HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-11-27; City Council; ; Terramar Area Coastal Improvement Project, Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Project No. 6054CA Review ---
~ CITY COUNC I L
~ Staff Report
Meeting Date:
To:
From:
Staff Contact:
Subject:
Recommended Action
Nov. 27, 2018
Mayor and City Council
Scott Chadwick, City Manager
Jonathan Schauble, Senior Engineer
jonathan.schauble@carlsbadca.gov or 760-602-2762
Terramar Area Coastal Improvement Project, Capital Improvement
Program (CIP) Project No. 6054
Adopt a resolution authorizing staff to proceed with environmental review, permitting and final
engineering of the Terramar Area Coastal Improvement Project, CIP Project No. 6054 (Exhibit
1).
Executive Summary
The stretch of Carlsbad Boulevard roughly between Cannon Road and Manzano Drive is
currently a two-lane road without sidewalks, or designated parking. The road presents a unique
challenge in that it is the only way to access the coastline between Cannon Road and Palomar
Airport Road, making it heavily traveled. Yet it is also flanked by homes on both sides, with
driveway access directly onto Carlsbad Boulevard. Previous plans to widen Carlsbad Boulevard
to what amounts to a four-lane highway through a residential neighborhood have evolved into
a project that provides a better balance for those who travel on the road and those who live in
the neighborhood. Following more than three years of technical analysis and community
engagement, the project team is seeking the City Council's authorization to proceed with
selection of the alternative that best meets the projects goals.
Discussion
Nearly 10 years ago, the City of Carlsbad began a two-year community engagement process
called Envision Carlsbad, which included community workshops, surveys, a community advisory
group and other outreach. The result of this process was the Carlsbad Community Vision, a set
of nine core values that guides decisions about city resources and priorities. Some of these
include retaining Carlsbad's small town feel and beach community character, preserving the
natural environment, providing access to recreation and active lifestyles, enhancing community
connectivity, and providing better options for walking and biking in Carlsbad. The City Council
adopted the vision in 2010.
November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 1 of 43
Challenges of Coastal Planning in Carlsbad
The city and state each own many small, non-contiguous parcels from Terra mar to Ponto,
creating a jurisdictional jigsaw puzzle that has made high-quality planning challenging at best.
Over the years, the state and city have tried to solve this coordination issue by exploring the
idea of one agency purchasing land from the other or the two agencies swapping land of equal
value. During the most recent attempt, which started in 2009, city and state staff made
significant progress in identifying potential parcels to exchange and the regulatory process
needed for approval; however, after initial environmental studies were completed, it became
clear that further negotiations would be needed, followed by years of legal and regulatory
hurdles.
At its Oct. 15, 2013 meeting, the City Council determined that the way to make the most
immediate progress on fulfilling the Carlsbad Community Vision was focusing on improvements
on land the city owns and controls, while continuing to explore potential partnership
opportunities with the state. Subsequently, in 2015, the City Council further solidified its
commitment to coastal improvements by adopting a goal to enhance its coastline making it
easier to get there and to provide a better experience in all the ways people want to use it.
Terramar Project
One of the first major steps reflecting City Council's direction to focus improvements on land it
owns or controls was to address long standing traffic and safety concerns in the area known as
Terramar.
The stretch of Carlsbad Boulevard roughly between Cannon Boulevard and Manzano Street is
currently a two-lane road without sidewalks, or designated parking. The road presents a unique
challenge in that it is the only way to access the coastline between Cannon Road and Palomar
Airport Road, making it heavily traveled. Yet is also flanked by homes on both sides, with
driveway access directly onto Carlsbad Boulevard. Until the most recent General Plan update
was completed in 2015, this road was slated to be widened to four lanes, utilizing the city's full
right of way.
The widening of Carlsbad Boulevard to four lanes had long been a concern of neighbors, who
feared it would encourage the use of Carlsbad Boulevard as an alternative to Interstate highway
5 (1-5) through their neighborhood, significantly affecting the neighborhood's character and
safety. The community at large also had an opportunity to weigh in on the future of this area
through the General Plan update process.
Ultimately, when it was approved in 2015, the updated General Plan Mobility Element changed
the designation of this roadway to a "Coastal Street," which provides for a wider array of
options for meeting traffic, safety and overall mobility needs in the area.
Project Area
The project area (Exhibit 2) includes almost one mile of Carlsbad Boulevard from approximately
1,700 feet north of Tierra Del Oro south to approximately 200 feet south of Manzano Drive,
2 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 2 of 43
including the coastal bluff top across from the Encina Power Station. The project area also
includes about one-quarter mile along Cannon Road from Carlsbad Boulevard east to the
railroad tracks.
The bluff top area across from the Encina Power Station is approximately 2.8 acres. This area is
currently owned by NRG; however, the city will acquire this land as part of executed
agreements related to the Claude "Bud" Lewis Carlsbad Desalination Plant and the new power
plant, known as the Carlsbad Energy Center Project.
Purpose and Need
The project area has a number of problems that need to be addressed from the standpoint of
safety, mobility, beach access, shoreline protection and neighborhood quality of life (Exhibit 3):
• Lack of sidewalks results in walkers, bicyclists, joggers, strollers and other users
competing to share the shoulder or use the street, where cars speed by.
• Parking is haphazard, making it hard to see around parked cars and forcing walkers and
bicyclists suddenly into the street.
• Beachgoers often park on neighborhood streets, limiting parking for people who live
there.
• Stop-and-go traffic degrades the neighborhood quality of life because of noise and
emissions.
• Cars get backed up on busy summer months and speed during less busy times, both of
which can make it difficult for residents to pull out of their driveways onto Carlsbad
Boulevard or access Carlsbad Boulevard from side streets.
• The blufftop is heavily utilized, yet lack of designated walkways has resulted in too many
informal paths and increased erosion of the cliff.
• Large, uneven chunks of asphalt left over from a previous alignment of Carlsbad
Boulevard remain on the blufftop.
• Without a designated path to the beach, people could choose a route that is unstable,
too steep or otherwise not suitable for walking.
• The blufftop area is a prime gathering area but has no place to sit, limited trash and
recycling containers, no bike racks and no drinking fountains.
Project Goals
To address these concerns, city staff created the Terramar Area Coastal Improvements Project
with the following goals:
• Create a balanced road that is safe and attractive to cars, bikes and pedestrians
• Maintain traffic flow with vehicle speeds compatible with a residential neighborhood
• Improve the area's aesthetics and, where possible, add amenities, with an emphasis on
Carlsbad's natural beauty
• Protect, balance and enhance the quality of life for the surrounding neighborhood and
community in general
• Improve access to the coast and create an enhanced connection between the beach and
the community
3 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 3 of 43
• Create a special place and experience for residents and users
Public Engagement Process
Given the important role the coast plays in the lives of Carlsbad residents, and the unique
attributes of the project area, city staff consulted with stakeholders from the very beginning of
the project's design.
Project Scoping (July/Aug. 2015)
The project team met first with Terramar neighbors to identify their priorities and concerns.
The broader community was then asked to provide input through an online survey. City staff
also went to the project site to solicit input directly from users. In all, more than 1,000
comments were received. Themes emerging from the community included:
• Safety first
• Protect neighborhood quality of life
• Improve traffic flow
• Balance cars, bikes and pedestrians
• Keep the natural look and feel of the bluff-top
• Don't draw too much activity to the area/Like it the way it is
• Make it easier to get down to the beach and protect the bluff from erosion
Initial Concepts (Nov./Dec. 2015)
Based on community input, the city prepared several conceptual designs, two for the roadway
and three for the bluff-top area, and invited feedback through a public workshop, on line survey
and one-on-one meetings with neighborhood residents.
Current Concepts (Nov. 2017)
Based on public input and technical analysis, the project team narrowed the focus to one
conceptual design for the coastal bluff top area and two conceptual design alternatives for the
roadway. The roadway alternatives differ in how the two Carlsbad Boulevard intersections with
Cannon Road and Cerezo Drive are controlled: one alternative proposes roundabouts, and the
other alternative proposes traffic signals (see Exhibit 4). Staff again held a public meeting,
solicited input on line, went to the project site to gather feedback and met with owners of
neighboring properties and agencies.
