PCRES 2000-034PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2000-034
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING
CERTIFICATION OF A MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 00-394 PREPARED FOR
SPECIFIC PLAN 00-042 AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
00-048
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 00-394
APPLICANT: LA QUINTA ARTS FOUNDATION
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of La Quinta, California,
did, on the 23rd day of May, 2000 hold a duly noticed Public Hearing to consider
Environmental Assessment 00-394 for Specific Plan 00-042 and Conditional Use
Permit 00-048, generally located on the west side of Washington Street, between
47th and 48th Avenues, more particularly described as follows:
APN 643-090-024
WHEREAS, said Environmental Assessment has complied with the
requirements of "The Rules to Implement the California Environmental Quality Act of
1970"(as amended; Resolution 83-68 adopted by the La Quinta City Council) in that
the Community Development Department has prepared an Initial Study (EA 00-394)
and has determined that although the proposed Specific Plan and Conditional Use
Permit could have a significant adverse impact on the environment, there would not
be a significant effect in this case because appropriate mitigation measures were made
a part of the assessment and included in the conditions of approval for Specific Plan
00-042 and Conditional Use Permit 00-048, and a Mitigated Negative Declaration of
Environmental Impact should be filed; and,
WHEREAS, upon hearing and considering all testimony and arguments,
if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said Planning Commission did find
the following facts, findings, and reasons to justify recommending certification of said
Environmental Assessment:
1 . The proposed Specific Plan 00-042 and Conditional Use Permit 00-048 will not
be detrimental to the health, safety, or general welfare of the community, either
indirectly, or directly, in that no significant unmitigated impacts were identified
by Environmental Assessment 00-394.
2. The proposed Specific Plan 00-042 and Conditional Use Permit 00-048 will not
have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, substantially
reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife population to drop below self sustaining
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Planning Commission Resolution 2000-034
La Quinta Arts Foundation - EA 20000-394
levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or
restrict the range of rare or endangered plants or animals or eliminate important
examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory.
3. The proposed Specific Plan 00-042 and Conditional Use Permit 00-048 do not
have the potential to achieve short-term environmental goals, to the
disadvantage of long-term environmental goals, as no significant effects on
environmental factors have been identified by the Environmental Assessment.
4. The proposed Specific Plan 00-042 and Conditional Use Permit 00-048 will not
result in impacts which are individually limited or cumulatively considerable
when considering planned or proposed development in the immediate vicinity,
as development patterns in the area will not be significantly affected by the
proposed subdivision.
5. The proposed Specific Plan 00-042 and Conditional Use Permit 00-048 will not
have environmental effects that will adversely affect the human population,
either directly or indirectly, as no significant impacts have been identified which
would affect human health, risk potential or public services.
6. There is no substantial evidence in light of the entire record that the project may
have a significant effect on the environment.
7. The Planning Commission has considered the Environmental Assessment 00-
394 and the Environmental Assessment reflects the independent judgement of
the City.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the
City of La Quinta, California, as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct and constitutes the findings of
the Planning Commission for this Environmental Assessment.
2. That it does hereby recommend to the City Council certification of
Environmental Assessment 00-394 for the reasons set forth in this Resolution
and as stated in the Environmental Assessment Checklist and Addendum on file
in the Community Development Department.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the La Quinta
Planning Commission held on this 23rd day of May, 2000, by the following vote, to
wit:
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Planning Commission Resolution 2000-034
La Quinta Arts Foundation - EA 20000-394
AYES: Commissioners Abels, Butler, Robbins, Tyler, and Chairman Kirk
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
ne-� L---�
KIRK, Chairman
City of La Quinta, California
U
tY HVRMAN
mun ty Development Director
of La Quinta, California
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Environmental Checklist Form
Project Title: Specific Plan 2000-042, Conditional Use Permit 2000-048
2. Lead Agency Name and Address: City of La Quinta
78-495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, CA 92253
Contact Person and Phone Number: Christine di Iorio, 760-777-7125
4. Project Location: West side of Washington Street, between 47th and 48th Avenues.
5. Project Sponsor's Name and Address: La Quinta Arts Foundation
P. O. Box 777
La Quinta, CA 92253
6. General Plan Designation: Low Density Residential
Zoning: Low Density Residential
Description of Project: (Describe the whole action involved, including but not limited to later phases
of the project, and any secondary, support, or off -site features necessary for its implementation. Attach
additional sheets if necessary.)
Specific Plan to establish development standards for the eventual construction of art
festival displays, parking, a 60,000 square foot office and education building, a
performing arts amphitheatre, restrooms, a ticket/entry area and associated facilities. The
Conditional Use Permit will allow the use of the property for art galleries and educational
purposes.
9. Surrounding Lane Uses and Setting: Briefly describe the project's surroundings.
North: St. Francis of Assissi Catholic Church
South: Laguna de la Paz, Low Density Residential development
East: Washington Street, Vacant desert lands
West: Santa Rosa Mountains
10. Other agencies whose approval is required (e.g, permits, financing approval, or participation
agreement.)
Coachella Valley Water District
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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" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages.
Aesthetics
Agriculture Resources
Air Quality
Biological Resources
Cultural Resources
Geology and Soils
Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Hydrology and Water Quality
Land Use Planning
Mineral Resources
Noise
Population and Housing
Determination (To be completed by the Lead Agency.)
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
Public Services
Recreation
Transportation/Traffic
Utilities and Service Systems
Mandatory Findings
I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and
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 revisions in the project have been made by
or agreed to by the applicant. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact' or "potentially
significant unless mitigated" 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. An
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain
to be addressed.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because
all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier FIR pursuant to
applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR, including
revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is
required.
