HomeMy WebLinkAboutEIR 05-05; PONTO BEACHFRONT VILLAGE VISION PLAN; Environmental Impact Report (EIR)(Final-Part 4); 2007-08-01ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-1 August 2007
6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
6.1 Rationale for Alternative Selection
CEQA requires the consideration of alternative development scenarios and the analysis of
impacts associated with the alternatives. Comparing these alternatives to the proposed
project, the advantages of each alternative can be analyzed and evaluated. Section 15126.6 of
the CEQA Guidelines requires that an EIR:
“describe a range of reasonable alternatives to the project, or to the location of the
project, which would feasibly attain most of the basic objectives of the project, but
would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the project, and
evaluate the comparative merits of the alternatives.”
Additionally, CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6 states in part:
An EIR need not consider every conceivable alternative to a project. Rather, it must
consider a reasonable range of potentially feasible alternatives that will foster
informed decision-making and public participation. An EIR is not required to
consider alternatives that are infeasible (15126.6(a)).
The range of potential alternatives to the proposed project shall include those that could
feasibly accomplish most of the basic objectives of the project and could avoid or
substantially lessen one or more of the significant effects. The EIR should briefly describe
the rationale for selecting the alternatives to be discussed. The EIR should also identify any
alternatives that were considered by the lead agency but were rejected as infeasible during
the scoping process and briefly explain the reasons underlying the lead agency’s
determination.
Among the factors that may be used to eliminate alternatives from detailed consideration in
an EIR are: (i) failure to meet most of the basic project objectives, (ii) infeasibility, or (iii)
inability to avoid significant environmental impacts (15126.6(c)).
The specific alternative of “No Project” shall also be evaluated along with its impact
(15126.6(e)(1)).
If the environmentally superior alternative is the “No Project” Alternative, the EIR shall also
identify an environmentally superior alternative among the other alternatives (15126.6(e)(2)).
A comparison of the proposed alternatives is presented in Table 6-1.
6.1.1 Alternatives Considered but Rejected from Further Detailed Analysis
6.1.1.1 Open Space Alternative
The Open Space Alternative assumes that the project development area would remain in its
current state with the existing residential, commercial, and light industrial uses, and
undeveloped parcels. No development would be proposed on the remaining undeveloped
parcels of the Ponto Area; however, the undeveloped areas of the site would be preserved as
dedicated open space for habitat preservation and/or potential recreational use. The Ponto
Area would be rezoned as Open Space and amendments to the General Plan and LCP would
be required. An open space easement would be dedicated over the undeveloped areas to
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Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-2 August 2007
ensure that this acreage remained in perpetuity as the intended use. Recreational uses may
include interpretive hiking trails or bike paths that would provide a linkage to other trails in
the area. Other passive activities such as picnicking may also be permitted.
This alternative would reduce impacts to traffic, air quality, and noise as compared to the
proposed project, as no additional development on the site would occur, thereby reducing
resultant vehicle trips and emissions as compared to the proposed project. In addition,
biological impacts would also be reduced, as no sensitive species or habitat would be
impacted by future development activities on the undeveloped parcels, since they would be
preserved as open space for the long-term. Visual impacts, while not significant under the
proposed project, would be reduced because there would be no new development.
Almost all of the property within the area affected by the Vision Plan is privately owned and
currently zoned to allow for development. Under the existing zoning, none of the ownerships
within the 50-acre Ponto Area are intended for open space, habitat preservation, or long-term
biological management. Under this alternative, the existing development would remain, and
individual landowners of the undeveloped parcels would not be allowed to propose
development or improvements on their property as desired. The City would likely be required
to enter an eminent domain process with the current landowners to acquire the open space.
Although this alternative would achieve the SCCRA Plan’s goal of developing new beach
and coastal recreational opportunities, the majority of the other goals established by the Plan
would not be obtained. By preserving the undeveloped areas of the site as open space, the
following goals would not be achieved: (1) assembling of land into parcels for modern,
integrated development with improved pedestrian and vehicular circulation in the Project
Area; (2) rezoning, redesigning and developing properties which are stagnant or improperly
utilized; (3) increase, improve and preserve the City’s supply of housing affordable to very
low, low and moderate income utilized; (4) eliminate blight and environmental efficiencies in
the Project Area; and, (5) increase parking and open space amenities. In addition, this
alternative would not meet the goals of the Vision Plan or the General Plan for development
of this area.
In addition, the Open Space Alternative fails to achieve the majority of the objectives of the
Vision Plan. This alternative would not meet the goals of establishing a mixed-use district
that encourages local and tourist-oriented retail, commercial, recreational and residential
uses, or accommodating a mix of local and tourist-serving commercial, medium- and high-
density residential, mixed use, live/work, and open space land use opportunities that are
economically viable and support the implementation of these goals. In addition, this
alternative would not establish the Southern Coastal Gateway to the City, as no
improvements would be made to signify such an entry point. As this alternative would not
meet these and other objectives, this alternative is not considered a viable option and was
rejected from further analysis.
6.1.1.2 Alternate Location Alternative
The Alternate Location Alternative assumes that the intent and guidelines given in the Vision
Plan will be applied to an alternative location within the City of Carlsbad. Alternate locations
considered included properties both within and outside of the SCCRA.
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Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-3 August 2007
Although other land is available within the SCCRA, the Ponto Area represents an area with
large, undeveloped acreage where the existing General Plan, zoning designations and Local
Coastal Program would allow for the uses proposed in the Vision Plan. Under the existing
zoning, a mixed-use district that encourages local and tourist-oriented retail, commercial,
recreational, and residential uses could be developed. In addition, the proposed site’s
proximity to the State Beach allows for the opportunity to supplement and enhance existing
recreational and scenic resources within the City, consistent with the goals of the Vision
Plan. The proposed project site also represents an opportunity to establish and enhance the
entry corridor into southern Carlsbad, creating a Southern Coastal Gateway to the City, and
thereby controlling potential visual impacts that may result if parcels within 50-acre area
were developed individually without the design guidelines given in the Vision Plan.
By proposing development of the Vision Plan uses at an alternate location within the
SCRRA, it can be assumed that impacts to traffic, air, and noise would be similar to that of
the proposed project, as similar uses would be proposed and thereby, a similar number of
vehicle trips would be generated (although potentially at different locations and therefore,
different traffic distribution patterns may result). Impacts to biological resources may be
increased as compared to the proposed project depending on the alternative site selected, as a
large portion of the Ponto project site is currently either developed or disturbed, with limited
sensitive biological resources.
Opportunities for an alternate site outside of the SCRRA, within the City of Carlsbad, were
also analyzed. However, due to the uses intended with the Vision Plan, an available site (or
combination of parcels) of adequate size was not identified. In addition, this alternative
would not achieve the objective of providing expanded beach access, as another site of
adequate size to support the uses proposed while providing proximity to the beach was not
identified within the City of Carlsbad. This alternative would also not establish the Southern
Coastal Gateway to the City, as the Ponto Area includes the southernmost coastal property
within the City of Carlsbad. Therefore, the opportunity to achieve the goal of enhancing the
major entryway into the City at the southerly boundary would not be an option at an alternate
location.
In addition, a site outside of the SCCRA would not achieve the SCCRA’s Plan goal to
eliminate blight and environmental deficiencies in the Ponto Area, or to develop new beach
and coastal recreational opportunities. In addition, the re-alignment of Carlsbad Boulevard
re-alignment that would yield excess property to facilitate expansion of the Carlsbad State
Beach campgrounds and/or provide for other recreational facilities would not occur if an
alternate site were selected.
The Alternate Location Alternative would not achieve many of the objectives and goals of
the Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan or the SCCRA Plan. Therefore, this alternative is
rejected from further analysis.
6.2 Analysis of the No Development Alternative
6.2.1 No Development Alternative Description and Setting
The No Development Alternative assumes that the project site would not be developed with
the proposed project. The project site would remain in its present condition and would
continue to support the existing single-family residential and small-scale commercial and
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-4 August 2007
light-industrial uses. No onsite or offsite roadway improvements, including Carlsbad
Boulevard, would occur with this alternative. Although this alternative is similar to the Open
Space Alternative, preservation of the undeveloped portions of the Ponto Area would not be
guaranteed for the long-term through zoning or dedication of an open space easement.
6.2.2 Comparison of the Effects of the No Development Alternative to the Proposed
Project
6.2.2.1 Air Quality
As the No Development Alternative would not result in development of the site, the uses
proposed with the Vision Plan would not be developed, thereby reducing the number of
vehicle trips generated by uses on the property. Therefore, the No Development Alternative
would result in an incremental reduction in air quality impacts as compared to the proposed
project. In addition, grading of the site would not be required, thereby incrementally reducing
air quality impacts associated with operation of heavy construction equipment as compared
to the proposed project. Therefore, impacts on air quality under the No Development
Alternative would be reduced as compared to the project.
6.2.2.2 Biological Resources
As no additional development would occur with this alternative, disturbed areas on the site
would remain in their present state as undeveloped land. This alternative would not propose
to preserve onsite habitat through dedication of open space lots or within a dedicated
easement; however, as no development would occur on the site, potential impacts to
biological resources both on and off the site would not occur. Impacts to biological resources
under the No Development Alternative would be avoided and therefore, reduced as compared
to the proposed project.
6.2.2.3 Cultural Resources
As no development would take place on the site under this alternative, potential impacts
caused by disturbance to undiscovered cultural resources during grading or construction
activities would not occur. Mitigation in the form of monitoring during such activities would
therefore not be required. Therefore, potential impacts to cultural resources would be reduced
with the No Development Alternative as compared to the proposed project.
6.2.2.4 Hazards and Hazardous Materials
With this alternative, the site would remain in its present state, with the existing residential,
commercial and light industrial uses remaining. This alternative would not result in
additional housing or development on the site that could potentially expose persons to the
risk of hazardous materials; however, existing conditions on the site would remain, wherein
continued exposure of current residents to potentially hazardous materials identified during
the Phase I ESA would continue. The potential for impacts resulting from hazards or
hazardous materials under the No Development Alternative would be reduced as compared to
the proposed project.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-5 August 2007
6.2.2.5 Noise
As no improvements would occur on the site under the No Development Alternative, noise
generated by temporary construction or grading activities would not occur. In addition, as no
residential or hotel units would be constructed, and noise potentially generated by the
operation of commercial uses, such as vehicular activity or delivery truck activity, would not
occur. Therefore, noise impacts under this alternative would be reduced as compared to the
proposed project.
6.2.2.6 Traffic and Circulation
As compared to the proposed project, this alternative would not result in the construction of
new residential units or commercial uses that would generate additional vehicular trips along
area roadways. As stated above, no additional onsite or offsite roadway improvements would
occur with this alternative. Therefore, impacts to traffic and circulation under the No
Development Alternative would be reduced as compared to the proposed project.
6.2.2.7 Visual Aesthetics and Grading
As compared to the proposed project, impacts to visual resources would be less than
significant. No improvements would be made to enhance the scenic corridor, and as no
development would occur and current uses on the site would remain, there would be no
changes to the existing conditions onsite. Therefore, visual impacts would be reduced as
compared to the proposed project.
6.2.2.8 Agricultural Resources
As compared to the proposed project, impacts to agricultural resources would be less than
significant. However, no conversion of former agricultural lands would occur. Therefore,
impacts to agricultural resources would be reduced as compared to the proposed project.
6.2.2.9 Geology and Soils
As compared to the proposed project, impacts to geology and soils resources would be less
than significant. Therefore, impacts to geology and soils would be the same as compared to
the proposed project.
6.2.2.10 Hydrology and Water Quality
As with the proposed project, this alternative would not result in a significant impact on
existing hydrology and water quality. The site would remain in its present state and no
alteration of the site or other surface features would occur. However, no Best Management
Practices (BMPs) would be implemented and no drainage improvements would occur.
Surface water runoff would continue to leave the site untreated as it presently does,
potentially resulting in impacts on hydrology and water quality. As a result, potential impacts
on hydrology and water quality are considered to be greater under this alternative as
compared to the proposed project.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-6 August 2007
6.2.2.11 Land Use
As with the proposed project, land use impacts would be less than significant under this
alternative. As no development would occur, and current uses on the site would remain, no
revisions to the existing land use or zoning designations would be required. Therefore, land
use and planning impacts would be reduced as compared to the proposed project.
6.2.2.12 Public Utilities and Service Systems
As with the proposed project, this alternative would not result in significant impacts on
utilities or public services. However, under the No Development Alternative, a lesser demand
would be placed on existing or future utility systems and public services, as no development
would occur on the site, and new residents and recreational commercial uses would not
require public water or sewer or other services, such as law enforcement or fire service
protection. Therefore, this alternative is considered to reduce impacts on utilities and service
systems as compared to the proposed project.
6.2.3 Rationale for Preference of Proposed Project over the No Development
Alternative
The No Development Alternative would reduce or avoid all of the impacts associated with
the proposed project, with the exception of hydrology and water quality, as BMPs to control
drainage from the site would not be implemented. Therefore, the No Development
Alternative is considered to be the Environmentally Superior Alternative. However, this
alternative does not meet any of the project objectives, such as establishing the Southern
Coastal Gateway to the City or providing a balanced and cohesive mix of local and tourist-
serving commercial, medium- and high-density residential, mixed use, live/work, and open
space land use opportunities that would be economically viable. In addition, this alternative
would not establish a pattern of pedestrian and bicycle accessibility that would link with
adjacent existing and planned pedestrian and bicycle facilities, or establish a mixed-use
district that encourages local and tourist-oriented retail, commercial, recreational and
residential uses. For these reasons, this alternative was rejected from further consideration.
6.3 Analysis of the No Project Alternative
The analysis of the No Project Alternative is required under CEQA Guidelines. As set forth
in CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e)(2), the No Project analysis shall discuss the existing
conditions at the time the Notice of Preparation is published and “what would be reasonably
expected to occur in the foreseeable future if the project were not approved, based on current
plans and consistent with available infrastructure and community services.” Section
15126.6(e)((3)(B) adds that, for a development project on identifiable property, the No
Project alternative Alternative is the circumstance under which the project does not proceed,
and “the discussion would compare the environmental effects of the property remaining in its
existing state against environmental effects that would occur if the project is approved.”
6.3.1 No Project Alternative Description and Setting
Under the No Project Alternative, the Vision Plan development area would be developed as
allowed under the current General Plan land use and zoning designations without special
permitting. As the proposed project does not propose a change to the underlying General
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-7 August 2007
Plan or zoning, and The proposed project would allow the same uses as those allowed under
the existing General Plan designations and zoning, as well as the underlying Specific Plans
(Poinsettia Properties Specific Plan and the Poinsettia Shores Master Plan), uses developed
under the No Project Alternative would be similar to that proposed with the Vision Plan;
however, the Vision Plan envisions uses that would actually result in a decreased intensity
than what would that ultimately be allowed under the existing land use designations. The No
Project Alternative would allow the property to be developed with travel/recreational
commercial, medium-high residential uses, or as open space or parks.
In the southern portion of the site, the existing General Plan designation would allow for
travel and recreational commercial uses, such as hotels, restaurants, and commercial retail, to
enhance the tourism and recreational opportunities in the City. In the northern portion of the
site, residential housing could be provided at a density of 8-15 dwelling units per acre, or in
combination with travel and recreational commercial uses. Areas that are currently
designated as unplanned “Unplanned” may require further planning to determine appropriate
uses.
Similar to the proposed project, this alternative would ultimately contribute to offsite road
improvements, as applicable, to mitigate for future potential traffic impacts caused by
vehicular trips generated by onsite uses. This alternative could would also propose onsite
trails and linkage to the regional trail system for recreational use. In addition, improvements
would be made, consistent with the Zone 9 and 22 LFMPs, to provide public water and sewer
service to the site. Development onsite would be consistent with the Scenic Corridor
Guidelines and would contribute to improvements along Carlsbad Boulevard, but would not
result in an overall themed design approach that would establish and enhance a major
entryway into the City of Carlsbad.
6.3.2 Comparison of the Effects of the No Project Alternative to the Proposed Project
6.3.2.1 Air Quality
The No Project Alternative could generate a greater number of vehicle trips as developed to
its full potential under the existing land use and zoning designations, thereby incrementally
increasing air quality impacts as compared to the proposed project. Although a greater
intensity of uses is assumed under this alternative, gGrading requirements for building pads,
as well as the time period heavy equipment would be in operation, would likely be similar to
that of the proposed project. Therefore, due to additional traffic generation, impacts on air
quality under the No Project Alternative would be increased as compared to the proposed
project.
6.3.2.2 Biological Resources
With the No Project Alternative, impacts on biological resources would be similar as
compared to the proposed project. Although the use of the site is assumed to be more intense
under the Under the No Project Alternative, the development footprint would remain largely
the same as compared to the proposed project. In addition, grading required for the
development of the 50-acre sitedevelopment area would be roughly the same; therefore,
potential biological impacts to on sensitive resources resulting from noise generated by heavy
equipment would be similar with this alternative. Other potential impacts, such as night
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-8 August 2007
lighting and threats from domesticated pets, would also be similar. Therefore, with the No
Project Alternative, impacts on biological resources would be similar as compared to the
proposed project.
6.3.2.3 Cultural Resources
As similar development would take place on the site under this alternative, potential impacts
caused by disturbance to undiscovered cultural resources during grading or construction
activities would be similar to that of the proposed project. Mitigation in the form of
monitoring during such activities would be required. Therefore, potential impacts to cultural
resources would be similar with the No Project Alternative as compared to the proposed
project.
6.3.2.4 Hazards and Hazardous Materials
With this alternative, the site would be developed with uses allowed under the existing
zoning and General Plan land use designations, which would include residential, commercial
and tourism-oriented uses. The existing residential, commercial and light industrial uses
would be allowed to remain. This alternative would result in additional housing or
development on the site that could potentially expose persons to the risk of hazardous
materials. Additional analysis of the site in the form of a Phase II ESA may be required to
further assess potentially hazardous materials identified during the Phase I ESA. The
potential for impacts resulting from hazards or hazardous materials under the No Project
Alternative would be similar as compared to the proposed project.
6.3.2.5 Noise
With this alternative, noise impacts would be increased as compared to the project, as a more
intense development of the site could potentially occur. This alternative would generate
construction noise similar to the proposed project because the same type of construction
equipment would be used; however, long-term noise impacts are assumed to be
incrementally greater than the proposed project due to increased intensity in use of the site
(i.e. more delivery trucks, mechanical equipment, etc.). As a result, similar mitigation
measures to those required for the proposed project would be required as part of this
alternative to reduce potential noise impacts. Therefore, noise impacts would be greater with
the No Project Alternative as compared to the proposed project.
6.3.2.6 Traffic and Circulation
The No Project Alternative could result in increased traffic and circulation impacts as
compared to the proposed project, depending on the ultimate buildout of the project area.
Please see Table 5.6-3 in Section 5.6 of this EIR. Table 5.6-3 calculates the potential traffic
generation that could occur under the existing General Plan designations. As the Vision Plan
proposes a less intense development of the site than that which would be allowed under the
existing General Plan designations, traffic generated by development of the site under the No
Project Alternative would be greater. Access would occur from the same points as under the
proposed project (Avenida Encinas and Ponto Road and Beach Way). Traffic generated
under this alternative would utilize the same roadways as the proposed project; however,
impacts to these roadways would be greater with the increase in vehicles trips generated by
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-9 August 2007
the more intense use of the site, thereby increasing significant impacts on these roadways
over that resulting from the proposed project. Mitigation in the form of improvements to
these roadways and intersections would be similar to that required of the proposed project.
Therefore, the No Project Alternative would result in increased impacts to traffic and
circulation as compared to the proposed project.
6.3.2.7 Visual Aesthetics and Grading
Under this alternative, impacts on landform and visual aesthetics would be similar as
compared to the proposed project, as the development area and potential uses would be
similar. Development would be subject to the City’s Scenic Corridor Guidelines and the
requirements of the Landscape Design Manual to reduce the potential for visual impacts to
occur. Mitigation Design measures in the form of landscaping manufactured slopes and
screening of retaining walls would be required. However, there would be no plan for a
cohesive mix of landscaping and architecture or adopted design guidelines. Therefore,
potential visual impacts would be greater under this alternative.
6.3.2.8 Agricultural Resources
As comparedSimilar to the proposed project, impacts to agricultural resources would be less
than significant. Therefore, impacts to agricultural resources would be the same as compared
to the project.
6.3.2.9 Geology and Soils
Similar to the proposed project, no significant impacts relating to geologic resources would
occur under this alternative. Although additional grading of onsite soils may be required due
to a potential increase in the number of units or square footage of development, grading
would not result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil, or increase exposure of
residents to the risk of landslides or earthquakes. As such, potential impacts from geological
resources under this alternative would be similar to that of the proposed project.
