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HomeMy WebLinkAbout; North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Access Rd; North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Access Rd; 1999-07-01In MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECIARATION EOR THE NORTH AGUA HEDIONDA INTERCEPTOR SEWER MAINTENANCE ACCESS ROAD CMWD ff98-104 Prep^ared for: City Of Carlsbad c/o Carlsbad Municipal Water District 5950 El Camino Real Carlsbad, CA 92008 Contact: Kelly J. Efimoff, P.E. Prepared by: DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. Professional Teams for Complex Projecis 605 Third Street Encinitas, CA 92024 Contact: Sherri L. Miller Tel: (760) 94Z~5U7 July 1999 Table Of Contents Section Pa^e No. 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1 1.1 Project Need and Objectives 1 1.2 Summary of Project Description 1 1.3 Authority to Prepare a Mitigated Negative Declaration 1 1.4 Other Agencies That May Use the Negative Declaration and Preliminary Environmental Review 2 1.5 Public Review Process 2 2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 4 2.1 Project Location 4 2.2 Project Need 4 2.3 Project Characteristics 4 3.0 FINDINGS 9 3.1 No Significant Effect Finding 9 3.2 Mitigation Measures and Monitoring Program 11 4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM 13 5.0 DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 23 5.1 Aesthetics 23 5.2 Agriculture Resources 23 5.3 Air Ouality 24 5.4 Biological Resources 25 5.5 Cultural Resources 28 5.6 Geology and Soils 30 5.7 Hazards and Hazardous Materials 32 5.8 Hydrology and Water Quality 34 5.9 Land Use and Planning 36 5.10 Mineral Resources 37 5.11 Noise 38 5.12 Population and Housing 39 5.13 Public Services 40 5.14 Recreation 40 5.15 Transportation and Traffic 41 5.16 Utilities and Service Systems 42 5.17 Mandatory Findings of Significance 44 5.18 References 45 July 1999 DUDEK ,&ASSOCIATES, INC. —" , North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 2088-01 Table Of Contents Section Page No. LIST or riGLRES Figure 1 Regional Map Figure 2 Vicinity Map DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, IWC July 1999 2088-01 NorUi Agua IHedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road Z SECTION 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 PROJECT NEED AND OBJECTIVES The Carlsbad Municipal Water District (District) is proposing to reconstruct the North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road between Cove Drive and Hoover Street. Reconstruction of this road would involve replacing the existing roadway as well as constructing an erosion protection structure to ensure the safety of the existing 24-inch gravity sewer Ene which is currently located beneath the existing roadway. Since construction of the sewer line and original maintenance access road in 1965, tidal action has eroded the majority of the road and exposed a section of the sewer line. Since construction in 1965, a private volleyball court has been built over the District's sewer easement near the eastern terminus of the project corridor; an existing manhole lies within the volleyball court. In order to improve access to the sewer line, the District proposes to relocate approximately 300 feet of the sewer line under the volleyball court, including relocation of a manhole. The District also proposes to relocate approximately 300 feet of sewer Hne at the eastern project terminus; the existing sewer line in this area lies within a private driveway for an apartment building, also constructed since 1965. In order to aEow access to the sewer line for maintenance and repairs, the District would relocate a portion of the sewer line to the west of the private driveway. Both areas of relocation would occur within the District's existing right-of-way. 1.2 SUMMARY OF PROJECT DESCRIPTION The maintenance access road would be approximately 12 feet wide and approximately 2,500 feet long. The erosion protection structure would consist of a 1,800-foot long riprap gabion or stone block (actual material to be determined at a later date) wall to protect the reconstructed access road and sewer line in areas where excessive erosion has occurred. In addition, approximately 600 linear feet of sewer line would be relocated in order to improve District access to the pipeline for preventative routine maintenance and repairs. 1.3 AUTHORITY TO PREPARE A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION The City of Carlsbad (City) is the lead CEQA agency responsible for the planning and restoration of the proposed maintenance access road. Based on the findings of the PreHminary Environmental Review Checklist, the City has made the determination that a Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) is the appropriate environmental document to be prepared in compliance with CEQA. As provided for by CEQA Section 21064.5, an MND may be prepared for a project subject to CEQA DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 PntffssjfJial Trim for Complex Pmjecis North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road Seaion 1.0 Introduction when an Initial Study has identified potentially significant effects on the environment, but revisions in the project have been made to clearly reduce the impacts to less than significant. This draft MND has been prepared by the City as the lead agency and in conformance with Section 15070, subsection (a), of the State of California CuideEnes. The purpose of the MND and the Initial Checklist/Environmental Evaluation is to determine the potential significant impacts associated with the proposed project and incorporate mitigation measures into the project design as necessary to reduce or eliminate the significant or potentially significant effects of the project (see Section 3, Proposed Finding of No Significant Effect, and Mitigation Measures and Monitoring Program). 1.4 OTHER AGENCIES THAT MAY USE THE NEGATIVE DECIARATION AND PRELIMINARY ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW This MND is intended to be used by responsible and trustee agencies that may have review authority over the project. The City will obtain all permits as required by law. Based on the analysis in Sections 4 and 5 of this document, other responsible agencies with jurisdiction over the proposed project include: the California Department of Fish and Game, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, the California Coastal Commission and the United States Army Corps of Engineers. 1.5 PUBUC REVIEW PROCESS In accordance with CEQA, a good faith effort has been made during the preparation of this MND to contact affected agencies and organizations who may have an interest in this project. This MND has been distributed to the following organizations: • California Coastal Commission • California Department of Fish and Game • California Native Plant Society • California State Clearinghouse • Nature Conservancy • San Diego Museum of Natural History • San Diego Audubon Society • San Diego Association of Governments • Sierra Club • State of California Regional Water Quality Control Board • Surfrider Foundation • United States Fish and Wildlife Service • United States Army Corps of Engineers DUDEK &ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 Pjofftntmid Team /nr Complex Pwjfcts North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road Section 1.0 Introduction A good faith effort has also been made during preparation of this MND to contact affected property owners and private citizens who may have an interest in the project. This MND has been distributed to the following citizens and property owners: • Jann N. Sarkaria • Florence L. Mellgren • The McCarver Trust • Daljit S. and Elaine Sarkaria • Frank N. and Carma J. Tomlinson • Stacy Trainon Gilligan • Bank of Commerce Trust, Et. Al. • Gene A. and Inger J. Huber • VIP Partners • Elinor S. Knox • Steven P. and Maureen Cade • Carlsbad Boat Club • Jose's Baja Grill When reviewing the MND, affected public agencies and the interested public should focus on the sufficiency of the document in identifying and analyzing the possible impacts on the environment and ways in which the significant effects of the project are proposed to be avoided or mitigated. Comments may be made on the MND in writing before the end of the comment period. A 45-day review and comment period from , 1999 has been established in accordance with Section 15072(a) of the CEQA Guidelines. Following the close of the public comment period, the City will consider this MND and comments thereto in determining whether to approve the proposed project. Written comments on the MND should be sent to the following address by 5:00 P.M., 1999. Comments should address the accuracy and sufficiency of the MND. City of Carlsbad c/o Carlsbad Municipal Water District 5950 El Camino Reai Carlsbad, CA 92008 Contact: Ms. Kelly J. Efimoff P.E. July 1999 2088-01 DUDEK .& ASSOCIATES. INC.] —^— Pu>fi.,onai T«^.f>. c.^pu. Pr^.i, Nofth Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road to SECTION 2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 2.1 PROJECT LOCATION As shown in Figure 1, Regional Map, the project is located along the northern bank of Agua Hedionda Lagoon within the City of Carlsbad. Figure 1, Vicinity Map, illustrates the location of the project site between Cove Drive and Hoover Street. 2.2 PROJECT NEED The North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer and Maintenance Access Road was constructed in 1965. Since that time, significant tidal action has eroded the access road, rendering it unusable, and exposing a portion of the 24-inch gravity sewer pipeline which is located beneath the access road. Since construction in 1965, a private volleyball court has been built over the District's sewer easement near the eastern terminus of the project corridor; an existing manhole lies within the volleyball court. In order to improve access to the sewer line, the District proposes to relocate approximately 300 feet of the sewer line under the volleyball court, including relocation of a manhole. The District also proposes to relocate approximately 300 feet of sewer line at the eastern project terminus; the existing sewer line in this area lies within the private driveway of an apartment building, also constructed since 1965. In order to improve access to the sewer line, the District would relocate a portion of the sewer line to the west of the private driveway. Both areas of relocation would occur within the District's existing right-of-way. 2.3 PROJECT CHARACTERISTICS The District proposes to reconstruct an access road along the northern bank of Agua Hedionda Lagoon between Cove Drive and Hoover Street. The road would be approximately 12 feet wide and approximately 2,500 feet long. Also proposed is an 1,800-foot riprap gabion or stone block wall to protect the access road and sewer line in areas where excessive erosion has occurred (see biological Resources Map in map pocket). The exact type of reinforcement wall material wiE be determined at a later stage of design. Since installation of the sewer pipeline and road in 1965, a private sand volleyball court has been constructed over the District's easement. This volleyball court is impeding District access for purposes of regular maintenance