Commissions and Committees (Dec. 2017-April 2018)
City staff shared the current project designs and made presentations to the following
stakeholders and commissions in the past six months:
• California State Parks
• Beach Preservation Committee
• California Coastal Commission
• Parks and Recreation Commission
• Traffic Safety Commission
4 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 4 of 43
Conceptual Designs
On July 17, 2018, staff presented the conceptual designs for the bluff-top area and two
roadway alternatives to the City Council. That information is contained in the Staff Report dated
July 17, 2018 and is attached as Exhibit 6.
Travel Time Analysis
At the July 2018 City Council meeting, staff was asked to evaluate a combination of traffic
signals and roundabouts at two intersections, Cannon Road and Cerezo Drive. Since that
meeting, staff has completed an additional travel time analysis to compare to the two original
alternatives to two new hybrid alternatives:
• Alt. No. 1: a traffic signal at Cannon Road and a traffic signal at Cerezo Drive.
• Alt. No. 2: a roundabout at Cannon Road and a roundabout at Cerezo Drive.
• Alt. No. 3: a roundabout at Cannon Road and a traffic signal at Cerezo Drive.
• Alt. No. 4: a traffic signal at Cannon Road and a roundabout at Cerezo Drive.
The analysis found the following:
• All four alternatives are viable from a traffic analysis standpoint.
• Alternatives with one or two roundabouts typically result in slightly longer travel times
through the project area when compared to two traffic signals.
o The longer travel times are primarily related to slower vehicle speeds and the
traffic calming effects of roundabouts.
o Speeding was identified as a significant concern by the community.
• The travel time estimates and the average speed estimates for all four of the above
project alternatives are shown in Exhibit 5.
Preferred Alternative
While all roadway alternatives generally meet the project goals and provide numerous
improvements to the project area, Alternative No. 2, with roundabouts at both intersections,
better meets the project goals for the following reasons:
1. Safety
Studies have shown that roundabouts are much safer than signalized intersections for
numerous reasons:
• Roundabouts reduce the number of conflict points for all modes of transportation.
Conflict points are places where vehicle, bicycle or pedestrian paths cross, which is a
possible location for a collision to occur. Intersections with fewer conflict points are
considered safer.
• Roundabouts reduce the severity of accidents because vehicle speeds through
roundabouts are lower than signalized intersections.
• Due to the circular, one-way traffic flow, roundabouts also reduce the severity of
vehicular collisions by reducing the likelihood of head-on and t-bone collisions.
• Roundabouts will allow a safe and legal U-turn movement, which is not possible with
the signalized intersections in this Project due to limited right-of-way. Roundabouts will
5 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 5 of 43
make it unnecessary for motorists to turn into the residential neighborhood to turn
around.
• Roundabouts provide traffic calming effects that will reduce the speed of vehicular
traffic through the corridor.
2. Air Quality
• Generally speaking, since roundabouts promote a steady flow of traffic and reduce
vehicle idling, studies have shown that roundabouts decrease fuel consumption and
decrease vehicular emissions. This means less air pollution and fewer greenhouse gases
emitted to the atmosphere.
3. Noise
• Traffic noise prediction modeling was performed for both of the two original
alternatives at the Cannon Road and Carlsbad Boulevard intersection.
o Due to reduced stopping, starting, braking and accelerating, the roundabout
alternative was predicted to be quieter than the signal alternative by one to
three decibels. Note: a three-decibel reduction is approximately equal to a 19%
reduction in loudness.
o Similar results can be expected at the Cerezo Drive and Carlsbad Boulevard
intersection.
4. Multi-Modal and Traffic Analyses
• Multi-Modal Level of Service analysis shows that the two roundabouts alternative
provides better service for bicycles and pedestrians than the signal alternative.
• Caltrans' Intersection Control Evaluation {ICE) methodology compares the two
intersection alternatives for 12 performance measures in four categories: traffic, safety,
design, and costs.
o The ICE evaluation shows that the roundabout is equal or superior to the traffic
signal for 10 of the 12 performance measures at the Cannon Road intersection;
therefore, the roundabout is the recommended intersection control method at
the Carlsbad Boulevard/Cannon Road intersection.
o At the Carlsbad Boulevard/Cerezo Drive intersection, the ICE report shows the
two alternatives are equal; however, due to the safety and mobility benefits of
the roundabout, the ICE report recommends roundabout control at this
intersection.
5. Compliance with Climate Action Plan
• The two roundabouts alternative will reduce greenhouse gases when compared to the
two signals alternative by promoting pedestrian and bicycle transportation, decreasing
fuel consumption, and decreasing vehicular emissions.
In addition, Alternative No. 2 better addresses more of the major concerns raised during the
public outreach process as follows:
6 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 6 of 43
• The speed of vehicular traffic through the corridor. Roundabouts provide traffic calming
effects that will reduce the speed of vehicles more than traffic signals.
• Cut-through traffic driving through the neighborhood. Roundabouts will provide for a
more continuous flow of traffic on Carlsbad Boulevard, thereby reducing the temptation
to cut-through the neighborhood.
• Vehicles making u-turns within the neighborhood. Roundabouts will allow for safe and
legal U-turn movements, which is not possible with the signalized intersections. With
roundabouts it is unnecessary for vehicles to enter the residential neighborhood to turn
around.
• Bike and pedestrian safety in the corridor. Multi-Modal Level of Service traffic analysis
show that the two roundabouts alternative provides safer and better service for bicycles
and pedestrians.
Project Concerns
During the course of the project, staff worked closely with community members and neighbors
to develop a project that provided a balanced approach, given the unique nature of the project
area. However, some concerns remain:
Concern Response
If a roundabout provides for a slow The roundabout option is better than or the same
and steady flow of traffic, will there as existing conditions in this regard. Gaps in traffic
ever be a break at Cerezo to allow will be created whenever there is a conflicting
residents to safely pull out of their movement at the roundabout, including bicycles
driveways? and pedestrians. Also, slower vehicle speeds make
it easier for drivers to pull out of driveways.
Will visitors to Carlsbad cause a traffic Many cities throughout the world with large
safety threat because they will be tourism populations have successfully used
unfamiliar with how to use roundabouts. The slower rate of speed mitigates
roundabouts? potential driver confusion.
Will installing roundabouts slow down Carlsbad Boulevard is not meant to be an
traffic, making it more difficult to use alternative to 1-5, and staff does not want to design
Carlsbad Boulevard as a way to avoid a road that encourages more of this cut-through
using 1-5. traffic, which causes safety and environmental
concerns.
Will removing the center turn lane Instead of turning across oncoming traffic, residents
make it too difficult for residents along would instead utilize the roundabouts to safely
Carlsbad Boulevard to turn into their change directions and then turn right into their
properties? driveways.
Can fire engines and other emergency Yes. The city's Police and Fire departments have
vehicles get around roundabouts worked with the project team to ensure
safely and quickly? roundabouts will not impede response times or
public safety.
7 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 7 of 43
Concern Response
Without a center turn lane, how will Emergency responders are experienced navigating
police and fire vehicles get to many different types of roads in all stages of
emergency calls during high traffic congestion. Police and fire officials have
times? determined the roundabouts alternative will not
impede response times or public safety.
Is reverse angle parking proposed on Reverse angle parking has a number of safety and
the west side of Carlsbad Boulevard, operational advantages:
south of Cerezo Drive, safe? • Provides motorists with better visibility of
bicyclists, pedestrians and other vehicles as they
exit a parking space facing forward.
• Eliminates the risk of a bicyclist being "doored"
when cycling next to a parallel parked car.
• Positions the trunk of the vehicle in the
"unloading zone" instead of the roadway,
making it easier and safer to unload the back of
the vehicle.
• Aligns vehicle doors away from traffic and
toward the sidewalk, increasing safety for
children entering and exiting the vehicle.
• Increases parking capacity (10-12 more spaces)
over parallel parking.