6.3.2.10 Hydrology and Water Quality
As with the proposed project, this alternative would not result in a significant impact on
hydrology or water quality. The amount of impervious surfaces on the site would be similar
with the No Project Alternative as compared to the project in terms of driveways and
roadways, and the development footprint is assumed to also be similar. Required stormwater
facilities would be adjusted accordingly. Similar design measures and BMPs required for the
proposed project would be required for this alternative to minimize potential water quality
impacts. Therefore, impacts to water quality and hydrology would be similar as compared to
the proposed project.
6.3.2.11 Land Use and Planning
As with the proposed project, no significant land use impacts would occur with this
alternative. The No Project Alternative would be consistent with applicable land use plans
and zoning, as development of the site would occur under the current land use and zoning
designations. Therefore, land use impacts under this alternative would be similar to the
proposed project and no mitigation would be required.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-10 August 2007
6.3.2.12 Public Utilities and Public Service Systems
As with the proposed project, this alternative would not result in significant impacts on
utilities or public services, as all development would be consistent with the requirements of
the LFMPs for Zones 9 and 22. However, under the No Project Alternative, it is assumed that
a greater demand would be placed on existing or future utility systems and public services, as
a greater number of residential units or greater intensity of commercial uses could occur,
thereby incrementally increasing the demand for public water and sewer and other services,
such as law enforcement and fire service protection, and educational services at local
schools. Therefore, this alternative would increase impacts on public utilities and service
systems as compared to the proposed project.
6.3.3 Rationale for Preference of the Proposed Project over the No Project Alternative
Like the proposed project, this alternative would be consistent with all land use plans and
zoning, and would reflect the type of development originally intended for the site under the
General Plan. However, with the No Project Alternative, impacts to traffic and circulation,
noise, utilities and public service systems, as well as air quality, would be greater than the
proposed project, due to the potential increase in the number of proposed residential units or
square footage of development.
This alternative would meet the objective of conforming with the General Plan, Amended
Zone 9 and 22 Local Facilities Management Plans (LFMP), applicable City ordinances,
regulations and policies. This alternative would also meet the objective of establishing a
mixed-use district that encourages local and tourist-oriented retail, commercial, recreational
and residential uses, as such uses would be allowed under the existing land use and zoning
designations. This alternative would also be required to assure that public facilities and
services meet the requirements of the Growth Management Plan.
However, as the Vision Plan would not be implemented with this alternative, this alternative
would not achieve the project objectives of establishing the Southern Coastal Gateway to the
City or providing site design guidelines that require street scenes and site plans to respect
pedestrian scale and express a cohesive and high-quality architectural theme. In addition, this
alternative would not provide for expanded and enhanced beach access, or establish a mixed-
use district that encourages local and tourist-oriented retail, commercial, recreational and
residential uses. This alternative would also not achieve the objective of requiring
landowners within the project development area to utilize landscape architecture that
celebrates the historic past and horticultural heritage of the City, thereby reinforcing an
overall theme. Expanded and enhanced beach access would also not be provided. For these
reasons, this alternative was rejected from further consideration.
6.4 Analysis of the Increased Residential Use Alternative
6.4.1 Increased Residential Use Alternative Description and Setting
The Increased Residential Land Use Alternative assumes that the majority of the project site
would be developed with townhomes, at a density of 19 du/acre; refer to Figure 6-2. At this
density, an estimated 352 townhomes could be constructed. In addition, the Resort Hotel and
Hotel/Commercial uses would also be developed, similar to the proposed project. No Mixed-
Use or Live-Work/Mixed-Use uses would be developed, thereby minimizing commercial
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-11 August 2007
retail or tourism-oriented uses. This alternative would not result in improvements associated
with the State Beach, nor include enhancements to the major entryway into the City at
Carlsbad Boulevard and Batiquitos Lagoon.
6.4.2 Comparison of the Effects of the Increased Residential Use Alternative to the
Proposed Project
6.4.2.1 Air Quality
The Increased Residential Use Alternative would generate fewer vehicle trips than the
proposed project as the result of the elimination of the mixed-use commercial and Village
Hotel uses, and would therefore result in an incremental decrease in air quality impacts
resulting from vehicle emissions. Therefore, impacts to air quality under this alternative
would be reduced as compared to the proposed project.
6.4.2.2 Biological Resources
With this alternative, impacts on biological resources would be similar as compared to the
proposed project. The development footprint would remain largely the same, as the majority
of the site would be assumed to be impacted. In addition, grading required for the proposed
uses and project roadways would be roughly the same; therefore, potential biological impacts
to sensitive resources resulting from noise generated by heavy equipment during grading and
construction activities would be similar with this alternative. Other potential impacts, such as
night lighting and threats from domesticated pets, would also be similar. Therefore, with the
Increased Residential Use Alternative, impacts on biological resources would be similar as
compared to the proposed project
6.4.2.3 Cultural Resources
Potential impacts caused by disturbance to undiscovered cultural resources during grading or
construction activities would be similar to that of the proposed project. Mitigation in the form
of monitoring during grading activities would therefore be required. Therefore, potential
impacts to cultural resources would be similar as compared to the Increased Residential
Alternative as compared to the proposed project.
6.4.2.4 Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Similar to the proposed project, the existing residential and commercial uses would remain
onsite with this alternative. As such, future residents and visitors to the site would be exposed
to potentially hazardous conditions such as contaminated soils or chemicals utilized on the
site. As such, additional site assessment would be required under this alternative to determine
the extent of potential impacts due to the exposure of humans to such conditions. Therefore,
impacts related to hazards and hazardous conditions would be similar to the proposed project
under this alternative.
6.4.2.5 Noise
With this alternative, potential noise impacts would be reduced as compared to the proposed
project. By removing the mixed-use and Village Hotel uses, potential noise impacts from the
operation of electrical and mechanical equipment (i.e., ventilation and air conditioning units)
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Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-12 August 2007
would be reduced. As the majority of the site would be developed under this alternative,
noise impacts resulting from construction and operation of construction equipment would be
largely the same as that of the proposed project. However, as this alternative would place a
large number of residential units adjacent to Carlsbad Boulevard, additional analysis would
be required to determine potential noise impacts. Similar mitigation measures would be
required to demonstrate that noise levels are reduced to a less than significant level.
Therefore, noise impacts under this alternative would be similar to the proposed project.
6.4.2.6 Traffic and Circulation
The Increased Residential Use Alternative would generate fewer vehicle trips than the
proposed project, due to the proposed residential uses versus the mixed-use or resort-
commercial uses, resulting in a decrease in traffic as compared to the project. As the same
circulation system is proposed, roadway segments and intersections would likely operate at
an improved level of service under this alternative with the reduction in ADT generated.
Therefore, impacts to traffic would be reduced with this alternative.
6.4.2.7 Visual Aesthetics and Grading
Although impacts to visual aesthetics and grading are not considered to be significant with
the proposed project, the Increased Residential Use Alternative would increase such impacts
as compared to the proposed project. The construction of residential uses along the coastal
bluffs would be inconsistent with the goals of the Local Coastal Program. The Coastal
Commission prefers the construction of mixed-use and commercial uses along the coastline,
as such uses typically allow for better preservation of existing views across a site. In
addition, typical residential development involves the defining of individual lot boundaries
with fences or thick landscaping, such as shrubs, to obscure views into one’s yard. As a
result, views through residential areas are generally limited, as compared to a hotel site,
where there may be one large structure, combined with several smaller, independent support
structures, with intervening parking as well as public access to the space for views. This
pattern of development provides a more open visual environment, allowing views or line-of-
sight across the property to be less impacted or restricted as compared to a residential area.
Onsite development would be subject to the Scenic Corridor Guidelines, similar to the
proposed project. With this alternative, the potential for impacts to visual resources would be
increased as compared to the proposed project.
6.4.2.8 Agricultural Resources
As compared to the proposed project, impacts to agricultural resources would be less than
significant. Therefore, impacts to agricultural resources would be the same as compared to
the project.
6.4.2.9 Geology and Soils
Similar to the proposed project, no significant impacts relating to geologic resources would
occur under this alternative. Grading for the proposed uses would not result in substantial soil
erosion or the loss of topsoil, or increase exposure of residents or visitors to the risk of
landslides or earthquakes. As such, potential impacts from geological resources under this
alternative would be similar to that of the proposed project.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-13 August 2007
6.4.2.10 Hydrology and Water Quality
As discussed in Section 5.10, the proposed project would not result in a significant impact on
hydrology and water quality. Under this alternative, the area of impervious surfaces would be
similar to the proposed project. Required storm water facilities would be adjusted
accordingly and would be consistent with the requirements of the Zones 9 and 22 LFMPs.
Similar BMPs required for the proposed project would be required under this alternative to
ensure that impacts are less than significant, similar to the proposed project.
6.4.2.11 Land Use and Planning
This alternative would include a General Plan Amendment to change the existing General
Plan designation to an Area of Special Consideration, similar to the proposed project. This
alternative would conflict with the LCP goals of providing visitor serving commercial uses
within the coastal zone. Therefore, no impacts related to land use and planning would be
greater than the proposed project.
6.4.2.12 Public Utilities and Service Systems
As with the proposed project, this alternative would not result in significant impacts to
utilities or service systems. This alternative would implement public utilities consistent with
that anticipated in the LFMPs for Zones 9 and 22. While this alternative would result in an
increased demand for City administrative, library, parks, fire and school facilities, the project
would not in itself necessitate the construction or alteration of these facilities. Therefore,
impacts to public utilities and services under this alternative would increase slightly as
compared to the proposed project.
6.4.3 Rationale for Preference of Proposed Project over the Increased Residential Use
Alternative
This alternative was rejected because it fails to achieve the majority of the project objectives.
As the majority of the project site would be developed with residential uses under this
alternative, the objective of establishing a mixed-use district that encourages local and
tourist-oriented retail, commercial, recreational and residential uses or accommodating a mix
of local and tourist-serving commercial, medium-and high-density residential, mixed use,
live/work, and open space land use opportunities that are economically viable would not be
achieved. This alternative would also not provide expanded and enhanced beach access, or
provide site design guidelines that require street scenes and site plans to respect pedestrian
scale and express a cohesive and high-quality architectural theme. In addition, this alternative
would not establish the Southern Coastal Gateway to the City, as no improvements would be
made to signify such an entry point. As this alternative would not meet these and other
objectives, this alternative is was rejected.
6.5 Analysis of the Increased Residential Use / Open Space Alternative
6.5.1 Increased Residential Use / Open Space Alternative Description and Setting
The Increased Residential Use / Open Space Alternative would result in a large portion of the
property being developed with townhomes at a density of 19 du/acre; refer to Figure 6-3.
This would allow approximately 316 dwelling units. In addition, a Mixed-Use Center would
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-14 August 2007
be developed in the same location as with the proposed project, and would allow for a variety
of commercial retail uses, restaurants, and specialty stores to support the residential and hotel
and residential uses. The Hotel/Commercial use would be proposed in the northern portion of
the property, although at a smaller scale than compared to that of the proposed project. In
addition, this alternative proposes an open space/community park in the southern portion of
the property, rather than the Beachfront Resort. The park would be open to the public and
would offer opportunities for active and passive recreation, such as walking trails and picnic
tables. Development of the Ponto Area would not occur under the Vision Plan with this
alternative.
6.5.2 Comparison of the Effects of the Increased Residential Use / Open Space
Alternative to the Proposed Project
6.5.2.1 Air Quality
This alternative would reduce the number of vehicle trips generated to and from the property,
as travel/recreation commercial uses would be reduced and a greater number of residential
units would be constructed. As a result, air quality impacts would be incrementally reduced
as compared to the proposed project. In addition, pollutants generated by operation of
construction equipment would be roughly the same as compared to the proposed project, as
the development area is assumed to be similar.
6.5.2.2 Biological Resources
With this alternative, impacts to biological resources would be reduced as compared to the
proposed project. Approximately 12 acres would remain as open space/community park for
public use. As the majority of the area that would be used for the park is disturbed habitat or
non-native vegetation, impacts would be similar to that of the proposed project; however, an
area of Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub (disturbed) occurs in the southwestern portion of the site,
which could be avoided by design of the open space/park use. Impacts to biological resources
would therefore be reduced with this alternative as compared to the proposed project.
6.5.2.3 Cultural Resources
Potential impacts caused by disturbance to undiscovered cultural resources during grading or
construction activities would be similar to that of the proposed project, with the exception of
the area proposed as open space/community park. Grading for minor improvements for the
park may be required; however, the majority of the ground surface would not be disturbed,
thereby reducing potential impacts to undiscovered cultural resources. Mitigation in the form
of monitoring during grading activities would be required. Therefore, potential impacts to
cultural resources would be reduced as compared to the proposed project.
6.5.2.4 Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Similar to the proposed project, the existing residential and commercial uses would remain
onsite with this alternative. As such, future residents and visitors to the site would be exposed
to potentially hazardous conditions such as contaminated soils or chemicals utilized on the
site. As such, additional site assessment would be required under this alternative to determine
the extent of potential impacts due to the exposure of humans to such conditions. Therefore,
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-15 August 2007
impacts related to hazards and hazardous conditions would be similar to the proposed project
under this alternative.
6.5.2.5 Noise
Noise impacts would be reduced with this alternative, with the reduction in the proposed
resort-commercial and mixed-use land uses, by reducing mechanical equipment needs and
commercial and visitor traffic. In addition, the removal of the Beachfront Resort would also
reduce traffic noise and noise from daily operations. However, as residential units are
proposed adjacent to Carlsbad Boulevard, additional acoustical site analysis would be
required as mitigation to determine potential noise impacts on a project-specific basis.
Therefore, noise impacts would be reduced with this alternative as compared to the proposed
project.
6.5.2.6 Traffic and Circulation
This alternative would reduce the number of vehicle trips generated by reducing the intensity
of uses and by proposing a greater number of residential units, while reducing commercial
and tourism-related activities. The density of townhomes or single-family units would be
developed at a similar density as that under the proposed project; however, a larger area
would be reserved for such townhome uses under this alternative. As this alternative would
keep the onsite circulation system proposed with the project, and would contribute ADT
along similar offsite roadways, mitigation measures to reduce impacts would be similar to
that of the proposed project, but at a reduced scale, as this alternative would result in fewer
trips generated. Traffic impacts would therefore be reduced with this alternative as compared
to the project.
6.5.2.7 Visual Aesthetics and Grading
Similar to the proposed project, no significant impacts related to visual aesthetics or grading
would result from this alternative. Development would be consistent with City grading
standards, the Landscape Design Manual, zoning regulations, and the Scenic Corridor
Guidelines. The construction of residential uses along the coastal bluffs would be
inconsistent with the goals of the Local Coastal Program. The Coastal Commission prefers
the construction of mixed-use and commercial uses along to coastline, as such uses typically
allow for better preservation of existing views across a site. In addition, typical residential
development involves defining individual lot boundaries with fences or thick landscaping,
such as shrubs, to obscure views into one’s yard. As a result, views through residential areas
are generally limited, as compared to a hotel site, where there may be one large structure,
combined with several smaller, independent support structures, with intervening parking. The
southern portion of the site would not be developed with the Beachfront Hotel and would
instead remain as open space/community park. Impacts to landform alteration and visual
resources would therefore be similar with this alternative as compared to the proposed
project.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-16 August 2007
6.5.2.8 Agricultural Resources
Similar to the proposed project, impacts to agricultural resources would be less than
significant. Therefore, impacts to agricultural resources would be the same as compared to
the proposed project.
6.5.2.9 Geology and Soils
Similar to the proposed project, no significant impacts relating to geologic resources would
occur under this alternative. Grading for the proposed uses would not result in substantial soil
erosion or the loss of topsoil, or increase exposure of residents to the risk of landslides or
earthquakes. As such, potential impacts from geological resources under this alternative
would be similar to that of the proposed project.
6.5.2.10 Hydrology and Water Quality
As discussed in Section 5.10, the proposed project would not result in a significant impact on
hydrology and water quality. Improvement of the roadway for onsite circulation would
require limited grading as compared to the roadways and building pads proposed with the
project, thereby reducing the acreage of impervious surfaces. BMPs would be required with
this alternative with the onsite roadway. Impacts to hydrology and water quality would be
reduced with this alternative as compared to the proposed project.
6.5.2.11 Land Use and Planning
This alternative would include a General Plan Amendment to change the existing General
Plan designation to Area of Special Consideration, similar to the proposed project. This
alternative would conflict with the LCP goals of providing visitor-serving commercial uses in
the coastal zone. Therefore, impacts related to land use and planning would be greater than
the proposed project.
6.5.2.12 Utilities and Service Systems
Similar to the proposed project, this alternative would not result in a significant impact to
utilities or service systems; however, this alternative would result in an increase in demand
on public services and facilities, due to the increased residential uses as compared to the
proposed project. Therefore, this alternative would increase impacts to utilities and public
service systems as compared to the proposed project.
6.5.3 Rationale for Preference of Proposed Project over the Increased Residential Use/
Open Space Alternative
This alternative would reduce impacts to traffic, noise and air quality, as well as impacts to
biological resources as compared to the proposed project, due to the removal of the Resort
hotel use and reduction of the Mixed-Use area. In addition, this alternative would achieve the
project objectives of assuring that public facilities and services meet the requirements of the
Growth Management Plan and that the project conforms with the General Plan, Amended
Zone 9 and 22 Local Facilities Management Plans (LFMP), applicable City ordinances,
regulations and policies. As Carlsbad Boulevard would be re-aligned, expanded and
enhanced beach access would be provided. However, as a planthe Vision Plan would not be
developed to guide development within the project area, this alternative would not achieve
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-17 August 2007
the goals of establishing the Southern Coastal Gateway to the City or providing site design
guidelines that require street scenes and site plans to respect pedestrian scale and express a
cohesive and high-quality architectural theme. This alternative would also conflict with the
stated goals of the LCP to provide visitor-serving commercial uses in the coastal zone. In
addition, thethis alternative would not provide landscape architecture that celebrates the
historic past and horticultural heritage of the City, as no design guidelines would be
proposed. As this alternative would not meet these and other objectives, this alternative was
rejected.
6.6 Analysis of the Increased Townhomes / Single-Family Detached Alternative
6.6.1 Increased Townhomes / Single-Family Detached Alternative Description and
Setting
The Increased Townhomes / Single-Family Detached Alternative assumes that the project
site would be largely developed with townhomes and single-family development at a density
of 10 du/acre; refer to Figure 6-4. This would allow for approximately 172 dwelling units
within the northern portion of the site. In addition, the Hotel/Commercial uses at the northern
end of the property would be developed. A Mixed-Use Center would be developed in the
central portion of the site, just north of Avenida Encinas, similar to the proposed project, but
at a smaller scale. The Resort Hotel Use would be developed in the southern portion of the
site, also similar to the proposed project. This alternative assumes the re-alignment of
Carlsbad Boulevard with development of a linear park along the west side of the roadway.
Onsite road patterns would be the same as the proposed project. No improvements to
enhance the State Beach would be proposed with this alternative.
6.6.2 Comparison of the Effects of the Increased Townhomes / Single-Family
Detached Alternative to the Proposed Project
6.6.2.1 Air Quality
This alternative would reduce the number of vehicle trips generated to and from the property,
as a greater number of residential units would be constructed, and commercial and resort-
commercial uses would be reduced as compared to the proposed project. As a result, air
quality impacts would be incrementally reduced; however, mobile emissions would still
remain above the significance threshold level for criteria pollutants, although impacts would
be less than that of the proposed project. Pollutants generated during the operation of
construction equipment would be similar to that resulting from the proposed project, as the
development footprint would be similar with this alternative.
6.6.2.2 Biological Resources
With this alternative, the development footprint would be largely the same as the proposed
project, although the mixture of uses would differ. Similar mitigation measures would
therefore be required to reduce impacts to less than significant. Impacts to biological
resources would be similar with this alternative as compared to the proposed project.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-18 August 2007
6.6.2.3 Cultural Resources
This alternative would result in a similar impact to cultural resources as the proposed project.
The development footprint would be similar under this alternative, and grading activities
would represent the potential for disturbance to undiscovered cultural resources. Therefore,
the same resources would potentially be impacted with this alternative and similar mitigation
measures in the form of monitoring would be required to reduce impacts to less than
significant.
6.6.2.4 Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Implementation of this alternative would result in a similar impact related to hazards and
hazardous materials as with the proposed project. Development on the property would
expose people to potentially hazardous materials, such as contaminated soils, asbestos and/or
lead paint, and other hazardous chemicals, as identified during the initial site assessment.
Such materials would need to be properly disposed of and remediated as applicable before
development could occur on the site with this alternative. Impacts are similar under this
alternative compared to the proposed project. Implementation of mitigation measures similar
to that of the proposed project would be required.
6.6.2.5 Noise
Noise impacts would be reduced with this alternative, with the reduction in the proposed
resort-commercial and mixed-use land uses by reducing mechanical equipment needs and
commercial and visitor traffic. However, as residential units are proposed adjacent to
Carlsbad Boulevard, additional acoustical site analysis would be required as mitigation to
determine potential noise impacts on a project-specific basis. Therefore, noise impacts would
be reduced with this alternative as compared to the proposed project.
