Mureau Road Bikeway Gap Closure Project in Calabasas, California

Transcription

1 Mureau Road Bikeway Gap Closure Project in Calabasas, California INITIAL STUDY/ ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT State of California Department of Transportation and US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Prepared by: City of Calabasas Office of the Environmental Coordinator Mureau Road Calabasas, CA (818) August 2004

2 Table of Contents Mitigated Negative Declaration 1 Initial Study/Environmental Assessment Signature Page Project Description and Environmental Setting Introduction Purpose and Need Alternatives Considered Alternatives Evaluated Permits and Approvals Needed List of Technical Studies/Reports Affected Environment Environmental Consequences (Environmental Assessment) Introduction Human Environment Land Use and Zoning Farmlands and Agricultural Lands Traffic and Transportation Visual Resources/Aesthetics Cultural Resources Noise Physical Environment Hydrology and Floodplain Encroachment Water Quality and Storm Water Runoff Biological Resources Air Quality Alternatives Considered But Rejected Environmental Consequences (Initial Study) Introduction Environmental Checklist (Initial Study) Proposed Mitigation Measures Consultation and Coordination References List of Preparers and Reviewers 33

3 List of Tables Table 1. National Ambient Air Quality Standards 15 List of Figures Figure 1. Location Map 4 Figure 2. Vicinity Map 5 Figure 3. Regional Bike Lane Connectivity 6 Appendices Appendix 1: Project Plans (Alternative Bike Lane Alignment, Engineered Improvement Plans) Appendix 2: Biological Report and Wetland Delineation Appendix 3: Cultural Resources Information and APE Map Appendix 4: Air Quality Data Compiled by SCAQMD Appendix 5: Mureau Road Traffic Data Appendix 6: Noise Thresholds Established by the City of Calabasas Appendix 7: Comments Received From Reviewing Agencies

4 Pursuant to Division 13, Public Resources Code Description MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION The City of Calabasas proposes to construct a Class II bikeway/bike lane through portions of the City of Calabasas and unincorporated Los Angeles County, along Mureau Road. The project will close a gap in the existing bike lane circulation system, thus creating a continuous bike lane corridor in an area that is used heavily by bicyclists. The proposed project includes a combination of minor roadway widening and restriping necessary to create a separate, striped bike lane four to five feet in width on each side of Mureau Road. Once the project is complete, a complete bike lane network will exist between Calabasas Road and Las Virgenes Road in the City of Calabasas (See Figure 1). The construction of the bike lanes will require roadway widening within the protected zone of a number of existing oak trees along the south of Mureau Road. The proposed bike lane improvements along Mureau Road will require restriping between Calabasas Road and Round Meadow Road over the existing roadway and the bridge over-crossing. Between Round Meadow Road and Mountain Gate Drive, the physical improvements will involve up to eight feet of road widening on the south side and restriping. Determination An Initial Study/Environmental Assessment has been prepared by the City of Calabasas Environmental Coordinator, Planning Corporation, with oversight provided by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). On the basis of this study it is determined that the proposed action will not have a significant impact upon the environment for the following reasons: 1. There will be no significant impact on: unique or natural features, archaeological, historic, agricultural, scenic or timber resources, residences, schools or neighborhoods, flood plains, improvements or increases in energy consumption. 2. There will be no significant impact, after mitigation, on: air or water quality, plant or animal life and habitats, wetlands or water bodies, and traffic and circulation. 3. The proposed project will improve regional air quality by further promoting alternative forms of transportation. 4. There will be no adverse impacts on local traffic as a result of the proposed project. However, a Traffic Management Plan will be prepared to minimize the project s effect on local traffic during construction. 5. Mitigation Measures have been included as a component of the project which will reduce potentially significant effects to a level of insignificance. Robert Yalda Director of Transportation City of Calabasas Date Page 1

5 Mureau Road Bikeway Gap Closure Project in Calabasas, California INITIAL STUDY/ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT State of California Department of Transportation and US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Pursuant to: 42 U.S.C (2)(c) Ron Kosinski, Deputy District Director California Department of Transportation, District 7 Date Robert Yalda, Director Transportation City of Calabasas Date Cesar Perez Team Leader, South Region Federal Highway Administration Date Page 2

