsibility for suppressing structure fires. In practice, each agency cooperates in fighting both wildland and structural fires during actual fire emergencies. There are USFS fire stations and facilities located within the planning area. S-23 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan In addition to suppression activities, the Fire Department has adopted programs directed at wildland fire prevention, including adoption of the State Fire Code standards for new development in hazardous fire areas. Fire prevention requirements include provision of access roads, adequate road width, and clearance of brush around structures located in hillside areas. In addition, proof of adequate water supply for fire flow is required within a designated distance for new construction in fire hazard areas. The Fire Department also provides fire safety training to County residents and youth education programs on fire safety and prevention. The City teams with the County to provide training to residents on fire prevention and response, through the Community Emergency Response Training (CERT) program, and other educational programs described in Section H of this element (Emergency Preparedness and Response). Residents with homes located in urban/wildland interface areas must bear some of the responsibility for preventing the spread of wildland fires. Houses surrounded by brushy growth rather than cleared space allow for greater continuity of fuel and increase the fire's ability to spread. Homeowners should also consider whether their home is located near a fire station, has adequate access for fire suppression vehicles, has adequate water supply for fire flow, is located away from slopes or canyons which act to draw fires upward, and is constructed with fire-resistant materials and design features, such as non-combustible roofing and boxed eaves. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has issued guidelines for fuel reduction and other fire safety measures in urban/wildland interface areas.' These guidelines were issued in response to recent changes to Public Resources Code Section 4291 that increased the defensible space clearance requirement from 30 feet to 100 feet around structures. For fire protection purposes, "defensible space" means the area within the perimeter of a parcel where basic wildfire protection practices are implemented. This area is characterized by adequate emergency vehicle access, emergency water reserves, street names and building identification, and fuel modification measures. Fuel reduction through vegetation management around homes is the key to saving homes in hillside areas. The City, County and Fire Department will continue to provide public education programs about fire prevention strategies for residents in interface areas. After a fire has been suppressed in a wildland area, the work of restoration begins. The Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Team is a group of specialists in fields such as hydrology, soil sciences and wildlife management who evaluate damage to habitat areas from fires, and from firebreaks which may have been constructed to contain fires by cutting and clearing vegetation with earthmovers. In order to prevent erosion and re-establish vegetation consistent with native plant communities, appropriate planting and other management techniques must occur as soon as possible after a fire is extinguished. ' California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, General Guidelines to Implement Performance Based Defensible Space Regulations under PRC 4291, 2005. DRAFT May, 2011 S-24 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety F. Severe Weather Conditions Severe weather threats for Santa Clarita Valley residents were identified in the City's Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan as including extreme heat and high -velocity winds. Extreme heat results in excessive demands on the regional power grid to supply electricity for air conditioners. Long periods of extreme summer heat can affect the local water table levels and soil quality, increasing the risk of flash floods if rain occurs. In addition, extreme heat for extended periods increases the risk of wildland fires and exacerbates formation of ozone, resulting in impaired air quality. Exposure by humans to excessive heat can result in heat exhaustion or heatstroke; each year, about 175 Americans die as a result of summer heat waves. The planning area is also subject to strong winds, with hot dry Santa Ana winds often reaching a velocity of 60 miles per hour between the months of October and March. These winds may overturn trees, create unsafe driving conditions for motorists, and damage utility lines. They also create ideal conditions for the origin and spread of wildfires, by drying out vegetation and spreading sparks. On average, high wind events occur from 5 to 10 times per year in the planning area. The Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan addressed these potential safety hazards with goals focused on public education regarding precautions against exposure to high heat and poor air quality; tree trimming programs to address falling limbs and trunks during high winds; participation in regional notification programs regarding power black -outs; debris management after windstorms; and undergrounding of utility lines. G. Hazardous Materials Hazardous materials include any substance or combination of substances which, because of quantity, concentration, or characteristics, may cause or significantly contribute to an increase in death or serious injury, or pose substantial hazards to humans and/or the environment. These materials may include pesticides, herbicides, toxic metals and chemicals, liquefied natural gas, explosives, volatile chemicals, and nuclear fuels. Within the planning area, a hazardous materials release or spill would most likely involve either transportation of materials by railroad or truck, use of hazardous materials at a business, or illegal dumping of hazardous wastes. Hazardous materials are transported to and through the planning area by vehicles using Interstate 5, State Routes 14 and 126, and the Union Pacific Railroad. California law provides a general framework for regulation of hazardous wastes by the Hazardous Waste Control Law (HWCL), passed in 1972. The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) is the State's lead agency for implementing the HWCL, which regulates hazardous waste facilities and requires permits for facilities involved in the generation, treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous wastes. In 1986 the State passed the Tanner Act (AB 2948) which governs the preparation of hazardous waste management plans and siting of hazardous waste facilities. Under this Act each County must adopt a Hazardous Waste Management Plan. The Los Angeles County Hazardous Waste Management Plan provides direction for the proper management of all hazardous waste in the County and 38 contract cities, including data on hazardous waste generation, existing treatment facilities, household and other small generator waste, and siting criteria for hazardous waste management facilities. Any such facility is required to consider protection of residents, surface and groundwater quality, air quality, environmentally sensitive areas, structural stability, safe transportation routes, social and economic goals. S-25 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan Within Los Angeles County, the Fire Department has the responsibility of regulating hazardous waste management through its Health Hazardous Materials Division (HHMD). The County's Public Works Department assists through implementation of the underground storage tank program. There are three County fire stations that handle hazardous materials incidents (known as Haz Mat Stations); Station 76 is located in Valencia and serves the Santa Clarita Valley. Emergency response to accidents associated with hazardous material is generally undertaken by the Fire Department and its HHMD Division, pursuant to the Los Angeles County Fire/Health Haz Mat Administering Agency Plan. The transport of hazardous materials and explosives through the planning area on State highways and freeways is regulated by the State Department of Transportation (Caltrans). