HomeMy WebLinkAbout3190; Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment; Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment; 2000-04-01k
RANCHO SANTA FE ROAD
REALIGNMENT
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
ll-SD-O-CBD
STPLF-5308t007)
P.M.
STATE OF CAUFORNIA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CALTRANS)
District 11
2829 Juan Street
P.O. Box 85406
San Diego, CA 92138-5406
and
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
* Pursuant to 42. U.S.C 4332[2)C
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Cooperating j^encies:
Environmental Protection i^ency (EPA)
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS]
APRIL 2000
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Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment • Environmental Assessment
TABLE or CONTENTS
Section Page
SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS 1
1.0 PURPOSE AND NEED FOR PROJECT 1-1
1.1 General Project Purpose and Need Statement 1-1
1.2 Purpose of Environmental Assessment 1-1
1.3 Project History 1-2
1.4 Existing Facility 1-2
1.5 Project Funding 1-2
1.6 Traffic 1-3
1.7 Scope of the Environmental Review 1-3
1.8 Comments and Coordination 1-3
1.9 Decisions to be Made and Permits Required 1-4
1.10 Environmental Justice 1-4
1.11 Content and Format of the Environmental Assessment 1-5
2.0 PROPOSED PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND COMPARATIVE
ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES 2-1
2.1 Project Location 2-1
2.2 Description of Proposed Project 2-1
2.2.1 Roadway Realignment 2-1
2.2.2 Bridge Improvements 2-5
2.2.3 Project Phasing 2-5
2.2.4 Construction Activities, Funding and Timing 2-6
2.2.5 Existing Roadway Vacation 2-6
2.2.6 Environmental Commitments of Proposed Project 2-6
2.3 Analysis of Alternatives 2-13
2.3.1 No Project Alternative 2-13
2.3.2 Alternatives Withdrawn from Further Consideration 2-13
3.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 3-1
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Ranclio Santa Fe Road Realignment • Environmental Assessment
TABLE or CONTENTS (Continued)
Section Page
4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION 4-1
4.1 Environmental Significance Checklist 4-2
5.0 DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION AND
MITIGATION MEASURES 5-1
5.1 Physical Environment 5-1
5.1.1 Topography/VisualResources(#sl, 2, 9,21,49,50) 5-1
5.1.2 Geologic Features/Hazards/Paieontology (#s 2, 3, 4) 5-11
5.1.3 Energy/NaturalResource/WaterDemand(#s5, 6, 7,12) 5-12
5.1.4 Hazardous Materials (#s 8, 45, 56) 5-13
5.1.5 Floodplain Evaluation (#10) 5-15
5.1.6 Water Quality (#s 11,14, 51) 5-18
5.1.7 Air Quality (#s 15,16, 17, 18) 5-21
5.1.8 Noise (#s 19, 20,51) 5-26
5.2 Biological Resources (#s 9, 13, 22 - 29, 49, 52 - 54) 5-30
5.2.1 Farmland (#25) 5-40
5.3 Social and Economic 5-41
5.3.1 Community Disruption/Land Use/ Property Values
(#s 30-39, 47) 5-41
5.3.2 Public Services and Utilities (#s 8, 40, 41) 5-43
5.3.3 Historic and Archeological Resources (#s 40, 48, 53) 5-44
5.3.4 Transportation and Circulation (#s 42, 43, 44, 46, 51) 5-46
5.3.5 The Relationship Between Short Term Uses of Man's
Environment and the Maintenance and Enhancement
of Long Term Productivity ( # 54) 5-50
5.4 Cumulative Impacts of Related Projects (#55) 5-50
H 5.5 No Project Alternative Environmental Evaluation 5-51
P 6.0 CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION 6-1
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7.0 ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION PERSONNEL 7-1
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Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement
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Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment • Environmental Assessment
TABLE or CONTENTS (Continued)
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LIST or riGLRES
Figure 2-1 Region Map 2-2
Figure 2-2 Final Alignment 2-3
Figure 2-3 Typical Road and Bridge Cross Sections 2-4
Figure 5.1-1 Bridge Replacement Visual Simulation 5-3
Figure 5.1-2 View of Roadway and Bridge form Southbound Travelers on
Rancho Santa Fe Road 5-4
Figure 5.1-3 View of Roadway and Manufactures Slopes from Southbound Travelers
on Rancho Santa Fe Road 5-5
Figure 5.1-4 View of Roadway and Bridge from Existing Residences 5-6
LIST or TABLES
Table 5.1-1 Peak Flows, Existing Rancho Santa Fe Bridge 5-16
Table 5.2-1 Plant Community or Land Cover Acreages 5-31
Table 5.2-2 Proposed Impacts by Plant Community 5-35
Table 5.3-1 Existing Conditions - Signalized Intersections 5-47
Table 5.3-2 Existing Conditions - Unsignalized Intersections 5-47
Table 5.3-3 2010 Conditions - Intersections with
Implementation of Proposed Project 5-48
Table 5.3-4 1990, 1995 and 2010 Conditions - Road Segments 5-48
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Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement
SUMMARY or
CNVieONMENTAL COMMITMENTS
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The City of Carlsbad (City), proposes to realign and widen approximately 10,500 linear feet of
Rancho Santa Fe Road and truck bypass lane as well as replace the existing Rancho Santa Fe
Bridge at San Marcos Creek. The City has incorporated as part of the proposed project 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 City EIR as
P well as measures recommended by subsequent technical studies have been incorporated into the
to project design. These measures are considered part of the project and are summarized below:
^ Hazardous Materials
1* • In the event that grading or construction or proposed facilities during both
to Phases 1 and 2 encounters onsite underground storage tanks or hazardous
waste, the Authority will ensure compliance with the State of California CCR
Title 23 Health and Safety Regulations as managed by the San Diego County
Environmentai Health Department, Hazardous Materials Management
Division.
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Paleontological Resources
• Prior to construction, the City shall provide certification that a qualified
paleontologist and/or paleontological monitor have been retained to implement
the construction monitoring program within appropriate geologic formations
(Santiago Formation). The verification shall be in the form of a letter addressed
to the City.
• The qualified paleontologist shall attend preconstruction meetings to make
p comments and/or suggestions concerning the construction monitoring program,
to The verification shall be in the form of a letter addressed to the City.
• In the event that unanticipated resources are discovered, the paleontologist shall
J have the City to divert or temporarily halt ground disturbance operations in the
area of discovery to allow evaluation of potentially significant resources. The
p paleontologist shall contact the City at the time of discovery. The significance of
H the discovered resources shall be determined by the paleontologist, in consultation
with the City. The City must concur with the evaluation before construction
W resumes.
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pB Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement
SUMMARY or
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS
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• A monitoring report and/or evaluation report, if appropriate, which describes the
PR results, analysis, and conclusions to the paleontological monitoring program (with
^ appropriate graphics) shall be submitted to and approved by the City.
^ Air Quality
Measures incorporated into the proposed project to minimize air quality impacts include:
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ig • 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.
• Covering/tarping all vehicles hauling dirt or spoils on public roadways unless
^ additional moisture is added to prevent material blow-off during transport.
• Requiring low-NOj.-emission tuneups for all on-site construction equipment at a
minimum of 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
m, exceeds ten (10) minutes.
^ • Scheduling partial of full street closures to off-peak traffic hours.
^ • The contractor will preform street sweeping should silt be carried over to adjacent
public thoroughfares.
• During construction, the City will require the contractor to:
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— 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
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- use low sulfur fuel (0.5% by weight) for construction equipment
* • Bikeways will be provided along Rancho Santa Fe Road as required by the City
to standards; if required by the North County Transit District, bus shelters and
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SUMMARY or
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS
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benches and street pockets will be installed on Rancho Santa Fe Road; bicycle
pi storage facilities will be provided at any park and ride sites as required by Caltrans.
^ Earth Resources
^ • AU 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 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 pools 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 an appropriate disposal site for hazardous
materials.
Water Resources
• AU erosion control measures required by the City Grading Ordinance for roadways
wUl be incorporated into the project.
• Project design wUl ensure that no additional runoff will drain into Stanley Mahr
Reservoir.
• 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 provide dust control. These measures include:
p - Gravel berms, filter fabric fences, lines of straw bales, to prevent
• erosion
— Surfacing of roadways will occur as soon as possible
J - Periodic watering of areas to keep dust down
- Prompt revegetation of surrounding areas to prevent erosion
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SUMMARY or
^ ENVIRONMENTAL COMMFTMENTS
• 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 wiU also be applied to reduce pollutant loads to San
Marcos Creek. These BMPs 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.
• When feasible, hauling by the developer will be accomplished in a manner that
minimizes the spillage of soil onto roads in developed areas.
• Refuse material such as oil, grease, and broken equipment generated during
grading will be property contained and removed offsite to a disposal site.
Biological 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 proposed project impacts to southern willow scrub wetlands and
unvegetated stream channel wiU be minimized as follows:
— For impacts to wetlands habitats, the proposed project wiU include habitat
creation, restoration, enhancement or acquisition pursuant to permit
requirements of the ACOE and CDFG. The following ratios are included for
permanent impacts: for unvegetated stream channels, 1:1; for southern wiU
scrub, 3:1.
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SUMMARY or
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS
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— Following demolition of the old bridge over San Marcos Creek, this area will
be restored to support southern willow scrub habitat.
il — FoUowing 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.
• For permanent impacts to upland habitats associated with the roadway
IM realignment, the City purchased habitat credits in conformance with the 1996
to Fieldstone Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP). The City has contributed
approximately two million dollars to the purchase of the mitigation property
identified as a part of the HCP for impacts associated with proposed project.
• Vegetation removal that is needed to accomplish the proposed project will be
conducted between 15 September and 15 February immediately prior to
Ml construction.
p • All work will be conducted during the daytime hours; night lighting will not occur
^ except in an emergency situation.
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Noise
An eight-foot high sound wall to be located along the western right-of-way north
of Melrose Drive/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection will be developed as part of
the proposed project. The eight-foot wall height is based on the acoustical
assessment prepared for the City of San Marcos to address the widening or
Rancho Santa Fe Road at this location (DUDEK, January 2000). Development of
this waU will ensure that future noise levels would not exceed FHWA/Caltrans
noise criteria.
All City construction timing requirements would be adhered to as a part of
construction.
Stationary equipment will be placed such that emitted noise is directed away from
sensitive nosie receivers such as residential areas.
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• Stockpiling and vehicle staging areas wUl be located as far as practical from
occupied dwellings.
li • Every effort will be made to create the greatest distance between noise sources and
receptors during construction operations.
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SUMMARY or
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS
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• AU construction equipment, including trucks used for hauling roadbed material,
^ shaU have exhaust and muffler systems in compliance with state standards for
^ emission and noise control.
^ Light and Glare
m • Directional street lighting wiU be utUized to direct lighting away from existing
to residences.
• Use median landscaping within specifications of the City's Landscape Manual to
limit the effect of headlights to oncoming traffic.
M All street lighting will be property directed so as to limit excess light from
"* intruding into sensitive areas.
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M City design will use low pressure sodium street lights for preservation of a "dark
M- sky."
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^ Visual Quality/Landform Alteration
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M AU grading proposed for the roadway will conform with recommendations of
^ APPENDIX C of the EIR, Carlsbad Grading Ordinance and HiUside development
«H regulations.
^ M Proposed manufactured slopes wiU not exceed the maximum heights anticipated
in the EIR (maximum 100 feet).
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M AU temporary exposed manufactured slopes necessary to accommodate the
^ roadway wUl be landscaped immediately with a hydroseed mix and jute matting.
^ M Step grading techniques where feasible wiU be used in the construction of the
three cut slopes proposed south of the replacement bridge to simulate existing
^ terrain, as weU as to better accommodate hydroseeding and planting efforts.
• Grading techniques such as rounding the edges of the cut wiU be used to blend the
^ slopes in the existing terrain.
• To control erosion, exposed portions of proposed fiU and cut areas wiU be planted
* with hydroseed mix containing native drought tolerant species.
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• Due to high visibility of the proposed manufactured slopes, cut slope areas
P adjacent to natural areas, where feasible (shrubs & trees nay not survive in cut
^ areas that expose rocky surfaces), wiU be planted with native, drought tolerant
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Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 6
SUMMARY or
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS
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shrubs and trees. AU cut slopes wiU be treated with a hydroseed mix containing
native species. Planting wUl occur within three months after grading and wiU be
temporary irrigated until plants become estabUshed.
All landscaping on manufactured slopes, as weU as the roadway median wiU
comply with the guidelines of the Gity of Carlsbad Scenic Corridor Guidelines
Manual
* Traffic/Circulation
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^ MA configuration for the Melrose Drive/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection has
been established by the Final Alignment studies that is consistent with circulation
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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
Road/Cadencia Street intersection.
A traffic control plan wUl be prepared for approval by the City and-Caltrans. The
traffic control plan wUl show all signage, striping, delineate detours, flagging
operations, and any other devices which wiU be used during construction to guide
motorists safely through the construction zone. The traffic control plan wiU also
include provisions for coordinating with local emergency service providers
regarding construction times and locations of lane closures as well as specifications
for bicycle lane safety. The City's construction contractors wUl coordinate traffic
diversions, street and lane closures, and obstruction of intersections with the
City's engineering department prior to commencing construction activities
through th development of routing and detour studies.
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Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 7
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SECTION 1.0
PURPOSE AND NEED EOR PROJECT
p 1.1 General Project Purpose and Need Statement k
The proposed Rancho Santa Fe Road realignment, widening and bridge replacement
improvements are necessary to implement the transportation requirements of the City of
Carlsbad General Plan 1994. Community benefits from the proposed project wUl include reduced
congestion, improved traffic flow and increased safety for travelers on the roadway.
Additionally, this road realignment wUl 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 proposed
project will also involve replacement of the existing bridge over San Marcos Greek which is
currently hydraulically inadequate and cannot pass the 100-year storm without becoming
submerged.
1.2 Purpose of Environmental Assessment
This Environmental Assessment (EA) has been prepared to evaluate the potential environmental
effects of the Gity of Carlsbad (Gity) proposed widening realignment and bridge replacement for
a section of Rancho Santa Fe Road. The Gity, proposes to realign and widen approximately
10,500 linear feet of Rancho Santa Fe Road and truck bypass lane as well as replace the existing
Rancho Santa Fe Road Bridge at San Marcos Creek. Rancho Santa Fe Road would be widened
from two lanes to an ultimate six-lane Prime Arterial Roadway from the La Costa
Avenue/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection to just north of Melrose Drive. The City proposes
to construct the project in two phases. Phase 1 wiU consist of the realignment of Rancho Santa
Fe Road south of the San Marcos bridge crossing. Phase 2 wiU consist of the bridge replacement
and intersection improvements north of the bridge.
Federal funding is required for the Phase 1 portion of the proposed project. As a result, the
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) with the California Department of Transportation
(Caltrans) as the representative for FHWA constitute the federal joint lead agency responsible
for ensuring National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance.
To comply with NEPA, this EA has been prepared in accordance with FHA Technical Advisory,
T6440.Ba and the September 3, 1998 FHWA Environmental Checklist for "Draft" documents.
This EA is intended to make the decision maker aware of the environmental consequences
associated with the proposed project and alternatives, including the No Project Alternative. This
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SecUon 1.0 Purpose and Need for Project
EA contains the environmental documentation that wiU enable FHWA and Caltrans to evaluate
the proposed project in terms of its environmental consequences and to consider project
alternatives.
1-3 Project History
The City as lead agency under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) prepared and
certified the 1992 Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Mass Grading Environmental Impact
Report (SCH # 90010850) to satisfy the requirements of CEQA for the proposed project. The
proposed project evaluated in the EIR set the preliminary alignment and limits of grading for the
pn roadway and the bridge replacement. Subsequently, the City completed Final Alignment Studies
p for the proposed project. Final Alignment studies for the roadway realignment as well as the
bridge replacement substantially conform with the preliminary alignment and bridge
replacement evaluated in the EIR. Therefore the City prepared and adopted an Addendum to the
EIR evaluating the Final Alignment Studies for the project in March 2000. The Addendum
addressing the final alignment is incorporated by reference to this document and is avaUable for
review at the Gity.
Separate technical studies were prepared by the Gity to address specific environmental issues
associated with the proposed Final Alignment studies. The results of these studies have been
incorporated into the analysis completed for this EA. A list of the separate technical studies
completed for the proposed project are listed in the introduction to SECTION 4.0, Environmental
Evaluation of this EA.
1.4 Existing Facility
The existing Rancho Santa Fe Road consists of two paved lanes with curb and gutter on the west
side and a combination of asphalt curb and gutter on the east side. A truck bypass route extends
from La Costa Avenue northeast to the existing two lane road and eventually reconnects with
the roadway immediately south of the existing bridge.
1.5 Project Funding
The project wiU be funded by both the Gity and Caltrans. The City has requested $6,100,000
p from Caltrans for construction of the Phase 1 portion of the project. Federal FHWA funding
sources for the project wiU include the Special Projects and Regional Surface Transportation
Program funds. Considering the project wUl be constructed by the City, the remaining funding
for Phase 1 and 2 wUl be provided by the Gity through local funds.
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Section 1.0 Purpose and Need for Project
1.6 Traffic
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p It was determined by the Gity as a part of the traffic analysis prepared for the EIR addressing the
p proposed project that under the No Project Alternative intersections and roadways in the project
vicinity would operate at unacceptable levels at the buildout year (2010). A detailed discussion
F of the anticipated Levels of Service (LOS) at local intersections and roadway segments is
contained in SECTION 5.3, Discussion of Environmental Evaluation of this EA. It was determined as
a part of the analysis completed for the EIR that implementation of the proposed project would
y bring the local intersections and roadway segments to acceptable LOS at the buildout year 2010.
The Final Alignment Studies for the proposed project would not alter the alignment or capacity
1^ of the roadway from that covered in the EIR and, therefore, would implement the traffic
IM congestion relief anticipated by the EIR with implementation of the realignment.
1^ The proposed project is included in the 1998-2004 San Diego Association of Governments
Regional Transportation Improvements Program. Project elements addressed by the Regional
pn Transportation Improvement Program include the proposed realignment, widening, and bridge
^ replacement.
^ 1.7 Scope ofthe Environmental Review w
fp. This EA identifies, describes and evaluates the potential environmental impacts that could result
^ from the proposed project. The EA identifies environmental permits relevant to the proposed
project. As appropriate, this document describes, in terms of regional overview or a site-specific
^ description, the affected environment and environmental consequences of the action. The EA
also identifies measures that have been incorporated into the proposed project to prevent or
^ minimize environmental impacts.
The rationale for the determination of issues to be covered by the EA is included in SECTION 4.0,
Environmental Evaluation and SECTION 5.0, Discussion of Environmental Evaluation and in the EHA
^ Administration Regional 9 Environmental Checklist for Draft Documents attached as to this document.
