HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-03-16; Planning Commission; Resolution 7148
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A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING THE FINDING THAT THE FINAL
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION (MND 5-914) AND MITIGATION
MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM (MMRP) AND ADDENDUM,
PREPARED AND ADOPTED BY THE BUENA SANITATION DISTRICT, ARE
ADEQUATE FOR THIS PROJECT TO INSTALL A REPLACEMENT SEWER
PIPELINE AND APPURTENANCES ON PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED
WITHIN THE PUBLIC RIGHTS-OF-WAY ON PALOMAR AIRPORT ROAD
FROM EL CAMINO REAL, WEST TO THE INTERSECTION WITH PASEO DEL
NORTE, AND CONTINUING SOUTH ON PASEO DEL NORTE FOR
APPROXIMATELY 1,200 FEET IN LOCAL FACILITIES MANAGEMENT ZONES
3, 5 AND 13.
CASE NAME: BUENA OUTFALL FORCE MAIN PHASE III
CASE NO.: CDP 14-06/CUP 15-08
WHEREAS, Buena Sanitation District, “Developer,” has filed a verified application with
the City of Carlsbad regarding property described as
A portion of property identified by Assessor’s Parcel Number 209-050-
25, 211-040-27, 212-092-21 and 213-020-18 and generally located
within the public rights-of-way on Palomar Airport Road from El Camino
Real, west to Paseo del Norte, and continuing south on Paseo del Norte
for approximately 1,200 and on file in the Planning Division
(“the Property”); and
WHEREAS, the Buena Sanitation District, acting in its capacity as lead agency under the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) did, on September 24, 2014 adopt a Final Mitigated Negative
Declaration, MND 5-914, in conjunction with said project; and
WHEREAS, since the 30-day public review of the draft MND, the Buena Sanitation
Districted has conducted additional engineering studies on the project, resulting in minor changes to the
project; and
WHEREAS, these changes are reflected in the attached Addendum, memorandum from
the Buena Sanitation District, dated January 5, 2016. The MND is also attached; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission did, on March 16, 2016, hold a duly noticed public
hearing as prescribed by law to consider the MND (MND 5-914), and to determine whether the MND
prepared and adopted by the Buena Sanitation District is adequate for use by the City of Carlsbad as a
responsible agency; and
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 7148
PC RESO NO. 7148 -2-
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WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony and
arguments, examining the initial study and addendum, analyzing the information submitted by staff, and
considering any written comments received, the Planning Commission considered all factors relating to
the MND.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of
Carlsbad as follows:
A) That the foregoing recitations are true and correct.
B) That based on the evidence presented at the public hearing, the Planning Commission
hereby determines that the MND and Addendum, prepared and adopted by the Buena
Sanitation District, attached hereto and made a part hereof, is adequate for the BUENA
OUTFALL FORCE MAIN PHASE III – CDP 14-06/CUP 15-08 based on the following findings
and subject to the following conditions:
Findings:
1. The Planning Commission of the City of Carlsbad does hereby find:
a. it has reviewed, analyzed, and considered the MND and Addendum prepared and
adopted by the Buena Sanitation District for the BUENA OUTFALL FORCE MAIN PHASE III
– CDP 14-06/CUP 15-08 and the environmental impacts therein identified for this project
and any comments thereon prior to APPROVING the project; and
b. the MND has been prepared in accordance with requirements of the California
Environmental Quality Act, the State Guidelines and the Environmental Protection
Procedures of the City of Carlsbad; and
c. it reflects the independent judgment of the Planning Commission of the City of Carlsbad;
and
d. based on the MND and Addendum and comments thereon, and with the incorporation of
mitigation measures identified in the MND and required in the Mitigation Monitoring and
Reporting Program for the Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project, there is no
substantial evidence the project will have a significant effect on the environment.
Conditions:
1. This approval is granted subject to all conditions contained in Planning Commission Resolution
No. 7149 for the other approval incorporated herein by reference.
2. The Developer shall implement the mitigation measures described in the Mitigation Monitoring
and Reporting Program for the Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project.
. . .
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NOTICE TO APPLICANT
An appeal of this decision to the City Council must be filed with the City Clerk at 1200 Carlsbad Village
Drive, Carlsbad, California, 92008, within ten (10) calendar days ofthe date of the Planning Commission's
decision. Pursuant to Carlsbad Municipal Code Chapter 21.54, section 21.54.150, the appeal must be in
writing and state the reason(s) for the appeal. The City Council must make a determination on the appeal
prior to any judicial review.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Planning Commission of
the City of Carlsbad, California, held on March 16, 2016, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Chairperson Anderson, Commissioners Black, Goyarts, L'Heureux,
Montgomery, Segall and Siekmann
~£t.o~W
CARLSBAD PLANNING COMMISSION
17 ATTEST:
18 ~7b
19 DON NEU
City Planner
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PC RESO NO. 7148 -3-
DATE: January 5, 2016
TO: Project File
FROM: Patrick Johnson, District Manager
SUBJECT: Addendum to the Final Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
(SCH 2014041035) for the Buena Sanitation District Buena Outfall
Force Main, Phase III (CIP 8131)
______________________________________________________________________
The Buena Sanitation District (District) prepared an Initial Study and Mitigated Negative
Declaration (IS/MND) (SCH 2014041035) and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
Program (MMRP) for the Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project (Project) which was
adopted by the District on September 23, 2014. A Notice of Determination (NOD) was
filed with the County Clerk on September 24, 2014. The IS/MND was based on 60%
design drawings. Since the IS/MND was finalized in 2014, the District completed the
100% design phase and in coordination with the City of Carlsbad made corrections to the
descriptions of some existing facilities and minor technical changes to some elements of
the project design. These include definition of final pipe diameters, segment lengths (e.g.,
transitions to a force main versus gravity line or vice versa) and a modification to the
location of an odor control unit. The overall project alignment and footprint is not modified
in any way, with the majority of the Buena outfall project alignment confined to City of
Carlsbad’s existing right-of-way (ROW) located within the public street.
Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines §15164, the
Lead Agency (District) is required to prepare an Addendum to a previously adopted
IS/MND if some changes or additions are necessary but where none of the conditions
described in CEQA Guidelines §15162 have occurred. Key to the Lead Agency’s decision
to prepare an Addendum are that changes to the Project do not result in any new
significant effects, increase the severity of any previously identified significant effects or
require changes to the adopted mitigation measures. Additionally, the minor changes to
the Project Description do not require recirculation of the IS/MND since the changes are
consistent with the description of “new information” in CEQA Section 15073.5(c)(4), which
states recirculation is not required if “new information is added to the negative declaration
which merely clarifies, amplifies, or makes insignificant modifications to the negative
declaration.”
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Addendum to the Final Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration
The District has reviewed the adopted IS/MND relative to the final Project design and has
determined that neither a subsequent IS/MND nor a supplement to the IS/MND is
warranted since the changes in the Project description are minor in nature and include
clarifications to existing conditions and existing facilities. The District has determined that
the final engineering specifications for pipeline segment lengths and diameters and
clarification on the location of one of the odor control units would not result in any new
significant impacts, a worsening of identified significant impacts, or create a need for any
new mitigation measures. This Addendum has been prepared as a part of the CEQA
administrative record to document the final description of some of the existing Buena
outfall facilities and modified project design details which are as follows:
The IS/MND states on page 1-5 that the existing Buena Outfall is located 650 feet
southwest to the north side of Palomar Airport Road. The final design notes the
correct reference should be 500 feet southwest to the north side of Palomar
Airport Road.
The IS/MND states on page 1-6 that the force main in the vicinity of Yarrow Road
and Palomar Airport Road will be a 24-inch diameter pipeline; however the final
design indicates this pipeline segment will be 26 inches in diameter.
The IS/MND states on page 1-6 that the force main in the vicinity of Yarrow Road
and Palomar Airport Road will be 3,250 feet; however the final design indicates
this segment will be 2,600 feet in length.
The IS/MND states on page 1-6 that this segment of pipeline will transition to a
24-inch diameter gravity sewer line. Based upon the final design, the pipeline will
tie into a 30-inch diameter gravity sewer line.
The IS/MND states on page 1-6 that the gravity sewer line will continue another
5,500 feet in the westbound lanes of Palomar Airport Road; however, final design
indicates this segment of pipeline is 5,600 feet in length.
The IS/MND states on page 1-6 that gravity sewer line will transition back to an
18-inch force main. Final design confirms this will be a 24-inch force main.
The IS/MND states on page 1-6 that the force main will continue approximately
10,000 feet further west to the intersection of Palomar Airport Road and Paseo
Del Norte. Final design indicates that the actual length of pipeline will be 9,700
feet.
BUENA SANITATION DISTRICT
FINAL MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND
INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III – CIP 8131
PROJECT NAME: Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III – CIP 8131
PROJECT LOCATION: The project alignment begins at the northeast corner of
the intersection of Palomar Airport Road and El Camino
Real, traverses within the westbound lanes of Palomar
Airport Road and terminates within Paseo Del Norte,
approximately 1,200 feet south of Palomar Airport
Road, in the city of Carlsbad, northwestern San Diego
County.
PROJECT APPLICANTS: Buena Sanitation District
LEAD AGENCY: Buena Sanitation District
200 Civic Center Drive
Vista, California 92084
Contact: Elmer Alex, Senior Engineer
(760) 643-5416
ealex@cityofvista.com
PUBLIC REVIEW
PERIOD: April 9, 2014 to May 9, 2014
State Clearinghouse Number: 2014041035
This Final Mitigated Negative Declaration and Initial Study Checklist have been prepared pursuant
to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code, Section 21000, et
seq.) and the State CEQA Guidelines (California Code of Regulations, Section 15000, et seq.). It
was available for a 20-day public review period as shown above.
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Topic Page
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 1-1
Overview ....................................................................................................................................................... 1-1
Authority ....................................................................................................................................................... 1-1
Scope ............................................................................................................................................................ 1-2
Chapter 1 Environmental Setting and Project Description .......................................................................... 1-1
Project Overview .......................................................................................................................................... 1-1
Existing Environmental Setting ................................................................................................................... 1-1
Surrounding Land Uses ............................................................................................................................... 1-5
Proposed Project Description ..................................................................................................................... 1-5
Chapter 2 Initial Study Environmental Checklist .......................................................................................... 2-1
Project Information ...................................................................................................................................... 2-1
Environmental Factors Potentially Affected ............................................................................................... 2-2
Environmental Determination ..................................................................................................................... 2-2
I. Aesthetics ........................................................................................................................................ 2-4
II. Agriculture and Forestry Resources .............................................................................................. 2-6
III. Air Quality ........................................................................................................................................ 2-8
IV. Biological Resources .................................................................................................................... 2-14
V. Cultural Resources ....................................................................................................................... 2-22
VI. Geology and Soils ......................................................................................................................... 2-26
VII. Greenhouse Gas Emissions ......................................................................................................... 2-30
VIII. Hazards and Hazardous Materials .............................................................................................. 2-32
IX. Hydrology and Water Quality ........................................................................................................ 2-37
X. Land Use and Planning ................................................................................................................ 2-43
XI. Mineral Resources ........................................................................................................................ 2-46
XII. Noise .............................................................................................................................................. 2-47
XIII. Population and Housing ............................................................................................................... 2-55
XIV. Public Services .............................................................................................................................. 2-56
XV. Recreation ..................................................................................................................................... 2-58
XVI. Transportation/Traffic .................................................................................................................. 2-59
XVII. Utilities and Service Systems ....................................................................................................... 2-72
XVIII. Mandatory Findings of Significance ............................................................................................ 2-74
Chapter 3 References and List of Preparers ................................................................................................ 3-1
Individuals and Organizations Consulted ................................................................................................... 3-1
References ................................................................................................................................................... 3-1
List of Preparers........................................................................................................................................... 3-3
TABLE OF FIGURES
Figure 1 Project Location Map .......................................................................................................................... 1-2
Figure 2 Site Location with Proposed Alignment ............................................................................................. 1-3
Figure 3 Project Alignment - Aerial Photo ......................................................................................................... 1-4
Appendix A Applicable Project Design Features and Standard Conditions of Approval from the 2008
Sewer Master Plan PEIR
Appendix B Comment letters on the Draft MND/IS and Responses from the Buena Sanitation District
Buena Sanitation District Introduction
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project Introduction September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist
Introduction
Overview
The Buena Sanitation District (District) has prepared this Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/
Initial Study (MND/IS) to evaluate the potential environmental consequences associated with the
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III project (proposed project). The public review period ran from
April 9 through May 9, 2014. Comment letters were received from the following public agencies:
California Department of Transportation
City of Carlsbad
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
San Luis Rey Band of Mission Indians
Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, State Clearinghouse
Regional Water Quality Control Board, Region 9
Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians
Copies of these comment letters as well as the responses from the District are included in
Appendix B. Some minor clarifications and some additional information have been added to this
MND/IS in response to the comment letters. None of the impact conclusions have changed and
no new or additional mitigation measures are required as part of the discretionary approval
process, the proposed project was required to undergo environmental review pursuant to the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). One of the main objectives of CEQA is to disclose to
the public and the decision makers the potential environmental effects of the proposed activities.
CEQA requires that the lead agency prepare an Initial Study to determine whether an
Environmental Impact Report (EIR), Negative Declaration (ND), or a Mitigated Negative
Declaration (MND) is needed. The Buena Sanitation District is the Lead Agency for the proposed
project under CEQA. The City of Carlsbad is a Responsible Agency under CEQA due to the location
of the project within its municipal limits. A description of this proposed project is found in Chapter
2 of this document.
Authority
The preparation of this MND/IS is governed by two principal sets of documents: CEQA (Public
Resources Code Section 21000, et seq.) and the State CEQA Guidelines (California Code of
Regulations Section 15000, et seq.). Specifically, the preparation of an MND/IS is guided by the
State CEQA Guidelines; Section 15063 describes the requirements for an Initial Study, and
Sections 15070–15075 describe the process for the preparation of a Mitigated Negative
Declaration. Where appropriate and supportive to an understanding of the issues, reference will
be made to either the CEQA statute or State CEQA Guidelines. This MND/IS contains all of the
contents required by CEQA, which includes a project description, a description of the existing
environmental setting, potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures for any significant
impacts, consistency with applicable plans and policies, and names of preparers.
The Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III project would be implemented by the District as part of the
City of Vista and Buena Sanitation District’s 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update, which provides a
set of recommended projects for inclusion in the District’s overall Capital Improvement Program
(CIP). The District prepared a Program Environmental Impact Report (Program EIR, State
Clearinghouse No. 2007091072) in 2008 to addresses the potential environmental
consequences of various proposed rehabilitation, replacement, and sewer pipeline relocation
Buena Sanitation District Introduction
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project Introduction September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist
projects that constitute the recommended CIP identified in the 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update
(City of Vista, 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update Program EIR, 2008). The Buena Outfall Force Main
project was identified in the PEIR as a capacity-related Capital Improvement Program project;
however, the alignment has changed since 2008, as reflected in the current project description.
Although the alignment of the proposed project differs from that previously evaluated in the PEIR,
the PEIR contains information on the types of impacts associated with the current project and
recommends mitigation measures, standard project design, and construction features to avoid,
reduce or lessen the potential for adverse environmental effects. Therefore, this MND/IS tiers
from the 2008 PEIR.
Where relevant to the current Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III project, provisions from Table S-
4 Index to Mitigation Measures and Table S-5 Summary of Standard Project Design Features and
Construction Measures, from the City’s 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update Program EIR,, have been
incorporated into the project and are contained in Appendix A of this MND/IS for reference.
Although some project design features (PDFs) and standard conditions of approval (SCAs) are
incorporated into the project, they do not constitute “mitigation measures” as mitigation
measures are required only when a potentially significant impact has been identified that must be
avoided or reduced.
The MND/IS contains mitigation measures which are provided to reduce potential impacts from
the proposed pipeline project to below the level of significance. In addition to the mitigation
measures contained in this document (and the companion Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
Program (MMRP)), the District, through codes and standard design and construction practices,
have incorporated project design features and construction measures into the project that help to
reduce the potential for environmental effects.
In the context of this CEQA document, references to the City of Vista mean the City of Vista or the
Buena Sanitation District, as applicable. For all environmental issue areas, residual impacts would
not be significant with implementation of mitigation measures. This conclusion is consistent with
the findings of the City of Vista 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update Program EIR.
Scope
This MND/IS evaluates the proposed project’s effects on the following resource topics:
aesthetics
agricultural and forestry resources
air quality
biological resources
cultural resources
geology and soils
greenhouse gas emissions
hazards and hazardous materials
hydrology and water quality
land use planning
mineral resources
noise
population and housing
public services
recreation
transportation/traffic
utilities and service systems
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 1 – Environmental Setting and Project Description
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 1-1
Chapter 1
ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Project Overview
The Buena Sanitation District (District) is responsible for the collection and delivery of wastewater
from homes and businesses to the Encina Water Pollution Control Plant (EWPCF). These flows are
conveyed via the Buena Outfall originally constructed in 1964, which currently collects from two
drainage basins. The Buena Creek Pump Station Basin and Raceway Pump Station Basin
wastewater flows are pumped via the Buena Creek and Raceway pump stations through the
Buena Outfall Force Main. These flows are then collected and conveyed to treatment within the
Buena Outfall into the EWPCF.
The existing Buena Outfall does not provide sufficient capacity for implementation of the District’s
approved 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update. A new outfall needs to be constructed to
accommodate the previously approved flows and Carlsbad’s local flow. The District has proposed
a new 24” Force Main to replace the existing outfall. This proposed project will re-route the
existing Buena Outfall and tie into both the existing 30-inch Buena Outfall and the 48-inch
Vallecitos Water District (VWD) Land Outfall at Paseo Del Norte. The District owns capacity within
the 48-inch VWD Land Outfall. A flow control structure will be utilized to direct sewer flow to the
existing 30-inch Buena Outfall and/or the 48-inch VWD Land Outfall. The city of Carlsbad’s local
flows shall remain in the existing Buena Outfall. The District is also proposing up to five odor
control units along the project alignment.
Existing Environmental Setting
City of Carlsbad
The proposed project is located within the city of Carlsbad. Carlsbad is located in northwestern
San Diego County, and includes approximately 39 square miles of land located adjacent to the
Pacific Ocean (Figure 1). The city has approximately seven miles of coastline and is located about
30 minutes north of the City of San Diego. The city includes three coastal lagoons including the
Buena Vista Lagoon, Agua Hedionda Lagoon, and the Batiquitos Lagoon. The Buena Vista Lagoon
represents the City’s northern border with the City of Oceanside and the Batiquitos Lagoon
represents the City’s southern border with the City of Encinitas. The city shares an eastern border
with the city of Vista and the city of San Marcos. The city’s elevation ranges from sea level along
the western edge where it abuts the ocean to a maximum elevation of approximately 600 feet
above mean sea level. For city planning and growth management purposes, Carlsbad is divided
into four distinct quadrants including the Northwest, Northeast, Southeast and Southwest
quadrants. The project site is located in the center of the city of Carlsbad and primarily within the
Northwest and Northeast quadrants (located west of El Camino Real) (Figures 2 and 3).
The Northwest quadrant of Carlsbad includes the downtown "Village,” the Barrio, and "Old
Carlsbad." It was the first part of Carlsbad to be settled; homes range from 1950s cottages and
bungalows to elegant mansions on the hill overlooking the ocean. It is also home to Hosp Grove
Park, a grove of trees designated by the city for recreational use, in addition to the Buena Vista
and Agua Hedionda Lagoon. It is located west of El Camino Real and north of Palomar Airport
Road.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 1 – Environmental Setting and Project Description
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 1-2
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 1 – Environmental Setting and Project Description
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 1-3
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 1 – Environmental Setting and Project Description
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 1-4
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 1 – Environmental Setting and Project Description
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 1-5
The Northeast quadrant consists mostly of single-family homes, with larger lots found in the older
area known as Chestnut Hills. It is located east of El Camino Real and north of Palomar Airport
Road.
The Southeast quadrant features several newer master-planned communities set among rolling
hillsides, golf courses, and open space. Residents here are served by the award-winning Carlsbad
Unified School District. This quadrant is located east of El Camino Real and south of Palomar
Airport Road.
The Southwest quadrant extends along the Pacific Ocean to the south of the center of Carlsbad. It
includes the Aviara neighborhood. It is located west of El Camino Real and south of Palomar
Airport Road.
Surrounding Land Uses
Existing land uses adjacent to the proposed project alignment include both commercial and
industrial land uses. There are no residential land uses that are directly adjacent to the proposed
project alignment. At the eastern end of the project alignment, adjacent land uses include open
space, the McClellan-Palomar Airport, the Palomar Commons commercial shopping center, and
residential and commercial uses within Bressi Ranch (master planned community). Heading west
along the alignment within Palomar Airport Road, adjacent land uses consist of commercial office
buildings, several hotels, industrial land uses including those related to the airport, the Crossings
Golf Course owned by the City of Carlsbad, Costco, Legoland, and the Flower Fields. At the
intersection of Palomar Airport Road and Paseo Del Norte, the alignment turns south. Existing
surrounding land uses include three gas stations, commercial uses, fast food outlets, a hotel,
office and industrial buildings and restaurants.
Proposed Project Description
The proposed project will provide additional capacity to allow future projected flows from
previously approved and existing land use densities coming from the existing Buena Creek and
Raceway lift stations to be conveyed to the Encina Water Pollution Control Facility (EWPCF). The
EWPCF is a regional wastewater treatment plant located in the City of Carlsbad, west of Interstate
5 on Avenida Encinas, between Palomar Airport Road on the north and Poinsettia Road on the
south. The proposed project is intended to improve and enhance capacity and non-capacity-
related facilities (e.g., odor control facilities) that are necessary to ensure safe and reliable
operation of the existing sewer system. The following objectives have been identified for this
project:
Relocate the District’s primary trunk sewer out of environmentally sensitive areas to
minimize potential impacts in case of a spill;
Provide access for regular maintenance activities;
Reduce the potential for sewer overflows;
Make facility improvements on age, material, and condition related infrastructure; and,
Restore, maintain, and/or enhance existing sewer service.
The District is proposing to construct a new Buena Outfall. The alignment begins at an existing 24-
inch force main just east of manhole #55A. The Buena Outfall starts as a pressurized force main
then continues across El Camino Real, parallel to the existing 18-inch VCP Buena Outfall sewer,
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 1 – Environmental Setting and Project Description
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 1-6
approximately 650 feet southwest to the north side of Palomar Airport Road. The force main then
proceeds within the westbound lanes of Palomar Airport Road towards the intersection of Yarrow
Drive and Palomar Airport Road. The alignment continues west for approximately 2,600 feet to a
high point before the intersection of Yarrow and Palomar Airport Road. The total length of 24-inch
force main for this section is approximately 3,250 feet. A proposed manhole will be placed where
the force main will end and discharge into the proposed 24-inch gravity sewer and continue
approximately another 5,500 feet along the north side (westbound lanes) of Palomar Airport
Road. At approximately Palomar Oaks Way, the pipeline would transition to an 18--inch force main
sewer and continue approximately 10,000 feet further west to the intersection of Palomar Airport
Road and Paseo Del Norte. The pipeline will then transition to a 24-inch gravity sewer main and
turn south and proceed within the southbound lanes of Paseo Del Norte a distance of
approximately 1,200 feet and tie into the existing 48-inch and 30-inch trunk sewers, which flow,
to the EWPCF located west of Interstate 5.
The proposed project will re-route the existing Buena Outfall and tie into the existing 30-inch
sewer and 48-inch sewer at Paseo Del Norte. The District owns capacity in both sewer pipelines
which consists of 10.75 million gallons per day (MGDs) in the 30-inch pipeline and 3.75 MGDs in
the 48-inch pipeline. In order to provide maximum flexibility, the design will include a flow-splitting
manhole just upstream of the tie-in point. The diversion manhole will be equipped with the means
to allow flow to be diverted to one or both of the existing trunk sewer lines
A preliminary geotechnical review was prepared for this project. The report indicated that Santiago
formation will be encountered and imbedded with silty and clayey sandstones, claystones, and
siltstones; some cement zones, cobbles, and fill material. It is anticipated that the existing
materials will be suitable for trench backfill. The County of San Diego has indicated that this
project will be within 1,000 feet of the closed Palomar Airport Landfill. The review of the County
maps indicated that the project alignment is outside of the limits of the solid waste deposit
footprint.
Although most of the work for the Buena Outfall will be confined to City of Carlsbad right of way
(ROW), four potential parcels have been identified, portions of which will have to be obtained
either through easement or fee. Each of the potential parcels is described below.
Parcel 1 - Palomar Airport Road (APN 213-20-18). This parcel lies at the intersection of Palomar
Airport Road and El Camino Real. This right-of-way is required to provide a site for the directional
drilling that will be required to cross from the junction of the existing force main and the new force
main to the north side of Palomar Airport Road.
Parcel 2 - Palomar Airport Road north of Yarrow Drive. This parcel lies on the north side of Palomar
Airport Road and approximately 1,000 feet east of the intersection of Palomar Airport Road and
Yarrow Road. This site would be used for the construction of an odor control facility.
Parcel 3 - Palomar Airport Road east of Paseo del Norte. This parcel lies on the south side of
Palomar Airport Road approximately 500 feet east of Paseo del Norte in the parcel currently being
used for parking for Costco and the Carl’s Jr. Restaurant. This site would be used for the
construction of an odor control facility.
Parcel 4 - Paseo Del Norte at the Motel 6. This parcel lies on the west side of Paseo Del Norte.
Portions of this parcel are vacant and others are used for parking for the Motel 6. This site would
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 1 – Environmental Setting and Project Description
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 1-7
be used for one or more odor control facilities. However, the location of any odor control facilities
will not permanently remove any parking spaces from the Motel 6 parking lot.
Construction Methods and Phasing
Project construction is anticipated to be initiated in late 2014 and will take approximately one
year including project start up, material procurement and close out. The actual pipeline
construction will be a roving operation with a production rate of approximately 200-feet per night.
The trenchless activities which would include installing pipe near the intersection of Palomar
Airport Road and El Camino Real will take approximately three months. The trenchless
construction and cut and cover construction would likely occur concurrently. The project would be
built primarily at night generally between the hours of 9pm to 6am (Sunday through Thursday) to
ensure that short-term construction impacts to traffic on Palomar Airport Road and other City of
Carlsbad streets are minimized. Construction along Paseo Del Norte near the Motel 6 would occur
in the daytime to avoid creating nighttime noise related impacts to hotel guests. In addition to the
pipeline, other proposed ancillary facilities include odor control facilities and short-term
construction laydown and staging areas.
A combination of cut and cover and trenchless technologies (including micro-tunneling) would be
utilized for this project. The proposed project would be constructed generally from west to east in
progressive 200-foot long segments. The pipeline would consist either of High Density
Polyethylene (HDPE) or Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). Active construction is estimated to take
approximately one year. Because the majority of constriction would occur within the limits of
Palomar Airport Road, the majority of project construction would occur at nighttime (between the
hours of 9pm and 6am) to avoid creating peak hour traffic impacts along this heavily traveled
roadway. The District will prepare a traffic control plan based on final design to minimize
disruptions to traffic on the affected streets and intersections during morning and evening peak
hour times.
Odor Control Facilities
Implementation of the proposed project has the potential for odor generation. Preliminary sizing of
the odor control facilities are based on both turbulence at the connection between the force main
and the gravity system, the flow control structure, flow monitoring structures, and low flow
deposition in the gravity sewer with resulting odors released through the manholes. Several odor
control methods were evaluated to reduce and minimize potential odors from the project. For
individual manhole applications, the District would utilize a combination of manhole seal/biofilter
inserts. The District is also proposing up to five above ground odor control units. The odor control
facility locations include one a site located on the north side of Palomar Airport Road near the
intersection with Yarrow Drive, a second unit would be located on the south side of Palomar
Airport Road just west of the Costco and three additional odor control facilities would be located
near the project terminus at the Motel 6. The active odor control units will be installed with noise
reduction features that limit the generated noise level from the fan to approximately 60 decibels
(dB) at 10 feet away) and 46 dB at 50 feet away which is below City of Carlsbad noise guidance
for motel, hotels, and commercial areas. The active unit(s) along Palomar Airport Road will be
located in areas with existing noise levels generated by road traffic that will mask the noise. The
active unit near Motel 6 will be located 50-feet from any motel rooms. Passive odor control units
will not produce any noise. The approximate dimensions of the odor control units would be 10 feet
wide x 20 feet long x 8 feet high and they would be enclosed or landscaped or otherwise visually
screened to ensure effective aesthetic treatment.