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency maintains a list of all sites in the nation that are contaminated with hazardous substances. This list is known as the CERCLIS Database. The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) also maintains a list of contaminated sites in the State for which it is providing oversight and enforcement of clean-up activities, known as the Cal -Sites Database. As of 2003, there were nine sites in the planning area on which clean-up was either on -going or completed. Of these, the most significant in terms of area and potential for redevelopment is the Whittaker- Berm ite property, a 988-acre site previously used for explosive and flare manufacture. Today the site is largely vacant and is undergoing clean-up of perchlorate and other chemicals released by previous industrial users. The (DTSC) is responsible for overseeing the soil and groundwater remediation activities at the site. A number of options are provided to help residents and businesses safely dispose of hazardous waste. The City's residential waste hauler (Waste Management) provides bulky item pickup service, which includes electronic waste (e-waste) such as old computers and televisions. Residents may also drop off a -waste items at the waste hauler's yard. The City also has a door- to-door Household Hazardous Waste pick-up program run through Curbside, Inc., under which limited amounts of antifreeze, automobile batteries, motor oil and filters, house paint, and e- waste will be picked up upon receiving telephone notification. Programs for disposal of a -waste and small amounts of hazardous waste generated from businesses in the City are also available through Curbside, Inc., while larger quantities generated from businesses must be disposed of through a qualified hauler. The County offers weekly household hazardous waste collection events at various locations throughout the county, including the Santa Clarita Valley, at which residents can drop off their hazardous waste for disposal. The County also maintains several permanent collection facilities; for Santa Clarita Valley residents, the closest permanent hazardous waste collection facility is located in Palmdale (1200 W. City Ranch Road). County residents may also use City of Los Angeles hazardous waste collection centers; the closest of these facilities is in Sun Valley (11025 Randall Street). Hazardous waste collection for businesses located in County areas must be arranged with private waste haulers. All hazardous waste collected is disposed of in a hazardous waste landfill. Information on City and County programs for disposal of hazardous waste is available on the websites of each agency. DRAFT May, 2011 S-26 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety H. Emergency Preparedness and Response Emeraencv Preparedness Plans In an emergency, local governments must provide emergency response services in addition to maintaining normal day-to-day duties, to the extent possible. The California Code of Regulations establishes the standard response structure and basic procedures to be used by local governments for emergency response and recovery. As required by State law, both the County and City have adopted the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) for managing response to multi -agency and multi -jurisdictional emergencies, and to facilitate communications and coordination among all levels of government and affected agencies. SEMS establishes organizational levels for managing emergencies, standardized emergency management methods, and standardized training for responders and managers. When fully activated, SEMS activities occur at five levels: field response, local government, operational areas (county -wide), Mutual Aid Regions, and at the State level. Both City and County emergency plans provide operational concepts, describe responsibilities, and outline procedures for emergency response. The County has adopted an Operational Area Emergency Response Plan, which describes the planned responses to emergencies associated with natural and man-made disasters and technological incidents. The City's 2003 SEMS Multihazard Functional Plan addresses planned response to emergencies associated with natural disasters and technological incidents, including both peacetime and wartime nuclear defense operations. Along with all the hazards discussed above, the plan addresses response procedures for a major airplane crash, train derailment, truck incident, Metrolink incident or collision, civil unrest, terrorism, and nuclear attack. Emphasis is given to emergency planning; training of full-time, auxiliary and reserve personnel; public awareness and education; and assuring the adequacy and availability of sufficient resources to cope with emergencies. The plan also identifies appropriate land use, design, and construction regulations to reduce losses from disasters. The City's SEMS plan addresses the following four phases of emergency response: Preparedness phase, requiring increased readiness for emergency through preparation of emergency plans and procedures, providing information and training, inspection of critical facilities, recruitment of disaster personnel, mobilization of resources, and testing of systems. 2. Response phase, which may require evacuation of threatened populations, dissemination of public information about the disaster, coordination with other agencies, obtaining mutual aid, declaration of a Local Emergency, evaluation of damage, establishment of care and shelter operations, and restoration of vital services and utilities. 3. Recovery phase, which may include coordinating assistance programs and support priorities, rejoining affected families, providing essential services, restoring property, identifying residual hazards, mitigating future hazards, and recovering costs. 4. Mitigation phase, designed to mitigate impacts after the disaster through updating local ordinances and codes, upgrading structures, recovering costs, providing information and training, and revising land use plans as needed. S-27 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan In addition to the SEMS plan, in 2004 the City adopted a five-year Natural Hazard Mitigation Action Plan as a collaborative effort between City staff and citizens, public agencies, non-profit organizations, the private sector, and regional and State agencies. The plan provides a list of activities that may assist the City in reducing risk and preventing loss from natural hazard events, including earthquakes, floods, hazardous material spills, landslides and earth movement, severe weather, and wildland fires. The plan contains a five-year action matrix based on the following mission statement: "To promote sound public policy designed to protect citizens, critical facilities, infrastructure, private property, and the environment from natural hazards. This can be achieved by increasing public awareness, documenting the resources for risk reduction and loss -prevention, and identifying activities to guide the City toward building a safer, more sustainable community." The Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan also identifies all critical facilities and infrastructure and establishes goals to increase emergency response and enhance recovery. In 2006, the City of Santa Clarita adopted and implemented the National Incident Management System (NIMS) to comply with Federal Department of Homeland Security requirements, based on Homeland Security Presidential Directive 5 (HSPD-5), Management of Domestic Incidents. This directive required a phased -in adoption and implementation of NIMS by State and local governments as a condition of receipt of federal preparedness funding, including Homeland Security grants. HSPD-5 requires all federal, State, local and tribal jurisdictions to adopt NIMS and use it in their individual domestic incident management, emergency prevention, preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation activities. NIMS does not replace SEMS but will rather be integrated into SEMS by emergency personnel. Because the federal government modeled NIMS after SEMS, the two systems use similar terminology and procedures, although NIMS also includes new requirements for reporting and qualifications. The City has implemented a regional telephone notification system that will be able to send information to residents and businesses within the Santa Clarita Valley affected by, or in danger of, the impacts of an emergency or disaster. Emergency response personnel can use the system to notify those homes and businesses that are at potential risk with information on the events and/or actions (such as evacuation) that the City and local public safety Officials are asking them to take. The City's notification system includes the incorporated City limits as well as areas outside the City. The school districts have separate notification systems, and the County is preparing to implement a Countywide call system. In the event of evacuations, the Fire Department directs the Sheriff's Department regarding areas that need to be evacuated. That information is then shared with the City's Emergency Operations Center, and emergency notification is then conveyed to residents. Another method of relaying emergency -related information is through the City's e-alert. This phone -based tool allows residents to receive mobile phone text alerts concerning emergencies affecting the community. Residents can subscribe and automatically receive emergency -related text alerts (eAlerts) from the City by texting the term "SCEMERGENCY" to 41411 from any mobile phone device and mobile service provider. Community Preparedness and Traininq The County and City both implement comprehensive programs for emergency preparedness, including community involvement and training. To educate the public about emergency response, the City and County cooperate to offer residents training through the Community Emergency Response Training (CERT) program, which focuses on effective disaster/emergency response techniques. The CERT program is designed to help families, DRAFT May, 2011 S-28 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety neighborhoods, schools and businesses prepare for effective disaster and emergency response through training and pre -planning. Program material covers earthquakes, fires, floods, hazardous materials incidents, and other life -threatening situations. Participants attend seven weekly classes designed to help them recognize potential hazards and take appropriate