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Ml 1.8 Comments and Coordination
P In accordance with NEPA, a good faith effort has been made during the preparation of this EA
to to contact affected agencies, organizations and persons who may have an interest in this
proposed project. Coordination with agencies completed for this EA is discussed in SECTION 7.0,
il Comments and Coordination of this EA. During preparation of this EA, the City and Caltrans have
coordinated with the appropriate federal agencies. A list of sensitive plants and animal species
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Section 1.0 Purpose and Need for Prq|ect
^ was obtained from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Consultation with the
^ Army Corps of Engineers and the National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) was
completed for wetland delineations. Cultural resources surveys have been prepared to comply
^ with the requirements of the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO). Based on the
consultation with these agencies key issues were identified and evaluated in the EA. No
p unresolved issues have been identified as a result of consultation with agencies conducted to date,
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p 1.9 Decisions to be Made and Permits Required
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In the FHWA and Caltrans review of the proposed project, environmental considerations,
P economic and social factors will be weighed to determine the most appropriate course of action,
i" which may include:
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(a) Approval of the proposed project
(b) Approval of an alternative with specific conditions and mitigation measures
(c) Denial of the project
In addition to FHWA and Caltrans approval, of state and local permits or approvals are expected
^ to be required for the proposed project, including the foUowing:
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^ M California Regional Water Quality Control Board - water quality certification or
waiver under Section 401 of the Glean Water Act
M Army Corps of Engineers - Permit under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
M California Department of Fish and Game - Streambed Alteration Agreement
Under Section 1600 of the California Department of Fish and Game Code
M Compliance with National Historic Preservation Act and SHPO requirements
• Compliance with National Pollution Discharge Elimination (NPDES) General
Construction Activity Permit and dewatering certification from Regional Water
(w» Quality Control Board
^ M Final Alignment Studies approval by the City of Carlsbad
M Approval of Rancho Santa Fe Road Assessment District by City of Carlsbad
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1.10 Environmental ]ustice
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il Executive Order (EO) 12898, Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Pop>ulations
and Low-Income Populations, was issued by President Clinton on February 11,1994. In theEO, the
President instructed each federal agency to make "achieving environmental justice part of its
mission by identifying and addressing, as appropriate, disproportionately high and adverse
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Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 1 -4
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Section 1.0 Purpose and Need for Project
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human health or environmental effects of its programs, policies, and activities on minority
populations and low-income populations." Based on analysis conducted for this EA, it was
determined that activities associated with the proposed project would not have adverse effects
for the foUowing resources: community setting, land use, air quality, utiUties; noise,
transportation, and hazardous materials and wastes. Having determined that neither the
proposed project would have any adverse effect, no disproportionately high and adverse impacts
il upon minority and low-income populations are anticipated. Therefore, additionai environmental
justice analyses were not conducted.
1.11 Content and Format of the Environmental Assessment
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P This Environmental Assessment includes the foUowing section:
Section 1.0, Purposed and Need for the Project: Provides an introduction to and purpose of the
Environmental Assessment.
S Section 2.0, Proposed Projert Description and Comparative Analysis of Alternatives: Provides
a description of the proposed Final Alignment Studies for the roadway realignment as well as the
^ bridge replacement. The section also includes a comparative analysis of the No Project
to Alternative and alternatives withdrawn from consideration.
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^ Section 3.0, Affected Environment: Provides a general setting for the proposed project.
Sertion 4.0, Environmental Evaluation: Provides a list of technical studies and environmental
tto analysis completed for the addendum as weU as the determination of significance based on the
Caltrans environmental checklist.
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Section 5.0, Discussion of Environmental Evaluation and Mitigation Measures: This section
w provides the rationale for the significance determinations made in the EA. The discussion is
^ based on the environmental checklist in SECTION 4.0 as weU as the September 3, 1998 FHWA
Environmental Checklist for Draft Documents which is included as to this document.
Section 6.0, Consultation and Coordination: Section describes consultation with federal, state
and local agencies completed during preparation of the EA.
Section 7.0, Environmental Evaluation Personnel.
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SECTION 2.0
PROPOSED PROJECT DESCRIPTION
AND COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES
2.1 Project Location
lg 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
||P Fe Road intersection to approximately 100 feet north of the Melrose Drive/Rancho Santa Fe Road
to within the City of Carlsbad. Figures 2-1 and2-2 iUustrate the location of the proposed project in
a regional and local context. Figure 2-2 also iUustrates the area of potential effect (APE) for Phases
1 and 2.
f<" 2.2 Description of Proposed Project
5
III
The Final Alignment studies developed by the City are iUustrated in Figure 2-2. As shown in
Figure 2-2, 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
fm, fuU width on the east side of the median, with sidewalks, curb and gutter, and street lights from
the bridge to the north of Melrose Drive (see cross-section in Figure 2-5). The Final Alignment
studies also include drainage facilities and drainage outlets to be constructed as a part of the
proposed project. Details of the Final Alignment studies are described further below:
im
2.2.1 Roadway Realignment
The proposed widening and realignment of Rancho Santa Fe Road is part of the City's General
Plan to upgrade Rancho Santa Fe Road to meet its designation as a Prime Arterial Roadway. A
Prime Arterial Roadway has a 126-foot right-of-way containing six travel lanes, a bike lane, an
18-foot raised median, sidewalks, curb and gutter.
As Ulustrated in Figure 2-2, the northerly roadway approach for the new bridge will be
IP" approximately 2,200 feet long and includes the reconstruction of the La Costa Meadows
IK Drive/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection, and reconstruction of approximately 300 feet of La
Costa Meadows Drive east of the intersection.
As Ulustrated in Figure 2-3, the realigned Rancho Santa Fe Road wUl be constructed to the fuU
I width on the east side of the median, with sidewalks, curb and gutter, and street lights from the
II bridge to north of the Melrose Drive/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection. The west side of the
roadway wiU be constructed with 32 feet of paving adjacent to the median curb.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 2-1
Orange
County
San Diego
Mexico
1"-8 Miles Hiuana
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Rancho Santa Fe Rd. Realignment - Environmental Assessment
Regional Map
FIGURE
2-1
r r-^ f
Existing Corintia Dr.
Existing Single
Family Residential
Existing Melrose Dr.
APE (Phases 2)
Proposed Bridge.
Existing Light
Industrial Park
La Costa Meadows Dr.
Existing Bridge
Questhaven Rd.
Existing Single
Family Residential
Existing Roadway
To Be Vacated
APE (Phase 1)
La Costa Ave. Seals In Faet
Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment - Environmental Assessment
Final Alignment
FIGURE
2-2
II II IJ ftl II il II ri II II II it ii II II il II il il
6- TYPE 'F'tC DIKE
l2Sr R/W
SIDE K orrcH
€_ VARiES Sy- ^ ... SZ
3Z
NEW PM/EUEHT
AC PM/eUEMT WER—^ / mjSHED AEB/tEGJO-E BASE / /
f TYPE 'B-ram —' I
•r STAMPED COKPErE 0/EB •T CRUSHED AGGROATE BASE
•S/OE AC OfTCH.
AC PMEUEMT 0/ER CRUSHED AGGREGATE BASS
•ff-TYPE 'B-rcURB
TYPICAL ROAD SECTION
r~cr
Cone barrier Type 26 w/
tubufar tand railing, typ
5/'-9"
Stage I Construction
l^-o•
Cone barrier Type 25, typ
I I
Varies (~2X to •t-2X) I
/cy-3"
Rancho Santa Fe Bridge
leys' sr-sf
stage 2 Construction
iBT-O' i^-o' i^-cr ff-o- S'-a
Profile Grade
T t
-27.
r-cr
CIP/PS cone
box girder, typ-
1?^
SOURCE: Dokken Engineering, February 2000 TYPICAL BRIDGE SECTION
Rancho Santa Fe Rd. Realignment - Environmental Assessment
Typical Road and Bridge Cross Sections
FIGURE
2-3
Proposed Prefect Description and
*" Section 2,0 Comparative Analysis of Alternatives
HI
As illustrated in Figure 2-2, the current alignment of Melrose Drive would be altered to
mt accommodate the proposed widening of Rancho Santa Fe Road. The Melrose Drive/Rancho
m Santa Fe Road intersection would be moved approximately 400 feet to the north of the present
intersection. Melrose Drive would be realigned from Cornita Drive/Melrose Drive intersection
where Melrose Drive would extend to the northwest to the realigned Melrose Drive/Rancho
Santa Fe Road intersection. Cornita Drive would be extended east to connect with the realigned
Melrose Drive.
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As illustrated in Figure 2-2, the approach to the bridge from La Costa Avenue would consist of
a realigned 7,000-foot section of Rancho Santa Fe Road. The right-of-way for the section from
La Costa Avenue to the bridge would be 126 feet. As shown in the attached maps, the APE for
this section of the roadway includes disturbance associated with construction staging areas as
well as removal of the existing Rancho Santa Fe Road within the vicinity of the new roadway.
2.2.2 Bridge Improvements
The new bridge over San Marcos Creek is planned to accommodate the Prime Arterial Roadway.
This bridge replacement proposed project would involve construction of a new bridge in a
location west of the existing bridge (see Figure 2-2). The existing bridge would be demolished.
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 bridge (see cross section in Figure 2-3). 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'x6'
columns and 12'xl2' footings.
2.2.3 Project Phasing
The proposed project is divided into two phases {see Figure 2-2). Both Phases 1 and 2 would be
constructed by the City.
Phase 1 includes the realigned 7,000 foot approach bridge from La Costa Avenue to immediately
south of Questhaven Road as well as vacation of the existing Rancho Santa Fe Road.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 2-5
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Proposed Prefect Description and
* Section 2.0 Comparative Analysis off Alternatives
Phase 2 includes the proposed bridge improvements as well as the 2,200-foot approach from
m Melrose Drive to approximately 600 feet south of the Questhaven Road/Rancho Santa Fe Road
^ intersection.
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2.2.4 Construction Activities. Funding and Timing
MR
• The City has identified construction activities necessary to complete grading for the roadway.
K As part of the Final Alignment studies the City identified construction staging areas as well as
locations for blasting operations. The proposed earthwork will be balanced between cut and fill.
Staging and blasting areas anticipated to be used during construction are included in the APE in
Figure 2-3.
Construction of the proposed project is scheduled to begin in 2001 fiscal year. Construction
activities will begin with Phase 1. Construction of Phase 1 will take approximately eighteen
* months. Construction of the Phase 2 is expected to begin in 2002 and will take approximately
eighteen months.
m 2.2.5 Existing Roadway Vacation
^ In association with completion of Phases 1 and 2 segments of the realigned roadway those
portions of existing Rancho Santa Fe Road that are no longer required as roads, will be vacated.
^ Figure 2-2 illustrates the roadway vacation that will occur during construction. Roadway
^ vacation illustrated in Figure 2-2 includes removal of the existing bridge.
2.2.6 Environmental Commitments of Proposed Proiect
mm> The City has incorporated as part of the proposed project a number of measures to reduce or
avoid potential environmental impacts associated with construction and operation of the
proposed project. All measures required for the roadway by the City 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:
tk
m Hazardous Materials
In the event that grading or construction of proposed facilities during both Phases
1 and 2 encounters onsite underground storage tanks or hazardous waste, the
April 2000 ____„^ 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 2-6
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Proposed Project Description and
Section 2.0 Comparative Analysis off Alternatives
Authority will ensure compliance with the State of California CCR Title 23
Health and Safety Regulations as managed by the San Diego County
Environmental Health Department, Hazardous Materials Management Division.
Paleontological Resources
• Prior to construction, the City shall provide certification that a qualified
paleontologist and/or paleontological monitor have been retained to implement
the construction monitoring program within appropriate geologic formations
(Santiago Formation). The verification shall be in the form of a letter addressed
to the City.
• The qualified paleontologist shall attend preconstruction meetings to make
comments and/or suggestions concerning the construction monitoring program.
The verification shall be in the form of a letter addressed to the City.
• In the event that unanticipated resources are discovered, the paleontologist shall
have the City to divert or temporarily halt ground disturbance operations in the
area of discovery to allow evaluation of potentially significant resources. The
paleontologist shall contact the City at the time of discovery. The significance of
the discovered resources shall be determined by the paleontologist, in consultation
with the City. The City must concur with the evaluation before construction
resumes.
• A monitoring report and/or evaluation report, if appropriate, which describes the
results, analysis, and conclusions to the paleontological monitoring program (with
appropriate graphics) shall be submitted to and approved by the City.
Air Quality
Measures incorporated into the proposed project to minimize air quality impacts include:
• 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.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 2-7
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Proposed Protect Description and
Section 2,0 Comparative Analysis off Alternatives
• Covering/tarping all vehicles hauling dirt or spoils on public roadways unless
additional moisture is added to prevent material blow-off during transport.
• Requiring low-NOj^-emission tuneups for all on-site construction equipment at a
minimum of 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.
• Scheduling partial of full street closures to off-peak traffic hours.
• The contractor will preform street sweeping should silt be carried over to adjacent
public thoroughfares.
• 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
— use low sulfur fuel (0.5% by weight) for construction equipment
• Bikeways will be provided along Rancho Santa Fe Road as required by the 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.
Earth Resources
• 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 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.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 2-8
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Proposed Proiect Description and
Section 2,0 Comparative Analysis off Alternatives
m
• The contractor will install temporary culverts, ditches, catchment basins, and
m settling pools where needed during construction to collect excess water and
il 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 an appropriate disposal site for hazardous
materials.
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^ Water Resources
• All erosion control measures required by the City Crading Ordinance for roadways
pi will be incorporated into the project.
IM • Project design will ensure that no additional runoff will drain into Stanley Mahr
Reservoir.
m
^ • 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 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
Ml — Periodic watering of areas to keep dust down
^ — Prompt revegetation of surrounding areas to prevent erosion
^ • The Storm Water 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 BMPs will include use of rip-rap at stormdrain outlets to
m 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.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment m Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 2-9
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Proposed Protect Description and
Section 2.0 Comparative Analysis off Alternatives
• When feasible, hauling by the developer will be accomplished in a manner that
minimizes the spillage of soil onto roads in developed areas.
• Refuse material such as oil, grease, and broken equipment generated during
grading will be property contained and removed offsite to a disposal site.
Biological Resources
ii
• The City is currently in the process of obtaining the necessary permits for wetland
Ml impacts. These permits include a Nationwide Permit in accordance with Section
li 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
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Quality Control Board (RWQCB) in accordance with Section 401 of the Clean
^ Water Act. These permits will be obtained prior to implementation of grading.
Ml • 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 proposed project impacts to southern willow scrub wetlands and
unvegetated stream channel will be minimized as follows:
^ — For impacts to wetlands habitats, the proposed project will include habitat
tm creation, restoration, enhancement or acquisition pursuant to permit
requirements of the ACOE and CDFG. The following ratios are included
for permanent impacts: for unvegetated stream channels, 1:1; for southern
will scrub, 3:1.
^ — Following demolition of the old bridge over San Marcos Creek, this area
^ will be restored to support southern willow scrub habitat.
M — 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.
^ • For permanent impacts to upland habitats associated with the roadway
realignment, the City purchased habitat credits in conformance with the 1996
Fieldstone Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP). The City has contributed
approximately two million dollars to the purchase of the mitigation property
identified as a part of the HCP for impacts associated with proposed project.
• Vegetation removal that is needed to accomplish the proposed project will be
conducted between 15 September and 15 February immediately prior to
construction.
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m Environmental Assessment m Ranctio Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 2-10
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^ Proposed Protect Description and
^ Section 2,0 Comparative Analysis off Alternatives
Mi
• All work will be conducted during the daytime hours; night lighting will not occur
PI except in an emergency situation.
ii
PB Noise
ii
• An eight-foot high sound wall to be located along the western right-of-way north
^ of Melrose Drive/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection will be developed as part of
* the proposed project. The eight-foot wall height is based on the acoustical
assessment prepared for the City of San Marcos to address the widening or
^ Rancho Santa Fe Road at this location (DUDEK, January 2000). Development of
this wall will ensure that future noise levels would not exceed FHWA/Caltrans
M" noise criteria.
^ • All City construction timing requirements would be adhered to as a part of
construction.
li • Stationary equipment will be placed such that emitted noise is directed away from
sensitive nosie receivers such as residential areas.
• Stockpiling and vehicle staging areas will be located as far as practical from
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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.
^ Light and Glare
^ • Directional street lighting will be utilized to direct lighting away from existing
residences.
• Use median landscaping within specifications of the City's Landscape Manual to
limit the effect of headlights to oncoming traffic.
* • All street lighting will be property directed so as to limit excess light from
m intruding into sensitive areas.
• City design will use low pressure sodium street lights for preservation of a "dark
H sky."
il April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 2-11
Proposed Protect Description and
Section 2,0 Comparative Analysis off Alternatives
Visual Quality/Landform Alteration
• 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 temporary exposed manufactured slopes necessary to accommodate the
roadway will be landscaped immediately with a hydroseed mix and jute matting.
• Step grading techniques where feasible will be used 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 hydroseed mix containing native drought tolerant species.
• Due to high visibility of the proposed manufactured slopes, cut slope areas
adjacent to natural areas, where feasible (shrubs & trees nay not survive in cut
areas that expose rocky surfaces), will be planted with native, drought tolerant
shrubs and trees. All cut slopes will be treated with a hydroseed mix containing
native species. Planting will occur within three months after grading and will be
temporary irrigated until plants become established.
• All landscaping on manufactured slopes, as well as the roadway median will
comply with the guidelines of the City of Carlsbad Scenic Corridor Guidelines
Manual.
Traffic/Circulation
• A configuration for the Melrose Drive/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection has
been established by the Final Alignment studies that is consistent with circulation
element of the General Plan.
• 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
Road/Cadencia Street intersection.
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Environmental Assessment • Ranctio Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 2-12
p* Proposed Protect Description and
Section 2,0 Comparative Analysis off Alternatives
** •A traffic control plan will be prepared for approval by the City and Caltrans. The
traffic control plan will show all signage, striping, delineate detours, flagging
^ operations, and any other devices which will be used during construction to guide
motorists safely through the construction zone. The traffic control plan will also
^ include provisions for coordinating with local emergency service providers
regarding construction times and locations of lane closures as well as specifications
for bicycle lane safety. The City's construction contractors will coordinate traffic
diversions, street and lane closures, and obstruction of intersections with the
City's engineering department prior to commencing construction activities
through th development of routing and detour studies.
2.3 Analysis of Altematives
2.3.1 No Project Alternative
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Under the No Project Alternative, the existing route of travel would remain and the capacity of
Rancho Santa Fe Road would be unchanged. The bridge over San Marcos Creek would not be
disturbed or altered. Existing traffic flow patterns would remain unchanged "from existing
conditions.
With implementation of the No Project Alternative, the levels of service improvements associated
with the proposed project would not be realized. As discussed in SECTION 1.0, the purpose of the
project is to implement the transportation requirements of the City of Carlsbad General Plan.
Community benefits would 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.
2.3.2 Alternatives Withdrawn from Further Consideration
Widening Existing Alignment of Rancho Santa Fe Road
The EIR evaluated widening the existing Rancho Santa Fe Road from La Costa Avenue to
Melrose Drive to 126-foot right-of-way and to six lanes.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Ranctio Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 2-13
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Proposed Protect Description and
^ Section 2,0 Comparative Analysis off Alternatives
^ —
Impacts Reduced
The EIR concluded that widening the existing roadway would cause approximately the same
level of impacts as the proposed project over the long term. This conclusion applied to the
environmental issues of Earth Resources, Air Quality, Water Resources, Biological Resources,
Noise, Light and Glare, and Land Use, Traffic Circulation, Public Services, Utilities, and Landform
pi Alteration/Visual Quality.
Comf^arative Analysis
Widening the existing alignment was rejected by the City in consideration of the following
comparison with the proposed project.