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Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 1-8
Project Approvals
In addition to the City/District review and approval under CEQA, the proposed project would be
required to obtain a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) Permit from the City of Carlsbad, which is
also a Responsible Agency under CEQA; a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) General Permit for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Land Disturbance and
Disturbance Activities, Order No. 2010-0014-DWQ, NPDES No. CAS000002, and any other local
Regional Water Quality Control Board permits as applicable and required; an Encroachment
Permit from the Department of Transportation, and a permit from the San Diego Air Pollution
Control District for any active odor control units.
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Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-1
Chapter 2
INITIAL STUDY
ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST
Project Information
Project Title: Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project
Lead Agency Name and Address: Buena Sanitation District
200 Civic Center Drive
Vista, CA 92084
Contact Person and Phone Number: Elmer Alex, P.E., Senior Engineer
(760) 643-5416
Project Location: Northeast corner of the intersection of Palomar Airport
Road and El Camino Real, traverses within the
westbound lanes of Palomar Airport Road and
terminates within Paseo Del Norte, approximately
1,200 feet south of Palomar Airport Road, in the city of
Carlsbad.
Project Applicant: Buena Sanitation District
200 Civic Center Drive
Vista, CA 92084
Contact: Patrick Johnson, District Manager
General Plan Designations: Prime Arterial, Planned Industrial, Governmental
Facilities, Open Space, Travel/Recreation Commercial,
Airport Influence Area 1
Zoning Designations: Commercial, Industrial, Planned Industrial, Open
Space, Commercial Visitor Serving Overlay, Arterial
Roadway, Neighborhood Commercial, Residential
Professional.
Description of Project: See Chapter 2, Project Description.
Surrounding Land Uses and Setting: See Chapter 2, Project Description.
Other Public Agency Approvals: City of Carlsbad Coastal Development Permit; National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
General Permit for Stormwater Discharges Associated
with Land Disturbance and Disturbance Activities,
Order No. 2010-0014-DWQ, NPDES No. CAS000002,
and any other local San Diego Regional Water Quality
Control Board permits as applicable and required.
.
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Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-3
Evaluation of Environmental Impacts
The following IS checklist provides analysis of the proposed project's potential to result in
significant adverse environmental impacts. Section 15063(c) of the Guidelines indicates that the
purpose of an IS is to:
1. Provide the Lead Agency (the District) with information to use as the basis for deciding
whether to prepare an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) or Negative Declaration (ND);
2. Enable an applicant or Lead Agency to modify a project, mitigating adverse impacts before
an EIR is prepared, thereby enabling the project to qualify for a ND;
3. Assist the preparation of an EIR, if one is required, by:
a. Focusing the EIR on the effects determined to be significant;
b. Identifying the effects determined not to be significant;
c. Explaining the reasons why potentially significant effects would not be significant;
and,
d. Identifying whether a program EIR, tiering, or another appropriate process can be
used for analysis of the project’s environmental effects.
4. Facilitate environmental assessment early in the design of a project.
5. Provide documentation of the factual basis for the finding in an ND that a project will not
have a significant effect on the environment.
6. Eliminate unnecessary EIRs.
7. Determine whether a previously prepared EIR could be used with the project.
Impact Terminology
The following terminology is used to describe the potential level of significance of impacts:
A finding of no impact is appropriate if the analysis concludes that the project would not
affect the particular topic area in any way.
An impact is considered less than significant if the analysis concludes that it would not
cause substantial adverse change to the environment and requires no mitigation.
An impact is considered less than significant with mitigation incorporated if the analysis
concludes that it would not cause substantial adverse change to the environment with the
inclusion of environmental commitments that have been agreed to by the applicant.
An impact is considered potentially significant if the analysis concludes that it could have a
substantial adverse effect on the environment.
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Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-4
I. Aesthetics
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
a. Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic
vista?
b. Substantially damage scenic 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 source of substantial light or glare,
which would adversely affect day or nighttime
views in the area?
DISCUSSION
The city of Carlsbad is aesthetically characterized by a mixture of natural and urban landforms.
The natural environment is comprised of diverse landforms, rock outcrops, plants, and animal
resources, natural colors and hues and panoramic public views of the horizon, foothills, lagoons,
and the Pacific Ocean. The natural scenic landscape includes rugged coastal bluffs, several
expansive low lying coastal lagoons, and numerous valleys and small canyons surrounded by
rolling foothills. The urban environment includes commercial and industrial buildings,
landscaping, signage/monuments, and works of art. There is no dominant architectural theme
throughout the City. The proposed project alignment would be located within the center of the city
of Carlsbad and would be surrounded by existing commercial and industrial development.
The proposed project would be entirely underground with the exception of the planned odor
control facilities. The locations of these facilities are determined, in large extent to the location
within the system, where there are areas of system turbulence and are designed to reduce the
potential for odor. The dimensions are approximately 10 feet x 20 feet x 8 feet and the odor
control facilities would be located in areas that are screened from public view to the maximum
extent practical. To the extent they are publicly visible, the structures would be screened from
public view through site orientation, landscaping, or other aesthetic treatment. A total of five odor
control units are currently planned by the District with locations to be determined in consultation
with the City of Carlsbad during the final project design phase.
a. – d. Less than Significant Impact.
Temporary impacts to a scenic vista could occur during construction. However, the majority of the
project components are located along existing road rights-of-way and involve below ground
installations, and areas outside existing road rights-of-way, in landscaped areas, or where there is
native vegetation. However, to offset this potential impact, the Project Design Features (PDFs)
requiring vegetation that is removed to be replaced, or in the case of natural areas, revegetated to
blend with adjacent natural areas. All disturbed areas would be returned to pre-construction
conditions. Furthermore, any aboveground sewer line work would include upgrades to existing
facilities and no new aboveground pipelines or other components are proposed. The project will
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Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-5
comply with all PDFs in the 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update Program EIR and these are listed in
Appendix A of this MND/IS. Therefore, no scenic views would be affected in the long-term and no
permanent visual effects on a scenic vista are anticipated.
Views from scenic roadways could be impacted during construction-related activities. However, no
mobile viewers from a scenic roadway would be able to view project construction for any
substantial length of time, and given the relatively short-term visual change associated with
construction activities, impacts would be less than significant.
Views from scenic roadways could be impacted during construction-related activities. However, no
mobile viewers from a scenic roadway would be able to view project construction for any
substantial length of time, and given the relatively short-term visual change associated with
construction activities, impacts would be less than significant.
The visual character of the project area and its surroundings would not be adversely affected once
construction is completed and the disturbed road surfaces are restored to pre-existing conditions.
In addition, the relatively small scale physical changes associated with such pipeline construction
activities would not substantially degrade the existing visual character. Consequently, the project
will not result in any significant long-term visual impacts to its surroundings.
The project would require outdoor lighting for nighttime work. There are no residences located
along the length of the proposed project alignment. Project-related lighting would be short-term
and would not be required after the construction period concluded and therefore, impacts would
be less than significant.
Up to five primary (above ground) odor control facilities will be strategically placed along the
alignment in concrete masonry (CMU) block enclosures similar in size, color and style to the
existing public utility CMU block walls that exist along Palomar Airport Road. The enclosures will be
gated and secured from public access. The maximum footprint of the primary odor control facility
sites will be 10 feet wide x 14 feet long x 8 feet high. One of the primary odor facilities will not
require as large of a footprint. There are several methods available for screening the primary odor
control units to ensure they are visually enclosed, landscaped and/or otherwise screened to
ensure effective aesthetic treatment and blending with the locally adjacent colors and styles. The
District is committed to continue working with the City of Carlsbad on final layout, appearance and
color of facilities and enclosures to minimize the potential for visual impacts.
Aesthetics Mitigation Measures
None Required.
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Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-6
II. Agriculture and Forestry Resources
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
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
California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use?
b. Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a
Williamson Act contract?
c. Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of,
forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code
section 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by Public
Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned
Timberland Production (as defined by Government
Code Section 51104(g))?
d. Result in the loss of forestland or conversion of
forestland to non-forest use?
e. Involve other changes in the existing environment,
which, due to their location or nature, could result in
conversion of Farmland to nonagricultural use?
DISCUSSION
Agriculture is an important activity and resource in Carlsbad. The City’s agricultural policies are
intended to support agricultural activities while planning for the possible future transition of the
land to more urban uses consistent with the policies of the General Plan and the Carlsbad Local
Coastal Program (LCP). The City’s LCP protects agricultural lands from the premature conversion
to more urban land uses by establishing programs which require mitigation for conversion of
agricultural property to urban uses. It also has established methods to benefit agriculture in the
community by providing financial assistance through cash programs. As stated in the Open Space
and Conservation Element of the City’s General Plan, it is the City’s intention to support and utilize
all measures available to secure agricultural land uses for as long as possible prior to
development, and to promote the long-term economic viability of agricultural uses. However, the
projected pattern of development in Carlsbad is such that the extensive areas generally required
for economic agricultural operations are unlikely to be available in the long-term. The city of
Carlsbad consists mainly of urbanized and developed lands along the western, southern, and
northwestern portions, with large areas of undeveloped lands interspersed throughout the eastern
and central portions (City of Vista, 2008 Sewer Master Plan Program EIR, 2008).
a.-e. No Impact.
The project alignment would be almost entirely within existing roadways including Palomar Airport
Road. The surrounding land uses include primarily industrial and commercial land uses. The
Carlsbad Flower Fields are located near the project’s western terminus along Paseo Del Norte and
are part of the City’s Open Space areas. The Flower Fields are an active working ranch and
regional tourist attraction. The primary crop is the ranunculus flower and bulb. While the project
alignment would be located within the roadway located south of the Flower Fields, no impacts to
the Flower Fields themselves would occur as part of project implementation. Based on farmland
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Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-7
maps prepared by the California Department of Conservation, the property is not located in an
area designated as Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance.
Therefore, project implementation would not convert any Prime, Unique, or Important farmland to
nonagricultural use, and no impacts would occur. There are no forest resources located within the
project area.
The project alignment (project site) is not currently in active agricultural use, and it is not under a
Williamson Act contract. Project implementation would not conflict with existing agricultural zoning
or Williamson Act contracts; therefore, no agricultural impacts would occur.
The project alignment is not located within forest or timberland, nor is the project footprint
timberland zoned Timberland Production. Project implementation would not conflict with existing
forest/timberland zoning, nor result in the loss of forestland or conversion of forestland to non-
forest land; and therefore, no forestry resources impacts would occur.
The project consists of construction of linear underground sewer pipeline primarily within an
existing roadway to improve the current flow and capacity and meet future demands. The project
would not involve or affect any other changes in the existing environment of the subject property
or surrounding land that could result in the conversion of agricultural lands to non-agricultural
uses or conversion of forestland to non-forest use. Consequently, project implementation would
not convert any farmland or forestland to nonagricultural use, and no impacts would occur.
Agriculture and Forest Resources Mitigation Measures
None required.
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Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-8
III. Air Quality
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
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 qualitative thresholds for
ozone precursors?)
d. Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant
concentrations?
e. Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial
number of people?
The discussion below is summarized and based on the findings contained within the report, Air
Quality and Green House Gas Emissions Technical Report for the Buena Outfall Force Main Phase
III Project (RCH Group, 2014) prepared for the proposed project. This report is on file and
available for review with the District.
DISCUSSION
The above referenced technical report is the basis of the following analysis. The report focuses on
potential air quality impacts that would be associated with criteria pollutants would be generated
under the Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III project (proposed project).
The proposed project would reroute the Buena Outfall Force Main and gravity sewer eliminating
the current alignment through an industrial park south of Palomar Airport Road that has caused
odor problems. The proposed project would be implemented as part of the City of Vista and Buena
Sanitation District’s 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update, which provides a set of recommended
projects for inclusion in the City’s overall Capital Improvement Program (CIP). This analysis tiers,
where appropriate, from the Program Environmental Impact Report (EIR) that was prepared to
addresses the potential environmental consequences of the proposed rehabilitation,
replacement, and relocation sewer pipeline projects that constitute the recommended CIP
identified in the 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update (City of Vista, 2008). It should be noted that the
Program EIR found all air quality related impacts that would occur under the updated plan,
including those associated with the Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III project, to be less than
significant (City of Vista, 2008).
Formulas and emission factors from the Road Construction Emissions Model (version 7.1.2)
program were used to estimate air quality (i.e., criteria pollutant) that would be associated with
the proposed project. The Road Construction Emissions Model, version 7.1.2, was used to analyze
construction- related criteria air pollutants. Construction-related calculations include emissions
from numerous sources, including diesel and gas mobile construction equipment associated with
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Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-9
trenching and installation of the pipelines, and asphalt off-gassing. No new or increased
operation-related criteria air pollutants would be associated with the Proposed Project.
The San Diego Air Pollution Control District (SDAPCD) does not have CEQA guidelines for projects
in the San Diego Air Basin. Construction emissions for the proposed project were estimated using
the Road Construction Emissions Model (version 7.1.2) model. Operational emissions from the
proposed project would be the same as the current existing emissions. The Road Construction
Emissions Model files are included in the Air Quality Appendix.
a. Less Than Significant Impact.
The proposed project would not include land use changes that would conflict with the long-range
air quality projections of the SDAPCD in the applicable San Diego County Regional Air Quality
Strategy (RAQS). The proposed project would be located within City of Carlsbad roadways and
would not conflict with the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) most recent growth
forecast used to prepare the RAQS. The proposed project would also be consistent with the
policies of the City of Carlsbad General Plan, and therefore would not conflict with or obstruct
implementation of the RAQS.
b.-c. Less Than Significant Impact with Mitigation.
Construction activities for the proposed project would result in short-term impacts on ambient air
quality in the area. Temporary construction emissions would result directly from construction
activities, including those associated with the conventional pipeline construction (i.e., trench
installation), trenchless pipeline construction, and road rehabilitation activities (e.g., paving), and
indirectly from haul truck material deliveries and construction worker commuting patterns.
Pollutant emissions would vary daily depending on the level of activity, the specific operations,
and the prevailing weather. The San Diego Air Basin is considered a basic non-attainment area for
the 8-hour federal standard for ozone (O3), and a non-attainment area for the 1-hour and 8-hour
state standards for O3, and for the 24-hour and annual state standards for particulate matter less
than 10 microns in diameter (PM10) and particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter
(PM2.5). Therefore, construction activities under the proposed project would have the potential to
contribute to a potentially significant amount of airborne particulates to the air basin. The Basin is
in attainment of federal and state standards for carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2),
nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and lead.
The SDAPCD establishes emission thresholds for determining the potential significance of
stationary source projects, which are used in this analysis to determine the potential air quality
impacts of the proposed project. SDAPCD Rule 20.2 establishes significance criteria for non-major
stationary source air pollutant emissions. Although not directly applicable to construction and
mobile emissions, these significance criteria are used as significance criteria for this proposed
project. Because no significance criterion for reactive organic compounds (ROG) is set in Rule
20.2, ROG is assigned a significance criterion equal to the NOx criterion in Rule 20.2, because
they are both ozone precursors. Rule 20.2 also does not contain a threshold from PM2.5.
Because no significance criterion for PM2.5 is set in SDAPCD Rule 20.2, the South Coast Air
Quality Management District (SCAQMD) threshold of 55 pounds per day is used.
The proposed project would not result in substantial long-term air quality impacts. The above
ground odor control units may need a venting control source permit from the SDAPCD. However,
since they are not attached to a treatment plant or lift station they may not need a permit (RCH,
2014). Operation and maintenance of the pipelines would result in routine patrolling and
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
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Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-10
emergency repairs, which would generate a minimal amount of increased traffic, and no-dig
rehabilitations, which would generate negligible emissions. Therefore, operation of the proposed
project would not result in a violation of applicable air quality standards, and impacts would be
less than significant.
For the purposes of estimating construction emissions, construction activities for the proposed
project are broken down into three main activity components, including conventional pipeline
construction (i.e., trench installation), trenchless pipeline construction, and road rehabilitation
activities (e.g., paving). Assumptions on construction equipment types and quantities were derived
from the Delta Diablo Sanitation District Conveyance System Reliability Improvements and Pump
Station Remedial Projects at Bay Point. It is assumed that the conventional pipeline construction
speed would proceed at a maximum rate of approximately 200 feet per day and all pipeline trench
construction activities would be completed over a year period. Trenchless pipeline construction
activities are estimated to occur over a three-month period. It is assumed that the trenchless
pipeline construction activities would commence subsequent to the completion of the
conventional pipeline construction activities. Road rehabilitation activities would occur concurrent
to the conventional and trenchless pipeline construction activities. Compared to open trench
construction, trenchless technologies require less excavation, which can result in a reduction in
construction equipment use, pavement replacement, construction time, and traffic congestion.
Some studies have shown an approximate 80 percent reduction in air emissions with trenchless
technologies due to increased productivity and reduced equipment requirements (Trenchless
International, 2009). This analysis assumes that all pipeline construction utilize conventional
pipeline construction methods, which offers conservative air quality emissions estimates.
Based on an estimated average trench volume of 19,311 feet long by 4 feet wide by 8 feet deep,
it is assumed that up to approximately 237 cubic yards of debris material and soil may need to be
removed from the pipeline alignment per day (at maximum operations) if soils are inappropriate
for backfill. It is also assumed that up to 237 cubic yards of clean soil material would be delivered
and backfilled into the trench per day (at maximum operations) once the pipeline is installed. In
addition, at least 200 feet of pipeline (24-inch and 18-inch) and other materials would need to be
delivered to the pipeline construction site each day. Accounting for all materials that would be
hauled to and from the construction site, it is estimated that up to 12 heavy-duty diesel truck trips
would be required each day.
The assumptions described above were used as input for the Road Construction Emissions Model
(version 7.1.2) run that was conducted for the project. The estimated proposed project
construction emissions are summarized in Table AQ-1. As indicated in table, proposed project-
related construction emissions would not exceed the SDAPCD significance thresholds for criteria
pollutants. Therefore, while the air quality impacts from proposed project could contribute to
existing cumulative air quality impacts, the overall air quality impacts would be considered less
than significant.
Although air quality impacts that would be associated with the Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III
project would be less than significant, the District has committed to incorporating specific project
design features into the project (Appendix A). Implementation of these measures would further
reduce the potential for environmental effects (City of Vista, 2008).
In addition, AQ-1 and AQ-2 below will be applied to the project as mitigation to further reduce the
potential for short-term construction related air quality impacts.
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Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-11
TABLE AQ-1
ESTIMATED EMISSIONS FROM CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES (POUNDS PER DAY)
Maximum Daily Activity ROG NOX CO PM10 PM2.5
Construction Emissions 7 82 32 4 3
Significance Thresholds based upon
SDAPCD Rule 20.3 250 250 550 100 55
Significant? No No No No No
SCAQMD threshold of PM 2.5 is used SDAPCD Rule 20.2 does not contain thresholds applicable for PM2.5.
Note: Refer to Air Quality Appendix for all assumptions used as input to the Road Construction Emissions Model.
d. Less than Significant Impact.
Please also see sections a. and b. above.
Sensitive receptors are populations that are more susceptible to the effects of air pollution than
the population at large, such as the very young, the elderly, and those suffering from certain
illnesses or disabilities. Construction activities along the west end of the proposed pipeline route
would be closest to residential sensitive receptors when construction is approximately 850 feet
from residences on Sapphire Drive. Guests at hotels can also be sensitive to air pollutants and the
construction would be within 50 to 100 feet from the Motel 6 and the Discovery Isle childcare
center on Paseo Del Norte. The construction activities would also be as close as 350 feet to the
Courtyard Hotel and 200 feet to the Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites Hotel. In all cases, the
proposed project’s construction-related diesel particulate impacts are considered less than
significant because of the short-term nature of the construction activities.
Construction activities would entail the use of diesel equipment that would generate emissions of
diesel particulate matter (DPM), which the CARB has categorized as a human carcinogen.
Typically, heath risks are estimated based on a chronic exposure period of 70 years. The Air
Quality indicates that DPM exhaust emissions associated with construction of the proposed
project would be approximately four (4) pounds per day, well below the District’s threshold of 100
pounds per day. Exhaust emissions associated with construction of the proposed project are
relatively low and construction activities would be short-term in nature (as construction activities
would occur within a year period and move during along the project alignment). In addition, these
emissions are well below the typical exposure period of 70 years. As such, it is not anticipated that
exposure to construction-related DPM would result in an elevated health risk; and potential
impacts would be less than significant.
e. Less than Significant Impact.
The proposed project would extend and reroute the Buena Outfall Force Main and gravity sewer, in
part, to eliminate existing odor problems at the industrial park south of Palomar Airport Road.
Potential foul odors from the wastewater contained within the proposed pipelines could potentially
generate objectionable odors that could affect a substantial number of people due to hydrogen
sulfide and other gaseous compounds present in sewage.
An Odor Control Technical Memorandum (DHK Engineers Inc., 2013) was prepared by DHK
Engineers, Inc., which evaluated odor control options. DHK Engineers, Inc. met with District and
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Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-12
City staff to discuss existing force main odor strategies, near-term odor control plans, and
direction on liquid additives. DHK Engineers, Inc. reviewed the following items:
Existing odor data (2008) and flow data (CY2012) provided by the City
Southern California wastewater data for modeling input parameters
Based on the conclusions of the DHK Engineers Inc., the following odor control measures will be
included in the final design of the project:
Up to five active and/or passive odor control units will be installed along the alignment.
Passive units would be located at the transition manhole at Yarrow Street where the force
main transitions to a gravity system and near the drop manhole structure near the Motel 6.
Up to three active odor control units will be installed at the end of the siphon near the
intersection of Palomar Airport Road and Paseo del Norte and near the splitter box
connected to the Vallecitos Land Outfall.
Final locations and odor control unit types will be determined during final design and will
depend on availability of power, right-of-way, visual impacts, and maximum length of air
pipeline.
Manhole inserts will be provided that will include odor control media.
The purpose of the active and passive odor control biofilter scrubbers are to treat and eliminate
odors from the project at critical locations. Through implementation of odor control design
features, the gases and subsequent odor impacts from the proposed project will be treated to
address points of gas and odor accumulation. The proposed improvements will be in accordance
to local County of San Diego Air Pollution Control District (SDAPCD) regulations and permitting. The
District will operate the project in compliance with SDAPCD Rule 51 and the required documents
and information will be included in the project plans and contractor specifications.
The District will obtain all necessary permits from SDAPCD for the proposed active odor control
facilities sited along the alignment.
Implementation of these odor control measures into the final design of the project would ensure
that there are no potentially significant odor impacts with project implementation. Therefore, the
proposed project would not generate any objectionable odors that would affect a substantial
number of people.
Air Quality Mitigation Measures
AQ-1 All construction equipment will be maintained at appropriate mechanical and electronic
tuning levels per the manufacturer's specifications. Diesel equipment, including dump
trucks waiting to deliver or receive soil, gravel, aggregate or other bulk materials, standing
idle for more than five minutes shall be turned off in accordance with the Regulation for In-
Use Off-Road Vehicles (California Code of Regulations Title 13, Article 4.8, Chapter 9,
Section 2449(d)(3)), which took effect June 15, 2008:
(A) Idling Limit—No Vehicles or engines subject to this regulation may idle for
more than five consecutive minutes. Idling of a vehicle that is owned by a
rental company is the responsibility of the renter or lessee, and the rental
agreement should so indicate. The idling limit does not apply to:
1. Idling when queuing,
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2. Idling to verify that the vehicle is in safe operating condition,
3. Idling for testing, servicing, repairing or diagnostic purposes,
4. Idling necessary to accomplish work for which the vehicle was designed
(such as operating a crane),
5. Idling required to bring the machine system to operating temperature, and
6. Idling necessary to ensure safe operation of the vehicle
(B) Written Idling Policy—As of March 1, 2009, medium and large fleets must also
have a written idling policy that is made available to operators of the vehicles
and informs them that idling is limited to five consecutive minutes or less.
(C) Waiver—A fleet owner may apply to the Executive Officer for a waiver to allow
additional idling in excess of 5 consecutive minutes. The Executive Officer
shall grant such a request upon finding that the fleet owner has provided
sufficient justification that such idling is necessary.
AQ-2 Project construction shall implement the following measure in order to minimize
construction-related emissions due to dust:
Limit traffic speeds on unpaved roads to 15 mph.
Level of Significance after Mitigation
All potential air quality impacts would be reduced below significance thresholds with
implementation of the mitigation measures above.
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IV. Biological Resources
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a. Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or
through habitat 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 sensitive natural community identified
in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations or
by the California 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 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 substantially with the movement of any
native resident or migratory fish 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 ordinances
protecting biological resources, such as a tree
preservation policy or ordinance?
f. Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat
Conservation Plan (HCP), Natural Community
Conservation Plan (NCCP), or other approved local,
regional, or state habitat conservation plan?
The discussion below is based on a Biological Resources Letter Report (Helix 2014) which is on
file and available for review at the District.
DISCUSSION
a. Less Than Significant with Mitigation.
The majority of the study area is characterized by urban/developed land associated with the
Palomar Airport Road, Paseo Del Norte, and El Camino Real ROW areas. These areas are primarily
occupied by existing paved road, sidewalk, hardscape features, and sparse non-native ornamental
landscaping. No native habitat or significant stands of non-native vegetation occur within these
portions of the study area. The areas are highly disturbed and routinely used by vehicles and
pedestrians. The areas are further subject to regular noise, nighttime lighting, trash, and other
disturbances associated with transportation-oriented uses. As such, the areas are of very low
biological quality and have extremely limited biological function and value; they are not expected
to support any sensitive biological resources.
As also discussed above, a short segment of the study area occurs within land associated with the
El Camino Real ROW, Palomar Airport Road ROW, and County of San Diego-owned Palomar Airport
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parcels in the eastern portion of the study area. This short segment occurs on and in the
immediate vicinity of the El Camino Real and Palomar Airport Road intersection. At this location, El
Camino Real and Palomar Airport Road are six-lane roadways that are subject to regular, high
levels of traffic. The segment also occurs directly beneath the approach flight path for aircraft
landing at Palomar Airport. As such, the area is subject to high levels of human-related
disturbance, especially noise generated by the transportation and aviation uses.
No special-status plant species were determined to have a high potential to occur due to lack of
suitable habitat and other factors. Additionally, no special-status plant species were observed
during the biological surveys in April and June 2013, which included 100 percent visual coverage
of undeveloped areas during a time of year when most plant species known to the local area are
readily identifiable. Where vegetation is present, it is dominated by non-native plant species
typical of ornamental landscaping and disturbed areas, which do not provide suitable conditions
for special-status plants.
The project site consists primarily of Palomar Airport Road and is predominantly flat with very little
topographic relief. The site is mapped as supporting two soil types according to the U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Web Soil Survey (USDA 2013). They are Huerhuero loam (5 to 9
percent slopes, eroded) and Loamy alluvial land-Huerhuero complex (9 to 50 percent slopes,
severely eroded). The observed surface soils within the site are highly disturbed due to previous
grading and vegetation clearing, ongoing maintenance activities, and placement of landscape
groundcover material. Additional information on soils in the project area is contained in Section VI,
Geology and Soils below. The underlying soils are highly disturbed and not known to be specifically
associated with any special-status plant species. The project would primarily occur within existing
developed areas, would result in limited direct impacts to undeveloped habitat that is highly
disturbed, and is generally unsuitable for special-status plants.