What about drivers causing traffic Drivers will need to back up along the roadway
backups or unsafe conditions when regardless, either as they park or as they leave.
they are maneuvering into a space? Doing it as they park has more safety advantages.
What about tourists unfamiliar with Many areas frequented by tourists have
reverse angle parking? successfully used reverse angle parking, including
Del Mar. Carlsbad has recently installed reverse
angle parking on Beech Avenue and users are
successfully navigating the new parking design.
What about people driving Signs and striping will remind drivers to follow
northbound who suddenly see an open traffic laws, and they will be enforced by police.
spot and turn into oncoming traffic to
get it?
Prior City Council Actions
Oct. 15, 2013: City Council directed staff to pursue livable streets improvements on Carlsbad
Boulevard and expanded the area in which improvement projects should be initiated to include
the area from the north city limit to the south city limit. In addition, City Council directed staff
to pursue an expanded partnership with California State Parks to enhance the beach
experience.
March 2015: Carlsbad Boulevard Improvements Status Report provided to the City Council by
staff.
8 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 8 of 43
Feb. 16, 2016: City Council Goal Workshop, which includedd discussion of goal to enhance the
Carlsbad coastline.
March 15, 2016: Carlsbad Boulevard Improvements Status Report provided to the City Council
by staff.
April 19, 2016: Approved Resolution No. 2016-072 for 2016 City Council goals.
July 19, 2016: Status Report on 2016 City Council goals provided to the City Council by staff.
Feb. 21, 2017: City Council Goal Workshop, which included discussion of goals to enhance the
Carlsbad coastline.
March 18, 2017: City Council Goal Workshop, including discussion of goal to enhance the
Carlsbad coastline.
March 28, 2017: Approved Resolution No. 2017-053 for 2017 City Council Goals.
Aug. 15, 2017: Status Report on 2017 City Council Goals provided to the City Council by staff.
Feb. 27, 2018: Status Report on 2917 City Council Goals provided to the City Council by staff.
March 20, 2018: City Council Goal workshop, which included discussion of goal to enhance the
Carlsbad coastline.
April 17, 2018: Approved Resolution No. 2018-052 for 2018 City Council Goals.
July 17, 2018: Project update and overview of alternatives provided to the City Council by staff.
Staff Recommendation
Based on the project's goals, staff recommends that City Council select Alternative No. 2, the
two roundabouts alternative, as the preferred project alternative and authorize staff to
proceed with environmental review, permitting and final engineering of the Terramar Area
Coastal Improvement Project.
However, all four alternatives are viable and will address safety concerns, , minimal and
haphazard on-street parking, and lack of existing improvements for bicyclists and pedestrians in
the project area.
Fiscal Analysis
Preliminary cost estimates have been developed for the two original Project alternatives. The
estimates include preliminary design, engineering, technical studies, environmental review,
administration, construction and inspection. Excluding funds already spent, the total future
Project cost for the two roundabouts alternative is estimated to be $7.1 million, and the total
future Project cost for the two traffic signals alternative is estimated to be $7.4 million. The
available balance for this project to date is $5.5 million. The current appropriations include a
mix of Traffic Impact Fees, TransNet Local funds, General Capital Construction funds, and Sewer
Capital Replacement funds. The necessary appropriation to cover the estimated project deficit
will be requested through the CIP budget process for fiscal year 2019-20 and likely will consist
of Traffic Impact Fees. There are currently sufficient Traffic Impact Fees available for this
request.
9 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 9 of 43
TERRAMAR AREA COASTAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT, CIP PROJECT NO. 6054
Appropriations to Date $6,650,000
Expenditures and Encumbrances to Date $1,146,694
TOTAL AVAILABLE BALANCE $5,503,306
TWO ROUNDABOUTS ALTERNATIVE
Estimated Future Environmental/Permitting/Engineering Costs $1,000,000
Estimated Future Construction Costs $6,100,000
ESTIMATED FUTURE PROJECT COSTS $7,100,000
ESTIMATED ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION NEEDED $1,596,694
TWO TRAFFIC SIGNALS ALTERNATIVE
Estimated Future Environmental/Permitting/Engineering Costs $1,000,000
Estimated Future Construction Costs $6,400,000
ESTIMATED FUTURE PROJECT COSTS $7,400,000
ESTIMATED ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION NEEDED $1,896,694
Next Steps
The Project team will move forward with environmental review, permitting, final engineering,
and construction drawings. Below is an estimated timeline:
Summer 2019 City staff completes the environmental document per California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines and processes a
Coastal Development Permit for a Public Hearing before the
Planning Commission for project components within the city's
permit jurisdiction.
Winter 2020 California Coastal Commission (CCC) reviews and approves a
Coastal Development Permit for project components within the
CCC's permit jurisdiction.
Summer 2020 City Council authorizes bidding for construction and awards
construction contract.
Winter 2021 Project construction begins.
Fall 2022 Estimated construction completion.
Environmental Evaluation (CEQA)
The Project will require completion of an Initial Study to determine the level of environmental
review that will be required for the Project. Selecting a Project alternative in which to pursue
environmental review, permitting, and final engineering does not commit the city to any
definite course of action and does not foreclose potential alternatives or mitigation measures.
10 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 10 of 43
Public Notification
This item was noticed in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act and was available for public
viewing and review at least 72 hours prior to the scheduled meeting date. Significant additional
public engagement and involvement is described in the previous Staff Report dated July 17,
2018 (Exhibit 6).
Exhibits
1. Resolution.
2. Project Area Map.
3. Existing Conditions.
4. Alternative Comparison Table.
5. Time Travel Estimates and Average Speed Estimates.
6. Staff Report from July 17, 2018, City Council workshop.
11 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 11 of 43
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-201
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD,
CALIFORNIA, SELECTING ALTERNATIVE NO. 3, A ROUNDABOUT AT CANNON
ROAD AND A TRAFFIC SIGNAL AT CEREZO DRIVE ALTERNATIVE, AS THE
PREFERRED PROJECT ALTERNATIVE AND AUTHORIZING STAFF TO MOVE
FORWARD WITH ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW, PERMITTING, AND FINAL
ENGINEERING OF THE TERRAMAR AREA COASTAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT,
PROJECT NO. 6054.
EXHIBIT 1
WHEREAS, on Oct. 15, 2013, City Council directed staff to pursue livable streets improvements
on Carlsbad Boulevard and expanded the area in which improvement projects should be initiated to
include the area from the north city limit to the south city limit.
WHEREAS, on Feb. 16, 2016, the City Council goals workshop included discussion of a goal to
enhance the Carlsbad coastline.
WHEREAS, the City Council received a presentation on July 17, 2018 for the Terramar Area
Coastal Improvement Project that included background information, public outreach efforts, project
alternatives, and technical analysis; and
WHEREAS, the project team has completed preliminary design and technical studies and is
ready to move forward with environmental review, permitting, and final engineering for the Terramar
Area Coastal Improvement Project; and
WHEREAS, staff has presented the project alternatives for City Council consideration and staff
has made their recommendation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, California, as
follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct.
2. That the City Council selects Alternative No. 3, a roundabout at Cannon Road and a
traffic signal at Cerezo Drive alternative, as the preferred project alternative.
3. That the City Council directs that Alternative No. 3 shall include a center turn lane from
North Shore Drive south to Cerezo Drive.
4. That staff is authorized to move forward with environmental review, permitting, and
final engineering for the selected project alternative of the Terramar Area Coastal
Improvement Project, Project No. 6054.
November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 12 of 43
EXHIBIT 1
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of
Carlsbad on the 27th day of November, 2018, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
M. Schumacher, C. Schumacher, M. Packard.
M. Hall, K. Blackburn.
None.
