2035 LQ General Plan Fully Assembled - Adopted 2.19.13 & Amended 10.19.13
CITY OF LA QUINTA
GENERAL PLAN
Adopted
February 19, 2013
Amended
November 19, 2013
ii
LA
QUINTA
GENERAL
PLAN
TABLE
OF
CONTENTS
Page
LIST
OF
TABLES
iii
LIST
OF
EXHIBITS
v
I.
ADMINISTRATION
I-‐1
Community
Vision
I-‐1
Administration
I-‐3
II.
COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐1
Land
Use
II-‐1
Circulation
II-‐33
Livable
Community
II-‐135
Economic
Development
II-‐163
Parks,
Recreation
And
Trails
II-‐183
Housing
II-‐195
III.
NATURAL
RESOURCES
III-‐1
Air
Quality
III-‐1
Energy
and
Mineral
Resources
III-‐15
Biological
Resources
III-‐25
Cultural
Resources
III-‐43
Water
Resources
III-‐57
Open
Space
and
Conservation
III-‐67
IV.
ENVIRONMENTAL
HAZARDS
IV-‐1
Noise
IV-‐1
Soils
and
Geology
IV-‐19
Flooding
and
Hydrology
IV-‐43
Hazardous
Materials
IV-‐59
V.
PUBLIC
INFRASTRUCTURE
&
SERVICES
V-‐1
Emergency
Services
V-‐1
Water,
Sewer
&
Other
Utilities
V-‐11
Public
Facilities
V-‐19
VI.
GLOSSARY
OF
TERMS
AND
ACRONYMS
VI-‐1
iii
LIST
OF
TABLES
II-‐1
Consolidated
Land
Use
Designations
II-‐2
II-‐2
Zoning
Designation
Consistency
Matrix
II-‐6
II-‐3
Land
Use
Summary
City
Limits
Only
II-‐8
II-‐4
Land
Use
Summary
Sphere-‐of-‐Influence
Only
II-‐13
II-‐5
Land
Use
Summary
City
Limits
and
Sphere
of
Influence
II-‐14
II-‐6
Level
Of
Service
Description
Mid-‐Link
and
Uninterrupted
Flow
II-‐41
II-‐7
Intersection
Levels
of
Service
II-‐43
II-‐8
City
Roadway
Classifications
Level
of
Service
Volumes/Capacity
Values
II-‐44
II-‐9
Existing
Peak
Hour
Intersection
Analysis
Peak
Hour/Peak
Season
Level
of
Service
II-‐81
II-‐10
Existing
Average
Daily
Traffic
Peak
Hour/Peak
Season
Roadway
Segment
Level
of
Service
II-‐83
II-‐11
2035
Peak
Season
Intersection
Operating
Conditions
II-‐103
II-‐12
2035
Peak
Season
Roadway
Segment
Operating
Conditions
II-‐109
II-‐13
Employment
by
Occupation,
2010
II-‐166
II-‐14
Major
Employers
in
La
Quinta
II-‐167
II-‐15
Major
General
Fund
Revenue
Sources,
2008-‐2012
II-‐172
II-‐16
Buildout
Revenues
and
Costs
City
Limits
Only
II-‐175
II-‐17
Buildout
Revenues
and
Costs
City
and
Sphere
of
Influence
II-‐176
II-‐18
Quimby
Act
Parkland
in
La
Quinta
II-‐190
II-‐19
Quantified
Objectives
2014-‐2021
II-‐197
II-‐20
Population
Growth
II-‐240
II-‐21
Population
Growth
In
Coachella
Valley
Cities
II-‐241
II-‐22
Age
Distribution
II-‐242
II-‐23
1980–2000
Ethnic
Background
of
Population
II-‐243
II-‐24
Employment
by
Industry
II-‐244
II-‐25
Major
Employers
La
Quinta
Community
Area
II-‐245
II-‐26
2011
Household
Income
Estimates
II-‐246
II-‐27
Income
Limits
by
Household
Size,
2012
II-‐246
II-‐28
Households
by
Income
Category,
2010
II-‐247
II-‐29
Total
Housing
Stock
2000
to
2010
II-‐248
II-‐30
Total
Dwelling
Units
by
Type
of
Structure
2000
to
2012
II-‐249
II-‐31
Historic
Record
of
Housing
Development
II-‐250
II-‐32
Total
Households,
2000
and
2010
II-‐251
II-‐33
Household
Size,
2000
and
2010
II-‐252
II-‐34
Housing
Tenure
and
Vacancy
II-‐253
II-‐35
Age
of
Housing
Stock
in
La
Quinta
II-‐254
II-‐36
Bedrooms
Per
Unit,
2000-‐2011
II-‐259
II-‐37
Bedrooms
in
Dwelling
Unit
by
Tenure,
2010
II-‐260
II-‐38
Sample
Resale
Prices
of
Single-‐Family
Homes
and
Condominiums
II-‐261
II-‐39
Representative
Apartment
Market
Rental
Rates
II-‐263
iv
II-‐40
Overpayment
by
Income
Category
and
Tenure
II-‐265
II-‐41
Affordable
Housing
Costs
by
Annual
Income
II-‐267
II-‐42
Overcrowding
II-‐269
II-‐43
City
of
La
Quinta
Householders
65
Years
and
Over,
by
Tenure
II-‐270
II-‐44
City
of
La
Quinta
Number
of
Disabilities,
by
Disability
Type1
II-‐271
II-‐45
City
of
La
Quinta
Developmentally
Disabled
Population
Served
by
Inland
Regional
Center
II-‐272
II-‐46
Large
Households
by
Tenure
II-‐275
II-‐47
Coachella
Valley
Homeless
Shelter
Resources
2007
II-‐279
II-‐48
2014-‐2021
Regional
Housing
Needs
Assessment
II-‐280
II-‐49
Residential
General
Plan
and
Zoning
Districts
II-‐283
II-‐50
2013
Residential
Development
Standards
II-‐288
II-‐51
2013
Permitted
Residential
Uses
by
Residential
Zoning
District
II-‐289
II-‐52
2013
Permitted
Residential
Uses
by
Nonresidential
Zoning
District
II-‐290
II-‐53
Parking
Requirements
for
Residential
Uses
II-‐293
II-‐54
Local
Development
Processing
Times
II-‐295
II-‐55
State
Development
Processing
Time
Limits
II-‐295
II-‐56
Impact
Fees
Per
Unit
of
Development
II-‐300
II-‐57
Development
Fees
for
Typical
Single-‐Family
and
Multifamily
Homes
II-‐301
II-‐58
Planning
Department
Fee
Schedule
II-‐302
II-‐59
Affordability
of
Housing
2013
II-‐311
II-‐60
Constructed,
Approved,
and
Pending
Residential
Projects
II-‐312
II-‐61
Vacant
Land
Inventory
II-‐313
II-‐62
Assisted
Multifamily
Project
Inventory
II-‐319
III-‐1
Authorizing
Legislation
&
Implementing
Agencies
for
Air
Quality
III-‐2
III-‐2
Primary
Sources
and
Effects
of
Criteria
Pollutants
III-‐6
III-‐3
Special
Status
Species
III-‐28
III-‐4
La
Quinta
City
and
Regional
Parks
III-‐70
IV-‐1
Existing
24-‐Hour
Noise
Levels
at
Monitored
Locations
IV-‐5
IV-‐2
Existing
Short-‐Term
Noise
Levels
IV-‐6
IV-‐3
Land
Use
Compatibility
for
Community
Noise
Environments
IV-‐8
IV-‐4
Build
Out
Noise
Levels
IV-‐9
V-‐1
Potential
Student
Generation
V-‐23
v
LIST
OF
EXHIBITS
I-‐1
Regional
Location
Map
I-‐11
I-‐2
Vicinity
Map
I-‐13
I-‐3
Planning
Area
Boundaries
I-‐15
II-‐1
General
Plan
Land
Use
Map
II-‐11
II-‐2
General
Plan
Roadway
Classifications
II-‐46
II-‐3
General
Plan
Street
Cross
Sections
II-‐47
II-‐4
Image
Corridors
II-‐58
II-‐5
Designated
Truck
and
Weight
Restricted
Routes
II-‐62
II-‐6
Bike
Paths
Master
Plan
II-‐64
II-‐7
Golf
Cart/NEV/Multi-‐Use
Paths
(A)
II-‐67
II-‐8
Golf
Cart/NEV/Multi-‐Use
Paths
(B)
II-‐68
II-‐9
Existing
(2010)
Average
Daily
Traffic
Volumes
II-‐87
II-‐10
General
Plan
Buildout
(2035)
Average
Daily
Traffic
Volumes
II-‐89
II-‐11
General
Plan
Buildout
Intersection
Configurations
With
Improvements
Achieving
LOS
D
or
Better
II-‐101
II-‐12
Roadway
Network
Special
Focus
Areas
II-‐114
II-‐13
La
Quinta’s
Parks
and
Recreational
Areas
II-‐185
II-‐14
Land
Inventory
Map
II-‐334
III-‐1
Mineral
Resource
Zone
Map
III-‐19
III-‐2
Special
Status
Species
Map
III-‐33
III-‐3
Blue
Line
Streams
III-‐37
III-‐4
Cultural
Resources
Survey
Map
III-‐47
III-‐5
Paleontological
Soils
in
the
City
III-‐51
III-‐6
Coachella
Valley
Groundwater
Subbasin
and
Associated
Subareas
III-‐59
IV-‐1
Airport
Noise
Contours
IV-‐13
IV-‐2
Faults
and
Historical
Seismicity
Map
IV-‐23
IV-‐3
Seismic
Hazards
Map
IV-‐27
IV-‐4
Geologic
Map
of
the
Study
Area
IV-‐31
IV-‐5
Wind
Erosion
Susceptibility
Map
IV-‐37
IV-‐6
FEMA
Flood
Zones
and
Flood
Control
Facilities
IV-‐51
Chapter
I
ADMINISTRATION
ADMINISTRATION
I-‐1
COMMUNITY
VISION
"We
the
people
of
the
City
of
La
Quinta
declare
our
intent
to
restore
to
our
community
the
historic
principles
of
self-‐
governance
inherent
in
the
doctrine
of
home-‐rule.
Sincerely
committed
to
the
belief
that
local
government
has
the
closest
affinity
to
the
people
governed,
and
firm
in
the
conviction
that
the
economic
and
fiscal
independence
of
our
local
government
will
promote
the
health,
safety
and
welfare
of
all
the
citizens
of
this
City..."
City
Charter
1994
As
stated
in
the
City’s
Charter,
it
is
a
fundamental
tenet
of
the
City
of
La
Quinta,
its
citizens
and
its
leaders,
to
protect
and
maintain
the
public
health,
safety
and
welfare
through
self-‐governance
at
a
local
level.
As
such,
this
plan
is
crafted
as
the
guiding
policy
document
for
the
City
per
the
vision
expressed
by
its
citizens
and
established
by
the
City
Council.
While
it
is
written
to
be
in
compliance
with
applicable
State
and
Federal
legislation,
as
it
has
been
since
the
City’s
first
General
Plan,
its
goals,
policies
and
programs
are
those
of
the
people
of
La
Quinta
and
are
not
intended
to
facilitate
the
agenda
of
any
outside
group
or
foreign
entity.
La
Quinta
is
a
great
place
to
live,
work
and
play.
La
Quinta
was
originally
established
and
has
developed
with
the
objective
of
providing
well
planned
and
desirable
neighborhoods,
a
diversified
economic
base,
excellent
schools,
exceptional
recreational
and
cultural
opportunities,
and
a
variety
of
community
services
and
facilities.
As
our
community
continues
to
mature,
we
will
strive
to
preserve
and
adapt
these
desirable
qualities
by
maintaining
and,
where
necessary,
improving
upon
a
safe
and
convenient
circulation
system
that
includes
alternative
transportation
opportunities
as
well
as
bike/pedestrian
trails
and
golf
cart
routes;
by
providing
additional
recreational
opportunities
and
cultural
facilities
for
the
health
and
well-‐being
of
our
residents;
by
preserving
our
natural
and
historic
resources,
focusing
ADMINISTRATION
I-‐2
on
sustainable
existing
and
future
use
of
water
and
energy
resources;
and,
by
ensuring
that
La
Quinta
remains
a
safe
and
desirable
place
for
both
residents
and
visitors.
We
will
continue
to
emphasize
the
importance
of
community
participation
and
recognize
the
commitment
property
owners
have
and
continue
to
make
through
their
investment
of
time
and
resources.
We
will
work
with
regional
and
other
local
government
entities
to
solve
common
problems
and
coordinate
our
shared
interests.
La
Quinta’s
future
depends
on
maintaining
a
balanced
budget
and
the
conservative
management
of
our
financial
resources,
and
continuing
efforts
to
promote
our
community
as
a
premier
place
to
live,
work
and
play.
GUIDING
PRINCIPLES
The
General
Plan
supports,
encourages
and
upholds
individual
rights
and
freedoms,
and
the
protection
of
private
property
rights
and
is
designed
with
the
intent
of
enhancing
and
improving
our
quality
of
life
in
La
Quinta.
That
intent
supports
and
upholds
the
rights,
liberties
and
freedoms
of
the
people
of
La
Quinta,
as
afforded
by
the
Federal
and
State
constitutions.
In
order
to
achieve
and
support
our
Community
Vision,
the
following
eight
guiding
principles
will
shape
the
La
Quinta
General
Plan:
A
Neighborhood
Oriented
Community
–
Strive
to
ensure
that
existing
and
future
housing
for
all
residents
continues
to
be
diverse
in
type
and
of
high
quality.
Establish
and
maintain
connections
between
existing
and
future
neighborhoods,
including
existing
housing
stock
and
associated
infrastructure.
A
Healthy,
Vibrant
and
Heritage
Minded
Community
–
Ensure
parks,
public
facilities
and
open
spaces
are
appropriately
sized
and
designed
to
meet
the
needs
and
interests
of
all
segments
of
the
community.
Continue
to
ensure
that
all
land
uses
cohesively
exist
with
the
area’s
natural,
cultural
and
historical
heritage.
A
Fiscally
Sound
Community
–
Capitalize
on
our
unique
development
opportunities,
especially
within
the
Highway
111
Corridor
and
the
Village
area
by
focusing
on
shopping,
dining,
entertainment,
professional
and
mixed
use
options
while
improving
the
aesthetics
of
the
community.
ADMINISTRATION
I-‐3
A
Safe
Community
–
Continue
to
enforce
development
standards
that
promote
safe
indoor
and
outdoor
spaces
and
provide
emergency
services
that
are
adequately
funded,
staffed,
and
equipped
to
provide
timely
response.
A
Full
Service
Community
–
Ensure
that
streets,
water
and
sewer
systems,
storm
drains,
and
other
infrastructure
is
maintained
in
good
working
order
and
of
adequate
service
level
to
address
existing
and
future
needs.
A
Resort
Oriented
Community
–
Maintain
and
improve
the
opportunities
for
La
Quinta
to
be
recognized,
both
nationally
and
internationally,
as
a
top
resort
and
recreation
destination.
A
Circulation
Minded
Community
–
Promote
and
encourage
a
broad
range
of
transportation
opportunities,
especially
those
that
reduce
the
impact
to
our
environment,
as
well
as
effectively
moving
people
and
goods.
Continue
to
work
closely
with
neighboring
communities
and
regional
agencies
to
address
regional
transportation
issues.
A
Conservation
Focused
Community
–
Promote
and
encourage
the
efficient
use
of
energy
and
water;
minimize
air
and
water
pollution;
reduce
noise
and
light
pollution;
preserve
native
habitat;
reduce
litter;
and
increase
recycling
programs.
ADMINISTRATION
INTRODUCTION
This
section
of
the
General
Plan
provides
background
on
the
General
Plan,
its
organization,
the
Plan's
function
and
its
relationship
to
other
documents,
including
the
California
Environmental
Quality
Act
(CEQA),
the
Subdivision
Map
Act,
and
the
Zoning
Ordinance.
The
processes
required
for
review
and
amendment
of
the
General
Plan
are
also
described
below.
California
Government
Code
(Section
65300)
requires
that
incorporated
communities
and
counties
prepare
and
adopt
a
comprehensive,
long-‐term
General
Plan.
The
General
Plan
must
regulate
the
development
of
lands
within
a
city’s
corporate
boundary,
and
can
also
include
the
City’s
legally
recognized
Sphere
of
Influence.
ADMINISTRATION
I-‐4
This
General
Plan
addresses
lands
within
the
City
of
La
Quinta’s
city
limits,
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
(please
see
Exhibit
1-‐1).
The
General
Plan
and
its
various
elements
are
required
to
function
as
an
integrated,
internally
consistent
and
compatible
statement
of
policies
(Government
Code
Section
65300.5).
Government
Code
Section
65300.7
allows
each
city
to
consider
local
issues
and
conditions
and
tailor
the
General
Plan
to
meet
its
needs.
The
General
Plan
must
be
responsive
to
the
variations
in
density,
land
use
and
development
issues,
and
the
needs
of
each
community's
residents
(Government
Code
Sections
65300.9,
65302).
Format
The
La
Quinta
General
Plan
includes
two
documents:
the
General
Plan,
which
provides
background
information,
direction
for
future
decisions,
and
goals,
policies
and
programs
to
guide
that
direction;
and
the
General
Plan
Environmental
Impact
Report,
which
analyses
the
impacts
of
the
General
Plan,
and
provides
mitigation
measures
to
reduce
those
impacts.
Goals,
Policies
and
Programs
General
Plan
goals
are
broad
statements
reflecting
the
City’s
values,
aims
and
aspirations.
These
goals
address
the
physical
development
of
the
City,
the
protection
of
people
and
property
from
environmental
and
man-‐made
hazards,
as
well
as
the
preservation
of
the
City’s
assets.
Policies
have
been
developed
to
accomplish
the
goals
of
the
General
Plan.
They
present
specific
performance
requirements
for
each
goal.
Programs
provide
quantitative
and
qualitative
targets
to
implement
the
policies
in
the
General
Plan.
Maps
and
Graphics
Maps
and
graphics
are
provided
to
illustrate
all
components
of
the
General
Plan.
They
include
land
use
and
circulation
patterns,
natural
resources
and
hazards,
and
public
infrastructure.
These
maps
carry
equal
authority
to
the
goals
and
policies
of
the
General
Plan.
General
Plan
Chapters
and
Elements
California
Government
Code
Section
65302
establishes
the
seven
(7)
mandatory
elements
of
the
General
Plan:
Land
Use,
Circulation,
Housing,
Conservation,
Open
Space,
Safety,
and
Noise.
ADMINISTRATION
I-‐5
This
General
Plan
includes
all
the
required
Elements,
and
has
added
elements
specifically
tailored
to
the
City’s
needs.
Each
Element
of
the
General
Plan
has
equal
legal
authority.
The
Elements
are
grouped
into
Chapters,
based
on
how
they
relate
to
each
other.
The
General
Plan
includes
the
following
Chapters:
Chapter
II:
Community
Development
This
Chapter
groups
those
Elements
that
directly
relate
to
the
development
and
redevelopment
of
the
City.
The
Elements
included
in
this
Chapter
are:
Land
Use
Circulation
Livable
Community
Economic
Development
Parks,
Recreation
and
Trails
Housing
Chapter
III:
Natural
Resources
This
Chapter
describes
the
resources
of
the
City’s
environment,
including
man-‐made
and
natural
resources.
The
Natural
Resources
Chapter
includes
the
following
Elements:
Air
Quality
Energy
and
Mineral
Resources
Biological
Resources
Cultural
Resources
Water
Resources
Open
Space
and
Conservation
Chapter
IV:
Environmental
Hazards
This
Chapter
describes
the
hazards
of
the
physical
environment,
including
man-‐made
and
natural
hazards.
The
Environmental
Hazards
Chapter
includes
the
following
Elements:
Noise
Soils
and
Geology
Flooding
and
Hydrology
Hazardous
Materials
ADMINISTRATION
I-‐6
Chapter
IV:
Public
Infrastructure
&
Services
This
Chapter
describes
the
public
facilities
and
services
provided
in
the
City,
and
how
they
will
be
addressed
as
the
City
grows.
This
Chapter
includes
the
following
Elements:
Emergency
Services
Water,
Sewer
&
Other
Utilities
Public
Facilities
Using
The
General
Plan
The
General
Plan
is
the
foundation
upon
which
all
land
use
decisions
are
based.
It
is
an
information
and
planning
guide
that
provides
a
framework
for
making
informed
decisions
about
the
future
of
the
City.
The
General
Plan
and
its
Environmental
Impact
Report
provide
the
basis
for
a
rational
nexus
to
support
development,
mitigation
measures
and
exactions.
All
development
proposals
must
be
analyzed
and
tested
for
consistency
with
the
goals,
policies,
and
programs
in
every
applicable
element
of
the
General
Plan.
Specific
Plans
and
the
Zoning
Ordinance
must
be
consistent
with
the
General
Plan.
General
Plan
consistency
is
also
a
required
criteria
for
determining
significant
impacts
under
CEQA.
Interpretation
of
the
General
Plan
When
uncertainty
exists
regarding
the
location
of
boundaries
of
any
land
use
category,
proposed
public
facility
symbol,
circulation
alignment,
or
other
symbol
or
line
found
on
the
General
Plan
maps,
the
following
procedures
will
be
used
to
resolve
the
issue:
Boundaries
shown
in
the
General
Plan
and
on
official
maps
as
approximately
following
the
limits
of
any
other
jurisdiction’s
limits
are
to
be
construed
as
following
these
limits.
Boundaries
shown
as
following
or
approximately
following
section
lines,
and
half
or
quarter
section
lines,
shall
be
construed
as
following
such
lines.
Boundaries
shown
as
following
or
approximately
following
the
centerline
of
channels,
streams,
creeks,
rivers,
or
other
continuously
or
intermittently
flowing
water
course
are
to
be
construed
as
following
the
centerline
of
these
water
courses
taken
at
mean
low
water,
and,
in
the
event
of
natural
change
in
the
location
of
such
streams
or
other
water
courses,
the
boundary
is
to
be
construed
as
moving
with
the
channel
centerline.
ADMINISTRATION
I-‐7
Where
a
land
use
category
applied
to
a
parcel
is
not
mapped
to
include
an
adjacent
street
or
alley,
the
category
shall
be
considered
to
extend
to
the
centerline
of
the
right
of
way.
Boundaries
shown
as
separated
from,
parallel,
or
approximately
parallel
to
any
of
the
features
listed
above
shall
be
construed
to
be
parallel
to
such
features
and
at
such
distances
therefrom
as
are
shown
on
the
map.
Symbols
that
indicate
appropriate
locations
for
proposed
public
facilities
are
not
property
specific.
They
indicate
only
the
general
area
within
which
a
specific
facility
should
be
established.
CEQA
Review
of
Consistency
State
CEQA
Guidelines
require
that
an
initial
study
include
"an
examination
of
whether
the
project
is
compatible
with
existing
zoning
and
plans."
The
State
CEQA
Guidelines
further
stipulate
that,
"A
project
will
normally
have
a
significant
effect
on
the
environment
if
it
will
conflict
with
adopted
environmental
plans
and
goals
of
the
community
where
it
is
located."
If
a
determination
is
made
by
the
Planning
Commission
or
the
City
Council
that
the
proposed
action
is
inconsistent
with
the
General
Plan,
no
further
action
shall
be
taken
without
the
completion
and
processing
of
an
EIR
which
would
support
a
finding
of
overriding
consideration.
Zoning
Consistency
California
State
law
also
mandates
that
the
City’s
Zoning
Ordinance
be
consistent
with
the
General
Plan.
In
the
event
that
the
Zoning
Ordinance
becomes
inconsistent
with
the
General
Plan
because
of
a
General
Plan
Amendment,
the
Zoning
Ordinance
must
be
amended
within
a
reasonable
time
so
that
it
is
made
consistent
with
the
General
Plan.
The
Zoning
Ordinance
cannot
be
amended
if
it
causes
an
inconsistency
with
the
General
Plan.
Amending
The
General
Plan
The
General
Plan
is
a
multi-‐faceted
document,
which
defines
and
addresses
the
changing
needs
of
the
City.
It
is
also
based
on
an
on-‐
going
assessment
and
understanding
of
existing
and
projected
needs.
To
assure
that
the
General
Plan
is
kept
current,
short-‐term
programs
and
policies
may
be
reviewed
annually
to
reflect
compatibility
with
budgetary
priorities
and
related
program
status.
Long-‐term
programs
and
implementation
measures
must
also
be
given
consideration
to
ADMINISTRATION
I-‐8
assure
timely
funding
and
development
of
critical
infrastructure
and
public
services
and
facilities.
The
City
Council
or
any
citizen
may
initiate
a
General
Plan
Amendment.
Application
Procedures
Applications
for
the
amendment
of
the
General
Plan
are
filed
with
the
City
Planning
Department,
along
with
the
appropriate
fees.
An
amendment
to
the
General
Plan
constitutes
a
project
under
the
California
Environmental
Quality
Act
(CEQA),
and
therefore
is
evaluated
for
its
environmental
effects
and
consistency
with
other
elements
of
the
General
Plan.
Final
approval
of
General
Plan
amendments
is
the
responsibility
of
the
City
Council.
Annual
Review
The
Government
Code
requires
that
the
planning
agency
"render
an
annual
report
to
the
legislative
body
(City
Council)
on
the
status
of
the
Plan
and
the
progress
in
its
implementation"
(Section
65400(b)).
State
law
further
requires
that
the
Housing
Element
be
reviewed
on
a
separate
schedule,
generally
every
eight
years.
Exemptions
The
State
Legislature
has
recognized
that
occasions
arise
that
require
the
City
to
have
some
flexibility
in
amending
the
General
Plan.
As
set
forth
in
the
Government
Code,
the
following
are
exempt
from
the
General
Plan
amendment
schedule:
(1)
Amendments
requested
and
determined
necessary
for
the
development
of
a
residential
project,
of
which
at
least
twenty-‐five
percent
(25%)
of
units
will
be
available
to
persons
of
low
or
moderate
income
(Sections
65361(b)
&
65358
(d)).
(2)
Any
amendment
necessary
to
comply
with
a
court
decision
in
a
case
involving
the
legal
adequacy
of
the
General
Plan
(Sections
65361
and
65358
(d)
(1)).
Specific
Plans
A
Specific
Plan
plays
an
important
role
as
a
refined
version
of
the
General
Plan
and
Zoning
Ordinance,
applicable
to
a
specific
parcel
of
land
or
area
of
the
City.
Specific
Plans
provide
detailed
design
and
analysis
of
a
parcel
or
area,
and
precise
land
use
locations
and
design
standards.
Specific
Plans
contain
text,
exhibits,
and
diagrams
indicating
the
distribution,
location,
and
intensity
of
proposed
land
uses
and
the
ADMINISTRATION
I-‐9
necessary
public
and
private
urban
support
systems,
including
streets,
utilities
and
drainage
facilities.
Specific
Plans
also
define
the
standards
and
criteria
by
which
development
and,
where
applicable,
conservation
will
proceed
on
the
property.
It
must
also
be
consistent
with
all
facets
of
the
General
Plan
and
in
turn,
zoning,
subdivision,
and
public
works
projects
must
be
consistent
with
an
existing
Specific
Plan
(Government
Code
Section
65455).
Specific
Plans
provide
an
opportunity
to
utilize
creative
and
non-‐
traditional
techniques
for
development.
The
City
encourages
the
preparation
of
Specific
Plans
that
result
in
innovative
projects,
either
on
a
single
property,
or
across
several
parcels.
Specific
Plans
are
prepared,
adopted
and
amended
in
the
same
manner
as
a
General
Plan,
may
be
adopted
by
resolution
or
ordinance,
and
may
be
amended
as
often
as
deemed
necessary
by
the
City
Council.
In
areas
where
the
Specific
Plan
encompasses
more
than
one
property,
the
plan
must
be
completed
and
adopted
prior
to
development
on
any
affected
property.
Capital
Facilities
California
incorporated
towns,
charter
cities
and
counties
are
to
“annually
review
the
capital
improvement
program
of
the
city
or
county
and
the
local
public
works
projects
of
other
local
agencies
for
their
consistency
with
the
General
Plan.”
Also,
pursuant
to
Government
Code
Section
65401,
all
departments
within
the
City
and
all
other
local
government
agencies
must
submit
a
list
of
proposed
projects
to
the
City.
The
City
is
responsible
for
reviewing
these
projects
for
conformity
with
the
General
Plan.
Implementation
of
the
General
Plan
California
Government
Code
Section
65103(c)
requires
that
local
jurisdictions
implement
the
General
Plan
once
it
has
been
adopted.
The
La
Quinta
General
Plan
relies
on
programs
as
well
as
the
related
mitigation
measures
and
monitoring
programs
set
forth
in
the
General
Plan
EIR,
to
serve
as
implementation
measures.
The
City
Zoning
Ordinance
also
plays
a
critical
role
in
implementing
the
goals
and
policies
of
the
Plan,
and
Specific
Plans
provide
detailed
implementation
programs
for
specific
portions
of
the
General
Plan
area.
ADMINISTRATION
I-‐10
Implementation
Through
the
Zoning
Ordinance
The
Zoning
Ordinance
is
an
exercise
of
police
powers
granted
to
the
City
by
the
State,
and
is
the
primary
tool
for
implementing
the
General
Plan.
The
Zoning
Ordinance
regulates
land
use
by
distinct
development
zones
and
permitted
uses.
Text,
maps,
diagrams
and
other
materials
describe
the
distribution
and
intensity
of
land
uses
in
all
land
use
designations.
Minimum
development
standards
for
each
of
the
zones
are
also
included,
in
a
manner
consistent
with
the
General
Plan.
Permitting
processes
set
forth
in
the
Zoning
Ordinance,
including
Conditional
Use
Permits,
Variances,
Site
Development
Permits
and
other
land
use
permitting
also
implement
the
General
Plan.
The
implementation
of
the
General
Plan
is
further
regulated
by
Government
Code
Sections
65800
et.
seq.
Implementation
Through
the
Subdivision
Ordinance
Like
Zoning
Ordinances,
subdivision
regulation
is
also
an
exercise
of
police
powers
and
a
principal
instrument
for
implementing
the
General
Plan.
Establishing
state-‐wide
uniformity
in
local
subdivision
procedures,
the
State
Subdivision
Map
Act
(Government
Code
Sections
66410
et
seq.)
leaves
the
standards
for
regulating
the
design
and
improvement
of
subdivision
to
local
government.
The
broadest
authority
for
regulating
subdivisions
lies
in
Government
Code
Sections
66473.5,
66474,
66474.60,
and
66474.61,
requiring
findings
that,
among
other
things,
the
subdivision
is
consistent
with
the
City
General
Plan
and
any
applicable
Specific
Plan.
Development
Agreements
State
law
provides
for
the
adoption
of
development
agreements
between
a
project
proponent
and
the
City,
in
accordance
with
Government
Code
Section
65865
et
seq.
The
purpose
of
development
agreements
is
to
provide
developers
with
additional
assurances
that
development
approvals
will
not
be
nullified
by
some
future
local
policy
or
regulation
change.
In
exchange,
the
developer
may
be
required
to
meet
certain
conditions
or
performance
criteria
that
become
part
of
the
agreement.
As
set
forth
in
Government
Code
Section
65866,
the
City,
unless
otherwise
provided
by
the
development
agreement,
is
not
prevented
from
applying
new
rules,
regulations,
and
policies
which
do
not
conflict
with
those
rules,
regulations,
and
policies
applicable
to
that
property.
Neither
is
the
City
prevented
from
denying
or
conditionally
approving
any
subsequent
development
project
application
on
the
basis
of
such
existing
or
new
rules,
regulations
or
policies.
Chapter
II
COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT
LAND
USE
CIRCULATION
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
PARKS,
RECREATION
AND
TRAILS
HOUSING
LAND
USE
II-‐1
LAND
USE
PURPOSE
The
Land
Use
Element
is
the
key
to
a
successful
General
Plan.
It
impacts
the
City’s
growth
most
directly,
and
provides
the
greatest
guidance
in
the
City’s
vision
for
its
build
out.
This
Element
includes
the
Land
Use
Map,
which
is
the
long
term
guide
to
development
and
redevelopment
of
property
in
the
City.
It
also
provides
policies
and
programs
that
define
and
shape
high
quality
residential,
commercial,
industrial
and
institutional
development
in
the
City.
California
Government
Code
Section
65300
establishes
the
requirement
for
a
Land
Use
Element,
and
also
dictates
its
general
content.
The
City
has
considerable
latitude
in
how
it
presents
and
enforces
the
mandatory
content,
and
over
the
years
has
established
a
land
use
pattern
that
has
not
been
significantly
changed
in
this
update.
The
Land
Use
Element
can
significantly
affect
other
Elements,
including
the
Circulation
Element,
especially
since
the
selection
of
land
uses
have
a
great
impact
on
the
number
of
vehicles
on
City
streets.
The
Land
Use
Element
is
also
closely
tied
to
the
Housing
Element,
as
it
must
assure
that
sufficient
lands
are
allocated
to
residential
land
uses
in
all
densities.
Both
the
Parks
and
Recreation
and
the
Open
Space
elements
also
depend
on
the
Land
Use
Element
to
provide
sufficient
land
for
parks
and
natural
open
space
to
preserve
the
recreational
opportunities
that
are
so
important
to
the
quality
of
life
in
La
Quinta.
This
Land
Use
Element
has
consolidated
several
of
the
City’s
previous
land
use
designations,
and
introduces
Mixed
Use
as
a
potential
future
land
use.
It
also
provides
background
and
direction
for
the
development
and
redevelopment
of
two
areas
of
particular
importance
to
the
City:
the
Highway
111
corridor,
and
the
Village.
LAND
USE
II-‐2
Finally,
this
Land
Use
Element,
and
the
Land
Use
Map,
include
the
City’s
Sphere
of
Influence.
The
Sphere
is
described,
and
policies
and
programs
governing
its
land
uses
in
the
future,
should
the
lands
be
annexed,
are
also
included
in
this
document.
Only
if
these
lands
are
annexed
will
the
City’s
designations,
policies
and
programs
become
effective
for
this
area.
At
present,
these
lands
remain
under
the
jurisdiction
of
the
County
of
Riverside.
BACKGROUND
Land
Use
Designations
This
Land
Use
Element
includes
a
consolidation
of
several
of
the
land
use
designations
used
in
previous
General
Plans.
As
shown
in
Table
II-‐1,
the
residential
designations,
which
previously
were
defined
in
five
categories,
have
been
reduced
to
two.
The
seven
previous
commercial
designations
have
been
combined
into
three,
and
the
open
space
designations,
which
were
previously
in
four
categories,
have
been
consolidated
into
two
designations.
Table
II-‐1
Consolidated
Land
Use
Designations
Previous
Designation
New
Designation
Very
Low
Density
Residential
Low
Density
Residential
Low
Density
Residential
Medium
Density
Residential
Medium/High
Density
Residential
Medium
High
Density
Residential
High
Density
Residential
Regional
Commercial
General
Commercial
Community
Commercial
Neighborhood
Commercial
Commercial
Park
Office
Resort
Mixed
Use
Tourist
Commercial
Tourist
Commercial
Village
Commercial
Village
Commercial
Industrial/Light
Manufacturing
Industrial/Light
Manufacturing
Major
Community
Facilities
Major
Community
Facilities
Park
Recreational
Open
Space
Golf
Course
Open
Space
Natural
Open
Space
Watercourse
LAND
USE
II-‐3
The
uses
typical
of
each
of
the
land
use
designations
are
described
below:
Low
Density
Residential
(Up
to
4
units
per
acre)
This
land
use
designation
is
appropriate
for
single
family
residential
development,
whether
attached
or
detached.
The
density
of
individual
parcels
is
further
refined
in
the
Zoning
Ordinance.
These
lands
are
typically
developed
as
subdivisions,
country
club
developments,
or
master
planned
communities.
On
lands
used
for
equestrian
purposes,
lots
must
be
a
minimum
of
one
acre.
Clustered
housing
projects
(including
condominiums),
providing
common
area
open
space,
appropriately
scaled
commercial
development
serving
the
project
or
amenities
are
also
appropriate
under
this
designation,
with
the
approval
of
a
Specific
Plan.
In
the
Sphere
of
Influence,
the
Low
Density
Residential
designation
is
applied
as
a
temporary
designation,
in
anticipation
of
the
preparation
of
a
Master
Plan
for
the
area
(please
see
the
discussion
of
the
Sphere
of
Influence,
below).
Medium/High
Density
Residential
(Up
to
16
units
per
acre)
The
Medium/High
Density
designation
is
designed
to
accommodate
a
broad
range
of
residential
land
uses,
including
small-‐lot
subdivisions,
duplex,
condominium
and
apartment
projects.
The
density
of
individual
parcels
is
further
refined
in
the
Zoning
Ordinance.
Specific
Plans
may
be
appropriate
for
clustered
development
in
the
lower
density
zones,
but
are
not
required.
Uses
that
may
be
appropriate
with
the
approval
of
a
Conditional
Use
Permit
include
mobile
home
parks
and
subdivisions
and
bed
and
breakfast
facilities.
Small
retail
stores
that
provide
neighborhood
conveniences,
are
less
than
5,000
square
feet,
and
on
parcels
of
up
to
one
acre,
may
be
allowed
with
approval
of
a
Conditional
Use
Permit.
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
Policy
LU-‐7.1,
mixed
use
development
is
also
appropriate
in
this
designation.
Mixed
use
projects
can
include
vertical
mixed
use
–
where
retail/office
occurs
on
the
ground
floor,
with
residential
units
above;
horizontal
mixed
use
–
where
retail/
office
uses
and
higher
density
residential
occur
next
to
each
other,
and
are
LAND
USE
II-‐4
integrated
through
pedestrian
connections
and
common
areas;
or
mixed
use
added
to
existing
commercial
development
–
where
the
residential
project
abuts
or
wraps
around
an
existing
commercial
development.
Tourist
Commercial
This
land
use
designation
is
specifically
geared
to
tourism-‐related
land
uses,
such
as
resort
hotels,
hotels
and
motels,
and
resort
commercial
development,
such
as
conference
centers,
restaurants,
resort-‐
supporting
retail
and
services
(including
day
spas
and
similar
personal
services).
Time
share,
fractional
ownership
or
similar
projects
may
also
be
appropriate
in
this
designation,
with
the
approval
of
a
Conditional
Use
Permit.
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
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
be
residential
units
added
to
existing
commercial
development.
Industrial/Light
Industrial
Manufacturing
This
land
use
designation
applies
only
to
land
currently
located
in
the
Sphere
of
Influence.
Therefore,
this
land
use
designation
would
only
become
applicable
if
the
designated
lands
are
annexed
into
the
City.
Appropriate
land
uses
include
business
parks;
value-‐added
non-‐
polluting
industrial
uses
operating
entirely
within
existing
buildings;
airport
and
aircraft
related
businesses;
warehousing
and
distribution;
and
light
manufacturing.
Outdoor
storage
as
an
ancillary
use
when
a
structure
is
the
primary
use
on
the
property
can
be
permitted
entirely
screened
from
public
view.
Commercial
retail
and
office
uses
that
support
industrial
projects
are
also
appropriate.
With
the
approval
of
a
Conditional
Use
Permit,
more
intense
industrial
uses,
including
appliance
and
furniture
manufacturing,
metal
product
manufacturing
and
transportation
equipment
manufacturing
may
be
appropriate.
All
projects
proposed
within
this
designation
will
be
compatible
with
surrounding
land
uses
or
land
use
designations,
and
will
mitigate
their
environmental
impacts
to
less
than
significant
levels.
LAND
USE
II-‐5
Major
Community
Facilities
This
land
use
designation
has
been
assigned
to
existing
or
planned
municipal,
educational
or
public
facilities,
such
as
City
and
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),
public
and
private
golf
courses.
Natural
Open
Space
This
land
use
designation
is
applied
to
areas
of
natural
open
space,
whether
owned
by
private
parties
or
public
entities.
With
the
exception
of
trail
or
trailhead
development,
little
development
is
permitted
in
this
designation.
Ephemeral
streams,
man
made
flood
control
channels
and
the
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel
are
designated
Natural
Open
Space.
Lands
purchased
by
conservation
organizations
for
the
Coachella
Valley
Multiple
Species
Habitat
Conservation
Plan
can
be
included
in
this
designation.
Zoning
Consistency
To
assure
consistency
and
compatibility
between
the
General
Plan
and
the
Zoning
Ordinance,
Table
II-‐2
shows
the
Zoning
districts
that
correspond
to
each
land
use
designation.
LAND
USE
II-‐6
Table
II-‐2
Zoning
Designation
Consistency
Matrix
General
Plan
Designation
Zoning
Designation
Low
Density
Residential
RR
–
Rural
Residential
Overlay
EOD
–
Equestrian
Overlay
RVL
–
Very
Low
Density
Residential
RL
–
Low
Density
Residential
A/ER
–
Agricultural/Equestrian
Residential
RSP
–
Residential
Specific
Plan
Overlay*
Medium/High
Density
Residential
RC
-‐
Cove
Residential
RM
–
Medium
Density
Residential
RMH
–
Medium
High
Density
Residential
RH
–
High
Density
Residential
RSP
–
Residential
Specific
Plan
Overlay*
General
Commercial
CR
–
Regional
Commercial
CP
–
Commercial
Park
CC
–
Community
Commercial
CN
–
Neighborhood
Commercial
CO
–
Office
Commercial
Tourist
Commercial
CT
–
Tourist
Commercial
Village
Commercial
VC
–
Village
Commercial
Industrial/Light
Manufacturing
I
–
Industrial/Light
Manufacturing
Major
Community
Facilities
MC
–
Major
Community
Facilities
Recreational
Open
Space
PR
–
Parks
and
Recreation
GC
–
Golf
Course
Natural
Open
Space
OS
–
Open
Space
FP
–
Flood
Plain
HC
–
Hillside
Conservation
Overlay
*Can
occur
in
any
residential
zone,
base
zone
governs
density.
Distribution
of
Land
Uses
The
Land
Use
Map
addresses
not
only
the
City’s
corporate
limits,
but
its
Sphere
of
Influence.
The
character
and
distribution
of
these
land
uses,
and
the
character
and
quantity
of
existing
development
are
described
for
both
these
areas
individually
below.
A
summary
of
all
lands
within
both
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
is
also
provided.
LAND
USE
II-‐7
City
Limits
There
are
a
total
of
22,855.5
acres
of
land
within
the
City’s
limits.
As
shown
in
Table
II-‐3,
the
single
largest
land
mass
in
the
City
is
designated
Open
Space,
which
encompasses
53.3%
of
the
total
land
area
within
the
City,
or
12,192.5
acres
of
Natural
and
Recreational
Open
Space.
Residential
lands
take
up
31.7%
(7,255.7
acres)
of
the
land
in
the
City,
and
Commercial
lands
represent
4.4%
(1,005.1
acres)
of
City
lands.
26.9%
of
residential
lands
are
vacant,
while
33.4%
of
commercial
lands
are
vacant.
Also
shown
in
Table
II-‐3
is
the
extent
of
existing
development.
In
2012,
there
are
a
total
of
23,489
housing
units
in
the
City,
the
vast
majority
of
which
are
attached
and
detached
single
family
homes.
The
vacant
residential
lands
have
a
potential
to
generate
an
additional
8,114
units,
4,752
of
which
would
be
single
family
units,
and
3,362
of
which
would
be
multi-‐family
units
(including
condominiums,
townhouses
and
apartments).
It
is
also
estimated
that
there
are
currently
6.4
million
square
feet
of
commercial
and
resort
space
in
the
City,
and
that
the
commercial
lands
have
the
potential
to
generate
an
additional
3.2
million
square
feet
of
commercial
space,
including
retail,
office
and
resort
space.
Approximately
56.4%
of
lands
designated
for
Major
Community
Facilities
are
currently
developed
(252.7
acres),
and
193.8
acres
remain
available
for
development.
LAND
USE
II-‐8
Table
II-‐3
Land
Use
Summary
City
Limits
Only
Land
Use
Designation
Developed
Acres
Vacant
Acres
Total
Acres
Existing
Units
Potential
Units
Total
Units
Low
Density
Residential
4,006.0
1,583.7
5,589.7
20,834
4,752
25,586
Medium/High
Density
Residential
1,292.4
373.6
1,666.0
2,655
3,362
6,017
Total
5,298.4
1,957.3
7,255.7
23,489
8,114
31,603
Existing
SF
Potential
SF
Total
SF
General
Commercial
385.6
184.0
569.6
3,695,282
1,763,309
5,458,591
Tourist
Commercial
206.6
138.9
345.5
1,979,889
1,331,106
3,310,996
Village
Commercial
77.1
12.9
90.0
738,865
123,623
862,488
Total
669.3
335.8
1,005.1
6,414,036
3,218,039
9,632,074
Major
Community
Facilities
252.7
193.8
446.5
Open
Space
-‐
Natural
2,171.6
4,761.7
6,933.3
Open
Space
-‐
Recreation
4,392.2
867.0
5,259.2
Street
Rights-‐of-‐
Way
1,764.6
191.1
1,955.7
Grand
Total
14,548.8
8,306.7
22,855.5
*Differences
in
sums
due
to
rounding.
Sphere
of
Influence
In
the
Sphere
of
Influence,
there
are
a
total
of
8,101.4
acres.
91.3%
of
land
is
designated
for
residential
land
uses.
3.5%
of
Sphere
lands
are
designated
for
commercial
land
uses,
and
less
than
1%
are
designated
for
industrial
land
uses.
There
is
no
designated
Open
Space
land
in
the
Sphere
currently.
The
acreage
is
shown
in
Table
II-‐4,
below.
There
are
currently
a
total
of
801
housing
units
in
the
Sphere,
all
of
which
are
single
family
homes.
The
vacant
residential
lands
have
a
potential
to
generate
an
additional
20,699
units,
20,480
of
which
would
be
single
family
units,
and
219
of
which
would
be
multi-‐family
LAND
USE
II-‐9
units
(including
condominiums,
townhouses
and
apartments).
It
is
important
to
note
that
Policy
II-‐1.4
requires
that
the
City
prepare
a
Master
Plan
for
the
Sphere
of
Influence
which
is
likely
to
significantly
change
land
uses
in
this
area,
particularly
in
terms
of
reducing
residential
densities
to
fit
the
character
of
the
Vista
Santa
Rosa
area.
Please
see
the
discussion
under
“Future
Development
in
the
Sphere
of
Influence,”
below.
It
is
also
estimated
that
there
are
currently
273,760
square
feet
of
commercial
space
in
the
Sphere,
and
that
the
commercial
lands
have
the
potential
to
generate
an
additional
2.5
million
square
feet
of
commercial
space,
including
retail,
office
and
resort
space.
The
Industrial/Light
Industrial
Manufacturing
lands
in
the
Sphere
are
currently
vacant,
and
could
generate
611,408
square
feet
of
space
in
the
future.
Finally,
there
are
29.8
acres
of
land
designated
for
Major
Community
Facilities,
with
all
but
1.6
acres
being
developed.
LAND
USE
II-‐10
THIS
PAGE
INTENTIONALLY
LEFT
BLANK
LAND
USE
II-‐12
PAGE
NUMBER
SPACER
-‐
PULL
FROM
DOC
LAND
USE
II-‐13
Table
II-‐4
Land
Use
Summary
Sphere-‐of-‐Influence
Only
Land
Use
Designation
Developed
Acres
Vacant
Acres
Total
Acres
Existing
Units
Potential
Units
Total
Units
Low
Density
Residential
551.5
6,826.6
7,378.1
801
20,480
21,281
Medium/High
Density
Residential
0.2
24.4
24.6
0
219
219
Total
551.7
6,851.0
7,402.7
801
20,699
21,500
Existing
SF
Potential
SF
Total
SF
General
Commercial
28.6
256.6
285.1
273,760
2,458,797
2,732,557
Total
28.6
256.6
285.1
273,760
2,458,797
2,732,557
Existing
SF
Potential
SF
Total
SF
Industrial/Light
Manufacturing
0
63.8
63.8
0
611,408
611,408
Total
0.0
63.8
63.8
0
611,408
611,408
Major
Community
Facilities
28.17
1.61
29.8
Street
Rights-‐of-‐Way
319.93
0
319.9
Grand
Total
928.4
7,173.0
8,101.4
*Differences
in
sums
due
to
rounding.
City
Limits
and
Sphere
of
Influence
in
Total
Table
II-‐5
summarizes
all
acreages
by
land
use
in
both
the
City
and
Sphere
of
Influence.
When
both
areas
are
totaled,
the
entire
Planning
Area
has
the
potential
to
generate
an
additional
28,813
housing
units,
25,232
of
which
would
be
single
family
homes,
and
3,581
would
be
multi-‐family
units.
At
build
out,
the
Planning
Area
would
accommodate
53,103
housing
units,
46,867
of
which
would
be
single
family
homes,
and
6,236
would
be
multi-‐family
units.
Further,
the
Planning
Area
has
the
potential
to
generate
an
additional
5.7
million
square
feet
of
commercial
space,
for
a
total
of
12.4
million
square
feet
of
commercial
space
at
build
out.
Industrial
space
could
total
611,408
square
feet
of
space
at
build
out.
LAND
USE
II-‐14
Table
II-‐5
Land
Use
Summary
City
Limits
and
Sphere
of
Influence
Land
Use
Designation
Developed
Acres
Vacant
Acres
Total
Acres
Existing
Units
Potential
Units
Total
Units
Low
Density
Residential
4,557.5
8,410.3
12,967.8
21,635
25,232
46,867
Medium/High
Density
Residential
1,292.6
398.0
1,690.6
2,655
3,581
6,236
Total
5,850.1
8,808.3
14,658.4
24,290
28,813
53,103
Existing
SF
Potential
SF
Total
SF
General
Commercial
414.2
440.6
854.7
3,969,042
4,222,106
8,191,148
Tourist
Commercial
206.6
138.9
345.5
1,979,889
1,331,106
3,310,996
Village
Commercial
77.1
12.9
90.0
738,865
123,623
862,488
Total
697.9
592.4
1,290.2
6,687,796
5,676,835
12,364,631
Industrial/Light
Manufacturing
0.0
63.8
63.8
-‐
611,408
611,408
Major
Community
Facilities
280.9
195.4
476.3
Open
Space
-‐
Natural
2,171.6
4,761.7
6,933.3
Open
Space
-‐
Recreation
4,392.2
867.0
5,259.2
Street
Rights-‐of-‐
Way
2,084.5
191.1
2,275.6
Grand
Total
15,477.2
15,479.7
30,956.9
*Differences
in
sums
due
to
rounding.
Residential
Build
Out
Population
The
US
Census
estimated
the
City’s
population
at
37,467
in
2010.
This
population
was
distributed
in
14,820
households,
which
translates
to
a
total
of
2.53
persons
per
household.
In
order
to
estimate
build
out
population
in
the
City,
the
total
number
of
potential
housing
units
was
multiplied
by
the
current
household
size,
resulting
in
a
total
population
in
the
City
at
build
out
of
79,956
persons.
It
is
difficult
to
estimate
what
percentage
of
the
City’s
housing
units
will
be
occupied
by
seasonal
residents
at
build
out,
but
if
the
current
seasonal
vacancy
rate
of
27.5%
were
to
carry
through
to
build
out,
the
permanent
population
in
the
City
would
be
57,968.
LAND
USE
II-‐15
In
the
Sphere
of
Influence,
the
County
estimated
the
population
at
2,264
in
2010.
For
analysis
purposes,
it
was
assumed
that
the
household
size
in
the
Sphere
of
Influence
would
be
consistent
with
that
in
the
City
in
the
future.
Based
on
that
assumption,
the
total
population
in
the
Sphere
of
Influence
at
build
out
would
be
54,396.
Once
again,
it
is
important
to
note
that
the
Low
Density
Residential
land
use
designation
will
be
maintained
in
the
Sphere,
and
that
the
Master
Plan
called
for
in
Policy
LU-‐1.4,
below,
will
result
in
lower
intensities
of
development.
If
all
housing
units
are
occupied,
and
all
the
potential
housing
units
in
both
the
City
and
the
Sphere
are
constructed,
the
total
population
in
the
City
and
Sphere
at
build
out
will
total
134,352
persons.
It
is
likely
that
residential
development
in
the
City
will
take
many
forms.
Master
planned
communities,
with
and
without
golf
courses,
will
continue
to
develop
where
they
have
been
approved
and
not
completed.
Within
City
limits,
however,
few
large
parcels
remain
to
allow
large
scale
golf
club
projects.
As
the
market
changes,
and
new
residents
look
for
different
options
for
living,
a
greater
variety
of
housing
types
will
be
required.
Whether
these
take
the
form
of
single
family
homes
or
townhomes,
apartments
or
stacked
flats,
the
City
can
expect
to
see
changes
in
its
housing
stock
to
reflect
changing
consumer
trends.
The
raised
awareness
of
resource
efficiency
and
healthy
living
will
change
the
residential
market,
and
by
extension
the
types
of
residential
projects
that
are
built
in
the
future.
Specific
Plans
The
City
has
a
number
of
approved
and
active
Specific
Plans
governing
development
of
residential,
commercial
and
resort
projects.
Many
of
these
have
been
built
out,
and
some
still
have
available
development
areas.
The
Planning
Department
maintains
a
map
of
existing
Specific
Plans.
Specific
Plans
will
continue
to
be
a
valuable
tool
for
creative
development
in
the
City.
For
mixed
use,
residential
and
commercial
development
projects,
the
Specific
Plan
allows
flexibility
in
design
and
site
planning
which
might
otherwise
be
restricted
by
issues
with
the
project’s
physical
features,
or
the
standards
of
the
Zoning
Ordinance.
Specific
Plans
can
provide
for
changes
and
easing
of
zoning
standards,
when
the
quality
of
the
development
and/or
amenities
compensate
for
these
changes.
In
the
future,
Specific
Plans
may
be
ideal
tools
for
mixed
use
projects
that
include
new
concepts
such
as
transit-‐oriented
LAND
USE
II-‐16
developments,
expand
the
City’s
revenue
base,
and
provide
high
quality,
innovative
designs.
Greater
detail
on
the
format
and
content
of
Specific
Plans
is
provided
in
Chapter
I
of
this
General
Plan,
and
in
the
Zoning
Ordinance.
Commercial
Development
Potential
As
described
above,
the
vacant
commercial
lands
in
the
City
have
the
potential
to
generate
an
additional
3.2
million
square
feet
of
space
in
the
City,
and
an
additional
2.5
million
square
feet
in
the
Sphere
of
Influence.
This
would
almost
double
the
commercial
space
currently
developed.
The
Highway
111
Corridor
The
majority
of
this
commercial
development
will
occur
on
Highway
111,
Washington
Street,
and
at
commercial
corners
in
the
northwestern
and
southeastern
corners
of
the
City.
In
addition,
over
the
life
of
this
General
Plan,
and
before
build
out
of
the
City,
it
is
likely
that
older
existing
commercial
projects
will
be
redeveloped,
as
their
current
layout,
mix
of
business
and
available
square
footage
fails
to
meet
market
demands.
It
is
critical
to
the
City’s
economy,
and
its
ability
to
maintain
services
for
residents
that
preserve
quality
of
life,
that
commercial
development,
particularly
on
Highway
111,
remain
successful,
vibrant
and
income-‐producing.
The
City
is
required
to
participate
in
regional
efforts
to
reduce
vehicle
trips,
and
their
air
emissions,
through
the
requirements
and
implementation
programs
of
SB
375.
This
relatively
new
law
creates
“Sustainable
Community
Strategies”
being
developed
by
the
Southern
California
Association
of
Governments
(SCAG),
that
are
designed
to
intensify
development,
encourage
mixed
use
development
in
close
proximity
to
employment
centers,
bus
routes
and
commercial
services.
All
these
factors
combine
to
create
new
opportunities
for
the
City
in
the
future.
The
Highway
111
corridor,
and
by
extension
on
Washington
LAND
USE
II-‐17
Street
to
Avenue
48,
will
continue
to
be
the
center
of
commercial
activities
in
the
City.
Highway
111
is
also
a
regional
roadway
that
connects
all
of
the
cities
of
the
Coachella
Valley,
and
is
the
spine
of
SunLine
Transit’s
route
system.
It
lends
itself
best
to
the
intensification
of
land
uses
envisioned
in
SB
375,
and
allows
the
City
to
consider
the
potential
of
mixed
use
development
for
the
long
term.
It
is
not
the
intent
of
the
City
to
impose
mixed
use
development
on
all
projects
in
the
Highway
111
corridor.
That
would
be
neither
practical
nor
feasible.
It
is
the
intent
of
the
following
discussion
to
spur
creative
thinking
and
a
new
approach
to
new
and
redeveloping
projects
on
Highway
111,
and
to
encourage
the
development
of
pedestrian-‐
friendly,
interconnected
projects
that
serve
the
City’s
current
and
future
residents
and
visitors,
and
provide
them
with
expanded
living,
shopping
and
working
opportunities.
Mixed
use
development
is
defined
as
the
combination
of
two
or
more
land
uses
on
one
site.
In
the
case
of
the
Highway
111
corridor,
the
two
most
likely
land
use
types
are
residential
and
commercial
development.
The
placement
of
residential
units
in
this
area
would
meet
a
number
of
criteria
identified
under
SB
375,
and
in
modern
planning
principles:
it
would
place
residents
in
close
proximity
to
their
jobs;
it
would
make
it
easier
to
take
the
bus
to
work,
school
or
shopping;
and
it
would
create
an
immediately
adjacent
market
for
commercial
goods
and
services.
Mixed
use
development
relies
on
the
creation
of
an
environment
that
is
at
a
human
scale,
and
more
comfortable
for
a
pedestrian
than
typical
large
scale
commercial
development
typical
of
Highway
111
now.
To
achieve
a
more
pedestrian
scale,
existing
projects
can
be
modified,
as
shown
here,
to
add
smaller
scale
residential
or
commercial
development.
This
small
scale
project
close
to
cross
streets
and
internal
driveways
changes
the
environment
of
“big
box”
stores
that
currently
exists
in
this
area
by
bringing
the
scale
down
to
a
human
level.
LAND
USE
II-‐18
It
is
also
important
to
remember
that
mixed
use
can
be
achieved
in
a
number
of
ways.
It
can
be
housing
over
retail
or
office
development,
which
is
the
most
common
concept
for
mixed
use.
But
it
can
also
be
achieved
by
building
residential
development
immediately
adjacent
to
retail
or
office
development,
and
creating
a
safe
and
pleasant
environment
for
the
resident
to
walk
from
home
to
work
or
shops.
It
has
even
been
successfully
constructed
by
building
residential
around
an
existing
“big
box”
store.
These
concepts
can
be
used
individually,
or
combined
in
one
or
more
projects
to
create
a
new
and
improved
environment
in
traditionally
commercial
areas.
New
concepts
and
projects
will
help
to
maintain
the
City’s
commercial
core
as
a
destination
for
shopping
in
the
region,
and
as
a
strong
revenue
source
for
the
City’s
general
fund.
This
General
Plan
establishes
the
concept
of
mixed
use
development,
and
as
provided
in
Policy
LU-‐7.1
and
Program
LU-‐7.1.a.,
requires
the
creation
of
a
Mixed
Use
Overlay
in
the
Zoning
Ordinance.
This
overlay
will
allow
flexibility
for
mixed
use
development
based
on
high
quality
development
standards,
and
will
also
preserve
traditional
commercial
development
potential,
and
the
income
generated
for
the
City
from
that
development.
The
Village
The
Village
is
the
traditional
core
of
the
City,
and
represents
its
roots.
This
neighborhood
currently
includes
a
mix
of
single
family
homes,
small
scale
apartment
projects,
commercial
retail
and
professional
development,
and
public
uses,
including
schools
and
the
Civic
Center
complex.
Several
homes
in
the
Village
have
been
converted
to
restaurants
or
offices,
enhancing
the
small
scaled
mix
of
uses
the
area
is
known
for.
It
is
the
City’s
“downtown,”
and
its
scale
makes
it
more
accessible
and
inviting
for
an
afternoon’s
visit
than
the
Highway
111
corridor.
LAND
USE
II-‐19
Historically,
the
Village
has
struggled
with
access
issues.
Because
it
is
not
located
on
one
of
the
City’s
major
streets,
it
can
be
hard
to
find.
The
lack
of
major
roads
also
can
cause
traffic
congestion,
particularly
during
major
events.
The
City
and
businesses
in
the
Village
have
been
successful
in
improving
the
identity
of
the
Village,
so
that
it
is
now
easier
to
find,
and
attracts
residents
and
visitors
throughout
the
year.
Continuing
to
provide
better
signage
and
identity
for
the
Village
will
be
key
to
its
long
term
success.
The
Village
already
includes
mixed
use
development,
and
has
the
potential
to
add
to
the
City’s
mixed
use
inventory.
The
type
and
scale
of
such
development
will
be
on
a
smaller
scale
than
what
is
possible
on
Highway
111,
but
can
be
just
as
significant
in
terms
of
expanding
living
and
working
experiences
for
the
City’s
current
and
future
residents.
The
Village
already
has
schools,
shopping
and
work
opportunities
within
it.
The
weakest
link
is
the
residential
component,
which
has
not
developed
at
a
concentrated
scale.
In
order
to
improve
the
success
of
existing
businesses
in
the
area,
and
encourage
the
development
of
additional
businesses,
more
residential
units
must
be
developed
to
support
them.
In
order
for
mixed
use
to
be
successful
in
the
Village,
it
must
successfully
inter-‐
connect
residential
to
commercial
development,
and
create
an
environment
that
encourages
walking
and
biking.
The
Village
is
also
now
accessible
by
golf
cart,
and
that
means
of
transport
must
be
preserved
and
enhanced.
Future
development
can
take
advantage
of
the
smaller
scale
of
the
Village,
and
include
paseos
or
urban
trails
that
are
shaded
and
offer
seating
and
access
to
businesses
and
school,
mid-‐block
trails
for
bicycles
and
golf
carts,
and
parking
areas
that
include
secure
bike
LAND
USE
II-‐20
parking
and
charging
stations.
The
inclusion
of
these
types
of
enhancements
in
the
Village
will
do
two
things:
enhance
its
desirability
as
a
destination,
and
reduce
traffic
congestion.
A
master
plan
for
a
system
of
trails
and
paths
would
help
to
stimulate
creative
design
of
these
facilities
in
the
future.
Development
in
the
Village
can
take
many
forms:
retail
or
office
development
with
residential
units
above;
live/work
units
that
provide
an
office
at
the
street,
and
residential
behind;
condominium
units
or
stacked
flats
next
to
retail;
and
centralized
parking
that
serves
multiple
projects.
The
Village
Commercial
Zoning
designation
already
allows
off-‐
site
parking,
and
should
be
reviewed
and
updated
to
address
creative
solutions
for
mixed
use
projects.
Also
critical
to
the
Village’s
long
term
success
will
be
designs
that
incorporate
trails
for
people
and
bicycles,
and
paths
or
routes
for
alternative
fuel
vehicles,
including
golf
carts,
NEVs
and
others
as
new
technology
expands.
Future
Development
in
the
Sphere
of
Influence
The
City’s
Sphere
of
Influence
consists
of
two
non-‐contiguous
areas:
a
small
area
at
its
north
boundary,
which
is
currently
developed
as
a
mix
of
single
family
homes
and
commercial
nurseries;
and
a
larger
area
at
the
east
side
of
the
City,
that
is
much
larger,
and
much
less
developed.
The
northern
Sphere,
which
totals
about
100
acres,
if
annexed
in
the
future,
is
likely
to
continue
as
a
single
family
home
area.
Because
of
its
small
land
area,
and
the
fact
that
75%
of
these
lands
are
developed,
no
major
change
in
character
is
expected.
The
southern
Sphere,
however,
consists
of
8,000
acres,
within
the
Vista
Santa
Rosa
Community.
Although
Vista
Santa
Rosa
is
in
unincorporated
Riverside
County,
it
has
traditionally
been
tightly
knit,
and
fiercely
protective
of
its
rural
character.
The
prior
City
General
Plan
had
placed
a
Low
Density
Residential
designation
on
the
majority
of
this
area,
with
the
addition
of
an
equestrian
overlay.
During
the
last
economic
boom,
lands
within
Vista
Santa
Rosa
experienced
significant
development
pressure,
and
several
projects
were
approved
but
never
developed.
Also
during
this
time,
Riverside
County
and
the
residents
and
landowners
of
Vista
Santa
Rosa
developed
a
Land
Use
Concept
Plan,
which
although
never
adopted,
represented
the
master
planning
of
the
area.
The
Concept
Plan
took
a
neo-‐traditional
planning
approach,
concentrating
development
along
Airport
Boulevard,
between
Jackson
Street
and
Van
Buren
Street,
and
allowing
residential
development
of
decreasing
density
to
the
south.
LAND
USE
II-‐21
The
City
was
approached
by
several
developers
and
land
owners
during
this
time
as
well.
Several
scattered
annexation
requests
were
considered,
and
some
initiated,
but
none
was
completed.
At
the
time,
the
most
significant
issues
were
tied
to
land
use
intensity
and
compatibility
with
Vista
Santa
Rosa’s
character,
and
the
fiscal
implications
of
annexation.
Because
the
majority
of
the
area
was
in
a
County
Redevelopment
Area,
the
City
would
have
received
no
property
tax
to
pay
for
services
upon
annexation.
Although
the
County’s
Redevelopment
Agency
has
been
eliminated,
as
have
all
Redevelopment
Agencies
in
the
State,
the
County
had
bonded
against
future
development
in
this
and
other
redevelopment
areas,
and
these
bonds
will
eliminate
the
potential
for
property
tax
revenues
for
the
City,
should
annexation
occur.
Although
these
bonds
will
eventually
be
paid
off,
limited
revenue
potential
associated
with
property
tax
will
remain
an
issue
for
a
number
of
years
in
this
area.
In
order
to
address
the
long
term
development
of
the
Vista
Santa
Rosa
community,
particularly
if
this
area
is
ever
annexed
to
the
City,
it
is
necessary
to
also
address
its
land
use
planning.
As
this
area
is
likely
to
experience
development
pressure
again
when
economic
conditions
improve,
its
long
term
land
use
plan
must
be
addressed
prior
to
the
consideration
of
individual
development
proposals.
In
order
to
achieve
a
long
term,
cohesive
and
successful
development
area,
master
planning
of
the
entire
southern
Sphere
area
must
be
undertaken.
This
Master
Plan
must
be
community
based,
and
must
balance
planning
principles
-‐-‐
including
limiting
urban
sprawl,
lowering
vehicle
trips
and
greenhouse
gas
emissions,
while
preserving
the
rural
character
of
this
area.
The
land
use
plan
must
also
demonstrate
that
the
Sphere,
once
annexed,
will
be
revenue
neutral
or
revenue
enhancing.
Annexation
must
not
create
a
revenue
drain
on
the
City
(please
also
see
the
Economic
Development
Element).
As
described
in
Policy
LU-‐1.4,
the
City
should
not
consider
annexation
of
any
part
of
the
southern
Sphere
of
Influence
prior
to
completion
of
this
proposed
Master
Plan,
to
assure
that
development
proceeds
in
a
manner
that
satisfies
good
planning
principles
and
stakeholders’
needs.
Open
Space
and
Recreation
Land
The
single
largest
land
use
designation
in
the
City
is
the
Open
Space
designation.
There
are
over
12,000
acres
of
natural
and
recreational
open
space
within
the
City
limits.
The
Natural
Open
Space
category
applies
particularly
to
lands
in
the
foothills
of
the
mountains
that
the
City
has
always
strived
to
preserve.
These
lands
provide
a
backdrop
to
the
development
on
the
Valley
LAND
USE
II-‐22
floor,
and
are
areas
important
to
biological
resource
preservation.
They
provide
an
important
social
and
economic
asset
to
the
City
that
cannot
be
under-‐valued.
The
Recreation
Open
Space
lands
in
the
City
are
primarily
golf
courses
and
parks,
which
also
provide
an
important
social
and
economic
value
in
the
City.
Golf
course
development
has
spurred
unparalleled
growth,
and
has
enhanced
the
tourism
industry
in
the
City.
Golf
courses
and
parks
provide
opportunity
for
outdoor
activity,
and
enhance
the
living
environment
for
the
City’s
residents.
This
Land
Use
Element
makes
no
change
to
Open
Space
land
use
designations.
It
preserves
these
lands
for
the
long
term,
and
reasserts
the
City’s
commitment
to
their
preservation.
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
As
described
in
this
Land
Use
Element,
the
City
faces
a
number
of
challenges
in
its
future
development.
Lands
within
the
City
are
limited,
and
its
build
out
will
likely
see
changes
in
the
character
of
development,
mostly
tied
to
changes
in
the
market
and
consumer
demand.
The
type
and
intensity
of
residential
development
may
change
in
the
future,
as
the
City’s
demographic
profile
changes,
and
people
look
for
different
housing
options,
whether
because
of
aging,
changing
lifestyles,
or
employment
choices.
The
mix
of
land
use
designations,
and
the
detailed
standards
provided
in
the
Zoning
Ordinance
for
residential
development,
will
allow
the
City
to
meet
these
needs,
regardless
of
the
type
of
housing
proposed,
and
enhance
the
quality
of
life
for
all.
The
City
will
also
see
redevelopment
of
older
properties
in
the
future,
and
must
be
prepared
to
consider
and
evaluate
new
development
concepts
that
may
change
over
time.
The
preservation
and
enhancement
of
development
standards
to
enhance
the
quality
of
life
for
the
City’s
residents,
businesses
and
visitors
is
central
to
the
success
of
these
development
projects.
This
Land
Use
Element
includes
policies
and
programs
to
address
anticipated
development
trends
in
the
future.
The
City
must
remember,
however,
that
trends
may
change
during
the
life
of
this
General
Plan,
and
may
require
change
in
the
policy
direction
in
this
document.
Periodic
review
of
the
Land
Use
Map
and
the
policies
and
LAND
USE
II-‐23
programs
in
this
Element
will
assure
that
the
City
is
able
to
meet
the
needs
of
its
population,
while
preserving
the
high
quality
of
development
it
is
known
for.
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
LU-‐1
Land
use
compatibility
throughout
the
City.
v Policy
LU-‐1.1
The
Land
Use
Map
shall
implement
the
goals
and
policies
of
the
Land
Use
Element
and
the
other
Elements
of
this
General
Plan.
Program
LU-‐1.1.a:
Maintain
consistency
between
the
Land
Use
Map
and
Zoning
Map,
consistent
with
the
Zoning
Designations
Consistency
Matrix.
Program
LU-‐1.1.b:
The
Zoning
Ordinance
will
include
design
standards
in
all
zoning
districts
that
assure
high
quality
development.
v Policy
LU-‐1.2
All
land
use
decisions
shall
be
consistent
with
all
applicable
General
Plan
policies
and
programs
and
shall
uphold
the
rights
and
needs
of
property
owners
as
well
as
those
of
the
general
public.
v Policy
LU-‐1.3
The
City
Council
shall
review
the
City’s
Sphere
of
Influence
every
five
years.
v Policy
LU-‐1.4
No
annexation
affecting
lands
in
the
southern
Sphere
of
Influence
(also
known
as
Vista
Santa
Rosa)
shall
occur
until
a
Master
Plan
for
this
area
has
been
adopted,
unless
the
annexation
is
required
for
municipal
purposes.
Program
LU-‐1.4.a:
The
Master
Plan
for
Vista
Santa
Rosa
will
include
an
active
and
aggressive
community
participation
program
to
ensure
that
community
character
is
reflected
in
the
Plan.
LAND
USE
II-‐24
Program
LU-‐1.4.b:
The
Master
Plan
for
Vista
Santa
Rosa
can
be
initiated
by
the
City,
or
by
property
owners
or
developers
who
are
willing
to
fund
the
project.
v Policy
LU-‐1.5
All
annexation
applications
by
land
owners
shall
include
a
fiscal
analysis
that
fully
addresses
the
fiscal
impact
of
the
proposed
annexation.
Subsequently,
all
annexation
applications
shall
also
include
a
Development
Agreement
application
or
other
mechanism
that
demonstrates
how
the
annexation
will
be
revenue
neutral
or
revenue
positive
for
the
City.
GOAL
LU-‐2
High
quality
design
that
complements
and
enhances
the
City.
v Policy
LU-‐2.1
Changes
and
variations
from
the
Zoning
Ordinance
in
a
Specific
Plan
will
be
offset
by
high
quality
design,
amenities
and
mix
of
land
uses.
v Policy
LU-‐2.2
Specific
Plans
shall
be
required
for
projects
proposing
the
integration
of
recreation,
tourist
commercial
and
residential
uses;
and
for
all
projects
proposing
flexible
development
standards
that
differ
from
the
Zoning
Ordinance.
Program
LU-‐2.2.a:
Maintain
detailed
requirements
for
the
preparation
of
Specific
Plans
in
the
Zoning
Ordinance.
Program
LU-‐2.2.b:
The
Planning
Director
will
determine
substantial
conformance
in
approved
Specific
Plans.
Program
LU-‐2.2.c:
The
Planning
Director
has
the
authority
to
waive
the
need
for
a
Specific
Plan
amendment
under
the
following
circumstances:
§ When
changes
to
the
land
use
allocation
are
less
than
5%;
§ When
the
off-‐site
circulation
pattern
and
turning
movements
will
not
be
altered
by
the
proposed
change;
§ When
the
change
is
considered
minor
in
nature
and
does
not
conflict
with
the
purpose
and
intent
of
the
Specific
Plan;
or
§ When
no
new
land
use
is
proposed.
LAND
USE
II-‐25
v Policy
LU-‐2.3
The
City’s
outdoor
lighting
ordinance
will
be
maintained.
v Policy
LU-‐2.4
Planning
for
all
major
community
facilities
shall
carefully
consider
the
potential
impacts
to
adjacent
development,
particularly
residential
development.
Program
LU-‐2.4.a:
Maintain
standards
for
municipal
facilities,
utility
substations,
schools
and
similar
public
facilities
in
the
Zoning
Ordinance.
v Policy
LU-‐2.5
Public
and
utility
projects
shall
be
subject
to
the
same
standards
as
the
development
community.
v Policy
LU-‐2.6
Participate
in
efforts
to
preserve
and
protect
sensitive
resources
throughout
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence,
in
support
of
the
CVMSHCP.
Program
LU-‐2.6.a:
Maintain
and
enforce
the
Hillside
Preservation
Ordinance.
Program
LU-‐2.6.b:
Amend
the
Land
Use
Map
as
necessary
to
ensure
the
preservation
of
sensitive
resources
through
the
designation
of
open
space.
Program
LU-‐2.6.c:
Encourage
the
use
of
native
landscaping
and
“links”
golf
courses
that
preserve
areas
of
natural
terrain
and
native
vegetation.
v Policy
LU-‐2.7
Continue
to
include
park
facilities
planning
in
neighborhood
planning
efforts.
Program
LU-‐2.7.a:
Continue
to
utilize
the
Quimby
Act
to
charge
park
fees
and
allow
for
park
development.
Program
LU-‐2.7.b:
Incorporate
park
planning
into
annexation
studies
and
annexation
community
outreach
efforts.
LAND
USE
II-‐26
GOAL
LU-‐3
Safe
and
identifiable
neighborhoods
that
provide
a
sense
of
place.
v Policy
LU-‐3.1
Encourage
the
preservation
of
neighborhood
character
and
assure
a
consistent
and
compatible
land
use
pattern.
Program
LU-‐3.1.a:
Periodically
review
land
use
designations
to
assure
that
changes
in
the
community
and
marketplace
are
met.
Program
LU-‐3.1.b:
Apply
the
City’s
discretionary
powers
and
site
development
review
process
consistently
to
assure
that
subdivision
and
development
plans
are
compatible
with
existing
residential
areas.
v Policy
LU-‐3.2
Density
transfers
may
occur
in
Specific
Plans
when
common
area
amenities
and
open
space
are
provided.
v 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-‐4
Maintenance
and
protection
of
existing
neighborhoods.
v Policy
LU-‐4.1
Encourage
compatible
development
adjacent
to
existing
neighborhoods
and
infrastructure.
LAND
USE
II-‐27
Program
LU-‐4.1.a:
Continue
to
use
creative
planning
techniques,
including
the
merger
of
small
residential
lots
in
the
Cove,
to
encourage
development
in
existing
neighborhoods.
v Policy
LU-‐4.2
Capital
improvement
projects
for
developed
areas
in
the
City
should
be
of
first
priority,
to
encourage
infill
development.
Program
LU-‐4.2.a:
Require
necessary
improvement/extension
of
intervening
roadways
and
infrastructure
to
serve
new
development.
GOAL
LU-‐5
A
broad
range
of
housing
types
and
choices
for
all
residents
of
the
City.
v Policy
LU-‐5.1
Use
development
incentives
to
achieve
a
mix
of
housing,
including
affordable
housing.
Program
LU-‐5.1.a:
Monitor
the
progress
made
to
achieve
Housing
Element
mandated
goals
for
the
provision
of
housing,
and
consider
amendments
to
the
General
Plan
when
necessary
to
help
achieve
those
goals.
v Policy
LU-‐5.2
Consider
changes
in
market
demand
in
residential
product
type
to
meet
the
needs
of
current
and
future
residents.
Program
LU-‐5.2.a:
Periodically
review
and
update,
as
needed,
the
standards
of
the
Zoning
Ordinance
to
allow
for
changes
in
residential
product
types
without
the
need
for
a
Specific
Plan.
Program
LU-‐5.2.b:
Include
detailed
residential
development
standards
in
the
Mixed
Use
Overlay
zoning
district.
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.
LAND
USE
II-‐28
v Policy
LU-‐6.1
Commercial
land
use
designations
shall
allow
a
full
range
of
retail,
office,
resort
and
institutional
businesses
in
the
City.
Program
LU-‐6.1.a:
As
part
of
the
update
of
the
Economic
Development
Plan,
review
the
Land
Use
Map
regularly
to
assure
that
sufficient
lands
are
designated
for
commercial
uses
which
support
the
needs
of
the
community
and
surrounding
areas.
Program
LU-‐6.1.b:
Encourage
the
integration
of
a
wide
range
of
support
services
at
employment
centers,
including
child
care,
occupational
health,
fitness
facilities
and
convenience
retail
shops.
Program
LU-‐6.1.c:
Maintain
economic
and
demographic
statistical
data
and
make
this
data
available
to
the
development
community
and
other
interested
parties.
v Policy
LU-‐6.2
Maintain
commercial
development
standards
in
the
Zoning
Ordinance,
including
set
backs,
height,
pad
elevations
and
other
design
and
performance
standards
that
assure
a
high
quality
of
development.
v Policy
LU-‐6.3
Support
and
encourage
the
expansion
of
the
resort
industry
as
a
key
component
of
the
City’s
economic
base.
Program
LU-‐6.3.a:
Provide
standards
for
a
broad
range
of
tourist
commercial
land
uses
in
the
Zoning
Ordinance
v Policy
LU-‐6.4
Support
the
development
of
a
broad
range
of
non-‐polluting,
carefully
planned
industrial
uses.
Program
LU-‐6.4.a:
Include
provisions
for
industrial
development,
including
development
standards,
permitted
and
conditionally
permitted
land
uses
in
the
Zoning
Ordinance.
v Policy
LU-‐6.5
Industrial
lands
shall
be
located
along
major
transportation
corridors,
and
in
areas
that
maximize
all
available
infrastructure.
LAND
USE
II-‐29
v Policy
LU-‐6.6
Encourage
the
development
of
vocational
and
technical
programs
in
the
educational
system
to
help
the
industrial
sector
find
qualified
local
employees.
v Policy
LU-‐6.7
Consider
the
airport
Master
Plan
in
all
development
proposals
adjacent
to
the
Jacqueline
Cochran
Airport.
Program
LU-‐6.7.a:
Standards
for
development
adjacent
to
airports
shall
be
developed
which
maximize
the
need
for
public
safety.
Program
LU-‐6.7.b:
Projects
located
within
the
influence
area
of
the
Airport’s
Land
Use
Plan
will
include
review
and
analysis
of
their
conformance
with
the
Land
Use
Plan
in
their
application
submittal.
GOAL
LU-‐7
Innovative
land
uses
in
the
Village
and
on
Highway
111.
v 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.
v Policy
LU-‐7.2
Mixed
Use
developments
within
300
feet
of
Highway
111
must
include
retail
commercial
development
for
at
least
75%
of
the
ground
floor
leasable
area.
v Policy
LU-‐7.3
Encourage
the
use
of
vacant
pads
in
existing
commercial
development
on
Highway
111
for
residential
use.
Program
LU-‐7.3.a:
Amend
the
Zoning
Ordinance
to
include
standards
for
high
density
residential
development
within
commercial
zones.
v Policy
LU-‐7.4
Develop
incentives
for
Mixed
Use
projects.
LAND
USE
II-‐30
Program
LU-‐7.4.a:
Consider
density
bonuses,
modified
parking
requirements,
expedited
entitlement
and
building
permit
processing
and
fee
waivers
for
Mixed
Use
projects.
v Policy
LU-‐7.5
Develop
a
Master
Non-‐Motorized
Transportation
Plan
for
the
Village.
v Policy
LU-‐7.6
Review
and
amend,
as
necessary,
the
Village
Design
Guidelines
to
allow
maximum
flexibility
for
Mixed
Use
projects.
v 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.
Program
LU-‐7.7.a:
Plan
for
and
fund
a
City
parking
structure
in
the
Capital
Improvement
Program.
v Policy
LU-‐7.8
Encourage
the
expansion
of
transit
service
to
meet
commuter
needs.
Program
LU-‐7.8.a:
Expand
transit
opportunities
on
Highway
111
and
to
the
Village
to
allow
a
broad
range
of
services
(including
special
event
shuttle
services).
RELATED
GOALS
As
described
above,
this
Element
relates
to
others
in
this
General
Plan.
The
following
Goals,
and
their
associated
policies
and
programs,
are
closely
related
to
those
of
this
Element.
GOAL
SC-‐1:
A
community
that
provides
the
best
possible
quality
of
life
for
all
its
residents.
GOAL
ED-‐1:
A
balanced
and
varied
economic
base
serving
both
the
City’s
residents
and
the
region.
GOAL
PR-‐1:
A
comprehensive
system
of
parks,
and
recreation
facilities
and
services
that
meet
the
active
and
passive
needs
of
all
residents
and
visitors.
GOAL
OS-‐3:
Preservation
of
scenic
resources
as
vital
contributors
to
the
City’s
economic
health
and
overall
quality
of
life.
LAND
USE
II-‐31
THIS
PAGE
INTENTIONALLY
LEFT
BLANK
CIRCULATION
II-‐33
CIRCULATION
PURPOSE
The
Circulation
Element
has
been
designed
to
assure
the
provision
of
a
multi-‐modal
transportation
system
that
responds
to
the
full
range
of
transportation
needs.
The
Element
takes
into
account
existing
and
long
term
regional
traffic
and
transportation
infrastructure
needs.
Its
purpose
is
to
correlate
with
community
and
regional
land
use
plans
to
assure
a
transportation
network
that
moves
motorized
and
non-‐
motorized
vehicles,
and
pedestrians,
safely
and
efficiently
through
the
City
and
region.
Therefore,
the
Circulation
Element
must
assure
that
the
City’s
transportation
system
ties
into
the
network
beyond
the
city
limits.
The
Circulation
Element
incorporates
regional
plans
and
facilities,
and
helps
assure
cost-‐effective
and
comprehensive
transportation
management.
Thoughtful
land
planning
and
a
logical
and
well-‐
conceived
hierarchy
of
local
and
regional
streets
will
allow
the
City
to
balance
transportation
infrastructure
and
quality
of
life.
In
addition
to
its
close
relationship
to
the
Land
Use
Element,
the
Circulation
Element
is
also
directly
tied
to
the
Housing,
Air
Quality,
Noise,
Public
Infrastructure,
and
Economic
Development
Elements,
among
others.
The
Livable
Community,
Flooding
and
Hydrology,
and
Parks,
Recreation
and
Trails
Elements
are
also
related
to,
affect
and
are
affected
by
the
Circulation
Element.
Finally,
the
General
Plan
is
mandated
to
address
all
systems
that
move
people,
goods,
energy,
water,
sewage,
storm
drainage,
and
communications.
To
the
extent
these
systems
overlap,
they
are
discussed
in
this
Element.
The
Circulation
Element
is
compliant
with
California
Government
Code
Section
65302(b),
which
directs
jurisdictions
to
prepare
General
Plans
that
identify
existing
and
proposed
major
thoroughfares,
transportation
routes,
and
other
local
public
CIRCULATION
II-‐34
utilities
and
facilities.
Recently
adopted
65302(b)(2)(A)
of
the
Government
Code
provides
direction
on
how
the
Circulation
Element
shall
address
the
requirements
of
the
Complete
Streets
Act.
As
set
forth
in
Government
Code
Sections
65103(f)
and
65080,
the
City
is
required
to
coordinate
its
Circulation
Element
provisions
with
the
applicable
regional
transportation
plan.
In
the
General
Plan
study
area
these
regional
agencies
include
the
California
Department
of
Transportation
(Caltrans),
the
Coachella
Valley
Association
of
Governments
(CVAG),
the
Southern
California
Association
of
Governments
(SCAG)
and
the
SunLine
Transit
Agency.
In
addition,
federal
and
state
transportation
planning
must
be
coordinated
with
local
planning
pursuant
to
Section
134,
Title
23
of
the
U.S.
Code
and
California
Government
Code
Section
65080(a),
respectively.
Assembly
Bill
32
(AB
32),
The
Global
Warming
Solutions
Act
of
2006,
requires
the
reduction
of
pollutants
that
contribute
to
greenhouse
gas
(GHG)
emissions
and
climate
change,
including
vehicular
emissions.
The
California
Air
Resources
Board
(CARB)
has
identified
passenger
vehicles
as
the
number
one
emitter
of
GHG
emissions
in
California
and
asserts
that
improved
land
use
and
transportation
policy
are
essential
to
the
State
meeting
AB
32
goals.
Air
quality
and
GHG
emissions
are
associated
with
growing
traffic
volumes
and
infrastructure
demand.
Senate
Bill
375
(SB
375)
builds
on
the
existing
regional
transportation
planning
process
to
connect
the
reduction
of
GHG
emissions
from
cars
and
light
trucks
to
regional
land
use
and
infrastructure
planning.
SB375
requires
that
all
communities
establish
policies
that
will
reduce
the
need
for
traditional
automobile
travel,
and
encourage
the
use
of
transit
and
other
forms
of
alternative
transportation.
Land
use
patterns
and
the
existing
transportation
infrastructure
play
a
direct
role
in
the
rate
and
growth
of
vehicle
miles
traveled
(VMT).
They
influence
the
distance
that
people
travel
and
the
mode
of
travel
they
choose.
Studies
show
that
even
with
aggressive
state
and
federal
vehicle
efficiency
standards
and
the
use
of
alternative
fuels,
meeting
the
State’s
GHG
reduction
goals
will
require
a
reduction
in
how
much
the
average
Californian
drives
as
well
as
a
change
in
the
type
of
vehicles
we
drive.
Reducing
miles
traveled
is
challenged
by
H
w
y
1
1
1
CIRCULATION
II-‐35
conventional
land
use
planning.
For
instance,
between
1970
and
2000,
California's
population
grew
by
about
70
percent,
while
vehicle
miles
traveled
during
that
same
period
grew
by
162
percent.
State
mandates
combined
with
sound
community
planning
can
do
much
to
address
the
transportation-‐related
emission
of
pollutants
and
GHGs.
These
include
complementary
land
use
planning
discussed
elsewhere
in
the
Circulation
Element
and
throughout
the
General
Plan.
Other
steps
that
can
be
taken
include
optimizing
the
availability
and
use
of
non-‐motorized
modes
of
transportation,
ultimately
encouraging
walking
and
cycling.
As
the
vehicle
fleet
transitions
to
alternative
fuels
and
electric
vehicles
we
will
also
see
a
reduction
in
transportation-‐
related
emissions.
BACKGROUND
The
movement
of
people
and
goods
through
the
City
and
Coachella
Valley
can
be
profoundly
affected
by
whether
and
how
well
our
communities
thrive
economically.
The
La
Quinta
Circulation
Element
is
a
direct
outgrowth
of
existing
development,
local
and
regional
land
use
and
transportation
planning,
and
data
collection
and
analysis.
The
Element
relies
on
the
modeling
of
existing
and
future
traffic
conditions
in
the
City
and
the
surrounding
Coachella
Valley
region.
Constraints
and
Opportunities
The
City’s
transportation-‐
related
constraints
and
opportunities
are
roughly
equally
balanced.
The
City
is
the
last
and
most
southerly
“cove
community”
in
the
Coachella
Valley,
and
has
evolved
along
and
out
from
the
coves
and
foothills
of
the
Santa
Rosa
Mountains.
As
a
result,
a
large
portion
of
the
City’s
population
lives
in
a
geographic
cul-‐de-‐sac,
where
there
are
limited
outlets
to
the
more
broadly
distributed
roadway
network
on
the
valley
floor
to
the
north
and
east.
Yet
the
City’s
original
Village
continues
to
serve
as
a
community
and
area-‐wide
draw
to
resident,
visitor
and
business
traffic.
Over
the
past
two
decades,
the
City
has
nearly
built
out
on
the
northern
portions
of
the
corporate
limits.
Development
in
the
City
has
continued
farther
southeast
along
the
mountain
foothills
and
out
onto
La
Quinta
Cove
Looking
South
CIRCULATION
II-‐36
the
adjoining
desert
floor.
Planning
efforts
southeast
of
the
City,
including
a
portion
of
its
Sphere
of
Influence,
have
ranged
from
continued
agricultural
uses
to
planned
mixed-‐use
communities,
with
neighborhood
and
community
commercial
services
planned
along
Avenue
62
and
near
Highway
86.
Regional
Transportation
Plans
(RTPs)
The
City,
CVAG
and
SCAG
have
been
coordinating
the
maintenance
and
updating
of
the
Regional
Transportation
Plan
(RTP).
The
RTP’s
goal
is
to
achieve
an
integrated
and
balanced
regional
transportation
system,
including
mass
transit,
highways,
railroads,
bicycle,
walking,
goods
movement,
maritime
transport,
and
aviation.
The
RTP
is
meant
to
be
action-‐oriented
and
pragmatic,
and
to
consider
both
short-‐term
and
long-‐term
issues.
The
RTP
establishes
the
region’s
priorities
for
funding
transportation
infrastructure
projects
and
other
transportation
programs.
The
RTP
Guidelines
recommend
multimodal
transportation
network
policies
and
the
identification
of
the
financial
resources
necessary
to
accommodate
such
policies.
Local
and
regional
transportation
planning
must
also
consider
opportunities
to
accelerate
programming
for
projects
that
retrofit
or
rehabilitate
existing
roads
to
provide
safe
and
convenient
travel
by
all
users.
Regional
planning
requires
working
with
CVAG,
Riverside
County
and
Valley
cities
to
ensure
that
the
Circulation
Element
and
local
street
and
road
standards
are
coordinated
and
support
the
needs
of
all
transportation
system
users.
Land
Use
Patterns
and
Transportation
Planning
The
Land
Use
Element’s
existing
and
future
land
use
patterns
shape
the
demand
for
transportation
services
and
facilities.
Land
use
efficiencies
have
a
direct
effect
on
how,
when
and
where
traffic
is
generated.
Land
use
efficiencies
are
affected
by
densities,
diversity
and
proximity
of
mixed
land
uses.
The
General
Plan
update
reflects
development
trends
in
both
City
and
regional
land
use
moving
toward
a
more
closely
integrated
grouping
of
land
uses.
This
can
reduce
the
need
for
travel
outside
the
neighborhood
by,
for
example,
providing
shopping
within
walking
or
biking
distance
of
homes.
CIRCULATION
II-‐37
As
the
City
plans
its
transportation
system
through
the
year
2035,
it
is
assumed
that
the
City
will
continue
to
serve
as
the
premier
destination
golf
resort
community
in
the
valley.
While
permanent
residents
will
continue
to
comprise
the
majority
of
community
traffic,
seasonal
traffic
volumes
can
increase
by
up
30%
between
late
fall
and
early
spring.
The
transportation
issues
faced
by
the
City
and
the
Coachella
Valley
include
low
occupancy
per
vehicle,
a
substantial
physical
separation
between
employment
and
housing
in
the
region,
and
the
established
roadway
network.
As
a
result,
the
buildout
of
the
La
Quinta
planning
area
and
the
Coachella
Valley
could
result
in
even
more
intractable
traffic
and
transportation
challenges.
Optimizing
Land
Use
and
Transportation
Planning
According
to
the
FHWA
National
Household
Travel
Surveys,
on
average,
25%
of
vehicle
trips
are
between
home
and
work,
while
most
of
the
other
75%
are
short
trips
-‐-‐
running
errands,
picking
up
the
kids
and
other
local
trips.
With
this
understanding,
the
Land
Use
Element
can
better
reflect
the
need
for
proximity
of
homes
to
schools,
shops
and
business
centers.
This
proximity
of
complementary
land
uses
allows
more
people
to
walk,
bike
or
use
a
golf
cart
or
NEV,
and
reduces
demand
for
roadway
capacity.
The
mandates
associated
with
SB375
require
increased
vehicle
occupancy,
mixed-‐use
and
transit
oriented
development,
and
use
of
mass
transit
systems.
La
Quinta
may
have
a
natural
advantage
in
facilitating
the
use
of
alternative
modes
of
travel,
especially
golf
carts/NEVs.
In
addition,
the
high
number
of
service
jobs
in
the
community
and
region
should
encourage
the
location
of
bus
stops
within
a
ten-‐minute
walk,
or
easy
bicycling
distance
between
residential
neighborhoods
and
employment
centers.
The
City’s
neighborhoods
can
be
protected
from
the
impacts
from
noise,
and
vehicle
emissions
can
be
minimized
by
shortening
or
eliminating
vehicle
trips.
Transit-‐Oriented
Land
Planning
Historically,
most
urban
development
was
centered
around
mass-‐
transit,
starting
with
ports
and
harbors,
and
in
the
19th
century,
Civic
Center
Bus
Stop
CIRCULATION
II-‐38
railroads.
Train
stations
generated
a
need
for
commercial
activities
such
as
buses,
taxis
and
car
rentals
services,
hotels,
restaurants,
shopping,
newsstands
and
convenience
services.
Today,
many
transit-‐
oriented
developments
also
incorporate
employment
centers,
such
as
professional
office,
entertainment
retail
and
high-‐density
housing.
Public
transit
is
not
currently
well
utilized
in
La
Quinta
or
the
region.
Transit-‐oriented
land
planning
may
have
limited
application
in
the
City
in
the
immediate
future,
but
it
is
evolving,
and
future
efforts
should
be
made
to
maximize
the
accessibility
and
efficiency
of
the
transit
system.
Features
that
make
transit
systems
efficient
include
short
direct
routes
and
minimum
time
between
the
point
of
origin
and
destination.
Frequent
buses
on
a
route
reduce
headway
(waits
between
buses)
and
thoughtful
interconnectivity
with
other
routes
increases
the
efficiency
of
transfers.
The
Highway
111
corridor
and
the
“Village”
area
of
the
City
offer
some
potential
for
transit-‐based
land
use
planning.
To
be
effective,
higher
density
residential
development
should
be
planned
in
the
vicinity
of
bus
routes.
Such
housing
must
also
be
affordable
and
appealing
to
those
in
the
service
and
retail
industries
that
are
more
likely
to
take
advantage
of
transit
services.
Transit-‐oriented
residential
development
should
also
be
located
close
to
schools
and
commercial
services.
Bus
stops
should
be
located
within
a
ten-‐minute
walk
of
housing
and
major
employment
areas.
Major
stops
should
include
facilities
that
allow
for
park-‐and-‐ride,
and
the
parking
of
bicycles
and
golf
carts
or
NEVs.
Critical
levels
of
ridership
are
needed
to
justify
investment
in
transit-‐
oriented
facilities
and
services.
Dispersed,
low-‐density
development
results
in
fewer
riders
per
route
mile,
and
longer
trips
from
trip
origin
to
destination.
Creation
of
critical
ridership
is
essential
to
justify
the
investment
needed
to
provide
adequate
levels
of
infrastructure
and
service.
The
City
and
SunLine
Transit
Agency
must
strike
a
balance
of
riders
and
destinations,
and
assure
logical
and
efficient
connections
through
simple
and
direct
routes.
Future
development
in
the
southeast
portion
of
the
planning
area
will
provide
important
opportunities
for
the
type
of
integrated
mixed-‐use
neighborhoods
that
can
take
advantage
of
transit.
Neighborhood
Transportation
Planning
The
City
roadway
system,
ranging
from
local
streets
to
major
arterials,
should
be
distributed
and
scaled
to
address
existing
and
projected
demand.
At
the
same
time,
the
street
system
should
be
designed
to
assure
that
local
traffic
stays
local,
and
regional
travel
is
efficiently
channeled
to
collectors
and
arterials.
The
design
of
the
roadway
CIRCULATION
II-‐39
network
should
facilitate
arterial
use
while
protecting
local
neighborhoods
from
cut-‐through
and
other
non-‐local
traffic.
This
segregation
of
local
and
through
traffic
occurs
throughout
the
City
and
it’s
many
gated
communities.
The
use
of
traffic
calming
designs,
such
as
narrower
road
widths,
medians,
and
circuitous
routes
convenient
only
to
local
traffic,
will
also
serve
to
preserve
neighborhoods
from
undue
traffic
impacts.
Traffic
Calming
Simply
stated,
traffic
calming
is
the
implementation
of
design
features
that
slow
down
traffic
and
improve
safety.
Traffic
calming
is
also
used
to
adjust
the
flow
of
traffic
to
levels
compatible
with
surrounding
land
uses,
such
as
residential
neighborhoods,
parks,
schools
and
pedestrian-‐
oriented
shopping
areas.
Calming
is
typically
accomplished
by
imposing
constraints
on
movement
and
by
providing
less
generous
roadway
paved
sections.
Such
design
features
as
curvilinear
streets,
narrow
travel
lanes
and
landscaped
median
islands
act
to
slow
down
traffic
and
require
greater
awareness
of
the
driver.
The
more
generous
landscaping
resulting
from
narrower
paved
streets
also
improves
neighborhood
aesthetics.
Conflicts
can
arise
between
traffic
calming
efforts
and
the
need
to
provide
adequate
access
for
police,
fire
and
other
emergency
vehicles.
One
fundamental
requirement
is
a
minimum
20-‐foot
clear
lane
for
emergency
vehicles
along
streets
or
alleys,
regardless
of
whether
on-‐
street
parking
is
permitted.
Accommodating
both
traffic
calming
and
adequate
emergency
vehicle
access
can
be
achieved
through
thoughtful
design
of
the
roadway
network
to
shorten
segments
of
narrower
streets,
the
provision
of
alleys
for
alternative
access,
parking
restrictions
and
through
other
means.
Rights-‐of-‐way
and
pavement
widths
may
be
reduced
with
the
provision
of
other
design
features
that
assure
adequate
emergency
vehicle
access.
Traffic
calming
devices
typically
come
in
two
varieties:
horizontal
and
vertical.
Horizontal
designs
include
chicanes
(weaving
patterns),
mini-‐
traffic
circles,
median
slow
points
or
chokers,
and
intersection
pop-‐
outs.
Vertical
devices
include
road
bumps
or
speed
tables,
speed
bumps
and
raised
crosswalks.
The
City
has
developed
a
Traffic
Calming
Program1
that
describes
the
conditions,
options
and
practices
of
traffic
calming.
In
addition
to
summarizing
the
regulatory
process
associated
with
traffic
calming,
1
"Neighborhood
Traffic
Management
Program",
prepared
by
the
Department
of
Public
Works.
2008.
CIRCULATION
II-‐40
the
program
also
provides
guidance
on
technical
and
management
approaches
appropriate
to
a
wide
range
of
circumstances.
Issues
associated
with
parking,
emergency
access,
utilities
and
other
roadway
users
are
also
addressed
in
the
City's
traffic
calming
program.
Accommodating
Utility
Services
In
addition
to
moving
people
and
goods,
the
transportation
network
also
serves
as
a
route
for
other
public
infrastructure,
including
drainage,
water
and
sewer
lines,
electricity,
telephone
and
cable.
These
will
generally
be
comparable
in
scale
to
the
capacity
of
the
roadway,
but
their
installation
and
maintenance
can
sometimes
conflict
with
roadway
operations,
including
unsatisfactory
closure
and
re-‐paving
of
utility
trenches,
and
the
manner
and
efficacy
of
traffic
control.
Levels
of
Service
Level
of
Service
(LOS)
is
the
qualitative
characterization
of
the
capacity
and
operation
of
a
segment
of
roadway
or
an
intersection.
For
roadway
segment
travel,
LOS
is
a
measure
of
the
flow
of
traffic,
while
for
intersections
the
LOS
is
based
on
the
number
of
seconds
the
vehicle
is
delayed
in
passing
through
the
intersection.
LOS
includes
a
range
of
alphabetical
connotations
“A”
through
“F”,
with
LOS
A
representing
the
best/free-‐flow
conditions
and
LOS
F
indicating
the
worst/system
failure.
Roadway
segment
and
intersection
levels
of
service
are
represented
as
volume
to
capacity
ratios,
or
vehicle
demand
divided
by
roadway
capacity.
Therefore,
as
the
ratio
approaches
1.00,
or
maximum
capacity,
the
roadway
approaches
LOS
F.
Additional
travel
and
turning
lanes
increase
capacity,
as
do
the
inclusion
of
raised
medians
and
restricted
access
on
a
roadway.
Restricted
access
and
raised
medians
increase
roadway
capacity
by
reducing
the
number
of
vehicle
conflict
points
and
improving
traffic
flows.
Restricted
access
avoids
loss
of
capacity
caused
by
interruptions
and
disruptions
to
traffic
flow
resulting
from
vehicles
coming
onto
or
leaving
the
roadway.
The
various
LOS
classifications
for
roadway
segments
are
set
forth
in
the
table
below.
Caution
should
be
used
in
applying
the
letter
(A
through
F)
delineators
to
levels
of
service,
which
for
roadway
segments
are
qualitative
rather
than
quantitative
assessments
of
performance
characteristics.
While
a
helpful
qualifier
of
roadway
performance,
the
volume
to
capacity
ratio
provides
a
better
quantitative
assessment
of
roadway
operating
conditions.
CIRCULATION
II-‐41
Table
II-‐6
Level
Of
Service
Description
Mid-‐Link
and
Uninterrupted
Flow
Level
of
Quality
of
Traffic
Flow
Volume/Capacity
Service
Ratio
A
Free
flowing,
low
volumes,
high
speed;
speed
not
restricted
by
other
vehicles
in
the
traffic
stream.
0.00
-‐
0.60
B
Operating
speeds
and
maneuverability
in
the
range
of
stable
flow,
but
presence
by
other
traffic
begins
to
be
noticeable.
Freedom
to
select
desired
speeds
is
relatively
unaffected,
but
there
is
a
slight
decline
in
the
freedom
to
maneuver.
0.61
-‐
0.70
C
Operating
speeds
and
maneuverability
significantly
controlled
by
other
traffic
Quality
of
operations
still
within
the
range
of
stable
flow.
0.71
-‐
0.80
D
Tolerable
operating
speeds,
high
traffic
density
but
stable
flows;
often
used
as
design
standard
in
urban
areas.
At
this
level,
speed
and
freedom
to
maneuver
are
severely
restricted.
Drivers
experience
general
discomfort
and
inconvenience.
0.81
-‐
0.90
E
At
or
near
maximum
traffic
volume
a
roadway
can
Accommodate
during
peak
traffic
periods.
Low
speed
but
uniform
traffic
density.
“Maximum
Capacity”.
Highly
susceptible
to
breakdowns
in
flow.
0.91
-‐
1.00
F
System
failure;
long
queues
of
traffic;
unstable
flows;
stoppages
of
long
duration;
traffic
volume
and
speed
can
drop
to
zero;
traffic
volume
will
be
less
than
the
volume
which
occurs
at
Level
of
Service
E.
Not
Meaningful
Source:
Highway
Capacity
Manual,
Transportation
Research
Board
-‐
Special
Report
209,
National
Academy
of
Science,
Washington,
D.C.
1997.
CIRCULATION
II-‐42
Flexible
Application
of
LOS
Level
of
Service
should
not
be
viewed
as
the
sole
determinant
of
acceptability.
There
is
and
will
continue
to
be
a
need
to
provide
flexibility
in
determining
an
acceptable
level
of
service
for
a
given
roadway
or
intersection.
Although
accepting
a
lower
level
of
service
(LOS
E
or
even
F)
at
certain
intersections
and
segments
during
peak
season
may
result
in
periodic
congestion,
once
familiar
with
network
constraints,
travelers
will
seek
alternative
paths
and
traffic
will
be
distributed
to
those
parts
of
the
network
with
surplus
capacity.
Part
of
this
consideration
includes
the
application
of
the
Complete
Streets
design
philosophy,
which
is
especially
relevant
to
La
Quinta.
While
taking
every
measure
to
accommodate
vehicular
traffic
may
help
move
cars
and
trucks
more
efficiently
through
the
community,
this
effort
can
result
in
streets
that
will
not
safely
accommodate
pedestrian,
cyclists
or
NEVs.
Therefore,
the
need
to
move
vehicles
must
be
balanced
with
the
need
to
provide
opportunities
for
other
modes
of
travel.
Intersection
Analysis
Method
Intersections
represent
the
most
constrained
portion
of
the
roadway
network.
In
the
General
Plan
Traffic
Impact
Analysis,
intersection
levels
of
service
were
analyzed
using
the
Highway
Capacity
Manual
(HCM)
2000
operations
method.
The
Highway
Capacity
Manual
expresses
the
Level
of
Service
at
an
intersection
in
terms
of
delay
or
waiting
time
to
get
through
the
various
intersection
approaches.
For
signalized
intersections,
average
total
delay
per
vehicle
is
used
to
determine
the
LOS.
Intersection
LOS
is
defined
quantitatively
in
the
following
table.
A
more
detailed
discussion
of
LOS
values
can
be
found
in
the
General
Plan
Traffic
Impact
Analysis
in
the
Program
EIR
Technical
Appendices.
CIRCULATION
II-‐43
Table
II-‐7
Intersection
Levels
of
Service
Level
of
Service
Description
Signalized
Intersection
Delay
(seconds
per
vehicle)
Unsignalized
Intersection
Delay
(seconds
per
vehicle)
A
Excellent
operation.
All
approaches
to
the
intersection
appear
quite
open,
turning
movements
are
easily
made,
and
nearly
all
drivers
find
freedom
of
operation.
<
10
<
10
B
Very
good
operation.
Many
drivers
begin
to
feel
somewhat
restricted
within
platoons
of
vehicles.
This
represents
stable
flow.
An
approach
to
an
intersection
may
occasionally
be
fully
utilized
and
traffic
queues
start
to
form.
>10
and
<
20
>10
and
<
15
C
Good
operation.
Occasionally
drivers
may
have
to
wait
more
than
60
seconds,
and
back-‐ups
may
develop
behind
turning
vehicles.
Most
drivers
feel
somewhat
restricted
>20
and
<
35
>15
and
<
25
D
Fair
operation.
Cars
are
sometimes
required
to
wait
more
than
60
seconds
during
short
peaks.
There
are
no
long-‐standing
traffic
queues.
>35
and
<
55
>25
and
<
35
E
Poor
operation.
Some
long-‐
standing
vehicular
queues
develop
on
critical
approaches
to
intersections.
>55
and
<
80
>35
and
<
50
F
Forced
flow.
Represents
jammed
conditions.
Backups
form
locations
downstream
or
on
the
cross
street
may
restrict
or
prevent
movement
of
vehicles
out
of
the
intersection
approach
lanes;
therefore,
volumes
carried
are
not
predictable.
Potential
for
stop
and
go
type
traffic
flow.
>
80
>
50
Source:
Highway
Capacity
Manual,
Special
Report
209,
Transportation
Research
Board,
Washington,
DC,
2000.
CIRCULATION
II-‐44
Roadway
Capacity
Capacity
is
generally
defined
as
the
number
of
vehicles
that
may
pass
over
a
section
of
roadway
in
a
given
time
period
under
prevailing
conditions.
Capacities
of
roadways
are
most
restricted
by
intersection
design
and
operation,
which
are
discussed
further
below.
Typically,
the
PM
peak
hour
is
the
heaviest
traffic
flow
of
the
day.
However,
it
should
be
noted
that
in
the
planning
area
the
peak
daily
traffic
volumes
are
spread
across
a
greater
time
period,
rather
than
the
typical
AM
and
PM
peak
periods.
The
following
table
describes
the
various
capacity
values
assigned
for
differing
roadway
sizes
and
levels
of
service.
Table
II-‐8
City
Roadway
Classifications
Level
of
Service
Volumes/Capacity
Values
(Average
Daily
Trips
–
ADT)
Facility
Type
Lane
Confi-‐
guration
LOS
A
(60%)
LOS
B
(70%)
LOS
C
(80%)
LOS
D
(90%)
LOS
E
(100%)
LOS
F
Local
2U
<5,490
5,490
-‐
6,390
6,390
-‐
7,290
7,290
-‐
8,190
8,190
-‐
9,000
>9,000
Collector
2U
<8,540
8,540
-‐
9,940
9,940
-‐
11,340
11,340
-‐
12,740
12,740
-‐
14,000
>14,000
Modified
Secondary
2D
<11,590
11,590
-‐
13,490
13,490
-‐
15,390
15,390
-‐
17,290
17,290
-‐
19,000
>19,000
Secondary
4U
<17,080
17,080
-‐
19,880
19,880
-‐
22,680
22,680
-‐
25,480
25,480
-‐
28,000
>28,000
Primary
4D
<25,560
25,560
-‐
29,800
29,800
-‐
34,080
34,080
-‐
38,340
38,340
-‐
42,600
>42,600
Major
6D
<36,600
36,600
-‐
42,700
42,700
-‐
48,800
48,000
-‐
54,900
54,900
-‐
61,000
>61,000
Augmented
Major
8D
<45,600
45,600
-‐
53,200
53,200
-‐
60,800
60,800
-‐
68,400
68,400
-‐
76,000
>76,000
Source:
City
of
La
Quinta
Engineering
Bulletin
#06-‐13
(June
14,
2012).
Will
be
applied
to
both
tables.
Acceptable
Levels-‐of-‐Service
(LOS)
As
directed
by
this
General
Plan,
City
of
La
Quinta
Engineering
Bulletin
#06-‐13,
mandates
that
the
City
strive
to
maintain
the
minimum
level
of
service
for
its
intersections
at
not
worse
than
LOS
D.
At
intersections
along
roadways
contained
in
the
Riverside
County
Congestion
Management
Program
(CMP)
System
of
Highways
and
Roadways,
the
minimum
level
of
service
required
is
to
be
not
worse
than
LOS
E.
Within
the
City
of
La
Quinta,
Highway
111
is
designated
as
a
CMP
facility.
CIRCULATION
II-‐45
Therefore,
LOS
E
operations
are
considered
acceptable
at
intersections
along
Highway
111.
The
County
of
Riverside
Measure
A
funding
guidelines
do
not
specify
a
minimum
level
of
service.
The
Circulation
Element
establishes
and
directs
actions
to
maintain
acceptable
levels
of
service
on
all
community
roadways.
The
City
traffic
engineers
and
transportation
planners
strive
to
provide
optimum
roadway
operating
conditions
while
controlling
the
costs
of
building
and
maintaining
infrastructure
to
assure
those
conditions.
As
traffic
volumes
on
local
and
Valley
roadways
have
increased,
even
LOS
D
has
become
a
standard
that
is
progressively
more
difficult
and
costly
to
achieve.
Even
with
planned
roadway
improvements
set
forth
in
the
Circulation
Element
and
the
General
Plan
EIR
and
associated
traffic
study,
buildout
of
the
City
General
Plan
may
not
result
in
all
intersections
operating
at
LOS
D.
Exceedances
of
the
City's
LOS
D
goal
are
only
acceptable
where
maximum
feasible
intersection
improvements
have
been
implemented.
As
discussed
below,
special
improvements
and
management
programs
and
strategies,
including
the
implementation
of
Complete
Streets,
will
be
necessary
to
assure
that
future
operation
of
City
roads
and
intersections
does
not
exceed
LOS
D.
Average
Daily
Traffic
Volumes
or
Vehicles
Per
Day
The
total
number
of
vehicles
that
travel
a
defined
segment
of
roadway
over
a
twenty-‐four
hour
period
are
quantified
as
Average
Daily
Trips
(ADT)
or
Vehicles
Per
Day
(VPD).
ADT
is
a
useful
“benchmark”
number
for
determining
various
appropriate
roadway
configurations
and
design
aspects.
The
peak
hour
information,
which
is
the
highest
volume
of
traffic
to
pass
over
a
segment
of
roadway
during
an
hour
period,
is
also
a
useful
means
of
determining
a
roadway's
capacity
and,
indirectly,
intersection
levels
of
service.
Tables
and
exhibits
below
provide
the
average
daily
volumes
for
the
current
(2010)
period
for
the
General
Plan
designated
roadways.
CIRCULATION
II-‐48
The
La
Quinta
Traffic
Model
City
traffic
is
a
consequence
of
every
household,
every
business,
every
public
and
quasi-‐public
institution,
every
service
and
all
the
activities
associated
with
each.
The
traffic
model
uses
standard
references,
a
variety
of
socio-‐economic
data
set
forth
in
the
RivTAM
model
and
the
various
land
use
assignments
made
to
lands
within
the
City
and
its
SOI.
Modern
roadway
networks
are
designed
and
analyzed
using
sophisticated
computer
models
that
provide
a
very
mechanical
view
of
what
in
truth
is
a
very
diverse,
complex
and
highly
variable
system.
Data
is
infrequently
and
narrowly
collected
along
major
roadway
segments
and
at
important
intersections.
These
data
are
supplemented
by
data
collected
for
the
General
Plan
update.
Therefore,
traffic
modeling
is
a
useful
tool
for
predicting
future
traffic
volumes,
but
there
is
substantial
potential
to
affect
future
trip
reduction
and
enhanced
mobility
beyond
the
predictions
of
the
traffic
model.
The
La
Quinta
traffic
model
provides
a
forecast
that
incorporates
Geographic
Information
System
(GIS)
mapping,
a
variety
of
socio-‐
economic
data
for
the
La
Quinta
planning
area
and
the
region,
enhanced
roadway
network
editing
and
travel
demand
modeling
capabilities
based
on
land
use
and
other
data.
In
addition
to
traffic
forecasting,
the
La
Quinta
traffic
model
can
be
applied
to
other
land
use
plans,
including
specific
plans
and
development
plan
analyses.
