HomeMy WebLinkAbout3190; Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment; Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment & Mass Grading; 2000-03-01ADDENDUM
FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
RANCHO SANTA FE ROAD REALIGNMENT AND
MASS GRADING
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I TO THE
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P SCH # 90010850
March 2000
Prepared by:
CITY OF CARLSBAD
1635 Faraday Avenue
Carlsbad, California 92009
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.. TABLE OF CONTENTS
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1.0 INTRODUCTION ............................................... 1-1
1.1 Purpose of the Addendum ..................................... 1-1
1.2 Content and Format of the Addendum .......................... 1-2
2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ........................................ 2-1
2.2 Location and Setting ......................................... 2-1
2.3 Project Characteristics ........................................ 2-1
2.3.1 Phase 1 and 2: Roadway Realignment ..................... 2-3
2.3.2 Phase 2: Bridge Improvements ........................... 2-5
2.3.3 Project Construction ................................... 2-5
2.4 Measures Included to Avoid Environmental Impacts ............... 2-6
2.1 Purpose .................................................... 2-1
.............................................. 3.0 DETERMINATION 3-1
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................................................. 4.0 RATIONALE 4-1
4.1 AirQuality 4-2
4.3 Water Resources 4-3
4.4 Biological Resources 4-4
4.5 Noise 4-6
4.6 Light and Glare 4-7
4.7 LandUse 4-7
4.8 PublicService 4-8
4.9 Utilities 4-8
4.2 Earth Resources ............................................... 4-2
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4.10 Landform Alteration/Visual Quality ............................. 4-8
4.11 CulturaVHistoric Resources ................................... 4-9
4.14 Growth Inducement ........................................ 4-10
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......................................... 4.12 Traffic/Circulation 4-9
4.13 Cumulative Effects 4-10
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page No. Section
5.0 MITIGATION, MONITORING AND
REPORTING PROGRAM (MMRP) ................................ 5-1
................................................... 6.0 REFERENCES 6-1
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1 Limits of Gradincicinity Map ................................ 2-2
Figure 2 Final Alignment ............................................. 2-4
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SECTION 1.0
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Purpose of the Addendum -
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In 1992, the City of Carlsbad (the City) approved the preliminary alignment for the Rancho
Santa Fe Road Realignment and Mass Grading project. Approval of the project was based on
the certified Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) - Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and
Mass Grading (SCH #90010850) dated April 3, 1992. This EIR is available for review at the
City of Carlsbad.
The City project approved in 1992 provided for realignment and construction of Rancho
Santa Fe Road and mass grading of 448 acres within an area in eastern Carlsbad. The project
evaluated in the EIR addressed relocation of existing Rancho Santa Fe Road easterly to what
was referred to as the ‘Canyon Alignment,” replacing the bridge over San Marcos Creek, and
expansion of the road into a six-lane arterial between La Costa Avenue and Melrose Drive as
called for in the Circulation Element of the City’s General Plan.
The project evaluated in the EIR set the preliminary alignment and limits of grading for the
roadway and bridge replacement. The City has now completed Final Alignment Studies for
the roadway realignment as well as the bridge replacement which differ slightly from the
preliminary alignment and bridge replacement evaluated in the EIR. The City desires to
document the Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment and bridge replacement.
This Addendum fulfills this need and conforms to the provisions of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and CEQA Guidelines, Section 15164, providing for the
preparation of an Addendum. The CEQA Guidelines allow the preparation of an Addendum
to an EIR under the following circumstances:
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Only minor technical changes or additions are necessary to make the.EIR under - consideration adequate;
2. The changes and additions to the EIR do not raise important new issues about
significant effects on the environment; and e
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preparation of a subsequent EIR have occurred.
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Section 1.0 Introduction
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1.2 Content and Format of the Addendum
This addendum includes the following:
Section 1 .O, Introduction: Provides an Introduction to and purpose of the Addendum.
Section 2.0, Project Description: Provides a description of the proposed Final Alignment
Studies for the roadway realignment as well as the bridge replacement.
Section 3.0, Determination: CEQA Guidelines Sections 15162 through 15164 set forth the
criteria for determining the appropriate environmental documentation, if any, to be
completed when there is a pre-existing adopted EIR covering the project. This section
addresses the criteria provided in CECA Guidelines, Section 15162(a) and 15163, and
provides a conclusion statement as to the basis for preparing an Addendum to the
existing Final EIR pursuant to CEaA Guidelines Section 15164.
Section 4.0, Rationale: This section addresses environmental resource areas and provides
discussion as to why the proposed project would not create new significant impacts
or increase the severity of impacts identified for environmental issues addressed in the
certified Final EIR. The following resource areas are addressed: Air Quality, Earth
Resources, Water Resources, Biological Resources, Noise, Light and Glare, Land Use,
Public Services, Utilities, Landform Alteration /Visual Quality, Cultural/Historic
Resources, Traffic/Circulation, Cumulative Impacts and Growth Inducement.
Section 5.0, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Incorporated into the Project:
This section presents mitigation measures presented in the Final EIR that are
necessary to accommodate the project changes addressed in this Addendum.
Technical Studies: The following separate technical studies have been prepared Eor the Final
Alignment Studies for the roadway alignment as well as the bridge replacement:
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Agra Environmental, 1998. Geotechncial Study.
Dudek & Associates, March 24, 1997. Water Quality Study Rancho Santa Fe
Bridge Replacement Project.
0 Dudek & Associates, March 25,1997. VisualAssessment ofRancho Santa Fe Road
Bridge Replacement.
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Section 1.0 Introduction
Dudek & Associates, April 7, 1997. Phase 1 Environmental Assessment Rancho
Dudek & Associates, January 12,2000. Floodplain Evaluation Report Rancho Santa
Santa Fe Bridge Replacement.
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Fe Bridge Replacement Project.
Dudek & Associates, January, 2000. Acoustical Assessment Report Rancho Santa
Fe Bridge Replacement Project.