6.6.2.6 Traffic and Circulation
This alternative would reduce vehicle trips generated by reducing the intensity of uses and by
proposing a greater number of residential units, while reducing commercial and tourism-
related activities. The density of townhomes or single-family units would be developed at a
density of 10 du/acre rather than 19 du/acre, as compared to the proposed project. As this
alternative would keep the onsite circulation system proposed with the project, and would
contribute ADT along similar offsite roadways, mitigation measures to reduce impacts would
be similar to that of the proposed project, but at a reduced scale, as this alternative would
result in fewer trips generated. Traffic impacts would therefore be reduced with this
alternative as compared to the project.
6.6.2.7 Agricultural Resources
This alternative would result in a similar, non-significant impact to agricultural resources as
compared to the proposed project. The conversion of agricultural land affected by the LCP
Mello II would still require payment of fees with this alternative.
6.6.2.8 Geology and Soils
As with the proposed project, no significant impacts as the result of geologic conditions
onsite would occur with this alternative. Construction design measures to address any
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-19 August 2007
geologic concerns onsite, such as landslides or soil erosion would be applied on a project-
specific basis. Therefore, potential impacts relating to geologic resources would be similar as
compared to the proposed project.
6.6.2.9 Hydrology and Water Quality
Drainage requirements would be similar to that of the proposed project, and would include
relocation of the existing onsite storm drain. Best management practices would be
implemented to reduce potential water quality impacts to less than significant, similar to
those identified for the project. With implementation of BMPs, impacts on water quality
would be similar with this alternative as compared to the proposed project.
6.6.2.10 Land Use and Planning
This alternative assumes that a General Plan Amendment would be approved and that the
property would be developed under the General Plan designations that would permit a mix of
multi-family or single-family residential development. Existing zoning designations would
require changes to permit additional residential uses. As no significant impacts on land use
and planning were identified with the proposed project, land use and planning impacts would
be similar with this alternative as compared to the proposed project.
6.6.2.11 Utilities and Service Systems
As stated in Section 3.6, the proposed project would not result in a significant impact to
utilities or service systems; however, this alternative would have an increased demand on
public utilities and service systems as compared to the proposed project, as additional
residential units would be constructed that would require public water and sewer, as well as
public services, such as schools and parks. This alternative also proposes development of the
linear park for public recreational use, but park-in-lieu-of fees would be paid as applicable.
This alternative would result in an increase demand on school services, but development
would not cause a significant impact on such facilities or cause a demand for the construction
of new school facilities. Therefore, this alternative would reduce impacts to utilities and
public service systems as compared to the proposed project.
6.6.2.12 Visual Aesthetics and Grading
Similar to the proposed project, no significant impacts related to visual aesthetics or grading
would result from this alternative. Development would be consistent with City grading
standards, the Landscape Design Manual, zoning regulations, and the Scenic Corridor
Guidelines. The construction of residential uses along the coastal bluffs would be
inconsistent with the goals of the Local Coastal Program. The Coastal Commission prefers
the construction of mixed-use and commercial uses along to coastline, as such uses typically
allow for better preservation of existing views across a site. In addition, typical residential
development involves defining individual lot boundaries with fences or thick landscaping,
such as shrubs, to obscure views into one’s yard. As a result, views through residential areas
are generally limited, as compared to a hotel site, where there may be one large structure,
combined with several smaller, independent support structures, with intervening parking. As
the development footprint would be similar to that of the proposed project, required grading
for this alternative is assumed to be similar. Impacts to landform alteration and visual
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-20 August 2007
resources would therefore be similar with this alternative as compared to the proposed
project.
6.6.3 Rationale for Preference of Proposed Project over the Increased Townhomes /
Single-Family Detached Alternative
The Increased Townhomes / Single-Family Detached Alternative would reduce potential
significant impacts to traffic and circulation, as well as incrementally decrease air quality
impacts, due to a decrease in the number of trips generated. Noise impacts would also be
reduced, due to the reduction of commercial uses. The objectives of assuring that public
facilities and services meet the requirements of the Growth Management Plan and
conformance with the General Plan, Amended Zone 9 and 22 Local Facilities Management
Plans (LFMP), applicable City ordinances, regulations and policies, would be achieved. As
individual ownerships would be developed without an overall plan for guidance, this
alternative would not establish a mixed-use district that encourages local and tourist-oriented
retail, commercial, recreational and residential uses. This alternative would allow for the
establishment of a mixed-use district that encourages local and tourist-oriented retail,
commercial, and recreational land uses, but at a reduced scale as compared to the proposed
project. Improvements to Carlsbad Boulevard would provide additional parking, thereby
enhancing access to the State Beach.
This alternative does not meet the project objectives of establishing a Southern Coastal
Gateway to the City, or of accommodating a balanced and cohesive mix of local and tourist-
serving commercial, medium- and high-density residential, mixed use, live/work, and open
space land use opportunities. that are economically viable and support the implementation of
these goals. This alternative would conflict with the stated goals of the LCP to provide
visitor-serving commercial uses in the coastal zone. In addition, no cohesive architectural
theme would be achieved for development of the site, as the site would not be developed
under the Vision Plan and site guidelines would therefore not be proposed. Although this
alternative does reduce some adverse impacts associated with the proposed project, it does
not result in a substantial reduction in impacts that would make it preferable over another
project alternative. As this alternative would not meet these and other objectives, this
alternative was rejected.
6.7 Analysis of the Increased Townhomes / Visitor Use Alternative
6.7.1 Description and Setting
The Increased Townhomes / Visitor Use Alternative assumes that the project site would be
largely developed with a mixture of commercial retail and hotel uses, similar to the proposed
project, but with additional residential dwelling units provided; refer to Figure 6-5. In the
southern portion of the site, the Resort Hotel use would be developed, similar to the proposed
project. An increased number of townhomes would be developed at a density of 19 du/acre as
compared to the proposed project, with such uses replacing the Mixed-Use Center.
Approximately 281 dwelling units could be developed under this alternative. This alternative
would allow for a mixture of commercial uses including retail shops and restaurants. In
addition, the Hotel/Commercial use at the northern portion of the site would be developed at
a reduced scale, with construction of a neighborhood park at the northernmost portion of the
site to provide recreational opportunities and to buffer the hotel use from the adjacent
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-21 August 2007
residential neighborhoods. This alternative assumes the re-alignment of Carlsbad Boulevard
with development of a linear park along the west side of the roadway. Onsite road patterns
would be the same as the proposed project. No improvements to enhance the State Beach
would be proposed with this alternative.
6.7.2 Comparison of the Effects of the Increased Townhomes / Visitor Use Alternative
to the Proposed Project
6.7.2.1 Air Quality
This alternative would reduce the number of vehicle trips generated to and from the property,
as a greater number of residential units would be constructed, and commercial and resort-
commercial uses would be reduced as compared to the proposed project. As a result, air
quality impacts would be incrementally reduced; however, mobile emissions would still
remain above the significance threshold level for criteria pollutants, although impacts would
be less than that of the proposed project. Pollutants generated during the operation of
construction equipment would be similar to that compared to that resulting from the proposed
project, as the development footprint would be similar with this alternative.
6.7.2.2 Biological Resources
With this alternative, the development footprint would be largely the same as the proposed
project, although the mixture of uses would differ. Similar mitigation measures would
therefore be required to reduce impacts to less than significant. Impacts to biological
resources would therefore be similar with this alternative as compared to the proposed
project.
6.7.2.3 Cultural Resources
This alternative would result in a similar impact to cultural resources as the proposed project.
The development footprint and limits of grading would be similar under this alternative, and
grading activities would represent the potential for disturbance to undiscovered cultural
resources. Therefore, cultural resources not previously identified could potentially be
impacted with this alternative, and similar mitigation measures in the form of monitoring
would be required to reduce impacts to less than significant.
6.7.2.4 Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Implementation of this alternative would result in a similar impact related to hazards and
hazardous materials as with the proposed project. Hazardous materials identified onsite
during preparation of the Phase I ESA would require further analysis and determination of
potentially significant impacts to human health. Removal of such hazardous materials could
be required through implementation of mitigation measures similar to that of the proposed
project.
6.7.2.5 Noise
Noise impacts would be reduced with this alternative, as an increase in residential units
would occur, the Village Hotel would be replaced by residential uses, and the live-work
neighborhood would not be developed, thereby distancing residential uses from commercial
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-22 August 2007
retail uses. In addition, a reduction in noise impacts would also occur, as the need for
mechanical equipment and the number of vehicle trips generated would also be reduced.
However, townhomes would be constructed adjacent to Carlsbad Boulevard, thereby
potentially exposing onsite residents to noise impacts from traffic along the roadway.
Additional acoustical site analysis would be required as mitigation to determine potential
noise impacts on a project-specific basis. Therefore, noise impacts would be reduced with
this alternative as compared to the proposed project.
6.7.2.6 Traffic and Circulation
This alternative would result in a slight reduction in the number of vehicle trips generated per
day, as the result of a removal of the Village Hotel and Mixed-Use Center. In addition, the
Hotel/Commercial area would be reduced in size, to allow for provision of the neighborhood
park. Onsite circulation would be similar to that proposed with the project, and ADT
generated would result in impacts to similar offsite roadways. Mitigation measures to reduce
impacts would therefore be similar to that of the proposed project. Traffic impacts would
therefore be reduced with this alternative as compared to the project.
6.7.2.7 Agricultural Resources
This alternative would result in a similar, non-significant impact to agricultural resources as
compared to the proposed project. The conversion of agricultural land affected by the LCP
Mello II district would require payment of fees with this alternative to reduce potential
impacts.
6.7.2.8 Geology and Soils
No significant impacts as the result of geologic conditions onsite would occur with this
alternative. Development of the site would not increase the risk of exposure to any geologic
conditions onsite, such as landslides or soil erosion, and design measures would be
implemented on a project-specific basis. Therefore, potential impacts relating to geologic
resources would be similar as compared to the proposed project.
6.7.2.9 Hydrology and Water Quality
This alternative would result in similar drainage requirements as compared to the proposed
project, as it is assumed that the amount of impervious surfaces would be roughly the same.
Drainage improvements would be provided consistent with the LFMPs for Zones 9 and 22 as
applicable. The existing onsite storm drain would be relocated with this alternative. BMPs
similar to those proposed for the project would be implemented to reduce potential water
quality impacts to less than significant. With implementation of the BMPs, impacts on water
quality would be similar with this alternative as compared to the proposed project.
6.7.2.10 Land Use and Planning
Similar to the proposed project, this alternative would involve development of the site under
an approved GPA that would allow the property to be developed under a General Plan
designation of an Area of Special Consideration for commercial/hotel components of the
plan. The removal of the mixed-use component of the plan would eliminate uses that would
appeal to other city residents or visitors not living or staying within the Vision Plan area.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-23 August 2007
Removal of the mixed-use area would result in reduced coastal access because fewer services
for people from outside the Vision Plan area would be available. As with the proposed
project, land use and planning impacts would be less than significant. As no significant
impacts on land use and planning were identified with the proposed project, land use and
planning impacts would be similar with this alternative as compared to the proposed project.
6.7.2.11 Utilities and Service Systems
This alternative would result in an increased demand on public utilities and service systems
as compared to the proposed project, due to the increase in housing and permanent
population. Residents living in the proposed residential units would place a demand on public
sewer and water service, similar to conditions with the proposed project. However, as a
greater number of permanent residents would reside on the site, an increased demand for
facilities such as schools, fire protection, parks, libraries and City administration facilities
would be created. This increased demand would not adversely impact the ability of the City
to provide such services, as demonstration of consistency with the Zones 9 and 22 LFMPs for
adequate provision of these services would be required prior to development. This alternative
also proposes development of the linear park for public recreational use, as well as a small
neighborhood park to provide for additional parkland and recreational facilities. The
payment of school and park in-lieu-of fees would be required as applicable to reduce
potential impacts on public service systems. Overall, this alternative would increase impacts
to utilities and public service systems as compared to the proposed project.
6.7.2.12 Visual Aesthetics and Grading
Similar to the proposed project, no significant impacts related to visual aesthetics or grading
would result from this alternative. All development would occur consistent with City grading
standards, the Landscape Design Manual, zoning regulations for height and setbacks, and the
City’s Scenic Corridor Guidelines to reduce potential visual impacts and maintain visual
resources. As the development footprint is assumed to be similar with this alternative as
compared to that required for development of the proposed project, required grading for this
alternative is also assumed to be similar. Impacts to landform alteration and visual resources
would therefore be similar with this alternative as compared to the proposed project.
6.7.3 Rationale for Preference of Proposed Project over the Increased Townhomes /
Visitor Use Alternative
The Increased Townhomes / Visitor Use Alternative would reduce potential significant
impacts to traffic and circulation, as well as resultant noise and air quality impacts, as
compared to the proposed project. This alternative would meet the objectives of assuring that
the provision of public facilities and services would meet the requirements of the Growth
Management Plan, prior to development. In addition, conformance with the General Plan,
Amended Zone 9 and 22 Local Facilities Management Plans (LFMP), applicable City
ordinances, regulations and policies would also be achieved with this alternative.
Improvements to Carlsbad Boulevard would also allow for additional parking for the State
Beach, providing improved access.
However, as no overall plan would be provided to guide development within the area without
the Vision Plan, and individual ownerships would be developed as desired, a cohesive mix of
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-24 August 2007
local and tourist-serving commercial, medium- and high-density residential, mixed use,
live/work, and open space land use opportunities that are economically viable would not be
achieved. In addition, this alternative would not provide a cohesive architectural theme for
development of the site. , as the Vision Plan would not be implemented. Similarly,
requirements for landscape architecture that would celebrate the historic past and
horticultural heritage of the City would not be achievedrequired without the Vision Plan.
Although improvements would be made consistent with the Scenic Corridor Guidelines, this
alternative does not specifically meet the project objective of establishing a Southern Coastal
Gateway to the City. The eliminator of the mixed-use component of the plan would remove
uses that would appeal to other visitors and residents in the City of Carlsbad. The removal of
the mixed-use area would mean fewer services would be available for city residents or
visitors from outside the Vision Plan area. As this alternative would not meet these and other
objectives, this alternative was rejected.
6.8 Analysis of the Increased Recreational Amenities/Green Space Alternative
6.8.1 Description and Setting
The Increased Recreational Amenities/Green Space Alternative assumes that the project site
would be developed with the same mixture of uses as proposed with the Vision Plan;
however, this alternative would decrease the size of the Resort Hotel facilities at the southern
end of the Vision Plan area and provide an open area along the bluff that would be available
for public recreational use; refer to Figure 6-6. In addition, the area would provide an added
buffer between the hotel facilities and the Batiquitos Lagoon. The open area would
complement the multi-use trail envisioned in the Vision Plan, and would be located within
the setback of the development envelope for the Resort Hotel. The open area would be
maintained by the property owner.
It is envisioned that the open area would be bermed to provide varied topography, and
landscaped with trees for shade and grassy areas for passive or active recreation. Amenities
such as benches or picnic tables for meeting or relaxing could be provided within the space
and may offer views to the lagoon and the Pacific Ocean. Other amenities such as an open
grassy area for weddings, or a gazebo for ceremonies or viewing opportunities, could also be
provided. Signage could also be installed within the open area to identify vegetation or
flower types, or perhaps animal or avian species that would typically occupy the lagoon, to
provide an educational opportunity.
With the above-described exceptions, future development of the Ponto Area would occur as
envisioned by the Vision Plan. This alternative assumes the re-alignment of Carlsbad
Boulevard with development of a linear park along the west side of the roadway, and
construction of a pedestrian underpass to the State Beach. Onsite road patterns would be the
same as the proposed project. In addition, improvements to enhance Carlsbad Boulevard as
the southern gateway into the City are also envisioned with this alternative.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-25 August 2007
6.8.2 Comparison of the Effects of the Increased Recreational Amenities/Green Space
Alternative to the Proposed Project
6.8.2.1 Air Quality
This alternative would slightly reduce the number of vehicle trips generated to and from the
property as compared to the proposed project, as the resort use would be reduced in square
footage. As a result, air quality impacts would be incrementally reduced; however, mobile
emissions would still remain above the significance threshold level for criteria pollutants,
although impacts would be less than that of the proposed project. Pollutants generated during
the operation of construction equipment would be similar to that resulting from the proposed
project, as the development footprint would be similar with this alternative.
6.8.2.2 Biological Resources
With this alternative, the development footprint would be largely the same as that resulting
with the proposed project and therefore, similar mitigation measures would be required to
reduce potential impacts to less than significant. Impacts to biological resources would
therefore be similar with this alternative as compared to the proposed project.
6.8.2.3 Cultural Resources
This alternative would result in similar impacts to cultural resources as the proposed project.
The development footprint would be similar under this alternative, and grading activities
would represent the potential for disturbance to undiscovered cultural resources. Therefore,
the same resources would potentially be impacted with this alternative and similar mitigation
measures in the form of monitoring would be required to reduce impacts to less than
significant.
6.8.2.4 Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Implementation of the increased Recreational Amenities/Green Space Alternative would
result in similar impacts relative to hazards and hazardous materials as compared with the
proposed project. Hazardous materials identified onsite during preparation of the Phase I
ESA would require further analysis and determination of potentially significant impacts to
human health upon future development of individual ownerships within the Ponto Area. The
removal of hazardous materials would be required, as applicable, through implementation of
mitigation measures, similar to the proposed project to reduce potential impacts to less than
significant.
6.8.2.5 Noise
Potential noise impacts would be slightly reduced with this alternative, as the area proposed
for the Resort Hotel would be reduced in size to allow for provision of the open area. In
addition, the number of vehicle trips generated would also be incrementally reduced,
resulting in a decrease in noise generated by cars traveling to and from the site. Additional
acoustical site analysis would be required as mitigation to determine potential noise impacts
on a project-specific basis for future development within the Ponto Area. Overall, noise
impacts would be reduced to less than significant with this alternative, as compared to the
proposed project.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-26 August 2007
6.8.2.6 Traffic and Circulation
As stated above, this alternative would result in a slight reduction in the number of vehicle
trips generated per day, due to the reduction of the Resort Hotel facilities to allow for
provision of the open area. Onsite circulation would be similar to that proposed with the
project, and ADT generated would result in impacts to similar offsite roadways. Mitigation
measures to reduce potential traffic impacts would therefore be similar to that of the
proposed project.
6.8.2.7 Agricultural Resources
This alternative would result in a similar, non-significant impact to agricultural resources as
compared to the proposed project. The conversion of agricultural land affected by the LCP
Mello II district would require payment of fees with this alternative to reduce potential
impacts to less than significant.
6.8.2.8 Geology and Soils
Development of the Ponto Area would not increase the risk of exposure to any geologic
conditions onsite, such as landslides or soil erosion. Design measures would be implemented
on a project-specific basis. Therefore, potential impacts relative to geologic resources would
be similar and non-significant, as compared to the proposed project.
6.8.2.9 Hydrology and Water Quality
This alternative would result in similar drainage requirements as compared to the proposed
project, as it is assumed that the amount of impervious surfaces would be roughly the same.
Drainage improvements would be provided consistent with the LFMPs for Zones 9 and 22 as
applicable. BMPs similar to those proposed for the project would be implemented on a
project-by-project basis to reduce potential water quality impacts to less than significant.
6.8.2.10 Land Use and Planning
Similar to the proposed project, this alternative would involve development of the Ponto
Area under an approved GPA that would allow the property to be developed under a General
Plan designation of an Area of Special Consideration All future development would be
consistent with the General Plan designation and as envisioned by the Vision Plan. No
significant impacts relative to land use and planning were identified with the proposed
project. Potential land use and planning impacts would be similar with this alternative as
compared to the proposed project.
6.8.2.11 Utilities and Service Systems
Future development within the Ponto Area would be required to demonstrate consistency
with the Zones 9 and 22 LFMPs for adequate provision of public services such as police and
fire protection. This alternative proposes development of an open area that would provide
recreational opportunities for the public. Landowners within the Ponto Area would be
required to pay school and park in-lieu fees as applicable to reduce potential impacts on
public service systems and facilities. As such, this alternative would result in similar impacts
on utilities and public service systems, as compared to the proposed project.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-27 August 2007
6.8.2.12 Visual Aesthetics and Grading
Similar to the proposed project, no significant impacts relative to visual aesthetics or grading
would result from the Recreational Amenities/Green Space Alternative. All future
development within the Ponto Area would be consistent with City grading standards, the
City’s Landscape Design Manual, zoning regulations for building height and setbacks, and
the City’s Scenic Corridor Guidelines to reduce potential visual impacts and maintain visual
resources. The overall development footprint would also be similar with this alternative as
compared to the proposed project, with the exception of a reduction in the Resort Hotel
facilities. In addition, this alternative would locate the Resort Hotel facilities at a greater
distance from the bluff and would provide a landscaped open area that would be visible from
offsite public vantage points. Grading for this alternative is assumed to be similar to that
required for the proposed project, as development would be largely the same. Potential
impacts to landform alteration and visual resources would therefore be similar with the
Recreational Amenities/Green Space Alternative as compared to the proposed project.