Specifically,
the
La
Quinta
traffic
model
consists
of
a
traditional
four
step
modeling
process
including
(1)
trip
generation,
(2)
trip
distribution,
(3)
mode
split
(choice),
and
(4)
traffic
assignment.
To
work
from
a
more
refined
level,
the
traffic
modeling
process
begins
with
defining
the
traffic
analysis
zones
(TAZ)
and
the
roadway
network,
establishing
efficient/logical
traffic
routes,
collecting
land
use
and
socio-‐economic
data
on
each
TAZ,
calculating
trip
generation
in
each
TAZ,
distributing
traffic
and
its
assignment
to
individual
road
segments.
The
regional
traffic
model
divides
the
General
Plan
planning
area
into
150
TAZs
following
CVATS
zone
boundaries,
General
Plan
land
use
boundaries,
street
centerlines
and
other
GIS
data,
thereby
greatly
increasing
the
detail
of
the
analysis.
CIRCULATION
II-‐49
The
model
then
loads
the
traffic
onto
the
roadway
network,
and
approximates
how
actual
traffic
enters
and
utilizes
the
local
roadway
system.
The
model
also
considers
a
variety
of
roadway
characteristics,
including
the
type
of
roadway,
free-‐flow
speeds,
and
hourly
travel
per
lane.
The
model
distributes
the
projected
volume
of
traffic
that
will
occur
due
to
the
buildout
of
the
General
Plan
land
use
plan
and
factors
growth
in
other
areas
of
the
Valley.
From
this
information
the
design
requirements
to
maintain
acceptable
traffic
flows
are
determined.
Two
model
scenarios
were
included
in
the
La
Quinta
Model,
namely
the
base
year
2009
and
the
forecast
year
2035.
The
structure
of
the
La
Quinta
Model
is
a
highly
detailed,
fine-‐grained
level
of
analysis
that
has
been
developed
in
a
manner
consistent
with
the
Riverside
County
Transportation
Analysis
Model
(RivTAM),
which
is
also
the
basis
for
regional
transportation
planning
coordinated
by
CVAG.
A
detailed
description
of
the
La
Quinta
Model
is
provided
in
the
General
Plan
EIR.
Trip
Generation
Trip
generation
provides
the
raw
material
for
traffic
modeling.
Vehicle
trips
generated
within
each
TAZ
of
the
modeling
area
are
based
on
land
use
data
as
designated
by
existing
land
uses
and
the
General
Plan
Land
Use
Element.
The
total
number
of
vehicle
trips
produced
in
or
attracted
to
a
geographic
area
is
directly
related
to
the
land
use
and
demographic
variables
found
in
each
TAZ.
The
model
estimates
the
number
of
peak
season
vehicle
trips
that
will
be
produced
on
an
average
weekday
for
each
zone.
Trip
Distribution
and
Traffic
Assignment
Trip
distribution
and
assignment
involves
providing
a
general
directional
distribution
of
trips
and
then
assigning
the
trips
to
specific
streets.
Typically,
this
distribution
of
trips
is
based
on
the
formula
that
the
distribution
of
trips
is
proportional
to
the
“attractiveness”
of
the
land
use
and
the
distance
(or
travel
time)
from
the
point
of
trip
production.
The
end
result
forecasts
of
daily
traffic
volumes
yield
the
aggregate
assignment
of
trips
to
roadways
between
and
connecting
TAZs
throughout
the
City.
Transportation
System
Management
An
essential
part
of
the
Circulation
Element
and
its
supporting
technical
studies
is
Transportation
System
Management
(TSM).
According
to
the
Federal
Highway
Administration,
5
percent
of
congestion
is
due
to
poorly
timed
traffic
signals.
Optimizing
signals
involves
only
moderate
capital
costs
but
takes
dedication
of
staff
time
to
analyze
traffic
patterns
and
develop
an
optimal
timing
scheme.
The
CIRCULATION
II-‐50
primary
goal
of
TSM
is
to
improve
the
efficiency
of
the
existing
transportation
system
by
better
use
of
these
facilities
and
by
shifting
user
demand.
The
Transportation
Systems
Management
process
identifies
improvements
that
enhance
the
operational
capacity
of
the
existing
system.
Better
managing
and
operating
of
existing
transportation
facilities
will
realize
improved
traffic
flow,
improved
air
quality,
and
more
efficient
movement
of
vehicles
and
goods.
TSM
strategies
are
low-‐cost
but
effective.
They
include
intersection
and
signal
improvements,
vehicle
detector
upgrades,
optimized
signal
timing,
systems
monitoring
and
responsive
management,
facilitating
turning
and
slip
lanes,
restriping
for
alternative
modes
and
traffic
calming,
and
effective
signage
and
lighting.
TSM
includes
the
ability
to
monitor,
in
real
time,
the
traffic
and
travel
conditions
on
major
roadways
and
to
share
that
information
with
drivers
and
system
managers
to
improve
the
operation
of
the
roadway
system.
TSM
strategies,
either
individually
or
as
a
package
of
supportive
programs,
attempt
to
reduce
existing
traffic
congestion,
and
increase
the
person-‐carrying
capacity
of
the
transportation
system.
Other
benefits
of
TSM
include
improved
air
quality,
conservation
of
energy
resources,
reduction
of
new
transportation
and
parking
facility
needs,
and
prolonged
life
of
existing
transportation
infrastructure.
TSM
components
enhance
system
accessibility
and
safety.
As
a
general
rule,
the
development
and
implementation
of
TSM
strategies
cost
less
than
traditional
capital
projects.
To
achieve
the
highest
degree
of
TSM
success
possible,
the
City’s
planning
and
implementation
of
TSM
should
be
coordinated
with
adjoining
cities,
the
County,
CVAG
and
SCAG.
SunLine
Transit
Agency,
developers,
and
employers
should
also
be
consulted
on
an
on-‐going
basis.
TSM
should
correlate
land
use
and
circulation
elements
to
assure
that
planned
street
and
highway
capacities
will
adequately
accommodate
traffic
generated
by
planned
land
uses.
TSM
programs
that
promote
flexible
hours
at
places
of
employment
may
improve
the
levels
of
service
of
area
streets
and
highways
by
reducing
peak
hour
flows.
The
City’s
Livable
Community,
Air
Quality
and
Natural
Resources
Elements
Roadway Volume/Capacity Relationship
2000
1600
1200
800
400
60 45 30 50% 40% Multi- mph mph mph Green Green Phase
2 2 4
Ho
u
r
l
y
V
o
l
u
m
e
s
P
e
r
L
a
n
e
CIRCULATION
II-‐51
include
clean
air
and
energy
conservation
policies,
which
may
be
implemented
through
TSM
programs
to
reduce
and
shorten
motor
vehicle
trips,
broaden
use
of
alternative
travel
modes,
and
thereby
reduce
air
pollution,
GHG
emissions
and
energy
use.
California
Complete
Streets
Act
(AB
1358)
Assembly
Bill
1358
was
signed
into
law
in
2008
and
cites
as
its
purpose:
“In
order
to
fulfill
the
commitment
to
reduce
greenhouse
gas
emissions,
make
the
most
efficient
use
of
urban
land
and
transportation
infrastructure,
and
improve
public
health
by
encouraging
physical
activity,
transportation
planners
must
find
innovative
ways
to
reduce
vehicle
miles
traveled
(VMT)
and
to
shift
from
short
trips
in
the
automobile
to
biking,
walking
and
use
of
public
transit.”
Resulting
Government
Code
Section
65302(b)(All-‐2)(A)
and
(B)
requires
jurisdictions
to
substantially
revise
their
Circulation
Element
so
as
to
assure
a
balanced,
multimodal
transportation
network
that
meets
the
needs
of
safe
and
convenient
travel
in
a
manner
that
is
suitable
to
the
rural,
suburban,
or
urban
context
of
the
General
Plan,
all
of
which
apply
to
the
La
Quinta
planning
area.
Ensuring
that
roads
and
other
facilities
provide
safe
mobility
for
all
travelers,
not
just
motor
vehicles,
is
at
the
heart
of
complete
streets.
The
act
also
states
that
the
Circulation
Element
addresses
a:
“plan
for
a
balanced,
multimodal
transportation
network
that
meets
the
needs
of
all
users
of
streets,
roads,
and
highways,
defined
to
include
motorists,
pedestrians,
bicyclists,
children,
persons
with
disabilities,
seniors,
movers
of
commercial
goods,
and
users
of
public
transportation,
in
a
manner
that
is
suitable
to
the
rural,
suburban,
or
urban
context
of
the
general
plan”.
Designing
Complete
Streets
Typical
elements
that
make
up
a
complete
street
include
sidewalks,
bicycle
lanes
(or
wide,
paved
shoulders),
shared-‐use
paths,
designated
bus
lanes,
safe
and
accessible
transit
stops,
and
frequent
and
safe
crossings
for
pedestrians,
including
median
islands,
accessible
pedestrian
signals,
and
curb
extensions.
A
design
for
a
complete
street
in
a
rural
area,
such
as
Vista
Santa
Rosa,
may
look
quite
different
from
one
in
an
urban
or
suburban
area.
A
complete
street
in
a
rural
area
may
provide
wider
shoulders
or
a
separate
multiuse
path
instead
of
sidewalks,
while
a
complete
street
in
a
more
urban/suburban
area
such
CIRCULATION
II-‐52
as
the
Highway
111
corridor
may
be
customized
to
accommodate
more
destination-‐oriented
needs
and
expectations
of
urban
travelers.
Therefore,
rural
areas
of
the
City
and
Sphere
may
require
wide
shoulders
to
accommodate
pedestrian,
bicycle,
or
equestrian
travel.
Within
the
City’s
suburban
or
urban
context,
street
design
should
accommodate
pedestrian
and
bicycle
travel
with
the
inclusion
of
sidewalks
and
bicycle
lanes,
along
with
controlled
street
crossings.
Where
there
are
greater
distances
between
destinations,
benches,
covered
resting
areas,
and
other
facilities
should
be
provided
that
allow
for
people
to
successfully
walk
or
ride
a
bicycle
to
frequently
visited
destinations.
Adapting
Existing
Roads
for
Complete
Streets
The
current
transportation
network
has
its
origins
in
the
last
century.
Over
time,
the
roadway
network
has
evolved
in
a
manner
largely
incremental
with
urban
development.
Agricultural
facilities
(especially
canals),
inconsistent
right-‐of-‐way
acquisition
and
varying
roadway
standards
have
resulted
in
areas
with
sometimes
substantial
variability
in
existing
and
potential
future
roadway
improvements.
Therefore,
the
melding
of
existing
improvements,
constraints
and
opportunities,
and
the
directives
of
the
Circulation
Element
require
that
the
City
have
some
flexibility
in
solving
special
conditions
on
a
case-‐by-‐case
basis.
It
is
also
important
that
the
City
further
consider
appropriate
policies,
standards,
implementation
measures
and
plans
specifically
for
those
areas.
The
Circulation
Element
allows
for
the
modifying
of
roadway
and
other
transportation
plans,
as
needed,
and
in
most
cases
without
the
need
for
a
General
Plan
Amendment.
This
allows
the
City
the
flexibility
of
adaptive
management,
to
blend
and
harmonize
various
nuances
in
design
and
to
assure
a
responsive
and
well-‐balanced
multimodal
transportation
network.
When
considering
the
needs
of
all
users,
needs
of
the
community,
traffic
demand,
impacts
on
alternate
routes,
impacts
on
safety,
funding
feasibility,
and
maintenance
feasibility,
relevant
laws
and
regulations
should
be
reviewed
and
mandates
addressed.
Funding
Complete
Streets
Federal
transportation
program
and
funding
focus
is
now
on
economic
competitiveness,
livability,
state
of
repair,
and
environmental
benefits.
The
federal
government,
including
the
FHWA
and
EPA,
is
expected
to
continue
to
be
a
source
of
funding
for
a
Complete
Streets
program.
Other
sources
are
expected
to
include
individual
new
projects’
street
improvements
in
the
future,
state
funds,
local
Measure
A
funds,
Developer
Impact
Fees,
bonding
and
others.
CIRCULATION
II-‐53
Roundabouts
and
Other
Innovative
Designs
Roundabouts
have
been
in
use
for
a
long
time
and
have
evolved
into
smoother
flowing,
high
capacity
roadway
systems.
Highways
and
rail
lines
have
been
consolidated,
multi-‐modal
paths
have
been
developed
along
stormwater
channels
and
areas
of
public
open
space,
and
networks
of
community
bike
paths
have
been
woven
together
to
provide
area-‐
wide
access.
Diversifying
the
La
Quinta
transportation
network
and
opportunities
will
enhance
mobility
and
quality
of
life
for
residents
and
visitors.
Roundabouts
Roundabouts
(or
rotaries,
as
they
are
sometimes
called)
historically
were
to
be
found
largely
in
Europe,
especially
France
and
England.
In
the
past
two
decades
roundabouts
have
made
significant
in-‐roads
into
roadway
networks
in
the
United
States.
The
City
is
host
to
roundabouts
at
the
intersection
of
Jefferson
Street
and
Avenue
52
and
elsewhere,
and
while
this
local
experiment
in
innovative
intersection
design
has
received
mixed
reviews,
the
roundabout
has
real
advantages
that
may
be
applicable
to
other
City
intersections.
Roundabout
design
is
driven
by
the
particulars
of
driving
rules
in
the
US,
including
driving
on
the
right
side
of
the
street.
Therefore,
vehicles
traveling
on
the
modern
roundabout
in
this
country
do
so
in
a
counterclockwise
direction
and
usually
around
a
raised
center
island.
Traffic
entering
the
roundabout
yields
to
traffic
already
circulating
within
it
and
may
be
directed
to
an
inside
or
outside
lane
depending
on
how
far
around
one
needs
to
travel
before
exiting
the
roundabout.
While
roundabout
speeds
are
relatively
low
(15
to
20
mph),
traffic
never
stops,
so
there
is
a
lot
of
capacity
in
this
type
of
intersection
design
if
properly
utilized.
Another
advantage
of
roundabouts
is
the
general
avoidance
of
having
to
stop
traffic
for
other
vehicular
traffic.
According
to
the
Federal
Highway
Administration,
roundabouts
are
generally
safer
than
signalized
intersections
for
several
reasons.
Traffic
in
modern
roundabouts
travel
at
lower
speeds
when
entering
and
exiting.
They
have
fewer
conflicting
points
than
do
conventional
intersections,
and
right-‐angle
and
head-‐on
crashes
are
eliminated.
A
CIRCULATION
II-‐54
four-‐leg
(one
feeder
lane
in
each
direction)
roundabout
has
about
75%
fewer
conflict
points
compared
to
STOP-‐controlled
intersections.
Roundabouts
can
also
be
used
as
a
traffic-‐calming
device
in
areas
with
low
vehicle
volumes
and
higher
numbers
of
pedestrians
and
bikers,
where
they
may
in
some
cases
also
have
four-‐way
stop
controls.
Generally,
pedestrian
and
bicyclist
safety
is
increased
in
a
roundabout;
for
instance,
pedestrians
only
need
to
look
in
one
direction
at
a
time
at
each
approach.
While
the
cost
of
constructing
a
roundabout
will
typically
exceed
that
for
a
signalized
intersection,
the
annual
savings
in
electricity
and
operations
and
maintenance
results
in
a
payback
within
five
to
seven
years.
Additional
long-‐term
savings
is
realized
as
long
as
the
roundabout
is
in
service.
Roundabouts
also
contribute
to
a
decrease
in
pollutant
emissions,
including
greenhouse
gases,
as
a
result
of
little
or
now
stop
and
go
traffic,
efficient
operating
speeds
and
shortened
travel
time.
Roundabouts
can
directly
contribute
to
GHG
reductions
through
improved
operational
efficiencies.
Multi-‐Use
Paths
Multi-‐Use
paths
are
a
system
of
routes
that
can
provide
a
convenient
connection
between
neighborhoods,
schools,
parks,
shopping,
restaurants,
dog
parks
and
other
activity
centers.
These
trails
are
designed
to
support
a
good
mix
of
cyclists,
walkers,
joggers
and
skaters.
Portions
of
these
trails
may
also
serve
equestrian
users.
Multi-‐use
pathways
provide
opportunities
for
economic
benefit
and
growth
by
providing
pedestrian
and
bicycle
access
to
restaurants
and
other
businesses,
without
the
need
for
additional
parking
and
traffic
congestion.
In
addition,
these
paths
increase
property
values
and
tourism
and
recreation-‐related
spending
on
items
such
as
bicycles,
in-‐
line
skates
and
lodging.
Property
values
are
also
positively
affected
in
communities
with
a
well-‐developed
multi-‐use
path
network
enhances
health
and
recreation
benefits
-‐-‐
according
to
a
2000
National
Association
of
Home
Builders
survey
of
what
active
adults
and
older
seniors
want
in
their
communities,
walking
and
jogging
paths
ranked
#1.
The
City
has
had
ambitious
plans
for
a
network
of
multi-‐use
paths
that
would
connect
residences,
commercial
services
and
open
space
areas.
The
plans
for
multi-‐use
paths
have
been
more
finely
tailored
to
enhance
alternative
access
to
the
City’s
activity
centers.
CIRCULATION
II-‐55
All-‐Weather
Access
Major
drainages
that
affect
roadway
access
both
within
the
City
and
the
planning
area
include
the
Whitewater
River
and
the
La
Quinta
Evacuation
Channel.
The
Whitewater
River
is
the
principal
drainage
affecting
all-‐
weather
access
in
the
City.
Current
all-‐weather
crossings
exist
on
Washington
Street,
Eisenhower
Drive,
Adams
Street
and
Jefferson
Street.
Dune
Palms
Drive
is
currently
a
low-‐flow
crossing.
Future
all-‐
weather
crossings
are
also
planned
for
the
southern
extensions
of
Jefferson
Street
and
Madison
Street.
All-‐weather
access
and
roadway
capacity
are
also
affected
by
stormwater
runoff,
which
is
frequently
conveyed
by
local
streets
into
dedicated
surface
and
sub-‐surface
stormwater
facilities.
Areas
of
inadequate
drainage
can
result
in
on-‐road
ponding,
unsafe
conditions,
and
reduced
accessibility
and
capacity.
Roadway
Capacity
Preservation
The
construction
and
maintenance
of
roads
is
one
of
the
most
expensive
public
responsibilities.
Rights-‐of-‐way
for
roads
also
create
a
substantial
demand
on
limited
land
and
can
have
adverse,
as
well
as
,
impacts
on
adjoining
property.
Therefore,
roadway
design,
operation
and
maintenance
must
be
as
cost-‐effective
as
possible.
Along
major
arterial
roadways,
such
as
Highway
111,
Washington
Street,
Fred
Waring
Drive,
Miles
Avenue,
Jefferson
Street,
Madison
Street,
Monroe
Street
and
other
major
roadways,
access
from
adjoining
properties
should
be
controlled
and
limited.
In
more
densely
developed
areas,
limited
access
and
median
islands
will
also
improve
roadway
operation
for
vehicles
and
pedestrians.
Securing
Right
of
Way
The
City
has
generally
been
able
to
secure
right-‐of-‐way
adequate
to
provide
full-‐width
segment
roadway
improvements,
and
has
also
been
able
to
secure
additional
right-‐of-‐way
along
major
arterials
designated
as
Image
Corridors,
described
below.
The
need
for
expanded
intersection
improvements
throughout
the
City
in
the
future,
may
in
some
instances
require
additional
right-‐of-‐way
be
secured
to
provide
for
additional
through
and
turning
lanes.
The
greatest
demand
for
additional
right-‐of-‐way
may
be
at
future
critical
intersections,
where
CIRCULATION
II-‐56
dual
left
turn
lanes
and
dedicated
right
turn
lanes
would
be
needed.
Please
see
the
General
Plan
Program
EIR
for
critical
intersection
design
standards
and
technical
information.
Pedestrian
and
Other
Non-‐Motorized
Users
Pedestrian
and
other
non-‐motor
circulation
is
encouraged
in
the
City
wherever
possible.
The
provision
of
sidewalks,
bike
lanes
and
off-‐street
paths
is
especially
important
along
major
roadways
in
the
community.
While
sidewalks
have
been
constructed
in
various
parts
of
the
City,
in
some
areas
their
design
and
construction
has
been
inconsistent,
disjointed
and
unconnected.
In
future
development,
pedestrian
safety
and
accommodation
should
be
given
emphasis
equal
to
that
currently
given
to
automobile
access.
Parking
and
Access
Facilities
In
addition
to
issues
associated
with
roadway
capacity
along
segments
and
at
intersections,
the
City’s
roadway
network
can
also
be
affected
by
the
design
and
location
of
access
drives
and
on-‐site
parking
facilities.
The
newer
commercial
developments
in
the
City
provide
safe
and
efficient
access
and
adequate
parking
to
serve
their
customers.
Some
older
non-‐residential
developments,
particularly
in
the
Village
area,
are
limited
in
their
ability
to
provide
sufficient
off-‐street
parking.
Conversely,
large
commercial
developments
on
Highway
111
have
in
some
cases
been
designed
to
accommodate
parking
needs
during
the
peak
season,
and
have
resulted
in
large
expanses
of
parking
which
go
largely
unutilized
during
the
rest
of
the
year.
It
is
essential
that
new
development,
as
well
as
projects
undergoing
redevelopment,
be
required
to
provide
on-‐site
parking
adequate
to
meet
the
parking
demand
generated,
without
providing
excessive
parking
and
associated
expanses
of
asphalt.
Parking
lot
ingress
and
egress
must
also
be
thoughtfully
controlled
and
consolidation
encouraged
to
minimize
disruption
to
traffic
flow
and
facilitate
the
preservation
of
capacity,
while
assuring
safety.
Enhanced
access
for
pedestrians
and
bicyclists
should
also
be
addressed
within
and
along
streets
and
sidewalks
surrounding
developments.
Every
opportunity
should
be
taken
to
encourage
integrated,
shared
and
reciprocal
parking
design
and
management
as
a
means
of
better
matching
parking
availability
with
varying
parking
demand
distributed
during
the
day.
CIRCULATION
II-‐57
City
Image
Corridors
The
scenic
resources
that
can
be
viewed
from
the
City’s
public
rights-‐
of-‐way
provide
some
of
the
most
beautiful
views
in
the
Coachella
Valley
and
add
significantly
to
the
quality
of
life
the
community
has
to
offer.
The
La
Quinta
viewsheds
are
part
of
what
gives
the
City
its
sense
of
place,
which
is
both
close
and
intimate,
and
grand
and
panoramic.
It
is
also
important
to
note
that
the
City’s
scenic
resources
are
varied
and
diverse,
ranging
from
the
intimate
coves
nestled
in
the
foothills,
to
the
expansive
views
of
the
Santa
Rosa
Mountains.
These
resources
also
include
the
varied
streetscapes
and
the
rural
areas
of
the
City
and
its
Sphere.
Protection
of
these
resources
is
important
to
preserving
the
City’s
unique
quality
of
life.
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.
Enhanced
parkways
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.
Recognizing
that
these
Image
Corridors
create
the
sense
of
place
in
La
Quinta,
their
protection
must
always
be
in
the
forefront
of
community
and
transportation
design.
The
City
has
and
shall
continue
to
work
to
protect
and
preserve
these
important
community
assets
that
are
a
major
draw
to
visitors
and
new
residents
to
the
City.
Important
image
corridors,
as
well
as
locations
where
community
gateway
treatments
enhance
the
local
and
city-‐wide
sense
of
place,
are
mapped
on
Exhibit
II-‐4.
CIRCULATION
II-‐59
Special
Planning
Areas
On
an
on-‐going
basis,
the
City
continues
to
assess
the
transportation
needs
of
certain
areas
of
the
community,
including
the
Highway
111
corridor
and
the
Village
area.
Also
important
are
lands
in
the
southeast
quadrant
of
the
planning
area,
where
thoughtful
and
multi-‐
jurisdictional
planning
is
essential
to
its
efficient
development.
An
area-‐
wide
goal
for
this
and
other
relatively
undeveloped
portions
of
the
planning
area
should
be
to
optimize
land
use,
assure
an
adequate,
responsive
and
forward-‐looking
transportation
system,
and
optimize
the
use
of
multi-‐modal
and
mass
transit
facilities.
Transportation
concepts
for
these
areas
are
further
discussed
below.
Highway
111
Corridor
Historically,
Highway
111
dates
back
to
the
Native
American
Cocomaricopa
Trail
and
later
the
Bradshaw
Trail,
has
long
been
an
important
intra-‐regional
transportation
link.
The
highway
is
listed
as
a
Congestion
Management
Program
roadway,
as
established
by
the
Riverside
County
Congestion
Management
Program
(CMP).
Today,
the
segment
of
the
Highway
111
corridor
in
La
Quinta
is
a
typical
extended
retail
corridor
providing
community
and
neighborhood
commercial
services,
auto
sales,
and
large
and
small
commercial
centers
anchored
by
big
box
retailers.
Along
the
corridor,
residential
development
is
generally
located
north
of
the
Whitewater
River
and
south
of
Avenue
47
and
Auto
Center
Drive
on
the
west,
and
south
of
the
stormwater
evacuation
channel
on
the
east.
Most
of
the
housing
north
and
south
of
Highway
111
is
single
family.
The
La
Quinta
High
School’s
location
in
this
area
also
provides
another
destination
and
source
of
traffic.
Long-‐term
movement
along
Highway
111
and
the
adjoining
arterial
roadways
of
Washington
Street,
Adams
Street,
Dune
Palms
Road
and
Jefferson
Street
is
constrained
by
limitations
of
right-‐of-‐way
and
surrounding
uses.
Therefore,
every
effort
must
be
made
to
gain
as
much
efficiency
as
possible
along
Highway
111
to
assure
that
this
vital
link
continues
to
operate
at
acceptable
levels
of
service.
Long-‐term
accessibility
to
local
businesses
is
essential
if
they
are
to
thrive.
Transportation
Centers
Further
consideration
should
be
given
to
improvements
on
Highway
111
and
adjoining
corridors
that
shift
travel
from
private
cars
and
trucks
to
alternative
modes,
including
public
transit,
golf
carts,
ride-‐sharing,
car-‐
sharing,
bicycling,
bicycle-‐sharing,
and
walking.
The
City
should
consider
the
establishment
of
transportation
centers
that
are
multi-‐
modal
and
allow
transportation
modes
to
intersect.
They
should
be
conveniently
sited,
and
in
consideration
of
the
surrounding
high
CIRCULATION
II-‐60
capacity
roadways,
major
pedestrian
generators
and
intersecting
transit
routes
the
following
prospective
locations
are
recommended
for
consideration:
Washington
Street/Fred
Waring
Drive/Via
Sevilla
Miles
Avenue
/Adams
Street
Adams
Street/Hwy
111/Avenue
47
Avenue
47/Caleo
Bay
Drive
Washington
Street/Calle
Tampico
Eisenhower
Drive/Avenida
Montezuma
The
City
shall
also
continue
to
explore
expanding
SunLine
bus
routes
and
services,
including
Bus
Rapid
Transit
(BRT)
along
Highway
111
and
Harrison
Avenue.
Sunline
services
are
further
discussed
below
under
the
heading
Sunline
and
Public
Transportation.
Additional
accessibility
will
also
be
created
by
expanding
the
City
golf
cart/Neighborhood
Electric
Vehicle
(NEV)
and
bicycle
routes
to
connect
residential
and
activity
centers.
Village
at
La
Quinta
The
Village
area
of
La
Quinta
is
one
of
the
oldest
parts
of
the
community,
with
homes
dating
back
to
the
1920s.
Recent
development
has
invigorated
the
“village”
feel
and
strengthened
the
character
of
the
neighborhood.
The
village
environment
is
also
supported
by
the
civic
center
facilities
(City
Hall,
Senior
Center,
Library)
on
the
east,
and
parklands
(La
Quinta
Community
Park)
on
the
west.
The
area
is
primarily
served
by
Calle
Tampico,
Avenue
52,
Washington
Street,
and
Eisenhower
Drive.
The
Village
is
located
at
the
lower
portion
of
the
La
Quinta
Cove,
and
the
area
must
accommodate
a
high
volume
and
wide
array
of
traffic.
The
area
is
also
a
venue
for
special
events,
including
the
La
Quinta
Arts
Festival.
These
events
can
rapidly
consume
parking
and
congest
the
streets
with
tourists
unfamiliar
with
the
area.
A
variety
of
strategic
plans
should
be
developed
to
enhance
Village
access
via
bike
and
golf
cart/NEV,
as
well
as
by
pedestrians
living
in
the
area.
The
Village
area
is
especially
well
suited
to
serve
those
wanting
pedestrian
and
multi-‐
modal
access,
having
a
wide
mix
of
residential
opportunities,
hotels,
restaurants,
galleries
and
CIRCULATION
II-‐61
other
commercial
services
for
the
neighborhood
and
visitors.
City
parks
and
open
space
are
also
a
major
attraction
in
the
village
area.
Its
proximity
to
major
resorts,
including
the
La
Quinta
Hotel
and
Silver
Rock
Resort,
adds
to
the
synergistic
mix
of
land
uses
in
this
area,
as
does
its
accessibility
by
walking,
bicycling,
and
golf
cart/NEV.
Land
uses
and
planning
that
emphasize
the
pedestrian
scale
of
the
Village
area
are
further
discussed
in
the
Land
Use
Element.
Truck
Routes
The
City
of
La
Quinta
and
its
Sphere
host
numerous
major
roadways
that
provide
intercity
connectivity,
as
well
as
access
to
major
developments
in
the
community.
The
City
has
identified
comprehensive
truck
routes
that
facilitate
deliveries
of
goods,
as
well
as
construction
materials
and
other
heavy
loads.
Primary
truck
traffic
occurs
on
Highway
111
and
Washington
Street,
but
there
are
numerous
other
roadways
where
truck
access
is
also
important.
City
truck
routes,
including
those
with
weight
restrictions,
are
shown
on
Exhibit
II-‐5.
ALTERNATIVE
TRANSPORTATION
SYSTEM
The
General
Plan
recognizes
the
need
to
optimize
pedestrian,
bicycle,
golf
carts
and
Neighborhood
Electric
Vehicles
(NEVs)
and
other
transportation
vehicles
throughout
the
planning
area.
Although
no
explicit
provision
has
been
made
for
equestrian
riders,
the
standards
to
be
applied
to
the
development
of
multi-‐use
paths,
as
discussed
below,
will
accommodate
equestrian
use.
As
discussed
throughout
the
General
Plan,
land
use
planning
is
geared
to
achieve
a
synergy
that
optimizes
golf
cart/NEV
and
other
non-‐
vehicular
access
to
commercial
services,
schools,
daycare,
employment
centers,
and
parks,
community
recreation
facilities
and
open
space
areas.
Bike
paths
and
multi-‐use
path
systems
are
also
an
increasingly
important
community
asset
to
homebuyers,
including
families
and
retirees.
Attractive
multi-‐use
paths
are
also
an
important
part
of
the
streetscape
and
its
function
as
a
key
aesthetic
feature
of
the
community,
providing
opportunities
for
biking,
roller-‐blading
and
other
recreational
activities.
CIRCULATION
II-‐63
Bike
Lanes
and
Facilities
Bicycle-‐ways,
bike
lanes
and
other
bike
routes
not
only
provide
a
quick
and
convenient
alternate
form
of
transportation,
they
also
reduce
air
and
noise
pollution
attributed
to
motor
vehicle
use
and
encourage
healthy
living.
An
extensive
and
safe
bikeway
system
should
be
considered
an
integral
part
of
any
community
circulation
system,
and
especially
so
for
a
resort
residential
community
where
such
activities
are
an
integral
part
of
the
resort
and
vacation
experience.
Incentives
for
bicycle
use,
such
as
a
reduction
in
required
parking
spaces
in
exchange
for
the
placement
of
bicycle
racks,
are
becoming
more
common,
as
traffic
and
pollution
levels
continue
to
increase,
and
shall
be
an
integral
part
of
the
General
Plan
and
development-‐specific
approvals.
Currently,
the
City
has
a
growing
system
of
sidewalks,
bicycle
lanes
and
multi-‐use
paths.
Carefully
thought
out
and
planned
expansion
of
these
alternative
transportation
corridors
serving
pedestrians
and
bicyclers
will
enhance
and
give
greater
opportunity
to
the
use
of
various
alternative
modes
of
transportation.
Bike
routes
should
be
clearly
marked
and
striped
and
should
be
designed
as
one-‐way
bike
routes
to
flow
in
the
same
direction
as
the
adjacent
automobile
traffic.
Also
please
see
the
Parks,
Recreation
and
Trails
Element.
CIRCULATION
II-‐65
Golf
Cart/NEV
Route
System
As
part
of
the
overall
evaluation
and
planning
of
the
City
circulation
system,
the
General
Plan
identifies
pathways
along
existing
and
future
roadways
connecting
residential,
recreational,
commercial
and
other
community
amenities.
As
with
on-‐street
bike
paths,
golf
cart/NEV
path
safety
is
of
the
utmost
importance.
Expanded
golf
cart
and
NEV
usage
can
provide
an
enjoyable,
convenient,
economical
and
safe
alternative
to
conventional
automobile
use.
Golf
carts
and
NEVs
that
share
the
road
with
automobiles
have
little
effect
on
traffic
speeds
and
may,
in
fact,
serve
to
calm
traffic.
Bicyclists
sharing
the
on-‐pavement
path
with
golf
carts
and
NEVs
need
to
be
made
aware
of
their
presence
to
optimize
their
compatibility.
Golf
cart
registration
is
not
required
if
operated
on
a
roadway
within
one
mile
of
a
golf
course,
and
designated
for
such
use
by
ordinance
or
resolution.
Golf
carts
may
not
be
operated
on
roads
with
speed
zones
above
25
mph
except
by
ordinance
or
resolution
by
a
local
authority,
and
must
meet
equipment
Requirements
for
On-‐Road
Use
as
specified
in
CVC
§24001.5.
State
law
requires
that
golf
carts
for
street
use
other
than
as
described
above
be
licensed.
They
are
limited
to
routes
posted
at
35
mph
or
slower,
although
golf
carts
may
be
permitted
on
higher
speed
roadways
with
approval
of
appropriate
engineering
analysis.
NEVs
operate
at
top
speeds
of
20
to
25
MPH,
are
classified
as
motor
vehicles
and
require
registration,
insurance,
and
a
valid
California
driver
license
to
operate.
NEVs
can
travel
on
streets
posted
more
than
35
miles
per
hour
if
an
NEV
lane
is
provided.
Assuming
a
posted
maximum
speed
limit
of
45
MPH
and
a
design
speed
of
55
MPH,
golf
carts
and
NEVs
could
be
operated
on
most
City
streets
with
NEV
lanes.
Approved
golf
cart
and
NEV
routes
are
shown
on
the
Golf
Cart
and
NEV
Routes
exhibit.
The
City
sets
minimum
design
criteria,
signage,
and
golf
cart
and
operator
requirements.
(See
Exhibit
II-‐7
&
Exhibit
II-‐8:
Golf
Cart
and
NEV
Routes).
Electric
Vehicle
Charging
Stations
The
first
“opportunity
charging
stations”
were
simple
110v
plugs
in
a
basic
configuration.
These
stations,
along
with
designated
parking
spaces,
were
often
placed
in
out-‐of-‐the-‐way
places
away
from
store
entrances.
As
the
use
of
golf
carts
and
NEVs
has
grown
and
retailers
CIRCULATION
II-‐66
have
learned
to
understand
the
benefits
of
catering
to
this
commuter,
parking
space
location
and
charging
station
design
have
evolved.
Today,
spaces
are
more
prominently
located
and
the
charging
stations
have
been
adapted
to
accommodate
golf
carts,
NEV,
and
full-‐size
electric
and
plug-‐in
hybrids,
they
also
reflect
greater
design
aesthetic.
These
low
cost
charging
stations
should
be
included
in
conditions
of
approval
for
new
development
and
redevelopment
where
use
of
NEVs
and
other
electric
vehicles
is
expected.
CIRCULATION
II-‐69
Types
of
Trails
There
are
generally
two
types
of
trails
that
are
applicable
to
a
General
Plan
trail
system:
urban
trails
and
open
space
trails.
Urban
trails,
principally
sidewalks
and
multi-‐use
paths
along
roadways,
are
expected
to
serve
as
the
most
widely
distributed
system
of
alternative
transportation
routes
through
the
community,
linking
residential
neighborhoods
with
central
areas
of
the
community.
While
open
space
trails
will
function
as
an
access
to
natural
and
scenic
resource
areas,
it
is
expected
that
they
will
generally
be
used
for
jogging,
hiking,
horseback
riding
and
bike
riding.
Both
types
of
paths
will
utilize
appropriate
signage
for
directional
guidance,
and
consist
of
suitable
designs
and
materials.
Consideration
must
also
be
given
for
the
provision
of
shade,
especially
during
the
summer
months.
Together,
urban
and
open
space
trails
and
paths
create
a
multi-‐use
path
system
that
can
accommodate
all
types
of
users,
and
provide
access
to
a
variety
of
areas.
Multi-‐Use
Path
Design
It
is
the
intent
of
the
Circulation
Element
that
multi-‐use
paths
provide
pedestrian,
bicycle
and
NEV
travel
ways
that
are
separated
from
automobile
traffic.
Path
crossings
must
be
safe
for
all
users,
and
should
also
provide
convenient
connections
to
the
City’s
street
network.
In
general,
path
crossings
should
be
treated
just
like
other
intersection
types,
oriented
at
90
degree
angles
whenever
possible,
ensuring
safety
for
all
trail
and
road
users.
In
addition
to
typical
intersection
lighting,
signage,
and
traffic
control
features,
trail
crossings
should
include
design
features
that
warn
both
path
and
roadway
users
of
the
crossing.
Restricting
parking
near
path
crossings,
as
at
typical
intersections,
enhances
sight
distance.
The
speed
that
various
types
of
cyclists
can
be
expected
to
maintain
under
various
conditions
can
also
influence
the
design
of
facilities
such
as
shared
use
paths.
Compatibility
of
other
users
with
cyclists
is
also
an
important
consideration.
Some
of
the
elements
that
enhance
off-‐street
path
design
include
the
following:
Sidewalk
and
Multi-‐Use
Path
CIRCULATION
II-‐70
frequent
access
points
from
the
local
road
network.
If
access
points
are
spaced
too
far
apart,
users
may
have
to
travel
out
of
their
way
to
enter
or
exit
the
path,
which
can
discourage
use
wayfinding
signs
that
direct
users
to
and
from
the
path
and
major
roadway
crossings
appropriate
pavement
load
thresholds
to
allow
heavy
maintenance
equipment
to
use
the
path
without
causing
damage
intersection
designs
that
alert
motorists
to
the
presence
of
cyclists,
and
that
alert
cyclists
to
the
presence
of
motor
vehicles
security
measures
separate
pedestrian
paths
to
reduce
conflicts
with
bicycles
landscape
designs
to
accommodate
bicycles
and
discourage
loitering
SunLine
Transit
Agency
and
Public
Transportation
The
provider
of
public
transit
service
within
La
Quinta
and
the
Coachella
Valley
is
the
SunLine
Transit
Agency,
which
was
created
in
1977
and
has
since
evolved
to
provide
a
wide
range
of
public
transit
services.
The
periodically
updated
Comprehensive
Operational
Analysis
(COA),
last
conducted
in
2005/06,
thoroughly
examines
and
analyzes
existing
transit
service
and
offered
recommendations
for
future
service
improvements
in
the
City
and
valley.
In
addition
to
SunLine’s
fleet
of
new
buses
powered
by
compressed
natural
gas
and
other
clean-‐burning
fuels,
SunLine
is
also
integrating
other
innovative
technologies
and
fuels
into
the
local
public
transit
system.
In
2002
SunLine
introduced
a
bus
powered
entirely
by
zero-‐
emission
fuel
cell
technology.
Local
Bus
Service
The
City
and
Sphere
of
Influence
are
directly
served
by
two
bus
routes,
Line
111
and
Line
70.
Line
111,
runs
along
Highway
111
from
Indio
to
Palm
Springs
and
is
a
main
trunk
line
in
the
SunLine
system.
Line
70
extends
from
the
south
end
of
the
La
Quinta
Cove,
north
to
and
east
along
CIRCULATION
II-‐71
Avenue
47,
then
north
along
Adams
Street
where
it
turns
west
to
Washington
Street
and
north
to
Country
Club
Drive.
Supplemental
SunLine
Services
The
SunDial
is
a
valley-‐wide,
ADA-‐compliant
service
providing
curb-‐to-‐
curb
next
day
service
that
is
wheelchair
accessible.
Sunline
is
putting
into
service
a
new
"Riverside
Commuter
Express
Route
210"
service
that
will
run
between
Palm
Desert
and
Riverside.
This
service
will
be
an
expansion
of
the
existing
RTA
CommuterLink
Route
210
service
between
Banning
and
Riverside,
with
local
stops
to
include
Thousand
Palms/I-‐10
area,
Cabazon
and
other
communities
to
the
west.
SunLine
Bus
Rapid
Transit
(BRT)
Route
SunLine
has
been
developing
the
bus
rapid
transit
or
BRT
concept
for
application
in
the
Coachella
Valley.
The
purpose
of
the
BRT
is
to
provide
express
service
between
major
destinations,
with
a
limited
number
of
strategically
selected
stops
along
the
route
to
limit
travel
time.
The
BRT
route
may
also
provide
opportunities
for
the
development
of
transit-‐oriented
mixed-‐use
development,
especially
along
Highway
111
where
the
use
of
a
BRT
system
might
be
best
utilized
by
local
residents
and
employees.
Areas
of
adequately
intense
development
will
constitute
a
potential
market
for
this
type
of
mass
transit
system.
The
City
shall
continue
to
coordinate
with
SunLine
to
assure
optimum
bus
and
other
mass
transit
services.
Other
Bus
Services
Amtrak
California's
Thruway
Bus
Service
Route
19b
recently
established
a
stop
in
La
Quinta
on
Hwy
111,
connecting
to
train
stations
in
San
Bernardino
and
Bakersfield.
The
bus
stop
is
located
at
78998
Highway
111
in
La
Quinta
[in
front
of
Target
(East
Bound)
and
Eisenhower
Urgent
Care
(West
Bound).]
Route
19B
also
stops
at
the
Palm
Springs
Airport
and
originates
from
the
Indio
bus
terminal.
CIRCULATION
II-‐72
Air
Transportation
La
Quinta
and
the
Coachella
Valley
region
are
served
by
three
airports,
each
of
which
is
briefly
described
below:
Palm
Springs
International
Airport
Palm
Springs
International
Airport
is
located
west
of
Gene
Autry
Trail
and
north
of
Ramon
Road
in
the
City
of
Palm
Springs,
and
is
the
primary
air
transportation
link
for
the
Coachella
Valley.
The
airport
is
classified
in
the
National
Plan
of
Integrated
Airport
Systems
(NPIAS)
as
a
long-‐haul
commercial
service
airport.
It
is
capable
of
supporting
non-‐
stop
commercial
service
to
destinations
over
1,500
miles
away,
and
is
classified
as
a
small
hub
air
passenger
airport
based
upon
the
percentage
of
national
airline
enplanements
it
supports.
Airport
enplanements
are
projected
to
reach
approximately
809,256
by
the
year
2015
Jacqueline
Cochran
Regional
Airport
The
Jacqueline
Cochran
Regional
Airport
is
located
immediately
east
of
the
City’s
Sphere
of
influence,
on
the
east
side
of
Harrison
Street,
between
Avenue
56
(Airport
Boulevard)
and
Avenue
62.
Annual
aircraft
operations
at
Jacqueline
Cochran
Regional
Airport
were
estimated
at
65,000
in
2002,
none
of
which
were
of
a
commercial
nature.
The
airport's
master
plan
projects
this
activity
to
reach
some
110,000
operations
by
2022
and
to
continue
to
grow
along
with
the
urbanization
of
the
Coachella
Valley.
While
commercial
passenger
services
are
anticipated
there
is
no
projected
date
when
these
might
be
offered.
Bermuda
Dunes
Airport
Bermuda
Dunes
Airport
is
a
General
Aviation
Airport
located
on
100±
acres
adjacent
and
parallel
to
the
Union
Pacific
Railroad/
Interstate-‐10
corridor,
approximately
three
miles
north
of
the
City
limits.
The
airport
is
bounded
on
the
north
by
Country
Club
Drive,
on
the
south
by
Avenue
42,
on
the
west
by
Adams
Street
and
on
the
east
by
Jefferson
Street.
A
total
of
approximately
25,332
operations
occur
at
this
airport,
of
which
about
6.6%
are
business
jets.
The
expansion
of
facilities
at
this
airport
is
essentially
precluded
by
surrounding
development.
Annual
maximum
capacity
is
estimated
at
75,000
operations
per
year.
Railway
Facilities
Rail
lines
of
the
Union
Pacific
Railroad
(UPRR)
are
located
north
and
east
of
the
La
Quinta
planning
area.
Rail
freight
service
is
provided
to
the
Coachella
Valley
by
the
Union
Pacific
Railroad
(former
SPRR),
with
freight
transfer
facilities
located
in
Indio
and
Coachella.
There
is
also
Amtrak
service
to
Indio
and
Palm
Springs.
These
rail
facilities
carry
CIRCULATION
II-‐73
approximately
40
trains
per
day,
almost
all
of
which
are
freight.
The
County
and
local
jurisdictions
are
exploring
possible
future
access
to
Union
Pacific
Rail
lines
for
future
passenger
and
freight
service
access.
LA
QUINTA
TODAY:
CURRENT
CONDITIONS
For
many
decades
and
especially
over
the
last
30-‐years,
the
La
Quinta
roadway
network
has
been
driven
by
geography,
land
use
decisions
and
the
makeup
of
the
City
and
Coachella
Valley
economies.
Overall
land
use
densities
in
the
Coachella
Valley
are
not
very
high,
and
therefore
our
communities
are
more
spread
out.
We
are
also
highly
dependent
upon
the
automobile
and
with
low
rates
of
occupancy.
Regional
Roadways
Regional
roadways
are
those
that
provide
intra-‐valley
and
super
regional
connections.
These
include
State
Highways
111
and
86,
and
U.S.
Interstate-‐10.
State
Highway
111
begins
at
its
juncture
with
Interstate-‐10
three
miles
west
of
Palm
Springs
and
extends
southeast
to
Brawley
in
the
Imperial
Valley.
Highway
86
connects
the
planning
area
and
other
parts
of
the
Coachella
Valley
with
Imperial
County
and
Mexico.
Interstate-‐10
connects
the
Los
Angeles
region
with
Arizona
and
other
cities
and
states
to
the
east.
Together,
these
important
roadways
provide
regional,
interstate
and
international
connections
for
the
City
and
the
Coachella
Valley.
Each
of
these
regional
facilities
is
briefly
discussed
below.
Highway
111
Highway
111
has
become
an
intra-‐regional
connector
serving
local
cities.
Some
through-‐traffic
appears
to
have
moved
north
to
I-‐10,
in
response
to
congestion
along
Highway
111.
In
the
City,
this
roadway
has
already
been
improved
to
its
ultimate
six-‐lanes
divided
design
standard.
Highway
111
serves
a
wide
mix
of
commercial
land
uses.
Current
traffic
volumes
range
from
29,726
to
more
than
38,000
vehicles
per
day
(VPD).
SunLine
bus
service
is
available
along
its
length
and
this
roadway
serves
as
a
designated
truck
route.
Highway
86S
Expressway
Highway
86S
is
a
semi-‐limited
access
expressway
and
an
intra-‐regional
arterial
highway
providing
access
to
Avenue
62
in
the
southeastern
portion
of
the
City.
Highway
86S
is
a
northwest-‐southeast
trending
expressway
designated
as
a
“Freeway”
in
the
County
of
Riverside
General
Plan,
with
a
variable
right-‐of-‐way.
In
the
vicinity
of
the
planning
area,
Highway
86S
has
been
improved
as
a
four-‐lane
high
volume
roadway
with
a
wide
median
island.
Current
(2007)
traffic
volumes
CIRCULATION
II-‐74
range
from
14,000
to
more
than
27,500
vehicles
per
day
(VPD).
Due
to
high
future
volumes,
the
current
at-‐grade
intersection
of
SR-‐86
and
Avenue
62
has
been
planned
for
expansion
to
provide
a
grade-‐
separated
facility
utilizing
a
partial
cloverleaf
design.
U.S.
Interstate-‐10
Interstate-‐10
is
currently
built
as
a
six
to
eight-‐lane
divided
freeway
accessed
from
both
loop
and
diamond
interchanges
spaced
a
minimum
of
one
mile
apart.
I-‐10
provides
essential
inter-‐city
and
inter-‐regional
access
and
is
also
a
critical
part
of
the
local
road
network
moving
people
and
goods
into
and
out
of
the
Valley.
Current
(2007)
traffic
volumes
average
81,000
vehicles
per
day
(VPD)
in
the
vicinity
of
Washington
Street.
Direct
City
access
to
I-‐10
is
currently
provided
through
interchanges
with
Washington
Street
and
Jefferson
Street.
Local
Major
Roadways
The
City
has
developed
and
maintains
an
extensive
arterial
roadway
network,
which,
in
addition
to
the
regional
facilities
serving
the
community,
also
serves
both
local
and
inter-‐city
traffic.
The
City
road
network
has
been
built
essentially
along
a
north-‐south
grid,
with
interconnections
with
major
arterials
passing
through
adjacent
jurisdictions.
Washington
Street
Washington
Street,
oriented
in
a
north-‐south
direction,
consists
of
three
lanes
in
each
direction,
and
is
classified
as
a
Major
Arterial.
Current
traffic
volumes
range
from
approximately
23,000
to
more
than
40,000
vehicles
per
day
(VPD).
Washington
Street
provides
access
to
Highway
111
and
to
I-‐10
north
of
the
City
limits.
Intersections
with
Washington
Street
are
currently
operating
at
Level
of
Service
(LOS)
C
or
better,
with
the
exception
of
its
intersection
with
Highway
111
(LOS
D
in
2010).
Roadway
segments
operate
at
LOS
C
or
better.
Washington
Street
provides
all-‐weather
crossings
at
the
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel
(Whitewater
River)
and
the
La
Quinta
Stormwater
Evacuation
Channel.
Bicycles
are
accommodated
and
SunLine
bus
service
is
also
available
along
the
majority
of
its
length.
Eisenhower
Drive
Eisenhower
Drive
is
oriented
in
an
east-‐west
direction
at
Washington
Street,
and
transitions
to
a
north-‐south
roadway
at
Avenue
50.
Eisenhower
Drive
consists
of
two
lanes
in
each
direction
and
is
classified
as
a
Primary
Arterial.
Eisenhower
Drive
provides
an
all-‐
weather
at
the
La
Quinta
Stormwater
Evacuation
Channel.
Current
traffic
volumes
range
from
10,000
to
12,000
VPD.
Intersections
with
CIRCULATION
II-‐75
Eisenhower
Drive
are
operating
at
LOS
C
or
better
and
roadway
segments
operate
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles
and
golf
carts
are
accommodated
on
portions
of
Eisenhower.
Avenida
Bermudas
Avenida
Bermudas
is
oriented
in
a
north-‐south
direction
and
consists
of
two
lanes
in
each
direction,
extending
from
Calle
Tampico
on
the
north
to
the
top
of
the
Cove
on
the
south.
This
roadway
is
classified
as
a
Secondary
Arterial
with
traffic
volumes
ranging
from
3,400
to
9,200
VPD.
Avenida
Bermudas
provides
a
variable
paved
section
ranging
from
four
lanes
in
the
Village
area
to
two
lanes
near
the
top
of
the
cove.
The
intersections
of
Eisenhower
Drive
and
Calle
Tampico
is
operating
at
LOS
C
or
better
and
roadway
segments
operate
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles
and
buses
are
accommodated.
Calle
Tampico
Calle
Tampico,
oriented
in
an
east-‐west
direction,
consists
of
two
lanes
in
each
direction
west
of
Washington
Street
and
one
lane
in
each
direction
east
of
Washington
Street,
and
is
classified
as
a
Primary
Arterial
west
of
Washington
Street.
East
of
Washington
Street,
Calle
Tampico
is
classified
as
a
Collector
Street.
Current
traffic
volumes
range
from
5,300
VPD
west
of
Avenida
Bermudas
and
about
10,000
VPD
west
of
Washington
Street.
Its
intersections
all
currently
operate
at
LOS
C
and
roadway
segments
operate
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles,
golf
carts
and
buses
are
accommodated.
Adams
Street
Adams
Street
is
oriented
in
a
north-‐south
direction
and
consists
of
two
lanes
in
each
direction
except
north
of
Fred
Waring
Drive
where
it
is
currently
one
lane
in
each
direction.
It
is
classified
as
a
Secondary
Arterial
and
has
been
built
as
a
Primary
Arterial
between
Highway
111
and
Avenue
48,
with
traffic
volumes
ranging
from
12,000
to
14,000
VPD.
Its
intersections
all
currently
operate
at
LOS
C
and
roadway
segments
operate
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles
and
buses
are
accommodated.
A
bridge
to
Carry
Adams
Street
over
the
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel
(Whitewater
River)
is
about
to
begin
construction
(2012).
Dune
Palms
Road
Dune
Palms
Road
is
oriented
in
a
north-‐south
direction
and
consists
of
two
lanes
in
each
direction
between
Fred
Waring
Drive
and
Westward
Ho
Drive,
one
lane
in
each
direction
between
Westward
Ho
Drive
and
Highway
111,
and
two
lanes
in
each
direction
between
Highway
111
and
Avenue
48.
Dune
Palms
Road
is
classified
as
a
Secondary
Arterial.
Current
traffic
volumes
range
from
10,000
to
12,000
VPD.
Intersections
CIRCULATION
II-‐76
with
Dune
Palms
Road
are
operating
at
LOS
C
and
roadway
segments
operate
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles
are
accommodated.
There
is
an
at-‐grade
crossing
of
the
Whitewater
River
with
long-‐term
plans
for
at
least
a
low-‐flow
crossing
at
this
location.
Jefferson
Street
Jefferson
Street
is
oriented
in
a
north-‐south
direction
and
consists
of
three
lanes
in
each
direction.
It
is
classified
as
a
Major
Arterial
north
of
Avenue
54
and
as
a
Modified
Secondary
Arterial
between
Avenue
58
and
Avenue
62.
Jefferson
Street
provides
access
to
State
Highway
111,
southern
parts
of
the
City,
and
to
I-‐10
north
of
the
City
limits.
Current
traffic
volumes
range
from
12,000
to
27,000
VPD.
Intersections
with
Jefferson
Street
are
operating
at
LOS
C
or
better;
the
roundabout
at
Avenue
52
is
operating
at
LOS
A.
Roadway
segments
operate
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles
are
accommodated.
There
are
two
all-‐weather
crossings
of
major
drainages
in
the
planning
area,
including
one
just
south
of
Highway
111
over
the
La
Quinta
Evacuation
Channel
and
one
over
the
Whitewater
River
north
of
Highway
111.
An
additional
all-‐weather
crossing
of
the
Dike
2
stormwater
protection
levee
is
planned
south
of
Avenue
58.
Madison
Street
Madison
Street
is
oriented
in
a
north-‐south
direction
and
consists
of
one
lane
in
each
direction
between
Avenue
50
and
Avenue
52
and
four
lanes
in
each
direction
between
Avenue
52
and
Avenue
60.
Madison
Street
is
classified
as
a
Primary
Arterial
between
Avenue
50
and
Avenue
58,
as
a
Secondary
Arterial
between
Avenue
58
and
Avenue
60,
and
as
a
Modified
Secondary
Arterial
between
Avenue
60
and
Avenue
62.
Current
traffic
volumes
range
from
3,300
to
9,200
VPD.
Most
intersections
with
Madison
Street
are
operating
at
LOS
A
or
B,
with
its
intersection
with
Avenue
50
operating
at
LOS
C
in
the
AM
and
D
in
the
PM
peak
hours.
Roadway
segments
operate
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles
are
accommodated.
An
all-‐weather
crossing
of
the
Dike
4
stormwater
protection
levee
is
planned
north
of
Avenue
62.
Monroe
Street
Monroe
Street
is
oriented
in
a
north-‐south
direction
and
consists
of
one
lane
in
each
direction.
It
is
classified
as
a
Primary
Arterial
between
Avenue
52
and
Avenue
60
and
as
a
Secondary
Arterial
between
Avenue
60
and
Avenue
62.
Monroe
Street
provides
access
to
State
Highway
111
and
to
I-‐10
north
of
the
City
limits.
Current
traffic
volumes
range
from
2,500
to
3,100
VPD.
Intersections
with
Monroe
Street
are
operating
at
LOS
B
or
better,
with
roadway
segments
operating
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles
are
accommodated.
CIRCULATION
II-‐77
Jackson
Street
Jackson
Street
is
oriented
in
a
north-‐south
direction
and
consists
of
one
lane
in
each
direction.
It
is
classified
as
a
Primary
Arterial.
Jackson
Street
is
located
in
the
City’s
Sphere
of
Influence
and
provides
access
to
State
Highway
111
and
to
I-‐10
north
of
the
City
limits.
Current
traffic
volumes
range
from
1,700
to
3,300
VPD.
In
the
planning
area,
intersections
with
Jackson
Street
operate
at
LOS
B
or
better,
with
roadway
segments
operating
at
a
LOS
A.
Bicycles
are
accommodated.
Van
Buren
Street
Van
Buren
Street
is
oriented
in
a
north-‐south
direction
and
consists
of
one
lane
in
each
direction.
It
is
classified
as
a
Primary
Arterial
between
Avenue
52
and
Avenue
60
and
as
a
Secondary
Arterial
between
Avenue
60
and
Avenue
62.
Van
Buren
Street
is
located
in
the
City’s
Sphere
of
Influence.
In
the
planning
area,
intersections
with
Van
Buren
Street
operate
at
LOS
B
or
better,
with
roadway
segments
operating
at
a
LOS
A.
No
alternative
modes
of
travel
are
accommodated.
Harrison
Street
Harrison
Street
is
oriented
in
a
north-‐south
direction
and
consists
of
one
lane
in
each
direction.
It
is
classified
as
a
Major
Arterial.
Harrison
Street
is
located
in
the
City’s
Sphere
of
Influence.
In
the
planning
area,
intersections
with
Jackson
Street
operate
at
LOS
B
or
better,
with
roadway
segments
operating
at
a
LOS
A.
No
alternative
modes
of
travel
are
accommodated.
Fred
Waring
Drive
Fred
Waring
Drive
(Avenue
44)
is
oriented
in
an
east-‐west
direction
and
consists
of
three
lanes
in
each
direction
between
Washington
Street
and
Adams
St
and
between
Dune
Palms
Road
and
Jefferson
Street.
Between
Adams
Street
and
Dune
Palms
Road,
Fred
Waring
Drive
consists
of
two
lanes
in
both
directions.
Fred
Waring
Drive
is
classified
as
a
Primary
Arterial.
Current
traffic
volumes
range
at
approximately
24,500
VPD.
Intersections
with
Fred
Waring
Drive
are
operating
at
LOS
C,
with
roadway
segments
operating
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles
are
accommodated
on
this
roadway.
Miles
Avenue
Miles
Avenue
is
oriented
in
an
east-‐west
direction
and
consists
of
two
lanes
in
each
direction.
It
is
classified
as
a
Primary
Arterial.
Current
traffic
volumes
between
Washington
Street
and
Adams
Street
are
approximately
24,500
VPD.
Intersections
with
Miles
Avenue
are
currently
operating
at
LOS
C,
with
roadway
segments
operating
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles
and
a
bus
route
are
accommodated.
CIRCULATION
II-‐78
Avenue
48
Avenue
48,
oriented
in
an
east-‐west
direction,
consists
of
two
lanes
in
each
direction,
and
is
classified
as
a
Primary
Arterial.
Current
traffic
volumes
between
Washington
Street
and
Madison
Street
range
from
9,600
VPD
east
of
Jefferson
Street,
to
about
18,400
VPH
east
of
Dune
Palms
Road.
Intersections
with
Avenue
48
are
currently
operating
at
LOS
C,
with
roadway
segments
operating
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles
are
accommodated.
Avenue
50
Avenue
50,
oriented
in
an
east-‐west
direction,
consists
of
two
lanes
in
each
direction,
and
is
classified
as
a
Primary
Arterial.
Current
traffic
volumes
between
Washington
Street
and
Madison
Street
average
9,800
VPD.
Intersections
with
Avenue
48
are
currently
operating
at
LOS
C,
with
the
exception
of
the
Avenue
50
intersection
with
Washington
Street,
which
is
operating
at
LOS
D.
Roadway
segments
are
operating
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles
are
accommodated.
Avenue
52
Avenue
52
is
oriented
in
an
east-‐west
direction
and
consists
of
two
lanes
in
each
direction
between
Avenida
Bermudas
and
Jefferson
Street.
Between
Jefferson
Street
and
Monroe
Street,
Avenue
52
consists
of
two
eastbound
lanes
and
one
westbound
lane.
Between
Monroe
Street
and
Jackson
Street,
Avenue
52
consists
of
one
eastbound
lane
and
two
westbound
lanes.
Avenue
52
is
classified
as
a
Primary
Arterial
throughout
the
City
and
the
City’s
Sphere
of
Influence.
Current
traffic
volumes
range
from
7,200
VPD
west
of
Monroe
Street
to
about
16,100
VPD
west
of
Washington
Street.
Intersections
with
Avenue
52
are
currently
operating
at
LOS
C
or
better,
with
the
exception
of
the
Avenue
52
intersection
with
Avenida
Bermudas,
which
is
operating
at
LOS
D.
Roadway
segments
are
operating
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles,
golf
carts
and
buses
are
accommodated.
Avenue
54
Avenue
54
is
an
east-‐west
street
consisting
of
two
lanes
in
each
direction
between
Jefferson
Street
to
east
of
Monroe
Street.
East
of
Monroe
Street,
Avenue
54
is
a
variable
roadway
with
two
westbound
lanes
and
one
eastbound
lane.
East
of
Monroe
Street,
Jefferson
Street
provides
one
lane
in
each
direction.
Avenue
54
is
classified
as
a
Primary
Arterial
between
Jefferson
Street
and
Monroe
Street
and
is
classified
as
a
Secondary
roadway
between
Monroe
Street
and
Van
Buren
Street.
Current
traffic
volumes
are
7,200
VPD
between
Jefferson
and
Madison
Streets.
Intersections
with
Avenue
52
are
currently
operating
at
LOS
C
or
better,
with
the
exception
of
the
Avenue
52
intersection
with
CIRCULATION
II-‐79
Avenida
Bermudas,
which
is
operating
at
LOS
D.
Roadway
segments
are
operating
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles,
golf
carts
and
buses
are
accommodated.
Avenue
56
(Airport
Boulevard)
Airport
Boulevard
or
Avenue
56
is
an
east-‐west
street
extending
east
of
Madison
Street,
and
consisting
of
two
lanes
in
each
direction
between
Jefferson
Street
Monroe
Street.
East
of
Monroe
Street,
Avenue
56
is
a
two-‐lane
roadway.
Avenue
56
is
classified
as
a
Primary
Arterial.
Current
traffic
volumes
are
1,900
VPD
east
of
Madison
Street.
Intersections
are
currently
operating
at
LOS
C
or
better,
with
the
exception
of
the
Avenue
52
intersection
with
Avenida
Bermudas,
which
is
operating
at
LOS
D.
Roadway
segments
are
operating
at
LOS
A.
Bicycles,
golf
carts
and
buses
are
accommodated
on
the
fully
improved
segment
of
this
roadway.
Avenue
60
Avenue
60
is
an
east-‐west
street
extending
from
the
US
Bureau
of
Reclamation
Dike
4,
eastward
to
the
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel.
Local
two
lane
segments
also
occur
between
the
stormwater
channel
and
the
Highway
111/86S
Expressway
corridor,
east
of
which
it
continues
as
a
local
street
serving
primarily
agriculture.
Avenue
60
is
designated
as
a
Secondary
roadway
from
Madison
Street
on
the
west
to
Monroe
Street,
east
of
which
it
is
classified
as
a
Primary
Arterial.
Avenue
60
is
currently
improved
as
a
two-‐lane
roadway,
except
between
Madison
Street
and
Monroe
Street
where
it
provides
one
eastbound
through
lane,
two
westbound
through
lanes,
median
islands
and
turn
lanes.
Current
traffic
volumes
are
3,000
VPD
east
of
Madison
Street
and
1,500
east
of
Monroe
Street.
Avenue
62
Much
of
the
southern
boundary
of
the
General
Plan
planning
area
is
east-‐west
running
Avenue
62,
which
is
partially
improved
from
USBR
Dike
No.
4
eastward
to
the
east
end
of
the
valley,
crossing
the
stormwater
channel,
as
well
as
Highway
111
and
the
86S
Expressway.
Avenue
62
is
classified
as
a
Modified
Secondary
west
of
Monroe
Street
(extended),
and
is
classified
a
Secondary
east
of
Monroe
Street.
Between
Madison
Street
and
Monroe,
Avenue
62
is
planned
to
have
a
74
foot
right
of
way.
Current
traffic
volumes
are
1,000
VPD
west
of
Monroe
Street
and
ranging
from
500
to
800
VPD
east
of
Monroe
Street.
CIRCULATION
II-‐80
Existing
Traffic
Conditions
The
existing
traffic
conditions
in
the
City
provide
a
baseline
for
the
analysis
of
the
impacts
associated
with
the
implementation
and
buildout
of
the
Land
Use
Map.
The
analysis
of
existing
and
future
conditions
examines
in
detail
thirty-‐seven
(37)
intersections
and
sixty-‐
four
(64)
roadway
segments
both
in
the
corporate
limits
and
the
Sphere
of
Influence.
The
period
of
January
through
March
is
considered
the
peak
season
in
terms
of
traffic
volumes
in
the
City
of
La
Quinta.
Existing
and
future
traffic
conditions
have
been
analyzed
on
the
basis
of
this
peak
season.
Existing
Intersection
Operating
Conditions
A
level
of
service
analysis
was
conducted
in
2011
to
evaluate
existing
intersection
operations
during
the
AM
and
PM
peak
hours
based
on
data
collected
on
intersection
volumes
at
these
locations.
Table
II-‐9
describes
current
operating
conditions.
Based
upon
the
analysis
conducted,
all
but
four
of
the
37
study
intersections
currently
operate
at
LOS
C
or
better.
The
intersection
of
Washington
Street/Highway
111
operates
at
LOS
D
but
very
near
LOS
C
during
the
AM
peak
hour.
During
the
PM
peak
hour,
this
intersection
operates
at
a
slightly
worse
delay
but
remains
at
LOS
D.
The
intersections
of
Washington
Street/Avenue
50
and
Avenida
Bermudas/Avenue
52
both
operate
at
LOS
D
and
very
near
LOS
C,
during
the
AM
peak
hour.
The
intersection
of
Madison
Street/Avenue
50
operates
at
LOS
D
during
only
the
PM
peak
hour.
In
summary,
all
study
intersections
are
operating
at
acceptable
levels
of
service
(LOS
D
or
better).
CIRCULATION
II-‐81
Table
II-‐9
Existing
Peak
Hour
Intersection
Analysis
Peak
Hour/Peak
Season
Level
of
Service
Intersection
Traffic
Control
AM
Peak
Hour
PM
Peak
Hour
LOS
Delay
(Sec)
V/C
LOS
Delay
(Sec)
V/C
1.
Washington
St
&
Fred
Waring
Dr
Signal
C
34.9
0.810
C
34.1
0.699
2.
Washington
St
&
Miles
Ave
Signal
C
29.2
0.592
C
28.0
0.642
3.
Washington
St
&
Channel
Dr
Signal
B
18.2
0.422
C
25.3
0.642
4.
Washington
St
&
Hwy
111
Signal
D
35.3
0.753
D
42.3
0.930
5.
Washington
St
&
Ave
48
Signal
C
32.3
0.907
C
25.1
0.714
6.
Washington
St
&
Eisenhower
Dr
Signal
C
23.7
0.579
C
20.7
0.574
7.
Washington
St
&
Ave
50
Signal
D
37.7
0.851
C
29.4
0.644
8.
Washington
St
&
Calle
Tampico
Signal
C
24.7
0.442
C
25.4
0.406
9.
Washington
St
&
Ave
52
Signal
C
23.2
0.496
C
25.5
0.309
10.
Eisenhower
Dr
&
Calle
Tampico
Signal
C
24.1
0.422
C
27.2
0.398
11.
Avenida
Bermudas
&
Ave
52
Signal
D
38.6
0.855
C
26.3
0.321
12.
Adams
St
&
Fred
Waring
Dr
Signal
C
34.6
0.773
C
28.8
0.640
13.
Adams
St
&
Miles
Ave
Signal
C
31.4
0.447
C
30.8
0.505
14.
Adams
St
&
Hwy
111
Signal
C
29.0
0.443
C
28.7
0.598
15.
Adams
St
&
Ave
48
Signal
C
32.2
0.622
C
30.2
0.503
16.
Dune
Palms
Rd
&
Fred
Waring
Dr
Signal
C
25.4
0.659
C
20.2
0.615
17.
Dune
Palms
Rd
&
Miles
Ave
Signal
C
31.9
0.494
C
31.0
0.370
18.
Dune
Palms
Rd
&
Westward
Ho
Signal
C
30.8
0.561
C
31.4
0.590
CIRCULATION
II-‐82
Table
II-‐9
(cont’d)
Existing
Peak
Hour
Intersection
Analysis
Peak
Hour/Peak
Season
Level
of
Service
Intersection
Traffic
Control
AM
Peak
Hour
PM
Peak
Hour
LOS
Delay
(Sec)
V/C
LOS
Delay
(Sec)
V/C
19.
Dune
Palms
Rd
&
Hwy
111
Signal
C
30.3
0.488
C
26.6
0.582
20.
Dune
Palms
Rd
&
Ave
48
Signal
C
24.1
0.529
C
25.9
0.454
21.
Jefferson
St
&
Fred
Waring
Dr
Signal
C
31.2
0.520
C
30.6
0.481
22.
Jefferson
St
&
Hwy
111
Signal
C
30.3
0.494
C
30.8
0.622
23.
Jefferson
St
&
Ave
48
Signal
C
32.5
0.591
C
31.4
0.560
24.
Jefferson
St
&
Ave
49
Signal
C
23.9
0.435
C
20.1
0.392
25.
Jefferson
St
&
Ave
50
Signal
C
32.9
0.574
C
34.4
0.568
26.
Jefferson
St
&
Ave
52
Round-‐
about
A
7.5
-‐
A
7.0
-‐
27.
Jefferson
St
&
Ave
54
AWSC
B
11.6
0.481
B
11.6
0.496
28.
Madison
St
&
Ave
50
AWSC
C
17.1
0.725
D
32.4
0.981
29.
Madison
St
&
Ave
52
AWSC
B
12.1
0.483
B
13.0
0.447
30.
Madison
St
&
Ave
54
AWSC
B
10.8
0.354
B
11.5
0.439
31.
Madison
St
&
Ave
58
AWSC
A
8.4
0.107
A
9.1
0.175
32.
Madison
St
&
Ave
60
AWSC
A
8.0
0.143
A
9.1
0.286
33.
Monroe
St
&
Ave
52
AWSC
B
13.8
0.528
B
14.4
0.546
34.
Monroe
St
&
Ave
54
AWSC
B
10.2
0.272
B
10.6
0.357
35.
Monroe
St
&
Ave
58
AWSC
A
7.7
0.091
A
8.5
0.216
36.
Monroe
St
&
Ave
60
AWSC
A
7.9
0.094
A
8.1
0.131
37.
Monroe
St
&
Ave
62
AWSC
A
7.5
0.073
A
7.4
0.077
CIRCULATION
II-‐83
Existing
Roadway
Segment
Operating
Conditions
Key
roadway
segments
have
also
been
analysed
as
part
of
the
General
Plan
update.
The
existing
roadway
segment
average
daily
volume-‐to-‐
capacity
ratio
and
level
of
service
analysis
results
are
presented
in
Table
II-‐10,
below.
Table
II-‐10
Existing
Average
Daily
Traffic
Peak
Hour/Peak
Season
Roadway
Segment
Level
of
Service
Roadway
Link
Existing
ADT
Roadway
Designation
Exist.
#
of
Lanes
Existing
Capacity
Existing
V/C
Ratio
-‐
LOS
Washington
St
Ave
42
to
Fred
Waring
Dr
37,426
Major
6
59,300
0.66
–
B
Fred
Waring
Dr
to
Miles
Ave
40,633
Major
6
59,300
0.71
–
C
Miles
Ave
to
Hwy
111
32,915
Major
6
59,300
0.58
–
A
Hwy
111
to
Ave
48
36,710
Major
6
59,300
0.64
–
B
Ave
48
to
Eisenhower
Dr
33,465
Major
6
59,300
0.59
–
A
Eisenhower
Dr
to
600’
north
of
Ave
50
27,129
Major
6
59,300
0.48
–
A
600’
north
of
Ave
50
to
Ave
50
27,129
Major
5
47,500*
0.57
–
A
Ave
50
to
Calle
Tampico
23,434
Major
6
59,300
0.41
–
A
Eisenhower
Dr
Washington
St
to
Ave
50
12,0131
Primary
4
41,400
0.32
–
A
Avenue
50
to
Calle
Tampico
9,9751
Primary
4
41,400
0.26
–
A
Avenida
Bermudas
Calle
Tampico
to
Ave
52
3,3881
Secondary
4
28,000
0.12
–
A
Ave
52
to
Calle
Durango
9,2751
Secondary
4
28,000
0.33
–
A
Adams
St
Westward
Ho
Dr
to
Hwy
111
13,724
Secondary
4
41,400
0.36
–
A
Hwy
111
to
Ave
48
12,035
Secondary
4
41,400
0.32
–
A
Dune
Palms
Rd
Westward
Ho
Dr
to
Hwy
111
9,282
Secondary
2
19,000
0.49
–
A
Hwy
111
to
Ave
48
8,373
Secondary
4
41,400
0.22
–
A
CIRCULATION
II-‐84
Table
II-‐10
(cont’d)
Existing
Average
Daily
Traffic
Peak
Hour/Peak
Season
Roadway
Segment
Level
of
Service
Roadway
Link
Existing
ADT
Roadway
Designation
Exist.
#
of
Lanes
Existing
Capacity
Existing
V/C
Ratio
-‐
LOS
Jefferson
St
Country
Club
Rd
to
Fred
Waring
Dr
20,913
Major
6
59,300
0.35
–
A
Fred
Waring
Dr
to
Miles
Ave
23,764
Major
6
59,300
0.40
–
A
Westward
Ho
Dr
to
Hwy
111
27,112
Major
6
59,300
0.46
–
A
Hwy
111
to
Ave
48
26,889
Major
6
59,300
0.45
–
A
Ave
48
to
Ave
50
27,133
Major
6
59,300
0.46
–
A
Ave
50
to
Ave
52
16,169
Major
6
59,300
0.27
–
A
Ave
52
to
Ave
54
12,399
Major
6
59,300
0.21
–
A
Madison
St
Ave
50
to
Ave
52
5,664
Primary
2
14,000
0.40
–
A
Ave
54
to
Airport
Blvd
9,219
Primary
4
41,400
0.22
–
A
Airport
Blvd
to
Ave
58
6,348
Primary
4
41,400
0.15
–
A
Ave
58
to
Ave
60
3,341
Secondary
4
41,400
0.08
–
A
Monroe
St
Ave
52
to
Ave
54
3,147
Primary
2
14,000
0.22
–
A
Ave
54
to
Airport
Blvd
2,532
Primary
2
14,000
0.18
–
A
Jackson
St
Ave
54
to
Airport
Blvd
3,338
Primary
2
14,000
0.24
–
A
Airport
Blvd
to
Ave
58
2,326
Primary
2
14,000
0.17
–
A
Ave
58
to
Ave
60
1,734
Primary
2
14,000
0.12
–
A
Ave
60
to
Ave
62
1,569
Primary
2
14,000
0.11
–
A
Van
Buren
St
Ave
52
to
Ave
54
4,663
Primary
2
14,000
0.33
–
A
Ave
54
to
Airport
Blvd
3,346
Primary
2
14,000
0.24
–
A
Airport
Blvd
to
Ave
58
1,472
Primary
2
14,000
0.11
–
A
Ave
58
to
Ave
60
1,176
Primary
2
14,000
0.08
–
A
Ave
60
to
Ave
62
1,017
Secondary
2
14,000
0.07
–
A
Harrison
St
Airport
Blvd
to
Ave
58
6,690
Major
2
14,000
0.48
–
A
Fred
Waring
Dr
(Ave
44)
Washington
St
to
Adams
St
24,492
Primary
6
59,300
0.41
–
A
CIRCULATION
II-‐85
Table
II-‐10
(cont’d)
Existing
Average
Daily
Traffic
Peak
Hour/Peak
Season
Roadway
Segment
Level
of
Service
Roadway
Link
Existing
ADT
Roadway
Designation
Exist.
#
of
Lanes
Existing
Capacity
Existing
V/C
Ratio
-‐
LOS
Miles
Ave
Washington
St
to
Adams
St
9,828
Primary
4
41,400
0.24
–
A
Hwy
111
Washington
St
to
Adams
St
29,726
Major
6
59,300
0.50
–
A
Adams
St
to
Dune
Palms
Rd
31,348
Major
6
59,300
0.53
–
A
Dune
Palms
Rd
to
Jefferson
St
38,037
Major
6
59,300
0.64
–
B
Ave
48
Washington
St
to
Adams
St
12,903
Primary
4
41,400
0.31
–
A
Dune
Palms
Rd
to
Jefferson
St
18,364
Primary
4
41,400
0.44
–
A
Ave
50
Washington
St
to
Jefferson
St
9,663
Primary
4
41,400
0.23
–
A
Jefferson
St
to
Madison
St
9,990
Primary
4
41,400
0.24
–
A
Calle
Tampico
Eisenhower
Dr
to
Avenida
Bermudas
5,3501
Primary
41,400
0.13
–
A
Avenida
Bermudas
to
Washington
St
10,0631
Primary
41,400
0.24
–
A
Ave
52
Avenida
Bermudas
to
Washington
St
16,133
Primary
4
41,400
0.39
–
A
Washington
St
to
Jefferson
St
13,529
Primary
4
41,400
0.33
–
A
Jefferson
St
to
Madison
St
10,306
Primary
2
19,000
0.54
–
A
Madison
St
to
Monroe
St
7,238
Primary
2
19,000
0.38
–
A
Ave
54
Jefferson
St
to
Madison
St
8,386
Primary
4
41,400
0.20
–
A
Airport
Blvd
Madison
St
to
Monroe
St
1,893
Primary
4
41,400
0.05
–
A
CIRCULATION
II-‐86
Table
II-‐10
(cont’d)
Existing
Average
Daily
Traffic
Peak
Hour/Peak
Season
Roadway
Segment
Level
of
Service
Roadway
Link
Existing
ADT
Roadway
Designation
Exist.
#
of
Lanes
Existing
Capacity
Existing
V/C
Ratio
-‐
LOS
Ave
58
Madison
St
to
Monroe
St
2,188
Secondary
4
41,400
0.05
–
A
Monroe
St
to
Jackson
St
1,554
Secondary
2
14,000
0.11
–
A
Ave
60
Madison
St
to
Monroe
St
3,067
Secondary
2
19,000
0.16
–
A
Monroe
St
to
Jackson
St
855
Primary
2
14,000
0.06
–
A
Ave
62
Madison
St
to
Monroe
St
1,0251
Modified
Collector
2
14,000
0.07
–
A
Monroe
St
to
Jackson
St
804
Secondary
2
14,000
0.06
–
A
Jackson
St
to
Van
Buren
St
557
Secondary
2
14,000
0.04
–
A
Van
Buren
St
to
Harrison
St
866
Secondary
2
14,000
0.06
–
A
All
but
four
of
the
roadway
segments
analyzed
are
currently
operating
at
LOS
A.
Three
segments
(Ave
42
to
Fred
Waring
Dr.,
Hwy
111
to
Ave
48,
and
Dune
Palms
Rd.
to
Jefferson
St.)
are
operating
at
LOS
B.
One
segment
(Fred
Waring
Dr.
to
Miles
Ave.)
is
operating
at
LOS
C.
All
analyzed
roadway
segments
are
operating
well
within
the
acceptable
levels
of
service.
CIRCULATION
II-‐88
GENERAL
PLAN
BUILDOUT
It
has
been
assumed
that
buildout
of
the
General
Plan
will
occur
in
2035.
As
a
direct
result
of
the
analysis
conducted
on
existing
traffic
and
roadway
conditions,
including
an
assessment
of
potential
for
further
widening
City
roadways,
the
roadway
classification
system
has
been
slightly
modified.
This
process
has
also
taken
into
consideration
special
issues
of
concern
and
opportunities
to
enhance
community
circulation.
General
Plan
Buildout
Intersection
Operating
Conditions
with
2002
General
Plan
Enhancements
The
level
of
service
analysis
was
conducted
to
evaluate
the
effects
of
buildout
of
the
Land
Use
Map
on
intersection
operations
during
the
AM
and
PM
peak
hours.
The
analysis
assumed
the
previously
adopted
General
Plan
roadway
network
with
a
modification
that
returns
Washington
Street
to
a
6-‐lane
facility
between
Highway
111
and
Avenue
48
(and
along
a
short
segment
of
Highway
111).
The
2002
General
Plan
called
for
eight
travel
lanes
along
this
segment
and
on
that
portion
of
Highway
111
from
Washington
Street
to
the
westerly
city
limits.
Because
of
existing
development,
this
widening
is
not
currently
possible.
Year
2035
with
General
Plan
Land
Use
Plan
traffic
volumes
were
calculated,
distributed
and
assigned.
The
external
trips
generated
within
adjoining
jurisdictions
are
assigned
to
the
perimeter
roadway
network
by
the
RivTAM
model.
These
"external"
trips
can
be
substantial,
comprising
approximately
53
percent
of
Highway
111
traffic.
The
future
lane
configurations
of
the
study
intersections
assumed
buildout
of
a
modified
version
of
the
City's
2002
General
Plan
roadway
network,
and
intersection
geometries
are
optimized
to
provide
the
greatest
amount
of
capacity
with
the
lowest
investment
of
land
and
infrastructure.
These
additional
improvements
that
go
beyond
those
set
forth
in
the
2002
General
Plan
are
discussed
in
the
section
that
follows.
The
General
Plan
EIR
provides
detailed
information
on
the
operation
of
intersections
without
improvements.
The
analysis
of
2002
General
Plan
improvements
indicates
that
24
of
the
37
intersections
are
projected
to
operate
at
LOS
E
or
worse
upon
General
Plan
buildout.
Of
these,
22
are
projected
to
operate
at
LOS
F
and
5
at
LOS
E.
This
scenario
assumes
that
Washington
Street
remains
at
its
current
six
through
lanes.
CIRCULATION
II-‐90
General
Plan
Buildout
Intersection
Operating
Conditions
With
2012
General
Plan
Enhancements
As
set
forth
in
the
General
Plan
Traffic
Impact
Analysis,
some
additional
physical
widening
is
called
for
at
certain
planning
area
intersections.
The
full
intersection
improvements
needed
by
2035
to
assure
operations
at
LOS
D
or
better
are
set
forth
below
and
are
shown
on
Exhibit
II-‐11.
Enhancements
include
traditional
roadway
widening
and
the
use
of
alternative
intersection
design.
Additional,
largely
non-‐
physical
improvements
to
be
applied
include
the
development
and
implementation
of
transportation
systems
management
and
transportation
demand
management
(TSM
and
TDM).
Additional
widening
at
some
intersections
may
not
be
possible
and
is
not
always
viewed
as
a
community
improvement
in
any
event.
There
are
also
existing
physical
constraints
that
preclude
some
of
the
improvements
needed
to
assure
acceptable
levels
of
service.
Consideration
is
also
given
to
lesser
improvements
that
would
require
an
ongoing
commitment
to
systems
operations
or
they
will
fail
to
deliver
minimum
LOS
D
conditions.
The
following
physical
improvements
are
needed
to
assure
acceptable
levels
of
service
at
General
Plan
intersections.
Washington
Street/Fred
Waring
Drive
–
§ Northbound
approach:
three
left-‐turn
lanes,
four
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
four
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
§ Eastbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
four
through
lanes,
two
right-‐turn
lanes
§ Westbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
four
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
Washington
Street/Miles
Avenue
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase.
CIRCULATION
II-‐91
Washington
Street/Channel
Drive
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
one
shared
left-‐turn/through/right-‐
turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
one
shared
left-‐turn/through
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane.
Washington
Street/Highway
111
–
§ Northbound
approach:
three
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
three
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
two
right-‐turn
lanes
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
§ Westbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase.
Washington
Street/Avenue
48
–
§ Northbound
approach:
two
through
lanes
and
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes
§ Westbound
approach:
three
left-‐turn
lanes
and
one
right-‐
turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase.
Washington
Street/Eisenhower
Drive
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
one
shared
left-‐
turn/through
lane/right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
one
shared
left-‐turn/through
lane/right-‐turn
lane
Washington
Street/Avenue
50
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
CIRCULATION
II-‐92
§ Eastbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase.
Washington
Street/Calle
Tampico
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
§ Eastbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
one
shared
left-‐
turn/through
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
Washington
Street/Avenue
52
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
shared
left-‐turn/through/right-‐
turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
shared
left-‐
turn/through
lane,
two
right-‐turn
lanes
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
§ Eastbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
Eisenhower
Drive/Calle
Tampico
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
one
shared
left-‐turn/through/right-‐
turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
Avenue
52/Avenida
Bermudas
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
shared
left-‐turn/through,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
§ Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
CIRCULATION
II-‐93
§ Westbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
Adams
Street/Fred
Waring
Drive
–
§ Northbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
one
through
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
Adams
Street/Miles
Avenue
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
Adams
Street/Highway
111
–
§ Northbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
§ Eastbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane
Adams
Street/Avenue
48
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
shared
left-‐turn/through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
left-‐
turn/through
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
CIRCULATION
II-‐94
Dune
Palms
Road/Fred
Waring
Drive
–
§ Northbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
two
through
lanes,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
three
through
lanes
Dune
Palms
Road/Miles
Avenue
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
Dune
Palms
Road/Westward
Ho
Drive
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
§ Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
Dune
Palms
Road/Highway
111
–
§ Northbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
Dune
Palms
Road/Avenue
48
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
shared
left-‐turn/through/right-‐
turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
CIRCULATION
II-‐95
§ Eastbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
Jefferson
Street/Fred
Waring
Drive
–
§ Northbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
§ Westbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
Jefferson
Street/Highway
111
–
§ Northbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
four
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
§ Southbound
approach:
three
left-‐turn
lanes,
four
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
§ Eastbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
§ Westbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
Jefferson
Street/Avenue
48
–
§ Northbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
§ Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
Jefferson
Street/Avenue
49
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
CIRCULATION
II-‐96
Jefferson
Street/Avenue
50
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
Jefferson
Street/Avenue
52
–
§ Three-‐lane
roundabout
or
signalized
intersection
or
replace
with
a
traditional
signalized
intersection
of
:
o Northbound
approach
of
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
and
one
right-‐turn
lane;
o Southbound
approach
of
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
and
one
right-‐turn
lane;
o Eastbound
approach
of
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
and
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase;
and
o Westbound
approach
of
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
and
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase.
Jefferson
Street/Avenue
54
–
§ Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane
§ Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
two
right-‐turn
lanes
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
§ Alternatively,
construct
a
two-‐lane
roundabout
(will
require
further
detailed
analysis)
Madison
Street/Avenue
50
–
§ Construct
a
two-‐lane
roundabout
(will
require
further
detailed
analysis);
or
construct
a
signalized
intersection
with
the
following
improvements:
o Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
CIRCULATION
II-‐97
o Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
o Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
o Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
Madison
Street/Avenue
52
–
§ Construct
a
two-‐lane
roundabout
(will
require
further
detailed
analysis);
or
construct
a
signalized
intersection
with
the
following
improvements:
o Northbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
o Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
o Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
o Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
Madison
Street/Avenue
54
–
§ Construct
a
two-‐lane
roundabout
(will
require
further
detailed
analysis);
or
construct
a
signalized
intersection
with
the
following
improvements:
o Northbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
o Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
combined
through/right-‐turn
lane
o Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
o Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
Madison
Street/Avenue
58
–
§ Construct
a
two-‐lane
roundabout
(will
require
further
detailed
analysis);
or
construct
a
signalized
intersection
with
the
following
improvements:
o Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
o Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
o Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
CIRCULATION
II-‐98
o Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
Madison
Street/Avenue
60
–
§ Construct
a
two-‐lane
roundabout
(will
require
further
detailed
analysis);
or
construct
a
signalized
intersection
with
the
following
improvements:
o Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
o Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
o Eastbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
o Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
Monroe
Street/Avenue
52
–
§ Construct
a
two-‐lane
roundabout
(will
require
further
detailed
analysis);
or
construct
a
signalized
intersection
with
the
following
improvements:
o Northbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
o Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
o Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
o Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
Monroe
Street/Avenue
54
–
§ Construct
a
two-‐lane
roundabout
(will
require
further
detailed
analysis);
or
construct
a
signalized
intersection
with
the
following
improvements:
o Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
three
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
o Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
o Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
o Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
CIRCULATION
II-‐99
Monroe
Street/Avenue
58
–
§ Construct
a
two-‐lane
roundabout
(will
require
further
detailed
analysis);
or
construct
a
signalized
intersection
with
the
following
improvements:
o Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
two
through
lanes,
one
right-‐turn
lane
o Southbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
o Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
o Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
Monroe
Street/Avenue
60
–
§ Construct
a
two-‐lane
roundabout
(will
require
further
detailed
analysis);
or
construct
a
signalized
intersection
with
the
following
improvements:
o Northbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
o Southbound
approach:
two
left-‐turn
lanes,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
o Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
o Westbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
through
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
Monroe
Street/Avenue
62
–
§ Construct
a
two-‐lane
roundabout
(will
require
further
detailed
analysis);
or
construct
a
signalized
intersection
with
the
following
improvements:
o Northbound
approach:
one
shared
left-‐
turn/through/right-‐turn
lane
o Southbound
approach:
one
shared
left-‐turn/through
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane
o Eastbound
approach:
one
left-‐turn
lane,
one
shared
through/right-‐turn
lane
o Westbound
approach:
one
shared
left-‐turn/through
lane,
one
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
Exhibit
II-‐11
illustrates
the
various
intersection
geometries
that
would
result
as
a
consequence
of
implementing
the
intersection
improvement
recommendations.
Not
all
of
these
improvements
appear
to
be
feasible
due
to
the
lack
of
available
right-‐of-‐way,
shared
CIRCULATION
II-‐100
jurisdiction
of
certain
intersections
with
other
jurisdictions
and
other
constraints.
Table
II-‐11
summarizes
intersection
operating
conditions
in
2035
with
General
Plan
buildout
and
the
implementation
of
the
recommended
intersection
enhancements.
The
levels
of
service
projected
in
Table
II-‐11
reflect
the
needed
improvements,
which
would
improve
2035
operating
conditions
at
these
intersections
to
LOS
D
or
better.
Exhibit
II-‐11
illustrates
the
various
intersection
geometries
that
would
result
as
a
consequence
of
implementing
the
intersection
improvement
recommendations.
Not
all
of
these
improvements
appear
to
be
feasible
due
to
the
lack
of
available
right
of
way,
shared
jurisdiction
of
certain
intersections
and
other
constraints.
It
should
again
be
noted
that
first
consideration
is
to
be
given
to
roundabouts
at
several
intersections
in
the
southeastern
planning
area,
followed
by
conventional
signalized
intersections
where
roundabouts
are
determined
to
be
infeasible.
CIRCULATION
II-‐102
PAGE
NUMBER
SPACER
-‐
PULL
FROM
DOC
CIRCULATION
II-‐103
Table
II-‐11
2035
Peak
Season
Intersection
Operating
Conditions
General
Plan
Roadway
Network
With
Enhancements
Intersection
Traffic
Control
AM
Peak
Hour
PM
Peak
Hour
LOS
Delay
(Sec)
V/C
LOS
Delay
(Sec)
V/C
1.
Washington
St
&
Fred
Waring
Dr
Signal
D
37.3
0.820
D
54.2
1.018
2.
Washington
St
&
Miles
Ave
Signal
C
25.5
0.724
D
40.8
0.970
3.
Washington
St
&
Channel
Dr
Signal
B
13.1
0.591
C
24.3
0.886
4.
Washington
St
&
Hwy
111
Signal
D
41.5
0.911
D
52.5
1.018
5.
Washington
St
&
Ave
48
Signal
D
38.9
1.033
D
46.9
1.030
6.
Washington
St
&
Eisenhower
Dr1
Signal
C
28.3
0.771
C
31.4
0.819
7.
Washington
St
&
Ave
50
Signal
C
23.3
0.590
C
33.8
0.891
8.
Washington
St
&
Calle
Tampico2
Signal
C
20.4
0.492
C
24.2
0.481
9.
Washington
St
&
Ave
52
Signal
C
31.8
0.800
C
25.3
0.769
10.
Eisenhower
Dr
&
Calle
Tampico
Signal
C
23.1
0.361
C
24.6
0.438
11.
Avenida
Bermudas
&
Ave
52
Signal
C
27.2
0.707
C
26.5
0.238
12.
Adams
St
&
Fred
Waring
Dr
Signal
C
31.9
0.851
D
37.0
0.889
13.
Adams
St
&
Miles
Ave
Signal
C
34.7
0.764
D
46.6
0.938
14.
Adams
St
&
Hwy
111
Signal
C
32.8
0.683
D
35.8
0.877
15.
Adams
St
&
Ave
48
Signal
D
38.6
0.818
D
54.0
0.942
16.
Dune
Palms
Rd
&
Fred
Waring
Dr
Signal
B
19.3
0.666
C
30.3
0.879
17.
Dune
Palms
Rd
&
Miles
Ave
Signal
D
36.3
0.709
D
50.8
0.945
18.
Dune
Palms
Rd
&
Westward
Ho
Dr
Signal
C
32.5
0.758
D
43.5
0.938
19.
Dune
Palms
Rd
&
Hwy
111
Signal
C
32.4
0.610
D
41.1
0.903
20.
Dune
Palms
Rd
&
Ave
48
Signal
C
25.3
0.590
C
31.2
0.770
21.
Jefferson
St
&
Fred
Waring
Dr
Signal
D
36.9
0.831
D
44.9
0.963
22.
Jefferson
St
&
Hwy
111
Signal
C
32.1
0.695
D
53.8
1.033
23.
Jefferson
St
&
Ave
48
Signal
D
40.4
0.909
D
46.2
0.974
24.
Jefferson
St
&
Ave
49
Signal
B
17.7
0.656
B
16.9
0.678
25.
Jefferson
St
&
Ave
50
Signal
C
33.9
0.753
D
43.4
0.923
26.
Jefferson
St
&
Ave
52
Roundabout
A
3.0
-‐
A
3.4
-‐
27.
Jefferson
St
&
Ave
54
New
Signal3
B
15.3
0.650
B
15.4
0.645
28.
Madison
St
&
Ave
50
New
Signal3
D
38.2
0.874
D
51.4
0.998
29.
Madison
St
&
Ave
52
New
Signal3
D
39.8
0.883
D
54.5
0.986
30.
Madison
St
&
Ave
54
New
Signal3
D
38.2
0.818
D
52.7
0.965
31.
Madison
St
&
Ave
58
New
Signal3
C
24.7
0.581
D
52.6
1.007
32.
Madison
St
&
Ave
60
New
Signal3
D
51.8
0.975
D
38.7
0.829
33.
Monroe
St
&
Ave
52
New
Signal3
C
33.9
0.722
D
53.7
1.023
34.
Monroe
St
&
Ave
54
New
Signal3
C
30.2
0.696
D
44.8
0.930
35.
Monroe
St
&
Ave
58
New
Signal3
C
34.9
0.735
D
46.6
0.933
36.
Monroe
St
&
Ave
60
New
Signal3
C
30.7
0.544
D
43.3
0.884
37.
Monroe
St
&
Ave
62
New
Signal3
B
10.3
0.289
B
13.5
0.490
Notes:
BOLD
indicates
unsatisfactory
level
of
service.
LOS
=
Level
of
Service,
Delay
=
Average
Vehicle
Delay
(Seconds),
V/C
=
Volume-‐to-‐Capacity
Ratio.
1
=
Calculation
based
on
implementation
of
a
second
southbound
right-‐turn
lane
(per
2011
CIP).
2
=
Calculation
based
on
implementation
of
a
third
eastbound
left-‐turn
lane
(per
2011
CIP)
3
=
2035
Conditions
assume
signalization
of
existing
lanes
CIRCULATION
II-‐104
Of
the
37
intersections
analyzed,
the
following
four
have
the
potential
to
be
operating
at
unacceptable
levels
of
service
by
2035
General
Plan
buildout:
Washington
Street/Fred
Waring
Drive;
Adams
Street/Miles
Avenue;
Jefferson
Street/Highway
111;
Madison
Street/Avenue
50.
The
analysis
indicated
that
General
Plan
buildout
will
require
enhanced
improvements
and/or
management
strategies
(beyond
those
set
forth
in
the
2002
General
Plan)
to
be
implemented
at
23
intersections
in
order
to
provide
traffic
operations
at
acceptable
peak
period
Levels
of
Service
(LOS
D
or
better)
during
the
peak
season.
Some
of
the
identified
improvements
are
in
adjacent
cities,
and
others
may
impact
adjacent
land
uses.
Special
Intersection
Management
Provisions
As
noted
in
the
General
Plan
Traffic
Impact
Analysis
(TIA)
and
this
Circulation
Element,
not
all
of
the
intersection
improvements
recommended
in
the
TIA
may
be
possible
to
implement.
These
constrained
intersections
have
been
identified
above,
and
recommendations
for
further
enhancing
the
operation
of
these
intersections
by
other
means
is
described
below.
The
intersection
improvements
necessary
to
provide
acceptable
LOS
upon
buildout
of
the
preferred
General
Plan
were
detailed
above.
Some
of
the
potential
improvements
would
affect
and
require
the
cooperation
of
neighboring
cities.
In
some
instances,
needed
improvements
could
affect
existing
buildings
and
other
structures,
and
may
not
be
feasible.
In
addition,
some
recommendations
from
the
Washington
Street/Highway
111
Transportation
Systems
Management
(TSM)/Transportation
Demand
Management
(TDM)
Corridor
Study
(VRPA,
September
2009)
are
also
considered.
Special
considerations
for
constrained
intersections
are
as
follows:
Washington
Street/Fred
Waring
Drive
–
Two
approaches
to
achieving
acceptable
intersection
operations
may
be
combinations
of
1)
street
widening,
and
2)
TSM/TDM
measures.
The
application
of
TSM/TDM
will
depend
on
the
extent
of
widening
that
is
determined
to
be
feasible,
as
presented
below:
CIRCULATION
II-‐105
a. Intersection
widening
1. City
of
La
Quinta
jurisdiction
widening
could
add
a
third
northbound
left-‐turn
lane
and
a
fourth
northbound
through
lane.
This
would
improve
AM
peak
hour
conditions
to
LOS
E.
The
PM
peak
hour
conditions
would
remain
at
LOS
F
but
the
average
intersection
delay
would
be
reduced
by
38
seconds
per
signal
cycle.
2. Coordinate
with
the
City
of
Palm
Desert
to
consider
the
potential
for
improvements
in
the
northwest
intersection
quadrant,
specifically
the
adding
of
a
fourth
southbound
through
lane,
a
fourth
westbound
through
lane,
and
a
westbound
right-‐turn
overlap
phase.
With
construction
of
these
added
to
the
widening
proposed
in
the
City
of
La
Quinta,
PM
peak
hour
conditions
would
remain
at
LOS
F
but
the
average
intersection
delay
would
be
reduced
by
an
additional
20
seconds.
The
City
of
Palm
Desert
General
Plan
(2004)
does
not
call
for
these
improvements,
but
does
call
for
consideration
of
a
third
northbound
left-‐turn
lane
in
the
City
of
Indian
Wells,
which
is
consistent
with
improvements
in
the
City
of
La
Quinta
identified
above.
The
City
of
Palm
Desert
should
be
encouraged
to
continue
to
coordinate
with
the
City
of
Indian
Wells
for
construction
of
an
eastbound
free-‐right
turn
lane.
3. Coordinate
with
the
City
of
Indian
Wells
to
consider
improvements
in
the
southwest
intersection
quadrant,
specifically
the
adding
of
a
fourth
eastbound
through
lane
and
a
second
eastbound
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase.
With
construction
of
the
two
City
of
Indian
Wells
improvement-‐impacting
lanes,
but
not
assuming
improvements
in
the
City
of
Palm
Desert,
PM
peak
hour
conditions
would
remain
at
LOS
F
but
the
average
intersection
delay
would
be
reduced
by
an
additional
26
seconds.
4. If
the
recommended
improvements
in
the
Cities
of
La
Quinta,
Palm
Desert,
and
Indian
Wells
are
all
implemented,
the
PM
peak
hour
conditions
would
be
improved
to
LOS
D
operations.
b.
Implement
TSM/TDM
measures
for
trip
rerouting,
in
addition
to
some
of
the
above
listed
improvements
that
are
determined
feasible.
CIRCULATION
II-‐106
1. Design
and
implement
an
Intelligent
Transportation
Systems
(ITS)
Master
Plan
in
coordination
with
the
cities
of
Palm
Desert
and
Indian
Wells,
and
in
coordination
with
the
Indian
Wells
Tennis
Event
Center.
An
ITS
Plan
would
enable
dynamic
route
reassignment
of
traffic
around
congestion
and
direct
traffic
to
available
parking
through
the
use
of
Dynamic
Message
Signs
and
adaptive
traffic
signal
control.
The
Plan
would
deliver
the
best
access
to
events
for
attendees,
and
around
event
traffic
for
residents
that
are
not
attending
the
events.
c.
Striving
to
achieve
acceptable
levels
of
service,
the
following
efforts
are
recommended.
1. To
achieve
non-‐event
LOS
E
operations,
and
to
minimize
the
level
of
impacts
experienced
at
nearby
intersections,
approximately
200
northbound
left-‐turning
vehicles
would
need
to
be
diverted,
approximately
100
southbound
left-‐turning
vehicles
would
need
to
be
diverted,
and
approximately
100
southbound
through
movement
vehicles
would
need
to
be
diverted.
Assuming
these
trip
diversions,
the
necessary
roadway
widening
improvements
would
be
reduced
to
the
addition
of
the
third
northbound
left-‐turn
lane
(City
of
La
Quinta),
the
second
eastbound
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
(City
of
Indian
Wells),
and
a
fourth
westbound
through
lane
(Cities
of
La
Quinta
and
Palm
Desert).
Therefore,
the
4th
northbound
through
lane,
4th
southbound
through
lane,
4th
eastbound
through
lane,
and
westbound
right-‐turn
overlap
phase,
recommended
previously,
would
no
longer
be
necessary.
2. In
order
to
achieve
non-‐event
LOS
D
operations,
assuming
the
same
approximate
ranges
of
trip
diversion
shown
above,
the
addition
of
the
fourth
eastbound
through
lane,
the
westbound
right-‐turn
overlap
phase,
and
third
eastbound
left-‐turn
lane
would
be
required.
Therefore,
the
4th
northbound
through
lane
and
4th
southbound
through
lane,
recommended
previously,
would
continue
to
no
longer
be
necessary.
Adams
Street/Miles
Avenue
–
Add
a
dedicated
westbound
right-‐turn
lane,
converting
the
number
two
through
lane
to
a
through
only
lane.
Implementation
of
this
improvement
alone
will
only
achieve
LOS
E
operations
in
the
PM
peak
hour.
CIRCULATION
II-‐107
Consider
adding
a
dedicated
northbound
right-‐turn
lane,
converting
the
number
two
through
lane
to
a
through
only
lane
order
to
achieve
LOS
D
operations.
This
could
impact
three
to
four
residential
property
side
yards
and
require
relocation
of
power
poles.
Jefferson
Street/Highway
111
–
Coordinate
with
the
City
of
Indio
in
optimizing
future
intersection
improvements.
To
the
greatest
extent
practicable,
add
a
fourth
northbound
through
lane.
Add
a
fourth
southbound
through
lane.
Add
a
third
southbound
left-‐turn
lane.
While
the
prescribed
third
southbound
left-‐turn
lane
may
be
feasible,
the
fourth
north
and
southbound
through
lanes
does
not
appear
to
be.
Intersection
operations
will
benefit
from
TSM
programs
and
overall
TDM
efforts.
Without
additional
through
lanes
or
management
efforts,
intersection
projected
to
operate
at
lower
portion
of
LOS
F
in
the
PM
peak
hour
in
2035.
Madison
Street/Avenue
50
–
Add
a
third
northbound
through
lane
and
a
dedicated
right-‐turn
lane,
converting
the
new
number
three
through
lane
to
a
through
only
lane.
Add
a
dedicated
southbound
right-‐turn
lane,
converting
the
new
number
two
through
lanes
to
a
through
only
lane.
Add
a
westbound
dedicated
right-‐turn
lane
with
a
right-‐turn
overlap
phase,
converting
the
new
number
two
through
lane
to
a
through
only
lane.
Management
prescriptions
include
coordinating
with
the
City
of
Indio
to
signalize
intersection.
It
should
be
noted
that
the
City
of
Indio
plans
to
maintain
the
planned
four
lane
roadway
segment
on
Madison
Street
between
Avenue
50
and
48.
Therefore,
further
analysis
and
the
application
of
TDM
and
TSM
strategies
are
warranted.
Additional
Intersection-‐Specific
Improvement
Strategies
In
addition
to
the
four
constrained
intersections
identified
and
discussed
above,
which
have
the
potential
to
operate
at
less
than
acceptable
levels
of
service,
other
intersections
discussed
below
also
warrant
special
attention
and
management
prescriptions.
Washington
Street/Miles
Avenue
–
Add
a
dedicated
westbound
right-‐
turn
lane,
converting
the
number
two
through
lane
to
a
through
lane
only.
Add
a
westbound
right-‐turn
overlap
phase.
Add
a
second
southbound
left-‐turn
lane
that
may
entail
minor
coordination
with
the
City
of
Indian
Wells
in
the
northwest
intersection
quadrant
to
secure
adequate
rights-‐of-‐way.
Without
construction
of
the
second
southbound
left-‐turn,
the
intersection
is
forecast
to
operate
at
LOS
E
in
the
PM
peak
hour.
CIRCULATION
II-‐108
Washington
Street/Avenue
50
–
Add
a
dedicated
northbound
right-‐
turn
lane,
converting
the
number
three
through
lane
to
a
through
only
lane.
Maintain
a
second
westbound
left-‐turn
lane
(CIP
improvement)
by
converting
the
number
2
westbound
through
lane
to
a
through/right-‐turn
lane
Add
a
second
westbound
right
turn
lane,
and
a
westbound
right-‐turn
overlap
phase
(RTO
implemented
in
2011).
Lengthen
the
existing
eastbound
single
left-‐turn
pocket
from
the
existing
130-‐feet
to
the
maximum
effective
length
of
300-‐
feet,
or
alternatively
add
a
second
eastbound
left-‐turn
lane.
Some
ultimate
skewing
of
the
intersection
may
occur
due
to
limited
access
to
additional
right-‐of-‐way
in
the
northeast
quadrant
of
the
intersection.
Monroe
Street/Avenue
52
-‐
Management
prescriptions
include
coordinating
with
the
City
of
Indio
to
assure
adequate
rights-‐of-‐way
and
signalize
intersection.
Monroe
Street/Avenue
54
–
Signalize
intersection.
Prescribed
improvements
include
adding
a
third
northbound
through
lane
and
a
dedicated
northbound
right-‐turn
lane.
Management
prescriptions
include
coordinating
with
the
City
of
Indio
to
assure
adequate
rights-‐
of-‐way
and
signalize
intersection.
Monroe
Street/Avenue
58
–
Construct
a
two-‐lane
roundabout
with
two
feeder
lanes,
OR
signalize
intersection:
Add
a
dedicated
northbound
right-‐turn
lane
converting
the
number
two
through
lane
to
a
through
only
lane.
Add
a
second
westbound
left-‐turn
lane.
Management
prescriptions
include
coordinating
with
Riverside
County
to
assure
adequate
rights-‐of-‐way
and
signalize
intersection.
Monroe
Street/Avenue
60
-‐-‐
Construct
a
two-‐lane
roundabout;
OR
construct
a
traditional
signalized
intersection.
Management
prescriptions
include
coordinating
with
Riverside
County
to
assure
adequate
rights-‐of-‐way
and
signalize
intersection.
Monroe
Street/Avenue
62
Construct
a
two-‐lane
roundabout;
OR
construct
a
traditional
signalized
intersection.
Management
prescriptions
include
coordinating
with
Riverside
County
to
assure
adequate
rights-‐of-‐way
and
signalize
intersection.
CIRCULATION
II-‐109
General
Plan
Buildout
Roadway
Segments
Operating
Conditions
With
General
Plan
Enhancements
The
General
Plan
traffic
analysis
also
identified
roadway
segments
that
may
not
operate
at
acceptable
levels
of
service
upon
buildout
of
the
General
Plan.
The
following
table
identifies
all
of
the
major
roadway
segments
that
were
analyzed,
and
projected
levels
of
service.
The
table
also
indicates
what
modes
other
than
automobiles
are
to
be
supported.
Table
II-‐12
2035
Peak
Season
Roadway
Segment
Operating
Conditions
General
Plan
Roadway
Network
With
Enhancements
Roadway
Link
2035
ADT
Roadway
Designation
2035
Number
of
Lanes
2035
Capacity
2035
V/C
Ratio
-‐
LOS
Washington
St
Ave
42
to
Fred
Waring
Dr
58,241
Major
6
61,100
0.95
–
E
Fred
Waring
Dr
to
Miles
Ave
64,210
Major
6
61,100
1.05
–
F
Miles
Ave
to
Hwy
111
54,141
Major
6
61,100
0.89
–
D
Hwy
111
to
Ave
48
57,955
Major
6
61,100
0.95
–
E
Ave
48
to
Eisenhower
Dr
58,267
Major
6
61,100
0.95
–
E
Eisenhower
Dr
to
Ave
50
41,381
Major
6
61,100
0.68
–
B
Ave
50
to
Calle
Tampico
36,164
Major
6
61,100
0.59
–
A
Eisenhower
Dr
Washington
St
to
Ave
50
21,435
Primary
4
42,600
0.50
–
A
Avenue
50
to
Calle
Tampico
15,291
Primary
4
42,600
0.36
–
A
Avenida
Bermudas
Calle
Tampico
to
Ave
52
3,919
Secondary
4
28,000
0.14
–
A
Ave
52
to
Calle
Durango
10,836
Secondary
4
28,000
0.39
–
A
Adams
St
Westward
Ho
Dr
to
Hwy
111
21,347
Secondary
4
42,600
0.50
–
A
Hwy
111
to
Ave
48
22,132
Secondary
4
42,600
0.52
–
A
Dune
Palms
Rd
Westward
Ho
Dr
to
Hwy
111
16,547
Secondary
4
28,000
0.59
–
A
Hwy
111
to
Ave
48
20,999
Secondary
4
28,000
0.75
–
C
CIRCULATION
II-‐110
Table
II-‐12
(cont’d)
2035
Peak
Season
Roadway
Segment
Operating
Conditions
General
Plan
Roadway
Network
With
Enhancements
Roadway
Link
2035
ADT
Roadway
Designation
2035
Number
of
Lanes
2035
Capacity
2035
V/C
Ratio
-‐
LOS
Jefferson
St
Country
Club
Rd
to
Fred
Waring
Dr
34,274
Major
6
61,100
0.56
–
A
Fred
Waring
Dr
to
Miles
Ave
44,436
Major
6
61,100
0.73
–
C
Westward
Ho
Dr
to
Hwy
111
48,090
Major
6
61,100
0.79
–
C
Hwy
111
to
Ave
48
46,656
Major
6
61,100
0.76
–
C
Ave
48
to
Ave
50
53,649
Major
6
61,100
0.88
–
D
Ave
50
to
Ave
52
35,143
Major
6
61,100
0.58
–
A
Ave
52
to
Ave
54
31,532
Major
6
61,100
0.52
–
A
Madison
St
Ave
50
to
Ave
52
34,204
Primary
4
42,600
0.80
–
C
Ave
54
to
Airport
Blvd
47,529
Primary
4
42,600
1.12
–
F
Airport
Blvd
to
Ave
58
35,638
Primary
4
42,600
0.84
–
D
Ave
58
to
Ave
60
26,920
Secondary
4
42,600
0.63
–
B
Monroe
St
Ave
52
to
Ave
54
32,749
Primary
4
42,600
0.77
–
C
Ave
54
to
Airport
Blvd
34,453
Primary
4
42,600
0.81
–
D
Jackson
St
Ave
54
to
Airport
Blvd
28,524
Primary
4
42,600
0.67
–
B
Airport
Blvd
to
Ave
58
28,380
Primary
4
42,600
0.67
–
B
Ave
58
to
Ave
60
23,174
Primary
4
42,600
0.54
–
A
Ave
60
to
Ave
62
16,826
Primary
4
42,600
0.39
–
A
Van
Buren
St
Ave
52
to
Ave
54
28,531
Primary
4
42,600
0.67
–
B
Ave
54
to
Airport
Blvd
22,172
Primary
4
42,600
0.52
–
A
Airport
Blvd
to
Ave
58
21,641
Primary
4
42,600
0.51
–
A
Ave
58
to
Ave
60
20,134
Primary
4
42,600
0.47
–
A
Ave
60
to
Ave
62
11,627
Secondary
4
28,000
0.42
–
A
Harrison
St
Airport
Blvd
to
Ave
58
79,828
Augmented
Major
8
76,000
1.05
–
F
Fred
Waring
Dr
(Ave
44)
Washington
St
to
Adams
St
52,881
Primary
6
61,100
0.87
–
D
Miles
Ave
Washington
St
to
Adams
St
15,151
Primary
4
42,600
0.36
–
A
CIRCULATION
II-‐111
Table
II-‐12
(cont’d)
2035
Peak
Season
Roadway
Segment
Operating
Conditions
General
Plan
Roadway
Network
With
Enhancements
Roadway
Link
2035
ADT
Roadway
Designati
on
2035
Number
of
Lanes
2035
Capacity
2035
V/C
Ratio
-‐
LOS
Hwy
111
Washington
St
to
Adams
St
53,511
Major
6
61,100
0.88
-‐
D
Adams
St
to
Dune
Palms
Rd
40,481
Major
6
61,100
0.66
–
B
Dune
Palms
Rd
to
Jefferson
St
50,659
Major
6
61,100
0.83
–
D
Ave
48
Washington
St
to
Adams
St
16,902
Primary
4
42,600
0.40
–
A
Dune
Palms
Rd
to
Jefferson
St
32,855
Primary
4
42,600
0.77
–
C
Ave
50
Washington
St
to
Jefferson
St
16,121
Primary
4
42,600
0.38
–
A
Jefferson
St
to
Madison
St
30,593
Primary
4
42,600
0.72
–
C
Calle
Tampico
Eisenhower
Dr
to
Avenida
Bermudas
5,350
Primary
4
42,600
0.13
–
A
Avenida
Bermudas
to
Washington
St
10,063
Primary
4
42,600
0.24
–
A
Ave
52
Avenida
Bermudas
to
Washington
St
16,133
Primary
4
42,600
0.38
–
A
Washington
St
to
Jefferson
St
31,770
Primary
4
42,600
0.75
–
C
Jefferson
St
to
Madison
St
28,944
Primary
4
42,600
0.68
–
B
Madison
St
to
Monroe
St
26,510
Primary
4
42,600
0.62
–
B
Ave
54
Jefferson
St
to
Madison
St
29,390
Primary
4
42,600
0.69
–
C
Airport
Blvd
Madison
St
to
Monroe
St
17,177
Primary
4
42,600
0.40
–
A
Ave
58
Madison
St
to
Monroe
St
10,199
Secondary
4
28,000
0.36
–
A
Monroe
St
to
Jackson
St
18,633
Secondary
2
28,000
0.67
–
B
Ave
60
Madison
St
to
Monroe
St
14,846
Secondary
4
28,000
0.53
–
A
Monroe
St
to
Jackson
St
9,960
Primary
4
42,600
0.23
–
A
Ave
62
Madison
St
to
Monroe
St
9,624
Modified
Collector
4
28,000
0.34
–
A
Monroe
St
to
Jackson
St
19,822
Secondary
4
28,000
0.71
–
C
Jackson
St
to
Van
Buren
St
7,022
Secondary
4
28,000
0.25
–
A
Van
Buren
St
to
Harrison
St
3,631
Secondary
4
28,000
0.13
–
A
Notes:
V/C
=
Volume-‐to=Capacity
Ratio
CIRCULATION
II-‐112
Special
Segment
Management
Provisions
While
the
majority
of
the
roadway
segments
are
forecast
to
operate
acceptably
(V/C
ratios
less
than
or
equal
to
0.90
or
LOS
D
or
better),
21
segments
are
forecast
to
operate
at
LOS
E
or
worse
based
on
their
current
roadway
classifications.