of the sewer pipeline; the District therefore proposes to relocate approximately 300 linear feet of the existing sewer pipeline. A portion of the existing sewer line at the eastern project terminus lies within a private driveway. In order to improve access to the sewer DUDEK July 1999 2088-01 & ASSOCIATES. INC.I ^^^^^^^^^^^^^=^1^^^^^^^^^^=^;^^^^^^=^^^^^^^^ pr.fruio„^ Tea^fn, Compu. Noflh AguB HedlondH Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 4 Orange County San Diego Imperial Beach Mexico 1"-8 Miles Tijuana North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road Mitigated Negative Declaration Regional Map FIGURE BASE MAP SOURCE: USGS 7.5 Minute Series, San Luis Rey Quadrangle r =2000' North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road Mitigated Negative Declaration Vicinity Map FIGURE IttI Section 2.0 Project Description line, the District would relocate approximately 300 feet of the sewer line to the west of the private driveway. Both areas of relocation would occur within the District's existing right-of-way. Biological studies conducted by Dudek & Associates (DUDEK) in the winter and spring of 1998-99 found that the site is characterized by an intertidal zone, wetlands and upland habitats including five native habitat types: southern coastal salt marsh, disturbed southern coastal salt marsh, intertidal mudflats, intertidal rocky beach and coastal sage scrub; and three non-native habitat types: ruderal, disturbed habitat and ornamental plantings; and developed land. Project construction is expected to last up to 90 days and would be conducted between August 15 and February 15 in order to avoid impacts to sensitive bird species. Under normal circumstances, no work would be conducted within the coastal zone during the rainy season; however, due to the seasonal restrictions associated with the sensitive bird species near the project corridor, this may not be possible. In the event that work would be conducted during the rainy season, Best Management Practices (BMPs) would be employed in accordance with the requirements of the RWQCB in order to ensure that soil erosion does not occur during construction. During construction, some grading of topsoil would occur landward of the access road in order to create 2:1 slopes designed to prevent erosion post-construction; however, substantial loss of topsoil would not result from project implementation. Upon completion of the proposed project, the erosion protection structure would strengthen the shoreline, reducing further erosion of the banks of the lagoon. Reconstruction of the maintenance access road, construction of the erosion protection structure and relocation of pipeline may include the following equipment: cranes, excavators, front end loaders, delivery (dump) trucks, soil compactors, pumps for dewatering, desilting tanks and/or graders. The District would first remove existing vegetation along the project corridor, then excavate along the shorehne in order to install the erosion protection structure. After backfilling behind the structure, the District would grade the roadbed, compact the soils and install the road surface aggregate. Relocation of the existing sewer line in the vicinity of the eastern project terminus would be accomplished via open trenching. The City will serve as the lead agency for the preparation of the Mitigated Negative Declaration in accordance with the CEQA. Discretionary actions addressed in the document include approval of improvement plans for the proposed project by the District. Future actions for which this MND may be used include: 1) Issuance of a Section 1603 Streambed Alteration Agreement by the California Department of Fish and Game; 2) Issuance of a Section 404 Individual Permit by the United States Department of Army Corps of Engineers; DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 r«™/,, Q>mi.u. North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road m Section 2.0 Project Description 3) Implementation of the 4(D) Rule by the City of Carlsbad; 4) Issuance of a Coastal Development Permit by the California Coastal Commission; 5) Issuance of a Section 401 Certification by the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board; 6) Issuance of a City of Carlsbad Special Use Permit for construction within the lOO-year flood zone. DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 Pr,.M«...,T^^/nro,.i^i^.>s Noflh Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road SECTION 3.0 riNDINGS The City finds that the project wiU not have a significant adverse effect on the environment based on the results of the Initial Study Environmental Checklist {see Section 4) and the Environmental Evaluation Discussion {see Section 5). Some potentially significant effects have been identified and mitigation measures have been incorporated into the project to ensure that these effects remain at less than significant levels. A Mitigated Negative Declaration is therefore proposed to satisfy the requirements of CEQA (PRC 21000 et. seq. 14 Gal Code Regs. 15000 et. seq.). This conclusion is supported by the following: 3.1 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 7. NO SIGNIFICANT EFFECT FINDING Aesthetics. The proposed project would have a less than significant impact to aesthetics. Post-construction contours of the shoreline would not differ significantly from the pre-construction shoreline contours and the proposed project would not create substantial light or glare (see Section ^.1, Aesthetics). Agricultural Resources. No impacts to farmland, or land zoned for agricultural use, would result from the proposed project (see Section 5-2, Agricultural Resources). Air Quality. Due to the short amount of time required for construction as well as the smaE amount of movement of earth (particulate matter less than 10 microns in size [PMioD which would be generated, a less than significant impact to local air quaEty would occur (see Section Air Quality). Biological Resources, Measures have been incorporated into the project to reduce potential impacts to biological resources to below a level of significance (see Sections S.Z, Mitigation Measures and Monitoring Program, and Section 54, Biological Resources). Cultural Resources. Measures have been incorporated into the project to reduce potential impacts to cultural resources to below a level of significance (see Sections 3.2, Mitigation Measures and Monitoring Program, and Section 5.5, Cultural Resources). Geology and Soils. The project would not create a hazard to surrounding land uses due to geologic problems associated with seismic activity (see Section 5-4 Geology and Soils). DUDEK & ASSOCIATES. INC. July 1999 2088-01 ft,/'"™"! r^mA- con^i^ /^a^. Norfh Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road k Section 3.0 Findings 8. Hazards and Hazardous Materials. The project corridor is not located within the vicinity of a school, or a public or private airstrip. The project would not expose people or structures to a significant risk of hazard due to wEdland fires or interference with an adopted emergency plan. Due to the minimal amount of construction equipment coupled with the brief construction phase, it is anticipated that no risk of exposure to hazardous substances would occur as a result of project implementation (see Section 5-7/ Hazards and Hazardous Materials). 9. 10. 11 12. 13. 14, Hydrology and Water Quality. The project would not result in inundation by seiche, tsunami or mudflow, nor expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding. Through implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs), project impacts to existing drainage patterns, stormwater drainage systems and water quality would be less than significant (see Section 5-8, Hydrology and Water Quality). Land Use and Planning. Implementation of the proposed project would not physically divide an estabHshed community. The project corridor is, however, located within Focus Planning Area (FPA) Core 4 of the Draft Habitat Management Plan (HMP) for Natural Communities in the City of Carlsbad. No features of the project as proposed with mitigation would preclude or conflict with implementation of the HMP (see Sections %4, Biological Resources, and 5-9, Land Use and Planning). Mineral Resources. The project would not require energy or mineral resources during operation (see Section 5.'10, Mineral Resources). Noise. Due to the limited number of daily construction vehicle trips, as well as the short duration of construction activities, a less than significant impact would occur to sensitive noise receptors. Post-construction, one maintenance vehicle trip per year is anticipated, generating less than significant noise levels (see Section 5-'t1, Noise). Population and Housing. The project would not affect local housing availability or population trends (see Section 5-'lZ, Population and Housing). Public Services. Project implementation would not result in increased needs for pubEc services and would therefore have a less than significant effect on local public services (see Section 5.-/3, Public Services). 15. Recreation. The proposed project would not affect existing recreational use of Agua Hedionda Lagoon nor use of neighborhood parks (see Section 5. Recreation). DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 p™/™r™«i Teams fur c^«pi.x Pr^u Motth AQUB Hedlonda Interceptor SewH- Maintenance Access Road 10 Section 3.0 Findings 1 6. Transportation and Traffic. Due to the limited number of daily construction vehicle ll trips, as well as the short duration of construction activities, a less than significant impact would occur to local transportation systems. Post-construction, one maintenance vehicle trip per year is anticipated (see Section 5-15, Transportation and Traffic). fa mm 17. Utilities and Service Systems, Due to the lack of utilities required for project ^ operation, project implementation would not affect local utilities and service systems (see Section 5-'l6, Utilities and Service Systems). - 3.2 MITIGATION MEASURES AND MONITORING PROGRAM ^ The City has summarized here the various requirements to be imposed on the project to reduce impacts to less than significant. wm M ^ Biological Resources Focused surveys were conducted for the coastal California gnatcatcher {Polioptila californica) within the coastal sage scrub both inside and immediately adjacent to the proposed project corridor. A pair ^ of coastal CaHfornia gnatcatchers was heard within the coastal sage scrub immediately adjacent to the project corridor. Implementation of the proposed project would result in temporary impacts to 0.29 acre and permanent impacts to 0.34 acre of coastal sage scrub. mm ^ In order to mitigate for the loss of coastal sage scrub, habitat of the coastal California gnatcatcher, the foUowing mitigation measures shaU be implemented: I"" • Temporary impacts to coastal sage scrub would result from the grading of slopes during ^ reconstruction of the maintenance access road. These impacts shall be mitigated at a ratio of 1:1 as the temporarEy impacted 0.29 acre would be hydroseeded with a coastal sage scrub vegetation mix. Permanent impacts to 0.34 acre of coastal sage scrub shall be iM mitigated through preservation of 0.68 acre of coastal sage scrub at the Lake Calavera ^ mitigation bank. Moreover, construction shaE not occur during the breeding season of the CaHfornia gnatcatcher. mm The proposed project would result in permanent impacts to 0.11 acre of southern coastal salt marsh, 0.08 acre of disturbed southern coastal salt marsh, 0.01 acre of intertidal rocky beach and 0.06 acre of intertidal mudflat. Impacts to the shoreHne habitats would require permits from the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) and the Regional p» Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB). DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 7h,«./.r o.