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• Increased levels of noise to nearby residents of the La Costa Vale subdivision
w resulting from greater levels of traffic on Rancho Santa Fe Road.
^ • Absence of an appropriate funding mechanism for roadway expansion with the
^ deference of grading to future development which would form an Assessment
^ District for Financing.
^ Alternatives Evaluated for Minimizing/Avoiding Impacts to Wetlands
^ As discussed in SECTION 2.2.6, measures consistent with the adopted HCP for the area have been
ta incorporated into the proposed project to address impacts related to upland biological resources.
In addition, as discussed above, the City has chosen the proposed project to avoid adverse land
use, visual and traffic noise impacts to existing residences located north of the La Costa
^ Avenue/Rancho Santa Fe Road. As a result, the only issue that was determined necessary to
address through use of alternatives would be minimizing permanent and temporary impacts to
^ 1.95 acres of wetlands and jurisdictional waters disturbed by the project. The City developed the
following alternatives designed to avoid or minimize impacts to 0.27 acre of wetland area located
in the northeastern portion of the Phase 1 APE.
Hi
Alternatives to avoid the remaining 1.68 acres of wetland were considered infeasible due to the
y type of project proposed and the location of the wetlands. Impacts to the 1.68 acres of wetlands
remaining are either associated with the bridge crossing, perpendicular crossings of unvegetated
E drainage channels or temporary impacts associated with construction. The bridge crossing
location was chosen to minimize the length of additional roadway required to access the new
bridge and to avoid direct impacts to adjacent existing industrial uses. Perpendicular crossings
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April 2000 1576-03
fP Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 2-14
i.
Proposed Protect Description and
^ Section 2.0 Comparative Analysis off Alternatives
ta
of unvegetated waters in the southern portion of the alignment could not be avoided without
pi a substantial realignment of the roadway to the east. The roadway cannot be realigned to the
west without directly impacting existing residences. Wetland areas temporarily disturbed in
association with the bridge construction would be revegetated and the existing terrain contours
* would be restored to preexisting conditions,
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^ Alternative 1
li
Alternative 1 consists of an identical horizontal and vertical alignment as described for in the
^ proposed project. However, the east side of the alignment near the peak of the curve would be
supported by a crib wall.
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il Impacts Reduced
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to
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This crib wall would prevent intrusion of manufactured slopes into the 0.27 acre wetland in the
north-south unnamed tributaries of San Marcos Creek.
^ Comparative Analysis
Considering that implementation of Alternative 1 would result in additional impacts to existing
visual quality associated with the crib wall from that associated with the proposed project.
Alternative 1 was rejected from further consideration.
Alternative 2
Alternative 2 consists of an identical horizontal and vertical alignment as described for the
proposed project less the following alterations. The peak of the main curve near the south end
of the proposed alignment would be approximately 200 feet west. This would set the furthest
point of the proposed alignment approximately 1,000 feet from the existing Rancho Santa Fe
Road alignment.
Impacts Reduced
This alignment would prevent impacts to the 0.27 acre wetlands area in north-south unnamed
tributaries located near the vicinity of the proposed roadway curve. The roadway would cross
an east-west drainage, causing impacts due to fill for the supporting slopes.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Ranctio Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 2-15
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to
^ Proposed Project Description and
^ Section 2,0 Comparative Analysis off Alternatives
mm
^ Comparative Analysis
gl This alignment would conflict with an existing power tower and corresponding poles. These
" facilities would be relocated and/or reconstructed in conjunction with the construction of this
F alternative. In addition, a 1,200-foot long retaining wall, beginning approximately 1,200 feet
b north of the La Costa Avenue/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection and ending at this intersection,
would be included in order to provide roadway support. Considering that implementation of
^ Alternative 2 would result in additional impacts to utilities and visual impacts associated with
the retaining wall from that associated with the proposed project. Alternative 2 was rejected
from further consideration.
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Alternative 3
Alternative 3 consists of an identical horizontal and vertical alignment as described for the
proposed project less the following alterations. The peak of the main curve near the south end
of the proposed alignment would be moved approximately 200 feet west. This would set the
furthest point of the proposed alignment approximately 1,000 feet from the existing Rancho
Santa Fe Road Alignment.
Impacts Reduced
This alignment would prevent impacts to the 0.27 acre wetlands area in the north-south
unnamed tributaries located near the vicinity of the proposed roadway curve. The east-west
drainage which runs perpendicular to the peak curve, would not be impacted due to the addition
of a 900-foot bridge.
Comparative Analysis
Considering that measures have been incorporated into the proposed project to reduce impacts
to wetland to below a level of significance and that construction of an additional bridge would
be cost prohibitive and could create impacts with respect to visual quality and coordination with
planned adjacent development that would not be associated with the proposed project,
Alternative 3 was rejected from further consideration.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 2-16
Proposed Protect Description and
^ Section 2,0 Comparative Analysis off Alternatives
ta Alternative 4
^ Alternative 4 would generally follow the existing alignment of Rancho Santa Fe Road. However,
approximately 200 feet north of the junction of Rancho Santa Fe Road and Questhaven Road,
pa the proposed project would leave the existing roadbed and travel west, generally paralleling the
^ existing curve located immediately south of Questhaven Road and finally rejoining the existing
alignment approximately 2,000 feet south of its departure location.
Impacts Reduced
^ This alignment would reduce impacts to the 0.27 acre wetland area in the unnamed north-south
trending tributary that would be impacted by the proposed project.
to Comparative Analysis
^ The area where the roadway under Alternative 4 would leave the existing alignment would
^ involve filling additional wetlands within several unnamed east-west and north-south tributaries
tm> located immediately west of the current Rancho Santa Fe Road/Questhaven Road junction that
^ would not be associated with the proposed project. Considering that Alternative 4 would result
in increased impacts to wetlands from that associated with the proposed project, this alternative
^ was rejected from further consideration.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 2-17
SECTION 3.0
ArrECTCD ENVIRONMENT
The general environmental setting for proposed project's APE is described below. More detailed
discussion on the affected environment for. each environmental issue category is provided in
SECTION 5.0, Discussion of Environmental Evaluation.
The APE for Phases 1 and 2 is located along the existing route of Rancho Santa Fe Road on the
eastern edge of the City of Carlsbad. Currently, land within the APE boundary is undeveloped
with the exception of the roadway. Rancho Santa Fe Road conveys traffic within the City of
Carlsbad and between the surrounding cities of Encinitas, Vista and San Marcos. Unincorporated
land to the east also contributes traffic to the roadway. The existing two-lane road is planned
as a six-lane prime arterial in the Circulation Element of the General Plan. A short section of
Questhaven Road and its intersection with Rancho Santa Fe Road lie within the extreme
northeast corner of the APE.
Site topography within the APE is rolling terrain, underlain by resistant volcanic rock on uplands,
and alluvium in canyons. Steep slopes are present within the APE. Two stream channels dissect
the surface; San Marcos Creek flows east to west through the northern APE boundary, and a
small tributary to Encinitas Creek flows southwest from the highest ground to meet Batiquitos
Lagoon. Vegetation within the APE is characterized by native vegetation which includes coastal
sage scrub, chaparral, and grassland vegetation on uplands and oak woodland, Valley oak,
sycamore, eucalyptus and riparian woodland vegetation near watercourses. The vegetation in
the area south of the bridge burned in 1996 and is currently recovering. Relatively little
disturbance associated with development has occurred within most portions of the APE.
Evidence of mining activity associated with excavations and waste fill are present on the site.
The 18.6-acre Stanley Mahr Reservoir lies to the east portion of the Phase 1 APE, and the 2.7-acre
Denk Reservoir lies approximately 200 yards directly to the south. Other characteristics to the
east of the Phase 1 APE include the existence of a 100-foot wide San Diego Gas and Electric
easement with wood pole and lattice tower supported electric lines, a 200-foot wide San Diego
Gas and Electric easement (presently unutilized), a 150-foot wide San Diego Gas and Electric
easement with steel tower supported electric lines, and two buried water pipes associated with
the reservoirs.
Surrounding areas are characterized by a mixture of rural and urbanized lands, and contain
residential developments to the south, west and north, and industrial development to the
northeast. Vacant land in the undeveloped County area lies to the east, and developing land
to within the City of San Marcos lies to the northeast.
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April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Ranctio Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 3-1
Section 3,0 Affected Environment
The geology within the APE site ranges from Jurassic-aged Santiago Peak Volcanics, Cretaceous-
aged granitic rock, and the Eocene-aged Del Mar Formation as bedrock underlying the majority
of the proposed project site. Terrace deposits, alluvium, landslide debris, and slopewash comprise
local surficial deposits. The prominent soil association located in the area is the Exchequer,
rocky-Blasingame association, with the Diablo-Altamont association existing in the northwestern
portions.
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April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 3-2
SECTION 4.0
ENVIBONNENTAL EVALUATION
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The EA is based on the Final EIR, Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Mass Grading (SCH
9OO'i0850), dated April 3, 1992, the Addendum to the Final EIR dated February 2000 as well as
a number of technical studies. The following technical study reports and documents are
incorporated by reference to this Environmental Assessment and are available for review at the
Caltrans District Office, 2829 Juan Street, San Diego, California 92110.
• Agra Environmental, 1998. Geotechnical Study.
• Carlsbad, City of. 1992 as Addended, 1996 and 2000. Final Environmental Impact
Report for the Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Mass Grading (SCH
#90010850).
• Dudek & Associates, Inc., March 24, 1997. Water Quality Study, Rancho Santa Fe
Bridge Replacement Project.
• Dudek & Associates, Inc., April 2000. Visual Assessment of Rancho Santa Fe Road
Bridge Replacement.
• Dudek & Associates, Inc., April 7, 1997. Phase 1 Environmental Assessment, Rancho
Santa Fe Bridge Replacement Project.
• Dudek & Associates, Inc., January 12, 2000. Floodplain Evaluation Report, Rancho
Santa Fe Bridge Replacement Project.
• Dudek & Associates, January 2000. Acoustical Assessment Report Rancho Santa Fe
Bridge Replacement Project
• Dudek & Associates, April 2000. Biological 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
• Giroux & Associates, March 2000, Air Quality Impact Analysis for Rancho Santa Fe
Roadway Realignment and Bridge Replacement Project
• Vista Info, March 2000. Site Assessment - Special Project (Phase 1 APE)
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 4-1
Section 4,0 Environmental Evaluation
4.1 Environmental Significance Checklist
IP
ll
The following Caltrans Environmental Significance Checklist was used to identify physical,
biological, social and economic factors which might be impacted by the proposed project. The
FHWA Technical Advisory T6440.8a and the September 3,1998 FHWA Environmental Checklist
for Draft Documents with also used to determine significance and the environmental issues
addressed in the EA. In many cases, the background studies performed in connection with this
project clearly indicate the project will not affect a particular item. A "NO" answer in the first
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column documents this determination. The discussion in SECTION 5.0 following the checklist
provides the rationale for the determinations made in the checklist.
ip Yes or No
If Yes, Is It
Significant?
Yes or No
PHYSICAL - Will the proposal efther directly or indirectly:
im 1. Appreciably cliange the topography or ground surface relief features? Yes No im
2. Destroy, cover, or modify any unique geologic, paleontologic, or physical features? Yes No
to
3. Result in unstable earth surfaces or increase the exposure of people or property to
geologic or seismic hazards?
Yes No
4. Result in or be affected by soil erosion or siltation {whether by water or wind)? Yes No
r* 5. Result in the increased use of fuel or energy in large amounts or in a wasteftil manner? No
ta 6. Result in an increase in the rate of use of any natural resource? No
f" 7, Result in the substantial depletion of any nonrenewable resource? No
ta 8. Violate any published Federal, State, or local standards pertaining to hazardous waste,
solid waste or litter control?
No
fM 9. Modify the channel of a river or stream or the bed of the ocean or any inlet or lalte? Yes No
to 10. Encroach upon a flood plain or result in or be affected by flood waters or tidal waves? Yes No
ta
11. Adversely affect the quantity or quality of surface water, groundwater, or public water
supply?
Yes No
ta
12. Result in the use of water in large amounts or in a wasteful manner? No
PR 13. Affect wetlands or riparian vegetation? Yes No
to 14. Violate or be inconsistent with Federal, State, or local water quality standards? No
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15. Result in changes in air movement, moisture, or temperature, or any climatic conditions? No tm
to 16. Result in an increase in air pollutant emission, adverse effects on or deterioration of
ambient air quality?
Yes No
to 17, Result in the creation of objectionable odors? No
to 18. Violate or be inconsistent with Federal, State, or local air standards or control studies? No
1 g. Result in an increase in noise levels or vibration for adjoining areas? Yes No
PR
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pp Environmental Assessment m Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 4-2
Section 4,0 Environmental Evaluation
Yes or No
If Yes, Is It
Significant?
Yes or No
20. Result In any Federal, State, or local noise criteria being equal or exceeded? Yes No
21. Produce new light glare, or shadows? Yes No
BIOLOGICAL - Will the proposal result in (either directly or indirectly):
22. Change in the diversity of species or numbers of any species of plants (including trees,
shrubs, grass, micro flora, and aquatic plants)?
Yes No
23. Reduction of ttie numbers of or encroachment the critical habitat of any unique,
threatened or endangered species or plants?
Yes No
24. Introduction of new species of plants into an area, or result in a barrier to the normal
replenishment of existing species?
Yes No
25. Reduction in acreage of any agricultural crop or commercial timber stand, or affect
prime, unique, or other familand of State or local importance?
Yes No
26. Removal or deterioration of existing fish or wildlife habitat? Yes No
27. Change in ttie diversity of species, or numbers of any species of animals (birds, land
animals including reptiles, fish and shellfish, benthic organisms, insects or micro fauna)?
Yes No
28. Reduction of ttie number of or numbers of or encroachment upon ttie critical habitat of
any unique, threatened or endangered species of animals?
Yes No
29. Inti'oduction of new species of animals into an area, or result in a bairier to ttie migration
or movement of animals?
Yes No
SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC - Will ttie proposal directiy or indirectly:
30. Cause disruption of orderiy planned development? No
31. Be inconsistent witti any elements of adopted community studies, policies or goals? No
32. Be inconsistent witti a Costal Zone Management Plan? No
33. Affect the location, disti-lbution, density, or growth rate of the human population of an
area?
No
34. Affect life-styles, or neighborhood character or stability? No
35. Affect minority, elderly, handicapped, transit-dependent, or otiier specific interest
groups?
No
36. Divide or disrupt an established community? No
37. Affect existing housing, require the acquisition of residential improvements or tiie
displacement of people or create a demand for additional housing?
No
38. Affect employment, industiy or commerce, or require tiie displacement of businesses or
farms?
Yes No
39. Affect property values or the local tax base? Yes No
40. Affect any community facilities (including medical, educational, scientific, recreational, or
religious institutions, ceremonial sites or sacred shrines)?
No
41. Affect public utilities, or police, tire, emergency or otiier public services? No
42. Have substantial impact on existing transportation systems or alter present pattems of
circulation or movement of people and/or goods?
Yes No
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Ranctio Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 4-3
Section 4,0 Environmental Evaluation
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Yes or No
If Yes, Is It
Significant?
Yes or No
43. Generate additional traffic? No
44. Affect or be affected by existing parking facilities or result in demand for new parking? No
45. Involve a substantial risk of an explosion or tiie release of hazardous substances in ttie
event of an accident or otiierwise adversely affect overall public safety?
No
46. Result in alterations to watert)orne, rail or air ft-affic? No
47. Support large commercial or residential development? Yes No
48. Affect a significant archaeological or historic site, stt-uctijre, object, or building? No
49. Affect wild or scenic rivers or natijral landmarks? No
50. Affect any scenic resources or result in tiie obsh-uction of any scenic vista or view open
to the public, or creation of an aesthetically offensive site open to public view?
Yes No
51. Result in substantial impacts associated witii consti'uction activities (e.g., noise, dust,
temporary drainage, traffic detours and temporary access, etc.)?
Yes No
52. Result in ttie use of any publicly-owned land from a park, recreation area, or wildlife and
waterfowl refuge?
No
MANDATORY FINDINGS OR SIGNIFICANCE
53. Does tiie project have the potential to substantially degrade tiie quality of the
environment substantially reduce the habitat of a tish or wildlife species, cause a fish or
wildlife population to drop below self-sus^ining levels, ttireaten to eliminate a plant or
animal community, reduce tiie number or restt'ict ttie range of a rare or endangered plant
or animal or eliminate important examples ofthe major periods of Califomia history or
prehistory?
No
54. Does ttie project have ttie potential to achieve short-temi, to ttie disadvantage of long-
term, environmental goals? {A short-term impact on the environment is one which
occurs in a relatively brief, definitive period of time while long-term impacts will endure
well into the fuhjre.)
No
55. Does tiie project have environmental effects which are individually limited, but
cumulatively considerable? Cumulatively considerable means tiiat tiie incremental
effects of an individual project are considerable when viewed in connection witti tiie
effects of other current projects, and ttie effects of probable future projects. It includes
the effects of other projects which interact witti ttiis project and, togettier, are
considerable.
No
56. Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects
on human beings, eittier directiy or indirectiy?
No
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April 2000
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement
1576-03
4-4
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SECTION 5.0
DISCUSSION or ENVIRONMENTAL
EVALUATION AND MITIGATION MEASURES
This Section describes the proposed project's environmental impacts using Caltran's
Environmental Significance Checklist in SECTION4.0, the FHA Technical Advisory T6440.8a and
^ the September 3, 1998 FHWA Environmental Checklist for Draft Documents to focus the
discussion. The number in parenthesis preceding each title refers to its number on Caltran's
^ Environmental Significance Checklist.
^ 5.1 Physical Environment
5.1.1 TopographyA/isual Resources f#s 1. 2. 9. 21. 49. 50)
Affected Environment
m
* Phase 1
^ As shown in Figure 2-2, the visual character of the area in the vicinity of the Phase 1 portion of
the proposed project is characterized by vacant land with single family residential uses located
m adjacent to major roadways. The APE is immediately surrounded by vacant land comprised of
km rugged topography and drainages that extend from a larger hill located to the east. The visual
character of the hills as well as the drainages are characterized by native vegetation that has
recently grown back from a 1997 fire. Unobstructed views of the area proposed for the roadway
* are available from these vacant hillside areas as well as from residences located immediately north
of the Rancho Santa Fe Road/La Costa Avenue intersection.
tMI
Applicable Planning Documents
mm
*• The visual character of the area immediately surrounding the roadway will change with buildout
^ of the City of Carlsbad General Plan. The vacant hillsides are planned to be developed with a
^ mixed use development including residential and commercial uses (referred to as Carlsbad
Village). These uses would be developed adjacent to the roadway. Impacts of the mixed use
^ development as well as the visual impacts of the roadway were evaluated in the EIR prepared
W by the City in 1992.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment 4 Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-1
Discussion of Cnv. Evaluation
Section 8.0 and Mitigation Measures
* According to the City of Carlsbad General Plan, Rancho Santa Fe Road is considered to be a
Community Scenic Corridor. Community scenic corridors interconnect major subareas of the
1^ present and planned Carlsbad community and are subject to the Carlsbad Scenic Corridor
Guidelines Manual.