Signature
JERRY HERMAN
Printed Name
CITY OF LA QUINTA
For
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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 reference information sources show that the
impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved (e.g. the project falls outside a fault
rupture zone). 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) "Potentially Significant Impact' is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect is
significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact' entries when the determination
is made, an EIR is required.
4) "Negative Declaration: Potentially Significant Unless Mitigation Incorporated" applies where
the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant
Impact' to a "Less 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 Section XVIII, "Earlier Analysis," 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). Earlier analyses are discussed in Section XVIII at the end of the checklist.
6) Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for
potential impacts (e.g., general plans, zoning ordinances). Reference 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.
LN
The analysis of each issue should identify:
a) the significance criteria or threshold used to evaluate each question; and
b) the mitigation measure identified, if any, to reduce the impact to less than significance
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Sample question:
Issues (and Supporting Information Sources):
Would the proposal result in potential impacts involving:
AESTHETICS. Would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? (General Plan
Exhibit CIR-5)
b) Damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock
outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway?
(General Plan EIR, page 5-12 ff.)
c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the
site and its surroundings? (Application materials)
d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would
adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? (Application
materials)
II. AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES:. In determining whether impacts
to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead
agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land Evaluation and
Site Assessment Model prepared by the California Dept. Of
Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on
agriculture and farmland. Would the project:
a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of
Statewide Importance (Farmland) to on -agricultural use? (Master
Environmental Assessment 5-29, 5-32)
b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson
Act contract? (Zoning Map)
c) Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to
their location or nature, could individually or cumulatively result in
loss of Farmland, to non-agricultural use? (Aerial photographs)
III. AIR QUALITY. Where available, the significance criteria established
by the applicable air quality management or air pollution control
district may be relied upon to make the following determinations.
Would the project:
Potentially
Potentially Significant Less Than
Significant Unless Significant No
Impact Mitigated Impact Impact
X
X
X
X
X
X
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a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable Air
Quality Attainment Plan or Congestion Management Plan? (SCAQMD
CEQA Handbook)
b) Violate any stationary source air quality standard or contribute to an
existing or projected air quality violation? (SCAQMD CEQA
Handbook)
c) Result in a 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)? (SCAQMD CEQA
Handbook)
d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations?
(Specific Plan Project Descr.)
e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people?
(Specific Plan Project Descr.)
IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES: Would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse impact, 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 or U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service? (Biological Assessment, James Cornett, April, 1999)
b) Have a substantial adverse impact on any riparian habitat or other
sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans,
policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game
or US Fish and Wildlife Service? (Biological Assessment, James
Cornett, April, 1999)
c) Adversely impact federally protected wetlands (including, but not
limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) Either individually or in
combination with the known or probable impacts of other activities
through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other
means? (Biological Assessment, James Comett, April, 1999)
d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any resident or
migratory fish or wildlife species or with established resident or
migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of wildlife nursery
sites? (Biological Assessment, James Cornett, April, 1999)
e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological
resources such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? (La Quints
Municipal Code; General Plan)
f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation
Plan, Natural Conservation Community Plan, or other approved local,
regional, or state habitat conservation plan? (Master Environmental
Assessment 5-5)
V. CULTURAL RESOURCES: Would the project:
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X
X
X
X
X
X
X
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a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical
resource which is either listed or eligible for listing on the National
Register of Historic Places, the California Register of Historic
Resources, or a local register of historic resources? (ASM Affiliates,
Archaeological Investigation, April, 2000)
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a unique
archaeological resources (i.e., an artifact, object, or site about which it
can be clearly demonstrated that, without merely adding to the current
body of knowledge, there is a high probability that it contains
information needed to answer important scientific research questions,
has a special and particular quality such as being the oldest or best
available example of its type, or is directly associated with a
scientifically recognized important prehistoric or historic event or
person)? (ASM Affiliates, Archaeological Investigation, April, 2000)
c) Disturb or destroy a unique paleontological resource or site?
(Paleontology Lakebed Map)
d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of
formal cemeteries? (ASM Affiliates, Archaeological Investigation,
April, 2000)
VI. GEOLOGY AND 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? (General Plan FIR, Exhibit 4.2-3, page 4-35)
ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? (General Plan EIR, page 4-30 ff.)
iii) Seismic -related ground failure, including liquefaction? (General
Plan EIR, page 4-30 ff.)
iv) Landslides? (General Plan FIR, page 4-30 ff.)
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? (Soil
Engineering Report, Earth Systems Consultants, January, 1999)
c) Be located on a geological 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 landslides, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or
collapse? (Soil Engineering Report, Earth Systems Consultants,
January, 1999)
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d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-I-B of the
Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or
property? (Soil Engineering Report, Earth Systems Consultants,
January, 1999)
e)Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks
or alternative waste water disposal system where sewers are not
available for the disposal of waste water? (Master Environmental
Assessment 5-32)
VII. 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?
(Application Materials)
b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through
reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the
likely release of hazardous materials into the environment?
(Application Materials)
c) Reasonably be anticipated to emit hazardous materials, substances,
or waste within one -quarter mile of an existing or proposed school?
(Application Materials)
d) Is the project located on a site which is included on a list of
hazardous materials sites complied pursuant to Government Code
Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to
the public or the environment? (Riverside County Hazardous Materials
Listing)
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? (General Plan land use map)
t) 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? (General Plan land use map)
g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted
emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? (Master
Environmental Assessment 6-11)
h) Expose people or structures to the risk of loss, injury or death
involving wildlands fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to
urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands?