«pi^ North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 11 IP ii pi li Section 3.0 Findings In order to mitigate for impacts to 0.19 acre of southern coastal salt marsh and disturbed southern coastal salt marsh, the following mitigation measure shaU be implemented: • The City shall create, at a ratio of 3:1, 0.57 acre of coastal salt marsh wetlands within Agua Hedionda Lagoon. Three feasible alternative mitigation sites have been identified along the southern banks of the lagoon. In order to mitigate for impacts to 0.07 acre of intertidal rocky beach and intertidal mudflat, the foHowing mitigation measures shaH be implemented: • The City shaH create, at a ratio of 3:1, 0.21 acre of intertidal mudflat within Agua Hedionda Lagoon. Three feasible alternative mitigation sites have been identified along the southern banks of the lagoon. ^ Cultural Resources No known paleontological or historical resources have been identified along the project corridor, although the possibHity of encountering unknown paleontological or historical sites does exist. One prehistoric site has been recorded adjacent to the proposed project corridor. The integrity of the site was reported as poor and portions of the site are occupied by private residences and City of Carlsbad infrastructure {e.g., roadways and utHity lines). The majority of the proposed project would occur within previously or currently developed areas. To mitigate for the possibility of encountering paleontological, prehistoric or archaeological resources, however, the foHowing mitigation measure shaH be implemented: • Monitoring shaH be performed during aH new excavation activities, which are to occur along slopes with gradients steeper than 2:1. In the event that an artifact or site is revealed during new excavation activities, grading shaH be stopped immediately and a qualified archaeologist and/or qualified paleontologist shaH conduct further study to determine the significance of an artifact or site. DUDEK &ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 Pmffs.\imnii Team for Complex Pmjecii North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 12 w SECTION 4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL CIIECKLIST FORM 1. Project title: North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 2. Lead agency name and address: c/o Carlsbad Municipal Water District 5950 El Camino Real Carlsbad. California 92008 3. Contact person and phone number: Kelly T. Efimoff. P.E. (760 438-33367 ext. 7124 4. Project location: City of Carlsbad, northern shoreline of Agua Hedionda Lagoon, between Hoover Street and Cove Drive 5. Project sponsor's name and address: Carlsbad Municipal Water District 5950 El Camino Real Carlsbad. California 92008 6. General plan designation: Residential, travel/recreation commercial, open space and species resource area 7. Zoning: Low to medium density residential, high density residential, travel/recreation commercial, open space 8. Description of project: (Describe the whole action involved, including but not limited to later phases of the project, and any secondary, support, or offsite features necessary for its implementation. Attach additional sheets if necessary.) Reconstruction of the North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road between Cove Drive and Hoover Street, construction of an erosion protection structure and relocation of a portion of the existing sewer pipeline. The road would be approximately 12 feet wide and approximately 2.500 feet long. The 1.800-foot long erosion protection structure would consist of riprap gabions or concrete block (to be determined at a later date) and would protect the access road and existing 24-inch sewer line from erosion where excessive erosion has occurred. Approximately 200 linear feet of existing sewer pipeline would be relocated at the southern terminus of the project corridor. DUDEK July 1999 2088-01 ^ASSOCIATES, INC.. m/™™«/T«,«.>rCo»,^tpr»i«o North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 13 tti Section 4 Environmental Checklist Form 9. Surrounding land uses and setting: Briefly describe the project's surroundings: The project is located in the City of Carlsbad and the County of San Diego. The project follows the northern bank of Agua Hedionda Lagoon. Surrounding land uses include undeveloped open space, residential properties and recreational commercial properties. 10. Other public agencies w^hose approval is required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation agreement.) California Department of Fish and Game: 1601 Streambed Alteration Agreement U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Individual Permit pursuant to section 404 of the federal Clean Water Act Regional Water Quality Control Board: Section 401 Certification or Waiver California Coastal Commission: Coastal Development Permit ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: The environmental factors checked below would be potentiaUy affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. m • Aesthetics • Agricultural Resources • Air Quality mm Biological Resources Cultural Resources • Geology/ Soils m • Hazards & Hazardous Materials n Hydrology/ Water Quality • Land Use/ Planning MM • Mineral Resources • Noise • Population/ Housing IM • Public Services • Recreation • Transportation/ Traffic am • Utilities/ Service Systems • Mandatory Findings of Significance DETERMINATION: (To be completed by the Lead Agency) On the basis of this initial evaluation: O I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. LH I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there wiU not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. DUDEK &ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 P™/™™«; 7™m,/„ co^pui pnyca North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 14 il Section 4 Environmental Checklist Form • • I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentiaUy significant impact" or "potentiaHy significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. LH I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the envirorunent, because aU potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earUer EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. Signature Date Printed name For DUDEK July 1999 .&AS50CUTES, INC.I i p,„f^im<,ni«msfora,mpuxP^<s North AguB Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 2088-01 15 m Section 4 Environmental Checklist Form Issues Potentially Significant Impact less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact I. AESTHETICS - Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? b) Substantially damage scHiic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? II. AGRICULTURE RESOURCES - In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the Califomia Department of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. Would the project: a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the Califomia Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use? b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? c) Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use? Ill- AIR QUALITY - Where available, the significance criteria established hy the applicable air quality management or air pollution district may be relied upon to make the following determinations. Would the project: a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation? c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)? d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people? • • • O • • • • • n • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • n • • • • • DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 7™™,^r Couple. Pmi«u North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 2088-01 16 m m k Section 4 Environmental Checklist Form Issues Less Than Significant Potentially With Significant Mitigation Impact Incorporated Less Than Significant No Impact Impact IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES - Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat Q modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other smsitive • natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or hy the Califomia Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? c) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Q Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d) Interfere suhstantially with the movem«it of any native resident or migratory fish Q or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinance protecting blologicai resources, such Q as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Q Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? V. CULTURAL RESOURCES - Would the project: a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as Q defined in §15064.5? b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological Q resource pursuant to § 15064.5? c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique Q geologic feature? d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal Q cemeteries? VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS - Would the project: a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury or death involving: I) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Q Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42. ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? • • • • • • • • • • • n • • • • • • • • • n • • • DUDEK July 1999 & ASSOCIATES. INC.I • ft,/«,™«i Teomsfa. o,„pu. i^«u North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 2088-01 17 m Section 4 Environmental Checklist Form mm. m m m m Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact m iii] Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? • • • mm iv) Landslides? • • • m b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsail? • • • m 0 Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on- or offsite landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? • • • «• m d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B ofthe Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property? • • • m m e) VII. Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater? HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS - Would the oroiect: • • • HI m a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment throug^i the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? • • • m b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? • • • - 0 Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? • • • mm d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? • • • Mi e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public aiqiort or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? • • • f) For project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? • • n IS m s) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? • • m h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to uAanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands? • • • IS! VIII. HYDROLOGY AND WATER DUALITY - Would the oroiect: tm a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements? • • IS • Mk m DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 Prcfi^f^^i Tt«v^f^ o,:npkx Ptr^is North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road Section 4 Environmental Checklist Form Issues Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact b) Substantially deplete growidwater supplies or Interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer vohime or a lowering of the local groundwater table level {e.g., the production rate of pre- existing nearhy wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or offsite? d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattem of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or sid)stantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff rn a manner which would result in flooding on- or offsite? e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? g) Place housing within a 10O-year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? h) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect flood flows? I) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam? j) Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? IX. LAND USE AND PLANNING - Would the project: a) Physically divide an established community? b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan? X. MINERAL RESOURCES - Would the project: a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally-important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? • • • • • • • • • • n n • • • • • • • • • • • • • n • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • DUDEK &ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 pn,f»>«,„«i Team fir co»pux Frnjetis Noflh AQUZ Hedlonda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 2088-01 19 k Section 4 Environmental Checklist Form •i Issues Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact XI. NOISE - Would the project result in: a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundbome noise levels? c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels In the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public aiiport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? i) XII. a) h) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? POPULATION AND HOUSING - Would the project: Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? c) Displace suhstantial numbers of people, necessitating the constmction of replacement housing elsewhere? XIIL PUBLIC SERVICES a) Would the project result In substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services: Fire protection? Police protection? Schools? Parks? Other public facilities? • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • n • n n • • • • • • • • • • • • • DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 ;v«ri™«i7>.™.>r^mfixft«,«(i North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 2088-01 20 m m Section 4 Environmental Checklist Form Issues Less Than Significant Potentially With Significant Mitigation Impact Incorporated Less Than Significant No Impact Impact XIV. RECREATION a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks Q or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or Q expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? XV. TRANSPORTATIONITHAFFIC - Would the proiect: a) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in relation to the existing traffic Q load and capacity of the street system (i.e., result in a substantial increase in either the number of vehicle trips, the volume to capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at intersections)? b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of service standard established Q by the County Congestion Management Agency for designated roads or highways? c) Result in a change In air traffic patterns, including either an increase in traffic Q levels or a change m location that results m substantial safety risks? d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature {e.g., sharp curves or Q dangerous interswtions} or incompatible uses {e.g., farm equipment)? e) Result in inadequate emergency access? Q f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? • g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs supporting altemative Q transportation ie.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks)? XVL UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS - Would the proiect: a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Q Quality Control Board? b) Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment Q facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the constmction of which could cause significant environmental effects? c) Require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or Q expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? • • • • • • • • n • • • • • • • • • • • n • • • DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 p^ffM n^^fir ccmpi^x pr^i. North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 2088-01 21 Mi Ml Section 4 Environmental Checklist Form Issues Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing Q entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? e) Result in determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or Q may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project's projected demand in addition to the provider/s existing commitments? f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the Q project's solid waste disposal needs? g) Comply with federat state, and local statutes and regulations related to solid Q waste? XVH. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, • substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b) Does the project have Impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively ^ considerable? {"Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other currrait projects, and the effects of probable future projects)? c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse Q effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? • n • • • • • • • • • • • • DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 Me.i^nt 7i™>, c^.^ux i-r^is Norfh Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 22 m m m SECTION 5.0 DISCL8SION or ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 5.1 AESTHETICS a. Would the project have a substantia] adverse effect on a scenic vista? Less than Significant Impact. The project would be visible from Interstate 5 (1-5), the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad, Adams Street and the Agua Hedionda Lagoon. The City of Carlsbad (City) has designated Adams Street as a scenic roadway. However, post- construction contours of the erosion control structure and reconstructed sewer maintenance access road would not differ significantly from the existing shoreline contours. The existing shoreline consists primarHy of vertical faces as would the proposed shoreline. b. Would the project substantially damage scenic resources within a state scenic highway? No Impact. The project corridor is not visible from a state scenic highway. c. Would the project substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the project site and its surroundings? Less than Significant Impact. See Section 5.'la. d. Would the project create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? No Impact. The erosion control structure and maintenance access road would be constructed of non-reflecting materials. No lighting is planned as an element of the proposed project. 5.2 AGRICULTURE RESOURCES a. Would the project convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland] to non-agricultural use? No Impact. The proposed project corridor does not contain Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland or Farmland of Statewide Importance. b. Would the project conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use or a Williamson Act contract? No Impact. The proposed project corridor is not zoned for agricultural use. DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 prpfimmai Teamfn. c.mpirx ^w™^< ^orth Agua Hedlonds Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 23 m m k Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts c. Would the project involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland to non-agricultural use? No Impact. The project corridor is not near agricultural operations. Project construction would not affect any agricultural operations. 5.3 AIR QUALITY a. Would the project conflict with or obstruct implementation ofthe applicable air quality plan? Less than Significant Impact. Project implementation would result in emissions associated with construction and construction vehicles. The Regional Air Quality Strategy for the San Diego Air Basin, which addresses state air quality regulations, and the State Implementation Plan, which addresses federal regulations, do not contain standards specific to construction- related air emissions. The San Diego Air Pollution Control District would not have jurisdictional or permit-granting authority over the project due to the lack of operational emissions (Robert Reider, San Diego Air PoHution Control District, personal communication, 3/25/99). The project would not obstruct implementation of the local air quality plan. Would the project violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to or projected air quality violation? an existing Less than Significant Impact. Short-term impacts from construction activities would be primarily associated with exhaust from construction equipment (including carbon monoxide, reactive organic compounds [ROC], nitrogen oxides [NOX], sulfur dioxide [SO2], and the movement of earth (particulate matter less than 10 microns in size [PMIQ]). The San Diego Air Basin is currently a non-attainment region for ozone according to state and federal regulations and a non-attainment region for PM^g according to state regulations. The project would contribute to these pollutant levels during construction phases. However, due to the short duration of construction as weH as the minimal amount of equipment necessary for implementation, emissions produced would be minimal and dispersed without significant effects; i.e., would not be considered substantial contributions to regional air quality problems. Would the project result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non-attainment? No Impact. Due to the insignificant level of construction-related traffic that would be associated with the proposed project, implementation of the project would not result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria poHutant. DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 'i>amfcrc<,«,pt,x ^9ua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 24 Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts d. Would the proposed project expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutants? No Impact. Due to the insignificant amount of construction-generated emissions as weH as the absence of any sensitive receptors within the project area, no impact would occur. e. Would the project create objectionable odors? No Impact. No aspect of the project would create objectionable odors. 