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Home My WebLink AboutCombined Dune Palms PES PackageCT9.29.14Chapter 6 Local Assistance Procedures Manual Environmental Procedures Page 6-73 OB 13-02 March 14, 2013 EXHIBIT 6-A PRELIMINARY ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY (PES) Federal Project No.:BLRKS-5433(014)Final Design:April 2015 (Federal Program Prefix-Project No., Agreement No.)(Expected Start Date) To:Sean Yeung, Acting Office Chief From:City of La Quinta (District Local Assistance Engineer)(Local Agency) District 8 - Division of Planning and Local Assistance Edward J. Wimmer, P.E. (District)(Project Manager’s Name and Telephone No.) 464 West 4th Street, 6th Floor, MS 760, San Bernardino, CA 92401-1400 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA 92253 (Address)(Address) Sean.Yeung@dot.ca.gov ewimmer@la-quinta.org (Email Address)(Email Address) Is this Project “ON” the Yes State Highway System? No IF YES, STOP HERE and contact the District Local Assistance Engineer regarding the completion of other environmental documentation. Federal State Transportation Improvement Program (FSTIP)http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/transprog/fedpgm.htm: http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/transprog/oftmp.htm Final 2013 FTIP 7 of 30 (Currently Adopted Plan Date)(Page No.___ attach to this form) Programming for FSTIP: (in $000’s) Preliminary Engineering Right of Way Construction 2012 $1,750 2015/2016 $545 2017/2018 $15,215 (Fiscal Year)(Dollars)(Fiscal Year)(Dollars)(Fiscal Year)(Dollars) Project Description as Shown in RTP and FSTIP: In eastern Riverside County in the City of La Quinta- On Dune Palms Rd: Replace 3-lane low water crossing with 4 lane bridge over the Coachella Valley Storm Water Channel (Whitewater River-Bridge No. 00L0070) Detailed Project Description:(Describe the following, as applicable: purpose and need, project location and limits, required right of way acquisition, proposed facilities, staging areas, disposal and borrow sites, construction activities, and construction access.) See Continuation Sheet for complete project description and purpose and need (Continue description on “Notes” sheet, last page of this Exhibit, if necessary) Preliminary Design Information: Does the project involve any of the following? Please check the appropriate boxes and delineate on an attached map, plan, or layout including any additional pertinent information. Yes No Yes No Yes No Widen existing roadway Ground disturbance Easements Increase number of through lanes Road cut/fill Equipment staging New alignment Excavation: anticipated Temporary access road/detour Capacity increasing—other maximum depth 80-100 ft.Utility relocation (e.g., channelization)Right of way acquisition Drainage/culverts (if yes, attach map with APN) Realignment Flooding protection Ramp or street closure Stream channel work Disposal/borrow sites Bridge work Pile driving Part of larger adjacent project Vegetation removal Tree removal Demolition Railroad Required Attachments: Exhibit 6-A Local Assistance Procedures Manual Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-74 March 14, 2013 OB 13-02 Regional map Project location map Project footprint map (existing/proposed right of way) Engineering drawings (existing and proposed cross sections), if available Borrow/disposal site location map, if applicable (Note: all maps (except project location map and regional maps) should be consistent with the project description (minimum scale: 1" = 200').) Notes to support the conclusions of this checklist/project description continuation page (attached) Examine the project for potential effects on the environment, direct or indirect and answer the following questions. The “construction area,” as specified below, includes all areas of ground disturbance associated with the project, including staging and stockpiling areas and temporary access roads. Each answer must be briefly documented on the “Notes” pages at the end of the PES Form. A. Potential Environmental Effects Yes To Be Determined No General 1. Will the project require future construction to fully utilize the design capabilities included in the proposed project? 2. Will the project generate public controversy? Noise 3. Is the project a Type I project as defined in 23 CFR 772.5(h); “construction on new location or the physical alteration of an existing highway, which significantly changes either the horizontal or vertical alignment or increases the number of through-traffic lanes”? 4. Does the project have the potential for adverse construction-related noise impact (such as related to pile driving)? Air Quality 5. Is the project in a NAAQS non-attainment or maintenance area? 6. Is the project exempt from the requirement that a conformity determination be made? (If “Yes,” state which conformity exemption in 40 CFR 93.126, Table 2 applies): __________________ 7. Is the project exempt from regional conformity? (If “Yes,” state which conformity exemption in 40 CFR 93.127, Table 3 applies): 8. If project is not exempt from regional conformity, (If “No” on Question #7) Is project in a metropolitan non-attainment/maintenance area? Is project in an isolated rural non-attainment area? Is project in a CO, PM10 and/or PM2.5 non-attainment/maintenance area? Hazardous Materials/Hazardous Waste 9. Is there potential for hazardous materials (including underground or aboveground tanks, etc.) or hazardous waste (including oil/water separators, waste oil, asbestos-containing material, lead-based paint, ADL, etc.) within or immediately adjacent to the construction area? Water Quality/Resources 