actions; identify, organize, and utilize available resources and people; and treat victims of life - threatening conditions through Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment (START). A second class is also offered to graduates of the basic CERT course, which provides more in-depth training on critical incident stress management, handling animals during disasters, community traffic safety, and the Incident Command System. From 1997 through 2007, more than 1,100 Santa Clarita Valley residents were trained in the CERT program. In 2001, the CERT program was expanded with another level of training, CERT II. The training provided in this second CERT program was developed and implemented based on the emergency response issues of the Santa Clarita Valley, and includes modules on Community Traffic Safety; Psychological First Aid (Critical Incident Stress Management); SEMS, NIMS, and Incident Command; and Animal Preparedness. Once a year the City also presents an Emergency Expo, attended by several thousand residents, at which residents are provided with information materials on emergency preparedness. Over 60 agencies and vendors participate in this event, in an effort to provide relevant information with an interactive approach. The City promotes the CERT program at the Emergency Expo by using CERT-trained volunteers to provide information at various booths and activities. Through its emergency management program, the City also provides ongoing training and outreach to schools, businesses, faith -based institutions, seniors, and the special needs community. The City uses its website, City Hall, and local libraries as locations to distribute information on disaster preparedness and response to residents. Since 2006, the City has collaborated with the College of the Canyons, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, the Sheriff's Department, and CERT volunteers to develop and adopt a Point of Dispensing (POD) plan to respond to bioterrorism, pandemic flu epidemics, or similar public health threats. The plan is based on a multi -agency approach using the NIMS model, and included conducting a drive -through medication dispensing exercise to be used in the event a mass quantity of medications needs to be distributed to the public within a short period of time. In 2006 and 2007, trained student nurses from College of the Canyons worked side by side with Public Health personnel administering flu shots, in order to test the drive - through model. The Santa Clarita Emergency Communications Team is a local chapter of the County Disaster Communication Service and is registered as a civil defense organization under the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES). The team's primary purpose is to supply emergency communications for the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and the City of Santa Clarita. Members are volunteer amateur radio operators who assist other emergency responders by enhancing communications services. Members also assist with the Santa Clarita Fire Watch program and the School Emergency Communication Plan. In addition to emergency response, the group assists with community events such as the Santa Clarita Marathon, Cowboy Poetry Festival, and Fourth of July Parade. S-29 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan In spite of these programs and the outreach efforts by the City and County, many residents are not adequately prepared for emergencies. A 2007 County Department of Public Health Report found that more than 20 percent of households in the County did not have emergency supplies on hand, and only 41 percent of the respondents said they had an emergency plan for their family. In a major disaster each household may need to survive on its own resources for several days before help arrives. It is necessary for each family and head of household to proactively prepare for emergencies by developing a plan and stockpiling adequate supplies. Information on how to prepare for disasters is available on the City's website and through the training programs described in this section. Emergency Access The Santa Clarita Valley has freeway access along only three routes — Interstate 5 and State Route 14 going north and south, and State Route 126 going west — to use for evacuation purposes in the event of an emergency such as fire or earthquake. Residents in some areas, such as Stevenson Ranch and Castaic, will need alternate evacuation routes in case Interstate 5 is closed during an emergency incident. City and County staff have developed alternate evacuation routes along surface streets to provide alternate travel routes through and out of the Santa Clarita Valley. Opening of the new Cross Valley Connector will also provide an effective east -west route for use in the event of an emergency. In addition to addressing evacuation routes, detour routes have been implemented through the Santa Clarita Valley in the event that the local freeways are closed. The Santa Clarita Valley has been affected by major highway closures that, like the 1994 Northridge Earthquake, cut off the Santa Clarita Valley from the San Fernando Valley and beyond. One of the most recent incidents occurred when a big rig crashed inside a truck route tunnel under the Interstate 5. The result was a 30-plus big rig and car pile up that cost three lives and caused the two-day closure of the north and southbound lanes of Interstate 5. Interstate 5 is California's main north/south highway, and locally, handles in upwards of 250,000 cars per day. The resulting impacts to local streets put the City of Santa Clarita's Emergency Operations Center into action, along with its state-of-the-art traffic monitoring and control technology. The City, along with Los Angeles County Sheriffs Traffic Division, California Highway Patrol and Caltrans developed a traffic plan that included three alternate routes (A, B, and C as noted in Exhibit S-7) through the City of Santa Clarita from Interstate 5 to State Route 14. In addition, the City of Santa Clarita worked with Metrolink to add additional commuter trains and parking at the City's three Metrolink stations. City staff also personally directed commuters to the newly expanded parking lots for the Monday morning commute and provided shuttle service for quick access to the stations. Residents were also able to stay informed of unforeseen changes to their specific route through U-Text, a text messaging service that allows commuters to subscribe and receive mobile phone text alerts when there are urgent changes to a commuter route. The 1994 Northridge Earthquake toppled the Interstate 5/State Route 14 interchange and the same interchange also collapsed during the 1971 Sylmar earthquake. Since that time, the interchange has been rebuilt to enhanced seismic standards. Caltrans has also tested all freeway bridges and interchanges in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties to ensure they meet current seismic standards for structural safety. DRAFT May, 2011 S-30 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety During the development review process, emergency access is evaluated for all pending development projects. Two means of ingress and egress are required for all major development projects, including subdivisions and commercial/industrial sites. Adequate road and driveway widths are required to provide access to fire trucks, along with turnouts and turnaround areas where deemed necessary. Traffic control during evacuation procedures will be based upon the nature of the emergency and the condition of the roads. Temporary signage will be placed by the City and County Public Works Departments to ensure that evacuation routes are clearly marked for motorists. Law Enforcement and Crime Prevention Police Protection Communities within the planning area are served by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, which is housed within the Department's Santa Clarita Valley Station located in Valencia. The Station's service area covers 656 square miles, including both City and County areas and portions of the Angeles National Forest. The Sheriff's Department oversees general law and traffic enforcement within the City, while the California Highway Patrol (CHP) has jurisdiction over traffic on State highways and in unincorporated County areas. The location of law enforcement facilities is shown on Exhibit S-5. The Santa Clarita Sheriff's Station was designed to house a staff of about 90 personnel, and space is insufficient to meet current staffing and future needs. In the year 2008, there were a total of 242 budgeted personnel housed at the station, including deputies, sergeants, and support staff. The Sheriff's Department also operates one storefront substation in Newhall. Storefront stations are staffed 8 to 12 hours per day, sometimes with civilian personnel. The Department provides helicopter air support, search and rescue coordination, and the Career Offenders Burglary Robbery (COBRA) unit, which handles juvenile and gang -related crimes. Special programs offered in conjunction with community members and other organizations include the Anti -Gang Task Force, Citizens' Option for Public Safety (COPS) grants, drug education, the Family Violence Task Force, gang education, graffiti abatement, local law enforcement block grants, and emergency response programs. The station also has an extensive off -road enforcement team that spends