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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Agenda Statement (3)Final Mitigated Negative Declaration for the National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS Prepared for the: CALIFORNIA NATIONAL airy INCORPORATED - J1 City of National City 1243 National City Boulevard National City, CA 91950 November 2010 Prepared by: • B B BRG Consulting, Inc. 304 Ivy Street San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 298-7127 Project Title: Applicant: Project Location: CALIFORNIA *� NATIONAL CITy � ICAV ' \ INCORPORATED FINAL MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS (Previously Case No. SP-2005-3) City of National City 1243 National City Blvd. National City, CA 91950 Raymond Pe, AICP, Principal Planner Advance Planning Division (619) 336-4421 A 3.69-acre area, including 13-parcels totaling 1.95 acres, situated south of Civic Center Drive, north of 16th Street, east of Roosevelt Avenue, and west of National City Blvd., within the City of National City. Project Description: See Attachment A of the Initial Study Determination: The City of National City conducted an Initial Study for the National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS (Previously Case No. SP-2005-3), and determined that the proposed project would not result in a significant effect on the environment and the preparation of an Environmental Impact Report is not required. Documentation: The attached Initial Study documents the evidence to support the above determination. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program: The following recommended mitigation measures will reduce potential impacts associated with the implementation of the proposed project, to below a level of significance: Air Quality Mitigation Measure AQ-1: Short -Term Construction If air quality impacts associated with construction of an approved project within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area exceed the significance thresholds, mitigation measures identified below should be implemented as feasible to reduce emissions of the project. Mitigation measures from the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) are presented below and are recommended for projects in the San Diego Air Basin, where applicable. The following measures are recommended to reduce pollutant emissions from construction activities. The construction operators shall implement these measures: • Use water trucks to keep all areas where vehicles move damp enough to prevent dust raised when traveling on the site; • Wet down the site in the late morning and after work is completed for the day; • After construction, wet inactive areas down to reduce windblown dust; • Employ street sweeping, should silt be carried over to adjacent public roadways; • Wash off trucks leaving the site; • Reestablish ground cover on the construction site through seeding and watering on portions of the site that will not be disturbed for lengthy periods (such as two months or more); • Maintain construction equipment engines by keeping them tuned; and, • Reduce traffic speeds on all unpaved road surfaces to 15 miles per hour or less. Mitigation Measure AQ-2: Long-term The most significant reductions in regional and local air pollutant emissions are attainable through programs, which reduce the vehicular travel associated with the project. Support and compliance with the Regional Air Quality Strategy (RAQS) for the basin is the most important measure to achieve this goal. The RAQS includes improvement of mass transit facilities and implementation of vehicular usage reduction programs. Additionally, energy conservation measures are included. None of these recommended mitigation measures are strictly required. However, all relevant measures should be applied to the greatest extent possible. Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Measures: • Schedule truck deliveries and pickups for commercial uses during off-peak hours when feasible. This will alleviate traffic congestion; therefore, emissions during the peak hour. • Provide adequate ingress and egress at all entrances to public facilities to minimize vehicle idling at curbsides. Presumably, this measure would improve traffic flow into and out of the parking lot. The air quality benefits are incalculable because more specific data is required. • Provide on -site services. Provide incentives such as on -site ATMs and other similar measures that address lifestyle needs. These measures reduce Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT), but the air quality benefit cannot be quantified because more specific data is required. Energy Efficient Measures and Additional Measures: • Compliance with Title 24, Part 6, California's Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings. All buildings must comply with Title 24, Part 6. Reducing the need to heat or cool structures by improving thermal integrity will result in a reduced expenditure of energy and a reduction in pollutant emissions. • Develop operational emissions mitigation plan. Prior to approval of each building permit for a commercial or office use, the applicant shall submit to the City for approval, an operational emissions mitigation plan. The plan shall identify implementation procedures for each of the following emissions reduction measures. If certain measures are determined infeasible, an explanation thereof shall be provided in the operational emissions mitigation plan. - Utilize built-in energy -efficient appliances to reduce energy consumption and emissions. - Utilize energy -efficient and automated controls for air conditioners and lighting to reduce electricity consumption and associated emissions. • Coordinate with Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) regarding the location of bus turnouts and buses routed within the project area. Cultural Resources Mitigation Measure CR-1 : Prior to future project approval and issuance of any construction permit within the project site, including but not limited to a demolition or building permit, the applicant shall conduct an evaluation of the five onsite buildings identified as potentially eligible historical structures in the Cultural and Historical Resources Survey prepared by ASM Affiliates, Inc. dated April 2, 2009. The evaluation shall determine if these buildings are eligible for inclusion in the state or local historical registers. The evaluation shall be performed by a historian or architectural historian who meets the Secretary of Interior's Professional Qualification Standards for Historic Preservation Professionals. The historian/architectural historian shall consult with knowledgeable local groups (e.g., Save Our Heritage Organization, National City Historical Society, San Diego Historical Society, and others) and individuals, appropriate archives, and appropriate repositories in an effort to identify the original and subsequent owners as well as the architect and the builder to establish whether any of these individuals played important roles in local or regional history (criterion B). Additionally the physical characteristics and condition of the building or structure shall be evaluated under criterion (C), and those judged to possess "the distinctive characteristic of a type, period, region, or method of construction" shall be further assessed for integrity and context. The results of the archival research and field assessment shall be documented in an evaluation report. This report will explicitly state whether the resource is eligible for either state or local historical registers and shall also make specific recommendations as appropriate. The historian/architectural historian shall complete the necessary California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) site forms (minimally Primary Record and Building/Structure/Object record; others as required) and include as an attachment to the report. Copies of the DPR site forms shall be submitted to the California Historical Resource Information System via the SCIC, an auxiliary of San Diego State University. Geology and Soils Mitigation Measure GS-1 : A geotechnical investigation shall be approved by the City prior to the issuance of a grading permit for any development project that requires grading. The geotechnical investigation shall include fieldwork (e.g., subsurface exploration, sampling) and laboratory analysis as directed by the City to determine the exact location and extent of potential geologic/seismic hazards. All applicable remedial grading measures and seismic design parameters recommended by the geotechnical engineer shall be incorporated into the project and shown on the final grading plans and/or incorporated into contractor specifications prior to award of construction contracts, to the satisfaction of the City. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Mitigation Measure GHG-1 : Consistent with the intent of AB32, the proposed project shall demonstrate that it has measures in place that would assist in providing statewide reduction of CO2 as compared to 'business as usual.' The following greenhouse gas offset measures have been shown to be effective by CARB and shall be implemented wherever possible: Diesel Equipment (Compression Ignition) Offset Strategies (40% to 60% Reduction) • Use electricity from power poles rather than temporary diesel power generators. • Construction equipment operating onsite should be equipped with two to four degree engine timing retard or precombustion chamber engines. • Construction equipment used for the project should utilize EPA Tier 2 or better technology. Vehicular Trip (Spark Ignition) Offset Strategies (30% to 70% Reduction) • Encourage commute alternatives by informing construction employees and customers about transportation options for reaching your location (i.e., post transit schedules/routes). • Help construction employees rideshare by posting commuter ride sign-up sheets, employee home zip code map, etc. • When possible, arrange for a single construction vendor who makes deliveries for several items. • Purchase Carbon Offsets to compensate for miles traveled by construction vehicles. • Plan construction delivery routed to eliminate unnecessary trips. • Keep construction vehicles well maintained to prevent leaks and minimize emissions, and encourage employees to do the same. • Provide car/van pool parking for construction employees. • Sell bus or light rail passes on -site or at a discount to construction employees. On -site Energy Offset Strategies (50% to 70% Reduction) • Complete regularly scheduled maintenance on HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems. • Use an energy management system to control lighting, kitchen exhaust, refrigeration and HVAC. • Install occupancy sensors for lighting in low occupancy areas. • Retrofit incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lights. • Install ultra efficient ballasts to dim lights to take advantage of daylight. • Insulate all major hot water pipes. • Insulate refrigeration cold suction lines. • Use weather stripping to close air gaps around doors and windows. • Select electrical equipment with energy saving features (e.g., Energy Star). • Plant native shrubs or trees near windows for shade. • Convert hot water heaters to on -demand systems. • Reduce the number of lamps and increase lighting efficiency by installing optical reflectors or diffusers. • Install ceiling fans in homes where applicable. Hazards and Hazardous Materials Mitigation Measure HM-1: Prior to the development of any property that was formerly occupied by or adjacent to existing facilities that used or stored hazardous materials, a detailed Phase I Environmental Site Assessment shall be approved by the City of National to evaluate the potential for soil and groundwater contamination. If warranted by the Phase I environmental site assessment, soil and possibly groundwater sampling shall be required. Mitigation Measure HM-2: Asbestos, mercury, and a lead -based paint survey of existing buildings shall be conducted prior to any renovation or demolition activities to the satisfaction of the City. Mitigation Measure HM-3: Prior to issuance of a grading permit for any property where the results of the Phase I, Phase II, and/or asbestos, mercury, or lead -based paint evaluation indicates the presence of these materials or the potential for hazardous materials at levels requiring mitigation, all remedial measures identified in the studies shall be shown on the face of the grading plans and/or incorporated into contractor specifications prior to awarding the construction contract or issuance of a demolition permit, whichever is first. All remedial measures required by law shall be implemented and completed prior to the issuance of grading or building permits, whichever is issued first. Noise Mitigation Measure N-1 : To ensure that construction activities comply with the City's Noise Ordinance, a Construction Noise Abatement Plan shall be prepared for each construction project and submitted to the City prior to the issuance of demolition, grading or building permits, whichever is issued first. The Plan shall describe the construction activities, equipment required for those activities, and noise level generation characteristics of the equipment to be used. Noise levels at the closest residential use shall be predicted. If projected noise levels will exceed the Noise Ordinance limits, measures to reduce those levels to comply with the Noise Ordinance shall be described and implemented. Mitigation Measure N-2: The structure compliance of all future development within the Specific Plan Amendment area would be required to demonstrate a closed -window interior noise level of 45 dBA CNEL for all residential sensitive use areas. Office space mitigation would be at the discretion of the City of National City. Given this, a separate architectural acoustical assessment shall be completed for each proposed project within the project site, prior to issuance of any building permits for the residential aspects of any future development projects. Public Services Mitigation Measure PS-1 : Police Protection The Police Department shall review all future development projects for police protection impacts and ensure that additional police personnel and/or equipment are provided to provide acceptable level of police protection services deemed acceptable by the National City Police Department prior to issuance of building permits. Mitigation Measure PS-2: Fire Protection The Fire Department shall review all future development projects for fire protection impacts and ensure that additional fire personnel and/or equipment are provided to provide acceptable level of fire protection services deemed acceptable by the National City Fire Department prior to issuance of building permits. Transportation/Traffic Mitigation Measure T-1: Intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NB on - ramp As part of the Trade Corridor Improvement Fund (TCIF) Port Access Improvements Project for the intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NB on -ramp, Caltrans has prepared a Project Report and traffic analysis which indicates capacity improvements and a new signal for the intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NB on - ramp, to be constructed in the near -term. Utilities and Service Systems Mitigation Measure U-1: Wastewater All development projects within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment area shall be reviewed by the National City Public Works Department to make sure that adequate wastewater facilities will be available to serve the project. If the Public Works Department determines the existing wastewater facilities as not adequate the project developer shall construct the facilities necessary to the satisfaction of the City Engineer prior to issuance of occupancy permits. Mitigation Measure U-2: Water All water utility plans shall be approved by the Sweetwater Authority to ensure that adequate water service is provided to the development. Mitigation Measure U-3: Water The City shall require the incorporation of all state mandated water conservation measures. The City shall also require the additional incorporation, as applicable, of water conservation measures including water efficient dishwashers, water pressure reducing valves, hot water pipe insulation, and hot water on -demand units as applicable. Public Review: The Draft MND, Initial Study, and supporting documents were submitted to federal, state, and local agencies and other entities/organizations for a 30-day public review period (July 28, 2010 to September 2, 2010). The documents were also made available for review at the City of National City, Advance Planning Division and on the City's website, www.nationalcityca.gov. Results of Public Review: () No comments were received during the public input period. () Comments were received but did not address the Draft Mitigated Negative Declaration finding or the accuracy/completeness of the Initial Study. No response is necessary. The letters are attached. (X) Comments addressing the findings of the Draft Mitigated Negative Declaration and/or accuracy or completeness of the Initial Study were received during the public input period. The letters and responses follow. List of Public Agencies that Commented: A draft version of this MND was circulated for public review from July 28, 2010 to September 2, 2010. Six comment letters were received. The letters and response to comments are attached to this document following the MND. One revision was made to the Initial Study/Environmental Checklist as a result of the letters received on the Draft MND. Specifically, Mitigation Measure T-1 was revised in response to the letter received from Caltrans. However, no new significant impacts would result from the proposed project or no new mitigation measures are proposed for implementation different from those discussed in the Draft MND. INDEX OF COMMENT LETTERS Comment Commenter di Letter Date Letter — A Native American Heritage Commission 8/10/10 B San Diego County Archaeological Society, Inc. 8/16/10 C Department of Transportation, District 11 9/1/10 D Public Utilities Commission 9/2/10 E State of California, Governor's Office of Planning and Research, State Clearinghouse and Planning Unit 9/3/10 F Max Friedheim, Pres., PDQ Precisions, Inc. 9/14/10 Raymond Pe, AICP Principal Planner July 28, 2010 Date of Draft Report Date of Final Report Comment Letter A STABS OF CArffONNIA NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE COMMISSION 915 CAPITOL MALL, ROOM 364 SACRAMENTO, CA 96014 (916) 653-0251 Fax (016) 66T-6390 Wob Slto www noOm..9Av e'nndl: do. noho®posbo9.not August 10, 2010 Mr. Raymond Pe, AICP, Principal Planner CITY OF NATONAL CITY 1243 National City Boulevard National City, CA 91950 Sent by FAX to: 619-336-4321 Number of pages: 2 o91$Ghwwoeo Re: Tribal Consultation Per Government Code && 65352.3, 65352.4 and 65560 (SS 18/Sacred Lands File Search) for Project- Specific Plan Amendmept: Case No. 2010-23 SPA. IS (Preeviously Case No. SP-2005-31: located on 3.69-acres including 13 parcels all within the City of Najional Clty: San Diego County California' State Clearinghouse No for the Mitigated Negative Declaration 2010071074 Dear Mr. Pe: Government Code §65352.3 and .5 requires local governments to consult with California Native American tribes identified by the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) for the purpose of protecting, and/or mitigating impacts to cultural places. Attached is a Native American Tribal Consultation list of tribes with traditional lands or cultural places located within the requested plan boundaries As a part of consultation, the NAHC recommends that local governments conduct record searches through the NANG and California Historic Resources Information System (CHRIS) to determine If any cultural places are located within the area(s) affected by the proposed action. A NAHC Sacred Lands File search was conducted based on the project site n information included in your request and No Native American cultural resources were identified within the 'area of potential effect' (APE). This is considered a culturally sensitive area by the NAHC. Local governments should be aware that records maintained by the NAHC are not exhaustive, and a negative response to these searches does not preclude the existence of a cultural place. A tribe may be the only source of information regarding the existence of a cultural place. I suggest you consult with all of those on the accompanying Native American Contacts list, which has been Included separately. If they cannot supply information, they might recommend others with specific knowledge about cultural resources in your plan area. If a response has not been received within two weeks of notification, the Commission requests that you follow-up with a telephone call to ensure that the project Information has been received. If you have a questions, please contact me at (916) 653-6251. Attachment: Native American Tribal Government Contacts Al RESPONSE TO COMMENT LETTER BY DAVE SINGLETON, PROGRAM ANALYST, NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE COMMISSION, DATED AUGUST 10, 2010 (COMMENT LETTER A) Response to Comment Al: The letter recommends a series of actions to determine if any cultural resources may be affected by the proposed project. As discussed in Section V. Cultural Resources of the MND, no cultural resources (e.g., archaeological or human remains) were identified on the project site. The proposed project has the potential to impact historical resources, due to the presence of potentially historically significant resources within the project site; however, with the implementation of Mitigation Measure CR-1, this impact will be reduced to a level less than significant. Furthermore, the City of National City has consulted with the California Native American tribes pursuant to Government Code §§ 65352.3, 65352.4 and 65560 (SB 18/Sacred Lands File Search). Currently, no Tribes have responded. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendmen Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS RTC-1 November 2010 Native American Tribal Consultation List SAN D)EGO COUNTY August 10, 2010 Samna Group of the Capitan Grande Edwin Romero, Chairperson 1095 Barona Road Lakeside , CA 92040 sue@barona-nsn.gov (619) 443-6612 Ewliaapaayp Tribal Office Robert Pinto, Chairperson 4054 Willows Road Alpine , CA 91901 wmicklin @ ieaningrock. net (619) 445-6315 - voice Diegueno Viejas Band of Mission Indians Bobby L. Barrett, Chairperson PO Box 908 Alpine , CA 91903 jrothauff@viejas-nsn.gov (619) 445-3810 Jamul Indian Village Kenneth Meza, Chairperson Diegueno/Kumeyaay P.O. Box 612 Jamul , CA 91935 jamulrez@sctdv.net (619) 669-4785 Comment Letter A (cont'd.) Diegueno/Kumeyaay Diegueno/Kumeyaay La Posta Band of Mission Indians Mesa Grande Band of Mission Indians Gwendolyn Parada, Chairperson Mark Romero, Chairperson PO Box 1120 Diegueno/Kumeyaay P.O Box 270 Boulevard . CA 91905 Santa Ysabel , CA 92070 (619) 478-2113 mesagrandeband@msn.com (760) 782-3818 San Pasqua) Band of Mission Indians Allen E. Lawson, Chairperson PO Box 365 Diegueno Valley Center CA 92082 (760) 749-3200 Santa Ysabel Band of Diegueno Indians Johnny Hernandez, Spokesman PO Box 130 Santa Ysabel , CA 92070 brandietaylor@yahoo.com (760) 765-0845 Diegueno Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation Danny Tucker, Chairperson 5459 Sycuan Road El Cajon CA 92021 ssilva@sycuan-risn.gov 619 445-2613 Diegueno/Kumeyaay Diegueno Kwaaymii Laguna Band of Mission Indians Carmen Lucas P.O. Box 775 Pine Valley , CA 91962 (619) 709.4207 Diegueno - Kwaaymii Inaja Band of Mission Indians Rebecca Osuna, Spokesperson 2005 S. Escondido Blvd. Diegueno Escondido , CA 92025 (760) 737-7628 Thin fiat In current only au of the date of this clocument. oletrlbution of this Hat doom not relieve any person of statutory rsapo,wibiety ae defined in Section 7050.9 of the Health and Safety Code, Section 0097.8a of the Punic Resources Coda and Section 5087.98 of the Public Resources Code. Thin not la applicable only for conauhallon wan Nation Atmnean eibpe under Government Coda Section 653525. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS RTC-2 November 2010 l Comment Letter B 9‘EGa co(, hP j, r 1, 73 14 yeo go l o o l 00- To: San Diego County Archaeological Society, Inc. Environmental Review Committee 16 August 2010 Mr. Raymond Pe, AICP Principal Planner Advance Planning Division City of National City 1243 National City Boulevard National City, California 91950 Subject: Draft Mitigated Negative Declaration National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS Dear Mr. Pe: RECEIVED AUG 162010 Develo Community pment Commission I have reviewed the subject DMND. on behalf of this committee of the San Diego County Archaeological Society. Based on the information contained in the DMND and initial study, and the letter reports from ASM Affiliates, we have the following comments: 1. Regarding the.potential for archaeological resources, the ASM letter of April 2, 2009 concludes that there is little likelihood of encountering substantial historical deposits "given the fact that the houses were first constructed here. after 1910 when sewer and trash collection services were likely provided." When were sewers actually provided in the project area? Additional research may be required to confirm whether or -not there is a potential for privies or other subsurface deposits. Also, if not already done, an inspection of the 1928-29 aerial photographs available at the County offices in Kearny Mesa and the San Diego History Center may be helpful in confirming earlier development in the area, including locations where structures and, therefore, archaeological material may be encountered. 2. Regarding historical structures, the ASM letter of June 7, 2010 addresses the potential impacts of demolition of the existing structures on four parcels. Based on the information provided, we agree that they are not historically significant. 3. DMND mitigation, measure CR-1 calls for, additional analyses of five other structures currently more than 50 years old. While we agree with that requirement for those five structures, consideration will also need to be given to any other structures which reach the age of 45 years at the time a project affecting them is under consideration. P.O. Box 81106 • San Diego, CA 92138-1106 • (858) 538-0935 B1 B2 B3 RESPONSE TO COMMENT LETTER BY JAMES W. ROYLE, JR., CHAIRPERSON, ENVIONRMENTAL REVIEW COMMITTEE, SAN DIEGO COUNTY ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY, INC., DATED AUGUST 16, 2010 (COMMENT LETTER B) Response to Comment 81: ASM did not research sewer hook up dates for the parcels discussed in the April 2, 2009 letter, because they were developed relatively late. ASM's previous experience with projects in the City, is that trash and sewer was provided by 1910. As such, ASM does not expect significant subsurface deposits on the lots due to the relative late date of development on them. In addition, ASM did not research the 1928 aerials because the Sanborn Fire Insurance maps provide more detailed information regarding historic land use over a greater time period. The Sanborn maps for 1907, 1911, 1926 and 1950 were consulted for this project. Response to Comment B2: Comment noted. Response to Comment B3: Comment noted. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS RTC-3 November 2010 Comment Letter B (cont'd.) Thank you for including SDCAS in the City's environmental review process for this project. Sincerely, es W. Royle, Jr., Chairp Environmental Review Comnu ee cc: ASM Affiliates 'SDCAS President File P.O. Box 81106 • San Diego, CA 92138-1106 • (858) 538-0935 National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS RTC-4 November 2010 sTATs of CAUPORNIA—RIISINRSS. TRANSPORTATION AND HOUSING AGENCY _ASNi)) J)WARZENEGG6R. Governor DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT II PLANNING DIVISION 4050 TAYLOR STREET, M.S. 240 SAN DIEGO, CA 92110 PHONE (619) 688-6681 FAX (619) 688-2511 rry 711 September 1, 2010 Mr. Raymond Pe, AICP Principal Planner City of National City 1243 National City Blvd. National City, CA 91950 Dear Mr. Pe: Comment Letter C Fie, your power! Be energy efficient! 11-SD-5 National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Mitigated Negative Declaration The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) appreciates the opporunity to comment on the Proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration for the National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, located in the City of National City (City) and adjacent to Interstate 5 (I-5). Caltrans would like to submit the following comments: The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) 2030 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) Reasonably Expected Revenue Scenario calls for two High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes along I-5 from State Route 905 (SR-905) to Interstate 8 (I-8). Caltrans is currently preparing a Project Study Report (PSR) for the addition of two HOV Lanes along I-5 from approximately State Route 15 (SR-15) to SR-905, including National City. Caltrans encourages the City to participate on this effort as part of this specific plan, as well as the City's General Plan Update, with the possibility of evaluating potential future interchange improvements or modifications as part of this work. Potential transit'mitigation along the I-5 South Corridor for development impacts should also be analyzed, such as improved transit accommodation through the provision of park and ride facilities, bicycle access, signal prioritization for transit, or other enhancements that can improve mobility and alleviate traffic impacts to 1-5. Caltrans encourages the City of National City to engage and work with Caltrans, SANDAG and the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System to explore potential transit improvements as part of a comprehensive strategy to address impacts to I-5. Caltrans would expect that the feasibility of implementing cumulative impact Mitigation along I- 5 be thoroughly analyzed, and funded or implemented in a manner consistent with development approvals. Caltrans recommends an impact fee approach similar to the Chula Vista Western Traffic Development Impact Fee Program be considered as a potential strategy as part of this Specific Plan. "Caimans improves mobility across California" Cl RESPONSE TO COMMENT LETTER BRANCH, STATE OF CALIFORNIA 2010 (COMMENT LETTER C) Response to Comment Cl: Comment Noted. The City transportation planning efforts Caltrans. BY JACOB ARMSTRONG, CHIEF, DEVLEOPMENT REVIEW DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, DATED SEPTEMBER 1, of National City will continue to participate in on the regional/subregional level with SANDAG and National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS RTC-5 November 2010 Mr. Raymond Pe September 1, 2010 Page 2 Comment Letter C (cont'd.) The project will impact Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 northbouni. To mitigate the impact the project identifies that a traffic signal be installed at the subject intersectio i. There currently is a Caltrans project that proposes at -grade improvements on Civic Center Drive from Cleveland Avenue to Harding Avenue. Please contact Michael Webster, Caltrans Project Manager at (619) 688-6090 to coordinate the proposed mitigation and Caltrans project. Any work performed within Caltrans right-of-way (R/W) will require discretionary review and approval by Caltrans and an encroachment permit will be required for any work within the Caltrans' R/W prior to construction. Current policy allows Highway Improvement Projects costing $1 million or less to follow the Caltrans Encroachment Permit process. Highway Improvement Projects costing greater than $1 million but less than $3 millior would be allowed to follow a streamlined project development process similar to the Caltrans Encroachment Permit process. In order to determine the appropriate permit processing of projects funded by others, it is recommended the concept and project approval for work to be do ie on the State Highway System be evaluated through the completion of a Permit Engineering Evaluation Report (PEER). A PEER should always be prepared, regardless of the cost o f improvements, when new operating improvements are constructed by the permittee that beccme part of the State Highway System. These include but are not limited to, signalization, cliannelization, turn pockets, widening, realignment, public road connections, and bike paths and .ones. After approval of the PEER and necessary application and supporting documentation an encroachment permit can be issued. Highway Improvement Projects greater than $3 million, or considered complex projects, would be required to adhere to the full Project Development Process (e.g. Project Initiation Documents, Project Study Reports and Cooperative Agreements). A Caltrans District responsible unit will be notified and a project manager will be assigned to coordinate the project approval. In order to expedite the process for projects sponsored by a local agency or private developer, it is recommended a PEER be prepared and included in the Lead Agency's Cali 'ornia Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) document. This will help expedite the C altrans Encroachment Permit Review process. The PEER document forms and procedures can be found in the Caltrans Project Development Procedures Manual (PDPM). littp://www.dolca.gov/hq/oppd/pdprn/pdpmn.htm http://www.dot.ca. gov/hq/traffops/developserv/permits/pdf/forms/PEER_(TR.-0112).pdf As part of the encroachment permit process, the applicant must provide an approved final environmental document including the CEQA determination addressing any environmental impacts within the Caltrans' R/W, and any corresponding technical studies. If these materials are not included with the encroachment permit application, the applicant will be required to acquire and provide these to Caltrans before the permit application will be accepted. identification of avoidance and/or mitigation measures will be a condition of the encroachment permit approval as well as procurement of any necessary regulatory and resource agency permits. Encroachment permit submittals that are incomplete can result in significant delays in permit approval. "Caltrans improves mobility, across California" AloW .01111 C2 C3 RESPONSE TO COMMENT LETTER BY JACOB ARMSTRONG, CHIEF, DEVLEOPMENT REVIEW BRANCH, STATE OF CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, DATED SEPTEMBER 1, 2010 (COMMENT LETTER C) (continued) Response to Comment C2: As discussed in Section XVI. Transportation/Traffic of the MND, the proposed project is calculated with one horizon year significant impact at the intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NB on -ramp due to the addition of more than two seconds of delay. However, with implementation of Mitigation Measure T-1, this impact will be reduced to a level less than significant. Mitigation Measure T-1 requires the following: As part of the Trade Corridor Improvement Fund (TCIF) Port Access Improvements Project for the intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NB on -ramp, Caltrans has prepared a Project Report and traffic analysis which indicates capacity improvements and a new signal for the intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NB on -ramp, to be constructed in the near -term. These improvements will reduce the traffic impact to a level less than significant. Response to Comment C3: Comment noted. The City of National City will continue to participate in transportation planning efforts on the regional/subregional level with SANDAG and Caltrans. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS RTC-6 November 2010 Comment Letter C Mr. Raymond Pe (cont'd.) September 1, 2010 Page 3 When a property owner proposes to dedicate property to a local agency for Caltrans use in conjunction with a permit project, Caltrans will not issue the encroachment permit until the dedication is made and the property has been conveyed to the Department. Improvement plans for construction within State Highway R/W must include the appropriate engineering information consistent with the state code and signed and stamped by a professional engineer registered in the State of California. Caltrans Permit Manual contains a listing of typical information required for project plans. All design and construction must be in conformance with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. Additional information regarding encroachment permits may be obtained by contacting the Caltrans Permits Office at (619) 688-6158. Early coordination with Caltrans is strongly advised for all encroachment permits. CEQA requires, under Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 21081.6, the adoption of reporting or monitoring programs when public agencies include environmental impact mitigation as a condition of project approval. Reporting or monitoring takes place after project approval to ensure implementation of the project in accordance with the mitigation adopted during the CEQA review process. According to PRC Section 21081.6, when a project has impacts that are of statewide, regional, or area -wide significance, a reporting or monitoring program shall be submitted to Caltrans. Attached are Caltrans guidelines for the submittal of reporting or monitoring programs. Please submit the attached information to the Caltrans Inter -Governmental Review/Development Review contact following project approval. If you have any questions, please contact Anthony Aguirre, of the Development Review Branch, at (619) 688-3161. Sincerely, JACOB ARMSTRONG, Chief Development Review Branch "Cattalos improves nobility across California," 1.0 C3 (cont'd,) C4 RESPONSE TO COMMENT LETTER BY JACOB ARMSTRONG, CHIEF, DEVLEOPMENT REVIEW BRANCH, STATE OF CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, DATED SEPTEMBER 1, 2010 (COMMENT LETTER C) (continued) Response to Comment C4: Comment noted. The City of National City will continue to participate in transportation planning efforts on the regional/subregional level with SANDAG and Caltrans. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS RTC-7 November 2010 STATE OF CALIFORNIA Comment Letter D ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER, Governor PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION 320 WEST 4" STREET, SUITE 500 LOS ANGELES, CA 90013 September 2, 2010 Raymond Pe City of National City 1243 National City Boulevard National City, CA 91950 Dear Mr. Pe: RECEIVED SE 1 0 7 ZON) Community Development Commission Re: SCH# 2010071074; Downtown Specific Plan Amendment, Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS (Previous Case No. SD-2005-3) The California Public Utilities Commission (Commission) has jurisdiction over the safety of highway -rail crossings (crossings) in California. The California Public Utilities Code requires Commission approval for the construction or alteration of crossings and grants the Commission exclusive power on the design, alteration, and closure of crossings. The Commission Rail Crossings Engineering Section (RCES) is in receipt of the Notice of Completion & Environmental Document Transmittal -Mitigated Negative Declaration from the State Clearinghouse for the proposed Downtown Specific Plan Amendment and has reviewed the document for impacts to rail crossing safety. In the TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC Mitigation Measure T-1, its states: "Intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5. A traffic signal shall be installed when warranted. The design of the traffic signal shall be coordinated between City of National City and Caltrans." Civic Center Drive crosses the shared BNSF Railway Company and San Diego Trolley tracks. Any modification to an existing highway -rail crossing including the installation of a new traffic signal within 60 feet of a crossing that would be interconnected to the railroad warning devices would require a GO 88-B request to be submitted to RCES. Requirements under Section 8D.07 Traffic Control Signals at or Near Highway Rail Grade Crossings of the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices should be followed. The Commission should also be listed as a party to coordination efforts. The following link below provides more information regarding our GO 88-B process and frequently asked questions: <http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/PUC/Transportation/crossings/Filing+Procedures/go88B.htm> If you have any questions, please contact Laurence Michael, Utilities Engineer at 213-576-7076, Idi@cpuc.ca.gov, or myself at rxm@cpuc.ca.gov, 213-576-7078. Sincerely, Rosa Mufioz, PE Utilities Engineer Rail Crossings Engineering Section Consumer Protection & Safety Division DI RESPONSE TO COMMENT LETTER BY ROSA MUNOZ, UTILITIES ENGINEER, RAIL CROSSINGS ENGINEERING SECTION, CONSUMER PROTECTION & SAFETY DIVISION, STATE OF CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, DATED SEPTEMBER 2, 2010 (COMMENT LETTER D) Response to Comment Dl: This letter states that Civic Center Drive crosses the shared BNSF Railway Company and San Diego Trolley tracks. As such, any modification to an existing highway -rail crossing must comply with the PUC requirements regarding rail -crossing safety. The proposed project will comply with the PUC requirements with the implementation of Mitigation Measure T-1, which has been revised since the Draft MND to address Caltrans Project Report prepared for the Trade Corridor Improvement Fund (TCIF) Port Access Improvements Project. This mitigation measure requires the installation of a traffic signal and necessary traffic signal warrants at the Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NM on -ramp. In addition, the City of National City will coordinate with Caltrans and the PUC to ensure that all requirements, including execution of a GO 88-B, are met prior to construction of the programmed improvements at the intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NB on -ramp. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS RTC-8 November 2010 Comment Letter E STATE OF CALIFORNIA Governor's Office of Planning and Research State Clearinghouse and Planning Unit Arnold Schwarzenegger ' Governor September 3, 2010 • Raymond Pe National City • 1243 National City Boulevard National City, CA 91950 RECEIVED SEP 0 7 2010. CommunDevelopment Commission ml4�o peAufe Cathleen Cox Acting Director Subject: National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment, Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS (Previous Case No. SD-2005-3) SCH#: 2010071074 Dear Raymond Pe: The State Clearinghouse submitted the above named Mitigated Negative Declaration to selected state agencies for review. The review period closed on September 2, 2010, and no state agencies submitted comments by that date. This letter acknowledges that you have complied with the State Clearinghouse review requirements for draft environmental documents, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act. Please call the State Clearinghouse at (916) 445-0613 if you have any questions regarding the environmental review process. If you have a question' about the above-named.project, please refer to the ten -digit State Clearinghouse number when contacting this office. ' Sincerely, Scott Moran • Director, State Clearinghouse 1400 TENTH STREW P.O. BOX 3044 • BAORAMENTO, OALIFOIiNIA 95812.8041 TEL (916) 445-0619 PAX (916) 821.1018 www.opr.ca.gav El RESPONSE TO COMMENT LETTER BY TERRY ROBERTS, DIRECTOR, STATE OF CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR'S OFFICE OF PLANNING AND RESEARCH STATE CLEARINGHOUSE AND PLANNING UNIT, DATED SEPTEMBER 3, 2010 (COMMENT LETTER E) Response to Comment El: The letter states that this project complied with CEQA requirements for review of draft environmental documents, and no comments were received from any state agencies. No response is required. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS RTC-9 November 2010 Document Details Report State Clearinghouse Data Base Comment Letter E (cont'd.) SCH# 2010071074 Project Title National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment, Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS (Previous Case No. Lead Agency SD-2005-3) National City Type MND Mitigated Negative Declaration Description The proposed project is a proposed Specific Plan Amendment to the existing National City Downtown Specific Plan. The project consists of two components: 1) an amendment to the Downtown Specific Plan; and 2) a proposed residential development within one half -block portion of the project site. The Downtown Specific Plan boundary would be expanded to incorporate the three, half -blocks located east of Roosevelt Avenue, south of Civic Center Drive, and north of 16th Street. Lead Agency Contact Name Raymond Pe Agency National City Phone 619-336-4421 Fax email Address 1243 National City Boulevard City National City State CA Zip 91950 Project Location County San Diego _ _ City National City Region Lat/Long Cross Streets Roosevelt Ave and Civic Center Drive Parcel No. 13 parcels Township Range Section Base Proximity to: Highways 1.5, 1-805, SR-54 Airports Railways San Diego Trolley Waterways San Diego Harbor Schools 10 within 2 miles Land Use Residential, Light Manufacturing/MLR (Residential, Light Manufacturing) Project issues AestheticNlsual; Air Quality; Archaeologic -Historic; Geologic/Seismic; Landuse; Noise; Public Services; Toxic/Hazardous; Traffic/Circulation Reviewing Resources Agency; California Coastal Commission; Department of Fish and Game, Region 5; Office of Agencies Historic Preservation; Department of Parks and Recreation; Department of Water Resources; California Highway Patrol; Caltrans, District 11; Regional Water Quality Control Board, Region 9; Native American Heritage Commission; Public Utilities Commission Date Received 07/28/2010 Start of Review 07/28/2010 End of Review 09/02/2010 Note: Blanks In data fields result from insufficient infnrmatinn nrnviried nv lead National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS RTC-10 November 2010 The Fio,,, of •{.. P,oducts A CAL Cozp 5ezvinz Industry September 14, 2010 City of National City Planning and Building Dept 1243 National City Blvd. National City, Ca 91950-4301 Mr.Pe: PRECISION, INC. P.O BOX99838 '" SAN DIEGO CA 92169 ATT: Raymond Pe, AICP Principal planner' Comment Letter F Tel: (858) 581-6370 Fax: (619)474-1300 Thank you for the time spent several weeks ago to explain your departments plans for National City where the three half streets would now be annexed into your "East" plan. My property is in the center street and would be subject to whatever discretionary ideas that come up. The street next to mine is being spoken for by a proposal to build within 15th and 1 e streets by Library Village South, inc. My property corners on 15thst. You indicated that I would become subject to eminent domain should they or others wish to do the same on my street. I strongly oppose your current plan for a number of reasons. Some of which are: I am in limbo for further development of energy conservation by adding solar and wind as you might try to eject me at any time. I cannot attempt to sell my,property to anyone, you've locked me in with eminent domain as a prospect. If I have an offer today it would fall by the wayside and any deal would fall apart, and if I had an offer, would eminent domain pay that same price? You had refused in earlier years to deny access to others that wanted to build in these streets, yet now you wish to turn this over to a shell company. Library Village South, Inc is owned by Willmark Communities: google them and find as I did the following reviews they have received: "They are Useless" By Mandie June 9, 2010 "Lie, cheat and steal" by Trost Dec. 15 2009 "Horrible company" by Daniel Oct 1 2009 • So I ask the following questions: Have your ever investigated the developer for character? How come they used a shell name and not their own when approaching you? If they did, why did you hide that information. Does my being on site over 10 years and employing local people have any bearing at all or is my size as a company so small you can just roll over me? Sincerely, • Max Fried im, Pres. PDQ Precision, Inc. Awe4pti•IeaGonufigiQn PLANT: 1433 Roosevelt Ave., National City, CA. 91950. Tel: (619) 474-3600 RECEIVED SEA I a 2WU unity • F1 RESPONSE TO COMMENT LETTER BY MAX FRIEDHEIM, PRESIDENT, PDQ PRECISION, INC., DATED SEPTEMBER 14, 2010 (COMMENT LETTER F) Response to Comment F1: Comment noted. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS RTC-11 November 2010 Initial Study - Page 1 of 42 CALIFORNIA NATIONAL €Iry I7an ,i NCORPORATED -� CITY OF NATIONAL CITY Planning Division 1243 National City Boulevard National City, CA 91950 CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) Environmental Checklist 1. PROJECT TITLE/PROJECT #: National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment, Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS (Previously Case No. SP-2005-3) 2. LEAD AGENCY: City of National City 1243 National City Boulevard National City, CA 91950 Contact Person: Raymond Pe, AICP, Principal Planner Advance Planning Division Phone No.: (619) 336-4421 3. PROJECT LOCATION: A 3.69-acre area, including 13 parcels totaling 1.95-acres, situated south of Civic Center Drive, north of 16th Street, east of Roosevelt Avenue, and west of National City Boulevard, within the City of National City (APN #'s: 560-064-01, 560-064-02, 560-064-03, 560-064-04, 560-064-05, 560-063-01, 560-063- 02, 560-063-03, 560-063-04, 560-063-05, 560-014-01, 560- 014-11, 560-014-05). 4. PROJECT SPONSOR: City of National City 1243 National City Boulevard National City, CA 91950 Contact: Raymond Pe, Principal Planner Advance Planning Division Phone No.: (619) 336-4421 5. COMBINED GENERAL PLAN/ ZONING DESIGNATION: 6. ASSOCIATED APPLICATIONS: 7. PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Residential, Light Manufacturing (MLR) Consistency Review, Case No. 2008-41 and 2008-42 Please refer to the attached Project Description. 8. SURROUNDING LAND USES AND SETTING: Please refer to attached Project Description. 9. OTHER AGENCIES WHOSE APPROVAL MAY BE REQUIRED (AND PERMITS NEEDED): N/A National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 2 of 42 ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" or is "Potentially Significant Unless Mitigated," as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. ❑ Aesthetics ❑ Agriculture and Forestry D Air Quality Resources ❑ Biological Resources l Cultural Resources 0 Geology/Soils ID Greenhouse Gas Emissions l Hazards & Hazardous Materials ❑ Hydrology /Water Quality ❑ Land Use/Planning ❑ Mineral Resources ID Noise ❑ Population & Housing El Public Services ❑ Recreation • Transportation/Traffic Utilities & Service Systems Mandatory Findings of Significance National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Inifi�tl tihu14� - of -I_' DETERMINATION: (To be completed by the Lead Agency) On the basis of this Initial Evaluation: I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, ❑ and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that although the proposed project COULD HAVE a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because the mitigation measures described on an attached sheet have been added to the project. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect(s) on the environment, and an ❑ ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect(s) on the environment, but at least one effect (1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and (2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets, if the effect is a "potentially significant impact" or is "potentially significant unless mitigated." An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effect that remains to be addressed. 0 I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, ❑ because all potentially significant effects (1) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (B) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. Signature Plla Date: July 28, 2010 Printed Name: Raymond Pe, AICP Title: Principal Planner National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Irlili,ltihci-}'a•,c4o.-ICI EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS: 1. A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are adequately supported by the information sources a lead agency cites in the parentheses following each question. A "No Impact" answer is adequately supported if the referenced information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to the project. A "No Impact" answer should be explained where it is based on project -specific factors as well as general standards (e.g., the project will not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants, based on a project -specific screening analysis). 2. All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off -site as well as on -site, cumulative as well as project -level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational impacts. 3. Once the lead agency has determined that a particular physical impact may occur, then the checklist answers must indicate whether the impact is potentially significant, less than significant with mitigation, or less than significant. "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence than an effect may be significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact" entries when the determination is made, an EIR is required. 