10. Does the project have the potential to impact water resources (rivers, streams, bays, inlets, lakes, drainage sloughs) within or immediately adjacent to the project area? 11. Is the project within a designated sole-source aquifer? Coastal Zone 12. Is the project within the State Coastal Zone, San Francisco Bay, or Suisun Marsh? Floodplain 13. Is the construction area located within a regulatory floodway or within the base floodplain (100-year) elevation of a watercourse or lake? Wild and Scenic Rivers 14. Is the project within or immediately adjacent to a Wild and Scenic River System? Biological Resources 15. Is there a potential for federally listed threatened or endangered species, or their critical habitat or essential fish habitat to occur within or adjacent to the construction area? Local Assistance Procedures Manual Exhibit 6-A Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-75 OB 13-02 March 14, 2013 16. Does the project have the potential to directly or indirectly affect migratory birds, or their nests or eggs (such as vegetation removal, box culvert replacement/repair, bridge work, etc.)? 17. Is there a potential for wetlands to occur within or adjacent to the construction area? 18. Is there a potential for agricultural wetlands to occur within or adjacent to the construction area? 19. Is there a potential for the introduction or spread of invasive plant species? Sections 4(f) and 6(f) 20. Are there any historic sites or publicly owned public parks, recreation areas, wildlife or waterfowl refuges (Section 4[f]) within or immediately adjacent to the construction area? 21. Does the project have the potential to affect properties acquired or improved with Land and Water Conservation Fund Act (Section 6[f]) funds? Visual Resources 22. Does the project have the potential to affect any visual or scenic resources? Relocation Impacts 23. Will the project require the relocation of residential or business properties? Land Use, Community, and Farmland Impacts 24. Will the project require any right of way, including partial or full takes? Consider construction easements and utility relocations. 25. Is the project inconsistent with plans and goals adopted by the community? 26. Does the project have the potential to divide or disrupt neighborhoods/communities? 27. Does the project have the potential to disproportionately affect low-income and minority populations? 28. Will the project require the relocation of public utilities? 29. Will the project affect access to properties or roadways? 30. Will the project involve changes in access control to the State Highway System (SHS)? 31. Will the project involve the use of a temporary road, detour, or ramp closure? 32. Will the project reduce available parking? 33. Will the project construction encroach on state or federal lands? 34. Will the project convert any farmland to a different use or impact any farmlands? Cultural Resources (reserved for PQS to answer) 35. Is there National Register listed, or potentially eligible historic properties, or archaeological resources within or immediately adjacent to the construction area? (Note: Caltrans PQS answers question #35 ) 36. Is the project adjacent to, or would it encroach on Tribal land? For Sections B, C, and D, check appropriate box to indicate required technical studies, coordination, permits, or approvals. B. Required Technical Studies and Analyses C. Coordination D. Anticipated Actions/Permits/Approvals Traffic Check one: Traffic Study Caltrans Approval Technical Memorandum Caltrans Approval Discussion in ED Only Caltrans Approval Noise Check as applicable: Traffic Related Construction Related Exhibit 6-A Local Assistance Procedures Manual Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-76 March 14, 2013 OB 13-02 Check one: Noise Study Report Caltrans Approval NADR Caltrans Approval Technical Memorandum Caltrans Approval Discussion in ED Only Caltrans Approval Air Quality Check as applicable: Traffic Related Construction Related Check one: Air Quality Report Caltrans Approval Technical Memorandum Caltrans Approval Discussion in ED Only Caltrans Approval FHWA Conformity Finding (23 USC 327 CEs, EAs, EISs) Caltrans Conformity Finding ( 23 USC 326 CEs) Regional Agency PM10/PM2.5 Interagency Consultation Hazardous Materials/ Hazardous Waste Check as applicable: Initial Site Assessment (Phase 1) Caltrans Approval Preliminary Site Assessment (Phase 2) Caltrans Approval Discussion in ED Only Caltrans Approval Cal EPA DTSC Review Database Local Agency Review Database Water Quality/Resources Check as applicable: Water Quality Assess. Report Caltrans Approval Technical Memorandum Caltrans Approval Discussion in ED Only Caltrans Approval Sole-Source Aquifer (Districts 5, 6 and 11) EPA (S.F. Regional Office) Approval of Analysis in ED Coastal Zone CCC Coastal Zone Consistency Determination Local Assistance Procedures Manual Exhibit 6-A Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-77 OB 13-02 March 14, 2013 B.Required Technical Studies and Analyses C. Coordination D. Anticipated Actions/Permits/Approvals Floodplain Check as applicable: Location Hydraulic Study Caltrans Approval Floodplain Evaluation Report Caltrans Approval Summary Floodplain Encroachment Report Caltrans Approval Caltrans Only Practicable Alternative Finding FHWA Approves significant encroachments and concurs in Only Practicable Alternative Findings Wild and Scenic Rivers River Managing Agency Wild and Scenic Rivers Determination Biological Resources Check as applicable: NES, Minimal Impact Caltrans Approval NES BA Caltrans Approves for Consultation USFWS Section 7 Informal/Formal Consultation