considerable time working complaint areas in the rural portions of both City and County jurisdictions. The Sheriff's Department is planning for expansion of the main station, and is also planning to expand staffing levels to meet the needs of the Santa Clarita Valley's growing population. Although there is no adopted law enforcement staffing level standard, the Sheriff's Department strives to maintain one officer per 1,000 people, and this service level is being met within the Santa Clarita Valley. Response times for law enforcement calls vary by time of day, number of officers on duty, traffic conditions, and call volume. Calls for service are classified as Routine, Priority, or Emergent. Routine calls, such as vandalism reports, do not require a priority response from field units. Priority incidents, such as domestic disturbances, require an immediate response but not a "code three" response. Emergent incidents, such as a traffic accident or shooting, require an automatic code three response. From 1990 to 1999, the total volume of calls for service increased by about 35 percent (from 35,031 to 47,470); however, response times for priority and emergent incident calls remained approximately the same. S-31 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan For the purpose of compiling crime statistics, the term Part 1 Crimes is used to describe the most serious offenses, including homicide, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny, theft, grand theft auto, and arson. According to annual reports compiled by the Sheriff's Department, the rate of Part 1 Crimes in the Santa Clarita Valley has remained fairly constant since year 2000. In 2006, the California Department of Justice ranked the City of Santa Clarita as the third safest city in California for cities with a population of 150,000 or more (following Irvine and Glendale). The Sheriff's Department and City credit proactive law enforcement and crime prevention programs with achieving this ranking. In addition to providing law enforcement and response services, the Sheriff's Department uses community -oriented policing strategies to prevent crime, and engages citizens in crime prevention efforts through a number of programs. The Community Relations Unit at the Sheriff's Station oversees community -oriented policing programs, including Neighborhood Watch, Business Watch, vacation security, and other crime prevention programs. Sheriff's deputies hold regular meetings throughout the Santa Clarita Valley to educate the public on crime prevention and provide information about gangs, personal safety, vehicle security, and teen and parent survival. The Sheriff's Department also includes a Teen Resource page on its website listing information about substance abuse, suicide prevention, gang membership, sexual assault, pregnancy and birth control, and AIDS. According to the Sheriff's Department, "the Neighborhood Watch Program is a working network of concerned and proactive citizens throughout the Valley. Meetings are conducted in neighborhoods to establish an effective crime prevention plan. Each neighborhood in the program has developed relationships with each other and with Law Enforcement to protect them against crime." Through the Neighborhood Watch Training Program, the Sheriff's Department trains citizens on techniques to protect themselves and their properties from auto theft, identity theft, burglary, graffiti, and "senior scam protection." In 2007, the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station and the City, in conjunction with the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce, launched the first Business Watch program in the Santa Clarita Valley. This program provides information to business owners about strategies to enhance building security, ensure security for employees, prevent loss from theft and forgery, minimize the risk of identity theft, and other crime prevention techniques. The program provides training for both employers and employees on how to develop emergency procedures and prevent loss from crime. The primary planning issue for the Sheriff's Department at this time is expansion of space, both at the main station and at additional substations, in order to meet existing and projected needs for law enforcement programs and services in the Santa Clarita Valley. In 2008, the Sheriff's Department adopted a funding program for capital facilities needed to meet the law enforcement needs of expected growth in the Santa Clarita Valley, through collection of a law enforcement impact fee. Both the City and the County collect the law enforcement fee on new development permits, to fund future facilities. Detention Facilities The Peter J. Pitchess Detention Center (Pitchess) in Castaic is the largest jail complex in the County, and serves the entire planning area, as well as other County areas. The jail consists of four facilities, but only three are currently operated. The North Facility is a maximum -security facility with a housing capacity of 1,556. The East Facility, the oldest operational jail in the County, has been renovated and houses a maximum capacity of 1,974 inmates. The North DRAFT May, 2011 S-32 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety County Correctional Facility is a maximum security complex housing a maximum capacity of 3,928 inmates. This facility also includes vocational training programs in the areas of computer sign production, clothing manufacturing, and printing. As of 2007, Pitchess had a housing capacity of 7,500 inmates. The location of this facility is shown on Exhibit S-5. In 2007, plans were developed to expand the barracks at Pitchess to house more than 1,000 female inmates. The County Board of Supervisors approved the $136.6 million expansion project to serve female inmates from throughout the County, in order to relieve overcrowding and improve safety and security. The Los Angeles County Probation Department provides secure detention for delinquent minors in juvenile halls, and control and rehabilitations programs in Camp Scott and Camp Scudder. Juvenile halls provide confinement to minors ranging in age from 8 to 18 who await adjudication and disposition of legal matters. Camps provide treatment, care, custody, and training for the rehabilitation of delinquent minors as wards of the juvenile court. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design One of the ways in which land use planning can assist law enforcement and promote public safety is through incorporating crime prevention techniques into development site designs. This concept was promoted by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in its 1996 publication Creating Defensible Space by Oscar Newman. z Newman first published his theories about defensible space in 1972 and they were successfully adopted in many communities. The use of environmental design features to prevent crime has been called CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design). In 1995 the City of Los Angeles issued CPTED Design Guidelines based on the premise that "proper design and effective use of the built environment can lead to a reduction in the incidents and fear of crime, reduction in calls for police services, and to an increase in the quality of life. ,3 The County uses similar guidelines for public housing facilities administered by the Community Development Commission. According to Newman, "Defensible space operates by subdividing large portions of public spaces and assigning them to individuals and small groups to use and control as their own private areas... All defensible space programs have a common purpose: they restructure the physical layout of communities to allow residents to control the areas around their homes. This includes the streets and grounds outside their buildings and the lobbies and corridors within them."4 In his studies of St. Louis and other cities, Newman found that when residents had some control over public space around their homes they maintained these areas in a clean, safe condition. However, when common areas were open to many dwelling units and to the public, with no oversight or supervision by residents, these areas were subject to vandalism, dumping, and crime. Newman found that crime was also influenced by building height and design. High- rise residential buildings (over four stories) were found to be unsuitable for families with children, although they could be effective for senior communities if properly designed. Within public housing for families, he found that project size and the number of dwelling units sharing common entries correlated to crime rates. Large building size also affected residents' fear of crime, and resulted in high rates of residential turnover and vacancy. Z Newman, Oscar. Creating Defensible Space. U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Policy Development and Research. April, 1996. 