Dudek &Associates, February, 2000. Biological Resources Report for Rancho Santa
Gallegos & Associates, February, 2000. Cultural Resources Report for Rancho
Fe Roadway Realignment and Bridge Replacement Project.
Santa Fe Roadway Realignment and Bridge Replacement Project.
These technical studies are incorporated into this Addendum by reference and are available
for review at the City.
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2.1 Purpose
As discussed in the EIR, the proposed roadway realignment, widening and bridge replacement
improvements are necessary to implement the transportation requirements of the City of
Carlsbad General Plan. Community benefits from this project will include reduced
congestion, improved traffic flow and increased safety for travelers on the roadway.
Additionally, this road realignment will provide a vital link in the regions roadway network,
Increasing the capacity of the roadway would bring levels of service at intersections in the
project vicinity to acceptable levels and improve air quality by reducing traffic congestion.
The project will also involve replacement of the existing bridge over San Marcos Creek which
is currently hydraulically inadequate and cannot pass the 100-year storm without becoming
submerged.
2.2 Location and Setting
Rancho Santa Fe Road would be widened and realigned from two lanes to an ultimate six
lane prime arterial roadway from approximately 100 feet south of the La Costa Avenue/
Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection to approximately 100 feet north of the Melrose
Drive/Rancho Santa Fe Road within the City of Carlsbad. Figure 1 illustrates the preliminary
alignment evaluated in the EIR and the Final Alignment evaluated in this Addendum. As
illustrated in Figure I, the Final Alignment Studies and associated limits of grading for the
roadway realignment as well as bridge replacement are substantially in conformance with the
preliminary alignment and bridge replacement evaluated in the EIR.
2.3 Project Characteristics
The City intends to construct the project in two phases. Phase 1 will consist of the
realignment of Rancho Santa Fe Road south of the San Marcos Bridge crossing. Phase 2 will
consist of the bridge replacement and intersection improvements north of the bridge.
As a part of the Final Alignment Studies, the roadway would be widened at the locations
anticipated in the EIR and no substantial changes to the preliminary alignment or permanent
limits of grading are proposed as a part of the Final Alignment Studies.
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FIGURE Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Mass Grading - EIR Addendum
limits of Grading I Vicinity Map
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Section 2.0 Project Description
The Final Alignment Studies configuration illustrated in Figure 1 represents a refinement of
the preliminary alignment to accommodate specific grading and alignment design developed
for the Final Alignment Studies. As a result, some minor modifications to the area of
disturbance from that addressed in the EIR to accommodate temporary construction
activities, and improvements to existing roads are necessary to implement the Final
Alignment Studies. As shown in Figure 1) the Final Alignment Studies extend beyond the
limits of grading identified in the EIR at the Melrose Drive/Rancho Santa Fe Road
intersection as well as the southeastern border south of Questhaven. The Final Alignment
Studies also incorporate some roadway work south of the Rancho Santa Fe Road/La Costa
Avenue intersection, Questhaven Road and La Costa Meadows Avenue that is not covered
by the EIR. The area of disturbance in the vicinity of the Melrose/Rancho Santa Fe
intersection from that identified in the EIR is necessary to accommodate temporary
construction staging areas, further.refine the location of the Melrose/Rancho Santa Fe Road
intersection as required by the EIR, as well as provide a connection with the Rancho Santa
Fe Road alignment and widening to be built by the City of San Marcos. Work to be
completed south of the La Costa Avenue/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection would consist
of connection with the previously widened portions of Rancho Santa Fe Road and would not
represent an expansion of the capacity of the roadway from that anticipated in the EIR. The
increase in the limits of grading for Questhaven Road and La Costa Meadows Avenue is
necessary to accommodate turning lanes at the intersections with Rancho Santa Fe Road and
no increase to the capacity or alignment of these roadways is proposed.
2.3.1 Phase 1 and 2: Roadwav Realianment
As shown in Figure 2, the Final Alignment Studies include specifics regarding grading
including location and size of manufactured slopes. The realigned Rancho Santa Fe Road
would be constructed to the full width on the east side of the median, with sidewalks, curb
and gutter, and street lights from the bridge to Melrose Drive. The west side of the roadway
will be constructed with 32 feet of paving adjacent to the median curb. The Final Alignment
Studies also include drainage facilities and drainage outlets to be constructed as a part of the
project.
As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the Final Alignment Studies also include a configuration and
specific grading plans for the Melrose Drive/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection. The EIR
required that the City finalize this intersection con€iguration, prior to construction. As
shown in Figure 1) the final alignment intersection configuration conforms with the
preliminary alignment anticipated by the City as a part of the EIR.
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EXHIBIT Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Mass Grading - EIR Addendum
Final Alignment
I Section 2.0 Project Description
- 2.3.2 Phase 2: Bridae Improvements
- The EIR identified the location and limits of grading for replacement of the bridge over San
Marcos Creek. The proposed final alignment bridge replacement would conform with the
location and limits of grading evaluated in the 1992 EIR.
The Final Alignment Studies provide details necessary to construct the bridge replacement
that were not identified in the preliminary alignment evaluated in the 1992 EIR. As shown
in Figure 2, under the final alignment, the bridge would consist of six lanes. The span over
San Marcos Creek would extend for approximately 375 feet and would range in height from
15 to 20 feet from the creek bottom to the bottom of the bridge. The bridge would be
supported by manufactured fill slopes at the northern and southern termini of the bridge.
A total of twelve piers would support the bridge span. Each pier would be constructed by
excavating a pit and using driven iron piers to form and cast each individual concrete pier.
Following construction OF the piers, the excavation area would be refilled and returned to
original grade. Each pier would include 4'xQ columns and 12Ix12' footings.
2.3.3 Project Construction
The EIR identified construction activities necessary to complete grading for the roadway.
The EIR identified construction staging areas as well as locations for blasting operations.