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* Phase 2
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^ As shown in Figure 2-2 and 5.1-1 through 5-1-4 the existing Rancho Santa Fe Road consists of two
paved lanes with an asphalt berm on the west side and a combination of asphalt berm and
* concrete curb on the east side. A truck by-pass route creates a three-plane paved road with
asphalt berm on both sides in uphill areas of the stretch. San Marcos Creek is crossed by an
existing bridge which is located between the Questhaven Road intersection and the Melrose
Drive intersection. Rancho Santa Fe Road has two northbound lanes and one southbound lane
across the San Marcos Creek Bridge.
to
il The topography of the proposed project site is characterized by undulating terrain that drains
to San Marcos Creek. Large hills surrounding that existing roadway range from 700 feet above
mean sea level (msl) to 1,400 feet above msl. The existing Rancho Santa Fe Road alignment
extends through the lower elevations and level terrain (300-600 feet above msl) at the base of the
larger hillsides.
k
Pi
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to The hills in the proposed project vicinity are predominantly vacant land typically covered by
to dense chaparral vegetation. In 1996, a fire burned a majority of the area immediately to the east
ll and southwest of the proposed project site leaving the hillsides generally clear of vegetation.
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Existing urban land uses in the immediate vicinity of the proposed improvements include the
existing Rancho Santa Fe Road alignment, an industrial park, and two single-family detached
residential developments as well as vacant land associated with San Marcos Creek and the
surrounding hills.
A majority of the area immediately surrounding the site consists of vacant hillsides. Generally
unobstructed views of portions or all of the roadway are available from these hillsides. Views of
p the site from the more level San Marcos Creek area to the east of the site are partially to
^ completely obscured by intervening topography or structures. The site is visible from the eastern
units located within the residential development adjacent to Corintia Avenue. Unobstructed
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-2
_
SOURCE: Dudek & Associates, Inc. Proposed View
Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment • Environmental Assessment
Bridge Replacement Visual Simulation
FIGURE
5.1-1
SOURCE: Dudek & Associates, Inc. Proposed View
Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment - Environmental Assessment
View of Roadway and Bridge looking Southbound on Rancho Santa Fe Road
FIGURE
5.1-2
J
SOURCE: Dudek & Associates, Inc. Proposed View
Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment • Environmental Assessment
View of Roadway and Manufactured Sopes looking Southbound on Rancho Santa Fe Road
FIGURE
5.1-3
SOURCE: Dudek & Associates, Inc. Proposed View
Existing View
Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment - Environmental Assessment
View of Roadway and Bridge from Existing Residences
FIGURE
5.1-4
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Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5-0 and Mitigation Measures
views of the site are available from the three industrial and office structures that are located
adjacent to the existing roadway to the east as well as from a portion of the residential
development located to the east of Rancho Santa Fe Road.
W Applicable Planning Documents
h
The visual character of the area surrounding the southern portion of the proposed alignment will
change as the City General Plan is built out. As discussed above, the southern portion of the
roadway alignment under both alternatives is currently surrounded by vacant land. These vacant
areas will eventually be developed with single family residential uses in accordance with the City
of Carlsbad General Plan. The General Plan designates Low Density Residential (0-1.5 DU/acre)
for the area to the east of the roadway. The vacant area immediately to the west of the roadway
will eventually be developed with Low-Medium Density Residential (0-4 DU/acre) uses.
Environmental Evaluation
Environmental consequences of the proposed project on the existing visual quality have been
evaluated for both Phases 1 and 2 by the 1992 EIR and supplemented by additional visual analysis
to address design level information associated with the Final Alignment Studies. Supplemental
visual analysis was completed for Phase 2 by Dudek & Associates (DUDEK) in 1997 Visual
Assessment for the Rancho Santa Fe Road Bridge Replacement Project. These studies are
incorporated by reference to this document and are available for review at Caltrans.
Phase 1
The proposed project design incorporates the measures to minimize potential impacts to existing
land forms and visual quality to less than significant. These measures are listed in SECTION 2.2.6
of this EA. These measures include landscaping all manufactured slopes with a native hydroseed
mix. Shrubs and trees will be planted on manufactured slopes that are not characterized by
rocky exposed surfaces. The City will also incorporate step/contour grading techniques, where
feasible, to simulate natural terrain. Considering that measures have been incorporated into the
design of the manufactured slopes consistent with the Carlsbad Scenic Corridor guidelines and
Hillside Development Regulations to minimize visual impacts the project would not result in
significant impacts to the existing character of the area. Therefore, no mitigation is required.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-7
^ Discussion of Env. Evaluation
^ Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
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The area immediately surrounding the length of the roadway within Phase 1 APE is planned for
multi use development by the City. Extension of a roadway is considered to be visually
compatible with a mixed use development. The project would, not result in significant adverse
impacts to the planned urban visual character of the area and mitigation is not required.
m
Phase 2
A separate visual assessment was prepared by the City using federally accepted visual assessment
methodology for the bridge replacement portion of the proposed project in 1997 to further define
measures necessary to reduce visual impacts associated with manufactured slopes identified in
the Final Alignment studies (DUDEK, April 2000). Preparation of the technical study was
completed in accordance with the requirement of the EIR that grading from hillsides be designed
to maintain the appearance of natural slopes where possible. The visual assessment, summarized
below, is incorporated by reference to this document and is available for review at Caltrans.
Measures required in the visual assessment for potential impacts to visual quality associated with
exposed manufactured slopes have been incorporated into the proposed project (see SECTION 2.2.6
of this EA).
Proposed Grading and Bridge Improvements for Final Alignment (Phase 2)
Grading necessary to construct the bridge design as well as the intersections associated with
Phase 2, would involve the use of fill and cut slopes. Two fill slopes ranging in height from 15
to 20 feet are proposed immediately to the south and north of the proposed bridge. Minor fill
slopes (<10 feet in height) are proposed in association with improvements to Questhaven and
La Costa Meadows Drive. Grading along the western portion of the road alignment would
involve construction of three cut slopes of 16, 40 and 50 feet in height.
Bridge improvements would include replacement of the existing bridge with a single bridge. The
new surface of the bridge would be approximately 7-12 feet taller than the existing facility. The
appearance of the bridge as well as grading associated with bridge improvements alternatives is
illustrated mFigure 5.1-1. As shown mFigure 5-1-1, the bridge facility would be relocated east of
the existing bridge and involve removal of existing mature trees. The existing bridge is
approximately 45 feet wide and 11 feet higher than the elevation at the floor of San Marcos
Creek drainage (approximately 327 feet above mean sea level (msl) at the lowest point. Based
on the conceptual roadway design, the surface of the proposed facilities would be approximately
126 feet wide and e located at an elevation of 345-350 feet msl, which is approximately 18-23 feet
to higher than the lowest elevation of the San Marcos Creek drainage.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-8
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Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5,0 and Mitigation Measures
Impacts to Views from Existing and Planned Surrounding Land Uses (Phase 2)
• Views from the Planned Roadway
Views from the proposed roadway are illustrated in Figures 5-1-2 and 5- 1-S. The vantage point
for the simulation in Figure 5.1-2 is from the proposed roadway approximately 500 feet north of
the bridge looking south. The vantage point for the simulation in Figure 5.1-3 is from the
proposed roadway immediately south of the bridge looking south.
Views of proposed manufactured slopes from the roadway are illustrated mFigure 5.1-2 and 5.1-3.
As shown in Figure 5.1-2 and 5.1-3, use of manufactured (primarily fill) slopes, measuring 16, 40
^ and 50, feet in height along the southern portion of the roadway would alter the existing
^ topography as well as the visual character of the immediate vicinity. The proposed roadway
would be located in an area characterized by undulating terrain. Upon implementation of the
proposed project, views from the road for north and southbound travelers within the APE would
k include manufactured slopes that extend for approximately 1,600 feet along the western portion
of the right-of-way and 1,200 feet of smaller (up to 16 feet in height) cut slopes along the eastern
portion of the right-of-way {see Figure 2-2 for plan view of manufactured slopes). Measures have
been incorporated into the design of the proposed project to reduce the impacts of these slopes
^ to below a level of significance including landscaping accordance with City standards, contour
^ grading of slopes to simulate terrain and use of erosion control measures. Measures incorporated
into the proposed project design are listed in SECTION 2.2.6 of this EA. The manufactured fill
slopes shown in Figures 5-1-2 and 5-1-3 illustrate the manufactures slopes as they would appear
^ with landscaping.
^ Views of the proposed bridge improvements and associated manufactured slopes from
southbound travelers on Rancho Santa Fe Road are illustrated mFigure 5.1-2. As shown mFigure
^ 5-1-2 implementation of the bridge and slope improvements would not substantially change the
to visual character of the area from this vantage point. View of this area from the roadway
currently include industrial structures as well as bridge and roadway facilities. While the
proposed bridge would represent an increase in scale from the existing structure the proposed
bridge would not be substantially taller than the existing structure. Therefore, the bridge
ipr structure would not block or obscure any views of natural features such as the hillsides or the
^ creek by motorists. Therefore, significant impacts to views from motorists on Rancho Santa Fe
Road have not been identified.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment m Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-9
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^ Discussion of Env. Evaluation
^ Section S.0 and Mitigation Measures
Installation of the bridge would involve removal of mature trees primarily eucalyptus in vicinity
of the bridge. Approximately 6-8 mature trees would be removed. All trees removed would be
|g replaced in accordance with City of Carlsbad standards. As shown on Figure 5-1-2, some existing
mature trees surrounding the creek and located at the base of the hill to the northwest of the
creek in the area would remain following bridge construction. Considering that only 6-8 trees
ta would be removed and that the existing visual character of the area is dominated by urban uses
including industrial structures and roadways, removal of the trees is not considered to be a
significant adverse impact on the visual character of the area.
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• Views from Existing Residences (Phase 2)
From the residential area north of Corintia (see Figure 2-2 for location of existing residences north
of Corintia), the replacement bridge would represent an increase in facility size (see Figure 5-1-4).
Although the proposed bridge would represent a substantial increase in size compared to the
existing bridge, the improvements would not substantially alter any foreground views from the
residences. Based on the distance of the residential area from the bridge facilities (approximately
1,000 to 1,500 feet), the change would affect only long range views, which would not be regarded
as adverse. In addition, the type of uses available within the long range view from the residences
would not be substantially altered by the proposed facilities. The existing view includes a bridge
and roadway facilities similar to that proposed. It should also be noted that from the residential
areas, views of the facility would be partially obscured by existing mature eucalyptus trees and
riparian vegetation associated with San Marcos Creek. As a result, implementation of the Phase
2 portion of the proposed project would not result in significant impacts to views from
residences.
• Visual Impact to Planned Surrounding Land Uses (Phase 2)
Planned residential uses the Meadowlands project northeast of the Rancho Santa Fe Road/
Melrose Drive intersections located in proximity to the roadway would have unobstructed views
of the bridge replacement. However, the foreground views from the planned residences would
be similar to the foreground and distant views from the residences and vehicles on the roadway
(see Figures 5-1-2 and 5-1-4). The prominent visual features of the area include predominantly
urban uses including the existing roadway, and the light industrial complex. As a result,
expansion of the existing roadway in the foreground views from the planned residences is not
regarded as a significant impact of the proposed project.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-10
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p Discussion of Env. Evaluation
^ Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
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Combined Evaluation for Phases 1 and 2
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to As discussed above, measures have been incorporated into the proposed project for both Phases
1 and 2 that would reduce impacts to visual quality from planned and existing land uses to below
a level of significance. These measures including landscaping and contour grading of
manufactured slopes would also avoid any significant impacts associated with the ultimate
buildout of Phases 1 and 2 of the roadway.
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5.1.2 Geologic Features/Hazards/Paleontology f#s 2. 3. 4)
Affected Environment
m
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Phases 1 and 2
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to Geotechnical analysis have been completed for the APE for both Phases 1 and 2. The Phase 1 APE
was addressed by a Geocon Report included as APPENDIX C of the EIR. Supplemental
geotechnical analysis has been prepared by the City for the Phase 2 APE by Agra Environmental
to address the Final Alignment studies (Agra Environmentai, 1998). These studies are
p« incorporated be reference to this EA and are available for review at Caltrans.
Proposed project site topography is rolling terrain underlain by resistant volcanic rock on uplands
^ and alluvium in canyons. The geology of the site ranges from Jurassic aged Santiago Peak
*• Volcanics, Cretaceous-ages granitic rock and the Eocene-aged Del Mar Formation as bedrock
^ underlying a majority of the proposed project site. Terrace deposits, alluvium landslide debris
^ and slopewash compromise local surficial deposits. The prominent soil association located in the
area is the Exchequer, rocky Blasingame association, with the Diablo Altamont association
existing in the northwestern portions of the APE for the proposed project.
p. Combined Evaluation for Phases 1 and 2
to
Implementation of the Final Alignment for both Phases 1 and 2 would not increase the exposure
P of people or property to significant geologic or seismic hazards or result in any impacts to unique
ta geologic features. The Final Alignment studies prepared for the proposed project would
implement all requirements of the geotechnical reports prepared by the City for the roadway
realignment or the bridge replacement. The limits for Phases 1 and 2 APE Final Alignment
studies substantially conform with the limit of grading for the roadway alignment from that
April 2000 1576-03
_ Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-11
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Discussion of Env. Evaluation
^ Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
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anticipated in the EIR. As a result, no new formations or soil types would be disturbed and the
analysis completed by Geocon would apply to the Final Alignment studies for Phase 1. In
addition, no manufactured slopes proposed as a part of the proposed project that would exceed
the 100-foot maximum height identified in the EIR. As discussed in SECTION 2.2.6of this EA, all
improvements associated with Phase 1 Final Alignment studies will be completed in accordance
with the requirements of the geotechnical analysis included as APPENDIX C of the EIR. In
^ addition, measures required by the Agra Environmental reports completed for Phase 2 Final
Alignment studies to avoid geotechnical hazards such as soil instability, erosion or dam
instability from blasting represent refinements to the measures called for the in geotechnical
pi report prepared for the Geocon study. Considering that measures of both the Geocon and Agra
k studies have been incorporated into the proposed project, impacts due to geologic hazards are
anticipated to be less than significant.
^ Based on the geotechnical analysis conducted for the proposed project, the roadway proposed
within Phase 1 would cross several geologic underlying formations. A majority of the Final
^ Alignment Studies for Phase 1 would extend through Tertiary Age Santiago Formation. The
Santiago Formation is considered to be a high sensitivity formation that is known to contain
^ paleontological localities with rare, well preserved, and critical fossil materials. As discussed in
to SECTION 2.2.6 of this EA, measures have been incorporated into the proposed project, including
the requirement that a paleontologist be present on site during construction, to avoid potential
impacts to paleontological resources. Therefore, impacts to paleontological resources are
considered to be less than significant.
I- 5.1.3 Energy/Natural Resource/Water Demand (#s 5. 6. 7.12)
^ Combined Evaluation for Phases 1 and 2
^ Implementation of the proposed project for Phases 1 and 2 would not generate any long term
demand for energy, water, natural or nonrenewable resources. The proposed project involves
the realignment and widening of an existing roadway to reduce traffic congestion in the proposed
^ project area and implement the Circulation Element of the General Plan. The Circulation
Element provides for transportation elements necessary to accommodate both existing demand
P and planned growth within the City. Considering that the proposed project would not generate
ta population growth no substantial demand for natural resources other that for materials required
to constructed the road would be created. Therefore, impacts to energy/natural resource is
^ considered to be less than significant, to
1^
to
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Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
Water would be required for construction activities including dust suppression. However, use
of water during construction activities would be temporary (each phase would require an
eighteen-month construction period), therefore implementation of the proposed project would
not result in use of large amounts of water in a wasteful manner.
5.1.4 Hazardous Materials (#s 8. 45. 56)
F
k The following information was obtained from the April 1997 Dudek & Associates Phase 1
Environmental Assessment for the Phase 2 portion of the proposed project. Information
2 pertaining to Phase 1 areas of the proposed project was obtained from the 1992
Cotton/Beland/Associated, Inc. Draft Environmental Impact Report for the Rancho Santa Fe
p> Road Realignment and Mass Grading Project as well an updated Vista Information Solutions
1^ search for known hazardous waste generators or polluters. These reports are incorporated by
reference to this EA and are available for review at Caltrans.
p
to
Affected Environment
tm
y» Phase 1
The portion of the APE covered by Phase 1 with the exception of the existing roadway is vacant
land characterized by native vegetation and rugged topography. Land uses in the proximity
^ include single family residential uses to the west and south, and office professional and light
industrial uses to the north of San Marcos Creek. Vacant land planned for permanent open space
to the east.
m
^ A search was performed in March 2000 by Vista Information Solutions (Vista) of San Diego, CA.
^ The regulatory database lists sites within a 1.25 mile radius of the Phase 1 property that are
^ known hazardous waste generators or polluters. Information such as the depth and gradient of
groundwater, the direction and distance from the subject site, and the current status of the listed
f site are all considered when determining any potential environmental impact to the subject
k property. The complete database search document is available for review at Caltrans and the
^ City of Carlsbad.
k
A total of (43) sites were identified in the database search within a 0.5 mile radius. These sites
m included primarily the light industrial uses north of San Marcos Creek. Many of the businesses
ta have permits for hazardous materials or storage such as generators and underground tanks. No
hazardous waste sites were identified within the Phase 1 APE in the database search.
pi
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p Discussion of Env. Evaluation
^ Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
mn
to
to
p
Phase 2
to The Phase 2 APE is located approximately one mile southeast of Lake San Marcos. With the
exception of the roadway, the APE consists of vacant land. Existing urban land uses in the
immediate vicinity of the Phase 2 APE include the current Rancho Santa Fe Road alignment
work and an industrial park along the eastern side of Rancho Santa Fe Road. Additional urban
land use includes two single-family detached residential developments as well as vacant land
associated with San Marcos Creek and the surrounding hills. The only industrial facility located
with the western portion of the study area is the Vallecitos Water Reclamation Facility, which
is located on La Costa Meadows Drive, approximately 1,100 feet west of Rancho Santa Fe Road.
Historical aerial photos for the site were reviewed for the time period 1953-1997. A majority of
the study area has remained undeveloped during this time period. Moderate to heavy
development has occurred along the western and northwestern portions of the study area.
According to former land owners interviewed in conjunction with the site visit, the proposed
project area has not been subjected to any substantial historical land use.
In March 1997, a field site assessment was performed. There were no signs of illegal dumping
on site. Features which would suggest illegal dumping include stained soil or pavement, odors,
or stressed vegetation. Stressed vegetation was observed onsite, however it was attributed to
recent brush fires. There were no drums or containers observed onsite. There were no electrical
impoundments observed onsite to suggest equipment containing PCBs. A majority of the study
area is in the public roads easements. Although the northwestern portion of the study area exists
out of the road easement, this area is unoccupied and does not contain any structures. There
were no above or below ground storage tanks observed within the study area.
The records search indicated ten facilities located along La Costa Meadows Drive have been
identified as being located within one-quarter mile from the study area and listed on the San
Diego County Department of Health Services database. These facihties have been identified as
being in noncompliance with general hazardous waste handling regulations and/or as being
small/large generators of hazardous waste.
The records search indicate two facilities located along La Costa Meadows Drive have been
identified on the state Leaking Underground Storage Tank database. One of these facilities was
identified as a non-tank permitted site, the other facility has no available specific information.
Both of these sites have been closed. As a result, the potential for contamination of the study
area from off-site sources does not appear to exist.