6 CHAPTER 1.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND ENVIORNMENTAL SETTING 1.1 Introduction The City of Calabasas proposes to construct a Class II bikeway/bike lane through portions of the City of Calabasas and unincorporated Los Angeles County, along Mureau Road. The project will close a gap in the existing bike lane circulation system, thus creating a continuous bike lane corridor in an area that is used heavily by bicyclists. A Mitigated Declaration was originally prepared for the proposed project in The document was circulated to all local, state and applicable federal agencies for review and comment. Substantial comments were received during the circulation period. In general, the comments received supported the proposed bike lane gap closure project. Subsequent to the adoption of the original environmental document under the California Environmental Quality Act, the City of Calabasas applied for federal funding to assist in project construction. In 2000, Cal-trans staff reviewed the adopted MND in conjunction with the project s federal grant fund application and determined that additional studies were needed to complete the environmental review process. This Initial Study/Environmental Assessment provides a discussion of project impacts based on these revised studies. The Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) form completed by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) examined the project s potential effects on the environment. This document was completed in October 2002 and identified the environmental resources within the project area and established the technical study requirements for this Initial Study/Environmental Assessment. The potential presence of sensitive native biological habitat within the project area, the potential presence of cultural resources adjacent to the proposed area of potential effect, and the potential traffic impacts associated with bike-lane construction along Mureau Road were the primary issues requiring additional environmental analysis and documentation. Therefore, the project did not qualify for a Categorical Exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). This Initial Study/Environmental Assessment summarizes the findings and conclusions contained in the supporting technical documentation related to the project s anticipated environmental effect. The proposed project includes a combination of minor roadway widening and restriping necessary to create a separate, striped bike lane four to five feet in width on each side of Mureau Road. Once the project is complete, a complete bike lane network will exist between Calabasas Road and Las Virgenes Road in the City of Calabasas (See Figures 1,2, and 3). The construction of the bike lanes will require roadway widening within the protected zone of a number of existing oak trees along the south side of Mureau Road. As a result, the project has proposed to complete the majority of the road widening using hand construction techniques so that oak tree impacts will be minimized during and subsequent to bike lane construction. However, minor pruning will likely be needed to preclude interference with vehicle and bicycle traffic movements. The proposed bike lane improvements along Mureau Road will require restriping between Calabasas Road and Round Meadow Road over existing roadway and the bridge over-crossing. Between Round Meadow Road and Mountain Gate Drive, the physical improvements will involve up to eight feet of road widening on the south side and restriping. The roadway centerline will be realigned to minimize impacts to oak trees. Construction within the protected zone, or relocation of any on-site oak trees will require an Oak Tree Permit from the County of Los Angeles and the City of Calabasas. An area approximately 50 feet long and 5 feet wide (approx. 250 square feet) along the south side of Mureau Road was found to contain minor water seepage. As a result, this area supported a few isolated obligate wetland plant species (arroyo willow). Annual maintenance activities have severely degraded this once perennial isolated wetland. As a result, this area is now dominated by non-native plant species. Road widening activities associated with the bike-lane project will remove the existing vegetation. A subsurface drainage system will be installed beneath the proposed roadbed to adequately convey the water to the north side of the roadway. Page 3

7 Figure 1 Page 4

8 Figure 2 Page 5

9 Figure 3 Page 6

10 1.2 Project Purpose and Need The City of Calabasas is proposing the bikeway gap closure project to achieve the following objectives: Provide a non-polluting alternative mode of transportation, thus helping to improve local air quality, reduce automobile travel, noise, and fuel consumption; Encourage bicycle commuter and recreational uses; Encourage bicycling by preserving and enhancing bicycle paths, lanes and routes in the City of Calabasas; Ensure that the location of bicycle facilities ensures the safety and convenience of bicycle riders; and Provide a link to existing bicycle networks throughout the City of Calabasas, including access to transit facilities, employment centers, shopping centers, and schools. Due to traffic congestion along the US 101 Freeway and other regional arterials within the Conejo and San Fernando Valley regions, the need to provide opportunities for the utilization of alternative forms of transportation is significant. The City of Calabasas feels that an interconnected bicycle route along the US 101 corridor could potentially reduce the region s dependence on automobile usage, thus ultimately reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality. 1.3 Alternatives Considered The alternatives described below represent the design options that were considered by the City of Calabasas Transportation Department during the design phases of the project. All of the alternatives described below were designed with the intent of providing an interconnected bikeway system throughout Calabasas and surrounding communities (with the exception of the no-action alternative). 1.4 Alternatives Evaluated Alternative 1:No Build/ No Action Alternative. This alternative is the continued operation of Mureau Road without the proposed bike lane. Within the project boundaries, Mureau Road varies from 2-4 lanes and conveys a substantial amount of traffic. Mureau Road contains only two vehicle travel lanes within most of the project boundary and is relatively narrow. Currently, Mureau Road does not provide safe passage for bicyclists. Alternative 2: Locally Preferred Alternative The City of Calabasas proposes to construct a Class II bikeway/bike lane through portions of the City of Calabasas and unincorporated Los Angeles County, along Mureau Road. The proposed bike lane improvements along Mureau Road will require restriping between Calabasas Road and Round Meadow Road over existing roadway and the bridge over-crossing. Between Round Meadow Road and Mountain Gate Drive, the physical improvements will involve up to eight feet of road widening on the south side and restriping. Upon completion of the project, a continuous Class II bikeway/bike lane corridor will exist in an area that is heavily used for bicycling. Please refer to Appendix 1 for a full set of project improvement plans. Page 7

