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LQ Village Buildout Plan EIR No. 2015101019 DRAFT
The Village Build -out Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report City of La Quinta, California Lead Agency: City of La Quinta Planning Division 78-495 Calle Tampico La Quinta, CA 92253 Prepared by: The Altum Group 73-710 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 L J-4 15 The Altum Group August 2016 List of Acronyms Chapter 1 Executive Summary..............................................................................................1-1 1.1 Overview of the Executive Summary...........................................................................1-1 1.2 Summary of the Proposed Action................................................................................1-1 1.3 Alternatives to the Proposed Project..........................................................................1-3 1.4 Areas of Contreversy/Issues to be Resolved...............................................................1-6 1.5 Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures...........................................................1-6 Chapter2 Introduction.........................................................................................................2-1 2.1 Overview of and Authority for the EIR.........................................................................2-1 2.2 Review of the EIR.........................................................................................................2-1 2.3 Scope of the EIR...........................................................................................................2-2 2.4 Organization of the EIR................................................................................................2-4 2.5 Reference Documents..................................................................................................2-6 Chapter 3 Project Description..............................................................................................3-1 3.1 Overview......................................................................................................................3-1 3.2 Project Location and Setting........................................................................................3-2 3.3 Project Description.....................................................................................................3-25 3.4 Other Public Agencies................................................................................................3-40 3.5 Cumulative Projects to be Evaluated with the Proposed Project..............................3-41 Chapter 4 Environmental Setting.........................................................................................4-1 4.1 Aesthetics.....................................................................................................................4-1 4.2 Agricultural Resources.................................................................................................4-2 4.3 Air Quality....................................................................................................................4-2 4.4 Biological Resources.....................................................................................................4-4 4.5 Cultural Resources.......................................................................................................4-5 4.6 Geology........................................................................................................................4-7 4.7 Global Climate Change/Greenhouse Gases.................................................................4-9 4.8 Hazards and Hazardous Materials.............................................................................4-10 4.9 Hydrology and Water Quality....................................................................................4-10 4.10 Land Use and Planning...............................................................................................4-13 4.11 Noise..........................................................................................................................4-13 4.12 Population and Housing.............................................................................................4-14 4.13 Public Services and Utilities.......................................................................................4-15 4.14 Recreation..................................................................................................................4-19 4.15 Transportation/Traffic...............................................................................................4-20 Chapter 5 Environmental Impact Analysis............................................................................5-1 5.0 Introduction.................................................................................................................5-1 5.1 Aesthetics..................................................................................................................5.1-1 5.2 Air Quality.................................................................................................................5.2-1 List of Acronyms 5.3 Biological Resources..................................................................................................5.3-1 5.4 Cultural Resources....................................................................................................5.4-1 5.5 Geology and Soils......................................................................................................5.5-1 5.6 Greenhouse Gas Emissions.......................................................................................5.6-1 5.7 Hazards and Hazardous Materials............................................................................5.7-1 5.8 Hydrology and Water Quality...................................................................................5.8-1 5.9 Land Use and Planning..............................................................................................5.9-1 5.10 Noise.......................................................................................................................5.10-1 5.11 Population and Housing..........................................................................................5.11-1 5.12 Public Services.........................................................................................................5.12-1 5.13 Recreation...............................................................................................................5.13-1 5.14 Traffic and Circulation.............................................................................................5.14-1 5.15 Utilities and Service Systems..................................................................................5.15-1 Chapter 6 Other CEQA Required Sections.............................................................................6-1 6.1 Introduction.................................................................................................................6-1 6.2 Significant Environmental Effects Which Cannot be Avoided.....................................6-1 6.3 Significant Irreversible Environmental Changes..........................................................6-6 6.4 Growth Inducing Impacts...........................................................................................6-10 6.5 Effects Found not to be Significant............................................................................6-10 Chapter 7 Alternatives to the Proposed Project....................................................................7-1 7.1 Introduction.................................................................................................................7-1 7.2 Project Description and Objectives..............................................................................7-3 7.3 Impacts of the Proposed Project.................................................................................7-4 7.4 Alternatives to the Proposed Project..........................................................................7-5 7.5 Alternative Impact Evaluation...................................................................................7-31 7.6 Environmentally Superior Alternative.......................................................................7-31 Chapter8 List of Preparers...................................................................................................8-1 Chapter9 References...........................................................................................................9-1 List of Tables Table 1-1 Existing and Potential New Development in the Village Build -out Plan ProjectArea..........................................................................................................1-2 Table 1-2 Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternatives.......................................1-5 Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures ...........1-7 Table 3-1 Existing Conditions in the Project Area................................................................3-3 Table 3-2 Existing and Potential New Development in the Project Area.............................3-3 Table 3-3 Build -out Assumptions by Area..........................................................................3-27 List of Acronyms Table 3-4 Implementation Process for Parking Management Strategies ..........................3-39 Table 3-5 Build -out Assumptions by Area..........................................................................3-41 Table 3-6 Permitting Agencies............................................................................................3-41 Table 3-7 List of Cumulative Projects.................................................................................3-45 Table 5.2-1 State and Federal Criteria Pollutant Standards.................................................5.2-3 Table 5.2-2 Salton Sea Air Basin Attainment Status.............................................................5.2-4 Table 5.2-3 Air Quality Monitoring Summary....................................................................5.2-15 Table 5.10-6 Table 5.2-4 SCAQMD Air Quality Significance Thresholds for Coachella Valley ................5.2-17 Table 5.11-1 Table 5.2-5 Regional Construction -Related Pollutant Emissions.......................................5.2-24 Table 5.11-2 Table 5.2-6 Unmitigated Regional Operational Pollutant Emissions.................................5.2-26 Table 5.11-3 Table 5.2-7 Mitigated Regional Operational Pollutant Emissions......................................5.2-27 Table 5.11-4 Table 5.2-8 Maximum Number of Acres Distributed Per Day............................................5.2-28 Table 5.2-9 Local Construction Emissions at the Nearest Receptors.................................5.2-29 Table 5.3-1 Special Status Species........................................................................................5.3-7 Table 5.4-1 Previously Identified Resources........................................................................5.4-3 Table 5.4-2 Potential for Direct and Indirect Effects..........................................................5.4-10 Table 5.6-1 Global Warming Potentials and Atmospheric Lifetimes...................................5.6-4 Table 5.6-2 Unmitigated Project -Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions..............................5.6-15 Table 5.6-3 Year 2035 Mitigated Project -Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions .................. 5.6-17 Table 5.6-4 Year 2005 Baseline Project -Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions .................... 5.6-18 Table 5.8-1 Estimate of Existing Water Service Demands.................................................5.8-20 Table 5.8-2 Estimate of Water Service Demands at Build Out..........................................5.8-21 Table 5.8-3 Estimate of Water Service Demands from New Development .......................5.8-21 Table 5.9-1 Existing Conditions in the Project Area.............................................................5.9-2 Table 5.9-2 Existing and Potential New Development in the Project Area ........................ 5.9-11 Table 5.9-3 Village Construction Since 2006......................................................................5.9-14 Table 5.9-4 Implementation Process for Parking Management Strategies .......................5.9-28 Table 5.10-1 Exterior Noise Limits........................................................................................5.10-3 Table 5.10-2 Land Use Compatibility for Community Noise Environments .........................5.10-4 Table 5.10-3 Existing Ambient Hourly and 24 -Hour Noise Level Measurements In andNear the Village........................................................................................5.10-7 Table 5.10-4 Existing Noise Exposure Adjacent to the Village .............................................5.10-8 Table 5.10-5 Build Out Noise Levels' ....................................................................................5.10-9 Table 5.10-6 Year 2035 Build -out Conditions Noise Contours...........................................5.10-11 Table 5.11-1 Total Households, 2000 to 2010......................................................................5.11-1 Table 5.11-2 Total Dwelling Units by Type of Structure, 2000-2010 ...................................5.11-2 Table 5.11-3 Household Tenure and Vacancy, 2010............................................................5.11-2 Table 5.11-4 Regional Housing Needs Assessment, 2014-2021 ..........................................5.11-3 List of Acronyms Table 5.12-1 Desert Sands Unified School District Enrollment and Capacity ......................5.12-3 Table 5.12-2 School Facilities for Projected Students from New Development ..................5.12-7 Table 5.14-1 Study Intersections..........................................................................................5.14-2 Table 5.14-2 Study Roadway Segments...............................................................................5.14-2 Table 5.14-3 Level of Service Intersection Control Delay ....................................................5.14-7 Table 5.14-4 Existing Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis...............................................5.14-13 Table 5.14-5 Existing Intersection Delay and Level of Service ...........................................5.14-14 Table 5.14-6 Project Trip Generation.................................................................................5.14-29 Table 5.14-7 Net Project Trip Generation for General Plan Build -out Analysis .................5.14-31 Table 5.14-8 Existing Plus Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis...........................5.14-58 Table 5.14-9 Existing Plus Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service .......................5.14-59 Table 5.14-10 Interim Year Without Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis ............5.14-60 Table 5.14-11 Interim Year Without Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service ......... 5.14-61 Table 5.14-12 Interim Year With Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis ..................5.14-62 Table 5.14-13 Interim Year With Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service ..............5.14-63 Table 5.14-14 General Plan Build -out Without Project Roadway Segment CapacityAnalysis...........................................................................................5.14-64 Table 5.14-15 General Plan Build -out Without Project Intersection Delay and Level ofService.......................................................................................................5.14-65 Table 5.14-16 General Plan Build -out With Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis..........................................................................................................5.14-66 Table 5.14-17 General Plan Build -out With Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service...........................................................................................................5.14-69 Table 5.14-18 General Plan Build -out With Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis (Village Build -out Circulation Plan)..................................................5.14-79 Table 5.14-19 General Plan Build -out With Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service (Village Build -out Circulation Plan) ...................................................5.14-80 Table 5.15-1 Estimate of Existing Water Service Demands ...............................................5.15-10 Table 5.15-2 Estimate of Water Service Demands at Build Out ........................................5.15-11 Table 5.15-3 Estimate of Water Service Demands from New Development .....................5.15-11 Table 5.15-4 Solid Waste Generation at Build Out............................................................5.15-15 Table 5.15-5 Estimated Electricity Usage Rates.................................................................5.15-16 Table 6-1 Unmitigated Regional Operational Pollutant Emissions......................................6-2 Table 6-2 Mitigated Regional Operational Pollutant Emissions...........................................6-2 Table 6-3 Year 2035 Mitigated Project -Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions .......................6-4 List of Acronyms List of Exhibits Exhibit 3-1 Regional Vicinity....................................................................................................3-5 Exhibit 3-2 City of La Quinta Corporate Boundary..................................................................3-7 Exhibit 3-3 Project Site and Vicinity.........................................................................................3-9 Exhibit 3-4 Site Photos...........................................................................................................3-11 Exhibit 3-5 General Plan Land Use Designations...................................................................3-17 Exhibit 3-6 Zoning Designations............................................................................................3-23 Exhibit 3-7 Village Build -out Plan Analysis.............................................................................3-29 Exhibit 3-8 Village Build -out Circulation Plan........................................................................3-35 Exhibit 3-9 Multi Modal Street Improvements......................................................................3-37 Exhibit 3-10 Cumulative Project Locations..............................................................................3-43 Exhibit 5.3-1 Critical Habitat and Modeled Habitat................................................................5.3-5 Exhibit 5.4-1 Cultural Resources Survey Map........................................................................5.4-13 Exhibit 5.4-2 Paleontological Sensitivity Map.......................................................................5.4-17 Exhibit 5.5-1 Geologic Map......................................................................................................5.5-5 Exhibit 5.5-2 Fault Locations..................................................................................................5.5-15 Exhibit 5.5-3 Seismic Hazards................................................................................................5.5-19 Exhibit 5.5-4 Wind Susceptibility Map...................................................................................5.5-23 Exhibit 5.8-1 FEMA Flood Zones and Flood Control Facilities.................................................5.8-5 Exhibit 5.8-2 FEMA Flood Zones..............................................................................................5.8-7 Exhibit 5.8-3 10 -Year Retention Study Map..........................................................................5.8-11 Exhibit 5.8-4 10 Year On -Site Discharge Study Map..............................................................5.8-25 Exhibit 5.9-1 Zoning Designations...........................................................................................5.9-3 Exhibit 5.9-2 Village Construction Since 2006 Parking Study................................................5.9-19 Exhibit 5.9-3 Village Parking Study Photos - West.................................................................5.9-21 Exhibit 5.9-4 Village Parking Study Photos - Northeast.........................................................5.9-23 Exhibit 5.9-5 Village Parking Study — Photos - Southeast......................................................5.9-25 Exhibit 5.10-1 Noise Measurement Locations.........................................................................5.10-5 Exhibit 5.14-1 Project Intersections and Roadway Locations .................................................5.14-5 Exhibit 5.14-2 City of La Quinta Roadway Classifications ........................................................5.14-9 Exhibit 5.14-3 General Plan Roadway Cross-Sections...........................................................5.14-11 Exhibit 5.14-4 Project Vicinity Golf Cart/NEV Paths Master Plan..........................................5.14-17 Exhibit 5.14-5 Project Vicinity Bike Paths Master Plan..........................................................5.14-19 Exhibit 5.14-6 Existing Pedestrian Facilities...........................................................................5.14-21 Exhibit 5.14-7 Existing SunLine Bus Routes...........................................................................5.14-23 Exhibit 5.14-8 Interim Year Without Project Average Daily Traffic Volumes ........................5.14-33 Exhibit 5.14-9 Interim Year Without Project Morning Peak Hour Intersection TurningVolumes.............................................................................................5.14-35 List of Acronyms Exhibit 5.14-10 Interim Year Without Project Evening Peak Hour Intersection TurningVolumes.............................................................................................5.14-37 Exhibit 5.14-11 Interim Year With Project Average Daily Traffic Volumes .............................5.14-39 Exhibit 5.14-12 Interim Year With Project Morning Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes..........................................................................5.14-41 Exhibit 5.14-13 Interim Year With Project Evening Peak Hour Intersection Turning MovementVolumes.......................................................................................5.14-43 Exhibit 5.14-14 General Plan Build -out Without Project Average Daily Traffic Volumes.......................................................................................................... 5.14-45 Exhibit 5.14-15 General Plan Build -out Without Project Morning Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes .....................................................5.14-47 Exhibit 5.14-16 General Plan Build -out Without Project Evening Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes .....................................................5.14-49 Exhibit 5.14-17 General Plan Build -out With Project Average Daily Traffic Volumes.............5.14-51 Exhibit 5.14-18 General Plan Build -out With Project Morning Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes .....................................................5.14-53 Exhibit 5.14-19 General Plan Build -out With Project Evening Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes .....................................................5.14-55 Exhibit 5.14-20 Village Build -out Circulation Plan...................................................................5.14-73 Exhibit 5.14-21 Example of Multi -Modal Street......................................................................5.14-77 List of Appendices Appendix A Notice of Preparation and Comments Received Appendix B Air Quality/Global Climate Change Analysis Appendix C NRCS Custom Soils Report Appendix D EDR Report Appendix E City of La Quinta Focused Area Drainage Study Appendix F Downtown Area Drainage Study for City of La Quinta Appendix G La Quinta Village Hydrology Study Appendix H Traffic Impact Assessment List of Acronyms ac acre ALUC Airport Land Use Commission AMR American Medical Response AP Alquist Priolo APS alternate planning strategy AQMP Air Quality Management Plan BLM Bureau of Land Management BMP Best Management Practice CAA Clean Air Act CAAQS California Ambient Air Quality Standards CalEPA California Environmental Protection Agency CARB California Air Resources Board CAT Climate Action Team CBC California Building Code CCR California Code of Regulations CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife CEQA California Environmental Quality Act CERT Community Emergency Response Team CFC Chlorofluorocarbon CFR Federal Code of Regulations cfs cubic feet per second CGS California Geological Survey CH4 methane CHP California Highway Patrol CN Neighborhood Commercial CNEL Community Noise Equivalency Level CNPS California Native Plant Society CO carbon monoxide CO2 carbon dioxide CpA Coachella Fine Sand CRHR California Register for Historical Resources CUP Condition Use Permit CU PA Certified Unified Program Agencies CVAG Coachella Valley Association of Governments CVMSHCP Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan CVUSD Coachella Valley Unified School District CVWD Coachella Valley Water District CWA Clean Water Act List of Acronyms dB decibel dBA A -weighted Decibel DEH Department of Environmental Health DOF Department of Finance DPM Diesel Particulate Matter DRMC Desert Regional Medical Center DSUSD Desert Sands Unified School District DTSC Department of Toxic Substances Control du dwelling units EIR Environmental Impact Report EPA Environmental Protection Agency EOP Emergency Operations Plan EPO Environmental Protection and Oversight Division EMC Eisenhower Medical Center FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Map ft foot GbA Gilman fine sandy loam GHG Greenhouse Gas GLO United States General Land Office gpcd gallons per capita per day GWP Global Warming Potential HAP Hazardous Air Pollutants HMBEP Hazardous Materials Business Emergency Plan HMRT Hazardous Materials Response Team HFC Hydroflourocarbon HHW Hazardous Household Waste HRA Health Risk Assessment HSC California Health and Safety Code HWMP Hazardous Waste Management Plan IID Indio Irrigation District Ip Indio fine sandy loam Is Indio very fine sandy loam ISO Insurance Service Office IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change LPG Liquid Propane Gas LOS Level of Service LST Localized Significant Threshold List of Acronyms MaB Myoma fine sand MC Major Community Facilities mgd million gallons per day MLD Most Likely Descendent mph miles per hour MPO Metropolitan Planning Organization MTBA Migratory Bird Treaty Act NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards NAHC Native American Heritage Commission NEV Neighborhood Electric Vehicle NFIP National Flood Insurance Program N20 Nitrous Oxide NOC Notice of Completion NOP Notice of Preparation NOX Nitrogen Oxides NPDES National Pollution Discharge Elimination System NPS National Parks Service NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service 03 Ozone OES Governor's Office of Emergency Services OHMS Office of Hazardous Materials Safety PFC Perflourocarbon PM10 particulate matter equal to or less than 10 microns in diameter PM2.5 particulate matter equal to or less than 2.5 microns in diameter ppb parts per billion ppm parts per million PR Parks and Recreation Qa Alluvial deposits QI Interbedded lacustrine QSD Qualified SWPPP Developer QSP Qualified SWPPP Practitioner RCB reinforced catch basins RCFC Riverside County Flood Control RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 RHNA Regional Housing Needs Assessment ROG Reactive Organic Compound RTIP Regional Transportation Improvement Plan RTP Regional Transportation Plan List of Acronyms RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board SCAG Southern California Association of Governments SCAQMD South Coast Air Quality Management District SCS Sustainable Community Strategy SF6 Sulfur Hexaflouride SHMA Seismic Hazards Mapping Act SIP State Implementation Plan SO2 Sulfur Dioxide SP Service Population SPCC Spill Prevention Counter-measure Contingency Plan SRA Source Receptor Area SSAB Salton Seas Air Basin SWP State Water Project SWPPP Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board TAC Toxic Air Contaminants TCP Traditional Cultural Resource or Property TDM Transportation Demand Management TIA Traffic Impact Analysis TUMF Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee UBC Uniform Building Code UNFCCC United Nations' Framework Convention on Climate Change USACOE United States Army Corps of Engineers USFS United States Forest Service USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service USGS United State Geological Survey UWMP Urban Water Management Plan VC Village Commercial VOC Volatile Organic Compound WCD Water Conservation District WDID Waste Discharge Identification Number WGCEP Working Group on California Earthquake Probabilities WQMP Water Quality Management Plan WSS Water Supply Study yr year 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Chapter 1 Executive Summary 1.1 Overview of the Executive Summary This chapter has been prepared pursuant to Section 15123 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, which states that an EIR Summary shall: 1) contain a brief summary of the proposed action; 2) identify each significant effect with proposed mitigation measures that would reduce or avoid that effect; 3) identify alternatives that were designed to reduce or avoid identified significant effects; 4) identify areas of controversy known to the Lead Agency including issues raised by agencies and the public; and 5), identify issues to be resolved including the choice among alternatives and whether or how to mitigate the significant effects. 1.2 Summary of the Proposed Action The City of La Quinta (City) has undertaken a planning process to develop a build -out plan for the Village, its traditional downtown, that would allow for a mix of uses including: 1) vertical mixed use — where retail or professional office space occurs on the ground floor, with residential units above; 2) horizontal mixed use — where retail or professional office uses and higher density residential occur next to each other, and are integrated through pedestrian connections and common areas; or 3) mixed use added to existing commercial development where the residential project abuts or wraps around an existing commercial development. By creating a build -out plan that will foster the continued development of the Village as a pedestrian -oriented, mixed use environment, and evaluating the potential environmental impacts of the Village Build -out Plan in this EIR, the City will be able to offer property owners and developers the opportunity to streamline the planning process for their projects. There is no actual time table for ultimate build out to occur, as development will be driven by market forces and demand for new residential units and additional non-residential uses in the Village. However, 2035 represents the horizon year for the City's General Plan adopted in 2013, therefore it is reasonable to assume a similar time frame for the build -out of the City's Village. In addition, to provide a benchmark for growth in the Build -out Plan project area and continue to plan for future development in the project area, the Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) included an analysis of an Interim Year (2021). The intent is to evaluate a build -out scenario that will allow future projects to be approved based on the analysis provided in this EIR along with a menu of mitigation measures and performances standards that must be met in order to ensure that impacts on the physical environment would be less than significant. Table 1-1, Existing and Potential New Development in the Village Build -out Plan Project Area, shows the potential for new residential and non-residential uses in the Village. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-1 August 2016 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-1 Existing and Potential New Development in the Village Build -out Plan Project Area Source: City of La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Land Use Data, August 2015. Notes: 1. Residential unit count includes existing residences 1.2.1 Objectives of the Proposed Project The City's goal is to continue to develop the Village as a livable and sustainable neighborhood - reminiscent of older cities - where land uses are more interconnected, compact, and offer a mix of uses, providing opportunities for people to live, work, and shop within the neighborhood. In order to achieve this goal, a number of objectives have been identified based on the concept of mixed- use. The City's objectives in proposing the Village Build -out Plan are as follows: • Continue the development of the Village as a mixed use neighborhood by encouraging additional residential and commercial development. • Amend the Zoning Code Text for the Village Commercial District, in the area south of Calle Tampico to allow an increase in building height (subject to site plan review on a project by project basis) to allow an increase in density of residential uses. • Ensure that public facilities and infrastructure are adequate to support the increase in intensity of land uses in the Village. • Capitalize on unique development opportunities in the Village area by focusing on shopping, dining, entertainment, professional and mixed use options while improving the aesthetics of the community. • Enforce existing development standards that: 1) create attractive, useable and safe public spaces; and 2) promote safe indoor and outdoor spaces and provide emergency services that are adequately funded, staffed, and equipped to provide timely responses. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-2 August 2016 Existing Potential Existing New Non - Land Use Acres Residential New Non- Residential Units Residential Residential Square Feet TOTAL (DU)l Units (DU) Square Feet Vacant Land 20.70 -- 436 -- 288,330 -- Land with the Potential for 30.20 -- 794 12,400 511,456 -- Redevelopment Existing Developed Properties with no Change in Land Use 85.90 284 -- 139,525 -- -- or Increased Density 284 DU 1,482 DU, 290 +290 hotel hotel/ casita Total 136.74 1,230 DU 151,925 799,786 rooms & 960,711 casitas square feet Source: City of La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Land Use Data, August 2015. Notes: 1. Residential unit count includes existing residences 1.2.1 Objectives of the Proposed Project The City's goal is to continue to develop the Village as a livable and sustainable neighborhood - reminiscent of older cities - where land uses are more interconnected, compact, and offer a mix of uses, providing opportunities for people to live, work, and shop within the neighborhood. In order to achieve this goal, a number of objectives have been identified based on the concept of mixed- use. The City's objectives in proposing the Village Build -out Plan are as follows: • Continue the development of the Village as a mixed use neighborhood by encouraging additional residential and commercial development. • Amend the Zoning Code Text for the Village Commercial District, in the area south of Calle Tampico to allow an increase in building height (subject to site plan review on a project by project basis) to allow an increase in density of residential uses. • Ensure that public facilities and infrastructure are adequate to support the increase in intensity of land uses in the Village. • Capitalize on unique development opportunities in the Village area by focusing on shopping, dining, entertainment, professional and mixed use options while improving the aesthetics of the community. • Enforce existing development standards that: 1) create attractive, useable and safe public spaces; and 2) promote safe indoor and outdoor spaces and provide emergency services that are adequately funded, staffed, and equipped to provide timely responses. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-2 August 2016 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.2.2 Discretionary Actions / Other Approvals Associated with the Proposed Project Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15367, the City of La Quinta is the Lead Agency and has discretionary authority over the project. This EIR will be used by the City as part of its consideration of future development proposals in the Village. Other responsible or trustee agencies may also use the EIR in their consideration of permitting of projects in the Village. For example, a vehicle fueling station requires permits from the County Department of Environmental Health and the South Coast Air Quality Management District in order to construct and operate such a facility. 1.3 Alternatives to the Proposed Project This EIR has developed, considered and evaluated alternatives to the proposed project pursuant to the provisions of Section 15126.6 of the State CEQA Guidelines, as amended. Section 15126.6(a) of the State CEQA Guidelines states that: "An EIR shall describe a range of reasonable alternatives to the project, or the location of the project, which would feasibly attain most of the basic objectives of the project but would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the project, and evaluate the comparative merits of the alternatives. An EIR needs to not consider every conceivable alternative to a project. Rather it must consider a reasonable range of potentially feasible alternatives that will foster informed decision making and public participation.... There is no ironclad rule governing the nature or scope of the alternatives to be discussed other than the rule of reason." State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15126.6 (b) through (f) identifies the key considerations pertaining to, and requirements for, the preparation of the alternatives analysis in an EIR. 1.3.1 Alternatives Considered and Rejected from Further Analysis 1.3.1.1 No Project — No Development Alternative CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e) specifically addresses the requirement to discuss a No Project alternative with the option to evaluate one of two scenarios: 1) when a project is a revision to an existing land use or regulatory plan, policy or ongoing operation the no -project alternative would be the continuation of the existing plan, policy or operation into the future; or 2) if the project is other than a land use or regulatory plan, such as a development project, the no -project alternative is the circumstance under which the project does not proceed. In certain circumstances, the no project alternative is a no build scenario where the existing environmental setting is maintained. Scenario 1 is evaluated in Section 7.4.3 — Alternative 1 — No Project - Buildout Under the Existing Zoning Ordinance and La Quinta Village Design Guidelines. Scenario 2, the No Project/No Development Alternative was rejected because the Village is an existing Commercial District that is currently developed with a number of residential, commercial, La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-3 August 2016 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY professional office, and public facilities uses, but still has a number of vacant and underutilized properties that could be developed. Therefore, an analysis of where the existing environmental setting is maintained, is not a logical alternative to the proposed Village Build -out Plan. 1.3.1.2 Increased Density Alternative In studying the optimum build -out scenario for the Village, the City of La Quinta considered varying densities of residential and non-residential uses. One such alternative was to develop the project area with an additional 799,786 square feet of non-residential uses and up to 40 dwelling units to the acre where the proposed Build -out Plan calls for a maximum of 25 to 30 dwelling units to the acre. This alternative was considered and rejected because it would require an increase in the height of buildings greater than the 45 to 60 feet proposed in the Build -out Plan to reach the density of 40 dwelling units to the acre, which would be incompatible with the character of the Village. 1.3.2 Alternatives Considered for Evaluation Two alternatives to the proposed Village Build -out Plan were considered for evaluation compared to the proposed project. The following provides a summary of the Alternatives Analysis provided in Chapter 7 of the EIR. 1.3.2.1 Alternative 1: Build -out Under the Existing Zoning Ordinance and La Quinta Village Design Guidelines Under this alternative development in the Village Build -out Plan project area is the No -Project Alternative where the proposed Zoning Code amendments would not be adopted to allow for increased height and residential density that would create a more compact pedestrian friendly neighborhood, with residential, commercial and professional office space. In addition, under this alternative, projects would continue to be subject to the Village Design Guidelines which include a maximum building height of 45 feet. Table 7-3, Comparison Between Development Under Existing Zoning Code/Village Design Guidelines and the Village Build -out Plan, shows the difference between the proposed project and this alternative. 1.3.2.2 Alternative 2: Reduced Village Build -out Plan Project Area Under this alternative, development in the Village Build -out Plan project area would only occur on vacant properties. Properties that the City has identified as having the potential to be redeveloped under the Village Build -out Plan would remain developed with existing uses. Under this alternative, the intensity and density of new uses on vacant properties would be similar to those allowed under the Village Build -out Plan. • Building Height — 60 feet • Dwelling units at up to 30 units to the acre • No Village Design Guidelines — architectural style considered on a project by project basis La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-4 August 2016 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.3.2.3 Alternative Evaluation Table 1-2, Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternatives, shows the development data for the proposed project and the two alternatives. Alternative 1 represents a 35 percent reduction in dwelling units and non-residential square footage, while Alternative 2 represents a 65 percent reduction from the proposed project. Table 1-2 Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternatives Source: For the proposed project - City of La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Land Use Data, August 2015. For alternatives, simple reduction of 35 and 65 percent respectively. The Environmental Analysis of the proposed Village Build -out Plan concluded that there would be a significant and unavoidable impact on Air Quality associated with the generation of emissions of the following criteria pollutants—VOC, NO,, and CO, and Global Climate Change associated with emissions of Greenhouse Gasses. All other impacts can be reduced to less than significant levels through the implementation of mitigation measures identified in Table 1-3, Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures. Under Alternative 1, Build -out Under the Existing Zoning Ordinance and La Quinta Village Design Guidelines, although air emissions and emissions of GHG would be reduced, they would remain above the thresholds for the same criteria pollutants and CO2. Like the proposed project, all other impacts would be less than significant. Under Alternative 2, Reduced Village Build -out Plan Project Area, a 65 percent reduction in dwelling units and non-residential uses would result in a project that would not have an impact on the environment as only the vacant properties would be developed in the area; approximately 20 acres. However, this alternative would not meet the City's goal of developing a livable and sustainable neighborhood that requires a population density substantially higher than what would be generated by this alternative. 1.3.2.4 Environmentally Superior Alternative The environmentally superior alternative is Alternative 2, Reduced Village Build -out Plan Project Area, where only vacant properties would be developed, representing a 65 percent reduction in the number of dwelling units and square footage of non-residential uses. Alternative 2 would meet the City's goal La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-5 August 2016 Project Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Dwelling units Existing 284 284 284 Proposed 1,198 785 434 Total 1,482 1,069 718 Non-residential uses Existing 160,925 1601925 160,925 Proposed 799,786 590,935 297,330 Total 960,925 7511860 458,255 Source: For the proposed project - City of La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Land Use Data, August 2015. For alternatives, simple reduction of 35 and 65 percent respectively. The Environmental Analysis of the proposed Village Build -out Plan concluded that there would be a significant and unavoidable impact on Air Quality associated with the generation of emissions of the following criteria pollutants—VOC, NO,, and CO, and Global Climate Change associated with emissions of Greenhouse Gasses. All other impacts can be reduced to less than significant levels through the implementation of mitigation measures identified in Table 1-3, Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures. Under Alternative 1, Build -out Under the Existing Zoning Ordinance and La Quinta Village Design Guidelines, although air emissions and emissions of GHG would be reduced, they would remain above the thresholds for the same criteria pollutants and CO2. Like the proposed project, all other impacts would be less than significant. Under Alternative 2, Reduced Village Build -out Plan Project Area, a 65 percent reduction in dwelling units and non-residential uses would result in a project that would not have an impact on the environment as only the vacant properties would be developed in the area; approximately 20 acres. However, this alternative would not meet the City's goal of developing a livable and sustainable neighborhood that requires a population density substantially higher than what would be generated by this alternative. 1.3.2.4 Environmentally Superior Alternative The environmentally superior alternative is Alternative 2, Reduced Village Build -out Plan Project Area, where only vacant properties would be developed, representing a 65 percent reduction in the number of dwelling units and square footage of non-residential uses. Alternative 2 would meet the City's goal La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-5 August 2016 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY to continue to develop the Village as a livable and sustainable neighborhood - reminiscent of older cities - where land uses are more interconnected, compact, and offer a mix of uses, providing opportunities for people to live, work, and shop within the neighborhood. However, not to the extent that the Village Build -out Plan would because of the economy of scale required to upgrade the public facilities and infrastructure in the Village, including the proposed traffic calming elements such as replacing traditional four way stops with round -abouts, adding additional pedestrian amenities such as wider sidewalks and enhanced crosswalks (i.e. pedestrian activated crosswalk lights), upgrading the drainage system and upgrading the water and sewer lines to accommodate new growth. 1.4 Areas of Controversy/Issues to be Resolved CEQA Guidelines Section 15123(b) states that an EIR shall contain a brief summary of the projects actions and its consequences including: (2) areas of controversy known to the Lead Agency including issues raised by other agencies and the public; and (3) Issues to be resolved including the choice among alternatives and whether or how to mitigate the significant impacts. Areas of Controversy No Areas of Controversy were identified in the comments received on the Notice of Preparation. (See Section 2.3, Scope of the EIR). Issues to be Resolved The choice among alternatives is summarized in section 1.5, Summary of Alternatives. A summary of potentially significant impacts and proposed mitigation measures are identified in Table 1-2, Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures. 1.5 Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures Table 1-3, Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures, identifies the potentially significant effects of the proposed project, mitigation measures, project features and/or requirements identified to avoid or reduce the identified potentially significant effects to less than significant levels, and the effectiveness of the mitigation measures, project features and/or requirements to achieve this end. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-6 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Potential Impacts on Level of Significance Mitigation Measure or Design Feature the environment after Mitigation 5.1 Aesthetics Light and glare AES -1 During the building permit application, evidence must be submitted to prove that the Less than significant proposed work will comply with the City Outdoor Lighting Ordinance of the Municipal Code. 5.2 Air Quality Air emissions during Construction Measures Significant and long-term operation AQ -1 All development projects in the project area must adhere to SCAQMD Rules (see Unavoidable Section 5.2, Air Quality pp. 5.2-6 through 5.2-10 for a list of the applicable rules), for the control of fugitive dust, for the maintenance of construction vehicles and equipment, and forthe use of reduced VOC asphalt, architectural coatings and solvents. Operational Measures AQ -2 Project applicants shall require that ENERGY STAR -compliant appliances are installed where appliances are required on-site. AQ -3 Project applicants shall include high -efficiency lighting that is at least 10 percent more efficient than standard lighting. AQ -4 The City shall ensure compliance with SCAQMD Rule 1186 (limits fugitive dust on paved and unpaved roads and sets certification protocols and requirements for street sweepers) and 2202 (provides employers of 250 or more employees with a menu of options to reduce mobile source emissions generated by employee commutes), during long term operations in the Village. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-7 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment Mitigation Measure or Design Feature Level of Significance after Mitigation 5.2 Air Quality (Continued) AQ -5 Project applicants shall provide sidewalks within each project boundary and along off-site roadway improvements. AQ -6 All project applicants shall ensure that new and/or remodeled buildings meet or exceed California Building Code Energy Efficiency Standards. AQ -7 All project applicants shall require that all faucets, toilets and showers installed in proposed structures utilize low -flow fixtures that would reduce indoor water demand by 20 percent per CalGreen Standards or more stringent standards if in place at the time development occurs. AQ -8 Project applicants shall implement recycling programs that reduce waste to landfills by a minimum of 75 percent or more stringent standards if in place at the time development occurs. AQ -9 To the extent feasible, project applicants shall use paints and coatings with a VOC content lower than SCAQMD Rule 1113 requires or more stringent standards if in place at the time development occurs, for application to surfaces of residential dwelling units and commercial units within project boundaries. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-8 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment Mitigation Measure or Design Feature Level of Significance after Mitigation 5.3 Biological Resources Avian species including 13I0-1 Burrowing Owl. Prior to any land disturbance on currently vacant properties, an Less than significant burrowing owl applicant shall have a biological survey conducted at the project site to determine presence/absence of the species. Results of the survey may determine whether focused surveys must be conducted. If the site survey determines the presence of burrowing owl, mitigation in accordance with the CDFW shall be implemented as follows: • If burrowing owls are identified as being resident on-site outside the breeding season (February 1 through August 31) they may be relocated to other sites by a permitted biologist (permitted by CDFW), as allowed in the CDFW Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation (March 2012). • If an active burrow is found during the breeding season, the burrow shall be treated as a nest site and temporary fencing shall be installed at a distance from the active burrow, to be determined by the biologist, to prevent disturbance during grading or construction. Installation and removal of the fencing shall be done with a biological monitor present. BI0-2 Nesting Bird Surveys. Removal of any appropriate vegetation located on a project site shall be conducted outside of the avian nesting season (February through August). If construction must occur during the avian nesting season, a pre -construction nesting bird survey shall be conducted within seven days prior to any ground disturbing activities. If at any time birds are found to be nesting, construction activities within 250 feet of the nest must not occur until it is determined by a qualified biologist that the nest is no longer active. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-9 August 2016 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on Level of Significance Mitigation Measure or Design Feature the environment after Mitigation 5.3 Biological Resources (Continued) 13I0-3 CVMSHCP Mitigation Fee. New development projects are required to pay the mitigation fees; even those projects located in urban areas. The most current rates (2016) are as follows (but future developments may be subject to updated fees): Dwelling Units Fee 0-8 units $1,301 per unit 8-14 units $541 per unit 14 + units $239 per unit Non -Residential Commercial/industrial $5,809 per acre 5.4 Cultural Resources Historic buildings, and CR -1 Demolition or extensive alteration of the building at 78035-78039 Calle Estado Less than significant unknown buried should be avoided. Overriding considerations to justify the loss of the building resources or human would need to be developed were demolition pursued. Because the building is remains significant for its architectural merits and as one of La Quinta's original downtown commercial buildings, mitigation measures such as photographic and written documentation must be developed prior to any demolition or extensive alteration of this building. Documentation of the building shall follow the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) Level I Standards. This documentation shall include production of high-quality archival print photographs and plan drawings of the building, including but not limited to a floor plan, elevation drawings, and any character -defining features or details on the building. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-10 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment Mitigation Measure or Design Feature Level of Significance after Mitigation 5.4 Cultural Resources (continued) All work carried out pursuant to the documentation of the building shall be conducted by, or under the direct supervision of a person or persons meeting, at a minimum, the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards (48 FR 44738-39 as revised in 1994) as an architectural historian. A written report detailing the documentation shall be provided to the City of La Quinta upon completion of the work. The report shall be produced on archival materials and filed with the La Quinta Historical Society and Museum and La Quinta Library. CR -2 If redevelopment of 78035-78039 Calle Estado occurs, the design of any new construction adjacent to this one-story Spanish Colonial Revival -style commercial building must be compatible in design, scale, massing, and appearance as stated in the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines. The design of new construction should not replicate the historic building style resulting in a false sense of history, but it shall not contrast starkly from its architectural style or design. New construction adjacent to this historic resource shall be no more than two stories high, and shall not overpower or overshadow this building (massing/scale). The final design of the new construction should be developed in consultation with a historic architect or architectural historian who meets the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards (as published in 36 CFR Part 61). CR -3 The design of any new construction adjacent to the one- and two-story Spanish Colonial and Monterey Revival -style historic resources at 78023 Calle Estado, 77895 Avenida Montezuma, 77885 Avenida Montezuma, and 51001 Eisenhower Drive, shall be compatible in design, scale, massing, and appearance as required by the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines. The building design should not attempt to La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-11 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment Mitigation Measure or Design Feature Level of Significance after Mitigation 5.4 Cultural Resources (continued) replicate these buildings in appearance, but shall not conflict or contrast with their architectural style. New construction adjacent to these historic resources shall be no more than two stories high, and shall not overpower or overshadow these existing buildings (scale/massing). The final design of the new construction shall be developed in consultation with a historic architect or architectural historian who meets the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards (as published in 36 CFR Part 61). CR -4 The design of any new construction within the Village Build -Out Plan Area adjacent to the residences of the La Quinta Cove Thematic Historic District shall be compatible in design, scale, massing, and appearance with existing historical commercial buildings in the Village Commercial zone. The design of new commercial buildings should be compatible with the Spanish Colonial and Monterey Revival architectural style of the existing historical commercial core. New construction adjacent to the La Quinta Cove Thematic Historic District shall be no more than two stories high, and shall not overpower or overshadow the historical residential buildings of the La Quinta Cove as required by the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines. The final design of the new construction should be developed in consultation with a historic architect or architectural historian who meets the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards (as published in 36 CFR Part 61). CR -5 Because the project site is considered to be highly sensitive for containing prehistoric archaeological deposits in subsurface contexts, a qualified archaeological monitor (and Native American monitor) shall be present during all phases of construction grading La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-12 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment Mitigation Measure or Design Feature Level of Significance after Mitigation 5.4 Cultural Resources (continued) and trenching activities for any project developed on vacant land that has not been previously surveyed for cultural resources, as illustrated in Exhibit 5.4-1 and any development/ redevelopment project that proposes underground parking. The amount of monitoring shall be determined by the archaeologist through the preparation of a monitoring plan to be prepared prior to commencement of grading. CR -6 A qualified paleontologist shall be retained priorto the start of construction for projects proposed on vacant lots or development/redevelopment projects proposing underground parking. After final depths of impacts are known (from grading plans), a paleontological mitigation plan shall be prepared limited to the proposed deep impact areas (greater than 3 feet) of the project only. In particular, the plan shall (1) clearly define that test trenches that would be dug to the maximum depth of proposed impacts, (2) permit the use of heavy equipment to perform the trenching as all samples will be taken from sidewalls after a stratigraphic profile is developed, (3) require recording of each strata revealed, (4) require radiocarbon dates for each strata, (5) require samples of about 10 kilogram (kg) for each strata with collection of additional samples up to 100 kg for layers rich in vertebrate fossils, (6) require identification and analysis by recognized experts, (7) require an interpretive report, (8) require curation of significant specimens recovered and (9) encourage publication of results. The plan would identify the amount of monitoring required. CR -7 In the event that human remains are uncovered, no further disturbance shall occur until the Riverside County Coroner has made a determination of origin and disposition pursuant to PRC Section 5097.98. The Riverside County Coroner must be La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-13 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on Level of Significance Mitigation Measure or Design Feature the environment after Mitigation 5.4 Cultural Resources (continued) notified of the find immediately. If the human remains are determined to be prehistoric, the coroner will notify the NAHC, which will determine and notify a Most Likely Descendant (MLD). The MLD shall complete the inspection of the site within 48 hours of notification and may recommend scientific removal and nondestructive analysis of human remains and items associated with Native American burials. 5.5 Geology and Soils Seismicity GEO-1 Applicants for new structures shall utilize modern building materials and techniques, Less than significant and be built in accordance with the latest version of the California Building Code. GEO-2 Applicants for new development projects, including redevelopment involving changes to building size shall be required to prepare a detailed geotechnical and soils analysis that includes soil sampling, laboratory testing and mitigation measures intended to reduce potential geotechnical hazards to less than significant levels. 5.6 Global Climate Change GHG emissions during GHG-1 Project applicants shall provide sidewalks within the project boundary and along the Significant and long-term operation off-site roadway improvements where these are lacking. Unavoidable GHG-2 Project applicants shall ensure that all building structures meet or exceed 2013 Title 24, Part 6 Standards and meet Green Building Code Standards, or more stringent standards if in place at the time building permits are issued. GHG-3 Project applicants shall ensure that all faucets, toilets and showers installed in the proposed structures utilize low -flow fixtures that would reduce indoor water demand by 20 percent per CalGreen Standards to the satisfaction of the Building Department. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-14 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on Level of Significance Mitigation Measure or Design Feature the environment after Mitigation 5.6 Global Climate Change (continued) GHG-4 Project applicants shall ensure that ENERGY STAR -compliant appliances are installed where appliances are required on-site. GHG-5 Project applicants shall implement recycling programs that reduce waste to landfills by a minimum of 75 percent. GHG-6 Project applicants shall install high -efficiency lighting be installed that is at least 10 percent more efficient than standard lighting. GHG-7 To the extent feasible, project applicants shall use paints and coatings with a VOC content lower than SCAQMD Rule 1113 requires for application to surfaces of residential dwelling units and commercial units within project boundaries. 5.7 Hazards and Hazardous Materials Transport, storage, use HAZ-1 All new development projects that propose the use, transport or storage of Less than significant or disposal of hazardous materials in their plan of operations and are defined as a new generator hazardous materials of hazardous materials shall comply with all local, state, and federal regulations, as required by law. HAZ-2 In compliance with Chapter 6.95 of the California Health & Safety Code (HSC) and Title 19, Division 2, of the California Code of Regulations (CCR), all new development that proposes the storage and use of hazardous materials at or above reporting criteria thresholds shall prepare a Hazardous Materials Business Emergency Plan (HMBEP). The HMBEP shall be reviewed and approved by the County of Riverside CUPA and the Department of Environmental Health prior to the initiation of operation of the business. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-15 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on Level of Significance Mitigation Measure or Design Feature the environment after Mitigation 5.7 Hazards and Hazardous Materials (continued) HAZ-3 All new development projects that propose the use and storage of hazardous materials will be required to prepare a Spill Prevention Counter measurement Contingency Plan (SPCC) that addresses appropriate protocol measures to contain accidental spills of hazardous materials. A SPCC spill kit shall also be placed onsite at the business or facility. HAZ-4 All new development and redevelopment projects within the Village Build -out Plan project area shall submit development plans and permits to the City for review, and City shall coordinate with the Desert Sands Unified School District regarding any proposed land uses that will produce hazardous waste, such as doctor's offices. HAZ-5 All project development proposals shall submit plans to the Fire Department for review and conditioning for safe accessibility of fire and ambulatory services and for appropriate evacuation routing of the project development in the event of an emergency. 5.8 Hydrology and Water Quality Potential for pollutants HWQ-1 Prior to the issuance of building permits on vacant or underutilized parcels that will Less than significant to mix with stormwater be developed within the Village Build -out Plan, a Storm Water Pollution Prevention and enter the storm Plan (SWPPP) shall be prepared for all projects within the Village Build -out Plan that drain system disturb one acre or more. The SWPPP shall list appropriate best management Increase in practices (BMPs) for the control and treatment of runoff from the project site. The groundwater usage applicant is responsible for the preparation and implementation of the SWPPP per with increase in urban the NPDES requirements and must file a Notice of Intent with the State Water uses Resource Control Board and receive a Waste Discharge ID Number (WDID), and have a copy of the SWPPP at the project site at all times during construction. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-16 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment Mitigation Measure or Design Feature Level of Significance after Mitigation 5.8 Hydrology and Water Quality (continued) Potential for new HWQ-2 Prior to the issuance of building permits on vacant parcels within the Village Build - development to out Plan project area, a WQMP for post construction conditions shall list appropriate increase impervious best management practices (BMPs) for the control and treatment of runoff from the surfaces and increase project site. The WQMP must be reviewed and approved by the City Engineer or runoff his/her designee. Potential for developed HWQ-3 The City of La Quinta is responsible for constructing improvements to the storm drain properties to be evacuation system in the Village Build -out project area. These improvements must affected by flooding be made prior to commencement of development of new projects in the project area, during a major storm proposed after adoption of the Build -out Plan. Subsequently, prior to issuance of event buildings permits for new development on vacant properties or redevelopment of underutilized properties in the project area applicants will pay development impact fees for drainage improvements to the storm drain evacuation system. HWQ-4 Prior to project construction of new projects on vacant lands, or redevelopment projects on currently developed parcels, the project applicant shall pay a Development Impact Fee specific towards funding of storm drain upgrade improvements along Calle Tampico Ave. HWQ-5 All project development within the Village Build -out Plan shall coordinate and cooperate with CVWD to ensure City-wide compliance with current State Senate Bill x7-7 to reduce per capita urban water use by 36 percent for year 2016, and 20 percent reduction by year 2020, including landscaping conversion programs and the smart irrigation control program; expanding the availability of sustainable water supplies such as tertiary treated water, and encouraging its use for landscape irrigation La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-17 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment Mitigation Measure or Design Feature Level of Significance after Mitigation 5.8 Hydrology and Water Quality (continued) purposes, especially for irrigating golf courses and other large landscaped areas, and/or other mandates imposed at the time development occurs. HWQ-6 The City shall review and amend its Development Standards to require that all new development within the Village Build -out Plan demonstrate a reduction of domestic water consumption equivalent to the CalGreen Tier One standards in effect at the time of development. HWQ-7 The City shall continue to implement its Water Efficient Landscape ordinance by requiring that development projects within the Village Build -out Plan implement water efficient landscaping plans to meet or exceed current water efficiency standards. HWQ-8 The City shall require that new development within the Village Build -out Plan reduce its projected water consumption over "business as usual" consumption rates. HWQ-9 The City shall develop programs to allow and encourage the retrofitting of existing water intensive appliances and irrigation systems for existing development within the Village Build -out Plan. HWQ-10 The City shall continue to require that all new developments within the Village Build- out Plan use water conserving appliances and fixtures, including low -flush toilets and low -flow showerheads and faucets, as well as the application of water -conserving technologies in conformance with Section 17921.3 of the Health and Safety Code, Title 20, California Administrative Code Section 1601(b), and applicable sections of Title 24 of the State Code. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-18 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on Mitigation Measure or Design Feature Level of Significance the environment after Mitigation 5.8 Hydrology and Water Quality (continued) HWQ-11 The City shall continue to encourage that new development within the Village Build- out Plan use faucets, showerheads and appliances that exceed Title 20 and Title 24 water efficiency requirements. 5.9 Land Use and Planning Increased parking LU -1 The City of La Quinta is committed to the success of the Village becoming a more Less than significant demand livable place by creating a more accessible place for residents and visitors to live and visit while downplaying the need for motor vehicles. To that end, and for each new individual project, the City shall implement a required quantification analysis, methodology in the 2006 City of La Quinta Village District Parking Study, parking management strategies, parking supply strategies, and zoning/administration strategies beginning with those identified in Table 5.9-4. 5.10 Noise Noise associated NOI-1 Based on a project's proximity to sensitive receptors, City Staff will determine if a Less than significant with increased traffic Noise Impact Analysis is needed on a project -by -project basis during their review of and population in the project applications. If required, the study shall analyze noise levels within the Village proposed project, and include mitigation measures to assure that the modeled interior and exterior noise levels meet the City's standards. NOI-2 Truck deliveries to businesses in the project area that are adjacent to sensitive land uses shall be limited to daylight hours. 5.11 Population and Housing Creation of new None required Less than significant housing La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-19 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on Level of Significance Mitigation Measure or Design Feature the environment after Mitigation 5.11 Public Services Increased demand on PS -1 The City and Riverside County Fire Department shall continue to confer and coordinate Less than significant public services to ensure that facilities and services within the Village Build -out Plan are expanded in a timely manner. PS -2 The Riverside County Fire Department shall continue to review and evaluate new development proposals and project plans within the Village Build -out Plan to make certain that it can provide adequate fire protection. PS -3 All new development projects within the Village Build -out Plan shall be subject to Police Department review to assure that the Department can provide adequate police protection. PS -4 The City shall monitor City population and Police Department staffing levels to ensure the provision of police protection services at consistent levels. PS -5 Development projects within the Village Build -out Plan shall be assessed statutory school mitigation fees, in place at the time residential and commercial projects are proposed. PS -6 Development projects within the Village Build -out Plan shall be assessed development impact fees, in place at the time residential and commercial projects are proposed. 5.13 Recreation Increased demand on None required Less than significant parks and recreation La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-20 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment Mitigation Measure or Design Feature Level of Significance after Mitigation 5.14 Traffic and Circulation Increased traffic in the The following mitigation measures are recommended for Interim Year With Project traffic Significant and vicinity conditions: Unavoidable CIR-1 Washington Street/Avenida La Fonda (#13): Construct a raised "worm" median to allow northbound left -turns and restrict eastbound left -turns. CIR-2 Jefferson Street/Avenue 52 (#16): Reconstruct the existing roundabout to provide two circulating lanes and two entry lanes at the northbound and southbound approaches. The new two lane roundabout should be constructed with consideration for conversion to a three lane roundabout by General Plan Buildout conditions. The following Mitigation Measures are recommended for General Plan Buildout With Project traffic conditions: CIR-3 Eisenhower Drive/Avenida Montezuma (#3): Convert Eisenhower Drive/Avenida Montezuma from an all -way stop control to a yield -controlled roundabout [this improvement is assumed in the Village Buildout Circulation Plan]. CIR-4 Washington Street/Avenue 48 (#9): Construct the northbound approach to consist of three through lanes and one right -turn lane. Remove the pedestrian crosswalk at the north leg of the intersection. Based on the City's traffic study guidelines, the following circulation improvements are recommended in addition to the roadway improvements identified in the current General Plan Circulation Element: CIR-5 Eisenhower Drive / Calle Tampico (#2): Construct one additional westbound left -turn lane to provide dual left -turn lanes. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-21 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment Mitigation Measure or Design Feature Level of Significance after Mitigation 5.14 Traffic and Circulation (continued) CIR-6 Avenida Bermudas/Calle Tampico (#5): Construct one additional westbound left -turn lane. The TIA identified an alternative to construct a roundabout rather than adding an additional lane in the event that the improvement identified in the General Plan Circulation Element is infeasible. This will be determined by the Design and Development Director/City Engineer. CIR-7 Desert Club Drive / Calle Tampico (#7): Construct one exclusive northbound right -turn lane and one additional westbound left -turn lane. The TIA identified an alternative to construct a roundabout rather than adding an additional lane in the event that the improvement identified in the General Plan Circulation Element is infeasible. This will be determined by the Design and Development Director/City Engineer. CIR-8 Washington Street/Avenue 48 (#9): Construct one exclusive northbound right -turn lane. CIR-9 Washington Street/Avenue 52 (#14): Construct one additional eastbound left -turn lane to provide triple left -turn lanes. Provide one additional southbound left -turn lane to provide triple left -turn lanes. The following mitigation measure is related specifically to intersections that have been identified to operate at LOS E along Calle Tampico CIR-10 For road segments along Calle Tampico between Avenida Bermudas and Washington Street, the City shall conduct periodic monitoring of actual conditions in the Village (timing to be determined as development begins to occur in the project area, and will review its Parking Demand Management strategies (directly correlated with traffic volumes) to determine additional strategies that can be employed related to remote parking and shuttle service, additional pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and education programs. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-22 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment Mitigation Measure or Design Feature Level of Significance after Mitigation 5.15 Utilities and Service Systems Increased demand on UTL-1 All new development within the Village Build -out Plan shall be connected to sanitary Less than significant public utilities sewer service. UTL-2 The City shall ensure coordination with CVWD and to assure that existing and future extended sanitary sewer facilities are adequate. UTL-3 The City shall create a tracking log for development projects in the project area that identifies the existing wet and dry infrastructure in the project area, then on a project - by -project basis, inputs the type and size of proposed uses, the potable water required, wastewater generated and electrical demand generated. The City will work with CVWD, IID SCG and others to determine when upgrades to infrastructure will be required. UTL-4 All project development within the Village Build -out Plan shall coordinate and cooperate with CVWD to ensure City-wide compliance with current State Senate Bill x7-7 to reduce per capita urban water use by 36 percent for year 2016, and 20 percent reduction by year 2020, including landscaping conversion programs and the smart irrigation control program; expanding the availability of sustainable water supplies such as tertiarytreated water, and encouraging its use for landscape irrigation purposes, especially for irrigating golf courses and other large landscaped areas. UTL -5 The City shall review and amend its Development Standards if necessary to require that all new development within the Village Build -out Plan demonstrate a reduction of domestic water consumption equivalent to the CalGreen Tier One standards in effect at the time of development. UTL -6 The City shall continue to implement its Water Efficient Landscape ordinance by requiring that development projects within the Village Build -out Plan implement water efficient landscaping plans to meet or exceed water efficiency standards. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-23 August 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Table 1-3 Summary of Environmental Analysis, Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment Mitigation Measure or Design Feature Level of Significance after Mitigation 5.15 Utilities and Service Systems (continued) UTL-7 The City shall require that new development within the Village Build -out Plan to reduce its projected water consumption over "business as usual" consumption rates. UTL-8 In conjunction with CVWD as well as independently, the City shall develop programs to allow and encourage the retrofitting of existing water intensive appliances and irrigation systems for existing development within the Village Build -out Plan. UTL-9 All new developments shall use water conserving appliances and fixtures, as well as the application of water -conserving technologies in conformance with Section 17921.3 of the Health and Safety Code, Title 20, California Administrative Code Section 1601(b), and applicable sections of Title 24 of the State Code. UTL-10 All new and existing commercial establishments shall be required to comply with State mandates (AB 341) to reduce the amount of packaging and potential waste associated with product manufacturing and sales. UTL-11 Prior to the issuance of building permits within the Village Build -out Plan, the City shall continue to refer project developers to Burrtec for development of construction and demolition solid waste recycling plans in order to divert a minimum of 50% of C&D debris from the waste stream. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 1-24 August 2016 2 INTRODUCTION Chapter 2 Introduction 2.1 Overview of and Authority for the EIR This Environmental Impact Report (EIR) (State Clearinghouse No. 2015101019) has been prepared in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to evaluate the potential environmental effects associated with the proposed La Quinta Village Build -out Plan. This EIR has been prepared in conformance with CEQA (California Public Resources Code, Section 21000, et seq.), and the CEQA Guidelines (California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Section 15000, et seq.) The purpose of an EIR is to disclose information to the public and to decision makers about the potential environmental effects of a proposed project. An EIR does not recommend either approval or denial of a project; rather, it is intended to provide a source of independent and impartial analysis of the foreseeable environmental impacts of a proposed course of action. The project evaluated in this EIR is the adoption of revised development standards and implementation of the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan by the City of La Quinta, including the development of new projects on vacant and/or under-utilized properties in the project area. The Build -out Plan provides a roadmap for the physical development of properties in the project area that will be used by City Staff and elected and/or appointed officials to review, and evaluate and process future development proposals. This EIR describes the proposed project, analyzes its environmental effects, and discusses reasonable alternatives that would avoid, reduce, or minimize environmental impacts. The City of La Quinta is the lead agency for the proposed project. The La Quinta City Council will consider the information presented in this document in making an informed decision regarding the approval and conditions of approval, or denial of the project. 2.2 Review of the EIR Upon completion of the preparation of the Draft EIR, the City of La Quinta will file a Notice of Completion (NOC) with the Governor's Office of Planning and Research, State Clearinghouse to begin the public review period (Public Resources Code, Section 21161). Concurrent with the NOC, this Draft EIR will be distributed to responsible and trustee agencies, other affected agencies, surrounding cities, and interested parties, as well as all parties requesting a copy of the Draft EIR in accordance with Public Resources Code Section 21092(b)(3). During the public review period, the Draft EIR, including the technical appendices, is available for review at the City of La Quinta Design and Development Department and the La Quinta Library. The addresses for each location are provided below: La Quinta Village Admin Draft EIR 2-1 August 2016 2 INTRODUCTION City of La Quinta Community Development Department 78495 Calle Tampico Phone: 760-777-7125 Hours: Monday — Thursday 7:30 am — 5:00 pm and Friday 8:00 am — 5:00 pm. La Quinta Library 78275 Calle Tampico Phone: 760-564-4767 Hours: Monday — Thursday 10:00 am — 7:00 pm, Friday and Saturday 10:00 am — 6:00 pm, and Sunday 12:00 pm — 4:00 pm. Agencies, organizations, and interested parties who wish to comment on the Draft EIR during the 45 -day public review period are requested to provide written comments to: Nicole Sauviat Criste, Consulting Planner Community Development Department 78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta CA 92253 Phone: 760-777-7069 Email: ncriste@la-guinta.org Upon completion of the public review period, written responses to all public comments received will be prepared and included in the Final EIR. Responses to comments received will be made available for review at least 10 days prior to the public hearing before the City Council, at which the certification of the EIR will be considered. Comments received and the responses to comments will be included as part of the record for consideration by decision makers for the project. 2.3 Scope of the EIR The Village Build -out Plan EIR is a subsequent EIR tiered from the Program EIR certified for the La Quinta General Plan in 2013. Tiering refers to using the analysis of general matters contained in a broader EIR such as the General Plan EIR, with later EIRs or negative declarations prepared for more focused projects (CEQA Guidelines Section 15152(a)) where the subsequent document focuses solely on the issues specific to the later project; in this EIR that is the Village Build -out Plan. Tiering can be used when a project is consistent with the General Plan and zoning of the city in which the project is located (CEQA Guidelines Section 15152(e)). Finally when tiering is used, the later EIR or negative declaration shall refer to the prior EIR and state where a copy of the prior EIR is available for review. The lead agency must also state that that it is using the tiering concept and that it is La Quinta Village Admin Draft EIR 2-2 August 2016 2 INTRODUCTION being tiered with the earlier EIR (CEQA Guidelines Section 15152 (g)). The City's General Plan and EIR may be reviewed at the City's Design and Development Department located at 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, or on line at the City's web site: http://www.la-guinta.org/your- government/community-development/planning-division/2035-la-guinta-general-plan The City of La Quinta issued a Notice of Preparation (NOP) to prepare an EIR for a 30 -day review period between October 5 and November 3, 2015. An Initial Study was prepared that accompanied the Notice of Preparation of the Draft EIR. The purpose of the Initial Study was to conduct a preliminary evaluation of the proposed La Quinta Village Build -out Plan in order to determine the focus of the Draft EIR. The Initial Study determined that there would be no environmental impacts associated with the proposed project for Agriculture and Forestry Resources, and Mineral Resources. The findings of the Initial Study are summarized in EIR Chapter 8, Other CEQA Required Sections. The NOP was circulated through the State Clearinghouse and sent to all responsible agencies, adjacent cities and the County of Riverside, and to interested parties. Issues raised by agencies and the public in response to the NOP were considered in the preparation of the Draft EIR. The NOP is contained in Appendix A of this EIR. The City received five comment letters in addition to the letter received from the Governor's Office of Planning and Research stating that the 30 -day review period ended and providing any comments from State agencies. Comments Received: Desert Sands Unified School District 1. Impacts on the District must be addressed in the EIR using the student generation rates to project fair shares of "true costs" of new school facilities. South Coast Air Quality Management District 1. Use SCAQMD's Air Quality Handbook, and the most recent guidance to evaluate Air Quality, including the latest CalEEMod software to evaluate regional impacts and localized air quality impacts. 2. If applicable, conduct a mobile source health risk assessment. Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission 1. After reviewing the NOP, the ALUC determined that the project area is outside the boundaries of all Airport Influence Areas. La Quinta Village Admin Draft EIR 2-3 August 2016 2 INTRODUCTION Imperial Irrigation District 1. The IID provided input on its requirements for rights-of-way and easements, and stated that any construction or operation on IID property will require an encroachment permit. 2. If a new IID facility is required or an existing facility must be modified or reconstructed, this should be included in the CEQA documentation to ensure that environmental impacts are fully mitigated. Southern California Association of Governments 1. The project should be evaluate for consistency with the goals and strategies of SCAG's Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy. 2.4 Organization of the EIR This EIR has been prepared as a project level EIR to evaluate the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan which, when implemented, will guide future development of a mix of land uses in the Village. The EIR is organized into the following main chapters and sections: Chapter 1: Executive Summary. This section includes a summary of the proposed La Quinta Village Build -out Plan and a discussion of the alternatives to the project. A brief description of the areas of controversy and issues to be resolved, an overview of the potential impacts, mitigation measures, and level of significance after mitigation, are included in this section. Chapter 2: Introduction. This chapter provides an introduction and overview describing the purpose of the EIR, its scope and components, and its review and certification process. This chapter also includes a summary of the comments received on the Notice of Preparation. Chapter 3: Project Description. This chapter includes a detailed description of the proposed project, including its location, existing site conditions, and project characteristics. A discussion of the project objectives, intended uses of the EIR, responsible agencies and their roles in the environmental process, and approvals that are needed for the proposed project are provided. Chapter 4: Environmental Setting. This chapter identifies the project site boundaries and the environmental setting on a local, City-wide and Regional level. Chapter 5: Environmental Impact Analysis. This chapter contains a comprehensive evaluation of the environmental impacts of the proposed project. Impacts are organized into major environmental topics. Each section includes a description of the environmental setting (the physical environment and the regulatory environment), methodology for evaluating impacts, significance criteria, potential impacts, a discussion of existing agency rules and regulations imposed on the project to reduce potential environmental effects of the project, proposed mitigation measures (in La Quinta Village Admin Draft EIR 2-4 August 2016 2 INTRODUCTION addition to environmental requirements already imposed on the project by regulatory agencies), and a finding of the level of significance after mitigation. The impact evaluation considers: direct impacts, indirect impacts, and cumulative impacts. The following specific environmental topics are addressed within Chapter 5. Section 5.1 — Aesthetics: Addresses the visual impacts that may occur with build -out of the La Quinta Village area. Section 5.2 — Air Quality: Addresses the local and regional air quality impacts associated with project implementation as well as consistency with the SCAQMD 2012 Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP). This section also includes an evaluation of Health Risk associated with Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) generated by on-site equipment and trucks that will access the site. Finally, this section addressed the potential for odors to affect existing and future sensitive receptors in the vicinity. Section 5.3 — Biological Resources: Addresses the project's impacts on habitat and wildlife in the area. Section 5.4 — Cultural Resources: Addresses the impacts of project development on historic buildings, archaeological and paleontological resources, and on Native American Cultural resources. Section 5.5 — Geology and Soils: Addresses the potential impacts the project may have on soils, and assesses the effects of project development in relation to geologic and seismic conditions. Section 5.6 — Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Addresses the project's estimated contribution to global warming through the emission of greenhouse gasses during construction and long term operation of the proposed Build -out Plan. Section 5.7 — Hazards and Hazardous Materials: Addresses the likelihood of the presence of hazardous materials or conditions on the project site and in the project area that may have the potential to impact human health. It also addresses hazards that may be associated with new uses. Section 5.8 — Hydrology and Water Quality: Addresses the impacts of the project on local hydrological conditions, including drainage areas, and changes in the flow rates. This section also summarizes the requirements under the County's MS4 Permit for stormwater control, retention and release. Section 5.9 — Land Use and Planning: Addresses the related land use impacts associated with implementation of the project, including the project's compatibility with surrounding land uses, and consistency with the City General Plan, Zoning Ordinance and regional Conservation Plans. Section 5.10 — Noise: Addresses the noise impacts that may occur during construction and operation of future land uses based on compliance with the City's Noise Ordinance. La Quinta Village Admin Draft EIR 2-5 August 2016 2 INTRODUCTION Section 5.11 — Population and Housing: Addresses the potential of the proposed project to induce direct or indirect population growth. Section 5.12 — Public Services: Addresses the impacts upon public service providers including fire, police, schools, parks, and other recreational facilities. Section 5.13 — Recreation: Addresses the potential impacts on recreation opportunities and recreational facilities. Section 5.14 — Traffic and Circulation: Addresses the impacts on the local and regional roadway system, parking, emergency access, public transportation, bicycle, and pedestrian access. Section 5.15 — Utilities and Service Systems: Addresses the impacts on water supply, wastewater treatment, storm drains, and solid waste. Chapter 6: Other CEQA Required Sections. This chapter provides a summary of significant environmental impacts, including unavoidable and growth -inducing impacts, and the Build -out Plan's irreversible and irretrievable commitment of resources. This chapter also provides a summary of environmental issues where findings can be made that the project would not cause an impact on the environment or that the impact would be negligible and therefore and explains why no further analysis in the EIR was required. Chapter 7: Alternatives to the Proposed Project. This chapter compares the impacts of the proposed project with three project alternatives: the No Project Alternative where no additional development would occur; a Less Intensive Alternative - Build -out Under the Existing General Plan; and an Alternative without the commercial center at the northwest corner of Washington Street and Calle Tampico. An environmentally superior alternative is identified. Chapter 8: Report Preparers. This chapter outlines the authors and staff that assisted in the preparation of the EIR, by name and affiliation. Chapter 9: References. This chapter contains a full list of references that were used in the preparation of the EIR. Appendices: Includes all notices and other procedural documents pertinent to the preparation of the EIR, as well as all technical material prepared to support the environmental analysis. 2.5 Reference Documents 2.5.1 Documents Incorporated by Reference As permitted by CEQA Guidelines Section 15150, this EIR has referenced several public documents. Information from the documents, has been incorporated by reference, and has been briefly summarized in the appropriate sections(s). La Quinta Village Admin Draft EIR 2-6 August 2016 2 INTRODUCTION Documents include: La Quinta General Plan 2035, 2013 La Quinta General Plan 2035 Program Environmental Impact Report, 2013 La Quinta Village Design Guidelines La Quinta Zoning Ordinance 2.5.2 Documents Prepared for the Project The technical studies prepared for the proposed project and other informational documents are listed below. These documents are included in their entirety on a CD at the back of this EIR. Appendix A Notice of Preparation and Comments Received Appendix B Air Quality/Global Climate Change Analysis Appendix C NRCS Custom Soils Report Appendix D EDR Report Appendix E City of La Quinta Focused Area Drainage Study Appendix F Downtown Area Drainage Study for City of La Quinta Appendix G La Quinta Village Hydrology Study Appendix H Traffic Impact Assessment La Quinta Village Admin Draft EIR 2-7 August 2016 INTRODUCTION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Admin Draft EIR 2-8 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Chapter 3 Project Description 3.1 Overview The project evaluated in this EIR is the implementation of the Village Build -out Plan (Plan) by the City of La Quinta; as well as a Zoning Code text amendment to increase the building height limitation from 35 feet to 60 feet within the Plan area; to reflect the increase in density, opportunities to create a more accessible area for non -motorized transportation; and to address the latest requirements for landscaping and irrigation. The EIR also evaluates the discontinuance of the La Quinta Village Design Guidelines (adopted in 1998) as the standards and guidelines for development in the Village. It is the City's intent moving forward, that new projects be reviewed on their own merits and how they integrate with other projects in the Village. In addition, in September 2015, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 528 which amended the Zoning Code to reduce the number of required parking spaces for properties within the Village Commercial Zoning District, for an interim period ending September 4, 2016. The intent is to encourage residents and visitors to frequent more than one business while visiting the Village, and for businesses to share parking when feasible. The Plan provides a roadmap for the physical development of properties in the Village Build -out Plan project area that will be used by City Staff and decision makers to review, evaluate and process future development proposals in the project area. This chapter includes all of the required elements for a Project Description as outlined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15124 including the location of the project area; a statement of objectives sought by the City in proposing the Plan; a general description of the project's technical, economic and environmental characteristics; a statement describing the intended use of the EIR; and a list of public agencies that must make decisions and/or issue permits for projects within the project area. The City of La Quinta (City) has undertaken a planning process to develop a build -out plan for the Village, its traditional downtown, that would provide for a mix of uses including: 1) vertical mixed use — where retail or professional office space occurs on the ground floor, with residential units above; 2) horizontal mixed use — where retail or professional office uses and higher density residential occur next to each other, and are integrated through pedestrian connections and common areas; or 3) mixed use added to existing commercial development where the residential project abuts or wraps around an existing commercial development. By creating a build -out plan that will foster the continued development of the Village as a pedestrian -oriented mixed use environment, and evaluating the potential environmental impacts of the Plan in this EIR, the City will be able to offer La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-1 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION property owners and developers the opportunity to streamline the planning process for their projects. There is no time table for ultimate build out to occur, as development will be driven by market forces and demand for new residential units and additional non-residential uses in the Village. However, 2035 represents the horizon year for the City's General Plan adopted in 2013, therefore it is reasonable to assume a similar time frame for the build -out of the City's Village. In addition, to provide a benchmark for growth in the Build -out Plan project area and continue to plan for future development in the project area, the Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) included an analysis of an Interim Year (2021). The intent is to evaluate a build -out scenario that will allow future projects to be approved based on the analysis provided in this EIR along with a menu of mitigation measures and performances standards that must be met in order to ensure that impacts on the physical environment would be less than significant. Intended Use of the EIR The City of La Quinta is the lead agency for the proposed project. The La Quinta City Council will consider the information presented in this document in making an informed decision regarding the approval and conditions of approval, or denial of the project. In addition, the EIR will be used in the evaluation of subsequent projects that will be proposed in the Village Build -out Plan project area. 3.2 Project Location and Setting The project area consists of approximately 137 acres of land, generally located north and south of Calle Tampico, east of Eisenhower Drive and west of Washington Street, and north of Avenue 52. Properties to the north of Calle Tampico include the 9.3 -acre property at the northwest corner of Calle Tampico and Washington Street, currently developed as a commercial center, existing offices, commercial and resort development (the Embassy Suites Hotel), as well as an apartment complex and school located on the east side of Eisenhower Drive. The project area is located in Sections 6 and 7, Township 6 South and Range 6/7 East, La Quinta 7.5" quad, and near its geographic center, Latitude/Longitude 33° 40' 34.1" N and 116° 18' 18.9" E. Exhibit 3-1, Regional Location, shows the location of the City in relation to the larger Coachella Valley area of Riverside County. Exhibit 3-2, City of La Quinta City Boundaries, shows the City's corporate boundary with the project area highlighted. Existing Conditions Exhibit 3-3, Project Site and Vicinity, shows boundaries of the Build -Out plan project area; and Exhibit 3-4, Site Photos, shows typical properties in the area. The locations of the site photos are shown in Exhibit 3-3. The surrounding area outside the boundaries of the project area is largely developed with La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-2 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION residential uses. Table 3-1, Existing Conditions in the Project Area, lists the land use types and development data in the project area. There are approximately 21 acres of vacant land in the project area that could be developed with a mix of uses, such as commercial, professional, and/or residential. Table 3-1 Existing Conditions in the Project Area Land Use Dwelling Units Square Feet Acres Residential New Non - Land Use Single Family 33 New 0.99 Multi -Family 251 14.01 Commercial Residential Residential Square Commercial 151,925 85.90 Other Land Uses Square Feet Feet Hotels + Casitas 290 -- 11.75 Civic Center 288,330 -- 18.82 School 12.74 Park for Redevelopment 6.50 Vacant 794 12,400 20.18 Total 284 du and 290 hotel rooms 151,925 136.74 Source: City of La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Land Use Data, August 2015. In addition, as described in Table 3-2, approximately 30 acres within the Plan area have the potential to redevelop, and 86 acres are expected to remain in their current developed condition. Table 3-2 Existing and Potential New Development in the Project Area Source: City of La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Land Use Data, August 2015. Notes: 1. Residential unit count includes existing residences, single - and multi -family. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-3 August 2016 Existing Potential Existing New Non - Land Use Acres Residential New Non- Residential Units (DU)' Residential Residential Square TOTAL Units (DU) Square Feet Feet Vacant Land 20.70 -- 436 -- 288,330 -- Land with the Potential for Redevelopment 30.20 -- 794 12,400 511,456 Existing Developed 284 DU Properties with no +290 hotel 85.90 139,525 -- -- Change in Land Use or rooms & Increased Density casitas 284 DU 1,481 DU, 290 +290 hotel hotel/ casita Total 136.74 1,230 DU 151,925 799.786 rooms & 960,711 square casitas feet Source: City of La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Land Use Data, August 2015. Notes: 1. Residential unit count includes existing residences, single - and multi -family. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-3 August 2016 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. 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KI. ur.l.,iii y ti 1v3onal r'ari h 60th Ave a 6611 Pre Legend 62 rid AVC La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Project Area X7,1 Ar• QCity of La Quinta Corporate Boundary „,,,r T.rF,xw6q�ic� sir e6ri A- 1 inch = 1.5 miles El 15 The Altum Group City of La Quinta Corporate Boundary La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 3-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-8 August 2016 .� oleo - •r.F• � r. L - . ..e..�..-T�'e••. u I k. ..r,•r.. rlv_.• � 4"W"G MWAVA '. 0. The Altura Group Ire. 4 LU 'vi Le _ LU -7.,4; -' GALLE FSTADO I F�-���b�'-•t� r•ni i r rc-rn nr• i�LLf Ow LLI 1w °Y r i 'il'a pap '. — E4 RC1 � _. J LLJ LLJ _ _ e'Q Legend rr r•.I -- IDA NUESTR0 �■ Village Commercial Zoning District AVFNLIF57 M _ Village Design Guideline Boundary -� w ilii • C] k�.r: �"L u 1 Photo Locations Ld S The Altura Group Ire. 4 LU 'vi Le _ LU -7.,4; -' GALLE FSTADO I F�-���b�'-•t� r•ni i r rc-rn nr• i�LLf Ow LLI 1w °Y r i 'il'a pap '. — E4 RC1 � _. J LLJ LLJ _ _ e'Q Legend ■ IDA NUESTR0 �■ Village Commercial Zoning District AVFNLIF57 M _ Village Design Guideline Boundary Village E I R Project Area N 1 Photo Locations W�1r E S Project Site and Vicinity La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 3-3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-10 August 2016 Source: Site Visit, 2015 The Altum Group Photo 4: View of vacant land in the project area facing west. Santa Rosa Mtns are in the background. Site Photos La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 3-4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-12 August 2016 Source: Site Visit, 2015 The Altum Group Photo 8: View of the park at the La Quinta Civic Center complex, facing northeast. Site Photos La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 4-4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-14 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION General Plan Designations Land Use Designation Definitions Exhibit 3-5, General Plan Land Use Designations, shows the existing General Plan land use designations for sites in the project area. The Land Use designations for the project area are Village Commercial, General Commercial (Shopping Center), Major Community Facilities (Civic Center, schools and utility facilities), and Recreational Open Space (La Quinta Community Park). Land uses within the Village Commercial designation include a mix of uses including commercial, professional office, and residential. Village Commercial The Village Commercial Designation applies specifically to the traditional Commercial core of the City, and allows specialty retail; such as boutiques and art galleries as well as restaurants, professional offices and services, and hotels. Apartments, condominiums and live -work space is also appropriate in this designation. As established in General Plan 2035 Policy LU -7.1, mixed use development is allowed in this designation. Mixed use projects can include vertical or horizontal combinations of land uses that are integrated through pedestrian connections and common areas; or can include residential units added to existing commercial development. General Commercial This Land Use designation applies to the northwest corner of Washington Street and Calle Tampico in the Plan area. The full range of commercial uses can occur within this designation, ranging from supermarkets and drugstores in a neighborhood shopping center, to major national retailers in large buildings. General Commercial uses also include professional offices, service businesses, restaurants, hotels or motels, research and development and warehousing or similar low impact quasi -industrial projects. As established in General Plan 2035 Policy LU -7.1, mixed use development is also appropriate in this designation. Major Community Facilities The Major Community Facilities Land Use designation has been assigned to existing or planned municipal, educational or public facilities; such as City and Desert Sands Unified School District facilities and buildings, utility facilities and buildings, fire stations, and public parking lots and similar uses. Recreational Open Space The Recreational Open Space designation applies to parks, recreation facilities (such as driving ranges, club houses and athletic facilities), and public and private golf courses. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-15 August 2016 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-16 August 2016 1 inch = 400 feet The Alhxm Group General Plan Land Use Designations La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 3-5 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-18 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Zoning District Definitions Exhibit 3-6, Zoning Designations, shows the existing zoning designations for sites in the project area. Zoning in the project area include Village Commercial, Neighborhood Commercial (Shopping Center), Major Community Facilities (Civic Center, schools and utility facilities), and Parks and Recreation (La Quinta Community Park). As part of the General Plan and Zoning Consistency Review conducted during the General Plan Update, Commercial Zoning designations, including the Neighborhood Commercial designation, are consistent with the General Commercial Land Use Designation. Village Commercial (VC) Zoning Requirements The City's Municipal Code, Title 9 contains the Zoning Code. Chapter 9.65, Village Commercial District provides specific guidance on the permitted uses and design guidelines for development in the La Quinta Village; in addition, the La Quinta Village: Design Guidelines, were adopted in 1998. The role of the design guidelines is to regulate uses and structures within the Village, implement the concepts and guidance set forth in the guidelines. Land uses and development proposed in the Village are designed and evaluated in conjunction with those guidelines. Purpose of Design and Development. The following purpose statements reflect the design concepts envisioned by the guidelines: 1. Develop the Village area as a year-round commercial, residential and recreational location, serving residents and guests of the greater La Quinta community; 2. Promote development standards to accommodate projects and activities which will provide goods, services and housing in a design environment supportive of the concepts set out in the guidelines: promoting pedestrian accessibility and scale, maintaining connections to La Quinta's artistic and architectural heritage, and guiding design to acknowledge and embrace the desert environment. Section 9.65.015 of Chapter 9.65 requires that all new development proposals on parcels one-half acre or greater must be developed under a specific plan. A "new development proposal" is defined as new building construction proposed for vacant property or associated with demolition and reconstruction of an existing building. The purpose in requiring a specific plan is to ensure: 1. Consistency with General Plan. The plan or amendment is consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the general plan. 2. Public Welfare. Approval of the plan or amendment will not create conditions materially detrimental to the public health, safety and general welfare. 3. Land Use Compatibility. The specific plan is compatible with zoning on adjacent properties. 4. Property Suitability. The specific plan is suitable and appropriate for the subject property. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-19 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Because the Village Build -out Plan encompasses the Village and some adjacent properties, the City has proposed a build -out scenario that will allow flexibility in the types of uses, building heights and building setbacks, to provide the opportunity for future applicants to creatively design a pedestrian friendly, bicycle friendly, livable City center. The design guidelines' requirements, including architectural guidelines and the requirement for a Specific Plan for developments on land greater than one half acre, will be eliminated with implementation of the Plan. Flexibility is the key in that under the Existing Zoning Code, the Village Commercial Zone allows for a variety of land use types that, when combined with increased accessibility and the relaxation of building heights will encourage a walkable, livable mixed use community within the heart of the City. Permitted uses in the Village Commercial Zone include: • Multifamily Residential Dwellings • Commercial guest lodging • Indoor or outdoor professional art studios, displays and/or galleries • Professional service offices providing limited sales • Prepared food service • Public indoor assembly/entertainment facilities • Indoor facilities for education, training, self-help and improvement • Indoor/outdoor cultural, historic and similar displays and • Retail merchandise sales of limited goods The permitted uses in the Village area do not preclude other similar uses which are compatible with the specifically identified uses and otherwise meet the criteria of the Zoning Ordinance. General Development Standards General development standards include standards for setbacks, parking, pedestrian access, height, landscaping, visual screening, lighting and signage. Neighborhood Commercial (CN) The Neighborhood Commercial (CH) district is intended to provide for the development and regulation of small-scale commercial areas located at the intersections of arterial highways as shown on the General Plan. The CN district is intended to provide for the sale of food, drugs, sundries and personal services to meet the daily needs of a neighborhood area. The existing shopping center at the northwest corner of Washington Street and Calle Tampico is zoned CN and includes a variety of retail uses to serve the neighborhood. This site has the potential to increase the amount of commercial uses under the Village Build -out Plan by approximately 52,000 square feet. This site may also include residential, as it is considered part of the residential unit count allowed north of Calle Tampico in Table 3-3. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-20 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Major Community Facilities (MC) The Major Community facilities in the Village Build -out area are as follows: 1. Buildings and open space associated with the Civic Center located at the southwest corner of Washington Street and Calle Tampico. The Civic Center includes the City Hall, Civic Center Park, Library and Wellness Center. 2. A City -owned parking lot located between Avenida Bermudas on the east, and Avenida Navarro on the west, east of the La Quinta Community Park. 3. The La Quinta Museum located on the southeast corner of Avenida Montezuma and Avenida Mendoza, immediately south of the La Quinta Community Park. 4. Benjamin Franklin Elementary School at the northeast corner of Eisenhower Drive and Calle Tampico. 5. John Adams Elementary School located east of Desert Club Drive and north of Springtime Way. The school closed permanently at the end of the 2015/2016 school year. No new uses are proposed for these sites. Parks and Recreation (PR) La Quinta Community Park is located east of Eisenhower Drive south of Calle Tampico. The site includes a baseball field, courts, play equipment and the Community Fitness Center. No new uses are proposed for this site. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-21 August 2016 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-22 August 2016 1 inch = 400 feet F� The Altum Group Zoning Designations La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 3-6 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-24 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 3.3 Project Description The City of La Quinta experienced significant growth in the 1990's and 2000's. This growth shifted the focus of commercial activity in the City from The Village, the traditional small-scale commercial core, to the major retail outlets on the Highway 111 corridor. However, the Village has remained a focus of the City's economic development strategy since incorporation. Over the years, the City has completed several planning efforts, with varying levels of success. The 2035 General Plan, adopted in 2013, included the Village as a focus area, and added provisions to encourage mixed use development in this area. At this time, development interest in The Village is increasing, and the City wishes to have all the tools it needs in place to encourage and promote development, including the ability for applicants to develop multi -story buildings in order to meet the City's goal for increased density in the Village. As described above, the focus of the Village Build -out Plan is on Village Commercial designated properties, and the lands immediately north of Calle Tampico, including the Neighborhood Commercial site at the northwest corner of Calle Tampico and Washington Street. As shown in Exhibit 3-6 the majority of the Village Build -out Plan project area that is either vacant or could be redeveloped is designated Village Commercial. Project Objectives The City's goal is to continue to develop the Village as a livable and sustainable neighborhood - reminiscent of older cities - where land uses are more interconnected, compact, and offer a mix of uses, providing opportunities for people to live, work, and shop within the neighborhood. In order to achieve this goal, a number of objectives have been identified based on the concept of mixed- use. The City's objectives in proposing the Village Build -out Plan are as follows: • Continue the development of the Village as a mixed use neighborhood by encouraging additional residential and commercial development. • Amend the Zoning Code Text for the Village Commercial District, south of Calle Tampico to encourage mixed use development, and allow an increase in building height (subject to site plan review on a project by project basis) to allow an increase in density of residential uses. • Ensure that public facilities and infrastructure are adequate to support the increase in intensity of land uses in the Village. • Capitalize on unique development opportunities in the Village area by focusing on shopping, dining, entertainment, professional and mixed use options while improving the aesthetics of the community. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-25 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION • Enforce existing development standards that: 1) create attractive, useable and safe public spaces; and 2) promote safe indoor and outdoor spaces and provide emergency services that are adequately funded, staffed, and equipped to provide timely responses. Project Description The proposed project is the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan that identifies future development and redevelopment opportunities in the project area; and assumes development of the remaining vacant properties, as well as redevelopment of underutilized properties with more intensive uses. This would include residential development at densities of 20-30 dwelling units per acre, which is higher than the density allowed under the High Density Residential designation, up to 16 dwelling units per acre. The Village Commercial zoning designation allows multifamily residential dwellings such as condominiums, apartments and similar housing types at densities determined on a site specific basis, based on the development capacity for the proposed uses on the site. The Planning Commission ultimately determines the density of a proposed project. Related to the Plan are proposed Zoning Code text amendments to allow the increase in density and height in the Village Commercial District. Table 3-2 shows total acreage in the project area and the data for existing and potential future uses. This density can be achieved only by eliminating the height restriction of 35 feet and allowing for buildings to be 3 to 5 stories, determined on a project by project basis through site plan review. Table 3-3 Build -out Assumptions by Area, lists new land developed on the underutilized properties in the Village Build -out Plan project area. Exhibit 3-7, Village Build -Out Plan Analysis, shows a geographic representation of Table 3-3. There is one approved mixed-use project in the Village (the Villas at Old Town) and, other specific projects are currently proposed, therefore, the City has made assumptions for future opportunities for development in the Village Build -out Plan project area. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-26 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Table 3-3 Build -out Assumptions by Area Build -out Area Assumptions' Existing/Future Existing/Future Residentia12 Non Res (sq ft)3 Ground floor commercial and residential above Existing: 3 du Existing: 22,825 East of Bermudas 50% res @20du/ac and Future: 396 du Future: 302,531 50% @25 du/ac Total: 399 du Total: 343,356 West of Navarro Ground floor commercial Existing: 23 du Existing: 7,200 and 50% @20du/ac and 50% Future: 130 du Future: 21,800 @25 du/ac Total: 153 du Total: 29,000 sq ft Between Navaro Ground floor commercial Existing: 6 du Existing: 11,000 and Bermudas and residential above Future: 59 du Future: 45,410 100% @25du/ac Total: 65 du Total: 56,410 North of Calle Ground floor commercial Existing: 251 du Tampico and residential above plus 290 hotel rooms Existing: 98,500 100% @30 du/ac Future: 613 du Future: 346,465 Total: 864 du Total: 444,996565 Misc Lots % acre 2 -story buildings Existing: 1 du Existing: 12,400 of less Commercial only, no Future: 0 du Future: 92,600 residential Total: 1 du Total: 105,000 TOTAL Existing: 284 du Existing: 151,925 Future: 1,198 du Future: 808,786 Total: 1,482 du Total 960,711 Source: City of La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Land Use Data, August 2015. Notes: 1. Assumes new dwelling units will be developed over commercial uses, in multiple story buildings. 2. Assumes the existing dwelling units will remain in place. 3. Assumes that some existing non-residential buildings will be replaced with new buildings. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-27 August 2016 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-28 August 2016 51 El 1-5 The Altura Group ■ � f ■ �, T , 6,900 st ' 777AC p' ■ S ■ 27.200 aF � . E 36.49AC f ■ E � - 'Awl f-016- ■ ..: .. ' _ • Y 7.459i" ■ ,-� .95 AC d I � J E 716 ❑rl., '� o •'. "J 3,,00n c1 13.6040 s,c( _ ■ . " '.700 sF L:d's .IM1 AC < .BB AC S.q9 AC 'J w X19 ❑V w rrnwMAC Nllw *.1 E �_y I ■■ M ' •r,wxa Q F r.,, so a 1 %AC w !'. .78 RC 6 AC CJ] ly w AA ' saoo=t N ■ 1.11 AC l.L. 1[ ,75 RC ■ 6.5'C UALLE P. s! —� TADO . X9 AS S A ��■ 0 - -S'AC * mr -r2 RC �► O , ou W LU ;.ow j LU m ]3�L n o v ¢ 0 9Z AC z LU z CALLE HIDALGO w 3,esa.} t=j ].68AC n Qw d r L C. !-1 2 ■ _ a ,.mv Ar o ■ Uj z ¢ � J Lim uJ CALLE SINALOA I.P. 4G_ ell ,-,3AC 11 �..................... - 9250W 5.32 AC 3.39 AC MM DES 71 VVINTER,�( Jdo ,,111 ,nAC ■ 'T `T - AVENIDANUESTRA asoou ��■•�` AVENUE 5J 3.9 AC 00 w' DEACON OR 0) Village Build -out Plan Analysis La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Environmental Impact Report Legend Vacant Land Potential Redevelopment Existing Development Not to be changed —'" Village Commercial —..� Boundary N Assessor's Parcels WZ6_41>E 1��t S Exhibit 3-7 AVENIDA LA FONDA I Pr fn <:D :DJ x low—, IL d1'# Id1 ■ _< N - r - • i LLJ JLJLJ LLJ __j wz ,,111 ,nAC ■ 'T `T - AVENIDANUESTRA asoou ��■•�` AVENUE 5J 3.9 AC 00 w' DEACON OR 0) Village Build -out Plan Analysis La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Environmental Impact Report Legend Vacant Land Potential Redevelopment Existing Development Not to be changed —'" Village Commercial —..� Boundary N Assessor's Parcels WZ6_41>E 1��t S Exhibit 3-7 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-30 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Roadway Improvements In order to encourage residents and visitors that the Village is a walkable, bikeable community, certain road improvements are proposed that are designed to slow vehicle traffic on the main streets. See Exhibit 3-8, Village Build -out Circulation Plan. • Conversion of Eisenhower Drive/Calle Tampico from a traffic signal control to a yield - controlled roundabout; • Conversion of Eisenhower Drive/Avenida Montezuma from an all -way stop control to a yield -controlled roundabout; • Conversion of Avenida Bermudas/Calle Tampico from a traffic signal control to a yield controlled roundabout; • Conversion of Avenida Bermudas/Calle Sinaloa from a traffic signal control to a yield controlled roundabout (with a northbound right -turn bypass lane); • Conversion of Desert Club Drive/Calle Tampico from a traffic signal control to a yield - controlled roundabout; • Modification of Eisenhower Drive between Calle Tampico and Calle Sinaloa from two lanes in each direction to one lane in each direction; • Modification of Calle Tampico between Eisenhower Drive and Desert Club Drive from two lanes in each direction to one lane in each direction; • Modification of Calle Sinaloa between Eisenhower Drive and Avenida Bermudas from two lanes in each direction to one lane in each direction; • Construct a raised median at Washington Street/Avenida La Fonda to restrict the eastbound left -turn movement; • Back -in parking on Calle Tampico between Avenida Bermudas and Desert Club Drive; and • Mid -block crosswalks at four locations along Calle Tampico and one location at Calle Sinaloa/Avenida Villa. Properly designed modern roundabouts can reduce unnecessary traffic stops, traffic collisions, and vehicle speeds, while improving efficiency and overall multi -modal mobility. Final roundabout design considerations should include turning radius for large vehicles, approach deflection, bicycle/pedestrian accommodations, and right-of-way constraints. The proposed lane modifications would provide additional capacity for enhanced parkway facilities, on -street parking, and/or protected bicycle/NEV facilities. Additional circulation improvements La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-31 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION include mini roundabouts along Avenida Bermudas near Calle Estado and additional sidewalk infrastructure throughout the Village. As a whole, the Village Buildout Circulation Plan is likely to result in reduced vehicle speeds and provide the facilities necessary for a multi -modal and vibrant downtown environment within the Village. Exhibit 3-9, Multi -Modal Street Improvements (Example), shows an example of some of the possible features that could be implemented as a result of the proposed Village Buildout Circulation Plan (source: walklive.org). • Other improvements that are proposed to increase pedestrian safety and access are as follows: o Install a pedestrian activated flashing light crosswalk on Calle Sinaloa at Avenida Villa o Install new sidewalks where needed o Install a third left turn lane from eastbound Avenue 52 and northbound Washington Street o Install a "worm" median at the intersection of Avenida La Fonda at Washington Street to facilitate right -turn only at this intersection o Provide additional bike lanes that can accommodate bicycles and golf carts Parking Demand Management The City of La Quinta approved the Village District Parking Study in 2006 that identified short-term and long-term strategies to improve parking in the Village. The Parking Study identified 2,919 parking spaces within the study area, with 2,417 spaces in off- street parking lots, and the remaining 502 space located on the streets within the Village. Residential parking was not counted toward the total. Since 2006, a number of new projects have been developed in the Village Build -out Plan project area. These projects added an additional 386 off-street parking spaces, increasing the total number of spaces in parking lots to 2,803. Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will allow the continued development of the Village with a mix of residential, retail, commercial office and professional office uses to create an urban environment at a human scale so that people feel comfortable walking or riding a bicycle to and around the Village. Future residential development projects will be required to provide adequate parking for units built. However, for the other uses, the mixed use concept provides efficiencies of land use whereby people will likely visit one or more restaurants, shops or offices during a trip to the Village, resulting in a lower demand for parking than what is generally required for individual land uses. And, because the Build -out Plan includes both residential and non-residential uses, local residents would not have to drive to shop or obtain commercial or professional services. Table 3-4, Implementation Process for Parking Management Strategies, shows the approximate timeline for La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-32 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION implementing the proposed Parking Management Strategies. Parking Management Strategies being considered by the City for adoption in the Village are as follows: Parking Management Strategies PM1. Educational Programs - Educate businesses on ways to incentivize carpooling, public transportation, walking, and bicycling as a mode of transportation for employees. - Educate the public about the operations and benefits of various parking strategies as these are implemented within the study area. PM2. Static Parking Information - Continue static event -based signage during events such as the La Quinta Arts Festival, the Old Town Car Show, and other events in the La Quinta Village. - Enhance parking lot signage and branding of public parking lots. - Work with private property owners to allow public parking when businesses are closed. - Consider regulating signage on private parking facilities. PM3. Shared Parking - Condition new developments so they accommodate shared parking. PM4. Spillover and Overflow Parking Management - Conduct periodic parking occupancy studies in peak periods to determine and monitor the prevalence of shoppers and employers parking in residential areas, as well as maximum occupancy of current public areas. - Consider instituting resident -only parking programs as appropriate in areas where spillover and overflow parking becomes common. Programs will be based on community dialogue and pricing options. - Consider a pilot program for participation in an on -street parking program, in which residents may park for free, shoppers and employees pay to park, and revenue is used for neighborhood improvements. PM5. Transit/Shuttle - Create a transit/shuttle program similar to the programs used at EI Paseo or in Downtown Palm Springs. Identify peak periods of parking to allow for shuttling shoppers and employees to and from Village. This will provide for more convenient access and service available to parking located furthest away from the center of the La Quinta Village, primarily focused on Zones 1 and 5. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-33 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION PM6. Walkability to Improve Parking Utilization Establish a system of walking routes specialized towards a topic such as historic sites like the La Quinta Museum, arts like the Old Town Artisan Studio, or health -oriented walking loops. PM7. Class 3 Bikeway to Improve Parking Utilization Consider construction of a Class 3 Bikeway (Shared Lane) within the heart of Village and following through walkability improvements for greater promotion of a healthy -living lifestyle, tourism, and alleviation in overflow parking. Confirmation of this recommendation would require engineering studies to determine the feasibility and costs of this strategy. PZ1. Parking Conditions Condition new developments, major remodels, and CUPs to include applicable parking management strategies. PZ2. Parking Time Limits and Regulations - Create parking time limits and regulations under a pricing system and determine whether modifications are required to time limits for special events and in -season activities. PZ3. Business Improvement District - Determine if the business community is interested in a Business Improvement District, to create an assessment formula with revenue generated and reinvested into parking, and access management programs to benefit the Village area. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-34 August 2016 y •� nsiw _ •�iirew� _ ,7.•.. _ �. `rte - v r� .>,i � � �'Vr} .• i�l 4 -tis ! �� i` � \. 1 1 `'•fir] Y _- _ ..���r�rS�F- -- _ Y x,•.. �' •Q,." l_xi(1:I1•l -r1. iT Af -y F' s � fir.::} , I ` •IIF ' i_,�-. C.i_ `o- � A A. - �.,a h.+' . �•YLLE 4A,IG:. T, '� Y'.i •jr� ilk - , �,._ .�L �3 y J f Source: Kunzman Associates, 2016 The Altum Group IF Village Build -Out Circulation Plan La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 3-8 Legend Roundabavl z/ N.. or Lams tjr .adDam am VV_ ✓ (f Btd M PIWN T6111 Len I I Padethian ClaEaing Tyro dead End (Calla Amlgol Sidewalk] u� Wa1 �ninwl Village Build -Out Circulation Plan La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 3-8 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-36 August 2016 Parking Roundabout -r' PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-38 August 2016 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Table 3-4 Implementation Process for Parking Management Strategies Entity Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Years 4& 5 • Continue static event -based • Enhance branding for lots and signage (PM2) regulate signage (PM2) • Pilot program for shuttle • Conduct parking occupancy • Implement • Implement City service (PM5) study to review progress (P4) M Walkability Routes Walkability Routes • Condition new developments • Implement Walkability Routes (PM6) (PM6) so they accommodate shared (PM6) parking. (PM3) � Class 3 Bikeway implemented (PM7) • Partner with City on designing • Implement • Implement City & Business education programs for • Implement Education Program Education Education Community community (PM1) (pM1) Program (PM1) Program (PM1) City & Parking . Partner with City on shared • Condition new developments Operators / parking explorations (PM3) so they accommodate shared Designated Staff g parking. (PM3) • Implement • Participate with City in Walkability Routes . Implement monitoring programs (PM4) (PM6) Walkability Routes City & Residential • Establish Walkability Routes (PM6) Community (PM6) La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-39 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Build -Out Schedule The City's planning effort is focused on streamlining the regulatory process and facilitating a broad range of uses; developing a build -out scenario that addresses maximum potential commercial square footage and residential units; developing a network of public spaces and pedestrian, bike, and golf cart routes throughout the project area; and assuring that infrastructure is planned to accommodate build -out. The street grid is in place, and no major changes are anticipated. The City's General Plan was adopted in 2013 and focused on the next 20+ years, through 2035. To evaluate the potential environmental effects of the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, the assumption for build -out is that development of vacant parcels and the redevelopment of existing non-residential properties would occur between 2017 and 2035 for a total of 18 years. It is the City's intent to allow the Village area to continue to develop through market forces including demand for additional housing, commercial uses, and professional office space. For example, the Villas at Old Town, a mixed-use project, consists of 20,000 square feet of ground floor retail space, underground parking, and 84 condominiums above, to be built in two phases on an approximately 3.5 - acre site at the southeast corner of Calle Tampico and Desert Club Drive. This project is included in the build -out calculations shown in Table 3-3. 3.4 Other Public Agencies Development in the City of La Quinta requires a number of City -issued permits and approvals as development projects are proposed. The proposed Village Build -out Plan will require the following approvals: • Approval of the Build -out Plan • Approval of Zoning Code Text Changes • Certification of the Environmental Impact Report Subsequent projects proposed in the Village may require one or more of the following approvals: • Site Development Permit (Architectural and Site Plan Review) • Conditional Use Permit In addition, agencies that may require permits are listed in Table 3-5, Permitting Agencies: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-40 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Table 3-5 Permitting Agencies Agency Permit/Approval Required Federal None State State Water Resources Control Board Construction Stormwater General Permit; Notice of Intent to Comply with Section 402 of the Clean Water Act, Construction Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP); Issue Waste Discharge Identification Number (WDID) Regional South Coast Air Quality Management PM -10 Plan for compliance with Rule 403.1; Dust Control in District the Coachella Valley. Coachella Valley Association of Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan Governments (CVAG) (CVMSHCP) (Payment of fees); Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee (TUMF). Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) Permits to discharge into the La Quinta Evacuation Channel. 3.5 Cumulative Projects to be Evaluated with the Proposed Project State CEQA Guidelines Section 15355 defines cumulative impacts as follows: "Cumulative impacts refers to two or more individual effects which, when considered together, are considerable or which compound or increase other environmental impacts. (a) The individual effects may be changes resulting from a single project or a number of separate projects. (b) The cumulative impact from several projects is the change in the environment which results from the incremental impact of the project when added to other closely related past, present, and reasonably foreseeable probable future projects. Cumulative impacts can result from individually minor but collectively significant projects taking place over a period of time." State CEQA Guidelines Section 15130 requires that an EIR discuss the cumulative impacts of a project when the project's incremental effect is cumulatively considerable. For the purposes of this EIR, "Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of an individual 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 (State CEQA Guidelines Section 15065(a)(3)). In accordance with State CEQA Guidelines Section 15130(b): "The discussion of cumulative impacts shall reflect the severity of the impacts and their likelihood of occurrence, the discussion need not provide as great a level of detail as is provided for the effects attributable to the project alone." It then goes on to say: " The discussion should be guided by standards of practicality and reasonableness, and should La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-41 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION focus on the cumulative impact to which identified other projects contribute rather than the attributes of other projects that do not contribute to the cumulative impact." In identifying projects that may contribute to cumulative impacts, the State CEQA Guidelines allow one of two options: 1. The "list approach"- a list of past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future projects, producing related or cumulative impacts, including those that are outside the control of the lead agency; or 2. The "summary of projections" method - a summary of projections contained in an adopted General Plan or related planning document, which is designed to evaluate regional or area -wide conditions. The first method is being employed in the evaluation of the proposed Build -out Plan because, although the project area is located near the center of the City, the Village is the central gathering place and it is likely that most City residents and visitors would come to shop, socialize, or work. Therefore, a City- wide cumulative project summary report showing currently approved, under construction, and pending developments was provided by City staff. The cumulative project list was generated for the Traffic Impact Analysis, and represents recently approved projects, projects under construction, and projects that are currently going through the entitlement process. Table 3-6, List of Cumulative Projects, provides a description of cumulative projects, while Exhibit 3-10, Cumulative Project Locations, shows the spatial relationships between the cumulative projects identified in Table 3-6 and the Village Build -out Plan project area. The ID numbers associated with the other development projects are taken from a larger list of pending or recently approved projects throughout the City of La Quinta. The complete City-wide Cumulative Project Summary Report Projects Approved/Under Construction/Pending Residential Projects Approved and/or Under Construction (Permit data current to 8/1/15), is included in Appendix C of the General Plan Draft EIR. Those projects listed in Table 3-7 and shown on Exhibit 3-10, represent only those projects that were considered to be related in proximity to the project area, and thus when combined with future projects in the project area have the potential to cause a cumulatively significant impact. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-42 August 2016 At, las •Ar a } .1111 Iroquds pr Irn.b .+li �e':��II-• nn ntr, -; lilt 2 e 'A� $ 9 Mlive ShameMiles Ave 3 p`' k kl.r .h Or Le 0 u Ihla Pork i�.>tr list rirn[ward flu Dr N La❑undo n HIP SCitanl� CL a AYan4e 46 U ndc. Iln• n lktoo I m c � I :a .. nnrhe �4Id iiOralfie � rSU � Mrd %�IfiYQ ¢-.. AYen7■8-48 .... — e 49 � �anth pta _ ..� •r G N W - ��7 E S Source: Kunzman Associates, 2016 E115 The Altum Group Cumulative Development Projects La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Legend Q =Other Development ID (see Table 4.5, Cumulative Development Projects) Exhibit 3-10 �ss�hower pr ti ❑ N t Ranch. LaQurnla $ 490k Ave o �+ �z r C °hal _uurn ry _ lut•: rad 3 Cvunkr. Ck. = S Avenida Femanao �y O SDrF 7 r - A1111050 t'mrte AvonuaSLL on 50W Awe! � e 4 ! o O Via Mandarina PnmElag� a� ul o a a ' a Cd4:e ° �i7 G Pina e C�•rrfha �AL� 4'r'�g irl:+inr?in•.'w.i Cmnlr,''luC S15tj}u� a,�Nonrezri 11 V cdi Llya 9` Hr+rs n Ale rW pr.acanOrE 84a� O Ca1leSinaloa zd '� Rurns Calle Rurangon >,irY rl 4� r• �'n4e 52 _ .-- _ -�r�tt:�,xa�=; �,, 32nd Ave ° rr..1.1.. r. ti izll ZYaj. .:••I _lii L• �,y 3 Calle Sanas= G ..,.,r •_Ir.r •-��le EE ❑9g, ��� N .4,3, Aessar �- C4q� >43�3n�TC d u N W - ��7 E S Source: Kunzman Associates, 2016 E115 The Altum Group Cumulative Development Projects La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Legend Q =Other Development ID (see Table 4.5, Cumulative Development Projects) Exhibit 3-10 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-44 August 2016 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Table 3-6 List of Cumulative Projects Other I ohm Development ID Project Name Land Use Quantity' UnitS2 1 TR 29894 - Hideaway Single -Family Detached 218 DU 8 TR 30138 - Diamonte Single -Family Detached 47 DU SP 2003-069 - 10 Watermarke Single -Family Detached 82 DU 11 SP 2003-070 - Codorniz Townhomes 58 DU TR 31348 - Estates at 14 Point Happy Single -Family Detached 32 DU 19 TT 32397 - Canyon Ridge Single -Family Detached 74 DU 22 TR 31852 - Polo Estates Single -Family Detached 14 DU 23 TT 33085 - Core Homes Single -Family Detached 7 DU 29 TT 34038 - Casa LQ Condominiums 20 DU TR 28409 - Flores de 30 Montanas Single -Family Detached 9 DU 34 Tradition Club Single -Family Detached 89 DU 42 TR 32571 - Dorado Single -Family Detached 15 DU 43 TT 36279 - Orchards Single -Family Detached 11 DU 50 Washington 50 Gas Station/ C. Store & Car Wash 20 FP Pass -By (62% AM, 56% PM) Fast -Food Restaurant w/ Drive Thru 6,000 SF Pass -By (49% AM, 50% PM) Office 18,000 SF Shopping Center 18,000 SF Pass -By (34% PM) Subtotal DU 676 Subtotal SF 42,000 52 Villas at Old Town Condominiums 84 DU Retail 20,000 SF Subtotal DU 84 Subtotal SF 20,000 53 Silver Rock Resort Golf Course 18 Holes Hotel 435 RM Conference Center 71,000 SF Subtotal SF 71,000 54 Shopping Center Shopping Center 100,000 SF Pass -By (34% PM) Subtotal SF 100,000 55 La Paloma Assisted Living Congregate Care 236 DU Assisted Living 38 Beds Subtotal 57 Washington Park Shopping Center 109,650 SF La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-45 August 2016 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Table 3-6 List of Cumulative Projects (Continued) Other Development ID Project Name Land Use Quantityl Units2 58 Centerpointe Office 117,900 SF High Turnover (Sit -Down) Restaurant 6,000 SF Pass -By (43% PM) Subtotal DU 236 Subtotal SF 233,550 60 Pavilions Retail 0 SF 61 Centre at La Quinta Shopping Center 300,000 SF 62 111 La Quinta Centre Shopping Center 123,600 SF 63 Caleo Bay Park Shopping Center 17,595 SF 64 VUP 06-035 Retail 11,025 SF 65 Jefferson Plaza Shopping Center 10,900 SF 66 La Quinta Square Fast -Food Restaurant w/ Drive Thru Pass -By (49% AM, 50% PM) Supermarket Retail Subtotal SF 4,750 17,020 8,500 493,390 SF SF SF TOTAL DU 1 996 TOTAL SF 959,940 SF Source: Institute of Transportation Engineers, Trip Generation Manual, 9th Edition, 2012. Notes: 1. For approved projects, quantity shown reflects unconstructed development remaining. 2. DU = Dwelling Units; SF = Square Feet; RM = Rooms; FP = Fueling Positions La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 3-46 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Chapter 4 Environmental Setting This Section of the EIR presents the regional and local setting for the La Quinta Village, and sets the stage for the Environmental Impact Analysis provided in Chapter 5, Environmental Impact Analysis. The environmental setting is characterized for each of the environmental topics that will be evaluated in this EIR. 4.1 Aesthetics The City of La Quinta is located in the eastern Coachella Valley along the eastern slope of the Santa Rosa Mountains. The Santa Rosa Mountains are the southerly extension of the San Jacinto Mountains. The tallest mountain within this range is Mt. San Jacinto which forms the westerly end of the Coachella Valley. Mt. San Jacinto rises to an elevation of 10,804 feet and is the furthest north peak of the San Jacinto Mountains range. Due to the location of the Village near the Santa Rosa Mountains, Mt. San Jacinto is not visible from the Village. The Santa Rosa Mountains form a dramatic backdrop to the City's western boundary. Toro Peak is the tallest mountain in the Santa Rosa Mountains, rising to 8,717 feet. Closer, although much lower, are the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains, known as the Coral Mountains. The Coral Mountains are located within the La Quinta corporate boundary and rise about 1,000 feet above sea level. As their name implies, the Coral Mountains look like giant coral reefs springing up from the valley floor. The Cove area of the City, located to the south and west of the Village is situated within these mountains. The La Quinta Village area is located at the northeastern edge of the cove area and the Coral Mountains are located to the west of the Village area, making up the prime visual resource in the area. Other mountains providing a visual resource for La Quinta include the San Bernardino Mountains to the northwest, Little San Bernardino Mountains to the north, and the Indio Hills to the northeast and east, below the Little San Bernardinos. These mountains are further away and only visible from portions of the La Quinta Village area. The Village Build -out Plan will result in growth and development throughout the project area, which may cause impacts to existing aesthetic and visual resources, by partially blocking existing views of the Santa Rosa Mountains. A detailed analysis of visual impacts is addressed in Section 5.1, Aesthetics. The La Quinta Village is characterized by one and two story commercial and professional office buildings, the Civic Center, Park and Library, a middle school, a resort/spa, an apartment complex with 251 units, and 33 single family residences interspersed with vacant lots. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-1 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING 4.2 Agricultural Resources Agriculture has historically been a major economic sector in the eastern portion of the Coachella Valley, including La Quinta. Although most of the farms within the incorporated regions of La Quinta no longer exist, agriculture is still an economic factor east of the City. The Riverside County Important Farmland 2012 Map, developed by the California Department of Conservation, highlights areas within the Coachella Valley that are important agricultural producing lands. Prime Farmland includes areas with both good physical and chemical attributes able to sustain long-term agriculture production. Unique Farmland areas produce crops of statewide importance; however contain lower quality soils than those within Prime Farmland. Farmland of Local Importance are lands generally without irrigation, and which produce dry crops that may be important locally, but are not important for statewide agriculture production. Southeast of the La Quinta Village, a portion of incorporated La Quinta, and land within the General Plan Sphere of Influence, contain lands listed as Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, and Farmland of Local Importance. In total, there are approximately 9,100 acres of such lands within the City limits and Sphere. The La Quinta Village is within an area of urban and built up land. Implementation of the Build -out Plan would not impact any Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or farmland of Statewide Importance. Chapter 6, Other CEQA Sections, summarizes the analysis that led to the finding of no impact on agricultural resources. 4.3 Air Quality Air quality in a given location is influenced by the type and concentration of pollutants emitted locally and regionally. The Coachella Valley, including the City of La Quinta, is located within the Salton Sea Air Basin (SSAB). The SSAB shares a boundary with the San Diego Air Basin to the west, the South Coast Air Basin to the northwest, and the Mojave Desert Air Basin to the north. The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) is responsible for establishing the criteria by which air quality is measured in the Coachella Valley. In the Coachella Valley, air quality has deteriorated over the last few decades due to local growth, increased development, industry and construction activities both locally and regionally. While local emissions of pollutants affect air quality in the Coachella Valley, some of the air quality degradation can be attributed to sources outside of the SSAB, particularly from within the South Coast Air Basin, located west of the region. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-2 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Of all the criteria pollutants, ozone and suspended particulates (PM10 and PM2.5) are the most prevalent in the Coachella Valley; other pollutants are not believed to constitute significant threats to public health. Ozone and PM10 concentrations are recorded at monitoring stations on Jackson Street in Indio and the Palm Springs International Airport. Data collected at local monitoring stations show a downward trend in the amount of days over ozone and PM10 thresholds, however the SSAB continues to be classified as a "serious" ozone non -attainment area. The 2007 Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) was prepared to satisfy the State Implementation Plan (SIP) requirements of the Clean Air Act, due to non -attainment status. In regards to PM10 levels, the region has also historically been designated as a serious non -attainment area for PM1o, however due to new monitoring techniques that discount strong wind events, the SCAQMD has worked on re - designating the area from non -attainment to attainment for PM1o. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved SCAQMD's PM10 Redesignation Request and Maintenance Plan in February 2010. This Plan details a strategy of how the Coachella Valley will proceed with improvement of its status from serious non -attainment to attainment in accordance with PM10 National Ambient Air Quality Standard. Climate La Quinta is located in a subtropical desert characterized by hot dry summers and cool dry winters. The City's climate is a direct result of the local geography and topography of the region. La Quinta is located in the low-lying Coachella Valley on the eastern side of the San Jacinto and San Bernardino Mountains. These mountains form a barrier between the coastal region to the west, which is more moist, and the dry desert regions to the east and southeast. The mountains create a rain shadow effect on the Coachella Valley and reduce the amount of precipitation the Valley receives from winter storms that originate over the Pacific Ocean. Although the region remains dry most days of the year, the Valley does experience periodic rainfall from strong winter storms and summer monsoon thunderstorms. The City of La Quinta experiences a dry subtropical desert climate. According to the Western Regional Climate Center, which measures average temperature and rainfall at the nearby Indio Fire Station, the average annual maximum temperature for the local area is 88.9° degrees, and average annual minimum temperature is 58.0° degrees. The region is characterized by summers with temperatures reaching well over 100° degrees during the day and staying above 70° degrees at night. July is the warmest month in La Quinta, with average maximum temperatures reaching 107° degrees. January is the coolest month, with average maximum temperatures reaching 70.6° degrees. The coolest average minimum temperature also occurs in January, and reaches 39.1° degrees. The surrounding mountain temperatures are cooler than those on the valley floor, and typically experience a 5° degree Fahrenheit drop per 1,000 -foot increase in elevation. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-3 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING La Quinta experiences periodic rainfall events primarily during the winter and summer seasons. The average annual rainfall is 3.31 inches per year. During the winter months, La Quinta receives an average of 2.01 inches of rainfall, with January typically being the wettest month. Winter rains are a result of low-pressure systems dropping south from the Gulf of Alaska and into Southern California. During EI Nino years, the region can experience extended days of strong winter storms. Summer rainfall in the Valley occurs as a result of the monsoon season, which extends from July through September when moist southeasterly winds draw moisture into the region from the Gulf of California and Mexico. La Quinta averages 0.70 inches of rainfall during the summer, with September averaging the most summer precipitation of 0.30 inches. Summer monsoon storms tend to be localized thunderstorm events that can drop heavy rainfall over short periods of time. 4.4 Biological Resources La Quinta is located within the Colorado Desert Sub -unit of the Sonoran Desert. The desert climate limits the types of vegetation that can be supported, and native vegetation is typically sparse. In higher elevations conditions are less extreme, with milder temperatures and higher annual rainfalls, which support a wider variety of plant and animal life. Within the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan area, naturally occurring habitat has largely disappeared as a result of urban development. Vegetation in the City primarily takes the form of non-native landscape materials. However, native habitat is present on the slopes of the Santa Rosa Mountains adjacent to the project area. In these areas, development potential has been limited by topography and restrictions on land use applied by local jurisdictions, including the City and County, through the application of Open Space land use designations, the City's Hillside Overlay zoning district, as well as through the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP). The La Quinta Village is within the boundaries of the CVMSHCP, a regional planning effort that addresses the conservation of 27 species and 24 vegetation communities on more than 1.2 million acres in the Coachella Valley. The CVMSHCP has identified conservation areas throughout the Coachella Valley. In La Quinta, these are limited to lands in the Santa Rosa Mountains and its foothills, and are designated as Natural Open Space. Development on lands outside conservation areas is subject to payment of mitigation fees through the CVMSHCP. The CVMSHCP is further discussed in Section 5.3, Biological Resources. Native vegetation in the City is most common within foothills, drainages and streams within and near to the mountains. The most common native plant community in the City and Sphere is Sonoran Creosote Bush Scrub, dominated by Creosote Bush, Burrobush, Brittlebush and similar common species. Other native plant communities include Sonoran Mixed Woody and Succulent Scrub, and Desert Dry Wash Woodland. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-4 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING In the Village vacant lots are generally sparsely vegetated by invasive species (weeds) with an occasional native shrub. Most of these lots have been previously graded or otherwise disturbed by human activities. Common Wildlife Species There are a variety of common wildlife species in the City, which are supported by disturbed sand fields, saltbush scrub, agricultural and urban landscaping. Common species also occur in habitats on the southern and eastern edges of the City and Sphere, which have been less disturbed. The La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area is already highly disturbed, and thus does not provide habitat for most wildlife species. Common insect species in the General Plan Planning Area include Harvester Ants, Creosote Bush Grasshopper and Black Widow Spider. Common amphibians include California Toad and Pacific Tree Frog. Common reptiles include Zebra -tailed Lizard, Desert Horned Lizard, California Kingsnake and Colorado Desert Sidewinder. A variety of birds are found in La Quinta. These include the House Finch and House Sparrow, Abert's Towhee, Mourning Dive and Red-tailed Hawk. Common mammals include bats, the Black -tailed Jackrabbit, Pocket Mouse and California Ground Squirrel. However, because the project area is an urban environment most of these species would not be expected to occur. Sensitive Species Special status species are those that are considered threatened or endangered under the California or federal Endangered Species Act. Several special status species are known to occur in the City, most notably the Coachella Valley Fringe -Toed Lizard, Burrowing Owl, and Peninsular Bighorn Sheep. In addition to these species, habitat has been modeled for Coachella Valley Milkvetch, Desert Tortoise and Palm Springs Pocket Mouse, although these species have not been observed in the City. The project area does not include any mapped habitat for sensitive species. A complete discussion of sensitive species that could occur in the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area is included in Section 5.3, Biological Resources. 4.5 Cultural Resources Cultural Resources within the larger La Quinta General Plan Planning Area include paleontological remnants, artifacts from prehistoric cultures and more recent cultures, and culturally important buildings and structures. During the late Miocene and early Pliocene era, or approximately 5 million years ago, the Salton Trough was an extension of the Gulf of California. Fossils from this time period have been found in sediment in the northern portion of the Coachella Valley, including the Painted Hills, Garnet Hill, and La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-5 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING two places in the Indio Hills. In more recent time, repeated inundation of ancient Lake Cahuilla has resulted in the identification of fossils of snails and mollusks in the City. Early human settlement occurred throughout California approximately 8,000 to 12,000 years ago, during the beginning of the Holocene period. Native Americans occupied lands throughout the Coachella Valley during these ancient times. Historical records show that early Native American peoples in the Coachella Valley were from the Takic speaking Cahuilla tribe. Among this tribe were separate groups including the Pass Cahuilla, who occupied the modern day San Gorgonio Pass and Palm Springs area, the Mountain Cahuilla, who occupied the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains, and the Desert Cahuilla, who occupied the eastern Coachella Valley, which includes modern day La Quinta. The first noted European explorations in the Coachella Valley occurred in 1823-1825 when Spanish explorers Jose Romero, Jose Maria Estudillo and Romualdo Pacheco led expeditions to find a route to current day Yuma, Arizona. These explorers traveled through the Coachella Valley on what was known as the Cocomaricopa Trail, which was an ancient Indian trading route. By the 1860's, other European explorers, including William David Bradshaw, began traveling along the Cocomaricopa Trail and renamed it the Bradshaw Trail. Throughout the late 1800's, the Bradshaw Trail was a commonly utilized route, until the completion of the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1876. By the 1870's non-native settlements began to occur across the Coachella Valley, as new federal laws, including the Homestead Act and Desert Land Act, opened lands for new settlers. The discovery of underground water sources began to increase farming activities throughout the Valley in the early 20th century. By 1910, the date palm industry began to flourish in the region. Tourism reached La Quinta and the Coachella Valley in the 1920's, as the rich and famous of Hollywood began coming to the Valley to enjoy the beautiful scenery and climate. The La Quinta Resort was developed in 1926 and became a focus of the local economy. The entire Coachella Valley began to boom after World War II, as more residents and visitors came to the area in pursuit of desert living and to enjoy newly developed golf facilities. Today, La Quinta continues to experience new growth and development based on this tradition. The La Quinta Village Build -out Plan will facilitate future growth in the project area and new development projects may impact existing historical buildings within the Village. New development has the potential to impact buried cultural resources that may become unearthed due to grading activities. Section 5.4, Cultural Resources, addresses the potential impacts that may be associated with cultural resources within the La Quinta Village. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-6 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING 4.6 Geology Soils in the City are generally Holocene -age soils, comprised of alluvial, or waterborne sand and gravel, lacustrine (lake) sediments, and Aeolian (windborne) sandy soils in the valley portion of La Quinta. Older, harder, crystalline rock that occurs in the mountains weathers and forms boulders or further erodes. The latter creates fine particles that are carried along canyons and drainages downslope, and are deposited as alluvial fans at the base of mountain slopes. La Quinta, like most of the eastern Coachella Valley, was inundated by ancient Lake Cahuilla as recently as 400 years ago. Lacustrine deposits may be up to 300 feet thick, and may form clay soils in the valley areas where these soils alternate in layers with alluvial fan sediments and rock debris from the adjacent mountains. There are eleven primary soil series that have been mapped as occurring in the General Plan Planning Area. Five of the eleven soils occur in the La Quinta Village project area; and are all formed in alluvium: Coachella fine sand, 0 to 2 percent slopes (CpA), Gilman fine sandy loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes (GbA), Indio fine sandy loam (Ip), Indio very fine sandy loam (Is), and Myoma fine sand, 0 to 5 percent slopes (MaB). Much of the valley, including the La Quinta Village area, is subject to high winds, which lift soils from alluvial fans along the base of mountain slopes and canyons and other areas where loose, sandy soils occur. These sediments are carried along the central axis of the valley, generally from the northwest to southeast, creating a condition known as "blowsand". Because the Village Build -out Plan project area is mostly developed with urban uses, blowsand is less of an issue. However, because blowsand is a regional issue it is further discussed in Section 5.5, Soils/Geology, and in Section 5.2, Air Quality. Major Faults Affecting The Build -out Plan Area Earthquakes can result in impacts ranging from significant property damage to the loss of public services and facilities and the loss of life. The most severe impacts in the La Quinta area would be expected to result from strong ground shaking associated with earthquakes. Earthquakes and associated groundshaking can also generate other impacts, such as landslides, damage or destruction to structures, liquefaction, and settlement. Fires, hazardous materials releases, disruption of essential facilities and services such as water, sewer, gas, electric, drainage, and transportation can also occur. Flooding may happen when dam or water tanks fail as a result of ground shaking. The most significant faults with potential to affect the City and the project area are listed here. • San Andreas Fault Zone: The San Andreas fault passes approximately 7.5 miles northeast of the Village Build -out Plan project area. The 2007 Working Group on California Earthquake Probabilities (WGCEP) estimated that the southern San Andreas fault has a 59 percent La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-7 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING probability of causing an earthquake of at least magnitude 6.7 (Richter scale) in the next 30 years. • San Jacinto Fault Zone: The San Jacinto fault zone is located approximately 16 miles south of the La Quinta Village. WGCEP estimates there is an average 31 percent probability of all the segments of the San Jacinto fault rupturing between 1994 and 2024. • Burnt Mountain Fault: this fault is approximately 13 miles long and is approximately 15 miles north of the City at its closest point. Geologic mapping indicates It is considered capable of producing a magnitude 6.0 to 6.5 earthquake. • Eureka Peak Fault: The Eureka Peak Fault is approximately 12.5 to 15 miles long and is a right - lateral strike -slip fault. The Eureka Peak fault is considered capable of generating earthquakes of between Mw 5.5 and 6.8. • Pinto Mountain Fault: This fault occurs north-northwest of the City at the boundary of the north side of the Little San Bernardino Mountains near the town of Yucca Valley. Seismically Induced Geotechnical Hazards • Seismically Induced Ground Shaking: Seismically induced ground shaking is the most potentially significant geotechnical hazard to the Village Build -out Plan project area, due to the active faults in close proximity to the City. • Liquefaction: Liquefaction occurs when ground shaking of relatively long duration) causes soil to take on the qualities of a liquid or a semi ---viscous substance. The Village Build -out Plan project area contains areas of loose, unconsolidated soils, which can be susceptible to seismically- induced liquefaction. • Ground Failure from Compressible Soils: Unconsolidated soils may compress underthe weight of fill embankments and structures. These soils often include recently deposited alluvium, which occurs in the Village Build -out Plan project area. • Ground Failure from Collapsible Soils: Recently accumulated soils in arid or semi -arid environments may be subject to soil collapse, or hydroconsolidation. If partly supported by clay or silt, they become rearranged and lose cohesion when inundated. The Build -out Plan project area is mostly consists of fine sandy soils that are not likely to collapse. Subsidence: Ground subsidence occurs when the ground surface gradually sinks or settles, with no horizontal movement. When groundwater extraction surpasses supplies, a condition known as overdraft, a loss of aquifer storage capacity can occur and create subsidence. This condition exists throughout the Coachella Valley. The Village Build -out Plan is within the area being monitored for subsidence by USGS, but it is southwest of the La Quinta subsidence area that has experienced substantial subsidence in recent years. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-8 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING • Wind Erosion: Much of the Coachella Valley, including the project area, is susceptible to wind and wind-blown sand hazards. A Variety of health problems are associated with wind and blowing sand, such as skin disorders, allergies and respiratory irritation, and eye infection. Topography The Coachella Valley and the City of La Quinta are located in a region that is subject to complex and dynamic geologic forces that have, and continue to shape its dramatically varied topography. The area is situated at the margin of the Colorado Desert and Peninsular Range physiographic provinces. Each province comprises a distinct geologic and climatic region that has resulted in diverse and unique landscapes. The Colorado Desert province, which encompasses the valley floor portion of the City, is part of a low-lying basin extending from the Banning Pass to the border with Mexico. To the southwest, the Santa Rosa Mountains are within the Peninsular Ranges province. Development opportunities and constraints are dictated by the area's topography, with development generally limited to the valley floor. Elevations in the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area range from approximately 39 feet above mean sea level at the eastern boundary, to approximately 57 feet above mean sea level at the western boundary. 4.7 Global Climate Change/Greenhouse Gases Constituent gases of the Earth's atmosphere, called atmospheric greenhouse gases (GHG), play a critical role in the Earth's radiant heat levels by trapping infrared radiation emitted from the Earth's surface, which otherwise would have escaped to space. Prominent greenhouse gases contributing to this process include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), ozone, water vapor, nitrous oxide (N20), and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). This phenomenon, known as the Greenhouse Effect, is responsible for maintaining a habitable climate. Anthropogenic (caused or produced by humans) emissions of these greenhouse gases in excess of natural ambient concentrations are responsible for the enhancement of the Greenhouse Effect and have led to a trend of unnatural warming of the Earth's natural climate, known as global warming or climate change. Emissions of gases that induce global warming are attributable to human activities associated with industrial/manufacturing, agriculture, utilities, transportation, and residential land uses. Transportation is responsible for 41 percent of the State's greenhouse gas emissions, followed by electricity generation. Emissions of CO2 and nitrogen oxides (NOX) are byproducts of fossil fuel combustion. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, results from off -gassing associated with agricultural practices and landfills. State legislation, including the Global Warming Solutions Act (AB32), calls for a reduction in greenhouse gases to 1990 levels by 2020, representing a 30 percent reduction State wide. As part of its local implementation of AB32, La Quinta has developed a Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan, La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-9 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING with the intent to reduce CO2e emissions in compliance with State mandates. The Plan includes a comprehensive inventory of greenhouse gas emissions generated Citywide, including those generated by local government activities. Future emissions of greenhouse gases are projected, reduction targets set, and policies and programs are proposed to provide the City with tools to meet State requirements. 4.8 Hazards and Hazardous Materials The City of La Quinta is predominantly a residential community with scattered commercial centers and limited quasi -industrial areas. There are no heavy industrial facilities in the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area which could generate large quantities of hazardous waste; however, smaller -scale hazardous/toxic material generators exist throughout the City. These include dry cleaning businesses, auto repair shops, gas stations, medical facilities, and pest control companies, which are mainly situated along the Highway 111 corridor. Additionally, many of the large agricultural production areas to the east, and golf courses found throughout the City, use and store pesticides and fertilizers that can be harmful to human health. According to the Department of Toxic Substances Control, there are no hazardous waste sites in La Quinta listed under Government Code 65962.5. The closest site listed is the Forest -Gardner site, which is a fertilizer and pesticide manufacturing plant located in the City of Coachella. There are also numerous transportation corridors running throughout the City and surrounding area, including Highway 111, Interstate 10, State Highways 86, and the Southern Pacific Railroad. The La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area is not located close to any of these corridors. The closest corridor is Highway 111, running east -to -west approximately 2.5 miles north of the Build -out Plan project area. These routes are used for transporting hazardous materials. The transporting of hazardous materials along these corridors presents risks associated with the accidental release, spill, or exposure of hazardous materials on existing and future populations. The City of La Quinta adopted the Multi -Hazard Functional Plan in 1996 that addresses the planned response to natural and man-made emergencies, including the release or spill of hazardous materials. Section 5.6, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, will further discuss the impacts and precautions associated with hazardous materials. 4.9 Hydrology and Water Quality Although the climate in the Coachella Valley is generally characterized by mild winters and hot, dry summers, seasonal storms can produce significant amounts of precipitation within short periods of time. Winter storms are responsible for much of the area's annual rainfall, and usually occur between November and April. However, the region and surrounding mountains may also experience localized La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-10 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING thunderstorms at other times, especially during the summer monsoon season. Rapid snowmelt from the mountains may also result in flooding downslope of the Santa Rosa Mountains in the City of La Quinta. The City is subject to flash flooding along natural or man-made channels and sheet flooding across the valley floor. Although of short duration, flash floods result in high peak water volumes and velocities, which are frequently intensified by features of the local natural and built environment. Runoff flows frequently carry considerable debris such as mud, sand and rock fragments, which may clog natural or built channels and restrict flow. When channels are impeded by debris or structures, or when flows exceed channel capacity, sheet flow occurs, with water overflowing channel banks. Increased development also diminishes the area available for natural infiltration, replacing permeable soils with buildings, sidewalks, parking lots, and roadways. Based on mapping prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the entire Village Build -out Plan project area is outside the 100 year flood zone, but within the 500 -year flood zone. In perspective, the nearest 100 -year flood zone is the existing Oleander Reservoir at approximately 200 feet northwest of Eisenhower Drive and Calle Tampico. Responsibility for analysis and design of regional flood control structures lies with Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (RCFC&WCD). The Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) manages regional facilities, which collect runoff from areas outside the City, including the mountains. CVWD has broad responsibility for planning, maintenance and construction of regional facilities' improvements. Regional facilities within the City include the Coachella Valley Stormwater Channel (Whitewater River), the La Quinta Evacuation Channel, the Bear Creek System, the East La Quinta Channel and Lake Cahuilla. Maintenance of local facilities, which collect runoff from local streets and properties to regional channels and basins, is the responsibility of the City of La Quinta. The City's Master Drainage Plan, updated in 2009, describes local facilities, which include storm drains, culverts and catch basins within private development and local streets. Issues related to flooding and hydrology, including a more detailed description of regional and local flood control facilities, are discussed in Section 5.8, Hydrology and Water Quality. Domestic Water Resources CVWD provides domestic and irrigation water to the City and its Sphere. CVWD uses wells to extract groundwater, which naturally recharge from runoff from the mountains, as well as from CVWD groundwater recharge ponds located in the western Valley and south of the City in Martinez Canyon. The City and CVWD have implemented a number of conservation programs in recent years which have reduced consumption of domestic water. The City has also implemented water conservation La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-11 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING measures in landscaping maintenance. Chapter 8.13 of the Municipal Code, Water Efficient Landscaping, provides detailed requirements for water conservation in landscaping of new and existing projects. In addition, Building Code requirements provide for the use of water -efficient fixtures in new homes or businesses, or those which are undergoing major remodeling. These requirements extend to water features, fountains and lakes within projects, which can be a significant source of water loss, particularly due to the evaporation which occurs in the City's desert environment. Whitewater River Sub -basin The Coachella Valley is underlain by a substantial subsurface groundwater basin, or aquifer, in which groundwater has accumulated over millions of years, primarily from runoff from surrounding mountains. The aquifer is naturally subdivided by fault barriers into sub -basins, which are further divided into subareas. Most of the Coachella Valley, including the City of La Quinta, is underlain by the Whitewater River Sub -basin. It extends from Palm Springs to the Salton Sea, and is subdivided into a number of subareas. Water in the aquifer flows from the northwest to the southeast. The Lower Thermal subarea occurs under the City, and provides it with its primary source of domestic water. The subarea's water supply occurs at depths of 300 to 600 feet below the surface, and may extend to a depth of 1,000 feet. The Upper and Lower Thermal subareas together are estimated to contain 19.4 million acre-feet of water (1 acre-foot is equal to 325,851 gallons). Continued growth in the City and the region has resulted in an increased demand for domestic water. As a result, CVWD extracts more water from the Lower Thermal subarea than is naturally recharged into it every year — a condition known as overdraft. In April 2016, CVWD released the 2016/2017 Engineer's Report on Water Supply and Replenishment Assessment. The report concluded that the total outflow for the East Whitewater River Sub -basin in 2015 was 172,200 acre-feet (af), including total groundwater production, subsurface drainage outflow, and evapotranspiration. In 2015, total inflow for the East Whitewater River Sub -basin was 199,100 af, including natural inflow, non -consumptive return and water replenished by CVWD at replenishment facilities. The annual balance is the total inflow less the total outflow for a gain of 26,900 of of water in storage in the sub -basin in 2015. Water Quality The Coachella Valley has generally good to excellent water quality, except where water tables in the Sub -basin are perched or semi -perched and groundwater contains high concentrations of dissolved solids. During seasonal rain events, storm water which travels over built surfaces, such as parking lots and building rooftops, has the potential to be contaminated by oils, solvents, and chemicals. The City implements the requirements of the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) to assure that storm waters are protected from pollutants. Groundwater quality may also be affected La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-12 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING by long-term discharge associated with septic systems. These impacts are not anticipated to impact the Village Build -Out Plan project area because all projects within the Build -out Plan project area will be required to connect to sewer facilities operated by CVWD. These issues are further discussed in Section 5.8, Hydrology and Water Quality. 4.10 Land Use and Planning La Quinta historically has been a resort community attracting visitors from all parts of the country. Recent growth, however, has focused on residential and retail development, providing both a permanent home for year-round residents, and a second home for seasonal residents. The City of La Quinta, and the Coachella Valley in general, are winter destinations for "snowbird" residents who move to the desert from northern regions to escape the cold. As a result, a large number of homes built throughout the City are considered second homes. The La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Area is located at the north end of the Cove area, at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains. The area is dominated by residential land use, including some of the oldest neighborhoods in the City, to the south of The Village area. The La Quinta Resort and Club is located northeast of The Village area and their Golf Courses abut the Build -out Plan boundaries in the northeast. Areas to the west and southwest are Medium/High Density Residential land use, making up the north end of The Cove. Medium/High Density Residential is also located to the north of the Village area, east of the La Quinta Resort. Low Density Residential is widespread to the east and southeast of the Build -out Plan area. Tradition Golf Club is designated Open Space - Recreation land use to the south, among low density residential development. The La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area currently comprises an area that includes multiple land use designations. Commercial land use is located in the northeastern segment of the plan area and contains existing commercial development, although some of the buildings are vacant. Community Facilities are located throughout The Village. Open space in The Village is an existing park. The majority of the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan area is designated Village Commercial. This designation supports mixed use development, creating a walkable neighborhood of medium -to -high density housing among commercial properties. Section 5.9, Land Use and Planning discusses the environmental impacts associated with the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan. 4.11 Noise Noise is measured using the decibel (dB) as a unit of measurement, which describes the amplitude or strength of sound. Most common sounds range from 40 dB to 100 dB. A normal conversation, for La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-13 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING example, usually measures around 60 dB at a distance of 3 -feet. A jet engine, on the other hand, can measure up to 110 dB, which is considered very loud and discomforting. Within the built environment, noise is created from various sources, including traffic, construction equipment, machinery, and people. The combination of sounds created by these various sources is called the ambient noise level. Most municipalities analyze ambient noise levels to accurately measure the amount of noise affecting sensitive receptors, such as schools, residential units, or hospitals. Ambient noise is measured using Community Noise Equivalency Level (CNEL) units, which is a weighted average of the intensity of sounds over a 24-hour period. CNEL accounts for time of day and adds additional decibels during sensitive periods, such as between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. The CNEL weighted decibel unit is called dBA. The City of La Quinta has determined that a CNEL of less than 65 dBA of exterior noise is acceptable for sensitive receptors. The City of La Quinta currently has a Noise Ordinance and Noise Element that identifies excessive sound levels, which are detrimental to the public health, welfare and safety of residents. The Noise Ordinance and Noise Element establish exterior noise standards for various land uses, and appropriate time periods for construction and other types of noise. Future development in the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan area will continue to increase ambient noise levels. Section 5.10, Noise, addresses the existing and build out noise environment, and potential noise impacts associated with the implementation of the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan. 4.12 Population and Housing The California Department of Finance 2015 E-5 Report accounted for a total of 24,150 dwelling units within the City of La Quinta, and an estimated population of 39,694. The total number of occupied dwelling units within the City was identified as 15,250. Thus, nearly 37 percent of all housing units within La Quinta were estimated to be unoccupied in 2015. The relatively high vacancy rate is largely due to seasonal, recreational, or occasional use homes, which account for 27.5 percent of all housing units. Although seasonal, recreational, and occasional residents generate a demand for services and utilize local infrastructure and utilities, they are not accounted for in La Quinta's permanent population. The 2015 population size of 39,294 and the 15,250 occupied dwelling units yield an average household size of 2.6. In order to estimate the full occupancy population for the City of La Quinta, the per -household population size of 2.6 was multiplied by the existing number of dwelling units (24,150). Thus, the full occupancy population size of La Quinta in 2015 was approximately 62,790 people. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-14 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Potential new development in the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan includes multi -family residential units. The potential impacts on Population and Housing are discussed in Section 5.11. 4.13 Public Services and Utilities The City of La Quinta is served by a range of public service and facilities, such as local and regional governmental services, special districts, public utilities, and associated services and facilities. The following identifies the various public services and utilities that are available within the City of La Quinta. Fire Protection Fire protection services within the City of La Quinta are provided by the Riverside County Fire Department through a contractual agreement with the City. There are a total of seven stations available to respond to calls within the General Plan Planning Area, all staffed by full-time, paid firefighters as well as volunteers. Current minimum staffing is 3 firefighters per front -roll fire engine. Of these three firefighters, 1 will be a "Company Officer" level supervisor. Additionally, at least one of the three will be Paramedic Licensed. There are three City -owned stations in the City of La Quinta. Four additional stations within the County Fire Department system are available for emergency response: one in Indian Wells, two in Indio, and a fourth at the Jacqueline Cochran Airport, east of the City. The County dispatches calls through its centralized Emergency Command Center, which determines the responding station(s) based on location and need. In 2010, stations averaged a response time of 3.9 minutes throughout the City. The County also uses its dispatch system to provide ambulance services through its service provider, American Medical Response (AMR). The nearest fire station to the Village is No. 32 located at 78-111 Avenue 52 at the southwest corner of Avenue 52 and Desert Club Drive. Police Protection The City contracts annually with the Riverside County Sheriff's Department for police services, as it has since its incorporation in 1982. Within City limits, the Department operates as the La Quinta Police Department, and utilizes dedicated facilities, equipment and personnel. The Sheriff's Department provides police protection throughout the City on a 24-hour basis. There are two Police Department offices in the City: the Civic Center Community Policing Office located at 78-495 Calle Tampico and the La Quinta Police Station, which is operated by the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, located at 86-625 Airport Boulevard. The City's 2015 contract with the Sheriff's Department provides for the equivalent of 51 sworn officers and 5 community service officers. Police Protection is further described in Section 5.14, Public Services. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-15 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Solid Waste Management Burrtec Waste and Recycling Services, LLC (Burrtec), provides solid waste disposal through a franchise agreement with the City. Solid waste collected in La Quinta is transported to the Edom Hill Transfer Station to the west in the City of Cathedral City or to the Coachella Valley Transfer Station located at the closed Coachella Landfill north of the 1-10 freeway. From either of these facilities waste can be transported to one of three regional landfills in Riverside County: Lamb Canyon, Badlands or EI Sobrante, each of which has remaining long-term capacity. Burrtec also has the ability to transfer solid waste to the newly expanded Salton City Landfill in Imperial County. Burrtec also provides green waste recycling with this material going to the Coachella Valley Compost Facility. The City is currently required to implement new and maintain ongoing waste and recycling programs and recycle at least 50 percent of its solid waste stream, and is meeting that goal. Special programs, including the collection and disposal of household hazardous waste, construction and demolition materials, and medical "sharps" (syringes and needles), as well as commercial recycling, are also administered by Burrtec. Domestic Water CVWD is the domestic and irrigation water provider in the City. It sources most of its water supplies from groundwater, which is extracted through a system of wells located throughout the region, including La Quinta. CVWD also imports water to recharge the aquifer, using recharge basins located near Palm Springs and south and east of the City, in Martinez Canyon. CVWD's water distribution system is generally located in public rights of way under existing streets. There are 10 existing or planned CVWD water storage tanks in the City and its Sphere. California Water Code requires that CVWD prepare and periodically update an Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) to analyze its current and future water supply. The UWMP is intended to ensure that sufficient supplies are available to serve land uses within its management area. The current UWMP was updated by CVWD in 2010. CVWD anticipates approval of the 2015 UWMP in July 2016. Wastewater Services In addition to domestic water services, CVWD provides the City with wastewater collection and treatment facilities. Sewer collection facilities are available in most areas of the City and Sphere of Influence, although septic systems are still utilized in some areas, primarily in the Sphere. CVWD has a system of wastewater lines throughout local streets, as well as force mains within major roadways. There are two CVWD wastewater treatment plants serving the City. Water Reclamation Plant 7 (WRP- 7), serves the portion of the City north of Miles Avenue. Lands in the City and Sphere located south of Miles Avenue are served by the Mid -Valley Water Reclamation Plant. WRP-7 has the added La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-16 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING capability to process wastewater to tertiary levels (suitable for irrigation), but there is no tertiary treatment available at the Mid -Valley plant. Schools The La Quinta Village area is served by the Desert Sands Unified School Districts (DSUSD) which provides public education for students in grades Kindergarten through 12. There are seven DSUSD schools in La Quinta, including three elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school and one alternative school. There are two schools adjacent to the Built -out Plan project area: Benjamin Franklin Elementary School and John Adams Elementary School. John Adams Elementary School closed at the end of the 2015/2016 school year due to declining enrollment, so Benjamin Franklin Elementary School is primary elementary school serving the area. In addition, the District's administrative offices are located in the City, on Dune Palms Road, south of Highway 111. DSUSD also provides early childhood education, after school programs, and special education services. It further serves adult GED, English as a second language, and citizenship students. There are three regional higher education institutions located in the nearby City of Palm Desert. These include the College of the Desert, a community college with associates degree and adult education programs; California State University, San Bernardino and the University of California, Riverside, each of which offers undergraduate and Master's degree programs. Libraries The La Quinta Library is located at 78-275 Calle Tampico. The City owns the library facility, which is operated by Riverside County. The Library contains 89,060 volumes within a 20,000 square foot space. Although the City has not established a standard for library facilities, the County Library system aims for an un -adopted standard of two volumes per capita. Based on this standard, existing library facilities are sufficient to serve the current population. Medical Facilities In addition to a variety of small clinics and local physician's offices throughout the Coachella Valley, there are three major regional health care facilities, all available to serve the Planning Area. These are briefly described below: John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital The John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital in the City of Indio is a 158 -bed facility. It has a 24-hour emergency room, maternity care and pediatric services, an ambulatory surgery center, and an outpatient rehabilitation center. It also offers imaging services, orthopedic and joint replacement services, cardiovascular services, and a sports medicine program. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-17 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Eisenhower Medical Center The Eisenhower Medical Center (EMC) in Rancho Mirage includes a 313 -bed hospital on its 130 -acre campus. EMC also houses an emergency room, as well as the Annenberg Center for Health Sciences, the Barbara Sinatra Children's Center, and the Betty Ford Center. EMC recently completed the 92,000 square foot Eisenhower George and Julia Argyros Health Center in La Quinta, which includes an outpatient facility, express clinic, a pharmacy, laboratory, primary care physicians' offices, an executive wellness program, and an imaging center. Desert Regional Medical Center The Desert Regional Medical Center (DRMC) in Palm Springs is located approximately 20 miles west of La Quinta. DRMC houses 367 beds, providing general medical facilities, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services and the Level II Richards Emergency Trauma Center staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week with at least one physician. DRMC is the only designated Trauma Center in the Coachella Valley. Municipal Facilities The City provides municipal services and programs to the community through a variety of municipal facilities. These include City Hall, the Wellness Center, the La Quinta Library and the La Quinta Museum. With the exception of the Museum, these facilities are clustered within the City Civic Center complex, located at 78-495 Calle Tampico. The City also owns a municipal golf course and several parks facilities, which are further described in Section 5.13, Recreation. Utilities Telephone and Telecommunications Frontier Communications serves as the primary telephone (land line) provider in the City. Given improvements in technology and decreased regulation in telephone service, the public now has access to a variety of choices, including cable -based and cellular services. New technologies are expected to continue to develop that will ensure the adequate provision of telephone and telecommunications to residences, businesses and other users in the City. Electricity The Imperial Irrigation District (IID) provides electric power to the City of La Quinta. IID delivers power through generation as well as through contractual agreements with other providers. It has substations throughout the City, from which it steps down voltage for distribution to its customers. Residential uses account for the highest demand for electric power in the City. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-18 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Natural Gas The Gas Company provides natural gas where facilities are available within the City of La Quinta. There are major supply lines in Washington Street and Highway 111, but service is limited in areas south of Airport Boulevard and east of Monroe Street, as well as parts of the Cove community. Residents in these areas rely on propane gas purchased from private firms. Potential impacts to public services and utilities from implementation of the proposed Village Build- out Plan are analyzed in Section 5.17, Utilities and Infrastructure. 4.14 Recreation La Quinta's designated recreational open space totals approximately 5,259 acres. The City of La Quinta currently operates 11 city parks, the Civic Center Campus, and three nature preserve areas. All city parks, with the exception of the Civic Center Campus, provide a children's playground facility. La Quinta's three nature preserves are also available for public recreation, as they all contain trails for hiking and bicycling. There are also a number of public pocket parks located within existing subdivisions. Two regional parks located within the City of La Quinta are managed by other agencies. The 6.5 acre La Quinta Community Park, located in the Village, is managed by the Desert Recreational District, and the 845 acre Lake Cahuilla Regional Park, located in the southwestern portion of the City, is managed by the Riverside County Parks Department. Lake Cahuilla Regional Park charges a user fee for day visitors, fishing, and overnight camping. Recreational opportunities at Lake Cahuilla include fishing, equestrian trails, camping, horse camps, and hiking. The City of La Quinta also works in conjunction with the Desert Sands Unified School District to share the use of recreational facilities on school grounds. Two examples of this are the Sports Complex at the La Quinta Middle School and the soccer fields located at Colonel Mitchell Paige Middle School. La Quinta is also home to one public and 22 privately owned and operated golf courses, seven of which are open and available for public use. The City's SilverRock Golf Course consists of 18 holes over 525 acres of land. The La Quinta Wellness Center is owned and operated by the City, created through renovation and expansion of the La Quinta Senior Center. The new Wellness Center opened on January 12, 2015. The 16,500 square foot facility includes multi-purpose rooms, a kitchen, classrooms, fitness facilities, locker rooms, putting greens, and other amenities. Additionally, the City has also coordinated with Family YMCA of the Desert to maintain the swimming pool at Fritz Burns Park, located near Avenue 52 and Avenida Bermudas. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-19 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING The City has developed Class I, II, and III facilities for cyclists and pedestrian use. Existing bike routes link all portions of the city, including from the southern boundary to the northern city limits. Bear Creek Path, located in the western portion of the Cove provides a popular paved walking trail along Bear Creek. In addition, there are numerous unpaved trails that provide access to open space areas. The Bear Creek Canyon Trail in the southern portion of the Cove provides hikers with approximately 4.5 miles of trail into the Santa Rosa Wilderness Area. Other trails in the region include the Boo Hoff Trail and the Cove to Lake Trail, which links Lake Cahuilla Park with the Cove. As growth and development continues to occur within the City, additional park and recreation facilities will be needed. Section 5.13, Recreation, further discusses the impacts that growth will have on recreation resources. 4.15 Transportation/Traffic The Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) prepared for the Village Build -out Plan tiered from the General Plan TIA to provide a project specific analysis that included an assessment of existing conditions. In discussion with the City's traffic engineer, the study area for the project consists the following roadways: North -south roadways that provide local circulation for the project area are: • Eisenhower Drive, • Avenida Bermudas • Desert Club Drive • Washington Street • Jefferson Street East -west roadways that provide local circulation for the project area are: • Avenue 50 • Calle Tampico • Avenue 52 Eisenhower Drive: This north -south four lane divided roadway is classified as a Primary Arterial (108 foot right-of-way) in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries approximately 9,500 to 15,500 vehicles per day in the study area. Avenida Bermudas: This north -south two lane to four lane divided roadway is classified as a Secondary Arterial (102 foot right-of-way) in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries approximately 3,400 vehicles per day in the study area. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-20 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Desert Club Drive: This north -south two lane undivided roadway is not classified in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries approximately 1,900 vehicles per day in the study area. Washington Street: This north -south six lane divided roadway is classified as a Major Arterial (128 foot right-of-way) in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries approximately 12,500 to 23,100 vehicles per day in the study area. Jefferson Street: This north -south six lane divided roadway is classified as a Major Arterial (128 foot right-of-way) in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries approximately 19,500 vehicles per day in the study area. Avenue 50: This east -west three lane undivided to four lane divided roadway is classified as a Primary Arterial (108 foot right-of-way) in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries an average of 2,900 vehicles per day between Eisenhower Drive and Washington Street and an average of 10,700 vehicle trips per day between Washington Street and Jefferson Street. Calle Tampico: This east -west four lane divided roadway is classified as a Primary Arterial (108 foot right-of-way) in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries approximately 4,300 to 16,600 vehicles per day in the study area. Avenue 52: This east -west four lane divided roadway is classified as a Primary Arterial (108 foot right- of-way) in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries approximately 11,500 to 15,600 vehicles per day in the study area. All study area intersections currently operate at Level of Service A or B except for the intersection of Desert Club Drive (NS) at Calle Tampico (EW), and Jefferson Street (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) which both operate at Level of Service C. Level of Service is used to qualitatively describe the performance of a roadway facility, ranging from Level of Service A (free-flow conditions) to Level of Service F (extreme congestion and system failure). Level of Service C falls within the range of stable flow. The General Plan has established Level of Service D as an acceptable level of service. Therefore, all intersections and roadway segments currently operate within acceptable levels of service. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-21 August 2016 4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 4-22 August 2016 5 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS Chapter 5 Environmental Impact Analysis 5.0 Introduction The Draft EIR for the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan provides analysis of impacts for all environmental topics. Sections 5.1 through 5.14 discuss the environmental impacts that may result with approval and implementation of the proposed project. 5.0.1 Issues Addressed in the EIR The following environmental issues are addressed in this chapter: 5.1 Aesthetics 5.9 Land Use and Planning 5.2 Air Quality 5.10 Noise 5.3 Biological Resources 5.11 Population and Housing 5.4 Cultural and Paleontological Resources 5.12 Public Services 5.5 Geology and Soils 5.13 Recreation 5.6 Greenhouse Gas Emissions 5.14 Traffic and Circulation 5.7 Hazards and Hazardous Materials 5.15 Utilities and Service Systems 5.8 Hydrology and Water Quality Each environmental issue area in Sections 5.1 through 5.14 contains: 1. An introduction of the impact being analyzed with respect to the project, including thresholds of significance; 2. The environmental setting (Existing Conditions) as it relates to the specific issue, including necessary regulatory framework and analysis methodology governing the specific issue; 3. A list of Goals and Policies from the General Plan that apply to the project; 4. An evaluation of the project -specific impacts; 5. An evaluation of Cumulative Impacts; 6. Identification of mitigation measures; and 7. A determination of the level of significance after mitigation measures is implemented. Introduction This section includes a brief introduction of the environmental impact to be analyzed within the section as it pertains to the project and references sources used to develop the section. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5-1 August 2016 5 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS Environmental Setting This section contains a discussion of the existing conditions, services, and physical environment of the project site and vicinity. This section also includes any regulatory framework utilized during analysis and any methodology used during technical analysis where necessary. Applicable Goals and Policies This section lists the applicable City of La Quinta 2035 General Plan goals and/or policies that will be evaluated in the impact analysis section. Project Impact Analysis This section provides a discussion of the impacts of the proposed La Quinta Village Build -out Plan in qualitative and quantitative terms. A discussion of the thresholds of significance utilized to analyze the impacts is also included. Thresholds of Significance Determining the severity of project impacts is fundamental to achieving the objectives of CEQA Guidelines Section 15091, which requires that decision makers mitigate, as completely as is feasible, the significant impacts identified in the EIR. If the EIR identifies any significant unmitigated impacts, CEQA Guidelines Section 15093 requires decision makers approving a project to adopt a statement of overriding considerations that explains why the benefits of the project outweigh the adverse environmental consequences associated with implementation of the project. The level of significance for each impact examined in the EIR was determined by considering the predicted magnitude of the impact against applicable significance criteria. Thresholds were developed using criteria from the CEQA Guidelines and the Environmental Checklist; State, federal, and local regulatory guidance; local/regional plans and ordinances; accepted practices; consultation with recognized experts; and other professional opinions. The following adjectives are used specifically to define the degree of impact used in the Impact Analysis and Mitigation. An "adverse" impact is any negative result of the project, however small. As a disclosure document, the finding of an impact as "adverse" merely indicates that the project will cause an impact to occur compared to existing conditions, even though that impact may be less than significant. For example, the removal of a stand of healthy trees from a vacant site might be considered adverse (i.e., "negative") but it may not exceed a local threshold such as loss of native trees. Therefore, an impact may be adverse without being significant. A "significant" impact is considered a substantial negative effect if it exceeds a critical and accepted threshold for negative environmental effects. CEQA defines a significant effect on the environment La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5-2 August 2016 5 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS as "...a substantial or potentially substantial, adverse (i.e., negative) change in any of the physical conditions within the area by the project, including land, air, water, flora, fauna, ambient noise, and objects of historic or aesthetic significance... (CEQA Guidelines, Section 15383). As recommended in the CEQA Guidelines impacts are also identified as "potentially significant" prior to mitigation. A "cumulative" impact is a compilation of a project's impact when considered in concert with other approved projects, projects under consideration for entitlement, or recently completed projects, that when combined with the project being evaluated in the EIR could produce related or cumulative impacts (CEQA Guidelines Section 15130). Cumulative Impacts The discussion of cumulative impacts reflects the severity of the impacts and their likelihood of occurrence, focusing on the cumulative impact to which the identified cumulative projects contribute. Mitigation Measures In some cases, following the impact discussion, reference is made to State and federal regulations and agency policies that would fully or partially mitigate the impact. In addition, policies and programs from applicable local land use plans that partially or fully mitigate the impact may be cited. Project -specific mitigation measures, beyond those contained in other documents, are offset with a summary heading and described using the format presented below: AES -1 Project -specific mitigation is identified that would reduce the impact to the lowest degree feasible. The mitigation number links the particular mitigation to the impact with which it is associated (AES -1 in this example). A mitigation monitoring and reporting program will be developed, incorporating all mitigation measures presented within this EIR. All mitigation measures will be written with a means of monitoring or reporting on implementation and enforcement. Level of Significance After Mitigation This section identifiesthe resulting level of significance of the impact following mitigation. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5-3 August 2016 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5-4 August 2016 5.1 AESTHETICS 5.1 Aesthetics 5.1.1 Introduction The La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area is located in the eastern portion of the Coachella Valley in Central Riverside County, along the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains. The desert setting and surrounding mountains provides a picturesque backdrop and aesthetically pleasing environment for the community. This section describes the existing aesthetic qualities of the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area, discusses the potential impacts that may occur from implementation of the Build -out Plan and Zoning Code text amendment, and identifies mitigation measures to reduce any potentially significant impacts to visual and scenic resources, or light and glare impacts. Sources used in the evaluation of potential impacts to Aesthetics are included in Chapter 9, References. 5.1.2 Existing Conditions Environmental Setting The La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area is situated in the western portion of the City of La Quinta. The region is in an area known as the Salton Trough, which is a fault controlled basin caused by the complex system of faults crossing the region, including the San Andreas Fault to the north. The Salton Trough is an expansive basin that runs in a northwest to southeast direction, and includes varying topography and wildlife habitats. The valley is surrounded on the north and south by mountains that have been uplifted over time due to seismic activity. A foothill ridge extension of the Santa Rosa Mountains, known as the Coral Mountains, is the main topographic and scenic feature in the area. This ridge, which includes Eisenhower and Indio Peaks to the west of the La Quinta Village, runs along the western boundary of the City in a southerly to northerly direction just west of the La Quinta Village. As their name implies, the Coral Mountains look like giant coral reefs springing up from the valley floor. Other topographic features in the area include the main backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains, located directly south of the Village, and the Indio Hills, located across and along the northeastern edge of the Coachella Valley. The Santa Rosa Mountains and their foothills and peaks are part of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, and will remain as open space in perpetuity, thus affording residents and visitors with permanent scenic vistas. Scenic Conditions The La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area and immediate vicinity are comprised of multiple land uses, including commercial, residential, community facilities, recreational facilities, and vacant land. Development in La Quinta is generally built at lower densities, and buildings in the Village tend La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.1-1 August 2016 5.1 AESTHETICS to be low-rise (one- and two story structures). Views of local mountains and scenic vistas from points throughout the Village are already partially obstructed by existing buildings, walls, and mature landscaping. Within the Village, Calle Tampico is designated as an Image Corridor arterial because it affords unobstructed views of the Coral Mountains. Likewise, views looking south along Washington Street provide a relatively unobstructed view of the Coral Mountains. Views of the Little San Bernardino Mountains on the north side of the Valley are generally only available from Washington Street and to a lesser extent, from Eisenhower Drive; both view corridors are partially obstructed by existing mature palm trees and structures along the streets. Visual Character The existing visual character of the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area can be characterized as a small traditional City core, representative of the City's roots. This character is influenced by typical downtown land uses, including retail commercial uses, professional and commercial office uses, community facilities, parks, multi -family housing, and some single family residences. These land uses are built along landscaped streets with curb, gutter, and sidewalks. The Village contains a smaller community scale of commercial development, and does not contain large retail, big box retail centers as noticeably found along the City's Highway 111 corridor. Architectural Styles La Quinta architecture includes a mixture of building types built over various time periods, and with a variety of styles. The development time sequence ranges from structures built in the early twentieth century, and new master -planned communities built within the last decade. Architectural styles include those typical of Spanish Colonial, Mediterranean, Tuscan, and Modern styles. Spanish Colonial architecture is the most prevalent style used in the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area, and examples include the Old Town development, the La Quinta Museum, and the nearby La Quinta Resort and Spa. The City has an adopted set of design guidelines — The Village at La Quinta: Design Guidelines, 1998, that have been utilized to guide development in the Village, including the development of the Old Town La Quinta development at Calle Tampico between Desert Club Drive and Avenida Bermudas. Light and Glare Existing playing fields and recreational facilities within the La Quinta Village, such as La Quinta Community Park, produce light and glare from overhead field lights. Major streets also produce light and glare from street lamps, signalized intersections, and vehicle headlights. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.1-2 August 2016 5.1 AESTHETICS 5.1.3 Applicable Goals and Policies The La Quinta General Plan 2035, includes goals and policies that would apply to the development of new projects in the Village Build -out Plan project area. These are: GOAL LU -3 Safe and identifiable neighborhoods that provide a sense of place. Policy LU -3.3 Maintain residential development standards including setbacks, height, pad elevations and other design and performance standards that assure a high quality of development in the Zoning Ordinance. Program LU -3.3.a: Provide incentives in the Zoning Ordinance for creative and high quality development; projects that reduce the dependence on automobiles; projects that incorporate trails and paths for pedestrians and bicycles; and projects that incorporate transit and alternative transportation facilities into their designs. GOAL LU -6 A balanced and varied economic base which provides a broad range of goods and services to the City's residents and the region. Policy LU -6.2 Maintain commercial development standards in the Zoning Ordinance, including setbacks, height, pad elevations and other design and performance standards that assure a high quality of development. r;nai 111-7 Innovative land uses in the Village and on Highway 111. Policy LU -7.6 Review and amend, as necessary, the Village Design Guidelines to allow maximum flexibility for Mixed Use projects. The Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines (Design Guidelines), provide Goals and Guiding Principles for development in the Village. Goals related to Aesthetics and Scenic Resources are found in Section II.C. Site and Building Design. The intent of the Site and Building Design policies is to provide for architectural variation and detailing to break up the monotony of building elevations and incorporate design elements that draw in pedestrians and reinforce street activities. However, the Design Guidelines specifically limit building heights to two story, and the Zoning Code limits building heights in the Village Commercial District to 35 feet. The Design Guidelines also focus on Site Design and Activity Space and the intended pedestrian scale of the Village, where structures must be sited to create internal spaces, with pedestrian access La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.1-3 August 2016 5.1 AESTHETICS available from the street or off-street parking and entries into shops and offices must access directly to a pedestrian oriented street or other pedestrian access. Accessory provisions of the Design Guidelines encourage the provision of street furnishings including bicycle racks, trash receptacles, benches and drinking fountains that encourage pedestrian and cycling as a means to move through the Village. Signs must be ground mounted or building mounted with no pole signs allowed. Such signs include directional signs that promote way -finding. Finally, lighting and landscaping guidelines are part of the Design Guidelines and include requirements for lighting to be low level and limited primarily to landscape areas; and must be consistent with the City's Outdoor Light Control Ordinance. Building mounted lighting must be designed to highlight building entries, dramatize specific architectural features and accentuate light and shadow to articulate facades. Landscaping requirements focus on providing shade for pedestrians and in parking areas as well as providing screening of parking lots, utility boxes, servicing and waste enclosures and other unsightly areas. No comprehensive Village landscape plan has been developed; however, all new developments must comply with the City's Zoning Code, Chapter 8.13, Water Efficient Landscaping). 5.1.4 Project Impact Analysis The La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Zoning Code text amendment to remove the 35 -foot height restriction, will facilitate the development of vacant land and redevelopment of existing properties by providing greater flexibility in building design and density. The Build -out Plan quantifies the maximum allowable square footage by land use and by location (see Table 3-3 in Chapter 3, Project Description). While the Design Guidelines are proposed to be rescinded, the Build -out Plan calls for City staff to rely on the Zoning Code (as amended by this Plan), and Design Review on a project by project basis to guide building setbacks, parkway easements and pedestrian corridors to allow an increase in density and intensity of uses while still maintaining the Village as a livable, pedestrian friendly community. Where the Zone Text amendment will allow buildings to exceed 35 feet in height, it will supersede the height restriction in the rest of the City. The Zoning Code text amendment would allow building heights within the Plan area of up to 60 feet. The General Plan designations for the Village Build -out Plan project area include: Village Commercial The Village Commercial Designation applies specifically to the traditional Commercial core of the City, and allows specialty retail; such as boutiques and art galleries as well as restaurants, professional La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.1-4 August 2016 5.1 AESTHETICS offices and services, and hotels. Apartments, condominiums and live -work space is also appropriate in this designation. As established in General Plan 2035 Policy LU -7.1, mixed use development is allowed in this designation. Mixed use projects can include vertical or horizontal combinations of land uses that are integrated through pedestrian connections and common areas; or can include residential units added to existing commercial development at the discretion of the Architectural and Landscape Review Board and Planning Commission. The Village Commercial Land Use has the greatest potential for development/redevelopment in the Build -out Plan project area because approximately 127 acres of the land being considered for development/redevelopment is designated Village Commercial. Development/redevelopment has potential to increase commercial development by 747,787 square feet and residential development up to 1,230 dwelling units in the Village Commercial land use designation. Note: some of these dwelling units could be developed in CG, but the maximum combined number would not be greater than 1,230 du. General Commercial This land use designation applies to the majority of commercial land in the City but in the La Quinta Build -out Plan project area, only to the site at the northwest corner of Washington Street and Calle Tampico, now occupied by a commercial center. The full range of commercial uses can occur within this designation, ranging from supermarkets and drugstores in a neighborhood shopping center, to major national retailers in large buildings. General Commercial uses also include professional offices, service businesses, restaurants, hotels or motels, research and development and warehousing or similar low impact quasi -industrial projects. As established in General Plan 2035 Policy LU -7.1, mixed use development is also appropriate in this designation. The area designated as General Commercial is located north of Calle Tampico. It is currently developed with a shopping center and there are no current proposals to modify land uses at that site. The site consists of seven parcels, totaling 72,450 square feet. Redevelopment under the Build -out Plan has potential to increase commercial square footage by about 52,000 square feet in the General Commercial land use area. This site may also include residential as it is considered part of the dwelling unit count allowed north of Calle Tampico. When combined, Village Commercial and General Commercial properties north of Calle Tampico could accommodate up to 613 dwelling units and 346,000 sf of non-residential use. Recreational Open Space The Recreational Open Space designation applies to parks, recreation facilities (such as driving ranges, club houses and athletic facilities), and public and private golf courses. In the Village Build- out Plan project area, these uses are situated between Eisenhower Drive and Avenida Navarro, and no changes are proposed. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.1-5 August 2016 5.1 AESTHETICS Major Community Facilities The Major Community Facilities Land Use designation has been assigned to existing or planned municipal, educational or public facilities; such as City and Desert Sands Unified School District facilities and buildings, utility facilities and buildings, fire stations, public parking lots, and similar uses. The Village Build -out Plan does not assume any changes in existing conditions for properties designated Major Community Facilities or Recreational Open Space. Thresholds of Significance The criteria for establishing the significance of potential impacts on visual resources came from Appendix G of the State CEQA guidelines and apply to the proposed Village Build -out area. A significant impact would occur if the proposed project: a. Has a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista. b. Substantially damages scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway. c. Substantially degrades the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings. d. Creates a new source of substantial light or glare, which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area. a. Substantial Adverse Effect on Scenic Vistas For purposes of determining significance under CEQA, a scenic vista is defined as a viewpoint that provides expansive views of a highly valued landscape for the benefit of the general public. In addition, some scenic vistas are officially designated by public agencies, or informally designated by tourist guides. A substantial adverse effect to such a scenic vista is one that degrades the view from such a designated view spot. The Village Build -out Plan project area is located on relatively flat topography, and is developed with a number of urban uses including one- and two-story buildings, and mature landscaping and trees. Under existing conditions, there are no viewpoints that would provide an expansive view of the local mountains. For adjacent land uses to the north of the project area, views of the Coral Mountains and Santa Rosa Mountains are currently either partially blocked by walls, trees and buildings, or these features are located within the viewshed of these uses, generally situated along Calle Tampico east of Desert Club Drive (senior apartments) and around the Golf Course at Duna La Quinta, adjacent to the northerly boundary of the project area. Therefore, there would be no adverse effect on a scenic vista resulting from the development of new residential and non-residential uses in the project area, and this impact is considered to be less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.1-6 August 2016 5.1 AESTHETICS b. Substantial Adverse Effect on Scenic Resources Scenic Resources includes trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings that are visible from a State scenic highway, or locally significant scenic resources such as the Coral Mountains to the south and west of the Village. Currently, there are no State scenic highways that run through La Quinta or near the Village Build -out Plan project area. However, the City has one street in the project area that is designated as a City Image Corridor - Calle Tampico. A City Image Corridor, is a corridor that provides views of scenic resources such as the Coral Mountains and related Santa Rosa Mountains. Within the Village Build -out Plan project area, residents and visitors currently have partial views of natural features, including the Coral Mountains to the south and west, and to a lesser extent the Little San Bernardino Mountains to the north. These views are restricted by the Village's location on relatively flat topography as well as existing buildings and mature trees throughout the project area. The Village Build -out Plan will facilitate new development on sites that are currently vacant, and encourage redevelopment in existing underutilized areas within the project area. The development of new manmade structures, including buildings, streets, signage, walls, as well as landscaping, have the potential to replace or disrupt current views of the surrounding natural landscape across vacant lots and underutilized lots, particularly views of the Coral Mountain with its Indio and Eisenhower peaks to the west. Future development projects within the project area could also potentially affect views of scenic resources if they increase the intensity of the built environment by developing multi- story buildings above two stories. In addition, conversion of empty lots or parking lots into new building sites increases the potential to block views of the surrounding desert and mountains from existing development. In order achieve the goals of the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan of an additional 1,200+ residences and an additional 799,000+ square feet of non-residential uses, the building density both vertically and horizontally, must increase. Building heights up to 60 feet, plus potentially greater lot coverage allowed on a project by project basis, will result in a more dense Village with the potential to obstruct mountain views from local roads and residences. This represents an adverse and potentially significant impact on scenic resources. However, by considering views and view corridors on a project - by -project basis, setbacks from public streets, especially Calle Tampico, and setbacks between buildings, can reduce impacts to less than significant levels. Image Corridors and Views from Roadways Along Calle Tampico, views of the mountains to the west are relatively unobstructed with the exception of the palm trees that line the street on either side. In addition, although not designated, Washington Street, representing the eastern boundary of the project area, and Eisenhower Drive representing the western boundary of the project area, also provide mountain views. Under future conditions, these views can be maintained by requiring building setbacks from the street, securing La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.1-7 August 2016 5.1 AESTHETICS parkway easements, and expanding access for bicycles and golf carts. The intent is to ensure that the public views along Calle Tampico and other streets to a lesser extent, are not compromised. Public Utilities would also be considered when reviewing applications on sites within the project area that access Washington Street and Eisenhower Drive and undergrounding overhead utilities will be required. Threats to the City's scenic image corridors include inappropriate and unattractive land uses, unattractive or inadequate landscaping, inadequately buffered parking, excessive or inappropriate signage, high walls and berms that block views, and overhead power lines that degrade views. The protection and enhancement of views along City image corridors is also furthered by securing parkway easements along major roadways, and building setbacks from roads. Enhanced parkways would better assure viewshed protection and provide expanded access for alternative modes of travel. Parkway easements along image corridors help assure that the traveling public (and adjoining property owners) share in a quality landscaped parkway experience. As stated previously, the impact to scenic resources could be adverse in that intensifying urban uses in the Village Build -out Plan project area would result in the development of additional buildings, and that those buildings would be allowed to be taller than the currently permitted two -stories and 35 feet in height by 10 to 25 feet above what is currently permitted. As identified in Table 3-2, in Chapter 3, Project Description, future development could result in an additional 1,230 dwelling units and up to 799,786 square feet of non-residential uses. In order to accommodate this growth within an approximately 137 acre project area footprint, understanding that most of the properties in the project area are already developed, the success of this Build -out Plan is dependent on the elimination of the building height restriction. The significance of this impact is qualitative and subjective in that views of scenic resources from locations within the Village Build -out Plan project area would likely be obstructed, however, when the viewer moves further from the Village, views of these same scenic resources would be improved by providing distance between the viewer and the obstruction. Views of the Coral Mountains from outside the Village would still be available, although the new buildings would likely be within the middle ground of the view. In the future, with new buildings in place, views of the Coral Mountains will likely be less available for viewers within the Village. However, future projects proposed within the project area will be subject to requirements of the Zoning Code, Design Guidelines, and Site Plan Review, which would include an analysis of the proposed building's height and massing, and its relationship to other buildings in or adjacent to the Village that may be adversely affected by new development. Where feasible, view corridors that can be created by providing pedestrian corridors linked between building sites may also provide opportunities for views of the scenic mountains to the south and west. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.1-8 August 2016 5.1 AESTHETICS With adherence to requirements of the La Quinta Zoning Code for setbacks from public streets and setbacks from adjacent buildings, and conditions placed on a project by the Architectural and Landscape Review Board and/or the Planning Commission, the Village Build -out Plan would have a less than significant impact on aesthetics. This discussion is formalized in Section 5.1.6, Mitigation Measures, below. c. Substantial Degradation to Visual Character or Quality of the Site This impact focuses on the potential to degrade the visual character and quality of site development with regard to a future project's place within the Village's built environment. Incompatible land uses or building design - including height - have the potential to degrade the visual character and quality of the experience in the Village. The existing visual character of the Village Build -out project area includes the existing look, feel, and quality of a traditional core of a City, representing its roots. Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan has the potential to cause significant impacts on the existing visual character and quality of the experience of residents, business owners/staff, and visitors in the Village. Existing development within the Village consists of retail stores, offices, community facilities, parks, and apartments and some single family homes; and a shopping center at the northwest corner of Calle Tampico and Washington Street. Existing buildings tend to be low-rise structures (one- and two- story) and are interspersed with vacant properties. An interconnected street system provides accessibility throughout the Village. For the most part, streets are developed with sidewalks, curbs, and gutters. Landscaping along public right-of-ways provides visual relief from the built environment and enhances the visual character of the community. The Village Build -out Plan does not include any changes to the General Plan land use designations or Zoning District designations, but does include proposed increases in intensity or density to allow for a more integrated urban feel created by allowing residential uses above non-residential uses, and increasing building heights to provide greater density in the Village. This requires a Zoning Code text amendment to specifically allow for increased intensity and density of land uses in the Village. Any proposed increase in intensity or density would be considered on a project by project basis to ensure quality development and compatibility with land uses on adjacent sites, and within the Village as a whole; and create opportunities either individually or combined with other related projects in the Village to incorporate trails and paths for pedestrians and bicycles; and to incorporate transit and alternative transportation facilities into their designs. This is consistent with Goal LU -3 and Program LU -3.3.a, to provide incentives in the Zoning Code for creative and high quality development. The Build -out Plan is also consistent with Goal LU -6 by allowing for a mix of uses to create a balanced and varied economic base which provides a broad range of goods and services to the City's residents and the region; and Policy 6-2 to maintain commercial development, design and performance La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.1-9 August 2016 5.1 AESTHETICS standards to assure high quality development. Finally, the Build -out Plan is consistent with Goal LU -7 to encourage innovative land uses in the Village; and Policy LU -7.6, whereby the City will review the design of a development project to allow maximum flexibility for Mixed Use projects as they are proposed. Adherence with General Plan goals, policies and programs would ensure that new projects on vacant parcels are architecturally designed consistent with the City's intent and conditions placed on a project by the Architectural and Landscape Review Board and Planning Commission to facilitate a consistent and creative character of development within the Village; and that properties where existing buildings would be replaced with new development, those projects would continue to improve the visual character and quality of experience in the Village. Therefore, impacts in regard to substantial degradation to visual character and quality of a site as a result of implementation of the Village Build -out Plan would be less than significant. d. Substantial Adverse Effect on Light and Glare Light and glare impacts would be associated with increased urbanization in the project area. Within the Village, the majority of properties are developed, and daytime and nighttime skies are already affected to a limited extent of light and glare. Development of vacant land, and/or new replacement projects that may be developed on some underutilized properties within the Village would likely increase light and glare in the area. The visibility of dark skies could be diminished with an increase in traffic headlights, building lighting, streetlights, and indoor illumination. The City Outdoor Lighting Ordinance (Section 9.100.150 of the Municipal Code) provides regulations for reducing light and glare caused by new development as set forth in Mitigation Measure AES -1, therefore resulting in a less than significant impact. 5.1.5 Cumulative Impacts The proposed Village Build -out Plan applies to only that area within the approximately 137 -acre project area. The potential impacts on Aesthetics associated with the increased intensity of land uses and the density of dwelling units is unique to the Village Commercial District and the lands north of Tampico included in the Plan area. The rest of the City of La Quinta would not be affected by the implementation of this Plan. Therefore, impacts to scenic resources and the visual character or quality of a site are local and do not contribute to a cumulative impact. The analysis of the Village Build -out Plan and the potential adverse and/or significant impacts associated with implementation were found to be less than significant (scenic vistas and visual character) or less than significant with mitigation incorporated (light and glare); and because the proposed Build -out Plan only applies to the 137 -acre Village project area, and not the rest of the City, no cumulative impact was identified and cumulative impacts on scenic resources would be less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.1-10 August 2016 5.1 AESTHETICS Light and glare produced from new development within the Village will be cumulative towards the City's overall contribution to light and glare emitted from existing developed land use activities. However, it must be noted that lighting restrictions are in place for the La Quinta Cove which prohibit public street pole lighting and that any addition of new development from the Village without mitigation in addressing outdoor lighting would be considered as a significant cumulative impact to the region. Therefore, implementation of Mitigation Measure AES -1 will safeguard the protection of the surrounding community from light and glare and reduce potential cumulative impacts to less than significant levels. 5.1.6 Mitigation Measures Future development in the Village Build -out Plan project area could have an adverse effect on scenic resources and the visual character or quality of a site. Future development proposals would be subject to the requirements set forth in the Zoning Code and on a project by project basis, review by the City's Architectural and Landscape Review Board and Planning Commission, and subject to conditions of approval related to building design for building setbacks from streets, parkway easements, and pedestrian corridors, particularly for new development projects proposed along Calle Tampico. Site Plan Review on a project by project basis, and considering each project within the context of other existing or future buildings in the project area would ensure that views of scenic resources and the visual character or quality of a site would be less than significant. Examples of ways to minimize impacts include: • Where feasible, view corridors would be created by providing pedestrian corridors linked between building sites to provide opportunities for views of the scenic mountains to the south and west. • Building setbacks from Calle Tampico and other streets, would also help preserve view corridors. • Parkway easements along either side of existing streets, along building setbacks would also help preserve view corridors. Regarding Light and Glare, the following mitigation measure would apply to all projects in the project area. AES -1 During the building permit application, evidence must be submitted to prove that the proposed work will comply with the City Outdoor Lighting Ordinance of the Municipal Code. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.1-11 August 2016 5.1 AESTHETICS Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting A. The Building and Safety Department is responsible for reviewing development plans and applications to ensure that the project is in compliance with Section 9.100.150 of the La Quinta Municipal Code. Responsible Parties: Building and Safety Department 5.1.7 Level of Significance after Mitigation Compliance with Zoning Code requirements and the updated Design Guidelines, and the implementation of Mitigation Measure AES -1, impacts on Aesthetics will have a less than significant impact in the Village Build -out Plan project area. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.1-12 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY 5.2 Air Quality 5.2.1 Introduction This section describes the existing air quality setting and potential impacts from implementation of the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan within the project area and the surrounding area. Information for this section was obtained from the Air Quality Assessment entitled, La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Air Quality and Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, prepared by Kunzman Associates, March 2016. The report is included in Appendix B. Sources used in the preparation are included in Chapter 9, References. 5.2.2 Existing Conditions Environmental Setting Air quality conditions are a result of the geographic setting and local and regional activities. Local development and population growth, traffic, construction activities, and various site disturbances in the City of La Quinta result in the emission of air pollutants that affect local air quality. Although air pollution is emitted from various sources locally, regional air quality emissions also have an effect on local air quality. Activities outside of the Salton Sea Air Basin (SSAB), in which La Quinta is located, result in the emission of pollutants that make their way into the SSAB from adjacent air basins, including the South Coast Air Basin. Air quality in a given locality is a function of the amount of pollutants emitted and dispersed, as well as the local climatic and geographic conditions, which may reduce or enhance the formation of pollutants. The City of La Quinta is located in the Coachella Valley, and is subject to weather conditions that are typical of an inland desert climate. The San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountain Ranges west of La Quinta effectively cut off the region from coastal influences. During the summer, temperatures exceed 100°F. In the summer months, daily highs are around 105°F and lows are around 75°F. In the winter, temperatures can drop below 20°F, although winters are typically moderate, with daily average temperature highs around 70°F and lows around 50°F. Annual rainfall is typically less than 4 inches on the Valley floor, with higher mountain slopes receiving increased rainfall with increased elevation. Precipitation often occurs in relatively high volumes in short duration, and results in stormwater runoff with considerable sediment deposition on the Valley floor. The City of La Quinta is subject to high intensity wind events year round. During fall and winter months, high-pressure systems from the north can conflict with low-pressure systems from the south, and create a condition known as the Santa Ana winds, which can blow for multiple days at high La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.2-1 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY speeds. These strong winds sweep up, suspend and transport large quantities of sand and dust, reducing visibility, damaging property and constituting a significant health threat. Regulatory Setting The Village Build -out Plan is subject to the efforts of federal, state, regional, and local government agencies. These agencies work jointly, as well as individually, to improve air quality through legislation, regulations, planning, policy-making, education, and a variety of programs. The agencies responsible for improving the air quality are briefly discussed here. Federal United States Environmental Protection Agency The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for setting and enforcing the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for atmospheric pollutants. It regulates emission sources that are under the exclusive authority of the federal government, such as aircraft, ships, and certain locomotives. NAAQS pollutants were identified using medical evidence and are shown below in Table 5.2-1, State and Federal Criteria Pollutant Standards. As part of its enforcement responsibilities, the EPA requires each state with federal nonattainment areas to prepare and submit a State Implementation Plan (SIP) that demonstrates the means to attain the national standards. The SIP must integrate federal, state, and local components and regulations to identify specific measures to reduce pollution, using a combination of performance standards and market-based programs within the timeframe identified in the SIP. As indicated below in Table 5.2-2, Salton Sea Air Basin Attainment Status, the Coachella Valley -portion of the Salton Sea Air Basin has been designated by the EPA as a non -attainment area for ozone (03) and suspended particulates (PM1o). Currently, the Basin is in attainment with the ambient air quality standards for carbon monoxide (CO), lead, sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and particulate matter (PM2.5). On December 14, 2012, the EPA revised the primary annual PM2.5 NAAQS from 15 µg/m3 to 12 µg/m3 and retained the 24 hour PM2.5 standard at 35 µg/m3 in order to provide increased protection for children, older adults, persons with pre-existing heart and lung disease and other at risk populations. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-2 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Table 5.2-1 State and Federal Criteria Pollutant Standards Source: Inc. Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 3, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-3 August 2016 Concentration / Averaging Time Federal California Air Primary y Pollutant Standards Most Relevant Effects (a) Decline in pulmonary function and localized lung edema in humans and animals; (b) Risk to public health implied by alterations in pulmonary morphology and host defense in animals; (c) Increased Ozone (03) 0.09 ppm/1-hour 0.070 ppm/8- mortality risk; (d) Risk to public health implied by altered connective 0.07 ppm/8-hour hour tissue metabolism and altered pulmonary morphology in animals after long-term exposures and pulmonary function decrements in chronically exposed humans; (e) Vegetation damage; and (f) Property damage. (a) Aggravation of angina pectoris and other aspects of coronary Carbon ppm r 35.0 ppm/1- heart disease; (b) Decreased exercise tolerance in persons with Monoxide 9.0 -hou r 9.0 ppm/88-hour hour peripheral vascular disease and lung disease; (c) Impairment of (CO) 9.0 ppm/8-hour central nervous system functions; and (d) Possible increased risk to fetuses. (a) Potential to aggravate chronic respiratory disease and respiratory Nitrogen 0.18 ppm/1-hour 100 ppb/1-hour symptoms in sensitive groups; (b) Risk to public health implied by Dioxide 0.03 ppm/annual 0.053 pulmonary and extra -pulmonary biochemical and cellular changes (NO2) ppm/annual and pulmonary structural changes; and (c) Contribution to atmospheric discoloration. Sulfur 0.25 ppm/1-hour 75 ppb/1-hour (a) Bronchoconstriction accompanied by symptoms which may Dioxide 0.04 ppm/24-hour 0.14 ppm/24- include wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness, during (SO2) hour exercise or physical activity in persons with asthma. Suspended Particulate 50 µg/m3/24-hour 150 µg/m3/24- Matter 20 µg/m3/annual hour (a) Exacerbation of symptoms in sensitive patients with respiratory or (PM10) cardiovascular disease; (b) Declines in pulmonary function growth in children; (c) Increased risk of premature death from heart or lung Suspended 35 µg/m3/24- Particulate 12 µg/m3 /annual hour diseases in elderly. Matter 12 (PM2.5) µg/m3/annual No Federal (a) Decrease in ventilatory function; (b) Aggravation of asthmatic Sulfates 25 µg/m3/24-hour Standards symptoms; (c ) Aggravation of cardio -pulmonary disease; (d) Vegetation damage; (e) Degradation of visibility; (f) property damage. Lead 1.5 0.15 µg/m3/3- (a) Learning disabilities; (b) Impairment of blood formation and nerve µg/m1/30-day month rolling conduction. Extinction coefficient of 0.23 Visibility per kilometer - Reducing visibility of 10 No Federal Visibility impairment on days when relative humidity is less than 70 Particles miles or more due Standards percent. to particles when humidity is less than 70 percent. Source: Inc. Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 3, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-3 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Table 5.2-2 Salton Sea Air Basin Attainment Status Pollutant State Status' National StatuS2 Ozone Nonattainment Nonattainment Carbon monoxide Attainment Attainment Nitrogen dioxide Attainment Unclassified/Attainment Sulfur dioxide Attainment Attainment PM10 Nonattainment Nonattainment PM2.5 Attainment Nonattainment Source: Inc. Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 4, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 Notes: 1. Source of State status: California Air Resources Board 2013. 2. Source of National status: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 2012 State California Air Resources Board The California Air Resources Board (CARB), which is a part of the California Environmental Protection Agency, is responsible for the coordination and administration of both federal and state air pollution control programs within California. In this capacity, the CARB conducts research, sets the California Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS), compiles emission inventories, develops suggested control measures, provides oversight of local programs, and prepares the State Implementation Plan (SIP) (Refer to CAAQS criteria pollutants in Table 5.2-1). In addition, the CARB establishes emission standards for motor vehicles sold in California, consumer products (e.g. hairspray, aerosol paints, and barbeque lighter fluid), and various types of commercial equipment. It also sets fuel specifications to further reduce vehicular emissions. The Coachella Valley has been designated by the CARB as a non -attainment area for ozone and PM1o. Currently, the Coachella Valley is in attainment with the ambient air quality standards for CO, lead, SO2, NO2, PM2.5, and sulfates and is unclassified for visibility reducing particles and Hydrogen Sulfide. On June 20, 2002, the CARB revised the PM10 annual average standard to 20 µg/m3 and established an annual average standard for PM2.5 of 12 Itg/m3. These standards were approved by the Office of Administrative Law in June 2003 and are now effective. On September 27, 2007 CARB approved the South Coast Air Basin and the Coachella Valley 2007 Air Quality Management Plan for Attaining the Federal 8 -hour Ozone and PM2.5 Standards. The plan projects attainment for the 8 -hour Ozone standard by 2024 and the PM2.5 standard by 2015. On December 12, 2008 the CARB adopted Resolution 08-43, which limits NO., PM10 and PM2.s emissions from on -road diesel truck fleets that operate in California. On October 12, 2009 Executive Order R-09-010 was adopted that codified Resolution 08-43 into Section 2025, title 13 of the La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-4 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY California Code of Regulations. This regulation requires that by the year 2023 all commercial diesel trucks that operate in California meet model year 2010 (Tier 4) or later emission standards. In the interim period, this regulation provides annual interim targets for fleet owners to meet. This regulation also provides a few exemptions including a onetime per year 3 -day pass for trucks registered outside of California. The CARB is also responsible for regulations pertaining to toxic air contaminants. The Air Toxics "Hot Spots" Information and Assessment Act (AB 2588, 1987, Connelly) was enacted in 1987 as a means to establish a formal air toxics emission inventory risk quantification program. AB 2588, as amended, establishes a process that requires stationary sources to report the type and quantities of certain substances their facilities routinely release into the South Coast Air Basin. The data is ranked by high, intermediate, and low categories, which are determined by the potency, toxicity, quantity, volume, and proximity of the facility to nearby receptors. Regional South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) The SCAQMD is the agency principally responsible for comprehensive air pollution control in the Coachella Valley. To that end, as a regional agency, the SCAQMD works directly with the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), county transportation commissions, and local governments and cooperates actively with all federal and state agencies. The SCAQMD develops rules and regulations, establishes permitting requirements for stationary sources, inspects emission sources, and enforces regulatory measures through educational programs or fines, when necessary. The SCAQMD is directly responsible for reducing emissions from stationary, mobile, and indirect sources. It has responded to this requirement by preparing a sequence of AQMPs. A revised draft of the 2012 AQMP was released on September, 2012, was adopted by the SCAQMD Board on December 7, 2012, and was adopted by CARB via Resolution 13-3 on January 25, 2013. The 2012 AQMP was prepared in order to meet the federal Clean Air Act requirement that all 24-hour PM2.5 non -attainment areas prepare a SIP, that were required to be submitted to the U.S. EPA by December 14, 2012 and demonstrate attainment with the 24-hour PMz.s standard by 2014. The 2012 AQMP demonstrates attainment of the federal 24-hour PMz.s standard by 2014 in the Basin through adoption of all feasible measures. The 2012 AQMP builds upon the approaches taken in the 2007 AQMP for the attainment of federal PM and ozone standards, and highlights the significant amount of reductions needed and the need to engage in interagency coordinated planning of mobile sources to meet all of the federal criteria pollutant standards. Compared with the 2007 AQMP, the 2012 AQMP utilizes revised emissions inventory projections that use 2008 as the base year. On -road emissions are calculated using CARB La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-5 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY EMFAC2011 emission factors and the transportation activity data provided by SCAG from their 2012 Regional Transportation Plan (2012 RTP). Off-road emissions were updated using CARB's 2011 In -Use Off -Road Fleet Inventory Model. Since the 2007 AQMP was finalized new area source categories such as liquid propane gas transmission losses, storage tank and pipeline cleaning and degassing, and architectural colorants, were created and included in the emissions inventories. The 2012 AQMP also includes analysis of several additional sources of GHG emissions such as landfills and could also assist in reaching the GHG target goals in the AB32 Scoping Plan. During construction and operation, all projects within the Village Build -out Plan must comply with applicable rules and regulations. The following are rules that the Village will be required to comply with, either directly, or indirectly: SCAQMD Rule 402 prohibits a person from discharging from any source whatsoever such quantities of air contaminants or other material which cause injury, detriment, nuisance, or annoyance to any considerable number of persons or to the public, or which endanger the comfort, repose, health or safety of any such persons or the public, or which cause, or have a natural tendency to cause injury or damage to business or property. SCAQMD Rule 403 governs emissions of fugitive dust during construction and operation activities. Compliance with this rule is achieved through application of standard Best Management Practices, such as application of water or chemical stabilizers to disturbed soils, covering haul vehicles, restricting vehicle speeds on unpaved roads to 15 miles per hour, sweeping loose dirt from paved site access roadways, cessation of construction activity when winds exceed 25 mph, and establishing a permanent ground cover on finished sites. Rule 403 requires that fugitive dust be controlled with best available control measures so that the presence of such dust does not remain visible in the atmosphere beyond the property line of the emission source. In addition, SCAQMD Rule 403 requires implementation of dust suppression techniques to prevent fugitive dust from creating a nuisance off-site. Applicable dust suppression techniques from Rule 403 are summarized below. Implementation of these dust suppression techniques can reduce the fugitive dust generation (and thus the PMlo component). Compliance with these rules would reduce impacts on nearby sensitive receptors. Rule 403 measures may include but are not limited to the following measures: • Apply nontoxic chemical soil stabilizers according to manufacturers' specifications to all inactive construction areas (previously graded areas inactive for 10 days or more). • Water active sites at least three times daily. (Locations where grading is to occur will be thoroughly watered prior to earthmoving.) La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-6 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY • Cover all trucks hauling dirt, sand, soil, or other loose materials, or maintain at least 0.6 meters (2 feet) of freeboard (vertical space between the top of the load and top of the trailer) in accordance with the requirements of California Vehicle Code section 23114. • Reduce traffic speeds on all unpaved roads to 15 miles per hour (mph) or less. • Suspension of all grading activities when wind speeds (including instantaneous wind gusts) exceed 25 mph. • Bumper strips or similar best management practices shall be provided where vehicles enter and exit the construction site onto paved roads or wash off trucks and any equipment leaving the site each trip. • Replanting disturbed areas as soon as practical. • During all construction activities, construction contractors shall sweep on-site and off-site streets if silt is carried to adjacent public thoroughfares, to reduce the amount of particulate matter on public streets. All sweepers shall be compliant with SCAQMD Rule 1186.1, Less Polluting Sweepers. SCAQMD Rule 403.1 is supplemental to Rule 403 requirements and applies only to fugitive dust sources in the Coachella Valley. General Requirements of 403.1 (1) Any person who is responsible for any active operation, open storage pile, or disturbed surface area, and who seeks an exemption pursuant to Rule 403, paragraph (g)(2) shall be required to determine when wind speed conditions exceed 25 miles per hour. The wind speed determination shall be based on either District forecasts or through use of an on-site anemometer as described in subdivision (g). (2) Any person involved in active operations in the Coachella Valley Blowsand Zone shall stabilize new man-made deposits of bulk material within 24 hours of making such bulk material deposits. Stabilization procedures shall include one or more of the following: (A) Application of water to at least 70 percent of the surface area of any bulk material deposits at least 3 times for each day that there is evidence of wind driven fugitive dust; or (B) Application of chemical stabilizers in sufficient concentration so as to maintain a stabilized surface for a period of at least 6 months; or Installation of wind breaks of such design so as to reduce maximum wind gusts to less than 25 miles per hour in the area of the bulk material deposits. (3) Any person involved in active operations in the Coachella Valley Blowsand Zone shall stabilize new deposits of bulk material originating from off-site undisturbed natural desert areas within 72 hours. Stabilization procedures shall include one or more of the following: Application of water to at least 70 percent of the surface area of any bulk material deposits at least 3 times for each day that there is evidence of wind driven fugitive dust; or (B) Application La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-7 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY of chemical stabilizers in sufficient concentration so as to maintain a stabilized surface for a period of at least six months. (4) A person who conducts or authorizes the conducting of an active operation shall implement at least one of the control actions specified in Rule 403, Table 2 for the source category "Inactive Disturbed Surface Areas" to minimize wind driven fugitive dust from disturbed surface areas at such time when active operations have ceased for a period of at least 20 days. (5) Any person involved in agricultural tilling or soil mulching activities shall cease such activities when wind speeds exceed 25 miles per hour. The wind speed determination shall be based on either District forecasts or through use of an on-site anemometer as described in subdivision (g). Fugitive Dust Control Plan and Other Requirements for Construction Projects/Earth-Moving Activities (1) Any person who conducts or authorizes the conducting of an active operation with a disturbed surface area of more than 5,000 square feet shall not initiate any earth -moving activities unless a fugitive dust control plan is prepared and approved by the Executive Officer in accordance with the requirements of subdivision (f) and the Rule 403.1 Implementation Handbook. These provisions shall not apply to active operations exempted by paragraph (i)(4). (2) Any operator required to submit a fugitive dust control plan under paragraph (e)(1) shall maintain a complete copy of the approved fugitive dust control plan on-site in a conspicuous place at all times and the fugitive dust control plan must be provided upon request. (3) Any operator required to submit a fugitive dust control plan under paragraph (e)(1) shall install and maintain signage with project contact information that meets the minimum standards of the Rule 403.1 Implementation Handbook prior to initiating any type of earth -moving activities. (4) Any operator required to submit a fugitive dust control plan under paragraph (e)(1) for a project with a disturbed surface area of 50 or more acres shall have an Dust Control Supervisor that: (A) is employed by or contracted with the property owner or developer; and (B) is on-site or is available to be on-site within 30 minutes of initial contact; and (C) has the authority to expeditiously employ sufficient dust mitigation measures to ensure compliance with all Rule 403 and 403.1 requirements; and (D) has completed the AQMD Coachella Valley Fugitive Dust Control Class and has been issued a valid Certificate of Completion for the class. (5) Failure to comply with any of the provisions of an approved fugitive dust control plan shall be a violation of this rule. SCAQMD Rule 445 prohibits permanently installed wood burning devices in any new development. A wood burning device means any fireplace, wood burning heater, or pellet -fueled wood heater, or any similarly enclosed, permanently installed, indoor or outdoor device burning any solid fuel for aesthetic or space -heating purposes, which has a heat output of less than one million British thermal units per hour. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-8 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY SCAQMD Rule 481 applies to all spray painting and spray coating operations and equipment. The rule states that a person shall not use or operate any spray painting or spray coating equipment without implementing specific requirements. SCAQMD Rule 1108 governs the sale, use, and manufacturing of asphalt and limits the volatile organic compound (VOC) content in asphalt used in the South Coast Air Basin. This rule regulates the VOC content of asphalt used during construction. Therefore, all asphalt used during construction of the project must comply with SCAQMD Rule 1108. SCAQMD Rule 1113 governs the sale, use, and manufacturing of architectural coatings and limits the VOC content in paints and paint solvents. This rule regulates the VOC content of paints available during construction. Therefore, all paints and solvents used during construction and operation of the project must comply with SCAQMD Rule 1113. SCAQMD Rule 1143 governs the manufacture, sale, and use of paint thinners and solvents used in thinning of coating materials, cleaning of coating application equipment, and other solvent cleaning operations by limiting their VOC content. This rule regulates the VOC content of solvents used during construction. Solvents used during the construction phase must comply with this rule. SCAQMD Rule 1186 limits the presence of fugitive dust on paved and unpaved roads and sets certification protocols and requirements for street sweepers that are under contract to provide sweeping services to any federal, state, county, agency or special district such as water, air, sanitation, transit, or school district. SCAQMD Rule 1303 governs the permitting of re -located or new major emission sources, requiring Best Available Control Measures and setting significance limits for PM10 among other pollutants. SCAQMD Rule 1401, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants, specifies limits for maximum individual cancer risk, cancer burden, and non -cancer acute and chronic hazard index from new units, relocations, or modifications to existing units, which emit toxic air contaminants. SCAQMD Rule 2202, On -Road Motor Vehicle Mitigation Options, is to provide employers with a menu of options to reduce mobile source emissions generated from employee commutes, to comply with federal and state Clean Air Act requirements, Health & Safety Code Section 40458, and Section 182(d)(1)(B) of the federal Clean Air Act. It applies to any employer who employs 250 or more employees on a full or part-time basis at a worksite for a consecutive six-month period. In order to assist local agencies with direction on GHG emissions, the SCAQMD organized a working group and adopted Rules 2700, 2701, 2702, and 3002 which are discussed in Section 5.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-9 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Southern California Association of Governments SCAG is the regional planning agency for Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, Riverside, San Bernardino and Imperial counties and addresses regional issues relating to transportation, the economy, community development and the environment. SCAG is the federally designated Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for the majority of the southern California region and is the largest MPO in the nation. With respect to air quality planning, SCAG has prepared the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and Regional Transportation Improvement Plan (RTIP), which addresses regional development and growth forecasts. These plans form the basis for the land use and transportation components of the Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP), which are utilized in the preparation of air quality forecasts and in the consistency analysis included in the AQMP. The RTP, RTIP, and AQMP are based on land use projections originating within City and County General Plans. Local — City of La Quinta Local jurisdictions, such as the City of La Quinta, have the authority and responsibility to reduce air pollution through their police power and decision-making authority. Specifically, the City is responsible for the assessment and mitigation of air emissions resulting from its land use decisions. The City is also responsible for the implementation of transportation control measures as outlined in the 2007 and 2012 AQMP. Examples of such measures include bus turnouts, energy-efficient streetlights, and synchronized traffic signals. In accordance with CEQA requirements and the CEQA review process, the City assesses the air quality impacts of new development projects, requires mitigation of potentially significant air quality impacts by conditioning discretionary permits, and monitors and enforces implementation of such mitigation. In accordance with the CEQA requirements, the City does not, however, have the expertise to develop plans, programs, procedures, and methodologies to ensure that air quality within the City and region will meet Federal and State standards. Instead, the City relies on the expertise of the SCAQMD and utilizes the SCAQMD CEQA Handbook as the guidance document for the environmental review of plans and development proposals within its jurisdiction. The City of La Quinta's Municipal Code includes Chapter 6.16, Fugitive Dust Control, which establishes the minimum requirements for construction and demolition activities and other specified sources in order to reduce man-made fugitive dust and related PM10 emissions. Performance standards and test methods for determining the severity of emissions and controlling fugitive dust are based on the Coachella Valley Dust Control Handbook. The preparation and implementation of a PM10 Fugitive Dust Control Plan applies to any project that would disturb more than 5,000 square feet. Criteria Pollutants The following air pollutants are collectively known as criteria air pollutants and are defined as those La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-10 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY pollutants for which established air quality standards have been adopted by federal and state governments. The following provides a summary description of each criteria pollutant: Ozone (03) Ozone is a gas formed when byproducts of the internal combustion engine and other urban processes, particularly nitrogen oxide (NOX) and volatile organic compounds (VOC), react in the presence of ultraviolet sunlight. It is a pungent, colorless, toxic gas commonly referred to as smog. Carbon monoxide (CO) Carbon monoxide is produced from the partial combustion of fossil fuels. EPA estimates that 85%- 95% of all CO emissions come from motor vehicle exhaust. Carbon monoxide contributes to the production of methane, ozone, and carbon dioxide. It is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless toxic gas that at high concentrations can contribute to heart disease, anemia, and impaired psychological behavior. Nitrogen Oxide (NOX) Nitric oxide (NO) and Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) are the primary oxides of nitrogen that are considered criteria pollutants. NOX emissions are byproducts from the operation of motor vehicles, power plants, and off-road equipment. Short-term exposure to nitrogen dioxide can result in airway constriction, diminished lung capacity, and is highly toxic by inhalation. Sulfur Oxide (SOX) Sulfur oxides occur naturally from volcanic activity, and are generated as a result of various industrial processes. The most common sulfur oxide compound is Sulfur dioxide (SO2), which results from the combustion of high -sulfur content fuels, such as coal and petroleum. Sources include motor vehicle fuel combustion, fossil fuel power plants, chemical manufacturing plants, and sulfur recovery plants. Sulfur dioxide acts as an acid, can result in the formation of acid rain, and is a colorless, odorous gas. Particulate Matter Particulate matter of ten microns or smaller in diameter are referred to as PM1o, whereas PM2.5 consists of particles smaller than 2.5 microns. Particulate matter (PM) may be from soil and dust, soot and smoke, or aerosols, and is a byproduct of fuel combustion, tire wear, and wind erosion. Particles less than ten microns in diameter can enter the throat, nose, and lungs. Fine particulate matter poses a significant threat to public health and can cause increased respiratory infections, asthma attacks, and lung cancer. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-11 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Lead (Pb) Lead occurs in the atmosphere from the manufacturing of batteries, paint, ink, and ammunition. Excessive exposure to airborne lead can lead to anemia, kidney disease, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and neuromuscular and neurological disorders. Volatile Organic Compounds Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) are also known as Reactive Organic Gas (ROG). This class of pollutants have no state or federal ambient air quality standards and is not classified as a criteria pollutant, however the compounds are regulated because they are responsible for contributing to the formation of ozone. They also contribute to higher PM10 levels because they transform into organic aerosols when released into the atmosphere. Toxic Air Contaminants In addition to the above -listed criteria pollutants, toxic air contaminants (TACs) are another group of pollutants of concern. Sources of toxic air contaminants include industrial processes such as petroleum refining and chrome plating operations, commercial operations such as gasoline stations and dry cleaners, and motor vehicle exhaust. Cars and trucks release at least forty different toxic air contaminants. The most important of these toxic air contaminants, in terms of health risk, are diesel particulates, benzene, formaldehyde, 1,3 -butadiene, and acetaldehyde. Public exposure to toxic air contaminants can result from emissions from normal operations as well as from accidental releases. Health effects of toxic air contaminants include cancer, birth defects, neurological damage, and death. Toxic air contaminants are less pervasive in the urban atmosphere than criteria air pollutants, however they are linked to short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic or carcinogenic) adverse human health effects. There are hundreds of different types of toxic air contaminants with varying degrees of toxicity. Sources of toxic air contaminants include industrial processes, commercial operations (e.g., gasoline stations and dry cleaners), and motor vehicle exhaust. According to the 2005 California Almanac of Emissions and Air Quality, the majority of the estimated health risk from toxic air contaminants can be attributed to relatively few compounds, the most important of which is diesel particulate matter (DPM). Diesel particulate matter is a subset of PM2.5 because the size of diesel particles is typically 2.5 microns and smaller. The identification of diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant in 1998 led the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to adopt the Risk Reduction Plan to Reduce Particulate Matter Emissions from Diesel -fueled Engines and Vehicles in September 2000. The plan's goals are a 75 -percent reduction in diesel particulate matter by 2010 and an 85 -percent reduction by 2020 from the 2000 baseline. Diesel engines emit a complex mixture of air pollutants, composed of gaseous and solid material. The visible emissions in diesel exhaust are known as particulate matter or PM, which includes carbon particles or "soot." Diesel exhaust also contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other cancer-causing substances. California's identification of diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant was based on its La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-12 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY potential to cause cancer, premature deaths, and other health problems. Exposure to diesel particulate matter is a health hazard, particularly to children whose lungs are still developing and the elderly who may have other serious health problems. Overall, diesel engine emissions are responsible for the majority of California's potential airborne cancer risk from combustion sources. Asbestos Asbestos is listed as a TAC by the ARB and as a Hazardous Air Pollutant by the EPA. Asbestos occurs naturally in mineral formations and crushing or breaking these rocks, through construction or other means, can release asbestiform fibers into the air. Asbestos emissions can result from the sale or use of asbestos -containing materials, road surfacing with such materials, grading activities, and surface mining. The risk of disease is dependent upon the intensity and duration of exposure. When inhaled, asbestos fibers may remain in the lungs and with time may be linked to such diseases as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Naturally occurring asbestos is not present in Riverside County. The nearest likely locations of naturally occurring asbestos, as identified in the General Location Guide for Ultramafic Rocks in California prepared by the California Division of Mines and Geology, is located in Santa Barbara County. Due to the distance to the nearest natural occurrences of asbestos, the Village Build -out Plan is not likely to contain asbestos. Monitored Air Quality The air quality at any site is dependent on the regional air quality and local pollutant sources. Regional air quality is determined by the release of pollutants throughout the air basin. Estimates of the existing emissions in the Basin provided in the Final 2012 Air Quality Management Plan, prepared by SCAQMD (December, 2012) indicate that collectively, mobile sources account for 59 percent of the VOC, 88 percent of the NOX emissions and 40 percent of directly emitted PM2.5, with another 10 percent of PM2.5from road dust. The EPA and the ARB designate air basins where ambient air quality standards are exceeded as "nonattainment" areas. If standards are met, the area is designated as an "attainment" area. If there is inadequate or inconclusive data to make a definitive attainment designation, they are considered "unclassified." National nonattainment areas are further designated as marginal, moderate, serious, severe, or extreme as a function of deviation from standards. Each standard has a different definition, or 'form' of what constitutes attainment, based on specific air quality statistics. For example, the Federal 8 -hour CO standard is not to be exceeded more than once per year; therefore, an area is in attainment of the CO standard if no more than one 8 -hour ambient air monitoring value exceeds the threshold per year. In contrast, the Federal annual PM2.5 standard is met if the three-year average of the annual average PM2.5 concentration is less than or equal to the standard. (Refer to Table 5.2-2, Salton Sea Air Basin Attainment Status). La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-13 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Local air quality can be evaluated by reviewing relevant air pollution concentrations near the project area. For evaluation purposes, the SCAQMD has divided the District into 36 Source Receptor Areas (SRAs), operating monitoring stations in most of the areas. These SRAs are designated to provide a general representation of the local meteorological, terrain, and air quality conditions within the particular geographical area. The Village Build -out Plan is within Source Receptor Area 30. SCAQMD operates two air monitoring stations in SRA 30, one in Indio, approximately 5.21 miles northeast of the Village (Indio Station) and the other in Palm Springs, approximately 18.45 miles northwest of the Village (Palm Springs Station). Table 5.2-3, Air Quality Monitoring Summary, summarizes 2012 through 2014 published monitoring data, which is the most recent 3 -year period available. The data shows that during the past few years, the project area has exceeded the ozone and PM10 standards. However, it should be noted that due to the air monitoring station distance from the project site, recorded air pollution levels at the air monitoring station reflect with varying degrees of accuracy, local air quality conditions at the project site. Ozone During the 2012 to 2014 monitoring period, the State 1 -hour concentration standard for ozone has been exceeded two days each year at the Indio Station. The State 8 -hour ozone standard has been exceeded between 30 and 45 days each year over the past three years at the Indio Station. The Federal 8 -hour ozone standard was exceeded between 10 and 24 days each year over the past three years at the Indio Station. Ozone is a secondary pollutant as it is not directly emitted. Ozone is the result of chemical reactions between other pollutants, most importantly hydrocarbons and NO2, which occur only in the presence of bright sunlight. Pollutants emitted from upwind cities react during transport downwind to produce the oxidant concentrations experienced in the area. Many areas of the SCAQMD contribute to the ozone levels experienced at the monitoring station, with the more significant areas being those directly upwind. Carbon Monoxide CO is another important pollutant that is due mainly to motor vehicles. The Palm Springs Station did not record an exceedance of the state or federal 1 -hour or 8 -hour CO standards for the last three years. Nitrogen Dioxide The Palm Springs Station did not record an exceedance of the State or Federal NO2 standards for the last three years. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-14 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Particulate Matter According to the EPA, some people are much more sensitive than others to breathing fine particles (PM10 and PM2.5). People with influenza, chronic respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and the elderly may suffer worsening illness and premature death due to breathing these fine particles. People with bronchitis can expect aggravated symptoms from breathing in fine particles. Children may experience decline in lung function due to breathing in PM10 and PM2.5• Table 5.2-3 Air Quality Monitoring Summary Source: Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 5, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 Notes: 1. CAAQS = California Ambient Air Quality Standard; NAAQS = National Ambient Air Quality Standard; ppm = parts per million 2. Data from Palm Springs station *means there was insufficient data available to determine value La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-15 August 2016 Year Pollutant (Standard)' 2012 2013 2014 Ozone: Maximum 1 -Hour Concentration (ppm) 0.102 0.105 0.095 Days > CAAQS (0.09 ppm) 2 2 2 Maximum 8 -Hour Concentration (ppm) 0.090 0.087 0.091 Days > NAAQS (0.08 ppm) 24 18 10 Days > CAAQS (0.070 ppm) 45 38 30 Carbon Monoxide :2 Maximum 8 -Hour Concentration (ppm) 0.45 Days > CAAQS (9 ppm) 0 0 0 Days > NAAQS (9 ppm) 0 0 0 Nitrogen Dioxide :2 Annual Average (ppm) 0.007 0.007 1 -Hour 98th Percentile 0.0393 0.0388 0.0412 Maximum 1 -Hour Concentration (ppm) 0.045 0.052 0.046 Days > CAAQS (0.18 ppm) 0 0 0 Inhalable Particulates (PM10): Maximum 24 -Hour Concentration (µg/m3) 270.6 255.2 322.3 Days > NAAQS (150 µg/m3) 2 3 6 Days > CAAQS (50 µg/m3) 7 14 15 Annual Average (1,Lg/m3) 33.6 37.5 43.5 Ultra -Fine Particulates (PM2.5): Maximum 24 -Hour Concentration (µg/m3) 18.4 25.8 26.5 Days > NAAQS (35 µg/m3) 0 0 0 Annual Average (µg/m3) 7.6 8.3 8.3 Source: Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 5, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 Notes: 1. CAAQS = California Ambient Air Quality Standard; NAAQS = National Ambient Air Quality Standard; ppm = parts per million 2. Data from Palm Springs station *means there was insufficient data available to determine value La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-15 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Other groups considered sensitive are smokers and people who cannot breathe well through their noses. Exercising athletes are also considered sensitive, because many breathe through their mouths during exercise. The Indio Station did not record an exceedance of the Federal PM2.5standards during the most recent three year period. However, the Indio Station did record exceedances of the federal PM10 standards between two and six days during the most recent three year period; as well as the State PM10 standards which were exceeded between seven and 15 days during the same three year period. Air Quality Standards Regional Air Quality Many air quality impacts that derive from dispersed mobile sources, which are the dominant pollution generators in the basin, often occur hours later and miles away after photochemical processes have converted primary exhaust pollutants into secondary contaminants such as ozone. The incremental regional air quality impact of an individual project is generally very small and difficult to measure. Therefore, the SCAQMD has developed significance thresholds based on the volume of pollution emitted rather than on actual ambient air quality because the direct air quality impact of a project is not quantifiable on a regional scale. The SCAQMD CEQA Handbook states that any project in the South Coast Air Basin with daily emissions that exceed any of the identified significance thresholds should be considered as having an individually and cumulatively significant air quality impact. For the purposes to this air quality impact analysis, a regional air quality impact would be considered significant if emissions exceed the SCAQMD significance thresholds identified in Table 5.2-4, SCAQMD Air Quality Significance Thresholds for Coachella Valley. Localized Air Quality Project -related construction air emissions may have the potential to exceed the State and Federal air quality standards in the project vicinity, even though these pollutant emissions may not be significant enough to create a regional impact to the South Coast Air Basin. In order to assess local air quality impacts the SCAQMD has developed Localized Significant Thresholds (LSTs) to assess the project - related air emissions in the project vicinity. The SCAQMD has also provided Final Localized Significant Threshold Methodology (LST Methodology), June 2003, which details the methodology to analyze local air emission impacts. The Localized Significant Threshold Methodology found that the primary emissions of concern are NO2, CO, PM1o, and PM2.5. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-16 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Table 5.2-4 SCAQMD Air Quality Significance Thresholds for Coachella Valley Mass Daily Thresholds Pollutant Construction (lbs/day) Operation (lbs/day) NOx 100 100 VOC 75 75 PM 10 150 150 PM2.5 55 55 Sox 150 150 CO 550 550 Lead 3 3 Toxic Air Contaminants, Odor and GHG Thresholds TACs Maximum Incremental Cancer Risk >_ 10 in 1 million Cancer Burden > 0.5 excess cancer cases (in areas >_ 1 in 1 million) Chronic & Acute Hazard Index > 1.0 (project increment) Odor Project creates an odor nuisance pursuant to SCAQMD Rule 402 GHG 3,000 MT/yr CO2e for all land uses. Ambient Air Quality Standards Pollutant SCAQMD Standards NO2 -1-hour average 0.18 ppm (338 11g/m^3) PM10 -24-hour average Construction Operations 10.4 µg/m^3 2.5 ug/m^3 PM2.5 -24-hour average Construction Operations 10.4 µg/m^3 2.5 µg/m^3 S02 1 -hour average 24-hour average 0.25 ppm 0.04 ppm CO 1 -hour average 8 -hour average 20 ppm (23,000 µg/m^3) 9 ppm (10,000 µg/m^3) Lead 30 -day average Rolling 3 -month average Quarterly average 1.5 µg/m^3 0.15 µg/m^3 1.5 µg/m^3 Source: Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 6, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 Note: 1. Construction thresholds apply to both the South Coast Air Basin and Coachella Valley. For Coachella Valley, the mass daily thresholds for operation are the same as the construction thresholds. Toxic Air Contaminants According to the SCAQMD CEQA Handbook, any project that has the potential to expose the public to toxic air contaminants in excess of the following thresholds would be considered to have a significant air quality impact: • If the Maximum Incremental Cancer Risk is 10 in one million or greater; or • Toxic air contaminants from the proposed project would result in a Hazard Index increase of 1 or greater. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-17 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY In order to determine if the proposed project may have a significant impact related to hazardous air pollutants (HAP), the Health Risk Assessment Guidance for analyzing Cancer Risks from Mobile Source Diesel Idling Emissions for CEQA Air Quality Analysis, (Diesel Analysis), prepared by SCAQMD, August 2003, recommends that if a proposed project is anticipated to create hazardous air pollutants through stationary sources or regular operations of diesel trucks on the project site, then the proximity of the nearest receptors to the source of the hazardous air pollutants and the toxicity of the hazardous air pollutants should be analyzed through a comprehensive facility -wide health risk assessment (HRA). This project includes a variety of specialty retail, office, and residential uses, and would not be a significant source of stationary or mobile -source TACs. Odor The SCAQMD CEQA Handbook states that an odor impact would occur if the proposed project creates an odor nuisance pursuant to SCAQMD Rule 402, which states: A person shall not discharge from any source whatsoever such quantities of air contaminants or other material which cause injury, detriment, nuisance, or annoyance to any considerable number of persons to the public, or which endanger the comfort, repose, health or safety of any such persons or the public, or which cause, or have a natural tendency to cause, injury or damage to business or property. The provisions of this rule do not apply to odors emanating from agricultural operations necessary for the growing of crops or the raising of fowl or animals. If the proposed project results in a violation of Rule 402 with regards to odor impacts, then the proposed project would create a significant odor impact. 5.2.3 Applicable Goals and Policies The City of La Quinta Air Quality Element contains the following air quality goals and policies that are applicable to the proposed project: GOAL AQ -1 A reduction in all air emissions generated within the City. Policy AQ -1.1 Coordinate with the South Coast Air Quality Management District to assure compliance with air quality standards. Program AQ -1.1.a: Participate in monitoring, managing, and enforcing SCAQMD rules for criteria pollutants, TACs, GHGs and all other regional air pollutants of concern. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-18 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Policy AQ -1.2 Work to reduce emissions from residential and commercial energy use by encouraging decreased consumption and increased efficiency. Policy AQ -1.3 Work to reduce emissions from mobile sources by encouraging a decrease in the number of vehicle trips and vehicle miles traveled. Program AQ -1.3.d: Expand routes for golf carts and other neighborhood electric vehicles and plan for access and Recharging facilities at retail, recreational, and community centers. Program AQ -1.3.e: Expand pedestrian and bicycle routes and provide safe and convenient access to retail, recreational, and community centers. Program AQ -1.3.f: Facilitate mixed use development concepts in specific identified areas of the community to allow the combination of residential and non-residential uses, such as live -work- shop designs, as described in the Land Use Element. Program AQ -1.3.g: Where permitted by the Land Use plan, and where appropriate, encourage high density residential development within walking distance to commercial, educational and recreational opportunities. Policy AQ -1.4 Protect people and sites that are especially sensitive to airborne pollutants (sensitive receptors) from polluting point sources. Policy AQ -1.5 Ensure all construction activities minimize emissions of all air quality pollutants. Program AQ -1.5.a: All grading and ground disturbance activities shall adhere to established fugitive dust criteria. Program AQ -1.5.b: Fugitive Dust Control Plans shall be reviewed and approved for development projects. Policy AQ -1.6 Proposed development air quality emissions of criteria pollutants shall be analyzed under CEQA. 5.2.4 Project Impact Analysis The potential for air quality impacts will increase with implementation of the Village Build -out Plan due to the increase in urban activity in the project area. Air pollutants will be generated from a variety of activities occurring within the Village, including grading and construction, vehicle emissions, and La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-19 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY daily operations. Emissions generated by vehicular traffic are projected to be the greatest source of air pollutants. Thresholds of Significance The following thresholds or criteria are derived from Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, and are used to determine the level of potential effect. The significance determination is based on the recommended criteria set forth in Section 15064 of the CEQA Guidelines. For analysis purposes, build- out of the La Quinta Village would have a significant effect on air quality emissions if it is determined that the project will: 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). d. Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations. e. Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people. a. Consistency with Air Quality Management Plan CEQA requires a discussion of any inconsistencies between a proposed project and applicable General Plans and Regional Plans (CEQA Guidelines Section 15125). The regional plan that applies to the proposed project includes the SCAQMD AQMP. Therefore, this section discusses any potential inconsistencies of the proposed project with the AQMP. The purpose of this discussion is to set forth the issues regarding consistency with the assumptions and objectives of the AQMP and discuss whether the proposed project would interfere with the region's ability to comply with federal and State air quality standards. If the decision -makers determine that the proposed project is inconsistent, the lead agency may consider project modifications or inclusion of mitigation to eliminate the inconsistency. The SCAQMD CEQA Handbook states that, New or amended General Plan Elements (including land use zoning and density amendments), Specific Plans, and significant projects must be analyzed for consistency with the AQMP. Strict consistency with all aspects of the plan is usually not required A proposed project should be considered to be consistent with the AQMP if it furthers one or more policies and does not obstruct other policies. The SCAQMD CEQA Handbook identifies two key indicators of consistency: La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-20 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY 1. Whether the project will result in an increase in the frequency or severity of existing air quality violations or cause or contribute to new violations, or delay timely attainment of air quality standards or the interim emission reductions specified in the AQMP. 2. Whether the project will exceed the assumptions in the AQMP in 2012 or increments based on the year of project build -out and phase. Criterion 1 - Increase in the Frequency or Severity of Violations Based on the air quality modeling analysis completed for the project, short-term construction impacts will not result in significant impacts based on the SCAQMD regional and local thresholds of significance. The Air Analysis also found that, even with mitigation, long-term operations impacts will result in significant and unavoidable impacts based on the SCAQMD regional and local thresholds of significance. Therefore, the proposed project is projected to contribute to the exceedance of air pollutant concentration standards and is found to be inconsistent with the AQMP for the first criterion. Criterion 2 - Exceed Assumptions in the AQMP Consistency with the AQMP assumptions is determined by performing an analysis of the proposed project with the assumptions in the AQMP. The emphasis of this criterion is to ensure that the analyses conducted for the proposed project are based on the same forecasts as the AQMP. The 2012-2035 Regional Transportation/Sustainable Communities Strategy, prepared by SCAG, 2012, consists of three sections: Core Chapters, Ancillary Chapters, and Bridge Chapters. The Growth Management, Regional Mobility, Air Quality, Water Quality, and Hazardous Waste Management chapters constitute the Core Chapters of the document. These chapters currently respond directly to federal and State requirements placed on SCAG. Local governments are required to use these as the basis of their plans for purposes of consistency with applicable regional plans under CEQA. For this project, the City Land Use Plan defines the assumptions that are represented in the AQMP. The Village Build -out Plan project area is currently designated as Village Commercial (land uses within the Village Commercial designation include commercial, professional office, and residential uses), Neighborhood Commercial (Shopping Center), Major Community Facilities (Civic Center), and Parks and Recreation (La Quinta Community Park) in the General Plan. The Village is a mixed use project, with retail and residential uses. As it is consistent with the General Plan land use designations and with City Policy AQ -1.1 in assuring compliance with SCAQMD air quality standards, the Village Build- out Plan is not anticipated to exceed the emissions that are the basis for the AQMP assumptions for the Village area, and is found to be consistent with the AQMP for the second criterion. However, based on the failure of Criterion 1 above, the Village Build -out Plan will result in an inconsistency with the SCAQMD AQMP. Therefore, a significant impact will potentially occur. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-21 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY b -c. Violate an Air Quality Standard and Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non -attainment Short Term Construction Construction activities associated with the proposed project would have the potential to generate air emissions, toxic air contaminant emissions, and odor impacts. Assumptions for the duration of construction of the proposed project were based on an Interim Year of 2021 and a Build -out Year of 2035. The construction activities in the Village are anticipated to include: site demolition of approximately 511,456 square feet, grading of approximately 50.94 acres, building construction of an additional 1,230 multi -family attached residential dwelling units and approximately 800,000 square feet of specialty retail uses, paving of approximately 2.55 acres (approximately five percent of the total site acreage) for on-site roadways and parking, and application of architectural coatings. The Village Build -out Plan is anticipated to start construction no sooner than Spring 2017 and be completed in the beginning of 2035. Construction -Related Regional Impacts The construction -related regional air quality impacts were analyzed for criteria pollutants. Typical emission rates from construction activities were obtained from CalEEMod Version 2013.2.2 CalEEMod is a computer model published by the SCAQMD for estimating air pollutant emissions. The CalEEMod program uses the EMFAC2011 computer program to calculate the emission rates specific for the eastern portion of Riverside County for construction -related employee vehicle trips and the OFFROAD2011 computer program to calculate emission rates for heavy truck operations. EMFAC2011 and OFFROAD2011 are computer programs generated by CARB that calculates composite emission rates for vehicles. Emission rates are reported by the program in grams per trip and grams per mile or grams per running hour. Using CaIEEMod, the peak daily air pollutant emissions during each phase were calculated and are presented below in Table 5.2-5, Regional Construction - Related Pollutant Emissions. These emissions represent the highest level of emissions for each of the construction phases in terms of air pollutant emissions with implementation of SCAMD Rules, per Mitigation Measure AQ -1. The construction emissions printouts from CaIEEMod are provided in Appendix B of the Air Quality and Global Climate Change Analysis (Appendix B). Projects in the Village Build -out Plan project area will be required to comply with existing SCAQMD rules for the reduction of fugitive dust emissions and in turn, will maintain consistency with City Program AQ -1.5.a in assuring that all ground disturbing activities adhere to established fugitive dust criteria. SCAQMD Rules 403 and 403.1 establish procedures and compliance with these rules and are achieved through application of standard best management practices in construction and operation activities, such as application of water or chemical stabilizers to disturbed soils, managing haul road dust by application of water, covering haul vehicles, restricting vehicle speeds on unpaved roads to La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-22 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY 15 mph, sweeping loose dirt from paved site access roadways, cessation of construction activity when winds exceed 25 mph and establishing a permanent and stabilizing ground cover on finished sites. In addition, any operator applying for a grading permit, or a building permit for an activity with a disturbed surface area of more than 5,000 square feet, may not initiate any earth -moving operations unless a Fugitive Dust Control Plan has been prepared pursuant to the provisions of the Coachella Valley Fugitive Dust Control Handbook and approved by the City. It is anticipated that all development projects in the Village will prepare the required Fugitive Dust Control Plan. SCAQMD's Rule 403 and 403.1 minimum requirements require that the best available dust control measures are used for all grading operations and include the application of water or other soil stabilizers in sufficient quantity to prevent the generation of visible dust plumes. Compliance with Rules 403 and 403.1 would require the use of water trucks during all phases where earth moving operations would occur. The phases of the construction activities which have been analyzed below are: 1) demolition, 2) grading, 3) building construction, 4) paving, and 5) application of architectural coatings. The timing and construction equipment used are available in Appendix B of the Air Quality and Global Climate Change Analysis (Appendix B). Project Impacts The construction -related pollutant emissions are shown below in Table 5.2-5, Regional Construction - Related Pollutant Emissions. Table 5.2-5 shows that none of the analyzed pollutants would exceed the regional emissions thresholds. Therefore, a less than significant regional air quality impact would occur from construction of the proposed project. Construction -Related Toxic Air Contaminant Impacts The greatest potential for toxic air contaminant emissions would be related to diesel particulate emissions associated with heavy equipment operations during construction of the proposed project. According to SCAQMD methodology, health effects from carcinogenic air toxics are usually described in terms of "individual cancer risk." "Individual Cancer Risk" is the likelihood that a person exposed to concentrations of TACs over a 70 year lifetime will contract cancer, based on the use of standard risk -assessment methodology. Given the relatively limited number of heavy-duty construction equipment, the extended build out period and the short-term construction schedule, the Village Build -out Plan would not result in a long-term (i.e., 70 years) substantial source of TAC emissions and corresponding individual cancer risk. Participation in monitoring, managing and enforcing SCAQMD'S rules in regard to TAC emissions would assure the Village's consistency with City Program AQ -1.1.a. Therefore, no significant short-term TAC impacts are anticipated to occur during construction in the Village Build -out Plan project area. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-23 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Table 5.2-5 Regional Construction -Related Pollutant Emissions Source: Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 7, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 Notes: 1. On-site emissions from equipment operated on-site that is not operated on public roads. 2. Off-site emissions from equipment operated on public roads. 3. Construction phase, paving phase and painting phase may overlap. Long Term Operation On-going operation of new and redeveloped land uses within the Village would result in a long-term increase in air quality emissions. This increase would be due to emissions from Village -generated vehicle trips and through operational emissions from on-going uses within the Village. The following section provides an analysis of potential long-term air quality impacts due to regional air quality and local air quality impacts. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-24 August 2016 Pollutant Emissions (pounds/day) Activity VOC NOx CO SO2 PM10 PM2.5 Demolition On -Site' 4.05 42.70 33.89 0.04 3.03 2.12 Off-Site2 0.23 2.36 3.32 0.01 0.37 0.14 Subtotal 4.28 45.06 37.22 0.05 3.40 2.25 Grading On -Site' 5.29 59.53 42.31 0.06 5.47 3.89 Off-Site2 0.06 0.07 0.80 0.00 0.17 0.05 Subtotal 5.35 59.60 43.10 0.06 5.63 3.94 Building Construction On -Site' 2.35 20.97 17.12 0.03 1.29 1.21 Off-Site2 5.63 19.58 74.70 0.16 11.70 3.39 Subtotal 7.98 40.55 91.82 0.19 12.99 4.60 Paving On -Site' 1.38 6.98 15.52 0.03 0.32 0.32 Off-Site2 0.02 0.03 0.35 0.00 0.13 0.03 Subtotal 1.41 7.01 15.87 0.03 0.45 0.36 Architectural Coating On -Site' 39.79 0.86 1.80 0.00 0.02 0.02 Off-Site2 0.38 0.44 5.54 0.02 2.01 0.54 Subtotal 40.18 1.30 7.33 0.03 2.03 0.56 Total of Overlapping Phases' 49.56 48.85 115.03 0.25 15.47 5.52 SCAQMD Thresholds 75 100 550 150 150 55 Exceeds Thresholds? No No No No No No Source: Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 7, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 Notes: 1. On-site emissions from equipment operated on-site that is not operated on public roads. 2. Off-site emissions from equipment operated on public roads. 3. Construction phase, paving phase and painting phase may overlap. Long Term Operation On-going operation of new and redeveloped land uses within the Village would result in a long-term increase in air quality emissions. This increase would be due to emissions from Village -generated vehicle trips and through operational emissions from on-going uses within the Village. The following section provides an analysis of potential long-term air quality impacts due to regional air quality and local air quality impacts. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-24 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Operations -Related Regional Air Quality Impacts Criteria Pollutant Analysis The operations -related criteria air quality impacts created by implementation of the Village Build -out Plan have been analyzed through use of the CaIEEMod model. The operating emissions were based on the year 2035, the Village's proposed buildout year. The operations daily emissions printouts from the CaIEEMod model are provided in Appendix B of the Air Quality and Global Climate Change Analysis. The CaIEEMod model analyzes operational emissions from mobile sources, area sources, and energy usage, which are discussed below. Mobile Sources Mobile sources include emissions from the additional vehicle miles generated from the Village Build- out Plan. Vehicle trips associated with the Village were obtained from the project's Traffic Impact Analysis (Appendix F). Reductions of 13 percent were taken for internal capture resulting in a trip generation rate of 38.56 trips per thousand square feet for retail uses and 5.77 trips per dwelling unit for residential uses. For detail, refer to CaIEEMod output comments sections in Appendix B of the Air Quality and Global Climate Change Analysis (Appendix B). Area Sources Area sources include emissions from hearths, consumer products, landscape equipment and architectural coatings. Landscape maintenance includes fuel combustion emissions from equipment such as lawn mowers, rototillers, shredders/grinders, blowers, trimmers, chain saws, and hedge trimmers, as well as air compressors, generators, and pumps. As specifics were not known about the landscaping equipment fleet, CaIEEMod defaults were used to estimate emissions from landscaping equipment. Per SCAQMD Rule 1113, as amended on June 3, 2011, the architectural coatings that would be applied after January 1, 2014 will be limited to an average of 50 grams per liter or less and the CaIEEMod model default VOC emissions have been adjusted accordingly. Also, in order to account for SCAQMD Rule 445, no wood burning stoves or fireplaces will be allowed, and the CaIEEMod defaults for such have been adjusted accordingly. No other changes were made to the default area source parameters. Energy Usage Energy usage includes emissions from the generation of electricity and natural gas used on-site. 2013 Title 24 residential standards are at least 25 percent more efficient than 2008 Title 24 Standards (used as baseline in CaIEEMod). Since long-term operational emissions are anticipated to exceed AQMP thresholds, Energy Star appliances are to be used on-site per Mitigation Measure AQ -2 and high efficiency lighting that is at least 10 percent more efficient than that required by Title 24 is to be used per Mitigation Measure AQ -3. No other changes were made to the default energy usage parameters. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-25 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Village Build -out Plan Impacts The worst-case summer or winter VOC, NO,,, CO, S02, PM1o, and PM2.5 emissions created from the Village's long-term operations have been calculated and are summarized below in Table 5.2-6, Unmitigated Regional Operational Pollutant Emissions. The data provided in Table 5.2-6 shows that for the on-going operations activities within the Village, VOC, NO,, and CO emissions would exceed the SCAQMD regional thresholds of significance. Therefore, mitigation is required to reduce impacts from VOC, NOx, and CO emissions. Mitigation Measures AQ -2 through AQ -9 are provided to reduce the operational emissions. The mitigated operational regional criteria pollutant emissions are shown below in Table 5.2-7, Mitigated Regional Operational Pollutant Emissions. Table 5.2-7 shows that even with incorporation of the aforementioned mitigation measures, VOC, NOx, and CO would still exceed the regional emissions thresholds (for detailed notes, see CalEEMod output in Appendix B of the Air Quality and Global Climate Change Analysis). Therefore, a potentially significant and unavoidable regional air quality impact would occur from operation of the Village Build -out Plan. Table 5.2-6 Unmitigated Regional Operational Pollutant Emissions Activity Pollutant Emissions (pounds/day) VOc NOx c0 SO2 PM10 PM2.5 Area Sources' 62.93 1.17 101.32 0.01 2.05 2.03 Energy Usage 0.55 4.76 2.23 0.03 0.38 0.38 Mobile Sources3 74.20 130.27 759.37 1.94 123.84 35.29 Total Emissions 137.68 136.20 862.92 1.97 126.27 37.70 SCAQMD Thresholds 75 100 550 150 150 55 Exceeds Threshold? I Yes Yes Yes No No No Source: Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 10, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 Notes: 1. Area sources consist of emissions from consumer products, architectural coatings, and landscaping equipment. 2. Energy usage consists of emissions from generation of electricity and on-site natural gas usage. 3. Mobile sources consist of emissions from vehicles and road dust. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-26 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Table 5.2-7 Mitigated Regional Operational Pollutant Emissions Activity Pollutant Emissions (pounds/day) voc NOx c0 SO2 PM10 PM2.5 Area Sources' 53.62 1.17 101.32 0.01 2.05 2.03 Energy Usage 0.44 3.78 1.77 0.02 0.30 0.30 Mobile Sources3 69.69 97.95 651.33 1.19 73.28 21.00 Total Emissions 123.75 102.90 754.42 1.22 1 75.63 23.34 SCAQM D Thresholds 75 100 550 150 150 55 Exceeds Threshold? Yes Yes Yes No No No Source: Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 11,Kunzman Associates, March 2016 Notes: 1. Area sources consist of emissions from consumer products, architectural coatings, and landscaping equipment. 2. Energy usage consists of emissions from generation of electricity and on-site natural gas usage. 3. Mobile sources consist of emissions from vehicles and road dust. d. Expose Sensitive Receptors to Substantial Pollutant Concentrations Local Air Quality Impacts from Construction Construction -related air emissions may have the potential to exceed the State and federal air quality standards in the project vicinity, even though these pollutant emissions may not be significant enough to create a regional impact to the Salton Sea portion of the South Coast Air Basin. The proposed project has been analyzed for the potential local air quality impacts created from: construction - related fugitive dust and diesel emissions; from toxic air contaminants; and from construction -related odor impacts. SCAQMD has published a Fact Sheet for Applying CaIEEMod to Localized Significance Thresholds (South Coast Air Quality Management District 2011b). CalEEMod calculates construction emissions based on the number of equipment hours and the maximum daily disturbance activity possible for each piece of equipment. In order to compare CaIEEMod reported emissions against the localized significance threshold lookup tables, the CEQA document should contain in its project design features or its mitigation measures the following parameters: 1. The off-road equipment list (including type of equipment, horsepower, and hours of operation) assumed for the day of construction activity with maximum emissions. 2. The maximum number of acres disturbed on the peak day. 3. Any emission control devices added onto off-road equipment. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-27 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY 4. Specific dust suppression techniques used on the day of construction activity with maximum emissions. The CalEEMod output in Appendix B of the Air Quality and Global Climate Change Analysis (Appendix B) shows the equipment used for this analysis for each phase. As shown in Table 5.2-8, Maximum Number of Acres Disturbed Per Day, the maximum number of acres disturbed in a day would be five (5) acres. The local air quality emissions from construction were analyzed using the SCAQMD's Mass Rate LST Look -up Tables and the methodology described in Localized Significance Threshold Methodology, prepared by SCAQMD, revised July 2008. The Look -up Tables were developed by the SCAQMD in order to determine if the daily emissions of CO, NOX, PM1o, and PM2.5 from the proposed Village Build- out Plan could result in a significant impact to local air quality. The emission thresholds were calculated based on the Coachella Valley SRA 30 and a disturbance of five acres per day. According to LST Methodology, any receptor located closer than 25 meters (82 feet) shall be based on the 25 meter thresholds. The nearest sensitive receptors are the existing residential, school, and park uses located within the Village Build -out boundary. Additionally, future residential units that are developed and inhabited early -on in the Build -out Plan could be affected by air quality impacts associated with additional development and redevelopment. Therefore, the SCAQMD Look -up Tables for 25 meters was used. Table 5.2-9, Local Construction Emissions at the Nearest Receptors, shows the on-site emissions from the CalEEMod model and the LST emissions thresholds. Table 5.2-8 Maximum Number of Acres Distributed Per Day Activity Equipment Number Acres/81hr-day Total Acres Demolition Rubber Tired Dozers 2 0.5 1 Excavators 3 0.5 1.5 Total per phase - - 2.5 Activity Equipment Number Acres/81hr-day Total Acres Site Grading Graders 1 0.5 0.5 Rubber Tired Dozers 1 0.5 0.5 Scrapers 2 1 2 Excavators 2 0.5 1 Tractors/Loaders/Backhoes 2 0.5 1 Total per phase - - 5 Source: Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 8, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-28 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Table 5.2-9 Local Construction Emissions at the Nearest Receptors Construction Phase NOx On -Site Pollutant Emissions (pounds/day) CO PM10 PM2.5 Demolition 42.70 33.89 3.03 2.12 Grading 59.53 0.80 0.17 0.05 Building Construction 20.97 17.12 1.29 1.21 Paving 6.98 15.52 0.32 0.32 Architectural Coating 0.86 1.80 0.02 0.02 Total 131.04 69.13 4.83 3.72 SCAQMD Thresholds' 304 2,292 14 8 Exceeds Threshold? No No No No Phase II Construction Phase NOx On -Site Pollutant Emissions (pounds/day) CO PM10 PM2.5 Grading 74.81 49.14 6.08 4.60 Building Construction 28.51 18.51 1.97 1.85 Paving 20.30 14.73 1.14 1.05 Architectural Coating 2.19 1.87 0.17 0.17 Total 1 125.81 84.25 9.36 7.67 SCAQMD Thresholds3 304 2,292 14 8 Exceeds Threshold? No No No No Source: Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 9, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 The data provided in Table 5.2-9 shows that none of the analyzed pollutants would exceed the SCAQMD LST emissions thresholds at the nearest sensitive receptors, with implementation of Mitigation Measure AQ -1. In turn, the project maintains consistency with City Policy AQ -1.4 in assuring protection to sensitive receptors from pollutant sources. Therefore, a less than significant local air quality impact would occur to sensitive receptors within the Village Build -out Plan. Localized Air Quality Impacts from On -Site Operations Project -related air emissions may have the potential to exceed the State and federal air quality standards in the project vicinity, even though these pollutant emissions may not be significant enough to create a regional impact to the Salton Sea portion of the South Coast Air Basin. The Village Build- out Plan has been analyzed for the potential local CO emission impacts from project -generated vehicular trips and from the potential local air quality impacts from on-site operations. The Village Build -out Plan involves the construction of residential and retail uses. The long-term emissions, as discussed previously, are primarily in the form of mobile source emissions and consumer products. According to SCAQMD LST methodology, LSTs would apply to the operational phase of a project if the project includes stationary sources, or attracts mobile sources that may spend long periods queuing and idling at the site; such as warehouse/transfer facilities. Therefore, due to the lack of stationary source emissions, no long-term LST analysis is warranted. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-29 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY Local CO Emission Impacts from Project -Generated Vehicular Trips CO is the pollutant of major concern along roadways because the most notable source of CO is motor vehicles. For this reason, CO concentrations are usually indicative of the local air quality generated by a roadway network and are used as an indicator of potential local air quality impacts. Local air quality impacts can be assessed by comparing future without and with project CO levels to the State and federal CO standards which were presented in above in Section V of the Air Quality and Global Climate Change Analysis (Appendix B). To determine if the Village Build -out Plan could cause emission levels in excess of the CO standards, a sensitivity analysis is typically conducted to determine the potential for CO "hot spots" at a number of intersections in the general project vicinity. Because of reduced speeds and vehicle queuing, "hot spots" potentially can occur at high traffic volume intersections with a Level of Service E or worse. The project's Traffic Impact Analysis showed that build -out the project would generate a maximum of 37,964 trips per day. The intersection with the highest peak hour traffic volume is located at Washington Street and Avenue 48 and has a PM peak hour volume of 2,475 trips for the build -out year with Village project scenario. The 1992 Federal Attainment Plan for Carbon Monoxide (1992 CO Plan) showed that an intersection which has a daily traffic volume of approximately 100,000 vehicles per day would not violate the CO standard. Therefore as the intersection with the highest traffic volume falls far short of 100,000 vehicles, no CO "hot spot" modeling was performed and no significant long-term air quality impact is anticipated to local air quality with the on-going operation of the Village Build -out Plan. e. Objectionable Odors SCAQMD recommends that odor impacts be addressed in a qualitative manner. Such an analysis should determine whether the project would result in excessive nuisance odors, as defined under the California Code of Regulations and Section 41700 of the California Health and Safety Code, and thus would constitute a public nuisance related to air quality. Land uses typically considered to be associated with odors include wastewater treatment facilities, waste -disposal facilities, or agricultural operations. The Build -out Plan does not contain land uses typically associated with emitting objectionable odors. Diesel exhaust and VOCs would be emitted during construction development within the Village, which are objectionable to some; however, emissions would disperse rapidly from the Village Build -out area and therefore should not reach an objectionable level at the nearest sensitive receptors. 5.2.5 Cumulative Impacts Cumulative projects include local development as well as general growth within the Village Build -out area. However, as with most development, the greatest source of emissions is from mobile sources, La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-30 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY which travel well out of the local area. Therefore, from an air quality standpoint, the cumulative analysis would extend beyond any local projects, and when wind patterns are considered, would cover an even larger area. Accordingly, the cumulative analysis for the Village's air quality must be generic by nature. The project area is out of attainment for both ozone and particulate matter (PM1o). Construction and operation of cumulative projects will further degrade the local air quality, as well as the air quality of the Salton Sea portion of the South Coast Air Basin. The greatest cumulative impact on air quality will be the incremental addition of pollutants mainly from increased traffic from residential and commercial development, and the use of heavy equipment and trucks associated with the construction of these projects. Air quality will be temporarily degraded during construction activities that occur separately or simultaneously. In accordance with the SCAQMD methodology, projects that do not exceed the SCAQMD criteria or can be mitigated to less than criteria levels are not significant and do not add to the overall cumulative impact. However, the Air Quality Analysis also found that, even with mitigation, long-term operation of the proposed project is projected to contribute to the exceedance of air pollutant concentration standards and is found to be inconsistent with the AQMP for the first criterion. As it is consistent with the General Plan land use designations and with City Policy AQ -1.1 in assuring compliance with SCAQMD air quality standards, the Village Build -out Plan is not anticipated to exceed the emissions that are the basis for the AQMP assumptions for the Village area, and is found to be consistent with the AQMP for the second criterion. However, based on the failure of Criterion 1 above, the Village Build -out Plan will result in an inconsistency with the SCAQMD AQMP, resulting in a significant and unavoidable cumulative impact. 5.2.6 Mitigation Measures Construction Measures AQ -1 All development projects in the project area must adhere to SCAQMD Rules (see Section 5.2, Air Quality pp. 5.2-6 through 5.2-10 for a list of the applicable rules), for the control of fugitive dust, for the maintenance of construction vehicles and equipment, and for the use of reduced VOC asphalt, architectural coatings and solvents. Operational Measures AQ -2 Project applicants shall require that ENERGY STAR -compliant appliances are installed where appliances are required on-site. AQ -3 Project applicants shall include high -efficiency lighting that is at least 10 percent more efficient than standard lighting. AQ -4 The City shall ensure compliance with SCAQMD Rule 1186 (limits fugitive dust on paved and unpaved roads and sets certification protocols and requirements for street sweepers) La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-31 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY and 2202 (provides employers of 250 or more employees with a menu of options to reduce mobile source emissions generated by employee commutes), during long term operations in the Village. AQ -5 Project applicants shall provide sidewalks within each project boundary and along off-site roadway improvements. AQ -6 All project applicants shall ensure that new and/or remodeled buildings meet or exceed California Building Code Energy Efficiency Standards. AQ -7 All project applicants shall require that all faucets, toilets and showers installed in proposed structures utilize low -flow fixtures that would reduce indoor water demand by 20 percent per CalGreen Standards or more stringent standards if in place at the time development occurs. AQ -8 Project applicants shall implement recycling programs that reduce waste to landfills by a minimum of 75 percent or more stringent standards if in place at the time development occurs. AQ -9 To the extent feasible, project applicants shall use paints and coatings with a VOC content lower than SCAQMD Rule 1113 requires or more stringent standards if in place at the time development occurs, for application to surfaces of residential dwelling units and commercial units within project boundaries. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting A. Building and landscape plans shall be reviewed for energy efficiency and soil stabilization. Landscapers and landscape -related businesses shall be required to show proof of completion of the CVAG' Landscaper Certification Source. Responsible Parties: Public Works, Engineering, Planning Division, and Building Department. B. A report of air quality complaints and identified problems shall be provided in the annual review of the General Plan. Responsible Parties: Public Works, Code Compliance and Planning Division, and SCAQMD. C. The City shall conduct review and prepare conditions of approval for all grading and development permits, as well as required dust control plans to assure that appropriate methods and technologies are in place to minimize the emissions of pollutants from the development activities. Responsible Parties: Public Works, Engineering, Planning Division, and Building Department. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-32 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY 5.2.7 Level of Significance after Mitigation The Air Quality analysis found that at the local level, within the project area, construction -related air quality impacts could be reduced to less than significant levels, through compliance with SCAQMD rules for the control of fugitive dust, for the maintenance of construction vehicles and equipment, and for the use of reduced VOC paints and solvents. However, despite implementation of mitigation measures for air emissions, significant unavoidable impacts will occur in regard to the project's contribution to the exceedance of air pollutant concentration (Criterion 1) and in exceedance with regional emissions thresholds during long term operation of land uses in the Village. The La Quinta General Plan 2035 Program EIR evaluated future conditions 20 years from now as the City builds out with a variety of residential and non-residential land uses. The Program EIR evaluated this scenario which included the Village area, although the Build -out Plan identifies a greater density and intensity of land uses in the Village than what was evaluated in the Program EIR. Still, the findings of the Program EIR were that air pollutants would be generated from a variety of activities, including vehicle emissions, and daily operations. Emissions generated by vehicular traffic are projected to be the greatest source of air pollutants. The use of natural gas and electricity for operation of existing and new buildings and structures will also result in the emission of air pollutants. A Statement of Overriding Considerations was adopted with the adoption of the General Plan. Overriding considerations 3 and 4 specifically apply to Air Quality as follows: 3. Impacts identified as significant are generally associated with normal growth and progress and would be much more severe without implementation of the proposed General Plan update. 4. Implementation of the General Plan update will further enhance the quality of life necessary to attract new residents, businesses and visitors to the City, and will generally promote increased investment and development, jobs associated with new and/or expanded construction, and the provision of public services and facilities for a larger population base, and further economic development within the City. The La Quinta Village EIR will utilize these overriding conditions from the General Plan EIR. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-33 August 2016 5.2 AIR QUALITY This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR Page 5.2-34 August 2016 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 5.3 Biological Resources 5.3.1 Introduction This section discusses the biological resources in the La Quinta Village area, and assesses impacts on these resources from future growth and development brought on by the La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan. It also provides mitigation measures to reduce impacts to important biological resources. Sources used in the preparation are included in Chapter 9, References. 5.3.2 Existing Conditions The following discussion is based on the findings of the Biological Resources Study prepared by AMEC Earth and Environmental for the La Quinta General Plan Update 2035. This Report is included as Appendix C of the La Quinta General Plan EIR. Environmental Setting The City of La Quinta is located in a natural environment that displays substantial variation, including elevations ranging from 190 feet below sea level southeast of the City, to over 1,700 feet above sea level in the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Most of the City occurs on the Valley floor with a pocket of development referred to as the La Quinta Cove that reaches into the lower elevations of the foothills. The region is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters, with a monsoon condition occurring in mid to late summer. This condition often results in intense thunderstorms that can result in several inches of rain falling in a short period of time (hours), often resulting in flash flooding. Soil types and the natural habitats that can be supported in the City are affected by these conditions. Indio Very Fine Sandy Loam, Indio Fine Sandy Loam, Myoma Fine Sand, Gilman Fine Sandy Loam are all present throughout the City. These are fine soils that allow rapid permeability and are made up of both alluvial material associated with flooding, and lacustrine deposits associated with both the historic and ancient Lake Cahuilla. There are no naturally occurring habitats within the La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan area as most of the area is urban and built up. There are vacant lots sporadically throughout the project area that could allow for some natural habitat to re-establish, but most of the vacant sites have been cleared and graded. Vegetation that does occur is primarily comprised of non-native ornamental plants introduced by developers and homeowners, similar to surrounding development in the City. Natural Communities Several natural vegetation communities, such as Stabilized Shielded Sand Fields, Sonoran Creosote Bush Scrub, Sonoran Mixed Woody and Succulent Scrub, Desert Drywash Woodland, and Desert Saltbush Scrub occur within the City of La Quinta, but are not located within the Village area. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-1 August 2016 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Common Species There are primarily two categories of habitat associated with wildlife common to the City of La Quinta. The most prevalent consists of the very disturbed and fragmented patchwork of remnant sand fields, saltbush scrub, weedy (ruderal), agricultural, and residential/recreational development. Such properties occur in the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area. Common species in this environment are those that are capable of surviving in ruderal plant communities or near residential, commercial, agricultural, and golf course developments. Another habitat category is comprised of native, less altered habitats where the Santa Rosas and associated alluvial fans and canyons overlap in the western and southern portions of the City. These habitats are not present within the La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan project area due to urban development. The City of La Quinta is also home to or is utilized by a wide variety of common bird species. Non- resident bird species may migrate through the area or utilize it for breeding or nesting only. Certain species nest elsewhere but over -winter in the City, while others species permanently reside in La Quinta. Verdin, Abert's Towhee, Black -Tailed Gnatcatcher, Gambel's Quail, Mourning Dove and Ladder -Backed Woodpecker use Desert Dry Wash Woodlands and wash habitats containing mixed shrub and tree habitat that provides primary nesting habitat. Other nesting sites include shrubs, ground surfaces and animal burrows within Creosote Bush, Saltbush and Woody Scrub communities. Landscaping within residential and/or recreational areas, as well as agricultural plantings, especially date palm groves, also provide suitable nesting habitat. Raptors and common Ravens utilize cliff faces, rock outcrops and hillsides located in mountainous areas which are not found within the La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan project area. Black -Throated Sparrow, Horned Lark, Loggerhead Shrike and Say's Phoebe characteristically utilize creosote bush, saltbush, and ruderal scrub communities within the City. A variety of songbird species use both desert riparian and scrub habitats in the winter months only; these include the Yellow-Rumped Warbler, White - Crowned Sparrow, Blue -Gray Gnatcatcher and Ruby -Crowned Kinglet. These and other common species are not designated species of concern, however, most of them are protected by the provisions of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). The MBTA prohibits disturbing nests, eggs, and incubating birds, and hatchling and fledgling birds during active nesting. All native breeding birds, (except game birds) regardless of their listing status, are protected under the MBTA. Potential impacts to breeding birds are considered significant under CEQA. Since nesting birds may occur on sites within the La Quinta Build -Out Plan project area containing trees, it is important that future projects containing suitable nesting bird habitats comply with the MBTA and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Code of Regulations 3500 and 3800 which protect nesting birds. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-2 August 2016 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Numerous larger common mammal species are found in the project area, such as the Black -Tailed Jackrabbit, Desert Cottontail, Striped Skunk, Northern Raccoon, Kit Fox, and Coyote. Smaller mammals include Pocket Mice, Cactus Mouse, Kangaroo Rats, Desert Woodrat, White -Tailed Antelope Squirrel, and California Ground Squirrel. Many of these non -special status species utilize a variety of habitat types within the City. Special Status Species Species which are considered threatened or endangered under either the California or federal Endangered Species Acts are called special status species. The US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), CDFG, and the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) all maintain lists of these species. Table 5.3-1, Special Status Species provides a list of special status species known to occur in the City or its Sphere of Influence. In addition to these species, habitat has been modeled for Coachella Valley Milk Vetch, Desert Tortoise and Palm Springs Pocket Mouse, although these species have not been observed in the City or its Sphere of Influence. Exhibit 5.3-1, Critical Habitat and Modeled Habitat, shows that no Special Status Species are located within the Village Build -out Plan project area. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-3 August 2016 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-4 August 2016 Legend AM EC Burrowing Owls Sighbngs'03 n' - y ¢! Prairie Falcon Black -Tailed Gnatcher �P Cal ifom!a 0itaxis Glandular 0itaxis d_nyj; ® Peninsular Big Horned Sheep Critical Habitat Palm Springs Pocket Mouse Modeled Habitat Former Modeled Habitat C. V Giant Sand Treader Cricket & C. V Fringe -Toed Lizard Modeled Habitat e r, .• Former Modeled Habitat C3City Limits Village Build -Out Area • � + ` i` � 0 Sphere of Influence 0 02 0.4 ri-B Mims �r - � .� • 1 r [rye r .._ ' - � - �-"'`4.]�--•fir ��"� _ I. 1 t3 i i �` r - �r- a �• J!� WIN p. I - � ��I• ��*� • wy -TTre ire;+51'o.n hale Ca[Oe[nuedeO Mph all•J�ean6rewGn�Ult - •y _r f� } N ra oN i�tO Mr ya wilts 4M�L FieJ=cl NumBx'3YX]C059 w rrl r=' TTif rrapry+nn Even [adNetl LyelkanMdlaM 6YrvCyGr,ly �ei� errierx ryrywiluu�'xai�+niLen �I miY x}A �Speer.ea wlbHky. /Ireil c+�0lm•++�e4oevty rn �anyu 1tlw�vorunln4xr�duw + �'__ ' rc.s.i S Source: La Quinta General Plan 2035 EIR, Figure III -2 The Altum Group Critical Habitat and Modeled Habitat La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5.3-1 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-6 August 2016 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Table 5.3-1 Special Status Species Common Scientific State and Federal On -Site Name Name Habitat Local Status Status in 20131 Chaparral Sand- Abronia villosa Sandy areas; Chaparral/ CNPS List 1B.1 No Verbena var. aurita Desertdunes State: S2.1 Glandular Ditaxis Ditaxisclaryana Sandy habitats Sonoran Desert CNPS List 2.2 No scrub 0---465 meters State: S1S2 California Ditaxis Ditaxisserrata Sonoran Desert Scrub CNPS List 3.2 No var. californica State: S2.2 Flat -tailed Horned Phyrnosoma Sandy habitats with adjacent State: S2 No Lizard mcallii hardpan, often sparsely CDFW: CSC vegetated, also saltbush CVMSHCP habitats Coachella Valley Umainornata Sand dunes, sand fields State: S1 Threatened No Fringe -toed Lizard CDFW: Endangered CVMSHCP Burrowing Owl Athene Burrows/abandoned State: S2 No cunicularia Foundation structures, CDFW: CSC Creosote Bush & Ruderal CVMSHCP Scrub (edges of canals/agriculture) Prairie Falcon Falco mexicanus Cliff faces (nesting), Open State: S3 No habitats for foraging CDFW: Watch list Black -tailed Polioptila Desert scrub and desert wash State: S4 No Gnatcatcher melanura woodland habitats Loggerhead Lanius Fairly common in a variety of State: S4 No Shrike ludovicianus open habitats CDFW: CSC Western Yellow Lasiurus Primarily roosts in the dead State: S3 No Bat xanthinus/ego fronds of palms, including CDFW: CSC landscape specimens CVMSHCP Pocketed Free- Nyctinomops Variety of arid habitats Desert State: S2S3 No tailed Bat femorosaccus Scrub, Palm Oasis, Desert CDFW: CSC Wash, roosts in rocky cliffs Palm Springs Xerospermophil Desert Scrub, Desert Wash, State: S1S2 Candidate No Round -tailed us tereticaudus Alkali Scrub, CDFW: CSC Ground Squirrel chlorus & levees, golf course edges CVMSHCP w/ adjacent native habitat Peninsular Oviscanadensis Lower elevations of the CVMSHCP: Endangered No Bighorn Sheep nelsoni DPS eastern Peninsular Ranges, Threatened including canyon bottoms, alluvial fans, and mountain slopes Source: Table 111-3, 2035 La Quinta General Plan 2035 La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-7 August 2016 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Notes: State of California and Local Status: Endangered, Threatened, Protected, Special Concern status per the California Fish and Game Code of 2007, as well as all species protected by the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (species covered by plan listed as CVMSHCP). Federal Status: Endangered, Threatened and Candidate for listing status per the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (as amended). It is mandatory that federally listed plant species be fully considered during preparation of environmental documents pertaining to the California Environmental Quality Act or National Environmental Policy Act, or any federal authorization. California Native Plant Society listing rankings (CNPS 2010) are described as follows: List 1A: Plants (29) presumed extinct in California because they have not been seen or collected in the wild in California for many years. List 113: Plants considered rare and endangered in California and throughout their range. All of the plants constituting List 113 meet the definitions of Section 1901, Chapter 10 (Native Plant Protection Act) or Sections 2062 and 2067 (California Endangered Species Act) of the California Department of Fish and Game Code and are eligible for state listing. It is mandatory that these plant species be fully considered during preparation of environmental documents pertaining to CEQA. List 2: Plants considered rare, threatened or endangered in California but which are more common elsewhere. List 3: Plants about which more information is needed to assign them to one of the other lists. List 4: Plants of limited distribution (a "watch list") or infrequent throughout a broader area in California, their vulnerability to threat appears low at this time. Threat Rank • Seriously threatened in California (high degree/immediacy of threat) • Fairly threatened in California (moderate degree/immediacy of threat) • Not very threatened in California (low degree/immediacy of threat) State Ranks (Note: where two ranks are given (eg. S1 S2) the species' rank falls between the two ranks) S1: 5 or fewer viable occurrences or fewer than 1,000 individuals statewide and/or less than 2,000 acres S2: 6 — 20 viable occurrences or fewer than 3,000 individuals statewide and/or 2,000 —10,000 acres S3: 21-100 viable occurrences or fewer than 10,000 individuals statewide and/or 10,000 — 50,000 acres S4: Greater than 100 viable occurrences statewide and/or greater than 50,000 acres, apparently secure statewide SS: Community demonstrably secure statewide Threat Ranks • Very threatened • Threatened • No current threats known Habitat Protection Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan The Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP) is a joint regional planning effort of the USFWS, the CDFW, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), and the National Park Service (NPS), as well as Riverside County and most local jurisdictions within the Coachella Valley, including the City of La Quinta. The La Quinta Village Build - Out Plan project area is within the planning area for the CVMSHCP. A portion of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area lies within the City and Sphere, on lands west of the La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-8 August 2016 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES eastern edge of the Santa Rosa Mountains. The La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area is not within a conservation area, nor is it adjacent to a designated conservation area. Because the City of La Quinta is a signatory to the CVMSHCP, development projects outside conservation areas are required to pay the prescribed mitigation fee to offset the potential impacts of the development on the natural environment and ensure the future availability of funds to purchase regional conservation lands. Regulation of Streambeds and Watercourses There are numerous washes and Streambeds in the City and Sphere. In addition to the Whitewater River, there are several smaller, mostly unnamed streams that drain from the Santa Rosa Mountains. Streambeds and washes are subject to regulation by a variety of State and federal regulatory agencies. Where streambeds and washes qualify as waters of the State, they fall under the jurisdiction of CDFW. Water bodies determined to also be waters of the U.S. fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACOE). The Whitewater River, which is the primary ephemeral stream in the Coachella Valley, runs generally northwest to southeast through the Coachella Valley. East of Washington Street, the river is called the Coachella Valley Stormwater Channel. The Channel qualifies as both a Water of the State and a Water of the U.S. Therefore, construction activities that may affect the Channel require consultation with both CDFW and the USACOE, and permits must be secured from both agencies. The Whitewater River is not located within the project area. Smaller streams emanating from the Santa Rosa Mountains include Bear Creek enter the City at the south end of the Cove, and the La Quinta Evacuation Channel, which extends northeasterly from the Bear Creek Channel. Such drainages constitute waters of the State and are under the jurisdiction of the CDFW. The La Quinta Channel runs north of the project area, and serves to drain portions of the Village and Cover areas. 5.3.3 Applicable Goals and Policies GOAL BIO -1 The protection and preservation of native and environmentally significant biological resources and their habitats. Policy BI0-1.1 Continue to implement the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP). Program BI0-1.1.a: Building permits shall not be issued for projects required to pay the CVMSHCP local development mitigation fee until such time as the fee has been paid to the City. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-9 August 2016 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Policy BI0-1.2 Where appropriate, site-specific, species-specific surveys shall be required for the seven species not covered by the MSHCP. Policy BI0-1.4 Comply with the requirements of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBIA). Program BIO -1.4.a: Throughout the City, prior to the removal of vegetation on a development site between March and August, a qualified biologist shall determine whether any bird nests or young occur on the site, and if they occur, provide mitigation measures compliant with the MBTA. Policy BIO -1.6 Native Desert plant materials should be incorporated into new development projects to the greatest extent possible. Invasive, non-native species shall be discouraged. 5.3.4 Project Impacts The La Quinta Village Build -out Plan will facilitate development of vacant land and redevelopment of several existing properties. Implementation of the Plan will result in the infill of all currently vacant properties, as well as the intensification of uses on some currently underutilized properties. Thresholds of Significance The following standards and criteria for establishing the significance of potential impacts on biological resources were derived from the CEQA guidelines. Implementation of the proposed La Quinta Village Build -out Plan would have a significant impact on biological resources if it would: 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 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, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service. c. Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected 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. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-10 August 2016 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES e. Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting 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. a. Candidate, Sensitive, or Special Status Species Plant Communities There are no federal Threatened or Endangered plant species known to occur in the project area or in the vicinity surrounding the project area, as shown in Exhibit 5.3-1. Implementation of the Build- out Plan includes the development of several vacant lots within the project area, however, these lots contain only sparse ornamental vegetation and ruderal species because these sites have been cleared and graded in the past. General Plan Goal 1310-1 addresses the protection and preservation of native and environmentally significant biological resources and their habitats. Although there are no know native or environmentally significant species in the Village Build -out Plan project area, Policy 1.6 discourages the use of invasive or non-native plants that may be detrimental to native species. Certain ornamental vegetation that is drought tolerant is appropriate as identified in the La Quinta Municipal Code Chapter 8.13, Water Efficient Landscaping, which defines provisions for new and existing landscapes. Native desert plants are by nature water efficient and can be incorporated into new development projects as part of the landscape design. Invasive, non-native species are discouraged as they may be detrimental to the viability of native desert plants. The City will enforce its landscaping requirements on future projects within the Plan area. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Invertebrates, Reptiles and Amphibians Invertebrates, reptiles and amphibians that occur in the City will be impacted by increased urbanization. These species are especially vulnerable to crushing from grading and construction activities. The Coachella Valley Fringe -Toed Lizard is the only federal listed Threatened and State listed Endangered reptile species that is thought to occur in the City. As urban development has encroached, the sandy habitat that supports this species has become increasingly compromised through the construction of roads, buildings and fences and other barriers that disrupt the natural blow sand process. Because most of the Village Build -out Plan project area is urban and none of the vacant properties display any blowsand or sand dune features, the project area does not support habitat for the Coachella Valley Fringe -Toed Lizard. The species is a covered species under the CVMSHCP, which addresses impacts to this species through payment of fees and other measures. For future projects in the Village Build -out Plan project area, payment of fees would be the extent of an applicant's requirements regarding the species. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-11 August 2016 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Birds The Village Build -out Plan project area is urbanized and vacant properties have either been previously graded or disturbed by humans such that no habitat exists. Avian species that can tolerate human disturbance will likely continue to inhabit the project area, and may be attracted to newly landscaped areas. Burrowing owl is such a species. This species is covered by special survey requirements of the CVMSHCP and receives protection under California Fish and Game Code. In compliance with Mitigation Measure BIO -1, prior to development of currently vacant properties, an applicant must have a pre -construction survey performed to establish presence/absence of individuals. In addition, nesting birds are protected under the MBTA. Birds can usually escape harm's way during construction activities by flying away, but during nesting season, eggs and chicks are at risk during such activities. To avoid illegal take of nesting birds, construction activities should be conducted outside of nesting season, which is from February 1 through August 15. If timing restriction make it impossible to avoid construction activities during nesting season, developers must comply with Mitigation Measure BIO -2. Mitigation to ensure that pre -construction surveys are completed prior to land disturbance are included below in Section 5.3.5, Mitigation Measures. Implementation of mitigation measures would ensure that potential impacts to burrowing owls or other nesting migratory birds would be less than significant. Mammals Development activities may involve mass grading and clearing, resulting in the removal of vegetation and any wildlife species that may be occupying the site. A wide range of common and sensitive wildlife species occur in the City that may be affected by implementation of the Village Build -out Plan. For example, bats may roost in vacant buildings or untrimmed date palm trees, and these should be surveyed prior to disturbance. The direct and indirect impacts of continued development affect smaller mammals, including a variety of common and sensitive species. Grading and site preparation could crush burrows of some species such as the Palm Springs Round -Tailed Ground Squirrel, which is a candidate for Federal listing. However, as shown in Table 5.3-1, this species is not known to inhabit the project area. Therefore, development associated with the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan will have no impact on candidate, sensitive or special -status mammal species. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-12 August 2016 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES b. Riparian Habitat There is no riparian habitat within the project area as the area is an urban desert setting. Therefore, development associated with the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan will have no impact on riparian habitat. c. Federally Protected Wetlands There are no wetland features within the project area, as the area is located in an urban desert setting. Therefore, development associated with the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan will have no impact on federally protected wetlands. d. Movement of Native Wildlife Movement of native wildlife occurs to the south and west of the Village in the mountains and open desert. The project area is developed with urban uses and is surrounded by residences, commercial areas and golf courses. Therefore, development associated with the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan will have no impact on the movement of native wildlife. e. Conflict with Local Policies or Ordinances The City has no Policy or Ordinance related to special status species. Therefore, development associated with the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan will not conflict with local ordinances pertaining to special status species. f. Habitat Conservation Plan The Village Build -out Plan project area is within the planning area for the CVMSHCP, but is not within a designated conservation area. The closest CVMSHCP conservation area to the Village is the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountain Conservation Area, approximately 1,700 feet west of the Plan boundary. Because most of the Village Build -out Plan project area is urban and any vacant properties display signs of disturbance and minimal ruderal vegetation, it is unlikely that suitable habitat for species protected under the CVMSHCP is present within the Build -out Plan project area. Nonetheless, all development proposed within the Build -out Plan area will be required to pay a mitigation fee to ensure the future availability of funds to purchase conservation land and offset potential impacts of development on the natural environment. Payment of mitigation fees would be the extent of an applicant's requirements regarding impacts to species protected under the CVMSHCP. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. 5.3.5 Cumulative Impacts Impacts to special status species are cumulative, given other development that has or may be expected to take place in the Coachella Valley. It should be noted that these impacts are addressed in the CVMSHCP, which provides mitigation for incidental take resulting from individual La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-13 August 2016 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES development projects. Mitigation includes payment of per -acre mitigation fees for all new development within the CVMSHCP planning area. (See Mitigation Measure BIO -3) 5.3.6 Mitigation 13I0-1 Burrowing Owl. Prior to any land disturbance on currently vacant properties, an applicant shall have a biological survey conducted at the project site to determine presence/absence of the species. Results of the survey may determine whether focused surveys must be conducted. If the site survey determines the presence of burrowing owl, mitigation in accordance with the CDFW shall be implemented as follows: • If burrowing owls are identified as being resident on-site outside the breeding season (February 1 through August 31) they may be relocated to other sites by a permitted biologist (permitted by CDFW), as allowed in the CDFW Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation (March 2012). • If an active burrow is found during the breeding season, the burrow shall be treated as a nest site and temporary fencing shall be installed at a distance from the active burrow, to be determined by the biologist, to prevent disturbance during grading or construction. Installation and removal of the fencing shall be done with a biological monitor present. 13I0-2 Nesting Bird Surveys. Removal of any appropriate vegetation located on a project site shall be conducted outside of the avian nesting season (February through August). If construction must occur during the avian nesting season, a pre -construction nesting bird survey shall be conducted within seven days prior to any ground disturbing activities. If at any time birds are found to be nesting, construction activities within 250 feet of the nest must not occur until it is determined by a qualified biologist that the nest is no longer active. 13I0-3 CVMSHCP Mitigation Fee. New development projects are required to pay the mitigation fees; even those projects located in urban areas. The most current rates (2016) are as follows (but future developments may be subject to updated fees): Dwelling Units Fee 0-8 units $1,301 per unit 8-14 units $541 per unit 14 + units $239 per unit Non -Residential Commercial/industrial $5,809 per acre La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-14 August 2016 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting A. Prior to the issuance of building permits, the City shall require that all applicable biological resource mitigation actions, including payment of Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan mitigation fees by applicable projects, and compliance with applicable state and federal regulatory permits, shall be satisfied. Responsible Parties: Planning Division, Biologist, California Department of Fish and Game, California Regional Water Quality Control Board, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Project Developer/Consulting Biologist. 5.3.7 Level of Significance After Mitigation Payment of CVMSHCP mitigation fees and completion of surveys for avian species where required, including burrowing owls and nesting birds, will ensure that impacts to biological resources would be less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-15 August 2016 5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan EIR 5.3-16 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES 5.4 Cultural Resources 5.4.1 Introduction This section discusses the cultural resources that may be present in the La Quinta Village Build -out project area, and assesses impacts on these resources from future growth and development associated with implementation of the Build -Out Plan. This section of the EIR was prepared by Applied Earthworks, the firm that conducted the Historical Resources Survey for the Village Build- out Plan. Therefore, their results from their survey are directly incorporated into this section. Additional sources used in the preparation of this section are included in Chapter 9, References. A cultural resource is defined as any object or specific location of past human activity, occupation, or use, identifiable through historical documentation, inventory, or oral evidence. Cultural resources can be separated into three categories: archaeological, built environment, and traditional cultural resources. Archaeological resources include both historical and prehistoric remains of human activity. Historic - period resources can consist of historic structures, structural ruins (such as foundation remnants), and sites (such as artifact refuse deposits and artifact -filled features). Prehistoric resources can include lithic artifact or ceramic scatters, quarries, habitation sites, temporary camps/rock rings, ceremonial sites, and trails. Built -environment resources consist of standing historic buildings, structures, (such as monuments, canals, historic roads and trails, bridges, and ditches) and objects. A traditional cultural resource or property (TCP) can include Native American sacred sites (such as rock art sites and cemeteries) and traditional resources, such as gathering locations, which are important for maintaining the cultural traditions of any group. 5.4.2 Existing Conditions Environmental Setting A comprehensive history of the La Quinta area has been documented in an official context statement developed by the City. A brief historical context was also developed by CRM Tech for use in a Citywide Historical Resources Survey Update associated with the General Plan 2035, as reproduced here. In the present-day city of La Quinta, the earliest settlement and land development activities did not occur until the turn of the century. By then, most of the Cahuilla villages and rancherias noted in the mid -1850s had vanished, reflecting the decline of the Cahuilla's population and prosperity during the latter half of the 19th century. Instead, the cultural landscape in the eastern Coachella Valley La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-1 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES began to show unmistakable signs of Euroamerican influence, such as fences, irrigation ditches, and scattered farmsteads, along with various wagon roads and the Southern Pacific Railroad. Around 1900, a number of desert land claims and homestead claims were filed with the U.S. General Land Office (GLO) on various parcels in what is now the City of La Quinta. Although the majority of such early claims ended in failure, during the next few decades the GLO approved and patented 54 land grants to private claimants on properties in present-day La Quinta, including 26 homestead claims, 9 desert land claims, 3 railroad homestead claims, and 16 cash purchases. By the 1910s, several early ranches were in operation in La Quinta, most prominently the Manning Burkett Ranch, the John Marshall Ranch (later known as Hacienda del Gato), and the Point Happy Ranch. In 1926, La Quinta's growth was steered towards the budding resort industry in the Coachella Valley when Walter H. Morgan and his Desert Development Company began the construction of the La Quinta Hotel. Although this instantly popular and celebrated up -scale hostelry fell into receivership during the Great Depression, other developers, inspired by the success of nearby Palm Springs, continued to pursue and expand Morgan's vision of La Quinta as a resort town to rival its more famous neighbor to the west. In the early 1930s, E. S. "Harry" Kiener subdivided the Cove area in Sections 1, 12 and 13, T6S R6E, into residential lots, and began advertising the sale of completely furnished "weekend homes". The subdivision and development of the Cove area, in fact, marked the birth of La Quinta as a community. By 1941, the Cove area had essentially taken on its present shape. A large number of buildings had sprung up in the Cove, clustered predominantly in the northern half of the subdivision, north of today's Calle Chihuahua. Farther to the north, the La Quinta Hotel complex occupied a substantial portion of Section 36, T5S R6E. The rest of present-day La Quinta, lying between the Cove and the Southern Pacific Railroad, demonstrated a typical rural settlement pattern, with scattered ranch houses connected by roads that were laid out mostly along section or quarter -section lines, the most common property boundaries. Between the early 1940s and the mid-1950s, the number of buildings in the La Quinta area increased significantly, especially in the Cove area, as the entire Coachella Valley experienced rapid growth during the post-war years. In the meantime, the contrast between the different settlement patterns in the Cove area and the outlying rural area persisted, as it still does to some degree to the present day [Tang and Hogan 2006:5]. The City of La Quinta conducted two city-wide Historical Resources Surveys, which occurred in 1996-1997 and 2006; these two studies were updated in 2010 as part of the General Plan Update. From these studies, a total of 19 historic -age buildings have been identified within or immediately adjacent to the Village Build -Out Plan project area. These are presented in Table 5.4-1, Previously Identified Resources Within One City Block of the Village Build -out Plan Project Area. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-2 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Table 5.4-1 Previously Identified Resources Within One City Block of the Village Build -out Plan Project Area Address APN Description Year built Significance 51650 Avenida 770-182-003 Modern style 1941 6Z; not eligible Bermudas commercial building 51622 Avenida 773-145-006 Modern -style single- 1951 6Z; not eligible Navarro family dwelling 51592 Avenida 773-145-026 Ranch -style single- 1951 6Z; not eligible Navarro family dwelling 51116 Avenida 773-075-005 Ranch style single- 1957 6Z; not eligible Mendoza family dwelling 51412 Avenida 773-102-011 Ranch style single- 1957 6Z; not eligible Mendoza family dwelling 51371 Avenida 773-092-008 Modern -style single- 1958 6Z; not eligible Martinez family dwelling 51351 Avenida 773-103-007 Spanish Colonial 1935 5D1; eligible for local Navarro Revival single-family listing as a contributor to a dwelling thematic historic district 51411 Avenida 773-102-007 Spanish Colonial 1937 5D1; eligible for local Villa Revival/Pueblo style listing as a contributor to a single-family dwelling thematic historic district 51001 773-065-012 Spanish Colonial 1938 5D1; eligible for local Eisenhower Drive Revival single-family listing as a contributor to a dwelling thematic historic district 51453 Avenida 773-103-012 Spanish Colonial 1948 5D1; eligible for local Navarro Revival single-family listing as a contributor to a dwelling thematic historic district 51397 Avenida 773-103-009 Unidentified style 1949 5D1; eligible for local Navarro single-family listing as a contributor to a residence thematic historic district 51489 Avenida 773-092-012 Spanish -influenced 1949 5D1; eligible for local Martinez Ranch style single- listing as a contributor to a family dwelling thematic historic district 51383 Avenida 773-104-021 Ranch -style single- 1949 5D1; eligible for local Bermudas family dwelling listing as a contributor to a thematic historic district 51431 Avenida 773-103-011 Ranch -style single- 1950 5D1; eligible for local Navarro family dwelling listing as a contributor to a thematic historic district 51453 Avenida 773-092-009 Ranch -style multiple- 1950 5D1; eligible for local Martinez family dwelling listing as a contributor to a thematic historic district 78035-78039 770-152-004 Spanish Colonial 1936 5S1; individually eligible for Calle Estado Revival commercial local listing building La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-3 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Table 5.4-1 Previously Identified Resources Within One City Block of the Village Build -out Plan Project Area (Continued) Address APN Description Year built Significance 78023 Calle 770-152-001 Spanish Colonial 1930s 5S1; individually eligible for Estado Revival commercial local listing building 77885 Avenida 773-101-001 Spanish Colonial 1938 5S1; individually eligible for Montezuma Revival commercial local listing building 77895 Avenida 773-104-036 Monterey -style 1940 5S1; individually eligible for Montezuma commercial building I I local listing Source: Cultural Resources Technical Report for City of La Quinta General Plan (2010 Update), prepared by CRM Tech, July 8, 2010 Of the 19 historic age buildings, 13 have been identified by the City of La Quinta as historically significant properties, while the other six are considered not eligible for listing and hence require no further consideration. Nine of the 13 properties are single-family dwellings found eligible for local listing as contributors to the La Quinta Cove Thematic Historic District. This was based on their architectural styling, which is primarily Spanish Colonial Revival and/or Ranch, and their period of construction, which was between 1935 and 1950. These nine buildings are within the development period of the La Quinta Cove residential tract. The remaining four properties were found eligible for local listing based on their individual architectural merits, being original to the historical downtown commercial district. These four buildings are of Spanish Colonial or Monterey Revival -style architecture dating between 1936 and 1940. Regulatory Setting California Environmental Quality Act The Village Build -out Plan is subject to compliance with CEQA. Therefore, cultural resources management work conducted must comply with the CEQA Statutes and Guidelines, which directs lead agencies to first determine whether cultural resources are "historically significant." A project with an effect that may cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource is a project that may have a significant effect on the environment. Generally, a cultural resource shall be considered "historically significant" if the resource is 50 years old or older, possesses integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association, and meets the requirements for listing on the California Register of Historical Resources (CRHR) under any one of the following criteria: 1. Is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of California's history and cultural heritage; 2. Is associated with the lives of persons important in our past; La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-4 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES 3. 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, 4. Has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history. (Title 14 CCR, § 15064.5) Title 7 of the La Quinta Municipal Code The City of La Quinta passed a historic preservation ordinance in 1992 with the intent and purpose to effect the protection, enhancement, and perpetuation of historic resources, landmarks, and districts that represent or reflect elements of the City's diverse cultural, social, economic, political, and architectural history, and safeguard the City's historic heritage (City of La Quinta, Title 7.02.020). The ordinance provides for the establishment of a historic resource inventory. A historic resource may be considered for inclusion in the City's historic resource inventory based on one or more of the following criteria: A. It exemplifies or reflects special elements of the City's cultural, social, economic, political, aesthetic, engineering or architectural history; or B. It is identified with persons or events significant in local, state or national history; or C. It embodies distinctive characteristics of a style, type, period or method of construction, is a valuable example of the use of indigenous materials or craftsmanship or is representative of a notable work of an acclaimed builder, designer or architect; or D. It is an archaeological, paleontological, botanical, geological, topographical, ecological or geographical site which has the potential of yielding information of scientific value; or E. It is a geographically definable area possessing concentration of site, buildings, structures, improvements or objects linked historically through location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and/or association, in which the collective value of the improvements may be greater than the value of each individual improvement. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § 1 (part), 1992) The Village Build -out Plan is also subject to compliance with the City's historic preservation ordinance. The cited statutes and guidelines specify how cultural resources are to be managed in the context of projects, such as the Village Build -Out Plan. Briefly, archival and field surveys must be conducted, and identified cultural resources must be inventoried and evaluated in prescribed ways. Prehistoric and historical archaeological resources, as well as historical resources such as buildings, structures, and other built -environment features, deemed "historically significant" must be considered in project planning and development. As well, any proposed project that may impact "historically significant" cultural resources must be submitted to the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) for review and comment prior to project approval by the responsible agency and prior to construction, demolition, or other similar project impacts. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-5 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Assembly Bill 52 (AB 52) AB 52, which went into effect on July 1, 2015 requires a lead agency to consider a project's impacts on TCRs. TCRs as defined in Public Resources Code § 21074 are as follows: (a) "Tribal cultural resources" are either of the following: (1) Sites, features, places, cultural landscapes, sacred places, and objects with cultural value to a California Native American tribe that are either of the following: (A) Included or determined to be eligible for inclusion in the California Register of Historical Resources. (B) Included in a local register of historical resources as defined in subdivision (k) of Section 5020.1. (2) A resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Section 5024.1. In applying the criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Section 5024.1 for the purposes of this paragraph, the lead agency shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American tribe. (b) A cultural landscape that meets the criteria of subdivision (a) is a tribal cultural resource to the extent that the landscape is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape. (c) A historical resource described in Section 21084.1, a unique archaeological resource as defined in subdivision (g) of Section 21083.2, or a "nonunique archaeological resource" as defined in subdivision (h) of Section 21083.2 may also be a tribal cultural resource if it conforms with the criteria of subdivision (a). Under AB 52, the CEQA Lead Agency is required to Agency to begin consultation with a California Native American Tribe that is traditionally and culturally affiliated with the geographic area of the proposed project. Tribal consultation can be initiated once a project application is deemed complete. Once the Lead Agency has contacted necessary tribal governments, tribes have 30 days to respond with comments or requesting consultation. "Consultation" is the meaningful and timely process of seeking, discussing, and considering carefully the views of others, in a manner that is cognizant of all parties' cultural values and, where feasible, seeking agreement. Consultation between government agencies and Native American tribes shall be conducted in a way that is mutually respectful of each party's sovereignty. Consultation shall also recognize the tribes' potential needs for confidentiality with respect to places that have traditional tribal cultural significance. Consultation concludes when either: the parties agree on measures to mitigate or avoid significant impacts to TCRs or a party, in good faith and after reasonable effort, concludes that a mutual agreement cannot be reached. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-6 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Under AB 52, Tribal Cultural Resources and Consultation, if the City determines that a project may cause a substantial adverse change to a tribal cultural resource, and measures are not otherwise identified in the consultation process, new provisions in CEQA (Section 21084.3(b)) describe mitigation measures that, if determined by the lead agency to be feasible, may avoid or minimize the significant adverse impacts. These include: (1) Avoidance and preservation of the resources in place, including, but not limited to, planning and construction to avoid the resources and protect the cultural and natural context, or planning green space, parks, or other open space, to incorporate the resources with culturally appropriate protection and management criteria. (2) Treating the resource with culturally appropriate dignity taking into account the tribal cultural values and meaning of the resource, including, but not limited to, the following: (A) Protecting the cultural character and integrity of the resource (B) Protecting the traditional use of the resource (C) Protecting the confidentiality of the resource (3) Permanent conservation easements or other interests in real property, with culturally appropriate management criteria for the purposes of preserving or utilizing the resources or places. 5.4.3 General Plan Policies that Apply to the Village GOAL CUL -1. The protection of significant archaeological, historic and paleontological resources which occur in the City. Policy CUL -1.1. All reasonable efforts should be made to identify archaeological and historic resources in the City. Program CUL- I.I.d: The City shall update its historic inventory at a minimum of every 10 years, subject to available funding. Policy CUL -1.2. Assure that significant identified archaeological and historic resources are protected. Program CUL- 1.2.a: The City will be proactive in the protection of archaeological and historic resources in City -sponsored or assisted projects and programs. Program CUL -1.2.c: Encourage owners of qualified historic buildings to take advantage of tax credits and other programs for the preservation and restoration of historic structures. Program CUL- 1.2.d.• Continue to implement the Historic Preservation Ordinance. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-7 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES 5.4.4 Project Impacts Thresholds of Significance With implementation of the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, historical resources within or near the Village area could potentially be impacted by new development or redevelopment occurring in the Village area. The thresholds analyzed in this section are derived from Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, and are used to determine the level of potential effect. The significance determination is based on the recommended criteria set forth in Section 15064.5 of the CEQA Guidelines. For analysis purposes, build -out of the La Quinta Village would have a significant effect on cultural resources if it is determines that the project will: a. Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in 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. The following threshold has been added to the evaluation of cultural resources to assess the potential for a project to impact Native American resources. e. Cause a substantial adverse change to Native American Resources. a. Historical Resources Impact Assessment Methodology Within the State of California there are provisions in CEQA, its Guidelines, and other provisions of the California Public Resources Code for the protection and preservation of significant cultural resources (i.e., "historical resources"). The CEQA Guidelines provide four ways in which a resource can be a "historical resource," and thus a cultural resource meriting analysis: (1) the resource has been formally determined eligible for, or listed on, the National Register of Historic Places (§5024.1(d)(1); (2) the resource is listed on the CRHR; (3) the resource is included in a local register of historical resources (pursuant to §5020.1(k) of the Public Resources Code), or identified as significant in a historical resources survey (meeting the criteria in §5024.1(g) of the Public Resources Code); or (4) the lead agency determines the resource is "historically significant" by assessing CRHR listing guidelines that parallel the federal criteria. (§15064.5(a)(1)-(3) of the CEQA Guidelines (as amended)). To qualify as a historical resource under (1), (2) or (4) above, the resource must also retain the integrity of its physical identity that existed during its period of significance. Integrity is La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-8 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES evaluated with regard to retention of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association (14 C.C.R. 4852(c)). Direct and Indirect Effects Analysis Direct impacts to cultural resources are those associated with project development, construction, and compatibility of infill. Construction can have direct impacts on historical built -environment resources when those buildings or structures must be removed to make way for new buildings or structures or when the vibrations of construction impair the stability of historical buildings or nearby structures. New buildings or structures can have direct impacts on historical built - environment resources when the new buildings or structures are stylistically incompatible with their neighbors and the setting, or when the new buildings or structures produce a harmful effect to the materials or structural integrity of the historical built environment resources, such as emissions or vibrations. Historical built -environment resources can suffer indirect impacts when project construction creates potentially damaging noise and vibration, or the mass and scale of the new construction is incompatible and has visual impact on adjacent buildings. CEQA, however, allows for reduction of impacts. CEQA states "Generally, a project that follows the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring, and Reconstructing Historic Buildings or the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings (Weeks and Grimmer 1995), shall be considered as mitigated to a level of less than a significant impact on the historical resource" (§15064.5(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines, as amended). Even with mitigation, the project impacts resulting in demolition cannot be reduced to a less than significant level. The 13 historically significant properties within and adjacent to the Village Build -Out Plan project area are reported in the City of La Quinta Historic Resources Inventory as locally significant resources and as a result are listed on a local register making them "historical resources" pursuant to CEQA. The condition of the 13 buildings was verified in a field visit on December 4, 2015. All 13 buildings were found to be in good physical condition and retain sufficient levels of historical integrity such that their previous evaluation of significance has not been changed. The potential for direct and indirect impacts of proposed new development on vacant properties or redevelopment of existing properties on each of the resources are shown in Table 5.4-2, Potential for Direct and Indirect Effects. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-9 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Table 5.4-2 Potential for Direct and Indirect Effects Property address Zoning area Proximity to Village Work proposed Project potential Build -Out Plan area to impact 51351 Avenida Cove Immediately adjacent to None Potential indirect Navarro Residential Village Build -Out Project impacts boundary 51411 Avenida Cove Immediately adjacent to None Potential indirect Villa Residential Village Build -Out Project impacts boundary 51001 Village Within Village Build -Out Existing building Potential indirect Eisenhower Drive Commercial Project area not to be altered impacts 51453 Avenida Cove Within one city -block of None Potential indirect Navarro Residential Village Build -Out Project impacts boundary 51397 Avenida Cove Within one city -block of None Potential indirect Navarro Residential Village Build -Out Project impacts boundary 51489 Avenida Cove Within one city -block of None Potential indirect Martinez Residential Village Build -Out Project impacts boundary 51383 Avenida Cove Within one city -block of None Potential indirect Bermudas Residential Village Build -Out Project impacts boundary 51431 Avenida Cove Within one city -block of None Potential indirect Navarro Residential Village Build -Out Project impacts boundary 51453 Avenida Cove Within one city -block of None Potential indirect Martinez Residential Village Build -Out Project impacts boundary 78035-78039 Village Within Village Build -Out Potential Potential direct/ Calle Estado Commercial Project area redevelopment indirect impacts 78023 Calle Village Within Village Build -Out Existing building Potential indirect Estado Commercial Project area not to be altered impacts 77885 Avenida Village Within Village Build -Out Existing building Potential indirect Montezuma Commercial Project area not to be altered impacts 77895 Avenida Village Within Village Build -Out Existing building Potential indirect Montezuma Commercial Project area not to be altered impacts Source: Assessment of Historic Properties, December 15, 2015, Applied Earthworks. Only one of the 13 historically significant properties, a commercial building situated at 78035-78039 Calle Estado, is identified for potential redevelopment. This building is historically significant as a one-story building designed in the Spanish Colonial Revival style and as a commercial building in the historical downtown core. Demolition of this building would result in a direct impact. If the building is not demolished, new development immediately adjacent to this building has the potential to result in an indirect impact on the historical integrity and significance of the building. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-10 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Demolition or alteration of this building should be avoided. If demolition or substantial alteration occurs, the project will result in a direct impact on this cultural resource. Such changes would be considered a substantial adverse change under CEQA. Therefore, avoidance is recommended. If the property cannot be avoided, then mitigation measures must be implemented. Even with mitigation, the project impacts resulting in demolition cannot be reduced to a less than significant level (see Mitigation Measure CR -1). If the building is retained but redevelopment of this parcel occurs, the project could result in a substantial adverse change under CEQA. Therefore, mitigation measures should be implemented to ensure that new construction adjacent to this building is compatible in design, scale, massing, and appearance as required by CEQA through the imposition of the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines (see Mitigation Measure CR -2). Four of the properties in Table 5.4-2, 78023 Calle Estado, 77895 Avenida Montezuma, 77885 Avenida Montezuma, and 51001 Eisenhower Drive, are one- and two-story commercial buildings designed in the Spanish Colonial or Monterey Revival style. These four buildings are located within the Village Build -Out Plan project area, which is zoned for commercial use. They are historically significant for their architectural style and as original buildings of the historical downtown commercial core. Although these properties will not be physically altered as a result of implementation of the Village Build -Out Plan, new development constructed immediately adjacent to the buildings has the potential to result in indirect impacts on the historical integrity and significance of these buildings. If new construction is not compatible in design, scale, massing or appearance, the project could result in a substantial adverse change under CEQA. Therefore, mitigation measures should be followed to ensure that new construction adjacent to these buildings is compatible (see Mitigation Measure CR -3). Eight of the properties in Table 5.4-2, (51351 Avenida Navarro, 51411 Avenida Villa, 51453 Avenida Navarro, 51397 Avenida Navarro, 51383 Avenida Bermudas, 51431 Avenida Navarro, 51489 Avenida Martinez, and 51453 Avenida Martinez), are residential buildings situated in the La Quinta Cove Thematic Historic District. They are located within a residential zone within close proximity to (one city block of) the Village Build -Out Plan project area. They are historically significant for their architectural style and as original buildings of the historical La Quinta Cove residential tract development. Although these buildings will not be physically altered as a result of implementation of the Village Build -Out Plan, new development located adjacent to or within close proximity to these buildings has the potential to produce an indirect impact on the historical integrity and significance of these buildings. A project adjacent to or within close proximity to the buildings will result in a substantial adverse change under CEQA. Therefore, mitigation measures should be implemented to ensure that new construction adjacent to these buildings is compatible in design, scale, massing, and appearance of existing historical commercial buildings in the Village Commercial zone (see Mitigation Measure CR -4). La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-11 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Implementation of Mitigation Measures CR -1 through CR -4 will reduce impacts to less than significant, but if demolition of the commercial building at 78035-78039 Calle Estado that is identified for redevelopment in the Build -out Plan cannot be avoided, it will result in a substantial adverse impact to a historically significant property. b. Substantial Adverse Change in the Significance of an Archaeological Resource Previous cultural surveys throughout the City have identified approximately 500 archaeological sites, both historic and prehistoric. Exhibit 5.4-1, Cultural Resources Survey Map, shows areas within the village that have previously been surveyed for cultural resources. Many of these prehistoric resources are from early Native Americans of the Cahuilla tribe. Vacant lands that have not been surveyed may contain buried archaeological resources. The Village Build -out Plan project area contains vacant properties, some of which may not have yet been disturbed by grading or excavation activities associated with development. Future construction activity on these sites, including grading activity, site excavation, and general construction could potentially result in direct or indirect disturbance or destruction of archaeological resources. Because the vacant properties in the Village are all relatively small, are located within an urban setting, and are relatively devoid of any vegetation, it is highly unlikely that any resources would be on the surface. Because the project area is considered to be highly sensitive for containing prehistoric archaeological deposits in subsurface contexts, vacant land that is proposed for development that hasn't been previously surveyed (See Exhibit 5.4-1) shall comply with Mitigation Measure CR -5, and a qualified archaeological monitor and Native American monitor shall be present on site during grading and excavation activities. With implementation of Mitigation Measure CR -5, impacts to archaeological resources will be less than significant for development on vacant properties within the La Quinta Village Build -out project area. Redevelopment within the Village Build -out project area is not anticipated to have a significant impact on archaeological resources because the sites for redevelopment are already highly disturbed. In order to increase parking within the Village, some development/redevelopment projects may include the addition of underground parking. This type of project would likely require deeper excavation than a typical project, resulting and an increased likelihood that archaeological resources will be uncovered. Therefore, proposed development/redevelopment projects that include underground parking will be required to comply with Mitigation Measure CR -5 in order to reduce impacts on archaeological resources to less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-12 August 2016 Source: La Quinta General Plan 2035, Figure III -4 E1 15 The Altum Group Cultural Resources Survey Map La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Legend Areas previously surveyed Linear surveys Village Build -Out Plan Area Exhibit 5.4-1 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-14 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES C. Directly or Indirectly Destroy a Unique Paleontological Resource Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will facilitate new development in the project area. As shown in Exhibit 5.4-2, Poleontologicol Sensitivity Map, the City experiences varying degrees of paleontological sensitivity according to soil types. Sediments related to the ancient Lake Cahuilla beds exhibit the highest paleontological sensitivity. In comparison, granitic rock soils found along the Coral Mountains, which surround the Cove southwest of the project area, have low paleontological sensitivity, or the sensitivity is undetermined. The Village Build -out Plan project area is located in two areas as shown in Exhibit 5.4-2. The easterly portion of the project area is located within a High Paleontological Sensitivity area; while the westerly portion is located in an area that is Undetermined. Since paleontological sensitivity in the westerly portion of the project area is undetermined, the entire Build -out Plan project area is assumed to have moderate to high paleontological sensitivity. New development activity, including construction, grading, and other site disturbances in moderate and high sensitivity areas, has the potential to impact paleontological resources. The majority of the Village Build -out Plan project area is already developed, but vacant properties within the project area, some of which may not have yet been disturbed by grading or excavation activities associated with development, may potentially result in direct or indirect disturbance or destruction of paleontological resources. Redevelopment within the Village Build -out project area is not anticipated to have a significant impact on paleontological resources because the sites for redevelopment are already highly disturbed. However, some development/redevelopment projects within the Build -out Plan project area are anticipated to propose underground parking, in order to increase parking without reducing developable area. This type of project would likely require deeper excavation than previously performed during original development, resulting and an increased likelihood that archaeological resources will be uncovered. Due to the wide range of projects that can be proposed within the Village Build -out Plan project area, Mitigation Measure CR -6 will require future applicants to have a paleontologist review grading and excavation plans and determine if monitoring during construction is required. The purpose of the monitor is to ensure that during the construction phase of a project, if resources are discovered, the monitor will be available to redirect the construction to another area, until recovery is complete. Implementation of Mitigation Measure CR -6 will reduce impacts associated with paleontological resources to less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-15 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-16 August 2016 LJ r S19 . I 1 Undetermined r w Source: La Quinta General Plan 2035 E115 The Altum Group Low Paleontologic Sensitivity High Paleontologic Sensitivity Legend Paleontological Sensitivity La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report City Boundary Dune Sand Granitic Reck Holocene Alluvium Lake Cahuilla Beds Village Build -Out Plan Area Exhibit 5.4-2 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-18 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES d. Disturb Human Remains The discovery of human remains is always a possibility during ground disturbances. State of California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 states that no further disturbance shall occur until the Riverside County Coroner has made a determination of origin and disposition pursuant to PRC Section 5097.98. The Riverside County Coroner must be notified of the find immediately. If the human remains are determined to be prehistoric, the coroner will notify the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), which will determine and notify a Most Likely Descendant (MLD). The MLD shall complete the inspection of the site within 48 hours of notification and may recommend scientific removal and nondestructive analysis of human remains and items associated with Native American burials. This requirement is also listed as Mitigation Measure CR -7, in order to ensure that it is included in the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program. e. Impacts to Tribal Cultural Resources Regarding the Village Build -out plan project area, the vacant sites within the Village are all adjacent to existing developed sites, so the vacant sites are isolated from other vacant sites. Because the vacant properties in the Village are all relatively small, are located within an urban setting, and are all relatively flat and devoid of any vegetation, it is highly unlikely that any resources would be on the surface. However, because it is unknown whether resources exist on site, and previous correspondence with local tribes have also indicated that there was no specific information regarding cultural resources in the area, construction activities could potentially result in direct or indirect disturbance or destruction of tribal cultural resources. Redevelopment within the Village Build -out project area is not anticipated to have a significant impact on tribal cultural resources because the sites for redevelopment are already highly disturbed. However, some development/redevelopment projects within the Build -out Plan project area are anticipated to propose underground parking, in order to increase parking without reducing developable area. This type of project would likely require deeper excavation than previously performed during original development, resulting and an increased likelihood that tribal cultural resources will be uncovered. Mitigation Measure CR -5 will be implemented for all projects proposed on vacant sites and development/redevelopment projects proposing underground parking to ensure that, during construction or excavation, a qualified archaeological monitor and Native American monitor are on site to monitor activities. 