Ongoing
and
diligent
focus
on
well-‐
coordinated
operations
of
traffic
signals
will
help
maximize
efficient
circulation
along
these
segments.
Maximum
roadway
carrying
capacities
(or
“service
volumes”)
can
be
increased
with
more
uniform
travel
speeds
and
less
slowing
and
stopping
at
red
lights.
This
is
best
accomplished
with
implementation
of
an
Intelligent
Transportation
Systems
master
plan.
The
following
recommendation
should
be
implemented
to
increase
roadway
capacity
without
the
addition
of
travel
lanes
along
segments
operating
unacceptably:
1. Commit
to
ongoing
funding
and
operations
of
intelligent
transportation
systems
management,
as
described
above,
to:
a. Deliver
traffic
signal
coordination
along
corridors
in
“real
time”
to
optimize
the
progression
of
vehicles
at
the
most
efficient
travel
speeds;
b. Operate
Transit
Signal
Priority
at
signals
along
major
transit
routes
to
optimize
traffic
flow;
c. Operate
Dynamic
Message
Signs
to
route
traffic
around
congestion/to
available
parking
during
peak
periods
and
planned
events.
2. Continue
with
the
City’s
established
minimum
driveway
spacing
and
access
restrictions;
3. Construct
median
islands
with
minimum
opening
spacing;
and/or;
4. Add
bus
turnouts
at
bus
stops
along
major
transit
routes.
Recommended
Transportation
System
Enhancements
The
General
Plan
buildout
analysis
of
the
City’s
transportation
system
has
identified
four
(4)
intersections
and
six
(6)
roadway
segments
where
maintaining
acceptable
levels
of
service
(LOS
D
or
better)
in
the
long-‐term
will
require
special
effort.
The
buildout
of
the
General
Plan
will
require
a
variety
of
improvements
to
be
implemented
to
assure
that
they
operate
at
LOS
D
or
better.
Some
of
the
identified
improvements
are
in
adjacent
cities,
and
others
may
impact
adjacent
land
uses.
Recommended
intersection
improvements
and
management
strategies
are
detailed
below.
Of
the
63
midblock
segments
analyzed
for
average
daily
operations,
three
are
forecast
at
LOS
E
and
three
are
forecast
at
LOS
F
operations.
Opportunities
to
improve
efficiency
of
General
Plan
designated
intersections
and
travel
lanes
are
detailed
in
the
section
below.
CIRCULATION
II-‐113
Recommendations
for
Roadway
Segment
Enhancements
Intersection
capacity
on
arterial
roadways
is
significantly
influenced
by
intersection
design
and
whether
they
are
signalized.
Intersections
are
the
ultimate
arbiters
of
roadway
capacity,
being
generally
the
most
constraining
and
defining
portions
of
roadway
network.
Where
the
recommended
intersection
configurations
and
improvements
can
be
provided,
the
midblock
capacities
will
be
increased
and
midblock
LOS
improved.
A
few
roadway
segments
along
Washington
Street,
Madison
Street
and
Harrison
Street
are
projected
to
operate
at
LOS
E
or
F
during
AM
or
PM
peak
periods
by
2035.
These
segments,
and
management
strategies
to
reduce
demand
and
improve
their
operating
capacity,
are
discussed
below.
Washington
Street
Roadway
Segment
Deficiencies:
Washington
Street
segments
extending
from
Avenue
42
to
Eisenhower
Drive,
are
projected
to
operate
at
LOS
E
or
F
by
2035
without
further
demand
or
systems
management
efforts.
The
one
exception
is
the
segment
between
Miles
Avenue
and
Highway
111,
which
is
projected
to
operate
at
LOS
D
in
2035.
Madison
Street
Roadway
Segment
Deficiency:
The
General
Plan
traffic
analysis
identified
a
segment
deficiency
on
Madison
Street
between
Airport
Boulevard
(Ave
56)
and
Avenue
54.
While
application
of
TDM
and
TSM
strategies
will
effectively
reduce
peak
hour
traffic
volumes
along
this
segment,
it
may
still
operate
at
unacceptable
levels
of
service
(LOS
E
or
F)
during
peak
hour
upon
General
Plan
buildout.
Harrison
Street
Roadway
Segment
Deficiency:
Harrison
Street
between
Airport
Boulevard
(Ave
56)
and
Avenue
58
as
a
8-‐lane
Augmented
Major
is
forecast
to
exceed
theoretical
maximum
carrying
capacity
by
approximately
3,800
vpd.
Harrison
Street
is
assumed
to
function
as
an
Augmented
Major
Road
(76,000
vehicles
per
day),
and
would
likely
operate
as
an
Expressway
due
to
limited
accessibility.
While
application
of
TDM
and
TSM
strategies
will
effectively
reduce
peak
hour
traffic
volumes
along
this
segment,
it
may
still
operate
at
unacceptable
levels
of
service
(LOS
E
or
F)
during
peak
hour
upon
General
Plan
buildout.
CIRCULATION
II-‐115
Preserving
Capacity
and
Enhancing
Efficiency
Existing
infrastructure
investments
in
the
planning
areas
should
be
managed
and
maintain
to
support
the
full
spectrum
of
travel
modes.
Efficiencies
are
also
a
function
of
design
parameters
that
affect
facilitated
travel
speeds,
and
ease
of
movement
and
negotiation
of
roadways
and
intersections.
To
the
greatest
extent
practicable,
these
parameters
should
be
applied
to
the
benefit
of
all
modes
of
travel
and
not
just
to
trucks
and
autos.
The
following
discusses
what
considerations
should
be
made
to
assure
preserved
and
optimized
capacity.
Generally,
capacity
will
be
optimized
with
12-‐foot
travel
lanes,
12-‐foot
lateral
clearances
from
the
edge
of
the
traveled
lanes
to
obstructions
along
the
edge
of
the
road
and
in
the
median,
and
median
dividers.
The
number
of
access
points
(i.e.,
intersections,
driveways,
and
median
island
openings)
also
reduces
capacity
by
approximately
0.25
mph
for
each
access
point
per
mile.
Consideration
of
driveway
consolidation
and/or
access
restrictions
along
forecast
deficient
midblock
segments
is
recommended.
The
Complete
Streets
approach
should
give
first
priority
to
improving
transit
service
on
the
Washington
Street
and
Highway
111
corridors,
and
should
be
considered
for
other
high
volume
corridors,
to
provide
a
convenient
and
efficient
transit
service
as
a
preferable
alternative
to
automobile
use.
In
this
regard,
the
City
needs
to
establish
a
closer
coordination
and
working
relationship
with
the
Sunline
Transit
Agency
in
pursuing
implementation
of
the
following:
Develop
transit
preferential
management
and
facilities
to
establish
consistency
in
type
and
design.
Potential
management
and
facilities
include:
§ Traffic
signal
priority
for
buses;
and
§ Enhanced
bus
stops
and
amenities,
such
as
wider
sidewalks,
climate-‐responsive
shelters,
electronic
vehicle
arrival
information.
Make
convenient
transfers
between
transit
lines,
systems
and
modes
possible
by
establishing
common
or
closely
located
terminals
for
local
and
regional
transit
systems
and
by
coordinating
fares
and
schedules.
Improve
pedestrian,
bicycle,
and
golf
cart/NEV
access
to
preferred
destinations
and
transit
facilities.
Encourage
the
maintenance
and
efficient
operation
of
the
fleet
of
transit
vehicles.
CIRCULATION
II-‐116
Enhanced
and
coordinate
signal
operations
are
recommended
to
optimize
traffic
progression
along
all
corridors,
which
can
reduce
traffic
delays
on
major
roadways
by
5
to
10
percent.
Also
evaluate
and,
as
appropriate,
implement
Adaptive
Control
Software-‐Lite
(ACS-‐Lite)
to
continuously
improve
the
efficiency
of
traffic
signal
timing
by
updating
phase
splits
and
offsets
in
response
to
current
traffic
conditions.
These
improvements
in
efficiency
can
reduce
stops
and
delay
of
up
to
29%,
and
to
decrease
travel
time
by
up
to
35%.
Comprehensive
Transportation
System
Planning
The
primary
goal
of
a
comprehensive
transportation
system
is
to
lower
the
impacts
of
transportation
on
the
environment,
including
the
transportation
system
itself.
These
systems
include
efficient
infrastructure,
systems
management,
and
greater
use
of
alternative
modes
of
transportation
(walking,
cycling,
transit,
NEVs).
In
addition
to
making
a
substantial
contribution
to
improving
air
quality
and
reducing
emissions
of
GHGs,
a
comprehensive
transportation
system
can
also
result
in
broader
environmental
improvements
and
a
better
planned
community.
Transportation
systems
account
for
between
20
and
25
percent
of
the
world’s
energy
consumption,
but
roughly
50
percent
of
all
energy
consumption
and
about
38
percent
of
all
GHG
emissions
in
California.
The
social
costs
of
an
inefficient
transportation
system
also
include
time
wasted
in
traffic
and
vulnerability
to
fuel
price
increases.
Many
of
these
negative
impacts
fall
disproportionate
on
lower
income
social
groups.
Historically,
the
transportation
system
has
largely
been
designed
and
built
to
maximize
the
movement
of
private
vehicles.
The
La
Quinta
General
Plan
Circulation
Element
is
crafted
to
better
optimize
the
existing
roadway
network,
provide
alternative
modes
of
transportation
to
the
greatest
extent
practicable,
and
provide
future
facilities
that
reduce
vehicle
miles
traveled,
while
improving
the
quality
of
the
environment
and
the
community.
Comprehensive
transportation
planning
also
includes
the
implementation
of
“Complete
Streets”
concepts
and
designs
that
enable
safe
access
and
travel
for
all
users
–
pedestrians,
bicyclists,
motorists,
transit
users,
and
travelers
of
all
ages
and
abilities.
Ensuring
that
roads
provide
safe
mobility
for
all
travelers,
not
just
motor
vehicles,
is
at
the
heart
of
complete
streets.
Complete
Streets
is
discussed
in
detail
earlier
in
this
Element.
CIRCULATION
II-‐117
The
State
of
California
has
enactment
of
AB
32
and
SB
375,
which
set
new
standards
for
California'
emissions
of
GHGs.
SB
375
specifically
gives
our
regional
Metropolitan
Planning
Organization,
Southern
California
Association
of
Governments
(SCAG)
the
responsibility
to
work
with
CVAG,
the
City
and
other
local
jurisdictions
to
develop
a
regional
strategy
for
reducing
GHGs.
Best
practices
in
transportation
as
espoused
by
the
California
Air
Pollution
Control
Officers
Association
(CAPCOA),
have
been
drawn
upon
in
the
following
discussion.
The
role
of
transportation
in
these
efforts
is
expected
to
include:
Transportation
Infrastructure
Investment,
particularly
transit
and
other
multimodal
infrastructure
investment
that
may
impact
GHG
emissions;
Transportation
Planning
and
Demand
Management,
planning
and
programs
that
improve
efficiency
of
automobile
traffic
and
commercial
vehicles;
and
Transportation
System
Management
and
operational
policies
and
practices.
Specific
goals,
policies
and
programs
associated
with
comprehensive
transportation
systems
and
an
effective
response
to
AB
32
and
SB
375
are
set
forth
in
this
Element.
Electrifying
Transportation
Electric
vehicles
(EVs)
are
already
here.
La
Quinta
and
other
Valley
cities
and
residents
have
been
steadily
expanding
their
use
of
golf
carts
and
NEVs
for
a
wide
range
of
trips.
The
continuing
evolution
of
the
transportation
system
to
electric
drive
could
dramatically
change
the
economy,
our
demand
for
oil
and
the
quality
of
the
environment.
According
to
the
South
Coast
Air
Quality
Management
District,
in
2005
transportation
produced
about
76
percent
of
all
the
greenhouse
gasses
generated
in
the
Coachella
Valley.
This
makes
transportation
the
best
area
to
focus
efforts
to
address
GHG
emissions
as
mandated
by
State
legislation.
A
full
range
of
technologies
are
needed
to
effectively
transition
the
transportation
system
away
from
petroleum
and
toward
alternatives
such
as
hybrid
and
pure
electric
vehicles.
These
have
already
made
great
strides,
but
harnessing
them
on
a
scale
that
will
significantly
lower
greenhouse-‐gas
emissions
requires
choosing
the
right
policies
and
implementing
needed
infrastructure
improvements.
While
the
City
cannot
have
a
major
impact
on
this
transition,
it
can
incrementally
contribute
to
this
transition
and
provide
a
model
for
other
communities.
CIRCULATION
II-‐118
Enabling
technologies
are
evolving
that
will
modernize
the
electric
power
grid.
This
is
important
since
patterns
of
electricity
usage
could
change
significantly
if
the
recharging
of
electric
vehicles
grows
at
a
rapid
pace.
At
the
same
time,
the
batteries
in
electric
or
plug-‐in
hybrid
vehicles
could
be
used
as
an
extra
short-‐term
backup
system,
storing
energy
from
the
grid
when
there
is
an
excess
and
delivering
it
back
when
needed,
in
order
to
flatten
peaks
in
electricity
use.
This
could
eliminate
the
need
for
construction
of
some
new
power
plants,
but
only
if
changes
are
made
to
the
grid
infrastructure
to
enable
such
uses.
It
should
be
noted
that
the
US
Department
of
Energy
has
estimated
that
the
existing
power
grid
could
handle
up
to
180
million
electric
vehicles
without
needing
significant
modification.
The
sources
of
electric
power
are
also
a
part
of
the
equation
but
even
with
the
current
mix
of
generating
capacity,
electric
vehicles
emit
about
one
half
the
GHGs
as
conventional
vehicles.
There
has
been
a
rapid
evolution
in
electric
drivetrain,
hybrids,
plug-‐in
hybrids,
and
battery
technologies,
which
is
bringing
electric
vehicles
into
the
mainstream.
Many
communities
are
now
taking
steps
to
provide
the
infrastructure
that
will
make
electric
vehicles
more
viable.
Engineers
are
working
on
battery
technology
that
would
give
electric
vehicles
a
range
of
up
to
500
miles
on
a
single
charge.
Also,
work
being
done
on
hyper-‐capacitors,
which
would
replace
batteries
in
EVs
and
allow
unlimited
charging
and
discharging,
extending
the
life
of
vehicles
and
allowing
parked
cars
to
act
as
a
buffer
for
the
power
grid.
For
many
years,
the
City
of
La
Quinta
has
been
making
efforts
to
facilitate
the
use
of
plug-‐in
electric
vehicles,
specifically
golf
carts.
Many
City
residents
have
already
embraced
this
alternative
mode
of
transportation
and
this
trend
should
be
encouraged.
To
this
end,
the
General
Plan
includes
goals,
policies
and
programs
that
encourage
the
expansion
of
the
City’s
transportation
system
to
facilitate
the
use
of
electric
vehicles.
In
addition
to
expanding
routes
of
travel
suitable
for
EVs,
the
City
is
exploring
the
establishment
of
EV
recharge
stations
(parking
spaces)
in
the
village
and
other
areas
to
help
support
this
transition.
Preferential
parking
should
also
be
considered
to
further
encourage
this
transition.
Adaptive
Management
Strategies
It
is
essential
that
the
City
apply
a
policy
of
adaptive
management
to
various
components
of
the
City's
transportation
system.
By
having
the
flexibility
to
adapt
construction
and
Level
of
Service
(LOS)
standards
the
City
can
recognize
and
creatively
address
constraints
at
CIRCULATION
II-‐119
intersections
and
along
roadways.
Adaptability
will
also
serve
as
a
means
of
creating
streets
that
balance
all
modes
of
travel
pursuant
to
the
"Complete
Streets"
philosophy
espoused
in
this
element.
Future
improvements
to
major
streets
and
intersections
will
consider
design
solutions
that
support
walking,
bicycling,
golf
carts
and
NEVs,
and
provide
comfortable
public
spaces
while
continuing
to
function
as
thoroughfares
that
support
the
movement
of
vehicles.
Pedestrian
and
transit-‐oriented
development
is
encouraged
to
locate
along
key
commercial
corridors.
Level
of
Service
Exemption
In
the
long-‐term,
LOS
E
and
F
conditions
may
be
determined
to
be
acceptable
during
peak
travel
periods
of
the
day
along
key
intersections
and
along
certain
roadway
corridors,
including
Washington
Street,
Madison
Street
and
Harrison
Boulevard.
Along
these
constrained
portions
of
the
roadway
network,
on-‐going
planning
and
improvements,
as
well
as
the
application
of
TDM
and
TSM
measures,
shall
address
and
encourage
increased
Sunline
bus
service,
enhanced
pedestrian
and
bicycle
and
NEV
systems,
complementary
mix
of
land
uses,
and
higher-‐density
development.
When
project-‐specific
traffic
analysis
indicates
that
development
will
result
in
a
LOS
impact
that
would
otherwise
be
considered
significant
at
an
intersection
or
along
a
roadway
corridor,
the
project
would
not
necessarily
be
required
to
widen
roadways
in
order
to
support
a
finding
of
conformance
with
the
General
Plan.
Rather,
a
conformance
determination
could
be
supported
if
the
project
provides
improvements
to
the
overall
circulation
system
or
meets
other
General
Plan
objectives.
Such
improvements
may
include
enhancements
to
the
pedestrian,
bicycling,
NEV
or
pubic
transit
capacity,
and/or
safety
improvements
to
streets
and
intersections
that
support
General
Plan
goals.
Improvements
that
offset
the
project’s
contribution
to
lower
levels
of
service
within
the
project
vicinity
or
within
the
area
could
possibly
be
off-‐set
by
the
provision
of
system
improvements.
This
exemption
does
not
affect
the
implementation
of
previously
approved
roadway
and
intersection
improvements.
CIRCULATION
II-‐120
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
The
future
is
uncertain.
The
price
of
conventional
fuels
has
increased
substantially
and
is
expected
to
continue
increasing
over
the
coming
years.
The
environmental
costs
associated
with
a
petroleum-‐based
transportation
system
are
finally
being
more
fully
identified
and
quantified.
The
cost
of
transportation
infrastructure
in
terms
of
land,
improvements
and
maintenance,
congestion
and
social
costs
are
becoming
progressively
more
burdensome.
Of
course,
the
first
step
in
solving
a
problem
is
in
clearly
defining
it.
The
solution
includes
a
greater
diversification
of
the
available
modes
of
moving
people
and
goods,
and
gaining
greater
efficiencies
from
our
existing
transportation
infrastructure.
Place-‐Based
Transportation
Planning
The
approach
espoused
for
transportation
planning
in
the
City
is
one
that
more
fully
takes
into
account
the
complete
street
environment,
one
that
considers
people
who
are
walking,
enjoying
public
parks
and
plazas,
riding
bikes,
taking
public
transit
and
those
who
are
driving
cars
and
NEVs.
This
approach
requires
a
more
expansive
vision
of
the
community,
one
that
sees
transportation
as
serving
and
helping
to
create
places
for
residents,
visitors
and
workers.
Therefore,
the
Circulation
Element
places
an
emphasis
on
improving
conditions
to
support
all
modes
of
transportation,
while
also
maintaining
system-‐wide
efficiency.
The
transportation
system
becomes
part
of
the
social
fabric,
not
just
a
mechanism
for
moving
people
and
goods.
It
can
enhance
people
connections,
ease
access
to
areas
that
are
enlivened
by
residents
and
visitors,
creating
a
vibrancy
and
sense
of
place
that
is
integral
to
the
quality
of
life
enjoyed
in
the
City.
Future
planning
efforts
should
continue
the
City’s
current
trends
toward
rebalancing
the
circulation
system,
ensuring
that
multiple
modes
of
travel
are
accommodated,
respecting
street
context
including
land
use
and
desired
character,
encouraging
environmental
responsibility,
optimizing
pedestrian
and
bicycle
and
NEV
use,
and
the
creation
of
places
for
people.
CIRCULATION
II-‐121
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
CIR-‐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.
v Policy
CIR-‐1.1
Maintain
and
regularly
update
a
complete
General
Plan
master
plan
of
roads,
which
includes
provisions
for
as
many
modes
of
travel
as
possible,
sets
targets
for
ultimate
rights-‐of-‐way
and
pavement
width
and
provides
a
schedule
for
securing
right-‐of-‐way
and
constructing
improvements
consistent
with
the
projected
needs
and
standards
set
forth
in
the
City
Circulation
Element
and
Program
EIR.
Program
CIR-‐1.1.a:
Based
on
annual
monitoring
of
the
roadway
network,
maintain
a
transportation
Capital
Improvement
Program
(CIP)
that
sets
forth
timelines
for
the
construction
of
new
roadway
and
other
transportation
infrastructure
in
the
community.
The
program
shall
plan
in
five-‐year
increments.
Program
CIR-‐1.1.b:
Based
on
annual
monitoring
of
the
roadway
network,
establish
and
maintain
a
roadway
pavement
management
program
(PMP)
that
sets
forth
timelines
and
schedules
for
the
maintenance
of
existing
roads
in
the
community.
The
program
shall
establish
funding
levels
each
fiscal
year.
Program
CIR-‐1.1.c:
The
General
Plan
Traffic
Impact
Analysis
and
associated
modeling
shall
be
updated
every
two
years
or
as
determined
appropriate
by
the
City
Engineer.
v Policy
CIR-‐1.2
The
General
Plan
designated
street
classifications
set
forth
in
the
Circulation
Element
and
serving
as
the
Master
Plan
of
Roads
shall
be
as
follows:
Highway
111
six
lanes,
divided,
Class
II
bike/NEV
lane,
multi-‐use
paths
Major
Arterial:
six
lanes,
divided,
Class
II
bike/NEV
lane,
multi-‐
use
paths
Primary
Arterial:
four
lanes,
divided,
Class
II
bike/NEV
lane,
multi-‐use
paths
CIRCULATION
II-‐122
Secondary
Arterial:
four
lanes,
undivided,
Class
II
bike/NEV
lane,
multi-‐use
paths
Modified
Secondary:
two
lane,
divided,
Class
II
bike/NEV
lane,
multi-‐use
paths
Collector:
two
lane,
undivided,
Class
II
bike/NEV
v Policy
CIR-‐1.3
The
City
Public
Works
Department
standard
plans
setting
forth
roadways
standards
and
specifications
shall
be
updated
and
maintained,
addressing
rights-‐of-‐way,
lane
dimensions
and
multi-‐use
path
design.
v 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.
v Policy
CIR-‐1.5
Where
the
construction
of
multi-‐use
paths
is
called
for
but
is
determined
to
be
infeasible
sidewalks
shall
be
constructed
along
at
least
one
side
of
these
roadways.
v Policy
CIR-‐1.6
Maintain
LOS-‐
D
operating
conditions
for
all
corridors
and
intersections
unless
maintaining
this
LOS
would,
in
the
City’s
judgment,
be
infeasible
and/or
conflict
with
the
achievement
of
other
goals.
v Policy
CIR-‐1.7
Allow
flexible
Level
of
Service
(LOS)
standards
in
recognition
of
constraints
on
roadway
expansions
and
as
a
means
of
creating
streets
that
balance
all
modes
of
travel.
v Policy
CIR-‐1.8
LOS
E
and
F
conditions
may
be
determined
acceptable
during
peak
travel
periods
and
a
level
of
service
exemption
or
determination
of
General
Plan
consistency
may
be
approved
if
other
feasible
roadway
improvements
can
be
constructed
and/or
management
programs
implemented
that
mitigate
for
the
loss
and
achieve
an
acceptable
level
of
service.
Exemptions
shall
not
affect
the
implementation
of
previously
approved
roadway
and
intersection
improvements.
CIRCULATION
II-‐123
v Policy
CIR-‐1.9
Coordinate
and
cooperate
with
Caltrans,
CVAG,
Riverside
County
and
adjoining
cities
to
assure
adequate
transportation
infrastructure,
systems
management
coordination,
preservation
of
capacity
and
maximized
efficiency
along
Washington
Street,
Jefferson
Street,
Highway
111,
Fred
Waring
Drive,
Harrison
Street
and
other
major
roadways.
Program
1.9.a:
Maintain
a
liaison
with
adjoining
cities,
Caltrans,
CVAG,
Riverside
County
planning
and
engineering
staffs
to
study
and
implement
effective
means
of
preserving
and
improving
capacity
along
Washington
Street,
Jefferson
Street,
Highway
111,
Harrison
Street
and
other
major
roadways
serving
inter-‐city
traffic.
Strategies
shall
include
but
are
not
limited
to
synchronized
signalization,
consolidation
of
access
drives
and
restriction
of
access,
construction
of
additional
travel
and
turning
lanes,
raised
median
islands,
and
other
improvements
to
critical
intersections.
v 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.a:
Review
new
and
redeveloping
projects
along
all
major
roadways
with
the
intent
of
limiting
access
and
aligning
and/or
consolidating
access
drives
in
a
manner
which
minimizes
conflicting
turning
movements
and
maximizes
the
use
of
existing
and
planned
signalized
intersections.
Program
CIR-‐1.10.b:
On
Major
Arterials
the
minimum
intersection
spacing
shall
be
2,600
feet
in
residential
areas,
and
may
be
1,060
feet
for
commercial
frontage.
Intersection
spacing
may
be
reduced
to
500
feet
at
the
Whitewater
Channel
and
La
Quinta
Evacuation
Channel.
The
design
speed
shall
be
55
miles
per
hour
(mph).
Left
turn
median
cuts
may
be
authorized
if
the
proposed
turn
pocket
does
not
interfere
with
other
existing
or
planned
left
turn
pockets.
Right
in/right
out
access
driveways
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;
CIRCULATION
II-‐124
§ more
than
150
feet
on
the
exit
leg
from
a
full
turn
intersection;
§ more
than
275
feet
between
driveways.
All
access
configurations
shall
be
subject
to
City
Engineer
review
and
approval.
Program
CIR-‐1.10.c:
On
Primary
Arterials
the
minimum
intersection
spacing
shall
be
1,060
feet.
The
design
speed
shall
be
45
mph.
Left
turn
median
cuts
may
be
authorized
if
the
proposed
turn
pocket
does
not
interfere
with
other
existing
or
planned
left
turn
pockets.
Right
in/right
out
access
driveways
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;
§ more
than
275
feet
between
driveways.
All
access
configurations
shall
require
City
Engineer
review
and
approval.
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.
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;
§ more
than
250
feet
between
driveways.
All
access
configurations
shall
be
subject
to
City
Engineer
review
and
approval.
CIRCULATION
II-‐125
Program
CIR-‐1.10.f:
On
Collectors,
the
minimum
intersection
spacing
shall
be
300
feet.
The
design
speed
shall
be
30
mph.
Access
driveways
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;
§ more
than
250
feet
between
driveways.
All
access
configurations
shall
be
subject
to
City
Engineer
review
and
approval.
Program
CIR-‐1.10.g:
On
Local
streets,
the
minimum
intersection
spacing
shall
be
250
feet.
The
design
speed
shall
be
25
mph.
All
access
configurations
shall
be
subject
to
City
Engineer
review
and
approval.
Program
CIR-‐1.10.h:
Within
subdivisions,
private
streets
may
be
designed
to
provide
a
reduced
minimum
paved
width
of
28
feet
with
no
on-‐street
or
restricted
on-‐street
parking,
subject
to
City
Engineer
and
Fire
Department
approval,
and
in
consideration
of
other
improvements
that
encourage
pedestrian
and
bicycle
use.
Program
CIR-‐1.10.i:
Standards
for
all
City
streets,
intersections
and
other
appurtenances
shall
be
maintained
in
the
City
Municipal
Code.
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.
Program
CIR-‐1.10.k:
Confer
and
coordinate
with
CVAG
in
efforts
to
secure
state
and
federal
funding
sources
for
preservation
and
expansion
of
capacity
on
State
Highway
111
and
other
important
City
arterials.
Program
CIR-‐1.10.l:
New
streets,
which
are
extensions
of
existing
streets,
shall
carry
the
same
name
for
their
entire
length.
CIRCULATION
II-‐126
v Policy
CIR-‐1.11
Apply
Transportation
Systems
Management
(TSM)
strategies
to
intersections
and
roadway
segments
as
a
cost-‐effective
means
of
optimizing
the
City's
transportation
infrastructure.
Program
CIR-‐1.11.a:
Prepare
a
preliminary
TSM
assessment
of
candidate
intersections
and
roadways,
and
prioritize
projects
for
application
of
TSM
solutions.
Program
CIR-‐1.11.b:
As
part
of
the
five-‐year
Capital
Improvement
Program,
incorporate
TSM
projects
into
other
roadway
improvement
and
enhancement
projects.
Program
CIR-‐1.11.c:
Prepare
project-‐specific
TSM
strategies
that
take
advantage
of
simply
and
low-‐cost
solutions
first,
and
optimize
the
hierarchy
of
TSM
solutions.
v 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.
CIRCULATION
II-‐127
v Policy
CIR-‐1.13
Coordinate
with
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
and
its
consultants
regarding
its
flood
control
facilities
to
assure
the
accommodation
of
all-‐weather
crossings
along
critical
roadways.
Program
CIR-‐1.13.a:
Cooperate
in
the
planning
and
development
of
all-‐weather
crossings
as
part
of
the
community's
Master
Drainage
Plan
implementation.
v Policy
CIR-‐1.14
Private
streets
shall
be
developed
in
accordance
with
development
standards
set
forth
in
the
Municipal
Code,
relevant
Public
Works
Bulletins
and
other
applicable
standards
and
guidelines.
Program
CIR-‐1.14.a:
Private
streets
will
be
designed
to
meet
the
standards
of
the
City’s
public
street
system
at
the
point
where
they
connect
with
it,
in
order
to
safely
integrate
into
public
and
private
streets.
v Policy
CIR-‐1.15
Truck
routes
shall
avoid
or
minimize
potential
impacts
to
residential
neighborhoods
and
shall
be
designated
and
limited
to
those
shown
on
Exhibit
II-‐5.
v Policy
CIR-‐1.16
Continue
to
implement
the
Image
Corridor
treatments
throughout
the
City
(see
Exhibit
II-‐4)
and
identify
new
image
corridors
for
streets
brought
into
the
City
through
annexation.
Program
1.16.a:
Standards
for
all
Image
Corridors
shall
be
maintained
in
the
City
Municipal
Code.
Program
1.16.b:
Where
applicable,
Image
Corridor
standards
shall
be
superseded
by
the
Village
Design
Standards
in
that
land
use
designation.
Program
1.16.c:
Secure
easements
adjacent
to
public
road
right-‐
of-‐way
along
Image
Corridors
to
enhance
view
protection
and
corridor
accessibility.
v Policy
CIR-‐1.17
In
order
to
preserve
the
aesthetic
values
on
the
City’s
streets,
optimum
landscape
setbacks
shall
be
maintained
along
all
designated
General
CIRCULATION
II-‐128
Plan
Image
Corridors
and
shall
be
identified
in
the
City's
Municipal
Code.
v Policy
CIR-‐1.18
Calle
Cadiz,
Calle
Barcelona
and
Calle
Amigo,
in
the
Village
area,
shall
be
allowed
to
remain
at
a
maximum
50-‐foot
right-‐of-‐way.
v Policy
CIR-‐1.19
The
City
Engineer
shall
review
individual
development
proposals
located
at
critical
intersections,
and
shall
have
the
authority
to
request
additional
right
of
way
if
necessary.
v Policy
CIR-‐1.20
Building
height
limits
along
City
Image
Corridors
shall
be
identified
in
the
City's
Municipal
Code.
v Policy
CIR-‐1.21
Facilitate
the
design,
installation
and
maintenance
of
a
community
locational/directional
sign
program
to
efficiently
direct
traffic
to
high
use
areas,
including
the
civic
center,
parks,
SilverRock
golf
course,
Jacqueline
Cochran
Regional
Airport,
and
other
facilities
and
major
attractions
and
destinations
in
and
around
the
City.
v Policy
1.22
Coordinate
and
cooperate
with
the
Riverside
County
Airport
Commission
(for
the
Jacqueline
Cochran
Regional
Airport)
and
the
Palm
Springs
Regional
Airport
Authority
to
assure
that
these
airports
continue
to
meet
the
City’s
existing
and
future
transportation,
commercial
and
emergency
response
needs.
Program
CIR-‐1.22.a:
Consult
and
coordinate
with
the
County
in
updating
the
Jacqueline
Cochran
Regional
Airport
Master
Plan
and
encourage
the
expansion
of
facilities
to
accommodate
commercial
aircraft
serving
the
eastern
portions
of
the
Valley.
GOAL
CIR-‐2
A
circulation
system
that
promotes
and
enhances
transit,
alternative
vehicle,
bicycle
and
pedestrian
networks.
v Policy
CIR-‐2.1
Encourage
and
cooperate
with
SunLine
Transit
Agency
on
the
expansion
of
routes,
facilities,
services
and
ridership
especially
in
CIRCULATION
II-‐129
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.
Program
CIR-‐2.1.a:
Consult
and
coordinate
with
the
SunLine
Transit
Agency
on
immediate
and
long-‐term
transit
issues,
and
assure
pro
active
representation
on
the
Agency
Board
and
its
decision
making
process.
Program
CIR-‐2.1.b:
Initiate
consultation
and
as
necessary
meet
with
SunLine
staff
to
identify
areas
where
additional
routes
and
increased
levels
and
types
of
transit
service
are
warranted
by
existing
and
future
development.
Program
CIR-‐2.1.c:
When
reviewing
development
proposals,
consult
and
coordinate
with
SunLine
and
solicit
comments
and
suggestions
on
how
bus
stops
and
other
public
transit
facilities
and
design
concepts,
including
enhanced
handicapped
access,
should
be
integrated
into
project
designs.
Program
CIR-‐2.1.d:
When
reviewing
large-‐scale
development
proposals,
consult
and
coordinate
with
SunLine
to
encourage
the
development
of
rideshare
and
other
alternative,
high
occupancy
transit
programs
for
employers
with
sufficient
numbers
of
employees.
Program
CIR-‐2.1.e:
Encourage
and
proactively
support
the
efforts
of
SunLine
in
organizing
a
Transportation
Management
Organization
(TMO)
among
employers
to
provide
an
on-‐going
information
network,
develop
a
rideshare
plan,
and
determine
opportunities
for
transit/shuttle
operations.
Program
CIR-‐2.1.f:
Encourage
SunLine
to
continue
its
efforts
to
utilize
the
most
energy
efficient
and
least
polluting
transportation
technologies,
including
fuel
cells,
hybrid
and
other
advanced
technologies.
v 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.
CIRCULATION
II-‐130
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/111/47th
4.
47th/Caleo
Bay
5.
Washington/Calle
Tampico
6.
Eisenhower/Avenida
Montezuma
b. Support
SunLine
bus
routes
and
service,
to
include
Bus
Rapid
Transit
(BRT)
along
Highway
111
and
along
Harrison
Avenue.
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.
g. Implement
transit-‐preferential
measures
such
as
transit
signal
priority
and
bypass
lanes.
h.
Support
“Smart
bus”
technology,
using
GPS
and
electronic
displays
at
transit
stops
to
provide
customers
with
“real-‐time”
arrival
and
departure
time
information.
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.
CIRCULATION
II-‐131
l. 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.b:
Modify
the
Zoning
Ordinance
to
encourage
integrated,
shared
and
reciprocal
parking
design
and
management
as
a
means
of
better
matching
parking
availability
with
varying
parking
demand
distributed
during
the
day.
Program
CIR-‐2.2c:
The
City’s
Zoning
Ordinance
shall
be
amended
to
specifically
address
vehicular
and
pedestrian
interconnection
between
adjacent
commercial
properties
in
order
to
facilitate
access
between
adjacent
or
nearby
businesses
and
increase
efficiency
and
safety.
Zoning
Ordinance
amendments
shall
also
address
opportunities
to
provide
direct
pedestrian
access
between
commercial
and
adjacent
residential
development.
Program
CIR-‐2.2.d:
Promote
ridesharing
programs
that
shift
demand
to
the
greatest
available
source
of
unused
travel
capacity
–
empty
seats
in
private
vehicles.
Require
the
designation
of
parking
spaces
for
ride-‐sharing
vehicles
at
employment
and
activity
centers
in
conditions
of
approval.
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.f:
Modify
the
Zoning
Ordinance
to
incorporate
parking
space
maximums.
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.
Program
CIR-‐2.2.h:
During
consideration
of
the
Zoning
Ordinance
updates,
explore
opportunities
for
Transit
Oriented
Development
Overlay
Zones
within
one-‐quarter
mile
radii
of
intersections
where
existing
or
future
bus
lines
intersect,
including
at
Highway
111/Adams
and
Highway
111/Harrison
Street.
CIRCULATION
II-‐132
v 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,
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
support
facilities
which
increase
bicycle
and
golf
cart/NEV
use.
Program
CIR-‐2.3.b:
The
construction
of
bikeways
shall
conform
to
the
Caltrans
manual
“Planning
and
Design
Criteria
for
Bikeways
in
California.”
Bikeways
shall
be
a
minimum
of
6
feet
in
width.
Alternative
designs
required
by
constraints
may
be
acceptable,
as
approved
by
the
Public
Works
Director.
Program
CIR-‐2.3.c:
Sidewalks
shall
be
provided
on
both
sides
of
all
arterial,
secondary
and
collector
streets,
except
where
there
is
a
multi-‐use
path
on
one
side.
Program
CIR-‐2.3.d:
Golf
carts
shall
be
permitted
on
designated
routes,
as
depicted
in
Exhibit
II-‐7
and
Exhibit
II-‐8,
and
on
all
public
local
streets.
Specific
street
crossings
for
golf
carts
from
the
cove
onto
collectors
and
arterials
shall
be
designated
by
the
City
Engineer.
v Policy
CIR-‐2.4
The
City
shall
set
an
example
for
the
community
in
the
implementation
of
ridesharing
programs
and
those
that
encourage
the
use
of
alternative
modes
of
travel
by
City
employees.
Program
CIR-‐2.4.a:
To
the
extent
practical,
prepare
and
implement
a
rideshare
plan
for
City
employees
to
serve
as
an
example
for
area
employers.
This
plan
should
include
meaningful
incentives
for
employees
to
walk,
bike,
or
rideshare
to
complete
their
work
commutes.
CIRCULATION
II-‐133
RELATED
GOALS
As
described
above,
this
Element
relates
to
others
in
this
General
Plan.
The
following
Goals,
and
their
associated
policies
and
programs,
are
closely
related
to
those
of
this
Element.
GOAL
LU-‐1:
Land
use
compatibility
throughout
the
City.
GOAL
SC-‐1:
A
community
that
provides
the
best
possible
quality
of
life
for
all
its
residents.
GOAL
AQ-‐1:
A
reduction
in
all
air
emissions
generated
within
the
City.
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐135
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
PURPOSE
The
Livable
Community
Element
is
not
a
state
mandated
element,
but
is
an
element
that
La
Quinta
believes
is
important
to
the
long
term
quality
of
life
of
its
residents.
Many
components
of
the
natural
and
man-‐made
environment
are
a
part
of
creating
a
livable
community:
the
conservation
of
natural
resources,
including
water
conservation;
the
reduction
of
air
pollution
and
greenhouse
gases;
high
quality
community
design
and
the
replacement
of
inefficient
appliances
and
fixtures
in
existing
homes
and
businesses;
efficient
use
of
the
car,
and
the
expansion
of
other,
non
motorized
means
of
transportation;
and
healthy
living
practices
which
help
to
improve
the
health
of
residents.
This
Element
will
help
the
City
build
a
more
cohesive
community
through
the
conservation
of
resources,
enhancement
of
the
built
environment,
encouraging
transportation
options
that
do
not
rely
as
much
on
the
automobile,
and
improving
the
community’s
health.
Many
programs
are
already
being
implemented
in
La
Quinta.
There
are
existing
examples
of
buildings
and
landscapes
that
have
been
designed
using
resource
conserving
techniques,
including
the
Vista
Dunes
Courtyard
Apartments.
The
Vista
Dunes
complex
provides
design
elements
and
features
that
reduce
energy
demands,
provide
renewable
energy,
and
reduce
water
demand.
A
number
of
other
programs
are
described
further
below.
Within
this
General
Plan,
this
Element
relates
to
the
broadest
range
of
elements,
including
Land
Use,
Circulation,
Parks
and
Recreation,
Open
Space,
Air
Quality,
Water
Resources
and
Public
Facilities.
Many
of
the
concepts
and
programs
in
this
Element
are
interconnected
with
State
Building
Codes,
Regional
Water
Plans,
and
the
City’s
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan.
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐136
BACKGROUND
The
City
of
La
Quinta
has
grown
for
a
number
of
reasons,
including
its
wide
range
of
housing
stock,
its
varied
economic
base,
and
its
natural
setting.
As
the
City
continues
to
grow,
it
is
important
that
its
assets
be
preserved
and
enhanced,
and
that
future
residents,
visitors
and
business
people
experience
the
same
quality
of
life
as
past
and
current
residents
have.
An
important
tool
available
to
the
City
in
maintaining
and
enhancing
quality
of
life
is
its
ability
to
provide
choices
to
residents,
visitors
or
businesses.
These
choices
include
whether
a
family
wants
to
live
in
a
home,
an
apartment
or
a
condominium;
whether
a
resident
drives,
walks,
bicycles
or
takes
the
bus
to
work;
or
whether
he
shops
for
food
at
a
supermarket
or
a
farmers’
market.
This
Element
addresses
ways
in
which
the
City
can
sustain
and
enhance
the
natural
and
built
environment
to
assure
that
these
choices
are
available
in
the
future,
and
ultimately
improve
the
quality
of
life
for
everyone
in
La
Quinta.
The
quality
of
our
air
and
water,
the
ability
to
reduce
energy
use
and
save
money,
high
quality
development
options
and
the
improvement
of
all
types
of
transportation
systems
are
all
discussed
below
to
provide
the
broadest
menu
of
options
for
the
City’s
decision
makers
in
the
future.
Conservation
of
Natural
Resources
The
conservation
of
natural
resources
is
a
major
component
of
a
livable
community.
Each
new
development
creates
demands
for
water,
energy,
and
contributes
to
air
pollution
in
the
City
and
region.
Implementing
conservation
measures
will
not
only
help
the
environment,
but
will
also
provide
cost
savings
to
residents
and
business
owners,
and
reduce
the
City’s
own
operational
costs.
Water
Resources
The
City
of
La
Quinta
is
located
in
a
desert,
and
averages
only
3.31
inches
of
rain
per
year.2
As
a
result,
La
Quinta
and
all
communities
in
the
Coachella
Valley
rely
on
groundwater
as
the
primary
source
of
potable
drinking
water
and
irrigation.
Continued
growth
in
the
Valley
has
increased
demand
for
groundwater,
and
has
led
to
a
decline
in
groundwater
levels.
When
more
water
is
pumped
out
of
the
aquifer
than
can
be
replenished,
the
resulting
loss
is
called
“overdraft.”
In
2
“Technical
Background
Report
to
the
Safety
Element
of
La
Quinta
2035
General
Plan
Update”,
prepared
by
Earth
Consultants
International,
Inc.,
June
2010.
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐137
2009,
the
CVWD
reported
that
a
total
of
160,000
acre-‐feet
of
water
was
pumped
over
water
replenished,
resulting
in
an
overdraft
of
23,912
acre-‐feet,
in
the
Lower
Whitewater
Subbasin,
which
serves
the
City
and
other
communities
in
the
eastern
Coachella
Valley.
3
Imported
water
from
the
Colorado
River
and
new
replenishment
programs
implemented
by
the
CVWD
have
helped
alleviate
declines,
but
both
rely
on
outside
sources
of
water.
In
2010,
approximately
300,000
acre-‐feet
of
water
per
year
have
been
allocated
from
the
Colorado
River
to
the
eastern
Coachella
Valley,
primarily
for
agricultural
irrigation.
Although
continued
importation
of
water
will
help
to
replenish
the
aquifer,
a
more
resourceful
alternative
is
to
reduce
the
amount
of
water
pumped
by
the
CVWD,
which
will
have
a
direct
impact
on
overdraft.
Conservation
techniques
have
already
been
implemented,
and
new
measures
are
being
developed
to
lower
the
amount
of
water
used
by
each
household
and
business
in
the
City.
Some
of
the
existing
programs
include:
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
Urban
Water
Management
Plan:
The
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
has
developed
programs
for
reducing
water
use
throughout
the
Valley.
Implementation
of
conservation
programs
included
in
the
Plan
have
already
helped
reduce
water
demand,
particularly
through
the
use
of
recycled
water
for
irrigation
at
local
golf
courses.
The
CVWD
also
implemented
its
Landscape
and
Irrigation
System
Design
Criteria
Ordinance
as
a
result
of
the
Plan,
which
provides
specific
guidelines
for
local
communities
to
reduce
overall
water
use,
eliminate
water
flowing
down
streets,
and
establish
limited
grass
allowances
at
local
golf
courses.
The
CVWD
will
continue
to
be
a
source
for
new
programs
geared
toward
water
conservation.
The
CVWD
should
continue
to
expand
the
availability
of
recycled
water,
which
will
expand
the
use
of
non-‐potable
water
for
golf
courses
and
landscaping.
City
Landscape
Ordinance:
The
City
has
already
been
proactive
in
water
conservation
by
incorporating
strict
new
outdoor
3
“Engineer’s
Report
on
Water
Supply
and
Replenishment
Assessment:
Lower
Whitewater
River
Subbasin
Area
of
Benefit”,
CVWD,
April
2010.
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐138
water
use
standards
through
the
implementation
of
CVWD’s
landscaping
ordinance.
The
City
adopted
Title
8,
Chapter
8.13
of
the
Municipal
Code,
Water
Efficient
Landscaping,
on
February
5,
2010
to
reduce
water
usage
for
new
and
rehabilitated
landscaping
projects.
The
Ordinance
requires
the
use
of
drought
resistant
and
desert
friendly
plants,
reduced
use
of
turf
and
efficient
irrigation
design
and
equipment.
As
new
technology
is
developed,
the
Ordinance
should
be
updated
to
incorporate
its
use.
1. CalGreen
Code:
As
of
January
1,
2011,
all
qualifying
new
residential
and
nonresidential
buildings
in
California
will
need
to
abide
by
water
saving
measures
called
out
in
the
2010
California
Green
Building
Standards,
or
CalGreen
Codes.
The
CalGreen
Codes
require
that
indoor
water
use
be
reduced
by
20%
through
the
use
of
water
efficient
fixtures.
CalGreen
also
requires
irrigation
controls
that
monitor
soil
and
weather
conditions
and
eliminate
wasteful
watering.
Over
the
next
25
years,
increasingly
stringent
codes
will
further
reduce
water
use.
2. Federal
Water
Saving
Programs:
The
United
States
Environmental
Protection
Agency
has
created
the
WaterSense
label
for
various
products,
including
toilets,
sinks,
showerheads,
and
urinals
that
save
water.
As
an
example,
replacing
an
older
toilet
with
a
WaterSense
labeled
toilet
can
save
nearly
11
gallons
per
toilet
per
day,
or
4,000
gallons
per
year.
A
home
equipped
entirely
with
WaterSense
fixtures
can
save
approximately
10,000
gallons
of
water
per
year.4
Water
conservation
in
La
Quinta
is
essential
to
reduce
the
overdraft
of
local
groundwater,
and
protect
future
resources.
Water
conservation
must
include
all
types
of
water
use
–
from
landscaping
to
indoor
fixtures,
and
must
include
new
and
existing
development.
The
programs
described
above
provide
the
foundation
for
reducing
water
demand.
This
Element
can
allow
the
City
to
expand
programs
that
promote
water
conservation
now
and
into
the
future.
4
www.epa.gov/WaterSense/products/index.html,
December
10,
2010.
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐139
Stormwater
Runoff
and
Water
Quality
Protection
The
reduction
of
stormwater
runoff,
which
leads
to
surface
water
pollution
and
groundwater
pollution,
is
also
important
to
the
preservation
of
water
resources.
Increased
runoff
and
pollution
is
caused
by
the
increasing
amount
of
non-‐porous
surfaces
found
throughout
the
built
environment.
Natural
environments
allow
water
to
percolate
through
the
soil.
Roads,
parking
lots,
roofs
and
other
non-‐
porous
structures
cause
runoff
to
flow
into
storm
drains,
channels
and
streams.
Non-‐porous
surfaces
collect
pollutants,
such
as
oil,
pesticides,
and
other
chemicals,
which
are
carried
by
runoff
into
local
watersheds,
threatening
water
quality.
In
La
Quinta,
the
Whitewater
River
Channel
is
the
main
collection
point
of
local
runoff.
This
watercourse
is
also
an
important
source
for
groundwater
replenishment.
Increased
contamination
has
the
potential
to
threaten
groundwater
supplies
and
sensitive
habitat,
especially
in
and
around
the
Salton
Sea,
where
the
Whitewater
River
ends.
Existing
state
and
federal
regulations,
including
the
Federal
Clean
Water
Act,
are
working
to
protect
water
quality
and
reduce
runoff
and
pollution.
The
Clean
Water
Act
regulates
runoff
through
the
National
Pollutant
Discharge
Elimination
System
(NPDES).
The
NPDES
regulates
what
are
called
“point
sources”
of
pollution,
which
include
discharge
from
commercial,
industrial,
municipal,
and
other
buildings.
In
La
Quinta,
the
Colorado
River
Basin
Regional
Water
Control
Board
is
responsible
for
the
NPDES
permit
process.
The
Board
also
requires
that
new
development
use
Stormwater
Pollution
Prevention
Plans
(SWPPP)
and
Best
Management
Practices
(BMP)
to
reduce
impacts
from
runoff
during
construction,
and
also
during
life
of
the
project.
La
Quinta
implements
the
requirements
of
NPDES
with
all
new
development.
In
addition,
design
options
such
as
vegetated
swales,
buffers,
and
detention
basins
in
new
development
projects
can
help
to
reduce
stormwater
pollution.
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐140
Bioswales
in
parking
lots
can
be
built
to
help
capture
runoff.
Bioswales
also
provide
opportunities
to
breakup
the
monotony
of
large
parking
lots,
and
provide
healthier
environments
for
plants.
Other
measures
that
should
be
encouraged
at
the
local
level
are
the
use
of
permeable
materials,
such
as
pavers,
cobblestone,
and
crushed
stone
for
the
construction
of
roads,
sidewalks,
parking
lots
and
driveways.
Design
techniques
used
to
reduce
runoff
from
both
residential
and
non-‐residential
will
help
La
Quinta
improve
water
quality.
Air
Quality
Air
is
an
important
natural
resource,
and
human
health
is
dependent
on
clean
air.
Harmful
air
leads
to
health
related
problems
including
lung
disease,
heart
disease,
asthma
and
birth
defects.
Air
quality
issues
have
become
more
common
in
Southern
California
as
it
has
continued
to
grow.
The
combination
of
geography,
the
dependence
on
automobile
travel,
and
growth
have
combined
to
create
high
levels
of
air
pollutants.
The
Coachella
Valley
generally
has
cleaner
air
than
areas
west
of
the
mountains,
but
the
Valley
does
have
air
quality
concerns.
Air
Pollution
is
caused
mainly
by
cars,
diesel
trucks,
and
buses.
Other
sources
include
construction
activities,
heating
and
air
conditioning
units,
lawn
mowers
and
blowers,
and
other
non-‐mobile
sources.
The
Air
Quality
Element
and
the
General
Plan
EIR
provide
detailed
descriptions
of
the
types
of
air
pollutants,
including
carbon
monoxide,
sulfur
oxide,
nitrogen
oxide,
ozone,
lead,
particulate
matter
and
volatile
organic
compounds.
In
more
recent
years,
greenhouse
gases
have
gained
notoriety.
Greenhouse
gases
are
caused
by
the
burning
of
fossil
fuels,
and
include
carbon
dioxide,
methane,
nitrous
oxide,
chlorofluorocarbons,
hydrofluorocarbons,
perfluorocarbons,
sulfur
hexafluoride,
and
aerosols.
Greenhouse
gases
have
been
linked
to
climate
change,
and
are
believed
to
be
responsible
for
global
warming.
State
legislation,
including
the
Global
Warming
Solutions
Act
(AB32),
calls
for
a
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐141
reduction
in
greenhouse
gases
to
1990
levels
by
2020,
representing
a
30%
reduction
State-‐wide.
As
part
of
its
local
implementation
of
AB32,
La
Quinta
has
developed
a
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan,
and
aims
to
reduce
CO2e
emissions
in
compliance
with
State
mandates.
The
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan
includes
a
comprehensive
inventory
of
greenhouse
gas
emissions
generated
City-‐wide,
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.
Improving
air
quality
is
a
regional
problem
and
requires
a
cooperative
effort
of
state,
regional
and
local
agencies.
The
South
Coast
Air
Quality
Management
District
(SCAQMD)
regulates
air
quality
for
the
region,
and
has
adopted
Air
Quality
Management
Plans
to
meet
federal
and
State
Clean
Air
Act
requirements.
The
SCAQMD
also
has
adopted
plans
that
address
toxic
air
pollutants.
The
most
significant
source
of
air
pollution
in
La
Quinta
is
from
automobile
emissions.
Automobile
emissions
create
high
levels
of
ozone,
carbon
monoxide,
and
also
greenhouse
gases.
Efforts
to
reduce
emissions
from
automobiles
can
result
in
significant
improvements
to
air
quality
and
help
reduce
the
greenhouse
gases
that
lead
to
global
warming.
A
reduction
in
auto
emissions
can
be
achieved
in
two
ways:
by
reducing
the
number
of
trips
people
take
in
their
automobiles;
and
by
improving
the
technology
which
runs
those
automobiles.
Reducing
vehicle
trips
requires
developing
pedestrian
friendly
environments
and
encouraging
alternative
modes
of
transportation.
The
City
can
expand
alternative
transportation
in
a
number
of
ways:
Improving
and
expanding
the
multi-‐use
path
network
that
exists
currently
throughout
the
City,
and
making
it
accessible
to
multiple
users,
including
pedestrians,
bicyclists
and
golf
cart
riders.
Expanding
the
City’s
golf
cart
routes.
Facilitating
the
use
of
Neighborhood
Electric
Vehicles.
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐142
Improving
and
expanding
sidewalks
and
pedestrian
trails
to
assure
safe
travel
for
pedestrians.
Including
bike
racks
in
development
plans
for
both
private
and
public
development.
Encouraging
the
expansion
of
bus
service
through
the
SunLine
Transit
Agency.
Implementing
Transportation
Demand
Management
for
large
employers
(please
see
the
Circulation
Element
for
a
description
of
Transportation
Demand
Management).
The
technological
improvements
to
the
automobile,
including
better
emissions
control
for
gasoline
and
diesel
vehicles,
and
hybrid,
natural
gas
and
electric
vehicles,
will
come
from
elsewhere.
The
City
can,
however,
facilitate
and
encourage
these
technological
advances
by
making
it
easier
to
operate
an
alternative
fuel
vehicle
in
the
City
through:
Installation
of
charging
stations
at
public
parking
lots.
Encouraging
the
installation
of
charging
stations
at
commercial
shopping
centers
and
employment
centers.
Encouraging
alternative
fuel
fueling
stations
in
the
City.
Providing
incentives
for
alternatively
fueled
vehicles,
such
as
preferred
or
covered
parking,
at
public
facilities.
Energy
Resources
The
conservation
of
energy
resources
is
another
important
component
of
the
Livable
Community
Element.
Although
there
are
no
electric
or
natural
gas
power
plants
in
La
Quinta,
the
demand
for
electricity
and
natural
gas
from
City
residents
and
businesses
increases
air
pollution
elsewhere.
The
production
of
electricity
and
natural
gas
is
dependent
on
the
burning
of
fossil
fuels.
The
higher
the
demand
for
electricity
and
natural
gas,
the
higher
the
emissions
from
the
plants
that
produce
them.
A
reduction
in
energy
use
will
help
reduce
the
amount
of
air
pollutants
and
greenhouses
gases
generated
by
electricity
and
natural
gas
production.
Another
important
way
in
which
to
reduce
the
pollution
generated
by
energy
production
is
the
use
of
alternative
energy
–
solar
and
wind
power
–
to
generate
electricity.
Current
Electric
and
Gas
Use
The
average
household’s
electricity
demand
is
16,798
(kilowatt
hours)
kwh
per
year
in
La
Quinta.
There
are
currently
approximately
23,489
households
within
the
City,
and
801
households
in
the
Sphere
of
Influence.
These
households
use
approximately
408,023,420
kwh
of
electricity
in
one
year.
Commercial
uses,
such
as
retail
stores
and
office
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐143
buildings,
have
an
estimated
demand
of
57.88
kwh
per
square
foot
per
year.
In
La
Quinta,
commercial
uses
consume
371,244,404
kwh
of
electricity
annually.
Natural
gas
demand
for
a
household
in
La
Quinta
is
approximately
29,093
cubic
feet
per
year,
and
the
average
commercial
demand
is
approximately
53.22
cubic
feet
per
square
foot
per
year.
The
City
generates
a
need
for
approximately
1,024,720,473
cubic
feet
of
natural
gas
annually.
The
City
has
little
control
over
either
the
production
or
the
consumption
of
energy.
It
can,
however,
take
advantage
of
State
regulations
aimed
at
reducing
energy
demand,
which
will
benefit
La
Quinta:
Executive
Order
S-‐20-‐04:
Governor
Schwazernegger
signed
Executive
Order
S-‐20-‐04
in
2004
to
reduce
energy
use
in
state-‐
owned
buildings
by
20%
by
2015
from
2003
levels,
and
encourage
the
private
commercial
sector
to
do
the
same.
It
created
the
Green
Building
Action
Plan
to
establish
specific
measures
to
attain
the
targeted
energy
use
reduction,
including
requiring
all
new
State
buildings
and
major
renovations
to
abide
to
certain
LEED
standards;
meet
Energy
Star
rating
of
at
least
75
by
2015;
and
reduce
the
volume
of
energy
purchased
from
the
grid.
The
Action
Plan
also
calls
on
the
California
Public
Utilities
Commission
to
fund
a
campaign
to
inform
the
private
sector
on
ways
to
reduce
energy
use
by
20%.5
Although
private
residential
and
nonresidential
buildings
are
only
encouraged,
and
not
mandated
to
abide
by
policies
of
the
Green
Building
Action
Plan,
they
are
required
to
abide
by
new
Energy
Efficiency
Standards
adopted
by
the
California
Energy
Commission.
CEC
Energy
Efficient
Standards:
The
California
Energy
Commission
adopted
Energy
Efficiency
Standards
for
all
new
residential
and
nonresidential
construction
to
reduce
greenhouse
gases.
All
new
construction
of
residential
and
non-‐
residential
buildings
in
La
Quinta
as
of
January
1,
2010
are
required
to
abide
by
the
Energy
Efficiency
Standards
implemented
through
California
Building
Code
Title
24.
New
homes,
are
required
to
include
at
least
50%
of
kitchen
lighting
be
LED,
compact
fluorescent
or
similar
high
efficiency
fixtures;
5
“State
of
California
Green
Building
Action
Plan,
http://www.energy.ca.gov/greenbuilding/,
accessed
December
10,
2010
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐144
double
pane
windows;
cool
roofs,
and
other
design
techniques
to
reduce
heat
loss.
Non-‐residential
development
is
also
subject
to
new
more
efficient
requirements
for
mechanic
systems,
outdoor
lighting,
sign
lighting
and
refrigerated
warehouses.
CalGreen
Code:
The
CalGreen
Code
was
developed
as
part
of
the
California
Building
Code’s
Title
24,
which
addresses
energy
efficiency.
The
Code
began
as
a
voluntary
program,
but
now
imposes
standards
on
new
construction.
The
2010
CalGreen
Code
provides
voluntary
measures
for
energy
efficiency
for
both
residential
and
nonresidential
construction.
Energy
Reduction
Measures
Reducing
energy
use
in
La
Quinta
will
require
efforts
to
reduce
both
the
demand,
and
change
the
source
of
the
supply.
Programs
to
reduce
demand
must
be
considered
for
both
existing
and
future
development.
Within
the
City,
the
vast
majority
of
land
is
already
built
out.
As
a
result,
the
demand
for
energy
is
generated
by
existing
equipment
and
fixtures,
which
are
older
and
less
efficient.
The
City
can
see
considerable
reductions
in
energy
use
if
older
appliances
and
incandescent
lighting
fixtures
are
replaced
with
high
efficiency
ones.
The
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan
has
been
completed
with
just
those
targets
in
mind.
The
Plan
includes
a
number
of
measures
which
could
significantly
reduce
the
City’s
use
of
energy:
Completing
energy
audits
for
larger
users,
in
conjunction
with
the
Imperial
Irrigation
District.
Installation
of
solar
panels
at
City
facilities.
Solar
panel
retrofitting
programs
for
single
family
homes
and
commercial
projects.
Requiring
Energy
Star
appliances
in
new
homes,
and
partnering
with
other
agencies
to
provide
rebates
for
Energy
Star
appliances
in
existing
homes.
Encouraging
cool
roofs
and
green
roofs
for
new
commercial
projects.
Requiring
that
commercial
buildings
be
wired
for
solar
roof
panels,
to
allow
future
installation.
The
solar
panel
installation
programs
described
above
tie
directly
to
the
needed
change
in
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐145
the
way
power
companies
secure
their
supply.
The
installation
of
solar
panels
in
the
City
will
have
a
direct
impact
on
Imperial
Irrigation
District’s
(IID)
supply.
As
large
scale
solar
farms
are
developed
in
the
southern
California
deserts,
they
will
also
reduce
the
amount
of
energy
generated
by
oil
and
coal.
IID
also
has
invested
in
geo-‐thermal
power
generation
in
Imperial
County,
and
other
alternative
energy
sources.
The
western
Coachella
Valley
has
been,
and
will
continue
to
be
a
source
of
wind
energy.
These
projects
are
likely
to
be
expanded
in
the
future,
and
further
reduce
dependence
on
polluting
power
generation.
Although
the
City
has
limited
direct
ability
to
change
the
power
grid,
it
can
continue
to
educate
and
inform
the
use
of
alternative
power
generation
through
its
intergovernmental
contacts,
including
CVAG,
State
representatives,
and
federal
elected
officials.
The
Built
Environment
The
built
environment
includes
all
roads,
buildings,
and
infrastructure
in
the
City.
How
these
are
designed
and
constructed
directly
affects
how
the
City
impacts
the
environment,
natural
resources,
and
its
residents’
health.
The
General
Plan,
and
this
Element
in
particular,
encourage
a
built
environment
that
promotes
quality
community
design;
and
respect
for
natural
resources.
Community
Design
Community
design
focuses
primarily
on
quality
of
life
issues
–
the
pleasing
appearance
of
a
project;
having
sufficient
parks
to
accommodate
everyone’s
needs;
the
ability
of
residents
to
travel
from
one
location
to
the
other
without
delay
or
impediment;
and
a
balanced
economy
which
provides
jobs
for
residents,
and
sufficient
revenues
to
pay
for
City
services.
Livable
community
design
is
an
extension
of
these
principles,
and
focuses
on
assuring
that
the
City
“lives
within
its
means”
in
all
aspects.
That
is
to
say
that
the
use
of
any
resource
is
balanced
with
its
replenishment.
In
this
case,
“resource”
is
used
in
the
broadest
sense:
water
and
air
are
both
traditional
resources;
and
a
healthy
economy
is
also
considered
a
resource.
Land
Use
The
most
important
commodity
to
any
community
is
land.
Historically,
land
has
been
developed
using
regulations
that
encourage
land
use
segregation,
to
protect
residential
uses
from
more
intense
and
potentially
conflicting
uses.
The
result
is
a
separation
between
residential
areas
and
the
daily
functions
of
life,
including
working,
shopping,
and
recreation.
The
use
of
automobiles
has
encouraged
this
type
of
development
pattern,
and
over
time
has
had
negative
effects
–
air
pollution,
more
and
more
paved
roadways,
and
the
isolation
of
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐146
people
in
the
community.
The
resurgence
of
old
principles
in
land
use
–
principles
by
which
most
European
and
older
American
cities
were
built
-‐-‐
call
for
land
uses
that
are
more
interconnected,
compact,
and
that
offer
a
mix
of
uses,
providing
opportunities
for
people
to
live,
work,
and
shop
within
the
same
area
or
building.
Mixed
use
development
can
be
built
vertically
or
horizontally.
Many
vertically
integrated
mixed-‐use
buildings
provide
for
commercial
retail
on
the
ground
floor,
sometimes
offices
on
the
second
floor,
and
residential
units
above.
Mixed-‐use
developments
can
also
provide
for
retail
and
offices
mixes,
as
well
as
live/work
environments.
Horizontal
mixed
use
projects
are
either
attached
or
detached,
and
are
located
in
a
compact
development.
Many
times
this
includes
commercial
buildings
along
a
main
road,
with
residential
units
directly
behind
the
commercial
building.
The
key
to
any
successful
mixed
use
project
is
the
development
of
inter-‐connections
between
uses,
allowing
residents
and
businesses
to
co-‐exist
without
conflict,
and
providing
residents
with
work
and
shopping
opportunities
that
do
not
include
their
cars.
In
order
for
mixed
use
buildings
to
create
an
environment
which
is
comfortable
for
a
pedestrian,
buildings
should
be
located
next
to
the
sidewalk
or
walkway,
rather
than
behind
large
parking
lots.
Another
key
component
of
pedestrian
friendly
buildings
is
good
building
design
and
proper
scale.
The
combination
of
various
roof
lines,
protecting
storefront
windows,
building
mass
which
does
not
overwhelm
the
pedestrian,
and
unique
architectural
elements
that
provide
visual
relief
are
all
important
to
encourage
pedestrian
activity.
Successful
mixed
use
developments
promote
a
sense
of
place,
and
become
gathering
places
for
residents
and
visitors
to
enjoy.
As
described
in
the
Land
Use
Element,
this
General
Plan
creates
the
Mixed
Use
zoning
designation
for
commercial
lands
along
Highway
111
and
in
the
Village.
Mixed
Use
projects
proposed
in
the
future
must
incorporate
attractive,
useable
and
safe
public
spaces
in
order
to
be
successful.
It
is
also
important
to
note
that
existing
development
can
be
adapted
to
incorporate
these
principles,
and
that
because
the
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐147
majority
of
the
City
is
already
developed,
redevelopment
of
existing
projects
to
incorporate
these
principles
will
be
an
important
component
of
a
successful
livable
La
Quinta
(please
see
“Retrofitting
Existing
Development,”
below).
Resource
Efficient
Building
Design
The
design
and
construction
of
new
buildings
has
been
changing
at
a
rapid
pace.
Technologies
have
evolved
and
changed
to
broadly
expand
the
options
available
to
architects,
designers
and
contractors
when
they
create
a
new
structure.
More
and
more,
designs
incorporate
recycled
materials,
high
efficiency
windows,
alternative
energy
and
other
techniques
which
reduce
the
impact
these
new
buildings
have
on
natural
resources,
and
make
them
more
self-‐sustaining.
Such
building
designs
are
energy
efficient,
conserve
water,
and
are
multi-‐functional.
The
design
innovations
which
have
been
developed
have
also
evolved
into
building
standards
and
guidelines,
including
privately
run
programs
and
adopted
building
codes.
Structured
programs
are
available
for
both
residential
and
commercial/industrial/institutional
designs,
which
provide
a
rating
system
for
the
level
of
sustainability
built
into
a
structure.
The
most
commonly
used
programs
are
currently
the
LEED
(Leadership
in
Energy
and
Environmental
Design)
program
for
non-‐residential
development,
and
the
Green
Building
program
for
residential
structures.
These
programs
are
voluntary,
and
are
likely
to
change
and
evolve
as
new
technologies
are
developed.
The
State
of
California
has
also
amended
its
building
codes
and
developed
the
CalGreen
Codes
to
improve
resource
efficiency
in
building
design.
This
program
is
mandatory,
and
will
lead
to
highly
efficient
building
construction
throughout
the
State,
including
La
Quinta.
The
City’s
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan
also
relies
on
the
use
of
these
improved
efficiency
systems
to
reduce
emissions
in
buildings
in
the
future.
These
programs
and
standards
provide
the
City
with
an
opportunity
to
build
resource
efficiency
into
all
future
building
designs.
Two
energy
reducing
techniques
particularly
effective
in
La
Quinta
are
active
and
passive
solar
design.
Passive
solar
design
relies
on
the
design
and
placement
of
a
building
to
take
advantage
of
the
sun
in
the
winter,
and
to
provide
shade
in
the
summer.
Energy
Star
windows
that
insulate
homes;
the
use
of
thermal
chimneys
to
help
with
air
circulation;
solar
tubes
to
capture
natural
light;
the
use
of
green
roofs
(roofs
that
are
planted
to
insulate
from
heat;
or
white
roofs
that
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐148
reflect
the
sun
and
reduce
heat
gain
are
all
passive
solar
techniques).
Active
solar
design
is
the
use
of
renewable
energy
sources,
such
as
solar
panels,
to
produce
power
and
reduce
energy
consumption.
At
the
City’s
Vista
Dunes
Apartments
project,
solar
panels
were
installed
on
the
roofs
to
reduce
the
tenant
costs
for
electricity.
In
addition
to
residential
roofs,
carports
in
apartment
or
commercial
projects
provide
excellent
places
to
install
solar
panels.
They
are
also
an
excellent
way
to
shade
vehicles
from
the
sun,
and
help
reduce
the
“heat
island”
effect
–
the
increase
in
temperature
that
occurs
when
asphalt
absorbs
the
sun’s
energy.
Promoting
passive
and
active
solar
design
can
result
in
energy
cost-‐savings
for
the
home
or
building
owner,
and
provide
local
opportunities
for
alternative
electricity
production
to
the
IID
system.
Public
Spaces
One
of
the
most
important
features
of
livable
community
design
are
attractive,
engaging,
and
safe
public
spaces.
These
include
walkways
or
sidewalks,
plazas
and
courtyards,
parks
and
public
facilities,
and
the
“in-‐between”
places
or
public
areas
between
buildings
and
private
property.
These
areas
need
to
be
vibrant,
dynamic,
and
active,
and
perhaps
most
importantly,
need
to
make
people
feel
safe.
Public
spaces
should
emphasize
a
destination
or
place,
rather
than
leftover
space.
Creating
place
requires
many
of
the
elements
discussed
earlier,
including
appropriate
land
uses,
and
good
building
design.
The
scale
and
placement
of
buildings
must
define
the
space,
and
also
create
a
sense
of
excitement
or
curiosity
for
the
people
entering
it.
These
spaces
include
the
roadways
that
connect
projects.
As
a
result,
lane
widths,
parking
aisles,
bike
lanes
and
sidewalks
must
be
appropriately
sized
in
relation
to
the
vertical
facades
of
buildings.
Street
trees,
light
standards,
street
furniture
and
signage
must
convey
an
invitation
to
stay
within
that
space.
Storefronts
that
appear
to
be
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐149
part
of
the
walkway
–
with
much
use
of
glass,
or
open
doors
which
blur
the
boundary
between
the
store
and
the
walkway,
the
shade
of
awnings
or
canopies,
and
the
interest
created
by
varying
storefronts
lead
people
from
one
store
to
the
next.
This
also
creates
a
safe
and
comfortable
atmosphere
for
pedestrians
or
bicyclists.
A
plaza
or
square
brings
people
together,
and
should
be
accessed
from
multiple
directions,
which
further
enhances
a
pedestrian’s
ability
to
travel
from
one
place
to
the
other.
Appropriate
design
of
public
spaces
can
also
lead
to
conserving
energy
and
water,
and
enhancing
community
character.
A
livable
public
space
provides
improved
safety
and
security
in
the
community
improves
the
health
of
residents
by
encouraging
more
walking
and
exercise;
and
reduces
impacts
on
air,
energy
and
water
resources.
Transportation
The
emissions
from
automobiles
are
the
single
largest
contributor
to
the
City’s
air
pollution.
As
the
City
works
toward
being
more
self-‐
sustaining,
protecting
its
air
quality
must
be
considered.
The
City’s
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan
includes
a
number
of
strategies
to
reduce
the
amount
of
air
emissions
from
motor
vehicles,
all
of
which
are
designed
to
help
to
reduce
emissions.
A
sample
of
the
measures
considered
in
the
Plan
include:
The
replacement
of
City
and
private
gasoline
vehicles
with
electric
vehicles.
Synchronizing
traffic
signals
to
improve
traffic
flow
and
reduce
idling.
Expending
multiuse
paths
and
golf
cart
routes.
A
large
part
of
the
effort
toward
reducing
impacts
on
air
quality
involves
enabling
alternative
modes
of
transportation
(such
as
trails
for
pedestrians
and
bicyclists,
golf
cart
and
Neighborhood
Electric
Vehicles),
enhancing
access
to
public
transit,
and
improving
connections
between
residences
and
these
alternative
modes
of
transportation.
Alternative
Modes
of
Transportation
One
of
the
best
and
effective
ways
to
reduce
traffic,
and
air
pollution,
in
a
community
is
to
promote
alternative
modes
of
transportation.
Alternative
transportation
includes
ride-‐sharing,
carpooling,
vanpooling,
public
transit,
bicycling,
walking,
using
hybrid
or
electric
vehicles,
golf
carts
and
Neighborhood
Electric
Vehicles
(NEV’s).
NEV’s
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐150
and
golf
carts
are
practical
on
low
volume
streets,
within
gated
communities,
and
for
local
trips.
There
are
two
primary
methods
to
promote
alternative
modes
of
transportation:
providing
infrastructure
to
support
it,
and
promoting
programs
to
encourage
it.
Existing
multi-‐use
paths
throughout
the
city
and
Sphere
of
Influence
can
be
used
for
bicycle,
golf
carts,
and
walking.
Class
I
bicycle
and
golf
cart
lanes,
which
are
off-‐
road
facilities,
are
safe
and
separated
from
traffic,
and
often
used
by
pedestrians
as
well.
The
majority
of
bicycle
and
golf
cart
lanes
in
the
City
currently,
however,
are
Class
II
lanes,
which
are
on-‐road
lanes.
These
are
not
appropriate
for
pedestrians,
but
are
often
located
next
to
sidewalks.
The
City’s
existing
Golf
Cart
Transportation
Program
includes
long
term
plans
for
additional
routes
which
would
connect
much
of
the
City
by
golf
cart.
The
expansion
of
Golf
Cart
Routes
and
multi-‐use
paths,
especially
those
which
interconnect,
is
critical
to
encouraging
people
to
use
them.
It
is
important
that
new
routes
be
safe,
easily
accessible,
and
that
new
and
existing
development
accommodate
the
use
of
alternative
vehicles.
State
legislation
now
requires
that
the
City
consider
all
forms
of
transportation
in
its
street
design,
to
assure
that
alternative
transportation
routes
are
available
and
interconnect
in
the
community.
This
is
an
important
new
development
in
encouraging
alternative
transportation.
(Please
see
the
Circulation
Element
for
a
detailed
discussion
of
Golf
Cart
Routes,
Trails
and
Complete
Streets.)
During
the
life
of
this
General
Plan,
new
technologies
will
evolve
which
will
expand
the
possibilities
for
alternative
vehicles.
Flexibility
in
the
City’s
development
standards
and
policies
will
assure
that
new
development
will
be
able
to
take
advantage
of
these
new
technologies.
Public
transit
is
another
form
of
transportation
which
has
great
potential
for
reducing
air
pollution.
The
City’s
and
region’s
transit
provider
currently
(2010)
operates
an
all-‐alternative
fuel
fleet,
and
has
been
a
leader
in
developing
alternative
fuel
technologies
for
buses.
Service
routes
are
directly
linked
to
demand,
and
have
generally
been
limited
to
major
arterial
roadways.
It
is
important
that
the
City
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐151
encourage
the
expansion
of
the
route
system
to
make
transit
easier
to
access
throughout
the
City.
In
the
short
term,
the
City
may
need
to
consider
locating
park
and
ride
lots
in
existing
or
future
parking
lots
adjacent
to
existing
bus
stops
in
order
to
facilitate
the
interconnection
between
un-‐served
areas
and
major
arterials.
Increased
ridership
will
be
dependent
on
quick
and
easy
access
that
links
neighborhoods
to
local
destinations
such
as
employment
and
recreation
centers.
Alternative
transportation
programs
extend
beyond
bus
service
expansion.
Transportation
Demand
Management,
which
requires
large
employers
to
provide
incentives
and
facilities
to
reduce
the
number
of
employee
vehicle
trips
they
create,
is
described
in
more
detail
in
the
Circulation
Element.
The
City
can
also
develop
programs,
and
require
private
development
to
include
programs,
which
support
alternative
transportation,
including
alternative
fuel
or
charging
stations,
golf
cart
or
NEV
parking,
or
preferred
carpool
parking
areas.
Transit
Oriented
Development
Transit
oriented
developments
are
meant
to
be
dynamic
places
that
provide
mixed
uses,
compact
development,
and
enhanced
public
spaces.
These
features
reinforce
the
positive
experience
for
pedestrians
by
providing
visual
stimulating
environments,
a
sense
of
place,
and
a
sense
of
security.
In
order
to
create
dynamic
places,
transit
oriented
development
should
offer
mixed
uses
that
provide
services
at
all
times
of
the
day,
and
provide
multiple
housing
options
to
encourage
residential
uses.
Existing
shopping
centers
with
large
parking
lots,
and
underutilized
areas
are
perfect
places
to
create
these
environments,
particularly
since
access
to
major
transportation
corridors
are
critical
to
their
success.
Retrofitting
Existing
Development
The
majority
of
the
lands
within
the
City
are
built
out.
Older
buildings
were
developed
with
inefficient
technology.
Existing
residential,
commercial
and
institutional
facilities
can
gradually
become
more
efficient
by
retrofitting
buildings
with
new
water
and
energy
saving
technologies.
There
are
many
incentive
programs
available
for
helping
convert
to
newer
technologies
today,
and
these
types
of
programs
are
sure
to
expand
in
the
future,
as
demand
increases
and
costs
for
alternative
technology
decreases.
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐152
Retrofitting
for
Water
Conservation
Many
developments
were
built
prior
to
the
need
for
conserving
water,
and
include
landscaping
and
irrigation
systems
that
have
a
high
water
demand.
The
CVWD
reports
that
80%
of
water
usage
comes
from
outdoor
landscaping.
The
District
has
created
incentives
for
the
conversion
of
lawns
to
drought
tolerant
ground
covers,
sprinkler
nozzle
replacement,
and
“smart
controllers.”
Smart
Controllers
can
cut
water
usage
by
30%
by
automatically
adjusting
irrigation
systems
based
on
historic
weather
data.
The
City
is
participating
in
the
program
by
fast-‐tracking
the
review
of
landscape
designs
for
these
conversions
in
master
planned
communities
and
commercial
projects.
The
expansion
of
these
programs
will
continue
through
the
buildout
of
the
City,
and
can
be
implemented
as
Sphere
of
Influence
lands
are
annexed
into
the
City.
Retrofitting
Energy
Systems
There
are
many
incentives
available
for
residents
and
businesses
that
install
energy
efficient
appliances,
lights,
and
active
solar
systems.
The
City
and
IID
provide
programs
for
reducing
electricity,
including
energy
audits,
rebates
for
Energy
Star
appliances
and
air
conditioning
units.
Commercial
rebates
are
also
available
for
Energy
Start
thermostats,
commercial
and
industrial
HVAC
equipment,
lighting
and
energy
efficient
motors.
Federal
programs
also
provide
tax
credits
for
business
and
residents
using
Energy
Star
products.
These
rebates
and
tax
incentives
may
change
over
the
years,
but
can
be
effectively
used
to
retrofit
existing
development.
Installing
solar
systems
or
other
renewable
energy
systems
on
buildings
is
another
method
becoming
increasingly
accessible
for
individual
residents
and
businesses.
The
year-‐round
sunshine
in
La
Quinta
makes
it
an
ideal
location
for
solar
technologies.
IID
offers
rebate
incentives
to
qualifying
projects
to
help
reduce
the
initial
cost
of
installing
these
systems.
State
and
federal
programs
also
provide
rebates
and
tax
credits
to
consumers
who
install
solar
energy
systems,
as
well
as
geothermal
pumps,
small
wind
systems,
and
residential
fuel
cell
and
micro-‐turbine
systems.6
The
City
can
continue
to
encourage
the
use
of
energy
saving
incentives
today
and
in
the
future
to
reduce
dependence
on
traditional
electric
power
generation.
6
www.iid.com
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐153
Retrofitting
Building
Design
As
described
above,
the
development
of
mixed
use
projects,
which
bring
residents
closer
to
their
jobs
and
shopping,
can
have
a
tremendous
impact
on
improving
the
City’s
livability.
Although
new
projects
are
the
simplest
way
to
achieve
this
goal,
it
is
also
possible
to
retrofit
existing
projects
to
achieve
the
same
positive
result.
The
range
of
options
is
extensive,
and
can
include
the
conversion
of
a
single
family
home
in
the
Village
to
an
office,
to
major
changes
to
an
existing
shopping
center
to
provide
a
better
environment,
and
incorporate
residential
development.
Existing
development
on
Highway
111,
for
example,
may
have
an
opportunity
to
change
in
the
coming
years.
That
change
may
not
require
demolition,
but
may
occur
through
the
addition
of
buildings
which
provide
greater
flexibility
of
use.
By
adding
to
existing
projects,
the
City
can
expand
its
development
options,
both
residential
and
commercial,
and
reduce
its
dependence
on
the
automobile
at
the
same
time.
New
structures
can
be
wrapped
around
existing
commercial
buildings
to
create
completely
new
environments,
and
create
a
residential
development
next
to
existing
commercial
uses.
Driveways
between
projects
can
be
enhanced
to
provide
better
pedestrian
access,
and
buildings
constructed
adjacent
to
these
new
sidewalks
to
provide
a
pedestrian
scaled
environment.
These
projects
can
also
be
connected,
even
across
Highway
111,
by
street
trees
and
other
landscaping
elements
which
make
the
area
more
pedestrian
friendly.
Please
also
see
the
Land
Use
Element
for
a
more
detailed
description
of
the
potential
for
mixed
use
development
in
existing
commercial
areas,
including
the
Village
and
Highway
111.
The
City
also
has
a
number
of
walled
and
gated
communities,
many
of
which
are
adjacent
to
existing
commercial
development,
schools
or
other
public
facilities.
In
most
cases,
however,
these
adjacent
facilities
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐154
are
not
directly
accessible.
A
simple
design
retrofit
can
encourage
pedestrian
and
bicycle
access
to
these
facilities:
the
creation
of
a
pedestrian
gate
in
a
wall
can
eliminate
the
need
to
drive
through
and
around
to
that
same
adjacent
commercial,
school
or
public
use.
Retrofitting
City
Facilities
The
City
has
an
opportunity
to
lead
by
example
in
developing
and
implementing
resource
efficient
policies
and
programs.
La
Quinta
has
made
strides
towards
this
goal
by
implementing
its
Landscaping
Ordinance,
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan
and
Sustainability
Program.
These
programs
must
be
flexible
and
have
the
ability
to
evolve
and
grow
over
time,
as
funds
permit
and
opportunities
arise.
Please
also
see
the
Air
Quality
Element.
The
City
should
regularly
monitor
and
amend
the
Landscape
Ordinance
to
abide
by
new
technologies
and
requirements
of
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District,
and
should
retrofit
existing
City
properties
and
new
buildings
with
water
saving
irrigation
technology,
recycled
water
when
possible,
and
reduced
use
of
turf
in
landscaping.
The
City
can
also
reduce
indoor
water
use
by
installing
water
efficient
fixtures,
such
as
low
flow
toilets,
sinks,
and
showers,
provided
in
California
GreenCodes.
Energy
conservation
should
also
be
a
priority.
Many
of
the
measures
used
to
conserve
energy
will
also
help
the
City
meet
the
targeted
reductions
in
the
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan.
The
Plan
provides
a
list
of
measures,
such
as
the
installation
of
solar
panels
on
building
rooftops
and
carports,
upgrading
HVAC
units
with
energy
efficient
systems,
and
converting
the
City’s
fleet
of
vehicles
to
alternative
energy
vehicles.
The
City
can
capitalize
on
rebate
programs
and
other
incentives
to
reduce
costs
associated
with
these
programs.
The
City
should
encourage
carpooling
and
bicycling
to
work
for
City
employees,
and
work
with
SunLine
Transit
to
improve
bus
routes.
Incentives
such
as
priority
parking
for
carpools,
or
free
bus
passes
for
transit
travelers
can
change
the
staff’s
behavior
and
help
to
reduce
air
pollution
in
the
City.
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐155
A
Healthy
City
Across
California,
families
are
continuing
to
face
rising
health
care
costs
and
diminished
quality
of
life
associated
with
poor
dietary
habits,
which
have
led
to
health
problems
such
as
obesity
and
increased
diabetes
and
related
illness,
particularly
in
children.
As
a
result
of
these
escalating
costs,
cities
are
beginning
to
understand
their
role
in
helping
promote
healthier
lifestyles
for
their
residents.
There
has
been
a
growing
awareness
that
land
use
policy
and
the
built
environment
are
linked
to
public
health
issues,
and
that
cities
have
the
ability
to
positively
influence
both.
The
effort
centers
on
the
principle
that
cities
can
influence
comprehensive
policy
to
address
improving
the
health
of
their
residents.
The
principles
emphasize
that
a
healthy
city
requires
a
multi-‐
disciplinary
approach
which
ranges
from
project
design
to
access
to
healthy
food.
The
issues
associated
with
a
healthy
city
are
far
ranging,
and
include:
1. Parks
and
recreation
facilities
in
all
neighborhoods,
accessible
to
all
residents.
2. Quality
housing
for
all
residents,
at
prices
all
income
groups
can
afford.
3. Access
to
allow
all
residents
adequate
medical
services.
4. Access
to
healthy
foods.
5. Jobs
in
reasonable
proximity
to
residents’
homes.
6. Neighborhoods
and
public
places.
7. An
interconnected,
complete
and
varied
transportation
system
that
provides
access
to
transit,
walking
and
bicycling
options.
8. A
healthy
environment
free
of
pollution
or
health
hazards.
Access
to
healthy
foods,
pedestrian
friendly
environments
and
adequate
recreation
are
all
factors
related
to
improving
the
health
of
residents.
For
example,
a
city
can
improve
its
residents’
health
by
encouraging
inter-‐connected
walking
paths
in
and
through
proposed
projects;
developing
a
community
garden
in
a
city
park;
and
implementing
exercise
classes
at
its
community
center.
Cities
can
also
influence
other
agencies
to
improve
health
–
working
with
school
districts
to
change
lunch
options
in
schools
to
include
more
fresh
fruit
and
vegetables;
or
encouraging
major
employers
to
include
workout
rooms
in
their
buildings.
Of
particular
concern
in
cities
is
the
access
to
fresh
and
healthy
foods
for
poorer
populations.
Reaching
those
economic
segments
through
community
gardens
and
farmers
markets,
as
well
as
school
lunch
programs,
is
critical
to
the
effort.
The
principles
of
a
healthy
city
tie
closely
to
those
of
resource
efficient
development
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐156
and
a
livable
community,
and
should
all
work
together
to
improve
the
quality
of
life
for
all
residents.
On
a
more
local
level,
the
Healthy
Eating
Active
Living
(HEAL)
Cities
Campaign
was
recently
established
to
help
city
officials
adopt
policies
that
promote
healthy
environments
and
physical
activity
within
their
community.
In
2010,
La
Quinta
joined
HEAL,
and
committed
to
promoting
the
Campaign’s
healthy
living
policies.
The
City
has
committed
to
promoting
healthier
food
choices,
providing
adequate
recreation
and
wellness
opportunities,
and
regulating
the
built
environment
to
encourage
physical
activity.
A
number
of
programs
and
activities
can
be
implemented
to
promote
and
expand
the
HEAL
program
in
La
Quinta,
including:
Promoting
farmers’
markets.
Farmers
markets
bring
fresh
fruits,
vegetables,
meats,
and
fresh
baked
goods
directly
to
their
consumers.
The
City
currently
has
a
Farmers
Market
in
Old
Town,
and
should
encourage
others
in
activity
centers
in
other
parts
of
the
City,
to
broaden
their
reach.
Creating
a
community
garden.
Community
gardens
provide
space
in
public
parks
(or
at
the
Civic
Center)
for
residents
to
grow
their
own
fruits
and
vegetables.
They
are
also
great
public
spaces
for
social
interaction
and
learning.
Promoting
recreational
activity.
La
Quinta
provides
numerous
parks,
trails
and
open
spaces
for
residents
to
walk,
play
sports,
and
enjoy
the
outdoors.
The
Fitness
Center
and
Senior
Center
also
provide
a
range
of
options,
both
through
organized
classes
and
individual
exercise.
Pedestrian
connectivity
with
residential
areas
is
vital
for
encouraging
residents
to
use
these
facilities.
Providing
safe
routes
to
school.
The
State’s
Safe
Routes
to
School
Program
provides
funding
for
improvements
which
make
children’s
walk
or
bicycle
ride
to
school
safer.
The
City
has
constructed
several
such
improvements,
and
will
continue
to
apply
for
funding
in
the
future.
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐157
The
City
is
also
implementing
HEAL
with
its
own
staff,
and
has
offered:
Employee
Health
Fairs
and
Health
Education
Information.
Fitness
programs
for
employees
that
may
include
exercise,
physical
activity
through
walking,
and
weight
loss
components.
Daily
15
minute
walking
breaks
in
the
Civic
Center
Campus.
An
Employee
Assistance
Program
for
help
with
addictions,
work
or
relationship
conflicts,
emotional,
legal,
financial
and
health
issues.
Use
of
the
La
Quinta
Fitness
Center.
The
employee
wellness
programs
enacted
by
the
City
can
spread
throughout
the
community.
City
employees
who
participate
in
health
programs
will
be
able
to
share
their
experiences
and
the
benefits
of
healthy
living
with
friends
and
family.
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
Expanding
the
City’s
livability
will
be
an
ongoing
challenge
throughout
the
build
out
of
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence.
It
will
require
a
multi-‐pronged
approach
which
affects
and
improves
all
components
of
the
community,
existing
and
future.
Implementing
such
principles
in
the
City
will
change
and
improve
its
character,
providing
the
opportunity
to
tie
existing
neighborhoods
to
new
mixed
use
and
commercial
projects.
The
built
environment
has
a
tremendous
effect
on
residents’
health
and
safety,
and
planning
for
and
constructing
a
built
environment
that
encourages
walking,
biking,
and
other
forms
of
activity
is
critical
to
improving
the
quality
of
life
for
everyone
in
La
Quinta.
The
success
of
future
projects
is
entirely
tied
to
their
safety
and
connectivity
–
paths,
trails
and
sidewalks
that
are
unsafe,
do
not
connect
to
interesting
places
or
do
not
connect
at
all
are
of
no
value.
The
City
can
play
an
important
role
in
assessing
the
safety
and
connectivity
of
public
trails
and
sidewalks,
and
including
the
construction
of
missing
or
damaged
sections/connections
in
the
Capital
Improvement
Program.
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐158
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
SC-‐1
A
community
that
provides
the
best
possible
quality
of
life
for
all
its
residents.
v Policy
SC-‐1.1
Continue
to
work
with
the
CVWD
on
water
conservation
measures.
Program
SC-‐1.1.a:
Review
the
Landscape
Ordinance
every
two
years,
and
update
as
necessary
to
maintain
consistency
with
State
and
CVWD
standards.
Program
SC
1.1.b:
Develop
joint
incentive
programs
with
CVWD
for
water
conservation
programs,
including
landscaping
retrofits
for
individual
homes
and
master
planned
projects,
irrigation
improvements
and
indoor
plumbing
fixtures.
Consider
allocating
City
funds
to
these
incentive
programs
on
a
matching
basis
with
CVWD.
v Policy
SC-‐1.2
Reduce
water
consumption
at
a
minimum
consistent
with
the
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan
(also
see
Air
Quality
Element).
Program
SC-‐1.2.a:
Implement
quantifiable
water
conservation
measures
at
all
City
facilities.
Program
SC-‐1.2.b:
Consider
financial
incentives
for
new
development
and
existing
homes
and
projects
as
funds
allow.
Program
SC-‐1.2.c:
Aggressively
pursue
grants
and
other
outside
funding
sources
for
City-‐funded
and
private
sector
water
conservation
improvements.
v Policy
SC-‐1.3
Encourage
the
use
of
more
environmentally
friendly
storm
water
management
techniques
such
as
bioswales,
permeable
surfaces
and
other
methods
as
they
are
developed,
in
all
new
development.
Program
SC-‐1.3.a:
The
Public
Works
Department
shall
prepare
and
distribute
materials
on
environmentally
friendly
storm
water
management
techniques
for
new
development.
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐159
v 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.
Program
SC-‐1.4.b:
Revise
the
Transportation
Demand
Ordinance
to
current
standards,
and
implement
it
with
all
new
qualifying
projects.
Program
SC-‐1.4.c:
Develop
programs
to
encourage
and
incentivize
the
installation
of
energy
efficient
appliances
and
fixtures,
green
roofs,
white
roofs
and
solar
panels
on
residential,
commercial,
institutional
and
resort
buildings.
v 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.
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.
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐160
v Policy
SC-‐1.6
Expand
the
City’s
alternative
transportation
network.
Program
SC-‐1.6.a:
Assess
the
current
gaps
in
the
City’s
multi-‐use
path
and
sidewalk
system,
and
program
improvements
to
connect
those
gaps
into
the
Capital
Improvement
Program.
Program
SC-‐1.6.b:
Encourage
existing
walled
communities
to
include
pedestrian
gates
and
paths
to
adjacent
development
to
improve
connectivity.
Program
SC-‐1.6.c:
Expand
the
Golf
Cart
Routes
to
interconnect
throughout
the
City
to
the
greatest
extent
possible.
Program
SC-‐1.6.d:
Work
with
SunLine
Transit
Agency
to
expand
service
into
La
Quinta
neighborhoods
ahead
of
demand.
v 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.
v Policy
SC-‐1.8
Expand
the
City’s
participation
in
Healthy
City
programs.
Program
SC-‐1.8.a:
Implement
Healthy
City
principles
throughout
the
community,
to
the
greatest
extent
feasible.
LIVABLE
COMMUNITY
II-‐161
Program
SC-‐1.8.b:
Coordinate
park
and
trail
improvement
plans
to
assure
connectivity
between
parks
and
the
neighborhoods
they
serve.
Program
SC-‐1.8.c:
Encourage
farmers’
markets
outside
the
Village,
accessible
to
all
parts
of
the
City.
Program
SC-‐1.8.d:
Plan
and
implement
a
community
garden
project
at
the
Civic
Center.
Monitor
its
success,
and
implement
at
other
City
parks
if
successful.
Program
SC-‐1.8.e:
Work
with
Desert
Sands
and
Coachella
Valley
School
Districts
to
improve
food
selection
in
lunch
programs,
exercise
programs,
and
Safe
Routes
to
School
programs.
RELATED
GOALS
As
described
above,
this
Element
relates
to
others
in
this
General
Plan.
The
following
Goals,
and
their
associated
policies
and
programs,
are
closely
related
to
those
of
this
Element.
GOAL
LU-‐2:
High
quality
design
that
complements
and
enhances
the
City.
GOAL
LU-‐3:
Safe
and
identifiable
neighborhoods
that
provide
a
sense
of
place.
GOAL
ED-‐3:
Innovative
land
uses
in
the
Village
and
on
Highway
111.
GOAL
CIR-‐2:
A
circulation
system
that
includes
connected
transit,
alternative
vehicle,
bicycle
and
pedestrian
networks.
GOAL
PR-‐1:
A
comprehensive
system
of
parks,
and
recreation
facilities
and
services
that
meet
the
active
and
passive
needs
of
all
residents
and
visitors.
GOAL
AQ-‐1:
A
reduction
in
all
air
emissions
generated
within
the
City.
GOAL
WR-‐1:
The
efficient
use
and
conservation
of
the
City’s
water
resources.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐163
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
PURPOSE
The
Economic
Development
Element
is
intended
to
establish
a
framework
for
the
maintenance
and
expansion
of
a
healthy
economic
climate
in
La
Quinta.
The
City’s
economic
health
is
vital
to
everyone
–
residents,
business
people,
and
visitors.
As
such,
this
Element
is
intended
to
guide
decision
makers
to
assure
that
the
City
offers
a
balanced
job
market
for
its
residents;
high
quality
retail
and
office
developments
for
business
owners;
and
healthy
sales
and
property
tax
revenues
to
fund
City
services,
programs
and
activities.
This
Element
has
been
prepared
at
a
time
when
the
City’
economy
has
been
significantly
impacted
by
the
recession
of
2008-‐2012.
Economic
cycles,
however,
will
result
in
good
and
bad
economic
times
in
the
City
during
the
life
of
this
General
Plan.
In
2012,
the
City
has
the
opportunity
to
plan
for
the
next
economic
upturn
and
assure
that
the
City’s
economy
expands
and
is
successful
when
growth
once
again
occurs.
This
Element
also
provides
guidance
to
assure
that
the
City’s
economy
provides
sufficient
revenues
to
maintain
and
improve
City
services
through
2035.
The
Economic
Development
Element
is
most
closely
tied
to
the
Land
Use
Element,
insofar
as
the
pattern
and
balance
of
land
uses
in
the
City
are
key
to
assuring
a
healthy
economy.
It
is
also
associated
with
the
Circulation
Element
–
both
in
the
need
to
provide
easy
access
to
job
centers
and
shopping,
and
the
need
to
generate
adequate
revenue
to
fund
the
high
cost
of
roadway
maintenance
and
improvements;
the
Livable
Community
Element,
which
strives
to
establish
a
framework
for
a
resource
efficient
environment
in
all
aspects
of
City
life;
and
other
Elements,
including
Parks
and
Recreation,
Open
Space
and
Housing,
which
all
are
associated
with
quality
of
life.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐164
The
goals,
policies
and
programs
provided
in
this
Element
are
intended
to
guide
future
economic
growth
in
the
City
in
the
broadest
sense.
The
City
utilizes
a
number
of
tools
to
foster
economic
growth.
In
particular,
the
City
adopts
an
annual
Economic
Development
Plan,
which
contains
goals
and
activities
to
help
stimulate
the
local
economy
and
bring
new
investment
to
La
Quinta.
BACKGROUND
The
City
has
evolved
from
a
small
residential
suburb
providing
affordable
housing
and
limited
commercial
opportunities,
to
a
community
that
provides
a
broad
range
of
housing
for
permanent
and
seasonal
residents;
and
one
that
is
a
destination
for
regional
shopping.
The
City
has
historically
had
three
dominant
economic
sectors
around
which
its
economy
has
revolved:
resort
hotels,
golf
and
retail
commercial.
The
growth
in
these
sectors
have
spurred
development
of
all
types
in
the
City.
They
will
continue
to
be
an
important
part
of
the
City’s
economy.
As
a
basis
for
this
Element,
a
brief
summary
of
statistical
data
on
the
City’s
population,
housing
and
employment
growth
is
provided
below.
This
demographic
data
clearly
demonstrates
the
significant
growth
the
City
has
experienced
in
the
recent
past.
Population
According
to
the
US
Census,
population
in
the
City
increased
from
12,470
in
1990,
to
24,084
in
2000,
and
37,467
in
2010.
This
represents
a
93.1%
increase
between
1990
and
2000,
and
a
55.5%
increase
between
2000
and
2010.
The
Southern
California
Association
of
Governments
(SCAG)
estimates
that
the
City’s
population
will
reach
41,625
in
2020,
and
46,297
in
2035.
The
median
age
of
the
City’s
population,
45.6
years,
shows
that
La
Quinta
is
home
to
a
number
of
families,
particularly
since
24%
of
the
City’s
total
population
is
under
19
years
of
age.
Housing
Units
The
2010
Census
determined
that
there
are
23,489
housing
units
in
the
City,
and
that
the
total
housing
vacancy
rate
stands
at
36.9%.
It
is
important
to
note
that
the
Census
estimates
the
seasonal
vacancy
rate
at
27.5%,
and
that
the
City’s
net
vacancy
rate
is
12.4%.
The
vacancy
rate
highlights
the
importance
of
the
seasonal
resident
to
La
Quinta’s
housing
market.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐165
The
vast
majority
of
housing
units
(90%)
are
attached
or
detached
single
family
homes.
The
balance
are
multi-‐family
homes
(9%),
and
mobile
homes
(1%).
As
with
other
economic
sectors,
the
City
has
experienced
a
significant
decrease
in
the
number
of
new
homes
constructed
in
recent
years.
From
2010
to
January
2012,
there
were
96
housing
units
of
all
types
(single
family
homes,
apartments
and
condominiums)
built
in
the
City.
By
comparison,
8,473
housing
units
were
built
from
2000
to
2009,
or
an
average
of
almost
850
units
annually.
As
growth
in
residential
development
will
spur
commercial
growth,
the
housing
market’s
recovery
will
be
an
indicator
of
improved
economic
conditions
throughout
all
market
segments.
Households
and
Income
The
2010
Census
identified
14,820
households
in
the
City,
which
translates
to
an
average
household
size
of
2.5
persons.
SCAG
estimates
that
there
will
be
16,580
households
in
La
Quinta
in
2020,
and
17,948
households
in
the
City
in
2035.
It
is
estimated
that
the
City’s
median
household
income
in
2010
was
$72,181,
and
per
capita
income
stood
at
$43,450.
The
median
household
income
has
increased
significantly
in
the
last
twenty
years,
and
the
City
now
ranks
higher
than
the
County
median
household
income,
which
stood
at
$54,296
in
2010.
Employment
In
1990,
there
were
5,368
employed
residents
in
La
Quinta.
By
2010,
that
number
had
risen
to
over
19,700.
As
shown
in
Table
II-‐13,
the
majority
of
residents,
or
61.6%,
work
in
white-‐collar
jobs,
followed
by
service
and
sales
jobs,
and
blue
collar
jobs.
The
largest
sector
of
employment
is
Sales
(14.61%),
followed
by
Management
(13.25%).
Please
note
that
this
Table
shows
employment
regardless
of
whether
the
job
is
in
La
Quinta
or
elsewhere.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐166
Table
II-‐13
Employment
by
Occupation,
2010
Occupation
Employed
%
of
Employed
Architect/Engineer
189
0.96%
Arts/Entertainment/Sports
646
3.27%
Building
Grounds
Maintenance
1,002
5.07%
Business/Financial
Operations
958
4.85%
Community/Social
Services
430
2.18%
Computer/Mathematical
125
0.63%
Construction/Extraction
1,343
6.79%
Education/Training/Library
1,031
5.22%
Farm/Fish/Forestry
73
0.37%
Food
Prep/Serving
1,758
8.89%
Health
Practitioner/Technicians
872
4.41%
Healthcare
Support
268
1.36%
Maintenance/Repair
430
2.18%
Legal
248
1.25%
Life/Physical/Social
Science
85
0.43%
Management
2,620
13.25%
Office/Admin
Support
2,080
10.52%
Production
442
2.24%
Protective
Services
618
3.13%
Sales/Related
2,889
14.61%
Personal
Care/Service
1,168
5.91%
Transportation/Moving
494
2.50%
Total
19,769
100.00%
Source:
Nielsen
Claritas,
December,
2010.
The
major
employers
in
La
Quinta
are
shown
in
Table
II-‐14.
The
recent
economic
downturn
will
have
affected
the
data
in
this
Table,
as
the
school
district
has
experienced
significant
budgetary
reductions,
but
the
importance
of
retail
and
resort
industry
employers
is
still
clearly
significant
in
the
City.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐167
Table
II-‐14
Major
Employers
in
La
Quinta
Employer
Employment
Desert
Sands
Unified
School
District
2,471
La
Quinta
Resort
&
Club
1,600
WalMart
Supercenter
800
Rancho
La
Quinta
700
PGA
West
285
Imperial
Irrigation
District
150
Lowe’s
Home
Improvement
150
Home
Depot
100
Stater
Brothers
100
Tradition
Golf
Club
100
Source:
County
of
Riverside
EDA
2009
Economic
Drivers
Three
economic
sectors
have
been
key
to
the
City’s
growth:
tourism,
golf
and
retail
sales.
Tourism
and
the
Resort
Industry
La
Quinta
has
benefited
from
the
Coachella
Valley’s
climate,
physical
environment
and
reputation
in
the
tourism
industry.
Although
for
many
years
the
City
battled
the
perception
of
“Palm
Springs”
as
the
only
tourism
destination
in
the
region,
a
number
of
factors,
and
aggressive
marketing,
have
allowed
the
City
to
develop
its
own
identity
as
a
tourist
destination.
The
relatively
low
intensity
of
development
in
the
City
and
region,
its
wildlife
and
open
space,
and
the
lack
of
congestion
throughout
the
Valley
relative
to
more
urban
areas
have
all
served
to
promote
short
and
long
term
visitors’
interest
in
the
City.
Tourism
in
the
City
is
not
limited
to
hotel
development.
Resort
residential
development
is
also
an
important
economic
driver
in
the
City.
The
regional
demand
for
second
homes
and
vacation
homes,
as
well
as
retirement
housing,
have
resulted
in
a
number
of
golf
and
recreation
oriented
projects
geared
to
part-‐time
residency.
The
City
is
home
to
a
number
of
seasonal
residences,
which
represent
27.5%
of
the
City’s
housing
stock
and
increase
the
population
by
almost
50%
each
winter;
and
fractional
ownership
or
timeshare
projects,
which
attract
tourists
for
shorter
periods,
ranging
from
a
week
to
a
month.
Resort
residential
development
began
at
PGA
West,
but
has
expanded
to
include
golf
course
country
club
developments
such
as
Rancho
La
Quinta,
retirement
communities
such
as
Trilogy,
and
exclusive
communities
such
as
The
Hideaway.
The
City's
growing
reputation
as
a
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐168
destination
resort
community
adds
depth
to
the
economy,
while
generating
lower
annualized
demand
for
roads,
public
services
and
utilities.
Golf
Courses
and
SilverRock
Resort
The
City’s
winter
residents
and
visitors
have
long
been
attracted
to
the
many
golf
courses
that
have
been
developed
in
the
City.
Much
of
the
single
family
residential
development
in
the
City
is
built
around
these
golf
courses.
Golf
is
a
revenue
generating
industry
in
the
City,
both
in
terms
of
retail
sales,
and
in
terms
of
the
increased
disposable
income
golf-‐oriented
visitors
and
residents
bring
to
the
City.
Golf
has
also
been
a
successful
marketing
tool
for
the
City.
The
City
promotes
golf
and
recreation
in
its
marketing
efforts
across
the
country.
In
addition,
professional
golf
tournaments
in
La
Quinta
have
raised
the
public
awareness
of
the
City
as
a
destination.
The
SilverRock
Resort
represents
a
potentially
significant
economic
development
opportunity
for
the
City.
SilverRock
is
a
525
acre
property
on
which
the
City’s
golf
course
has
been
developed.
The
course
has
hosted
professional
and
amateur
tournaments,
and
has
been
a
featured
course
in
the
PGA’s
Bob
Hope
Classic
in
the
past
(the
tournament
is
now
the
Humana
Challenge).
The
golf
course
is
the
first
phase
of
an
adopted
Specific
Plan
for
the
entire
property.
The
Specific
Plan
includes
two
hotels,
one
a
boutique
hotel,
as
well
as
resort
retail
and
related
development.
Prior
to
the
current
economic
downturn,
the
City
had
actively
marketed
the
hotel
and
resort
commercial
development,
and
was
actively
working
toward
its
implementation.
The
current
market
has
stalled
these
development
plans,
but
the
City
can
expect
that
in
the
next
economic
cycle,
the
development
opportunities
offered
by
SilverRock
will
be
significant.
It
will
be
important
to
conduct
outreach
activities
with
potential
developers,
local
stakeholders,
event
sponsors,
and
the
local
community
to
ensure
future
development
of
SilverRock
embraces
current
and
future
trends,
such
as
health
and
wellness,
in
order
to
remain
relevant.
As
the
revenue
potential
for
this
property
is
tied
to
golf,
the
City’s
continued
marketing
of
the
golf
course,
and
its
use
for
professional
and
amateur
events,
will
continue
to
be
significant
to
the
City’s
long
term
economic
health.
The
land
around
the
existing
golf
course
is
planned
for
hotel
and
resort
retail
development.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐169
Retail
Commercial
Development
In
the
last
two
decades,
the
most
significant
growth
in
the
City
has
been
its
retail
sales.
In
1995,
there
were
$121
million
in
taxable
sales
in
the
City.
By
the
year
2000,
that
number
had
grown
to
$318
million;
and
to
$683
million
in
2005.
Even
in
recessionary
times,
the
City’s
total
taxable
sales
in
2009,
the
last
year
for
which
full
year
data
is
available,
were
$623
million.
Commercial
lands
are
identified
throughout
the
City.
Approximately
65%
of
all
commercial
land
in
the
City
is
developed
in
2012.
There
are
184
acres
of
vacant
General
Commercial
land
in
the
City,
139
acres
of
vacant
Tourist
Commercial
land,
and
13
acres
of
vacant
Village
Commercial
land.
In
the
future,
the
expansion
of
commercial
development
will
include
not
only
Highway
111,
Washington
Street
and
Jefferson
Street,
but
also
commercial
lands
identified
on
the
Land
Use
Map
in
the
southeastern
portion
of
the
City,
including
lands
on
Madison
Street,
and
on
the
east
side
of
Monroe
Street,
in
the
Sphere
of
Influence.
Retail
commercial
development
has
focused
historically
in
two
areas:
the
most
significant
expansion
has
occurred
along
Highway
111,
and
the
Village
has
developed
a
reputation
as
a
specialty
retail
center.
Both
these
areas
will
continue
to
play
an
important
role
in
the
City’s
economy.
Highway
111
The
Highway
111
corridor
represents
the
majority
of
retail
activity
in
the
City.
It
has
been,
and
will
continue
to
be
the
focus
of
regional
shopping,
and
can
be
expected
to
continue
to
attract
national
retailers.
The
challenge
in
the
long
term
will
be
its
redevelopment,
as
the
majority
of
the
corridor
is
now
developed,
and
pressure
for
expansion
will
continue
as
the
City
and
region
grows.
Development
along
Highway
111
has
been
dominated
by
shopping
centers,
auto
dealerships
and
big-‐box
retail
pads.
As
retail
development
continues
to
change
in
the
future,
the
pattern
of
development
along
Highway
111
may
change
as
well.
Automobile
dealerships
contribute
significantly
to
the
City’s
revenues.
In
2010,
there
were
$43.3
million
dollars
in
vehicle
and
auto
parts
sales
in
the
City,
down
significantly
from
2005’s
$121.9
million.
In
the
recent
recession,
the
difficulties
of
the
auto
industry
as
a
whole
were
reflected
in
the
City’s
dealerships
as
well.
The
City
has
traditionally
supported
existing
dealerships,
and
actively
recruited
new
ones,
and
will
continue
to
do
so.
Their
continued
success
and
expansion
will
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐170
contribute
to
the
City’s
long
term
financial
health.
Vacant
land
within
the
La
Quinta
Auto
Center,
and
lands
planned
for
auto
dealerships
in
the
Dune
Palms
and
Highway
111
Specific
Plan
must
be
preserved
for
these
uses;
and
active
recruiting
to
develop
these
properties
will
continue
to
be
an
important
economic
development
strategy.
Highway
111
also
provides
the
City
with
the
best
opportunity
for
Mixed
Use
development
–
or
more
specifically
the
integration
of
more
intense
residential
development.
Its
access
to
transit,
and
proximity
to
employment
centers,
schools
and
other
services
make
it
ideal
for
mixed
use
projects.
These
projects
in
the
future
may
include
retail
below
residential
units,
but
could
also
include
residential
projects
next
to
existing
or
future
commercial
development.
Mixed
Use
projects
serve
multiple
purposes:
they
bring
residents
close
to
shopping
and
employment
opportunities,
which
is
good
for
the
businesses
because
their
customers
are
close
at
hand;
they
lower
the
number
of
vehicle
trips
by
allowing
people
to
walk
between
home
and
work
or
home
and
shopping;
and
they
help
the
City
meet
its
regional
planning
goals
established
in
the
Southern
California
Association
of
Governments
Sustainable
Community
Strategies.
The
Land
Use
Element
and
the
Livable
Community
Element
provide
greater
detail
on
Mixed
Use
development
in
the
Highway
111
corridor.
The
Village
The
City
has
also
seen
the
expansion
of
the
Village
as
a
specialty
retail
district
with
a
focus
on
cultural
and
special
events
and
venues.