(General Plan land use map)
Vlll. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY: Would the project:
a) Violate Regional Water Quality Control Board water quality
standards or waste discharge requirements? (Master Environmental
Assessment 6-26, 6-27)
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
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b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially
with groundwater recharge such that there would he a net deficit in
aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (i.e.,
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? (General Plan EIR, page 4-57 ff.)
c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area,
including through the alteration of the course of stream or river, in a
manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off -
site? (Specific Plan Hydrology Study)
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? (Specific Plan
Hydrology Study)
e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity
of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems to control ?
(Specific Plan Hydrology Study)
t) Place housing within a 100-year floodplain, as mapped on a federal
Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood
hazard delineation map? (Master Environmental Assessment 6-13)
g) Place within a 100-year floodplain structures which would impede or
redirect flood flows? (Master Environmental Assessment 6-13)
IX. LAND USE AND PLANNING: Would the project:
a) Physically divide an established community? (Specific Plan Project
Description)
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 costal program, or zoning
ordinance) adopted for the purposes of avoiding or mitigating an
environmental effect? (Master Environmental Assessment 2-11)
c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural
communities conservation plan? (Master Environmental Assessment 5-
5)
X. MINERAL RESOURCES: Would the project:
X
X
X
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a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource
classified MRZ-2 by the State Geologist that would be of value to the
region and the residents of the state? (Master Environmental
Assessment 5-29) X
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XI.
XII.
XIII.
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? (Master Environmental Assessment 5-29) X
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? (Douglas Filar & Associates,
Acoustical Analysis, April, 2000)
b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundborne
vibration or groundborne noise levels? (Douglas Eilar & Associates,
Acoustical Analysis, April, 2000)
c) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels
in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project?
(Douglas Eilar & Associates, Acoustical Analysis, April, 2000)
d) 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? (Master Environmental
Assessment)
e) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the
project expose people residing or working in the project area to
excessive levels? (General Plan map)
POPULATION AND 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) ? (General
Plan, page 2-14)
b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the
construction of replacement housing elsewhere? (Application
Materials; site visit)
c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the
construction of replacement housing elsewhere? (Application
Materials; site visit)
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:
Fire protection? (General Plan MEA, page 4-3 ff. )
Police protection? (General Plan MEA, page 4-3 ff. )
X
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X
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XIV
XV
XVI.
Schools? (General Plan MEA, page 4-9 ff. )
Parks? (General Plan; Recreation and Parks Master Plan)
Other public facilities? (General Plan MEA, page 4-14 ff. )
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?
(Application Materials)
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? (Application Materials)
TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC: Would the project:
a) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in relation to the
existing traffic load and capacity of the street system (i.e., result in a
substantial increase in either the number of vehicle trips, the volume to
capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at intersections)? (Korve
Engineering, Traffic Analysis, November, 1999)
b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of service
standard established by the county congestion management agency for
designated roads or highways? (Korve Engineering, Traffic Analysis,
November, 1999)
c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either an increase
in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety
risks? (Korve Engineering, Traffic Analysis, November, 1999)
d) Substantially increase hazards to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves
or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm
equipment)? (Korve Engineering, Traffic Analysis, November, 1999)
e) Result in inadequate emergency access? (Application Materials)
f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? (Application Materials)
g) Conflict with adopted policies supporting alternative transportation
(e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks) ? (Korve Engineering, Traffic
Analysis, November, 1999)
UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS: Would the project:
X
X
X
U
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable
Regional Water Quality Control Board? (General Plan MEA, page 4-24 X
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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? (General Plan
MEA, page 4-24 )
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? (General Plan MEA,
page 4-27)
d) Are sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from
existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded
entitlements needed? (General Plan MEA, page 4-20)
e) Has the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the
project determined that it has adequate capacity to serve the project's
projected demand in addition to the provider's existing commitments?
(General Plan MEA, page 4-20)
f) Is the project served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity
to accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs?(General Plan
MEA, page 4-28)
XVII. 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 the potential to achieve short-term, to the
disadvantage of long-term, environmental goals? ( )
c) 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
project, and the effects of probable future projects)? ( )
d) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause
substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or
indirectly? ( )
XVIII EARLIER ANALYSES.
Earlier analyses may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program
FIR, or other CEQA process, one or more effects have been adequately
analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section
15063(c)(3)(D). In this case a discussion should identify the following
on attached sheets.
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a) Earlier analyses used. Identify earlier analyses and state where they
are available for review.
No earlier analyses specific to this project site have been used.
b) Impacts adequately addressed. Identify which effects from the
above checklist were within the scope of 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.
Not applicable.
c) Mitigation measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant
with Mitigation 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.
See attached Addendum.
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SOURCES:
Master Environmental Assessment, City of La Quinta General Plan 1992.
SCAQMD CEQA Handbook.
General Plan, City of La Quinta, 1992.
Paleontological Lakebed Delineation Map, City of La Quinta.
City of La Quinta Municipal Code
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Addendum to Environmental Checklist, EA 2000-394
I. a) Washington Street is designated a Primary Image Corridor in the City's General
Plan. This designation ensures that special setback standards and landscaping
are included in project development. The Specific Plan and Site Plan show that
the project proponent will meet the City's standards for both landscaping and
setbacks, thereby reducing the potential impacts to a level of insignificance.
a), c) & d)
The project site is currently vacant desert land. The construction of the
proposed project, and installation of parking lot and festival ground lighting, will
therefore have an impact, both on- and off -site. The Specific Plan includes the
use of portable light standards for evening events only in parking areas. The
Specific Plan further states that the City's standards for lighting will be adhered
to. The closest point from a parking area to the boundary of Laguna de la Paz
is approximately 40 feet. This distance is comprised of landscaping and
berming, which will serve to obstruct lighting from the site. Finally, the parking
areas are proposed to be 2 to 3 feet below the grade of the adjacent residential
development, which will lower the level of headlights within the parking lots.