NOAA Fisheries EFH Evaluation NOAA Fisheries MSA Consultation Bio-Acoustic Evaluation NOAA Fisheries Approval Technical Memorandum Caltrans Approval Wetlands Check as applicable: WD and Assessment Caltrans Approval ACOE Wetland Verification NRCS Agricultural Wetland Verification Caltrans Wetlands Only Practicable Alternative Finding Invasive Plants Discussion in ED Only Caltrans Approval Section 4(f) Check as applicable: Caltrans Determine Temporary Occupancy De minimis Caltrans De minimis finding Programmatic 4(f) Evaluation Caltrans Approval Type: ___________________ Individual 4(f) Evaluation Caltrans Approval Agency with Jurisdiction SHPO DOI HUD USDA Exhibit 6-A Local Assistance Procedures Manual Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-78 March 14, 2013 OB 13-02 B.Required Technical Studies and Analyses C. Coordination D. Anticipated Actions/Permits/Approvals Section 6(f) Agency with Jurisdiction NPS Determines Consistency with Long-Term Management Plan NPS Approves Conversion Visual Resources Technical Memorandum Caltrans Approval Minor VIA Caltrans Approval Moderate VIA Caltrans Approval Advance/Complex VIA Caltrans Approval Relocation Impacts Check one: Relocation Impact Memo Caltrans Approval Relocation Impact Study Caltrans Approval Relocation Impact Report Caltrans Approval Land Use and Community Impacts Check one: CIA Caltrans Approval Technical Memorandum Caltrans Approval Discussion in ED Only Caltrans Approval Construction/Encroachment on State Lands Check as applicable: SLC Jurisdiction SLC SLC Lease Caltrans Jurisdiction Caltrans Encroachment Permit SP Jurisdiction SP Encroachment Permit Construction/Encroachment on Federal Lands Federal Agency with Jurisdiction Encroachment Permit Construction/Encroachment On Indian Trust Lands Bureau of Indian Affairs Right of Way Permit Farmlands Check one: CIA Caltrans Approval Technical Memorandum Caltrans Approval Discussion in ED Only Caltrans Approval Check as applicable: Form AD 1006 NRCS Approves Conversion CDOC Approves Conversion Conversion to Non-Agri Use ACOE Local Assistance Procedures Manual Exhibit 6-A Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-79 OB 13-02 March 14, 2013 B. Required Technical Studies and Analyses C.Coordination D. Anticipated Actions/Permits/ Approvals Cultural Resources (PQS completes this section) Check as applicable: Caltrans PQS Screened Undertaking APE Map Caltrans PQS and DLAE Approves APE Map Local Preservation Groups and/or Native American Tribes Provides Comments Regarding Concerns with Project HPSR Caltrans Approves for Consultation ASR HRER Finding of Effect Report Caltrans Concurs on No Effect, No Adverse Effect with Standard Conditions SHPO Letter of Concurrence on Eligibility, No Adverse Effect without Standard MOA Caltrans Approves MOA SHPO Approves MOA ACHP (if requested) Approves MOA Permits Copies of permits and a list of ACOE Section 404 Nationwide Permit mitigation commitments are ACOE Section 404 Individual Permit mandatory submittals following Caltrans/ACOE/EPA NEPA/404 Integration MOU NEPA approval. USFWS NOAA Fisheries ACOE Rivers and Harbors Act Section 10 Permit USCG USCG Bridge Permit RWQCB Section 401 Water Quality Certification CDFG Section 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreement RWQCB NPDES Permit CCC Coastal Zone Permit Local Agency BCDC BCDC Permit Notes: Additional studies may be required for other federal agencies. Exhibit 6-A Local Assistance Procedures Manual Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-80 March 14, 2013 OB 13-02 ACHP = Advisory Council on Historic Preservation ACOE = U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ADL = Aerially Deposited Lead APE = Area of Potential Effect APN = Assessor Parcel Number ASR = Archaeological Survey Report BA = Biological Assessment BCDC = Bay Conservation and Development Commission BE = Biological Evaluation BO = Biological Opinion Cal EPA = California Environmental Protection Agency CCC = California Coastal Commission CDFG = California Department of Fish and Game CDOC = California Department of Conservation CE = Categorical Exclusion CIA = Community Impact Assessment CWA = Clean Water Act DLAE = District Local Assistance Engineer DOI = U.S. Department of Interior DTSC = Department of Toxic Substances Control EA = Environmental Assessment ED = Environmental Document EFH = Essential Fish Habitat EIS = Environmental Impact Statement EPA = U.S. Environmental Protection Agency FEMA = Federal Emergency Management Agency FHWA = Federal Highway Administration FONSI = Finding of No Significant Impacted FTIP = Federal Transportation Improvement Program HPSR = Historic Property Survey Report HRER = Historical Resources Evaluation Report HUD = U.S. Housing and Urban Development MOA = Memorandum of Agreement MSA = Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act NEPA = National Environmental Policy Act NADR = Noise Abatement Decision Report NES = Natural Environment Study NHPA = National Historic Preservation Act NOAA = National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service NPDES = National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System NPS = National Park Service NRCS = Natural Resources Conservation Service PM10 = Particulate Matter 10 Microns in Diameter or Less PM2.5 = Particulate Matter 2.5 Microns in Diameter or Less PMP = Project Management Plan PQS = Professionally Qualified Staff ROD = Record of Decision RTIP = Regional Transportation Improvement Program RTP = Regional Transportation Plan RWQCB = Regional Water Quality Control Board SER = Standard Environmental Reference SEP = Senior Environmental