MATT HALL, Mayor
(SEAL)
November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 13 of 43
on bluff top Id pavement
November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 16 of 43
Exhibit 4
ALTERNATIVE COMPARISON TABLE
Signal Alternative Roundabout Alternative
Features to discourage cut-Good Better through traffic in neighborhoods
Consistent with community
values, project goals, and General Good Better
Plan
Parking Adds 115 parking spots Adds 83 parking spots
Noise1 No change1 Quieter (by 1-3 decibels)1
Estimated travel time through 1 min, 59 sec2 2 min, 1 sec2
project area northbound (AM)2
Estimated travel time through . 1 min, 58 sec2 2 min, 30 sec2
project area southbound (AM)2
Estimated travel time through 5 min, 3 sec2 4 min, 17 sec2
project area northbound (PM)2
Estimated travel time through 2 min, 10 sec2 2 min, 33 sec2
project area southbound (PM)2
Safety for bikes and pedestrians3 Safer than current conditions Much Safer than Signal
Alternative3
Vehicular Safety3 No change Much Safer than Signal
Alternative3
Air Quality/GHG4 No change Lower emissions4
1 Traffic noise prediction modeling was conducted using Federal Highway Administration Traffic Noise
Model Version 2.5 (TNM) at the Cannon Road intersection.
2 Actual travel times through the project area were measured for existing conditions and compared to
a Synchro-based model for calibration. Then travel times were estimated for all alternatives using
Rodel for delay at roundabouts and Synchro for delay at signals.
3 By reducing the number and severity of conflict points and lowering vehicle speeds through the
intersection, roundabouts are significantly safer [USDOT, Federal Highway Administration website:
https://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/intersection/innovative/roundabouts/ See also: Persand, B.N. et al.
(2001) Safety effect of roundabout conversions in the United States. Transportation Research
Record.]
4 By reducing vehicle idling, roundabouts significantly decrease fuel consumption and emissions based
on analysis conducted by San Diego County Air Pollution Control District [Silva-Send, Nilmini (2009)
Reducing Greenhouse Gases from On-Road Transportation in San Diego County. Energy Policy
Initiatives Center, USD. See also: USEPA, Average Annual Emissions and Fuel Consumption for
Gasoline-Fueled Passenger Cars and Light Trucks (2008).)
November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 17 of 43
Travel Time Estimates
Carlsbad Boulevard -Palomar Air_E>_ort Road to Warm Water Jetties
Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3 Alternative 4
Cannon Rd -Signal Cannon Rd -Roundabout Cannon Rd -Roundabout Cannon Rd -Signal
Cerezo Dr -Signal Cerezo Dr -Roundabout Cerezo Dr-Signal Cerezo Dr-Roundabout
Travel Time Travel Time I Li I % Travel Time I Li I % Travel Time I Li
AM
Northbound 1 min, 59 sec 2 min, 01 sec I 0 min, 02 sec I 2% 1 min, 58 sec 1-o min, 02 sec I -1% 2min,03sec I 0min,04sec
Southbound lmin, 58sec 2 min, 30 sec I 0 min, 32 sec I 27% 2min,04sec I 0min,06sec I 5% 2min,25sec I 0min,26sec
PM
Northbound 5 min, 03 sec 4 min, 17 sec 1-o min, 46 sec! -15% 4 min, 04 sec 1-o min, 59 sec I -19% 5 min, 16 sec I 0 min, 13 sec
Southbound 2min,10sec 2 min, 33 sec I 0 min, 22 sec I 17% 2 min, 17 sec I 0 min, 07 sec I 5% 2min, 26sec I 0min, 16sec
I:,= Change from Alternative 1
% = Percent Change from Alternative 1
Average Speed Estimates (MPH}
Carlsbad Boulevard -Palomar Airport Road to Warm Water Jetties
Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3 Alternative 4
Cannon Rd -Signal Cannon Rd -Roundabout Cannon Rd -Roundabout Cannon Rd -Signal
Cerezo Dr -Signal Cerezo Dr-Roundabout Cerezo Dr -Signal Cerezo Dr-Roundabout
AM
Northbound 30.5 30.0 30.9 29.6
Southbound 30.7 24.2 29.2 25.1
PM
Northbound 12.0 14.1 14.9 11.5
Southbound 28.0 23.8 26.6 24.9
%
3%
22%
4%
12%
m X :::,
O'"
~
u,
November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 18 of 43
to live and a top visitor destination. Carlsbad's enviable quality of life ?tfso plays a key role in
attracting highly desrrable businesses that provide high paying jobs and a diverse economy.
The City Council made it a goal to enhance its coastline to ensure an exceptional experience for
all who use it. The Terramar Area Coastal Improvement ProJect is one of the first major
projects to support this goal.
Project Area
The Project area indudes Carlsbad Boulevard from just south of the warm water jetties
southward to Manzano Drive, including the coastal bluff top across from the Encina Power
Station. It also indudes Cannon Road from Carlsbad Boulevard east to the railroad tracks. The
Project only includes land owned or controlled by the city.
The bluff top area across from the Encina Power Station is currently owned by NRG, however
the city will acquire this land as part of the agreements reiated to the Poseiden Desalination
Plant and the new power plant currently under construction, known as the Carlsbad Energy
Center Project.
Project Goats
The following Project goals were developed with community lnput:
• Create a balanced road that ls safe and attractive for cars, bikes, and pedestrians.
• Maintain traffic flow with vehicle speeds compatible with a residential neighborhood.
• Improve the aesthetics of the area and add amenities, with an emphasis on the area's
natural beauty.
• Protect, balance and enhance the quality of life for the neighborhood and the
community.
• Improve access to the coast and create an enhanced connectton between the beach and
the community.
• Create a special place and experience for residents and users.
Proposed Project Alternatives
Following significant public input and technical analysls, city staff have prepared one
conceptual design fur the coastal bluff top area and two conceptual design alternatives for the
roadway. The roadway alternatives differ ln how the two Carlsbad Boulevard intersections with
Cannon Road and Cerezo Drive are controlled: one alternative proposes roundabouts1 and the
other alternative proposes traffic signals at these intersections.
Features Shared by Both Alternatives
Both roadway conceptual design alternatives meet the Project goals and provide the following
improvements in the Project area:
• A significant increase in additional on~street parking outside of the Terra mar
neighborhood (on Carlsbad Boulevard and on Cannon Road).
• Pedesttian sidewalks on both sides of the roadways.
July 17, 2018 Item #7 Page 2 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 20 of 43
• Bicycle lanes on both sides of the roadways,
• Coastal bluff-top improvements to reduce erosion and provide small, intimate gathering
and seating areas.
• A revegetated bluff top to reduce erosion.
" Two designated and improved pathways to the beach.
• Bike racks and drinking fountains in the Project area.
• Recycling and trash receptacles throughout the Project area.
• High visibility crosswalks with rapid flashing beacon ltghts.
• Curb extensions to discourage cut-through traffic through the Terra mar neighborhood
and to create safer pedestrian crossings.
• Landscaped areas adJac:enttothe sidewalk, where possible.
• Enhanced bus stops in the area of Cannon Park.
Walking and Biking Improvements
The following walking and biking improvements are included in both Project alternatives:
• Sidewalks on both sides ,of Carlsbad Boulevard through the Terramar neighborhood
where none c:urrrently exist today.
• Buffered bike lanes, where space allows, on both sides of Carlsbad Boulevard and
Cannon Road.
• High visibility crosswalks with rapid flashing beacon lights.
