CC Resolution 1996-052^K RESOLUTION 96-52
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING
A NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 96-319
PREPARED FOR SPECIFIC PLAN 89-014,
AMENDMENT #2
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 96-319
WASHINGTON PLAZA ASSOCIATES/MICHAEL SHOVLIN
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of La Quinta, California, did on
the 2nd day of July, 1 996, hold a duly noticed Public Hearing to consider
Environmental Assessment 96-319, prepared for Specific Plan 89-014, Amendment
#2; and,
WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of The
Rules to Implement the California Environmental Quality Act of 1 970" as amended;
Resolution 83-68 adopted by the La Quinta City Council) in that the Community
Development Department has prepared an Initial Study EA 96-319); and
WHEREAS, the Community Development Director has determined that
said Specific Plan Amendment will not have a significant adverse effect on the
environment and that a Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact should be filed;
and
WHEREAS, upon hearing and considering all testimony and arguments,
if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said City Council did find the
following facts, findings, and reasons to justify certification of said Environmental
Assessment:
1. The proposed Amendment will not be detrimental to the health, safety, or
general welfare of the community, either indirectly or directly, in that no
significant impacts have been identified.
2. The proposed Amendment does not have the potential to degrade the quality of
the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife population
to drop below self sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal
community, reduce the number or restrict the range of rare or endangered plants
or animals or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California
history or prehistory, due to the lack of any such factors existing on the
shopping center site.
resocc. 1*9
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^KResolution 96-52
3. The proposed Amendment does not have the potential to achieve short-term
environmental goals, to the disadvantage of long-term environmental goals. The
site is predominantly developed with commercial uses, which were subject to
environmental review as part of analysis of the entire Specific Plan approval.
4. The proposed Amendment will not result in impacts which are individually
limited or cumulatively considerable when considering planned or proposed
development in the immediate vicinity. The site is an established commercial
shopping center with infrastructure to support such development already in
place.
5. The proposed Amendment will not have environmental effects that will
adversely affect the human population, either directly or indirectly, which were
not previously analyzed in conjunction with review of the overall Specific Plan
for the site.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of
La Quinta, California as follows:
1. That the recitations are true and correct and constitute the findings of the City
Council for this Environmental Assessment.
2. That it does hereby certify Environmental Assessment 96-313 for the reasons
set forth in this Resolution and as stated in the Environmental Assessment
Checklist and Addendum, attached hereto, and on file in the Community
Development Department.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the La
Quinta City Council held on this 2nd day of July, 1 996, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: Council Members Adolph, Henderson, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Holt
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
*;.,* 6; #%XW*
GLENDA L. HOL*, Mayor
City of La Quinta, California
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^KResolution No.96-52
Page 3
AUNDRA L. JU OLA, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
DAWN C. HONEYWELL, City Attorney
City of La Quinta, California
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^K ATTACHMENT3
ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM
Environmental Assessment No.96-319
Case No.:*U2:fi14
Amendment#2
L
Name of Proponent: W*hington Plaza A**c I Micha*I Shovim
Address: 71 0S4 Taniari* Lan* Ranchn Mira* CA 92270
Phone: 619-*2*5435
Agency Requiring Checklist: City nf La Ouinta
Project Name if applicable): Specific Plan g9-014 Amendment #2
Crry OF LA QUINTA
Community Development Depariment
78495 Calic Tampico
La Quinia, California 92253
c'wn.oo1
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^KII. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED:
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving
at least one impact that is a Potentially Significant Impact" or Potentially Significant Unless
Mitigated,'. as indicated by the checklist on the following pages.
Land Use and Planning Transportation/C uculation Public Services
Population and Housing Biological Resources Utilities
Earth Resources Energy a*d Mineral Resources Aesthetics
Water Risk of Upset and Human Health Cult*i*al Rcsources
Air Quality Noise Recreation
Mandatory Findings of Signi*cm*c
m. DETERMINATION.