Planner SHPO = State Historic Preservation Officer SLC = State Lands Commission SP = State Parks TIP = Transportation Improvement Program USCG = U.S. Coast Guard USDA = U.S. Department of Agriculture USFWS = U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service WD = Wetland Delineation Local Assistance Procedures Manual Exhibit 6-A Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-83 OB 13-02 March 14, 2013 Preliminary Environmental Investigation Notes to Support the Conclusions of the PES Form (May Also Include Continuation of Detailed Project Description) Project Purpose The purpose of the project is to replace the existing low-water crossing spanning the Coachella Valley Storm Water Channel (CVSWC) at Dune Palms Road with an all-weather access. The proposed improvements will accomplish the following: 1.Provide reliable route for emergency vehicles, motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists traveling the corridor 2.Provide safe access across the CVSWC (Whitewater River) and along the corridor during all- weather events 3.Improve traffic circulation Project Need Dune Palms Road serves as a vital north/south link for emergency services, as well as, La Quinta High, John Glen Middle and Amelia Earhart Elementary Schools. It also provides connectivity of the city residential development north of the Channel with the Highway 111 commercial corridor located south of the CVSWC. (Please see attached Vicinity and Location Maps) The CVSWC conveys storm water runoff from the surrounding mountains as well as developed areas within the Coachella Valley. The elevation of the existing Dune Palms Road low-water crossing causes it to flood during minor rain events (2-year frequency) and results in full street closure and detour of both vehicle and pedestrian traffic. In the interest of public health and safety, and in response to community concerns regarding frequent closures of the low-water crossing, the City of La Quinta has determined that replacement of the low-water crossing with a new bridge is needed to ensure that all- weather access is maintained. Project Description The existing low-water roadway crossing width is 68 feet that allows for a four lane roadway section with no median, eight foot wide sidewalk along the western edge, and an eight foot shoulder along the eastern edge of the road. Immediately north of the channel crossing, the existing right-of-way width does accommodate a second northbound through lane. In addition, Dune Palms Road approximately one-quarter mile north of the channel low-water crossing is a four lane roadway with a median. Immediately south of the channel crossing, the existing roadway width is sufficient to accommodate four through lanes. The existing adjacent roadway approach from the south consists of one northbound and two southbound through lanes and the northern roadway approach consists of one through lanes in each direction. The transition from one to two lanes in the southbound direction occurs at the midpoint of the channel crossing. The project proposes to remove the existing low-water crossing of Dune Palms Road at the CVSWC in the City of La Quinta, Riverside County. A bridge will be constructed to replace the existing low-water crossing of the Coachella Valley Storm Water Channel. The project will replace the existing concrete roadway with 480 feet long and 86 feet wide three-span bridge. The bridge typical section consists of six-foot sidewalk on both sides of the bridge, two (2) eight-foot outside shoulders also serving as bike/golf cart lanes, a 9’8” raised median, two (2) eleven-foot travel lanes, and two (2) twelve-foot travel lanes. Exhibit 6-A Local Assistance Procedures Manual Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-84 March 14, 2013 OB 13-02 The bridge will increase the existing roadway width to accommodate a median area; however, the existing configuration will be modified to accommodate the existing four lane roadway section to the south, and the City’s current improvement project to the north, which will widen Dune Palms Road to four lanes with a continuous center left-turn lane. The proposed improvements will include a significant vertical grade raise to meet the hydraulic requirements of the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD). The roadway at the bridge approach will be reconstructed to accommodate the raised profile. In order to match the roadway section on the south side of the bridge, the project’s construction limits will be extended to State Route 111. On the north side of the bridge, the project limits will be extended to include a vacant lot north of the project area. The vacant lot is owned by the City and may be used for storage and construction staging. As a part of the bridge construction, concrete slope protection will be installed along the north side of the channel. Additionally, minor removal and replacement of slope protection will be required on the south side of channel west of the proposed bridge and extension of slope protection approximately 300 feet downstream of the proposed bridge. The slope protection will be based on revised CVWD standards for scour countermeasures. As a result of the proposed cast-in-place drilled shaft bridge construction, scour protection within the bottom of the channel should not be required. The project will also require utility relocations for overhead electrical distribution lines (Imperial Irrigation District facility), adjustment to both water valve can and lids and the manhole covers, minor 12” ductile iron pipe water main relocations at each bridge abutment, and relocation of both a 12” and 18” sewer