6.8.3 Rationale for Preference of Proposed Project over the Increased Recreational
Amenities/Green Space Alternative
As the Increased Recreational Amenities/Green Space Alternative is similar to development
envisioned in the Vision Plan, it would meet both the project goals as well as the majority of
goals established in the South Carlsbad Coastal Redevelopment Area Redevelopment Plan.
This alternative would incrementally reduce potentially significant impacts to traffic and
circulation, as well as resultant noise and air quality impacts, as compared to the proposed
project. In addition, future development of the Ponto Area would be consistent with
requirements of the General Plan, Amended Zone 9 and 22 Local Facilities Management
Plans (LFMP), and applicable City ordinances, regulations and policies, and therefore, no
conflicts relative to land use and planning would occur.
This alternative would also allow for improvements to Carlsbad Boulevard and establishment
of a Southern Coastal Gateway to the City, as well as enhanced access to Carlsbad State
Beach, similar to the proposed project. This alternative would also establish a mixed-use
district that encourages local and tourist-oriented retail, commercial, recreational and
residential uses, and would provide a cohesive architectural theme for future development of
the Ponto Area. Similar to the proposed project, this alternative would meet the objectives of
assuring that the provision of public facilities and services would meet the requirements of
the Growth Management Plan, prior to development. Requirements for landscape
architecture that would celebrate the historic past and horticultural heritage of the City would
also be achieved.
As discussed above, the Increased Recreational Amenities/Green Space Alternative would
meet the project goals, as well as the goals of the SCCRA Redevelopment Plan. For these
reasons, the Increased Recreational Amenities/Green Space Alternative was not rejected
from further consideration.
6.86.9 Carlsbad Boulevard Re-Alignment Alternatives
The Vision Plan includes four alternatives for the realignment of Carlsbad Boulevard; refer
to Figures 6-1A and 6-1B. The alignments were largely evaluated for potential effects
relative to impacts on biological resources, visual resources, parking, traffic signal operations
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-28 August 2007
and bridge requirements; refer to Table 6-2. An analysis was performed to determine the
potential benefits of moving the existing northbound/southbound Carlsbad Boulevard lanes
either to the west or to the east of their current location.
The re-alignment of Carlsbad Boulevard represents the opportunity to achieve several goals
of the Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan and the South Carlsbad Coastal Redevelopment
Area Redevelopment Plan. These goals were considered in the evaluation of the following
alternatives to determine the potential benefits and adverse impacts of each. The goals are as
follows:
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan
Provide expanded and enhanced beach access;
Establish the Southern Coastal Gateway to the City;
Require landscape architecture that celebrates the historic past and horticultural
heritage of the City; and,
Assure that public facilities and services meet the requirements of the Growth
Management Plan.
South Carlsbad Coastal Redevelopment Area Redevelopment Plan (July 2000)
Develop new beach and coastal recreational opportunities;
Provide a funding source for the potential re-alignment of Carlsbad Boulevard that
will yield excess property that could facilitate expansion of the Carlsbad State Beach
campgrounds and other recreational facilities, and/or development of cultural
facilities or other public facilities; and,
Increase parking and open space amenities.
Alternative #1
Alternative #1 envisions shifting the southbound lanes of Carlsbad Boulevard between
existing Ponto Road and Avenida Encinas to the east, thereby providing additional space on
the west side of the roadway for both on-street parking and an enhanced multi-purpose trail.
No realignment or improvements would occur north of Ponto Road. In relocating the
roadway, Alternative #1 would create approximately 0.8 acre along the west side of Carlsbad
Boulevard, which could be utilized as a linear public park; refer to Figure 6-1A.
This alternative is considered the Environmentally Superior Alternative with regards to the
re-alignment alternatives for Carlsbad Boulevard, as it would result in the least impact to
biological resources due to roadway construction. Approximately 3.0 acres of Disturbed
Diegan coastal sage scrub would be impacted in the median between Ponto Drive and
Avenida Encinas with this alternative. However, this alternative would retain the existing
cypress trees in the median to the south of Avenida Encinas, thereby maintaining a visual
natural resource along the roadway.
This alternative would provide 61 diagonal parking spaces and 48 parallel parking spaces
along Carlsbad Boulevard for visitors to the State Beach. Traffic improvements would
require a complex signal operation at Avenida Encinas, due to the width of the required
median (longer time to make turning movements), but similar to the existing condition. This
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-29 August 2007
alternative would also retain the existing northbound bridge, but would require construction
of a new southbound bridge to implement the grade-separated pedestrian underpass under the
roadway.
Potential impacts for this alignment are approximately equal to the proposed project, with the
exception of reduced impacts to Disturbed Diegan coastal sage scrub. This alternative would
have the same impacts as the proposed project for the other issue areas and would include the
same mitigation measures.
This alternative would achieve the Vision Plan’s objectives of providing expanded and
enhanced beach access and would enable the establishment of a Southern Coastal Gateway to
the City. In addition, landscape architecture that celebrates the historic past and horticultural
heritage of the City could be applied to further enhance the roadway following re-alignment.
With the additional available land created by re-aligning the roadway, this alternative would
address the provision of public parks facilities through creation of a linear park for public use
and recreation. This alternative would also achieve the goal of the SCCRA Redevelopment
Plan to develop new beach and coastal recreational opportunities, and would result in the
opportunity for potential expansion of the Carlsbad State Beach campgrounds and other
recreational facilities, or development of cultural facilities or other public facilities. Lastly,
this alternative would provide additional parking and open space amenities. Therefore, this
alternative was not rejected from consideration.
Alternative #2
Alternative #2 is the alignment of Carlsbad Boulevard analyzed as part of the project in the
EIR with respect for potential environmental impacts; refer to Figure 3-5. , which reflects the
same alignment as Alternative #2. Similar to Alternative #1, Alternative #2 envisions shifting
the southbound lanes of Carlsbad Boulevard between existing Ponto Road and Avenida
Encinas to the east, thereby providing space on the west side for both on-street parking and
an enhanced multi-purpose trail. No realignment or improvements would occur north of
Ponto Road. This alternative would create approximately 2.0 acres on the west side of
Carlsbad Boulevard north of Avenida Encinas and 1.8 acres on the west side of Carlsbad
Boulevard, south of Avenida Encinas. This available land could then be used for a linear
public park or for expansion of the South Carlsbad State Beach Campground; refer to Figure
6-1A.
The enhanced Carlsbad Boulevard would accommodate two traffic lanes in each direction,
dedicated left turn lanes, Class II bike lanes on both sides, and a landscaped center median.
By moving the alignment eastward, land on the west side of Carlsbad Boulevard would be
available for the location of community amenities such as a pedestrian underpass under the
Boulevard, additional parking spaces for beach parking, a multi-use trail, and opportunities
for beautification of the median. This alignment would allow for a five- to ten-foot wide
linear park pathway or sidewalk along each side of the roadway, with parking provided along
one side of the road. An eight-foot wide bike lane could also be constructed on both sides of
the roadway, with two 12-foot wide travel lanes in either direction, separated by an 18-foot
wide landscaped median; refer to Figure 3-7.
In addition, the repositioning of the roadway would provide potential opportunities for the
State Parks campground to expand onto land vacated by the re-alignment. The re-alignment
of the southbound lanes of Carlsbad Boulevard to the east would align with improvements to
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-30 August 2007
the roadway recently completed as part of the Hanover Beach Colony development to the
north.
With the re-alignment, the Vision Plan envisions a new access point into the Beachfront
Village from Carlsbad Boulevard, approximately midway between Ponto Drive and Avenida
Encinas. The intersection would be signalized, and a dedicated left-turn lane along Carlsbad
Boulevard southbound lanes would be constructed. This alternative would provide 61
diagonal parking spaces and 48 parallel parking spaces for beachgoers located along the
southbound lanes of Carlsbad Boulevard between Ponto Road and Avenida Encinas. A less
complex signal operation would be required at Avenida Encinas to improve traffic flow as
compared to Alternative #1, due to a standardized intersection (i.e., no wide median). This
alternative would also retain the existing northbound bridge, although a new southbound
bridge would be required to accommodate lane relocation and to implement the grade-
separated pedestrian underpass to the west.
Approximately 3.7 acres of Disturbed Diegan coastal sage scrub would be affected in the
median between Ponto Drive and Avenida Encinas. This alternative would potentially disturb
approximately 0.6 acre of Southern Coastal Salt Marsh in the median immediately north of
the Los Batiquitos Lagoon bridges. In addition, the removal of the existing cypress trees in
the median south of Avenida Encinas would be required.
This alternative would achieve the Vision Plan’s objectives of providing expanded and
enhanced beach access and would enable the establishment of a Southern Coastal Gateway to
the City. In addition, landscape architecture that celebrates the historic past and horticultural
heritage of the City could be applied to further enhance the roadway following re-alignment.
With the additional available land created by re-aligning the roadway, this alternative would
address the provision of public parks facilities through creation of a linear park for public use
and recreation. This alternative would also achieve the goal of the SCCRA Redevelopment
Plan to develop new beach and coastal recreational opportunities, and would result in the
opportunity for potential expansion of the Carlsbad State Beach campgrounds and other
recreational facilities, or development of cultural facilities or other public facilities. Lastly,
this alternative would provide additional parking and open space amenities.
This alternative alignment for Carlsbad Boulevard would allow the project to meet objectives
and goals established by the Ponto Vision Plan and SCCRA Redevelopment Plan. Therefore,
this alternative was not rejected from consideration.
Alternative #3
Alternative #3 would relocate the southbound lanes of Carlsbad Boulevard to the east,
freeing approximately 0.8 acre on the west side of Carlsbad Boulevard for a future public
linear park. No realignment or improvements would occur north of Ponto Road. In addition,
re-alignment of the northbound lanes to the west would create approximately 1.2 acres along
the east side of Carlsbad Boulevard, north of Avenida Encinas, and 2.2 acres on the east side
of Carlsbad Boulevard, south of Avenida Encinas. This acreage would be available for
additional development or community amenities; refer to Figure 6-1A.
Approximately 3.7 acres of Disturbed Diegan coastal sage scrub in the median between
Ponto Drive and Avenida Encinas would be impacted by Alternative #3. Potential
disturbance to approximately 0.6 acre of Southern Coastal Salt Marsh within the median
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-31 August 2007
immediately north of the Los Batiquitos Lagoon bridges would also occur with this roadway
re-alignment. Similar to Alternative #1, this alternative would require the removal of cypress
trees in the median south of Avenida Encinas.
Similar to the other alternatives, an additional 61 diagonal parking spaces and 48 parallel
parking spaces would be created with relocation of the Carlsbad Boulevard. A less complex
signal operation at Avenida Encinas, as compared to Alternative #1, would be required as a
standardized intersection (i.e., no wide median) would be constructed.
This alternative would achieve the Vision Plan’s objectives of providing expanded and
enhanced beach access and would enable the establishment of a Southern Coastal Gateway to
the City. In addition, landscape architecture that celebrates the historic past and horticultural
heritage of the City could be applied to further enhance the roadway following re-alignment.
With the additional available land created by re-aligning the roadway, this alternative would
address the provision of public parks facilities through creation of a linear park for public use
and recreation. This alternative would also achieve the goal of the SCCRA Redevelopment
Plan to develop new beach and coastal recreational opportunities, and would result in the
opportunity for potential expansion of the Carlsbad State Beach campgrounds and other
recreational facilities, or development of cultural facilities or other public facilities. Lastly,
this alternative would provide additional parking and open space amenities.
This alternative alignment for Carlsbad Boulevard would allow the project to meet objectives
and goals established by the Ponto Vision Plan and SCCRA Redevelopment Plan. Therefore,
this alternative was not rejected from consideration.
Alternative # 4
With Alternative #4, the northbound and southbound lanes of Carlsbad Boulevard between
(proposed) Beach Way and Ponto Road would be re-aligned to the east to provide area for a
linear public park to the west of the roadway; refer to Figure 6-1B. The existing lane
configuration would not be changed with the roadway re-alignment (no additional lanes
would be proposed). The re-alignment of Carlsbad Boulevard with Alternative #4 would be
designed to connect with the roadway as recently improved with the Hanover Beach Colony
development to the north.
To the south of Beach Way, Alternative #4 would re-align Carlsbad Boulevard to the east,
consistent with the re-alignment proposed with Carlsbad Boulevard Re-alignment Alternative
#1 (see description above). As such, to the south of Beach Way, Alternative #4 would result
in the same impacts (and benefits), as those identified for Alternative #1, and are therefore
not re-analyzed with this Alternative; refer to Table 6-2. Mitigation measures for Alternative
#4 would also be the same as those required for Alternative #1 for the portion of the Carlsbad
Boulevard to the south of Beach Way.
Overall, Alternative #4 would provide 61 parking spaces (60 degrees diagonal) and 48
parallel parking spaces for visitors to the State Beach. No existing parking would be removed
with the proposed re-alignment.
As the onsite area through which Carlsbad Boulevard would be re-aligned to the north of
Beach Way is currently developed and supports the existing frontage roadway, sensitive
resources were not identified within this area. The roadway would be re-aligned wherein the
northbound lanes would generally follow the alignment of the existing frontage road, and
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-32 August 2007
therefore, construction would occur in an area that is presently disturbed. Therefore, no
additional impacts to sensitive resources within this onsite area would result with this
alternative. As with Alternative #1, the existing cypress trees within the median would be
preserved. No additional significant impacts to other resources within the median were
identified with this alternative; refer to Table 6-1. Therefore, potential impacts for this
alignment would be approximately the same as the proposed project, and the same mitigation
measures would be required.
This alternative would achieve the goal of providing expanded and enhanced beach access by
freeing approximately 0.5 acre on the west side of Carlsbad Boulevard for use as a future
public linear park, combined with the 0.8 acre created with Alternative #1. This alternative
would also achieve the goals to integrate landscape architecture that would reinforce the
historic past and horticultural heritage of the City, and would increase open space and
parking amenities. In addition, Alternative #4 would allow for establishment of a Southern
Coastal Gateway to the City.
As such, this alternative for the re-alignment of Carlsbad Boulevard would meet the majority
of goals established for the Ponto Vision Plan and the SCCRA Redevelopment Plan.
Therefore, this alternative was not rejected from consideration.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
FinalEIR 6-33 August 2007
Table 6-1
Comparison of Project Alternatives
ALTERNATIVE DESCRIPTION
Carlsbad Re-alignment
Impact
Category
No
Development
No
Project
Increased
Residential
Use
Increased
Residential
Use / Open
Space
Increased
Townhomes /
Single-
Family
Detached
Increased
Townhomes /
Visitor Use
Increased
Recreational
Amenities /
Green Space
Alternative
1
Alternative
3
Alternative
4
Air Quality Lesser Greater Lesser Similar Similar Similar Lesser Similar Similar Similar
Biological
Resources Lesser Similar Similar Lesser Similar Similar Similar Lesser Greater Similar
Cultural
Resources Lesser Similar Similar Lesser Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar
Hazards Lesser Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar
Noise Lesser Greater Similar Lesser Lesser Lesser Similar Similar Similar Similar
Traffic Lesser Greater Lesser Lesser Lesser Lesser Lesser Similar Similar Similar
Visual Lesser Greater Greater Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar
Agricultural Lesser Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar
Geology and
Soils Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar
Hydrology/
Water
Quality
Greater Similar Similar Lesser Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar
Land Use Lesser Similar Greater Greater Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar
Public
Utilities Lesser Greater Greater Greater Lesser Greater Similar Similar Similar Similar
*Alternative 2 not included because it is analyzed with the proposed project.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-34 August 2007
Table 6-2
Comparison of Carlsbad Boulevard Re-Alignment Alternatives
FACTOR ALTERNATIVE 1 ALTERNATIVE 2 ALTERNATIVE 3 ALTERNATIVE 4
Additional
Vacated
Acreage
Available for
Other Uses
Creates 0.8 acres on
west side of
Carlsbad Boulevard,
available for use as a
public linear park.
Creates 2.0 acres on
west side of
Carlsbad Boulevard
north of Avenida
Encinas and 1.8
acres on west side
of Carlsbad
Boulevard south of
Avenida Encinas,
available for use as
a public linear park
or potential
expanded use for the
South Carlsbad
State Beach
Campground.
Creates 0.8 acres on
west side of Carlsbad
Boulevard, available
to be used as a public
linear park.
Creates 1.2 acres on
east side of Carlsbad
Boulevard, north of
Avenida Encinas and
2.2 acres on east side
of Carlsbad
Boulevard, south of
Avenida Encinas,
available for
additional
development or
community
amenities.
Creates 0.5 acres on
west side of
Carlsbad Boulevard,
available for use as a
public linear park.
South of Beach
Way:
Creates 0.8 acres on
west side of
Carlsbad Boulevard,
available for use as a
public linear park.
Effect on
Vegetative
Communities
Approximately 3.0
acres of Disturbed
Diegan coastal sage
scrub to be affected
in median between
Ponto Drive and
Avenida Encinas.
Retains cypress trees
in median south of
Avenida Encinas.
Approximately 3.7
acres of Disturbed
Diegan coastal sage
scrub to be affected
in median between
Ponto Drive and
Avenida Encinas.
Potential
disturbance to
approximately 0.6
acres of Southern
Coastal Salt Marsh
in median
immediately north
of the Los
Batiquitos Lagoon
bridges.
Removal of cypress
trees in median
south of Avenida
Encinas.
Approximately 3.7
acres of Disturbed
Diegan coastal sage
scrub to be affected
in median between
Ponto Drive and
Avenida Encinas.
Potential disturbance
to approximately 0.6
acres of Southern
Coastal Salt Marsh in
median immediately
north of the Los
Batiquitos Lagoon
bridges.
Removal of cypress
trees in median south
of Avenida Encinas.
Approximately
3.73.0 acres of
Disturbed Diegan
coastal sage scrub to
be affected in
median between
Ponto Drive and
Avenida Encinas.
Retains cypress trees
in median south of
Avenida Encinas.
Parking Provides 61 parking
spaces (60 degree
diagonal) and 48
parallel parking
spaces.
Provides 61 parking
spaces (60 degree
diagonal) and 48
parallel parking
spaces.
Provides 61 parking
spaces (60 degree
diagonal) and 48
parallel parking
spaces.
Provides 61 parking
spaces (60 degree
diagonal) and 48
parallel parking
spaces.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Table 6-2 continued
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-35 August 2007
FACTOR ALTERNATIVE 1 ALTERNATIVE 2 ALTERNATIVE 3 ALTERNATIVE 4
Traffic Signal
Operations
More complex signal
operation at Avenida
Encinas due to width
of median (longer
time to make turning
movements) but
similar to existing
condition.
Less complex signal
operation at
Avenida Encinas,
due to standardized
intersection (i.e., no
wide median).
Less complex signal
operation at Avenida
Encinas, due to
standardized
intersection (i.e., no
wide median).
More complex signal
operation at Avenida
Encinas due to width
of median (longer
time to make turning
movements) but
similar to existing
condition.Less
complex signal
operation at Avenida
Encinas, due to
standardized
intersection (i.e., no
wide median).
Vehicular
Bridges
Retains existing
northbound bridge;
requires new
southbound bridge to
implement the
grade-separated
pedestrian underpass
to the west.
Retains existing
northbound bridge;
requires new
southbound bridge
to accommodate
lanes re-location
and to implement
the grade-separated
pedestrian
underpass to the
west.
Requires two new
bridges – one
northbound and one
southbound.
Retains existing
northbound bridge;
requires new
southbound bridge to
accommodate lanes
re-location and to
implement the
grade-separated
pedestrian underpass
to the west.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-36 August 2007
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-37 August 2007
Figure 6-1A
Carlsbad Boulevard Re-alignment Alternatives
;
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I
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CARLSBAD RE-ALIGNMENT ALTERNATIVE 1
CARLSBAD RE-ALIGNMENT ALTERNATIVE 2
CARLSBAD RE-ALIGNMENT ALTERNATIVE J
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Carlsbad Boulevard Realignment Alternatives
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR
Figure 6-lA
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-39 August 2007
Figure 6-1B
Carlsbad Boulevard Alternatives
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
CARLSBAD REALIGNMENT -ALTERNATIVE 4 (NORTH PORTION)
CARLSBAD REALIGNMENT -ALTERNATIVE 4 (SOUTH PORTION)
=
-
CARLSBAD REALIGNMENT -ALTERNATIVE 4
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CONSULTING
251019Sl/\951t16l at
E.nworwnentll lmp«;t
Carlsbad Boulevard Realignment Alternatives
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR
Figure 6-18
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-41 August 2007
Figure 6-2
Increased Residential Use Alternative
(
San Diego Northern-Railroad ---------·---------------------------·····--··-··-··-··~·~;;,-,··--···--···--···-·~
______ .... -·
If:'.~ 8
CONSULTING Not to Scale
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TOWNHOMES
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------·-..... __ ·························~:.~--=-,~-_,,........__-_ ___,_
Pacific Ocean
Increased Residential Use Alternative
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR
Figure 6-2
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-43 August 2007
Figure 6-3
Increased Residential Use / Open Space Alternative
-------··
San Diego Northern Railroad -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
•H••• ... ••w ••w --w •--lliiiii••~------•-----------•• -------~
----·------------------------
TOWNHOMES
19 DU/AC
----------------------------------------· --
Pacific Ocean
-----------------------.......... .