Construction activities and equipment for the Final Alignment Studies would conform with
that anticipated by the EIR. As required by the EIR, the proposed earthwork will be balanced
between cut and fill. The quantity of dirt and rocked moved within the project construction
area would not exceed that evaluated by the EIR. Staging and blasting areas anticipated to
be used during construction are included in the limits of grading shown in Figure 2 and are
consistent with that anticipated by the EIR.
Construction of the project is scheduled to begin in 2001 fiscal year. Construction activities
will begin with Phase 1 portion of the project. Construction OF Phase 1 will take
approximately eighteen months. Construction of the Phase 2 portion of the project is
expected to begin in 2002 and will take approximately 18 months.
As required in the EIR, in association with completion of Phases 1 and 2 segments of the
realigned roadway, those portions of the existing Rancho Santa Fe Road that are no longer
required as roads will be vacated. Figures 1 and 2 illustrate the roadway removal that will
occur during construction. As shown inFigure 1, the area of roadway to be vacated conforms
with that evaluated in the EIR. - VI March2000 1576-1 7
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2.4 Measures Included to Avoid Environmental Impacts
The City has incorporated as part of its proposed Final Alignment Studies a number of
measures to reduce or avoid potential environmental impacts associated with construction
and operations of the proposed project. All measures required for the roadway by the EIR as
well as measures recommended by subsequent technical studies have been incorporated into
the project design. These measures are considered part of the project and are summarized
below:
Air Quality
Measures incorporated into the project to minimize project-related impact to air quality
associated with construction include:
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Using adequate water and/or other dust palliatives on all disturbed areas.
Washing down or sweeping streets from which construction access is taken to
remove dirt carried from the new alignment to the existing roadway to keep
vehicles from pulverizing the dirt into fine particles.
Terminating soil excavation, clearing or grading when wind speeds exceed 25 mph
for an hourly average.
Coverindtarping all vehicles hauling dirt or spoils on public roadways unless
additional moisture is added to prevent material blow-off during transport.
Requiring low-NO,-emission tuneups for all on-site construction equipment at a
minimum of every ninety (90) days.
Providing rideshare incentives for construction personnel.
Minimizing obstruction of through traffic lanes from construction equipment or
activities.
Prohibiting engine idling while waiting to load or unload if the expected wait
exceeds ten (10) minutes.
ScheduIing partial or full street closures to off-peak traffic hours.
The Contractor will perform street sweeping should silt be carried over to
adjacent public thoroughfares.
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Section 2.0 Project Description
During construction, the City will require the contractor to:
-- use water trucks or sprinkler systems to keep all areas where vehicles move
damp enough to prevent dust raised when leaving the site;
wet down areas in the late morning and after work is completed for the
day; and
-- use low sulfur fuel (0.5% by weight) for construction equipment.
Bikeways will be provided along Rancho Santa Fe Road as required by City
standards; if required by the North County Transit District, bus shelters and
benches and street pockets will be installed on Rancho Santa Fe Road; bicycle
storage facilities will be provided at any park and ride sites as required by
Caltrans.
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Earth Resources
0 All improvements proposed in the Final Alignment Studies comply with the
City grading ordinance and incorporate all requirements of the geotechnical
analysis included as Appendix C of the EIR.
Measures required by supplemental Agra Environmental geotechnical reports
(1998) to avoid geotechnical hazards such as soil instability, erosion or dam
instability from blasting will be incorporated into the design of the Final
Alignment Studies.
The contractor will utilize straw, hydroseeding, mulching, or other suitable
materials or techniques during construction activities to reduce the erosion
potential for uncovered soils.
The contractor will install temporary culverts, ditches, catchment basins, and
settling ponds where needed during construction to collect excess water and
sediments carried from the construction site. Sediments collected will be
disposed of onsite, unless contamination of sediment with hazardous material
occurs, which would require disposal at a Class I1 or Class I11 disposal site.
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Section 2.0 Proiect Descrintion
Water Resources
0 All erosion control measures required by the City Grading ordinance for
roadways will be incorporated into the project design;
Project design will ensure that no additional runoff will drain into Stanley
Mahr Reservoir
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All refuse generated during grading will be contained and removed
Construction Phase: During the construction phase, BMPs will be applied to
control storm water runoff and to provide dust control. These measures
include:
Gravel berms, filter fabric fences, lines of straw bales, to prevent erosion
Surfacing of roadways will occur as soon as possible
Periodic watering of areas to keep dust down
Prompt revegetation of surrounding areas to prevent erosion
The Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) as identified in the
construction activity permit from the RWQCB will be implemented
and followed.
To minimize water quality degradation by sedimentation of the river
channel during construction, construction of the new bridge piers and
demolition of existing piers will be limited to the dry season (March to
October).
Operational Phase: The roadway design includes devices for storm water
treatment These devices capture and treat the storm water prior to discharge
to San Marcos Creek. BMPs will also be applied to reduce pollutant loads to
San Marcos Creek. These BMP’s will include use of rip-rap at stormdrain
outlets to reduce the velocity of runoff.
The City will follow all recommendations made pertaining to erosion control
in the geotechnical evaluation by Geocon, Inc., the City of Carlsbad’s Grading
Ordinance, and Landscape Manual.
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minimizes the spillage of soil onto roads in developed areas.
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Section 2.0 Project Description
0 Refuse material such as oil, grease, and broken equipment generated during
grading will be property contained and removed offsite to a disposal site.
Bioloaical Resources
The City is currently in the process of obtaining the necessary permits for
wetland impacts. These permits include a Nationwide Permit in accordance
with Section 404 of the Clean Water Act from the Army Corps of Engineers
(ACOE), a Section 1600 Streambed Alteration Agreement from the California
Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), and a Water Quality Certification
from the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) in accordance with
Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. These permits will be obtained prior to
implementation of grading.