line at the northern bridge abutment. The bridge design will incorporate a special architectural treatment on the bridge railing to achieve the community design goals. Both the north and southbound street approaches will incorporate alternative strategies that will reduce bridge deck noise levels. In addition, the project will follow current Caltrans Design Memo’s for reducing noise generated from traditional concrete bridge decks. The Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) and the communities within the Coachella Valley are working together on the implementation of a regional Bike/Pedestrian/NEV corridor (CV Link) along Whitewater River and Coachella Valley Storm Water Channel. In accordance with this plan, the project will be designed to allow for the integration of a trail under crossing within the southern slope protection. It also includes a trail connector to the pedestrian and bike facilities along Dune Palms Road. The project will require right-of- way acquisition on the northeast and southeast corners of the proposed bridge. The existing development at the northwest corner of the proposed bridge consists of a manufactured home park with one single family home all inclusive on the same parcel of land. However, the existing mobile home park has a number of encroachments with site improvements within the street right of way. The project may require the acquisition and relocation of one single-family residence as a result of the raise in street grade for the proposed bridge. In addition, the project may need to acquire and relocate the residents of one mobile home located to the north of the single family residence. However, the project will be designed to avoid relocation impacts, pending approval by the property owners of a partial property acquisition and access modification. The existing roadway will be modified as a temporary bypass to allow for staged construction of the bridge, and to maintain vehicle and pedestrian access at all times. Temporary and short term access impact may occur during construction, and will require coordination with property owners, the public, and other stakeholders. Local Assistance Procedures Manual Exhibit 6-A Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-85 OB 13-02 March 14, 2013 Brief Explanation of How Project Complies, or Will Comply with Applicable Federal Mandate (Part A): 1.The proposed project can operate independently to improve the reliability of the route and provide safe access to the public during any type of weather conditions. The project will replace the existing Dune Palms Road crossing with a bridge that provides an all-weather crossing. The existing low-water roadway crossing is 68 feet wide, and accommodates a four lane roadway section, eight foot wide sidewalk along the western edge and an eight foot shoulder along the eastern edge of the road. Dune Palms Road is classified as a four lane divided roadway per the City General Plan. The all-weather crossing will be constructed to the width of 86 feet in order to accommodate the same number of lanes as the existing facility width, and to add shoulders and sidewalks on both sides of the roadway with a raised median. The proposed crossing is consistent with the City plan for the facility, and will be widened to provide continuation to the improved adjacent sections of the roadway. 2.The proposed project would result in a transportation route that is safer for the public during all weather conditions, and one that improves pedestrian and bicycle travel along the channel crossing. In addition, the project accommodates plans for the Regional Bicycle/Pedestrian/NEV Corridor supported by the local communities. Furthermore, the project is anticipated to have a beneficial impact on the natural environment as it removes the concrete roadway from the channel, and allows for the natural flow of water and wildlife access. There are no controversial issues identified relative to the project, and it is not anticipated that the project will generate any public controversy. 3.For projects with noise studies completed after July 13, 2011, a Type 1 project will be defined as a federal or federal aid project for: (1) the construction of a highway on a new location; or (2) the physical alteration of an existing highway where there is either: (a) Substantial horizontal alteration, or (b) substantial vertical alteration; or (3) the addition of a through-traffic lane(s). This includes the addition of a through-traffic lane that functions as a high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane, high-occupancy toll (HOT) lane, bus lane, or truck climbing lane, or (4) the addition of an auxiliary lane, except for when the auxiliary lane is a turn lane, or (5) the addition or relocation of interchange lanes or ramps added to a quadrant to complete an existing partial interchange, or (6) restriping existing pavement for the purpose of adding a through traffic lane or an auxiliary lane. According to the federal definition, the project is considered to be a Type 1 project. Due to the project proximity to sensitive noise receptors including a school, several residences, and medical center, a Noise Study Report is required to determine the project noise impacts and to consider noise abatement measures, such as sound walls. A Noise Abatement Decision Report may be required, if abatement measures are required, to determine if the proposed noise abatement is reasonable and feasible. The project design will include alternative strategies that will reduce bridge deck noise level as a result of absorbing and reducing vehicle traffic noise. In addition, the project will follow current Caltrans Design Memo’s for reducing noise generated from traditional concrete bridge decks. 