IGI 8 Increased Residential Use / Open Space Alternative
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR CONSULTING Notto Scale
2Sl01951/19Slu62.•
E.nwonrntl'Qltnoa(t
batlqultos lilgoon
··'
Figure 6-3
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-45 August 2007
Figure 6-4
Increased Townhomes / Single-Family Detached Alternative
------------
I":'.~ 8
cc NSU LTIN 13 Not to Scale
2Sl01~1/19Slu62.• E.nwof,mt,ulmo,c.1
San Diego Northern Railroad---· --------------------------······---------
TOWNHOMES /
Single family
detached
----------------------------------. -----------------------------···--.. _______ . ---. --------------
Pacific Ocean
_____ -.-.?.·: .. ::-__:::::-:.~,.-;-•.••.• ~ •. -•• .::::
Increased Townhomes/Single-Family Detached Alternative
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR
Figure 6-4
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-47 August 2007
Figure 6-5
Increased Townhomes / Visitor Use Alternative
TOWNHOMES
19 DU/AC
---";_----~--:-.-.:::::::,.~-----+----= --------------------------------· --· --------------------------------------------------------------
lftl 8
C □NBULTINl3 Not to Scale
2Sl0lttl/lflh.,.fi2.•
Ctwlfortntrrtalmo,tel
Pacific Ocean
Increased Townhomes / Visitor Use Alternative
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR
Figure 6-5
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 6-49 August 2007
Figure 6-56
Increased Recreational Amenities / Green Space Alternative
Village Hotel Townhouse Neighborhood Beachfront Resort Recreational/ Green Space
=:,
... ---·•-=="···..,'
--
Garden Hotel *
* Character Areas in Italics
1,.~ 8
CCNSU LTI N 13 Not to Scale
25101951/19Slu06!> a C.nwUl'Wfttntaln,pac:t
Live I Work Neighborhood
Increased Recreational Amenities / Green Space Alternative
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR
IATJO0ITOC Li\(;OO11
------}
i '
-r---lf it_t
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Figure 6-6
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-1 August 2007
7.0 ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
7.1 Cumulative Impacts
Sections 15130 and 15065(c) of the CEQA Guidelines require the discussion of cumulative
impacts when they are significant. The EIR is required to identify and discuss cumulative
impacts that may result from the proposed project when considered with other closely related
projects and reasonably foreseeable future projects.
The CEQA Guidelines define cumulative effects as “two or more individual effects that,
when considered together are considerable, or which compound or increase other
environmental impacts.” The Guidelines further state that the individual effects can be the
various changes related to a single project or the change involved in a number of other
closely related past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future projects (CEQA Guidelines
Section 15355). The Guidelines allow the use of two alternative methods to determine the
scope of projects for the cumulative impact analysis:
List Method – A list of past, present, and probable future projects producing related or
cumulative impacts, including, if necessary, those projects outside the control of the lead
agency.
General Plan Projection Method – A summary of projections contained in an adopted
general plan or related planning document, or in a prior environmental document that has
been adopted or certified, which described or evaluated regional or area-wide conditions
contributing to the cumulative impact (CEQA Guidelines Section 15130).
For purposes of this EIR, the List Method has been used; refer to Table 7-1. Existing and
reasonably anticipated projects have been identified and are discussed in greater detail in
terms of their potential to contribute to significant cumulative impacts, as part of the
following subject-based analysis.
7.1.1 Specific Cumulative Projects
The area surrounding the Ponto site is largely built-out, limiting the number of proposed
projects that would contribute to cumulative project impacts, due to proximity to the project
development area. Five individual projects were identified and considered for the cumulative
impact analysis and are in varied stages of planning and development. Information regarding
these projects was collected with assistance from the City and from active applications filed
with the City Planning Department. Specific projects encompassed within this cumulative
analysis are shown in Figure 7-1 and listed in Table 7-1.
Hotel Project - City of Encinitas (99-001; 04-268; 93-172)
The hotel project involves the consolidation of four existing lots into one parcel of
approximately 4.3 acres. The project site is located directly to the south of the Ponto
Beachfront Village site, across Batiquitos Lagoon, in the City of Encinitas. The project
requires a major use permit (MUP) to allow for development of a 130-room hotel with a 200-
seat restaurant and lounge area, meeting rooms, and an administrative/service area for a total
floor area of approximately 122,540 square feet. A total of 229 parking spaces are also
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-2 August 2007
proposed. An EIR was approved for the project by the Encinitas City Council on January 22,
1992.
Poinsettia Single-family Residential (CT –5-10)
This project proposes the subdivision of approximately 5.0 acres into 29 single-family
residential lots, two open space lots, and one driveway lot. The project site is located to the
northeast of the Ponto Beachfront Village site, east of Interstate 5 along Poinsettia Lane. A
Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND), dated May 2, 2006, and a Notice of Declaration
(NoD), dated May 19, 2006, have been issued for the project.
Calvary Chapel (CUP 04-05)
The Calvary Chapel project is located on an approximately 27-acre site, located to the
northeast of the Ponto Beachfront Village project site, across Interstate 5 at the northeast
corner of Aviara Parkway and Poinsettia Lane. The project proposes a 13-acre church
campus, supporting a 49,000 sq. ft. multi-purpose building and family center (maximum
capacity 1,800 persons). Uses proposed as part of the church campus include a 19,000 sq. ft.
two-story preschool (150 students), 4,000 sq. ft. chapel building, 7,000 sq. ft. gymnasium,
3,000 sq. ft. youth building, and 6,000 sq. ft. adult education building. Approximately 1,050
parking spaces will be provided to support the facilities. A MND, dated September 20, 2005,
and a NOD, dated January 11, 2005, have been issued for the project.
Bressi Ranch (CT 02-14; CT 02-15; CT 03-03; CT 02-19)
The Bressi Ranch project site is approximately 585.1 acres in size and is located to the
northeast of the project site, east of Interstate 5 and along Palomar Airport Road. The project
site is divided into a northern and a southern portion and will ultimately include development
of 15 planning areas and six open space areas. The northern area (approximately 150.3 acres)
will involve development of five industrial lots; the southern area (approximately 434.8
acres) will include development of seven residential lots, one industrial lot, one mixed-use
lot, one community facility lot, and six open space lots. A Master Plan EIR was approved for
the project on July 23, 2002. Portions of the project are currently either built or under
construction, while other areas remain unbuilt.
La Costa Town Square Project (CT 01-09)
The La Costa Town Square project site is approximately 81 acres in size, located to the
southeast of the Ponto Beachfront Village project site, near the northeast corner of La Costa
Drive and Rancho Santa Fe; refer to Figure 7-1. The project proposes a mixed-use
retail/commercial/office/residential development. The project will result in the development
of 131 residential units, 80,000 sq. ft. of industrial space, and 380,000 sq. ft. of commercial
space. Approximately 5.7 acres will be protected as onsite open space. An EIR is currently
pending for the project.
Shoreline Resort – City of Encinitas (00-201)
The Shoreline Resort project is 26-unit timeshare/hotel development and associated site
improvements on 1.81 acres. The property is zoned Visitor-Serving Commercial and is
located within the North 101 Corridor Specific Plan within the City of Encinitas. The project
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-3 August 2007
is located south of the proposed project site and Batiquitos Lagoon on the northeast corner of
Highway 101 and La Costa Avenue. The project requires a Major Use Permit, Design
Review Permit, and a Coastal Development Permit. The development will construct a
limited term occupancy 26-unit timeshare and hotel. A minimum of seven units are reserved
as exclusive use hotel units. An Environmental Impact Report was certified by the City of
Encinitas on September 1, 2005.
Coral Cove Tentative Map – City of Encinitas (03-090)
The Coral Cove project is a subdivision of approximately 10 acres into 69 residential lots (39
detached single-family and 30 attached single-family) through a density bonus and a Planned
Residential Development, Major Use Permit, Design Review Permit, and a Coastal
Development Permit. An EIR was certified by the City of Encinitas on June 1, 2006.
7.1.2 Air Quality
7.1.2.1 Cumulative Construction Emissions
The San Diego Regional Air Quality Strategies (RAQS) establish an “emissions budget” for
the San Diego Air Basin. This budget takes into account existing conditions, planned growth
based on the general plans of cities within the San Diego Association of Governments
(SANDAG) region, and air quality control measures implemented by the San Diego Air
Pollution Control District (SDAPCD).
With respect to the project’s construction-period air quality emissions and cumulative Basin-
wide conditions, the SDAPCD has developed strategies to reduce criteria pollutant emissions
outlined in the RAQS pursuant to FCAA mandates. As such, the proposed project would
comply with all feasible mitigation measures. In addition, the proposed project would comply
with adopted RAQS emissions control measures. Per SDAPCD rules and mandates as well as
the CEQA requirement that significant impacts be mitigated to the maximum extent feasible,
these same requirements (i.e., fugitive dust compliance, the implementation of all feasible
mitigation measures, and compliance with adopted RAQS emissions control measures)
would also be imposed on construction projects Basin-wide, which would include each of the
related projects mentioned above.
Although compliance with SDAPCD rules and regulations would reduce construction-related
impacts, the project-related construction emissions have been concluded to be significant and
unavoidable. Thus, it can be reasonably inferred that the project-related construction
activities, in combination with those from other projects in the area would deteriorate the
local air quality and lead to cumulative construction-related impact. Therefore, even with the
implementation of Mitigation Measures AQ-1 through AQ-5 given in Section 5.1, a
significant and unavoidable cumulative construction air quality impact would result.
7.1.2.2 Cumulative Long-Term Impacts
The SDAPCD classifies cumulative impacts as direct and indirect project emissions. If a
project-related air quality impact is individually less than significant, the impacts of
reasonably anticipated future activities, probable future projects, and past projects are
included based on similar air quality impacts, transport considerations and geographic
location. Currently the SDAPCD’s approach towards assessing cumulative impacts is based
on the fact that the SDAPCD Regional Air Quality Strategy forecasts attainment of ambient
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-4 August 2007
air quality standards in accordance with the requirements of the CCAA, which takes into
account the SANDAG forecasted future regional growth. Although it has been shown that the
project would be consistent with RAQS and the RCP, the project would still exceed the
SDAPCD regional thresholds of significance for ROG and PM10, which are regional
transport pollutants and ozone precursors. As a result, the proposed project in combination
with other reasonably foreseeable projects could lead to periodic exceedances of the Ambient
Air Quality Standards. Therefore, the proposed project would result in a significant and
unavoidable cumulatively significant impact.
7.1.3 Biological Resources
As shown on Table 5.2-5, the implementation of the proposed project would significantly
impact approximately 3.14 acres of three sensitive vegetation communities (southern willow
scrub, southern coastal bluff scrub [including disturbed], and Diegan coastal sage scrub
[including disturbed]). In addition, the proposed project would impact 22.7 acres of
vegetation communities that are not sensitive but require mitigation (eucalyptus woodland
and disturbed habitat).
In addition to significant biological resource impacts associated with the proposed project,
the biological resources analysis for the Ponto Vision Plan analyzed potential cumulative
impacts resulting from the five seven development projects identified within the cumulative
study area (City of Encinitas Hotel Project, Poinsettia Single-family Residential, Calvary
Chapel Project, Bressi Ranch, and La Costa Town Square Project, Encinitas Beach Hotel,
and Coral Cove Tentative Map). One project, Poinsettia Single-family Residential, was
determined not to result in significant impacts to biological resources, given that the site was
previously impacted in conjunction with the surrounding residential development. The
remaining four six cumulative projects would result in significant, but mitigable, impacts to
biological resources.
Two Three of the five cumulative projects would result in impacts to 416.0417 acres of
vegetation communities requiring mitigation, including 0.08 acre of southern willow scrub,
30.931 acres of Diegan coastal sage scrub (including disturbed), and 385.0 acres of disturbed
habitat; refer to Table 7-2. These impacts would be significant, but mitigable.
The proposed project would significantly impact 0.04 acre of southern willow scrub, which
represents 33.3 percent of the currently assessed cumulative impacts. The proposed project
would impact 0.1 acre of southern coastal bluff scrub (including disturbed) and 0.3 acre of
eucalyptus woodland, which represents 100 percent of the currently assessed cumulative
impacts for both habitats. The proposed project would significantly impact 1.2 acres of
Diegan coastal sage scrub (including disturbed), which represents 3.7 percent of the currently
assessed cumulative impacts. The proposed project would significantly impact 21.1 acres of
disturbed habitat, which represents 5.2 percent of the currently assessed cumulative impacts.
Because the proposed project would fully mitigate for its impacts to these habitats,
cumulative impacts would not be significant.
All projects are required to mitigate for impacts to sensitive vegetation communities pursuant
to the Natural Communities Conservation Planning program (NCCP). All impacts would be
fully mitigated. As such, the proposed project together with the five cumulative projects
would not have a significant impact on vegetation communities; refer to Table 7-2.
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-5 August 2007
Of the five seven cumulative projects, two projects would result in significant or potentially
significant but mitigable impacts to biological resources. The proposed project and other
projects being proposed or constructed in the area would be required to comply with regional
planning efforts (i.e., NCCP) intended to address cumulative impacts to sensitive plant and
animal species, as well as the habitats in which they occur. The proposed project would
provide mitigation for impacts to sensitive habitats consistent with these plans. As a result,
the proposed project would result in less than significant cumulative impacts to sensitive
biological resources.
Therefore, the Vision Plan is not anticipated to contribute to a cumulative impact related to
biological resources.
7.1.4 Cultural Resources
Land within the immediate area surrounding the project site is generally built-out. With the
development of the five identified cumulative projects, the potential for an increase in
impacts on archaeological sites in the City would occur, as grading and construction
activities would result in disturbance to the lands.
According to CEQA, the importance of cultural resources comes from the research value and
the information they contain. Therefore, the issue that must be explored in a cumulative
analysis is the cumulative loss of that information. For sites considered less than significant,
the information is preserved through recordation and test excavations. Significant sites that
are placed within open space easements would avoid impacts to cultural resources while
preserving the data. Significant sites that are not placed within open space easements would
preserve the information through recordation, test excavations, and data recovery programs
that would be presented in reports and filed with the City of Carlsbad and the South Coastal
Information Center (SCIC). The artifact collections from any potentially significant site
would also be curated at the San Diego Archaeological Center and would also be available to
other archaeologists for further study.
The cultural resources analysis for the Ponto project indicated that, as significant cultural
sites have been identified on the project site, additional significant cultural resources may be
located within the City of Carlsbad. Disturbance of and construction on the currently vacant
portions of the site have the potential to affect cultural resources in the site vicinity,
potentially leading to a significant cumulative loss of such resources in the area. As
development of the five seven projects identified for the cumulative analysis occurs in the
future, landowners would be required to complete a site review and technical studies, as
appropriate, to identify potentially significant cultural resources sites and provide proper
mitigation to reduce impacts to less than significant. The proposed project's potential impacts
to cultural resources would be mitigated to below a level of significance through
establishment of a grading monitoring program, and all sites identified within the project
footprint would be recorded. To reduce potential impacts on cultural resources located on the
cumulative projects sites, mitigation measures, such as open space easements, and/or
monitoring during grading activities, would be required to reduce impacts to less than
significant. Therefore, because the impacts resulting from the proposed project and those
projects within the cumulative impact study area would be mitigated to less than significant,
the proposed project would not cumulatively contribute to a significant impact on cultural
resources.
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-6 August 2007
7.1.5 Hazardous Materials and Hazards
Continued future development, both on vacant and redeveloped lands, within the City of
Carlsbad has the potential to result in the discovery of or human exposure to hazards or
hazardous materials. With consideration of the five seven project sites considered for the
cumulative analysis, preparation of Phase I Environmental Site Assessments would be
required, as applicable, to identify hazardous conditions on the properties and to determine
the potential for significant human health risk or hazardous conditions (i.e., contaminated
soils or risk of wildfire). Additional assessment in the form of a Phase II analysis may also be
required, if materials or conditions onsite are determined to pose substantial hazardous risk.
Mitigation in the form of site remediation would be required as necessary to mitigate the
potential impact as the result of each development project. In addition, a change in ownership
of any of the ownerships would require identification of hazardous materials and
conformance with the applicable federal, state and local regulations for the clean-up of such
materials or conditions. As a result, implementation of the Ponto Vision Plan, with
consideration for the other cumulative projects, is not anticipated to contribute to a
significant cumulative impact related to hazards or hazardous materials.
7.1.6 Noise
Of the other five seven related projects that have been identified within the project study
area, the Applicant has no control over the timing or sequencing of related projects, and as
such, any quantitative analysis to ascertain the daily construction emissions that assumes
multiple, concurrent construction would be speculative. Construction-related noise for the
proposed project and each related project would be localized. In addition, it is likely that each
of the related projects would have to comply with the local noise ordinance, as well as
mitigation measures that may be prescribed pursuant to CEQA provisions that require
significant impacts to be reduced to the extent feasible. Thus, as construction noise is
localized in nature and drops off rapidly from the source, a significant cumulative
construction-related noise impact would not result. Mitigation measures given Section 5.5
would ensure that cumulative noise impacts from project construction do not result.
With regard to stationary sources, the major stationary sources of noise that would be
introduced in the Vision Plan Area by related projects would include rooftop equipment,
loading docks, and residential activities. Since these projects would be required to adhere to
City of Carlsbad noise standards, all the stationary sources would be required to provide
shielding or other noise abatement measures so as not to cause a substantial increase in
ambient noise levels. As such, it is not anticipated that a significant cumulative increase in
permanent ambient noise levels would occur and the impact would be less than significant.
Consequently, the proposed Vision Plan’s contribution to cumulative stationary noise
impacts is not considered to be cumulatively considerable.
7.1.7 Traffic and Circulation
The cumulative impact analysis forecasts the traffic impacts in an area resulting from the
proposed project when considered with other related past, present, and reasonably
foreseeable probable future projects.
The North County Subarea Model, which is based on the SANDAG Series 10 model, was
used for the Near Term 2010 Analysis to identify the project’s potential for significant
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-7 August 2007
cumulative impacts. Average Daily Traffic volumes produced by the traffic model were post-
processed to forecast peak hour intersection turning movement volumes and peak hour
roadway segment volumes. In the vicinity of the new roadways, turns reports produced by
the traffic model were reviewed to identify potential changes in traffic patterns with the
opening and/or extension of new roadways. The Subarea model assumes the full buildout of
the roadway network identified in the City’s Circulation Element by the year 2030, which
assumes the following major transportation improvements to be in place in the City of
Carlsbad in the near term (prior to 2010):
Extension of El Fuerte from Palomar Airport Road to Faraday Avenue (2007);
Construction of Faraday Avenue from El Camino to Melrose Drive (2007); and,
Completion of Poinsettia Lane (2010).
Under the 2010 analysis, two scenarios were analyzed. The first scenario analyzed 2010
traffic without the land uses proposed by the Vision Plan. For this scenario, it was assumed
that the Ponto Area would be developed with uses as defined by the existing General Plan
land use designations for the site. The Ponto Area would generate between 12,708 and
15,408 daily trips if developed under the existing General Plan land use designations. Based
on a trip distribution and assignment model, peak hour traffic volumes and average daily trip
volumes were calculated for the study area intersections and street segments for this scenario
(2010 Without Vision Plan). The results are provided on Figures 7-2, 7-4, and 7-5.
The second scenario analyzed 2010 traffic with the land uses proposed by the Vision Plan.
The land uses proposed by the Vision Plan would generate approximately 15,161 trips. Based
on a trip distribution and assignment model, peak hour traffic volumes and average daily trip
volumes were calculated for the study area intersections and street segments for this scenario
(2010 with Vision Plan). The results are provided on Figures 7-3, 7-6 and 7-7.
For both scenarios, the LOS for the study area intersections was analyzed using the delay-
based 2000 Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) Operations methodology. This methodology
is described in detail in the Traffic Analysis provided in Appendix G. The results are
discussed below.
Intersection Operations
Table 7-3 summarizes the results of the Near-Term (2010) analysis for both scenarios
(Without Vision Plan and With Vision Plan). As illustrated on Figures 7-4 through 7-7, most
intersections would operate at an acceptable (LOS A or B) or marginal LOS (LOS C or D) in
the year 2010 under both scenarios (Without the Vision Plan and With the Vision Plan). The
following four intersections are forecast to operate at deficient (“failing”) LOS (LOS E or F)
without or with the Vision Plan:
Palomar Airport Road / El Camino Real;
Palomar Airport Road / El Fuerte Street;
La Costa Avenue / North Coast Highway 101;
La Costa Avenue / Vulcan Avenue, and,
La Costa Avenue / El Camino Real.