3 Design Out Crime: Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design Guidelines, City of Los Angeles, W61610 4 Newman, page 2 S-33 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan Defensible space is an important consideration in residential development, particularly in high - density, multiple family residential areas. Other CPTED principles include the following: Surveillance. Areas that are accessible to the public but are not readily visible, such as dead-end alleys and drive aisles, often attract crime. Surveillance is a design concept directed at keeping intruders under observation by locating windows overlooking common areas. Access control. Controlling access to a site protects users from crime by creating a perception of risk for potential offenders. • Territorial reinforcement. The physical design of a site can contribute to a sense of territorial "ownership" by site users. Areas that are not clearly under the supervision of adjacent buildings are subject to trespass and illicit activities. CPTED design strategies include provision of adequate lighting; grouping common activity areas together to promote surveillance; providing clear travel paths with avoidance of dead-end pathways or drive aisles; provision of security devices such as fencing and cameras; clearly delineating public and private spaces; avoidance of "no man's land" areas on the site; providing secure, lighted storage areas; avoidance of long corridors shared by all and owned by none; encouraging neighborhood watch programs; use of landscaping to avoid graffiti; and elimination of hiding places within landscaped areas. Although neither the City nor County have formally adopted CPTED guidelines, safety issues are addressed through the development review process in both agencies. Policies have been added to the Safety Element to promote crime prevention through site design in future development decisions. J. Terrorism Terrorism is defined as the use of fear for intimidation. Terrorism is a crime where the threat of violence is often as effective as the commission of the violent act itself. Terrorism affects us through fear, physical injuries, economic losses, psychological trauma, and erosion of faith in government. Terrorism is a strategy used by individuals or groups to achieve their political goals. Terrorists espouse a wide range of causes. They can be for or against almost any issue, religious belief, political position, or group of people of one national origin or another. Because of the tremendous variety of causes supported by terrorists and the wide variety of potential targets, there is no place that is truly safe from terrorism. Throughout California there is a nearly limitless number of potential targets, depending on the perspective of the terrorist. Some of these targets include: abortion clinics, religious facilities, government offices, public places (such as shopping centers), schools, power plants, refineries, utility infrastructure, water storage facilities, dams, private homes, prominent individuals, financial institutions and other businesses. In March 2002, Presidential Directive 3 established a Homeland Security Advisory System to provide a comprehensive and effective means to disseminate information regarding the risk of terrorist acts to Federal, State, and local authorities and citizens. The system provides warnings in the form of a set of graduated "Threat Conditions" that would increase as the risk of the threat increases. DRAFT May, 2011 S-34 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety This system creates a common vocabulary, context, and structure for an ongoing discussion about the nature of the threats that confront the homeland and the appropriate measures that should be taken in response. It seeks to inform and facilitate decisions appropriate to different levels of government and to private citizens at home and at work. The Homeland Security Advisory System (HSAS) is binding at the Executive Branch level and is suggested, although voluntary at other levels of government and within the private sector. There are five Threat Conditions, each identified by a description and corresponding color: Higher threat conditions indicate a greater the risk of a terrorist attack. Risk includes both the probability of an attack occurring and the potential gravity. Threat conditions are assigned by the Attorney General in consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security. Threat conditions may be assigned for the entire nation, or they may be set for a particular geographic area or industrial sector. Assigned threat conditions are reviewed at regular intervals to determine whether adjustments are warranted. The assignment of a threat condition will prompt the implementation of an appropriate set of Protective Measures. Protective Measures are the specific steps an organization will take to reduce its vulnerability or increase its ability to respond during a heightened alert. Santa Clarita Protective Measures Threat Condition levels and corresponding protective measures are listed below: Low Condition (Green) This condition is declared when there is a low risk of terrorist attack. Emergency Operations Center activation level is inactive. Ensure staff receives proper training on Homeland Security Advisory System, and protective measures Regularly assess facilities for vulnerabilities and take measures to reduce them Refine and exercise as appropriate preplanned protective measures Guarded Condition (Blue) This condition is declared when there is a general risk of terrorist attacks. Emergency Operations Center activation level is inactive. Review and update emergency response procedures Provide the public with any information that would strengthen its ability to act appropriately Check communications with designated emergency response or command locations Elevated Condition (Yellow) An elevated condition is declared when there is a significant risk or terrorist attacks. This condition may or may not activate the Emergency Operations Center depending on a regional/local assessment. S-35 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan • Increase surveillance of critical locations whose loss will have an adverse effect on the City's and County's ability to provide service to the public and/or accomplish its primary mission • Coordinate emergency plans as appropriate with nearby jurisdictions • Assess preplanned protective measures within the context of the current threat • Keep staff aware of what procedures are taking place High Condition (Orange) A high condition is declared when there is a high risk of terrorist attacks. This condition may or may not activate the Emergency Operations Center depending on local/regional assessment. • Take additional precautions at public events • Review building evacuation plans • Review mail handling/package delivery procedures • Review information technology system security issues including remote capabilities • Review emergency reporting procedures • Be prepared to have someone monitor the Emergency Management Information System (EMIS) if directed • Restrict public access to buildings if threat assessment is credible regionally/locally • Coordinate necessary security effort with law enforcements agencies including the Los Angeles County Sheriff and California Highway Patrol • Prepared to execute contingency procedures • Test staff notification procedures/systems Severe Condition (Red) A severe condition reflects a severe risk of terrorist attacks. Emergency Operations Center activation may activate from monitoring to full activation; this will depend on the local/regional assessment. • Stand ready to increase or redirect personnel to address critical emergency needs • Monitor, redirect, or constrain transportation systems • Consider closing public facilities based on Terrorism Early Warning Group threat guidance • Consider canceling large scale public events if their security cannot be enhanced, based on Terrorism Early Warning Group threat guidance • Activate Emergency Operations Center, level of activation determined by threat assessment from Terrorism Early Warning Group threat guidance • Direct staff to monitor EMIS • Ensure all staff are kept informed DRAFT May, 2011 S-36 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety Bioterrorism Plannin Bioterrorism is the threatened or intentional release of biological agents (virus, bacteria, or air toxins) for the purpose of influencing the conduct of government or intimidating or coercing a civilian population. These agents can be released by way of air (as aerosols), food, water, or insects. Since the terrorist attacks of September 1, 2001, and the subsequent anthrax incidents, there has been a great concern about bioterrorism in the United States. With this concern, there is growing recognition that the unique characteristics of a bioterrorist attack, in contrast to a conventional attack, would require additional response preparation and coordination. An integral part of bioterrorism response is mass prophylaxis. Mass prophylaxis is the capability to protect the health of the population through administration of critical intervention (e.g., antibiotics, vaccinations, antivirals) to mitigate the development of disease among those who are exposed or potentially exposed to public health threats. Every public health jurisdiction in the country is charged with the responsibility to develop and maintain the capability to carry out first response and ongoing mass antibiotic dispensing and vaccination campaigns tailored to its local population. There are two conceptual approaches to mass prophylaxis: "push" and "pull" approach; one is utilizing the U.S. Postal Service to bring medications directly to individuals or homes in an affected community. The "pull" approach requires that individuals travel to centers where they can receive medications or vaccinations. Points of Dispensing (POD) are an example of the "pull" approach. In