The eastern terminus of the Palomar Airport/El Camino Real project segment occurs in the vicinity
of off-site chaparral habitat that is suitable for special-status plant species. The off-site habitat is
further designated by the USFWS as critical habitat for the federally listed San Diego thornmint
(Acanthomintha ilicifolia). Existing disturbed land separates the project site from the off-site
habitat and no direct impacts are anticipated to occur. If construction activities are not restricted
to designated work areas, inadvertent encroachment into adjacent and off-site sensitive
resources could occur, which could potentially impact special-status plant species and USFWS-
designated critical habitat. In addition, if not properly controlled, stormwater and non-stormwater
runoff from construction work areas has the potential to enter into adjacent sensitive resource
areas, potentially resulting in impacts to special-status plant species and degradation of the
habitat. Last, if appropriate plant species are not selected, activities associated with the
replacement of existing landscaping and, if required, hydroseeding of temporary impact areas
could result in introduction of non-native invasive and exotic plant species to the local area. Non-
native invasive and exotic plants could become established in adjacent sensitive resource areas,
potentially displacing special-status plant species and degrading the habitat. These impacts would
be considered potentially significant and mitigation is required.
The proposed project would be required to comply with the NPDES Construction General Permit
and stormwater management and discharge control requirements. Compliance with existing
regulations would help prevent potential impacts associated with stormwater runoff from
construction work areas.
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Implementation of mitigation measures BIO-1 through BIO-4 below would reduce potentially
significant impacts on special-status plant species and their habitat to less than significant levels.
No special-status animal species were determined to have a high potential to occur. The project
would result in limited direct impacts to existing habitat that is highly disturbed and generally
unsuitable for most special-status animal species. Much of the existing habitat within the areas
planned for construction occurs within land that has been severely degraded and fragmented. The
existing undeveloped land is highly disturbed, surrounded by existing development, locally and
regionally isolated, and relatively small, and would not be expected to support any special-status
animal species.
The Palomar Airport/El Camino Real project site contains trees (i.e., several ornamental pine and
eucalyptus trees) and other vegetation () that provide suitable nesting habitat for common birds,
including raptors, protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and California Fish and
Game Code (CFG Code). Construction of the proposed project could result in the removal or
trimming of trees and other vegetation during the general bird nesting season (January 15
through September 15) and, therefore, could result in impacts to nesting birds in violation of the
MBTA and CFG Code. Direct impacts could occur as a result of removal of vegetation supporting
an active nest. In addition, the eastern terminus of the Palomar Airport/El Camino Real project
segment occurs adjacent to off-site chaparral habitat that is suitable for special-status animal
species. Although coastal sage scrub-associated species such as the federally threatened coastal
California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) are not likely to breed in the off-site
habitat, non-listed sensitive species such as southern California rufous-crowned sparrow
(Aimophila ruficeps canescens) could potentially breed in the off-site habitat. Existing disturbed
land separates the project site from the off-site habitat and no direct impacts are anticipated to
occur. If construction activities are not restricted to designated work areas, inadvertent
encroachment into adjacent and off-site sensitive resources could occur, including potential
breeding territories and nests of special-status bird species. Direct impacts could inadvertently
occur to active nests supporting eggs or chicks. These potential direct impacts would be
considered significant.
If not properly controlled, stormwater and non-stormwater runoff from construction work areas
has the potential to enter into adjacent sensitive resource areas, potentially resulting in
degradation of special-status animal species habitat. Further, if appropriate plant species are not
selected for landscaping and restored areas, non-native invasive and exotic plants could become
established in adjacent sensitive resource areas, potentially degrading special-status animal
species habitat. These potential indirect impacts would be considered significant.
Potential indirect impacts on special-status species associated with construction noise would be
less than significant given existing high noise levels at the project site. The site occurs among
urban areas and along heavily-travelled roadways where noise and other anthropogenic
disturbances are frequent. Transportation and aviation uses at this location generate high levels
of noise at the project site and immediate area. The site occurs within and immediately adjacent
to El Camino Real and Palomar Airport Road, which are both major arterials that experience high
volumes of traffic on a regular basis. In addition, the flight path for aircraft approaching Palomar
Airport occurs directly overhead and further to the east and west of the site. A threshold of 60.0
dBA has been established as a guideline by the USFWS and CDFW for determining potential noise
effects on nesting birds, and most notably, special-status species known to the region such as the
coastal California gnatcatcher and least Bell’s vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus). Noise exceeding 60.0
dBA has the potential to result in nest abandonment and nest failure. Noise measurements taken
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during two time periods in May 2013 and at a location along Palomar Airport Road to the west of
the site recorded average noise levels ranging from 63.8 dBA to 79.8 dBA and maximum noise
levels ranging from 78.0 dBA to 87.3 dBA (Miller 2013). Noise levels are expected to be even
higher at the project site, given its location at the EL Camino Real and Palomar Airport Road
intersection and below the flight path for Palomar Airport. The average and maximum noise levels
for the existing baseline condition exceed the 60.0 dBA threshold, and as such, birds selecting to
nest in the area are already subjected to potential adverse noise effects. These birds would be
expected to have a high tolerance to noise given the existing high levels measured in the area.
The proposed project’s contribution to existing noise levels would not be expected to result in
adverse effects above and beyond what is already occurring as the baseline condition. Therefore,
construction-generated noise would not be expected to result in nest abandonment or nest
failure, and any potential indirect impacts would be less than significant.
Implementation of mitigation measures BIO-1 through BIO-5 below would reduce potentially
significant impacts on special-status animal species and their habitat, including nesting birds, to
less than significant levels.
b. Less Than Significant with Mitigation.
No sensitive natural communities occur within the Palomar Airport Road/El Camino Real project
site. The site supports urban/developed land. The project impacts to vegetation communities are
summarized below within Table Bio-1.
TABLE BIO-1
IMPACTS TO VEGETATION COMMUNITIES
Vegetation
Community
Habitat
Group Existing* Impacts*
Required
Mitigation Proposed
Mitigation Ratio Acreage
Urban/Developed N/A 0.4 <0.1 N/A N/A N/A
TOTAL 0.4 <0.1 N/A N/A N/A
*Areas are presented in acre(s) rounded to the nearest 0.1.
The eastern terminus of the project alignment occurs immediately adjacent to areas characterized
by scrub oak chaparral, which is considered a sensitive natural community and Habitat Group D
type under the Carlsbad HMP. The habitat is further designated by the USFWS as critical habitat
for a listed species. If construction activities are not restricted to designated work areas,
inadvertent encroachment into adjacent and off-site sensitive natural communities could occur. In
addition, if not properly controlled, stormwater runoff from construction work areas has the
potential to enter into adjacent sensitive natural communities. Last, if appropriate plant species
are not selected for landscaping and restored areas, non-native invasive and exotic plants could
become established in adjacent sensitive resource areas, potentially degrading sensitive natural
communities. These impacts would be considered significant.
The western terminus of the Project would be located outside of, and approximately 100 feet
south of, the North County Habitat Bank and would not have any direct or indirect effects on this
Hardline Conservation Area. Biological Resources avoidance and minimization measures (BIO-1,
BIO-2 and BIO-3), included in this MND on Pages 2-19 and 2-20, which would require fencing and
installation of silt barriers near, any open space areas potentially affected by the Project and
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additional contractor/design specifications that are required to be implemented to ensure the
protection of natural resources and the avoidance and minimization of adverse effects.
The proposed project would be required to comply with the NPDES Construction General Permit
and stormwater management and discharge control requirements and the Carlsbad Standard
Urban Storm Water Management Plan (SUSMP). Compliance with existing regulations would help
prevent potential impacts to off-site sensitive natural communities associated with stormwater
runoff from construction work areas.
Implementation of mitigation measures BIO-1 through BIO-4 below would reduce potentially
significant impacts on sensitive natural communities to less than significant levels.
c. Less Than Significant with Mitigation.
No potential jurisdictional waters and wetlands were identified during the general biological
surveys. A shallow, east-west trending, round-bottom swale occurs in the southern portions of the
Palomar Airport/El Camino Real site. This swale is a man-made roadside ditch associated with an
existing storm drain facility within the Palomar Airport Road ROW areas. The round-bottom swale
was confirmed to be isolated within an upland area and did not support an ordinary high water
mark, riparian habitat, dominance of hydrophytic vegetation, wetland hydrology, or other physical
characteristics of a potential jurisdictional wetland or waterway during the surveys. Previous
wetland delineation data further substantiate these findings (Merkel & Associates, Inc. 2009).
Potential jurisdictional waters and wetlands, including federally protected wetlands, are presumed
to be absent from the study area. Therefore, no direct impacts to jurisdictional waters and
wetlands are anticipated to occur.
Potential jurisdictional waters and wetlands occur at several off-site locations in the vicinity of the
study area, namely areas associated with Encinas Creek and unnamed tributaries. If not properly
contained and treated, stormwater and non-stormwater runoff could potentially transport
pollutants from construction sites into stormwater drainage systems and ultimately to
jurisdictional waters and wetlands associated with Encinas Creek and the Pacific Ocean, which
would degrade the water quality of these downstream receiving waters. These potential indirect
impacts would be considered significant.
The proposed project would be required to comply with the NPDES Construction General Permit
and stormwater management and discharge control requirements. Compliance with existing
regulations would help prevent potential impacts associated with stormwater runoff from
construction work areas.
Implementation of mitigation measures BIO-2 and BIO-3 would further reduce potentially
significant impacts on potential jurisdictional waters and wetlands located off-site to less than
significant levels.
d. Less Than Significant Impact.
No known wildlife corridors or linkages occur on or in the immediate vicinity of the PGDSP project
survey area (City of Carlsbad 2004). The study area and immediate vicinity are constrained by
existing developments and do not support habitat that would contribute substantially to the
assembly and function of any local or regional wildlife corridors or linkages. The closest potential
corridor or linkage area occurs as open space and chaparral habitat off-site to the east of the
Palomar Airport/El Camino Real project segment within the study area. The site does not encroach
into the adjacent open space and does not support any habitat that would contribute to animal
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movement functions in the local area. Further, no permanent aboveground developments are
proposed that would serve as a barrier to local animal movement. Therefore, the proposed project
would have no significant impact on wildlife movement and nursery sites and no mitigation is
required.
e. & f. Less Than Significant with Mitigation.
The proposed project occurs within the boundaries of the adopted Carlsbad Habitat Management
Plan (HMP) area, but outside of the HMP Preserve Hardline, Proposed Hardline, and Standards
Area. Based on the results of the April and June 2013 biological surveys, the project is not
expected to result in any impacts to special-status plant or animal species, including HMP covered
species, other listed non-covered species, or narrow endemic species. Further, the project would
not result in impacts to any wildlife corridors or linkages, including lands identified within the
Carlsbad HMP as Linkage Areas or other areas of local or regional wildlife movement importance.
The eastern terminus of the site occurs immediately adjacent to off-site areas characterized by
scrub oak chaparral, which is considered a Habitat Group D under the Carlsbad HMP. These off-
site areas are contained within Core Area #5 for the Carlsbad HMP and provide suitable habitat
for special-status species, including several HMP covered species, non-covered species, and
narrow endemic species (Helix 2014). Measures are proposed herein to ensure avoidance of the
off-site scrub oak chaparral. If appropriate avoidance and minimization measures are not
implemented, project construction and operation could result in potentially significant indirect
impacts to off-site Habitat Group D, including habitat potentially occupied by HMP species.
Compliance with existing regulations would help prevent potential impacts to off-site Habitat
Group D associated with stormwater runoff from construction work areas. Further, implementation
of mitigation measures BIO-1 through BIO-4 above would ensure that construction activities are
restricted to designated work areas and adjacent Habitat Group D is avoided and protected during
project construction and operation.
Therefore, with the implementation of mitigation measures BIO-1 through BIO-4, potentially
significant impacts to Carlsbad HMP resources would be reduced to less than significant levels
and the project would be consistent with the Carlsbad HMP.
Biological Resources Mitigation Measures
BIO-1 In order to avoid impacts to adjacent open space habitats during construction, open space
interfaces will require temporary orange construction fencing which clearly delineates the
edge of the approved limits of grading and clearing and environmentally sensitive areas
beyond. This fencing shall be installed in all areas adjacent to protected open spaces, and
shall be installed prior to construction, and maintained for the duration of construction
activity. Fencing shall be installed in a manner that does not impact habitats to be avoided.
At least seven days prior to initiating project impacts, the final plans and photographs for
initial clearing and grubbing of habitat and project construction shall be submitted to the
District for review and approval. These final plans shall include photographs that show the
fenced limits of impact and all areas to be impacted or avoided. If work occurs beyond the
fenced or demarcated limits of impact, all work in the area shall cease until the problem
has been remedied and mitigation identified, to the satisfaction of a qualified biological
monitor. Temporary orange construction fencing shall be removed upon completion of
construction of the project.
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BIO-2 The District shall install temporary silt barriers along the limits of project impacts (including
construction staging areas and access routes) adjacent to open space habitats to prevent
additional habitat impacts and prevent the spread of silt from the construction zone into
adjacent habitats to be avoided. Silt fencing shall be installed in a manner that does not
impact habitats to be avoided.
BIO-3 In order to adequately protect the adjacent open spaces, the District shall ensure that the
following mitigation measures are implemented during project construction by
incorporating them into the design/contractor specifications of the project:
Employees shall strictly limit their activities, vehicles, equipment and construction
materials to the fenced project footprint;
Pets of project personnel shall not be allowed on the project site;
Disposal or temporary placement of excess fill, brush or other debris shall not be
allowed in waters of the United States or their banks;
All equipment maintenance, staging, and dispensing of fuel, oil, coolant, or any
other such activities shall occur in designated areas within the fenced project
impact limits and in such a manner as to prevent any runoff from entering offsite
open spaces, and shall be shown on the construction plans. Fueling of equipment
shall take place within existing paved areas. Contractor equipment shall be checked
for leaks prior to operation and repaired as necessary. "No-fueling zones" shall be
designated on construction plans; and
Night lighting, if any, of construction staging areas shall be of the lowest
illumination necessary for human safety, selectively placed, shielded, and directed
away from adjacent natural habitats.
BIO-4 The hydroseed mix or landscape mix in areas adjacent to open spaces shall not include
any invasive exotic seeds or plants identified on List A and List B of the California Exotic
Plant Council’s List of Exotic Plants of Greatest Ecological Concern in California, as of
October 1999, and updated if applicable. Implementation of this measure shall be verified
by the District during review of the Erosion Control Plans.
Implementation of mitigation measure BIO-5 would ensure that potential impacts to nesting birds
protected under the MBTA and CFG Code, including raptors, are avoided during project
construction.
BIO-5 In the event that the preferred option of utilizing trenchless construction methods (e.g.,
jack and bore, directional drilling) for pipeline installation between STA 196+00 and STA
201+48 at the intersection of Palomar Airport Road and El Camino Real cannot be
implemented, and activities requiring the direct removal, trimming and/or pruning of the
eucalyptus and pine trees located along the pipeline alignment at this location are
determined necessary for installation, the District shall require that the activities are
performed outside of the general breeding season for migratory birds and raptors, which is
defined as occurring between January 15 and September 15. If activities requiring the
direct removal, trimming and/or pruning of the trees must occur during the general bird
breeding season, the District shall retain a qualified biologist to perform a pre-construction
survey of the trees to confirm the absence of active nests belonging to migratory birds and
raptors afforded protection under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and California Fish and
Game Code. The pre-construction survey shall be performed no more than three days prior
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to the commencement of removal, trimming, and/or pruning of the eucalyptus and pine
trees. If the qualified biologist determines that no active migratory bird or raptor nests
occur, the activities shall be allowed to proceed without any further requirements. If the
qualified biologist determines that an active migratory bird or raptor nest is present, no
impacts shall occur until the young have fledged the nest and the nest is confirmed to no
longer be active, as determined by the qualified biologist. Implementation of this measure
to ensure compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and California Fish and Game
Code shall be verified by the District.
Level of Significance after Mitigation
The mitigation measures identified above would reduce potential impacts to biological resources
to a level that is less than significant, and no residual impacts would occur.
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V. Cultural Resources
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
a. Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of a historical resource as defined in
§15064.5?
b. Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of an archaeological resource pursuant
to §15064.5?
c. Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological
resource or site or unique geological feature?
d. Disturb any human remains, including those interred
outside of formal cemeteries?
The discussion below is based on a Cultural Resources Survey and Letter Report (Affinis, 2013)
which is on file and available for review at the District.
DISCUSSION
a.–d. Less than Significant with Mitigation.
A cultural resources study was initially conducted by Affinis in 2010 for the eastern portion of the
Project, from the intersection of Palomar Airport Road and El Camino Real westerly to a short
distance east of the intersection with Aviara Parkway/College Boulevard. The western portion of
the alignment from the intersection of Palomar Airport Road at the College Boulevard/Aviara
Parkway intersection to the project’s western terminus was surveyed by Affinis in April 2013.
In February 2010, Affinis archaeologists conducted a records search at the South Coastal
Information Center (SCIC) at San Diego State University for the project area as defined at that time
and a ½-mile radius around it to supplement in-house records from SCIC and the San Diego
Museum of Man. The Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) was contacted for a search of
their Sacred Lands Files in January 2010. The senior archaeologist discussed the Project with
Clint Linton of Red Tail Monitoring and Research (Kumeyaay) and Cami Mojado of Saving Sacred
Sites (Luiseño).
A field check of the eastern portion of the Project was conducted by Andrew Giletti of Affinis and
Cami Mojado of Saving Sacred Sites on January 25, 2010. Mr. Giletti and Ms. Mojado surveyed
the portions of the Project alignment along Palomar Airport Road for which no previous survey
reports could be found. In April 2013, an updated records search update was conducted at SCIC
covering the entire Project alignment and a ½-mile radius around it. The NAHC was contacted for
a Sacred Lands File search for the entire alignment as well. On April 25, 2013, Kristina Davison of
Affinis and Cami Mojado of Saving Sacred Sites conducted a field survey of the western portion of
the Project alignment.
Dozens of previous archaeological surveys and studies have been conducted within ½ mile of the
Project, including surveys of portions of the alignment along Palomar Airport Road (Cheever and
Gallegos 1987; Smith 1990; WESTEC 1987) and the intersection of Palomar Airport Road and El
Camino Real (Gallegos et al. 1999; Smith 1990). A testing program was conducted at one site on
the south side of Palomar Airport Road (CA-SDI-10,876) in conjunction with improvements to the
roadway and an adjacent stream channel (Gallegos and Pigniolo 1988). It is likely that the entire
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Project area was surveyed in conjunction with environmental review for improvements to Palomar
Airport Road, the Palomar Oaks development, and other development projects. However, there is
a segment for which no reports of surveys were on file at SCIC. This is the segment surveyed by
Affinis and Saving Sacred Sites in 2010. Thirty-five archaeological sites and four isolates have
been recorded within ½ mile of the project area, none within the Project area itself. Twenty-eight
of the sites recorded in the vicinity contain shell; in some cases, the sites are light shell scatters,
in others, the site includes a dense shell midden. Some of the sites with shell also include
artifacts, and three of them were described as habitation sites, at least one of which included
human burials. Deep cultural deposits were noted at several sites. Three of the sites in the vicinity
consist of bedrock milling slicks. Three sites were recorded as scatters of flaked lithic artifacts,
one site consists of ground stone fragments found during paleontological monitoring, and two
shell scatters were later determined to be paleontological in nature. The isolates include a
metate, a flake, a core, and a shell fragment. All culture periods seem to be represented in the
area; various sites were noted as San Dieguito, Archaic, and Late Prehistoric.
The only archaeological site recorded adjacent to the project alignment is CA-SDI-10,876. This site
was recorded during a survey in conjunction with proposed road improvements and a storm drain
along Palomar Airport Road (Cheever and Gallegos 1987). CA-SDI-10,876 was described as a
shell midden with abundant marine shell and approximately 20 pieces of flaked stone debitage on
the surface. “Indications of a subsurface deposit were noted in erosional cuts. Heavy disturbance
was noted along the north and eastern perimeter of the site” (Gallegos and Pigniolo 1988:2-1). A
testing program was conducted at the site, which included nine shovel test pits, one test unit, and
two backhoe trenches (Gallegos and Pigniolo 1988). The excavation unit and shovel test pits
yielded abundant shell, as well as Tizon Brown Ware pottery, flakes and debitage, a flaked stone
tool, 1 stone bowl fragment, and two other ground stone fragments. Historic material included
glass, metal, plastic, and wood, as well as road gravel (Gallegos and Pigniolo 1988). “Backhoe
trenching was conducted to assess stratigraphic integrity… The trenching revealed that the native
subsoil and topsoil were buried by 1 to 2 m of fill” (Gallegos and Pigniolo 1988:3-3). CA-SDI-
10,876 was determined not to be a significant cultural resource. “The cultural midden of SDi-
10876 was moved from another locality perhaps in Carlsbad to the present setting, and as such
lacks integrity” (Gallegos and Pigniolo 1988:3-7).
During the survey of the western portion of the Project in April 2013, one possible quartz mano
fragment was found and collected. Upon further examination in the lab, the item was determined
not to be an artifact. The NAHC was contacted in 2010 for a check of their Sacred Lands File with
regard to the eastern portion of the Project. The file check did not indicate the presence of Native
American cultural resources within 1/2 mile of the Project as it was defined at that time.
A Sacred Lands File search for the entire Project alignment was requested from the NAHC in April
2013. This search also “failed to indicate the presence of Native American traditional cultural
place(s) in the project site location.” The project area is quite disturbed, and no surface evidence
of archaeological resources would be anticipated, with the possible exception of material in fill
soils that have been placed along the alignment in conjunction with development of Palomar
Airport Road, such as is the case at CA-SDI-10,876. There is a possibility of cultural resources
buried beneath fill soils, with no surface evidence.
No archaeological material has been identified within or adjacent to the Project. Based on this, no
impacts to cultural resources are anticipated. However, there is a potential for unknown buried
cultural resources in native soil within the Project area, such as beneath fill soils and in areas of
alluvium/colluvium. Sites with relatively deep midden deposits have been recorded in the vicinity,
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including sites with human remains. Therefore, monitoring of excavation/trenching in native soils
is recommended. The monitoring program would include a Qualified Archaeologist and a Native
American (Luiseño) monitor. If cultural resources are encountered, the monitors would have the
authority to temporarily halt or redirect grading/trenching while the artifacts or features are
assessed and appropriate mitigation measures are implemented, if necessary. The mitigation
measures are detailed below.
Cultural Resources Mitigation Measures
CR-1 Prior to the start of any grading/trenching/ground-disturbing work on the Project, the
City/District shall enter into a pre-excavation agreement with the San Luis Rey Band of
Luiseño Mission Indians (San Luis Rey Band), the local Luiseño Native American tribe. The
purpose of this agreement shall be to formalize protocols and procedures between the
District and the San Luis Rey Band for the protection and treatment of, including but not
limited to, Native American human remains, funerary objects, cultural and religious
landscapes, ceremonial items, traditional gathering areas and cultural items, located
and/or discovered through a monitoring program in conjunction with the construction of
the proposed project, including additional archaeological surveys and/or studies,
excavations, geotechnical investigations, grading, and all other ground disturbing activities.
CR-2 Prior to the start of any grading/trenching/ground-disturbing work on the Project, the
District shall provide written and signed verification to the District Manager stating that a
Luiseño Native American Monitor and a Qualified Archaeologist have been retained at the
District’s expense to implement the monitoring program, as described in the pre-
excavation agreement.
CR-3 The Qualified Archaeologist shall maintain ongoing consultation with the Luiseño Native
American Monitor during ground disturbing activities. The requirement for the monitoring
program shall be noted on all applicable construction documents, including demolition
plans, grading plans, etc. The District shall notify the District Manager in writing of the start
and end of all ground disturbing activities subject to monitoring.
CR-4 The Luiseño Native American Monitor and Qualified Archaeologist shall attend all
applicable pre-construction meetings with the General Contractor and/or associated
Subcontractors to present the monitoring program. The Luiseño Native American Monitor
and Qualified Archaeologist shall be present on-site during grubbing, excavating, trenching,
and/or any other ground disturbing activities, to identify evidence of potential
archaeological resources. This includes excavation/trenching beneath existing artificial
fills. If fill materials are used they shall be absent of any and all cultural resources. The
Luiseño Native American Monitor and Qualified Archaeologist shall have the authority to
halt monitoring activities in areas where excavation is in formational soils and there is
potential for cultural material to be encountered.
CR-5 The Qualified Archaeologist or the Luiseño Native American Monitor may halt ground
disturbing activities if unknown archaeological artifact deposits or cultural features are
discovered. Ground disturbing activities shall be directed away from these deposits to
allow a determination of potential importance. Isolates and clearly non-significant deposits
will be minimally documented in the field, and before grading, excavation, or trenching
proceeds these items shall be given to the San Luis Rey Band so that they may be
repatriated at a later date. If a determination is made that the unearthed artifact deposits
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Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-25
or cultural features are considered potentially significant, the San Luis Rey Band shall be
notified and consulted with in regards to the respectful and dignified treatment of those
resources. The avoidance and protection of the significant cultural resource and/or unique
archaeological resource is the preferable mitigation. If however, a data recovery plan is
authorized by the District as the Lead Agency under CEQA, the San Luis Rey Band shall be
notified and consulted regarding the drafting and finalization of any such recovery plan. For
significant artifact deposits or cultural features that are part of a data recovery plan, an
adequate artifact sample to address research avenues previously identified for sites in the
area will be collected using professional archaeological collection methods. If the Qualified
Archaeologist collects such resources, the Luiseño Native American monitor must be
present during any testing or cataloging of those resources. Moreover, if the Qualified
Archaeologist does not collect the cultural resources that are unearthed during the ground
disturbing activities, the Luiseño Native American Monitor may, at their discretion, collect
said resources and provide them to the San Luis Rey Band for respectful and dignified
treatment in accordance with the Tribe’s cultural and spiritual traditions.
CR-6 Following completion of the construction, a monitoring report and/or evaluation report, if
appropriate, which describes the results, analysis and conclusions of the archaeological
monitoring program (e.g., data recovery plan) shall be submitted by the Qualified
Archaeologist, along with the Luiseño Native American monitor’s notes and comments, to
the Director of Community Development for approval.
CR-7 As specified by California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5, if human remains are
found on the project site during ground disturbing activities or during archaeological work,
the person responsible for the excavation, or his or her authorized representative, shall
immediately notify the San Diego County Coroner’s office by telephone. No further
excavation or disturbance of the site or any nearby area reasonably suspected to overlie
adjacent remains shall occur until the Coroner has made the necessary findings as to
origin and disposition pursuant to Public Resources Code 5097.98. If such a discovery
occurs, a temporary construction exclusion zone shall be established surrounding the area
of the discovery so that the area would be protected, and consultation and treatment could
occur as prescribed by law. By law, the Coroner will determine within two working days of
being notified if the remains are subject to his or her authority. If the Coroner recognizes
the remains to be Native American, he or she shall contact the Native American Heritage
Commission (NAHC) within 24 hours. The NAHC will make a determination as to the Most
Likely Descendent. If Native American remains are discovered, the remains shall be kept in
situ, or in a secure location in close proximity to where they were found, and the analysis of
the remains shall only occur on-site in the presence of a Luiseño Native American Monitor.
Level of Significance after Mitigation
Implementation of the mitigation measures above would reduce potential impacts to cultural
resources to a level that is less than significant, and no residual impacts would occur.
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VI. Geology and Soils
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a. Expose people or structures to potential substantial
adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or
death involving:
1. 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 known fault? Refer to
Division of Mines and Geology Special Pub 42.
2. Strong seismic ground shaking?
3. Seismic-related ground failure, including
liquefaction?
4. Landslides?
b. Result in substantial soil erosion, or the loss of
topsoil?
c. Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable,
or that would become unstable as a result of the
Project, and potentially result in on- or off-site
landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction
or collapse?
d. 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?
e. 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?