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment,
and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on
the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because
the mitigation measures described on an attached sheet have been added to the
project. A NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment,
and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect(s) on the environment, but at least, 1)
one effect has been adcq* anal- in an earlier document pursant to applicable legal standards;
and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on
attached sheets, if the effect is a" potentially significant impact" or potential significant unless
mitigated. AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must anal* only the
effects that reaaln to be addressed
Signature 1,') Date May17 1996
Printed Name and Title Wallace Neibit As*ociate Planner
For: Citv of La puinta Community Development Department
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Si*h* *
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3.1. LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would die pi*jecI:
a) Conflict with general plan designation or zoning? x
source i(s):
b) Conflict with appl*ble ervironmental plans or policies
ado- by agencies with jurisdiction over the project? x
c) Affect agricultural resources or operations e.g. impact
to sods or farmlands, or impact: from incompatible
land uses)? x
d) Disrupt or divile the physical arrangement of as
established community including a low-income or
minority comzamity)?
3.2. POPULAIION AND HOUSING. Would die project:
a) Cumulatively exceed official regional or local
population projections? x
b) Induce substantial growth in an area either diecetly or
jidi- e.g. tb-h pr*ecti in an un:levelo* area
or extension of *or infrastructure)? x
c) Displace existing housing, eip*iaiiy affordable
housing? x
3.3. EARTh AND GEOWGY. WouM die projecr esult Ut or
txpore peopLe go poin:ial in*pactr u:voLvwg:
a) Fault ru*?
b) Seismic ground shakwg I
c) Seismic growd faikire, including li*faction? x.
d) Seiche, trimami, or volcamc hazard? 2
e) LAndslides or mudfiows?
q Erosion, changes in topography or imitable soil
conditions from excavation, grading or fll* I
g) Subsiderce of the land? I
h) *pmive sods? x
i) Uni*ie geologic or physical fcniires?
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3.4. WA'TE.R. WouLd the project reruL UL
a) Changea w abiotp** riarm, drainage term, or the
iate and an* of swl*ce runoff?
b) Expoire ofP-B or *i*y to walor relmaed hazard. x..
mchm floodmg*
c) Discharge into surfice watera or other ateration of
surfh*e water *ty e.g. tm*, disiolved
oxygen or tiirbidity? I
CI) Changei in the amount of uiad*co water in any water
body? x
e) Changes in cuirstis, or de coirse or direction of water
mov*ettts*
f) *ge mde* *grrsind waters, either throtigh
dinct or wjihdrawds, or through WI.-**"
of an euiifer by *`* or excavatio* or ti-b
* lorn of grwmdwater rochirga capability?
5) Altered direction or rate of glow of gml-water?
h) Impmctstogmii*iwater*iy? I
3.5. AIR QUAUrY. WouLd the proje*
a) Violate any air *`-`* slaiidatd to coritribute to an
exifling or pmjected air * vjo*ons? x
b) Expose muisidve recaptors to poIkit*?
c) air or trna*, Or
* dimp I. clini? I..
CI) Cr.rn*mob*ogmIodori?
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MitI**d * *
3.6. TRANSPORT*ONICIRCUL*ON. Would the project
result in:
a) Increased vehicle trips or tilific congestion?
b) Hazards to safety from design features e.g. sharp
clirves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses
e.g. farm equipment)? x
c) Inad*ate emergency access or access to nearby uses? x
d) Insufficient ing capacity on Site or off Site? x
e) Hazards or barriers for *estrians or bicyclists? x
f) Conflicts with adopted policies supporting alterrative
transportation e.g. bus turnouts, bicycle racks)?
g) Rail, waterbome or air traffic acts? x
3.7. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the p,*ec: result in
to
a) E*rul, * or rare species or their habitats
including but not Limited to plants, fish, insects,
animals, and birds?
b) L**y designated species e.g. heritage trees)? x
c) L*aIIy desipated natural comuiwilties e.g. oak
forest, e.g. oak forest, coastal habitat, etc.)? x
CI) Wetland habitat e g marsh, riperian Mid vernal pool)?
e) Wildid* dispersal or migration corridors? x
3.L ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES. Woula ihe project:
a) Conflict with adopted energy conservation plans? x
b) Use non-renewable resources in a wasteftil and
inefficient manner? x
3.9. USK OF UPSET*MAN HEALTH.
Would the pwporol involve:
a) A risk of accidental explosion or release of heardous
substannes ii*hxli**, but not limited to: oil, *icides,
cherwcsls or radiation)? x
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b) Possible interferecce with an emergency response plan x
or emergency evacuation plan?
c) The creation of any health hazard or potential health
hazards? K...
d) Exposure of people to existing sourcos of polential
hedth hazards?
e) Increased fire hazard in areas with flammable bmsh,
grass, or treee?