4.The project will require demolition of the existing low water crossing, as well as pile driving during construction to allow for bridge construction. Construction activities associated with the proposed project may result in noise impacts to adjacent sensitive land uses. Construction noise impacts are temporary and limited to the construction period. A Noise Study Report will address construction noise impacts and potential abatement measures per Caltrans’ Standard Specifications and Provisions (SSPs), Section 7-1.01I, 5-1, Sound Control Requirements. Exhibit 6-A Local Assistance Procedures Manual Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-86 March 14, 2013 OB 13-02 5.The proposed project site is located within the Salton Sea Air Basin (SSAB), which is currently in non-attainment per National Ambient Air Quality (NAAQ) standards for Ozone and Particulate Matter 10 microns or less (PM 10). 6.This project is not one of the types included in 40 CFR 93.126 Table 2. The existing facility width accommodates four travel lanes with no median, but is striped for two lanes southbound, and one lane north bound. The all-weather crossing will be constructed to accommodate the same number of travel lanes and a median. The City of La Quinta plans to widen Dune Palms roadway north of the all-weather crossing to a four lane facility with a median. The crossing will be striped to four lanes to match the Dune Palms Road Improvement Project. Therefore, this project is not exempt from the requirement that an air quality conformity determination be made. 7.The project is not a type included in 40 CFR 93.127, Table 3. A project-level conformity determination is required, including regional emissions analysis and hot spot analysis. 8.A project-level conformity determination is required for this project, including both the regional emissions analysis and a hot spot analysis. For the regional emissions analysis, the project is included in the 2013 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) and Draft 2015 FTIP, Project ID RIV 121202. A localized hot spot analysis is required because the project is located in a nonattainment area for PM 10 The short-term impacts to air quality would occur during earthwork, restriping, and construction activities. Additional sources of construction-related emissions include exhaust emissions and potential odors from construction equipment used onsite, as well as the vehicles used to transport materials to and from the site. The short-term air quality impacts from construction of the proposed project would be minimized with implementation of the required South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) standard construction measures, as well as the City of La Quinta’s standard specifications for construction. Due to the limited area that would be disturbed during construction and the temporary nature of construction activities, construction emissions are not anticipated to exceed the SCAQMD standards. The project may qualify for a Categorical Exclusion under NEPA Assignment 23 USC 327, as an activity listed in 23 CFR 771.117 Activity (d)(1) “Modernization of a highway by resurfacing, restoration, rehabilitation, reconstruction, adding shoulders, or adding auxiliary lanes” with unusual circumstances. An Air Quality Report will be prepared for the project to provide documentation for FHWA air conformity determination. 9.The project will require excavation within an area with potential for the presence of contaminants associated with the type of facility and the use by vehicles. There is a potential for impacts during construction activities due to the presence of hazardous material such as, lead-based paint and Aerially Deposited Lead (ADL). The project will also require the acquisition of new right-of-way from an area with existing residential and some vacant land. Other surrounding land uses include a high school, medical center, residences, and vacant land. There are no signs of any other past or present hazardous materials or waste uses, or any known hazardous materials within or immediately adjacent to the construction area. The evaluation of potential hazardous waste/material associated with the acquired property and other properties adjacent to the construction area will be required. An Initial Study Assessment will be completed to evaluate the potential for hazardous materials to be released during demolition and/or construction activities. Local Assistance Procedures Manual Exhibit 6-A Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-87 OB 13-02 March 14, 2013 10.The proposed project will replace the existing low-water crossing at Dune Palms Road with an “All-Weather Crossing.” The construction and operation of the new crossing may impact water resources as the bridge crosses the CVSWC and requires work within the channel. The Coachella Valley Storm Water Channel is a water body on the 303(d) list, with a TMDL for several pollutants. A water quality assessment will be required to evaluate the project impact on water quality. The project may be required to implement permanent and construction Best Management Practices (BMP)s to ensure avoidance and minimization of operation and construction impacts to water resources. The vertical grade of the crossing will meet the hydraulic requirements of the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD). However the bridge project involves the dredging and/or filling in waters of the US, and will require coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a Section 404 Nationwide permit. It will also require a 401 Certification from the Regional Water Quality Control Board, and Section 1602 Agreement with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. In addition, compliance with Section 402 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit will be required. 