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-8 August 2007
To determine if the Vision Plan’s contribution to the above impacts are significant, the
following threshold applies:
When an intersection or roadway segment is operating at deficient service levels, the
addition of trips generated by the proposed land use in the Vision Plan results in an
increase in delay of more than 2.0 seconds when compared to the Without Vision
Plan condition.
Impacts T-1 and T-2 The traffic generated by implementation of the Vision Plan would not
result in a change in delay of more than 2.0 seconds at the above intersections, with the
exception of the intersections at La Costa Avenue/North Coast Highway 101 and La Costa
Avenue/Vulcan Avenue, when compared to the 2010 Without the Vision Plan analysis; refer
to Table 7-3. Therefore, this would be considered a significant impact and mitigation would
be required.
Street Segments
The peak hour roadway segment analysis determined the LOS of the street segments within
the study area (for the Without the Vision Plan and With the Vision Plan scenarios) by
calculating volume-to-capacity ratio (V/C) of the street segments. The V/C of a street
segment is calculated by dividing the peak hour traffic volume (or average daily traffic
volume) of the street segment by the peak hour capacity (or daily capacity) of the street
segment. The following V/C ratios determine the LOS of the street segment:
V/C of 0.00 to 0.60: LOS A
V/C of 0.61 to 0.70: LOS B
V/C of 0.71 to 0.80: LOS C
V/C of 0.81 to 0.90: LOS D
V/C of 0.91 to 1.00: LOS E
V/C over 1.00: LOS F
Peak Hour Street Segments
The results of the 2010 Peak Hour Segment Analysis are provided in Table 7-4. Based on the
road segment capacities identified in the City of Carlsbad’s Circulation Element, all future
roadway segments are forecast to operate at an acceptable LOS (LOS D or better) during the
peak hours under both 2010 scenarios (Without the Vision Plan and With the Vision Plan).
Therefore, peak hour impacts to the street segments would be considered less than
significant.
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation Measures T-1 through T-2 (refer to Section 5.6.4) would mitigate the Vision
Plan’s contribution to cumulative intersection impacts that would occur under the year 2010
analysis.
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-9 August 2007
7.1.8 Grading and Aesthetics
Over time, development of the project site would ultimately change the visual character of
the existing conditions, as the property stands largely undeveloped. Short-term impacts
would result from grading and construction on the site, and would convert the natural setting
into a built environment, similar to the developed lands adjacent to the property. However,
the Vision Plan provides design guidelines to reduce potential visual impacts and to ensure
an adhesive visual character that would respect the site’s location along the scenic corridor.
In addition, development would occur consistent with the City’s Scenic Corridor Guidelines,
zoning and General Plan designations, coastal development restrictions, and other applicable
development standards, policies and regulations to reduce potential visual impacts to less
than significant. Project-specific visual impacts were not identified for the development that
would result with implementation of the Vision Plan. In addition, all cumulative projects
would require City of Carlsbad or City of Encinitas review for determination of conformance
with applicable policies and regulations, pertaining to visual resources, including consistency
with the General Plan. Therefore, future development associated with the Vision Plan is not
anticipated to contribute to a cumulative visual impact related to grading or aesthetics.
7.1.9 Agricultural Resources
Several large-scale agricultural operations are active within the City of Carlsbad. The Flower
Fields and the strawberry fields also represent agricultural activities, with other smaller-scale
operations within the city limits on individual properties, providing produce and other
agricultural products for commercial sale.
Development within both the City of Carlsbad and the County of San Diego will continue to
result in the conversion of agricultural lands to urban uses in the future. Although agricultural
activities occurred on the project site, the development area is no longer actively used for
such operations. Therefore, development of the project site would not remove such activities
from the County’s agricultural operations or resources. In addition, the project would not
convert land designated as Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide
Importance as identified by the California Department of Conservation, as no such lands
have been identified onsite. Although agricultural lands may be converted with the
cumulative projects considered, the conversion of such lands to an urban use reflects the
general trend within the City and the region, largely due to economic and social influences.
The City’s General Plan and General Plan EIR recognize this condition and account for such
impacts with the intent that agricultural lands be used for such purposes as desired until
planning for alternative uses is applicable. Therefore, project impacts are not considered to
be cumulatively considerable by impeding existing or future agricultural uses within the City
of Carlsbad or the surrounding region.
7.1.10 Geology and Soils
Cumulative development would result in the potential for exposure of a greater number of
people to geologic conditions where the risk to human health may be increased (i.e.,
earthquakes). Due to location and distance from the project site, development of the projects
considered in the cumulative analysis in combination with development of the project site
would not create a cumulatively considerable geologic hazard, such as an increased risk of
mudslides or unstable slopes. Hazardous geologic conditions would be addressed through
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-10 August 2007
project-specific review, both on the project site and on the cumulative projects sites, thereby
reducing potential impacts to less than significant through applicable engineering and
grading applications. Implementation of the Vision Plan is therefore not considered to
contribute to a significant cumulative impact relative to geology or soils.
7.1.11 Hydrology/Water Quality
The Ponto development area lies within the San Marcos hydrologic area of the Carlsbad
Hydrographic Unit. Receiving waters for the project site are the Batiquitos Lagoon and the
Pacific Ocean.
The design of individual projects within the project development area would not significantly
alter drainage patterns downstream of the site within the watershed. While runoff patterns
would be altered by the construction of curbs, streets, and other improvements, these changes
would occur within the project area limits. As a result, existing drainage facilities within the
watershed or another watershed would not be adversely affected by a significant change in
drainage patterns. Therefore, the proposed project is not considered to result in a significant
cumulative impact to hydrologic conditions.
In addition, the proposed offsite improvements within Carlsbad Boulevard would allow flows
to continue downstream as under existing conditions. The proposed road relocation would
not substantially increase peak discharges, substantially increase the runoff coefficient, or
decrease the time of concentration. Thus, hydrologic conditions would not be adversely
impacted by the road widening improvements required with the proposed project. Therefore,
the project is not anticipated to contribute to a cumulative considerable impact to hydrology
as the result of offsite roadway improvements.
Implementation of the proposed project, in addition to cumulative projects in the surrounding
area, would result in an increased amount of soil disturbance and increased impervious
surfaces within the cumulative study area. This could potentially result in increased erosion,
runoff, flooding hazards, and pollutant concentrations within the watershed. BMPs for the
proposed project would reduce potentially significant project level drainage/hydrology
impacts to less than significant. The change in land use and associated increase in the runoff
from impervious surfaces, along with the addition of drainage facilities, is not anticipated to
create a cumulatively considerable impact to existing hydrologic conditions.
All approved or future developments considered in the cumulative analysis, including the
proposed project, would also be required to implement BMPs to reduce potential water
quality impacts to less than significant, consistent with the City’s Jurisdictional Urban
Runoff Management Plan (JURMP) and Standard Urban Storm Water Mitigation Plan
(SUSMP) requirements. The combination of proposed construction and post-construction
BMPs would reduce, to the maximum extent practicable, the expected pollutants and would
not adversely impact the beneficial uses or water quality of the receiving waters within the
watershed. As a result, no cumulatively considerable water quality impacts are anticipated for
the projects considered, in combination with development of the proposed project.
7.1.12 Land Use
The area surrounding the project site is largely built out, with little vacant land remaining for
potential new development. Land uses proposed for the project development area would be
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-11 August 2007
consistent with that intended by the General Plan. Future development within the City would
also be required to demonstrate consistency with the General Plan, Growth Management
Plans, and other regulations intended to guide growth within the City in the future.
Consistency with these plans and regulations would ensure that such projects did not
contribute to a cumulative impact related to land use. As such, development of the project
area is not considered to contribute to a significant cumulative land use impact.
7.1.13 Population and Housing
As required, the proposed project would be consistent with the goals and policies of the
City’s Growth Management Plan and LFMPs (for applicable Zones 9 and 22). Similarly, all
existing and future development is required to demonstrate consistency with these Plans to
guide future growth and the provision of public facilities and services within the City.
Conformance with these Plans and continued review and updates by the City to ensure that
development occurs as planned would reduce impacts to population and housing caused by
uncontrolled growth or insufficient facilities or services to less than significant. Therefore,
implementation of the Vision Plan is not anticipated to contribute to a cumulative impact
related to housing or population.
7.1.14 Public Services and Utilities
As with future development within the City of Carlsbad, development of the project site
would result in an incremental increase in the demand for public utilities and services.
Although the area surrounding the Ponto development area is largely built out, population
within the City will continue to grow in the future, thereby increasing the demand for public
services such as police and fire protection, as well as utilities such as water and electrical
power; however, all future development within the City would be required to be consistent
with the applicable LFMP as part of the City’s Growth Management Program. As such,
public services and utilities would be adequately provided for within each LFMP zone, and
as applicable to the projects considered in the cumulative analysis, thereby reducing potential
impacts on such resources. All existing and future development would be required to pay
fees as appropriate for such services to provide a financial mechanism for construction or
service, thereby ensuring that such services and facilities are adequate at the time of
development. As the project development area and the other projects considered in the
cumulative analysis would be consistent with the measures of the appropriate LFMPs,
cumulative impacts on public services and facilities would be less than significant.
7.1.15 Recreation
Development of the project site would result in an increase in both permanent and transient
population in the project area, thereby increasing the demand for provision of recreational
services. However, development of the site would occur consistent with the LFMPs prepared
for Zones 9 and 22 for the provision of parks. The Vision Plan also envisions an approximate
four-acre linear park with picnic tables and benches with views to the ocean for recreational
purposes. Other recreational amenities include a wetland interpretive park, nature/arts center,
and numerous trails and pathways, in addition to the amenities provided by the hotels and
resort services. Improvements for parking and access are also planned to improve
recreational opportunities provided by South Carlsbad State Beach. As a result of the land
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-12 August 2007
uses proposed, implementation of the Ponto Vision Plan is not anticipated to contribute to a
significant cumulative impact on recreational resources.
7.2 Growth Inducing Impacts
As required by State CEQA Guidelines (Section 15126.2(d), consideration of growth-
inducing impacts resulting from the project is required as part of the EIR analysis. Growth
inducement is defined according to CEQA as, “…ways in which the proposed project could
foster economic or population growth, or the construction of additional housing, either
directly or indirectly, in the surrounding environment.”
Induced growth is any growth that exceeds planned growth and results from new
development that would not have taken place without the implementation of the proposed
project. Typically, the growth inducing potential of a project would be considered significant
if it results in growth or population concentration that exceeds those assumptions included in
pertinent master plans, land use plans, or projections made by regional planning authorities.
Implementation of the Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan would not remove any barriers
to growth that would otherwise preclude development if the proposed uses were not to be
developed. The project site is located adjacent to established residential neighborhoods.
Although the majority of the Ponto site is largely vacant, infrastructure (water, sewer, and
electric utilities) currently extend to the site and are available to serve the proposed uses.
Therefore, no major extension of infrastructure would be required to serve the Ponto
development area, although improvements are proposed. The minor extension of
infrastructure into the project site as necessary to serve areas that are currently vacant would
not open up any new lands near the Ponto site for development, as areas adjacent to the Ponto
site are already built-out and are served by public sewer, water and other utility systems.
The resulting development proposed by the Ponto Vision Plan would be consistent with
growth patterns anticipated by the City of Carlsbad General Plan for the area. The uses
proposed would be consistent with the City General Plan and Growth Management Program,
and would conform to the goals and policies of the Local Facilities Management Plans
(Zones 9 and 22) for infrastructure improvements and public services, such as educational
facilities and recreational amenities, and would thereby not represent an increase in the
number of dwelling units or population above that anticipated. As stated previously, the
Vision Plan would reduce the density and the overall number of proposed units as compared
to that allowed under the existing General Plan designations, thereby reducing potential
growth assumed for the area in the LFMPs.
Implementation of the Vision Plan would result in the development of the project site with
hotels, timeshare units, and residential units, in addition to commercial retail and recreational
amenities. As the hotel and timeshare units would support a transient population, rather than
a permanent long-term demand for housing, these uses would not be considered to directly
result in an increase in dwelling units for people residing in the area. The Vision Plan would
generate short-term employment opportunities over time during the construction phase on
individual properties, and long-term employment opportunities during the operations phase
in the proposed resort and commercial uses; however, this level of development and type of
use (visitor/commercial) is not expected to directly or indirectly result in a significant
increase in population in the area, nor a significant increase in the demand for housing.
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-13 August 2007
Therefore, implementation of the Vision Plan would not result in a direct or indirect growth-
inducing impact.
7.3 Significant Irreversible Environmental Changes
As required by CEQA Section 15126.2(c), the consideration for the Ponto Beachfront Vision
Plan to result in the potential use of non-renewable resources during both the project
construction phase and the long-term occupancy and operational phases. Non-renewable
resources may include energy; gravel; sand; lumber or other wood products; water; fossil
fuels; metals; and, petrochemical construction materials. Construction activities within the
Ponto development area, as well as during the future operation of the proposed uses, would
contribute to an incremental consumption of these resources both locally and regionally. In
addition, the development of land within the Ponto Vision Plan development area would be
consistent with the City’s plans for growth and development, as referenced in the adopted
policies and goals of the General Plan and the LFMPs. Therefore, the consumption of these
resources is not anticipated to result in a significant degradation or destruction of sensitive
natural resources.
7.4 Unavoidable Significant Environmental Impacts
The proposed project would not result in an unavoidable long-term significant environmental
impact to air quality. As development of the project site would add project traffic to the
circulation system, an increase in air quality emissions would occur. As the San Diego Air
Basin is in non-attainment for state air quality standards for O3 and PM10, the project would
contribute emissions to an existing air quality violation. This significant impact would occur
over the long-term, as technology is not available to reduce future vehicular operations and
resultant air pollutants to a less than significant level.
Refer to the analysis included in Chapter 5.0 of this EIR for discussion of significant impacts
resulting from the project.
7.5 Effects Found Not to be Significant
7.5.1 Effects Found Not to be Significant as Part of the EIR Process
Based on the analysis given in Chapter 5.0 of this EIR, the proposed Ponto Beachfront Village
Vision Plan would not result in significant impacts for the areas of Grading and Aesthetics;
Agricultural Resources; Geology/Soils; Hydrology/Water Quality; Land Use; Population and
Housing; Utilities and Public Services; and Recreation.
7.5.2 Effects Found Not to be Significant During the Initial Study
Effects found not to be potentially significant as part of the Initial Study and EIR scoping
process include: Energy and Mineral Resources, Population and Housing, and Recreational
Facilities, and therefore, were not included in the analysis in Section 5.0. Refer to the Initial
Study provided in Appendix A of this EIR for a discussion of potential impacts found not to
be significant during the initial EIR scoping process.
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-14 August 2007
7.5.2.1 Energy and Mineral Resources
Future development of the Ponto area would require the consumption of energy during the
construction phase, as well as during occupancy and operation of the proposed uses. Energy
use for the area would consist of that typical of similar uses and would include electricity, oil,
petroleum and other non-renewable resources. All future construction would be required to
comply with Title 24 of the California Administrative Code, which establishes energy
conservation requirements for new construction. Significant sources of non-renewable energy
resources or known mineral resources of value to the City, region or state have not been
identified within the City of Carlsbad, and therefore, future development of the project site
would not result in the loss or decreased availability of such resources. Therefore,
implementation of the Vision Plan is not anticipated to result in significant impacts to energy
or mineral resources.
7.5.2.2 Population and Housing
As described in Section 5.11, Land Use and Planning, as part of the City’s Growth
Management Program (GMP) and consistent with Chapter 21.90 of the City Zoning
Ordinance, the City has been divided into 25 subareas, or zones, to guide the provision of
facilities at a detailed level and to ensure that services and facilities will be adequately
provided for existing and future development. Local Facilities Management Plans (LFMPs)
address future growth and the future demand on public services and facilities. Preparation of
a LFMP is required for each zone to implement the GMP by phasing development and the
provision of public facilities, consistent with the GMP performance standards. The Ponto
Vision Plan area is located within Zones 9 and 22 of the City’s Local Facilities Management
Plans; refer to Figure 5.12-1. Future development proposals within the Ponto development
area would be required to demonstrate that proposed facilities are consistent with the
appropriate LFMP or propose amendments to the LFMP to ensure that public facilities and
services are adequately provided to serve the development.
The GMP limits the number of residential building permits that can be issued throughout the
city to a maximum of approximately 54,600 dwelling units at buildout. The proposed project
is within the Southwest Quadrant of the City, which allows for a maximum total of 12,859
dwelling units at buildout. This maximum number of units cannot be changed, unless
approved by public vote.
The Zone 9 LFMP, originally adopted in 1989, anticipated the buildout development capacity
of the Zone to be 910 dwelling units and approximately 1,092,200 square feet of non-
residential use. The 1993 LFMP amendment reflected the adoption of the Poinsettia Shores
Master Plan and revised the projected number of residential dwelling units to 1,023, or an
additional 113 units as allowed by the City of Carlsbad Density Bonus Ordinance. Projected
non-residential uses were reduced to 178,600 square feet and 220 timeshares/hotel units.
The Zone 22 LFMP, originally adopted in 1988, projected residential buildout at 1,472
dwelling units and 970,952 square feet of non-residential development. With the 1997 LFMP
amendment, which reflected the adoption of the Poinsettia Shores Master Plan, the number of
projected dwelling units was revised to 1,426. Non-residential uses were increased to
1,001,436 square feet.
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-15 August 2007
The adopted City of Carlsbad General Plan designates a mixture of uses for the project
development area, which include travel, recreation, commercial, neighborhood commercial,
and residential uses. under the existing land use designations. With implementation of the
Vision Plan, the uses proposed would remain consistent with the type of development
envisioned for this area under the current land use designations. As proposed under the
Vision Plan, the 50-acre development area would be developed at a reduced density as
compared to that which is currently allowed, thereby creating a corresponding reduction to
population projections within the southwest quadrant of the City.
Through the GMP, the City actively monitors development activity to assure compliance
with the Growth Management Plan and ensure that adequate facilities and services are
available for the City’s residents as the population continues to grow. Monitoring techniques
include subdivision review; monthly development monitoring reports (residential and non-
residential building permit activity); traffic monitoring reports; annual reporting on
performance measures for growth management and capital projects to City Council; annual
evaluation of individual capital improvement projects; an excess dwelling unit bank to
control residential development; and, construction updates for public and private projects.
Performance standards for future growth are established in the City’s Growth Management
Plan and address eleven public facilities, of which eight are provided by the City of Carlsbad
and three are provided in part by other agencies. These standards allow the City to control
future development and to estimate future demand for public facilities and services, as well
as to plan for the construction of such facilities. City approval of proposed development
requires that the applicant demonstrate consistency with the performance standards
established for the zone.
Implementation of the project would not remove any barriers to growth that would otherwise
preclude development if the project were not to be developed. The proposed project would
involve minor construction, extension, or relocation of existing utilities to serve the project
site. As surrounding neighborhoods to the north and east are built out and currently receive
public water and sewer services, provision of these services to the project site would not
provide increased capacity beyond existing conditions that would allow for the construction
of a number of residential units that may not be anticipated by the General Plan and zoning
designations because of the increased capacity. Therefore, impacts due to population growth
due to the provision of utilities for development of the project site would be less than
significant.
As stated above, implementation of the Vision Plan would result in a reduction in the number
of residential units and resulting population from that anticipated for in the approved LFMPs
for Zones 9 and 22. As discussed in Section 5.12, Public Services and Utilities,
implementation of the Vision Plan would not adversely impact planned or current levels of
service for public facilities such as sewer, water, open space, parks, libraries, or fire or police
protection, as the Plan would be consistent with (or lower than) the number of dwelling units
planned for the area in the LFMPs. As a result, implementation of the Vision Plan would not
significantly impact the planned residential unit count, population, or growth patterns
intended for the project development area, or place an unanticipated demand on public
facilities or services.
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-16 August 2007
Therefore, implementation of the Vision Plan is not anticipated to induce substantial
population growth of the area, either directly (i.e., by proposing new homes and businesses)
or indirectly (i.e., through extension of roads or other infrastructure), as growth and provision
of facilities and services would occur consistent with that projected for the area.
Development within the proposed Ponto development areaArea would therefore be in
conformance with the City General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, Growth Management Plan,
LFMPs 9 and 22, and the South Carlsbad Coastal Redevelopment Area Plan, as well as other
applicable goals and policies pertaining the future growth and development.
Development of individual properties on the project site with the proposed residential,
commercial, and recreational uses would generate short-term employment opportunities
during the construction phase and long-term employment opportunities during the operations
phase; however, this level of development and type of uses is not expected to directly or
indirectly result in a significant increase in population in the area, nor a significant increase
in the demand for permanent housing. Therefore, impacts to on area population growth
would be less than significant.