The
Village
has
established
its
identity
in
part
through
the
Civic
Center
and
Park,
which
also
includes
the
Library
and
Senior
Center;
the
La
Quinta
Arts
Festival,
which
occurs
on
the
Civic
Center
campus
annually;
the
development
of
the
Old
Town
shopping
and
dining
area,
which
has
provided
a
focus
for
the
specialty
retail
market;
and
through
the
conversion
of
single
family
homes
to
offices
and
restaurants.
Critical
to
its
economic
health
is
the
expansion
of
this
retail
niche,
and
the
continued
attractiveness
of
residential
living
in
a
pedestrian-‐friendly
environment.
The
Village
can
provide
another
opportunity
for
Mixed
Use
development
in
the
City,
but
on
a
completely
different
scale
than
the
Highway
111
corridor.
Mixed
Use
development
in
this
neighborhood
will
be
of
a
smaller
scale,
consistent
with
the
commercial
development
in
the
area,
and
will
integrate
with
the
existing
mix
of
single
family
homes
and
smaller
apartment
projects
that
already
exist
in
the
area.
The
Village
is
also
the
commercial
area
for
the
Cove,
being
located
at
the
base
of
the
Cove.
It
has
taken
advantage
of
this
position
in
the
past,
and
will
continue
to
do
so
into
the
future.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐171
The
Village
will
continue
to
be
challenged
by
its
isolated
location,
and
its
small
land
area.
It
has
not
yet
developed
to
its
full
potential,
and
can
provide
La
Quinta’s
residents
and
visitors
with
a
greater
range
of
shops
and
businesses,
all
located
in
easy
walking
distance
for
most.
As
it
expands,
the
Village
will
need
to
include
pedestrian
and
golf
cart
facilities,
shaded
paseos
and
seating,
and
an
interconnection
of
projects
that
make
it
an
all
day
destination
for
shoppers
and
business
people.
The
Village
also
will
benefit
from
offering
full
time
residents
jobs,
shopping
and
entertainment
opportunities,
so
that
activity
and
revenues
are
not
dependent
on
visitors
and
part-‐time
residents.
Please
also
see
the
Land
Use
and
Livable
Community
Elements.
The
City’s
Economic
Development
Plan
The
City
maintains
an
Economic
Development
Plan,
updated
annually,
that
helps
guide
its
economic
development
efforts.
The
Plan’s
primary
focus
is
on
the
long
term
economic
health
of
the
City,
as
opposed
to
immediate
short
term
economic
influences.
As
such,
it
provides
the
City’s
decision
makers
and
staff
with
a
vision
for
the
economic
future
of
the
City.
However,
since
the
Plan
is
updated
annually,
it
allows
the
City
to
consider
changes
to
its
economic
development
policies
based
on
current
trends.
The
Plan
supports
the
City’s
active
involvement
in
economic
development.
Historically,
this
has
included
active
recruiting
of
businesses,
the
commitment
of
funds
to
assist
with
infrastructure
and
other
costs,
and
working
closely
with
property
owners,
developers,
and
brokers
in
the
recruitment
and
retention
of
businesses,
and
the
diversification
of
the
City’s
economy
to
take
advantage
of
emerging
economic
trends,
and
fill
gaps
in
the
existing
market.
As
the
City
continues
to
grow
and
mature,
the
Plan
must
also
address
changes
in
the
Highway
111
corridor,
and
the
reuse
and
redevelopment
of
retail
centers
in
this
area.
Changing
Municipal
Revenues
The
most
significant
challenge
for
the
City
in
the
short
term
implementation
of
the
Economic
Development
Plan
is
the
2012
loss
of
the
La
Quinta
Redevelopment
Agency.
The
Agency
contributed
significantly
to
the
City’s
ability
to
promote
economic
development
projects,
and
its
elimination
will
significantly
impact
the
City’s
ability
to
participate
in
economic
development
through
infrastructure
investment
and
land
acquisition.
The
City
must
look
to
creative
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐172
partnerships
and
financing
models
in
the
future
to
replace
the
Agency’s
efforts.
In
addition,
the
City
has
a
vested
interest
in
encouraging
legislative
efforts
to
reintroduce
redevelopment
or
another
economic
development
tool
at
the
State
level
in
the
future.
The
City’s
economy
directly
impacts
government’s
ability
to
provide
services.
La
Quinta
relies
on
a
large
number
of
revenue
sources
from
regional
and
state
programs
and
agencies,
but
is
dependent
on
three
sources
of
revenue
for
general
services:
sales
tax,
property
tax
and
transient
occupancy
tax.
Although
all
revenues
have
been
reduced
in
recent
years,
Table
II-‐15
shows
the
major
sources
of
revenue
received
by
the
City.
Table
II-‐15
Major
General
Fund
Revenue
Sources,
2008-‐2012
2008-‐09
2009-‐10
2010-‐11
2011-‐12
Property
Tax
$5,681,900
$5,406,000
$6,509,500
$5,957,300
Sales
Tax
$9,062,000
$7,490,000
$6,637,000
$7,136,000
Transient
Occupancy
Tax
$5,600,000
$4,128,000
$4,000,000
$4,500,000
Motor
Vehicle
In
Lieu
Fees
$3,942,100
$3,931,500
$3,627,800
$3,315,000
Franchise
Fees
$1,764,400
$1,584,500
$1,454,600
$1,457,730
Total
$26,050,400
$22,540,000
$22,228,900
$22,366,030
Source:
2011-‐2012
City
Budget
Because
of
the
current
recession,
all
income
sources
have
been
significantly
reduced.
As
a
result,
the
City
has
considered
and
implemented
revenue
enhancements
and
reductions
in
expenditures
to
counter
the
revenue
losses.
Although
through
the
life
of
this
General
Plan
economic
downturns
and
upturns
will
continue
to
occur,
the
City’s
ability
to
carefully
plan
for
downturns
by
expanding
reserves
during
upturns
will
be
critical
to
the
City’s
long
term
economic
health.
As
described
in
the
Parks
and
Recreation
and
Public
Facilities
elements
of
this
document,
the
City
still
intends
to
provide
its
residents
with
a
full
range
of
services,
and
preserve
its
quality
of
life
in
the
long
term.
In
order
to
meet
the
demand,
the
City
must
assure
that
sufficient
revenue
is
generated
to
provide
these
services.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐173
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
The
City
will
continue
to
experience
economic
growth
and
downturns
throughout
the
life
of
this
General
Plan.
In
order
to
protect
the
services
the
City
provides
its
residents,
the
City
will
need
to
continue
to
adapt
and
grow
to
stabilize
its
revenues
and
expenditures.
An
economic
analysis
was
conducted
to
determine
the
costs
and
revenues
associated
with
the
build
out
of
the
Land
Use
Map.
That
analysis
found
that
the
City’s
revenues
could
increase
to
$115.1
million
annually,
including
considerable
increases
in
transient
occupancy
tax
and
sales
tax.
The
analysis
also
found,
however,
that
expenditures
could
rise
to
$121.2
million,
including
general
services,
public
safety
and
recreation.
This
is
primarily
due
to
the
costs
associated
with
providing
services
to
residential
development,
which
does
not
‘pay
for
itself’
in
terms
of
revenue
generation
to
the
City.
As
a
result
of
the
high
number
of
residential
units
in
the
City,
revenue
generating
land
uses,
including
commercial
and
resort
development
in
particular,
may
need
to
be
expanded
and
enhanced
to
assure
long
term
economic
stability.
The
Land
Use
Element
identifies
the
potential
for
3.2
million
square
feet
of
commercial
space,
including
resort
hotel,
retail
and
office
space
in
the
City
limits
at
build
out.
The
effective
use
of
this
space,
particularly
for
revenue
generating
businesses,
hotels
and
resorts,
is
key
to
the
City’s
economic
health.
At
build
out
of
the
City,
the
660
acres
of
General
Commercial
and
Village
Commercial
land
could
generate
$24.1
million
annually
in
sales
tax
revenue
to
the
City,
more
than
tripling
that
revenue
source.
However,
it
is
critical
that
the
uses
that
develop
on
these
lands
be
primarily
focused
upon
generating
sales
tax
revenue,
such
as
retail
uses,
while
carefully
balancing
other
important
land
uses
with
less
revenue
potential,
such
as
professional
office
developments.
The
City
must
also
consider
the
potential
for
the
redevelopment
and
expansion
of
existing
retail
centers
over
the
life
of
the
General
Plan,
to
assure
that
under-‐performing
projects
do
not
limit
the
potential
for
revenue
in
the
long
term.
The
incorporation
of
Mixed
Use
in
the
Zoning
Ordinance
for
all
General
Commercial
and
Village
Commercial
lands
also
provides
the
City
with
an
opportunity
to
increase
revenues
and
limit
costs.
The
synergies
associated
with
Mixed
Use
can
reduce
vehicle
trips
(and
the
associated
road
maintenance
costs),
increase
the
use
of
transit,
and
allow
the
addition
of
residential
units
in
tandem
with
higher
revenue
commercial
projects.
Mixed
Use
development
in
the
future
may
facilitate
a
more
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐174
balanced
cost-‐revenue
for
the
City,
and
should
be
considered
on
that
basis
as
projects
are
proposed.
The
ability
of
the
City
to
provide
a
full
range
of
services
and
a
high
quality
of
life
is
directly
tied
to
its
annual
budget.
The
Land
Use
Map
establishes
the
development
potential
of
lands
within
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence.
Based
on
this
Map
and
the
development
potential
associated
with
it,
an
analysis
of
potential
revenues
and
costs
to
the
City’s
General
Fund
was
prepared.
The
assumptions
included
the
following
components:
For
residential
development
in
the
City,
a
total
of
31,603
units,
and
a
build
out
population
of
79,956
at
100%
occupancy.
For
residential
development
in
the
Sphere,
a
total
of
21,500
units,
and
a
build
out
population
of
54,395
at
100%
occupancy.
For
commercial
development
throughout
the
City
and
Sphere,
building
coverage
of
22%.
For
industrial
development
in
the
Sphere,
building
coverage
of
22%.
For
Tourist
Commercial
lands,
a
total
of
3,074
hotel
rooms
(including
1,160
rooms
at
SilverRock
Resort
and
500
rooms
at
the
Travertine
project),
with
an
average
occupancy
rate
of
65%,
and
a
hotel
room
rate
averaging
$184.
As
shown
in
Table
II-‐16
below,
the
analysis
concludes
a
negative
cash
flow
to
the
City.
The
analysis
then
added
the
build
out
of
the
Sphere
of
Influence,
based
on
the
Land
Use
designations
assigned
on
the
La
Quinta
Land
Use
Map.
As
shown
in
Table
II-‐17,
below,
the
analysis
identifies
that
build
out
of
the
Sphere
of
Influence
significantly
increases
the
negative
cash
flow
the
City
will
experience.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐175
Table
II-‐16
Buildout
Revenues
and
Costs
City
Limits
Only
REVENUES
TAXES
Property
Tax
$14,139,771
Document
Transfer
Tax
$826,658
Sales
Tax
$
24,088,281
Transient
Occupancy
Tax
$
40,529,562
Franchise
Tax
$
7,098,909
LICENSES
AND
FEES
Business
License
$
953,993
Animal
License
$
151,964
Development
Permits
$472,444
Miscellaneous
Permits
$
225,801
General
Government
Fees
$
21,709
Community
Service
Fees
$
1,649,899
Departmental
Fees
$
1,888,387
INTERGOVERNMENTAL
Motor
Vehicle
In-‐Lieu
$
8,833,184
MVLF
$
424,302
Fines
and
Forefeitures
$
1,584,772
Other
$852,944
OTHER
REVENUE
Miscellaneous
Revenue
$
434,184
REIMBURSEMENTS
Gas
Tax
Fund
$
5,369,673
Landscaping
&
Lighting
$
1,040,606
Library
&
Museum
$
4,327,862
TOTAL
REVENUES
$114,914,907
EXPENDITURES
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT
Legislative
$
2,395,945
City
Manager
$
1,135,769
Development
Services
$
4,534,437
Management
Services
$
3,659,078
City
Clerk
$
1,849,570
Finance
$
3,195,626
Community
Services
$14,388,927
Building
&
Safety
$
11,713,218
Planning
$
4,564,809
Public
Works
$
15,245,973
POLICE
$
58,468,000
TOTAL
EXPENDITURES
$121,151,351
Net
Impact
$(6,236,444)
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐176
Table
II-‐17
Buildout
Revenues
and
Costs
City
and
Sphere
of
Influence
REVENUES
TAXES
Property
Tax
$24,149,225
Document
Transfer
Tax
$1,361,634
Sales
Tax
$
34,496,740
Transient
Occupancy
Tax
$
40,529,562
Franchise
Tax
$
12,243,046
LICENSES
AND
FEES
Business
License
$
1,086,151
Animal
License
$
262,084
Development
Permits
$
814,795
Miscellaneous
Permits
$
389,424
General
Government
Fees
$
37,441
Community
Service
Fees
$
2,845,479
Departmental
Fees
$
3,256,784
INTERGOVERNMENTAL
Motor
Vehicle
In-‐Lieu
$
15,086,138
MVLF
$
731,768
Fines
and
Forefeitures
$
2,733,157
Other
$1,299,247
OTHER
REVENUE
Miscellaneous
Revenue
$
748,810
REIMBURSEMENTS
Gas
Tax
Fund
$
9,257,806
Landscaping
&
Lighting
$
1,040,606
Library
&
Museum
$
4,327,862
TOTAL
REVENUES
$156,697,758
EXPENDITURES
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT
Legislative
2,395,945
City
Manager
1,135,769
Development
Services
4,534,437
Management
Services
3,659,078
City
Clerk
2,132,733
Finance
3,195,625
Community
Services
19,847,690
Building
&
Safety
17,459,664
Planning
6,719,998
Public
Works
16,737,998
POLICE
92,817,000
TOTAL
EXPENDITURES
$170,635,905
Net
Impact
$(13,938,147)
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐177
In
order
to
assure
that
the
City
continues
to
receive
at
least
as
much
revenue
as
it
has
expenses,
the
fiscal
impacts
of
future
development
projects
and
annexations
must
be
carefully
monitored.
The
City
must
continue
to
fully
consider
the
importance
of
the
resort
industry
in
its
planning.
Catering
to
a
broad
range
of
visitors
–
from
hotel
guests
to
winter
residents
–
and
assuring
that
their
needs
are
met
is
vital
to
the
City’s
economy.
The
land
designated
for
tourist
commercial
development,
particularly
the
hotel
sites
at
SilverRock
Resort,
have
the
potential
to
increase
transient
occupancy
tax
from
its
current
$4.5
million
annually
to
as
much
as
$40.5
million.
The
City’s
Economic
Development
Plan
has
focused
on
SilverRock’s
hotel
and
tourist
retail
development
in
the
past,
and
the
City
must
continue
to
promote
and
market
the
property
for
these
uses
in
the
future.
By
2035,
the
City’s
core
will
likely
be
built
out
and
the
Highway
111
corridor
will
have
experienced
significant
reuse
and
redevelopment.
Care
must
be
taken
to
assure
that
the
development
that
replaces
existing
projects
is
geared
to
meet
future
trends
and
opportunities.
The
City
must
also
consider
carefully
the
balance
of
costs
and
revenues
when
considering
expansion
of
its
boundaries
into
its
Sphere
of
Influence.
Although
the
recent
elimination
of
redevelopment
in
California
will
have
changed
the
revenue
potential
for
this
area,
the
City
must
fully
consider
costs
and
revenues
when
contemplating
future
annexations.
The
annexation
of
the
Sphere
of
Influence
has
the
potential
to
be
a
financial
drain
on
the
City,
if
development
is
primarily
residential
in
nature.
Of
particular
concern
is
that
this
area
will
not
generate
any
property
tax
revenue
for
many
years
to
come,
due
to
bonded
indebtedness
of
Riverside
County.
If
residential
lands
are
to
be
annexed,
these
lands
will
need
to
offset
their
fiscal
impact
to
the
City
to
assure
that
the
annexation
is
revenue
neutral.
The
Master
Plan
for
the
east
Sphere,
and
annexation
proposals
in
the
future,
must
demonstrate
a
balance
between
costs
and
revenues,
and
may
need
to
be
revenue-‐positive
in
order
to
be
supportable.
The
City’s
Economic
Development
Plan
will
continue
to
be
a
valuable
tool
to
guide
future
revenue
expansion
in
the
City.
As
an
annually
updated
document,
it
can
respond
quickly
to
changes
in
market
trends,
and
direct
the
City’s
focus
to
take
advantage
of
these
opportunities.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐178
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
ED-‐1
A
balanced
and
varied
economic
base
which
provides
fiscal
stability
to
the
City,
and
a
broad
range
of
goods
and
services
to
its
residents
and
the
region.
v Policy
ED-‐1.1
The
Land
Use
Element
shall
maintain
a
balance
of
land
use
designations
to
address
economic
needs,
meet
market
demand,
and
assure
a
wide
range
of
development
opportunities.
Program
ED-‐1.1.a:
Use
the
City’s
GIS
capabilities
to
annually
monitor
the
remaining
capacity
of
vacant
and
under-‐utilized
lands
to
assure
that
sufficient
inventory
exists
to
address
market
needs.
Program
ED-‐1.1.b:
Development
proposal
review
for
commercial
development
shall
include
consideration
of
the
proposal’s
compatibility
with
surrounding
existing
uses,
its
efficient
and
revenue-‐generating
use
of
the
land,
and
its
compatibility
with
the
City’s
Economic
Development
Plan.
v Policy
ED-‐1.2
Support
and
assist
in
the
retention
of
existing
businesses,
and
the
recruitment
of
new
businesses.
Program
ED-‐1.2.a:
Continue
to
annually
update
and
implement
the
City’s
Economic
Development
Plan.
Program
ED-‐1.2.b:
Participate,
where
feasible
and
justifiable,
in
public/private
partnerships
or
other
means
for
the
retention
of
existing
businesses,
and
the
development
of
new
projects
which
generate
significant
economic
activity.
Program
ED-‐1.2.c:
Focus
marketing
and
publicity
efforts
on
the
commercial
and
resort
sectors,
as
revenue
generation
sources.
Program
ED-‐1.2.d:
Every
five
years,
in
the
Economic
Development
Plan,
complete
an
analysis
of
existing
commercial
projects
to
identify
under-‐performing
locations,
and
develop
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐179
strategies
and
public/private
partnerships
to
improve
or
redevelop
these
projects.
Program
ED-‐1.2.e:
Establish
a
program
to
regularly
monitor
City
costs
and
revenues
based
on
existing
development
and
projected
development
allowed
under
the
Land
Use
Map.
Consider
amendments
to
the
Land
Use
Map
to
increase
revenue
generation
potential,
based
on
the
cost
revenue
analysis
and
sound
economic
forecasting.
Program
ED-‐1.2.f:
Improve
and
enhance
the
City’s
application
process
for
commercial
development
proposals.
v 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.
v Policy
ED-‐1.4
Support
and
facilitate
the
reuse
and
redevelopment
of
commercial
projects
on
Highway
111.
Program
ED-‐1.4.a:
As
provided
in
the
Land
Use
Element,
establish
comprehensive
standards
for
Mixed
Use
development
in
commercial
zones.
Program
ED-‐1.4.b:
Development
proposals
for
the
reuse
and
redevelopment
of
existing
projects
shall
be
encouraged
to
implement
creative
design,
include
pedestrian
access,
and
facilitate
transit
and
alternative
transportation.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐180
v Policy
ED-‐1.5
Projects
proposed
on
commercial
land
shall
be
evaluated
for
their
job
creating
and
revenue
generating
potential.
Program
ED-‐1.5.a:
The
City
may
require
the
preparation
of
fiscal
impact
analyses
for
commercial
projects
when
deemed
appropriate
in
the
application
review
process.
v Policy
ED-‐1.6
Assure
that
all
revenues
due
to
the
City
are
collected.
Program
ED-‐1.6.a:
Establish
and
maintain
a
comprehensive
program
to
enforce
the
payment
of
transient
occupancy
tax,
sales
tax,
and
other
fees
and
licenses
due
to
the
City.
v Policy
ED-‐1.7
All
annexation
applications
by
land
owners
shall
include
a
fiscal
analysis
that
fully
addresses
the
fiscal
impact
of
the
proposed
annexation.
Subsequently,
all
annexation
applications
shall
also
include
a
Development
Agreement
application
or
other
mechanism
that
demonstrates
how
the
annexation
will
be
revenue
neutral
or
revenue
positive
for
the
City.
v Policy
ED-‐1.8
Aggressively
lobby
for
the
passage
of
legislation
that
restores
redevelopment
funds
to
local
jurisdictions,
or
provides
other
equivalent
economic
development
tools.
GOAL
ED-‐2
The
continued
growth
of
the
tourism
and
resort
industries
in
the
C ity.
v Policy
ED-‐2.1
Actively
pursue
the
build
out
of
the
SilverRock
Resort.
Program
ED-‐2.1.a:
Through
the
City’s
Economic
Development
Plan,
annually
review
the
land
use
allocation
within
SilverRock’s
Specific
Plan
to
assure
that
future
development
meets
market
needs
and
generates
a
long
term
revenue
stream
for
the
City.
Program
ED-‐2.1.b:
Continue
to
promote
professional
and
amateur
golf
tournaments,
activities
and
events
that
publicize
SilverRock
in
the
local,
state
and
national
media.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
II-‐181
v Policy
ED-‐2.2
Support
increased
room
occupancy
at
the
City’s
existing
hotels
and
resorts.
Program
ED-‐2.2.a:
Continue
to
participate
in
co-‐op
marketing,
and
include
the
City’s
resorts
and
hotels
in
City-‐sponsored
marketing
and
advertising
efforts.
Program
ED-‐2.2.b:
Incorporate
short
term
vacation
rentals
into
the
City’s
transient
occupancy
tax
revenues.
Program
ED-‐2.2.c:
Consider
incentive
programs
for
hotel
remodeling
and
refurbishing,
tied
to
increased
transient
occupancy
tax
revenue
generation
in
the
future.
v Policy
ED-‐2.3
Actively
pursue
the
development
of
additional
hotel
properties
in
all
economic
ranges,
to
accommodate
all
segments
of
the
visitor
market.
RELATED
GOALS
GOAL
LU-‐2:
High
quality
design
that
complements
and
enhances
the
City.
GOAL
CIR-‐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.
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.
GOAL
SC-‐1:
A
community
that
provides
the
best
possible
quality
of
life
for
all
its
residents.
PARKS,
RECREATION
AND
TRAILS
II-‐183
PARKS,
RECREATION
AND
TRAILS
PURPOSE
Public
parks,
recreational
programs,
and
sports
facilities
are
vital
components
of
a
healthy
and
successful
community.
The
City
of
La
Quinta
recognizes
the
connection
between
public
health
and
the
built
environment,
understanding
that
access
to
enjoyable
and
well-‐
maintained
public
parks
and
recreational
opportunities
are
vital
to
the
health
and
well-‐being
of
its
citizens.
The
Parks
and
Recreation
Element
provides
descriptions
of
existing
parks
and
recreational
facilities,
identifies
the
current
and
projected
demand
for
parks
as
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
grow,
and
establishes
the
goals,
policies
and
programs
which
allow
the
City
to
continue
to
provide
a
full
range
of
recreational
amenities
and
services
to
its
residents
and
businesses.
Government
Code
Sections
65103(c)
and
65302(a)
both
address
the
need
to
include
parks
and
recreational
facilities
in
the
General
Plan.
The
former
requires
that
all
cities
annually
review
capital
improvement
needs
for
consistency
with
the
General
Plan.
The
latter
requires
that
the
General
Plan
discuss
the
location
and
distribution
of
parks
and
recreational
facilities,
and
whether
such
facilities
are
adequate.
Government
Code
Sections
66477
and
66479
enable
local
governments
to
require
park
site
dedications,
or
fees
in
lieu
of
dedication,
as
conditions
of
tract
or
parcel
map
approval.
Recreational
land
uses
are
included
in
the
description
of
land
use
elements
in
Section
65302(a).
Trail
designations
are
also
required
as
part
of
Section
5076
of
the
Public
Resources
Code.
PARKS,
RECREATION
AND
TRAILS
II-‐184
BACKGROUND
Public
Parks
and
Recreational
Facilities
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.
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.
Both
public
and
private
golf
courses
are
included
with
the
land
use
calculation
for
Recreational
Open
Space.
La
Quinta’s
designated
recreational
open
space
totals
approximately
5,259
acres
PARKS,
RECREATION
AND
TRAILS
II-‐186
PAGE
NUMBER
SPACER
-‐
PULL
FROM
DOC
PARKS,
RECREATION
AND
TRAILS
II-‐187
In
addition
to
its
parks
and
nature
preserves,
the
City
of
La
Quinta
maintains
a
number
of
public
recreational
facilities
for
its
residents:
The
Fritz
Burns
Pool,
located
at
78-‐107
Avenue
52,
is
an
outdoor
swimming
facility
consisting
of
a
20
by
11
meter
pool
and
a
9
by
5
meter
children’s
pool.
The
facility
has
locker
rooms
and
features
a
misting
system,
a
sun
deck,
and
lifeguards.
Swimming
lessons,
aqua
aerobics,
and
public
swim
hours
are
offered
every
summer
by
the
local
YMCA.
The
La
Quinta
Sports
Complex,
at
78-‐900
Avenue
50,
is
a
joint-‐use
athletic
facility
managed
and
operated
in
conjunction
with
the
Desert
Sands
Unified
School
District.
The
facility
contains
six
baseball
fields,
restrooms,
and
a
snack
bar.
The
La
Quinta
Community
Center,
at
77-‐865
Avenida
Montezuma,
is
a
6,000
square
foot
facility
jointly
operated
with
the
Desert
Recreation
District.
Located
within
the
La
Quinta
Community
Park,
the
facility
contains
a
fitness
center
and
provides
youth
and
preschool
programs
for
La
Quinta
residents.
Colonel
Paige
Middle
School
Fields,
at
43-‐495
Palm
Royale
Drive,
is
a
joint
use
athletic
facility
managed
and
operated
in
conjunction
with
the
Desert
Sands
Unified
School
District.
This
facility
contains
five
smaller
multi-‐use
fields
for
soccer,
sports
lighting
and
restrooms.
The
Boys
and
Girls
Club
of
La
Quinta,
at
49-‐995
Park
Ave,
contains
a
gymnasium
and
activities
room.
The
City
of
La
Quinta
utilizes
the
shared
facility
for
fitness
classes
such
as
Pilates,
yoga,
and
other
wellness
related
activities
for
all
age
groups.
The
La
Quinta
Museum
is
located
at
77-‐885
Avenida
Montezuma.
It
provides
historic
and
cultural
exhibits
and
collections
relating
to
the
history
of
the
City
and
region.
This
facility
is
also
used
for
education,
special
events
and
smaller
entertainment
events.
The
La
Quinta
Senior
Center,
located
at
78-‐450
Avenida
La
Fonda,
offers
a
wide
range
of
recreational
services
to
adults.
The
facility
includes
a
multi-‐purpose
room
with
stage,
kitchen,
hospitality
area,
computer
lab,
arts
and
crafts
room,
lounge,
and
an
outdoor
putting
green.
PARKS,
RECREATION
AND
TRAILS
II-‐188
The
SilverRock
Golf
Course,
located
at
the
southwest
corner
of
Jefferson
Street
and
Avenue
52,
currently
(2010)
offers
18
holes
of
public
play,
and
is
a
host
course
for
numerous
golf
tournaments.
SilverRock
offers
instruction,
reduced-‐cost
play
for
residents,
and
clubhouse
facilities
containing
a
restaurant
and
pro
shop
(please
also
see
the
Economic
Development
Element).
La
Quinta’s
recreational
activities
and
events
are
organized
and
promoted
by
the
Community
Services
Department,
providing
the
public
with
opportunities
that
include
organized
sports,
classes,
excursions,
and
special
events.
The
department
also
oversees
the
City’s
numerous
parks
and
rental
facilities,
the
SilverRock
Resort,
the
Senior
Center,
the
Fitness
Center,
the
La
Quinta
Library,
and
the
La
Quinta
Museum.
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
conducts
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
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.
Trails
and
Connectivity
In
La
Quinta,
trails
are
valued
as
both
a
recreational
amenity
and
as
a
mode
of
transportation.
In
a
survey
of
residents
conducted
for
the
2007
Community
Services
Master
Plan,
recreational
trails
were
identified
as
being
among
the
highest-‐ranked
amenities
desired
by
the
PARKS,
RECREATION
AND
TRAILS
II-‐189
public.7
The
City’s
multi-‐use
path
network,
public
sidewalks,
and
bicycle
routes
serve
as
an
important
link
between
City
parks
and
residential
areas.
While
these
linkages
have
been
provided
in
various
parts
of
the
community,
their
design
and
construction
has
been
inconsistent,
disjointed,
and
unconnected.
In
future
development,
emphasis
should
be
given
to
providing
complete
and
consistent
linkages
between
residential
and
recreational
areas.
Current
Facilities
Residents
of
the
City
of
La
Quinta
currently
have
access
to
72
acres
of
parks,
146.75
acres
of
nature
preserves
containing
recreational
parkland
areas,
845
acres
of
regional
parks,
a
525
acre
municipal
golf
course,
the
nearby
Santa
Rosa
and
San
Jacinto
National
Monument,
numerous
pocket
parks,
golf
courses,
and
other
public
and
private
recreational
facilities.
La
Quinta’s
total
designated
recreational
open
space
is
approximately
5,259
acres.
These
lands
consist
of
both
public
and
private
recreational
areas,
and
include
playgrounds,
golf
courses,
pocket
parks,
trails,
fitness
centers,
and
similar
recreational
facilities.
Many
recreational
areas
which
serve
a
dual
purpose
of
recreational
use
and
habitat
preservation,
such
as
the
Fred
Wolff
Bear
Creek
Nature
Preserve
and
the
Cove
Oasis
Trailhead,
are
also
located
within
the
natural
open
space
land
use
designation.
The
City
of
La
Quinta
strives
to
provide
an
adequate
and
comprehensive
system
of
parks
and
recreational
facilities
to
serve
all
residents.
While
the
Quimby
Act
sets
a
minimum
threshold
of
3.0
acres
of
parkland
per
1,000
residents,
the
City
of
La
Quinta
has
a
policy
of
providing
a
minimum
of
5.0
acres
per
1,000
residents.
The
City
of
La
Quinta
exceeds
its
level
of
service,
at
5.8
acres
of
parkland
per
1,000
residents
for
a
2010
population
of
37,467
residents
(California
Department
of
Finance).
7
2007
Community
Service
Master
Plan,
P.95
PARKS,
RECREATION
AND
TRAILS
II-‐190
Table
II-‐18
Quimby
Act
Parkland
in
La
Quinta
Park Acreage
Adams
Park 3.5
Civic
Center
Campus 17.5
Desert
Pride
Park 1
Eisenhower
Park 0.5
Fritz
Burns
Park 12
La
Quinta
Park 18
Monticello
Park 4
Saguaro
Park 0.75
Season's
Park 5
Velasco
Park 0.25
Pioneer
Park 3
Bear
Creek
Trail 4.75
La
Quinta
Community
Park 6.5
Cove
Oasis
Trailhead 114
Fred
Wolff
Bear
Creek
Nature
Preserve 28
Total
Quimby
Parkland
Acreage 218.75
Quimby
Act
Parkland
in
La
Quinta
Future
Buildout
Needs
The
General
Plan
land
use
scenario
is
anticipated
to
result
in
a
total
build-‐out
population
of
about
134,352
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence.
This
population
growth
will
increase
the
demand
for
parks
and
recreation
facilities.
Quimby
Act
standards
can
be
used
to
determine
the
number
of
neighborhood
and
community
park
acres
needed
to
adequately
serve
the
build-‐out
population.
The
Quimby
Act
allows
local
governments
to
exact
from
developers
of
residential
subdivisions,
through
the
dedication
of
parkland
or
in-‐lieu
fees,
or
both.
The
City
of
La
Quinta’s
established
minimum
standard
of
parkland
is
5.0
acres
per
1,000
population.
When
this
standard
is
applied
to
the
estimated
General
Plan
build-‐out
population,
a
total
of
403
acres
of
neighborhood
and
community
parks
will
be
required
to
adequately
serve
the
City
(239.9
acres)
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
(163.1
acres).
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
The
continued
growth
of
the
City
will
require
the
expansion
of
recreational
facilities
to
serve
the
City’s
expanding
population.
It
is
important
that
the
City
plan
for
this
future
need,
to
assure
that
the
City’s
services
are
adequate
at
all
times
to
serve
its
population,
its
visitors
and
its
businesses.
This
will
include
a
need
to
build
new
City
PARKS,
RECREATION
AND
TRAILS
II-‐191
parks
and
provide
additional
staff.
The
City’s
Community
Services
Master
Plan
will
play
a
key
role
in
planning
for
future
facilities.
By
regularly
updating
the
Community
Services
Master
Plan,
the
City
will
have
an
opportunity
to
consider
growing
demand
for
services
well
in
advance
of
need,
to
assure
timely
construction
and
expansion
of
facilities.
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
PR-‐1
A
comprehensive
system
of
parks,
and
recreation
facilities
and
services
that
meet
the
active
and
passive
needs
of
all
residents
and
visitors.
v Policy
PR-‐1.1
Expand
or
modify
community
services
to
meet
the
health,
well-‐being,
and
recreational
needs
of
the
community.
v 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.
Program
PR-‐1.2.b:
Identify
those
areas
where
residents
live
more
than
one-‐half
mile
from
a
public
or
private
park,
nature
preserve,
or
other
recreational
area
and
identify
acquirable
parcels
of
land
that
could
be
developed
into
parks
within
underserved
areas.
v Policy
PR-‐1.3
Identify
all
viable
financing
mechanisms
for
the
funding
of
construction,
maintenance,
and
operation
of
parks
and
recreational
facilities.
v Policy
PR-‐1.4
The
design
and
construction
of
parks
and
recreational
facilities
shall
comply
with
all
the
development
standards
that
apply
to
privately
constructed
facilities.
PARKS,
RECREATION
AND
TRAILS
II-‐192
v Policy
PR-‐1.5
Coordinate
with
partner
agencies
and
neighboring
communities
to
expand
recreational
opportunities
and
access
to
recreational
facilities.
Program
PR-‐1.5.a:
Continue
to
work
with
adjacent
cities
and
the
County
of
Riverside
on
the
Regional
Bicycle
Trails
Master
Plan
and
future
regional
sports
facilities.
Program
PR-‐1.5.b:
Continue
to
explore
the
potential
for
the
joint
use
of
recreational
facilities
with
the
Desert
Sands
and
Coachella
Valley
Unified
School
Districts,
neighboring
cities,
and
the
Desert
Recreation
District.
Program
PR-‐1.5.c:
Continue
to
work
with
adjacent
cities
and
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
to
utilize
the
Whitewater
Channel
as
an
intercity
trail
opportunity.
v Policy
PR-‐1.6
Encourage
patterns
of
development
that
promote
safe
pedestrian
and
bicycle
access
to
schools,
public
parks,
and
recreational
areas.
v Policy
PR-‐1.7
Identify
opportunities
to
integrate
public
health
concerns
into
parks
and
trails
planning.
v 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.
PARKS,
RECREATION
AND
TRAILS
II-‐193
RELATED
GOALS
GOAL
OS-‐1:
Preservation,
conservation
and
management
of
the
City’s
open
space
lands
and
scenic
resources
for
enhanced
recreational,
environmental
and
economic
purposes.
HOUSING
II-‐195
HOUSING
PURPOSE
The
Housing
Element
of
the
La
Quinta
General
Plan
establishes
the
City’s
policy
relative
to
the
maintenance
and
development
of
housing
to
meet
the
needs
of
existing
and
future
residents.
Jurisdictions
within
the
Southern
California
Association
of
Governments
(SCAG)
region
must
complete
the
statutory
housing
element
update
for
a
planning
period
that
extends
from
2014
to
2021.
The
2014
Regional
Housing
Needs
Assessment
(RHNA)
proposes
that
La
Quinta
provide
the
regulatory
framework
to
facilitate
the
development
of
new
housing
units
potentially
affordable
to
a
range
of
income
levels.
The
City’s
RHNA
is
364
units
for
the
2014–2021
planning
period.
The
RHNA
includes
housing
planning
goals
for
very
low,
low,
moderate,
and
above
moderate
income
households.
The
City’s
RHNA
by
affordability
level
is
91
units
of
housing
affordable
to
very
low
income
households,
61
affordable
for
low
income
households,
66
affordable
for
moderate
income
households,
and
146
above
moderate
income
units.
The
housing
element
demonstrates
the
land
resources,
financial
resources,
market
trends,
and
governmental
efforts
that
have
the
potential
to
facilitate
and
encourage
housing
development
and
rehabilitation
to
meet
the
RHNA.
Setting
The
City
of
La
Quinta
is
one
of
nine
cities
in
the
Coachella
Valley.
A
world-‐renowned
vacation
destination,
La
Quinta’s
population
varies
by
season.
La
Quinta’s
permanent
population
is
estimated
at
37,467
persons
in
2010.
The
seasonal
population
exceeds
10,000,
increasing
the
City’s
population
by
27%
during
winter
months.
HOUSING
II-‐196
La
Quinta
households
are
generally
wealthier
than
other
areas
of
Riverside
County.
The
median
household
income
of
La
Quinta
for
2007-‐
2011
was
$67,444,
significantly
higher
than
the
Riverside
County
median
household
income
of
$65,000.
This
income
trend
is
related
to
the
types
of
new
housing
available
in
La
Quinta.
La
Quinta
is
home
to
many
master
planned
communities.
Although
the
number
of
multifamily
units
in
the
City
more
than
doubled
from
2000
to
2010,
multifamily
units
continue
to
represent
less
than
8
percent
of
the
total
housing
stock.
The
downturn
of
the
housing
market
has
resulted
in
greater
affordability
in
La
Quinta.
Much
like
other
communities
in
the
Coachella
Valley,
since
2006
the
City’s
housing
stock
has
provided
a
wide
range
of
pricing
options
due
to
an
oversupply
of
housing
and
foreclosures.
Housing
Resources
California
housing
element
law
allows
local
governments
to
obtain
credit
toward
its
RHNA
housing
goals
in
three
ways:
constructed
and
approved
units,
vacant
and
underutilized
land,
and
the
preservation
of
existing
affordable
housing.
With
the
economic
downturn,
moderate
income
households
have
access
to
affordable
rental
and
for
sale
units.
The
Very
Low
and
Low
income
household,
however,
will
continue
to
require
subsidized
affordable
housing.
Housing
Plan
The
housing
element
sets
forth
a
comprehensive
housing
plan
consisting
of
goals,
policies,
and
programs
to
address
existing
and
projected
housing
needs.
The
detailed
programs
provided
are
designed
to
identify
sites
to
exceed
the
RHNA,
assist
the
development
of
affordable
housing,
remove
governmental
constraints
to
housing,
preserve
the
existing
housing
stock,
provide
equal
housing
opportunities,
and
promote
energy
and
water
conservation
in
residential
uses.
Quantified
Objectives
The
goals,
policies,
and
programs
will
guide
housing-‐related
decision
making
and
facilitate
attainment
of
the
2014–2021
RHNA
housing
targets.
As
shown
in
Table
II-‐19,
constructed
units
and
approved
units
make
up
the
bulk
of
new
construction
counted
toward
the
RHNA.
HOUSING
II-‐197
Each
jurisdiction
must
establish
quantified
objectives
by
income
category
to
prepare
to
meet
or
exceed
the
RHNA
for
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
The
City
of
La
Quinta’s
quantified
objectives
are
based
on
constructed
and
approved
units
and
land
resources
for
new
housing
and
programs
created
to
address
other
existing
and
projected
housing
needs.
Achieving
the
City
of
La
Quinta’s
quantified
objectives
will
rely
on
third
party
financing,
since
the
elimination
of
redevelopment
by
the
State
has
removed
the
City’s
single
most
important
funding
source.
However,
as
evidenced
by
the
approved
projects
planned
for
construction
in
2014,
the
City
and
developers
of
affordable
housing
projects
have
secured
funding
sufficient
to
exceed
the
City’s
very
low
and
low
income
RHNA
allocation.
Please
see
the
Housing
Resources
section.
Table
II-‐19
Quantified
Objectives
2014–2021
Type
of
Housing
Very
Low
Low
Moderate
Above
Moderate
Total
New
Construction
New
Units
91
61
66
146
364
Rehabilitation/Conservation
Residential
Rehabilitation
10
10
0
0
20
Conservation
(Seasons
Senior
Apartments,
at
risk
2024)
45
46
91
HOUSING
II-‐198
INTRODUCTION
Purpose
The
Housing
Element
of
the
La
Quinta
Plan
establishes
the
City’s
policy
relative
to
the
maintenance
and
development
of
housing
to
meet
the
needs
of
existing
and
future
residents.
These
policies
will
guide
City
decision
making
and
set
forth
a
housing
action
program
through
2021.
These
commitments
are
an
expression
of
the
desire
of
the
City
of
La
Quinta
to
facilitate
adequate
housing
for
every
La
Quinta
resident.
The
City’s
housing
policy
is
in
line
with
the
statewide
housing
goal
of
“attainment
of
decent
housing
and
a
suitable
living
environment
for
every
California
Family.”
The
purpose
of
the
Element
is
to
establish
official
policy
which:
v Identifies
existing
and
projected
housing
needs,
and
inventories
resources
and
constraints
that
are
relevant
to
meeting
these
needs.
The
assessment
and
inventory
include:
Community
Profile
Housing
Profile
Land
Resource
Inventory
Governmental
and
Nongovernmental
Constraints
Analysis
Analysis
of
Special
Needs
Housing
Identification
of
Assisted
Units
“At
Risk”
of
Conversion
v Identifies
the
community’s
goals,
objectives,
and
policies
relative
to
the
preservation,
improvement,
and
development
of
housing.
v Sets
forth
a
schedule
of
actions
(programs)
the
City
is
undertaking
or
intends
to
undertake
to
implement
the
policies
and
achieve
the
goals
and
objectives
of
the
Housing.
The
Housing
Element
has
been
designed
to
address
key
housing
issues
in
the
City.
These
issues
include
appropriate
housing
types
to
meet
the
needs
of
all
segments
of
the
community
while
maintaining
a
low
density
character,
provision
of
affordable
housing
for
special
needs
groups
in
the
community,
and
the
maintenance
of
the
existing
housing
stock.
Consistency
with
State
Planning
Law
California
Government
Code
requires
that
every
City
and
County
prepare
a
Housing
Element
as
part
of
its
General
Plan.
In
addition,
State
law
contains
specific
requirements
for
the
preparation
and
HOUSING
II-‐199
content
of
Housing
Elements.
Sections
65580
to
65589.8
of
the
California
Government
Code
contain
the
legislative
mandate
for
the
housing
element.
State
law
requires
that
the
City’s
Housing
Element
consist
of
“identification
and
analysis
of
existing
and
projected
housing
needs
and
a
statement
of
goals,
policies,
quantified
objectives,
financial
resources,
and
scheduled
programs
for
the
preservation,
improvement
and
development
of
housing.”
Since
the
last
planning
period,
Government
Code
Section
65583
was
amended
by
Senate
Bill
812,
requiring
the
Housing
Element
to
include
identification
and
analysis
of
special
housing
needs
for
individuals
with
developmental
disabilities
within
the
City.
State
law
also
requires
that
the
City
evaluate
its
housing
element
approximately
every
eight
years
to
determine
its
effectiveness
in
achieving
City
and
statewide
housing
goals
and
objectives,
and
to
adopt
an
updated
Element
that
reflects
the
results
of
this
evaluation.
State
law
is
very
specific
on
the
content
of
the
Housing
Element
and
makes
it
clear
that
the
provision
of
affordable
housing
is
the
responsibility
of
all
local
governments.
The
City
is
expected
to
contribute
toward
regional
housing
needs
and
to
contribute
to
the
attainment
of
state
housing
goals.
General
Plan
Consistency
The
goals,
policies,
standards
and
proposals
within
this
element
relate
directly
to
and
are
consistent
with
all
other
elements.
The
City’s
Housing
Element
identifies
programs
and
resources
required
for
the
preservation,
improvement,
and
development
of
housing
to
meet
the
existing
and
projected
needs
of
its
population.
The
Housing
Element
is
affected
by
development
policies
contained
in
the
Land
Use
Element,
which
establishes
the
locations,
types,
intensity,
and
distribution
of
land
uses
throughout
the
City
and
defines
the
buildout
land
use
scenario.
In
designating
total
acreage
density
of
residential
development,
the
Land
Use
Element
places
an
upper
limit
on
the
number
and
types
of
housing
units
constructed
in
the
City.
The
acreage
designated
for
a
range
of
commercial
and
office
uses
creates
employment
opportunities
for
various
income
groups.
The
presence
and
potential
for
jobs
affects
the
current
and
future
demand
for
housing
at
the
various
income
levels
in
the
City.
In
addition,
the
General
Plan
Land
Use
Element
has
been
updated
in
accordance
with
Senate
Bill
244.
There
are
no
disadvantaged
unincorporated
communities
in
the
City’s
Sphere
of
Influence.
HOUSING
II-‐200
The
Circulation
Element
also
affects
the
implementation
of
the
Housing
Element.
The
Circulation
Element
establishes
policies
for
providing
essential
streets
and
roadways
to
all
housing
that
is
developed.
The
policies
that
are
contained
in
the
other
elements
of
the
General
Plan
affect
the
quality
of
life
of
the
citizens
of
the
City
through
the
control
of
the
amount
and
variety
of
open
space
and
recreation
areas,
acceptable
noise
levels
in
residential
areas,
and
programs
to
provide
for
the
safety
of
the
residents.
The
Housing
Element
utilizes
the
most
current
data
available.
It
includes
1990,
2000
and
2010
Census
data,
American
Community
Survey
data,
2013
California
Department
of
Finance
(DOF)
data,
2009
Comprehensive
Housing
Affordability
Strategy
data,
field
surveys
for
housing
conditions,
data
generated
from
the
2013
General
Plan
Update,
and
2012
SCAG
Housing
needs
data,
and
is
consistent
with
existing
and
projected
population,
employment,
and
housing
figures
presented
by
county,
state,
and
national
agencies.
Scope
and
Content
This
Housing
Element
updates
the
Housing
Element
adopted
by
the
City
in
August
of
2011.
The
Housing
Element
is
organized
in
the
following
manner:
v Introduction:
A
statement
of
the
purpose
of
the
Housing
Element
and
statutory
requirements,
a
statement
of
the
relationship
between
the
Housing
Element
and
other
General
Plan
elements,
the
scope,
content
and
organization
of
the
Element,
and
a
summary
of
the
public
participation
process.
v Evaluation
of
Past
Element:
A
summary
of
the
achievements
and
an
evaluation
of
the
effectiveness
of
the
past
Housing
Element.
v Housing
Vision
Statement:
A
statement
describing
the
future
vision
of
housing
in
La
Quinta
as
developed
by
the
citizens
and
elected
officials
of
the
City.
The
policies
in
the
Housing
Element
are
designed
to
bring
this
vision
to
fruition.
v Community
Profile
and
Housing
Profile:
A
discussion
of
the
characteristics
of
the
population,
households,
and
housing
stock
in
La
Quinta,
including
growth
and
affordability
trends.
v Housing
Needs:
An
analysis
of
groups
in
the
City
that
may
have
special
housing
needs,
the
implications
of
the
affordability
of
HOUSING
II-‐201
housing
stock
in
relation
to
household
income,
and
projected
housing
needs.
v Housing
Constraints:
A
discussion
of
governmental
and
nongovernmental
constraints
to
the
development
of
housing
and
opportunities
for
energy
conservation
in
residential
planning,
design,
construction,
and
rehabilitation.
v Housing
Resources:
An
inventory
of
constructed
and
approved
units,
land
available
for
residential
development,
and
underutilized
sites
available
for
residential
redevelopment,
and
an
analysis
of
the
ability
of
these
projects
and
sites
to
meet
the
Regional
Housing
Needs
Assessment
(RHNA).
v Preservation
of
At
Risk
Units:
A
description
of
any
assisted,
affordable
multifamily
units
that
are
eligible
to
convert
to
market
rate
within
10
years
of
the
planning
period.
v Goals,
Policies,
and
Programs:
A
description
of
housing
goals,
policies,
and
programs
responsive
to
the
City’s
current
and
projected
housing
needs.
Also
included
is
a
summary
of
the
City’s
quantified
objectives
for
new
residential
construction,
rehabilitation,
and
financial
assistance
during
the
planning
period.
EFFECTIVENESS
OF
THE
2006-‐2013
HOUSING
ELEMENT
To
develop
appropriate
programs
to
address
the
housing
issues
identified
in
this
Housing
Element
Update,
the
City
of
La
Quinta
has
reviewed
the
effectiveness
of
the
housing
programs
adopted
in
the
2006-‐2013
Housing
Element.
The
State
of
California
requires
an
assessment
of
the
previous
housing
program
to
identify
areas
of
accomplishment
as
well
as
areas
in
which
improvement
could
occur
following
the
implementation
of
new
or
modified
programs.
The
following
section
reviews
the
progress
in
implementation
of
the
programs,
the
effectiveness
of
the
Element,
and
the
continued
appropriateness
of
the
identified
programs.
Analysis
of
the
past
element
is
quantified
where
such
information
is
available.
The
results
of
the
analysis
provided
the
basis
for
developing
the
comprehensive
housing
strategy
for
the
planning
period
in
progress.
HOUSING
II-‐202
Program
Evaluation
Adequate
Sites
for
Housing
v 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.
Program
H-‐1.1.a:
General
Plan
Update.
The
City’s
General
Plan
is
proposed
to
be
updated
during
the
planning
period,
beginning
in
late
2009.
The
update
process
provides
an
ideal
opportunity
to
investigate
potential
land
and
policy
resources
for
new
housing
construction.
§ Objective:
Explore
new
opportunities
for
housing
affordable
to
a
range
of
incomes
through
modified
or
new
land
uses
and
overlay
districts.
§ Timing:
Anticipated
adoption
Fall
2011
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
City’s
General
Plan
was
adopted
in
February
of
2013.
It
includes
a
Livable
Community
Element,
which
details
principles
such
as
mixed
use
development,
redevelopment
of
existing
projects
to
connect
residential
and
commercial
projects
for
pedestrians
and
bicyclists,
and
improving
energy
efficiency
through
design.
This
program
was
successfully
completed
and
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
v 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.
Program
H-‐1.2.a:
Available
Land
for
Housing.
While
the
development
capacity
of
land
identified
in
the
vacant
and
underutilized
land
inventory
has
the
potential
to
meet
RHNA
under
current
zoning
designations,
upzoning
key
sites
will
increase
capacity
and
may
facilitate
the
development
of
housing
affordable
to
a
range
of
incomes.
HOUSING
II-‐203
§ Objective:
Increase
the
capacity
for
housing
on
vacant
and
underutilized
sites
by
rezoning
particular
sites
as
discussed
in
Section
7.0.
§ Timing:
July
1,
2012
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
City
has
completed
the
rezoning
of
several
sites
and
applied
an
Affordable
Housing
Overlay
(AHO)
to
commercial
lands
to
increase
capacity
and
facilitate
to
the
development
of
affordable
housing
(Ordinance
Nos.
512,
513
and
514,
adopted
June
4,
2013).
The
following
table
provides
a
list
of
rezoned
APN’s,
the
previous
designation,
and
current
designation.
It
should
be
noted
that
all
commercial
lands
and
several
residential
sites
have
an
AHO
designation.
This
program
was
successfully
completed
and
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
City
of
La
Quinta
Rezoning
of
Vacant/Underutilized
Sites
APN
Previous
Zoning
Current
Zoning
VACANT
LAND
INVENTORY
766-‐070-‐004
LDR/RL
MDR/RM
646-‐070-‐016
MHDR/RMH
MHDR/RMH,
AHO
777-‐030-‐017
NC/CN
NC/CN,
AHO
643-‐200-‐007
CC/CC
CC/CC,
AHO
600-‐390-‐024
RC&CP/CR&CP
RC&CP/CR&CP,
AHO
643-‐080-‐049
RC/CR
RC/CR,
AHO
643-‐020-‐032
RC/CR
RC/CR,
AHO
643-‐020-‐025
RC/CR
RC/CR,
AHO
600-‐340-‐048
RC/CR
RC/CR,
AHO
UNDERUTILIZED
LAND
INVENTORY
609-‐051-‐002
LDR/RL
MDR/RM,
AHO
609-‐052-‐002
LDR/RL
MDR/RM,
AHO
770-‐040-‐012
MDR/RM
MDR/RM,
AHO
777-‐030-‐007
VLDR/RL
MDR/RM
600-‐030-‐001
through
600-‐030-‐010
MDR/RM
MHDR/RMH,
AHO
777-‐010-‐001
NC/CN
NC/CN,
AHO
773-‐370-‐027
VC/VC
VC/VC,
AHO
Source:
City
of
La
Quinta
Community
Development
Department
Table
C-‐1:
Draft
Vacant
Land
Inventory,
City
of
La
Quinta
Housing
Element
Table
C-‐2:
Draft
Underutilized
Land
Inventory,
City
of
La
Quinta
Housing
Element
HOUSING
II-‐204
Program
H-‐1.2.b:
Small
Lot
Subdivision
Ordinance.
Smaller
homes
on
smaller
lots
create
potential
for
market-‐
driven
affordable
housing
to
be
developed
in
La
Quinta,
and
is
an
appropriate
form
of
housing
for
first-‐time
homebuyers,
small
households,
and
seniors.
The
ordinance
would
create
additional
housing
potential
on
small
infill
sites.
Such
an
ordinance
would
include
consideration
for
incentivizing
small
lot
developments
such
as
fee
reductions,
flexible
development
standards,
allowances
for
small-‐lot,
market-‐rate
projects
to
utilize
parking
and
other
development-‐related
density
bonus
incentives
usually
reserved
for
affordable
projects,
and
expediting
review
of
small-‐lot
subdivision
maps.
§ smaller
lots
than
currently
permitted
to
facilitate
the
creation
of
small
single-‐family
detached
and
attached
homes.
§ Timing:
July
1,
2012
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
City
considered
the
inclusion
of
a
small
lot
subdivision
ordinance
as
part
of
the
zoning
update
undertaken
for
program
H-‐1.2.a.
The
evaluation
considered
the
historical
development
pattern
in
the
City,
and
the
tools
already
available
to
the
development
community
to
facilitate
smaller
lots.
It
was
determined
that
existing
small
lots
in
the
Village
and
Cove
have
not
developed
because
of
their
size,
and
have
on
the
contrary
been
consolidated
to
create
larger,
more
useable
lots.
Further,
the
development
community
has
very
effectively
used
Specific
Plans
to
achieve
the
same
results
as
a
small
lot
ordinance.
Therefore,
the
City
did
not
include
such
an
ordinance
in
the
update
completed
in
2013.
The
program
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
v 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.
Evaluation:
The
City
continued
to
look
at
projects
for
affordable
housing
on
infill
sites
and
in
areas
where
transit
and
employment
were
readily
available.
The
Vista
Dunes
project,
built
during
the
2006-‐2013
planning
period,
is
located
on
a
major
arterial,
close
to
schools,
transit
and
employment,
and
provides
80
affordable
housing
units.
Both
the
Washington
Street
Apartments
and
Coral
Mountain
Apartments
are
HOUSING
II-‐205
planned
for
such
sites.
This
policy
was
successful
and
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
v Policy
H-‐1.4
Support
the
construction
of
new
affordable
housing
by
rezoning,
where
appropriate
and
desirable,
to
permit
higher
density
residential
development.
Evaluation:
See
evaluation
of
Program
H-‐1.2.a.
This
policy
was
successfully
completed
and
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
v Policy
H-‐1.5
Pursue
land
banking
opportunities
for
housing
that
exceeds
the
2006–
2014
RHNA.
Program
H-‐1.5.a:
Land
Banking.
The
recent
downturn
in
the
market
reduces
competition
for
purchasing
vacant
and
underutilized
residential
sites.
Land
costs
are
a
critical
concern
for
the
affordable
housing
development
community.
By
purchasing
land
as
it
becomes
available,
the
Redevelopment
Agency
will
be
able
to
provide
sites
at
low
or
no
cost
to
the
developer
for
the
purpose
of
subsidizing
development
to
meet
the
RHNA.
For
example,
the
Agency
sold
a
15-‐acre
site
to
Coachella
Valley
Housing
Coalition
for
$1
to
develop
Wolff
Waters
Place,
a
project
providing
218
affordable
units
completed
in
2009.
The
City
will
continue
to
acquire
and
consolidate
parcels
associated
with
Site
U8,
in
particular
related
to
continuing
discussions
with
the
owners
of
the
existing
10.3
acre
trailer
park.
§ Objective:
Utilize
Agency
funds
for
the
purchase
of
sites
to
meet
the
RHNA.
§ Timing:
2006–2014
as
determined
by
land
availability
and
the
Redevelopment
Agency
Implementation
Plan.
§ Funding
Source:
LMIHF
§ Responsible
Agency:
Redevelopment
Agency
Evaluation:
Prior
to
the
elimination
of
redevelopment
in
California,
during
the
2006-‐2013
planning
period,
the
City’s
Redevelopment
Agency
purchased
a
number
of
lots
in
the
Village,
as
well
as
properties
in
North
La
Quinta.
In
total,
the
Agency
purchased
33
acres
of
land
with
a
development
potential
of
approximately
400
units.
With
the
elimination
of
redevelopment,
however,
the
Agency
no
longer
exists,
and
those
HOUSING
II-‐206
properties
are
unlikely
to
be
developed
for
affordable
housing.
This
program
cannot
be
continued,
and
will
be
eliminated.
Program
H-‐1.5.b:
Affordable
Housing
Overlay.
While
affordable
housing
has
been
produced
at
relatively
low
densities
in
the
City,
additional
density
options
could
further
expand
the
opportunity
for
affordable
housing
projects.
Certain
areas
of
the
City
could
accommodate
additional
residential
density
without
creating
inconsistent
land
use
patterns
within
the
existing
fabric.
Additionally,
most
large-‐scale
commercial
development
in
La
Quinta
is
one-‐story
and
does
not
approach
the
maximum
allowable
height
limit.
Permitting
residential
uses
over
commercial
and
office
uses
will
increase
the
City’s
capacity
for
housing
and
encourage
vibrant,
mixed-‐use
nodes
throughout
the
City
without
increasing
existing
building
heights.
Residential
uses
from
0
to
16
units
per
acre
are
currently
permitted
in
the
VC
zone
with
a
Village
Use
Permit
and
in
the
CR
and
CP
zones
with
a
conditional
use
permit.
Higher
density
residential
development
would
provide
new
attached
housing
opportunities
for
singles,
couples,
and
small
families
that
wish
to
enjoy
La
Quinta
without
the
high
cost
associated
with
resort-‐
style
living.
An
Affordable
Housing
Overlay
(AHO)
would
permit
higher
density
development
to
occur
in
specific
parts
of
the
City
provided
the
residential
project
dedicate
at
least
25
percent
of
the
housing
for
lower
income
households.
Property
owners
would
not
be
required
to
develop
affordable
housing
on
their
sites;
however,
projects
that
do
so
would
be
permitted
to
develop
housing
at
densities
of
20–24
units
per
acre.
Moreover,
the
24
unit
per
acre
density
would
serve
as
the
base
level
for
the
application
of
a
density
bonus
under
State
law.
Projects
with
an
affordability
component
under
25%
could
be
granted
specific
density
bonus
incentives
they
may
not
otherwise
qualify
for.
Under
existing
provisions,
affordable
housing
projects
would
be
eligible
for
an
additional
35
percent
density
bonus
and
could
reach
a
maximum
of
just
over
32
units
per
acre.
Projects
developed
under
the
AHO
would
require
a
density
of
at
least
20
units
per
acre.
The
AHO
would
also
set
forth
financial
and
other
incentives
that
could
be
made
available,
such
as
land
write-‐downs,
fee
deferrals
or
reductions,
prioritization
of
available
public
funding
to
AHO
sites.
In
HOUSING
II-‐207
addition,
the
City
will
process
affordable
projects
on
AHO
sites
at
a
priority
or
‘fast
track’
level,
and
will
consider
flexible
development
standards
that
exceed
the
allowances
under
density
bonus
provisions,
given
the
appropriate
project.
The
overlay
would
be
applied
to
properties
zoned
CC,
CN,
CP,
RC,
and
VC,
as
well
as
certain
residentially-‐zoned
sites
(see
Exhibit
II-‐14).
Projects
would
also
need
to
have
a
minimum
project
size
of
1
acre,
which
would
encourage
lot
consolidation
and
maximize
the
housing
potential
of
vacant
and
underutilized
sites.
Housing
built
under
the
provisions
of
the
overlay
would
also
be
subject
to
the
development
standards
of
the
City’s
RH
(High
Density
Residential)
zone,
which
will
be
modified
to
be
consistent
with
the
AHO
and
create
adequate
development
standards
to
facilitate
densities
established
under
the
AHO
(refer
to
Program
1.7).
Projects
that
meet
these
standards
and
requirements
would
be
permitted
without
a
CUP
or
other
additional
discretionary
review,
consistent
with
GC
Section
65583.2
(h)
and
(i).
§ Objective:
Amend
the
Municipal
Code
to
create
an
Affordable
Housing
Overlay
that
permits
affordable
housing
(stand
alone,
next
to,
and/or
above
nonresidential
uses)
at
densities
of
20
to
24
units
per
acre
for
sites
one
acre
or
larger
in
size
in
the
Community
Commercial,
Commercial
Park,
Neighborhood
Commercial,
Regional
Commercial,
and
Village
Commercial
zones.
The
Overlay
shall
also
apply
specifically
to
residentially-‐zoned
sites
U1,
U2,
U3,
U8,
and
15
as
identified
in
Tables
C-‐1
and
C-‐2.
to
accommodate
at
least
50%
of
the
remaining
regional
housing
need
of
1,213
units
for
lower-‐income
households.
The
City
will
apply
RH
(High
Density
Residential)
zone
standards
to
residential
uses
in
those
commercial
zones.
City
staff
will
propose
increasing
the
maximum
height
limit
from
35
to
40
feet
to
facilitate
three-‐story
mixed-‐use
development.
Evaluate
reducing
or
eliminating
600-‐foot
buffer
for
affordable
housing
from
the
Highway
111
corridor.
Evaluate
financial
and
performance-‐
based
incentives
and
incorporate
into
the
AHO
where
appropriate.
§ Timing:
July
1,
2012
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
HOUSING
II-‐208
Evaluation:
The
City
completed
the
update
of
the
zoning
ordinance
to
include
an
Affordable
Housing
Overlay
for
designated
sites,
and
to
all
commercially
zoned
lands.
Because
of
the
elimination
of
Redevelopment,
no
financial
incentives
were
included
in
the
AHO.
The
following
9
sites
(“U”
sites
are
underutilized
and
“#”
sites
are
vacant)
are
specifically
called
out
here
to
demonstrate
that
the
City’s
site
inventory,
along
with
other
commercial
lands
to
be
subject
to
the
AHO,
will
meet
compliance
requirements
of
state
housing
law
and
provide
for
significant
excess
capacity
with
respect
to
the
City’s
RHNA.
This
program
was
successfully
completed,
and
will
not
be
extended
to
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
SITE
CURRENT
ZONING
(allowable
density)
SIZE
(Acres)
UNIT
CAPACITY
UI
RL
(4
units/ac)
4.9
98
U2
RL
(4
units/ac)
4.8
96
U3
RL
(4
units/ac)
7.5
150
U8
RM
(8
units/ac)
19.6
392
15
RMH
(12
units/ac)
14
280
5*
CP
(20
units/ac
w/program)
15.7
157
6*
CR
(20
units/ac
w/program)
11
110
A*
CR
(20
units/ac
w/program)
15.8
158
B*
CR
(20
units/ac
w/program)
17.6
176
Program
H-‐1.5.c:
Affordable
and
Mixed-‐Use
Housing
Development
Standards.
Residential
uses
at
20
to
24
units
per
acre
will
be
permitted
in
several
commercial
zones
(Program
1.5)
and
on
specific
residential
sites
following
standards
similar
to
those
established
for
the
High
Density
Residential
zone.
Higher
density
housing
and
vertically
mixed-‐use
development,
including
affordable
housing
projects,
may
benefit
from
regulations
tailored
to
this
use,
especially
with
regard
to
parking
standards.
§ Objective:
Create
development
standards
specific
to
affordable
and
mixed-‐use
housing
development.
Coordinate
with
nonprofit
and
for
profit
developers
to
assist
in
identifying
appropriate
standards
for
multifamily
and
affordable
housing.
§ Timing:
July
1,
2012
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
HOUSING
II-‐209
Evaluation:
The
zoning
ordinance
update
included
an
increase
in
density
to
20-‐24
units
per
acre
on
all
commercial
sites
and
identified
high
density
residential
sites.
Development
standards
were
included
for
these
densities
as
part
of
the
affordable
housing
overlay.
The
Mixed
Use
overlay
is
being
undertaken
in
the
second
phase
of
the
zoning
ordinance
update,
and
will
be
complete
in
the
fall
of
2013.
As
mixed
use
sites
are
not
necessary
for
the
City
to
meet
its
RHNA
requirements,
this
portion
of
the
zoning
ordinance
update
is
in
response
to
the
General
Plan
requirements,
not
the
Housing
Element
RHNA
needs.
This
program
will
be
completed
in
the
planning
period,
and
will
not
be
extended.
Program
H-‐1.5.d:
High
Density
Residential.
Encourage
future
development
or
redevelopment
of
High
Density
Residential
sites
for
multifamily
housing
by
increasing
the
maximum
density
from
16
to
24
units
per
acre.
Higher
density
housing
may
provide
additional
opportunities
for
housing
types
affordable
to
moderate
and
lower
income
households.
This
would
be
a
land
use
action
associated
with
the
City’s
2011
General
Plan
Update
process.
§ Objective:
Amend
the
Municipal
Code
to
permit
densities
up
to
24
units
per
acre
in
the
High
Density
Residential
zone.
§ Timing:
February
1,
2012
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
City’s
zoning
ordinance
has
been
amended
to
include
densities
of
20-‐24
units
on
high
density
residential
properties.
This
program
was
successfully
completed
and
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐1.5.e:
Adequate
Sites
Monitoring.
To
ensure
sufficient
residential
capacity
for
units
affordable
to
lower-‐income
households,
the
City
will
develop
and
implement
an
ongoing
site
monitoring
procedure
consistent
with
State
Housing
Law.
The
procedure
shall
provide
that
where
development
approvals
on
identified
AHO
sites
result
in
a
reduction
of
potential
affordable
units
below
the
total
residential
capacity
assumed
in
Tables
C-‐1
and
C-‐2
(e.g.
Site
15
in
Table
C-‐1
is
developed
below
its
projected
density),
the
City
will
identify
and
analyze
additional
AHO
sites
to
accommodate
the
shortfall
of
capacity
remaining
within
the
AHO.
As
the
AHO
will
apply
to
all
commercially
zoned
sites
within
the
CC,
CN,
CP,
RC,
VC
zones,
the
City
may
need
to
incorporate
additional
HOUSING
II-‐210
commercially
zoned
sites
as
part
of
the
housing
element
inventory
if
any
of
the
previously
identified
and
analyzed
AHO
sites
develop
below
their
identified
capacity.
The
City
will
report
on
the
status
and
implementation
of
the
AHO
including
development
occurring
on
identified
sites
to
determine
whether
Program
incentives
are
providing
the
necessary
catalyst
to
ensure
that
development
is
occurring
consistent
with
the
buildout
projections
described
in
Tables
C-‐1
and
C-‐2.
As
necessary,
the
City
will
revise
this
program
to
ensure
the
AHO
remains
a
realistic
and
viable
development
strategy
to
accommodate
the
City’s
remaining
regional
need
for
lower-‐income
households
throughout
the
planning
period.
§ Objective:
Develop
and
implement
an
Affordable
Housing
Overlay
site
monitoring
procedure.
§ Timing:
July
1,
2011
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
elimination
of
redevelopment
and
economic
conditions
resulted
in
only
limited
development
in
the
City
after
the
adoption
of
the
AHO.
The
affordable
housing
projects
currently
under
development
for
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period
did
not
require
the
use
of
the
AHO.
Further,
the
AHO
is
only
applicable
to
one
site
in
the
land
inventory
for
the
2014-‐
2021
planning
period,
and
that
site
is
not
necessary
for
the
City
to
meet
its
RHNA.
This
program
will
therefore
be
eliminated
for
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Assist
in
the
Development
of
Affordable
Housing
v Policy
H-‐2.1
Increase
housing
choices
for
lower
and
moderate
income
households.
v Policy
H-‐2.2
Support
public,
private,
and
nonprofit
efforts
in
the
development
of
affordable
housing.
v Policy
H-‐2.3
Pursue
a
variety
of
forms
of
private,
local,
state,
and
federal
assistance
to
support
development
of
affordable
housing.
HOUSING
II-‐211
Program
H-‐2.3.a:
Housing
Acquisition
State
law
permits
jurisdictions
“buy
down”
existing
residential
projects
by
restricting
previously
above
moderate
income
units
for
lower
income
households.
The
City
may
meet
a
portion
of
its
RHNA
by
restricting
existing
projects
or
purchasing
and
deed -‐
restricting
foreclosed
homes.
§ Objective:
Purchase
a
portion
or
all
of
a
project
and
restrict
above
moderate
income
units
for
lower
income
households
§ Timing:
Complete
purchase
by
June
2014
§ Funding
Source:
LMIHF
§ Responsible
Agency:
Redevelopment
Agency
Evaluation:
The
City
has
partnered
with
a
number
of
organizations
to
develop
affordable
housing.
The
Vista
Dunes
project
was
completed
with
Core
Housing
and
Southern
California
Housing
Development
Corp.
The
Wolff
Waters
project
was
completed
with
the
Coachella
Valley
Housing
Coalition.
Coral
Mountain
Apartments
will
be
completed
with
Desert
Cities
Development.
The
City
had
an
agreement
with
Habitat
for
Humanity
for
7
homes.
To
date,
the
7
homes
have
not
been
built.
This
program
was
successful
and
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐2.3.b:
Second
Units
and
Guest/Employee
Housing
Encourage
the
development
of
second
units,
guest
houses,
and
employee
quarters
through
a
promotional
brochure
designed
to
define
a
second
unit,
explain
local
development
requirements,
and
describe
the
local
entitlement
process.
This
information
will
be
provided
at
City
Hall
and
on
the
City’s
website.
Press
releases
and
other
free
forms
of
media
may
also
be
used
to
inform
the
public
of
its
availability.
Second
units
and
guest/employee
quarters
(referred
to
in
La
Quinta
as
“casitas”)
provide
housing
opportunities
for
lower
income
households.
Employee
quarters,
per
the
City’s
Municipal
Code,
are
rent-‐free
and
therefore
affordable
to
extremely
low
income
households.
§ Objective:
Produce
and
distribute
second
unit
brochure;
facilitate
the
development
of
200
second
units
and
guest
houses/employee
quarters
§ Timing:
Produce
brochure
by
March
2010
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
City
did
not
have
the
financial
resources
to
produce
a
brochure
to
promote
second
units.
In
addition,
second
units
and
guest
HOUSING
II-‐212
houses
have
been
a
popular
feature
of
single
family
development
both
in
planned
communities
and
standard
subdivisions.
Finally,
the
City
does
not
need
second
units
in
the
2014—2021
planning
period
to
meet
its
RHNA.
The
need
for
a
brochure
to
promote
such
units
is
unclear.
This
program
will
not
be
extended
in
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐2.3.c:
Guest/Employee
Housing
Facilitate
the
development
of
rent-‐free
guest
and
employee
housing
by
permitting
as
an
accessory
use
without
a
Minor
Use
Permit,
and
expanding
the
definition
of
guest
and
employee
housing
units
to
allow
full
bathroom
and
kitchen
facilities.
Full
bathroom
and
kitchen
facilities
will
improve
the
quality
of
life
for
lower
and
extremely
low
income
employees
in
La
Quinta.
§ Objective:
Amend
the
Municipal
Code
to
permit
guest
and
employee
housing
without
a
Minor
Use
Permit
and
allow
full
plumbing
facilities.
§ Timing:
March
2010
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
zoning
ordinance
amendment
completed
in
2013
now
allows
bathrooms
and
kitchens
in
guest
houses.
This
program
was
successfully
completed
and
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐2.3.d:
Density
Bonus
The
City
updated
its
density
bonus
law
in
2008,
but
will
need
to
reflect
additional
changes
brought
through
AB
2280.
Density
bonuses
allow
the
development
community
to
construct
densities
higher
than
the
maximum
allowed,
and
receive
other
incentives
for
providing
affordable
housing.
§ Objective:
Update
the
Zoning
Code
to
include
amendments
to
density
bonus
law
under
Assembly
Bill
2280
and
provide
a
summary
of
the
changes
on
the
affordable
housing
page
of
the
City’s
website.
§ Timing:
Adopt
by
March
2010
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
zoning
ordinance
amendment
completed
in
June
of
2013
updated
the
density
bonus
provisions
to
bring
them
into
conformance
HOUSING
II-‐213
with
AB
2280.
This
program
was
successfully
completed
and
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐2.3.e:
Collaborative
Partnerships
The
City
shall
meet
with
parties
interested
in
affordable
housing
development
to
discuss
types
of
land
and
financial
incentives
available
and
requirements
for
obtaining
assistance,
discuss
appropriate
sites
for
affordable
housing,
and
foster
professional
collaboration
between
the
City
and
affordable
housing
stakeholders.
By
supporting
projects
that
maximize
the
leveraging
of
private,
state,
and
federal
financial
resources
the
Agency’s
funds
will
assist
in
the
development
of
more
units.
§ Objective:
Continue
to
collaborate
with
nonprofits
and
the
development
community
to
finance
and
develop
affordable
housing.
§ Timing:
Project-‐by-‐project
basis,
by
request,
or
on
an
annual
basis
in
tandem
with
meetings
associated
with
Program
2.8.
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
and
Redevelopment
Agency
Evaluation:
Prior
to
the
elimination
of
redevelopment
by
the
State,
the
Agency
worked
with
a
number
of
organizations
(please
see
evaluation
of
Program
H-‐2.3.a,
above)
in
generating
affordable
housing.
With
the
elimination
of
redevelopment,
the
Agency
no
longer
exists,
and
the
City
has
no
funds
to
assist
developers
in
funding
projects.
However,
the
City
has
actively
supported
Tax
Credit
applications
for
the
Washington
Street
and
Coral
Mountain
apartment
projects,
and
will
continue
to
assist
affordable
housing
developers
in
securing
third
party
financing.
This
program
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐2.3.f:
Affordable
Housing
Renter-‐to-‐Owner
Transition
Low
Income
Housing
Tax
Credit
(LIHTC)
provides
federal
tax
credits
for
private
developers
and
investors
that
agree
to
set
aside
all
or
a
portion
of
their
units
for
low
income
households.
LIHTC
projects
can
transition
from
rental
to
ownership
units.
The
units
must
remain
rentals
for
15
years,
at
which
time
some
projects
convert
to
ownership
units.
Typically
a
portion
or
all
of
the
rent
paid
for
the
5
years
prior
to
the
conversion
is
put
toward
the
purchase
of
the
unit.
This
enables
lower
income
households
to
invest
in
the
property
in
which
they
have
been
living
and
benefit
from
its
appreciation.
HOUSING
II-‐214
Providing
lower
and
moderate
income
households
with
affordable
rental
housing
allows
them
to
save
money
for
the
future
home
purchase.
Giving
a
renter
the
opportunity
to
own
their
unit
creates
a
sense
of
community
responsibility,
establishes
a
time-‐sensitive
financial
savings
goal,
and
provides
an
opportunity
to
share
in
the
appreciation
of
the
project.
Renter-‐to-‐owner
affordable
housing
projects
are
long
term
projects
that
allow
a
household
to
remain
in
La
Quinta
and
aspire
to
homeownership.
Existing
stalled
condominium
and
townhome
projects
are
prime
opportunities
for
low
income
tax
credits
to
be
used
for
renter-‐to-‐owner
programs.
§ Objective:
Investigate
the
use
of
LIHTCs
to
finance
affordable
single-‐family
attached
rental
development
that
can
transition,
after
15
years,
into
moderate
income
ownership
housing.
§ Timing:
Complete
study
by
June
2010
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Redevelopment
Agency
Evaluation:
Please
see
evaluation
of
Program
H-‐2.3.f,
above.
The
City
has
actively
supported
Tax
Credit
applications
for
the
Washington
Street
and
Coral
Mountain
apartment
projects,
and
will
continue
to
assist
affordable
housing
developers
in
securing
third
party
financing.
This
program
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐2.3.g:
Affordable
Housing
Renter-‐to-‐Owner
Transition
There
are
many
resources
that
the
City,
nonprofits,
or
for-‐profit
developers
may
utilize
to
subsidize
the
construction
and
maintenance
of
affordable
housing.
Some
of
the
most
prominent
resources
are
described
below.
§ Objective:
Advertise
other
financial
resources
through
the
affordable
housing
page
of
the
City’s
website,
apply
for
grants
and
competitive
loans,
and
form
partnerships
with
the
development
community
to
obtain
additional
financial
resources.
§ Timing:
Update
website
with
funding
information
and
partnership
opportunities
every
six
months
or
earlier
if
appropriate.
Funding
resources
are
typically
offered
on
an
annual
basis,
most
often
at
the
start
of
the
new
fiscal
year
(either
January
or
July).
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Division
HOUSING
II-‐215
Low
Income
Tax
Credits
Low
Income
Housing
Tax
Credit
(LIHTC)
provides
federal
tax
credits
for
private
developers
and
investors
that
agree
to
set
aside
all
or
a
portion
of
their
units
for
low
income
households.
A
minimum
of
20
percent
of
the
units
must
be
affordable
to
low
income
households
and
40
percent
of
the
units
must
be
affordable
to
moderate
income
households.
Community
Reinvestment
Act
The
Community
Reinvestment
Act
provides
favorable
financing
to
affordable
housing
developers.
The
Redevelopment
Agency,
development
community,
and
local,
regional,
and
national
banks
are
encouraged
to
work
together
to
meet
their
obligations
pursuant
to
the
Community
Reinvestment
Act.
California
Housing
Finance
Agency
Program
The
California
Housing
Finance
Agency
(CHFA)
has
three
single-‐family
programs
for
primarily
moderate
and
middle
income
homebuyers:
the
Home
Ownership
Assistance
Program
and
the
Affordable
Housing
Partnership
Program.
Each
provides
permanent
mortgage
financing
for
first-‐time
homebuyers
at
below-‐market
interest
rates.
HOME
Funds
HOME
(Home
Investment
Partnership
Program)
is
the
largest
Federal
block
grant
distributed
to
state
and
local
governments
for
the
creation
of
lower
income
housing.
Cities
apply
when
Notices
of
Funding
Availability
are
issued.
Neighborhood
Stabilization
Program
HUD’s
Neighborhood
Stabilization
Program
makes
emergency
assistance
grants
available
to
local
governments
for
the
acquisition,
redevelopment,
and
renting
or
resale
of
foreclosed
properties
at-‐risk
of
abandonment.
Riverside
County
First-‐Time
Homebuyers
Program
Continue
participation
in
the
Riverside
County
First-‐Time
Homebuyers
Program
for
low
and
moderate
income
households.
Mortgage
Credit
Certificate
The
Riverside
County
Mortgage
Credit
Certificate
Program
is
designed
to
assist
low
and
moderate
income
first
time
homebuyers.
Under
the
Mortgage
Credit
Certificate
Program,
first-‐time
homebuyers
receive
a
tax
credit
based
on
a
percentage
of
the
interest
paid
on
their
mortgage.
This
tax
credit
allows
the
buyer
to
qualify
more
easily
for
home
loans,
as
it
increases
the
effective
income
of
the
buyer.
Under
HOUSING
II-‐216
federal
legislation,
20
percent
of
the
funds
must
be
set
aside
for
buyers
with
incomes
between
75
and
80
percent
of
the
county
median
income.
Finance
Agency
Lease-‐Purchase
Program
Riverside/San
Bernardino
County
Housing
Finance
Agency
Lease
Purchase
Program
provides
down
payment
assistance
and
closing
costs
for
eligible
households
up
to
140
percent
of
the
area
median
income.
Housing
Choice
Voucher
(formerly
Section
8)
Referrals
Housing
Choice
Vouchers
allow
lower
income
households
to
use
rental
subsidies
anywhere
in
the
County,
including
La
Quinta.
Evaluation:
Please
see
evaluation
of
Program
H-‐2.3.f
and
H-‐2.3.e,
above.
The
City
has
actively
supported
Tax
Credit
applications
for
the
Washington
Street
and
Coral
Mountain
apartment
projects,
and
will
continue
to
assist
affordable
housing
developers
in
securing
third
party
financing.
This
program
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐2.3.h:
Sweat
Equity
and
Shared
Equity
Sweat
equity
and
shared
equity
programs
provide
lower
and
moderate
income
households
with
ownership
assistance.
Sweat
equity
refers
to
the
exchange
of
time
and
effort,
usually
in
the
form
of
construction
activities,
for
an
affordable
ownership
opportunity.
Shared
equity
refers
to
the
exchange
of
a
portion
of
the
home
appreciation
for
an
affordable
ownership
opportunity.
§ Objective:
Continue
to
work
with
organizations
that
offer
sweat
and
shared
equity
housing
programs
to
lower
and
moderate
income
households
in
La
Quinta.
Meet
with
organizations
annually
or
more
frequently
(if
requested
or
advantageous)
to
identify
opportunities
for
coordinated
efforts
or
potential
housing
projects.
§ Timing:
Annual
meetings,
ongoing
coordination
§ Funding
Source:
LMIHF;
approximately
$300,000
per
year
is
set
aside
specifically
for
the
Building
Horizons
program
§ Responsible
Agency:
Redevelopment
Agency
Evaluation:
The
City
has
worked
with
both
Habitat
for
Humanity
and
the
Coachella
Valley
Housing
Coalition
in
the
development
of
sweat
equity
homes
in
the
past.
The
City
had
an
agreement
with
Habitat
for
Humanity
for
7
homes.
To
date,
the
7
homes
have
not
been
built.
However,
this
HOUSING
II-‐217
program
has
been
successful
in
the
past
and
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
2.3.i:
Foreclosed
Home
Purchase
Investigate
the
feasibility
of
purchasing
foreclosed
homes
and
offering
them
to
residents
at
prices
affordable
to
low
and
moderate
income
households.
HUD’s
Neighborhood
Stabilization
Program
makes
emergency
assistance
grants
available
to
local
governments
for
the
acquisition,
redevelopment,
and
renting
or
resale
of
foreclosed
properties
at-‐risk
of
abandonment.
§ Timing:
Complete
study
by
June
2010
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
and
Redevelopment
Agency
Evaluation:
The
City
applied
for
but
did
not
receive
NSP
funds.
However,
the
City
did
purchase
five
foreclosed
homes
in
the
Cove,
which
were
rehabbed
for
rental/sale.
Given
the
upward
trending
of
the
housing
market,
this
program
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
2.3.j:
Second
Trust
Deed
Loan
Program
In
second
trust
deed
loan
programs
jurisdictions
and
agencies
assist
lower
or
moderate
income
households
purchase
a
home
by
providing
a
mortgage
subsidy.
The
City
will
explore
utilizing
a
silent
second
trust
deed
program
to
facilitate
homeownership.
§ Timing:
Complete
study
by
June
2010
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
and
Redevelopment
Agency
Evaluation:
The
Agency
manages
419
existing
second
trust
deeds
for
lower
and
moderate
income
homeowners.
There
were
no
funds
available
to
add
to
the
program,
and
with
the
elimination
of
redevelopment,
no
additional
funds
are
expected.
This
program
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐2.3.k:
Housing
Related
Parks
Program
The
Department
of
Housing
and
Community
Development
is
preparing
to
establish
a
grant
program
to
assist
in
the
development
of
parkland
in
lower
income
areas.
The
City
will
track
the
process
of
the
Housing
Related
Parks
Program
and
HOUSING
II-‐218
seek
funding
should
the
City
qualify
under
the
finalized
program
guidelines.
§ Timing:
Periodically
review
HCD
website,
program
availability
to
be
determined
by
HCD
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
and
Redevelopment
Agency
Evaluation:
The
Community
Services
Department
tracks
all
sources
of
grant
funding
for
park
acquisition
and
improvements.
The
focus
on
this
particular
program
does
not
seem
appropriate,
given
the
number
of
different
sources
available
for
park
grant
programs.
This
program
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Removal
of
Governmental
Constraints
to
Housing
v Policy
H-‐3.1
Remove
unnecessary
regulatory
constraints
to
enable
the
construction
or
rehabilitation
of
housing
that
meets
the
needs
of
La
Quinta
residents,
including
lower
income
and
special
needs
residents.
Evaluation:
The
City
Planning
Department
monitors
all
municipal
code
amendments
to
assure
that
they
do
not
impose
a
constraint
on
the
development
of
affordable
housing,
and
will
continue
to
do
so.
This
policy
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
v Policy
H-‐3.2
Coordinate
the
development
of
affordable
housing
with
the
provision
of
key
utilities
to
ensure
prompt
and
adequate
service.
Evaluation:
All
new
projects
are
routed
to
the
City’s
utility
providers
for
review
and
comment.
Further,
infrastructure
for
utilities
is
in
place
throughout
the
City,
and
extensions
generally
consist
of
laterals
and
similar
minor
additions
to
the
system.
This
policy
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
v 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.
HOUSING
II-‐219
Program
H-‐3.3.a:
Assessment
District/Water/Sewer
Subsidy
Program
The
City’s
Assessment
District/Water/Sewer
Subsidy
Program
alleviated
some
of
the
financial
hardship
on
lower
and
moderate
income
households
by
providing
assistance
to
cover
the
cost
of
assessment
districts,
plumbing
installation
fees,
and
sewer
connection
fees.
§ Objective:
Investigate
funding
resources
for
reinstating
the
Assessment
District/Water/Sewer
Subsidy
Program
during
the
planning
period.
§ Timing:
December
2010
§ Funding
Source:
Study
funded
by
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Redevelopment
Agency
Evaluation:
Due
to
a
lack
of
funding
resources,
the
Agency
did
not
assist
any
lower
income
households
under
this
program
during
the
2006 -‐2014
planning
period.
With
the
elimination
of
redevelopment
by
the
State,
no
funds
are
available
for
the
future
funding
of
the
program
This
program
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐3.3.b:
Priority
Water
and
Sewer
Service
In
compliance
with
state
law,
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
(CVWD)
must
create
procedures
to
provide
priority
water
and
sewer
service
to
lower
income
residential
project.
The
law
also
prohibits
the
denial
or
conditioning
the
approval
of
service
without
adequate
findings,
and
requires
future
water
management
plans
to
identify
projected
water
use
for
lower
income
residential
development.
§ Objective:
Route
the
adopted
Housing
Element
to
the
CVWD
and
notify
them
of
changes
and
future
updates
to
the
Housing
Element.
§ Timing:
Upon
Housing
Element
adoption
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
CVWD
is
aware
of
the
requirements
of
law,
and
has
never,
to
the
City’s
knowledge,
denied
a
project
or
prevented
connections
for
an
affordable
housing
project
in
the
City.
The
City
will
continue
to
work
with
CVWD
in
the
processing
of
applications
in
a
timely
manner.
This
program
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
HOUSING
II-‐220
Program
H-‐3.3.c:
Review
Permitting
Fees
and
Processing
Times
Study
permitting
fees
and
processing
times
to
identify
any
potential
opportunities
to
streamline
the
process
and
reduce
the
cost
of
the
entitlement
process
for
projects
with
an
affordable
housing
component.
§ Objective:
Identify
means
of
reducing
fees
and
processing
times
for
projects
with
an
affordable
housing
component.
§ Timing:
Complete
study
by
June
2011
§ Funding
Source:
General
plan
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
City
expects
to
complete
an
overhaul
of
its
application
process
and
a
comprehensive
review
of
Planning
fees
during
the
planning
period.
The
Planning
Department
applications
were
streamlined
and
simplified
to
aid
developers
in
filling
out
the
forms.
The
fee
schedule
now
reflects
the
actual
costs
of
processing
applications.
This
program
was
completed,
and
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H
3.3.d:
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.
§ 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:
Coordinate
with
2009/2011
General
Plan
update
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
HOUSING
II-‐221
Evaluation:
The
second
phase
of
zoning
ordinance
amendments
not
related
to
the
provision
of
housing
is
currently
under
way.
As
part
of
this
phase,
the
City
is
considering
the
inclusion
of
maximum
(rather
than
minimum)
parking
requirements,
particularly
for
affordable
and
senior
housing.
In
addition,
the
City
completed
a
parking
study
for
the
Village
in
2006.
This
program
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐3.3.e:
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,
City-‐assisted
parcel
assemblage
and
mergers,
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,
2012
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
Due
to
the
difficulties
associated
with
getting
multiple
property
owners
to
work
together
on
consolidation
of
parcels,
the
RDA
embarked
on
a
property
purchase
strategy
toward
consolidation
of
City-‐
owned
parcels
during
the
planning
period
for
potential
future
projects.
Specific
examples
are
in
the
Dune
Palms/Westward
Ho
area
in
the
north
part
of
the
City,
and
in
the
Village
area.
Many
of
these
parcels
have
been
consolidated
by
the
City,
but
currently,
the
acquired
sites
are
tied
up
due
to
the
elimination
of
Redevelopment.
This
program
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Preservation
and
Rehabilitation
of
Housing
Stock
v Policy
H-‐4.1
Protect
the
quality
of
La
Quinta’s
neighborhoods
through
the
rehabilitation
of
both
affordable
and
market-‐rate
homes.
Evaluation:
There
were
no
rehab
programs
funded
during
the
Planning
period.
However,
the
City
did
purchase
five
foreclosed
homes
in
the
Cove,
which
were
rehabbed
for
rental/sale.
The
City
does
not
envision
having
funds
for
such
programs
in
the
near
future.
This
program
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
HOUSING
II-‐222
v Policy
H-‐4.2
Promote
financial
and
technical
assistance
to
lower
and
moderate
income
households
for
housing
maintenance
and
improvements.
Evaluation:
The
City
did
not
have
available
funding
for
this
level
of
assistance,
and
relied
on
Riverside
County
and
other
third-‐party
programs
to
fill
this
need.
Although
redevelopment
funds
have
been
eliminated,
and
can
no
longer
be
applied
to
this
program,
the
City
will
continue
to
monitor
third
party
programs,
including
County
assistance
programs,
and
direct
households
to
these
programs
when
appropriate.
This
program
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
v Policy
H-‐4.3
Encourage
the
retention
and
rehabilitation
of
existing
single-‐family
neighborhoods
and
mobile
home
parks
that
are
economically
and
physically
sound.
v Policy
H-‐4.4
Enhance
neighborhoods
that
presently
provide
affordable
housing
with
drainage,
lighting
and
landscape
amenities,
and
parks
and
recreation
areas.
Program
H-‐4.4.a:
Residential
Rehabilitation
Program
The
Residential
Rehabilitation
Program
provides
low
interest
loans
up
to
$25,000
for
property
and
structural
repairs
and
rehabilitation
of
single-‐family
homes
and
small
multifamily
projects.
The
Residential
Rehabilitation
Program
encompasses
a
code
compliance
component
to
assist
lower
income
homeowners
that
have
been
cited
for
minor
code
violations.
§ Objective:
Revise
the
program
to
meet
current
needs,
as
determined
in
the
Redevelopment
Agency
Implementation
Plan,
to
be
updated
in
2009.
Assist
20
lower
income
households.
§ Timing:
2006–2014
§ Funding
Source:
CDBG
and
LMIHF
§ Responsible
Agency:
Redevelopment
Agency
Evaluation:
No
housing
units
were
assisted
under
this
program
during
the
Planning
period.
With
the
elimination
of
redevelopment,
there
are
no
funds
available
for
this
program.
This
program
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
HOUSING
II-‐223
Program
4.4.b:
Housing
Condition
Monitoring
To
better
understand
the
City’s
housing
needs
the
quality
and
condition
of
the
housing
stock
must
be
inventoried
on
a
regular
basis.
The
inventory
should
focus
on
older
neighborhoods,
such
as
those
south
of
Calle
Tampico,
west
of
Washington
Street,
and
north
of
Highway
111.
§ Objective:
Maintain
an
inventory
of
housing
conditions
(updated
approximately
every
five
years)
to
enable
the
City
to
properly
target
Code
Compliance
and
rehabilitation
resources.
§ Timing:
Complete
by
January
1,
2014
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
and
Code
Compliance
Evaluation:
The
housing
in
the
City
was
evaluated
in
2007.
In
addition,
Code
Compliance
monitors
units
in
disrepair,
and
implements
corrective
action
when
necessary.
The
survey
will
require
updating
at
the
beginning
of
the
next
planning
period.
This
program
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐
2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐4.4.c:
County
of
Riverside
Senior
Residential
Rehabilitation
The
Minor
Senior
Home
Repair
program
allocates
grants
up
to
$250
per
year
for
lower
income
seniors
for
minor
housing
repairs,
such
as
painting
doors
or
trim,
or
repairing
a
window.
The
Enhanced
Senior
Home
Repair
Program
provides
major
rehabilitation
and
repair
for
low
income
seniors,
providing
a
one-‐time
grant
for
repairs
to
homes
owned
and
occupied
by
seniors
and/or
persons
with
disabilities.
The
maximum
level
of
assistance
for
this
program
is
$3,000
per
year.
§ Objective:
Continue
to
refer
code
violators
and
interested
parties
to
the
County
of
Riverside
Minor
and
Enhanced
Senior
Home
Repair
programs
and
other
local
resources.
Assist
homeowners
in
completing
applications
as
necessary.
§ Timing:
2006–2014,
on
a
case-‐by-‐case
basis
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
and
Code
Compliance
Division
HOUSING
II-‐224
Program
H-‐4.4.d:
County
of
Riverside
Home
Repair
Grant
The
County
of
Riverside
Economic
Development
Agency
Home
Repair
Program
provides
lower
income
households
with
up
to
$6,000
for
home
repairs
such
as
a
new
roof,
new
air-‐
conditioner,
or
a
handicap
ramp.
As
a
jurisdiction
in
Riverside
County,
lower
income
La
Quinta
households
are
eligible
for
this
grant.
§ Objective:
Refer
code
violators
and
interested
parties
to
the
County
of
Riverside
for
home
repair
grants.
§ Timing:
2006–2014,
on
a
case-‐by-‐case
basis
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
and
Code
Compliance
Division
Evaluation:
To
the
extent
that
these
County
programs
have
been
funded,
the
City
has
referred
homeowners
to
the
appropriate
County
staff.
These
programs
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐4.4.e:
Rehabilitation
Resources
List
Lower
and
moderate
income
homeowners
may
need
assistance
in
affording
important
home
repairs
and
improvements.
The
City
can
assist
these
households
by
compiling
and
sharing
a
listing
of
local,
state,
and
federal
programs
offering
rehabilitation
assistance.
§ Objective:
Provide
a
rehabilitation
resources
list
on
the
affordable
housing
and
code
compliance
pages
of
the
City’s
website.
Use
the
list,
in
online
or
printed
form,
as
a
reference
for
code
violators.
§ Timing:
Create
list
by
March
2010
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department,
Code
Compliance
Division,
and
Redevelopment
Agency
Evaluation:
The
City
did
not
implement
this
program
due
to
lack
of
resources
resulting
from
staff
cuts.
However,
the
program
has
the
potential
to
be
a
good
resource
for
homeowners,
and
should
be
considered
in
the
future.
This
program
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐
2021
planning
period.
HOUSING
II-‐225
Equal
Housing
Opportunity
v Policy
5.1
Provide
the
regulatory
framework
to
create
an
environment
in
which
housing
opportunities
are
equal.
Evaluation:
The
City
regularly
reviews
and
amends
its
Municipal
Code
to
assure
that
all
aspects
of
it
comply
with
the
law.
This
activity
will
continue.
This
policy
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
v Policy
5.2
Encourage
and
support
the
enforcement
of
laws
and
regulations
prohibiting
discrimination
in
lending
practices
and
in
the
sale
or
rental
of
housing.
Evaluation:
The
City
monitors
housing
complaints
and
refers
all
complaints
to
the
Riverside
County
Fair
Housing
Council,
which
has
jurisdiction
over
these
matters.
This
policy
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐
2021
planning
period.
v Policy
5.3
Encourage
support
services
for
the
Coachella
Valley’s
senior
and
homeless
populations
through
referrals
and
collaborative
efforts
with
non-‐profits
and
other
jurisdictions.
Evaluation:
The
City
did
not
implement
this
program
due
to
lack
of
staff
resources
resulting
from
staff
cuts.
However,
the
program
has
the
potential
to
be
a
good
resource
for
homeowners,
and
should
be
considered
in
the
future.
This
policy
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
v Policy
5.4
Assist
in
the
creation
of
a
continuum
of
care
for
the
homeless
population
and
those
transitioning
into
permanent
housing.
Evaluation:
While
the
City
has
supported
the
CVAG
Homeless
Committee
efforts,
it
did
not
provide
funding
for
Roy’s
Desert
Resource
Center,
a
90
bed
homeless
facility
located
in
Palm
Springs.
Instead,
during
the
2006-‐
2014
planning
period,
the
City
committed
$50,000
toward
construction
of
a
new
facility
for
the
Coachella
Valley
Rescue
Mission,
which
provides
homeless
and
other
services.
The
City
also
committed
$50,000
to
Martha’s
Village
and
Kitchen
for
a
new
facility
for
that
organization.
This
program
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
HOUSING
II-‐226
v Policy
5.5
Improve
quality
of
life
for
disabled
persons
by
facilitating
relief
from
regulatory
requirements
that
may
create
barriers
to
accessible
housing
and
promoting
universal
design.
Evaluation:
The
zoning
ordinance
amendments
completed
in
June
of
2013
included
universal
design
principles
and
provisions
for
a
reasonable
accommodation
review
process.
The
City
continues
to
facilitate
development
of
accessible
housing
for
all
its
residents.
This
program
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐5.5.a:
Zoning
Code
and
Discrimination
The
City
of
La
Quinta
seeks
to
provide
fair
regulations
to
guide
development
within
the
community.
The
City
must
ensure
that
amendments
to
the
Zoning
Code
do
not
enact
regulations
causing
or
contributing
to
discrimination
against
any
residential
development
because
of
race,
sex,
religion,
national
origin,
marital
status,
or
disability
of
its
owners
or
intended
occupants.
§ Objective:
Analyze
proposed
amendments
to
the
Zoning
Code
to
prevent
discriminatory
changes.
§ Timing:
2006–2014
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
zoning
ordinance
amendments
completed
in
June
of
2013
did
not
contain
or
uncover
any
discriminatory
provisions.
This
program
was
completed
and
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐5.5.b:
Shared
Housing
a
Riverside
Experience
(SHARE)
SHARE
is
a
nonprofit
organization
whose
purpose
is
to
promote
home
sharing.
Home
sharing
programs
provide
referral/matching
services
to
people
with
limited
incomes
seeking
housing,
and
homeowners
who
wish
to
share
their
home.
SHARE
targets
senior
citizens
and
estimates
that
50
percent
of
these
matches
involve
economically
disadvantaged
groups,
with
25
percent
of
these
matches
involving
very
low
income
households.
§ Objective:
Encourage
participation
in
home
sharing,
particularly
for
lower
income
seniors,
by
promoting
the
HOUSING
II-‐227
SHARE
program
on
the
affordable
housing
page
of
the
City’s
website
and
at
the
La
Quinta
Senior
Center.
§ Timing:
Update
website
and
distribute
information
to
the
Senior
Center
by
March
2010
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
and
Senior
Center
Evaluation:
SHARE
is
inactive,
and
does
not
appear
to
be
providing
services.
However,
the
Senior
Center
makes
every
effort
to
refer
its
clients
to
resources
available
for
seniors.
This
program
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐5.5.c:
Manufactured
Housing
Assistance
Program
Manufactured
homes
on
permanent
foundations
are
a
cost
effective
alternative
to
the
traditional
single-‐family
detached
home.
§ Objective:
Continue
to
maintain
the
potential
for
manufactured
homes
in
residential
designations
as
an
affordable
housing
resource
(formerly
Mobile
Home
Park
Assistance
Program).
§ Timing:
2006–2014
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
zoning
ordinance
amendments
completed
in
June
of
2013
did
not
change
the
current
zoning
provisions
that
allow
manufactured
housing
on
single
family
lots.
There
is
no
need
for
this
program,
and
it
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐5.5.d:
Reasonable
Accommodation
Ordinance
Disabled
individuals
or
those
acting
on
their
behalf
to
may
need
to
request
reasonable
accommodation
from
land
use,
zoning,
or
building
rules,
practices,
and/or
procedures
of
the
City
in
order
to
obtain
adequate
housing.
§ Objective:
Adopt
a
process
for
reasonable
accommodation,
including
a
provision
of
assistance
in
making
the
request,
as
well
as
for
appealing
a
determination.
§ Timing:
Adopt
ordinance
by
March
2010
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
HOUSING
II-‐228
Evaluation:
The
zoning
ordinance
amendments
completed
in
June
of
2013
included
a
reasonable
accommodation
section
in
the
Residential
standards.
This
program
was
completed
and
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐5.5.e:
Universal
Design
Universal
design
refers
to
barrier-‐free
and
accessible
design
that
may
incorporate
personal
assistance
technology.
Universal
design
creates
spaces
that
are
accessible
to
persons
with
disabilities,
but
also
designed
for
general
use.
Broad-‐application
of
universal
design
standards
would
result
in
new
and
rehabilitated
homes
that
are
appropriate
for
an
entire
lifecycle,
from
infant
to
elder.
By
incorporating
universal
design
features
the
ability
of
the
housing
stock
to
meet
existing
and
future
needs
would
be
greatly
improved.
§ Objective:
Review
existing
development
standards
and
evaluate
the
potential
for
requiring
new
development
and/or
rehabilitation
to
utilize
universal
design
features.
§ Timing:
Coordinate
with
2009/2011
General
Plan
Update
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
zoning
ordinance
amendments
completed
in
June
of
2013
incorporated
universal
design
principles
in
the
development
standards
added
to
the
residential
sections
of
the
document.
This
program
was
completed
and
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐5.5.f:
Regional
Facilities
for
the
Homeless
Continue
to
support
and
collaborate
with
the
Coachella
Valley
Association
of
Governments
Homelessness
Committee
efforts
to
create
a
regional
homeless
facility
that
will
provide
housing
as
well
as
supportive
services.
The
Strategic
Plan
created
by
the
Homelessness
Committee
establishes
a
continuum
of
care
for
the
Coachella
Valley.
§ Timing:
Council
voted
to
support
in
2008;
City
staff
will
continue
to
collaborate
with
CVAG
throughout
the
planning
period
(2006–2014)
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
While
the
City
has
supported
the
CVAG
Homeless
Committee
efforts,
the
City
did
not
participate
in
funding
Roy’s
Desert
Resource
HOUSING
II-‐229
Center
(“Roy’s”),
which
is
in
the
west
end
of
the
Coachella
Valley.
Instead,
the
City
committed
$50,000
in
funding
towards
a
new
facility
for
the
Coachella
Valley
Rescue
Mission,
which
currently
shelters
150+
men,
women
and
children
and
is
located
in
Indio.
The
City
also
committed
$50,000
to
Martha’s
Village
and
Kitchen,
also
toward
construction
of
a
new
facility.
The
City
Council
believes
these
facilities
to
be
a
more
logical
service
extension
for
La
Quinta’s
homeless,
due
to
its
proximity
to
La
Quinta.
Continuing
evaluation
and
support
of
these
programs
will
be
extended
in
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐5.5.g:
Emergency
Shelters,
Transitional
Housing,
and
Permanent
Supportive
Housing
Recent
state
legislation
(Senate
Bill
2)
has
provided
direction
for
local
governments
to
address
the
housing
needs
of
the
homeless.
Emergency
Shelters,
Transitional
Housing,
and
Permanent
Supportive
Housing
are
all
components
of
a
curriculum
of
care
for
the
homeless.
Although
the
Riverside
County
Homeless
Census
did
not
identify
any
homeless
population
in
La
Quinta,
the
City
seeks
to
comply
with
SB
2
by
contributing
to
efforts
to
meet
the
needs
of
the
homeless
throughout
the
region.
Emergency
shelters
are
usually
the
first
step
in
a
homeless
continuum
of
care
program
designed
to
allow
homeless
people
a
temporary
place
of
stay.
Although
the
Municipal
Code
lists
emergency
shelters
as
a
permitted
use
in
all
commercial
zones,
no
definition
is
provided
for
this
use.
Furthermore,
transitional
shelters
are
defined
as
temporary
or
more
emergency-‐basis
uses
in
the
Municipal
Code
and
are
conditionally
permitted
in
the
Regional
Commercial
(CR)
and
Major
Community
Facilities
(MC)
zones.
However,
actual
transitional
housing
typically
accommodates
homeless
people
for
up
to
two
years
as
they
stabilize
their
lives
and
does
not
meet
emergency
needs.
Transitional
housing
includes
training
and
services
that
are
vital
for
rehabilitating
and
enriching
the
lives
of
the
formerly
homeless.
Transitional
housing
facilities
provide
families
and
individuals
with
a
safe
place
within
which
to
rebuild
their
lives
and
prepare
for
independence.
Permanent
supportive
housing
is
affordable
housing
with
on-‐
or
off-‐site
services
that
help
a
person
maintain
a
stable,
housed,
life.
This
use
is
not
currently
addressed
in
the
Zoning
Code.
§ Objective:
Update
the
Zoning
Code
to
include
legally
adequate
and
appropriate
definitions
for
emergency
HOUSING
II-‐230
shelters,
transitional
housing,
and
permanent
supportive
housing.
Emergency
shelters
will
be
permitted
without
discretionary
approval
in
the
MC
zone
and
conditionally
permitted
in
the
CR
zone.
Transitional
and
supportive
housing
types
will
be
permitted
as
any
other
residential
use
in
residential
zones.
Development
and
operation
standards
will
be
developed
in
compliance
with
Senate
Bill
2
to
ensure
proper
construction
or
building
adaptation
for
emergency
shelter
use.
§ Timing:
Coordinate
with
2009/2011
General
Plan
Update
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
zoning
ordinance
amendments
completed
in
June
of
2013
included
legally
adequate
definitions
of
emergency
shelters,
transitional
housing
and
supportive
housing.
The
amendments
also
continued
emergency
shelters
as
permitted
uses
in
all
commercial
zones,
and
added
transitional
and
supportive
housing
in
the
residential
zones
consistent
with
the
regulations
for
similar
uses
(such
as
group
homes).
This
program
was
completed
and
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐5.5.h:
Fair
Housing
Referrals
Fair
housing
organizations
provide
dispute
resolution
and
legal
assistance
to
tenants
and
landlords
in
conflict.
Such
services
are
particularly
important
for
lower
and
moderate
income
households
unable
to
afford
counsel.
§ Objective:
Continue
to
refer
tenants
and
landlords
to
the
Fair
Housing
Council
of
Riverside
County.
Provide
information
on
fair
housing
resources
on
the
City’s
website
and
at
City
Hall.
Identify
and
coordinate
with
local
nonprofits,
service
organizations
and
community
groups
that
can
assist
in
distributing
fair
housing
information.
§ Timing:
Referral
service
as
needed.
Information
to
be
placed
on
website
and
local
groups
identified
by
December
2010
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
City
refers
all
fair
housing
issues
to
the
Fair
Housing
Council,
and
will
continue
to
do
so.
Information
regarding
the
Council
is
available
at
city
hall,
the
senior
center
and
other
locations
in
the
City.
This
program
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
HOUSING
II-‐231
Program
H-‐5.5.i:
Directory
of
Services
While
numerous
services
are
available
to
special
needs
and
lower
income
households,
it
can
be
difficult
to
readily
have
access
to
these
resources.
A
directory
provides
the
contact
information
necessary
to
seek
housing
assistance.
§ Objective:
Develop
an
online
directory
of
services
and
information
to
provide
La
Quinta
residents
with
contact
information
for
community
organizations
and
service
providers
that
address
special
needs.
§ Timing:
Update
website
by
June
2010
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
City
maintains
a
partial
list
of
housing
resources/services
but
did
not
complete
this
program
due
to
loss
of
staff
assigned
to
housing
programs,
associated
with
the
elimination
of
redevelopment.
The
directory,
however,
could
be
a
valuable
resource.
In
addition,
the
City
has
recently
hired
a
Housing
Coordinator.
This
program
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Energy
and
Water
Conservation
v Policy
H-‐6.1
Promote
higher
density
and
compact
developments
that
increase
energy
efficiency
and
reduce
land
consumption.
Evaluation:
The
new
General
Plan
promotes
mixed
use
development,
and
the
zoning
ordinance
is
being
amended
to
include
standards
for
mixed
use
development.
These
changes
will
be
completed
by
the
end
of
2013.
The
City
also
continues
to
promote
energy
efficiency
through
its
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan,
and
its
Green
and
Sustainable
La
Quinta
Program.
This
policy
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
v Policy
H-‐6.2
Facilitate
housing
development
and
rehabilitation
that
conserves
natural
resources
and
minimizes
greenhouse
gas
emissions.
Evaluation:
The
new
General
Plan
promotes
greenhouse
gas
reduction
in
the
Livable
Community
Element.
The
City
also
continues
to
promote
its
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan,
and
its
Green
and
Sustainable
La
Quinta
Program.
This
policy
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
HOUSING
II-‐232
v 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.
Evaluation:
The
new
General
Plan
promotes
green
building
in
the
Livable
Community
Element.
The
City
also
continues
to
promote
its
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan,
and
its
Green
and
Sustainable
La
Quinta
Program.
This
policy
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
v Policy
H-‐6.4
Focus
sustainability
efforts
on
measures
and
techniques
that
also
assist
the
occupant
in
reducing
energy
costs;
therefore
reducing
housing
costs.
Evaluation:
The
City
has
identified
several
residential
developments
that
incorporate
sustainable
efforts
and
help
reduce
the
occupant’s
energy
costs.
These
properties
include:
Vista
Dunes
-‐
The
Agency’s
team
prepared
site
and
building
plans
that
embraced
green
and
sustainable
design
principles.
The
project
received
LEED
Platinum
certification.
The
principles
included:
•Thermal
chimneys
to
better
ventilate
the
dwellings
•Tankless
water
heaters
to
reduce
energy/water
consumption
•Dual
flush
toilets
to
reduce
water
consumption
•Low
flow
and
oxygenated
showerheads
and
faucets
•Photovoltaic
solar
panels
for
each
dwelling
to
reduce
utility
costs
•Landscaped
trellises
to
shelter
south
and
west
facing
walls
from
the
desert
sun
•Radiant
barrier
roof
sheathing
•Drought
tolerant
indigenous
landscaping
Coral
Mountain
Apartments
-‐
The
Coral
Mountain
Apartment
community
will
incorporate
environmentally
sustainable
concepts
and
efficiency
measures.
While
it
is
not
seeking
LEED
certification,
it
is
being
designed
to
target
LEED
Silver
standards.
Design
of
the
buildings
includes
many
energy
and
water-‐efficient
amenities,
such
as
solar
tubes
to
provide
indoor
area
lighting
for
many
of
the
units,
low-‐flow
toilets
and
fixtures,
and
recirculating
water
heaters.
A
hydronic
HVAC
system
will
be
employed,
which
circulates
hot
water
from
the
water
heating
system,
using
forced
air
to
heat
the
individual
units.
Four
of
the
buildings
will
incorporate
roof-‐mounted
photovoltaic
solar
panels;
additional
panels
are
being
placed
on
top
of
carport
structures.
HOUSING
II-‐233
Washington
Street
Apartments
–
This
project
is
completing
the
final
phases
of
the
City’s
review
process.
It
consists
of
68
new
units
and
72
existing
units,
which
will
be
rehabilitated.
The
project
includes
sustainable
architectural
design
such
as
cement
plaster
finish,
aluminum
windows
and
thermal
chimneys. Carport
structures
will
incorporate
photovoltaic
solar
panels
This
policy
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
v 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
La
Quinta
Program
The
City
Council
has
identified
the
conservation
of
natural
resources
as
a
critical
concern
in
La
Quinta.
In
July
2007
the
City
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:
Adopt
new
green
goals,
policies,
and
programs
that
accurately
represent
the
City’s
direction
in
resource
conservation
and
minimizing
greenhouse
gas
emissions.
Adopt
design
standards
for
residential
and
commercial
structures
that
encourage
solar
protection
to
directly
result
in
energy
conservation.
§ Timing:
July
2012;
or
concurrent
with
2009/2011
General
Plan
Update
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
HOUSING
II-‐234
Program
H-‐6.5.b:
Energy
Conservation
Partners
In
working
toward
a
sustainable
La
Quinta,
the
City
and
its
residents
will
need
to
collaborate
with
utilities
and
service
providers.
Partnerships
with
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District,
Imperial
Irrigation
District,
Southern
California
Gas,
Burrtec
Waste
and
Recycling
Services,
Sunline
Transit
District,
Coachella
Valley
Association
of
Governments,
Southern
California
Association
of
Governments
and
other
entities
will
be
an
important
component
of
making
La
Quinta
a
more
sustainable
city.
§ Objective:
Continue
to
meet
with
and
seek
insight
from
utilities,
service
providers,
and
other
entities
involved
in
energy
conservation
efforts
appropriate
for
La
Quinta.
§ Timing:
2006–2014
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
City
Manager’s
Office/
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
The
City
is
working
with
local
conservation
partners
to
implement
the
adopted
Green
and
Sustainable
La
Quinta
Program,
including
Burrtec
Waste
&
Recycling,
Coachella
Valley
Water
District,
Imperial
Irrigation
District,
and
Southern
California
Gas
Company.
The
City
maintains
an
inventory
of
sustainable
goals
and
accomplishments
on
the
Going
Green
website.
The
following
table
identifies
current
and
planned
goals
of
the
Green
and
Sustainable
La
Quinta
Program.