5.4.5 Cumulative Impacts Nineteen historic -aged buildings were identified in the city-wide Historical Resources Survey, updated in 2010. Of these, thirteen were identified by the City as historically significant properties. Development and redevelopment associated with the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan has potential La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-19 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES to directly and indirectly impact these resources, but mitigation has been developed to reduce possible impacts and protect historic resources within the Village. One structure in particular, at 78035-78039 Calle Estado, has been identified in the Build -out Plan for redevelopment. Demolition of this structure would result in a direct significant impact, but no cumulative impacts would occur. The Village Build -out project area has moderate to high potential for occurrence of archaeological and paleontological resources. Additionally, the possibility for uncovering tribal cultural resources during ground -disturbing activities is unknown at this time. Site specific archaeological and paleontological monitoring would be conducted for development projects on vacant sites and development/redevelopment sites proposing underground parking in the Village Build -out Plan project area, including a Native American monitor for archaeological resources. Therefore, new development in the project area would not contribute to or result in a cumulatively significant impact. 5.4.6 Mitigation Measures CR -1 Demolition or extensive alteration of the building at 78035-78039 Calle Estado should be avoided. Overriding considerations to justify the loss of the building would need to be developed were demolition pursued. Because the building is significant for its architectural merits and as one of La Quinta's original downtown commercial buildings, mitigation measures such as photographic and written documentation must be developed prior to any demolition or extensive alteration of this building. Documentation of the building shall follow the Historic American Building Survey (NABS) Level I Standards. This documentation shall include production of high-quality archival print photographs and plan drawings of the building, including but not limited to a floor plan, elevation drawings, and any character -defining features or details on the building. All work carried out pursuant to the documentation of the building shall be conducted by, or under the direct supervision of a person or persons meeting, at a minimum, the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards (48 FR 44738-39 as revised in 1994) as an architectural historian. A written report detailing the documentation shall be provided to the City of La Quinta upon completion of the work. The report shall be produced on archival materials and filed with the La Quinta Historical Society and Museum and La Quinta Library. CR -2 If redevelopment of 78035-78039 Calle Estado occurs, the design of any new construction adjacent to this one-story Spanish Colonial Revival -style commercial building must be compatible in design, scale, massing, and appearance as stated in the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines. The design of new construction should not replicate the historic building style resulting in a false sense of history, but it shall not contrast starkly from its architectural style or design. New construction adjacent La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-20 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES to this historic resource shall be no more than two stories high, and shall not overpower or overshadow this building (massing/scale). The final design of the new construction should be developed in consultation with a historic architect or architectural historian who meets the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards (as published in 36 CFR Part 61). CR -3 The design of any new construction adjacent to the one- and two-story Spanish Colonial and Monterey Revival -style historic resources at 78023 Calle Estado, 77895 Avenida Montezuma, 77885 Avenida Montezuma, and 51001 Eisenhower Drive, shall be compatible in design, scale, massing, and appearance as required by the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines. The building design should not attempt to replicate these buildings in appearance, but shall not conflict or contrast with their architectural style. New construction adjacent to these historic resources shall be no more than two stories high, and shall not overpower or overshadow these existing buildings (scale/massing). The final design of the new construction shall be developed in consultation with a historic architect or architectural historian who meets the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards (as published in 36 CFR Part 61). CR -4 The design of any new construction within the Village Build -Out Plan Area adjacent to the residences of the La Quinta Cove Thematic Historic District shall be compatible in design, scale, massing, and appearance with existing historical commercial buildings in the Village Commercial zone. The design of new commercial buildings should be compatible with the Spanish Colonial and Monterey Revival architectural style of the existing historical commercial core. New construction adjacent to the La Quinta Cove Thematic Historic District shall be no more than two stories high, and shall not overpower or overshadow the historical residential buildings of the La Quinta Cove as required by the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines. The final design of the new construction should be developed in consultation with a historic architect or architectural historian who meets the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards (as published in 36 CFR Part 61). CR -5 Because the project site is considered to be highly sensitive for containing prehistoric archaeological deposits in subsurface contexts, a qualified archaeological monitor (and Native American monitor) shall be present during all phases of construction grading and trenching activities for any project developed on vacant land that has not been previously surveyed for cultural resources, as illustrated in Exhibit 5.4-1 and any development/ redevelopment project that proposes underground parking. The amount of monitoring shall be determined by the archaeologist through the preparation of a monitoring plan to be prepared prior to commencement of grading. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-21 August 2016 5.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES CR -6 A qualified paleontologist shall be retained prior to the start of construction for projects proposed on vacant lots or development/redevelopment projects proposing underground parking. After final depths of impacts are known (from grading plans), a paleontological mitigation plan shall be prepared limited to the proposed deep impact areas (greater than 3 feet) of the project only. In particular, the plan shall (1) clearly define that test trenches that would be dug to the maximum depth of proposed impacts, (2) permit the use of heavy equipment to perform the trenching as all samples will be taken from sidewalls after a stratigraphic profile is developed, (3) require recording of each strata revealed, (4) require radiocarbon dates for each strata, (5) require samples of about 10 kilogram (kg) for each strata with collection of additional samples up to 100 kg for layers rich in vertebrate fossils, (6) require identification and analysis by recognized experts, (7) require an interpretive report, (8) require curation of significant specimens recovered and (9) encourage publication of results. The plan would identify the amount of monitoring required. CR -7 In the event that human remains are uncovered, no further disturbance shall occur until the Riverside County Coroner has made a determination of origin and disposition pursuant to PRC Section 5097.98. The Riverside County Coroner must be notified of the find immediately. If the human remains are determined to be prehistoric, the coroner will notify the NAHC, which will determine and notify a Most Likely Descendant (MLD). The MLD shall complete the inspection of the site within 48 hours of notification and may recommend scientific removal and nondestructive analysis of human remains and items associated with Native American burials. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting A. The Planning Division shall review site-specific historic, archaeological, and paleontological surveys and monitoring reports prepared for new development projects in sensitive areas prior to entitlement of new development projects. Responsible Parties: La Quinta Planning Division, developer, Professional Archaeologist/Paleontologist. 5.4.7 Level of Significance after Mitigation Implementation of mitigation measures CUL -1 through CUL -7 will ensure that impacts to cultural resources would be less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.4-22 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS 5.5 Geology and Soils 5.5.1 Introduction This section of the EIR addresses potential impacts associated with geology and soils that may arise from implementation of the La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan. The existing geologic and soil conditions within the La Quinta Village area are described, and the potential impacts of build out are assessed. Sources used in the preparation of this section are included in Chapter 9, References. 5.5.2 Existing Conditions Environmental Setting Soils in the City are generally Holocene -age soils, comprised of alluvial, or waterborne sand and gravel, lacustrine (lake) sediments, and Aeolian (windborne) sandy soils in the valley portion of La Quinta. Older, harder, crystalline rock that occurs in the mountains weathers and forms boulders or further erodes. The latter creates fine particles that are carried along canyons and drainages downslope, and are deposited as alluvial fans at the base of mountain slopes. La Quinta, like most of the eastern Coachella Valley, was inundated by ancient Lake Cahuilla as recently as 400 years ago. Lacustrine deposits may be up to 300 feet thick, and may form clay soils in the valley areas where these soils alternate in layers with alluvial fan sediments and rock debris from the adjacent mountains. There are eleven primary soil series that have been mapped as occurring in the City of La Quinta and its sphere of influence. Five of the eleven soils occur in the La Quinta Village project area; and are all formed in alluvium: Coachella fine sand, 0 to 2 percent slopes (CpA), Gilman fine sandy loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes (GbA), Indio fine sandy loam (Ip), Indio very fine sandy loam (Is), and Myoma fine sand, 0 to 5 percent slopes (MaB). Much of the valley, including the Village Build -out Plan project area, is subject to high winds, which lift soils from alluvial fans along the base of mountain slopes and canyons and other areas where loose, sandy soils occur. These sediments are carried along the central axis of the valley, generally from the northwest to southeast, creating a condition known as "blowsand". Although, the Village Build -out Plan project area is mostly developed with urban uses, blowsand is less of an issue within the project area. The Coachella Valley and the City of La Quinta are located in a region that is subject to complex and dynamic geologic forces that have, and continue to shape its dramatically varied topography. The area is situated at the margin of the Colorado Desert and Peninsular Range physiographic provinces. Each province comprises a distinct geologic and climatic region that has resulted in diverse and La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-1 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS unique landscapes. The Colorado Desert province, which encompasses the valley floor portion of the City, is part of a low-lying basin extending from the Banning Pass to the border with Mexico. To the southwest, the Santa Rosa Mountains are within the Peninsular Ranges province. Elevations in the Build -out Plan project area range from approximately 39 feet above mean sea level at the eastern boundary, to approximately 57 feet above mean sea level at the western boundary. Development opportunities and constraints are dictated by the area's topography, but the Village Build -out Plan project area is relatively flat, so developmental constraints due to topography are not expected in this area. Geologic Units There are two geologic unit types which have been mapped in the Village Build -out Plan project area and are described below. Exhibit 5.5-1, Geologic Map, shows the locations of these soil units in the project area and geologic soil units within the City and Sphere of Influence. Interbedded lacustrine (clay of valley areas) (QI) The Valley portion of La Quinta is located at the edge of the Salton Trough, a broad tectonic depression that has been sinking over millions of years and has filled with several thick sediment layers that form what is now the Valley floor. As shown in Exhibit 5.5-1, the eastern portion of the Build -out Plan project area is within the margins of ancient Lake Cahuilla, which evaporated possibly as recently as 400 years ago. These soils consist of lacustrine (lake) sediments up to 300 feet thick, layered with alluvial fan and colluvial sediments deposited from mountain slopes. Potential for soil collapse of lacustrine soils is considered low given the presence of deeper sediments from the ancient lakes that underlie the youngest alluvium. Lacustrine soils have high permeability, except for where they interbed with silt or clay layers, which slow the downward percolation of water. There is generally low potential for expansive soils, with the exception of lake deposits with silt and clay near structural foundation elements. Alluvial deposits (sand of Valley areas) (Qa) These soils are geologically young and near -surface, often containing organic debris, and have been rapidly deposited by flash floods. Therefore, engineering issues include compressibility, and soil collapse, with the introduction of irrigation water into dry soils. These soils are also highly susceptible to erosion, with moderate to high permeability. They are appropriate for use as fill after the removal of organic materials and oversized rocks, but for compaction generally require the addition of water. Older, more developed portions of La Quinta, including the Build -out Plan project area, which occur downwind of Eisenhower Mountain, are built on alluvium. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-2 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS To the south of the La Quinta Village area, alluvial deposits generally occur along the base the Santa Rosa Mountains at the southern end of La Quinta Cove. These soils are geologically young and near - surface, often containing organic debris, and have been deposited by flash floods. Soil Units A Custom Soil Resource Report was prepared to identify soil unit classifications within the Village Build -out Plan project area (see Appendix Q. A total of five soil unit types have been mapped in the Build -out Plan project area, consisting of Coachella fine sand (CpA), Gilman fine sandy loam (GbA), Indio fine sandy loam (Ip), Indio very fine sandy loam (Is), and Myoma fine sand (MaB). Of the five soil types, Indio very fine sandy loam occupies the greatest percentage of area within the Build -out Plan at 54 percent followed by Myoma fine sand at 23 percent. Drainage class characteristics of all soil types are generally described as well drained with the exception of MaB which is somewhat excessively well -drained. All soils have a farmland classification of prime farmland if irrigated and have a salinity classification of nonsaline to slightly saline. Regulatory Setting Seismic Hazard Mapping Act The State of California enacted the Seismic Hazards Mapping Act (SHMA) in 1990. It is intended to protect the health and safety of the public from seismically induced ground failure, including ground shaking, liquefaction, and slope stability. The California Geological Survey (CGS) is responsible for implementing the Act. It is charged with providing local governments with maps that identify areas susceptible to such hazards. Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act The Alquist-Priolo Act was enacted in 1972 to mitigate hazards related to surface faulting by identifying zones where surface fractures have occurred. It establishes Alquist-Priolo Zones to identify and prohibit construction or development within areas that are at risk of surface fractures. It is the responsibility of the State Geologist to establish regulatory zones around the surface traces of active faults and to issue appropriate maps identifying Alquist-Priolo zones. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-3 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-4 August 2016 Project Site Source: La Quinta General Plan 2035 EIR, Figure III -6 E115 The Altum Group Geologic Map La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5-5.1 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-6 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS Seismic Hazards The majority of Southern California is located at the boundary between the North American and Pacific tectonic plates, which are moving past each other at varying rates. Most of western southern California, including the Coachella Valley, is located on the Pacific Plate. This plate is moving at a rate of approximately 165 feet in 1,000 years (50 millimeters per year), generally in a northwesterly direction. The San Andreas Fault marks the boundary between these two plates. This major fault trends generally northwest to southeast, approximately 7 miles northeast of the Village. It accommodates approximately 60% to 70% of the plate movement described above, while the rest is distributed among other faults within the San Andreas system as well as those associated with the Eastern California Shear Zone. As a result, the Village Build -out Plan project area is located in a physical and geographic area that is susceptible to strong seismic activity. Major Faults Affecting The Build -out Plan Project Area Earthquakes can result in impacts ranging from significant property damage to the loss of public services and facilities and the loss of life. The most severe impacts in the La Quinta area would be expected to result from strong ground shaking associated with earthquakes. Earthquakes and associated groundshaking can also generate other impacts, such as landslides, damage or destruction to structures, liquefaction, and settlement. Fires, hazardous materials releases, disruption of essential facilities and services such as water, sewer, gas, electric, drainage, and transportation can also occur. Flooding may happen when dam or water tanks fail as a result of ground shaking. The most significant faults with potential to affect the City and the project area are discussed below. The locations of these faults are shown on Exhibit 5.5-2, Fault Locations. San Andreas Fault Zone The San Andreas, which passes approximately 7.5 miles northeast of the Village Build -out Plan project area, is considered the major fault in southern California. This is because of the influence it has over seismic hazards, as well as the frequency and magnitude of earthquakes it generates. The San Andreas Fault extends approximately 690 miles in California, from the Salton Sea to Cape Mendocino in northern California. The 2007 Working Group on California Earthquake Probabilities (WGCEP) estimated that the southern San Andreas fault has a 59 percent probability of causing an earthquake of at least magnitude 6.7 (Richter scale) in the next 30 years. A rupture along the entire southern San Andreas Fault, including, from south to north, the Coachella, San Gorgonio -Garnet Hill, San Bernardino and Mojave segments, with an epicenter along the San Andreas fault closest to La Quinta represents the worst case scenario for La Quinta. Such an La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-7 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS occurrence would generate peak ground accelerations in the City between 0.5 g and 1.1 g, which would result in severe to violent ground shaking. San Jacinto Fault Zone The San Jacinto fault zone is located approximately 16 miles south of the La Quinta Village. Extending approximately 17.5 miles, it intersects with the San Andreas Fault in San Bernardino, and trends southeasterly toward the Brawley area. South of the U.S./Mexico border it continues as the Imperial fault. The San Jacinto fault has historically produced more large earthquakes than any other fault in southern California, albeit none as large as the 1857 and 1906 earthquakes on the San Andreas Fault. WGCEP estimates there is an average 31 percent probability of all the segments of the San Jacinto fault rupturing between 1994 and 2024. The Anza and Coyote Creek segments, respectively, are the segments of the San Jacinto fault zone closest to La Quinta. WGCEP studies (2008) indicate that there is an average recurrence interval for earthquakes along the Anza segment of 238 years, with the most recent earthquakes occurring between 205 and 235 years ago. Should a Mw 7.2 earthquake occur on this segment, it would be expected to generate peak ground accelerations in the Village Build -out area of between about 0.158 and 0.32g. Burnt Mountain Fault The Burnt Mountain fault was unknown prior to 1992; it is one of several of the Eastern Mojave Shear Zone faults. In 1992 a ground -surface rupture, thought to be a large aftershock of the Landers earthquake, occurred along a 3.1 -mile -length of this fault. Geologic mapping indicates this fault is approximately 13 miles long and is approximately 15 miles north of the City at its closest point. It is considered capable of producing a magnitude 6.0 to 6.5 earthquake. Based on a Mw 6.5 earthquake along this fault, horizontal ground accelerations of between 0.088 and 0.21g could occur in La Quinta, with higher accelerations in the northern portion of the City, closest to this fault. Eureka Peak Fault The Eureka Peak Fault is approximately 12.5 to 15 miles long and is a right -lateral strike -slip fault. Along with other faults, it ruptured during the 1992 Landers earthquake, and is thought to have caused the Joshua Tree earthquake of April 22, 1992. The Eureka Peak fault is considered capable of generating earthquakes of between Mw 5.5 and 6.8. In the event of a Mw 6.4 earthquake on this fault, estimates indicate it could generate horizontal peak ground accelerations in the Village Build- out Plan area of between 0.088 and 0.218. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-8 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS Pinto Mountain Fault This fault occurs north-northwest of the City of La Quinta at its nearest point, at the boundary of the north side of the Little San Bernardino Mountains near the town of Yucca Valley. Its length is thought to be between 45 and 56 miles. As defined in the Alquist-Priolo Act, it is considered an active fault, in that it has ruptured at least four times within the last approximately 9,400 years. A scenario entailing a magnitude 7.2 earthquake on this fault would generate peak horizontal ground acceleration in La Quinta of about 0.098 to 0.218. Seismically Induced Geotechnical Hazards Seismically Induced Ground Shaking Seismically induced ground shaking is the most potentially significant geotechnical hazard to the Village Build -out Plan project area. As discussed above, large earthquakes along regional faults, including the San Andreas and San Jacinto fault zones, have the potential to generate moderate to severe ground shaking in the Build -out Plan project area. Factors that determine the effects of ground motion and the degree of structural damage that may occur include: • Intensity of the earthquake. • Distance between epicenter and site. • Soil and bedrock composition. • Depth to groundwater. • Presence of ridge tops (may result in higher localized accelerations). • Building design and other criteria. Liquefaction Liquefaction occurs when ground shaking of relatively long duration and intensity over 0.2 g occurs in areas of loose, unconsolidated soils with relatively shallow groundwater depths (50 feet or less). The sudden increase in water pressure in pores between soil grains may substantially decrease soil shear strength. This creates a condition where soil takes on the qualities of a liquid or a semi - viscous substance. Ground Failure from Compressible Soils Compressible soils are geologically young (Holocene age), have low density and are of unconsolidated sediments. They may compress under the weight of fill embankments and structures. These soils often include recently deposited alluvium, which occurs in the Village Build- out Plan project area. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-9 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS A variety of factors may affect the soil's overall compressibility. These include soil characteristics such as texture and grain size, density and moisture and the thickness of the compressible layer(s), as well as engineering parameters. Ground Failure from Collapsible Soils Recently accumulated soils in arid or semi -arid environments may be subject to soil collapse, or hydroconsolidation. These soils are typically dry and contain tiny voids. If partly supported by clay or silt, they become rearranged and lose cohesion when inundated. Even relatively light loads can cause these soils to settle substantially and quickly under these conditions. When surface water permeates them, differential settlement can occur. Where settlement occurs at or near buildings, particularly when heavy irrigation takes place near a building foundation, structures such as walls or foundations may crack. Subsidence Ground subsidence occurs when the ground surface gradually sinks or settles, with no horizontal movement. Subsidence is primarily caused by human activity. The extraction of sub -surface water, oil or gas in sediment filled valleys and floodplains are primary contributors. Although less common, natural forces, such as earthquake movements, can also result in subsidence and have in some cases resulted in abrupt elevation changes across faults. The effects of regional subsidence include earth fissures, sinkholes or depressions, and surface drainage disruption. Certain improvements may be sensitive to slight elevation changes, including canals, levees, and underground pipelines; these are most at risk from subsidence. Structures such as wells, buildings, roads and railroads can also be damaged where substantial subsidence occurs. When groundwater extraction surpasses supplies, a condition known as overdraft, a loss of aquifer storage capacity can occur and create subsidence. This condition exists throughout the Coachella Valley, including the Village Build -out Plan project area. Therefore, CVWD has instituted a variety of measures to manage subsidence. These include the use of imported water, recharging groundwater basins, and reducing pumping of local wells. Wind Erosion Wind erosion is common in flat, bare, dry and sandy areas. Wind erosion damages land and natural vegetation through sediment transport and re -deposition. These processes result in soil loss and deterioration of structures and air pollution. Much of the Coachella Valley, including the project area, is susceptible to wind and wind-blown sand hazards. A variety of health problems are associated with wind and blowing sand, such as skin disorders, allergies and respiratory irritation, and eye infections. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-10 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS 5.5.3 Applicable Goals and Policies rna i (; Fn- l Protection of the residents' health and safety, and of their property, from geologic and seismic hazards. Policy GEO-1.2 The City shall continue to require that development in areas subject to rockfall, landslide, liquefaction and/or other geotechnical hazards described in this Element, prepare detailed geotechnical analyses that include mitigation measures intended to reduce potential hazards to less than significant levels. Policy GEO-1.3 The City shall require that development in areas subject to collapsible or expansive soils conduct soil sampling and laboratory testing and implement mitigation measures that minimize such hazards. Program GEO-1.3.a: The Building and Safety Department shall review and determine the adequacy of soils and/or other geotechnical studies conducted for proposed projects and enforce the implementation of mitigation measures. Policy GEO-1.4 The City shall require that all new structures be built in accordance with the latest adopted version of the Building Code. Policy GEO-1.5 The City shall continue to require that structures that pose a safety threat due to inadequate seismic design are retrofitted or removed from use, according to law. Policy GEO-1.6 The City shall coordinate and cooperate with public and quasi -public agencies to ensure that major utilities continue to be functional in the event of a major earthquake. Program GEO-1.6.a: The City shall maintain working relationships and strategies between the Public Works Department, utility providers, and other appropriate agencies to strengthen or relocate utility facilities and take other appropriate measures to safeguard major utility distribution systems. 5.5.4 Project Impacts As the La Quinta Village Build -out project area approaches capacity, the potential for a number of geologic and seismic hazards will increase. New development, in accordance with the Village Build- out plan, will result in construction of structures and infrastructure that could expose persons and property to geological hazards during a seismic event. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-11 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS Thresholds of Significance The following standards and criteria have been drawn from Appendix G: Environmental Checklist Form of the CEQA Guidelines. Implementation of the La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan would have a significant effect on soils and geology if it is determined that the project will: 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. 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. Locate the project on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code, creating substantial risks to life or property. d. Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater. a -i. Rupture of a known earthquake fault The majority of southern California is located at the boundary between the North American and Pacific tectonic plates, which are moving past each other at varying rates. Most of western portion of southern California, including the Coachella Valley, is located on the Pacific Plate. This plate is moving at a rate of approximately 165 feet in 1,000 years (50 millimeters per year), generally in a northwesterly direction. The San Andreas Fault marks the boundary between these two plates. This major fault trends generally northwest to southeast, approximately 7.5 miles northeast of the Village Build -out Plan project area. It accommodates approximately 60 percent to 70 percent of the plate movement described above, while the rest is distributed among other faults within the San Andreas system, as well as those associated with the Eastern California Shear Zone. As a result, the Village Build -out Plan project area is located in a physical and geographic area that is susceptible to strong seismic activity. Surface rupture can be expected to occur along the San Andreas Fault. However, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo (AP) Earthquake Fault Zoning Map, the Village Build -out Plan project area is located 7.5 miles south of San Andreas AP Zone and thus would not be impacted by fault rupture. Although no impact is expected, all new and redevelopment projects within the project area will be required to adhere to Uniform Building Code (UBC) and California Building Code (CBC) La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-12 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS regulations per mitigation measure GEO-1 to address strong seismic ground shaking (see Section a -ii below for further discussion). No Impact is anticipated associated with fault rupture in the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area. a -ii. Strong seismic ground shaking Seismically induced groundshaking poses the most potentially significant geotechnical hazard to the Village Build -out Plan project area. Large earthquakes along regional faults such as the San Andreas and San Jacinto fault zones have the capacity of generating moderate to severe ground shaking in the project area. There are several factors that determine the effects of ground motion and the degree of structural damage that may occur. These include earthquake intensity, distance from the epicenter to the site, composition of soil and bedrock, building design, as well as others. As distance from the fault along which the earthquake occurs increases, peak ground accelerations and seismic intensity generally decrease. Local conditions such as soft soils, shallow ground water, and the presence of ridge tops may amplify the effects of seismic waves and may also result in higher localized accelerations. As discussed above, the project area would be subject to potentially moderate to severe ground shaking as a result of earthquakes along the San Andreas Fault Zone and associated faults in the area. It is estimated that there is a ten percent probability that a ground motion of approximately 0.5g will be exceeded in 50 years as measured from the proximity of the La Quinta City Hall. This is a moderate to very high level of ground shaking, which would be expected to result in moderate to heavy damage, especially to unreinforced masonry buildings of older construction design. Foundations may also shift, resulting in exposed power lines, gas leaks, and fires, and exposed power lines. All new buildings in La Quinta must utilize reinforced masonry and must comply with the UBC/CBC, and it is expected that this compliance will allow structures to resist major earthquakes without collapsing, even if structural damage occurs. Lastly, mitigation (GEO-1 and GEO-2) implementing the preparation of a geotechnical and soils analysis for all new development and redevelopment projects and incorporating structural design components consistent with UBC/CBC regulations, will ensure consistency with City Policy GEO-1.4. Therefore, with implementation of Mitigation Measures GEO-1 and GEO-2, impacts in regard to strong seismic ground shaking would be reduced to less than significant levels. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-13 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-14 August 2016 Project Site Source: La Quinta General Plan 2035 EIR, Figure III -8 E115 The Altum Group Fault Locations La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5-5.2 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-16 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS a -iii. Ground Failure, Liquefaction and Subsidence Since the project area contains alluvial soils mixed with lacustrine clay deposits, localized settlement can occur where soils such as alluvium or wind-borne soils have been recently deposited. By requiring testing and review of adequacy of soils by the Building and Safety Department, the project would maintain consistency with City Policy GEO-1.3 and Program GEO-1.3a, and by implementing Mitigation Measure GEO-2, would reduce impacts in regard to collapsible soils to a less than significant level. Liquefaction Given its proximity to major, active regional fault systems, the project area and the entire City of La Quinta is subject to strong ground shaking. Liquefaction occurs when there is a loss in shear strength when fine-grained soils become saturated. Damage can result when buildings tilt or sink. As shown in Exhibit 5.5-3, Seismic Hazards, the Village Build -out Plan project area is not within the area that is susceptible to liquefaction so that any impacts would be less than significant. Subsidence The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has monitored subsidence rates in the Coachella Valley over several decades. These data indicate rapid increases in subsidence rates, which is primarily attributed to groundwater extraction in the Valley. Irreversible subsidence can occur when groundwater is removed from clay and silt layers in the underlying aquifer, creating surface fissures and cracks. In the Coachella Valley, fissures have been recorded in one instance in La Quinta, in 1948 near the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Subsidence is most typical in valleys where overdraft is an issue. CVWD is currently addressing this issue at a regional level in its groundwater management program. To reduce this impact, CVWD has implemented a range of programmatic measures, including groundwater recharge, imported water, and a variety of water conservation techniques and programs. This is discussed further in Section 5.7, Hydrology and Water Quality. Based on the subsidence map prepared by USGS in conjunction with CVWD, the La Quinta Village Build out Plan project area is located southwest of the subsidence zone in La Quinta, and therefore, is not expected to be significantly impacted by regional subsidence. Implementation of programmatic measures developed by CVWD in an effort to reduce regional subsidence in the Coachella Valley will further reduce any impacts with regard to subsidence. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-17 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-18 August 2016 1Jmm + The m p la ineerded b, gerK leod. F; ^Pd 91 only, Inku 06.. rhirn i. rrx •i9c1entl — esa ase b, devilled gecko. Imafiko— d Indh•Iduel Dies. II rmr dos i.eddy4 evel.� fa V.3ogi.h—rd. Earthquake -Induced Slope Instability Eai I C—luriu Torrad-1 ED magas no rage r wlmo orwametlm ragardlrg _ Very Fllgh Soil 13iock Slides i dre atcvaty of rhedau (rcrri whl[hfiee mys .vee deg & La,herl iaa be fable Moderate Rock Fa[Is rr Liquefaction Susceptibility �,�:rry �imarwan<m Fr =ny dir.r.r, l�allmcy special, I icldewl, re rnrparµievial _ I ligh {areas underlain by youthful, unconsolidated � ainriugea wid. nT +ui sly cleiinb,,ny u><r errhl,d penyenncewn of. erAmg within 30 feet of ground surface) fi i from, the usr ul this map. sediments, and Iiislorically shallow groundwater 30 to p 50 ieeL below the ground surface) f Groundwater Elevation per MVR 1964 I :W � La Quinta Spherenf Influence 4 Project Site PE, � t � r Source: La Quinta General Plan 2035 E115 The Altum Group I re III -9 fi I fi r I r *'1 Legend ;o W/ Seismic Hazards _y Explanation Earthquake -Induced Slope Instability _ Very Fllgh Soil 13iock Slides _ Fiigh 50ii Slumps Moderate Rock Fa[Is rr Liquefaction Susceptibility _ I ligh {areas underlain by youthful, unconsolidated sediments, and historically shallow groundwater within 30 feet of ground surface) fi Moderate (areas underlain by youthful, unconsolidated 4 sediments, and Iiislorically shallow groundwater 30 to 50 ieeL below the ground surface) f Groundwater Elevation per MVR 1964 I La Quinta City Boundary � La Quinta Spherenf Influence N "00 a soon Feet L'I 21100 0 2000 ' nteeem Scale: 1:72,000 Buse Ahrp: 11505 Tupuprdph is M5 p roan 5U,IIMAPS RASTER, 1477 5ources: &iAried Fran Riverside C—ly C—al Plan, Deparlrn YL of Wdtr ft—es BuIram Ina (1964), and USGS 30rn Digital Ekwatim Nk.W _ Earth I13'bntS Ints�na�ianaJ Project Number: 3004 Date: 2010 Seismic Hazards La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5-5.3 fi rr ♦U fife fi f I N "00 a soon Feet L'I 21100 0 2000 ' nteeem Scale: 1:72,000 Buse Ahrp: 11505 Tupuprdph is M5 p roan 5U,IIMAPS RASTER, 1477 5ources: &iAried Fran Riverside C—ly C—al Plan, Deparlrn YL of Wdtr ft—es BuIram Ina (1964), and USGS 30rn Digital Ekwatim Nk.W _ Earth I13'bntS Ints�na�ianaJ Project Number: 3004 Date: 2010 Seismic Hazards La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5-5.3 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-20 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS a -iv. Landslides Landslides and rockfall can occur when unstable slope conditions are worsened by strong ground motion caused by seismic events. Conditions that lead to landslide vulnerability include high seismic potential; rapid uplift and erosion that creates steep slopes and deeply incised canyons; folded and highly fractured rock; and rock with silt or clay layers that are inherently weak. Rockfall and rockslides are also common on very steep slopes. Landslides have been recorded after periods of heavy rainfall, and rockfall has been associated with slope failure during drier periods. Areas where development is located below hillsides, mountain slopes and steep canyon walls are considered most susceptible to rockfall. Perched on slopes, boulders can result in a rockfall hazard to development adjacent to these slopes. The La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan project area however, is not near or directly adjacent to the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains and is relatively flat. Furthermore, as shown in Exhibit 5.5-3, the project area is not within the area that is at risk of slope instability. Therefore, no impacts in this regard are expected. b. Soil Erosion or Loss of Topsoil Hydrological Erosion Climate, topography, soil and rock types, and vegetation are all factors that influence erosion, runoff, and sedimentation. These issues are relevant to La Quinta given the area's topography. Adjacent mountains are composed of fractured bedrock that has undergone rapid geologic uplift. The region is subject to infrequent but often powerful winter storms that generate high rates of erosion. Where wildfires have removed vegetation from mountain slopes, erosion risk is further increased. These conditions are intensified when storms create large volumes of sediment that flow to areas downslope. Within the project area, grading and clearing activities eliminate protective vegetation, modify natural drainage patterns, and compress soils. Development also reduces the surface area available for water to percolate which can increase the risk of downstream sedimentation and flooding. Development plans for new projects in the project area are required to incorporate temporary and permanent erosion control. Where such projects exceed one acre, developers must obtain coverage under the Statewide General Construction Permit and the City's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit. Requirements associated with this coverage would include the preparation of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), Best Management Practices (BMPs) and in some cases the preparation of a Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) for a project site (See Section 5.8, Hydrology). Impacts associated with hydrological erosion will be less than significant if all forgoing erosion control requirements are implemented. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-21 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS Wind Erosion According to Exhibit 5.5-4, Wind Susceptibility Map, the project area has a high to very high likelihood for wind erosion. Soils may be loosened and transported during grading and construction activities. For this reason, erosion control measures including routine site watering, cessation of construction on extremely windy days, installation of wind barriers and soil watering at construction sites would be used and required for development within the project area pursuant to SCAQMD Rule 403, in order to mitigate construction impacts to a less than significant level. (See Section 5.2, Air Quality and Section 5.8, Hydrology). C. Expansive Soils Varying amounts of fine-grained silts and clays within soils may shrink or swell as moisture content changes. The presence of expansive soils may create pressure that can affect structures or other surface improvements. The project area and the Valley floor are underlain by alluvial sand and gravel interbedded with fine- grained lakebed deposits such as silts and clays. The region was the site of ancient Lake Cahuilla, as well as other large lakes that inundated the Salton Trough. These soils consist of lacustrine (lake) sediments up to 300 feet thick, layered with alluvial fan and colluvial sediments deposited from mountain slopes. Lacustrine soils have high permeability, except for where they are interbedded with silt or clay layers, which slow the downward percolation of water. There is generally low potential for expansive soils, with the exception of lake deposits with silt and clay near structural foundation elements. As a result of these characteristics, there may be considerable variation in the expansion of these soils after site grading. Typical soil profiles on older alluvial fan deposits may include substantial amounts of clay material that would be expected to be moderately expansive. Implementation of Mitigation Measure GEO-2 in requiring analysis of soil sampling, laboratory testing and preparation of a geotechnical and soils analysis for all new development would maintain consistency with City Policy GEO-1.3 and Program GEO-1.3a and would reduce impacts in regard to expansive soils to a less than significant level. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-22 August 2016 Project Site ` , Source: La Quinta General Plan 2035 EIR, Figure III -7 E115 The Altum Group Wind Susceptibility Map La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5-5.4 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-24 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS Corrosive Soils Soil and buried metallic structures, such as utility pipes or elements within building foundations, may react in a variety of ways involving complex electrochemical and bacteriological processes. On the Valley floor including the project area, sediments may be present that are corrosive to metallic objects, such as pipelines. Means to reduce risks associated with corrosive soils may include the use of special cement mixes, specialized coatings or protective wrapping materials, and specified soil water content. A soils analysis to include testing by a qualified corrosion engineer would confirm if there is a presence of corrosive soils, and to provide recommendations to alleviate the condition. By requiring testing and review of adequacy of soils by the Building and Safety Department, the project would maintain consistency with City Policy GEO-1.3 and Program GEO- 1.3a, and by implementing Mitigation Measure GEO-2, would determine if corrosive soil testing is, or is not needed, thereby reducing impacts in this regard to less than significant levels. d. Septic Systems/Alternative Waste Disposal Systems All existing and future buildings are and will be connected to sewer lines and no septic systems are proposed. 5.5.5 Cumulative Impacts New and existing development within the Village Build -out Plan project area could be adversely impacted by geotechnical hazards. Mitigation measures in the form of CBC compliance during grading and construction address geotechnical hazards in regards to fault rupture, seismic ground shaking, ground failure, liquefaction, subsidence, loss of topsoil and expansive soils or corrosive soils. Mitigation Measures GEO-1 and GEO-2 would ensure that geotechnical and soils analysis and conformance with current UBC and CBC regulations are implemented. With implementation of the foregoing Mitigation Measures and adherence to goals, policies and programs as identified above, all new development within the project area will assist in minimizing cumulative impacts. Therefore, cumulative impacts associated with geology and soils are expected to be less than significant. 5.5.6 Mitigation Measures GEO-1 Applicants for new structures shall utilize modern building materials and techniques, and be built in accordance with the latest version of the California Building Code (CBC). GEO-2 Applicants for new development projects, including redevelopment involving changes to building size shall be required to prepare a detailed geotechnical and soils analysis that includes soil sampling, laboratory testing and mitigation measures intended to reduce potential geotechnical hazards to less than significant levels. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-25 August 2016 5.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting A. During site preparation for any project, the City Engineer and/or Building and Safety Department staff shall visit the site to assure compliance with applicable conditions of approval, City ordinances, and erosion control plans. Responsible Parties: City Engineer, Building and Safety Department, project developer, grading contractor. B. Subsequent to preparation of final development plans and specifications and prior to grading and construction, the Geotechnical Consultant and the City Engineer shall review foundation plans to confirm compatibility with site-specific geotechnical conditions and conformance with the recommendations contained herein. The need for additional subsurface exploration shall be determined on a project -by -project basis. Responsible Parties: City Engineer, Geotechnical Consultant. C. Rough grading shall be performed under geological and/or engineering observation by the Geotechnical Consultant and the City Engineer, as appropriate. Responsible Parties: City Engineer and Geotechnical Consultant. 5.5.7 Level of Significance after Mitigation With implementation of mitigation herein, impacts in regard to geology and soils will be reduced to less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.5-26 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS 5.6 Greenhouse Gas Emissions 5.6.1 Introduction The purpose of this section is to describe the existing setting regarding the generation of Greenhouse gasses, and the potential impacts that may occur with implementation of the Village Build -out Plan. References used in the preparation of this section are identified in Chapter 9, References. 5.6.2 Existing Conditions Environmental Setting Constituent gases of the Earth's atmosphere, called atmospheric greenhouse gases (GHG), play a critical role in the Earth's radiation amount by trapping infrared radiation emitted from the Earth's surface, which otherwise would have escaped to space. Prominent greenhouse gases contributing to this process include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), ozone, water vapor, nitrous oxide (N20), and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). This phenomenon, known as the Greenhouse Effect, is responsible for maintaining a habitable climate. Anthropogenic (caused or produced by humans) emissions of these greenhouse gases in excess of natural ambient concentrations are responsible for the enhancement of the Greenhouse Effect and have led to a trend of unnatural warming of the Earth's natural climate, known as global warming or climate change. Emissions of gases that induce global warming are attributable to human activities associated with industrial/manufacturing, agriculture, utilities, transportation, and residential land uses. Transportation is responsible for 41 percent of the State's greenhouse gas emissions, followed by electricity generation. Emissions of CO2 and nitrous oxide (NOX) are byproducts of fossil fuel combustion. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, results from off -gassing associated with agricultural practices and landfills. Sinks of CO2, where CO2 is stored outside of the atmosphere, include uptake by vegetation and dissolution into the ocean. The following provides a description of each of the greenhouse gases and their global warming potential. Water Vapor Water vapor is the most abundant, important, and variable GHG in the atmosphere. Water vapor is not considered a pollutant; in the atmosphere it maintains a climate necessary for life. Changes in its concentration are primarily considered a result of climate feedbacks related to the warming of the atmosphere rather than a direct result of industrialization. The feedback loop in which water is involved is critically important to projecting future climate change. As the temperature of the atmosphere rises, more water is evaporated from ground storage (rivers, oceans, reservoirs, soil). Because the air is warmer, the relative humidity can be higher (in essence, the air is able to "hold" more water when it is warmer), leading to more water vapor in the atmosphere. As a GHG, the higher La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-1 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS concentration of water vapor is then able to absorb more thermal indirect energy radiated from the Earth, thus further warming the atmosphere. The warmer atmosphere can then hold more water vapor and so on and so on. This is referred to as a "positive feedback loop." The extent to which this positive feedback loop will continue is unknown as there is also dynamics that put the positive feedback loop in check. As an example, when water vapor increases in the atmosphere, more of it will eventually also condense into clouds, which are more able to reflect incoming solar radiation (thus allowing less energy to reach the Earth's surface and heat it up). Carbon Dioxide (CO2) The natural production and absorption of CO2 is achieved through the terrestrial biosphere and the ocean. However, humankind has altered the natural carbon cycle by burning coal, oil, natural gas, and wood. Since the industrial revolution began in the mid -1700s. Each of these activities has increased in scale and distribution. CO2 was the first GHG demonstrated to be increasing in atmospheric concentration with the first conclusive measurements being made in the last half of the 20th century. Prior to the industrial revolution, concentrations were fairly stable at 280 parts per million (ppm). The International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) indicates that concentrations were 379 ppm in 2005, an increase of more than 30 percent. Left unchecked, the IPCC projects that concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is projected to increase to a minimum of 540 ppm by 2100 as a direct result of anthropogenic sources. This could result in an average global temperature rise of at least two degrees Celsius or 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Methane (CH4) CH4 is an extremely effective absorber of radiation, although its atmospheric concentration is less than that of CO2. Its lifetime in the atmosphere is brief (10 to 12 years), compared to some other GHGs (such as CO2, N20, and CFCs. CH4 has both natural and anthropogenic sources. It is released as part of the biological processes in low oxygen environments, such as in swamplands or in rice production (at the roots of the plants). Over the last 50 years, human activities such as growing rice, raising cattle, using natural gas, and mining coal have added to the atmospheric concentration of methane. Other anthropocentric sources include fossil -fuel combustion and biomass burning. Nitrous Oxide (N2O) Concentrations of N20 also began to rise at the beginning of the industrial revolution. In 1998, the global concentration of this GHG was documented at 314 parts per billion (ppb). N20 is produced by microbial processes in soil and water, including those reactions which occur in fertilizer containing nitrogen. In addition to agricultural sources, some industrial processes (fossil fuel -fired power plants, nylon production, nitric acid production, and vehicle emissions) also contribute to its atmospheric load. It is also commonly used as an aerosol spray propellant, (i.e., in whipped cream bottles, in potato chip bags to keep chips fresh, and in rocket engines and in race cars). La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-2 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) CFCs are gases formed synthetically by replacing all hydrogen atoms in methane or ethane (C2H6) with chlorine and/or fluorine atoms. CFCs are nontoxic, nonflammable, insoluble, and chemically unreactive in the troposphere (the level of air at the Earth's surface). CFCs have no natural source, but were first synthesized in 1928. It was used for refrigerants, aerosol propellants, and cleaning solvents. Due to the discovery that they are able to destroy stratospheric ozone, a global effort to halt their production was undertaken and in 1989 the European Community agreed to ban CFCs by 2000 and subsequent treaties banned CFCs worldwide by 2010. This effort was extremely successful, and the levels of the major CFCs are now remaining level or declining. However, their long atmospheric lifetimes mean that some of the CFCs will remain in the atmosphere for over 100 years. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) HFCs are synthetic man-made chemicals that are used as a substitute for CFCs. Out of all the GHGs, they are one of three groups with the highest global warming potential. The HFCs with the largest measured atmospheric abundances are (in order), HFC -23 (CHF3), HFC -134a (CF3CH2F), and HFC -152a (CH3CHF2). Prior to 1990, the only significant emissions were HFC -23. HFC -134a use is increasing due to its use as a refrigerant. Concentrations of HFC -23 and HFC -134a in the atmosphere are now about 10 parts per trillion (ppt) each. Concentrations of HFC -152a are about 1 ppt. HFCs are manmade for applications such as automobile air conditioners and refrigerants. Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) PFCs have stable molecular structures and do not break down through the chemical processes in the lower atmosphere. High-energy ultraviolet rays about 60 kilometers above Earth's surface are able to destroy the compounds. Because of this, PFCs have very long lifetimes, between 10,000 and 50,000 years. Two common PFCs are tetrafluoromethane (CF4) and hexafluoroethane (C2F6). Concentrations of CF4 in the atmosphere are over 70 ppt. The two main sources of PFCs are primary aluminum production and semiconductor manufacturing. Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6) SF6 is an inorganic, odorless, colorless, nontoxic, nonflammable gas. SF6 has the highest global warming potential of any gas evaluated; 23,900 times that of CO2. Concentrations in the 1990s were about 4 ppt. Sulfur hexafluoride is used for insulation in electric power transmission and distribution equipment, in the magnesium industry, in semiconductor manufacturing, and as a tracer gas for leak detection. Aerosols Aerosols are particles emitted into the air through burning biomass (plant material) and fossil fuels. Aerosols can warm the atmosphere by absorbing and emitting heat and can cool the atmosphere by reflecting light. Cloud formation can also be affected by aerosols. Sulfate aerosols are emitted when La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-3 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS fuel containing sulfur is burned. Black carbon (or soot) is emitted during biomass burning due to the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. Particulate matter regulation has been lowering aerosol concentrations in the United States; however, global concentrations are likely increasing Global Warming Potential (GWP) GHGs have varying global warming potential (GWP). The global warming potential is the potential of a gas or aerosol to trap heat in the atmosphere; it is the cumulative radiative forcing effects of a gas over a specified time horizon resulting from the emission of a unit mass of gas relative to the reference gas, CO2. One teragram of carbon dioxide equivalent (Tg CO2e) is essentially the emissions of the gas multiplied by the global warming potential. One teragram is equal to one million metric tons. The carbon dioxide equivalent is a good way to assess emissions because it gives weight to the global warming potential of the gas. A summary of the atmospheric lifetime and the global warming potential of selected gases are summarized in Table 5.6-1, Global Warming Potentials and Atmospheric Lifetimes. As shown in Table 5.6-1, the global warming potential of GHGs ranges from 1 to 22,800. Table 5.6-1 Global Warming Potentials and Atmospheric Lifetimes' Gas Atmospheric Lifetime Global Warming Potential' (100 Year Horizon) Carbon Dioxide (CO2) —3 1 Methane (CH4) 12 28-36 Nitrous Oxide (NO) 114 298 Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) 1-270 12-14,800 Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) 2,600-50,000 7,390-12,200 Nitrogen trifluoride (NF3) 740 17,200 Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6) 3,200 22,800 Source: Inc. Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 2, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 (See Appendix 8) Notes: 1. Source: http://www3.epa.gov/climatechange/ghgemissions/gases.html 2. Compared to the same quantity of CO2 emissions. 3. Carbon dioxide's lifetime is poorly defined because the gas is not destroyed over time, but instead moves among different parts of the ocean—atmosphere—land system. Some of the excess carbon dioxide will be absorbed quickly (for example, by the ocean surface), but some will remain in the atmosphere for thousands of years, due in part to the very slow process by which carbon is transferred to ocean sediments. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-4 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Regulatory Setting International In 1988, the United Nations established the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to evaluate the impacts of global climate change and to develop strategies that nations could implement to curtail global climate change. In 1992, the United States joined other countries around the world in signing the United Nations' Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) agreement with the goal of controlling GHG emissions. As a result, the Climate Change Action Plan was developed to address the reduction of GHGs in the United States. The plan consists of more than 50 voluntary programs. Additionally, the Montreal Protocol was originally signed in 1987 and substantially amended in 1990 and 1992. The Montreal Protocol stipulates that the production and consumption of compounds that deplete ozone in the stratosphere—CFCs, halons, carbon tetrachloride, and methyl chloroform— were to be phased out, with the first three by the year 2000 and methyl chloroform by 2005. Federal The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for setting and enforcing the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for atmospheric pollutants. In Massachusetts v. Environmental Protection Agency (Docket No. 05-1120), argued November 29, 2006 and decided April 2, 2007, the U.S. Supreme Court held that not only did the EPA have authority to regulate greenhouse gases, but the EPA's reasons for not regulating this area did not fit the statutory requirements. As such, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the EPA should be required to regulate CO2 and other greenhouse gases as pollutants under the federal Clean Air Act (CAA). In response to the FY2008 Consolidations Appropriations Act (H.R. 2764; Public Law 110-161), EPA proposed a rule on March 10, 2009 that requires mandatory reporting of GHG emissions from large sources in the United States. On September 22, 2009, the Final Mandatory Reporting of GHG Rule was signed and published in the Federal Register on October 30, 2009. The rule became effective on December 29, 2009. This rule requires suppliers of fossil fuels or industrial GHGs, manufacturers of vehicles and engines, and facilities that emit 25,000 metric tons or more per year of GHG emissions to submit annual reports to EPA. On December 7, 2009, the EPA Administrator signed two distinct findings under section 202(a) of the Clean Air Act. One is an endangerment finding that finds concentrations of the six GHGs in the atmosphere threaten the public health and welfare of current and future generations. The other is a cause or contribute finding, that finds emissions from new motor vehicles and new motor vehicle engines contribute to the GHG pollution which threatens public health and welfare. These actions will not themselves impose any requirements on industry or other entities. However, it is a La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-5 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS prerequisite to finalizing the EPA's proposed GHG emission standards for light-duty vehicles, which were jointly proposed by the EPA and Department of Transportation on September 15, 2009. In response to the FY2008 Consolidations Appropriations Act (H.R. 2764; Public Law 110-161), EPA proposed a rule on March 10, 2009 that requires mandatory reporting of GHG emissions from large sources in the United States. On September 22, 2009, the Final Mandatory Reporting of GHG Rule was signed and published in the Federal Register on October 30, 2009. The rule became effective on December 29, 2009. This rule requires suppliers of fossil fuels or industrial GHGs, manufacturers of vehicles and engines, and facilities that emit 25,000 metric tons or more per year of GHG emissions to submit annual reports to EPA. On December 7, 2009, the EPA Administrator signed two distinct findings under section 202(a) of the Clean Air Act. One is an endangerment finding that finds concentrations of the six GHGs in the atmosphere threaten the public health and welfare of current and future generations. The other is a cause or contribute finding, that finds emissions from new motor vehicles and new motor vehicle engines contribute to the GHG pollution which threatens public health and welfare. These actions will not themselves impose any requirements on industry or other entities. However, it is a prerequisite to finalizing the EPA's proposed GHG emission standards for light-duty vehicles, which were jointly proposed by the EPA and Department of Transportation on September 15, 2009. State California Air Resources Board The CARB also proposed interim statewide CEQA thresholds for GHG emissions and released Recommended Approaches for Setting Interim Significance Thresholds for Greenhouse Gases under the California Environmental Quality Act, on October 24, 2008. The State currently has no regulations that establish ambient air quality standards for GHGs. However, the State has passed laws directing CARB to develop actions to reduce GHG emissions, which as applicable to the project, are listed below. Assembly Bill 1493 California Assembly Bill 1493 (also known as the Pavley Bill, in reference to its author Fran Pavley) was enacted on July 22, 2002 and required CARB to develop and adopt regulations that reduce GHGs emitted by passenger vehicles and light duty trucks. In 2004, CARB approved the "Pavley I" regulations limiting the amount of GHGs that may be released from new passenger automobiles that are being phased in between model years 2009 through 2016. This regulation will reduce GHG emissions by 30 percent from 2002 levels by 2016. The second set of regulations "Pavley 11" is currently in development and will be phased in between model years 2017 through 2025 and will reduce emissions by 45 percent by the year 2020. The Pavley 11 standards are being developed by La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-6 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS linking the GHG emissions and formerly separate toxic tailpipe emissions standards previously known as the "LEV III" (third stage of the Low Emission Vehicle standards) into a single regulatory framework. In 2005, the CARB submitted a "waiver" request to the EPA in order to implement the GHG standards and in March of 2008, the U.S. EPA denied the request. However, in June 2009, the decision was reversed and the U.S. EPA granted California the authority to implement the GHG standards for passenger cars, pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles. In September 2009, the Pavley I regulations were adopted by CARB. Senate Bills 1078, 107, and X1-2 and Executive Orders S-14-08 and S-21-09 Senate Bill 1078 (SB 1078) requires retail sellers of electricity, including investor-owned utilities and community choice aggregators, to provide at least 20 percent of their supply from renewable sources by 2017. Senate Bill 107 (SB 107) changed the target date to 2010. Executive Order S-14-08 was signed on November 2008 and expands the State's Renewable Energy Standard to 33 percent renewable energy by 2020. Executive Order S-21-09 directed CARB to adopt regulations by July 31, 2010 to enforce S-14-08. Senate Bill X1-2 codifies the 33 percent renewable energy requirement by 2020. Executive Order S-3-05 The California Governor issued Executive Order S-3-05, GHG Emission, in June 2005, which established the following reduction targets: • 2010: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 2000 levels • 2020: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels • 2050: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 80 percent below 1990 levels. The executive order directed the secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency (CaIEPA) to coordinate a multi -agency effort to reduce GHG emissions to the target levels. To comply with the Executive Order, the secretary of CaIEPA created the California Climate Action Team (CAT), made up of members from various state agencies and commissions. The team released its first report in March 2006. The report proposed to achieve the targets by building on the voluntary actions of businesses, local governments, and communities and through State incentive and regulatory programs. California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 24, Part 6 CCR Title 24, Part 6: California's Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings (Title 24) were first established in 1978 in response to a legislative mandate to reduce California's energy consumption. The standards are updated periodically to allow consideration and possible incorporation of new energy efficiency technologies and methods. Although it was not La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-7 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS originally intended to reduce GHG emissions, electricity production by fossil fuels results in GHG emissions and energy efficient buildings require less electricity. Therefore, increased energy efficiency results in decreased GHG emissions. The Energy Commission adopted 2008 Standards on April 23, 2008 and Building Standards Commission approved them for publication on September 11, 2008. These updates became effective on August 1, 2009. All buildings for which an application for a building permit is submitted on or after January 1, 2014 must follow the 2013 standards. The 2013 commercial standards are estimated to be 30 percent more efficient than the 2008 commercial standards; 2013 residential standards are approximately 25 percent more efficient. Energy efficient buildings require less electricity; therefore, increased energy efficiency reduces fossil fuel consumption and decreases greenhouse gas emissions. California Green Building Standards On January 12, 2010, the State Building Standards Commission unanimously adopted updates to the California Green Building Standards Code, which went into effect on January 1, 2011. The Code is a comprehensive and uniform regulatory code for all residential, commercial and school buildings. The California Green Building Standards Code does not prevent a local jurisdiction from adopting a more stringent code as state law provides methods for local enhancements. The Code recognizes that many jurisdictions have developed existing construction and demolition ordinances, and defers to them as the ruling guidance provided they provide a minimum 50 -percent diversion requirement. The code also provides exemptions for areas not served by construction and demolition recycling infrastructure. State building code provides the minimum standard that buildings need to meet in order to be certified for occupancy. Enforcement is generally through the local building official. CCR Title 24, Part 11: California Green Building Standards (Title 24) became effective in 2001 in response to continued efforts to reduce GHG emissions associated with energy consumption. CCR Title 24, Part 11 now require that new buildings reduce water consumption, employ building commissioning to increase building system efficiencies, divert construction waste from landfills, and install low pollutant -emitting finish materials. One focus of CCR Title 24, Part 11 is water conservation measures, which reduce GHG emissions by reducing electrical consumption associated with pumping and treating water. CCR Title 24, Part 11 has approximately 52 nonresidential mandatory measures and an additional 130 provisions for optional use. Some key mandatory measures for commercial occupancies include specified parking for clean air vehicles, a 20 percent reduction of potable water use within buildings, a 50 percent construction waste diversion from landfills, use of building finish materials that emit low levels of volatile organic compounds, and commissioning for new, nonresidential buildings over 10,000 square feet. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-8 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Assembly Bill 32 In 2006, the California State Legislature adopted Assembly Bill 32 (AB 32), the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006. AB 32 requires CARB, to adopt rules and regulations that would achieve GHG emissions equivalent to statewide levels in 1990 by 2020 through an enforceable statewide emission cap which will be phased in starting in 2012. Emission reductions shall include carbon sequestration projects that would remove carbon from the atmosphere and best management practices that are technologically feasible and cost effective. Senate Bill 375 Senate Bill 375 (SB 375) was adopted September 2008 and aligns regional transportation planning efforts, regional GHG emission reduction targets, and land use and housing allocation. SB 375 requires Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO) to adopt a sustainable community's strategy (SCS) or alternate planning strategy (APS) that will prescribe land use allocation in that MPOs Regional Transportation Plan (RTP). CARB, in consultation with each MPO, will provide each affected region with reduction targets for GHGs emitted by passenger cars and light trucks in the region for the years 2020 and 2035. These reduction targets will be updated every eight years but can be updated every four years if advancements in emissions technologies affect the reduction strategies to achieve the targets. CARB is also charged with reviewing each MPO's sustainable community's strategy or alternate planning strategy for consistency with its assigned targets. Regional - South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) The SCAQMD is the agency principally responsible for comprehensive air pollution control in the Coachella Valley. To that end, as a regional agency, the SCAQMD works directly with the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), county transportation commissions, and local governments and cooperates actively with all federal and state agencies. The SCAQMD develops rules and regulations, establishes permitting requirements for stationary sources, inspects emission sources, and enforces such measures through educational programs or fines, when necessary. The SCAQMD is directly responsible for reducing emissions from stationary, mobile, and indirect sources. It has responded to this requirement by preparing a sequence of AQMPs. A revised draft of the 2012 AQMP was released on September, 2012, was adopted by the SCAQMD Board on December 7, 2012, and was adopted by CARB via Resolution 13-3 on January 25, 2013. The 2012 AQMP builds upon the approaches taken in the 2007 AQMP for the attainment of federal PM and ozone standards, and highlights the significant amount of reductions needed and the need to engage in interagency coordinated planning of mobile sources to meet all of the federal criteria pollutant standards. Compared with the 2007 AQMP, the 2012 AQMP utilizes revised emissions inventory projections that use 2008 as the base year. Since the 2007 AQMP was finalized new area La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-9 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS source categories such as liquid propane gas (LPG) transmission losses, storage tank and pipeline cleaning and degassing, and architectural colorants, were created and included in the emissions inventories. Composting waste was revised and now includes the emissions from green waste composting covered under SCAQMD Rule 1133.3. The 2012 AQMP also includes analysis of several additional sources of GHG emissions such as landfills and could also assist in reaching the GHG target goals in the AB32 Scoping Plan. SCAQMD Working Group Since neither CARB nor the OPR has developed GHG emissions threshold, the SCAQMD formed a Working Group to develop significance thresholds related to GHG emissions. At the September 28, 2010 Working Group meeting, the SCAQMD released its most current version of the draft GHG emissions thresholds, which recommends a tiered approach that provides a quantitative annual thresholds of 10,000 MTCO2e for industrial uses. In order to assist local agencies with direction on GHG emissions, the SCAQMD organized a working group and adopted Rules 2700, 2701, 2702, and 3002 which are described below. Rules 2700 and 2701 The SCAQMD adopted Rules 2700 and 2701 on December 5, 2008, which establishes the administrative structure for a voluntary program designed to quantify GHG emission reductions. Rule 2700 establishes definitions for the various terms used in Regulation XXVII — Global Climate Change. Rule 2701 provides specific protocols for private parties to follow to generate certified GHG emission reductions for projects within the district. Approved protocols include forest projects, urban tree planting, and manure management. The SCAQMD is currently developing additional protocols for other reduction measures. For a GHG emission reduction project to qualify, it must be verified and certified by the SCAQMD Executive Officer, who has 60 days to approve or deny the Plan to reduce GHG emissions. Upon approval of the Plan, the Executive Officer issues required to issue a certified receipt of the GHG emission reductions within 90 days. Rule 2702 The SCAQMD adopted Rule 2702 on February 6, 2009, which establishes a voluntary air quality investment program from which SCAQMD can collect funds from parties that desire certified GHG emission reductions, pool those funds, and use them to purchase or fund GHG emission reduction projects within two years, unless extended by the Governing Board. Priority will be given to projects that result in co -benefit emission reductions of GHG emissions and criteria or toxic air pollutants within environmental justice areas. Further, this voluntary program may compete with the cap -and - trade program identified for implementation in CARB's Scoping Plan, or a federal cap and trade program. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-10 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Rule 3002 The SCAQMD amended Rule 3002 on November 5, 2010 to include facilities that emit greater than 100,000 tons per year of CO2e are required to apply for a Title V permit by July 1, 2011. A Title V permit is for facilities that are considered major sources of emissions. Although the SCAQMD is responsible for regional air quality planning efforts, it does not have the authority to directly regulate air quality issues associated with plans and new development projects throughout the South Coast Air Basin. Instead, this is controlled through local jurisdictions in accordance with the CEQA. In order to assist local jurisdictions with air quality compliance issues the CEQA Air Quality Handbook (SCAQMD CEQA Handbook), prepared by the SCAQMD, 1993, with the most current updates found at the agency's website (http://www.agmd.gov/ceqa/hdbk.html), and was developed in accordance with the projections and programs of the AQMP. The purpose of the SCAQMD CEQA Handbook is to assist Lead Agencies, as well as consultants, project proponents, and other interested parties in evaluating a proposed project's potential air quality impacts. Specifically, the SCAQMD CEQA Handbook explains the procedures that the SCAQMD recommends be followed for the environmental review process required by CEQA. The SCAQMD CEQA Handbook provides direction on how to evaluate potential air quality impacts, how to determine whether these impacts are significant, and how to mitigate these impacts. The SCAQMD intends that by providing this guidance, the air quality impacts of plans and development proposals will be analyzed accurately and consistently throughout the South Coast Air Basin, and adverse impacts will be minimized. Regional - Southern California Association of Governments The SCAG is the regional planning agency for Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, Riverside, San Bernardino and Imperial Counties and addresses regional issues relating to transportation, the economy, community development and the environment. SCAG is the federally designated Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for the majority of the southern California region and is the largest MPO in the nation. With respect to air quality planning, SCAG has prepared the Regional Transportation Plan and Regional Transportation Improvement Plan (RTIP), which addresses regional development and growth forecasts. These plans form the basis for the land use and transportation components of the AQMP, which are utilized in the preparation of air quality forecasts and in the consistency analysis included in the AQMP. The Regional Transportation Plan, Regional Transportation Improvement Plan, and AQMP are based on projections originating within the City and County General Plans. Local — City of La Quinta La Quinta has adopted a Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan that includes a comprehensive Inventory of greenhouse gas emissions generated citywide, including those generated by local government activities. Future emissions of greenhouse gases are projected, reduction targets set, and policies La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-11 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS and programs are proposed as part of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan. To be consistent with AB 32 and Executive Order S-3-05, the reduction target is to achieve 1990 level emissions by 2020, and 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. As part of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan, the City conducted a City-wide and municipal specific inventory. Given that accurate data for 1990 was not readily available and there were some disadvantages to back -casting, the preferred approach was to use 2005 as the base year, with a reduction target of 10 percent below 2005 levels. To quantify the reductions that will be necessary in order to achieve the target, a 2020 forecast under business as usual conditions was conducted. The 2020 forecast shows what the City-wide and municipal -specific GHG emissions would be, assuming growth and development, under business as usual conditions (that is to say under current operating conditions). The difference between emissions forecast for 2020 and the reduction target emission level of 10 percent below 2005 levels yields the emission quantity required to achieve the target. Achieving a reduction target below 2005 levels requires that all new development not contribute emissions, and existing GHG emitters reduce emissions by over 10 percent. Alternatively, and more practically, new development limits emissions to the greatest extent feasible, and existing emitters make up the difference needed to achieve targeted reductions through retrofits, equipment upgrades, and conservation. Given that the City of La Quinta Is approximately 80 percent built out, most of the City's emissions are, and will be generated by existing development. Reductions achieved for this sector would yield the greatest results. Consistent with the statewide effort to reduce emission levels to 80 percent of 1990 missions, the 2035 target relative to 2005 is set at 28 percent. The City intends to reduce emission levels to 28 percent of 2005 levels by the year 2035. The City is committed to leading by example and has identified a number of policies and programs that will be enacted to curb GHG emissions. Efforts include the development and implementation of programs; collection, review and monitoring of data; and periodic generation of reports to track progress towards achieving reduction targets. The goal is to reduce GHG emissions citywide in an ongoing effort that will require staff time, funding, community participation and other resources. The effort to reduce GHG emissions and successful implementation of programs to achieve that goal will result in a more livable vibrant community where enhanced air quality economic vitality, and sustainable growth is realized. For new projects in the Village Build -out Plan project area that are consistent with the General Plan, City staff can assist project applicants in identifying reduction measures and incorporating design features that implement the GHG Reduction Plan. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-12 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS 5.6.3 Applicable Goals and Policies GOAL AQ -1 A reduction in all air emissions generated within the City. Policy AQ -1.7 Greenhouse gas emissions associated with a development project shall demonstrate adherence to the City's GHG Reduction Plan. Policy AQ -1.8 The City shall adopt a comprehensive greenhouse gas reduction plan that sets forth reduction targets, timelines, and measures to achieve targets. Program AQ -1.8.a: Implement the GHG reduction measures detailed in the GHG Reduction Plan. GOAL H-6.1 Provide a regulatory framework that facilitates and encourages energy and water conservation through sustainable site planning, project design, and green technologies and building materials. Policy H-6.1 Promote higher density and compact developments that increase energy efficiency and reduce land consumption. Policy H-6.2 Facilitate housing development and rehabilitation that conserves natural resources and minimizes greenhouse gas emissions. Policy H-6.3 Encourage and enforce green building regulations or incentives that do not serve as constraints to the development or rehabilitation of housing. Policy H-6.4 Focus sustainability efforts on measures and techniques that also assist the occupant in reducing energy costs, therefore reducing housing costs. Policy H-6.5 Use and encourage emerging technologies to reduce high demands for electricity and natural gas including use of passive solar devices and where feasible other renewable energy technologies (e.g., biomass, wind, and geothermal). Program H -6.5.a: Green and Sustainable Lo Quinta Program - The City Council has identified the conservation of natural resources as a critical concern in Lo Quinta. In July 2007 the City La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-13 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Council directed staff to initiate the development of the Green and Sustainable La Quinta Program, a comprehensive program to reduce the environmental impact of existing structures, rehabilitation efforts, and new construction. Progress to date includes participating in local energy reduction and water conservation programs. The formal Green and Sustainable Program may include energy conserving standards for street widths, streetscapes, and landscaping to reduce heat loss. Energy consumption in existing homes could be improved by incentivizing energy ---efficient retrofits prior to the resale of homes. • Objective: Implement green goals, policies, and programs that accurately represent the City's direction in resource conservation and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions. Implement design standards for residential and commercial structures that encourage solar protection to directly result in energy conservation. • Timing: As projects are proposed • Funding Source: General Fund • Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department Policy CIR-2.2 Encourage reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by reducing vehicle miles traveled and vehicle hours of delay by increasing or encouraging the use of alternative modes and transportation technologies, and implement and manage a hierarchy of Complete Street multimodal transportation infrastructure and programs to deliver improved mobility and reduce GHG emissions. 5.6.4 Project Impact Analysis Thresholds of Significance The following thresholds or criteria are derived from Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, and are used to determine the level of potential effect. The significance determination is based on the recommended criteria set forth in Section 15064 of the CEQA Guidelines. For analysis purposes, build- out of the La Village would have a significant effect on greenhouse gas emissions if it is determined that the project will: a. Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment; or b. Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-14 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS a. Generate greenhouse gases, either directly or indirectly Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will result in the emission of greenhouse gases through the combustion of fossil fuels during operation of vehicles, the generation of electricity at power plants, combustion of natural gas, and the transportation of water. GHG emissions were calculated based on the parameters described above. A summary of the results are shown in Table 5.6-2, Unmitigated Project -Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Table 5.6-2 Unmitigated Project -Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions Category Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Metric Tons/Year) Bio -0O2 NonBio-CO2 CO2 CH4 N20 CO2e Area Sources' 0.00 886.86 886.86 0.03 0.02 892.47 Energy Usage 0.00 11,113.17 11,113.17 0.25 0.07 11,138.90 Mobile Sources3 0.00 22,592.75 22,592.75 0.63 0.00 22,605.94 Solid Waste 285.36 0.00 285.36 16.86 0.00 639.52 Waters 44.22 1,602.54 1,646.76 4.58 0.11 1,778.51 Construction 0.00 866.03 866.03 0.06 0.00 867.31 Total Emissions 1 329.59 1 37,061.35 1 37,390.94 1 22.41 1 0.20 37,922.64 Draft SCAQMD Threshold 3,000 Exceeds Threshold? Yes Emissions per Service Population (SP) 7.4 SCAQMD 2035 Target Service Population (SP) Threshold (MTCO2e/SP/year) 3.0 Exceeds Threshold? Yes Source: Inc. Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 12, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 (Appendix 8) Notes: 1. Area sources consist of GHG emissions from consumer products, architectural coatings, and landscape equipment. 2. Energy usage consist of GHG emissions from electricity and natural gas usage. 3. Mobile sources consist of GHG emissions from vehicles. 4. Solid waste includes the CO2 and CH4 emissions created from the solid waste placed in landfills. 5. Water includes GHG emissions from electricity used for transport of water and processing of wastewater. 6. Construction GHG emissions CO2e based on a 30 year amortization rate. As shown in Table 5.6-2 the project's unmitigated emissions for buildout Year 2035 would be 37,922.64 MTCO2e per year with 7.4 MTCO2e/SP/year. According to the threshold shown in Table 5.6-2, a cumulative global climate change impact would occur if the GHG emissions created from the on-going operations would exceed the screening threshold of 3,000 metric tons per year of CO2e and the SCAQMD 2035 Target Service Population Threshold of 3.0 MTCO2e/SP/year. Because the emissions exceed SCAQMD thresholds, mitigation will be required and will be focused primarily on implementation of California Green Building Standards Code. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-15 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS California Green Building Standards Code On January 12, 2010, the State Building Standards Commission unanimously adopted updates to the California Green Building Standards Code, which went into effect on January 1, 2011. The Code is a comprehensive and uniform regulatory code for all residential, commercial and school buildings. The California Green Building Standards Code does not prevent a local jurisdiction from adopting a more stringent code as state law provides methods for local enhancements. The Code recognizes that many jurisdictions have developed existing construction and demolition ordinances, and defers to them as the ruling guidance provided they provide a minimum 50 -percent diversion requirement. The Code also provides exemptions for areas not served by construction and demolition recycling infrastructure. State building code provides the minimum standard that buildings need to meet in order to be certified for occupancy. Enforcement is generally through the local building official. The California Green Building Standards Code (Code section in parentheses) requires: • Water Efficiency and Conservation [Indoor Water Use (4.303.1)]. Fixtures and fixture fittings reducing the overall use of potable water within the building by at least 20 percent shall be provided. • Water Efficiency and Conservation [Outdoor Water Use (4.304.1)]. Irrigation Controllers. Automatic irrigation system controllers for landscaping provided by the builder and installed at the time of final inspection. • Construction Waste Reduction of at least 50 percent (4.408.1). Recycle and/or salvage for reuse a minimum of 50 percent of the nonhazardous construction and demolition waste in accordance with either Section 4.408.2, 4.408.3 or 4.408.4; OR meet a more stringent local construction and demolition waste management ordinance. Documentation is required per Section 4.408.5. • Materials pollution control (4.504.1 — 4.504.6). Low -pollutant emitting interior finish materials such as paints, carpet, vinyl flooring and particleboard. • Installer and Special Inspector Qualifications (702.1-702.2). Mandatory special installer inspector qualifications for installation and inspection of energy systems (e.g., heat furnace, air conditioner, mechanical equipment). The data provided in Table 5.6-3, Year 2035 Mitigated Project -Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions, shows that the Village Build -out Plan's mitigated year 2035 emissions would be approximately 27,111.64 metric tons of CO2e per year; and at 5.3 MTCO2e/SP/year, would still exceed the SCAQMD 2035 Target Service Population threshold of 3.0 MTCO2e/SP/year for projects. The mitigated emissions values also incorporate the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association - based land use and site enhancement measures available for reductions through CalEEMod. However, as the mitigated project -related GHG emissions exceed the Tier 4 SCAQMD 2035 target service population La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-16 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS threshold, impacts from project -related GHGs through implementation of the Village Build -out Plan are considered to be significant and unavoidable. Table 5.6-3 Year 2035 Mitigated Project -Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions Category Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Metric Tons/Year) Bio -0O2 NonBio-CO2 CO2 CH4 N20 CO2e Area Sources' 0.00 886.86 886.86 0.03 0.02 892.47 Energy Usage2 0.00 9,612.40 9,612.40 0.22 0.06 9,634.36 Mobile Sources3 0.00 13,884.16 13,884.16 0.40 0.00 13,892.59 Solid Waste4 142.68 0.00 142.68 8.43 0.00 319.76 Waters 35.38 1,364.21 1,399.59 3.66 0.09 1,505.15 Construction 0.00 866.03 866.03 0.06 0.00 867.31 Total Emissions 178.06 26,613.66 26,791.72 12.81 0.16 27,111.64 Project's Percent Reduction from 2005 Baseline 54.2 Percent Reduction Threshold from GHG Reduction Plan 28 Meets Reduction Threshold? Yes Emissions per Service Population (SP) 5.3 SCAQMD 2035 Target Service Population (SP) Threshold (MTCO2e/SP/year) 3.0 Exceeds Threshold? Yes Source: Inc. Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 14, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 Notes: 1. Area sources consist of GHG emissions from consumer products, architectural coatings, and landscape equipment. 2. Energy usage consist of GHG emissions from electricity and natural gas usage. 3. Mobile sources consist of GHG emissions from vehicles. 4. Solid waste includes the CO2 and CH4 emissions created from the solid waste placed in landfills. 5. Water includes GHG emissions from electricity used for transport of water and processing of wastewater. 6. Construction GHG emissions CO2e based on opening year emissions and a 30 year amortization rate. b. Conflict with any applicable plan, policy, or regulation of an agency adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases The City of La Quinta Draft Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan is the applicable plan adopted by the City for the purpose of reducing the emissions of GHGs. To determine if the project's GHG emissions will conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of GHGs, the project's year 2035 mitigated and regulated emissions (Table 5.6-3 above) were compared to the project's baseline (2005) GHG emissions as shown in Table 5.6-4, Year 2035 Baseline Project -Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions, to ensure that the project's year 2035 emissions are 28 percent below 2005 levels by 2035. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-17 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Table 5.6-4 Year 2005 Baseline Project -Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions Category Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Metric Tons/Year) Bio -0O2 NonBio-CO2 CO2 CH4 N20 CO2e Area Sources' 0.00 886.86 886.86 0.04 0.02 892.67 Energy Usage 0.00 11,113.17 11,113.17 0.25 0.07 11,138.90 Mobile Sources3 0.00 43,846.81 43,846.81 3.29 0.00 43,915.97 Solid Waste 285.36 0.00 285.36 16.86 0.00 639.52 Waters 1 44.22 1,602.54 1 1,646.76 1 4.58 1 0.11 1,778.51 Construction 0.00 866.03 866.03 0.06 0.00 867.31 Total Emissions 329.59 58,315.42 58,645.00 25.09 0.20 59,232.89 Source: Inc. Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 13, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 Notes: 1. Area sources consist of GHG emissions from consumer products, architectural coatings, and landscape equipment. 2. Energy usage consist of GHG emissions from electricity and natural gas usage. 3. Mobile sources consist of GHG emissions from vehicles. 4. Solid waste includes the CO2 and CH4 emissions created from the solid waste placed in landfills. 5. Water includes GHG emissions from electricity used for transport of water and processing of wastewater. 6. Construction GHG emissions CO2e based on opening year emissions and a 30 year amortization rate. The baseline emissions were estimated only for operations and in a similar manner as described above; however, the operational year was selected as 2005 based on the City of La Quinta GHG Reduction Plan methodology. No reductions, emissions -reducing design features, or mitigation were used to run the year 2005 analysis. The summary of baseline emissions in Table 5.6-4 included the construction -related GHG emissions for year 2035 as calculated for opening year. The project's emissions for the baseline year would be 59,232.89 MTCO2e per year as opposed to the project's mitigated 2035 emissions which would be lowered to 27,111.64 MTCO2e per year. With mitigation and compliance with regulation (such as Pavley, the Renewable Energy Standard, compliance with Green Building Standards, and 2013 Title 24 standards [approximately 25 percent more efficient than 2008 Title 24 standards for residential uses) etc.], the Village Build -out Plan year 2035 mitigated emissions would be reduced by 54.2 percent from baseline (2005) emissions; which meets the City of La Quinta GHG Reduction Plan threshold of a 28 percent reduction from baseline emissions by 2035. Therefore, with incorporation of Mitigation Measures GHG-1 through GHG-7, implementation of the Village Build -out Plan would maintain consistency with Goal AQ -1 and would not conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of GHGs. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-18 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS 5.6.5 Cumulative Impacts The evaluation of greenhouse gasses for a project is an evaluation of a project's contribution to global climate change. Therefore, no additional analysis is required. 5.6.6 Mitigation Measures GHG-1 Project applicants shall provide sidewalks within the project boundary and along the off- site roadway improvements where these are lacking. GHG-2 Project applicants shall ensure that all building structures meet or exceed 2013 Title 24, Part 6 Standards and meet Green Building Code Standards, or more stringent standards if in place at the time building permits are issued. GHG-3 Project applicants shall ensure that all faucets, toilets and showers installed in the proposed structures utilize low -flow fixtures that would reduce indoor water demand by 20 percent per CalGreen Standards to the satisfaction of the Building Department. GHG-4 Project applicants shall ensure that ENERGY STAR -compliant appliances are installed where appliances are required on-site. GHG-5 Project applicants shall implement recycling programs that reduce waste to landfills by a minimum of 75 percent. GHG-6 Project applicants shall install high -efficiency lighting be installed that is at least 10 percent more efficient than standard lighting. GHG-7 To the extent feasible, project applicants shall use paints and coatings with a VOC content lower than SCAQMD Rule 1113 requires for application to surfaces of residential dwelling units and commercial units within project boundaries. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting in New Development Projects A. A report of emission reductions achieved shall be provided in the annual review of the General Plan. Responsible Parties: Planning Division and SCAQMD. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-19 August 2016 5.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS 5.6.7 Level of Significance after Mitigation A Statement of Overriding Considerations was adopted with the adoption of the General Plan. Overriding considerations 3 and 4 specifically apply to Greenhouse Gasses as follows: 3. Impacts identified as significant are generally associated with normal growth and progress and would be much more severe without implementation of the proposed General Plan update. 4. Implementation of the General Plan update will further enhance the quality of life necessary to attract new residents, businesses and visitors to the City, and will generally promote increased investment and development, jobs associated with new and/or expanded construction, and the provision of public services and facilities for a larger population base, and further economic development within the City. The La Quinta Village EIR will utilize these overriding conditions from the General Plan EIR. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.6-20 August 2016 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 5.7 Hazards and Hazardous Materials 5.7.1 Introduction The La Quinta Village serves as the traditional core of the City and consists of typical downtown land uses including residential, commercial, offices, community facilities, recreational, and vacant land. In any urbanized area, the potential for exposure to hazards and hazardous material is always present due to commerce, transportation and distribution of products, and use of hazardous materials. The Village is not immune to these hazards, as numerous businesses and households use hazardous materials for commerce and daily living, and also from the transport of hazardous waste materials (e.g. waste from doctor's offices) through the City and region. This section assesses impacts associated with hazards and hazardous materials on new growth likely to occur as a result of implementing the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan. Sources used in the preparation of this section are identified in Chapter 9, References. 5.7.2 Existing Conditions Hazardous Materials Management Hazardous waste is any liquid, solid, gas, or sludge that is potentially dangerous to human health and the environment, including everyday commercial products, such as pesticides, cleaning fluids, and household sprays, as well as byproducts of manufacturing processes and materials used in doctor/dentist offices that may then be transported as bio -hazardous waste. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified hazardous waste into four types including listed wastes, characteristic wastes, universal wastes, and mixed wastes. Listed wastes include wastes from common manufacturing and industrial processes, waste from specific industries such as petroleum refining or pesticide manufacturing, and discarded commercial products. Characteristic wastes include non -listed wastes that exhibit ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity. Universal wastes include items such as batteries, mercury -containing equipment, and fluorescent lamps and bulbs. Mixed wastes contain radioactive and hazardous waste components. All hazardous waste poses a threat to humans and the environment, and therefore is regulated by federal, state and local programs. Regulatory Setting Federal Programs The EPA has been given authority and responsibility to regulate hazardous waste by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (RCRA). Through the Act, the EPA is responsible for La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.7-1 August 2016 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS monitoring the generation, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. Amendments to the RCRA, including the 1984 Federal Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments, and those established in 1986, forced the EPA to increase enforcement of underground storage tanks for petroleum and other hazardous substances, focus on waste minimization programs, such as phasing out hazardous wastes from landfills, and finally mandating corrective measures regarding the release of hazardous waste. More recent EPA efforts and responsibilities for managing hazardous waste include management of wastes from homeland security incidents. The Waste Management for Homeland Security Incidents Act requires EPA to provide technical support to Federal, state, local, and tribal authorities on waste management and cleanup efforts resulting from natural disasters, terrorist attacks, major accidents, and disease outbreaks. The main responsibility of the EPA is to promote pre -planning efforts to deal will hazardous waste disasters and encourage various stakeholders to prepare for natural and man- made disasters. The EPA is also required to review emergency response plans for Federal agencies, and participate in exercises with Federal, state, local and tribal emergency responders. State Programs The California Certified Unified Program Agencies (CUPA) is a collection of state and regional agencies in charge of regulating hazardous waste. They are responsible for the administration, permits, inspection and enforcement of various environmental and emergency management programs, including the Underground Storage Tank Program, the Aboveground Petroleum Storage Act Program, Hazardous Materials Release Response Plans, and Hazardous Waste Generator and Onsite Hazardous Waste Treatment Programs. The California Environmental Protection Agency (CaIEPA) is responsible for administrating and certifying the CUPA's. Two state agencies that are also heavily involved with CUPA activities include the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) is responsible for protecting public health and the environment from hazardous waste generated in California. They regulate under the authority of the federal RCRA of 1976 and the California Health and Safety Code. The DTSC operates a variety of programs including the following: - Overseeing site cleanups at improperly managed waste sites. - Ensuring those who generate, handle, transport, store and dispose of hazardous waste do so properly. - Enforcement actions against those who fail to manage hazardous waste appropriately. - Exploring and promoting pollution prevention and encouraging reuse and recycling. - Evaluating soil, water and air samples at sites and developing new analytical methods - Practicing other environmental sciences, including toxicology, risk assessment, and technology development - Involving the public in DTSC's decision-making. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.7-2 August 2016 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS DTSC is required to compile and update each year, or as appropriate, a list of hazardous waste sites pursuant to the Cortese Lists under Government Code Section 65962.5(a). The DTSC has created the EnviroStor database of properties throughout California that may be contaminated. There are no hazardous waste sites in La Quinta that are listed pursuant to Section 65962.5(a). The closest listed site is the Foster -Gardner facility in Coachella, located south of Avenue 50 between Highway 86 and Highway 111. The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) is responsible for regulating wastewater discharges to surface waters and groundwater. This includes discharges from all construction, industrial, municipal, and agricultural activities. The SWRCB delegates these responsibilities to various regional water quality control boards throughout California. La Quinta falls under the jurisdiction of the Colorado River Basin Regional Water Quality Control Board, Region 7 (RWQCB). The Colorado River Basin Regional Water Quality Control Board is responsible for overseeing corrective actions associated with leaks and improper disposal from underground storage tanks, such as gas station tanks, and provides assistance to County of Riverside Department of Environmental Health on underground storage leaks. Regional Programs The Riverside County Department of Environmental Health (DEH) provides programs and services related to protecting public health, safety and the environment. Within the DEH are two divisions, District Environmental Service, and Environmental Protection and Oversight. The Environmental Protection and Oversight Division (EPO) is responsible for handling and regulating hazardous materials, land use, water systems, underground storage tanks, solid waste and business emergency plans and is responsible for managing a list of all hazardous waste generators in the County. As of December 8, 2010, La Quinta had 50 generators of hazardous waste. Generators include golf courses, gas stations, cleaners, grocery stores, car dealerships and city maintenance facility yards. Emergency response in La Quinta involves numerous State, regional, local, and non-profit agencies whose goal is to prepare local residents for emergencies caused by natural or human incidents. The State of California passed the California Emergency Services Act in 1970 to provide the basic legal authorities for emergency management in the State. The Act created the Governor's Office of Emergency Services (OES), which serves as the lead agency for emergency management and to organize all levels of government, businesses, community organizations and volunteers to deal with local emergencies. The County of Riverside operates the Office of Emergency Services through Riverside County Fire Department. Riverside County OES is responsible for mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery activities from hazards and threats occurring in Riverside County. In order to coordinate efforts relating to hazardous materials management, the County has developed a Hazardous Waste Management Plan (HWMP), which addresses the proper disposal, La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.7-3 August 2016 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS processing, handling, storage and treatment of hazardous materials. The City has also adopted the HWMP and implements it at the local level. In the City, hazardous materials are limited to small quantity generators (those generating less than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month), ranging from individual households which store cleaning solutions and automotive products, to service stations and medical clinics, which may store or use larger quantities of hazardous materials. Hazardous Materials Business Emergency Plan All facilities in Riverside County that handle or store hazardous materials in a quantity determined by State law and regulation are to report such use or storage to the County of Riverside Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) and the DEH before the initiation of operation of their business. In Riverside County the CUPA is the Fire Department. The amount of detail required to be reported depends on whether or not a facility is subject to a State Hazardous Materials Business Emergency Plan (HMBEP). A HMBEP is a document containing detailed information on the storage of hazardous materials at a facility. Chapter 6.95 of the California Health & Safety Code (HSC) and Title 19, Division 2, of the California Code of Regulations (CCR) require that facilities which use or store such materials at or above reporting thresholds (see below) submit this information. The intent of the HMBEP is to satisfy federal and State Community Right -To -Know laws and provide detailed information for use by emergency responders. All persons at the facility who are qualified to serve as emergency coordinators must be thoroughly familiar with the contents and use of the HMBEP, with the operations and activities of the facility, and with the locations of all hazardous materials records maintained by the facility. The owner of a facility that would be subject to a HMBEP must prepare and submit a copy to the CUPA for each site that handles any individual hazardous material or mixture containing a hazardous material which has a quantity at any time during the reporting year equal to or greater than: • 500 pounds or more of any solid hazardous material [HSC §25503.5(a)] • For liquid hazardous materials: - More than 55 gallons of any type or 275 gallons aggregate quantity on site for lubricating oils as defined by HSC §25503.5(b)(2)(B): [HSC §25503.5(b)(2)(A)] - 55 gallons or more of any other liquid, including waste oil. [HSC §25503.5(a)] • For hazardous material gases: - More than 1,000 cubic feet (at standard temperature and pressure) of Oxygen, Nitrogen, or Nitrous Oxide stored/handled at a physician, dentist, podiatrist, veterinarian, or pharmacist's place of business. [HSC §25503.5(b)(1)] La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.7-4 August 2016 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS - More than 300 gallons of Propane used for the sole purpose of heating the employee working areas within the facility. [HSC §25503.5(b)] - 200 cubic feet or more of any other gas. [HSC §25503.5(a)] • Amounts of radioactive materials requiring an emergency plan under Parts 30, 40, or 70 of Title 10 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) or applicable quantities specified in items 1, 2, or 3, above, whichever amount is smaller. [HSC §25503.5(a)] • Applicable federal threshold planning quantities for extremely hazardous substances listed in 40 CFR Part 355, Appendix A. Note: Retail (Consumer) Products packaged for direct distribution to, and use by, the general public are exempt from HMBEP requirements except where the local agency determines otherwise pursuant to HSC §25503.5(c)(1). The HMBEP must contain the following elements: • Type of business; • Description of activities; • List of hazardous materials on-site; • Business owner/operator identification; • Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (One page per chemical); • A map of the facilities showing the location(s), floor plans and where hazardous materials are stored and used; • An emergency response/contingency plan, with an evacuation plan; • Primary and secondary emergency contact information • An employee training plan; and • Recordkeeping. Hazardous Waste Transportation There are four major transportation routes through or near the City of La Quinta commonly used for transporting hazardous waste. The Union Pacific Railroad and Interstate 10 are located approximately 6 miles north of the La Quinta Village area. The Union Pacific Railroad runs adjacent to Interstate 10. Highway 111 runs east to west approximately 2.6 miles north of the La Quinta Village. Finally, State Route 86 is located east of La Quinta, approximately 8 miles east of the La Quinta Village, and provides regional access to the Imperial Valley. Hazardous waste cleanup on transportation routes is the responsibility of various State and federal agencies. Caltrans has created the Hazardous Waste Management program to assist local districts statewide with management and cleanup of hazardous materials encountered on roads that are under Caltrans responsibility. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) and the US Department of Transportation are responsible for regulating the shipment of hazardous waste by requiring La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.7-5 August 2016 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS appropriate labeling, packaging, and loading of hazardous materials. The CHP also requires motor carriers and drivers involved in transporting hazardous materials to obtain a hazardous materials transportation license. The United State Department of Transportation has created the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration Office of Hazardous Materials Safety (OHMS) to ensure safe transport of hazardous materials by air, rail, highway and water. Existing Public and Private Airports The City of La Quinta is located near two airports: the Bermuda Dunes Airport and the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport. The Bermuda Dunes Airport is a small privately owned airport located about 5.5 miles north of the Village Build -out Plan project area, just south of Interstate 10, and west of Jefferson Street in the Bermuda Dunes community. The Bermuda Dunes Airport has one east - west runway measuring approximately 5,000 feet in length. The Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport is a public airport located about 9 miles east of the project area, east of Harrison Street and between Airport Boulevard on the north and Avenue 60 on the south. The airport is a general aviation airport and handles approximately 209 flights a day. There are two runways, including Runway 17-35, which is an 8,500 foot north -south runway, and Runway 12-30, which is a smaller 4,995 -foot northwest -southeast runway. The majority of flights are from single engine aircraft, and there are no commercial flights at the airport. Fire Hazards Fire hazards exist where wildland areas are adjacent to, or are intermixed with urbanized areas. Many of these wildland areas include rugged topography with highly flammable vegetation. La Quinta is situated at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains. However, these areas are considered low wildfire zones. The open space and wilderness areas on the western portion of the City are made up primarily of Granitic rock and sparse desert vegetation. Therefore, there is limited vegetation to burn that could cause a major wildfire. The flat urbanized areas of La Quinta, including the La Quinta Village, are considered very low wildfire risk areas. 5.7.3 Applicable Goals and Policies Goal HAZ-1 Protection of residents from the potential impacts of hazardous and toxic materials. Policy HAZ-1.1 The storage, transport, use and disposal of hazardous materials shall comply with all City, County, State and federal standards. Program HAZ-1.1.b: Development plans for projects which may store, use or transport hazardous materials shall continue to be routed to the Fire Department and the Department of Environmental Health for review. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.7-6 August 2016 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Policy HAZ-1.2 To the extent empowered, the City shall regulate the generation, delivery, use and storage of hazardous materials. Program HAZ-1.2a: All facilities which produce, utilize, store or transport hazardous materials shall be constructed in strict conformance with all applicable Building and Fire Codes. Policy HAZ-1.3 Support Household Hazardous Waste disposal. Program HAZ-1.3.a: Continue to work with the County to assure regular household hazardous waste disposal events are held in and around the City. Program HAZ-1.3.b: Educate the City's residents on the proper disposal of household hazardous waste through the City's newsletter and by providing educational materials at City Hall. 5.7.4 Project Impact Analysis Development and redevelopment associated with the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan will potentially increase impacts from hazards and hazardous materials due to an increase in urban activity. This section will analyze possible impacts associated with the increase in density of commercial and residential land uses in a mixed-use environment, as proposed in the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan. Thresholds of Significance The following standards and criteria for establishing the significance of potential impacts on hazards and hazardous materials were derived from the CEQA Guidelines, Appendix G. Development and redevelopment in the Village Build -out Plan project area would have a significant effect from hazards or hazardous materials if it is determined the plan will: 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. c. Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely 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. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.7-7 August 2016 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 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. a -b. Significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials; create a significant hazard to the public Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will facilitate new growth and development throughout the project area. Commercial, residential, and mixed-use development will result in an increased population of residents and non-residents that could be susceptible to hazards and hazardous materials. The amount of hazardous materials utilized by new residents within the project area will be typical of what is found within existing homes, and thus will pose minimal danger in the event of a spill or accidental release, and is not expected to create any significant hazards. Household hazardous waste can be disposed of properly through Household Hazardous Waste disposal events, or at a network of "ABOP" facilities operated by the Riverside County Department of Waste Resources. An ABOP — or Antifreeze, Batteries, Oil, Paint — facility is located in Palm Springs and is open regularly to accept these materials, as well as electronic waste. Household Hazardous Waste disposal events are held periodically at varying locations throughout the County, including the City of La Quinta. Availability of these County -hosted events not only assists in the safe disposal of household hazardous waste but also educates City residents and in turn, maintains consistency with General Plan Goal HAZ-1.3, Policy HAZ-1.3, Program HAZ-1.3a and Program HAZ- 1.3b. Commercial development and redevelopment within the project area will include businesses and development projects that use, store, and/or transport hazardous materials. As such, the Village Build -out Plan will have the potential to increase the number of people susceptible to hazards and hazardous materials. The most common commercial uses to use hazardous materials in the City are service stations, which not only use and store fuels and oils, but also operate underground storage tanks, which have the potential to contaminate soils and water supplies if not properly maintained. Other commercial users include dry cleaning operations, pool cleaning or supply stores, and automotive supply stores. Commercial users are responsible for meeting the requirements of the County Department of Environmental Health (DEH). These requirements include the proper La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.7-8 August 2016 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS disposal of hazardous materials through a number of licensed contractors specializing in these materials. In the event of a spill or leak of hazardous materials, initial response would be made by the closest fire engine company, followed by response from a dedicated Hazardous Material Response Team (HMRT). The Riverside County Fire Department operates a HMRT, which operates throughout the County and responds to incidents when necessary and thus helps maintain consistency with General Plan Goal HAZ-1 in regard to protecting residents from hazardous and toxic materials. Commercial, industrial and municipal generators of hazardous materials are regulated by federal, State, and local agencies regarding the proper use, disposal and cleanup of hazardous materials. The County DEH is responsible for managing a list of all hazardous waste generators in the County. With implementation of Mitigation Measure HAZ-1, new hazardous waste generators, if located in the project area, will be required to abide by County (DEH) policies and plans, and register on the hazardous waste generator list. Hazardous Materials Business Emergency Plan All new and existing facilities within the Village Build -out Plan project area that meet the storage quantity of hazardous materials described in the environmental setting, regarding the Hazardous Materials Business Emergency Plan, will be required to prepare a HMBEP to be routed to County DEH, the Fire Department, and the City's Building Department for review. Once approved, the HMBEP will be kept on file with the City of La Quinta and County of Riverside and thus will maintain consistency with General Plan Policy HAZ-1.1 and Program HAZ-1.2a. Therefore, with implementation of Mitigation Measure HAZ-2, compliance with requirements for the preparation of a HMBEP will result in less than significant impacts for applicable commercial development. Spill Prevention Counter -measurement Contingency Plan As a general requirement by the City and the Riverside County Fire Department, any future or existing commercial business or facility within the Village Build -out Plan project area that proposes the use of hazardous materials will be required to prepare a Spill Prevention Counter -measurement Contingency (SPCC) Plan that addresses appropriate protocol measures to contain accidental spills of hazardous materials. A SPCC spill kit will also be required to be placed onsite at the business or facility. By requiring an SPCC Plan for all development projects, the project will maintain consistency with General Plan Policy HAZ-1.1. Therefore, with implementation of Mitigation Measures HAZ-1 through HAZ-3 in compliance with federal, State, local regulations and programs available to address the safe handling of hazardous materials, impacts from implementation of Village Build -out Plan will be reduced to less than significant levels. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.7-9 August 2016 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Transport of Hazardous Material As previously discussed, the City of La Quinta is located near a network of roads, highways, and rail lines within the Coachella Valley that carry hazardous materials on a daily basis. New growth and development facilitated by the Village Build -out Plan will not increase residential population around these routes due to the fact that the project area is approximately 2.6 miles south of Highway 111, the closest hazardous materials transport route. Therefore, any accidents or spills along the designated transport routes are not expected to affect residents within the La Quinta Village. Furthermore, hazardous materials are highly regulated by various government agencies, such as Caltrans, the California Highway Patrol, and the US Department of Transportation, and cleanup and containment of these accidents is monitored by these same agencies. Emergency evacuation and response plans are developed in La Quinta to provide automated notification to residents during an emergency, including hazardous waste spills and thus would maintain consistency with Goal HAZ-1 in protecting residents from hazardous and toxic materials. Cleanup of hazardous materials, and emergency evacuation response plans as discussed above, are already in place with the City of La Quinta. As such, significant hazards to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials as a result of implementation of the Village Build -out Plan are expected to be less than significant. Hazardous Material Use and Disposal Household Hazardous Waste The La Quinta Village Build -out Plan calls for 1,230 additional residential units in the Village. These new residential units have the potential to use and store household cleaning supplies, chemicals, batteries, fluorescent bulbs, and other potentially hazardous materials. The amount of hazardous materials used by these new residential uses will be typical of what is found within existing neighborhoods throughout the region. The relatively small amount of hazardous materials and chemicals found in households may pose a minimal danger to the household during a spill or accidental release; however, these household spills and accidents are not expected to create significant hazards. Hazardous waste centers throughout the Coachella Valley, including the Burrtec Waste and Recycling Center in Palm Desert, and the Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility in Palm Springs, are available for residents to dispose of household hazardous waste and therefore will maintain consistency with General Plan Policy HAZ-1.3 and impacts will be less than significant. Non-residential Hazardous Materials The Village Build -out Plan also calls for new commercial and professional office uses that will potentially use, store, and transport hazardous materials. The Village Build -out Plan includes approximately 799,786 square feet of additional non-residential uses in the Village. All commercial, La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.7-10 August 2016 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS industrial and municipal generators of hazardous materials are regulated by federal, State, and local agencies regarding the proper use, disposal and cleanup of hazardous materials. Riverside County DEH is responsible for managing a list of all hazardous waste generators in the County. New or existing non-residential businesses or facilities that qualify as hazardous waste generators in the project area will be required to abide by County DEH policies, and register on the hazardous waste generator list. This list provides residents and public officials information as to where hazardous materials are located throughout La Quinta. With continued implementation of federal, State and local regulations and programs, the Village Build -out Plan will maintain consistency with General Plan Policy HAZ-1.1 and Program HAZ-1.1b and impacts will be less than significant. C. Hazardous, Materials, Substances, or Waste near Schools Benjamin Franklin Elementary School is located within the project area at the northeast corner of Calle Tampico and Eisenhower Drive. John Adams Elementary School is located just outside of the project area on the northeast corner of Desert Club Drive and Springtime Way. John Adams Elementary School, will be closing in the summer of 2016 and will no longer operate as a school. However the school district has discussed the possibility that this school could be used as a preschool in the future. Regulatory plans, measures and facilities are included in the school district's adopted protocol for handling onsite hazardous materials and in compliance with County of Riverside CUPA. Furthermore, existing and future adjacent land use development and redevelopment within the Village Build -out Plan project area will also be required to follow similar protocol as adopted by the City. Therefore, with the implementation of Mitigation Measure HAZ-4 and compliance with federal, State and local regulations and programs for both the Village Build -out Plan and for Benjamin Franklin Elementary School, the project will maintain consistency with General Plan Goal HAZ-1, Policy HAZ-1.1 and Policy HAZ-1.1b and impacts will be less than significant. d. Hazardous Materials Sites No property within the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area is identified on the "Cortese" list of hazardous materials sites as compiled and pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and managed by CalEPA(http://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public/ accessed March 28, 2016). The closest listed site is the Foster -Gardner facility in Coachella, located south of Avenue 50 between Highway 86 and Highway 111.Hazardous materials at this site are associated with the airport facilities, as well as historic Army and Navy uses. New development and redevelopment within the project area will not be located on existing hazardous materials sites. Therefore, hazardous material site impacts in regard to the implementation of the Village Build -out Plan are considered less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.7-11 August 2016 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS e -f. Conflict with Public Airports and Private Air Strips The Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport is located approximately 8.3 miles east of the eastern boundary of the project area. The County of Riverside has prepared the Riverside County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan, which provides policies for Airport Influence Areas for all airports in the County. The project area is not located within any zones contained in the Airport Land Use Commission Compatibility Plan. Therefore, with implementation of the Village Build -out Plan, there will be no impacts associated with Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport. The Bermuda Dunes Airport is a private airfield located approximately 5.5 miles north of the La Quinta Village, along the south side of Interstate 10 and west of Jefferson Street. The 5,000 -foot runway is oriented in an east- west direction, and approaches and takeoff patterns generally do not affect any portion of the City. According to the Riverside County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan, the La Quinta Village is not located within the zones affecting the airport. Therefore, implementation of the Build -out Plan would have no impact. g. Conflict with Emergency Response and Evacuation Plans The City currently contracts with the Riverside County Fire Department for emergency services, and the City's Emergency Services Division is responsible for preparing the community for natural and man-made disasters and emergencies. The Village Build -out Plan will facilitate new development, and therefore will contribute to an increase in population and in turn, will have the potential to affect emergency response plans and emergency evacuation plans. To maintain consistency with General Plan GOAL HAZ-1, the City prepared the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) to prepare for emergencies, and has instituted the Code RED notification system to help notify the public, through telephone calls, about emergencies such as water contamination, evacuation notices, wildfires, bomb threats, hazardous spills, and other emergency situations. The City is also involved in the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program. New residents of La Quinta, as a result of new development brought on by implementation of the Village Build -out Plan, may allow for more volunteers for groups such as CERT. Emergency accessibility for fire and medical emergency response services will be crucial for all new and proposed redeveloped projects within the project area. Appropriate means of accessibility and emergency evacuation routing will have to be demonstrated in the project plans to the satisfaction of the Fire Department. Therefore, with the City's commitment to EOP and CERT protocol in the project area and implementation of Mitigation Measure HAZ-5, impacts in regard to adopted emergency response plans or emergency evacuation plans will be reduced to less than significant levels. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.7-12 August 2016 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS h. Wildland Fires The La Quinta Village is situated along the southwestern edge of the Coachella Valley, and approximately 0.8 miles northeast of the base of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains. Much of the southwestern portion of the City, such as the Cove, is located near the urban-wildland interface. The wilderness areas that surround La Quinta, as well as other areas along the base of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountain ranges are made up of granitic rock and sparse desert vegetation. The sparse desert vegetation along these mountainsides does not provide the explosive fuels needed for wildfires. Therefore, development of the Build -out Plan would have no impact with regard to wildland fires. 5.7.5 Cumulative Impacts New development within the Village does not have the potential to create cumulative impacts associated with hazards and hazardous materials, hazards to the public from routine transport, use, or disposal, and in regard to conflict with emergency response and evacuation plans. Mitigation Measures HAZ-1 through HAZ-5 will assure that all new development complies with local, state, and federal regulations, comply with California Health & Safety Code (HSC) and Title 19, Division 2, of the California Code of Regulations by preparing a Hazardous Materials Business Emergency Plan (HMBEP), the preparation of a Spill Prevention Counter Measurement Contingency Plan (SPCC) and for required plan review and conditioning by the Fire Department. Therefore, with implementation of Mitigation Measures HAZ-1 through HAZ-5 and with adherence to goals, policies and programs as identified in this Section, all new development within the Village Build -out Plan will ensure that cumulative impacts would be less than significant. 5.7.6 Mitigation Measures HAZ-1 All new development projects that propose the use, transport or storage of hazardous materials in their plan of operations and are defined as a new generator of hazardous materials shall comply with all local, state, and federal regulations, as required by law. HAZ-2 In compliance with Chapter 6.95 of the California Health & Safety Code (HSC) and Title 19, Division 2, of the California Code of Regulations (CCR), all new development that proposes the storage and use of hazardous materials at or above reporting criteria thresholds shall prepare a Hazardous Materials Business Emergency Plan (HMBEP). The HMBEP shall be reviewed and approved by the County of Riverside CUPA and the Department of Environmental Health prior to the initiation of operation of the business. HAZ-3 All new development projects that propose the use and storage of hazardous materials will be required to prepare a Spill Prevention Counter Measurement Contingency Plan La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.7-13 August 2016 5.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (SPCC) that addresses appropriate protocol measures to contain accidental spills of hazardous materials. A SPCC spill kit shall also be placed onsite at the business or facility. HAZ-4 All new development and redevelopment projects within the Village Build -out Plan project area shall submit development plans and permits to the City for review, and City shall coordinate with the Desert Sands Unified School District regarding any proposed land uses that will produce hazardous waste, such as doctor's offices. HAZ-5 All project development proposals shall submit plans to the Fire Department for review and conditioning for safe accessibility of fire and ambulatory services and for appropriate evacuation routing of the project development in the event of an emergency. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting A. Development plans and permits for uses that use, transport, and/or store hazardous materials shall be submitted, reviewed, and regulated by proper agencies. Responsible Parties: Riverside County Fire Department, Riverside County Department of Environmental Health, City of La Quinta, California Certified Unified Program Agencies, CHP, and Caltrans. 5.7.7 Level of Significance after Mitigation With implementation of mitigation herein, impacts associated with hazards and hazardous materials will be reduced to less than significant levels. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.7-14 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY 5.8 Hydrology and Water Quality 5.8.1 Introduction This section discusses the existing hydrology and water quality setting in the City of La Quinta and the project area, and identifies the potential effects from implementation of the La Quinta Village Build- out Plan. Hydrological conditions in the project area have been analyzed in the City of La Quinta Focused Area Drainage Study prepared by Michael Baker International February 2016 (Appendix E), the Downtown Area Drainage Study prepared by Psomas, January 2008)(Appendix F), Coachella Valley Water District Urban Water Management Plan, July 2011, and the La Quinta Village Hydrology Study in Support of the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan (Appendix G), prepared by The Altum Group, July 2016, and are summarized herein. References used to prepare this section are included in Chapter 9, References. 5.8.2 Existing Conditions Hydrology is associated with the management of floodwaters and surface runoff, which are significantly influenced by the geography and climate of a particular locale. The local microclimate also affects the amount and intensity of precipitation and therefore plays an important role in local hydrology. The Coachella Valley, including the Village Build -out Plan project area, are situated at the western end of a tectonic depression, known as the Salton Trough, which extends from Baja California to the Salton Sea at the eastern end of the Coachella Valley. Within the City-wide area, the Valley floor encompasses a broad, gently sloping basin. This basin forms where canyons of the Santa Rosa Mountains emerge onto alluvial fans, the Whitewater River floodplain, and sediments of prehistoric lakes. The foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains rise in and adjacent to the western and southern portions of the City. Most development, including that along the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains in the western portion of the City, occurs on the Valley floor. The City, including the project area, generally enjoys a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm, dry summers. However, regional conditions are influenced by proximity to the San Bernardino, San Jacinto, and Santa Rosa Mountain ranges and associated climatic zones. Flooding can occur as a result of rapid melting of mountain snowpack. Occasional intense thunderstorms can also cause flooding. Storms occur most frequently during the winter months, between November and April, although the area also experiences monsoon storms during the summer and early fall (July through September). While generally of short duration, these storms may generate several inches of rainfall in a short period of time to localized areas, causing flooding. Rainfall in the region varies widely. In the surrounding mountains, average rainfall is approximately 25 inches annually, whereas on the Valley floor, including the project area, it averages 3 inches. Even in the absence of rain in the Valley itself, flooding can occur when runoff and associated mud and debris flows from mountain La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.8-1 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY slopes. When precipitation occurs rapidly, dry soils quickly become saturated and cannot sufficiently percolate the increased runoff. Hydrological Conditions and Flood Hazards Floodplains are meant to carry excess waters during flooding, which is a recurring, natural event. Flooding becomes a hazard when human uses encroach into floodplains. This encroachment occurs frequently since floodplains are optimal for agriculture, access to water supplies and transportation routes. Flooding is among the most destructive and costly of all natural disasters on a global level and causes more deaths per year than any other geologic hazard. Dollar -based economic losses as a result of ever-expanding development on floodplains has steadily increased over the last several decades. It is difficult to predict rainfall in the region, since it varies widely from year to year. A review of annual rainfall totals and peak streamflow gauges on the Whitewater River demonstrates this inconsistency. Although in most years, stream discharges have remained at or near zero cubic feet per second (cfs), by contrast, peak flows exceeded 10,000 cfs on November 22, 1965 and January 25, 1969. There is a potential for substantial damage when floodwaters reach such high velocities. In the City of La Quinta, flooding primarily occurs under two scenarios: 1) flash flooding along natural or man-made channels and 2) sheet flooding across the Valley floor. Brief but powerful storms can cause high peak volumes and velocities, which are often intensified by local conditions, including both the built environment, and naturally occurring landforms and geology. In La Quinta, mountain slopes comprised of impervious rock impede percolation. Water quickly collects and flows into channels on the Valley floor, often transporting with it large amounts of mud, sand, rock fragments and other debris. Flows may exceed the existing natural or man-made channel capacities, or channels are impacted by debris or structures. Water overflows channel banks, creating the condition known as sheet flow or sheet flooding. Increasing urban development in the project area would result in an increase in impervious surfaces such as buildings, sidewalks, parking lots, and roadways that reduce the area available for natural percolation. Downstream areas are then subject to water that formerly would have been absorbed. Unless new development provides storm drain systems to carry increased flows, downstream flooding risks may increase. In the City of La Quinta, these risks are especially prevalent for development downstream of canyons and the base of mountains, such as in the vicinity of the project area since surrounding mountain slopes generally receive greater levels of rainfall. Major Regional and Local Flood Control Facilities Major flood control in the City are described herein and mapped on Exhibit 5.8-1, FEMA Flood Zones and Flood Control Facilities. Exhibit 5-8.2, FEMA Flood Zones, shows the location of the project area within the larger Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-2 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Whitewater River/Coachella Valley Stormwater Channel The Whitewater River, which is called the Coachella VaIley StormwaterChanneI in the City of La Quinta, is the principal drainage course in the City, extending through the Coachella Valley for 50± miles. The channel is generally dry but may be inundated during storm events. In most locations it is unlined and portions are protected by unreinforced sand levees. Although the channel generally follows the recent historical natural river path, it deviates from this course where it passes through the northeast portion of the City between Jefferson Street and Miles Avenue. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has indicated the potential for breakout of the levee system along this reach of the river in the event of a 100 -year storm. The levee is approximately 3.5 miles northeast of the Build -out Plan project area, so failure of the levee would not impact the Village Build -out project area. Runoff from the Santa Rosa Mountains to the west/southwest flows into the Upper Bear Creek System, which is located along the southerly and westerly margins of the Cove. The system includes the Upper Bear Creek Training Dike, Upper Bear Creek Detention Basin, Bear Creek, as well as Bear Creek channel and four associated side inlet channels and a downstream drop structure. The dike diverts runoff from a 1.7 square mile drainage area, then directs it along Bear Creek to the detention basin, which has a storage capacity of 752 acre-feet. The approximately 2.5 miles long, soil -cement lined trapezoidal Bear Creek Channel receives outflows from the Basin. The channel has a 100 -year flood flow capacity, with four inlet channels on the western side that drain smaller canyons. From the channel, flows continue into the Oleander Reservoir downstream at the La Quinta Resort west of the project area thence into the La Quinta Evacuation Channel, and ultimately discharge into the Coachella Valley Stormwater Channel. Oleander Reservoir The Oleander Reservoir detention basin is located adjacent to the northwest corner of the project area in the La Quinta Resort and Club Mountain golf course. It collects runoff from the Bear Creek system as well as flows from drainage areas north and west of it. Flows then discharge into the La Quinta Evacuation Channel. In the event of a 100 -year storm, the elevation of the reservoir is projected to be 44 feet. La Quinta Resort Channel The La Quinta Resort Channel is a man-made channel generally located along the western boundary of the City northwest of the Cove. Runoff from mountains west of this area is collected along this Channel and conveyed to the Oleander Reservoir. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-3 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-4 August 2016 2sipTESc � Thl—p R mended tr genial land use ptannlVmly. irkbi aHono6 thlB map la r,u - — -- - — •�`.... si lF6ri06ttnspwsear°IhdlNla Lr tlyaibClgmiD�r: IitrKgti�rlldRr>1iRI IdrHl pppb. ` leer Blas h Sanely Ih9.++ Il Jhn rar{riim r0 W Forth In ®gnlnp, h1LYd rnguUliprR. .. .- -- - — I_ I _ I ` 1 Garth t! n i lar s IMernallortal IFC.y makes m repreaenlalmm or w —nu n garding r —• rl.r: a�umry d tF. data Ir— -hch -F_ _P,w� dorl..d_ Fa s6.11 net 6.14W under anyclrcumNanresfw aryl 7, Indirect, special, Innokmal, or --serial _ _� J tlnnug.twlkhr.�rtwnnycl.�n kryrgy Mc orllirlper{ymxc F�oF. err 1,mW . tom, tleusa ofthis map. Whitewater River . r -�r t - X levee Deep 'Canyon Stormavater C 1 '•�;-- Coachella X Valley r Stnrmwater Channel ..... La Quints Resort Channel � a Oleander Reservoir Project Site 10 Bear Creek Channel x - % le •--Avenida Bermudas x . East La Ruinta Channel - Upper Bear Creek rr Detenliin Basin Calle Tecate Detention Basin "}I -• j _ _Bear - - Creek Lake Dike No. 2_-- _ r •� i.� r` i Training, Dike _ X - •.\ ,` { ih�'� Guadalupe Dike � Training � r` _.. � h I Canal _t _ Quints Evacuation - channel A Detention Sasin X Cahui Ila • 1. = ite Noit X - Dike X + FEMA Flood Zones and Flood Control Facilities Explanation Wgh Bek Areas ® Zunc that cxurraponds[o Ore 100-ynat flood areas, determined by apprextmaie metuads. Because detailed hydraulic analyses were not perfalned, no base floodelevaNma a depths are drown. Mandatary flood insurance IF required. Zone that co esporrd to 10O year shallow il..d areas where a—ragedepdn are heaseen 1 and 3 frit iusually Som sheet flow m sloping termini-. nsandasory ilood msunarrce is required. Moderate and Low Rkk At— ®7 ne that corresponds to areas of:AO-year flood; areas of I0"r flood with average depths of less than I foot m with drainap areas lest than I square mile, and areas protected by levees Som 190 -year Good. No base flood e4-atio—a depth, an, sh— flood insurance isavailable but not required. Zorre that corr�portd m atseaso Nide of the.5olo-year flood. No base flood ekvadons u depths are shown. F" insurance isavailable but ret required. UndeWmiaed Rick Arew D 1 cane drat corresponds to urntudied areas where flood hazards are Inde. c lard, but fl—ding h p—lble. I"Imd iruuranre Fe arai Fable but not required �r L.A. f La Qulnta City Boundary f Levee � La Qulma Sphere otinfluenoe -- HFvQ or Bream For elevaHms pr depths see nriginal FFAtA Flood Insuanre Rate .Maps avallablearthe Cay, County, or www.r .Sov. N Scale: 1:84,000 ?ON 0 71M W E Feet x o z S FL—M.p:USE'%T.pW.phic MUpimmsurcSr nr TFR, 19 7 Sconce: F�jxal Finargency ryyryganrerp fancy, San Bemarctno, Fleod gores Rte ht.p;rd N-6-- =6L6Q229r. GUJ65C22d t G, p606SC22d3f5 06fMM23 r C• W VC:2232G, 09MC2233C,, 06065C1234C. 06065CMK8 OflMQ2MG,06065C22a4C, 06D650261 G• 060650NDq urm B56ltaRfS Irllemaiional Project Number 3004 Date: 2010 Source: La Quinta General Plan 2035 EIR, Figure III -10 The Altum Group FEMA Flood Hazard Zones and Flood Control Facilities La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5-8.1 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-6 August 2016 1 inch = 500 feet F� The Altum Group FEMA Flood Zones La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Project Description Exhibit 5.8-2 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-8 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY East La Quinta System The East La Quinta System is located along the southeastern edge of the Cove area, comprised of the riprap lined, trapezoidal East La Quinta Channel and several detention basins. It collects drainage from hills east and south of Calle Bermudas as well as outflows from the Calle Tecolate Detention Basin located at the southwestern point of the Cove. The system channels flow to the Avenida Bermudas Detention Basin, which manages runoff and debris from surrounding drainage areas via a 60 -inch reinforced concrete buried storm drain with 100 -year stormwater flow capacity. Flows from the basin are conveyed to the La Quinta Evacuation Channel. La Quinta Evacuation Channel The La Quinta Evacuation Channel flows northeasterly from the Bear Creek Channel, approximately 3.5 miles through developed areas of the City to the Coachella Valley Stormwater Channel. This channel is designed to capture and carry stormwater from various flood control systems in the City. There are two reaches, of which the lower is approximately 2.4 miles long within a 50 -foot wide trapezoidal earthen channel. The upper reach is a grass -lined, irregularly shaped channel approximately 1.1 miles long. La Quinta North Diversion Channel This facility is described in the City Master Drainage Plan as conveying "the Standard Project Flood (SPF) from off-site mountain areas northwest of the City southerly to the Oleander Reservoir." Lake Cahuilla Lake Cahuilla, while not a flood control facility, constitutes a major regional facility managed by the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) and is therefore considered herein as part of the evaluation of flooding hazards. Lake Cahuilla was constructed in 1969 as a reserve storage facility for irrigation water. The lake is located on approximately 135 acres at the base of the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains, between avenues 56 and 58, west of Jefferson Street. It is the termination of the Coachella Branch of the All-American irrigation canal. The Lake Cahuilla County Park, operated by Riverside County Parks and Open Space District, is located at the same site on lands leased by CVWD to the Parks District. Lake Cahuilla has a capacity of approximately 1,500 acre-feet of water at depths of 11 to 12 feet, protected by a levee system approximately 25 feet high and 100 feet wide. It is cement lined and sealed with a six-inch layer of soil cement. Lake Cahuilla contains more than 50 - acre feet of storage capacity. Local Structures Within the City of La Quinta there are a variety of local structures, including storm drains, culverts and catch basins located within private development and area streets. These facilities collect and retain stormwater and irrigation runoff, and in some cases, detain flows for eventual evaporation or infiltration. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-9 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Dikes As shown in Exhibit 5.8-1, there are several dikes located near the base of mountains which have been constructed to protect developed areas on the Valley floor from runoff from mountain slopes. In addition to the Bear Creek Training Dike, previously discussed, these include three dikes constructed by the Bureau of Reclamation: the Eastside Dike, which was constructed to protect the Coachella Branch of the All-American Canal; and Dike 2 and Dike 4, which were constructed to protect Lake Cahuilla as well as lands between Avenue 58 and Avenue 66. Dike 2 and Dike 4 total 5.2 miles, and are located south and southeast of Lake Cahuilla, respectively. Dike 4 encompasses the Guadalupe Dike and Guadalupe Training Dike. Dike 4 is accredited by FEMA; Dike 2 is not yet accredited. CVWD has constructed approximately 165 acres of groundwater recharge basins within the Dike 4 impound area. These basins comprise an important component of groundwater replenishment programs discussed in CVWD's Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) for recharge of the groundwater basin in the eastern Coachella Valley. La Quinta Village Drainage Patterns Traditionally, the Village has been developed without requiring on-site storm drain retention due to the commercial nature of the area. What this means is that commercial sites are usually entirely covered impervious surfaces (buildings and parking lots) with the exception of small landscaped areas. Therefore, commercial sites are graded so that water does not pond and stormwater runs off into the public right-of-way where it is carried downstream to a basin. In the case of the project area, this is the Oleander Basin (shown on Exhibit 5.8-1 northwest of the project area). The Altum Group's hydrology study prepared for the Build—out Plan, revisited this approach and compared potential impacts due to future build -out of the Village area based on the 10 -year storm event. The study area included 90 acres of the larger 137 -acre Build -out Plan project area generally west of Eisenhower Drive, east of Desert Club Drive, south of Calle Tampico and north of Calle Sinaloa (Avenue 52). Exhibit 5.8-3, 10 -Year On-site Retention Study, shows the hydrology study area. The remaining areas east of Desert Club Drive and north of Calle Tampico drain in different directions and do not affect the study area. Of the 90 acres in the study area, approximately 77 acres are currently developed and 13 acres are vacant. As the hydrology study is in support of the future commercial build -out of Village, the analysis was limited to the increase in runoff volume due to the development of the vacant parcels. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-10 August 2016 ❑ — -' LEQBND — — CO . . . , . , CON46ROAL DMLOM wCLL - - - - CLIMMERMAL UNDEVELOpF.'.4 1Q YEAR $FtlFNI F�T9'1TION YOLUA�6 �, su eA AREA [oc.} v4wue lcu-Fr-1 BPSIN AREA [AT V DEEP) 1Q 0.61 1,599 1,37tl S.F. W i STUDY AREA x 9.54 ,,470 3w SY- - — — — 3 4.65 1,495 1,450 SF- W CALLS TAAAPlC 3 4 4,93 2,425 654 S,F- Cu 6 0.79 2,064 1.624 S.F- . C❑ �8 0-'.}B 1,51❑ 1,355 S.F. CD_ ❑ 4., 8,945 S.F. 14� J ❑ 2,161 $.F-/.b:FE ® cu fl � cu C o- CU CU co LA QJJINTA COMMUNITY C ❑ FITNESS CENTER - CU °C o CU ❑ D M H l -- - co AVENUE 52 � r— c❑ ca ecu ❑ - iCU I I — I i € r CrrY OF LA QUINTA SHEET f � LA CUNTA YLLAGE HYDIRCLOW 1 [ Lw-ine FL wrme ewwa, TAe AJbImC 0 10 YEAR ON-SrIE RETENTION STUDY '}:10 Fred Wmin D"w SulkM NI- 11 �. AW OF LM346ow TheAlq mCI upK f.ffP-'�WUPAtl T Source: The Altum Group, 2016 L� The Altum Group Ten -Year On -Site Retention Study Map La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5.8-3 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-12 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Regulatory Setting Federal Clean Water Act The Clean Water Act (CWA) was enacted in 1972, and was intended to set goals for restoring and maintaining water quality through reduction of point source pollution by industry and sewage treatment facilities. Waterbodies containing "waters of the U.S." fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which administers Section 404 of the CWA for these waters. In the City of La Quinta, development projects proposing construction activities within the Coachella Valley Stormwater Channel are subject to compliance with Section 404 regulations and may be required to obtain a 404 permit. Such projects may also be subject to compliance with Section 401 of the CWA, which is administered by the RWQCB Colorado River Basin Region. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) In 1987 the CWA was amended to require states to reduce runoff into waterways. These requirements are implemented by the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. NPDES mandates the adoption of stormwater management plans and programs to reduce runoff of pollutants in storm water systems into waters of the United States. In addition, individual project proponents are required to prepare and implement Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP) for the control of runoff during construction. Regional Water Quality Control Board The Regional Water Quality Control Board - Colorado River Basin (RWQCB) implements the NPDES on a statewide basis. RWQCB issues NPDES permits to local jurisdictions, which are held as joint permits among multiple jurisdictions in some regions, including Riverside County. The NPDES program in which La Quinta participates also includes Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, CVWD, Riverside County, and all Riverside County cities except for Blythe. National Flood Insurance Program As mandated by the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 and the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973, FEMA administers the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to provide subsidized federal flood insurance to residents of communities where future floodplain development is regulated. FEMA has developed Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMS) for many areas in the United States so as to determine the need for and availability of federal flood insurance. FIRMS assist the federal government in establishing appropriate flood insurance premiums as well as determining elevations and flood proofing measures. The National Flood Insurance Reform Act (1994) established grant programs for flood mitigation to states and local communities. The Community Rating System (CRS) was instituted through the 1994 legislation, and implements a system by which communities that manage and protect natural floodplain functions and erosion hazards are credited. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-13 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY The City of La Quinta has held NFIP membership since 1985. The most recent La Quinta FIRM maps were updated in 2008 and include 12 community panels. Riverside County has participated in the NFIP since 1980. Property owners in the City are therefore eligible for flood insurance, and must purchase insurance prior to obtaining financing to buy, build or improve structures in a Special Flood Hazard Zone based on FEMA mapping. FIRM maps include a variety of flood risk information based on historic, meteorological, hydrologic and hydraulic data, as well as existing development, open space and topographic conditions within an area. They also incorporate the results of engineering studies conducted by FEMA, which establish the "base flood" (100 -year flood). Areas subject to the 100 -year flood are considered at high risk of inundation. FEMA uses these data to delineate Special Flood Hazards Zones. FIRM maps are subject to updates as local conditions, including development, hydrologic conditions, populations, and other variables may change frequently. All areas of flooding are not necessarily identified on these maps. FEMA has instituted a Map Modernization Program to improve the accuracy of FIRM maps. It has set a goal of creating digital maps to delineate 65% of the continental U.S. and 92% of the population. Flood Hazard Zones in the Planning Area Flood Hazard Zone data from corresponding FIRM Community Panels (maps) for the La Quinta planning area is described below and shown on Exhibit 5.8-1, FEMA Flood Zones and Flood Control Facilities. As noted above, FIRMS for La Quinta were published in 2008. There have been two floodplain map revisions for the City approved by FEMA. As a result, all developed areas within the City's corporate limits are outside the 100 -year flood zone and do not require flood insurance. Zone A: Areas of 100 -year flood where no base flood elevations or depths are shown. Requires flood insurance. Zone AO: Areas of 100 -year flood with average depths of 1 — 3 feet, generally from sheet flow on sloping terrain. Requires flood insurance. Zone X: Areas of 500 -year flood with average depth of less than 1 foot or less than one square mile drainage area; and protected by levees from 100 -year flood. No base flood elevations or depths are shown. Flood insurance available but not required. Zone D: Areas where flood hazards are undetermined but flooding is possible. Flood insurance available but not required. As shown on Exhibit 5.8-2, the Village Build -out Plan project area is located within Zone X Area (areas within the 500 -year flood plain). La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-14 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Regional Storm water Management Analysis and design of regional flood control structures is the responsibility of the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (RCFC). In the City, including the Village Build -out Plan project area, CVWD manages regional facilities, which collect runoff from areas outside the City, including surrounding mountains. Exhibit 5.8-1 above, shows the regional flood hazard zones and flood control facilities as they relate to the project area. Planning, maintenance and construction of improvements for regional facilities fall within the broad management responsibilities with which CVWD is charged. Of primary concern to CVWD are rivers, major streams and tributaries, as well as areas of substantial sheet flow. Regional facilities as described above include the Coachella Valley Stormwater Channel (Whitewater River), the La Quinta Evacuation Channel, the Bear Creek System, the East La Quinta Channel and Lake Cahuilla. Existing Project Area Drainage Infrastructure Existing drainage generally consists of three drainage areas within the Village Build -out Plan. The first drainage area is located southwest of the Village and bounded by Calle Tampico to the north, Calle Sinaloa to the south, Avenida Bermudas to the east and Eisenhower Drive to the west. Current drainage in this area is directed towards Avenida Navarro and Avenida Bermudas to the north and then discharges into Calle Tampico. The second drainage area is of the Village area and bounded by Calle Tampico to the north, Avenue 52 to the south, Desert Club Drive to the east and Avenida Bermudas to the west. Drainage is directed towards Desert Club Drive, then drains towards the north and discharges into Calle Tampico. The drainage in this area is mostly sheet flow into local dry wells, sand filters and retention basins, then street flows towards Desert Club Drive. A third, but smaller drainage area located at the northwestern portion of the Village Build -out area, generally drains northward along Avenida Martinez, Avenida Mendoza and Avenida Villa to Calle Tampico. Runoff from all three drainage areas are intercepted into double reinforced catch basins (RCB) placed along the eastbound side of Calle Tampico at each cross street with the exception of Avenida Bermudas. The RCBs convey runoff to an underground 2 feet high by 6 feet wide double reinforced concrete box that drains from west to east along Calle Tampico. However, the catch basin capacity collects only 26.5 cubic feet per second (cfs) from an overall 71 cfs (10 -year storm flow) generated from the off-site area. The remaining flow ponds to a depth of 7 -inches, then flows towards the east and joins the 41.5 cfs runoff from the project area. The combined runoff flows east to another catch basin located along Calle Tampico east of Desert Club Drive. An existing CVWD 60 -inch reinforced concrete pipe (RCP) storm drain flows north along Desert Club Drive. This 60 -inch pipe does not receive runoff from the Village Build -out Plan area, but instead conveys overflow runoff from the detention basins located south of the study area (see Exhibit 5.8-1). The pipe drains from south to north and discharges into the La Quinta Evacuation Channel. Also, a 66 - inch RCP exists along Avenue 52 south of the study area. The 66 -inch RCP drains from west to east La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-15 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY and conveys a small portion of its flow into the 60 -inch RCP in Desert Club Drive via an 18 -inch lateral pipe connection. Another RCB is located on the westbound side of Calle Tampico at approximately 220 feet east of the intersection with Avenida Bermudas. This RCB intercepts drainage into an 18 -inch RCP to Avenida Bermudas where it then travels northward along Avenida Bermudas and increases in size to a 42 -inch RCP before discharging into a retention basin drywell that if filled to capacity, discharges into the La Quinta Evacuation Channel. Local Stormwater Management The City of La Quinta prepared a Master Drainage Plan update for the City in 2009 (Psomas) that included a separate appendix (Downtown Area Drainage Study) that specifically discussed the downtown area (La Quinta Village). The Downtown Area Drainage Study focused on a portion of the Village Build -out Plan of approximately 25.6 acres between Calle Tampico to the north, Avenue 52 to the south, Desert Club Drive to the east and Avenida Bermudas to the west. The Psomas study estimated that a 10 -year frequency storm runoff would have the potential to generate up to 41.5 cfs. The study found that insufficient storm drainage infrastructure existed along Calle Tampico and would be prone to flooding during storm -related events. Therefore, the City undertook a focused hydrology study of the project area that concentrated on the vacant parcels that could be developed under the Village Build -out Plan. Traditionally, the Village has been developed without requiring on-site storm drain retention due to the commercial nature of the area. What this means is that commercial sites are usually entirely covered impervious surfaces (buildings and parking lots) with the exception of small landscaped areas. Therefore, commercial sites are graded so that water does not pond and stormwater runs off into the public right-of-way where it is carried downstream to a basin. In the case of the project area, this is the Oleander Basin (shown on Exhibit 5.8-1 northwest of the project area). The Altum Group's hydrology study prepared for the Build—out Plan, revisited this approach and compared potential impacts due to future build -out of the Village area based on the 10 -year storm event. The study area included 90 acres of the larger 137 -acre Build -out Plan project area generally west of Eisenhower Drive, east of Desert Club Drive, south of Calle Tampico and north of Calle Sinaloa (Avenue 52). Exhibit 5.8-3, 10 -Year On-site Retention Study, shows the hydrology study area. The remaining areas east of Desert Club Drive and north of Calle Tampico drain in different directions and do not affect the study area. Of the 90 acres in the study area, approximately 77 acres are currently developed and 13 acres are vacant. As the hydrology study is in support of the future commercial build -out of Village, the analysis was limited to the increase in runoff volume due to the development of the vacant parcels. The results contained in La Quinta Village Hydrology Study can be separated into two sets of data to use for comparison. The data were generated by 1) analyzing the anticipated maximum storm runoff La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-16 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY volume generated on each vacant commercial site within the study area during the 10 -year storm event; and 2) calculating the increase in runoff discharge due to development of the vacant parcels within the study area. 5.8.3 Applicable Goals and Policies rna i Fp-1 Protection of the health, safety and welfare of the community from flooding and hydrological hazards. Policy FH -1.3 The City shall continue to implement development standards that provide for a reduction in runoff from developed lands and are consistent with local and regional stormwater management plans. Program FH -1.3.a: New development shall continue to be required to construct on-site retention/detention basins and other necessary stormwater management facilities that are capable of managing 100 -year storm water flows. Policy FH -1.5 The City shall coordinate with CVWD to minimize the potential for the occurrence of inundation from levee or water tank failure, including seismically induced inundation. Program FH -1.5.a: The City shall annually request a status update from the Coachella Valley Water District of their monitoring of the structural safety of the levees around Lake Cahuilla and along the Coachella Valley Stormwater Channel and the La Quinta Evacuation Channel. Program FH -1.5.b: The City shall annually request a status update from the Coachella Valley Water District of their monitoring of the structural integrity of above -ground water tanks and reservoirs, and where needed, the implementation of bracing techniques to minimize potential structural damage and/or failure. 5.8.4 Project Impact Analysis Thresholds of Significance The thresholds are derived from Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, and are used to determine the level of potential effect. Implementation of the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan would have a significant effect on hydrology if it is determined that the project will: a. Violate any water quality standards or wastewater discharge requirements. b. Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off-site. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-17 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY c. 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 of surface runoff in a manner, which would result in flooding on- or off-site. d. 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. e. Place housing within a 100 -year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazards Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map. f. Place within a 100 -year flood hazard area structures, which would impede or redirect flood flow. g. Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of a levee or dam. h. Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow. a. Violate any water quality standards or wastewater discharge requirements Construction activities within the Village Build -out Plan project area could expose soils to erosion from rainfall, runoff, and wind. Wind erosion could result in the generation of fugitive dust, which is addressed in Section 5.2, Air Quality. Erosion from rainfall and runoff is more problematic because pollutants from heavy equipment or construction related materials, such as diesel, gasoline, oils, grease, solvents, lubricants, or other petroleum products could mix with the water and run offsite. The CRWQCB has adopted strict regulations for the control and release of stormwater into the Whitewater Storm Channel. Therefore, all project applicants who disturb one acre or more must prepare a SWPPP to be implemented throughout the project construction period. Each SWPPP must list and prescribe appropriate best management practices (BMPs) for the control and treatment of runoff from the project site. A copy of the SWPPP prepared by a Qualified SWPPP Developer (QSD) and implemented by a Qualified SWPPP Practitioner (QSP) must be maintained and updated for each project site and available for review during the entirety of the construction period. During long term operation, each project will be required to maintain the site under a post construction Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) to be prepared by a QSD that addresses all potential runoff and ongoing maintenance of BMPs related to project retention basins, catch basin inserts, flood channels, flood walls, levees, berms, drop structures and underground culverts. With implementation of Mitigation Measures HWQ-1 and HWQ-2, all projects within the Village Build- out Plan project area that disturb one acre or more will prepare and implement a SWPPP during construction and prepare and implement a WQMP for post construction at each site. This will ensure that the project's impact in regard to violating any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements will be reduced to less than significant levels with the proper operation and La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-18 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY maintenance of structural BMPs, and continued use of non-structural BMPs such as education programs for local residents (generally undertaken by CVWD). b. Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge A Water Supply Study (WSS) was prepared for the La Quinta General Plan that provided estimates of existing water demands generated within the General Plan Planning Area and projected future water demands that will be generated at build out of the proposed General Plan. Development within the Village Build -out Plan project area was included in these projections, although the exact number of additional residences and increased square footage of non-residential uses was only projected at the time. It should be noted that the WSS prepared for the General Plan is programmatic, and qualifying individual development projects within the Planning Area may be subject to preparation of project - level Water Supply Assessments (WSA) as warranted. It is unlikely that any future projects in the project area would rise to the level requiring a WSA. For example, the threshold for residential development is 500 dwelling units. Existing Water Demands Table 5.8-1, Estimate of Existing Water Service Demands, shows the estimated water demands that are currently generated for the General Plan Planning Area including the Village Build -out Plan project area. The table shows that the existing water demands for the General Plan Planning Area are estimated to be 32,496 acre-feet per year, consisting of 31,227 acre-feet within City limits and 1,268 acre-feet within the Sphere of Influence. Existing water demands for the General Plan Planning Area are comprised of 3.9 percent within the Sphere and 96.1 percent within City limits. Water Demands at Build -Out (2035) Table 5.8-2, Estimate of Water Service Demands at Build Out, shows the projected water demand for land uses in the City, the Village Build -out Plan, the Sphere and the entire La Quinta planning area at build out, assuming that new development adheres to water efficiency building standards and existing development continues to generate business as usual water demands. Table 5.8-2 shows that the build out water demands for the General Plan Planning Area, including the Village Build -out Plan, are estimated to be 54,467 acre-feet per year, consisting of 37,783 acre-feet within City limits and 16,684 acre-feet within the Sphere of Influence. Build out water demands in the General Plan Planning Area are comprised of 30.6 percent within the Sphere and 69.3 percent within City limits. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-19 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Table 5.8-1 Estimate of Existing Water Service Demands Source: Table III -51, "La Quinta General Plan Water Resources Projections," Appendix A to Water Supply Study, prepared by Terra Nova Planning & Research Inc., January 2011. Proposed Development At build out development within the General Plan Planning Area is expected to consume 54,467 acre- feet of water per year, which represents an increase in water demand of approximately 21,971 acre- feet compared to water demands generated by existing development. Table 5.8-3, Estimate of Water Service Demands from New Development below shows the projected water demand that will be generated from new development set forth in the 2035 General Plan. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-20 August 2016 Landscaping Potable Total Demand Daily Demand Land Use Designation (ac-ft/yr) (ac-ft/yr) (ac-ft/yr) (mgd) La Quinta City Limits Low Density Residential 6,482.65 4,091.66 10,574.31 9.44 Medium/HighDensity Residential 1,157.40 521.42 1,678.83 1.5 Commercial 311.87 1,007.61 1,319.48 1.18 Major Community Facilities 295.91 111.99 407.9 0.36 Open Space - Natural N/A N/A - - Open Space- Recreation 16,465.48 N/A 16,465.48 14.7 Streets, Sidewalks, Medians 781.47 N/A 781.47 0.7 Total 25,494.78 5,732.69 31,227.46 27.88 Sphere of Influence Low Density Residential 857.11 157.31 1,014.42 0.91 Medium/HighDensity Residential 0.18 - 0.18 0 Commercial 17.71 43.03 60.74 0.05 MaiorCommunitv Facilities 30.65 13.26 43.9 0.04 Streets, Sidewalks, Medians 149.17 N/A 149.17 0.13 Total 1,054.82 213.6 1,268.42 1.13 Planning Area Summary Low Density Residential 7,339.76 4,248.97 11,588.73 10.35 Medium/HighDensity Residential 1,157.58 521.42 1,679.01 1.5 Commercial/Industrial 329.58 1,050.64 1,380.22 1.23 MaiorCommunitvFacilities 326.56 125.25 451.81 0.4 Open Space - Natural N/A N/A - - Open Space- Recreation 16,465.48 N/A 16,465.48 14.7 Streets, Sidewalks, Medians 930.64 N/A 930.64 0.83 Total 26,549.59 5,946.28 32,495.88 29.01 Source: Table III -51, "La Quinta General Plan Water Resources Projections," Appendix A to Water Supply Study, prepared by Terra Nova Planning & Research Inc., January 2011. Proposed Development At build out development within the General Plan Planning Area is expected to consume 54,467 acre- feet of water per year, which represents an increase in water demand of approximately 21,971 acre- feet compared to water demands generated by existing development. Table 5.8-3, Estimate of Water Service Demands from New Development below shows the projected water demand that will be generated from new development set forth in the 2035 General Plan. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-20 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Table 5.8-2 Estimate of Water Service Demands at Build Out Source: Table III -512, "La Quinta General Plan Water Resources Projections," Appendix A to Water Supply Assessment, prepared by Terra Nova Planning & Research Inc., January 2011 Table 5.8-3 shows that 70 percent of the new water demand will be generated by new development within the Sphere, and 30 percent will be generated by new development within City Limits. Table 5.8-3 Estimate of Water Service Demands from New Development La Quinta Landscaping Potable TotalDaily Demand Land Use Designation (ac-ft/yr) (ac-ft/yr) Demand(ac- (mgd) Sphere of Influence 1 11,828.75 1 3,586.98 ft 1 13.76 La Quinta City Limits 16,708.23 5,262.77 21,970.99 19.61 Low Density Residential 9,294.22 4,881.63 14,175.85 12.66 Medium/High Density Residential 1,502.34 1,016.81 2,519.15 2.25 Commercial 496.72 1,360.39 1,857.11 1.66 Major Community Facilities 476.80 149.64 626.44 0.56 Open Space - Natural N/A N/A N/A N/A Open Space- Recreation 17,681.77 N/A 17,681.77 15.79 Streets, Sidewalks, Medians 922.39 N/A 922.39 0.82 Total 30,374.25 7,408.47 37,782.72 33.73 Sphere of Influence Low Density Residential 12,309.74 3,375.02 15,684.76 14.00 Medium/High Density Residential 24.21 34.41 58.62 0.05 Commercial 192.99 377.52 570.51 0.51 Major Community Facilities 32.47 13.63 46.10 0.04 Streets, Sidewalks, Medians 324.17 N/A 324.17 0.29 Total 12,883.57 3,800.58 16,684.15 14.89 Planning Area Summary Low Density Residential 21,603.95 8,256.66 29,860.61 26.66 Medium/High Density Residential 1,526.55 1,051.22 2,577.77 2.30 Commercial/Industrial 689.71 1,737.91 2,427.62 2.17 Major Community Facilities 509.27 163.27 672.54 0.60 Open Space - Natural N/A N/A - - Open Space- Recreation 17,681.77 N/A 17,681.77 15.79 Streets, Sidewalks, Medians 1,246.56 N/A 1,246.56 1.11 Total 43,257.82 11,209.05 54,466.87 48.62 Source: Table III -512, "La Quinta General Plan Water Resources Projections," Appendix A to Water Supply Assessment, prepared by Terra Nova Planning & Research Inc., January 2011 Table 5.8-3 shows that 70 percent of the new water demand will be generated by new development within the Sphere, and 30 percent will be generated by new development within City Limits. Table 5.8-3 Estimate of Water Service Demands from New Development La Quinta Landscaping (ac-ft/yr) Potable (ac-ft/yr) Total Demand (ac-ft/yr) Daily Demand (mgd) City Limits 4,879.47 1,675.78 6,555.26 5.85 Sphere of Influence 1 11,828.75 1 3,586.98 1 15,415.73 1 13.76 Planning Area Summary 16,708.23 5,262.77 21,970.99 19.61 Source: Table III -53, Terra Nova/La Quinta General Plan EIR, July 2012. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-21 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Water Demand Consistency CVWD's 2010 UWMP accounts for new growth and development that is expected to occur within the La Quinta Planning Area including the Village Build -out Plan area (Note: CVWD will implement its revised 2015 UWMP, which is expected to be adopted by July of 2016). Section 3.3 of the General Plan WSS describes that the water demand projections for the La Quinta General Plan Update are relative to the water demand projections set forth in the CVWD UWMP. The average per capita water demand for the CVWD Service Area was approximately 482 gallons per capita per day (gpcd) for 2010 and is projected to be 423 gpcd for 2035. The 2010 per capita water demand for the La Quinta Planning Area is approximately 473 gallons per day and is projected to be 361 gpcd in 2035. The water demand estimates for the La Quinta Planning Area for 2010 and 2035 are 2 percent and 15 percent more efficient compared to the CVWD estimates. As such, water demands generated by the General Plan Planning Area, including the Village Build -out project area, are fully captured and accounted for within the CVWD UWMP projections. Of note is that future residential uses in the Village Build -out Plan project area will be multi -family projects developed in an urban setting where traditional yards would not be likely. Landscaping represents a large percentage of water usage in traditional residential subdivisions that would not be realized in the 1,230 new residential units proposed in the project area. Therefore, water demand projections as proposed under the 2035 General Plan are consistent with the water demand estimates utilized by CVWD. Impacts to Water Supply Resources As described, CVWD serves as the water provider for the City of La Quinta. Water supplies that serve the existing La Quinta Planning Area are derived from groundwater in storage and imported Colorado River water and State Water Project (SWP) exchange water. All urban water demands are currently met through groundwater supplies. New water demands generated by proposed development in the Village Build -out Plan project area will be met through a combination of groundwater, imported supplies, and reclaimed water. CVWD expects to have sufficient water supplies to serve development in the La Quinta Planning Area, including the Village Build -out Plan project area, through 2035 and beyond by utilizing a combination of water supply sources and treating surface water supplies to potable quality standards. CVWD projects that, in 2035, the urban water demand total of 242,700 acre-feet per year will be supplied by 53 percent groundwater, 20 percent treated Colorado River Water, 22 percent untreated Colorado River Water, and 4 percent desalinated agricultural drain water. CVWD's current UWMP provides long term water supply/demand planning in an effort to protect water resources, preserve water quality, and assure that water supplies are available to meet demands. CVWD's UWMP evaluated water demands relative to supplies for the period between 2010 and 2035 under normal, single, and multiple dry year conditions. The current UWMP finds that with groundwater supplies, imported water supplies, water conservation programs, and recharge activity La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-22 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY water supplies are sufficient to meet demands during normal, single, and multiple dry year conditions through 2035. New development within the La Quinta Planning Area including the Village Build -out Plan project area will result in an increase in the demand for water of approximately 6,555 acre-feet within City Limits and 15,416 acre-feet within the Sphere of Influence by 2035. This new demand will be met by groundwater, imported Colorado River water, desalinated agricultural drain water, or a combination thereof. As described above, CVWD has accounted for this increased water demand in conjunction with all other projected water demands within the service area. CVWD has determined that through utilization of a combination of water supply sources including the need to provide expanded availability of tertiary treated water, and coordination by the City in implementing CVWD UWMP regulations, sufficient water supplies will therefore be available to meet demands in 2035 and also maintain consistency with Policy UTL-1.1 and Program UTL-1.1a. As such, the level of additional water supplies needed to meet demands generated by development within the Village Build -out Plan will not substantially deplete groundwater reserves or interfere with groundwater recharge. The City of La Quinta relies on CVWD to manage and supply water resources. Nonetheless, the City is committed to promoting water conservation and achieving water savings, protecting groundwater reserves, and preserving groundwater quality. In the Village Build -out Plan, water conservation can be achieved through retrofitting of existing water -intensive appliances with the installation of water efficient appliances, implementation of water efficient landscaping plans for all new development, the use of new technology, and advanced irrigation control for outdoor landscaping. Mitigation Measures HWQ-5 through HWQ-11 will ensure that impacts in regard to water supply are reduced to less than significant levels. These measures are also repeated as UTL-4 through UTL-10 found in Section 5.15, Utilities and Service Systems. C. Substantially alter drainage patterns that could substantially increase the rate of surface runoff resulting in flooding on or off site Traditionally, the Village has been developed without requiring on-site storm drain retention due to the commercial nature of the area. What this means is that commercial sites are usually entirely covered impervious surfaces (buildings and parking lots) with the exception of small landscaped areas. Therefore, commercial sites are graded so that water does not pond and stormwater runs off into the public right-of-way where it is carried downstream to a basin. In the case of the project area, this is the Oleander Basin (shown on Exhibit 5.8-1 northwest of the project area). The Altum Group's hydrology study prepared for the Build—out Plan, revisited this approach and compared potential impacts due to future build -out of the Village area based on the 10 -year storm event. The study area included 90 acres of the larger 137 -acre Build -out Plan project area generally west of Eisenhower Drive, east of Desert Club Drive, south of Calle Tampico and north of Calle Sinaloa La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-23 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY (Avenue 52). Exhibit 5.8-2, 10 -Year On-site Retention Study, (previously discussed) shows the hydrology study area. The remaining areas east of Desert Club Drive and north of Calle Tampico drain in different directions and do not affect the study area. Of the 90 acres in the study area, approximately 77 acres are currently developed and 13 acres are vacant. As the hydrology study is in support of the future commercial build -out of Village, the analysis was limited to the increase in runoff volume due to the development of the vacant parcels. This is because even if the parcels are redeveloped, stormwater flows would not be expected to increase over the flows already occurring in the project area, due to their developed state. The results contained in the La Quinta Village Hydrology Study can be separated into two sets of data to use for comparison. The data are generated by 1) analyzing the anticipated maximum storm runoff volume generated on each vacant commercial site within the study area during the 10 -year storm event; and 2) calculating the increase in runoff discharge due to development of the vacant parcels within the study area. On-site Retention Analysis Several undeveloped parcels designated for commercial use within the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area were studied separately to determine the on-site retention volume capacity that would be required in order to capture 100 percent of the 10 -year event is shown in Exhibit 5.8 -3,10 - Year On-site Retention Study Map. Each of the commercial parcels that were studied share similar topographic features in that they have less than minimum allowable fall in order to facilitate surface drainage. For the purposes of the analysis, it was assumed that a sufficient gradient would be provided in order to achieve positive surface flow and 90 percent impervious lot coverage would exist under the developed condition. Since the undeveloped parcels within the study area share similar characteristics, the results of the La Quinta Village Hydrology Study were tabulated and averaged to produce a representative retention basin footprint size per acre of commercial development. The resulting value would then be evaluated at the time a specific project is proposed based on its feasibility on a lot by lot basis. Build -out of the vacant commercial properties within the study area would require approximately 2,200 square feet per acre designated for retention basin use in order to capture the on-site runoff generated during the 10 -year storm event. Street Capacity Analysis Vacant parcels designated for commercial development within the study area were identified and studied to determine the runoff discharge tributary to each vacant parcel under the existing vacant condition as well as the projected commercially developed condition. The results were compared for all vacant commercial parcels in orderto determine the increase in runoff due to 100 percent buildout within the Village Build -out Plan project area as shown in Exhibit 5.8-4, 10 Year Discharge Study Map. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-24 August 2016 CD GD Cu 11 72 � Liu CU GU CU 1q Q CD cu - fr i D LA RUINTA COMMUNITY = FlTNESS CENTER ti W O C CU CU 1 cu D I � h ` `Q 4d" I� ✓�1� �(l l�T� mil T Source: The Altum Group, 2016 The Altura Group CALLE TAW100 cu 13 C ` C I} GD CU ® C �'_E, C C 6 07 w LCE cuLLD Ll O w R SIDE Ai r'�j Ld w 0 CDQ4i Q4' CCdCD OCU y 1 C I} T AVENl1F 57 LECEND . OIHEGDOM FLOW ARROW CD .. _ ........ CORMExcwL OEWELOM CU ........... COWERCIAL LHXYteorto 7D YEAR INCREASE IN Rk1NgFF DUE TO DEVELOPMENT QkSSWES aD a1 -WE Wd EH110Hj SLRq?EA AREA (cc) PRE-OEV LONEW UMVA0E (q10 QM) I'm gUELI7311EH1 CISWAWA (010 f75) �i nae OAS 0M ® 0,78 1.20 2,03 �3 0,65 0.94 1-61 4 1.73 PAI 4.00 6.92 1,47 2.47 ^S V 0.11 6.21 034 © 9.35 0.55 0.93 ® 0.35 0.56 0.44 Q4 0.79 1,21 2.09 [� 1.1s L71) Z." © 1.2t C,63 ym Q% GMr.52 0.57 OAT 11.47 107 2398 9 IMME IN RUDpFF WE i9 DMO!'" OF EIXUNO Vp0yd{r COMAERDAL PARCELS MORIN EA UWA YALAEE - - _ - - - - _ . , - , 9-M CFS �`� uuerin6 • Phni�iy .�y •en.��nMw RYnO Fwd Nenng W,,%iwMg. Aft Dr mCA 92269 c]'60.11/nS150 1L:AIt�aivw�,�yn f. �60.940.MPP Ten -Year Discharge Study Map La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5.8-4 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-26 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY The total additional runoff generated by commercial development of existing vacant lots within the study area during the 10 -year rain event is 9.89 cfs occurring along Calle Tampico, where flows combine to create the worst case condition. Based on the Psomas Downtown Area Drainage Report, the project area is subject to flooding under the existing condition in the northern reaches of Avenida Bermudas, Desert Club Drive and all along Calle Tampico. Existing catch basins along Calle Tampico and the underground storm drain pipe network do not have the capacity to convey the 10 -year peak storm runoff from the project area and adjacent neighborhood. Existing studies (Psomas and MBI) calculate runoff tributary to Calle Tampico during the 10 year peak storm event by combining 71 cfs from the area west of Avenida Bermudas with 41.5 cfs generated between Avenida Bermudas and Desert Club Drive for a total of 112.5 cfs under the existing condition. Development of the existing vacant parcels within the study for commercial use increases the discharge along Calle Tampico by 8.8 percent, to 122.4 cfs. Conclusion The results of the analyses in the La Quinta Village Hydrology Study suggest that the level of impingement to commercial development in order to retain 10 -year flows on site is largely relative to the expected increase in surface street runoff due to development of existing vacant lots within the hydrology study area. Since on-site streets and storm drain facilities along Calle Tampico do not have capacity to convey 10 -year storm runoff under the existing condition, and the increase in runoff due to development of the existing vacant parcels is relatively small, the recommendation is that a "drainage mitigation" development fee be required to supplement funding for upgrades to the existing storm drain evacuation system. Mitigation Measure HWQ-3, identifies that the City of La Quinta is responsible for constructing improvements to the storm drain evacuation system in the Village Build -out project area and requires that the improvements must be made prior to commencement of development of new projects in the project area that are proposed after adoption of the Build -out Plan. Of particular concern is the construction of storm drain improvements along Calle Tampico. HWQ-3 states that the City of La Quinta shall identify the required upgrades to the system. The use of an off-site retention basin designed to capture flows generated during the 10 -year storm event has been suggested as a possible design solution and involves the need for existing surface streets and storm drain facilities to provide conveyance to an off-site location when they are already beyond capacity under the existing condition. This reinforces the conclusion that a drainage mitigation fee intended to upgrade existing facilities is warranted. Mitigation Measure HWQ-4, requires that each new development project in the project area pay the development impact fee for drainage improvements at the time of building permit. Although the hydrology study prepared for the Village Build -out Plan only studied vacant parcels, there are a number of underutilized properties that the City believes could be redeveloped at an increased La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-27 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY density than currently developed and therefore, could also add to runoff in the area. The City intends to make the necessary drainage improvements to the storm drain evacuation system in advance of build -out of the Village, thus solving the flooding problem in the project area. With implementation of the drainage improvements, and collection of development impact fees for drainage improvements, this impact would be less than significant. d. Create or contribute runoff that would exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm drain systems or provide additional sources of polluted runoff See discussion of flooding and the storm evacuation system in 5.8.4.c above. e. Water Runoff that Exceeds Capacity of Drainage System See discussion of flooding and the storm evacuation system in 5.8.4.c above. f. Water Quality Degradation See discussion of flooding and the storm evacuation system in 5.8.4.a above. g -h. Flood Hazards See discussion of flooding and the storm evacuation system in 5.8.4.c above. i. Seiche, Tsunami, Mudflow Inundation from Above -Ground Storage Tanks Strong ground shaking can cause structural damage to above -ground water storage tanks, especially when they are not adequately braced and baffled. Tanks can be lifted off of foundations by the movement of sloshing water, damaging the shell and roof and causing the bottom to bulge. Water may also be released when pipes leading to the tank are sheared off. In California and Mexico, the Landers and Big Bear earthquakes in 1992, the Northridge (1994), and the Sierra EI Mayor-Cucupah in 2010 all resulted in damage to water tanks, with inundation of homes down gradient also occurring in some cases. As a result of the 1992 and 1994 earthquakes, design standards for steel water tanks were revised. New tank design calls for flexible joints at connection points so that movement can occur in all directions. In addition to inundation of structures down slope, potable water supplies may be reduced, impacting availability of drinking water as well as fire flows and other emergency service needs. Water supplies may be impacted for 30 days or longer should damage occur to other critical facilities, such as aqueducts that carry imported water throughout southern California, wells, pipelines and other facilities associated with the domestic water system in the region and the project area. This emphasizes the need to inspect and retrofit tanks to make certain their structural reliability in the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-28 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY event of an earthquake, as well as to ensure that water supplies in reservoirs are kept at or near capacity. CVWD has ten water reservoirs in the City's planning area, with a total capacity of 44.6 million gallons. Six of the ten are above ground storage tanks located upslope from the project area along the southern portion of La Quinta Cove. All six storage tank sites have levee berms surrounding storage tanks for gradual offsite flow in the event of failure. All ten of the storage tanks are of welded steel, constructed to current seismic and American Water Works Association standards. The oldest was constructed to 1982 and the most recent in 2008. 5.8.5 Cumulative Impacts New development within the Village Build -out Plan project area will have the potential to create cumulative impacts if not properly mitigated to address water quality, drainage, flooding and water supply. Although new projects will increase runoff as a result of development of parking and building structures, mitigation (HWQ-1 and HWQ-2) requiring preparation and implementation of SWPPPs and WQMPs with best management practices (i.e., landscaped swales, porous pavers, etc.) would assure that individual projects maintain onsite permeability to a degree that does not cumulatively add to the project area's overall runoff potential. Measures HWQ-1 and HWQ-2 require the City to plan and construct storm drain improvements prior to commencement of development of new projects in the project area, and prepare a study that establishes development impact fees (DIF) to be paid by applicants of new projects on vacant land, or projects that are proposed to redevelop currently underutilized properties in the project area. Implementation of Mitigation Measures HWQ-4 for the payment of development impact fees for drainage improvements at the time of building permit would reduce impacts associated with flooding to less than significant levels. Although the drainage study prepared for the Village Build -out Plan only studied vacant parcels, there are a number of underutilized properties that the City believes could be redeveloped at an increased density than currently developed and therefore, could also add to runoff in the area. The City intends to make the necessary drainage improvements to the storm drain evacuation system in advance of build -out of the Village, thus mitigating the flooding problem in the project area. Finally, implementation of Mitigation Measures HWQ-5 through HWQ-11 will ensure that water conservation measures in compliance with CVWD's current UWMP (or most recent UWMP in place), are incorporated into new individual development projects to lower water usage for landscaping and to comply with Section 17921.3 of the Health and Safety Code, Title 20, California Administrative Code Section 1601(b), and applicable sections of Title 24 of the State Code. Therefore, with implementation of Mitigation Measures HWQ-1 through HWQ-11, all new development within the Village Build -out Plan project area will assist in minimizing cumulative impacts in regard to Hydrology and Water Quality and as a result, impacts are expected to be less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-29 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY 5.8.6 Mitigation Measures HWQ-1 Prior to the issuance of building permits on vacant or underutilized parcels that will be developed within the Village Build -out Plan, a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) shall be prepared for all projects within the Village Build -out Plan that disturb one acre or more. The SWPPP shall list appropriate best management practices (BMPs) for the control and treatment of runoff from the project site. The applicant is responsible for the preparation and implementation of the SWPPP per the NPDES requirements and must file a Notice of Intent with the State Water Resource Control Board and receive a Waste Discharge ID Number (WDID), and have a copy of the SWPPP at the project site at all times during construction. HWQ-2 Prior to the issuance of building permits on vacant parcels within the Village Build -out Plan project area, a WQMP for post construction conditions shall list appropriate best management practices (BMPs) for the control and treatment of runoff from the project site. The WQMP must be reviewed and approved by the City Engineer or his/her designee. HWQ-3 The City of La Quinta is responsible for constructing improvements to the storm drain evacuation system in the Village Build -out project area. These improvements must be made prior to commencement of development of new projects in the project area, proposed after adoption of the Build -out Plan. Subsequently, prior to issuance of buildings permits for new development on vacant properties or redevelopment of underutilized properties in the project area applicants will pay development impact fees for drainage improvements to the storm drain evacuation system. HWQ-4 Prior to project construction of new projects on vacant lands, or redevelopment projects on currently developed parcels, the project applicant shall pay a Development Impact Fee specific towards funding of storm drain upgrade improvements along Calle Tampico Ave. HWQ-5 All project development within the Village Build -out Plan shall coordinate and cooperate with CVWD to ensure City-wide compliance with current State Senate Bill x7-7 to reduce per capita urban water use by 36 percent for year 2016, and 20 percent reduction by year 2020, including landscaping conversion programs and the smart irrigation control program; expanding the availability of sustainable water supplies such as tertiary treated water, and encouraging its use for landscape irrigation purposes, especially for irrigating golf courses and other large landscaped areas, and/or other mandates imposed at the time development occurs. HWQ-6 The City shall review and amend its Development Standards to require that all new development within the Village Build -out Plan demonstrate a reduction of domestic water consumption equivalent to the CalGreen Tier One standards in effect at the time of development. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-30 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY HWQ-7 The City shall continue to implement its Water Efficient Landscape ordinance by requiring that development projects within the Village Build -out Plan implement water efficient landscaping plans to meet or exceed current water efficiency standards. HWQ-8 The City shall require that new development within the Village Build -out Plan reduce its projected water consumption over "business as usual" consumption rates. HWQ-9 The City shall develop programs to allow and encourage the retrofitting of existing water intensive appliances and irrigation systems for existing development within the Village Build -out Plan. HWQ-10 The City shall continue to require that all new developments within the Village Build -out Plan use water conserving appliances and fixtures, including low -flush toilets and low -flow showerheads and faucets, as well as the application of water -conserving technologies in conformance with Section 17921.3 of the Health and Safety Code, Title 20, California Administrative Code Section 1601(b), and applicable sections of Title 24 of the State Code. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting A. The applicant is responsible for the preparation and implementation of the SWPPP per the NPDES requirements and must file a Notice of Intent with the State Water Resource Control Board and receive a Waste Discharge ID Number (WDID). (Mitigation Measures HWQ-1 and HWQ-2) Responsible Parties: City Engineer, SWRCB B. The City will be responsible for planning and construction of drainage improvements, then be reimbursed through Development Impact Fees to be determined in a Fee Study, prior to development in the Village. (Mitigation Measures HWQ-3 and HWQ-4). Responsible Parties: City Engineer, Project Developers C. Planning Division will review all plans for development projects to ensure that they comply with all applicable CVWD and City requirements for water conservation. Planning Division shall also review the Development Standards to ensure that new development meets the CalGreen Tier One standards in effect at the time of development. (Mitigation Measure HWQ-5 through HWQ-10) Responsible Parties: Planning Division. 5.8.7 Level of Significance after Mitigation With implementation of mitigation herein, impacts in regard to Hydrology and Water Quality will be reduced to less than significant levels. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-31 August 2016 5.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.8-32 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING 5.9 Land Use and Planning 5.9.1 Introduction This section of the EIR addresses potential impacts and opportunities associated with land use and planning resulting from implementation of the Village Build -out Plan project area. The existing conditions, development and land use designations within the Village Build -out Plan are described, and the potential impacts relating to development of the remaining vacant properties, as well as redevelopment of underutilized properties with more intensive uses are assessed in this section. This would include residential development at densities of 20-30 dwelling units per acre, which is higher than the existing density allowed under the City's High Density Residential designation of up to 16 dwelling units per acre. As discussed in Section 3 Project Description, the Village Commercial zoning designation allows multi -family residential dwellings such as condominiums, apartments and similar housing types at densities determined on a site specific basis and based on the development capacity for the proposed uses on the site. In addition, this section includes an assessment of associated parking impacts due to the adoption of Ordinance 528 that allowed a reduction in the number of required parking spaces for properties within the Village Commercial Zoning District, as this is a land use related issue. 5.9.2 Environmental Setting The project area consists of approximately 137 acres of land, generally located on both sides of Calle Tampico, east of Eisenhower Drive, west of Washington Street, and north of Avenue 52. Properties located on the north side of Calle Tampico, including offices, a school, a hotel and the 9.3 -acre property at the northwest corner of Calle Tampico and Washington Street, currently developed as a commercial center, are included in the project area. Existing conditions in the Village Build -out Plan project area are shown in Exhibit 4-3, in Chapter 3, Project Description. The surrounding area outside the boundaries of the Build -out Plan is largely developed with residential uses. As shown in Table 5.9- 1, Existing Conditions in the Project Area, there are approximately 20 acres of vacant land in the Build- out area that could be developed with a mix of uses, such as commercial, professional, and/or residential, and as shown in Table 5.9-2, approximately 30 acres that could be redeveloped at higher density or intensity than that currently occurring on those lands. Land Use Designation Definitions Exhibit 3-5 in Chapter 3, Project Description, shows the existing General Plan land use designations for sites in the Village Build -out Plan project area. The Land Use designations are Village Commercial, General Commercial (Shopping Center), Major Community Facilities (Civic Center), and Recreational La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-1 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Open Space (La Quinta Community Park). Land Uses within the Village Commercial designation include a mix of uses including retail commercial, professional office, and residential. Exhibit 5.9-1, Zoning Designations, shows the existing zoning designations for sites in the project area. Table 5.9-1 Existing Conditions in the Project Area Land Use Dwelling Units Square Feet Acres Residential Single Family 4 0.99 Multi -Family 273 14.01 Commercial Commercial 524,875 51.75 Other Land Uses Hotels + Casitas 290 11.75 Civic Center 18.82 School 12.74 Park 6.50 Vacant 20.18 Total 567 524,875 136.74 Source: City of La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Land Use Data, August 2015. Village Commercial The Village Commercial Designation applies specifically to the traditional Commercial core of the City, and allows specialty retail; such as boutiques and art galleries as well as restaurants, professional offices and services, and hotels. Apartments, condominiums and live -work space is also appropriate in this designation. As established in General Plan 2035 Policy LU -7.1 (see above), mixed use development is allowed in this designation. Mixed use projects can include vertical or horizontal combinations of land uses that are integrated through pedestrian connections and common areas; or can include residential units added to existing commercial development. Height restrictions are limited to two -stories for all development south of Calle Tampico and three to four stories for all development north of Calle Tampico, but the proposed Village Build -out Plan includes a Zoning Code Amendment to allow for the construction of buildings up to 60 feet in height. General Commercial This land use designation applies to the majority of commercial land in the City. The full range of commercial uses can occur within this designation, ranging from supermarkets and drugstores in a neighborhood shopping center, to major national retailers in large buildings. General Commercial uses also include professional offices, service businesses, restaurants, hotels or motels, research and development and warehousing or similar low impact quasi -industrial projects. As established in General Plan 2035 Policy LU -7.1, mixed use development is also appropriate in this designation. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-2 August 2016 1 inch = 400 feet F� The Altum Group Zoning Designations La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5-9.1 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-4 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Major Community Facilities The Major Community Facilities Land Use designation has been assigned to existing or planned municipal, educational or public facilities; such as City and Desert Sands Unified School District facilities and buildings, utility facilities and buildings, fire stations, and public parking lots and similar uses. Recreational Open Space The Recreational Open Space designation applies to parks, recreation facilities (such as driving ranges, club houses and athletic facilities), and public and private golf courses. Zoning Designation Definitions Zoning in the project area include Village Commercial, Neighborhood Commercial (Shopping Center), Major Community Facilities (Civic Center), and Parks and Recreation (La Quinta Community Park). As part of the General Plan and Zoning Consistency Review conducted during the General Plan Update, Commercial Zoning designations, including the Neighborhood Commercial designation, are consistent with the General Commercial Land Use Designation. Although no General Plan Amendment is proposed, the Village Build -out Plan has the potential to add 1,230 dwelling units, and 799,786 square feet of commercial space, on approximate 137 acres of land. 5.9.3 Applicable Goals and Policies City of La Quinta Goal LU -2 High quality design that complements and enhances the City. rnnl 111-3 Safe and identifiable neighborhoods that provide a sense of place. Policy LU -3.1 Encourage the preservation of neighborhood character and assure a consistent and compatible land use pattern. rnnl 111-On� A balanced and varied economic base which provides a broad range of goods and services to the City's residents and the region. Policy LU -6.1 Commercial land use designations shall allow a full range of retail, office, resort and institutional businesses in the City. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-5 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Policy LU -6.3 Support and encourage the expansion of the resort industry as a key component of the City's economic base. Goal LU -7 Innovative land uses in the Village and on Highway 111. Policy LU -7.1 Encourage the use of mixed use development in appropriate locations. Program LU -7.1.a: Establish a Mixed Use Overlay for all the commercial zoning designations. Policy LU -7.4 Develop incentives for Mixed Use projects. Program LU -7.4.a: Consider density bonuses, modified parking requirements, expedited entitlement and building permit processing and fee waivers for Mixed Use projects. Policy LU -7.6 Review and amend, as necessary, the Village Design Guidelines to allow maximum flexibility for Mixed Use projects. Goal SC -1 A community that provides the best possible quality of life for all its residents. Policy SC -1.4 Reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions at a minimum consistent with the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan (also see Air Quality Element). Program SC -1.4.a: Require all new development proposals to demonstrate consistency with the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan. Policy SC -1.5 All new development shall include resource efficient development principles. Program SC -1.5.a: All new development shall be constructed to meet or exceed CalGreen Building Codes. Program SC -1.5.b: Amend the Zoning Ordinance to provide incentives and development standard concessions for mixed use or energy efficient design. Program SC -1.5.c: New development projects shall include vehicular, pedestrian and bicycle connections to the greatest extent possible, both through the project and connecting to adjacent projects. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-6 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Program SC -1.5.d: New commercial and mixed use projects shall incorporate useable public spaces, and interconnect those public spaces consistent with resource efficient design principles. Policy SC -1.7 Encourage the retrofitting of existing buildings and projects with resource efficient design principles to the greatest extent possible. Program SC -1.7.a: Amend the Zoning Ordinance to provide incentives for the redevelopment of existing projects to include residential development, pedestrian and alternative transportation connections and improvements, and other design features. Program SC -1.7.b: Develop an enhanced program for the processing of entitlements for redevelopment projects which incorporates substantial resource efficient components, or propose conversion to mixed use. Program SC -1.7.c: Develop a financial incentive program for creative redevelopment of commercial projects into mixed use projects, particularly those that provide added economic development benefit to the City. Policy SC -1.8 Expand the City's participation in Healthy City programs. Program SC -1.8. c Encourage farmers' markets outside the Village, accessible to all parts of the City. Policy ED -1.3 Encourage the expansion of the Village as a specialty retail, dining and residential destination. Program ED - 1.3.a: Maintain, in the Zoning Ordinance, standards and guidelines that encourage the development of a pedestrian friendly, interconnected neighborhood with a balance of residential and commercial development. Program ED - 1.3.b: Include the Village in the Mixed Use Overlay in the Zoning Ordinance. Program ED - 1.3.c: Continue to sponsor and support special events in the Village and at the Civic Center, as a means of attracting visitors to the area. (;nAl R1n_1 The protection and preservation of native and environmentally significant biological resources and their habitats. Policy BIO -1.1 Continue to implement the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP). La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-7 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Program BIO -1.1.a: Building permits shall not be issued for projects required to pay the MSHCP local development mitigation fee until such time as the fee has been paid to the City. Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Sustainable Communities Strategy SCAG provided the City of La Quinta with a letter in response to the Notice of Preparation of the Draft EIR in November 2015. Comments from SCAG were related to the projects consistency with SCAGs 2012-2035 Regional Transportation Plan -Sustainable Communities Strategy document (RTPSCS), and how to evaluate the project. However, since then, SCAG has adopted the 2016-2040, RTPSCS (April 2016) with an updated set of Goals and Guiding Policies. It is the April 2016 RTPSCS that was used to evaluate the project. SB 375, the Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act of 2008, requires metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) such as SCAG to develop a Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) — an element of the RTP —to strive to reach the greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction target established for each region by the California Air Resources Board. SCAG's 2016-2040 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy is a plan for mobility, accessibility, sustainability and a high quality of life in the region. It is first and foremost, a transportation plan that integrates land use planning into its framework to improve mobility and access to transportation options in response to SB375. A natural segue from this concept is the idea that compact, walkable neighborhoods similar to that proposed in the Village Build -out Plan. The RTCSCS was adopted in April 2016 and is available at the following web address: http://scagrtpscs.net/Documents/2016/draft/d2016RTPSCS.pdf The Goals and Guiding Policies set forth in the 2016-2040 RTP/SCS are listed here. Most of these can be adapted and implemented at the local level by the City of La Quinta such as maximizing mobility and accessibility for all people and goods. This is being achieved by the City's commitment to good roads where intersections can accommodate round -abouts instead of 4 -way stops or traffic signals where vehicles stop and idle. 2016 RTP -SCS Goals 1. Align the plan investments and policies with improving regional economic development and competitiveness. 2. Maximize mobility and accessibility for all people and goods in the region. 3. Ensure travel safety and reliability for all people and goods in the region. 4. Preserve and ensure a sustainable regional transportation system. 5. Maximize the productivity of our transportation system. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-8 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING 6. Protect the environment and health of our residents by improving air quality and encouraging active transportation (e.g., bicycling and walking). 7. Actively encourage and create incentives for energy efficiency, where possible. 8. Encourage land use and growth patterns that facilitate transit and active transportation. 9. Maximize the security of the regional transportation system through improved system monitoring, rapid recovery planning, and coordination with other security agencies. Note: SCAG does not yet have an agreed-upon security performance measure. 2016 RTP -SCS Guiding Policies 1. Transportation investments shall be based on SCAG's adopted regional Performance Indicators. 2. Ensuring safety, adequate maintenance and efficiency of operations on the existing multimodal transportation system should be the highest RTP/SCS priorities for any incremental funding in the region. 3. RTP/SCS land use and growth strategies in the RTP/SCS will respect local input and advance smart growth initiatives. 4. Transportation demand management (TDM) and active transportation will be focus areas, subject to Policy 1. 5. HOV gap closures that significantly increase transit and rideshare usage will be supported and encouraged, subject to Policy 1. 6. The RTP/SCS will support investments and strategies to reduce non -recurrent congestion and demand for single occupancy vehicle use, by leveraging advanced technologies. 7. The RTP/SCS will encourage transportation investments that result in cleaner air, a better environment, a more efficient transportation system and sustainable outcomes in the long run. 8. Monitoring progress on all aspects of the Plan, including the timely implementation of projects, programs, and strategies, will be an important and integral component of the Plan. Village Land Use Design Guidelines Development in the Village Build -out Plan project area is currently subject to the standards set forth in the Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines. One element of the proposed Build -out Plan is the rescinding of the design guidelines and reliance on the City's Development Review procedures that require that a project be subject to review by the Architectural and Landscape Review Board and the Planning Commission. This is discussed further in Section 5.9.4, Project Impact Analysis. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-9 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING 5.9.4 Project Impact Analysis Thresholds of Significance The thresholds for this section are derived from Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, and are used to determine the level of potential effect. The significant criteria are at least, in part, based on the recommendations set forth in Section 15064 of the CEQA Guidelines. In addition, the City is including a threshold to address impacts associated with potential for a project to adversely impact parking in the Village Build -out Plan project area. For analysis purposes, the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan would have a significant effect on land use and planning if it is determined that the project will: 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 any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan; and d. Cause a significant reduction in the amount of parking available in the Village Build -out Plan project area. a. Divide an Established Community Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will not physically divide an established community. The objective of the Build -out Plan is to focus development onto existing undeveloped vacant lots and redevelop underutilized properties, when the opportunity arises, with a variety of mixed-use residential and commercial development by offering dining, entertainment and a wide variety of specialty retail options including boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, professional offices and services, and hotels. As discussed above, the Village Commercial designation allows for the proposed increased residential density of up to 20-30 dwelling units per acre, which is higher than the density allowed under the High Density Residential designation of up to 16 dwelling units per acre. Table 5.9-2, Existing and Potential New Development in the Project Area, lists new land uses that could be developed on the vacant parcels, and potential land uses that could be developed on the underutilized properties. As discussed in Chapter 3, Project Description, the Villas at Old Town, a mixed-use project recently approved, consists of 20,000 square feet of ground floor retail space, underground parking, and 84 condominiums above, and to be built in two phases on an approximately 3.5 -acre site at the southeast corner of Calle Tampico and Desert Club Drive. The project represents a density of 24 units per acre. This project is also included in the build -out calculations as shown in Table 5.9-2. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-10 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING There are currently 33 single family and 251 multi -family dwelling units within the Village Build -out Plan area. Most of these are found along the south side of Calle Tampico between Eisenhower Drive and Avenida Villa, the northwestern portion of the Build -out Plan project area (Silverhawk Apartments), and along the west side of Eisenhower Drive between Calle Tampico and Avenida Montezuma. All of these existing residential areas will remain unaffected by the Plan. Therefore, impacts in regard to dividing an established community as a result of implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will be less than significant. Table 5.9-2 Existing and Potential New Development in the Project Area Source: City of La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Land Use Data, August 2015. Notes: 1. Residential unit count includes existing residences b. Conflict with Applicable Land Use Plans and Policies Village at La Quinta Design Guideline As part of the proposed project, the Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines, adopted in 1998 will be rescinded as the City believes that the guidelines have become outdated and are too restrictive with regard to types of architecture and landscape that are currently being considered in the Village. The General Plan Land Use Element includes Goal LU -7.4 to develop incentives for Mixed Use Projects, and Policy 7.6 to review and amend, as necessary, the Village Design Guidelines to allow maximum flexibility for Mixed Use projects. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-11 August 2016 Existing Potential Existing New Non - Land Use Acres Residential New Non- Residential Units Residential Residential Square TOTAL (DU)l Units (DU) Square Feet Feet Vacant Land 20.70 -- 436 -- 288,330 -- Land with the Potential for 30.20 -- 794 12,400 511,456 -- Redevelopment Existing Developed 284 DU Properties with no +290 hotel Change in Land Use 85.90 rooms & -- 139,525 -- or Increased Density casitas 284 DU 1482 DU, 290 +290 hotel hotel/ casita Total 136.74 1,230 DU 151,925 799.786 rooms & 960,711 casitas square feet Source: City of La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Land Use Data, August 2015. Notes: 1. Residential unit count includes existing residences b. Conflict with Applicable Land Use Plans and Policies Village at La Quinta Design Guideline As part of the proposed project, the Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines, adopted in 1998 will be rescinded as the City believes that the guidelines have become outdated and are too restrictive with regard to types of architecture and landscape that are currently being considered in the Village. The General Plan Land Use Element includes Goal LU -7.4 to develop incentives for Mixed Use Projects, and Policy 7.6 to review and amend, as necessary, the Village Design Guidelines to allow maximum flexibility for Mixed Use projects. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-11 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING City staff has reviewed the guidelines in light of recent development proposals in the Village, and has recommended that the Village Design Guidelines be rescinded and instead, rely on its Development Review Procedures which include the following elements: • Pre -application Review • Site Development Permit • Conditional Use Permit In addition, development projects are subject to review by the Architectural and Landscape Review Board, and the Planning Commission. These procedures implement the goals and policies of the General Plan Land Use Element for high quality design (Goal LU -2), allow a full range of retail, resort, and institutional businesses in the City (Goal LU -6, Policy 6.1), encourage innovative land uses in the Village (Goal LU -7), and develop incentives for Mixed Use projects by considering density bonuses, modified parking requirements, expedited entitlement and building permit processing and fee waivers for mixed use projects ( Goal 7.4, Policy 7.4a). Therefore, rescinding the Village Design Guidelines would have a less than significant on the Village environment by allowing a more flexible process for reviewing and approving a variety of architectural styles, densities and heights, that will blend together creating a more dynamic and creative Village. Zoning Code Amendment The proposed Village Build -out Plan includes a Zoning Code Amendment to modify the text regarding height restrictions for the Village Commercial designation. The proposed zone text amendment would be subject to discretionary review, and if adopted, would allow forthe construction of buildings up to 60 feet in height, subject to the City's Development Review procedures outlined above. Other than the proposed zone text amendment, no changes in land use or zoning are proposed for the Village Build -out Plan project area. Nonetheless, all development projects proposed within the project area would be subject to payment of development impact fees (DIF) and Quimby Act fees. Furthermore, by amending the zone text for the Village Commercial designation, development in regard to amended height restrictions would have more flexibility to take advantage of underutilized properties, and would assist in meeting General Plan GOAL LU -6 by strengthening and balancing the economic base. Calle Tampico as an Image Corridor The intent of the amendment is to preserve Calle Tampico as a designated Image Corridor which currently offers direct views of the nearby Coral Mountains to the west. See Section 5.1 Aesthetics, for a discussion of Image Corridors. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-12 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING SCAG RTP/SCS The RTP/SCS considers new patterns of development as the regional economy continues to recover and grow, the composition of our population changes, the housing market responds to evolving needs, and demands and mobility innovations emerge. The Plan also includes a long-term strategic vision for the region that will help guide decisions for transportation and how we use land, as well as the public investments in both, through 2040. According to the RTP/SCS (page 50), planning for the future includes facing challenges, including the convergence of interests between two distinct population groups—millennials, who today range in age from 20 to 35, and aging baby boomers, who range in age from 51 to 70. Millennials represent 22.4 percent of the region's total population and rely less on automobiles than have previous generations; they are less apt to acquire drivers licenses, drive fewer miles and conduct fewer overall trips. SCAG's research also shows that millennials often prefer to live in denser, mixed-use urban areas well served by transit, rather than decentralized suburban areas. This trend has resulted in an increasing demand for new multifamily housing. Millennials also are more likely than other groups to embrace a range of mobility options, including shared cars, biking, transit and walking. These evolving preferences for transportation and housing are significant because Millennials will account for a large part of Southern California's overall population in 2040. In the near term, their housing and transportation preferences, when combined with the needs of baby boomers to maintain their independence, and who are also downsizing and looking for housing options, could significantly change how Southern California develops. The proposed Village Build -out Plan is right in line with the intent of the RTP/SCS goals and guiding policies regarding the creation of opportunities to increase densities of both residential and non- residential uses, to accommodate millennials seeking denser, mixed use urban areas and baby boomers downsizing and looking for opportunities to remain independent as they age by reducing the need to drive for goods and services. C. Conflict with Conservation Plans Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will not conflict with an established conservation plan adopted by the City. The nearest point of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area, the closest CVMSHCP conservation area, lies approximately 0.55 mile south of the Build -out Plan, which is the east branch of the Coral Mountains. Because the Build -out Plan is located within the CVMHCP fee area, all future development projects within the Build -out Plan will be subject to a mitigation fee to ensure the future availability of funds to purchase regional conservation lands. These fees are intended to offset the potential impacts of development on the natural environment. Payment of CVMHCP fees will meet General Plan GOAL BIO -1 and Policy BIO -1.1 by protecting, La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-13 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING preserving and continuing the City's implementation of the CVMSHCP. Therefore, project impacts in regard to conflict with conservation plans will be less than significant. d. Cause a Significant Reduction in the Amount of Parking Available in the Village Parking Demand Management The City of La Quinta approved the Village District Parking Study in 2006 that identified short-term and long-term strategies to improve parking in the Village. The study identified 2,919 parking spaces within the study area, with 2,417 spaces in off- street parking lots, and the remaining 502 space located on the streets within the project area. Residential parking was not counted toward the total. In September 2015, the City Council adopted Ordinance 528 to approve Zoning Ordinance Amendment 2015-0001, amending Section 9.150.060 (spaces required by use) to allow for a reduced number of required parking spaces for properties within the Village Commercial Zoning District. The staff report indicated that additional parking demand may be experienced at existing on -street parking, the City parking lot at Avenida Bermudas/Montezuma, and existing private parking lots; however, a majority of the time on -street parking and the City parking lot are not fully utilized. The exception is during special events and peak periods in season. The Ordinance was adopted to codify the practice already undertaken by the City to allow a reduction by approximately 50 percent of the amount of parking allowed by land use in the Village Commercial Zoning District. Since 2006, a number of new projects have been developed in the Village Build -out Plan project area. These projects added an additional 386 off-street parking spaces, increasing the total number of spaces in parking lots to 2,803. The more recent projects are listed in Table 5.9-3, Village Construction Since 2006, and shown in Exhibit 5.9-2, Village Parking Aerial. Following Exhibit 5.9-2 are three exhibits with photos of the sites enumerated in Exhibit 5.9-2. These are: Exhibit 5.9-3, Village Parking Study Photos — West, Exhibit 5.9-4, Village Parking Study Photos — Northeast, and Exhibit 5.9-5, Village Parking Study Photos — Southeast. Table 5.9-3 Village Construction Since 2006 Project Parking Demand per City Requirements' Parking Supply Included with Project2 Village Park Animal Hospital 29 16 La Quinta Museum 27 8 Cornell Building 46 19 Tower Market 19 19 Old Town (Avenida Bermudas) 176 42 Old Town (Desert Club Drive) 176 40 Plaza at Calle Tampico 160 165 Plaza Estado 43 25 La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-14 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Table 5.9-3 Village Construction Since 2006 (Continued) Project Parking Demand per City Requirements' Parking Supply Included with Project' Dixon Building 18 17 Kelly Building 26 19 Nispero/Sun Vista Offices 28 16 Total Parking Spaces 748 386 Source: City of La Quinta Subsequent Parking Analysis, 2016. Notes: 1. Parking Demand based on City Zoning Ordinance prior to adoption of Ordinance 528 in September 2015. 2. Allowed on a project by project basis, based on type of use, and the concept of trip combining whereby visitors frequent more than one business during their trip. Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will allow the continued development of the Village with a mix of residential, retail, commercial office and professional office uses to create an urban environment at a human scale, with fewer motor vehicles, so that people feel comfortable walking, riding a bicycle, or driving an electric golf cart to and around the Village. Future residential development projects will be required to provide adequate parking for units built. However, for the other uses and as discussed above, the mixed use concept provides efficiencies of land use whereby people will likely visit one or more restaurants, shops or offices during a trip to the Village, resulting in a lower demand for parking than what is generally required for individual land uses. And, because the Build -out Plan includes both residential and non-residential uses, local residents would not have to drive to shop or obtain commercial or professional services. As documented in The City of La Quinta Village District Parking Study (Carl Walker, Inc. 2006), significant parking surplus existed in almost all study areas within the Village. However, most of the surplus parking in the Village was designated as private with restricted use, which at that time, approximately 20.8 percent (or 606 spaces) were designated as public parking and with the remaining 79.2 percent (or 2,313 spaces) of parking supply restricted to private parking. To alleviate this unused potential, the study recommended that the City adopt a methodology within the study (Section 3.03) pertinent to, 1) monitoring parking utilization, 2) applying parking demand ratios in a shared parking model, and 3) improving the utilization of nearby parking supplies. Furthermore, fulfillment of a quantification analysis for each individual project within the Build -out Plan should be performed in order to determine project's cumulative impact in creating deficit parking and to provide additional measures to counteract this deficit. These recommendations have been incorporated into the Parking Demand Management strategies identified in this Section. Based on City Municipal Code Section 9.150.060 and the assumption that two spaces are needed per dwelling unit and one space is needed for every 250 square feet of commercial development, there will be a need for 5,680 parking spaces at build out of the village, based on proposed land uses. If it La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-15 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING is assumed that fifty percent of the required parking will be developed, which is consistent with projects developed in the Village since 2006 (See Table 5.9-3), there will be a need for 2,840 parking spaces. As documented in The City of La Quinta Village District Parking Study (Carl Walker, Inc. 2006), there was a surplus of 1,434 parking spaces in 2006, but projects developed since 2006 have reduced the surplus to 1,072 spaces. Therefore at build out of the Village, there will be a need for at least 1,768 parking spaces to accommodate the additional proposed development and redevelopment. At approximately 300 square feet per parking space, 12 acres of land will be needed for surface level parking, 6 acres for parking structures with two levels, and 4 acres for parking structures with three levels. Parking structures will likely require additional area to accommodate for ramps, stairways, etc.) This is assuming that all these parking spaces would need to be developed within the Village. However, through implementation of the Parking Demand Management Strategies (Table 5.4-9), there may be opportunities for remote parking with shuttle service, shared parking between adjacent properties, and peripheral locations for parking lots. Parking Management Strategies The City is committed to limiting the number of motor vehicles that enter the Village through the implementation of traffic calming (round -abouts) and pedestrian/bicycle infrastructure (enhanced sidewalks, bike lanes, etc.) and Parking Management Strategies. These are included below, followed by Table 5.9-4, Implementation Process for Parking Management Strategies, where a sample of the strategies that the City may adopt are shown to be implemented over a five-year period. PM -1. Educational Programs • Educate businesses on ways to incentivize carpooling, public transportation, walking, and bicycling as a mode of transportation for employees. • Educate the public about the operations and benefits of various parking strategies as these are implemented within the study area. PM -2. Static Parking Information • Continue static event -based signage during events such as the La Quinta Arts Foundation Festival, the Old Town Car Show, and other events in the La Quinta Village. • Enhance parking lot signage and branding of public parking lots. • Work with private parties to allow public parking on private parking lots when businesses are closed. • Consider regulating signage on private parking facilities. PM -3. Shared Parking • Condition new developments so they accommodate shared parking. PM -4. Spillover and Overflow Parking Management La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-16 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING • Conduct periodic parking occupancy studies in peak periods to determine and monitor the prevalence of shoppers and employers parking in residential areas, as well as maximum occupancy of current public areas. • Consider instituting resident -only parking programs as appropriate in areas where spillover and overflow parking becomes common. Programs based on community dialogue and pricing options. • Consider a pilot program for participation in an on -street parking program, in which residents may park for free, shoppers and employees pay to park, and revenue is used for neighborhood improvements. PM -5. Transit/Shuttle • Create a transit/shuttle program similar to the programs used on EI Paseo in Palm Desert, as well as Downtown Palm Springs. Identify peak periods of parking to allow for shuttling shoppers and employees to and from Old Town focal point. This will provide for more convenient access and service available to parking located furthest away from the center of the La Quinta Village. PM -6. Walkability to Improve Parking Utilization • Establish a system of walking routes specialized towards a topic such as historic sites like the La Quinta Museum, arts like the Old Town Artisan Studio, or health -oriented walking loops. PM -7. Class 3 Bikeway to Improve Parking Utilization • Consider construction of a Class 3 Bikeway (Shared Lane) within the heart of Old Town and following through the Walkability improvements for greater promotion of a healthy -living lifestyle, tourism, and alleviation in overflow parking. Confirmation of this recommendation would require engineering studies to determine the feasibility and costs of this strategy. Parking Supply Strategies PS -1. Peripheral Parking • Establish peripheral locations that will allow for access during all events and summer. • Seek enhancements such as shading and walking paths to address heat issues. • Enter into partnerships with landowners and businesses to build peripheral parking structures and/or surface spaces. PS -2. Capacity Enhancements in Summer (Off -Season) • Construct shaded walkway from off-site parking to destinations of shoppers and employees. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-17 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-18 August 2016 • i d' -- - '�,� • � �yYr � '` ice. ,.� : ��� ivy n ��� - • y --f- tY't'Y' i Fd, .r•r -��. F ' r :� ri�REhl,G�lA9E i po Nor E .04 4 6 A. W _ �'� - _ " «: - 1 fir._ 4 • " �..�w lest t�►. , 14 'ak .. a' Y.. � Al ■,pia `� CA f AL.• E EST MEW -4 Lu IU9 1d - ii w 1q . �� !� �r a daft rCALE 4- r ' HIDALGO" v t dJL ! V %Q5NU U ,.�l fWN— Source: City of La Quinta, 2016 EL15 The Altum Group Village Parking Aerial La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5.9-2 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-20 August 2016 I I Village Park Animal Hospital 51-230 Eisenhower Drive 3 1 Cornell Building 77-935 Calle Tampico Road Source: The Altum Group, 2016 EI15 The Altum Group 2 La Quinta Museum sem* . I F i 77-885 Avenida Montezuma 41 Tower Market 77-985 Avenida Montezuma Village Parking Study Photos - West La Quinta Village Build Out Plan EIR Exhibit 5.9-3 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-22 August 2016 5 1 Old Town (Avenida Bermudas) Southeast Corner of Calle Tampico and Avenida Bermudas 7 Plaza at Calle Tampico 78-134 Calle Tampico Road Source: The Altum Group, 2016 EI15 The Altum Group 6 1 Old Town (Desert Club Dr.) 77-885 Avenida Montezuma 7 con't I Plaza at Calle Tampico Jules Market 78-130 Calle Tampico Road Village Parking Study Photos - Northeast La Quinta Village Build Out Plan EIR Exhibit 5.9-4 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-24 August 2016 81 Plaza Estado 78-115 Calle Estado 101 Kelly Building 51-555 Desert Club Drive Source: The Altum Group, 2016 EI15 The Altum Group 9 1 Dixon Building 51-350 Desert Club Dr. 111 Nispero/Sun Vista Offices 51-625 Desert Club Drive Village Parking Study Photos - Southeast La Quinta Village Build Out Plan EIR Exhibit 5.9-5 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-26 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Zoning/Administration Strategies PZ -1. Parking Conditions • Condition new developments, major remodels, and CUPS to include applicable parking management strategies. PZ -2. Parking Time Limits and Regulations • Create parking time limits and regulations under a pricing system and determine whether modifications are required to time limits for special events and in -season activities. PZ -3. Business Improvement District • Determine if the business community is interested in a Business Improvement District, to create an assessment formula with revenue generated and reinvested into parking, and access management programs to benefit the Village area. Table 5.9-4 is not intended to be a complete list but rather an example of the strategies that are likely to be adopted in the Village to provide the greatest opportunities for motor vehicle parking given that the alternative transportation modes to get into and around the Village will play a greater role in mobility under the Village Build -out Plan. For example, although listed in the menu of strategies, paid parking stalls or metered parking are not included in Table 5.9-4. These strategies would be discussed with the business community at such time that a Business Improvement District is considered, which is listed in Table 5.9-4 as occurring in Year 2. Proposed traffic infrastructure improvements in the Village include converting some stop controlled intersections to roundabouts, constructing enhanced sidewalks and protected bike/golf cart lanes, and provide additional pedestrian street crossings to encourage residents and visitors to walk, bicycle, or ride a golf cart rather than coming to the Village by car. Implementation of parking strategies such as creating peripheral parking lots, shuttle service and, where feasible, conditioning new projects to enter into shared parking agreements will reduce parking demand. Furthermore, requiring new projects to perform a quantification analysis and incorporate methodology from the 2006 Traffic Study would further ensure reduced parking demand. By implementing these strategies through Mitigation Measure LU -1, impacts in regard to parking demand will be reduced to less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-27 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Table 5.9-4 Implementation Process for Parking Management Strategies Entity Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 and 5 Continue static Enhance branding for Expand Expand event -based signage lots and regulate Walkability Walkability (PM2) signage (PM2) Routes (PM6) Routes (PM6) Pilot program for Conduct parking shuttle service (PM5) occupancy studyto Condition new review progress (PM4) City developments so Expand Walkability they accommodate Routes (PM6) shared parking. Class 3 Bikeway (PM3) implemented (PM7) Seek peripheral location for parking (psi) Partner with City on Implement Education Implement Implement City & Business designing education Program (PM1) Education Education Community programs for Establish a Business Program Program (PM1) community (PM1) Improvement District (PM1) (PZ 3) City &Parking Partner with City on Condition new Operators/ shared parking developments so they Designated Staff explorations (PM3) accommodate shared parking. (PM3) Participate with City Expand Expand City & Residential in monitoring Walkability Walkability programs (PM4) Routes (PM6) Routes (PM6) Community Establish Walkability Routes (PM6) 5.9.5 Cumulative Impacts The Village Build -out Plan project area is a unique area in the City of La Quinta and development within the project area will occur within the 137 -acre project area, over a period of many years. The Plan is consistent with existing land use designations and building heights and densities will be considered on a case by case basis as projects are proposed. Therefore, with thoughtful planning of new development and adherence to goals, policies and programs as identified in this Section, all new development within the Village Build -out Plan project area will assist in minimizing cumulative impacts in regard to land use and cumulative impacts are expected to be less than significant. With regard to SCAG's RTPSCS strategies, the successful implementation of the Village Build -out Plan would be in line with many of the goals and guiding policies, by creating a neighborhood of residential and non-residential uses where residents can live, work and play without getting into a motor vehicle, La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-28 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING and where visitors can park and walk or bike through the Village. This would result in the reduction on the generation of greenhouse gasses which is the major goal of SB 375. The SCAG goals that can be applied to the Village Build -out Plan are repeated here but revised to specifically show how the Village Build -out Plan addresses them. Some goals are truly regional and do not translate at the local level, and these have not been repeated here. RTP/SCS Goals 2. Maximize mobility and accessibility for all people and goods in the City. The City can achieve this goal with the Village Build -out Plan by having flexible zoning districts where a mix of uses are allowed either by right or by CUP, and by making road improvements to increase pedestrian/bicycle access and safety, and by replacing intersection stop controls with roundabouts that allow the continuous flow of traffic, 3. Ensure travel safety and reliability for all people and goods in the City. By making the road improvements identified in this EIR, this goal can be achieved in the Village. (see Exhibit 4-8 in Chapter 4, Project Description, and evaluated in Section 5.14, Traffic and Circulation). 6. Protect the environment and health of our residents by improving air quality and encouraging active transportation (e.g., bicycling and walking). (see explanation in the previous bullet) 7. Actively encourage and create incentives for energy efficiency, where possible. This is achieved through the City's commitment to reducing energy usage through implementation of mitigation measures in Section 5.2, Air Quality that include the requirement that development projects exceed the energy standards set forth in the California Building Code Energy Efficiency Standards, require low -flow water fixtures in all new projects, and require installation of ENERGY STAR compliant appliances. 8. Encourage land use and growth patterns that facilitate transit and active transportation. The intent of the Village Build -out Plan is to encourage such growth in the City's traditional downtown core —the Village, in order to create a sustainable community where residents and visitors do not have to depend on motor vehicles as transportation; where pedestrian and bicycle improvements are being made that allow the safe travel paths throughout the Village, and where SunLine can increase its presence in the area as demand to visit the Village grows. RTC/SCS Guiding Policies 3. RTP/SCS land use and growth strategies in the RTP/SCS will respect local input and advance smart growth initiatives. SCAG encourages cities to adopt local strategies for meeting the intent of SB 375 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By implementing the Village Build -out Plan, the City of La Quinta intends to reduce dependence on motor vehicles, and require energy efficient residential and non-residential uses to be developed, thus reducing these emissions. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-29 August 2016 5.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING 4. Transportation demand management (TDM) and active transportation will be focus areas, subject to SCAG's adopted regional performance indicators. Locally, the City of La Quinta is adopting TDM and active transportation strategies (see discussion in Chapter 4, Project Description, beginning on page 4-23, and also in Section 5.14, Traffic and Circulation, beginning on page 5.14-77). 7. The RTP/SCS will encourage transportation investments that result in cleaner air, a better environment, a more efficient transportation system and sustainable outcomes in the long run. The Village Build -out Plan is consistent with these guiding policies by creating safe pedestrian and cycling infrastructure (new sidewalks and bike lanes), allowing electric vehicles (golf carts) to also use the bike lanes, and increasing the number of roundabouts in the Village to eliminate 4 -way stop controlled intersection (either stop signs or traffic signals). It is the City's intent to maximize the use of roundabouts, bike lanes, and enhanced sidewalks (wider) to reduce vehicle trips and thus reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 5.9.6 Mitigation Measures LU -1 The City of La Quinta is committed to the success of the Village becoming a more livable place by creating a more accessible place for residents and visitors to live and visit while downplaying the need for motor vehicles. To that end, and for each new individual project, the City shall implement a required quantification analysis, methodology in the 2006 City of La Quinta Village District Parking Study, parking management strategies, parking supply strategies, and zoning/administration strategies beginning with those identified in Table 5.9-4. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting A. The Planning Division is responsible for reviewing each project that is proposed within the Build- out Plan project area in consideration of parking requirements. Responsible Parties: Planning Division. 5.9.7 Level of Significance after Mitigation With implementation of parking management strategies as set forth in Table 5.9-4, a required quantification analysis, methodology in the 2006 City of La Quinta Village District Parking Study, and conducting annual parking occupancy studies in peak periods to determine and monitor the prevalence of shoppers and employers parking in residential areas, as well as maximum occupancy of current public areas, impacts on the Village associated with reduction in the amount of parking availability, would be reduced to less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.9-30 August 2016 5.10 NOISE 5.10 Noise 5.10.1 Introduction This section describes existing noise conditions in the La Quinta Village and analyzes the potential impacts caused by various potential noise sources associated with build out of future projects in the proposed Village Build -Out Plan. This noise section does not evaluate noise impacts for a specific project, but analyzes the future impacts that are anticipated to occur in the project area over time. The results of the acoustical analysis prepared for the 2035 General Plan are presented in this section of the EIR. This section also sets forth noise -related mitigation measures, which will effectively reduce construction, operational and traffic noise impacts to acceptable levels. Sources for the preparation of this section are listed in Chapter 9, References. 