• On the west side of Carlsbad Boulevard, from the warm water jetties area south to
Cannon Road, a 10-foot wide multi~use path is proposed with a five~foot wide loading
and unloading zone:
o Existing parallel parking will remain on the west side of Carlsbad Boulevard,
along with a buffered bike lane
o These improvements can be constructed without widening the roadway or
impacting the coastal bluff property by repurposing the second vehicular traffic
lane on southbound Carlsbad Boulevard
o Siryce Carf sbad Boulevard is already one lane southbound at Tierra Del Oro Street
(350 feet north of Cannon Road), the Project is proposing to extend the
transition from two f anes to one lane approximately 1,500 feet further north to
the warm water jetties area
o Traffic analysis indicates that repurposing the second vehicle lane wlil not
contribute to traffic congestion in the area
Additional Parking
Parallel Street Parking-Carlsbad Boulevard (north of Cannon Road)
• On the east side of Carlsbad Boulevard, north of Cannon Road, the Project proposes to
add approximately 50 new parallel on-street parking spaces where none exist today:
o The existing sidewalk and buffered bike lane will remain on the east side of
Carlsbad Boulevard
July 17, 2018 Item #7 Page 3 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 21 of 43
o These improvements can be constructed without widening the roadway or
impacting the coastal bluff property by repurposing the second vehicular traffic
lane on northbound Carlsbad Boulevard
o Since Carlsbad Boulevard is already one lane northbound through the Terra mar
neighborhood and the Cannon Ro~d Intersection, staff is proposing to extend the
transition from one lane to two lanes approximately 1,500 feet further north to
the warm water jetties area
o Traffi.c anal ysls indicates that the extension of the single vehicle lane will not
contribute to traffic congestion in the area
• Additionally, a small, 14~space parking lot will be created on the east side of carlsbad
Boulevard just north of a secondary entrance to the existing Endna Power Station.
o The land for the 14-space parking lot will be acquired from NRG as part of the
agreements for the Poseldion Desalination Plant and the new power plant now
under construction
o Two new, high-visibility crosswalks utilizing rapid flashing beacon lights will be
constructed adjacent to the parking lot and at the north end of the Project to
give pedestrians safe and convenient access to the coastal bluff area from the
proposed new on-street parking spaces and parking lot
Parallel Street Parking-Carlsbad Boulevard (between Cannon Road and Cerezo Drive)
• In the Terramar nelghborhood1 between Cannon Road and Cerezo Drive, the current
roadway configuration in dudes 800 feet of two~way left turn lane with no formal on-
street parking.
• Both Project aftematives propose removing the 800-foot two-way left tum lane and
using the space to provide on-street parking, wide sidewalks, and a landscaped area
between the curb and the sidewalk;
o This area of the Project has the capacity to add 25 on•street parking spaces with
the traffic signal alternative and 29 parking spaces with the roundabout
alternative by removing the two-way left turn tane
o Currently, in the portion of Carlsbad Boulevard between Cannon Road and
Cerezo Drive, 23 residences are able to utilize the existing twrHvay left tum lane.
In both Project alternatives, even wlthout the twcMivay left turn lane, residents
can turn left into their driveways across a double yellow center line. In the final
design process, driveway access for each property wm be determined in
consultation with the property owner
o The two-way left tum lane becomes unnecessary in the roundabout alternative
because drivers wanting to tum left into their driveways across oncoming traffic
could instead proceed to the nearest roundabout (Cannon Road or Cerezo Drive)
and safely reverse direction on Carlsbad Boulevard to make a rlght-hand tum
into their driveways
• The Po Ike and fire Departments have been directly consulted regarding the two
proposed roadway alternatives, particularly the repurposing of 800 feet oftwo-way left
tum lane for on-street parking and other improvements. No negative impacts to safety
July 17, 2018 Item #7 Page 4 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 22 of 43
services are anticipated as a result of this Project, and both the Police and Fire
Departments support the designs.
Parallel Street Parking-Cannon Road
• Both Project alternatives propose adding new on~street parallel parking on both sides of
Cannon Road between Carlsbad Boulevard and the railroad right of way. This is
accomplished by extending the e:xtsting single lane configuration further to the east and
repurposing the paved right-of-way for additional parklng1 raised medians, and
enhanced landscaping. On eastbound Cannon Road, the existing single~lane
configuration would be extended approximately 450 feet to the east. On westbound
Cannon Road, the lane re purposing would extend approximately 950 feet to the east:
o The roundabout alternative would add approximately 30 new on-street parking
spaces on Cannon Road.
o The signal alternative would add approximately 40 new on-street parking spaces
on Carmon Road.
• In order to accommodate the antidpated increase in pedestrian activity due to the
additional parking provided along Cannon Road, a high vislbllity crosswalk with rapid
flashing beacon lights ls proposed at El Arbol Drive in both alternatives. There will also
be a high visibility crosswalk at the Carlsbad Boulevard intesection in both alternatives.
In the signal alternative, there is an opportunity for another high visibility crosswalk at
Los Robles Drive as well.
Reverse Angle Parking-Carlsbad Boulevard (south of Cerezo Drive)
• At the south end of the Project area, Just south of Cerezo Drive, reverse diagonal parking
is being proposed on the west side of Carlsbad Boulevard.
• Reverse diagonal parking has a number of safety and operational benefits over
traditional "nose-ln" angle parking and parallel parking:
o Provides motorists with better visibility of bkydrsts, pedestrians, and other
vehicles as they exit a parking space facing forward.
o Eliminates the rlsk of a bicyclist being "doored" when cycling next to a parallel
parked car.
o Positions the trunk of the vehicle in the ''unloading zone" instead of the
roadway, making it easier and safer to unload the back of the vehicle.
o Aligns vehicle doors away from traffic and towards the sidewalk, increasing
safety for children entering and exiting the vehicle.
o Increases parking capacity {10~12 more spaces) over parallel parking.
How Roundabout and Traffic Signal Alternatives Differ
Exhibit 3 is a table comparing the two roadway alternatives. As discussed in previous sections,
both alternatives have many features in c,ommon and both aftematlves meet the Project's
goals, however there are some differences between them as outlined in the following areas.
July 17, 2018 Item #7 Page 5 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 23 of 43
Traffic
• Multiple traffic studies have been completed for both alternatives:
o Multi~Modal level of Service
o Signalized Intersections Analysis with Synchro software
o Roundabout Intersections Analysis with Sidra software
o Roundabout Intersections Analysis with Rodel software
o Cut-Through Traffic Evaluation
o Intersection Control Evaluation
• Multi~Modal Level of Service analysis shows that both Project alternatives provide a
number of multi~modal benefits over existing conditions. The roundabout alternative
provides better service for bicydes and pedestrians than the signal alternative.
• Intersection Control Evaluation {ICE} show'S the roundabout alternative ls the
recommended alternative atthe Carlsbad Boulevard/Cannon Road intersection.
• At the Carlsbad Boulevard/Cerezo Drrve intersection, the ICE report shows the two
alternatives are equal, however, due to the safety and mobility benefits of the
roundabout, the ICE report recommends the roundabout alternative at this intersection.
• Average delay times through both intersections on Carlsbad Boulevard through the
Project area during the PM peak hour have been estimated for both alternatives:
Safety
o For current traffic vohimes, the average delay southbound through both Cannon
Road and Cerezo Drive lntersections is estimated to be the same for both
artematives
o In the northbound direction, the average delay time through both Intersections
is longer for the signal alternative than the roundabout alternative with current
traffic volumes
o When analyzed with 2035 projected traffic v,of umes, the southbound average
delay tlme through both intersections is projected to be the same for both
alternatives
o In the northbound direction, the average delay time through both intersections
is longer for the signal alternative than the roundabout alternative when
anafyzed with 2035 projected traffic volumes
Studies have shown that roundabouts are much safer than signalized intersections for a
number of reasons:
• Roundabouts reduce the number of confli.ct points for an modes of transportation.
Conflict points are places where vehicle, bicycle, or pedestrian paths through an
intersection cross, which is a possible location for a collision to occur. Intersections with
fewer conflict points are considered safer.
• Roundabouts reduce the severity of acddents as vehicle speeds through the intersection
are lower than signalized intersections.
• Due to the circular, one~way traffic flow, roundabouts also reduce the severity of
vehicular collisions by greatly reducing the likelyhood of head-on and t-bone collisions.
July 17, 2018 Item #7 Page 6 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 24 of 43
Cut-Through and U-turn Traffic
• The Cut-Through Traffic Evaluation indkatesthat neither Project alternative will cause a
significant increase in cut-through traffic. Both roadway alternatives have been
designed with bulb-out comer features to discourage cut-through and u-turn traffic.
• Terramar residents have expressed concerns about a significant number of northbound
motorists turning east into their nelghborhood at Cereio Drive to make a U-tum at the
intersection of Cerezo Drive and Los Robles Drive, and then exiting the neighborhood via
a southbound left tum at Cerezo Drrve to access the beach area parking on the westside
of Carlsbad Boulevard.