April 2000 1576-03
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Discussion of Env. Evaluation
*• Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
tm
k
Environmental Evaluation
^ Phase 1
p
^ It is not anticipated that development of the roadway within Phase 1 would subject people to
impacts from hazardous materials. The site is currently characterized by vacant land with the
to exception of the existing roadway. Based on the regulatory database search completed for the
to Phase 1 APE no hazardous waste site was identified and therefore, no impacts are anticipated.
Pi
to Phase 2
^ According to the hazardous materials site assessment, no environmental concerns appear to exist
^ within the Phase 2 APE. Hazardous or potentially hazardous materials are not currently stored
^ on site. According to interviews with previous and current owners, there has been no substantial
^ land use within the northern portion of the study area. This suggests the potential for
contamination to the soils or groundwater within the study area as a result of past use appears
^ low to nonexistent.
mm
As the records search indicates, there are no active cases involving leaking underground storage
tanks or contamination of the groundwater up gradient of the study area within on-half of a
** mile. As a result, no impacts due to hazardous materials are anticipated.
^ Combined Consequences of Phases 1 and 2
Hazardous waste sites have not been observed within the APE for phases 1 or 2. As a result, it
is not anticipated that people or property would be exposed to hazardous materials with
m implementation of the proposed project.
to
5.1.5 Floodplain Evaluation (#10)
to
Affected Environment
Phase 1
The 100 year floodplain as defined by FEMA located within the Phase 1 portion of the proposed
project is restricted to Encinitas Creek. Encinitas Creek flows from the Stanly Mahr reservoir
April 2000 1576-03
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Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
southeast to a culvert within La Costa Avenue. A study completed by the City in 1994 indicated
that the box culvert in La Costa Avenue as being unable to adequately convey 100 year flows in
Encinitas Creek. Other flow control facilities in the vicinity of Encinitas Creek include the Stanly
Mahr reservoir outlet works and emergency spillway.
Phase 2
A study completed by the City in 1988 shows that the existing Rancho Santa Fe Road crossing
over San Marcos Creek becomes completely submerged during the 100 year flood. As a result the
City completed a subsequent study to address existing floodplain conditions within the Creek.
This study (DUDEK January 2000) is incorporated by reference to this document and is available
for review at Caltrans.
Floodplain calculations were performed by the City for the existing Rancho Santa Fe Bridge using
the HEC-II backwater analysis program. In addition, the US Army Corps of Engineers' report
entitled Floodplain Information on San Marcos Creek dated April 1971 were used to determine
the 50- and 100- year flood volumes. The information was extrapolated on log-log plots to
determine the 25- year volume. The current flows were calculated from a drainage area of
approximately 29.4 square miles immediately upstream of the bridge. The existing flooplain
flows for San Marcos Creek are listed below in Table 5.1-1-
The study concluded that the low chord water surface elevation (WSEL) of San Marcos Creek
at the existing Rancho Santa Fe bridge is 335.62 feet above mean sea level (msl) and top of road
elevation of 337.2 feet msl at the downstream face of the bridge. The report also concludes that
San Marcos Creek has a low chord WSEL 336.78 feet msl and a top road elevation of 338.36 feet
msl at the upstream face of the bridge.
TABLE 5.1-1
PEAK FLOWS • EXISTING RANCHO SANTA FE BRIDGE
ta Flood Recurrence Interval Projected Peak Flows |
m 25-year 4.500 cfs 1
ta 50-year 8,000 cfs 1
pi
to 100-year 13,000 Cfs 1
Source: Dudek & Associates, Inc. (Rick Engineering, 1988,1996)
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Environmental Evaluation
Phase 1
The APE for Phase 1 would not extend within the 100 Year Floodplain of Encinitas Creek. As a
result, it is not anticipated that any portion of the roadway would be subject to significant risk
from flooding.
Phase 2
The City completed an analysis of potential impacts of the proposed bridge replacement on the
100 year floodplain of San Marcos Creek in 1997 and updated in 2000. This report is
incorporated by reference to this EA and is available at Caltrans. The results of the study are
summarized below.
The proposed bridge replacement encroaches upon the base floodplain as defined by the FEMA
defined regulatory flood way. The floodplain encroachment would be associated primarily with
the bridge piers.
The hydraulic analysis for the proposed bridge replacement concluded that lowest chord WSEL
of San Marcos Creek at the proposed bridge should be at 342.5 feet msl, which would allow for
a less than one foot rise with the 100-year flood. With the proposed bridge replacement, the
hydraulic analysis concluded that the WSEL upstream of the proposed bridge would be lowered
slightly (approximately 0.1 feet) because of no backwater increase by the bridge obstruction.
Based on the WSEL calculation, the study concluded that the proposed project would not be
subject to significant risk from flooding for the following reasons. The WSELs anticipated with
implementation of the bridge are anticipated to be within the FEMA standard 1.0 foot rise. In
addition, the bridge crossing will be designed with the lowest chord WSEL of San Marcos Creek
at 342.5 feet msl which is approximately 1 foot above the existing 100-year WSEL, for San
Marcos Creek. To avoid short term impacts routine construction procedures incorporated into
the proposed project and listed in SECTION 2.2.6 of this EA are required to minimize short term
impacts to the floodplain associated with construction.
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Discussion of Env. Evaluation
*• Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
^ Combined Consequences of Phases 1 and 2
The roadway realignment for Phases 1 would be located outside of the 100 year floodplain. The
bridge replacement within Phase 2 would be located above the WSEL of the 100 year flood and
*" no features of the bridge would significantly alter the floodplain. The report for Phase 2
concluded that the project does not encroach on the base floodplain of San Marcos Creek and
^ that the risk from flooding associated with this project is not significant. In addition, routine
^ construction measures necessary to minimize short term impacts to the floodplain incorporated
into the bridge construction are listed in SECTION 2.26 of this EA. As a result, the entire proposed
^ project is not considered to be subject to a significant risk from flooding.
IM
5.1.6 Water Qualitv (#s 11. 14. 51^
km
Affected Environment
Phase 1
km Surface Water. The proposed project site is located in the watersheds of the San Marcos Creek
and Encinitas Creek. Surface water drains through several tributary canyons and watercourses
towards the south and the west. Encinitas Creek is located at the south end of the proposed
project within Phase 1 and drains to the south. Both San Marcos Creek and Encinitas Creek
i« enter the Batiquitos Lagoon before entering the Pacific Ocean.
IH
Ground Water. A groundwater basin exists primarily in the two largest valleys: 1) The San
^ Marcos Creek Basin and, 2) in phase 1 APE a tributary to Encinitas Creek that partially originates
from the Stanly Mahr Reservoir and follows a southwesterly course. Geocon incorporated
^ observed the groundwater table to be at 10-30 feet deep in the Encinitas Creek Basin.
to
The Regional Water Quality Control Board has established the following pertinent threshold
* limits for groundwater and surface water quality for the Batiquitos tiydrographic subarea (HSA)
to that contains the proposed project site:
*" Groundwater Limits: Total Dissolved Solids - 3500 miligrams/liter (mg/1); Nitrogen
- 0.45 mg/1; Turbidity - 5 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU)
te Inland Surface Limits: Total Dissolved Solids - 500 mg/I; Phosphorus - 0.50 mg/1;
Turbidity-20 NTU
tm
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Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
Phase 2
The Phase 2 APE includes a San Marcos Creek crossing just south of the intersection of Rancho
Santa Fe Road and La Costa Meadows Drive in the City of Carlsbad. San Marcos Creek lies
within Batiquitos Hydrologic Subarea (HSA) 4.51 of the San Marcos Hydologic Area (HA) 4.50,
of the Carlsbad Hydrologic Unit (HU) 4.0. The most prominent water feature upstream of the
proposed project area is San Marcos Lake. The RWQCB surface and groundwater quality
thresholds described above for Phase 1 also apply to San Marcos Creek.
Surface Water. San Marcos Creek drains an area approximately 46-square mile area north of the
San Dieguito River Basin. The creek originates in the coastal range of mountains north and east
of San Marcos. The drainage basin ranges in elevation from sea level to slightly more than 1,700
feet in the Merriam Mountain range northeast of San Marcos. The creek drains to Batiquitos
Lagoon approximately 2.6 miles for the Pacific Ocean.
The stream gradient ranges from an average of 10 feet per mile near the mouth to about 600 feet
per mile near the headwaters. The creek has a small, not well-defined channel up stream from
Lake San Marcos. Downstream of Lake San Marcos, the channel is more defined, steep and rocky
to the La Costa development where it changes from well-defined to small and ill-defined to the
Batiquitos Lagoon. In the immediate area of the proposed project, the stream is broad and well-
defined.
Groundwater. San Marcos Greek is a perennial stream. The depth to groundwater in the
alluvium area is between 2 to 5 feet below ground surface. The alluvium thickness generally
ranges from 4 to 10 feet below ground surface.
Environmental Evaluation
Phase 1
The Final Alignment studies for the roadway realignment and bridge replacement include all
erosion control measures required by the Gity grading ordinance (see SECTION 2.2.6 of this EA).
A majority of the drainage from the roadway would be outletted to existing drainages adjacent
to the roadway. All drainage outlets would contain rip-rap filters to slow the velocity of the
runoff and minimize offsite erosion. Eventually all drainage outlets associated with the roadway
would be connected to systems associated with planned urban development in the area. It is
April 2000 1576-03
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Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
concluded, therefore, that with measures incorporated into the proposed project design the
proposed Phase 1 portion of the proposed project would not result in significant impacts to
surface or groundwater quahty.
Phase 2
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 EA and is available for review at Caltrans (DUDEK 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 significantly impacted. These measures are
listed in SECTION 2.2.6 of this EA. The conclusions of the Study are discussed further below.
Construction Phase. The construction of the realignment of Rancho Santa Fe Road and bridge
replacement, including grading and cut and fills, would entail the movement of approximately
265,000 cubic yards of earth and the creation of manufactured cut and fills. The maximum
height of cut slopes is estimated to be about 50 feet and the maximum amount fill slope is
estimated to be 20 feet. This movement of sediment and grading of the alignment will create
potential for sediment increases to San Marcos Creek.
The demohtion of the existing bridge would most likely involve the removal or abutments and
piers. The construction of the new bridge will also include the installation of new piers. The
removal and installation of the piers will create disturbance of the river channel. Sediment
loading to the river could be substantial, depending on the season when construction occurs.
The report concludes that with implementation of Best Management Practices (BMP) to control
the storm water runoff and to provide dust control construction of the bridge and associated
roadway improvements would not create significant adverse impacts to either ground or surface
water quality measures. Measures required by the study the City Grading Ordinance have been
incorporated into the proposed project design as well as the Storm Water Pollution Prevention
Plan to be prepared prior to construction(see SECTION 2.2.6 of this EA) to avoid or minimize
potential impacts to water quality from construction.
Operational Phase. The proposed project would create approximately 8 acres of paved surface
area which is almost 3 times the amount of the current paved area of the roadway within the
Phase 2 APE. Increases in surface runoff and pollutant loads may be expected. Pollutants
associated with runoff from the roadway include lead, zinc, dissolved solids, and nitrogen.
However, the amounts of pollutants from runoff associated with the increase in the capacity of
April 2000 1576-03
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Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
the roadway are minimal and are well below the RWQCB objectives for the basin. In addition
measures have been incorporated into the design of the proposed project (see SECTION 2.2.6 of
the EA) including provision of BMP's such as rip-rap at storm drain outlets. Considering that
runoff from the proposed project would contain minimal pollutant load and that BMP's have
been incorporated into the proposed project design implementation of the Phase 2 portion of the
proposed project would not create significant long term adverse impacts to water quahty.
Combined Consequences of Phases 1 and 2
Measures required by the water quaUty study for Phase 2 as well as the City Grading Oridance
have been incorporated into Phases 1 and 2 the proposed project (see SECTION 2.2.6 of this EA)
to avoid or minimize potential impacts to water quality from construction and operation. As
a result, the combined impacts to surface and groundwater quality associated with Phases 1 and
2 would not be significant.
5.1.7 Air Qualitv (#s 15. 16. 17. 18)
Affected Environment
Phases 1 and 2
• Meteorology and Climate
The climate in Carlsbad is controlled by the semi-permanent, high pressure system near Hawaii
and the moderating effects of the nearby oceanic thermal reservoir. The San Diego North
County climate is characterized by cool summers, mild winters, infrequent rainfall, abundant
sunshine, and comfortable humidities. Temperatures average 62 degrees Fahrenheit annually.
In Rainfall within the area averages 11 inches per year. Winds are generally light until mid-
afternoon, when the daily sea breeze reaches maximum strength. Unfortunately, the same
factors that create a highly desirable living climate combine to limit the ability of the air to
disperse the air pollution generated by the population attracted, in part by the climate.
The daytime sea breeze typically has its origin over open waters and thus brings clean air across
North County. This pattern does not allow locally generated emissions to undergo
photochemical reactions and form smog. Similarly, the winter drainage winds blow down from
nearby open higher terrain and thus arrive relatively "clean" in the local area. While daytime
April 2000 1576-03
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Discussion of Env. Evaluation
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winds are typically strong enough to rapidly ventilate the local area, nocturnal winds often are
nearly calm and thus do allow for the possible localized stagnation of air pollutants near traffic
intensive sources such as Highway 78 or Interstate 5. With low background pollution levels and
a relatively low overall emissions density in inland areas upwind of Carlsbad during nocturnal
offshore flow, the potential for any air pollution "hot spots" under stagnation conditions is
minimal in the Carlsbad area.
One wind pattern that does lead to occasional unhealthful air quality is when offshore winds at
night in the South Coast Air Basin (SCAB) blow onshore across North County the next day,
m containing day-old air pollutants that already contain high levels of and other irritants. Thi-s
k pollution recycling which sometimes occurs in late summer and early fall, may create some of
the most unhealthful air quality that is observed in the otherwise typically healthful North
^ County air quality environment,
to
^ • Baseline Air Quality
te
Air quality in Carlsbad is best documented from measurements made at a monitoring station in
^ Oceanside operated by the San Diego Air Pollution Control District (APCD). Data from the last
te six years, as published by the California Air Resources Board show that the State standard for 10-
microns diameter or less particulate matter is exceed approximately 10 times per year. The State
standard for ozone is exceeded approximately 6 days per year on average. The only federal
'* standard exceeded in Oceanside in the last six years was an average of one day with ozone levels
m above the national clean air standard. Standards for carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SOx)
te and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are not exceeded.
^ • Air Quality Management Planning
to
^ A plan to meet the federal standard for ozone was developed in 1994 during the process of
^ updating the 1991 state plan. During the planning process and smog formation modeling, it was
discovered that the SDAB can meet the federal ozone standard by the year 1999 without the
1^ creation of any new control programs. All progress towards attainment, including offsetting the
to effects of growth, is expected to derive from existing local, state and federal rules and regulations.
April 2000
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-22
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Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5,0 and Mitigation Measures
Environmental Evaluation
Combined Evaluation for Phases 1 and 2
An analysis of a road only proposed project that covers both Phases 1 and 2 was completed for
purposes of this EA. The air quality analysis completed by the City in February 2000 is
te incorporated by reference to this EA and is available for review at Caltrans. The report concluded
ito that implementation of the roadway is intended to implement the General Plan Circulation
element and accommodate existing and planned traffic generation in the area. As a result,
^ widening the roadway would not generate traffic in the area and, therefore, would not cause a
significant long term adverse impact to regional air quality. The results of the study are
^ summarized further below.
to
• Short term Construction Impacts
to Short-term impacts will result from dust generated by surface disturbance to construct bridge
and realigned roadway. Such dust will create potential soiling nuisance to parked cars,
landscaping, vegetation and other surfaces. Heavy equipment (mainly diesel-powered) will
generate exhaust emissions from on-site activity and on-road hauling of dirt, concrete and other
m construction materials. As described further below, the air quality analysis concluded that with
^ implementation of dust suppression and emission reduction measures incorporated into the
proposed project (see SECTION 2.2.6 of this EA) short term significant air quality impacts would
^ be avoided.
km
^ Fugitive Dust. Dust emissions were calculated based on the California ARB estimate that each
^ acre under construction disturbance generates about 100 pounds of dust per day, if no dust
control measures are implemented. Dust control measures incorporated into the proposed
^ project design (see SECTION 2.2.6 of this EA) including, frequent watering, paving of access
to roadways, and periodic street washing near construction access, as required by San Diego APCD
^ rules, will reduce the dust generation rate by approximately 50 percent.
to
Equipment Combustion Emissions. The maximum equipment activity level was assumed by the
m air quality analysis to occur during clearing, grading, delivery and dumping of base rock and
te compaction of the roadway subgrade. The study combined the equipment inventory with
representative load factors during typical grading/compaction activities and determined the
pollutant load per day generated by the construction equipment. According to the study, none
April 2000 1576-03
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Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
of the pollutant loads generated by the proposed project would exceed the daily thresholds
established by the SDAPCD. Therefore, total daily construction activity impacts, from
equipment exhaust and from fugitive dust, would not create a significant air quality impact.
Indirect emissions increases could result during construction in public roadways if lane closures,
detours or other interference with local traffic measurably worsened congestion already heavily
traveled roadways. Through measures incorporated into the proposed project design including
limited lane closures during the a.m. and p.m. peak travels periods, and use of the existing
roadway for access during construction, significant indirect impacts to air quality from detours
and lane closures are not anticipated.
• Long Term Operation Impacts
Proposed project operations will create changes in the location of automotive pollution sources,
in the number of vehicles using the roadway, and in the degree of congestion that will occur.
Roadway improvements may also affect patterns of growth that were previously constrained by
access Umitations.
Localized changes in air pollution patterns may create elevated levels of primary (unreacted) air
pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO). Localized violations of CO standards are often called
"hot spots." With low background CO levels in the proposed project vicinity, and with
continuing reductions in CO emissions from the average vehicle, hot spot formation is highly
unlikely. A screening level analysis was conducted to confirm this finding.
Microscale Impact Analysis. In order to assess any microscale air quality implications of
proposed project implementation, a roadway air pollution dispersion calculation was performed
near three intersections along Rancho Santa Fe Road. Carbon Monoxide (CO) was used to
evaluate the potential for any microscale "hot spots." Worst-case meteorology and peak hour
traffic conditions were combined in a Caltrans roadway air pollution screening model. People
who are highly sensitive to air pollution exposure are called "sensitive receptors." Typical
sensitive receptor locations include residences, health care facilities, schools, parks, etc. Within
the proposed project area, sensitive receptors consist predominantly of residential users. A
description of the eight sensitive receptor locations selected for roadway emissions impact
analysis include:
• Child Care Facilities within Industrial Park (Phase 2)
• Residence - Espera Court (Phase 1)
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"> Discussion of Env. Evaluation
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to
k
Residence - Cadencia (Phase 1)
Residence - Mulso/Fosca (Phase 1)
Residence - Cabo/Trigo (Phase 1)
Residence - Del Rio Court (Phase 1)
Residence - Dorado Place (Phase 1)
Residence - Cuesta Place (Phase 1)
The microscale air quality impact analysis demonstrated that the existing maximum local CO
increments at the shoulder of any proposed project area roadway are well within acceptable
Standards and, therefore, no significant impacts to air quality were identified. The maximum
k predicted one-hour GO concentration (7 ppm) would occur at Receptor 4, a single-family home
on the corner of Fosca Way and Mulso Lane. The local exposure of 7 ppm does not exceed the
^ most stringent California standard of 20 ppm and the federal standard of 35 ppm.
to
^ Maximum eight-hour CO levels generated by the proposed project would also not fixeed the
State and/or federal; standard of 9 ppm. The maximum opening daily worst-case, eight-hour CO
levels at buildout conditions would decrease to 4.1 ppm, or 46 percent of the standard.