In addition, the Vision Plan is intended to serve as a guide for redevelopment of the Ponto
development area and does not propose site-specific development or a phasing schedule for
when development should occur. As development of the area would take place over future
years, with applications submitted by individual landowners when development or
redevelopment is desired, implementation of the Vision Plan would not result in adverse
impacts caused by the displacement of substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating
the construction of replacement housing elsewhere, as current landowners would not be
forced from their homes or businesses to facilitate the proposed development.
7.5.2.3 Recreational Facilities
Implementation of the Vision Plan would not result in significant impacts to existing
recreational uses as a result of the project. Future development would be required to prepare
development plans consistent with the Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan, which includes
design elements to supplement and enhance opportunities for recreation in the area. Such
elements include a variety of trails and pathways, a Beachfront Resort multi-purpose trail, a
wetland interpretive trail, pedestrian trails with connection to a regional trail system, and a
connection to the Coastal Rail Trail which runs to the east of the Ponto site. Additional
parking along and a pedestrian underpass below Carlsbad Boulevard are proposed for
improved vehicular and pedestrian access to the South Carlsbad State Beach and
Campground. Other recreational elements and community amenities envisioned include
construction of a wetland interpretive park, a golf putting course, a community nature/arts
center, an approximate four-acre linear park to the west of (realigned) Carlsbad Boulevard,
and other plazas, courtyards, and pedestrian spaces for both active and passive recreational
opportunities.
In addition, the LFMPs for Zones 9 and 22 state that sufficient existing and projected
parkland has been identified through buildout of the Southwest Quadrant. To ensure the
continued provision of parkland within the District and conformance with performance
standards, landowners within the quadrant would be required to pay Park-in-Lieu fees and
Public Facilities Fees for the financing of parks prior to the approval of final maps or
issuance of building permits, as no additional dedication of parkland is required. The LFMPs
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-17 August 2007
for Zones 9 and 22 require this condition. As the provision of parkland within the District is
adequate, implementation of the Ponto Vision Plan would meet the performance standards
and impacts would be less than significant.
Therefore, the Vision Plan is not anticipated to increase the use of existing neighborhood or
regional parks or other recreational facilities such that a substantial deterioration of a facility
would occur. In addition, implementation of the Vision Plan would not include the
construction or expansion of recreational facilities that would have an adverse affect on the
environment. Therefore, the project would not adversely affect existing recreational
opportunities or resources within the City, and impacts would be less than significant.
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final IR 7-18 August 2007
Table 7-1
Cumulative Projects
Site
Number
Reference/Project
Number NAME Characteristics/Status Impacts
1 99-001; 04-268; 93-
172
(Located south of
project site, across
Batiquitos Lagoon)
Hotel Project
(City of
Encinitas)
The project is a consolidation of
four existing lots into one parcel of
4.3 acres, a major use permit for a
130-room hotel, with a 200-seat
restaurant and lounge area,
meeting rooms, and a
administrative and services area.
Lot size – 189,000 square
feet
Floor area – 122,540
square feet
Parking: 229 spaces
1,300 ADT (650 trips in / 650 trips
out)
Status:
EIR approved by the Encinitas
City Council on January 22, 1992.
Traffic
1,3001,800 ADT (650 900
trips in/650 900 trips out)
Biology
Impacts to Del Mar sand
aster.
Impacts mitigated through
transplantation to a
suitable location offsite.
2 CT 05-10
(Located northeast
of project site; east
of I-5 along
Poinsettia Lane)
Poinsettia
Single-family
Residential
Subdivision of approximately 5
acres into 29 single-family
residential lots; two open space
lots; one driveway lot.
Status:
MND – Stamped May 2, 2006
NOD May 19, 2006
Noise
Impacts from Interstate 5;
Mitigation 18’ X 18’
private rear yard, 6’ high
barrier.
Biology
No Impacts. Site
previously graded with
surrounding residential
development. No
sensitive plant species
identified on site.
3 CUP 04-05
(Located northeast
of project site;
northeast corner of
Aviara Parkway and
Poinsettia Lane)
Calvary
Chapel
26.94-acre site with a 13-acre
church campus consisting of
49,000 square feet of a multi-
purpose building and family
center.
Capacity is 1,800 persons.
Project Buildings include:
Biology
Preserves:
7.58 acres of
coastal sage scrub
1.49 acres of
southern maritime
chaparral
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Table 7-1 continued
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-19 August 2007
Site
Number
Reference/Project
Number NAME Characteristics/Status Impacts
19,000 sq. ft. two-story
preschool with 150
students
4,000 sq ft chapel building
7,000 sq ft gymnasium
13,000 sq ft youth building
6,000 sq ft adult education
building
1,049 parking spaces
Status:
MND dated September 20, 2005
NOD dated January 11, 2005
0.67 acres of
southern willow
scrub
0.60 acres of
wetland ruderal
Open Space -
Northern portion
of the site is
native habitat (8.9
acres)
4 CT 02-14; CT 02-
15; CT 03-03; CT
02-19
(Located northeast
of project site;
across I-5 and along
Palomar Airport
Road)
Bressi Ranch Project site is approximately 585
acres. The project includes 15
planning areas and 6 open space
areas.
Northern Area (150.3 acres):
(5) Industrial lots
Southern Area (434.8 acres):
(7) Residential Lots
(1) Industrial Lot
(1) Mixed Use Lot
(1) Community Facility Lot
(6) Open Space Lots
Status:
Master Plan EIR approved July 23,
2002
Biology
Impacts 30.9 acres of
Diegan coastal sage scrub
Mitigation provided at 2:1
(61.8 acres of Diegan
coastal sage scrub)
Offsite Impacts
1.85 acres riparian
scrub
0.48 acres riparian
woodland
12.9 acres Diegan
CSS
11.2 acres
Floodplain scrub
12.9 acres southern
maritime mixed
chaparral
46.8 acres of non-
native grassland
1.5 acres eucalyptus
11.3 acres of
disturbed habitat
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Table 7-1 continued
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-20 August 2007
Site
Number
Reference/Project
Number NAME Characteristics/Status Impacts
5 CT 01-09
(Located southeast
of project site; near
northeast corner of
La Costa Drive and
Rancho Santa Fe)
La Costa
Town Square
Project
Project site is approximately 81.4
acres with proposed mixed-use
retail/commercial/office/residential
development. Project includes 131
residential units; 80,000 sq. ft.
industrial space; 380,000 sq. ft.
commercial space. Approximately
5.7 acres will be protected as
onsite open space.
Status:
EIR pending
Traffic
22,800 ADT
Biology
Project site is part of the
Fieldstone Habitat
Conservation Plan (HCP).
Two small (0.003 acres
total) pooling areas were
identified.
No gnatcatchers identified
onsite.
Impacts to sensitive
species will occur.
Habitat and wildlife areas
are provided as part of
compliance with
Fieldstone HCP.
6 00-201
MUP/DR/CDP
(Located south of
project site on the
north side of La
Costa Avenue on
the northeast corner
of North Coast
Highway 101 and
La Costa Avenue)
Shoreline
Hotel, City of
Encinitas
26-unit timeshare/hotel
development and associated site
improvements for 1.81-gross acre
property zoned visitor-serving
commercial of the North 101
Corridor Specific Plan.
Status:
EIR approved by Encinitas City
Council on September 1, 2005.
Not constructed.
Visual
Highly visible coastal
bluff top; retaining wall
significant visual effect
Biology
Loss 174 sq. ft. of
disturbed coastal sage
scrub
Noise disturbance of
sensitive bird species
(nearby Least Tern and
Snowy Plovir nesting
sites)
Short term effect wetland
and upland habitat
Long term increase night
lighting and human and
pet intrusion in upland
and wetland habitat
Cultural
Possible disturbance or
destruction of unknown
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Table 7-1 continued
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-21 August 2007
Site
Number
Reference/Project
Number NAME Characteristics/Status Impacts
buried fossils during
grading and construction
Geology and Soils
Possible unstable
temporary basement
excavation slopes during
construction
Steep cut slopes
Possible structural failure
due to highly
compressible fill soils and
terrace deposits
Hydrology and Water
Quality
Negative short-term
construction erosion and
sedimentation on water
quality
Increase in urban
pollutants
Land Use and Community
Character
Inconsistent with
Encinitas General Plan
Public Safety Policy and
Resource Management
Element Policy and
Hillside/Inland Bluff
Overlay
Loss of vacant land
Noise
Possible excess noise
levels
Transportation and
Traffic
208 ADT. Improvements
to Highway 101 and La
Costa Avenue required.
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Table 7-1 continued
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-22 August 2007
Site
Number
Reference/Project
Number NAME Characteristics/Status Impacts
7 03-090
TM/MUP/DR/CDP
Coral Cove
Tentative
Map, City of
Encinitas
Subdivision of approximately 10
acres into 79 lots comprised of 69
single family residential lots, two
private street lots, and eith open
space lots to accommodate a total
of 69 units
Status:
EIR prepared for project and
certified as complete by the
Planning Commission on June 1,
2006.
Not constructed.
Land Use and Planning
Removal of three
eucalyptus trees along
Vulcan Avenue which
would not be consistent
with the vision and goals
with Corridor Specific
Plan
Aesthetic/Community
Character
Proposed road widening
would result in removal of
three large eucalyptus
trees
Biology
Indirect impacts to
sensitive nesting raptors
could occur if
construction occurs
during breeding season
Cultural Resources
Historical location of
former structure shown to
have potential for
containing significant
subsurface archaeological
deposits
Hydrology and Water
Quality
Greenhouse demolition
would occur; bare soils
would be exposed; soils
and material stockpiles
would be established;
fuels, lubricants, and solid
and liquid wastes would
be stored within active
construction areas.
Transportation and
Circulation
443 ADT; Under near
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Table 7-1 continued
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-23 August 2007
Site
Number
Reference/Project
Number NAME Characteristics/Status Impacts
term cumulative without
project traffic conditions
Vulcan/La Costa Venue
intersection would operate
at an unacceptable LOS
E; Traffic delay 4.8
seconds
Noise
Onsite noise level would
exceed 65 dB along the
western portion of the
project site
Hazards and Hazardous
Materials
Onsite soils within the
vicinity could pose a
significant threat due to
GeoCon limited pesticide
assessment; Potentially
significant hazardous
materials may result.
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-24 August 2007
Table 7-2
Cumulative Impacts To Vegetation Communities/Habitats (acres) 1
Southern
willow scrub
Southern
coastal bluff
scrub
(including
disturbed)
Diegan coastal
sage scrub
(including
disturbed)
Eucalyptus
woodland
Disturbed
habitat Total
SITE
NUMBER Name
REFERENCE/
PROJECT
NUMBER Impacted Mitigation Impacted Mitigation Impacted Mitigation Impacted Mitigation Impacted Mitigation Impacted Mitigation Proposed
Project
Ponto Beachfront
Village Vision
Plan
EIR 05-05/
GPA 05-04/
LCPA 05-01
0.04 0.12 0.1 0.3 1.2 2.4 0.3 2 21.1 2 22.7 2.81
1 City of Encinitas
Hotel Project 99-001; 04-268;
93-172 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
2 Poinsettia Single-
family Residential CT 05-10 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
3 Calvary Chapel CUP 04-05 Unk 0.67 0.0 0.0 Unk 7.58 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Unk 8.25
4 Bressi Ranch CT 02-14; CT
02-15; CT 03-03;
CT 02-19
0.08 0.08 0.0 0.0 30.9 61.8 0.0 0.0 385.0 0.0 416.0 61.9
5 La Costa Town
Square Project CT 01-09 Part of the Fieldstone HCP – impacts and mitigation are unknown.
Total 0.12 0.87 0.1 0.3 32.1 71.78 0.3 2 406.1 2 441.6 72.97
Unk = unknown 1Errors in addition due to rounding. 2 Mitigated through payment of an in lieu mitigation fee in an amount to be determined by the City Council.
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-25 August 2007
Table 7-3
Near Term (2010)
Peak Hour Intersection LOS – HCM
Without Vision Plan With Vision Plan
AM PM AM PM
Change in
Delay Intersections
Delay LOS Delay LOS Delay LOS Delay LOS AM PM
Palomar Airport Road / Avenida Encinas 31.6 C 45.4 D 31.7 C 47.0 D 0.1 1.5
Palomar Airport Road / I-5 SB Ramps 20.0 C 15.8 B 20.1 C 16.0 B 0.1 0.2
Palomar Airport Road / I-5 NB Ramps 39.4 D 32.6 C 39.9 D 33.4 C 0.5 0.8
Palomar Airport Road / Paseo Del Norte 34.5 C 40.9 D 34.6 C 41.0 D 0.1 0.1
Palomar Airport Road / Armada Drive 20.8 C 47.8 D 20.8 C 47.8 D 0.0 0.0
Palomar Airport Road / Hidden Valley Road 14.1 B 16.2 B 15.3 B 16.4 B 1.2 0.2
Palomar Airport Road / College Boulevard 35.7 D 41.1 D 35.8 D 42.0 D 0.1 0.9
Palomar Airport Road / Camino Vida Roble 30.1 C 35.0 D 30.1 C 35.0 C 0.0 0.0
Palomar Airport Road / El Camino Real 49.3 D 77.3 E 49.3 D 78.4 E 0.0 1.1
Palomar Airport Road / El Fuerte St. 91.5 F 30.3 C 92.2 F 30.4 C 0.7 0.1
Palomar Airport Road / Melrose Drive 55.0 D 50.6 D 55.2 E 50.9 D 0.2 0.3
Carlsbad Boulevard / Island Way 8.1 A 7.2 A 8.0 A 7.2 A -0.1 0.0
Carlsbad Boulevard / Breakwater Road 12.6 B 6.2 A 12.7 B 6.2 A 0.1 0.0
Carlsbad Boulevard / Poinsettia Lane 28.3 C 32.3 C 34.9 C 54.6 D 6.6 22.3
Poinsettia Lane / Avenida Encinas 32.3 C 38.6 D 34.7 C 43.1 D 2.4 4.5
Poinsettia Lane / I-5 SB Ramps 25.9 C 28.0 C 30.8 C 46.0 D 4.9 18.0
Poinsettia Lane / I-5 NB Ramps 29.9 C 28.1 C 37.0 D 35.9 D 7.1 7.8
Poinsettia Lane / Paseo Del Norte 28.0 C 35.6 D 28.9 C 40.3 D 0.9 4.7
Paseo Del Norte / Camino del las Ondas 29.9 C 24.7 C 30.9 C 26.2 C 1.0 1.5
Poinsettia Lane / Batiquitos Drive 23.4 C 23.2 C 23.0 C 23.1 C -0.4 -0.1
Poinsettia Lane / Aviara Parkway 30.2 C 33.2 C 30.1 C 33.9 C -0.1 0.7
El Camino Real / Cassia Road 21.2 C 11.2 B 22.4 C 15.2 B 1.2 4.0
El Camino Real / Camino Vida Roble 23.0 C 40.9 D 23.0 C 41.1 D 0.0 0.2
Carlsbad Boulevard / Ponto Drive 9.6 A 18.5 B 20.1 C 30.8 C 12.3 14.4
Carlsbad Boulevard / Beach Way - - - - 11.6 B 14.6 B 10.0 14.6
Carlsbad Boulevard / Avenida Encinas 13.9 B 14.2 B 18.7 B 19.6 B 4.8 5.4
Ponto Drive / Avenida Encinas 29.3 C 31.7 C 34.0 C 36.2 D 4.7 4.5
La Costa Avenue / N. Coast Highway 101 38.2 D 41.1 C 42.4 D 87.4 F 4.2 46.3
La Costa Avenue / Vulcan Avenue 98.8 F 151.8 F 216.4 F 394.4 F 117.6 242.6
La Costa Avenue / I-5 SB Ramps 25.5 C 27.6 C 25.1 C 27.2 C -0.4 -0.4
La Costa Avenue / I-5 NB Ramps 22.4 C 23.0 C 22.8 C 24.3 C 0.4 1.3
La Costa Avenue / Piraeus St. 11.6 B 11.1 B 11.6 B 11.0 B 0.0 -0.1
El Camino Real / La Costa Avenue 61.3 E 39.4 D 61.5 E 39.9 D 0.2 0.5
N. Coast Highway 101 / Leucadia Avenue 33.7 C 48.1 D 35.4 C 50.1 D 1.7 2.0
La Costa Avenue / Sheridan Road 11.0 B 16.8 C 13.2 B 23.8 C 2.2 7.0
Italic - Unsignalized Intersection Deficient intersections shown in bold.
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-26 August 2007
Table 7-4
Near Term (2010)
Peak Hour Roadway Segment LOS
2010
No Vision Plan
A.M.
2010
No Vision Plan
P.M.
2010
With Vision Plan
A.M.
2010
With Vision Plan
P.M.
Change
in V/C Location Direction
(# lanes) Capacity Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS AM PM
NB (2) 3,600 414 0.12 A 1,064 0.30 A 438 0.12 A 1,091 0.30 A 0.00 0.00 Palomar Airport
Road to Island Way SB (2) 3,600 1,004 0.28 A 1,259 0.35 A 1,048 0.29 A 1,325 0.37 A 0.01 0.02
NB (2) 3,600 409 0.11 A 1,077 0.30 A 433 0.12 A 1,104 0.31 A 0.01 0.01 Island Way to
Breakwater Road SB (2) 3,600 984 0.27 A 1,207 0.34 A 1,028 0.29 A 1,273 0.35 A 0.02 0.01
NB (2) 3,600 383 0.11 A 1,008 0.28 A 407 0.11 A 1,035 0.29 A 0.00 0.01 Breakwater Road to
Poinsettia Lane SB (2) 3,600 933 0.26 A 1,040 0.29 A 977 0.27 A 1,106 0.31 A 0.01 0.02
NB (2) 3,600 382 0.11 A 1,020 0.28 A 406 0.11 A 1,047 0.29 A 0.00 0.01 Poinsettia Lane to
Ponto Drive SB (2) 3,600 951 0.26 A 1,042 0.29 A 995 0.28 A 1,108 0.31 A 0.02 0.02
NB (2) 3,600 979 0.27 A 1,061 0.29 A 1,187 0.33 A 1,296 0.36 A 0.06 0.07 Ponto Drive to
Beach Way SB (2) 3,600 1,109 0.31 A 1,275 0.35 A 1,333 0.37 A 1,611 0.45 A 0.06 0.10
NB (2) 3,600 769 0.21 A 873 0.24 A 850 0.23 A 990 0.28 A 0.02 0.04 Beach Way to
Avenida Encinas SB (2) 3,600 1,172 0.33 A 1,189 0.33 A 1,241 0.34 A 1,288 0.36 A 0.01 0.03
NB (2) 3,600 1,003 0.28 A 1,057 0.29 A 1,223 0.34 A 1,387 0.39 A 0.06 0.10 Avenida Encinas to
La Costa Avenue SB (2) 3,600 1,356 0.38 A 1,381 0.38 A 1,553 0.43 A 1,599 0.44 A 0.05 0.06
NB (2) 3,600 461 0.13 A 1,203 0.33 A 521 0.14 A 1,294 0.36 A 0.01 0.03
Carlsbad
Blvd.
La Costa Avenue to
Leucadia Boulevard SB (2) 3,600 1,832 0.51 A 808 0.22 A 1,887 0.52 A 869 0.24 A 0.01 0.02
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Table 7-4 continued
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-27 August 2007
2010
No Vision Plan
A.M.
2010
No Vision Plan
P.M.
2010
With Vision Plan
A.M.
2010
With Vision Plan
P.M.
Change
in V/C Location Direction
(# lanes) Capacity Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS AM PM
NB (2) 3,600 412 0.11 A 493 0.14 A 414 0.12 A 495 0.14 A 0.01 0.00 Cannon Road to
Palomar Airport
Road SB (2) 3,600 253 0.07 A 649 0.18 A 255 0.07 A 653 0.18 A 0.00 0.00
NB (1) 1,800 210 0.12 A 580 0.32 A 213 0.12 A 583 0.32 A 0.00 0.00 Palomar Airport
Road to Poinsettia
Lane SB (1) 1,800 442 0.24 A 367 0.20 A 445 0.24 A 372 0.20 A 0.00 0.00
NB (2) 3,600 552 0.15 A 594 0.17 A 609 0.17 A 654 0.18 A 0.02 0.01 Poinsettia Lane to
Windrose Circle SB 2) 3,600 392 0.11 A 615 0.17 A 450 0.13 A 702 0.20 A 0.02 0.03
NB (1) 1,800 255 0.14 A 339 0.19 A 430 0.24 A 604 0.34 A 0.10 0.15
Avenida
Encinas
Windrose Circle
to Carlsbad
Boulevard SB (1) 1,800 294 0.16 A 297 0.17 A 457 0.25 A 468 0.26 A 0.09 0.09
NB (2) 3,600 1,339 0.37 A 591 0.16 A 1,353 0.38 A 606 0.17 A 0.01 0.01 College
Boulevard
El Camino Real to
Palomar Airport
Road SB (2) 3,600 451 0.13 A 1,252 0.35 A 466 0.13 A 1,275 0.35 A 0.00 0.00
NB (2) 3,600 980 0.27 A 450 0.13 A 980 0.27 A 450 0.13 A 0.00 0.00 Palomar Airport
Road to Poinsettia
Lane SB (2) 3,600 273 0.08 A 1,008 0.28 A 273 0.08 A 1,008 0.28 A 0.00 0.00
NB (2) 3,600 709 0.20 A 583 0.16 A 714 0.20 A 591 0.16 A 0.00 0.00
Aviara
Parkway Poinsettia Lane to
Batiquitos Drive SB (2) 3,600 362 0.10 A 958 0.27 A 367 0.10 A 963 0.27 A 0.00 0.00
NB (2) 3,600 765 0.21 A 830 0.23 A 767 0.21 A 833 0.23 A 0.00 0.00 Cannon Road to
Palomar Airport
Road SB (2) 3,600 346 0.10 A 849 0.24 A 349 0.10 A 853 0.24 A 0.00 0.00
NB (1) 1,800 739 0.41 A 620 0.34 A 739 0.41 A 620 0.34 A 0.00 0.00
Paseo del
Norte Camino Del Parque
to Camino del Las
Ondas SB (1) 1,800 330 0.18 A 1,027 0.57 A 330 0.18 A 1,027 0.57 A 0.00 0.00
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Table 7-4 continued
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-28 August 2007
2010
No Vision Plan
A.M.