HOUSING
II-‐235
The
City
of
La
Quinta
Sustainability
Goals
and
Accomplishments
Goals
and
Accomplishments
Goal
In-‐
Process/
On-‐
Going
Completed
Identify
Greenhouse
Gas
Emissions
inventory
baselines
and
specific
targets
for
improvements,
on
a
regional
and
local
level
X
Expand
sustainability
outreach/education
including
website
“Going
Green”
section
X
Initiate
Smart
Growth/LEED
Training
for
selected
staff
members
X
Develop
policy
and
plan
for
100%
conversion
to
clean/green
fleet
X
Initiate
a
Pilot
AB
811
Loan
Program
X
Facilitate
energy
audits
for
top
uses
and
support
energy
efficiency
actions
X
Implement
a
Curbside
Household
Hazardous
Waste
Program
X
Expand
the
number
of
Household
Hazardous
Waste
Events
at
City
Hall/Corporate
Yard
X
Develop
an
Environmentally
Preferable
Purchases
and
Practices
Policy
X
Expand
outreach
and
education
for
waste
reduction
and
recycling,
water
and
natural
gas
conservation,
and
energy
efficiency
X
Implement
energy
efficiency
improvements
of
City
facilities
as
recommended
by
Imperial
Irrigation
District
X
Identify
water
usage
benchmarks
and
develop
water
conservation
goals
X
Jointly
(City
and
IID)
offer
an
energy
product
(Energy
Meter)
to
city
residents
at
a
reduced
cost
X
Investigate
program
implementation
of:
food
waste
recycling
and
non-‐controlled
medication
disposal
X
Expand
promotion
of
commercial
recycling
program
X
Conduct
Green
Workshops
and
coordinate
energy
audits
with
Homeowners
associations
X
Seek
opportunities
for
energy
and
environmental
grants,
including
a
bike
path
grant
X
Install
LED
flash
warning
devices:
Adams
St.,
Eisenhower
Dr.,
and
Avenida
Bermudes
X
Replace
video
detection
system
at
three
intersections
X
Establish
a
Compressed
Natural
Gas
Fueling
station
(Fire
Station)
X
Host
shred
day
events
X
Participate
in
Desert
Cities
Energy
Partnership
to
achieve
funding
for
energy
programs
and
events
X
This
program
is
successful
and
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
HOUSING
II-‐236
Program
H-‐6.5.c:
Cooperative
Water
Management
Program
for
Cove
Homes
The
Redevelopment
Agency
upgrades
the
plumbing,
heating,
air
conditioning,
and
other
equipment
in
their
Cove
Homes
during
the
rehabilitation
process
prior
to
sale.
In
2008
the
City
Council
approved
collaborative
efforts
between
the
Agency
and
Coachella
Valley
Water
District.
The
Agency
is
participating
in
the
Coachella
Valley
Cooperative
Water
Management
Program
to
improve
water
efficiency
in
Cove
Homes.
§ Objective:
Implement
the
Cooperative
Water
Management
Program
for
the
Agency’s
Cove
Homes
and
evaluate
the
feasibility
of
implementing
changes
to
existing
landscape
and
irrigation
when
Cove
Homes
are
sold.
§ Timing:
2006–2014
§ Funding
Source:
LMIHF
and/or
CVWD
program
funds
§ Responsible
Agency:
Redevelopment
Agency
Evaluation:
The
Cooperative
Landscape
Water
Management
Program
was
composed
of
three
parts;
Residential
Turf
Conversions
(individual),
HOA/Commercial
Turf
Conversions,
and
commercial
properties.
The
City’s
first
landscape
conversion
took
place
on
August
26,
2008.
As
of
March
2010,
71
La
Quinta
residents
(including
2
RDA
owned
homes)
had
completed
the
program,
which
went
unfunded
after
2011.
With
the
elimination
of
redevelopment,
it
is
unlikely
that
the
City
will
be
able
to
fund
this
program,
and
it
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐6.5.d:
Landscape
Water
Management
Program
In
2008
the
City
formed
a
partnership
with
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
to
start
a
citywide
Landscape
Water
Management
Program.
The
program
provides
affordable
landscape
design
and
consulting
services
to
assist
homeowners
in
making
landscaping
improvements
to
reduce
sprinkler
runoff
and
reduce
the
amount
of
water
used
for
landscaping.
In
accordance
with
the
program
the
City
amended
the
Municipal
Code
to
provide
more
restricted
water
efficient
landscaping
standards.
The
City
adopted
a
landscape
water
management
program
that
will
reimburse
homeowners
up
to
$1,000
to
replace
inefficient
landscape
design,
materials,
and
irrigation
systems.
HOUSING
II-‐237
§ Objective:
Assist
50
households
to
reduce
water
waste
and
water
use
for
landscaping
through
the
Landscape
Water
Management
Program.
§ Timing:
2006–2014
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund,
CVWD
program
funds,
potential
AB
811
special
assessment
district
funds
§ Responsible
Agency:
City
Manager’s
Office/
Planning
Department
Evaluation:
As
previously
mentioned,
the
Cooperative
Landscape
Water
Management
Program
assisted
71
homes,
including
the
installation
of
301
weather-‐based
irrigation
controllers
as
of
March
2010.
It
should
be
noted
that
the
program
assisted
all
27
RDA
owned
homes.
Funding
for
the
program
ended
December
17,
2012.
With
the
elimination
of
redevelopment,
it
is
unlikely
that
the
City
will
be
able
to
fund
this
program,
and
it
will
not
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐6.5.e:
Imperial
Irrigation
District
Programs
The
Imperial
Irrigation
District
(IID)
is
proactive
in
energy
savings
via
conservation
programs,
product
rebates,
and
general
tips.
An
average
home
owner
can
save
up
to
10
percent
on
energy/energy
bills
by
taking
advantage
of
IID
programs.
Home
owners
can
utilize
the
free
“Check
Me!”
program,
which
checks
the
refrigerant
charge
and
airflow
of
their
air
conditioning/heating
units.
IID
also
offers
a
rebate
on
the
purchase
of
higher
efficiency
air
conditioning
units,
high
efficiency
refrigerators,
programmable
thermostats,
and
ENERGY
STAR
equipment.
City
staff
has
held
several
meetings
with
IID
representatives
to
discuss
opportunities
for
collaboration
to
conserve
energy
in
La
Quinta,
including
water
management
opportunities
for
golf
courses
and
golf-‐oriented
communities.
§ Objective:
Follow
up
with
IID
to
establish
and
market
a
plan
to
participate
in
programs
that
are
most
beneficial
to
La
Quinta
residents
and
homeowners;
continue
to
develop
HVAC
retrofitting
program
with
IID.
§ Timing:
Adopt
plan
by
June
2010
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund,
IID
program
funds,
and
potential
AB
811
special
assessment
district
funds
§ Responsible
Agency:
City
Manager’s
Office/
Planning
Department
HOUSING
II-‐238
Evaluation:
The
City’s
Going
Green
website
provides
information
on
IID
rebates
through
links
to
their
rebate
website,
including
the
Residential
ENERGY
STAR
rebate
program.
IID
is
continuing
to
offer
free,
in-‐home
residential
and
commercial
energy
audits
and
follow
up
list
of
recommendations
intended
to
reduce
energy
consumption
and
the
monthly
bill.
The
City
works
through
its
partnership
with
IID
and
markets
this
program
through
meetings
with
Homeowners’
Association
boards
and
various
City
sponsored
events
to
encourage
La
Quinta
residents
an d
business
to
sign
up
for
these
free
energy
audits.
This
program
is
successful
and
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Program
H-‐6.5.f:
Weatherization
Assistance
The
Federal
Department
of
Energy’s
Weatherization
Assistance
Program,
in
conjunction
with
state
and
local
programs,
provide
low
or
no
cost
weatherization
and
insulation
services
to
reduce
the
heating
and
cooling
costs
for
low
income
households.
§ Objective:
Encourage
low
income
homeowners
or
renters
to
apply
for
free
energy
audits,
home
weatherization,
and
utility
rebate
programs
by
advertising
available
programs
on
the
City’s
website
and
at
City
Hall.
§ Timing:
Advertise
by
March
2010
§ Funding:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Building
and
Safety
Department/
City
Manager’s
Office
Evaluation:
The
City
is
currently
advertising
available
programs
for
free
energy
audits,
home
weatherization,
and
utility
rebate
programs
on
the
City’s
website
and
at
City
Hall
through
handouts/flyers/posted
info.
This
program
is
successful
and
will
be
extended
into
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Public
Participation
California
Government
Code
requires
that
local
governments
make
a
diligent
effort
to
achieve
public
participation
from
all
economic
segments
of
the
community
in
the
development
of
the
housing
element.
The
City’s
public
outreach
efforts
focused
on
community
and
stakeholder
workshops,
information
dissemination
through
the
City’s
website,
electronic
mail
notifications
and
public
hearings.
Together,
this
input
helped
the
City
understand
and
respond
to
the
housing
needs
of
the
community.
HOUSING
II-‐239
Community
and
Stakeholder
Workshops
Personal
invitations
were
sent
to
local
and
regional
development
entities,
advocacy
groups
and
interested
parties
via
mail.
In
addition,
the
workshops
were
advertised
on
the
City’s
web
site,
and
as
display
ads
in
the
Desert
Sun
newspaper.
Two
workshops
were
held:
one
for
stakeholders
and
one
for
residents
at
large.
The
comments
and
input
received
from
the
stakeholders
centered
on
the
economic
hardship
created
when
redevelopment
was
eliminated
by
the
State.
The
development
community
is
struggling
to
make
up
the
gap
left
by
the
elimination
of
set
aside
funds.
The
comments
received
from
residents
centered
mostly
on
aesthetic
issues,
including
in
particular
building
height,
and
maintaining
the
2
story
limits
and
allowing
underground
parking
to
provide
for
density.
State
Review
and
Public
Hearings
The
Draft
Element
was
submitted
to
the
California
Department
of
Housing
and
Community
Development
(HCD)
for
review
and
certification.
The
City
has
received
and
responded
to
review
comments
from
HCD
to
address
their
concerns.
Once
the
document
has
been
certified
by
HCD,
the
Housing
Element
Update
will
involve
a
noticed
public
hearing
before
both
the
Planning
Commission
and
City
Council,
with
the
documents
available
for
public
review
at
City
Hall
and
on
the
City’s
website.
HOUSING
VISION
STATEMENT
A
Housing
Vision
Statement
was
developed
based
on
the
key
housing
issues
and
through
cooperation
of
the
citizens
and
elected
officials
of
the
City
of
La
Quinta.
The
housing
policies
and
programs
included
in
this
Housing
Element
are
designed
to
bring
this
vision
to
fruition.
“The
City
of
La
Quinta’s
vision
of
the
future
for
housing
focuses
on
encouraging
the
provision
of
suitable
housing
for
all
City
residents
while
maintaining
and
enhancing
the
City’s
high
quality
of
life
for
its
residents.
Through
its
housing
programs,
the
City
will
facilitate
the
maintenance
and
improvement
of
its
existing
housing
stock
resources,
and
encourage
the
production
of
a
variety
of
new
housing
to
meet
residents’
needs,
while
preserving
the
overall
character
of
the
City.”
HOUSING
II-‐240
COMMUNITY
PROFILE
The
housing
needs
of
the
City
are
determined
by
characteristics
of
the
population
(age,
household
size,
employment,
and
ethnicity)
and
the
characteristics
of
housing
available
to
that
population
(i.e.,
number
of
units,
tenure,
size,
cost,
etc.).
This
section
explores
the
characteristics
of
the
existing
and
projected
population
and
housing
stock
in
order
to
identify
potentially
unmet
housing
needs
in
La
Quinta.
This
information
provides
direction
in
updating
the
City’s
Housing
Element
goals,
policies,
and
programs.
The
demographics
used
in
this
section
are
derived
from
US
Census
data
for
1990,
2000,
2010;
US
Census
American
Community
Survey
3
and
5
year
estimates
data,
California
Department
of
Finance,
and
the
City
of
La
Quinta.
Population
The
City
of
La
Quinta
is
one
of
nine
cities
in
the
Coachella
Valley
subregion
of
Riverside
County.
The
Coachella
Valley
includes
the
cities
of
Cathedral
City,
Coachella,
Desert
Hot
Springs,
Indian
Wells,
lndio,
La
Quinta,
Palm
Desert,
Palm
Springs,
and
Rancho
Mirage,
as
well
as
large
areas
of
unincorporated
Riverside
County.
La
Quinta
ranks
high
in
population
growth
among
California’s
471
cities.
During
the
1990s,
the
population
of
La
Quinta
grew
by
111.3
percent,
making
it
the
fastest
growing
city
in
the
Coachella
Valley
at
the
time.
The
number
of
residents
in
the
City
increased
from
11,215
to
23,694
between
1990
and
2000.
The
population
further
increased
to
37,467
by
2010,
a
smaller
but
still
significant
increase
of
58.10
percent.
The
absolute
increase
in
population
for
cities
in
the
Coachella
Valley
provides
another
perspective
for
analysis
when
size
is
taken
into
consideration.
For
example,
Indio
grew
by
the
greatest
number
of
people
from
2000
to
2010,
with
an
increase
of
approximately
26,920
people.
La
Quinta
experienced
the
third
largest
numerical
increase,
with
an
added
population
of
13,773.
Table
II-‐20
Population
Growth
City/Region
2000
2010
Census
2012
DOF
2000-‐2010
2010-‐2012
%
#
%
#
La
Quinta
23,694
37,467
58.1
13,773
38,075
1.6
608
Coachella
Valley
255,788
346,518
35.5
90,730
355,986
27,3
9,468
Riverside
County
1,545,387
2,189,641
41.7
644,254
2,268,783
3.6
79,142
Source:
2000
and
2010
Census;
DOF
2012
HOUSING
II-‐241
Table
II-‐21
Population
Growth
In
Coachella
Valley
Cities
City
2000
2010
Census
2012
DOF
Change
2000-‐
2010
Change
2010–
2012
%
#
%
#
Cathedral
City
42,647
51,200
20.1
8,553
52,108
1.8
908
Coachella
22,724
40,704
79.1
17,980
42,030
3.3
1,326
Desert
Hot
Springs
16,582
25,938
56.4
9,356
27,721
6.9
1,783
Indian
Wells
3,816
4,958
29.9
1,142
5,050
1.9
92
Indio
49,116
76,036
54.8
26,920
78,298
3.0
2,262
La
Quinta
23,694
37,467
58.1
13,773
38,190
1.9
723
Palm
Desert
41,155
48,445
17.7
7,290
49,619
2.4
1,174
Palm
Springs
42,807
44,552
4.1
1,745
45,414
1.9
862
Rancho
Mirage
13,249
17,218
30.0
3,969
17,556
2.0
338
Total
255,79
0
346,51
8
35.5
90,728
355,98
6
2.7
9,468
Source:
2000
and
2010
Census;
DOF
2012
Seasonal
Population
The
seasonal
or
part
time
resident
population
is
not
included
in
the
population
estimates
compiled
by
the
Census
Bureau
because
people
are
classified
according
to
the
location
of
their
primary
residence.
The
California
Department
of
Finance
(DOF)
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
but
as
yet
have
not
been
inhabited.
According
to
the
2010
Census,
the
overall
vacancy
rate
for
La
Quinta
is
36.9%,
while
the
seasonal
vacancy
rate
is
27.5%.
Age
Composition
Table
II-‐4
Age
Distribution,
shows
the
change
in
age
groups
from
2000
to
2010.
In
2010,
children
(ages
0–17)
comprised
22
percent
of
the
population,
adults
(ages
18–64)
represented
57
percent
and
senior
citizens
(ages
65
and
over)
made
up
20
percent.
In
2010,
the
median
age
in
La
Quinta
was
45.6
years,
significantly
older
than
Riverside
County
and
the
State
of
California
averages
of
33.7
and
HOUSING
II-‐242
35.2
years
respectively.
This
represents
a
25%
increase
in
the
City’s
median
age
since
2000.
Table
II-‐4
indicates
that
the
rate
of
growth
in
the
18-‐65
age
group
remained
fairly
constant
from
2000
to
2010.
However,
the
0-‐17
age
group
reflects
a
slower
growth
rate,
making
up
8%
less
of
the
City’s
population
in
2010.
Conversely,
growth
in
the
65+
age
category
shows
an
8%
increase
in
share
of
City
population
compared
to
2000.
Table
II-‐22
Age
Distribution
Year
0–17
%
18–65
%
65+
%
Total
2000
6,905
29
13,616
57
3,173
13
23,694
2010
8,208
22
21,443
57
7,816
21
37,467
Source:
2000
and
2010
Census
Race
and
Ethnicity
Table
II-‐23
highlights
the
ethnic
distribution
of
the
population
for
1990,
2000
and
2010.
In
2000
slightly
over
one-‐third
of
the
City’s
total
population
was
minorities,
comparable
to
less
than
a
third
in
2010
and
1990,
and
just
over
one-‐fifth
in
1980.
Hispanic
residents,
7,486
people,
are
approximately
86
percent
of
the
minority
population
in
La
Quinta.
Most
significantly,
the
number
of
Hispanic
residents
in
La
Quinta
tripled
from
1980
to
1990,
and
then
doubled
again
from
1990
to
2000.
La
Quinta
is
becoming
a
more
ethnically
diverse
community.
HOUSING
II-‐243
Table
II-‐23
1980–2000
Ethnic
Background
of
Population
Ethnic
Group
1990
2000
%
Change
1990–
2000
2010
%
Change
2000–
2010
%
Change
1990–
2010
#
%
#
%
#
%
Caucasian
7,804
69.6
14,944
62.9
-‐6.7
23,642
63.1
0.2
-‐6.5
Hispanic
2,944
26.3
7,486
32.0
+5.7
11,353
30.3
-‐1.7
+4.0
African
American
180
1.6
226
1.4
-‐0.2
599
1.6
+.2
0
Native
American
117
1.0
37
0.1
-‐0.9
112
0.3
+.2
-‐0.7
Asian/Pacific
Islander
170
1.5
535
2.3
+.8
1,087
2.9
+0.6
+1.4
Other
N/A
1.1
426
1.8
0.7
674
1.8
0
+.7
Total
11,215
100.0
23,654
100.0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
37,467
100.0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐
Source:
1990,
2000,
and
2010
Census;
Coachella
Valley
Association
of
Governments
Note:
Population
numbers
may
seem
distorted
because
the
US
Census
does
not
consider
Hispanic
ancestry
to
be
a
race.
For
this
reason,
some
Hispanics
choose
to
list
themselves
under
other
races.
1%
change
presented
in
terms
of
proportional
representation
in
the
population,
not
of
numerical
increase
Employment
The
economy
of
the
Coachella
Valley
was
traditionally
agriculture-‐
driven,
but
agriculture
is
steadily
being
replaced
by
tourism
and
residential
uses.
Although
employment
patterns
typically
induce
housing
demand,
the
regional
economy
of
the
Coachella
Valley
differs
from
most
parts
of
the
state.
Here,
employment
is
created
by
housing
demand,
manifested
in
the
construction
and
staffing
of
resorts
and
second
homes.
Tourist
and
resort
development
are
leading
indicators
to
predict
employment
and
housing
demand.
Although
a
tourist
economy
is
seasonal,
in
the
Coachella
Valley
it
is
generally
stable
and
does
not
suffer
the
severe
effects
of
recessions
as
do
other
regions
dependent
on
manufacturing
and
consumer
related
goods.
And
with
the
benefit
of
desert
weather,
the
resorts
in
the
La
Quinta
area
are
increasingly
operating
year
round.
There
is,
however,
some
seasonal
fluctuation
in
the
labor
market,
which
can
further
compound
the
problem
of
economic
stability
in
the
lower
income
sectors
of
the
labor
force,
affecting
their
ability
to
sustain
themselves
in
the
off
season
(summer)
months.
According
to
the
US
Census
Bureau
(2007-‐2011
American
Community
Survey),
in
2011
the
civilian
labor
force
comprised
17,382
persons,
of
whom
16,291
were
employed.
The
unemployment
rate
was
6.3
percent.
Table
II-‐6
shows
the
types
of
employment
by
industry
held
by
La
HOUSING
II-‐244
Quinta
residents
in
2011.
The
majority
of
jobs
held
by
La
Quinta
residents
were
in
service
industries,
followed
by
retail
trade,
finance/real
estate,
and
professional
industries.
Many
La
Quinta
residents
work
in
other
communities,
and
many
residents
from
other
cities
work
in
La
Quinta.
An
estimated
at
2,046
(approximately
19
percent
of
the
total
resident
work
force)
both
live
and
work
in
La
Quinta.
Most
employment
opportunities
in
and
around
the
City
are
related
to
the
provision
of
services.
Table
II-‐7
shows
the
major
employers
for
the
community
area,
defined
by
the
La
Quinta
Chamber
of
Commerce
as
including
La
Quinta,
Indian
Wells,
Palm
Desert,
and
Indio.
The
largest
employers
are
in
the
nonmanufacturing
economy
and
are
directly
related
to
the
provision
of
services,
including
public
service,
big
box
retail,
and
recreational
and
resort
activities.
In
2008
the
City
surveyed
its
major
commercial
and
hospitality
facilities
to
identify
major
employers
in
the
city
limits.
The
largest
employers
surveyed
were
Desert
Sands
Unified
School
District,
La
Quinta
Resort
and
Club,
Wal-‐Mart,
Costco,
and
PGA
West
Golf
Resort.
Table
II-‐24
Employment
by
Industry
Industry
Employed
Persons
%
of
Employed
Persons
Agriculture,
Forestry
and
Fisheries,
Mining
117
0.7
Arts,
Recreation,
Accommodation
and
Food
Service
3,035
18.6
Construction
1,422
8.7
Manufacturing
773
4.8
Transportation/Warehousing/Utilities
528
3.3
Wholesale
Trade
292
1.8
Retail
Trade
2,228
13.7
Finance/Real
Estate
1,100
6.7
Professional
and
Administrative
1,818
11.2
Health,
Educational,
Information,
Social
and
Other
Services
4,422
27.1
Public
Administration
556
3.4
Total
Civilian
Employed
16,291
100.0
Source:
2007-‐2011
ACS
5-‐year
estimates
HOUSING
II-‐245
Table
II-‐25
Major
Employers
La
Quinta
Community
Area
Name
of
Employer
Employed
Persons
Description
Desert
Sands
Unified
School
District
1,000
Public
school
system
La
Quinta
Resort
&
Club
1,200
Resort
hotel
Wal-‐Mart
Super
Center
365
Retail
Rancho
La
Quinta
150
Residential
Golf
Club
Costco
230
Retail
PGA
West
235
Residential
Golf
Club
Hideaway
122
Residential
Golf
Club
Home
Depot
240
Home
improvement
Imperial
Irrigation
District
200
Utility
company
Lowe’s
Home
Improvement
145
Home
improvement
Stater
Bros.
150
Supermarket
Best
Buy
100
Retail
Target
200
Retail
Tradition
Golf
Club
101
Residential
Golf
Club
The
Quarry
91
Residential
Golf
Club
Thane
Marketing
International
90
Infomercial
company
Ralphs
88
Supermarket
Source:
2008
Employer
Survey,
City
of
La
Quinta;
City
of
La
Quinta
Certified
Audited
Financial
Report
2012.
General
Income
Characteristics
The
median
household
income
of
La
Quinta
in
2010
was
$67,444
higher
than
the
Riverside
County
median
household
income
of
$58,365.
Since
2000,
the
median
income
for
La
Quinta
residents
has
increased,
with
the
2004
median
family
income
reported
as
$54,300
for
the
County
of
Riverside
and
$62,500
for
the
City
of
La
Quinta.
Household
income
estimates
(2010)
by
total
households
are
found
in
Table
II-‐26.
Although
the
census
classifications
for
income
are
not
the
same
as
the
household
income
categories
used
by
the
State
of
California
in
housing
affordability
analyses,
general
comparisons
can
be
made.
Five
household
income
categories
are
used
by
the
State
of
California
for
housing
affordability
analysis
based
on
the
area
median
income
(AMI):
extremely
low
(30
percent
or
less
of
the
area
median
income)
very
low
(31
to
50
percent
of
the
AMI),
low
(51
to
80
percent
of
the
AMI),
moderate
(81
to
120
percent
of
the
AMI),
and
above
moderate
(more
than
120
percent
of
the
AMI).
Table
II-‐27
identifies
the
actual
income
limits
for
the
five
income
categories
and
median
income
based
on
the
HUD
2012
median
income
of
$63,300
for
a
family
of
four
in
Riverside
County.
HOUSING
II-‐246
Table
II-‐28
estimates
the
distribution
of
extremely
low,
very
low,
low,
moderate,
and
above
moderate
incomes
in
the
City
of
La
Quinta
based
on
the
2011
American
Community
Survey.
The
above
moderate
income
households
constitute
the
largest
grouping,
accounting
for
51.1
percent
of
all
households.
20.7
percent
of
the
households
in
the
City
are
moderate
income
households,
with
12.2
percent
classified
as
Low,
7.7
percent
as
very
low,
and
the
remaining
8.3
percent
as
extremely
low
income
households.
Table
II-‐26
2011
Household
Income
Estimates
Income
Category
Households
%
of
Households
$0
-‐
14,999
1,020
7.2%
$15,000
-‐
34,999
1,791
12.7%
$35,000
-‐
49,999
1,481
10.5%
$50,000
-‐
74,999
2,553
18.1%
$75,000
-‐
99,999
2,073
14.7%
$100,000
+
5,205
36.9%
Total
14,123
100.0%
Median
Income
$77,790
Source:
U.S.
Census
Bureau,
2007-‐2011
American
Community
Survey
Table
II-‐27
Income
Limits
by
Household
Size,
2012
Household
Size
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Extremely
Low
Income
$14,100
$16,100
$18,100
$20,100
$21,750
$23,350
$24,950
$26,550
Very
Low
Income
$23,450
$26,800
$30,150
$33,500
$36,200
$38,900
$41,550
$44,250
Low
Income
$37,550
$42,900
$48,250
$53,600
$57,900
$62,200
$66,500
$70,800
Moderate
Income
$53,150
$60,750
$68,350
$75,950
$82,050
$88,100
$94,200
$100,250
Median
Income
$44,330
$50,650
$56,950
$63,300
$68,350
$73,450
$78,500
$83,550
Source:
HCD
2012
HOUSING
II-‐247
Table
II-‐28
Households
by
Income
Category,
2010
Income
for
Family
of
4
Number
of
Households
Percentage
of
Total
Extremely
Low
1,334
8.3
Very
Low
1,237
7.7
Low
1,952
12.2
Moderate
3,311
20.7
Above
Moderate
8,184
51.1
Total
16,018
100.0
Source:
2005-‐2009
ACS
5-‐year
data;
US
Census,
SCAG
The
2010
Census
reports
that
2,885
persons,
7.7
percent
of
the
total
population
in
the
City,
were
below
the
poverty
threshold.
Approximately
16
percent
of
La
Quinta
households
earn
50
percent
or
less
of
the
AMI.
This
is
10
percent
less
than
in
2000,
and
indicates
a
significant
improvement
in
incomes
for
lower
income
households.
HOUSING
PROFILE
This
section
provides
an
overview
of
La
Quinta’s
existing
housing
stock.
Since
the
establishment
of
the
La
Quinta
Hotel
in
1926,
La
Quinta
has
been
considered
to
be
a
world
class
resort
and
has
been
a
favored
location
for
vacation
and
retirement
homes.
Generally,
single-‐family
residences
were
constructed
on
an
individual
basis
from
the
1950s
until
the
La
Quinta
Country
Club
area
was
developed
in
the
1960s.
In
1975
a
brief
building
boom
began
due
to
speculation.
Recessions
in
the
1980s
and
early
1990s
resulted
in
an
oversupply
of
housing
and
little
construction
in
the
City.
Since
these
recessions,
a
rebound
occurred
beginning
in
the
late
1990s.
As
a
result
the
City
has
seen
a
rapid
increase
in
residential
development
of
all
types,
but
predominantly
single-‐family
units.
There
are
many
projects
clustered
around
recreation
amenities.
In
many
of
these
communities
second
units
and
guest
houses
(typically
used
to
house
guests,
extended
family
members,
and
service
workers)
are
processed
concurrently
with
the
primary
unit.
While
new
single-‐family
detached
and
attached
homes
are
entitled
and
waiting
to
be
built,
the
bust
of
subprime
lending
practices
in
the
mid
2000s
has
resulted
in
a
steep
decline
in
home
values,
rapid
increase
in
foreclosures,
and
a
decrease
in
the
number
of
households
eligible
to
enter
the
ownership
housing
market.
Several
projects
under
HOUSING
II-‐248
construction
in
2007
and
2008
have
been
on
hold
indefinitely,
but
there
has
been
recent
interest
in
revising
these
projects
to
reflect
the
new
characteristics
of
the
emerging
recovery
of
the
area’s
housing
market..
Housing
Characteristics
Between
2000
and
2010,
the
number
of
housing
units
in
the
City
increased
by
11,677
units
from
11,812
to
23,489
units.
This
change
represents
a
98.9
percent
increase
(see
Table
II-‐29).
There
are
three
basic
types
of
housing
units
for
which
data
is
presented
in
Table
II-‐30:
single
family
units,
which
include
both
detached
and
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
multifamily
units
in
the
City
more
than
doubled
from
2000
to
2010,
although
multifamily
units
represent
10
percent
of
the
total
housing
stock.
The
rate
of
development
activity
in
the
City
has
varied
over
the
years,
as
shown
in
Table
II-‐31.
The
numbers
in
Table
II-‐31
are
based
upon
the
number
of
building
permits
issued,
as
compared
to
units
built
to
date.
Therefore,
the
number
of
units
reported
is
greater
than
that
as
reported
by
DOF
for
a
similar
time
period.
The
annual
growth
rate
for
development
activity
hit
a
high
of
24.7
percent
in
1988
but
dropped
dramatically
in
subsequent
years,
to
a
low
of
3.7
percent
in
1991.
While
growth
rates
began
to
improve
during
the
1990s
to
around
5
to
9
percent,
growth
in
housing
production
peaked
in
the
mid-‐2000s,
and
began
to
drop
significantly
in
2007.
Table
II-‐29
Total
Housing
Stock
2000
to
2010
2000
2010
Change
2000–2010
%
#
California
13,312,456
13,680,081
+2.8
+367,625
Riverside
County
584,674
800,707
+36.9
+216,033
La
Quinta
11,812
23,489
+98.9
+11,677
Source:
2000
&
2010
Census;
DOF
HOUSING
II-‐249
Table
II-‐30
Total
Dwelling
Units
by
Type
of
Structure
2000
to
2012
Building
Type
2000
2012
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:
2000
Census
data
and
2012
DOF
1In
2006
a
mobile
home
park
was
converted
to
the
Vista
Dunes
affordable
housing
project.
The
residents
of
the
92
mobile
homes
were
compensated
and
relocated.
HOUSING
II-‐250
Table
II-‐31
Historic
Record
of
Housing
Development
Year
Single-‐
Family
Detached
Single-‐
Family
Attached
Multi-‐
family
Mobile
Homes
Demo
Annual
Total
Sum
Total
Annual
growth
(%)
Pre-‐
1983
1,415
374
168
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
N/A
1,957
N/A
1983
20
227
10
226
-‐-‐-‐-‐
483
2,440
24.7
1984
82
202
2
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
286
2,726
11.7
1985
74
307
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
381
3,107
14.0
1986
158
237
3
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
398
3,505
9.7
1987
143
123
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
266
3,771
5.9
1988
467
712
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
1,179
4,950
24.7
1989
587
142
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
–6
723
5,673
12.2
1990
707
371
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
–4
1,074
6,747
16.1
1991
282
4
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
286
7,033
3.7
1992
283
32
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
315
7,348
3.9
1993
312
12
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
324
7,672
3.9
1994
474
24
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
498
8,170
5.7
1995
380
28
91
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
499
8,669
5.4
1996
462
24
116
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
602
9,271
6.2
1997
466
28
1
-‐-‐-‐-‐
–1
494
9,765
4.8
1998
870
34
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
–2
902
10,667
8.4
1999
1,171
20
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
–4
1,187
11,854
10.2
2000
1,274
58
200
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
1,532
13,386
11.9
2001
898
4
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
–11
891
14,277
6.2
2002
570
87
117
-‐-‐-‐-‐
–13
761
15,038
5.0
2003
1,030
78
280
-‐-‐-‐-‐
–10
1,378
16,416
9.2
2004
1,293
111
14
-‐-‐-‐-‐
–21
1,397
17,813
8.5
2005
1,242
206
151
-‐-‐-‐-‐
–12
1,587
19,400
8.9
2006
719
148
327
-‐92
–61
1,096
20,496
5.7
2007
448
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐21
–3
424
20,920
2.1
2008
230
6
218
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐3
451
21,371
2.2
2009
103
6
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐4
105
21,476
0.5
2010
73
6
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
79
21,555
0.4
2011
34
4
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐2
36
21,591
0.2
2012
49
0
176
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐1
224
21,815
1.0
To
6/1/13
52
0
0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
-‐-‐-‐-‐
52
21,867
0.2
Source:
City
of
La
Quinta
Historic
Record
of
Housing
Development,
2012;
City
of
La
Quinta
Monthly
Building
Permit
Logs,
2006-‐2013
1
In
2006
a
mobile
home
park
was
converted
to
an
affordable
housing
project;
the
mobile
homes
are
not
included
in
the
demolished
category.
The
residents
of
the
92
mobile
homes
were
compensated
and
relocated.
A
significant
factor
affecting
the
number
of
available
units
throughout
most
communities
in
the
Coachella
Valley
is
the
fact
that
many
housing
units
are
held
off
the
market
for
use
either
as
short
term
vacation
rentals
or
as
second
homes.
Statistics
available
from
DOF
as
of
January
1,
2013,
indicate
that
the
vacancy
rate
in
La
Quinta
is
36.9
percent,
reflecting
the
seasonal
resort
character
of
the
City.
The
2010
Census
HOUSING
II-‐251
estimated
that
74.4
of
vacant
housing
units
in
the
City
are
for
seasonal
or
occasional
use.
On
that
basis,
the
City’s
actual
net
vacancy
rate
is
9.5%.
Household
Characteristics
Before
current
housing
problems
can
be
understood
and
future
needs
anticipated,
housing
occupancy
characteristics
need
to
be
identified
in
the
City.
The
following
is
an
analysis
of
household
size,
household
growth,
tenure,
and
vacancy
trends.
By
definition,
a
“household”
consists
of
all
the
people
occupying
a
dwelling
unit,
whether
or
not
they
are
related.
A
single
person
living
in
an
apartment
is
a
household,
just
as
a
couple
with
two
children
living
in
the
same
dwelling
unit
is
considered
a
household.
Households
and
Household
Size
Between
2000
and
2010,
La
Quinta
households
grew
at
a
rate
more
than
twice
that
of
Riverside
County,
as
shown
in
Table
II-‐32.
It
is
important
to
note,
however,
that
the
vast
majority
of
this
growth
occurred
prior
to
2008,
and
that
growth
ceased
almost
completely.
The
total
number
of
households
in
the
City
in
2010
was
14,820,
which
represents
a
net
increase
of
6,375
households
since
2000.
Table
II-‐33
shows
the
number
of
households
in
La
Quinta
by
household
size.
Household
size
is
important,
as
the
City
uses
the
average
household
size
to
plan
for
most
public
improvements
and
services
and
to
project
population.
The
2010
Census
estimates
the
number
of
persons
per
household
at
2.52,
and
January
1,
2013,
DOF
estimates
show
a
slight
increase,
at
2.57
persons
per
household.
Table
II-‐32
Total
Households,
2000
and
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:
2000
and
2010
Census
HOUSING
II-‐252
Table
II-‐33
Household
Size,
2000
and
2010
Household
Size
2000
2010
Number
Percent
Number
Percent
1
Person
1,426
16.9
3,164
21.3
2
Person
3,304
39.1
6,471
43.7
3–4
Person
2,556
30.2
3,669
24.8
5+
Person
1,169
13.8
1,516
10.2
Total
Households
8,455
14,820
Average
Household
Size
2.79
2.52
Source:
2000
&
2010
Census
Note:
Total
number
of
households
and
average
household
size
obtained
from
DOF
and
distribution
extrapolated
based
on
2000
Census
figures.
Housing
Tenure
The
number
of
owner
occupied
housing
units
in
the
City
has
not
fluctuated
much
during
the
last
decade.
In
2000,
La
Quinta
owners
occupied
81.5
percent
of
total
units
in
the
City,
compared
to
75.2
percent
in
2010.
As
shown
in
Table
II-‐15,
the
number
of
owner
occupied
units
decreased
from
81.5
percent
in
2000
to
75.2
percent
(11,152
units)
in
2010.
The
increase
in
the
proportion
of
renter
occupied
housing
units
in
La
Quinta
from
18.5
percent
(1,566
units)
in
2000
to
24.8
percent
in
2010
reflects
the
various
factors
associated
with
the
recent
economic
downturn:
job
loss,
sub-‐prime
lending
practices,
Vacancy
The
vacancy
rate
is
a
measure
of
the
general
availability
of
housing.
It
also
indicates
how
well
the
types
of
units
available
meet
the
current
housing
market
demand.
A
low
vacancy
rate
suggests
that
households
may
have
difficulty
finding
housing
within
their
price
range;
a
high
vacancy
rate
may
indicate
either
the
existence
of
a
high
number
of
units
undesirable
for
occupancy
or
a
simple
oversupply
of
housing
units.
Statistics
available
from
DOF
as
of
January
1,
2013,
indicate
that
the
vacancy
rate
in
La
Quinta
is
36.9
percent,
reflecting
the
seasonal
resort
character
of
the
City.
The
2010
Census
estimated
that
74.4
of
vacant
housing
units
in
the
City
are
for
seasonal
or
occasional
use.
On
that
basis,
the
City’s
actual
net
vacancy
rate
is
9.5%.
HOUSING
II-‐253
Of
the
8,669
vacant
units
in
2010,
736
were
available
for
rent,
783
were
available
for
sale,
and
141
had
been
rented
or
sold
and
were
awaiting
occupancy.
The
remaining
6,448
units
were
counted
as
seasonal
or
second
homes.
Table
II-‐34
Housing
Tenure
and
Vacancy
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
-‐-‐
Other
Vacant
561
-‐-‐
Source:
2010
Census
Age
and
Condition
of
Housing
Housing
age
is
a
factor
for
determining
the
need
for
rehabilitation.
Without
proper
maintenance,
housing
units
deteriorate
over
time.
Also,
older
houses
may
not
be
built
to
current
housing
standards
for
fire
and
earthquake
safety.
Approximately
72
percent
of
the
housing
stock
in
the
City
of
La
Quinta
has
been
built
since
1990,
and
about
42
percent
of
the
current
stock
has
been
constructed
since
2000
(see
Table
II-‐35).
Less
than
4
percent
was
constructed
prior
to
1970.
The
oldest
homes
in
the
City
are
found
in
the
Cove
neighborhood.
Of
the
older
single
family
homes,
many
are
well
maintained
and
are
mostly
occupied
by
long
term
residents.
A
small
proportion
of
older
homes
have
not
been
well-‐maintained.
These
homes
are
typically
HOUSING
II-‐254
smaller
than
new
homes
in
the
City;
some
less
than
1,000
square
feet.
As
land
values
increase,
it
will
become
economically
viable
to
replace
or
rehabilitate
some
of
these
structures.
These
homes
are
primarily
in
the
Cove
area
and
behind
City
Hall.
Outside
of
the
Cove
area,
the
homes
are
generally
newer.
Many
new
units
in
these
other
areas
are
custom
homes
in
gated
communities
and
are
maintained
by
their
owners
in
accordance
with
the
requirements
of
a
home
owners
association.
Table
II-‐35
Age
of
Housing
Stock
in
La
Quinta
Year
Built
Total
Percentage
2005-‐2011
2,161
9.8
2000-‐2004
7,176
32.5
1990–1999
6,448
29.2
1980–1989
3,658
16.6
1970–1979
1,867
8.4
1960–1969
427
1.9
1950–1959
159
0.7
1940–1949
84
0.4
Before
1939
102
0.5
Total
Stock
2
22,082
100.0
Source:
2007-‐2011
5-‐year
ACS
Census
data
Housing
is
considered
substandard
when
conditions
are
found
to
be
below
the
minimum
standards
of
living
defined
by
Section
1001
of
the
Uniform
Housing
Code.
Households
living
in
substandard
conditions
are
considered
as
being
in
need
of
housing
assistance
even
if
they
are
not
seeking
alternative
housing
arrangements.
The
majority
of
the
substandard
units
and
the
units
needing
replacement
are
in
the
Cove
area.
Many
of
the
housing
units
in
the
Cove
area
are
more
than
30
years
old.
After
30
years
homes
generally
require
major
rehabilitation,
such
as
a
new
roof
or
updated
plumbing.
Housing
Conditions
Survey
Methodology
A
citywide
survey
of
the
housing
stock
was
conducted
in
November
2007
to
make
observations
of
housing
conditions.
Some
older
areas
of
the
City
that
are
known
to
have
particular
housing
problems
include
the
Cove,
Desert
Club
tracts,
Cameo
Palms,
and
Westward
Ho
neighborhoods.
HOUSING
II-‐255
The
survey
addressed
five
housing
characteristics:
v Structural,
such
as
walls,
beams,
supports,
and
columns.
v Doors
and
windows,
including
soffits,
overhangs,
and
entries.
v Paint
and
cosmetics,
looking
for
fading,
cracking,
or
chipping
of
paint,
stucco,
plant-‐ons,
and
trim
or
fascia.
v Roofing,
looking
for
missing
or
broken
tiles
or
shingles,
sagging
or
bowing,
or
eave
damage.
v Streetscape,
including
landscape,
graffiti,
and
refuse.
The
survey
measured
each
characteristic
for
each
home
based
on
a
four-‐point
scale:
minor
deterioration
(one
point),
moderate
deterioration
(two
points),
substantial
deterioration
(three
points),
and
dilapidated
conditions
(four
points).
The
values
assigned
for
the
five
characteristics
were
summed
for
each
home
and
divided
to
create
an
average
score.
Homes
receiving
an
average
score
of
less
than
1.0
were
classified
as
units
that
have
simply
deferred
maintenance.
When
a
home
averaged
a
score
of
1.0–1.5,
the
home
was
identified
as
in
need
of
minor
rehabilitation.
If
the
average
score
reached
1.6–2.5,
the
home
was
identified
as
in
need
or
moderate
rehabilitation.
Finally,
any
home
that
received
an
average
score
of
2.6
or
higher
was
identified
as
in
need
of
substantial
rehabilitation.
Housing
Conditions
Survey
Results
The
majority
of
units
surveyed
were
found
to
be
in
good
condition,
with
little
or
no
observation
of
deferred
maintenance
or
need
for
repairs.
The
survey
showed
that
approximately
1,470
units
in
the
City
(approximately
7
percent
of
the
housing
stock)
exhibited
the
need
for
maintenance
activities
or
structural
repair.
HOUSING
II-‐256
Deferred
Maintenance
Almost
all
of
the
units
identified
in
the
survey,
1,408
units,
were
assigned
an
overall
score
of
less
than
1.0
and
are
classified
as
deferred
maintenance.
The
buildings
under
this
classification
do
not
display
major
structural
deficiencies,
but
include
characteristics
that
do
require
attention.
In
general,
these
units
exhibited
only
minor
deterioration
for
a
couple
of
characteristics.
For
example,
some
painting
or
minor
repairs
to
the
fascia,
trim,
windows,
garage,
and
front
doors
may
be
needed.
The
surface
material
or
rock/pebble
protective
covering
of
the
roof
may
need
attention.
Most
frequently
cited
are
cases
where
the
aggregate/pebbles
have
been
stripped
or
worn
off,
and
the
black
asphalt/tarred
sheet
rock
underlayment
is
exposed.
Units
displaying
warped
garage
doors
that
do
not
close
all
the
way,
peeling
paint
on
wood
siding,
and
unpainted
or
major
discoloration
of
patches
of
stucco
are
also
included
in
this
classification.
Units
in
the
deferred
maintenance
category
may
also
reflect
the
need
for
fence
repair
or
paint;
the
complete
lack
of
landscaping,
where
the
yard
consists
of
dirt,
weeds,
dead
plants,
or
rusting
metal
of
unknown
sources;
and
neglect
of
portions
of
the
yard
or
exterior
structures
(such
as
shade
overhangs,
porticos
or
fences).
Other
circumstances
that
contribute
toward
the
deferred
maintenance
ranking
include
the
use
of
the
front/side
yards
for
unstructured/unorganized/
unshielded
storage
of
vehicles,
old
tools,
old
machinery,
propane
tanks,
broken
doors,
windows,
furniture,
and
other
types
of
clutter;
and
the
storage
of
campers
or
camper
shells
in
the
front
yard
rather
than
the
driveway.
In
some
cases
these
camper
units
appeared
to
be
occupied.
These
characteristics
do
not,
for
the
most
part,
compromise
the
structural
integrity
of
the
housing
unit.
However,
they
can
lead
to
more
serious
physical
deterioration
and
contribute
to
an
overall
atmosphere
of
neighborhood
neglect
and
disrepair
(“blight”).
In
some
cases,
units
exhibit
several
substandard
physical
conditions
concurrently,
(such
as
need
for
window
repair,
stucco
patching,
and
replacement
of
garage
doors),
but
don’t
exhibit
yard
maintenance
deferral.
These
units
are
technically
indistinguishable
from
those
units
in
the
minor
rehabilitation
category.
If
a
unit
in
the
deferred
maintenance
category
reveals
the
existence
of
three
or
more
physical
conditions,
it
is
worth
considering
for
minor
rehabilitation.
Other
HOUSING
II-‐257
characteristics
not
specifically
ranked
may
also
warrant
minor
rehabilitation.
Minor
Rehabilitation
There
were
36
units
that
received
an
average
score
of
1.0–1.5
and
were
classified
as
minor
rehabilitation.
A
total
of
30
of
these
units
were
in
the
Cove
area.
This
classification
reflects
the
presence
of
three
or
more
deferred
maintenance
items
and/or
the
inclusion
of
one
non-‐structural
major
deficiency.
Most
combinations
of
conditions
showing
need
for
minor
rehabilitation
included
deferred
yard/fence
maintenance
and
paint
or
stucco
repair.
A
unit
exhibiting
characteristics
warranting
a
minor
rehabilitation
classification
may
not
necessarily
reflect
the
existence
of
a
major
deficiency.
The
majority
of
units
in
the
minor
rehabilitation
category
reflect
the
presence
of
numerous
deferred
maintenance
conditions.
These
conditions
may
begin
to
physically
deteriorate
the
unit,
yet
do
not
materially
endanger
the
occupation
of
the
unit,
and
are
economically
feasible
to
correct.
Moderate
Rehabilitation
Of
the
23
units
classified
as
in
need
of
moderate
rehabilitation,
20
are
in
the
Cove
area.
Receiving
average
scores
of
1.6–2.5,
these
units
distinguish
themselves
from
those
in
need
of
minor
rehabilitation
by
exhibiting
conditions
that
may
materially
endanger
the
health,
safety,
or
wellbeing
of
the
occupant.
These
units,
however,
may
be
economically
feasible
to
repair.
Based
upon
survey
observations,
the
structures
in
this
Moderate
Rehabilitation
category
are
clearly
in
a
deficient
state.
For
the
most
part,
four
to
five
deferred
maintenance
deficiencies,
more
than
one
major
deficiency,
or
a
primary
structural
element
needing
major
repair,
were
observed
for
units
in
the
moderate
rehabilitation
category.
The
most
prevalent
characteristics
observed
in
single-‐family
units
of
this
category
were
need
for
major
roof
repair,
window
replacement,
or
some
slight
structural
or
concrete
repair.
These
characteristics
are
compounded
by
deferred
maintenance
items
such
as
trim
or
garage
doors
lacking
paint,
deferred
upkeep
of
landscaping
and
fencing,
and
roofs
in
need
of
patching.
Many
homeowners
may
not
be
aware
of
rehabilitation
programs
that
can
help
them
bring
their
home
up
to
code.
The
City
will
list
these
resources
on
its
website
and
may
be
able
to
provide
financial
HOUSING
II-‐258
assistance
for
home
rehabilitation.
The
County
of
Riverside
also
offers
a
home
repair
program.
Substantial
Rehabilitation
or
Replacement
The
four
housing
units
classified
as
substantial
rehabilitation
are
units
that,
in
their
present
state,
materially
endanger
the
health,
safety
and/or
wellbeing
of
occupants
in
at
least
one
respect.
These
units
received
an
average
score
of
2.6
or
greater
and
may
not
be
economically
feasible
to
repair.
These
units
exhibit
characteristics
such
as
need
for
complete
replacement
of
the
roof
structure,
walls
that
will
require
reconstruction/replacement,
major
stucco
and
painting
needs,
partial
foundation
deterioration,
and
dilapidated
yard/grounds
and
fences.
In
addition
to
structural
deficiency,
the
lack
of
certain
infrastructure
and
utilities
often
serves
as
an
indicator
of
substandard
conditions.
According
to
the
2000
Census,
there
were
19
ownership
units
that
lacked
complete
plumbing
facilities
and
34
units
in
the
City
that
lacked
complete
kitchen
facilities.
Additionally,
there
were
15
units
reliant
on
wood
as
the
heating
source,
and
67
units
with
no
source
of
heating.
The
City
initiated
a
Residential
Rehabilitation
Assistance
Program
in
1997
and
rehabilitated
a
total
of
13
homes
between
1997
and
2004.
The
program
was
discontinued
in
2004
due
to
a
lack
of
interest
from
property
owners
and
contractors.
From
2010
through
2012,
the
Code
Compliance
Division
has
acted
on
185
violations
relating
to
the
Building
Code.
While
Code
Compliance
statistics
do
not
differentiate
violation
statistics
into
categories,
most
Building
Code
violations
would
include
conditions
which
threatened
public
health
and
safety,
such
as
roofing
failure,
major
wall
repair,
foundation
repair,
and
similar
conditions.
All
the
violations
were
corrected.
Rooms
per
Unit
Table
II-‐36
shows
the
number
of
bedrooms
per
unit,
ranging
from
no
bedroom
(studios)
to
five
or
more
bedrooms.
Table
II-‐36
also
highlights
the
number
of
bedrooms
per
unit,
in
relationship
to
the
total
number
of
units
for
both
2000
and
2011.
The
single
largest
increase
proportionally
was
in
three-‐bedroom
units,
which
increased
8
percent
from
2000
to
2011.
HOUSING
II-‐259
Table
II-‐36
Bedrooms
Per
Unit,
2000–2011
Bedrooms
Per
Unit
2000
%
of
Total
2011
%
of
Total
%
Change
1
Studio
(no
bedroom)
159
1.3
248
1.1
-‐0.2
1
375
3.2
1,296
5.5
2.3
2
2,101
17.9
4,510
19.1
1.2
3
7,013
60.0
12,251
52.0
-‐8.0
4
2,044
17.4
4,595
19.5
2.1
5+
71
0.6
657
2.8
2.2
Total
11,763
100.4
23,557
100.0
-‐-‐-‐-‐
Source:
2000
Census
,
2007-‐2011
American
Community
Survey.
1
This
category
represents
percent
change
in
proportional
terms.
Table
II-‐37
identifies
the
number
of
bedrooms
in
a
dwelling
unit
by
tenure.
Three-‐bedroom
units
constituted
the
majority
of
housing
stock
(approximately
59
and
44
percent,
respectively)
for
both
owner
and
rental
units.
In
ownership
units,
those
with
two,
three,
or
four
bedrooms
made
up
96
percent
of
units,
while
the
same
bedroom
mix
made
up
only
83
percent
or
rental
units.
As
would
be
expected,
rental
units
contained
a
much
higher
proportion
of
one-‐bedroom
units,
providing
housing
for
those
who
are
young,
mobile
or
do
not
earn
enough
to
enter
homeownership.
HOUSING
II-‐260
Table
II-‐37
Bedrooms
in
Dwelling
Unit
by
Tenure,
2010
Tenure
Number
Percentage
Owner
Occupied
10,238
100
Studio
(no
bedroom)
18
1
1
bedroom
84
1
2
bedrooms
1,100
11
3
bedrooms
6,066
59
4
bedrooms
2,638
26
5
or
more
bedrooms
332
3
Renter
Occupied
3,643
100
Studio
(no
bedroom)
28
1
1
bedroom
602
17
2
bedrooms
1,110
30
3
bedrooms
1,589
44
4
bedrooms
314
9
5
or
more
bedrooms
0
0
Total
13,881
100
Studio
(no
bedroom)
46
1
1
bedroom
686
5
2
bedrooms
2,200
16
3
bedrooms
7,655
55
4
bedrooms
2,952
21
5
or
more
bedrooms
332
2
Source:
U.S.
Census
Bureau,
2008-‐2010
American
Community
Survey.
Housing
Costs
and
Rents
This
section
discusses
resale
pricing
for
existing
housing,
the
pricing
for
new
single
family
housing,
and
the
average
rental
prices
in
the
City.
La
Quinta’s
for-‐sale
and
rental
properties
range
from
multimillion
dollar
estates
to
very
low
income
subsidized
units.
Resale
Homes
The
average
price
for
a
resale
home
in
the
City
varies,
depending
upon
the
type
and
location
of
the
unit.
As
shown
in
Table
II-‐38,
approximately
49
percent
of
single-‐family
detached
homes
and
40
percent
of
condominiums
were
listed
under
$300,000.
Available
condominiums
have
a
wide
price
range
depending
on
location,
bedroom
count,
and
amenities
associated
with
the
subdivision.
The
median
home
sales
price
for
an
existing
home
in
the
2nd
quarter
of
2012
was
$330,000,
an
increase
of
9.2%
over
the
previous
year,
but
a
15%
drop
from
the
same
period
in
2010,
when
the
median
sales
price
stood
at
$384,000.
HOUSING
II-‐261
Table
II-‐38
Sample
Resale
Prices
of
Single-‐Family
Homes
and
Condominiums
Price
Range
Single-‐family
Homes
Condominiums
Number
Percent
Number
Percent
$750,000–
$3,500,000
75
13%
0
0%
$500,000–
$749,999
83
14.5
13
10.6
$400,000–
$499,999
45
8%
15
12.2%
$350,000–
$399,999
30
5%
29
23.6%
$300,000–
$349,999
63
11%
17
13.8%
$250,000–
$299,999
90
15.7%
17
13.8%
$200,000–
$249,999
70
12.2%
19
15.4%
$150,000–
$199,999
79
13.8%
7
5.7%
$125,000–
$149,999
19
3.3%
5
4.1%
$75,000–
$124,999
17
3.0%
1
0.8%
$0–$74,999
3
0.5%
0
0%
Total
574
100%
123
100%
Source:
:
www.Trulia.com,
April
2013
(1/1/13
–
4/20/13)
New
Homes
The
construction
of
new
homes
in
the
City
has
been
severely
curtailed
by
the
recession.
The
median
price
for
a
new
home
in
the
2nd
quarter
of
2012
was
$475,000,
a
3%
decrease
from
the
previous
year,
and
1%
less
than
in
2010.
The
new
housing
market
in
La
Quinta
has
yet
to
recover.
A
number
of
projects
that
are
approved
but
not
yet
constructed
have
been
stopped.
The
owners
of
undeveloped
or
unfinished
residential
projects
may
decide
to
sell
the
land
or
hold
the
land
and
restart
construction
during
the
next
upswing
in
the
housing
market.
Some
new
properties
have
been
auctioned
off
and
others
are
being
sold
back
to
financial
institutions.
Overall
the
housing
market
in
La
Quinta
is
more
affordable
than
in
previous
years.
During
the
2006-‐2013
planning
period,
the
City
built
affordable
for-‐sale
units
in
addition
to
affordable
rental
projects.
Watercolors,
a
149-‐unit
HOUSING
II-‐262
project
that
opened
in
2007,
includes
two-‐
and
three-‐bedroom
units
affordable
to
moderate
income
households
(ages
55
and
over).
Rental
Units
Table
II-‐22
provides
a
listing
of
advertised
rents
for
a
selection
of
apartment
properties.
These
market
rate
units
are
largely
affordable
to
moderate
income
households
of
any
size.
New
rental
projects
in
La
Quinta,
particularly
affordable
projects,
are
incorporating
more
aspects
of
sustainable
design
and
green
building.
The
Vista
Dunes
Courtyard
Homes
project,
constructed
in
2008,
which
provides
79
rental
units
affordable
to
very
low
income
households
and
one
unit
affordable
to
a
moderate
income
household.
Vista
Dunes
is
the
first
very
low
income
multifamily
project
of
its
size
in
the
country
to
achieve
LEED
Platinum
certification.
The
project
provides
a
swimming
pool,
playground,
basketball
court,
and
large
community
multipurpose
room.
Wolff
Waters
Place,
built
in
2009,
includes
218
green-‐built
apartments,
of
which
216
are
affordable
to
very
low
income
households
and
2
are
affordable
to
moderate
income
families.
Coral
Mountain
Apartments
is
designed
for
176
units,
of
which
36
are
proposed
to
be
affordable
to
very
low
income
households,
138
to
low
income
households,
and
2
units
will
be
affordable
to
moderate
income
households.
The
project
will
be
completed
in
2014,
early
in
the
planning
period.
Washington
Street
Apartments
consists
of
72
existing
one-‐bedroom
apartment
units
located
on
approximately
4.7
acres
of
land.
These
units
will
be
rehabilitated
by
the
City,
and
68
new
one-‐bedroom
units,
on
approximately
5
additional
acres,
will
be
added.
The
majority
of
apartment
rental
properties
are
offered
at
costs
comparable
to
the
average
rental
costs
for
the
Coachella
Valley
as
a
whole.
The
affordability
of
rental
housing
in
La
Quinta
is
not
directly
tied
to
the
density
of
the
project;
rather,
prices
range
based
on
condition,
on-‐site
amenities,
location,
and
unit
size.
HOUSING
II-‐263
Table
II-‐39
Representative
Apartment
Market
Rental
Rates
Project
Name
Unit
Size
Market
Rental
Rate
Villagio
at
La
Quinta
1
&
2
Bdrm
$1,129-‐1,285
Mediterra
1
&
2
Bdrm
$999-‐1,390
Villa
Cortina
1,
2,
3
&
4
Bdrm
$666-‐842
Aventine
1
&
2
Bdrm
$1,045-‐1,245
Vista
Dunes
1,
2
&
3
Bdrm
$277-‐711
HOUSING
NEEDS
The
following
analysis
of
current
City
housing
conditions
presents
housing
needs
and
concerns
relative
to
various
segments
of
the
population.
Several
factors
will
influence
the
degree
of
demand
or
need
for
new
housing
in
La
Quinta
in
coming
years.
The
four
major
“needs”
categories
considered
in
this
element
are:
Overpayment:
renters
and
homeowners
who
must
pay
more
than
30
percent
of
their
gross
incomes
for
shelter.
Overcrowding:
In
response
to
higher
housing
prices,
lower
income
households
must
often
be
satisfied
with
smaller,
less
adequate
housing
for
available
money.
Special
Needs:
Special
needs
are
those
associated
with
relatively
unusual
occupation
or
demographic
groups
that
call
for
very
specific
program
responses,
such
as
preservation
of
residential
hotels
or
the
development
of
four-‐bedroom
apartments.
State
law
specifically
requires
analysis
of
the
special
housing
needs
of
the
elderly,
the
disabled,
single-‐parent
households,
large
families,
farm
workers,
and
homeless
persons.
Future
Housing
Needs:
To
meet
future
needs
of
local
and
regional
population
and
employment
growth,
SCAG
developed
the
Regional
Housing
Needs
Assessment
(RHNA),
which
establishes
both
the
projected
need
for
non-‐market-‐rate
housing
and
the
“fair
share”
distribution
of
the
projected
need
to
each
jurisdiction
in
each
market
area.
HOUSING
II-‐264
Overpayment
and
Housing
Affordability
State
housing
policy
recognizes
that
cooperative
participation
of
the
private
and
public
sectors
is
necessary
to
expand
housing
opportunities
to
all
economic
segments
of
the
community.
Historically,
the
private
sector
generally
responds
to
the
majority
of
the
community’s
housing
needs
through
the
production
of
market-‐rate
housing.
However,
the
percentage
of
the
population
on
a
statewide
basis
who
can
afford
market-‐rate
housing
is
declining.
The
State
of
California
and
HUD
determined
that
affordable
housing
should
consume
no
more
than
30
percent
of
household
gross
income
for
lower
and
moderate
income
households.
A
household
spending
greater
than
30
percent
of
their
gross
income
on
housing
is
considered
to
be
overpaying.
Table
II-‐40
lists
the
percentage
of
renters
and
homeowners
who
overpay
for
housing,
based
on
2005-‐2009
CHAS
data.
Approximately
19
percent
of
all
households
in
La
Quinta
spent
more
than
30
percent
of
their
income
on
housing
costs.
More
than
33
percent
of
renter
households
(1,245)
experienced
overpayment,
while
only
14
percent
of
owner
households
(1,690)
overpaid
for
housing.
For
extremely
low
income
households,
11.0
percent
of
renters
and
3.7
percent
of
homeowners
overpaid
for
housing.
For
very
low
income
households,
13.6
percent
of
renters
and
16.7
percent
of
homeowners
overpaid
for
housing.
For
low
income
households,
14.8
percent
of
renters
and
26.2
percent
of
homeowners
overpaid.
Furthermore,
many
of
these
households
were
actually
paying
more
than
50
percent
of
their
gross
household
income
for
housing.
HOUSING
II-‐265
Table
II-‐40
Overpayment
by
Income
Category
and
Tenure
Tenure
Household
Income1
Cost
Burden2
Number
of
House-‐
holds
Percent
of
Overpay3
Percent
of
Total4
Owner
Occupied
Extremely
Low
Income
30%-‐50%
25
0.9%
0.2%
Extremely
Low
Income
Greater
than
50%
405
13.8%
3.5%
Very
Low
Income
30%-‐50%
90
3.1%
0.8%
Very
Low
Income
Greater
than
50%
400
13.6%
3.4%
Low
Income
30%-‐50%
370
12.6%
3.2%
Low
Income
Greater
than
50%
400
13.6%
3.4%
Total
Owner
Occupied
Overpaying
1,690
57.6%
14.4%
Renter
Occupied
Extremely
Low
Income
30%-‐50%
175
6.0%
4.7%
Extremely
Low
Income
Greater
than
50%
235
8.0%
6.3%
Very
Low
Income
30%-‐50%
100
3.4%
2.7%
Very
Low
Income
Greater
than
50%
300
10.2%
8.0%
Low
Income
30%-‐50%
205
7.0%
5.5%
Low
Income
Greater
than
50%
230
7.8%
6.2%
Total
Renter
Occupied
Overpaying
1,245
42.4%
33.3%
Total
households
overpaying
for
housing:
2,935
100.0%
19.0%
Source:
2005-‐2009
CHAS
Total
Owner
Occupied
=
11,705
Total
Renter
Occupied
=
3,735
1
Note:
HUD
and
CA
HCD
use
different
terminology/methodology
to
define
Household
Income,
but
they
are
roughly
equivalent.
The
table
above
uses
HCD’s
terminology
(“extremely
low,
very
low,
low”)
since
that’s
what
we
use
in
HE
documents.
2
Percent
of
monthly
income
spent
on
housing
costs,
including
utilities
3
Percent
of
households
that
overpaid.
4
Percent
of
total
households
per
tenure.
A
distinction
between
renter
and
owner
housing
overpayment
is
important
because,
while
homeowners
may
overextend
themselves
financially
to
afford
a
home
purchase,
the
owner
maintains
the
option
of
selling
the
home
and
may
realize
tax
benefits
or
appreciation
in
value.
Renters,
on
the
other
hand,
are
limited
to
the
trends
of
the
rental
market.
HOUSING
II-‐266
These
overpayment
estimates
reflect
the
need
for
affordable
housing
in
the
City,
particularly
for
lower
income
households.
It
also
reflects
the
need
for
homes
affordable
to
Low
and
Very
Low
income
households
to
be
available
in
the
City
for
purchase.
Overpayment
among
the
Moderate
and
High
income
categories
is
a
reflection
of
current
economic
conditions,
and
the
mortgage
crisis
still
under
way.
In
addition,
some
owner
households
choose
to
allocate
a
higher
percentage
of
their
disposable
monthly
income
on
housing
costs
because
this
allocation
is
justified
in
light
of
investment
qualities
of
ownership.
Table
II-‐41
identifies
the
affordable
rents
and
purchase
price
by
income
category
for
a
one-‐person
household,
a
two-‐person
household,
and
a
family
of
four.
Affordable
rental
rates
are
based
on
30
percent
of
gross
income,
and
affordable
ownership
costs
are
determined
using
a
maximum
allowance
of
35
percent
of
gross
income.
To
measure
affordability
in
La
Quinta,
affordable
housing
expenditures
should
be
compared
with
actual
rental
and
purchase
prices
in
the
City.
HOUSING
II-‐267
Table
II-‐41
Affordable
Housing
Costs
by
Annual
Income
Type
Annual
Income
(2013)
1
Maximum
Affordable
Rent
Payment
2
Maximum
Affordable
Purchase
Price
3
Single-‐Person
Household
Extremely
Low
$14,100
$326
$47,250
Very
Low
$23,450
$543
$85,050
Low
$37,550
$869
$141,750
Moderate
$54,600
$1,365
$217,350
Above
Moderate
$54,600+
Above
$1,303
Above
$217,350
Median
$45,500
$1,085
$179,550
Two-‐Person
Household
Extremely
Low
$16,100
$403
$50,850
Very
Low
$26,800
$670
$91.530
Low
$42,900
$1,073
$152,550
Moderate
$62,400
$1,560
$233,910
Above
Moderate
$62,400+
Above
$1,560
Above
$233,910
Median
$52,000
$1,300
$193,230
Four-‐Person
Household
Extremely
Low
$20,100
$503
$74,800
Very
Low
$33,500
$838
$132,000
Low
$53,600
$1,340
$215,600
Moderate
$78,000
$1,950
$328,900
Above
Moderate
$78,000+
Above
$1,950
Above
$328,900
Median
$65,000
$1,625
$272,800
1
Income
limits
established
by
HCD,
2013.
2
Based
on
30
percent
of
income.
3
Based
on
35
percent
of
income,
10%
down,
4%
interest,
and
1.25%
taxes
and
homeowner’s
insurance
monthly.
Affordability
of
Homeownership
Since
2006
the
City
and
Valley
have
experienced
a
wide
range
of
pricing
options
due
to
foreclosures
and
decreases
in
home
values.
While
there
are
still
multimillion
dollar
homes
for
sale,
there
are
also
new
and
fairly
new
homes
for
sale
at
prices
that
are
affordable
to
the
median
and
moderate
income
household.
Even
with
the
downturn
in
the
housing
market,
some
single-‐family
dwellings
would
be
unaffordable
to
lower
income
households.
The
median
sale
price
range
of
$330,000
to
$475,000,
puts
single-‐family
homes
out
of
reach
for
most
of
the
low
and
all
of
the
very
low
income
households
in
the
City.
Affordability
of
Rental
Costs
Low
and
moderate
income
households
can
afford
to
spend
$869
to
$1,950
per
month
on
rent
and
utilities.
As
shown
in
Table
II-‐41,
the
HOUSING
II-‐268
average
rent
for
many
of
the
listed
apartments
range
from
$600
to
$1,250—well
within
the
affordable
range
for
these
households.
Hundreds
of
lower
and
moderate
income
households
are
served
by
existing
projects.
Newly
constructed
income-‐restricted
rental
projects
provide
218
units
of
new
rental
housing
for
very
low
and
low
income
households.
With
the
market-‐rate
rental
market
essentially
closed
for
extremely
low
and
very
low
income
households,
however,
it
is
evident
that
their
major
source
of
affordable
housing
will
continue
to
be
found
through
income-‐restricted
housing
projects,
housing
voucher
programs,
second
units,
and
employee/guest
houses.
Overcrowding
The
Bureau
of
the
Census
defines
overcrowded
housing
units
as
“those
in
excess
of
one
person
per
room
average.”
Overcrowding
may
occur
when
a
family
or
household
cannot
afford
adequate
living
space,
has
to
house
extended
family
members,
or
is
sharing
inadequate
living
space
with
nonfamily
members.
When
more
than
one
family
shares
a
housing
unit
it
is
called
doubling.
Households
with
lower
incomes
may
permit
overcrowding
to
derive
additional
income,
or
there
may
be
insufficient
supply
of
housing
units
in
the
community
to
accommodate
the
demand.
Table
II-‐42
shows
that
2.4
percent
of
the
total
occupied
housing
units
were
moderately
overcrowded
from
2009-‐2011,
a
decrease
from
3.6
percent
in
2000.
A
slightly
higher
incidence
of
overcrowding
was
experienced
among
the
rental
tenure
group.
This
is
supported
by
the
finding
that
the
number
of
persons
per
unit
in
renter-‐occupied
housing
units
was
slightly
higher
than
owner
occupied,
with
2.82
persons
per
unit
as
compared
to
2.44
for
owner-‐occupied
households8.
Although
renter
households
constituted
only
27.1
percent
of
all
households
in
the
City,
approximately
6.0
percent
of
renters
experienced
overcrowded
conditions,
with
1.8
percent
of
all
renters
experiencing
severe
overcrowding.
In
comparison,
within
owner-‐occupied
households,
which
constitute
72.9
percent
of
all
households
in
the
City,
1.1
percent
experienced
overcrowded
conditions,
with
0.2
percent
experiencing
severe
overcrowding.
These
numbers
have
reduced
by
almost
one
half
for
renter
occupied,
and
more
than
three-‐fourths
for
owner
occupied
since
the
2000
Census.
8
U.S.
Census
Bureau,
2009-‐2011
American
Community
Survey.
HOUSING
II-‐269
16.4
percent
of
renter
households
(654
households)
had
five
or
more
persons,
as
compared
to
approximately
6.2
percent
of
owners.
Large
households
often
require
homes
with
at
least
three
bedrooms.
According
to
the
ACS,
there
were
3,418
housing
units
in
the
City
with
four
or
more
bedrooms.
Of
these,
10.7
percent,
or
365
units
were
renter
occupied.
Table
II-‐42
Overcrowding
Status
Owner
Renter
Total
Households
Number
%
of
Owners
Number
%
of
Renters
Number
%
of
Total
Not
Overcrowded
10,103
98.7
3,313
90.9
13,416
96.7
Moderately
Overcrowded
97
1.0
237
6.5
334
2.4
Severely
Overcrowded
38
0.3
93
2.6
131
0.9
Total
10,238
100.0
3,643
100.0
13,881
100.0
Source:
U.S.
Census
Bureau,
2008-‐2010
American
Community
Survey.
Note:
Universe
is
total
households
in
occupied
housing
units.
Housing
units
that
exceed
1.0
or
more
persons
per
room
are
considered
moderately
overcrowded.
Housing
units
that
exceed
1.5
or
more
persons
per
room
are
considered
severely
overcrowded.
Special
Needs
The
state
requires
that
the
special
needs
of
certain
disadvantaged
groups
be
addressed
in
the
Housing
Element.
Selected
populations
with
special
housing
needs
include
the
elderly,
handicapped,
large
families,
single-‐parent
households,
the
homeless,
and
farm
workers.
Elderly
Persons
The
special
housing
needs
of
the
elderly
are
an
important
concern
for
the
City
of
La
Quinta,
since
many
retired
persons
residing
in
the
City
are
likely
to
be
on
fixed
low
incomes.
Besides
affordability
concerns,
the
elderly
often
maintain
special
needs
related
to
housing
design
and
location.
With
regard
to
housing
design
needs,
the
elderly
may
require
ramps,
handrails,
lower
cupboards
and
counters,
etc.,
to
allow
greater
access
and
mobility.
They
also
may
need
special
security
devices
for
their
homes
to
allow
greater
self-‐protection.
The
elderly
also
have
special
needs
regarding
location.
They
typically
need
to
have
access
to
public
facilities
(i.e.,
medical
and
shopping)
and
transit.
In
most
instances,
the
elderly
prefer
to
stay
in
their
own
dwellings
rather
than
relocate
to
a
retirement
community,
and
may
need
assistance
to
make
home
HOUSING
II-‐270
repairs.
Every
effort
should
be
made
to
maintain
their
dignity,
self-‐
respect,
and
quality
of
life.
According
to
ACS,
7,734
City
residents,
or
21
percent
of
the
total
population,
were
65
years
of
age
or
older
as
compared
to
13.4
percent
in
2000.
Based
on
2009-‐2011
income
levels,
approximately
7.2
percent
of
the
senior
households
have
been
determined
to
fall
below
the
poverty
level.
According
to
ACS,
there
were
1,971
senior-‐headed
owner
occupied
households
overpaying
for
housing.
There
were
278
senior-‐headed
rental
households
overpaying.
Apart
from
privately
owned
housing
units,
the
City
has
several
options
for
senior
living.
Among
these
are:
The
Seasons
development,
which
offers
91
senior
units
in
the
very
low
and
low
affordable
price
range;
Miraflores,
a
project
completed
in
2003
that
supplies
118
senior
units
in
the
low
and
moderate
income
price
range;
and
Hadley
Villas
Senior
Apartments,
an
affordable
project
completed
in
2004
that
offers
81
units
in
the
very
low
income
price
range.
Continued
construction
of
multifamily
units
will
aid
greatly
in
meeting
the
needs
of
seniors
currently
overpaying
for
rental
units.
Table
II-‐43
City
of
La
Quinta
Householders
65
Years
and
Over,
by
Tenure
Owner-‐
Occupied
Housing
Units
Renter-‐
Occupied
Housing
Units
Total
Occupied
Housing
Units
Total,
City
of
La
Quinta
10,734
3,992
14,726
Total,
Householders
65
Years
&
Over
4,019
911
4,930
Source:
2009-‐2011
American
Community
Survey,
3-‐Year
Estimates
Disabled
Persons
Physical
and
developmental
disabilities
can
hinder
access
to
housing
units
of
traditional
design,
and
potentially
limit
the
ability
to
earn
adequate
income.
The
three
major
housing
needs
of
the
disabled
are
access,
location,
and
affordability.
Disabled
persons
often
require
specially
designed
dwellings
to
provide
access
not
only
within
the
dwelling,
but
to
and
from
the
unit.
Special
modifications
to
permit
free
access
are
very
important
in
maintaining
independence
and
dignity.
The
California
Administrative
Code
Title
24
Requirements
set
forth
access
and
adaptability
requirements
for
the
HOUSING
II-‐271
physically
handicapped.
These
regulations
apply
to
public
buildings
such
as
motels,
and
require
that
ramps,
larger
door
widths,
restroom
modifications,
etc.,
be
designed
to
enable
free
access
to
the
handicapped.
Such
standards
are
not
mandatory
of
new
single-‐family
residential
construction.
A
number
of
disabled
persons
receive
supplemental
Social
Security
Income
and
are
on
fixed
incomes.
Increasing
inflation
and
housing
costs
adversely
affect
these
individuals’
ability
to
secure
affordable
housing.
The
2009-‐2011
ACS
identified
4,143
persons
in
the
City
with
disabilities,
of
which
1,753
(42.3%)
were
persons
over
the
age
of
65.
The
table
below
identifies
the
number
of
disabilities,
by
type,
for
La
Quinta
residents.
Table
II-‐44
City
of
La
Quinta
Number
of
Disabilities,
by
Disability
Type1
Number
of
Disabilities
Percent
of
Total
Disabilities
Disabilities,
ages
0-‐64
Hearing
Difficulty
567
7.4%
Vision
Difficulty
210
2.8%
Cognitive
Difficulty
954
12.5%
Ambulatory
Difficulty
1,308
17.1%
Self-‐Care
Difficulty
517
6.8%
Independent
Living
Difficulty
1,032
13.5%
Total,
ages
0-‐64
4,588
60.0%
Disabilities,
ages
65+
Hearing
Difficulty
841
11.0%
Vision
Difficulty
257
3.4%
Cognitive
Difficulty
329
4.3%
Ambulatory
Difficulty
908
11.9%
Self-‐Care
Difficulty
239
3.1%
Independent
Living
Difficulty
482
6.3%
Total,
ages
65+
3,056
40.0%
TOTAL
DISABILITIES,
all
age
groups:
7,644
100%
1
Represents
the
number
of
disabilities,
not
the
number
of
individuals.
One
individual
may
have
one
or
more
disabilities.
Source:
S1810,
“Disability
Characteristics,”
City
of
La
Quinta,
2009 -‐2011
American
Community
Survey
3-‐Year
Estimates.
Disabilities
may
impair
employment
opportunities,
resulting
in
limited
or
fixed
incomes.
According
to
ACS,
844
disabled
individuals
in
the
HOUSING
II-‐272
labor
force
have
incomes
below
the
poverty
level.
These
households
may
face
significant
challenges
to
affording
adequate
housing,
transportation,
and
health
care.
Persons
with
Developmental
Disabilities
Per
Senate
Bill
No.
812,
the
Housing
Element
must
include
analysis
of
the
special
housing
needs
of
individuals
with
developmental
disabilities.
A
developmental
disability
is
defined
by
Section
4512
of
the
Welfare
and
Institutions
Code
as
“a
disability
that
originates
before
an
individual
becomes
18
years
old,
continues
or
can
be
expected
to
continue
indefinitely,
and
constitutes
a
substantial
disability
for
that
individual.”
This
includes
mental
retardation,
cerebral
palsy,
epilepsy,
and
autism,
as
well
as
disabling
conditions
found
to
be
closely
related
to
mental
retardation
or
to
require
treatment
similar
to
that
required
for
individuals
with
mental
retardation,
but
does
not
include
other
handicapping
conditions
that
are
solely
physical
in
nature.
The
California
Department
of
Developmental
Services
(DDS)
implements
a
statewide
system
of
community-‐based
services
for
people
with
developmental
disabilities
and
their
families.
DDS
contracts
with
the
Inland
Regional
Center
in
Riverside
to
provide
and
coordinate
local
services
in
Riverside
County,
including
the
City
of
La
Quinta.
The
table
below
quantifies
the
developmentally
disabled
population
in
La
Quinta
that
is
being
served
by
the
Inland
Regional
Center.
Table
II-‐45
City
of
La
Quinta
Developmentally
Disabled
Population
Served
by
Inland
Regional
Center
Age
Group
#
of
Individuals
0-‐2
8
3-‐15
39
16-‐22
30
23-‐56
26
57+
4
Total:
107
Includes
individuals
in
zip
codes
92253.
Source:
Inland
Regional
Center,
November
19,
2012.
Housing
needs
for
individuals
with
developmentally
disabilities
can
range
from
traditional
independent
living
environments,
to
supervised
group
quarters,
to
institutions
where
medical
care
and
other
services
are
provided
onsite.
Important
housing
considerations
for
this
group
HOUSING
II-‐273
include
proximity
to
public
transportation,
accessibility
of
the
home
and
surroundings,
access
to
medical
and
other
public
services,
and
affordability.
Facilities
and
services
in
the
Coachella
Valley
that
assist
persons
with
developmental
and
physical
disabilities
include:
o La
Quinta
Senior
Center
–
La
Quinta:
Services
include
Meals
on
Wheels,
an
outreach
program
and
volunteer
home
care
services
for
homebound
seniors,
and
coordination
of
Dial-‐a-‐Ride
transportation
services.
o Angel
View
Crippled
Children’s
Foundation,
based
in
Desert
Hot
Springs,
operates
19
six-‐bed
group
homes
for
children
and
young
adults
with
developmental
and
physical
disabilities.
The
homes
provide
24-‐hour
nursing
and/or
attendant
care
and
can
accommodate
100+
individuals
at
a
time.
There
are
17
homes
in
the
Coachella
Valley,
including
12
in
Desert
Hot
Springs,
4
in
Palm
Springs,
and
1
in
Thousand
Palms.
o The
Inland
Regional
Center
oversees
the
management
of
8
single-‐family
residential
facilities
in
the
Coachella
Valley.
Each
facility
houses
4-‐6
individuals
and
provides
24/7
staff
supervision.
Residents
are
placed
by
Inland
Regional
Center
and
must
meet
State-‐mandated
qualifications.
o Canyon
Springs
in
Cathedral
City
is
a
State
developmental
center
operated
by
DDS.
It
provides
residential
services,
treatment,
and
job
training
for
up
to
63
adults
with
developmental
disabilities,
some
of
which
also
have
mental
health
needs.
Referrals
for
admission
are
made
by
the
Inland
Regional
Center.
In
November
2012,
it
served
55
individuals.
o Community
Counseling
and
Consultation
Center,
Inc./Desert
AIDS
Project
–
Palm
Springs:
Dedicated
to
providing
support,
care,
and
treatment
to
people
with
AIDS
and
related
illnesses
and
education
to
the
general
community.
The
Desert
AIDS
project
serves
the
psychological
needs
of
AIDS
clients,
provides
case
management,
anonymous
HIV
testing,
legal
services,
a
program
of
protection
and
prevention,
and
referral
and
recreational
services.
o Valley
Resource
Center
–
Indio:
A
nonprofit
organization
providing
services
to
developmentally
disabled
adults.
They
administer
supportive
employment
programs
and
other
workshops
to
assist
daily
living.
o Cathedral
City
–
HIV/AIDS
Facility:
A
25-‐bed
permanent
residence
facility
for
persons
with
HIV/AIDS.
HOUSING
II-‐274
o FISH
of
Lower
Coachella
Valley
–
Indio:
Provides
transportation
and
emergency
food,
and
operates
a
“good
neighbor”
program.
o DesertArc
–
Palm
Desert:
A
comprehensive
service
delivery
agency
for
the
developmentally
disabled
community;
it
provides
programs
to
develop
or
enhance
self-‐help
skills,
life
enrichment
skills,
and
prevocational
and
vocational
skills.
o Braille
Institute
–
Rancho
Mirage:
A
nonprofit
school
providing
daytime
classes
for
the
legally
blind,
with
a
50-‐mile
service
radius.
Provides
other
services
for
the
visually
impaired.
o Shelter
Plus
Care
Tenant
Based
Rental
Assistance
–
Indio:
A
permanent
residence
facility
in
Indio
with
17
beds,
serving
needs
of
homeless
persons
with
disabilities
and
the
mentally
ill.
Large
Family
Households
The
2009-‐2011
ACS
reported
1,319
households
in
the
City
of
La
Quinta
with
five
or
more
persons,
which
constitutes
9.0
percent
of
all
households.
This
represents
a
10
percent
increase
from
the
year
2000
(1,196
households).
Large-‐family
households
generally
require
larger
dwellings
with
more
bedrooms
to
meet
their
housing
needs.
But
these
households
often
experience
difficulty
securing
adequate
housing
suitable
for
their
expanded
needs
due
to
income
limitations
and/or
lack
of
adequate
housing
stock.
Difficulties
in
securing
housing
large
enough
to
accommodate
all
members
of
a
household
are
heightened
for
renters,
because
multifamily
rental
units
are
typically
smaller
than
single-‐family
units.
Table
II-‐46
presents
tenure
of
housing
units
by
number
of
persons
in
the
unit
in
based
on
2009-‐2011
ACS
data.
The
table
shows
that
large
households
are
equally
comprised
(50/50)
of
owner
occupied
and
renter
occupied
households
(665
owner
occupied,
654
renter
occupied).
Large
owner-‐occupied
units
comprise
6
percent
of
all
owner-‐occupied
housing,
and
large
renter-‐occupied
units
comprise
16
percent
of
all
renter-‐occupied
units.
This
increase
is
small
when
compared
to
the
56%
increase
in
total
population
in
the
City
for
the
same
period.
HOUSING
II-‐275
Table
II-‐46
Large
Households
by
Tenure
Number
of
Persons
in
Household
Owner
Occupied
Renter
Occupied
Total
Five
429
258
687
Six
182
266
448
Seven
or
More
54
130
184
Total
665
654
1,319
Source:
U.S.
Census.
2009-‐2011
American
Community
Survey.
Multifamily
housing
rental
stock
consists
primarily
of
one-‐,
two-‐and
three-‐bedroom
units.
Single
family
development
in
the
Cove
is
made
up
largely
of
units
with
three
bedrooms,
although
four-‐bedroom
units
are
also
present
in
limited
supply.
Citywide
single-‐family
construction
activity
has
created
a
supply
of
housing
for
large
families
not
available
in
multifamily
housing,
although
prices
for
larger
units
tend
to
be
affordable
only
to
moderate
and
above
moderate
income
households.
Single-‐Parent
Households
Single
parent
heads
of
household
constitute
a
group
with
serious
housing
concerns.
In
general,
families
with
single
parent
heads
of
household
may
experience
a
higher
incidence
of
poverty
than
other
household
configurations.
In
particular,
female-‐headed
households
can
experience
lower
incomes,
higher
living
expenses,
higher
poverty
rates,
and
low
rates
of
homeownership.
Finding
adequate
and
affordable
housing
is
a
high
priority.
Special
considerations
for
this
population
include
proximity
to
schools,
childcare,
employment,
and
health
care.
In
2010
La
Quinta
was
home
to
2,026
single-‐parent
households,
of
which
1,461
were
female-‐headed.
16.1
percent
of
the
City’s
female-‐
headed
families
lived
in
poverty,
compared
to
5
percent
of
married
couple
families.
Many
single
parents
do
not
have
the
resources
to
enter
the
housing
market
as
a
home
owner.
Although
the
incidence
of
single-‐parent
households
with
children
below
the
poverty
level
is
low
in
the
City,
less
than
2
percent
of
single-‐parent
households
are
impoverished,
addressing
the
housing
needs
for
single
parents
may
require
innovative
housing
solutions.
Strategies
need
to
be
considered
to
provide
more
housing
opportunities
to
these
households,
such
as
new
multifamily
housing,
mixed-‐use
units,
and
subsidized
single-‐family
housing.
HOUSING
II-‐276
Farm
Workers
Based
on
an
analysis
of
farm
labor
and
the
diminishing
amount
of
farmland
in
the
City
of
La
Quinta
and
surrounding
rural
areas,
the
need
for
farm
worker
housing
has
declined.
Based
on
2009-‐2011
ACS
data,
there
were
74
persons
employed
in
“agriculture,
forestry,
fishing
and
hunting,
and
mining”
in
the
City,
which
constitutes
less
than
1%
of
the
City’s
civilian
employed
population
16
years
and
over9.
It
is
probable
that
a
number
of
occupations
classified
as
agricultural
are
related
to
nursery
operations
or
landscape
maintenance.
Responsibility
for
providing
housing
for
farm
workers
originally
lay
with
the
growers
that
employed
the
workers.
This
practice
was
discontinued,
however,
due
to
high
costs
for
liability
insurance
and
maintenance.
Low
income
groups
often
need
housing
near
work.
For
farm
workers,
this
means
that
housing
is
needed
in
rural,
agricultural
areas
rather
than
urban
areas.
In
the
Coachella
Valley,
the
principal
housing
options
for
migrant
and
local
seasonal
farm
workers
are
family-‐owned
homes,
private
rental
houses,
second
units,
apartments,
and
mobile
homes.
Farm
worker
housing
does
not
appear
to
be
a
significant
need
in
La
Quinta.
Extremely
Low
Income
Households
Extremely
low
income
households
are
households
earning
less
than
30
percent
of
the
HUD
Area
Median
Family
Income
(HAMFI).
These
households
often
face
significant
financial
challenges
to
affording
adequate
housing
and
therefore
are
considered
a
subpopulation
with
special
housing
needs.
According
to
2005-‐2009
CHAS
data
there
are
1,100
extremely
low
income
households
in
La
Quinta,
consisting
of
485
renter
households
and
615
owner
households.
Accordingly,
the
City’s
projected
need
for
very
low
income
households
is
91
households
(25
percent
of
its
2006–
2014
RHNA
total
housing
allocation).
Extremely
low
income
households
are
sensitive
to
unexpected
changes
in
income
and
expenditures,
so
overpayment
for
housing
could
result
in
an
inability
to
meet
other
important
or
emergency
needs.
Many
of
the
City’s
existing
and
proposed
very
low
income
rental
projects
provide
housing
affordable
to
extremely
low
income
individuals,
couples,
and
families
with
children.
Extremely
low
income
9
U.S.
Census,
2009-‐2011
American
Community
Survey.
HOUSING
II-‐277
households
are
also
eligible
to
receive
rental
assistance
in
La
Quinta
through
the
County
of
Riverside
Housing
Authority’s
Section
8
voucher
program.
Small
extremely
low
income
households
may
also
find
an
affordable
housing
option
in
Single
Room
Occupancy
(SRO)
hotels,
second
units,
and
guest
houses.
A
survey
of
rental
opportunities
in
2008
showed
that
second
units
in
La
Quinta
are
affordable
to
lower
income
households.
Another
type
of
second
unit,
a
guest
house/employee
quarters
is
permitted
in
La
Quinta
and
is
to
be
rented
out
free-‐of-‐charge,
per
the
Municipal
Code.
The
intent
is
for
homeowners
to
provide
on-‐site
living
quarters
for
their
staff
and
guests.
This
type
of
second
unit
is
mandated
to
be
affordable
to
extremely
low
income
households.
Second
units
and
guest
houses/employee
quarters
may
be
important
resources
for
seniors
on
a
fixed-‐income,
single-‐parents,
disabled
persons,
college
students,
and
low-‐wage
earning
workers.
Homeless
Persons
The
Riverside
County
Department
of
Public
Social
Services
completed
a
homeless
count
in
2011
for
all
cities
and
some
unincorporated
areas
in
the
County.
That
effort
identified
3
homeless
persons
in
La
Quinta,
all
3
bring
“unsheltered”
individuals
(living
on
streets
or
in
vehicles,
encampments,
storage
structures,
or
other
places
unfit
for
human
habitation)
and
0
“sheltered”
individuals
(in
emergency
shelters
or
transitional
housing).10
This
estimate
represents
less
than
0.001%
of
the
City’s
total
2010
Census
population
of
37,467
people.
The
actual
number
of
homeless
may
be
higher
given
that
many
individuals,
particularly
women
and
children,
remain
hidden
for
safety
or
stay
in
locations
where
they
cannot
be
seen.
This
represents
an
increase
of
89%
over
the
County’s
2009
count
(38
individuals).
This
information
indicates
that
there
is
not
a
need
for
a
shelter
beds.
However,
homeless
persons
and
families
are
often
transient
and
may
find
themselves
in
need
of
shelter
in
any
given
jurisdiction
in
the
county.
If
a
person
or
family
finds
themselves
homeless
they
may
go
to
regional
facilities
provided
by
the
county,
City
of
Indio,
or
City
of
Palm
Springs
for
assistance.
The
available
homeless
facilities
in
the
Coachella
Valley
are
listed
in
Table
II-‐47.
While
the
City
has
supported
the
CVAG
Homeless
Committee
efforts,
the
City
did
not
participate
in
funding
Roy’s
Desert
Resource
Center
(“Roy’s”),
which
is
in
the
west
end
of
the
Coachella
Valley.
Instead,
in
October
2010,
the
City
committed
funding
toward
a
new
facility
for
the
10
Figure
3,
“Homeless
County
&
Survey
Comprehensive
Report,”
prepared
for
Riverside
County
Department
of
Public
Social
Services,
2011.
HOUSING
II-‐278
Coachella
Valley
Rescue
Mission,
which
currently
shelters
150+
men,
women
and
children
and
is
located
in
Indio.
The
City
Council
also
committed
funding
to
Martha’s
Village
and
Kitchen
toward
construction
of
their
new
facility.
The
City
believes
these
facilities
to
be
a
more
logical
resource
for
La
Quinta’s
homeless,
due
to
proximity
to
La
Quinta.
One
use
that
may
potentially
provide
housing
for
those
in
need
of
shelter
is
SRO
hotels.
SRO
hotels,
as
defined
in
the
municipal
code,
are
residential
facilities
that
are
rented
on
a
weekly
or
longer
basis
that
may
or
may
not
have
private
bathroom
and
kitchen
facilities.
SRO
hotels
are
conditionally
permitted
in
Regional
Commercial
zoned
districts.
HOUSING
II-‐279
Table
II-‐47
Coachella
Valley
Homeless
Shelter
Resources
2007
Shelter
Name
Type
of
Shelter
City
Clientele
or
Needs
Served
Number
of
Beds
1
Coachella
Valley
Services
and
Overnight
Shelter
(CV-‐
SOS)
Emergency
Coachella
Valley
General
25
Coachella
Valley
Rescue
Mission
Emergency
Indio
Men,
women,
and
children
80
Nightingale
Manor
Emergency
Palm
Springs
Families
50
Shelter
from
the
Storm
Emergency
Undisclosed
–
Coachella
Valley
Domestic
Violence
60
Martha’s
Village
and
Kitchen
Emer
&Trans
Indio
General
100
emer/120
trans
ABC
Recovery
Center
Transitional
Indio
Substance
Abuse
40
Desert
Horizon
Transitional
Palm
Springs
General
32
Episcopal
Community
Services
Transitional
Scattered
Site
–
Coachella
Valley
HIV/AIDS
34
Shelter
From
The
Storm
Transitional
Undisclosed
–
Coachella
Valley
Domestic
Violence
Victims
39
Roy’s
Desert
Resource
Center
Permanent
Palm
Springs
General
90
Desert
Vista
Permanent
Supportive
Housing
Permanent
Undisclosed
–
Coachella
Valley
Disabled
Men
and
Women
40
Casa
San
Miguel
Permanent
Cathedral
City
HIV/AIDS
25
Episcopal
Community
Services
Permanent
Scattered
Site
–
Coachella
Valley
Persons
With
Disabilities
and
Chronically
Homeless
40
Shelter
Plus
Care
TBRA
Permanent
Indio
Persons
With
Disabilities/
Mentally
Ill
23
Source:
Desert
SOS
HOUSING
II-‐280
Regional
Housing
Needs
State
Housing
Law
requires
that
SCAG
identify
future
housing
needs
in
each
jurisdiction.
To
meet
this
mandate,
SCAG
develops
the
RHNA,
which
establishes
both
the
projected
need
for
housing
and
the
fair
share
distribution
of
the
projected
need
to
its
member
jurisdictions.
The
RHNA
calculates
the
projected
new
construction
need
necessary
to
accommodate
the
anticipated
population
through
October
2021.
State
housing
law
requires
that
cities
and
counties
demonstrate
adequate
residential
sites
that
could
accommodate
development
of
housing
in
order
to
satisfy
future
housing
need.
The
2014
RHNA
proposes
that
La
Quinta
construct
364
new
housing
units
to
accommodate
housing
needs
for
all
income
groups
during
the
planning
period
January
2014
through
October
2021.
These
units
are
distributed
by
income
category
as
illustrated
in
Table
II-‐48.
According
to
SCAG,
91
new
units
are
needed
to
accommodate
very
low
income
households,
61
new
units
to
accommodate
low
income
households,
and
66
new
units
to
meet
the
needs
of
moderate
income
households.
Approximately
40
percent
of
the
new
units
(146)
cited
by
the
RHNA
to
accommodate
growth
will
be
for
above
moderate
income
households,
provided
through
market-‐rate
housing.
The
City’s
364-‐unit
future
housing
need
is
a
1.5
percent
increase
in
the
number
of
existing
households
(23,489
in
2010),
and
approximately
2.3
percent
of
the
Coachella
Valley’s
future
housing
need.
Table
II-‐48
2014–2021
Regional
Housing
Needs
Assessment
Household
Income
Levels
Income
as
a
Percent
of
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:
Regional
Housing
Needs
Assessment
for
Southern
California,
September
2012,
prepared
by
SCAG.
1
Total
number
of
units
and
percentage
are
affected
by
rounding
error.
HOUSING
II-‐281
HOUSING
CONSTRAINTS
Constraints
to
the
provision
of
adequate
and
affordable
housing
are
posed
by
both
governmental
and
nongovernmental
factors.
These
factors
may
result
in
housing
that
is
not
affordable
to
lower
and
moderate
income
households
or
may
render
residential
construction
economically
infeasible.
Constraints
to
housing
production
significantly
impact
households
with
lower
incomes
and
special
housing
needs.
To
accurately
assess
the
housing
environment
in
the
City
of
La
Quinta,
close
consideration
needs
to
be
given
to
a
series
of
constraints;
the
housing
market,
infrastructure,
and
environmental
and
governmental
factors
that
impact
the
cost
of
housing.
Nongovernmental
Constraints
Although
housing
costs
in
the
Coachella
Valley
region
are,
on
average,
below
other
metropolitan
areas
in
Southern
California,
the
cost
of
renting
or
purchasing
adequate
housing
in
La
Quinta
continues
to
be
influenced
by
a
number
of
market
factors.
Costs
associated
with
labor,
raw
land,
materials,
and
financing
influence
the
availability
of
affordable
housing.
Land
and
Construction
Costs
Land
costs
include
the
costs
of
raw
land,
site
improvements,
and
all
costs
associated
with
obtaining
government
approvals.
Factors
affecting
the
costs
of
land
include
overall
availability
within
a
community,
environmental
site
conditions,
public
service
and
infrastructure
availability,
aesthetic
considerations,
and
parcel
size.
The
cost
of
land
is
an
important
component
in
determining
the
cost
of
housing
development.
Land
in
the
Coachella
Valley
has
been
and
remains
relatively
affordable
compared
to
other
Southern
California
markets.
In
2013
residential
land
acquisitions
show
that
vacant
residential
land
outside
of
the
Village
area
costs
between
$80,000
and
$125,000
per
acre.
Village
Commercial
land,
which
has
the
potential
for
up
to
16
dwelling
units
per
acre,
sells
for
up
to
$590,000
per
acre,
based
on
current
listings
and
sales
in
the
area.
Construction
costs
can
constitute
up
to
50
percent
of
the
cost
of
a
single-‐family
detached
home.
Labor
costs
are
usually
two
to
three
times
the
cost
of
materials,
and
thus
make
up
17
to
20
percent
of
the
total
cost
of
a
new
home.
Labor
costs
are
based
on
a
number
of
factors,
including
housing
demand,
the
number
of
contractors
in
the
area,
and
union
status
of
workers.
However,
state
law
requires
the
payment
of
prevailing
wages
for
most
private
projects
built
under
an
HOUSING
II-‐282
agreement
with
a
public
agency
providing
assistance
to
the
project,
except
for
certain
types
of
affordable
housing.
All
cities
are
affected
by
these
laws.
The
construction
cost
of
housing
may
be
considered
a
constraint
to
affordable
housing
in
the
La
Quinta
area.
The
City
cannot
directly
control
construction
costs.
Hence,
increases
in
these
costs
amplify
the
need
for
subsidies
to
achieve
affordability
in
residential
units.
Through
density
bonus
provisions
the
City
provides
incentives
and
relief
to
the
development
community
in
exchange
for
the
inclusion
of
affordable
housing
into
a
project.
Financing
Interest
rates
impact
both
the
purchase
price
of
the
unit
and
the
ability
to
purchase
a
home.
Interest
rates
are
determined
by
national
policies
and
economic
market
conditions
and
local
government
has
no
impact
on
these
rates.
Historical
market
trends
reveal
that
when
interest
rates
are
high,
a
potential
homeowner’s
ability
to
secure
a
loan
decreases.
Conversely,
when
rates
are
low,
homeownership
becomes
more
accessible
to
more
families.
The
La
Quinta
market
has
demonstrated
that
when
interest
rates
are
low,
the
majority
of
housing
demand
focuses
on
single-‐family
homes.
When
interest
rates
are
high
(in
excess
of
about
12
percent)
for
any
length
of
time,
only
a
small
percentage
of
new
home
buyers
can
qualify
for
monthly
mortgage
payments
on
the
average
market
rate
single-‐
family
home.
At
this
point,
demand
shifts
to
lower
price
units,
usually
multifamily,
and
construction
trends
follow.
First-‐time
home
buyers
are
the
group
most
impacted
by
financing
requirements.
The
currently
low
mortgage
rates
(at
or
below
4
percent),
facilitate
first
time
home
buying.
Typically,
conventional
home
loans
will
require
5
to
20
percent
of
the
sale
price
as
a
down
payment,
which
is
one
of
the
largest
constraints
to
first-‐time
home
buyers.
When
interest
rates
are
low,
they
are
not
generally
a
serious
constraint
to
affordable
housing.
Further,
lower
interest
rates
help
support
home
purchases
by
low
and
moderate
income
households,
who
may
not
be
able
to
qualify
at
higher
rates.
Governmental
Constraints
The
City
has
traditionally
exercised
authority
in
the
areas
of
land
use
controls,
site
improvement
requirements,
building
codes,
fees,
and
other
regulatory
programs.
HOUSING
II-‐283
General
Plan
Land
Use
Designations
The
2012
Land
Use
Element
provides
a
consolidation
of
several
land
use
designations
used
in
the
previous
2002
General
Plan.
Residential
land
use
designations,
which
were
previously
defined
in
in
five
categories,
have
been
reduced
to
two.
The
two
residential
designations
include
Low
Density
Residential
and
Medium/High
Density
Residential.
The
densities
of
individual
parcels
are
further
refined
in
the
Zoning
Ordinance.
Under
Program
LU-‐7.1.a
(Policy
LU-‐7.1),
the
City
has
established
a
mixed-‐use
overlay
that
allows
for
the
construction
of
housing
to
be
integrated
in
various
ways
such
as
above
office
space
or
commercial
uses.
The
overlay
is
applied
to
all
commercial
zones.
The
mixed
use
overlay
works
together
with
the
affordable
housing
overlay
to
raise
densities
to
24
units
per
acre
(not
including
density
bonus).
The
density
ranges
allowed
for
each
residential
district
used
to
calculate
housing
at
build
out
are
listed
in
Table
II-‐49.
Table
II-‐49
Residential
General
Plan
and
Zoning
Districts
General
Plan
Zoning
Density
Purpose
Low
Density
Very
Low
Density
Residential
(RVL)
Up
to
2
units
per
acre
One-‐to
two-‐story
single-‐family
detached
homes
on
large
lots;
at
the
southeastern
boundary
of
the
City.
Low
Density
Residential
(RL)
Up
to
4
units
per
acre
Single-‐family
attached
and
detached
development,
both
in
a
country
club
setting
and
in
standard
subdivisions.
Agriculture/
Equestrian
Residential
Overlay
(A/ER)
Applied
to
underlying
residential
designations
Allows
continuation
of
agricultural
activities
in
Vista
Santa
Rosa
area.
Medium
High
Density
Medium
Density
Residential
(RM)
Cove
Residential
(RC)
Up
to
8
units
per
acre
One-‐to
two-‐story
single-‐family
detached
and
attached
homes
on
medium
to
small
sized
lots;
clustered
small
dwellings,
such
as
one
to
two-‐story
single-‐family
condominiums,
townhomes,
or
apartment
and
duplexes.
HOUSING
II-‐284
Table
II-‐49
Residential
General
Plan
and
Zoning
Districts
General
Plan
Zoning
Density
Purpose
Medium
High
Density
Residential
(RMH)
Up
to
12
units
per
acre
One-‐to
two-‐story,
single-‐family
detached
homes
on
small
lots;
one-‐to
two-‐story
single-‐family
attached
homes;
one-‐and
two-‐
story
townhomes,
condominiums
and
multifamily
dwellings.
Mobile
home
parks
may
be
allowed
with
the
approval
of
a
Conditional
Use
Permit.
High
Density
Residential
(RH)
Up
to
24
units
per
acre
for
affordable
housing
sites
One-‐to
two-‐story
single-‐family
attached
homes;
one-‐to
three-‐
story
townhomes
and
multifamily
dwellings.
Duplex
and
multiplex
development
is
the
most
common.
Mobile
home
parks
or
subdivisions
with
common
area
amenities
and
open
space
may
also
be
allowed
subject
to
a
Conditional
Use
Permit.
General
Commercial
Regional
Commercial
(CR)
Commercial
Park
(CP)
Community
Commercial
(CC)
Neighborhood
Commercial
(CN)
Office
Commercial
(CO)
Up
to
24
units
per
acre
for
affordable
housing
High
density
residential
uses
are
permitted.
Village
Commercial
Village
Commercial
(VC)
Up
to
24
units
per
acre
for
affordable
housing
Medium
High
and
High
Density
residential
land
uses
are
appropriate.
Live/work
housing
is
permitted.
Tourist
Commercial
Tourist
Commercial
(CT)
Up
to
24
units
per
acre
for
affordable
housing
Single
and
multifamily
residential
and
condominium
development
is
permitted.
Source:
City
of
La
Quinta
General
Plan
and
Municipal
Code
2012
Municipal
Code
The
residential
zone
portions
of
the
Municipal
Code
impact
housing
affordability
in
several
ways.
The
Zoning
Code
regulates
such
features
as
building
height
and
density,
lot
area,
setbacks,
minimum
unit
and
room
size,
and
open
space
requirements
for
each
zoning
district.
HOUSING
II-‐285
Development
standards
for
the
six
residential
zoning
classifications
and
two
overlay
districts
are
provided
in
Table
II-‐50.
Residential
land
use
regulations
allow
for
single-‐family
detached
development
by
right
at
allowable
densities
between
0
and
12
units
per
acre.
Single-‐family
detached
housing
at
higher
densities
may
be
achieved
with
a
Specific
Plan
for
individual
projects
as
long
as
overall
density
is
not
exceeded.
Single-‐family
attached
and
multifamily
development
is
permitted
by
right
at
densities
between
8
and
24
units
per
acre
and
these
types
of
residential
uses
are
also
permitted
in
lower
density
zones
under
the
provisions
of
a
specific
plan.
A
variety
of
residential
development
is
possible
in
the
City,
ranging
in
average
density
from
less
than
two
units
per
acre
for
lands
designated
Low
Density
to
24
units
per
acre
for
affordable
housing
in
the
High
Density
and
all
Commercial
categories.
If
a
density
bonus
is
utilized,
greater
residential
densities
may
be
achieved
in
any
zone.
Table
II-‐51
identifies
the
list
of
permitted
uses
by
residential
district.
Lower
Density
Residential
Districts
The
RVL
and
RL
zones
provide
for
low
density
residential
uses
with
densities
consistent
with
the
General
Plan
LDR
designation
(up
to
four
units
per
acre).
Single-‐family
development
in
lower
density
zones
is
allowed
through
a
building
permit,
following
administrative
review
for
consistency
with
the
Municipal
Code
and
state
requirements.
Developments
requiring
a
tract
map
to
establish
new
lots
of
record
are
reviewed
by
various
City
departments
and
adopted
through
Planning
Commission
and
City
Council
public
hearings.
Typical
conditions
of
approval
relate
to
environmental
quality
such
as
erosion
control,
storm
drainage,
and
access.
Higher
density
uses
such
as
patio
homes,
duplexes,
attached
single-‐
family
dwellings,
townhomes,
and
condominiums
may
be
permitted
in
RVL
and
RL
zones
when
part
of
a
specific
plan,
as
long
as
the
overall
density
of
the
specific
plan
project
does
not
exceed
that
permitted
by
the
underlying
zone.
The
specific
plan
is
reviewed
by
various
City
departments
and
a
determination
is
made
by
the
City
Council
at
a
regularly
scheduled
public
hearing.
Specific
plans
are
typically
adopted
by
resolution
and
are
common
throughout
the
City.
The
Zoning
Ordinance
permits
guest
houses
without
a
Minor
Use
Permit.
Guest
houses
are
affordable
to
all
income
levels
because
they
are
provided
free-‐of-‐charge.
Another
form
of
accessory
housing,
HOUSING
II-‐286
second
units,
are
permitted
by
right
in
the
RVL
and
RL
zones.
Multiple
second
units
on
one
site
are
conditionally
permitted.
Development
in
the
Cove,
under
RC
zoning,
allows
for
development
and
preservation
of
the
character
of
the
Cove,
with
one
story
single-‐
family
detached
dwellings.
The
Zoning
Code
also
establishes
a
minimum
7,200-‐square-‐foot
lot
size,
which
may
require
lot
consolidation
in
some
circumstances.
However,
as
the
majority
of
the
Cove
was
originally
subdivided
into
5,000
square
foot
lots,
existing
lots
less
than
7,200
square
feet
are
considered
buildable
nonconforming
lots.
Medium
and
High
Density
Residential
Districts
The
RM,
RMH,
and
RH
zones
allow
an
upper
range
of
development
density
consistent
with
the
General
Plan
Medium/High
Density
Residential
designation.
Minimum
side
yards
and
setbacks
are
required
where
a
project
abuts
an
exterior
boundary
or
a
public
street.
However,
lot
coverage,
width,
and
setbacks
within
a
project
are
variable
to
allow
for
clustering
or
creative
lot
configurations,
as
well
as
creating
space
for
desired
recreational
and
open
space
amenities.
Multifamily
development
is
allowed
in
all
three
zones
with
a
Site
Development
Permit,
via
design
review
approved
at
regularly
scheduled
Planning
Commission
public
hearings.
The
City’s
Zoning
Code
allows
for
innovation
in
design
standards
and
densities
as
long
as
the
overall
density
and
dwelling
unit
capacity
is
not
exceeded.
Residential
compatibility
standards
have
been
incorporated
into
the
Zoning
Code,
which
governs
conditions
where
higher
or
lower
density
uses
are
proposed
than
the
General
Plan
designation.
Residential
Uses
in
Nonresidential
Districts
There
are
development
opportunities
for
residential
uses
in
several
of
La
Quinta’s
nonresidential
zones
(Table
II-‐52).
Single-‐family
residential
uses
are
permitted
under
a
specific
plan
in
the
Regional
Commercial
(CR)
zone.
Multifamily
housing
is
permitted
in
most
commercial
zones.
Residential
uses
at
densities
consistent
with
the
High
Density
residential
designations
are
permitted
in
the
Village
Commercial
District
subject
to
the
granting
of
a
Village
Use
Permit,
which
is
required
for
all
development
in
the
Village
area.
A
Village
Use
Permit
is
a
Site
Development
Permit
specific
to
the
Village
area,
and
allows
for
the
review
of
the
project
for
compliance
with
the
Village
at
La
Quinta
Design
Guidelines
in
addition
to
the
Zoning
Ordinance,
Municipal
Code,
and
state
requirements.
Village
Use
Permits
are
approved
at
regularly
scheduled
Planning
Commission
public
hearings,
just
like
a
Site
HOUSING
II-‐287
Development
Permit.
The
development
standards
in
the
Village
are
more
permissive
than
for
typical
single-‐
and
multifamily
housing
projects
and
are
not
considered
a
constraint
to
housing
development.
Projects
can
be
developed
in
the
Village
Commercial
District
that
are
100
percent
residential
in
use,
as
there
is
no
requirement
that
a
project
be
a
mix
of
residential
and
nonresidential
uses.
Development
standards
specific
to
the
Village
currently
include
a
35-‐foot
maximum
height.
Setbacks
along
front,
side,
and
rear
property
lines
are
not
required.
Additionally,
the
VC
zone
does
not
require
open
space
to
be
set
aside
for
each
residential
unit.
Residential
floors
generally
range
from
10–12
feet
in
height.
If
a
project
contains
solely
residential
uses,
the
35-‐foot
height
limit
does
not
constrain
development.
If
a
project
incorporates
commercial
and
residential
uses,
the
commercial
uses
will
be
located
on
the
first
floor
and
generally
seek
a
floor
height
of
15–18
feet.
Under
the
current
height
standard,
a
mixed-‐
use
project
could
construct
three
stories
of
development.
For
example,
if
a
project
consisted
of
two
levels
of
residential
development,
a
project
built
at
24
units
per
acre
would
only
need
18,000
square
feet
of
building
area
per
floor;
alternatively,
the
units
could
increase
in
size.
Variations
in
parking
requirements,
including
shared
parking
applications,
may
be
approved.
The
City,
in
the
2006-‐2013
planning
cycle,
increased
density
to
24
units
per
acre,
and
height
limits
in
commercial
zones
to
40
feet
for
affordable
housing
projects.
Although
the
increased
height
limit
would
not
be
required
to
achieve
24
units
per
acre,
it
would
provide
greater
flexibility
in
building
envelopes
and
commercial
and
residential
floor
plates.
Residential
development
in
the
commercial
zones
must
conform
to
the
Affordable
Housing
Overlay
and
Mixed
Use
development
standards.
These
zones
do
not
have
any
performance
requirements
that
mandate
commercial
or
other
nonresidential
development.
Expanding
opportunities
for
vertically
mixed-‐use
development
increases
the
City’s
capacity
for
new
attached.
Attached
housing
types,
which
can
generally
be
more
affordable
and
lower
maintenance
than
single-‐family
detached
homes,
may
provide
much
needed
new
housing
opportunities
for
La
Quinta’s
single-‐
parents,
workforce,
and
seniors.
Boarding
houses,
senior
group
housing,
and
SRO
hotels
are
conditionally
permitted
in
the
CR
zone.
Emergency
shelters
are
permitted
in
all
commercial
zones.
The
City
does
not
regulate
supportive
or
transitional
housing
which
occurs
in
single
family
homes
and
includes
6
or
fewer
residents.
Transitional
and
supportive
shelters
for
7
or
more
that
HOUSING
II-‐288
include
social
or
medical
services
are
permitted
in
residential
zones
with
the
same
permitting
requirements
as
similar
uses
in
those
zones.
Transitional
and
supportive
shelters
that
only
provide
housing
are
permitted
as
a
residential
use
and
only
subject
to
those
restrictions
that
apply
to
other
residential
uses
of
the
same
type
in
the
same
zone.
Table
II-‐50
2013
Residential
Development
Standards
Development
Standard
RVL
RL
RC
RM
RMH
RH
RSP
RR
Min.
Lot
Size
for
Single-‐Family
Dwelling
20,000
7,200
7,200
3,600
2,000
[A]
[C]
Min.
Project
Size
for
Multifamily
Projects
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
20,00
0
20,00
0
[A]
N/A
Min.
Lot
Frontage
for
Single-‐Family
Dwellings
(ft)
100
60
60
50
40
N/A
[A]
[C]
Min.
Frontage
for
Multifamily
Projects
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
100
100
[A]
[C]
Max.
Structure
Height
(ft)
1
28
28
17
28
28
40
50
35
Max.
No.
of
Stories
2
2
1
2
2
3
4
2
Min.
Front
Yard
Setback
(ft)
30
20
20
20
20
20
[A]
[D]
Min.
Garage
Setback
N/A
20
20
20
20
20
[A]
[D]
Min.
Interior/Exterior
Side
Yard
Setback
(ft)
10/20
5/10
5/10
5/10
5/10
10/15
[A]
[D]
Min.
Rear
Yard
Setback
(ft)
30
20/10
10
15
15
20
[A]
[D]
Max.
Lot
Coverage
(%
of
net
lot
area)
40
50
60
60
60
60
[A]
[C]
Min.
Livable
Area
Excluding
Garage
(sf)
2,500
1,400
1,400
1,400
1,400
(MF:
750)
MF:
750
[A]
[C]
Min.
Common
Open
Area
N/A
N/A
N/A
30%
30%
30%
[A]
[C]
Min.
Perimeter
Landscape
Setbacks
(ft)
10/20
10/20
N/A
10/20
10/20
10/20
[B]
[C]
Source:
City
of
La
Quinta
Municipal
Code
2013
1
Within
150
feet
of
any
General
Plan
designated
Image
Corridor
is
17
feet
in
the
RC
zone
and
22
feet
in
other
zones.
[A]
Subject
to
a
specific
plan.
[B]
See
Section
9.90.040
of
the
Municipal
Code.
[C]
Dependent
upon
use
and
density.
[D]
Setback
criteria
shall
be
determined
based
on
the
existing
site
conditions
and
surroundings,
in
conjunction
with
the
guidelines
and
the
proposed
project
characteristics.