The discussion below is summarized and based on the findings contained within the Preliminary
Geologic and Geotechnical Investigation-Westerly Segment prepared by TerraCosta Consulting
Group (April 25, 2013) and the Geotechnical Design Report prepared by TerraCosta Consulting
Group (October 13, 2009). Both reports are on file and available for review at the District.
DISCUSSION
a1. No Impact.
The purpose of the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act is to mitigate the hazard of surface
faulting by preventing the construction of buildings used for human occupancy over an area with
known faults. Unlike damage from ground shaking, which can occur at great distances from the
fault, impacts from fault rupture are limited to the immediate area of the fault zone where the
fault breaks along the ground surface. The project site is not located within an Alquist-Priolo
Special Studies Zone; therefore, impacts from ground rupture within the project area would be
expected to be low, and no direct impacts would arise from project implementation.
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a2. Less than Significant Impact.
The project area, like most of Southern California, is subject to strong ground shaking from
seismic events. The ground motion characteristics of any future earthquakes in the region would
depend on the characteristics of the generating fault, the distance to the epicenter, the
magnitude of the earthquake, and the site-specific geologic conditions. There are no known active
or potentially active faults, which intercept the project site; however, major faults in the region
could be a source of a strong seismic-related movement along the project site. The Geotechnical
Design Report (2009) concluded the project risk associated with fault rupture is low, which
translates into a less than significant impact under CEQA.
a3. Less than Significant Impact.
Liquefaction is a phenomenon in which a saturated cohesion less soil causes a temporary
transformation of the soil to a fluid mass, resulting in a loss of support. The proposed project
located on soil deposits that have a very low to negligible susceptibility to liquefaction; and would
therefore not expose people and structures to potential seismic-related ground failure.
Although significant surface water and groundwater flows are not anticipated to be encountered
along the majority of the alignment, it is possible that local perched groundwater conditions may
be encountered, depending on seasonal rainfall conditions and local irrigation practices
(TerraCosta, 2009). Due to the dense nature of the soil materials underlying the site and the lack
of near surface water, the potential for liquefaction or seismically-induced settlement at the site is
considered low. A less than significant impact from liquefaction would be expected to occur with
project implementation.
a4. Less than Significant Impact.
The Geotechnical Design Report (2009) investigation included review of aerial photographs,
published reports, geologic maps, and site reconnaissance, which did not reveal any features
indicative of ancient natural landslides crossing the proposed pipeline alignment. However, review
of DMG Open File Report No. 95-04, Landslide Hazards in the Northern Part of San Diego
Metropolitan Area, San Diego County, California, Landslide Hazard Identification Map No. 35
(Plate 35D, Encinitas Quadrangle), dated 1995, stated the site is located within an area that is
designated Landslide Susceptibility 3-1, making the area generally susceptible to landsliding. The
Geotechnical Design Report (2009) concluded that assuming the extensive grading and
development along, and adjacent to, Palomar Airport Road and the proposed pipeline alignment
has mitigated the previously identified landslides. Therefore, a less than significant impact from
landslide would be expected to occur with project implementation.
b. Less than Significant Impact.
The project alignment is located within the Peninsular Ranges Geomorphic Province. Located
along the westerly margin of this province are the coastal terraces that form that coastal plain of
San Diego County. The geology of the coastal plain is characterized by thick sequences of
interbedded Eocene marine siltstones, claystones, sandstones, and conglomerates covered by a
veneer of recently developed soils. At depth, these deposits are underlain by Jurassic to
Cretaceous-age metavolcanic and granitic rocks, which rise toward the east and north. The
Geotechnical Design Report (2009) encountered along the entire alignment, the middle Eocene-
age Santiago Formation consists of light colored, poorly bedded, poorly indurated, fine- to
medium-grained sandstone interbedded with siltstone and claystone. As discussed in Section
4.5.2.3 of the City of Vista GP 2030 Update Program EIR, Santiago Formation deposits have a
high paleontological sensitivity. High sensitivity is assigned to geologic formations known to
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contain paleontological localities with rare, well-preserved, and/or critical fossil materials for
stratigraphic or paleoenvironmental interpretation, and fossils providing important information
about the paleobiology and phylogeny (evolutionary history) of wildlife and plant groups. Generally
speaking, highly sensitive formations are known to produce, or have the potential to produce
vertebrate fossils. To ensure no significant impacts to paleontological resources occur with project
implementation, Cultural Resources Mitigation Measures 1-6 have been incorporated into the
proposed project as noted above in Section V. Cultural Resources above.
Alluvium and colluvium soils, which are deposited in the bottoms of the natural drainages, consist
predominantly of unconsolidated silts, clays, sands, and occasional gravels derived from the local
hillsides. As well as, fill soils covering much of the alignment, with estimated depths ranging from
0 to 25+ feet. These fill soils, which are typically derived locally from the above-described
formational units, consist predominantly of silty sands and sandy clays to clayey sands.
Soils would be removed during excavation operations associated with construction of the
proposed project. Because the majority of the project components would be located within
roadways and existing right of way there would be no significant impacts related to the loss of
topsoil.
Regardless, standard design features and construction measures incorporated in the project (as
outlined in Table 2-3 of the Program EIR and listed as Project Design Features in Appendix A of
this MND/IS) include compliance with the Construction General Permit which requires the
development and implementation of a SWPPP (refer to Hydrology and Water Quality section for
inclusion to the mitigation program) well as implementation of BMPs. Because the proposed
projects would result in the disturbance to approximately 1.8 acres of land, the District will comply
with BMP’s and prepare a SWPPP. General BMPs include erosion controls, sediment controls,
tracking controls, wind erosion control, non-stormwater management, and materials and water
management. Implementation of these BMPs and SWPPP would ensure that erosion impacts
would remain below a level of significance (City of Vista, 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update Final
Program EIR, 2008).
Short-term erosion effects during the construction phase of the project would be prevented
through implementation of the sedimentation control plan, which includes the implementation of
standard practices such as sandbags, silt fencing, and temporary detention to control on-site and
off-site erosion. The project would also be required to implement the recommendations in the
Preliminary Geologic and Geotechnical Report (2013) and the Geotechnical Design Report (2009)
[which are listed within Appendix A of this MND/IS),) to ensure that potential soil erosion effects
are minimized.
c. Less than Significant Impact.
Please also refer to responses a3 and b above. The Palomar Airport Road/El Camino Real site is
predominantly flat with very little topographic relief. Elevations range from approximately 296 feet
above mean sea level (amsl) in the eastern portion of the site to approximately 283 feet amsl in
the western portion. No major land features characterize the site. A shallow, east-west trending,
swale occurs in the southern portions of the site. This swale is a man-made roadside ditch
associated with an existing storm drain facility within the Palomar Airport Road ROW areas. The
round-bottom swale was confirmed to be isolated within an upland area and does not support an
ordinary high water mark, riparian habitat, dominance of hydrophytic vegetation, wetland
hydrology, or other physical characteristics of a potential jurisdictional wetland or waterway.
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The site is mapped as supporting two soil types according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA) Web Soil Survey (USDA 2013). They are Huerhuero loam (5 to 9 percent slopes, eroded)
and Loamy alluvial land-Huerhuero complex (9 to 50 percent slopes, severely eroded). The
observed surface soils within the site are highly disturbed as a result of previous grading and
vegetation clearing, ongoing maintenance activities, and placement of landscape groundcover
material. Construction of the project would not increase the potential for on-site or off-site soil
erosion, landslides, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, collapse, or shrinking and swelling
(due to soil expansion) to occur. Before construction begins, the District or contractor is required
to prepare a SWPPP and implement standard erosion control measures and stormwater
construction BMPs (through the grading permit process) that would minimize potentially
significant impacts from soil erosion during construction. The Geotechnical Design Report (2009)
concluded that the proposed project is located on soil deposits that have a very low to negligible
susceptibility to liquefaction. Therefore, with the incorporation and adherence to the
recommendations of the geotechnical report in project design and construction, the potential for
subsidence, lateral spreading, landslide, or liquefaction would be less than significant.
d. Less than Significant Impact.
Expansive soils generally consist of certain clay materials that occur naturally, and are generally
found in areas that historically were flood plain or lake areas. Expansive soil is subject to shrinking
and swelling. The amount of shrink and swell varies in proportion to the amount of moisture
present in the soil. These types of soil characteristics can pose a threat to overlying structures.
According to the Geotechnical Design Report, the clayey portions of the existing fills, the
colluvium, and the Santiago Formation are considered expansive. As such, the use of these
expansive soils should be restricted to general fill, and should not be used as backfill around
pipes in accordance with the recommendations of the geotechnical report and impacts would be
less than significant.
e. No Impact.
The proposed project would tie into existing sewers, avoiding the need to use septic tanks or
alternative wastewater disposal systems. As a result, significant impacts would not occur with
project development.
Geology and Soils Mitigation Measures
None required.
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Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-30
VII. Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a. Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or
indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the
environment?
b. Conflict with an applicable plan, policy, or regulation
adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of
greenhouse gases?
The discussion below is based in part on the findings contained within the Air Quality and
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Technical Report (RCH Group, 2014) prepared for the proposed
project. This report is on file and available for review at the District.
DISCUSSION
a. Less than Significant Impact.
The County of San Diego has prepared guidelines for analysis of GHG emissions (Guidelines for
Determining Significance and Report Format and Content Requirements, 2013) that include
screening criteria that identify projects that would not require a full Greenhouse Gas (GHG)
emissions analysis. Projects that fall under the screening criteria would be exempt from GHG
analysis because they would produce GHG emissions of less than 2,500 million tons of carbon
dioxide equivalent (MT CO2e) per year. The proposed pipeline (approximately 3.7 miles in length)
falls under the screening criteria for a new pipeline of no more than 11 miles; that would disturb
no more than 81 acres of land; and have no more than 3,100 cubic yards per day of soil hauling.
This pipeline project would be smaller than each of the criteria. Therefore, no further GHG analysis
is required for the proposed project. However, GHG emissions from construction were estimated
to ensure the project would produce GHG emissions of less than 2,500 MT CO2e per year.
The Road Construction Emissions Model (version 7.1.2) was used with proposed project
assumptions to calculate the air quality criteria pollutants, and the Model also calculated GHG
emissions from the pipeline construction. Construction GHG emissions are reported as CO2
equivalent (CO2e) emission levels. Construction-related calculations include emissions from
numerous sources, including diesel and gas mobile construction equipment associated with
trenching and installation of the pipelines, and asphalt off-gassing. As shown in Table GHG-1,
construction GHG emissions would be approximately 1,265 metric tons per year.
The proposed project’s incremental contribution to global climate change would not be considered
cumulatively significant. As such, the proposed project’s project-specific and cumulative
contributions of GHG emissions are less than significant.
TABLE GHG-1
POTENTIAL PROJECT RELATED GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
Annual Emissions Construction-Related Emissions
(Metric Tons of CO2e)
Proposed Project 1,265
San Diego County Screening Criteria* 2,500
Significant?* No
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b. Less than Significant Impact.
In response to Executive Order (EO) S-3-05 (June 2005), which declared California’s vulnerability
to climate change, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, Assembly Bill 32 (AB 32)
was signed into effect on September 27, 2006. In passing the bill, the California Legislature found
that “Global warming poses a serious threat to the economic well-being, public health, natural
resources, and the environment of California…” (California Health & Safety Code, Division 25.5,
Part 1). Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions that contribute to global climate change include CO2,
methane, nitrous oxide, hydro fluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulfur hexafluoride. Emissions
of CO2 occur largely from combustion of fossil fuels. The major categories of fossil fuel combustion
CO2 sources can be broken into sectors for residential, commercial, industrial, transportation, and
electricity generation. The transportation sector includes all motor gasoline and diesel fuel
combustion, and the GHG emissions of this sector are not split into activities or uses (i.e., there is
no separate estimate for the level of GHG emissions caused by gasoline or diesel fuel combustion
related to statewide construction activities). Other GHG emissions such as methane and nitrous
oxide are also tracked by state inventories but occur in much smaller quantities. The global
warming potential of methane is about 21 times that of CO2. When quantifying GHG emissions,
the different global warming potentials of GHG pollutants are usually taken into account by
normalizing their rates to an equivalent CO2 emission rate (shown as CO2e).
There are no City of Carlsbad plans or policies regarding GHG emissions from construction.
However, as noted in section a) above, GHG emissions during project construction were estimated
to be below the San Diego County screening size for projects requiring full GHG analysis. In
addition, the project would not conflict with the State’s ability to reach the overall goals of AB 32
because of the minimal amount of overall GHG emissions (estimated at 1,265 MT CO2e).
Therefore, the project would not conflict with an applicable plan, policy, or regulation adopted for
the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases. Impacts would be less than
significant.
Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures
None required.
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VIII. Hazards and Hazardous
Materials
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a. Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through the routine transport,
use, or disposal of hazardous materials?
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?
c. Emit hazardous emissions or handle
hazardous or acutely hazardous materials,
substances, or waste within one-quarter mile
of an existing or proposed school?
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?
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?
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?
g. Impair implementation of or physically
interfere with an adopted emergency
response plan or emergency evacuation plan?
h. 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?
The discussion below is based partially on research and analysis of hazards and hazardous
materials provided in the Preliminary Geotechnical Report prepared by Terra Costa Consulting
Group, April 2013. This report is on file and available for review at the District.
DISCUSSION
a. – c. Less than Significant Impact.
The Carlsbad Fire Department enforces local, State, and federal hazardous materials regulations
for the city. City regulations include securing of hazardous materials containers to prevent spills,
and spill containment and mitigation. In addition, the State Fire Marshal enforces pipeline safety
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regulations, and the federal government enforces hazardous materials transport pursuant to its
interstate commerce regulation authority. Compliance with these requirements is mandatory as
standard permitting conditions, and would minimize the potential for the accidental release or
upset of hazardous materials, thus ensuring public safety. Therefore, compliance with the above
referenced requirements would result in less than significant impacts with respect to the creation
of significant hazards to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and
accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment.
Furthermore, the project would not generate, store, dispose of, or transport large quantities of
hazardous substances during construction or operations. Construction equipment that would be
used to build the proposed project has the potential to release oils, greases, solvents, and other
finishing materials through accidental spills. However, implementation of existing federal, State,
and local regulations pertaining to hazardous materials handling and storage, impacts from
reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions during the project construction and
operations would be less than significant.
Operation of the project would not expose on-site users or the surrounding community to any
health hazards from hazardous materials, and no significant impacts would occur. Operation of
the project would not result in the generation, storage, disposal, or transportation of hazardous
materials. Based on the regulatory requirements pertaining to hazards materials, the proposed
project would not be expected to result in significant hazardous impacts.
The County of San Diego has indicated that this project will be within 1,000 feet of the closed
Palomar Airport Landfill. The County has provided a map and monitoring report showing the
landfill limits. The map (contained in Appendix E of the 2013 Preliminary Geologic and
Geotechnical Report) shows the area where the proposed pipeline crosses Palomar Airport will be
outside of Unit 3 of the actual landfill. Further, there is a monitoring well (MW-7) at the southwest
corner of Palomar Airport Road and El Camino Real, and the report stated that based on the
monitoring all offsite structures appeared to be adequately protected from migrating landfill-
generated methane gas. This information will be included in the final specifications to the
Contractor.
There are no schools within one-quarter mile of the project alignment and the proposed project
would not emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials,
substances, or waste. Consequently, project development would not create any significant
hazardous impacts to schools.
d. Less Than Significant with Mitigation.
The entire project site has been previously disturbed or developed. As part of Terra Costa’s
geotechnical investigations, they reviewed the California State Water Resources Control Board,
Geotracker Website (http://geotracker.waterboards.ca.gov) for nearby active environmental clean-
up sites. While their review did not indicate any currently open/active cases, there is the
possibility that contaminated soils may remain exist that could require special handling and
disposal. The projectalignment as of the 60% Design has been determined. Based on final
geotechnical analysis and recommendation, there are no significant geotechnical-related issued
that would adversely influence the project design.
A Community Health and Safety Plan (HASP) has been developed by a Certified Industrial
Hygienist for this project which establishes the protocol for safe removal and disposal of any
hazardous materials encountered during project construction. While hazardous materials are not
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anticipated to be encountered during construction, a mitigation measure has been included to
address a condition in the event this does occur. With implementation of mitigation measure HM-
1, impacts would be reduced to less than significant levels with project implementation.
No environmental concerns were observed during on-site reconnaissance. No evidence of release
of hazardous materials, sumps, Underground Storage Tanks, past subsurface investigations, or
adverse site usage was identified on the project site.
No current or historical recognized environmental conditions (RECs) were identified by Terra Costa
Consulting Group. There are no structures on-site containing Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM)
or Lead Based Paint (LBP) on-site in the form of flooring and roofing materials, windows, doors,
walls, and doorframes. Therefore, no impacts would occur.
A record search (http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/SiteCleanup/Cortese_List.cfm - accessed March 30,
2010) indicted that the project alignment is not located on a site which is included on a list of
hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5. The
provisions in Government Code Section 65962.5 are commonly referred to as the "Cortese List.”
The Hazardous Waste and Substances Sites “Cortes List” is a planning document used by the
State, local agencies and developers to comply with the California Environmental Quality Act
requirements in providing information about the location of hazardous materials release sites.
Government Code section 65962.5 requires the California Environmental Protection Agency to
develop at least annually an updated Cortese List.
While the project site was not identified on any of the databases, eight off-site properties were
identified from the database search. However, none of these adjacent properties poses a
significant environmental risk to the subject site due to their status, and location relative to the
project site. Therefore, no significant hazard or to the public or environment from a site listed
pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 is anticipated with implementation of the project.
e.-h. No Impact.
The project alignment is located directly south of McClellan-Palomar Airport and within the Airport
Influence Area (AIA) (Carlsbad General Plan and McClellan-Palomar Airport Land Use Compatibility
Plan). McClellan-Palomar Airport is a general aviation, publicly owned airport facility located in the
Carlsbad vicinity. The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority (SDCRAA) acts as the Airport
Land Use Commission (ALUC) for the San Diego region as provided in Section 21670.3 of the
California Public Utilities Code, and is charged with developing Airport Land Use Compatibility
Plans (ALUCPs) for each airport in the County. SDCRAA prepared an ALUCP for the McClellan-
Palomar Airport in order to: (1) provide for the orderly growth of the airport and the area
surrounding the airport; and (2) safeguard the general welfare of the inhabitants within the vicinity
of the airport and the public in general (SDCRAA 2004). The most recent ALUCP was adopted in
January 2010 and amended in March 2010.
The ALUCP identifies an Airport Influence Area (AIA) to designate the general area in which current
and future airport-related noise, over flight, safety, and/or airspace protection factors may affect
land uses or necessitate restrictions on the uses. Implementation of the ALUCP is intended to
reduce the adverse impacts from aircraft noise, limit the increase in the number of people
exposed to airport approach hazards, and ensure that no structures are erected that are deemed
by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to be hazards and that no obstructions are erected
that either individually or cumulatively cause and adverse safety effect on air navigation as
determined by the FAA (City of Vista, 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update Program EIR, 2008).
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-35
Due to the nature of the project which is a short-term, linear underground pipeline project which
would be constructed within existing roadways, project construction and operation would not
affect the operation of the airport nor would the project be affected by airport operations;
consequently, development of the project would not create any airport land use compatibility
impacts for the reasons detailed below.
Large fixed cranes (such as those being used to construct the seawater desalination project) are
not required for project pipeline installation and general construction activities because:
1. The pipeline diameters for this project are considerably smaller (24 inch versus 48 inch or
greater), permitting narrow trench.
2. The Project will not construct any permanent above grade structures in the airport
approach opposed to the multi-story structure at the desalination complex.
3. The proposed depth of the pipeline is significantly less facilitating the use of smaller
equipment. The list of anticipated equipment to be used for pipeline construction is listed
below on page 2-51.
Preliminary coordination with FAA codes and ordinances imply that project construction activities
and equipment will not be categorized as temporary obstructions based on the existing
topographical features of the area and the available horizontal distance from construction
activities from the end of runway. A project analysis has been submitted to the FAA and no
significant impacts are anticipated.
The proposed project would not require the closure of any public or private streets or roadways. A
traffic control plan would be prepared prior to construction to ensure that project construction
activities do not impede access of emergency vehicles to the project or any surrounding areas,
and it would provide all required emergency access in accordance with the requirements of the
Carlsbad Fire Department. With incorporation of the traffic control measures and adherence to
applicable regulations and SCA’s (See Appendix A), the project would not significantly impair
implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency
evacuation plan. As a result, no significant impacts to emergency response would occur.
The project site is not identified as being located within a Fire Hazard Severity Zone on the
Carlsbad Draft Fire Hazard Severity Zones Map prepared by the California Department of Forest
and Fire Protection’s Fire and Resource Assessment Program, which is incorporated into the
citywide GIS. Fire Hazard Severity Zone Maps are intended to be used for implementing wildland-
urban interface (WUI) building standards for new construction; natural hazard real estate
disclosure; 100-foot defensible space clearance requirements around buildings; property
development standards, including road widths, water supply, and signage; and consideration in
general plans. Because the site is not located within an identified fire hazard severity zone, no
significant impacts from wildfires would occur.
Hazards and Hazardous Materials Mitigation Measures
HM-1 The District shall ensure that all trash, debris, and waste materials are disposed of off-site,
in accordance with current local, state, and federal disposal regulations, including any
containers which may contain paint. Any hazardous materials which may be potentially
encountered during construction will be evaluated prior to removal and disposal consistent
with the construction HASP and throughout daily construction operations.. Any buried
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-36
trash/debris shall be evaluated by a Qualified Environmental Professional (as defined by
40 Code of Federal Regulation Section 312.10) prior to removal.
Level of Significance after Mitigation
The mitigation measure identified above would reduce potential impacts associated with hazards
and hazardous materials to a level that is less than significant. Therefore, no significant
unavoidable adverse impacts relating to these resources would occur
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-37
IX. Hydrology and Water Quality
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a. Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge
requirements, including but not limited to increasing
pollutant discharges to receiving waters?
b. Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or
interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such
that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a
lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the
production 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)?
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 off-site?
d. Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern 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 flooding on- or off-site?
e. Create or contribute runoff water, which would exceed
the capacity of existing or planned storm water
drainage systems or provide substantial additional
sources of polluted runoff?
f. Otherwise substantially degrade water quality?
g. 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?
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. Contribute to inundation by seiche, tsunami, or
mudflow?
The following discussion is based in part on a draft Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan being
prepared by Lee & Ro. (February 2014) and the Preliminary Geologic and Geotechnical Report and
the Geotechnical Design Report by TerraCosta, prepared in 2013 and 2009, respectively. Each of
these reports is on file and available for review at the District.
DISCUSSION
a. Less than Significant Impact.
The 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update Program EIR (City of Vista and Buena Sanitation District)
determined the proposed project may result in the transport of sediment and pollutants into local
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-38
drainage systems during construction; however, these impacts were associated with the original
alignment and would not necessarily occur with the current Buena Outfall alignment located
primarily within existing roadways.
Project components built during the rainy season could impact water quality as a result of runoff
and sediment transport during construction activities. Construction and operation of project
components may require trench dewatering. Dewatering may result in potential impacts to surface
water quality if not performed in accordance with applicable discharge permits. Standard design
features and construction measures incorporated in the project are listed below and are intended
to minimize water quality impacts. Project components would require adherence to different
standards conditional on the amount of land impacted during grading activities. Because the
proposed project would impact more than one acre of land (20,000 linear feet x 4 foot wide
trench) , the District would be required to comply with the Construction General Permit, which
requires the development and implementation of a SWPPP.
To address potential water quality impacts due to project construction, BMPs would be
implemented during construction. Selected BMPs from the City of Carlsbad Standard Urban
Stormwater Mitigation Plan (SUSMP) (updated January 14, 2011), would be applied to reduce
pollutants to maximum levels (see Table HWQ-1 for BMPs incorporated into the project’s design).
Minimizing the proposed project’s effects on water quality, as well as compliance with State and
local requirements can be most effectively achieved by using a combination of BMPs which
include Source Control, and for Priority projects shall include Treatment Control measures. These
design and control measures employ a multi-level strategy which consists of: 1) reducing or
eliminating post-project runoff; 2) controlling sources of pollutants; and 3) treating stormwater
runoff before discharging it to the storm drain system or to receiving waters
Short-term erosion impacts during the construction of the project would be prevented through
implementation of an erosion control plan. An erosion control plan is required and would include
construction BMPs such as:
Silt Fence, Fiber Rolls, or Gravel Bag
Street Sweeping and Vacuuming
Storm Drain Inlet Protection
Stabilized Construction Entrance/Exit
Vehicle and Equipment Maintenance, Cleaning, and Fueling
Material Delivery and Storage
Stockpile Management
Spill Prevention and Control
Solid Waste Management
Concrete Waste Management
Although the proposed project is a linear underground project (LUP) according to the State Water
Resources Control Board, the area of construction disturbance would be approximately 1.8 acres
(20,000 linear feet long and approximately 4 feet wide) which is over the 1.0 acre threshold.
Therefore, a Notice of Intent (NOI) will be filed with the California State Water Resources Control
Board to obtain an NPDES General Permit for stormwater discharges associated with land
disturbances of one acre or greater. Other local San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board
permits will be obtained as applicable and required.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-39
In accordance with the City of Carlsbad SUSMP, all development projects must be reviewed under
the City’s “Stormwater Standards Questionnaire” to determine if a project would be considered a
“priority” project. Priority projects are required to incorporate post-construction (or permanent)
Low Impact Development (LID) site design, source control, and treatment control BMPs into the
project’s design. The proposed project is classified as a priority project.
Implementation of the project specific NPDES Permit requirements (e.g., SWPPP and Erosion and
Sediment Control Plan with BMPs) are intended by design to prevent water quality degradation
and reduce potential impacts to water quality during construction and operational activities.
Therefore, potential impacts would not be significant.
b. Less than Significant Impact.
Although significant surface water and groundwater flows are not anticipated to be countered
along the majority of the alignment, it is possible that local perched groundwater conditions may
be encountered, depending on seasonal rainfall conditions and local irrigation practices.
Groundwater may also be encountered at the westerly end of the alignment (TerraCosta,
Geotechnical Design Report, 2009).
However, the construction and operation of the proposed project would not use groundwater and
would not directly affect groundwater levels. Dewatering may be required to prepare sites for
pipeline installation; yet, the potential impact to groundwater would be temporary and would not
substantially deplete groundwater supplies. In addition, the amount of groundwater that would be
directed to stormwater drainage systems would not exceed capacity for those systems. Therefore,
impacts to groundwater supplies would be less than significant (City of Vista, 2008 Sewer Master
Plan Update Program EIR, 2008).
c.-d. Less than Significant Impact.
The proposed project entails the construction of a new underground sewer pipeline within
Palomar Airport Road. All project components are located underground, with the exception of the
odor control facilities, and project construction would ultimately result in restoration of the project
site to its original condition. The proposed project would not alter the course of a stream or river.
Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
e. Less than Significant Impact.
The proposed project could temporarily contribute runoff to the existing stormwater system during
construction and maintenance activities. The amount of runoff generated during such activities
would be minimal and short-term. Furthermore, the proposed project would be required to adhere
to Section 402 of the NPDES, which requires implementation of a SWPPP and BMPs to address
water quality impacts (listed as a standard condition of approval below). The proposed project
would not exceed the capacity of the existing stormwater system, nor would the project provide
substantial sources of polluted runoff. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant (City of
Vista, 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update Program EIR, 2008).
f. Less than Significant Impact with Mitigation.
The Preliminary Geologic and Geotechnical Report and the Geotechnical Design Report
(TerraCosta, 2013 and 2009, respectively) concluded that regional groundwater is not anticipated
to be encountered. However, mitigation measure HWQ-1 has been included in the event that local
seepages and perched water and, depending upon the depth of excavation, local groundwater
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-40
zones are encountered, especially in the buried natural drainages that exist along the proposed
alignment.