With the implementation of the following mitigation measures, the impacts from
light and glare should be reduced to a less than significant level.
All lighting on light standards, whether portable or permanent, shall be
angled downward, so as not to illuminate adjacent land uses.
2. All lighting on the project site shall conform to the City's Zoning
Ordinance.
3. Lighting on the festival grounds for evening events shall be angled away
from residential development to the south and from the hillsides, and
shall not be located any closer than 50 feet from the southern property
boundary.
II. a) & c)
The site of the proposed project is not used for agricultural purposes.
III. c) & d)
The traffic analysis for the project site states that average daily attendance at
the site can be expected to be between 120 to 250 persons, including staff and
visitors. The emissions from the vehicles which enter and leave the site on a
daily basis will not constitute a significant impact.
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The Specific Plan states that during a major event (of which there will be 5 a
year), 9,000 people will attend in one day, at an average of 2.2 persons per
vehicle'. This, combined with volunteer, staff and artists' trips, could result in
more than 8,500 trips per day being generated at the project site (4,250 to the
site and 4,250 from the site).
The primary source of pollutants at the project site will be vehicular emissions.
The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) has established
standards and formulas by which vehicular emissions can be estimated.
SCAQMD standards are based on daily thresholds, which, as demonstrated in
the table below, will not be exceeded even during major events.
Running Exhaust Emissions
(pounds/day)
PM10 PM10 PM10
CO ROC NOx Exhaust Brakes Tires
50 mph 351.3 13.5 72.1 0.0 1.5 1.5
Daily
Threshold* 550 75 100 150
Based on 8,500 trips/day and average trip length of 8.0 miles, using EMFAC7G Model provided by
California Air Resources Board. Assumes catalytic light autos at 75°F. * Operational thresholds
provided by SCAQMD for assistance in determining the significance of a project.
The Table demonstrates that the emissions from a major event at the project
site will not exceed thresholds for significance. Therefore, it is assumed that
medium (5,000 people) events are not expected to exceed the SCAQMD
standards.
The grading process is expected to occur in one phase, and is expected to take
approximately 30 working days. The process will require two scrapers, one
wheeled bulldozer and one water truck, each of which will operate for
approximately eight hours per day. The following table describes the PM10
emissions expected to occur during the grading process, and demonstrates that
grading is not expected to generate PM10 emissions which exceed SCAQMD's
construction emissions thresholds.
"La Quinta Ads Foundation Specific Plan," prepared by Warner Engineering, April, 2000.
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Construction -Related PM10 Emissions
(pounds)
Project Generated Emissions SCAQMD Thresholds
Daily 9.96
Quarterly 298.8
150
13,500
Source: Table A9-8-A, and page 6-4, "CEQA Air Quality Handbook," South Coast Air Quality
Management District, 1993.
The Coachella Valley has in the past been a non -attainment area for PM10
(particulate matter of 10 microns or smaller). Recent analysis by SQAQMD has
determined that the Valley has reached attainment, and a redesignation is
pending. In order to control PM10, the City has imposed standards and
requirements on development to control dust. SCAQMD also suggests
mitigation for vehicular emissions, which are integrated into the following
mitigation measures:
1. No earth moving activity shall be undertaken without the review and
approval of a PM10 Management Plan. The applicant shall submit same
to the City Engineer for each earth moving activity.
2. A PM10 Management Plan shall be prepared by the applicant for the
maintenance of the parking areas and festival grounds. Said management
plan shall be reviewed and approved by the City Engineer prior to the
initiation of the first public event on the project site.
3. Construction equipment shall be properly maintained and serviced to
minimize exhaust emissions.
4. Existing power sources should be utilized where feasible via temporary
power poles to avoid on -site power generation.
5. Construction personnel shall be informed of ride sharing and transit
opportunities.
6. Construction parking and heavy equipment storage shall be located on
the north property boundary.
7. Cut and fill quantities will be balanced on site.
8. Any portion of the site to be graded shall be pre -watered to a depth of
three feet prior to the onset of grading activities.
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9. Watering of the site or other soil stabilization method shall be employed
on an on -going basis after the initiation of any grading activity on the
site. Portions of the site that are actively being graded shall be watered
regularly to ensure that a crust is formed on the ground surface, and shall
be watered at the end of each work day.
10. All disturbed areas shall be treated to prevent erosion until the site is
constructed upon. Pad sites which are to remain undeveloped shall be
seeded with either a desert wildflower mix or grass seed.
11 . Landscaped areas shall be installed as soon as possible to reduce the
potential for wind erosion.
12. SCAQMD Rule 403 shall be adhered to, insuring the clean up of
construction -related dirt on approach routes to the site.
13. Construction roads other than temporary access roads shall be paved as
soon as possible, and once paved shall be cleaned after each work day.
All unpaved roads shall be posted with a 15 mile per hour speed limit.
14. All grading activities shall be suspended during first and second stage
ozone episodes or when winds exceed 25 miles per hour.
15. All buildings on the project site shall conform to energy use guidelines in
Title 24 of the California Administrative Code.
16. The project shall provide for non -motorized transportation facilities and
shall implement all feasible measures to encourage the use of alternate
transportation measures.
17. Bicycle racks and/or other mandated alternative transportation provisions
shall be included in project design, in conformance with City ordinances
in effect at the time of development.
18. Low pressure sodium vapor lights shall be considered to reduce power
plant emissions.
19. The project proponent shall comply with all applicable SCAQMD Rules
and Regulations.