The new bridge and abutments have been designed to avoid and minimize
impacts to jurisdictional wetlands and water of the United States to the extent
feasible. Project impacts to southern willow scrub wetlands and unvegetated
stream channel will be minimized as follows:
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-- For impacts to wetlands habitats, the project will include habitat
creation, restoration, enhancement or acquisition pursuant to permit
requirements of the ACOE and CDFG. The following ratios are
included in the project €or permanent impacts: for unvegetated stream
channels, 1:l; for southern willow scrub, 3:l. Following demolition of
the old bridge over San Marcos Creek, this area will be restored to
support southern willow scrub habitat. Following temporary impacts
necessary to construct the new bridge, pre-construction contours will
be restored and those areas that will support vegetation will be
revegetated with riparian plants.
0 For permanent impacts to upland habitats associated with the roadway
realignment, the City has purchased habitat credits in conformance with the
1996 Fieldstone Habitat Conservation Plan(HCP). The City has contributed
approximately 2 million dollars to the purchase of mitigation property
identified as a part of the HCP for impacts associated with realignment of the
roadway.
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Section 2.0 Project Description
Vegetation removal that is needed to accomplish the project will be conducted
between 15 September and 15 February immediately prior to construction.
All work will be conducted during the daytime hours; night lighting will not
occur except in an emergency situation.
With the eight-foot high sound wall proposed by the project to be located
along the western right-of-way north of Melrose Drive/Rancho Santa Fe Road
intersection, the future peak hour average noise level would be 61 to 62 dB and
future noise levels would not exceed FHWNCaltrans noise criteria at four
homes located along Rancho Santa Fe Road. The eight-foot wall height is based
on the acoustical assessment prepared for the City of San Marcos to address the
widening of Rancho Santa Fe Road at this location (DUDEK, January 2000).
Assuming the City of San Marcos constructs this segment of Rancho Santa Fe
Road, the City of San Marcos will be responsible for constructing the eight-foot
high sound wall. If the City of Carlsbad constructs the proposed project first, the
City of Carlsbad has committed to constructing the sound wall.
All City construction timing requirements would be adhered to as a part of
project construction.
Stationary equipment will be placed such that emitted noise is directed away
from sensitive noise receivers such as residential areas.
Stockpiling and vehicle staging areas will be located as far as practical from
occupied dwellings.
Every effort will be made to create the greatest distance between noise sources
and receptors during construction operations.
All construction equipment, including trucks used for hauling roadbed
material, shall have exhaust and muffler systems in compliance with state
standards for emission and noise control.
Liaht and Glare
Directional street lighting will be utilized to direct lighting away from existing
residences.
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Section 2.0 Project Description
0 Use median landscaping within specifications of the City’s Landscape Manual
to limit the effect of headlights to oncoming tra€fic.
All street lighting will be property directed so as to limit excess light from
intruding into sensitive areas.
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0 City design will use low pressure sodium street lights for preservation of a
“dark sky.”
Visual Qualitgrllandform Alteration
0 All grading proposed for the roadway will conform with recommendations of
Appendix C of the EIR, Carlsbad Grading Ordinance and Hillside development
regulations.
Proposed manufactured slopes will not exceed the maximum heights
anticipated in the EIR (maximum 100 feet).
All temporarily exposed manufactured slopes necessary to accommodate the
roadway will be landscaped immediately with a hydroseed mix and jute
matting .
Step grading techniques will be used where Feasible in the construction of the
three cut slopes proposed south of the replacement bridge to simulate existing
terrain, as well as to better accommodate hydroseeding and planting efforts
Grading techniques such as rounding the edges of the cut will be used to blend the
slopes in the existing terrain
To control erosion, exposed portions OF proposed fill and cut areas will be planted
with a hydroseed mix containing native drought tolerant species.
Due to the high visibility of the proposed manufactured slopes, cut slope areas
adjacent to natural areas will be planted with native, drought tolerant shrubs and
trees where feasible (shrubs and trees may not survive in cut areas that expose
rocky surfaces). All cut slopes will be treated with a hydroseed mix containing
native species. Planting will occur within three months after grading and will be
temporarily irrigated until plants become established.
All landscaping on manuFactured slopes, as we11 as on the roadway median, will
comply with the guidelines of the City of CarIsbad Scenic Corridor Guidelines
Manual.
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Section 2.0 Project Description
Traff ic/Circulation
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A configuration for the Melrose Drive/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection has
been established by the Final Alignment Studies that is consistent with the
alignment established in the EIR;.
Final Alignment Studies include a signal at the Questhaven Road/Rancho
Santa Fe Road intersection.
The Final Alignment Studies provide for full signalization at the Rancho Santa
Fe RoadKadencia Street intersection.
A traffic control plan will be completed which lists all timing, traffic and safety
issues for construction of the roadway. The traffic control plan will provide
€or truck rerouting and that minimizes detours. The plan will be provided to
the contractor.
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SECTION 3.0
DETERMINATION
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The CEaA Guidelines Section 15162 through 15164 set forth the criteria €or determining the
appropriate environmental documentation, if any, to be completed when there is a pre-
existing adopted EIR covering the project. The City provides the €allowing findings: The
Rationale of the Findings is presented in Section 4 of this document.
CEQA Guidelines, Section 15162(a) and 15163 state that “when an EIR has been certified for a
project, no subsequent or supplemental EIR shall be prepared for that project unless the lead agency
determines, on the basis of substantial evidence in light of the whole public record, one or more of the
following:”
1. “Substantial changes are proposed in the project which will require major revisions of the
previous EIR due to the involvement of new significak environmental effects or a substantial
increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects.
Discussion: As discussed in Section 2.0 of this document and illustrated in Figure I,
-the Final Alignment Studies €or the roadway realignment and bridge replacement
substantially con€orms with the preliminary roadway alignment evaluated in the EIR.
The Final Alignment Studies provide the detail regarding grading and roadway
alignment necessary to construct the alignment approved by the City that was not
identified as a part of the preliminary alignment evaluated in the EIR. As also shown
in Figure 1, improvements associated with the Final Alignment Studies would
substantially conform with that evaluated in the EIR. As discussed in Section 4,
Rationale, of this document, comparison of the environmental impacts considered in
the certified EIR with the current proposed Final Alignment Studies for the roadway
realignment and bridge replacement would not result in new significant
environmental effects. The proposed action will not require any changes to the
project description that may have a significant adverse impact to the environment.