HOUSING
II-‐289
Table
II-‐51
2013
Permitted
Residential
Uses
by
Residential
Zoning
District
Land
Use
Residential
Zoning
District
Very
Low
Low
Cove
Medium
Medium
High
High
RVL
RL
RC
RM
RMH
RH
Conventional
Housing
Single-‐Family
Detached
P
P
P
P
P
S
Duplex
S
S
S
S
P
P
Single-‐Family
Attached
S
S
X
S
P
P
Condominium
Multifamily
S
S
X
S
P
P
Apartment
Multifamily
X
X
X
P
P
P
Mobile
Home
Park
C
C
C
C
C
C
Mobile
Home
Subdivision
and
Manufactured
Home
P
P
P
P
P
X
Resort
Residential
C
C
X
C
C
C
Special
Needs
Housing
Congregate
Living
Facility
(<6)
1
P
P
P
P
P
X
Congregate
Care
Facility
2
C
C
C
C
C
C
Emergency
Shelter
X
X
X
X
X
X
Guest
House
A
A
A
X
X
X
Residential
Care
Facility
(≥6)
5
P
P
P
P
P
P
Second
Unit
A
A
A
A
A
A
Second
Units
(multiple)
6
C
C
X
X
X
X
Senior
Citizen
Residence
(<6)
P
P
P
P
P
P
Senior
Group
Housing
(7+)
7
X
X
X
X
C
C
Single
Room
Occupancy
8
X
X
X
X
X
X
Supportive
and
Transitional
Shelter
X
X
X
C
C
C
Source:
City
of
La
Quinta
Municipal
Code
2008
P
=
Principal
use;
C
=
Conditional
use
permit;
M
=
Minor
use
permit;
S=
Specific
plan;
A
=
Accessory
use;
X
=
Prohibited
use
1
Single-‐family
residential
facility
that
is
licensed
by
the
state
to
provide
living
and
treatment
facilities
on
a
monthly
or
longer
basis
for
six
or
fewer
developmentally
disabled
persons
or
six
or
fewer
persons
undergoing
treatment
for
alcohol
or
drug
abuse
and
that
is
permitted
in
single-‐family
residences
by
HOUSING
II-‐290
operation
of
state
law.
2
A
facility
providing
care
on
a
monthly
basis
or
longer
that
is
the
primary
residence
of
the
people
it
serves.
It
provides
services
to
the
residents
such
as
dining,
housekeeping,
security,
medical,
transportation
and
recreation.
5
A
residential
facility
licensed
by
the
state
to
provide
living
and
treatment
facilities
on
a
monthly
or
longer
basis
for
six
or
fewer
of
the
following:
wards
of
the
juvenile
court,
elderly
persons,
mentally
disordered
persons,
handicapped
persons
or
dependent
and
neglected
children.
Such
a
facility
is
permitted
in
all
types
of
residences
by
operation
of
state
law.
6
More
than
one
guest
house
or
second
residential
unit
may
be
permitted
on
a
lot
with
approval
of
a
CUP
in
the
Very
Low/Low
Density
zones.
7
A
residential
development
developed
or
substantially
renovated
for
and
occupied
by
seven
or
more
senior
citizens
(includes
senior
citizen
hotels,
retirement
hotels
and
senior
citizen
apartments).
8
A
residential
facility
that
is
rented
on
a
weekly
or
longer
basis
and
provides
living
and
sleeping
facilities
for
one
or
two
persons
per
unit.
Each
unit
contains
a
toilet
and
sink.
Shower,
kitchen,
and
laundry
facilities
may
be
shared.
Table
II-‐52
2013
Permitted
Residential
Uses
by
Nonresidential
Zoning
District
Land
Use
Zoning
District
Regional
Commercial
Commercial
Park
Community
Commercial
Neighbor-‐hood
Commercial
Tourist
Commercial
Office
Commercial
Major
Community
Facilities
Village
Commercial
CR
CP
CC
CN
CT
CO
MC
VC
Conventional
Housing
Single-‐Family
Residential
S
X
X
X
X
X
X
V
Multifamily
Housing
AHO
AHO
AHO
AHO
AHO
AHO
AHO
AHO
Resort
Residential
S
X
C
X
C
X
X
X
RV
Rental/
Ownership
Parks
C
X
C
X
C
X
X
X
Special
Needs
Housing
Emergency
Shelter
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Rooming/
Boarding
Housing
C
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Senior
Group
Housing3
C
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Single
Room
Occupancy
Hotel
4
C
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Transitional
Shelter
C
X
X
X
X
X
C
X
Source:
City
of
La
Quinta
Municipal
Code
2012
P
=
Principal
use;
C
=
Conditional
use
permit;
M
=
Minor
use
permit;
S=
Specific
plan;
V
=
Village
Use
Permit;
A
=
Accessory
use;
X
=
Prohibited
use
Residential
over
commercial
mixed-‐use
development
will
be
permitted
by
right
of
zone
in
the
CR,
CP,
CC,
CN,
CT,
and
CO
zones
(Program
1.5).
Residential
over
retail
is
already
permitted
in
the
VC
zone
with
a
Village
Use
Permit.
1
Multifamily
housing
includes
duplexes,
apartments,
and
other
types
of
housing
for
multiple
families.
3
A
residential
development
that
is
developed
or
substantially
renovated
for
and
occupied
by
seven
or
more
senior
citizens
(includes
senior
citizen
hotels,
retirement
hotels
and
senior
citizen
apartments).
4
A
residential
facility
that
is
rented
on
a
weekly
or
longer
basis
and
provides
living
and
sleeping
facilities
for
one
or
two
persons
per
unit.
Each
unit
contains
a
toilet
and
sink.
Shower,
kitchen,
and
laundry
facilities
may
be
shared.
HOUSING
II-‐291
Density
Bonus
California
law
(Government
Code
Sec.
65915
et
seq.)
allows
for
an
increase
in
the
density
of
a
residential
development
when
a
developer
donates
land
or
constructs
affordable
housing
as
a
part
of
a
project.
The
City
updated
its
zoning
code
to
reflect
amendments
to
density
bonus
law
during
the
2006-‐2013
planning
period.
A
density
bonus
of
20
percent
above
the
maximum
permitted
density
may
be
granted
if
a
project
includes
5
percent
of
the
units
at
rates
affordable
to
very
low
income
households
or
10
percent
of
the
units
at
rates
affordable
to
low
income
households.
If
10
percent
of
the
total
units
are
affordable
to
moderate
income
households
in
a
common
interest
development,
then
the
project
is
eligible
to
receive
a
5
percent
density
bonus.
In
addition,
a
sliding
scale
requires
additional
density
bonuses
above
the
base
20
percent.
The
maximum
density
bonus
is
35
percent
over
the
maximum
allowable
density
under
the
applicable
zoning
and
General
Plan
designation.
With
a
density
bonus,
allowable
residential
densities
range
from
2.7
units
per
acre
in
the
RVL
zone
to
32
units
per
acre
in
the
high
density
and
mixed-‐use
zones
and
specific
plans.
Projects
that
are
restricted
to
senior
residents
are
also
eligible
to
a
density
bonus
of
20
percent
without
any
income-‐restricted
units.
The
density
bonus
is
not
required
to
exceed
20
percent
and
is
not
subject
to
the
sliding
scale
mentioned
above
unless
a
minimum
number
of
income-‐restricted
units
are
included.
Second
Unit
and
Guest
House/Employee
Quarter
Requirements
Second
units
are
independent
living
quarters
on
existing
home
lots
that
typically
provide
affordable
rental
opportunities
for
lower
and
moderate
income
households,
including
seniors,
disabled
persons,
single
parents,
domestic
employees,
and
extended
family
members.
Second
units
create
additional
housing
opportunities
on
already
developed
or
developing
parcels.
Second
units
are
often
referred
to
as
“casitas”
throughout
the
Coachella
Valley.
To
facilitate
affordable
housing
development
second
units
are
permitted
in
all
residential-‐only
zones.
The
City
revised
its
Second
Unit
Ordinance
in
2007
to
remove
a
requirement
for
a
minor
use
permit
and
instead
permits
second
units
by
right
as
an
accessory
structure.
Additionally,
the
City
now
permits
the
construction
of
more
than
one
second
unit
with
the
approval
of
a
conditional
use
permit
in
the
Very
Low
and
Low
Density
Residential
zones.
HOUSING
II-‐292
Conditions
on
the
second
unit
(or
units)
require
that
no
interest
in
the
second
residential
unit
may
be
sold
separately
from
the
remainder
of
the
property,
though
the
unit
may
be
rented;
that
the
lot
contain
an
existing
single-‐family
dwelling
that
conforms
to
the
minimum
lot
size
requirement;
that
the
second
unit
is
no
larger
than
1,200
square
feet
or
30
percent
of
the
primary
home;
and
must
have
its
own
off-‐street
parking
space.
More
than
half
of
the
single-‐family
detached
homes
approved
in
La
Quinta
in
recent
years
include
a
second
unit
or
guest
house.
Guest
houses
are
detached
or
attached
units
with
sleeping
and
sanitary
facilities,
but
no
cooking
facilities.
Per
Municipal
Code
Section
9.60.100,
no
rent
may
be
charged
for
residency
or
stay
in
a
guest
house.
The
purpose
of
guest
houses
is
to
provide
free
on-‐site
housing
for
relatives,
guests
and
domestic
employees.
This
type
of
second
unit
is
particularly
important
to
provide
housing
opportunities
for
the
City’s
extremely
low
income
workforce.
Similar
to
a
second
unit,
a
guest
house
may
not
exceed
30
percent
of
the
square
footage
of
the
primary
structure
and
must
conform
to
lot
coverage
requirements.
The
City
has
also
amended
its
zoning
code
to
remove
the
requirement
for
a
minor
use
permit,
and
to
allow
cooking
facilities
in
guest
houses,
similar
to
second
units.
Manufactured
Housing
Requirements
Manufactured
housing
and
mobile
homes
are
considered
housing
alternatives,
especially
for
serving
the
needs
of
lower-‐income
households.
Manufactured
homes
and
mobile
home
subdivisions
are
a
permitted
use
in
any
residential-‐only
zone
except
for
High
Density
Residential.
Manufactured
housing
on
a
single-‐family
lot
must
obtain
a
minor
use
permit
by
approval
of
the
Planning
Commission
to
ensure
that
it
is
consistent
with
the
development
standards
in
single-‐family
zones.
Parking
Requirements
Parking
requirements
in
the
City
of
La
Quinta,
shown
in
Table
II-‐53,
are
typical
for
a
city
of
its
size
with
resort
oriented
characteristics.
Additionally,
the
parking
requirements
for
special
needs
uses
are
relatively
minimal
and
facilitate
the
construction
of
such
uses.
Reductions
required
parking
spaces
is
often
a
concession
granted
to
affordable
housing
developers
through
the
City’s
density
bonus
provisions.
Overall,
the
parking
requirements
do
not
directly
constrain
the
development
of
housing.
HOUSING
II-‐293
The
City
is
currently
updating
the
Zoning
Ordinance
to
allow
the
reduction
or
modification
of
parking
requirements
associated
with
multi-‐family
development.
Table
II-‐53
Parking
Requirements
for
Residential
Uses
Land
Use
Minimum
Off-‐Street
Parking
Spaces
Guest
Spaces
Single-‐Family
Units
Single-‐Family
Detached,
Single-‐Family
Attached
and
Duplex
2
spaces
per
unit
in
a
garage
Tandem
garages
allowed
in
RC
zone
0.5
guest
space
per
unit
if
no
on-‐street
parking
is
available
Townhome
2
spaces
per
unit
in
a
garage
0.8
guest
space
per
unit
Mobile
Home
Park
2
covered
spaces
per
unit
(tandem
permitted)
0.8
guest
space
per
unit
Multifamily
Units
Studio
1
covered
space
per
unit
0.5
guest
space
per
unit
One
Bedroom
1.2
covered
spaces
per
unit
0.5
guest
space
per
unit
Two
Bedrooms
2
covered
spaces
per
unit
0.5
guest
space
per
unit
Three
or
More
Bedrooms
3
covered
spaces
per
unit,
plus
0.5
covered
space
per
each
bedroom
over
three
0.5
guest
space
per
unit
Special
Needs
Guest
House/Employee
Quarters
1
covered
or
uncovered
space.
This
space
shall
not
be
tandem.
Second
Unit
1
covered
or
uncovered
space.
This
space
shall
not
be
tandem.
Senior
Group
Housing,
Senior
Citizen
Hotel,
and
Congregate
Care
Facility
5
covered
spaces
per
unit
0.5
guest
space
per
unit
Single
Room
Occupancy
Hotel
1
space
per
sleeping
room
Source:
City
of
La
Quinta
Municipal
Code
2008
Subdivision
Improvement
Requirements
The
City
maintains
subdivision
improvement
requirements
that
contribute
to
the
cost
of
housing.
In
many
cases,
a
developer
may
be
required
to
provide
any
or
all
of
the
required
improvements
within
a
subdivision
or
a
single
residential
project.
Although
the
provision
of
these
improvements
or
actions
required
to
meet
subdivision
requirements
may
cumulatively
add
costs
to
the
provision
of
housing,
they
are
not
considered
a
deterrent,
as
they
are
required
throughout
California
with
public
safety
as
the
underlying
factor.
Pertinent
improvements
include:
HOUSING
II-‐294
Full-‐width
street
improvements
for
all
internal
subdivision
streets
and
alleys
shall
be
installed,
Where
a
subdivision
borders
a
public
street,
the
developer
shall
provide
half-‐width
right-‐of-‐way
improvements,
plus
one
additional
travel
lane
on
the
opposite
side
of
the
centerline
if
it
does
not
already
exist,
Additional
rights-‐of-‐way
or
easements
shall
be
provided
to
accommodate
roadway
slopes,
multi-‐purpose
paths,
and
other
required
facilities,
Minimum
landscape
setback
widths
shall
be
20
feet
from
primary
arterial
streets,
10
feet
from
secondary
arterial
streets,
and
10
feet
from
collector
streets.
Local
streets
shall
be
a
minimum
of
60
feet
in
width
with
36–40
feet
curb
to
curb,
and
10-‐12
feet
for
landscape
parkway
and
cul-‐
de-‐sacs
shall
be
a
minimum
width
of
50
feet
with
32–36
feet
curb
to
curb
and
7-‐9
feet
for
landscape
parkway,
Private
streets
are
limited
to
36
feet
in
width
when
parking
is
double
loaded,
32
feet
when
single
loaded,
Sidewalks
are
required
to
be
provided
on
both
sides
of
the
street
within
public
rights-‐of-‐way
of
all
General
Plan
designated
arterial
and
collector
streets;
for
local
streets
in
residential
areas
and
in
areas
designated
rural
residential
overlay
where
densities
exceed
3
du/ac,
Transit
facilities
such
as
bus
turnouts
and
covered
bus
shelters
and
benches
are
required
if
a
bus
stop
occurs
adjacent
to
the
development
site,
on
General
Plan
designated
arterial
and
collector
streets,
street
width
transitions;
pavement
elevation
transitions
and
other
incidental
work
deemed
necessary
for
public
safety
may
be
required
immediately
adjacent
to
the
development
site,
Other
improvements
required
to
be
provided
by
the
developer
may
include
traffic
signs;
channelization
markings/devices;
street
name
signs;
medians;
and
mailbox
clusters,
The
developer
shall
provide
improvements
connecting
the
subdivision
to
the
domestic
water
supply
and
distribution
system
operated
by
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District,
and
is
required
to
connect
to
an
existing
sewer
collection
system.
Local
Processing
and
Permit
Procedures
The
cost
of
holding
land
by
a
developer
during
the
evaluation
and
review
process
is
frequently
cited
by
builders
as
a
contributing
factor
to
the
high
cost
of
housing.
The
California
Government
Code
establishes
permitted
time
periods
for
local
agencies
to
review
and
act
upon
private
development
proposals.
Typical
local
development
HOUSING
II-‐295
application
processing
times
identified
in
Table
II-‐54
reflect
both
single-‐
and
multifamily
uses.
Multifamily
projects
generally
have
shorter
processing
times
than
single-‐family
tract
maps
because
Site
Development
Permits
are
approved
at
Planning
Commission,
while
tract
maps
have
to
go
to
City
Council
for
review.
State-‐imposed
time
restrictions
are
identified
in
Table
II-‐55.
Table
II-‐54
Local
Development
Processing
Times
Item
Typical
Length
of
Time
From
Submittal
to
Public
Hearing
Minor
Use
Permit
1–2
weeks
Village
Use
Permit
9–12
weeks
Site
Development
Permit
8–10
weeks
Conditional
Use
Permit
9–12
weeks
Tentative
Tract
Map
10–12
weeks
Variance
8–10
weeks
Zoning
Amendments
or
Zone
Change
9–12
weeks
General
Plan
Amendment
12–16
weeks
Specific
Plan
12–16
weeks
Environmental
Documentation
Runs
with
application
Source:
City
of
La
Quinta
2008
Table
II-‐55
State
Development
Processing
Time
Limits
Item
State
Maximum
General
Plan
Amendment
None
Zone
Change
None
Subdivision
Action
on
Tentative
Map
50
Days
Environmental
Documentation/CEQA
Review
of
Application
for
Completeness
30
Days
Determination
of
NEG
DEC
or
EIR
Requirement
1
30
Days
Completion
of
NEG
DEC
Requirement
105
Days
Certification
of
Final
EIR
1
Year
Source::
City
of
La
Quinta
2008
1
The
City
attempts
to
process
the
Negative
Declaration
so
that
it
runs
with
application
Site
Development
Permit
The
purpose
of
the
site
development
permit
process
is
to
review
detailed
plans
for
proposed
development
projects
to
ensure
that
the
standards
of
the
Zoning
Code,
including
permitted
uses,
development
standards
and
supplemental
regulations
are
satisfied.
If
the
proposed
project
is
part
of
a
previously
adopted
Specific
Plan,
the
review
and
approval
of
Site
Development
Permit
application
may
be
streamlined
as
called
for
in
the
Specific
Plan.
The
site
development
permit
process
HOUSING
II-‐296
enables
the
Architecture
and
Landscape
Review
Committee
and
Planning
Commission
to
review
the
site
plan;
architectural,
lighting
and
landscape
plans;
related
development
plans;
and
sign
programs.
The
Architecture
and
Landscape
Review
Committee
is
a
technical
advisory
group
that
is
allowed
one
opportunity
to
make
design
recommendations,
but
they
cannot
establish
conditions
or
grant
approvals.
The
Planning
Commission
does
not
exercise
discretionary
review
over
the
proposed
land
use;
the
focus
on
the
Site
Development
Permit
is
on
issues
of
site
planning
and
design.
A
Site
Development
Permit
may
take
a
minimum
of
6
weeks
for
review,
but
the
process
could
take
as
long
as
almost
3
months,
if
unforeseen
complications
arise.
To
reduce
the
amount
of
time
required
for
plan
review,
the
City
provides
no-‐cost
preliminary
project
review
to
give
the
applicant
information
on
City
requirements
and
project
feedback
prior
to
committing
to
the
application
process.
Preliminary
review
can
save
the
applicant
both
time
and
money,
making
the
proposed
development
more
cost
effective.
Minor
Use
Permit
The
only
residential
use
requiring
a
MUP
is
manufactured
housing
established
on
a
single-‐family
lot.
Most
MUPs
are
administratively
approved
by
Planning
Department
staff.
On
rare
occasions,
the
project
may
be
reviewed
by
the
Planning
Commission
at
a
public
hearing
to
ensure
that
it
is
consistent
with
the
development
standards
in
single-‐
family
zones.
Conditional
Use
Permit
A
conditional
use
permit
is
required
for
senior
group
housing
proposed
in
a
CR,
RMH,
or
RH
zones,
and
for
congregate
care
facilities
in
any
residential
designation.
The
CR
zone
also
permits
single-‐family
residential
and
mixed-‐use
office/residential
with
a
specific
plan
and,
multifamily
uses
and
SRO
uses
with
a
CUP.
The
requirement
for
a
CUP
requires
a
public
hearing
before
the
Planning
Commission.
However,
a
CUP
is
often
processed
concurrently
with
an
SDP;
therefore
no
additional
time
is
required
for
the
processing
of
the
CUP.
Typical
findings
required
to
approve
a
CUP
are
consistency
with
the
goals,
objectives,
and
policies
of
the
General
Plan,
consistency
with
the
Zoning
Code,
compliance
with
CEQA,
and
certification
that
the
proposed
project
is
neither
detrimental
to
the
health,
safety,
and
welfare
of
the
public
nor
injurious
to
adjacent
uses.
The
most
common
HOUSING
II-‐297
specific
conditions
of
approval
relate
to
mitigating
environmental
impacts
such
as
erosion,
storm
water
runoff,
and
traffic.
These
conditions
are
necessary
to
protect
environmental
integrity
and
public
health
and
safety
and
are
not
considered
a
constraint
to
housing
development.
Discussions
with
affordable
housing
developers
have
consistently
indicated
that
the
City’s
CUP
process
does
not
inhibit
the
process
or
cost
of
building
affordable
housing.
Specific
Plan
Specific
plans
are
unique
regulations
designed
to
provide
more
flexibility
than
permitted
through
the
Municipal
Code.
The
processing
of
a
specific
plan
can
add
6
weeks
to
the
project
schedule.
However,
the
additional
entitlement
rights,
flexibility
in
design
and
use,
and
infrastructure
negotiations
obtained
through
the
specific
plan
process
generally
outweigh
the
impacts
of
the
additional
time
expenditure.
Specific
plans
must
be
reviewed
by
the
Planning
Commission
and
City
Council
at
a
public
hearing.
In
La
Quinta
specific
plans
are
adopted
by
resolution.
The
required
findings
for
approval
are
consistency
with
the
goals,
objectives,
and
policies
of
the
General
Plan;
certification
that
the
project
does
not
create
conditions
that
are
detrimental
to
public
health,
safety,
and
welfare;
and
proof
that
uses
are
compatible
with
nearby
uses
and
the
property
is
suitable
for
the
proposed
project.
The
City
allows
the
concurrent
processing
of
applications
to
accelerate
the
process.
For
example,
for
a
Specific
Plan
that
also
requires
a
CUP
both
permits
would
be
processed
at
the
same
time
so
no
additional
review
time
is
necessary.
The
City
also
provides
for
discounted
application
fees
when
multiple
applications
are
filed
concurrently.
Overall,
the
processing
periods
and
procedures
are
not
considered
a
constraint
to
the
production
of
housing
by
the
development
community.
The
City
processes
residential
projects
within
statutory
time
frames.
The
processing
period
is
actually
expedited
for
projects
within
adopted
specific
plan
areas,
as
environmental
review
has
been
conducted
and
standards
have
been
imposed,
e.g.,
exactions
and
payment
schedules,
design,
etc.,
for
the
entire
area
and
in
itself
does
not
significantly
impact
housing
construction
costs.
Village
Use
Permit
The
purpose
of
the
Village
Use
Permit
(VUP)
is
to
provide
the
City
with
an
opportunity
to
review
new
development
projects
proposed
in
the
Village
Commercial
(VC)
zone.
Any
potential
project
applicant
in
the
Village
area
has
the
option
to
file
a
preliminary
development
plan
to
HOUSING
II-‐298
ascertain
anticipated
conditions,
requirements,
and
costs
associated
with
a
proposal.
The
preliminary
development
plan
process
is
free
of
charge
and
encouraged
as
a
means
of
providing
clarity
to
the
development
community.
All
uses
allowed
as
primary
uses
in
the
VC
zone
are
permitted
by
right.
The
VUP
is
not
a
review
of
the
actual
use,
rather
it
is
a
development
review
process
used
in
the
Village.
Residential
uses
are
permitted
in
the
VC
zone
with
a
VUP.
Most
projects
in
the
VC
zone
are
infill
and
are
exempt
from
CEQA
and
associated
fees,
thus
streamlining
the
process
and
reducing
development
costs.
The
Village
at
La
Quinta
Design
Guidelines
(Guidelines)
encourages
the
development
of
residential
and
mixed
uses
in
the
Village,
and
provides
a
greater
level
of
flexibility
for
the
applicant.
The
land
use
section
sets
forth
the
following
general
guidelines:
The
Village
shall
include
residential
mixes
Residential
uses
shall
locate
above
commercial
uses
in
common
buildings
or
may
be
in
stand-‐alone
multifamily
buildings
Mixed
use
projects
are
not
subject
to
any
floor
area
ratio
or
lot
coverage
standards
Compact
groupings
are
encouraged
to
promote
pedestrian
mobility
The
Guidelines
provide
more
flexible
design
standards
and
do
not
contain
requirements
or
standards
that
constrain
the
development
of
affordable
or
market
rate
housing.
Village
Use
Permits
are
approved
at
regularly
scheduled
Planning
Commission
hearings.
Typical
findings
for
approval
include
consistency
with
the
City’s
General
Plan,
Zoning
Code,
CEQA,
Village
at
La
Quinta
Design
Guidelines,
and
a
determination
that
the
proposed
project
will
not
be
detrimental
to
public
health,
safety,
and
welfare
or
injurious
to
adjacent
uses.
Permitting
Mixed
Use
Development
Mixed
use
development
can
provide
a
lively,
walkable,
and
convenient
living
and
visiting
experience.
Mixed
Use
is
allowed
in
most
commercial
zones
in
the
City.
The
City
has
not
determined
any
conditions
of
approval
specific
to
mixed
use
development;
conditions
are
determined
on
a
case-‐by-‐case
basis,
reflecting
the
context
and
design
of
each
project.
Affordable
housing
developers
in
the
area
have
indicated
that
the
process
in
La
Quinta
has
not
posed
a
constraint
to
affordable
housing
projects.
HOUSING
II-‐299
Development
and
Processing
Fees
Development
fees
set
by
the
City
and
other
regional
fees,
cover
the
costs
for
infrastructure,
environmental
protection,
public
services,
and
utilities
incurred
by
residential
development.
These
fees
impact
the
cost
of
housing,
and
may
therefore
reduce
the
ability
for
unassisted
market-‐rate
housing
to
provide
units
affordable
to
low
income
households.
In
addition
to
City
fees
and
assessments,
developers
of
new
dwellings
will
be
obligated
to
pay
Multi-‐Species
Habitat
Conservation
Plan
fees,
Fish
and
Game
fees,
Art
in
Public
Places
fees,
development
impact
fees
(Table
II-‐56),
and
other
special
district
assessments
that
will
impact
residential
projects.
City
fees
either
pay
for
the
processing
of
an
application
or
the
funding
of
a
proportional
share
of
major
facility
fees
associated
with
delivery
of
essential
public
services
such
as
sewer,
water,
fire
protection,
stormwater
drainage,
and
parks.
Costs
associated
with
the
permitting
process
are
a
potential
constraint
to
the
development
of
low-‐income
housing.
Table
II-‐57
presents
an
overview
of
City
fees
for
an
average
1,500-‐square-‐foot
tract
home
with
a
two-‐car
garage
in
a
low
density
subdivision
and
an
average
950-‐
square-‐foot
multifamily
home
with
a
two-‐car
garage.
In
addition
to
these
fees,
all
residential
development
whether
in
La
Quinta
or
elsewhere
in
California
is
required
to
pay
the
State
mandated
school
impact
fee,
which
varies
from
year
to
year.
In
general,
for
residential
development,
the
school
impact
fee
is
approximately
$2.65
per
square
foot.
The
City
has
no
control
over
this
fee,
and
as
it
is
charged
in
all
cities,
it
cannot
be
considered
a
constraint
on
development
in
La
Quinta.
The
City
has
recently
overhauled
its
planning
fee
schedule,
and
also
has
joined
into
the
regional
Transportation
Uniform
Mitigation
Fee
(TUMF)
program
administered
through
CVAG.
These
fees
and
assessments
correspond
to
and
pay
for
the
cost
of
processing
various
types
of
applications,
as
shown
in
Table
II-‐58.
However,
the
City
offers
a
75
percent
cost
reduction
on
fees
when
multiple
applications
are
simultaneously
processed,
such
as
for
a
specific
plan,
EIR,
and
development
agreement
running
concurrently
on
the
same
property.
In
such
a
case,
the
highest
fee
is
charged
in
full,
with
the
remaining
fees
charged
at
75
percent
discount.
The
City
is
also
now
tracking
its
applications
on
a
time
and
deposit
basis,
as
part
of
implementing
the
new
fee
schedule.
HOUSING
II-‐300
While
the
fees
charged
by
the
City
add
to
the
cost
of
housing
and
therefore
are
a
constraint
to
the
provision
of
affordable
housing,
infrastructure
improvements
and
processing
must
be
paid.
A
comparison
of
the
City’s
fees
with
other
communities
in
the
Coachella
Valley
indicates
that
the
City
generally
charges
comparable
fees
to
other
cities.
Table
II-‐56
Impact
Fees
Per
Unit
of
Development
Land
Use
Type
Development
Units
Fee
Residential
(SFD)
1
Dwelling
Unit
$6,894
Residential
(SFA)
2
Dwelling
Unit
$6,681
Residential
(MFA)
3
Dwelling
Unit
$5,030
Office/Hospital
1,000
SF
$5,379
General
Commercial
1,000
SF
$6,456
Tourist
Commercial
Room
$2,185
Golf
Courses
Acre
$957
Source:
City
of
La
Quinta
2008
1
Residential-‐single-‐family
detached,
fee
amount
expected
to
be
adopted
in
2010.
2
Residential-‐single-‐family
attached,
fee
amount
expected
to
be
adopted
in
2010.
3
Residential-‐multi-‐family
and
other
HOUSING
II-‐301
Table
II-‐57
Development
Fees
for
Typical
Single-‐Family
and
Multifamily
Homes
Type
of
Fee
Cost
Per
Unit
Multifamily
1
Single-‐Family
2
Building
Fees
Construction
$422
$591
Plan
Check
(Standard
Plan)
$616
$818
Mechanical
$69
$75
Plumbing
1
Bath
=
$120
2
Bath
=
$144
Electrical
$126
$176
Strong
Motion
Instrumentation
$5
$9
Grading
$20
$20
CVWD
Water/Sewer
Fee
$4,325
$4,325
TUMF*
$1,276.80
$1,837.44
Other
Fees
(Location)
Development
Impact
Fee
$5,030
$6,894
SFD
Multi-‐Species
Habitat
Conservation
Plan
3
$521
$1,284
Fish
and
Game
Fee
(unfinished
lot)
Negative
Declaration–flat
$2,057
fee
$2,052
$2,052
Art
in
Public
Places
(Total
Value)
Based
on
project
valuation
charged
at
one-‐
quarter
of
1
percent
of
anything
over
$200,000
or
$20
minimum
$20
$20
Quimby
fees
(if
in-‐lieu
of
land
dedication—fee
payment
only
option
for
tracts
of
<50
lots/units)
Based
on
per-‐acre
FMV
of
land
Based
on
per-‐acre
FMV
of
land
Total
$13,326
$16,408
Source:
City
of
La
Quinta
2013
1
Calculated
on
a
950-‐square-‐foot
unit
for
both
8
units
per
acre
and
16
units
per
acre
on
a
one-‐
acre
parcel.
2
Calculated
on
a
1,500-‐square-‐foot
home
for
both
single-‐family
detached
and
single-‐family
attached
at
3
units
per
acre
on
a
one-‐acre
parcel.
3
$1,284/unit
at
0–8
DU/AC,
$521/unit
at
8.01–14
DU/AC,
and
$235/unit
at
>14
DU/AC
*Based
on
trips
generated
per
unit
HOUSING
II-‐302
Table
II-‐58
Planning
Department
Fee
Schedule
Item/Type
Permit
Base
Fee
General
Conditional
Use
Permit
General1
Amendment
$3,968
$1,859
Site
Development
Permit
Amendment*
Time
Extensions*
$5,577
$2,850
$1,359
Village
Use
Permit
$5,577
Minor
Use
Permit*
$200
General
Plan
Amendment
$6,149
Specific
Plan
$6,292
Specific
Plan
Amendments
$2,360
Temporary
Use
Permit*
$200
Variance
$1,359
Certificate
of
Zoning
Compliance*
$572
Change
of
Zone
$6,149
Zoning
Text
Amendment
$6,149
Sign
Permit*
$200
Sign
Program
-‐
When
submitted
after
Site
Development
Permit
approval
$2,181
Land
Division
Parcel
Map
Waiver*
Amendment*
Revision*
Time
Extension*
$3,432
$1,216
$2,038
$2,038
$715
Subdivision
Tentative
Tract
Map
Tentative
Tract
Amendment
Time
Extension*
$5,577
$2,681
$787
Statutory
Condominium
Subdivision
$3,861
Certificate
of
Compliance*
572
Other
Permits
and
Fees
Appeals*
$1,573
Environmental
Assessment
$286
Development
Agreement
$1,859
Source:
City
of
La
Quinta
2013
*
=
Permit
usually
does
not
require
CEQA
review.
HOUSING
II-‐303
Building
Codes
and
Enforcement
The
City
of
La
Quinta
has
adopted
the
following
State
Codes:
2010
California
Building
Code,
2010
California
Mechanical
Code,
2010
California
Plumbing
Code,
2010
California
Energy
Code,
and
the
2010
California
Electrical
Code.
In
addition,
the
City
enforces
the
2010
California
Code
Fire
Code,
Residential
Code,
and
Green
Code.
Starting
in
2014,
the
City
will
begin
enforcing
the
respective
2013
Codes.
Overall,
the
Building
Codes
adopted
by
the
City
of
La
Quinta
do
not
pose
any
special
constraints
on
the
production
or
cost
of
housing.
The
City
has
not
made
substantive
amendments
to
the
code
that
would
adversely
affect
housing.
The
City
of
La
Quinta
enforces
the
Housing
Code
which
provides
minimum
health
and
safety
standards
for
the
maintenance
of
the
existing
housing
supply.
These
standards
are
intended
to
provide
for
safe
and
sanitary
housing
that
is
fit
for
human
habitation.
The
enforcement
of
the
Housing
Code
is
normally
handled
on
a
complaint-‐
response
basis.
The
most
common
housing-‐related
problem
is
illegal
additions/garage
conversions.
Warnings
are
issued
with
a
referral
to
the
City
and
other
agencies
for
remediation
assistance.
The
Housing
Code
mandates
that
health
and
safety
deficiencies
be
corrected
in
accordance
with
construction
standards
that
were
in
effect
at
the
time
the
structure
was
built.
In
cases
where
property
owners
refuse
to
correct
deficiencies,
enforcement
of
the
Housing
Code
relies
on
civil
sanctions.
Constraints
to
the
Provision
of
Housing
for
Persons
with
Disabilities
State
law,
per
Senate
Bill
520,
requires
that
in
addition
to
an
analysis
of
special
housing
needs
for
persons
with
disabilities,
the
Housing
Element
must
analyze
potential
governmental
constraints
to
the
development,
improvement
and
maintenance
of
housing
for
persons
with
disabilities.
Programs
must
be
included
to
remove
constraints
to
providing
adequate
housing
for
persons
with
disabilities.
The
City
maintains
general
processes
for
individuals
with
disabilities
to
make
requests
for
reasonable
accommodation
through
the
Zoning
Code,
the
permit
processing
process,
and
building
codes.
The
City
integrated
a
reasonable
accommodation
process
into
its
Zoning
Ordinance
during
the
last
planning
period.
HOUSING
II-‐304
The
updated
Zoning
Code
does
not
restrict
the
location
of
group
homes.
Group
homes
(congregate
care)
with
six
or
fewer
persons
are
permitted
by
right
in
all
residential
zones
except
High
Density;
group
homes
of
seven
or
more
are
permitted
with
a
conditional
use
permit
in
all
residential
zones
and
the
CR
zone.
Furthermore,
senior
group
homes
of
six
or
fewer
are
permitted
in
all
residential
zones.
Senior
homes
of
more
than
six
are
permitted
subject
to
a
CUP
in
the
RMH,
RH,
and
CR
zones.
The
Zoning
Code
also
includes
provisions
for
the
reduction
of
parking
requirements
for
affordable,
senior
and
special
needs
housing,
including
senior
and/or
group
homes,
if
a
project
proponent
can
demonstrate
a
reduced
need
for
parking.
The
City
also
enforces
ADA
standards
for
the
number
of
parking
spaces
required
for
persons
with
disabilities.
There
are
no
conditions
or
requirements
imposed
for
group
homes
that
would
affect
the
development
or
conversion
of
residences
to
meet
the
needs
of
persons
with
disabilities.
With
the
exception
of
the
minimum
age
requirement
established
by
the
federal
government,
the
conditions
for
senior
housing
in
both
residential
and
nonresidential
zones
do
not
affect
the
development
of
housing
for
persons
with
disabilities.
There
are
no
minimum
distance
standards
between
two
or
more
special
needs
housing
developments.
The
City
of
La
Quinta
has
adopted
the
2010
California
Building
Code,
as
well
as
the
2010
California
Mechanical,
Electrical,
Energy,
Fire,
Residential,
Green
and
Plumbing
Codes.
No
amendments
have
been
made
to
the
codes
that
would
diminish
the
ability
to
accommodate
persons
with
disabilities.
Starting
in
2014,
the
City
will
begin
enforcing
the
respective
2013
Codes.
There
are
no
restrictions
on
requests
for
retrofitting
of
homes
for
accessibility,
such
as
ramps
and
handrails.
Requests
for
such
retrofits
are
handled
as
any
other
minor
improvement
to
a
home
necessitating
a
building
permit,
with
the
exception
that
the
design
must
meet
all
applicable
standards
and
ADA
requirements,
and
is
reviewed
at
the
inspection
phase
for
conformance
to
construction
requirements.
Although
requests
for
retrofit
of
existing
homes
have
been
extremely
limited
in
the
past
few
years,
a
number
of
homes
advertised
for
resale
in
the
Cove
area
have
been
retrofitted
or
built
specifically
for
persons
with
physical
disabilities
and
are
described
as
such.
HOUSING
II-‐305
The
public
review
process
for
the
approval
of
group
or
senior
homes
is
no
different
from
any
other
permitted
use
in
the
applicable
zone.
Where
a
group
or
senior
home
is
permitted
by
right,
no
public
hearing
is
required.
The
project
is
brought
to
the
Planning
Commission
if
a
CUP
is
required,
and
is
subject
to
consideration
and
approval
as
any
other
use
permitted
by
CUP.
Where
a
senior
group
home
may
be
requested
with
a
CUP
as
part
of
a
specific
plan
,
the
use
would
be
considered
and
approved
within
the
established
public
hearing
process
as
part
of
the
total
specific
plan
and
subject
to
the
applicable
Zoning
Code
provisions.
Environmental
and
Infrastructure
Constraints
Development
of
new
housing
in
La
Quinta
will
continue
to
take
place
both
north
and
south
of
Highway
111.
Public
services
and
infrastructure
are
being
upgraded
and
expanded
within
the
City.
Major
flood
control
programs
have
been
funded
by
the
City
and
constructed
by
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
(CVWD)
for
the
protection
of
the
Cove
Area.
In
response
to
growth,
Desert
Sands
and
Coachella
Valley
Unified
School
Districts
operate
several
elementary
schools,
middle
schools,
and
high
schools
that
serve
La
Quinta
residents.
Three
Riverside
County
Fire
Department
stations
serve
the
City.
The
potable
water
system
in
the
City
is
operated
and
administered
by
CVWD.
The
sanitary
sewage
collection
and
treatment
system
in
the
City
is
operated
and
administered
by
CVWD,
which
extends
service
based
upon
approved
designs
and
improvements
constructed
by
the
private
developer.
The
City
of
La
Quinta
is
served
by
Southern
California
Gas
Company.
The
Southern
California
Gas
Company
has
indicated
that
the
future
supply
of
natural
gas
will
meet
demand
generated
by
additional
development
in
the
City.
Major
infrastructure
improvements,
including
full-‐width
streets,
water
and
sewer
mains,
and
stormwater
systems,
are
the
responsibility
of
the
developer
to
install
with
any
development.
Developers
are
required
to
provide
parks
or
in-‐lieu
fees
as
part
of
a
residential
development.
When
infrastructure
improvements
are
made
that
benefit
other
properties,
the
subdivider
is
reimbursed
from
the
area
fund
when
other
properties
in
the
area
are
developed.
HOUSING
II-‐306
Opportunities
for
Energy
Conservation
The
City
has
adopted
a
comprehensive
Green
and
Sustainable
La
Quinta
Program
to
enhance
the
City’s
conservation
of
resources
and
to
reduce
environmental
impacts
of
existing
and
future
conditions.
This
program
will
allow
the
City
to
consider
a
wide
range
of
programs
that
will
address
energy,
water,
air
quality,
solid
waste,
land
use,
and
transportation.
Current
Regulations
and
Programs
Title
24
Regulations
On
a
regulatory
level,
the
City
enforces
the
State
Energy
Conservation
Standards
(Title
24,
California
Code
of
Regulations).
These
standards
incorporated
into
the
City’s
Building
Code
provide
a
great
deal
of
flexibility
for
individual
builders
to
achieve
a
minimum
“energy
budget”
through
the
use
of
various
performance
standards.
These
requirements
apply
to
all
new
residential
and
commercial
construction
as
well
as
remodeling
and
rehabilitation
construction
where
square
footage
is
added.
Compliance
with
Title
24
on
the
use
of
energy-‐
efficient
appliances
and
insulation
has
reduced
energy
demand
stemming
from
new
residential
development.
Green
Building
Programs
The
two
most
prominent
green
building
programs
are
California
Green
Builder,
sponsored
by
the
California
Building
Industry
Association,
and
Leadership
in
Energy
and
Environmental
Design
(LEED),
which
is
sponsored
by
the
US
Green
Building
Council.
Both
programs
involve
a
third-‐party
certification
process,
have
different
environmental
goals,
and
apply
to
different
types
of
development.
Green
Builder
is
a
voluntary
environmental
building
and
certification
program
for
residential
construction.
Certified
homes
will
incorporate
water-‐efficient
landscaping
and
fixtures,
utilize
high
efficiency
insulation
and
ventilation
systems,
contain
environmentally
sound
building
materials,
initiate
waste
reduction
methods
during
construction,
and
be
15
percent
over
existing
Title
24
energy
efficiency
standards.
Green
Builder
has
an
existing
partnership
with
Imperial
Irrigation
District
(IID)
and
Burrtec
Waste
and
Recycling
Services
(Burrtec)
for
builder
and
homeowner
incentives.
IID
provides
efficiency
diagnostics,
inspections,
and
a
certification,
which
lead
to
financial
incentives;
and
Burrtec
provides
a
15
percent–30
percent
discount
to
builders
for
bin
removal
services.
HOUSING
II-‐307
LEED
is
a
national
rating
system
for
green
buildings.
Primarily
focused
on
commercial
and
multifamily
residential
projects,
LEED
requires
the
developer
to
register
their
project
with
the
US
Green
Building
Council,
who
in
turn
reviews
the
project
for
conformance
and
assigns
points
based
upon
various
efficiency,
materials
quality,
and
design
factors.
Once
the
Council
has
reviewed
the
project,
it
issues
a
certification
based
upon
the
number
of
points
achieved
in
each
category.
City
Projects
The
City
has
undertaken
an
aggressive
series
of
green
building
programs
that
demonstrate
the
opportunities
available
to
reduce
the
overall
environmental
impact
of
new
developments.
The
Title
24
energy
efficiency
requirements
significantly
increase
the
overall
energy
efficiency
of
all
new
construction.
Vista
Dunes
Courtyard
Homes
Located
at
78-‐990
Miles
Avenue
(just
west
of
Adams
Street),
the
Vista
Dunes
project
consists
of
80
courtyard-‐oriented
single-‐family
and
duplex
homes.
This
LEED
Platinum
certified
development
includes
photovoltaic
cells
to
generate
electrical
power.
This
feature
will
annually
save
$720
per
unit
in
electric
utility
costs.
Water
saving
improvements
will
reduce
water
usage
by
1,900,000
gallons
per
year
for
the
entire
project.
It
is
estimated
that
this
project
exceeds
Title
24
by
28
percent.
Some
of
the
units
will
exceed
Title
24
requirements
by
30
percent
or
more.
At
the
time
of
its
development,
Vista
Dunes
Courtyard
Homes
was
the
first
LEED
Platinum
certified
multifamily
affordable
housing
development
of
its
size
in
the
country.
The
City
maintains
a
photographic
history
of
the
project
and
produced
a
video
for
educational
purposes.
Further,
tenants
will
be
educated
on
energy
efficiencies
through
written
materials,
a
DVD
and
the
project
operator,
CORE
Housing
Management.
Wolff
Waters
Place
Housing
Project
This
development
exceeds
Title
24
requirements
by
24
percent
and
will
save
approximately
2,000,000
gallons
of
water
from
interior
water
use
alone.
Compliance
with
the
new
CVWD
Ordinance
will
further
reduce
exterior
water
use.
HOUSING
II-‐308
The
project
is
LEED
certified
and
includes
solar
hot
water
for
laundry
buildings,
a
transit
friendly
location
with
a
bus
stop
and
shopping
within
walking
distance,
low-‐water-‐use
landscape
and
irrigation,
dual
flush
toilets,
low-‐flow
water
fixtures,
energy-‐efficient
lights,
ENERGY
STAR
appliances,
recycled
building
materials,
paint
with
low
volatile
organic
compounds,
reduced
construction
waste,
advanced
indoor
air
handling
systems,
underground
parking,
high
efficiency
air
conditioning
units,
and
a
tenant
training
program.
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan
In
conjunction
with
the
adoption
of
its
2013
General
Plan,
the
City
adopted
a
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan.
The
Plan
provides
residents,
business
owners
and
land
owners
with
a
broad
range
of
measures
designed
to
reduce
energy
use
and
the
use
of
fossil
fuels.
The
Plan
will
be
effective
in
reducing
costs
for
existing
homes
and
for
new
residential
development.
It
will
also
allow
changes
in
driving
patterns,
transit
use
and
other
measures
that
will
reduce
the
City’s
dependence
on
traditional
energy
sources.
Future
City
Programs/Actions
The
City
seeks
to
encourage
and
enforce
regulations
or
incentives
that
do
not
serve
as
constraints
to
the
development
or
rehabilitation
of
housing.
The
City
should
focus
on
measures
and
techniques
that
assist
the
occupant
in
reducing
energy
costs,
thereby
increasing
the
amount
of
income
that
can
be
spent
on
housing,
child
care,
health
care,
or
other
necessary
costs.
The
implementation
of
a
formal
Green
and
Sustainable
La
Quinta
Program
will
require
participation
of
many
city
departments
and
agencies.
Program
costs
could
include
energy
audit
upgrades
for
existing
facilities
and
buildings,
irrigation
and
landscape
modifications
to
City-‐maintained
properties,
City
fleet
vehicles,
and
City
maintenance
equipment.
The
City’s
2013
General
Plan
includes
a
Livable
Community
Element
that
provides
direction
on
building
siting,
mixed
use
site
planning,
and
energy
reduction
techniques.
The
element
also
includes
a
suite
of
policies
and
programs
designed
to
lower
energy
costs,
promote
healthy
living,
and
encourage
high
quality
design.
Under
the
direction
of
the
City
Manager’s
Office,
Community
Development
and
Community
Services
Department
staff
play
an
instrumental
role
in
educating
the
community
on
water
conservation
programs
and
resources.
HOUSING
II-‐309
Energy
Conservation
Partners
In
developing
a
better
La
Quinta
the
City
cannot
be
successful
without
a
sound
relationship
with
Coachella
Valley
Water
District,
Imperial
Irrigation
District,
Southern
California
Gas,
Burrtec
Waste
and
Recycling
Services,
Sunline
Transit
District,
Coachella
Valley
Association
of
Governments,
SCAG,
and
other
entities.
Additionally,
many
of
the
areas
of
concern,
such
as
air
quality
and
regional
transportation,
cannot
be
addressed
without
strong
regional,
state
and
federal
programs.
Utility
Programs
The
City
of
La
Quinta
has
a
strong
working
relationship
with
the
Imperial
Irrigation
District
(IID).
IID
is
proactive
in
creating
energy
savings
via
conservation
programs,
product
rebates,
and
general
tips.
IID
indicates
that
an
average
home
owner
can
reduce
energy
use
by
10
percent
more
by
taking
advantage
of
IID
programs.
IID
offers
rebate
programs
on
the
purchase
of
higher
efficiency
air
conditioning
units,the
purchase
of
high
efficiency
refrigerators,
and
programmable
thermostats.
Additionally,
product
rebates
are
offered
on
ENERGY
STAR
equipment
such
as
home
and
office
electronics.
IID
also
offers
free
in-‐home
energy
audits
to
its
residential
customers.
IID
also
provides
commercial
programs
such
as
audits
for
both
older
facilities
and
new
construction;
for
new
construction,
IID
offers
design
assistance.
Rebate
programs
have
been
offered
for
solar
panels
and
energy-‐efficient
motors.
HOUSING
II-‐310
HOUSING
RESOURCES
The
City’s
RHNA
is
364
units
for
the
2014–2021
planning
period.
The
RHNA
includes
housing
planning
goals
for
four
different
income
and
affordability
levels:
very
low,
low,
moderate,
and
above
moderate.
The
City’s
RHNA
by
affordability
level
is
91
units
of
housing
affordable
to
very
low
income
households,
61
affordable
for
low
income
households,
66
affordable
for
moderate
income
households,
and
146
above
moderate
income
units.
California
housing
element
law
allows
local
governments
to
obtain
credit
toward
its
RHNA
housing
goals
in
three
ways:
constructed
and
approved
units,
vacant
and
underutilized
land,
and
the
preservation
of
existing
affordable
housing.
The
City
will
rely
on
the
construction
of
new
units
on
vacant
lands
to
meet
its
housing
needs
between
2014
and
2021.
Constructed
and
Approved
Housing
Units
During
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period,
the
City
anticipates
the
rehabilitation
and
expansion
of
the
Washington
Street
apartments.
This
project,
which
currently
provides
72
affordable
housing
units,
is
planned
to
expand
by
constructing
an
additional
68
units
affordable
to
very
low
income
seniors.
Of
these
68
units,
26
are
planned
for
extremely
low
income
households.
The
project
has
been
entitled,
and
is
securing
tax
credit
financing
in
2013.
Construction
is
expected
to
begin
in
2014.
Coral
Mountain
Apartments
consists
of
176
units,
of
which
36
are
proposed
to
be
affordable
to
very
low
income
households,
138
to
low
income
households,
and
2
units
will
be
affordable
to
moderate
income
households.
The
apartments
will
be
completed
in
2014,
early
in
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
With
the
construction
of
these
two
projects,
the
City
will
meet
all
of
its
RHNA
requirements
for
very
low
and
low
income
households.
The
projects
will
result
in
the
construction
of
104
very
low
income
units
(13
more
than
the
RHNA),
and
138
low
income
units
(72
more
than
the
RHNA).
As
discussed
earlier
in
this
Element,
current
conditions
in
the
real
estate
market
make
it
possible
for
a
moderate
income
household
to
afford
market
rate
housing.
Further,
the
rental
market
offers
a
broad
range
of
units
at
rental
rates
of
up
to
$1,285
per
month.
Table
II-‐59
HOUSING
II-‐311
demonstrates
the
affordability
of
market
rate
rentals
and
home
purchases
in
La
Quinta
for
a
moderate
income
four
person
household.
Table
II-‐59
Affordability
of
Housing
2013
Ownership
Rental
Median
Existing
Single
Family
Purchase
Price
$330,000
N/A
Mortgage
Costs
(PITI)
$1,762
N/A
Rental
Rate
N/A
$1,285
30%
of
Moderate
Household
Income
$1,950
$1,950
Affordability
Gap/Overage
$188
$665
As
shown
in
the
table,
the
rental
and
resale
market
can
accommodate
some
of
the
City’s
expected
moderate
income
households
during
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Altogether,
the
City
has
a
moderate
income
RHNA
of
66.
Two
units
will
be
available
for
moderate
income
households
at
the
Coral
Mountain
Apartments,
and
market
rate
rentals
and
resales
will
likely
address
the
remaining
need.
The
City
had
a
vacant
rental
and
ownership
inventory
of
1,660
units
(see
Table
II-‐12)
in
2010.
The
DOF
estimates
a
similar
vacancy
rate
in
2013.
There
is
therefore
considerable
inventory
available
to
meet
the
City’s
moderate
and
above
moderate
income
RHNA
of
180
units.
The
inventory
of
sites
includes
additional
parcels
(see
below)
that
could
accommodate
moderate
income
housing.
With
the
elimination
of
Redevelopment
by
the
State,
the
City’s
ability
to
provide
affordable
housing
in
the
future
has
essentially
been
eliminated.
Given
the
City’s
active
participation
in
affordable
housing
projects,
this
loss
will
be
difficult
to
fill.
The
affordable
housing
needs
of
the
community
will
forcibly
require
third
party
investment,
whether
from
governmental
or
private
sector
sources.
HOUSING
II-‐312
Table
II-‐60
Constructed,
Approved,
and
Pending
Residential
Projects
Project
Very
Low
Low
Moderate
Above
Moderate
Total
Market
Rate
Projects
Above
Moderate
Income
Projects
1
0
0
0
4,752
4,752
Income-‐Restricted
Projects
Coral
Mountain
Apartments
36
138
2
0
176
Washington
Street
Apartments
2
68
0
0
0
68
Total
Constructed/Approved
Projects
104
138
2
4,752
4,996
2006–2014
RHNA
91
61
66
146
364
Balance
of
RHNA
Allocation
(13)
(77)
64
(4,683)
64
Source:
SCAG
RHNA,
City
of
La
Quinta
1
Based
on
vacant
land
available
in
the
Low
Density
Residential
General
Plan
category.
2
The
units
shown
are
new
units
and
are
in
addition
to
72
existing
units
that
will
be
rehabilitated
as
a
part
of
the
project.
Available
Land
for
Housing
With
the
previously
described
housing
production
credits,
the
City
of
La
Quinta
has
a
remaining
unmet
RHNA
of
64
units
for
moderate
income
households.
The
Housing
Element
must
identify
available
sites
within
the
City
that
can
accommodate
the
remaining
unmet
RHNA.
The
land
inventory
includes
an
analysis
of
the
realistic
capacity
of
the
sites.
An
evaluation
of
zoning,
densities,
market
demand,
record
of
affordable
housing
development,
and
financial
feasibility
will
establish
the
ability
of
available
sites
to
provide
housing
for
all
income
levels.
Available
Vacant
Land
The
vacant
land
inventory
only
includes
parcels
that
the
City
has
identified
as
having
the
potential
to
develop
during
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Additional
vacant
sites
are
located
in
the
City,
but
are
not
assumed
to
have
the
potential
to
satisfy
the
current
RHNA.
The
development
potential
for
Village
Commercial
(VC)
sites
is
assumed
to
be
improved
through
logical
consolidation
with
adjacent
vacant
lots.
The
City
will
encourage
and
facilitate
lot
consolidation
in
this
district
through
incentives
provided
in
Programs
1.5
and
3.5.
The
City’s
flexible
HOUSING
II-‐313
development
and
use
standards
further
facilitate
the
development
of
a
range
of
housing
types.
Table
II-‐61
provide
a
summary
and
illustration
of
the
vacant
land
development
potential
within
the
City.
All
these
sites
were
included
in
the
City’s
inventory
for
the
2006-‐2013
planning
period,
but
were
not
utilized.
Table
II-‐61
Vacant
Land
Inventory
Map
Key
Owner
APN
Acres
Existing
GP/Zoning
Projected
Density
Projected
Yield
RMH
Sites
14.0
280
1
1
AH
646-‐
070-‐013
14.0
DR/RMH(AH
O)
20
280
Village
Sites
2a
X
770-‐122-‐
015
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
2b
Y
770-‐122-‐
014
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
2c
Y
770-‐122-‐
013
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
2d
Z
770-‐122-‐
012
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
2e
Z
770-‐122-‐
011
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
2f
Z
770-‐122-‐
010
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
2g
AA
770-‐122-‐
009
0.1
VC/VC
14
2
Site
2
Subtotal
0.
5
8
3a
AB
770-‐152-‐
005
0.1
VC/VC
14
2
3b
AB
770-‐152-‐
006
0.1
VC/VC
14
2
3c
AC
770-‐152-‐
007
0.1
VC/VC
14
2
Site
3
Subtotal
0.34
6
4
AD
770-‐155-‐
001
0.40
VC/VC
14
6
5a
AE
770-‐156-‐
007
0.23
VC/VC
14
3
5b
AF
770-‐156-‐
006
0.28
VC/VC
14
4
5c
AG
770-‐156-‐
010
0.39
VC/VC
14
5
5d
AG
770-‐181-‐0.36
VC/VC
14
5
HOUSING
II-‐314
Table
II-‐61
Vacant
Land
Inventory
Map
Key
Owner
APN
Acres
Existing
GP/Zoning
Projected
Density
Projected
Yield
009
Site
5
Subtotal
1.26
18
6a
M
73-‐101-‐013
0.7
VC/VC
14
10
6b
N
773-‐094-‐
013
0.6
VC/VC
14
8
6c
N
773-‐094-‐
004
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
6d
N
773-‐094-‐
003
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
6e
N
773-‐094-‐
002
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
6f
N
773-‐094-‐
001
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
Site
6
Subtotal
1.6
24
7a
O
73-‐072-‐019
0.3
VC/VC
14
5
7b
P
773-‐072-‐
005
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
7c
P
773-‐072-‐
027
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
7d
P
773-‐072-‐
026
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
7e
P
773-‐072-‐
025
0.1
VC/VC
14
2
7f
P
773-‐072-‐
024
0.1
VC/VC
14
2
7g
P
773-‐072-‐
023
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
7h
P
773-‐072-‐
022
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
7i
P
73-‐072-‐021
0.1
VC/VC
14
1
7j
Q
773-‐073-‐
004
0.1
VC/VC
14
2
7k
R
773-‐073-‐
005
0.1
VC/VC
14
2
7l
S
773-‐075-‐
008
0.1
VC/VC
14
2
7m
S
773-‐075-‐
009
0.1
VC/VC
14
2
7n
T
73-‐077-‐014
0.8
VC/VC
14
11
7o
M
73-‐077-‐013
0.4
VC/VC
14
5
Site
7
Subtotal
2.7
38
8a
U
773-‐078-‐
005
0.1
VC/VC
14
2
8b
V
773-‐078-‐
006
0.1
VC/VC
14
2
8c
V
773-‐078-‐0.1
VC/VC
14
2
HOUSING
II-‐315
Table
II-‐61
Vacant
Land
Inventory
Map
Key
Owner
APN
Acres
Existing
GP/Zoning
Projected
Density
Projected
Yield
007
8d
W
773-‐078-‐
016
0.1
VC/VC
14
2
8e
W
773-‐078-‐
017
0.1
VC/VC
14
2
Site
8
Subtotal
0.6
8
Total
All
Sites
21.4
388
Site
Adequacy
Analysis
The
sites
shown
in
Table
II-‐43,
above,
all
accommodate
residential
development
at
various
densities.
Site
1
is
residentially
designated,
and
benefits
from
the
Affordable
Housing
Overlay,
which
increases
its
density
potential
(please
see
below).
During
the
previous
planning
period,
residential
development
in
La
Quinta
was
built
at
or
near
the
maximum
allowable
densities.
For
example,
development
in
the
RM
zone
generally
occurred
at
the
maximum
density
of
8
units
per
acre
or
above
through
density
bonus
provisions.
Centerpointe,
an
approved
224-‐unit
project
will
be
built
at
densities
of
7.6
units
per
acre
in
the
RM
zone.
Older
examples
include
the
Miraflores
Apartments,
which
were
constructed
at
a
density
of
11.2
units
per
acre
in
the
RM
zone
in
2003.
In
2004,
Hadley
Villas
Apartments
were
developed
at
a
density
of
7.8
units
per
acre
in
the
RM
zone.
In
2001,
the
Aventine
Apartments
were
constructed
at
a
density
of
14.3
units
per
acre
in
the
RH
zone.
In
2004
Silverhawk
Apartments
were
constructed
in
the
VC
zone—which
currently
permits
residential
projects
up
to
16
units
per
acre,
with
the
potential
for
24
units
per
acre
if
the
Affordable
Housing
Overlay
is
applied—at
a
density
of
19.3
units
per
acre
under
density
bonus
provisions.
The
Silverhawk
project
provides
214
units,
14
of
which
are
located
above
9,435
square
feet
of
retail
space.
Restricted-‐affordable
projects
such
as
Wolff
Waters
Place
was
built
at
14.7
units
per
acre.
Although
the
Washington
Street
Apartments
expansion
and
Coral
Mountain
Apartments
construction
will
exceed
the
City’s
RHNA
for
very
low
and
low
income
households,
and
current
economic
conditions
allow
moderate
income
households
to
afford
market
rate
rental
and
resale
properties,,
additional
sites
have
been
identified
to
increase
residential
development
potential.
HOUSING
II-‐316
Based
on
these
existing
development
trends,
vacant
sites
are
assumed
to
build
out
at
densities
near
or
at
the
maximum
density
permitted
in
each
zone
during
the
planning
period.
Unit
yield
projections
for
vacant
sites
do
not
include
a
density
bonus
or
second
units.
Environment
and
Infrastructure
Analysis
None
of
the
parcels
identified
in
the
vacant
land
inventory
are
located
in
areas
of
topographic
constraint
or
have
known
environmental
hazards.
The
sites
identified
in
the
vacant
land
inventory
are
adjacent
to
existing
urbanized
development
and
are
within
service
hook-‐up
distance
of
existing
water
and
sewer
systems.
According
to
the
latest
Coachella
Valley
Water
Management
Plan
(2002),
the
implementation
of
water
conservation,
groundwater
recharge,
and
water
source
substitution
management
strategies
will
ensure
that
adequate
water
resources
are
available
to
existing
and
future
residents
of
La
Quinta.
Capacity
Analysis
The
City
will
meet
its
RHNA
for
very
low
and
low
income
households
with
the
construction
of
the
Washington
Street
Apartment
expansion
and
the
Coral
Mountain
Apartments.
Further,
the
Coral
Canyon
Apartments
will
provide
two
units
for
moderate
income
households.
This
leaves
a
RHNA
need
of
64
units
for
moderate
income
households.
As
described
above,
the
median
sales
price
for
a
resale
home
was
approximately
$330,000
and
the
highest
rent
for
an
apartment
unit
was
approximately
$1,285
per
month.
In
comparison,
the
maximum
affordable
sales
price
for
a
moderate
income
family
of
four
is
$328,900
and
the
maximum
affordable
rent
for
a
moderate
income
couple
is
$1,560
per
month.
Moderate
income
households,
therefore,
can
afford
to
rent
in
the
City,
and
are
able
to
afford
purchasing
resale
homes
that
are
lower
than
the
median
price
currently.
Some
moderate
income
households,
especially
one
and
two
person
households
or
larger
families,
will
need
assistance
to
purchase
a
home.
The
subsidy
can
be
provided
by
affordable
housing
developers,
which
have
constructed
thousands
of
affordable
units
in
La
Quinta
and
the
Coachella
Valley
in
the
past.
Affordable
housing
developers
often
have
access
to
government
funds,
grants,
and
tax
subsidies
that
market-‐rate
developers
do
not.
Additionally,
affordable
housing
developers
are
driven
by
the
goal
of
providing
affordable
housing
rather
than
maximizing
profit.
Affordable
housing
developers
still,
however,
seek
a
lower
internal
rate-‐of-‐return.
HOUSING
II-‐317
General
proforma
analyses
were
conducted
using
land
costs
($75,000–
$150,000
per
acre
outside
of
the
City’s
developed
center
and
approximately
$1
million
in
the
Village
area)
and
construction
costs
($150
per
square
foot
according
to
affordable
housing
developers
contacted
in
the
preparation
of
this
Update)
to
estimate
the
capacity
of
land
in
La
Quinta
to
support
affordable
housing.
The
results
indicate
that
homeownership
products
will
remain
available
to
moderate
income
households
without
a
very
large
subsidy.
The
developers
of
ownership
projects
require
financial
returns
through
the
one-‐time
sale
of
the
housing
units.
A
generally
accepted
minimum
project
size
for
affordable
housing
development
is
50
units.
Like
their
higher
density
counterparts,
lower
density
sites
able
to
accommodate
50
units
are
eligible
for
funding
mechanisms
such
as
Low
Income
Housing
Tax
Credits
(LIHTCs),
a
type
of
restricted
development
that
must
meet
strict
size
and
amenity
guidelines
to
compete
for
funding.
High
density
is
also
not
a
determining
factor
in
obtaining
other
resources,
such
as
HOME
funds
and
Community
Development
Block
Grant
program
funding.
The
RM
and
RMH
sites
identified
in
Table
II-‐61
above,
would
both
allow
a
minimum
project
size
consistent
with
these
requirements.
Financial
and
Regulatory
Subsidies
A
subsidy
can
be
financial
or
regulatory
in
nature.
Financial
subsidies
are
found
in
federal,
state,
local,
and
private
programs
and
organizations
focused
on
the
production
of
affordable
housing.
Developers
in
La
Quinta
use
and
leverage
many
sources
of
financial
assistance.
Projects
may
seek
funding
from
Low
Income
Housing
Tax
Credits,
tax-‐exempt
bonds,
Community
Development
Block
Grants,
HOME
funds,
other
HUD
grant
programs,
and
commercial
banking
resources.
Regulatory
subsidies
can
take
many
forms,
including
fee
waivers
or
deferrals,
flexible
development
standards,
and
increased
densities.
Higher
densities
generally
increase
the
financial
feasibility
of
a
residential
project
as
a
developer
is
able
to
sell
more
housing
units
on
the
same
amount
and
cost
of
land
(even
with
slightly
lower
sales
prices
associated
with
smaller,
attached
units).
The
City’s
vision
recognizes
the
importance
of
providing
affordable
housing
for
its
residents
and
employees.
Accordingly,
the
City
supports
affordable
housing
development
through
financial
and
regulatory
subsidies
and
permits
densities
up
to
24
units
per
acre
with
the
HOUSING
II-‐318
Affordable
Housing
Overlay
(higher
densities
are
permitted
through
density
bonus
provisions).
The
City
is
thereby
able
to
achieve
both
the
goal
of
maintaining
lower
density
community
character
while
also
producing
its
fair
share
of
affordable
housing.
Vacant
Land
Opportunities
In
the
last
decade
the
City
has
established
a
strong
record
of
providing
assistance
to
affordable
multifamily
housing
projects
(townhomes
and
apartments),
ranging
in
density
from
7.8
to
over
20
units
per
acre.
Single-‐family
detached
assisted
housing
was
also
developed,
with
City
assistance,
at
densities
as
low
as
4.4
units
per
acre
and
up
to
7.8
units
per
acre.
La
Quinta
is
able
to
achieve
market-‐driven
moderate
income
housing
through
the
relative
affordability
of
land,
the
local
market
demand
for
lower
maintenance
housing
types,
the
depressed
state
of
the
housing
market,
and
reasonable
development
impact
and
entitlement
fees.
La
Quinta
has
a
solid
record
of
working
with
local
nonprofits
and
affordable
housing
developers
to
accommodate
the
housing
needs
of
its
lower
income
residents.
The
vacant
land
inventory
provides
the
City
and
affordable
housing
developers
with
a
map
of
opportunity
areas.
The
moderate
income
housing
need
can
be
met
without
any
mixed-‐use
development.
However,
the
City
recognizes
that
mixed-‐use
developments
will
play
a
role
in
moderate
and
above
moderate
housing
opportunities
in
the
future.
Both
the
General
Plan
and
the
Zoning
Ordinance
have
been
modified
to
encourage
Mixed
Use
development.
Because
of
the
current
economy,
however,
there
has
been
no
such
development
proposal
constructed
in
the
City.
Mixed
Use
properties
are
therefore
not
included
in
this
inventory.
HOUSING
II-‐319
PRESERVATION
OF
AT
RISK
UNITS
State
Government
Code
requires
that
localities
identify
and
develop
a
program
for
their
Housing
Elements
for
the
preservation
of
affordable
multifamily
units
assisted
under
various
federal,
state
and
local
programs.
In
the
preservation
analysis,
localities
are
required
to
provide
an
inventory
of
assisted,
affordable
units
that
are
eligible
to
convert
to
market
rate
within
five
years
of
the
end
of
the
planning
period
(2026).
Income-‐restricted
housing
units
sometimes
change
to
market
rate
due
to
expiration
of
subsidies,
mortgage
prepayments,
or
expiration
of
affordability
restrictions.
The
earliest
possible
date
of
conversion
for
any
of
the
City’s
restricted
multifamily
housing
stock
is
2024
for
the
45
very
low
and
46
low
income
units
at
Seasons
Senior
Apartments.
An
inventory
of
all
assisted
multifamily
projects
is
provided
in
Table
II-‐62.
Table
II-‐62
Assisted
Multifamily
Project
Inventory
Project
Earliest
Date
of
Conversion
Very
Low
Low
Moderate
Above
Moderate
Total
Aventine
Apartments
2056
0
10
10
180
200
Hadley
Villas
Senior
Apartments
2059
81
0
0
0
81
Miraflores
Senior
Apartments
2029
35
83
0
0
118
Seasons
Senior
Apartments
2024
45
46
0
0
91
Vista
Dunes
Courtyard
Homes
2063
79
0
1
0
80
Washington
Street
Apartments
1
2066
72
0
0
0
72
Wolff
Waters
Place
2065
216
0
2
0
218
Total
N/A
528
139
88
305
1,060
Source:
City
of
La
Quinta
1
The
existing
73
units
will
be
rehabilitated.
Covenants
for
the
entire
project
will
run
for
55
years
(2066).
HOUSING
II-‐320
Maintenance
of
the
at-‐risk
housing
units
as
affordable
will
depend
largely
on
market
conditions,
the
status
of
HUD
renewals
of
Section
8
contracts,
and
the
attractiveness
of
financial
incentives,
if
warranted.
The
cost
to
replace
the
91
units
at
the
Seasons
Apartments
will
vary
based
on
the
timing
of
replacement
and
the
economic
conditions
in
the
region.
The
Building
Industry
Association
estimates
that
new
multiple-‐family
projects
cost
$125
to
$130
per
square
foot.
Using
the
average
square
footages
of
1,000
square
feet,
the
building
replacement
cost
would
be
$11.83
million
dollars.
Perhaps
the
most
effective
means
for
preserving
affordable
units
at
risk
of
conversion
to
market
rates
units
would
be
the
transfer
of
ownership.
A
nonprofit
housing
corporation
could
purchase
the
project,
rehabilitate
it
using
Low
Income
Housing
Tax
Credits,
and
then
extend
the
affordability
controls.
Qualified
entities
who
could
take
on
these
projects
include
Habitat
for
Humanity
and
the
Coachella
Valley
Housing
Coalition,
both
of
whom
have
been
actively
participating
in
affordable
housing
projects
in
the
City.
The
City
could
facilitate
this
effort
through
a
reduction
in
building
permit
fees,
impact
fees,
or
other
indirect
assistance.
However,
because
of
the
elimination
of
redevelopment,
the
City
will
be
unable
to
consider
the
purchase
of
these
properties,
and
will
have
to
rely
on
third
party
private
sector
involvement
for
the
preservation
of
these
units.
Program
H-‐2.3.c
addresses
the
preservation
of
these
units.
HOUSING
II-‐321
GOALS,
POLICIES,
AND
PROGRAMS
The
following
goals,
policies,
and
programs
set
forth
a
comprehensive
housing
plan
for
the
City
of
La
Quinta
during
the
2014-‐2021
planning
period.
Adequate
Sites
for
Housing
GOAL
H-‐1
Provide
housing
opportunities
that
meet
the
diverse
needs
of
the
City’s
existing
and
projected
population.
v 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.
Program
1.1.a:
To
address
the
City’s
RHNA
allocation
for
extremely
low
income
households,
26
of
the
68
new
units
at
the
Washington
Street
Apartments
will
be
designated
for
extremely
low
income
households.
The
additional
19
units
identified
in
the
RHNA
will
be
given
priority
either
at
Washington
Street
Apartments,
or
at
projects
on
sites
identified
in
the
Vacant
Land
Inventory
(Table
II-‐43).
§ Objective:
Encourage
the
provision
of
45
extremely
low
income
units
in
new
projects
during
the
planning
period.
§ Timing:
2015
for
26
units,
2015-‐2021
as
projects
are
constructed
for
19
units
§ Funding
Source:
Private
Funding,
Tax
Credit
Financing,
Other
sources
as
identified
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
v 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.
v 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.
HOUSING
II-‐322
Assist
in
the
Development
of
Affordable
Housing
GOAL
H-‐2
Assist
in
the
creation
and
provision
of
resources
to
support
housing
for
lower
and
moderate
income
households.
v Policy
H-‐2.1
Increase
housing
choices
for
lower
and
moderate
income
households.
v Policy
H-‐2.2
Support
public,
private,
and
nonprofit
efforts
in
the
development
of
affordable
housing.
v Policy
H-‐2.3
Pursue
a
variety
of
forms
of
private,
local,
state,
and
federal
assistance
to
support
development
of
affordable
housing.
Program
H-‐2.3.a:
Collaborative
Partnerships
The
City
shall
meet
with
parties
interested
in
affordable
housing
development
to
discuss
types
of
incentives
available
and
requirements
for
obtaining
assistance,
discuss
appropriate
sites
for
affordable
housing,
and
foster
professional
collaboration
between
the
City
and
affordable
housing
stakeholders.
§ Objective:
Continue
to
collaborate
with
nonprofits
and
the
development
community
to
develop
affordable
housing.
§ Timing:
Project-‐by-‐project
basis,
by
request,
or
on
an
annual
basis.
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Community
Development
Department
Program
H-‐2.3.b:
Affordable
Housing
Renter-‐to-‐Owner
Transition
Low
Income
Housing
Tax
Credit
(LIHTC)
provides
federal
tax
credits
for
private
developers
and
investors
that
agree
to
set
aside
all
or
a
portion
of
their
units
for
low
income
households.
LIHTC
projects
can
transition
from
rental
to
ownership
units.
The
units
must
remain
rentals
for
15
years,
at
which
time
some
projects
convert
to
ownership
units.
Typically
a
portion
or
all
of
the
rent
paid
for
the
5
years
prior
to
the
conversion
is
put
toward
the
purchase
of
the
unit.
This
enables
lower
income
households
to
invest
in
the
property
in
which
they
have
been
living
and
benefit
from
its
appreciation.
HOUSING
II-‐323
Existing
stalled
condominium
and
townhome
projects
are
prime
opportunities
for
low
income
tax
credits
to
be
used
for
renter-‐
to-‐owner
programs.
§ Objective:
Investigate
the
use
of
LIHTCs
to
finance
affordable
single-‐family
attached
rental
development
that
can
transition,
after
15
years,
into
moderate
income
ownership
housing.
§ Timing:
Complete
study
by
end
of
fiscal
2015
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Community
Development
Department
Program
H-‐2.3.c:
Affordable
Housing
Renter-‐to-‐Owner
Transition
There
are
many
resources
that
the
City,
nonprofits,
or
for-‐profit
developers
may
utilize
to
subsidize
the
construction
and
maintenance
of
affordable
housing.
Some
of
the
most
prominent
resources
are
described
below.
§ Objective:
Advertise
other
financial
resources
through
the
affordable
housing
page
of
the
City’s
website,
apply
for
grants
and
competitive
loans,
and
form
partnerships
with
the
development
community
to
obtain
additional
financial
resources.
§ Timing:
Update
website
with
funding
information
and
partnership
opportunities
every
six
months
or
earlier
if
appropriate.
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Community
Development
Department
Low
Income
Tax
Credits
Low
Income
Housing
Tax
Credit
(LIHTC)
provides
federal
tax
credits
for
private
developers
and
investors
that
agree
to
set
aside
all
or
a
portion
of
their
units
for
low
income
households.
A
minimum
of
20
percent
of
the
units
must
be
affordable
to
low
income
households
and
40
percent
of
the
units
must
be
affordable
to
moderate
income
households.
Community
Reinvestment
Act
The
Community
Reinvestment
Act
provides
favorable
financing
to
affordable
housing
developers.
The
Redevelopment
Agency,
development
community,
and
local,
regional,
and
national
banks
are
encouraged
to
work
together
to
meet
their
obligations
pursuant
to
the
Community
Reinvestment
Act.
HOUSING
II-‐324
California
Housing
Finance
Agency
Program
The
California
Housing
Finance
Agency
(CHFA)
has
three
single-‐
family
programs
for
primarily
moderate
and
middle
income
homebuyers:
the
Home
Ownership
Assistance
Program
and
the
Affordable
Housing
Partnership
Program.
Each
provides
permanent
mortgage
financing
for
first-‐time
homebuyers
at
below-‐market
interest
rates.
HOME
Funds
HOME
is
the
largest
Federal
block
grant
distributed
to
state
and
local
governments
for
the
creation
of
lower
income
housing.
Cities
apply
when
Notices
of
Funding
Availability
are
issued.
Neighborhood
Stabilization
Program
HUD’s
Neighborhood
Stabilization
Program
makes
emergency
assistance
grants
available
to
local
governments
for
the
acquisition,
redevelopment,
and
renting
or
resale
of
foreclosed
properties
at-‐risk
of
abandonment.
Riverside
County
First-‐Time
Homebuyers
Program
Continue
participation
in
the
Riverside
County
First-‐Time
Homebuyers
Program
for
low
and
moderate
income
households.
Mortgage
Credit
Certificate
The
Riverside
County
Mortgage
Credit
Certificate
Program
is
designed
to
assist
low
and
moderate
income
first
time
homebuyers.
Under
the
Mortgage
Credit
Certificate
Program,
first-‐time
homebuyers
receive
a
tax
credit
based
on
a
percentage
of
the
interest
paid
on
their
mortgage.
This
tax
credit
allows
the
buyer
to
qualify
more
easily
for
home
loans,
as
it
increases
the
effective
income
of
the
buyer.
Under
federal
legislation,
20
percent
of
the
funds
must
be
set
aside
for
buyers
with
incomes
between
75
and
80
percent
of
the
county
median
income.
Finance
Agency
Lease-‐Purchase
Program
Riverside/San
Bernardino
County
Housing
Finance
Agency
L ease
Purchase
Program
provides
down
payment
assistance
and
closing
costs
for
eligible
households
up
to
140
percent
of
the
area
median
income.
HOUSING
II-‐325
Housing
Choice
Voucher
(formerly
Section
8)
Referrals
Housing
Choice
Vouchers
allow
lower
income
households
to
use
rental
subsidies
anywhere
in
the
County,
including
La
Quinta.
Program
H-‐2.3.d:
Sweat
Equity
and
Shared
Equity
Sweat
equity
and
shared
equity
programs
provide
lower
and
moderate
income
households
with
ownership
assistance.
Sweat
equity
refers
to
the
exchange
of
time
and
effort,
usually
in
the
form
of
construction
activities,
for
an
affordable
ownership
opportunity.
§ Objective:
Continue
to
work
with
organizations
that
offer
sweat
and
shared
equity
housing
programs
to
lower
and
moderate
income
households
in
La
Quinta.
§ Timing:
Meet
with
organizations
annually
or
more
frequently
(if
requested
or
advantageous)
to
identify
opportunities
for
coordinated
efforts
or
potential
housing
projects.
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Community
Development
Department
Removal
of
Governmental
Constraints
to
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.
v Policy
H-‐3.1
Remove
unnecessary
regulatory
constraints
to
enable
the
construction
or
rehabilitation
of
housing
that
meets
the
needs
of
La
Quinta
residents,
including
lower
income
and
special
needs
residents.
v Policy
H-‐3.2
Coordinate
the
development
of
affordable
housing
with
the
provision
of
key
utilities
to
ensure
prompt
and
adequate
service.
v 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.
HOUSING
II-‐326
Program
H-‐3.3.a:
Priority
Water
and
Sewer
Service
In
compliance
with
state
law,
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
(CVWD)
must
create
procedures
to
provide
priority
water
and
sewer
service
to
lower
income
residential
project.
The
law
also
prohibits
the
denial
or
conditioning
the
approval
of
service
without
adequate
findings,
and
requires
future
water
management
plans
to
identify
projected
water
use
for
lower
income
residential
development.
§ Objective:
Route
the
adopted
Housing
Element
to
the
CVWD
and
notify
them
of
changes
and
future
updates
to
the
Housing
Element.
§ Timing:
Upon
Housing
Element
adoption
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Community
Development
Department
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.
§ 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:
Community
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
HOUSING
II-‐327
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:
Community
Development
Department
GOAL
H-‐4
Conserve
and
improve
the
quality
of
existing
La
Quinta
neighborhoods
and
individual
properties.
v Policy
H-‐4.1
Protect
the
quality
of
La
Quinta’s
neighborhoods
through
the
rehabilitation
of
both
affordable
and
market-‐rate
homes.
v Policy
H-‐4.2
Promote
financial
and
technical
assistance
to
lower
and
moderate
income
households
for
housing
maintenance
and
improvements.
v Policy
H-‐4.3
Encourage
the
retention
and
rehabilitation
of
existing
single-‐family
neighborhoods
and
mobile
home
parks
that
are
economically
and
physically
sound.
v Policy
H-‐4.4
Enhance
neighborhoods
that
presently
provide
affordable
housing
with
drainage,
lighting
and
landscape
amenities,
and
parks
and
recreation
areas.
Program
H-‐4.4.a:
Housing
Condition
Monitoring
To
better
understand
the
City’s
housing
needs
the
quality
and
condition
of
the
housing
stock
must
be
inventories
on
a
regular
basis.
The
inventory
should
focus
on
older
neighborhoods,
such
as
those
south
of
Calle
Tampico,
west
of
Washington
Street,
and
north
of
Highway
111.
§ Objective:
Maintain
an
inventory
of
housing
conditions
(updated
approximately
every
five
years)
to
enable
the
City
HOUSING
II-‐328
to
properly
target
Code
Compliance
and
rehabilitation
resources.
§ Timing:
Complete
by
June
30,
2014
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Community
Development
Department
Program
H-‐4.4.b:
County
of
Riverside
Senior
Residential
Rehabilitation
The
Minor
Senior
Home
Repair
program
allocates
grants
up
to
$250
per
year
for
lower
income
seniors
for
minor
housing
repairs,
such
as
painting
doors
or
trim,
or
repairing
a
window.
The
Enhanced
Senior
Home
Repair
Program
provides
major
rehabilitation
and
repair
for
low
income
seniors,
providing
a
one-‐time
grant
for
repairs
to
homes
owned
and
occupied
by
seniors
and/or
persons
with
disabilities.
The
maximum
level
of
assistance
for
this
program
is
$3,000
per
year.
§ Objective:
Continue
to
refer
code
violators
and
interested
parties
to
the
County
of
Riverside
Minor
and
Enhanced
Senior
Home
Repair
programs
and
other
local
resources.
Assist
homeowners
in
completing
applications
as
necessary.
§ Timing:
Throughout
planning
period,
on
a
case-‐by-‐case
basis
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Community
Development
Department
Program
H-‐4.4.c:
County
of
Riverside
Home
Repair
Grant
The
County
of
Riverside
Economic
Development
Agency
Home
Repair
Program
provides
lower
income
households
with
up
to
$6,000
for
home
repairs
such
as
a
new
roof,
new
air-‐
conditioner,
or
a
handicap
ramp.
As
a
jurisdiction
in
Riverside
County,
lower
income
La
Quinta
households
are
eligible
for
this
grant.
§ Objective:
Refer
code
violators
and
interested
parties
to
the
County
of
Riverside
for
home
repair
grants.
§ Timing:
Throughout
planning
period,
on
a
case-‐by-‐case
basis
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Community
Development
Department
Program
H-‐4.4.d:
Rehabilitation
Resources
List
Lower
and
moderate
income
homeowners
may
need
assistance
in
affording
important
home
repairs
and
improvements.
The
City
can
assist
these
households
by
compiling
and
sharing
a
HOUSING
II-‐329
listing
of
local,
state,
and
federal
programs
offering
rehabilitation
assistance.
§ Objective:
Provide
a
rehabilitation
resources
list
on
the
affordable
housing
and
code
compliance
pages
of
the
City’s
website.
Use
the
list,
in
online
or
printed
form,
as
a
reference
for
code
violators.
§ Timing:
Create
list
by
June
30,
2014
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Community
Development
Department
Equal
Housing
Opportunity
GOAL
H-‐5
Provide
equal
housing
opportunities
for
all
persons.
v Policy
5.1
Provide
the
regulatory
framework
to
create
an
environment
in
which
housing
opportunities
are
equal.
v Policy
5.2
Encourage
and
support
the
enforcement
of
laws
and
regulations
prohibiting
discrimination
in
lending
practices
and
in
the
sale
or
rental
of
housing.
v Policy
5.3
Encourage
support
services
for
the
Coachella
Valley’s
senior
and
homeless
populations
through
referrals
and
collaborative
efforts
with
non-‐profits
and
other
jurisdictions.
v Policy
5.4
Assist
in
the
creation
of
a
continuum
of
care
for
the
homeless
population
and
those
transitioning
into
permanent
housing.
v Policy
5.5
Improve
quality
of
life
for
disabled
persons
by
facilitating
relief
from
regulatory
requirements
that
may
create
barriers
to
accessible
housing
and
promoting
universal
design.
Program
H-‐5.5.a:
Regional
Facilities
for
the
Homeless
Continue
to
support
and
collaborate
with
the
Coachella
Valley
Association
of
Governments
Homelessness
Committee
efforts
HOUSING
II-‐330
to
maintain
a
regional
homeless
facility
that
provides
housing
as
well
as
supportive
services.
The
Strategic
Plan
created
by
the
Homelessness
Committee
establishes
a
continuum
of
care
for
the
Coachella
Valley.
§ Timing:
City
staff
will
continue
to
collaborate
with
CVAG
throughout
the
planning
period
(2014-‐2021),
and
work
with
the
appropriate
facilities
directly.
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Community
Development
Department
Program
H-‐5.5.b:
Transitional
Housing
and
Permanent
Supportive
Housing
Transitional
housing
typically
accommodates
homeless
people
for
up
to
two
years
as
they
stabilize
their
lives
and
does
not
meet
emergency
needs.
Transitional
housing
includes
training
and
services
that
are
vital
for
rehabilitating
and
enriching
the
lives
of
the
formerly
homeless.
Transitional
housing
facilities
provide
families
and
individuals
with
a
safe
place
within
which
to
rebuild
their
lives
and
prepare
for
independence.
Permanent
supportive
housing
is
affordable
housing
with
on-‐
or
off-‐site
services
that
help
a
person
maintain
a
stable,
housed,
life.
§ Objective:
The
Zoning
Ordinance
shall
allow
transitional
and
supportive
housing
as
a
residential
use
in
all
zones
which
allow
for
residential
development,
and
subject
only
to
those
restrictions
that
apply
to
similar
residential
uses
(single
or
multi-‐family
units)
of
the
same
type
in
the
same
zone,
and
will
not
be
subject
to
any
restrictions
not
imposed
on
similar
dwellings,
including
occupancy
limits.
§ Timing:
Coordinate
with
2009/2011
General
Plan
Update
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Planning
Department
Program
H-‐5.5.c:
Fair
Housing
Referrals
Fair
housing
organizations
provide
dispute
resolution
and
legal
assistance
to
tenants
and
landlords
in
conflict.
Such
services
are
particularly
important
for
lower
and
moderate
income
households
unable
to
afford
counsel.
§ Objective:
Continue
to
refer
tenants
and
landlords
to
the
Fair
Housing
Council
of
Riverside
County.
Provide
information
on
fair
housing
resources
on
the
City’s
website
and
at
City
Hall.
Identify
and
coordinate
with
local
HOUSING
II-‐331
nonprofits,
service
organizations
and
community
groups
that
can
assist
in
distributing
fair
housing
information.
§ Timing:
Referral
service
as
needed.
Information
to
be
placed
on
website
and
local
groups
identified
by
January
2014
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Community
Development
Department
Program
H-‐5.5.d:
Directory
of
Services
While
numerous
services
are
available
to
special
needs
and
lower
income
households,
it
can
be
difficult
to
readily
have
access
to
these
resources.
A
directory
provides
the
contact
information
necessary
to
seek
housing
assistance.
§ Objective:
Develop
an
online
directory
of
services
and
information
to
provide
La
Quinta
residents
with
contact
information
for
community
organizations
and
service
providers
that
address
special
needs.
§ Timing:
Update
website
by
March
2014
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Community
Development
Department
Energy
and
Water
Conservation
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.
v Policy
H-‐6.1
Promote
higher
density
and
compact
developments
that
increase
energy
efficiency
and
reduce
land
consumption.
v Policy
H-‐6.2
Facilitate
housing
development
and
rehabilitation
that
conserves
natural
resources
and
minimizes
greenhouse
gas
emissions.
v 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.
HOUSING
II-‐332
v Policy
H-‐6.4
Focus
sustainability
efforts
on
measures
and
techniques
that
also
assist
the
occupant
in
reducing
energy
costs;
therefore
reducing
housing
costs.
v 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
La
Quinta
Program
Continue
to
implement
the
Green
and
Sustainable
La
Quinta
Program.
§ 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:
Community
Development
Department
Program
H-‐6.5.b:
Energy
Conservation
Partners
In
working
toward
a
sustainable
La
Quinta,
the
City
and
its
residents
will
need
to
collaborate
with
utilities
and
service
providers.
Partnerships
with
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District,
Imperial
Irrigation
District,
Southern
California
Gas,
Burrtec
Waste
and
Recycling
Services,
Sunline
Transit
District,
Coachella
Valley
Association
of
Governments,
Southern
California
Association
of
Governments
and
other
entities
will
be
an
important
component
of
making
La
Quinta
a
more
livable
city.
§ Objective:
Continue
to
meet
with
and
seek
insight
from
utilities,
service
providers,
and
other
entities
involved
in
energy
conservation
efforts
appropriate
for
La
Quinta.
§ Timing:
As
part
of
regular
coordination
meetings
with
utilities
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
City
Manager’s
Office/Community
Development
Department
HOUSING
II-‐333
Program
H-‐6.5.c:
Imperial
Irrigation
District
Programs
The
Imperial
Irrigation
District
(IID)
is
proactive
in
energy
savings
via
conservation
programs,
product
rebates,
and
general
tips.
An
average
home
owner
can
save
up
to
10
percent
on
energy/energy
bills
by
taking
advantage
of
IID
programs.
Home
owners
can
utilize
the
free
“Check
Me!”
program,
which
checks
the
refrigerant
charge
and
airflow
of
their
air
conditioning/heating
units.
IID
also
offers
a
rebate
on
the
purchase
of
higher
efficiency
air
conditioning
units,
high
efficiency
refrigerators,
programmable
thermostats,
and
ENERGY
STAR
equipment.
City
staff
has
held
several
meetings
with
IID
representatives
to
discuss
opportunities
for
collaboration
to
conserve
energy
in
La
Quinta,
including
water
management
opportunities
for
golf
courses
and
golf-‐oriented
communities.
§ Objective:
Maintain
contact
with
IID
to
market
energy
efficiency
programs
and
rebates
that
are
most
beneficial
to
La
Quinta
residents
and
homeowners.
§ Timing:
Quarterly
through
Desert
Cities
Energy
Partnership
meetings
§ Funding
Source:
General
Fund,
IID
program
funds,
and
potential
AB
811
special
assessment
district
funds
§ Responsible
Agency:
City
Manager’s
Office/Community
Development
Department
Program
H-‐6.5.d:
Weatherization
Assistance
The
Federal
Department
of
Energy’s
Weatherization
Assistance
Program,
in
conjunction
with
state
and
local
programs,
provide
low
or
no
cost
weatherization
and
insulation
services
to
reduce
the
heating
and
cooling
costs
for
low
income
households.
§ Objective:
Encourage
low
income
homeowners
or
renters
to
apply
for
free
energy
audits,
home
weatherization,
and
utility
rebate
programs
by
advertising
available
programs
on
the
City’s
website
and
at
City
Hall.
§ Timing:
Advertise
annually
as
program
funds
are
available
§ Funding:
General
Fund
§ Responsible
Agency:
Building
and
Safety
Department
City
Manager’s
Office
HOUSING
II-334
0 6 .2 7 .1 3
City of La Quinta General Plan
Land Inventory Map
La Quinta, California II-14
Source: City of La Quinta, 06.21.13
E i s e n h o w e r D r .
Land Inventory Sites
W a s h i n g t o n S t .
Fred Waring Dr.
Miles Ave.
D u n e P a l m s R d .
A d a m s S t .
Ave 48
Ave 50
Ave 52
54th Ave
Airport Bl
58th Ave
60th Ave
62nd Ave
J e ff e r s o n S t
M a d i s o n S t
M o n r o e S t
E i s e n h o w e r D r .
Calle Tampico
A v e B e r m u d a s
D e s e r t C l u b
The Village Inset
1
3 abc 4
5
a b
c
d
2 a-g
6
a
b
fedc
7 j k
n
oa
bcdefghi
lm
8
a b c de
Exhibit
Chapter
III
NATURAL
RESOURCES
AIR
QUALITY
ENERGY
AND
MINERAL
RESOURCES
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
CULTURAL
RESOURCES
WATER
RESOURCES
OPEN
SPACE
AND
CONSERVATION
AIR
QUALITY
III-‐1
AIR
QUALITY
PURPOSE
The
Air
Quality
Element
describes
the
physical
causes
of
air
pollution
in
the
region
and
provides
policies
and
programs
that
will
enable
the
City
to
improve
its
air
quality.
Goals,
policies,
and
programs
set
forth
in
this
element
are
intended
to
avoid,
reduce,
or
limit
impacts
to
air
quality
resulting
from
build
out
of
the
General
Plan.
Poor
air
quality
poses
a
human
health
threat,
reduces
visibility
in
the
Valley,
affects
the
views
of
the
surrounding
desert
and
mountains,
and
interferes
with
the
livability
of
La
Quinta
for
residents
and
visitors.
The
Air
Quality
Element
is
not
a
stand-‐alone
element,
but
part
of
an
interrelated
group
of
elements
within
the
General
Plan
that
all
strive
to
preserve
and
enhance
the
quality
of
life
in
La
Quinta.
To
that
end,
the
City
has
prepared
a
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan
which
will
help
new
and
existing
development
reduce
greenhouse
gas
emissions.
The
Air
Quality
Element
is
directly
related
to
the
Land
Use
Element,
Traffic
&
Circulation
Element,
and
Open
Space
Element.
The
Land
Use
and
Circulation
Elements
have
the
greatest
effect
on
the
Air
Quality
Element
because
they
have
the
most
direct
relationship
to
vehicle
trips
–
the
largest
source
of
air
pollution
in
the
City.
BACKGROUND
The
Coachella
Valley,
including
the
City
of
La
Quinta,
is
located
within
the
Salton
Sea
Air
Basin
(SSAB)
and
is
within
the
jurisdiction
of
the
South
Coast
Air
Quality
Management
District
(SCAQMD).
The
SSAB
shares
boundaries
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.
Air
quality
in
the
City
is
a
result
of
local,
regional
and
area-‐wide
conditions.
Air
quality
has
deteriorated
in
the
Coachella
Valley
over
the
last
few
decades
due
to
local
growth,
AIR
QUALITY
III-‐2
development,
industry
and
construction
activities,
as
well
as
sources
outside
of
the
Valley,
particularly
from
the
South
Coast
Air
Basin
located
west
of
the
region.
Regulatory
Environment
Ambient
air
quality
standards
have
been
established
by
both
federal
and
state
(California)
governments
to
monitor
and
regulate
air
pollutants
and
protect
people
and
the
environment
from
the
effects
of
poor
air
quality.
At
the
regional
level,
management
districts
measure
and
monitor
air
pollution
and
develop
strategies
for
reducing
air
pollution.
Local
governments,
through
ordinances,
programs,
and
policies,
can
help
reduce
impacts
to
air
quality.
A
comparative
summary
of
the
regulatory
environment
is
shown
in
Table
III-‐1.
Table
III-‐1
Authorizing
Legislation
&
Implementing
Agencies
for
Air
Quality
Government
Legislation
Implementing
Agencies
Federal
Clean
Air
Act
US
Environmental
Protection
Agency
(USEPA)
State
California
Clean
Air
Act
California
Air
Resources
Board
(CARB)
Regional
Air
Toxics
“Hot
Spots”
Information
Assessment
Act
South
Coast
Air
Quality
Management
District
(SCAQMD)
Local
Local
Ordinances
and
Air
Quality
Elements
in
General
Plans
Local
Governments
Source:
Guidance
Document
for
Addressing
Air
Quality
Issues
in
General
Plans
and
Local
Planning,
SCAQMD,
May
6,
2005
Federal
Regulation1
At
the
federal
level,
the
U.S.
Environmental
Protection
Agency
(EPA)
is
charged
with
reducing
emissions
from
federally
controlled
sources
such
as
commercial
aircraft,
trains,
and
marine
vessels,
and
has
also
created
automobile
emission
standards
for
forty-‐nine
states.
The
EPA
has
been
able
to
enforce
emission
standards
through
the
passage
of
1
“2007
Air
Quality
Management
Plan,”
South
Coast
Air
Quality
Management
District,
June
1,
2007.
AIR
QUALITY
III-‐3
the
1963
Clean
Air
Act
(CAA).
More
recently,
the
EPA
has
become
responsible
for
regulating
greenhouse
gas
emissions.
The
EPA
is
responsible
for
setting
the
National
Ambient
Air
Quality
Standards
(NAAQS)
for
criteria
pollutants.
The
NAAQS
has
established
primary
and
secondary
standards
for
six
criteria
air
pollutants
used
to
protect
the
health
and
welfare
of
citizens
and
the
economy.
Primary
standards
are
designed
to
protect
sensitive
sectors
of
the
population
such
as
children
and
the
elderly.
Secondary
standards
were
established
to
protect
economic
entities,
such
as
crops,
buildings,
and
visibility.
State
Regulation
The
State
of
California
has
created
air
quality
regulation
through
the
California
Clean
Air
Act
(CCAA),
which
became
effective
on
January
1,
1989.
The
CCAA
establishes
ambient
air
quality
standards
similar
to
NAAQS,
and
sets
forth
deadlines
for
air
management
districts
which
are
not
attaining
the
standards
to
reach
attainment
status.
The
CCAA
also
established
the
California
Air
Resources
Board
(CARB)
to
oversee
regional
air
pollution
and
develop
State
ambient
air
quality
standards,
which
are
generally
more
stringent
than
federal
standards.
CARB
advises
and
evaluates
the
efforts
of
local
and
regional
air
pollution
control
agencies
and
districts.
Districts
that
are
in
noncompliance
with
federal
and
state
standards
are
encouraged
to
prepare
State
Implementation
Plans
(SIP)
to
help
meet
the
federal
and
state
ambient
air
quality
standards.
The
passage
of
the
California
Global
Warming
Solutions
Act
(AB
32)
in
2006
made
CARB
the
responsible
state
agency
for
monitoring
and
reducing
greenhouse
gas
(GHG)
emissions
at
the
state
level,
by
establishing
an
annual
reporting
program
of
emissions
for
significant
sources.
It
also
set
limits
to
cut
the
state’s
GHG
emissions
to
1990
levels
by
2020.
Finally,
the
Governor’s
Executive
Order
S-‐3-‐05,
enacted
on
June
1,
2005,
takes
California’s
commitment
to
GHG
reductions
one
step
further.
It
resolves
to
achieve
statewide
emission
reductions
that
are
80%
below
1990
levels
by
2050.
Regional
Regulation
The
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
are
regulated
on
a
regional
level
by
the
South
Coast
Air
Quality
Management
District
(SCAQMD).
SCAQMD
has
jurisdiction
over
approximately
10,743
square
miles
throughout
Southern
California
and
regulates
air
quality
standards
for
three
different
air
basins,
including
the
South
Coast
Air
Basin,
Mojave
Desert
AIR
QUALITY
III-‐4
Air
Basin,
and
Salton
Sea
Air
Basin.
The
City
of
La
Quinta
and
surrounding
Coachella
Valley
region
are
located
within
the
Salton
Sea
Air
Basin
(SSAB).
The
Salton
Sea
Air
Basin
is
generally
bounded
on
the
west
by
the
San
Jacinto
Mountains
and
on
the
east
by
the
eastern
edge
of
the
Coachella
Valley.
The
SCAQMD
is
responsible
for
the
overall
development
and
implementation
of
the
Air
Quality
Management
Plan
(AQMP).
The
AQMP
is
a
comprehensive
plan
that
complies
with
state
and
federal
requirements
for
ensuring
air
quality
improvement.
The
latest
plan,
approved
in
2007,
builds
upon
previous
plans
and
provides
comprehensive
strategies
to
control
pollution
from
mobile
sources,
stationary
sources
and
area
sources.
It
also
proposes
policies
and
measures
to
achieve
federal
standards
for
healthful
air
quality
throughout
the
District.
The
Salton
Sea
Air
Basin
has
been
in
non-‐compliance
with
federal
standards
for
ozone,
and
has
been
classified
as
a
“serious”
ozone
non-‐
attainment
area.
The
region
has
also
historically
been
designated
as
a
serious
non-‐attainment
area
for
particulate
matter
of
10
microns
or
less,
known
as
PM10.
Blown
sand
is
the
primary
source
of
PM10
in
the
City
and
the
Valley.
In
2002,
the
Coachella
Valley
State
Implementation
Plan
(CVSIP)
was
prepared
and
implemented
by
all
Valley
cities
to
reduce
the
amount
of
blown
sand
and
dust
in
the
Valley.
Since
the
approval
of
the
2003
CVSIP
by
the
EPA,
the
Coachella
Valley
has
successfully
reduced
the
amount
of
PM10
in
the
air
and
meets
current
South
Coast
Air
Quality
Management
District
Jurisdiction
AIR
QUALITY
III-‐5
federal
standards.
However,
the
Environmental
Protection
Agency
has
not
yet
re-‐designated
the
PM10
classification
for
the
Coachella
Valley.
Regionally,
the
Coachella
Valley
Association
of
Governments
(CVAG)
coordinates
the
management
of
PM10
for
all
Coachella
Valley
cities.
It
developed
a
model
management
plan
which
has
been
implemented
throughout
the
area.
As
a
member
of
CVAG,
the
City
of
La
Quinta
is
involved
in
the
regional
management
of
air
quality.
Local
Regulation
This
Element
provides
the
City
of
La
Quinta
with
goals,
policies,
and
programs
to
implement
improvements
to
its
air
quality.
The
City
is
also
meeting
the
requirements
of
AB32
by
preparing
a
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan,
which
establishes
its
current
emissions
and
sets
targets
for
long-‐term
reductions.
Community-‐wide
activities
in
the
City
generated
an
estimated
1,228,050
metric
tons
of
carbon
dioxide
equivalence
in
2005.
Reduction
targets
in
the
Plan
strive
to
achieve
10%
below
2005
levels
by
2020.
To
reach
those
targets,
the
Plan
includes
a
wide
range
of
implementation
tools
which
can
be
implemented
by
City
officials,
residents
and
business
owners.
Regulated
Pollutants
Regulated
pollutants
fall
under
three
categories,
including
criteria
air
pollutants,
toxic
air
contaminants
(TAC),
and
greenhouse
and
ozone
depleting
gases.
Each
type
of
pollutant
is
measured
and
regulated
differently.
Criteria
air
pollutants
are
measured
by
sampling
concentrations
in
the
ambient
air,
whereas
toxic
air
contaminants
are
measured
at
the
source
and
in
the
atmosphere.
Greenhouse
and
ozone
depleting
gases
do
not
have
established
thresholds,
but
are
subject
to
federal
and
regional
policies
for
reduction.2
AB32,
for
example,
establishes
standards
for
targeted
greenhouse
gas
reduction
goals.
Criteria
Pollutants
Criteria
pollutants
are
air
pollutants
for
which
federal
and
state
air
quality
standards
exist.
Federal
and
state
ambient
air
quality
standards
exist
for
lead,
sulfur
dioxide,
carbon
monoxide,
nitrogen
dioxide,
ozone,
and
suspended
particulate
matter.
The
California
Air
Resource
Board
also
has
standards
for
hydrogen
sulfide,
sulfates,
vinyl
chloride,
and
visibility-‐reducing
particles.
Table
III-‐2,
below,
provides
a
summary
of
primary
sources
and
effects
of
the
NAAQS
Criteria
Pollutants.
2
Guidance
Document
for
Addressing
Air
Quality
Issues
in
General
Plans
and
Local
Planning,
SCAQMD,
May
6,
2005.
AIR
QUALITY
III-‐6
Table
III-‐2
Primary
Sources
and
Effects
of
Criteria
Pollutants
Pollutant
Source
Primary
Health
and
Welfare
Effects
Lead
(Pb)
Contaminated
Soil,
production
of
batteries,
ink,
ammunition
Behavioral
and
hearing
disabilities
in
children;
anemia;
kidney
disease;
neuromuscular
disorders.
Sulfur
Dioxide
(SO2)
Combustion
of
sulfur
containing
fossil
fuels
such
as
coal,
petroleum;
chemical
manufacturing
plants
Aggravation
of
respiratory
diseases
(asthma,
emphysema;
reduced
lung
function)
Carbon
Monoxide
(CO)
Incomplete
combustion
of
motor
exhaust;
decomposition
of
organic
matter
Heart
disease;
anemia;
impaired
mental
function;
impaired
fetal
development
Nitrogen
Dioxide
(NO2)
Motor
vehicle
exhaust;
high
temperature
stationary
combustion;
atmospheric
reactions
Respiratory
illness;
aggravation
of
heart
disease
Ozone
Atmospheric
reaction
of
organic
gases
with
nitrogen
oxides
and
VOC’s
in
sunlight
Aggravation
of
respiratory
and
cardiovascular
diseases;
reduced
lung
function;
asthma;
emphysema;
increased
sensitivity
to
infections
Particulate
Matter
(PM10
&
PM2.5)
Stationary
combustion
of
fossil
fuels;
construction
activities;
Reduced
lung
function;
aggravation
of
cardio-‐
respiratory
diseases
Source:
Guidance
Document
for
Addressing
Air
Quality
Issues
in
General
Plans
and
Local
Planning,
SCAQMD,
May
6,
2005.
Toxic
Air
Contaminants
Toxic
Air
Contaminants
(TACs)
are
considered
“non-‐criteria”
air
contaminants
because
no
ambient
air
quality
standards
exist
for
them.
There
are
numerous
TACs
emitted
into
the
air,
and
exposure
to
them
is
linked
to
cancer,
birth
defects,
genetic
damage
and
other
adverse
health
conditions.
Short-‐term
exposure
is
known
to
cause
acute
health
effects
such
as
nausea,
skin
irritation,
and
respiratory
illness.
Greenhouse
Gases
Greenhouse
gases,
such
as
carbon
dioxide,
methane,
nitrous
oxide,
halons,
chlorofluorocarbons,
and
hydro-‐chlorofluorocarbons,
are
released
into
the
atmosphere
by
both
natural
processes
and
human
activities.
These
gases
are
termed
“greenhouse
gases”
because
they
trap
heat
and
are
responsible
for
the
global
increase
in
surface
temperature
observed
over
the
last
decade.
There
is
much
debate
over
what
the
effects
of
climate
change
will
be,
but
there
is
a
general
AIR
QUALITY
III-‐7
consensus
that
emissions
levels
need
to
be
reduced
in
order
to
minimize
air
pollution
and
limit
the
amount
of
carbon
dioxide
and
other
pollutants
that
are
emitted.
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan
La
Quinta
is
committed
to
reducing
greenhouse
gas
emissions,
and
has
prepared
a
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan
as
a
first
step
towards
achieving
this
goal.
The
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan
includes
a
comprehensive
inventory
of
greenhouse
gas
emissions
generated
City-‐
wide,
including
those
generated
by
local
government
activities.
Future
emissions
of
greenhouse
gases
are
projected,
reduction
targets
set,
and
policies
and
programs
are
proposed
as
part
of
the
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan.
The
Plan
is
a
toolbox
the
City
will
use
to
meet
mandated
reductions.
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%
below
1990
levels
by
2050.
While
more
stringent
requirements
for
building
standards
and
vehicle
fuel
efficiency
are
being
enacted
on
a
statewide
level,
such
as
through
updates
to
the
California
Building
Code
(Title
24),
and
SB
375,
the
City
will
comply
with
statewide
efforts
and
act
locally
to
monitor,
evaluate,
and
amend
local
policies
and
programs
in
order
to
achieve
mandated
emission
reductions.
Ambient
Air
Quality
Standards
Federal
and
state
air
quality
standards
established
for
criteria
pollutants
are
designed
to
protect
that
segment
of
the
population
that
is
most
susceptible
to
respiratory
distress
or
infection,
including
the
elderly,
children,
asthmatics,
or
those
who
are
weak
from
disease
or
illness.
State
standards
are
generally
more
restrictive
than
federal
standards,
particularly
with
regard
to
carbon
monoxide
and
particulate
matter.
The
General
Plan
EIR
describes
the
federal
and
state
standards
in
place
at
the
time
this
General
Plan
is
adopted.
The
SCAQMD
operates
and
maintains
two
regional
air
quality
monitoring
stations
in
the
Coachella
Valley,
including
one
at
a
Palm
Springs
Fire
Station
and
one
in
the
City
of
Indio,
off
Jackson
Street.
These
monitoring
stations
determine
whether
existing
ambient
air
quality
complies
with
current
standards.
The
nearest
monitoring
station
to
La
Quinta,
in
Indio,
monitors
contaminant
levels
and
meteorological
conditions
on
a
daily
basis.
Ozone
and
particulate
matter
are
the
primary
pollutants
of
concern
in
La
Quinta
and
AIR
QUALITY
III-‐8
represent
the
greatest
threats
to
air
quality
and
human
health
in
the
Coachella
Valley.
The
region
is
experiencing
a
decreasing
trend
in
the
number
of
days
that
exceed
ozone
and
PM10
levels.
Sensitive
Receptors
Sensitive
receptors
are
people
or
land
uses
that
may
be
especially
subject
to
respiratory
stress
and/or
significant
adverse
impacts
as
a
result
of
exposure
to
air
contaminants.
The
CARB
designates
people
with
cardiovascular
and
chronic
respiratory
diseases,
children
under
14,
seniors
over
65,
and
athletes
as
sensitive
receptors.
The
City’s
appeal
as
a
retirement
destination
and
resort
community
implies
that
a
major
portion
of
its
residents
and
visitors
are
potentially
susceptible
to
respiratory
distress
from
elevated
concentrations
of
air
quality
pollutants.
Accordingly,
hospitals,
nursing
and
retirement
homes,
schools,
daycares,
playgrounds,
parks,
athletic
facilities,
residential
structures,
and
hotels
are
all
considered
sensitive
land
uses.
Climatic
Conditions
in
the
Coachella
Valley
The
City
of
La
Quinta,
the
City’s
Sphere
of
Influence,
and
the
surrounding
region
are
located
in
a
hot,
arid
desert
climate.
The
surrounding
mountains
block
coastal
influences,
creating
an
area
of
low
rainfall.
The
Valley
floor
typically
receives
an
average
of
four
inches
of
rain
per
year.
Temperatures
frequently
exceed
100º
F
during
the
summer
and
can
occasionally
fall
below
freezing
during
the
winter.
The
prevailing
wind
patterns
during
spring
and
summer
blow
west
to
east
and
are
caused
by
a
desert
thermal
low-‐pressure
area
drawing
cooler,
denser
coastal
air
through
the
San
Gorgonio
Pass.
During
fall
and
winter
months,
climatic
conditions
change
as
strong
dry
northeasterly
Santa
Ana
winds
blow
air
toward
the
coast.
These
strong
wind
events
suspend
and
transport
large
quantities
of
particulate
matter,
including
sand
and
dust,
which
can
reduce
visibility,
damage
property
and
pose
a
significant
health
threat.
The
prevailing
wind
patterns
also
draw
in
air
pollution
generated
in
the
South
Coast
Air
Basin
west
of
the
Coachella
Valley.
Regional
Pollutants
of
Concern
Compared
to
air
basins
west
of
the
Coachella
Valley,
the
City
of
La
Quinta
has
good
air
quality.
High
levels
of
ozone
and
particulate
matter,
which
are
described
below,
are
the
primary
pollutants
of
concern
in
La
Quinta
and
represent
the
greatest
threat
to
air
quality
and
human
health
in
the
Coachella
Valley.
AIR
QUALITY
III-‐9
Ozone
(O3)
Ozone
is
a
pungent,
colorless,
toxic
gas
formed
when
byproducts
of
internal
combustion
engines
react
in
the
presence
of
ultraviolet
sunlight.
Ozone
is
emitted
daily
from
the
operation
of
automobiles.
The
Coachella
Valley
has
a
history
of
occasionally
exceeding
state
and
federal
ozone
standards;
however,
trends
do
show
a
slight
decrease
in
the
concentration
over
the
past
decade.
The
Coachella
Valley
is
classified
as
a
“serious”
ozone
non-‐attainment
area
under
the
Federal
Clean
Air
Act.
Under
current
regulatory
plans,
the
area
must
demonstrate
attainment
of
the
federal
ozone
air
quality
standard
by
June
15,
2013.3
Local
monitoring
for
ozone
indicates
that
federal
ozone
exceedances
in
the
Coachella
Valley
are
largely
the
result
of
pollutant
transport
from
the
South
Coast
Air
Basin,
through
the
Banning
Pass.
Improving
ozone
levels
in
the
Coachella
Valley
will
be
partly
dependent
upon
reduced
ozone
emissions
in
the
South
Coast
Air
Basin.
Simulations
of
ozone
episodes,
prepared
by
SCAQMD,
show
that
the
federal
8-‐hour
standard
will
be
attained
in
the
Coachella
Valley
by
2018.4
This
8-‐hour
standard
is
currently
the
only
federal
standard
for
ozone.
PM10
Emissions
Particulate
matter
less
than
10
microns
in
diameter
(PM10)
includes
suspended
particles
of
dust,
sand,
metallic
and
mineral
substances,
road-‐surfacing
materials,
pollen,
smoke,
fumes
and
aerosols.
Natural
erosion
and
sand
migration
caused
by
strong
winds
in
the
Coachella
Valley
generate
most
PM10
in
the
La
Quinta
area.
Grading
and
other
activities
associated
with
construction
are
also
significant
contributors
to
dust
generation.
Windborne
particles
may
be
further
pulverized
by
motor
vehicles
on
roadways,
where
they
are
re-‐suspended
in
the
air.
PM10
particles
can
pass
through
the
filtering
system
of
the
lungs
and
directly
irritate
lung
tissues,
potentially
resulting
in
serious
health
problems.
Although
the
Coachella
Valley
has
a
history
of
elevated
PM10
levels,
local
government
agencies,
private
and
public
stakeholders,
and
SCAQMD
have
developed
State
Implementation
Plans,
rules,
and
local
dust
control
ordinances
to
bring
the
Coachella
Valley
into
attainment.