Considering that eight-hour CO levels would not exceed state standards, significant impacts were
te not identified.
Air Quality Conformity Analysis. Regional air quality impacts were evaluated relative to
regional transportation improvement studies (RTIP) which are a component of the Regional Air
m» Quality Strategic/State Implementation Plan (RAQS/SIP). The proposed project is contained in
^ an RTIP that has been demonstrated to conform to the PA.OS/SIP. Accordingly, no substantial
adverse regional air quality impacts related to Plan conformance would occur from proposed
^ project implementation,
to
^ Cumulative. As described above, microscale air quality impacts were demonstrated to be
^ individually and cumulatively less than significant as a part of the study completed for Phases
1 and 2. Construction activities for Phases 1 and 2 may briefly overlap. However, the peak
^ equipment/soil disturbance level during the limited cumulative overlap period will be less intense
to than from mass grading during Phase 2 which was found to have a less-than-significant impact.
Cumulative construction activity impacts are, therefore, less than significant.
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5.1.8 Noise (#s 19.20.51)
Affected Environment
Existing Noise Criteria
The City of Carlsbad required that the maximum acceptable exterior noise level for new
residential development shall not exceed a CNEL of 60 dB. The County of San Diego's maximum
acceptable exterior noise level for new residential development is that the CNEL should not
exceed 60 dB. However, proposed projects that are federally funded are to comply with
applicable FHWA standards. The FHWA/Caltrans follows the noise abatement procedures
established in the Code of Federal Regulations (23 CFR 772). Caltrans also follows the nosie
abatement procedures as well as policies established in Caltrans Highway Design Manual
Chapter 1100.
The FHWA considers that a traffic noise impact occurs when the predicted traffic noise levels
approach or exceed the Noise Abatement Criteria. The FHWA specifies that the Noise
Abatement Criteria, when approached or exceeded, requires the consideration of traffic noise
abatement measures. The FHWA indicates that local State Highway Agencies should use a
definition of approach that is at least one dB less than the Noise Abatement Criteria. Caltrans
defines approach as being two dB lower than the Noise Abatement Criteria.
Existing Sensitive Receptors and Noise Measurements
• Sensitive Receptor Locations
Phases 1 and 2
Sensitive receptors in the vicinity of the proposed project include single family residences (See
Figure 3-2). Single family residences are located at the Melrose Drive/Corintia Drive intersection.
These residences are approximately 800 feet from the proposed location of the roadway.
Additional residences are located adjacent to the existing roadway at the northern terminus of
the APE. Single family residences are also located north of the La Costa Avenue/Rancho Santa
Fe Road intersection that are approximately 200 to 1,500 feet from the proposed alignment of
the roadway.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-26
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p> Discussion of Env. Evaluation
k Section 5,0 and Mitigation Measures
m»
^ As shown in Figure 2-4, industrial and office buildings are located immediately to the east of the
^ existing roadway. Industrial uses are generally not considered to be sensitive receptors with
^ respect to traffic generation.
^ • Existing Noise Measurements
to
• Phase 1
fm •
Ik
As discussed in the EIR prepared for the preliminary alignment of the roadway, noise generation
P and exposure in the vicinity of the residences immediately north of the La Costa Avenue/Rancho
in Santa Fe Road intersection is limited to noise from the existing Rancho Santa Fe Road. Greater
levels experienced by these residents exist during daytime commuting hours, however noise
^ receptor sensitivity is highest at night.
Phase 2
to
The following noise measurements were completed as a part of the Draft Acoustical Assessment
Report prepared for the Rancho Santa Fe Project. The acoustical study has been incorporated
by reference to this document and is available for review at Caltrans.
mm
te A site, located near the southeast corner of the La Costa Meadows/Rancho Santa Fe Road
intersection was chosen as an existing conditions measurement site because it provided an
^ unobstructed view of Rancho Santa Fe Road. The peak (noisiest hour) average noise level was
^ 70 dB and occurred both during the morning commute and the evening commute hours.
^ A short-term noise measurement was also conducted at the residential area located at the
northwest intersection of Melrose Drive and Corinita Street. The traffic noise at these residences
is primarily associated with Melrose Drive, and to a lesser extent, Rancho Santa Fe Road. The
te" homes at this area have existing sound walls approximately 5 to 6 feet in height. The noise
measurement, conducted approximately 10 feet in front of the sound walls resulted in an average
sound level of 63 dB. The traffic noise level from Rancho Santa Fe Road was observed to
typically range from 52 to 58 dB at this site,
te
to The Meadowlands project is currently grading lots for single family homes adjacent to the
northwest intersection of Rancho Santa Fe Road and Melrose Drive. An acoustical study
prepared for that proposed project identified noise impacts exceeding the City's noise criteria for
approximately 25 residential lots located adjacent to Melrose Drive and Rancho Sant Fe Road.
April 2000 1576:03
Environmental Assessment • Ranctio Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-27
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Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
Noise barriers were recommended in the acoustical study to mitigate the noise impact to meet
the City's applicable noise criteria at the time the development permit application was approved
(i.e., 65 dB Ldn). This noise level would comply with FHWA/Caltrans noise criteria. As part of
the City's conditions of approval for the Meadowlands project, the developer is required to
construct the noise barriers at the residential lots adjacent to Rancho Santa Fe Road and Melrose
Drive.
Environmental Evaluation
Phase 1
Noise levels generated by traffic within Phase 1 roadway would not significantly impact existing
residences northwest of the La Costa Avenue/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection due to the
distance of the roadway from the residences. The City chose the alignment for the proposed
project in part to maximize the distance of the Phase 1 portion o the roadway from the existing
residences. As shown in Figure 2-2, the distance of the roadway from the existing residences
would range from approximately 400-1500 feet. The roadway would also be separated by
intervening topography along the 2,000 feet of roadway closest to the residences in the southern
portion of the Phase 1 APE. The noise analysis conducted for the EIR did not identify any
significant impacts based on the City 60dB criteria from road noise to existing residences.
Considering noise from the roadway experienced by existing residents at the would not exceed
the City criteria it is anticipated that nosie levels would comply with the FHWA noise abatement
criteria.
City criteria within the noise element of the General Plan require that measures be incorporated
into the design of any residential development adjacent to Circulation Element Roadway to
ensure that noise levels experienced by residents do not exceed the City threshold of 60 dB.
Considering that the City will require measures be incorporated into the future Carlsbad Village
Development planned adjacent to the roadway with Phase 1, that meet the City threshold,
implementation of the proposed project would not create significant noise impacts to planned
land uses. Noise from the roadway experienced by planned development adjacent to the
roadway would not exceed the City criteria, it is therefore also anticipated that noise levels
would comply with the FHWA noise abatement criteria.
Noise would be generated from three proposed construction staging areas and two rock crushing
areas. Measures necessary to avoid significant noise impacts to existing residences from
construction noise including adherence to the City construction timing restrictions have been
April 2000 JjZ^
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-28
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
incorporated into the design of the proposed project. Construction timing measures incorporated
into the proposed project are discussed in SECTION 2.2.6 of this EA. As a result, significant short
term impacts from construction noise within Phase 1 are not anticipated.
Phase 2
The report prepared for Phase 2 of the proposed project concluded that with measures
incorporated into the proposed project design, see SECTION 2.2.6, no significant impacts to
existing residences in the vicinity of the roadway would occur. The conclusions of this report
are summarized below.
The future peak hour average noise level at the residences located along Melrose Drive would
range from approximately 60 to 64 dB. The future noise levels at these residences would be
similar with or without the proposed project. This noise level would comply with the FHWA
noise abatement criteria.
The peak hour average noise level at the homes located on the west side of Melrose Drive would
be approximately 60 to 64 dB associated with traffic noise. This includes the noise attenuation
associated with the existing five to six-foot high sound wall at these residences. The CNEL
would be approximately one dB greater than the peak hour average noise level. The noise level
increase would primarily result from future traffic growth along Melrose Drive rather than noise
impacts associated with the proposed project. As indicated in the preliminary design studies for
the proposed project, Melrose Drive would be aligned farther away from the homes near the
intersection of Melrose Drive and Corintia Street. The future noise level at the homes located
near the intersection would be approximately one dB lower with the proposed project as
compared to the not built scenario. The noise impact associated with the proposed project at
these homes would be less than significant.
The business industrial park includes several outdoor lunch areas. Most of the lunch areas are
located along the east sides of the buildings which provide noise attenuation from the traffic
noise. However, a lunch area is located on the south side of the southern most building in the
industrial complex. The peak one-hour average noise level at this location would be
approximately 66 dB. This noise level complies with the FHWA/Caltrans noise criteria and no
significant impacts are anticipated.
April 2000 -[576:03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-29
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
A child care facility is located at the business industrial park along La Costa Meadows Drive east
of Rancho Santa Fe Road. The facility is partially shielded from traffic noise by intervening
buildings. The future peak hour average noise level at this location would be approximately 62
dB. This noise level would comply with the FHWA/Caltrans noise criteria.
With the eight-foot high sound wall proposed by the proposed 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
FHWA/Caltrans noise criteria at four homes located along Rancho Santa Fe Road.
Combined Consequences of Phases 1 and 2
As discussed above, measures have been incorporated into phases 1 and 2 in accordance with the
EIR and subsequent technical studies completed by the City to address refinements to the
alignment evaluated in the EIR. As a result, implementation of the combined phases 1 and 2
would not create adverse short or long term noise impacts.
5.2 Biological Resources (#s 9, 13, 22 - 29, 49, 52 - 54]
A biological resources survey was prepared for Phases 1 and 2 of the proposed project in February
2000. The survey report is incorporated by reference to this EA and is available for review at
Caltrans. The results of the survey are summarized below.
Affected Environment
Phases 1 and 2
Prior to the October 1996 fire, according to the Carlsbad HMP/North County MHCP, the APE
supported six vegetation communities/land cover types: Diegan coastal sage scrub, southern
mixed chaparral, southern willow scrub, annual (non-native) grassland, disturbed habitat, and
developed. The current survey mapped five additional habitat types in the APE: disturbed coyote
brush scrub. Valley needlegrass grassland, freshwater marsh, disturbed wetland and eucalyptus
woodland. The biological resources map contained in the map pocket depicts the existing
vegetative conditions in the proposed project area and the acreage of each type is presented in
Table 5.2-1.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-30
Section 5.0
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
and Mitigation Measures
TABLE 5.2-1
PLANT COMMUNITY OR LAND COVER ACREAGES
Natural Plant Communities
Coastal Sage Scrub (burned)
Coastal Sage Scrub (disturbed)
Coyote Brush Scrub (disturbed)
Total Coastal Sage Scrubs
Southern mixed chaparral
Southern Mixed chaparral (burned)
Total Southern Mixed Chaparrals
Valley Needlegrass Grassland
Valley Needlegrass Grassland/CSS
Total Valley Needlegrass Grasslands
Freshwater Marsh
Southern Willow Scrub
Disturbed Wetland
Total Wetland Habitats
35.1 acres
23.5 acres
1.9 acres
60,4 acres
1.4 acres
14.4 acres
15.8 acres
0.1 acre
2.2 acres
2.3 acres
0.43 acre
1.72 acres
0.27 acre
2.42 acres
Altered Land Covers
Eucalyptus Woodland
Annual Grassland (Ruderal)
Disturbed habitat
Developed
Total Altered Land Covers
2.7 acres
17.2 acres
12.3 acres
25.2 acres
57.4 acres
GRAND TOTAL 138.3 acres
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Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-31
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
Fiorai Diversity
A total of 205 plant species was detected in the APE and surrounding area by HELIX and DUDEK
biologists, including 138 (65%) native species and 72 (35%) non-native species. Many of the
species detected in the APE are annual forbs that have flourished as a result of the October 1996
fire.
Wiidiife Habitats
Wildlife habitats of greatest value are those that are (1) rare in San Diego County, (2) highly
productive, or (3) capable of supporting sensitive species. Wildlife habitats present onsite include
shrublands, riparian habitat, annual grassland, eucalyptus woodland and disturbed habitat. A
total of 134 wildlife species were observed or detected in the APE, including 84 birds, 14
mammals, three amphibians, nine reptiles, and 24 butterflies. A complete list of wildlife species
observed is attached to this document as APPENDIX B. Some of the HELIX surveys were
completed prior to the October 1996 fire and included areas to the north and northeast of the
APE. The October 1996 fire probably resulted in a diminished number of wildlife species in the
APE, particularly birds and reptiles, because of the loss of shrub habitat and refuge. Below is a
discussion of wildlife habitats present within the APE.
Sensitive Bioiogical Resources
For purposes of the EA, resources are considered sensitive if they have been: (1) species that have
been given special recognition by federal, state, or local conservation agencies and organizations
due to limited, declining, or threatened population sizes; (2) species and habitat types recognized
by local and regional resource agencies as sensitive; (3) habitat areas or plant communities that
are unique, are of relatively limited distribution, or are of particular value to wildlife; and (4)
wildlife corridors and habitat linkages. Sources used for determination of sensitive biological
resources are as follows: wildlife -- USFWS (USFWS 1989, 1991), California Natural Diversity
Data Base (CNDDB), CDFG (CDFG 1980, 1986), Remsen (1978), and Murphy (1990); plants -
USFWS (1990), CDFG (1987), CNDDB, and Skinner and Pavlik (1994); and habitats - CNDDB
and Hix (1990). The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) provided a list of federally-listed
threatened and endangered species and proposed species that may occur in the APE. The USFWS
letter has been addressed in the biological resources analysis for the proposed project.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Ranctio Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-32
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
Sensitive Piant Species
No plant species recognized as threatened or endangered by the USFWS were observed in the APE
during prior or recent surveys. Three sensitive species are present within the APE: southwestern
spiny rush {Juncus acutus var. leopoldii) in San Marcos Creek, California adolphia (Adolphia
califomica) and San Diego golden-star (MuHla clevelandii).
Sensitive Wiidiife Species
Thirteen sensitive animal species observed in or around the APE for Phase I. These sensitive
species include the federally-listed threatened California gnatcatcher (Polioptila califomica) and
non-listed Cooper's hawk, southern California rufous-crowned sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps), Bell's
sage sparrow (Amphispiza belli belli), loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus), San Diego horned
lizard {Phrynosoma coronatum), coastal whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris multiscutatus), western
spadefoot (Scaphiopus hammondi), red-diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber), coastal rosy boa
(Lichanura trivirgata), northwestern San Diego pocket mouse (Chaetodipus fallax fallax), San
Diego black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus) and desert woodrat (Neotoma lepida). Each of
these species are discussed below.
Within the Phase 2 area, including San Marcos Creek, no wildlife species listed as threatened or
endangered by USFWS or CDFG were observed in the APE, including the five species for which
focused surveys were conducted: least Bell's vireo, southwestern willow flycatcher, arroyo
southwestern toad. Pacific pocket mouse and quino checkerspot. Three species that are
considered sensitive by the wildlife agencies were detected in the APE; Cooper's hawk, two-
striped garter snake, and Dulzura California pocket mouse {Chaetodipus californicus femoralis).
Sensitive IHabitats
Sensitive habitats within the proposed project area include coastal sage scrub, coyote brush scrub,
southern willow scrub. Valley needlegrass grassland, disturbed habitat and freshwater marsh.
Regionally, coastal sage scrub supports numerous sensitive species of plants and wildlife, and has
been reduced in San Diego County as a result of urbanization and other developments (Hix
1990). Coyote brush is recognized as a sub-category of coastal sage scrub and impacts to it
usually are considered to be similar in importance to coastal sage scrub. Valley needlegrass
grassland is a native habitat type that often is important to sensitive plant species and birds of
April 2000 ^^^== J^!^
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-33
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mltljgatlon Measures
prey. Southern willow scrub, disturbed wetland and freshwater marsh are wetland habitats that
are subject to regulation by CDFG under Sections 1600-1603 of the California Fish and Game
Code and the ACOE under Section 404 of the federal Clean Water Act.
Combined Evaluation for Phases 1 and 2
Impacts to native habitats, sensitive plants, and sensitive wildlife species must be quantified and
analyzed to determine whether such impacts are significant under the National Environmental
Policy Act (NEPA). An ironclad definition of "significant" effect is not possible because the
significance of an activity may vary with the setting, i.e., "examples of consequences which may
be deemed to be a significant effect on the environment." These effects include substantial
effects on rare or endangered species of animal or plant or the habitat of the species. A proposed
project may have a significant effect on the environment if the proposed project has the potential
to: (1) substantially degrade the quality of the environment; (2) substantially reduce the habitat
of a fish or wildlife species; (3) cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining
levels; (4) threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community; (5) reduce the number or restrict
the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal; or (6) eliminate important examples of the
major period of California history or prehistory.
The evaluation of whether or not an impact to a particular biological resource is significant must
consider both the resource itself and the role of that resource in a regional context. Substantial
impacts are those that contribute to, or result in, permanent loss of an important resource, such
as a population of a rare plant or animal. Impacts may be important locally because they result
in an adverse alteration of existing site conditions, but considered not significant because they
do not contribute substantially to the permanent loss of that resource regionally. The severity
of an impact is the primary determinant of whether or not that impact can be mitigated to a level
below significant.
Assessment of Impacts to Piant Communities
This analysis assumes direct, permanent impacts to all habitats within the limits of grading for
Phases 1 and 2, including connecting access roads, storm drains, detention basins, etc. The
second map pocket includes the limits of grading overlaid on the biological resources and
wetlands maps. Implementation of the proposed project will result in direct and indirect impacts
to native and non-native plant communities and habitats. Direct impacts are the primary result
of the activity, such as grading or filling, whereas indirect effects are the secondary result, such
as noise effects, changes in drainage, etc. and therefore are difficult to quantify. Temporary
April 2000 ^^^^-"^
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-34
Section 5.0
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
and Mitigation Measures
impacts would also occur in Phases I and II of the APE. These temporary impact areas include
staging areas, rock-crushing areas and demolition of the old bridge. Permanent impacts cause a
permanent removal of habitat, such as by filling or the "shade effect" of the new bridge, whereas
temporary impacts will allow habitat function or species to return after those areas are restored.
Table 5.2-2 summarizes the permanent and temporary impacts of the proposed project for each
phase and the proposed project as a whole.
TABLE 5.2-2
PROPOSED IMPACTS BY PLANT COMMUNITY
Total Project Area Pliasel Phaseir
Vegetation Type Perm. Temp. Perm. Temp. Perm. Temp.