Therefore, no substantial changes have been identified.
2. “Substantial changes occur with respect to the circumstances under which the project is
undertaken which will require major revisions of the previous EIR due to the involvement of New
significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity ofpreviously identified
significant efects.
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Section 3.0 Determination
Discussion: No changes to the circumstances under which the EIR was adopted in
1992, resulting in significant new or increased effects were identified in the
environmental review of the proposed roadway and bridge Final Alignment Studies.
As discussed in Section 4, Rationale, of this document, comparison of the
environmental impacts considered in the certified EIR with the current proposed
construction plans for the roadway did not identify any change to the baseline
conditions or to impacts associated with the project. Consequently, no changes in
, circumstances have occurred that would require major revisions of the previous EIR
due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a substantial
increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects.
3. “New information of substantial importance, which was not known and could not have been
known with the exercise of reasonable diligence at the time the previous EIR was certified as
complete shows any of the following:”
a> “The project will have one or more significant effects not discussed in the previous EIR
or Negative Declaration; or”
Discussion: As discussed in Section 4, Rationale, of this document, no new
information of substantial importance which was not known and could not
have been known with the exercise of reasonable diligence at the time the
previous EIR was certified has been identified during the environmental review
of the Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment and bridge
replacement.
b) “Significant effects previously examined will be substantially more severe than shown
in the previous EIR; or”
Discussion: As discussed in Section 4, Rationale, of this document, based on a
review of the previous EIR, no previously examined effects will be more severe
than shown in the previous EIR.
c) “Mitigation measures or alternatives previously found not to be feasible would in fact
be feasible, and would substantially reduce one or more significant efects of the project,
but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measure or alternative; or”
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Section 3.0 Determination
Discussion: As discussed in Section 4, Rationale of this document, no new
information or changes in the project design have been identified or proposed
that would change the feasibility of any proposed mitigation measures.
Measures incorporated into the project (see Section 2.4) combined with
mitigation measures adopted with the EIR in 1992 are found to be adequate
and mitigate for all impacts associated with proposed Final Alignment Studies
for the roadway realignment and bridge replacement.
d) “Mitigation measures or alternatives which are considerably different from those
analyzed in the previous EIR would substantially reduce one or more significant efects
on the environment, but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measure
or alternative.”
Discussion: The proposed Final Alignment Studies for the roadway
realignment and bridge replacement incorporate measures to reduce or avoid
potential environmental impacts. As discussed in Section 4, Rationale of this
document, there are no additional mitigation measures or alternatives required
to implement the modifications to the project. Mitigation measures adopted
with the EIR in 1992 are found to be adequate and mitigate for all impacts
associated with proposed Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment
and bridge replacement.
CEQA Guidelines, Section 15164(b) states that “An Addendum to a previously certified EIR may
be prepared if only minor technical changes or additions are necessary.”
Discussion: Only minor changes or additions are required. As discussed in Section 4,
Rationale, of this document. The proposed Final Alignment Studies for the roadway
realignment and bridge replacement would not create new significant impacts or require
substantial revisions to the mitigation measures identified in the EIR. In addition, the
proposed Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment and bridge replacement would
not meet the criteria set forth in Section 15162(a) and 15163 of CEQA requiring the
preparation of a Supplemental or Subsequent EIR.
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CONCLUSION
7 None of the above criteria triggered the preparation of a subsequent or supplemental EIR
pursuant to CEaPL Guidelines Section 15162(a), 15163. Based on the rationale discussed in
Section 4 of this document, this Addendum to the previously adopted EIR has been prepared
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SECTION 4.0
The Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment and bridge replacement described
in Section 2 substantially conform with the preliminary alignment and bridge replacement
location covered in the EIR. Figure I shows the alignment of the roadway covered in the EIR
as well as the proposed final alignment and limits of grading for roadway and bridge
replacement. As shown inFigure I, considering that the road capacity, alignment, and limits
of grading of the proposed project conform with that covered by the EIR, approval of the
Final Alignment Studies would not create new significant environmental effects or increase
the severity of significant effects for the issues of air quality, traffic circulation, land use,
light and glare, landform alteration, noise, floodplains, water quality, public services,
hazardous wastes, visual quality, cumulative effects and growth inducement from that
identified in the EIR. The rationale for support of these conclusions is discussed further
below.
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Subsequent to certification of the EIR, technical studies and analysis have been completed
related to the Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment to update the cultural
resources and biological resources analysis. As discussed below, based on review of the
technical studies and analysis no new significant impacts have been identified beyond that
identified in the EIR related to these issues.
The proposed bridge replacement location is consistent Gith that anticipated in the EIR in
that the proposed bridge would be located immediately to the west of the existing bridge.
The proposed Final Alignment Studies provide detailed grading and design information for
these improvements that were not included in the EIR. Technical studies for the proposed
bridge replacement project in the areas of earth resources, biological resources, cultural
resources, noise, hazardous materials, water quality, flood hazards and visual assessment
were conducted to determine whether the Final Alignment Studies for Rancho Santa Fe
Bridge Replacement would have an impact on the environment. It was determined, as
discussed further below that with implementation of measures incorporated into the project
design the Final Alignment Studies for the bridge replacement would not create new
significant environmental effects or increase the severity of significant effects identified in
the EIR.
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4.1 Air Quality
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The EIR identified short term significant impacts to air quality associated with construction
and long term significant impacts based on the proposed roadway realignment and widening
as well as the urban development accommodated by the mass grading. Additional grading
beyond that associated with the roadway was intended to accommodate residential,
commercial, office, park, and open space as specified in the General Plan. Development in
accordance with the proposed Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment and
bridge replacement would not create new significant impacts beyond that identified in the
EIR. As illustrated in Figure I, the limits of grading proposed in the Final Alignment Studies
substantially conform to the preliminary limits OE grading evaluated in the EIR.