• One of the benefits of roundabouts is that a motorist can safely and legally enter the
roundabout and change direction on Carlsbad Boulevard (northbound to southbound or
vice versa) without entering the residential slde streets in the Terramar neighborhood.
Noise
• Traffic noise prediction modeling was performed for both alternatives at the Cannon
Road and Carlsbad Boulevard intersection.
• Due to reduced stopping, starting, braking" and accelerating, the roundabout alternatlve
was predicted to be quieter than the signal alternative by one to three decibels.
• Similar results can be expected at the Cerezo Drive and Carlsbad Boulevard intersection.
Air Quality
• As part of the ICE analysis, a preliminary air pollutant emissions life-cycle cost analysis
shows that the total cost of vehicle emissions over the Project life-cycle is about the
same for both of the roadway alternatives.
• Generally speaking, since roundabouts promote a steady flow of traffic and reduce
vehicle idling, studies have shown that roundabouts decrease fuel consumption and
decrease vehicular emissions. This means less air poHution and fewer greenhouse gases
emitted to the atmosphere.
Parking
• Over the entire Project area, the s1gnal alternative is expected to provide an additional
115 parking .spaces.
• Over the entire Project area; the roundabout alternative is expected to provide an
additional 83 parking spaces.
Public Engagement Process
Given the important role the coast plays in the lives of Carlsbad residents, dty staff
implemented a public engagement process that enabled significant input into the design ofthis
Project. Staff utilized a variety of methods to get input from those pote:ntially interested in and
affected by this Project, which include: property owners and residents in the area; those who
visit the area for walking, jogging, biking, surfing and enjoying the scenery; and people who
drtve through the area. The public outreach process included four significant phases of
community engagement;
July 17, 2018 Item #7 Page 7 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 25 of 43
1. Project Scoping (July/August 2015)
The city invited input from the community on the Proj.ect's goals and scope. This phase
focused on stakeholder values, concerns and priorities.
o Postcard mailer to 319 residents in the Project area; fliers in libraries and other city
buildings
o Posts to city socia.l media and website
o Email notifications
o Article in citywide newsletter
o Media coverage
o One. workshop on July 29, 2015 (62 attendees, 53 comments)
o Online survey open to the entire community (944 comments)
o Three onsite pop-up publlc outreach events on bluff top on Aug. 6, 2015 and Aug
8, 2015 (73 contacts)
o Site meetings with owners of neighboring properties
o More than 1,000 comments received
2. Initial Concepts (No\fember/December 2015)
Based on community input, the city prepared several conceptual designs, three for the
roadway and three for the bluff top area, and invited feedback.
o Postcard mailer to 325 residents ln Project area; fliers in libraries and other city
buildings
o Posts to city social media and website
o £mail notifications
o Artide in citywide newsletter
o Media coverage
o Nov, 19, 2015 workshop (55 attendees; 52 comments)
o Online survey (619 comments)
o Site meetings with owners of neighboring properties
o Nearly 700 comments received
3. Current Concepts (November 2017}
City staff refined the conceptual designs based on community input and presented the
current bluff top concept and two roadway alternatives for public input
o Postcard mailer to 333 residents in Project area; fliers ln libraries and other city
buildings
o Posts to city social media and website
o Email notifications
o Artlde in citywide newsletter
o Media coverage
o Nov. 8, 20171 workshop (90 attendees; 21 comments)
o On site pop-up public outreach events on the bluff top, Nov. 9, 2017and Nov. 12,
2017 (35 contacts)
o Site meetings with owners of neighboring properties and agencies
July 17, 2018 Item #7 Page 8 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 26 of 43
o Approximately 100 comments received
4. Commissions and Committees (December 2017-April 2018)
City staff has shared the current Project deslgns and made presentations to the
following stakeholders: and commissions in the pa,st six months:
o California State Parks
o Beach Preservation Committee
o California Coastal Commission
o Parks and Recreation Commission
o Traffic Safety Commission
Staff carefully considered the perspectives of all those who provided input and attempted to
balance the needs and priorities of those living in the area with the community at large.
Public l'nput Retelved
Project Scoping
Public Input during the initial phase of the process emphasized the following:
Roadway improvements
• Safety first
• Protect neighborhood quallty of life
• fmprove traffic flow
• Balance cars, bikes and pedestrians
Bluff improvements
• Keep the natural look and feel
• Not too much activity
• Like it the way it ls
• Refine pathways making it easier to get down to the beach and protecting bluff from
erosion
Initial Concepts
Based on the conceptual designs, the public provided the following input, which resulted in
changes to what was being proposed:
July 17, 2018 Item #7 Page 9 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 27 of 43
Bluff lmprovem~rits
Feedback Received Changes Made to Designs
Keep the natural look and feel Made overall design more natural, with minimal
lighting, native landscaping and natural paths
Not too much activity Included smafl seating areas desfgned for short visits
(backless benches)
----.. ------'"·""··
like it the way it is : Removed proposed shade structures and trees on
1 bluff from the designs
·~· Protect the bluff Proposed two defined paths to the beach while
protectlng the bluff from damage and erosion
.· Street Improvements.·
Feedback Received Changes Made to Designs
Safety first Included new crosswalks on Carlsbad Boulevard and
· Cannon Road with rapid flashing beacon lights
Protect neighborhood quality Removed "gateway" signage from des1gns1
of life included street design features at all neighborhood
entrances to discourage cut through traffic ·~
Improve traffic flow Added on-street parking spaces outside the
neighborhood at the north and south ends of
Carlsbad Boulevard and along Cannon Road
Removed bus stop at Cerezo Drive and improved bus
stops near Cannon Park
Balance cars, bikes and Space for safe walking. Jogging and bicyding on both
pedestrians sides of Carlsbad Boulevard and Cannon Road, while
ensuring safe and consistent flow of veryi1;le traffic
Current Design Alternatives
Based on public input and technical analysis, the current designs include one concept for
the coastal bluff top and two alternatives for the roadway, These are included ,Is Exhibit 2.
Feedback received on these designs focused mostly on the roadway improvements and
whether roundabouts or traffic signals should be considered at the intersections of Cannon
Road & Carlsbad Boulevard and Cerezo Drive & Carlsbad Boulevard. There were also
comments about removing the center turn lane, reverse angle parking and keeping the
coastal bluff improvements simple and natural.
Prior City Council Action
The City Council has discussed and/or provided staff direction on the Project at the following
meetings:
July 17, 2018 Item #7 Page 10 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 28 of 43
• Oct. 15, 2013: City Council directed staff to pursue livable streets improvements on
Carlsbad Boulevard and expanded the area in which improvement projects should be
initiated to include the area from the north city l'imit to the south city limit. ln addition,
City Council directed staff to pursue an expanded partnership with California State Parks
to enhance the beach experience.
• March 2015: Carlsbad Boulevard Improvements Status Report provided to the City
Council by staff.
• Feb. 16, 2016: City Council Goal Workshop, including discussion of goal to enhance the
cartsbad coastline.
• March 15, 2016:. Carlsbad Boulevard Improvements Status Report provided to the City
Council by staff.
• April 19., 2016: Approve Resolution No. 2016-072 for 2016 City Council goals.
• Jul.y 19, 2016: Status Report on 2016 City Council goals provided to the City Council by
staff.
• Feb. 21., 2017: City Council Goal Workshop, including discussion of goals to enhance the
Carlsbad coastline.
• March 18, 2017: City Council Goal Workshop, induding discussion of goal to enhance
the Carlsbad coastline.
• March 28, 2017: Approve Resolution No. 2017-053 for 2017 City Council Goals.
• Aug. 151 2017: Status Report on 2017 City Council Goals provided to the City Council by
staff.
• Feb. 27, 2018: Status Report on 2917 City Coundl Goals provided to the Clty Council by
staff.
• March 20, 2018: City Council Goal workshop1. including discussion of goal to enhance the
Carlsbad coastline.
• April 17, 2018: Approve Resolution No. 2018~052 for 2018 City Council Goals.
City Council Actions Needed
This Project will require the following actions by City Council in order to complete the Project:
• Decision from the City Council on the preferred roadway alternative.
• Award professional services agreement to engineering consultant for final deslgn and
preparation of construction documents.