With the implementation of these mitigation measures, the impacts to air quality
from the proposed project will not be significant. Moreover, Improvements in
technology which are likely to reduce impacts, particularly from motor vehicles
or the transit route improvements in the future which may occur at the project
site are not included in the analysis. Further, the air quality impacts from the
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proposed project falls within what was studied in the General Plan EIR. The City
determined at that time that air quality impacts associated with the buildout of
the City required a Statement of Overriding Considerations, which determined
that the impacts to air quality of development of the Plan would be cumulatively
significant when considered in conjunction with regional development, and that
the City would implement all feasible measures to reduce emissions within its
boundaries.
In conclusion, neither the construction nor the operation of the proposed
project, therefore, is not expected to have a significant impact on air quality
resources.
IV. a), b) d) & f)
A biological resource study was prepared for the proposed project by James W.
Cornett2. In addition, an Interim Biological Review, as provided in the
Memorandum of Understanding forthe Multi -Species Habitat Conservation Plan,
was held on April 17, 2000. Finally, an on -site investigation specifically to
detect the occurrence of Coachella Valley Milk Vetch was conducted on April
20 and 21, 20003.
The biological resource analysis, which included on -site surveying of the project
site, found that the Palm Springs ground squirrel does occur on site. The
Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard, desert tortoise and the flat -tailed horned
lizard were not detected. Peninsular bighorn sheep are not believed to be
present on the site. No invertebrate analysis was performed on the project site.
The proposed project will result in the loss of 28 acres of desert habitat,
including several mesquite hummocks. The project site is, however, isolated and
already impacted by urban development, including development to the north,
south and east, and illegal dumping activities which have occurred on -site.
The proposed project occurs within the boundaries of the Coachella Valley
Fringe -toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan. As such, the project proponent
shall be required to contribute $100 per acre to the appropriate agency for the
purchase of off -site habitat.
Based on the biological resource analysis, the consultation with the California
Department of Fish and Game and U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the milk
vetch investigation conducted on this site, the following mitigation measures
shall be implemented:
2 `Biological Assessment and Impact Analysis," prepared by James W. Comett, April, 1999.
3 Letter report from James W Comet, Apnl 24, 2000.
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1 . Bighorn Sheep Fencing.
The Foundation shall actively and on an on -going basis monitor the
project site any signs that bighorn sheep are entering the site. The
Foundation shall request a list of indicators used to identify sheep
presence from DFG prior to grading of the site. The Foundation shall take
steps to ensure that any observations of bighorn sheep on or near the
project site are reported to DFG and the City immediately. If information
suggests that bighorn sheep are entering the project site, the Foundation
shall construct, at its expense, an 8-foot fence between the development
and the hillside. The fence shall not contain gaps of greater than 11
centimeters (4.3 inches). The Foundation shall notify DFG immediately
upon receipt of the information suggesting that bighorn sheep are
entering onto the project site, and seek any further guidance DFG has to
offer regarding the construction of the fence. The fence shall be
constructed within three months of the receipt of information suggesting
that bighorn sheep are entering onto the project site. If requested to do
so by DFG, the Foundation shall, at its expense, construct temporary
fencing to the specifications of DFG to prevent bighorn sheep from
entering the project site pending construction of the fence. Any and all
fencing constructed will be subject to the City's Hillside Conservation
Overlay District.
2. Pesticides.
The Foundation shall submit a plan, approved by a biologist, which
demonstrates that all pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, and fertilizers
used on the site will not be harmful wildlife.
3. Lights.
The Foundation shall submit a lighting plan to the City for review and
approval. The plan shall avoid the illumination of the hillsides adjacent
to the project site. All exterior lighting shall be aimed away from the
hillside.
4. Landscaping.
The Foundation shall prepare and submit for approval a landscaping plan
which will not expose wildlife to toxic materials. All exotic or toxic
plans, such as Oleander and Prunis, and plants which are known to
invade or degrade bighorn sheep habitat, such as tamarisk, fountain
grass, shall be strictly prohibited. The landscape plan shall be approved
by a certified biologist, which approval shall state that the proposed
landscape materials are not known to be harmful to wildlife.
5. 2081 Permit.
If required by law to do so, the Foundation shall obtain a 2081 permit
from CDFG.
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6. No connection to hillside trails.
The Foundation shall design its project so as not to facilitate persons to
enter onto the hillsides from the project site. To the extent that any
portion of the project site begins to be used by persons to enter into the
hillsides, the Foundation shall post notices discouraging such use.
7. Coachella Valley Fringe -toed Lizard.
The project proponent shall contribute $1 OO per acre in compliance with
the requirements of the Coachella Valley Fringe -toed Lizard Habitat
Conservation Plan. Should a Section 2081 permit be required for this
project, the fee paid shall be credited from any and all mitigation
measures imposed by the 2081 permit.
V. a) & d)
Two cultural resource investigations were conducted for the project site. The
first consisted of a site investigation and report, which recorded a potentially
significant site, and recommended further analysis'. The second consisted of an
on -site excavation of the recorded site'. The project site includes three
previously recorded sites, and one site recorded during the first site survey in
1998. Testing and data recovery had previously been completed on the three
previously recorded sites in 1991. The occurrence of multiple mesquite
hummocks makes it likely that additional resources are located on site, and
careful grading and on -site monitoring were recommended in the first study. The
second study, completed to report on the testing and data recovery at CA-RIV-
6214. This process concluded that the site is not significant beyond the
recovery performed for the study. Because there have been previously deeply
buried sites found in this area under sand dunes, the following mitigation
measure shall be implemented:
An archaeological monitor shall be on site during any grubbing, earth
moving or excavating activity. Should a resource be identified by the
monitor, he or she shall be empowered to halt or redirect grading
activities while the resource is properly identified and studied. The
monitor shall file a report with the City of his or her findings, including
disposition of any resource identified.