3.10. NOISE. W*M the pr*al resuk m.
a) Increases in eKigling noise levels?
b) Exposure of people to severe noise levels?
3.11. PIJBUC SERVICES. W*thpr*I* w' ffC* *-.
or *k U: a niw or abirwd * e*w: w an,
*thefoU*uig area::
a) Fire protection? I
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P*ui*IIy Si*S* *. *
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b) Police protection? x
c) Schools? x
d) Maintenance of public facilities, including roads? x
e) Other governmental services?
3.12. UTHITIES.
Would the proposal resuk m' a need for Tww systeM:. or
substww*L akeroatiots to the following utibn*es:
a) Power or natural gas? x
b) Commi*'cati0ns Systems? x
c) Local or regional water treatnent or distribution
facjiities? x
d) Sewer or seplic tanks? x
e) Storm water drainage?
f) Solid waste disposal?
3.13. AES*11CS. Would she proposaL:
a) Affect a scenic vista or scenic highway?
b) Have a demonstrable negative aesthetic effect? x
c) Create light or glase? x.
3.14. CULTURAL RESOURCES. Wodd the proposal:
a) Disturb *eontologi resources?
b) Distwb archaeological resources?
c) Affect historical relources? x.
d) Have the potential to cawe a physical change which
would affect unicte ethnic cultural values? x
e) Restrict existing religious of sacred Lw.' within the
potential *t area? x
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3.15. RECREATION. Would the proposal:
a) h*reiie ibm de:n:1 for nm**od or regiotal parks
of other recreational facilities? x.
b) Affect existing recreational opportunities? x...
4. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE.
a) Does the project have the Potent* to degrade the
quality of ibm enviro*ntal, subat*ially icd* the
habitat of a flab or wildlife spec'.', cam, a fish or
111,. *laton to drop below self-sustaining levels.
themiten to eliminate a * or aminal conmamity,
reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or
cndangere:l *t or animal or e*inate izporiait
examples of the major periods of California history or
prebistory? z
b) Does the project have the potential to achieve short-
term, to the diaadvantags of long-term, eiiviromm*il
c) Does the project have *u that are individually
Imiad, bit c-ihaively considerable? CUKmd-vely
co**able" mans that the efyhots of a
project are considerable when viewed incooiaection
with the elfecta of projects, the of other
current projects, and the efbcts of probable fi"''-
projects).
d) Do. the * have envimaitiental efl** which wd'
cause adverse e*ects on *man beings,
esir directly or lEdirecily? I
EARUUER ANALYSES.
* * nay be umid wiere, * to the tieng, program Em, or other CEQA proceas, one or more
l,ye been *iady in aiii earbar Em or negative declaratiom. E 15063(c)(3(D). liii this
cm a discussion ebmiki kirn- the following 0. * sheets.
a) Eadlir * wed. Identity esrier aaalyses and state where are available for rmvww.
b) a-- j which efticts from the above checklist were within the ScOpe
of and a-iately aaalyzed by the earlier doc*ent
c) Mi-u meu*s. For efl*c* that are *pol**y sigoificast* or *polugi--y sipificart imless
miliglaid,' descn1*e the mitiption inmires which wem i*ratcd or refined from the earlier
docwDegit and the eXt* to which they ukiriess site,specific coeditiom for the proJecL
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INUflAL STUDY ADDENDUM
FOR ENV[RONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 9*3 19
Prepared for:
SPECIFIC PLAN #89*14, AMENDMENT *2
111 LA QU[NTA SHOPPING CEWI*R
Crry OF LA QUINTA
Prepared by:
Cemmunity Devdepmeut Department
City of La Qu*nta
78-495 Calle Tampice
La Quinla, California 92253
May 10,19,'
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2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Sectiem Page
INTRODUCriON 3
11 ProjectOvcrview 3
12 Pw*afImtialStwdy 3
13 Background *Emviramnental Review 3
14 Summmy of Preluninary Environmental Review 4
2 PROJECT DESCRInlON 4
21 Project Lacatian and Enviramnental Setting 4
2.2 Physical Characteristics 4
2.3 Operatianal Characteristics 4
2.4 Objectives 4
2.5 Discresianary Acti*os 4
26 RdssadPrq*ects 5
3 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 5
31 LanduseandPIming 5
32 Populaban and Housing 5
33 EarthResources 6
34 Wa* 6
35 AIrQLLahty 7
36 Transpo*cn6Circulaban 7
37 Biciogical Resources S
33 EneruymdMinecalResouraes S
39 RlskdUpset4himimHoalth S
3.lONassrn 9
3 11 Piibhc Swyicci 9
312 i*htigs 10
313Andie1ica 10
314 Culturai Resources 10
3 isRacratios 11
4 MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE II
5 EAI*R ANALYSIS 12
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SECriON 1: INIIIODUCTION
1.1 PROJECr OVERVIEW
The City of La Quinta is the Lead Agency for project review, as defined by Section 21067 of the
California Environmental Quality Act CEQA). A Lead Agency is the public agency which has the
principal responsibility for carrying out or approving a project which may have a significant effect upon
the environment. The City of La Quinta, as the Lead Agency, has the authority to oversee the
environmental review and to approve the proposal.