Short-Term Construction Impucts: Measures have been incorporated into the design and
construction process to reduce short term construction impacts below a level of significance
(see Section 2.4).
Long-Term Impacts: The Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment and bridge
replacement would not increase the travelway width or capacity beyond that addressed in
the EIR. Considering that no additional capacity would be developed, no new long term air
quality impacts beyond that addressed in the EIR would be associated with approval of the
Final Alignment Studies.
4.2 Earth Resources
No features of the proposed Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment or the
bridge replacement would alter the conclusion of the previous EIR regarding geotechnical
hazards or earth resources. The project would not involve an increase from the limit of
grading for the roadway alignment from that anticipated in the EIR. As a result, no new
formations or soil types would be disturbed. In addition, no manufactured slopes proposed
as a part of the project would exceed the 100-foot maximum height identified in the EIR. As
discussed in Section 2.4, all improvements proposed will be completed in accordance with the
requirements of the geotechnical analysis included as Appendix C of the EIR. In addition,
supplemental geotechnical anaIysis has been prepared for the City by Agra Environmental to
address the Final Alignment Studies (Agra Environmental, 1998). Measures required by the
Agra Environmental reports to avoid geotechnical hazards such as soil instability, erosion or
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dam instability from blasting represent refinements to the measures called for the in
geotechnical report prepared for the EIR. As a result irriplementation of the Final Alignment
would not increase the severity of any geotechnical hazards from that identified in the EIR.
4.3 Water Resources
The EIR concluded that surface and subsurface water quality would be adversely affected
by urban contributions. Altering the 448-acre site through mass grading for urban
development and realignment of the roadway would produce greater runoff and potentially
increase downstream flooding.
Development in accordance with the proposed Final Alignment Studies for the roadway
realignment and bridge replacement would not create new significant impacts to water
resources beyond that identified in the EIR. The Final Alignment Studies for the roadway
realignment and bridge replacement are in substantial conformance with the EIR and include
all erosion control measures required by the City grading ordinance and the EIR be
incorporated into the project design (see Section 2.4). A majority of the drainage from the
roadway would be outletted to existing drainages adjacent to the roadway as shown inFigure
2. All drainage outlets would contain rip-rap filters to slow the velocity of the runoff and
minimize offsite erosion. Eventually, a majority of the drainage outlets associated with the
roadway would be connected to systems associated with planned urban development in the
area. In addition, the drainage system has been designed to reduce velocities of runoff that
outlet into the adjacent drainages.
A separate technical study has been prepared by the City to evaluate potential effects of the
bridge design on hydrology and water quality in San Marcos Creek. This study is
incorporated by reference to this Addendum and is available for review at the City (Dudek
& Associates March 24, 1997). The report concluded that with measures included in the
design of the bridge that the hydrology and water quality of San Marcos Creek would not be
adversely impacted. These measures are listed in Section 2.4 of this Addendum.
A separate technical study has also been prepared by the City to evaluate the potential
impacts of the bridge replacement and associated roadway improvements to flood waters
(Dudek & Associates, January 12, 2000). The report concluded that the project does not
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encroach on the base flood plain of San Marcos Creek and that the risk from flooding
associated with this project is not significant. Routine construction measures necessary to
minimize short term impacts to the floodplain incorporated into the project are listed in
Section 2.4 of this Addendum.
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4.4 Biological Resources
Development in accordance with the proposed Final Alignment Studies for the roadway
realignment and bridge replacement would not create new significant impacts beyond that
identified in the EIR. Measures have been incorporated into the design and construction
process to reduce biological resources impacts below a level of significance (see Section 2.4).
As shown in Figure 4, the Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment and bridge
replacement would substantially conform to the preliminary alignment plan evaluated in the
EIR would occur. Furthermore, the City has completed a biological resources report
subsequent to approval of the EIR that updates the biological resources analysis and addresses
the specific impacts of the Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment and bridge
replacement. The Biological Resources Report, prepared by Dudek & Associates in February
2000, is incorporated by reference to this addendum and is available for review at the City.
As discussed further below, the updated Biological Resources Report concluded that with
measures incorporated into the project design no significant impacts to biological resources
would occur.
As discussed in Section 2.0 and shown in Figure 4, some minor modifications to the area of
disturbance from that addressed in the EIR to accommodate temporary construction
activities, and improvements to existing roads are necessary to implement the Final
Alignment Studies. The construction staging area proposed to the south of the
Melrose/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection would be restricted to areas characterized by
annual non-native grassland and no impacts to native vegetation or riparian vegetation would
occur. Proposed construction activities south of La Costa Avenue and in the vicinity of La
Costa Meadows Drive would be restricted to the existing roadway or disturbed habitat
immediately surrounding the roadway. Construction activities in the vicinity o€ the existing
Questhaven/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection would be designed to avoid disturbance to
coastal sage scrub and native grassland areas. Based on a review of the updated Biological
Resources Report and with implementation of measures incorporated into the project listed
in Section 2.4, the proposed construction staging areas and improvements to existing roads
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would not create new significant impacts to biological resburces beyond that identified in the
EIR.
Upland Vegetation and Sensitive Animal/Plant Species
The EIR identified impacts to the upland vegetation communities, the California gnatcatcher
and sensitive plant species. As discussed in Section 5.4 of the EIR (pgs 5.4/12-15), the
roadway and associated mass grading would result in significant impacts to coastal sage
scrub, the California gnatcatcher, and San Diego Goldenstar. The updated Biological
Resources Report (Dudek & Associates, February 2000) concluded that the roadway
realignment would result in a similar level of disturbance of sensitive upland vegetation,
including coastal sage scrub and southern mixed’ chaparral, as that anticipated for the
roadway realignment in the EIR. Both the updated Biological Resources Report and the EIR
also identified significant impacts to the sensitive plant species San Diego Goldenstar.