V1..a) i)
The proposed project does not lie in an Alquist-Priolo hazard area. No known
earthquake fault occurs within several miles of the proposed project. The
potential impact for fault rupture is not expected to be significant.
4 "A Cultural Resources Inventory and Evaluation of the La Duinta Arts Center Project,' prepared by ASM Affiliates, December, 1998.
5 "Archaeological Investigations at CA-RNfi214_..'prepared by ASM Affiliates. April, 2000,
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VI. a) ii)
The proposed project occurs in a Zone III groundshaking zone. The City has
adopted the provisions of the Uniform Building Code for this hazard.
Construction of any structure on the project site will conform to these
standards, and will reduce the potential hazard to a less than significant level.
VI. a) iii)
The proposed project does not occur in a liquefaction hazard area. The depth to
groundwater in the project area is estimated to be more than 50 feet6. The soils
on the site are loose silty sand, which has the potential to shift in a seismic
event. The soil engineering report prepared for the proposed project
recommends over -excavation and recompaction of the site in any area where
structures are proposed. The findings of the report are preliminary, and not
based on construction plans. The City's standards for site preparation and
geologic analysis, as detailed below, will reduce this potential impact to a less
than significant level.
VI. a) iv)
The proposed project occurs adjacent to the foothills of the Santa Rosa
Mountains. During a significant seismic event, it can be expected that rocks
from the adjacent hillsides will fall to or near the site. The proposed site plan,
however, does not propose construction of any structure within 250 feet of the
western property line. This distance will provide sufficient buffer to minimize the
potential impacts of rockfall on the proposed project.
VI. b) As discussed above, the soils on the proposed site are loose silty sand. As
such, unstable soil conditions can occur from improper grading or excavation.
The City's standards for site preparation shall be adhered to in all site
preparation activities. In order to reduce the impacts of unstable soils on the
proposed site, the following mitigation measure shall be implemented:
1 . Prior to issuance of a grading permit for any structure on the proposed
site, the applicant shall submit, for review and approval by the City
Engineer, a detailed, site specific soil study, which shall include
recommendations designed for the specific structure being constructed.
VI. c) As discussed previously, the proposed project occurs adjacent to the Santa
Rosa Mountains. Steep hillsides rise from the property's western boundary, and
represent an important geologic feature for the City. The proposed project does
not, however, propose to disturb any area within the toe -of -slope, as defined
in the City's Hillside Preservation Ordinance. Insofar as no development will
occur in the toe -of -slope, the significant geological feature will be preserved,
and there is not expected to be a significant impact.
6 "Soil Engineering Report," prepared by Earth Systems Consultants, January, 1999.
CAMy Documents\WPDOCS\EA Arts F Addendum. WP68apd
VIII. a)
The water to be retained in the parking lots will be contaminated by the oils,
gasoline and other chemicals leaked from vehicles in the parking lots over a long
period of time. These hazardous materials can potentially percolate into the soils
below the parking lots, and eventually contaminate groundwater. Technology
exists which can reduce these potential impacts to a less than significant level.
The following mitigation measures shall be implemented:
1 . The applicant shall submit to the City Engineer for review and approval,
a comprehensive storm water management plan, prior to the issuance of
grading permits. The plan shall describe any and all "water cleaning"
technologies to be implemented on the project site. Such devices could
include, but are not limited to oil separators, interceptors and swales.
2. All drainage facilities shall be maintained to a level acceptable to the City
Engineer.
VIII. b)
Although the proposed project will utilize water for irrigation and in its
operation, the potential impacts are expected to be less than significant. The
proposed project will utilize water in quantities far lower than those which could
be expected from residential development on the site. In addition, the use of
parking lots as retention basins enables water to be recharged into the
groundwater basin. Finally, irrigation water will also percolate into the ground,
and be eventually re -absorbed into the groundwater basin.
Domestic water is provided by the Coachella Valley Water District, which
extracts groundwater from a number of wells in the Lower Thermal sub -basin.
The impacts to domestic water supplies are not expected to be significant, since
limited activity on the site, combined with percolation from storm water
retention and irrigation, will lower the impacts to the aquifer.
VIII. c) & d)
Any development proposal reduces the amount of natural terrain available for
percolation, and changes drainage patterns. The proposed project will be largely
unpaved, and will consist of parking areas covered with decomposed granite or
similar material. The areas of the development project which will be paved for
roads, the amphitheatre area, and the restroom and office/education buildings
will no longer be able to absorb surface runoff.
The City requires all development proposals to retain flows generated by the
100 year, 24 hour storm on -site. This requirement contains drainage to the site
on which it occurs, and in this case, will also assure the safe routing and
discharge of flows from the hillside. Altogether, the site must contain 13.26
acre feet. A series of debris and retention basins will be required. The City
Engineer will impose conditions of approval on the proposed project which will
require that the applicant prepare plans and studies which meet the City's
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standards, contain on -site and off -site flows, and provide an acceptable safety
factor. These conditions of approval will provide for sufficient mitigation to
reduce the potential impacts to an acceptable level.
The location of the parking areas and festival grounds within retention basins
poses a potential significant impact on people visiting the proposed project.
Storms in the desert are frequently sudden, of short duration, and of large
volume. The Specific Plan states that the facility will not be used during periods
of imminent storms. However, the occurrence of sudden storms, the large
number of people and vehicles which could be on -site, and the rapid filling of
retention areas is a potential hazard. In order to minimize the potential impacts
to people from flooding hazards, the following mitigation measures shall be
implemented:
The Foundation shall coordinate with the City's emergency preparedness
staff, and shall prepare, for review and approval, an emergency
evacuation plan for all areas of the project site.