11 Alternative 3 - Rejected Bike Lane Alignment Alternative 3 would include the construction of a Class II bikeway/bike lane along Calabasas Road west from the Calabasas Road/Mureau Road intersection to Las Virgenes Road. The first half of the bike lane would be installed within the existing Calabasas Road right-of-way and thus would require minimal improvements. The second portion of the trail would extend west from the western terminus of Calabasas Road for approximately 1.4 miles (7,540 feet) and would continue along an existing unimproved roadway and natural habitat. This alignment would traverse significant biological habitat areas and thus could potentially result in adverse environmental effects on biology and other natural resources. The environmental analysis for this rejected alternative is provided in Section Permits and Approvals Needed County of Los Angeles - Oak Tree Permit County of Los Angeles - Encroachment Permit for Construction in Public Right-of-Way Caltrans Encroachment Permit for Construction in Right-of-Way City of Calabasas City Council Review and Approval City of Calabasas - Permit for Construction within Public Right-of-Way 1.6 List of Technical Studies/Reports The following list of studies or environmental documents have been prepared and incorporated by reference in this environmental evaluation. Appendix 1: Project Plans Appendix 2: Updated Biological Assessment and Wetland Delineation Appendix 3: Cultural Resources Information and APE Map Appendix 4: Air Quality Data Complied by the SCAQMD Appendix 5: Mureau Road Traffic Data Appendix 6: Existing Noise Thresholds Established by the City of Calabasas Appendix 7: Comments Received by Reviewing Agencies CHAPTER 2.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT The area of potential effect associated with bike lane construction consists of an existing roadway under the jurisdiction of the County of Los Angeles (Mureau Road). Existing land uses present adjacent to project boundary include existing single-family residences, Round Meadow Elementary School, the Mesivta Jewish School, commercial office buildings, and the Calabasas City Hall. The construction of the proposed bike lane will require minor roadway widening along the south and north sides of Mureau Road to establish a pavement width suitable for construction of the proposed bike lanes. The roadway widening will take place within the eastern portions of the project boundary. The western portion of the improvements will not require physical road widening. Only pavement restriping will be required to establish a suitable bike lane. Within the portions of the project area where widening will occur, a small intermittent stream runs parallel to the north side of Mureau Road. This blue line stream will not be affected during or after completion of the proposed bike lane project. The south side of Mureau Road (within the limits of roadway widening) is characterized by moderately steep slopes. These slopes contain a significant number of native oak trees. Some of these trees will be affected by the proposed roadway widening. Page 8

12 Combinations of improved and unimproved drainage structures currently convey storm flows along the north side of Mureau Road. The south side of Mureau Road contains formal drainage structures. The south side of Mureau Road frequently receives excess overland flows during significant storm events. CHAPTER 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES (ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT) 3.1 INTRODUCTION This section of the Initial Study/Environmental Assessment constitutes the environmental and comparative analyses required under the National Environmental Policy Act guidelines for preparation of an Environmental Assessment. The analysis on the following pages was used to identify impacts on the human and physical environment resulting from implementation of the proposed project. This format identifies any potential environmental impacts of the No Action/No Build Alternative, the Locally Preferred Alternative, and the Rejected Bike Lane Alternative. A narrative discussion of impacts is provided below each category. 3.2 HUMAN ENVIRONMENT Land Use and Zoning The proposed bike-lane improvements will take place entirely within the public right-of-way. The project will not change land uses or involve additional development outside of the public right-of-way. Therefore, the project is consistent with local and regional land use plans and regulations of the jurisdictions through which the project will pass (County of Los Angeles and City of Calabasas). Analysis Alternative 1 No Build/No Action The No-Action alternative includes the continuing operation of Mureau Road without the proposed bike lane improvements. The continued operation of Mureau Road in its current state is inconsistent with local and regional vehicle circulation plans. These vehicle circulation plans recommend the incorporation of bike lanes linking commercial centers with residential land uses to facilitate the use of non-polluting forms of transportation. Alternative 2 - Locally Preferred Alternative Mureau Road intersects with Calabasas Road and conveys vehicle traffic in a north/south direction until the roadway curves to the west and intersects with Round Meadow Road. Round Meadow Elementary School occupies the northwest corner of the intersection. A private arts academy, a residential subdivision, and a small private school are the other existing land uses within the proposed improvement area. With the exception of turnouts on both the north and south sides of Mureau Road, the roadway is narrow and is adjacent to an incised intermittent drainage (on the north side) and steep hillsides (to the south). Mureau Road will continue to convey traffic using the same number of travel lanes before, during, and after completion of the proposed bike-lane improvements. However, bike-lane construction will involve improvements to the paved surface, thus affecting the surrounding natural environment to achieve the desired width of Mureau Road (including the bike lanes). The creation of bike-lanes and striping for Page 9