5.10.2 Existing Conditions Noise is defined as unwanted sound and can have serious physiological and psychological effects on people, ranging from the disturbance of sleep to hearing loss. Although noise has been accepted as a necessary by-product of urban development, it can become an environmental hazard. A variety of components of the urban environment generate noise; these include construction equipment and activities, motor vehicles, air traffic, mechanical equipment, household appliances, and other sources. Primary sources of noise throughout the City are caused primarily by motor vehicle traffic on City streets, particularly major roadways. This includes general operation of cars, trucks, and bus lines. Other noise generators in the City include those associated with commercial uses and construction noise. Construction noise is generally short-term and is generated by construction equipment, including trucks, bulldozers, graders, concrete mixers, pile drivers and other mobile and fixed construction equipment. The effects of noise increase dramatically when incompatible land uses are located next to one another. Potential land use incompatibilities include residential areas or other sensitive receptors located near industrial and commercial uses. Noise Fundamentals The changes in air pressure which result in sound are most often measured in decibels (dB). That measurement is further modified by the A -weighted decibel scale (dBA), which gives less weight to very low and very high sounds, consistent with the way a human ear reacts to sound. A conversation between two people measures about 60 dBA, while construction equipment can register at 110 dBA. Most people cannot identify an increase in sound of less than 3 dB, and the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-1 August 2016 5.10 NOISE structure of the human ear causes us to perceive that a sound that is 10 dB higher than another is twice as loud. The City of La Quinta measures intensity of sound and bases noise standards on the Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL). CNEL is the average intensity of a sound over a 24-hour period. It accounts for the decrease in background noise levels that occur during evening and nighttime hours, as well as people's increased sensitivity to noise during these times. Penalty factors are added for sounds that occur in evening and nighttime hours. Noise sources can result from "line sources" or "point sources". Line sources include linear sources of noise, such as a freeway or busy street. Point sources are generally stationary, such as HVAC units or air compressors. Noise transmission is affected by a variety of factors, such as temperature, wind speed and direction, as well as the type of ground surface. Soft ground surfaces tend to reduce sound levels better than hard surfaces. This reduction of sound intensity caused by surfaces, walls, vegetation or other material is called attenuation. Effective noise barriers, such as walls or berms, can help reduce noise levels by 10 to 15 decibels. These types of barriers can provide relief from traffic noise. Vegetation, on the other hand, is less effective for reducing noise levels. For a noise barrier to work, walls need to be high enough and long enough to block the view of a road. Regulatory Setting The State has established guidelines for appropriate noise level ranges for a variety of land uses within a community. The range of allowable exterior noise levels for various land uses is shown in Table 5.10-1, Land Use Compatibility for Community Noise Environments. This matrix is used to ensure noise compatibility of proposed land uses and helps predict the future noise environment. Where sensitive land uses will be exposed to noise levels of 60 dBA CNEL or higher, an acoustical study is required, according to the La Quinta General Plan. In residential areas in California, the standard is a CNEL of 65 dBA. Mitigation measures are required where sensitive land uses will be exposed to noise levels greater than 65 dBA CNEL. Interior noise standards are provided by Chapter 12 of the California Building Code. According to the Code, interior noise levels from exterior sources shall not exceed 45 dB in any habitable room. Section 9.100.210 of the City's Municipal Code establishes base ambient noise level limits for noise sensitive and other non-residential uses based on time of day. Table 5.10-2, Exterior Noise Limits, shows exterior noise limits established by the City. Noise sensitive land uses include residential uses, schools, hospitals, churches, daycare, and similar uses. All other uses must comply with the "Other Non -Residential" standard. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-2 August 2016 5.10 NOISE Table 5.10-1 Exterior Noise Limits Exterior Noise Standards Receiving Land Use Noise Standard Time Period Noise sensitive 60 dB(A) 50 dB(A) 7:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. 10:00 p.m. -7:00 a.m. Other nonresidential 75 dB(A) 65 dB(A) 7:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. 10:00 p.m. -7:00 a.m. Source: City of La Quinta Municipal Code, Section 9.100.210 The Municipal Code also establishes limits on construction activity during the day. Construction noise is considered temporary, but can often be disruptive for surrounding land uses. Section 6.08.050 of the Municipal Code limits construction to the following hours: October 1St through April 30th: Monday — Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday and Holidays: None May 1St through September 30th: Monday — Friday: 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday and Holidays: None In addition, the Municipal Code Section 9.100.220 states: "No use, except a temporary construction operation, shall be permitted which generates inherent and recurrent ground vibration perceptible, without instruments, at the boundary of the lot on which the use is located." Existing Noise Measurements in the General Plan Area The existing noise environment in the City was determined by both short-term and long-term noise level monitoring during the acoustical analysis completed for the 2035 General Plan update. One short-term and one long-term analysis point were located within the La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan project area. Exhibit 5.10-1, Noise Measurement Locations, shows where short-term and 24- hour noise measurements were taken for the General Plan. Table 5.10-3, Existing Ambient Hourly and 24 -Hour Noise Level Measurements In and Near the Village, shows receptor locations in the Village and in neighborhoods near the Village. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-3 August 2016 5.10 NOISE Table 5.10-2 Land Use Compatibility for Community Noise Environments Land Uses CNEL (dBA) 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 Residential --- Single Family Dwellings, Duplex, Mobile Homes A B C Residential — Multiple Family A B C D Transient Lodging: Hotels and Motels g g' A B C D School Classrooms, Libraries, Churches, Hospitals, Nursing Homes and Convalescent Hospitals A B C D Auditoriums, Concert Halls, Amphitheaters B C Sports Arenas, Outdoor Spectator Sports B C Playgrounds, Neighborhood Parks A C D Golf Courses, Riding Stables, Water Recreation, Cemeteries A C D Office Buildings, Business, Commercial and Professional A B D Industrial, Manufacturing, Utilities, Agriculture A B D Source: California Department of Health Services, "Guidelines for the Preparation and Content of the Noise Element of the General Plan," 1990 A Normally Acceptable: With no special noise reduction requirements assuming standard construction. Conditionally Acceptable: New construction or development should be undertaken only after B a detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirement is made and needed noise insulation features included in the design Normally Unacceptable: New construction is discouraged. If new construction does proceed, a C detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements must be made and needed noise insulation features included in the design. Clearly Unacceptable: New construction or development should generally not be undertaken. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-4 August 2016 l fip } Twirl' 4A p A fit, Ike 10 wo OL =--:� 1 t r1r, : oito .r+ . � � � i 11F•x. � i • r � I k "�K� � S.. .t��'/ �� 4• �. !. t s a eIt rr - + ■ . } 'i � ti� •+ice d IfF 0. 0-� .. . • ' • i • • . 7 � �' ,,,y. Y i1L ray - , q V �H � • • • • !1■' •! l ..._ ■ � � �l �r 1 y+ � ("R 1 .h 'tel � S • . • • • 1 �_�r �"� ��o �p D o o o - p�QQ��o �fI��P - o o�o �o ��%�°- I�o � �p ��o o �o 5.10 NOISE This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-6 August 2016 5.10 NOISE Table 5.10-3 Existing Ambient Hourly and 24 -Hour Noise Level Measurements In and Near the Village Source: Table 111-30, page 111-141, La Quinta General Plan 2035 EIR, 2013. A second ambient noise measurement was taken in the neighborhood along Avenida Bermudas, approximately 400 feet south of Avenue 52. This was a short term measurement taken at 11:12 am. The noise level was recorded as 66.2 Leq dBA and 71.3 dBA CNEL. Throughout the City, short-term noise levels ranged between 57.7 dBA Leq and 69.3 dBA Leq (61.5 dBA CNEL to 72.9 dBA CNEL). The ambient noise levels within the La Quinta Village were measured at 66.2 dBA Leq. During long-term analysis, measurements were monitored for a 24-hour period to assess ambient hourly noise levels. Throughout the City, the 24-hour noise levels ranged between 43.1 dBA Lea and 72.6 dBA Leq (58.9 dBA CNEL to 72.7 dBA CNEL). The 24-hour noise level taken within the La Quinta Village, measured between 43.1 and 65.4 dBA Leq (58.9 dBA CNEL). Data indicated that traffic peak hours generally resulted in the highest noise levels. Primary Noise Sources As discussed previously, existing ambient noise sources in La Quinta are generally associated with motor vehicle traffic. This includes truck traffic and noise generated from local buses. Other noise sources include air traffic generated from the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport and Bermuda Dunes Airport, noise from commercial and local business operations, including truck loading and operation of mechanical equipment, and construction noise, which impacts development in proximity to the construction activities and equipment. Each of these noise sources is discussed categorically below. Table 5.10-4, Existing Noise Exposure Adjacent to the Village, shows the available existing contours of the major roadways surrounding the project area, including Calle Tampico, Avenue 52, and Avenida Bermudas. These roads pass near sensitive land uses, such as residential neighborhoods and schools. Avenue 52 has noise levels exceeding 65 dBA CNEL at 100 feet from centerline. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-7 August 2016 Hourly Noise Daily Noise Time of Location Primary Noise Source Levels (Leq Levels (dBA Measurement dBA) CNEL) Next to the Crab Pot at the Traffic on Avenida La southwest corner of Avenida February 2-3, Fonda and ambient 43.1-65.4 58.9 La Fonda and Desert Club Dr 2011 noise within the Village Source: Table 111-30, page 111-141, La Quinta General Plan 2035 EIR, 2013. A second ambient noise measurement was taken in the neighborhood along Avenida Bermudas, approximately 400 feet south of Avenue 52. This was a short term measurement taken at 11:12 am. The noise level was recorded as 66.2 Leq dBA and 71.3 dBA CNEL. Throughout the City, short-term noise levels ranged between 57.7 dBA Leq and 69.3 dBA Leq (61.5 dBA CNEL to 72.9 dBA CNEL). The ambient noise levels within the La Quinta Village were measured at 66.2 dBA Leq. During long-term analysis, measurements were monitored for a 24-hour period to assess ambient hourly noise levels. Throughout the City, the 24-hour noise levels ranged between 43.1 dBA Lea and 72.6 dBA Leq (58.9 dBA CNEL to 72.7 dBA CNEL). The 24-hour noise level taken within the La Quinta Village, measured between 43.1 and 65.4 dBA Leq (58.9 dBA CNEL). Data indicated that traffic peak hours generally resulted in the highest noise levels. Primary Noise Sources As discussed previously, existing ambient noise sources in La Quinta are generally associated with motor vehicle traffic. This includes truck traffic and noise generated from local buses. Other noise sources include air traffic generated from the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport and Bermuda Dunes Airport, noise from commercial and local business operations, including truck loading and operation of mechanical equipment, and construction noise, which impacts development in proximity to the construction activities and equipment. Each of these noise sources is discussed categorically below. Table 5.10-4, Existing Noise Exposure Adjacent to the Village, shows the available existing contours of the major roadways surrounding the project area, including Calle Tampico, Avenue 52, and Avenida Bermudas. These roads pass near sensitive land uses, such as residential neighborhoods and schools. Avenue 52 has noise levels exceeding 65 dBA CNEL at 100 feet from centerline. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-7 August 2016 5.10 NOISE Table 5.10-4 Existing Noise Exposure Adjacent to the Village Road Segment CNEL at Distance to Contour (Feet) from Centerline 100 Feet 70 dBA 65 dBA 60 dBA 55dBA (dBA) CNEL CNEL CNEL CNEL Calle Tampico Between Eisenhower Dr. & 61.9 RW 62 134 289 Avenida Bermudas Calle Tampico Between Avenida Bermudas 64.7 RW 95 204 440 & Washington Street Avenue 52 w/o Washington St. 66.7 60 130 280 603 Avenida Between Calle Tampico & 58.5 RW RW 80 172 Bermudas Avenue 52 Source: La Quinta General Plan EIR, Table III -32, Terra Nova, 2010. Ground -borne Vibration and Ground -borne Noise Levels Ground -borne vibration and noise are generally associated with construction activity, such as pile driving and grading, but are also generated from traffic. Vibration is defined as the periodic movement of mass over time, and is described in units of velocity (inches per second). It is discussed in decibel (dB) units in order to compress the range of numbers required to describe vibration. The human threshold of perception for vibration is 65 Vdb, or 0.0018 inches/second, and is not usually significant until 70 Vdb, or 0.0031 inches/second. Typical levels of ground vibration range between 50 Vdb and 100 Vdb. Vibration caused by bus and heavy truck traffic, for example, is generally around 65 Vdb. In comparison, construction related vibration can range between 90 Vdb and 100 Vdb. Ground -borne vibrations associated with construction and traffic attenuate rapidly as one moves away from the source. 5.10.3 Applicable Goals and Policies (,nrd AI -1 A healthful noise environmental which complements the City's residential and resort character. Policy N-1.1. Noise standards in the City shall be consistent with the Community Noise and Land Use Compatibility scale describes in this section. Program N -1.1.b.: Ensure that City Building Code standards include interior noise level standards that are consistent with the Community Noise and Land Use Compatibility scale. Policy N-1.2. New residential development located adjacent to any roadway identified in Table IV -4 of the General Plan as having a build -out noise level in excess of 65 dBA shall continue to be required to submit a noise impact analysis in conjunction with the first Planning Division application, which demonstrates compliance with the City's noise standards. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-8 August 2016 5.10 NOISE Table 5.10-5 Build Out Noise Levels' Road Segment CNEL at 100 Feet (dBA) Distance to Contour (Feet) 70 dBA CNEL 65 dBA CNEL 60 dBA CNEL 55 dBA CNEL Washington St. between Avenue 50/Calle Tampico 70.9 115 248 534 1,150 Eisenhower Dr. between Washington St./Avenue 50 68.1 74 160 346 745 Eisenhower Dr. between Avenue 50/Calle Tampico 66.6 59 128 275 593 Avenida Bermudas between Calle Tampico/Avenue 52 59.1 RW RW 87 188 Avenida Bermudas between Avenue 52/Calle Durango 63.6 RW 80 173 372 Calle Tampico between Eisenhower Dr./Avenida Bermudas 61.9 RW 62 134 289 Calle Tampico between Ave Bermudas/Washington St. 64.7 RW 95 204 440 Avenue 52 w/o Washington St. 66.7 60 130 280 603 Source: La Quinta General Plan 2035, annotated Table IV -4, 2013. Note: 1. Road Segments represent only those in and adjacent to the Village Commercial District. Policy N-1.3. New non-residential development located adjacent to existing residential development, sensitive receptors, or residentially designated land, shall be required to submit a noise impact analysis in conjunction with the first Planning Division application, which demonstrates that it will not significantly impact the adjacent residential development or residential land. Program N -1.3.a.: Provide accommodation for special events in the public interest, such as concerts and festivals, which may temporarily exceed the maximum allowable decibel level. Policy N-1.4 All Mixed Use projects shall be required to submit a noise impact analysis in conjunction with the first Planning Division application, which demonstrates compliance with the City's noise standards. Policy N-1.5 All noise impact analysis will include, at a minimum, short-term construction noise and noise generated by the daily operation of the project at build out. Policy N-1.6 The City may require remedial noise control plans and/or improvements for areas experiencing noise in excess of adopted City standards. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-9 August 2016 5.10 NOISE 5.10.4 Project Impacts Thresholds of Significance/Criteria for Determining Significance The CEQA Guidelines provide guidance for determining the significance of the environmental effects caused by a project. Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines provides a list of environmental factors that potentially may be affected by completion of a project. Implementation of the Village Build -Out Plan would have a significant effect on noise if it is determined the project: 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; b. Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive ground -borne vibration or groundborne noise levels; c. Causes a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project; d. Causes a substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project; e. If 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, a project would expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels; and f. If located within the vicinity of a private airstrip, a project would expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels. a/c/d. Generation of noise levels in excess of established standards, and periodic and permanent increase in ambient noise levels The City of La Quinta currently regulates noise levels for sensitive land uses. The City uses the noise levels shown in Table 5.10-2, as a guideline to achieve long-term noise compatibility for land uses. For example, the maximum exterior noise level within residential areas is a CNEL of 65 dBA. Mitigation measures are required where residential uses will be exposed to noise levels greater than 65 dBA CNEL. Existing noise sources in the City are generally from motor vehicle traffic, however noise is also generated from commercial and local business operations, and construction noise. Traffic Noise Future noise contours for major roadways in La Quinta were analyzed in the La Quinta General Plan EIR, based on build out of the General Plan Update to help determine the extent of future noise impacts associated with implementation of the General Plan. Table 5.10-5, Year 2035 Build -out Conditions Noise Contours, shows the future noise contours for roadways in and adjacent to the project area that were analyzed in the La Quinta General Plan EIR. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-10 August 2016 5.10 NOISE Table 5.10-6 Year 2035 Build -out Conditions Noise Contours Source: La Quinta General Plan EIR, Table III -33, Terra Nova, 2010. The goal of the Village Build -out Plan is to create a walkable mixed-use community with less reliability on vehicles, but an increase in population could result in more automobiles, trucks, and to a lesser extent buses. Therefore, noise levels along roadways throughout the project area are expected to increase. However, because the City envisions the Village to become a more pedestrian friendly district, traffic may not increase significantly with an increase in density. As discussed in Section 5.9. Land Use and Section 5.14 Traffic and Circulation, the City will be adopting parking management strategies including the use of remote parking lots and shuttle service into the Village (Section 5.9) and implementing a number of traffic calming strategies along with increasing pedestrian, bicycle and golf cart access into and around the project area (Section 5.14), thus reducing the reliance on the motor vehicle for trips into and through the Village. The City will continue to monitor ambient noise levels as new projects are proposed. This would be achieved through implementation of General Plan Noise Policy N-1.3 that requires new non-residential development located adjacent to existing residential development, sensitive receptors, or residentially designated land be required to submit a noise impact analysis in conjunction with the first Planning Division application. Noise studies will be required to be conducted on a project -by -project basis through Mitigation Measure N0I-1. Recommendations in each noise study shall be designed to reduce noise impacts from non-residential development to less than significant levels. Noise from Non-residential Land Uses In addition to new residential development, implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will facilitate construction of new non-residential land uses. Additional non-residential uses are proposed to be developed at build -out within the project area. Due to the mixed-use characteristics of the Village, sensitive land uses may be located adjacent to commercial areas. All land uses are required to comply with exterior noise levels set forth in the City's Noise Ordinance and General Plan, however additional mitigation measures may be required to reduce impacts on sensitive uses. Therefore, implementation of Mitigation Measure NOI-1 would be required. In addition, some land uses will require deliveries of food, beverages, and other supplies that would arrive by truck. Mitigation Measure NOI-2 will require La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-11 August 2016 CNEL Distance to Contour (Feet) from at 100 Centerline Road Segment 70 dBA 65 dBA 60 dBA 55dBA Feet (dBA) CNEL CNEL CNEL CNEL Calle Tampico Between Eisenhower Drive/Avenida 61.9 RW 62 134 289 Bermudas Calle Tampico between Avenida Bermudas/ 64.7 RW 95 204 440 Washington Street Avenue 52 w/o Washington Street 66.7 60 130 280 603 Avenida Bermudas Between Calle Tampico/ Avenue 52 59.1 RW RW 87 188 Source: La Quinta General Plan EIR, Table III -33, Terra Nova, 2010. The goal of the Village Build -out Plan is to create a walkable mixed-use community with less reliability on vehicles, but an increase in population could result in more automobiles, trucks, and to a lesser extent buses. Therefore, noise levels along roadways throughout the project area are expected to increase. However, because the City envisions the Village to become a more pedestrian friendly district, traffic may not increase significantly with an increase in density. As discussed in Section 5.9. Land Use and Section 5.14 Traffic and Circulation, the City will be adopting parking management strategies including the use of remote parking lots and shuttle service into the Village (Section 5.9) and implementing a number of traffic calming strategies along with increasing pedestrian, bicycle and golf cart access into and around the project area (Section 5.14), thus reducing the reliance on the motor vehicle for trips into and through the Village. The City will continue to monitor ambient noise levels as new projects are proposed. This would be achieved through implementation of General Plan Noise Policy N-1.3 that requires new non-residential development located adjacent to existing residential development, sensitive receptors, or residentially designated land be required to submit a noise impact analysis in conjunction with the first Planning Division application. Noise studies will be required to be conducted on a project -by -project basis through Mitigation Measure N0I-1. Recommendations in each noise study shall be designed to reduce noise impacts from non-residential development to less than significant levels. Noise from Non-residential Land Uses In addition to new residential development, implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will facilitate construction of new non-residential land uses. Additional non-residential uses are proposed to be developed at build -out within the project area. Due to the mixed-use characteristics of the Village, sensitive land uses may be located adjacent to commercial areas. All land uses are required to comply with exterior noise levels set forth in the City's Noise Ordinance and General Plan, however additional mitigation measures may be required to reduce impacts on sensitive uses. Therefore, implementation of Mitigation Measure NOI-1 would be required. In addition, some land uses will require deliveries of food, beverages, and other supplies that would arrive by truck. Mitigation Measure NOI-2 will require La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-11 August 2016 5.10 NOISE that all truck deliveries within the Village be limited to daylight hours. These measures will reduce noise impacts from non-residential development to less than significant levels. Construction Noise Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan is expected to increase the amount of construction related noises associated with proposed new development and redevelopment. The Build -out Plan includes development of an additional 1,230 dwelling units, and up to an additional 799,786 square feet of non-residential land use. Increased construction noise has the potential to periodically increase ambient noise levels in excess of noise standards set by the City's Noise Ordinance. The Municipal Code establishes base ambient noise level limits based on the time of day, as shown in Table 5.10-2. In addition, construction activity is limited during established days and hours to reduce disruption on surrounding land uses. Future construction within the Village Build -out Plan project area will be required to follow these standards, and as a result, will have a less than significant impact. b. Generation of ground -borne vibration levels in excess of established standards New development throughout the project area will require grading, trenching and other activities that may produce increased ground -borne vibration and noise. Construction noise is generally short term and may be mitigated to acceptable levels by a variety of measures, including equipping construction equipment with mufflers, locating stationary equipment away from noise sensitive receptors and placing equipment staging areas as far from sensitive receptors as is practicable. In addition, construction activity is required to abide by noise standards set by the Noise Ordinance. More specifically, according to the City of La Quinta Municipal Code Section 9.100.220.F, no use except a temporary construction operation shall be permitted which generates inherent and recurrent ground vibration perceptible, without instruments, at the boundary of the lot on which the use is located. Project -specific mitigation for groundborne vibration will be outlined in noise studies required by Mitigation Measure NOI-1. Mitigation for each project will cumulatively assist in reducing noise impacts due to groundborne vibration within the project area to less than significant. Groundborne vibration may affect sensitive receptors due to an increase in large vehicle traffic, like buses and trucks. There are no designated truck routes near the project area, but commercial properties may receive deliveries from large trucks. With implementation of Mitigation Measure NOI-2, impacts due to groundborne vibration from large trucks will be less than significant. There are existing bus routes near the project area, which were included in the noise analysis for the General Plan. New routes may develop, especially to aide in reducing the reliance on vehicles in the project area. If a new route is proposed within the Build -out Plan area, the City will be required to evaluate noise impacts and implement any necessary mitigation in order to reduce impacts to less than significant levels. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-12 August 2016 5.10 NOISE e. Excessive noise levels due to airport The Village Build -out Plan project area is not located within the airport land use plans for either the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport or the Bermuda Dunes Airport. Therefore, there would be no impacts associated with proximity to an airport. f. Excessive noise levels due to air strip There are no private airstrips in the area. Therefore, there would be no impacts associated with proximity to a private air strip. 5.10.5 Mitigation Measures N0I-1 Based on a project's proximity to sensitive receptors, City Staff will determine if a Noise Impact Analysis is needed on a project -by -project basis during their review of project applications. If required, the study shall analyze noise levels within the proposed project, and include mitigation measures to assure that the modeled interior and exterior noise levels meet the City's standards. N0I-2 Truck deliveries to businesses in the project area that are adjacent to sensitive land uses shall be limited to daylight hours. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting A. The Planning Division is responsible for reviewing each project the is proposed within the Build -out Plan project area to determine whether a noise impact analysis is necessary, based on land use type and proximity to sensitive receptors. Responsible Parties: Planning Division. B. The city building official shall have the responsibility and authority to enforce the provisions of Section 6.08.050 of the Municipal Code during project construction. Responsible Parties: Building Official 5.10.6 Level of Significance After Mitigation With the implementation of Mitigation Measures NOI-1 and NOI-2, and compliance with the noise standards set forth in the General Plan and Municipal Code, noise impacts within the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area will be less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-13 August 2016 5.10 NOISE This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.10-14 August 2016 5.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING 5.11 Population and Housing 5.11.1 Introduction This section describes the existing setting regarding population and housing and the potential effects associated with implementation of the proposed Village Build -out Plan. Descriptions and analysis in this section are based on population and housing information provided by the California Department of Finance (DOF), Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), and the City of La Quinta 2035 General Plan. Sources used in the preparation are included in Chapter 9, References. 5.11.2 Existing Conditions Population Between 1990 and 2000, the City of La Quinta experienced a 111.3 percent population increase; and between 2000 and 2010, a 58.1 percent increase. The average rate of growth between 1990 and 2000 was 1,248 people per year, and from 2000 to 2010, approximately 1,423 people per year. The Department of Finance 2015 Population Report estimates a total population of 39,964 people in the City of La Quinta. The Village Build -out Plan project area is currently a small-scale commercial core with some single - and multi -family uses, in the southern portion of the City near the La Quinta Cove. The City plans to continue development in the project area and create a livable and sustainable neighborhood that is compact, interconnected, and can sustain a mix of land uses. The General Plan land use designation of Village Commercial allows for and encourages mixed-use opportunities within the project area. Existing Housing Table 5.11-1, Total Households, 2000 to 2010, shows the increase in dwelling units between 2000 and 2010. In 2000, La Quinta had 11,812 housing units. By 2010, this number had increased to 23,489 housing units. This represents a 98.9 percent increase. Table 5.11-1 Total Households, 2000 to 2010 Jurisdiction 2000 2010 # Increase % Increase County of Riverside 506,218 686,260 180,042 35.6 City of La Quinta 8,445 14,820 6,375 75.5 Source: La Quinta General Plan 2035, Table II -11. There are three basic types of housing units for which data is presented in Table 5.11-2, Total Dwelling Units by Type of Structure, 2000 to 2010: single family units, which include both detached and La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.11-1 August 2016 5.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING attached units; multifamily units, which include apartments, duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes; and mobile homes. The predominant type of dwelling unit in the City of La Quinta continues to be single family. Together, detached and attached single-family homes comprised 89.0 percent of all units in the City. The number of multi -family units in the City more than tripled from 2000 to 2010, although multi- family units only represent 10 percent of the total housing stock. Table 5.11-2 Total Dwelling Units by Type of Structure, 2000-2010 Building Type 2000 2010 Change 2000-2010 Units % of Total Units % of Total % # Single -Family 10,788 91.3 21,009 89.0 +94.7 +10,221 Multifamily 765 6.5 2,345 10.0 +206.5 +1,580 Mobile Homes 1 259 2.2 231 1.0 -10.8 -28 Total Dwelling Units 11,812 100.0 23,585 100.0 +99.7 +11,733 Source: 2035 La Quinta General Plan, 2014-2021 Housing Element, Table 11-12. As shown in Table 5.11-3, Housing Tenure and Vacancy, 2010, shows the housing by tenure in the City of La Quinta. In 2010, ownership units accounted for about 75.2 percent of occupied housing in La Quinta which is a 6.3 percent decrease from the 2000 Census. The rental occupied housing units represent 24.8 percent of the occupied housing within the City, which is a 6.3 percent increase in rental properties from the 2000 Census. Table 5.11-3 Household Tenure and Vacancy, 2010 Tenure 2010 Percentage Total Units Total Units 23,489 100.0 Occupied 14,820 63.1 Vacant 8,669 36.9 Ownership Units Total Ownership Units 12,022 100.0 Occupied 11,152 92.8 Vacant 870 7.2 Rental Units Total Rental Units 4,458 100.0 Occupied 3,668 82.3 Vacant 790 17.7 Seasonal/Other Units Total Seasonal Recreational Use 6,448 - - Rented or Sold, not occupied 141 I - Other Vacant 561 -- Source: La Quinta General Plan 2035 and the 2014-2021 Housing Element, Table 11-16. La Quinta is a popular destination for seasonal residents due to the comfortable, mild winters. The seasonal or part-time resident population is not included in the population estimates compiled by the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.11-2 August 2016 5.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING Census Bureau because people are classified according to the location of their primary residence. The State Department of Finance provides a yearly estimate of total built housing units and an estimate of the number of vacant units. In resort communities like La Quinta, the number of vacant units reflects the number of units that are not occupied year-round, as well as those that are ready for year round occupancy that have not yet been inhabited. According to the 2010 Census, the overall vacancy rate for La Quinta is 36.9 percent, while the seasonal vacancy rate is 27.5 percent. Regional Housing Assessment Needs SCAG is responsible for identifying future housing needs in each jurisdiction, including the City of La Quinta. To meet this mandate, SCAG develops the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) to establish the projected need for housing and the fair share distribution of the projected need. A local jurisdiction's "fair share" of regional housing need is the number of additional housing units that will need to be constructed to accommodate the forecast growth, to replace expected demolitions and conversion of housing units to non -housing uses, and to achieve a vacancy rate that allows for healthy functioning of the housing market. The allocation is divided into four income categories: Very Low, Low, Moderate, and Above Moderate. The allocation is further adjusted to avoid an over - concentration of lower-income households in anyone jurisdiction. Cities must also plan for the needs of extremely low-income households, which is assumed to be 50 percent of the allocation for Very Low-income units. Table 5.11-4, Regional Housing Needs Assessment, 2014-2021, shows the RHNA for the City of La Quinta. As presented in this table, the City must be able to accommodate 364 units, representing a 1.5 percent increase in the number of households in the City. Table 5.11-4 Regional Housing Needs Assessment, 2014-2021 Household Income Income as a Percent of Levels County Median RHNA Allocation Percent Very Low Less than 50% 91 25.0 Low 51%-80% 61 17.1 Moderate 81%-120% 66 18.2 Above -Moderate Over 120% 146 39.7 Total 1 364 100 Source: La Quinta General Plan 2035 and 2014-2021 Housing Element, Table 11-30. 5.11.3 Applicable Goals and Policies City of La Quinta GOAL H-1 Provide housing opportunities that meet the diverse needs of the City's existing and projected population. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.11-3 August 2016 5.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING Policy H-1.1 Identify adequate sites to accommodate a range of product types, densities, and prices to address the housing needs of all household types, lifestyles, and income levels. Policy H-1.2 Focus housing growth within existing City boundaries until it is necessary to pursue annexation or development in planning areas for affordable housing. Policy H-1.3 Direct new housing development to viable areas where essential public facilities can be provided and employment opportunities, educational facilities, and commercial support are available. rndl H-7 Assist in the creation and provision of resources to support housing for lower and moderate -income households. Policy H-2.1 Increase housing choices for lower and moderate -income households. Policy H-2.2 Support public, private, and nonprofit efforts in the development of affordable housing. Policy H-2.3 Pursue a variety of forms of private, local, state, and federal assistance to support development of affordable housing. GOAL H-3 Create a regulatory system that does not unduly constrain the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing affordable to all La Quinta residents. Policy H-3.3 Incentivize the development of affordable housing to facilitate the development of housing for the City's lower and moderate income households. Program H -3.3.b: Reduced Parking Standards - There are several potential opportunities to reduce parking standards for special types of development in La Quinta. While the City already has special parking standards for multifamily senior housing, there is potential to further reduce those requirements, particularly for lower and moderate -income senior housing. The compact, mixed-use character of the Village area may also foster opportunities for parking reductions or joint -use opportunities. Lower and moderate -income households may own fewer vehicles than above moderate -income households, and be more inclined to walk or use public transportation. Incentives such as reduced parking requirements could be offered for affordable housing developments. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.11-4 August 2016 5.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING • Objective: Study the potential impacts of adopting reduced parking requirements or shared parking standards for senior housing and housing in the Village, particularly for projects serving lower and moderate income households. • Timing: Zoning Ordinance Update 2014 • Funding Source: General Fund • Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department Program H -3.3.c: Encourage Lot Consolidation - Several small lots in the Village Commercial would have improved development potential through lot consolidation. The City will study, identify, and adopt regulatory incentives to encourage and facilitate lot consolidation. Potential incentives include fee deferral or reductions, parking requirement reduction, and relief from various other development standards that could potentially increase the cost of the project. • Objective: Identify opportunities and adopt incentives for lot consolidation in the Village Commercial zone • Timing: July 1, 2015 • Funding Source: General Fund • Responsible Agency: Design and Development Department Southern California Association of Governments Sustainable Communities Strategy SCAG provided the City of La Quinta with a letter in response to the Notice of Preparation of the Draft EIR in November 2015. Comments from SCAG were related to the projects consistency with SCAGs 2012-2035 Regional Transportation Plan -Sustainable Communities Strategy document (RTP/SCS), and how to evaluate the project. However, since then, SCAG has adopted the 2016-2040, RTP/SCS (April 2016) with an updated set of Goals and Guiding Policies. It is the April 2016 RTP/SCS that was used to evaluate the project. SB 375, the Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act of 2008, requires metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) such as SCAG to develop a Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) — an element of the RTP —to strive to reach the greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction target established for each region by the California Air Resources Board. SCAG's 2016-2040 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy is a plan for mobility, accessibility, sustainability and a high quality of life in the region. It is first and foremost, a transportation plan that integrates land use planning into its framework to improve mobility and access to transportation options in response to SB375. A natural segue from this concept is the idea that compact, walkable neighborhoods similar to that proposed in the Village Build -out Plan. The RTC/SCS was adopted in April 2016 and is available at the following web address: http://scagrtpscs.net/Documents/2016/draft/d2016RTPSCS.pdf La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.11-5 August 2016 5.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING The Goals and Guiding Policies set forth in the 2016-2040 RTP/SCS are listed here. Most of these can be adapted and implemented at the local level by the City of La Quinta such as maximizing mobility and accessibility for all people and goods. This is being achieved by the City's commitment to good roads where intersections can accommodate round -abouts instead of 4 -way stops or traffic signals where vehicles stop and idle. 2016 RTP/SCS Goals 1. Align the plan investments and policies with improving regional economic development and competitiveness. 2. Maximize mobility and accessibility for all people and goods in the region. 3. Ensure travel safety and reliability for all people and goods in the region. 4. Preserve and ensure a sustainable regional transportation system. 5. Maximize the productivity of our transportation system. 6. Protect the environment and health of our residents by improving air quality and encouraging active transportation (e.g., bicycling and walking). 7. Actively encourage and create incentives for energy efficiency, where possible. 8. Encourage land use and growth patterns that facilitate transit and active transportation. 9. Maximize the security of the regional transportation system through improved system monitoring, rapid recovery planning, and coordination with other security agencies. Note: SCAG does not yet have an agreed-upon security performance measure. 2016 RTP -SCS Guiding Policies 1. Transportation investments shall be based on SCAG's adopted regional Performance Indicators. 2. Ensuring safety, adequate maintenance and efficiency of operations on the existing multimodal transportation system should be the highest RTP/SCS priorities for any incremental funding in the region. 3. RTP/SCS land use and growth strategies in the RTP/SCS will respect local input and advance smart growth initiatives. 4. Transportation demand management (TDM) and active transportation will be focus areas, subject to Policy 1. 5. HOV gap closures that significantly increase transit and rideshare usage will be supported and encouraged, subject to Policy 1. 6. The RTP/SCS will support investments and strategies to reduce non -recurrent congestion and demand for single occupancy vehicle use, by leveraging advanced technologies. 7. The RTP/SCS will encourage transportation investments that result in cleaner air, a better environment, a more efficient transportation system and sustainable outcomes in the long run. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.11-6 August 2016 5.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING 8. Monitoring progress on all aspects of the Plan, including the timely implementation of projects, programs, and strategies, will be an important and integral component of the Plan. 5.11.4 Project Impact Analysis Thresholds of Significance The following thresholds are derived from Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, and are used to determine the level of potential effect. The significance determination is based on the recommended criteria set forth in Section 15064 of the CEQA Guidelines. Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan would have a significant effect on population and housing if it is determined that the project will: 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 number of existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere; or c. Displace substantial number of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere. There is no standard methodology set forth in CEQA to assess the population and housing impacts of a proposed project. However, CEQA Section 15064(e) does offer guidance for the assessment of socio-economic impacts: Economic and social changes resulting from a project shall not be treated as significant effects on the environment. Economic or social changes may be used, however, to determine that a physical change shall be regarded as a significant effect on the environment. Where a physical change is caused by economic or social effects of a project, the physical change may be regarded as a significant effect in the some manner as any other physical change resulting from the project. Alternatively, economic and social effects of a physical change may be used to determine that the physical change is a significant effect on the environment. If the physical change causes adverse economic or social effects on people, those adverse effects may be used as a factor in determining whether the physical change is significant. For example, if a project would cause overcrowding of a public facility and the overcrowding causes an adverse effect on people, the overcrowding would be regarded as a significant effect. Impacts on population and housing were assessed by reviewing existing and anticipated population and housing figures provided by the DOF, SCAG, and the City of La Quinta Housing Element. The La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.11-7 August 2016 5.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING proposed Build -out Plan's impacts were evaluated by determining their consistency with these estimates and projections. a. Population Growth There are two types of population growth: direct and indirect. Direct population growth occurs from the development of new residential units. Indirect population growth occurs from the creation of new employment opportunities or the removal of a barrier to growth such as adopting a Build -out Plan that would allow an increase in density in the Village. The Village Build -out Plan has the potential to induce both direct and indirect population growth within the project area by identifying 50.9 acres of residential development that could result in up to 1,230 new residential units (multi -family), and approximately 799,786 additional square feet of commercial, totaling 960,711 square feet of commercial space at build -out. Using the City of La Quinta's 2015 average household size of 2.60, the Build -out Plan would have the potential to add an estimated 3,198 new residents to the City's population through the development of new dwelling units. This represents approximately 5.5 percent of the build -out population within City limits anticipated by the 2035 General Plan. However, like the City itself, a number of the new residential units would likely be owned or otherwise occupied by seasonal residents, rather than permanent residents so the population growth associated with the Village Build -out Plan would be less than estimated. The Village Build -out Plan will provide a sustainable, downtown village community with mixed-use residential/commercial properties. The proposed housing within the project area would primarily consist of high density multi -family dwelling units either built above commercial/retail development or adjacent to it. According to SCAG's draft 2016 Growth Forecast, it is projected that by 2035 La Quinta's permanent population will be 46,297 people, with 17,948 occupied dwelling units within the City. The projections assume an annual growth rate of approximately 0.85 percent and do not account for seasonal, recreational, and occasional occupancy. Population projections used for the 2035 La Quinta General Plan are about twenty percent higher than the SCAG forecast to account for the high rate of seasonal/occasional residential occupancy. Therefore, for the purposes of this analysis, the General Plan projections were used to estimate a 2035 population of 57,969 in the City and with an additional 22,912 dwelling units added. Assuming the La Quinta Village is built -out by 2035, the area will include 5.4 percent of the City's projected dwelling units and 5.5 percent of the City's projected population. Anticipated population growth within the Village is consistent with 2035 General Plan goals and policies. Currently, 88.1 percent of the housing in the City of La Quinta consists of single-family dwelling units. Mixed-use development, as a permitted land use under the Village Commercial designation, would support General Plan Goal H-1 by creating new multi -family dwelling units within the City, diversifying housing opportunities. The multi -family dwelling units anticipated to be developed within the project area would also assist in focusing high density residential development La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.11-8 August 2016 5.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING to the project area, thereby decreasing an otherwise outward spread of urban sprawl to the City's Planning Area and Sphere. Also, the location of the project area offers future residents close access to public facilities, parks, and commercial development. The development of new multi -family housing within the project area is consistent with General Plan Goal H-2 accommodate residents of multiple income categories, which would include: low income, moderate income, market -level, and senior housing. As discussed in the La Quinta General Plan EIR, the City's build out population under the 2035 General Plan is reduced compared to the 2002 General Plan. Although the 2035 General Plan has the potential to increase population and housing development within city limits, it, along with the Village Build -out Plan are not expected to result in significant growth inducing impacts. However, this is considered to be a less than significant impact as the project area is an existing underdeveloped City core that benefits from existing utility infrastructure, public services such as the Civic Center, Community Park, Museum, and Library, and a thriving commercial area. Drawing additional residential and non- residential uses to the project area would meet the City's goals to provide housing opportunities that meet the diverse needs of the City's existing and projected population (Goal H-1); identify adequate sites to accommodate a range of product types, densities, and prices to address the housing needs of all household types, lifestyles, and income levels (Policy H-1.1); focus housing growth within existing City boundaries until it is necessary to pursue annexation or development in planning areas for affordable housing (Policy H.1-2); and direct new housing development to viable areas where essential public facilities can be provided and employment opportunities, educational facilities, and commercial support are available (Policy H-1.3). Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan would also provide flexibility in meeting the City's intent to facilitate the creation and provision of resources to support housing for lower and moderate - income households (GOAL H-2), by increasing housing choices for lower and moderate -income households (Policy H-2.1); supporting public, private, and nonprofit efforts in the development of affordable housing (Policy H-2.2); and pursuing a variety of forms of private, local, State, and federal assistance to support development of affordable housing (Policy H-2.3). Finally, with regard to General Plan Goal H-3 to create a regulatory system that does not unduly constrain the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing affordable to all La Quinta residents, the City has identified programs to encourage achievement of this goal through the consideration of reduced parking standards for special types of development in the City, especially in the Village (Program H -3.3.b); and encourage lot consolidation with the project area to improve the development potential of lots in the project area (Program H -3.3.c). Reduced parking standards and the development of parking management strategies are discussed further in Section 5.9, Land Use. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.11-9 August 2016 5.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING SCAG's RTP/SCS The RTP/SCS considers new patterns of development as the regional economy continues to recover and grow, the composition of our population changes, the housing market responds to evolving needs, and demands and mobility innovations emerge. The Plan also includes a long-term strategic vision for the region that will help guide decisions for transportation and how we use land, as well as the public investments in both, through 2040. According to the RTP/SCS (page 50), planning for the future includes facing challenges, including the convergence of interests between two distinct population groups—millennials, who today range in age from 20 to 35, and aging baby boomers, who range in age from 51 to 70. Millennials represent 22.4 percent of the region's total population and rely less on automobiles than have previous generations; they are less apt to acquire driver's licenses, drive fewer miles and conduct fewer overall trips. SCAG's research also shows that millennials often prefer to live in denser, mixed-use urban areas well served by transit, rather than decentralized suburban areas. This trend has resulted in an increasing demand for new multifamily housing. Millennials also are more likely than other groups to embrace a range of mobility options, including shared cars, biking, transit and walking. These evolving preferences for transportation and housing are significant because Millennials will account for a large part of Southern California's overall population in 2040. In the near term, their housing and transportation preferences, when combined with the needs of baby boomers to maintain their independence, and who are also downsizing and looking for housing options, could significantly change how Southern California develops. The proposed Village Build -out Plan is right in line with the intent of the RTP/SCS goals and guiding policies regarding the creation of opportunities to increase densities of both residential and non- residential uses, to accommodate millennials seeking denser, mixed use urban areas and baby boomers downsizing and looking for opportunities to remain independent as they age by reducing the need to drive for goods and services. b. Displace existing housing The Village Build -out Plan does not include the demolition or conversion of existing residential dwelling units to non-residential uses. New development will be held to the vacant lots or underutilized properties dispersed throughout the project area. The Build -out Plan aims to increase housing density in the area to support a walkable community with close access to retail and entertainment. The Build -out Plan will have no impact on existing housing in the Village. C. Displace existing population The La Quinta Village Build -out Plan does not include the displacement of any residents within the project area. The goal of the plan is to utilize vacant lots and redevelop underutilized areas to increase La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.11-10 August 2016 5.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING housing, retail, commercial, and open space in the Village. There will be no impact to the current population in the Village, and the population will increase as vacant properties are developed over time. 5.11.5 Cumulative Impacts Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will not create cumulative impacts in regard to population and housing. Although having the potential to induce population growth, the project's adherence to goals, policies and programs as identified in the Goals and Policies section above, will provide sufficient housing to accommodate expanded growth within the Village and will assist in minimizing cumulative impacts to population and housing generally associated with new development as the project area is within the City's existing Village Commercial District that is already developed with a mix of residential and non-residential land uses. Therefore, the proposed Village Build -out Plan would not contribute to a cumulative impact on housing and population. With regard to SCAG's Regional Transportation Plan -Sustainable Communities Strategies, the successful implementation of the Village Build -out Plan would be in line with many of the goals and guiding policies, by creating a neighborhood of residential and non-residential uses where residents can live, work and play without getting into a motor vehicle, and where visitors can park and walk or bike through the Village. The SCAG goals that can be applied to the Village Build -out Plan are repeated here but revised to specifically show how the Village Build -out Plan addresses them. Some goals are truly regional and do not translate at the local level, and these have not been repeated here. RTP/SCS Goals 2. Maximize mobility and accessibility for all people and goods in the City. The City can achieve this goal with the Village Build -out Plan by having flexible zoning districts where a mix of uses are allowed either by right or by Conditional Use Permit (CUP), and by making road improvements to increase pedestrian/bicycle access and safety, and by replacing intersection stop controls with roundabouts that allow the continuous flow of traffic. 3. Ensure travel safety and reliability for all people and goods in the City. By making the road improvements identified in this EIR, this goal can be achieved in the Village. (see Exhibit 3-8 in Chapter 3, Project Description, and evaluated in Section 5.14, Traffic and Circulation). 6. Protect the environment and health of our residents by improving air quality and encouraging active transportation (e.g., bicycling and walking). (see explanation in the previous bullet) 7. Actively encourage and create incentives for energy efficiency, where possible. This is achieved through the City's commitment to reducing energy usage through implementation of mitigation measures in Section 5.2, Air Quality that include the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.11-11 August 2016 5.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING requirement that development projects exceed the energy standards set forth in the California Building Code Energy Efficiency Standards, require low -flow water fixtures in all new projects, and require installation of ENERGY STAR compliant appliances. 8. Encourage land use and growth patterns that facilitate transit and active transportation. The intent of the Village Build -out Plan is to encourage such growth in the City's traditional downtown core — the Village, in order to create a sustainable community where residents and visitors do not have to depend on motor vehicles as transportation; where pedestrian and bicycle improvements are being made that allow the safe travel paths throughout the Village, and where SunLine can increase its presence in the area as demand to visit the Village grows. RTC/SCS Guiding Policies 3. RTP/SCS land use and growth strategies in the RTP/SCS will respect local input and advance smart growth initiatives. SCAG encourages cities to adopt local strategies for meeting the intent of SB 375 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By implementing the Village Build -out Plan, the City of La Quinta intends to reduce dependence on motor vehicles, and require energy efficient residential and non-residential uses to be developed, thus reducing these emissions. 4. Transportation demand management (TDM) and active transportation will be focus areas, subject to SCAG's adopted regional performance indicators. Locally, the City of La Quinta is adopting TDM and active transportation strategies (see discussion in Chapter 3, Project Description, beginning on page 3-23, and also in Section 5.14, Traffic and Circulation, beginning on page 5.14-77). 7. The RTP/SCS will encourage transportation investments that result in cleaner air, a better environment, a more efficient transportation system and sustainable outcomes in the long run. The Village Build -out Plan is consistent with these guiding policies by creating safe pedestrian and cycling infrastructure (new sidewalks and bike lanes), allowing electric vehicles (golf carts) to also use the bike lanes, and increasing the number of roundabouts in the Village to eliminate 4 -way stop controlled intersection (either stop signs or traffic signals). It is the City's intent to maximize the use of roundabouts, bike lanes, and enhanced sidewalks (wider) to reduce vehicle trips and thus reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 5.11.6 Mitigation Measures No mitigation measures will be required as a result of project implementation as the Village Build -out Plan will create new housing opportunities as well as opportunities for millennials and baby boomers to live in an urban area where they do not need to depend on motor vehicles to access goods and services, and there are places to work and play. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.11-12 August 2016 5.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting A. No mitigation measures have been identified 5.11.7 Level of Significance after Mitigation Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will meet the City's General Plan goals by providing a balanced and varied economic base while also providing housing for a variety of people with varying needs. The project would not displace existing residences or residents, and will create an additional 1,230 new residences in a sustainable mixed use neighborhood. Therefore, there would be no significant impact to Population and Housing. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.11-13 August 2016 5.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.11-14 August 2016 5.12 PUBLIC SERVICES 5.12 Public Services 5.12.1 Introduction Current Public Services in the La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan project area are described in this section. This section also includes a discussion of the potential constraints, risks and opportunities associated with these existing conditions. Potential impacts associated with implementation of the proposed Village Build -Out Plan are also considered, and mitigation measures set forth to reduce impacts. In order to research and assess these impacts, a variety of resources have been consulted, including personal communication with service providers and other sources. Sources for the preparation of the section are listed in Chapter 9, References. Service Providers There are a wide range of public services and facilities serving the project area. These include: • Public Schools: Desert Sands Unified School District, Coachella Valley Unified School District • Library Services: Riverside County Library System • Law Enforcement: La Quinta Police Department/Riverside County Sheriff's Department • Fire Protection: La Quinta Fire Department • Electricity: Imperial Irrigation District • Natural Gas: The Gas Company • Domestic Water: Coachella Valley Water District • Wastewater Collection/Treatment: Coachella Valley Water District • Solid Waste Management: Burrtec Waste and Recycling Services, LLC 5.12.2 Existing Conditions Fire Protection Fire protection is provided through a contract with the Riverside County Fire Department, which serves both the City and the Sphere of Influence areas. There are three City -owned fire stations, each staffed with full-time paid and volunteer firefighters, and equipped as listed below: Fire Station No. 32 at 78-111 Avenue 52; equipment includes a primary and reserve fire engines, and volunteer squad and rescue vehicles. This station is located adjacent to the south end of the project area at the southwest corner of Avenue 52 and Desert Club Drive. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.12-1 August 2016 5.12 PUBLIC SERVICES Fire Station No. 70 at 54-001 Madison Street; equipped with a primary engine, a brush fire engine, and a volunteer squad vehicle. This station is located approximately 3.14 miles southeast of the project area at the southwest corner of Avenue 54 and Madison Street. Fire Station No.93 at 44-555 Adams Street; equipped with a primary engine and a reserve engine. This station is located approximately 3.32 miles north of the project area. Emergency response to the City is also available through Riverside County Fire Department stations in other cities. These include Station No. 55, located in Indian Wells; Station No. 88, in Indio; and Station No. 39, located at the Jacqueline Cochran Airport, east of the City's eastern Sphere of Influence. County Fire dispatches all calls through its centralized Emergency Command Center, where responding stations are determined based on location and need. Average Fire Department response times are between 5 and 7 minutes. La Quinta has an Insurance Service Office (ISO) rate of 4, based on a scale of 1 through 10, with 1 being the highest rating. Ratings are reviewed periodically. A variety of criteria are used to determine the ISO rating, such as staffing levels, response times, safety history and building code standards. The County Fire Department cites thresholds established in its 1986 Master Plan, which call for one new fire station per every 2,000 dwelling units or 3.5 million square feet of commercial development. The Fire Department has developed a Strategic Plan to update thresholds and plan for staffing, facilities and services through 2029. Goals and strategies include developing a "standard of cover" analysis to establish appropriate staffing levels to meet operational needs within the various jurisdictions the Department serves. Emergency Medical Response The Fire Department responds to emergency medical incidents and provides Basic and Advanced Life Support via its paramedic assessment engines. The County contracts for the provision of ambulance transportation services across the region, including the City, via exclusive operation areas. Currently, American Medical Response (AMR) is the awarded contractor. AMR is a private company, which operates a fleet of ambulances serving the City and region. AMR is connected to the County's dispatch system and responds in conjunction with Fire Department personnel. Police Protection The City contracts annually with the County of Riverside for police staffing. In 2010-2011, the City's contract provided for the equivalent of 51 sworn officers and 5 community service officers. City - assigned officers conduct investigations, manage traffic control, and provide general patrol duties. Patrol division staff is augmented by a Special Enforcement Team, which provides investigative services and support for prevention activities in the community. Community programs include the School Resource Officer program at local schools; the Junior Cadet program; a Crime Stoppers La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.12-2 August 2016 5.12 PUBLIC SERVICES program; the volunteer Citizens on Patrol Program; and Community Service Officers. The latter, which are assigned to each division, serve as community liaisons and are responsible for coordinating Community Programs such as Neighborhood Watch. There are two Police Department offices in the City: the Civic Center Community Policing Office located at 78-495 Calle Tampico and the La Quinta Police Station, which is operated by the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, located at 86-625 Airport Boulevard. The City's 2015 contract with the Sheriff's Department provides for the equivalent of 51 sworn officers and 5 community service officers. The Riverside County Sheriff's Department maintains a staffing level of one staff per 1,000 population. The City has no established staffing ratio, and police staffing in La Quinta is based on the safety needs of the local community and the available resources to provide these safety needs. Based on the City's 2010 full occupancy population of 59,247, the current level of police staffing is approximately 1.06 staff per 1,000 population. Schools (Desert Sands Unified School District) There are two school districts providing public education to students in kindergarten through 12th grade in La Quinta: Desert Sands Unified School District (DSUSD) and Coachella Valley Unified School District (CVUSD). DSUSD will provide school services to the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan area and is discussed below. The project area will be served by DSUSD which operates 19 elementary schools, eight middle schools, and seven high schools. Table 5.12-1 Desert Sands Unified School District Enrollment and Capacity School Type 2013/14 Capacity 2013/14 Enrollment Existing Capacity Surplus/(Deficit) Elementary School (Grades K-5) 13,730 12,940 790 Middle School (Grades 6-8) 7,530 6,802 728 High School (Grades 9-12) 10,291 9,520 771 otal 31,551 29,262 2,289 Source: Desert Sands Unified School District, Fee Justification Report Table ll, 2014. Although the District as a whole still has capacity for new students, current enrollment at the La Quinta High School exceeds design capacity. DSUSD utilizes portable classrooms to accommodate over -capacity student enrollment at its schools until enrollment warrants construction of new school facilities. DSUSD's newest high school is the Shadow Hills High School located in the City of Indio, north of the 1-10 freeway at the southwest corner of Jefferson Street and Avenue 39. Shadow Hills is expected to gradually absorb some of the excess student population currently served by La Quinta High School. In 2014, Shadow Hills had an enrollment level between 900 and 1,000 students. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.12-3 August 2016 5.12 PUBLIC SERVICES In general, DSUSD student populations have remained stable or declined slightly as a result of recession -related impacts on local development. DSUSD staff has indicated it expects that no new school facilities will be required in the short term (2 to 4 years). However, they continue to plan for expansion. Although there are few if any sites available for new DSUSD school facilities within La Quinta, DSUSD has identified future school site properties near the Shadow Hills campus in the City of Indio and also in the City of Coachella. DSUSD recently announced the closure of John Adams Elementary School located adjacent to the northerly boundary of the project area. However, the school will remain a DSUSD property as it was recently announced that the school would be used for pre -kindergarten children. DSUSD also provides adult education programs, such as GED test preparation, citizenship classes and English as a Second Language. DSUSD also offers early childhood education, special education services, and after-school programs. DSUSD's Alternative school provides independent learning and home schooling support for students in grades kindergarten through 12th grade. School Funding There are a variety of funding sources for school districts, including a portion of local property taxes as well as State funds. In addition, State Assembly Bill 2926 (AB 2926), enacted in 1986 authorizes school districts to levy an impact fee on developers. These fees may be used to construct new facilities. They are updated periodically and currently (July 2016) DSUSD fees are $3.36 per square foot of new residential development and $0.56 per square foot of commercial development. Higher Education Institutions There are three regional higher education institutions in the Coachella Valley. They include the College of the Desert, a community college with Associates degree programs and adult education, with multiple campuses, including the main campus in Palm Desert. Bachelor's and Master's degree programs are offered through California State University, San Bernardino ( Palm Desert campus) and University of California, Riverside (Palm Desert campus). Parks See Section 5-15, Recreation. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.12-4 August 2016 5.12 PUBLIC SERVICES Public Facilities Libraries The La Quinta Library is located at 78-275 Calle Tampico and within the Village Build -out Plan. The City owns the library facility, which is operated by Riverside County. According to the City's General Plan, the Library contains 89,060 volumes within a 20,000 square foot space. Although the City has not established a standard for library facilities, the County Library system aims for an un -adopted standard of two volumes per capita. Based on this standard, existing library facilities are sufficient to serve the current population. 5.12.3 Applicable Goals and Policies rnnl FS -1 An effective and comprehensive response to all emergency service needs. Policy ES -1.2 New development proposals shall continue to be routed to the Fire Department to assure that project access and design provide for maximum fire and life safety. Policy ES -1.6 New development proposals shall continue to be routed to the Police Department to assure that project access and design provide for defensible space and maximum crime prevention while maintaining City design standards and codes. Policy ES -1.10 The city should provide education programs and literature to its residents, business people and property owners on earthquake preparedness, fire safety, flooding hazards and other emergencies. Program ES -1.10a: Maintain and distribute emergency preparedness information and handouts at City Hall, the Senior Center and Library, and at community events. Additionally, the City's website and other media resources shall be utilized to inform and educate residents and business owners on emergency preparedness matters. 5.12.4 Project Impacts Thresholds of Significance The following standards and criteria have been drawn from Appendix G Environmental Checklist Form of the CEQA Guidelines to assess the significance of potential impacts to public services and facilities that may result from the adoption and implementation of the La Quinta Village Build -out La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.12-5 August 2016 5.12 PUBLIC SERVICES Plan. Impacts would be considered significant if implementation of the Plan would result in the following: a. Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, or create a 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 time or other performance objectives for fire protection, police protection, schools, parks, and other public facilities. a. Impacts to Fire Protection Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan and the increase in population in the overall General Plan Planning Area is expected to result in an increase in demand for fire protection services. Additional equipment, vehicles and staff may be needed as the project area develops with increased density of uses. Equipment and staffing needs will be determined as the project area develops. Upgrades to existing utilities, particularly water mains and installation of new hydrants may also be required as currently undeveloped or less developed properties are developed. The potential cost to the City may be substantial, and on-going monitoring and evaluation of the need for additional facilities and staff may be necessary throughout development of the project area. The County Fire Department evaluates specific development proposals based on their potential to demand additional fire department facilities, equipment and staffing. It considers existing conditions in the project area as well as future needs of such new development in determining whether it is appropriate to require new fire facilities based on the standards set forth in the 1986 Master Plan, as cited above. Implementation of Mitigation Measures PS -1 and PS -2 will ensure that as the project area builds out, new "standards of cover" developed in association with the Department's Strategic Plan will be applied to new development. Future development will continue to be subject to Fire Department review and new fire facilities will be considered as needed to ensure adequate provision of fire protection services in the project area. The City of La Quinta has established Development Impact Fees (DIF) for land use types. For residential uses, the DIF for Fire Protection is $206 per multi -family dwelling unit. The 1,203 proposed dwelling units in the Village Build -out Plan project area would all be condominiums or apartments. For non-residential uses, the DIF is $172 for General Commercial, $162 for Tourist Commercial, and $171 for Office Space. Therefore, with payment of the DIF for each land use type developed, and the implementation of mitigation measures impacts on fire service would be less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.12-6 August 2016 5.12 PUBLIC SERVICES b. Impacts to Police Protection At build out the City, including its Sphere of Influence, is expected to have a total population of 134,352. The project area itself is expected to add an additional 3,198 new residents. Based on the Riverside County staffing ratio, the police department will require 134 sworn officers at City build out. This is an increase of 78 sworn officers as compared with current staffing levels, which represents a substantial additional demand for police protection and associated equipment and patrol vehicles. For the Village Build -out Plan, the number of new sworn officers for the 3,198 new residents would be 3.2 based on a ratio of 1 officer per 1,000 population. Demand for police protection in the Village will depend on actual development in the future. Implementation of Mitigation Measures PS -3 and PS -4 will ensure that as new development is proposed within the Village Build -out Plan project area, the Police Department would review projects and City will continue to monitor population growth and staffing levels to assure that the Police Department can provide adequate police protection in the project area. Therefore, implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will not have a significant effect on Police Services. c. Impacts on Schools New development in the project area will occur over time, and student populations are also expected to increase gradually. DSUSD facilities planners look for new school sites or ways to increase the efficiency of existing school sites to accommodate additional students as the population increases. A total of 15,461 dwelling units is anticipated to be developed in the DSUSD boundary by 2035, including new residential construction in the City of La Quinta. According to the DSUSD Fee Justification Report (2014), 15,156 unmitigated dwelling units are anticipated to be developed, creating a need for new school facilities. The proposed 1,230 dwelling units proposed in the project area are likely to be in addition to this number, as the City is proposing to increase the density of residential use in the project area. Table 5.12-3, School Facilities for Projected Students from New Development, shows the number of schools that DSUSD anticipates to be necessary with increased population and residential development. Table 5.12-2 School Facilities for Projected Students from New Development School Type Student Generation Rate Existing School Capacity Adjusted Future Students' School Facility Capacity Total Facilities Elementary 0.1776 790 1,890 858 2.20 Middle 0.0934 728 692 1,200 0.58 High School 0.1307 771 1,208 2,000 0.60 Source: Desert Sands Unified School District, Fee Justification Report 2014. Notes: 1. Number of students generated from unmitigated new dwelling units has been reduced by the existing school capacity in the report. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.12-7 August 2016 5.12 PUBLIC SERVICES DSUSD will continue to receive developer's impacts fees for residential, commercial and industrial development, including fees from new development in the project area. Currently (July 2016), DSUSD fees are $3.36 per square foot for new residential development and $0.56 per square foot for commercial development. However, some schools are currently operating at or beyond capacity, and new facilities will be needed to serve the build out student population for the entire City including the project area, even though currently DSUSD intends to close John Adam Elementary School and utilize it as a pre-school, or other related school use. The reuse of this elementary school is a temporary use. Mitigation Measure PS -5 is set forth below to ensure that any potential adverse effects to public schools are reduced to less than significant levels. Ultimate build -out in the project area would create 1,230 new residential units, and 799,786 square feet of non-residential uses. For the purposes of this analysis an average dwelling unit would be 1,500 square feet. Under DSUSD's most current fee schedule, at the current student generation rate of $3.36 per square foot per dwelling unit, the project area could generate $6,199,200 for 1,230 dwelling units. At the current student generation rate of $0.56 per square foot of non- residential uses, the project at build -out could generate $447,880 for the additional 799,786 square feet. d. Impacts on parks Please refer to section 5-15, Recreation. e. Impacts on other public facilities Libraries At build out, the City and its Sphere of Influence is expected to have a total population of 134,352. The project area itself is expected to add an additional 3,198 new residents. Based on the County Library System's target standard of two volumes per capita, the estimated build out population of 79,956 in the City limits will require 268,704 volumes at build out of the General Plan, including build -out of the project area. Under this scenario, additional facilities would also likely be required to house the additional volumes and serve patrons. However, the mission of a library has been changing over the past few years as the internet has provided virtually limitless access to information, books, magazines, job information and applications, health information and online classes. Libraries are being challenged to stay relevant and continue to offer their users a reason to come in and use the facilities. They are doing this by offering free wireless access and free computer access to allow residents to search beyond the walls of the library out to other libraries, museums, government agencies, etc. for entertainment and information. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.12-8 August 2016 5.12 PUBLIC SERVICES The City assesses Developer Impact Fees (DIF) on residential development for library services and facilities. Currently, fees are assessed at $348 for multi -family units. The 1,230 new dwelling units in the Village would be condominiums or apartments. These are one-time fees assessed when new units are constructed. Based on these fees, new residential development in project area (1,230 new multi -family units) would generate $428,040 for libraries. 5.12.5 Cumulative Impacts Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will increase the demand for public services and facilities. As development occurs within the project area, the incremental and cumulative increase in population will require additional police and fire protection, school and library services, parks and recreation facilities. Public services and facilities will incur proportional increases in service demands as generated by new development in the project area. Fees collected are used to offset increased demands to public services and facilities by funding school and library expansions, roadway improvements and development of new or expanded public buildings. Increased property tax and sales tax revenue also provide additional funding for new police and fire services. Therefore, with implementation of Mitigation Measures PS -1 through PS -6 and adherence to goals, policies and programs as identified in this section, all new development within the project area will assist in minimizing cumulative impacts to public services and facilities and are expected to be less than significant. 5.12.6 Mitigations Measures Fire Impacts associated with provision of fire protection services will be reduced to less than significant levels with the implementation of the following mitigation measures: PS -1 The City and Riverside County Fire Department shall continue to confer and coordinate to ensure that facilities and services within the Village Build -out Plan are expanded in a timely manner. PS -2 The Riverside County Fire Department shall continue to review and evaluate new development proposals and project plans within the Village Build -out Plan to make certain that it can provide adequate fire protection. Police PS -3 All new development projects within the Village Build -out Plan shall be subject to Police Department review to assure that the Department can provide adequate police protection. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.12-9 August 2016 5.12 PUBLIC SERVICES PS -4 The City shall monitor City population and Police Department staffing levels to ensure the provision of police protection services at consistent levels. Schools PS -5 Development projects within the Village Build -out Plan shall be assessed statutory school mitigation fees, in place at the time residential and commercial projects are proposed. Libraries PS -6 Development projects within the Village Build -out Plan shall be assessed development impact fees, in place at the time residential and commercial projects are proposed. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Law Enforcement A. On an annual basis, the City shall evaluate response times and police activity to assure adequate protection. Responsible Parties: City Manager, Police Department. Fire Department B. Riverside County Fire Department shall review all development plans prior to issuance of building permits to ensure that development complies with City and Fire Department standards. Responsible Parties: Planning Division, Riverside County Fire Department. School District C. The City shall continue to coordinate with the Coachella Valley Unified School District and Desert Sands Unified School District to assure that statuary developer impact fees are collected. Responsible Party: Planning Division. Libraries D. No mitigation required. Responsible Parties: None. 5.12.7 Level of Significance after Mitigation Implementation of mitigation measures would ensure that impacts on Public Services would be less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.12-10 August 2016 5.13 RECREATION 5.13 Recreation 5.13.1 Introduction This section describes the existing recreational facilities provided by the City of La Quinta to improve quality of life for its residents and assesses impacts on recreational resources from future growth and development brought on by the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan. 5.13.2 Environmental Setting The City of La Quinta offers a variety of passive and active recreational opportunities for residents and visitors to the region. There are approximately 5,259 acres of open space areas set aside for recreational facilities in the City. These developed open space recreational areas include a variety of city owned and maintained parks and facilities, County owned parks, Desert Recreation District facilities and public and private golf courses. The City of La Quinta offers numerous golf courses and resorts, making it a premier destination for golf. In addition, there are approximately 6,933 acres of natural open space areas within the City offering hiking trails, equestrian trails, and other passive recreation opportunities. The City also operates and maintains the La Quinta Wellness Center and La Quinta Museum which are located within the Village Build -out Plan project area. The La Quinta Wellness Center is located where the former Senior Center, near the Civic Center. It was renovated and expanded in late -2014 with improvements to promote wellness for the whole community. The 10,000+ square -foot La Quinta Wellness Center has a fitness center, various wellness classes, a gardening area, special events, and weekly programs for all ages. The La Quinta Museum provides local residents with cultural activities, including art exhibits, programs, and events. The Desert Recreation District provides park facilities and recreation programs throughout the Coachella Valley. Once known as the Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District, the Desert Recreation District owns and operates the La Quinta Community Park, and is proposing a Discovery Center near Lake Cahuilla. The La Quinta Community Park is located within the Village Build -out Plan at 77865 Avenida Montezuma, and includes a 6.5 -acre park and 5,000 square foot La Quinta Community Fitness Center. The 6.5 -acre park includes ball fields, basketball courts, playground, picnic tables, barbecues, restrooms, an outdoor amphitheater, outdoor exercise facilities, and drinking fountains. The La Quinta Community Fitness Center includes fitness equipment, a kitchen, and concessions. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.13-1 August 2016 5.13 RECREATION Regulatory Setting Quimby Act California passed the Quimby Act in 1975, allowing local governments to pass ordinances requiring developers to set aside land, donate conservation easements, or pay in -lieu of fees for the development of new parks and recreational facilities. Local governments have come to depend on the Quimby Act for new facilities, or to upgrade existing facilities, as a result of new growth and development. La Quinta Municipal Code Section 13.48 establishes criteria for dedicating land, or payment of in lieu fees for construction of new parks or recreational facilities or rehabilitation of existing facilities. The ordinance states that residential subdivisions, containing less than five parcels, and nonresidential subdivisions, are exempt from dedication or park fees. All other residential developments are required to pay a park development fee, dedicate land, or both. Section 13.48.050 states that parkland dedication requirements shall equal three acres of parkland per one thousand people in a new subdivision. The number of people in a new subdivision is determined by multiplying the number of dwelling units in the subdivision by the average household size. Average household size is based on the latest U.S. Census information. Residential development, as a permitted land use of the Village Commercial designation, would be subject to Quimby fees. Parks Planning and Implementation Tools La Quinta's Community Services Master Plan serves as an important tool for short to mid-term parks and recreation planning and decision making. The five-year plan monitors and surveys public needs and current service levels, and in turn provides service recommendations for implementation. The plan includes a community needs survey, details an inventory of existing services and facilities, and presents a comparison to standardized state and national benchmarks. Healthy Eating Active Living Campaign On February 16, 2010, the La Quinta City Council passed Resolution 2010-013, declaring a commitment to improve and encourage community health and wellness through the Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) Campaign sponsored by the California Center for Public Health Advocacy. This commitment includes the promotion of policies to help shape the built environment so that it encourages walking, biking, hiking and other forms of physical activity and provides pedestrian connectivity between parks, schools, retail businesses and residential areas. This initiative also includes supporting access to health and fitness facilities such as the La Quinta Fitness Center, promoting healthy eating through farmers markets and community gardening, and encouraging higher nutrition standards at public concessions. La Quinta Village Build -out area EIR 5.13-2 August 2016 5.13 RECREATION 5.13.3 Applicable Goals and Policies (;nd► PR -1 A comprehensive system of parks, and recreation facilities and services that meet the active and passive needs of all residents and visitors. Policy PR -1.2 Continue to provide a minimum standard of 5 acres of parkland for every 1,000 residents. Program PR -1.2.a: Annually review parks and recreational facilities as part of the City's long- range planning. Policy PR -1.6 Encourage patterns of development that promote safe pedestrian and bicycle access to schools, public parks, and recreational areas. Policy PR -1.7 Identify opportunities to integrate public health concerns into parks and trails planning. Policy PR -1.8 Promote a healthy and active lifestyle for all residents. Program PR -1.8.a: Strive to provide residents with affordable access to fitness facilities such as the public pool, fitness center, and golf course. Program PR -1.8.b: Promote the consumption of healthy foods by encouraging healthful foods to be sold at concessions in all public buildings and parks. Program PR -1.8.c: Promote and improve public access to farmers markets and grocery stores that sell fresh produce and healthy foods. 5.13.4 Impact Analysis Thresholds of Significance The thresholds derived from Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines are used to determine the level of potential effect. The Build -out Plan would have a significant effect on recreation if it is determined that the project will: a. Would 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. Include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities, which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment. La Quinta Village Build -out area EIR 5.13-3 August 2016 5.13 RECREATION a. Impacts on Parks and Facilities The Village Build -out Plan would facilitate new development and would result in approximately 1,230 new residential units and a total added population of 3,198 new residents based on a ratio of 2.6 persons per dwelling unit. However, it is likely that, given the number of seasonal residents that currently reside in the City only a few months out of the year, not all new residents within the project area would utilize the local recreational facilities or other parks within the City. Nonetheless, for purposes of this analysis, it is assumed that added residents would utilize these facilities, resulting in an increase in facility upkeep and maintenance due to increased usage load from various activities (i.e., ball games, outdoor concerts, art and car shows, etc.). In comparison to the Village Build -out Plan, the total number of dwelling units upon build -out of the General Plan will be approximately 31,603 units, with 21,500 of those within the Sphere of Influence. Total build out population is expected to be 79,956 in the City Limits and 54,396 within the Sphere of Influence, for a grand total of 134,352 throughout the General Plan Planning Area. Thus, the potential 3,198 new residents represent an insignificant fraction of the total future population. The General Plan requires the provision of 5 acres of parkland set aside for each 1,000 population. Based on this standard, a population of 3,198 at build out of the Village would require a total of 15 acres of parkland. In order to ensure funding is acquired for future purchases of land, all new development and redevelopment projects will be required to pay development impact fees directed towards the preservation, expansion and maintenance of the City's recreational parks and facilities, and contribute to new parkland acquisition in accordance with the Quimby Act. This process will assure that new park expansion is funded and assist in maintaining consistency with Policy PR -1.2. Existing recreational facilities within the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area would continue to be maintained and supplemented through development impact fees set forth by the City of La Quinta. The City of La Quinta has established Development Impact Fees (DIF) for Parks/Recreation and Park Maintenance Facilities that apply to residential projects only. The 1,230 proposed dwelling units in the Village would all be condominiums or apartments. The DIF for Parks/Recreation is currently $2,048 per multi -family dwelling unit and the DIF for Park Maintenance Facilities is currently $40 per multi -family dwelling unit. New residential development and redevelopment projects would be required to pay the most up-to-date development impact fees at the time of project development, and thus would safeguard funding for maintenance and improvements to existing parks within the City. Therefore, with payment of Quimby Act Fees and City DIF, impacts in regard to parks and recreation facilities as a result of implementation of the Village Build -out Plan would be less than significant. b. Impacts on the environment due to parks and facilities The project area would result in an increase in residents, expanding retail opportunities within mix - use areas of the Village would have a positive impact as it would strengthen and maintain events and La Quinta Village Build -out area EIR 5.13-4 August 2016 5.13 RECREATION activities promoted under the HEAL Cities Campaign in 2010 which helps City officials to adopt policies that promote healthy environments and physical activity within their community. The campaign was adopted to meet General Plan Policy PR -1.8, promote a healthy and active lifestyle for all residents. By maintaining consistency with Policy PR -1.8, HEAL would assist in encouraging residents and visitors to participate in walking, biking and sports -related activities, and attract local revenue to the project. A number of programs and activities could be implemented into the Build- out Plan with the promoting and expanding of the HEAL program, including the continued promotion of farmers' markets, creation of a community garden, promoting recreational activity and providing safe routes to school. The La Quinta Wellness Center is located within the Village Build -out Plan project area where the former Senior Center was located near the Civic Center. It was renovated and expanded in late -2014 with improvements to promote wellness for the whole community. The 10,000+ square - foot La Quinta Wellness Center has a fitness center, various wellness classes, a gardening area, special events, and weekly programs for all ages. The recent expansion of the Wellness Center provides additional recreational resources to existing and future residents of the Village and reduces the need for new recreational facilities in the vicinity. Therefore, implementation of the project will not have a negative impact on the environment due the construction of new parks and facilities. 5.13.5 Cumulative Impacts Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will not create cumulative impacts to recreational resources. As discussed above, all new development will be required to contribute applicable development impact fees and Quimby fees towards the preservation, expansion and maintenance of the City's recreational parks and facilities. Therefore, with adherence to goals, policies and programs as identified in this Section, all new development within the Village Build -out Plan will assist in minimizing cumulative impacts in regard to recreation and are expected to be less than significant. 5.13.6 Mitigation Measures No mitigation measures will be required as a result of project implementation. However, each project will be required to pay Quimby fees for the acquisition of additional park space. This will be determined on a project by project basis as some projects proposed on underutilized properties may not be required to pay the fee, based on what is being proposed. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting A. No mitigation measures have been identified. 5.13.7 Level of Significance after Mitigation The requirement for all development and redevelopment to pay Quimby fees and applicable DIF would support necessary acquisition, improvements, and maintenance of recreational facilities within the City of La Quinta, and impacts associated with Parks and Recreation would be less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out area EIR 5.13-5 August 2016 5.13 RECREATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out area EIR 5.13-6 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION 5.14 Traffic and Circulation 5.14.1 Introduction This section describes the existing setting regarding traffic and circulation around and throughout the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area. This section is based on the information contained in the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Traffic Impact Analysis, (TIA) prepared by Kunzman Associates, May 2016, and the 2035 La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. The TIA is included as Appendix E of this EIR. The TIA analyzed traffic impacts for existing conditions, existing plus project conditions (build -out year 2035), and an interim year of 2021, at which time approximately three years of development is assumed. The TIA also analyzed potential project traffic impacts for General Plan Build -out traffic conditions, which coincide with the anticipated build out of the proposed La Quinta Village Build -out Plan. Finally, the TIA evaluated the City's preferred Circulation Plan that includes traffic calming methods such as round -abouts and parking strategies, as well as non -motorized strategies such as enhanced sidewalks, and shared bike/golf cart lanes. 5.14.2 Environmental Setting The proposed project consists of developing a build -out plan for the Village in the City of La Quinta. The project area consists of approximately 137 acres of land generally located on both sides of Calle Tampico, north of Avenue 52, east of Eisenhower Drive, and west of Washington Street. The build- out plan includes several multi -modal enhancements to the circulation network as discussed further in this section. Exhibit 5.14-1, Project Intersections and Roadway Locations, shows the project location map and study area. The City's General Plan 2035 was adopted in 2013 and focused on the next 20+ years, through 2035. It is the City's intent to allow the Village Build -out Plan project area to continue to develop through market forces including demand for additional housing, commercial uses, and professional office space. The 20 year build -out scenario coincides with the General Plan build -out scenario. Study Area The study area is shown in Exhibit 5.14-1 and consists 16 study intersections and 22 roadway segments as shown in Table 5.14-1, Study Area Intersections, and Table 5-14-2, Study Area Roadway Segments. Intersecting streets are characterized as north -south (NS) or east -west (EW). La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14- 1 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Table 5.14-1 Study Intersections ID Intersection urisdiction 1 Eisenhower Drive (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) La Quinta 2 Eisenhower Drive (NS) at Calle Tampico (EW) La Quinta 3 Eisenhower Drive (NS) at Avenida Montezuma (EW) La Quinta 4 Eisenhower Drive (NS) at Calle Sinaloa (EW) La Quinta 5 Avenida Bermudas (NS) at Calle Tampico (EW) La Quinta 6 Avenida Bermudas (NS) at Calle Sinaloa/Avenue 52 (EW) La Quinta 7 Desert Club Drive (NS) at Calle Tampico (EW) La Quinta 8 Desert Club Drive (NS) at Avenue 52 (EW) La Quinta 9 Washington Street (NS) at Avenue 48 (EW) La Quinta 10 Washington Street (NS) at Eisenhower Drive (EW) La Quinta 11 Washington Street (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) La Quinta 12 Washington Street (NS) at Calle Tampico (EW) La Quinta 13 Washington Street (NS) at Avenida La Fonda (EW) La Quinta 14 Washington Street (NS) at Avenue 52 (EW) La Quinta 15 Jefferson Street (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) La Quinta/Indio 16 Jefferson Street (NS) at Avenue 52 (EW) La Quinta Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan TIA, Study Intersections Table, Page 2, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 2016. Table 5.14-2 Study Roadway Segments Roadway Segment Jurisdiction Eisenhower Drive North of Avenue 50 La Quinta Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico La Quinta Calle Tampico to Avenida Montezuma La Quinta Avenida Montezuma to Calle Sinaloa La Quinta Avenida Bermudas Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 La Quinta Desert Club Drive Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 La Quinta Washington Street Avenue 48 to Eisenhower Drive La Quinta Eisenhower Drive to Avenue 50 La Quinta Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico La Quinta Calle Tampico to Avenida La Fonda La Quinta Avenida La Fonda to Avenue 52 La Quinta Jefferson Street Avenue 50 to Avenue 52 La Quinta Avenue 50 Eisenhower Drive to Washington Street La Quinta Washington Street to Jefferson Street La Quinta Calle Tampico Eisenhower Drive to Avenida Bermudas La Quinta Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Drive La Quinta Desert Club Drive to Washington Street La Quinta Avenida La Fonda West of Washington Street La Quinta Calla Sinaloa Eisenhower Drive to Avenida Bermudas La Quinta Avenue 52 Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Drive La Quinta Desert Club Drive to Washington Street La Quinta Washington Street to Jefferson Street La Quinta Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan TIA, Study Intersections Table, Page 3, Kunzman Associates Inc., May, 2016. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-2 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Analysis Scenarios Based on scoping discussions with City staff, the TIA analyzes the following scenarios: 1. Existing Conditions; 2. Existing Plus Project Conditions; 3. Interim Year (2021) Without Project Conditions; 4. Interim Year (2021) With Project Conditions; 5. General Plan Build -out (Year 2035) Without Project Conditions; and 6. General Plan Build -out (Year 2035) With Project Conditions. Regulatory Setting The TIA was prepared in accordance with the Traffic Study Guidelines provided in the City of La Quinta Engineering Bulletin #06-13 (Revised December 8, 2014) and the City -approved scoping agreement contained in TIA Appendix B. Intersection Analysis Methodology Initial existing peak hour traffic volumes were determined based upon morning peak period and evening peak period intersection turning movement counts conducted in December 2015 during typical weekday conditions. Initial peak hour traffic volumes were compared to the seasonally adjusted "existing" traffic volumes contained in the TIA for the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element Update, prepared in 2012. ) The existing seasonally adjusted traffic volumes from the General Plan TIA were used for the Village Build -out TIA at locations that showed higher traffic volumes compared to the turning movement counts collected in 2015. The traffic engineer observed that the traffic volumes shown in the General Plan TIA at study intersections near the Village Build -out Plan project area were approximately 1.19 times greater in the morning peak hour and approximately 1.12 times greater in the evening peak hour. Therefore, at study intersections near the project area for which traffic volumes were not included in the General Plan TIA, the 2015 traffic counts were increased accordingly and adjusted for reasonable flow conservation between intersections. The result of this process is a highly conservative set of baseline traffic volumes which in no case are less than recently collected traffic data or less than historical traffic data from the General Plan TIA. The existing average daily traffic volumes were obtained from the 2015 Traffic Census Report prepared by the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) and from new traffic counts collected over a 24-hour period in December 2015 for the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan area. Similarly, daily traffic volumes collected in December 2015 were compared to the General Plan TIA. The only two locations in which daily traffic volumes shown in the General Plan TIA were greater were based on estimates La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-3 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-4 August 2016 1 3 4 AMMM �.'�wbrfe�'a � �'��rt="'��i_ � k #'.s 1� ►�.ak�=?�Lx� j~,j + , t e'r'r, yw . ' ;` a - y r : • i �� i+ ; } itis ., t-..-�`ti �� 1•* �# dam_ �° � 74 ;A +6_ IFF -V c3R ir' 1tq 1 Desert r �rkRr.Z Club Drive R r - �. l��SRilnri 13 Iveni La Fondat I 14 4 •3 i r a !. 1 A&-- � . ir' 1tq 1 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-6 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION derived from the peak hour counts. Since the 2015 daily traffic counts were greater at all other locations, the 2015 daily traffic counts were used for Village Build -out Plan TIA. The TIA analyzed the proposed project using the intersection delay method based on the procedures contained in the Highway Capacity Manual (Transportation Research Board, 2000). The methodology compares the volume of traffic using the intersection to the capacity of the intersection to calculate the delay associated with the traffic control at the intersection. The intersection delay is then correlated to a performance measure known as Level of Service. Definitions for levels of service (LOS) are provided in Table 5.14-6, Level of Service Intersection Control Delay. Table 5.14-3 Level of Service Intersection Control Delay Level Intersection Control Delay (Seconds / Vehicle) of Signalized Unsignalized Service Intersection Intersection A !_ 10.0 !_ 10.0 B >10.0to!_20.0 > 10.0 to!_ 15.0 C > 20.0 to !_ 35.0 > 15.0 to!_ 25.0 D > 35.0 to !_ 55.0 > 25.0 to!_ 35.0 E > 55.0 to !_ 80.0 > 35.0 to 15 50.0 F >80.0 >50.0 Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan TIA, Study Intersections Table, Page 6, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 2016. LOS is used to qualitatively describe the performance of a roadway facility, ranging from LOS A (free- flow conditions) to LOS F (extreme congestion and system failure). Per the Highway Capacity Manual, overall average intersection delay and LOS are shown for intersections with all traffic signal, all way stop, and roundabout yield controls. For intersections with cross street stop control, the delay and level of service for the worst individual movement (or movements sharing a single lane) are shown. Performance Standards The City of La Quinta has established LOS D as the minimum acceptable Level of Service for its signalized intersections and roadway segments. Therefore, any signalized intersection operating at LOS E or F will be considered deficient. For unsignalized intersections, the City of La Quinta has established a minimum acceptable LOS D at an all way stop controlled intersection and LOS E for a side street at a two-way stop controlled intersection (i.e., cross street stop). La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-7 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Existing Conditions Existing Traffic Controls & Intersection Geometry Highway 111 and the 1-10 Freeway to the north provide regional access for the City of La Quinta. North -south roadways that provide local circulation for the project area include Eisenhower Drive, Avenida Bermudas, Desert Club Drive, Washington Street, and Jefferson Street. East -west roadways that provide local circulation for the project area include Avenue 50, Calle Tampico, and Avenue 52. Exhibit 5.14-2, City of La Quinta Roadway Classifications, shows the classifications for the roads in and around the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan project area. Exhibit 5.14-3, General Plan Roadway Cross- sections, shows the roadway cross-section for each classification shown in Exhibit 5.14-2. Exhibit 5.14-2 shows the nature and extent of arterial and collector roadways that are needed to adequately serve the ultimate development designated by the Land Use Element of the General Plan. As used below, "study area" includes the area analyzed within the TIA, which extends beyond the project area. Eisenhower Drive: This north -south four lane divided roadway is classified as a Primary Arterial (108 foot right-of-way) in the study area in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries approximately 9,500 to 15,500 vehicles per day in the study area. Avenida Bermudas: This north -south two lane to four lane divided roadway is classified as a Secondary Arterial (102 foot right-of-way) in the study area in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries approximately 3,400 vehicles per day in the study area. Desert Club Drive: This north -south two lane undivided roadway is not classified in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element, and as such is a considered a local roadway. It currently carries approximately 1,900 vehicles per day in the study area. Washington Street: This north -south six lane divided roadway is classified as a Major Arterial (128 foot right-of-way) in the study area in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries approximately 12,500 to 40,500 vehicles per day in the study area. Jefferson Street: This north -south six lane divided roadway is classified as a Major Arterial (128 foot right-of-way) in the study area in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries approximately 19,500 vehicles per day in the study area. Avenue 50: This east -west three lane undivided to four lane divided roadway is classified as a Primary Arterial (108 foot right-of-way) in the study area in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries approximately 2,900 to 10,700 vehicles per day in the study area. Calle Tampico: This east -west four lane divided roadway is classified as a Primary Arterial (108 foot right-of-way) in the study area in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries approximately 4,300 to 16,600 vehicles per day in the study area. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-8 August 2016 The Altum Group General Plan Roadway Classifications La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5.14-2 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-10 August 2016 RNY 80' Collector Rrw :rT .` .A '�--�: r.y•E S� ,:'f'1-.: +: •.�'..r tom. � \r\ 102' Secondary Arterial 128' Major Arterial 84' Modified Secondary Arterial RM 1- R?W Rm 108' Primary Arterial 32' -� _�_ _, 6. 2' 8' 17' 71' 12' 11' 11' S 2' Rrw :rT .` .A '�--�: r.y•E S� ,:'f'1-.: +: •.�'..r tom. � \r\ 102' Secondary Arterial 128' Major Arterial 84' Modified Secondary Arterial RM 1- R?W Rm 108' Primary Arterial 146' State Highway 111 Source: La Quinta General Plan 2035, Figure II -3 The Altum Group 1 7 7 'o.X"gillrlllru 1v1p,Ui General Plan Roadway Cross -Sections La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report 1VW Exhibit 5.14-3 -� _�_ -- _ ,-.. _ ..___ �._._ 146' State Highway 111 Source: La Quinta General Plan 2035, Figure II -3 The Altum Group 1 7 7 'o.X"gillrlllru 1v1p,Ui General Plan Roadway Cross -Sections La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report 1VW Exhibit 5.14-3 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-12 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Avenue 52: This east -west four lane divided roadway is classified as a Primary Arterial (108 foot right- of-way) in the study area in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element. It currently carries approximately 5,800 to 15,600 vehicles per day in the study area. Existing Roadway Segment and Intersection Levels of Service Table 5.14-4, Existing Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis, shows the roadway segment capacity for existing conditions in the study area. All roadway segments currently operate within acceptable levels of service. The morning and evening peak hour levels of service for existing traffic conditions at intersections have been calculated and are shown in Table 5.14-5, Existing Intersection Delay and Level of Service. As shown in Tables 5.14-4 and 5.14-5, the study area intersections currently operate within acceptable levels of service during the peak hours for existing traffic conditions. Table 5.14-4 Existing Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis Roadway Segment Roadway Section Maximum Daily Capacity Average Daily Traffic Volume Volume to Capacity (V/Q Ratio Level of Service North of Avenue 50 4D 42,600 15,500 0.36 A Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico 4D 42,600 12,500 0.29 A Eisenhower Dr. Calle Tampico to Avenida Montezuma 4D 42,600 12,200 0.29 A Avenida Montezuma to Calle Sinaloa 4D 42,600 9,500 0.22 A Avenida Bermudas Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 2D 19,000 3,400 0.18 A Desert Club Dr. Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 2U 14,000 1,900 0.14 A Avenue 48 to Eisenhower Drive 6D 61,100 40,500 0.66 B Eisenhower Drive to Avenue 50 6D 61,100 26,900 0.44 A Washington St Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico 6D 61,100 23,100 0.38 A Calle Tampico to Avenida La Fonda 6D 61,100 14,600 0.24 A Avenida La Fonda to Avenue 52 6D 61,100 12,500 0.20 A Jefferson St Avenue 50 to Avenue 52 6D 61,100 19,500 0.32 A Eisenhower Dr to Washington St 4D 42,600 2,900 0.07 A Avenue 50 Washington St to Jefferson St 4D 42,600 10,700 0.25 A Eisenhower Drive to Avenida Bermudas 4D 42,600 4,300 0.10 A Calle Tampico Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Drive 4D 42,600 7,100 0.17 A Desert Club Dr to Washington St 4D 42,600 16,600 0.39 A Avenida La Fonda West of Washington Street 2U 14,000 1,400 0.10 A Calle Sinaloa Eisenhower Drive to Avenida Bermudas 4D 42,600 5,800 0.14 A Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Drive 4D 42,600 14,600 0.34 A Avenue 52 Desert Club Dr to Washington St 4D 42,600 15,600 0.37 A Washington St to Jefferson St 4D 42,600 11,500 0.27 A Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan TIA, Table 1, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 27, 2016. Notes: D = Divided (can be a raised curb or painted median), U = Undivided La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-13 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Table 5.14-5 Existing Intersection Delay and Level of Service Intersection' Traffic Contro12 Peak Hour Delay -LOS' Morning Evening Eisenhower Drive (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #1 TS 17.6-B 21.2-C Calle Tampico (EW) - #2 TS 22.1-C 28.3-C Avenida Montezuma (EW) - #3 AWS 20.5-C 14.7-B Calle Sinaloa (EW) - #4 RBT 8.1-A 6.1-A Avenida Bermudas (NS) at: Calle Tampico (EW) - #5 TS 27.2-C 26.7-C Calle Sinaloa/Avenue 52 (EW) - #6 TS 43.7-D 29.6-C Desert Club Drive (NS) at: Calle Tampico (EW) - #7 TS 34.1-C 31.7-C Avenue 52 (EW) - #8 TS 10.3-B 14.5-13 Washington Street (NS) at: Avenue 48 (EW) - #9 TS 23.9-C 20.1-C Eisenhower Drive (EW) - #10 TS 24.2-C 21.0-C Avenue 50 (EW) - #11 TS 28.6-C 23.2-C Calle Tampico (EW) - #12 TS 25.5-C 26.3-C Avenida La Fonda (EW) - #13 CSS 19.4-C 18.4-C Avenue 52 (EW) - #14 TS 22.0-C 25.0-C Jefferson Street (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #15 TS 32.9-C 33.4-C Avenue 52 (EW) - #16 RBT 6.5-A 7.1-A Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan TIA, Table 1, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 27, 2016. Notes: 1. Numbers following streets correspond to the intersections identified in Exhibit 5.16-1, Project Intersections and Roadway Locations. 2. TS = Traffic Signal; AWS = All Way Stop; RBT = Roundabout; CSS = Cross Street Stop 3. Intersection delay and Level of Service (LOS) has been calculated using the following analysis software: Traffix, Version 7.9.0215. Per the Highway Capacity Manual, overall average intersection delay and level of service are shown for intersections with traffic signal, all way stop, and roundabout yield controls. For intersections with cross street stop control, the delay and level of service for the worst individual movement (or movements sharing a single lane) are shown. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-14 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element Golf Cart, Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities Exhibit 5.14-4, Project Vicinity Golf Cart/NEV Paths, shows the City's existing golf cart and neighborhood electric vehicle paths in the vicinity of the Village Build -out Plan project area. The master plan for golf carts/NEVs corresponds to the City's Bike Paths and the area. Both Class 2 and Class 3 designations allow these to share the road with bicycles. Exhibit 5.4-5, Project Vicinity Bike Paths Master Plan, shows the City's master plan for bike lanes in the vicinity of the project area. Exhibit 5.14-6, Existing Pedestrian Facilities, show where cross walks and sidewalks are located within the project area. Transit Service The study area is currently served by the SunLine Transit Agency Route 70 along Washington Street. Exhibit 5.14-7, Existing SunLine Bus Routes, shows the routes within the City that can bring visitors to the La Quinta Village. 5.14.3 Applicable Goals and Policies rnA i rip - 1 A transportation and circulation network that efficiently, safely and economically moves people, vehicles, and goods using facilities that meet the current demands and projected needs of the City. Policy CIR -1.4 The General Plan recognizes the need for flexibility in applying and adapting roadway design standards and specifications, and authorizes the Public Works Director to make consistency findings to permit modifications that do not compromise the operational capacity of the subject roadway or intersection. Policy CIR -1.5 Where the construction of multiuse paths is called for but is determined to be infeasible sidewalks shall be constructed along at least one side of these roadways. Policy CIR -1.10 Establish and maintain minimum standards for roadway geometries, points of access and other improvements that facilitate movement of traffic onto and off of the roadway network. Program CIR-1.10.d: On Calle Tampico, between Eisenhower Drive and Washington, and on Eisenhower Drive, between Calle Tampico and Avenida Bermudas, full turn intersections may be permitted at a minimum distance of 500 feet, if the intersection complies with an approved Corridor Signal Plan. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-15 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Program CIR-1.10.e: On Secondary Arterials, the minimum intersection spacing shall be 600 feet. The design speed shall be 40 mph. Full access to adjoining property shall be avoided and shall exceed the following minimum separation distances (in all cases, distances shall be measured between the curb returns): • more than 250 feet on the approach leg to a full turn intersection; • more than 150 feet on the exit leg from a full turn intersection, and • more than 250 feet between driveways. All access configurations shall be subject to City Engineer review and approval. Program CIR-1.10.j: The City Engineer shall establish and maintain a traffic ---calming program that details acceptable traffic calming devices or concepts in residential neighborhoods. The City may review and finalize the 2008 "Neighborhood Traffic Management Program"for this purpose. Policy CIR -1.12 As a means of reducing vehicular traffic on major roadways and to reduce vehicle miles traveled by traffic originating in the City, the City shall pursue development of a land use pattern that maximizes interactions between adjacent or nearby land uses. Program CIR - 1.12.a: Locate land uses that provide jobs and housing near each other to allow the use of alternative modes of travel and produce shorter work commutes. Program CIR - 1.12.b: Encourage, and where appropriate require, mixed-use and contiguous commercial development to provide optimum internal connections between uses. Program CIR - 1.12.c: New development shall provide pedestrian and bicycle connections to adjacent streets, and assure that infrastructure and amenities accommodate pedestrian and bicycle use. Program CIR - 1.12.d: Update and facilitate use of the City's home occupation ordinance as a means of reducing the need for travel. Program CIR - 1.12.e: Encourage major employers to evaluate tele -commuting opportunities, either home-based or at local centers, as well as part-time options for employees. Policy CIR - 2.1 Encourage and cooperate with SunLine Transit Agency on the expansion of routes, facilities, services and ridership especially in congested areas and those with high levels of employment and commercial services, and encourage the use of most energy efficient and least polluting transportation technologies. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-16 August 2016 0 Note: Golf Cart/NEV Paths correspond to the City's Bike Paths in the area. Both Class 2 and 3 * ! designations allow these ! to share the road. ! a + +Calle Tampica �� • r ��. 1111111111 X111111111111111 111111111111111 .IIIIIIIIIIIIIIII 11111111111111111 111111111111111111 1111111111111111 'lllllllllllllll IIIIIIIIIIIII/ 'llllllllllli IIIIIIIIP. r-- -4■ Avenue 52 La Quinta Sports Complex ss ■ Avenue 50 Golf Cart ! NEV Paths Class 1 ♦ Silver Rock Resort •*♦ Class 2 Class 3 Not Permitted _44 Muli-Use Paths Village Build -Out Area Project Vicinity Golf Cart/NEV Paths G La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan The AltumGroup Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5.14-4 ♦ n !f ■ + Golf Cart ! NEV Paths Class 1 ♦ Silver Rock Resort •*♦ Class 2 Class 3 Not Permitted _44 Muli-Use Paths Village Build -Out Area Project Vicinity Golf Cart/NEV Paths G La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan The AltumGroup Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5.14-4 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-18 August 2016 The Altum Group Project Vicinity Bike Paths Master Plan La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5.14-5 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-20 August 2016 VO,,,`meq.- - • iii �. s �titw f0 xe- 4 a �+ IN 1+14' �1�------�- - � -- • � - - � , - � . � �,., .��. _ r — � L. •"me Ya. 19 E ap 4m Im to '116621 _ .v� a* Y~ art 11 7 4 ik. -40 21Lw Y Y" ► Ass OW ��� ,ter ,� , � � • � �' 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-22 August 2016 E115 The Altum Group Project Existing SunLine Bus Routes La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5-14.7 rrilr, � lilr-.�IaHrr iuo Y Bermuas � . Ad% rn�D 9 1 �4O J w 0 kllsgtlu,l QT {r f.rril,�rinn � . o ��� n _»I I.. �_luL• O Starlight Ln p yr e New York Avr 111 y P a Yennessee asa Oarbv Rd Q p Alt, 4 o •� Pr uCrrrant, �IaaY a Cah Torn�s Pr A... ,? o- it� a�� red Wminq Or . Flaida Arc 3 - r•.IG,. 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La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-24 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Program CIR - 2.2.a: Create an interconnected transportation system that allows a shift in travel from private passenger vehicles to alternative modes, including public transit, golf carts/NEVs, ride -sharing, car -sharing, bicycling, bicycle -sharing, and walking. To the extent practicable apply the following: a. Ensure transportation centers that are multi -modal, facilitate changes in travel modes, and are conveniently located. Convenient locations may be in the vicinities of: 1. Washington/Fred Waring/Via Sevilla 2. Miles/Adams 3. Adams/Highway 111/Avenue 47 4. Avenue 47/Caleo Bay 5. Washington/Calle Tampico 6. Eisenhower/Avenida Montezuma c. Expand golf cart/NEV routes, and bicycle routes to connect residential and activity centers with transportation centers. d. Support and encourage community car -sharing to provide "station cars" and/or golf carts/NEVs for short trips to/from transit centers. e. Include parking spaces for car -share vehicles at convenient locations accessible to public transit. f. Ensure transit stops are safe and sheltered, with adequate seating, lighting, trash receptacles, cleaning and maintenance. i. Implement bicycle -preferential measures such as deployment of video detection at traffic signals, and development of bicycle stations at transportation centers. j. Encourage covered, secure bicycle parking near building entrances and at transportation centers. k. Adopt bicycle parking standards that accommodate at least 5% of projected parking demand at all public and commercial facilities. I. Conduct bicycle and pedestrian safety educational programs to teach drivers, riders, and walkers the laws, riding protocols, routes, safety tips, and "healthy community" benefits. Program CIR-2.2.e: Adopt a comprehensive parking policy that encourages the use of alternative transportation, including requiring new commercial and retail developments to provide preferred parking for electric vehicles and vehicles using alternative fuels. Program CIR-2.2.g: Modify the Zoning Ordinance to recognize and provide a parking credit program for developments that provide spaces and facilities for golf carts, NEVs and bicycles. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-25 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Policy CIR - 2.3 Develop and encourage the use of continuous and convenient pedestrian and bicycle routes and multi -use paths to places of employment, recreation, shopping, schools, and other high activity areas with potential for increased pedestrian, bicycle, and golf cart/NEV modes of travel. Program CIR - 2.3.a: Maintain and periodically update the Circulation Element master plan of bikeways, golf cart routes and multi -use paths, and develop or require the development of secure bicycle and golf cart/NEV storage facilities, and other s upport facilities which increase bicycle and golf cart/NEV use. Policy LU -7.5 Develop a Master Non -Motorized Transportation Plan for the Village. Policy LU -7.7 Continue to allow off-site parking through the payment of in lieu fees in the Village, as well as other creative parking alternatives. 5.14.4 Project Impacts Thresholds of Significance The following thresholds are derived from Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, and are used to determine the level of potential effect. The significance determination is based on the recommended criteria set forth in Section 15064 of the CEQA Guidelines. Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan would have a significant effect on traffic and circulation if it is determined that the project will: 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? 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. 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. Result in inadequate parking capacity. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-26 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION g. Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance or safety of such facilities. To further define threshold b above, a potentially significant project traffic impact is defined to occur at any signalized intersection if the addition of project trips would result in the level of service for a given intersection to meet or exceed the criteria below: Post -Project Level of Service Change in Level of Service E Either an increase in delay of 2 seconds or more (HCM) or 30 peak hour trips or more (ICU) on critical movements per lane F Either an increase in delay of 1 second or more (HCM) or 15 peak hour trips or more (ICU) on critical movements per lane A potentially significant project traffic impact at an unsignalized study intersection is defined to occur when, with the addition of project traffic, an intersection has a projected LOS F on a side street for two-way stop control or LOS E or worse for the intersection at an all -way stop controlled intersection and the addition of project traffic results in an addition of three (3) seconds or more of delay for any movement. Roadway segment impacts are those defined to occur on any roadway segment if the segment is projected to be operating at LOS E or LOS F with project traffic included and the peak hour V/C in the peak direction is increased by 0.02 or more by addition of project traffic at existing plus project or at project opening years. If the proposed project is forecast to result in a significant impact at a particular study intersection or roadway segment, feasible mitigation measures must be identified that reduce the impact to a less than significant level. Mitigation measures can be in many forms, including addition of lanes, traffic control modification, or demand management measures. If no feasible mitigation measures can be identified for a significantly impacted facility, the impact will remain significant and unavoidable. alb. Conflict with Applicable Plans, Ordinances, or Policies Measuring the Performance of the Circulation System Trip Generation Trip generation rates were determined for dailytrips, morning peak hour inbound and outbound trips, and evening peak hour inbound and outbound trips for the proposed land uses. The number of trips forecast to be generated by the proposed project are determined by multiplying the trip generation rates by the land use quantities. Table 5.14-6, Project Trip Generation, shows the project trip generation based upon rates obtained from the Institute of Transportation Engineers, Trip Generation Manual, 9th Edition, 2012. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-27 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION The project trip generation shown on Table 5.14-6 accounts for the effect of internal trips resulting from the proposed mix of retail and residential land uses within the Village Build -out Plan project area. For example, a future resident may decide to walk or bike to a future retail land use within the project area, as the City intends to provide a complete network of sidewalks, and provide additional bike infrastructure in the project area. In this case, two vehicular trips would be reduced; one outbound trip from the residential land use and one inbound trip to the retail land use. Internal trips during the morning and evening peak hours were calculated in accordance with procedures contained in the National Cooperative Highway Research Program, Report 684, 2011. Internal daily trips were calculated in accordance with procedures contained in the Institute of Transportation Engineers, Trip Generation Manual, 9th Edition, 2012. Project Evaluation under 2035 General Plan Method of Projection To assess future traffic conditions, existing traffic is combined with project traffic, ambient growth, and other development. The Interim Year for analysis purposes in the TIA is 2021 and the General Plan Build -out year is 2035. The City of La Quinta Traffic Model was used to develop background and General Plan Build -out traffic volumes. Other Development A City-wide cumulative project summary report showing currently approved, under construction, and pending developments was provided by City staff. Table 4-5 in Chapter 4, Project Description, contains the cumulative project summary report as well as project location for the other developments. City of La Quinta Traffic Model To derive background and General Plan Build -out traffic volumes, the City of La Quinta Traffic Model was used for the Village Build -out Plan. The long-range traffic volume forecasts have been determined using the growth increment approach on the Year 2009 and Year 2035 traffic volume forecasts. This difference defines the growth in traffic over the 26 year period. The incremental growth in traffic volume was factored to reflect the forecast growth between existing traffic volumes (Year 2015) and Year 2035. For this purpose, linear growth between the Year 2009 base condition and the forecast Year 2035 condition was assumed. Since the increment between existing Year 2015 and Year 2035 is 20 years of the 26 year time frame, a factor of 0.77 (i.e., 20/26) was used. The average daily traffic forecasts for General Plan Build -out Without Project were also checked for consistency with the forecasts contained in the City of La Quinta General Plan. To derive morning and evening peak hour intersection turning movement volumes, the traffic growth forecasts were further refined using a spreadsheet program developed by the Federal Highway La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-28 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Administration and consistent with traffic forecasting procedures outlined in the National Cooperative Highway Research Program Report 255. The spreadsheet program used a linear programming algorithm to calculate future individual turning movements based on the relationship of existing intersection turning movements and forecast model growth by approach. Table 5.14-6 Project Trip Generation Land Use Quantity Units' Peak Hour' Daily Morning Evening Inbound Outbound Total Inbound Outbound Total Trip Generation Rates Specialty Retail' TSF 0.60 0.36 0.96 1.19 1.52 2.71 44.32 Multi -Family Residential - DU 0.10 0.41 0.51 0.40 0.22 0.62 6.65 Trips Generated at Interim Specialty Retail 120.0 TSF 72 43 115 143 182 325 5,318 - Internal Trips -1 0 -1 -11 -36 -47 -745 - Subtotal 71 43 114 132 146 278 4,573 Multi -Family Residential 195 DU 20 79 99 78 43 121 1,297 - Internal Trips' 0 -1 -1 -36 -11 -47 -182 - Subtotal 20 78 98 42 32 74 1,115 Percent Internal 1% 1% 1% 21% 21% 21% 14% Total Interim Year Trip Generation 1 91 1 121 1 212 174 178 352 5,688 Trips Generated at Build -out Specialty Retail 800.0 TSF 480 288 768 952 1,216 2,168 35,456 - Internal Trips' -5 -2 -7 -75 -226 -301 -4,609 - Subtotal 475 286 761 877 990 1,867 30,847 Multi -Family Residential 1,230 DU 123 504 627 492 271 763 8,180 - Internal Trips' -2 -5 -7 -226 -75 -301 -1,063 - Subtotal 121 499 620 266 196 462 7,117 Percent Internal 1% 1% 1% 21% 20% 21% 13% Total Build -out Trip Generation 596 785 1,381 1,143 1,186 2,329 37,964 Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan TIA, Table 3, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 27, 2016. Notes: 1. TSF = Thousand Square Feet; DU = Dwelling Units. 2. The Institute of Transportation Engineers Trip Generation Manual does not provide a morning peak hour trip generation rate for Specialty Retail land use; therefore, the morning peak hour trip generation rate the Shopping Center land use (820) was utilized. 3. Internal trips during the AM and PM peak hour were calculated in accordance with procedures contained in the National Cooperative Highway Research Program, Report 684, 2011. Internal daily trips were calculated in accordance with procedures contained in the Institute of Transportation Engineers, Trip Generation Manual, 9th Edition, 2012. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-29 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION The forecast turning movements developed by the spreadsheet program were reviewed for reasonableness and adjusted as necessary to ensure minimum traffic growth. The end results of the post -processing procedures described are future traffic volumes suitable for analysis. Similar to the comparison process used to establish existing conditions, the initial post -processed traffic volumes were compared to the General Plan Year 2035 forecasts contained in the General Plan Update Analysis. Traffic volumes from the General Plan TIA were used at intersections where the total traffic volume was greater than the post -processed forecasts. Finally, the intersection traffic volumes were adjusted for reasonable flow conservation between intersections. Since the City of La Quinta Traffic Model assumes Build -out of the City in accordance with the General Plan land use designations, the traffic forecasts contained in the traffic model already included some development within the project boundary. In addition, the Village Build -out Plan does not require a general plan amendment as all future uses identified in the Plan are allowed in the project area. Based on the socioeconomic inputs for the project zones, it was estimated that the traffic model accounts for approximately 220,051 square feet of commercial development. Therefore, forecasts of the net project trip generation compared to the traffic model data was used to derive General Plan Build -out With Project traffic volumes. Table 5.14-7, Net Project Trip Generation for General Plan Build -out Analysis, shows the net project trip generation compared to the City of La Quinta Traffic Model data based on the currently adopted General Plan. Future Traffic Volumes Existing Plus Project Traffic Volumes The traffic volumes for Existing Plus Project conditions were derived by adding the project -generated trips to existing traffic volumes. Interim Year Without Project Traffic Volumes The traffic volumes for Interim Year conditions were derived by prorating the General Plan Build -out traffic volumes to the Interim Year and adding trips generated by other developments. Exhibit 5.14- 8, Interim Year Without Project Average Daily Traffic Volumes, Exhibit 5.14-9, Interim Year Without Project Morning Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes, and Exhibit 5.14-10, Interim Year Without Project Evening Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes, all show Interim Year intersection volumes without traffic associated with the proposed project. Interim Year With Project Traffic Volumes The traffic volumes for Interim Year With Project conditions were derived by adding trips generated by the proposed project to Interim Year Without Project traffic volumes. Exhibit 5.14-11, Interim Year With Project Average Daily Traffic Volumes, Exhibit 5.14-12, Interim Year With Project Morning La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-30 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes, and Exhibit 5.14-13, Interim Year With Project Evening Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes, all show Interim Year intersection volumes with traffic associated with the proposed project. Table 5.14-7 Net Project Trip Generation for General Plan Build -out Analysis Land Use Quantity Units' Peak Hour' Daily Morning Evening Trip Generation Rates Specialty Retail' - TSF 0.96 2.71 44.32 Multi -Family Residential - DU 0.51 0.62 6.65 Traffic Model/Current General Plan Specialty Retail 220,051 TSF 211 596 9,753 Proposed Village Build -Out Plan Specialty Retail 960,711 TSF 922 2,604 42,579 Internal Trips4 -7 -316 -4,684 Subtotal 915 2,288 37,895 Multi -Family Residential 1,230 DU 627 763 8,180 Internal Trips4 -7 -316 -900 Subtotal 620 447 7,280 Percent Internal 1% 19% 11% Total per Proposed Village Build -Out Plan 1,535 2,735 45,175 Net Trip Generation for General Plan Build -Out Specialty Retail 704 1,692 28,142 Multi -Family Residential 620 447 7,280 Total Net Trip Generation 1,324 2,139 35,422 Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan TIA, Table 4, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 27, 2016. Notes: 1. Institute of Transportation Engineers, Trip Generation Manual, 9th Edition, 2012, Land Use Categories 220 and 826/820. 2. TSF = Thousand Square Feet; DU = Dwelling Units. 3. The Institute of Transportation Engineers Trip Generation Manual does not provide morning peak hour trip generation rates for the specialty retail land use; therefore, the morning peak hour trip generation rate the shopping center land use (820) was utilized. 4. Internal trips during the AM and PM peak hour were calculated in accordance with procedures contained in the National Cooperative Highway Research Program, Report 684, 2011. Internal daily trips were calculated in accordance with procedures contained in the Institute of Transportation Engineers, Trip Generation Manual, 9th Edition, 2012. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-31 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-32 August 2016 jv, C. 4. ... . . . . . . .. . . . . ul le i Loa & u u'o Op #m fthl V3.4. ILI -Z Mrqw—llr I 4 m Tampico sw Aven- c 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-34 August 2016 111 Vil Avenid N 0 0 s d W Calle Sinaloa Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Ave Montezuma (EW) � ro � v 3 a m r Avenue 48 s_� =w9mr+s ..4. T.r j r2 Desert Club Drive Calle t: rffi/z� Avenida/ La Fonda _IV Avenue 50 Avenue 52 Legend 0 =intersection Reference No. --- = La Quinta Village Build -Out Project Boundary Eisenhower Dr (NS) at I Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) cn t64 v t75 cnor-Morn X20 NNM �4 4) j �► 4) j26 j 143 3 21� ]� oo1m NCO 0� 0� v1v ^t0 Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Ave Bermudas (NS) at Ave Bermudas (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Calle Sinaloa (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) CII Sinaloa/Ave 52 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) Avenue 48 (EW) ITM t11 00 t44 t37 t20 M 1113 t45 "' t285 r1v mmo r' r4rnM X201 mLnN X240 ��m X395 0�LO �0 r1N0 �5 NNN X72 rro� X194 � 1 �► j16 � 1 �► j120 � 1 �► j126 � 1 �► j215 4) j71 4) r18 4) -476 2721 T 11 T 231 T 321 4) T 105 731 � T � 01 NIP � 0 204 128 334-♦ rlo)rm 140_+m00N 1217 rloo 0-♦ 00)N N r10 00 r10) tD r1 o r r10) � � C-11 ic 24 0 15 3 T Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Jefferson St (NS) at Jefferson St (NS) at Eisenhower Dr (EW) Avenue 50 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) Avenida La Fonda (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) Avenue 50 (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) ^`^t15 ^O 1412 kD'T t72 v t0 O) 0 1396 �D�D"' t296 vNv 1373 V n00 01n0 MNN lD. 1 IDNID lDc100 0000 va)N 2 vr-N F142 N(Drn X78 tOtDN *__0 Nr1M X189 N01r1 X381 1r,r1 X338 4) 4) l ► _ 107 4) l ► j-48 4) r0 4) l r37 4) x108 4) -55 8121 421 4� T (► 2441 4) 421 4) T (1, 7871 4) T (1, 2211 4) T (1, 651 4) 4-* o iD oo 150 —► co 01n 77 -* ko w rn 0 �0 r10 443-+ �o M r1 277-* �o o) r, 261-* -ti-,.o r -i NN lO fVO MrIM Lnm Cn r1 N0Ln 00�1n 18 00 15 m r1 17 o c 1 14 r1 1 49 0) 228---j, r_4 Ln N r_4 r_1 Source: Kunzman Associates, 2016 EL 15 The Altum Group Interim Year Without Project Morning Peak Hour Intersection Turning Volumes La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report N W E S Exhibit 5.14-9 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-36 August 2016 111 Vil Avenid N 0 L d W Calle Sinaloa Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Ave Montezuma (EW) Desert /� Club Drive Avenida/ La Fonda i i .N � ro � v 3 m Avenue 48 Legend intersection Reference No. i � r 1 7 ` ■Y %* La Quinta Village Build -Out s KIM Project Boundary Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) 1O "-77 � "-98 ri �� X16 omv �0 � j �► j90 � j �► j285 116-+ � of 1 v 0 --► � T 12� `1o�D 8� � t1141ft14f1 + :y.�.�: YWY➢LIf.Y� �' "-50 "-44 r' "-42 0 "-24 "-70 O1D 1214 O Ln NVN X25 O lD kD�N X98 N r` Mr`m X276 Ln `1 lD 1n`Im X385 .--� N �DMr1 n IM .--� r`oco X763 lD V 0`1 r1 _ •�^�� 5 •� ii � 1 �► S. e• x• _ 300 4) F200 4) j424 4) j 138 4) iwfG Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Ave Bermudas (NS) at Ave Bermudas (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Calle Sinaloa (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) CII Sinaloa/Ave 52 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) Avenue 48 (EW) "O Ln "-37 �' "-50 "-44 r' "-42 0 "-24 "-70 O1D 1214 O Ln NVN X25 O lD kD�N X98 N r` Mr`m X276 Ln `1 lD 1n`Im X385 .--� N �DMr1 X408 IM .--� r`oco X763 lD V 0`1 r1 �0 � 1 �► j 50 � 1 �► _ 300 4) F200 4) j424 4) j 138 4) j 10 '4) j 612 1431 �1 1 (� 11 41T(� 91 4) 34 341 41T( 511 41T(� 421 �T 01 141 41T 0� 25� mooN N `1 84� 0� 0`1N 01 r` 139-♦ 37� r`otD 't -1 `1 139-♦ 5� 1n1nrn r' r` 249, 12� oovrn M m `1 495 0� 01.01* 0-♦ 0 0`1`1 `1 M 2541 4) (11 m r`o r N m`1rn 1 r`No m to-im r1 N`10 317-+ � 1.1n Washington St (NS) at Eisenhower Dr (EW) 0 o Ln oo "-49 r` 1m �8 4) �3 6601 T �► 1� `10N 21 rn00`1 Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Jefferson St (NS) at Jefferson St (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) Avenida La Fonda (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) Avenue 50 (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) v'" "-345 m 0 "-56 m "-0 m O 1422 �° r, r1 "-235 0` `1 1354 ul civ .-M X110 r``--1 `1 moors X68 0o 01N voo`-1 �0 n000) 1:4-4 1:* X411 ko-iOm X379 OIDv NooN X363 4) x143 4) l ► X33 4) r0 4) r42 4) -194 4) -50 471_ �T(► 3581 4)T/► 761 4) (11 2981 �T�► 581 4) 2541 4) (11 137 r`o r 120-* m`1rn 0� r`No 264 to-im 402-+ N`10 317-+ a)tDn 15� Ci rn M 59� N `1 1n r` 40� `1 N r, 0� M N 82� 0) Ln N 11 309 `1 r,r` NI`N Source: Kurtzman Associates, 2016 EL 15 The Altum Group Interim Year Without Project Evening Peak Hour Intersection Turning Volumes La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report N W ✓ E S, Exhibit 5.14-10 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-38 August 2016 jv, C. 4. ... . . . . . . .. . . . . 101 opw i. V a Vm; & ttJ'ali 0� m Tampico%'r Aven e 52 T, 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-40 August 2016 111 Vil Avenid Calle Sinaloa Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Ave Montezuma (EW) Desert Club Drive Avenida/ La Fonda Avenue 48 Legend intersection Reference No. i � r 7 ` ■ Y %* La Quinta Village Build -Out s KIM Project Boundary Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) 1O t64 � t77 M�lf1 X20 NNM �4 � j �► ,F-70 � j �► j 147 21� oo1a 0� v1 7� Np`"oo 0� t1141ft14f1 lij+ ,y...��; YWY➢Llf.�y l7Pr 0 t44 t46 t21 a 1126 t49 v 1285 ��S.i•..1'Ce:�X1.�� A �6 26 X75 3_ X201 Mr1V NSM X203 m0)M o01nN X263 Mr1r� �rIM X397 00 0r1LO 5 �1�► j16 �1�► j121 •��� •� j135 �1�► j215 �1�► j83 • �rH j18 4) 1* ANA j484 2741 T � ro -a v - 3 Q v 1' ca Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Ave Bermudas (NS) at Ave Bermudas (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Calle Sinaloa (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) CII Sinaloa/Ave 52 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) Avenue 48 (EW) i 1A 10 t12 0 t44 t46 t21 a 1126 t49 v 1285 r1v r1N0 �6 OVO MNN X75 M o r1�N X201 Mr1V NSM X203 m0)M o01nN X263 Mr1r� �rIM X397 00 0r1LO �0 �1�► j16 �1�► j121 �1�► j135 �1�► j215 �1�► j83 4) j18 4) 1* ANA j484 2741 T 31 T 271 T 381 � T 1081 T 761 4 T 01 � T 0 � o r� r1 210 o rn rl 143 �o oo v 337-+ rl o rn 183 _+ M 00 0 1220 r100 0-+ 00 0 24� rl lD ,n 0� 00 Lfl ,n r1 17� c -I 3� r1 N 00 r1m 2i r10) 00 1� r1 0� l0 N rlin Washington St (NS) at Eisenhower Dr (EW) M vo00 t15 �_q �2 4) ► �3 8121 T �► 4—* olnoo 18 N 0000 Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Jefferson St (NS) at Jefferson St (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) Avenida La Fonda (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) Avenue 50 (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) 000 1412 1O'T t72 N t0 O1 m 1402 '' -- 1296 vNv 1373 0100 v0ON F142 r, CA rVtoM X85 lDN �wN �0 IDNID "V fro X194 r- -100 N01r1 X387 0000 345 4) ► - 118 4) 1 X48 4) 1 1 r0 4) 1 r37 4) x108 4) -55 or 2301 �T�► 421 �T�► 3201 4)T(► 421 4)T(► 7871 4)T(► 661 4) 150 oo rl rn 82 � r1 tD rn 0 � �o �o o 451 �o M r1 287-+ po o r, 275-+ oo,.o r 15 � l0 00 N 22-1 25 � r-1 M o r1 15 � N M J 1 � M r1 49 � N �--1 1n 01 230 00 � 1n r_4 V) N Source: Kurtzman Associates, 2016 EL 15 The Altum Group Interim Year With Project Morning Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report N WI*E S Exhibit 5.14-12 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-42 August 2016 ill Vil Avenid N 0 0 s ar W Calle Sinaloa Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Ave Montezuma (EW) � ro � v 3 a m r Avenue 48 Desert Club Drive Calle t: rffi/z� Avenida/ La Fonda -IV Avenue 50 Avenue 52 iwfG Legend 0 =intersection Reference No. --- = La Quinta Village Build -Out Project Boundary Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) m-1 t 77 Ln t105 rn o ��or\ X16 0M1n +--0 4) j ooMm �D 1M 4) j �► j299 12 o,1�n 2 ?a 6� 12� r ��0 0� 8� moo � 1 �► j307 4) 1 ► AA Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Ave Bermudas (NS) at Ave Bermudas (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Calle Sinaloa (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) CII Sinaloa/Ave 52 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) Avenue 48 (EW) 0) Ln 00t38 a1 t50 t62 v t45 `n t49 t77 N"o t214 01.0 'n4-26 Calle Tampico (EW) rninto ko�N 4-112 a) 1v CONN X295 ooMm �D 1M X392 oovv �oM4 X454 1n m 000L0 X765 nv 0-1-4 *--0 � 1 �► j52 � 1 �► j307 4) 1 ► AA x216� 1 �► j424 llllk 4) 1 ► A% j162 4) X82 1* ANA j627 146 X421 51 161 4) 46--",P,, T�► 581 �1T�► 471 �T�► 0-1""4) r42 1� mooa NN 96� 000r` 011 156 0CnCN LnNm 144 1n nm 0) r, 293 oovN Mmm 497 0-1� ovN 2641 137 0 134-* 40 0 5 274 025 329-+ 0 r, Ln Washington St (NS) at Eisenhower Dr (EW) o Ln oo t 49 r`_qM 8 4)1► �3 6601 T �► 1-* -4C) 21 M J `1 Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Jefferson St (NS) at Jefferson St (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) Avenida La Fonda (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) Avenue 50 (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) N 1345 00 t 56 M t0 m r1 t 433 r\ � r1 1235 0 r- -' 1354 C-4 u'1N 001M X110 Ln.-1�1 vooLn X82 000N v0)� 4 �0 P,o00 TN Ln X421 r--1r10M X390 �tov NOON X376 4) l ► x164 4) -33 4) l ► r0 4) r42 4) -194 4) -50 471 4311 4) (1' 761 4)T(1- 2981 591 2641 137 r`r- -zzr 134-* m.1(n 0 00"o 274 tor-im 412-+ Nr-io 329-+ 1n,.o1n 15� M00 i1 ,1,1 68� to r 1 Ln r` 41--,,,1. r -I M 0� M N 82 --j, 0) Ln N J,1 317--j,Nr"N N r, r- Source: Kurtzman Associates, 2016 EL 15 The Altum Group Interim Year With Project Evening Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report N W P S Exhibit 5.14-13 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-44 August 2016 C. 4. ... . . . . . . .. . . . . opw i. tt V & 0� m Tampico %'r Milt tl W-ra's Avenue 52 T, 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-46 August 2016 111 Vil Avenid Calle Sinaloa - I Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Ave Montezuma (EW) Desert Club Drive Avenida/ La Fonda Avenue 48 Legend intersection Reference No. i � r 7 ` ■ Y ri4F''� 1 %* La Quinta Village Build -Out s KIM Project Boundary Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) � t87 � t84 1n 111 Q1 X21 NNM �4 � j �► j616 � j �► j152 28i MIO 0� -It a) t1141ft14f1 lij+Ln ,y. ��; YWY➢LIf. 1y l7Pr L/1 t48 t40 t29 n1 t118 t38 O1 t279 �S.i•..1'Ce:�X1.�� A �6 01110 MNN �]Q --"T4)f X206 ONM X219 mLDN X281 N�� QC O�00 1t� � 1 �► r15 � 1 �► r123 4) x158 � 1 �► -222 4) j67 4) j18 � 1 �► j479 278? �1 1 (� i ft � ro -a v - 3 L Q CU a m Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Ave Bermudas (NS) at Ave Bermudas (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Calle Sinaloa (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) CII Sinaloa/Ave 52 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) Avenue 48 (EW) v Orn t11 L/1 t48 t40 t29 n1 t118 t38 O1 t279 Nv1 a-iNO �6 01110 MNN �]Q N ciOc-I X206 ONM X219 mLDN X281 N�� X416 O�00 �0 � 1 �► r15 � 1 �► r123 4) x158 � 1 �► -222 4) j67 4) j18 � 1 �► j479 278? �1 1 (� 11 41T(� 321 41T(� 291 41T(� 1121 .41T(� 791 41T( 01 41T 0� Amo 216 olnln 141 M,11n 354-♦ Nm� 156-♦ ln.�o 1323-♦ .iso 0-♦ OMc-1 25� ci 01 In 0� N In lo,� 22� u'f O c -I 3� rl r -I c -I 718 2� c -I O u'f ,-, 1� . 1 0� V1 O 0)r` Washington St (NS) at Eisenhower Dr (EW) 0 mN.i tD Lnt14 00 -1 �3 .) 1 �► �2 11551 T �► 3-* -:t Ln to 10� 1V00 Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Jefferson St (NS) at Jefferson St (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) Avenida La Fonda (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) Avenue 50 (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) v` 1 1605 ` t91 m t0 m oo t916 00 r, 1461 `°N`° 1568 v10 r4 v -N X136 Nom �M X31 a10 coo �0 N m N0000 X245 00 Nim X534 NSM X565 4) l ► x168 4) -70 4) 1 '► r0 4) l ► r39 4) '* j-293 4) '* j-60 — CID or or 1441 4) T (► 81 � T (► 2371 � T /► 01 4) 1 (1, 7461 4) T (► 1031 4) 28 ► r` -io 55-* 1nNo1 0� .1100 579 vinoo 321-+ oo�M 519-+ u1r-ioc 3� . 1 lDl n - 16 .--I In Ln Ln v� r_4 38� r\ N � � 15� M a 4 50 -j, In a1 Ln Nc-I � 621 N Ln l0 vW Source: Kurtzman Associates, 2016 EL 15 The Altum Group General Plan Build -out Without Project Morning Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5.14-15 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-48 August 2016 ill Vil Avenid 3 0 s a W Calle Sinaloa Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Ave Montezuma (EW) � ro � v 3 a a`, m r Avenue 48 s_� =w9mr+s r2 Desert Club Drive Calle t: rffi/z� Avenida/ La Fonda Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Calle Sinaloa (EW) -IV Avenue 50 Avenue 52 L .N" Legend 0 = Intersection Reference No. --- = La Quinta Village Build -Out Project Boundary Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) -i Lnn o 4- 126 00 r, X18 4) 4 r81 93 * 18� N1N 13� Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Calle Tampico (EW) r- 4-63 O tDN +__0 4) 1 4 r2s2 11 I 0� r1�� 4� Ave Bermudas (NS) at Ave Bermudas (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Calle Tampico (EW) CII Sinaloa/Ave 52 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) Avenue 48 (EW) O ^1* 4-53M 4-99"-52 Washington St (NS) at O1 4-51 O 4-25 4-65 M1D 1259 tDM NtDM 4-27 Orn0 0)1* X103 V V m001* 4-290 00� 10 V1* 4-463 VON kDm4 X458 00 01 I,o1* X875 Mto ON -4 +__0 � 1 �► j55 4) j314 4)1 ► x211 � 1 �► j439 4) 1 ► j125 � 1 �► j12 � 1 1* j860 203 41T/► 19 �T/► 10 4)t(► 23--"(1"4) �T, 57 NmN 411 4) T ( 01 1111111 �1 T ( 0 30� m 1 93 0� 01.0 161 34� o0 1rn 1* 1N 152 6� tDm-1 Nv 287 13� 1*mo 492 0 01.01* 0� 0-4, 00)00 Mm 1* M Into Washington St (NS) at Eisenhower Dr (EW) 00 1.27 -4 M 4-5 4) �2 11201 T �► 1—* In0N 18 mo`1 Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) Avenida La Fonda (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) m N 4- 632 1* m 1.47 0,10 1.0 r- 0 1922 -i 111.0 X32 In -1 01 mem X65 ci N1* 1.o-1 0 *--0VV00 M N X498 4 l� r258 4) -51 4) l ro 4) lOh x107 281 41T/► 3421 �T/► 01 4)t(► 4 2661 �T, 111—► 8� NmN 121-* 90� m1*rn 0� 92� NN0 274 5� ',tDtO 1*1* N 0 "I N "I Source: Kurtzman Associates, 2016 EL 15 The Altum Group Jefferson St (NS) at rl Jefferson St (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) kcon 0, 4-285 ;04N 4-567 N_11* X565 Ni1M X894 4) l ► x458 4) j38 627 a r N 636 Ln 0)0) 1 192 585-+ N T 122 r o om General Plan Build -out Without Project Evening Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report N W�&_E S Exhibit 5.14-16 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. 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La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-52 August 2016 Im Vil Avenid Calle Sinaloa r Avenue 48 r2 _IV Avenue 50 Legend 0 = Intersection Reference No. --- = La Quinta Village Build -Out Project Boundary Eisenhower Dr (NS) at I Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) 1,0 t87 O t96 LnLnm X21 M Ln NNLn �4 4) j X249 j �► 4)33 j 178 r4LDm I X418 3 X424 22 8� MSO 0� 0� v1m �O � 1 �► r207 Yl j222 Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Ave Montezuma (EW) i�//d Calle Avenida/ La Fonda � ro � v 3 a a`, m Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Calle Sinaloa (EW) Avenue 52 iwfG L .N" Ave Bermudas (NS) at Ave Bermudas (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Calle Tampico (EW) I CII Sinaloa/Ave 52 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) I Avenue 52 (EW) r,Mt16 00 t48 '•" t97 t37 `-' 1^ 1197 t61 N^ .--NM 4-7] m(oO MNN X94 Ln ND NNr-4 X249 vrn0 M�� X230 r4LDm I X418 tDDr11V X424 � 1 �► j19 � 1 �► j134 � 1 �► r207 � 1 �► j222 4) j142 4) C18 289 LOOM Mr1M 15 010 00,10 54 N 0) N0000 68--"("4) NIt Ln Mr1M 1341 ODM 98 1� �x1 2 4) 255 4) 1 ► 242 4) l ► 373-♦ Nrnri 436_+Lnrioo 1345 0(� 1,rTi 1 25 0 31 3 a1 2� r-10 Ln 1 81. 4)11/11- Washington St (NS) at Eisenhower Dr (EW) N 0) 1:T t14 00 r-1 N 3 4) �2 11551 T �► 3-* Nr4Lo 10 o0 Washington St (NS) at Avenue 48 (EW) 00v 1279 0x100 +--0 '4) 1 1* j529 01 �1 1 0-1� ornN 0-4, N1 - Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Jefferson St (NS) at Jefferson St (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) Avenida La Fonda (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) Avenue 50 (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) m,1 t605 ^m t91 oNo t0 m ^ t949 O�m t461 °°"0- 1568 Ln r11 Ln v -r4 X137 LOOM Mr1M X75 010 00,10 �0 N 0) N0000 X276 NIt Ln Mr1M X568 ODM X605 4) -233 4) -70 4) 1 ► r0 4) l ► r39 4) j-60 1991 �T�► 81. 4)11/11- 7221 01 411(1, 7461 4)T (1, 1111 4)1(1, 32—► 1'Na 82-* LoN0) 0� M1,o 629 vLnoo 384-+ oornm 607-+ 1,r -loo 3� r-1 Ln 00 r1N 67� v Ln Ln ori 46� ^ Ln �0 15� M ri 50 -j, Ln " Ln Jr -1 634---j,ItkD v Ln o Source: Kurtzman Associates, 2016 EL 15 The Altum Group General Plan Build -out With Project Morning Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report N i W _,;P E /�� SI,' Exhibit 5.14-18 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-54 August 2016 ill Vil r Avenue 48 -IV Avenue 50 Legend 0 =intersection Reference No. --- = La Quinta Village Build -Out Project Boundary Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Avenue 50 (EW) x, 0) 0 1 126 00^-4 X18 4) j �► j83 93 18� N1N 13 ,. Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Calle Tampico (EW) C14N ^ 1104 OLD Ln +__0 4) j �► j370 11 I 0� iNN 4� ^� i�//d Calle Avenid Avenida/ La Fonda Calle Sinaloa � ro � 110 , Q Avenue 52 &E Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Eisenhower Dr (NS) at Ave Bermudas (NS) at Ave Bermudas (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Desert Club Dr (NS) at Ave Montezuma (EW) I Calle Sinaloa (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) CII Sinaloa/Ave 52 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) I Avenue 52 (EW) 0)0 t58 my t99 0 1165 00'T t68 00 0 1176 ^ t108 000 N^� X31 .100 ��� X183 WLDLn ^rn� X406 NInLn �N� X502 OON X737 QOM X892 � 1 �► j69 4) t632 '* j-305 4) 1 '*j 439 4) 1 ► X267 4) j12 222 M ci LD ,1r1iM 451 ^ Ln ci 1-1Lo 491 �T� 93-""'P" T� 961 �1T� 751 X631 3� 30� �ooLn mLD 1 163 0� omm Lno 262-♦ 51� ^rnv LD0ON 186 6� IONcI 0)v 551 13� 11Lo �Mv 507 0� oLDa -45891 Ln j38 �� N ,1M N Washington St (NS) at Avenue 48 (EW) Ln Ln 1259 1 ,F-952 01 41 1 0o^oo 0-4, �m Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Washington St (NS) at Jefferson St (NS) at Jefferson St (NS) at Eisenhower Dr (EW) Avenue 50 (EW) Calle Tampico (EW) Avenida La Fonda (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) Avenue 50 (EW) Avenue 52 (EW) o^ t27 0r" t632 m t47 t0 ^ ' 1986 00O°' 1285 '�� t567 M ci LD ,1r1iM 5 ^ Ln ci 1-1Lo 4-34 N -1 0) 00-1M X144 ci N �I0 *__0 � M 00 vv00 X558 IDM M 1v X631 V1 Ln N N—iM X974 4) 4) -384 4) l ► X51 4) ► r0 4) -107 4) -45891 � l �► j38 2531 4)T(0- 11201 281. 4,T(1- 7921 01 4)1(1, 2661 4)T(► 711 4)T(1- 1—* LnrnN 113 ► NooLD 211 mLno 0 00000 334 ^LnN 650-+ Nm 1 701-+ m^N 18 � m 0)i1 m8 � M ;T co Ln 149 Ln � 0) rr 0 95 � N 00 N LD lD 5 � 122 LD O O c -I Ln rn --I 681---j,LD O 0) O 0) i1 Source: Kurtzman Associates, 2016 EL 15 The Altum Group General Plan Build -out With Project Evening Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report N i W _';P E /�� SI,' Exhibit 5.14-19 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-56 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION General Plan Build -out Without Project Traffic Volumes To derive General Plan Build -out Without Project traffic volumes, the City of La Quinta Traffic Model was used as previously described. Exhibit 5.14-14, General Plan Build -out Without Project Average Daily Traffic Volumes, Exhibit 5.14- 15, General Plan Build -out Without Project Morning Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes, and Exhibit 5.14-16, General Plan Build -out Without Project Evening Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes, all show General Plan Build -out intersection volumes without traffic associated with the proposed project. General Plan Build -out With Project Traffic Volumes To derive General Plan Build -out With Project traffic volumes, project trips were added to General Plan Build -out Without Project traffic volumes. Exhibit 5.14-17, General Plan Build -out With Project Average Daily Traffic Volumes, Exhibit 5.14-18, General Plan Build -out With Project Morning Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes, and Exhibit 5.14-19, General Plan Build -out With Project Evening Peak Hour Intersection Turning Movement Volumes, all show General Plan Build -out intersection volumes with traffic associated with the proposed project. Future Levels of Service Existing Plus Project Levels of Service Table 5.14-8, Existing Plus Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis shows the roadway segment capacity analysis for Existing Plus Project traffic conditions based on existing lane geometry. As shown in Table 5.14-8, the study area roadway segments are projected to operate within acceptable Levels of Service for Existing Plus Project traffic conditions. Therefore, the proposed project is forecast to result in no significant traffic impacts at the TIA study area roadway segments for Existing Plus Project traffic conditions. Table 5.14-9, Existing Plus Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service shows intersection delay and Level of Service for Existing Plus Project traffic conditions based on existing lane geometry. As shown in Table 5.14-9, the TIA study area intersections are projected to operate within acceptable Levels of Service during the peak hours for Existing Plus Project traffic conditions. Therefore, the proposed project is forecast to result in no significant traffic impacts at the TIA study intersections for Existing Plus Project traffic conditions. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-57 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Table 5.14-8 Existing Plus Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis Roadway Segment Roadway Section Maximum Daily Capacity Average Daily Traffic Volume Volume to Capacity (V/C) Ratio Level of Service Eisenhower Drive North of Avenue 50 4D 42,600 17,000 0.40 A Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico 4D 42,600 14,100 0.33 A Calle Tampico to Avenida Montezuma 4D 42,600 15,400 0.36 A Avenida Montezuma to Calle Sinaloa 4D 42,600 12,300 0.29 A Avenida Bermudas Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 2D 19,000 11,300 0.59 A Desert Club Drive Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 2U 14,000 6,900 0.49 A Washington Street Avenue 48 to Eisenhower Drive 6D 61,100 51,300 0.84 D Eisenhower Drive to Avenue 50 6D 61,100 39,200 0.64 B Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico 6D 61,100 39,800 0.65 B Calle Tampico to Avenida La Fonda 6D 61,100 16,700 0.27 A Avenida La Fonda to Avenue 52 61) 61,100 14,700 0.24 A Jefferson Street Avenue 50 to Avenue 52 6D 61,100 19,600 0.32 A Avenue 50 Eisenhower Drive to Washington Street 41) 42,600 3,000 0.07 A Washington Street to Jefferson Street 4D 42,600 15,100 0.35 A Calle Tampico Eisenhower Drive to Avenida Bermudas 41) 42,600 10,300 0.24 A Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Drive 4D 42,600 17,900 0.42 A Desert Club Drive to Washington Street 4D 42,600 37,500 0.88 D Avenida La Fonda West of Washington Street 2U 14,000 1,500 0.11 A Calle Sinaloa Eisenhower Drive to Avenida Bermudas 4D 42,600 9,900 0.23 A Avenue 52 Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Drive 4D 42,600 16,500 0.39 A Desert Club Drive to Washington Street 4D 42,600 17,700 0.42 A Washington Street to Jefferson Street 4D 42,600 15,800 0.37 A Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 5, Kunzman Associates Inc., May27, 2016. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-58 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Table 5.14-9 Existing Plus Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service Intersection Jurisdiction' Traffic Contro13 Peak Hour Delay-LOSZ Morning Evening Eisenhower Drive (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #1 LQ TS 17.5-13 23.9-C 24.1-C 10.0-A 20.6-C 30.8-C 19.6-C 8.4-A Calle Tampico (EW) - #2 LQ TS Avenida Montezuma (EW) - #3 LQ AWS Calle Sinaloa (EW) -#4 LQ RBT Avenida Bermudas (NS) at: Calle Tampico (EW) - #5 LQ TS 27.6-C 46.81D 27.2-C 35.5-D Calle Sinaloa/Avenue 52 (EW) - #6 LQ TS Desert Club Drive (NS) at: Calle Tampico (EW) - #7 LQ TS 40.7-D 11.9-B 39.0-D 18.9-B Avenue 52 (EW) - #8 LQ TS Washington Street (NS) at: Avenue 48 (EW) - #9 LQ TS 27.8-C 24.2-C 28.5-C 30.0-C 20.2-C 23.7-C 19.8-B 20.4-C 23.2-C 33.4-C 21.1-C 25.1-C Eisenhower Drive (EW) - #10 LQ TS Avenue 50 (EW) - #11 LQ TS Calle Tampico (EW) - #12 LQ TS Avenida La Fonda (EW) - #13 LQ CSS Avenue 52 (EW) - #14 LQ TS Jefferson Street (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #15 LQ/I TS 34.6-C 7.4-A 34.8-C 8.6-A Avenue 52 (EW) - #16 LQ RBT Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 6, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 2016. Notes: 1. When a right turn lane is designated, the lane can either be striped or unstriped. To function as a right turn lane there must be sufficient width for right turning vehicles to travel outside the through lanes. L = Left; T = Through; R = Right; d = De Facto Right Turn; > = Right Turn Overlap; >> = Free Right Turn 2. Intersection delay and Level of Service (LOS) has been calculated using the following analysis software: Traffix, Version 7.9.0215 and HCS 2010. Per the Highway Capacity Manual, overall average intersection delay and level of service are shown for intersections with traffic signal, all way stop, and roundabout yield controls. For intersections with cross street stop control, the delay and level of service for the worst individual movement (or movements sharing a single lane) are shown. 3. TS = Traffic Signal; AWS = All Way Stop; RBT = Roundabout; CSS = Cross Street Stop Interim Year Without Project Levels of Service Table 5.14-10, Interim Year Without Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis shows the roadway segment capacity analysis for Interim Year Without Project traffic conditions based on existing lane geometry. As shown in Table 5.14-10, the study area roadway segments are projected to operate within acceptable Levels of Service for Interim Year Without Project traffic conditions. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-59 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Table 5.14-10 Interim Year Without Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 7, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 2016. Table 5.14-11, Interim Year Without Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service, shows intersection delay and Level of Service for Interim Year Without Project traffic conditions based on existing lane geometry. As shown in Table 5.14-11, the study area intersections are projected to operate within acceptable Levels of Service during the peak hours for Interim Year Without Project traffic conditions, with the exception of the following study areas: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-60 August 2016 Volume Average to Maximum Daily Capacity Level Roadway Daily Traffic (V/C) of Roadway Segment Section Capacity Volume Ratio Service North of Avenue 50 4D 42,600 18,200 0.43 A Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico 4D 42,600 14,200 0.33 A Eisenhower Calle Tampico to Avenida Drive Montezuma 4D 42,600 12,800 0.30 A Avenida Montezuma to Calle Sinaloa 4D 42,600 9,800 0.23 A Avenida Bermudas Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 2D 19,000 4,100 0.22 A Desert Club Drive Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 2U 1 14,000 2,700 0.19 A Avenue 48 to Eisenhower Drive 6D 61,100 52,500 0.86 D Eisenhower Drive to Avenue 50 6D 61,100 36,400 0.60 A Washington Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico 6D 61,100 31,800 0.52 A Street Calle Tampico to Avenida La Fonda 6D 61,100 21,800 0.36 A Avenida La Fonda to Avenue 52 6D 61,100 19,600 0.32 A Jefferson Street Avenue 50 to Avenue 52 6D 61,100 26,600 0.44 A Eisenhower Dr to Washington St 4D 42,600 4,500 0.11 A Avenue 50 Washington St to Jefferson St 4D 42,600 17,800 0.42 A Eisenhower Drive to Avenida Bermudas 4D 42,600 4,600 0.11 A Calle Tampico Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Dr 4D 42,600 8,100 0.19 A Desert Club Drive to Washington St. 4D 42,600 18,800 0.44 A Avenida La Fonda West of Washington Street 2U 14,000 1,500 0.11 A Eisenhower Dr to Avenida Calle Sinaloa Bermudas 4D 42,600 6,400 0.15 A Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Avenue 52 Dr 4D 42,600 16,900 0.40 A Desert Club Dr to Washington St 4D 42,600 18,100 0.42 A Washington St to Jefferson St 4D 42,600 18,700 0.44 A Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 7, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 2016. Table 5.14-11, Interim Year Without Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service, shows intersection delay and Level of Service for Interim Year Without Project traffic conditions based on existing lane geometry. As shown in Table 5.14-11, the study area intersections are projected to operate within acceptable Levels of Service during the peak hours for Interim Year Without Project traffic conditions, with the exception of the following study areas: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-60 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION • Washington Street/Avenida La Fonda (#13) (LOS E during the evening peak hour); and • Jefferson Streeet/Avenue 52 (#16) (LOS F during both morning and evening peak hours). Table 5.14-11 Interim Year Without Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 8, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 2016. Notes: 1. LQ = City of La Quinta; City of Indio 2. TS = Traffic Signal; AWS = All Way Stop; RBT = Roundabout; CSS = Cross Street Stop 3. Intersection delay and Level of Service (LOS) has been calculated using the following analysis software: Traffix, Version 7.9.0215 and HCS 2010. Per the Highway Capacity Manual, overall average intersection delay and level of service are shown for intersections with traffic signal, all way stop, and roundabout yield controls. For intersections with cross street stop control, the delay and level of service for the worst individual movement (or movements sharing a single lane) are shown. Interim Year With Project Levels of Service Table 5.14-12, Interim Year With Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis, shows the roadway segment capacity analysis for Interim Year With Project traffic conditions based on existing lane geometry. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-61 August 2016 Peak Hour Traffic Delay -LOSS Intersection Jurisdiction' Control' Morning Evening Eisenhower Drive (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #1 LQ TS 18.8-B 22.8-C Calle Tampico (EW) - #2 LQ TS 22.5-C 28.5-C Avenida Montezuma (EW) - #3 LQ AWS 23.2-C 16.2-C Calle Sinaloa (EW) -#4 LQ RBT 8.8-A 6.6-A Avenida Bermudas (NS) at: Calle Tampico (EW) - #5 LQ TS 27.3-C 26.6-C Calle Sinaloa/Avenue 52 (EW) - #6 LQ TS 45.6-D 29.7-C Desert Club Drive (NS) at: Calle Tampico (EW) - #7 LQ TS 35.1-D 32.9-C Avenue 52 (EW) - #8 LQ TS 10.7-B 14.3-B Washington Street (NS) at: Avenue 48 (EW) - #9 LQ TS 29.8-C 19.6-B Eisenhower Drive (EW) - #10 LQ TS 25.5-C 21.8-C Avenue 50 (EW) - #11 LQ TS 32.3-C 27.6-C Calle Tampico (EW) - #12 LQ TS 25.0-C 25.5-C Avenida La Fonda (EW) - #13 LQ CSS 32.5-11) 41.2-E Avenue 52 (EW) - #14 LQ TS 28.0-C 25.4-C Jefferson Street (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #15 LQ/I TS 38.2-11) 38.2-D Avenue 52 (EW) - #16 LQ RBT 53.0-F 144.0-F Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 8, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 2016. Notes: 1. LQ = City of La Quinta; City of Indio 2. TS = Traffic Signal; AWS = All Way Stop; RBT = Roundabout; CSS = Cross Street Stop 3. Intersection delay and Level of Service (LOS) has been calculated using the following analysis software: Traffix, Version 7.9.0215 and HCS 2010. Per the Highway Capacity Manual, overall average intersection delay and level of service are shown for intersections with traffic signal, all way stop, and roundabout yield controls. For intersections with cross street stop control, the delay and level of service for the worst individual movement (or movements sharing a single lane) are shown. Interim Year With Project Levels of Service Table 5.14-12, Interim Year With Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis, shows the roadway segment capacity analysis for Interim Year With Project traffic conditions based on existing lane geometry. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-61 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Table 5.14-12 Interim Year With Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis Roadway Segment Roadway Section Maximum Daily Capacity Average Daily Traffic Volume Volume to Capacity (V/C) Ratio Level of Service Eisenhower Drive North of Avenue 50 4D 42,600 18,400 0.43 A Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico 4D 42,600 14,400 0.34 A Calle Tampico to Avenida Montezuma 4D 42,600 13,300 0.31 A Avenida Montezuma to Calle Sinaloa 4D 42,600 10,200 0.24 A Avenida Bermudas Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 2D 19,000 5,300 0.28 A Desert Club Drive Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 2U 14,000 3,500 0.25 A Washington Street Avenue 48 to Eisenhower Drive 6D 61,100 54,100 0.89 D Eisenhower Drive to Avenue 50 6D 61,100 38,300 0.63 B Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico 6D 61,100 34,300 0.56 A Calle Tampico to Avenida La Fonda 6D 61,100 22,100 0.36 A Avenida La Fonda to Avenue 52 6D 61,100 19,900 0.33 A Jefferson Street Avenue 50 to Avenue 52 6D 61,100 26,600 0.44 A Avenue 50 Eisenhower Drive to Washington Street 4D 42,600 4,500 0.11 A Washington Street to Jefferson Street 4D 42,600 18,500 0.43 A Calle Tampico Eisenhower Drive to Avenida Bermudas 4D 42,600 5,500 0.13 A Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Drive 4D 42,600 9,700 0.23 A Desert Club Drive to Washington Street 4D 42,600 21,900 0.51 A Avenida La Fonda West of Washington Street 2U 14,000 1,500 0.11 A Calle Sinaloa Eisenhower Drive to Avenida Bermudas 4D 42,600 7,000 0.16 A Avenue 52 Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Drive 4D 42,600 17,200 0.40 A Desert Club Drive to Washington Street 4D 42,600 18,400 0.43 A Washington Street to Jefferson Street 4D 42,600 19,300 0.45 A Avenida La Fonda West of Washington Street 2U 14,000 1,500 0.11 A Calle Sinaloa Eisenhower Drive to Avenida Bermudas 4D 42,600 7,000 0.16 A Avenue 52 Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Drive 4D 42,600 17,200 0.40 A Desert Club Drive to Washington Street 4D 42,600 18,400 0.43 A Washington Street to Jefferson Street 4D 42,600 19,300 0.45 A Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 9, Kunzman Associates Inc. May 2016. As shown in Table 5.14-12, the study area roadway segments are projected to operate within acceptable Levels of Service for Interim Year With Project traffic conditions. Therefore, the proposed project is forecast to result in no significant traffic impacts at the study area roadway segments for Interim Year With Project traffic conditions. Table 5.14-13, Interim Year With Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service shows intersection delay and Level of Service for Interim Year With Project traffic conditions based on existing lane geometry. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-62 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Table 5.14-13 Interim Year With Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service Intersection Jurisdiction' Traffic Contro12 Peak Hour Delay -LOSS Morning Evening Eisenhower Drive (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #1 LQ TS 18.8-B 22.7-C Calle Tampico (EW) - #2 LQ TS 22.7-C 28.8-C Avenida Montezuma (EW) - #3 LQ AWS 23.8-C 16.9-C Calle Sinaloa (EW) - #4 LQ RBT 9.1-A 6.9-A Avenida Bermudas (NS) at: Calle Tampico (EW) - #5 LQ TS 27.3-C 26.7-C Calle Sinaloa/Avenue 52 (EW) - #6 LQ TS 45.6-D 30.7-C Desert Club Drive (NS) at: Calle Tampico (EW) - #7 LQ TS 35.5-D 33.6-C Avenue 52 (EW) - #8 LQ TS 11.0-13 15.1-13 Washington Street (NS) at: Avenue 48 (EW) - #9 LQ TS 31.5-C 19.7-13 Eisenhower Drive (EW) - #10 LQ TS 25.7-C 21.9-C Avenue 50 (EW) - #11 LQ TS 32.7-C 27.6-C Calle Tampico (EW) - #12 LQ TS 26.3-C 26.6-C Avenida La Fonda (EW) - #13 LQ CSS 32.8-D 42.9-E With Mitigation LQ CSS 11.5-13 11.2-13 Avenue 52 (EW) - #14 LQ TS 28.2-C 25.4-C Jefferson Street (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #15 LQ/1 TS 37.7-D 38.8-D Avenue 52 (EW) - #16 LQ RBT 55.1-F 149.9-F - With Mitigation LQ RBT 6.7-A 11.2-13 Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 10, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 2016. Notes: 1. LQ= City of La Quinta; I = City of Indio 2. TS = Traffic Signal; AWS = All Way Stop; RBT = Roundabout; CSS = Cross Street Stop 3. Intersection delay and Level of Service (LOS) has been calculated using the following analysis software: Traffix, Version 7.9.0215 and HCS 2010. Per the Highway Capacity Manual, overall average intersection delay and level of service are shown for intersections with traffic signal, all way stop, and roundabout yield controls. For intersections with cross street stop control, the delay and level of service for the worst individual movement (or movements sharing a single lane) are shown. Table 5.14-13 shows that the study area intersections are projected to operate within acceptable levels of service during the peak hours for Interim Year With Project traffic conditions, with the exception of the following Intersections: • Washington Street/Avenida La Fonda (#13) (LOS E during the evening peak hour); and • Jefferson Street/Avenue 52 intersection (#16) (LOS F during the morning and evening peak hours). La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-63 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION As shown in Table 5.14-13, the study area intersections are projected to operate within acceptable levels of service during the peak hours for Interim Year With Project traffic conditions, with implementation of Mitigation Measures CIR-1 and CIR-2. Therefore, the proposed project is forecast to result in no significant traffic impacts at the study intersections for Interim Year With Project traffic conditions, with implementation of Mitigation Measures CIR-1 and CIR-2. General Plan Build -out Without Project Levels of Service Table 5.14-14, General Plan Build -out Without Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis, shows the roadway segment capacity analysis for General Plan Build -out Without Project traffic conditions based on the roadway improvements identified in the General Plan Circulation Element. As shown in Table 5.14-14, the study area roadway segments are projected to operate within acceptable Levels of Service for General Plan Build -out Without Project traffic conditions, with the exception of Washington Street between Avenue 48 and Eisenhower Drive which is forecast to operate at Level of Service E. Table 5.4-14 General Plan Build -out Without Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis Roadway Segment Roadway Section Maximum Daily Capacity p y Average Daily Traffic Volume Volume to Capacity (V/C) Ratio LOS Eisenhower North of Avenue 50 4D 42,600 21,400 0.50 A Drive Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico 4D 42,600 15,300 0.36 A Calle Tampico to Avenida Montezuma 4D 42,600 14,000 0.33 A Avenida Montezuma to Calle Sinaloa 4D 42,600 10,500 0.25 A Avenida Bermudas Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 2D 19,000 4,100 0.22 A Desert Club Drive Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 2U 14,000 2,700 0.19 A Washington Avenue 48 to Eisenhower Dr 6D 61,100 58,300 0.95 E Street Eisenhower Dr to Avenue 50 6D 61,100 41,400 0.68 B Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico 6D 61,100 36,200 0.59 A Calle Tampico to Avenida La Fonda 6D 61,100 27,400 0.45 A Avenida La Fonda to Avenue 52 6D 61,100 25,000 0.41 A Jefferson St Avenue 50 to Avenue 52 6D 61,100 35,100 0.57 A Avenue 50 Eisenhower Dr to Washington St 4D 42,600 4,500 0.11 A Washington St to Jefferson St 4D 42,600 17,800 0.42 A Calle Eisenhower Dr to Avenida Bermudas 4D 42,600 5,300 0.12 A Tampico Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Dr 4D 42,600 10,300 0.24 A Desert Club Dr to Washington St 4D 42,600 19,800 0.46 A La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-64 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Table 5.4-14 General Plan Build -out Without Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis (continued) Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 11, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 2016. Table 5.15-15, General Plan Build -out Without Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service shows intersection delay and levels of service for General Plan Build -out Without Project traffic conditions based on the roadway improvements identified in the General Plan Circulation Element. As shown in Table 5.15-15, the study area intersections are projected to operate within acceptable levels of service during the peak hours for General Plan Build -out Without Project traffic conditions. Table 5.14-15 General Plan Build -out Without Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service Intersection Jurisdiction' Traffic ControlZ Peak Hour Delay -LOS' Morning Volume Eisenhower Drive (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #1 LQ TS Maximum Average to LQ TS 16.4-B Road Avenida Montezuma (EW) - #3 Daily AWS 16.6-C Roadway Segment LQ Daily 8.4-A Capacity LOS Calle Tampico (EW) - #5 LQ ony Capacity Traffic (V/Q LQ TS 41.1-D 25.2-C Desert Club Drive (NS) at: Volume LQ TS 34.1-C 32.0-C Avenue 52 (EW) - #8 LQ TS Ratio 10.5-B Avenida La West of Washington St 2U 14,000 1,500 0.11 A Fonda TS 23.8-C 25.6-C Avenue 50 (EW) - #11 LQ TS Calle Sinaloa Eisenhower Dr to Avenida Bermudas 4D 42,600 6,400 0.15 A Avenue 52 Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Dr 4D 42,600 16,900 0.40 A Desert Club Dr to Washington St 4D 42,600 18,100 0.42 A Washington Street to Jefferson Street 4D 42,600 31,800 0.75 C Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 11, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 2016. Table 5.15-15, General Plan Build -out Without Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service shows intersection delay and levels of service for General Plan Build -out Without Project traffic conditions based on the roadway improvements identified in the General Plan Circulation Element. As shown in Table 5.15-15, the study area intersections are projected to operate within acceptable levels of service during the peak hours for General Plan Build -out Without Project traffic conditions. Table 5.14-15 General Plan Build -out Without Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service Intersection Jurisdiction' Traffic ControlZ Peak Hour Delay -LOS' Morning Evening Eisenhower Drive (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #1 LQ TS 17.4-B 22.9-C Calle Tampico (EW) - #2 LQ TS 16.4-B 20.0-C Avenida Montezuma (EW) - #3 LQ AWS 16.6-C 34.4-D Calle Sinaloa (EW) -#4 LQ RBT 8.4-A 8.7-A Avenida Bermudas (NS) at: Calle Tampico (EW) - #5 LQ TS 24.3-C 22.1-C Calle Sinaloa/Avenue 52 (EW) - #6 LQ TS 41.1-D 25.2-C Desert Club Drive (NS) at: Calle Tampico (EW) - #7 LQ TS 34.1-C 32.0-C Avenue 52 (EW) - #8 LQ TS 8.8-A 10.5-B Washington Street (NS) at: Avenue 48 (EW) - #9 LQ TS 24.2-C 22.6-C Eisenhower Drive (EW) - #10 LQ TS 23.8-C 25.6-C Avenue 50 (EW) - #11 LQ TS 20.2-C 27.0-C La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-65 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Table 5.14-15 General Plan Build -out Without Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service (continued) Intersection Jurisdiction) Traffic Contro12 Peak Hour Delay -LOSS Calle Tampico (EW) - #12 LQ TS 18.1-13 22.0-C Avenida La Fonda (EW) - #13 LQ CSS 11.4-B 12.5-13 Avenue 52 (EW) - #14 LQ TS 48.0-D 34.6-C Jefferson Street (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #15 LQ/I TS 33.8-C 38.0-D Avenue 52 (EW) - #16 LQ RBT 6.5-A 25.8-D Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 12, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 27, 2016. Notes: 1. LQ = La Quinta; City of Indio 2. TS = Traffic Signal; AWS = All Way Stop; RBT = Roundabout; CSS = Cross Street Stop 3. Intersection delay and Level of Service (LOS) has been calculated using the following analysis software: Traffix, Version 7.9.0215 and HCS 2010. Per the Highway Capacity Manual, overall average intersection delay and level of service are shown for intersections with traffic signal, all way stop, and roundabout yield controls. For intersections with cross street stop control, the delay and level of service for the worst individual movement (or movements sharing a single lane) are shown. General Plan Build -out With Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service Table 5.14-16, General Plan Build -out With Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis shows the roadway segment capacity analysis for General Plan Build -out With Project traffic conditions based on the roadway improvements identified in the General Plan Circulation Element. Table 5.14-16 shows that the study area roadway segments are projected to operate within acceptable levels of service for General Plan Build -out With Project traffic conditions, with the exception of the following roadway segments: • Washington Street between Avenue 48 and Eisenhower Drive (LOS F); and • Calle Tampico between Desert Club Drive and Washington Street (LOS E). Table 5.14-16 General Plan Build -out With Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-66 August 2016 Maximum Average Volume to Level Roadway Daily Capacity Roadway Segment Section Daily Traffic (V/Q of Capacity Volume Ratio Service Eisenhower North of Avenue 50 4D 42,600 22,800 0.54 A Drive Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico 4D 42,600 16,800 0.39 A Calle Tampico to Avenida 4D 42,600 16,900 0.40 A Montezuma La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-66 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Table 5.14-16 General Plan Build -out With Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis (continued) Roadway Segment Roadway Section Maximum Daily Capacity Average Daily Traffic Volume Volume to Capacity (V/Q Ratio Level of Service Avenida Montezuma to Calle Sinaloa 4D 42,600 13,000 0.31 A Avenida Bermudas Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 2D 19,000 11,300 0.59 A Desert Club Drive Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 2U 14,000 7,400 0.53 A Washington Avenue 48 to Eisenhower Drive 6D 61,100 68,600 1.12 F Street Eisenhower Drive to Avenue 50 6D 61,100 53,100 0.87 D Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico 6D 61,100 51,900 0.85 D Calle Tampico to Avenida La Fonda 6D 61,100 29,300 0.48 A Avenida La Fonda to Avenue 52 6D 61,100 27,000 0.44 A Jefferson Street Avenue 50 to Avenue 52 6D 61,100 35,200 0.58 A Avenue 50 Eisenhower Drive to Washington St. 4D 42,600 4,600 0.11 A Washington Street to Jefferson St. 4D 42,600 21,900 0.51 A Calle Eisenhower Drive to Avenida Bermudas 4D 42,600 10,800 0.25 A Tampico Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Dr. 4D 42,600 20,500 0.48 A Desert Club Drive to Washington St. 4D 42,600 39,400 0.92 E Avenida La Fonda West of Washington Street 2U 14,000 1,600 0.11 A Calle Sinaloa Eisenhower Drive to Avenida Bermudas 4D 42,600 10,100 0.24 A Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Dr. 4D 42,600 18,600 0.44 A Desert Club Drive to Washington St. 4D 42,600 20,100 0.47 A Avenue 52 Washington Street to Jefferson St. 4D 42,600 35,800 0.84 D Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 13, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 2016. Improvements that would help reduce, but not fully mitigate, the identified roadway segment impacts are discussed in the following section regarding the Village Build -out Plan Circulation Plan. Since the roadway segment impacts would not be fully mitigated, the proposed project is forecast to result in a potentially significant and unavoidable traffic impact at Washington Street between Avenue 48 and Eisenhower Drive and Calle Tampico between Desert Club Drive and Washington Street for General Plan Buildout With Project conditions. As noted in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element: intersections are the ultimate arbiters of roadway capacity, being generally the most constraining and defining portions of roadway network. Based on the acceptable intersection levels of service during the peak hours at the two endpoints of Washington Street/Avenue 48 and Washington Street/Eisenhower Drive, it is likely that La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-67 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION the daily roadway segment capacity will be adequate for Washington Street between Avenue 48 and Eisenhower Drive. Similarly, based on the acceptable intersection levels of service during the peak hours at the two endpoints of Avenida Bermudas/Calle Tampico and Washington Street/Calle Tampico, it is likely that the daily roadway segment capacity will be adequate for Calle Tampico between Desert Club Drive and Washington Street. Table 5.14-17, General Plan Build -out With Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service, shows intersection delay and levels of service for General Plan Build -out With Project traffic conditions based on the roadway improvements identified in the General Plan Circulation Element. Table 5.14-17 shows that the study area intersections are projected to operate within acceptable levels of service during the peak hours for General Plan Build -out With Project traffic conditions, with the exception of: • Eisenhower Drive/Avenida Montezuma intersection (LOS F) The following Mitigation Measures is recommended for General Plan Build -out With Project traffic conditions: CIR-3 Eisenhower Drive/Avenida Montezuma (#3): Convert Eisenhower Drive/Avenida Montezuma from an all -way stop control to a yield -controlled roundabout [this improvement is assumed in the Village Buildout Circulation Plan]. As shown in Table 5.14-17, the study area intersections are projected to operate within acceptable levels of service during the peak hours for General Plan Build -out With Project traffic conditions, with implementation of the currently adopted General Plan Circulation Element improvements and with implementation of Mitigation Measure CIR-3. Therefore, the proposed project is forecast to result in no significant traffic impacts at the study intersections for General Plan Build -out With Project traffic conditions, with implementation of Mitigation Measure CIR-3. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-68 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Table 5.14-17 General Plan Build -out With Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service With Mitigation Intersection Jurisdiction' Peak Hour Traffic Delay-LOS3 Control' Morning Evening Eisenhower Drive (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #1 LQ TS 17.2-B 22.4-C Calle Tampico (EW) - #2 LQ TS 18.2-B 23.2-C Avenida Montezuma (EW) - #3 LQ AWS 18.3-C 55.1-F - With Mitigation LQ RBT 6.6-A 14.1-B Calle Sinaloa (EW) -#4 LQ RBT 10.1-B 13.3-13 Avenida Bermudas (NS) at: Calle Tampico (EW) - #5 LQ TS 26.1-C 25.3-C Calle Sinaloa/Avenue 52 (EW) - #6 LQ TS 46.7-D 31.4-C Desert Club Drive (NS) at: Calle Tampico (EW) - #7 LQ TS 38.6-D 38.0-D Avenue 52 (EW) - #8 LQ TS 10.3-13 14.3-13 Washington Street (NS) at: Avenue 48 (EW) - #9 LQ TS 38.2-D 32.4-C Eisenhower Drive (EW) - #10 LQ TS 25.7-C 27.3-C Avenue 50 (EW) - #11 LQ TS 20.0-C 36.3-D Calle Tampico (EW) - #12 LQ TS 27.0-C 32.6-C Avenida La Fonda (EW) - #13 LQ CSS 11.8-13 12.8-13 Avenue 52 (EW) - #14 LQ TS 52.0-D 38.3-D Jefferson Street (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #15 LQ/1 TS 35.4-D 40.5-D Avenue 52 (EW) - #16 LQ RBT 6.7-A 29.0 - Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 14, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 2016. Notes: 1. LQ = La Quinta; City of Indio 2. TS = Traffic Signal; AWS = All Way Stop; RBT = Roundabout; CSS = Cross Street Stop 3. Intersection delay and Level of Service (LOS) has been calculated using the following analysis software: Traffix, Version 7.9.0215 and HCS 2010. Per the Highway Capacity Manual, overall average intersection delay and level of service are shown for intersections with traffic signal, all way stop, and roundabout yield controls. For intersections with cross street stop control, the delay and level of service for the worst individual movement (or movements sharing a single lane) are shown. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-69 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Exclusive Turn Lane Recommendations The City's traffic study guidelines recommend dual left -turn lanes where the movement is forecast to exceed 250 vehicles per peak hour and exclusive right -turn lanes where the movement is forecast to exceed 200 vehicles per peak hour. Based on these criteria, five circulation improvements are recommended for the current General Plan Circulation Network in addition to the roadway improvements identified in the current General Plan Circulation Element for the project area and vicinity. Note: the recommended improvements for the Avenida Bermudas/Calle Tampico and Desert Club Drive/Calle Tampico intersections may not be feasible in light of existing development at these intersections. The Village Build -out Plan TIA recommended alternative solutions to these two intersections. These are discussed below in the Preferred Village Build -out Circulation Plan section. • Eisenhower Drive/Calle Tampico (#2): Construct one additional westbound left -turn lane to provide dual left -turn lanes. • Avenida Bermudas/Calle Tamoico (#5): Construct one additional westbound left -turn lane. • Desert Club Drive/Calle Tampico (#7): Construct one exclusive northbound right -turn lane and one additional westbound left -turn lane. • Washington Street/Avenue 48 (#9): Construct one exclusive northbound right -turn lane. • Washington Street/Avenue 52 (#14): Construct one additional eastbound left -turn lane to provide triple left -turn lanes. Provide one additional southbound left -turn lane to provide triple left -turn lanes. These recommendations are not required based on the City's level of service and thresholds of significance criteria, but are recommended as mitigation in accordance with the City's traffic study guidelines. It should be noted, exclusive lane improvements may not be feasible at the following intersections due to right-of-way constraints: Eisenhower Drive/Calle Tampico (#2), Eisenhower Drive/Avenida Montezuma (#3), Avenida Bermudas/Calle Tampico (#5), Desert Club Drive/Calle Tampico (#7). Part of the vision for the Village Build -out Plan is to provide enhanced multi -modal facilities that encourage alternative modes of transportation such as walking, bicycling, Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEV) or golf carts, and transit. Slowing vehicle travel speeds while maintaining traffic flow and providing a walkable environment are key elements of a successful and vibrant downtown. Exhibit 5.14-20, Village Build -out Plan Circulation Plan, shows an aerial image of the proposed Circulation Plan. As shown, the proposed Circulation Plan includes modifications to the existing roadway network that would contribute to a multi -modal environment and directly affect the operations of the facilities analyzed in this study. These improvements would resolve the issue regarding the feasibility of creating additional lanes on Calle Tampico and its intersections with La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-70 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Avenida Bermudas and Desert Club Drive. The improvements are listed on the following page in Village Build -out Circulation Plan. Preferred Village Build -out Circulation Plan Part of the City's vision for the Village Build -out Plan is to provide enhanced multi -modal facilities that encourage alternative modes of transportation such as walking, bicycling, golf cart and transit. Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEV) are also part of the plan, however, because these vehicles can go at least 25 miles per hour, they may be driven in the travel lanes rather than in combined bike/golf cart lanes. Slowing vehicle travel speeds while maintaining traffic flow and providing a walkable environment are key elements of a successful and vibrant downtown. Village Buildout Circulation Plan Exhibit 5.4-20, Village Build -out Circulation Plan, shows an aerial image of the proposed Village Buildout Circulation Plan. The exhibit shows that the proposed Circulation Plan includes the following modifications to the existing roadway network that would contribute to a multi -modal environment and directly affect the operations of the facilities analyzed in this study: • Conversion of Eisenhower Drive/Calle Tampico from a traffic signal control to a yield - controlled roundabout; • Conversion of Eisenhower Drive/Avenida Montezuma from an all -way stop control to a yield - controlled roundabout; • Conversion of Avenida Bermudas/Calle Tampico from a traffic signal control to a yield controlled roundabout; • Conversion of Avenida Bermudas/Calle Sinaloa from a traffic signal control to a yield controlled roundabout (with a northbound right -turn bypass lane); • Conversion of Desert Club Drive/Calle Tampico from a traffic signal control to a yield - controlled roundabout; • Modification of Eisenhower Drive between Calle Tampico and Calle Sinaloa from two lanes in each direction to one lane in each direction; • Modification of Calle Tampico between Eisenhower Drive and Desert Club Drive from two lanes in each direction to one lane in each direction; • Modification of Calle Sinaloa between Eisenhower Drive and Avenida Bermudas from two lanes in each direction to one lane in each direction; • Construct a raised median at Washington Street/Avenida La Fonda to restrict the eastbound left -turn movement; • Back -in parking on Calle Tampico between Avenida Bermudas and Desert Club Drive; and • Mid -block crosswalks at four locations along Calle Tampico and one location at Calle Sinaloa/Avenida Villa. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-71 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-72 August 2016 y •� nsiw _ •�iirew� _ ,7.•.. _ �. `rte - v r� .>,i � � �'Vr} .• i�l 4 -tis ! �� i` � \. 1 1 `'•fir] Y _- _ ..���r�rS�F- -- _ Y x,•.. �' •Q,." l_xi(1:I1•l -r1. iT Af -y F' s � fir.::} , I ` •IIF ' i_,�-. C.i_ `o- � A A. - �.,a h.+' . �•YLLE 4A,IG:. T, '� Y'.i •jr� ilk - , �,._ .�L �3 y J f Source: Kunzman Associates, 2016 The Altum Group IF Village Build -Out Circulation Plan La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5.14-20 Legend Roundabavl z/ N.. or Lams tjr .adDam am VV_ ✓ (f Btd M PIWN T6111 Len I I Padethian ClaEaing Tyro dead End (Calla Amlgol Sidewalk] u� Wa1 �ninwl Village Build -Out Circulation Plan La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Environmental Impact Report Exhibit 5.14-20 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-74 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Properly designed modern roundabouts can reduce unnecessary traffic stops, traffic collisions, and vehicle speeds, while improving efficiency and overall multi -modal mobility. Final roundabout design considerations should include turning radius for large vehicles, approach deflection, bicycle/pedestrian accommodations, and right-of-way constraints. The proposed lane modifications would provide additional capacity for enhanced parkway facilities, on -street parking, and/or protected bicycle/NEV facilities. Additional circulation improvements include mini roundabouts along Avenida Bermudas near Calle Estado and additional sidewalk infrastructure throughout the project area. As a whole, the Village Build -out Plan Circulation Plan is likely to result in reduced vehicle speeds and provide the facilities necessary for a multi -modal and vibrant downtown environment within the Village. Exhibit 5.4-21, Example of Multi -Modal Street, shows an example of some of the possible features that could be implemented as a result of the proposed Village Build -out Circulation Plan. Levels of Service With Village Buildout Plan Circulation Plan General Plan Buildout With Project With Village Buildout Circulation Plan Roadway Segments Levels of Service Table 5.14-18, General Buildout With Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis (Village Buildout Circulation Plan), shows the roadway segment capacity analysis for General Plan Buildout With Project traffic conditions based on the Village Buildout Plan Circulation Plan. The table shows that the study area roadway segments are projected to operate within acceptable levels of service for General Plan Buildout With Project With Village Buildout Circulation Plan traffic conditions, with the exception of the following roadway segments: • Washington Street between Avenue 48 and Eisenhower Drive (LOS F); • Calle Tampico between Avenida Bermudas and Desert Club Drive (LOS E); • Calle Tampico between Desert Club Drive and Washington Street (LOS E). As previously noted, the forecast roadway segment deficiency at Washington Street between Avenue 48 and Eisenhower Drive is identified as a special focus area in the City's General Plan Circulation Element. Although roadway widening of Washington Street between Avenue 48 and Eisenhower Drive is not currently identified as a feasible improvement in the General Plan Circulation Element, the following mitigation measure would improve northbound traffic flow at the Washington Street/Avenue 48 intersection and lessen the project impact: CIR 4 Washington Street/Avenue 48 (#9): Construct the northbound approach to consist of three through lanes and one right -turn lane. Remove the pedestrian crosswalk at the north leg of the intersection. This is based on review of pedestrian access points to La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-75 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION surrounding land uses, removal of the crosswalk at the north leg of Washington Street/Avenue 48 is forecast to have no substantial impact on pedestrian circulation. As noted in the City of La Quinta General Plan Circulation Element, "intersections are the ultimate arbiters of roadway capacity, being generally the most constraining and defining portions of roadway network." Based on the acceptable intersection Levels of Service during the peak hours at the two endpoints of Washington Street/Avenue 48 and Washington Street/Eisenhower Drive, it is possible that the daily roadway segment capacity will be adequate for Washington Street between Avenue 48 and Eisenhower Drive. Similarly, based on the acceptable intersection Levels of Service during the peak hours at the two endpoints of Avenida Bermudas/Calle Tampico and Washington Street/Calle Tampico it is possible that the daily roadway segment capacity will be adequate for Calle Tampico between Desert Club Drive and Washington Street. While additional Citywide Transportation Demand Management and Transportation Systems Management measures would effectively reduce traffic and improve operations, the significantly impacted roadway segments may still operate at a deficient level of service. Therefore, the proposed project is forecast to result in a potentially significant and unavoidable traffic impact at the following roadway segments for General Plan Buildout With Project With Village Buildout Circulation Plan conditions: • Washington Street between Avenue 48 and Eisenhower Drive; • Calle Tampico between Avenida Bermudas and Desert Club Drive; and • Calle Tampico between Desert Club Drive and Washington Street. At buildout and with improvements, all project area intersections would operate at LOS D or better with mitigation. However, roadway segments along Calle Tampico between Avenida Bermudas and Washington Street will operate at LOS E. It should be noted, LOS E at Calle Tampico roadway segments between Avenida Bermudas and Washington Street indicates the roadway is forecast to operate within capacity. Although LOS E indicates typically undesirable levels of congestion, the resulting decrease in vehicle speeds could be considered a benefit to other modes of travel. The City is committed to resolving traffic issues by finding solutions for the reduction on the number of vehicles entering the Village. Mitigation Measure CIR-10, provides the City with a means of studying Calle Tampico before roadway segments reach this critical capacity, and provide a mechanism to reduce the number of vehicles through implementation of Parking Demand Management strategies (see discussion in Section 5.10, Land Use, for a discussion of these strategies), and by adopting performance measures for bicycles and pedestrians as a means of quantifying performance for alternative modes of transportation within the Village boundary. With implementation of Mitigation Measure CIR-10, this impact would be less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-76 August 2016 Parking Roundabout -r' 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-78 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Table 5.14-18 General Plan Buildout With Project Roadway Segment Capacity Analysis (Village Buildout Circulation Plan) Roadway Segment Roadway Section Maximum Daily Ca p y acit Average Traffic Daily Volume Volume to (�CCapacity V ) Ratio LOS North of Avenue 50 4D 42,600 24,300 0.57 A Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico 4D 42,600 18,300 0.43 A Eisenhower Drive Calle Tampico to Avenida Montezuma 2D 19,000 16,900 0.89 D Avenida Montezuma to Calle Sinaloa 2D 19,000 13,000 0.68 B Avenida Bermudas Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 2D 19,000 11,300 0.59 A Desert Club Dr. Calle Tampico to Avenue 52 2U 14,000 8,900 0.64 B Avenue 48 to Eisenhower Drive 6D 61,100 68,600 1.12 F Washington Eisenhower Drive to Avenue 50 6D 61,100 53,100 0.87 D Street Avenue 50 to Calle Tampico 6D 61,100 51,900 0.85 D Calle Tampico to Avenida La Fonda 6D 61,100 29,300 0.48 A Avenida La Fonda to Avenue 52 6D 61,100 7,000 0.44 A Jefferson St Avenue 50 to Avenue 52 6D 61,100 35,200 0.58 A Avenue 50 Eisenhower Dr. to Washington St. 4D 42,600 4,600 0.11 A Washington St to Jefferson St. 4D 42,600 21,900 0.51 A Eisenhower Dr. to Avenida Bermudas 2D 19,000 12,300 0.65 B Calle Tampico Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Dr. 2D 19,000 19,000 1.00 E Desert Club Dr to Washington St. 4D 42,600 39,400 0.92 E Avenida La Fonda West of Washington St. 2U 14,000 1,600 0.11 A Calle Sinaloa Eisenhower Dr. to Avenida Bermudas 4D 42,600 10,100 0.24 A Avenida Bermudas to Desert Club Dr. 2D 19,000 17,100 0.90 D Avenue 52 Desert Club Dr. to Washington St. 4D 42,600 20,100 0.47 A Washington St to Jefferson St. 4D 42,600 35,800 0.84 D Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 15, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 2016. General Plan Buildout With Project With Village Buildout Circulation Plan Intersection Delay and Levels of Service Table 5.14-19, General Plan Buildout With Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service (Village Buildout Circulation Plan), shows intersection delay and levels of service for General Plan Buildout With Project traffic conditions based on the Village Buildout Circulation Plan. The table shows that the study area intersections are projected to operate within acceptable levels of service during the peak hours for General Plan Buildout With Project With Village Buildout Circulation Plan traffic conditions. Therefore, the proposed project is forecast to result in no significant traffic impacts at the study intersections under this scenario. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-79 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Table 5.14-19 General Plan Buildout With Project Intersection Delay and Level of Service (Village Buildout Circulation Plan) Intersection Jurisdiction) Traffic Control' Peak Hour Delay -LOSS Morning Evening Eisenhower Drive (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #1 LQ TS 17.2-13 22.4-C Calle Tampico (EW) - #2 LQ RBT 10.4-13 10.7-13 Avenida Montezuma (EW) - #3 LQ RBT 6.6-A 14.1-13 Calle Sinaloa (EW) - #4 LQ RBT 10.1-13 13.3-13 Avenida Bermudas (NS) at: Calle Tampico (EW) - #5 LQ RBT 5.7-A 10.7-B Calle Sinaloa/Avenue 52 (EW) - #6 LQ RBT 5.9-A 23.2-C Desert Club Drive (NS) at: Calle Tampico (EW) - #7 LQ RBT 10.4-13 34.7-D Avenue 52 (EW) - #8 LQ TS 10.3-13 14.3-13 Washington Street (NS) at: Avenue 48 (EW) - #9 LQ TS 38.2-D 32.4-C Eisenhower Drive (EW) - #10 LQ TS 25.7-C 27.3-C Avenue 50 (EW) - #11 LQ TS 20.0-C 36.3-D Calle Tampico (EW) - #12 LQ TS 27.0-C 32.6-C Avenida La Fonda (EW) - #13 LQ CSS 11.8-13 12.8-13 Avenue 52 (EW) - #14 LQ TS 52.0-D 38.3-D Jefferson Street (NS) at: Avenue 50 (EW) - #15 LQ/1 TS 35.4-D 40.5-D Avenue 52 (EW) - #16 LQ RBT 6.7-A 29.0-D Source: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Study Intersections Table 16, Kunzman Associates Inc., May 2016. Notes: 1. LQ = City of La Quinta; I = City of Indio 2. TS = Traffic Signal; AWS = All Way Stop; RBT = Roundabout; CSS = Cross Street Stop 3. Intersection delay and Level of Service (LOS) has been calculated using the following analysis software: Traffix, Version 7.9.0215. Per the Highway Capacity Manual, overall average intersection delay and level of service are shown for intersections with traffic signal, all way stop, and roundabout yield controls. For intersections with cross street stop control, the delay and level of service for the worst individual movement (or movements sharing a single lane) are shown. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-80 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Conclusion Project Trip Generation At Interim Year (2021) conditions, the proposed project is forecast to generate a total of approximately 5,688 daily vehicle trips, 212 trips of which will occur during the morning peak hour and 352 trips of which will occur during the evening peak hour. At General Plan Build -out, the proposed project is forecast to generate a total of approximately 37,964 daily vehicle trips, 1,381 trips of which will occur during the morning peak hour and 2,329 trips of which will occur during the evening peak hour. Proposed road and intersection improvements will ensure that operations in the project area are at LOS D or better except for the roadway segments between Avenida Bermudas and Washington Street. For these segments, the City is committed to improve the level of service as the Village builds out by conducting periodic monitoring to identify when vehicle trips measurably decrease level of service (Mitigation Measure CIR-10), and implement appropriate Parking Demand Management strategies that will result in fewer vehicles along Calle Tampico. These may include but are not limited to identifying remote parking lots and providing shuttle service, and adopting performance measures for bicycles and pedestrians as a means of quantifying performance for alternative modes of transportation within the Village boundary. All Mitigation Measures are identified within this analysis are included in Section 5.14.6 below. C. Air Traffic Patterns Given the distance from the Village area to the nearest airports, five (5) miles to Bermuda Dunes Airport and more than seven (7) miles to the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport, implementation of the Village Build -out Plan would not impact air traffic patterns. As discussed in the Initial Study, there will be no impact and no further analysis is necessary. d -e. Hazards due to Design Features & Emergency Access The Village Build -out Plan does not include any specific projects, but instead, analyzes build -out of the Village based on desired residential and commercial development and redevelopment. Future projects are expected to be constructed on the Village's existing street grid, which generally provides safe, 90 degree intersections and appropriate line of sight. All future projects within The Village Build- out Plan project area will be required to undergo discretionary review with the City to ensure that design features are consistent with General Plan Policies and City Ordinances. The City's review of the project will analyze design features and project access to ensure that they are consistent with City guidelines and do not pose hazards to the public. Therefore, once a proposed project within the Village has been approved by the City, no hazards due to design or access would be present and impacts would be less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-81 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION f. Adopted Policies, Plans, or Programs for Alternative Transportation The goal of the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan is to create a mixed-use community with commercial, recreation, and residential amenities within walking distance of each other. Mitigation implemented towards the redesigning of roadways and intersections with roundabouts, worm medians, turning lanes and striping would reduce vehicle speeds thereby improving public safety and accessibility to the Village. Policy CIR 1.12 of the General Plan sets specific programs to achieve this goal. Along with mixed-use development, a large component of the policy entails creating pedestrian and bicycle connections to connect streets throughout the City. Ultimately, Policy LU 7.5 recommends developing a Master Non -motorized Transportation Plan for the Village. The Village Build -out Plan is designed to meet the goals and policies identified in Section 5.14.3 to enhance the circulation network in the project area to efficiently, safely and economically move people, vehicles and goods into and around the Village. Ways in which the Build -out Plan meets goals and policies include: establishing traffic -calming features in the project area (Policy Circ -1.10, Program Cir -1-10j) such as roundabouts and back -in parking; reduce vehicular traffic and reduce vehicle miles traveled through the development of a land use pattern that maximizes interactions between adjacent or nearby land uses (Policy Cir -1.12); and develop and encourage the use of continuous and convenient pedestrian and bicycle routes and multi -use paths (Policy Cir -2.3). Exhibit 5.14-20, Village Build -out Circulation Plan, shows the proposed circulation improvements (both roadway and sidewalk) in the project area. Exhibit 5.14-21, Example of a Multi -modal Street, shows how enhanced sidewalks, bike/golf cart, and roundabouts work. This plan would maximize alternative transportation, complete the pedestrian network (enhanced sidewalks) and enhance the bike/golf cart lanes, and ensure that travel lanes accommodate NEVs, all providing connectivity throughout the Build -out Plan project area. The improvements would not only connect the areas just south of Calle Tampico, but would improve access to the existing Village from the residential development to the south. The Village Build -out Plan will improve alternative transportation connectivity within the Village, which is consistent with General Plan Goals and Policies, so impacts would be less than significant. 5.14.5 Cumulative Impacts New and existing development within the Village will have the potential to create cumulative impacts if not given proper mitigation to address transportation and circulation within the Village Build -out Plan. Recommended design improvements to roadway segment and intersection infrastructure as identified in Mitigation Measures CIR-1 through CIR-10 would ensure acceptable level of service along with safe accessibility for automobile, pedestrian, bicyclist, golf cart, and NEV traffic to -and -from the Village Build -out project area. Furthermore, the parking reduction design as discussed in Section 5.9, La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-82 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Land Use, will situate parking in such a way that it does not cumulatively impede upon, or obstruct circulation outside of the Build -out plan project area. Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will allow the continued development of the Village with a mix of residential, retail, commercial office and professional office uses to create an urban environment at a human scale, with fewer motor vehicles, so that people feel comfortable walking, riding a bicycle, or driving an electric golf cart to and around the Village. Motor vehicles will still feature prominently in the Village however, it is the City's intent in providing the infrastructure for alternative modes of transportation, that the reliance on them can be reduced and thus increase the level of service on local streets within the project area. A major concern in the Village is the amount and location of available parking for visitors. As documented in The City of La Quinta Village District Parking Study (Carl Walker, Inc. 2006), significant parking surplus existed in almost all study areas within the Village. However, most of the surplus parking in the Village was designated as private with restricted use, which at that time, approximately 20.8 percent (or 606 spaces) were designated as public parking and with the remaining 79.2 percent (or 2,313 spaces) of parking supply restricted to private parking. To alleviate this unused potential, the study recommended that the City adopt a methodology within the study (Section 3.03) pertinent to, 1) monitoring parking utilization, 2) applying parking demand ratios in a shared parking model, and 3) improving the utilization of nearby parking supplies. Furthermore, fulfillment of a quantification analysis for each individual project within the Build -out Plan should be performed in order to determine project's cumulative impact in creating deficit parking and to provide additional measures to counteract this deficit. These recommendations have been incorporated into the Parking Demand Management strategies identified in this Section. 5.14.6 Mitigation Measures The following mitigation measures are recommended for Interim Year With Project traffic conditions: CIR-1 Washington Street/Avenida La Fonda (#13): Construct a raised "worm" median to allow northbound left -turns and restrict eastbound left -turns. CIR-2 Jefferson Street/Avenue 52 (#16): Reconstruct the existing roundabout to provide two circulating lanes and two entry lanes at the northbound and southbound approaches. The new two lane roundabout should be constructed with consideration for conversion to a three lane roundabout by General Plan Buildout conditions. The following Mitigation Measures are recommended for General Plan Buildout With Project traffic conditions: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-83 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION CIR-3 Eisenhower Drive/Avenida Montezuma (#3): Convert Eisenhower Drive/Avenida Montezuma from an all -way stop control to a yield -controlled roundabout [this improvement is assumed in the Village Buildout Circulation Plan]. CIR-4 Washington Street/Avenue 48 (#9): Construct the northbound approach to consist of three through lanes and one right -turn lane. Remove the pedestrian crosswalk at the north leg of the intersection. Based on the City's traffic study guidelines, the following circulation improvements are recommended in addition to the roadway improvements identified in the current General Plan Circulation Element: CIR-5 Eisenhower Drive / Calle Tampico (#2): Construct one additional westbound left -turn lane to provide dual left -turn lanes. CIR-6 Avenida Bermudas/Calle Tampico (#5): Construct one additional westbound left -turn lane. The TIA identified an alternative to construct a roundabout rather than adding an additional lane in the event that the improvement identified in the General Plan Circulation Element is infeasible. This will be determined by the Design anclDevelopment Director/City Engineer. CIR-7 Desert Club Drive / Calle Tampico (#7): Construct one exclusive northbound right -turn lane and one additional westbound left -turn lane. The TIA identified an alternative to construct a roundabout rather than adding an additional lane in the event that the improvement identified in the General Plan Circulation Element is infeasible. This will be determined by the Design and Development Director/City Engineer. CIR-8 Washington Street/Avenue 48 (#9): Construct one exclusive northbound right -turn lane. CIR-9 Washington Street/Avenue 52 (#14): Construct one additional eastbound left -turn lane to provide triple left -turn lanes. Provide one additional southbound left -turn lane to provide triple left -turn lanes. The following mitigation measure is related specifically to intersections that have been identified to operate at LOS E along Calle Tampico CIR-10 For road segments along Calle Tampico between Avenida Bermudas and Washington Street, the City shall conduct periodic monitoring of actual conditions in the Village (timing to be determined as development begins to occur in the project area, and will review its Parking Demand Management strategies (directly correlated with traffic volumes) to determine additional strategies that can be employed related to remote parking and shuttle service, additional pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and education programs. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-84 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting A. The TIA identified a number of intersection improvements to be made either in Interim Year 2021, or traffic analysis showed the need for improvements to a number of intersections, the timing of which would be determined as development occurs in the Village Build -out Plan project area. (CIR-1 through CIR-9) Responsible Parties: Design and Development Director/City Engineer. B. The City shall conduct periodic monitoring of conditions in the Village to review the effectiveness of adopted Parking Demand Management strategies. (CIR-10) Responsible Parties: Design and Development Director/City Engineer. 5.14.7 Level of Significance after Mitigation Implementation of Mitigation Measures CIR-1 through CIR-10 and adherence to goals, policies and programs as identified above all new development within the project area will assist in minimizing cumulative impacts in regard to traffic and circulation and are expected to be less than significant with the exception of roadway segments: • Washington Street between Avenue 48 and Eisenhower Drive; • Calle Tampico between Avenida Bermudas and Desert Club Drive; and • Calle Tampico between Desert Club Drive and Washington Street. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-85 August 2016 5.14 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 5.14-86 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS 5.15 Utilities and Service Systems 5.15.1 Introduction This Section describes the existing setting for utility systems and potential effects from implementation of the Village Build -out Plan. These include: Water Supply, Wastewater Collection and Treatment, Storm Drains, Solid Waste Disposal and Diversion, and Electricity and Natural Gas. These potential effects are evaluated and considered, and where appropriate, included with mitigation. Resources used to prepare this section are included in Chapter 9, References. 5.15.2 Existing Conditions Wastewater Collection and Treatment Sanitary sewer collection and treatment facilities are provided by the Coachella Valley Water District within most of the City. There are two CVWD wastewater treatment plants that serve La Quinta. Water Reclamation Plant 7 (WRP-7) is located at Madison Street and Avenue 38, northeast of the City in Indio. It provides wastewater treatment for development in the City of La Quinta north of Miles Avenue. The capacity of WRP-7 is 5 million gallons per day (mgd), and the plant processes approximately 2.8 to 3.0 mgd. It has the capacity to expand to 7.5 mgd. Currently there is sufficient excess capacity; therefore, although expansion capacity exists, no such plans are proposed at this time. The Mid -Valley Water Reclamation Plant (WRP-4), located in Thermal (11.8 miles southeast of the Village), serves the area in the City of La Quinta located south of Miles Avenue including the Village Build -out Plan project area. The WRP-4 has a current capacity of just under 10 mgd, and processes approximately 5 mgd per day. Given the excess capacity, there are currently no plans for expansion at the Mid -Valley plant. WRP-4 does not include tertiary treatment facilities. CVWD indicates that such facilities could be located at this plant in the future should demand warrant. CVWD sewer lines utilize a system of trunk lines ranging in diameter from 4 to 24 inches. There are 18 -inch diameter force mains in Washington Street, Jefferson Street, Madison Street, and Avenues 50, 58 and 60. Existing sewer line infrastructure are currently in place in the project area. Water Supply The Coachella Valley including the project area is located within the Colorado River Watershed, which drains into the Salton Trough. The desert climate is characteristically dry, with an average of less than 4 inches of annual rainfall. Therefore, water is an especially limited and valuable resource. To satisfy La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-1 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS the demand for water from residential, commercial and agricultural users, the Coachella Valley supplements local groundwater supplies with water from northern California and the Colorado River. Northern California water is conveyed to southern California via the California aqueduct. Over 23 million people and 755,000 acres of agricultural lands are served by the system. Supplies to southern California vary annually based on weather. Water supplies are more available in wet years and decrease during dry years. California is entitled to 4.4 million acre feet of Colorado River water per year, as set forth in a 1964 Supreme Court ruling. Although Colorado River water is one of the Coachella Valley's main source of water, it is considered poor in quality. In addition to the high levels of total dissolved solids, this water has been cited as contributing to the salinity problems in the Valley. This supply is used mainly for irrigation. Whitewater River Subbasin The Coachella Valley is underlain by a substantial subsurface groundwater basin. Over millions of years, conditions created by the Valley's geology and water runoff from surrounding mountains have resulted in water collecting in the aquifer, which generally extends from the Whitewater River in the northwest to the Salton Sea in the southeast. The aquifer is naturally divided by fault barriers into subbasins, which are further divided into subareas. The Whitewater River Subbasin (also known as the "Indio Subbasin") encompasses approximately 400 square miles and underlies most of the Coachella Valley. It is bounded on the north by Garnet Hill Fault, on the east by the San Andreas Fault, and on the south by the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains. It is estimated that the Subbasin contains approximately 28.9 million acre-feet of groundwater within the first 1,000 feet below the ground surface. There are five subareas within the Whitewater River Subbasin: the Palm Springs subarea, the Garnet Hill subarea, the Thermal subarea, the Thousand Palms subarea, and the Oasis subarea. The City, Village and Sphere are underlain by the Thermal subarea, which is part of the Lower Whitewater River Subbasin. Thermal Subarea The division between the upper and lower portions of the Whitewater River subbasin is located in the Thermal subarea. The juncture of the Thermal Subarea with the Palm Springs Subarea, which lies to the west, occurs near Cathedral City. Based on measurement data for the Palm Springs and Thermal subareas, there appears to be no distinction between the water tables of the upper and lower subarea, except for the "hinge effect" of the Thermal subarea at Point Happy. Groundwater levels have generally remained stable, although more recently, increased pumpage has lowered groundwater levels in the lower Whitewater River subbasin. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-2 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS Conditions in most of the Thermal Subarea are confined or semi -confined, with movement caused by differences in piezometric (pressure) levels. Although unconfined or free water conditions occur within alluvial fans such as those that at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, an area of reduced permeability, or "aquitard" occurs between the two aquifers. Reduced permeability is created where fine grained materials such as sand and gravel lenses occur. This aquitard forms the boundary between the upper and lower aquifers in the Thermal subarea. The upper and aquifer zones of the Thermal subarea have similar lithology, although the lower aquifer is thought to be thicker and to receive more subsurface inflow than the upper aquifer. The lower aquifer is considered the most important source of groundwater in the Coachella Valley Groundwater basin. It serves the area easterly of Washington Street. In this portion of the subarea, the top of the water table ranges from 300 to 600 feet below the surface. Although undetermined, the aquifer is believed to be at least 500 feet thick and some estimates suggest that it may be over 1000 feet thick. While the aquifer contains vast water supplies, water table levels vary based on demand. Underlying the lower subarea is an aquitard that is generally 100 to 200 feet thick, and up to as much as 500 feet thick in some areas along the edge of the Salton Sea CVWD provides domestic and irrigation water services to the City, including the project area. The CVWD domestic water system is comprised of a system of 30 pressure zones in which water supplies are drawn from 100 active wells from water is distributed to users. CVWD uses pressure booster pump and regulating valve stations to transfer water between pressures zones. The City is served by the following pressure zones: Valley, Upper, Middle and Lower La Quinta, and Lake Cahuilla. CVWD has nearly 75 enclosed storage reservoirs. Domestic water is distributed via a system of pipelines ranging in size from 4 -inches to 36 -inches in diameter, located in public street rights of way. In 2005, CVWD provided 40.3 billion gallons of water to 240,573 residents in its service area. CVWD has 21 active wells within the City and Sphere of Influence. In addition, there are 6 booster stations and 10 planned or existing reservoirs in the City and its Sphere. Each reservoir has between 250,000 and 12 million gallons of capacity, and a total storage capacity for all reservoirs of 44.6 million gallons. Total extraction exceeds the total amount recharged into the Lower Whitewater River Subbasin, resulting in a condition known as overdraft. This condition has resulted in a decline in groundwater levels in many portions of the eastern Valley from La Quinta to the Salton Sea. Concerns related to these conditions include potential degradation of water quality and land subsidence. Solid Waste The City has a franchise agreement with Burrtec Waste and Recycling Services, LLC (Burrtec) for the provision of solid waste disposal in the City. Non -hazardous household, commercial and most non- hazardous industrial solid waste collected is taken to the Edom Hill Transfer Station (EHTS) in La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-3 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS Cathedral City, or the Coachella Valley Transfer Station (CVTS), located at the site of the closed Coachella Landfill north of the 1-10 freeway, east of Dillon Road. From either site, waste is generally transported to the Lamb Canyon regional landfill, which is owned by the County of Riverside. The Integrated Waste Management Act (AB 939), passed in 1989, and as adopted by the City requires California cities and counties to meet a variety of recycling and reuse goals, including diverting at least 50 percent of their solid waste stream through new and ongoing waste and recycling programs. The City also adopted Assembly Bill 341, which was signed into legislation by the Governor of California, and requires mandatory commercial recycling for businesses that generate four or more cubic yards of waste weekly. The law also applies to apartments and condominium complexes of five or more units, regardless of the amount of waste generated. The new law became effective on July 1, 2012. Burrtec assists the City with its solid waste recycling efforts. These include residential and commercial collection of paper, plastic, glass and aluminum; and greenwaste that can be composted and sold as soil amendment products. The City is currently required to implement new and maintain ongoing waste and recycling programs and recycle at least 50 percent of its solid waste stream, and is meeting that goal. Special programs, including the collection and disposal of household hazardous waste, construction and demolition materials, and medical "sharps" (syringes and needles), as well as commercial recycling, are also administered by Burrtec. Burrtec also has green waste recycling capabilities. Brush and other greenwaste from La Quinta are taken to the Edom Hill Compost facility (EHC) or the Coachella Valley Compost facility (CVC), located at the site of the closed Coachella Landfill north of the 1-10 freeway, east of Dillon Road. According to CalRecycle, the State's integrated waste management agency, solid waste generated by construction and demolition sites may account for as much as 22 percent of the solid waste stream. Prior to the issuance of grading permits, the City refers developers to Burrtec environmental staff to develop a recycling plan to recycle at least 50 percent of these materials. According to the 2014 CalRecycle Electronic Annual Report for the City of La Quinta (Appendix G), residential development in the City generated approximately 15,031 pounds per day of solid waste. In contrast, the Village Build -out Plan project area currently generates approximately 4,382 pounds per day of solid waste, or approximately 3,470 pounds per day of residential waste and 912 pounds per day of commercial waste. Electric Power Imperial Irrigation District (IID) provides electric power in the City and the Sphere of Influence. IID delivers electric service by means of power generation and contractual agreements. There are six IID substations within or near the City of La Quinta, as follows: • North La Quinta Substation — northwest corner of Adams Street and Westward Ho; • La Quinta Substation — southwest corner of Avenue 48 and Jefferson Street; La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-4 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS • Jefferson Substation — Jefferson Street at the northeast corner of Avenue 52; • Marshall Substation — northeast corner of Washington Street and Avenida Ultimo; • Avenue 58 Substation — northwest corner of Avenue 58 and Monroe Street; • Thermal Substation — south of Airport Boulevard and east of Highway 111. Substations are gauged at 92 or 161 kilovolts (kV), and from there electrical power is decreased for distribution to customers at 12.47 kV. There are eight proposed substations in the eastern Coachella Valley. Of these, one was discussed in the General Plan update between the easterly Sphere boundaries and the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport. This substation is still in the planning stages. Other proposed substation locations include: • Near Avenue 54 and Monroe Street; • At Van Buren Street and Avenue 64; • Near Avenue 60 and Monroe Street; • At Avenue 58 and Harrison Street; • At Madison Ave and Avenue 64; • At 54 and Harrison Street; • At Avenue 62 and Harrison Street. The City's Municipal Code (Chapter 13.24.110) requires that all utilities in new residential districts and subdivisions be undergrounded. 5.15.3 Applicable Goals and Policies GOAL UTL-1 Domestic water utilities and services which adequately serve the existing and long-term needs of the City. Policy UTL-1.1 The City should coordinate with the Coachella Valley Water District to assure that sufficient water supplies are available to sustain current and future development. Program UTL-1.1a: Work with the Coachella Valley Water District to expand the availability of tertiary treated water, non -potable canal water, and encourage its use for landscape irrigation purposes, especially for irrigating golf courses and other large landscaped areas. Policy UTL-1.2 The City should encourage the conservation of water. Program UTL-1.2a: Develop programs, both in conjunction with the Coachella Valley Water District and independently, to allow and encourage the retrofitting of existing water -intensive appliances and irrigation systems in existing development. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-5 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS Program UTL-1.2b: City and private sector development projects shall implement water efficient landscaping plans which meet or exceed current water efficiency standards. Policy UTL-1.3 New development shall reduce its projected water consumption rates over "business -as -usual" consumption rates. Policy UTL-1.4 Review and amend Development Standards to require that all new development demonstrate a reduction of domestic water consumption equivalent to, or exceeding, the CalGreen Tier One standards in effect at the time of development. rrna► liT►-2 Sanitary sewer facilities and services which adequately serve the existing and long-term needs of the City. Policy UTL-2.1 All new development should be required to connect to sanitary sewer service. Program UTL-2.1a: Review and amend Development Standards and Review Procedures to ensure coordination with the Coachella Valley Water District and assurance that existing sewer service along with the extension of sewer service is capable of meeting the needs of current and forecasted development. 5.15.4 Project Impact Analysis Thresholds of Significance The following standards and criteria have been drawn from Appendix G Environmental Checklist Form of the CEQA Guidelines to assess the significance of potential impacts to utilities and service systems that may result from the adoption and implementation development of the La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan. Impacts would be considered significant if implementation of the General Plan would result in the following: a. Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board. b. Require or result in the construction of new or wastewater drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects. c. Require or result in the construction of new stormwater drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects. d. Not have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or new expanded entitlements are needed. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-6 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS e. Fail to result in a determination by the wastewater treatment 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. Not be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs. g. Fail to comply with federal, state, and local statues and regulations related to solid waste. h. Lead to the inefficient, wasteful and unnecessary consumption of energy resources. a. Exceed Wastewater Treatment Requirements of the Applicable RWQCB Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will facilitate development that will increase demand on existing wastewater collection and treatment facilities. It is assumed that domestic wastewater flows are equivalent to the potable water demand projections, which averaged approximately 69.3 gallons per capita per day (gpcd) in 2010 and are projected to average 55.44 gpcd at build out for entire City including the Village Build -out Plan project area. As discussed in Section 5.8 Hydrology and Water Quality, the Village Build -out Plan would generate a water demand of approximately 202,273 gpcd for residential and 76,779 gpcd for commercial uses. As a fraction of the total water demand and as shown in Table 5.15-1, Project Wastewater Generation, wastewater generated would be approximately 175,890 gpcd for residential uses and 71,021 gpcd for commercial uses. The amount of wastewater from residential and commercial uses was derived from 85 percent of potable water ending up as discharged wastewater (i.e., toilets, sinks, showers, etc.) and the remaining 15 percent ending up as irrigated landscape. As discussed in the General Plan EIR, the total projected wastewater generated for all land uses in 2010 for the City and its Sphere of Influence was approximately 4.1 million gpcd. In comparison, the total amount of wastewater projected to be generated for the Village Build -out Plan project area would be approximately 279,052 gpcd or 6.81 percent of the overall 4.1 million generated by the City and Sphere. It is likely that over time, as the City and CVWD's requirements for water conservation become more stringent, the gpcd of wastewater could be reduced. Although this level of wastewater generation is substantial, it will not exceed the combined treatment capacity at the CVWD treatment plants serving the City and project area. Further, CVWD continues to plan for expansion as needed. As future development occurs within the Build -out Plan, the City and its Sphere, existing facilities may need to be expanded to build out capacity to accommodate wastewater generation. Development within the Village Build -out Plan project area is projected to occur over a 20 -year period coinciding with the General Plan 2035 build -out scenario. In maintaining consistency with General Plan Policy UTL-2.1, all new development will be required to connect to sanitary services by tying -into existing sewer lines currently in place within the Village. To address new development within the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-7 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS Village and the La Quinta City and Sphere, the City and CVWD will have the opportunity to plan for and strategize options that may include construction of new sewer collection facilities and increase treatment capacity in order to address the long-term needs of the City and in maintaining consistency with General Plan Goal UTL-2 and Program UTL-2.1a. Nevertheless, growth trends will need to be monitored to ensure that adequate wastewater treatment facilities are provided to serve the project area. As future development connects to existing sewer facilities within the Village, they will nonetheless continue to be subject to connection fees. Mitigation Measures UTL-1 and UTL-2 will ensure that impacts in regard to wastewater generation, services, treatment and infrastructure are reduced to less than significant levels. b. Require or result in the construction or extension of wastewater drainage facilities The project area is already served by sewer lines that are adequate for existing development. The proposed Village Build -out Plan calls for an additional 1,230 residences and up to an additional 799,786 square feet of non-residential uses (retail, restaurants, commercial and professional office, etc.). The increase in density and the intensification of land uses allowed under this plan through increased building height and development of mixed use projects, will increase the amount of wastewater generated in the project area. Development in the project area will occur over a 20 -year period coinciding with the General Plan 2035 build -out scenario. All new development and redevelopment proposals within the Village Build- out Plan area will be required to connect to sanitary services by tying -into existing sewer lines currently in place within the Village. Growth trends will need to be monitored to ensure that adequate wastewater treatment facilities are provided to serve the project, Implementation of Mitigation Measure UTL-1 will ensure that coordination between the City and CVWD is continued with regard to future development within the project area. Lastly, the requirement of all projects within the project area to pay a connection fee, will financially assist towards the future expansion and upgrading of wastewater drainage infrastructure and thus would ensure that impacts in this regard will be reduced to less than significant. C. Require or result in the construction or extension of stormwater drainage facilities Please see Section 5.8, Hydrology and Water Quality for a discussion of the storm drain system in the project area. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-8 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS d. Water Supply in Project Vicinity A Water Supply Study (WSS) was prepared for the La Quinta General Plan that provided estimates of existing water demands generated within the La Quinta City and Sphere, and projected future water demands that will be generated at build out of the proposed General Plan. Development within the Village Build -out Plan project area was included in the WSS analysis as part of the City's overall development with an estimated 8,180 units projected for the entire City. It should be noted that the WSS prepared for the General Plan was programmatic, and that future qualifying individual development projects within the City may be subject to preparation of project -level WSSs as warranted. Future development projects within the Village Build -out Plan will not require a WSS, as it is unlikely that new projects would rise to the level in requiring a WSS. For example, the threshold for a residential development project is 500 dwelling units. Existing Water Demands Table 5.15-1, Estimate of Existing Water Service Demands, shows the estimated water demands that were generated for the La Quinta City and Sphere, included the Village Build -out Plan project area, at intensities that would result in X less commercial square footage and Y fewer dwelling units. As shown in Table 5.15-1, the existing water demands for the La Quinta City and Sphere are estimated to be 32,496 acre-feet per year, consisting of 31,227 acre-feet within City limits and 1,268 acre-feet within the Sphere of Influence. Existing water demands for the La Quinta City and Sphere are comprised of 3.9 percent within the Sphere and 96.1 percent within City limits. Water Demands at Build -Out (2035) Table 5.15-2, Estimate of Water Service Demands at Build Out, shows the projected water demand for land uses in the City, the Village Build -out Plan, the Sphere and the entire La Quinta City and Sphere at build out, assuming that new development adheres to water efficiency building standards and existing development continues to generate business as usual water demands. Table 5.15-2, Estimate of Water Service Demands at Build Out, shows that the build out water demands for the La Quinta City Limits including the Village Build -out Plan project area are estimated to be 38,098 acre-feet per year, consisting of 37,783 acre-feet within City limits and 314.85 acre-feet within the Village Build -out Plan project area. In comparison, the Build -out Plan would result in approximately 240.65 acre-feet of domestic water demand over the amount estimated for the entire City limits. This represents an increase of approximately 0.83 percent. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-9 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS Table 5.15-1 Estimate of Existing Water Service Demands Source: Table III -51, "La Quinta General Plan Water Resources Projections," Appendix A to Water Supply Study, prepared by Terra Nova Planning & Research Inc., January 2011. Proposed Development At build out development within the La Quinta City and Sphere is expected to consume 54,467 acre- feet of water per year, which represents an increase in water demand of approximately 21,971 acre- feet compared to water demands generated by existing development. Table 5.15-3, Estimate of Water Service Demands from New Development below shows the projected water demand that will be generated from new development set forth in the 2035 General Plan. Table 5.15-3 shows that 70 percent of the new water demand will be generated by new development within the Sphere, and 30 percent will be generated by new development within City Limits. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-10 August 2016 Landscaping Potable Total Demand Daily Demand Land Use Designation (ac-ft/yr) (ac-ft/yr) (ac-ft/yr) (mgd) La Quinta City Limits Low Density Residential 6,482.65 4,091.66 10,574.31 9.44 Medium/High Density Residential 1,157.40 521.42 1,678.83 1.5 Commercial 311.87 1,007.61 1,319.48 1.18 Major Community Facilities 295.91 111.99 407.9 0.36 Open Space - Natural N/A N/A - - Open Space- Recreation 16,465.48 N/A 16,465.48 14.7 Streets, Sidewalks, Medians 781.47 N/A 781.47 0.7 Total 25,494.78 5,732.69 31,227.46 27.88 Sphere of Influence Low Density Residential 857.11 157.31 1,014.42 0.91 Medium/High Density Residential 0.18 - 0.18 0 Commercial 17.71 43.03 60.74 0.05 MaiorCommunityFacilities 30.65 13.26 43.9 0.04 Streets, Sidewalks, Medians 149.17 N/A 149.17 0.13 Total 1,054.82 213.6 1,268.42 1.13 Planning Area Summary Low Density Residential 7,339.76 4,248.97 11,588.73 10.35 Medium/High Density Residential 1,157.58 521.42 1,679.01 1.5 Commercial/Industrial 329.58 1,050.64 1,380.22 1.23 MaiorCommunityFacilities 326.56 125.25 451.81 0.4 Open Space - Natural N/A N/A - - Open Space- Recreation 16,465.48 N/A 16,465.48 14.7 Streets, Sidewalks, Medians 930.64 N/A 930.64 0.83 Total 26,549.59 5,946.28 32,495.88 29.01 Source: Table III -51, "La Quinta General Plan Water Resources Projections," Appendix A to Water Supply Study, prepared by Terra Nova Planning & Research Inc., January 2011. Proposed Development At build out development within the La Quinta City and Sphere is expected to consume 54,467 acre- feet of water per year, which represents an increase in water demand of approximately 21,971 acre- feet compared to water demands generated by existing development. Table 5.15-3, Estimate of Water Service Demands from New Development below shows the projected water demand that will be generated from new development set forth in the 2035 General Plan. Table 5.15-3 shows that 70 percent of the new water demand will be generated by new development within the Sphere, and 30 percent will be generated by new development within City Limits. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-10 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS Table 5.15-2 Estimate of Water Service Demands at Build Out Source: Table III -512, "Lo Quinta General Plan Water Resources Projections," Appendix A to Water Supply Assessment, prepared by Terra Nova Planning & Research Inc., January 2011. Notes: 1. Assuming that 15 percent of total water demand is allocated for landscaping. Table 5.15-3 Estimate of Water Service Demands from New Development La Quinta Landscaping Potable Total Demand Daily Demand Land Use Designation (ac-ft/yr) (ac-ft/yr) (ac-ft/yr) (mgd) La Quinta City Limits 11,828.75 13,586.98 115,415.73 113.76 Low Density Residential 9,294.22 4,881.63 14,175.85 12.66 Medium/High-Density 1,502.34 1,016.81 2,519.15 2.25 Commercial 496.72 1,360.39 1,857.11 1.66 Major Community Facilities 476.80 149.64 626.44 0.56 Open Space - Natural N/A N/A N/A N/A Open Space- Recreation 17,681.77 N/A 17,681.77 15.79 Streets, Sidewalks, Medians 922.39 N/A 922.39 0.82 Total 30,374.25 7,408.47 37,782.72 33.73 Village Build -out Plan Area (current conditions) Residential - 284 DU 3.09 45.50 48.59 0.04 Commercial - 151,925 sq. ft. 3.09 16.34 19.43 0.01 Streets, Sidewalks, Medians 3.09 N/A 3.09 0.00 Total 9.27 61.84 74.20 0.05 Village Build -out Plan (build -out conditions) Residential - 1,230 DU 10.611 197.02 207.63 0.19 Commercial - 799,786 sq. ft. 10.611 86.00 96.61 0.09 Streets, Sidewalks, Medians 10.611 N/A 10.61 0.01 Total 31.83 283.02 314.85 0.29 Source: Table III -512, "Lo Quinta General Plan Water Resources Projections," Appendix A to Water Supply Assessment, prepared by Terra Nova Planning & Research Inc., January 2011. Notes: 1. Assuming that 15 percent of total water demand is allocated for landscaping. Table 5.15-3 Estimate of Water Service Demands from New Development La Quinta Landscaping (ac-ft/yr) Potable (ac-ft/yr) Total Demand (ac-ft/yr) Daily Demand (mgd) City Limits 4,879.47 1,675.78 6,555.26 5.85 Sphere of Influence 11,828.75 13,586.98 115,415.73 113.76 Planning Area Summary 16,708.23 5,262.77 21,970.99 19.61 Source: Table 111-53, Terra Nova/La Quinta General Plan EIR, July 2012. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-11 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS Water Demand Consistency CVWD's 2010 UWMP accounts for new growth and development that is expected to occur within the La Quinta City limits, including the Village Build -out Plan project area (Note: CVWD will implemented its revised 2015 UWMP, which was adopted in June of 2016). Section 3.3 of the General Plan WSS describes that the water demand projections for the La Quinta General Plan Update are relative to the water demand projections set forth in the CVWD UWMP. The average gallon per capita day (gpcd) water demand for the CVWD Service Area was approximately 482 gpcd for 2010 and is projected to be 423 gpcd for 2035. In comparison, the 2010 gcpd for the La Quinta City and Sphere was approximately 473 gcpd and is projected to be 361 gpcd in 2035. In contrast, the water demand estimates for the La Quinta City and Sphere for 2010 and 2035 are 2 percent and 15 percent more efficient compared to the CVWD estimates. Of note is that future residential uses in the Village Build -out area will be multi -family projects developed in an urban setting where traditional yards would not occur. Landscaping represents a large percentage of water usage in traditional residential subdivisions that would not be realized in the 1,230 new residential units proposed in the project area. Therefore, water demand projections as proposed under the 2035 General Plan are consistent with the water demand estimates utilized by CVWD. Water Use Targets CVWD's 2015 UWMP Water Use Targets show that a 20 percent water use reduction target for CVWD would amount to approximately 485 gpcd based on the updated 10 -year baseline water use (606 gpcd), which is approximately 12 GPCD higher than the water use target determined in the 2010 UWMP. Furthermore, the revised 2015 interim water use target of 545 GPCD is 13 GPCD higher than the target determined in the 2010 UWMP. Nonetheless, CVWD has opted to keep the lower water use targets as determined in the 2010 UWMP for future compliance. In comparison, the La Quinta City and Sphere, including the Village Build -out Plan project area, with a projected demand of 361 gpcd by 2035 would fall well below CVWD's target of 485 gcpd under the 10 -year baseline. Impacts to Water Supply Resources As described, CVWD serves as the water provider for the City of La Quinta. Water supplies that serve the existing La Quinta City and Sphere are derived from groundwater in storage and imported Colorado River water and State Water Project (SWP) exchange water. All urban water demands are currently met through groundwater supplies. New water demands generated by proposed development in the Village Build -out Plan project area will be met through a combination of groundwater, imported supplies, and reclaimed water. CVWD expects to have sufficient water supplies to serve development in the La Quinta City and Sphere, including the Village Build -out Plan project area, through 2035 and beyond by utilizing a La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-12 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS combination of water supply sources and treating surface water supplies to potable quality standards. CVWD projects that, in 2035, the urban water demand will be supplied by a total of 242,700 acre-feet per year consisting of 53 percent groundwater, 20 percent treated Colorado River Water, 22 percent untreated Colorado River Water, and 4 percent desalinated agricultural drain water. CVWD's current UWMP provides long term water supply/demand planning in an effort to protect water resources, preserve water quality, and assure that water supplies are available to meet demands. CVWD's UWMP evaluated water demands relative to supplies for the period between 2010 and 2035 under normal, single, and multiple dry year conditions. The current UWMP finds that with groundwater supplies, imported water supplies, water conservation programs, and recharge activity water supplies are sufficient to meet demands during normal, single, and multiple dry year conditions through 2035. As shown in Table 5.15-2, implementation of the Village Build -out Plan would result in an increase in the demand for water of approximately 314.85 acre-feet by 2035. This new demand will be met by groundwater, imported Colorado River water, desalinated agricultural drain water, or a combination thereof. As described above, CVWD has accounted for this increased water demand in conjunction with all other projected water demands within the service area. CVWD has determined that through utilization of a combination of water supply sources including the need to provide expanded availability of tertiary treated water, and coordination by the City in implementing CVWD UWMP regulations, sufficient water supplies will therefore be available to meet demands in 2035. As such, the level of additional water supplies needed to meet demands generated by development within the Village Build -out Plan will not substantially deplete groundwater reserves or interfere with groundwater recharge. The City of La Quinta relies on CVWD to manage and supply water resources. Nonetheless, the City is committed to promoting water conservation and achieving water savings, protecting groundwater reserves, and preserving groundwater quality. In the Village Build -out Plan, water conservation can be achieved through retrofitting of existing water -intensive appliances with the installation of water efficient appliances, implementation of water efficient landscaping plans for all new development, the use of new technology, and advanced irrigation control for outdoor landscaping. Mitigation Measures UTL-4 through UTL-11 will ensure that impacts in regard to water supply are reduced to less than significant. e. Wastewater services in project vicinity Please refer to discussion 5.15.4.a, above. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-13 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS f —g. Landfill Capacity and Solid Waste Burrtec is the franchise solid waste hauler for the City of La Quinta and most other cities in the Coachella Valley. Burrtec operates solid waste transfer stations; one at Edom Hill in the City of Cathedral City, and one at the closed Coachella Landfill in Riverside County north of the 1-10 freeway and east of Dillon Road. Burrtec, also operates compost facilities at both these locations, taking care of both solid waste transfer and greenwaste recycling for the City of La Quinta. Burrtec hauls solid waste to the County of Riverside Lamb Canyon landfill located between the cities of Beaumont and San Jacinto at 16411 Lamb Canyon Road (State Route 79). The landfill is permitted to receive a maximum of 5,000 tons per day. As of January 2015, the landfill had a total remaining capacity of approximately 19,242,950 cubic yards or 14.4 million tons, if it is assumed that one cubic yard of solid waste compacted in place in a landfill is 0.75 tons (CDRRR, 2016). It is projected that current landfill capacity will extend to 2029, at a minimum. The Lamb Canyon landfill has potential for expansion. Greenwaste, foodwaste and some liquid wastes, including grease trap liquids and graywater, are taken to the Coachella Valley Compost facility where they are treated as feedstock that is blended into windrows that are treated and turned until it is ready to be cured and sold as soil amendment products. In the future, solid waste from the Village Build -out Plan project area may also be transported to other regional landfills, including the Badlands facility, located in Moreno Valley, the EI Sobrante landfill in Corona, or the Salton City landfill in north Imperial County west of Highway 86. Both of the Riverside County landfills currently have excess capacity, and the Salton City landfill was recently permitted (2015) to provide additional capacity. Development facilitated by the General Plan is expected to result in approximately 53,103 dwelling units. Of these, approximately 46,866 will be single-family units, and approximately 6,236 will be multi -family units. Up to approximately 12,364,631 square feet of commercial development, which is assumed to be primarily retail uses, and 611,408 square feet of industrial development will also be constructed. The Village, under existing conditions without implementation of the Build -out Plan, would provide approximately 284 new dwelling units and 151,925 square feet of commercial uses, which would account for approximately 0.5 percent, and 1.2 percent of total buildout in the City respectively. In comparison, implementation of the Build -out Plan would provide 1,230 new dwelling units and 799,786 square feet of commercial uses, which would account for approximately 2.3 percent, and 6.4 percent of total buildout in the City respectively. Although smaller in comparison to the General Plan area, the Village Build -out Plan will contribute to an increased generation of solid waste. The three existing landfills have long-term capacity sufficient for expected solid waste generated from the Village Build -out Plan, and Burrtec plans on providing service to accommodate future development for the Village Build -out Plan project area. As the City La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-14 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS continues to implement existing and initiate new recycling efforts, it is expected that impacts to regional landfills will decrease. Based on solid waste generation factors provided by Calrecycle applied to land uses in the General Plan including the Village Build -out Plan project area, an estimate of solid waste was generated. Table 5.15-4, Solid Waste Generation at Build Out, compares the amount of waste generated for the La Quinta City and Sphere with the Village Build -out Plan under existing conditions and through implementation. Table 5.15-4 Solid Waste Generation at Build Out Source: Altum Group July, 2016; La Quinta 2035General Plan EIR, 2013. CalRecycle: Commercial Sector: Estimated Solid Waste Generation Rates. Notes: 1. Solid Waste: Residential — 4.7 Ib/day/person x 2.6 persons per household = 12.22 Ib/day. 2. Solid Waste: Non-residential — Specialty Commercial per the TIA consisting of a variety of retail, restaurant and office uses - .006 Ib/sqft/day. 3. Projected amount of dwelling units and commercial area for Village Build -out Planning Area under current conditions as included in the La Quinta Planning Area analysis. 