2. The Foundation shall establish a formal emergency preparedness training
program. All volunteers and paid staff shall participate in training to
familiarize them with emergency evacuation procedures at the site.
3. There shall be no activities in the festival grounds, and all parking areas
shall be cleared of vehicles at any time when the National Weather
Service issues a severe storm warning for the La Quinta area.
4. All debris basins shall be maintained to a level acceptable to the City
Engineer.
IX. b) The General Plan and Zoning designation for the proposed project are Low
Density Residential. The project includes a proposed Specific Plan which will
delineate the permitted uses. The proposed project represents a departure from
the identified primary land use for the property, namely, low density residential
development. The General Plan does not prohibit the proposed use in its
policies and programs. The Specific Plan, if approved, will authorize the uses.
The Zoning Ordinance expressly provides for these uses with the review and
approval of a conditional use and minor use permit. A conditional use permit has
been submitted as part of this application, and minor use permits will also be
applied for in the future as required by the Zoning Ordinance. The project is not
in conflict with any applicable environmental plans or policies, including those
set forth in the City's General Plan.
The proposed project will occur adjacent to existing low density residential
development (Laguna de la Paz). The proposed uses include art festivals,
entertainment events in both the daytime and evening hours, educational
programs, and administrative office uses. The Specific Plan document identifies
CAMy DocumentsMPDOMEA Arts F Addendum. WPS.Wpd
art festival and concert events which, if held sequentially, would occur on 115
days during the year. In addition, educational and gallery events in the proposed
60,000 square foot building would occur on 175 days per year, and
administrative activities will be on -going. This represents a more intense level
of activity than would be expected in a low density residential development.
The existing low density residential to the south of the proposed project could
be significantly impacted by such a level of activity, if no mitigation measures
were proposed.
The Specific Plan proposes several design features intended to mitigate the
impacts of the proposed project on adjacent residential development, as follows:
* The installation of 3 to 4 foot high berms along the southerly boundary of the
proposed project adjacent to the general parking area only.
*Along the southern boundary adjacent to the festival grounds area of the
project, a wall extending 3 to 4 feet above the existing Laguna de la Paz wall
is proposed.
*Along the southern boundary adjacent to the artists' parking area, a 9'6" berm
is proposed.
In order to mitigate the potential impacts of the proposed project on the
residents of Laguna de la Paz, the following mitigation measures shall be
implemented:
1 . For all events, the northerly portion of the general parking area shall be
filled prior to the opening of the southerly general parking area for use.
2. "Set up" and "break down" activities in the festival grounds shall
conform to the City's hours for construction activities, as stipulated in
the noise ordinance.
3. All parking areas, especially the artists' parking area, shall be posted "No
overnight parking." In addition, artists' vehicles shall not be allowed to
idle, or to operate generators during festival events.
4. Temporary bathroom facilities shall not be located within 300 feet of the
southern property line.
5. The future restroom facility proposed for the southeastern corner of the
festival grounds shall be relocated and shall be at least 300 feet from the
southern property line.
6. All construction, including the construction of parking lots and the
festival grounds, shall be subject to a Site Development Permit.
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XI. a), b) & c)
A noise impact analysis was performed for the proposed project'. The noise
analysis found that current conditions at the project site include a 70 dBA CNEL
noise level at a distance of 100 feet from the center line of Washington Street.
Future (2015) ambient noise levels are expected to reach 75 dba CNEL at the
eastern property boundary, and to be between 60 and 65 dBA CNEL at the
western property boundary. The noise analysis also included monitoring of La
Quinta Arts Festival events during the month of March, 2000. The analysis
included monitoring of entertainment events, a diesel power generator used to
power festival lighting, a dining area within the festival grounds, artist booths
and mobile noise sources.
The analysis found that the loudest source of noise during the festival was the
entertainment stage, and that at a distance of 50 feet, a noise level of 81 dB
Leq was recorded. That noise level fell to 60 dB Leq at 225 feet from the stage.
This noise reduction was in great part due to the sound -absorbing properties of
the artist booths.
The monitoring data was then applied to the proposed project site. The results
of this analysis are summarized below.
Musical Performances: The analysis found that if small, directional speakers are
utilized at the amphitheatre, a noise level of less than 50 dB can be expected
at the residential units at Laguna de la Paz, and 75 dB in the open space areas
to the west.
Public Address Systems: The impact of such a system will be less than that of
a musical event, provided all public address microphones are directed in a
northerly direction. The analysis further recommends that public address use
cease during evening hours.
On -site Traffic and Parking Areas: The noise emitted from parking vehicles is not
expected to be a significant impact, particularly as the 70 dB noise contour
occurs on the site, in the area of the parking lots.
Only small, directional speakers, pointed in a northwesterly direction,
shall be installed or utilized at the amphitheatre. No speakers or
amplification of any kind shall be utilized within the amphitheater
between 11 p.m. and 10 a.m., and no events shall be held in the
amphitheater between 12 a.m. and 10 a.m.
2. All public address system speakers shall be pointed in a northerly
direction.
"Acoustical Analysis Repti prepared by Douglas Eilar 8 Associates, April, 2000,
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XII. a)
3. All public address system use shall cease between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m.
4. Signs shall be posted in the southern General Parking Area requesting
that care be taken to disable automobile alarm systems in consideration
of the residential land uses to the south.
5. A solid barrier shall be constructed along the eastern and southern
boundaries of the proposed project. The barrier may be a berm or wall,
but in either case shall have no gaps. If a berm is constructed, it shall be
5 feet in height. If a wall is constructed, it shall be no less than 6 feet in
height. Such a barrier shall be designed to block the line of sight to
adjacent residences, and as such the computation of height shall be
based on the grade of the adjacent residences, since these grades are
higher than those planned for the proposed project.