The
Coachella
Valley
State
Implementation
Plan
was
adopted
and
approved
by
the
EPA
on
April
18,
2003
and
includes
control
measures
3
As
described
in
the
2007
Air
Quality
Management
Plan,
prepared
by
SCAQMD
on
June
1,
2007,
p.8-‐1,
this
will
be
accomplished
using
a
photochemical
grid
model.
4
2007
Air
Quality
Management
Plan,
SCAQMD,
June
1,
2007,
p.8-‐10
AIR
QUALITY
III-‐10
to
reduce
PM10.5
These
measures
have
been
effective
in
reducing
the
concentration
of
PM10
throughout
the
Coachella
Valley.
Although
the
valley
currently
meets
attainment
standards,
the
EPA
has
not
yet
re-‐
designated
the
PM10
classification
for
the
Coachella
Valley.
Pollutant
Control
Measures
Implemented
by
La
Quinta
In
2003,
to
reduce
the
impacts
of
local
fugitive
dust
and
PM10
emissions,
the
City
of
La
Quinta
adopted
Fugitive
Dust
(PM10)
Control
Ordinance
No.
391
(Chapter
6.16
of
the
La
Quinta
City
Municipal
Code).
The
ordinance
establishes
minimum
dust
control
requirements
for
construction
and
demolition
activities
and
other
land
uses.
Dust
control
measures
set
forth
in
the
ordinance
include
the
preparation
and
approval
of
a
Fugitive
Dust
Control
Plan;
reductions
in
vehicular
speeds
on
unpaved
roads
and
at
construction
sites;
the
application
of
chemical
and/or
vegetative
dust
suppressants
and
stabilizers;
and
paving
of
parking
lots
and
roadways.
The
City
will
not
issue
a
grading
or
demolition
permit
without
an
approved
Fugitive
Dust
Control
Plan.
The
City
has
the
authority
to
monitor
and
inspect
grading
and
demolition
activities
to
ensure
that
the
measures
identified
in
each
fugitive
dust
mitigation
plan
are
properly
implemented.6
The
City
also
participates
in
regional
air
pollution
reduction
measures
established
and
maintained
through
the
Coachella
Valley
Association
of
Governments.
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
The
City
of
La
Quinta
will
continue
to
act
locally
to
meet
existing
and
future
state
and
federal
air
quality
regulations.
La
Quinta
is
exploring
alternative
energy
options,
such
as
wind
turbines,
geothermal
systems,
and
solar
energy,
electric
and
alternative
fuel
vehicles,
and
green
building
technology,
as
viable
options
for
enhancing
air
quality
by
reducing
greenhouse
gas
emissions
and
other
air
pollutants.
A
major
effort
of
this
undertaking
is
the
implementation
of
the
La
Quinta
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan.
5
2003
Coachella
Valley
PM10
State
Implementation
Plan,
SCAQMD,
August
1,
2003
6 Ordinance 391, City of La Quinta, December 2, 2003
AIR
QUALITY
III-‐11
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
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.
Policy
AQ-‐1.2
Work
to
reduce
emissions
from
residential
and
commercial
energy
use
by
encouraging
decreased
consumption
and
increased
efficiency.
Program
AQ-‐1.2.a:
Work
directly
with
the
major
utility
providers,
including
The
Gas
Company,
Imperial
Irrigation
District
and
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
to
develop
incentives
and
rebates
to
encourage
energy
savings,
subject
to
funding
availability.
Program
AQ-‐1.2.b:
Encourage
Imperial
Irrigation
District
to
diversify
and
expand
the
use
of
alternative
energy
sources.
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.a:
Work
with
Sunline
Transit
Agency
to
expand
public
transportation
routes.
Program
AQ-‐1.3.b:
Encourage
public
and
private
schools
to
establish
alternative
transportation
programs
for
students.
Program
AQ-‐1.3.c:
Adopt
and
implement
a
Transportation
Demand
Management
Ordinance
for
businesses
with
50
or
more
employees.
Program
AQ-‐1.3.d:
Expand
routes
for
golf
carts
and
other
neighborhood
electric
vehicles
and
plan
for
access
and
AIR
QUALITY
III-‐12
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.
Program
AQ-‐1.4.a:
Uses
such
as
manufacturing,
auto
body
shops,
and
other
point
source
polluters
should
be
reasonably
separated
from
sensitive
receptors.
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.
Policy
AQ-‐1.7
Greenhouse
gas
emissions
associated
with
a
development
project
shall
demonstrate
adherence
to
the
City’s
GHG
Reduction
Plan.
AIR
QUALITY
III-‐13
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.
Program
AQ-‐1.8.b:
Establish
a
comprehensive
database
to
maintain
an
inventory
of
city
government
resource
use
and
conservation
with
interdepartmental
access.
Program
AQ-‐1.8.c:
Coordinate
with
Burrtec
to
establish
and
implement
programs
that
divert
wastes
from
landfills,
such
as
the
composting
of
food
waste
and
plant
debris
and
the
expanded
re-‐use
and
recycling
of
materials,
to
reduce
methane
emissions.
RELATED
GOALS
As
described
above,
this
Element
relates
to
others
in
this
General
Plan.
The
following
Goals,
and
their
associated
policies
and
programs,
are
closely
related
to
those
of
this
Element.
GOAL
SC-‐1:
A
community
that
provides
the
best
possible
quality
of
life
for
all
its
residents.
ENERGY
AND
MINERAL
RESOURCES
III-‐15
ENERGY
AND
MINERAL
RESOURCES
PURPOSE
Energy
and
mineral
resources
are
components
of
the
City’s
natural
resources.
Energy
resources
include
electric
power,
natural
gas
service,
and
propane
gas
service,
which
is
limited
to
the
La
Quinta
Cove
and
some
areas
in
the
Sphere
of
Influence
(SOI).
Recent
changes
in
California
law
and
residents’
concerns
regarding
energy
efficiency
and
conservation
have
placed
a
particular
focus
on
energy
use
now
and
in
the
future.
Mineral
resources
in
the
region
consist
primarily
of
sand
and
gravel
for
construction,
which
have
not
been
mined
in
the
City
or
its
SOI
in
many
years.
Government
Code
Section
65560
requires
that
cities
consider
in
their
General
Plans
lands
for
the
managed
production
of
natural
resources.
The
Energy
and
Mineral
Resources
Element
addresses
these
resources,
and
their
relationship
to
the
City’s
long-‐term
growth.
BACKGROUND
Energy
Resources
Electricity
is
provided
to
the
City
and
its
SOI
by
the
Imperial
Irrigation
District
(IID),
a
local
taxing
district
which
provides
electric
power
to
the
eastern
Coachella
Valley
and
Imperial
County.
IID
generates
over
60%
of
its
power
from
a
number
of
facilities,
including
the
Coachella
Gas
Turbine
facility
in
Coachella,
and
its
transmission
facilities
include
its
Green
Path
system,
which
transmits
geothermal
energy
produced
in
Imperial
County.
IID
has
diversified
its
portfolio
and
is
striving
to
achieve
its
goal
of
deriving
a
minimum
of
20%
of
its
electricity
from
alternative
energy
sources,
such
as
geothermal,
solar
and
wind
energy.
In
2005
in
La
Quinta,
a
total
of
9,750
customers
consumed
222,576,000
kilowatt
hours
(kWh)
of
electricity.
Single
family
homes
and
condominiums
consumed
on
average
ENERGY
AND
MINERAL
RESOURCES
III-‐16
17,917
kWh
each,
and
were
the
single
largest
user
of
electricity
in
the
City.
The
City
has
committed
to
reducing
its
consumption
of
electricity
through
a
number
of
programs,
discussed
below
and
in
the
Livable
Community
Element.
.
Natural
gas
is
provided
to
the
City
by
The
Gas
Company,
which
transports
natural
gas
to
the
Coachella
Valley
through
regional
high
pressure
lines.
Limiting
stations
transfer
the
gas
to
supply
lines
with
reduced
pressure,
which
feed
local
accounts.
Natural
gas
is
the
primary
energy
source
for
water
heaters,
cooking
and
heating.
In
2005,
the
City
consumed
692,150,000
cubic
feet
of
natural
gas.
In
2009,
the
City
consumed
an
estimated
950
million
cubic
feet
of
natural
gas.
In
areas
where
natural
gas
service
is
not
available,
including
portions
of
the
La
Quinta
Cove
and
older
homes
in
the
SOI,
propane
gas
is
used
instead.
Propane
is
supplied
by
private
companies
which
contract
with
individuals
and
businesses
to
fill
on-‐site
tanks
for
private
use.
Alternative
Energy
The
western
end
of
the
Coachella
Valley
has
produced
wind
energy
for
years.
The
City
and
its
SOI
do
not
have
sustained
winds
sufficient
to
accommodate
commercial
wind
energy
development,
but
they
have,
and
will
continue,
to
benefit
from
this
resource.
State
and
federal
programs
have
expanded
the
potential
for
wind
energy
development,
which
is
currently
being
considered
for
expansion
on
federal
lands
in
the
region.
As
described
above,
geothermal
energy
is
in
production
in
Imperial
County
and
is
currently
part
of
the
IID
energy
portfolio.
Its
expansion
is
also
likely
during
the
life
of
this
General
Plan,
as
additional
sources
are
tapped
and
harnessed.
More
studies
are
required
to
determine
whether
geothermal
energy
production
is
feasible
locally.
However,
the
City
can
expect
to
continue
to
use
geothermal
energy
produced
elsewhere
well
into
the
future.
The
City’s
abundant
sunshine
makes
solar
energy
use
the
most
promising
alternative
energy
production
method
for
the
future.
In
the
past,
consumer-‐level
solar
energy
systems
were
costly
and
unreliable.
The
latest
technology,
however,
has
reduced
costs
and
improved
efficiency.
During
the
life
of
this
General
Plan,
it
can
be
expected
that
solar
energy
use
for
residences
and
businesses
will
increase
substantially.
ENERGY
AND
MINERAL
RESOURCES
III-‐17
Energy
and
Greenhouse
Gases
In
recent
years,
concerns
regarding
the
existence
and
increase
in
greenhouse
gases
have
grown.
Greenhouse
gases
include
carbon
dioxide,
methane,
nitrous
oxides
and
fluorinated
gases
which
have
been
shown
to
damage
our
atmosphere
and
increase
global
warming.
Although
the
primary
source
of
greenhouse
gases
is
the
automobile,
the
creation
and
consumption
of
energy
also
produces
greenhouse
gases.
In
2006,
the
State
legislature
passed,
and
the
Governor
signed,
the
California
Global
Warming
Solution
Act,
which
requires
that
all
greenhouse
gas
emissions
be
reduced
to
1990
levels
by
2020,
and
that
reductions
of
80%
below
1990
levels
be
achieved
by
2050.
By
reducing
its
consumption
of
energy,
the
City
will
help
to
meet
these
targets
during
the
life
of
this
General
Plan.
Mineral
Resources
Mineral
resources
in
the
City
and
the
region
consist
primarily
of
sand
and
gravel
which
has
been
transported
by
wind
and
rain
into
the
Valley
from
surrounding
mountains
over
millennia.
California
requires
that
mineral
resources
be
identified
and
that
the
mining
of
identified
resources
be
protected.
The
California
Department
of
Conservation,
Division
of
Mines
and
Geology
has
mapped
the
region’s
resources
and
identified
three
Mineral
Resource
Zones
in
the
City:
MRZ-‐1
lands
are
areas
where
adequate
information
indicates
that
no
significant
mineral
deposits
are
present,
or
where
it
is
judged
that
little
likelihood
for
their
presence
exists.
MRZ-‐2
lands
include
areas
where
adequate
information
indicates
that
significant
mineral
deposits
are
present,
or
where
it
is
judged
that
a
high
likelihood
for
their
presence
exists.
MRZ-‐3
lands
are
areas
containing
mineral
deposits,
the
significance
of
which
cannot
be
evaluated
from
available
data.
As
shown
in
Exhibit
III-‐1,
most
of
the
City
and
its
Sphere
lie
within
MRZ-‐
1,
while
lands
south
of
Avenue
60
have
not
been
studied.
ENERGY
AND
MINERAL
RESOURCES
III-‐18
THIS
PAGE
INTENTIONALLY
LEFT
BLANK
ENERGY
AND
MINERAL
RESOURCES
III-‐21
Only
one
area
of
the
City
is
identified
as
having
the
potential
for
mineral
resources
(please
see
Exhibit
III-‐1).
The
MRZ-‐2
zone
was
previously
a
quarry
site,
but
has
been
developed
as
a
country
club
community
for
several
years.
The
future
development
of
the
City’s
hillsides
will
be
unlikely,
as
they
are
designated
for
Open
Space
and
are
not
expected
to
develop.
No
other
lands
are
identified
in
the
City
or
its
Sphere
as
having
the
potential
to
harbor
mineral
resources.
Lands
south
of
Avenue
60
have
not
been
studied
yet.
If
they
prove
to
contain
mineral
resources,
the
City
will
diligently
and
responsibly
manage
these
mineral
resources.
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
The
continued
growth
of
the
City
and
its
Sphere
will
require
additional
energy
resources.
Although
IID
and
The
Gas
Company
are
expected
to
continue
to
supply
the
City
and
its
Sphere
with
electricity
and
natural
gas,
respectively,
the
City
is
also
committed
to
the
conservation
of
these
resources
and
to
reducing
energy
usage
to
the
greatest
extent
possible.
Additionally,
the
City
has
developed
a
Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
Plan
which
establishes
reduction
targets
and
implementation
programs
to
help
the
City
meet
the
requirements
of
the
California
Global
Warming
Solutions
Act.
While
the
policies
and
programs
in
this
element
are
specifically
focused
on
energy
resources,
the
Livable
Community
Element
includes
detailed
policies
and
programs
to
achieve
global
warming
goals.
ENERGY
AND
MINERAL
RESOURCES
III-‐22
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
EM-‐1
The
sustainable
use
and
management
of
energy
and
mineral
resources.
Policy
EM-‐1.1
Strongly
encourage
conservation
of
energy
resources.
Program
EM-‐1.2.a:
Review
and
amend,
as
appropriate,
Zoning
Ordinance
procedures
and
standards
to
include
site
orientation,
solar
control
and
use
of
passive
heating
and
cooling
techniques.
Policy
EM-‐1.2
Support
the
use
of
alternative
energy
and
the
conversion
of
traditional
energy
sources
to
alternative
energy.
Program
EM-‐1.2.a:
Encourage
installation
of
alternative
energy
devices
on
new
and
existing
development.
Programs
may
include
City-‐funded
incentive
programs;
matching
fund
programs
with
IID,
The
Gas
Company
and
alternative
energy
providers,
as
well
as
other
programs
as
they
become
available.
Program
EM-‐1.2.b:
As
funding
and
applicability
allows,
incorporate
Compressed
Natural
Gas
(CNG),
hybrid
or
electric
vehicles
into
the
City
fleet
as
vehicles
are
replaced,
with
a
target
to
complete
the
conversion
by
2035.
Program
EM-‐1.2.c:
Continue
participation
in
the
Sunline
Transit
Agency,
and
promote
the
use
of
alternative
fuel
technologies
for
its
buses.
Program
EM-‐1.2.d:
As
appropriate,
incorporate
LED
or
other
energy-‐efficient
lighting
in
signals
and
lights
throughout
the
City.
Program
EM-‐1.2.e:
Explore
opportunities
to
provide
a
CNG
and
other
alternate
fuel
fueling
station
in
the
City.
Program
EM-‐1.2.f:
Implement,
as
appropriate,
energy-‐efficient
improvements
in
City
buildings
and
facilities
using
Energy
Efficiency
Conservation
Block
Grant
or
similar
funds.
ENERGY
AND
MINERAL
RESOURCES
III-‐23
GOAL
EM-‐2
The
conservation
and
thoughtful
management
of
local
mineral
deposits
to
assure
the
long-‐term
viability
of
limited
resources.
Policy
EM-‐2.1
Preserve
mineral
resources
identified
by
the
Department
of
Mines
and
Geology
to
the
greatest
extent
possible.
Program
EM-‐2.1.a:
As
appropriate,
designate
undeveloped
lands
known
to
contain
mineral
resources
as
determined
by
the
Department
of
Mines
and
Geology
as
Open
Space
on
the
General
Plan
Land
Use
Map.
Program
EM-‐2.1.b:
Review
and
amend
the
Zoning
Ordinance
as
appropriate
to
require
that
mineral
extraction
occurring
in
the
City
be
subject
to
the
requirements
of
the
California
Surface
Mining
and
Reclamation
Act
(SMARA),
and
the
City’s
Zoning
procedures.
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
III-‐25
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
PURPOSE
The
Biological
Resources
Element
provides
background
information
on
the
City’s
diverse
natural
habitats
and
the
species
which
live
in
these
habitats.
It
provides
information
on
the
Coachella
Valley
Multiple
Species
Habitat
Conservation
Plan
(CV
MSHCP)
and
those
species
covered
by
the
Plan
which
may
occur
in
the
City.
The
Element
also
includes
goals,
policies
and
programs
to
direct
the
preservation
of
valuable
habitat
and
the
species
which
occur
in
the
City,
and
to
comply
with
federal,
state,
and
regional
efforts
associated
with
biological
resource
preservation.
California
Government
Code
Section
65302(d)
requires
that
the
General
Plan
include
a
natural
resources
component,
which
addresses,
among
other
issues,
biological
resources.
The
Biological
Resources
Element
directly
relates
to
the
Land
Use
and
Open
Space
elements
and
has
the
potential
to
impact
both.
In
addition,
native
species
can
be
significantly
affected
by
the
availability
of
water,
tying
this
Element
to
the
Water
Resources
Element.
BACKGROUND
La
Quinta’s
natural
environment
varies
considerably,
as
its
elevation
ranges
from
130
feet
below
sea
level
in
the
southeastern
corner
of
the
Sphere
of
Influence,
to
over
1,700
feet
above
sea
level
in
the
foothills
of
the
Santa
Rosa
Mountains.
The
majority
of
the
City
and
the
Sphere
of
Influence
occur
on
the
Valley
floor,
which
has
a
climate
characterized
by
hot,
dry
summers
and
mild
winters.
Climate
has
affected
soils,
and
therefore,
the
habitats
which
can
be
sustained
in
the
City.
Most
of
the
11
soil
types
found
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere
are
sandy
in
nature
and
well-‐drained.
Rock
and
rubble
occur
in
the
Santa
Rosa
foothills.
(Please
see
the
Soils
and
Geology
Element
for
greater
detail
on
soil
types
in
the
City.)
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
III-‐26
Naturally
occurring
habitat
within
the
City
and
on
the
Valley
floor
has
largely
disappeared
due
to
the
impacts
of
agriculture
and
urban
development.
The
majority
of
the
City’s
vegetation
consists
of
non-‐
native
ornamental
plants
which
have
been
introduced
via
urban
development.
Native
habitat
still
occurs
on
the
slopes
of
the
Santa
Rosas,
and
lands
which
are
designated
as
Open
Space
on
the
City’s
Land
Use
Map,
and
these
areas
have
little
potential
for
development.
Common
Native
Plant
Species
The
base
of
the
foothills,
drainages
and
streams
in
the
City
consist
primarily
of
Sonoran
Creosote
Bush
Scrub,
Sonoran
Mixed
Woody
and
Succulent
Scrub,
and
Desert
Dry
Wash
Woodland.
Sonoran
Creosote
Bush
Scrub
is
the
most
common
plant
community
in
the
City
and
the
Coachella
Valley,
and
is
dominated
by
Creosote
Bush,
Burrobush,
Brittlebush
and
similar
common
species.
This
plant
community
also
has
the
highest
concentration
of
annual
desert
wildflowers,
which
can
result
in
bright
explosions
of
color
in
the
spring.
Sonoran
Mixed
Woody
and
Succulent
Scrub,
which
occurs
primarily
at
the
base
of
the
Santa
Rosa
Mountains,
is
similar
to
Creosote
Bush
Scrub,
but
has
a
higher
plant
density
and
greater
variety
of
species,
including
cacti
and
succulents.
This
habitat
can
include
Golden
Cholla,
Buckhorn
Cholla,
Beavertail,
California
Barrel
Cactus
and
Ocotillo.
Desert
Dry
Wash
Woodland
is
dominated
by
Blue
Palo
Verde,
Ironwood
and
Smoketree,
which
are
all
well
adapted
to
intermittent
water
flows
in
the
washes
and
drainage
courses
which
occur
in
the
City’s
southern
end.
The
northern
area
of
the
City
was
originally
wind
blown
sandy
habitat,
including
desert
dunes
and
sand
field
habitats.
The
development
of
lands
to
the
northwest
over
time
has
reduced
the
amount
of
sand
transported
to
these
areas
and
resulted
in
stabilized
sand
habitats
that
are
more
likely
to
support
non-‐native
and
invasive
species,
which
have
degraded
the
natural
communities.
Little
of
this
habitat
still
occurs,
and
those
parcels
which
are
still
vacant
are
generally
isolated.
None
of
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
III-‐27
the
sand
field
habitats
within
the
City
have
been
identified
for
preservation
in
the
CV
MSHCP.
In
the
Sphere
of
Influence,
Desert
Saltbush
Scrub
occurs
on
soils
which
are
poorly
drained
and
have
high
salinity
or
alkalinity,
most
often
occurring
on
long-‐fallow
agricultural
lands.
In
addition
to
the
native
Big
Saltbush,
Allscale
and
Honey
Mesquite,
this
habitat
often
supports
non-‐native
alkali
tolerant
species.
Common
Native
Wildlife
Native
species
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
can
be
divided
into
two
types:
those
which
have
adapted
to
the
disturbed
sand
field,
saltbush
scrub,
agricultural
and
urban
development;
and
those
which
occur
in
the
less
disturbed
habitats
that
currently
exist
on
the
southern
and
western
edges
of
the
City
and
Sphere.
Insects
common
in
the
City
and
Sphere
include
Harvester
Ants,
Creosote
Bush
Grasshopper
and
Black
Widow
Spider.
Amphibians
include
California
Toad
and
Pacific
Tree
Frog;
while
the
Zebra-‐tailed
Lizard,
Desert
Horned
Lizard,
California
Kingsnake,
and
Colorado
Desert
Sidewinder
are
common
reptiles.
The
City
and
its
Sphere
also
support
a
number
of
native
birds,
including
the
House
Finch
and
House
Sparrow,
Abert’s
Towhee,
Mourning
Dove
and
Red-‐tailed
Hawk.
Common
mammals
include
the
Black-‐tailed
Jackrabbit,
Pocket
Mouse
and
California
Ground
Squirrel.
A
complete
listing
of
common
species
found
in
the
City
and
Sphere
is
available
in
the
General
Plan
EIR.
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
(FWS),
CDFG,
and
the
California
Native
Plant
Society
(CNPS)
all
maintain
lists
of
these
species.
The
Table
III-‐3
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.
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
III-‐28
Table
III-‐3
Special
Status
Species
Common
Name
Scientific
Name
Habitat
State
and
Local
Status
Federal
Status
Chaparral
Sand-‐Verbena
Abronia
villosa
var.
aurita
Sandy
areas; Chaparral/
Desertdunes
CNPS
List
1B.1
State:
S2.1
Glandular
Ditaxis
Ditaxis
claryana Sandy
habitats
Sonoran
Desert
scrub
0-‐465
meters
CNPS
List
2.2
State:
S1S2
California
Ditaxis
Ditaxis
serrata
var.
californica
Sonoran
Desert
Scrub CNPS
List
3.2
State:
S2.2
Flat-‐tailed
Horned
Lizard
Phyrnosoma
mcallii
Sandy
habitats
with
adjacent
hardpan,
often
sparsely
vegetated,
also
saltbush
habitats
State:
S2
CDFG:
CSC
CVMSHCP
Coachella
Valley
Fringe-‐toed
Lizard
Uma
inornata Sand
dunes,
sand
fields CDFG:
Endangered/S1
CVMSHCP
Threatened
Burrowing
Owl
Athene
cunicularia
Burrows/abandoned
Foundation
structures,
Creosote
Bush
&
Ruderal
Scrub
(edges
of
canals/agriculture)
State:
S2
CDFG:
CSC
CVMSHCP
Prairie
Falcon
Falco
mexicanus
Cliff
faces
(nesting),
Open
habitats
for
foraging
State:
S3
CDFG:
Watchlist
Black-‐tailed
Gnatcatcher
Polioptila
melanura
Desert
scrub
and
desert
wash
woodland
habitats
State:
S4
Loggerhead
Shrike
Lanius
ludovicianus
Fairly
common
in
a
variety
of
open
habitats
State:
S4
CDFG:
CSC
Western
Yellow
Bat
Lasiurus
xanthinus/ega
Primarily
roosts
in
the
dead
fronds
of
palms,
including
landscape
specimens
State:
S3
CDFG:
CSC
CVMSHCP
Pocketed
Free-‐
tailed
Bat
Nyctinomops
femorosaccus
Variety
of
arid
habitats
Desert
Scrub,
Palm
Oasis,
Desert
Wash,
roosts
in
rocky
cliffs
State:
S2S3
CDFG:
CSC
Palm
Springs
Round-‐tailed
Ground
Squirrel
Xerospermophilus
tereticaudus
chlorus
Desert
Scrub,
Desert
Wash,
Alkali
Scrub,
&
levees,
golf
course
edges
w/
adjacent
native
habitat
State:
S1S2
CDFG:
CSC
CVMSHCP
Candidate
Peninsular
Bighorn
Sheep
Ovis
canadensis
nelsoni
DPS
Lower
elevations
of
the
eastern
Peninsular
Ranges,
including
canyon
bottoms,
alluvial
fans,
and
mountain
slopes
Threatened
CVMSHCP
Endangered
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
III-‐29
Table
Legend
Habitat:
terrestrial
natural
community
descriptions
per
Holland
(1986)
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
(CNPS)
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
1B:
Plants
considered
rare
and
endangered
in
California
and
throughout
their
range.
All
of
the
plants
constituting
List
1B
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
the
California
Environmental
Quality
Act.
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
0.1
Seriously
threatened
in
California
(high
degree/immediacy
of
threat)
0.2
Fairly
threatened
in
California
(moderate
degree/immediacy
of
threat)
0.3
Not
very
threatened
in
California
(low
degree/immediacy
of
threat)
State
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
S5:
Community
demonstrably
secure
statewide
Where
two
ranks
are
given
(eg.
S1S2)
the
species’
rank
falls
between
the
two
ranks
Threat
Ranks
0.1:
Very
threatened
0.2:
Threatened
0.3:
No
current
threats
known
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
III-‐30
Seven
of
the
species
in
Table
III-‐3
are
not
covered
by
the
CV
MSHCP.
Each
is
briefly
described
below,
along
with
the
likelihood
of
its
occurrence
in
the
City
and
Sphere.
Glandular
Ditaxis
has
been
identified
at
two
locations
in
the
planning
area,
both
of
which
have
been
developed.
There
is
a
low
potential
for
the
occurrence
of
the
species
in
the
southern
and
western
edges
of
the
City
and
Sphere.
Spring
or
fall
surveys
are
required
for
the
species
following
sufficient
rainfall.
California
Ditaxis
occurs
in
dry
washes,
flood
plains
and
rocky
alluvial
fans.
It
was
previously
identified
west
of
Avenida
Montezuma
and
Calle
Nogales,
in
the
Cove.
There
is
a
moderate
to
high
potential
that
the
species
occurs
in
the
southern
and
western
areas
of
the
City.
Spring
surveys
are
required
for
the
species
following
sufficient
rainfall.
The
Burrowing
Owl
uses
burrows
dug
out
by
other
wildlife,
such
as
the
Kit
Fox,
Desert
Tortoise,
or
Ground
Squirrel;
it
also
uses
man-‐
made
structures
such
as
piles
of
rubble
or
tree
branches,
pipes
or
buildings.
The
species
is
a
protected
raptor
as
well
as
a
species
of
special
concern,
and
therefore
requires
CDFG
notification
and
approved
mitigation
prior
to
any
activity
which
might
impact
the
species.
The
species
has
the
potential
to
occur
throughout
the
City
and
Sphere,
where
undeveloped
or
fallow
land
occurs.
Site-‐specific
surveys
are
needed
to
identify
the
species.
The
Prairie
Falcon
is
a
medium
to
large
sized
migratory
raptor
which
winters
in
the
region.
Its
preferred
habitat
is
cliffs
or
steep
rock
ledges
in
the
western
and
southern
parts
of
the
City
and
its
Sphere.
Prairie
Falcons
have
been
identified
at
the
southwestern
end
of
the
City.
The
species
is
a
protected
raptor
as
well
as
a
species
of
special
concern,
and
therefore
requires
CDFG
notification
and
approved
mitigation
prior
to
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
III-‐31
any
activity
which
might
impact
the
species.
Site-‐specific
surveys
are
needed
to
identify
the
species.
The
Black-‐tailed
Gnatcatcher
is
a
small
resident
songbird
which
has
been
identified
at
two
locations
in
the
City,
and
which
is
likely
to
occur
in
the
western
and
southern
portions
of
the
City
and
its
Sphere.
Site-‐
specific
surveys
are
needed
to
identify
the
species.
The
Loggerhead
Shrike
is
reasonably
common
in
California,
but
has
been
significantly
depleted
in
other
parts
of
the
US.
It
occurs
in
undeveloped
areas,
the
hillsides
in
the
south
and
west,
and
on
the
edges
of
agricultural
fields.
No
specific
study
or
preservation
prescriptions
are
attached
to
the
species.
The
Pocketed
Free-‐tailed
Bat
has
large
ears
and
long
wings,
and
roosts
in
caves
crevices
and
cliffs.
It
is
likely
to
use
golf
courses
for
foraging
and
drinking.
Since
the
species
uses
rocky
terrain
in
the
Santa
Rosa
Mountains
for
its
roosts,
the
Open
Space
designation
applied
to
these
lands
should
protect
it
from
harm
within
the
City
and
its
Sphere.
Locations
where
the
species
above
have
been
sighted,
and
the
areas
requiring
species-‐specific
studies
are
shown
in
Exhibit
III-‐2.
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
III-‐32
THIS
PAGE
INTENTIONALLY
LEFT
BLANK
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
III-‐35
Coachella
Valley
Multiple
Species
Habitat
Conservation
Plan
(MSHCP)
The
Coachella
Valley
Multiple
Species
Habitat
Conservation
Plan
(MSHCP)
has
been
implemented
since
2008.
The
MSHCP
addresses
the
conservation
of
27
species
and
24
vegetation
communities
in
the
Coachella
Valley,
covering
more
than
1.2
million
acres.
The
MSHCP
has
two
primary
goals
–
to
balance
the
protection
of
the
natural
environment
with
the
economic
development
needs
of
the
Valley;
and
to
streamline
compliance
with
California
and
federal
endangered
species
regulations
and
permitting
for
the
species
covered
by
the
Plan.
The
MSHCP
includes
identified
conservation
areas
throughout
the
Valley.
In
La
Quinta,
conservation
areas
are
limited
to
lands
in
the
Santa
Rosa
Mountains
and
its
foothills.
The
MSHCP
quantifies
the
conservation
goals
for
La
Quinta,
as
follows:
2,545
acres
of
Essential
Habitat
for
the
Peninsular
bighorn
sheep
387
acres
of
Conserved
Habitat
for
the
Le
Conte’s
thrasher
1,409
acres
of
Conserved
Habitat
for
the
Desert
Tortoise
76
acres
of
desert
dry
wash
woodland
Conserve
occupied
burrowing
owl
burrows
as
provided
for
in
the
MSHCP
avoidance,
minimization
and
mitigation
measures.
Development
proposed
on
lands
which
are
not
designated
for
conservation
is
required
to
pay
a
mitigation
fee,
which
assures
that
funds
will
be
available
in
the
future
for
the
purchase
of
conservation
lands,
and
which
offsets
the
potential
impacts
of
that
development
on
the
natural
environment.
Streambeds
and
Blueline
Streams
The
primary
ephemeral
stream
through
the
City
is
the
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel,
known
as
the
Whitewater
River
west
of
Washington
Street.
The
Channel
qualifies
as
both
a
Water
of
the
State
of
California,
and
a
Water
of
the
United
States,
and
therefore
falls
under
the
jurisdiction
of
both
the
California
Department
of
Fish
and
Game
(CDFG)
and
the
US
Army
Corps
of
Engineers
(USACE).
Any
construction
activity
within
the
Channel
requires
consultation
with
both
CDFG
and
the
USACE
and
the
securing
of
permits
from
both
agencies.
A
number
of
smaller,
mostly
unnamed
streams
drain
from
the
Santa
Rosa
Mountains,
including
Bear
Creek,
which
enters
the
City
at
the
south
end
of
the
Cove.
These
drainage
courses
fall
under
the
jurisdiction
of
the
CDFG,
but
are
not
considered
“waters
of
the
United
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
III-‐36
States,”
as
defined
by
USACE.
Construction
activity
in
these
streams,
including
the
La
Quinta
Evacuation
Channel,
requires
consultation
with
CDFG,
and
may
require
a
permit
prior
to
the
initiation
of
work.
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
III-‐39
Migratory
Bird
Treaty
Act
Common
and
special
status
birds
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere
are
almost
all
protected
under
the
Migratory
Bird
Treaty
Act
(MBTA).
This
federal
law
prohibits
the
disturbance
of
nests,
eggs
or
incubating
birds
while
nests
are
active.
In
the
City,
the
nesting
period
generally
ranges
from
March
through
August.
Projects
undertaken
during
that
time
must
first
determine
if
active
nests
occur
in
trees
and
bushes
prior
to
removing
them.
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
The
City’s
native
biological
environment
on
the
Valley
floor
will
continue
to
shrink
as
development
occurs.
The
City’s
participation
in
the
MSHCP
will
help
to
offset
this
loss
by
acquiring
lands
regionally
for
preservation.
However,
the
City
can
support
the
preservation
of
native
species,
some
of
which
have
proven
to
be
adaptable
to
developed
conditions,
through
the
planting
of
native
plants
and
the
continued
use
of
drought
tolerant
landscaping
techniques,
which
do
not
significantly
increase
the
water
levels
in
the
soil.
The
City
must
also
assure
that
impacts
to
species
not
covered
by
the
MSHCP
do
not
significantly
affect
these
populations
by
requiring
site-‐
specific
surveys
for
those
species
as
development
is
proposed
in
their
habitats.
Fortunately,
the
majority
of
these
species
occur
at
the
base
of
the
Santa
Rosa
Mountains,
in
areas
which
are
to
be
conserved
under
the
MSHCP,
and
these
uncovered
species
will,
therefore,
receive
de
facto
protection.
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
BIO-‐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).
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.
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
III-‐40
Program
BIO-‐1.1.b:
For
lands
identified
by
the
MSHCP
as
slated
for
conservation
within
the
City,
the
Planning
Department
will
refer
land
owners
and
developers
to
the
Coachella
Valley
Association
of
Governments
and/or
Coachella
Valley
Conservation
Commission
for
guidance
and
permitting
assistance.
Program
BIO-‐1.1.c:
The
Planning
Department
will
maintain
maps
of
conservation
and
mitigation
fee
boundaries
for
the
MSHCP,
and
update
them
as
necessary.
Policy
BIO-‐1.2
Where
appropriate,
site-‐specific,
species-‐specific
surveys
shall
be
required
for
the
seven
species
not
covered
by
the
MSHCP.
Program
BIO-‐1.2.a:
The
Planning
Department
will,
in
conjunction
with
the
entitlement
process,
require
the
preparation
of
biological
resource
surveys
by
a
qualified
biologist
on
properties
identified
on
Exhibit
III-‐2
as
having
potential
habitat
for
the
following
species:
Glandular
Ditaxis,
California
Ditaxis,
Prairie
Falcon,
Black-‐tailed
Gnatcatcher,
Loggerhead
Shrike
and
Pocketed
Free-‐tailed
Bat,
if
the
development
proposal
occurs
in
an
area
identified
as
having
potential
for
the
species,
as
described
in
this
Element.
Program
BIO-‐1.2.b:
Prior
to
the
issuance
of
any
ground
disturbing
permit
for
qualifying
projects7
in
a
Conservation
Area,
the
City
will
require
a
protocol
compliant
survey
for
burrowing
owl,
in
compliance
with
the
MSHCP
Section
4.4.
Program
BIO-‐1.2.c:
Prior
to
the
issuance
of
any
ground
disturbing
permit
for
fallow
lands
outside
Conservation
areas,
the
City
will
require
protocol
compliant
surveys
for
burrowing
owl.
Policy
BIO-‐1.3
Publicly
owned
conservation
lands,
including
those
for
the
MSHCP,
shall
be
designated
as
Open
Space
on
the
Land
Use
Map.
7
Qualifying
projects
do
not
include
single
family
residences,
non-‐commercial
accessory
uses
and
structures
(including
but
not
limited
to
second
units
on
an
existing
legal
lot),
or
the
operation
and
maintenance
of
Covered
Activities
other
than
levees,
berms,
dikes,
and
similar
features
known
to
contain
burrowing
owl
burrows.
BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
III-‐41
Policy
BIO-‐1.4
Comply
with
the
requirements
of
the
Migratory
Bird
Treaty
Act
(MBTA).
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-‐1.5
Comply
with
the
regulatory
requirements
of
the
California
Department
of
Fish
and
Game,
the
US
Army
Corps
of
Engineers,
and
the
Regional
Water
Quality
Control
Board
as
they
relate
to
“waters
of
the
State
of
California”
and/or
“waters
of
the
United
States.”
Program
BIO-‐1.5.a:
Prior
to
the
initiation
of
any
project
within
any
defined
blueline
stream
as
identified
on
Exhibit
III-‐3,
the
City
will
require
that
consultation
and/or
permitting
by
CDFG
be
demonstrated
in
writing.
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.
Policy
BIO-‐1.7
Sensitive
habitat
areas,
including
conservation
areas
for
the
MSHCP,
should
be
buffered
from
urban
development
to
the
greatest
extent
possible.
Program
BIO-‐1.7.a:
Use
zoning
standards
and
the
design
review
process
to
assure
that
adequate
buffers
are
provided
in
environmentally
sensitive
areas.
CULTURAL
RESOURCES
III-‐43
CULTURAL
RESOURCES
PURPOSE
The
Cultural
Resources
Element
describes
prehistoric,
historic
and
paleontological
resources
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence.
The
City
has
a
rich
history
which
includes
Ancient
Lake
Cahuilla
and
its
fossilized
resources,
Native
American
settlements
and
activity,
and
European
settlement
in
more
recent
times.
The
resources
which
remain
from
each
of
these
time
periods
are
non -‐renewable,
and
the
continued
development
of
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
has
the
potential
to
negatively
impact
artifacts
and
fossils
which
may
occur
in
the
area.
This
Element
describes
the
area’s
history
and
provides
goals,
policies
and
programs
intended
to
assure
that
the
cultural
resources
which
have
been
identified,
and
those
resources
which
may
be
identified
in
the
future,
are
preserved.
BACKGROUND
Prehistoric
Context
It
is
believed
that
early
settlement
by
the
ancestors
of
the
region’s
current
Native
American
peoples,
the
Cahuilla,
occurred
as
early
as
1000
BC.
Anthropologists
have
divided
the
Cahuilla
into
three
groups
based
on
the
geographic
areas
they
occupied
–
the
Pass
Cahuilla
in
the
San
Gorgonio
Pass
and
Palm
Springs
area;
the
Mountain
Cahuilla
in
the
San
Jacinto
and
Santa
Rosa
Mountains
and
the
Cahuilla
Valley;
and
the
Desert
Cahuilla
of
the
eastern
Coachella
Valley.
The
early
Cahuilla
had
many
villages
in
the
area
and
lived
off
local
plants
and
animals
and
the
aquatic
food
available
in
ancient
Lake
Cahuilla.
Lake
Cahuilla
filled
and
receded
several
times,
with
its
last
stand
believed
to
be
about
1650.
In
addition
to
the
lake,
seasonal
springs
and
hand
dug
wells
provided
water
to
these
villages.
Prior
to
European
contact,
it
has
been
estimated
that
there
were
between
3,600
and
10,000
native
people
in
the
region.
CULTURAL
RESOURCES
III-‐44
The
first
Europeans,
Romero,
Estudillo
and
Pacheco,
traveled
through
the
Coachella
Valley
searching
for
a
route
to
what
is
now
Yuma
in
1823
through
1825.
These
explorations
did
not
yield
settlement,
however,
as
the
conditions
were
harsh.
The
explorers
used
the
trails
that
had
been
established
by
the
native
peoples.
The
first
US
Government
Land
Office
surveys
in
the
area
occurred
in
the
1850s.
At
that
time,
surveyors
identified
four
native
villages
in
and
near
present
day
La
Quinta.
With
the
arrival
of
European
explorers
and
settlers,
the
native
peoples
were
decimated
by
diseases
introduced
to
the
area,
particularly
smallpox,
for
which
they
had
no
immunity.
By
the
early
20th
century,
government
surveyors
could
not
locate
most
of
the
Cahuilla
villages
identified
in
the
1850s.
The
descendants
of
the
Pass
and
Desert
Cahuilla
are
now
associated
with
several
local
reservations,
including
the
Torres
Martinez,
Cabazon
and
Augustine
to
the
east
and
south
of
the
City,
and
the
Agua
Caliente
and
Morongo
to
the
west.
Historic
Context
In
1862,
William
David
Bradshaw
“discovered”
the
Cocomaricopa
Trail,
a
route
that
had
been
established
by
native
peoples,
and
ran
from
the
Agua
Caliente
Village
(at
present
day
Palm
Springs)
to
the
Pima
villages
in
the
area
of
La
Paz,
Arizona.
Renamed
the
Bradshaw
Trail,
it
roughly
followed
the
course
of
present
day
Highway
111
and
became
the
primary
route
between
Los
Angeles
and
the
Colorado
River
and
the
nearby
gold
fields
in
Arizona.
In
the
1870s,
the
completion
of
the
Southern
Pacific
Railroad
line,
including
stations
in
the
Coachella
Valley,
began
an
influx
of
settlers,
and
by
the
1880s,
public
land
was
opened
for
private
land
claims
by
a
series
of
federal
laws.
As
a
result,
a
substantial
farming
community
developed
in
the
Coachella
Valley.
The
early
farms
were
dependent
on
artesian
wells
and
similar
naturally
occurring
water
sources.
A
reliable
and
steady
water
source
was
not
available
in
the
Valley
until
1948,
with
the
completion
of
the
Coachella
Branch
of
the
All-‐American
Canal.
The
first
land
claims
in
the
La
Quinta
area
occurred
at
the
turn
of
the
20th
century.
By
the
1910s,
a
number
of
ranches
were
operating
in
the
area
of
present
day
La
Quinta,
including
the
Point
Happy
Ranch.
In
the
1920s,
the
tourism
industry
began
to
establish
itself
in
the
region.
The
La
Quinta
Hotel,
built
by
Walter
Morgan,
began
construction
in
1926.
The
resulting
first
class
hotel
and
its
grounds
made
the
hotel
a
favorite
of
Hollywood
stars
in
the
1930s.
Unlike
busy,
CULTURAL
RESOURCES
III-‐45
bustling
Palm
Springs,
the
La
Quinta
Hotel
was
considered
a
tranquil
getaway
for
the
discriminating
visitor,
and
it
attracted
both
celebrities
and
industrialists.
In
the
1930s,
Harry
Kiener
subdivided
the
Cove
neighborhood
and
marketed
adobe
cottages
as
“weekend
homes,”
marking
the
birth
of
the
first
residential
community
in
the
area
to
later
become
known
as
La
Quinta.
Following
World
War
II,
La
Quinta
and
the
Valley
continued
to
grow,
and
by
1982,
when
the
City
incorporated,
it
had
a
population
of
3,328
people.
Known
Prehistoric
&
Historic
Resources
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
The
City’s
location
in
and
around
ancient
Lake
Cahuilla
has
resulted
in
a
concentration
of
prehistoric
resources.
As
shown
in
Exhibit
III-‐4,
about
60%
of
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
have
been
surveyed
for
archaeological
resources,
yielding
over
500
recorded
archaeological
sites.
At
the
shoreline
of
ancient
Lake
Cahuilla,
which
is
believed
to
have
occurred
at
42
feet
above
sea
level,
a
concentration
of
pottery,
grinding
stones,
burned
animal
bones
and
other
remains
point
to
a
relatively
dense
population
of
native
peoples.
Sites
within
the
City
have
been
identified
as
being
from
1600
to
2300
years
ago.
Older
sites
have
been
identified
immediately
west
of
the
City
and
its
Sphere,
and
date
to
about
2700
years
ago.
In
addition
to
a
survey
of
historic
sites
by
the
County
of
Riverside
in
the
1980s,
the
City
first
undertook
its
own
survey
in
1996-‐1997.
The
resulting
inventory
listed
90
properties
of
historic
importance,
primarily
consisting
of
buildings
and
including
a
segment
of
the
original
Coachella
Canal.
The
La
Quinta
Hotel,
its
casitas
and
La
Casa
were
identified
as
eligible
for
listing
on
the
National
Register
of
Historic
Places,
along
with
other
locations
eligible
for
listing
on
the
State
Historic
Register.
The
City’s
survey
also
identified
the
Cove
(bounded
by
Calle
Tampico
on
the
north,
Avenida
Bermudas
on
the
east,
Calle
Tecate
on
the
south
and
Avenida
Montezuma
and
Bear
Creek
on
the
west)
as
a
potential
historic
district
eligible
for
local
designation.
An
update
to
the
City’s
survey
was
conducted
in
2006,
resulting
in
the
addition
of
183
buildings
to
the
California
Historical
Resources
Inventory,
bringing
the
total
to
280.
The
majority
of
these
are
single
family
homes
dating
mostly
to
the
1930s
and
1940s.
CULTURAL
RESOURCES
III-‐46
THIS
PAGE
INTENTIONALLY
LEFT
BLANK
CULTURAL
RESOURCES
III-‐49
Cultural
Resource
Areas
of
Sensitivity
The
large
number
of
resources
identified
to
date
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere
confirm
the
area’s
significance
for
Native
American
resources
and
historic
buildings
significant
to
the
area’s
early
development.
Areas
currently
in
agriculture
in
the
Sphere
of
Influence
cannot
be
discounted.
The
relatively
shallow
depth
at
which
agricultural
activities
occur
makes
it
possible
for
buried
resources
to
survive.
City
Programs
Relating
to
Cultural
Resources
The
City
adopted
a
Historic
Preservation
Ordinance
in
1991,
codified
in
Title
7
of
the
Municipal
Code.
The
ordinance
establishes
a
Historic
Preservation
Commission
to
advise
the
City
Council
on
matters
relating
to
archaeological
and
historic
resources,
and
a
historic
resources
inventory
and
designation
procedures.
In
1995,
the
City
became
a
Certified
Local
Government
under
the
State’s
enabling
legislation.
Under
this
program,
the
City
has
established
guidelines
and
standards
regarding
the
qualifications
of
archaeological
consultants,
and
implemented
programs
allowing
for
the
transfer
of
development
rights
and
the
use
of
the
State
Historic
Building
Code.
The
City
also
opened
its
museum,
located
on
Avenida
Montezuma
at
the
base
of
the
Cove.
It
provides
a
repository
for
a
number
of
historic
and
Native
American
resources
found
in
the
City,
as
well
as
exhibits
which
chronicle
the
development
of
La
Quinta
over
the
years.
Paleontological
Context
Paleontological
resources
are
the
fossilized
remains
of
ancient
plants
and
animals.
They
occur
in
older
soils
which
have
been
deposited
in
the
Valley
over
millions
of
years.
About
4
million
years
ago,
the
Salton
Trough,
in
which
the
Coachella
Valley
is
located,
was
part
of
the
Gulf
of
California,
and
extended
as
far
as
the
Painted
Hills,
northeast
of
the
current
City
of
Palm
Springs.
Eventually,
the
Salton
Trough
was
cut
off
from
the
Gulf
of
California
by
the
delta
of
the
Colorado
River.
Ancient
Lake
Cahuilla,
which
occurred
over
a
much
larger
area
than
the
current
Salton
Sea,
resulted
from
flooding
of
the
Colorado
River
and
receded
a
number
of
times.
This
process
left
behind
sediments
which
have
the
potential
to
have
buried
plant
and
animal
remains,
some
of
which
became
fossilized
over
time.
Freshwater
shells
from
the
last
stand
of
the
Lake
in
the
17th
century
are
found
on
the
surface
of
land
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
today.
CULTURAL
RESOURCES
III-‐50
In
general,
fossils
occur
in
soils
which
are
at
least
10,000
years
old,
referred
to
as
the
late
Pleistocene
Epoch.
Five
soil
units
have
been
identified
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere,
as
shown
in
Exhibit
III-‐5.
Mesozoic
Granitic
Rock
occurs
in
the
foothills
on
the
south
and
west
edges
of
the
City.
Granitic
Rock
has
a
low
potential
to
contain
paleontological
resources.
Pleistocene
and
Older
Alluvium
occurs
in
the
southwestern
corner
of
the
City,
at
the
base
of
the
Santa
Rosa
foothills.
Fossils
have
been
found
in
these
soils,
but
not
in
the
City
or
its
Sphere.
The
closest
locality
is
in
the
Indio
Hills,
to
the
northeast
of
the
City.
Pleistocene
soils
have
a
high
potential
to
yield
fossil
remains.
Lake
Cahuilla
Beds
occur
in
areas
where
ancient
Lake
Cahuilla
covered
the
Valley
floor.
Because
of
the
multiple
stands
of
the
ancient
lake,
these
soils
can
occur
in
layers,
intermixed
with
other
soils
which
were
blown
into
the
area
when
the
ancient
lake
was
dry.
Lakebed
sediments
have
yielded
freshwater
diatoms,
plants,
sponges,
mollusks,
and
fish,
as
well
as
small
animals.
Although
the
lakebed
soils
are
much
less
than
10,000
years
old,
they
hold
potentially
significant
information
on
the
area’s
early
ecological
history
and
have
a
high
potential
for
paleontological
resources.
Holocene
Alluvium
occurs
in
the
City’s
Cove
area
and
at
the
southernmost
edges
of
the
City.
These
soils
have
been
brought
into
the
area
by
flooding
in
the
mountains
and
are
too
recent
to
hold
fossil
remains.
They
have
a
low
potential
for
paleontological
resources.
Recent
Dune
Sand
occurs
north
of
Avenue
50
in
the
City.
This
soil
has
been
blown
into
the
area
by
regional
winds
and
recently
deposited.
Dune
Sand
varies
in
depth
and
could
overlay
older
alluvium
at
depth.
Because
of
its
recent
transport
into
the
area,
Dune
Sand
has
a
low
potential
for
paleontological
resources.
CULTURAL
RESOURCES
III-‐52
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
The
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
have
a
rich
and
varied
history.
Many
cultural
resources,
including
prehistoric,
historic
and
paleontological
resources,
have
been
catalogued
in
the
area.
The
City
has
demonstrated
its
commitment
to
its
history
through
the
establishment
of
its
Certified
Local
Government
program
and
the
opening
of
its
museum.
As
development
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere
continues
to
occur,
it
has
the
potential
to
impact
cultural
resources
which
have
not
yet
been
identified.
Further,
as
the
City
grows,
it
must
continue
to
reflect
on
the
importance
of
its
history
and
its
preservation
to
assure
that
these
resources,
which
ultimately
cannot
be
renewed,
are
not
lost
to
future
generations.
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
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-‐1.1.a:
Any
development
application
for
a
vacant
site,
or
a
site
previously
or
currently
used
for
agricultural
purposes,
shall
be
accompanied
by
a
Phase
I
archaeological
and/or
historic
analysis
conducted
by
a
qualified
archaeologist.
Such
analysis
shall
be
paid
for
by
the
project
proponent.
Program
CUL-‐1.1.b:
City
staff
will
maintain
open
channels
of
consultation
with
local
Native
American
tribes,
the
Eastern
Information
Center
at
the
University
of
California,
Riverside,
the
Historical
Society,
and
the
Coachella
Valley
History
Museum.
Program
CUL-‐1.1.c:
City
staff
shall
maintain
a
database
of
known
prehistoric
and
historic
resources
in
the
City.
CULTURAL
RESOURCES
III-‐53
Program
CUL-‐1.1.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.b:
Consider
the
use
of
all
potential
sources
of
funding
for
archaeological
and
historic
resource
preservation
funding,
including
regional,
state
and
federal
funds.
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.
Policy
CUL-‐1.3
Educate
the
public
about
the
City’s
history
and
paleontology.
Program
CUL-‐1.3.a:
Encourage
property
owners
and
others
to
nominate
qualified
properties
to
the
City’s
historic
inventory.
Program
CUL-‐1.3.b:
Continue
to
support
efforts
at
curation
and
exhibition
of
the
City’s
history.
Program
CUL-‐1.3.c:
Consider
expanding
collections
to
include
paleontological
resources.
Program
CUL-‐1.3.d:
Encourage
the
Desert
Sands
and
Coachella
Unified
School
Districts
to
include
local
history
and
paleontology
in
their
curricula.
Program
CUL-‐1.3.e:
Support
efforts
by
local
tribes
to
expand
the
knowledge
of
tribal
history
in
the
community.
CULTURAL
RESOURCES
III-‐54
Policy
CUL-‐1.4
Make
all
reasonable
efforts
to
identify
paleontological
resources
in
the
City.
Program
CUL-‐1.4.a:
Any
development
application
for
a
vacant
site
located
on
soils
identified
as
Lake
Cahuilla
Beds
or
Pleistocene
shall
be
accompanied
by
a
Phase
I
paleontological
analysis
conducted
by
a
qualified
geologist
or
paleontologist.
Program
CUL-‐1.4.b:
As
part
of
the
geotechnical
analysis
conducted
for
grading
and
building
permits,
soil
borings
shall
be
examined
by
a
qualified
geologist
or
paleontologist
to
assure
that
no
Pleistocene
or
older
soils
occur
at
depth
in
areas
to
be
excavated.
Monitoring
shall
be
required
if
Pleistocene
or
older
soils
will
be
impacted
by
excavations.
Policy
CUL-‐1.5
All
reasonable
efforts
should
be
made
to
preserve
paleontological
resources
in
the
City.
Program
CUL-‐1.5.a:
Significant
paleontological
resources
identified
on
a
site
shall
be
professionally
collected,
catalogued
and
deposited
with
a
recognized
repository.
CULTURAL
RESOURCES
III-‐55
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PAGE
INTENTIONALLY
LEFT
BLANK
WATER
RESOURCES
III-‐57
WATER
RESOURCES
PURPOSE
The
Water
Resources
Element
describes
water
supply
management
in
the
region
and
the
City.
It
is
important
to
note
that
the
aquifer
that
supplies
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
is
shared
with
the
other
communities
of
the
Coachella
Valley.
In
order
to
assure
that
everyone
in
the
region
has
sufficient
water,
it
is
important
that
La
Quinta,
as
one
of
the
stewards
of
the
local
water
supply,
manages
and
conserves
this
important
resource.
When
describing
water
resources,
this
Element
addresses
both
the
amount
of
water
available
for
use
in
the
City’s
homes
and
businesses
and
the
quality
of
that
water.
Water
supplies
in
the
City
are
managed
by
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District,
with
which
the
City
has
had
a
long
and
successful
relationship.
The
City’s
goals,
policies
and
programs
relating
to
water
resource
management
are
important
to
the
District’s
continued
ability
to
provide
domestic
water
to
new
and
existing
development
in
the
City
and
the
Sphere
of
Influence.
Government
Code
65302(d)
requires
that
all
General
Plans
include
a
conservation
component
to
assure
the
preservation
of
a
number
of
resources.
This
Water
Resources
Element
addresses
one
of
these
components.
Other
elements
which
relate
to
water
resources
include
the
Biological
Resources,
Land
Use,
Livable
Community,
and
Flooding
and
Hydrology
Elements.
BACKGROUND
Most
domestic
water
–
water
used
in
homes
and
businesses
–
is
pumped
from
an
under-‐ground
aquifer,
or
series
of
aquifers,
which
occur
below
most
of
the
Coachella
Valley.
The
aquifer
is
not
continuous
–
earthquake
faults,
rock
barriers,
and
other
naturally
occurring
breaks
create
barriers
between
the
sub-‐basins.
WATER
RESOURCES
III-‐58
The
Whitewater
River
sub-‐basin
is
the
Coachella
Valley’s
aquifer.
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
its
Sphere
of
Influence,
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
324,829
gallons).
The
sub-‐basin
is
illustrated
in
Exhibit
III-‐6.
The
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
(CVWD)
is
responsible
for
providing
domestic
and
irrigation
water
to
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence.
All
domestic
water
is
extracted
from
the
aquifer
through
a
system
of
wells,
which
CVWD
operates
throughout
its
District.
In
addition,
CVWD
imports
water
from
the
Colorado
River,
which
is
used
to
recharge
the
aquifer.
There
are
three
recharge
facilities
in
the
Valley:
one
located
northwest
of
Palm
Springs,
one
located
southeast
of
La
Quinta,
in
Martinez
Canyon;
and
one
located
in
La
Quinta,
south
of
Avenue
58,
and
west
of
Madison
Street.
A
detailed
description
of
the
geology
and
capacity
of
the
regional
aquifer
is
included
in
the
General
Plan
Environmental
Impact
Report.
Water
Demand
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.
The
subarea
has
been
in
overdraft
since
the
1980s,
prompting
CVWD
to
expand
its
recharge
facilities
and
conservation
efforts.
In
2009,
approximately
160,000
acre
feet
of
water
were
pumped
from
the
Lower
Thermal
subarea,
which
represents
a
decrease
in
water
production
over
1999
figures,
which
stood
at
168,300
acre
feet.
CVWD
also
estimates
that
natural
recharge,
groundwater
recharge
programs
and
similar
programs
returned
all
but
23,912
acre
feet
to
the
aquifer
–
resulting
in
an
overdraft
condition.
Although
CVWD
has
steadily
increased
its
recharge
of
the
groundwater
basin
(from
1,813
acre-‐feet
in
2000
to
21,735
acre-‐feet
in
2009),
drought
conditions
and
increased
demand
have
made
it
impossible
for
the
District
to
maintain
a
positive
recharge.
CVWD
plans
to
increase
recharge
efforts
as
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
continue
to
develop.
However,
increased
development
will
contribute
to
greater
demand
for
water
resources
and
the
potential
for
continued
overdraft.
WATER
RESOURCES
III-‐60
Water
Conservation
A
more
effective
manner
to
reduce
overdraft
in
the
aquifer
is
through
water
conservation.
The
City
and
CVWD
have
implemented
a
number
of
conservation
programs
in
recent
years
which
have
reduced
consumption
of
domestic
water.
It
is
critical
that
these
programs
continue
and
expand,
as
possible,
through
build
out
of
the
General
Plan.
Domestic
water
used
in
homes
and
businesses
is
sent
to
wastewater
treatment
plants
operated
by
CVWD.
A
portion
of
the
domestic
water
used
for
irrigation
is
returned
to
the
aquifer
when
it
penetrates
the
soil
and
percolates
back
to
its
source.
However,
irrigation
of
landscaping
is
the
largest
consumer
of
water
in
most
homes,
and
has
the
most
inefficient
return
to
the
water
table.
The
reuse
of
water
used
in
homes
for
irrigation
can,
therefore,
be
an
efficient
conservation
method.
CVWD
has
two
wastewater
treatment
plants
serving
the
City,
but
only
the
plant
which
serves
the
area
north
of
Miles
Avenue
currently
has
the
ability
to
generate
tertiary
treated
water
(reclaimed
water
which
can
be
used
for
irrigation,
but
is
not
potable).
That
plant
has
a
capacity
of
2.5
million
gallons
per
day
and
an
expansion
potential
to
7.5
million
gallons
per
day.
In
the
long
term,
the
expansion
of
tertiary
treated
water
facilities
to
serve
irrigation
needs
throughout
the
City
and
its
Sphere
will
be
critical
to
water
conservation
efforts.
The
City
has
also
implemented
water
conservation
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.
The
City
has
also
partnered
with
CVWD
in
conservation
programs
and
plans
to
continue
such
programs.
They
have
included
“smart
controllers”
for
landscaping
irrigation
in
the
past,
and
may
include
other
conservation
efforts
as
new
technology
develops.
CVWD
holds
seminars
and
workshops
relating
to
water
conservation
for
homeowners
and
landscape
professionals,
and
offers
rebates
and
discounts
for
the
installation
of
drought
tolerant
landscaping,
water
WATER
RESOURCES
III-‐61
efficient
sprinklers,
and
smart
controller
systems.
The
District
also
publishes
a
number
of
brochures
on
water
conservation,
which
are
available
to
the
public.
Sustainability
of
Water
Resources
CVWD’s
Urban
Water
Management
Plan
sets
forth
a
number
of
demand
management
measures
intended
to
achieve
water
conservation
goals
and
assure
that
water
supplies
are
managed
for
long-‐term
use.
As
part
of
the
overall
management
strategy
employed
by
CVWD,
conjunctive
use
management
will
assure
that
water
supplies
are
sustainable.
While
the
District
is
responsible
for
large-‐scale
groundwater
recharge
efforts,
the
City
of
La
Quinta
recognizes
that
land
use
development
patterns,
lot
coverage,
and
stormwater
runoff
within
the
planning
area
contribute
to
regional
water
conditions.
The
City
has
developed
goals,
policies,
and
programs
that
aim
to
achieve
water
use
efficiency
for
all
applications
(indoor
use
and
irrigation),
support
expansion
of
recycled
water
infrastructure
and
use,
and
prevent
contamination
of
water
supplies
through
the
use
of
best
management
practices
and
control
measures,
such
as
those
specific
to
the
NPDES
and
SWPPP
(see
below).
These
City
efforts,
as
well
as
ongoing
coordination
with
CVWD,
will
facilitate
the
responsible
and
sustainable
use
of
water
resources.
Surface
Water
The
City
is
subject
to
short
duration
rainfall
events
which
can
generate
significant
amounts
of
surface
water.
This
water
source
can
be
used
to
recharge
the
aquifer
through
the
installation
of
stormwater
retention
basins
on
development
projects.
The
City
requires
that
all
projects
contain
and
control
the
rain
water
which
flows
through
a
developed
site,
most
commonly
through
the
installation
of
retention
basins.
These
basins
are
usually
landscaped
and
allow
stormwater
to
percolate
into
the
ground.
Although
stormwater
retention
will
never
represent
a
significant
increase
in
aquifer
recharge
because
of
the
limited
amount
of
rain
which
falls
in
the
City,
it
will
continue
to
provide
some
increase
in
annual
recharge
efforts.
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
stormwaters
are
protected
from
pollutants.
The
City’s
NPDES
permits
include:
1)
Storm
Water
Pollution
Prevention
Plans
(SWPPP),
and
2)
Water
Quality
Management
Plans
(WQMP),
which
are
engineering
plans
that
must
be
submitted
and
approved
by
the
Public
WATER
RESOURCES
III-‐62
Works
Department
prior
to
construction.
These
plans
identify
the
specific
measures,
or
Best
Management
Practices,
that
will
be
taken
by
the
developer
to
prevent
storm
water
pollution
before,
during,
and
after
construction.
A
complete
discussion
of
stormwater
and
stormwater
pollution
prevention
is
included
in
the
Flooding
and
Hydrology
Element.
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
The
build
out
of
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
could
add
more
than
53,000
housing
units
and
almost
13
million
square
feet
of
commercial
and
industrial
space
to
the
area.
All
new
development
will
require
domestic
water
for
interior
use
and
landscaping
irrigation
and
will
increase
the
demand
on
limited
water
resources.
The
City
has
already
implemented
water
conservation
efforts
and
will
need
to
continue
and
expand
these
efforts
to
protect
its
water
resources.
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
WR-‐1
The
efficient
use
and
conservation
of
the
City’s
water
resources.
Policy
WR-‐1.1
Support
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
in
its
efforts
to
supply
adequate
domestic
water
to
residents
and
businesses.
Program
WR-‐1.1.a:
The
City
shall
continue
to
implement
its
Water
Efficient
Landscaping
Ordinance
and
Building
Codes,
and
update
them
as
needed
to
meet
or
exceed
State
standards
for
water
efficiency
and
conservation.
Program
WR-‐1.1.b:
Continue
to
work
with
CVWD
to
implement
independent
and
joint
programs,
rebates,
and
discounts
that
promote
water
conservation,
subject
to
available
funding.
Policy
WR-‐1.2
Support
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
in
its
efforts
to
recharge
the
aquifer.
Program
WR-‐1.2.a:
Support
CVWD’s
efforts
to
increase
recharge
at
its
La
Quinta
facility
and
elsewhere
in
its
district.
WATER
RESOURCES
III-‐63
Program
WR-‐1.2.b:
Work
with
CVWD
to
implement
new
or
improved
recharging
techniques
in
golf
course
and
lake
design,
turf
and
agricultural
irrigation
methods,
and
the
use
of
tertiary
treated
water
for
irrigation
and
other
uses.
Policy
WR-‐1.3
Support
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
in
its
efforts
to
expand
tertiary
treated
(i.e.
reclaimed)
water
distribution.
Program
WR-‐1.3.a:
Work
with
CVWD
to
provide
tertiary
treated
water
for
future
recreational
facilities
and
landscaping
irrigation
to
the
greatest
extent
possible.
Policy
WR-‐1.4
Protect
stormwater
from
pollution
and
encourage
its
use
to
recharge
the
aquifer.
Program
WR-‐1.4.a:
Implement
federal,
regional
and
local
standards
pertaining
to
the
discharge
and
treatment
of
pollutants
in
surface
water
for
all
development
projects.
Program
WR-‐1.4.b:
Coordinate
with
CVWD
in
its
review
of
projects
which
impact
drainage
channels.
Program
WR-‐1.4.c:
Require
on-‐site
retention
for
new
development
projects
to
the
greatest
extent
possible,
to
provide
added
recharge
of
the
aquifer.
Policy
WR-‐1.5
Development
within
drainage
areas
and
stormwater
facilities
shall
be
limited
to
recreational
uses
such
as
golf
courses,
lakes,
sports
or
play
fields
and
similar
uses.
Policy
WR-‐1.6
Encourage
the
use
of
permeable
pavements
in
residential
and
commercial
development
projects.
WATER
RESOURCES
III-‐64
RELATED
GOALS
As
described
above,
this
Element
relates
to
others
in
this
General
Plan.
The
following
goals
and
their
associated
policies
and
programs
are
closely
related
to
those
of
this
Element.
GOAL
UTL-‐1:
Domestic
water
facilities
and
services
which
adequately
serve
the
existing
and
long-‐term
needs
of
the
City.
GOAL
FH-‐1:
Protection
of
the
health,
safety
and
welfare
of
the
community
from
flooding
and
hydrological
hazards.
WATER
RESOURCES
III-‐65
THIS
PAGE
INTENTIONALLY
LEFT
BLANK
OPEN
SPACE
AND
CONSERVATION
III-‐67
OPEN
SPACE
AND
CONSERVATION
PURPOSE
Some
of
La
Quinta’s
greatest
assets
are
its
scenic
mountain
vistas
and
wilderness
areas.
The
Open
Space
Element
helps
to
protect
these
and
other
assets
by
designating
policies
and
programs
for
their
management
and
conservation.
These
policies
and
programs
are
designed
to
discourage
the
premature
or
inappropriate
conversion
of
open
space
land
to
more
intense
land
uses.
They
are
intended
to
assure
the
long-‐term
viability
of
open
space
lands
for
resource
conservation,
public
health
and
safety,
recreation,
and
scenic
enjoyment.
Government
Code
Section
65560(b)
defines
open
space
as
“any
parcel
or
area
of
land
or
water
which
is
essentially
unimproved
and
devoted
to
an
open-‐space
use.”
These
lands
typically
include
rivers,
streams,
managed
agricultural
lands,
mineral
resources,
parks
and
recreational
lands,
and
lands
dedicated
for
the
preservation
of
biological
or
other
natural
resources.
Government
Code
Section
65302(d)
requires
that
General
Plans
include
elements
which
address
resource
conservation
and
designate
lands
for
preservation.
Government
Code
Section
65566,
also
referred
to
as
the
Open
Space
Lands
Act,
requires
local
governments
to
prepare
open
space
plans
before
adopting
open
space
zoning
ordinances.
This
helps
to
assure
that
open
space
zoning
regulations
are
consistent
with
open
space
plans.
OPEN
SPACE
AND
CONSERVATION
III-‐68
BACKGROUND
Because
the
Open
Space
Element
addresses
a
broad
range
of
issues,
its
policies
and
programs
are
interwoven
with
many
other
General
Plan
elements,
including
Sustainability,
Land
Use,
Parks
and
Recreation,
Circulation,
Biological
Resources,
and
Environmental
Hazards.
In
addition,
the
Open
Space
Element
complements
the
Coachella
Valley
Multi-‐Species
Habitat
Conservation
Plan
(MSHCP)
by
providing
protection
for
lands
which
may
be
identified
as
containing
important
wildlife
habitat.
Open
Space
Resources
Undeveloped
open
space
areas
located
along
the
Santa
Rosa
and
San
Jacinto
Mountains
and
their
foothills
constitute
about
half
of
the
valuable
biological,
recreational,
and
scenic
resources
enjoyed
by
residents
and
visitors
in
the
City
of
La
Quinta,
with
the
remainder
generally
consisting
of
the
City’s
storm
water
management
system,
public
and
private
golf
courses,
public
parks,
and
related
areas.
Approximately
19.1
square
miles
of
open
space
land
are
identified
within
the
General
Plan
Land
Use
Map.
!"#$%&"'(#%)'$*%+,#,%-$%)'%./-$0'1%-$%2(3#,
456
476
8696
:'0#3%;%<=>>*"='-$
?'0/3'=%!"#$%&"'(#
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C'3D,%'$*%E#(3#'0->$
Open
Space
for
the
Preservation
of
Natural
Resources
About
half
of
the
lands
dedicated
for
open
space
in
La
Quinta
have
been
set
aside
for
the
preservation
of
natural
resources.
Most
of
this
area
is
located
within
the
Santa
Rosa
and
San
Jacinto
Conservation
Area,
is
protected
through
a
deed
restriction,
or
has
development
limitations
under
the
MSHCP.
About
84%
of
the
City’s
General
Plan
area
located
within
the
MSHCP
conservation
boundary
is
currently
OPEN
SPACE
AND
CONSERVATION
III-‐69
designated
as
open
space,
with
the
remainder
identified
as
low
density
residential.8
In
the
southwestern
portion
of
La
Quinta,
the
Coachella
Valley
Multi-‐
Species
Habitat
Conservation
Plan
(MSHCP)
has
identified
most
of
the
Low
Density
Residential
parcels
located
within
Section
5,
Township
7S,
Range
7E
for
preservation
and
habitat
acquisition.
This
undeveloped
section
of
the
City,
which
contains
the
only
residentially-‐designated
lands
located
within
the
MSHCP
conservation
boundary,
generally
consists
of
Sonoran
Creosote
Bush
Scrub
and
provides
valuable
habitat
for
special
status
species,
such
as
Burrowing
Owl
and
Peninsular
Bighorn
Sheep,
as
identified
in
the
Biological
Resources
Element.
The
MSHCP
permits
these
lands,
if
not
acquired
by
a
conservation
agency,
to
develop
up
to
10%,
while
the
balance
of
the
parcel
must
be
preserved
in
its
natural
condition.9
Approximately
105
acres
of
land
within
Section
5
has
been
acquired
for
the
preservation
of
natural
resources
by
local
and
state
conservation
agencies.
Open
Space
for
the
Managed
Production
of
Resources
La
Quinta’s
open
space
element
also
designates
lands
for
the
managed
production
of
resources.
The
Sphere
of
Influence
primarily
contains
agricultural
lands
and
has
the
potential
for
additional
properties
to
be
set
aside
in
the
future
for
the
managed
production
of
resources.
Approximately
582
acres
of
land,
all
located
within
the
City’s
Sphere
of
Influence,
have
been
set
aside
for
farmland
conservation
under
the
Williamson
Act
provisions.
Officially
titled
the
California
Land
Conservation
Act
of
1965,
the
Williamson
Act
provides
property
tax
relief
to
owners
of
farmland
and
open-‐space
land
in
exchange
for
a
ten-‐year
agreement
that
the
land
will
not
be
developed
or
otherwise
converted
to
another
use.
There
are
no
active
or
permitted
quarries
identified
within
the
General
Plan
area.
8
CVMSHCP,
Table
4-‐110.
9
CVMSHCP
Vol.1
Sec.
4,
p.4-‐154.
OPEN
SPACE
AND
CONSERVATION
III-‐70
Open
Space
for
Recreation
The
remaining
areas
in
the
City
generally
consist
of
land
set
aside
for
Recreational
Open
Space,
such
as
City
and
regional
parks
and
golf
courses.
The
City
of
La
Quinta
operates
11
parks
and
shares
two
sports
facilities
with
Desert
Sands
Unified
School
District.
The
City
also
contains
two
regional
parks.
The
6.5
acre
La
Quinta
Community
Park,
located
in
the
Village,
is
managed
by
the
Desert
Recreational
District,
while
the
710
acre
Lake
Cahuilla
Regional
Park,
located
in
the
southern
portion
of
the
City,
is
managed
by
the
Riverside
County
Parks
Department.
In
addition
to
these
larger
parks,
small
“pocket
parks”
are
located
throughout
the
City,
within
individual
subdivisions.
In
addition
to
City
Parks,
the
City
of
La
Quinta
holds
146.7
acres
of
open
space
land
dedicated
for
the
joint
purpose
of
conservation
and
recreation.
These
areas
include
the
27.9
acre
Fred
Wolff
Bear
Creek
Nature
Preserve,
the
114
acre
Cove
Oasis
Trailhead,
and
the
4.75
acre
Bear
Creek
Trail.
These
areas
provide
an
urban
buffer
and
a
trail
connection
between
the
City
and
the
Santa
Rosa
and
San
Jacinto
National
Monument.
As
La
Quinta
is
a
well-‐known
golfing
destination,
there
are
23
public
and
private
golf
courses
located
within
the
City,
most
of
which
are
located
within
residential
areas.
La
Quinta
has
one
municipal
golf
course,
SilverRock
Resort,
and
another
seven
private
golf
courses
available
for
public
play.
All
golf
courses
are
identified
as
open
space
in
the
General
Plan’s
land
use
map.
Open
Space
for
Public
Health
and
Safety
Due
to
La
Quinta’s
geographical
setting
at
the
foot
of
the
Santa
Rosa
and
San
Jacinto
Mountains,
some
properties
are
undevelopable
due
to
engineering
and
safety
limitations,
or
have
been
designated
for
the
purposes
of
flood
control
and
storm
water
conveyance.
These
lands
have
been
set
aside
as
open
space
dedicated
to
protect
public
health
and
safety.
Table
III-‐4
La
Quinta
City
and
Regional
Parks
Park Acreage
Adams
Park
3.5
Civic
Center
Campus
17.5
Desert
Pride
Park
1
Eisenhower
Park
0.5
Fritz
Burns
Park
12
La
Quinta
Park
18
Monticello
Park
4
Saguaro
Park
.75
Season’s
Park
5
Velasco
Park
.25
Pioneer
Park
2
Lake
Cahuilla
County
Park
710
La
Quinta
Community
Park
6.5
Total
Park
Acreage
781
OPEN
SPACE
AND
CONSERVATION
III-‐71
All
lands
having
a
twenty
percent
slope
or
greater
have
been
designated
as
open
space
in
order
to
protect
the
public
from
hazards
associated
with
hillside
development,
including
seismic
activity,
landslides,
flooding,
inaccessibility
for
fire
and
emergency
services,
lack
of
water
for
fire
control,
wildfires,
collapse
of
roads
and
similar
risks.
About
6%
of
the
open
space
lands
designated
within
La
Quinta
have
specifically
been
dedicated
for
purposes
of
flood
control
and
water.
These
areas
are
connected
to
a
regional
conveyance
system
managed
by
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District,
and
include
the
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel,
the
La
Quinta
Evacuation
Channel,
the
All-‐
American
Canal,
the
Upper
Bear
Creek
Drainage
System,
the
Lake
Cahuilla
Reservoir,
and
the
East
La
Quinta
Channel.
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
The
General
Plan
land
use
map
is
anticipated
to
result
in
a
potential
build-‐out
population
of
about
134,352
in
the
City
and
its
sphere
of
influence.
The
General
Plan
accommodates
this
growth
by
identifying
12,193
acres
(19.1
square
miles)
of
total
open
space
lands.
Open
Space
lands
are
divided
into
two
categories
on
the
General
Plan
land
use
map,
Recreational
Open
Space
and
Natural
Open
Space.
Recreational
Open
Space
consists
of
public
parks
and
golf
courses,
while
Natural
Open
Space
consists
of
wilderness
and
natural
resources
and
water
and
flood
control
facilities.
Thoughtful
implementation
of
the
General
Plan,
Zoning
Ordinance
and
other
regulatory
mechanisms
will
be
required
to
assure
the
long-‐term
preservation
of
open
spaces.
The
City
and
other
conservation
organizations
can
play
an
important
role
in
acquiring
federal
and
state
grants
and
other
funding
mechanisms
for
the
purchase
of
conservation
easements
and/or
fee
simple
land
ownership
interests.
The
City
also
has
the
opportunity
to
encourage
residents
and
other
agencies
to
become
involved
in
open
space
preservation.
On-‐going
efforts
between
the
City,
Coachella
Valley
Association
of
Governments
(CVAG),
Bureau
of
Land
Management,
National
Forest
Service,
adjoining
communities,
and
private
entities
are
necessary
for
the
continued
conservation
of
local
and
regional
open
space
resources.
OPEN
SPACE
AND
CONSERVATION
III-‐72
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
OS-‐1
Preservation,
conservation
and
management
of
the
City’s
open
space
lands
and
scenic
resources
for
enhanced
recreational,
environmental
and
economic
purposes.
Policy
OS-‐1.1
Identify
and
map
lands
suitable
for
preservation
as
passive
and
active
open
space.
Program
OS-‐1.1.a:
Identify
lands
suitable
for
preservation
as
natural
open
space
on
the
General
Plan
Land
Use
map.
Program
OS-‐1.1.b:
Confer
with
adjoining
communities
and
other
responsible
agencies
to
periodically
review
and
update
information
on
regional
open
space,
and
to
coordinate
preservation
efforts.
Policy
OS-‐1.2
Continue
to
develop
a
comprehensive
multi-‐purpose
trails
network
to
link
open
space
areas.
Program
OS-‐1.2.a:
Coordinate
with,
and
obtain
approval
from,
local
utility
providers,
including
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District,
to
use
flood
control
and
utility
easements
as
a
trails
network
which
links
open
space
and
recreation
areas.
Program
OS-‐1.2.b:
Continue
to
coordinate
with
neighboring
communities
and
other
appropriate
agencies
in
developing
local
and
regional
trail
connections
across
open
space
lands.
Program
OS-‐1.2.c:
Explore
opportunities
for
additional
trails
connectivity
adjacent
to
and
along
watercourses,
irrigation
canals,
and
flood
control
improvements
Policy
OS-‐1.3
The
City
shall
encourage
community
involvement
and
volunteerism
in
open
space
maintenance
and
improvement
as
a
means
to
leverage
local
funds,
improve
open
space,
and
increase
public
awareness
of
the
City’s
Open
Space
areas.
OPEN
SPACE
AND
CONSERVATION
III-‐73
GOAL
OS-‐2
Good
stewardship
of
natural
open
space
and
preservation
of
open
space
areas.
Policy
OS-‐2.1
Unique
and
valuable
biological
resources
should
be
preserved
as
open
space,
to
the
greatest
extent
practical.
Program
OS-‐2.1.a:
Continue
to
implement
the
Coachella
Valley
Multi-‐Species
Habitat
Conservation
Plan.
Program
OS-‐2.1.b:
In
conjunction
with
the
entitlement
process,
the
City
shall
require
the
preparation
of
a
biological
resource
survey
by
a
qualified
biologist
for
all
development
proposed
within
designated
open
space
land.
Policy
OS-‐2.2
Where
appropriate,
geological
hazard
zones,
including
but
not
limited
to
earthquake
fault
lines,
areas
susceptible
to
liquefaction,
floodways,
and
unstable
slopes
should
be
preserved
as
open
space.
Policy
OS-‐2.3
Encourage
the
preservation
of
open
space
in
privately
owned
development
projects.
Program
OS-‐2.3.a:
Utilize
flexible
development
standards,
density
incentives,
and/or
other
means
to
encourage
the
provision
of
open
space
in
new
planned
developments.
GOAL
OS-‐3
Preservation
of
scenic
resources
as
vital
contributions
to
the
City’s
economic
health
and
overall
quality
of
life.
Policy
OS-‐3.1
To
the
greatest
extent
possible,
prohibit
development
on
lands
designated
as
open
space
which
are
elevated
and
visually
prominent
from
adjacent
developed
areas
or
are
located
within
or
in
close
proximity
to
areas
identified
as
critical
wildlife
habitat.
Program
OS-‐3.1.a:
Continue
to
implement
the
Hillside
Preservation
Ordinance.
OPEN
SPACE
AND
CONSERVATION
III-‐74
Program
OS-‐3.1.b:
Minimize
the
loss
of
open
space
resources.
Policy
OS-‐3.2
Any
development
that
is
permitted
within
areas
designated
as
Open
Space
should
minimize
grading
for
structures
and
access
and
should
be
visually
subordinate
to
and
compatible
with
surrounding
landscape
features.
Policy
OS-‐3.3
Explore
and
utilize
a
variety
of
measures
to
preserve
privately
owned
properties
within
hillside
and
alluvial
fan
areas,
including
private
covenants,
deed
restrictions,
and
land
transfers.
Program
OS-‐3.3.a:
Identify
agencies
and
property
owners
which
hold
fee
simple
title
to
properties
located
in
hillside
and
alluvial
fan
areas,
and
encourage
agreements
which
assure
that
such
lands
remain
undeveloped
in
perpetuity.
RELATED
GOALS
As
described
above,
this
Element
relates
to
others
in
this
General
Plan.
The
following
goals
and
their
associated
policies
and
programs
are
closely
related
to
those
of
this
Element.
GOAL
PR-‐1:
A
comprehensive
system
of
parks,
and
recreation
facilities
and
services
that
meet
the
active
and
passive
needs
of
all
residents
and
visitors.
GOAL
SC-‐1:
A
community
that
provides
the
best
possible
quality
of
life
for
all
its
residents.
GOAL
FH-‐1:
Protection
of
the
health,
safety
and
welfare
of
the
community
from
flooding
and
hydrological
hazards.
Chapter
IV
ENVIRONMENTAL
HAZARDS
NOISE
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS
NOISE
IV-‐1
NOISE
PURPOSE
The
Noise
Element
addresses
the
City’s
current
and
future
noise
environment.
As
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
continue
to
develop,
additional
development
will
generate
noise
from
many
sources,
ranging
from
air
conditioning
units
to
automobiles.
This
Element
identifies
areas
where
noise
levels
are
expected
to
reach
unacceptable
levels,
and
provides
policies
and
programs
which
will
assure
that
noise
levels
do
not
negatively
impact
the
community.
Government
Code
Section
65032(f)
requires
that
cities
evaluate
their
noise
environments,
address
the
potential
hazards
associated
with
high
noise
levels
and
set
standards
for
acceptable
and
unacceptable
noise
levels.
The
City
is
also
allowed
to
set
standards
for
noise
under
the
California
Environmental
Quality
Act
(CEQA).
These
standards
can
help
the
City
identify
projects
which
could
significantly
impact
noise
levels,
and
require
that
the
projects
lower
their
noise
levels.
The
Noise
Element
is
most
closely
related
to
the
Land
Use
and
Circulation
Elements.
In
the
case
of
the
Land
Use
Element,
the
location
of
uses
which
create
more
noise
–
such
as
commercial
shopping
centers
–
can
impact
noise
levels
in
residential
neighborhoods,
schools
and
other
“sensitive
receptors.”
The
Circulation
Element
is
closely
tied
to
the
Noise
Element
because
the
noise
created
by
traffic
is
and
will
continue
to
be
the
single
largest
source
of
noise
in
the
City.
The
distribution
and
smooth
flow
of
traffic,
therefore,
is
critical
to
the
City’s
noise
environment.
BACKGROUND
Noise
is
defined
as
an
unwanted
sound
and
can
have
serious
physiological
and
psychological
effects
on
people,
ranging
from
the
disturbance
of
sleep
to
hearing
loss.
In
order
to
prevent
these
negative
effects,
a
number
of
tools
are
available
to
cities,
particularly
when
they
consider
new
development
proposals.
NOISE
IV-‐2
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
structure
of
the
human
ear
causes
us
to
perceive
that
a
sound
that
is
10
dB
higher
than
another
is
twice
as
loud.
The
chart
below
illustrates
loudness
and
its
subjective
impact
on
people.
The
amount
of
noise
in
a
community
at
any
given
time
is
called
the
ambient
noise
level.
It
consists
of
the
total
of
all
noise
sources
–
traffic,
birdsong,
conversations
and
other
noises
–
at
any
given
time
during
the
day.
There
are
two
classifications
of
the
sources
of
noise:
line
sources,
which
include
traffic
noise;
and
point
sources,
which
are
fixed
sources
such
as
air
conditioners.
Both
sources
can
be
affected
by
surrounding
conditions.
“Soft
site”
conditions,
such
as
vegetation,
absorb
noise
and
reduce
its
potential
impact.
“Hard
site”
conditions,
such
as
walls
and
buildings,
can
block
noise
but
can
also
cause
it
to
reverberate.
In
addition,
distance
reduces
noise
levels
–
a
doubling
of
the
distance
NOISE
IV-‐3
between
a
person
and
a
noise
source
reduces
noise
by
about
4.5
dBA.
Soft
and
hard
site
conditions
and
distance
are
all
used
to
determine
the
level
of
noise
that
reaches
the
human
ear
from
the
source.
Noise
Sources
in
La
Quinta
In
La
Quinta,
traffic
noise
is
the
most
common
source
of
noise.
The
level
of
noise
from
traffic
is
directly
affected
by
the
mix
of
vehicles
on
the
road
–
when
heavy
trucks
make
up
a
larger
share
of
the
traffic,
traffic
noise
is
higher
than
when
traffic
is
composed
entirely
of
automobiles.
Also
contributing
to
noise
levels
are
commercial
activities,
including
air
compressors
and
commercial
compactors,
landscaping
maintenance
equipment,
and
daily
activities.
In
the
Sphere
of
Influence,
aircraft
noise
from
operations
at
the
Jacqueline
Cochran
Regional
Airport
can
also
affect
the
noise
environment.
Although
not
a
heavily
used
airport,
takeoff
and
landing
operations
can
impact
the
residential
land
uses
in
the
Sphere.
As
the
City
and
the
Sphere
of
Influence
areas
build
out,
and
traffic
levels
increase,
ambient
noise
levels
can
also
be
expected
to
go
up.
Careful
planning
is
required
to
assure
that
residents
are
not
negatively
affected.
Noise
Sensitivity
The
term
“sensitive
receptor”
is
used
to
identify
land
uses
which
are
more
impacted
by
noise
than
others.
They
include
residential
uses,
schools
and
libraries,
hospitals
and
nursing
homes.
Moderately
sensitive
uses
include
parks
and
golf
courses,
hotels
and
motels.
The
location
of
uses
which
are
sensitive
to
noise
in
relation
to
noise
generators,
such
as
shopping
centers
and
airports,
must
be
considered
in
the
Land
Use
Map.
Community
Noise
Equivalent
Level
(CNEL)
California
Health
and
Safety
Code
Section
46026
establishes
standards
for
local
noise
ordinances
to
help
identify
appropriate
noise
levels
for
various
land
uses.
It
uses
the
Community
Noise
Equivalent
Level
(CNEL),
which
averages
noise
levels
over
a
24-‐hour
period.
The
CNEL
scale
is
weighted
to
recognize
that
noise
is
more
evident
during
the
more
quiet
evening
and
nighttime
periods.
Because
the
ambient
noise
level
is
lower
in
the
evening
and
at
night,
sounds
appear
to
be
louder.
The
CNEL
scale
has
been
used
to
develop
acceptable
ranges
of
noise
for
a
broad
range
of
land
uses,
ranging
from
single-‐family
homes
to
industrial
uses.
Acceptable
noise
levels
under
this
model
increase
as
NOISE
IV-‐4
the
sensitivity
of
the
land
use
decreases,
so
that
louder
noise
environments
are
considered
acceptable
at
shopping
centers,
and
more
quiet
noise
environments
are
required
for
hotels.
Existing
Noise
Levels
The
primary
source
of
noise
in
the
City
and
Sphere
is
traffic.
In
order
to
determine
noise
levels
throughout
the
City
and
Sphere,
a
noise
analysis
was
conducted
for
this
General
Plan
(it
is
included
in
its
entirety
in
the
Appendix
of
the
General
Plan
EIR).
This
analysis
includes
the
monitoring
of
noise
levels
at
20
locations.
Table
IV-‐1
shows
the
results
of
24-‐hour
monitoring
at
seven
locations,
while
Table
IV-‐2
shows
the
current
short-‐term
noise
levels
at
13
additional
locations.
NOISE
IV-‐5
Table
IV-‐1
Existing
24-‐Hour
Noise
Levels
at
Monitored
Locations
Receptor
Location
Description
Time
Of
Measure-‐
ment
Primary
Noise
Source
Hourly
Noise
Levels
(Leq
dBA)
Daily
Noise
Levels
(dBA
CNEL)
L1
Located
north
of
Westward
Ho
Drive
at
La
Quinta
Park
across
from
the
La
Quinta
High
School
baseball
fields.
February
2-‐3,
2011
Traffic
on
Westward
Ho
Drive,
Park
Activities,
Activities
at
La
Quinta
High
School
44.9
-‐
63.6
60.2
L2
Located
north
of
Highway
111
on
southern
portion
of
the
commercial
center
west
of
La
Quinta
Drive.
February
2-‐3,
2011
Traffic
on
Highway
111
50.4
-‐
64.1
65.3
L3
Located
near
the
Washington
St.
and
Via
Marquessa
intersection
adjacent
to
the
existing
medical
offices.
February
2-‐3,
2011
Traffic
on
Washington
Street
58.1
-‐
71.6
72.7
L4
Located
north
of
the
Coachella
Drive
and
Eisenhower
Drive
intersection
at
the
Legacy
Villas
of
La
Quinta.
February
2-‐3,
2011
Traffic
on
Eisnhower
Drive,
Ambient
47.6
-‐
56.1
59.3
L5
Located
next
to
the
Crab
Pot
Restaurant
on
Avenida
La
Fonda
in
"The
Village".
February
2-‐3,
2011
Traffic
on
Ave.
La
Fonda,
Ambient
within
"The
Village"
43.1
-‐
65.4
58.9
L6
Located
northeast
of
the
52nd
Avenue
and
Jefferson
Street
intersection
at
land
uses
proposed
as
multi-‐family
residential.
February
2-‐3,
2011
Traffic
on
52nd
Ave.
and
Jefferson
St.
48.7
-‐
60.3
62.2
L7
Located
on
the
northeast
corner
of
the
intersection
of
Jackson
Street
and
50th
Avenue
near
the
existing
single-‐
family
homes.
February
2-‐3,
2011
Traffic
on
Jackson
St.
52.6
-‐
72.6
71.4
The
noisiest
locations
monitored
for
a
24-‐hour
period
are
on
Washington
Street
in
the
City
and
Jackson
Street
in
the
Sphere
of
Influence.
These
noise
levels
can
be
attributed
to
vehicular
traffic
on
NOISE
IV-‐6
Washington
and
Jackson
Streets.
The
Daily
Noise
Level
represents
the
average
noise
level
occurring
throughout
the
entire
day.
The
Hourly
Noise
Level
represents
noise
levels
measured
during
one
particular
hour.
In
some
cases,
the
hour
measured
may
have
been
affected
by
an
unusually
loud
event
(heavy
trucks
passing
by)
or
temporarily
noisy
condition
(rush
hour).
Where
this
occurs,
the
Hourly
Noise
Level
can
exceed
the
Daily
Noise
Level.
Table
IV-‐2
below,
illustrates
the
existing
noise
levels
monitored
for
10
minutes
at
each
location.
The
table
shows
that
the
noisiest
locations
are
on
major
roadways
in
the
City.
Table
IV-‐2
Existing
Short-‐Term
Noise
Levels
Receptor
Location
Description
Time
Of
Measure
-‐ment
Primary
Noise
Source
Noise
Levels
(Leq
dBA)
Noise
Levels
(dBA
CNEL)
S1
Located
100
feet
from
the
Washington
Street
centerline
north
of
the
Fred
Waring
Drive
intersection.
3:00
p.m.
Traffic
on
Washington
Street
66.1
68.4
S2
Located
near
the
Jefferson
Street
and
Fred
Waring
Drive
intersection
at
an
existing
Walgreens.
3:17
p.m.
Traffic
on
Jefferson
St.
and
Fred
Waring
Dr.
69.3
72.9
S3
Located
near
the
Eisenhower
Health
center
east
of
the
Washington
Street
centerline.
3:43
p.m.
Traffic
on
Washington
Street
69.3
71.6
S4
Located
near
the
La
Quinta
Unified
School
District
Offices
at
the
intersection
of
48th
Avenue
and
Dune
Palms
Road.
4:11
p.m.
Traffic
on
Avenue
48
66.5
67.1
S5
Located
approximately
100
feet
east
of
the
Jefferson
Street
centerline
north
of
the
50th
Avenue
intersection
at
the
existing
commercial
center.
10:27
a.m.
Traffic
on
Jefferson
St.
64.3
68.0
S6
Located
50
feet
east
of
the
centerline
in
the
front
yard
of
51915
Avenue
Bermudas
across
from
the
community
park
south
of
the
52nd
Avenue
intersection.
11:12
a.m.
Traffic
on
Avenue
Bermudas
66.2
71.3
NOISE
IV-‐7
Table
IV-‐2
(cont’d)
Existing
Short-‐Term
Noise
Levels
Receptor
Location
Description
Time
Of
Measure
-‐ment
Primary
Noise
Source
Noise
Levels
(Leq
dBA)
Noise
Levels
(dBA
CNEL)
S7
Located
south
of
52nd
Avenue
at
the
Cahuilla
Desert
Academy
School.
11:55
a.m.
Traffic
on
52nd
Avenue
62.0
66.6
S8
Located
adjacent
to
the
single-‐family
homes
near
the
intersection
of
Avenue
Bermudas
and
Calle
Arroba.
11:29
a.m.
Traffic
on
Avenue
Bermudas
59.2
64.3
S9
Located
east
of
Madison
Street
at
the
Troon
Way
intersection
near
the
existing
single-‐family
homes.
1:10
p.m.
Traffic
on
Madison
Street
64.4
67.5
S10
Located
100
feet
west
of
the
Harrison
Street
centerline
south
of
the
Airport
Blvd.
intersection.
12:16
p.m.
Traffic
on
Harrison
Street
62.1
65.7
S11
Located
north
of
50th
Avenue
centerline
at
the
existing
Boy
and
Girls
Club.
10:46
a.m.
Traffic
on
50th
Avenue
57.7
61.5
S12
Located
50
feet
east
of
the
Monroe
Street
centerline
south
of
the
60th
Avenue
intersection
and
the
existing
residential
uses.
12:40
p.m.
Traffic
on
Monroe
Street
60.4
64.0
S13
Located
100
feet
west
of
the
Jefferson
Street
centerline
between
52nd
and
54th
Avenue
at
the
proposed
residential
uses.
1:30
p.m.
Traffic
on
Jefferson
Street
66.7
71.0
NOISE
IV-‐8
Table
IV-‐3
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
D
Residential
–
Multiple
Family
A
B
C
D
Transient
Lodging:
Hotels
and
Motels
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.
B
Conditionally
Acceptable:
New
construction
or
development
should
be
undertaken
only
after
a
detailed
analysis
of
the
noise
reduction
requirement
is
made
and
needed
noise
insulation
features
included
in
the
design
C
Normally
Unacceptable:
New
construction
is
discouraged.
If
new
construction
does
proceed,
a
detailed
analysis
of
the
noise
reduction
requirements
must
be
made
and
needed
noise
insulation
features
included
in
the
design.
D
Clearly
Unacceptable:
New
construction
or
development
should
generally
not
be
undertaken.
NOISE
IV-‐9
La
Quinta
Municipal
Code
Section
9.100.210
of
the
City’s
Municipal
Code
governs
noise
control
in
the
City.
The
current
noise
standards
allow
noise
levels
of
60
dBA
from
7
AM
to
10
PM,
and
50
dBA
from
10
PM
to
7
AM
for
noise
sensitive
uses;
and
75
dBA
from
7
AM
to
10
PM,
and
65
dBA
from
10
PM
to
7
AM
for
nonresidential
land
uses.
This
standard
is
more
stringent
than
the
CNEL
standard
and
can
be
modified
by
City
Council.
The
Ordinance
also
addresses
short-‐term
noise
levels
and
places
restrictions
on
the
length
of
time
unacceptable
noise
levels
can
be
maintained.
It
also
addresses
temporary
noise
levels,
such
as
construction
noise,
and
restricts
the
hours
when
such
noise
can
occur
to
the
less
sensitive
daytime
hours.
Anticipated
Future
Noise
Levels
The
Noise
Impact
Analysis
predicts
noise
levels
throughout
the
City
and
the
Sphere
of
Influence
at
build
out
of
the
General
Plan.
These
are
shown
in
Table
IV-‐4,
below,
and
addressed
in
greater
detail
in
the
General
Plan
EIR.
Table
IV-‐4
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.
n/o
Fred
Waring
Dr.
72.7
152
327
705
1,519
Washington
St.
btwn
Fred
Waring
&
Miles
73.3
165
356
766
1,650
Washington
St.
btwn
Miles
&
Hwy
111
72.5
148
318
685
1,476
Washington
St.
btwn
Hwy
111
&
Avenue
48
73.0
158
341
736
1,585
Washington
St.
btwn
Avenue
48
&
Eisenhower
Dr
72.3
142
306
658
1,418
Washington
St.
btwn
Eisenhower
Dr
&
Avenue
50
71.7
129
278
599
1,290
Washington
St.
btwn
Avenue
50
&
Calle
Tampico
70.9
115
248
534
1,150
Eisenhower
Dr.
btwn
Washington
St
&
Avenue
50
68.1
74
160
346
745
Eisenhower
Dr.
btwn
Avenue
50
&
Calle
Tampico
66.6
59
128
275
593
Avenida
Bermudas
btwn
Calle
Tampico
&
Avenue
52
59.1
RW
RW
87
188
Avenida
Bermudas
btwn
Avenue
52
&
Calle
Durango
63.6
RW
80
173
372
Adams
St.
btwn
Westward
Ho
Dr
&
Hwy
111
66.6
60
129
277
597
NOISE
IV-‐10
Table
IV-‐4
(cont’d)
Build
Out
Noise
Levels
Distance
to
Contour
(Feet)
Road
Segment
CNEL
at
100
Feet
(dBA
70
dBA
CNEL
65
dBA
CNEL
60
dBA
CNEL
55
dBA
CNEL
Adams
St.
btwn
Hwy
111
&
Avenue
48
66.8
61
132
284
613
Dune
Palms
Rd.
btwn
Westward
Ho
Dr
&
Hwy
111
65.5
50
108
232
500
Dune
Palms
Rd.
btwn
Hwy
111
&
Avenue
48
66.7
60
129
278
598
Jefferson
St.
n/o
Fred
Waring
70.4
107
230
496
1,068
Jefferson
St.
btwn
Fred
Waring
&
Miles
71.8
132
284
613
1,320
Jefferson
St.
btwn
Miles
&
Westward
Ho
Dr
72.2
141
304
654
1,409
Jefferson
St.
btwn
Westward
Ho
Dr
&
Hwy
111
72.2
140
302
651
1,402
Jefferson
St.
btwn
Hwy
111
&
Avenue
48
72.1
139
299
645
1,389
Jefferson
St.
btwn
Avenue
48
&
Avenue
50
72.7
151
326
702
1,513
Jefferson
St.
btwn
Avenue
50
&
Avenue
52
71.1
119
256
551
1,186
Jefferson
St.
btwn
Avenue
52
&
Avenue
54
70.7
111
239
516
1,112
Madison
St.
btwn
Avenue
50
&
Avenue
52
70.4
107
231
497
1,071
Madison
St.
btwn
Avenue
54
&
Airport
Blvd
72.0
136
292
629
1,355
Madison
St.
btwn
Airport
Blvd
&
Avenue
58
70.8
113
244
527
1,134
Madison
St.
btwn
Avenue
58
&
Avenue
60
68.2
76
164
354
762
Monroe
St.
btwn
Avenue
52
&
Avenue
54
70.4
106
228
492
1,060
Monroe
St.
btwn
Avenue
54
&
Airport
Blvd
70.6
110
237
510
1,099
Jackson
St.
btwn
Avenue
54
&
Airport
Blvd
70.0
101
217
467
1,006
Jackson
St.
btwn
Airport
Blvd
&
Avenue
58
70.2
103
221
476
1,026
Jackson
St.
btwn
Avenue
58
&
Avenue
60
69.5
93
199
429
925
Jackson
St.
btwn
Avenue
60
&
Avenue
62
68.3
77
166
358
770
Van
Buren
St.
btwn
Avenue
52
&
Avenue
54
70.0
101
217
467
1,006
Van
Buren
St.
btwn
Avenue
54
&
Airport
Blvd
69.0
86
185
399
859
Van
Buren
St.
btwn
Airport
Blvd
&
Avenue
58
69.3
90
195
419
904
Van
Buren
St.
btwn
Avenue
58
&
Avenue
60
69.4
91
196
422
908
Van
Buren
St.
btwn
Avenue
60
&
Avenue
62
65.8
52
113
243
523
Harrison
St.
btwn
Airport
Blvd
&
Avenue
58
73.7
176
378
815
1,756
Avenue
44
e/o
Washington
St
72.0
136
292
629
1,356
Miles
Ave.
e/o
Washington
St
66.6
59
127
274
590
Hwy
111
e/o
Washington
St
75.4
230
496
1,068
2,301
Hwy
111
e/o
Adams
St
74.2
191
411
885
1,906
NOISE
IV-‐11
Table
IV-‐4
(cont’d)
Build
Out
Noise
Levels
Distance
to
Contour
(Feet)
Road
Segment
CNEL
at
100
Feet
(dBA
70
dBA
CNEL
65
dBA
CNEL
60
dBA
CNEL
55
dBA
CNEL
Hwy
111
e/o
Dune
Palms
75.2
223
481
1,036
2,233
Avenue
48
e/o
Washington
St
67.0
64
137
295
635
Avenue
48
w/o
Jefferson
St
70.0
100
215
464
999
Avenue
50
e/o
Washington
St
64.4
RW
91
197
424
Avenue
50
w/o
Jefferson
St
67.0
63
136
294
634
Avenue
50
e/o
Jefferson
St
69.7
96
207
447
962
Calle
Tampico
btwn
Eisenhower
Dr
&
Avenida
Bermudas
61.9
RW
62
134
289
Calle
Tampico
btwn
Avenida
Bermudas
&
Washington
St
64.7
RW
95
204
440
Avenue
52
w/o
Washington
St
66.7
60
130
280
603
Avenue
52
w/o
Jefferson
St
70.1
102
220
475
1,023
Avenue
52
e/o
Jefferson
St
69.7
95
206
443
955
Avenue
52
e/o
Madison
St
69.2
88
190
410
883
Avenue
54
e/o
Jefferson
St
69.9
98
212
457
984
Avenue
54
w/o
Madison
St
62.4
RW
67
145
312
Airport
Blvd.
e/o
Madison
St
67.3
66
141
304
656
Avenue
58
w/o
Monroe
St
63.8
RW
83
179
386
Avenue
58
e/o
Monroe
St
66.0
54
117
252
542
Avenue
60
e/o
Madison
St
64.9
46
99
213
460
Avenue
60
e/o
Monroe
St
65.3
RW
105
226
488
Avenue
62
btwn
Madison
St
&
Monroe
St
64.3
42
90
195
419
Avenue
62
e/o
Monroe
St
67.5
68
146
314
677
Avenue
62
e/o
Jackson
St
63.7
RW
82
178
383
Avenue
62
e/o
Van
Buren
St
60.1
RW
47
102
220
Most
new
residential
development
on
General
Plan
roads
will
be
located
between
35
and
65
feet
from
the
center
line
of
the
street
(depending
on
the
type
of
road
on
which
the
project
is
located).
Based
on
Table
IV-‐4,
in
order
to
achieve
a
noise
level
of
65
dBA
CNEL
or
less,
noise
analysis
will
be
required
at
most
locations
to
assure
that
a
project’s
design
includes
noise
protection.
NOISE
IV-‐12
Managing
Noise
Levels
Site
planning
and
design
standards,
including
the
use
of
buffer
zones,
building
orientation,
walls,
and
landscaping
between
sensitive
land
uses
and
roadways
are
the
most
common
and
easiest
ways
to
lessen
noise
levels.
As
new
noise-‐sensitive
projects
are
developed
next
to
noisy
roads
throughout
the
City,
noise
impact
analyses
should
be
part
of
the
approval
process
to
assure
that
the
noise
environment
within
the
projects
is
acceptable.
These
analyses
will
be
individually
tailored
to
address
each
site
and
will
provide
noise
attenuation
best
suited
to
the
particular
situation
faced
by
each
project.
Such
analysis
is
critical
to
assuring
good
quality
of
life
for
City
residents.
The
most
effective
way
to
reduce
noise
is
by
installing
a
solid
barrier;
however,
noise
barriers
can
have
limitations.
To
reduce
noise
levels
by
5
dBA,
a
vegetative
barrier
must
be
at
least
15
feet
high,
100
feet
wide,
and
dense
enough
to
completely
obstruct
the
line-‐of-‐sight
between
the
noise
source
and
receiver.
For
a
block
wall
to
effectively
decrease
traffic
noise
levels
by
5
dB,
it
must
be
high
and
long
enough
to
block
the
view
of
the
road.
Construction
Noise
Most
construction
projects
require
the
use
of
heavy
equipment.
Heavy
equipment
can
generate
noise
ranging
from
68
dBA
to
over
100
dBA
at
a
distance
of
50
feet.
For
every
doubling
of
distance,
the
noise
level
is
reduced
by
about
6
dBA.
Heavy
equipment
operating
close
to
existing
sensitive
receptors,
however,
can
create
unacceptable
noise
levels
for
short
periods
of
time.
The
City
has
adopted
a
noise
ordinance
which
limits
construction
activities
in
order
to
reduce
the
potential
for
intrusive
noise
during
evenings,
weekends
and
holidays.
Future
development
proposals
should
be
required
to
analyze
construction
noise
if
the
project
is
proposed
next
to
existing
sensitive
receptors.
Airport
Noise
The
Jacqueline
Cochran
Regional
Airport
is
located
immediately
east
of
the
Sphere
of
Influence
and
accommodates
business
and
private
air
traffic.
In
the
future,
it
is
likely
that
activity
at
the
airport
will
increase.
One
of
the
airport’s
runways
is
constructed
on
a
north-‐south
axis,
which
results
in
the
bulk
of
the
noise
occurring
north
and
south
of
the
runway,
as
shown
in
Exhibit
IV-‐1.
The
other
runway
lies
on
a
northwest-‐
southeast
axis,
and
noise
contours
along
this
runway
are
limited
to
the
immediate
vicinity
of
the
runway.
The
airport’s
noise
levels
are,
therefore,
not
expected
to
impact
areas
west
of
Harrison
Street,
which
defines
the
eastern
edge
of
the
City’s
Sphere
of
Influence.
NOISE
IV-‐14
Bus
Stops
and
Bus
Routes
SunLine
Transit
Agency
operates
bus
routes
in
the
City.
The
current
routes
are
focused
on
Highway
111
and
Washington
Street,
and
they
connect
to
other
routes
which
provide
for
regional
travel
throughout
the
Valley.
As
the
City
and
the
region
grow,
demand
for
transit
service
will
increase,
and
SunLine
is
likely
to
expand
its
services
in
the
City.
Transit
buses
can
have
a
negative
noise
impact
–
their
brakes
and
engines
can
be
louder
than
typical
car
noise,
and
their
acceleration
from
bus
stops
can
be
noisy
if
the
stop
is
located
next
to
residential
development.
As
additional
bus
routes
are
developed,
and
sensitive
uses
are
proposed
next
to
bus
routes,
noise
analysis
will
be
needed
to
assure
that
transit
activities
do
no
raise
noise
levels
beyond
the
City’s
standards.
Truck
Routes
The
City
limits
truck
routes
by
maintaining
an
official
truck
route
map.
Although
the
map
is
updated
periodically,
it
generally
limits
truck
routes
to
major
roadways.
Although
heavy
trucks
occasionally
use
local
streets
to
access
delivery
addresses,
their
presence
on
major
roadways
does
not
significantly
change
the
existing
or
future
noise
environment.
As
with
bus
routes,
the
City
will
need
to
monitor
future
development
of
sensitive
receptors
on
major
roadways
to
assure
that
truck
noise
does
not
raise
noise
levels
beyond
the
City’s
standards.
Groundborne
Vibration
Groundborne
vibration
most
commonly
results
from
construction
equipment,
train
trips
and
heavy
truck
traffic.
Unlike
noise,
there
is
no
established
standard
to
measure
vibration.
Most
groundborne
vibration
in
La
Quinta
is
from
construction
activity
and
heavy
trucks,
since
there
are
no
train
tracks
in
the
City
or
its
Sphere
of
Influence.
In
the
long
term,
it
is
not
expected
that
additional
sources
of
vibration
will
develop
in
the
City.
Construction
equipment
and
heavy
trucks
can
cause
limited
and
short-‐duration
vibrations;
however,
groundborne
vibration
is
not
expected
to
affect
the
City
signifi cantly.
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
In
general,
the
City’s
current
land
use
patterns
buffer
sensitive
land
uses
from
high
noise
levels.
However,
as
the
City
and
Sphere
grow
in
the
future,
noise
impacts
will
need
to
be
carefully
considered.
This
is
particularly
true
of
any
area
where
Mixed
Use
development
is
considered
–
along
Highway
111
or
in
the
Village
–
where
there
may
be
NOISE
IV-‐15
less
room
to
buffer
residential
uses
from
commercial
activities.
Careful
consideration
of
each
future
project
will
be
required
to
assure
that
compatibility
is
maintained.
The
City’s
ongoing
efforts
to
preserve
the
quality
of
life
for
all
its
residents,
present
and
future,
must
include
the
protection
of
a
quiet
noise
environment.
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
N-‐1
A
healthful
noise
environment
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
described
in
this
Element.
Program
N-‐1.1.a:
Propose
to
City
Council
an
amendment
to
the
Municipal
Code
(Section
9.100.210)
to
allow
65
dBA
CNEL
for
sensitive
land
uses.
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
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
Department
application,
which
demonstrates
compliance
with
the
City’s
noise
standards.
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
Department
application,
which
demonstrates
that
it
will
not
significantly
impact
the
adjacent
residential
development
or
residential
land.
NOISE
IV-‐16
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
Department
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.
Program
N-‐1.6.a:
Remedial
improvements
will
be
included
in
the
Capital
Improvement
Program.
Policy
N-‐1.7
Noise
impact
analysis
shall
be
included
in
all
City
Capital
Improvement
Plan
(CIP)
and
developer-‐required
roadway
widening
projects
to
demonstrate
compliance
with
City
noise
standards.
Policy
N-‐1.8
Maintain
a
truck
route
plan
restricting
truck
travel
to
arterial
roadways.
RELATED
GOALS
As
described
above,
this
Element
relates
to
others
in
this
General
Plan.
The
following
Goals
and
their
associated
policies
and
programs
are
closely
related
to
those
of
this
Element.
GOAL
LU-‐1:
Land
use
compatibility
throughout
the
City.
GOAL
LU-‐3:
Safe
and
identifiable
neighborhoods
that
provide
a
sense
of
place.
GOAL
OS-‐2:
Good
stewardship
of
natural
open
space
and
preservation
of
open
space
areas.
NOISE
IV-‐17
THIS
PAGE
INTENTIONALLY
LEFT
BLANK
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐19
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
PURPOSE
The
Soils
and
Geology
Element
assesses
the
physical
characteristics
of
the
planning
area
and
the
community’s
overall
safety.
This
element
relates
to
a
variety
of
other
General
Plan
elements,
including
Land
Use,
Circulation,
Housing,
Economic
Development,
Public
Facilities,
Emergency
Services,
and
Water,
Sewer
and
Other
Public
Utilities.
Many
of
the
issues
addressed
in
this
element
also
directly
relate
to
those
considered
in
the
Flooding
and
Hydrology
Element.
California
Government
Code
and
Public
Resources
Code
require
the
inclusion
of
a
General
Plan
element
addressing
seismic
safety
issues.
As
set
forth
in
Government
Code
Section
65302(g),
the
General
Plan
is
required
to
consider
the
need
to
protect
the
community
from
unreasonable
risks
from
seismically
induced
hazards,
including
surface
rupture,
groundshaking,
ground
failure,
seiching,
dam
failure,
subsidence,
and
other
geologic
risks.
The
City
lies
within
the
most
severe
seismic
shaking
zone,
Zone
4,
as
defined
in
Chapter
2-‐23,
Part
2,
Title
24
of
the
Administrative
Code.
Jurisdictions
in
Zone
4
must
identify
all
potentially
hazardous
or
substandard
buildings,
and
programmatically
mitigate
potential
hazards
associated
with
such
structures.
BACKGROUND
Geologically,
the
planning
area
is
diverse
and
relatively
young.
It
is
subject
to
a
variety
of
complex,
on-‐going
geologic
and
seismic
processes
and
hazards,
including
continuing
uplift
of
the
San
Jacinto
and
Santa
Rosa
Mountains
to
the
west,
and
seismic-‐related
subsidence
(gradual
settling)
of
the
Coachella
Valley.
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐20
The
following
discussions
summarize
the
soil
types
and
conditions,
and
associated
geotechnical
and
seismic
hazards
that
should
be
considered
in
future
planning
for
La
Quinta.
This
discussion
is
intended
to
provide
an
overview;
additional
technical
information
and
specific
mitigation
measures
are
provided
in
the
Environmental
Impact
Report
for
this
General
Plan.
Seismic
Hazards
Most
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.
The
boundary
between
these
two
plates
is
marked
by
the
San
Andreas
Fault,
which
occurs
approximately
4
miles
north
of
the
City.
Approximately
60
to
70
percent
of
the
plate
movement
occurs
along
the
San
Andreas
Fault.
The
remainder
is
distributed
among
other
faults
within
the
San
Andreas
system
and
those
associated
with
the
Eastern
California
Shear
Zone.
The
southern
California
region
and
the
planning
area
are,
therefore,
in
an
area
susceptible
to
strong
seismic
activity.