Sensitive animal species impacted included the California Gnatcatcher and potentially
occurring raptor species. As described in the updated biological resources report, the City has
committed that upland vegetation communities and sensitive species would be mitigated
within the context of the approved Habitat Conservation Plan/Ongoing Multi-Species Plan
(HCP/OMSP).
Use of the HCP/OSMP as mitigation for impacts of the Final Alignment Studies to upland
vegetation and sensitive species is consistent with the mitigation requirements of the EIR.
The EIR concludes that all impacts to upland vegetation and sensitive species would
mitigated once the HCP/OMSP has been adopted and a system of mitigation credits are in
place. Consistent with the requirements of the EIR, the City has implemented the
requirements of the HCP/OMSP in the form of purchasing credits to mitigate impacts to
upland vegetation and sensitive animal and plant species associated with the roadway
realignment.
The updated Biological Resources Report also addresses recently listed endangered species as
well as other sensitive animal and plant species that were not covered by the EIR. The report
concludes that ,all mitigation required in the approved HCP/OMSP would address all
potentially occurring animal species except for two fairy shrimp species, quino checkerspot
butterfly and Pacific pocket mouse. According to the Biological Resources Report, surveys
for the quino checkerspot were negative and the habitat onsite is inappropriate for the pocket
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mouse. In addition, the site is located in a portion of the County for which the USFWS
determined in 2000 that no additional surveys would be required if negative surveys had been
previously conducted. Vernal pools would not be impacted by the project. As a result, it is
not anticipated that the road would directly impact fairy shrimp. The Biological Resources
Report also included surveys for sensitive reptile species including the California redlegged
frog that were negative. Results of surveys for San Diego thornmint were also negative.
Wetlands
The EIR concludes that the project would result in impacts to jurisdictional wetlands and
that mitigation in the form of offsite creatiodenhancement as well as obtaining the
necessary permits from the ACOE, the CDFG and RWQCB will be required prior to
construction. The updated Biological Resources Report concludes that the roadway and
bridge replacement would disturb approximately 1.5 acres of riparian habitat including ACOE
jurisdiction waters. Measures incorporated into the project to reduce impacts to wetlands
to below a level of significance are listed in Section 2.4 of this Addendum and are consistent
with those measures listed in the EIR. Considering that measures areincorporated into the
project including commitment to offsite wetland restoration/creation and that the proposed
project substantially conforms to the limits of grading covered by the EIR, no new significant
impacts to wetlands beyond that identified in the EIR would be associated with
implementation of the project.
The updated Biological Resources Report identifies four vernal pools in the project vicinity
that were not identified in the EIR. However, these vernal pools would be located
approximately 200-600 feet from the proposed limits of grading for the Final Ahgnment. As
a result, it is not anticipated that implementation of the roadway would impact these vernal
pools.
4.5 Noise
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The EIR concluded that increased traffic on the proposed roadway would result in long term
noise level greater than 60 db(A) at the property line from increased traffic on the realigned
Rancho Santa Fe Road. As a result, residential land uses proposed adjacent to the roadway
may experience signiFicant noise levels. Mitigation identified in the EIR consists of
implementation of measures contained in the City Noise element as a part of future
developments adjacent to the roadway.
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Implementation of the roadway realignment and widening in accordance with the Final
Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment and bridge replacement would not create
new significant impacts in terms of construction noise or long-term traffic generated noise
beyond that identified in the EIR. Measures have been incorporated into the design and
construction process to reduce short term construction noise impacts below a level of
significance (see Section 2.4). The Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment and
bridge replacement would not increase the travelway width or capacity beyond that
addressed in the EIR. Considering that no additional capacity would be developed, no new
long term impacts from traffic noise beyond that addressed in the EIR would be associated
with approval of the Final Alignment Studies
Furthermore, the City has completed an acoustical report subsequent to approval of the EIR
to comply with the requirement of the EIR that subsequent acoustical studies be prepared
to refine measures necessary to reduce impacts from traffic noise on residential projects. The
acoustical report (Dudek & Associates, 1997) is incorporated by reference to this Addendum
and is available for review at the City. The report concluded that with measures incorporated
into the project design (see Section 2.4) no significant impacts to existing residences in the
vicinity of the roadway would occur.
4.6 Light and Glare
No new significant impacts from light and glare to existing residents are anticipated with
project implementation beyond that identified in the EIR. The proposed project design
incorporates measures required by the EIR (see Section 2.4) to reduce light from the roadway.
In addition, the alignment for the roadway was chosen by the City to maximize the distance
between the roadway and the existing residences in the vicinity of La Costa Avenue. The
proposed alignment conforms with that anticipated by the EIR. As a result, no lighting
sources from the proposed project would be closer to the existing residences than from that
evaluated by the EIR.
4.7 LandUse
The Final Alignment Studies proposed for the roadway conform with the alignment and
capacity evaluated in the EIR and approved by the Circulation Element of the City General
Plan. Therefore, the proposed project would not create any new land use inconsistencies with
relevant land use planning documents beyond that identified in the EIR.
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4.8 Public Services
Implementation of the proposed Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment and
bridge replacement would not generate additional population growth. The proposed Final
Alignment Studies implement the roadway alignment and capacity increase evaluated in the
EIR. In addition, widening the roadway is designed to implement the approved Circulation
Element of the City General Plan. The Circulation Element provides for transportation
elements necessary to accommodate both existing demand and planned growth within the
City.
4.9 Utilities
Adoption of the proposed Final Alignment Studies would not generate demand for sewer,
water, natural gas, electrical or solid water services. It is anticipated that utilities such as
sewer, water, gas and electricity necessary to serve future development would be located
within the alignment proposed for the roadway. However, adoption of the Final Alignment
Studies and construction of the roadway itself would not include any utility connections or
increase demand for those services. As a result, implementation of the project would not
create any new significant impacts with respect to utilities from that anticipated by the EIR.