6. The Foundation shall include, in all its agreements with outside
entertainment providers, a notice which advises the contractor that the
Foundation strives to provide a quiet noise environment on its grounds,
and shall further notify the contractor of mitigation measure no. 1, above.
7. The finished grade of the southern portion of the General Parking Area,
the Artists' Parking Area and the Festival grounds shall not be higher than
the parallel existing grades within Laguna de la Paz.
8. Construction equipment storage and maintenance shall be located at the
northern property line.
9. All construction equipment shall be equipped with mufflers, and shall be
maintained in good operating order.
10. All construction activity shall conform to the City's standards, included
in its Noise Ordinance.
11. The southerly General Parking Lot and Artists' Parking Lot shall be
cleared and closed by 12 a.m. whenever the site is in use.
The proposed project may indirectly induce growth, insofar as any City's
amenities and recreational opportunities influence a homebuyer's decision to
purchase. The location of the proposed project will provide for such added
recreational and cultural amenities. This potential impact, however, is not
expected to be significant.
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XIII. a)
The construction of the proposed project will result in short-term potential
impacts for both police and fire services. The gathering of a large number of
people for short periods of time increases the potential for a need for such
services. However, such short-term impacts are not expected to be significant,
if the following mitigation measures are implemented:
1 . All development plans shall be routed to the Fire and Police Departments
for review and comment. Once the project is complete, a final "as built"
site plan shall be provided to both agencies for their files.
2. All Minor Use Permits for the project site shall be transmitted to the Fire
and Police Departments for review, comment and conditions of approval.
3. The Foundation shall ensure that
officers, as required under item VI.
Police Department.
all activities of its traffic control
Above, shall be coordinated with the
All development has an impact on governmental facilities and services. The
Foundation will be required to participate in the City's Impact Fee Program,
which helps to offset roadway improvements. In addition, the revenues
generated by the site will result in sales tax for the City, which will offset any
needs for additional municipal services. The proposed project is not expected
to have a significant impact on municipal services or facilities.
XV. a)
The proposed project occurs on the west side of Washington Street, between
47th and 48th Avenues. A median island currently exists in Washington Street.
Washington Street has been recently improved to three lanes in both directions
from the 1-10 Freeway to the project site. No median break is planned for the
project site.
A traffic analysis was prepared for the proposed projects. The traffic analysis
concludes that the proposed project will generate up to 686 peak hour trips
during major events. It is further estimated in the traffic study that 45% of all
trips exiting the site will go east on 48th Avenue, 20% will go south on
Washington Street, and 35% will go north on Washington Street. The analysis
further concludes that traffic conditions in 2001, after project buildout, will
remain at current levels of service, and will not cause either the intersection of
Washington Street & 48th, or the intersection of Highway 111 & Washington
Street to drop below the City standard LOS D.
B "Traffic Study for La Quinta Arts Foundation Arts Center," prepared by Korve Engineering, Inc., November, 1999.
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The traffic analysis results in the following mitigation measures:
1. Traffic control officers shall be employed by the applicant during all
events occurring at the amphitheatre. Said traffic control officers shall be
stationed at the intersection of Washington Street and 48th, and
Washington Street and 47th before and after each performance.
2. The City shall monitor the need for traffic control officers during other
major events, and may require such officers through the Minor use Permit
process.
3. The Foundation will be required to participate in the City's Impact Fee
Program, which helps to offset roadway improvements
These mitigation measures will reduce the impacts of the proposed project to
a less than significant level.
XV. e)
The proposed project provides for paved access within 100- 150 feet of any
future structure, which will meet the requirements of the Fire Department.
Several gates within the proposed project will be conditioned to be equipped
with Knox Boxes or similar devices to enable emergency vehicles to get in. The
only area where a potential impact occurs is as regards the provision of
emergency medical treatment for an injured party in the festival grounds. The
following mitigation measure should reduce this potential impact to a level of
insignificance.
XV. f)
1 . The Foundation shall establish a medical response plan, in coordination
with the Fire Department, and shall have staff on -site at all events trained
in the implementation of such a plan.
The Specific Plan proposes a reduced parking standard for the project site.
Parking is proposed in several areas, most of which is located in the General
Parking lots at the eastern boundary of the project site. In addition, 340 parking
spaces are available through a reciprocal parking agreement with the adjacent
catholic church. The conditions of approval prepared for the project will require
that adequate on -site parking is provided. The following mitigation measures are
to be implemented:
1 . Parking shall be provided on site to accommodate the peak hour of a
major event (1,200 persons in one hour), concurrent with an event at the
amphitheatre (2,400 persons).
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2. No parking shall be permitted on Washington Street at any time.
3. The City shall monitor parking problems at major events, and shall
provide restrictions or additional conditions of approval through the Minor
Use Permit process should parking problems develop.
XV. g)
The proposed project does not indicate any parking spaces for bicycles on the
site. The Zoning Ordinance requires such a standard. In addition, the provision
of such parking will encourage non -motorized travel and reduce emissions from
vehicles. Further, the site occurs along a SunLine Transit bus route. The use of
public transportation to and from events at the site should be encouraged.
The following mitigation measures shall be implemented:
1. Bicycle parking shall be provided in conformance with the standards
established in the City's Zoning Ordinance.
2. The applicant shall provide a bus turnout, bus stop and amenities
including a shelter, bench and trash receptacles along the property
boundary, to the satisfaction of both SunLine Transit and the City.
XV. b) c) & f)
The construction of the proposed project will have a limited impact on sanitary
sewers, storm drainage, solid waste disposal and water supplies. However, as
a non -continuous use, the impacts can be expected to be less than those of a
residential development on the proposed site. The overall impacts of the project
on these services is not expected to be significant.
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