5.4 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES a. Would the project result in substantial impacts to endangered, threatened, rare, candidate, sensitive or special status species or their habitats (including, but not limited to, plants, fish, insects, animals and birds?] Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. During the site assessment, DUDEK biologists investigated the project corridor and vicinity for the presence of habitat for listed and threatened endangered species including California least tern {Sterna antillarum hrowni), western snowy plover {Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus), brown pelican {Pelecanus occidentalis californicus), Belding's Savannah sparrow {Ammodramus sandwichensis heldingt) and light-footed clapper raH {Rallus longirostris levipes). No breeding habitat exists onsite for these five species, as discussed below and in the Biological Resources Survey Report {Appendix A), but foraging habitat exists within the open water areas of the lagoon and along the shoreline. Implementation of the proposed project would result in permanent impacts to 0.26 acre of shoreline habitat {e.g., southern coastal salt marsh and intertidal zone). The project area contains no suitable breeding habitat for the California least tern, a fairly common to common summer resident and migrant. The width of onsite intertidal mudflat and rocky beach is extremely smaE and is subject to wave action that would destroy nests. Any nest that lay outside of the intertidal zone would be subject to terrestrial and avian predation. The open water areas of the lagoon are potential foraging habitat. There is an active, managed nesting area at Batiquitos Lagoon to the south. The western snowy plover occurs in San Diego County as a winter visitor and breeding resident. As stated above, the breeding locales are restricted primarHy to beaches and dunes, areas that are similar to and often coterminous with California least tern nesting sites. Foraging areas include beaches, mudflats and sand dunes. The project area contains no suitable breeding habitat: the width of intertidal mudflat and rocky beach is extremely smaH and is subject to wave action that would destroy nests. Any nest that lay outside of the DUDEK July 1999 2088-01 .&ASSOCIATES, INC.. Pro/raimiU Hans /nr ConpUs Prnjecls North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 25 Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts m k intertidal zone would be subject to terrestrial and avian predation. The project does, however, support potential foraging habitat. This species has been recorded within Agua Hedionda Lagoon (CNDDB). The project area contains no suitable breeding habitat for the brown pelican, a migrant species that currently does not breed in the County. The open water areas of the lagoon are potential foraging habitat. Pelicans were observed south of the project corridor in open water. Belding's Savannah sparrow, a resident bird, nests in salt marshes or the margins of lagoons in low vegetation dominated by pickleweed {Salicornia sp). Pickleweed {Salicornia virginica) is present along the northern shore of Agua Hedionda, but the project corridor does not contain sufficient habitat to support nesting Belding's Savannah sparrow. It is possible that this bird occasionally uses vegetation in the project area for movement or foraging. The light-footed clapper raH is a locaHzed resident of tidal salt marshes that support large stands of cordgrass {Spartina foliosa). Cordgrass is not present within the project corridor and vegetation that could be considered alternate habitat for this animal, such as cattaH or bulrush dominated freshwater or brackish marsh, also is absent or very limited in extent. As a consequence, it is extremely unlikely that the light-footed clapper raH exists within the project area. Focused surveys were conducted for the coastal California gnatcatcher {Polioptila californica californica) within the coastal sage scrub both inside and immediately adjacent to the proposed project corridor. One breeding pair of CaHfornia gnatcatchers was heard within the coastal sage scrub immediately adjacent to the project corridor. Implementation of the proposed project would result in temporary impacts to 0.29 acre and permanent impacts to 0.34 acre of coastal sage scrub. Mitigation for impacts to coastal sage scrub is discussed below in Section 5.4h. Mitigation for impacts to shoreline habitat is discussed below in Section 5-4c. b. Would the project have a substantial adverse effect on riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The project would temporarily impact 0.29 acre and permanently impact 0.34 acre of coastal sage scrub, known to be occupied by the federally-Hsted threatened coastal California gnatcatcher. The project would not impact riparian habitat. DUDEK &ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 p™/-«,»n«( -ham^jm Pr^iecu Norfh AguB Hodionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 26 Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts In order to mitigate for the loss of coastal sage scrub, the foUowing mitigation measures shaH be implemented: • Temporary impacts to coastal sage scrub would result from the grading of slopes during reconstruction of the maintenance access road. These impacts shaH be mitigated at a ratio of 1:1 as the temporarily impacted 0.29 acre would be hydroseeded with a coastal sage scrub vegetation mix. Permanent impacts to 0.34 acre of coastal sage scrub shaH be mitigated, at a ratio of 2:1, through preservation of 0.68 acre of coastal sage scrub habitat owned by the City of Carlsbad, located along the southern shore of Agua Hedionda Lagoon. Hi c. Would the project have a substantial adverse effert on federally-protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act? Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The proposed project would result in permanent impacts to 0.11 acre of coastal salt marsh, 0.08 acre of disturbed coastal salt marsh, 0.01 acre of intertidal rocky beach and 0.06 acre of intertidal mudflat. In order to mitigate for impacts to 0.19 acre of southern coastal salt marsh and disturbed southern coastal salt marsh, the following mitigation measure shaU be implemented: • The City shaH create, at a ratio of 3:1, 0.57 acre of coastal salt marsh wetlands within Agua Hedionda Lagoon. Three feasible alternative mitigation sites have been identified along the southern banks of the lagoon. In order to mitigate for impacts to 0.07 acre of intertidal rocky beach and intertidal mudflat, the following mitigation measures shall be implemented: • The City shaH create, at a ratio of 3:1, 0.21 acre of intertidal mudflat within Agua Hedionda Lagoon. Three feasible alternative mitigation sites have been identified along the southern banks of the lagoon d. Would the project interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established wildlife dispersal or migration corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? Less than Significant Impact. The proposed project would be primarily located over the remains of the access road within the existing sewer line easement; post-construction contours of the road and erosion protection structure would therefore not differ significantly from pre-construction contours. Due to its location and surrounding residential development. DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 Teamsfnr o„npux p™,«u North Agua Hcdlonda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 27 Hi m Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts the habitat present within the project site is not connected to any substantial natural terrestrial habitat. Several small patches of coastal sage scrub occur northeast of the site but are separated by development. The beach extends along the northern shore of Agua Hedionda, terminating at a southern coastal salt marsh located at the eastern side of the lagoon. The proposed project would not directly impact the function of the intertidal zone as a wildlife linkage or migration corridor, or interfere with the movement of fish or wildlife species. Since the proposed project would be constructed only along the shoreline, which does not contain sufficient vegetation for native wildEfe nursery sites, the use of such sites would not be impeded. Would the project confiict with any local policies or ordinance protecting biological resources? f. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The project corridor is located within Focus Planning Area (FPA) Core 4 of the Draft Habitat Management Plan (HMP) for Natural Communities in the City of Carlsbad. The proposed project would not conflict with implementation of the City's HMP, at such time as the HMP is approved by the City Council and applicable resource agencies. Would the project conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan or other approved local, regional or state habitat conservation plan? Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The project corridoris located withinFPA Core 4 of the City's Draft HMP. The proposed project would not conflict with implementation of the City's HMP, at such time as the HMP is approved by the City CouncH and applicable resource agencies. 5.5 CULTURAL RESOURCES a. Would the proposed project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in § 15064.5? Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated. No known historical resources have been identified along the project corridor, although the possibHity of encountering unknown historical sites does exist. In order to mitigate for the possibHity of encountering historical resources, the following mitigation measure shall be implemented: DUDEK &ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 p^fmi.na! Team for cmpkx North AguB Hodlonda Intorceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 28 Seaion 5,0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts • Monitoring shall be performed during all new excavation activities, which are to occur along slopes with gradients steeper than 2:1. In the event that an artifact or site is revealed during new excavation activities, grading shaH be stopped immediately and a qualified archaeologist shaH conduct further study to determine the significance of an artifact or site. Would the proposed project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to § 15064.5? Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. One prehistoric site has been recorded adjacent to the proposed project corridor. The integrity of the site was reported as poor and portions of the site are occupied by private residences and City of Carlsbad infrastructure {e.g., roadways and utility Hnes). To mitigate for impacts to prehistoric resources, the foHowing mitigation measure shaH be implemented: • Monitoring shaH be performed during aE new excavation activities, which are to occur along slopes with gradients steeper than 2:1. In the event that an artifact or site is revealed during new excavation activities, grading shaH be stopped immediately and a qualified archaeologist shall conduct further study to determine the significance of an artifact or site. In order to mitigate for the possibility of encountering archaeological resources, the following mitigation measure shaH be implemented: • Monitoring shaH be performed during aH new excavation activities, which are to occur along slopes with gradients steeper than 2:1. In the event that an artifact or site is revealed during new excavation activities, grading shaH be stopped immediately and a qualified archaeologist shaH conduct further study to determine the significance of an artifact or site. Would the project directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated. No known paleontological resources have been identified along the project corridor, although the possibHity of encountering unknown paleontological sites does exist. The project corridor may contain Baypoint and Santiago formations. The Baypoint formation, dating possibly to the early Pleistocene, is a potentially sensitive paleontological resource. The Santiago formation may be a moderately DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 P™/,™™^ 7i„™>, co^^pie^ pr^u North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 29 m m Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts sensitive paleontological resource (personal communication, Hugh Wagner, Collections Manager, Department of Paleontology, San Diego Museum of Natural History, 4/1/99) In order to mitigate for the possibility of encountering paleontological resources, the foHowing mitigation measure shall be implemented: • Monitoring shall be performed during all new excavation activities, which are to occur along slopes with gradients steeper than 2:1. In the event that a fossH is revealed during new excavation activities, grading shaH be stopped immediately and a qualified paleontologist shaH conduct further study to determine the significance of an artifact or site. d. Would the project disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? Less than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated. See Sections 5. i4a, 5.14^, and 5.140. 5.6 GEOLOGY AND SOILS a. Would the project expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including risk of loss, injury or death involving: (i] Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? Less than Significant Impact. According to the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map, the nearest fault system. Rose Canyon Fault, is located approximately 20 miles south of the project site. The project is not located within the special study zone of the Rose Canyon Fault. According to the City of Carlsbad General Plan (1994), however, the project lies within four mHes of the Rose Canyon Fault. Due to the proximity of the project site to this seismic area, ground shaking and other seismic activities may occur. However, only City personnel would periodically utHize the reconstructed road. Therefore, although a seismic event may damage the proposed project, it has been determined that any impact caused through faHure of the road or erosion protection structure would not affect surrounding land uses or nearby residents. DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 i^/,,™,7«../»rc..,Ai«/^" North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 30 Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts (ii] Strong seismic ground shaking? No Impact. Project construction would not involve measures which would result in seismic ground shaking, therefore no impact would occur. (iii] Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? Less Than Significant Impact. SoUs onsite consist primarily of backHll, probably placed during construction of the original sewer maintenance access road. The fiH soHs consist of medium- dense, clayey or silty sand, with isolated patches of relatively clean sand. The natural soHs consist of medium-stiff, clayey sHt and medium-dense, clayey sand lagoon deposits. Ground failure or liquefaction could occur in conjunction with a major seismic event. However, the proj ect would only involve the movement of existing surface soHs which would not alter the underlying geologic base. The project has been designed at a 2:1 slope landward of the access road which would help to ensure structure stabHity. (iv] Landslides? Less than Significant Impact. The proposed project would not greatly alter the topography of the existing sewer easement. Landslides could potentially occur during construction in conjunction with earth moving events, but the City plans to grade during the dry season thereby decreasing the risk of surficial upset to below a level of significance. b. Would the proposed project result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Project construction is expected to last up to 90 days and would be conducted between August 15 and February 15 in order to avoid impacts to sensitive bird species. Under normal circumstances, no work would be conducted within the coastal zone during the rainy season; however, due to the seasonal restrictions associated with the sensitive bird species near the project corridor, this may not be possible. During construction, some grading of topsoH would occur landward of the access road in order to create 2:1 slopes designed to prevent erosion post-construction; however, substantial loss of topsoH would not result from project implementation. In addition. Best Management Practices (BMPs) would be employed in accordance with the requirements of the RWQCB in order to ensure that soH erosion does not occur during construction. Upon completion of the proposed project, the erosion protection structure would strengthen the shoreline, reducing further erosion of the banks of the lagoon. DUDEK &ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 Fn,je,«.md T™m./«r o,mpux Pwjecu North AguH Hedlonda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 31 m m Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts c. Would the project be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on- or offsite landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? Less Than Significant Impact. The project includes an erosion protection structure along the shoreline of the lagoon. Landward of the access road the hillside would be graded to a 2:1 slope, compacted and revegetated. Since the proposed project would only involve minimal grading, the overaH integrity of the hiHside would not be threatened. Thus, it is not anticipated that any on- or offsite land movement would occur as a result of the proposed project. d. Would the project be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1 -B of the Uniform Building Code (1994], creating substantial risks to life or property? Less than Significant Impact. SoHs onsite consist primarily of backf iH, probably placed during construction of the original sewer maintenance access road. The fHl soHs consist of medium- dense, clayey or silty sand, with isolated patches of relatively clean sand. The natural soHs consist of medium-stiff, clayey sHt and medium-dense, clayey sand lagoon deposits. However, the project would be predominantly located on imported backfiU soHs that would have a low to medium potential for creating substantial risks to surrounding land uses. In addition, the project location, as well as the minor amount of grading required for project implementation, would not place any land uses at risk to expansive soH hazards. e. Would the proposed project have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater? No Impact. Implementation of the proposed project would not result in any need for a septic tank or alternative wastewater disposal system. 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS a. Would the proposed project create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use or disposal of hazardous materials? No Impact. Due to the minimal amount of construction equipment coupled with the brief construction phase, it is anticipated that no risk of exposure to hazardous substances would occur with project implementation. DUDEK &ASSOCIATES,INC. July 1999 2088-01 Pn,j..i.«.tTeamfirCo«piexPr^u North AguB Hodlonda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 32 IM Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts Would the project create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? No impact. Due to the project's location along the shoreline of Agua Hedionda Lagoon, it is not anticipated that an emergency evacuation plan would be affected by the project during either project construction or operation. c. Would the project emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances or waste within one quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? No Impact. Refer to responses 5.7a and 5.7b. d. Would the proposed project be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Govemment Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? No Impact. Refer to responses 5.7a and 5.7b. e. For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? No Impact. The project is not located within an airport land use plan or within two miles of a public airport or public use airport. f. For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? No Impact. The project is not located within the vicinity of a private airstrip. g. Would the project impair implementation of, or physically interfere with, an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? No Impact. Due to the location of the project corridor along the shoreline of Agua Hedionda Lagoon, it is not anticipated that project implementation would impair or interfere with an emergency response plan or evacuation plan. DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 p™/™(.„„i 7^™> co^pu, pr^ecu North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 33 Ml Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts h. Would the project expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands? No Impact. The proposed access road and erosion protection structure would not expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death as related to wildland fires. 