13 exclusive bicycle travel is expected to improve safety by increasing pavement width, improve awareness by motorists of bicycle travel on the roadway, and reduce demand on automobile travel. As a result, the proposed project is consistent with the City of Calabasas and County of Los Angeles General Plan Safety Element and the General Plan Transportation Element. Conclusion The Locally Preferred Project Alternative (Alternative 2) is consistent with existing land use plans developed by the City of Calabasas and the County of Los Angeles. No adverse effects on land use planning would result from project implementation Farmlands and Agricultural Lands The proposed bike-lane improvements will take place entirely within the public right-of-way. Therefore, construction of the bike-lane improvements will not affect farmlands and/or agricultural lands. The nearest agricultural related uses are located in the Las Virgenes Valley along Las Virgenes Road, approximately 3 miles southwest of the project area. Conclusion No effects on farmlands and agricultural lands would result from implementation of the proposed bike lane gap closure project Traffic and Transportation/Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities The Mureau Road roadway section that will support the proposed bike lane improvements runs parallel to the US 101 Freeway. As a result, Mureau Road experiences relatively low traffic volumes except during periods of extreme freeway congestion (when this roadway is used as a freeway bypass) and during the primary school drop-off and pick-up periods in the morning and afternoon. The proposed Bike Lane Gape Closure Project is part of a regional Class II bike lane project within the City of Calabasas. All portions of the City s regional bike lane facilities have been constructed, with the exception of the segment proposed as part of this project (Please Refer to Figure 3). Completion of these bike lane improvements will provide a continuous bike lane corridor for recreational and commuting purposes. Currently, both recreational cyclists and commuters utilize Mureau Road. The average vehicle load along this segment of roadway is 10,057 vehicles per day. Analysis Alternative 1 No Build/No Action The No-Action alternative includes the continuing operation of Mureau Road without the proposed bike lane improvements. This roadway section serves as the link for cyclists between the eastern and western portions of the City of Calabasas. Currently, approximately 105 bicycle enthusiasts utilize this roadway segment daily (with slightly more riders during the weekend) without a designated bike lane. The continued operation of Mureau Road without the proposed bike lane improvements will not affect vehicle traffic and circulation through this corridor. Alternative 2 - Locally Preferred Alternative The construction of bike lanes along Mureau Road will involve minor widening and restriping. The total Page 10

14 number of lanes (2) will remain throughout the area of potential effect. The provision of bike lanes and striping for separate lanes are expected to improve traffic flow and safety by increasing pavement width, improving awareness by motorists of bicycle travel on the roadway, and ensuring that separate parts of the right-of-way are used by bicycles and motor vehicles. Minor traffic related construction impacts are anticipated for a short duration within the project area because of the need to stage construction and equipment and workers within the existing Mureau Road right-of-way and the need for re-routing vehicle traffic to promote a safe environment for project construction. Mitigation measures are proposed to help ensure that no traffic related impacts occur during construction. Please refer to Section 4.3 for a description of all applicable mitigation measures. Conclusion Although temporary traffic impacts may be experienced during construction of the proposed bike lane improvements, the ultimate affect on traffic and circulation within the region will be beneficial. These improvements will promote the use of alternative forms of transportation, thereby reducing the demand on local and regional roadways Visual Resources/Aesthetics The portions of Mureau Road within the bike lane project area are considered rural in nature. While the roadway itself is not considered a Scenic Highway as designated by the State of California, the abundance of native biological habitat within the project area creates a rural aesthetic uncommon in the more urban areas of Los Angeles County. Analysis Alternative 1 No Build/No Action The No-Action alternative includes the continuing operation of Mureau Road without the proposed bike lane improvements. No effects on aesthetics and visual resources would result. Alternative 2 Locally Preferred Alternative The proposed bike lane construction project will occur entirely within existing Mureau Road right-of-way. Therefore, no adverse modification to scenic vistas or other visual resources within the City of Calabasas and unincorporated portions of Los Angeles County will result. Minor impacts to existing native habitat (including oak trees, willows and coastal sage scrub) associated within the Mureau Road widening will be experienced during construction. As a result, the overall aesthetic associated with this segment of roadway will be slightly modified. To ensure that the project creates no adverse effects on visual resources/aesthetics, mitigation measures have been included which require the replacement of any existing biological habitat removed as a component of bike lane construction. Conclusion The proposed project will have no adverse effects on visual/aesthetic resources within the surrounding natural environment. Because of the limited area proposed for modification during the proposed bike lane project, no adverse impacts on aesthetics and visual resources will result. Page 11