• Authorfiation to request public bids for construction of the Project
• Award construction contract
Consistency with General Plan
Both Project alternatives are consistent with the city's General Plan (see Exhibit 4).
Compliance with Climate Action Plan (CAP}
Both Project alternatives will encourage biking and walking as an alternative to vehicular
tr.:nisportation" which wm reduce greenhouse gases. The roundabout alternative will further
reduce greenhouse gases when compared to the signal alternative by decreasing fuel
consumption and vehicular emissions.
July 17, 2018 Item #7 Page 11 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 29 of 43
fiscal Analysis
Preliminary cost estimates have been developed for both Project alternatives. The estimates
include design, engineering, technical studies, envfronmenta.J review,. administration,
construction and inspection. The total Project cost for the signal alternative is estimated to be
$8 million, and the total Project cost for the roundabout alternative is estimated to be $7.7
million. The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) appropriation for this project to date is $5.65
million. The current appropriations indude a mix of Traffic Impact Fees, Trans Net Local funds,
and General Capital Construction funds.
Utilities staff has recommended replacing the water main in the project area as part of the
Terramar Area Coastal Improvement Program. The estimated cost to design and construct a.
new water main is $1.93 million, which has already been appropriated in the CIP, Terramar
Waterline Replacement, Project No. 5048.
Ne>tt Steps
City staff will return to the City Coundf in the near future to request direction on a preferred
Project alternative, After the preferred alternative is selected by City Council, the Project team
will move forward with environmental review, permitting, final engineering, and construction.
Below is an estimated timeline;
July-Sept. 2018 City staff presents Project alternatives to City Council fur
selection of the p, ... ;"'., ~;:: 1dway alternative.
Jan. -March 2019 City staff completes CEOA Environmental Review
documentation and processes a Coastal Development
Permit for a Public Hearing at the Planning Commission.
Oct. -Dec. 2019 Callfornia Coastal Commission reviews and approves
Coastal Development Permit.
Jan. -March 2020 City Council authorizes bjdding for construction.
April -June 2020 City Council authorizes award of construction contract.
Sept -Oct. 2020 Project~onstrncti911begi~~~-~~ . '"-•"'
Environmental Evaluation (CEQA)
Pursuant to PubJic Resources Code Section 21065, receiving a project update does not
constitute a "project11 within the meaning ofthe California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in
that it has no potential to cause either a direct: physical change in the environment, or a
reasonably foreseeable indirect change in the environment, and therefore does not require
environmental review. As the Project design is finalized, the Project will be subject to
environmental review per CEQA Guidelines.
July 17, 2018 Item #7 Page 12 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 30 of 43
Public Notification
This item was noticed in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act and was available for pub!k
viewing and review at least 72 hours prior to the scheduled meeting date. Significant addftlonal
public notification and invofvement is described in previous sections of this Staff Report.
Exhlbits
1. Project Area Map
2. Site Plans and Renderings for Design Alternatives
3. Alternative Comparison
4. Consistency with General Plan
July 17, 2018 Item #7 Page 13 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 31 of 43
(cityof
Carlsbad July 17, 2018
Exhibit 1 Terramar Area
Coastal Improvement Proiect
Item #7 Page f!i. of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 32 of 43
Carlsbad Boulevard
Near Manzan,o Drive
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July 17, 2018
l<U1dl"'i11t<1n<t
TERRAMAR AREA ,(,OASTAl. tMPROVE:ME NT PROJECT
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Item #7
(city of
Carlsbad
Page 19 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 37 of 43
Cannon Road Traffic Signal
July 17, 2018
-.,,nd><"flfn11Min!J
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TERRAMAR AREA COASTAL IMP80VEMENT PROJEC T
Wc-r l!<ltrano:M i.ito Butf«Nli l'mdn~ !lole p&tu, lo ~top
,iol',ll-Jiorlloui.'> L-.b la,,.. , In the """''".:llk
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(city of
Carlsbad
Item #7 Page 21 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 39 of 43
Exhibit3
ALTERNATIVE COMPARISON TABlE
Signal' Alternative i ,Roundabout Alternative
Features to diiscourage cut-through
' Good l Better traffic ln neighborhoods
. Consistent with tommunity values,
I:
' Good Better
I
I
project goals, and General Plan
Parking Adds 115 parking spots Adds 83 parking spot s.
Noise1 No chc:rngei ' Quieter {by 1-3 decibels.)<
l;.st1mated average delay through
both itltersections going south 15 secondsl 16 seCO(ldS3
(2016)
Estimated average delay through
both intersections going north 75 seconds2 32 seconds:,
(2016)
. Estimated average delay through
both intersections going south 20 seconds1 20 seconds3
{2035) -
Estimated average delay through
bot h intersections go ing north .ss seco nds2 72 seconds3
(20:35)
--
Safety for bikes arid pedestrlans4 Safer than current conditions Much Safer than Signal
Alternative~
-· --------.. -
Vehicular Safety4 No cha nge Much Safer than Signal
Alternat ive·'
Arr Quality/GHG5 No change lower emissions5
Estimated Total Project Cost
I
$8.0M i $7.7M
l Traffic Mise prediction modeling was conducted using Federal Highway Adminlstration Traffic Noi5e Model
Version 25 (TNM), auhe Cannon, Road in,tersection.
2 A\i~r.ige delay through both intersectfons (Cannoo Rd and Cerezo Ori wai, estimat~d using the Synchro traffic
model for the-sign.ii. alte rnattve u:slog 2016 and 2035 PM peak-hour ttai'flc volumes.
3 Average delay through both intersecti,ons (Cannon Rd and Cerezo Dr) was estimate,d us.frig the Rodel traffic
model for the roundabout alternative using 2016 and 203S PM peak-hour traffic volumes,
4 Sy ,eduting the number and severity of .confii.ct points and lowi;ring vehicle speeds t hrough the intersect ion.
mun.dabouts are significantly safer [USDOT, Federal Hit:hway Administration website:
iU:tps://safety.fhwa.dotgov/inte _ec trcm/innovative/roundabouts/ See a1s.o: r'ersand, B.N. @t al. (20011 Safoty
effect of rou.ndabout conversions in the United States., Transportation Research R.e•cord,1
S By reducing vehicle rdling, rouodab.outssignifrC<intly decr~ase fuel consumption and emis.sicms based on
anarysis co.nc:lucte:d by San Diego County Air Pollution Control District [Siwa-S~nd, Nikn ini (2009) Reducing
Greenhouse Gasesff'Om On-Road Transportation fn Scm Diego County. Energy Policy tnit1atives Center, USD, See
.:ifso: USEPA, Aver,oge Ann.val £missions ond Fuel Consumption for Gosol.ine-Fueled Passenger Cars and Light
Trucks (2008).]
July 17, 2018 Item #7 Page 24 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 42 of 43
Exhibit 4
CONSISTENCY WITH GENERAL PLAN
ELEMENT STANDARD BOTH PROJECT ALTERNATIVES
Land Use and Plan and design Carlsbad Blvd and adjacent
Community public land according to the following
Design guiding principles (Policy 2~P.53):
a. Carlsbad Blvd shall become more a. Project maintains a natural
than a road. This tramsportation aesthetfc, increases parking
corridor shall provide for and access to the beach, and
recreational, aesthetk, and provides small gathering
comrm.mity gathering opportunities spaces on the bluff area
that equal the remarkable character across from the power plant.
of the land.
b. Community safety shall be a high b. Project provides dedicated
priority. Create destination that pedestrian sidewalks, bike
provfdes s.afe public envrronment to lanes, and Intersection
recreate. improvements to enhance
safety. Roundabout wm slow
traffic and reduce number
and severity of accidents.
h. Environmentally sensitive design is h. Project provides [and:scaping
a key objectJve. EnvironmentaUy with drought-tole,ant, native
sensitive development that respects plants and t!'ees. Roundabout
existing coastal resources i.s of utmost will reduce noise and reduce
importance. emissions of greenhouse gases
and pollutants. Project provides
fewer dedicated paths down to
the btath to reduce bluff
erosion.