1.2 PURPOSE OF Ti[E INniAL STUDY
As part of the environmental review for the proposed amendment, the City of La Quinta Community
Development Department has prepared this initial Study. This document provides a basis for
determining the nature and scope of the subsequent environmental review for the amendment. The
purposes ofthe initial Study, as stated in Section 15063 of the CEQA Guidelines, include the following:
To provide the City with information to use as the basis for deciding whether to prepare an
environmental impact report *IR) or a negative declaration for a project;
To enable the applicant or the City of La Quinta to modi* the project, miti*ng adverse acts
before an EIR is prepared, thereby enabling the project to quali* for a mitigated negative
declaration of environmental impact;
To assist in the prepifation ofan EIR, should one be red, by focusing the analysis on those
issues that will be adversely impacted by the proposed prqect;
To f*cilltate environmental review earty in the design of the project;
To provide documentation for the findings in a negative declaration that the project will not
have a significant e*ct on the environment;
To ellilitiate unnecessary EIR's; and
To deternine whether a previously prepared EIR could be used with the *ect.
1.3 BACKGROUND OF ENV[RONMENTAL REVIEW
The propa- project was deemed subject to the environmental review requirementa of CEQA in light
of the poential change in the original uses of the project as approved. The Environmental officer for
the Community Development Department prepared this Initial Study and addendum for review and
certification by the Pimming Commission and City Council for the City of La Qui*
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1.4 SUMMARY OF PRELIM[NARY ENV[RONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
This Initial Study did not indicate potential far significant environinental impacts. As a result, no
mitigation measures are recommended, and a Negative Declaration of Environmental *mpact will be
recommended for this proposal
2.1 PROJECT LOCAIION AND ENVIRONENTAL S*TllNG
The City of La Quinta is a 31 iS square mile municipality located in the southwestern portion of the
Co*hela Valley. The City is bounded on the west by the City ofindian Wcils, on the easi by the City
of indio and Riverside County, on the north by Riverside County, and *deral and County lands to the
south. The City of La Quinta was incorporated in * 1932
The subject site consists of appra*ately62 acres bordered by Washington Street, Highway 111,
Adams Steeet and the Whitewater River Channel. The site is developed with various retail, Qifice and
res*rant uses eatablished under S*c Pin' 89*O14. ADp* areas have been completed, but there
are several pad aeeas which are undevel* Vacant commercial land hes east and west of the site;
SimonMotorsislocatedtothesouthacrossHighway 111
2,2 PHYSICAL *RACTERIS11CS
The **-` m*lves ameiding the S**c Plan to allow * the poooitial establi*ient of two driv*
throug*i *ihties one restaurant, one bank). The crighial approval in April, 1990 prohibited such uses.
The plan was amended in 1991 to allow fr three list * drive thrau-, all of which have been
completed and are oeeratin* No additional environmental review was *---:* necessary at the time.
1.3 OPERATIONAL CIllIAIACTERISIICS
A cii* review dthe original air *ty mai*s reveals thn there are eatabhshed uses which
are not *t with the analysis For example, the currant resimirant s*re footooe Is more than
double that ori* c*imdered, and the overall prqect asge analy- is less than that *
appiov* No s*c information is avalable r-in5 the uses prOpo- under this ndmun*
1.4 OUJECIWES
The objective of the anluidmint is to provide flexibility in marketing the rwiaining developable pad
areas and to * desires lor prospective teeiants
2,5 DISCRETIONARY ACTIONS
A discretionary action is an action taken by a government agency * this *ect, the government
*cy is the City of La Quinta) that calls for the exercise ofju*t in deciding whctlier to approve
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a project. The proposed project will require discretionary approval from the Planning Commission and
City Council for the following:
* Certificadon of the Environmental Assessment for the project;
* Approval of the Spedfic Plan Amendment,*
* Approval of Development Permiit(s) for the dnve-thre ugh wes.