preparation for a unique response to a bioterrorism attack, the City of Santa Clarita, the Los Angeles County Department of Health, and the College of the Canyons (COC) have collaborated to coordinate and respond with a drive-thru POD models to assist those potentially exposed to a biological agent. Utilizing the drive thru POD, the City, COC and Department of Health Services have tested the model by operating an influenza vaccination clinic. Since 2006, this yearly exercise serves as an opportunity to test the POD model while providing a vital real -world service to the general population. COC is a designated POD site, because it has a school of nursing and an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program that support the medical operations component of the POD. In addition, COC's site has the capacity to handle the vehicle traffic flow. The Community Emergency Response Training (CERT) team, volunteers, and City staff from emergency management, recreation and community services, traffic engineering, and public works also support the POD operations. Emergency Medical Services Los Angeles County Department of Health Emergency Services Agency developed a Disaster Resource Center (DRC) program to address issues related to healthcare surge capacity. There are 13 DRCs geographically located in Los Angeles County. In the Santa Clarita Valley, Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital (HMNMH) is one of the designated DRCs. As the designated DRC site, HMNMH is the lead for 11 other hospitals. S-37 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan DRCs are hospitals that address surge capacity in a disaster through procurement, storage, maintenance and security of extra medical equipment, supplies and pharmaceuticals. Each DRC works with hospitals, clinics and other healthcare providers in their geographic location to plan, train, exercise and facilitate regional disaster preparedness. Each DRC also has capability to mobilize storage trailers outfitted with equipment and supplies to set up a mobile triage area with inflatable surge tents. HMNMH has a medical cache and a pharmaceutical cache, ventilators, patient monitors, communication equipment, security equipment for crowd control, evacuation equipment and staff to manage the program. HMNMH also has the capability to expand and provide care with surgery beds, isolation areas, pharmaceuticals, personal protective equipment for chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive events (CBRNE), and decontamination facilities. In addition, HMNMH has a certified trained decontamination team, and staff trained in psychological first aid, and trauma burn care. When a disaster strikes and it is beyond the capability of the local jurisdictions, the affected area would contact Los Angeles County Medical Alert Center (MAC). MAC then would survey other DRC's for items requested. K. Accident Prevention Safety issues related to accident prevention overlap some of the other areas addressed in the General Plan. As with crime prevention, design features can be used to forestall accidents from trip -and -fall hazards on development sites through provision of adequate lighting, clearly delineated pathways, well -marked building entrances, and appropriate selection and maintenance of landscape material. Accidental injuries on trails and bikeways can be prevented through planning and design as well, including illumination, signage, traffic markings, adequate trail width and surface material, removal of hazardous landscaping and other obstructions, and safe crossings at intersections. Accidents involving vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists within the public right-of-way can be minimized through installation of traffic control devices and implementation of other policies contained in the Circulation Element. Through the design review process, the layout of parking lots and driveways on new development projects is evaluated for potential conflicts between vehicles, delivery trucks, and pedestrians, in order to avoid potentially hazardous areas on the site. Both the City and County continually monitor traffic accident data in order to determine if additional traffic control devices are needed to maintain public safety, and traffic improvements are installed where warranted. L. Summary of Safety Planning Needs in the Santa Clarita Valley Based on the existing conditions and issues outlined in the background sections of the Safety Element, safety planning needs for the Santa Clarita Valley are summarized below. Policies and objectives in the following section have been developed to address these needs. Reduce risks to public safety and property from seismic activity and related hazards, through identification of seismic hazard zones and requirements for seismic design. 2. Identify and mitigate hazards from soil instability, including landslides and subsidence, through identification of hazard areas and requirements for design mitigations to address unstable soils. DRAFT May, 2011 S-38 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety 3. Plan for and ensure construction and maintenance of adequate flood control facilities to protect existing and future residents from flood hazards. 4. Identify risks from, and plan for emergency response, in the event of dam failure from the Castaic or Bouquet Canyon Reservoirs. 5. Address drainage improvement needs to mitigate localized flooding problems. 6. Require Low Impact Development techniques in planning and construction, to reduce stormwater runoff, promote infiltration, and reduce the need for costly flood control infrastructure. 7. Control and regulate new development and construction in identified floodplains by applying appropriate development standards, and implement federal floodplain management policies to protect public safety and property. 8. Promote planning for and coordination with the Los Angeles County Fire Department to construct new fire stations as needed throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. 9. Adopt and implement policies for fire -safe development in urban/wildland interface areas. 10. Require adequate emergency access, street identification, and address numbers in all development, to ensure timely response to emergencies. 11. Identify, sign, maintain, and provide public information regarding evacuation routes through and out of the Santa Clarita Valley, in the event of a major disaster. 12. Continue coordinating with other agencies to provide information and training to residents about maintaining adequate firebreaks in wildland interface areas. 13. Ensure provision of adequate fire flow for new development. 14. Continue providing tree maintenance services for trees on public property as part of the urban forestry management program, to limit damage during windstorms from falling limbs. 15. Protect residents from the harmful effects of hazardous materials through appropriate zoning and development standards, and coordinate with other agencies as needed on clean-up efforts for contaminated areas. 16. Continue to prepare, update and implement emergency preparedness procedures and response plans. 17. Continue to provide training to public officials and residents on emergency preparedness and response. 18. Cooperate with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department to expand facility space in the Santa Clarita Valley to meet current and projected law enforcement needs. S-39 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan 19. Promote crime prevention through public education and support of Neighborhood Watch, Business Watch, and CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) programs. 20. Promote measures to prevent accidental injury by ensuring adequate lighting, addressing trip and fall hazards, analyzing traffic accident data and providing traffic safety improvements where needed, promoting walkable neighborhoods, ensuring safe trails, and other similar programs. 21. Cooperate with appropriate agencies and the public to create a plan to prepare for and respond to potential terrorist activities. PART 2: SAFETY GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES Geological Hazards Goal S 1: Protection of public safety and property from hazardous geological conditions, including seismic rupture and ground shaking, soil instability, and related hazards. Objective S 1.1: Identify and map areas in the Santa Clarita Valley that are susceptible to geological hazards, for use by the public and decision makers in considering development plans. Policy S 1.1.1: Maintain maps of potentially active faults and fault zones, based on information available from the Alquist-Priolo Special Studies Zone maps, United States Geological Survey, State Board of Geologists, State Mining and Geology Board, and other appropriate sources. Policy S 1.1.2: Maintain maps of areas subject to liquefaction and landslides, based on data provided by the State and other appropriate sources. Policy S 1.1.3: In the event of significant incidents of soil subsidence, compile data and prepare maps showing areas with potential for this hazard. Policy S 1.1.4: Maintain maps showing potential inundation areas from dam failure. Objective S 1.2: Regulate new development in areas subject to geological hazards to reduce risks to the public from seismic events or geological instability. Policy S 1.2.1: Implement requirements of