4. Village Build -out Plan under current conditions originally included in the La Quinta Planning Area analysis for the 2035 General Plan EIR. 5. Includes amount of potential dwelling units and commercial square footage exceeding current conditions threshold without implementation. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-15 August 2016 La Quinta Planning Area (City, Sphere) Land Use Type Generation Rate Unit Type Dwelling Units/sq. ft. Pounds/ Day Annual Tons of Solid Waste Single Family 2.0400 tons/unit/year 46,866 DU 530,000 95,607 Multi -Family 1.1700 tons/unit/year 6,236 DU 40,000 7,296 Retail/Commercial 0.0024 tons/sf/year 12,364,631 sq. ft. 162,000 29,675 Industrial 0.0108 tons/sf/year 611,408 sq. ft. 36,000 6,603 Total 768,000 139,181 Village Build -out Plan (current conditions) Land Use Type Generation Rate Unit Type Dwelling Units/sq. ft. Pounds/ Day Annual Tons of Solid Waste Residential' 12.22 pounds/day 284 DU 3,470 633 Retail/CommercialZ 0.006 pounds/sq. ft./day 151,925 sq. ft. 912 166 Total 4,382 799 Total with La Quinta Planning Area 139,1813 Village Build -out Plan (with implementation) Land Use Type Generation Rate Unit Type Dwelling Units/sq. ft. Pounds/ Day Annual Tons of Solid Waste Residential' 12.22 pounds/day 1,230 DU 15,030 2,743 Retail/CommercialZ 0.006 pounds/sq. ft./day 799,786 sq. ft. 4,800 876 Total 19,830 3,619 Total with La Quintal Planning Area 142,0004 Source: Altum Group July, 2016; La Quinta 2035General Plan EIR, 2013. CalRecycle: Commercial Sector: Estimated Solid Waste Generation Rates. Notes: 1. Solid Waste: Residential — 4.7 Ib/day/person x 2.6 persons per household = 12.22 Ib/day. 2. Solid Waste: Non-residential — Specialty Commercial per the TIA consisting of a variety of retail, restaurant and office uses - .006 Ib/sqft/day. 3. Projected amount of dwelling units and commercial area for Village Build -out Planning Area under current conditions as included in the La Quinta Planning Area analysis. 4. Village Build -out Plan under current conditions originally included in the La Quinta Planning Area analysis for the 2035 General Plan EIR. 5. Includes amount of potential dwelling units and commercial square footage exceeding current conditions threshold without implementation. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-15 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS Based on the level of development without implementation of the Village Build -out Plan, the La Quinta City and Sphere would generate approximately 139,181 tons of solid waste per year. Development of the La Quinta City and Sphere with implementation of the Build -out Plan would generate approximately 142,000 tons of solid waste per year or a 2 percent increase of an additional 2,819 tons per year. On a daily basis, this equates to 389 tons of solid waste. Actual waste generation will depend on future levels of development, and participation in stream flow diversion programs. There are no land uses within the Village Build -out Plan project area that are expected to generate large quantities of solid waste or create conditions where substantial hazardous wastes are produced. Development facilitated by the Village Build -out Plan will nonetheless result in increased volumes of solid waste generation as a fraction of the entire amount of solid waste generated for the City and Sphere. Therefore, the City and Burrtec will need to continue to monitor these levels to ensure that disposal of solid waste generated is performed in a cost-effective and in a safe operative mode. Mitigation Measures USS -11 and USS -12 will ensure that impacts in regard to landfill capacity and solid waste are reduced to less than significant levels. h. The effects of the project on energy resources Based on historical use data for the City of La Quinta and its Sphere provided by IID for the General Plan 2035 Program EIR, it was estimated that residential development consumes approximately 16,798 kilowatt hours per year (kwh/year). Estimated electricity usage rates by land use type are shown in Table 5.15-1, Estimated Electricity Usage Rates. Table 5.15-5, Estimated Electricity Usage Rates Land Use Annual Usage Rate Residential 16,798 Kilowatt-hour/unit/year Commercial 57.88 Kilowatt-hour/square feet/year Industrial 57.88 Kilowatt-hour/square feet/year Source: La Quinta 2035General Plan EIR, 2013. Estimates of annual electrical demand for General Plan build out were based on the annual usage rates as shown above. These rates were applied to the proposed General Plan land uses at build out, which would result in electrical consumption of approximately 1,645,145,600 kwh/year. Broken down, single family residential uses consume approximately 791,924,912 kwh/year, 101,224,748 kwh/year for Multi -family uses, 716,607,636 kwh/year for commercial uses and 35,388,304 kwh/year for industrial uses. The Village Build -out Plan project area is considered within the overall consumption rates established in the Program EIR. On its own and at build -out of the Village Build -out Plan, consumption of electricity in the project area would be roughly 14,291,614 kilowatt kwh/year for commercial uses La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-16 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS and 20,661,540 kwh/year for residential uses with an overall total of 34,953,154 kwh/year or roughly 2.1 percent of the electrical demand under the General Plan. Such an increase will likely create a need for additional electrical power supply sources. IID provided a response to the Notice of Preparation of the Draft EIR for the proposed project (see Appendix A for this and other letters received in response to the NOP). IID advised that additional electrical infrastructure and/or modification thereof may be needed to service the project. To alleviate this impact, Mitigation Measure UTL-3 requires that the City create a tracking log to be used by the City and utility providers (wet and dry utilities) including IID, to address all new development projects proposed in the Village Build -out Plan project area. The tracking log would be evaluated by the City and utility providers on a project -by -project basis by inputting the type and size of the proposed use and determining whether or not the project in review, would contribute to a significant impact or cumulative impact thereby requiring the expansion of utility infrastructure including electrical infrastructure improvements (i.e., substation, transformers, etc.). Therefore, this type of protocol, as implemented through UTL-3, would reduce impacts in regard to electrical services to less than significant. 5.15.5 Cumulative Impacts Implementation of the Village Build -out Plan will have the potential to create cumulative impacts if not given proper mitigation to address Utilities and Service Systems. Mitigation Measures UTL-1 and UTL-2 will assure sewer service connection and adequacy of facilities are cooperatively addressed between City of La Quinta and CVWD. Mitigation Measures UTL-3 will provide a mechanism for the City and CVWD to keep track on the number of residential units and square footage of non-residential development to determine when wet and dry infrastructure should be upgraded to continue to provide adequate service to the project area. Mitigation Measures UTL-4 and UTL-11 will assure that methods of water conservation measures in compliance with CVWD's current UWMP (or most recent UWMP in place), are incorporated into new individual development projects to lower water usage for landscaping and to comply with Section 17921.3 of the Health and Safety Code, Title 20, California Administrative Code Section 1601(b), and applicable sections of Title 24 of the State Code. Mitigation Measure UTL-11 and UTL-12 will assure that the City refers project developers to Burrtec in order to prepare a construction and demolition solid waste recycling plan by diverting a minimum of 50 percent of C&D debris from the waste stream. Therefore, with implementation of Mitigation Measures UTL-1 through UTL-12 and with adherence to goals, policies and programs as identified in the City's General Plan, all new development within the Village Build -out Plan project area will assist in minimizing cumulative impacts in regard to Utilities and Service Systems and are expected to be less than significant. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-17 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS 5.15.6 Mitigations Measures UTL-1 All new development within the Village Build -out Plan shall be connected to sanitary sewer service. UTL -2 The City shall ensure coordination with the Coachella Valley Water District to assure that existing and future extended sanitary sewer facilities are adequate to meet the needs of existing and expected future development of the Village Build -out Plan. UTL-3 The City shall create a tracking log for development projects in the project area that identifies the existing wet and dry infrastructure in the project area, then on a project -by - project basis, inputs the type and size of proposed uses, the potable water required, wastewater generated and electrical demand generated. The City will work with CVWD, IID SCG and others to determine when upgrades to infrastructure will be required. UTL-4 All project development within the Village Build -out Plan shall coordinate and cooperate with CVWD to ensure City-wide compliance with current State Senate Bill x7-7 to reduce per capita urban water use by 36 percent for year 2016, and 20 percent reduction by year 2020, including landscaping conversion programs and the smart irrigation control program; expanding the availability of sustainable water supplies such as tertiary treated water, and encouraging its use for landscape irrigation purposes, especially for irrigating golf courses and other large landscaped areas. UTL -5 The City shall review and amend its Development Standards if necessary to require that all new development within the Village Build -out Plan demonstrate a reduction of domestic water consumption equivalent to the CalGreen Tier One standards in effect at the time of development. UTL -6 The City shall continue to implement its Water Efficient Landscape ordinance by requiring that development projects within the Village Build -out Plan implement water efficient landscaping plans to meet or exceed water efficiency standards. UTL -7 In conjunction with the Coachella Valley Water District as well as independently, the City shall develop programs to allow and encourage the retrofitting of existing water intensive appliances and irrigation systems for existing development within the Village Build -out Plan. UTL -8 The City shall continue to require that all new developments within the Village Build -out Plan use water conserving appliances and fixtures, including low -flush toilets and low -flow showerheads and faucets, as well as the application of water -conserving technologies in conformance with Section 17921.3 of the Health and Safety Code, Title 20, California Administrative Code Section 1601(b), and applicable sections of Title 24 of the State Code. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-18 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS UTL -9 All new and existing commercial establishments within the Village Build -out Plan shall be required to comply with State mandates established under AB 341 to reduce the amount of packaging and potential waste associated with product manufacturing and sales. UTL - 10 The City shall continue to refer project developers to Burrtec for development of construction and demolition solid waste recycling plans in order to divert a minimum of 50% of C&D debris from the waste stream. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting A. Prior to Certificate of Occupancy, each project development with between the City, and utility providers shall fulfill implementation of mitigation in regard to sanitary sewer service connections, water conservation methods and electrical power supply. (UTL-1 and UTL-2) Responsible Parties: Project Developer, City Engineer, Coachella Valley Water District. B. Immediately upon approval of the Village Build -out Plan, the City will create a tracking log to track projects and required utility infrastructure upgrades on order to identify when upgrades will be required. (UTL-3) Responsible Parties: Project Developer, Coachella Valley Water District, Imperial Irrigation District, City of La Quinta. C. During Site Plan review the Planning Department shall review all projects plans to ensure compliance with all of the latest applicable regulations for the reduction in the consumption of potable water. (UTL-4 through UTL-8) Responsible Parties: Project Developer, Planning Division. D. During grading, construction and other development activities, development projects shall fulfill mitigation in regard to solid waste reduction in compliance with AB 341. (UTL-9) Responsible Parties: Building Department and Code Enforcement. E. Operational activities for each commercial and residential establishment shall fulfill mitigation in regard to solid waste reduction in compliance with AB 341. (UTL-10) Responsible Parties: Landowner, Burrtec, Code Enforcement. 5.15.7 Level of Significance after Mitigation With implementation of Mitigation Measure USS -1 through USS -11, impacts in regard to Utilities and Service Systems will have a less than significant impact in the Village Build -out Plan project area. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-19 August 2016 5.15 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 5.15-20 August 2016 6 OTHER REQUIRED CEQA SECTIONS Chapter 6 Other CEQA Required Sections 6.1 Introduction Chapter 5, Environmental Impact Analysis evaluated the impacts of, and where necessary, proposed mitigation measures for, the impacts associated with the implementation of the proposed Village Build -out Plan on a project -specific and cumulative basis. State CEQA Guidelines Section 15126 identifies other subjects pertaining to the consideration and discussion of environmental impacts that an EIR is also required to address. CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.2 sets forth the content requirements for the discussion of these other subjects, including: • Significant Environmental Effects Which Cannot be Avoided if the Proposed Project is Implemented —Section 15126(b); • Significant Irreversible Environmental Changes Which Would be Caused by the Proposed Project Should it be Implemented — Section 15126(c); and, • Growth -Inducing Impact of the Proposed Project — Section 15126(d). In compliance with the aforementioned State CEQA Guidelines requirements, a discussion of each of the above subjects follows. 6.2 Significant Environmental Effects Which Cannot be Avoided State CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.2(b) requires this subject to be addressed when impacts that cannot be alleviated without imposing an alternative design, their implications and the reasons why the project is being proposed, notwithstanding their effects should be described. 6.2.1 Air Quality Violate an Air Quality Standard The worst-case summer or winter VOC, NOx, CO, SO2, PM10, and PM2.5 emissions created from the Village Build -out Plan long-term operations were calculated and summarized below in Table 6-1, Unmitigated Regional Operational Pollutant Emissions. The data provided in Table 6-1 shows that for the on-going operations activities within the project area, VOC, NOx, and CO emissions would exceed the SCAQMD regional thresholds of significance. Therefore, mitigation is required to reduce impacts from VOC, NOx, and CO emissions. Mitigation Measures AQ -1 through AQ -9 are provided in Section 5.2, Air Quality, to reduce the operational emissions. These measures include: providing sidewalks to encourage pedestrian access to reduce the use of automobiles, compliance with the latest California Building Code Energy La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 6-1 August 2016 6 OTHER REQUIRED CEQA SECTIONS Efficiency Standards, Energy Star appliances, etc. The mitigated operational regional criteria pollutant emissions are shown in Table 6-2, Mitigated Regional Operational Pollutant Emissions. Table 6-1 Unmitigated Regional Operational Pollutant Emissions Activity Pollutant Emissions (pounds/day) VOC NOx CO SO2 PM10 PM2.5 Area Sources' 62.93 1.17 101.32 0.01 2.05 2.03 Energy Usage 0.55 4.76 2.23 0.03 0.38 0.38 Mobile Sources' 74.20 130.27 759.37 1.94 123.84 35.29 Total Emissions 137.68 136.20 862.92 1.97 126.27 37.70 SCAQMD Thresholds 75 100 550 150 150 55 Exceeds Threshold? Yes Yes Yes No No No Source: Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 10, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 Notes: 1. Area sources consist of emissions from consumer products, architectural coatings, and landscaping equipment. 2. Energy usage consists of emissions from generation of electricity and on-site natural gas usage. 3. Mobile sources consist of emissions from vehicles and road dust. Table 6-2 shows that even with incorporation of mitigation measures, VOC, NOx, and CO would still exceed the regional emissions thresholds (for detailed notes, see CalEEMod output in Appendix B of the Air Quality and Global Climate Change Analysis). Table 6-2 Mitigated Regional Operational Pollutant Emissions Activity Pollutant Emissions (pounds/day) vOC NOx CO SO2 PM10 PM2.5 Area Sources' 53.62 1.17 101.32 0.01 2.05 2.03 Energy Usage 0.44 3.78 1.77 0.02 0.30 0.30 Mobile Sources3 69.69 97.95 651.33 1.19 73.28 21.00 Total Emissions 123.75 102.90 754.42 1.22 75.63 23.34 SCAQM D Thresholds 75 100 550 150 150 55 Exceeds Threshold? Yes Yes Yes No No No Source: Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 11, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 Notes: 1. Area sources consist of emissions from consumer products, architectural coatings, and landscaping equipment. 2. Energy usage consists of emissions from generation of electricity and on-site natural gas usage. 3. Mobile sources consist of emissions from vehicles and road dust. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 6-2 August 2016 6 OTHER REQUIRED CEQA SECTIONS The Air Quality analysis found that at the local level, within the project area, construction -related air quality impacts could be reduced to less than significant levels, through compliance with SCAQMD rules for the control of fugitive dust, for the maintenance of construction vehicles and equipment, and for the use of reduced VOC paints and solvents. However, despite implementation of mitigation measures for air emissions, significant unavoidable impacts will occur in regard to the project's contribution to the exceedance of air pollutant concentration (Criterion 1) and in exceedance with regional emissions thresholds during long term operation of land uses in the Village. The La Quinta General Plan 2035 Program EIR evaluated future conditions 20 years from now as the City builds out with a variety of residential and non-residential land uses. The Program EIR evaluated this scenario which included the Village area, although the Build -out Plan identifies a greater density and intensity of land uses in the Village than what was evaluated in the Program EIR. Still, the findings of the Program EIR were that air pollutants would be generated from a variety of activities, including vehicle emissions, and daily operations. Emissions generated by vehicular traffic are projected to be the greatest source of air pollutants. The use of natural gas and electricity for operation of existing and new buildings and structures will also result in the emission of air pollutants. A Statement of Overriding Considerations was adopted with the adoption of the General Plan. Overriding considerations 3 and 4 specifically apply to Air Quality as follows: 3. Impacts identified as significant are generally associated with normal growth and progress and would be much more severe without implementation of the proposed General Plan update. 4. Implementation of the General Plan update will further enhance the quality of life necessary to attract new residents, businesses and visitors to the City, and will generally promote increased investment and development, jobs associated with new and/or expanded construction, and the provision of public services and facilities for a larger population base, and further economic development within the City. The La Quinta Village EIR will utilize these overriding conditions from the General Plan EIR. 6.2.2 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, in exceedance of SCAQMD 2035 target Table 6-3, Year 2035 Mitigated Project -Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions, shows that the Village Build -out Plan's mitigated year 2035 emissions would be approximately 27,111.64 metric tons of CO2e per year; and at 5.3 MTCO2e/SP/year, would exceed the SCAQMD 2035 Target Service Population threshold of 3.0 MTCO2e/SP/year for projects. The mitigated emissions values also incorporate the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association (CAPCOA) - based land use and La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 6-3 August 2016 6 OTHER REQUIRED CEQA SECTIONS site enhancement measures available for reductions through CalEEMod. However, as the mitigated project -related GHG emissions exceed the Tier 4 SCAQMD 2035 target service population threshold, impacts from project -related GHGs through implementation of the Village Build -out Plan are considered to be significant and unavoidable. Table 6-3 Year 2035 Mitigated Project -Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions Category Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Metric Tons/Year) Bio -0O2 NonBio-CO2 CO2 CH4 N20 CO2e Area Sources' 0.00 886.86 886.86 0.03 0.02 892.47 Energy Usage 0.00 9,612.40 9,612.40 0.22 0.06 9,634.36 Mobile Sources3 0.00 13,884.16 13,884.16 0.40 0.00 13,892.59 Solid Waste 142.68 0.00 142.68 8.43 0.00 319.76 Waters 35.38 1,364.21 1,399.59 3.66 0.09 1,505.15 Construction 0.00 866.03 866.03 0.06 0.00 867.31 Total Emissions 178.06 26,613.66 26,791.72 12.81 0.16 27,111.64 Project's Percent Reduction from 2005 Baseline 54.2 Percent Reduction Threshold from GHG Reduction Plan 28 Meets Reduction Threshold? Yes Emissions per Service Population (SP) 5.3 SCAQMD 2035 Target Service Population (SP) Threshold (MTCO2e/SP/year) 3.0 Exceeds Threshold? Yes Source: Inc. Air Quality & Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, Table 14, Kunzman Associates, March 2016 Notes: 1. Area sources consist of GHG emissions from consumer products, architectural coatings, and landscape equipment. 2. Energy usage consist of GHG emissions from electricity and natural gas usage. 3. Mobile sources consist of GHG emissions from vehicles. 4. Solid waste includes the CO2 and CH4 emissions created from the solid waste placed in landfills. 5. Water includes GHG emissions from electricity used for transport of water and processing of wastewater. 6. Construction GHG emissions CO2e based on opening year emissions and a 30 year amortization rate. Despite implementation of mitigation measures, significant unavoidable impacts will occur in regard to the development of future projects and the generation of GHG in exceedance of SCAQMD 2035 Target Service Population thresholds. The Village Build -out Plan is being proposed at the density of 1,230 new dwelling units, and up to 799,786 square feet of non-residential use in an effort to provide residents and visitors with an urban neighborhood where living, shopping and working can be interconnected, and where people visiting the Village can park and walk, thus reducing dependence on automobiles and reducing emissions of La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 6-4 August 2016 6 OTHER REQUIRED CEQA SECTIONS GHG. The City believes that the Village Build -out Plan will ultimately result in a reduction in air emissions and generation of greenhouse gasses as shown in Section 5.6, Greenhouse Gasses. With mitigation and compliance with regulation (such as Pavley, the Renewable Energy Standard, compliance with Green Building Standards, and 2013 Title 24 standards [approximately 25 percent more efficient than 2008 Title 24 standards for residential uses) etc.], the Village Build -out Plan year 2035 mitigated emissions would be reduced by 54.2 percent from baseline (2005) emissions; which meets the City of La Quinta GHG Reduction Plan threshold of a 28 percent reduction from baseline emissions by 2035. The Plan included an inventory of GHG emissions establishing 2005 as the baseline year and projecting future year emissions based on 2005 emission levels. The Plan then set reduction targets with the goal of reducing CO2e emissions to 10 percent below 2005 levels by 2020 and 28 percent below 2005 levels by 2035. The City's GHG Reduction Plan is in keeping with the goals of California Assembly Bill 32: the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32), and SB 375 which focuses on reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and urban sprawl, and SCAG's Sustainability Communities Strategy. AB 32 was the nation's first law to limit greenhouse gas emissions and SB 375 was enacted thereafter to more specifically address the transportation and land use components of greenhouse gas emissions. SCAG's Strategy is a blueprint for integrating transportation and land use near existing main streets, downtowns and commercial corridors (SCAG 2012-2025 Sustainability Communities Strategy. Therefore, although the Village Build -out Plan would result in significant impacts associated with the generation of Greenhouse Gas emissions using conventional models, the City believes, that build -out in the Village including non -motorized transportation opportunities, increased transit (bus and shuttle service), and completion of the pedestrian network within a compact Village, will result in a reduction in air emissions and the generation of greenhouse gas emissions. However, because these strategies are not yet in place to quantify, a Statement of Overriding Considerations must be adopted for Greenhouse Gas as well as Air Quality. A Statement of Overriding Considerations was adopted with the adoption of the General Plan. Overriding considerations 3 and 4 specifically apply to Greenhouse Gasses as follows: 3. Impacts identified as significant are generally associated with normal growth and progress and would be much more severe without implementation of the proposed General Plan update. 4. Implementation of the General Plan update will further enhance the quality of life necessary to attract new residents, businesses and visitors to the City, and will generally promote increased investment and development, jobs associated with new and/or expanded construction, and the provision of public services and facilities for a larger population base, and further economic development within the City. The La Quinta Village EIR will utilize these overriding conditions from the General Plan EIR. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 6-5 August 2016 6 OTHER REQUIRED CEQA SECTIONS 6.2.3 Traffic and Circulation The Traffic Impact Analysis prepared for the Village Build -out Plan considered future conditions without and with the project for an Interim Year (2021) and at build -out (2035). The TIA found that with the implementation of mitigation measures outlined in Section 5.14, Traffic and Circulation, all intersections within the TIA study area are projected to operate within acceptable Levels of Service during the peak hours for General Plan Buildout With Project traffic conditions. The TIA also analyzed roadway segments in the study area for both the Interim Year and the Build- out Year. For the General Plan Buildout With Project scenario, roadway segments are projected to operate within acceptable Levels of Service with the exception of the following roadway segments: • Washington Street between Avenue 48 and Eisenhower Drive (Level of Service F); • Calle Tampico between Desert Club Drive and Washington Street (Level of Service E). Although implementation of mitigation measures and Citywide Transportation Demand Management and Transportation Systems Management measures would help reduce impacts to these roadways, impacts cannot be fully mitigate. Therefore, the proposed project is forecast to result in a potentially significant and unavoidable traffic impact along this roadway segments for General Plan Buildout With Project conditions. As with Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas, a Statement of Overriding Considerations was adopted with the adoption of the General Plan. Overriding considerations 3 and 4 specifically apply to Traffic and Circulation as follows: 3. Impacts identified as significant are generally associated with normal growth and progress and would be much more severe without implementation of the proposed General Plan update. 4. Implementation of the General Plan update will further enhance the quality of life necessary to attract new residents, businesses and visitors to the City, and will generally promote increased investment and development, jobs associated with new and/or expanded construction, and the provision of public services and facilities for a larger population base, and further economic development within the City. The La Quinta Village EIR will utilize these overriding conditions from the General Plan EIR. 6.3 Significant Irreversible Environmental Changes State CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.2(c), as clarified by the provisions of State CEQA Guidelines Section15127 requires this subject to be addressed: "Only in EIRs prepared in connection with any of the following activities: (a) the adoption, amendment, enactment of a plan, policy or ordinance of a public agency..." La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 6-6 August 2016 6 OTHER REQUIRED CEQA SECTIONS Because the Village Build -out Plan is such a plan, a discussion of significant irreversible environmental changes is required. These changes include the commitment of non-renewable resources to uses that future generations will probably be unable to reverse, or providing public access to previously inaccessible areas. The commitment of resources must be evaluated to assure that such consumption now is justified. This discussion is also related to the broader discussion of energy conservation described in CEQA Appendix F, where it states that "an EIR should consider the potentially significant energy implications of a project." The issue of providing public access to previously inaccessible areas is not germane to the implementation of Village Build -out Plan because the project area is located within an existing urban setting surrounded on all sides by urban development. The project area itself is also developed with urban uses. Therefore, the focus of this discussion is on the commitment of non-renewable resources to uses that future generations will probably be unable to reverse. The project area is an existing 137 -acre urban area that is partially developed with a mix of residential and non-residential uses. The Village Build- out Plan calls for the development of up to 1,230 new multi -family residences, and up to 799,786 square feet of non-residential uses (commercial retail and office, restaurants, and professional office space in a compact project area where increased density would come from the relaxing of the Zoning Ordinance to allow for increased building heights, and parcels could be combined to create larger developable lots. The major non-renewable resources generally considered in such a discussion include water, electricity, and construction materials (aggregate, wood products, etc.). Water Supply Resources CVWD serves as the water provider for the City of La Quinta. Water supplies that serve the existing La Quinta Planning Area are derived from groundwater in storage and imported Colorado River water and State Water Project (SWP) exchange water. All urban water demands are currently met through groundwater supplies. New water demands generated by proposed development in the Village Build- out Plan project area will be met through a combination of groundwater, imported supplies, and reclaimed water. CVWD expects to have sufficient water supplies to serve development in the La Quinta Planning Area including the Village Build -out Plan project area through 2035 and beyond by utilizing a combination of water supply sources and treating surface water supplies to potable quality standards. CVWD projects that, in 2035, the urban water demand will be supplied by a total of 242,700 acre-feet per year consisting of 53 percent groundwater, 20 percent treated Colorado River Water, 22 percent untreated Colorado River Water, and 4 percent desalinated agricultural drain water. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 6-7 August 2016 6 OTHER REQUIRED CEQA SECTIONS CVWD's current UWMP provides long term water supply/demand planning in an effort to protect water resources, preserve water quality, and assure that water supplies are available to meet demands. CVWD's UWMP evaluated water demands relative to supplies for the period between 2010 and 2035 under normal, single, and multiple dry year conditions. The current UWMP finds that with groundwater supplies, imported water supplies, water conservation programs, and recharge activity water supplies are sufficient to meet demands during normal, single, and multiple dry year conditions through 2035. New development within the La Quinta General Plan Planning Area, including the Village Build -out Plan project area, will result in an increase in the demand for water of approximately 6,555 acre-feet within City Limits and 15,416 acre-feet within the Sphere of Influence by 2035. This new demand will be met by groundwater, imported Colorado River water, desalinated agricultural drain water, or a combination thereof. As described above, CVWD has accounted for this increased water demand in conjunction with all other projected water demands within the service area. CVWD has determined that through utilization of a combination of water supply sources including the need to provide expanded availability of tertiary treated water, and coordination by the City in implementing CVWD UWMP regulations, sufficient water supplies will therefore be available to meet demands in 2035 and also maintain consistency with General Plan Policy UTL-1.1 and Program UTL-1.1a. As such, the level of additional water supplies needed to meet demands generated by development within the Village Build -out Plan will not substantially deplete groundwater reserves or interfere with groundwater recharge. The City of La Quinta relies on CVWD to manage and supply water resources. Nonetheless, the City is committed to promoting water conservation and achieving water savings, protecting groundwater reserves, and preserving groundwater quality. In the Village Build -out Plan, water conservation can be achieved through retrofitting of existing water -intensive appliances with the installation of water efficient appliances, implementation of water efficient landscaping plans for all new development, the use of new technology, and advanced irrigation control for outdoor landscaping. Mitigation Measures HWQ-4 through HWQ-10 in Section 5.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, will ensure that impacts in regard to water supply are reduced to less than significant levels. These measures are also repeated as UTL-4 through UTL-10 found in Section 5.15, Utilities and Service Systems. Electricity IID's Energy Department provides electric power to more than 150,000 customers in its service area. As the third largest public power utility in California, IID controls more than 1,100 megawatts of energy derived from a diverse resource portfolio that includes its own generation, and long- and short-term power purchases. IID benefits greatly from being located in what has been referred to as the "renewable energy capital of the world," and currently produces 30 percent of its power locally, from hydroelectric facilities, La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 6-8 August 2016 6 OTHER REQUIRED CEQA SECTIONS steam generation facilities, and natural gas turbines. IID continues to identify ways to enhance its energy infrastructure to be able to move renewable energy generated in the Imperial Valley to other areas. IID has an aggressive transmission expansion plan and, over the next five years, intends to invest $1 billion in its energy infrastructure, which includes building a state-of-the-art energy battery storage unit in EI Centro, which would provide back-up energy resources but also help the IID grid integrate the many megawatts of solar energy entering the IID grid during the day. IID responded to the Notice of Preparation of the Draft EIR. The issues of concern for IID were not related to the amount of energy that would be required for the project, but rather, the potential effects future projects may have on its existing facilities and easements. IID is confident that because of their unique location in the Imperial and Coachella valleys, and continued efforts to bring more renewable energy on-line, there is adequate energy available in its service area. Construction Materials Construction materials consist of sand and gravel and related Portland cement concrete and asphalt concrete; as well as lumber and related wood products. The project area is in close proximity to a number of aggregate mining operations and aggregate product manufacturing for the construction industry. There are several sites north of the 1-10 freeway at the terminus of Monroe Street and along Dillon Road, north of the City of Indio. According to the State Mining and Geology Board, the anticipated consumption of aggregate in the Palm Springs Production -Consumption (P -C) Region through 2056 is estimated to be 307 million tons of which 45 percent, or 138 tons, must be Portland concrete cement (PCC) quality. This is nearly double the previous 50 -year consumption estimate made by the State. Approximately 10 percent, or 911 acres of the 9,094 acres of land designated by SMGB in 1989 has been lost to land uses incompatible with mining. However, an additional 6,638 acres of land containing an estimated 472 million tons of PCC -grade aggregate resources have been identified in the Palm Springs P -C Region. The Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (AB 939) requires that a municipality be responsible for diverting at least 50 percent of solid waste from landfills. This has been done through recycling and reuse efforts including separating recyclables, and reusing construction materials. The most common construction materials to be recycled and reused are PCC and asphalt concrete (AC). These materials can be processed and reused as roadbed or integrated into AC for road projects. Other materials include lumber and wallboard that can be ground up and used as feedstock for composting into soil amendment products or groundcover. Recycling of used construction materials would likely extend the consumption estimate for aggregate. Regarding lumber, sustainable forest management practices have evolved to meet the demand for forest products while balancing the values people attach to forests and the need for a stable supply of wood -based building products. Practices include better management techniques for harvesting La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 6-9 August 2016 6 OTHER REQUIRED CEQA SECTIONS and replanting trees to continually renew the resource, understanding that lumber is one of the main elements in most buildings that will be constructed in the project area. 6.4 Growth Inducing Impacts State CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.2(d) provides the following guidance when discussing this subject in an EIR: "Discuss the ways in which the proposed project could foster economic or population growth, or the construction of additional housing, either directly or indirectly, in the surrounding environment." The Village Build -out Plan project area is a unique area in the City of La Quinta and development within the project area will occur within the 137 -acre project area. The Plan is consistent with existing land use designations and it is the City's intent to build -out the project area with a mix of urban uses both residential and non-residential to create an accessible area conducive to walking and biking that reduces dependence on the automobile. From this perspective, the project would be growth inducing as the City is encouraging new development in the Village, an area already served by roads and utilities. The project area is developed and is surrounded by residential land uses so infrastructure, including roads and wet/dry utilities are already in place. Therefore, the project would not extend any roads or utilities into a new area not already served that would be considered growth inducing. 6.5 Effects Found not to be Significant The Initial Study prepared for the project in conjunction with the Notice of Preparation, identified a number of environmental issues that would not be affected by the proposed Village Build -out Plan. These are listed herein. 6.5.1 Aesthetics All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.1 of the EIR. 6.5.2 Agriculture and Forestry a. Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland or Farmland of Statewide Importance The La Quinta Village is within an area of Urban and Built Up land on the Riverside County Important Farmland Map prepared under the State's Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program. Implementation of the Build -Out Plan would not impact any Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 6-10 August 2016 6 OTHER REQUIRED CEQA SECTIONS b. Agricultural Zoning and Williamson Act The La Quinta Village area is zoned Village Commercial, Neighborhood Commercial and Major Public Facilities in the City's zoning ordinance, which does not include agricultural use, and no parcels within the Build -out Plan area are designated as Williamson Act lands. Implementation of the Build -Out Plan would not impact any agricultural land use within the City. c -d. Forest Lands and Timberlands There is no forest land or timberland within the Build -out Plan area, so build -out of the La Quinta Village would have no impact on forest land or timberland. There would be no impact to agriculture and forestry resources as a result of the build -out of the La Quinta Village. e. Conversion of Farmland or Forestland to non-agricultural use Due to the fact that there is no farmland or forest land located within the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan area, development of the project will not convert any existing farmland or timber land to non- agricultural uses. 6.5.3 Air Quality All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.2 of the EIR. 6.5.4 Biological Resources All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.3 of the EIR. 6.5.5 Cultural Resources All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.4 of the EIR. 6.5.6 Geology and Soils All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.5 of the EIR. 6.5.7 Greenhouse Gas Emissions All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.6 of the EIR. 6.5.8 Hazards and Hazardous Materials All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.7 of the EIR. 6.5.9 Hydrology and Water Quality All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.8 of the EIR. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 6-11 August 2016 6 OTHER REQUIRED CEQA SECTIONS 6.5.10 Land Use and Planning All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.9 of the EIR. 6.5.11 Mineral Resources a -b. Mineral Resources of Statewide Significance and Local Importance The California Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975 (SMARA) recognizes the loss of regionally significant mineral deposits and requires the Department of Conservation to create Production - Consumption Regions, which are areas where significant mineral resources of statewide importance and regional significance are produced and consumed. The project is located with Mineral Resource Zone 1 (MRZ-1), which includes areas where adequate information indicated that no significant mineral deposits are present, or where it is judged that little likelihood exists for their presence. Since the project is located within a previously disturbed, urban area that would not support mining activities, and no mineral deposits are anticipated to be present, the build -out of the Village would have no impact on mineral resources. 6.5.12 Noise All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.10 of the EIR. 6.5.13 Population and Housing All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.11 of the EIR. 6.5.14 Public Services All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.12 of the EIR. 6.5.15 Recreation All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.13 of the EIR. 6.5.16 Traffic and Circulation All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.14 of the EIR. 6.5.17 Utilities and Services All Impacts are discussed within Section 5.15 of the EIR. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR Page 6-12 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Chapter 7 Alternatives to the Proposed Project 7.1 Introduction This Chapter identifies alternatives to the proposed project pursuant to the provisions of Section 15126.6 of the State CEQA Guidelines, as amended. Section 15126.6(a) of the State CEQA Guidelines states that: "An EIR shall describe a range of reasonable alternatives to the project, or the location of the project, which would feasibly attain most of the basic objectives of the project but would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the project, and evaluate the comparative merits of the alternatives. An EIR needs to not consider every conceivable alternative to a project. Rather it must consider a reasonable range of potentially feasible alternatives that will foster informed decision making and public participation.... There is no ironclad rule governing the nature or scope of the alternatives to be discussed other than the rule of reason." 7.1.1 Consideration in Selecting Alternatives to the Proposed Project State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15126.6 (b) through (f) articulates the key considerations pertaining to, and requirements for, the preparation of the alternatives analysis in an EIR. Key components of the State CEQA Guidelines sections that are relevant to the proposed project addressed in this EIR are summarized below: • Section 15126.6(b) of the State CEQA Guidelines, as amended, states: "... the discussion of alternatives shall focus on alternatives to the project or its location,... even if these alternatives would impede to some degree the attainment of the project objectives, or would be more costly..." • Section 15126.6(c) of the State CEQA Guidelines, as amended, states: "The EIR should also identify any alternatives that were considered by the Lead Agency but were rejected as infeasible during the scoping process and briefly explain the reasons underlying the Lead Agency's determination..." • Section 15126.6(d) of the State CEQA Guidelines, as amended, states: "The EIR shall include sufficient information about each alternative to allow meaningful evaluation, analysis, and comparison with the proposed project. A matrix displaying the major characteristics and significant effects of each alternative may be used to summarize the comparison. If an alternative would cause one or more significant effects in addition to those that would be caused by the project as proposed, the significant effects of the alternative shall be discussed, but in less detail than the significant effects of the project as proposed..." La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-1 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT • Section 15126.6(e)(1) of the State CEQA Guidelines, as amended, states: "The specific alternative of "no project" shall also be evaluated along with its impact. The purpose of describing and analyzing a no project alternative is to allow decision makers to compare the impacts of approving the proposed project with the impacts of not approving the proposed project..." • Section 15126.6(e)(2) of the State CEQA Guidelines, as amended, states: "The "no project" analysis shall discuss the existing conditions at the time the notice of preparation is published... as well as what would be reasonably expected to occur in the foreseeable future if the project were not approved ... If the environmentally superior alternative is the "no project" alternative, the EIR shall also identify an environmentally superior alternative among the other alternatives..." • State CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e)(3)(A) states: "When the project is the revision of an existing ongoing operation, the "no project" alternative will be the continuation of the existing operation into the future..." • State CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(f)(3) states: "Rule of reason. An EIR need not consider an alternative whose effects cannot be reasonably ascertained and whose implementation is remote and speculative." 7.1.2 Development of Alternatives for Analysis Pursuant to the provisions of the aforementioned sections of the State CEQA Guidelines, a range of feasible alternatives to the proposed Village Build -out Plan is considered and evaluated in this EIR. The discussion in this chapter provides the following: 1. A description of the alternatives considered and rejected. 2. A description of the alternatives considered as feasible and evaluated herein. 3. Comparative analysis of each alternative that focuses on the potentially significant unavoidable environmental impacts of the proposed project. The purpose of this analysis is to determine whether alternatives are capable of eliminating or substantially reducing the project's significant environmental impacts. 4. Conclusions regarding the ability of an alternative to: a) avoid or substantially lessen the significant unavoidable impacts of the project; b) the ability of an alternative to attain most of the basic project objectives; and c) the merits and feasibility of an alternative compared to the merits of the proposed project. The alternatives to the proposed project discussed in this EIR are: • Alternative 1: Build -out Under the Existing Zoning Ordinance and Village Design Guidelines • Alternative 2: Reduced Density and Intensity of Uses in the Village La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-2 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT 7.2 Project Description and Objectives 7.2.1 Project Description The proposed project is the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan that identifies future development opportunities in the project area; and assumes development of the remaining vacant properties, as well as redevelopment of underutilized properties with more intensive uses. This would include residential development at densities of 20-30 dwelling units per acre, which is higher than the density allowed under the City's High Density Residential designation, up to 16 dwelling units per acre. The Village Commercial zoning designation allows multifamily residential dwellings such as condominiums, apartments and similar housing types at densities determined on a site specific basis, based on the development capacity for the proposed uses on the site. The planning commission ultimately determines the density of a proposed project (Municipal Code Section 9.65.020). However, for the purposes of this discussion, the maximum 16 du/ac was used for comparison with the proposed Village Build -out Plan. Table 7-1, New and Potential Development Opportunities in the Project Area, lists new land uses that could be developed on the vacant parcels, and potential land uses that could be developed on the underutilized properties. Table 7-1 New and Potential Development in the Project Area Source: City of La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Land Use Data, August 2015. Notes: 1. Residential unit count includes existing residences 2. Unit count represents 251 units in "Existing Developed Properties with no Change in Land Use or Increased Density" but not the 33 units in "Land with the Potential for Redevelopment". La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-3 August 2016 Existing Potential Existing New Non - Land Use Acres Residential New Non- Residential Units Residential Residential Square TOTAL (DU)1 Units (DU) Square Feet Feet Vacant Land 20.70 -- 436 -- 288,330 -- Land with the Potential for 30.20 33 794 12,400 511,456 -- Redevelopment Existing Developed Properties with no Change in Land Use 85.90 251 -- 139,525 -- -- or Increased Density 284 DU 1,481 DU, 290 +290 hotel hotel/ casita Total 136.74 1,230 DU 151,925 799.786 rooms & 960,711 casitas square feet Source: City of La Quinta Village Build -Out Plan Land Use Data, August 2015. Notes: 1. Residential unit count includes existing residences 2. Unit count represents 251 units in "Existing Developed Properties with no Change in Land Use or Increased Density" but not the 33 units in "Land with the Potential for Redevelopment". La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-3 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT 7.2.2 Build -Out Schedule The City's planning effort is focused on streamlining the regulatory process and facilitating a broad range of uses; developing a build -out scenario that addresses maximum potential commercial square footage and dwelling units; developing a network of public spaces and pedestrian, bike, and golf cart routes throughout the area; and assuring that infrastructure is planned to accommodate build -out. The street grid is in place, and no major changes are anticipated. The City's General Plan was adopted in 2013 and focused on the next 20+ years, through 2035. It is the City's intent to allow the Village area to continue to develop through market forces including demand for additional housing, commercial uses, and professional office space. For example, the Villas at Old Town, a mixed-use project approved in 2015, consists of 20,000 square feet of ground floor retail space, underground parking, and 84 condominiums above, to be built in two phases on an approximately 3.5 -acre site at the southeast corner of Calle Tampico and Desert Club Drive. This project is included in the build -out calculations shown in Table 7-1. 7.2.3 Project Objectives The City's goal is to continue to develop the Village as a livable and sustainable neighborhood - reminiscent of older cities - where land uses are more interconnected, compact, and offer a mix of uses, providing opportunities for people to live, work, and shop within the neighborhood. In order to achieve this goal, a number of objectives have been identified based on the concept of mixed- use. The City's objectives in proposing the Village Build -out Plan are as follows: • Continue the development of the Village as a mixed use neighborhood by encouraging additional residential and commercial development. • Ensure that public facilities and infrastructure are adequate to support the increase in intensity of land uses in the Village. • Capitalize on unique development opportunities in the Village area by focusing on shopping, dining, entertainment, professional and mixed use options while improving the aesthetics of the community. • Enforce development standards that: 1) create attractive, useable and safe public spaces; and 2) promote safe indoor and outdoor spaces and provide emergency services that are adequately funded, staffed, and equipped to provide timely responses. 7.3 Impacts of the Proposed Project Chapter 5, Environmental Impact Analysis, evaluated the potential impacts associated with implementation of the proposed Village Build -out Plan. The conclusion of the EIR is that there are a La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-4 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT number of potentially significant impacts that can be reduced to less than significant levels with implementation of: 1) development standards; 2) performance standards; or 3) mitigation measures. These are summarized in Table 7-2, Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures. 7.4 Alternatives to the Proposed Project 7.4.1 Alternatives Considered and Rejected from Further Analysis 7.4.1.1 No Project — No Development Alternative CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e) specifically addresses the requirement to discuss a No Project alternative with the option to evaluate one of two scenarios: 1) when a project is a revision to an existing land use or regulatory plan, policy or ongoing operation the no -project alternative would be the continuation of the existing plan, policy or operation into the future; or 2) if the project is other than a land use or regulatory plan, such as a development project, the no -project alternative is the circumstance under which the project does not proceed. In certain circumstances, the no project alternative is a no build scenario where the existing environmental setting is maintained. Scenario 1 is evaluated in Section 7.4.3 — Alternative 1 — No Project - Buildout Under the Existing Zoning Ordinance and La Quinta Village Design Guidelines. Scenario 2, the No Project/No Development Alternative was rejected because the Village is an existing Commercial District that is currently developed with a number of residential, commercial, professional office, and public facilities uses, but still has a number of vacant and underutilized properties that could be developed. Therefore, an analysis where the existing environmental setting is maintained, is not a logical alternative to the proposed Village Build -out Plan. 7.4.1.2 Increased Density Alternative In studying the optimum build -out scenario for the Village, the City of La Quinta considered varying densities of residential and non-residential uses. One such alternative was to develop the project area with an additional 799,786 square feet of non-residential uses and up to 40 dwelling units to the acre where the proposed Build -out Plan calls for a maximum of 25 to 30 dwelling units to the acre. This alternative was considered and rejected because it would require an increase in the height of buildings greater than the 60 feet proposed in the Build -out Plan, in order to reach the density of 40 dwelling units to the acre, which would be incompatible with the character of the Village. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-5 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-2 Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures Potential Impacts on Level of Significance after Mitigation Measures the environment Mitigation 5.1 Aesthetics Light and glare AES -1 Compliance with the City's Outdoor Lighting Ordinance of the Municipal Less than significant Code (Section 9.100.150). 5.2 Air Quality Air emissions during long- Construction Significant and Unavoidable term operation AQ -1 During construction, all development project are subject SCAQMD Rules for the control of fugitive dust, maintenance of construction vehicles and equipment, and for the use of reduced VOC asphalt, architectural coatings and solvents Operation AQ -2 Install ENERGY STAR -compliant appliances. AQ -3 Install high -efficiency lighting that is at least 10% more efficient than standard lighting. AQ -4- Compliance with SCAQMD Rule 1186 for street sweepers and providing a menu of options for employers to reduce emissions generated by employee commutes. AQ -5 Connect and improve sidewalks within each project boundary and along the off-site roadway improvements. AQ -6 Meet or exceed California Building Code Energy Efficiency Standards. AQ -7 Install water fixtures that would reduce indoor water demand by 20 percent per CalGreen Standards. AQ -8 Prepare and implement recycling programs that reduce waste to landfills by a minimum of 75 percent. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-6 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-1 Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on Mitigation Measures Level of Significance after the environment Mitigation AQ -9 Use paints and coatings with a VOC content lower than SCAQMD Rule 1113. 5.3 Biological Resources Avian species including 13I0-1 Preconstruction for Burrowing Owl at each vacant site prior to any site Less than significant burrowing owl disturbance. 13I0-2 Removal of any existing mature trees located on a project site shall be preceded by the completion of an avian nesting survey. 13I0-3 Project payments of CVMSHCP Mitigation Fee. 5.4 Cultural Resources Historic buildings, and CR -1 Demolition or extensive alteration of the building at 78035-78039 Calle Less than significant unknown buried resources Estado should be avoided. Overriding considerations to justify the loss of the or human remains building would need to be developed were demolition pursued. CR -2 If redevelopment of the parcel occurs, the design of any new construction adjacent to this one-story Spanish Colonial Revival -style commercial building must be compatible in design, scale, massing, and appearance as stated in the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines. CR -3 The design of any new construction adjacent to the one- and two-story Spanish Colonial and Monterey Revival -style historic resources at 78023 Calle Estado, 77895 Avenida Montezuma, 77885 Avenida Montezuma, and 51001 Eisenhower Drive, shall be compatible in design, scale, massing, and appearance as required by the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines. CR -4 The design of any new construction within the Village Build -Out Plan Area adjacent to the residences of the La Quinta Cove Thematic Historic District shall be compatible in design, scale, massing, and appearance with existing historical commercial buildings in the Village Commercial zone. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-7 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-2 Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on Mitigation Measures Level of Significance after the environment Mitigation 5.4 Cultural Resources (continued) CR -5 Due to the sensitivity of the area for native American resources, grading/construction shall be monitoring by a qualified archaeologist and Native American monitor. CR -6 Due to the sensitivity of the area for paleontological resources, a qualified vertebrate paleontologist shall be retained prior to the start of construction of a development project, but after final depths of impacts are known (from grading plans), to develop a paleontological mitigation plan limited to the proposed deep impact areas. CR -7 In the event that human remains are uncovered, no further disturbance shall occur until the Riverside County Coroner has made a determination of origin and disposition pursuant to PRC Section 5097.98. 5.5 Geology and Soils Seismicity GEO-1 Build in accordance with the latest version of the California Building Code Less than significant (CBC). GEO-2 Applicants of new development including redevelopment involving changes to structural building size shall be required to prepare a detailed geotechnical and soils analysis that includes soil sampling, laboratory testing and mitigation measures intended to reduce potential geotechnical hazards to less than significant levels. 5.6 Global Climate Change GHG emissions during long- GHG-1 Project applicants shall provide sidewalks within the project boundary and Significant and Unavoidable term operation along the off-site roadway improvements where these are lacking. GHG-2 Project applicants shall ensure that all building structures meet or exceed 2013 Title 24, Part 6 Standards and meet Green Building Code Standards, or more stringent standards if in place at the time building permits are issued. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-8 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-2 Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on Mitigation Measures Level of Significance after the environment Mitigation 5.6 Global Climate Change (continued) GHG-3 Project applicants shall ensure that all faucets, toilets and showers installed in the proposed structures utilize low -flow fixtures that would reduce indoor water demand by 20 percent per CalGreen Standards to the satisfaction of the Building Department. GHG-4 Project applicants shall ensure that ENERGY STAR -compliant appliances are installed where appliances are required on-site. GHG-5 Project applicants shall implement recycling programs that reduce waste to landfills by a minimum of 75 percent. GHG-6 Project applicants shall install high -efficiency lighting be installed that is at least 10 percent more efficient than standard lighting. GHG-7 To the extent feasible, project applicants shall use paints and coatings with a VOC content lower than SCAQMD Rule 1113 requires for application to surfaces of residential dwelling units and commercial units within project boundaries. 5.7 Hazards and Hazardous Materials Transport, storage, use or HAZ-1 All new development projects that propose the use, transport or storage of Less than significant disposal of hazardous hazardous materials in their plan of operations and are defined as a new materials generator of hazardous materials shall comply with all local, state, and federal regulations, as required by law. HAZ-2 All new development that proposes the storage and use of hazardous materials at or above reporting criteria thresholds shall prepare a Hazardous Materials Business Emergency Plan (HMBEP). La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-9 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-2 Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on Mitigation Measures Level of Significance after the environment Mitigation 5.7 Hazards and Hazardous Materials (continued) HAZ-3 All new development projects that propose the use and storage of hazardous materials will be required to prepare a Spill Prevention Counter measurement Contingency Plan (SPCC). HAZ-4 All project development proposals shall submit plans to the Fire Department for review and conditioning for safe accessibility of fire and ambulatory services and for appropriate evacuation routing of the project development in the event of an emergency. HAZ-5 All project development proposals shall submit plans to the Fire Department for review and conditioning for safe accessibility of fire and ambulatory services and for appropriate evacuation routing of the project development in the event of an emergency. HWQ-1 Prior to the issuance of building permits on vacant or underutilized parcels that will be developed within the Village Build -out Plan, a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) shall be prepared for all projects within the Village Build -out Plan that disturb one acre or more. 5.7 Hazards and Hazardous Materials (continued) Potential for pollutants to HWQ-1 Prior to the issuance of building permits on vacant or underutilized parcels mix with stormwater and that will be developed within the Village Build -out Plan, a Storm Water enter the storm drain Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) shall be prepared for all projects within system the Village Build -out Plan that disturb one acre or more. HWQ-2 Prior to the issuance of building permits on vacant parcels within the Village Build -out Plan project area, a WQMP for post construction conditions shall list appropriate best management practices (BMPs) for the control and treatment of runoff from the project site. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-10 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-2 Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment Mitigation Measures Level of Significance after Mitigation Hydrology and Water Quality (continued) Potential for new HWQ-3 The City of La Quinta is responsible for constructing improvements to the development to increase storm drain evacuation system in the Village Build -out project area. These impervious surfaces and improvements must be made prior to commencement of development of increase runoff and new projects in the project area, proposed after adoption of the Build -out Plan. Potential for developed HWQ-4 Prior to project construction of new projects on vacant lands, or properties to be affected redevelopment projects on currently developed parcels, the project by flooding during a major applicant shall pay a DIF specific towards funding of improvements. storm event HWQ-5 All project development within the Village Build -out Plan shall coordinate Increase in groundwater and cooperate with CVWD to ensure City-wide compliance with current usage with increase in State Senate Bill x7-7 to reduce per capita urban water use by 36 percent urban uses for year 2016, and 20 percent reduction by year 2020. HWQ-5 All project development within the Village Build -out Plan shall coordinate and cooperate with CVWD to ensure City-wide compliance with current State Senate Bill x7-7 to reduce per capita urban water use by 36 percent for year 2016, and 20 percent reduction by year 2020. HWQ-6 The City shall review and amend its Development Standards to require that all new development within the Village Build -out Plan demonstrate a reduction of domestic water consumption equivalent to the CalGreen Tier One standards in effect at the time of development. HWQ-7 The City shall continue to implement its Water Efficient Landscape ordinance by requiring that development projects within the Village Build- out Plan implement water efficient landscaping plans to meet or exceed current water efficiency standards. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-11 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-2 Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on Level of Significance after Mitigation Measures the environment Mitigation 5.8 Hydrology and Water Quality (continued) HWQ-8 The City shall require that new development within the Village Build -out Plan reduce its projected water consumption over "business as usual" consumption rates. HWQ-9 The City shall develop programs to allow and encourage the retrofitting of existing water intensive appliances and irrigation systems for existing development within the Village Build -out Plan. HWQ-10 The City shall continue to require that all new developments within the Village Build -out Plan use water conserving appliances and fixtures, in conformance with Section 17921.3 of the Health and Safety Code, Title 20, California Administrative Code Section 1601(b), and applicable sections of Title 24 of the State Code. 5.9 Land Use Increased parking demand LU -1 The City will implement a set of parking management strategies, parking Less than significant supply strategies, and zoning/administration strategies beginning with those identified in Table 5.9-4. 5.10 Noise Noise associated with N0I-1 Noise Impact Analysis shall be required in conjunction with entitlement Less than significant increased traffic and applications projects proposed within the La Quinta Village Build -out Plan population in the Village area. The study shall analyze noise levels within the proposed project, and include mitigation measures to assure that the exterior noise levels meet the City's standards. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-12 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-2 Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on Mitigation Measures Level of Significance after the environment Mitigation 5.10 Noise (continued) N0I-2 Truck deliveries to businesses in the project area that are adjacent to sensitive land uses shall be limited to daylight hours, or shall provide noise mitigation measures to reduce noise impacts. 5.11 Population and Housing Creation of new housing None required Less than significant opportunities 5.12 Public Services (continued) PS -1 The City and Riverside County Fire Department shall continue to confer and coordinate to ensure that facilities and services within the Village Build -out Plan are expanded in a timely manner. PS -2 The Riverside County Fire Department shall continue to review and evaluate new development proposals and project plans within the Village Build -out Plan to make certain that it can provide adequate fire protection. PS -3 All new development projects within the Village Build -out Plan shall be subject to Police Department review to assure that within the Village Build -out Plan the Department can provide adequate police protection. PS -4 The City shall monitor City population and Police Department staffing levels to ensure the provision of police protection services at sufficient levels. PS -5 Development projects within the Village Build -out Plan shall be assessed statutory school mitigation fees, in place at the time residential and commercial projects are proposed. PS -6 Development projects within the Village Build -out Plan shall be assessed statutory library mitigation fees, in place at the time residential and non- residential projects are proposed. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-13 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-2 Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on Mitigation Measures Level of Significance after the environment Mitigation 5.13 Recreation Increased demand on parks None required with payment of Development Impact Fees. and recreation 5.14 Transportation and Traffic (continued) Increased traffic in the The following mitigation measures are recommended for Interim Year With Project Less than significant vicinity traffic conditions: CIR-1 Washington Street/Avenida La Fonda (#13): Construct a raised "worm" median to allow northbound left -turns and restrict eastbound left -turns. CIR-2 Jefferson Street/Avenue 52 (#16): Reconstruct the existing roundabout to provide two circulating lanes and two entry lanes at the northbound and southbound approaches. The following Mitigation Measures are recommended for General Plan Buildout With Project traffic conditions: CIR-3 Eisenhower Drive/Avenida Montezuma (#3): Convert Eisenhower Drive/Avenida Montezuma from an all -way stop control to a yield -controlled roundabout [this improvement is assumed in the Village Buildout Circulation Plan]. CIR-4 Washington Street/Avenue 48 (#9): Construct the northbound approach to consist of three through lanes and one right -turn lane. Remove the pedestrian crosswalk at the north leg of the intersection. Based on the City's traffic study guidelines, the following circulation improvements are recommended in addition to the roadway improvements identified in the current General Plan Circulation Element: La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-14 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-2 Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment Mitigation Measures Level of Significance after Mitigation 5.14 Transportation and Traffic (continued) CIR-S Eisenhower Drive / Calle Tampico (#2): Construct one additional westbound left -turn lane to provide dual left -turn lanes. CIR-6 Avenida Bermudas/Calle Tampico (#5): Construct one additional westbound left -turn lane, or construct a roundabout per Village Build -out Plan TIA. CIR-7 Desert Club Drive / Calle Tampico (#7): Construct one exclusive northbound right -turn lane and one additional westbound left -turn lane, or construct a roundabout per Village Build -out Plan TIA. CIR-8 Washington Street/Avenue 48 (#9): Construct one exclusive northbound right -turn lane. CIR-9 Washington Street/Avenue 52 (#14): Construct one additional eastbound left -turn lane to provide triple left -turn lanes. Provide one additional southbound left -turn lane to provide triple left -turn lanes. The following mitigation measure is related specifically to intersections that have been identified to operate at LOS E along Calle Tampico: CIR-10 For road segments along Calle Tampico between Avenida Bermudas and Washington Street, the City shall conduct periodic monitoring of actual conditions in the Village(timing to be determined as development begins to occur in the project area), and will review its Parking Demand Management strategies (directly correlated with traffic volumes) to determine additional strategies that can be employed related to remote parking and shuttle services, additional pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and educational programs. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-15 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-2 Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment Mitigation Measures Level of Significance after Mitigation 5.15 Utilities and Infrastructure Increased demand on UTL-1 All new development within the Village Build -out Plan shall be connected to Less than significant public utilities sanitary sewer service. UTL-2 The City shall ensure coordination with CVWD and to assure that existing and future extended sanitary sewer facilities are adequate. UTL-3 The City shall create a tracking log for development projects in the project area that identifies the existing water and sewer lines in the project area, then on a project by project basis, inputs the type and size of proposed uses, the potable water required and wastewater generated. The City will work with CVWD to determine when upgrades to infrastructure will be required. UTL-4 All project development within the Village Build -out Plan shall coordinate with CVWD to show compliance with water reduction requirements. UTL-S All new development within the Village Build -out Plan shall demonstrate a reduction of domestic water consumption equivalent to the CalGreen Tier One standards in effect at the time of development. UTL-6 The City shall continue to implement its Water Efficient Landscape ordinance by requiring that development projects within the Village Build- out Plan implement water efficient landscaping plans to meet or exceed current water efficiency standards. UTL-7 In conjunction with CVWD as well as independently, the City shall develop programs to allow and encourage the retrofitting of existing water intensive appliances and irrigation systems for existing development within the Village Build -out Plan. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-16 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-2 Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures (continued) Potential Impacts on the environment _F Mitigation Measures Level of Significance after Mitigation 5.15 Utilities and Service Systems (continued) UTL-8 All new developments shall use water conserving appliances and fixtures, as well as the application of water -conserving technologies in conformance with Section 17921.3 of the Health and Safety Code, Title 20, California Administrative Code Section 1601(b), and applicable sections of Title 24 of the State Code. UTL-9 All new and existing commercial establishments shall be required to comply with State mandates (AB 341) to reduce the amount of packaging and potential waste associated with product manufacturing and sales. UTL- 10 The City shall continue to refer project developers to Burrtec for development of construction and demolition solid waste recycling plans in order to divert a minimum of 50% of C&D debris from the waste stream. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-17 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT 7.4.2 Alternatives Considered for Evaluation Two alternatives to the proposed Village Build -out Plan were considered for evaluation compared to the proposed project. 7.4.2.1 Alternative 1: Build -out Under the Existing Zoning Ordinance and La Quinta Village Design Guidelines Under this alternative development in the Village Build -out Plan project area is the No -Project Alternative where the proposed Zoning Code amendments would not be adopted to allow for increased height and residential density that would create a more compact pedestrian friendly neighborhood, with residential, commercial and professional office space. In addition, under this alternative, projects would continue to be subject to the Village Design Guidelines which include a maximum building height of 45 feet. Table 7-3, Comparison Between Development Under Existing Zoning Code/Village Design Guidelines and the Village Build -out Plan, shows the difference between the proposed project and this alternative. Table 7-3 Comparison Between Development Under Existing Zoning Code/Village Design Guidelines and the Village Build -out Plan Alternative 1 Village Build -out Plan' Existing Zoning Code/Village Design Guidelines) Village Commercial District Building heights shall not exceed two stories Building heights shall not exceed 60 feet (no building height identified) (number of stories not identified) The intensity of the commercial projects and Residential density of up to 25 du/ac south of Calle residential density shall be determined on a site Tampico and 30 du/ac north of Calle Tampico; specific basis, under the Village Use Permit process; intensity of commercial component continues to be but for the purposes of the alternatives analysis an determined on a site specific basis but for purposes FAR of .35 and a residential density of 16 du/ac was of the environmental evaluation a FAR of .5 was assumed. assumed Design Guideline Representations shown in the Various architectural styles will be encouraged appendix are examples of a Mediterranean and subject to review by the Architecture and Spanish styles of architecture Landscaping Review Board and Planning Commission Neighborhood Commercial District (northwest corner of Calle Tampico and Washington Street) Site not affected by Zoning Code Amendment or rescinding of the Village Design Guidelines Notes: 1. City of La Quinta Zoning Ordinance Chapter 9.65, Village Design Guidelines. 2. City of La Quinta Village Build -out Plan, Final Summary Table. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-18 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Existing zoning designations in the project area are as follows: Village Commercial The Village Commercial Designation applies specifically to the traditional Commercial core of the City, and allows specialty retail; such as boutiques and art galleries as well as restaurants, professional offices and services, and hotels. Apartments, condominiums and live -work space is also appropriate in this designation. As established in General Plan 2035 Policy LU -7.1, mixed use development is allowed in this designation. Mixed use projects can include vertical or horizontal combinations of land uses that are integrated through pedestrian connections and common areas; or can include residential units added to existing commercial development. General Commercial This land use designation applies to the majority of commercial land in the City. The full range of commercial uses can occur within this designation, ranging from supermarkets and drugstores in a neighborhood shopping center, to major national retailers in large buildings. General Commercial uses also include professional offices, service businesses, restaurants, hotels or motels, research and development and warehousing or similar low impact quasi -industrial projects. As established in General Plan 2035 Policy LU -7.1, mixed use development is also appropriate in this designation. Magor Community Facilities The Major Community Facilities Land Use designation has been assigned to existing or planned municipal, educational or public facilities; such as City and Desert Sands Unified School District facilities and buildings, utility facilities and buildings, fire stations, and public parking lots and similar uses. Recreational Open Space The Recreational Open Space designation applies to parks, recreation facilities (such as driving ranges, club houses and athletic facilities), and public and private golf courses. Alternative Analysis Under this alternative, 16 dwelling units per acre was assumed (Residential High Designation), 590,935 square feet of the Village Build -out Plan's non-residential uses, and a maximum of two -stories on new buildings (not including underground parking). These assumptions are based on the more traditional commercial district where each project is responsible for meeting its particular parking requirements on- site, and the Village Design Guidelines. The number of dwelling units was determined by using the Residential High Density (RH) designation (12-16 du/ac) per Zoning Code Chapter 9.50.020. Table 7-4, Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 1 for Intensity and Density of Land Uses, shows how Alternative 1 compares to the Village Build -out Plan. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-19 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-4 Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 1 for Intensity and Density of Land Uses Summary of Comparison Between the Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 1 Less Than Significant and Similar Impacts to the Village Build -out Plan As shown in Table 7-5, there are a number of impacts associated with the proposed Village Build -out Plan that are similar to those identified for Alternative 1, Build -out Under Existing Zoning and the La Quinta Village Design Guidelines, and these can be mitigated to less than significant levels through measures identified in Table 7-2 for both the project and Alternative 1. These include the following: • Biological Resources • Cultural Resources • Geology and Soils • Hazards and Hazardous Materials • Hydrology and Water Quality • Land Use • Noise • Public Services • Recreation • Traffic and Circulation Table 7-5, Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 1 for Environmental Effects, shows the difference between the Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 1. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-20 August 2016 Village Build -out Plan Alternative 1 Difference Building Height 60 feet Buildings not to exceed 2 stories or 45 feet +15 feet Dwelling Units/ acre 20-30 16 (RH District maximum) 4-14 more units per acre Dwelling Units 1,230 785 -445 Non -Res Scl Ft 799,786 590,935 -208,851 Population 3,198 2,041 -1,157 Summary of Comparison Between the Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 1 Less Than Significant and Similar Impacts to the Village Build -out Plan As shown in Table 7-5, there are a number of impacts associated with the proposed Village Build -out Plan that are similar to those identified for Alternative 1, Build -out Under Existing Zoning and the La Quinta Village Design Guidelines, and these can be mitigated to less than significant levels through measures identified in Table 7-2 for both the project and Alternative 1. These include the following: • Biological Resources • Cultural Resources • Geology and Soils • Hazards and Hazardous Materials • Hydrology and Water Quality • Land Use • Noise • Public Services • Recreation • Traffic and Circulation Table 7-5, Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 1 for Environmental Effects, shows the difference between the Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 1. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-20 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-5 Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 1 for Environmental Effects La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-21 August 2016 Village Build -out Plan Alternative 1 Difference Aesthetics Building heights of 60 feet Building heights not to exceed two Lower building heights stories or 45 feet Air Quality Thresholds Significant and Unavoidable for Significant and Unavoidable for Significant and Unavoidable for (Ib/day) VOC (123.75 Ib/day) VOC (80.73 Ib/day) VOC VOC 75 NOx 100 NOx (102.9 Ib/day) CO 550 SOx 150 CO (754.42 Ib/day) PM10 150 PM2.5 55 Biological Resources Less than significant with mitigation - Less than significant with mitigation Similar as vacant and see Table 7-2 for list of measures — see Table 7-2 for list of measures underutilized properties would be developed Cultural Resources Less than significant with mitigation — Less than significant with mitigation Similar as vacant and see Table 7-2 for list of measures — see Table 7-2 for list of measures underutilized properties would be developed Geology and Soils Less than significant with mitigation — Less than significant with mitigation Similar as vacant and see Table 7-2 for list of measures — see Table 7-2 for list of measures underutilized properties would be developed Greenhouse Gasses Significant and Unavoidable Total Significant and Unavoidable Total Impact remains Significant and Metric tons per year Emissions and Emissions per service Emissions and Emissions per service Unavoidable but total emissions MTCO2e 3,000 population population and emissions per SP would be Per Service 37,922.64 MTCO2e/yr and 7.4 24,649.7 MTCO2e/yr and 4.81 less Population 3.0 MTCO2e/SP/yr MTCO2e/SP/yr Hazards and Hazardous Less than significant with mitigation — Less than significant with mitigation Similar as vacant and Materials see Table 7-2 for list of measures — see Table 7-2 for list of measures underutilized properties would be developed Hydrology and Water Less than significant with mitigation — Less than significant with mitigation Similar as vacant and Quality see Table 7-2 for list of measures — see Table 7-2 for list of measures underutilized properties would be developed La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-21 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-5 Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 1 for Environmental Effects (continued) La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-22 August 2016 Village Build -out Plan Alternative 1 Difference Land Use Less than significant with Less than significant with Similar as vacant and implementation of Parking Demand implementation of Parking Demand underutilized properties would Strategies Strategies be developed Noise Less than significant with mitigation — Less than significant with mitigation Similar as vacant and see Table 7-2 for list of measures — see Table 7-2 for list of measures underutilized properties would be developed Population and Housing 3,198 Residents 2,040 Residents -1,158 No adverse impacts identified No adverse impacts identified No adverse impacts identified but would not meet the City's goal to continue the development of the Village by encouraging additional residential development Public Services Less than significant with mitigation — Less than significant with mitigation Similar but 25% fewer residents see Table 7-2 for list of measures — see Table 7-2 for list of measures and fewer non -res land uses may translate into less impact on public services Recreation Less than significant impact as the City Less than significant impact as the Similar as vacant and will monitor new development to City will monitor new development underutilized properties would ensure that public facilities and to ensure that public facilities and be developed infrastructure are adequate to support infrastructure are adequate to the increase in intensity of land uses in support the increase in intensity of the Village land uses in the Village Traffic and Circulation Less than significant with mitigation — Less than significant with mitigation Similar as vacant and see Table 7-2 for list of measures — see Table 7-2 for list of measures underutilized properties would be developed La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-22 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-5 Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 1 for Environmental Effects (continued) Source: Coachella Valley Water District Urban Water Management Plan, 2010, and CalRecycle (www.caIrecycle. ca.gov). 1. Water use: 1) Residential — 55gpd/person @2.6 persons per household = 143 gpd/du. 2) Non-residential — 0.096 gpd/sqft of new commercial/professional. 2. Wastewater Generation: Urban area = 0.85 percent of water usage. 3. Solid Waste: Residential — 4.7 Ib/day/person x 2.6 persons per household = 12.22 Ib/day. 4. Solid Waste: Non-residential — Specialty Commercial per the TIA consisting of a variety of retail, restaurant and office uses - .006 Ib/sqft/day. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-23 August 2016 Village Build -out Plan Alternative 1 Difference Utilities and Service Systems Water Use — Residential' 175,890 gpd 131,918 gpd Less water used Water Use — Non -res' 76,780 gpd 57,585 gpd -63,104 gpd Total 252,670 gpd 189,566 gpd Wastewater Generation Less wastewater generated 189,502 gpd 161,131 gpd -28,371 gpd Solid Waste — Res3 15,030 Ib/day 11,273 Ib/day Solid Waste — Non -res' 4,800 Ib/day 3,600 Ib/day -4,957 Ib/day Total 19,830 lb/day 14,873 lb/day Source: Coachella Valley Water District Urban Water Management Plan, 2010, and CalRecycle (www.caIrecycle. ca.gov). 1. Water use: 1) Residential — 55gpd/person @2.6 persons per household = 143 gpd/du. 2) Non-residential — 0.096 gpd/sqft of new commercial/professional. 2. Wastewater Generation: Urban area = 0.85 percent of water usage. 3. Solid Waste: Residential — 4.7 Ib/day/person x 2.6 persons per household = 12.22 Ib/day. 4. Solid Waste: Non-residential — Specialty Commercial per the TIA consisting of a variety of retail, restaurant and office uses - .006 Ib/sqft/day. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-23 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Less Impact than the Village Build -out Plan Table 7-5 also shows where impacts associated with Alternative 1 would be less than impacts associated with the proposed project. These are Aesthetics and Population and Housing. Aesthetics — under the proposed project, building heights could increase to 60 feet. On properties north of Calle Tampico, the Village Build -out Plan calls for 615 dwelling units and 346,465 square feet of non- residential uses. The area north of Calle Tampico that is either vacant land or has the potential to be redeveloped is a total of 20.43 acres; 9.31 acres represent the shopping center located at the northwest corner of Calle Tampico and Washington Street. The assumption in the Plan is for ground floor commercial with residential above. Development under the Plan could have a significant effect on Aesthetics by restricting or blocking views from existing public spaces and along the Calle Tampico Image Corridor. Under existing conditions, the properties north of Calle Tampico that are subject to the Village Build -out Plan are all currently developed with existing uses, except for 2.4 acres at the northwest corner of Calle Tampico and Desert Club Drive. Using the assumptions in the Village Build -out Plan for this site north of Calle Tampico, up to 52,272 square feet of non-residential (.5 FAR) and 72 dwelling units could be built above. Under this alternative, buildings would not exceed 45 feet in height. Therefore, development under Alternative 1 would have a less than significant impact on Aesthetics regarding views from public spaces. However, this Alternative would not meet the City's goals to continue the development of the Village as a mixed use neighborhood by encouraging additional residential and commercial development, as it assumes status quo in that only vacant properties would be subject to development proposals. Population and Housing — Under the proposed project, the number of dwelling units varies between 20 and 30 units to the acre allowing for a maximum of 1,230 new dwelling units. Using a ratio of 2.6 residents per dwelling unit, the projected population at build -out would be 3,198 new residents. Under Alternative 1, the number of dwelling units is a maximum of 16 dwelling units to the acre as allowed under the Residential High zoning designation. This would result in 445 fewer new dwelling units and 1,158 fewer residents living in the Village. The City's goal in proposing an increase in density is to create a synergy between residents living in the Village and the non-residential uses that would be developed in the Village. The project area is approximately 137 acres and under the proposed project residents would be able to walk, bike or use a golf cart to get around. Alternative 1 would not meet this goal to the same extent as the proposed project. Significant and Unavoidable Impact Table 7-2 identified two impacts associated with the proposed Village Build -out Plan that cannot be reduced to less than significant levels through mitigation. These are Air Quality and Greenhouse Gases. Both impacts would remain significant and unavoidable for Alternative 1. Air Quality — Under the Village Build -out Plan, air emissions during long-term operation would be significant for VOC - 123.75 Ib/day (75), NOx- 102.9 Ib/day (100) and CO - 754.42 Ib/day (550). SCAQMD La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-24 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT thresholds are shown in parentheses. Under Alternative 1, air emissions would all be below the SCAQMD thresholds except for VOC - 80.73 Ib/day (75). Therefore, although air emissions would be greatly reduced under this alternative, one SCAQMD threshold would still be exceeded, and the impact would remain significant and unavoidable. Greenhouse Gasses — Under the Village Build -out Plan, greenhouse gas emissions during long term operation would be significant for the generation of gross metric tons of CO2 per year (MTCO2e) of 37,9222.64 (3,000 MTY) as well as 7.4 MTCO2e per Service Population (3.0). SCAQMD thresholds are shown in parentheses. Under Alternative 1, greenhouse gas emissions would be above the SCAQMD thresholds at 24,649.70 MTCO2e and 4.81 MTCO2e per Service Population. Therefore, although greenhouse gas emissions would be greatly reduced under this alternative, the impact would remain significant and unavoidable. This alternative represents build -out of the Village under the General Plan, applicable Zoning Districts and Village Design Guidelines. Therefore, the impacts to Air Quality and Greenhouse Gasses associated with this alternative were evaluated in the General Plan 2035 Program EIR and were found to be significant and unavoidable. The City Council adopted a Statement of Overriding Considerations including Statement 2 - Impacts identified as significant are generally associated with normal growth and progress and would be much more severe without implementation of the proposed General Plan update. A similar Statement of Overriding Considerations will be adopted for the Village Build -out Plan if this alternative is chosen. Summary A reduction of 445 new dwelling units and 208,851 square feet of non-residential uses would result in fewer vehicle trips, with a resulting reduction in air emissions as shown in Table 7-5. Impacts associated with vehicle trips can be reduced to less than significant levels through the development of traffic calming techniques such as round -abouts at key intersections and adding bicycle/golf cart lanes to provide options for residents and visitors to get out of their cars. Alternative 1 would result in a significant reduction in air emissions and greenhouse gas emissions, however, build -out under this alternative would still result in emissions of VOCs in exceedance of the SCAQMD threshold during long term operation (Air), and emissions of CO2 (GHG). The City's goal is to continue to develop the Village as a livable and sustainable neighborhood - reminiscent of older cities - where land uses are more interconnected, compact, and offer a mix of uses, providing opportunities for people to live, work, and shop within the neighborhood. In order to achieve this goal, a number of objectives have been identified based on the concept of mixed-use. This alternative would meet this goal, but not to the extent that the Village Build -out Plan would, as this alternative would only accommodate 2/3 of the population envisioned in the Plan and % of the new non- residential uses. Build -out at the density and intensity provided in the Village Build -out Plan would create livable and sustainable neighborhood because at build -out, including both existing residents and new La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-25 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT residents, there is the potential for the population in the Village to reach 3,936 residents. When adding tourists and residents in other parts of the City who would be drawn in, the Village would become a vibrant walkable neighborhood. Under Alternative 1, the total number of residents would be 2,040, and when adding existing residents, the total population of the Village would be 2,778, or 1,158 fewer residents. 7.4.2.2 Alternative 2: Reduced Village Build -out Plan Project Area Underthis alternative, development in the Village Build -out Plan project area would only occur on vacant properties. Properties that the City has identified as having the potential to be redeveloped under the Village Build -out Plan would remain developed with existing uses. Under this alternative, the intensity and density of new uses on vacant properties would be similar to those allowed under the Village Build- out Plan. • Building Height — 60 feet • Dwelling units at up to 30 units to the acre • No Village Design Guidelines — architectural style considered on a project by project basis Alternative Analysis Under this alternative only vacant properties would be developed, but development standards set forth in the Village Build -out Plan for height and density would be used. This alternative represents approximately 35 percent of the development potential of the Village Build -out Plan. For the 20.67 acres of vacant land in the Village, 436 dwelling units and 297,330 square feet of non-residential uses could be developed, representing a reduction from the Village Build -out Plan of 502,459 square feet of non- residential uses and 794 fewer dwelling units. Table 7-6, Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 2 for Intensity and Density of Land Uses, shows how Alternative 2 compares to the Village Build -out Plan. Table 7-7, Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 2 for Environmental Affects, shows the difference between the Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 2. Table 7-6 Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 2 for Intensity and Density of Land Uses La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-26 August 2016 Village Build -out Plan Alternative 2 Difference Building Height 60 feet north of Calle Tampico No Change +15 feet Dwelling Units/ acre 20-30 No Change -- Dwelling Units 1,230 436 -794 Non -Res Sq Ft 799,786 297,330 -502,459 Population 3,198 1,134 -2,064 La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-26 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Summary of Comparison Between the Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 1 Less Than Significant and Similar Impacts to the Village Build -out Plan As shown in Table 7-7, Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 2 for Environmental Effects, there are a number of impacts associated with the proposed Village Build -out Plan that are similar to those identified for Alternative 2, Reduced Village Build -out Plan ProjectArea, and these can be mitigated to less than significant levels through measures identified in Table 7-2. These include the following: • Biological Resources • Cultural Resources • Geology and Soils • Hazards and Hazardous Materials • Hydrology and Water Quality Less Impact than the Village Build -out Plan Table 7-7 also shows where impacts associated with Alternative 2 would be less than impacts associated with the proposed project. These are Aesthetics, Air Quality, Noise, Public Services, Population and Housing, Recreation, Traffic and Circulation, and Utilities and Infrastructure. Aesthetics. Because only vacant properties would be developed, and building heights would be in compliance with the Zoning Code (maximum 45 feet), the building density would be similar to existing conditions in the "Old Town" area of the Village (see photos 4 and 5 of Exhibit 4-4 in Chapter 4, Project Description). Photo 4 shows one of the vacant parcels in the Village. Views from public spaces such as sidewalks and public streets would be similar to the view shown in Photo 5 when sites are developed. Air Quality. Under Alternative 2, emissions of criteria pollutants would all be below the SCAQMD thresholds during long-term operation. Noise. Reduced square footage of non-residential uses and number of dwelling units would reduce the number of vehicles entering and driving through the Village, thus reducing impacts associated with traffic noise. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-27 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-7 Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 2 for Environmental Effects La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-28 August 2016 Village Build -out Plan Alternative 2 Difference Aesthetics Building heights of 60 feet Building heights similar, but only vacant Less than significant as fewer properties would be developed, buildings would be developed reducing the potential for taller buildings north of Calle Tampico to block views of scenic resources from public spaces Air Quality Thresholds Significant and Unavoidable for All air emissions are below the Less Than Significant with air (Ib/day) VOC (123.75 Ib/day) SCAQMD thresholds emissions all under SCAQMD VOC 75 NOx 100 NOx (102.9 Ib/day) Thresholds CO 550 SOx 150 CO (754.42 Ib/day) PM10 150 PM2.5 55 Biological Resources Less than significant with Less than significant with mitigation — Similar as any new development mitigation - see Table 7-2 for list see Table 7-2 for list of measures would require compliance with of measures survey requirements Cultural Resources Less than significant with Less than significant with mitigation — Similar as adjacency to existing mitigation — see Table 7-2 for list see Table 7-2 for list of measures historic buildings must be evaluated of measures on a project by project basis Geology and Soils Less than significant with Less than significant with mitigation — Similar as all new development mitigation — see Table 7-2 for list see Table 7-2 for list of measures projects will be required to comply of measures with CBC building standards Greenhouse Gasses Significant and Unavoidable Total Significant and Unavoidable Total Significant and Unavoidable, Metric tons per year Emissions and Emissions per Emissions and Emissions per service although the CO2 emissions per MTCO2e 3,000 service population population Service Population would drop Per Service 37,922.64 MTCO2e/yr and 7.4 13,273 MTCO2e/yr and 2.59 below the threshold of 3 (2.90) and Population 3.0 MTCO2e/SP/yr MTCO2e/SP/yr the amount of CO2 generated would be reduced by 65 percent, the emissions are still above the 3,000 MTCO2e threshold. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-28 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-5 Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 1 for Environmental Effects (continued) La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-29 August 2016 Village Build -out Plan Alternative 1 Difference Hazards and Less than significant with Less than significant with mitigation — Similar, although new non - Hazardous Materials mitigation — see Table 7-2 for list see Table 7-2 for list of measures residential uses could use hazardous of measures materials or generate hazardous waste, they would still be regulated an require permitting Hydrology and Water Less than significant with Less than significant with mitigation — Similar, as development in the Quality mitigation — see Table 7-2 for list see Table 7-2 for list of measures Village will increase the amount of of measures non -pervious surfaces Land Use Less than significant with Less than significant with Similar, as the City would still pursue implementation of Parking implementation of Parking Demand elements of the Build -out Plan Demand Strategies Strategies including Parking Demand Strategies and Traffic Calming Techniques (see Section 7.14) Noise Less than significant with Less than significant with mitigation — Less impact due to fewer vehicles in mitigation — see Table 7-2 for list see Table 7-2 for list of measures the Village, and fewer non - of measures residential uses such as restaurants where night-time noise can be generated Population and 3,198 Residents 1,134 Residents -2,064 Housing No adverse impacts identified No adverse impacts identified No adverse impacts identified but would not meet the City's goal to continue the development of the Village by encouraging additional residential development La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-29 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-5 Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternative 1 for Environmental Effects (continued) Source: Coachella Valley Water District Urban Water Management Plan, 2010, and CalRecycle (www.caIrecycle. ca.gov). 5. Water use: 1) Residential — 55gpd/person @2.6 persons per household = 143 gpd/du. 2) Non-residential — 0.096 gpd/sqft of new commercial/professional. 6. Wastewater Generation: Urban area = 0.85% of water usage. 7. Solid Waste: Residential — 4.7 Ib/day/person x 2.6 persons per household = 12.22 Ib/day. 8. Solid Waste: Non-residential — Specialty Commercial per the TIA consisting of a variety of retail, restaurant and office uses - .006 Ib/sqft/day. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-30 August 2016 Village Build -out Plan Alternative 1 Difference Public Services Less than significant with Less than significant with mitigation — Less impact to public services due to mitigation — see Table 7-2 for list see Table 7-2 for list of measures 65% decrease in residents and non - of measures residential uses Recreation Less than significant impact as the Less than significant impact as the City Less impact to public services due to City will monitor new development will monitor new development to 65% decrease in residents and non - to ensure that public facilities and ensure that public facilities and residential uses infrastructure are adequate to infrastructure are adequate to support support the increase in intensity of the increase in intensity of land uses in land uses in the Village the Village Traffic and Circulation Less than significant with Less than significant with mitigation — Less impact to public services due to mitigation — see Table 7-2 for list see Table 7-2 for list of measures 65% decrease in residents and non - of measures residential uses Utilities and Service Systems Water Use Residential 175,890 gpd 61,562 gpd Less water used Water Use — Non -res' 76,780 gpd 26,873 gpd -164,235 gpd Total 252,670 gpd 88,435 gpd Wastewater 189502 d gpd 75170 d gpd Less wastewater generated Generation , , -114,332 gpd Solid Waste — Res3 15,030 Ib/day 5,261 Ib/day Solid Waste — Non -res' 4,800 Ib/day 1,680 Ib/day -12,889 Ib/day Total 19,830 Ib/day 6,941 Ib/day Source: Coachella Valley Water District Urban Water Management Plan, 2010, and CalRecycle (www.caIrecycle. ca.gov). 5. Water use: 1) Residential — 55gpd/person @2.6 persons per household = 143 gpd/du. 2) Non-residential — 0.096 gpd/sqft of new commercial/professional. 6. Wastewater Generation: Urban area = 0.85% of water usage. 7. Solid Waste: Residential — 4.7 Ib/day/person x 2.6 persons per household = 12.22 Ib/day. 8. Solid Waste: Non-residential — Specialty Commercial per the TIA consisting of a variety of retail, restaurant and office uses - .006 Ib/sqft/day. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-30 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Public Services. Reduced square footage of non-residential uses and number of dwelling units would reduce impacts on public schools police and fire calls, and library use. Population and Housing. A reduction of 794 dwelling units would have a less than significant impact on the amount of housing available in the City, however this reduction and related reduction of 2,064 new residents in the Village would not meet the City's goal to continue the development of the Village to create a vibrant and sustainable neighborhood by encouraging additional residential development. Recreation. Reduced number of dwelling units and related number of residents would reduce the number of residents seeking recreational activities in the Village such as use of the community park, museum, and senior center. Traffic and Circulation. Reduced square footage of non-residential uses and number of dwelling units would reduce the number of vehicles entering and driving through the Village. Similar to the proposed project, road improvements, including roundabouts and bike lanes would be completed under this alternative. Utilities and Infrastructure. Reduced square footage of non-residential uses and number of dwelling units would reduce the amount of water used, and the amount of wastewater and solid waste generated. Similar to the proposed project, utilities and other infrastructure would be upgraded as the Village is built out and the City will track this on a project by project basis, and in coordination with utility providers, so no significant impacts would occur for either the proposed project or this alternative. Significant and Unavoidable Impact Table 7-7 identified one impact associated with Alternative 2, Greenhouse Gas. Under the proposed Village Build -out Plan there were two impacts identified that cannot be reduced to less than significant levels through mitigation; Air Quality and Greenhouse Gases. Greenhouse Gasses — Under the Village Build -out Plan, greenhouse gas emissions during long term operation would be significant for the generation of gross metric tons of CO2 per year (MTCO2e) of 37,9222.64 (3,000 MTY) as well as 7.4 MTCO2e per Service Population (3.0). SCAQMD thresholds are shown in parentheses. Under Alternative 2, greenhouse gas emissions would remain above the SCAQMD threshold at 13,273 MTCO2e, but could be reduced to 2.9 MTCO2e per Service Population. Therefore, although greenhouse gas emissions would be greatly reduced under this alternative, the impact would remain significant and unavoidable. Summary A reduction of 784 new dwelling units and 502,459 square feet of non-residential uses represents a 65% reduction from the Village Build -out Plan. This alternative would result in fewer vehicle trips, with a resulting reduction in air emissions to below the SCAQMD thresholds as shown in Table 7-7. Impacts associated with vehicle trips can be reduced to less than significant levels through the development of traffic calming techniques such as round -abouts at key intersections and adding bicycle/golf cart lanes La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-31 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT to provide options for residents and visitors to get out of their cars. Alternative 2 would result in a significant reduction in air emissions and greenhouse gas emissions, however, build -out under this alternative would still result in emissions CO2 above the threshold (333 MTCO2e). All other impacts associated with the Village Build -out Plan can be reduced to less than significant levels with implementation of mitigation measures. This is also true for Alternative 2, except that with a 65 percent reduction in dwelling units and non-residential uses, water use, wastewater and solid waste generation, and impacts to public services would be less than under the Village Build -out Plan. The City's goal is to continue to develop the Village as a livable and sustainable neighborhood - reminiscent of older cities - where land uses are more interconnected, compact, and offer a mix of uses, providing opportunities for people to live, work, and shop within the neighborhood. In order to achieve this goal, a number of objectives have been identified based on the concept of mixed-use. This alternative would meet this goal, but not to the extent that the Village Build -out Plan would, as this alternative would only accommodate 35 percent of the population and new land uses envisioned in the Plan. 7.5 Alternative Impact Evaluation Table 7-8 Comparison of Village Build -out Plan and Alternatives 7.6 Environmentally Superior Alternative The primary reasons for conducting an Alternatives Analysis in an EIR are to describe a range of reasonable alternatives which would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the project and foster informed decision making and public participation. The State CEQA Guidelines, as amended, also requires that the EIR identify which of the Alternatives would be "environmentally superior." La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-32 August 2016 Project Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Dwelling units Existing 284 284 284 Proposed 1,198 785 434 Total 1,482 1,069 718 Non-residential uses Existing 160,925 160,925 160,925 Proposed 799,786 590,935 297,330 Total 960,925 751,860 458,255 7.6 Environmentally Superior Alternative The primary reasons for conducting an Alternatives Analysis in an EIR are to describe a range of reasonable alternatives which would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the project and foster informed decision making and public participation. The State CEQA Guidelines, as amended, also requires that the EIR identify which of the Alternatives would be "environmentally superior." La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-32 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 7-9 Impact Matrix — Alternatives Relative to the Proposed Project Environmental Impacts of the Superior Alternative Alternative 1 Alternative 2 by Potentially Topic Proposed Project Significant Effect Aesthetics Less than significant Less than Less than Alternative 2 significant significant Air Quality Significant and Significant and Less than Alternative 2 Unavoidable Unavoidable significant Biological Less than significant Less than Less than Alternative 2 Resources with mitigation significant with significant with mitigation mitigation Cultural and Less than significant Less than Less than Alternative 2 Paleontological with mitigation significant with significant with Resources mitigation mitigation Geology and Less than significant Less than Less than Alternative 2 Soils with mitigation significant with significant with mitigation mitigation Greenhouse Gas Significant and Significant and Significant and Alternative 2 Emissions Unavoidable Unavoidable Unavoidable Hazards and Less than significant Less than Less than Alternative 2 Hazardous with mitigation significant with significant with Materials mitigation mitigation Hydrology and Less than significant Less than Less than Alternative 2 Water Quality with mitigation significant with significant with mitigation mitigation Land Use and Less than significant Less than Less than Alternative 2 Planning with mitigation significant with significant with mitigation mitigation Noise Less than significant Less than Less than Alternative 2 with mitigation significant with significant with mitigation mitigation Population and Less than significant Less than Less than Alternative 2 Housing with mitigation significant with significant with mitigation mitigation Public Services Less than significant Less than Less than Alternative 2 with mitigation significant with significant with mitigation mitigation Recreation Less than significant Less than Less than Alternative2 with mitigation significant with significant with mitigation mitigation Transportation / Less than significant Less than Less than Alternative 2 Circulation with mitigation significant with significant with mitigation mitigation Utilities & Less than significant Less than Less than Alternative 2 Service Systems with mitigation significant with significant with mitigation mitigation La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-33 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Environmentally superior generally means "has the least potentially significant overall environmental impact on the environment". Section 15126.6(e)(2) of the State CEQA Guidelines, as amended, also states: "If the environmentally superior alternative is the 'no project' alternative, the EIR shall also identify an environmentally superior alternative among the other alternatives." Section 7.4 presented a summary of the potentially significant impacts of the proposed project and those of each of the two Alternatives considered and evaluated in this EIR. The foregoing was provided in a tabular format to facilitate a comparison of the potentially significant effects of each alternative in comparison to those associated with the proposed project on a topic by topic basis. The data were presented in previous Table 7-2, Impact Matrix — Relative to the Proposed Project. Once completed, the aforementioned comparative impact analysis then served as the basis for determining which Alternative was "environmentally superior" to the others. The procedure by which to arrive at this determination was relatively straightforward. Using the significant environmental effects of the proposed project as the basis for comparison, the potential significance of each impact of each alternative in relation to those of the proposed project was identified and classified as being either similar or just as significant, or less than significant than that of the proposed project on an environmental topic by topic basis. The results are presented in Table 7-9. 7.6.1 Environmentally Superior Alternative The environmentally superior alternative is Alternative 2, Reduced Village Build -out Plan Project Area, where only vacant properties would be developed, representing a 65 percent reduction in the number of dwelling units and square footage of non-residential uses. The Village is the City's traditional commercial core and has remained a focus of the City's economic development strategy since incorporation. Over the years, the City has completed several planning efforts, with varying levels of success. The 2035 General Plan, adopted in 2013, included the Village as a focus area, and added provisions to encourage mixed use development in this area. At this time, development interest in the Village is increasing, and the City wishes to have all the tools it needs in place to encourage and promote development, including the ability for applicants to develop multi -story buildings in order to meet the City's goal for increased density in the Village. The focus of the Village Build -out Plan is on Village Commercial designated properties both vacant and underutilized properties; and to a lesser extent, the Neighborhood Commercial site at the northwest corner of Calle Tampico and Washington Street. The City's goal is to continue to develop the Village as a livable and sustainable neighborhood - reminiscent of older cities - where land uses are more interconnected, compact, and offer a mix of La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-34 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT uses, providing opportunities for people to live, work, and shop within the neighborhood. In order to achieve this goal, a number of objectives have been identified based on the concept of mixed-use. The City's objectives in proposing the Village Build -out Plan are as follows: • Continue the development of the Village as a mixed use neighborhood by encouraging additional residential and commercial development. • Amend the Zoning Code Text forthe Village Commercial District, in the area south of Calle Tampico to allow an increase in building height (subject to site plan review on a project by project basis) to allow an increase in density of residential uses. • Ensure that public facilities and infrastructure are adequate to support the increase in intensity of land uses in the Village. • Capitalize on unique development opportunities in the Village area by focusing on shopping, dining, entertainment, professional and mixed use options while improving the aesthetics of the community. Alternative 2 would meet these objective, but not to the extent that the Village Build -out Plan would because of the economy of scale required to upgrade the public facilities and infrastructure in the Village, including the proposed traffic calming elements such as replacing traditional four way stops with round- abouts, adding additional pedestrian amenities such as wider sidewalks and enhanced crosswalks (i.e. pedestrian activated crosswalk lights), upgrading the drainage system and upgrading the water and sewer lines to accommodate new growth. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-35 August 2016 7 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT This page intentionally left blank. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 7-36 August 2016 8 EIR PREPARATION Chapter 8 EIR Preparation 8.1 Lead Agency City of La Quinta 78-495 Calle Tampico La Quinta, CA 92253 Gabriel Perez, Development Services Planning Manager Bryan McKinney, P.E., Development Services Principal Engineer Nicole Criste, Contract Planner Nazir Lalani, P.E., Contract Traffic Engineer 8.2 EIR Preparation Team EIR Preparation The Altum Group 73-710 Fred Waring Drive, Suite, 219 Palm Desert, CA 92260 Nancy Ferguson, Environmental Planning Manager Cheri Flores, Project Planner Jon Braginton, Project Planner Audrey Nickerson, Planner Douglas Kinley, Planner Michelle Vecsernyes, Project Coordinator Erika Sinihuiz, Project Coordinator Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Assessment Kunzman and Associates, Inc. 1111 Town and Country Rd #34 Orange, CA 92868 Carl Ballard, LEED GA, Principal Katie Wilson, M.S., Senior Associate Catherine Howe, M.S., Associate La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 8-1 August 2016 8 EIR PREPARATION Cultural Resources Applied Earthworks 133 N. San Gabriel Blvd. Suite 201 Pasadena, CA 91107-3414 (626) 578-0119 Colleen Hamilton, Architectural Historian Hydrology Study The Altum Group 73-710 Fred Waring Drive, Suite, 219 Palm Desert, CA 92260 James Bazua, P.E., Engineering Division Chief Traffic Impact Analysis Kunzman and Associates, Inc. 1111 Town and Country Rd #34 Orange, CA 92868 Giancarlo Ganddini, T.E., Senior Traffic Engineer Carl Ballard, LEED GA, Principal La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 8-2 August 2016 9 REFERENCES Chapter 9 References Chapter 5 Environmental Impact Analysis Section 5.1 Aesthetics City of La Quinta, La Quinta General Plan 2035, Land Use Element, 2013. Terra Nova Planning and Research, Inc., City of La Quinta General Plan 2035 Program EIR, City of La Quinta, July 2012. Village at La Quinta Design Guidelines, 1998. Site visits to identify and document existing conditions and take photographs. Section 5.2 Air Quality Kunzman and Associates Inc., La Quinta Build -Out Plan Air Quality and Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, March 2016. Kunzman and Associates Inc., La Quinta Build -Out Plan Traffic Impact Analysis, March 2016. Section 5.3 Biological Resources AMEC Earth & Environmental, Inc., City of La Quinta General Plan Update: Biological Resources, June 2010. City of La Quinta, General Plan 2035, Chapter Ill, Natural Resources, Biological Resources, 2013. Terra Nova Planning and Research, Inc., City of La Quinta General Plan 2035 Program EIR, City of La Quinta, July 2012. California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation, March 2012. Section 5.4 Cultural Resources CRM TECH, Summary of Findings: Citywide Historical Resources Survey Update, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California, 2006 City of La Quinta, Summary of Findings: Citywide Historical Resources Survey Update, 1996-1997 and 2006, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California, 2012 Governor's Office of Planning and Research, Discussion Draft Technical Advisory: AB52 and Tribal Cultural Resources in CEQA, May 2015. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 9-1 August 2016 9 REFERENCES Mellon and Associates, City of La Quinta Historic Context Statement. On file, City of La Quinta Planning Department, 1997. Mellon and Associates, City of La Quinta Historic Resources Survey. On file, City of La Quinta Planning Department, 1997. Section 5.5 Geology and Soils City of La Quinta, 2035 General Plan, Environmental Hazards Element, 2013. Terra Nova Planning and Research, Inc., City of La Quinta General Plan 2035 Program EIR, City of La Quinta, July 2012. Natural Resources Conservation Service, Custom Soil Resource Report for La Quinta Village, February 9, 2016. (Appendix C) United States Geological Services, California Water Science Center, Land Subsidence in the Coachella Valley, accessed July 29, 2016, http://www.la-guinta.org/your-government/community- services/senior-services. Section 5.6 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Kunzman and Associates Inc., La Quinta Build -Out Plan Air Quality and Global Climate Change Impact Analysis, March 2016. Terra Nova Planning and Research, Inc., City of La Quinta Greenhouse Gas Inventory and Reduction Plan, February 2013. Section 5.7 Hazards and Hazardous Materials Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), Envirostor database, accessed March 28, 2016, http://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public/ City of La Quinta, 2035 General Plan, Environmental Hazards Element, February 19, 2013. Terra Nova Planning and Research, Inc., City of La Quinta General Plan 2035 Program EIR, City of La Quinta, July 2012. EDR, Historical Topographic Map Report, La Quinta Village, October 14, 2015. (Appendix D) Environmental Protection Agency Website, Waste- Hazardous Waste- Waste Types, http://www3.epa.gov/epawaste/hazard/wastetypes/index.htm, accessed October 23, 2015. Environmental Protection Agency Website, Summary of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, http://www2.epa.gov/laws-regulations/summary-resource-conservation-and-recovery-act, accessed October 23, 2015. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 9-2 August 2016 9 REFERENCES Section 5.8 Hydrology and Water Quality Michael Baker International (February 2016) City of La Quinta Focused Area Drainage Study Psomas, Downtown Area Drainage Study for City of La Quinta, January 2008. Psomas, City of La Quinta Master Drainage Plan, March 2009. FEMA, Flood Insurance Rate Map (Panel #06065C2241G), August 28, 2008. Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (April 1978) Hydrology Manual Section 5.9 Land Use and Planning City of La Quinta, 2035 General Plan, Land Use Element, February 19, 2013. Section 5.10 Noise City of La Quinta, 2035 General Plan, Environmental Hazards Element, 2013. Terra Nova Planning and Research Inc., La Quinta General Plan 2035 Program EIR, City of La Quinta, July 2012. City of La Quinta, La Quinta Municipal Code, 1996. Section 5.11 Population and Housing City of La Quinta, 2035 General Plan, Housing Element, 2014. Section 5.12 Public Services City of La Quinta, 2035 General Plan, Public Infrastructure and Services Element, 2013. Desert Sands Unified School District, Fee Justification Study, 2014. http://www.govtech.com/infographics/The-Changing-Face-of-Public-Libraries-Infogra phic.htm1, accessed June 17, 2016. City of La Quinta, Development Impact Fee Study (Final), February 5, 2013. County of Riverside, Riverside County Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Master Plan, January 2, 1986. Riverside County Fire Department Strategic Planning, Terra Nova Personal communication, Jason Newman, December 22, 2010. Management Partners, Inc., Riverside County Fire Department Strategic Plan 2009-2029, November 2009. La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 9-3 August 2016 9 REFERENCES Coachella Unified School District, Facilities: Demographics, http://www.coachella.kl2.ca.us/interport/default.aspx?tabid=59, accessed November 23, 2010. Section 5.13 Recreation City of La Quinta, 2035 General Plan, Parks, Recreation, and Trails Element, 2013. City of La Quinta, Development Impact Fee Study (Final), February 5, 2013. City of La Quinta Website, Wellness Center, Accessed July 30, 2016, http://www.la-guinta.org/your- government/community-services/senior-services. Section 5.14 Traffic and Circulation Kunzman Associates, La Quinta Village Build -out Plan Traffic Impact Analysis, May 2016 Section 5.15 Utilities and Service Systems City of La Quinta, 2035 General Plan, Public Infrastructure and Services Element, 2013. Terra Nova Planning and Research, Inc., La Quinta General Plan 2035 Program EIR, City of La Quinta, 2013. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery, FaclT Conversion Table 1 - Material Type Equivalency Factors, http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/FacIT/Conversionl.pdf, accessed July 12, 2016. Chapter 6 Other CEQA Required Sections Section 6.3 Significant Irreversible Environmental Changes Department of Conservation, Office of Mine Reclamation website accessed June 22, 2016, OMR Data on Mine Operations. Imperial Irrigation District, http://www.iid.com/energy, accessed June 22, 2016. State Mining and Geology Board, 2009, Public Hearing: Consideration of Designation, and Termination of Designation, of Mineral Resources Lands of Statewide or Regional Significance, Palm Springs Production -Consumption Region, Riverside County, California La Quinta Village Build -out Plan EIR 9-4 August 2016