2.6 RELATED PROJECrS
There are no related projects to this proposal under review at present.
SE*flON 3: ENV[RONNffNTAL ANALYSTS
Ths section aialyz* ential enviri*ental *acts associated with the proposed amendment CEQA
Issue areas are evaluated in this addendum as contained in the Initial Study Checklist. Under each
checklist item, the environmental setting is discussed, including a description of conditions as they
peeeeniy exist within the City and the areas by the prOpased project. Thresholds fbr significance
are defined either by standards adopted by responsible or trustee agencies or by referring to criteria in
CEQA, Appendix G.
3.1 LAND USE AND PLANNING
Regional Environniental Setting
The City ofLa Quinta is locstcclm the Coichella Valley, in the eastern portion of Riverside County. The
valley is abundant with both plant and m.*m*I ijf*. Topographical relief ranges from 237 feet below
mean sea level msl) to about 2,000 feet above nisI. The valley is surrounded by the San Jacinto
Mountains, the Santa Rosa Moimtains, the Orocopia Mountains, and the San Bernardino Mountain
range. The San Andreas fault transects the northeastern edge of the valley.
Local Emvvonme*al Setting
The subject site has been disturbed In it's entirety There are several uses established within the site,
which is being built out on a market demand basis The overall *ect uses are consistent with the
General Plan and zoning cluTendy in c*ct
A throuUh D. N. Impact The *ndment does not propose uses inconsistent with the current or
fliture land uses contemplated for the project are*
3.2 PoPULATION AND HOUSING
Regional Envwonniwwal Setting
The City's population asofjanuary, 1995, is estimated by the State Department of Finance to be 17,591
pci*. hi addition to permanent residents, the City has approximately 8,000 seasonal residents who
spendthieetosix months in the City. It is estiniated that 30% ofall housingunits in the City areused
by seasonal residents. The average occupancy is285 persons per occupied unit.
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Local Environmnial Sening
The unmediate area is designated Mixed Regional Commercial M(RC) on the General Plan Land Use
Policy Diagram. The surrounding area to the north is designated residential and becoming densely
populated, although no growib has occurred directly across the Whitewater Channel to this point
A thre*h C. N. bnpatt. The arnaneendreent will not affect the area development patterns or population
distribution, mid will * not affect any population increase or area growth. The proposed uses are
consistent with those already approved and established for the site.
3.3 EARTH RESOURCES
Regional Enyj*naiw*al Scuing
The City of La Quinta has avaried topography, from gently sloping alluvial fans, steep hillsides, to
ielgivelyfl*dmut floor. The alluvial soils that make up most ofthe City's soil types are underlain by
igneous-metamorphic rock, as seen in outcrops in the Santa Rosa Mountains and the Coral reef
Mountains. Sails on the valley floor are made up of very fine unconsolidated silty sands.
Local Emvironm*al Suh'g
The entire site has bern dltli* * * as part of previous devdopment dpuking, on-site accesa
and building improvements
A threqli L N. bnpa* The unendmmit will not present any additional exposure to geologic and sail
related hizuds. The existmg physical conditions in the area will not be chan* in a manner which
would crei* any impacts.
3.4 WA1*R
RqwuiI Euvivonmimfal Seub',
Grc*ier resources in the La *iflta area consist of a system of laip a*rs *us l*er of rack
rnauial) and u*dw* bms * by bedrock or l*ers of soil that trap or retain **dwaser
Water supplies are also magieiited with sur*ice water from the Colorado River transported via the
Cacchella Canal and stored at Lake CaliuillL
Percolation from the tribuarim ofthe Wbiwwa** River flawing into La Quinta from the Santa Rosa
M* p**ide a ngiud * of*i* replenishmuiL Ardcial richarging of*oundwater
wLil be a reqiawent in the neair fliture
Local Eii'b-rn-al S-I*
The vicimty of the propoled Mmdment is protected from design storms by flood control and adler
required p*ect improvements The site is level and well drained, with existiiiig wimi and office uses
having beun estabhshed
A threugb IL Ne hnpaCL Current rm* rates * be incronientally increased doe to pad
deeaprnt, birt the duyelopent cipads with uses other than those previously approved will have no
additonal impact The area is currrnily *ected from flood impacts by *usting flood control facilities.