the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act. Policy S 1.2.2: Restrict the land use type and intensity of development in areas subject to fault rupture, landslides, or liquefaction, in order to limit exposure of people to seismic hazards. Policy S 1.2.3: Require soils and geotechnical reports for new construction in areas with potential hazards from faulting, landslides, liquefaction, or subsidence, and incorporate recommendations from these studies into the site design as appropriate. DRAFT May, 2011 S-40 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety Policy S 1.2.4: Enforce seismic design and building techniques in local building codes. Policy S 1.2.5: Consider the potential for inundation from failure of the Castaic or Bouquet Canyon Reservoir dams when reviewing development proposals within potential inundation areas. Objective S 1.3: Reduce risk of damage in developed areas from seismic activity. Policy S 1.3.1: Identify any remaining unreinforced masonry buildings or other unstable structures, and require remediation or seismic retrofitting as needed to meet seismic safety requirements. Policy S 1.3.2: Increase earthquake safety in all public facilities through bracing of shelves, cabinets, equipment and other measures as deemed appropriate. Policy S 1.3.3: Provide informational materials to the public on how to make their homes and businesses earthquake safe. Policy S 1.3.4: Cooperate with other agencies as needed to ensure regular inspections of public infrastructure such as bridges, dams, and other critical facilities, and require repairs to these structures as needed to prevent failure in the event of seismic activity. Flood Hazards Goal S 2: Protection of public safety and property from unreasonable risks due to flooding. Objective S 2.1: Plan for flood protection as part of a multi -objective watershed management approach for the Santa Clara River and its tributaries. Policy S 2.1.1: On the Land Use Map, designate appropriate areas within the floodplain as open space for multi -use purposes, including flood control, habitat preservation, and recreational open space. Development in the floodplain will require mitigation as deemed necessary by the reviewing authority. Policy S 2.1.2: Promote Low Impact Development standards on development sites, including but not limited to minimizing impervious surface area and promoting infiltration, in order to reduce the flow and velocity of stormwater runoff throughout the watershed. Policy S 2.1.3: Promote the use of vegetated drainage courses and soft -bottom channels for flood control facilities to the extent feasible, in order to achieve water quality and habitat objectives in addition to flood control. Policy S 2.1.4: Cooperate with other agencies as appropriate regarding the related issues of flood control, watershed management, water quality, and habitat protection. S-41 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy S 2.1.5: Promote the joint use of flood control facilities with other beneficial uses where feasible, such as by incorporating detention basins into parks and extending trails through floodplains. Objective S 2.2: Identify areas in the Santa Clarita Valley that are subject to inundation from flooding. Policy S 2.2.1: Prepare and maintain maps of floodways and floodplains based on information from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other appropriate sources, in order to qualify for FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program. Policy S 2.2.2: Identify areas subject to localized short-term flooding due to drainage deficiencies. Objective S 2.3: Plan for and construct adequate drainage and flood control infrastructure to ensure flood protection. Policy S 2.3.1: Implement drainage master plans designed to handle storm flows from the 100-year storm. Policy S 2.3.2: Include funding for drainage and flood control improvements in the annual City budget. Objective S 2.4: Implement flood safety measures in new development Policy S 2.4.1: Require that new development comply with FEMA floodplain management requirements. Policy S 2.4.2: On the Land Use Map, restrict the type and intensity of land use in flood -prone areas, or require flood -proof construction, as deemed appropriate. Objective S 2.5: Limit risks to existing developed areas from flooding. Policy S 2.5.1: Address drainage problems that cause flooding on prominent transportation corridors by working with multi -jurisdictional agencies and stakeholders to construct needed drainage improvements. Policy S 2.5.2: Provide for the maintenance of drainage structures and flood control facilities to avoid system malfunctions and overflows. Finn Na7arric Goal S 3: Protection of public safety and property from fires. Objective S 3.1: Provide adequate fire protection infrastructure to maintain acceptable service levels as established by the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Policy S 3.1.1: Coordinate on planning for new fire stations to meet current and projected needs. DRAFT May, 2011 S-42 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety Policy S 3.1.2: Program adequate funding for capital fire protection costs, and explore all feasible funding options to meet facility needs. Policy S 3.1.3: Require adequate fire flow as a condition of approval for all new development, which may include installation of additional reservoir capacity and/or distribution facilities. Objective S 3.2: Provide for the specialized needs of fire protection services in both urban and wildland interface areas. Policy S 3.2.1: Identify areas of the Santa Clarita Valley that are prone to wildland fire hazards, and address these areas in fire safety plans. Policy S 3.2.2: Enforce standards for maintaining defensible space around structures through clearing of dry brush and vegetation. Policy S 3.2.3: Establish landscape guidelines for fire -prone areas with recommended plant materials, and provide this information to builders and members of the public. Policy S 3.2.4: Require sprinkler systems, fire resistant building materials, and other construction measures deemed necessary to prevent loss of life and property from wildland fires. Policy S 3.2.5: Ensure adequate secondary and emergency access for fire apparatus, which includes minimum requirements for road width, surface material, grade, and staging areas. Policy S 3.2.6: For areas adjacent to the National Forest, cooperate with the United States Forest Service regarding land use and development issues. Policy S 3.2.7: Continue to provide information and training to the public on fire safety in wildland interface areas. Objective S 3.3: Maintain acceptable emergency response times throughout the planning area. Policy S 3.3.1: Plan for fire response times of five minutes in urban areas, eight minutes in suburban areas, and 12 minutes in rural areas. Policy S 3.3.2: Require the installation and maintenance of street name signs on all new development. Policy S 3.3.3: Require the posting of address numbers on all homes and businesses that are clearly visible from adjacent streets. S-43 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan Hazardous Materials Goal S 4: Protection of public safety and property from hazardous materials. Objective S 4.1: Identify sites that are contaminated with chemicals and other hazardous materials, and promote clean-up efforts. Policy S 4.1.1: Continue to support clean-up efforts and re -use plans for the Whittaker- Berm ite property. Policy S 4.1.2: Coordinate with other agencies to address contamination of soil and groundwater from hazardous materials on various sites, and require that contamination be cleaned up to the satisfaction of the City and other responsible agencies prior to issuance of any permits for new development. Objective S 4.2: Cooperate with other agencies to ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials. Policy S 4.2.1: On the Land Use Map, restrict the areas in which activities that use or generate large amounts of hazardous materials may locate, to minimize impacts to residents and other sensitive receptors in the event of a hazardous materials incident. Policy S 4.2.2: Through the development review process, ensure that any new development proposed in the vicinity of a use that stores or generates large amounts of hazardous materials provides adequate design features, setbacks, and buffers to mitigate impacts to sensitive receptors in the event of a hazardous materials incident. Policy S 4.2.3: Require businesses to verify procedures for storage, use, and disposal of hazardous materials. Policy S 4.2.4: Cooperate with other agencies to hold regular events to promote safe disposal of small amounts of household hazardous waste, including e- waste, by Santa Clarita Valley residents. Law Enforcement Goal S 5: Protection of public safety through the provision of law enforcement services and crime prevention strategies. Objective S 5.1: Cooperate with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's plans for expansion of facility space to meet current and future law enforcement needs in the Santa Clarita Valley. Policy S 5.1.1: Participate in a multi -jurisdictional task force to evaluate alternatives for combining public safety services with administrative services within a centralized government complex serving the entire Santa Clarita Valley. DRAFT May, 2011 S-44 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety Policy S 