Measuring
Seismic
Events
The
seismic
energy
released
when
an
earthquake
occurs
is
measured
in
terms
of
intensity
and
magnitude.
The
intensity
of
ground
shaking
is
determined
by
several
factors,
including
the
earthquake’s
magnitude,
distance
from
the
epicenter,
and
soil
and
rock
composition.
Seismologists
have
used
a
variety
of
scales
to
measure
earthquakes.
Modern
Mercalli
Intensity
(MMI)
scale
is
the
most
common
measure
of
seismic
intensity.
It
defines
earthquakes
in
terms
of
damage
along
a
continuum
of
12
levels,
based
on
observable
damage
to
structures
and
human
responses
to
earthquakes.
Seismic
Moment
(Mw)
Measure
is
currently
favored
by
seismologists,
and
correlates
earthquake
size
to
the
amount
of
energy
released
when
a
fault
ruptures.
A
one-‐point
increase
in
magnitude
represents
a
32-‐fold
increase
in
energy.
Maximum
Probable
Earthquake
(MPE)
is
the
largest
earthquake
likely
to
occur
on
a
fault
or
fault
segment
within
a
specified
time
period.
MPE
is
used
to
prepare
engineering
or
emergency
plans,
to
develop
design
parameters
and
safe
construction
practices,
and
to
prepare
policies
and
programs
regarding
potential
earthquake
hazards
and
impacts.
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐21
Maximum
Magnitude
Earthquake
(Mmax)
is
a
value
assigned
by
the
California
Geological
Survey
which
represents
the
highest
magnitude
earthquake
a
fault
is
capable
of
producing
based
on
physical
limitations,
such
as
the
length
of
the
fault
or
segment.
Major
Faults
Affecting
the
Planning
Area
Potential
hazards
associated
with
earthquakes
can
range
from
significant
property
damage,
to
the
loss
of
public
services
and
facilities,
to
the
loss
of
life.
Strong
ground
shaking
has
the
greatest
potential
to
result
in
severe
impacts
in
La
Quinta.
Ground
shaking
may
cause
other
hazards
such
as
landslides,
structural
damage
or
destruction,
liquefaction,
and
settlement.
Such
events
can
also
result
in
fires,
hazardous
materials
releases,
and
disruption
of
essential
facilities
and
services
such
as
water,
sewer,
gas,
electric,
drainage,
and
transportation.
Flooding
can
result
from
dam
or
water
tank
failure.
The
most
significant
faults
with
the
potential
to
affect
the
General
Plan
area
are
described
below
and
illustrated
in
Exhibit
IV-‐2.
San
Andreas
Fault
Zone:
considered
the
“Master
Fault”
in
Southern
California
based
on
frequency
and
magnitude
of
earthquakes
and
influence
over
seismic
hazards
in
the
area.
Passes
approximately
4
miles
northwest
of
the
General
Plan
area.
Extends
approximately
690
miles,
from
the
Salton
Sea
to
Cape
Mendocino
in
northern
California.
Last
major
earthquake
on
the
southern
portion:
Fort
Tejon
(1857),
magnitude
8.0;
the
largest
earthquake
reported
in
California.
Southern
San
Andreas
fault
estimated
to
have
a
59%
probability
of
causing
an
earthquake
of
at
least
magnitude
6.7
in
the
next
30
years.
Maximum
Magnitude
Earthquake
(Mmax)
potential
in
La
Quinta:
7.7
to
8.0
earthquake.
Shaking
intensity
could
range
from
moderate
to
strong
and
would
be
expected
to
result
in
moderate
to
heavy
damage,
especially
to
buildings
that
are
older
or
poorly
constructed.
San
Jacinto
Fault
Zone:
historically,
the
San
Jacinto
fault
has
produced
more
large
earthquakes
than
any
other
fault
in
southern
California.
None
have
been
as
large
as
the
1857
and
1906
earthquakes
on
the
San
Andreas
fault.
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐22
Located
south
of
the
planning
area.
Comprises
the
western
margin
of
the
San
Jacinto
Mountains
via
a
series
of
closely
spaced
faults.
Extends
approximately
175
miles,
intersecting
with
the
San
Andreas
fault
in
San
Bernardino;
continues
south
of
the
U.S./Mexico
border
as
the
Imperial
fault.
Most
recent
surface-‐rupturing
earthquakes
occurred
in
1968
along
the
Coyote
Creek
segment
and
in
1987
along
the
Superstition
Hills
segment.
All
segments
of
the
San
Jacinto
fault
have
an
average
of
31%
probability
of
rupturing
between
1994
and
2024.
Burnt
Mountain
Fault:
one
of
several
of
the
other
Eastern
Mojave
Shear
Zone
faults.
Unknown
until
1992,
when
a
ground-‐surface
rupture
occurred
along
a
3.1-‐mile-‐length
of
this
fault
(most
likely
during
a
large
aftershock
of
the
Landers
earthquake).
Extends
approximately
13
miles.
Approximately
15
miles
north
of
La
Quinta
at
nearest
point.
Considered
capable
of
producing
a
magnitude
6.0
to
6.5
earthquake.
Elsinore
Fault
Zone:
major
right-‐lateral
strike-‐slip
fault
of
the
San
Andreas
fault
system
in
southern
California.
Extends
approximately
190
miles,
from
northern
Baja
California
to
the
Los
Angeles
Basin.
Divided,
from
south
to
north
into
seven
segments.
Closest
Elsinore
segment
to
La
Quinta,
approximately
39
miles
west
of
La
Quinta.
Probability
of
rupturing
in
a
magnitude
6.7
earthquake
in
the
next
30
years
approximately
11%.
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐25
Seismically
Induced
Geotechnical
Hazards
Seismically
Induced
Ground
Shaking
Seismically
induced
ground
shaking
is
the
most
potentially
significant
geotechnical
hazard
to
the
La
Quinta
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
planning
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.
Local
agencies
use
a
variety
of
tools
to
assure
seismic
safety
in
structures,
including
the
California
Building
Code
and
Unreinforced
Masonry
Law.
These
are
further
discussed
under
Mitigation
of
Earthquake
Hazards,
below.
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.
Liquefaction
can
result
in
ground
settlement,
ground
undulation,
lateral
spreading
or
displacement,
and
flow
failures.
Structures
may
sink
or
tilt
as
bearing
capacity
decreases,
causing
substantial
damage.
Areas
where
both
shallow
groundwater
and
soils
that
are
susceptible
to
liquefaction
occur
include
the
southeastern
part
of
the
city
and
the
entire
eastern
Sphere
of
Influence
area.
Liquefaction
potential
in
this
area
ranges
from
moderate,
where
groundwater
is
30
to
50
feet
below
the
surface,
to
high,
where
groundwater
is
found
30
feet
or
less
below
the
surface.
Exhibit
IV-‐3,
Seismic
Hazards,
shows
areas
of
liquefaction
susceptibility
in
the
planning
area.
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐26
Landslides
and
Rockfall
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.
This
includes
much
of
the
Cove
and
the
southwestern
edge
of
the
City,
which
is
surrounded
by
mountains
comprised
of
granitic
rock.
Exhibit
IV-‐3,
Seismic
Hazards,
illustrates
where
the
highest
potential
exists
for
slope
instability.
Seismically
Induced
Settlement
Seismically
induced
settlement
can
occur
when
strong
ground
shaking
causes
soils
to
become
more
tightly
packed,
collapsing
pore
spaces,
and
reducing
the
soil
column
thickness.
Soils
that
are
loose
and
unconsolidated,
as
is
typical
of
young
alluvial
and
wind-‐deposited
soils,
are
especially
subject
to
this
risk.
Fill
may
also
be
susceptible
if
not
properly
compacted
during
construction.
Areas
where
these
soils
(mapping
units
Qa,
Qa/Ql
and
Qs)
predominate
are
shown
on
Exhibit
IV-‐4,
Geologic
Map,
and
include
much
of
the
valley
floor
throughout
the
northern
Sphere
of
Influence,
the
urban
core
of
the
City,
and
the
eastern
corporate
limits
and
Sphere-‐of-‐
Influence.
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐29
Seiche
Seiches
are
standing
wave
oscillations
(sloshing)
that
occur
in
enclosed
or
partially
enclosed
water
bodies
of
shallow
to
moderately
shallow
depth.
Seiches
may
occur
in
reservoirs,
lakes,
ponds,
and
swimming
pools.
Seiche
waves
typically
associated
with
seismic-‐induced
ground
shaking
are
less
than
2
feet
high,
although
seiches
over
6.5
feet
have
been
reported.
In
the
planning
area,
there
are
numerous
lakes,
ponds,
and
reservoirs
that
may
be
subject
to
seiches
as
a
result
of
ground
shaking.
These
include
Lake
Cahuilla,
recharge
basins
in
the
southeastern
portion
of
La
Quinta,
and
smaller
golf
course
lakes
and
detention
basins.
Potential
damage
may
also
occur
from
seiches
in
water
storage
reservoirs.
Regulatory
Mitigation
of
Earthquake
Hazards
The
State
of
California
enacted
the
Alquist-‐Priolo
Earthquake
Fault
Zoning
Act
in
1972
to
mitigate
the
hazard
of
fault
rupture
by
prohibiting
structures
intended
for
human
occupancy
from
being
located
across
the
trace
of
an
active
fault.
It
requires
the
State
Geologist
to
define
"Earthquake
Fault
Zones"
along
faults
that
show
evidence
of
active
surface
displacement.
The
Act
prohibits
local
jurisdictions
from
granting
development
permits
for
certain
types
of
development
on
sites
within
an
Earthquake
Fault
Zone
until
a
geologic
investigation
demonstrates
they
are
safe
from
surface
displacements
from
future
faulting.
There
are
no
Alquist-‐Priolo
zoned
faults
in
the
City
of
La
Quinta
or
its
Sphere
of
Influence.
The
closest
zoned
fault
is
the
San
Andreas
fault
to
the
north
of
the
city
(also
please
see
Exhibit
IV-‐2,
Faults
and
Historical
Seismicity
Map).
The
State
enacted
the
Seismic
Hazards
Mapping
Act
(SHMA)
in
1990.
It
addresses
non-‐surface
earthquake
hazards
such
as
strong
ground
shaking,
liquefaction
and
seismically
induced
landslides.
It
is
intended
to
minimize
loss
of
life
and
property
by
identifying
and
mitigating
seismic
hazards.
The
California
Geological
Survey
(CGS)
is
primarily
responsible
for
its
implementation.
CGS
is
required
to
provide
local
governments
with
seismic
hazard
zone
maps
that
identify
areas
subject
to
liquefaction,
earthquake-‐induced
landslides
and
other
ground
failures,
also
known
as
“zones
of
required
investigation.”
When
construction
projects
fall
within
these
areas,
site-‐specific
geological
hazard
investigations
are
required
by
the
SHMA.
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐30
There
are
currently
no
State-‐issued,
official
seismic
hazard
zone
maps
for
La
Quinta
or
its
Sphere.
The
Seismic
Retrofitting
and
Unreinforced
Masonry
Law
was
enacted
by
the
State
in
1986,
and
requires
all
cities
and
counties
in
zones
designated
as
Seismic
Zone
4
to
identify
potentially
hazardous
unreinforced
masonry
(URM)
buildings
in
their
jurisdictions.
In
2006,
the
City
inventoried
URMs
and
reported
there
were
seven
historic
URMs
in
the
City.
Of
these,
five
have
been
retrofitted
in
compliance
with
the
City’s
mandatory
mitigation
program.
One
was
to
be
demolished,
and
one
had
neither
been
mitigated
nor
showed
progress
towards
mitigation.
Both
are
adobe
structures
located
on
the
grounds
of
the
La
Quinta
Resort.
The
City
Building
Department
has
reported
that
the
unmitigated
URMs
are
vacant
and
are
not
being
used.
Soils
There
are
seven
types
of
soil
units
that
have
been
mapped
in
the
planning
area:
1. Alluvial
sand
and
gravel
of
the
Whitewater
River
(Qg)
2. Windblown
sand
(wind-‐lain
dune
sand)
(Qs)
3. Interbedded
lacustrine
(clay
of
valley
areas)
(Ql)
4. Alluvial
deposits
(sand
of
valley
areas)
(Qa)
5. Alluvial
fan
sand
and
gravel
deposits
(Qf)
6. Landslide
deposits
(Qls)
7. Quartz
diorite
(hard
crystalline
rock)
(Qd)
The
locations
of
these
soils
in
the
planning
area
are
shown
on
Exhibit
IV-‐4,
Geologic
Map
of
the
Study
Area.
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐33
Hazards
Associated
with
Soils
Landslides
and
Slope
Instability
Slope
failure
can
occur
on
steep
slopes,
and
development
at
their
base
is
at
risk
of
landslides,
surficial
failures,
soil
slip,
debris
flow,
and/or
rockfall.
The
planning
area
includes
significant
areas
of
hillside
terrain,
such
as
those
associated
with
the
Santa
Rosa
National
Monument.
Areas
subject
to
these
hazards
include
many
of
the
more
developed
areas
in
the
City,
which
are
surrounded
on
three
sides
by
mountains
that
pose
rockfall
hazard.
Earthquakes,
periods
of
intense
rainfall,
or
human
activities
associated
with
construction,
such
as
grading
and
blasting,
can
increase
these
hazards.
Compressible
Soils
Compressible
soils
are
geologically
young,
unconsolidated
soils
of
low
density
that
tend
to
compress
under
the
weight
of
proposed
fill
embankments
and
structures.
In
the
General
Plan
area,
areas
most
likely
to
contain
compressible
soils
include:
Valley
areas,
which
include
young
soil
deposits
associated
with
modern
and
pre-‐historic
floodplains,
including
the
Whitewater
River,
which
are
overlain
with
wind-‐blown
deposits
and
alluvium;
Hillside
areas,
especially
at
the
base
of
natural
slopes,
and
within
canyon
bottoms
and
swales;
Deep
fill
embankments,
normally
those
more
than
about
60
feet
deep,
which
may
compress
under
their
own
weight.
Collapsible
Soils
Collapsible
soils
are
associated
with
sediments
that
have
recently
accumulated
in
arid
or
semi-‐arid
environments,
including
soils
commonly
associated
with
alluvial
fan
and
debris
flow
sediments
deposited
during
flash
floods,
which
are
typically
dry
and
contain
tiny
voids.
Under
some
conditions,
significant
settlement
can
occur
rapidly,
even
under
relatively
light
loads.
Irrigation,
especially
near
building
foundations,
or
a
rise
in
the
groundwater
table
can
lead
to
differential
settlement
of
buildings
or
structures,
causing
walls
and
foundations
to
crack.
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐34
In
the
General
Plan
area,
this
hazard
may
pose
a
localized
risk
where
young
alluvial
and
wind-‐deposited
sediments
occur.
The
La
Quinta
Engineering
Department
has
prepared
a
bulletin
(available
on
the
City’s
website)
that
identifies
portions
of
the
General
Plan
area
that
are
susceptible
to
collapsible
soils.
The
bulletin
establishes
supplemental
guidance
for
preparing
site-‐specific
geotechnical
reports
as
they
pertain
to
collapsible
soils.
Expansive
Soils
Expansive
soils
are
soils
containing
fine-‐grained
materials
such
as
silts
and
clays
in
varying
amounts.
With
changes
in
moisture
content,
clay
minerals
can
shrink
or
swell,
creating
pressure
that
may
affect
structures
or
other
surface
improvements.
In
the
General
Plan
area,
soils
on
the
valley
floor
include
alluvial
sand
and
gravel
with
fine-‐grained
lakebed
deposits
such
as
silts
and
clays.
Once
graded,
the
expansion
characteristics
of
these
soils
can
vary
widely.
Engineered
fills
that
include
expansive
soils
near
the
finished
surface
may
result
in
damage.
Corrosive
Soils
Corrosive
soils
occur
as
a
result
of
various
complex
electrochemical
and
bacteriological
processes
between
soil
and
buried
metallic
structures,
such
as
water
mains
or
elements
within
building
foundations.
Reactions
depend
on
a
variety
of
factors,
including
structure
type
and
soil
characteristics.
Valley
areas
may
contain
sediments
that
are
corrosive
to
metallic
objects,
such
as
reinforcing
steel
and
pipelines.
Ground
Subsidence
Subsidence
is
generally
caused
by
human
activity,
such
as
the
extraction
of
groundwater,
oil
or
gas
in
sediment-‐filled
valleys
and
floodplains.
Natural
forces,
such
as
earthquake
movements,
can
also
result
in
subsidence.
Regional
subsidence
can
result
in
earth
fissures,
sinkholes
or
depressions,
and
surface
drainage
disruption.
It
can
cause
damage
to
pipelines,
canals,
levees,
wells,
buildings,
roadways
and
railroads
and
other
improvements.
In
the
presence
of
clay
and
silt,
removal
of
groundwater
can
cause
irreversible
subsidence
and
surface
fissures
and
cracks.
The
only
recorded
fissures
in
the
Coachella
Valley
occurred
in
La
Quinta
in
1948,
near
the
base
of
the
Santa
Rosa
Mountains,
at
the
south
end
of
the
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐35
City.
Fissures
and
differential
displacement
are
more
likely
to
occur
at
the
edge
of
the
Valley
floor,
where
it
meets
the
mountains.
Monitoring
conducted
by
the
US
Geological
Survey
(USGS),
CVWD
and
others
shows
that
subsidence
rates
in
the
Coachella
Valley
have
been
increasing
rapidly
over
the
past
several
decades.
CVWD
has
implemented
a
variety
of
measures,
such
as
groundwater
recharge,
imported
water,
and
water
conservation
techniques
and
programs
to
minimize
the
extraction
of
groundwater.
Erosion
Erosion
is
influenced
by
a
variety
of
factors:
climate,
topography,
soil
and
rock
types,
and
vegetation.
During
intense
storms,
high
rates
of
erosion
can
occur
as
soil
and
rock
in
the
foothills
travel
to
the
valley
floor.
Risk
of
erosion
is
increased
by
wildfires,
which
strip
slopes
of
vegetation
and
leave
them
susceptible
to
erosion.
In
the
planning
area,
canyon
bottoms
and
areas
within
the
valley
that
contain
unconsolidated
soils
are
most
vulnerable.
Human
activities
hasten
natural
erosion,
as
they
remove
protective
vegetation,
alter
natural
drainage
patterns,
and
compact
soils.
Cut
and
fill
slopes
may
be
more
susceptible
than
naturalized
slopes.
Development
also
reduces
the
surface
area
available
for
water
to
percolate,
thereby
increasing
risk
of
flooding
and
downstream
sedimentation.
In
La
Quinta
and
Riverside
County,
development
plans
for
new
projects
must
incorporate
temporary
and
permanent
erosion
control
measures.
All
development
projects
over
one
acre
in
size
must
obtain
coverage
under
the
City’s
General
Construction
permit,
which
includes
preparation
of
a
Stormwater
Pollution
Prevention
Plan
(SWPPP)
and
Best
Management
Practices
(BMPs)
for
pre-‐,
during
and
post-‐
construction
erosion
prevention
and
control.
Wind
Erosion
Wind
transports
and
re-‐deposits
soil,
thereby
damaging
land
and
natural
vegetation.
Wind
erosion
commonly
occurs
in
areas
that
are
flat
and
bare,
dry
and
sandy,
or
in
areas
with
loose,
dry,
finely
granulated
soil.
Effects
of
wind
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐36
erosion
include
soil
loss
and
the
deterioration
of
soil
structure,
dryness,
loss
of
nutrients
and
productivity,
air
pollution,
and
sediment
transport
and
deposition.
Many
areas
in
the
Coachella
Valley
are
subject
to
varying
levels
of
hazards
associated
with
wind-‐blown
sand.
A
variety
of
conditions
that
are
conducive
to
creating
and
transporting
sand
exist
in
the
valley,
including
the
orientation
of
hill
and
mountain
masses,
nature
of
the
bedrock,
location
of
the
Whitewater
River
floodplain,
slope
and
orientation
of
the
valley
floor,
and
the
hot,
arid
climate
and
sparse
vegetation.
Wind
and
wind-‐blown
sand
can
result
in
damage
to
structures
and
cars,
poor
visibility,
road
closures,
and
general
degradation
of
air
quality.
Health
problems
associated
with
wind
and
blowing
sand
include
allergies
and
respiratory
irritation,
eye
infections,
and
skin
disorders.
The
Coachella
Valley
region
is
particularly
affected
by
particulate
matter
less
than
10
microns
in
diameter,
known
as
PM10,
that
can
directly
irritate
lung
tissues
and
result
in
serious
health
problems.
The
Coachella
Valley
State
Implementation
Plan
(adopted
2003)
has
been
effective
in
reducing
the
concentration
of
PM10
in
the
valley.
(Please
refer
to
the
Air
Quality
Element
for
more
information
on
PM10.)
Except
for
protected
areas
near
the
base
of
the
Santa
Rosa
Mountains,
most
of
the
planning
area
is
located
within
an
active
Wind
Erosion
Zone.
Sediments
subject
to
erosion
underlie
the
northern
portion
of
the
City.
Please
see
Exhibit
IV-‐5,
Wind
Erosion
Susceptibility
Map.
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐39
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
Local
seismic
and
geotechnical
conditions
will
continue
to
necessitate
careful
land
use
planning
to
protect
the
health
and
safety
of
residents
and
their
property.
The
implementation
and
enforcement
of
regulations
and
guidelines
such
as
the
Alquist-‐Priolo
Earthquake
Fault
Zoning
act,
CEQA
Statutes
and
Guidelines,
California
Building
Code,
City
zoning
ordinance,
and
other
applicable
legislation
will
help
manage
hazards
discussed
in
this
Element.
As
development
in
the
area
continues
to
occur,
it
will
be
increasingly
important
for
the
City
to
closely
coordinate
with
state,
regional
and
county
agencies
to
update
information
databases
of
geotechnical
and
seismic
conditions
in
the
region.
Through
the
development
review
process,
the
City
must
ensure
that
development
proposals
are
subject
to
comprehensive
geotechnical
and
safety
assessments
prior
to
approval,
and
that
all
necessary
mitigation
measures
are
implemented.
Public
education
will
continue
to
be
an
important
means
to
inform
residents
on
how
to
reduce
potential
losses
from
geotechnical
hazards
while
preparing
for
possible
future
disaster
scenarios.
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
GEO-‐1
Protection
of
the
residents’
health
and
safety,
and
of
their
property,
from
geologic
and
seismic
hazards.
Policy
GEO-‐1.1
The
City
shall
maintain
and
periodically
update
an
information
database
and
maps
that
identify
local
and
regional
geologic
and
seismic
conditions.
Program
GEO-‐1.1.a:
The
City
shall
periodically
confer
with
the
California
Division
of
Mines
and
Geology,
Riverside
County,
neighboring
communities,
and
other
appropriate
agencies
to
improve
and
routinely
update
the
database.
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
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐40
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.
RELATED
GOALS
As
described
above,
this
Element
relates
to
others
in
this
General
Plan.
The
following
Goals,
and
their
associated
policies
and
programs,
are
closely
related
to
those
of
this
Element.
GOAL
FH-‐1:
Protection
of
the
health,
safety
and
welfare
of
the
community
from
flooding
and
hydrological
hazards.
SOILS
AND
GEOLOGY
IV-‐41
THIS
PAGE
INTENTIONALLY
LEFT
BLANK
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
IV-‐43
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
PURPOSE
The
Flooding
and
Hydrology
Element
describes
potential
drainage
and
flooding
hazards
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence,
as
well
as
the
future
potential
for
major
flooding.
Other
General
Plan
elements
are
related
to
Flooding
and
Hydrology.
The
Soils
and
Geology
Element
is
the
most
closely
related,
as
the
City’s
flooding
patterns
are
controlled
by
its
soils
and
geology.
Other
related
elements
include
Hazardous
Materials
and
Circulation.
The
Land
Use
Element,
by
which
land
uses
such
as
open
space,
developed
areas,
and
essential
public
facilities,
are
designated
and
located
is
also
affected
by
flooding
issues.
There
are
a
number
of
State
regulations
and
policies
that
require
the
City
and
local
and
regional
agencies
(including
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
and
Riverside
County
Flood
Control
and
Water
Conservation
District)
to
analyze
and
provide
protection
from
flooding
hazards
in
the
community.
The
joint
planning
of
area-‐wide
drainage
plans
affecting
local
jurisdictions
is
required
by
Chapter
73
of
the
Statutes
of
California
(1939).
Government
Code
Section
8401(c),
also
known
as
the
Cobey-‐Alquist
Flood
Plain
Management
Act,
mandates
local
government
planning,
adoption
and
enforcement
of
land
use
regulations
for
flood
plain
management.
The
Cobey-‐Alquist
Act
also
sets
forth
requirements
for
state
financial
assistance
for
flood
control
measures.
Mapping
of
areas
susceptible
to
dam
inundation
is
established
by
California
Government
Code
Sections
8589.5
and
65302(g).
BACKGROUND
The
desert
climate
of
the
Coachella
Valley
is
generally
characterized
by
mild
winters
and
hot,
dry
summers.
However,
the
proximity
of
mountain
ranges,
including
the
San
Jacinto
and
Santa
Rosa
Mountains,
and
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
IV-‐44
associated
climatic
zones
affect
regional
conditions.
Flooding
can
result
from
rapid
melting
of
mountain
snowpack,
as
well
as
occasional
intense
thunderstorms.
The
latter
occur
most
frequently
during
the
winter
months,
between
November
and
April,
but
may
also
happen
as
monsoon
storms
during
the
summer
and
early
fall
(July
through
September).
Storms
are
generally
of
short
duration
but
may
result
in
several
inches
of
rainfall
in
localized
areas.
Surrounding
mountains
average
over
25
inches
annually,
as
compared
with
3
inches
in
the
Valley,
including
the
La
Quinta
planning
area.
Even
when
the
Valley
does
not
receive
rain,
runoff
from
mountain
slopes
can
cause
flooding,
as
well
as
mud
and
debris
flows.
Rapid
rainfall
can
quickly
saturate
dry
soils,
impeding
percolation
and
increasing
runoff.
Hydrological
Conditions
and
Flood
Hazards
The
valley
floor
is
comprised
of
a
broad,
gently
sloping
basin
formed
by
alluvial
fans
which
have
been
created
from
the
deeply
chiseled
mountain
canyons
of
the
Santa
Rosa
Mountains,
the
Whitewater
River
floodplain,
and
sediments
of
prehistoric
lakes.
Much
of
the
development
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere
occurs
on
the
valley
floor,
including
that
portion
which
lies
along
the
base
of
the
Santa
Rosa
Mountains
in
the
western
portion
of
the
City.
Flooding
is
a
recurring,
natural
event.
Floodplains
are
meant
to
carry
excess
waters
during
flooding.
Floodplains
can
also
be
useful
for
a
variety
of
human
uses,
such
as
agriculture
and
water
supply.
However,
flooding
becomes
a
hazard
when
man-‐made
structures
encroach
into
floodplains.
Worldwide,
floods
are
among
the
most
destructive
and
costly
of
all
natural
disasters,
resulting
in
more
deaths
per
year
than
any
other
geologic
hazard.
There
are
two
primary
classifications
of
flooding
that
occur
in
the
planning
area:
flash
floods
that
occur
along
natural
or
man-‐made
channels,
and
sheet
flooding
across
the
valley
floor.
Flash
floods
are
brief
but
result
in
high
water
volumes
and
velocities.
Because
mountain
slopes
are
comprised
of
impervious
rock,
little
percolation
occurs,
and
waters
collect
and
flow
rapidly
into
channels
on
the
valley
floor.
These
flows
can
convey
large
amounts
of
debris
including
mud,
sand
and
rock.
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
IV-‐45
When
either
flood
control
channels
do
not
exist,
an
existing
channel’s
capacity
is
exceeded,
or
channels
are
impacted
by
debris
or
structures,
storm
waters
travel
across
the
valley
floor,
creating
the
condition
known
as
sheet
flow.
Buildings,
sidewalks,
parking
lots,
and
roadways
reduce
the
area
available
for
natural
infiltration
of
storm
water.
Water
that
formerly
would
have
been
absorbed
may
run
off
if
new
development
does
not
provide
effective
storm
handling
systems.
Given
that
surrounding
mountain
slopes
generally
receive
greater
levels
of
rainfall,
development
downstream
of
canyons
and
at
the
base
of
mountains
may
be
at
particular
risk.
Stream
Flow
and
Flood
Hazard
There
are
no
perennial
rivers
or
streams
in
La
Quinta.
Although
well-‐
defined
in
the
mountains,
on
the
valley
floor
most
natural
drainage
channels
disperse
into
braided,
ephemeral
streams
and
areas
of
sheet
flow.
The
Whitewater
River
is
the
main
watercourse
in
the
valley.
It
collects
a
watershed
of
more
than
1,000
square
miles,
draining
runoff
from
the
San
Bernardino,
Little
San
Bernardino,
San
Jacinto
and
Santa
Rosa
Mountains.
From
its
source
near
the
San
Gorgonio
Pass,
it
flows
southeasterly,
ultimately
ending
at
the
Salton
Sea.
Throughout
the
City,
the
Whitewater
is
conveyed
through
a
man-‐made
channel
known
as
the
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel.
Based
on
historical
records
collected
by
the
Army
Corps
of
Engineers,
multiple
large
flood
events
occurred
in
the
Whitewater
River
basin
throughout
the
1800s.
There
were
also
damaging
floods
throughout
the
20th
century,
with
more
recent
ones
occurring
in
1965,
1966,
1969,
and
1976.
The
maximum
flood
of
record
occurred
in
1965
in
the
lower
Coachella
Valley,
where
flood
flows
exceeded
10,000
cubic
feet
per
second
(cfs).
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
IV-‐46
Flooding
is
typically
defined
in
terms
of
the
“100-‐year
flood.”
The
100-‐
year
flood
is
the
level
of
flood
water
expected
to
be
equaled
or
exceeded
every
100
years,
on
average.
In
other
words,
it
has
a
one
percent
probability
of
occurring
in
a
given
year.
Seismically
Induced
Flooding
Flooding
can
occur
when
water
retention
and
storage
structures
fail
as
a
result
of
earthquakes.
Such
structures
may
include
dams,
levees,
and
above-‐ground
water
tanks.
Dam
Failure
The
California
State
Water
Code,
Division
3,
contains
safety
statutes
governing
dams.
The
California
Office
of
Emergency
Services
has
determined
that
the
City
of
La
Quinta
is
not
at
risk
from
potential
inundation
from
any
existing
dams.
Levee
Failure
The
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel,
the
Coachella
Canal
and
Lake
Cahuilla
are
protected
by
levees.
In
the
event
of
a
severe
earthquake,
there
is
potential
for
lateral
spreading
of
foundation
soils.
Lateral
spreading
is
a
condition
where
underlying
soils
move
sideways
as
a
result
of
strong
ground
shaking
(also
see
Soils
and
Geology
Element)
and
underlying
soils
becoming
liquefied
or
fractured.
Under
these
conditions,
levee
systems
could
sustain
damage
or
fail
entirely.
While
there
are
no
existing
engineering
analyses
demonstrating
the
potential
inundation
area
of
the
Coachella
Canal
or
Lake
Cahuilla,
complete
failure
of
these
levees
would
impact
development
directly
downstream.
Portions
of
the
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel
(Whitewater
River)
are
concrete-‐lined
and
buried
under
sand
for
protection.
These
levees
are
subject
to
erosion
as
well
as
damage
from
strong
ground
shaking
due
to
an
earthquake.
They
are
periodically
maintained
by
CVWD.
They
are
further
discussed
under
Flood
Control
Measures,
below.
The
portion
of
the
Channel
that
passes
through
the
City
between
Jefferson
Street
and
Miles
Avenue
deviates
from
the
natural
watercourse.
Based
on
flood
insurance
studies
conducted
by
the
Federal
Emergency
Management
Agency
(FEMA),
there
is
potential
for
a
“breakout”
along
this
reach
of
the
river
during
a
100-‐year
storm.
Such
a
breakout
could
result
in
50%
loss
of
channel
capacity
and
flooding
within
a
portion
of
the
City’s
northeast
Sphere-‐of-‐Influence,
as
well
as
in
the
cities
of
Indio
and
Coachella.
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
IV-‐47
Seiching
Ground
shaking
during
earthquakes
can
result
in
seiching,
or
water
sloshing,
in
open
bodies
of
water.
Lake
Cahuilla,
local
canals,
above-‐
ground
storage
tanks,
detention
basins,
and
even
swimming
pools
may
be
subject
to
seiching
during
earthquakes.
Seiching
may
cause
water
to
overtop
or
damage
containment
structures,
resulting
in
inundation
of
downslope
development.
Failure
of
Above-‐Ground
Storage
Tanks
Strong
ground
shaking
can
cause
structural
damage
to
above-‐ground
water
storage
tanks,
particularly
where
tanks
are
not
adequately
braced
and
baffled.
Pipes
leading
to
the
tank
may
be
sheared
off
and
water
released.
The
1992
Big
Bear
and
1994
Northridge
earthquakes
led
to
revised
design
standards
for
steel
water
tanks,
which
now
utilize
flexible
joints
at
connection
points
to
allow
for
movement
in
all
directions.
Hazards
associated
with
damage
to
water
tanks
include
inundation
of
structures
down-‐slope
and
reduction
of
potable
water
supplies
for
emergency
services,
such
as
fire
protection.
Therefore,
evaluating
and
retrofitting
tanks
to
ensure
their
structural
reliability
in
the
event
of
an
earthquake
is
crucial.
Water
supplies
in
reservoirs
should
also
be
kept
at
or
near
capacity.
The
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
(CVWD)
reports
that
there
are
ten
water
reservoirs
in
La
Quinta
with
a
total
capacity
of
44.3
million
gallons.
All
are
constructed
of
welded
steel
to
current
seismic
standards,
as
well
as
those
established
by
the
American
Water
Works
Association.
Bridge
Scour
Scour
occurs
along
roadway
and
railroad
bridges
when
erosion
occurs
and
undermines
foundation
supports
such
as
abutments
or
piers.
In
California,
this
condition
is
addressed
through
a
seismic
retrofit
program
that
includes
inspection
of
bridge
underpinnings.
Washington
Street
and
Jefferson
Street
are
the
two
main
Whitewater
River
crossings
in
the
City;
these
are
all-‐weather
crossings.
Additionally,
construction
of
the
Adams
Street
bridge
over
the
Whitewater
River
began
in
2011
and
is
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
IV-‐48
expected
to
be
completed
in
late
2013.
This
will
provide
a
third
all-‐
weather
crossing
over
the
channel.
Across
the
La
Quinta
Evacuation
Channel,
the
Eisenhower
Drive
and
Washington
Street
crossings
are
all-‐weather
flood
channel
crossings.
During
and
after
flooding,
the
City
inspects
these
crossings
for
scour
damage.
There
are
also
three
crossings
over
the
Coachella
Branch
of
the
All-‐
American
Canal,
which
is
used
for
irrigation
purposes.
These
occur
at
Avenue
50,
Avenue
52,
and
Jefferson
Street
south
of
Avenue
52.
The
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
(CVWD)
strictly
manages
flows
through
the
canal,
and
it
is
not
used
as
a
flood
control
mechanism.
These
crossings
are
expected
to
remain
passable
during
storm
events;
however,
they
should
be
inspected
periodically.
Regional
Stormwater
Management
The
Riverside
County
Flood
Control
and
Water
Conservation
District
(RCFC)
is
responsible
for
analysis
and
design
of
regional
flood
control
structures.
Regional
facilities
are
those
that
collect
runoff
from
areas
outside
the
City,
including
surrounding
mountains,
and
are
managed
by
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
(CVWD).
CVWD
is
empowered
with
broad
flood
control
management
responsibilities,
which
include
planning,
maintenance
and
construction
of
improvements
for
regional
facilities.
In
the
planning
area,
regional
facilities
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.
Local
Drainage
Management
The
City
is
responsible
for
maintenance
of
local
facilities,
which
collect
and
convey
runoff
from
local
streets
and
properties
to
regional
channels
and
basins.
The
City
has
recently
updated
its
Master
Drainage
Plan,
which
describes
existing
and
planned
local
facilities.
The
City
utilizes
it
to
manage
and
document
the
location
and
condition
of
existing
stormwater
management
facilities.
It
has
also
been
used
to
obtain
FEMA
Letters
of
Map
Revision
for
some
flood
areas.
Flood
Control
Facilities
The
following
describes
major
flood
control
facilities
in
the
planning
area.
The
locations
of
these
facilities
are
shown
on
Exhibit
IV-‐6,
FEMA
Flood
Zones
and
Flood
Control
Facilities.
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
IV-‐49
Whitewater
River/Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel
As
previously
discussed,
the
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel
is
the
principal
drainage
course
in
the
City.
Although
typically
dry,
it
may
become
inundated
during
storm
events.
The
Channel
extends
approximately
50
miles
with
an
average
cross
section
of
260
feet.
It
is
unlined
in
most
locations,
and
portions
of
it
are
protected
by
levees.
This
watercourse
generally
follows
the
recent
historical
natural
river
path,
although
as
noted
above,
it
deviates
from
this
path
through
a
portion
of
the
City.
Levees
along
the
stormwater
channel
are
FEMA-‐classified
as
“Provisionally
Accredited
Levees,”
which
indicates
they
provide
protection
from
the
100-‐year
flood.
CVWD
was
required
to
submit
documentation
demonstrating
the
protection
capabilities
of
these
levees
to
comply
with
requirements
of
Section
65.10
of
National
Flood
Insurance
Program
(NFIP)
regulations
(Title
44,
Chapter
1
of
the
Code
of
Federal
Regulations).
CVWD
met
this
requirement.
Bear
Creek
System
The
Upper
Bear
Creek
System
is
designed
to
manage
runoff
from
the
Santa
Rosa
Mountains.
The
system
is
located
along
the
southerly
and
westerly
edges
of
the
Cove
and
includes
the
Upper
Bear
Creek
Training
Dike,
Upper
Bear
Creek
Detention
Basin,
Bear
Creek,
and
Bear
Creek
Channel.
Runoff
from
a
1.7
square
mile
drainage
area
is
diverted
by
the
dike,
which
directs
it
along
Bear
Creek
to
the
detention
basin.
The
Basin
has
a
storage
capacity
of
752
acre-‐feet.
Outflows
enter
the
Bear
Creek
Channel,
an
approximately
2.5-‐mile
long
channel
with
capacity
to
convey
the
100-‐year
flood.
Smaller
canyons
also
drain
into
the
channel.
Channel
flows
continue
downstream
into
the
La
Quinta
Evacuation
Channel,
ultimately
discharging
into
the
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel.
The
City
has
applied
to
FEMA
for
accreditation
of
the
training
dike
and
is
awaiting
receipt
of
the
formal
accreditation
letter.
East
La
Quinta
System
This
system
is
located
along
the
southeastern
edge
of
the
Cove
and
is
intended
to
collect
drainage
from
hills
east
and
south
of
Calle
Bermudas.
The
system
is
comprised
of
the
East
La
Quinta
Channel
and
several
detention
basins.
Flows
are
carried
to
the
La
Quinta
Evacuation
Channel.
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
IV-‐50
La
Quinta
Evacuation
Channel
The
La
Quinta
Evacuation
Channel
extends
approximately
3.5
miles
northeasterly
from
the
Bear
Creek
Channel,
through
developed
areas
of
the
City,
to
the
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel.
It
is
primarily
intended
to
capture
and
transport
stormwater
from
various
flood
control
systems
in
the
City.
Dikes
In
addition
to
the
Bear
Creek
Training
Dike,
there
are
several
other
dikes
located
near
the
base
of
mountains
in
the
City.
These
have
been
constructed
to
protect
developed
areas
from
runoff
from
mountain
slopes,
and
include
three
dikes
constructed
by
the
Bureau
of
Reclamation:
the
Eastside
Dike,
constructed
to
protect
the
Coachella
Branch
of
the
All-‐American
Canal;
and
Dike
2
and
Dike
4,
which
total
5.2
miles
south
and
southeast
of
Lake
Cahuilla,
respectively,
and
were
built
to
protect
Lake
Cahuilla
and
lands
between
Avenue
58
and
Avenue
66.
Dike
4
is
accredited
by
FEMA;
Dike
2
is
not
yet
accredited.
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
IV-‐53
Flood
Hazard
Mapping
The
National
Flood
Insurance
Act
of
1968
and
the
Flood
Disaster
Protection
Act
of
1973
require
that
the
Federal
Emergency
Management
Agency
(FEMA)
evaluate
flood
hazards
and
provide
affordable
flood
insurance
to
residents
of
communities
where
future
floodplain
development
is
regulated.
To
determine
the
need
for
and
availability
of
federal
flood
insurance,
FEMA
has
developed
Flood
Insurance
Rate
Maps
(FIRMs)
for
many
areas
in
the
United
States.
The
Floodplain
Administrator
for
the
City
of
La
Quinta
is
the
City
Engineer.
Data
compiled
for
La
Quinta
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
are
shown
on
Exhibit
IV-‐6.
Applicable
flood
zones,
as
shown
on
this
map,
include:
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
the
map,
areas
within
the
planning
area
that
are
within
the
100-‐year
flood
plain
(Zones
A
or
AO)
include
the
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel,
the
La
Quinta
Evacuation
Channel,
Bear
Creek
Channel,
and
detention
basins.
Portions
of
the
area
north
and
south
of
the
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel,
the
entire
Cove
area,
several
areas
south
and
southeast
of
Lake
Cahuilla,
and
a
portion
of
the
City’s
eastern
Sphere
of
Influence
are
within
Zone
X.
Land
Use
Planning
as
a
Flood
Control
Strategy
One
of
the
most
effective
and
direct
means
of
controlling
flooding
and
protecting
lives
and
property
is
through
land
use
planning.
This
may
include
designing
flood
control
structures
so
that
stream
courses
are
left
in
a
naturalized
state
or
developed
as
open
space
for
parks
or
golf
courses.
Portions
of
the
planning
area
are
mapped
within
the
100-‐year
floodplain.
Others
may
be
subject
to
sheet
flow
where
natural
channels
emanating
from
mountain
streams
and
canyons
lose
definition
on
the
valley
floor.
Restricting
the
type
and
location
of
structures
near
major
drainages
can
limit
exposure
of
people,
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
IV-‐54
structures
and
other
improvements
to
flood
hazards
and
reduce
potential
losses.
Development
should
be
strictly
limited
within
100-‐
year
floodplains
to
uses
that
do
provide
for
human
habitation.
No
critical
facilities
should
be
located
within
floodplains.
Other
Flood
Control
Measures
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.
A
1987
amendment
further
required
that
states
reduce
runoff
into
waterways.
The
National
Pollutant
Discharge
Elimination
System
(NPDES)
implements
these
requirements
by
mandating
the
adoption
of
stormwater
management
plans
and
programs
to
reduce
runoff
of
pollutants
in
storm
water
systems
into
waters
of
the
United
States.
In
California,
the
NPDES
is
administered
by
the
State
Regional
Water
Quality
Control
Board,
which
issues
NPDES
permits
to
local
jurisdictions.
In
Riverside
County,
the
NPDES
is
a
joint
permit
system
among
the
Riverside
County
Flood
Control
and
Water
Conservation
District
(RCFC),
Riverside
County,
CVWD,
and
all
Riverside
County
cities,
including
La
Quinta.
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
The
City
of
La
Quinta,
Riverside
County,
and
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
have
worked
closely
together
to
proactively
plan
for
and
protect
developed
areas
from
significant
flooding.
Development
within
100-‐year
floodplains
is
limited
to
flood
control
channels,
detention
or
retention
basins,
and
golf
courses
that
dually
serve
as
retention
basins.
New
flood
control
facilities
should
be
designed
to
protect
other
environmental
resources
and
retain
watercourses
in
a
natural
state
or
for
use
as
open
space,
whenever
feasible.
Some
areas
of
the
City
are
still
subject
to
localized
flooding.
These
hazards
should
be
addressed
through
the
continued
enforcement
of
requirements
for
on-‐site
retention
facilities.
FEMA
mapping
also
shows
areas
that
are
considered
subject
to
flooding
from
storms
stronger
than
the
100-‐year
storm.
Moderate
flood
hazards
are
also
mapped
within
undeveloped
areas,
particularly
in
the
Sphere
of
Influence.
However,
in
some
portions
of
the
General
Plan
area,
some
study
areas
are
limited,
and
flood
zone
mapping
is
incomplete.
As
a
result,
there
are
some
areas
outside
of
the
mapped
flood
zones
that
are
likely
to
be
subject
to
flooding.
The
City
should
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
IV-‐55
coordinate
with
FEMA
and
other
agencies
for
more
complete
mapping
to
define
flooding
hazards.
Seismic
hazards
could
place
storage
tanks,
lakes,
detention
basins,
levees,
dikes
or
other
water
storage
or
retention
facilities
at
risk.
Future
planning
for
new
development
should
consider
the
potential
for
flooding
and
continue
to
limit
or
prohibit
structures
in
areas
subject
to
the
100-‐year
storm.
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
FH-‐1
Protection
of
the
health,
safety
and
welfare
of
the
community
from
flooding
and
hydrological
hazards.
Policy
FH-‐1.1
The
City
shall
monitor
and
update
its
2009
Master
Drainage
Plan
every
5
years,
or
as
needed,
to
reflect
changes
in
local
and
regional
drainage
and
flood
conditions.
Policy
FH-‐1.2
The
City
shall
coordinate
efforts
to
update
floodplain
mapping
in
all
areas
of
the
City,
particularly
those
where
potential
flood
impacts
are
not
yet
known.
Program
FH-‐1.2.a:
The
City
shall
coordinate
and
cooperate
with
CVWD
in
the
filing
of
FEMA
applications
to
amend
the
Flood
Insurance
Rate
Maps,
as
necessary.
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
stormwater
flows.
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
IV-‐56
Policy
FH-‐1.4
The
City
shall
coordinate
with
CVWD
regarding
the
implementation
of
measures
which
protect
bridge
crossings
from
the
scouring
and
erosive
effects
of
flooding.
Program
FH-‐1.4.a:
The
Public
Works
Department
will
work
with
CVWD
to
inspect
bridge
crossings
for
scour
damage
during
and
after
significant
flooding
events.
Program
FH-‐1.4.b:
The
City
shall
coordinate
with
the
appropriate
state
agencies
to
participate
in
the
state’s
bridge
scour
inventory
and
evaluation
program.
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.
Policy
FH-‐1.6
Major
drainage
facilities,
including
debris
basins,
retention/detention
basins,
and
flood
control
facilities
shall
provide
for
the
enhancement
of
wildlife
habitat
and
community
open
space
to
the
greatest
extent
feasible,
while
still
maintaining
their
functional
qualities.
Policy
FH-‐1.7
New
critical
facilities
shall
not
be
constructed
within
the
boundaries
of
the
100-‐year
flood
plain.
FLOODING
AND
HYDROLOGY
IV-‐57
Policy
FH-‐1.8
Development
within
drainage
areas
and
stormwater
facilities
shall
be
limited
to
recreational
uses
such
as
golf
courses,
lakes,
sports
or
play
fields,
and
similar
uses.
Policy
FH-‐1.9
The
City
shall
periodically
monitor
and
update,
as
needed,
evacuation
routes
to
ensure
safe
ingress
and
egress
for
residents
and
emergency
vehicles
in
the
Cove
and
southern
neighborhoods
in
the
event
of
a
major
flood.
Program
FH-‐1.9.a:
The
City
shall
provide
maps
and
other
information
concerning
evacuation
routes
to
residents
of
the
Cove,
Riverside
County
Fire
Department,
Sheriff’s
Department
and
other
appropriate
agencies.
RELATED
GOALS
As
described
above,
this
Element
relates
to
others
in
this
General
Plan.
The
following
Goals,
and
their
associated
policies
and
programs,
are
closely
related
to
those
of
this
Element.
GOAL
GEO-‐1:
Protection
of
the
residents’
health
and
safety,
and
of
their
property,
from
geologic
and
seismic
hazards.
GOAL
WR-‐1:
The
efficient
use
and
conservation
of
the
City’s
water
resources.
HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS
IV-‐59
HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS
PURPOSE
The
Hazardous
Materials
Element
addresses
the
potential
hazards
associated
with
the
storage,
use,
and
transport
of
hazardous
materials
in
and
through
the
City.
Public
safety
must
be
addressed
in
the
General
Plan,
in
conformance
with
California
Government
Code
65302(g).
Hazardous
materials
represent
one
of
the
issues
associated
with
public
safety.
This
Element
is
closely
related
to
the
Emergency
Services
Element.
The
City’s
first
responders
ensure
public
safety
in
the
event
of
a
hazardous
materials
spill
or
release.
This
response
includes
isolation,
evacuation
(if
warranted),
identification,
containment
and
proper
disposal
of
the
hazardous
materials,
as
well
as
proper
notification
to
other
agencies.
It
is
also
related
to
the
other
components
of
the
Environmental
Hazards
Chapter
–
the
Soils
and
Geology
Element
and
the
Flooding
and
Hydrology
Element.
Finally,
the
location
of
land
uses
which
use,
store,
or
transport
hazardous
materials
ties
this
Element
to
the
Land
Use
Element,
insofar
as
it
is
important
for
the
City
to
assure
that
sensitive
land
uses,
such
as
residences
and
schools,
are
buffered
from
exposure
to
hazardous
materials
to
the
greatest
extent
possible.
BACKGROUND
Hazardous
materials
are
those
chemicals,
oils,
and
other
substances
which
have
the
potential
to
be
toxic.
They
range
from
fertilizers,
pesticides
and
automotive
products,
to
pool
chemicals
and
chlorine
products.
If
hazardous
materials
are
improperly
stored,
used
or
transported,
they
can
be
released
into
the
air,
soil
or
water
and
cause
harm
to
the
City’s
residents,
business
people
and
visitors.
As
a
result,
hazardous
materials
are
highly
regulated,
particularly
in
commercial
and
industrial
applications.
A
number
of
regional,
State
and
federal
agencies
have
responsibility
for
managing
and
regulating
these
materials.
HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS
IV-‐60
At
the
federal
level,
the
Environmental
Protection
Agency
(EPA)
has
primary
responsibility
for
the
regulation
of
hazardous
materials.
The
California
Environmental
Protection
Agency
and
the
Department
of
Toxic
Substances
Control
are
the
primary
State
agencies
which
deal
with
hazardous
materials.
At
the
regional
level,
the
Riverside
County
Department
of
Environmental
Health
monitors
and
regulates
hazardous
materials
use
and
disposal
throughout
the
County,
including
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence.
If
contamination
of
a
water
source
occurs,
the
Regional
Water
Quality
Control
Board
has
enforcement
powers.
The
City’s
Emergency
Services
Division,
Fire
and
Police
Departments
would
be
called
upon
in
the
event
of
a
spill
or
similar
emergency
relating
to
hazardous
materials
within
City
limits
(please
see
the
Emergency
Services
Element
for
further
discussion
of
emergency
services).
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,
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.
Household
hazardous
waste
can
be
disposed
of
properly
through
Household
Hazardous
Waste
disposal
events,
or
at
a
network
of
“ABOP”
facilities
operated
by
the
County
Waste
Management
Department.
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
cities
in
the
Coachella
Valley.
The
most
common
commercial
uses
which
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,
HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS
IV-‐61
pool
cleaning
or
supply
stores,
and
automotive
supply
stores.
Commercial
and
industrial
users
are
responsible
for
meeting
the
requirements
of
the
County
Department
of
Environmental
Health.
These
requirements
include
the
proper
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
Hazardous
Materials
Team,
which
operates
throughout
the
County
and
responds
to
incidents
when
necessary.
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
As
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
build
out,
the
number
of
hazardous
materials
storage
and
use
locations
is
likely
to
increase.
Further,
the
eastern
edge
of
the
Sphere
occurs
immediately
adjacent
to
the
Jacqueline
Cochran
Regional
Airport,
and
commercially
and
industrially
designated
lands
in
that
area
may
include
businesses
which
store,
use
and
transport
airplane-‐related
hazardous
materials.
The
City’s
continued
participation
in
regional
programs
and
coordination
with
County
departments
with
responsibility
for
hazardous
materials
will
be
important
in
the
future.
The
City’s
Emergency
Services
Division
and
City
Hall
facilities
dedicated
to
emergency
management
will
require
expansion
as
population
grows,
to
assure
that
the
City
can
respond
effectively
to
emergencies
relating
to
hazardous
materials.
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
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.
HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS
IV-‐62
Program
HAZ-‐1.1.a:
Continue
to
coordinate
with
all
appropriate
agencies
to
assure
that
local,
State
and
federal
regulations
are
enforced.
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.
Program
HAZ-‐1.1.c:
The
City’s
Emergency
Services
Division
shall
maintain
a
comprehensive
inventory
of
all
hazardous
waste
sites
within
the
City,
including
underground
fuel
storage
tanks.
Policy
HAZ-‐1.2
To
the
extent
empowered,
the
City
shall
regulate
the
generation,
delivery,
use
and
storage
of
hazardous
materials.
Program
HAZ-‐1.2.a:
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.
RELATED
GOALS
As
described
above,
this
Element
relates
to
others
in
this
General
Plan.
The
following
Goals,
and
their
associated
policies
and
programs,
are
closely
related
to
those
of
this
Element.
GOAL
ES-‐1:
An
effective
and
comprehensive
response
to
all
emergency
service
needs.
GOAL
PF-‐1:
Public
facilities
and
services
that
are
available,
adequate
and
convenient
to
all
City
residents.
Chapter
V
PUBLIC
INFRASTRUCTURE
&
SERVICES
EMERGENCY
SERVICES
WATER,
SEWER
&
OTHER
UTILITIES
PUBLIC
FACILITIES
EMERGENCY
SERVICES
V-‐1
EE MM EE RR GG EE NN CC YY
SS EE RR VV II CC EE SS
PURPOSE
The
Emergency
Services
Element
addresses
multiple
components
of
the
City’s
public
safety
services,
including
police
and
fire
service,
emergency
medical
response,
and
emergency
preparedness.
Police,
fire
and
emergency
medical
response
are
essential
services
available
to
the
City’s
residents,
visitors
and
businesses
at
all
times.
Emergency
preparedness
refers
to
the
City’s
ability
to
respond
to
natural
and
man-‐made
disasters
such
as
a
major
earthquake
or
flood,
but
it
could
also
be
triggered
by
other
events,
such
as
a
hazardous
materials
incident
or
a
civil
emergency.
The
Emergency
Services
Element
establishes
goals,
policies
and
programs
to
aid
the
City
in
meeting
its
responsibilities
in
an
emergency.
Government
Code
65302(g)
describes
how
each
city
must
address,
in
its
General
Plan,
its
ability
to
respond
to
environmental
hazards.
This
Element
coordinates
with
the
Environmental
Hazards
Chapter,
particularly
the
Soils
and
Geology
Element,
the
Flooding
and
Hydrology
Element,
and
the
Hazardous
Materials
Element.
BACKGROUND
Police
Services
and
Facilities
The
City
has
contracted
for
police
services
from
the
Riverside
County
Sheriff’s
Department
since
its
incorporation.
The
Sheriff’s
Department
also
provides
police
protection
to
the
Sphere
of
Influence.
Service
is
provided
throughout
the
City
and
Sphere
on
a
24-‐hour
basis.
The
Sheriff’s
Department
operates
in
the
City
as
the
La
Quinta
Police
Department,
using
dedicated
facilities,
equipment
and
personnel.
EMERGENCY
SERVICES
V-‐2
There
are
two
Police
Department
offices
in
the
City
–
the
station
located
at
51-‐351
Avenida
Bermudas,
and
a
Business
District
Office
located
at
79-‐440
Corporate
Center
Drive.
In
addition,
the
new
station
located
in
Thermal,
is
the
Department’s
central
facility
for
this
part
of
the
Valley,
and
includes
a
jail.
The
City
contracts
annually
for
police
services.
In
2010,
the
City’s
contract
called
for
the
equivalent
of
51
sworn
officers,
and
5
community
service
officers.
Officers
assigned
to
the
City
perform
investigations,
traffic
control,
and
general
patrol
duties.
The
Special
Enforcement
Team
supplements
the
patrol
division,
and
provides
investigative
and
preventive
support
in
the
community.
The
Police
Department
also
operates
community
programs
in
the
City,
including
a
School
Resource
Officer
program
at
all
local
schools;
a
Junior
Cadet
program;
a
Crime
Stoppers
program;
a
volunteer
Citizens
on
Patrol
Program;
and
Community
Service
Officers
assigned
to
each
division
and
acting
as
Community
Program
Coordinator,
responsible
for
Neighborhood
Watch
programs
and
community
liaison.
The
City
also
relies
on
mutual
aid
agreements
with
neighboring
jurisdictions
for
additional
police
support,
when
necessary.
Fire
Service
and
Facilities
The
City
contracts
with
the
Riverside
County
Fire
Department
for
fire
protection.
The
Fire
Department
also
provides
fire
protection
for
the
Sphere
of
Influence;
however,
costs
for
fire
services
in
this
area
are
paid
for
by
the
County
of
Riverside.
The
Department
provides
staffing
for
three
paramedic
assessment
engine
companies,
each
responding
from
a
city-‐owned
fire
station
as
noted
below:
Fire
Station
#32,
located
at
78-‐111
Avenue
52,
houses
primary
and
reserve
fire
engines.
Fire
Station
#70,
located
at
54-‐001
Madison
Street,
houses
primary
and
reserve
fire
engines,
and
a
volunteer
squad
vehicle.
Fire
Station
#93,
located
at
44-‐555
Adams
Street,
houses
a
primary
and
reserve
engine.
Additional
stations
in
the
Department’s
system
are
available
for
emergency
response,
including
Station
#55,
located
on
El
Dorado
Drive
in
Indian
Wells;
Station
#88,
on
Madison
Street,
and
Station
#86
on
Jackson
Street,
in
Indio;
and
Station
#39,
which
is
located
at
the
Jacqueline
Cochran
Regional
Airport,
east
of
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence.
All
calls
are
dispatched
through
the
County’s
centralized
Riverside
County
Fire
Department
Emergency
Command
Center,
which
EMERGENCY
SERVICES
V-‐3
determines
the
responding
station(s)
or
engine
company
based
on
closest
resource
concept.
Under
this
operating
system,
the
closest
appropriate
unit(s)
is
sent
regardless
of
jurisdiction.
All
fire
stations
are
staffed
by
career
professional
firefighters.
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.
Volunteer
Reserve
firefighters
are
used
to
supplement
paid
staff
by
providing
additional
firefighters
and,
during
busy
periods,
staffing
additional
equipment.
In
2010,
average
response
time
(driving)
was
3.9
minutes
throughout
the
City.
The
City
has
an
Insurance
Service
Office
(ISO)
rating
of
4
on
a
scale
of
1
through
10
(1
being
the
highest
rating).
The
ISO
rating
scale
is
based
on
a
number
of
criteria,
including
staffing
levels,
response
distances,
training,
equipment
(pumping
capacity,
number
of
apparatus
including
ladder
companies),
and
water
supply
times,
building
code
standards
and
safety
history.
The
rating
is
periodically
reviewed.
The
City
also
relies
on
mutual
aid
agreements
with
neighboring
jurisdictions
to
provide
additional
fire
protection
services
when
necessary.
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.
Emergency
Preparedness
The
City’s
primary
tool
in
preparing
for
emergencies
is
its
adopted
Emergency
Operations
Plan
(EOP).
The
EOP
is
designed
to
guide
the
City’s
response
to
various
emergencies,
by
establishing
procedures
and
responsibilities
for
City
personnel.
It
also
identifies
resources,
both
inside
and
outside
the
City,
which
would
be
available
to
help
in
an
emergency,
and
establishes
evacuation
plans
during
an
emergency.
It
has
been
designed
to
coordinate
with
other
local
jurisdictions,
EMERGENCY
SERVICES
V-‐4
including
surrounding
cities
and
the
County
of
Riverside.
The
La
Quinta
EOP
has
been
endorsed
by
the
State
Office
of
Emergency
Services,
resulting
in
the
City’s
inclusion
in
the
statewide
emergency
response
system.
The
Emergency
Services
Division
is
responsible
for
emergency
preparedness
in
the
City.
The
Division
is
responsible
for
both
planning
and
implementation
of
emergency
response
efforts,
and
coordinates
with
other
local
jurisdictions
and
the
County
of
Riverside
in
emergency
response
planning,
training
and
disaster
exercises.
Close
coordination
with
both
the
Police
and
Fire
Departments
is
included
in
all
disaster
planning
efforts.
In
addition,
the
City
participates
in
the
California
Standardized
Emergency
Management
System
(SEMS)
program,
and
FEMA’s
National
Incident
Management
System
(NIMS),
to
assure
coordinated
response
at
the
state
and
federal
levels.
The
City
operates
an
Emergency
Operations
Center
(EOC)
in
City
Hall.
Riverside
County’s
EOCs,
located
in
Indio
and
Riverside
as
well
as
its
mobile
command
post,
could
also
provide
assistance
to
La
Quinta
in
the
event
of
an
emergency.
The
City’s
emergency
response
effort
is
supported
by
agreements
with
the
Riverside
County
Sheriff’s
Department,
Riverside
County
Fire
Department,
American
Medical
Response
and
the
American
Red
Cross.
Included
in
the
EOC’s
tools
is
the
CodeRED
emergency
notification
system,
which
allows
the
City
to
notify
residents
by
phone
of
an
imminent
threat,
such
as
the
need
to
evacuate,
a
missing
person,
a
hazardous
materials
spill
or
a
terrorist
threat.
The
City
also
relies
on
its
Community
Emergency
Response
Team
(CERT)
volunteers
to
assist
with
emergency
response
during
disasters.
CERT
is
composed
of
residents
and
business
people
who
have
completed
FEMA
CERT
training
provided
through
the
City
of
La
Quinta
Emergency
Services
Division
and
the
Coachella
Valley
Emergency
Managers
Association.
These
volunteers
are
trained
to
help
in
their
neighborhoods
when
an
emergency
occurs
and
immediate
help
may
not
be
available
from
first
responders.
The
City
also
has
volunteer
amateur
radio
operators
representing
R.A.C.E.S.
(Radio
Amateur
Civil
Emergency
Service)
and
A.R.E.S.
(Amateur
Radio
Emergency
Service).
All
volunteers
with
the
City
are
registered
as
Disaster
Service
Workers
(DSW).
EMERGENCY
SERVICES
V-‐5
In
an
emergency,
critical
facilities,
such
as
police
and
fire
stations,
hospitals,
government
buildings,
and
utility
infrastructure
will
be
an
important
link
between
the
City’s
population
and
emergency
response
teams.
The
General
Plan
Land
Use
Map
must
not
site
these
facilities
in
areas
prone
to
hazards
(such
as
flood
zones),
and
the
City
must
assure
that
they
are
constructed
under
the
most
stringent
seismic
building
codes,
to
help
ensure
that
they
survive
a
natural
disaster
and
are
available
in
an
emergency.
Finally,
the
City
has
established
emergency
evacuation
routes
for
its
neighborhoods,
to
assure
that
residents
can
leave
their
neighborhoods
safely.
In
addition,
the
City
constructs
its
infrastructure,
and
in
particular
its
bridges,
to
the
most
current
seismic
codes
to
improve
the
likelihood
that
these
structures
could
survive
a
significant
earthquake.
Not
all
the
City’s
major
arterials
and
secondary
roadways
are
currently
all-‐weather
crossings.
The
long-‐term
build
out
of
the
City
will
require
that
these
roadways
be
bridged,
particularly
at
the
Coachella
Valley
Stormwater
Channel.
Construction
of
the
Adams
Street
Bridge
began
in
2011
and
is
expected
to
be
completed
in
late
2013.
After
this
project
is
complete,
only
one
low
crossing
(along
Dune
Palms
Road)
over
the
Stormwater
Channel
will
remain.
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
As
the
City
continues
to
develop,
additional
demand
will
be
placed
on
emergency
responders.
The
City’s
ability
to
modify
its
emergency
preparedness
plans
to
meet
the
needs
of
the
City
in
the
future
is
critical
to
the
safety
of
its
residents.
At
build
out,
the
City
could
have
a
population
of
79,956,
while
the
Sphere
of
Influence
could
be
home
to
an
additional
54,396.
Police
and
fire
services
will
need
to
expand
to
meet
this
population
growth.
The
generally
accepted
standard
for
police
officers
is
one
for
every
1,000
residents.
On
this
basis,
the
City
will
require
80
police
officers,
and
the
Sphere
of
Influence
will
require
54
at
build
out.
Fire
services
in
La
Quinta
are
based
on
delivering
a
minimum
of
3
personnel
in
the
response
time
standard
of
5
minutes
or
less
90%
of
the
time.
This
requires
the
strategic
placement
of
fire
stations
to
maintain
calculated
travel
times.
Additional
facilities,
including
fire
stations,
will
be
needed
in
areas
where
growth
occurs.
Based
on
current
City
limits
and
the
Sphere,
the
Fire
Department
has
identified
the
need
for
two
additional
stations
in
the
south/eastern
section
of
the
City.
Depending
EMERGENCY
SERVICES
V-‐6
on
how
this
area
is
annexed,
it
is
anticipated
that
one
or
both
of
these
facilities
should
be
cost-‐shared
with
adjoining
jurisdictions.
An
increased
population
means
increases
in
the
number
of
residential
and
commercial
structures
which
could
be
subject
to
fire;
the
number
of
vehicles
which
could
be
involved
in
major
traffic
accidents;
and
the
number
of
homes
which
could
be
subject
to
flooding,
vandalism,
or
other
emergencies.
Additionally,
since
over
75%
of
emergency
calls
entail
an
Emergency
Medical
Service
(EMS)
response,
higher
density
development
can
tax
responding
resources.
The
City
must
continue
to
adapt
its
emergency
response
to
address
this
growth
and
plan
for
increased
services
in
an
emergency.
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
ES-‐1
An
effective
and
comprehensive
response
to
all
emergency
service
needs.
Policy
ES-‐1.1
The
City
shall
continue
to
work
with
the
Riverside
County
Fire
Department
to
accurately
forecast
future
needs
and
provide
adequate
and
timely
expansion
of
services
and
facilities
based
on
service
capabilities
and
response
times.
Program
ES-‐1.1.a:
Maintain
the
Fire
Facilities
component
of
the
City’s
Development
Impact
Fee
to
assure
that
new
development
pays
its
fair
share
of
future
fire
stations.
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-‐1.3
The
City
shall
continue
to
work
with
the
Fire
Department
to
maintain
or
improve
the
current
ISO
rating
in
order
to
reduce
insurance
premiums
for
City
residents
and
businesses.
Policy
ES-‐
1.4
The
City
shall
coordinate
with
adjacent
jurisdictions
to
consider
joint
funding
of
fire
facilities
based
upon
service
area.
EMERGENCY
SERVICES
V-‐7
Policy
ES-‐1.5
The
City
shall
continue
to
work
with
the
Riverside
County
Sheriff’s
Department
to
accurately
forecast
future
needs
and
provide
adequate
and
timely
expansion
of
services
and
facilities.
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-‐1.7
The
City
shall
coordinate
with
the
Sheriff’s
Department
to
assure
that
community-‐based
policing
and
community
programs
that
encourage
resident
participation
are
implemented
to
the
greatest
extent
possible.
Policy
ES-‐1.8
The
City
should
maintain
an
emergency
response
program
consistent
with
State
law,
and
coordinate
with
surrounding
cities,
Riverside
County
and
other
emergency
service
providers.
Program
ES-‐1.8.a:
Periodically
review
and
update
the
Emergency
Operations
Plan
to
address
the
City’s
growth
in
population
and
built
environment,
as
well
as
new
emergency
response
techniques.
Program
ES-‐1.8.b:
Coordinate
all
emergency
preparedness
and
response
plans
with
neighboring
cities,
the
County
of
Riverside,
local
health
care
providers
and
utility
purveyors,
and
the
California
Emergency
Management
Agency
(CalEMA).
Program
ES-‐1.8.c:
Continue
coordinated
training
for
City
Emergency
Response
Team
members,
Community
Emergency
Response
Team
(CERT)
volunteers,
and
related
response
agency
personnel.
Policy
ES-‐1.9
Critical
facilities,
such
as
police
and
fire
stations,
hospitals
and
clinics,
schools
and
utility
substations,
should
be
sited
away
from
identified
hazard
areas.
EMERGENCY
SERVICES
V-‐8
Program
ES-‐1.9.a:
Review
and
amend,
as
appropriate,
development
regulations
to
ensure
critical
facilities
are
not
located
in
an
area
identified
in
the
General
Plan
as
a
hazard
area.
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-‐1.10.a:
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.
Program
ES-‐1.10.b:
The
Emergency
Services
Division
will
continue
to
coordinate
city-‐wide
emergency
response
exercises
as
appropriate,
as
well
as
training
programs
for
City
staff
and
Community
Emergency
Response
Team
(CERT)
volunteers,
and
will
publicize
training
sessions
to
City
residents
and
business
owners.
RELATED
GOALS
As
described
above,
this
Element
relates
to
others
in
this
General
Plan.
The
following
Goals
and
their
associated
policies
and
programs
are
closely
related
to
those
of
this
Element.
GOAL
GEO-‐1:
Protection
of
the
general
health,
safety
and
welfare
of
the
community
and
its
property
from
geologic
and
seismic
hazards.
GOAL
FH-‐1:
Protection
of
the
general
health,
safety
and
welfare
of
the
community
and
its
property
from
flooding
and
associated
hydrological
hazards.
GOAL
HAZ-‐1:
Protection
of
the
general
health,
safety
and
welfare
of
the
community
and
its
property
from
the
potential
impacts
associated
with
the
manufacture,
use,
storage,
transport
and
disposal
of
hazardous
and
toxic
materials.
EMERGENCY
SERVICES
V-‐9
THIS
PAGE
INTENTIONALLY
LEFT
BLANK
WATER,
SEWER
&
OTHER
UTILITIES
V-‐11
WW AA TT EE RR ,,
SS EE WW EE RR
&&
OO TT HH EE RR
UU TT II LL II TT II EE SS
PURPOSE
Water,
sewer
and
other
utilities
are
essential
services
in
any
City.
All
types
of
development
depend
on
them,
and
all
are
necessary
for
the
successful
long-‐term
growth
of
the
City.
The
Water,
Sewer
and
Other
Utilities
Element
establishes
goals,
policies
and
programs
intended
to
ensure
that
these
public
and
quasi-‐public
services
are
provided
to
the
City
as
it
grows.
Without
adequate
levels
of
these
services,
the
City’s
Land
Use
Element
cannot
be
effectively
implemented,
and
build
out
of
the
General
Plan
would
be
severely
compromised,
if
not
impossible.
Conversely,
the
overly
aggressive
expansion
of
these
services
can
result
in
the
wasteful
use
of
resources,
which
is
contrary
to
the
precepts
of
the
Livable
Community
Element,
the
Energy
and
Mineral
Resources
Element,
and
the
Water
Resources
Element.
This
Element
addresses
the
availability
of
domestic
water,
sanitary
sewer,
electricity,
natural
gas,
communications
and
solid
waste
disposal.
Where
applicable,
the
Element
provides
descriptions
of
standards
for
the
provision
of
services
as
they
relate
to
population
and
land
use.
Government
Code
Section
65302
requires
that
the
City
address
natural
resources,
including
water
and
natural
gas.
California
Water
Code
also
contains
standards
and
requirements
for
domestic
water
with
which
the
City
must
comply.
BACKGROUND
Domestic
Water
The
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
(CVWD)
provides
domestic
and
irrigation
water
services
within
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
(Sphere),
although
some
private
wells
may
be
in
use
in
the
CVWD
service
area,
particularly
in
the
Sphere.
The
District’s
primary
source
of
water
is
WATER,
SEWER
&
OTHER
UTILITIES
V-‐12
groundwater,
which
it
extracts
through
a
system
of
wells
located
throughout
the
City
and
region.
In
addition
to
groundwater,
CVWD
relies
on
imported
water
brought
to
the
region
by
regional
canals,
which
is
stored
or
recharged
into
the
aquifer
at
basins
in
the
west
end
of
the
Valley
(Whitewater
River,
northwest
of
Palm
Springs);
in
the
southeastern
section
of
the
City
(Dike
4);
and
in
Martinez
Canyon,
south
and
east
of
the
City.
CVWD
also
owns
and
operates
the
water
distribution
system,
which
is
generally
located
under
existing
streets
in
the
public
right-‐of-‐way.
The
District
also
maintains
water
storage
tanks
throughout
its
service
area,
including
ten
existing
or
planned
tanks
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere,
with
capacities
ranging
from
250,000
to
10
million
gallons.
CVWD
is
responsible,
under
the
California
Water
Code,
for
analyzing
its
current
and
future
water
supply,
and
assuring
that
sufficient
supply
is
available
to
serve
land
uses
within
the
District,
through
the
preparation
of
an
Urban
Water
Management
Plan
(UWMP).
CVWD
is
required
to
periodically
update
the
Plan,
and
is
currently
undertaking
such
an
update.
Further
details
regarding
CVWD’s
supply
and
demand
for
water
can
be
found
in
the
Water
Resources
Element.
Sanitary
Sewer
CVWD
also
provides
the
City
with
sanitary
sewer
collection
and
treatment.
Most
of
the
City
and
Sphere
are
served
by
sewer,
although
some
septic
systems
are
still
in
use,
particularly
in
the
Sphere.
CVWD
has
two
wastewater
treatment
plants
serving
the
City.
Sewage
generated
north
of
Miles
Avenue,
in
the
northern
part
of
the
City,
is
conveyed
to
Water
Reclamation
Plant
7
(WRP-‐7)
located
at
Madison
Street
and
Avenue
38,
northeast
of
the
City.
The
capacity
of
WRP-‐7
is
five
million
gallons
per
day
(mgd).
For
all
land
in
the
City
and
Sphere
located
south
of
Miles
Avenue,
sewage
is
treated
at
the
Mid-‐Valley
Water
Reclamation
Plant,
located
southeast
of
the
City
and
Sphere,
which
has
a
capacity
of
9.5
million
gallons
per
day.
Tertiary
treated
water
–
water
which
is
suitable
for
irrigation
but
is
not
potable
is
available
from
WRP-‐7,
with
a
capacity
of
2.5
million
gallons
per
day
and
an
expansion
potential
to
7.5
million
gallons
per
day.
CVWD
does
not
have
tertiary
treatment
available
at
the
Mid-‐Valley
plant;
however,
plans
are
underway
to
extend
the
tertiary-‐treated
water
delivery
system
to
other
areas
in
the
valley.
As
it
becomes
available,
tertiary
treated
water
will
be
used
by
appropriate
facilities,
particularly
golf
courses.
WATER,
SEWER
&
OTHER
UTILITIES
V-‐13
CVWD
also
owns
and
operates
the
sewer
conveyance
system
anchored
by
a
system
of
trunk
lines
ranging
in
size
from
4
to
24
inches,
including
18-‐inch
force
mains
in
Washington
Street,
Jefferson
Street,
Madison
Street,
and
Avenues
50,
58
and
60.
Electric
Power
Electricity
is
provided
to
the
City
by
the
Imperial
Irrigation
District
(IID),
which
provides
power
through
a
combination
of
power
generation
and
contractual
agreements.
Electricity
is
delivered
to
IID’s
substations
throughout
the
City
at
92
or
161
kilovolts,
and
decreased
to
12
kilovolts
for
distribution
to
its
customers.
Natural
Gas
Natural
gas
is
the
primary
source
of
energy
used
in
the
City
for
space
and
water
heating,
as
well
as
cooking.
Natural
gas
is
provided
to
the
City
and
its
Sphere
by
The
Gas
Company.
The
Gas
Company
has
major
supply
lines
in
Washington
Street
and
Highway
111.
Natural
gas
service
is
limited
in
the
southern
end
of
the
City
and
its
Sphere,
particularly
south
of
Airport
Boulevard
and
east
of
Monroe
Street.
In
2010,
customers
in
the
City
consumed
an
estimated
1,025
million
cubic
feet
of
natural
gas.
Areas
of
the
La
Quinta
Cove,
and
some
older
developments
in
the
Sphere
of
Influence,
do
not
have
access
to
natural
gas
and,
instead,
contract
with
private
firms
to
purchase
propane
gas.
Communications
The
primary
land
line
telephone
provider
in
the
City
is
Verizon.
As
telephone
service
has
become
less
regulated
and
technology
has
improved,
a
number
of
communication
alternatives
have
become
available
to
the
public,
including
cellular,
internet,
fiber
optic,
and
cable-‐based
services.
The
primary
cable
TV
provider
is
Time
Warner.
As
the
City
continues
to
develop,
it
is
expected
that
a
number
of
new
technologies
will
become
available
to
assure
adequate
and
effective
communication
and
data
transfer
for
the
City’s
residents
and
businesses.
Solid
Waste
Solid
waste
disposal
is
provided
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere
by
Burrtec
Waste
and
Recycling
Services,
LLC
(Burrtec)
under
a
franchise
agreement
with
the
City.
Burrtec
collects
solid
waste
and
transports
it
to
the
Edom
Hill
Transfer
Station,
located
west
of
the
City
in
the
City
of
Cathedral
City.
From
the
Transfer
Station,
waste
is
taken
to
one
of
WATER,
SEWER
&
OTHER
UTILITIES
V-‐14
three
regional
landfills:
Lamb
Canyon,
Badlands
or
El
Sobrante.
All
three
landfills
have
capacity
remaining
for
the
long-‐term.
Burrtec
also
implements
solid
waste
recycling
efforts
for
the
City.
These
include
residential
and
commercial
collection
of
paper,
plastic,
glass
and
aluminum.
Green
waste
can
also
be
recycled.
The
City
is
currently
required
to
implement
new
and
maintain
ongoing
waste
and
recycling
programs
and
recycle
at
least
50%
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.
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
The
City’s
growth
is
dependent
on
adequate
water,
wastewater
and
utility
services.
The
continued
expansion
of
these
services
is
critical
to
the
successful
implementation
of
the
General
Plan.
The
City
also
wishes
to
wisely
use
these
resources
and
conserve
them
to
the
greatest
extent
possible.
To
that
end,
the
Livable
Community
Element
contains
specific
policies
and
programs
aimed
at
reducing
the
City’s
dependence
on
water,
electricity
and
natural
gas.
The
goals,
policies
and
programs
below
are
aimed
at
supporting
that
Element,
and
assure
the
wise
and
careful
use
of
these
limited
resources.
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
UTL-‐1
Domestic
water
facilities
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-‐1.1.a:
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.
WATER,
SEWER
&
OTHER
UTILITIES
V-‐15
Program
UTL-‐1.1.b:
Continue
to
work
with
CVWD
on
water
conservation
programs
(such
as
landscaping
conversion
and
smart
irrigation
control)
to
reduce
domestic
water
use,
which
will
result
in
the
need
for
fewer
domestic
water
facilities
and
services
to
adequately
serve
the
existing
and
long-‐term
needs
of
the
City.
Program
UTL-‐1.1.b:
Continue
to
coordinate
between
the
Fire
Department
and
CVWD
to
ensure
adequate
water
supplies
for
fire
suppression
throughout
the
City.
Policy
UTL-‐1.2
The
City
should
encourage
the
conservation
of
water.
Program
UTL-‐1.2.a:
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.
Program
UTL-‐1.2.b:
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.
GOAL
UTL-‐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.
WATER,
SEWER
&
OTHER
UTILITIES
V-‐16
Program
UTL-‐2.1.a:
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.
Policy
UTL-‐2.2
Septic
systems
for
the
treatment
of
sewage
should
be
replaced
with
sanitary
sewer
service
throughout
the
City.
Program
UTL-‐2.2.a:
Coordinate
with
the
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
and
encourage
the
elimination
of
septic
systems
where
they
occur
within
the
City.
RELATED
GOALS
This
Element
relates
to
others
in
the
General
Plan.
The
following
Goals
and
their
associated
policies
and
programs
are
closely
related
to
those
of
this
Element.
GOAL
PF-‐1:
Public
facilities
and
services
that
are
available,
adequate
and
convenient
to
all
City
residents.
GOAL
WR-‐1:
The
efficient
use
and
conservation
of
the
City’s
water
resources.
WATER,
SEWER
&
OTHER
UTILITIES
V-‐17
THIS
PAGE
INTENTIONALLY
LEFT
BLANK
PUBLIC
FACILITIES
V-‐19
PP UU BB LL II CC
FF AA CC II LL II TT II EE SS
PURPOSE
Public
facilities
include
City-‐owned
buildings,
such
as
City
Hall,
the
Senior
Center
and
the
Library
(collectively
part
of
the
Civic
Center
Campus),
as
well
as
schools
operated
by
the
Desert
Sands
Unified
School
District
or
the
Coachella
Valley
Unified
School
District.
The
Public
Facilities
Element
provides
descriptions
of
these
facilities,
and
establishes
goals,
policies
and
programs
which
will
allow
the
City
to
continue
to
provide
a
full
range
of
municipal
and
scholastic
services
to
its
residents
and
businesses.
Government
Code
Sections
65103(c)
and
65302(a)
both
address
the
need
to
include
public
facilities
in
the
General
Plan.
The
former
requires
that
all
cities
annually
review
capital
improvement
needs
for
consistency
with
the
General
Plan.
The
latter
requires
that
the
General
Plan
discuss
the
location
of
schools
and
whether
school
facilities
are
adequate.
This
Element
is
closely
related
to
the
Land
Use
Element,
insofar
as
both
municipal
and
school
facilities
should
be
identified
and
mapped
on
the
Land
Use
Map.
It
also
is
related
to
the
Parks,
Recreation
and
Trails
Element,
the
Emergency
Services
Element
and
the
Water,
Sewer
and
Other
Utilities
Element,
which
together
provide
a
complete
description
of
the
public
services
available
in
La
Quinta.
Finally,
as
municipal
services
and
facilities
contribute
significantly
to
the
City,
providing
a
full
range
of
services
to
its
business
community,
this
Element
also
is
related
to
the
Economic
Development
Element.
PUBLIC
FACILITIES
V-‐20
BACKGROUND
Municipal
Facilities
The
City
owns
and/or
operates
a
number
of
facilities
which
provide
public
services
to
the
community.
They
include:
City
Hall,
located
in
the
Civic
Center
Campus,
at
78-‐495
Calle
Tampico,
provides
a
full
range
of
municipal
services,
including
Code
Compliance,
Building
and
Safety,
Planning,
Recreation,
Public
Works
and
Economic
Development.
Also
within
the
Civic
Center
Campus
is
the
La
Quinta
Senior
Center,
which
provides
fitness
and
enrichment
classes,
excursions
and
other
services
for
residents
55
years
of
age
or
older.
The
Senior
Center
is
located
at
78-‐450
Avenida
La
Fonda,
on
the
south
side
of
the
Civic
Center
Complex.
The
La
Quinta
Library,
located
at
78-‐275
Calle
Tampico,
is
owned
by
the
City
and
operated
by
the
County
of
Riverside.
The
Library
is
currently
20,000
square
feet
in
size
and
contains
89,060
volumes.
The
County
Library
system
targets
an
un-‐adopted
standard
of
2
books
per
person.
Based
on
that
standard,
and
an
estimated
total
population
of
134,352
at
General
Plan
build
out,
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence
will
have
a
need
for
268,704
volumes
at
build
out
of
the
General
Plan.
This
may
be
accomplished,
in
part,
with
virtual
books
and
other
materials.
The
La
Quinta
Museum
is
located
at
77-‐885
Avenida
Montezuma.
It
provides
historic
and
cultural
exhibits,
as
well
as
collections
relating
to
the
history
of
the
City
and
other
subjects
of
interest.
The
facility
has
also
provided
other
community
programs.
The
City
owns
and
operates
its
corporate
yard,
which
is
located
at
78-‐
109
Avenue
52,
and
public
parking
lots
in
the
Village.
The
yard
is
used
for
the
storage
of
City
vehicles,
maintenance
equipment
and
materials.
Finally,
the
City
owns
the
SilverRock
Resort
project,
which
includes
the
Arnold
Palmer
Classic
Course
at
SilverRock
Resort,
at
the
southwest
corner
of
Jefferson
Street
and
Avenue
52.
The
public
golf
course
currently
offers
18
holes
of
play
and
is
a
host
course
for
the
Bob
Hope
Classic
golf
tournament.
SilverRock
Resort
offers
instruction,
reduced-‐
cost
play
for
residents,
and
clubhouse
facilities.
Future
plans
for
the
project
include
expansion
of
the
golf
course
to
include
36
holes
of
golf,
a
resort
hotel
and
commercial
retail
facilities
(please
also
see
the
Economic
Development
Element).
PUBLIC
FACILITIES
V-‐21
The
City
also
owns
and
operates
the
following
parks
and
recreation
facilities
throughout
the
community:
Adams
Park
Bear
Creek
Trail
Civic
Center
Campus
Cove
Oasis
Trailhead
Desert
Pride
Park
Eisenhower
Park
Fritz
Burns
Park
Fred
Wolff
Bear
Creek
Nature
Preserve
La
Quinta
Park
La
Quinta
Senior
Center
Monticello
Park
Saguaro
Park
Season’s
Park
Velasco
Park
La
Quinta
Fitness
Center
Pioneer
Park
Skate
Park
The
City
also
relies
on
joint
use
agreements
with
various
agencies
and
organizations
for
the
use
of
additional
recreation
facilities.
For
example,
the
City
has
a
joint
use
agreement
for
the
Sports
Complex
and
Colonel
Paige
Sports
Fields.
Under
this
agreement,
the
City
uses
the
fields
in
the
evenings
and
weekends
and
maintains
them.
Additionally,
City
residents
utilize
a
community
center,
baseball
field,
and
amphitheater
at
the
La
Quinta
Community
Park;
these
facilities
are
owned
and
operated
by
the
Coachella
Valley
Recreation
and
Park
District.
Lake
Cahuilla
Park,
managed
by
Riverside
County
Parks
and
Recreation,
is
also
an
important
recreational
facility
used
by
City
residents.
These
and
other
facilities
are
described
in
greater
detail
in
the
Parks,
Recreation
and
Trails
Element.
A
discussion
of
police
and
fire
services
and
facilities
is
provided
in
the
Emergency
Services
Element.
Schools
The
City
is
served
by
two
public
school
districts
which
provide
Kindergarten
through
Grade
12
education:
the
Desert
Sands
and
the
Coachella
Valley
Unified
School
Districts.
PUBLIC
FACILITIES
V-‐22
The
Desert
Sands
Unified
School
District
(DSUSD)
serves
families
located
west
of
Jefferson
Street
and
north
of
Avenue
48,
including
families
located
in
the
City’s
northern
Sphere
of
Influence.
The
District
has
a
total
of
seven
schools
in
La
Quinta,
including:
John
Adams
Elementary
School,
located
at
50-‐800
Desert
Club
Drive
Benjamin
Franklin
Elementary
School,
located
at
77-‐800
Calle
Tampico
Harry
S.
Truman
Elementary
School,
located
at
78-‐870
Avenue
50
La
Quinta
Middle
School,
located
at
78-‐900
Avenue
50
Colonel
Mitchell
Paige
Middle
School,
located
at
43-‐495
Palm
Royale
Drive
Summit
Continuation
High
School,
located
at
43-‐330
Palm
Royale
Drive
La
Quinta
High
School,
located
at
79-‐255
Blackhawk
Way
In
addition
to
its
educational
services
for
children,
the
District
provides
English
as
a
second
language
classes;
citizenship
classes;
early
childhood
education;
after
school
programs;
and
special
education
services.
The
District’s
administrative
offices
and
bus
yard
are
located
in
the
City,
at
47-‐950
Dune
Palms
Road.
Open
spaces,
including
playgrounds
and
sports
fields,
and
some
indoor
spaces
at
various
schools
are
available
for
community
use.
The
Coachella
Valley
Unified
School
District
(CVUSD)
serves
families
located
east
of
Jefferson
Street
and
south
of
Avenue
48,
including
those
families
living
in
the
City’s
eastern
Sphere
of
Influence.
The
following
four
schools
(none
of
which
are
located
within
the
City
limits)
serve
students
in
the
City
and
its
Sphere
of
Influence:
Westside
Elementary
School,
located
at
82-‐225
Airport
Boulevard,
east
of
the
City
Cahuilla
Desert
Academy,
located
at
82-‐489
Avenue
52,
east
of
the
City
Mountain
Vista
Elementary
School,
located
at
49-‐750
Hjorth
Street,
northeast
of
the
City
Coachella
Valley
High
School,
located
at
83-‐800
Airport
Boulevard,
east
of
the
City
Both
Districts
are
funded
through
a
number
of
sources,
including
a
portion
of
the
local
property
tax,
bond
issues,
Redevelopment
Agency
PUBLIC
FACILITIES
V-‐23
pass-‐through
payments,
State
funds
and
developer
fees.
The
latter
fees
were
established
by
AB2926,
effective
1986,
which
authorizes
Districts
to
charge
developers
an
impact
fee
that
is
used
for
the
construction
of
new
facilities.
The
fee
changes
periodically
and
is
calculated
on
a
per
unit
or
per
square
foot
basis,
depending
on
the
type
of
development
being
undertaken.
Build
out
of
the
City,
according
to
the
General
Plan’s
land
use
plan,
has
the
potential
to
generate
31,603
housing
units
in
the
City,
and
21,500
in
the
Sphere
of
Influence.
As
shown
in
Table
V-‐1,
these
new
households
have
the
potential
to
increase
school
enrollment
to
23,293
students
at
build
out.
As
school
facilities
in
both
Districts
are
close
to
or
over
capacity,
additional
schools
will
be
required
to
accommodate
these
students.
The
exact
number
of
new
schools
will
depend
upon
actual
build
out
levels
and
the
rate
at
which
new
development
occurs.
Table
V-‐1
Potential
Student
Generation
Grade
Level
Max.
Buildout
Units
Student
Generation
Rate
Projected
Enrollment
Elementary
(K-‐6)
Single-‐Family
46,866
0.214
10,029
Elementary
(K-‐6)
Multi-‐Family
6,236
0.1267
790
Middle
School
(7-‐8)
Single-‐Family
46,866
0.1093
5,122
Middle
School
(7-‐8)
Multi-‐
Family
6,236
0.0522
325
High
School
(9-‐12)
Single-‐Family
46,866
0.1427
6,688
High
School
(9-‐12)
Multi-‐Family
6,236
0.0543
339
Total
53,103
23,293
Student
Generation
Rates,
Desert
Sands
Unified
School
District.
Higher
Education
College
and
university
courses
are
provided
at
three
regional
institutions
located
in
the
City
of
Palm
Desert.
The
College
of
the
Desert
(COD)
is
a
Community
College
that
provides
both
Associates
degree
programs
and
adult
education.
Its
three
campuses
are
located
in
Palm
Desert,
Indio
and
Mecca.
California
State
University,
San
PUBLIC
FACILITIES
V-‐24
Bernardino
and
the
University
of
California,
Riverside,
both
offer
Bachelor’s
and
Master’s
degree
programs.
PLANNING
FOR
THE
FUTURE
The
continued
growth
of
the
City
will
require
the
expansion
of
public
facilities
to
serve
the
City’s
expanding
population.
It
is
important
that
the
City
plan
for
this
future
need
to
assure
that
City
services
are
adequate
at
all
times
to
serve
its
population,
visitors
and
businesses.
This
will
include
a
need
to
expand
City
buildings,
including
the
Senior
Center,
Museum,
and
Library,
and
to
provide
additional
operating
costs
and
staff.
Additionally,
the
City
will
need
to
complete
the
expansion
and
renovation
of
its
corporate
yard
in
order
to
meet
the
future
maintenance
needs
as
the
City
matures.
The
City’s
Capital
Improvement
Program
(CIP)
will
play
a
key
role
in
the
planning
and
construction
of
future
facilities.
By
annually
updating
the
CIP,
the
City
will
have
an
opportunity
to
consider
the
growing
demand
for
services
well
in
advance
of
need,
to
assure
timely
construction
and
expansion
of
facilities.
The
City
must
also
maintain
a
current
and
effective
Development
Impact
Fee
program,
by
which
new
development
projects
contribute
to
the
costs
of
new
and/or
expanded
infrastructure
and
facilities.
Although
the
City
has
no
direct
control
over
the
construction
and
operation
of
school
facilities,
it
is
critical
that
the
City
maintain
its
working
relationship
with
both
the
Desert
Sands
and
Coachella
Valley
Unified
School
Districts.
The
provision
of
quality
education
is
an
important
consideration
for
individuals
and
employers
when
contemplating
relocation,
and
the
City
can
help
to
influence
District
plans
in
the
future
to
assure
the
best
scholastic
opportunities.
GOALS,
POLICIES
AND
PROGRAMS
GOAL
PF-‐1
Public
facilities
and
services
that
are
available,
adequate
and
convenient
to
all
City
residents.
Policy
PF-‐1.1
The
City
shall
expand
or
modify
municipal
services
to
meet
the
needs
of
the
community.
PUBLIC
FACILITIES
V-‐25
Policy
PF-‐1.2
Periodically
evaluate
the
demand
for
municipal
services
and
facilities,
and
include
construction
and
expansion
of
these
facilities
to
assure
timely
completion.
Program
PF-‐1.2.a:
The
City
will
annually
review
municipal
facilities
as
part
of
its
Capital
Improvement
Program
planning.
Program
PF-‐1.2.b:
The
City
will
review
demand
for
services
annually,
as
part
of
its
budgetary
process.
Policy
PF-‐1.3
The
City
shall
identify
all
viable
financing
mechanisms
for
the
funding
of
construction,
maintenance
and
operation
of
municipal
facilities.
Program
PF-‐1.3.a:
The
Development
Impact
Fee
program
shall
be
monitored
regularly
to
assure
it
is
providing
current
and
effective
funding
contributions
to
the
City.
Policy
PF-‐1.4
The
design
and
construction
of
municipal
facilities
shall
comply
with
all
the
processes
and
development
standards
that
apply
to
privately
constructed
facilities.
Policy
PF-‐1.5
The
City
shall
continue
to
coordinate
with
the
County
of
Riverside
to
assure
that
library
facilities
and
services
are
expanded
as
demand
warrants.
Policy
PF-‐1.6
The
City
shall
coordinate
with
the
Desert
Sands
and
Coachella
Valley
Unified
School
Districts
and
encourage
the
Districts
to
plan
for
and
construct
new
schools
to
meet
demand.
Program
PF-‐1.6.a:
Development
proposals
will
continue
to
be
routed
to
the
appropriate
District
for
review
and
comment
early
in
the
planning
and
entitlement
process.
Program
PF-‐1.6.b:
The
City
shall
continue
to
support
the
payment
of
school
impact
fees
by
all
eligible
new
development
projects.
PUBLIC
FACILITIES
V-‐26
Program
PF-‐1.6.c:
The
City
shall
modify
the
Land
Use
Map
to
show
new
school
facilities
as
Major
Community
Facilities
as
new
schools
are
developed.
Policy
PF-‐1.7
The
City
shall
continue
to
explore
the
potential
for
the
joint
purchase
or
use
of
recreational
facilities
with
the
Desert
Sands
and
Coachella
Valley
Unified
School
Districts,
as
well
as
the
Coachella
Valley
Recreation
and
Park
District.
RELATED
GOALS
As
described
above,
this
Element
relates
to
others
in
this
General
Plan.
The
following
Goals
and
their
associated
policies
and
programs
are
closely
related
to
those
of
this
Element.
GOAL
PR-‐1:
A
comprehensive
system
of
parks
and
recreation
facilities
and
services
that
meets
the
active
and
passive
needs
of
all
residents
and
visitors.
GOAL
WR-‐1:
The
efficient
use
and
conservation
of
the
City’s
water
resources.
GOAL
CIR-‐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.
GLOSSARY
VI-‐1
VI.
GLOSSARY
OF
TERMS
AND
ACRONYMS
AB
California
Assembly
Bill
ADA
Americans
with
Disabilities
Act
ADT
Average
Daily
Traffic:
The
total
volume
of
traffic
on
a
given
road
averaged
over
a
24-‐hour
period.
Air
Basin
A
large
region
that
shares
a
common
geographical
area
and
atmospheric
interaction.
The
boundaries
of
an
air
basin
are
generally
mountains,
hills,
or
bodies
of
water.
Air
Pollution
Emissions
Discharges
into
the
atmosphere,
usually
described
in
weight
per
unit
of
time
for
a
given
pollutant.
Alluvium
Soil,
sand,
gravel,
or
similar
material
deposited
by
running
water,
sometimes
miles
from
its
source.
Alquist-‐Priolo
Special
Studies
Zone
Zones
established
under
the
California
Alquist-‐
Priolo
Earthquake
Fault
Zones
Act,
1972.
Special
Studies
define
potentially
and/or
recently
active
earthquake
faults
which
could
be
hazardous
to
structures
in
the
event
of
surface
faulting
or
fault
creep.
ANSI
American
National
Standards
Institute
AQMP
Air
Quality
Management
Plan:
A
plan
to
achieve
and
maintain
ambient
air
quality
standards
in
jurisdictions
designated
by
the
state
legislature.
Aquifer
A
geologic
formation
which
stores,
transmits
and
yields
significant
quantities
of
water
to
wells
and
springs.
ASTM
American
Society
for
Testing
and
Materials
AWWA
American
Water
Works
Association
Bikeway
Designated
facilities
classified,
and
specifically
designated,
constructed
and
intended
for
the
use
of
bicycle
travel.
GLOSSARY
VI-‐2
BLM
Bureau
of
Land
Management:
a
division
of
the
U.S.
Department
of
the
Interior
that
manages
261
million
surface
acres
and
700
million
acres
of
sub-‐surface
real
estate
throughout
the
nation.
Its
main
mission
is
to
sustain
the
health
and
productivity
of
the
public
lands.
Blowsand
An
environmental
condition
in
which
quantities
of
sand
are
blown
in
the
wind.
This
condition
may
occur
in
areas
of
loose
sand
or
sandy
loam
soils
and
strong
prevailing
winds.
Buffers
Land
uses
which
protect
public
safety
and
provide
sufficient
distance
and
barriers
between
incompatible
land
uses
by
lessening
the
effects
of
noise,
dust,
vibration,
visual
blight,
or
other
impacts
caused
by
a
particular
land
use.
CAA
(federal)
Clean
Air
Act
CCAA
California
Clean
Air
Act
CDBG
Community
Development
Block
Grant:
Federal
allocation
of
funds
to
a
jurisdiction
for
discretionary
disbursement,
generally
utilized
for
local
community
development
projects.
CDWR
California
Department
of
Water
Resources
CEQA
California
Environmental
Quality
Act:
State
legislation
adopted
in
1970
which
ensures
the
protection
of
the
environment.
This
legislation
also
required
California
governmental
agencies
at
all
levels
to
develop
standards
and
procedures
necessary
to
protect
the
environmental
quality
of
their
jurisdiction.
cf/month
Cubic
feet
per
month.
cfs
Cubic
feet
per
second
CIWMB
California
Integrated
Waste
Management
Board
CMP
Congestion
Management
Plan.
CNEL
Community
Noise
Equivalent
Level:
The
average
equivalent
A-‐weighted
sound
level
during
a
24
hour
period,
obtained
after
addition
of
five
decibels
to
sound
levels
in
the
evening
from
7
p.m.
to
10
p.m.,
and
after
addition
of
10
decibels
to
sound
levels
before
7
a.m.
and
after
10
p.m.
CNG
Compressed
natural
gas.
Cogeneration
The
process
of
generating
electricity
using
waste
heat
from
an
industrial,
commercial,
or
manufacturing
process.
GLOSSARY
VI-‐3
Conservation
The
management
of
natural
resources
to
prevent
waste,
destruction,
or
neglect.
Contiguous
Development
Development
which
is
adjacent
to
already
existing
development,
even
if
separated
by
roads,
streets,
utility
easements,
and
railroad
rights-‐of-‐way.
CPUC/PUC
California
Public
Utilities
Commission
CRS
Community
Rating
System
CVAG
Coachella
Valley
Association
of
Governments
CVWD
Coachella
Valley
Water
District
dBA
A-‐weighted
Sound
Level.
The
sound
pressure
level
in
decibels
as
measured
on
a
sound
level
meter
using
the
A-‐weighted
filter
network.
The
A-‐weighted
filter
deemphasizes
the
very
low
and
very
high
frequency
components
of
the
sound
in
a
manner
similar
to
the
response
of
the
human
ear,
and
gives
good
correlation
with
subjective
reactions
to
noise.
Design
Standards
Specific
standards
and
regulations
which
guide
the
design
of
a
project.
Earthquake
A
shaking
or
trembling
of
the
earth's
crust
that
is
volcanic
or
tectonic
in
nature.
EIR
Environmental
Impact
Report:
An
informational
document
used
in
the
decision-‐making
process
which
identifies
the
effects
of
a
proposed
project
or
activity
on
the
natural
and
man-‐made
environments.
It
must
be
prepared
in
accordance
with
the
California
Environmental
Quality
Act,
and
must
address
nine
mandatory
issues:
project
description,
environmental
setting,
adverse
environmental
effects,
short
and
long
term
use,
irreversible
environmental
changes,
growth
inducement,
alternatives
to
the
project,
and
natural
and
human
environmental
resources.
Endangered
Species
A
species
or
subspecies
of
bird,
mammal,
fish,
amphibian,
reptile
or
invertebrate
for
which
the
prospects
of
survival
and
reproduction
are
in
immediate
jeopardy
from
one
or
more
causes,
including
loss
of
habitat,
change
in
habitat,
over-‐
exploitation,
predation,
competition
or
disease.
Fault
A
fracture
in
the
earth's
crust
forming
a
boundary
between
rock
masses
that
have
shifted.
Fault
Hazard
Zone
A
designated
area
of
possible
fault
movement.
GLOSSARY
VI-‐4
FEMA
Federal
Emergency
Management
Agency
FHWA
Federal
Highway
Administration
Fire
Response
Time
The
amount
of
time
it
takes
for
the
fire
department
to
respond
to
a
first
alarm
fire.
FIRM
Flood
Insurance
Rate
Map
Floodplain
The
land
areas
that
are
subject
to
flooding
from
the
100
year
flood,
not
including
the
actual
floodway.
Floodway
The
channel
of
a
river
or
other
watercourse
and
adjacent
land
areas
necessary
to
discharge
the
waters
from
the
100
year
flood
without
increasing
the
water
surface
elevation
of
that
flood
more
than
one
foot
at
any
point.
Freeway
A
highway
upon
which
the
abutter's
right
of
access
is
controlled
and
which
provides
separated
grades
at
intersecting
streets.
General
Plan
Road
Any
road
indicated
in
the
Circulation
Element
of
the
General
Plan.
Geothermal
Resources
The
natural
heat
of
the
earth,
the
energy
in
whatever
form
below
the
surface
of
the
earth
present
in,
resulting
from,
created
by,
or
from
which
may
be
extracted
natural
heat,
and
all
minerals
in
solution
or
other
products
in
whatever
form
obtained
from
naturally
heated
fluids,
brines,
associated
gases
and
steam,
excluding
oil,
hydrocarbon
gas
or
other
hydrocarbon
substances.
Goal
An
expression
of
a
general,
ultimate
ideal
to
be
sought.
It
reflects
basic
community
values
and
establishes
the
emphasis
for
formulating
objectives,
policies
and
implementation
measures.
They
are
general,
often
timeless,
and
do
not
lend
themselves
to
measurement.
Ground
Rupture
A
break
in
the
ground's
surface
resulting
from
the
movement
of
a
fault.
Groundshaking
Zone
A
designated
area
that
can
be
expected
to
experience
a
groundshaking
intensity
during
a
maximum
probable
"design"
earthquake.
Groundwater
Subsurface
or
underground
water
resource.
GLOSSARY
VI-‐5
Hazardous
Waste
A
waste
or
combination
of
wastes,
which
because
of
its
quantity,
concentration
or
physical,
chemical
or
infectious
characteristics
poses
a
substantial
present
or
potential
hazard
to
human
health
or
environment.
High
Fire
Hazard
Areas
An
area
where,
due
to
slope,
fuel,
weather
or
other
fire-‐related
condition,
the
potential
loss
of
life
and
property
from
a
fire
necessitates
special
fire
protection
measures
and
planning
before
development
occurs.
Historic
Important,
significant,
famous
or
decisive
in
history.
kV
Kilovolt
=
1000
volts
kW/kWh
Kilowatt/Kilowatt
hour
=
1000
watts
Infill
The
building
out
or
completion
of
development
of
an
area
before
starting
development
of
adjacent
undeveloped
lands.
Infrastructure
The
physical
systems
and
services
which
support
development
and
people,
such
as
streets
and
highways,
transit
services,
airports,
water
and
sewer
systems,
etc.
LAFCO
Local
Agency
Formation
Commission:
A
County
agency
with
the
responsibility
and
authority
to
approve
or
deny
(with
or
without
modification)
all
proposals
for
the
establishment
(incorporation)
of
cities
and
special
districts,
reorganization
or
dislocation
of
them,
and/or
proposals
to
annex.
The
LAFCO
must
also
establish
a
Sphere
of
Influence
for
cities
and
special
districts.
Land
Use
Designation
The
classification
which
identifies
allowable
land
uses
for
a
project
site,
based
upon
the
availability
of
public
services
and
facilities,
the
adequacy
of
the
circulation
system
and
surrounding
area
development.
Landfill
A
system
of
trash
and
garbage
disposal
in
which
waste
is
buried
between
layers
of
earth
to
build
up
low-‐lying
land.
Ldn
Day-‐night
sound
level.
Leq
Equivalent
level,
pertaining
to
noise.
Leach
Field
That
portion
of
the
septic
tank
system
which
disperses
dissolved
waste
products
into
the
surrounding
soil.
GLOSSARY
VI-‐6
Liquefaction
A
temporary
fluid
condition
in
water-‐saturated
loose
sandy
soil
caused
by
shock,
such
as
an
earthquake.
It
can
cause
serious
soil
settlement,
slumping,
or
failure
of
structure
foundations.
LOS
Level
of
Service.
MCE
Maximum
Credible
Earthquake.
mg/L
milligrams
per
liter
MMI
Modified
Mercalli
Intensity
Scale:
A
scale
of
I
to
XII
that
measures
an
earthquake’s
impact
from
I.
“Not
felt
at
all”
to
XII.
“Virtually
total
destruction”.
Mitigation
The
lessening
or
elimination
of
the
impacts
of
an
action
or
project
through
changes
in
the
proposed
action
or
project,
or
the
undertaking
of
additional
measures.
MWD
Metropolitan
Water
District
NEPA
National
Environmental
Policy
Act:
Federal
legislation
passed
in
1969
which
insures
that
federal
actions
are
not
going
to
lessen
environmental
quality.
This
legislation
also
required
public
agencies
to
consider
the
environmental
costs
of
their
actions
and
provide
full
disclosure
of
environmental
effects
for
public
review
and
comment.
NFIP
National
Flood
Insurance
Program
Noise
Contour
A
line
on
and
passing
through
points
exposed
to
the
same
sound
level.
Contours
form
bands
of
varying
widths
centering
around
a
noise
source.
Noise
Impacted
Area
The
noise
impact
area,
in
square
statute
miles,
is
the
total
land
area
within
the
noise
impact
boundary
less
area
deemed
to
have
a
compatible
land
use.
NPDES
National
Pollutant
Discharge
Elimination
System
NPIAS
National
Plan
of
Integrated
Airport
Systems
One
Hundred
Year
Floodplain
The
land
areas
that
are
subject
to
flooding
from
a
flood
caused
by
a
storm
with
the
statistical
likelihood
of
occurring
once
in
a
hundred
year
time
span.
Open
Space
Land
or
water
which
is
essentially
unimproved.
Overdraft
The
condition
of
a
groundwater
basin
where
the
amount
of
water
withdrawn
by
pumping
exceeds
the
amount
of
water
replenishing
the
basin.
GLOSSARY
VI-‐7
Paleontology
A
science
that
deals
with
the
life
of
past
geologic
periods
and
is
based
on
the
study
of
fossil
remains
of
plants
or
animals.
Percolation
Test
Test
of
a
soil's
ability
to
absorb
and
permit
seepage
of
sewage
effluent.
Physical
Constraint
A
physical
feature
or
characteristic
of
land
which
prevents
or
limits
the
development
of
that
land.
Policy
A
statement
which
sets
forth
guidelines
for
future
action.
Prehistoric
Relating
to
times
predating
written
history.
Program
Series
of
tasks
designed
to
implement
policies
set
forth
in
the
General
Plan.
Rare
Species
A
species
or
subspecies
of
bird,
mammal,
fish,
amphibian,
reptile
or
invertebrate
that,
although
not
presently
threatened
with
extinction,
is
in
such
small
numbers
throughout
its
range
that
it
may
be
endangered
if
its
environment
worsens.
Reclamation
The
combined
process
of
land
treatment
that
minimizes
water
degradation,
air
pollution,
damage
to
aquatic
or
wildlife
habitat,
flooding,
erosion,
and
other
adverse
effects
from
surface
mining
operations
including
adverse
surface
effects
incidental
to
underground
mines,
so
that
mined
lands
are
reclaimed
to
a
usable
condition
which
is
readily
adaptable
for
alternate
land
uses
and
creates
no
danger
to
public
health
and
safety.
Retrofitting
Supplying
an
existing
building
or
facility
with
new
equipment,
parts,
or
features,
usually
in
an
effort
to
improve
the
efficiency
of
energy
use.
Right-‐of-‐way
(R/W)
The
entire
width
of
property
for
the
use
of
highways,
flood
and
drainage
works,
overhead
and
underground
utilities,
or
any
related
improvements.
Road
Alignment
The
location
of
a
road
in
relation
to
other
roads
such
that
they
form
a
connected
circulation
system.
RSA
Regional
Statistical
Area:
A
group
of
census
tracts
or
districts
used
for
economic
analysis.
SB
California
Senate
Bill
SCAG
The
Southern
California
Association
of
Governments:
An
association
of
cities
providing
regional
demographic
and
legislative
information
for
the
Southern
California
area.
GLOSSARY
VI-‐8
SWP
State
Water
Project
SCAQMD
South
Coast
Air
Quality
Management
District:
the
air
pollution
control
agency
for
all
portions
of
Los
Angeles,
Orange,
Riverside
and
San
Bernardino
Counties.
Scenic
Corridor
The
land
area
outside
of
the
highway
right-‐of-‐way
within
the
line
of
sight
which
can
be
realistically
subjected
to
protective
land
use
controls.
Seiche
An
earthquake-‐induced
wave
in
a
lake,
reservoir
or
harbor.
Seismicity
The
quality
or
state
of
being
of,
subject
to,
or
caused
by,
an
earthquake.
Septic
Tank
A
tank
in
which
the
solid
matter
of
continuously
flowing
sewage
is
disintegrated
by
bacteria.
Shall
Indicates
an
unequivocal
directive.
Should
Signifies
a
slightly
less
rigid
directive
than
"shall"
to
be
honored
in
the
absence
of
compelling
considerations.
Slump
Soil
failure
resulting
from
a
slope,
which
is
too
steep
for
the
soil's
resistance
capacity,
being
barren
and
exposed
to
water.
SOI
Sphere
of
Influence.
The
probable
ultimate
physical
boundaries
and
service
area
of
a
local
governmental
agency.
Solid
Waste
All
solid,
semisolid,
and
liquid
wastes,
including
garbage,
trash,
refuse,
paper,
rubbish,
ashes,
industrial
wastes,
demolition
and
construction
wastes,
abandoned
vehicles
and
parts
thereof,
discarded
home
and
industrial
appliances,
manure,
vegetable
or
animal
solid
and
semisolid
wastes,
and
other
discarded
solid
and
semisolid
wastes.
Specific
Plan/Master
Plan
A
tool
to
implement
the
General
Plan
which
details
land
use
and
circulation
plans
for
a
specific
site
or
area.
Sphere
of
Influence
The
probable
ultimate
physical
boundaries
and
service
area
of
a
local
governmental
agency.
Subsidence
The
gradual,
local
settling
or
sinking
of
the
earth's
surface
with
little
or
no
horizontal
motion.
Subsidence
is
usually
the
result
of
gas,
oil,
or
water
extraction,
hydrocompaction,
or
peat
oxidation,
and
not
the
result
of
a
landslide
or
slope
failure.
GLOSSARY
VI-‐9
Surface
Mining
All,
or
any
part
of,
the
process
involved
in
the
mining
of
minerals
on
mined
lands
by
removing
overburden
and
mining
directly
from
the
mineral
deposits,
open-‐pit
mining
of
minerals
naturally
exposed,
mining
by
the
auger
method,
dredging
and
quarrying,
or
surface
work
incidental
to
an
underground
mine.
SWP
State
Water
Project
TAC
Toxic
Air
Contaminants
TAZ
Traffic
Analysis
Zones
Tectonics
Of
or
pertaining
to
the
forces
involved
in,
or
the
resulting
structures
or
features
of
the
upper
part
of
the
earth's
crust.
TDM
Transportation
Demand
Management
TDS
Total
dissolved
solids.
Threatened
Species
Any
species
which
is
likely
to
become
an
endangered
species
within
the
foreseeable
future
throughout
all
or
a
significant
portion
of
its
range.
TOT
Transient
Occupancy
Taxes:
a
tax
levied
for
the
privilege
of
occupying
a
room
in
a
hotel,
motel,
inn,
resort
or
other
tourist
facility,
usually
for
a
period
not
to
exceed
30
days.
Depending
on
the
City,
TOTs
may
also
be
levied
on
camp
sites
and
RV
spaces.
Transportation
Corridor
The
area
adjacent
to
major
transportation
routes.
Trip
Generators
Person
and
vehicular
travel
generated
in
accordance
with
the
type
and
intensity
of
land
use.
TUMF
Transportation
Uniform
Mitigation
Fee:
a
multi-‐
jurisdictional
development
impact
fee
based
on
burdens
to
the
area’s
transportation
system
from
growth
and
new
development.
ULI
Urban
Land
Institute:
a
non-‐profit
education
and
research
institute
which
focuses
on
the
use
of
land
in
order
to
enhance
the
total
environment.
UPRR
Union
Pacific
Railroad
Water
Basin
The
drainage
or
catchment
area
of
a
stream
or
lake.
Watercourse
A
permanent
stream;
intermittent
stream;
river,
brook,
creek,
channel
or
ditch
for
water,
whether
natural
or
manmade.
GLOSSARY
VI-‐10
Watershed
The
total
area
above
a
given
point
on
a
watercourse
that
contributes
water
to
its
flow;
the
entire
region
drained
by
a
waterway
or
which
drains
into
a
lake
or
reservoir.
WGCEP
Working
Group
on
California
Earthquake
Probabilities
Zoning
A
legal
device
used
by
local
jurisdictions
to
control
development
density
and
insure
that
land
uses
are
properly
situated
in
relation
to
one
another.