Coastal Sage Scrub (Total) 42.8 17.5 40.9 17.5 1.9 -
burned CSS 25.5 9.4 25.5 9.4 <0.1 -
disturbed CSS 15.4 8.1 15.4 8.1 --
disturbed coyote brush scrub 1.9 ---1.9 -
Southern Mixed Chaparral (Total) 5.4 1.5 -1.5 5.4 -
SMC 0.2 1.0 -1.0 0.2 -
burned SMC 5.2 0.5 -0.5 5.2 -
Valley Needlegrass Grassland (Total) 0.1 0.8 <0.1 0.8 0.1 -
VGL 0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.1 -
VGiycss <0.1 0.8 <0.1 0.8 <0.1 -
Southern Willow Scrub 0.44 0.97 --0.44 0.97
Freshwater Marsh ------
Disturbed Wetland 0.27 -0.27 ---
Waters (unvegetated waters of the U.S.) 0.22 0.04 0.08 0.01 0.15 0.03
Annual Grassland 5.5 7.5 2.8 2.8 2.7 4.7
Eucalyptus Woodland 1.0 ---1.0 -
Disturbed Habitat 8.1 3.6 7.1 3.4 1.0 0.1
Developed Land 12.7 2.5 4.3 1.1 8.4 1.4
TOTAL 76.4 34.5 55.4 Z7.2 21.0 7.3
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-35
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
• Fieldstone/City of Carlsbad HCP
The USFWS has approved a Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) proposed by the City of Carlsbad,
in association with Fieldstone/La Costa Associates, that covers 1,940.2 acres of land in southeast
Carlsbad including the entire APE of this proposed project. The HCP provides conservation and
mitigation requirements that comply with the California Natural Communities Conservation
Plan (NCCP). The NCCP is a state-wide habitat conservation program aimed at planning future
development so as to preserve threatened habitats and species. Impacts to upland habitats
associated with the realignment and expansion of Rancho Santa Fe Road as well as a bridge
replacement over San Marcos Creek were addressed as a part of the HCP. Therefore, impacts to
upland habitats, sensitive plants and animal species have been addressed through the proposed
project's conformance with the HCP.
Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub and Coyote Brush Scrub: Implementation of the proposed project
will result in the permanent loss of 40.9 acres of coastal sage scrub and 1.9 acres of disturbed
coyote brush scrub and temporary impacts to 17.5 acres of coastal sage scrub. As discussed in
SECTION 2.2.6, the City has purchased habitat credits and will restore impacts to construction
staging areas in order to conform with the HCP requirements for upland habitats. Therefore,
permanent and temporary impacts are not considered significant.
Southern Mixed Chaparral: Implementation of the proposed project will result in the
permanent loss of approximately 5.4 acres and temporary loss of 1.5 acres of southern mixed
chaparral. This represents an incremental reduction of the habitat in the region. Because
southern mixed chaparral is a widespread and common community type in San Diego County,
and that measures have been incorporated into the proposed project design to conform with the
HCP requirements for upland habitats, impacts to this habitat are not considered significant.
Valley Needlegrass Grassland: Implementation of the proposed project will result in the
permanent loss of 0.1 acre and temporary loss of 0.8 acre of Valley needlegrass grassland. Valley
needlegrass grassland is recognized locally as important to the maintenance of raptor populations,
other sensitive wildlife and sensitive plants, and is a declining habitat type within the coastal
areas of southern California. Within the APE, the patch of Valley needlegrass grassland north
of the creek is very small in extent, isolated from other grasslands, and does not represent a
significant botanical or wildlife resource. The larger area of grassland along Questhaven Road
probably would be isolated by the development of the University Commons proposed project.
Additionally, as described in the proposed project description, measures have been incorporated
into the proposed project design to conform with the HCP requirements for upland habitats.
Therefore, permanent and temporary impacts are not considered significant.
April 2000 JSTe^QS
Envimnmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-36
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
Wetland/Riparian Habitats
The wetland delineation determined that there were 2.42 acres of jurisdictional wetlands within
the APE. In addition, several unvegetated jurisdictional waters of the U.S. were mapped in the
proposed project area. The proposed project would affect wetlands and waters through
construction of the road and bridge. Construction of the road and associated slopes would result
in the permanent impacts to disturbed wetland and unvegetated channel as well as temporary
impacts to unvegetated channel. These temporary impacts are associated with construction
activity necessary to construct the road and associated slopes. Replacement of the bridge over
San Marcos Creek would impact wetlands and waters in the following ways: permanently by
filling and dredging for construction of abutments and bridge piers; permanently by the "shading
effect" of the bridge structure; permanently by construction of a storm drain outfall structure
southeast of the new bridge; and temporarily by certain construction activities within the
streambed adjacent to the bridge including demolition of the old bridge.
For impacts to wetland habitats, the proposed project will include habitat creation, restoration,
enhancement or acquisition pursuant to permit requirements of the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers, Caiifornia Department of Fish and Game and Regional Water QuaUty Control Board.
It is expected that the following ratios will apply for permanent impacts: 1:1 for disturbed
wetlands and 3:1 for southern willow scrub. 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 and road, pre-construction contours
will be restored and, where wetlands currently exist, southern willow scrub will be revegetated.
As a result, in view of proposed mitigation, both permanent and temporary impacts are
considered less than significant.
The proposed project will require permits in accordance with Section 1601 of the California Fish
and Game Code, Section 401 of the federal Clean Water Act and Section 404 of the federal Clean
Water Act. A Section 1601 Streambed Alteration Agreement will be obtained from the California
Department of Fish and Game; and a Section 401 Certification or Waiver will be obtained from
the Regional Water Quality Control Board. It is anticipated that the proposed project would
qualify under a Nationwide Permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. No wild or scenic
rivers as defined by the USFWS are located within the APE.
Annual (Non-native) Grassland: Implementation of the proposed project will result in the
permanent loss of 5.5 acres and temporary loss of 7.5 acres of annual grassland. Although non-
native grasslands typically do not support sensitive plant or wildlife species, they may represent
important raptor foraging habitat. The overall acreage of non-native grassland is diminishing
April 2000 1576-0_3
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-37
fm
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
regionally, but non-native grassland remains a relatively abundant habitat type in San Diego
County. The permanent and temporary loss of non-native grassland resulting from proposed
project implementation would have a minor local impact, but would not represent a significant
impact regionally.
Eucalyptus Woodland: Implementation of the proposed project will result in the permanent loss
of 1.1 acres and temporary loss of less than 0.1 acre of eucalyptus woodland. Although eucalyptus
woodlands typically do not support sensitive plant or wildlife species, they may represent
important raptor nesting habitat. The overall acreage of eucalyptus woodland is diminishing
regionally, but eucalyptus woodland remains a relatively abundant habitat type in San Diego
County. The permanent and temporary loss of eucalyptus woodland resulting from proposed
project implementation would have a minor local impact, but would not represent a significant
impact regionally.
Disturbed Habitat/Developed Land: Proposed permanent and temporary impacts to disturbed
habitat and developed land are not considered significant because neither land type supports a
substantial number of native plants and therefore do not represent a significant biological
resource.
Assessment of Impacts to Sensitive Plant Species
No state or federally-listed rare, threatened or endangered species were observed onsite. Three
species recognized as locally sensitive by the California Native Plant Society (Skinner and Pavlik
1994) were detected in San Marcos Creek.
A small population of spiny rush occurs within the APE and could be affected by provision of
temporary access and construction of bridge abutments. Potential impacts to this portion of the
large San Marcos Creek population would not be considered significant. This species is
widespread in San Diego County and Baja California, Mexico, and is under no threat of
extinction at this time. It is locally common in alkaline wetlands, many of which are either in
permanent open space or in areas where activities are regulated by the ACOE and CDFG. Spiny
rush is frequently used successfully in wetland revegetation schemes.
An undetermined number of California adolphia and approximately 1,500 individuals of San
Diego golden-star would be permanently impacted by the proposed project. This impact is
mitigated through provisions of the HCP and, therefore, is not considered significant.
April 2000
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-38
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
Assessment of Impacts to Sensitive Wildlife Species
Wildlife species recognized as threatened by the USFWS and several species recognized as USFWS
"sensitive species" and/or as "species of special concern" by CDFG occur or could potentially occur
in the APE. Direct and indirect impacts to each of these species are discussed below.
Impacts to California gnatcatcher are not considered significant given the City has purchased
mitigation credits in conformance with the HCP and timing of construction outside of the
gnatcatcher breeding season in order to avoid disruption of nesting and rearing.
Impacts of the proposed project to the Cooper's hawk and loggerhead shrike would not be
considered significant. These species are still relatively widespread and common nesting species
in many types of woodlands and grasslands in San Diego County, including suburban
environments. As described in the proposed project description, vegetation removal that is
needed to accomplish the proposed project will be conducted between about 15 September and
15 February immediately prior to construction; therefore, direct loss of a nesting site would not
occur.
Impacts to Bell's sage sparrow and southern California rufous-crowned sparrow are not
considered significant due to their low sensitivity. In addition, adequate habitat for these species
would be conserved per the HCP and construction would not take place during the breeding
season.
Potential impacts to two-striped gartersnake, San Diego horned lizard, western spadefoot, coastal
whiptail, red-diamond rattlesnake and rosy boa would not be considered significant. These
species are still relatively widespread species. It is anticipated that the bridge structure would
allow continued movement and persistence of species currently in San Marcos Creek. In
addition, the HCP allows for significant conservation of habitat occupied by these species.
Potential impacts to the Dulzura California pocket mouse, northwestern pocket mouse, desert
woodrat and San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit would not be considered significant. These are
relatively widespread and common species in southern California and adequate habitat is
conserved for these species per the HCP.
Construction activity is expected to reduce wildlife use in the areas contiguous with the proposed
project. Elevated noise levels are anticipated to occur as a result of grading, excavation, and
driving piles. The wildlife agencies typically find that noise levels in excess of 65 dBA L^^ are
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-39
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
^ Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
^ detrimental to wildlife, and for example, result in "take" of endangered or threatened bird species.
„. Because no endangered or threatened wildlife species are known to occur in the proposed project
^ vicinity or onsite, the indirect effects of construction activity, including noise, are not expected
to be significant, considering that (as discussed in SECTION 2.2.6) all habitat removal is conducted
between 15 September and 15 February.
te
Assessment of Impacts to Local and Regional Wildlife Corridors and
^ Habitat Linkages
San Marcos Creek at Rancho Santa Fe Road serves as a regionally-important habitat
linkage/wildlife corridor for a variety of wildlife, including larger species such as mule deer and
mountain lion, between the University Commons/San Elijo Ranch proposed project areas in the
te City of San Marcos and the Bank of America property in Carlsbad. The linkage that facilitates
access across University Commons/San Elijo Ranch has been identified by the resource agencies
as essential to connectivity through the San Marcos Landfill area and eventually to the San
Dieguito River near Lake Hodges.
Construction (replacement) of a bridge as a part of Phase 2 across the creek, followed by
demolition of the existing bridge and road section, temporarily will affect wildlife usage of the
corridor during the construction period. Subsequently, wildlife would be expected to resume
patterns of travel through the area in the manner and at levels that existed before, resulting in
no net impact to wildlife movement. Realignment of the roadway in the southern portion of the
APE would not significantly affect wildlife movement because of the lack of significant habitat
west of Rancho Santa Fe Road and therefore limited wildlife usage of this area as a linkage or
corridor.
5.2.1 Farmland (#25)
Combined Evaluation for Phase 1 and 2
There are no prime agricultural soils as defined by the Soil conservation Service or any Farmlands
defined as prime or statewide importance as defined by the California Department of
Conservation important farmland mapping program. The proposed roadway would extend
through approximately 800 linear feet of area identified as farmland of local importance by
California Department of Conservation. However, no existing agricultural operations are present
April 2000 -I576;£3
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-40
te
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
within the APE for either Phases 1 or 2. As a result, implementation of the proposed project
would not reduce the acreage of important farmland or impact any existing agricultural
operations.
5.3 Social and Economic
5.3.1 Communitv Disruption/Land Use/ Property Values (#s 30 - 39. 47)
Affected Environment
Phase 1
Existing land uses within the Phase 1 APE consist of vacant land with the exception of the
existing roadway (see Figure 2-2). Single family residential uses are located approximately 800-
1,000 feet to the west and south of the Phase 1 APE. The area to the east also consists of vacant
land associated with a large hill. Exiting land uses to the northwest of the Phase 1 APE include
the San Marcos Creek and light industrial uses.
The City is currently processing a planned development within the Phase 1 APE (referred to as
Carlsbad Village). The mixed use development would consist of residential, commercial and
office uses that would be developed throughout the Phase 1 APE. The development studies
currently being processed at the City incorporate the realigned and widened Rancho Santa Fe
Road as approved by the City General Plan circulation element.
Phase 2
As shown in Figure 2-2, existing land uses within the Phase 2 APE include the existing roadway
and a mix of urban uses. Residential uses are located approximately 800 feet to the west of the
existing roadway and immediately adjacent to the roadway at the northern border of the APE.
Light industrial uses are located adjacent to the east of the roadway.
Residential units have recently been constructed to the west of the existing roadway within the
Phase 2 APE (referred to as the Meadowlands Development). The single family residential uses
would be located immediately to the north and south of the existing Melrose Drive/Rancho
Santa Fe Road intersection.
April 2000 ^S76-03
Envimnmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-41
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
Combined Evaluation for Phases 1 and 2
• Impacts to Existing Land Uses/Property Values
Construction of the roadway would not disrupt an established community or adversely impact
existing neighborhood character. The Final Alignment studies and roadway realignment for
Phase 1 portion of the APE would extend through vacant land. In addition, the City chose the
alignment within Phase 1 to maximize the distance from existing residences located immediately
north of La Costa Avenue. No business or any special interest groups including elderly,
handicapped or transit dependent would be need to be relocated with implementation of the
project within the Phase 1 APE.
No extensive realignment of the roadway within Phase 2 APE is proposed. Improvements within
the Phase 2 portion of the APE would involve intersection and widening improvements to the
existing roadway. As a result, no businesses or residences or any special interest groups would
need to be relocated with implementation of the proposed project within Phase 2.
Although implementation of the proposed project may indirectly affect local property values the
impact to property values of the economic vitality of existing businesses associated with
realignment and widening of the roadway is not anticipated to be significant. Realignment the
roadway within the Phase 1 APE may improve property values of existing residences located
north of La Costa Avenue by increasing the distance of these properties from the roadway and
associated noise issues. The bridge replacement and roadway widening proposed within Phase
2 APE adjacent to existing light industrial uses is not anticipated to adversely impact these
industrial uses considering that industrial uses are not typically considered to be sensitive
receptors to increased noise, and traffic associated with a roadway widening proposed project.
In addition, the area surrounding both the Phase 1 and 2 APE has been anticipated by the City
as a part of the General Plan to change from primarily vacant land to a mixed use urban
development area. Consequently, the proposed roadway realignment and widening is necessary
to accommodated planned growth in the area and no General Plan land use designations or
zoning restrictions on adjacent vacant properties that may affect property values would change
with implementation of the proposed project.
• Impacts to Planned Land Uses/Growth Inducement
The Final Alignment studies proposed for the Proposed project are necessary to implement the
alignment approved by the Circulation Element of the City General Plan. The Circulation
Element provides for transportation elements necessary to accommodate both existing demand
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-42
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
and planned growth within the City. Therefore, the proposed project would not induce growth
other than that anticipated by the General Plan or create any significant land use inconsistencies
with any policies, elements or goals of relevant land use planning documents.
Implementation of the Proposed project would not adversely affect planned lifestyles or planned
neighborhood character. The planned mixed use development within Phase 1 has accommodated
the alignment for the roadway called for in the City General Plan. Considering that the Final
Alignment studies for Phase 1 would implement the alignment approved in the City General
Plan, implementation of the proposed project would be consistent with the planned development
and neighborhood character. Improvements within the Phase 2 portion of the APE include
roadway widening and intersection improvements and do not involve a realignment that would
disrupt any existing development or the planned Meadowlands residential development.
Both the APE for Phases 1 and 2 are located outside of the Coastal Zone. Therefore, the proposed
project would not be inconsistent with a Coastal Zone Management Plan.
5.3.2 Public Services and Utilities f#s 8. 40. 41)
Combined Evaluation for Phases 1 and 2
Adoption of the proposed Final Alignment studies for the Proposed project would not generate
demand for sewer, water, natural gas, electrical utilities or for public services such as fire, police,
schools or solid waste disposal. 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 Final Alignment Studies and construction of
the roadway itself for both Phases 1 and 2 would not include any utiUty connections. In
addition, the proposed project would implement the Circulation Element of the General plan
and, therefore, would not generate population growth that would increase demand for public
services or any new utilities. As a result, implementation of the Proposed project would not
create any long term significant adverse impacts with respect to utilities and public services and
mitigation measures are not required.
Disposal of solid waste would be required during construction activities for both Phases 1 and
2. As discussed in SECTION 2.0, the proposed grading quantities would be balanced between cut
and fill materials. As a result, soil or rock would not need to be exported from the site. Solid
waste would consist primarily of some construction materials for the roadway. These materials
April 2000 1576-03
Envimnmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-43
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
would be taken to a local landfill. Considering that no export of soil is required, disposal of
construction materials would be minimal and would not adversely impact local landfills.
Therefore, mitigation is not required.
5.3.3 Historic and Archeolooical Resources (#s 40. 48. 53)
The following analysis is derived from the February 2000, Gallegos & Associates Historic
Property Survey Report for the Rancho Santa Fe Road Bridge Replacement Project. This study
included a literature review, record search, field surveys of the study area and a determination
of significance, effects, and mitigation of effects for both Phases 1 and 2 of the Proposed project.
The Gallegos study was prepared in accordance with the requirements of Section 106 of the
National Historic Preservation Act (36CFR800.4). As described further below, no sites listed or
considered to be eligible for the National Register were identified within the APE for either Phase
1 and 2. This report is incorporated by reference to this EA and is available for review at
Caltrans.
Affected Environment
Phase 1
A literature search and field survey of the Phase 1 portion of the project was completed in 1999
and 2000. The following sites were located within or in proximity to the APE for Phase 1:
• Archaeological site CA-SDI-1140 was determined to be not eligible for inclusion
in the National Register or the California Register. The site was tested in 1990
and identified as not significant.
• Archaeological site CA-SDI-942 (SDM-W-181) was initially recorded as within the
APE for phase 1. However, the site was tested to determine site significance by
Hanna (1991) and the site boundary was redefined. The redefined location placed
the site outside of the APE for phase 1.
Phase 2
The Phase 2 APE was surveyed by Gallegos & Associates in March and April 1997. No cultural
resources were identified during the field survey. The San Marcos Creek bridge was previously
evaluated for National Register eligibility by Caltrans (1987) during a historic bridge inventory
conducted between 1984 and 1986 and determined not to be eligible for listing.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-44
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
Three sites (CA-SDI-4498, CA-SDI-11569 and CA-SDI-11570), located adjacent to the study area
were relocated during the current study to the outside of the Phase 2 APE. Site CA-SDI-4498
consists of bedrock milling features with several flakes scattered around the outcrops, is located
outside the Phase 2 APE. Site CA-SDI-4498, recorded by Franklin (1981) consists of bedrock
milling features with several flakes scattered around the outcrops is located outside Phase 2 APE.
This site appears to be relatively undisturbed. Sites CA-SDI-11569 and CA-SDI-11570 are located
on knolls outside Phase 2 APE. CA-SDI-11569 was tested by Kyle and Gallegos (1992) and
determined to be significant. Site CA-SDI-11570 was tested by Gallegos and Pigniolo (1990) and
determined to be a significant resource. The maps obtained from the South Coastal Information
Center, San Diego State University and the San Diego Museum of Man show site CA-SDI-11570
to be within the study area, however, this is a mapping error as the site is actually located outside
Phase 2 APE.