The project alignment is located within the watershed that drains to the Pacific Ocean via Encinas
Creek. Both waterbodies are identified on the SWRCB’s Section 303(d) List of Impaired Water
Bodies. If not properly contained and treated, stormwater and non-stormwater runoff could
potentially transport pollutants from construction sites into stormwater drainage systems and
ultimately to jurisdictional waters and wetlands associated with Encinas Creek and the Pacific
Ocean, which would degrade the water quality of these downstream receiving waters. These
potential indirect impacts would be considered significant.
The proposed project would be required to comply with the NPDES Construction General Permit
and stormwater management and discharge control requirements. Compliance with existing
regulations would help prevent potential impacts associated with stormwater runoff from
construction work areas.
Implementation of mitigation measures HWQ-1 and BIO-2 and BIO-3 would reduce potentially
significant water quality impacts on potential jurisdictional waters and wetlands located off-site to
less than significant levels. Stormwater runoff during construction activities would be addressed
via adherence to the General Construction Permit which requires development of a SWPPP and
BMPs. Compliance with the mitigation measures, General Permit, and implementation of BMPs
would reduce potential impacts to water quality to below a level of significance (City of Vista, 2008
Sewer Master Plan Update Program EIR, 2008).
Types of Construction BMPs
Source control BMPs are intended to minimize, to the maximum extent practicable, the
introduction of pollutants and conditions of concern that may result in significant impacts
generated from site runoff to off-site drain systems. Treatment control BMPs are intended to treat
stormwater runoff before it discharges off-site. According to the Carlsbad SUSMP (2011), specific
localized treatment control BMPs are more effective at reducing or minimizing pollutants of
concern than other types of BMPs. Each type of BMP that would be implemented during the
construction phase of the proposed project is shown in Table HWQ-1, below. Post construction
Stormwater BMPs will be satisfied through the MS4 program (refer to the SWPPP.).
TABLE HWG-1
PROJECT RELATED BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
Construction Stormwater Management BMPs
Erosion and Sediment Control
Tracking Control
Wind Erosion Control
Stockpile Management
Non-storm Water Control
Waste Management and Materials Pollution Control
The implementation of construction BMPs would reduce, to the maximum extent feasible, all
anticipated pollutants of concern. Therefore, development of the proposed project would have a
less than significant impact on water quality standards or waste discharge requirements.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-41
Groundwater Impacts
Groundwater was not encountered during subsurface investigations undertaken as part of the
Geotechnical Report (Terra Costa, 2013). However, mitigation measure HWQ-1 and mitigation
measures BIO-2 and BIO-3 have been included in the event that local seepages and perched
water are encountered along the proposed alignment. Consequently, no significant impacts to
groundwater resources are anticipated with development of the project.
Hydrology/Drainage Impacts
The proposed project is a linear, underground pipeline project that would be constructed primarily
within the existing roadway of Palomar Airport Road. Therefore, the existing site runoff locations
will be maintained in the post developed site condition and drainage patterns will not be
significantly altered as a result of the proposed development. As a result, development of the
proposed project would not result in substantial erosion, siltation, or flooding on- or off-site, or
exceed the capacity of existing or planned downstream stormwater drainage systems.
In addition, the development of the project would incorporate construction and permanent BMPs
that would reduce, to the maximum extent feasible, all potential construction-related project
pollutants; therefore, the proposed project would not otherwise substantially degrade water
quality and development of the project would result in less than significant impacts.
g. No Impact.
The proposed project does not involve construction of housing; therefore, flood risk to housing
would not be an issue for this project. The majority of all project components would be placed
underground with the exception of up to five odor control units. The odor control units will be
unmanned and above ground and located adjacent to the existing roadways along the project
alignment, which are located outside the floodplain. Thus, there would be no impacts associated
with exposure of 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 with project
implementation.
h. No Impact.
No portion of the project alignment is located within a 100-year floodplain or floodway. No portion
of the project would impede or redirect flow because all project components are underground with
the exception of the odor control facilities, which would be located outside of the roadway and
adjacent to the roadway right of way. All areas of where active construction would occur would be
returned to pre-construction contours. Flood capacity would not be altered as a result of project
components and no impacts to flooding would occur with project implementation.
i. Less than Significant Impact.
The proposed project is not located within a dam inundation zone (SanGIS 2013), and all project
components would be placed underground except for the odor control facilities. Thus, impacts
associated with exposure of 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, would be less
than significant.
j. Less than Significant Impact.
The project site is predominantly flat with little topographic relief. Elevations range from
approximately 296 feet amsl in the eastern portion of the site to approximately 283 feet amsl in
the western portion. Therefore, the potential for mudflow is low. The project is located east of
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-42
Interstate 5 and approximately 1 mile east of the Pacific Ocean at an elevation that is almost 300
feet above sea level. The majority of the project would be installed underground. Therefore, given
the location and nature of the project, exposure of structures to inundation by seiche, tsunami, or
mudflow is unlikely; therefore, less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Hydrology and Water Quality Mitigation Measures
HWQ-1: Mitigation measures listed below shall be implemented in order to reduce impacts
to jurisdictional waters.
Prior to construction, the District shall obtain all necessary permits to comply
with the federal Clean Water Act, state discharge permitting requirements, and
local grading ordinances. Copies of each permit shall be maintained at the
project site for the duration of construction.
Biological Resources mitigation measures BIO-2 and BIO-3 provide mitigation for
projects affecting downstream waters and potential wetlands.
Level of Significance after Mitigation
With implementation of the mitigation measures listed above, residual impacts to hydrology and
water quality would be less than significant.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-43
X. Land Use and Planning
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a. Disrupt or divide the physical arrangement of 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
Comprehensive Plan, specific plan, local coastal
program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the
purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental
effect?
c. Be incompatible with existing land use in the vicinity?
DISCUSSION
a.-c. No Impact.
The proposed project is an identified City of Vista/District Capital Improvement Project [CIP
#8131]. The project consists of the rerouting of the Buena Outfall Force Main and gravity sewer
bypassing the existing outfall alignment which runs through an industrial park and riparian
corridor south of Palomar Airport Road. The existing outfall will remain in place to serve existing
City of Carlsbad sewer connections and previously approved development. The proposed project
alignment is located wholly within existing roadways and would not disrupt or divide the physical
arrangement of the community, or conflict with any applicable land use policy, or be incompatible
with the existing land uses in the project vicinity.
The project alignment would be located within the existing roadway or right-of-way (ROW) of
Palomar Airport Road. A short segment of the project alignment would be located within
developed land associated with the Paseo Del Norte ROW and a commercial property (Motel 6) in
the western portion of the study area. In addition, a short segment occurs within developed and
undeveloped land associated with the El Camino Real ROW, Palomar Airport Road ROW, and
County of San Diego-owned Palomar Airport parcels (Assessor’s Parcel Numbers 213-020-18 and
209-050-25) in the eastern portion of the study area.
The project requires a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) from the City of Carlsbad for
construction of the proposed project. The proposed project’s consistency with the City’s General
Plan, Municipal Code, and other land use plans and policies is discussed below.
General Plan
The City of Carlsbad is in the process of updating its General Plan. The Carlsbad City Council
expressed their preference for the General Plan Update (Envision Carlsbad) Land Use Map on
September 11, 2012.
The majority of the project site has a planned land use designation of Prime Arterial. The project
site is partially located within the Coastal Zone. The City's coastal zone has been divided into six
segments and separate Local Coastal Programs (LCPs) regulate each segment. The boundaries of
the City's Coastal Zone were established by the State. The City has a certified Local Coastal
Program for the portion of the City in which the project site is located (Mello 2 Segment) and
therefore has jurisdiction to issue a CDP under the Coastal Act.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-44
The project site is also located within the McClellan-Palomar Airport Land Use Compatibility
Planning area. California law requires preparation of airport land use compatibility plans for each
public-use and military airport in the state. The basic function of such plans is to promote
compatibility between airports and the land uses that surround them. For McClellan-Palomar
Airport, the San Diego County Airport Land Use Commission has prepared and adopted the
McClellan-Palomar Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP). As required by State law,
Carlsbad's General Plan must be consistent with the adopted ALUCP.
As described above, the proposed project would be consistent with key applicable goals and
policies in the Land Use Element of the Carlsbad General Plan (City of Carlsbad, 2010). Therefore,
no significant land use impacts would occur with project implementation.
Circulation Element
The project alignment is located within several existing roadways including El Camino Real,
Palomar Airport Road, and Paseo Del Norte. As discussed in the Transportation/Traffic section of
this document, implementation of the proposed project would not have an adverse effect on
traffic, circulation, bus routes/transit, pedestrians or cyclists because the majority of the project
alignment would be constructed at night, thereby avoiding morning and evening peak hour traffic.
A traffic control plan has been prepared to ensure the potential impacts to traffic, including short-
term detours, are minimized to the maximum extent feasible. All affected roadways will be
restored to their pre-project conditions by the District following the conclusion of all construction
activities.
Other General Plan Elements
The proposed project would be conditioned to comply with all applicable noise, safety, and open
space City standards regarding land use. Consequently, no inconsistencies with the City’s Noise
Element and Public Safety Element, and Conservation Element are anticipated as a result of
project development; therefore, no impact to the City’s General Plan would be expected to occur.
Zoning Code
As noted above, the majority of the project site, because it is a roadway, has a zoning designation
of Arterial Roadway. The site is occupied by Palomar Airport Road and the proposed project use of
the site for development of a linear, underground public infrastructure project would be consistent
with this existing use.
A Coastal Development Permit is required to be obtained from the City of Carlsbad to develop the
project and to ensure that it is consistent with the underlying zoning designation and would
comply with all applicable City policies and standards. Compliance with the terms and provisions
of the CDP would ensure that no significant land use compatibility impacts would occur.
Habitat Management Plan
As discussed in the Biological Resources section of this document, there is 0.4 acre of land
located at the intersection of Palomar Airport Road and El Camino Real that is identified as
“Urban/Developed” land that would be disturbed by the project. The remainder of the site is
located within the existing roadway or is otherwise already developed with buildings and
contained to habitat value. Therefore, there is no existing habitat or natural communities on-site
that would be affected or removed by project implementation; therefore, no significant impacts to
a habitat plan would occur.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-45
Compliance with Development Standards
With review approval of the Carlsbad CDP, the project’s proposed development would be
consistent with all of the applicable development standards of the Carlsbad Development Code.
Land uses surrounding the project alignment, including their respective land use and zoning
designations, are included below in Table LU-2. As indicated in Table LU-2, due to the nature and
location of the proposed project, the project would be compatible with all of the surrounding land
uses. Therefore, no significant impacts would occur.
TABLE LU-2
SURROUNDING LAND USES
Direction Land Use Zoning Designation General Plan Designation
North
Airport,
transportation,
commercial,
industrial, open
space,
residential
Arterial roadway, open space,
manufacturing, planned
industrial, commercial–visitor
serving overlay, commercial-
tourist, planned community
overlay
Prime arterial, major arterial, planned
industrial, governmental facilities, open
space, travel/recreation commercial,
regional commercial, airport influence
area
South
Transportation,
commercial,
industrial, open
space,
residential
Arterial roadway, commercial
tourist, planned industrial,
commercial–visitor serving
overlay, open space, residential
professional, residential
density-multiple
Prime arterial, major arterial, general
commercial, planned industrial,
unplanned areas/combination district,
residential medium, open space,
governmental facilities, travel/recreation
commercial, airport influence area
East
Transportation,
commercial,
industrial, open
space,
residential
Arterial roadway, scenic
preservation overlay, planned
commercial, open space
Prime arterial, major arterial, general
commercial, planned industrial, open
space, airport influence area
West
Transportation,
commercial,
industrial, open
space,
residential
Arterial roadway, transportation
corridor, planned community,
residential professional,
commercial–visitor serving
overlay
Prime arterial, major arterial, general
commercial, planned industrial,
unplanned areas/combination district,
residential medium, open space,
governmental facilities, travel/recreation
commercial
Source: City of Carlsbad GIS Zoning Map, May 2013
Land Use and Planning Mitigation Measures
None required.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-46
XI. Mineral Resources
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
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
Comprehensive Plan, specific plan or other land use
plan?
DISCUSSION
a.-b. No Impact.
The California Department of Conservation’s Division of Mines and Geology (DMG) does not
identify the project site as an area with high potential for aggregate or mineral resources (DMG
1993). The City’s General Plan does not identify the project site as a locally important mineral
resource recovery site. Therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not result in the
loss of availability of a known mineral resource, and no impacts would occur.
Mineral Resources Mitigation Measures
None required.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-47
XII. Noise
Would the project result in:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
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 groundborne 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 airport or public use airport,
would the project expose people residing or working in
the project area to excessive noise levels?
f. For a project in the vicinity of a private airstrip, would
the project expose people residing or working in the
project area to excessive noise levels?
The discussion below is summarized and based on the findings contained within the Noise Impact
Report (RCH Group, 2014) prepared for the proposed project. The report is on file and available
for review at the District.
DISCUSSION
This analysis focuses on potential construction-related and operational noise impacts that would
result from the Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III project. The proposed project would reroute the
Buena Outfall Force Main and gravity sewer. The proposed project would be implemented as part
of the City of Vista and Buena Sanitation District’s 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update, which
provides a set of recommended projects for inclusion in the District’s overall CIP. This analysis
tiers, where appropriate, from the Program EIR that was prepared to addresses the potential
environmental consequences of the proposed rehabilitation, replacement, and relocation sewer
pipeline projects that constitute the recommended CIP identified in the 2008 Sewer Master Plan
Update (City of Vista, 2008). It should be noted that the Program EIR found all noise related
impacts that would occur under the updated plan, including those associated with the Buena
Outfall Force Main Phase III project, to be less than significant (City of Vista, 2008). However,
unlike the projects presented in the Master Plan Update, construction of the proposed project
would occur primarily at night (between the hours of 9 p.m. and 6 a.m.) to avoid potential traffic
impacts.
Noise limits established in the City of Carlsbad Municipal Code and estimated short-term,
temporary construction noise levels were used to analyze the potential for construction-related
noise impacts from the proposed project. Construction-related noise sources would include
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-48
construction equipment, construction activities (e.g., trenching, pipe installation, paving, etc.), and
construction-related haul trips.
With the implementation of the proposed project design features and additional mitigation
identified in this report, potential noise and vibration impacts associated with the proposed
construction activities would be reduced to levels that are less than significant. No mitigation
measures are required for operation-related noise and vibration impacts, because the proposed
project would not result in long-term changes to the ambient noise or vibration environment.
a. Less Than Significant Impact.
Most of the potential noise impacts associated with the proposed project would be related to
pipeline construction activities. Construction would move along the pipeline alignment and the
total project construction, including material acquisition, construction, testing, and acceptance, is
expected to last approximately one year. Operational noise that could be generated by the project
are limited to the active odor control facilities proposed along the alignment. Active odor control
units will be installed with noise reduction features that limit the generated noise level from the
fan to approximately 60 decibels (dB) at 10 feet away and 46 dB at 50 feet away which is below
City of Carlsbad noise guidance for motel, hotels, and commercial areas. The active unit(s) along
Palomar Airport Road will be located in areas with existing noise levels generated by road traffic
that will mask the noise. The active unit near Motel 6 will be located 50-feet from any motel
rooms. Passive odor control units will not produce any noise.
A discussion of the applicable noise standards as they would pertain to the proposed project is
presented below.
Noise Standards
City of Carlsbad Municipal Code Chapter 8.48 (Noise), limits nighttime construction noise. The
code sections on construction hour limitations and exceptions were revised in May of 2013 as
described in the remainder of this discussion. Pursuant to Section 8.48.010 (Construction hours
limitation), construction activities are prohibited after six p.m. on any day, and before seven a.m.
Monday through Friday, and before eight a.m. on Saturday. According to the Carlsbad noise
ordinance, construction activities are also prohibited all day on Sunday, and on any federal
holiday.
Pursuant to Section 8.48.020 (Exceptions), the building official, city engineer, or other official
designated by the City Manager may modify the hours of construction specified in Section
8.48.10. In making a determination to lengthen or shorten the hours of construction, the city
official shall consider the following:
a. Whether the project is an emergency repair required to protect the health and safety of any
member of the community;
b. Whether the construction would be less objectionable at night than during the daylight
hours;
c. The character and nature of the neighborhood in the vicinity of the work site;
d. The potential for great economic hardship;
e. If the work is in the interest of the general public;
f. Whether there is a previously unforeseen effect on the health, safety or welfare of the
public; and
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-49
g. Any history of complaints regarding compliance with the limitation on hours of
construction.
The majority of construction activities are proposed to occur during 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. to avoid traffic
congestion issues. The weekly construction schedule would begin Sunday at 9 p.m. and would
end Thursday at 6 a.m., with no construction on Friday or Saturday. Nighttime construction would
minimize any disruption to typical daytime traffic on the construction roadway, primarily on
Palomar Airport Road. This schedule would be less objectionable than disrupting daytime traffic
on Palomar Airport Road for the construction period of approximately one year, and therefore
would be in the interests of the general public.
Therefore, the building official, city engineer, or other official designated by the City Manager may
grant an exemption to Section 8.48.010 for the proposed project because the project satisfies
conditions (b) and (e) above. With the exemption, nighttime construction and Sunday construction
would be permitted and there would not be a conflict with the local municipal code and therefore
this potential impact would be less than significant.
b. Less than Significant Impact.
Groundborne vibrations consist of rapidly fluctuating motions within the ground that have an
average motion of zero. The effects of groundborne vibrations typically cause a nuisance only to
people, but at extreme vibration levels, damage to buildings may occur. Although groundborne
vibration can be felt outdoors, it is typically an annoyance only indoors, where the associated
effects of the shaking of a building can be notable. Groundborne noise is an effect of groundborne
vibration and only exists indoors, since it is produced from noise radiated from the motion of the
walls and floors of a room and may consist of the rattling of windows or dishes on shelves.
Peak particle velocity (PPV) relates to the maximum instantaneous peak of the vibration signal
and is often used in measuring the magnitude of vibration. Construction vibration is analyzed in
accordance with standards established by the Transportation and Construction-Induced Vibration
Guidance Manual issued by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). Table N-1
presents these standards. Continuous sources include the use of vibratory compaction equipment
and other construction equipment that creates vibration other than in single events. Transient
sources create a single isolated vibration event, such as tractor-trailer movements. Thresholds are
provided for both structural damage and annoyance. Structural damage thresholds are
considered the CEQA significance thresholds; however, annoyance thresholds are also provided
for context.
TABLE N-1
VIBRATION EXPOSURE THRESHOLDS
Type of Structure Threshold
Maximum Peak Particle Velocity
(inches/second)
Continuous Sources Transient Sources
Newer residential structures
Structural damage 0.5 1.0
Annoyance 0.1 0.9
Modern Industrial/Commercial
Buildings
Structural damage 0.5 2.0
Annoyance NA NA
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-50
Source: California Department of Transportation, 2004 Annoyance thresholds are not applicable to industrial/commercial buildings due to the lack of sensitive receptors.
The primary sources of vibration during construction would be from front-end loaders, backhoes,
and excavators, etc. If required for project construction, a vibratory roller would produce the
greatest amount of vibration along the pipeline route, with a 0.210 PPV at 25 feet (Caltrans,
2004). The nearest sensitive receptor is a Motel 6 on the west side of Paseo Del Norte that is
approximately 50 to 100 feet from the proposed pipeline route. This hotel is classified as a
“newer” structure and, therefore, has a continuous vibration exposure structural damage
threshold of 0.5 PPV and an annoyance threshold of 0.1 PPV.
Vibration levels (PPV) from front-end loaders, backhoes, excavators, and vibratory rollers at 50
feet would be less than 0.1 PPV, which is well below the significance threshold (0.5 PPV)
(Caltrans, 2004). Therefore, vibration related impacts would be less than significant.
c. No Impact.
The proposed project would not result in a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels
in the proposed project vicinity because the project consists of installing pipeline and construction
would be temporary. In addition, the active odor control units proposed along the alignment will be
installed with noise reduction features that limit the generated noise level from the fan to
approximately 60 decibels (dB) at 10 feet away and 46 dB at 50 feet away which is below City of
Carlsbad noise guidance for motel, hotels, and commercial areas. The active unit(s) along
Palomar Airport Road will be located in areas with existing noise levels generated by road traffic
that will mask the noise. The active unit near Motel 6 will be located 50-feet from any motel
rooms. The passive odor control units will not produce any operational noise. Therefore, there
would be no substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above
the existing levels. .
d. Less than Significant Impact with Mitigation.
Potential noise impacts associated with the proposed project would be related to short-term
pipeline construction activities and operation of the active odor control units. Discussions of the
existing noise conditions, sensitive receptors, and the associated construction noise impacts, as
they would pertain to the proposed project, are presented below.
Existing Noise Conditions
Noise is generally defined as unwanted sound. Sound is measured in decibels (dB). Normal
speech has a sound level of approximately 60 dB. The dB levels measured to quantify
environmental sounds consist of determining all of the frequencies of a sound according to a
weight system that reflects non-linear response characteristics of the human ear. This is called
“A” weighting and the decibel level measured is called the A-weighted sound level or dBA.
Ambient noise levels near the proposed pipeline route are moderate to high. The most prominent
noise sources in the area of the proposed project are those associated with Palomar Airport and
roadway traffic along Palomar Airport Road, El Camino Real, Paseo Del Norte, and streets that
cross Palomar Airport Road between El Camino Real and Paseo Del Norte.
Sensitive Receptors
The City of Carlsbad defines noise sensitive receptors in its General Plan Noise Element as those
land uses that are particularly affected by excessive noise, including residences, motels, hotels,
public meeting rooms, schools, churches, libraries, hospital, parks, recreation areas, etc. (City of
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-51
Carlsbad, 1994). The nearest sensitive receptors to the proposed pipeline route include the
following:
The southwest end of the pipeline would be within approximately 50-100 feet of the Motel
6 on the western side of Paseo Del Norte and the Discovery Isle center on the east side of
Paseo Del Norte. Most of the motel rooms and classrooms are 100 feet or further away
from the project site. However, some of the motel rooms and motel office are as close as
approximately 50 feet to the project site.
The west end of the pipeline would be within approximately 850 feet of residences on
Sapphire Drive. The homes are on the top of a hillside ridge; the line of sight between many
of the homes and the pipeline route is blocked by four large buildings.
The Courtyard hotel is approximately 350 feet northwest of the project site, off Owens
Avenue.
The Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites hotel is along the south side of Palomar Airport
Road (approximately 200 feet south of the pipeline route), northeast of Yarrow Road.
There is a large residential subdivision (Bressi Ranch) approximately 2,000 feet to the
southeast of the nearest portion of the pipeline route near the Palomar Airport Road and El
Camino Real intersection.
Construction Noise Impacts
Construction activities would move along the pipeline alignment and all construction activities are
expected to last approximately one year. Construction activities would require the use of
numerous pieces of noise-generating equipment, such as jackhammers, front-end loaders,
backhoes, excavators, cranes, etc. Construction-related material haul trips would raise ambient
noise levels along haul routes, depending on the number of haul trips made and types of vehicles
used. Construction activities would occur primarily at nighttime, increasing the ambient noise
levels above existing conditions, which could be perceived as annoying to people at sensitive
receptor locations in the area.
The noise levels generated by construction equipment would vary greatly depending upon factors
such as the type and specific model of the equipment, the operation being performed, the
condition of the equipment and the prevailing wind direction. The highest noise levels associated
with construction typically occur with earth moving equipment, which includes excavating
machinery (e.g., backhoes, excavators, front-end loaders, etc.) and road building equipment (e.g.,
compactors, scrapers, graders, etc.). Construction traffic associated with the proposed project
would generally involve the export of dirt and asphalt debris and the import of pipeline, concrete,
and other materials.
The maximum noise levels for various types of construction equipment that would be required to
build the proposed pipeline are provided in Table N-2, Typical Noise Levels from Construction
Equipment. Based on Table N-2, the maximum noise levels from most of the project construction
equipment at 50 feet would be in the mid to high 80 dBA range. However, the average sound level
of the construction activity would depend upon the amount of time that the equipment would
operate and the intensity of the construction activity. Therefore, it is estimated that the average
noise level that would occur during proposed pipeline construction activities would be
approximately 85 dBA at 50 feet.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-52
Construction activities associated with the proposed project would result in noise impacts to
various types of sensitive receptors, including residences and hotels. Noise from construction
activities generally attenuate at a rate of 6.0 to 7.5 dBA per doubling (Caltrans, 1998) of distance
from the source, depending on the topography of the area and environmental conditions (i.e.,
atmospheric conditions and noise barriers, either vegetative or manufactured, etc.). Where
topography or physical structures obstruct the line of sight from the noise-producing equipment to
the receptor location, noise levels would be further reduced (generally by at least 5 dBA) (Caltrans,
1998).
TABLE N-2
TYPICAL NOISE LEVELS FROM CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT (LMAX)
Construction Equipment Noise Level (dBA at 50 feet)
Dump Truck 88
Portable Air Compressor 81
Concrete Mixer (Truck) 85
Paver 89
Loader 85
Generator 76
Backhoe 85
Source: Federal Transit Administration, 2006
Notes: dBA = A-weighted decibel; Lmax = maximum sound level
The pipeline route is generally in a non-residential area. Most of the single family residences that
could be disturbed by nighttime noise are located more than 700 feet from the construction
areas. One multi-family residence is within 800 feet of the area of construction noise.
Table N-3 provides the estimated outdoors and indoors noise levels at the sensitive receptor
locations in the project vicinity given the noise attenuation rate of 6.0 to 7.5 dBA, the estimated
average construction noise level of 85 dBA at 50 feet, and the ability for residential and hotel
structures with closed windows to attenuate indoor noise levels by at least an additional 25 dBA.
As indicated in Table N-3, outdoor construction nighttime noise levels would be as high as 61 dBA
at the nearest residences and as high as 85 dBA at the nearest hotel. These noise level estimates
are conservative because they do not account for any additional noise attenuation that would
occur due to rough surfaces, intervening structures and vegetation, atmospheric conditions, etc.
Because normal residential and hotel structures with closed windows would attenuate noise
levels by at least 25 dBA, proposed pipeline construction activity noise levels within the nearest
residences and hotel would be as high as 36 dBA and 60 dBA, respectively. It should be noted
that these maximum average noise levels would occur for one or two nights at each location, while
the pipeline construction activities would be at the closest distance to the receptors. As the linear
pipeline construction would proceed along the route and away from sensitive receptors, noise
levels would decrease. For the purposes of this noise analysis, nighttime indoor average noise
levels of 40 dBA or higher would constitute a significant short-term nuisance to sensitive
receptors. Therefore, potentially significant short-term nighttime noise impacts would occur at the
three hotels identified below which include the Marriott Courtyard, Hampton Inn, Homewood
Suites. Construction in front of the Motel 6, located on Paseo Del Norte, would occur during the
daytime thereby avoiding the potential for nighttime noise effects.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-53
TABLE N-3
ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION NOISE LEVELS AT SENSITIVE RECEPTOR LOCATIONS
Sensitive Receptor Distance Noise Level (dBA)
(outdoors)
Noise Level (dBA)
(indoors)
Residences on Sapphire Drive 850 54 – 61 29 – 36
Courtyard Hotel 350 64 – 68 39 – 43
Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites Hotel 200 70 – 73 45 – 48
Bressi Ranch community 2,000 45 – 53 20 – 28
Motel 6/Discovery Isle 50-100 77.5-85 52.5-60
The District has committed to incorporating project design features into the proposed project,
which are shown in Appendix A of this MND/IS. Implementation of these measures would reduce
the potential for environmental effects (City of Vista, 2008). Although the PDF’s and construction
measures already incorporated into the project would reduce the effects of the proposed project
construction activities, short-term noise impacts would remain potentially significant. Therefore,
implementation of Mitigation Measure MM N-1 would be required to reduce the potentially
significant short-term noise impacts to less-than-significant levels.
e. No Impact.