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY a. Would the project violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements? Less than Significant Impact. The existing hydrology of the project site is such that stormwater runoff sheet flows into Agua Hedionda Lagoon. Reconstruction of the access road and construction of the erosion protection structure would not alter the drainage of the project corridor but would reduce the erosion of the existing shoreline. b. Would the project substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level [e.g., the projection rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted]? No Impact. Project implementation would not result in redirection of stormwater runoff and thus would not deplete groundwater supplies or interfere with groundwater recharge. c. Would the proposed project substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on-or offsite? Less than Significant Impact. As discussed above in Section 5.8a, stormwater currently sheet flows into Agua Hedionda Lagoon. Reconstruction of the eroding access road and construction of an erosion protection structure would not alter the existing drainage pattern of the site; stormwater would stiH sheet flow into Agua Hedionda Lagoon. One minor, unvegetated stream channel passes through the project corridor. Surface flows from this channel would not be impeded by the reconstructed access road and erosion protection structure; surface flows would pass over these structures to Agua Hedionda Lagoon. im DUDEK July 1999 & ASSOCIATES, INC.I ^^^^^ = \^feMTenmSn,c^.puxPr^i. NortH AguB Hediooda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 2088-01 34 Ml Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts Would the project substantially alter the existing drainage pattem of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in fiooding on- or offsite? Less than Significant Impact. As discussed in Sections 5.8a and 5.8c, project implementation would not substantially alter the existing drainage patterns onsite or within the vicinity of the project corridor. e. Would the projert create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? Less than Significant Impact. Construction of an erosion protection structure and reconstruction of the access road would not affect existing or planned stormwater drainage systems. The project would result in a slight increase in impervious surfaces onsite, but would not result in substantial additional sources of polluted runoff. f. Would the project otherwise substantially degrade water quality? Less than Significant Impact. Through the implementation of BMPs during construction, temporary impacts to water quaUty should be very Hmited. The proposed project would strengthen the shoreline, reducing further erosion of the banks of the lagoon. g. Would the project place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? No Impact. The proposed project is limited to the reconstruction of a sewer maintenance access road and the construction of an erosion protection structure; the project does not include the development of housing. h. Would the proposed project place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect flood flows? Less than Significant Impact. See responses 5.8a, 5.8c and 5.8d. i. Would the project expose people or structures to a significant risk or loss, injury or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam? No Impact. See responses 5.8a, 5.8c and 5.8d. DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 ft,/'""""-' Complex Pr.jec, Noflh AQUB Hedlonda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 35 m m Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts Would the project result in inundation by seiche, tsunami or mudflow? No Impact. Due to the absence of volcanic activity within the project vicinity, it is not anticipated that seiche or tsunami would affect the proposed project. Due to the limited grading associate with the proposed project, and because grading would be limited to the dry- season, it is not anticipated that the project would be affected by, or cause, a mudflow. 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING a. Would the project physically divide an established community? No Impact. The proposed project would be constructed along the shoreline of Agua Hedionda Lagoon and would not limit public access to the lagoon or shoreline. b. Would the project conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program or zoning ordinance] adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? Less than Significant Impact. The proposed project is located along the northeastern shoreline of Agua Hedionda Lagoon within the City of Carlsbad. Surrounding land uses include open, undeveloped land, several private residences and two commercial endeavors to the north, east and south, and the lagoon to the west. City-designated land uses include low to medium (0-4 density units per acre) residential, high density (15 to 23 density units per acre) residential and travel/recreation commercial. None of the above land uses would be affected by the project because aH impacts would occur along the existing sewer line easement. The proposed erosion protection and reconstructed sewer maintenance access road would not be incompatible with these existing land uses. Agua Hedionda Lagoon is designated as a special resource area and zoned as open space in the City of Carlsbad General Plan (1994). This area is considered to be impact sensitive; however, the proposed project consists primarily of restoring an existing facility and is proposed in the interests of pubUc safety. Project implementation would not materially alter the designated land uses of the lagoon. Therefore, the project is consistent with goals and policies of the City's General Plan. The lagoon lies within FacHities Management Zone 1 as addressed in the City's Open Space and Conservation Resource Management Plan (1992). The proposed project does not conflict with the primary or secondary open space action priorities for this zone. DUDEK July 1999 ,&ASSOCIATES, INC.I — FW/™,™-; Tea^^f^ c.pux Pr^^i. NoflH Agus Hedlonda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 2088-01 36 Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts Agua Hedionda Lagoon is also regulated by the City's Agua Hedionda Land Use Plan and Local Coastal Program (Plan) (1982). The proposed project complies with the Coastal Act policies outlined in the Plan, as the project is essentially an erosion protection structure and wiH ensure the long-term protection of water quality within the lagoon. Moreover, the project would not impact the existing recreational uses of the lagoon, nor obstruct existing scenic vistas. c. Due to project location along the lagoon, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) and California Coastal Commission would have jurisdiction over the project. Alteration of the shoreline and impacts to tidal wetlands and the intertidal zone, as proposed in the project, would require permits from the relevant agencies discussed in Section 2.3. Would the project conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan? Less than Significant Impact. The project corridor is located within FPA Gore 4 of the City's HMP. The proposed project would not conflict with implementation of the City's HMP, at such time as the HMP is approved by the City CouncH and applicable resource agencies. The City wUl be mitigating project impacts to these habitat types in accordance with the HMP. See Sections 5-4a, 5.4h and 5-4c above. 5.10 MINERAL RESOURCES a. Would the project result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and residents of the state? No Impact. No mineral resources considered to be of value to the future of the region or state occur onsite, therefore no impact would occur. b. Would the project result in the loss of availability of a locally-important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? No impact. No locally-important mineral resource recovery site occurs onsite, therefore no impact would occur. m DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 ft»/«>™«i c««p}.x North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 37 Ml «i m m m Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts 5.11 NOISE Would the project result in exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? Less than Significant Impact. Project construction would raise current noise levels within the direct vicinity of the project. However, due to the relatively short duration and type of construction activities proposed, the increase in ambient noise levels would not be considered significant. Would the proposed project result in exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? Less than Significant Impact. See response to 5.10a. Would the project result in a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? No Impact. The ambient noise levels of the project vicinity would not be permanently impacted: one maintenance vehicle trip per year is anticipated. Would the project result in a substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? Less than Significant. Sensitive receptors, including adjacent private residences, recreational users of the lagoon and visitors to the Carlsbad Boat Club dock area could potentially be impacted by maintenance vehicle noise. Since it is estimated that City vehicles and equipment would access the roadway once a year in order to perform routine sewer line maintenance, the chance of maintenance vehicle noise contact with sensitive receptors is not anticipated to be significant. Project construction would require the use of heavy equipment and machinery. Because construction activities would be limited to the daytime and would be of short duration (less than 90 days), impacts would be less than significant. DUDEK &ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 p,„fimo^a! Team/ar Complex Pn^i. Noflh Agua Hedlooda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 38 Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts e. For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? No Impact. The project corridor is not located within an airport land use plan or within two mHes of a public airport or public use airport. f. For a project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project expose people residing or working In the project area to excessive noise levels? No Impact. The project is not located within the vicinity of a private airstrip. IM 5.12 POPULATION AND HOUSING a. Would the project induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly [e.g., by proposing new homes and businesses] or indirectly ( e.g., through extension of roads or other infrastructure?] No Impact. Although improvements to public service faciUties are generally regarded as extensions of major infrastructure, the project as proposed would not alter the capacity of the existing sewer line. The project has been developed in an effort to protect the existing sewer Une from erosion and provide maintenance access rather than to expand the infrastructure of the City. b. Would the project displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? No Impact. Several private residences are located within the direct vicinity of the site. The proposed project would not alter or remove these homes. c. Would the project displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? No Impact. The proposed project would not cause any of the nearby residents to be displaced. DUDEK July 1999 & ASSOCIATES, INC.I fto/™™^T,.™>rc«,,(,./v,^«« North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 2088-01 39 il m Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts 5.13 PUBLIC SERVICES a. Would the proposal have an effect upon, or result in a need for new or altered government services in the area of fire protection? Less than Significant Impact. The project would not create a long term fire hazard, therefore the need for increased fire protection would not occur. b. Would the proposal have an effect upon, or result in a need for new or altered government services in the area of police protection? No Impact. Construction, maintenance, and liabHity of the proposed project would be the responsibUity of the District. The nature of the project would not warrant police intervention, therefore an increase in local police protection would not occur. c. Would the proposal have an effect upon, or result in a need for new or altered govemment services in the area of schools? No Impact. The proposed project would not increase the local population, therefore a demand on nearby schools would not occur. d. Would the proposal have an effect upon, or result in a need for new or altered govemment services in the area parks? No Impact. The proposed project would not have any effect upon area parks. e. Would the proposal have an effect upon, or result in a need for new or altered government services in the area of other govemmental services? Less than Significant Impact. All construction, maintenance, management, and liabHity of the proposed project would be assumed by the City. See Sections 5- '14a, 5. Hh, 5.'l4c and 5- 'I4d. 5.14 RECREATION a. Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? No impact. Reconstruction of the sewer maintenance access road and construction of the erosion protection structure would not affect the use of existing neighborhood and regional m DUDEK July 1999 2088-01 & ASSOCIATES, INC.I North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 40 m m Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts parks or recreational facHities. Public boating and fishing within Agua Hedionda Lagoon would not be impacted. b. Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational fadlities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? No impact. The project is not associated with recreational facHities nor the use of such facilities. m m M «i 5.15 TRANSPORTATION AND TRAFFIC a. Would the project cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of the street system (i.e., result in a substantial increase in either the number of vehicle trips, the volume to capacity ratio on roads or congestion at intersections)? Less Than Significant Impact. The proposed project would not create a significant increase in local traffic levels. Construction vehicle traffic would add approximately 10 trips per day for 90 days to Hoover Street, Cove Drive, Adams Street, Tamarack and possibly 1-5. The addition of these daily trips to nearby roadways would not have a significant effect on current traffic flow rates. m Post-construction, it is estimated that City vehicles and equipment would use the access road once a year in order to perform routine sewer line maintenance; this is not considered to be a significant effect. Would the proposed project exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of service standard established by the County Congestion Management Agency for designated roads or highways? Less than Significant Impact. As discussed above in Section 5.15a, the addition of 10 construction vehicle trips per day for 90 days and one post-construction vehicle trip per year would not be sufficient to individually or cumulatively exceed level of service standards established for the circulation roadways in the vicinity of the project site. Would the project result in a change in air traffic pattems, including either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks? No Impact. See Section 5.'l5a. DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 Te^m/.. Complex Pn^«Ls Nortti Agua Hodionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 41 m m m m m m Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Imparts d. Would the project substantially increase hazards due to a design feature {e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections] or incompatible uses [e.g., farm equipment]? No Impact. Access to the sewer maintenance access road would be restricted to City maintenance staff. The access road has been designed to safely accommodate City maintenance vehicles. e. Would the project result in inadequate emergency access? No Impact. The project would not affect emergency access to the surrounding residences but would provide adequate emergency repair access to City personnel. f. Would the project result in inadequate parking capacity? No impact. During construction, adequate vehicle parking would be provided at a construction staging area to be located at the western terminus of the project corridor, immediately southeast of the terminus of Hoover Street (see Biological Resources Map in map pocket). After completion of the proposed project, it is not anticipated that parking would be required. g. Would the proposed project confiict with adopted policies, plans or programs supporting altemative transportation [e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks]? No impact. AH permanent features of the proposed project corridor would Ue within the City's existing sewer easement. Limited temporary impacts would occur landward of the sewer easement, along private property. No policies, plans or programs supporting alternative transportation would be affected. 5.! 6 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS a. Would the project exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board? No impact. The proposed project would not result in additional needs for wastewater treatment. DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC. July 1999 2088-01 m Prnfeimaal Taim for Compkx Pnjrr.ls North Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 42 m Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts Would the proposed project require or result in the constmction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? m No impact. The proposed project would not require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facHities or expansion of existing facHities; therefore, no impacts would occur. Would the project require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? No Impact. The proposed project would not require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facHities or expansion of existing facHities; therefore, no impacts would occur. d. Would the project have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? No Impact. The proposed project would not require water supply services. e. Would the project result in determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project's projected demand in addition to the provider/s existing commitments? No Impact. The proposed project would not require wastewater treatment services. f. Would the proposed project be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs? No Impact. Disposal of solid waste generated during project construction would be the responsibility of the construction contractor. After construction, the project would not require solid waste material recovery or disposal. g. Would the project comply with federal, state and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste? No Impact. Disposal of solid waste generated during project construction would be disposed of in a manner consistent with federal, state and local statutes and regulations. After construction, the project would not require solid waste material recovery or disposal. DUDEK July 1999 .&ASSOCIATES. INC.I — Fm/e>s,o„ai Team/a, co«id» Pn^u Nortti Agua Hedlonda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 2088-01 43 Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts 5.17 MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE IM Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality ofthe environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of rare or endangered plants or animals, or eliminate important examples of the major periods of Califomia history or prehistory? Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The project site is considered biologically sensitive, however mitigation measures for coastal sage scrub and wetland habitats have been included. The proposed mitigation would decrease the impacts to a level below significance. Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the Incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effert of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects.] Less than Significant Impact. As discussed in each environmental category above, impacts from the proposed project, with mitigation incorporated, are considered to be less than significant or would have no impact (see Section 3, Proposed Finding of No Significant Effect). The proposed project, when considered in connection with the effects of past, current or future projects in the project vicinity, would not result in cumulatively considerable impacts. Because Agua Hedionda Lagoon is designated as a special resource area and is zoned as open space in the City's General Plan, it is unlikely that future development would be approved within the lagoon. Future development of the surrounding properties would be governed in accordance with the City's General Plan and, upon approval by the City CouncH and applicable resource agencies, the City's Draft HMP. Cumulative losses of biological resources in the City of Carlsbad are being considered in conjunction with the overaH review and approval process for the Draft HMP. Although the HMP has not yet been adopted, the proposed project has been considered in the context of the Draft HMP. To the extent that the project would not conflict with goals and objectives of the Draft HMP and would provide for mitigation of direct impacts to biological resources in locations designated for preservation by the Draft HMP, significant cumulative impacts to biological resources would be avoided. The proposed project, in combination with the mitigation package for impacts to biological resources has be determined to be consistent with the goals and therefore significant cumulative impacts to biological resources are not anticipated. m DUDEK July 1999 .& ASSOCIATES, INC.I — /V"'"""' T™™'/"' f^«^' ^9"^ Hedlonda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 2088-01 44 Mi Section 5.0 Discussion of Environmental Impacts c. Does the projert have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either dirertly or indirertly? Less Than Significant Impact. Based on the analysis of the above questions, it has been determined that there would be no significant direct or indirect effect on human beings. Any impacts determined to be potentially significant have been mitigate to below a level of significance and would therefore not threaten human beings. 5.18 REFERENCES AGRA Earth & Environmental, Inc. July 14, 1998. Geotechnical Investigation. Agua Hedionda Sevcer Access Road, Carlsbad, California. Associated Engineers. 1965. Plans for the Construction of Agua Hedionda Interceptor Sevcer and Down Town Force Main. California Building Standards Commission. 1994. Uniform Building Code, Chapter 18, Section 1809. California Department of Conservation, Division of Mines and Geology. 1996. Update of Mineral Land Classification: Aggregate Materials in the Western San Diego County Production- Consumption Region Special Report 96-O4. Carlsbad, City of. 1982. Agua Hedionda Land Use Plan and Local Coastal Program. Carlsbad, City of. 1992. Open Space and Conservation Resource Management Plan. Carisbad, City of. 1994. General Plan. Carlsbad, City of. 1999. Draft Habitat Management Plan for Natural Communities in the City of Carlsbad. SANDAG. Accessed February and March, 1999. SANGIS Interactive Maps Website. SANDAG. 1998. SANGIS, Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Hazard Maps. DUDEK July 1999 2088-01 .&ASSOCIATES, INC., 'projeM Ti,™/». c^mpux i-,,jec^ North AguB Hedionda Interceptor Sewer Maintenance Access Road 45