15 3.2.5 Cultural Resources The area of potential effect associated with project construction is located within an area of known Native American habitation dating from 7000 BC up to local historic times. A Phase I Archaeological Assessment (which included a literature search and field reconnaissance) was completed for the entire Bike Lane project area on November 16, This study surveyed all ground surface areas that could reasonably be expected to contain cultural resource remains. No cultural resource remains from any time period were discovered during this surface reconnaissance. An internal memorandum was received from the Caltrans Associate Environmental Planner, Philomene Smith, on April 5, 2000 confirming that the conclusion of insignificant impacts on archaeological resources within the project area was supportable and legally adequate under the California Environmental Quality Act and the National Environmental Policy Act. An APE was established; the project will remain within the boundaries of the APE. Appendix 3 includes all technical information addressing the potential for encountering on-site cultural or historical resources. Analysis Alternative 1 No Build/No Action The No-Action alternative includes the continuing operation of Mureau Road without the proposed bike lane improvements. No effects on cultural resources would result. Alternative 2 Locally Preferred Alternative In an attempt to obtain more specific archaeological data related to the proposed Mureau Road bike lane project area, a more recent Cultural Resources Assessment prepared for the Mesivta School of Greater Los Angeles Project was reviewed (July, 2002). The Mesivta School property is directly west of the proposed area of potential effect. Thus, the search boundary associated with this more recent cultural resources assessment includes the proposed bike-lane improvement areas. Based on the updated records search including all properties within a 0.25-mile radius, 10 cultural resource reports have been prepared. No sites containing cultural resources were identified in the immediate project area. In addition, there are no properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the California Historic Resources Index (HRI), the California State Historical Landmarks, or the California Points of Historical Interest. Even though no impacts on cultural resources are anticipated, standard mitigation measures are proposed as part of project construction. A site-specific cultural resources assessment was prepared for the bike-lane project in 1996 as part of the original environmental analysis completed pursuant to CEQA. This report was reviewed by Philomene Smith, Associated Environmental Planner, Archaeology Office of Environmental Planning. In a letter dated April 5, 2000, Ms. Smith confirmed the adequacy of this archaeology study and determined that the project will remain within the established Area of Potential Effect (APE). The project boundaries have not changed since this letter was written. Under NEAP/CEQA, project effects on cultural resources are considered less than adverse with the incorporation of standard mitigation measures. Conclusion Based on documented cultural resources assessments, the Locally Preferred Alternative will not impact any cultural or historical resources. Page 12

16 3.2.6 Noise Federal guidelines require that noise abatement must be considered if there is a substantial noise increase, or if predicted levels approach or exceed the applicable Noise Abatement Criteria (NAC). Because the portion of Mureau Road within the project improvement area does not convey significant volumes of traffic during normal circumstances, is topographically shielded from the US 101 Freeway and the proposed project is not a noise generating use, a site specific noise study was not completed. However, existing noise data included in the City s Certified General Plan EIR and a recently prepared noise impact study completed for the Mesivta School Project (located directly north of the project area) were reviewed to determine if existing noise levels along Mureau exceed Federal and/or State standards. Based on noise prediction modeling, noise levels along the portions of Mureau proposed to include the new bike lanes range from 57 to 58 dba at 100 from the roadway centerline. These noise levels are below the 65 dba threshold established by the City of Calabasas General Plan Noise Element. Existing noise levels are considered less than adverse. Moreover, the adjacent school and residential uses do not generate substantial levels of noise; therefore, no adverse noise impacts are anticipated. Alternative 1 No Build/No Action The No-Action alternative includes the continuing operation of Mureau Road without the proposed bike lane improvements. This will have no impact on existing noise levels. Alternative 2 Locally Preferred Alternative Construction of the locally preferred bike lane alternative will not substantially increase noise levels along Mureau Road. The construction of the bike lane project will involve the use of standard road construction equipment for the duration of the project. Due to the small numbers of equipment necessary to complete this minor road widening, construction related noise effects are considered less than adverse after the incorporation of standard mitigation measures. Please refer to Section 4.3 of this document for a description of all proposed mitigation measures. Appendix 6 includes the City of Calabasas noise criteria and relevant technical information. Conclusion The Locally Preferred Alternative will affect existing noise levels. In contrast, further use of bicycle transportation will likely reduce noise levels over the long-term. 3.3 PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT Hydrology and Floodplain Encroachment The relevant Flood Insurance Rate Maps prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency were reviewed to determine whether the proposed bike lane gap closure project is within an identified flood hazard zone. Based on a review of FEMA flood map information, the project area is not within a designated flood hazard zone Water Quality and Storm Water Run-Off The proposed bike lane gap closure construction project will result in a small increase in areas covered by impervious surfaces. These increases in non-pervious surface area will likely incrementally increase overland flow volumes during storm events, particularly in areas previously covered by vegetation and native soil. Page 13