The project alignment is located directly south of McClellan-Palomar Airport and within the Airport
Influence Area (AIA) (Carlsbad General Plan and McClellan-Palomar Airport Land Use Compatibility
Plan). Portions of the route are located as close as 600 feet from the east end of the airport
runway and are within the 70 dBA Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) contour estimated
for the airport (City of Carlsbad, 1994). The CNEL is a 24-hour sound level average with a 10 dB
penalty for the nighttime hours of 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. and a five dB penalty added between 7 pm.
and 10 p.m. Other portions of the construction route are within the 65 dBA contour, within the 60
dBA contour and outside the 60 dBA contour. Although the proposed project would be located
within two miles and within the airport impact area of the McClellan-Palomar Airport, the proposed
project would not expose people residing on or working in the area to excessive noise levels. The
construction of the facilities in the airport vicinity would be short-term and would not contribute to
a long-term noise effect. There would be no impact.
f. No Impact.
There are no private airstrips located near the proposed project site. Thus, no impact would occur
with project implementation.
Noise Mitigation Measures
N-1 The District or its construction contractors shall develop a Nighttime Noise Mitigation Plan
to be implemented within 300 feet of the hotels along the proposed pipeline route. The
plan shall be developed in coordination with the hotel management staff. The plan shall
include, but not be limited to:
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-54
The contractor shall appoint a construction liaison that shall be responsible for
coordinating any/all complaints about construction with District staff and the City of
Carlsbad, responding to any local complaints about construction noise, and notifying
the hotels regarding dates and the anticipated length of construction.
Installation of temporary noise barriers, when necessary and where feasible, to block
the line of sight between major construction noise generating activities and nearby
hotel rooms.
Require construction during daytime hours for the Motel 6 on the western end of the
construction route, and any other receptors identified that have high sensitivity to
nighttime noise.1
Require contractors to modify nighttime construction activities, as feasible, when they
receive complaints from the nearest adjacent receptors. This could include developing
schedules so that the loudest activities would occur in the first couple of hours of
construction each shift if nighttime construction is utilized.
Level of Significance after Mitigation
With the implementation of the mitigation measure, potential noise impacts associated with the
proposed construction activities would be reduced to levels that are less than significant. No
mitigation measures are required for operation-related noise and vibration impacts, because the
proposed project would result in no long-term changes to the ambient noise or vibration
environment due to the nature of the project.
1 LOS Engineering Inc. performed a traffic analysis documenting roadway Level of Service (LOS) along Paseo Del Norte with
temporary lane restrictions associated with the project. The traffic analysis found that one northbound lane restriction and one
southbound lane restriction along Paseo Del Norte south of Palomar Airport Road would allow both northbound and southbound
operations to remain at acceptable operations (LOS A) throughout the day or night.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-55
XIII. Population and Housing
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a. Induce substantial population growth in an area,
either directly (for example, by proposing new homes
and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through an
extension of roads or other infrastructure)?
b. Displace substantial numbers of existing housing,
necessitating the construction of replacement housing
elsewhere?
c. Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating
the construction of replacement housing elsewhere?
DISCUSSION
a.-c. No Impact.
The proposed project involves the construction of a new sewer line that would be located primarily
within existing roadways (Palomar Airport Road and Paseo Del Norte). Development of this project
is not expected to affect population growth in the area because the project is required under the
2008 Sewer Master Plan to meet existing and projected future sewer demands based on
forecasted population growth and development projections provided by the City of Vista and
SANDAG. Furthermore, the project would be constructed within an area of the city that has
existing infrastructure and public services. As a result, development of the project would not result
in potentially growth-inducing effects by extending utilities into an undeveloped area.
The proposed project alignment is linear, underground and is located within existing roadways and
does not include or affect any residential land uses. Therefore, development of the project would
not displace substantial numbers of people or necessitate the construction of replacement
housing. Consequently, substantial direct or indirect population growth, or the displacement of
people or housing would not occur with project development; as a result, no impacts to population
or housing would occur with project implementation.
Population and Housing Mitigation Measures
None required.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-56
XIV. Public Services
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a. result in substantial adverse physical impacts
associated with the provision of new or physically
altered governmental facilities, or 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 following public
services:
1. Fire protection?
2. Police protection?
3. Schools?
4. Maintenance of public facilities including roads?
5. Other public facilities?
DISCUSSION
a.1–a.2 Less than Significant Impact.
The proposed project would result in less than significant impacts to fire protective services,
police services, roads, and other public facilities, and no impacts to schools. Potential impacts on
each public service are discussed below.
Fire Protection Services
The proposed project would be constructed in accordance with all applicable fire codes set forth
by the state Fire Marshal and the Carlsbad building code. Development of the proposed project is
not expected to result in an incremental increase in the demand for emergency services, due to
the nature of the project. The closest fire station is located at 2560 Orion Way, which is less than
one mile from the project site. In addition, Carlsbad Fire Department staff has reviewed the
preliminary site plans, and identified recommendations to reduce potential impacts to fire
protective services. The project site is not located within an area designated as a “Fire Hazard
Severity Area.” In addition, prior to final project approval, the Carlsbad Fire Marshal would verify
that the project has been designed to conform to code. Therefore, development of the proposed
facility would not exceed the capacity of the CFD to serve the site or other areas with existing fire
protection services and resources, and would result in less than significant impacts.
Police Protective Services
Short-term project construction would involve lane closures which would occur primarily at night. A
traffic control plan has been prepared for the project to ensure that potential effects on traffic are
minimized to the maximum extent feasible. In addition, nighttime construction is proposed along
portions of the project alignment to avoid disruptions to peak hour traffic volumes along
potentially affected roadways including Palomar Airport Road and El Camino Real. These project
design features are intended to minimize the potential for effects on existing traffic including
police vehicles (emergency vehicles as well as regular patrol cars) traveling on roadways within
the project area.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-57
Due to the nature of the proposed project, no new demands for police services or facilities is
anticipated. The nearest police services would be provided by the City of Carlsbad Police
Department (CPD) located approximately one mile to the east of the project alignment at 2560
Orion Way. The project would be located within an area of existing commercial, institutional,
commercial, and residential uses, which is served by the CPD. Therefore, the project would not
exceed the capacity of the CPD to provide police protective services within the project site, and
impacts would be less than significant.
a.3 No Impact
Schools
The proposed project would consist of the construction of a new sewer pipeline within existing
roadways. Due to the nature and location of the project, no impacts to existing schools would
occur with project implementation.
a.4–a.5 Less than Significant Impact.
Maintenance of Public Facilities
Due to the nature of the project, the project is not anticipated to result in an incremental increase
in the use of libraries, senior centers, and other public facilities. Project development is not
expected to affect the demand of these services such that construction of new or expanded
facilities is required.
Maintenance of public roads in the vicinity of the project alignment is provided by the City of
Carlsbad. Due to the size and scope of the proposed project and associated vehicular and
required street and circulation improvements (as outlined in the Traffic and Transportation),
project development is not anticipated to increase roadway maintenance on local roads above
normal levels. Following the completion of project construction, the affected roadways would be
restored to their previous conditions as part of the proposed project. As a result, less than
significant impacts on maintenance of public facilities would occur with project implementation.
Public Services and Utilities Mitigation Measures
None required.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-58
XV. Recreation
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
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?
b. Does the project include recreational facilities or
require the construction or expansion of recreational
facilities, which might have an adverse physical effect
on the environment?
DISCUSSION
a.-b. No Impact.
The proposed project involves the construction of a new linear underground sewer line that would
be located primarily within existing roadways (Palomar Airport Road and Paseo Del Norte). The
project does not include the construction of any recreational facilities.
Nearby recreational amenities and facilities located near the project alignment include the Flower
Fields, Legoland, and the Carlsbad Crossings municipal golf course. However, due to the nature of
the project and because the project would be constructed within the existing roadways, no
impacts to recreational resources would be anticipated with project implementation.
Recreation Mitigation Measures
None required.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-59
XVI. Transportation/Traffic
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a. Conflict with an applicable plan, ordinance or policy
establishing measures of effectiveness for the
performance of the circulation system, taking into
account all modes of transportation including mass
transit and non-motorized travel and relevant
components of the circulation system, including but
not limited to intersections, streets, highways and
freeways, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and mass
transit?
b. Conflict with an applicable congestion management
program, including, but not limited to level of service
standards and travel demand measures, or other
standards established 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 levels or a change in
location that results in substantial safety risks?
d. Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature
(e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or
incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)?
e. Result in inadequate emergency access?
f. Conflict with adopted policies plans, or programs
supporting alternative transportation (e.g., bus
turnouts, bicycle racks)?
The discussion below is summarized from, and based on, the findings contained within the Buena
Outfall Force Main Phase III Traffic Letter Report (LOS Engineering, Inc. 2014) and a conceptual
traffic control plan prepared for the proposed project. The traffic report is on file and available for
review with the District.
DISCUSSION
a.-b. Less than Significant Impact
The following analysis evaluates and describes the potential short-term construction related
impacts to roadway segment and intersection Level of Service (LOS) along Palomar Airport Road
and Paseo Del Norte with the temporary lane restrictions, intersections closures, and traffic
detours associated with the proposed project proposed by the District. The project limits are
generally along Palomar Airport Road from Paseo Del Norte to El Camino Real and along Paseo
Del Norte just south of Palomar Airport Road within the City of Carlsbad. According to the City of
Carlsbad Growth Management Plan, no road segment or intersection shall be projected to exceed
a service level C during neither off-peak hours, nor service level D during peak hours. If the project
traffic causes the intersection or street segment to decrease to worse than LOS D during the peak
hour and LOS C for off-peak hours, then the project is considered to have a significant impact by
the city of Carlsbad and mitigation is required.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-60
The traffic analyses prepared for this study were based on the Intersection Capacity Utilization
(ICU) ratio analysis and Volume to Capacity (V/C) ratios using Level of Service (LOS) evaluation
criteria and the City of Carlsbad significance criteria requirements. The LOS designations range
from A through F with LOS A representing the best operating condition and LOS F representing the
worst operating condition.
The study intersections were analyzed based on the ICU ratio. This process defines LOS in terms
of the ratio of available intersection capacity. Intersection LOS were calculated using ICU
spreadsheets from the Growth Management Plan Traffic Monitoring Program. The ICU LOS is
described in Table TR-1.
TABLE TR-1
INTERSECTION LEVEL OF SERVICE (ICU)
Level of Service Intersection Capacity Utilization Ratio
A 0.00 – 0.60
B 0.61 – 0.70
C 0.71 – 0.80
D 0.81 – 0.90
E 0.91 – 1.00
F Greater than 1.00
Source: City of Carlsbad Growth Management 2013 Plan Traffic Monitoring Program
The street segments were analyzed on a peak hour basis using a Volume to Capacity ratio (V/C) to
determine the LOS. The City of Carlsbad uses a one-direction capacity of 1,800 vehicles per lane
per hour for LOS capacity calculations.
The following analysis was prepared using the following documents and assumptions:
City of Carlsbad 2013 Traffic Management Plan.
Buena Sanitation District Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III (CIP 8131) Preliminary Design
Report and preliminary traffic control concept plan.
Construction is anticipated to be initiated in late 2014 and will require approximately one
year for completion.
Short-term construction related vehicle trips would total approximately 30 trips per day
Lane restrictions associated with construction will occur from 9 PM until 6 AM.
The project will complete work by 5 AM at the intersection of Palomar Airport Road at
McClellan/Yarrow Drive to avoid impacting the operations of bus Route 309.
El Camino Real will have trenchless construction, thereby reducing the number of lane
closures at the intersection of Palomar Airport Road/El Camino Real.
Traffic restrictions were analyzed with two westbound lanes closed along Palomar Airport
Road.
Traffic restrictions were analyzed with one northbound lane and one southbound lane
closed along Paseo Del Norte.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-61
Description of Phased Construction Lane Closures
Project construction will temporarily close two westbound lanes (one lane to remain open) along
Palomar Airport Road) generally between El Camino Real on the east and Paseo Del Norte on the
west. Additionally, a segment of Paseo Del Norte will have temporary closure of one northbound
and one southbound lane immediately south of Palomar Airport Road. There are several planned
construction phases (with some overlap) which are summarized below.
Palomar Airport Road Phase 1
Lane restrictions generally affect Palomar Airport Road from the east side of El Camino Real to the
west side of El Camino Real. Palomar Airport Road will have two westbound lanes closed and the
intersection of Palomar Airport Road at El Camino Real will be restricted to one westbound lane.
Due to the proposed trenchless construction beneath El Camino Real north of Palomar Airport
Road, no additional lane restrictions will be required at the intersection of Palomar Airport Road at
El Camino Real.
Palomar Airport Road Phase 2
Lane restrictions generally affect Palomar Airport Road from the east side of El Camino Real to the
west side of McClellan/Yarrow Drive. Palomar Airport Road will have two westbound lanes closed.
The intersection of Palomar Airport Road at El Camino Real will be restricted to one westbound
lane. The intersection of Palomar Airport Road at McClellan/Yarrow Drive will be partially closed
permitting only eastbound-westbound through and right turn movements and northbound-
southbound right turns.
Palomar Airport Road Phase 3
Lane restrictions generally affect Palomar Airport Road from the east side of McClellan/Yarrow
Drive to the west side of College Boulevard-Aviara Parkway. Palomar Airport Road will have two
westbound lanes closed. The intersection of Palomar Airport Road at McClellan/Yarrow Drive will
have the westbound travel lanes restricted to a single through-right turn lane; however, the
remaining intersection movements will be un-restricted. The intersection of Palomar Airport Road
at Camino Vida Roble, Palomar Oaks Way, and College Boulevard-Aviara Parkway will be partially
closed permitting only eastbound-westbound through and right turn movements and northbound-
southbound right turns.
Palomar Airport Road Phase 4
Lane restrictions generally affect Palomar Airport Road from the east side of College Boulevard-
Aviara Parkway to the west side of Paseo Del Norte. Palomar Airport Road will have two
westbound lanes closed. The intersection of Palomar Airport Road at College Boulevard-Aviara
Parkway will have the westbound travel lanes restricted to a single through-right turn lane and the
northbound dual left turn lane on College Boulevard restricted to a single left turn lane. The
intersections of Palomar Airport Road at The Crossing Drive-Hidden Valley Road and Palomar
Airport Road at Armada Drive will be partially closed, permitting only eastbound-westbound
through and right turn movements and northbound-southbound right turns. The intersection of
Palomar Airport Road at Paseo Del Norte will have various lane closures and other lane closures
when the construction moves down to Paseo Del Norte.
Paseo Del Norte Phase 1
Lane restriction will be along Paseo Del Norte south of Palomar Airport Road with restrictions of
one southbound lane and one northbound lane. The intersection of Palomar Airport Road at
Paseo Del Norte will not have lane restrictions during this phase.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-62
Road Segment Analysis – Palomar Airport Road
Two segments of Palomar Airport Road were analyzed based on available mid-block count data
from the 2013 Traffic Monitoring Program (2013 TMP). Both of these segments fall within the
proposed limits of construction. The first roadway segment was Palomar Airport Road between
Paseo Del Norte and Armada Drive and the second segment is between Yarrow Drive and El
Camino Real.
Of the five traffic control phases, Palomar Airport Road Phase 3 has the most number of
intersections affected along Palomar Airport Road causing the largest number of vehicle detours.
The vehicle detours would be needed due to the restriction against crossing the centerline of
Palomar Airport Road because of the open trench construction. Detoured vehicles include
eastbound and westbound left turns along Palomar Airport Road; and northbound and
southbound left turns and through movements across Palomar Airport Road that originate from
the side streets. These detoured vehicles would add to the background traffic on Palomar Airport
Road as they travel either east or west looking for the next possible open intersection to complete
a U-turn.
The number of detoured vehicles is based on establishing the peak hour from a side street
adjacent to Palomar Airport Road near the project. The 2013 TMP segment of College Boulevard
just north of Palomar Airport Road was used for this purpose. The peak hour on College Boulevard
is between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Although all lane closures are planned at night (9 PM through 6
AM), peak hour counts were used as a starting point because night time turn movement data was
not available. Using the PM peak hour as a starting point, a peak from Phase 3 of 2,153
redirected PM peak hour vehicles were calculated from the 2013 TMP data. The other phases had
either no intersection turn restrictions or fewer intersections with turn restrictions; therefore, the
higher detoured volumes from Phase 3 were used for the segment analysis.
The segment volumes were adjusted to non-peak hours because all lane restrictions are proposed
at night from 9 PM to 6 AM. The redirected Phase 3 PM volume was adjusted to non-peak hours
based on the ratio of the College Boulevard PM peak hour over 24 hours as a percentage of the
maximum PM volume. The Phase 3 PM peak hour volume of 2,153 was multiplied by the
individual hourly ratios to calculate the hourly detour volume. Even though the project is proposed
in 2014, other new projects are being developed and constructed in the vicinity that may add
traffic that may not have been captured by the 2013 TMP data; therefore, a 5 percent growth
factor was included for these nearby projects in development or under construction. The 5 percent
growth factor was calculated by multiplying the detour volume by 5 percent. The detour plus the
ambient growth makes up the Phase 3 detour volumes as shown in Table TR-2.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-63
TABLE TR-2
PALOMAR AIRPORT ROAD DETOUR VOLUMES BASED ON COLLEGE BLVD 2013 VOLUMES
The hourly operations of Palomar Airport Road were calculated by mapping out the hourly
westbound volumes from the 2013 TMP and adding the detour volumes from Table TR-2 above.
The analysis is based on restricted lanes with only one westbound lane open using a capacity of
1,800 vehicles per lane to determine the level of service. The segment operations for Palomar
Airport Road between Paseo Del Norte and Armada Drive are shown in Table TR-3 and in Table TR-
4 for Palomar Airport Road between Yarrow Drive-McClellan and El Camino Real.
Percentage Phase 3 Detour 5% Increase for Phase 3
of Max Peak from PM peak Ambient Growth Detour Volumes
12:00 AM to 1:00 AM 48 3.7%79 4 83
1:00 AM to 2:00 AM 25 1.9%41 2 43
2:00 AM to 3:00 AM 17 1.3%28 1 29
3:00 AM to 4:00 AM 22 1.7%36 2 38
4:00 AM to 5:00 AM 72 5.5%118 6 124
5:00 AM to 6:00 AM 200 15.2%328 16 345
6:00 AM to 7:00 AM 523 39.9%858 43 901
7:00 AM to 8:00 AM 1,030 78.5%1,690 85 1,775
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM 1,298 98.9%2,130 107 2,237
9:00 AM to 10:00 AM 882 67.2%1,447 72 1,520
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM 709 54.0%1,163 58 1,222
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM 891 67.9%1,462 73 1,535
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM 1,116 85.1%1,831 92 1,923
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM 971 74.0%1,593 80 1,673
2:00 PM to 3:00 PM 801 61.1%1,314 66 1,380
3:00 PM to 4:00 PM 867 66.1%1,423 71 1,494
4:00 PM to 5:00 PM 1,081 82.4%1,774 89 1,863
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM MAX 1,312 100.0% 2,153 108 2,261
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM 734 55.9%1,204 60 1,265
7:00 PM to 8:00 PM 447 34.1%734 37 770
8:00 PM to 9:00 PM 291 22.2%478 24 501
9:00 PM to 10:00 PM 204 15.5%335 17 352
10:00 PM to 11:00 PM 132 10.1%217 11 227
11:00 PM to 12:00 AM 78 5.9%128 6 134
Time
Notes: 2013 volume is a 2 day average (Tue 7/23/13 and Wed 7/24/13) from City of Carlsbad 2013 Traffic Monitoring Program.
College Blvd
2013 Volumes
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-64
TABLE TR-3
PALOMAR AIRPORT ROAD WESTBOUND LOS (PASEO DEL NORTE TO ARMADA DRIVE)
As shown in Table TR-3, the westbound lane restrictions and detour volumes along Palomar
Airport Road between Paseo Del Norte and Armada Drive would allow westbound operations to
remain at acceptable operations (LOS A) from 9 PM to 6 AM; however, if lane restrictions would
occur between 6 AM and 7 PM, then the segment would result in unacceptable LOS.
2013 WB Additional Total WB Number Capacity Volume to Level of
Volume Detour Volume Volume of Lanes per Lane Capacity Ratio Service
12:00 AM to 1:00 AM 108 83 191 1 1,800 0.11 A
1:00 AM to 2:00 AM 45 43 88 1 1,800 0.05 A
2:00 AM to 3:00 AM 47 29 76 1 1,800 0.04 A
3:00 AM to 4:00 AM 45 38 83 1 1,800 0.05 A4:00 AM to 5:00 AM 119 124 243 1 1,800 0.14 A
5:00 AM to 6:00 AM 290 345 635 1 1,800 0.35 A
6:00 AM to 7:00 AM 697 901 1,598 1 1,800 0.89 D
7:00 AM to 8:00 AM 937 1,775 2,712 1 1,800 1.51 F
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM 1,059 2,237 3,296 1 1,800 1.83 F
9:00 AM to 10:00 AM 1,142 1,520 2,662 1 1,800 1.48 F
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM 1,430 1,222 2,652 1 1,800 1.47 F11:00 AM to 12:00 PM 1,909 1,535 3,444 1 1,800 1.91 F
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM 2,037 1,923 3,960 1 1,800 2.20 F
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM 1,846 1,673 3,519 1 1,800 1.96 F
2:00 PM to 3:00 PM 1,878 1,380 3,258 1 1,800 1.81 F
3:00 PM to 4:00 PM 2,075 1,494 3,569 1 1,800 1.98 F
4:00 PM to 5:00 PM 2,353 1,863 4,216 1 1,800 2.34 F
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM 2,537 2,261 4,798 1 1,800 2.67 F
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM 1,892 1,265 3,157 1 1,800 1.75 F
7:00 PM to 8:00 PM 1,276 770 2,046 1 1,800 1.14 F8:00 PM to 9:00 PM 943 501 1,444 1 1,800 0.80 C
9:00 PM to 10:00 PM 518 352 870 1 1,800 0.48 A
10:00 PM to 11:00 PM 352 227 579 1 1,800 0.32 A
11:00 PM to 12:00 AM 181 134 315 1 1,800 0.18 A
Time
Notes: WB: Westbound. 2013 WB volume is a 2 day average (Wed 7/10/13 and Thur 7/11/13) from City of Carlsbad 2013 Traffic
Monitoring Program. Additional detour volume from redirected volumes due to closure of crossing Palomar Airport Road during
project construction. Capacity per lane and Level of Service from City of Carlsbad 2013 Traffic Monitoring Program.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-65
TABLE TR-4
PALOMAR AIRPORT ROAD WESTBOUND LOS (YARROW DRIVE TO EL CAMINO REAL)
As shown in Table TR-4, the westbound lane restrictions and detour volumes along Palomar
Airport Road between Yarrow Drive and El Camino Real allow westbound operations to remain at
acceptable operations (LOS A) from 9 PM to 6 AM; however, if lane restrictions would occur
between 6 AM and 7 PM, then the segment would result in unacceptable LOS.
Segment Analysis – Paseo Del Norte
The segment of Paseo Del Norte south of Palomar Airport Road was analyzed using 24 hours of
traffic data collected on Thursday January 30, 2014 (data included in full technical report). Traffic
count data was collected for this segment while the MND was being prepared because 2013
summertime traffic data was not available for this roadway segment from the City of Carlsbad. As
shown below in Tables TR-5 and TR-6, even at am and pm peak hours this roadway segment (both
northbound and southbound) operates at an LOS A. The lane restrictions along Paseo Del Norte
are south of Palomar Airport Road, with one southbound and one northbound lane closed (leaving
one lane open in each direction).
The segment analysis incorporated a cumulative project (and recently opened) Green Dragon
Tavern. Traffic from the Green Dragon Tavern was assigned to Paseo Del Norte as described in
Traffic Letter Report Attachment F. Additionally, a 5 percent factor was applied for other projects
in development or under construction and for potential additional traffic from adjacent parcels
that may have to turn rights followed by a U-turn when available. The 5 percent factor was
calculated by multiplying the background volume by 5 percent. The analysis is based on restricted
lanes with only one northbound and one southbound lane open using a capacity of 1,800 vehicles
per lane to determine the level of service. The segment operations for northbound Paseo Del
2013 WB Additional WB Total WB Number Capacity Volume to Level of
Volume Detour Volume Volume of Lanes per Lane Capacity Ratio Service
12:00 AM to 1:00 AM 53 83 136 1 1,800 0.08 A
1:00 AM to 2:00 AM 32 43 75 1 1,800 0.04 A
2:00 AM to 3:00 AM 36 29 65 1 1,800 0.04 A
3:00 AM to 4:00 AM 56 38 94 1 1,800 0.05 A
4:00 AM to 5:00 AM 239 124 363 1 1,800 0.20 A
5:00 AM to 6:00 AM 543 345 888 1 1,800 0.49 A
6:00 AM to 7:00 AM 1,070 901 1,971 1 1,800 1.10 F
7:00 AM to 8:00 AM 1,544 1,775 3,319 1 1,800 1.84 F
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM 1,317 2,237 3,554 1 1,800 1.97 F
9:00 AM to 10:00 AM 1,107 1,520 2,627 1 1,800 1.46 F
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM 1,128 1,222 2,350 1 1,800 1.31 F
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM 1,191 1,535 2,726 1 1,800 1.51 F
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM 1,210 1,923 3,133 1 1,800 1.74 F
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM 1,135 1,673 2,808 1 1,800 1.56 F
2:00 PM to 3:00 PM 1,042 1,380 2,422 1 1,800 1.35 F3:00 PM to 4:00 PM 1,116 1,494 2,610 1 1,800 1.45 F
4:00 PM to 5:00 PM 1,130 1,863 2,993 1 1,800 1.66 F
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM 1,111 2,261 3,372 1 1,800 1.87 F6:00 PM to 7:00 PM 786 1,265 2,051 1 1,800 1.14 F
7:00 PM to 8:00 PM 504 770 1,274 1 1,800 0.71 B
8:00 PM to 9:00 PM 366 501 867 1 1,800 0.48 A9:00 PM to 10:00 PM 252 352 604 1 1,800 0.34 A
10:00 PM to 11:00 PM 176 227 403 1 1,800 0.22 A
11:00 PM to 12:00 AM 90 134 224 1 1,800 0.12 A
Time
Notes: WB: Westbound. 2013 WB volume is a 2 day average (Tue 7/23/13 and Wed 7/24/13) from City of Carlsbad 2013 Traffic
Monitoring Program. Additional detour volume from redirected volumes due to closure of crossing Palomar Airport Road during
project construction. Capacity per lane and Level of Service from City of Carlsbad 2013 Traffic Monitoring Program.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-66
Norte south of Palomar Airport Road are shown in Table TR-5 and in Table TR-6 for southbound
Paseo Del Norte south of Palomar Airport.