Mobility Consfder innovative desfgn and program Roundabout, curb buib-outs,
solutions to improve the mobility, efficiency, separate bicycle lanes, buffered bike
connettiv.ity, and safety of the lanes, pedestrian paths, high
t ranspo rtatio n system (Po !icy 3-P .17}. visibility pedestrian crosswalks,
rnpid flashing beacon lights for
pedestrian crossings.
Mobility Provide inviting streetscapes that encourage The project is a complete street wfth
walking and promote livable streets (Goal 3· pedestrian and bicycle fadliti.es on
G.3). both sides of the road. Strnetscape
will have landscaping and amenities
such as blke racks, recycle blns, and
drtnking fountains.
July 17, 2018 Item #7 Page 25 of 25 November 27, 2018 Item #12 Page 43 of 43
All Receive -A1enda Item # lb
For the Information of the:
CITY COUNCIL Morgen Fry '"( ,' ce 11cc ✓
Subject:
. Date 11 11,hcM V COO J
FW: Roundabouts -Terramar Coastal Improvement project
From: Marschall, Matt@ CBRE San Diego Capital Markets [
Sent: Sunday, November 25, 2018 9:29 AM
To: Matthew Hall <Matt.Hall@carlsbadca.gov>; keith.blackburn@carsbadca.gov; michael.schumacker@carlsbadca.gov;
Council Internet Email <CityCouncil@carlsbadca.gov>
Cc: Marschall, Matt@ CBRE San Diego Capital Markets
Subject: RE: Roundabouts -Terramar Coastal Improvement project
Dear Mayor and Councilmembers:
My Wife and I are owners and year round residents at Carlsbad Boulevard, Carlsbad, CA 92008.
It is my understanding that the Terra mar Roundabout and Coastal Improvement project may be up for vote this Tuesday
evening. I have attached below some more technical comments with regards to the Terra mar Coastal Improvement
Project provided by Bob Johnson that I will not reiterate here.
More importantly are some factual and empirical observations from living on the boulevard, and out Major Concern
with the proposed Roundabout Solution. Though we are very much in favor of traffic control, beautification and
providing access to our beautiful beaches for both visitors and residents, the 11roundabouts" are not the solution. Please
consider the following: ·
• Without a traffic 11stop", it will be extremely difficult to exit our driveways during times of even mod'erate
traffic. It is difficult enough now as many times we need to wait for the traffic light to change before we can
safely exit our driveways or for pedestrians to 11try" to stop traffic as they cross the boulevard.
• Compounding the issue is the ever increasing bicycle traffic along the boulevard. When we pull down our
driveways to gain sight access to the street, we many times must block the bike lane. Without a break in the
traffic, that lane will continue to be blocked until we can enter into traffic. This forces bicyclists to swerve into
traffic lanes, a very dangerous situation that cannot be avoided.
• Speeding, particularly by motorcycles will only increase as those exit the roundabouts as opposed to being at a
full stop at traffic lights. We have already had three fatalities within the past two years along the boulevard in
our neighborhood. Be on notice and be prepared to add more injuries and fatalities to the list.
• The removal of the center turn land will make ingress and egress to our driveways even more difficult and
dangerous including emergency vehicle access.
• We must have controlled and lighted crosswalks. I can attest that my family and I have had several very close
calls as there is a blatant disregard to pedestrians in the crosswalks along this stretch.
All of the residents love the neighborhood, our City and leadership; however, let's not make foolish and dangerous
decisions based upon aesthetics alone. We welcome a good solution an beautification of our Boulevard; however,
public safety is seriously compromised with the current plan.
Sincerely yours,
D. Matt Marschall, MAI, ARA, FRIGS I Senior Vice President
National Valuation Practice Leader
Agribusiness, Land & Natural Resources
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away that traffic break; just one of the "thorns" we are forced to grab with the addition
of the "aesthetically pleasing roundabout".
We can already see the effects of adding roundabouts by looking at existing
roundabouts during heavy traffic. Some roundabouts of a lesser use have already been
removed in the City. The general confusion and attempts to avoid the roundabouts are
obvious and will be felt by the addition of traffic on El Arbol and Los Robles.
Another "thorn" that will come with the "aesthetically pleasing roundabout" has to do
with the loss of the "safety" lane. I may be mistaken, but the roundabout on Carlsbad
Blvd. appears to do away with the Emergency (tum) lane in the middle of CB.
Last week, the need for the "safety lane" on CB was unfortunately demonstrated once
again. A very serious accident on CB north of Cannon "rolled" a lot of first
responders to the scene. The Boulevard was blocked and the first responders made
good use of the "safety lane", demonstrating its necessity. First responders do not need
to be hampered in emergency situations. Doing away with this "safe island" is an
unintended "thorn" that will hurt no less because it is unintended.
As a Civil Engineer I have noticed many more attempts to incorporate roundabouts
into project planning apparently in great part for aesthetic reasons. In my opinion,
especially in this situation, the roundabout proponents seems to weigh in heavily on
the side of aesthetics without consideration of the long term effects of the "hidden
thorns".
Once again, we respectfully request that the roundabout option be eliminated from
consideration and the order inherent in the signal option be the option of choice.
There will always be traffic on CB and the volume will surely increase as Carlsbad
more and more becomes a "destination of choice". Roundabouts can do nothing to
stop the increase in traffic that is inevitable. Aesthetics are not the
solution. Remember the "thorns" as you look at the "Rose" that has been presented to
you; the roundabout option.
Sincerely,
Robert Johnson, P.E., Colleen Johnson
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Morgen Fry
Subject: FW: Terramar Project Comments
From: Mel N [
Sent: Monday, November 26, 2018 12:31 PM
To: Council Internet Email <CityCouncil@carlsbadca.gov>
Subject: Terra mar Project Comments
Good afternoon,
All Receive -Agenda Item # J::-
For the Information of the:
CITY COUNCIL
A~~~CA ~~C ✓
Date ~ICM L COO i/
I have been following with interest the Terramar Project and attended the presentations to learn more about the
options offered. It was a thorough process.
I would like to state my support for the roundabout option at Cannon. In my personal experience, in the city of Carlsbad
and abroad, roundabouts are underused as safer, more efficient options at crossings. What I have observed and
experienced as a driver at the north end of the city is that people are more aware of the crossing, slow down before
entering the intersection and only stop when necessary. The flow is smooth. It invites more people to walk as cars can't
speed as much. Visually, it is more attractive as well and it gives the city the opportunity to install art or other visually
appealing element.
Also, it is a simple way to create a return for drivers. Right now, people make dangerous turns in the power plan access
lot or by making dangerous left turns into the residential streets to turn around.
Traffic signals have many disadvantages over roundabouts, including being more dangerous to pedestrians as people
don't look before turning right, even in red lights. The stop and go traffic also creates more pollution and noise. People
go faster, trying to beat the yellow light.
I'm glad roundabouts are being built in the community. People do need some time to get used to them. Nationwide,
their use is increasing because of their quantifiable benefits. Please consider existing research and facts. Many people
"dislike" roundabouts but their dislike is based on lack of familiarity with them, not objective reasons.
Thank you in advance for your hard work.
Melba Novoa
Carlsbad resident
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Morgen Fry
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Carl Pop~
Tuesday, November 27, 2018 12:05 PM
Council Internet Email
Manager Internet Email
All Receive• Agenda Item # f ~
For the Information of the:
CITY COUNCIL J
&~fA ✓cc v .
18 CM J COO _i2.
Comment on 11/27/18 Council Agenda Item #12 -Terramar Area Coastal Improvement
Project, (CIP) Project No. 6054
Please accept this as my public comment on Item #12 of the 11/27/18 Council Agenda. I strongly agree with
the staff recommendation to approve "Alternative #2" which includes roundabouts at both intersections. I
concur with staff's rationale and reasons for their recommendation. As a 35 year resident of Carlsbad and a
daily user of the beach area, I believe the recommended alternative will provide the best balance of general
public and local community needs'. Thank you, Carl Pope .
If there is any magic on this earth, it is contained in water. Do your part to conserve and keep it
clean .
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