4.1 0 Landform Alteration/Visual Quality
The Final Alignment Studies proposed by the project would implement the alignment and
roadway width anticipated by the EIR. The limits of grading or location of the roadway
proposed as a part of the Final Alignment Studies substantially conform with that identified
in the EIR and approved as a part of the General Plan Circulation Element are proposed.
Therefore, quantities of earth work as well as size of manufactured slopes (50-100 feet) would
not exceed that anticipated by the EIR. In addition, the proposed project design incorporates
the measures required by the EIR to mitigate potential impacts to existing land forms and
visual quality. These measures are listed in Section 2.4 of this Addendum.
A separate visual assessment was prepared by the City for the bridge replacement portion of
the project in 1997 to further define measures necessary to reduce visual impacts associated
with manufactured slopes identified in the Final Alignment Studies (DUDEK, March 25,
1997). Preparation of the technical study was completed in accordance with the requirement
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of the EIR that grading from hillsides be designed to maintain the appearance of natural
slopes where possible. The visual assessment is incorporated by reference to this document
and is available for review at the City. Measures required in the visual assessment for
potential impacts to visual quality associated with exposed manufactured slopes have been
incorporated into the project (see Section 2.4 of this Addendum).
4.1 1 CuItural/Historic Resources
The EIR concluded that six historic sites within the project area are vulnerable to destruction.
Five of these sites are considered potentially important. The EIR required further site testing
and surveys as a part of future development of urban uses to mitigate for potential impacts
to these cultural sites.
The City has completed a cultural resource study subsequent to the approval of the EIR that
cover the proposed Final Alignment Studies for both Phases 1 and 2 of the roadway (Gallegos
& Associates, 2000). These cultural resources studies are available for review at the City of
Carlsbad and are incorporated by reference to this Addendum. The cultural resources studies
prepared for Phase 1 for Phase 2 concluded that the proposed Final Alignment Studies would
avoid disturbance of significant cultural resources. Therefore, implementation of the
proposed Final Ahgnment Studies would not result in new impacts to cultural resources from
that identified in the EIR.
4.1 2 Traffic/Circulation
The EIR concludes that traffic volumes would increase in association with development of
the 448-acre area proposed for mass grading. However, the realigned and widened Rancho
Santa Fe Road would operate acceptably by accommodating proposed traffic levels and
improving levels of service at intersections in the project vicinity. As a result, the EIR
concluded that development of the project area as well as construction of the roadway would
not result in significant adverse impacts to traffic congestion or circulation within the project
area.
Adoption of the proposed Final Alignment Studies would not after the alignment or capacity
of the roadway from that covered in the EIR and, therefore, would implement the traffic
congestion relief anticipated by the EIR with implementation of the realignment. As
discussed in the EIR, the proposed roadway realignment, widening and bridge replacement
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improvements are necessary to implement the transportation requirements of the City of
Carlsbad General Plan. Community benefits from this project will include reduced
congestion, improved traffic flow and increased safety for travelers on the roadway.
Additionally, this road realignment will provide a vital link in the regions roadway network.
Increasing the capacity of the roadway would bring levels of service at intersections in the
project vicinity to acceptable levels. In addition, the proposed project incorporates all traffic
mitigation measures required by the EIR related to Rancho Santa Fe Road. Measures required
by the EIR incorporated into the project are listed in section 2.4 of this Addendum.
4.1 3 Cumulative Effects
As concluded in the previous discussion for each environmental category, no new significant
impacts beyond that identified in the EIR would occur with implementation of the proposed
Final Alignment Studies. Furthermore, measures are incorporated into the proposed Final
Alignment Studies to reduce Air Quality, Earth Resources, Water Resources, Biological
Resources, Noise, Light and Glare, Visual Quality/Landform Alteration and Traffic/
Circulation. Therefore, in the absence of significant impacts or increase in the severity of
impacts, development in accordance with the Final Alignment Studies would not create new
significant cumulative impacts beyond that identified in the EIR.
4.1 4 Growth Inducement
The proposed Final Alignment Studies implement the roadway alignment and capacity
increase evaluated in the EIR. In addition, widening the roadway is designed to implement
the approved Circulation Element of the City General Plan. The Circulation Element
provides for transportation elements necessary to accommodate both existing demand and
planned growth within the City. Therefore, implementation of the proposed Final Alignment
Studies would not create new growth impacts beyond that identified in the EIR.
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MITIGATION, MONITORING AND
REPORTING PROGRAM (MMRP)
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The City is responsible for the overall implementation and management of the MMRP
through the design, construction and operations period.
The mitigation measures that were adopted as conditions of project approval are described
in the EIR (see Section 2.0, Summary ofFindings). The City has incorporated, as part of its
proposed Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment and bridge replacement, a
number of measures to reduce or avoid potential environmental impacts associated with
construction and operation. These measures are considered part of the proposed Final
Alignment Studies are listed in Section 2.4 of this document.
No other mitigation measure has been identified as necessary in order to accommodate the
proposed project.
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REFERENCES
Dudek & Associates, March 24,1997. Water Quality Study Rancho Santa Fe Bridge Replacement
Project .
Dudek & Associates, March 25, 1997. Visual Assessment of Rancho Santa Fe Road Bridge
Replacement.
Dudek & Associates, April 7, 1997. Phase I Environmental Assessment for 55.55 acre Rancho
Santa Fe Bridge Replacement.
Dudek & Associates, January 12, 2000. Floodplain Evaluation Report Rancho Santa Fe Bridge
Replacement Project.
Dudek & Associates, January, 2000. Drafi Acoustical Assessment Report Rancho Santa Fe Bridge
Replacement Project.
Dudek & Associates, February, 2000. Bjological Resources Report for Rancho Santa Fe Roadway
Realignment and Bridge Replacement Project.
Gallegos & Associates, February, 2000. Cultural Resources Report for Rancho Santa Fe Roadway
Realignment and Bridge Replacement Project.
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