TABLE TR-5
PASEO DEL NORTE NORTHBOUND LOS (SOUTH OF PALOMAR AIRPORT ROAD)
TABLE TR-6
PASEO DEL NORTE SOUTHBOUND LOS (SOUTH OF PALOMAR AIRPORT ROAD)
2014 SB Cumulative 5% Increase for Forecasted Number Capacity Volume to Level of
Volume Project Vol Detour and Growth 2014 SB Vol. of Lanes per Lane Capacity Ratio Service
12:00 AM to 1:00 AM 22 1 23 1 1,800 0.01 A
1:00 AM to 2:00 AM 12 1 13 1 1,800 0.01 A2:00 AM to 3:00 AM 7 0 8 1 1,800 0.00 A
3:00 AM to 4:00 AM 5 0 5 1 1,800 0.00 A
4:00 AM to 5:00 AM 3 0 3 1 1,800 0.00 A5:00 AM to 6:00 AM 16 1 16 1 1,800 0.01 A
6:00 AM to 7:00 AM 46 10 2 56 1 1,800 0.03 A
7:00 AM to 8:00 AM 151 19 8 172 1 1,800 0.10 A8:00 AM to 9:00 AM 146 23 7 176 1 1,800 0.10 A
9:00 AM to 10:00 AM 138 26 7 171 1 1,800 0.10 A
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM 175 21 9 203 1 1,800 0.11 A11:00 AM to 12:00 PM 233 47 12 289 1 1,800 0.16 A
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM 261 55 13 327 1 1,800 0.18 A
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM 277 30 14 320 1 1,800 0.18 A2:00 PM to 3:00 PM 297 20 15 331 1 1,800 0.18 A
3:00 PM to 4:00 PM 287 19 14 321 1 1,800 0.18 A
4:00 PM to 5:00 PM 326 36 16 376 1 1,800 0.21 A5:00 PM to 6:00 PM 391 62 20 469 1 1,800 0.26 A
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM 298 86 15 404 1 1,800 0.22 A
7:00 PM to 8:00 PM 191 60 10 266 1 1,800 0.15 A8:00 PM to 9:00 PM 164 49 8 222 1 1,800 0.12 A
9:00 PM to 10:00 PM 106 31 5 145 1 1,800 0.08 A
10:00 PM to 11:00 PM 45 60 2 110 1 1,800 0.06 A11:00 PM to 12:00 AM 27 1 29 1 1,800 0.02 A
ADT 3,624 653 181 4,457
Time
Notes: 2014 Volume collected on Paseo Del Norte south of Palomar Airport Road on Thursday 1/30/2014. Cumulative project volume for The Green Dragon
Tavern yet to be opened when 1/30/2014 count were collected. The total 1,305 ADT for this cumulative project matches the traffic study for The Green Dragon
Travern. The 5% growth calcualted by multiplying 2014 volume by 5%. Forecasted volume is the 2014 volume + cumulative project + 5% growth volume.
2014 NB Cumulative 5% Increase for Forecasted Number Capacity Volume to Level of
Volume Project Vol Detour and Growth 2014 NB Vol. of Lanes per Lane Capacity Ratio Service
12:00 AM to 1:00 AM 15 1 16 1 1,800 0.01 A1:00 AM to 2:00 AM 9 0 10 1 1,800 0.01 A
2:00 AM to 3:00 AM 8 0 8 1 1,800 0.00 A
3:00 AM to 4:00 AM 6 0 6 1 1,800 0.00 A4:00 AM to 5:00 AM 10 1 10 1 1,800 0.01 A
5:00 AM to 6:00 AM 47 2 48 1 1,800 0.03 A
6:00 AM to 7:00 AM 117 10 6 129 1 1,800 0.07 A7:00 AM to 8:00 AM 297 19 15 322 1 1,800 0.18 A
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM 306 23 15 344 1 1,800 0.19 A
9:00 AM to 10:00 AM 242 26 12 283 1 1,800 0.16 A10:00 AM to 11:00 AM 246 21 12 279 1 1,800 0.16 A
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM 285 47 14 344 1 1,800 0.19 A12:00 PM to 1:00 PM 252 55 13 321 1 1,800 0.18 A1:00 PM to 2:00 PM 304 30 15 347 1 1,800 0.19 A
2:00 PM to 3:00 PM 255 20 13 290 1 1,800 0.16 A3:00 PM to 4:00 PM 228 19 11 260 1 1,800 0.14 A4:00 PM to 5:00 PM 253 36 13 300 1 1,800 0.17 A
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM 298 62 15 372 1 1,800 0.21 A6:00 PM to 7:00 PM 204 86 10 305 1 1,800 0.17 A
7:00 PM to 8:00 PM 114 60 6 184 1 1,800 0.10 A
8:00 PM to 9:00 PM 71 49 4 126 1 1,800 0.07 A9:00 PM to 10:00 PM 40 31 2 75 1 1,800 0.04 A
10:00 PM to 11:00 PM 17 60 1 79 1 1,800 0.04 A
11:00 PM to 12:00 AM 9 0 10 1 1,800 0.01 AADT 3,633 653 182 4,467
Time
Notes: 2014 Volume collected on Paseo Del Norte south of Palomar Airport Road on Thursday 1/30/2014. Cumulative project volume for The Green Dragon
Tavern yet to be opened when 1/30/2014 count were collected. The total 1,305 ADT for this cumulative project matches the traffic study for The Green Dragon
Travern. The 5% growth calcualted by multiplying 2014 volume by 5%. Forecasted volume is the 2014 volume + cumulative project + 5% growth volume.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-67
As shown in Table TR-5, the northbound lane restriction along Paseo Del Norte south of Palomar
Airport Road would allow northbound operations to remain at acceptable operations (LOS A)
throughout the day or night.
As shown in Table TR-6, the southbound lane restriction along Paseo Del Norte south of Palomar
Airport Road would allow southbound operations to remain at acceptable operations (LOS A)
throughout the day or night.
Intersection Analysis
Two intersections along Palomar Airport Road were analyzed based on available count data from
the City of Carlsbad 2013 Traffic Monitoring Program. The intersections included Palomar Airport
Road at College Boulevard-Aviara Parkway and Palomar Airport Road at El Camino Real. These
intersections were selected because they will have lane restrictions associated with the project.
Other intersections will also be affected along Palomar Airport Road; however, those will have
some movements completely closed; therefore, those locations were accounted for under the
detour volume calculations in the segment analysis section. The intersections that had more
movements restricted that contributed to the detour volumes during the different Phases
included: Palomar Airport Road at McClellan/Yarrow Drive; Palomar Airport Road at Camino Vida
Roble; Palomar Airport Road at Palomar Oaks Way; Palomar Airport Road at College Boulevard-
Aviara Parkway; Palomar Airport Road at The Crossing Drive-Hidden Valley Road; Palomar Airport
Road at Armada Drive; and Palomar Airport Road at Paseo Del Norte. These seven
aforementioned intersections were not analyzed with the lane restrictions because the ICU delay
cannot be calculated for an intersection with traffic that is detoured away rather than going
through an intersection. The two intersections with available TMP data and without detoured
movements were analyzed as described below.
The intersection of Palomar Airport Road at College Boulevard-Aviara Parkway is planned to have
two of the three westbound lanes closed and one of the College Boulevard dual northbound left
turn lanes closed due to the temporary westbound lane closures along Palomar Airport Road.
Due to the proposed trenchless construction under El Camino Real north of Palomar Airport Road,
this intersection will only have two of the three westbound lanes closed due to the temporary
westbound lane closures along Palomar Airport Road west of El Camino Real where active
construction would occur.
The intersection volumes were adjusted to non-peak hours because all lane restrictions are
proposed at night from 9 PM to 6 AM except for a portion of the project area where construction
will be concluded at 5pm to avoid conflicts with planned bus service for bus Route 309. The
adjustment was based on the ratio of Palomar Airport Road PM peak hour over 24 hours as a
percentage of the maximum PM volume. For example, the PM peak (maximum) volume on
Palomar Airport Road between 4-5 PM is 2,649 vehicles. The next hour from 5-6 PM has 2,596
vehicles or about 98% of the maximum PM peak. These percentages were used to reduce the
overall AM and PM peak hour volumes from the 2013 TMP to forecast intersection ICU LOS
operations for hours other than the AM and PM peaks (ICU calculations and 2013 TMP volumes
for Palomar Airport Road are included in the full technical report). The percentage of the maximum
peak hour along with the ICU and LOS for the intersection of Palomar Airport Road at College
Boulevard-Aviara Parkway and the intersection of Palomar Airport Road at El Camino Real are
shown in Table TR-7.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-68
TABLE TR-7
OFF-PEAK INTERSECTION OPERATIONS ALONG PALOMAR AIRPORT ROAD
As shown in Table TR-7, the intersection of Palomar Airport Road at College Boulevard-Aviara
Parkway is calculated to operate at LOS A during the night time construction from 9 PM to 6 AM.
The intersection of Palomar Airport Road at El Camino Real is also calculated to operate at LOS A
during the night time construction from 9 PM to 6 AM.
North County Transit District Bus Route on Palomar Airport Road
The North County Transit District (NCTD) has four bus routes identified that use Palomar Airport
Road. These include Routes 309, 444, 445, and 446. An excerpt of the bus route map and
schedules for these routes are included in the traffic report (LOS Engineering, 2014) on file with
the District.
Bus route 309 generally runs along El Camino Real; however, this route serves a bus stop
near Palomar Airport Road and Yarrow Drive from Monday through Friday between the
hours of 5:21 AM and 8:43 PM.
Bus route 444 runs along Palomar Airport Road from Avenida Encinas to College Boulevard
Monday through Friday generally between the hours of 7:25 AM and 5:35 PM.
Bus route 445 generally runs along Palomar Airport Road from Avenida Encinas to Las
Posas Monday through Friday generally between the hours of 7:25 AM and 5:40 PM.
Bus route 446 runs along Palomar Airport Road from Paseo Del Norte to Armada Monday
through Friday generally between the hours of 7:25 AM and 5:39 PM.
2013 Percentage
Volume of
Combined Maximum LOS LOS
EB & WB Peak Hour ICU With Restriction ICU With Restriction
12:00 AM to 1:00 AM 150 5.7%1:00 AM to 2:00 AM 77 2.9%
2:00 AM to 3:00 AM 74 2.8%
3:00 AM to 4:00 AM 95 3.6%
4:00 AM to 5:00 AM 316 11.9% 0.20 A 0.19 A
5:00 AM to 6:00 AM 789 29.8% 0.34 A 0.35 A
6:00 AM to 7:00 AM 1,573 59.4% 0.59 A 0.60 A
7:00 AM to 8:00 AM 2,517 95.0% 0.87 D 0.90 D
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM 2,273 85.8%
9:00 AM to 10:00 AM 1,906 72.0%
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM 1,906 72.0%
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM 2,206 83.3%12:00 PM to 1:00 PM 2,329 87.9%
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM 2,274 85.8%
2:00 PM to 3:00 PM 2,150 81.2%
3:00 PM to 4:00 PM 2,453 92.6%
4:00 PM to 5:00 PM MAX 2,649 100.0%
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM 2,596 98.0%
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM 1,918 72.4% 1.05 F 0.82 D7:00 PM to 8:00 PM 1,277 48.2% 0.72 C 0.57 A
8:00 PM to 9:00 PM 987 37.3% 0.58 A 0.47 A
9:00 PM to 10:00 PM 735 27.7%
10:00 PM to 11:00 PM 481 18.2%
11:00 PM to 12:00 AM 293 11.1%
Notes: 2013 EB and WB volume is a 2 day average (Tue 7/23/13 and Wed 7/24/13) from City of Carlsbad 2013 Traffic Monitoring
Program. ICU ratio for Level of Service from City of Carlsbad 2013 Traffic Monitoring Program.
Airport Rd at College Blvd Airport Rd at El Camino Real
Intersection of: Palomar Intersection of: Palomar
LOS A through deduction with
less volume than 6-7 AM
Remaining LOS will be at or
below LOS D because
intersection volumes higher
during day than night
Remaining LOS will be at or
below LOS D because
intersection volumes higher
during day than night
LOS A through deduction with
less volume than 5-6 AM
Time
LOS A through deduction with
less volume than 8-9 PM
LOS A through deduction with
less volume than 8-9 PM
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-69
According to the published bus schedules, all normally operating buses will have completed their
routes on Palomar Airport Road before the lane restrictions are implemented from 9 PM to 6 AM,
except for Route 309. Therefore, the project will complete work by 5 AM at the intersection of
Palomar Airport Road at McClellan/Yarrow Drive to avoid impacting the operations of Route 309.
No transit impacts or conflicts are on the remaining Routes 444, 445, and 446 with the night time
construction from 9 PM to 6 AM.
Bicyclists and Pedestrians
There are designated bike lanes and sidewalks throughout the majority of the proposed project
area. The volume of bicyclists and pedestrians is not anticipated to be significant during the night
when the project is proposed to have the lane closures from 9 PM to 6 AM. However, bicyclists
and pedestrians would be expected to follow the detour signs in the same manner as required of
vehicle operators.
Conclusions
Short-term construction related vehicle trips generated by the project would total approximately
30 trips per day. Given the existing LOS of the roadways during the night time, these additional
short-term construction related trips would not affect roadway segment or intersection LOS.
The Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project proposed by the Buena Sanitation District will
require the temporary closure of two westbound lanes along Palomar Airport Road generally from
El Camino Real to Paseo Del Norte and temporary closure of one northbound and one southbound
lane along Paseo Del Norte south of Palomar Airport Road. The temporary lane closures along
Palomar Airport Road are proposed at night between the hours of 9 PM and 6 AM and will remain
at acceptable LOS. However, several intersections along Palomar Airport Road will have temporary
restrictions for some movements that will result in detours. The District will continue coordinating
with the city of Carlsbad during the project construction on:
Maintaining pedestrian and bicycle restrictions to prevent crossing Palomar Airport Road or
Paseo Del Norte in and around the lane restrictions during construction,
Potentially extending the left turn phasing to accommodate the extra U-turning vehicles
from the detour at the ends of the construction zones,
Observing and reporting traffic flow concerns to the City of Carlsbad during construction,
Implementing the traffic control features such as bike lane closures, side walk closures,
and red flashing mode for traffic signals as noted on the traffic control plans,
Completing construction work at the intersection of Palomar Airport Road at
McClellan/Yarrow Drive by 5 AM to avoid impacting the operations of Bus Route 309,
Coordinating with Caltrans if encroachment permits are needed for traffic control devices
encroaching on to Caltrans right-of-way near I-5 and Palomar Airport Road, and
Preventing any lane restrictions from creating dead-end roadways.
The NCTD transit service would not be affected by the night time lane restriction on Palomar
Airport Road because bus service is not scheduled between the hours of 9 PM and 6 AM.
Therefore, the proposed night time lane restrictions from 9 PM to 6 AM resulted in acceptable LOS
for the study segments and intersections and do not impact the bus schedule as shown in Table
TR-8.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-70
TABLE TR-8
RECOMMENDED TIMES FOR LANE RESTRICTIONS ALONG PALOMAR AIRPORT ROAD
The recommended time restrictions for the westbound lane closures along Palomar Airport Road
match the preliminary proposed construction hours, which would restrict the lane closures to the
hours between 9 PM and 6 AM.
The study intersections and roadway segments did not drop below LOS C (for off-peak) between
the hours of 9 PM and 6 AM; therefore, the project would not have a significant impact on traffic
or circulation according to the City of Carlsbad Growth Management Plan.
Project construction would be phased, therefore the temporary disruptions will occur in sections
along Palomar Airport Road generally starting near El Camino Real and ending on Paseo Del Norte
south of Palomar Airport Road. The project is estimated to take approximately one year to
complete.
The temporary lane closures along Paseo Del Norte would not result in unacceptable LOS
regardless of the time of day; therefore, Paseo Del Norte is not recommended to have restrictions
for temporary lane closures based on traffic.
c.-f. No Impact.
Development of the proposed project would not result in a change in air traffic patterns, including
either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location, which would result in substantial safety
risks. A segment of the project site is located adjacent to the McClellan-Palomar Airport in
Carlsbad. Project traffic would not cause an increase in air traffic levels, or create a physical
impediment that would necessitate an alteration of flight patterns. Significant impacts would not
occur with project development.
Segment of Segment of Bus
Palomar Airport Rd Palomar Airport Rd Route
Paseo del Norte Yarrow Dr to 309
to Armada Dr El Camino Real along
1 Lane Open WB 1 Lane Open WB Palomar
LOS LOS ICU LOS ICU LOS Airport Rd
12:00 AM to 1:00 AM A A
1:00 AM to 2:00 AM A A2:00 AM to 3:00 AM A A
3:00 AM to 4:00 AM A A
4:00 AM to 5:00 AM A A 0.20 A 0.19 A
5:00 AM to 6:00 AM A A 0.34 A 0.35 A 5:21 AM6:00 AM to 7:00 AM D F 0.59 A 0.60 A
7:00 AM to 8:00 AM F F 0.87 D 0.90 D
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM F F
9:00 AM to 10:00 AM F F10:00 AM to 11:00 AM F F
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM F F
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM F F
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM F F2:00 PM to 3:00 PM F F
3:00 PM to 4:00 PM F F
4:00 PM to 5:00 PM F F
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM F F6:00 PM to 7:00 PM F F 1.05 F 0.82 D
7:00 PM to 8:00 PM F B 0.72 C 0.57 A
8:00 PM to 9:00 PM C A 0.58 A 8:43 PM
9:00 PM to 10:00 PM A A10:00 PM to 11:00 PM A A11:00 PM to 12:00 AM A A No Lane RestrictionsLane
Restrictions OK
Lane
Restrictions OK
Recommended
Times for Lane
Restrictions
Bold indicates unacceptable LOS and shading represents times that lane restrictions could adversly affect roadway users.
Intersection of
Palomar Airport Rd
at College Blvd
with Lane
Restrictions
Intersection of
Palomar Airport Rd
LOS A through
deduction with less
volume than 6-7 AM
Remaining LOS will
be at or below D
because intersection
volumes higher during
day than night
LOS A through
deduction with less
volume than 7-8 PM
LOS A through
deduction with less
volume than 8-9 PM
Remaining LOS will
be at or below D
because intersection
volumes higher during
day than night
LOS A through
deduction with less
volume than 6-7 AM
Time
Various
bus
service
through-
out day
No
Service
No
Service
at El Camino Real
with Lane
Restrictions
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-71
Development of the proposed project does not involve any potentially dangerous traffic or
transportation hazards, nor does it propose any incompatible uses that could affect existing traffic
or circulation in the project areas. The proposed project would not result in impacts to emergency
access. As a result, significant impacts would not occur with project development.
The project would not conflict with any adopted policies, plans, or programs supporting alternative
transportation. As a result, no significant impacts would occur.
Transportation and Traffic Mitigation Measures
None required.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-72
XVII. Utilities and Service Systems
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
a. Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the
applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board?
b. Require or result in the construction of new water or
wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing
facilities, the construction of which could cause
significant environmental effects?
c. 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?
d. Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the
project from existing entitlements and resources, or are
new or expanded entitlements needed?
e. Result in a 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?
f. Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity
to accommodate the project’s solid waste disposal
needs?
g. Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and
regulations related to solid waste?
DISCUSSION
a. No Impact.
The proposed project involves the construction of a new sewer/wastewater line that would be
located within existing roadways. The project would not result in the generation of new
wastewater. Wastewater that would be conveyed within the project alignment would be treated at
the existing Encina Water Pollution Control Facility, which is a conventional activated sludge
wastewater treatment plant with a treatment capacity of 36 million gallons per day (mgd). The
sanitation district and wastewater treatment facility operate in accordance with applicable
wastewater treatment requirements of the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board, and
the project’s wastewater system has been designed to comply with these treatment requirements.
Therefore, upon development, the proposed development would tie into existing
wastewater/sewer lines and would adhere to all wastewater treatment requirements specified by
the City and the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board so that no impacts would occur.
b. Less than Significant Impact.
The proposed project involves the construction of a new sewer/wastewater line that would be
located within existing roadways. The Buena Outfall Force Main - Phase III project will realign the
existing outfall sewer system with a new pipeline generally following Palomar Airport Road
between El Camino Real on the east and Paseo Del Norte on the west. As stated above,
wastewater from the project would be treated by the Encina Water Pollution Control Facility.
Wastewater generation from the proposed project would not exceed the capacity of the facility to
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-73
treat it. Therefore, the project’s contribution of wastewater would not require new
water/wastewater facilities to be built or existing facilities to expand; therefore, impacts would be
less than significant.
c. No Impact.
The proposed project involves the construction of a new, linear, underground sewer/wastewater
line that would be located within existing roadways. As discussed in the Hydrology and Water
Quality section of this document, with implementation of the proposed project, impervious surface
coverage would not increase from existing conditions because the new sewer pipeline would be
located within an existing paved roadway that would be restored following the completion of
construction. Because the post development flows would be equal to the existing conditions, no
detention facilities are needed. As a result, development of the proposed project would not result
in substantial erosion, siltation, or flooding on- or off-site, or exceed the capacity of existing or
planned downstream stormwater drainage systems. Therefore, no impacts would result from
project development.
d.-f. Less than Significant Impact.
Construction of the proposed project would result in less than significant impacts to water
supplies, wastewater capacity, and permitted landfill capacity. Potential impacts on each utility
service are discussed below.
Development of the proposed project site would not result in an increase in the demand for
potable water because the proposed project is a linear underground project and not a land
development project. Water service for project construction would be provided by water trucks as
needed and would not affect existing water supplies or water suppliers.
As previously discussed above, the proposed project would not generate new wastewater. The
District, through its Sewer Master Plan Update, is restoring and upgrading the capacity and
condition of the existing sanitary sewer conveyance system over a 20-year period. The proposed
project is a key element of the planned sewer system upgrades. Therefore, project-related impacts
would be considered less than significant.
Development of the project would result in a temporary, short-term, construction-related increase
in solid waste generation during project construction because some demolition is required. The
project would comply with AB 939, which requires cities to divert 50 percent of solid waste to
recycling programs and away from landfills. Solid waste generated by the proposed project would
either be hauled to the existing Palomar Waste Transfer Station in Carlsbad, which has a
permitted daily capacity of 2,250 tons per day or the Sycamore Landfill in San Diego, which has a
permitted capacity of 2,500 tons per day (tpd) and an average daily intake of 900 tpd. Both of
these solid waste facilities are capable of accommodating the small amounts of solid waste that
may be generated by the proposed project during construction. Because the project’s contribution
would be negligible in terms of the remaining capacity of these available landfills, impacts would
be less than significant. No mitigation measures are required.
g. No Impact.
The proposed project would comply with all regulations related to solid waste such as the
California Integrated Waste Management Act and city recycling programs; therefore, no impacts
would occur.
Utilities and Service Systems Mitigation Measures
None required.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 2 – Initial Study Environmental Checklist
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 2-74
XVIII. Mandatory Findings of Significance
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
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 plant or animal community,
reduce the number or restrict the range of 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
current projects, and the effects of probable future
projects)?
c. Does the project have environmental effects, which
will cause substantial adverse effects on human
beings, either directly or indirectly?
DISCUSSION
a. Less than Significant with Mitigation.
With implementation of the mitigation measures for air quality, biological resources, cultural
resources, hazardous materials, hydrology and water quality and noise, the proposed Buena
Outfall Force Main Phase III Project would not 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 plant or animal community,
reduce the number or restrict the range of rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate
important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory.
b. Less than Significant Impact.
Implementation of the proposed project would not result in individually limited nor cumulatively
considerable significant impacts. All resource topics associated with the project have been
analyzed in accordance with CEQA and the State CEQA Guidelines and were found to pose no
impacts, less-than-significant impacts, or less than significant impacts with mitigation. In addition,
taken in sum with other projects in the area the scale of the proposed project is small and any
potential impacts environmental resources or issue areas would be short-term and would not be
cumulatively considerable.
c. Less than Significant Impact.
The project would result in short-term construction related impacts but would not result in
permanent or substantial adverse impacts on persons in the vicinity. All resource topics
associated with the proposed project have been analyzed in accordance with CEQA and the State
CEQA Guidelines and were found to pose no impacts, less than significant impacts, or less than
significant impacts with mitigation. Consequently, the project would not result in any
environmental effects that would cause substantial adverse effects on human beings directly or
indirectly.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 3 – References and List of Preparers
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014 Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 3-1
Chapter 3
REFERENCES AND LIST OF PREPARERSREPARERS
Individuals and Organizations Consulted
Elmer Alex, P.E., Senior Engineer, City of Vista/Buena Sanitation District
Steve Jepsen, Sewer Program Manager, City of Vista/Buena Sanitation District
Robin Putnam, Sewer Program Director, City of Vista/Buena Sanitation District
John Hamilton, Environmental Planner, City of Vista/Buena Sanitation District
Community Development Department
Ryan Morgan, P.E., Project Manager, Lee & Ro, Inc.
Tom Holliman, P.E., Managing Principal, Lee & Ro, Inc.
Maria Alvarez, P.E., Senior Engineer, Lee & Ro, Inc.
Don King, P.E., DHK Engineers, Inc.
Terry Smith, Senior Engineer, City of Carlsbad
John Kim, Associate Engineer, City of Carlsbad
Glen Van Peski, Engineering Manager, City of Carlsbad
Pam Drew, Senior Planner, City of Carlsbad
Mark Biskup, Associate Engineer, City of Carlsbad
References
Section 15150 of the State CEQA Guidelines permits an environmental document to incorporate
by reference other documents that provide relevant data. The documents listed below are hereby
incorporated by reference. The pertinent material is summarized throughout this Initial Study
where that information is relevant to the analysis of impacts of the proposed project. All
referenced documents that are starred * are on file and available for review at the City of Vista
Land Development Counter located at 200 Civic Center Drive, Vista.
Affinis Environmental Services. Cultural Resources Survey Letter Report. July 1, 2013.*
Association of Environmental Professionals (AEP). Alternative Approaches to Analyzing
Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Global Climate Change in CEQA Documents. 2007.
California Air Resources Board (CARB). Climate Change Scoping Plan. 2008.
California Department of Conservation, Division of Mines and Geology. Mineral Land
Classification: Aggregate Materials in the Western San Diego County Production-
Consumption Region. Special Report 153. 1993.
California Department of Conservation. San Diego County Important Farmland Map. 2004.
California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). Technical Noise Supplement. October 1998.
California Department of Transportation (CalTrans). Transportation- and Construction-Induced
Vibration Guidance Manual. June 2004.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 3 – References and List of Preparers
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 3-2
City of Carlsbad. 2013 Traffic Management Plan.2013.
City of Carlsbad. Carlsbad General Plan. 2010.
City of Carlsbad. Envision Carlsbad General Plan Update.
http://www.carlsbadca.gov/services/departments/community/envision-
carlsbad/Documents/PreferredPlan.09112012.pdf. Website accessed August 13, 2013.
City of Carlsbad. Fiscal Year 2012-13 Growth Management Plan Monitoring Report. 2013.
City of Carlsbad. Noise Guidelines Manual. 1995.
City of Carlsbad. Standard Urban Storm Water Management Plan. January 11, 2011.
City of Carlsbad. Zoning Map.
http://www.carlsbadca.gov/services/departments/planning/Documents/zone1117.pdf.
Website accessed June 4, 2013.
City of Vista. 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update Final Program EIR. [State Clearinghouse No.
2007091072]. May 2008.
City of Vista. 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update. January 2008.
County of San Diego. McClellan-Palomar Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan. 2004.
DHK Engineers, Inc. Odor Control Technical Memorandum. 2013.
Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment. May 2006.
Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR). CEQA Guidelines and Greenhouse Gas
Emissions.http://www.opr.ca.gov/index.php?a=ceqa/index.html. Website accessed April 6,
2010.
Helix Environmental Planning. Biological Resources Technical Letter Report. February 2014. *
Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE). Trip Generation 9th Edition. 2012.
Lee & Ro, Inc. Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III, Draft Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan.
February 2014.
Lee & Ro, Inc. Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III, Preliminary Design Report. October 2013. *
LOS Engineering, Inc. Traffic Letter Report. February 2014.*
North County Transit District. Schedules & Maps. January 9, 2014.
RCH Group. Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Technical Report. February 2014. *
RCH Group. Noise Technical Report. February 2014. *
RCH Group. Phone Memo: Odor Control Buena Vista Outfall Project, discussion with Don King of
DHK Engineers. January 31, 2014.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 3 – References and List of Preparers
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 3-3
Terra Costa Consulting Group. Geotechnical Design Report. October 13, 2009. *
Terra Costa Consulting Group. Preliminary Geologic and Geotechnical Investigation – Buena
Outfall Force Main Phase III. April 25, 2013. *
Traffic Control Solutions, LLC. Draft Traffic Control Plan – Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III
Project. June 2013. *
Trenchless International.
(http://trenchlessinternational.com/news/calculating_airborne_emissions_in_undergroun
d_utility_projects/004595/). October 2009
Urban Systems Associates, Inc. Traffic Impact Analysis for the Green Dragon Tavern. February
2009.
List of Preparers
Leslea Meyerhoff, AICP, Principal/Project Manager, Harvey Meyerhoff Consulting Group, Inc.
Dr. Jeffrey Harvey, Principal/Senior Scientist, Harvey Meyerhoff Consulting Group, Inc.