4. "Negative Declaration: Less than Significant w/ Mitigation Incorporated" applied where the incorporation of a mitigation measure has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact" to "Less then Significant Impact". The lead agency must describe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level (mitigation measures from "Earlier Analysis," as described in (5) below, may be cross-referenced). 5. Earlier analyses may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA process, an effect has been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063(c)(3)(D). In this case, a brief discussion should identify the following: a) Earlier Analysis Used. Identify and state where they are available for review. b) Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis. c) Mitigation Measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Measures Incorporated," describe the mitigation measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site -specific conditions for the project. 6. Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for potential impacts (e.g. general plans, zoning ordinances). References to a previously prepared or outside document should, where appropriate, include a reference to the page or pages where the statement is substantiated. 7. Supporting Information Sources: A source list should be attached, and other sources used or individuals contacted should be cited in the discussion. 8. This in only a suggested form, and lead agencies are free to use different formats; however, lead agencies should normally address the questions from this checklist that are relevant to a project's environmental effects in whichever format is selected. 9. The explanation of each issue should identify: a) The significance criteria or threshold, if any, used to evaluate each question; and b) The mitigation measure identified, if any, to reduce the impact to less than significance. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 5 of 42 ISSUES with Supporting Documentation & Sources I. AESTHETICS - Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? Discussion: Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w! Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ x 0 0 a) No Impact. There are no designated scenic vistas nearby or across the project site. As such, the proposed project would not affect a scenic vista. The proposed project would be incorporated into the boundaries of the existing Downtown Specific Plan. Any future development of the project site would be subject to the development standards, design guidelines, and landscaping requirements as established in the Downtown Specific Plan and the currently proposed Development Zone 12B standards. The blocks adjoining Roosevelt Avenue, (to the west of the project site) is within the Westside Specific Plan and Mixed Residential Commercial Office is identified for the parcels located along the west side of Roosevelt Avenue. This zone allows buildings up to three stories in height. The proposed Development Zone 12B would be compatible with, and complement the Mixed Residential Commercial Office zone to the west of the project site. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) b) No Impact. The project site is not located in the vicinity of a designated state scenic highway. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. c) Less Than Significant Impact. For comparison purposes, Figure 1 (found at the end of this Initial Study) provides a basic frame model that depicts the potential maximum building massing that could occur under the immediately adjacent (to the east) Development Zone 12 (proposed `12A'), which allows for mid -rise residential development with an FAR of 5:1 and a maximum building height of 90 feet. Figure 1 provides the development standards that were applied to the mass models that were prepared for the proposed project. Figures 2 and 3 provide conceptual computer model simulations of how the Specific Plan Amendment Area (Blocks 1 through 3) could look after the blocks are redeveloped in accordance with the proposed Development Zone 12B development standards. As described in the Project Description, Development Zone 12B would allow a Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 4:1 and a maximum building height of 65 feet. Required parking in the Downtown Specific Plan area is excluded from the FAR calculation; therefore, any above grade parking does not count (is not factored into) the maximum National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 6 of 42 FAR calculation. Therefore, the primary limiting factor is the 65-foot height limit, which allows a five to six story in height building, depending on topography and actual story height. Figures 2 and 3 depict the context of the potential building massing that would be allowed under proposed Development Zone 12B as compared to existing Development Zone 12 (proposed 12A) regulations. The maximum development envelope allowed under the new Development Zone 12B regulations would result in development that is stepped down in scale and height from the immediately adjacent Development Zone 12A. Roosevelt Avenue then provides a transition between the Downtown Specific Plan development regulations and the Westside Specific Plan development regulations, which allow for building heights up to 50-feet along Roosevelt Avenue.. As such, proposed development allowed within the project area will be consistent with surrounding neighborhoods. To further illustrate the development standards proposed for Development Zone 12B, Figures 4 and 5 provide cross -sections of potential development options for the new Development Zone 12B that are depicted in Figures 1, 2, and 3. Furthermore, similar to that described in the National City Downtown Specific Plan Final Program Environmental Impact Report (FPEIR), any proposed development within the project site will be required to be consistent with the design and landscaping guidelines of the National City Downtown Specific Plan ("Specific Plan") (City of National City, 2005). All projects within the project site will be reviewed by the City for consistency with the design guidelines of the Specific Plan during the project approval process (i.e., consistency review). The proposed project will have a positive aesthetic impact to the project area with new and improved development with a downtown aesthetic feel, which is anticipated to enhance the visual character of the area. Therefore, the proposed project will not degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and the surrounding area, and a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6) d) Less Than Significant Impact. Future development within Development Zone 12B will increase nighttime lighting; however, the increase would not be considered substantial, would not be high intensity, and would not affect any nighttime views. Furthermore, all proposed lighting would be consistent with design guidelines and standards of the Specific Plan. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1, 3, 4, and 5) II. AGRICULTURE AND FOREST RESOURCES -- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant Impact Mitigation Impact environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Incorporated Land Evaluation & Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Dept. of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. In determining whether impacts to forest resources, including timberland, are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to information compiled by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection regarding the state's inventory of forest land, including the Forest Range Assessment Project and the Forest Legacy Assessment project; and forest carbon measurement methodology provided in Forest Protocols adopted by the California Air Resources Board. Would the project: a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps ❑ ❑ ❑ National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 7 of 42 prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non- agricultural use? b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? ❑ ❑ ❑ c) Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, 0 0 0 x forestland (as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by Public Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code section 51104(g))? d) Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land 0 0 ❑ x to non -forest use? e) Involve other changes in the existing environment which, 0 0 0 x due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use or conversion of forest land to non -forest use? Discussion: a) though e) No Impact. National City is a built -out community and there is no farmland or forest land mapped or planned to be mapped within the City, or more specifically on the project site. The site is also currently zoned for light -manufacturing and residential uses and the proposed Development Zone 12B will allow uses such as multifamily residential, retail, office, and hospitality, none of which allow for agricultural or forestry uses. Furthermore, no Williamson Act contract is associated with the land; therefore, the development would have no impact on agricultural or forestry zoned areas. (Sources: 1, 2, 3, and 14) III. AIR QUALITY Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w! Significant Impact Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air Impact Mitigation Impact quality management or air pollution control district may be relied upon to Incorporated make the following determinations. Would the project: a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation? c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non - attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)? ❑ ❑ x ❑ x 0 ❑ x 0 National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 1iuf ..I I 1v - -42 d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people? Discussion: ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ ❑ x ❑ a) Less Than Significant Impact. As discussed in detail below, the proposed project will not conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. b) Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. As described in detail below, the proposed project would violate an air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation. However, with the implementation of Mitigation Measures AQ-1 and AQ-2, this impact will be reduced to a level less than significant. c) Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. As described in detail below, the proposed project would result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non -attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors). However, with the implementation of Mitigation Measures AQ-1 and AQ-2, this impact will be reduced to a level less than significant. d) Less Than Significant Impact. As described in detail below, the proposed project will not expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. e) Less Than Significant Impact. As discussed in detail below, the proposed project would not create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. The following information is summarized from the Air Quality Conformity Assessment prepared for the proposed project by Investigative Science and Engineering, Inc. (ISE), dated January 26, 2010. This report is provided as Appendix A of this Initial Study. Existing Conditions The project site is located in the northwestern coastal portion of the San Diego Air Basin. The Basin continues to have a transitional -attainment status of federal standards for Ozone (03). The Basin is either in attainment or unclassified for federal standards of CO, SO2, NO2, PM10, and lead. The closest air quality monitoring stations to the project site are the Chula Vista and San Diego Monitoring Stations. Tables 3a through 3h of the Air Quality Conformity Assessment (Appendix A of this Initial Study) provide a summary of the highest pollutant levels recorded at these monitoring stations for the last year available. San Diego County areas in general are also in attainment of state air quality standards for all pollutants with the exception of 03 and PM10. Furthermore, factors affecting ground level pollutant concentrations include the rate at which pollutants are emitted to the atmosphere, the height from which they are released, and topographic and meteorological features. Given these factors, both the Chula Vista and San Diego stations reported exceedances for 03 and PM10. All other criteria pollutants were within both federal and state standards or not monitored due to these factors. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Inifi�i1 tihuiv - ) -I' Short-term Impacts Project Construction Emissions Impacts Table 4a of the Air Quality Conformity Assessment identifies the estimated diesel exhaust emissions for site clearing and grading inclusive of any onsite powered haulage. Construction of the proposed project would generate the following air emissions in pounds/day: CO (28.0), NOx (69.4), SOX (6.3), PM10 (4.4), PM2.5 (4.2), and ROG (8.1). Based upon these findings, no significant air quality impacts are expected due to construction grading operations associated with the proposed project. The APCD thresholds would not be exceeded. In addition, Table 4b of the Air Quality Conformity Assessment identifies the anticipated emissions due to underground utility construction and surface paving activities for any phase of construction. As identified in Table 4b, no significant impact is expected from these smaller operations associated with the proposed project. Fugitive Dust Emission Levels (PMwo, PM2.52 Construction activities are also a source of fugitive dust emissions that may have a substantial, but temporary, impact on local air quality. Construction grading operations on the project site are anticipated as being no greater than a worst -case 6,300 cubic -yards (cy) of material moved over any anticipated 30- day earthwork period. Remedial grading, if required in some areas, would occur at a subsequent date and would be minimal compared to this value. Based on the calculations provided in the Air Quality Conformity Assessment, the proposed project is anticipated to generate a total fugitive dust (PM10) load of 5.6 pounds per day. This level is far below the 100 pounds per day threshold established by the San Diego Air Pollution Control District (SDAPCD). Therefore, no impacts are identified for the construction phase. As for PM2.5 levels the proposed project is anticipated to generate 1.2 pounds per day, which is below the proposed threshold of significance of 55 pounds per day for this pollutant. Therefore, no impact associated with fugitive dust is identified with the implementation of the proposed project. Unpaved road travel due to construction activities is also unknown at this time. For the purposes of analysis within the Air Quality Conformity Assessment, it was assumed that contractors' vehicles moving onsite would traverse a total of five miles per day (VMT) during the 60 days of earthwork and site preparation. Therefore, unpaved road travel is calculated to generate 2.7 pounds of PM10 per day and 0.6 pounds of PM2.5 per day, both of which are below the threshold of significance levels identified above and established by the SDAPCD. Therefore, no impact related to unpaved road travel during construction of proposed project is identified. Combustion -Fired Health Risk Emission Levels (CO, NO,, SO, PMio PM2.52 Table 5 of the Air Quality Conformity Assessment identifies the emission rates for the various criteria pollutants, in grams per second and grams per square meter per second. Table 6 of the Air Quality Conformity Assessment identifies the expected combustion fired construction emission concentrations from the SCREEN3 modeling. Based upon the model results, all criteria pollutants were below the recommended health risk level with a PM10 risk probability of 0.423 percent per 70-years exposure duration. Therefore, no significant carcinogenic impact potential is expected due to the proposed grading operations associated with the proposed project. In addition, the proposed project is identified as generating a worst -case PM10 level of 14.1 pg/m3 occurring at a distance of 132 meters (433 feet) from the project site. This pollutant concentration is below the California Ambient Air Quality Standard (CAAQS) of 50 pg/m3 established by the Stated for any given 24-hour exposure period. Furthermore, the anticipated diesel -fired PM2.5 levels would not be expected to exceed 13 pg/m3, which is also below the Federal National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) 24-hour threshold of 35 pg/m3. Therefore, no impact associated with the generation of diesel - fired PM10 and PM2.5 is identified with the implementation of the proposed project. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Iniliul SthLIv - 1'dIc 10 of 12 Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) Emissions Potential from Architectural Coatings Due to the programmatic nature of the project design at this point, exact painting quantities are unknown. It is expected that the proposed project will generate a total unmitigated architectural generated VOC level of 71.2 pounds per day. However, this VOC load can be reduced to a VOC level of 25.6 pounds per day with the use of Low VOC paints. As such, with the assumption that the project contractors will use Low VOC paints, no impact associated VOC emissions is identified with the implementation of the proposed project. Odor Impact Potential from the Project Site The inhalation of VOC's causes smell sensations in humans. These odors can affect human health. The development of the project site could generate trace amounts of substances such as ammonia, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, methane, dust, organic dust, endotoxins, etc. Odor generation impacts due to the proposed project are not expected to be significant, since any odor generation would be intermittent and would terminate upon completion of the construction phase of the project. As a result, no significant air quality impacts associated with odors is anticipated to occur. Project Vehicular Emission Levels (Construction Phase) As discussed in the Air Quality Conformity Assessment, it is assumed that the off -site powered haulage for demolition debris removal from the project site would consist of a total of a worst -case 50 Average Daily Trips (ADT) during a 30-day construction period. The average trip distance for material export is also assumed to be 20-miles based upon the driving distances to nearby landfills/recycling areas. Based on the analysis provided in the Air Quality Conformity Assessment no significant impacts associated with vehicular emissions during construction are anticipated. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. Long-term Impacts Vehicular Emissions due to Project Operation The proposed project is expected to have a worst -case trip generation level of 2,873 ADT based upon the cumulative trip generation produced by the proposed project. Table 7 of the Air Quality Conformity Assessment identifies the calculated daily emission levels due to travel to and from the project site. The operation of the proposed project will result in the following vehicular air emissions in pounds per day: CO (159.2), NOX (50.3), SOX (0.2), PM10 (1.5), PM2.5 (1.5), and ROG (6.1). Based upon the findings, no significant impacts for any criteria pollutants were identified. In addition, Tables 8a through 8e of the Air Quality Conformity Assessment lists the roadway segments identified by the Traffic Impact Analysis prepared by LOS Engineering, Inc. for the proposed project (Appendix F of this Initial Study) for the cumulative buildout scenarios, the predicted peak hour traffic volume, and the expected incremental criteria pollutant emission levels. Based upon results of this analysis, no localized criteria pollutant impacts were identified for any roadway segment examined. The roadway segments were found to comply with the CAAQS and NAAQS standards. Therefore, no impact associated with vehicular emissions during project operation are identified with the implementation of the proposed project. Predicated Operational Emission Levels As described in the Air Quality Conformity Assessment, fixed emission sources for the proposed project would consist of small gasoline engines used with lawn mowers and landscaping equipment as well as emissive sources from natural gas powered appliances. Each of these sources are discussed in detail in the Air Quality Conformity Assessment. Based on the analysis, these sources would not generate significant emission sources and would not result in an air quality impact. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Iniliul S[.aLJv - PI,c 11 of 42 Natural Gas Emission Sources As described in the Air Quality Conformity Assessment, natural gas consumption (typically due to the usage of central heating units and water heaters) associated with the proposed project would not generate a significant amount emission sources and would not result in an air quality impact. Consistency with Regional Air Quality Management Plans Based on the analysis provided in the Air Quality Conformity Assessment, the proposed project is consistent with the future build out plans for the project site under the City of National City's General Plan per the adoption of the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment, and therefore satisfies the Consistency Criterion of the Regional Air Quality Strategy for the San Diego Air Basin. In summary, based on the Air Quality Conformity Assessment prepared for the proposed project it is not anticipated that future development will exceed any established air quality emission thresholds. However, because specific development projects are not proposed at this time for the entire project site, future projects could emit emissions that exceed air quality thresholds at that time. Consistent with the Downtown Specific Plan FPEIR, the City will evaluate all future projects proposed for the project site for potential air quality impacts at the time plans are submitted for approval. Measures to reduce air quality impacts will be incorporated when required to reduce both short and long-term air quality impacts for compliance with air emission thresholds enforced by SDAPCD. Therefore, Mitigation Measures AQ-1 and AQ-2 which have been derived from the Downtown Specific Plan FPEIR shall be implemented to ensure future development within the project site will not result in a significant air quality impact (City of National City, 2005). (Sources: 5 and 7) Mitigation Measures: Mitigation Measure AQ-1: Short -Term Construction If air quality impacts associated with construction of an approved project within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area exceed the significance thresholds, mitigation measures identified below should be implemented as feasible to reduce emissions of the project. Mitigation measures from the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) are presented below and are recommended for projects in the San Diego Air Basin, where applicable. The following measures are recommended to reduce pollutant emissions from construction activities. The construction operators shall implement these measures: • Use water trucks to keep all areas where vehicles move damp enough to prevent dust raised when traveling on the site; • Wet down the site in the late morning and after work is completed for the day; • After construction, wet inactive areas down to reduce windblown dust; • Employ street sweeping, should silt be carried over to adjacent public roadways; • Wash off trucks leaving the site; • Reestablish ground cover on the construction site through seeding and watering on portions of the site that will not be disturbed for lengthy periods (such as two months or more); • Maintain construction equipment engines by keeping them tuned; and, • Reduce traffic speeds on all unpaved road surfaces to 15 miles per hour or less. Mitigation Measure AQ-2: Long-term The most significant reductions in regional and local air pollutant emissions are attainable through programs, which reduce the vehicular travel associated with the project. Support and compliance with the Regional Air Quality Strategy (RAQS) for the basin is the most important measure to achieve this goal. The RAQS includes improvement of mass transit facilities and implementation of vehicular usage National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 12 of 42 reduction programs. Additionally, energy conservation measures are included. None of these recommended mitigation measures are strictly required. However, all relevant measures should be applied to the greatest extent possible. Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Measures: • Schedule truck deliveries and pickups for commercial uses during off-peak hours when feasible. This will alleviate traffic congestion; therefore, emissions during the peak hour. • Provide adequate ingress and egress at all entrances to public facilities to minimize vehicle idling at curbsides. Presumably, this measure would improve traffic flow into and out of the parking lot. The air quality benefits are incalculable because more specific data is required. • Provide on -site services. Provide incentives such as on -site ATMs and other similar measures that address lifestyle needs. These measures reduce Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT), but the air quality benefit cannot be quantified because more specific data is required. Energy Efficient Measures and Additional Measures Compliance with Title 24, Part 6, California's Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings. All buildings must comply with Title 24, Part 6. Reducing the need to heat or cool structures by improving thermal integrity will result in a reduced expenditure of energy and a reduction in pollutant emissions. Develop operational emissions mitigation plan. Prior to approval of each building permit for a commercial or office use, the applicant shall submit to the City for approval, an operational emissions mitigation plan. The plan shall identify implementation procedures for each of the following emissions reduction measures. If certain measures are determined infeasible, an explanation thereof shall be provided in the operational emissions mitigation plan. - Utilize built-in energy -efficient appliances to reduce energy consumption and emissions. - Utilize energy -efficient and automated controls for air conditioners and lighting to reduce electricity consumption and associated emissions. Coordinate with Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) regarding the location of bus turnouts and bus routed within the project area. IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES — Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) or US Fish and Wildlife Service? Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w! Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 13 of 42 c) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected ❑ ❑ ❑ x wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? ❑ ❑ ❑ x e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting ❑ ❑ ❑ x biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? Discussion: ❑ ❑ ❑ x a) through f) No Impact. The project site is located completely within an urbanized area, is developed or otherwise disturbed, and is surrounded by development and roads. The site contains no sensitive habitats or biological resources that are protected by local policies or ordinances. There are also no adopted habitat conservation plans known that include the proposed project site. Based on a physical inspection of the property, the site is improved with various buildings and residences and the site contains ornamental landscaping. There are no jurisdictional wetlands, other sensitive habitat, or sensitive species detected on the property; and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service maps indicate that there are no jurisdictional wetlands or jurisdictional waters of U.S. or state -defined streambeds on site. There are no anticipated impacts to biological resources. (Sources: 1 and 5) V. CULTURAL RESOURCES Would the project: a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in Section 15064.5? b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to 15064.5? c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated ❑ x ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ ❑ x ❑ National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 14 of 42 Discussion: a) Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. As discussed in detail below, five buildings within the project site are potentially considered historic resources that would be impacted by the proposed project. However, with the implementation of Mitigation Measure CR-1, this impact will be reduced to a level less than significant. b) Less Than Significant Impact. As discussed below in detail, the proposed project will not cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to 15064.5. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. The following information is summarized from the Cultural and Historical Resource Survey conducted for the project site and prepared by ASM Affiliates, dated April 2, 2009. The survey included a records search and literature review, field survey, photo documentation of potentially significant buildings identified during the survey, and archival research This report is provided as Appendix B1 of this Initial Study. Based on the records search, twenty-two historical buildings, sixteen historical resources and three archaeological resources have been recorded within one mile of the project area; however, none of these resources are located within the National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area (the project site). No prehistoric archaeological resources were identified within the project area as a result of the records search and field survey. The parcels within the project area are developed and there is a low potential for prehistoric or historic resources. Additionally, a Sacred Lands File search was conducted and no known Native American cultural resources were identified in the project area. There is a low potential for subsurface cultural deposits based on the results of the records search and the fact that the area is developed. Additionally, the portion of National City where the project site is located did not begin to be developed until the early 1900s. Prior to that time, development was focused on the lots adjacent to the railroad, to the west of the present downtown area. The potential for substantial historical deposits is low within the project site given the fact that houses were first constructed within the project site after 1910 when sewer and trash collection services were likely provided. CEQA Section 15064.5, provides for a public agency to determine the significance of impacts on historical resources. A structure is considered a historic resource if it is "listed in, or determined to be eligible by the State Historical Resources Commission, for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources" or "included in a local register of historical resources" or "identified as significant in an historical resource survey meeting the requirements section 5024.1(g) of the Public Resources Code." Public agencies must treat any such resource as significant unless the preponderance of evidence demonstrates that it is not historically or culturally significant. Section 5024.1(g) of the Public Resources Code provides criteria for evaluating the significance of a potential resource. The resource would be considered historically significant if the resource is: A. Is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of California's history and cultural heritage; B. Is associated with the lives of persons important in our past; C. Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region, or method of construction, or represents the work of an important creative individual, or possesses high artistic values; or D. Has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history. As summarized in Table 5 of the Cultural Resources Report six buildings located within the project area were constructed between approximately 1910 and 1929 (one was extensively altered after 1950). National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 15 of 42 These buildings meet the age threshold for eligibility to the California Register of Historic Resources (CRHR) and may be eligible for listing in the CRHR as they relate to the early residential development of National City in the early 1900's. The buildings may be eligible under criteria A (historical association), criteria B (association with important person), or C (architectural distinction). 1405 Roosevelt Avenue. This building is identified as a church with a Spanish Eclectic architectural style. The building was constructed in the 1920s based on review of the Sanborn Fire Insurance Company maps. 1415 Roosevelt Avenue. This building is identified as a vernacular bungalow style single-family residence. The building was constructed in the 1920s based on review of the Sanborn Fire Insurance Company maps. 1423 Roosevelt Avenue. This building is identified as a one -and -one half story Craftsman bungalow single-family residence. The building was constructed in 1911/1912 based on review of the Sanborn Fire Insurance Company maps and County Assessor records. 1427 Roosevelt Avenue. This building is identified as a Craftsman bungalow single-family residence. The building was constructed in 1911/1915 based on review of the Sanborn Fire Insurance Company maps and County Assessor records. 1429 Roosevelt Avenue. This building is identified as a vernacular two-story single-family residence. The building was reconstructed in 1950 based on review of the Sanborn Fire Insurance Company maps. 1513 Roosevelt Avenue. This building is identified as a vernacular bungalow style single-family residence. The building was constructed in the 1911 based on review of the Sanborn Fire Insurance Company maps. A Historical Building Evaluation of the portion of the project site proposed to be developed with the residential development was conducted by ASM Affiliates on June 7, 2010. This report is provided as Appendix B2 of this Initial Study. Specifically, the study provided an eligibility evaluation for the buildings located within Assessor Parcels 560-064-01, 560-064-02, 560-064-04, and 560-064-05 to the CRHR and National City List of Historic Sites (City List). Three buildings are located within these parcels: 1503 Roosevelt Ave (auto garage), 1513 Roosevelt Avenue (single-family bungalow), and 1539-1543 Roosevelt Avenue (two-story storage building with offices). According to the report, none of the three buildings are eligible for the CRHR or the City List as a historical building. Two of the buildings, 1503 and 1539-1543 Roosevelt Avenue, were constructed in 1978 and 1980, respectively, and therefore fail to meet the age threshold for eligibility. The single-family residence located at 1513 Roosevelt Avenue, which is one of the potential eligible buildings identified above from the Cultural and Historical Resources Survey prepared by ASM (Appendix B1), was constructed prior to 1911. However, this building is recommended not eligible to the CRHR and the City List as it is neither historically nor architecturally significant. Therefore, no historical resources are located within the proposed residential development portion of the project site. Due to the potential eligibility of the five buildings (1405, 1415, 1423, 1427, and 1429 Roosevelt Avenue) located within the remaining portion of the project site, a significant impact to historical resources is identified with the implementation of the proposed project. However, with the implementation of Mitigation Measures CR-1, which requires that a formal evaluation of eligibility to the CRHR be conducted for these buildings, this impact will be reduced to a level less than significant. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 16 of 42 Native American Consultation On March 4, 2009, ASM contacted the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) requesting a Sacred Lands File search. NAHC replied that no known Native American cultural resources were located within the project area. NAHC also provided ASM with a list of Native American tribes and individuals that should be contacted. ASM sent letters to all the tribes and individuals requesting input on March 13, 2009. (Sources: 1, 5, and 8) c) Less Than Significant Impact. The project site is currently developed with existing light manufacturing and residential uses within a densely urbanized area. The project site is underlain with the Bay Point Formation and unnamed, nearshore, marine sandstone (California Division of Mines and Geology, 1977), which has a high sensitivity potential for paleontological resources (Demere, 1993). The project site has been substantially disturbed by grading activities associated with the previous development of the site. Any significant paleontological resources would have likely been unearthed during past grading of the project site. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 5, 16, and 17) d) Less Than Significant Impact. The project site is currently developed with existing light manufacturing and residential uses within a densely urbanized area. The project site has been substantially disturbed by grading activities associated with previous development of the site. It is highly unlikely that any human remains would be found or disturbed. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1, 5, and 8) Mitigation Measure: Mitigation Measure CR-1: Prior to future project approval and issuance of any construction permit within the project site, including but not limited to a demolition or building permit, the applicant shall conduct an evaluation of the five onsite buildings identified as potentially eligible historical structures in the Cultural and Historical Resources Survey prepared by ASM Affiliates, Inc. dated April 2, 2009. The evaluation shall determine if these buildings are eligible for inclusion in the state or local historical registers. The evaluation shall be performed by a historian or architectural historian who meets the Secretary of Interior's Professional Qualification Standards for Historic Preservation Professionals. The historian/architectural historian shall consult with knowledgeable local groups (e.g., Save Our Heritage Organization, National City Historical Society, San Diego Historical Society, and others) and individuals, appropriate archives, and appropriate repositories in an effort to identify the original and subsequent owners as well as the architect and the builder to establish whether any of these individuals played important roles in local or regional history (criterion B). Additionally the physical characteristics and condition of the building or structure shall be evaluated under criterion (C), and those judged to possess "the distinctive characteristic of a type, period, region, or method of construction" shall be further assessed for integrity and context. The results of the archival research and field assessment shall be documented in an evaluation report. This report will explicitly state whether the resource is eligible for either state or local historical registers and shall also make specific recommendations as appropriate. The historian/architectural historian shall complete the necessary California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) site forms (minimally Primary Record and Building/Structure/Object record; others as required) and include as an attachment to the report. Copies of the DPR site forms shall be submitted to the California Historical Resource Information System via the SCIC, an auxiliary of San Diego State University. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Iniliul Study - 17 o1 4 ) VI. GEOLOGY & SOILS Would the project: a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42. ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? iii) Seismic -related ground failure, including liquefaction? iv) Landslides? b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on- or off -site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant wl Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated ❑ 0 x 0 o o x ❑ o x ❑ ❑ o x ❑ ❑ o x ❑ ❑ o x ❑ ❑ d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of 0 x 0 0 the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property? e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste water? Discussion: o 0 0 x a) i) and ii) Less Than Significant Impact. California Geological Survey information indicates the site is not located within an Alquist-Priolo Special Studies Zone, and there are no known active or potentially active faults that intercept the project site; therefore, the potential for ground rupture at this site is considered low. Accordingly, the site is not considered to possess a significantly greater seismic risk than that of the surrounding area in general. In addition, the proposed structures shall be designed in accordance with California Building Code guidelines and/or those adopted by the City of National City. Similar to that described in the National City Downtown Specific Plan FPEIR, the building plans for future development projects within the project site, must be approved by the National City Building department before building permits are issued. As part of the building permit process the City will require the incorporation of all applicable earthquake construction measures required by the Uniform Building Code and the City to protect people and structures from ground -shaking impacts. The incorporation of all applicable earthquake and seismic measures will minimize seismic impacts to less than significant levels. (Sources: 1 and 5) National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 18 of 42 a) iii) through iv) and c) Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. It should be recognized that Southern California is an area that is subject to some degree of seismic risk and that it is generally not considered economically feasible nor technologically practical to build structures that are totally resistant to earthquake -related hazards (e.g., landslides, liquefaction, differential settlement, etc.). Therefore, there is a potential that future development within the project site would be exposed to geologic hazards. Construction in accordance with the minimum requirements of the Uniform Building Code should minimize damage due to seismic events. In addition, the project will also be designed to achieve adequate stability through appropriate grading standards and soil testing to avoid any potential impacts related to expansive soils. However, similar to that described in the National City Specific Plan FPEIR, since specific development plans for future development within the project site, except for the proposed residential apartment buildings, are not available at this time it is speculative to identify with any accuracy the direct and indirect soils and geologic impacts that may occur with their construction. However, with the implementation of Mitigation Measures GS-1, which was derived from the National City Downtown Specific Plan FPEIR, impacts related to geologic hazards will be reduced to a level less than significant. (Sources: 1 and 5) b) and d) Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Depending upon the specific development project, length of construction and the measures that are incorporated, the soil erosion impacts on the project site could be significant. The City requires the installation of erosion protection measures for all projects from the start of construction throughout the life of the project, as applicable, to reduce soil erosion impacts. The incorporation of erosion control measures and Mitigation Measure GS- 1 will reduce this impact to a level less than significant. (Sources: 1 and 5) e) No Impact. The proposed project does not include the use of septic tanks. The existing development within the project site is currently connected to the City's wastewater disposal network. Any new development within the project site would be reconnected to this system and would not require alternative wastewater disposal system such as septic tanks. Therefore, soil suitability for wastewater disposal is not an issue and no impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 5 and 13) Mitigation Measure: Mitigation Measure GS-1: A geotechnical investigation shall be approved by the City prior to the issuance of a grading permit for any development project that requires grading. The geotechnical investigation shall include fieldwork (e.g., subsurface exploration, sampling) and laboratory analysis as directed by the City to determine the exact location and extent of potential geologic/seismic hazards. All applicable remedial grading measures and seismic design parameters recommended by the geotechnical engineer shall be incorporated into the project and shown on the final grading plans and/or incorporated into contractor specifications prior to award of construction contracts, to the satisfaction of the City. VII. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Would the project: a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment? Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated 0 x 0 0 National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 19 of 42 b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted 0 x 0 0 for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases? Discussion: a) and b) Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The following information is summarized from the Greenhouse Gas/Global Warming Risk Assessment prepared for the proposed project by Investigative Science and Engineering, Inc. (ISE), dated January 26, 2010. This report is provided as Appendix C of this Initial Study. Background Information Greenhouse gases are defined as those naturally occurring and anthropogenic chemical compounds within the atmosphere that absorb and reflect infrared radiation emitted by the Earth's surface. A numerical metric known as the Global Warming Potential (GWP) is a measure of how much a given mass of greenhouse gas is estimated to contribute to global warming relative to pure carbon dioxide. Table 1 of the Greenhouse Gas/Global Warming Risk Assessment provides a list of known greenhouse gases and their associated GWP. California has adopted AB32, the Global Warming Solutions Act. The law requires the California Air Resources Board (GARB) to adopt regulations to require reporting and verification of statewide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and to monitor and enforce compliance with that program. As part of this effort, GARB will adopt a statewide greenhouse gas emissions limit equivalent to the statewide greenhouse gas emission levels in 1990, to be achieved by 2020. AB32 does not directly amend CEQA requirements, and there are no acceptable Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), CARB, or SDAPCD thresholds for significance relative to global warming. As a result, there is no consistent means to determining whether a project will make a significant contribution to greenhouse gases. Also, there are a number of limitations and uncertainties commonly associated with the greenhouse gas emission inventory due to the limited availability of CO2 emissions factor data for several mobile sources, stationary sources, and other sources. However, the CARB has published CO2e screening levels as described in detail in the Greenhouse Gas/Global Warming Risk Assessment and were used to analyze the impacts of the proposed project. Analysis Diesel Powered (Compression Ignition) Equipment Contribution The proposed project would utilize a worst -case contingency of construction equipment required to grade and prepare the site for a period of 30-days. As identified in Table 2 of the Greenhouse Gas/Global Warming Risk Assessment, during construction, the proposed project will result in the direct production of 59,721.3 pounds of CO2 or 520,593.3 pounds of CO2e. Operational Motor Vehicle (Spark Ignition) Contribution Motor vehicles are the primary source of greenhouse gas emissions associated with the proposed project. Typically, vehicular trips to and from proposed and existing land uses are the significant contributor of greenhouse gases. The proposed project is expected to have a total trip generation level of 2,873 ADT. Table 3 of the Greenhouse Gas/Global Warming Risk Assessment identifies the operational vehicle GHG levels for the proposed project. Based on the information provided in Table 3, the vehicle operation associated with the proposed project would result in an equivalent CO2e level of 4,469.6 pounds for N2O. The final equivalent daily CO2, load due to vehicular traffic would be 27,551.4 pounds. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 20 of 42 Small Engine and Natural Gas Fired (External Combustion) Contribution Landscaping equipment utilized in the course of maintenance of the grounds would result in GHG emissions. Assuming ultimate user purchases of cleaner burning engines new from the store, emissions rates are specific by CARB in Table 4 of the Greenhouse Gas/Global Warming Risk Assessment (in pounds per day). Based on these rates the proposed project will produce the following small engine emissions levels in pounds per day: • Multi Family Small Engine Emissions: CO2 = 1,529.6 pounds/day N2O = 0.2 pounds/day • Retail/Commercial Small Engine Emissions: CO2 = 1,128.7 pounds/day N2O = 0.3 pounds/day Similarly, natural gas consumption (typically due to usage of water heaters, stoves, and central heating units for this type of proposed use) would produce the following natural gas fired emissions levels in pounds per day: • Multi Family Small Engine Emissions: CO2 = 702.6 pounds/day N2O = 0.1 pounds/day • Retail/Commercial Small Engine Emissions: CO2 = 849.8 pounds/day N2O = 0.0 pounds/day The N2O equivalent CO2e level for both small engine and natural gas fired contribution would be 162.0 pounds per day. The final equivalent CO2 GHG load due to the above cited onsite uses would be 4,372.7 pounds per day. Projected Project Greenhouse Gas Emissions Budget As identified in Table 5 of the Greenhouse Gas/Global Warming Risk Assessment, the projected greenhouse gas emission budget for the proposed project is the summation of the construction operations, vehicle emissions, and small engine/natural gas levels described above. The total emissions for the proposed project would be 552,517.4 pounds/day of CO2er which is 5.9 times greater than the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association (CAPCOA) threshold, which is 1,984,160 pounds of CO2e per year. Therefore, a significant impact related to greenhouse gas emissions is identified for the proposed project. However, with the implementation of Mitigation Measure GG-1, which requires all future development to implement energy conservation measures consistent with the intent of AB32, this impact will be reduced to a level less than significant. Projected Warming Effects Due to Project Equivalent CO20 Based on the detailed analysis and calculations provided in the Greenhouse Gas/Global Warming Risk Assessment, the local annual warming due to the level of project emissions was found to be 9.0370x10-7 °C, which is considered a cumulatively significant impact. However, with the implementation of Mitigation Measure GG-1 this impact will be reduce to a level less than significant. (Sources: 9) Mitigation Measures: Mitigation Measure GHG-1: Consistent with the intent of AB32, the proposed project shall demonstrate that it has measures in place that would assist in providing statewide reduction of CO2 as compared to `business as usual.' The following greenhouse gas offset measures have been shown to be effective by CARB and shall be implemented wherever possible: Diesel Equipment (Compression Ignition) Offset Strategies (40% to 60% Reduction) • Use electricity from power poles rather than temporary diesel power generators. • Construction equipment operating onsite should be equipped with two to four degree engine timing retard or precombustion chamber engines. • Construction equipment used for the project should utilize EPA Tier 2 or better technology. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Inillll1 StHLIV - ;c 2 I 12 Vehicular Trip (Spark Ignition) Offset Strategies (30% to 70% Reduction) • Encourage commute alternatives by informing construction employees and customers about transportation options for reaching your location (i.e., post transit schedules/routes). • Help construction employees rideshare by posting commuter ride sign-up sheets, employee home zip code map, etc. • When possible, arrange for a single construction vendor who makes deliveries for several items. • Purchase Carbon Offsets to compensate for miles traveled by construction vehicles. • Plan construction delivery routed to eliminate unnecessary trips. • Keep construction vehicles well maintained to prevent leaks and minimize emissions, and encourage employees to do the same. • Provide car/van pool parking for construction employees. • Sell bus or light rail passes on -site or at a discount to construction employees. On -site Energy Offset Strategies (50% to 70% Reduction) • Complete regularly scheduled maintenance on HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems. • Use an energy management system to control lighting, kitchen exhaust, refrigeration and HVAC. • Install occupancy sensors for lighting in low occupancy areas. • Retrofit incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lights. • Install ultra efficient ballasts to dim lights to take advantage of daylight. • Insulate all major hot water pipes. • Insulate refrigeration cold suction lines. • Use weather stripping to close air gaps around doors and windows. • Select electrical equipment with energy saving features (e.g., Energy Star). • Plant native shrubs or trees near windows for shade. • Convert hot water heaters to on -demand systems. • Reduce the number of lamps and increase lighting efficiency by installing optical reflectors or diffusers. • Install ceiling fans in homes where applicable. VIII. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Would the project: a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 22 of 42 c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely 0 0 0 x hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one - quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands? Discussion: ❑ x ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 0 x ❑ ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ ❑ x a) Less Than Significant Impact. The proposed project will allow for the development of multi -family housing, retail, office and hospitality uses within the project site. Such uses, will require the routine transport, use and disposal of small amounts of hazardous materials associated with typical residential and retail cleaning and maintenance. However, the use of such materials would be handled in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations and would not create a significant hazard to the public or the environment. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. b) and d) Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The following information is summarized from the Environmental Review prepared for the proposed project by Environmental Resources Management (ERM), dated April 2009. This report is provided as Appendix D of this Initial Study. ERM conducted a Environmental Review of the project site, which included a limited environmental reconnaissance and document review of the project site to provide information regarding the presence or likely presence of hazardous substances on or in close proximity to the project site. Based on observations made during the site visit to the exterior areas of the project site conducted by ERM and a review of available environmental database, the following are considered as potential recognized environmental conditions (REC's): National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 23 of 42 On -site Properties • Several parcels within the project site have been or are currently being used as automobile type repair/maintenance facilities. Given the nature of these businesses, there is a high likelihood that minor to moderate amounts of hazardous materials such as batteries, hydraulic oils, anti -freeze, solvents, and other chemicals are both stored and utilized on a regular basis within the individual businesses. • At least two light industrial manufacturing facilities exist within the project site which likely utilize hydraulic fork lifts, small quantities of solvents, degreasers, and industrial coatings or paint products. Due to the presence of these potentially hazardous materials located on the project site, a significant impact is identified with the implementation of proposed project. However, with the implementation of Mitigation Measures HM-1 and HM-3, this impact will be reduced to a level less than significant. Off -site Properties: Two off -site facilities of concerns were identified that represent potential REC's and are summarized below: The National City Police Station: located north of the project site across Civic Center Drive is associated with a previous unauthorized release of petroleum product (gasoline). The date of this release was identified as February 26, 1992 and was discovered during removal of an underground storage tank at the facility. The release at this facility has been listed as inactive (low priority) based on correspondence from the Department of Environmental Health (DEH) regarding the Priority Oversight Program dated July 21, 2004. A letter from DEH, dated June 8, 1998, indicated that the horizontal extent of the groundwater contamination had not been delineated. There is some indication that the groundwater contamination may extend into Civic Center Drive and off -site facilities. The most recent report on file appears to be 1995. 1520 Roosevelt Avenue — Hopsing Automotive Repair: while not currently a listed site on the database reports reviewed, this site is adjacent to, and potentially located upgradient to the project site. Typical concerns these type of automotive repair facilities include: hazardous materials/petroleum product use, hazardous waste generation disposal issues, small releases over time, paint booths, in -ground hydraulic lifts, in -ground sumps/clarifiers, and solvent parts washers. The lack of involvement in regulatory oversight programs combined with the expected use of hazardous materials is a concern. Due to the close proximity of these sites to the project site a potential impact is identified with the implementation of the proposed project. However, with the implementation of Mitigation Measures HM-1 and HM-3, this impact will be reduce to a level less than significant. In addition to the database search, ERM conducted a review of previous environmental reports, which included a report titled Hazardous Materials Technical Study, National City Downtown Specific Plan, Preliminary Master Environmental Plan, prepared by Ninyo and Moore dated April 6, 2005. This report was included in the Downtown Specific Plan FPEIR. The conclusions and recommendations provided in that report and the FPEIR are relevant to the project site and are summarized in detail in Environmental Review report (Appendix C of this Initial Study). Potential hazardous materials described in the Ninyo and Moore report include the potential presence of PCB contamination at facilities that use hydraulic equipment; several facilities that likely contain underground wastewater systems, such as clarifiers, sumps, grease traps, and floor drains; and the potential presence of lead based paint (LBP) and asbestos containing materials (ACM's) in buildings that were constructed prior to the 1980's. It is speculative at this point to determine if the future development within the project site would expose humans to a significant health hazard due to the presence of hazardous materials. As such, the potential for hazardous materials to exist within the project site is considered a significant impact. However, National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 24 of 42 Mitigation Measures HM-1 through HM-3 derived from the Downtown Specific Plan FPEIR are relevant to the proposed project and would reduce potential hazardous materials impacts associated with future development of the project site. (Sources: 5 and 10) c) No Impact. See discussion under VIII a) above. The proposed project would not emit hazardous emissions or require the handling of hazardous or acutely hazardous materials or substances. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. e) and f) No Impact. The proposed project site is not located within an airport land use plan or within two miles of a public use airport or private airstrip. The San Diego International Airport is the closest airport to the project site and is located approximately seven miles to the northwest. The proposed project will not expose people to excessive noise levels associated with an airport and aircraft noise. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. (Source:1 and 5) g) No Impact. The proposed project would not impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan. All future development plans proposed within the project site would be required to be consistent with the City standards and requirements for emergency response and evacuation. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) h) No Impact. The project site is currently developed with existing residential and light manufacturing uses within a densely urbanized area. There are no wildlands within or adjacent to the project site. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1, 5, and 18) Mitigation Measures: Mitigation Measure HM-1: Prior to the development of any property that was formerly occupied by or adjacent to existing facilities that used or stored hazardous materials, a detailed Phase I Environmental Site Assessment shall be approved by the City of National to evaluate the potential for soil and groundwater contamination. If warranted by the Phase I environmental site assessment, soil and possibly groundwater sampling shall be required. Mitigation Measure HM-2: Asbestos, mercury, and a lead -based paint survey of existing buildings shall be conducted prior to any renovation or demolition activities to the satisfaction of the City. Mitigation Measure HM-3: Prior to issuance of a grading permit for any property where the results of the Phase I, Phase II, and/or asbestos, mercury, or lead -based paint evaluation indicates the presence of these materials or the potential for hazardous materials at levels requiring mitigation, all remedial measures identified in the studies shall be shown on the face of the grading plans and/or incorporated into contractor specifications prior to awarding the construction contract or issuance of a demolition permit, whichever is first. All remedial measures required by law shall be implemented and completed prior to the issuance of grading or building permits, whichever is issued first. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 25 of 42 IX. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Would the project: a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements? b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 0 c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or ❑ ❑ x ❑ area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off -site? d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off -site? e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? g) Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? h) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect flood flows? i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam? j) Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? Discussion: ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 0 a) and f) Less Than Significant. Development within the project area is not anticipated to violate water quality standards or waste discharge requirements due to demolition of existing structures, grading of National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 26 of 42 sites, or construction of new buildings. If demolition and construction of new buildings occur during the winter months when rainfall typically occurs, storm water runoff could carry sediments from the construction sites to the local storm drain system and ultimately the ocean. The city has measures that will be required to be incorporated into all projects during construction and the life of the project to control surface water runoff and minimize sediment being deposited off -site to eliminate the violation of water quality discharge standards. All projects proposed to be developed within the project site will be required to have a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) that includes Best Management Practices (BMP's). The SWPPP will have BMP's that will be installed prior to the start of construction to reduce sediments and other materials from being carried off -site and discharged into the local storm drain system during periods of rainfall and wind. A typical BMP that will be required for most projects are sandbags. Some BMP's will be maintained throughout the project construction period only while other BMP's will be maintained throughout the life of the project. The city will require the installation of BMP's as necessary to mitigate impacts to water quality in compliance with all applicable State and Federal water quality rules and regulations for both the construction and operational period of each project. Future development within the project site will be consistent with the Downtown Specific Plan and is not anticipated to have any significant water quality impacts because all future development within the site will be required to have a SWPPP to mitigate surface water quality impacts (City of National City, 2005). Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 5) b) Less Than Significant. As with the existing Downtown Specific Plan Area, all new development within the project site would be required to connect to the public water distribution system (City of National City, 2005). There are existing water mains in the streets throughout the project site that can provide an adequate supply of water. It is anticipated that the existing water supplies are adequate to provide water for future development within the project site without any significant groundwater supply impacts. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) c) through e) Less Than Significant. The development allowed by the Specific Plan Amendment and the Downtown Specific Plan on the project site is not anticipated to substantially alter the existing drainage patterns, resulting in substantial erosion or siltation. Because the project site is urbanized, new development will not significantly alter the existing topography or change the existing drainage patterns. There are no streams or rivers in or adjacent to the project that would be altered or changed by the proposed project (City of National City, 2005). The proposed project would not directly or indirectly alter any existing drainage patterns or substantially increase erosion or siltation. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) g) and h) No Impact. The project site is not located within a 100-year flood plain. Therefore, the proposed project would not place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area. No impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 5 and 18) i) No Impact. The project site is not located within a dam inundation area and there are no levees that could break allowing the project site to flood. No people or structures will be exposed to significant risk or loss, injury or death due to flooding with the implementation of the proposed project. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. (Source: 5 and 18) National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 'nilial Study - Y<i;;c 27 o1 47 j) No Impact. There are no large bodies of water that could impact the project site due to a seiche or tsuanmi. The project site is relatively flat, thus there are no hillsides that would impact the site due to a mudflow. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. (Source: 5 and 18) X. LAND USE & PLANNING Would the project: a) Physically divide an established community? b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? c) Conflict with an applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan? Discussion: Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ x 0 O 0 0 x a) No Impact. The proposed project is an amendment to a specific plan and would allow for the existing area to be redeveloped with uses such as multi -family residential, office, retail, and hospitality. The proposed project would not divide an established community. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) b) Less Than Significant. The proposed project site is currently developed with several different types of uses and structures including light manufacturing, a church, residences, warehouse, garage, and a store. The project site is surrounded by urban uses as well, including the police station to the north, commercial uses to the south, residential and commercial uses to the west, and residential and retail uses to the east. The project site is bordered by Civic Center Drive to the north, Roosevelt Avenue to the west, and 16th Street to the south. New development within proposed Development Zone 12B would not physically divide an established community. The existing General Plan/Zoning designation of Residential, Light Manufacturing (MLR) allows for the continuation and establishment of low intensity industrial uses while protecting existing residential and institutional uses from potentially incompatible industrial development. The MLR regulations include a maximum FAR of 2:1 for non-residential uses, and a minimum 5,000 lot size for single family residential uses. The project site is located immediately adjacent to the boundary of the City's Downtown Specific Plan Area. The Downtown Specific Plan was adopted by the City in 2005, and provides a comprehensive set of plans, guidelines, and regulations that will guide future development in the City's Downtown Area. The Downtown Specific Plan boundary would be expanded to incorporate the three half -blocks located east of Roosevelt Avenue, south of Civic Center Drive, and north of 16th Street (the project site). Figure 3 depicts the location of the existing Downtown Specific Plan boundary and the area that will be incorporated into the Specific Plan. The addition of the three half -blocks to the Downtown Specific Plan boundary would add 3.69 acres to the Downtown Specific Plan; for a total Specific Plan area of approximately 137 acres. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 28 of 42 The proposed Development Zone 12B would allow for mid -rise multifamily residential, street -oriented retail, office, or hospitality. The proposed Development Zone 12B would have the attributes of the immediately adjacent Development Zone 12; however, the maximum floor area ratio (F.A.R.) would be 4:1 (instead of 5:1 as allowed in Development Zone 12A), and the maximum building height would be 65 feet (instead of 90 feet as allowed in Development Zone 12B). Development Zone 12, located on the eastern half of the three blocks, allows for mixed uses including multi -family residential, retail, office, and hospitality. Development Zone 12 has a maximum FAR of 5:1 (0.5) and maximum building height of 90-feet. This area would be redesignated Development Zone 12A in order to differentiate it from the proposed Development Zone 12B. The following are specific design guidelines for the proposed Development Zone 12B that are consistent with the City of National City General Plan: • Parking shall be underground, "encapsulated" within the development site or in structures adjacent to these sites to the west. Placement of parking areas, blank walls or service areas along Roosevelt Avenue is prohibited. • Where full -block developments are proposed, a breakdown of building massing and significant articulation of dwelling units should be employed to avoid a monolithic, institutional appearance. As with the Downtown Specific Plan, the proposed project will conform to all the policies of the General Plan in terms of promoting sensible infill development and transitioning between residential and commercial uses. The proposed project does not conflict with any land use policies of the General Plan. The proposed project will have positive impacts by encouraging the private community, City, and Community Development Commission to upgrade and improve the physical appearance of the project site. The adoption of the Specific Plan Amendment will not have any significant direct land use impacts based on the land use threshold criteria. At the time when future private and public development projects are submitted for approval, the City will evaluate the projects for potential land use impacts and compliance with the Downtown Specific Plan (i.e., consistency review). Furthermore, the existing multi- family apartment buildings project proposed for development within the project is in conformity with the Specific Plan Amendment. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6) c) No Impact. The project site is currently development with existing residential and light manufacturing uses within an urbanized area. The project site is not located with in an area under the jurisdiction of a habitat conservation plan area. As such, the proposed project would not conflict with any habitat conservation or natural community conservation plan. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) XI. MINERAL RESOURCES Would the project: a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally -important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ x x National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 29 of 42 Discussion: a) and b) No Impact. The project site is currently developed with residential and industrial uses within in an urbanized area. There are no known mineral resources on the proposed project site or delineated on a local plan for the site. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) XII. NOISE Would the project result in: a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated ❑ x ❑ ❑ b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive ❑ groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in ❑ the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient ❑ noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? Discussion: x x x ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ ❑ x a) through d) Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The following information is summarized from the Acoustical Site Assessment prepared for the proposed project by Investigative Science and Engineering, Inc. (ISE), dated January 27, 2010. This report is provided as Appendix E of this Initial Study. Environmental Significance Thresholds California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Thresholds The minimum change in sound level that the human ear can detect is approximately 3-dBA. This increment, 3-dBA, is commonly accepted under CEQA as representing the point at which a noise level increase would represent a significant impact. This impact threshold is accepted by the City of National City, and will be used as the significance threshold to determine the proposed project's impact on the affected (existing) environment. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 30 of 42 City of National City Construction Noise Ordinance Construction and demolition activities with the City of National City are governed under Section 12.10.160 of the City's municipal code (Ord. 2188 §2, 2001). The applicable standards are summarized in the Acoustical Site Assessment report. For purposes of the analysis in the Acoustical Site Assessment report, construction operations at the project site will be deemed in compliance if the 85 dBA LMax noise contour does not touch the closest semi -residential or commercial receptor area. National City Noise Element The City of National City through its Noise Element of the General Plan has established criteria for compatibility of noise for various land uses. Sound levels up to 60 dBA Ldn are considered compatible with outdoor sensitive land uses (ie., residential rear yards, etc.). This standard would apply to all transportation sources identified within the City. National City Noise Ordinance The City of National City Noise Ordinance, Section 12.06.040, governs fixed operational noise within the proposed development area, and its impact potential to surrounding uses. The applicable requirement is a function of the time -of -day and land use zone. Table 1 of the Acoustical Site Assessment report summarizes those requirements. State of California CCR Title 24 Noise Insulation Standards The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 24, Noise Insulation Standards, states that multi -family dwellings, hotels, and motels located where the CNEL exceeds 60 dBA, must obtain an acoustical analysis showing that the proposed design will limit interior noise to less than 45 dBA CNEL for sensitive residential uses. The City of National City has adopted the CCR Title 24 standards. These standards would be applicable to all multifamily and (discretionary) office space within the proposed project site. Existing Conditions Survey Three noise -monitoring locations were selected at the project site for the purpose of determining the ambient daytime baseline site conditions. The instrumentation locations denoted as Monitoring Locations ML 1 through ML 3, are shown in Figure 5 of the Acoustical Site Assessment report. Measurements at all three locations were taken on January 13, 2010, between 11:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., with normal traffic flow conditions in the vicinity of the project site. Ambient Sound Measurement Results The results of the sound level monitoring conducted throughout the project site are provided in Table 2 of the Acoustical Site Assessment. Measurements collected reflect typical ambient community noise levels consistent with the observed community setting. The hourly average sound level recorded over the monitoring period was found to range between 55 and 61 dBA. The dominant noise source in all cases was observed to be traffic noise from nearby and adjacent surface streets. Maximum sound levels were in all cases observed to be due to single automobile events. Construction Noise Emission Levels The estimated construction equipment emissions are provided in Table 3 of the Acoustical Site Assessment for the anticipated major construction grading operations expected at the project site. Construction within the project site would typically occur between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, in accordance with City operational requirements. The nearest sensitive receptor capable of housing a residential type sensitive land use would be approximately 100-feet from the construction centriod of the project site. As can be seen in Table 3 of the Acoustical Site Assessment, predicted maximum construction noise levels could be as high as 79.3 dBA LMax at 50-feet and 73.3 dBA LMax at 100-feet assuming all activities occurred in a single condensed area (a highly unlikely, but worst -case condition). This level is far below the City's 85 dBA LMax noise abatement threshold for the current and proposed land uses observed and is National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Irilliil] Shady - I ot -L not expected to generate impact nor require mitigation. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. However, to further ensure that all future construction of individual projects within the project comply with the City's Noise Ordinance, and are consistent with the Downtown Specific Plan FPEIR, Mitigation Measure N-1 shall be implemented. Future Traffic Noise Impacts The results showing the effect of traffic noise increases on the various servicing roadway segments associated with the proposed project are provided in Tables 4a through 4d of the Acoustical Site Assessment. For each roadway segment examined, the worst case average daily traffic volume and observed/predicted speeds are shown, along with the corresponding reference noise level at 50-feet (in dBA). Additionally, the line -of -sight distance from the roadway centerline to the 60 dBA CNEL contours are provided as an indication of the worst -case unobstructed theoretical traffic noise contour placement. As can be seen from the tables, future cumulative traffic noise levels are expected to increase by a worst case 6.0 dBA along Plaza Boulevard between National City Boulevard and B Avenue, due to ultimate build out in the area. The project contribution to this level would be negligible under this condition. The maximum project contribution would occur along Roosevelt Avenue, between Civic Center Drive and 16th Street, with a cumulative project contribution of 1.4 dBA. This increase is not considered a significant impact. In addition, future development within the project site would be exposed to noise levels in excess of the CCR Title 24 threshold of 60 dBA CNEL (as can be see in Table 4c of the Acoustical Site Assessment) and would require mitigation consistent with the intent of this code. Therefore, a significant impact is identified for this issue area; however, with the implementation of Mitigation Measure N-1, this impact will be reduced to a level less than significant. (Sources: 1, 5, and 11) e) and f) No Impact. The proposed project site is not located within an airport land use plan or within two miles of a public use airport or private airstrip. The San Diego International Airport is the closest airport to the project site and is located approximately seven miles to the northwest. The proposed project will not expose people to excessive noise levels associated with an airport and aircraft noise. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) Mitigation Measures: Mitigation Measure N-1: To ensure that construction activities comply with the City's Noise Ordinance, a Construction Noise Abatement Plan shall be prepared for each construction project and submitted to the City prior to the issuance of demolition, grading or building permits, whichever is issued first. The Plan shall describe the construction activities, equipment required for those activities, and noise level generation characteristics of the equipment to be used. Noise levels at the closest residential use shall be predicted. If projected noise levels will exceed the Noise Ordinance limits, measures to reduce those levels to comply with the Noise Ordinance shall be described and implemented. Mitigation Measure N-2: The structure compliance of all future development within the Specific Plan Amendment area would be required to demonstrate a closed -window interior noise level of 45 dBA CNEL for all residential sensitive use areas. Office space mitigation would be at the discretion of the City of National City. Given this, a separate architectural acoustical assessment shall be completed for each proposed project within the project site, prior to issuance of any building permits for the residential aspects of any future development projects. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 32 of 42 XIII. POPULATION & HOUSING Would the project: a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? Discussion: Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated ❑ ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ a) through c) No Impact. The proposed project will allow an increase in the number of residential units that can be constructed in the project site beyond the number currently contemplated by the General Plan. An increase in the number of housing units that can be provided to the residents of National City will allow the City to provide a range of housing types toward meeting more of the housing needs of the community. The proposed specific plan amendment will require the City to adjust its housing and population projections to reflect the increase in the number of residential units. The proposed project will not require a displacement of a large number of people, rather it will allow construction of increased housing units to meet some of the current housing need in National City. Furthermore, this increase would be compatible with housing densities contemplated in the Downtown Specific Plan and Westside Specific Plan for this area. Future development of the project site would be served by existing roadways. The project site would be served by infrastructure available to the site, and as is anticipated to be improved in accordance with the Downtown Specific Plan Utilities Impact Report (November 2006). No impacts are expected from the increased density of the project. Therefore, no impact to population and housing is identified. (Sources: 5 and 13) XIV. PUBLIC SERVICES a) Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services: Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 33 of 42 Fire protection? Police protection? Schools? Parks? Other public facilities? Discussion: ❑ x ❑ ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ ❑ x ❑ a) Fire and Police Protection: Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Similar to the Downtown Specific Plan, the proposed project is anticipated to encourage development and increase the need for police and fire protection services. Additional service demands for police and fire protection could impact the Police and Fire Departments, which is considered a significant impact. However, with the implementation of Mitigation Measures PS-1 and PS-2, which are consistent with the Downtown Specific Plan FPEIR, any future development plans will be required to be reviewed by the Police and Fire Departments at the time they are submitted to the City for review. As such, the implementation of Mitigation Measures PS-1 and PS-2 will reduce impacts related to police and fire protection to a level less than significant. (Sources: 1 and 5) School Facilities: Less Than Significant The proposed project should have a significant impact on public schools due to an increase in the population within the project site. An increase in population could increase the number of students that will attend area schools. The payment of developer impact fees as allowed by state law prior to the issuance of building permits for future development projects will mitigate the impact due to the generation of additional students that will be generated by new development within the project site. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. (Source: 1 and 5) Parks: Less Than Significant As discussed in XV. Recreation, below, a less than significant impact to park facilities is identified with the implementation of the proposed project. (Sources: 1 and 5) Other Public Facilities: Less Than Significant At the time building permits are submitted to the City for approval of future development projects within the project site, the City may require the developer to pay developer impact fees for other public facilities. With the payment of any required developer impact fees required by the City of National City, potential impacts to other public facilities will be reduced to a level less than significant. (Sources: 1 and 5) Mitigation Measures: Mitigation Measure PS-1: Police Protection The Police Department shall review all future development projects for police protection impacts and ensure that additional police personnel and/or equipment are provided to provide acceptable level of police protection services deemed acceptable by the National City Police Department prior to issuance of building permits. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 34 of 42 Mitigation Measure PS-2: Fire Protection The Fire Department shall review all future development projects for fire protection impacts and ensure that additional fire personnel and/or equipment are provided to provide acceptable level of fire protection services deemed acceptable by the National City Fire Department prior to issuance of building permits. XV. RECREATION a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? Discussion: Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated ❑ ❑ x 0 ❑ ❑ x ❑ a) and b) Less Than Significant. Based on the thresholds criteria, the adoption and implementation of the proposed project will not result in any significant park or recreational impacts. Consistent with the Downtown Specific Plan FPEIR, the City of National City will collect a fee for each new residential unit constructed within the project site. The monies will be used to upgrade or provide additional recreation facilities as needed and the park fee will mitigate the impacts of the project on park and recreational services. There are no activities associated with the proposed project that will reduce or eliminate existing park and recreational facilities. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) XVI. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC Would the project: a) Conflict with an applicable plan, ordinance or policy establishing measures of effectiveness for the performance of the circulation system, taking into account all modes of transportation including mass transit and non -motorized travel and relevant components of the circulation system, including but not limited to intersections, streets, highways and freeways, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and mass transit? b) Conflict with an applicable congestion management program, including but not limited to level of service standards and travel demand measures, or other standards established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated ❑ x ❑ ❑ x ❑ 0 0 National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Sind - I-'<a;;cnI 42 c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either an 0 0 0 x increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks? d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? e) Result in inadequate emergency access? ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ f) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs regarding 0 0 0 x public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance or safety of such facilities? Discussion: a) and b) Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The following information is summarized from the Traffic Impact Analysis prepared for the proposed project by LOS Engineering, Inc., dated December 18, 2009. This report is provided as Appendix F of this Initial Study. Significance Criteria A project is considered to cause a significant impact if the new project traffic decreases the operations on the surrounding roadways by the City of National City defined thresholds as shown in Table 1 below. If a significant impact is calculated due to the addition of project traffic, then a feasible mitigation is required to return the impact to LOS D. Otherwise the impact may be considered significant and unmitigated. TABLE 1 - City of National City Impact Significant Thresholds (Based on Santec Guidelines) Level of Service with Project Allowable Increase Due to Project Impacts Freeways Intersections Ramp Metering V/C Delay (sec.) Delay (min.) E & F 0.01 2 2* Source: LOS Engineering, Inc., 2009. Note: = The impact is only considered significant if the total delay exceeds 15 minutes; Delay = Average stopped delay per vehicle measured in seconds; V/C = Volume to Capacity Ratio. Existing Traffic Conditions Please refer to Sections 3.1 and 3.2 of the Traffic Impact Analysis in Appendix F for a detailed description of the existing traffic conditions. The existing AM, PM, and daily volumes are provided in Figure 4a and 4b of the Traffic Impact Analysis. The LOS calculated for the intersections is provided in Table 5 of the Traffic Impact Analysis with daily roadway segments provided in Table 6 of the Traffic Impact Analysis. The arterial operations are provided in Table 7 of the Traffic Impact Analysis. Under existing conditions, all of the study roadways were calculated to operate at LOS D or better except for Civic Center Drive from Hoover Avenue to Roosevelt Avenue and from Roosevelt Avenue to National City Boulevard. Existing Transit Services The Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) provides bus service on National City Boulevard as bus route 932. Several other bus routes also run through National City and are reasonably close to the project site. A MTS map shown transit service in National City is included in Appendix E of the Traffic Impact National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 36 of 42 Analysis. The project traffic generation was not reduced to account for existing mass transit available near the project site. The potential transit capture rate for such a project is unknown at this time. Proposed Project Project Traffic Generation The project traffic generation was calculated using SANDAG traffic rates. The higher intensity land uses are calculated to generate a net increase of 2,873 ADT with 153 AM peak hour trips (24 inbound and 129 outbound), 270 PM peak hour trips (188 inbound and 82 outbound) as shown in Table 8 of the Traffic Impact Analysis. Project Access Project access is anticipated along Roosevelt Avenue; however, details of the exact locations will only become available as development is proposed and submitted to the City for review. Project Distribution and Assignment Project traffic was distributed to the adjacent roadway network based on a Series 11 SANDAG Select Zone Assignment (SZA). Distribution adjustments were made to the SZA based on direction from National City engineering staff and accounted for the planned closure of West Avenue by 2030, thus no project traffic was assigned to West Avenue. The project distribution is shown in Figures 5a and 5b of the Traffic Impact Analysis, with the project assignment is shown in Figures 6a and 6b of the Traffic Impact Analysis. Horizon Year 2030 Conditions The horizon year 2030 scenario is based on volumes provided by National City staff from the Draft Westside Specific Plan, which includes the Westside Specific Plan redevelopment traffic volumes. The peak hour intersection volumes and daily traffic volumes are shown in Figures 7a and 7b of the Traffic Impact Analysis. Intersections LOS are provided in Table 9 of the Traffic Impact Analysis, with daily roadway segments are provided in Table 10 of the Traffic Impact Analysis. The arterial operations are provided in Table 11 of the Traffic Impact Analysis. Under horizon year 2030 conditions, all of the study roadways were calculated to operate at LOS D or better with the exception of the following: • Intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 Northbound on -ramp (LOS F AM and PM); • Segment of 8th Street from Hoover Avenue to Roosevelt Avenue (LOS E); • Segment 18th Street from National City Boulevard to B Avenue (LOS F); • Segment Civic Center Drive from Harbor Drive to Wilson Avenue (LOS F); • Segment Civic Center Drive from Wilson Avenue to Roosevelt Avenue (LOS F); • Segment Civic Center Drive from Roosevelt Avenue to National City Boulevard (LOS F); • Segment Plaza Boulevard from Hoover Avenue to Roosevelt Avenue (LOS F); • Segment Plaza Boulevard from National City Boulevard to B Avenue (LOS F); • Segment Roosevelt Avenue from 8th Street to Plaza Boulevard (LOS F); and, • Segment of Roosevelt Avenue from Plaza Boulevard to Civic Center (LOS E). Horizon Year 2030 with Project Conditions This scenario accounts for the addition of project traffic onto horizon year 2030 traffic for AM, PM and daily conditions. The peak hour intersection volumes and daily traffic volumes are shown in Figures 8a and 8b of the Traffic Impact Analysis. Intersection LOS is provided in Table 12 of the Traffic Impact Analysis, with daily roadway segments provided in Table 13 of the Traffic Impact Analysis. The arterial operations are provided in Table 14 of the Traffic Impact Analysis. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Inilllli St.uie - 7 of 42 Under horizon year 2030 with project conditions, all of the study roadways were calculated to operate at LOS D or better with the exception of: • Intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 Northbound on -ramp (LOS F AM and PM); • Segment of 8th Street from Hoover Avenue to Roosevelt Avenue (LOS E); • Segment 18th Street from National City Boulevard to B Avenue (LOS F); • Segment Civic Center Drive from Harbor Drive to Wilson Avenue (LOS F); • Segment Civic Center Drive from Wilson Avenue to Roosevelt Avenue (LOS F); • Segment Civic Center Drive from Roosevelt Avenue to National City Boulevard (LOS F); • Segment Plaza Boulevard from Hoover Avenue to Roosevelt Avenue (LOS F); • Segment Plaza Boulevard from National City Boulevard to B Avenue (LOS F); • Segment Roosevelt Avenue from 8th Street to Plaza Boulevard (LOS F); and, • Segment of Roosevelt Avenue from Plaza Boulevard to Civic Center (LOS E). The proposed project is calculated with one horizon year significant impact at the intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NB on -ramp due to the addition of more than two (2) seconds of delay. However, with implementation of Mitigation Measure T-1, this impact will be reduced to a level less than significant. (Sources: 5 and 12) c) No Impact. The proposed project will allow uses such as multi -family residential, retail, office and hospitality. Such uses will not change any air traffic patterns that may exist in the vicinity of the project site and no new substantial risks would be introduced. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) d) No Impact. At this point it is uncertain if the existing surrounding circulation network would change with future development within the project site. However, as specific development projects are proposed for this area, the City of National City will review all plans and ensure that all projects are designed to include features that would not increase roadway hazards. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) e) No Impact. The proposed project would not change emergency access to the site. Any future development projects proposed for the project site would be required to be designed to include adequate emergency access pursuant to the California Code of Regulations. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) f) No Impact. Although no specific development projects, other than the two apartment buildings, are proposed for the project site at this time, all future proposed development projects would be required to be consistent with all existing public transit, pedestrian and bicycle plans. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) Mitigation Measures: Mitigation Measure T-1: Intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NB on -ramp As part of the Trade Corridor Improvement Fund (TCIF) Port Access Improvements Project for the intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NB on -ramp, Caltans has prepared a Project Report and traffic analysis which indicates capacity improvements and a new signal for the intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NB on -ramp, to be constructed in the near -term. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study ,1 --I_ XVII. UTILITIES & SERVICE SYSTEMS Would the project: a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board? b) Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? c) Require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated ❑ x 0 0 ❑ x 0 0 ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ x ❑ ❑ e) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment 0 x 0 0 provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project's projected demand in addition to the provider's existing commitments? f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs? g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste? Discussion: ❑ ❑ x 0 ❑ ❑ x 0 a) and e) Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. As discussed in more detail below, with the implementation of Mitigation Measure U-1 and compliance with the Downtown Specific Plan Utilities Impact Report, impacts related to wastewater will be reduced to a level less than significant. b) and d) Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. As discussed in more detail below, with the implementation of Mitigation Measures U-2 and U-3 and compliance with the Downtown Specific Plan Utilities Impact Report, impacts related to water will be reduced to a level less than significant. The project proposes to increase the amount of development within the project site, which will impact the existing utility services that currently serve the project site. A Downtown Specific Plan Utilities Impact Report was prepared by Infrastructure Engineering Corporation, dated November 2006, which includes the proposed project site and a level of development consistent with the level proposed in Development Zone 12B. The purpose of the Utilities Impact Report was to determine potential impacts that the Downtown Specific Plan will have upon wastewater, water, natural gas and electric facilities. Wastewater Wastewater service within the project site is provided by the National City Public Works Department. The proposed project would increase the amount of development within the project site, which will impact the National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 39 of 42 existing wastewater system that serves the project site. As discussed in the Utilities Impact Report for the Downtown Specific Plan, which included the proposed project in its analysis, the proposed project along with the Downtown Specific Plan will impact the existing wastewater system and the system that serves the area would need to be upgraded to serve future sewage flows if they cannot be handled by the existing facilities. The Utilities Impact Report identifies specific wastewater system upgrades for the area. The construction of upgrades to the wastewater system could have construction impacts, which will have to be specifically identified at the time sewer improvement plans are submitted for approval. With the implementation of Mitigation Measure U-1, which was derived from the Downtown Specific Plan FPEIR, and compliance with the Utilities Impact Report, potential wastewater impacts associated with future development within the project site will be reduced to a level less than significant. Water Water service within the project site is provided by the Sweetwater Water Authority. Similar to wastewater services the proposed project proposes to increase the amount of development within the project site, which may increase the demand for water service. As discussed in the Utilities Impact Report for the Downtown Specific Plan, the proposed project along with the Downtown Specific Plan will impact existing water services and would require the need for additional water and upgraded facilities, which is considered a significant impact. However, with the implementation of Mitigation Measures U-2 and U-3, which were derived from the Downtown Specific Plan FPEIR, and compliance with the Utilities Impact Report, potential impacts to water service will be reduced to a level less than significant. (Sources: 1, 5, and 13) c) Less Than Significant. As discussed above under Section IX. Hydrology and Water Quality c) through e), implementation of the proposed project will not alter existing drainage patterns of the project site and would not require the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) f) and g) Less Than Significant. The proposed project will allow for increase amount of development to occur within the project site that would generate additional solid waste that would need to be taken to a local landfill. However, local landfills that serve the City of National City have enough capacity to receive the additional solid waste from the proposed project. Therefore, a less than significant impact is identified for this issue area. (Sources: 1 and 5) Mitigation Measures: Mitigation Measure U-1: Wastewater All development projects within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment area shall be reviewed by the National City Public Works Department to make sure that adequate wastewater facilities will be available to serve the project. If the Public Works Department determines the existing wastewater facilities as not adequate the project developer shall construct the facilities necessary to the satisfaction of the City Engineer prior to issuance of occupancy permits. Mitigation Measure U-2: Water All water utility plans shall be approved by the Sweetwater Authority to ensure that adequate water service is provided to the development. Mitigation Measure U-3: Water The City shall require the incorporation of all state mandated water conservation measures. The City shall also require the additional incorporation, as applicable, of water conservation measures including water efficient dishwashers, water pressure reducing valves, hot water pipe insulation, and hot water on - demand units as applicable. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 40 of 42 XVIII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects)? c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? Discussion: Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact Incorporated O x 0 O x 0 0 0 O 0 0 x a) Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The project site is currently developed with existing residential and industrial uses within an urbanized area. Implementation of the proposed project would not degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish and wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plants or animals or eliminate the important examples of major periods of California history or prehistory. As discussed in detail in Section IV, Biological Resources, the proposed project will not result in any significant impacts to biological resources because there are no rare, threatened, endangered, endemic, or sensitive plant or wildlife species within the project site. As discussed in detail in Section V, Cultural Resources, six buildings within the project site have the potential to be historical buildings, which is considered a significant impact. However, with the implementation of Mitigation Measure CR-1, this impact will be reduced to a level less than significant. b) Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. As discussed in detail in Section VII, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, the proposed project has the potential to result in cumulative impacts associated with Greenhouse Gas Emissions; however, with the implementation of Mitigation Measure GHG-1, this impact will be reduced to a level less than significant. c) No Impact. The proposed project is located within an urbanized area and would not result in potential impacts to the health or well-being of human beings either directly or indirectly. Therefore, no impact is identified for this issue area. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 41 of 42 REFERENCE SOURCES: Reference # Document Title Available for Review at: 1 National City General Plan and Land Use Code National City Planning Div. or www.nationalcityca.gov 2 City of National City Municipal Code National City Planning Div. 3 City of National City Design Guidelines National City Planning Div. or www.nationalcityca.gov.. 4 National City Downtown Specific Plan dated February 2005 National City Planning Div. 5 Downtown Specific Plan Final Program Environmental Report dated February 2005 National City Planning Div. 6 15th Street and Roosevelt Avenue Project Plans (2008- 42 Cons. Review and 2008-41 Cons. Review) National City Planning Div. 7 Air Quality Conformity Assessment Downtown Specific Plan Amendment, prepared by Investigative Science and Engineering, Inc., dated January 26, 2010 National City Planning Div. 8 Cultural and Historical Resource Survey for the National City Specific Plan Amendment, prepared by ASM Affiliates, dated April 2, 2009 National City Planning Div. 9 Greenhouse Gas/Global Warming Risk Assessment Downtown Specific Plan Amendment, prepared by Investigative Science and Engineering, Inc., dated January 26, 2010 National City Planning Div. 10 Environmental Review National City SPA 2005-3, prepared by Environmental Resources Management, dated April 2009 National City Planning Div. 11 Acoustical Site Assessment Downtown Specific Plan Amendment prepared by Investigative Science and Engineering, Inc., dated January 27, 2010 National City Planning Div. 12 National City Specific Plan Amendment Traffic Impact Analysis prepared by LOS Engineering, Inc., dated December 18, 2009 National City Planning Div. 13 Downtown Specific Plan Utilities Impact Report prepared by Infrastructure Engineering Corporation, dated November 2006 National City Planning Div. or www.nationalcityca.gov. 14 California Department of Conservation, Division of Land Resource Protection, 2006. Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program, 2006. GIS data obtained by BRG Consulting, Inc. 15 2007 California Building Code, Title 24 Part 2 National City Building Dept. 16 California Division of Mines & Geology, Geology of National City, Imperial Beach, and Otay Mesa Quadrangles, Southern San Diego Metropolitan Area, California, 1977 www.conservation.ca.gov and BRG Consulting, Inc. 17 Demere, Thomas A. and Walsh, Stephen L., 1993. Paleontological Resources of County of San Diego, California. Department of Paleontology San Diego Natural History Museum. BRG Consulting, Inc. 18 SanGIS data 2009. www.sandag.org National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 Initial Study - Page 42 of 42 19 Historical Building Evaluation of Assessor Parcels 560- 064-01, 560-064-02, 560-064-04 and 560-064-05, for the City of National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment (SP-2005-3) prepared by ASM Affiliates, Inc., June 7, 2010. National City Planning Div. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment November 2010 DEVELOPMENT SCENARIO 2 -12B - "FULL BUILDOUT SCHEME" - F.A.R. 4:1, 65' HEIGHT LIMIT 12A- F.A.R. 5:1 (NOT SHOWN), 90' HEIGHT LIMIT T� 1< I I''' >\ \\ i i �� - I 1 KI �� > � �r41. - I RI`\ee " 1 I \ .RICO *'fr I -1C�\ 1 \ \\ S \ �� ,, S�� \\Y�� 1 OJQ C>� vO� ti l OJQ 5 2 PARCEL GROUP GROSS AREA APPLIED F.A.R. MAX. BLDG. FLOOR AREA D.U.S (950 sf / d.u. ') 50% 1 BEDROOM / 50% 2 BEDROOM MIX REQ. PARKING Sp. PER TABLE REQ. PARKING AREA (180 sf/Sp.) PARCEL GROUP 1-1 11,194 sf 2.71:1 30,325 sf 25' PARCEL GROUP 1-2 6,752 sf 4:1 27,007 sf 28 (14) 1-BD / (14) 2-BD 31 5580 sf PARCEL GROUP 1-3 10,410 sf 2.41:1 25,038 sf 20' PARCEL GROUP 2 28,444 sf 4:1 113,778 sf 119 (59) 1-BD / (60) 2-BD 131 23,580 sf PARCEL GROUP 3 28,183 sf 4:1 112,733 sf 118 (59) 1-BD / (59) 2-BD 130 23,400 sf ' 950 sf / 1 d.u. calculation does not apply PARKING REQUIREMENT TABLE RESIDENTIAL 1 BDRM 1 2 BDRM 1.2 NON-RESIDENTIAL PER 1000sf 2.5 SOURCE: BRG Consulting, Inc., 2010 B BRG CONSULTING. INC. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Development Standards Applied to Massing Models 7/20/10 FIGURE 1 F:\projects\861 Cily of Nalional City \Draft SPA MND\ gure 1 Developrnenl Standerds.ci SOURCE: BRG Consulting, Inc., 2010 B BRG CONSULTING, INC. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Potential Building Massing Simulation - Northwest View 7/14/10 FIGURE 2 F:\projects\861 City of Notional City \Draft SPA MND\Figure 2 Potential Building Massing Simulation NW View.ai SOURCE: BRG Consulting, Inc., 2010 B 1:0. . BRG CONSULTING, INC. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Potential Building Massing Simulation - Southeast View 7/14/10 FIGURE 3 F:\projects\861 City of National City\Draft SPA MND\Figure 3 Potential Building Massing Simulation SE View.ai SECTION A-1 4:1 MAXIMUM F.A.R., 65' HEIGHT LIMIT, 12' FLOORS - "CASTLE" STYLE 100 — ELEVATION, IN FEET 50 WESINDESPECIFICPUN Vu lit/ FLOOR FLFL FiREFFLOO CO 0 +0 ROOSEVELT ST.i r w.00ms.r i NATIONAL CITY BLVD. +100 +200 HORIZONTAL DISTANCE, IN FEET +300 +400 FLOOR HEIGHT (FT.) USABLE AREA (SF) CUMULATIVE AREA (SF) REALIZED 4:1 F.A.R. POTENTIAL FOURTH FLOOR 53 7,200 80,100 70% THIRD FLOOR 41 24,300 72,900 SECOND FLOOR 29 24,300 48,600 FIRST FLOOR 17 24,300 24,300 GARAGE LEVEL 0 26,900 PARKING SECTION A-2 4:1 MAXIMUM F.A.R., 65' HEIGHT LIMIT, 12' FLOORS -"MODULE" STYLE 100 ELEVATION IN FEET 50 i — t WESTSIDESPECIFIOPLUI .i .m.141,00.13 mucncx •,0.00m9.r FLOOR •filLOC THROFLOOR ROOR RSTPLCOR r .90.001.11,1 ROOSEVELT ST.I L I J NATIONAL CITY BLVD. +0 +100 +200 HORIZONTAL DISTANCE, IN FEET +300 +400 FLOOR HEIGHT (FT.) USABLE AREA (SF) CUMULATIVE AREA (SF) REALIZED 4:1 F.A.R. POTENTIAL FOURTH FLOOR 53 21,687 86,748 75% THIRD FLOOR 41 21,687 65,061 SECOND FLOOR 29 21,687 43,374 FIRST FLOOR 17 21,687 21,687 GARAGE LEVEL 0 26,900 PARKING SOURCE: BRG Consulting, Inc., 2010 B BRG CONSULTING. INC. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Cross -Sections 7/14/10 FIGURE 4 F:\projects\861 City of National City \Craft S A MND\Figure 4 Cross-SCctions.ci SECTION B-1 4:1 MAXIMUM F.A.R., 65' HEIGHT LIMIT, 10' FLOORS - "STAGGERED" STYLE 100 — .crux \I, i,i r HOCK LE .ETroo..wx ELEVATION, IN FEET 50 - I - I D +0 WIN FLOOR •SEOR ,nnx. x..O PL MOM FLOOR ...DV ESISSINOCCEASTROCGON AGEOCEFEL ROOSEVELT ST. L .e000mrn NATIONAL CITY I— BLVD. +100 +200 HORIZONTAL DISTANCE, IN FEET +300 +400 FLOOR HEIGHT (FT.) USABLE AREA (SF) CUMULATIVE AREA (SF) REALIZED 4:1 F.A.R. POTENTIAL FIFTH FLOOR 55 9,824 95,498 83% FOURTH FLOOR 45 16,474 85,674 THIRD FLOOR 35 20,600 69,200 SECOND FLOOR 25 24,300 48,600 FIRST FLOOR 15 24,300 24,300 GARAGE LEVEL 0 26,900 PARKING SECTION B-2 4:1 MAXIMUM F.A.R-, 65' HEIGHT LIMIT, 10' FLOORS -"COLONY" STYLE 100 ELEVATION, IN FEET 50 EMMEL ucnox -T 'G — +y awmo+ I L ASSOC. FOURTH FL Al ROOSEVELT ST. ROFLOO rASISOGRAI L NATIONAL CITY BLVD. +0 +100 +200 HORIZONTAL DISTANCE, IN FEET +300 +400 FLOOR HEIGHT (FT.) USABLE AREA (SF) CUMULATIVE AREA (SF) REALIZED 4:1 F.A.R. POTENTIAL FIFTH FLOOR 55 20,212 101,060 87% FOURTH FLOOR 45 20,212 80,848 THIRD FLOOR 35 20,212 60,636 SECOND FLOOR 25 20,212 40,424 FIRST FLOOR 15 20,212 20,212 GARAGE LEVEL 0 26,962 PARKING SOURCE: BRG Consulting, Inc., 2010 B BRG CONSULTING. INC. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Cross -Sections 7/14/10 FIGURE 5 F:\projects\861 Cily of National Cily \Croft S A NAND \Figure 5 Cro5s-Sec5ons.ci Attachment A Project Description Prepared by BRG Consulting, Inc. November 2010 Attachment A - Project Description 1 .0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 1.1 Site Location and Description The proposed project site is located in the City of National City, in San Diego County. National City is a coastal city bordered to the north and east by the City of San Diego, to the south by the City of Chula Vista, and to the west by the City of San Diego and the San Diego Bay. The project site is located approximately 1/3 mile east of Interstate 5. Figure 1 depicts the location of the project site in a regional perspective, as well as in the context of the local circulation system. The site is located south of Civic Center Drive, north of 16th Street, east of Roosevelt Avenue, and west of National City Boulevard. The project site comprises 13 parcels, consisting of three half -blocks and totaling 3.69 acres. The project site is currently developed with light manufacturing, institutional, and residential uses. Similar uses currently surround the site. Figure 2 provides an aerial photograph of the project site and surrounding land uses. The project site is located immediately adjacent to the boundary of the City's Downtown Specific Plan Area. The Downtown Specific Plan was adopted by the City in 2005, and provides a comprehensive set of plans, guidelines, and regulations that will guide future development in the City's Downtown Area. 1.2 Project Characteristics The project consists of two primary components: 1) an amendment to the Downtown Specific Plan; and, 2) a proposed residential development within one half -block portion the project site. 1.2.1 Downtown Specific Plan Amendment The Downtown Specific Plan Amendment involves two primary components as described in detail below: 1. Downtown Specific Plan Boundary Amendment. The Downtown Specific Plan boundary would be expanded to incorporate the three half -blocks located east of Roosevelt Avenue, south of Civic Center Drive, and north of 16th Street (the project site). Figure 3 depicts the location of the existing Downtown Specific Plan boundary and the area that will be incorporated into the Specific Plan. The addition of the three half -blocks to the Downtown Specific Plan boundary would add 3.69 acres to the Downtown Specific Plan; for a total Specific Plan area of approximately 137 acres. 2. Downtown Specific Plan Development Zone 12 Amendment. The currently adopted Downtown Specific Plan designates the area immediately east of the project site as "Development Zone 12." As part the proposed Specific Plan Amendment, Development Zone 12 would be bifurcated into two distinct zones - Development Zone 12A and Development Zone 12B. The new Development Zone 12A would simply be a relabeling of the existing Development Zone 12 (no new regulations or modified regulations as they are currently adopted for Development Zone 12A are proposed). The newly created Development Zone 12B would apply to the proposed project site (new area to be incorporated into the Specific Plan boundary). National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment 1-1 November 2010 Case No 2010-23 SPA, IS Camp Pendleton CARLSBAD SOLANA BEACH DEL MAR Pacific Ocean 0 1 2 4 6 8 Miles ENCINITAS Project Location NATIONAL CITY SOURCE: SanGIS, 2009; BRG Consulting, Inc., 2010 BRG CONSULTING, INC. �� Cl IJ� POWAY SAN DIEGO / ,SANTEE__ IMP IAL BEACH EL GAJON CA MESA CHULA VISTA National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Regional Location i E \5{N Sty E 65N 5\ TL m MEXICO 7/14/10 FIGURE 1 1-2 F:\projects\861 City of National City \Draft SPA MND\Project Descriptio \Figure 1 Regional Location.roxd nProject Boundary nDowntown Specific Plan SOURCE: SanGIS, 2009; ESRI, 2010; BRG Consulting, Inc., 2010 • BRG CONSULTING, INC. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Aerial Photo 7/14/10 FIGURE 2 1-3 F:\protects\861 City of Notional City \Draft SPA MND\Protect Descnphon\Figure 2 Aerial Photo.mxd ➢ O a ,2SNa— 0 125250 500 750 1,000 Feet 1 \ \ '< 0 W oBSN 5S ENS RpR v W ,ASN SS ym/ Sp WS Legend /\/ Roads Freeway 1_2 : Proposed Specific Plan Boundary Existing Specific Plan Boundary Downtown Specific Plan Westside Specific Plan Downtown Specific, Plan m 2SN 5S Westside to*1 ecific Plan VAS SOURCE: SanGIS, 2009; BRG Consulting, Inc., 2009 .I/ BRG CONSULTING, INC. 0 ➢< 75N RL F 0 N5S m O E \ESN gt N National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Proposed Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Boundary 424,6, Re( —74 ti 5LSH SS 7/14/10 FIGURE 3 F:\projects\BO ] City oh National City \Draft SPA MND\Project Description \Figure 3 Proposed Downtown SPA Boundary.mxd 1-4 Attachment A - Project Description The proposed specific plan amendment area would be redesignated from its existing City-wide MLR Zone (residential, light manufacturing) to Development Zone 12B. Figure 4 depicts the existing and proposed zoning for the project site. The existing MLR zone allows for the continuation and new establishment of low intensity industrial uses while protecting existing residential and institutional uses from potentially incompatible industrial development. The proposed Development Zone 12B would allow for mid -rise multifamily residential, street -oriented retail, office, or hospitality. The proposed Development Zone 12B would have the attributes of the immediately adjacent Development Zone 12; however, the maximum floor area ratio (F.A.R.) would be 4:1 (instead of 5:1 as allowed in Development Zone 12A), and the maximum building height would be 65 feet (instead of 90 feet as allowed in Development Zone 12B). Development Zone 12, located on the eastern half of the three blocks, allows for mixed uses including multi -family residential, retail, office, and hospitality. Development Zone 12 has a maximum FAR of 5:1 (.5) and maximum building height of 90-feet. This area would be redesignated Development Zone 12A in order to differentiate it from the proposed Development Zone 12B. Proposed Development Zone 12B Regulations: Development Intensity: Floor Area Ratio: 4:1 Maximum Height: 65 feet General Guidelines: This zone has frontage along the east side of Roosevelt Avenue from Civic Center Drive to 16th Street and extends one-half block to the east. This zone is adjacent to and west of Development Zone 12A, which fronts on National City Boulevard across from Kimball Park and the National City Library. The police station is to the north, and the Westside Specific Plan area is to the west and south. Proposed land uses in this zone are multifamily residential, office or hotel. Retail, office or service uses may be provided at grade, but these uses should not dilute street -level pedestrian retailing in the heart of the Downtown core. Preferred Land Uses: Multi -family residential, street -oriented retail, office or hospitality. Restricted or Prohibited Land Uses: Total retail uses should not exceed 20% of the total development. Design Guidelines: • Parking shall be underground, "encapsulated" within the development site or in structures adjacent to these sites to the west. Placement of parking areas, blank walls or service areas along Roosevelt Avenue is prohibited. • Where full -block developments are proposed, a breakdown of building massing and significant articulation of dwelling units should be employed to avoid a monolithic, institutional appearance. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment 1-5 November 2010 Case No 2010-23 SPA, IS n z 125250 500 750 1,000 Feet "/ Roads DwoNs� Freeway s °A _ _ , Project Boundary m _ aSpecific Plan Boundary Zoning 72 Existing MLR - Proposed Development Zone 12B Development Zone 12 - Redesignate to Development Zone 12A SOURCE: SanGIS, 2009; BRG Consulting, Inc., 2009 • BRG CONSULTING, INC. piPtiP' 6� National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Existing and Proposed Zoning r�r 7/14/10 FIGURE 4 F:\projects\86 I City of National City \Draft SPA MND\Project Description \Figure 4 Existing and Proposed Zoning.mxd 1-6 Attachment A - Project Description 1.2.2 Residential Development The proposed project includes a specific development proposal to develop two residential apartment buildings on one of the half -blocks that is included in the proposed Development Zone 12B. Figure 5 depicts the specific location of each proposed residential projects within the project site. Approval of this specific development proposal would require an amendment to the Downtown Specific Plan (as proposed under Development Zone 12B), and two Consistency Reviews. The proposed projects are market rate residential apartments totaling 45 units within several low-rise (3-4 story) buildings. Assessor Parcels 560-064-01 and 560-064-02. Construction of one new residential apartment building consisting of one 30,325 square foot building and a total of 25 units. Figures 6 through 8 depict the proposed site plan and elevations for this project. Assessor Parcels 560-064-04 and 560-064-05. Construction of two new residential apartment buildings consisting of one 11,379 square foot building and one 13,659 square foot building for a total of 20 units. Figures 9 through 11 depict the proposed site plan and elevations for this project. Specific Plan Amendment Total Potential Development Summary Table 1 provides a summary of the potential development that could occur within the Specific Plan Amendment Area (Development Zone 12B) based on the proposed development regulations. This table summarizes existing development, existing development potential based on the existing MLR zone, and proposed development potential based on Development Zone 12B regulations. As shown in Table 1, approximately 341 residential units could be developed under Development Zone 12B. 1.3.1 Discretionary Actions and Approvals by the City of National City In conformance with Sections 15050 and 15367 of the State CEQA Guidelines, the City of National City has been designated the "lead agency," which is defined as, "the public agency which has the principal responsibility for carrying out or approving a project." The following identifies the discretionary actions and approvals by the City of National City for the proposed project. 1. Specific Plan Amendment. An amendment to the City's Downtown Specific Plan is proposed as described in the preceding text, and is required to implement the specific residential apartment component of the project. 2. Consistency Review. Pursuant to the Downtown Specific Plan, Chapter V Development Review Process, projects proposed within the Downtown Specific Plan area are subject to a Consistency Review by the Community Development Commission Board (City Council) to ensure that the proposed project is consistent with the intent and development regulations of the Downtown Specific Plan. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment 1-7 November 2010 Case No 2010-23 SPA, IS Downtown Specific Plan Westside 1 Specific Plan 51"5j� SOURCE: SanGIS, 2009; BRG Consulting, Inc., 2009 • • BRG CONSULTING, INC. Legend /"/ Roads ^� Freeway Project Boundary aSpecific Plan Boundary Residential Projects 20 Units 25 Units Applicant Proposed National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Location of Residential Projects FIGURE 5 F:\projects\861 City of National City \Draft SPA MND\Project Description \Figure 5 Location of Residential Projects.nud 1-8 9 10 11 12 13 SOURCE: Kyle Stephens & Associates, Inc., 2009 B III BRG CONSULTING. INC. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment 20-Units 16th Street and Roosevelt Avenue Site Plan 7/14/10 FIGURE 6 F:Aprojects \861 City of Notional City VDraft SPA MNDVProject DescriptionAFigure 6 16th and Roosevelt Site Plan.oi 1-9 65' Hei 65' Hei th Limit at Flat Roof R3 lu' III ImmII AIM fifi fill II'. II[III�IIIIII1 II R2 a5' R1 I!51 Height Reference Datum h Limit at Flot Roof a5' R3 R2 R1 ROOSEVELT AVE ELEVATION SCALE. I/b= I•-0 fi ll I lllllll•llllllll 16th Street Height Reference Datum 12' Lowest Grade Elevotion NORTH ELEVATION xA E _ i•-0 Roosevelt Ave SOURCE: Kyle Stephens & Associates, Inc., 2009 B fl . BRG CONSULTING, INC. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment 25-Units Roosevelt Ave and North Elevations 7/20/10 FIGURE 7 F:\projects\861 City of National City \Draft SPA MND\Project Description\Figure 7 Roosevelt and North Elevations.ai Roosevelt Ave R3 R2 R1 Hill III III1■'llllll' II I6TH STREET ELEVATION IEI SCALE. I/8' . 1'-0 INMI II Iillloi llUi lllll ilnnll ii 11IIII11111111. III Ill IIIf.II i i irF II u mnn ire ninismrrmmnamr N. i. NE 16th Street ALLEY ELEVATION 65' Hei.th Limit at Flat Roof R3 R2 41' R1 Height Reference Datum 65' Heigth Limit at Flat Roof 45' Height Reference Datum 12' Lowest Grade Elevation enAi F, va• , rc• SOURCE: Kyle Stephens & Associates, Inc., 2009 B fl BRG CONSULTING, INC. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment 25-Units 16th Street and Alley Elevations 7/14/10 FIGURE 8 F:\projects\861 City of National City \Draft SPA ;MD \Project Description \ Figure 8 16fh and Alley Elevafions.ai • ROOSEVELT AVENUE 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1ov i'i'i'i'i.*'•'•....'i'i •••••• ••••• NNW�'i'�i'�'i'i'i r►'•'i+•••••%•'►'•O.'i ri'i'JOOb'O4'i'i i'i'i'iO+i'i'�•'i'�Oi'i r'i'i'i'i'i'i'i •'•'•'•' magit •O'iAilke'i'i MAO maame 17 16 15 14 (H) 13 12 11 10 m 1 UNIT 5 2BOR • UNIT 1 2 BDR UNIT 2 2 BDR 7 !� UNIT 4 2 BDR Q: : UNIT 3 2 BDR tar I00'-0" JOA -or ALLEY SITE, PARKING & FIRST FLOOR PLAN SGALE: I/8' . 1.-01 15TH STREET SOURCE: Kyle Stephens & Associates, Inc., 2009 B BRG CONSULTING, INC. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment 25-Units 15th Street and Roosevelt Avenue Site Plan 7/14/10 FIGURE 9 F:Aprojecls\86l Cily of NolioncI CilyVDrat' SPA MNDVProject DescriptionAFigure 9 15th and Roosevelt Sile Pla l.c 1-12 " EMI q l IL 1111111111 Jo IIIII: nil 11111 II A gm111 gIg 65' Heigth Limit at Flat Roof R3 R2 R1 65' Het 15th Street h Limit at Flot Roof 41' Height Reference Datum ROOSEVELT AVE ELEVATION sG.J.E, we, - I' -a ■ - ■ ■ _ ■ 41' R3 R2 R1 ilnnii -111111111'.1111111191 R® unnli iu mTlolilrlloli ®® ®H fI i 1111Y 11111111111 •= te1-11 mom inni� Nu= ME ■ Height Reference Datum.x - RO__ 10' Lowest Grade Elevation Alley I5TH STREET ELEVATION 5G/iE. I,6- . I'-0- Roosevelt Avenue SOURCE: Kyle Stephens & Associates, Inc., 2009 B fl 11]. ■ BRG CONSULTING, INC. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment 25-Units 15th Street and Roosevelt Ave Elevations 7/14/10 FIGURE 10 F:\projects\861 City of National City \Draft SPA MND\Project Description\Figure 10 15th and Roosevelt Elevafions.ai 65' Heigth Limit of Flat Roof III/ IIIu!li onalll R3 NM' R2 Roosevelt Avenue 65' Heigth Limit at Flat Roof 41' I:lIcuniImsl R1 41' RO Height Reference Datum 18' SOUTH ELEVATION SCALE, tle' • I'-O innlli IIIIIIIDWTur. I_E RR RR ee IIII p1I1I IIIIIII I IR RR !11!11i III.. 111111111111' III 11 ,ni1, II !!I, t■. ■■ �■ ■■ Atoll■. ■■ ■■ 11 ii ea morn Height Reference Datum 18' Lowest Grade Elevation ALLEY ELEVATION SCALE, 1/8= i'—o Alley R3 R2 R1 RO 15th Street Lowest Grade Elevation SOURCE: Kyle Stephens & Associates, Inc., 2009 B fl BRG CONSULTING, INC. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment 25-Units South and Alley Elevations 7/14/10 FIGURE 11 F:\projects\861 City of National City \Draft SPA MND\Project Description\Figure 11 15th and Alley Elevations.ai TABLE 1 NATIONAL CITY DOWNTOWN SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT Development Assumptions Block/ Size/ Use Existing MLR Zone Maximum Development Potential' Net Change Existing MLR Zone - Existing Use2 Proposed 12B Zone Maximum Development Potential3 (or specific use) GROUND TO PLAN Net Change (Existing Use - Proposed 12B Zone) PLAN TO PLAN Net Change (Existing MLR Zone - Proposed 12B Zone) North Block: 0.647 ac. LI 18,920 sq.ft. Res = 0 du 56,366 sq. ft. OR 5 du's +37,446 sq.ft. OR 5 du's +118 du OR +112,733 sq.ft. office, hotel OR +94 du w/ +22,546 sq.ft. retail (decrease LI by 18,920) +1 18 du OR +112,733 sq.ft. office, hotel OR +94 du w/ +22,546 sq.ft. retail (decrease LI by 56,366 sq.ft.) +l 13 du OR +112,733 sq.ft. office, hotel OR +89 du +22,546 sq.ft. Central Block: 0.653 ac. LI = 8,189 sq.ft. Res = 3 du 56,889 sq. ft. OR 5 du's +48,700 sq.ft. OR 2 du's +119 du OR +113,778 sq.ft. office, hotel OR +95 du w/ +22,755 sq.ft. retail (decrease LI by 8,189) +1 16 du OR +113,778 sq.ft. office, hotel OR +92 du w/ +22,755 retail (decrease LI by 56,889 sq.ft.) +114 du OR +113,778 sq.ft. office, hotel OR +90 du +22,755 sq.ft. South Block: 0.651 ac. LI = 12,560 sq.ft. Res = 1 du 56,715 sq. ft. OR 5 du's +44,155 sq.ft. OR 4 du's Two Apartment Projects are proposed on Block 1: 30,325 sq.ft./25 du's 25,038 sq.ft./20 du's The remaining parcel: 0.155 ac = 27,007 sq. ft. OR 28 du's OR 22 du's and 5,401 sq.ft. retail (decrease LI by 12,560) Increase: 44 du's The remaining parcel: 0.155 ac = 27,007 sq. ft. OR 28 du's OR 22 du's and 5,401 sq.ft. retail (decrease LI by 56,715 sq.ft.) +114 du OR +113,427 sq.ft. office, hotel OR +90 du +22,685 sq.ft. TOTAL TOTAL TOTAL TOTAL TOTAL: Existing Use to Proposed Zone (Ground to Plan) TOTAL: Existing Zone to Proposed Zone (Plan to Plan) 1.951 ac. LI = 39,669 sq.ft. Res=4du LI = 169,970 sq.ft. 15du's LI = 130,310 sq.ft. 11 OR +310 du OR 253,518 sq.ft. R +21 Oduw/ +50,702 sq.ft. retail (Decrease in LI by 39,669 sq.ft.) Increase in DU by 303 OR +253,518 sq.ft. sq.ft. office, hotel OR +253 du w/ 50,702 sq.ft. retail (Decrease in LI by 169,970 sq.ft.) Increase in DU by 341 OR +339,938 sq.ft. office, hotel OR +269 du w/ +67,986 sq.ft. retail MLR Zone. The MLR Zone allows an FAR of 2.0 or 8.7 du/ac with 5,000 sq. ft. min lot size. 2 Existing Zone - Existing Use. This column shows the change in development that could occur within the block based on the existing use of the site and the existing MLR zone regulations. Development Zone 12B. Proposed Development Zone 12B allows an FAR of 4.0 and no limit on du/ac. Under the Zone 12B, residential, office, or hotel uses are allowed. Additionally, mixed -use, with residential and no greater than 20% retail is allowed. Dwelling unit assumption: (gross acreage x FAR) divided by 950 sq. ft. per unit = # of d.u.'s National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS 1-15 November 2010 Attachment B Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Prepared by BRG Consulting, Inc. November 2010 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS State Clearinghouse No. 2010071074 Lead Agency: City of National City 1243 National City Boulevard National City, CA 91950 Prepared by: BRG Consulting, Inc. 304 Ivy Street San Diego, CA 92101 November 2010 City of National City Attachment B: MMRP MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM City of National City National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS The City of National City will adopt this Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) in accordance with Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 21081.6 and Section 15097 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. The purpose of the MMRP is to ensure that the National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment, which is the subject of the Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND), complies with all applicable environmental mitigation requirements. The mitigation measures for the project will be adopted by the City of National City, in conjunction with the adoption of the MND. The mitigation measures have been integrated into this MMRP. Within this document, the approved mitigation measures are organized and referenced by subject category and includes: (Ill) Air Quality, (V) Cultural Resources, (VI) Geology and Soils, (VII) Greenhouse Gas Emissions, (VIII) Hazards and Hazardous Materials, (XII) Noise, (XIV) Public Services, (XVI) Transportation/Traffic, and (XVII) Utilities and Service Systems in Attachment A. The specific mitigation measures are identified, as well as the timing and methods of verification and the responsible party that will ensure that each action is implemented. The mitigation measures applicable to the project includes avoiding certain impacts altogether, minimizing impacts by limiting the degree or magnitude of the action and its implementation, and/or reducing or eliminating impacts over time by maintenance operations during the life of the action. Public Resources Code Section 21081.6 requires the Lead Agency, for each project that is subject to CEQA, to monitor performance of the mitigation measures included in any environmental document to ensure that implementation does, in fact, take place. The City of National City is the designated lead agency for the MMRP. The City of National City is responsible for review of all monitoring reports, enforcement actions, and document disposition. The City of National City will rely on information provided by the monitor as accurate and up to date and will field check mitigation measure status as required. A record of the MMRP will be maintained at the City of National City, Advance Planning Division, City Hall, 1243 National City Blvd., National City, CA 91950. All mitigation measures contained in the MND shall be made conditions of the project as may be further described below. National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment, Case No. 2010-23 SPA, IS & 1 November 2010 Mitigated Negative Declaration City of National City Attachment B: MMRP Table B-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for the National City Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Mitigation Measures Timing and Methods Responsible Parties II■ AIR QUALITY AQ-1: Short -Term Construction. If air quality impacts associated with construction of an approved project within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area exceed the significance thresholds, mitigation measures identified below should be implemented as feasible to reduce emissions of the project. Mitigation measures from the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) are presented below and are recommended for projects in the San Diego Air Basin, where applicable. The following measures are recommended to reduce pollutant emissions from construction activities. The construction operators shall implement these measures: • Use water trucks to keep all areas where vehicles move damp enough to prevent dust raised when traveling on the site; • Wet down the site in the late morning and after work is completed for the day; • After construction, wet inactive areas down to reduce windblown dust; • Employ street sweeping, should silt be carried over to adjacent public roadways; • Wash off trucks leaving the site; • Reestablish ground cover on the construction site through seeding and watering on portions of the site that will not be disturbed for lengthy periods (such as two months or more); • Maintain construction equipment engines by keeping them tuned; and, • Reduce traffic speeds on all unpaved road surfaces to 15 miles per hour or less. Timing: Prior to issuance of construction permits and during construction. Methods: Require the implementation of recommended measures to reduce pollutant emissions from construction activities for all future development projects within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Project Area prior to issuing construction permits for discretionary projects, and during construction. Implementation: Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent Monitoring and Reporting: Qualified agent approved by the City, of the Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent. Verification: City National City Specific Plan Amendment Mitigated Negative Declaration B-2 City of National City Attachment B: MMRP Mitigation Measures Timing and Methods Responsible Parties AQ-2: Long-term. Timing: Prior to issuance of building permits and during operation. Implementation: Applicant, Developer, or Project The most significant reductions in regional and local air pollutant emissions are attainable through programs, which reduce the vehicular travel associated with the project. Support and Methods: Require all future development projects Proponent Monitoring and Reporting: compliance with the Regional Air Quality Strategy (RAQS) for the within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment Qualified agent approved basin is the most important measure to achieve this goal. The RAQS project area to implement air pollutant emissions by the City, of the includes improvement of mass transit facilities and implementation reduction programs and measures prior to the Applicant, Developer, or of vehicular usage reduction programs. Additionally, energy conservation measures are included. None of these recommended mitigation measures are strictly required. However, all relevant measures should be applied to the greatest extent possible. issuance of building permits and during operation. Project Proponent. Verification: City Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Measures: • Schedule truck deliveries and pickups for commercial uses during off-peak hours when feasible. This will alleviate traffic congestion; therefore, emissions during the peak hour. • Provide adequate ingress and egress at all entrances to public facilities to minimize vehicle idling at curbsides. Presumably, this measure would improve traffic flow into and out of the parking lot. The air quality benefits are incalculable because more specific data is required. • Provide on -site services. Provide incentives such as on -site ATMs and other similar measures that address lifestyle needs. These measures reduce Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT), but the air quality benefit cannot be quantified because more specific data is required. Energy Efficient Measures and Additional Measures: • Compliance with Title 24, Part 6, California's Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings. All buildings must comply with Title 24, Part 6. Reducing the need to heat or cool structures by improving thermal integrity will result in a reduced expenditure of energy and a reduction in pollutant emissions. • Develop operational emissions mitigation plan. Prior to approval of each building permit for a commercial or office National City Specific Plan Amendment Mitigated Negative Declaration B-3 City of National City Attachment B: MMRP Mitigation Measures Timing and Methods Responsible Parties use, the applicant shall submit to the City for approval, an operational emissions mitigation plan. The plan shall identify implementation procedures for each of the following emissions reduction measures. If certain measures are determined infeasible, an explanation thereof shall be provided in the operational emissions mitigation plan. • Utilize built-in energy -efficient appliances to reduce energy consumption and emissions. • Utilize energy -efficient and automated controls for air conditioners and lighting to reduce electricity consumption and associated emissions. • Coordinate with Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) regarding the location of bus turnouts and buses routed within the project area. CULTURAL RESOURCES MM CR-1 Prior to future project approval and issuance of any construction permit within the project site, including but not limited to a demolition or building permit, the applicant shall conduct an evaluation of the five onsite buildings identified as potentially eligible historical structures in the Cultural and Historical Resources Survey prepared by ASM Affiliates, Inc. dated April 2, 2009. Thee evaluation shall determine if these buildings are eligible for inclusion in the state or local historical registers. The evaluation shall be performed by a historian or architectural historian who meets the Secretary of Interior's Professional Qualification Standards for Historic Preservation Professionals. The historian/architectural historian shall consult with knowledgeable local groups (e.g., Save Our Heritage Organization, National City Historical Society, San Diego Historical Society, and others) and individuals, appropriate archives, and appropriate repositories in an effort to identify the original and subsequent owners as well as the architect and the builder to establish whether any of these individuals played important roles in local or regional history (criterion B). Additionally the physical characteristics and condition of the building or structure shall be evaluated under criterion (C), and those judged to possess "the Timing: Prior to issuance of any construction permits. Methods: Require all future development projects within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area to evaluate the potential historical eligibility of the five onsite buildings prior to construction. Implementation: Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent Monitoring and Reporting: Qualified agent approved y the City, the by Applicant,y Developer, or Project Proponent. Verification: City National City Specific Plan Amendment Mitigated Negative Declaration B-4 City of National City Attachment B: MMRP Mitigation Measures Timing and Methods Responsible Parties distinctive characteristic of a type, period, region, or method of construction" shall be further assessed for integrity and context. The results of the archival research and field assessment shall be documented in an evaluation report. This report will explicitly state whether the resource is eligible for either state or local historical registers and shall also make specific recommendations as appropriate. The historian/architectural historian shall complete the necessary California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) site forms (minimally Primary Record and Building/Structure/Object record; others as required) and include as an attachment to the report. Copies of the DPR site forms shall be submitted to the California Historical Resource Information System via the SCIC, an auxiliary of San Diego State University. GEOLOGY AND SOILS MM GS-1 A geotechnical investigation shall be approved by the City prior to the issuance of a gradingpermit for anydevelopment project that p p l requires grading. The geotechnical investigation shall include fieldwork (e.g.,subsurface exploration, sampling) and laboratoryQualifiedltorg p p g) analysis as directed by the City to determine the exact location and extent of potential geologic/seismic hazards. All applicable remedial grading measures and seismic design parameters recommended by the geotechnical engineer shall be incorporated into the project and shown on the final grading plans and/or incorporated into contractor specifications prior to award of construction contracts, to the satisfaction of the City. Timing: Prior to issuance of a grading permit. Methods: Require all future development projects within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area to prepare a geotechnical investigation and submit to the City for approval prior to issuance of a grading permit. Implementation: Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent andeReporting: vg: agent approved by the City, eof the A Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent. Verification: City GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS MM GHG-1 Consistent with the intent of AB32, the proposed project shall demonstrate that it has measures in place that would assist in providing statewide reduction of CO2 as compared to `business as usual.' The following greenhouse gas offset measures have been shown to be effective by CARB and shall be implemented wherever possible: Timing: Prior to issuance of building permits and during construction and operation. Methods: Require all future development projects within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area to implement Implementation: Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent Monitoring and Reporting: Qualified agent approved by the City, of the Applicant, National City Specific Plan Amendment Mitigated Negative Declaration B-5 City of National City Attachment B: MMRP Mitigation Measures Timing and Methods Responsible Parties Diesel Equipment (Compression Ignition) Offset Strategies (40% to greenhouse gas emission offset measures during Developer, or Project 60% Reduction) construction and operation of the project. Proponent. • Use electricity from power poles rather than temporary diesel power generators. Verification: City • Construction equipment operating onsite should be equipped with two to four degree engine timing retard or precombustion chamber engines. • Construction equipment used for the project should utilize EPA Tier 2 or better technology. Vehicular Trip (Spark Ignition) Offset Strategies (30% to 70% Reduction) • Encourage commute alternatives by informing construction employees and customers about transportation options for reaching your location (i.e., post transit schedules/routes). • Help construction employees rideshare by posting commuter ride sign-up sheets, employee home zip code map, etc. • When possible, arrange for a single construction vendor who makes deliveries for several items. • Purchase Carbon Offsets to compensate for miles traveled by construction vehicles. • Plan construction delivery routed to eliminate unnecessary trips. • Keep construction vehicles well maintained to prevent leaks and minimize emissions, and encourage employees to do the same. • Provide car/van pool parking for construction employees. • Sell bus or light rail passes on -site or at a discount to construction employees. National City Specific Plan Amendment Mitigated Negative Declaration B-6 City of National City Attachment B: MMRP Mitigation Measures Timing and Methods Responsible Parties On -site Energy Offset Strategies (50% to 70% Reduction) • Complete regularly scheduled maintenance on HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems. • Use an energy management system to control lighting, kitchen exhaust, refrigeration and HVAC. • Install occupancy sensors for lighting in low occupancy areas. • Retrofit incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lights. • Install ultra efficient ballasts to dim lights to take advantage of daylight. • Insulate all major hot water pipes. • Insulate refrigeration cold suction lines. • Use weather stripping to close air gaps around doors and windows. • Select electrical equipment with energy saving features (e.g., Energy Star). • Plant native shrubs or trees near windows for shade. • Convert hot water heaters to on -demand systems. • Reduce the number of lamps and increase lighting efficiency by installing optical reflectors or diffusers. • Install ceiling fans in homes where applicable. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS MM HM-1 Prior to the development of any property that was formerly occupied by or adjacent to existing facilities that used or stored hazardous materials, a detailed Phase I Environmental Site Assessment shall be approved bythe Cityof National to evaluate pp the potential for soil and groundwater contamination. If warranted by the Phase I environmental site assessment, soil and possibly groundwater sampling shall be required. p g q Timing: Prior to issuance of any construction permits. Methods: Prior to construction, require all future development projects within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area to submit a detailed Phase I Environmental Site Assessment for approval by the City of National City prior to any development of any property that was Implementation: Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent Monitoringuifidgaen Reporting: Qualified agent approved by the City, of the Applicant, Developet. or Project Proponent. National City Specific Plan Amendment Mitigated Negative Declaration B-7 City of National City Attachment B: MMRP Mitigation Measures Timing and Methods Responsible Parties formerly occupied by or adjacent to existing facilities that used or stored hazardous materials. Verification: City MM HM-2 Asbestos, mercury, and a lead -based paint survey of existing buildings shall be conducted prior to any renovation or demolition activities to the satisfaction of the City. Timing: Prior to issuance of any grading or building permit. Methods: Require all future development projects within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area to submit an asbestos, mercury, and a lead -based paint survey to the City, prior to issuance of any construction permits. Implementation: Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent Monitoringuifidgaen Reporting: Qualified agent approved by the City, Developer,of the Applicant, or Project Proponent. Verification: City MM HM-3 Prior to issuance of a grading permit for any property where the results of the Phase I, Phase II, and/or asbestos, mercury, or lead- based paint evaluation indicates the presence of these materials or the potential for hazardous materials at levels requiring mitigation, all remedial measures identified in the studies shall be shown on the face of the gradingplans and/or incorporated into contractor p specifications prior to awarding the construction contract or issuance of a demolition permit, whichever is first. All remedial measures required by law shall be implemented and completed prior to the issuance of grading or building permits, whichever is issued first. Timing: Prior to issuance of any grading or building permit. Methods: Require all future development projects within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area to implement any remedial measures for the presence of any potential hazardous materials, prior to issuance of anygradingor buildingProponent. permits. Implementation: Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent Monitoringuifidgaen Reporting: Qualified agent approved by the City, r,f the Applicant, Developer, or Project Verification: City NOISE MM N-1 To ensure that construction activities comply with the City's Noise Ordinance, a Construction Noise Abatement Plan shall be prepared for each construction project and submitted to the City prior to the issuance of demolition, grading or building permits, whichever is issued first. The Plan shall describe the construction activities, equipment required for those activities, and noise level generation characteristics of the equipment to be used. Noise levels at the closest residential use shall be predicted. If projected noise levels will exceed the Noise Ordinance limits, measures to reduce those Timing: Prior to issuance of any construction permits. Methods: Require the preparation of a Construction Noise Abatement Plan for any future development within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area prior to the issuance of any construction permits. Implementation: Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent Monitoringuifidgaen Reporting: Qualified agent approved by the City, of r, the Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent. National City Specific Plan Amendment Mitigated Negative Declaration B-8 City of National City Attachment B: MMRP Mitigation Measures Timing and Methods Responsible Parties levels to comply with the Noise Ordinance shall be described and implemented. Verification: City MM N-2 The structure compliance of all future development within the Specific Plan Amendment area would be required to demonstrate a closed -window interior noise level of 45 dBA CNEL for all residential sensitive use areas. Office space mitigation would be at the discretion of the City of National City. Given this, a separate architectural acoustical assessment shall be completed for each proposed project within the project site, prior to issuance of any building permits for the residential aspects of any future development projects. Timing: Prior to issuance of any building permit. Methods: Require the preparation of a separate architectural acoustical assessment for any future development within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area prior to the issuance of any building permits. Implementation: Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent Monitoring and Reporting: Qualified agent approved by the City, of the Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent. Verification: City PUBLIC SERVICES MM PS-1: Police Protection. The Police Department shall review all future development projects for police protection impacts and ensure that additional police personnel and/or equipment are provided to provide acceptable level of police protection services deemed acceptable by the National City Police Department prior to issuance of building permits. Timing: Prior to issuance of any building permit. Methods: Require all future development projects within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area to be reviewed by the National City Police Department for police protection impacts, prior to issuance of any building permits. Implementation: City and Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent Monitoring and Reporting: City Verification: City MM PS-1: Fire Protection. The Fire Department shall review all future development projects for fire protection impacts and ensure that additional fire personnel and/or equipment are provided to provide acceptable level of fire protection services deemed acceptable by the National City Fire Department prior to issuance of building permits. Timing: Prior to issuance of any building permit. Methods: Require all future development projects within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area to be reviewed by the National City Fire Department for fire protection impacts, prior to issuance of any building permits. Implementation: City and Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent Monitoring and Reporting: City Verification: City National City Specific Plan Amendment Mitigated Negative Declaration B-9 City of National City Attachment B: MMRP Mitigation Measures Timing and Methods Responsible Parties TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC MM T-1: Intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NB Timing: Prior to issuance of any construction permits. Methods: Require the installation of a traffic signal when warranted by future development within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area. Implementation: Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent Monitoring and Reporting: Qualified agent approved by the City, of the Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent. Verification: City on -ramp. As part of the Trade Corridor Improvement Fund (TCIF) Port Access Improvements Project for the intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NB on -ramp, Caltrans has prepared a Project Report and traffic analysis which indicates capacity improvements and a new signal for the intersection of Civic Center Drive at Wilson Avenue/I-5 NB on -ramp, to be constructed in the near -term. ULTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS MM U-1: Wastewater. All development projects within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment area shall be reviewed by the National City Public Works Department to make sure that adequate wastewater facilities will be available to serve the project. If the Public Works Department determines the existing wastewater facilities as not adequate the project developer shall construct the facilities necessary to the satisfaction of the City Engineer prior to issuance of occupancy permits. Timing: Prior to issuance of any occupancy Implementation: City and permits. Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent Methods: Require all future development Monitoring and Reporting: projects within the Downtown Specific Plan City Amendment be reviewed by the City of National City Public Works Department prior to issuance of any occupancy permits, to ensure adequate Verification: City wastewater facilities will be available. MM U-2: Water. All water utility plans shall be approved by the Sweetwater Authority to ensure that adequate water service is provided to the development. Timing: Prior to issuance of any construction permits. Methods: Require all water utility plans for any future development within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment project area be approved by the Sweetwater Authority prior to issuance of any construction permits to ensure adequate water service is available. Implementation: Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent Monitoring and Reporting: Qualified agent approved by the City, of the Applicant, Developer, or Project Proponent. Verification: City National City Specific Plan Amendment Mitigated Negative Declaration B-10 City of National City Attachment B: MMRP Mitigation Measures Timing and Methods Responsible Parties MM U-3: Water. Timing: Prior to issuance of any building permit Implementation: Applicant, The City shall require the incorporation of all state mandated water and during construction and operation. Developer, or Project conservation measures. The City shall also require the additional Proponent incorporation, as applicable, of water conservation measures including water efficient dishwashers, water pressure reducing Methods: Require any future development within the Downtown Specific Plan Amendment andeReporting: valves, hot water pipe insulation, and hot water on -demand units as project area to implement water conservation measures Qualified Qualified agent approved by applicable. into building plans prior to issuance of any building permits. the City, Developer,of the Applicant, or Project Proponent. Verification: City National City Specific Plan Amendment Mitigated Negative Declaration B-1 1