2010
No Vision Plan
P.M.
2010
With Vision Plan
A.M.
2010
With Vision Plan
P.M.
Change
in V/C Location Direction
(# lanes) Capacity Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS AM PM
NB (1) 1,800 90 0.05 A 34 0.02 A 90 0.05 A 34 0.02 A 0.00 0.00 Paseo del
Norte
Camino del Las
Ondas to Poinsettia
Lane SB (1) 1,800 28 0.02 A 109 0.06 A 28 0.02 A 109 0.06 A 0.00 0.00
NB (3) 5,400 2,444 0.45 A 1,742 0.32 A 2,444 0.45 A 1,742 0.32 A 0.00 0.00 Faraday Avenue to
Palomar Airport
Road SB (3) 5,400 1,600 0.30 A 2,221 0.41 A 1,600 0.30 A 2,221 0.41 A 0.00 0.00
NB (3) 5,400 1,807 0.33 A 1,557 0.29 A 1,816 0.34 A 1,567 0.29 A 0.01 0.00 Palomar Airport
Road to Camino
Vida Roble SB (3) 5,400 1,329 0.25 A 1,820 0.34 A 1,339 0.25 A 1,834 0.34 A 0.00 0.00
NB (2) 3,600 2,145 0.60 A 1,142 0.32 A 2,154 0.60 A 1,152 0.32 A 0.00 0.00 Camino Vida Roble
to Cassia Road SB (3) 5,400 1,701 0.32 A 1,268 0.23 A 1,710 0.32 A 1,278 0.24 A 0.00 0.01
NB (3) 5,400 2,377 0.44 A 2,251 0.42 A 2,377 0.44 A 2,251 0.42 A 0.00 0.00
El
Camino
Real
Cassia Road to La
Costa Avenue SB (2) 3,600 2,130 0.59 A 2,145 0.60 A 2,130 0.59 A 2,145 0.60 A 0.00 0.00
EB (3) 5,400 598 0.11 A 1,081 0.20 A 609 0.11 A 1,093 0.20 A 0.00 0.00 Avenida Encinas
to I-5 WB (3) 5,400 879 0.16 A 1,082 0.20 A 909 0.17 A 1,126 0.21 A 0.01 0.01
EB (3) 5,400 2,658 0.49 A 2,037 0.38 A 2,660 0.49 A 2,041 0.38 A 0.00 0.00
Palomar
Airport
Road I-5 to Paseo del
Norte WB (3) 5,400 1,198 0.22 A 2,993 0.55 A 1,202 0.22 A 2,998 0.56 A 0.00 0.01
EB (3) 5,400 2,629 0.49 A 1,613 0.30 A 2,629 0.49 A 1,614 0.30 A 0.00 0.00 Paseo del Norte to
Armada Drive WB (3) 5,400 1,179 0.22 A 2,957 0.55 A 1,180 0.22 A 2,958 0.55 A 0.00 0.00
EB (3) 5,400 2,458 0.46 A 1,923 0.36 A 2,458 0.46 A 1,924 0.36 A 0.00 0.00
Palomar
Airport
Road Armada Drive to
Hidden Valley Road WB (3) 5,400 1,557 0.29 A 2,588 0.48 A 1,558 0.29 A 2,589 0.48 A 0.00 0.00
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Table 7-4 continued
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-29 August 2007
2010
No Vision Plan
A.M.
2010
No Vision Plan
P.M.
2010
With Vision Plan
A.M.
2010
With Vision Plan
P.M.
Change
in V/C Location Direction
(# lanes) Capacity Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS AM PM
EB (3) 5,400 2,364 0.44 A 1,799 0.33 A 2,382 0.44 A 1,820 0.34 A 0.00 0.01 Hidden Valley Road
to College Boulevard WB (3) 5,400 1,565 0.29 A 2,467 0.46 A 1,586 0.29 A 2,498 0.46 A 0.00 0.00
EB (3) 5,400 1,703 0.32 A 1,361 0.25 A 1,703 0.32 A 1,362 0.25 A 0.00 0.00 College Boulevard to
Camino Vida Roble WB (3) 5,400 1,136 0.21 A 1,585 0.29 A 1,137 0.21 A 1,586 0.29 A 0.00 0.00
EB (3) 5,400 1,273 0.24 A 1,360 0.25 A 1,273 0.24 A 1,361 0.25 A 0.00 0.00 Camino Vida Roble
to El Camino Real WB (3) 5,400 1,354 0.25 A 1,140 0.21 A 1,355 0.25 A 1,141 0.21 A 0.00 0.00
EB (3) 5,400 1,818 0.34 A 2,874 0.53 A 1,827 0.34 A 2,884 0.53 A 0.00 0.00 El Camino Real to
El Fuerte Street WB (3) 5,400 3,115 0.58 A 1,751 0.32 A 3,125 0.58 A 1,766 0.33 A 0.00 0.01
EB (3) 5,400 1,368 0.25 A 3,095 0.57 A 1,377 0.26 A 3,105 0.58 A 0.01 0.01
Palomar
Airport
Road
El Fuerte Street to
Melrose Drive WB (3) 5,400 3,146 0.58 A 1,691 0.31 A 3,156 0.58 A 1,706 0.32 A 0.00 0.01
EB (2) 3,600 196 0.05 A 420 0.12 A 380 0.11 A 627 0.17 A 0.06 0.05 Carlsbad
Boulevard to
Avenida Encinas WB (2) 3,600 339 0.09 A 483 0.13 A 519 0.14 A 752 0.21 A 0.05 0.08
EB (2) 3,600 660 0.18 A 1,006 0.28 A 894 0.25 A 1,265 0.35 A 0.07 0.07 Avenida Encinas
to I-5 WB (2) 3,600 770 0.21 A 943 0.26 A 1,001 0.28 A 1,289 0.36 A 0.07 0.10
EB (2) 3,600 1,334 0.37 A 1,603 0.45 A 1,402 0.39 A 1,679 0.47 A 0.02 0.02 I-5 to Paseo del
Norte WB (2) 3,600 1,254 0.35 A 1,480 0.41 A 1,329 0.37 A 1,592 0.44 A 0.02 0.03
EB (2) 3,600 965 0.27 A 1,147 0.32 A 1,015 0.28 A 1,203 0.33 A 0.01 0.02
Poinsettia
Lane
Paseo Del Norte to
Batiquitos Drive WB (2) 3,600 951 0.26 A 1,093 0.30 A 1,006 0.28 A 1,175 0.33 A 0.02 0.03
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Table 7-4 continued
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-30 August 2007
2010
No Vision Plan
A.M.
2010
No Vision Plan
P.M.
2010
With Vision Plan
A.M.
2010
With Vision Plan
P.M.
Change
in V/C Location Direction
(# lanes) Capacity Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS Volume V/C LOS AM PM
EB (2) 3,600 1,065 0.30 A 855 0.24 A 1,116 0.31 A 911 0.25 A 0.01 0.01 Batiquitos Drive to
Aviara Parkway WB (2) 3,600 651 0.18 A 1,311 0.36 A 706 0.20 A 1,394 0.39 A 0.02 0.03
EB (2) 3,600 429 0.12 A 427 0.12 A 475 0.13 A 478 0.13 A 0.01 0.01
Poinsettia
Lane Aviara Parkway to
El Camino Real WB (2) 3,600 375 0.10 A 700 0.19 A 425 0.12 A 775 0.22 A 0.02 0.03
EB (1) 1,800 551 0.31 A 737 0.41 A 692 0.38 A 893 0.50 A 0.07 0.01 Carlsbad Boulevard
to Vulcan Avenue WB (1) 1,800 655 0.36 A 632 0.35 A 815 0.45 A 872 0.48 A 0.08 0.14
EB (1) 1,800 715 0.40 A 809 0.45 A 856 0.48 A 965 0.54 A 0.08 0.09 Vulcan Avenue
to I-5 WB (1) 1,800 887 0.49 A 1,327 0.74 C 1,047 0.58 A 1,567 0.87 D 0.09 0.13
EB (2) 3,600 1,583 0.44 A 1,562 0.43 A 1,620 0.45 A 1,603 0.45 A 0.01 0.02 I-5 to Piraeus Street
WB (2) 3,600 1,465 0.41 A 1,518 0.42 A 1,505 0.42 A 1,578 0.44 A 0.01 0.02
EB (2) 3,600 1,578 0.44 A 1,455 0.40 A 1,615 0.45 A 1,496 0.42 A 0.01 0.02 Piraeus Street to
El Camino Real WB (2) 3,600 1,337 0.37 A 1,136 0.32 A 1,377 0.38 A 1,196 0.33 A 0.01 0.01
EB (2) 3,600 542 0.15 A 981 0.27 A 579 0.16 A 1,022 0.28 A 0.01 0.01
La Costa
Ave.
East of El Camino
Real WB (2) 3,600 923 0.26 A 722 0.20 A 963 0.27 A 782 0.22 A 0.01 0.02
NB (1) 1,800 102 0.06 A 150 0.08 A 243 0.13 A 307 0.17 A 0.11 0.09 Ponto
Drive
Carlsbad Boulevard
to Avenida Encinas SB (1) 1,800 9 0.00 A 221 0.12 A 152 0.08 A 435 0.24 A 0.08 0.12
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-31 August 2007
Figure 7-1
Cumulative Projects Map
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\
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Project Name Project Reference No.
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Hole! PrOJOCI. C,1y of Enemas 99-001: 04-268; 93-172
Pomsetba Sinele-f amity Res CT 05-10
Catva,y Chopel CUP04-05
Bressi Ranch CT 02-14;
CT 02-15;
CT 03-03;
CT 02-19
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5 La Cosa Town Square Pro,ect CT 01-09
6 Shoreline Resort, City of EncWl1tas 00-207
C«at Cove TM, City of Encinitas 03-090
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PROJECT i; ---. · · '~\ . ~J ·· . · ·" . ,· w:.. , ,-i-._. -,;--.• ~ \' . ' : . : .-. \~ -·"' f ,, . . ::. . • . . . .. :
LOCATION lt ,\. . ':-'. . " '-. . ~: :::, -· ~:::;:,,_ '.'~-~-: "-\L .,: .. -~-, ~ . ;! ,,. .../,_._. . . I
,..
CONSULTING
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[IMl'OIWNfUI trc>,K1
CD
Not to Sule
·:{_; \.\ ---",_ ... . '~. " _=:--~·:: ,_ \ .. ./ . .. -
Bat1q111to'.,
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Cumulative Projects Map
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR
' ~.;:I': ..
-,,,. ... ... ~
--~
·• ... .. ,:, .,,. 'ot\'lle • e,os\'3 · . \.,'3 _ . ·5~~
• ~a~e
•• J, c,7>~ ti .
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. (:-~ _,
Figure 7-1
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-33 August 2007
Figure 7-2
Near-Term (2010) ADT Volumes
-----.. .. ------..
--.. -.. .. ----.. .. ------------
LEGEND:
Breakwater Rd. 6,097·•---
24,800--------
Avenida Encinas
X,XXX Average Dally Traffic
0
NOTTO SCALE
C □N9ULTINO
251 DI 951/l 951 &•040 ... E°",ro,nmentll irriPlct
. .. ~ .-·
__ .\.····
1,400
12500 i IV .
Near Term (2010) ADT Volumes
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR
67,100 61 oo
19,300
Figure 7-2
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-35 August 2007
Figure 7-3
Near-Term (2010) with Vision Plan ADT Volumes
------------------
-------... -----------
B,600
.J>' ...•••• •····
~ ... ·· .. ... ··
31,622 • • • • • • • ••••••
Avenida Encinas
2,461 19,603
LEGEND:
x,xxx Average Dally Traffic
0
NOTTO SCALE
CONSULTINB
2S!0l %l/l 9Slax()(l.a, Em11ronme11101 .,,~,ct
50
Near Term (2010) With Vision Plan ADT Volumes
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR
Figure 7-3
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-37 August 2007
Figure 7-4
Near-Term (2010) AM Level of Service
LEGEND
• Acceptable (LOS A or B)
Q · Marginal (LOS C or D)
• • Failure (LOS E or F)
CCN!!IULTING
2510!9~ 1/19510042.11 [l'IY1f0f'Vne,U•llffloKt
Near Term (2010) AM Level of Service
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR
Figure 7-4
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-39 August 2007
Figure 7-5
Near-Term (2010) PM Level of Service
LEGEND
• -Acceptable (LOS A or B)
Q -Marginal (LOS C or D)
• -Failure (LOS E or F)
0
NOT TO SCALE
CONSU LTING
2!>1019~1/1951 nOAJ.ei
[nw.-orwnental Impact
Near Term (2010) PM Level of Service
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR
Figure 7-5
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-41 August 2007
Figure 7-6
Near-Term (2010) with Vision Plan – AM Level of Service
LEGEND
• -Acceptable (LOS A or B)
Q -Marginal (LOS C or D)
• -Failure (LOS E or F)
0
Mn TTn c::.rtt.1 C
CON SULTING
251019Sl/19Slh.0U 11
[1'!¥11onmtt1t,J ll'rnct
Near Term (2010) With Vision Plan AM Level of Service
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR
Figure 7-6
ANALYSIS OF LONG-TERM EFFECTS
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 7-43 August 2007
Figure 7-7
Near-Term (2010) with Vision Plan - PM Level of Service
LEGEND
• Acceptable (LOS A or B)
Q · Marginal (LOS C or D)
• -Failure (LOS E or F)
CONSULTING
25101951/l~lt•Oot5 •
[1'¥!f0Nnlftl .. lmp«t
Near Term (2010) With Vision Plan PM Level of Service
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR
Figure 7-7
REFERENCES
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 8-1 August 2007
8.0 REFERENCES
8.1 Persons Responsible for Preparation of the EIR
This Environmental Impact Report was prepared for the City of Carlsbad Planning
Department. The following professional staff participated in the preparation of the EIR.
Lead Agency
City of Carlsbad
Planning Department
1635 Faraday Avenue
Carlsbad, California 92008
Christer Westman – Project Manager/Senior Planner
Bob Johnson – Traffic Division
City of Carlsbad
Department of Housing and Redevelopment
2965 Roosevelt Street, Suite B
Carlsbad, California 92008
Deborah Fountain – Director
Preparers of the EIR
RBF Consulting
9755 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suite 100
San Diego, California 92124
Alex Jewell, AICP EIR Project Manager
Nicole Marotz, AICP Environmental Planner/Lead EIR Preparer
Monica Kling Environmental Analyst
Danielle Putnam Senior Planner
Kimberly Butts CADD Designer
Liz Sears Graphics
Jonathon Henderson CADD Drafter
Richard Hendrickson GIS
Hilary Ellis Word Processor
REFERENCES
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 8-2 August 2007
Persons and Organizations Contacted
RBF Consulting
Hydrology and Water Quality
Marc Schulte
Richard Lucera
Scott Cartwright
Traffic Analysis
Dawn Wilson, P.E.
Stephanie Cheng
Tim Strow
Noise and Air Quality Analyses
Eddie Torres
Maria Cadiz
Phase I Environmental Site Assessment
Richard Beck
Kristen Hurley
Biological Resources Assessment
Derek Langsford
Seekey Cacciatore
Helix Environmental Planning
8100 La Mesa Boulevard, Suite 150
La Mesa, CA 91941-6452
Geotechnical Consultants
Barry Bevier
Scott Rugg
Kleinfelder, Inc.
5015 Shoreham Place
San Diego, CA 92122
Cultural Resources Analysis
Brian F. Smith
Larry Pierson
Brian F. Smith and Associates
14010 Poway Road
Poway, CA 92064
REFERENCES
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 8-3 August 2007
8.2 Technical Reports and Supporting Documents
The following documents associated with the Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR are
available for review at the City of Carlsbad, Department of Planning, 1635 Faraday Avenue,
Carlsbad, California, 92008.
Draft Environmental Initial Study for the Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan - City of
Carlsbad Department of Planning, Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan. March 1, 2005.
Notice of Preparation of an Environmental Impact Report and Notice of Scoping Meeting for
the Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan (EIR 05-05), City of Carlsbad. Filed June 9, 2006.
Technical Reports Prepared for the Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR
Air Quality Conformity Assessment. Prepared by RBF Consulting. November 2006.
(Included as Section 5.1 of this EIR).
An Archaeological Survey for the Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan Project. Prepared by
Brian F. Smith & Associates. July 31, 2006.
Biological Technical Report. Prepared by Helix Environmental. November 2006.
Geologic Hazards Evaluation. Prepared by Kleinfelder, Inc. July 20, 2006. Revised March
2007.
Acoustical Site Assessment. Prepared by RBF Consulting. November 2006. (Included as
Section 5.5 of this EIR).
Phase I Environmental Site Assessment. Prepared by RBF Consulting. July 13, 2006.
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan (Draft). Prepared by RBF Consulting. May 2005.
Storm Water Mitigation Plan and Preliminary Hydrology Study. Prepared by RBF
Consulting. October 30, 2006. Revised March 20, 2007.
Traffic Impact Analysis. Prepared by RBF Consulting. November 2006. Revised March
2007.
Year 2006 Protocol Coastal California Gnatcatcher Survey Report. Helix Environmental
Planning, Inc. October 10, 2006.
Technical Reports Prepared for the Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan
Cultural Resource Constraints Study of the Ponto Specific Plan. Prepared by RECON. June
17, 2003.
Existing Conditions Report for the Ponto Land Use Strategy and Vision Project. Prepared by
RECON. December 8, 2003.
Traffic Constraints Analysis. Prepared by RBF Consulting. 2005.
Wetland Delineation Report for the Ponto Land Use Strategy and Vision Project. Prepared
by RECON. December 8, 2003.
REFERENCES
Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan EIR City of Carlsbad
Final EIR 8-4 August 2007
Other References
Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan, McClellan-Palomar Airport. Carlsbad, California.
Amended October 4, 2004.
City of Carlsbad Emergency Operations Plan. Prepared by City of Carlsbad. July 9, 2003.
City of Carlsbad Local Coastal Program. Prepared by the City of Carlsbad. 1996.
City of Carlsbad Local Facilities Management Plan (Zone 9). 1989. Updated September
1993.
City of Carlsbad Local Facilities Management Plan (Zone 22). 1988. Updated August 1,
1997.
City of Carlsbad. Municipal Code, Title 21: Zoning Ordinance.
City of Carlsbad. Scenic Corridor Guidelines. July 1, 1988.
City of Carlsbad. Landscape Manual. Adopted November 13, 1990.
Final Environmental Impact Report for the Catarini / Holly Springs Developments (EIR 02-
20). Prepared by Mooney & Associates. October 2004.
Five-Year Implementation Plan – Carlsbad Housing and Redevelopment Commission, South
Carlsbad Coastal Redevelopment Area. Adopted July 19, 2005.
Local Coastal Program – Mello II Segment. City of Carlsbad. 1996. Amended 2003.
North 101 Corridor Specific Plan. City of Encinitas. May 21, 1997.
Notice of Intent to Adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration. Prepared by the City of
Carlsbad. Published March 18, 2005.
Open Space and Conservation Resource Management Plan. City of Carlsbad. Prepared by
Wallace, Roberts & Todd. June 1992.
Poinsettia Properties Specific Plan. November 27, 1998.
Poinsettia Shores Master Plan. October 20, 1993.
Redevelopment Plan - South Carlsbad Coastal Redevelopment Project. Prepared by Carlsbad
Housing and Redevelopment Commission. February 4, 2000.
Robertson Ranch Master Plan Final Program EIR. Prepared by BRG Consulting, Inc. April
2006.
San Diego Coastal State Park System General Plan – South Carlsbad State Beach. June
1984.
South Carlsbad Coastal Redevelopment Area (SCCRA) Redevelopment Plan. July 2000.