Elizabeth Meyerhoff, Environmental Planner, Harvey Meyerhoff Consulting Group, Inc.
Jennifer Reed, Technical Editor, Harvey Meyerhoff Consulting Group, Inc.
Maria Pascoal, Graphic Design Artist, Harvey Meyerhoff Consulting Group, Inc.
Paul Miller, Principal of Environmental Services, RCH Group, Inc.
Justin Rasas, P.E., PTOE, LOS Engineering, Inc.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 3 – References and List of Preparers
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 3-4
APPENDIX A
The following Project Design Features (PDF) and Standard Conditions of Approval (SCA) are
contained in the 2008 Sewer Master Plan Program EIR (PEIR) and will be incorporated into the
proposed project design and are listed here for reference.
Aesthetics Project Design Features
A-PDF 1 Vegetation that is removed will be replaced, or in the case of natural areas,
revegetated to blend with adjacent natural areas. All disturbed areas would be
returned to pre-construction conditions.
A-PDF 2 Demolition debris shall be removed in a timely manner for off-site disposal.
A-PDF 3 Tree and vegetation removal shall be limited to those depicted on construction
drawings.
A-PDF 4 All above ground odor control structures shall be screened from public view through
site orientation, landscaping, or other aesthetic treatment.
Air Quality Project Design Features
AQ-PDF 1 Water or dust control agents shall be applied to active grading areas, unpaved
surfaces, and dirt stockpiles as necessary to prevent or suppress particulate matter
from becoming airborne. All soil to be stockpiled over 30 days shall be protected
with a secure tarp or tackifiers to prevent windblown dust.
AQ-PDF 2 Covering/tarping will occur on all vehicles hauling dirt or spoils on public roadways
unless additional moisture is added to prevent material blow-off during transport.
AQ-PDF 3 Grading and other soil handling operations shall be suspended when wind gusts
exceed 25 miles per hour. The construction supervisor shall have a hand-held
anemometer for evaluating wind speed.
AQ-PDF 4 Dirt and debris spilled onto paved surfaces at the project site and on the adjacent
roadway shall be swept or vacuumed and disposed of at the end of each workday to
reduce resuspension of particulate matter caused by vehicle movement. During
periods of soil export or import, when there are more than six trips per hour, dirt
removal from paved surfaces shall be done at least twice daily.
AQ-PDF 5 Disturbed areas shall be revegetated as soon as work in the area is complete.
AQ-PDF 6 Electrical power shall be supplied from commercial power supply wherever feasible,
to avoid or minimize the use of engine-driven generators.
AQ-PDF 7 Air filters on construction equipment engines shall be maintained in clean condition
according to manufacturers’ specifications.
AQ-PDF 8 The construction contractor shall comply with the approved traffic control plan to
reduce non-project traffic congestion impacts. Methods to reduce construction
interference with existing traffic and the prevention of truck queuing around local
sensitive receptors shall be incorporated into this plan.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 3 – References and List of Preparers
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 3-5
AQ-PDF 9 Staging areas for construction equipment shall be located as far as practicable
from residences.
Geology and Soils Standard Conditions of Approval
GS-SCA 1 The project shall adhere to recommendations contained within the Preliminary
Geologic and Geotechnical Report (2013) and the Geotechnical Design Report
(2009) prepared by TerraCosta Consulting Group.
GS-SCA 2 A precise sedimentation erosion control plan shall be required in accordance with
the City of Vista Grading Ordinance and prior to final approval of the project. Short-
term erosion effects during the construction phase of the project would be
prevented through implementation of the erosion control plan, which includes the
implementation of standard practices such as sandbags, silt fencing, and
temporary detention to control on-site and off-site erosion.
GS-SCA 3 All segments of the 2008 Sewer Master Plan Update will be constructed in
accordance with California Building Code Standards and accepted standards for
public works construction. These standards pertain to protection against seismic
activity, settlement, liquefaction, and other integrity issues.
GS-SCA 4 A study shall be conducted during final design for all project components. Each
respective component shall adhere to the findings of the Geotechnical study
including recommendations regarding soil compaction and replacement.
Hazards and Hazardous Materials Standard Conditions of Approval
HHM-SCA 1 Fire safety information shall be disseminated to construction crews during regular
safety meetings. Fire management techniques shall be applied during project
construction as deemed necessary by the lead agency and depending on site
vegetation and vegetation of surrounding areas.
HHM-SCA 2 A brush management plan will be incorporated during project construction by the
District or its contractors, as necessary. Construction within areas of dense foliage
during dry conditions will be avoided, when feasible. In cases where avoidance is
not feasible, necessary brush fire prevention and management practices will be
incorporated. Specifics of the brush management program will be determined as
site plans for the project are finalized.
HHM-SCA 3 A site-specific record search for the locations and type of hazardous materials will
be conducted during final design.
HHM-SCA4 The use, storage, transportation, and disposal of chemicals and use of petroleum
fuel during construction and operation of the project will be regulated by the County
Department of Hazardous Waste Management, and will be conducted according to
all applicable state, federal and local regulations.
HHM-SCA 5 In order to ensure that the project does not cause a significant hazard to the public
or the environment through release of or transport of hazardous materials during
construction and operation, the District through its contractors will implement the
following project design features: pipelines of the project components would be
constructed with PVC pipe, or other material, which is highly resistant to rupture.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 3 – References and List of Preparers
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 3-6
HHM-SCA 6 Prior to construction, the District will prepare a traffic control plan in accordance
with the City of Carlsbad traffic control guidelines that will specifically address
construction traffic during construction of project components within the public
right-of-way.
Hydrology and Drainage Project Design Features
HWQ-PDF 1 During construction, the District will comply with the current California Regional
Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) permit for construction dewatering (Order Number 98-67 or
current permit) and obtain a NPDES permit for stormwater and runoff discharge for
project components resulting in grading of more than 1 acre. In compliance with the
RWQCB requirements and the NPDES permit a Best Management Practices (BMP)
program for stormwater pollution control and Storm Water Pollution Prevention
Program (SWPPP) will be implemented.
HWQ-PDF 2 Material stockpiled during construction shall be placed such that interference with
onsite drainage patterns will be minimized or avoided. During rain events,
stockpiles shall be covered with impermeable materials such as tarps in order to
allow flow from the construction site to occur without excessive sediment loading.
HWQ-PDF 3 BMPs shall include both sediment control measures to prevent rainfall from
contacting exposed soil surfaces, and erosion control measures (e.g., gravel bags)
to prevent eroded material from leaving construction areas, especially from flat
graded areas, in accordance with the required erosion control plan.
HWQ-PDF 4 A construction spill contingency plan shall be prepared in accordance with County
Department of Environmental Health regulations and retained on site by the
construction manager. If soil is contaminated by a spill, the soil shall be properly
removed and transported to a legal disposal site.
HWQ-PDF 5 If groundwater is encountered and dewatering is required, then the groundwater
shall be disposed of by pumping to the sanitary sewer system or discharging to the
storm drain system according to the conditions of the appropriate discharge permit.
HWG-PDF 6 For all potential impacts to natural drainages (i.e., pre-development hydrology),
BMPs on-site shall be used to fully reduce the potential for project-related
contaminants in the surface flows prior to their discharge to streams.
Noise Project Design Features
N-PDF 1 Heavy equipment shall be repaired at sites as far as practical from nearby
residences.
N-PDF 2 Construction equipment, including vehicles, generators and compressors, shall be
maintained in proper operating condition and shall be equipped with
manufacturers’ standard noise control devices or better (e.g., mufflers, acoustical
lagging, and/or engine enclosures).
N-PDF 3 Electrical power shall be supplied from commercial power supply, wherever
feasible, in order to avoid or minimize the use of engine-driven generators.
Buena Sanitation District Chapter 3 – References and List of Preparers
Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project September 2014
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration/Initial Study Checklist Page 3-7
N-PDF 4 Staging areas for construction equipment shall be located as far as practicable
from residences.
N-PDF 5 Operating equipment shall be designed to comply with all applicable local, state,
and federal noise regulations.
N-PDF 6 If lighted traffic control devices are to be located within 500 feet of residences, the
devices shall be powered by batteries, solar power, or similar sources, and not by
an internal combustion engine where practical.
N-PDF 7 The District or its construction contractors shall provide advance notice, between
two and four weeks prior to construction, by mail to all residents or property owners
within 300 feet of the alignment. The announcement shall state specifically where
and when construction will occur in the area. If construction delays of more than 7
days occur, an additional notice shall be made, either in person or by mail. The
District shall also publish a notice of impending construction in local newspapers,
stating when and where construction will occur.
N-PDF 8 The District shall identify and provide a public liaison person before and during
construction to respond to concerns of neighboring residents about noise and other
construction disturbance.
N-PDF 9 The District shall also establish a program for receiving questions or complaints
during construction and develop procedures for responding to callers. Procedures
for reaching the public liaison officer via telephone or in person shall be included in
notices distributed to the public in accordance with the information above.
Transportation Project Design Features
TR-PDF 1 Maintain pedestrian and bicycle restrictions to prevent crossing Palomar Airport
Road or Paseo Del Norte in and around the lane restrictions during project
construction.
TR-PDF 2 Potentially extend the left turn phasing to accommodate the extra U-turning vehicles
from the detour at the ends of the construction zones.
TR-PDF 3 Observing and reporting traffic flow concerns to the City of Carlsbad during
construction.
TR-PDF 4 The traffic control features such as bike lane closures, sidewalk closures, and red
flashing mode for traffic signals should be implemented as noted on the traffic
control plans.
Appendix B
Comments and Responses
on the Draft MND
SLR Comments Regarding Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III – CIP 8131 Page 1
SAN LUIS REY BAND OF MISSION INDIANS
1889 Sunset Drive • Vista, California 92081
760-724-8505 • FAX 760-724-2172
www.slrmissionindians.org
May 8, 2014
Elmer Alex
P.E. Senior Engineer VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL
Buena Sanitation District ealex@ci.vista.ca.us
200 Civic Center Drive
Vista, CA 92084-6275
RE: COMMENTS ON THE NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR A CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT
PROJECT – BUENA OUTFALL PHASE III PROJECT (CIP 8131)
Dear Mr. Alex:
We, the San Luis Rey Band of Mission Indians (“Tribe”), have received and reviewed the
Buena Sanitation District’s (“District’s”) Notice of Intent to Adopt a Mitigated Negative
Declaration (“MND”) and all of its supporting documentation as it pertains specifically to the
protection and preservation of Luiseño Native American cultural resources that may be located
within the parameters of the Buena Outfall Phase III Project (“Project’s”) property boundaries.
After our review, the Tribe is satisfied, and concurs, with the proposed Cultural Resource
Mitigation Measures (CR-1 through CR-7) contained within the MND and that the Project
should be allowed to proceed as proposed.
The Tribe, however, is opposed to any undocumented fill being used during the proposed
development. In the event the “fill” will be imported into the Project area, the Tribe requests that
any proposed use of fill be clean of cultural resources and documented as such. It has been a
practice of many in the construction profession to utilize fill materials that contained cultural
resources from other “unknown” areas thereby contaminating the potential cultural landscape of
the area being filled. This type of fill material is unacceptable. Moreover, if the fill material is to
be utilized from areas within the Project boundaries, then we ask that that fill be analyzed and
confirmed by an archeologist and/or Luiseño Native American monitor that such fill material
does not contain cultural resources. A requirement that fill material be absent of any and all
cultural resources should therefore be included as an additional mitigation measure of the Final
MND.
The San Luis Rey Band of Mission Indians appreciates this opportunity to provide the
Buena Sanitation District with our comments on the Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project.
As stated above, the Tribe is satisfied with the mitigation measures for Cultural Resources as
SLR Comments Regarding Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III – CIP 8131 Page 2
proposed in the MND. As always, we look forward to working with the District to guarantee
that the requirements of the CEQA are rigorously applied to this Project and all projects. We
thank you for your continuing assistance in protecting our invaluable Luiseño cultural resources.
Sincerely,
Merri Lopez-Keifer
Tribal Legal Counsel
cc: Melvin Vernon, Tribal Captain
Carmen Mojado, Secretary of Government Relations and President of Saving Sacred
Sites
Buena Sanitation District September 2014
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM FOR
THE BUENA OUTFALL FORCE MAIN PHASE III PROJECT
September 2014 PROJECT NAME: Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project (CIP 8131)
DESCRIPTION: The District is proposing to construct a new Buena Outfall that begins at an
existing force main just east of manhole #55A. The proposed project will replace
and re-route the existing Buena Outfall. The Buena Outfall starts as a pressurized
force main then continues across El Camino Real, parallel to the existing Buena
Outfall sewer, approximately 650 feet southwest to the north side of Palomar
Airport Road. The force main then proceeds within the westbound lanes of
Palomar Airport Road towards the intersection of Yarrow Drive and Palomar
Airport Road. The alignment continues west for approximately 2,600 feet to a
high point before the intersection of Yarrow and Palomar Airport Road. A
proposed manhole will be placed where the force main will end and discharge into
the proposed gravity sewer and continue approximately another 5,500 feet in the
westbound lanes of Palomar Airport Road. At approximately Palomar Oaks Way,
the pipeline would transitions to force main and continues to the intersection of
Palomar Airport Road and Paseo Del Norte. The pipeline will then transition back
to a gravity sewer main and turn south and proceed within the southbound lanes
of Paseo Del Norte a distance of approximately 1,200 feet and tie into the existing
48-inch and 30-inch trunks sewers, which flow, to the Encina Water Pollution
Control Facility located west of Interstate 5.
LOCATION: The project alignment begins at the northeast corner of the intersection of
Palomar Airport Road and El Camino Real, traverses within the westbound lanes
of Palomar Airport Road and terminates within Paseo Del Norte, approximately
1,200 feet south of Palomar Airport Road, in the City of Carlsbad, northwestern
San Diego County.
The following Mitigation Measures are to be implemented before, during or after construction in
accordance with the project conditions of approval, thereby reducing all identified potentially significant
impacts to a less than significant level.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program – Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project (CIP 8131)
Buena Sanitation District September 2014
MITIGATION MEASURES STAFF
MONITOR
TIMING OF
COMPLIANCE
DATE OF
COMPLIANCE
AQ-1 All construction equipment will be maintained at appropriate mechanical and electronic tuning
levels per the manufacturer's specifications. Diesel equipment, including dump trucks waiting
to deliver or receive soil, gravel, aggregate or other bulk materials, standing idle for more than
five minutes shall be turned off in accordance with the Regulation for In-Use Off-Road Vehicles
(California Code of Regulations Title 13, Article 4.8, Chapter 9, Section 2449(d)(3)), which took
effect June 15, 2008:
(A) Idling Limit—No Vehicles or engines subject to this regulation may idle for more than five
consecutive minutes. Idling of a vehicle that is owned by a rental company is the responsibility
of the renter or lessee, and the rental agreement should so indicate. The idling limit does not
apply to:
1. Idling when queuing,
2. Idling to verify that the vehicle is in safe operating condition,
3. Idling for testing, servicing, repairing or diagnostic purposes,
4. Idling necessary to accomplish work for which the vehicle was designed (such as operating
a crane),
5. Idling required to bring the machine system to operating temperature, and
6. Idling necessary to ensure safe operation of the vehicle
(B) Written Idling Policy—As of March 1, 2009, medium and large fleets must also have a
written idling policy that is made available to operators of the vehicles and informs them that
idling is limited to five consecutive minutes or less.
(C) Waiver—A fleet owner may apply to the Executive Officer for a waiver to allow additional
idling in excess of five consecutive minutes. The Executive Officer shall grant such a request
upon finding that the fleet owner has provided sufficient justification that such idling is
necessary.
District
Engineer
During
construction
AQ 2 Project construction shall implement the following measure in order to minimize construction-related
emissions due to dust:
Limit traffic speeds on unpaved roads to 15 mph.
District
Engineer
During
construction
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program – Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project (CIP 8131)
Buena Sanitation District September 2014
MITIGATION MEASURES STAFF
MONITOR
TIMING OF
COMPLIANCE
DATE OF
COMPLIANCE
BIO 1 In order to avoid impacts to adjacent open space habitats during construction, open space interfaces
will require temporary orange construction fencing which clearly delineates the edge of the
approved limits of grading and clearing and environmentally sensitive areas beyond. This fencing
shall be installed in all areas adjacent to protected open spaces, and shall be installed prior to
construction, and maintained for the duration of construction activity. Fencing shall be installed
in a manner that does not impact habitats to be avoided. At least seven days prior to initiating
project impacts, the final plans and photographs for initial clearing and grubbing of habitat and
project construction shall be submitted to the District for review and approval. These final plans
shall include photographs that show the fenced limits of impact and all areas to be impacted or
avoided. If work occurs beyond the fenced or demarcated limits of impact, all work in the area
shall cease until the problem has been remedied and mitigation identified, to the satisfaction of
a qualified biological monitor. Temporary orange construction fencing shall be removed upon
completion of construction of the project.
District
Engineer
Prior to
construction
BIO 2 The District shall install temporary silt barriers along the limits of project impacts (including
construction staging areas and access routes) adjacent to open space habitats to prevent
additional habitat impacts and prevent the spread of silt from the construction zone into
adjacent habitats to be avoided. Silt fencing shall be installed in a manner that does not impact
habitats to be avoided.
District
Engineer
Prior to
construction
BIO 3 In order to adequately protect the adjacent open spaces, the District shall ensure that the following
mitigation measures are implemented during project construction by incorporating them into
the design/contractor specifications of the project:
• Employees shall strictly limit their activities, vehicles, equipment and construction materials
to the fenced project footprint;
• Pets of project personnel shall not be allowed on the project site;
• Disposal or temporary placement of excess fill, brush or other debris shall not be allowed in
waters of the United States or their banks;
• All equipment maintenance, staging, and dispensing of fuel, oil, coolant, or any other such
activities shall occur in designated areas within the fenced project impact limits and in such
a manner as to prevent any runoff from entering offsite open spaces, and shall be shown on
the construction plans. Fueling of equipment shall take place within existing paved areas.
Contractor equipment shall be checked for leaks prior to operation and repaired as
necessary. "No-fueling zones" shall be designated on construction plans; and
• Night lighting, if any, of construction staging areas shall be of the lowest illumination
necessary for human safety, selectively placed, shielded, and directed away from adjacent
natural habitats.
District
Engineer
Prior to
construction
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program – Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project (CIP 8131)
Buena Sanitation District September 2014
MITIGATION MEASURES STAFF
MONITOR
TIMING OF
COMPLIANCE
DATE OF
COMPLIANCE
BIO 4 The hydroseed mix or landscape mix in areas adjacent to open spaces shall not include any invasive
exotic seeds or plants identified on List A and List B of the California Exotic Plant Council’s List of
Exotic Plants of Greatest Ecological Concern in California, as of October 1999, and updated if
applicable. Implementation of this measure shall be verified by the District during review of the
Erosion Control Plans.
District
Engineer
Following
completion of
active
construction
phases
BIO 5 In the event that the preferred option of utilizing trenchless construction methods (e.g., jack and
bore, directional drilling) for pipeline installation between STA 196+00 and STA 201+48 at the
intersection of Palomar Airport Road and El Camino Real cannot be implemented, and activities
requiring the direct removal, trimming and/or pruning of the eucalyptus and pine trees located along
the pipeline alignment at this location are determined necessary for installation, the District shall
require that the activities are performed outside of the general breeding season for migratory birds
and raptors, which is defined as occurring between January 15 and September 15. If activities
requiring the direct removal, trimming and/or pruning of the trees must occur during the general
bird breeding season, the District shall retain a qualified biologist to perform a pre-construction
survey of the trees to confirm the absence of active nests belonging to migratory birds and raptors
afforded protection under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and California Fish and Game Code. The pre-
construction survey shall be performed no more than three days prior to the commencement of
removal, trimming, and/or pruning of the eucalyptus and pine trees. If the qualified biologist
determines that no active migratory bird or raptor nests occur, the activities shall be allowed to
proceed without any further requirements. If the qualified biologist determines that an active
migratory bird or raptor nest is present, no impacts shall occur until the young have fledged the nest
and the nest is confirmed to no longer be active, as determined by the qualified biologist.
Implementation of this measure to ensure compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and
California Fish and Game Code shall be verified by the District.
District
Engineer
Prior to
construction in
affected area
CR 1 Prior to the start of any grading/trenching/ground-disturbing work on the Project, the District shall
enter into a pre-excavation agreement with the San Luis Rey Band of Luiseño Mission Indians (San
Luis Rey Band), the local Luiseño Native American tribe. The purpose of this agreement shall be to
formalize protocols and procedures between the District and the San Luis Rey Band for the protection
and treatment of, including but not limited to, Native American human remains, funerary objects,
cultural and religious landscapes, ceremonial items, traditional gathering areas and cultural items,
located and/or discovered through a monitoring program in conjunction with the construction of the
proposed project, including additional archaeological surveys and/or studies, excavations,
geotechnical investigations, grading, and all other ground disturbing activities.
District
Engineer
Prior to
construction
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program – Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project (CIP 8131)
Buena Sanitation District September 2014
MITIGATION MEASURES STAFF
MONITOR
TIMING OF
COMPLIANCE
DATE OF
COMPLIANCE
CR 2 Prior to the start of any grading/trenching/ground-disturbing work on the Project, the District shall
provide written and signed verification to the District Manager stating that a Luiseño Native American
Monitor and a Qualified Archaeologist have been retained at the District’s expense to implement the
monitoring program, as described in the pre-excavation agreement.
District
Engineer
Prior to
construction
CR 3 The Qualified Archaeologist shall maintain ongoing consultation with the Luiseño Native American
Monitor during ground disturbing activities. The requirement for the monitoring program shall be
noted on all applicable construction documents, including demolition plans, grading plans, etc. The
District shall notify the District Manager in writing of the start and end of all ground disturbing
activities subject to monitoring.
District
Engineer
Ongoing
during
construction
CR 4 The Luiseño Native American Monitor and Qualified Archaeologist shall attend all applicable pre-
construction meetings with the General Contractor and/or associated Subcontractors to present the
monitoring program. The Luiseño Native American Monitor and Qualified Archaeologist shall be
present on-site during grubbing, excavating, trenching and/or any other ground disturbing activities,
to identify evidence of potential archaeological resources. This includes excavation/trenching
beneath existing artificial fills. If fill materials are used they shall be absent of any and all cultural
resources. The Luiseño Native American Monitor and Qualified Archaeologist shall have the authority
to halt monitoring activities in areas where excavation is in formational soils and there is potential for
cultural material to be encountered.
District
Engineer
Ongoing
during
construction
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program – Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project (CIP 8131)
Buena Sanitation District September 2014
MITIGATION MEASURES STAFF
MONITOR
TIMING OF
COMPLIANCE
DATE OF
COMPLIANCE
CR 5 The Qualified Archaeologist or the Luiseño Native American Monitor may halt ground disturbing
activities if unknown archaeological artifact deposits or cultural features are discovered. Ground
disturbing activities shall be directed away from these deposits to allow a determination of potential
importance. Isolates and clearly non-significant deposits will be minimally documented in the field,
and before grading, excavation or trenching proceeds these items shall be given to the San Luis Rey
Band so that they may be repatriated at a later date. If a determination is made that the unearthed
artifact deposits or cultural features are considered potentially significant, the San Luis Rey Band
shall be notified and consulted with in regards to the respectful and dignified treatment of those
resources. The avoidance and protection of the significant cultural resource and/or unique
archaeological resource is the preferable mitigation. If however, a data recovery plan is authorized by
the District as the Lead Agency under CEQA, the San Luis Rey Band shall be notified and consulted
regarding the drafting and finalization of any such recovery plan. For significant artifact deposits or
cultural features that are part of a data recovery plan, an adequate artifact sample to address
research avenues previously identified for sites in the area will be collected using professional
archaeological collection methods. If the Qualified Archaeologist collects such resources, the Luiseño
Native American monitor must be present during any testing or cataloging of those resources.
Moreover, if the Qualified Archaeologist does not collect the cultural resources that are unearthed
during the ground disturbing activities, the Luiseño Native American Monitor may, at their discretion,
collect said resources and provide them to the San Luis Rey Band for respectful and dignified
treatment in accordance with the Tribe’s cultural and spiritual traditions.
District
Engineer
Ongoing
during
construction
CR-6 Following completion of the construction, a monitoring report and/or evaluation report, if appropriate,
which describes the results, analysis and conclusions of the archaeological monitoring program (e.g.,
data recovery plan) shall be submitted by the Qualified Archaeologist, along with the Luiseño Native
American monitor’s notes and comments, to the Director of Community Development for approval.
District
Engineer
Post-
construction
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program – Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project (CIP 8131)
Buena Sanitation District September 2014
MITIGATION MEASURES STAFF
MONITOR
TIMING OF
COMPLIANCE
DATE OF
COMPLIANCE
CR-7 As specified by California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5, if human remains are found on the
project site during ground disturbing activities or during archaeological work, the person responsible
for the excavation, or his or her authorized representative, shall immediately notify the San Diego
County Coroner’s office by telephone. No further excavation or disturbance of the site or any nearby
area reasonably suspected to overlie adjacent remains shall occur until the Coroner has made the
necessary findings as to origin and disposition pursuant to Public Resources Code 5097.98. If such a
discovery occurs, a temporary construction exclusion zone shall be established surrounding the area
of the discovery so that the area would be protected, and consultation and treatment could occur as
prescribed by law. By law, the Coroner will determine within two working days of being notified if the
remains are subject to his or her authority. If the Coroner recognizes the remains to be Native
American, he or she shall contact the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) within 24 hours.
The NAHC will make a determination as to the Most Likely Descendent. If Native American remains
are discovered, the remains shall be kept in situ, or in a secure location in close proximity to where
they were found, and the analysis of the remains shall only occur on-site in the presence of a Luiseño
Native American Monitor.
HM 1 The District shall ensure that all trash, debris, and waste materials are disposed of off-site, in
accordance with current local, state, and federal disposal regulations, including any containers which
may contain paint. Any hazardous materials which may be potentially encountered during
construction will be evaluated prior to removal and disposal consistent with the construction HASP
and throughout daily construction operations. Any buried trash/debris shall be evaluated by a
Qualified Environmental Professional (as defined by 40 Code of Federal Regulation Section 312.10)
prior to removal.
District
Engineer
Ongoing
during
construction
HWQ-1 Mitigation measures listed below shall be implemented in order to reduce impacts to jurisdictional
waters.
• Prior to construction, the District shall obtain all necessary permits to comply with the
federal Clean Water Act, state discharge permitting requirements, and local grading
ordinances. Copies of each permit shall be maintained at the project site for the duration of
construction.
• Biological Resources mitigation measures BIO-2 and BIO-3 provide mitigation for projects
affecting downstream waters and potential wetlands.
District
Engineer
Prior to
construction
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program – Buena Outfall Force Main Phase III Project (CIP 8131)
Buena Sanitation District September 2014
MITIGATION MEASURES STAFF
MONITOR
TIMING OF
COMPLIANCE
DATE OF
COMPLIANCE
N-1 The District or its construction contractors shall develop a Nighttime Noise Mitigation Plan to be
implemented within 300 feet of the hotels along the proposed pipeline route. The plan shall be
developed in coordination with the hotel management staff. The plan shall include, but not be
limited to:
• The contractor shall appoint a construction liaison that shall be responsible for coordinating
any/all complaints about construction with District staff and the City of Carlsbad,
responding to any local complaints about construction noise, and notifying the hotels
regarding dates and the anticipated length of construction.
• Installation of temporary noise barriers, when necessary and where feasible, to block the
line of sight between major construction noise generating activities and nearby hotel rooms.
• Require construction during daytime hours for the Motel 6 on the western end of the
construction route, and any other receptors identified that have high sensitivity to nighttime
noise.
• Require contractors to modify nighttime construction activities, as feasible, when they
receive complaints from the nearest adjacent receptors. This could include developing
schedules so that the loudest activities would occur in the first couple of hours of
construction each shift if nighttime construction is utilized.
District
Engineer
Prior to
construction