Environmental Evaluation
Phase 1
Considering that Site CA-SDI-942 is not significant/eligible and has been determined outside of
the APE for phase 1 and Site CA-SDI-1140 has been recommended as not eligible, it is concluded
in the Historic Property Survey that implementation of Phase 1 would not impact significant
cultural resources. In addition, no further Section 106 responsibilities or surveys were required
for the proposed project.
Phase 2
There is no evidence to indicate the presence of historic or prehistoric archaeological sites within
the study area. The San Marcos Creek Bridge was placed in Category 5, identifying this structure
as not eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. Bridges listed in Category 5 require
no further evaluation under Caltrans guidelines. In addition, the San Marcos Creek Bridge was
built in 1978 and, therefore, does not meet the requirement of being 50 years or older to qualify
as a historical structure for the National Register of Historic Places. As a result, it is concluded
that implementation of Phase 2 would not adversely impact cultural resources.
A small pioneer cemetery, CA-SDM1444/H, is located outside the northern end of the Phase 2
APE. Two wooden crosses are currently present within a small wooden fence. Seven people are
known to be buried within part of a 5.7 acre site near the corner of Rancho Santa Fe Road and
Meadowlark Road. Apple Lilburn (1994) state that archival research indicates that the cemetery
April 2000 _1576:g3
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-45
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
may have been larger than the fenced area. Considering that construction within the Phase 2
APE is not proposed within 100-feet of the fenced portion of the cemetery, no additional testing
is required to avoid impacts to this site.
Combined Consequences of Phase 1 and 2
No significant cultural resources sites were identified within the APE for Phases 1 or 2. As a
result, the combined effects of both Phases 1 and 2 would be less than significant.
5.3.4 Transportation and Circulation (#s 42. 43. 44. 46. 51)
A traffic analysis was completed by the City in 1992 that addressed existing conditions and
evaluated the impacts of the proposed roadway realignment and widening on roadway and
intersection levels of services (LOS). The traffic study is included as an Appendix to the EIR
available for review at Caltrans.
Affected Environment
In general, the traffic study concluded that under existing conditions and planned 2010 buildout
traffic levels, intersections and roadway segments within the proposed project area either
currently operate at unacceptable levels or would operate at unacceptable LOS. Existing
conditions at affected roadway segments and intersections are summarized in Tables 5-3-1 through
5.3-4. As shown in Table 5-3-2, the LOS at existing unsignalized intersections are currently
unacceptable (LOS E or F) for some turn movements. As shown in Table 5-3-4, without
implementation of the proposed project levels of service at affected roadway segments were
acceptable at 1990 traffic volume levels but unacceptable at the 1995 traffic volumes. Under 2010
traffic levels, all road segments with the exception of Melrose Drive between Rancho Santa Fe
road and Alga Road would operate at LOS F (see Table 5-3-4).
April 2000 J^J^
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-46
Section 5.0
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
and Mitigation Measures
TABLE 5.3-1
EXISTING CONDITIONS - SIGNALIZED INTERSECTIONS
INTERSECTION
ICU/L0S(1)
INTERSECTION AM PEAK PM PEAK
Rancho Santa Fe Road & Melrose Drive North 0.81/D 0.77G
Rancho Santa Fe Road & La Costa Meadows Drive 0.76/C* 0.76/C*
Rancho Santa Fe Road & Questhaven Road 0.67/B* 0.72/C*
Rancho Santa Fe Road & La Costa Avenue 0.53/A 0.56/A
(1) IGU = Intersection Capacity Utilization
LOS = Level of Service
Unsignalized intersection, see Table 5.3-2.
TABLE 5.3-2
EXISTING CONDITIONS - UNSIGNALIZED INTERSECTIONS
1^
mt
(1)
(1)
INTERSECTION
'
ICU/L0S(1)
INTERSECTION AM PEAK PM PEAK
Rancho Santa Fe Road & La Costa Meadows Drive
Westbound Left Movement F F
Westbound Right Movement A C
Southbound Left Movement F C
Rancho Santa Fe Road & Questhaven Road
Westbound Left Movement F F
Westbound Right Movement A A
Southbound Left Movement C D
Based upon 1985 Highway Capacity Manual
LOS = Level of Service
ICU = Intersection Capacity Utilization
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-47
Section 5.0
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
and Mitigation Measures
TABLE 5.3-3
2010 CONDITIONS - INTERSECTIONS WITH
IMPLEMENTATION OF PROPOSED PROJECT
INTERSECTION
2010ICU/L0S (1)(2)
INTERSECTION AM PEAK PM PEAK
Rancho Santa Fe Road/Corintia Street & Melrose Drive 0.87/C 083/D
Rancho Santa Fe Road & La Costa Meadows Drive/Conntia Street 0.76/C 0.52/A
Rancho Santa Fe Road & Questhaven Road 0.70/B 0.84/D
Rancho Santa Fe Road & Melrose Drive 0.75/C 0.79/C
Rancho Santa Fe Road & La Costa Avenue 0.65/B 0.75/C
(1) ICU = Intersection Capacity utilization
LOS = Level of Service
(2) With Corintia Street opposite La Costa Meadow Drive, Melrose Drive forms °T" into Rancho Santa Fe Road.
TABLE 5.3-4
1990, 1995 AND 2010 CONDITIONS - ROAD SEGMENTS
1990 1995 2010
to Volume/Capacity "> Volume/Capacity (If
Ratio & LOS '" Ratio & LOS
Volume/
m» Daily Capacity Daily No Project Daily No Project Proposed
STREET/LOCATION Volume Ratio & LOS Volume Alternative Volume Alternative Project
tm Rancho Santa Fe Road between
m$ Questhaven Rd. & La Costa Ave. 18,3001^' 0.50/A 41,000 1.41/F 60,300 1.68/F 0.56/A
Rancho Santa Fe Road between 21.6001" 0.60/A 55,300 1.54/F 74,600 2.07/F 0.69/B
m Melrose Dr. & Questhaven Road
mt Rancho Santa Fe Road n/o Melrose Dr. 27.300'^' 0.76/C 45,000 1.25/F 52,900 1.47/F 0.49/A
Questhaven Road e/o Rancho Santa Fe Rd. 3,000'^' 0.08/A 15,300 0.43/A 50,200 1.39/F 0.70/B
m Melrose Drive Between Rancho Santa Fe 5,900'" 0.06/A 16,400 0.15/A 46,100 0.43/A 0.43/A
im Road and Alga Road
tt
Rancho Santa Fe Road s/o La Costa Ave. 18,900'^' 0.26/A 33,800 0.47/A 42.400 1.18/F 0.39/A
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
April 2000
Based upon City of Carisbad LOS E.
LOS = Level of Service
County conducted by City of Carlsbad, 1990.
Coun^ conducted by City of Carisbad, 1989.
County conducted by City of San Marcos, 1989.
1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-4
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
Combined Evaluation for Phases 1 and 2
Adoption of the proposed Final Alignment Studies for Phases 1 and 2 of the proposed project
would implement the traffic congestion relief anticipated by the City circulation element of the
General Flan and the State Regional Transportation Improvement Program. The proposed
realignment and widening is approved as a part of the City General Plan and is also identified
within the SANDAG Regional Transportation Improvement Program. Community benefits
from this proposed 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 proposed project vicinity to acceptable levels. The Final Alignment
studies include signals at the Rancho Santa Fe Road/Questhaven and Rancho Santa Fe
Road/Cadencia intersections as well as the final configuration for the Melrose Drive/Rancho
Santa Fe Road intersection (see SECTION 2.2.6 for further discussion). In addition, as shown in
Tables 5.3-3 and 5-3-4, implementation of the proposed roadway realignment, widening and
bridge replacement are necessary to bring service at roadway segments and intersections within
the project vicinity to acceptable levels. As shown in Table 5-3-4 with implementation of the
project all roadway segments would operate at the acceptable level of LOS B or above at the 2010
buildout traffic volumes, whereas without the project all but one of the segments analyzed
would operate at LOS F.
As discussed in SECTION 2.2.6, the City will implement a traffic control plan to avoid significant
short term impacts to traffic during construction. Construction of the proposed project would
not affect existing parking facilities or require extensive use of detours. During each phase the
existing roadway and the existing bridge would remain open for traffic.
Considering that with Phase 1 the road would be realigned to vacant land and Phase 2 would
involve primarily road widening, existing parking structures and lots would not be affected. All
staging areas are located within the APE for Phases 1 and 2 and no existing parking lots or
structures would be used. In addition, no alterations to airborne, rail or air traffic would be
required.
Implementation of the proposed project would not result in adverse impacts to the availability
of bicycle or pedestrian faciUties. The realigned roadway within Phases 1 and 2 would
incorporate a designated bicycle lane, designed in conformance with City standards. Although
the realigned roadway would not include a designated pedestrian access lane, existing pedestrian
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-49
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
access opportunities would not be adversely impacted considering that the existing roadway does
not include a designated pedestrian trail. In addition, signals will be provided at the Questhaven
and Melrose Drive intersections to accommodate pedestrian access.
5.3.5 The Relationship Between Short Term Uses of IVIan's Environment
and the Maintenance and Enhancement of Long Term Productivitv
(#54)
The short term effects of the proposed project are those associated with the construction of the
proposed project. As discussed in SECTION5.0, Discussion of Environmental Evaluation, construction
issues within the Phase 1 and 2 APE are related to noise, air quaUty, traffic and water quality.
However, measures have been incorporated in the design of the proposed project in accordance
with City and State requirements to avoid or minimize these short term construction impacts
to below a level of significance. Measures incorporated into the proposed project to minimize
these impacts are listed in SECTION 2.2.6 of this EA.
Implementation of the proposed project would, however, enhance the long term productivity of
the region. As discussed in SECTION 2.0, the proposed realignment, bridge replacement and
widening are intended to implement City General Plan and regional transportation studies. The
proposed project would implement the realignment and widening approved for the roadway as
a part of the City General Plan Circulation Element and the SANDAG Regional Transportation
Improvement Plan. All improvements incorporated into the City Circulation Element are
necessary to address existing traffic congestion issues and accommodate planned growth in the
City. Considering the proposed project would implement the Circulation Element of the General
Flan, the local short term effects from construction would be consistent with the maintenance
and enhancement of long term productivity for the local area.
5.4 Cumulative Impacts of Related Projects (#55]
As concluded in the previous discussion for each environmental category, no significant impacts
would occur with implementation of the proposed Final AUgnment Studies for the proposed
project. Measures are incorporated into the proposed Final Alignment Studies to avoid
significant impacts to Air QuaUty, Earth Resources, Water Resources, Bioiogical Resources,
Noise, Light and Glare, Visual Quality/Landform Alteration and Traffic/ Circulation. Specifically,
measures have been incorporated into the proposed project in accordance with that required by
the EIR to avoid significant impacts to Air Quality and to implement the mitigation credits of
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-50
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
the tiCP for mitigation of cumulative impacts to air quality and biological resources. Therefore,
in the absence of significant impacts or increase adoption of the proposed project would not
contribute to significant cumulative impacts associated with ongoing development.
5.5 No Project Altemative Environmental Evaluation
As described below, effects of the project on existing conditions within the Phase 1 and 2 APE
would not occur under the No Project Alternative. However, as discussed in SECTION 5.0 with
measures incorporated into the project the proposed project would not result in any significant
impacts. As a result, no significant impacts to the environment would be avoided under the No
Project Alternative.
Topography/Visual Resources
Under the No Project Alternative, the existing character of Rancho Santa Fe Road and the view
present from surrounding viewsheds would not be altered. The existing bridge over San Marcos
Creek would remain unchanged. Existing views from the industrial establishment located at the
junction of Melrose Drive and Rancho Santa Fe Road would remain unchanged. The existing
views of the creek present to travelers on both north and southbound Rancho Santa Fe Road
would remain. The No Project Alternative would not require concurrence with the City of
Carlsbad's Scenic Corridor Guidelines Manual.
Hazardous Materials
Under the No Project Alternative, the existing roadway would be utilized. As a result, no change
to existing conditions would occur and no exposure of people or property to hazardous materials
would occur.
Floodplain
Under the No Project Alternative the existing bridge would remain as well as the existing
floodplain structure. Water surface elevations as weU as calculated peak flows for 25,50 and, 100
year floods would remain under the No Project Alternative. Specifically, during a 25-year flood
event the WSEL would remain below the low chord of the existing bridge. During a 50-year
event the WSEL is approximately one foot over the top of the existing bridge. And during a 100-
year storm event, the existing bridge would be completely submerged.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-51
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
The structural integrity of the existing bridge would remain in jeopardy in the event of a 100-year
storm event. However, under the No Project Alternative, no additional impacts to the existing
floodplain would occur. No further benefits or liabilities would exist to natural and beneficial
floodplain uses. Finally, an increase in WSEL would not occur to the existing floodplain, but
rather all flood water levels would remain at current conditions.
Water Quality
Under the No Project Alternative, existing Rancho Santa Fe Road run-off quantity and quality
would continue to flow into San Marcos Creek. Expanding the surface area of the roadway
associated with phases 1 and 2 and the resulting increase in stormwater runoff would not occur.
Air Quality
Under the No Project Alternative, current air quality conditions would remain. Project-related
air quality impacts would not occur including impacts from short-term construction activities
and long-term roadway operations. The No Project Alternative would not create a change in
the location of automotive pollution sources, in the number of vehicles using the roadway, or in
the degree of congestion which currently occurs. Localized changes in air pollution patterns with
regards to elevated levels of primary (unreacted) air pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO)
would not occur. However, air quality improvements associated with improvements to traffic
flow associated with the proposed project would also not occur.
Noise
Under the No Project Alternative, existing noise conditions would remain. The area near the
junction of La Costa Meadows Drive and Rancho Santa Fe Road would continue to have a peak
average noise level of 70 dB during both the morning and evening commutes. The residential
area located at the northwest intersection of Melrose Drive and Corinita Street would continue
to have an average sound level of 63 dB approximately 10 feet from existing noise attenuation
walls. Rancho Santa Fe Road traffic noise levels would continue to range between 52 and 58 dB
within the vicinity of this residential area. Under this alternative, no noise related impacts would
occur.
Adverse traffic noise levels at the La Costa Avenue/Rancho Santa Fe Road intersection would
remain under the No Project Alternative. Existing residences currently are subjected to traffic
April 2000 JSTg^OS
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-52
t»
m
mt
Discussion of Env. Evaluation
Section 5.0 and Mitigation Measures
noise from the existing alignment which extends adjacent to the existing subdivision. The
proposed project would involve realignment of the roadway and an increase in the distance of
the roadway and subsequent traffic noise from these residences.
Biological Resources
Under the No Project Alternative, no APE would exist. Therefore, no existing conditions such
as those discussed above would be applicable to the proposed project. The relevance of any
sensitive species would no longer apply to the proposed project. The presence of existing plants
and animal species would no longer be potentially affected by the proposed improvements to
Rancho Santa Fe Road.
Under the No Project Alternative, no impacts to plant communities described above would occur.
Existing plant communities would remain in their current condition and state.
Under the No Project Alternative, no impacts to sensitive wildlife species such as the Cooper's
Hawk, two-striped garter snake and Dulzura California Pocket Mouse would occur. Existing
wildlife individuals would remain in their current condition and state.
The No Project Alternative would allow for present movement patterns of wildlife to continue.
No temporary impacts to corridors within San Marcos Creek would occur.
Historic Resources
Under the No Project Alternative, no additional grading or disturbance would occur. Therefore,
no impacts to cultural resources would occur. However it should be noted that implementation
of the proposed project would also not impact significant cultural resources.
April 2000 _1576:Q3
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement 5-53
il
m
SECTION 6.0
CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION
Coordination During Preparation of the EA
Issues raised by the public and interested agencies during the proposed project development
process have been given substantial consideration which is reflected in the proposed project
features listed in SECTION 2.0 of this EA. As discussed in SECTION 2.0, features of the Final
Alignment Studies have resulted from comments and concerns raised during public review of the
EIR prepared for the roadway realignment and widening by the City of Carlsbad as well as
coordination with local, state and federal agencies subsequent to certification of the EIR.
The foUowing agencies, organizations and/or individuals were consulted and coordinated with
during proposed project development by Caltrans staff prior to agency review of the EA:
United States
Federal Highway Administration
Fish and Wildlife Service
Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service
Department of Housing and Urban Development
Army Corps of Engineers
State of California
Department of Fish and Game
Regional Water Quality Control Board
State Office of Historic Preservation
Local Agencies
m City of Carlsbad
IMl Doug Helming, City Project Manager
Don Rideout, Planning Department
In accordance with the requirements of NEPA and the Federal Endangered Species act
CALTRANS and the City requested a list of threatened and endangered species present in the
proposed project area from the USFWS. The concerns of the USFWS were incorporated into the
biological resources report prepared for this document.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment & Bridge Reconstruction 6-1
li
li
Section 6.0 Consultation and Coordination
The City of Carlsbad was also consulted during preparation of the MND. The City of Carlsbad
Engineering and Planning Departments were consulted on issues related to ongoing and planned
development and utility proposed projects within the vicinity. The City of Carlsbad also
provided information on the appropriate statutes and planning documents relevant to the
proposed project.
The cultural resources report prepared for the proposed project was prepared in accordance with
the requirements of the SHPO and Section 106 compliance. The cultural resources report
concluded that the proposed project would not contribute to the loss of cultural resources. As
discussed in SECTI0N5.3.3 Historic Resources, implementation of the proposed project would not
directly impact any known cultural sites of significance. In addition, environmental
commitments of the proposed project allow the proposed project to be postponed in order to
accommodate for the testing and study of any cultural resource discovered during construction.
The City has also consulted with the AOE and the NRCS related to wetlands and a wetland
delineation within the Phase 1 and 2 APE. The City is currently processing permits with the
ACOE in accordance with Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment & Bridge Reconstruction 6-2
mt
k
SECTION 7.0
ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION PERSONNEL
The following people were principally responsible for preparing the EA or significant background
papers:
D, Gallegos - Cultural Study
Contract Archaeologist; B.A. and M.A. in Anthropology
H. Giroux - Air Studies
Contract Air Quality Specialist; B.A.
L Harry - Environmental Planner/Document Preparation
Contact Environmental Planner, Dudek & Associates, Inc. ; B.S. in Environmental
Planning
P. Helming - City of Carlsbad
Project Manager, City of Carlsbad; B.S.
M. Komula - Noise Study
Contract Acoustician; B.A. Geography, M.S. Acoustics
R,1, Kelsay - Environmental Planner
Senior Environmental Planner; B.A. in Anthropology, M.A. Anthropology
G, Masutani - Water Quality
Contract Water Quality Specialist, B.S. Civil Engineering; M.S. Engineering
Registered P.E.
S. Miller - Biology Study
Contract Biologist; B.S. and M.A. in Biology
If M. Owens, - Environmental Analyst and Document Coordinator
Environmental Planner;
IM 1. Porteous - Environmental Planner
Contact Environmental Planner, Dudek & Associates, Inc.; B.S. and M.A. in Geology
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment & Bridge Reconstmction 7-1
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Section 7.0 Environmentai Evaluation Personnel
M.P. Rosen - Archaeological Study
Senior Environmental Planner (Cultural Resources); BA and M.A. in Anthropology
P. Quinlan - Hazardous Materials
Contract Hazardous Materials Specialist; B.S
April 2000 1576-03
Environmental Assessment • Rancho Santa Fe Road Realignment & Bridge Reconstmction 7- 2