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Surface waters and streams will not be affected, and ground water resource quantity and quality will not
be impacted.
3.5 AmQUALrrY
Regional Environmenial Selling
The Coachella Valley is under the jurisdiction of the South Coast Air Quality *liinagement District
SCAQMD), and is located in the Southeast Desert Air Basin SEDAB). SEDAB has a distincdy
different air pollution problem than the South Coast Air Basin SCAB). A discussion of the
jurisdictional organization and requirements is found in the LQMEk Currendy, the SEDAB does not
meet federal standards for ozone, carbon monoxide, or particulate matter. In the CoachcUa Valley, the
standards for PM 10 are frequently excc*ded* PM lOis particulate matter 10 microns or less in diameter
that beoomes suspended in the air due to winds, grading activity, and by vehicles on unpaved roads,
among other causes,
Local Envivonmenial Sening
The City is located in the Coachella Valley, which has an arid climate, characterized by hot summers,
mild winters, il-uwit and low annual rain*fl, and low humidity. Variations in rainfall, temperatures,
and locali* winds oucur throughout the valley due to the presence of the surrounding mountains. Air
quality conditions are closely tied to the prev*ng winds of the region.
A, B, D *ss Than Significant Impact; C N. Impact An air quality analysis was prepared for
the original *ect in February, 1990. In 1992, Amendinent 1 was appro**cd to allow three drive
througlis in the total project area; all three have been completed and are in operation. As part of that
change, the applicant submitted information from a California Restaurant Association study on drive
through ser'vice lanes, in response to a proposed AQMD ban on such lanes. This study indicated that
a ban would actially increase ROG emissions by 7 percent over 1991 levels and 17 percent in the year
2000, * a tppical restanrant In relation to the entire ect, and the existing and approved uses on site,
any potential increase in ernissions associated with two additional drive through uses is not considered
significant
3.6 ThANSPORTAIIONICIRCULAIION
Regional Eiiw'ron*al Sening
The exisung cc**on * is a *binaion of early roadwork constructed by Riverside County and
new roadways smee mcorporation of the City in 1982. Key roadways include State Highway 111,
Washn5*i Street, 3eflrson Street, Fred Waring Drive, and Eisenhower Drive, Traffic volumes in La
Quinta experience considerable seasotal variation, with the late-winter, early spring months
representing the peak tourist season and highest traffic volumes.
Local Envieonm*al Sening
The * is bounded by three *or City th*au*s; Highway 111, Waslungton Street and Adams
Street. All on site access ways, parking and driveways have been installed.
A through G. N. Impact No significant traffic increases or haaards are anticipated due to the
* * thcse already contunplated under flill deeelapment of the s*c plan. Trip generation
rates for drive through versus sit down fast food restaurants do not vary significandy At present, no
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development plans have been submitted, so site specific impacts cannot be estimated. In consideration
*cusiuiativc *c generation lor the eritre center, nosig*i*cant trip generation increase isanticipaied
from the addition of two drive through facilities. Access in the area will not he * No parking
* will be *rated by the proposal which were nOt addressed and provided for in the specific plan.
The site is not pr*niate to, nor is it affected by water, air or rail traffic.
3.7 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Aqional Eni'wennw*al SUm*:
The City ofla Quinta lies within the Colorado Desert. Two ecosystems are found witliin the City; the
Sonoran Desert Scrub and the Desert Transition. The disteed enviroilments within the City are
classilledm urban or *cultural. A discussion of these ecosystems is*imd in the LQMEk
Local Environmenlal Se'tii:g
The subject area is developed with commercial uses and roiagh**ed pad sites for fiatire cosi-nercial
development The LQMEA identifies the entire site uwithin the Co*hella Valley Frinp.Toed Lizard
habitat an, * which a federal IOA permit was obtained pursuant to adoption of the CVFTh Habitat
Conservation Plan HCP).