17 Analysis Alternative 1 No Build/No Action The No-Action alternative includes the continuing operation of Mureau Road without the proposed bike lane improvements. No effects on water quality would result. Alternative 2 Locally Preferred Alternative During and after project construction, the total change from pervious to non-pervious surfaces will be small (approximately 8,000 square feet). Therefore, substantial changes in total runoff volumes are not anticipated. Water quality effects were not considered adverse, although minor water quality impacts could result if construction commences during the winter months. Standard water quality protection measures have been included as mitigation to ensure the project will have no adverse effects on water quality. Conclusion The Locally Preferred Alternative will affect local or regional water quality Biological Resources On February 3, 1999, President Clinton signed Executive Order 1311 requiring federal agencies to combat the introduction or spread of invasive species in the United States. The order defines invasive species as any species, including its seeds, eggs, spores, or other biological material capable of propagating that species, that is not native to that ecosystem whose introduction does or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health. Executive Order 11990, Protection of Wetlands, requires federal agencies to take action to minimize the loss of wetlands. The NEPA compliance process requires federal agencies to consider direct and indirect impacts to wetlands, which may result from federally funded actions. Thus, the following analysis is provided to ensure that the proposed project and the alternatives will not impact wetlands and/or waters under the jurisdiction of the Army Corps of Engineers. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) requires any federal agency that funds, authorizes or carries out an action to ensure that their action is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered or threatened species (including plant species) or result in the destruction or adverse modification of designated critical habitats. In accordance with Section 7 and Section 10 of the (ESA), the project area was evaluated for the potential occurrences of federally threatened and endangered species. Alternative 1 No Build/No Action The No-Action alternative includes the continuing operation of Mureau Road without the proposed bike lane improvements. No effects on biological resources would result. Alternative 2 Locally Preferred Alternative The proposed bike lane gap closure project is located in an area inhabited by non-native and limited quantities of native biological habitat, including oak trees, coastal sage scrub, willows and native grasses. Non-native species identified within the project area include ditch beard grass, bull thistle, Bermuda grass, ox tongue, and rabbit s foot grass. Project construction will include the removal of existing nonnative species within the project area. Appropriate precautions will be taken (such as the cleaning of construction equipment as necessary) to inhibit the spread of invasive species. Post construction mitigation activities will include the re-planting of native grasses, shrubs and trees. Page 14

18 To accurately assess biological habitat values within the project area, a Biological Assessment and Wetland Delineation was completed for the proposed bike lane project in September This report concluded that the proposed project would not adversely affect native biological habitat identified within the project area. Moreover, the State (California Department of Fish and Game) and Federal (Army Corps of Engineers) Resource Agencies also confirmed that the project would not adversely affect wetland resources. In fact, letters of non-jurisdiction have been issued by the Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of Fish and Game. These letters are included in Appendix 2. Plant and Animal screening surveys were completed to determine whether the project area supported endangered species protected under the Federal Endangered Species Act or the California Endangered Species Act. No endangered, threatened or special status plant or animal species were identified within the project limits. Therefore, no permits or consultations under Section 7 or Section 10 of the Endangered Species Act will be required. Conclusion The Locally Preferred Alternative will affect local or regional biological resources Air Quality The federal and state governments have been empowered by the federal and state Clean Air Acts to regulate the emission of airborne pollutants and have established ambient air quality standards for the protection of public health. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) is the federal agency designated to administer air quality regulation, while the California Air Resources Board (CARB) is the state equivalent in the California Environmental Protection Agency. Local control and participation in air quality management is provided by the CARB through the participation of county-level Air Pollution Control Districts (APCDs). The CARB has established state air quality standards and is responsible for control of mobile emission sources, while the local APCDs are responsible for enforcing standards and regulating stationary sources. The CARB has established 14 air basin management zones statewide. Calabasas is located in the South Coast Air Basin, which is under the jurisdiction of the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD). Federal and state standards have been established for ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, particulates less than 10 microns in diameter, and lead. California has also set standards for sulfates, hydrogen sulfide, vinyl chloride, and visibility reducing particles. They are listed below in Table 1. Table 1. National Ambient Air Quality Standards POLLUTANT STANDARD VALUE* STANDARD TYPE Carbon Monoxide (CO) 8-hour average 1-hour average 9 ppm (10 mg/m 3 ) 35 ppm (40 mg/m 3 ) Primary Primary Nitrogen Dioxide (NO 2 ) Annual Arithmetic Mean ppm (100 ug/m 3 ) Primary and Secondary Ozone (O 3 ) 1-hour average 8-hour average 0.12 ppm (235 ug/m 3 ) 0.08 ppm ( 157 ug/m 3 ) Primary and Secondary Primary and Secondary Lead (Pb) Quarterly Average 1.5 ug/m 3 Primary and Secondary Particulate (PM10) Annual Arithmetic Mean 24-hour Average Particulate (PM 2.5) Annual Arithmetic Mean 24-hour Average 50 ug/m 3 Primary and Secondary 150 ug/m 3 Primary and Secondary 15 ug/m 3 Primary and Secondary 65 ug/m 3 Primary and Secondary Page 15