11.The proposed project is not located within a sole-source aquifer. 12.The proposed project is not located within the State Coastal Zone, San Francisco Bay, or Suisun Marsh. 13.The project area is located within a 100-year floodplain. However, the bridge will be constructed to avoid potential flooding risks to the roadway and traffic. Furthermore, the proposed bridge structure is not anticipated to significantly impede water flow or create an obstruction within the floodplain. The construction of the bridge is not anticipated to encroach on the base floodplain. A Hydraulic Study and Summary Floodplain Encroachment report will be prepared to document the evaluation. 14.The Whitewater River is not listed as a Wild and Scenic River in the National System of Wild and Scenic Rivers. Therefore, the proposed project is not located within or immediately adjacent to a Wild and Scenic River. 15.The project is located within the Whitewater River, but mostly surrounded with a combination of built environment and open space. There are no federal or state listed threatened and/or endangered species within a quarter mile of the project area according to the California Natural Diversity Database, August 2014. The Critical habitat data from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service also indicates that there are no critical habitats within the study area. The project is not expected to have any impacts on biological resources. However, the project is located within the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan & National Community Conservation Plan. The project may be required to comply with any applicable land use and conservation requirements. 16.Minimal impact to existing trees is anticipated, therefore, the project may have the potential to affect migratory birds, since vegetation removal is required for the construction of the bridge. Required measures to protect migratory birds will be documented and implemented as part of the project. 17.The National Wetland Inventory database indicates that the project area does not include any wetlands. However, further field review and wetland assessment of the project area is needed to verify the presence of wetlands and impacts of the project. Exhibit 6-A Local Assistance Procedures Manual Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-88 March 14, 2013 OB 13-02 18.There are no agricultural wetlands on or in the vicinity of the proposed project site. 19.The project does not include re-vegetation, and does not have the potential to introduce invasive species as a result of landscaping. However, the proposed project will create the potential for the spread of invasive plant species as a result of construction activities.According to the California Invasive Plant Council’s (Cal-IPC) California Invasive Plant Inventory Database, the proposed project is located in the Sonoran Desert Floristic Province region, which includes several invasive plant species found in the region. The construction equipment and activities will be required to comply with BMP measures to prevent the spread of known invasive species, and the introduction of other species. 20.It is not anticipated that the project will affect Section 4(f) resources. School facilities are located immediately adjacent to the project area, but will not be affected by the project’s right- of-way requirements. Furthermore, it is not anticipated that historical properties are present that may be affected by the project. The project is compatible with the plans for bikeways and walkways, and will not prohibit implementation of future planned trails. 21.The proposed project does not have the potential to affect properties acquired by or improved with Land and Water Conservation Fund Act (Section 6[f]) funds. 22.The proposed project will replace the existing low-water crossing spanning the Coachella Valley Storm Water Channel at Dune Palms Road with an all-weather crossing. The crossing will be designed with consideration made for the existing visual character of the site and will incorporate special architectural treatment on the bridge railing to achieve the community design goals. Potential visual impacts may occur during construction due to large machinery and other construction related materials staged onsite. However, visual impacts will be temporary and will cease upon completion of the crossing construction. 23.The project may potentially require the acquisition and relocation of one single-family residence as a result of the raise in street grade for the proposed bridge, and the relocation of the residents of one mobile home located to the north of the single family residence. However, the project will be designed to avoid relocation impacts, pending approval by the property owners of partial property acquisition and access modification. If relocation of residence is required, a Relocation Impact memo or study will be prepared for the project to document relocation impacts, and compliance with the requirements of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act. 24.It is not anticipated that the project will have an adverse impact on land use or farmland as a result of project construction and right-of-way requirements. The project will not cause changes that may affect community character and cohesion. During