A dirougi L Ne lmpa* The site has been dastured and is developed with commercial structures,
paved areas and vacant graded land with utilities installed Thereis no *tial for wildh* habitat to
exist*the site. Miti*on*havebmpndforthe CVFrLasputofgradmgperrnits originy
issued for the site.
3.8 *ERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES
Aqional E*iwb*nn.-d Seubi,
The City dIA *nnta c*tmris *mofmsighiiicnit and si*'iflcant Mineral AWept. Resources
Areas SMARA),u deii*ated by the SW' Deputient of C*ervation. There are no known oil
in the City L,* * reoiiom used in the City came floin the hnperial Irngation District
liD), Southern California Gas Company, and p.aiine companies
Local EiivPiiwiu-al *e-
The si does DOt'. within an i*Etified sensitive to mineral resowces Soils within the ute c*imit
of Coactiella S-Id and bun and *oma fine sand; these soils are well-drmned and permeable
A, L Ne CL The pr*used aniendrnnit has no painital to impact ener* or meral riesources in
ariy In-mu.
3.9 RISK OF UPSETIKUMAN KKALTH
Rqional Eiwwenmiiwal SenLm*
Althougb scale. * waste generating einpl*ment is not yet lonsied within La Qiunta, the
e,ustence of chmcali utilized in dry deming operations, a*cuitrral operations, restatirant kitchen
dcunng,, l-***: impion and *cpaure to scale electrical f*cihties mmj* pose si*'i*cant threats
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to various sectors of the population. Currently, there are no hazardous disposal waste sites located in
Riverside County, transportation of such materials out of and through La Cuinta takes place.
Local Eavironmenial Sening
The project site has not been used for any type of manufacturing in the past.
A through E. No hnpact There is no potential for additional risk or health hazard due to the request,
or any eflbct on emergency response or potential fire hazard. The site has been assessed for risk impacts
as part of the overall development framework; development of the individual pad sites will be subject
to Fire and Health Department standards as in effect and applicable at the time.
3.10 NOISE
Regional Environmental Setting
Noise levels in the City are created by a variety ofsources in and near the City. The *or sources include
vehicular noise on City stycets and Highway 111, and temporary construction noises. The ambient noise
levels are dominated by vehicular noise along the highway and major arerials.
Local Environmengal Setting
Primaty noise scwi* in the subject area are associated with vehicle traffic, and various short*term noise
sources associated with urbanized residential uses.
A9 B. N. Impaet. No increase in noise levels are anticipated due to the proposal. Development af
remaning pad sites will have negligible effects upo** noise levels or exposure to noise when considered
with existing development on site.
3.11 PUBUC SERVICES
Rqional Eiiv*nmental Setting
Law cn*c*nmt services are *ded to the City tb-i a contract with the Riverside County Sheriff's
Deparnen* Fire protection seevice is provided to the City by Riverside County Fire Department. The
Fire Department administers twQ stazions in the City; Station #32 on Frances Hack Lane, and Station
#70, at the intersection of Madison Street and Avenue 54. Paramedic services are provided by Springs
Ambulance Service. Health care services are prvvided in the City through JFK Memorial Hospital in
hidlo; mci the Eirnhow* *daze Care Clinic located in the On*EIe*en La Quinta Shopping Center.
Local En*wenintal Setting
The neas*&e station to the area is Station #32 located appra**imately theee miles south of the subject
are& Governmental services in La Quinta are provided by City staff at the Civic Center.
A through L N. Enpact The amendment will not impact public services. The existing approved
c*nmrcial development parrn for the center will not be alterd by the development of commercial drive
through uses
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3.12 Um-mES
Rqional Envi*nmemal Selling
The City of La Quinta is served by the rnp**al Irrigation District UD) for electrical power supply and
the Southern California Gas C*npany SC G) for nawral gas servioe* General Telephone Exchange GTE)
provides telephone services for the City. Continental Cablevision services the area for cable television
service.
The Coachella Valley Water District CVWD) provides water and sewer service to the City. CVWD
obtains its water from underground aquifers and from the Colorado River. The City's storinwater
drainage system is adniinistered by CVWD, which maintains and cperates a comprehensive system to
collect and transport flows through the City.
The City is served by Waste Management of the Desert for solid waste disposal. Nonhazardous, mixed
municipal solid waste is taken to three landfills within the Coachella Valley.
Local Envwonme*al Selling
The subject site is si*cantiy developed at presen* Street and flood control improvements have bean
completed, along with sewer and water services. Rocyding and waste management services have been
established for the center.