19 Sulfur Dioxide (SO 2 ) Annual Arithmetic Mean 24-hour Average 3-hour Average 0.03 ppm (80 ug/m 3 ) 0.14 ppm (365 ug/m 3 ) 0.50 ppm (1300 ug/m 3 ) Primary Primary Secondary Federal clean air laws require areas with unhealthy levels of ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and inhalable particulate matter to develop plans known as State Implementation Plans (SIPs), describing how they will attain national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS). The 1990 amendments to the Federal Clean Air Act set new deadlines for attainment based on the severity of the pollution problem. Many of California SIPs rely on the same set of core strategies, including emission standards for car and heavy trucks, fuel regulations and limits on emissions from consumer products. The California Air Resources Board is the lead agency for preparing and updating the SIP. The proposed bike lane project along Mureau Road is consistent with the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) prepared by the Southern California Association of Governments. Furthermore, the project is in conformance with Title 40 Section of the Code of Federal Regulations, which further references the project s conformity with Federal Implementation Plans of Transportation. Overall, air quality impacts associated with the proposed bike lane project should be considered beneficial because it encourages the utilization of non-polluting forms of transportation. However, the project is located in a designated non-attainment area for ozone emissions and PM-10. Therefore, proper mitigation measures have been developed to reduce ozone precursor emissions associated with construction vehicle operations and PM-10 concentrations associated with site modification. Alternative 1 No Build/No Action The No Build/No Action alternative includes the continuing operation of Mureau Road without the proposed bike lane improvements. The project would cause no adverse impacts on air quality. Alternative 2 Locally Preferred Alternative The proposed bike-lane construction program will not result in increased traffic volumes and will not facilitate the construction of commercial or residential development (all of which are considered potential sources of air pollutants). In contrast, the proposed project will incrementally reduce the current demands on automobile travel, which will ultimately reduce total mobile air emission concentrations. Minor quantities of pollutant emissions can be expected from the operation of construction equipment and asphalt paving equipment. However, the expected emission quantities associated with this construction program are not substantial. The project will incorporate proper construction related mitigation measures developed by AQMD to effectively reduce ozone precursor emissions associated with construction vehicle operations an PM-10 concentrations associated with site modification. Cumulative impacts on local and regional air quality should be considered beneficial because the project will ultimately promote the use of non-polluting forms of transportation. Conclusion The Locally Preferred Alternative will affect local or regional air quality. Page 16

20 3.4 Alternative Considered But Rejected Alternative 3 - Rejected Bike Lane Alignment Alternative 3 would include the construction of a Class II bikeway/bike lane along Calabasas Road west from the Calabasas Road/Mureau Road intersection to Las Virgenes Road. The first half of the bike lane would be installed within the existing Calabasas Road right-of-way and thus would require minimal improvements. The second portion of the trail would extend west from the western terminus of Calabasas Road for approximately 1.4 miles (7,540 feet) and would continue along an existing unimproved roadway and natural habitat. This alignment would traverse significant biological habitat areas and thus could potentially result in adverse environmental effects on biology and other natural resources. The following environmental analysis documents the potential of this alternative to impact the natural environment. Land Use and Planning The alternative bike lane alignment would be constructed along the north and south sides of Calabasas Road west of the Mureau Road/Calabasas Road Intersection. The bike lane would continue west along this existing road alignment for approximately 2000 feet. To establish an interconnected bike lane system linking the western and eastern portions of Calabasas, this alternative alignment would need to be extended for approximately 1.4 miles (to Las Virgenes Road). This extension would require construction within natural habitat areas (including oak woodlands, coastal sage scrub, and riparian woodlands) currently managed by the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy as permanent open space. As a result, impacts to natural habitats could be substantial. To determine whether the alternative alignment would be consistent with the City s General Plan, a preliminary consistency review analysis was completed. Field review of existing conditions determined that the alternative project area would be located within the City s Preservation land management class. This designation applies to areas whose environmental values are such that any alternation of the natural landscape would create adverse environmental impacts. This land management class is limited to environmental education, research, and enhancement programs. Therefore, the alternative bike lane alignment is not consistent with City s General Plan. Traffic and Transportation/Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities To establish an interconnected bike lane system linking the western and eastern portions of Calabasas, this alternative alignment would need to be extended for approximately 1.4 miles (to Las Virgenes Road). Effects on vehicle traffic and circulation would be minimal due to the very low number of total vehicle trips conveyed by this portion of Calabasas Road. The limited number of commercial uses located along this portion of Calabasas Road and its terminus approximately 2000 feet west of the Calabasas Road/Mureau Road intersection creates minimal vehicle traffic during all times of the day. No adverse effects on vehicle traffic would be created by construction of this alternative bike lane alignment. Visual Resources/Aesthetics The alternative bike lane alignment would not result in adverse effects on aesthetic and visual resources where bike lane construction would occur within existing Calabasas Road right-of-way. However, the extension of this alternative bike lane alignment west to Las Virgenes Road would traverse natural open space and hillside areas that would require substantial grading and removal of native biological habitat. Visual and aesthetic effects associated with construction of this alternative bike lane alignment would not be adverse, but would exceed the impacts associated with the locally preferred alternative. Cultural Resources Cultural resource studies completed for other proposed developments adjacent to the alternative bike lane alignment have identified prehistoric archaeological deposits. Specifically, CA-LAN-2095, CA-LAN- 129, CA-LAN-420 and LAN-669 were identified within a 0.25-mile radius of the alternative bike lane Page 17