5.1.2: Provide staff assistance to assess future law enforcement needs, and work together with the County, Sheriff's Department, and other partners to develop and implement plans for meeting these needs. Policy S 5.1.3: Cooperate on implementation of funding mechanisms for law enforcement services. Objective S 5.2: Cooperate with the Sheriff's Department on crime prevention programs to serve residents and businesses. Policy S 5.2.1: Promote and participate in the Business Watch program to assist business owners in developing and implementing crime prevention strategies. Policy S 5.2.2: Promote and support Neighborhood Watch programs to assist residents in establishing neighborhood crime prevention techniques. Policy S 5.2.3: Provide code enforcement services to maintain minimum health and safety standards and as a deterrent to crime. Accidents Goal S 6: Reduced risk to public safety and property damage from accidental occurrences. Objective S 6.1: Reduce damage from high winds through effective urban forest management. Policy S 6.1.1: Continue tree trimming and maintenance programs for trees in the right-of-way and on public property, to limit damage from falling limbs. Policy S 6.1.2: Promote the planting of tree types appropriate to the local climate, to avoid breakage by brittle, non-native trees. Objective S 6.2: Increase public safety through the design of public facilities and urban spaces. Policy S 6.2.1: In designing or reviewing development plans, ensure that lighting levels are adequate to provide safe and secure nighttime use of each site, while limiting excessive or unnecessary light and glare. Policy S 6.2.2: In reviewing development plans, consider Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles to increase public safety through establishing defensible space, clearly delineated public and private areas, and effective surveillance of common areas. Policy S 6.2.3: In designing or reviewing development plans, ensure that pedestrian pathways, stairs, steps and ramps are designed to provide clear and unimpeded passage in order to avoid trip hazards and conflicts with vehicles. Policy S 6.2.4: Continue to monitor traffic accident data in order to evaluate and address any traffic control needs to enhance public safety. S-45 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan Policy S 6.2.5: Use traffic calming devices and reduced street widths to slow traffic speeds and reduce accidents, where deemed appropriate. Objective S 6.3: Provide for the safety of disadvantaged persons. Policy S 6.3.1: In cooperation with other agencies, ensure adequate shelter for homeless persons to limit their exposure to accidental injury and illness. Policy S 6.3.2: Implement the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure safe travel paths and accommodations for persons with disabilities. Objective S 6.4: Minimize damage resulting from aircraft accidents near Agua Dulce Airpark. Policy S 6.4.1: Support efforts by Los Angeles County to require all new development in the vicinity of the Agua Dulce Airpark to comply with the County's Airport Land Use Plan and applicable Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. Emergency Planning Goal S 7: Protection of the public through planning for disaster response and recovery, in order to minimize damage from emergency incidents or terrorist activities. Objective S 7.1: Maintain and implement plans and procedures to prepare for disaster response and terrorist activities. Policy S 7.1.1: Regularly update emergency preparedness and response plans that are consistent with State plans. Policy S 7.1.2: Continue to provide regular training to public officials and the public on emergency procedures. Policy S 7.1.3: Ensure that evacuation routes are clearly posted throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. Policy S 7.1.4: Strengthen communication and cooperation between agencies, citizens and non-profit groups to plan for disaster response. Objective S 7.2: Plan for ways to minimize economic and social disruption, and expedite recovery from emergency incidents. Policy S 7.2.1: In cooperation with other agencies, plan for temporary shelters for residents displaced by disasters and emergency incidents. Policy S 7.2.2: Plan for expedited plan check, permitting, and inspection programs to aid recovery efforts involving the rebuilding of damaged structures. Policy S 7.2.3: Ensure that proper record -keeping procedures are in place for purposes of obtaining reimbursement from State and federal agencies. DRAFT May, 2011 S-46 City of Santa Clarita General Plan Safety Policy S 7.2.4: Purchase disaster and recovery supplies locally to assist local businesses in their recovery efforts. PART 3: IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SAFETY ELEMENT The City of Santa Clarita will implement the goals, objectives and policies of the Safety Element of the City of Santa Clarita Valley General Plan through the following actions: On the Land Use Map, designate areas that are subject to potential damage from natural or man-made hazards for appropriate land uses, such as open space or low -density residential, in order to reduce exposure of persons and property to hazardous conditions. 2. Revise the City's Unified Development Code and other development -related ordinances as needed to ensure consistency with the goals and policies of the Safety Element. 3. Through the review process for new discretionary development applications, require consistency with the goals and policies of the Safety Element, including requirements to mitigate hazards from seismic, geotechnical, soils, flooding, fire, crime, or other unsafe conditions as appropriate. 4. Update master plans for drainage, streets, emergency services, and other City infrastructure and facilities as needed to conform with the goals and policies of the Safety Element. 5. Update the City's Capital Improvement Program as appropriate to incorporate capital projects needed to implement goals and policies of the Safety Element, such as drainage and street improvements. 6. As part of the annual General Plan review process, conduct an annual review of the Safety Element, along with other General Plan elements, to determine compliance, and file a report with the California Office of Planning and Research and Department of Community Development pursuant to Government Code Section 65400(a) (2). 7. Ensure that any acquisition of real property for public use is consistent with the Safety Element and other General Plan elements, pursuant to Government Code Section 65402. 8. In cooperation with the County, implement compatible policies and guidelines for hillside development within the Santa Clarita Valley, to protect the public from landslides and other geotechnical hazards. 9. In cooperation with the County, implement compatible policies and guidelines for flood control and drainage improvements, to protect the public from regional and local flooding (including dam inundation). 10. In cooperation with the County, implement compatible policies for wildland fire safety, including but not limited to fuel reduction and defensible space, building materials and design, emergency access and evacuation routes, and fire flow requirements, to protect the public from wildfires. 11. Ensure compliance with seismic safety standards through plan review and inspection procedures on all new construction, pursuant to adopted codes and ordinances. S-47 DRAFT May, 2011 Safety City of Santa Clarita General Plan 12. Review any proposed General Plan Amendments to ensure compliance with applicable goals and policies of the Safety Element; coordinate this review with the County as appropriate. 13. Monitor effectiveness of the Safety Element in achieving the goals of protecting property, public health, and safety; initiate amendments thereto as needed to meet changing conditions, needs, and policies, coordinating such amendments with the County as appropriate. 14. Continue implementing emergency preparedness plans and procedures, updating them as needed and providing training to staff and the general public on emergency preparedness, response, and recovery. 15. Continue to cooperate with the County and other agencies as needed to respond to emergencies throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. 16. Cooperate with the County Fire Department in its efforts to plan for and construct new fire station facilities within the Santa Clarita Valley, which may include coordination on determining appropriate locations and evaluating various funding mechanisms for new facilities and services. 17. Cooperate with the County Sheriff's Department in its efforts to plan for expansion of law enforcement services to serve the Santa Clarita Valley, which may include coordination on determining appropriate station locations and evaluating various funding mechanisms for new facilities and services. 18. Continue cooperating with the County and other appropriate entities on control of hazardous substances, addressing the safe use, storage, and disposal of hazardous substances as appropriate. 19. Continue implementing the City's urban forestry maintenance program, to reduce potential hazards from falling tree limbs. 20. Continue maintenance programs for street pavement, traffic control, and directional signage, in order to ensure maximum safety for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians on City roadways. DRAFT May, 2011 S-48