A thi** F. N. Impact The prop- nn,idmmt to dow drive dirougi uses will not impact existing
utility services or create a need for additional services. AD utilities exist on the site and are adequate.
3.13 AESIIIETICS
Local Knv*r*aiiiwnial Selling
The City ofLa Quinta is partially located within a desert valley cove. There am hlllsides to the west and
south of the City. Views of the desert and sur*ding mountains am visible on dear throughout
most of the City. The * flea is a developed, medium density section of the City Views of the Santa
Rosa and Coral Reef Mountains nist to the sonth and wesL
A, B, C, N. *ct The amdmit will not * exisung views, scmc highways, or create lig*t
or glare, as existing conditions will rer-an unchanged from that which ii curr*tly approved.
3.14 CULTURAL RESOURCES
Rqioui * Sellm'g
The most hiwly locations of peehistoric cultural reoeiiees in the La Quinta area are along the frohills
The settlmg of the La Quinta area has been chnonided by the La Quinta historical Society in several
publications and museum e,diibits. There are 13 designated historical stmcwres and sites rccorded on
the California Historic Resources Inventory. These resources are listed in the La Quinta General Plan.
Local Envivonmental Selling
The proposal is in a developing irrbanized commercial area, them is little likelihood that an" cultural
resources exist in the are* No historic structres exist in the immediate are*
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A through E. No Impact. There &e no potential impacts to cultural resources due to the proposal.
3.15 RECRE*ON
Local Environmental Setting
The City of La Cuinta has an adopted Parks and Recreation Master Plan that assesses the existing
resources and facilities and the fliture needs of the City. The City Contains approximately 2*.7 acres of
developed parkiand for Quimby Act purposes. There are also bike and equestrian pathways and trails
within the City and designated pedestrian hiking trails.
A, B. No Impact The proposed amendment will not affect demand for recreational facilities or affect
existing recreation.
The Initial Study for the pree- street vacation did not discover any significant impacts associated with
the project. No development is proposed with the project, and no gro'th-inducing impacts will occur.
The following findings can be made r*ffding the mandatory findings of significance set forth in Section
15065 of the CEQA Guidelines and based on the results of this environmental assessment:
* The prop- specific plan amendment will not have the potential to degrade the quality
of the environment, as the project in question will not be developed in any maimer
which could change existing conditions or generally approved uses in the site,
* The proposed specific plan amendment will not have the potontial to achieve short term
goals to the disadvantage of long-term goals, as the amendment proposed will not
significandy alter the types or intensity of the cominercial uses already approved or in
place on the site,
The proposed specific plan amendment will not have acts which are individually
limited but cumulatively considerable when considering planned or propsed
devdopm*it in the immedi* vicinity, in thg the amendment, whether approved or no',
will have no measurable * upon surronniririg developn*t as currently approved and
allowed under the existing specific plan for the entire site,
* The pr-ed specific plan amendment will not have environmental effects that will
adversely affect humans, either directly or indirectly, as the amendment contemplates
uees similar to those already assigned and approved as part of the overall specific plan,
and which were addressed in the environmental assessment previously adopted for the
plan.
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SECUION 5: EARLIER ANALYSES
A. Eadier Analyses UseiL The *owig do*ts were used and/or referred to in the preparation
of this assessment:
* La Quinta General Plan U*; Octaher 1992
* La Quinta Master Environmental Assessment; Octaber 1992
* Air Quality Analysis ofthe Propo- 111 La Quinta Center Project; February, 1990
* CRA Study ori Drive-Thni Service Lanes; Spring 1991
* Traffic Impact Analysis: Proposed Transpacific Devclopflmt Company CQmmercial Project;
December, 1989
* Envirownental Assessment 89-150; prepared for Specific Plan 89-014 and Nat Plan 90434.
Thcsc and vanous Qiher documents on file with the Community Development Department were used in
the preparation of this Initial Study
B. Impacis Adequildy Addttme* No si*cuit imps ww' identified as part of this an*s.
The proposed amendment is within the scope of the ori*nal ect as *ously amended; effi*
identilled as less than sipi* cant weee addressed within pri*Cus eiiVU**tal doci*tition as
indicated*
C. Mitigatien Measures. No measures are
Preparedly: Date
M**17_1996
Wallace * Nesbit
*odg* Namer
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