21 alignment. Therefore, the implementation of the bike lane alignment described in Alternative 3 is not recommended because of its potential impact on cultural resources. Air Quality The alternative bike-lane alignment will not contribute to increased traffic volumes and will not facilitate the construction of commercial or residential development (all of which are considered potential sources of air pollutant emissions). The emission of air pollutant concentrations can be expected during the operation of construction equipment and asphalt equipment operation. These emission concentrations would likely be increased if this alternative alignment were implemented. This would be attributable to increases in the number and type of construction equipment required to build the alternative bike lane alignment through a much more topographically challenged environment. No adverse effect on local and regional would result. Biological Resources Construction of this alternative would require removal and/or placement of fill material in riparian habitats under state and federal resource agency jurisdiction. Total impacts to wetland resources are estimated at 0.20 acres. Although no endangered species have been identified within this alternative project area, impacts to nesting birds and other aquatic species would result if this alternative were constructed. Overall, impacts to biological resources are not considered adverse. However, this alternative would result in greater impacts to biological resources when compared to the locally preferred alternative. Water Quality This alternative will not result in potentially adverse on-site erosion or sedimentation except possibly during the brief period of time between completion of finish grading and installation of hardscape and/or permeable pavement materials. Based on available information, it is predicted that the implementation of this alternative bike lane alignment will not modify the hydraulics of the immediate area. Silt discharge is not anticipated to occur except during the initial grading phase and the impacts of this discharge can be offset by using Best Management Practices and complying with standard National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) urban runoff mitigation planning. As long as onsite drainage is appropriately captured, treated and disposed of pursuant to NPDES requirements, this alternative alignment will not impact stream gradients or downstream areas. However, this alternative would result in greater impacts to water quality when compared to the locally preferred alternative. 4.1 Introduction CHAPTER 4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES (INITIAL STUDY) This section, in conjunction with Section 3.0, constitutes the scientific and analytic basis for the comparison of effects presented in this Initial Study/Environmental Assessment. The Initial Study Checklist on the following pages was used to identify physical and social factors that might be affected by the proposed project. To determine the environmental impacts of this project, a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Environmental Significance Checklist was used. The checklist provides a format for identifying likely impacts, and assists the project evaluators in focusing on relevant issues of the project. A narrative discussion of impacts is provided below each checklist category. Page 18

22 4.2 Environmental Checklist: Issues and Supporting Information 1. LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the project: a) Physically divide an established community? b) Conflict with an applicable land use plan, policy or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural communities conservation plan? d) Result in direct or indirect population related growth inducement impacts (significantly expand employment opportunities, remove policy impediments to growth, or contribute to potential extensions of growth inducing infrastructure)? Potentially Less than With Mitigation Less Than No The proposed project involves a short period of construction along an existing roadway for striping and minor widening. The project will not effect or significantly disrupt the operation of adjacent land uses. The project will not significantly conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plans or natural communities plan. No direct and indirect growth inducement impacts will result. No potential extensions or growth-inducing infrastructure will result. Page 19

23 Issues and Supporting Information 2. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantially adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U. S. Wildlife Service? Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? c) Interfere substantially with the movement of any resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? d) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? e) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Conservation Community Plan, other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? f) Result in damage to, loss of, or removal of native oak trees or other locally identified specimen trees of significance? Potentially Less than With Mitigation Less Than No The project will eliminate a very small artificially fed depression containing a small number of obligate and facultative wetland plants. No significant animal species associated with wetland habitats were identified within the area of potential effect. Although the Corps of Engineers and the Department of Fish and Game have declined to take jurisdiction over the depression, the City will replace all on-site wetland plant species in the adjacent intermittent drainage (north or Mureau Road) to prohibit any impacts to biological resources. Correspondence from the Department of Fish and Game and Army Corps of Engineers is included in Appendix 2 of this IS/EA. These memos confirm that the area of potential effect does not include wetland areas or biological habitat under Department of Fish and Game and/or Army Corps of Engineer jurisdiction. All proposed mitigation measures are described in Section 4.3 of this document. Please refer to the Biological Assessment prepared for the proposed project for further discussion of this issue (included in Appendix 2). Minor road widening will not adversely impact wildlife movement within and through the area. The project will result in roadway widening in an area that has a number of oak trees directly adjacent to the roadway. An Oak Tree Study for the project was conducted by a qualified arborist. The report determined that a minimal number of trees would need to be removed or relocated as a result of the project. In the event that oak trees will need to be relocated, appropriate mitigation measures have been included in the Mitigated Negative Declaration portion of this document. The City s Oak Tree Consultant determined that as long as all proposed mitigation measures are implemented during project construction, less than significant impacts would result. Page 20