construction, a temporary bypass road will be constructed to allow staged construction of the bridge, and to maintain vehicle and pedestrian access at all times. The project may have a temporary short limit access impacts during construction. Permanent access modification of one property may be required in order to avoid relocation impacts. Utility relocation will be required for project construction. Coordination with the affected utility companies will take place during project development to ensure that there are no impacts as a result of utility relocations during construction. It is anticipated that all utility relocations will be contained within the existing or proposed street right of way. Local Assistance Procedures Manual Exhibit 6-A Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-89 OB 13-02 March 14, 2013 25.The project is consistent with the City of La Quinta General Plan for the Dune Palms Road improvement, and will not cause a change in any land use surrounding the transportation facility. The Dune Palms Road low water crossing of the CVSWC is the last remaining low water crossing within the City and is a vital north/south link for emergency personnel within the City. Furthermore, the CVAG in December 2010 listed this channel crossing replacement project within the top 100 priority projects in the Coachella Valley. The bike and pedestrian trail components of the project are consistent with the CVAG and the communities within the Coachella Valley plans for a regional Bike/Pedestrian/NEV corridor (CV/Link). 26.The project does not have the potential to disrupt the neighborhood or the community within the project area; neither will it affect its cohesion and vitality. The project provides a safer and more reliable access for the community to areas north and south of the crossing, and to community emergency services and schools. 27.The project is considered beneficial to the community by providing an all-weather crossing, and eliminating the interruption of access and circulation that may result from weather events. The project may cause the relocation of one single family home and one mobile home as a result of right-of-way requirements for project construction. Affected families will be compensated and provided relocation assistance as required by the law. It is not anticipated that low-income and minority populations will be disproportionally affected by the project. 28.The project will require utility relocations for overhead Imperial Irrigation District facility (IID) electrical distribution lines, adjustment of water valve cans and lids and sewer manhole covers, minor 12” ductile iron pipe water main relocations at each bridge abutment, and relocation of both a 12” and 18” sewer line at the northern bridge abutment. Coordination with IID and CVWD, purveyors of the water and sewer facilities in the area, will take place during project planning and design to avoid and/or minimize impacts to utilities and interruption of service during construction. 29.No property access points are located within the project limits, and access to properties within the construction limits will not be affected by construction activities. 30.The proposed project will not affect access to the roadway or involve changes in access control to the State Highway 111 System south of the project area. 31.A temporary bypass road will be constructed to allow staged construction of the bridge, and to maintain vehicle and pedestrian access at all times. The bypass will be one thru lane and minor outside shoulder area in each direction with a “K” barrier as a median separator. In addition, the west side will have an area for pedestrian traffic. The proposed location of the bypass will be on the west side of Dune Palms. A Traffic Management Plan (TMP) will be prepared to help avoid and minimize impacts to traffic during construction. The TMP may consist of coordination efforts with emergency service providers, other community services, and the public. It may also specify communication methods and timing so that construction shall not interfere with any emergency response or evacuation plans, and traffic circulation. 32.Due to the nature and the scope of the proposed project, the project does not reduce parking capacity or have an impact on available parking. 33.Land immediately adjacent to the proposed project is currently under public and private ownership. No state or federal lands are present in the immediate project area Exhibit 6-A Local Assistance Procedures Manual Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) Form Page 6-90 March 14, 2013 OB 13-02 34.There is no farmland located within the vicinity or immediately adjacent to the project site. The area surrounding the project site includes a combination of vacant land, and land developed with a variety of urban uses such as schools, residences, and a medical facility. 35.Cultural resources studies will be initiated subsequent to the District PQS determining if the project is not listed as a screened undertaking according to Attachment 2 of the Section 106 PA. Otherwise, PQA will determine the appropriate study area for archaeology and historic resources. Therefore, it is currently undetermined whether there is National Register listed, or potentially eligible historic properties, or archaeological resources within or immediately adjacent to the construction area. 36.It will be determined upon consultation with the District PQA if the project requires consultation with Native American Tribes regarding this project, and the applicable procedures and requirements. 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